Genie Speaks

Bayern, Bhutia and Indian Football

2012-01-10T09:59:00.000-08:00

I remember it was back in December that I had heard about Bayern Munich coming to India for a friendly. And somehow completely lost track of it like other Hindu readers. And was a little shocked to read that the match was today. Holy cow, would I get the tickets now. Ephemeral sadness, only to realize that this was India, where Cricket is the religion.

But the scenes at the Nehru Stadium scared the hell out of me. The last time I saw these many people with Indian flags was the agitation for Lokpal. The queue was so long that for a moment I thought I stand no chance. But then this group of people, standing just next to me, had an extra ticket and I pounced on the opportunity. That was good luck and those were pretty good seats as well. Thanks stranger.

Even from outside the stadium, I could feel the electric atmosphere being generated by the rare Indian football fans. And when I got inside, to see the 65,000 capacity Nehru stadium almost full, was a nice surprise. But probably the Indian sports administration did not see this coming at all. All the seats on the upper tiers were covered with a thick layer of dust. Looks like post-commonwealth games, no one gives a damn. It was really pissing to see the wonderful stadium in this disgusting condition. But the fans seemed too excited at the prospect of witnessing mesmerizing Robben and Ribery,

The game started. And I bet everyone was aware of the vast difference in the levels of both the teams. And we were just happy cheering the moment Indian team got the ball or we went into their half etc. To be frank, these were very rare moments. At least in the first half. They scored 4 in the first half mostly from open play and the one from Schweinsteiger was mind-blasting. But kinda got the ball in the second half and created a couple of chances which was nice. And the moment when Bhutia was called off, every one in the stadium stood up and bowed to the man who is the face of Indian football. Respect. It felt kinda nice not to let them score in the second half. Something of a achievement we can say. Moreover, defensively we did pretty well restricting a world class team to just four. And our goal keeper surely deserves an applause.

Overall, a step ahead for Indian football I would say. More clubs need to be contacted and invited to play in India. The football fans seems to be multiplying like anything. It was great to see a near houseful football match when even cricket matches these days are unable to attract crowds. Big names like Bayern are surely a crowd puller and next in line should be none other than the most followed club in India. Manchester United. The only way to catapult Indian football to higher levels is to use such established brands to sensitize the Indian crowd.

P.S. The only thing bothering me was the empty seat next to me.

Inception and UPA II

2012-01-02T03:28:00.000-08:00

Somewhere in the dark corners of the capital, a cabinet meeting was scheduled off the record with media totally unaware of Government's secret project.All the cabinet ministers were dressed up in black and their faces covered with their hoods, except that of the PM, because you know... The agenda was two-fold. How to deal with Anna and Mayawati ?

Suddenly the discomforting silence was broken by the PM.'I have an idea. On my recent tour to America, I met Nolan who taught me something about inception. We can use this rare skill to plant ideas in our rival's mind that would ultimately benefit us.'

KS : I have heard of that. But what if this idea is not actually yours and has been planted by them in your mind. And how do we know that this is not a dream.

PM : Even I had this doubt when I became the PM for the first time. But Madam told me there was a reason why I was chosen. Our kind, have different type of brain. Something much more complex and cannot be incepted by the opposition.

KS: Oh, Nice! What is the plan then?

PM : We will plant the idea that Lokpal can be too dangerous in Anna's brain and to break up Uttar Pradesh in Mayawati's brain!

All cabinet minister(in chorus) : Singh is King !!
PM raises his hand in response to the applause.

KS: But I am not sure if Mayawati has a brain.

PM : I know. Odds are against us but we don't have a choice.Ok. PC, you deal with Anna and KS you go to Maya.
***************************************************************************
PC goes to Anna's fast venue where he is asleep. He enters his dream disguised as Swami Agnivesh.

AH : What do you seek SA?

SA: I seek a path to fight the corrupt.

AH : I offer you the path of ombudsman.

SA: He will not become a hero, you also know it deep down, don't you?

AH : Yes, but he's the hero India deserves, not the one it needs right now. So we'll flaunt him because he can take it. Because he's not our hero. He's a silent guardian, a watchful protector. A dark knight.

SA : We need a hero with a face and not some vigilante.

AH: What do you mean ?

SA : You are making him more than just a man. You are devoting him to an ideal. And if they can't stop you, it will become something else entirely. Lokpal, Mr. Hazare.

AH : Corruption is killing people SA, what would you have me do?

SA: Endure. Take it back. They will hate you for it. But you have already lived your life. You can take it. You can be an outcast.Only you can make this choice, the right choice.

******************************************************************************
KS goes to Mayawati's place. He tries to enter her dream as her party promoter but finds out soon that dream levels are not possible and the only possibility is the limbo. He finds her there siting alone and contemplating of forming a party to fight election.

M : I think there are enough dalits like me who can ensure enough votes.

PP : Right, but they seem to be restricted to a certain part of the state. Only if others weren't in this state.

M : People need dramatic examples to shake them out of apathy and I can't do that as Mayawati, as a woman. I'm flesh and blood I can be ignored. I can be destroyed but as a symbol, as a symbol I can be incorruptible, I can be everlasting. I need a symbol.

PP: What kind of symbol?

M: Some thing really big and terrifying.

PP: We can use your face.

M: No. Not an identity, we need a symbol.... Elephant !

PP : But won't people pity more if we chose a symbol like ...I don't know... a pig.

M: It's not what we are beneath; but it's what we do that defines us.

PP: Inspiring. But we need to break the state, so that we isolate our vote banks.

M: Yes, someday , we will.

************************************************************************

In days to come, Anna takes back his fast and Mayawati decides to break the state four ways. The cabinet rejoices the success. PM only smiles though. He still is not convinced that all this is reality and he actually became a PM. He throws his totem on the table waiting for it to stop. But the totem shows no signs of stopping. He look at Madam. She smiles.

Costly lies

2011-12-31T03:42:00.000-08:00

Why do we lie?

Sometimes we do it to save our ourselves from some kind of anticipated embarrassment, sometimes to make us look good and sometimes to help someone else. Well somehow you can't escape the truth. These lies are like that boom-rang which we played with in childhood. It comes back to you sometime in the future and stabs you in your ass and what follows is utter embarrassment. So let me get this straight, we lied to avoid embarrassment but what ultimately happened was even worse.

What I feel is even worse than the embarrassment is the trust that is destroyed. Your words become less credible to people who witnessed your matinee show exposing your lies. Trust is something which might take ages to build up but it just takes a split second of stupidity to hamper everything that we created so far.

Sometimes though we are not even conscious of our lies. But I guess that is just a lame defence. We should have the control over what we speak. Lies might glitter up your grandeur and give instant gratification but surely is the long run, there is no going back. Someday or the other you will have to face it. The truth. And that is when you will realize that there is nothing more insulting and devastating than these costly lies.

Curse of immortality

2011-12-06T02:28:00.001-08:00

Like you and like them,
I also wanted immortality.
Thought it to be the panacea,
for all those fears, and for vulnerability.
Thought it would give omnipotence.

But I was wrong.It's a curse.
Life has meaning in it's dynamism,
and not in the longevity.
And you need no fortune of time,
to pursue your dreams.
One lifetime is ample.

I will be always this.Frozen.
Stagnant, like water of a lake.
But I envy the river.
Her flow and the possibilities.
That's what I miss the most. Possibilities.

Heritage or Just old buildings ??

2011-11-16T19:45:00.001-08:00

Recently I visited probably the most impressive fort that the Mughals left behind and which is more than 450 years old. It is one of the most detailed and intelligent piece of art. Every single structure has a purpose and every single purpose has many dimensions to it. One would be amazed to see the principles of water harvesting, modern ventilation and planned drainage, all were there and in most cases better than what we have today.

Amidst the grandeur and vastness of this place, I was intrigued by an opinion."Do we really need them today? There is a land crunch and I guess we can better utilize the huge spread of this monument".

With the growing disinterest of people in such places of historic relevance and the third class maintenance by the government officials, one might find himself/herself leaning towards this opinion. But when you dig deeper to seek the larger picture you find so many other variables that actually matter a lot. In a country like India, tourism industry is one of the largest employers. Although, most of it is in the unorganized sector.

Take for example, the city of Agra. The economy of Agra is solely run on the basis of tourism. There are zillions of hotels and like half of them are named after the 'Taj'. The city also has other monuments like the Red fort, Sikandra and Fatehpur Sikri which make it an attractive tourist location. Everywhere in the city, you only find hotels, restaurants and travel agencies. Every other local is either into hospitality or is a travel guide.

Tourism is something which has a great potential for India and a lot needs to be done to make sure that we fully utilize it. We are fortunate to have so many places with monuments and natural beauty spread all over the country. These can be productively be used to provide employment to the huge labor force of the country. And also various incentives can be provided to promote self employment and small scale industries at such places.

Call it heritage or call it old buildings, the bottom line is we need to preserve such places. If not for the legacy they carry, then for the fact that millions depends on them for their bread and butter.

Respecting your words

2011-11-11T22:17:00.001-08:00

Any social psychology expert would tell you that people behave differently in the presence of others.And the deviance from the real 'self' depends upon the level of closeness with the audience.The self, as per sociologist G.H.Mead, has two components namely 'I' & 'Me'. The former represents the incalculable,unpredictable and innovative component and the later is the coercive culmination of value premises imposed by the society. So, the former is the real self.

Mostly, all people are governed by the dominating 'Me' component. And even though we might be having a huge list of criticisms for say a person, we tend to behave normally before that person. We even try to please that person and don't let the grudges to surface in the conversation. But we find ourselves opening up quite frankly to a third person. We like to bitch about others behind their backs to this third person.

But when this third person sees you change colors like a chameleon in front of the person whom you have been insulting all the way, what would that third person conceive of you. You just became a spineless, coward and degraded person.This phenomenon is not restricted to just this. Sometime we go on blasting off grandeur in our talks and making propositions to impress others without even digging a little on our capabilities to turn them into realities. And even worse, sometimes we keep on fluctuating our opinions like a damn pendulum which makes it difficult for people to trust your words.

You should respect your words if you want others to respect you. You should be bold enough to express yourself freely to others. You should speak of things only when you are sure of your potential to turn them real. You should be what you are.All the time. A person of few words but with a spine is any day better than a verbose, spineless and coward jackass.

I confess that my past and present would certainly make me a spineless coward. But I am not going to project it to my future.I mean it.

Shit happens, mostly in India

2011-10-25T22:59:00.000-07:00

Train journeys have certain peculiarities.The slightly shaky and noisy experience is not that bad. When you wake up to a beautiful morning, you look across the window to find meadows.The picturesque display of Indian greenery certainly cheers you up.But every rose comes with thorns.Suddenly the beauty is replaced with multitudes of asses shitting in open and apparently singing in chorus,"Nile gagan ke tale, subah ke panch baje....."

As per UNICEF's findings for the year 2008, India accounted for 58% of those practicing open defecation globally. In simpler terms, almost 6 out of every 10 people in the world shitting in open are doing so on Indian soils. Imagine the rate at which mere desh ki dharti is degrading. A whopping 54% of Indian population practice open defecation i.e. almost 64 crore. It is a matter a shame and disgust that even in more than 60 years of democracy, we have not been able to provide the very basic amenities to people.

It has multidimensional ramifications as well. The economic impact of inadequate sanitation costs India 6.4% of it's GDP. One might wonder how can shit be of so much worth. But the numerous health hazards and epidemics resulting from the open defecation are damaging the health status of the country and surely is expanding the health care expenditure.Moreover, most of the open defecation places are ridiculously close to the cultivated lands.To add, with urbanization, the problem has spread to the urban areas as well. The slums breeding in the urban sprawls pose to great threat to the urban health.

An urgent action plan seeking to provide sanitation everywhere in the country is the burning need of the hour.Is it really unreasonable or unrealistic a demand? We are not asking for 4G services for every citizen, we are not asking for Broadband connectivity to every rural household, we are not asking for an Indian GP but for the love of god, give the people of India places to shit with dignity.

Bad lexicon

2011-10-12T09:54:00.000-07:00

Words. Imagine a world without them. Silent and dull. They are the messengers of our consciousness. But a control over your lexicon is a must.

Sometimes we utter some bad lexicon. May be unconsciously. That creates a butterfly effect. It hurts someone close to you. You might not realize the same then. But then when you do realize, you cannot do anything. Words like bullets cannot be recalled.The best you can do is learn. There is no atonement for everything.

Any amount of tears cannot wash away the stains caused. And the worse part is, how the hell do I apologize to myself. It has hurt me, the most. I am not what I sounded like then. I lost myself for that very moment. Oh hell, I hate myself.

To hang or not to

2011-09-23T08:01:00.000-07:00

Capital punishment i.e. the authorized killing of a person by the state as a punishment for the offense committed, has been a matter up for discussion off late in the international arena. Many countries have banned capital punishment and this has created an international consensus against the use of capital punishment or death sentence.

This issue came up for the national debate when some of the mercy petitions seeking clemency were recently rejected by our honorable President Pratibha Devi Singh Patil. Our constitution provides for a pardoning power only given to President of the country even applicable in death sentences. As of today, around 60 such petitions are tabled in the office of the President. And the unhidden politicization of such matters is the only reason for the unjustified delays caused in such execution cases.

First and foremost, should India do away with capital punishment? This question certainly cannot just be answered out of a feeling of pity and kind. There are numerous aspects to be analyzed before formulating an opinion. Firstly, the state does not provide for a right to life or rather it does not give us life, ergo it should not have the authority to take away one. Secondly, morality does not permit us to take one's life whatsoever may be the circumstances and scenarios.But then, by what right or on what moral ground did the convict commit that heinous crime.This also needs to be kept in mind. Capital punishments can save the expenditure of the over populated jails, can create deterrence and ensures justice keeping in mind how people innovate ways to get out of imprisonments on grounds of health and other reasons. On the other hand, capital punishment is draconian, not reformative and the delays in execution result in traumatic periods for the guilty and his/her family members.

There have been instances when countries that banned capital punishment witnessed a rise in the crime rates within a couple of decades and today those very countries are trying to re-introduce capital punishment in their system.United Kingdom is one such example.Also, Singapore which was heavily criticized for the colossal number of executions it performed every year and the highly punitive law code it developed in the country.But today Singapore has one of the lowest crime rates of the world.

Having regard to the conditions in India, to the variety of social upbringing, to the disparity in the level of morality and education, to the diversity of the huge population and to the paramount need for maintaining law and order, India cannot risk the abolition of capital punishment. Today, we are no where near a stable society where we would not be needing stringent laws and punishments.May be some day when we see things in control, we should definitely act otherwise.Also, having capital punishment or other stringent punishments would only help if the conviction rate is high. In India, the poor conviction rate stands at 4%.And the long delays add to the misery.

Having agreed to continue with the capital punishment in India, we reach the next part of the dilemma. What form of capital punishment should be preferred? There are many - hanging, lethal injection, gas chamber, shooting, electrocution etc. While deciding, many would advocate an instant death. But would not it lessen the deterrence caused by a painful and slow one? Should not the criminal feel every bit of the crime before death? These are questions , difficult to answer. But we cannot let our morality come in the way to punish those who have violated morality themselves.

I vote to hang.

Modernising Khakhi

2011-09-20T06:40:00.000-07:00

I have come across many views on the degree of corruption in the Police department of India. Some claim that it's the least corrupt among other departments of the government where as some accuse of it being the most corrupt, in fact far ahead of the other ones. What I witnessed today would argue for the later.

A policeman enters and approaches the manager.The manager's face turns pale.He asks the waiter to pack some food for the policeman. After 10 minutes, another policeman. After 10 min, another. When the forth policeman arrives, the manager loses it. 'Look Sir, I am already serving free food to three postings of police personnel near this place. I am spending rupees 1000 every damn day on mother fuckers like you'. Seems like the policeman had no esteem. He stood there like a beggar claiming that he was just working on orders.Again came a free bag of food. The policeman smiled and marched out.

Corruption is though, only one of the numerous problems of the current day policing in India.The police force of the country is heavily overburdened and has one of the worst policeman-population ratio in the world. Moreover, the arbitrary transfers of senior levels officers in Indian Police is a big hurdle before attainment of efficiency and effectiveness.Though the appointments are facilitated by an panel-system, still they do not reflect the consideration of ability over seniority.Also, there are no mechanisms for grievance redressal to look after the complaints against policeman.Also, the reluctance of registering FIRs by the policeman is a big concern.Untrained policemen equipped with age-old rusted arms cannot fight the super equipped militants.

It is high time that the recommendations of the Soli Sorabji Committee are manifested and police reforms are taken up very seriously.First and foremost, the investigation part should be bifurcated and given to investigation agencies which will help the overburdened police to maintain law and order efficiently.Secondly, the tenure of higher officials should be fixed for at least 2-3 years.That would check the political interference. Thirdly, an independent commission should be constituted for the appointment of heads of armed forces and higher level appointments in the police. Further, Police Complaint boards need to be established at state and district levels to be headed by retired judges. This would bring accountability and would check the arbitrariness of police working. Lastly, we need to train the policemen in general warfare and provide them with modern arms and ammunition.

It is high time to bring at least some of these recommendations into practice asap and to re-establish people's faith in the sentinels of India.

The WTF bill

2011-09-15T06:11:00.000-07:00

Recently a new 'Animal Welfare Bill 2011' has been tabled in the Parliament. This will replace the old Prevention of cruelty to Animals Act 1960. Lets look at it's provisions.

(1) Freedom from thirst and hunger. Hmm, what about the million people starving in the country and hundreds of hunger deaths every year.

(2) Freedom from discomfort including access to shelter & place to rest. Well, why don't we first start with those people who are forced to live on the roads.Why don't we rehabilitate the slum people first?

(3) Freedom from pain, injury, sickness including prompt veterinary care. The country faces severe shortage of Primary health centers, medical professionals and services in rural areas and many die everyday due to absence of prompt ambulance services.You got to be kidding me with this.

(4) Freedom to express normal behavior of that species. So next time when you decide to throw a stone on a stray dog barking into the night and being a pain in your ass, think twice, that dog will be capable of suing you for this offense.

(5) Freedom from fear and distress and also provision for adequate space for natural movement and company of animals of their own kind. So while taking your dog on a walk, if your dog wants to indulge in some playful activities with the stray dogs, you have a right to remain silent, even if they indulge in public display of affection.

Well fun apart, the government needs to realize that nothing can be more important than the betterment of living standards for poor people. First ensure the fundamental rights of the people and an equitable society, then we will talk about animal rights. And for those who feel that dogs(read animals) should be treated humanely, i would say, lets first stop treating humans dogly.

Decade of tears

2011-09-12T06:53:00.000-07:00

They stood there,at ground zero,
mourning those souls who hadn't erred.
Those were innocent people.
Young and old.Black and white.
They never waged a war.

Is it fair, to take innocent lives,
for inducing terror, or for making a point,
Is it fair, to punish people,
for someone else's greed.
The answer is no.

Those responsible, should be hanged.
No, that would be far too easy.
Slow poison may be,
or a revengeful beheading.

We need to tell their brothers,
that we can kill too.

An eye for an eye,
would make the world blind.
But at least, that blind world,
would be fair.

Remember, remember, eleventh of September.

RIP

1947, all over again !

2011-08-25T08:07:00.000-07:00

Recently when I read Bipin Chandra's India's struggle for independence, I was touched. Deeply. We can not even imagine the magnitude of patriotism which prevailed in those times. There was this fire within every Indian.Desire to sacrifice everything for her independence. The fraternity amongst Indians was unprecedented. And those visionary leaders like Gandhi, Nehru and so many others. Oh, would love to get a glimpse of those times.If only I could go back.

But then, Anna happened.And this desire to witness 1947 came knocking on the door.The gates of Ramlila Maidaan,Delhi are the time machines which will give you a ride of a lifetime.As soon as you enter, you are awestruck by the amount of patriotism which is in the air.The unity and fraternity is unprecedented. The volunteers from across the nation are doing excellent work to maintain order and dignity. I was amazed to see even small children so willing to go to the stage so that they can hug the old man. People came up with their own patriotic poems and songs to electrify the already super charged atmosphere.One could see Anna struggling to keep away the tears drawn by the immense love and trust by the fellow Indians. I hope our representatives realize that our demand is not draconian, but the prevailing corruption surely is.

Initially I didn't object to the school of thought which claims that no law can end corruption in this country.What needs to be changed is the mindset of people. They further claim, that there is a very stringent law against dowry in the country, but did that help.Their points are valid ones. But then we cannot just sit idle criticizing.

Yes, may be this will not eradicate corruption in totality or even considerably for that matter, but surely it is a big step forward as far as the awakening of masses is concerned. Yes, some of the demands may be beyond the line, but given the extreme penetration of corruption in the government machinery, it's justified. Yes, civil society drafting a bill may be unconstitutional , but a constitution enacted in 1950 cannot be held like the word of God.

People are frustrated with corruption and it the anger shows it all. One man, 74 years of age, has mobilized millions and millions of people. Why? Because he struck the right chord in every Indian. We all already feel and know what he is saying out loud. But this collective voice never resonated with a pitch so mindbogglingly high. This is the time to let the anger come out. This is the time to unite. This is the time to be a part of the second freedom struggle of India. In any way possible, make your contribution. Because it's now, or never.

Anna is India \m/

I & Me

2011-08-24T08:32:00.000-07:00

I have been running,
don't know since when.
I remember, turning back,
fearing those ubiquitous shadows.
They have been stalking me,
don't know since when.
They manipulated, I became me.
I struggled, all in vain.
I acted cowardly, didn't resist,
allowed them to paint the world, for me.

But you can never run away,
from the real you.
May be you pretend, or hide,
cannot just run away.
So, it came back, all of it.
I could see my original sin.
But no more of that now,
demolishing those strings, me became I !

Article 78, Personified

2011-08-23T11:24:00.000-07:00

Article 78 of our constitution talks about the duties of the Prime Minister with respect to furnishing information to the President.In a way this is only article which talks about the relationship between two most important executives of our country.

Jawaharlal Nehru and Dr. Rajendra Prassad were the first to portray these two roles in Indian polity.And boy, they did set the standards pretty high so much so that no other pair has attained those levels of understanding and respect for each other. What helped was, they were very good friends and had known each other since long and cooperated in the national freedom struggle. Both maintained a cordial relationship between the two offices and maintained their sanctity.

Then was the era of the charismatic Prime Minister Indira Gandhi who undermined the office of the president.She even went to the extreme of making office of the President a mere rubber stamp by imposing on him the advice of Council of Ministers as binding by the 42th amendment act.Later though, the President was given some discretion. So in her tenure, there was hardly any coordination between the two offices. No retaliation came from the office of the President due to weak incumbents. The relationship worsened in the times of Rajiv Gandhi and Giani Zail Singh.They became almost anti to each other which was very destructive for the smooth functioning of the government.

When P.V.Narasimha Rao came into power, although there were no difference per se with the President but there were hardly any exchanges. He was such a deep thinker and silent personality that he would have taken the whole day to update the President on a single matter. And hence things didn't work out at such low pace. Although then came a time when we can say that the relationship somewhat revived in the times of Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Dr.A.P.J Abdul Kalam. They it seems used to communicate well and enjoyed working with each other.But the press ridiculed it by saying that it is just because of the fact that both are bachelors and have nothing to do at the end of the working day. Whatever may be the reason, the country did benefit under their leaderships for sure.

At present, we have a Prime Minister who has not spoken since he advocated the liberalization process in the 1990s. And to his misery we have a lady President. Imagine how difficult it is for Manmohan Singh to coordinate with the office of President. What is required today, is the presence of strong, statesman and visionary leaders in both of the offices who can rise above the petty politics and assert a dream to carry India ahead on their strong shoulders.

Rise of the Judiciary

2011-08-20T05:51:00.000-07:00

Any system is said to be in equilibrium when it's sub systems are performing as expected by the conscience of the parent system. A state hence would be balanced if the organs- legislative, executive and the judiciary, perform as per the state's conscience. But somehow that has not been yet observed when we look into various states in general and Indian State in particular.

Just after independence, we witnessed an era of dominance of the legislative. The strong leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru as our Prime Minister(1947-64) and his statesmanship,his ability to hold all the parliamentarians by a strong bond and of course the visionary steering, all made the legislative omnipotent.Neither the executive not the judiciary ever questioned the methods of the legislative. Jawaharlal Nehru maintained the sanctity of the parliament and gave equal opportunities of all.

Then came the era of the executive.When Indira Gandhi became the Prime Minister(1966-75), she dominated the functioning of the parliament and thus the executive gained superiority over the legislative.The dormant secretariat of the Prime Minister i.e the PMO, gained importance. Under the control of P.N.Haksar, the PMO started issuing writs to the ministries and departments. Something which was new for Indian polity.

Post 1977, the era of one-party dominance came crashing down and Congress went out of power for the first time since independence. Coalition politics was slowly on the rise which was bound to make the legislative weak. And in the absence of strong leaders like Nehru, the executive too was bound to collapse. This was the time when the judiciary started attaining power. It fought many battles to widen it's ambit and even though the legislative tried to contain it, but that was all in vain.

Then came a paradigm shift with the concept of PIL(Public Interest Litigation). Article 32 of Indian constitution enables us to directly move to Supreme court in case of violation of any Fundamental Right. But then majority of Indian population had no idea about these provisions and this holds true even today. So the judiciary provided that now anyone can approach the courts on behalf of the victims.This was called public interest litigation.And this was the beginning of judicial activism which resulted from malfunctioning of the legislative and the executive. Also, the courts started taking suo moto cognizance of ill practices and wrong doings and issuing orders to rectify them. The overtake of the work of the executive, is something beyond the purview of legitimate judicial activism and is considered as judicial over-reach.

Judicial activism is a welcome phenomenon only in the short run.If it is carried out for long, it may destroy the concept of separation of power and can destroy the checks that provide the balance among the three organs.Hence the judiciary must employ self-restrain and evolve a code of ethics for judges while indulging in judicial activism and shall only use it as a last resort.

childish aspirations

2011-08-12T04:10:00.000-07:00

I could not take my eyes off that bird. How effortlessly it flew amidst the clouds and over us. As if the winds were made for them alone.Then another one came chasing from behind and teasing with his levels of acrobatics.I love looking at the birds up in the sky.The realization of absolute freedom i can only envisage through their flight.I voiced my feelings.

The other voice teasingly remarked- he is still in his childhood.I would not deny that. In fact, I do not want to part ways with that little child in me. All of us have been through those days. How innocent,pure and noble are the thoughts then. No bias, discrimination and favoritism.That is when we are fair to others.Just and real. Growing up and owning the responsibilities is one thing, but who said you should let go off that innocence and that zest to inquire more and more.And I think not giving up your childhood keeps you sane and cuts down on your rage.

There was another voice which wanted to know which one super power I would ask for. For me, it has always been the desire to embrace the sky. To attain that absolute degree of freedom. Some wanted a note printing machine, some the power to read minds. I just want to play amongst the clouds.

Saplings of corruption

2011-08-11T20:29:00.000-07:00

There are couple of places in Delhi which can be called as the most fertile fields of the country as far the crops of civil servants are concerned.Along with the green revolution in the agriculture, there came a coaching revolution in civil services.Green revolution is often criticized for the crop and regional disparities.Similarly, the revolution in civil services preparation was restricted to Delhi, more or less.

Now from such crowd, it is expected that the visionary ones will rise above and ergo will be given the responsibilities to run this country.So one might expect super keen youngsters yearning to dedicate themselves for the service of the nation with unlimited and unbound dedication.Given the scales of responsibilities, one expects strong shoulders immune to corruption.

Unfortunately, this is just idealism at it's best.It is disheartening not to find people with the zeal to play a role in the development of our nation.And at the same time, it is disappointing to see the majority striving only for an ambassador, life long security, unbound power and a license to corruption. With such already infected seeds, only saplings of corruption will rise and someday will grow into a full fledged tree of corruption with deep and thick roots sucking out all the public resources and eventually numerous such trees would spread the already huge bureaucratic jungle.Whats more shocking is the fact that people here are talking outright about there plans to set new horizons of corruption.They even sometimes exchange their ideas on the best and secure ways to facilitate under the table deals.

And you cannot deny the fact that many of them will be there tomorrow feeding on the public money and ridiculing the office of civil servant. With such people given the control of bureaucracy, the old dream of trickle-down effect will remain a dream.And the policies of government to bring equality will be scribblings and nothing more.

Lizard of ooze

2011-08-09T09:37:00.000-07:00

When you spend most of your time in a single room whose four walls are very close and there is hardly any room to move, you observe things.Things which normally are not tapped by our consciousness. Lizards have always accompanied us as if inspired from that Hutch commercial- where ever you go our network follows! So that day, I noticed one on the wall defying gravity and brunching on teeny tiny innocent insects.Like many, I hate lizards.They are ugly,spooky and they multiply rapidly.

But then in these rainy days, it's the flies and insects that bother us more, i thought.And that hungry little reptile was doing a great job.So that called for a choice.Either a lizard or zillion flies.Ain't a difficult choice at all. Status-quo maintained.

Sadly, like some humans, lizards too don't understand the rules of status-quo. You respect other's space. You don't interfere. And most importantly, you don't shit around when the other is at point blank range. That little jackass wagged it's tale and i thought it was just a celebration of another catch.But it was something else.Something gross.It shitted on my books.That was the end of cease fire. It violated the treaty.I picked up my broom.No not to play Quidditch stupid , me not Harry.And with a bang, the lizard of ooze was out of my room.Peace.

Gentlemen by choice

2011-07-31T06:19:00.000-07:00

We never denied, your just pride.
Never we questioned, abrupt strides.
Sentinel to your vulnerability,
your highness, we oblige.

We didn't commit female foeticide,
neither we sinned infanticide.
Cherished you rather of diverse roles,
of mother,of daughter and of holy souls.

We too want a world,
need not where you strive,but thrive.
And need not where you cry, but fly.
We too dream that day,
of equality of say,
and symbiosis of stay.

So ladies, remember ,
not all boys are dogs.
some do echo your voice,
called Gentlemen by choice !

P.S- Inspired from a belief of a girl who claims that all boys are dogs.

Women empowerment and Peace

2011-07-29T19:39:00.000-07:00

The oldest known civilization on our lands was the Indus Valley civilization about 5000 years back. Those people worshiped a female goddess who was seen as a symbol of creation and women in that civilization enjoyed an equal status. Apparently these semi-clad hunters were more fair to women then the contemporary technologically advanced breed i.e us.

Even though a lot has been debated and bought in practice so as to empower women, much more needs to be done. We today proudly exemplify the progress made by us in women empowerment by using couple of cult names like Kiran Bedi, Bachendri Pal, Pratibha Patil and couple of others.But the list is not long given the colossal population we have.Many schemes such as Ujjawala, Priyadarshini and National commission for women have surfaced and proved effective.Though this is just the beginning of a long journey.

For any kind of empowerment, political empowerment is a prerequisite.Ours is a democratic system where the powers are vested into the elected representatives of the people and unless we have an equal share of women in parliament, the overall empowerment can not be achieved.One such bill is long pending to be introduced.Although some states have taken mature decisions in this regard by providing 50% reservation in the local government elections which is a huge stride towards eliminating the gender bias.

Education is another important aspect.As per the 2011 Census preliminary reports, though the overall literacy rate climbed to 74.04% which is a welcome sign for India, the literacy rates for females and males were 65.46% and 82.14%.The gender gap of 16.68% speaks for itself. A lot needs to be done for ensuring participation of women in education with special focus in the rural areas where the situation is worse.While framing the education policies and schemes the makers should keep in mind that-"If you educate a man, you educate an individual but if you educate a woman, you educate a whole family".

Peace comes out of the cordial existence of the two sexes.Conflicts arise only when one dominates.Domination cannot in any way be fair.And the way to bring peace is to bring the women at par with men via their empowerment. And those who claim that special treatment to women is against the equality of law should revisit the pages of history where she has been confined between the four walls and enslaved for generations.Women empowerment brings them to the center stage where they can actually realize the wide spectrum of opportunities waiting for them. Women should endeavor and men should encourage.So that the road to liberation becomes a reality.

Jawaharlal Nehru once famously remarked-" You can tell the condition of the nation by looking at the status of the women." And I believe a day will come when that statement would loose it's grandeur as on that day, women would outclass men in every sphere of consideration.

Bureaucratic alienation

2011-07-24T02:48:00.000-07:00

Alienation as a concept was given by Karl Marx in relation to his theory of dialectical materialism that explains the origin of class and class struggle. He basically highlighted the increasing isolation the worker class was being subjected to.The proletariat i.e the worker class had no say in the production process and were thus distanced from the product, the process, the community of workers and eventually from themselves. Thus, they got alienated from all spheres of society.

In contemporary times, we can find this phenomenon across all economic activities. The leadership everywhere is dominated by the elite and the execution is left for the majority who as a result of this face alienation. This alienation has unfortunately also crippled our bureaucracy. The permanent executives of our country are selected via a very detailed and unbelievably tough process and only the learned and knowledgeable go through.But ironically those who control them are not even graduates.Such people only due to popularity or rather a political blood line become the representatives and control the bureaucrats.

With such a system in place, alienation had to creep in.Even if the bureaucrat understands the populist action or the genuine action required, he would have to dance to the whims and fancies of the ministry.That is bound to isolate him from his responsibilities and ultimately from the system.One such incident which happened in a district in the Chambal region is of relevance. As a solution to the problem of dacoits in this region the government announced a scheme which provided a rehabilitation package to all the dreaded dacoits if they surrender to the Police.The policy actually worked and lot many surrendered.But there was a peculiar case where that dacoit had not killed a single civilian.He told the Police that he had become a dacoit to take wealth from the rich and give it to the poor.But he had never killed anyone in those 10 years of dacoity. Interestingly, the concerned D.G of Police could not accept his surrender and he wasn't given the rehabilitation package.The reason- that package was specially for dreaded dacoits i.e those who have killed at least 10 persons. The D.G said " Though I understand the flawed policy, but my hands are tied". So was that dacoit supposed to go back and kill 10 persons to entitle himself the rehabilitation package?

The bottom line is, if you are so willing to have the best of the lot at the bureaucratic positions, you should at least give them some freedom. They should be given some discretion which they can utilize to shape up the public policies keeping in mind the realities of grass root level and the flaws enclosed in the present system. Why to give U.P.S.C a hard time if the government only wants puppets?

Curse of Seniority

2011-07-23T08:27:00.000-07:00

In our country, a donkey born earlier is considered better than a horse born later. This is ubiquitous in the Indian bureaucratic machinery and mostly in all social systems.Experience is given the utmost priority.Now here the word 'experience' does not guarantee a sound knowledge in the concerned field of work. It simply means, that person has spent more time playing in this ground. It's quantitative, not qualitative.It is not concerned with efficiency or effectiveness.And the sad part is that it is highly acceptable and unquestionable in our society.

Take the case of promotion in offices in general and government offices in particular. Your accent in the hierarchy is more a function of time than of performance,productivity,innovation and so many other eligible criteria. So irrespective of the value you are adding to the system or your commitment for the firm's objective, some day anyway you will be promoted. It's more of a problem in the public sector where the employees feel totally secured. They have no incentive to be innovative or proactive.

Even in our extended families, the eldest male is considered to be the decision maker. And a genuine innocent argument given by a younger member to support his action is seen as a revolt against the family norms and a mark of disrespect of the elders. Now with fast changing social behavior of the society, changes are inevitable.Both in values and in culture. So, the young generation will think and act differently. To elders , it may seem amoral is some respects. They should in such cases, come out from the chambers of orthodoxy and have an open mind.

Experience is important.But only that one which has been dynamic in it's evolution. The one which has modified itself in the purview of modernity.And not that one which has orthodoxy as it's soul.

Signs

2011-07-17T04:46:00.000-07:00

What happens after death? Where does the spirit go ? Is it just energy or far beyond that? And are memories carried upon or lost in translation?

It was almost a year that day since he left us.Rather his spirit left his body.We all had assembled for the rituals to be performed on his first death anniversary.It was late in the night that suddenly the peaceful silence was transformed to fearful anxiety.Everyone woke up to the sound of the door bell.Now it's not abnormal to hear the sound of the door bell at such unearthly hour.But if that door bell had never ever made a sound before since we moved to this place, then it's kind of weird.There was something wrong with the inner wiring and we never bothered to get it fixed.So, that button outside with a door-bell sign was redundant and dormant. But that night, it made sounds.Multiple times.May be it was the mischievous rain that evening though it was hours before the occurrence of this event.But our hearts felt something else.They felt his presence.I opened the door and went outside.No one was there.Rather no one was visible to us.Some part of us though wanted to deny what we saw.I don't know why I stood there for a while expecting him to surface to that we could embrace him.Then I went inside, and stared his picture on the wall.I tell you, his eyes never felt so lively.

Later that day, while the rituals were going on, an old man came to our doors looking for food.That's again normal.But my mother told us that it was very rare in this locality.Coincidences do happen. But I am more than sure that those who witness, can draw a line between coincidences and signs.

We all miss you. And we know that it was you who belled us that night.Rest in peace, dad.

Patriarchy and Honour killings

2011-07-10T20:40:00.000-07:00

Sixteen-year-old Mujahedeh was murdered by her own father ostensibly to redeem her family's "honor."Her offense? Her family had accused her of bringing shame upon them by escaping a home in which she was subjected to daily beatings."She had enough," says Homa, a deputy director of a women's rights group called the Center for the Growth of the Talents of Afghan Women who got to know Mujahedeh. "She escaped home and went to the Ministry of Women's Affairs. Then she spent some time in a ministry shelter. She liked to go to school and was busy studying. She was enjoying [better] conditions and she didn't want to return to her family, but her mother insisted they'd let her go to school -- her mother said, 'Your father has forgiven your sin.' And she was finally forced to return to her relatives Later it was heard from a neighbor or someone else that her father had murdered her when she returned."

Human Rights Watch defines "honor killings" as 'Honor killings are acts of vengeance, usually death, committed by male family members against female family members, who are held to have brought dishonor upon the family. A woman can be targeted by (individuals within) her family for a variety of reasons, including: refusing to enter into an arranged marriage , being the victim of a sexual assault, seeking a divorce—even from an abusive husband—or (allegedly) committing adultery. The mere perception that a woman has behaved in a way that "dishonors" her family is sufficient to trigger an attack on her life'. Although we do see some cases where the men are also killed along with the women but that's a very small number relatively.So in general these killings target the innocent women.

Amidst a lot of research on finding the root causes of this evil, the social scientists have narrowed down their approach focusing on the greatest contributor.Patriarchy.This phenomenon of male dominance in the family goes way back to the times of inception of kinship and family structures.The oldest male member is seen as the head of the family and the protector of family's pride and honor. His is the supreme authority and his discretion is the final verdict.That was the era of male domination where women were just seen as subjects.Rather an instrument of man's lust.

And today, after a long drawn struggle by the women force, they have successfully broken the four walls of those abusive homes and made a foray into the mainstream proving there capabilities in all sectors and getting accolades for the discipline and innovation they have inculcated in the system.Her success frustrates the clans of orthodox men who still see patriarchy as a moral arrangement.They do not want to see her walking shoulder to shoulder. They are scared to be left behind by women.They want there place back.They want her back beneath their shoes.And 'honor killings' is the tool they have found.In the name of redeeming the family 'honor', they slaughter their own daughters,sisters and mothers so ruthlessly that even the Satan would not want a glance.And the most disgusting is the fact that these brutal and evil actions are seen as understandable and excusable by some people.It's a shame on the part of the educated masses who indulge and also on the part of the government who is not able to curb this ugly mean of vengeance.

The need of the hour is to stop the glorification of these killing, to take stringent actions against the culprits and to promote the NGOs and institutions which are working to help the victims in regaining normalcy. And those men with patriarchal hangover, need to be told that men are physically stronger to protect women.And not to profess.

Anger Management

2011-07-09T09:15:00.000-07:00

What is anger? Why does sometimes our head acts like a radiator ? Why do we feel offended ? What makes us red hot ? Answers to all these may be different for each of us.But one thing is universal.That if allowed, this monster can ruin it all. Doesn't matter how long you have been slogging for something. Doesn't matter how much you love the other person. That small eruption of rude,harsh,loud and senseless words will screw you so bad that you won't even realize what actually hit you.And worse, words and actions are irreversible.

Most of the times it is the ego. We all think very high of ourselves.Irrespective of what we do or have been up to, we feel that no one can achieve what we can.We feel that we are different.We feel that we are the one.And how come someone object or contradict my verdict.What does he think of himself? That jackass. Sad but true. Seldom we open ourselves to criticism. Moreover, courtesy the modernity, the collective conscience of this generation takes judgement by others as an insult.Rather an offense on his part. There are some who have anger running down their veins.They claim it to be in built. They just cannot tolerate non-compliance.That's even sadder.

Whatever may be the reason, but the ugliest part of it is to face the repercussions.You may end up losing a dear friend, ruining a lovely relationship, sabotaging your career and the list does not end here. These peculiar acts or outbursts are never forgotten. Even if the other claims to have forgiven you.That clot of dirt is immortal.It might even be there after you are gone.The only viable outcome is the one where you repent. Sometimes we might get lucky enough to get an act for atonement.But that's just sometimes. Not for all sins, the lord gives atonement.

So in those times when you start to feel the heat, when you start to loose yourself to anger, to that moment of madness, remember this one thing.Anger will only harm.And not only you.Take a deep breadth.Think something which makes you happy.And happiness shall prevail.

Cooperation without Coordination

2011-07-03T10:04:00.000-07:00

I like hearing stories.Many people do.But I enjoy them most when they teach us something.So there is this teacher who was trying to make a point.Cooperation without coordination is disastrous.He came up with a story.Thought would share with all of you.

'There is this guy who lives with his family.Parents and a sister.Poor family.Somehow he manages his graduation and thereafter dives deep in the pool of job hunt.Finally one day he gets an interview call which is scheduled a week later.He prepares well for his golden hour .But he had only one formal trouser. And that two an inch longer than what would fit him.But he wanted everything to be perfect that day.So asks his sister to fix it for him.She denies giver her busy schedule.He then asks his mother.Even she denies all tired with household work.He then goes to his father who was preoccupied with his mustache says doing that would be a big step down for him.Disappointed he himself fixes the trouser.

Next day his sister feels bad for denying his only brother.She reduces the length further, of course unwary of the fact that it had already been taken care of.Then his mother too feels the same and further reduces the length.Even dad swings into action.On the day of the interview when he puts of the trouser, it puzzles him that how come it turned into a 3/4th.'

Bhag DK Bose

2011-07-02T03:32:00.000-07:00

Bhag DK Bose is the revelation of 2011. And in record time this has become the national anthem of the Indian youth. No doubt that it's the perfect combination of rhythm,pace,music and most importantly, the lyrics. Finally we guys have a socially acceptable substitute for BC sutta. And the supplement 'Paincher' is not far behind. After all the shit we go through all day long, this song takes away all the heat.Respect.

There is something about expletives which probably will never be understood.They generate in you these immense impulses of energy which any amount of glucose would not.They are the best stress busters ever.Although I feel sorry for all the D K Boses in India whose name has been brought to mud here.But you know what, screw you guys ! The song is too good ! And for the complaining parents I would say that stop associating guilt with expletives. These are just words.That does not mean that I support their use openly and everywhere.But lets just make an exception for this song.

It's amazing that everyone can relate to this song somehow. Specially in our Bharat. In the era of this cut-throat competition, 100 % cutoffs, rampant corruption, overwhelming inflation, disgusting politics, shit is happening everywhere which is the basic theme of the song.I bet many people would love to dedicate this song to others who have been a pain in their asses.Like UPA government to Team Anna, again UPA to Ramdev, USA to Taliban , NATO to Qaddafi and so on. I bet Sushma Swaraj's next dance performance will be on this song come 2014 general elections.

:D

Uniform Civil Code

2011-06-28T07:34:00.000-07:00

India, according to the preamble of it's constitution is a secular state.The term 'secular' has different meanings in different nation-states. In United States of America, it means the dichotomy of religion and politics.It separates the two. While in India, it means that no discrimination will be done based on religion. In the eyes of the constitution, all religions are the same.That is the secular India we dream of.

India has majority of Hindus(84%). Then there are Muslims(11%),Christians(2.4%),Sikhs(2%) and so on.The remaining portion consists of Buddhists, Jains,Jews and Zoroastrians in that order. We are probably the most diverse state in terms of religion.Our constitution provides equality for all and the freedom of religion.But any minority is always bound to be exploited and deprived of certain rights.For that we do have a National Commission on Minorities which is very much needed.We can see how beautifully balanced the constitution is.

Some idealists though have been craving for a uniform civil code in India and lately these cravings have intensified and resulted in lobbying to pressurize the government of India to legislate for the same. Now, uniform civil code is an excellent idea.But we need to understand here that for that to happen first we have to get all the religious communities on the same page.Both in economic and social scales.To add to that, there are issues like separatism and communal violence that need to checked.It's quite obvious that such a move would attract harsh opposition from the minorities. With the 'minority' tag, they are entitled to various benefits and a sense of security which they would not want to give away for a uniform civil code.Some fractions of minorities who are well off might agree to it.But their numbers are infinitesimally small.They are the minority within the minorities.

Those who are pushing for an uniform civil code thus should wait for the right time.There is nothing wrong with it but the timing is always very crucial in such sensitive cases.

Since 1930

2011-06-26T05:16:00.000-07:00

Gandhi taught us to break rules, screw the government and observe complete civil disobedience in 1930. Somehow the Gandhian legacy of civil disobedience has stayed with Indians even after 64 years of independence.People still break rules, damage public property, devise new means of tax evasion and observe complete civil disobedience.

Bhai log, when Gandhi asked people to do this that was meant as a protest against the imperial government of the Britishers who were screwing us day-night and on top of it sucking money out of us.We were worse than prostitutes then. Getting raped and having to pay for it. But those days are over now.They left and we have a democratic system in place.Why the hell you still want to continue the civil disobedience.Have faith in the system.Make yourself aware of the various policies of the government.Government alone can not satisfy 1.2 billion people.Your support is absolutely essential. Be a responsible citizen and for the love of Gandhi, give up civil disobedience.

Shaitan

2011-06-25T04:00:00.000-07:00

In this world every equation is balanced, every action has a reaction, every motion has friction and every good entity has evil in situ. We all have it inside.Sometimes it is lust or sometimes greed.Envy.Wrath.So many. And sometimes it is just a moment of madness.But it does come out often. And we all try to hide it behind our skins and don't allow it to surface.Not because we hate it. We do it to save ourselves from being hated.We fear an outcast.

But is it right to fake? And why are we so obsessed to please the society ? Will we ever attain salvation being what we are not ?

If we have faith in universal equilibrium and the principles of checks and balances, we can not deny the possibility of a Devil for a given God. As per beliefs, God is the good cop. He cares and nurtures the universe. And blesses people who accept his supremacy and become his devotees.Rather followers.And God as the dictator.Devil on the other hand demands nothing for himself. He would rather want you to let yourself go free.He would rejoice a world without any rules.He would stand for absolute freedom.He would liberate your soul. Still he is called the bad cop. Sometimes I feel this good cop bad cop routine is an ambush. Isn't there a tiny possibility that the reality is this routine with role reversal ? What if the devil's path is the road to nirvana ? Weird though interesting.

All the time we talk about morals and ethics.All the time we flaunt our good deeds.But haven't you heard what the joker said.People are only as good as the world allows them to be.When the chips are down, these so called civilized people will eat other.We do have animal instincts. And this world order will soon only obey jungle law.Survival of the fittest. The question is how long you can hold it in? How long will it be before you unleash the Shaitan within.

Confessions of an Atheist

2011-05-16T03:46:00.000-07:00

People often visit temples and other sacred places.Some believe in the powers of the almighty,some look for peace, some for architectural brilliance and some just accompany theirs kins.But we all do visit temples.And most of us do not know anything about the temple we go to.We just say our prayers, put something in the box,take the prassad and rush out.But that is of no use.I used to go to temples before just to find peace.Nowadays even that is not possible with the kind of population we have.Anyways, I never believed in the concept of praying to God.Well if God exists, would he really want us to pray to him.That would be a trait of a dictator.I certainly do not question the existence of a higher power, but cannot accept his greatness for it being a dictator.

Well let us not drift away into a debate on the existence of God which is like a black hole.Lets talk temples.Recently when I visited Nasik, literally a city of temples , I realized that I never bothered about the stories that resulted in those sculpture.But this time when I heard all the stories answering why that particular temple is standing there and why that is shaped this way and what is it's significance.I was surprised that each pillar & each corner had a story to tell and all made sense.May be all this is not enough to transform an atheist like me but I surely know that there is always something to learn for these places of religious importance which you can relate to present times.And sometimes you also find those answers you have been looking for.

Amidst the grandeur of the Ram Kund , there was a neglected small temple of Ardhanareswara
with a deity half man half woman.That was so to depict that half of the power of a man lies in his woman.A fact that makes men uncomfortable but is damn true.All wise men would not deny.I was amazed at the simplicity of that deity and the colossal truth that it asserted.One might wonder if these deities and the temples were created just to pass messages for the coming generations from the learning's of our ancestors and not for any religious compulsions.

There are many other such instances from that trip, but I would say the best way is to go there and feel it yourself. I am not preaching here.Just making a point that if you go to such places, try to know the history behind.Because History is not boring.Not always.

Rageshree !

2011-05-10T08:22:00.000-07:00

She wants to be an artist.A designer rather.When you see her work, you would say that she is gifted.Many people are.But it takes some guts to follow your instincts and showing your finger to that stereotype lifestyle that majority of us end up with.

There is something about her.A spark may be or an aura.You feel different when she is around.It's not like she is an ET or something but there is something unearthly about her.A couple of years back no one would have guessed what she actually was.It was like she was in a shell.A temporary abode for deception.And then the real her came out.Confident,graceful,beautiful and amazingly cute.She is full of life,that undying zest and that million dollar smile.

To me, she is one of those people to whom you need not make an effort to open up.It goes utterly butterly smooth when we two chit-chat.To me, she is a picture of confidence,hope and beauty.To me, she is one of those whom i would turn to when down. To me, she is the sister i never had.

I am confident that she will make it big one day. She will make all her dreams real and all her well wishers proud.And little sis, I wish you all the happiness in this world.I will be just two steps behind if you need me.Go girl, rock the world!

Legend of RMR

2011-05-09T06:25:00.000-07:00

'Raja' Ram Mohan Roy was a great visionary, thinker and the greatest socio-religious reformer of modern India.Ergo popularly referred to as the 'Father of Modern India'.He was the central figure who organised the religious reform in the early years of 19th century. He was a pioneer of several activities in India.He started political agitation against the Britishers for the first time.A much needed step in those desperate times of slavery.He also started the religious reform movements against the super-stitious rituals and practices of various religions practiced in India.

In 1814, he established 'Atmiya Sabha' as a religious organization to propagate his ideas regarding monotheism.To support his say he wrote the book 'Gift to Monotheists'.He was a firm believer that all religions lead to the same God, the only God.Further in 1829, he established 'Brahma Samaj' to purify the Hindu religion.

For the upliftment of higher education, he with the support of the Dutch 'David Hare' established 'Hindu College' at Calcutta.He was also instrumental in the establishment of 'Vedant College' to impart modern and scientific education to the youth of Bengal.He is also referred to as the 'Father of Modern Journalism' in India as he was a scholar of many Indian languages and himself wrote books like 'The Percepts of Jesus' & 'Gift to Monotheists'.He also started agitation for social reform in India and persuaded the British authority to declare the custom of Sati as illegal.

One man, so many influential works and contributions that too in a period when Indians where suppressed at every step by the British.It's ironical that today when we have a democracy in place and are given Fundamental Rights, we do not have even a single leader or visionary like RMR.To uplift this golden bird from the still existing social taboos and evils, and from poverty and colossal inequality, we need a handful of people like RMR in the billion plus population.

Raja Rammohan Roy , this Nation will never forget what you gave her.

Respect.

To Phalke !

2011-05-03T03:36:00.000-07:00

We all love movies, we all have a thing for the stars and although we may pretend to read only 'The Hindu' but never do we forget to pick the latest 'Filmfare' from the stands.Bollywood today is the largest film industry the whole world employing over 3 million people and producing over 900 movies every year in several languages.Have you ever thought of it's inception ? Dundiraj Govind Phalke(aka Dadasaheb Phalke) was a born entrepreneur and experimented with lots of things before getting his hands on the camera.He was involved with the printing press which he left following some disputes with his partners and assured them that he would not compete with them in the printing business.And even though his financial status trembled like Fukushima, he did not compete with his old partners.People started calling him 'Harishchandra' for keeping his words.

And them in the year 1911, he accidentally ran into a fair where the Britishers where showing some motion pictures in a tent.Phalke was mesmerised after watching the film and at that moment itself decided to establish this industry in India.After numerous requests the operator of the tent agreed to teach him how all that stuff worked.Given that he had no money, he started selling the furniture of his house so that he can have the money needed to study this virgin phenomenon.For weeks he drowned himself in the reels of pictures trying to figure out the beautiful puzzle of movie-making.Unfortunately he lost his sight temporarily due to overdoing it and ultimately straining his eyes.His friends and kins tried their level best to stop him from risking everything for something totally new to India and it's people.They even tried to admit him into a mental hospital.But he didn't stop and was heavily supported by his wife with her immense faith.

He then arranged finance by mortgaging his securities so that he could go to London to learn the art and get the required equipments.After coming back, the first thing he needed was to arrange for the finance.People were afraid to invest in something which was totally new to India and sadly there were no Venture Capital firms at that time.Then something came to his mind.

"Chamatkara sivay namaskar nahi !(Everybody salutes a miracle!) "

Then he created a short film depicting a seed growing into a plant.Something which was never done before.People were totally mesmerised with magical creation of Phalke and some of them agreed to provide finance for his first production.He then hired actors and decided to tell the famous tale of Raja Harishchandra.At that time women hadn't come out of the purdas and he couldn't manage to get a woman to play Rani Taramati.So adamant was he about a woman playing Taramati and not a man dressed as woman that he even went to the red light areas of Bombay in search of his Taramati.A place he thought one could find the bold and the beautiful.But it didn't work out and ultimately he had to settle with a man.

For shooting some of the sequences they decided to go to a near by village.There whole troop dressed as saints and royal men with swords and trishuls apparently looked like a gang of bandits.All of them where arrested by the local police for suspicion.Somehow they managed to convince the police that they were just going to shoot for the film.While shooting Plalke's son got injured as he fell upon the rocks and everyone suggested that they should go back at once.But Phalke noticing the minor injury asked everyone to complete the stint first as the sun was approaching the horizon and it was not possible for them to come back for shooting the remaining scenes.Some dedication!

The film was completed and released in 1913 at the coronation theatre.The experiment was a super success and laid the founding stone of Bollywood.Then came other films like 'Bhusmasure Mohini' & 'Satyavan Savitri'.Phalke went on to make more than 100 films.He is an example of dedication,passion and of believing in what you dream.I remember few of his words during his long struggle for making the first motion picture of India.

"Bedhun taakin saari gagne! ( I will tear apart the sky!)"

Lets remember him in our hearts and Let raise the toast to Phalke & the magic that followed!

The Jhingalala Dilemma

2011-04-19T05:29:00.000-07:00

Well I was kind of in a dilemma too regarding the title of the post and ended up jazzing it a little.Scheduled Tribes of India a.k.a STs have been here for a while now and by a while I mean way before our ancestors i.e. the Aryans invaded Indian territories.But sadly their seclusion from the mainstream has not diluted till date.They have been isolated from all the progress and development we and our communities have witnessed.They still live in the dense flora of India surviving on subsistence pre-agriculture economy with bows,arrows and stones.

According to the Article 342 of our constitution, our President has the power to declare a community as ST.Though there is no constitutional definition or criteria, general conventions have developed mainly after the 1931 census.Indications of primitive traits, distinctive culture,geographical isolation, shyness of contact and backwardness being some of the general identifiers.The 2001 census puts the overall population of STs as 8.2% of the total population.Interestingly this is spread over 15% of our geographical area and ergo thinly populated.And maximum tribal population in my own state M.P.Although never came across anyone as I haven't been into the wild.

Although they are way behind the mainstream in all indicators, but they have a better sex ratio and child sex ratio as compared to the rest.Probably because they haven't reached the female foeticide stage.Ignorance can be a bliss !

Post independence a lot has been done for the STs. At least as far as amending the constitution is concerned.But then few tribal activists feel that we should not interfere into the lives of tribal people and they should be allowed to develop on the lines of their own genius.A brain teaser for the human rights activist.To help or to isolate.Some feel that if they are removed and brought to mainstream they will loose the long kept culture and would not cope up with the outside world.On the other hand the government has obligation for the promotion of their educational and economic interests as tribes are the weaker sections of the society.As stated in the Directive Principles of State Policy.

Lately we have seem many cases when the tribes opposed the development projects by the government in their lands.They apparently are happy with what they have and do not want interference.Rather than forcing developments on these people we should pass the dais for taking a call to them making them aware of the current scenario and the developments made by the world.They should be allowed to make an informed decision.Even though to us they are just Jhingalalas, but they are also humans.They are also the citizens of India.And they also enjoy Fundamental Rights.

The A.I.C-I Superbug

2011-04-17T07:36:00.000-07:00

Jantar Manter on that day was overwhelmed with the public response in support of Anna.He finally got the government nod for the Jan Lokpal Bill against the rampant corruption in the veins of the bureaucracy and governance.People are hopeful and jubilant.Hope is a good thing but that this won't suffice.

Looking at the past, we have had several bills and legislations over numerous other social issues and even after they became acts, nothing has changed significantly.For example, the bills formulated on dowry, child labour, sex determinations etc.They all exist in the constitution now and have the punishments listed in the Indian Penal code but can we say that these evils do not exist now? In fact laws on these issues apparently have changed nothing.When ever we come across someone taking dowry or whenever we see a child working in a shop, do we do anything about it? Do we use the existing laws? What people need to understand that having a law won't suffice, the people should feel for that law.

Often we criticize oligarchs of corruption and for ruining the fate of the nation but more often we ourselves indulge in unlawful acts.How many of us can put a honest claim that they have never faulted or paid a bribe, directly or indirectly.When we have some work in some governmental organization, we often use money power to speed up the process.We hardly follow traffic rules in India.And when stopped by the traffic police for not wearing a helmet or not having a pollution card, we never get a challan done.Who the hell wants to go to the magistrate for this meager amount.Why not give that traffic policeman half the amount and live in peace.It's a kind of service tax you see.But we never stop criticizing the politicians for their violations as they are colossal.But there is nothing called small corruption.The typical Indian mindset "Itna to chalta hai yaar!".Think, if someone harasses a girl a little, it will still be harassment.

As far as the government officials at the lowest levels are concerned, they with their not so handsome pay-scale don't mind a little extra to cope up with inflationary living standards imposed on the middle class.As long as there is unequal distribution of resources, this will persist.So it's a all win situation when it comes to our personal work.Otherwise it's a crime.And this principle has injected this All-India-Corruption-I Superbug in us.All of us. And the Lancet hyped NDM-I superbug is no competition at all.

Blasts from the past

2011-04-03T06:16:00.000-07:00

Who said History is boring? I mean yes, the numerous teeny-tiny kingdoms of medieval India do overwhelm us sometimes but other than that part, it's actually pretty interesting, educative and fun too.Yes, I said fun. And as our historians say, to understand the present you first need to understand the history.But this post strictly is about the fun part, rather the funny part.

The medieval Indian History and also the ancient Indian History to some extent was all about Turkish rulers, fights among dynasties and wars of succession within dynasties.And the throne of the Delhi sultanate was the dream of all the rulers.The first name that strikes me is Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq.He was a great visionary and way ahead of his time but sadly none of his ambitious projects materialized.Introduction of a token currency(which we use today),shifting of the capital and his agrarian reforms all failed miserably.And this was not it.When his father was returning after the triumph of province of Bengal, he decided to create a large wooden platform for the grand reception of his father not knowing the fact that his father was returning with a fleet of elephants as war booty.When they reached the platform, it collapsed and his father died in this accident.

Next, the founder of Sur dynasty, Sher Shah.While on one of his expeditions of annexation, he died because of a gunpowder explosion of his own weapon.Had he lived for another decade or so, probably the Indian throne would have never witnessed the Mughals.Also, he started the construction of his own tomb at Sasaram,Bihar.Huh, we all know that we are mortal but who the hell digs his grave in advance. Next is Humayun,son of Babar.When he came back to the throne in 1555, little did he know that he was not going to last long.In 1556 only, he fell from the stairs of his own library 'Sher-Mandal' and died.A ruler who had dreams of taking big strides faulted in his small steps.

Lets go back a little in the 13th century where we witnessed the Slave dynasty.The founder, Qutub-uddin-Aibak died when he fell off his horse while playing a game of Polo and succumbed to injuries.Another ruler of slave dynasty,Gyas-uddin-Balban who with the help of the nobles of the then court was throned to power,after accession decided to abolish the nobles so that they had no power against him to propose another candidate.Smart move Gyas.This was not it, he also introduced court etiquette's like Sijda(to bow in front of the king) and Paibos(to lick king's feet).Burnnnn !

And many more are there to explore.So again, who said History is boring? :D

Metro Blues

2011-03-28T01:25:00.000-07:00

Delhi metro has become the heart of the capital and also the third largest metro network in the whole world.And no doubt that it's on the way to the top spot.With so many lines up and running, one might have expected to rush to dial down but it has multiplied.In terms of human density, it is slowly tending towards Mumbai local. The obvious reason is the prevailing awareness about this rail-web all over Delhi. But then with increasing number of daily commuters, it becomes a problem for the elderly and women folk.

Now that the metros have a coach dedicated for women, a part of the problem is solved.In the common compartments special reserved seats are there for the elderly,for women and for the physically handicapped.But then its a sad truth that humble and generous commuters are a rare these days.People do not care to vacate seats for the elderly, for women and for physically challenged people.Even those with are entitled for them.And these deserving people have stopped asking for their right fearing a harsh reaction.

Today while traveling when I noticed a very elderly person standing, rather struggling, in front of a seat reserved for the elderly occupied by a youth in his prime, I felt this anger.Which was not new.But this time I acted upon.

'Sir, that seat is reserved for you.You can very well ask him to vacate it for you. '

'Oh! No worries Son.It's just a matter of 10 minutes.And probably this young generation wants it more than our generation.We can stand for hours, but today's generation can't.'

' I agree to that Sir but then when certain provisions are given by the government for you, you should not wave them off just because you think asking for it would be overdoing it.'

' Son, let them sit.I don't want to disturb anyone.And thanks for asking. '

'Why thank me.Sad that morals are going extinct.That young man should have vacated by himself. '

The young man sitting at that seat probably heard what i said and vacated the seat.But i guess I should have said it loud and at his face.Anyways, that old stallion got the seat.But the thing that moved me today was what he did next.He offered his seat to another elderly person who joined at the next station.Shame on all the youth sitting in that compartment.

Nasik Express

2011-03-27T02:09:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful morning it was.It had to be.I was going to see her today.It had been nearly a year.A tough year.But she always stood close by like a silent guardian. She always believed in me and probably that is the best gift you can give to someone.Lost in her thoughts I almost forgot that I had a test that day.And also there was a twist.She was traveling with her dad.I hope you remember Bangalore Express.She said she would decide whether I should come or not depending upon your honor's mood.With all due respect to your honor, I just could not imagine she going via Delhi without I getting to see her.Anyways after those uncomfortable questions on Indian geography, I wondered why she hasn't called.

I hate train journeys.Can it get any worse? People can be so stupid.Huh.And to add I am not feeling well today.The only good thing is that I get to see him.Wow, it has been almost a year.Not exactly though.Eleven months.Dad is doing fine i guess.No temper reported as of now.Sigh.I think I should call him and ask him to come.

She called.And the supreme court gave the verdict in my favor.She had told her dad that I would be coming at the station to meet her as I had to give her some novels.It is interesting to note that people still fall for stuff like that.No offense your honor.She said the train would reach Delhi around noon.So I rushed from the test center directly to the Delhi station.After standing in the queue for like 30 minutes, shouting at countless people trying to mingle into the queue near to the ticket window and denying a couple of offers from people ready to pay 10 bucks for a platform ticket which was only 3 bucks, I finally got in.When I checked the display, I looked for the name which she told me.It was coming in 10 minutes.I remembered what happened last time when I went to meet her at a station.I cautiously noted the platform number and double checked the train name.That was just bad luck.I consoled myself.At the platform, I somehow ended up at the wrong end courtesy that stupid kooli.I ran to the other end of the train where her coach was.It was strange that no one was standing outside.Huh, probably she is not feeling well.I tried calling her,couldn't connect.I went inside the coach looking for her and your honor.I checked the whole coach and could not find her.I had no clue what the hell was going on.Is she pulling my leg? Or is it your honor's idea of fun? So not cool. To confirm, I went again and almost woke up a girl sleeping in one of the compartments realizing in time that she was her.I called her again.

He called.I guessed he was already on the station waiting for me.So cute.But it turned out to be super funny.He got into the wrong train looking for me."We haven't reached yet stupid.That is probably the up train.This one's going down",I told him.I could not stop myself from laughing.

She laughed like anything.Well I was actually bothered what her dad might be thinking.All the good will that I had created, all crashed like a castle of cards.And I could see him smirking.Shit.How stupid of me.Obviously there are two trains with the same name.Shit.Anyways the correct one was coming in 30 minutes.I decided to act strategically this time.And placed myself right on spot where the coach was supposed to come.But at the last moment, the damn platform was changed.I ran.I called her and asked her to stay put inside as the platforms were depicting why we are second only to China in terms of population.I went inside.

There he was in green and black.Green suits him.How come I did not notice before.Our eyes met.He said it all and no one but I heard.He paid regards to dad and sat in front of me.We exchanged stuff.I just could not take my eyes off him.I tried hard not to blink as I could not afford to miss even that smallest of moment.I bet he didn't blink either.

I could not blink.She is so beautiful.And yet so simple.I gave her the books.Wings of fire and The White Tiger.Your honor looked, rather stared.He felt he wanted to say something.'Come here it to daddy and he will tell you who the white tiger is!'.I looked away.He left us alone.It was me and her.And those 10 minutes we had together, gave me what I had missed the whole year.And made me stronger for the coming times.There is something about her that I have never felt for anyone else.God bless her on her new venture.May all her dreams come true.And then she was gone.I tried to be strong, all in vain.

Perceptions into play

2011-03-22T02:02:00.000-07:00

Couple of years ago my aunt was travelling by train. There was a group of young boys also sitting in the same compartment.When the train stopped at a station, a little boy crawled through the aisle sweeping it with a broom.That little boy was apparently paralyzed or had polio which was evident from his crawling.His pathetic condition prompted my aunt to give him some money.At this, the boys started giggling which later turned into laughter.

My aunt had no clue why they giggled.She got the answer pretty soon.As the train whistled to move on, that boy stood up and ran outside.Seeing this, the boys burst into laughter and said,"Aunty, aapke paise to gaye(your money is wasted) !".Rather then being saddened , she smiled and said,"Maine paise us bacche ko diye jo apahitch tha, usko nahi jo uth kar bhag gaya ( I gave the money to the kid who was paralyzed, not to the one who ran)". To this, the boys stood silent realizing the perceptions into play.

Also you cannot say that the child's act was wrong.Imagine someone with no family, no education , no home and no job. There can be numerous compelling factors for his unreasonable acts.And these compelling factors can ironically be very reasonable at times.It's a weird group of sentences, but true.Sometimes there is a very thin line between right and wrong.Between truth and lie.What matters is the intention of the action.

Assasination of IWD

2011-03-13T08:15:00.000-07:00

Stage was all set to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the International Women's Day in New Delhi. The day before the grandeur was to be spread, the newspapers were full of events and facilitation functions to be organised for women from various fields.Looking at the large scale celebrations planned for the day, one might say that the seeds of emancipation of women sown by various visionaries like Raja Ram Mohan Rai, were full grown trees now.And certainly these trees had the vision of making evergreen forests out in the arid soil owned by men.

But the auspicious day was marked by the cold-blooded murder of a 20-year old girl by an obsessed jackass in day light at the heart of the city.The guy had been stalking the girl for two-three years and was beaten up earlier his acts.But his one-sided love was too much for him to give up.And ultimately frustrated, he decided to end 'her' life in the name of true love. Now these kind of people think it's the love that drives them to such unprecedented levels of insanity.They are the ones who pollute such a beautiful word.Rather its always lust.Love cannot end in an act of violence at the beloved.

Now the thing to note here is the ease with which he gets the weapon for the killing.Just goes to some black street and sheds just 2000 bucks.Is it that easy these days? That very little amount, is the value of a innocent human life? Where was the law and order when he obtained the weapon? Where was law and order when he shot her from point blank in day light ?

Just by catching hold of the murderer does not mean that they have done their part. They will have to take answer our questions and address the concerns. It's a shame that at the dawn of 100th anniversary of IWD, an obsessed murderer has reminded the nation that our women are not safe.As the white tiger would say,'what a fucking joke!'

She's innocent !

2011-03-01T09:22:00.000-08:00

"मैं तो पहले ही कहती थी, ये कमीनी तो है ही मनहूस इसकी कोंक से एक लड़का नहीं निकला तीन-तीन महारानिया पैदा कर के बैठी है उस समय माँ की बात मान ली होती तुने तो आज पछताना न पड़ता "

And probably this reaction from a mother-in-law is not that disgusting.Cases have been reported where the daughter-in-laws have been killed or tormented to an unbearable extent for something they had not done or intended.For ages, 'bahus' have been blamed for not blessing the family with a boy child.I am sure each one of us is aware of the inhumane repercussions of the same.The innocent girls have been blamed and condemned for nothing.

If only the ignorant people knew that the sex determination of the child is entirely dependent on the sex chromosome from the sperm.The sex chromosome from the ovum has nothing to do with it.Ergo, the father is entirely responsible for the sex of the child.Not the mother.If only.

Lets spread the word to spaces which still echo the sufferings of the innocent mothers.

of finding never land

2011-02-28T04:14:00.000-08:00

I dream of an India,
which is secular,not just on paper,
which is socialist and not capitalist at all,
where the elderly are treated with respect,
and where they don't have to slog till the end,
where the children are treated like children and not cheap labour,
where they get free education,
where women are given the applause they deserve,
and where they are guarded and not raped.

I dream of an India,
where the leaders are selfless,
where people have camaraderie,
where the rich are generous to poor,
and where the spirit of the nation never dies.

Is this like finding never land?

India vs Bharat

2011-02-20T08:01:00.000-08:00

The first decade of the 21st century has seen many highs for India.The social and economic indicators of developments are showing unprecedented levels.Government has implemented many plans to facilitate better transport,communication and health facilities.Environmental concerns are finally given attention courtesy the strict measures of Jairam Ramesh.But most of all these are visible in India and not in Bharat.

The strategy of centralised development has always been talked and the repercussions are known.But the knowledge hasn't helped.A major chunk of the investments made were concerned with the urban areas.Bharat representing all the rural areas is still being neglected.The development of rural areas and the agriculture industry both show alarming concerns.We need to realize that our country's population which is almost 1/6th of world population is showing no signs of slowing down.The government expects a stabilization by 2070.Unless some concrete steps are taken, we will be the most populous country by 2030.A victory that will never be celebrated, but the loss will be celebrated in Beijing.To feed such a huge population the dependence on the food production in the country is going to to increase exponentially.And the shocking number of farmer suicide last year are indicating that no effort has been made to address the concerns of rural areas.

Moreover,because of centralised development of some metro cities, people are moving to these cities which are already over populated. So the need of the hour is to come up with more such cities.The government should encourage the capitalist class to invest in such areas which are yet under developed.This will also create employment opportunities in such places.

We people living in big cities might not realize the plight of people in the villages.Even after more than 60 years of Independence, these places haven't undergone much changes and are not connected with rest of the country.The living conditions are shocking and pathetic.People living there are living a life worse than dogs in the metros.PETA activist say, 'We should treat dogs humanely!'.We need to realize that first we should make sure that humans at these rural places are not treated dogly.

P.S. I have nothing against PETA.

Rang de basanti

2011-02-16T03:42:00.000-08:00

There was a time when the word 'India' meant so much for the the people.It created ripples among the crowd.It meant so much more than a democratic entity under whose jurisdiction we live in.The pre-independence era saw so many visionaries like Dadabhai Naoroji, Mahatma Gandhi, 'raja' Ram Mohan Roy who dreamed of a prosporous and peaceful Swaraj.Then there were extremists like Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Bhagat Singh, Chandrasekhar Azad and many more unsung heroes who sacrificed themselves in pursuit of freedom of their nation and their people.

After Independence, prominent leaders of the Indian National Congress like Pandit Jawahar lal Nehru took the responsibility of the young India in their hands and nurtured it like their own child.The golden bird finally free from the shackles of imperialism was ready to fly high in the modern sky.But little did they know, that the future generations of leaders which were to come, would recapture that golden bird. And on the expense of the commoners the country born with the ideas of socialism, would turn capitalist. And it's not the worse part.The law and order in the country has lost it meaning.

Today, the newspapers are flooded with scams,scandals,brutal killings and what not.And these are the only ones which come into press.This might be just a tiny fraction of the overall chaos.But everyone is silent.Everyone is happy in their little worlds.No one wants to get their hands dirty in all this.They do talk about all this, they do discuss a lot, but they won't do anything about it.What would have happened if the freedom fighters had done the same thing? And after what all they did for this country, they must be real pissed off at the current state of the country looking from up there doubting if their sacrifice was worth it.

The time has come for a similar agitation।Another national movement।But this time the enemy is even more powerful.We have to fight against our own people.The enemy is within us.It's time we all contribute a little to this nation.We should act rather than just complaining.We should change things.Change perceptions.Aware people.Help the poor.Educate the illiterate.And we should always remember that along with Fundamental rights , we do have duties.

"कोई भी देश परफेक्ट नहीं होता, उसे परफेक्ट बनाना पड़ता है! और अगर इतनी ही प्रॉब्लम है, तो बदलो न इस देश को, ये तुम्हारा भी देश है जाके बदलो , पर तुम नहीं करोगे , देश को साफ़ करने में हम 'अपने' हाथ क्यूँ गंदे करे , है न ? "

Rare Gestures

2011-02-13T05:52:00.000-08:00

She is a lovely girl. Simplicity at it's personal best.She is full of life which amazes people.She has this incredible zest and inspires everyone around her.She wants a simple life.She wants to serve the society in some way.She already is, by inspiring masses.She is just unaware. She loves this guy.She dreams of marrying him.But she knows it cannot happen.Some part of her wants this to happen, the other wants to run away from him.'I cannot do this to him, I love him.I want to see him happy.'

He is a gentleman.A gem rather.He also likes life the simple way.He has known this gal for several years now.He admires her.He adores her.Respects her.He is amazed at her spirit of life even when life has been so unfair to her.He loves to spend time with her.He loves to be around just in case she needs anything.He has fallen in love with her.He wants to marry her.But his parents ridicule him on this when they should rather respect him even more.They think he has gone out of his mind.But he has decided to marry her.

She is paraplegic.And he is of the opinion that her being on the wheel-chair doesn't change anything.

How many people can do something like this ? Who would want a handicap companion ? How many of us even care these days about such people ? Forget about doing something for them or showing respect for the least, today such people get crushed by the crowd everyday. It's a shameful truth.

I bow before him.And wish him all the best.

Barbaric Savior

2011-02-11T05:29:00.000-08:00

Manisha Thakur - A 22-year old railway employee and a national level women kabaddi player was shot dead from point blank range by a CRPF jawan in Patna.No, it was not a ambush set up by the CRPF to trap some militant group.Nor where they expecting some naxal activity near by. And no, it was not an accident.The reasons behind this barbaric act are so shocking,disgusting and shameful that it surely marks the lowest point of human behaviour.That CRPF jawan was a stalker,eve-teaser,molester and every nightmare a young girl in mediocre towns of India can think of.And when she tried to fend him off on being asked her phone number, that bastard shot that innocent girl several times.She was declared dead when taken to the hospital.

For such a heinous and inhumane act, even the death sentence would not suffice.He should be put in a recursive loop where he is bought to life after each execution and then hanged again.I know we cannot take the law in our hands. But sometimes blood for blood may not be wrong.That asshole should be shot down with that very weapon in front of the people making a zillion holes in his body.

Unfortunately, we can't even be sure that he will get a death penalty.But we are sure of one thing that our judiciary will take it's sweet time to deliver the verdict and probably by that time that jawan won't be 'jawan' anymore.

May god give her family and friends the support they deserve.

The Pride Puller

2011-02-02T08:17:00.000-08:00

Delhi is flooded with people. They all look the same from a distance. But it's only when you decide to be a part of it, you get to see the different ones. Those who might not be as fortunate as you are, but surely there is something about them which makes you feel low in spite of having everything.

Usually I prefer to walk over other alternatives of locomotion Specially when the place I am going is not far.But that day, I was a little weak in my knees and ergo decided to take a rickshaw. The city has abundance of every entity when it comes to people.And just when I showed signs of wanting a rickshaw, they sprouted from each corner and crouched towards me like a predator. Amongst their annoying noises, my eyes where struck on the one at the far end.I moved towards him now realizing that he only has one arm.I asked him if he was willing to take me.He agreed and said," Dus rupaye lunga Sir...Isse kam nahi!".I smiled. I wouldn't have negotiated if he had even said fifty.On the way, i admired the way he controlled it in such traffic with one hand.I asked," Ek haath se handle karne me dikkat hota hoga aapko?".

"Aadat ho gya Sir.Upar wale ka yahi marzi tha.Bachpan se hi mera ek hi haath tha.Amma kehti thi ki mera ye ek hi haath kaafi hai sabke liye aur main has padta tha", he said.He was laughing and my eyes were wet."Main aisa tha iske liye mera baap mujhe road pe bhikh mangne ko bitha deta tha.Par apne ko nahi jama.Jab baap se lamba hua to main chod diya wo sab.Sala khud kamayenge mehnat ka, kuch bhi karke, par sala bhikh nahi mangne ka tha".

I simply had no words then.I wanted to do something for him.But could only think of giving some extra to what he said,"Apun kya bola tha Sir, bhikh nahi maagne ka tha".He took what he said earlier and returned the rest.He turned to leave.I stood there for a while watching him go.I stood there tamed by his pride.

It's their India too

2011-01-26T02:03:00.000-08:00

Facts say that around 4000 students from North-East come to Delhi every year to pursue college education and employment.If you are a resident of Delhi near the University Campuses then you will promptly agree. Besides these residential areas, they are very popular in shops and malls looking for beautiful and courteous associate buyers and attendants.

Now the plight of these extremely fair north-eastern Indians is that local people see them as a different breed altogether. They call them 'Chinky' .They make fun of them , tease the girls, avoid socializing with them and what not.The girls are often at the recieving end.Some Hindu extremists put the blaim on them for their lifestyles and dressing sense.Such extremists should be hanged upside down and spanked for eternity.Ergo these communities keep a low profile and keep it to themselves. They prefer not to mingle with the local crowd who on the other hand cannot stop staring and smirking.All this eventually leads to forced conservatism,racism and hatred.

We raise our voices so high when we hear or read about racial comments or attacks on our relatives or fellow Indians in other countries specially in the U.S and Australia.We criticize the government officials for not taking necessary actions. But aren't we doing the same thing to these people from North-East? Don't they deserve to be treated normally ?

This might not concern us and we might not understand the seriousness of their plight. But it does affect them in a big way. And our normal behaviour towards them might mean so much to them.Through that only, they will feel at home.It's their India too.

P.S. I think most of us are just jealous.Of their beautiful hair ,flawless skin and sparkling complexion :D

New Moon

2011-01-22T10:47:00.000-08:00

'That moon amidst the stars is so pretty.Even with the scars.The stars are perhaps jealous of her glow and shy away all twinkly. She is the queen of the night.That moon is so pretty.But my sweetheart is prettier", he thought. He was sitting on a really old and questionable chair at the terrace.The terrace was what he really liked when he agreed to rent a room in that building.It seemed over-priced at the first place but given the independent floor, a gigantic terrace, embracing winds and the soothing peace of mind, he was happy.

He sat all alone at the terrace missing his better half. The romantic moonlight taking the nostalgia of their times together to unprecedented levels of anxiety. All the good times they had together although ephemeral, had casted eternal memories which they always cherish.But it was one of those days when he was too vulnerable.He closed his eyes trying to recapture those moments.Rather to re-live those moments.He did succeed but the plan back fired.He realized that it has been so long.It felt like centuries have passed by.

He could not hold the tears any longer.His eyes red.His soul desperate for his mate.And then he heard her voice.He jumped out of his chair looking in all directions knowing that it wasn't true.He heard her again. It was coming from the skies.It was the moon.'Think of the coming times when you will have me.Think of the days when all i would do is to love you.Think of our beautiful home and think of our dreams.I want you to be strong in these desperate times.For me',said the new moon.

He was still crying.But the tears where of happiness and of the coming times.

Simple is beautiful

2011-01-15T01:30:00.000-08:00

So many flavours out there,
various colours,
different tastes,
baskets, cones and cornettos,
Still I can't get over Vanilla.

So many songs out there,
hard rock or metal,
rap, jazz and pop,
Still can't get over acoustic soft numbers.

So many smart phones,
ipads and androids,
touchscreen,wi-fi and video calls,
Still I can't get over Nokia 1100.

To me, simple is beautiful.

Crash

2010-12-20T22:23:00.000-08:00

It was one of those days when darkness dominated the moon light.There was something vicious about the air, the devilish air.One could sense the approaching chaos with that colossal momentum.There was silence all around, awaiting the inception.

Rajeev came back home from work.His parents awaited him for dinner.They all sat together in the dinning room discussing the all day events in every one's life, criticizing the government officials,mocking the zillion scams that surfaced lately, praising Sachin for his gigantic achievement, expressing disgust for Television shows like 'Rakhi ka Insaaf','Big Switch' and blah blah. Rajeev's dad, was a retired teacher.Ironically the everyday moderator to their discussions was very quite today.Rajeev noticed the irrational silence."What's the matter dad? You all right?", he asked. His dad just nodded in affirmation.But his face gave away everything.That something was bothering him from inside, that something was happening to him and that he could sense what was going to happen.Rajeev soon got the answer.His dad complained of acute chest pain and his left hand suddenly was immobile.All signs of a cardiac arrest.He panicked,asked her mother to hold him, called for an ambulance.

The time when the ambulance arrived it was already 15 long minutes gone.They shifted him into the ambulance .Rajeev was furious by the delay caused and shouted at them with an intensity that will convinced them that his blood had reached the boiling temperature.But the ward boy and nurse were used to such reactions from the kins of the patient and casually said,"Itna traffic hota hai Sir, hum kya karega ?".By this time, his dad was almost unconscious. The nurse suggested to hurry to the hospital otherwise this would go really ugly.They left the house. Rajeev was holding his mother who could not control herself and broke down."It will be all right mother, keep faith".He was really being strong at this. But somewhere deep down he feared that no one was there to back him.He asked his close friends and relatives to reach hospital directly.Every second stretched to a thousand miles and all he could hear was the dying heart beat of his father. He held his father's hand.He had hope.He was not crying.

They stopped at a huge crossroads where on a normal day you would require a minimum of 10 minutes.But then he quickly realized that this was an ambulance and they had the right to breach through.But when he looked outside, there wasn't any space.There were millions of vehicles ahead of them. The road was jam-packed and there was no scope of movement.He looked at his dad and sensed that there wasn't enough time.He got out of the ambulance."i beg you to make way, my father is dying..", he shouted out loud to every vehicle in front of the ambulance.His voice getting thicker and weaker.His desperate moves inspired a couple of people to move. But even if people wanted, they had no space to move.It was all messed up.His heart felt heavy, for the first time he had tears in his eyes.And they were blood red.He didn't give up, and somehow the ambulance reached the front where they were eventually made to halt by the traffic police.

"We cannot allow any vehicle through, the PM's convoy is on a move!", the traffic policeman said pushing Rajeev away.

"I have a dying father in that ambulance and I need to take him to the hospital right now and I don't fucking care if some damn minister is taking his family on a joy ride to attend some rich ass hole's daughter's wedding ! We are going through, you have no right over a person's life and neither does the PM!"

"I am afraid we will have to arrest you in that case ...", a senior policeman shouted.

"Fuck You!".

Rajeev signaled the ambulance to go through. But they were too many of them to stop the ambulance.Rajeev's mother came out to stop him fighting with the officials. Rajeev asked his mother to sit beside his father and not to come out.A couple of other poeple joined him is his protest.It turned out there was another ambulance way behind which had a pregnant woman with complications.And couple of people were on their way to the airport who would surely miss their flight now.Finally after 20 minutes of drama and chaos the PM passed by and the traffic was let loose.Rajeev was quite now.He eyes were red and swollen.His was angry and there was no way to vent out the same.They reached the hospital where his father was declared dead.

"You should have hurried. A couple of minutes matter a lot in such cases.We are sorry for your loss!", said the doctors.His mother completely broke down.His relatives where there to console her.Rajeev was shattered.He fell on his knees.Not saying anything.His eyes, overwhelmed with tears of bias,of unfairness, of feeling violated and exploited for being a commoner.He stood there helpless,crying and crashed.

Up, in the air !

2010-12-15T23:30:00.000-08:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, as your safety is our utmost concern, our flight attendant Sofia will brief you on the safety features of this aircraft.

Enters Sofia.Starts the demo.Even though everyone is aware of the safety instructions, all the passengers just cannot take their eyes off her.And amidst the demo, everyone is occupied with their own mind games.Lets sneak-a-peek into their minds.

Passenger 1A : She is so damn hot. I think I am getting sun-burns.Sigh.

Passenger 2C : Man, look at the way she's staring at me. Even smiling, as if all this is just for me.Sigh.I think I should smile back. OMG, she smiled again. Dude, you are so gonna get laid tonight....woohoo!

Passenger 3D : So what is it in her that guys like? I still don't get it! (trying to hide the obvious pretension )

Passenger 6A : She is beautiful.But she looks nervous.Is it these scars? Shall i tell her how i got these scars.Why so Serious, Sofia?

Passenger 7D : Oh... Your soft hands Sofia! Yeah...Right there...Right there ! Sigh.

Passenger 9C : Oh, I wish I was a cute little kid, then she would definitely come to me, and then kiss me, pamper me... Oh, Man ! Why do we need to grow the fuck up? Sigh.

Passenger 11A : Aaja aaja, main hoon pyar tera ....
Passenger 11B : Who the hell is singing ?

Passenger 13C : My god! Wish my wife was like that.Sigh.
Passenger 13D : That bitch! She sure knows how to woo rich men like my husband. Look at him lusting for her.What is so special in her ? I still don't get it(trying to hide the obvious pretension).

And inside Sofia's head, there is just music.Loud Music,'..I am too sexy for you...main tere haath na aani ...na na na na.....'

Where is that damn white rabbit ?

2010-12-05T10:50:00.000-08:00

Are we really living our lives by ourselves ? Are we?

We seem to be driven by something most of the time.Focus on the following lines.We take birth.Join School. Pass almost 14 years without any clue loaded with books and homework and the pressure to outperform others so that our parents can brag in the society,their offices and where ever they go. Then comes a crucial choice.AIIMS vs IIT.We slog and slog like pigs without even knowing what the fuck we are slogging for.May be for the fame. And if we don't get through, there are zillion private colleges to absorb us.In those four years, mostly people learn to use BitComet and then brag about their quotidian downloads.Then comes the choice between a job or higher studies.We just do what people around us do.Then comes IT/Govt. We just do what people around us do.Eventually to find out that no one is happy with what they are doing.

Whom to blame? It's certainly not us.The culprit is the education system.The ignorance about various unconventional opportunities.The system never gives us time to explore ourselves.We never spend time with ourselves.We never try to learn what we love.We are always in that hurry.Running after things we don't even know or want, but just because everyone else is.How do expect to be happy after achieving them? You never actually craved for them. Your purpose is something else and unless the purpose is fulfilled, you won't be happy.

But people find various other resorts. Some people drink and smoke and raise the toast to the fact that the grass is always greener on the other side.They try to convince themselves that whatever they do, this feeling of satisfaction will not come.They do succeed momentarily, but it comes back every now and then to haunt them.Some people just take off their frustration cribbing about their lives coming up with reason why they can't change the way things are.Some people drown in sadism seeking joy from failures of those who at least make an attempt.

The way things are going, one might wonder if this world is eventually a computer program. And if that is true, then where the hell is my Morpheus ? Where the fuck is Trinity? And where is that damn white rabbit?

But then we will only find the answers if we try harder.Perseverance will eventually pay off.Try out different things.Don't be scared of anything.This is the time to take chances.Because if you don't, and after like 10 years you meet someone who did, you will regret it like anything.It will kill you.Literally.

Whose life is it anyway ?

2010-11-29T03:11:00.000-08:00

Euthanasia\Mercy killing\Assisted Suicide is one of the most controversial concepts where it's difficult to put your vote on one side and to criticize the other.What I fail to understand is that if suicides or suicidal attempts are not criminalized in any jurisdiction worldwide, then why are we trying to avoid legalizing euthanasia.Having said that, i can imagine how difficult it would be to ensure complete control over this right. There would be cases where you would suspect foul play, but we cannot deny how important is this to look into the need to legalize euthanasia.
There was a time when committing suicide or suicidal acts was a crime.The only reason it was removed was that if there is a survivor, punishing him would only kill any hopes of coming back to normal life.So if suicide is not a crime, why is making someones suicide peaceful and painless, a crime in almost all states of the world except for Netherlands, Belgium, Washington, Montana and few more.

Then again there are many challenges to legalize it.Many other questions with unclear answers. Should it be only for people having terminal illness? Or for poor and helpless too?What about traumatized people with mental illness? Should we consider children euthanasia as well? Can we have a control over the process, especially in India, where the quotidian word count for 'Corruption' is increasing exponentially? And many more. But then how would we find answers to all these if we don't talk about it or discuss it.

I am sure many of us would see it as a cowardly act to escape the pain.The easiest way out of this hell-hole.But have you ever seen anyone who is/was terminally ill.Have you seen the daily routine of someone suffering from cancer or someone who is paraplegic.Have you met a person having excruciating pains for which there is no remedy.I bet we can't even imagine living a minute of their lives.There have been requests from a mother to kill her suffering infant, from a father his daughter,from a man for his women. They all do not seek relief for themselves.They just cannot see their loved ones in pain.They just cannot.

So if a person who has given up from the unbearable pain and the fact that this misery is going to be his life forever, requests for euthanasia, why should the government have to right to stop him? Isn't this his call to make? Isn't this his life ? Or is this his parents life who gave birth to him ? Or is this his wife's life who just wants him to live so that she can have her red hair-line for some more time ? Whose life is it anyway?

I just want you to try.

2010-11-19T05:22:00.000-08:00

Son : I want to marry this girl I love, she's not Marathi though!

Mother : What are you saying...Is she the same girl you told me about long back....I asked you that very moment to dial down the relationship and not to make it serious... why didn't you listen to me....no one in our family has done something like this before..this is not what we do...look at your brothers for example, they all did arrange marriages .... why do you want us to look bad in front of everyone ...

Son : I want to get a Tattoo,the logo of this football team I love!

Mother : If you like the club so much, just watch the matches and support...why do you have to get that disgusting piece of dirt of your skin....it's not a good thing ...no one in our family ever did something like this...how big will that be? ... Why don't you just get a sticker or something...

Son : I want to quit this job I am doing, I hate it to the core!

Mother : What? Job is like that only... it's really difficult to get good jobs ...don't do it... what will you do...look for government jobs...it's the best for you...it's very stable ....look for government jobs ...government jobs...

Sometimes it's really difficult for us to make someone else understand what we want, why we want and how we truly feel about that.I know for all the reasons she gives, she wants only good things happening to me, she would not want to see me take chances,she would not want me to take risks.

But mother, she is the only girl in my life.It has been years of knowing each other.It has been years of understanding each other.Take my words when I say,"No one can love me more, no one can care for me more and no one will make me more happy, than her.I love her". How does it make any difference if she cannot speak our language. How does it make any difference if the stars do not agree.Why do you listen to the stars and not your own son ? And what do you love more, my happiness or others acceptance of my actions?

But mother,I have this strange connection with football...something deep....there is this adrenaline which creeps in ... some irrational exuberance... I so wanted so play this game.But sadly, I couldn't and I can't. But watching this team playing, I feel involved.I cannot tell you why this happens but it happens.Then this deep connection breathes like that thunderous wind.I want that mark on me. I so badly do. I would be so happy.Don't you want to see me like that?

But mother,This job kills me from inside..makes me feel so low..I wish I had known what i want long ago, but i didn't.I will find what i love to do, I will pursue what i like.But I need you to be brave too, why do you fear my decisions.What I ask for, is trust.

Mother, I know it's really difficult for you to understand all this, but why can't you do this for me....without any questions ...without any doubts and without any worries.

And I would understand if you couldn't.I just want you to try.

Like a Lover!

2010-10-24T13:43:00.000-07:00

She messaged,' You have got mail!',
I smiled, like a child,
waiting for his gift.

What did she send ?
A card, poem or prose,
I can't wait anymore.
Cruised home so fast,
on thoughts so lost.

It's her pictures.
I smiled, like a lover.
Look at her hair, so curvy,
and her eyes so enticing,
her glow,her presence so divine.

It's her PICTURES!
I wept, like a lover.
It's been so long dear.
So damn long!
But I believe things will change,
our time will come,
and till then,
I'll wait, like a lover.

The Silent worker

2010-10-17T01:43:00.000-07:00

We often gossip on the rich & famous about what they recently tweeted, whom they are dating lately and blah blah. We seldom talk about commoners who are not that fortunate.About people who question their fate everyday when they wake up and realize that it was not a bad dream but the hard truth.It's actually they who need our attention, our concern and much more.But the world is full of irony.

There is person I have immense respect for. For his tolerance, persistence and the lively spirit within him.He's retired now.Although he keeps himself occupied with some other work.Keeps him going.His wife, met an accident around five years ago.She was the only person in that bus to get severely injured.She has been on the bed since.Sometimes we cannot explain why bad things happen to us. And others simply can never feel what we feel when we are hurt.But everything happens for a reason.We, as humans are too dumb to understand the big picture.Sometimes it happens so that we can learn a lesson.Sometimes , to test your strength.Most times, you cannot decode why.But that does not mean it happened in vain.Stop looking for that answer.That will come to you when the time is right.You should do your karma without expectations.And why do you say there is no ray of hope? If you think about it, the ray of hope is an entity which comes into existence from our own actions.It's like a reaction. You can always create one because without it, life becomes dull.

For the last five years, he has looked after her.He has comforted her like a mother does to her newly born child.Cleaning her everyday, making her sit on the wheel-chair, moving her back to the bed every night.It takes immense will power to do this everyday for such a long time.I just cannot imagine someone so strong at heart.This was no one's fault.But often they break into tears. She too, has been so strong since. She tries to do all that she can. She has got the kitchen slab lowered so that she can cook from her wheel-chair.She moves here and there cleaning the house.When he used to go to office, she would even polish his shoes sitting on the wheel chair. It's amazing to see someone do all this sitting on the wheel chair.

For him I want to say, be firm.That's what your name means.For both of you, I have immense respect.We all are with you in this, you are not alone.This is to all such silent workers.Respect.

Singing in the Rain

2010-09-06T07:25:00.000-07:00

Little drops of heaven,
embrace her body,
her eyes closed,hands wide,
she looks at the sky,
'So generous is the silver line'.

I envy those drops,
lingering down her face.
and this beautiful rain,
cuddling my darling grace.

Her smile, lights up the dark.
Her dance,ignites spark.

She turns to me,
calls with her eyes.
I run to her,
to be the blind side.
Hands in hand,souls overlap.
We dance to the rain,
singing, in the rain.

I go high with ecstasy,
oblivious to the pain,
only to realize,
it's just me and my desolation,
singing, in the rain.

My Dad

2010-09-01T10:43:00.000-07:00

When I try to go back in time and recollect the oldest memory I have of him, I see a very serious, strict and honest Mathematician plainly dressed in formals teaching a bunch of kids. He had a passion for the subject and that's the only other thing he loved besides me and my mother.He was a man of principles.He didn't talk much though. And ergo, I didn't know many things about him that he should have told me long back.

The story that amazes the most me is his bicycle trip from Gwalior to Srinagar.Hell yeah, me not kidding.It's true to the core.He and couple of his school friends decided to make the most of the summer vacations.They planned a road-trip to Srinagar from Gwalior which rounds up to 1200 kilometers.Easier said than done.Sometimes i wonder how did he convince my grandparents. So, after everyone was on-board, they started their dream run. Every one in the gang was pretty excited.It didn't last very long though. Most of his friends gave up when they reached Agra which is like 100 odd kilometers from Gwalior.They returned to base camp.But i still cannot believe that my dad and one of his best friend Srikanth, decided to complete what they dreamed. They moved on. Cycling all day long and then haulting at some random house in some random village.In those days, people treated guests like gods. So it was easy to knock any door for food or shelter.Imagine doing the same today.

Keeping the momentum high, they finally reached Srinagar. I remember he showing me a certificate which he got from the Governor of Srinagar appreciating their amazing road-trip. They were also interviewed on the Radio which was quite a thing in those days. When I asked him how much money did Grandpa give to him when he started for Srinagar.Fifty rupees, he said. I spend the same amount when I take an Auto from office to my residence.Changing times.

Once I was talking to him about Jawaharlal Nehru. The topic came up as I was preparing to play Nehru in the Fancy Dress competition next day in school. He shocked me saying that he met Nehru once when he was in school. He said he was fortunate to get into this bunch of kids who were going to Delhi to see the parade on republic day. They all went their hoping to get a glance of that great leader.Disappointed then, they all decided to stand outside his residence. And when his vehicle arrived, Nehru seeing these many children awaiting him, came out to them and greeted them. That would have been some moment for him.

After completing his graduation, he went to the Vivekananda temple in Kanyakumari.There he used to teach Yoga and do a lot of social work. They used to provide food and a place to stay. He then went to the places in Assam and West Bengal for the same. I recently came across a book authored by a person who was then heading all such operations in Kanyakumari. It a collection of letters that he wrote to several people in his tenure. In one of the letters he wrote to my grandfather. It was more of a reply to my grandfather's letter who had requested them to let my father attend his sister's wedding.To my surprise, he was not willing to let my father go. He even praised the fact that my father didn't ask anything to him regarding this.I guess he was impressed by the commitment level.

My dad then after a couple of years, left that place. He developed this interest in teaching and wanted to pursue that as social work but the organization didn't accept his proposal.And given the pressure to start a family, he moved to a place Katni and joined a school.And then spent all his life teaching.Not just the subject.I always felt he was never after the money. He just wanted enough to fulfill our needs.He has given me whatever I asked for.I remember seeing him really excited at the thought of building a house of our own. He was so into making rough sketches of the plot, how the rooms will be and the garden of course. It was for this reason that he started taking tuition's as he realized his dream would require some money.For a couple of year he worked really hard for this. And then his dream started taking shape. We used to go there in the evening to water it everyday. He was so happy then. So were we.I was really proud of our house that he had build. He used to go there everyday. He always wanted to move there permanently when he retires.

But sadly that never happened.He was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma.A blood cancer. In spite of finding that out at an early stage, in spite of trying for almost two years, in spite of numerous sleepless nights which my mother spent, in spite of her giving away everything, in spite of we doing whatever we could have done, he left us. I had so many dreams for us. I wanted to give him all the happiness he deserved. He had worded so hard all these years so that i could have all that i asked him for. And when it was my turn to do all that, he left us. I am sorry dad, for what all I could not do. I will take good care of her. You need not worry.

Rest in peace.

You Only Live Once!

2010-08-30T10:09:00.000-07:00

Or may be you come back six more times as the books say, but you don't get to bring along any memories from your previous births.Given that, 'you only live once' holds good to me. You just have one chance to fulfill yours dreams.But then there are compromises to be made. Some of them you never understand or accept. You just succumb to them. You do sacrifices. You let others have their way. You have responsibilities. You have people to look after.

Amidst all this, sometimes you feel lost. You feel that your dreams are drifting away from you.
Those mighty winds of misfortune keep on pushing them away.You try your best to reach them and grab them with your fist only to find yourself ambushed by those shackles. You feel helpless as you are vulnerable to them. You loose track of your dreams and you let those mighty winds beat you over and over again. They mock you like uprooting a weak sapling.

So what if all the wishes in your bucket list don't seem to take shape. That does not imply that you cry your ass-off and forget about the ones which are still alive. You got to bring yourself up again. You have to walk that extra mile.People complain about not achieving things.Even I did once to a friend.His simple words taught me a lot.All he said was,'You are still alive!".

All you need to do is to believe. That your dream is your destiny. That these road-blocks you can overcome.That you have what it takes. And even if some might not understand your actions, they surely will.Someday.But you have to remember this one thing, you only live once. Once you realize this, there won't be any questions or shadows of uncertainty. You will know what to do, where to proceed. You will makes those sacrifices. You will handle those responsibilities. You will look after those people. And you will fulfill your dreams.

Chocolates again

2010-08-24T09:51:00.000-07:00

Chocolates again!
I wondered,
sure she loves them but,
Chocolates again ?

Want to bring her the stars,
and the moon.
The blue sky and the lagoon.
Want to take her to an Island,
full of love and balloons,
shaped liked a heart and maroon.

Want to hold her hands,
amidst this first rain,
and dance to it's tune.
Want to loose myself to her,
I already have, already had.

Want to tell her she means,
the world to me.
Her dreams, her desires.
lay the path for me.
O lord, pass her sorrows to me,
my joys to her,
keep her smile alive,forever.

But I know what she seeks,
It's a promise indeed.
And with one hand on the Bible,
I give her, her need.

Never will my smile,
play hide and seek.
It'll stick to my face,
and forever it will be!
Never will my hand,
let go off hers.
Eternal would be,
her bonding with me!
Never you'll see a day,
when i hadn't loved you more.
Never will you see.Never will you see.

But fate it seems,
kicks me when i am down.
With such impact, such magnitude,
that my knees go blank.
Still I'll keep my word,
keep my promise good.
If ever you fall, i'll hold you tight.
ever you stop,guide you right,
ever you cry,make you smile,
and ever you call, i'll run thousand miles.

Did she like the gift?
I wondered,
Or should it have been,
like the way it has been,
Chocolates again?

Happy Birthday Aku!

Dev D

2010-08-16T10:46:00.000-07:00

Feel like throwing up,
drinking to the last drop,
of that magical water.
They say it'll take away my pain.
i doubt though.
Look at the way it shines,
and it calls to me.
Over and over again.
Don't know, how long I can resist?
This very temptation.

Feel like running away,
far from this crowd.
from these questions,
and these sad answers,
and the truth that,
there is only one love.
Can't believe it's true.
damn stars and damn astrology.

Feel like crying,
to my last breath,
crying out loud, O Lord,
why did you do this?
It'll break me inside out.

Feel like giving up,
going to the top of that,
black dark lonely hill.
And then,
embracing the blue sky,
spreading my wings, like a free kite!

Feel like Dev D!

The way of life

2010-08-01T23:02:00.000-07:00

It's so difficult,
to let it go.
To accept what is true,
and to bear that pain,
of separation.

Sure they made it clear,
but the heart, our foolish heart,
never accepted.
And how could it?
That way, we had hope,
we had dreams, we had reasons,
to smile.

But that's the way of life,
at least you get to hold on,
to those memories.
We'll keep him alive,
in our hearts.

She was there with me,
but needed her by my side.
She talked to me,
but craved her beautiful eyes.

But that's the way of life,
just the way of life!

SCL, Hyderabad

2010-06-13T22:23:00.000-07:00

For those who are not with Deloitte, Impact day is our annual community service day. On this day, all Deloitte professionals irrespective of their service line, service area or the post at which they are working, have to participate across the world.There are various threads in this league for doing community service which you can lead or participate.Some are really exciting and some just look that way.Unfortunately, mine was the later.It could have been fun if not for my friend Abhineet who tricked me out of a interesting thread in which you were supposed to take a group of orphan to the Hyderabad Zoo.And I still don't know why I selected 'Heritage Hyderabad'. Isn't it a fancy name for a thread? I just thougth I would get to go to some cool mueseum and all.All dreams shattered, I was allocated the State Central Library.

One good thing I did was to get someone else in this stupid thread and was victorious to convince Binu into it.Now I had someone to share the frustration.On that day,had to get up at 6 in the morning because we had to reach office by 7.That's another crappy thing about Impact Day. Why do we need to get up early on a weekend so early? Can't we start at 10 or 11 for that matter.? I knew it wouldn't be worth it and I was right. The buses from the office started at 9.Please note the 2 hour delay. Had these 2 hours been used to extend our sleep, we would have done some efficient community service.Anyways, after reaching office, we .collected the essentials they were giving to all the volunteers.It had some crappy Gujarati crap, a muffin, an energy drink and a bottle of water.Killing time became so difficult.I wonder if it's difficult to small talk in the morning when you have been forcibly taken away from that wonderful dream in which you were romancing with the love of your life on some lonely island amongst the cool breeze and blue currents.

Finally, we started and eventually we reached there around 10.They road trip to the SCL was fun though. Courtesy the world cup fever, we decided to play a football quiz which Binu hosted. The contestants were myself and his friend Kadar.As far my knowledge in Football goes, it starts and ends at Old trafford.I can tell few more on EPL but 'all the world cups' was not my cup of tea.So as I expected, I was trailing 8-0. It became really embarrassing at this point and I suggested that the quiz should be about Football and not just the world-cup. That indirectly meant that questions related to EPL should be there so that I can save myself from being clean sheeted. Somehow the host was convinced and I put up a mind-blowing return performance.Although I lost 16-14 later.

We reached the place.The building was actually a heritage one, really old and all. I was shocked to see what the thread leads had in mind for us as the first task.It was to take a group picture.Duh! Shouldn't be the last thing after doing the community work we were supposed to do. So everyone suddenly acquired pace to find a good place so that they would look good in the picture. After that, people were waiting for instructions from the leads but they themselves seemed lost. Most of the people didn't do a thing for the first hour after the photo shoot.Then, we were directed towards some old building which was the library's office were we were supposed to place new tube lights in place. When we reached there, the electrician was himself was having a hard time.So we had to move to some other place.We were again unemployed.Then we were made to clean the books and the shelf.That actually felt like doing something which had value.We three cleaned a whole big shelf with more than thousand books.After that we short-listed some books among millions of ruined ones which can be useful and which can be scanned in the digital library. The last task was to transfer books from some storage to the front room which had like 30 of us forming a human chain.That felt good.You know what, we always look for instant gratification be it anything. But just the thought that even if our efforts at some point of time influence some reader to pick up some book, that's worth it.I was happy at the end.

But I was disgusted with one thing that happened there. It's a shame that the people who went there for community service were also playing a role to pollute it.Among us were people who had their lunch and left all the stuff and plastic bottles right at the entrance of the library. What a shame! At first i was reluctant but seeing one friend of mine picking somebody Else's leftovers, i too joined him.This was all about SCL and about a day well spent.

Hyderabad Auto-Expo

2010-06-09T22:38:00.000-07:00

First things first.This post is not about some Auto-Expo taking place at Hyderabad showcasing some ridiculously expensive cars with gorgeous models on them. This post is rather about something much more important.Something much more real to the middle class.This is dedicated to all the Auto-wallah's of Hyderabad who have a unique style of their own and operate only at their terms and conditions unlike any other place in India. They undoubtedly rule the public transport sector in Hyderabad specializing in Hi-Tech city and nearby places.They are no ordinary human beings.They are the real Action Anna's of Tollywood which just couldn't get into movies.But they are in no way behind the heroes on screen.They have attitude, style,pride. And in-meter they don't trust. It has been a year now, so wanted to share a couple of experiences.

Once upon a time, when we were new hires, new to Hyderabad as well, went to see a late night movie show. To go back home, we hired an Auto and told him the address. He quoted a price which seemed reasonable. Actually I was surprised, as at such late hours they used to quote double the usual fare. Anyways, we got in the Auto-cum-Planet M-cum-Roller coaster.We soon reached a place which was half-way our home but the name of the place was similar to our location.Suddenly he applied brakes, which felt more stronger than a standard hydraulic brake of a car.He stopped and asked us to get down.We told him that this was not the place we asked him to drop.We might have been a bit rude saying that but his reaction was outrageous.He threw us out of the vehicle and demanded money. We tried to explain to him that this was not the place we meant.But he was repeatedly said only on dialogue,"Saab, gareeb aadmi ka kabhi majak nahi udhana!".We said we ain't giving him any unless he drops us at the right address.He started to call people from his mobile.We also acted to dial some numbers and call people just to counter his move.Then we threatened him to go to police.I don't what changed his mind but he went back and sat in the auto.We also went assuming that all the drama is over now.We had no clue that it had just started.When he finally dropped us at the right address, he demanded more money. We denied to give anything extra than what we decided. He then said the same thing again,"Saab, gareeb aadmi ka kabhi majak nahi udhana!".And again and again.When he stopped, he threw the money we gave him on the street and said," Aap loga idharich ruko.... main batata hoon aapko ki gareeb aadmi kya kar sakta hai!".Then he turned his auto in full throttle and speeded away from us.We decided to walk to home.Then suddenly we hear a noise increasing constantly.It was the same Auto.He stopped right in front of us blocking the way.He was not looking at us, just raising the accelerator again and again.I was so in fumes at that time but decided to give him at least what we decided on.I put the money in the Auto and the rushed back like a lightning saying," Fir kabhi idhar mat dikhana saab." And I gave him the finger which he might not have interpreted correctly.

I really appreciate people using the public transport options anywhere.It is one of the key factors to control traffic and pollution. But I guess people use public transport till they have a vehicle of their own.That's ok. But in case you dont, travelling in a shared auto/bus/train would be a better option than travelling all alone in a private one.Anyways, people will do what they want and what they can pay for and won't care about the damn problems.Sad but true.So from our location, people like to take private auto's to Hi-tech at a over priced rate.Ergo, a couple of auto wallah's shave formed a gang.They don't allow any other Auto to pick up people from this locality.I have seen many outsiders being threatened by these local boo-hockies.Such low have fallen the heights of humanity.Another interesting ride was when I was returning from office in an Auto and the driver was a Muslim.So we started talking and somehow the talk started about Islam.Suddenly he went all impulsive and was trying to rope me in.He said you should also consider Islam and then gave numerous examples.I told him that I believe in one God. He said, exactly his point, Allah.He went on and on.Even after reaching the destination, he talked for 15 Min's.I somehow closed the argument.It was a fun debate though. So, there are many more such encounters with this third kind.The thing is, you cannot escape them, people's lives have so much dependency on them. You cannot cast them out.They are after all the spirit of the city.

P.S They also accept Sodexo coupons :D

Osman, Bike and Bang!

2010-06-06T00:06:00.000-07:00

It all started at R's place .She invited a couple of friends for dinner at home. She has been planing this since long.I got a call at 8 pm on Saturday night.R said she has been trying the number since morning.'The food is ready and everyone will be here soon, you should rush'.I told myself,'Lagta hai jyada khana ban gaya, that's why she called at the eleventh hour'.Just kidding, R. So, the food was so so so delicious.It has been a while since I had Ghar Ka Khana..Burp! Hat's off to the chef's R,A and V. Although V only helped in cutting vegetables and all that jazz, but hey that's equally real.

So, we were just talking. The usual office gossip.Cruel managers, extended hours and screwed up weekends.Suddenly V proposed a trip to Osman Sagar lake early in the morning. I have been wanting to go there for quite some time now.But that night I was supposed to work for some office work which just couldn't wait till Monday.Damn. Anyways, I decided that I'll definitely chip in if they actually go there.We all decided to leave at 5:30 am in the morning.They booked a cab and I volunteered to take one of them on my bike.

We started sharp IST half an hour late.RR was with me on the bike and rest were in the cab.It was a real nice feeling to drive in such nice weather at such speeds.I never had gone that fast before.Then the cab stopped at a turning and as I was following it, I too stopped by bike on the road side.A car was coming from behind at a moderate pace, but rather than slowing down it attained full throttle, lost balance and banged my bike.RR who was sitting behind somehow reacted quick enough to jump away.And I, just could not do anything. I just closed my eyes.I felt, this was it.The damn car was coming straight at us.There was no going back.I got thrown away with the bike.And somehow, I escaped without any major injuries.Just cuts and bruises.As I write this, that picture is still haunting me and I just can't believe how lucky we were to escape this.Thank you, God.

When I got up, I felt my head shaking a bit.The only thing on my mind at that point was to get the damn driver out of that freaking car and beat the hell out of him. Unfortunately, driver was a lady.Somehow I cannot speak to a girl in a high tone.I had no clue what to say to her.Still, I managed a couple of harsh lines.And then a few more. She was almost in tears.What do you expect? And then came those very popular words.'I am really very sorry'. At least we were fortunate that we survived all in good and the bike was also not damaged badly.I let her go.But I must say, I am still in shock.That was really very scary.

Then since the place we were going was not so far now, and our injuries weren't anything serious, we decided to move on.We reached the place soon.I had google-imaged this place before.And the first look was exactly what I was expecting.No doubt, it is the best place in Hyderabad.A beautiful lake with rocks all around and totally isolated from the city.There were hardly any people there.We decided to go down into the wild.V and RM were occupied in photography all this time.A had a hard time with the rocks.Her every other step on the adjoining rock was like conquering Mount Everest.A also made numerous attempts to throw stones in the lake to a respectable distance, but all in vain.Some of her throws nearly made a U-turn.It was fun watching these kids climbing rocks, throwing pebbles, posing weird postures for the FB and Orkut clicks. I on the other hand, was totally subdued. It was difficult to get out of that shock. Though I loved sitting alongside the water.And the wind sure made it fun.If you are fed up of the crowded streets of the city and the countless vehicles making whinny noises all day long, this is the place to find peace.

So not fair

2010-06-02T05:05:00.000-07:00

How easily, sometimes we utter,
"That's so not fair!".
How often, we complain,
"Why me God? Why me?".
But how seldom we question this,
when flying the good times!
So not Fair.

Someone very close,
blackened by those evil shadows,
The ones which can't be shattered!
And we all have the say,
"That's so not fair!".
"Why us God? Why us?.

We then, looked for that holy,
that sacred little light,
which perhaps would heal the fallen,
But there were others,
blackened by those shadows.
Even children among them.
Even children.

How unfair is that, I wondered.
Drowned in shame and guilt,I recollect,
How easily, sometimes we utter,
"That's so not fair!".
How often, we complain,
"Why me God? Why me?".
So not fair.

Dolphin Swiming Pool

2010-05-14T22:49:00.000-07:00

For a while now I have been planning to go to some pool. It has been more than a year since the last time I jumped into a water body.I missed swimming.Last night after coming from work I was feeling really really sleepy at 10.It is really embarrassing to sleep that early when you are not in school anymore.Anyways, I did realize that the night before I had just slept for three hours and it was OK to compensate that. Ergo I slept and ergo I woke up at 5 in the morning. Somehow it is not possible for me to sleep more than 7 hrs.It felt really good when I came out to the balcony.Dim light and some what cold breeze kissing my face good morning. Waking up early in the morning gives you a confidence that you are ahead of the morons who are still sleeping deep.I know that's crap but that's one damn true fact.

So, I thought I can use this time to swim which i have been wanting lately.Googled 'Swimming Pool Hyderabad'.Got a few numbers.Called here and there.There was one in banjara which started at 6 in the morning.Bingo! Did the basics in the bathroom, took my bag and vroomed to the Dolphin Swimming pool. Finding that place was not at all trouble courtesy google maps. The way the receptionist answered my phone, I thought this got to be some posh pool and good keeping and not so many people.But I forgot, that o my darling, ye hai India. The pool which he promised was a Olympic size one, was not even half of it.There was no changing room for crying out loud.Oh no, there was one, only for the ladies. So unfair, it's not like Man have no ..... never mind.There was a shelf for keeping your stuff which was covered from one end and people were supposed to change on the other side. When I suggested the receptionist that they should at least have a changing room, he came back to me saying," Kya bhaijaan , towel hai na tumhare paas, kyun itna sharmate ho !".

I changed and got into my speedo.I thought I'll just go and dive in to the deep but some how I was feeling that I might have forgotten how to swim. After all, it has been a while. Scared by the thought , I joined a few children on the shallow end. To my surprise, there was no one in the deep end.In fact there were very few people in the pool itself. At least something good about the place.I slowly regained the art of swimming and moved to the deep end.I proudly reached the deep end and congratulated myself for not forgetting the skill.After a few iterations of free style, I got bored and asked the trainer there to teach me some other style,Butterfly may be, I thought.He said, "Come for two more days and then we'll talk". I felt like pulling him into the water and drowning him deep down. May be he is only nice to people who take the member ship of the club. Damn business minded jerks! Back to free style.I covered some more distance.While i was at it, suddenly it felt like some aeroplane crash landed into the pool.When I got a view, it was just a big fat kid jumping into the pool.I think we lost half of the water because of him. And there stood, the proud big fat mom and big fat dad cheering their fat son's blow-up. I wonder did he broke the family record of spilling maximum amount of water out of the pool by jumping from ground zero.I think he did. Then suddenly some more kids joined in. Some with their parent. Suddenly the pool had turned into a water park.

But still, there were fewer people at the deep end. I thought they will never come here.But soon they conquered even the deep end using the tubes and other stuff. They were so many of them. For a second, I thought I had one inside my swim suit as well.Population ! After struggling for few more minutes, I gave up. Never going to this place again. Any how, not a bad start for a weekend.At least, got to swim.

God's own children

2010-05-06T07:03:00.000-07:00

There is something special about the place you live in. Even when its just an empty flat. A not so big but not so small room.With a mattress on the floor, few novels on the table, few books for competitive exams, few cloths which demand to be ironed since ages, a deo and a picture worth a thousand words. And also, we got a TV in the hall specially to watch EPL\IPL. For the record, I just chipped in so that I could watch Manchester United lift the trophy for the forth consecutive time.But fate it seems, is not without a sense of irony.My friend Binu who claims to be a chelshit, seems more happy because the red devils didn't win, like zillion other Man Utd haters.

So I was saying, there is something special about home sweet home.All I want to do after nine freaking hours of freaking work that doesn't make any freaking sense, is to go home. I have no clue why I rush so hard.No one awaits me there. No one will be there on the door to hug me in. No one will keep dinner ready.But still, home sweet home.The ride back home was smooth.Although few people with no driving sense at all always bump into you.I wonder why all the people are in a hurry when they are driving. If you were feeling the pressure, why didn't you use the office loo for crying out loud.Anyways, i dropped Binu near the grocery store and came home.Just when I was about to open the door, he called me. He said there was this physically challenged guy near the grocery store who needed some help. I told him that I'll be there in a few minutes. I knew this man he was talking about. In fact ,I admire that guy.His courage.His determination.He is physically handicap and cannot walk at all. He uses a personalised two wheeler to travel to and fro from home to various places. He is an artist. He earns money by making portraits. When I met him the first time, he told me about himself. He asked me if he should make my portrait and I can give him whatever I feel was apt. He not even for a moment seemed sad at his fate. He had no complains. He seemed so happy. At that very moment I questioned myself that why do I complain about life. My problems are nothing in front of his. Nothing.It was a sudden realization. I found my eyes wet in public. I gave him whatever I had and told him you owe me a portrait. He smiled and said he can do it in five minutes.Some other time my friend, I walked back home deep in thoughts. Since then, I met him a few times at the same place.He once told me that the thing that bothers him is that people treat him like useless dirt and and that it makes him very happy if someones just comes and talks to him. I agree my friend.

So, end of flashback. I rushed to the store where Binu was standing near him. His personalised vehicle was out of transmission fluid. He said he has been asking for help since morning and also that this thing has happened so many times that he is embarrassed to ask for help anymore. We told him not think like that. He seemed disturbed today. He said, what good am i doing here, why is God not calling me up there. We told him that because he made such good portraits. I thought this would make him smile, but he didn't.Then we went out to get some petrol for his vehicle. When we got back, we filled his tank and he was good to go. And then he even offered to give us money for the petrol. We told him to keep that for the next time he runs out of petrol. Finally, even though it was a teeny-tiny one, but he smiled. He was all set to go home after a rough day. He needed a push as his vehicle had no self-start button which we all have in our overpriced bikes.Binu gave the push, and there he went. For a moment we stood there, watching him go.

I really admire people like him. You can learn so much from them.And believe you me when I say, they don't need money.All they need is attention, few minutes of your time, a smile may be.That's all. I hope you can do that for those special ones. For God's own children.

Kites

2010-04-30T08:11:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful morning.The sun was out though hiding behind that big white cloud.The sunshine coming out in every direction.A black kite started its journey crossing the horizon to go up in that blue sky.It was bound, of course. Like every other one. And you can never see who controls them.

At first, the kite didn't know anything about this big blue sky. It had no clue what was it's destiny, it's purpose and where should it fly so as to fulfill the same.It had no clue that this very breeze which seemed so mesmerizing,which wanted to take it away, can even destroy it to pieces.The kite was not bothered about the fact that it was being controlled by someone as it had no opinion of it's own.It enjoyed being driven.Being blown away by the mighty wind.Time flew like the wind and the black kite reached that ultimate height beyond which it could not go.That was it. It wanted to go higher and higher. It wanted to explore the whole blue sky. It tried and tried, but could not break free. The string won't allow it to. It made numerous attempts again and again.All in vain.

Then came a red one.It had never seen a kite like this one.It was so beautiful, but not arrogant.It was long, but not twisted.It was so colourful and not dull at all.It had flowers,butterflies and gorgeous patterns all over.It fell for it.So deeply lost the black kite was that it did not notice the most strange thing about it. It was not bound. It was free. It was independent.Even from that mighty wind.Is it real, it thought. It curled here and there.Up and down.All around the black kite. The red one saw the desperation. It saw that thirst for freedom.It saw that innocent black kite.It saw those dreams it had.

Then something magical happened. The red one circled around the black with the pace of a storm.It strangled the string and freed the black one.The black kite flew pushing the wind.Up it went beyond the clouds.It is real! It thought.The red one followed. Everything was clear now. The dreams.The ambitions. And the sky ahead.

Charlie Neo Se7en

2010-03-29T06:39:00.000-07:00

Charlie ke baap ne marte hue usse kaha tha,"Beta Charlie, ye life badi kutti cheez hai! Aur iff duniya mein kutto ka firf ek hi jawab hai,Kaminey! Is that true btw? Just because the majority around you is doing something wrong, does that gives you the right to do it claiming that it's not wrong.And who are we to judge if someone is right yaa wrong.And if that is the case, then
there won't be any wrongs.Just actions.But then chaos would follow.So we need some kind of system to control those actions.We need someone to judge.But who.Because everyone else is only human!

Do you often get that very feeling that you are trapped in some kind of a virtual world? Do yo feel that the choice which you going to make is already made and you are here just to know why ? Do you often get up from a bad dream and still feel like you are in a bigger one? Do you ever feel that the person you see when you stand in front of a mirror is so not you ? Do you feel that you are different from everyone else in the world (if this is a world) and the purpose for which
you are here is so supreme to others ? If you do feel all these, don't worry, just take a deep breath and say to yourself, "It's just the Matrix trilogy hang over, and there are million others who feel the exact same way.Ergo, you are only human!"

Gluttony,Greed,Pride,Wrath,Sloth,Envy and Lust.The se7en deadly sin's which will take you all the way to hell.If you think deeper, you might agree to the argument that they are all our basic instincts.At some point of time in our lives, we all do acts which refer to these deadly sins. Though how desperate actions we take is all together a different story.Imagine all these being taken away from all of us. Will not it make us low on emotions or more mechanical or almost identical or less human for that matter.So getting driven by your basic instincts at times is not a sin to me.After all, we are only human!

Serendipity.

2010-02-17T06:21:00.000-08:00

One end of the Bus stand

The day was finally here.I reached the bus stand where he was waiting for me.I got down from the auto rickshaw.My eyes searching him desperately.'Where are you my ladoo?'.I called him to tell I was already there.'I am at this place you said, the bus stand, some building looking like the India gate ! where the hell are you !'. He asked me to wait there only.Every damn second now stretching so long.Ahhhhh, I hate him when he makes me wait.Naaaa, I can never hate him.'Where are you my ladoo?'.I called him again.While i was talking to him, an auto rickshaw stoped right in front of me.He probably thought I needed a ride.I thought he might help.I asked him, where was I exactly? He said something which I couldn't understand.He then went off.The name plate read, KA 03 23 23.

Other end of the Bus stand.

The day was finally here.I reached there way before the time.I was so excited.The thought of spending two days with her after such a long time was so overwhelming.Amongst all the noises around the bus stand, I could still hear my heart beat.In Dolby digital.Or was it hers for that matter.I wondered.I kept on staring at both ends of the road confused from which side would the princess arrive.Accepting defeat, I asked the driver.Right side, he uttered.That was a easy guess, i told myself.I got to be the right side.I smiled.Where is she?Is she still in the auto rickshaw?To anxious to wait anymore, I called her.'I am already there at the Bus stand.Where are you?' I almost jumped.Came back to earth.I stated looking here and there.She told me name of some building she was standing in front of.I started running to the right.Then left.Then here and there.I could not find it.People around seemed unaware too.I came back to the same place i was before.I called her again.'Where are you? Some monument similar to India gate? I don't see any'.While I was busy talking to her figuring out in which parallel universe she slipped into, one auto rickshaw slowed down towards me.He probably thought I wanted a ride.Even after I denied, he stayed there for a while listening to what I was asking her.He suddenly smiled.'She is waiting for you at the other end towards the right', he said and left.The Name plate of the auto rickshaw read, KA 03 2323.

Bangalore Express

2010-02-02T09:53:00.000-08:00

Train journeys are boring.At least the long ones are.Small talk with the people in the compartment.Loud Vendors.Confined spaces.The only good thing being the view through that glass window.I was looking out through the one beside me when I heard someone utter the word 'Secunderabad'.My eyes literally came out.I took control.When i came back to my senses I realized that it was the Uncle sitting in the next birth who told my dad that this train has a stoppage in Secunderabad.I couldn't stop myself from asking.'Uncle, will it also stop at Hyderabad?'.Me blushing at my best.'No beta, only at Secunderabad'.Dad confirmed.I was still super excited as both are indistinguishable. I need to tell him right now that I will be passing by.I acted sleepy and told dad that i was going to the upper birth for a quick nap.I called him and told him.But I knew that he will not get off by then and won't make it.But i was still excited for that very feeling of being hum-sehar for a while.Whatever, I was so damn happy!

Just another day at office.Today i decided to finish off the things quickly so as to generate some free time.Why did I do that? I got the answer pretty soon.She called from the train.She was off to Bangalore.She said she just came to know that the train was via Secunderabad.My eyes literally came out.I need to here this again.Just to confirm.I got off my desk.'Are you kidding me, you really didn't know? ..ammmm...ummm...when ....what time..what train...tell me!'.I was in a super excited state.It was bound to hit Secunderabad around 7.I have never been to that place.But I have a bike now ,i thought.I can go anyplace.'I will call you back in a minute'.I figured out the whole plan, looked at the google map and also thought of something nice to tell my manager.And I was out of office.I called her.

He called back.He said he is coming.My heart stopped.For a while though.Now I needed to figure out what to tell dad.Casually slipped in the old classmate phenomenon.Went well i guess.I don't care.I want to see him so bad.I don't care.I was so happy that my face was all giving it away.Had to hide it from my dad.He was coming.I could see heart shaped clouds now.And that lovely rainbow.Love is awesome, i thought.

There I was on my bike on the way.Way to Secunderabad.I was so excited that it took me a while to understand that I was not aware of the route but was aware that it was way too far.Asking for direction driving a bike which u just learnt last week and that too in Hyderabad traffic can be injurious to your health.And all the people whom I asked for directions seemed to be have a geography of their own.After 1 hr and 40 minutes and after god knows how many twists and turns and god knows how many deja-vu's, I was there.She called when I was at the parking.

I was so anxious.These two hours were the longest two hours ever.The difficult part being to hide your super excitedness.I told dad that I can't wait to get out on that Secunderabad Station.'Why so beta?' And i could just come up with,'Bas papa, tired of sitting naa!'.And then when the station was approaching, I was on the door.He might have reached already waiting for me on that platform.I got down.He wasn't there.I called him to tell that the train had arrived.He was at the parking then.'Will you be able to recognize your school friend beta?'.I smiled inside.Nodded.Suddenly dad pointed to a guy standing just beside us and said,'Is he the one?'.I was so embarrassed.'You will know papa, he will come running!'

I was running towards the station.She told me some platform number which I kind of forgot.I didn't stop at the enquiry neither to get a platform ticket.I had lost all my senses.I went up the bridge crossing platforms and got down at the 9th one.That train was going off the platform.I lost my breathe.I chased it for a while with my helmet in my hand only to realize that this was not the one.10.She said Platform No.10.I rushed back to the bridge.Went to 10.The train was there but i was at the at the wrong end.I ran and ran.Until I saw her with her Dad.She smiled.

I had to rest for air before talking.Paid my regards to her dad.Casual conversation.I think I eventually had to tell him everything about me in those 5 minutes.It was nice.For the minutes he left us alone, I just looked at her.Her presence makes me so happy.There is something about her.I so wanted to hug her.I should have hugged her.If only I could go back in time.And then soon she was gone.I stood there smiling with tears in my eyes watching the Bangalore Express depart.

23

2010-01-30T22:17:00.000-08:00

Oh ya ! I am 23 years young today ( not old, young! ). There is something special about this number 23 and it's not that Jim movie hangover, I feel it all the time. I don't know if you do too, but hell yes I feel that all the time. Whenever there has to be a number associated with something, for me surprisingly it turns out to be 23 most of the time.Be it the seat number when traveling, in the movies and blah blah.Be it when I look at the time. Be it the date when something good happens to me.I can go on and on.Ergo I feel this year will be different.Good Different.Big different.Amen !

So it all started even before then clock hit 12. Some people called to wish before time complaining," Oye yaar, it will be all busy and all later and also I wanted to be the first one to wish you!".Come on people, you were all sleepy sleeper son ! Weren't you ? And then bang ! I was 23. My flatmates got a butter-scotch cake with 'Swaps' on it. Thanks you guys. And then we went to the best place in Hyderabad we know as of now for the cake-on-face ceremony.The roof-top of our 6-floor apartment.It's always so beautiful up there with the breeze, the moon and the girls standing in the balconies of other apartments.So there we were in that peaceful heaven with a cake, a knife,candles and no match-sticks. "I told you to get the maachis dude"."No you so did not!"...."Blah"...."Blah". I didn't hear any of the rest that followed.I was so involved with the lovely delicious cake."Lets use the rocks to make fire to lit up the candles",someone added.I will be 24 by then ! Huh. Finally, the ceremony began.More of that on my face than in my mouth.It was wonderful.The cake i mean.

Slept late to was not up early.But the phone calls kind of kept me in a place between the real world and the matrix ( read dream world). When I got up, I was high on happiness. It was difficult to figure out whether i was more happy about the day being my birthday or the fact that today was D-day. We had reservations at Imax for Avatar 3D.I have never waited for a movie so long.42 days since the release.I had to book like 3 weeks before.Crazy gult damn movie loving hyderabadis.On the way to Imax, I met a close friend from kgp.Good to see you buddy.Sad that we didn't get to spend time, but at least we met.Whenever I see someone from kgp, my insides scream out loud "Same species !".Miss KGP alot.That reminds me that on this birthday I did not sit on my pillow.Anyways, on the way, one more thing happened, I think I finally know how to ride a bike.Driving in hyderabad is a dare. And I just want to salute all those who do this everyday.Drive safely people.So there we were standing outside Imax after James Cameroon ripped off all the imagination we ever had with us.We all were so bummed.For like half an hour, no one could speak.Why was I born on earth? When clearly my heart beats for Pandora like a true Nabi.I could actually feel the USB tail growing from behind which you can plug in to every thing which is living and download stuff.I lower my head to maker of the greatest movie ever made.Respect \m/

We somehow managed to come back on earth.Also it was so amazing to see Abhineet not coming up with a PJ for almost an hour.Avatar was awesome! Eat street was moderately crowded with the hussain sagar lake looking beautiful and with a less irritating smell than last time.We ordered food and Richa ordered Chinese.Her effective management skills came into use when she utilised all other resources to finish off her plate and saving herself from being tagged 'Shalini'.The food was good and fulfilling.Other than that, a bad girl was stalking us through out with a cat tattoo on her shoulder.From the movie to eat street ! Then we went to a cruise in the lake.The black waters of Hyderabad and a bunch of black ducks.The Buddha statue in the middle of the lake is the biggest of its kind in India given several where clause that its of Buddha,its a monolith and so on.It was looking white from distance but when we landed on the island it was all bird shit.While going back on the boat, the debate was over a big celestial body.Some said its the sun.Some said Moon.Someone said balloon.Yeah, who was that BTW? And finally Richa came out as the winner.It was a fun-day indeed. A wonderful birthday.

Cheers

Why is it so hard ?

2010-01-25T22:39:00.000-08:00

Why is it so hard for you ?
You two have known me forever.
Why can't you see what I see?
Why can't you feel like I do?

Is it more about what others might say,
what others might gossip?
Is it more about that pride?
Its just perceptions, why don't you get it?
Is it about me being unconventional?
or is it the fear of being loved less?
But tell me, why is it not about what makes me happy?

It happens only once.
Even goes beyond your death, it's eternal.
And not all are fortunate enough to live that dream.
Let me live my dream,
Trust me, I am no kid anymore,
why is it so hard ?
why.

Lord of the Street

2010-01-23T07:50:00.000-08:00

There comes a time in every man's life,
when he has to decide,
between two of the most beautiful ones,
two of the most gorgeous creations.
Both attractive and equally real.

I wonder, O Lord !
can't i have them both ?
'No', he says, in a loud voice,
'You can not love both!'

So, I made a choice.
And there she stands.
Blushing all red with glittery eyes!
Promising me journeys for life,
There she is, Lord of the Street, FZ!

Happy New Year

2010-01-04T06:21:00.000-08:00

Just another day it was,
with the same old story,
without any glory,
and the ordinary me.
Just another day,
with the same old sun,
that cute little breeze,
and that all blue sky.
Just another day it was!

But there was something to it,
with all the energy,
that irrational exuberance,
zest to recuperate in those who fell before,
there was so much more to it,
with all the smiles and wishes,
celebration and kisses,
the promises and resolutions,
A new beginning, a new day and a new year.

This year lets pledge,
to be honest with ourselves
and to others,
to help those in need,
to care, to love and to spread joy!
I wish you happiness,
And a Happy New Year.

You are Beautiful

2009-12-22T19:43:00.000-08:00

What is beauty to you? Is it only the image of a person projected on your retina courtesy your eyes? Or that old saying that we hear sometimes 'Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder' is actually true ? Or is it something else.Something much more deeper, much more meaningful and truly but sadly inexplicable.For a minute, just try to forget everything else going on around you, and think what is beauty to you?

When we come into this world, our mother is the beauty to us.She just can not let go off us even for a minute.She holds you in those extremely loving and protective arms of hers.To her, we are the world.She teaches us how to walk, talk, learn, behave,love and everything else too.

When you yourself become a parent, your child is the beauty to you.All you want to do is hold him/her in your arms forever.You dream of a wonderful tomorrow for your child.You plan,save and sacrifice for that dream.You see your child go places where you could not.You see your child living your dreams for you.

When you grow old and you see some young one as aspiring and passionate as you once were, that person is the beauty for you.You see a reflection of your past in that person and then you go all nostalgic.You suddenly feel young again.That wave,that energy.All comes gushing back.

But in between all these phases, only some are fortunate enough to be loved passionately by someone.And when you fall in love, that person that you truly and passionately love becomes the most beautiful for you.You keep on telling that person that 'You are the most Beautiful of all !'.That person is sometimes confused.'There are hell lot of other good looking ones, why do you keep on saying this?'.And if only there were some words strong enough to explain that irrational feeling.Beauty is not mere physical.It's a much more complex entity.Your love makes you beautiful.Your care makes you beautiful.Your concern makes you beautiful.The thought of spending the life with you makes you beautiful.The fact that your smile makes me smile makes you beautiful.The pain I get if you suffer makes you beautiful.You completing me, makes you beautiful.So believe you me, when i say it loud, ' You are Beautiful! '.

Smile Because

2009-12-09T03:56:00.000-08:00

Smile Because,
For someone, that is the most beautiful thing in this world.
For many, it can be the only reason to smile that day.
For few more, it can make them fly high,in that love-sky.

Smile because,
it only makes the path easier,
it only strengthens you when you fall,
it only gives you that zest to sustain,
to conquer and to live!

Smile because,
you never need a reason for it,
rather reasons come when you do.
You don't need a season either,
it snows when you do.

And smile because,
someone you inspired once to smile,
might teach you how to,
if you ever forget, to smile.

:)

Betrayal

2009-12-03T06:27:00.000-08:00

It was an ambush,
the plot was a set-up,
the fate tricked us.
The fortune of those,
who had departed before us,
was the catch we fell for.

We were shown a promising tomorrow,
with all the glory and the smiles.
We were made to dream,
to touch the horizon.

But fate it seems,
is not without a sense of irony,
is not without a sense of surprise,
and not without the unexpected.

It was our time.
And it crushed us all.
We stood there spell bound.
Fighting for that last resort.
That tiny drop of satisfaction.

We moved on somehow.
But the irony did not.
It was now time for those,
who we left behind us,
and fate welcomed them as well,
like it greeted those who departed before us.

Is there something specially ominous about us,
why were we the chosen ones,
why did fate betray us,
We , the batch of 2005.

Load Runner

2009-11-14T04:52:00.000-08:00

Woke up this morning,
with an urge to run away,
far from where I rested,
To a distant galaxy,
or something similar.

I ran and ran.
Faster,Faster,
Left behind my place,
the people and the routine.

A new world opened it's door,
I embraced it.
Birds flying over the shining water.
Soothing breeze all over me.
I ran and ran.

I was all alone,
in that green heaven.
All alone with the nature,
at it's supreme best.
I ran and ran.

And then they all,
vanished in a blink.
The unwanted though came back,
my place,the people and the routine.
I came back from the Jog.

Neal N Nikki II

2009-11-13T20:51:00.000-08:00

[On a deserted beach somewhere in Mumbai]

What a beautiful place this is Nikki ! The sun, the sand and the exuberant sea. I can stay here forever.Wish I could. I feel so relaxed as if I don't want anything else from life.This is it.And I feel so calm here.No worries.No hurries.I can totally be myself.Whenever I come here, I just cannot stop myself from smiling.I love this place.[ Looking at the sea ]

Neal, you have the cutest smile, you should always smile.It may give others a reason to smile.[Looking at Neal]

[Neal turns to Nikki.She now looking at the sea]

You now Rahul right.The guy who lives next to me.Last night he came over for drinks.After everyone else left he stayed back.And then one thing led to another and we started..

What? So Gross Neal...I thought you were stra.....[stands up in shock]

Nooooo.......here me out silly ......we started talking about LDR's....[embarrassed]

Aahha....is it some jargon straight people can't figure out ? [teasing Neal]

Shut up Nikki.Go away.You killed the mood.[acts irritated]

Ok baba...I believe you are straight ...fine...now carry on..

Long Distance Relationships!

Oh that...I know that....I am just bad at getting acronyms.

So, he is in one.All the time we were drinking, he was telling me about her.How they rarely get to see each other.And all these years they have been so far and yet so close.How they spend time together over the phone.I don't get it Nikki.I mean how the hell can that work for someone.I was bombed hard.

Not surprised Neal!You never believed in love anyway.And this stuff is not for the faint-hearted like you.You got to have patience.You got to trust your partner when he/she says this will end someday and we will be together for ever.And you know what is the most beautiful thing about LDR, it's based on the most pure and powerful form of love i.e. care.As you can't be there all the time physically, you learn to care for that person.Though you can just give him some words, but they are so damn powerful.And Neal, it's a wonderful feeling that in spite of all the odds, you choose to be together.

Still Nikki, how can you live without seeing your beloveds face everyday when you wake up?
How can you live without giving that person a hug once in a while? Must be damn tough!

Tough Love! Well I am a fan of that.And to answer your questions, memories of time spent together helps to get through the longings.And the immense love makes it easy.It takes you to this wonderland. You can stay here forever. You feel so relaxed as if you don't want anything else from life.This is it.And you feel so calm here.No worries.No hurries.You can totally be yourself.Whenever you come there, you just cannot stop yourself from smiling.you love this place.[ Looking at the sea ]

[ Neal turns to Nikki in amazement]

P.S Neal N Nikki

Break Up

2009-11-04T03:39:00.000-08:00

"Let go off me",she said,
How can I?
You have been so good to me.
You have given me so much.
So many wonderful moments,
I don't want you to leave me.
How will I survive?

"It's destiny!
Someone else has you,
the other one awaits you,
I have to go,
It's destiny !"

But I don't know them,
Will they be as sweet as you,
will they make me happy like you did,
make me learn like you did,
will they ?

"It's in your hands my dear,
you can shape her like me,
or better.
I am eternal to your heart,
I am not leaving you,
Just moving on.And you should too!"

I let her go.
My beautiful Past.

P.S Sometimes we fall in love with things that happen around us.We get used to them.But when we move, it becomes difficult to accept the change.We don't like change.But someday we need to move from that comfort zone we made.It's difficult.But an even better future awaits you if you think that way.

P.S 2 I thought people will get the sarcasm but anyways, 'she' is not a girl, 'she' refers to my PAST !

I owe it to her

2009-09-27T22:52:00.000-07:00

When I was a little girl, my mother was my role model. She taught me everything. I loved everything about her.The way she carried herself. The way she took care of the family. The way she was always there whenever I or anyone in the family needed her. The way she always had a smile on her face no matter how difficult the circumstances would have been. But the thing I am glad that she taught me was how to always take things in a positive way.To be optimistic.That seems like so simple and cliche but believe you me it's the most difficult thing to do. And this very thing helps me everyday.And you know what made me even more happy and proud, the fact that I did the same thing to someone else. The love of my life. If you have ever loved someone you would understand that it kills you when the other person is sad or low with something. But now things have changed and that makes me proud.

Her name is Kusum. She always makes everyone smile like a kusum (read flower).I had never seen her depressed with something. But things have changed over time. She lives alone now as all others had to move due to work or education.She is still there where we all were sometime.I miss that happy place.She is all alone there. And probably this makes her sad. When I went home last time, I was shocked to see her this way.I was loosing it myself but then it occurred to me that if I also behave the same way, who will take care of her. I convinced myself that I will act strong enough to make her realize exactly what she taught me long back. It was difficult. But I am glad that I was able to. And you know, she took it very seriously. She listened to each and every word I said. She believed in me. She believed that I have grown up now. I was happy.

And I will be there whenever she needs me. And I will tell her what she taught me whenever she forgets it. And I just want her to carry on that smile forever. I owe it to her.

(as told by Aku)

Boy's Don't Cry

2009-09-11T21:53:00.000-07:00

I still remember when i was a teeny-tiny baby, i used to cry whenever my mother was not around. And people used to tell me that boy's don't cry. I had no clue why they said this. I still don't. God intended to create a balance between the two sexes. One was built physically strong and the other mentally. Each of them is not complete without the other.They complement each other. But somehow the way people look at it is entirely different. Boy's are not supposed to melt. It does not look good.Girls cry all the time. You know what, it does not matter what sex are you, it's all about how deeply you were attached with something that is no more or on the verge of destruction. How damn close to your heart it was ! I am not saying crying is the way out of everything bad happening to you. It's just that there are times when you are overwhelmed with emotions, you just can't escape it.

There was a time when I used to play football. I started in my second year in college and soon found out that i was so in love with it. The time in the evening when we used to practice in our hostel premises was no doubt the best thing through out the day for me. Then we used to put the lights on as we still always had the energy t0 play more even after the sun said goodbye.
I so wanted to play for my hostel team. And I could have achieved that but god had other plans. I developed a severe pain in my chin a month before the event. The doctor said you have a muscle tear and excessive running is not good for you. Ever again.I was so broke. It even became difficult to watch my friends play without me.I felt so low.It was a tough time.But they say that boy's don't cry.

Our parents do so much for us. They sacrifice a lot of things for us. They love us more than anything. They work hard all their life to support us. So that we can have everything we wish for.My parents were always there when i needed them. I couldn't have asked for anything more. But then came a time when they needed me and I couldn't be there. They said you need to be at the place you are to settle down. Take your time son. Don't worry. It felt really bad. And all that they have done for me came flashing back to me. Damn circumstances ! But they say that
boy's don't cry.

Have you ever been in love ? Have you ever believed in a person more that yourself ? Has someone changed the way you look at things ? Has someone made you a better human being ? And what if that person is like a thousand miles away from you ! And what if you don't get to see that person everyday. It's difficult. You have to feel it to know it. But it's damn difficult. And sometimes it goes full throttle. You loose it. But they say that boy's don't cry.

It's an unfair world. Some don't even have the money to buy food and others buy and waste more than that.Some don't even have the money to buy cloths and others buy and use once.Some can't afford education and others take it as fun.And when I see those unfortunate ones, it makes me sad. Very sad.But they say that boy's don't cry.

Lifeline Musical

2009-08-30T09:32:00.000-07:00

Its a cubical.And there are million other cubicle's surrounding it.And there are equal numbers on all other floors of that office.And inside those enclosed spaces are people working like robots.Its iterative.Its repetitive.They keep working.Like robots.Sam is one of them.He has had enough for the day.He just wants to go home and spend some time with someone.Someone really special who takes away all that pain.Someone who makes him feel happy.That special someone is his guitar.

Its a hospital.Numerous patients and their kins.All worried for different reasons.Some of them recuperating.Others still in pain.This hospital has something different in store for the patients.There are speakers all over the hospital all playing old time instrumentals.The doctors feel that music makes you feed good and when that happens you heal faster.

It's a disc.And oye, it's Friday.People are done for the week and just want to rock with the music and drink on the rocks.The Music makes them energetic.The sound turns electric.The waves do magic and make you shake that something of yours all night.People forget all the mess they are into.It's a totally different world for them.All of them high with happiness and just two words in their minds.Rock on!

Music is definitely the best invention of all times.It helps when you are down.It rocks when you are happy.It comforts when you are heartbroken.It offers company when you are alone.It's soothing.It's healing.It's wonderful.It's magic.It's our lifeline.

That lady's house

2009-08-18T23:59:00.000-07:00

It feels great to finally retire from your job.At first, the change seems to be overwhelmingly boring with nothing to do all day.But you get used to it.And then you start loving it because now you find time for yourself.You find time for your loved ones.You find time to see the lovely birds flying in that gorgeous blue sky.You find time to sit the sparkling green grass of your backyard.You finally get to live life.

I am really old now and so is my husband.The love of my life.I remember that magical time when we were young and fell in love.I thought that's all that love has in store.But in the last 40 years, i came to no that there is so much more to it.Its ever growing.There is no end to it.I love him.We have decided to sell this house and move to a smaller one as our children don't live with us anymore.I am expecting a client today.Oh, there he is !

Hello Mr.Roger! How are you doing? Hope it wasn't difficult to find the place.

Come, I will show you the house !

This is the hall with the couch,chairs,the idiot box[smiles] and a little bar table.The little bar table which my husband loves.He used to sit there after work having a little something on the rocks.It made him really happy.And this is the piano which my son used to play everyday.He was really good at it.I felt proud whenever he did a little musical magic with his small fingers.[Stares at the piano for long]Oh I am so sorry.Got carried away there.

Lets move over to the kitchen.Isn't it lovely.Here is where i cooked for everyone and there is the table where we used to sit together and eat.There were laughs.There was happiness around.I loved to cook for my family.I still do.Its just that, they had to move.[lost again] Alright, lets move to bedrooms.Aren't they spacious ? And the two windows on either side just lightens up the room like anything.This was my daughter's. She never let anyone in.She created her own little world inside.Look at all the posters and banners and drawing and what not.She also used to have lots and lots of flowers.Don't you worry, I will take care of all this before you move Mr.Roger![uses humour to cover nostalgia!Fails.]

And you see these marks on the door frame, here i used to make my kids stand everyday in the morning to see how tall they have grown.Now you will probably paint over them.[Tears]And there is the backyard with the lawn and a little garden which my husband maintains.My children took their first footsteps here.It was there wonderland.[very emotional now]

You know what, I am really sorry.I cannot. I cannot sell you this house.It is everything to me.It has all those memories.I need those memories.I cannot live without them.Sorry.I just cannot.[tears]

Neal N Nikki

2009-07-30T22:22:00.000-07:00

Nikki, I don't get it.How can a guy spend all his life with a girl ? Hey !
why are you giggling ? Oh come on for god sake...I did not mean he should
go for a dude just beacause its legal now! I meant how can he handle the
constant blabering which yields nothing but compressive stress and that
too all his life ?

Shut up Neal ! You Dumbass :X Apparently you are not familiar with a crazy
thing called love.Its something out of the world.Marriages are made in
heaven.Its when two souls combine.Promise to love each other till
eternity.Its so romantic.Aahhhh.When am I going to meet my Mr.Perfect?
OMG, i am so ready for it !

You know what you need.A reality check.Life is not a romantic flick with a
hot chick.Get real princess.And the reality is that girls are super
annoying.They invented the word 'Nag'.They are never satisfied with their
guy.There is nothing like love.Rich guys get pretty girls.Thats whats
real.You get me ?

Where on earth you get all this shit from? I know you Neal ! You have
never been in a relationship.You never had a girlfriend.You never had a
friend who is girl except for me for crying out loud.You have been always
scared of girls.You assumed things.Alot of things to be precise and not a
thing which is right about girls.Have you not read "Pink" by "genie" ?And
no Neal, we are not annoying.We are normal human beings and prefer to do
things in a normal way.And thats what bothers guys who just want to chill
all the time.I wonder if the word human would become huwoman.We just like
everything organized and perfect.Thats nagging to them.And love is not physical attraction dude.You are so off the lane.It dosent matter how we look like.Its our actions that define us.Neal, when someday you will love a person more than yourself, when someday you will feel
complete with her, then she will be the beauty for you.You will never see
anything more beautiful than her.Believe you me.Its so damn true.

Hey, don't try to Emo-trap me girl.I am not so easy.

I get that you rat ! Just let the day come.You will understand this
someday or the other.And then you will come to me with your cute little
love story.And I will be all oh I don't have time for this shit.Don't Emo
-trap me Neal ! [devilish smile]

In your dreams ! Never gonna happen girl.But if I ever change my mind
about getting married, I will prolly marry you then.How is that ?
Ok Neal ! [Fake smile or maybe real]

What?[suprised and scared] I was just kiddin Nikki.You and me...Never.You
are so....

so what?

so[ blushes] ..... I don't want to say .

I can wait.[Smiles.For sure this time.Holds his hand in hers.]

Perhaps Love is Friendship!
Perhaps! Perhaps! Perhaps!

नन्हा सिपाही

2009-07-22T03:22:00.000-07:00

बात उस समय की है जब हम नर्सरी स्कूल में पढ़ा करते थे। वो भी क्या दिन थे, न कोई फ़िक्र , न कोई आशाए और ना ही कोई अपेक्षाए। शायद वो ही एक ऐसा समय था जब हर जगह में सुन्दरता दिखती थी, हर चेहरा मुस्कुराता लगता था और हर अनजान शक्स अजीज दोस्त लगता था। उस समय हम इस कदर खुबसूरत लगा करते थे की हर कोई हमे अपनी बाहों में भर लेता था और हमारे कोमल गालो पे अत्याचार करता था।

मजे की बात तो ये थी की इस अत्याचार में लड़किया सबसे आगे रहती थी। और हम आज भी उतने ही खुबसूरत लगते है, बस लोगो का नजरिया बदल गया है। चलिए अपनी सुन्दरता के किस्से हम फ़िर कभी सुना देंगे। आइये वापस चलते है बचपन में। तो हमारे माता पिता दोनों ही नौकरी किया करते थे। इस वजह से हमें वो हमारे बहुत अजीज रिश्तेदारों के घर छोड़ दिया कर दिया करते थे। हमारे लिए वो एक दुसरे घर जैसा हो गया था जहा हम दिन भर खेलते कूदते थे। वो सब भी हमारा बहुत ख्याल रखते थे और बहुत सारा वाला प्यार करते थे। हमारे साथ हस्ते थे, खेलते थे और क्या नही करते थे।

फ़िर जब हम तीन साल के हुए तो हमारी भरती स्कूल में की गई और फ़िर हमारा उनके घर आना जाना कम हो गया। पर जहा दिल के तार जुड़ जाते है वहा की याद तो हमेशा ही आती है। तो बात उस दिन की है जब हमारे माता पिता हमारे लिए मिलिटरी की पोशाक लाये थे जिसे हम अपने विद्यालय की आकर्षक पहनावा प्रतियोगिता में प्रर्दशित करने वाले थे। उसे देख कर हम इतने उत्साहित थे की उसी समय हमने उसे पहने की जिद की और फ़िर जब बात नही बनी तो अपना राम बाण उपयोग करने की सोची। जल्दी से हमने अपना रोने वाला चेहरा बनाया और उसपे मायूसी का तड़का लगाया। जादू चल गया। झट से हमने पोशाक पहन भी ली।

माशा अल्लाह ! उस दिन तो हमने सेना में जाने की ठान ही ली थी। सभी ने
बहुत तारीफ़ की। फ़िर हमें याद आई हमारे दुसरे घर की। उन्हें ये रूप दिखाए बिना हमें चैन कहा आता। हमने अपने माता पिता से जिद की पर इस बार बात नही बनी। और इस बार कोई डाव पेंच नही चले। हमारा दूसरा घर काफ़ी दूर था। पर हमें रास्ता याद था। तो हमने सोचा की हमें अकेले ही जाना चाहिए। तो बिना कुछ सोचे समझे हम निकल पड़े। तीन साल के थे हम और ऊपर से ये पोशाक। फ़िर भी उस समय हमें समझ नही आया था की लोग क्यूँ हमें इस तरह घुर घुर के देख रहे थे। काफी देर बाद जब हम अपने दुसरे घर पहुचे तो हमें देख वो सब उत्साहित होने की जगह चिंतित हो गए।

हमें घर पे न पाकर हमारे माता पिता तो डर ही गए थे। पुरे इलाके में हमारी खोज बीन चालू हो गई। फ़िर जब हमारे रिश्तेदारों ने हमें वापस घर लाया तब जाकर हमारे माता पिता की जान में जान आई। तब हमें लगता था की हमने ऐसा क्या कर दिया। आज उस बारे में सोचते है तो समझ आता है की उस नन्हे सिपाही ने क्या गुल खिलाये थे।

Transformers

2009-07-17T22:54:00.000-07:00

I simply loved the first one. It was not Optimus Prime who impressed me, it was not the superb situational comedy and it was not Megan Fox. Or maybe she was. But mainly it was the mindboggling level of animation that was achieved in the movie. It’s simply out of the world stuff. It looks so real that somewhere deep down inside you develop a feeling that someday this fantasy may come true into our lives. That’s the magic of animation. Effective animation to be precise and not the one used in Rajnikant flicks. Coming back, the second had a great story line but since we had seen all the cool stuff before, it didn’t make the impact it should have. Moreover, it was a bit too long. And that gave me time to think about the word ‘Transformers’ and what can we make of it in real life with respect to the context of the movie.

The Transformers belonged to some other planet and to hide on earth they transformed into things which belonged here. Some wanted to save the earth, some to own it. How similar to this human race they were.

And when I tried to relate them the other way around, a beautiful thought came to me. We are not born with what we really want to achieve and our life is an opportunity to go about it. All of us have dreams, ambitions and desires. But to make them a reality, we need to transform ourselves into someone with that capability. We need to transform ourselves getting rid of all the short comings and weaknesses. We need to transform ourselves to someone who we really want to be. We need to transform ourselves so that we can make the world like we want it to be.

All we need is to believe in ourselves.
We all can be Optimus Prime.
We all can be Transformers.

The Dark Night !

2009-07-15T05:22:00.000-07:00

Black clouds all around,

shadowing the moon,

with that devilish silver line,

and the wind gone all wild,

I stare at the dark night.

Lost in the labyrinth of life,

the soul searches for,

the peace of mind.

Beside the evil woods,

breaks a ray of light,

so bright so shiny,

that my eyes go blind.

The maverick in me calls,

wants to break free.

He steps his way out,

towards the golden streak.

But then he looks around,

countless streaks surround.

The destiny awaits a choice,

but so identical are the lights,
And he stares at the dark night.

9177449940

2009-07-09T23:28:00.000-07:00

This number is really special to me.I have never craved for any other number so passionately.After seven embarrassing,utterly long,dull,lonely and sad days, i finally can say that i have it and you can call me anytime on this.Please do call.

We were supposed to take a post paid connection for official reasons and the whole batch gathered near the two red counters at our office building.One where you can express yourself and other which is always happy to help.But as i have been a hardcore follower of the former, i decided to continue.And there it was.The dark side took over and haunted me for a week thereafter.But the junta was with me.The popular vote was with me.Go Airtel ! We were promised an activation within 24 hours.Now when that person said this, what i heard was " We promise activation within 24 hours. Except you, loser !" .I bet no one else heard that.I really did.

That was a Thursday.Time passed by.I was expecting to hit the towers by Friday night.But was not aware of the trap they had it all laid for me.That weekend was probably the longest one of my life.I wanted to get connected so badly, I restarted my phone like a zillion times.Ergo got disappointment a zillion times.Almost everyone got the activation done by the weekend.But there were some unfortunate ones.The chosen ones.Others were busy exchanging their new numbers.Calling up friends and relatives.Smsing their love interests.And the chosen ones sat there watching them. Drowned in the pool of jealousy.I so wanted to exchange numbers.I so wanted to call up.Ahhh.Unfortunate times.

The fifth day passed by.Still sim-dead.But there was more to it.And sadly just for me.All other chosen ones got lucky.One by one all fell down.One by one all left me.I was alone.I was now the exclusive one.I stood still, staring at the mercy less screen of my mobile.Now was the high time to step up and rebel.I called up the manager under whose jurisdiction lied the fate of my communication asset.I yelled at him.I accused him.I even wanted to sue him for crying out loud.

Just tell me by what time I can expect my damn sim to work.It has been 6 days now.Are you kidding me or what? You gave a 24 hr limit right.Now I am giving it back to you.If you don't activate the stupid thing in 24 hr, you will see something you have not seen yet(really loud).

Sorry for the inconvenience caused but i would be needing your number ?

9177449940

I assure you it will be done by today.But on a different note, you got a really cool number !(trying to make the conversation light)

what? Are you nuts or what ? Listen you, don't get me started man.Do your job first you jackass.

The day passed by.Nothing.I decided to take the other option.Go vodafone ! But probably Airtel heard that.That evening it happened.I was on ! Bliss ! I was so happy that i forgot that i have been waiting to call people.I just can't explain that feeling. I would like to thank Vishal,Gunjan,Abhineet,Rishi and many more who stood by me in these desperate times.If ever in future you guys fall for this activation ambush, i will be there for you.

Hyderabad Blues

2009-07-07T06:04:00.000-07:00

New City.New Dreams.New people.You can fall in love with this place as soon as you hop on.Big broad wavy curvy roads all around.If you choose to ignore the awful driving practices people follow here,its a beautiful place.And OMG, the weather here... Not hot,not cool ! So cool !

But then, its always about the people and not the place.I miss home for my parents.I miss KGP for my friends.I miss Mech Dep for the manu guys.I miss RP for rpians.And I miss my wing for those lovely people who inspired me,stood by me,laughed with me,consoled me at times.I miss you all.

Sometimes when you miss people, you have the option to call them.I was denied of that too.It has been five long and frustrating days since i got my post paid Airtel connection, but its still not activated.Sometimes i just hold my cell and stare in despair at those two painful words.Inactive Sim.Only when we don't have the technology, we feel like calling everyone.Damn irony and damn Airtel!

Watching a movie in an air-cooled theatre sometimes helps us fight with our personal problems.And there are times, when doing the same makes you want to kill yourself.Sadly, this was the later one.Kambaqt Isqk.Do i really need to elaborate on that? I don't actually.But still I will.There is no way you can make it worse. They did it all.So much money, so many actors ....all in vain ! It was like a glamour show by Bebo ! It was all about Bebo ! Bebo Bebo ..can a song get more crappy ! I was so depressed that even Rakhi ka Swayamber seemed to make sense.Desperate times.And you know what made it even worse, we got the tickets in black.

Its always great when we get an invite for a lunch.Specially when we are away from home and have been paying for it lately.And the fact that we don't even know where we are going, makes it interesting.So, my friend got an invite from some friend of his who also works in the same company as we.He asked me to go along.So we did.There we were having a talk with the family who invited us for a lunch.I skipped breakfast in the hope of Ghar ka Khana.A sudden knock at the door.Few more guests joined us.And then there it was.A trick question from aunty.You both are staying for lunch right ? I looked at my friend.He looked at me.Both feeling exploited,tricked and used.It was obvious that those guests were unexpected and they had a greater priority than us.And the food seemed limited.So, we had no choice.We pretended to have some engagements but our disappointed faces gave it all up.We came out.Looked at each other again.Laughing out loud this time.

It has been a shaky start.But, what the hell.Aku is right.As always.Its all about the two P's.Patience and Positive attitude.

The Last Flower II

2009-06-20T20:44:00.000-07:00

Sitting beside the last flower,
the gardener wept,
and wept,
watering the red with tears.

The hope seemed lost,
lost in the blizzards of despair,
gone with the sad winds.
He wept and wept.

But one fine morning,
his love, the last flower,
came back to life,
sparkling like the lady in red.

It made him smile.
It gave him hope,
that the clouds will bless,
the spring will break,
and his valley will rejoice,
and it will be green.

He smiled at the rose,
grateful for the hope it gave,
and the love prevailed.
The good times came,
like never before.

How green is my valley !
said the proud gardener,
like never before !

The Last Flower

2009-06-19T09:38:00.000-07:00

How green is my valley !
thought a proud gardener,
looking at his marvelous creation,
beaming all the way.

He sits among them,
nourishing with his own hands,
in heat, rain and storms,
shaping them into his dreams.

Desperate times came,
took away all the little ones,
and then the strong ones too,
expect a tiny one with a red rose.

It was beautiful.
It was the hope.
It kept him alive.
It made him happy.

And then it was gone too.
The last hope of happiness.
The last Flower.

W550i

2009-05-31T10:30:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, when I was studying in kgp, a strange incident happened.The durga puja vacations were coming.I was really excited about going home.A break from the not-so-good mess food,the not-so-fruitful lectures,the filthy humidity,the streak of shower-less days and sadly a break from carlos ki cold-coffee.Boarded the usual.Utkal Express.Its a weird weird train.It has a three day run in total touching only-god-knows-how-many-states.Don't even ask about the number of stations.It hits the longest station in Asia at four in the morning.So, I had a cab waiting outside the hall at three.When you are done with your orientation program at kgp, train journeys are so much fun.And specially the long ones.Exploring the new horizons of O.P outside the campus in a train is something you should experience once.Ergo the time flew and I reached home sweet home.

This time I decided to just eat and sleep in a recursive loop.Then it came to me, Duh ! what's new with that.I always do that when i am home. But then came a bug in my *i m lovin it* recursive loop. My dad's laptop crashed.Studying engineering is sometimes embarrassing.People expect solutions from you and interestingly whatever may be the field.I defended.That's not my stream dad.Dad with that sarcastic face.IIT's aren't worth anything these days.My blood attained a temperature so high which was enough to melt the stupid laptop.Ahhhh.I decided to give it try.Did everything I could have.Did everything a mechanical engineer could have done.With no one at home, I had the whole day to figure it out.And I was totally confident that it was not my cup of cold coffee.I don't take tea !

It was a question of pride and honor now.And not to mention, the brand IIT was at stake.Aaha ! I have a plan.Lets call the company guy.He will deal with it in no time.No one will ever know he came.And I will take all the glory out of it.I love me ! (with a devilish smile) So, this guy had a history.He was a school senior who dropped out and opened a computer shop from where we brought this laptop.He used to visit often and was like a friend.So he came after a few hours. did his job, talked for a while and left.And I was now eagerly waiting for Dad to come home so that I can prove my caliber and was framing a technical explanation for what went wrong.

Now comes the interesting part.Before that,I must feed you with the architecture of the house.We usually keep the laptop in the hall.And the main door is normally open as the gate beside the garden is always closed.And the place being in a secured area, there is no chance of strangers entering your house.But if you are in the bedroom, you might not be able to notice if someone breaks-in into the hall.So, after this guy left, I spent some time in the hall and then I went into the bedroom and found something interesting on the TV.After half an hour or so I came back into the hall with the sudden urge to call someone.But my cell phone was not where I usually keep it.On the night stand in the hall.I looked everywhere in the house.And then finally called on my mobile with the land line.Switched off ! What the hell.I tried again.The same.I went outside and found the garden door open.Oh My God.....someone stole my cellphone! I was furious.It took me a while to get out of the shock.I loved my phone.It was a sony ericsson.W550i.

I was sitting on the floor figuring out what could have happened and was in hope that all those Sherlock homes books might prove to be helpful.But then why would someone only be interested in a cellphone? Why didn't he take the laptop or the numerous other things in the hall ? Or did I put it somewhere else ? Lot was in my mind.And then my parents came back.I told them about the loss. They were surprised too.We have lived here for a decade.Nothing ever happened in this locality.Dad asked me if someone came.I hate it when you don't want someone to know something but eventually you yourself end up in telling the truth.Now I had to tell them about the computer guy and the fact I called him which proves Dad right.Stupid circumstances ! Anyway, I did tell them and then we all rejected the thought that he might have taken it.He was rich.He had a computer gallery and lots more.Why would he fancy a fat orange cellphone which won't even fit in your jeans.

I decided to call him up.His voice seemed different this time.A bit tensed.I asked him if he took my mobile by mistake.He raised his voice and denied.And then showed far too much interest in what happened.He then suddenly mentioned that when he left he saw some slum kids outside my house.He suggested they might be involved.Something made me sure that he was the culprit.But dad did not agree with me.I called him again.I am going to the Police for a FIR, you sure you don't have my cellphone.He panicked and said he knows someone in the Police Department and will help me with it and also that hes coming over.He came home.He told his own story when his cell was stolen from his shop and then he filed an FIR but nothing happened and blah blah.Nice move ! But I was still sure. I will still report it and you are the only one who visited us and hence you might get in trouble.Dad thought it was rude of me to say something like this.I thought it was necessary.He then fake smiled at me and left.I thought he would break.Just when I was reconsidering my assumptions he came back with my cellphone in his hand.Swapnil, I found it in your garden beside one of the pots.You must have missed it.I yelled .I looked all over with eyes wide open.Now I was sure he took it.What a lame cover up ! A kid can do better than this.I smiled and decided to pretend to believe him.He was embarrassed.His eyes not able to look directly at me.I thanked him.He knew that I knew.He escaped.A kleptomaniac I guess he was.But there it was, my W550i !

Pink !

2009-05-26T06:24:00.000-07:00

Pink !!!

I couldn't think of a better title. I guess it kind of suits the theme as well.Yes, its about women,its about girls and the blah blah that follows.Actually i want to dedicate this one to my mother, Aku, my sisters and my female friends (sadly just a single digit number) etc.As soon as I figured out what this world was about and how things work here, I have an immense respect for women.I mean it has been so unfair to them.Right from the Purdah system to till now.Yes, a lot has changed.The male dominated society has accepted the participation of women in all fields.But its still dominated by men.

It starts right from the beginning.A staggering number of baby girls are murdered while they are inside their mother.How unfair ? Everyone wants to have a boy who can support them in the future. Aaah...grow up people! Women are probably the better half of this human world. Without them even your existence is impossible.Don't you dare stop those little angels coming to our world.

A typical middle class family would do anything to fulfill the wishes of their son, they would do anything for his proper education.But for their girl child, they would readily compromise to situations.They would not care as much for her education as well as she has to leave them anyway.Their is a bias in everything.She gets neglected.She is deprived of the love she deserves.Girls go through so much trouble.They live with so many restrictions and regulations.They can't go out all by themselves.And sadly these all are the result of the disgusting and shameful behavior of men who have nothing better to do but harass.Damn eve-teasers !

Then as soon as they enter their twenties or complete their graduation, they are forced to hear that unwanted sound.Wedding Bells! Aah ....give them a break for the love of God ! But sadly many parents believe in something else.

Early to Wed ! And early to raise !
Makes a woman Healthy,Wealthy and Wise !

It's good to see the change though.Today is way different .They have proved themselves everywhere. Women power is prevailing. But sadly this change is only urban.Things are all the same in the rural areas. Nothing has changed for them.

Now talking personal,I wish I had a little sister.I missed someone by my side all the time.Friends are always there but it still felt incomplete.Nevertheless, almighty gave me wonderful cousin sisters.I love you all.You know, there are times when you have issues which you cannot discuss with guys.They can't bear this emotional crap.Oh...that's passe ! The word is emotional atyachaar ! Women are surprisingly good listeners too, but only when someone opens up to them seeking their help or advice.Women are emotionally very strong.Men only pretend.They have so much energy,enthusiasm and spontaneity.Their working style is so organized and planned.And yet they are so unpredictable.There is so much more about them.But the most important thing of all, they know how to care.Guys, of course we care too.They just do it in a better way.

Cheers ! Go Gals !

P.S This is a sincere post and is not an attempt to impress girls ! I swear by your name !

Shit Happens !

2009-05-26T06:05:00.000-07:00

You have seen a person who has been so strong at everything all his life.He has inspired you, nurtured you and taught you everything you know today.You have never seen him break.You have never seen tears in his eyes.You have never seen him taking a helping hand from anyone.

And now he is not well.It has been quite a time now.Now he cannot even stand by himself.Walking a few yards has become so painful for him.He needs someone with him all the time.He needs to listen and do what everyone has to say.But he has never done that.He finds it very difficult to be dependent on others ever for the most smallest of things.He always believed that life can be lived alone. He always believed that he will never need someone to take care of him.But that is so not true.

You can't survive in this world all by yourself.You need others.To be precise, you need the love of others.You can't live without love.Those who claim to, they are just good at pretending.It's all about love.We are just puppets and someone out there has all the strings in his hands.We all have issues.We blame the puppeteer for that.But he has let one string loose.He has given us the power of a choice.The choice of being happy.In spite of all the bad things happening to you, you can always choose to be happy.I do remember the Gandhi's Talisman which used to be there in the front of our textbooks in school.It helped me a lot. Whenever something goes wrong with our lives, we tend to think that no one else has suffered what we are going through.But that is far from the truth. Just look around and you will see everyone goes through things much worse.You are not at all alone.

Sometimes people discuss the unfairness of this world. People do not often get what they actually deserve.But then we ourselves are responsible for what the world has become.And it will continue this way until we choose to bring a change.If there is thing which is morally wrong, but since everyone else is doing it, you think it's right.This should change.Some people waste a lot of time crying over what should have happened and what they actually deserve and lot more.I was one of them.But then, someone told me,"I have two words for you, Shit happens ! But you can always choose to smile about it and make a new start like the phoenix". I believe in those two words now.I believe in myself.