Blog: Unwinding unthoughts

A sense of resentment bounds mind and body to reclusive and uncharacteristic often to thoughts vitriolic and vicious kind. The need to disown and denounce should arise as a response to stimuli but, then it is something that doesn’t happen. I wonder why I don’t feel bad. It is often what is nearest to the eye never catches attention or something we search aimless realizing after a futile attempt what was it you were trying to search or that song which we hum in the write tune, tone and rhythm but never get the words.

I want so many things to happen. 

I saw this movie after a long time, movie was “Phas gaye Obama” nice movie, movie are a great way to unwind, unwind I must. It was a nice ensemble of casts, plots, characters and sub plots. It was incredulous but then not many of us watch movies willing, carry the message (if any) and apply it in our lives. If at all we carry anything out of the movie hall is a shopping list of things-to-buy (read apparel). I am not being critical of the movie, it was nice fun. I think for a long time that the support casts in Hindi movie are the real actors, others are just stars. The support casts have the finesse and (most) stars are gloss. I found the connection humorous between sub prime market/recession/biggest scam after Y2K and the story. It’s like nothing happens and you are doomed and then you keep jumping into different trouble only to find yourself lucky that you are alive. Once could have fret over the dialogues but then I don’t speak a chaste civilised type of vocabulary. I am not giving an excuse for me using the language that I do.

If life is cause and effect it should be predictable. If life gets too predictable (it never does) would it be too boring. The biggest risk on highway of life is to be too confident, boorishly crude and brash and find yourself stranded mid road with no help for any quarter. All this may happen even before you done with blinking your eye. It is simple advice (my advice, to me) to stay away from Over Confidence Avenue, there are no U turns.

It is amazing these things come to mind on a Sunday night rather than Friday evening. I don’t know if a Monday feels a hangover to everyone, at most times it feels a hangover to me. I wish all evenings feel like Friday evenings, wouldn’t life be a bit relaxed but then…

Blog: Retreat to Lonavala

I and a group of freaking out friends packed and left for Lonavala on Saturday morning, it now feels just like day before, yesterday. Well the current status is howling winds, swirling rains and crashing waves. It was howling and swirling rains and winds all weekend as all one and sundry kept going to much needed unwinding to one of the more famous tourist places out of the many place which are a few hours drive away from this chaotic, turbo charged mega-polis. The drive was smooth and there were and odd cheer of laughter and some banter as always as the road hit the Hills aka the Ghats the chill of the altitude, sight of distant water falls, hovering clouds and honking cars greeted us.

Lonavala being dotted with resorts and many company guest houses is an easy place to go and come back. But you would love to go on week days to avoid the dense maddening crowd. We reached there by lunch, unloaded. We went to this very small water fall of a rivulet which was close by to our lodging place. We played and jumped, the water was cold to touch and almost gave and tingling feeling. We were there for a while. No moment was spared of the flash light as the digi was kept busy all day. We then had lunch, and we ate like we were there for just that lunch, packed your self then hit the mountainous road again. We went to this place high up on the hills and it was getting colder by the minute meanwhile we continued to flash lights and click the snaps. Some of the snaps are breath taking; some of the views were once in life kind of an experience. It was were delightful and soothing to the eye. We were not chilling we were freezing after it rained and within counting one two three all of us were wet and drenched in the hilly rain, it was only the comfort of the worm corn that we found ourselves back to normal mode again, the drive back to the lodge was bit lazy, there were other cars trying to meander their way, the rest of the evening was spent of the terrace, and around the dinner table awaiting dinner.

The rain and howling winds were more intense then I would have liked to imagine, but my Sunday’s, good morning was a bit later then usual. I went to terrace and saw an odd sun ray breaking thru the clouds and the rains clouds taking a usual morning walk up the hills, the gentle breeze swayed all over. The good morning cheer; the whole day was then just spent lazing around sleeping and dozing all over the place, with little affinity for action or any other labour intensive activity.

The lunch followed repacking and leaving plans, a quick trip to the local temple, perhaps thanking god for good life and asking a few days more for extension of some good hours spent gazing at greens of the trees and greys of clouds, steep slopes and gushing waterfalls and rivulets. Then we stopped for one of the many crowded points and just went around with a sense of futility till I saw a cartoonist practicing caricatures, I wanted one done for me for eternity, got one done, and I was all laughers, all my friends followed suit. We had the most laughter since we started on Saturday morning. I was damn happy of the cartoon that was made of me and perhaps would find its way on the profile pic soon. It is hilarious to see but amazingly done. I have had highest regard for people practicing any form of art. It was done in minutes.

A quick coffee and we marched towards Mumbai, although the roads were jammed the traffic was thin and bit silent. I reached home, had dinner, edit some snaps, checked a few forwarded mails and went bed rather late and started my Monday morning a bit early.

Blog: Weekend story

It is over now. It begins by rushing out of a workplace on Friday evening, frantic phone calls, long delays of traffic and waiting for mates to meet and then something u dream of eating/having all week and then some me time. I prefer to spend some time alone by the sea side. I love the sea shore. You have gotta spend an evening at the Marine Drive, pack some salted peanuts, behind your back let the world go places and run around crazy, while you can look forward to the glitter of sun rays of the setting sun making the water shimmer and then see the Queen’s Necklace sparkle as dusk smoothly transits to an evening. I love it for the breeze, for the span of the horizon, for the scene changing ever second, literally. Let s just say that it is no coincidence that the best properties around the world are besides a water body, most of capital city around the world are also by a river side. I said most and not all. I have been visiting that place, albeit infrequently but never for once felt bored and tired wanting to just fade away in the bustling crowds. Never ever am I likely to do that.

The grey skies kept turning dark, it was a threatening looking dark-blue-black with winds howling and tide picking up and slight rain. The lightening was missing the action and thunders were silent too, only the wind made its presence felt along with whizzing cars. We friends met and then ate and drank; I made it home, a touch too late, but had a good sleep.

Next day a few more phone calls, morning cup of cold coffee and the trip to the optician for getting my specs not sun glasses but specs. I am already pretty timid and hopping to get used to glasses. I felt so bad that left eye saw everything blurred until correct type of lens helped enhance the picture and sharpen the colours. I was happy to see what I was missing, although I knew had to have glasses, perhaps wrong types of surging namely Net and channel did me in. I never the less got one and realized with you have limited amount on capital, everything seems to be a capital investment rather than another splurging expense. At least I would like to believe so.

Movie: Hangover

On Saturday saw Hangover, it was a phuckin good movie. A typical movie about guys, bachelor party, lots of swearing. If a bunch of guys wanna hang around, they have to check it out. It wasn’t just a comic flick, it had it sense of drama, action and thrills and spills. But it was definitely worth the fun. I was planning to watch it for sometime before I final did manage to see it. It was followed by a good hefty dinner and deep sleep. Sunday was pretty much relaxed at home, deeply thinking about getting early on Monday. I did manage it and life came to almost a full circle when I reached on time for a change.

The video added in the second edit.

Blog: A long sunday

I have been in a contemplative mood, keeping as many observations as possible. I called up a set of friends, a friend of mine has his birthday today, some more birthday lined up in coming fews day. By the way I have my exams too,just confirmed the exam dates yesterday, in short I have lots of "dates" coming up in next few days. The fun starts on the the 6 and ends of 19. Then I got places to visit and friends to meet. Lets see how I fare in times to come.

Practice is the key. MBA is kinda "different" you need to know a lot and you should present lots of examples. You need to rote/mug up/understand a lot of theory. But then it is tough in the sense, that one you should know a lot and second you should be able to put across the point to the person checking your paper. Both supplement each other. Since the time is of essence or rather in essence, going through Kotler is no easy taks, but then what you sow is what you reap isn't it. I know agri business seems to have a bright scope but I wasn't discussing agri business and the future ahead.

But something I like to discuss, is Amul. Yeah Amul the taste of India. It is an amazing story by itself, but I love their ads, they are a class in their own right.

Do checkc out it not only tickle the funny bone often it has a lingering thought that leaves int he mind,full marks for people behind Amul ads. I remember there use to be Amul hoarding in Juhu and at Worli and if I remember at Bandra-Mahim junction , but havent seen too many in the northern suburbs.

Then there were few snaps which were taken, my Bhabhi clicked the snap wanting my nephew to wear the sun glasses,he was n't to impressed with the idea of wearing, so I showed him the way to put on the sunglasses in style. I loved the snap coz of the kids expression, it say it all doesnt it? He wasn't keeping all that well a few weeks back, but know he is back in business and keep everyone on toes. He is very aware of his snaps being clicked, so much so that at times he hold the "pose" even after the snap is clicked. I wonder what goes through kid's mind. But then we ourselves don't know whats going through your mind, right.

Blog: Winter Solstice

Today is the Winter Solstice, here in the northern hemisphere. The days become longer from today, while winter hasn't exactly set in any where around, even as we see winter solstice come and go, one can expect things to cool as we head towards Christmas, New Year's and Lohri. My exams begin in first week of Jan, so I guess new Year's party wont be exactly happening,but I am not complaining though.

Also The Taj and the Trident opened today after the 26 November shocker. Do we as Indian citizen, world's largest democracy accept terrorism as a part of our life or do we have right to live peacefully? We have just sent a probe to moon I think we are capable to help Pakis dismantle and destroy the terrorist infrasturcture they have so painful nurtured, assisted, may be even shown off but never accepted. I firmly believe that while combing operations in the Taj Mahal hotel and Oberoi hotel were still going on, we could have made air strikes in Paki occupied Kashmir and perhaps gave them the taste of their own medicine which much heavier potency. Once bitten twice shy, I dont think Pakis will ever learn their lessons, China and US both tacitly know what Pakis are upto but the dynamics is as such that those who live by the sword die by it. I am afraid we as a country should have enough spine to retaliate to injustice after all bearing injustice is greater injustice to doing it. The people who go over board and get  influenced by religious moolahs whose motive are anything but holy should also be bought to book and hanged on the hook.

Well it looks this the match between England and India seems to be headed for a draw. I haven't taken into account Sehwag factor if he plays like the way he did in Chennai then the colours of the game will change with a session else we are headed for a draw.

Talking of drawing, SAfs have drawn first blood. The hapless Aussies were not even able to defend a mammoth of 414 runs, they did not have enough fire power. Since the now unfamous Sydney test the Aussies seem t carry on the guilt, they have progressively waned. Yeah they won against West Indies and Kiwis, if they had no posted win against these teams, one could say for sure they have waned. Although Kiwis did pin them in the first test match, Aussie went on to beat them comfortably, shall we say. Hayden and Ponting cannot find corner to hide their face. 

Greame Smith and De Villeirs rocked Aussies with century, Kallis played crucial hand with the bat and bowl to score runs and claim wickets. SAfs always seem to produce all rounders, I wonder when Albie Morkel gets a look into the test side? So much for cricket.

The song played below is one of the classic Lata songs from the movie "Sunny", the movie had couple of more songs,a good collection of tracks to have if you into old Hindi songs.

These days lyrics and songs and are not worth mentioning, they sell something which make u creep and cringe. I don't know whats wrong but I wonder if it just me.

Cricket: Sri Lanka loose.

India winning is passé for now, so Sri Lanka lost the match, again, India have won two in a row so that ensure the remaining of the match will have something to offer other than academics. You know, “just for the sakes thing” wont be there. So thats something good. Will it last? I for one thought India would be bundled out 3-1 by the fourth mach, but I was really surprised as I had exchanged by blue jersey for the darker shade. The darker shade just faded tonite.

This Singh is King too.

There are so many Singh going every where these days. This Singh is one of the King. India is high on MSD, (Mahendra Singh Dhoni). He has just raised the level of captaincy a couple of notches. I still have reservations about team selection though, but as crowds part for a man who knows where he is going, Dhoni makes the right call more often then not. Those traits are good. He first took a right call for dropping Pathan, poor chap, Virat Kohli, is young and did play well, before running himself out. Gambhir, seems to losing momentum need to up the ante soon, because he can play spin really really well, he has had a good run from the last T-20 World cup and scoring in every form of the game. Anyways Dhoni saw himself in a familiar situation of rebuilding his innings, Raina, who had a very good Asia cup, looking good, was also run out after making a solid 54, Badri felt early, so not much on him. Dhoni mean while looked like a man with a plan and purpose and will to execute, He made a well made 76 before he was out in the pen-ultimate over. Dhoni like Ganguly has started well leading by performances, but there is long road. Ganguly seemed to fizzle out of form especially in test and then runs, and fitness seems desert him. I think wicket keeping ensure Dhoni match fit. He is a very vital component of this batting line, with ability to hit some towering sixes.
But playing a bowler shot would have seemed like a very stupid decision if Lanka were to bat first and score card that would have read 120 for None. But he made the right call, India batted first knowing that Murali and Co would be hard to negotiate under lights, he won the toss and batted. A decent start helped and Dhoni-Raina-Sharma did their bit to present a respectable store. Indian seam bowlers darting the white cherry around, seemed to have had the better of Lanka’s batting. All the worries are now resting in Lankan camp, Indians wont mind it at present, in fact that would be welcome change, Lankans carrying the burden of favourites tag. I wonder will they collapse again if they were to bat first?

No one is singing for this Singh.

Yuvraj Singh, continues to vacillate between ordinary and extra ordinary performance, the chief architect on India T20 World Cup along with MSD off course, any way the start was decent but Yuvraj needs to carry on, perhaps he might be interested in watching today’s highlights and see what Jayawardene did. He needs to spend time, say 10 overs 60 balls I don’t care how much he scores in those 60 balls, he can cut loose anytime and make up for that lost time. The runs he makes afer that would be worth couple of barrels of Crude. ODI is Yuvrajs domain, if he stays in the end India will win,if sats are to be believed, India don’t loose often when Yuvraj crosses 50.

Zaheer in wonderland.

Zaheer has a penchant for pegging back left hand opening batsmen. Gilchrist, Langer, Smith, Gayle, Sangakarra, couple of new openers from Lanka, Cook from England have all been on Zaheer platter. I still remember his one of delivery to Langer in a Mumbai test when Aussies were here last. He produced a beauty kicking of from length and Langer was proud to glove it. He is in control and seems to be taking care of Sangakarra, He has him twice in two matches. Its Zaheer ability, something that Pathans lack to just land one a stump away from off and coming in to the left hander. Sanga creamed Zaheer, to a boundary only to be beaten next ball and see the Umpire raise his finger, the rot started. Jayasuriya is such a touch plaer against India, just guided a gentle lob to Dhoni, couple of more LBW and Lanka dug themselves a big hole, more to come, couple of more wicket, Munaf also coming to the party, Lanka down and out. He looks in a wonderful rhythm, Zaheer should take the charge and will have to continue to pile deep, if India is to win this series

Captains in command.

Jayawadene would have dealy thanked the India if he had crossed into three figues, if you are playing in Lanka you cannot drop catches of Jayasruriya Jayawardene and company and then think you will cream them off, with couple of catches gone a begging Jaywardene would have taken Lanka home but he played a risky flick which ended up as a lob to man behind his back, victory was for th taking, Munaf cleaned up Murali. He dug in and build his innings picking and chosing what to hit, leave and ease for a single. When he got out, he had a very good strike rate. He almost single handedly won the match.

The loser goes back to safety of his home.

The Champions Trophy issue crept up last week. I don’t know whats with the security? We hada tournament last month there, nothing came of it. Is it more because of politics between the sub continent countries and England-Australia-SAfs and NZ. I think there is lot of politics going on in the board room off ICC. There has been lot of it there in past few years. India and sub continent fetching nearly 80% of ICC revenue, wants more while the founding countries still amazed and seduced by the revenue don’t wish to accept the new hegemony of the business of country and the huge following there is. Australia don’t accept it because they are the most consistently winning for so many years. The English who “invented” the game and took it their colonies, haven’t done all that to well in any form of cricket, especially after IPL become such huge thing in India, the number coming out of IPL and couple of foreign players who came and played and went back to the counties would have spread the word around, ECB still looking dumb as to why did they not allow players here for IPL. I LMAO when I first read couple of fortnights back that English would be sending their second rung team, man it would have not mattered, they way they seem to crash out of major tournaments, it wouldn’t have mattered if they were to second whichever rank team hey wanted. They would have come there just to fill the numbers. West Indies board don’t have much say, SAfs pull out was surprise, perhaps they were more concerned with Aussies coming in and their Captain in not the best of health. That’s is besides the point now.
So will the suspended Champions trophy make way for Champions League?

A few other points.

Dravid should be recalled ASAP.
Whats with the fielding/catching/running?
Four bowlers/Eight batsmen?
Are India Spinner looking at Mendis?
Mendis = Kumble - bounce
Sharma/Badri should be number three.
Yuvraj may wanna look at number four.
The edge is missing from both teams, bothe teams are guilty of vacillating between sublime to the ridiculous.

Blog: At ease, Sunday

There was lot of catching up to do. I was not in sync with me for better part of the week. Things seem to spiral downwards, first it was a running nose then it was sore throat and cough, then head aches before and after a slumber and then had fever for couple of nights. It was perhaps the weekday blues. I feel I have lot of catching up to do with my own self.

Blogging helps. :D

I hope things are for the better. I have promised myself a plate of hot samosas and kachoris for Sunday morning brunch. You see there is a shop that fishes out lovely samosa for a deep frying pan, very yummy. I think my parents would settle for khasta kachori, and khajur ki cutney. I generally prefer having samosas in the evening after the welcome siesta following a heavy lunch. Mom seems to more gear for Sunday brunch and then Sunday lunch. Both being weekly events, much looked forward too. Family having three meals a day together, much longed for. The lunch obviously taken a bit late, you see it takes time to cook up three course menu. If some yummy sweet dish is done that one can have his stomach full, thank the lord for it before that, and following a little prayer, a little lunch, siesta is then part of the natural sequence.
You see I associate food and sleep like on following the other, hand in glove kind a thing. For going to sleep the dinner is important, after getting up follows break fast, and then some lunch if you could afford a sleep after lunch then you are lucky, but one can follow their dreams after dinner though. I have had (more than a) fair share of nap in my life. I think anyone who eats to this heart content and sleeps, and wakes up without any worries is the richest person on Earth. You might have read this very thing some where else too, believe me I read it from the same place. :P
Anyways there is a cricket match tomorrow a well, so also there is a grand prix , so wont mind checking that out. Although I am a pissed off about the champions trophy about to all out, I think it is more than the security issue in Pakistan, its politics in the ICC between countries of Sub Continent, India Pakistan (and may be Sri Lanka n Bangladesh) and Other, (Australia, England and South Africa).
( I will try to explore this in my next cricket blog.)
I just want to say to this to SAfs and the others, Pakistan is as safe and a violent neighbourhood in Johannesburg. So come on in and get on with it.
Anyways couple of college friends were about to come and pay a visit but then it has been a while but those guys postponed it to the next weekend. Don’t have many plans for the evening though, if some one comes calling than it is a different issue. I got some chores as well, which have to be shifted from “Plan To Do” to actually “to do”.
Gokul Aashtmi, it rains after midnite. Some may say what the hell, it rains in this season all day round, particular, in this region of sub continent. It is just a belief. When I last saw out of my window, the rain was a pleasant full, like a soft fountain and the rain drops seem to sway in a cool breeze like leaves in fall, really pleasant to the senses.
More updates in next 48 hours.

Cricket: Indians save face.

Caution:Long cricket post ahead, discretion advised.

Well done Indians. They managed to win one more “away” test. They have prolonged the series to a in the form of third test which goes back to Colombo. I will remember this test for what the bowlers did and the batsmen didn’t. It will also be remember for one of the “away” test in which Dravid contribution was “limited” to taking few scintillating catches and dropping may be a couple of them.

The Man, the Innings; both in review.

He bats and you watch. There is either some madness that happens which make u tear your hair out or you could hold your nerve as some hammer hits the hot iron on the anvil. Let me introduce Virender Sehwag. His aura is such that there was a ephemeral wave of relief when Sehwag was not included in the original squad to tour Australia earlier this season i.e. late last year. : P
The man has such a clout. There was a piece written by Ian Chappell wondering way he wasn’t selected. I think some one from the selectors while surfing net read it, Sehwag was selected to the trip down under, sat out couple of games, played in the third and since then he is in a roll and perhaps may score runs even if bats with the bat turned around. The Perth test was memorable one in the sense the rocket booster Sehwag gave India much needed starts, suggested Kumble to give one more over to Ishant when he dismissed Ponting. Ponting was beaten all ends up and after than Ishant was all over Ponting even in the ODI. He also took couple of quick wickets that helped scythe Australia and India beat Australia in their own home.
The times have changed a mixed bag IPL a triple century and double for him since then. This 201* where he carried the bat, meaning all ten wickets fell while he was not out. This score was his 15 consecutive score of over 150, now that’s something. He was perceived to be an ODI player but then has a brilliant Test record, perhaps envy of many and ODI is decent at best. He remains danger to the opposition, because pitch don’t matter to him much, he has score runs all round the world under all conditions.
I thought Sehwag blew it up in Colombo when he was out to an innocuous hook shot. He paid the price after a very brisk start and India collapsed to an innings defeat. The tides changed India went to Galle and there was a gale in form of Virender Sehwag that awaited them. He shredded the cunning attack into submission. He and Gautam Gambhir piled on runs very very quickly. Indian openers have looked in great touched, but then there was a batting collapse and things start to get heady again. The Nawab of Najafgarh meanwhile was having a dream run creaming all the bowlers all over the ground. There were lots off hiccups on its way; at one point in time wickets were falling so quickly that Sehwag at the other end would be thinking that he is seeing a highlights package at the other end. It was meant to be and he got another double century. He looked like a man possessed and stood between defeat and his Team.
He looked in command and in control. Jayawardene would have thanked his stars when Sehwag go out cheaply in both the innings in the first test. After his dismissals Indian team just seem to have collapsed trapped with some ordinary cricketing shots, and some reviews which could have gone either way. But it was Sehwag turn to thank the stars and couple on lower end batsmen in his team for his double ton. There was a bit of Sehwag show left, he got out off a rash shot. If he would have carried a bit longer then Jayawardene and Co would have been staring down the cliff. He scored a quick fire 50 in the decond innings and helped India to a decent total.

Not "Showing Now" anymore …

His great Indian middle order never looked so ordinary. I think I have a conspiracy theory on this. Alrite it may just be a hypothesis. Tendulkar, Ganguly, Dravid and Lakman, have not played well. They haven’t had any scores in any form of cricket to boast of, it is a start of a new season. There IPL performance better not be discussed. It was nothing to talk off. Now then it’s difficult to come into a season and stare down the wicket and find the smiling assassin and the weird bowler looking to rip it into you and then go bang bang boom. I think they have hit the straps, with Sehwag leading the charge; it would make sense for couple of batsmen out of the big four to rally around him till they have scored well sufficiently well to come on the forefront on their own. While Murali was contained in this test Mendis to his credit has had a perfect 10 for the match. I think Murali bowled doosra every second delivery and played it to our hands, mean while other batsmen continue to revel under the sniper’s Mendis’s hair cross. If I were an Indian spinner I would be looking at Mendis more closely then the batsmen because there are a few things to learn from him and one more bowl in the armoury will only help.
I hope to see the big four coming to their own, provided we win the toss and bat first on turning Colombo pitch. If we get a good start I can expect at least one of the big four to get a century if not two.
It is just the big four the majority of players are coming after some indifferent form, Zaheer after injury, Ishant after an ordinary IPL, Bhajji after slapping Sreesanth, and perhaps the echo of the slap he smacked on Sreesanth still echoes in his ears. Dinesh Karthik after being out of limelight due a now Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna recipient Dhoni. I think Parthiv may come in instead of him. He will be under pressure to perform well with the gloves. The last test series he played was years ago when he dropped more catches then he scored runs. He has to perform or parish because Dhoni will come in sooner rather than later.

Help from unexpected quarters.

As Indians have won the match one can savour it was a “in-the-balance” test match. The Indian seamers let the charge. Ishant Sharma and Zaheer led a brilliant fight back, with three Lankan wickets down and team score within double digits, the spell was cast, the mould was formed, the packaged was stamped for India. It was more so because of the fact that two names out of the three wickets that fell are called Sangakara and Jayawardene. These two bat well. These two bat really well together and reminiscent of Madmax, Arvind DeSliva and jog along Arjuna Ranatunga. It wasn’t meant to be. Ishant got the first opener with a beauty that moved across and could have tested any top left hander on top of this form. He did really well to edge it to second slip. Zaheer “Zak” could have one in his opening over as well but Rahul Dravid missed a catch. It was a screamer, as he tried his best with his right hand but Wandort did not do much damaged and stayed on for eternity. Zak goes for top order batsmen all the time. He had done well in England and coming out of injury, he looked in total control and rhythm. But that rhythm went out too soon I guess. It was a fourth day pitch and Zak the Ox could have got some more purchase had looked to take more wickets. But then Zak bowled another cock-a-hoop to Sangakkara. Sanga looked bewildered as he edged one and Indian were ascending and piling into Lankans. Ishant mean while was coming to his own and was lured into a cut which Jayawardene failed to keep down. Dravid caught that stinger and made up for the earlier chance which had gone begging. Lankans three down for nine runs. The writing was on the wall.
Wandort had resigned as he hardly scored anything. Indians liked him there. Ishant had him covered as he continued to look at sea. His misery was soon ended as Harbhajan quick sliding delivery wrapped his pads. Four down.
Kumble meanwhile start bowling I don’t know what. A line on leg stump and length full. He was trying to emulate Ishant. Did he wanted to contain the batsmen? The idea was good but the timing wasn’t. He was better off attack. Meanwhile Bhajji just played on Singh is King theme song. He kept the pressure on working out the batsmen dismantling him ball by ball. Ishant mean while was serving red hot thunderbolts. Dilshan pulled some momentum back but then the lanky pacemen produced one which lifted from length and Dilshan gloved it to keeper. This wicket meanwhile was all credit to the keeper as he pouched one. The fat lady starting to clear her throat. Kumble and Harbhajan just ran through the Lankans.

The probable fall guy.

Jaywardene's prophecy was turned into a hum dinger. He is such a great player and made some handsome runs all over the place. He should be first to understand that the game is always coming around to kick some butt. It is better to just keep boasts out of your mind. I saw his interview after the second test and thought he is still under the spell that Lankans scoring 600 and Indians losing by an innings. I hope when he reaches back to Colombo and before the last test starts that India has a (at least a hypothetical) chance of winning the series. If suppose India wins the next test and hence the series will head roll in Lankan camp. There have been at least a couple of heads that have rolled in the English camp after SAfs won the test and hence the series. Jaywardene should mark his words well and mark his crease better than his words. I wish he may never have to rue the words he said. This is a game of cricket and it is never over till the last run scored or last wicket taken.

Long Living Kishore.

Its been almost two decades since he passed away. He was a legend in a life time. Kishore Kumar the most versatile artist Hindi cinema ever saw. A deserving blog on Kishore Kumar and also on Firendship Day/week likely soon.

Song: Mere Meheboob Qayamat Hogi,
Movie: Mr. X in Bombay

About:Friend's Wedding

A friend S, back from US accompanied me to one of our friends wedding. I was there last year round to attend D's engagement. So I was glad I could attend the wedding as well.

A touch of flash back.

My mom packed clothes for me. I don't know what it is with me I have to unpack at least once before I pack up for good and leave for destination. This time I did carry my tooth brush along, just that I forgot to get the tooth paste along. Just before leaving the house, I searched for my train tickets, which I remember putting in my back pocket, it was their but proof of identity was missing, fortunately it was close at hand so wanting to reach the station before the train, I and S headed to Borivali where we alighted shifted to platform number four, saw Rajdhani come and go like 18:10 Virar fast. I thought next would be the train but then there was an announcement of regret. The train was come on platform number 6. I muttered a few things under the breath and then my bemused friend added fire to fuel by inquiring if the train already arrived on platform 6 is "our" train? We hurried on to the train manage to board it before it bade us good bye, called up my friend and told me I am going to present for his wedding.

Nothing during the train except hearing to all that my friend has to say a few more calls to some more friends.

Wedding Day.

The trains always run late in the wedding season. I have had very dragging experiences of trains being late when u go to attend weddings. God. Anyways someone came to pick us up. I inquired if it would be late, it took us hardly ten minutes to reach a place where we would stay for next couple of nights, we unpacked, freshen up and manage to be in kurtas and pajamas for the wedding. The hunted for a gift shop and a bouquet shop, and just manage to reach the wedding procession, before it ended, shake a leg for some time. before waiting for an hour and half to walk 25 m and climb 3 storeys. The grooms "shoes" were siphoned off even before girls from brides end could even have a look of it.I am not the lone culprit I just hid those with S. :) We had to draw a lot of flak and lot of swollen faces for those shoes.

Anyways we entered the hall after sometime and Mandap was all set. Johri paani pilla de yaar was my friends (the groom) request so I hood winked one of the "waiters" for couple of glass and couple of cold drinks for my self and a couple of glasses for the bride and the groom. There was something going on in the Mandap, so I straight away headed for something to eat, I hadn't had proper breakfast. I did not over compensate though. So had a few bites of whatever was served and meanwhile saving my camera and myself from smashing elbows I managed a few snaps but many of them to my dismay came out blurred/jarred. Anyways I kept clicking snaps.

The chaos in the Mandap mean while continued, with panditiji calling for things which were not there and people who were absent because they busy munching monaco biscuits with cheese topping and paneer tikkas at a far flung corner. Anyways people came in and went and I was busy catching up with a few of relatives I met last time and few of the groom friends. We settled down in a place where we could be served first and making sure the plate is half empty by the time it went to the front row. The shoes were safe and sound as my friend and I were free from any sort of suspicion and there were a few pangs that were exchanged in far corner of the hall. Anyways I kept clicking snaps and sipping cold drinks and munching whatever came my way.

Are you done with all the Lawful implications? Yes. The groom replied with a sense of joy and pride. I congratulate both him and her. The bride was surprised to see me. I was surprised at her surprise coz previous night I had called them telling them I will come. The groom introduced S to the bride, after couple of pleasantries compliments, I stepped out and he waiter was just standing by for me to grab a few more tasty bites.In a short span that I was waiting for bride and groom to take blessing from everyone I noticed that mandaap hall was practically empty. It was lunch time.We headed for lunch, I gave up on salad and took few paneer "items" and all the sweets including shrikhands, halwas,dhokla and all. I made sure I did not have to get up for next round. Lunch was dinner, but i helped myself with Ice creams and halwa.

It was "bidai" time. A few heart touching moments as the bride leaves her parents. A symbolic gesture of any Indian wedding. A few more cold drinks and we made it to the grooms place before they did. I don't know what took so long for them to reach. Anyways a few more mantras and pujas as the bride is bought home and headed to a Puja room. I and S sat down and settled for few glasses of chilled water. After sometime the bride when away to get ready, the groom went away to get ready and someone requested me and S to be back in half and hour. So I and S also left to get ready. A quick shower and change of clothes from traditional to a standard cotton trouser and a blue shirt we were back to the grooms house, who was getting ready, a coffee and a few calls more we waited for the groom to be back and chatted and pulling each others leg. My friend obviously really happy. A dream is coming true after all. Anyways few excited looking tired ladies getting it right with the whole ensemble rushed back to the reception.

The reception was again large gathering of people which seemed to grow large as the food was served. I settled for a pudding and few lighter things, not waiting to eat too much. A few jokes, repartee and snaps. Then the made their way to food stall and a few things as both families settled to have food together. By the time the food was finished only the immediate families remained including Me and S. We went home after tired and sleepy.
The next day was perhaps more frantic. A friend R returned my call. I just wanted to meet him. S had to catch the afternoon train home.The brides folks were headed back to their home. I accompanied groom to the hotel where the were staying, the bags were packed and ferried to the station. Thankfully we reached station on time so did the luggage. The train to their destination was on time too, the luggage was loaded and a few tearful good byes and laboured smiles, we bid them good bye and went back to grooms home. There were people catching sleep in 10 minutes shifts as people were mentally drained.The bride changed and after a while the leaving room was dusted and place made for people to have a seat. The Groom and bride enjoying the environs of the home settled down. The newly wedded bride was happy to attend her father calls. Anyways we sat/slept, chit chatting as people and good kept going in and out of the house. I meanwhile managed to catch a few winks. A few more cold drinks and then early evening I, the groom, the bride and grooms sis went for a drive to the port. We chatted on our way, a few more calls and few cheers of laughter.

The R called we met and had some local nashta, something that vaguely resembled garlic bread and a milk shake each. It was almost 8 in the evening and then the grooms family and me went for dinner. They dropped me at station, The groom and Bride stayed back with me till the train left. A few more funda and smiles I was on the train and chatted along with grooms relative, an old lady.I catch my sleep for most of my way and the train reached a bit late. I was finally home. My parents were really happy to see the snaps, mom especially made me zoom on the jewelery which the ladies happen to wear in the wedding.It is a gold jewelery exhibition at any wedding we attend here.

Jaane tu ...

Abbe mein jaanta hoon.

The movie perhaps got decent reviews coz 2050 was perhaps worst of the too. It is a decent movie thats it. One time watch if you dont know what to do on a Sunday evening. Its a Hindi movie and doesn't come under any fram of logic. A few actors did their part well, Ratna Pathak. Naseer, Paresh Rawal but then these guys are good and proven actors. A few laughters and thats it.
The movies left me with a few questions.

• What were those guys studying?
• Can you go to a New York University without your final result/degree in your hand?

The movie isn't all that "great" as it is made out to be. I guess its doing better than 2050.

Blog: Saturday and Mondays.

The most cumbersome task for any working professional/anyone is to get up on time or reach office on time on the Monday morning. Its nothing against home makers the madness of running around the trains, buses, cars and rickshaws is much more agonizing to answering phones and call-bells. Its not that there is no mad rush reaching on other days but lets just say that Monday Mornings a simply "different" . You see I hate getting late anywhere, I think its a crime to let anyone wait.The classic example I give would be a doctor getting late into an OT just by 2 minutes resulting in a loss of a dear life. So those who say what happens if I am two minutes late, then think about it.I dont mind reaching a place 5 to 10 minutes early. The key to reaching anywhere on time is to start early. A stitch in time save nine.
There is a mad rush to get lost from the office at the end of the work week and everyone runs as if there is no turning back. Monday morning is loathsome until u have that cup off coffee and brings back the focus to realities of life. The only way to find yourself is lose it all to what you do. The key being performing and doing so consistently perhaps against all odds. There should be no rhyme or reason to whine.
Mine was eventful weekend though. It was good to catch up with my visiting cousins. Aaryan who was suffering from flu last week was back to his cheerful best as he kept wobbling on two tiny feet, played his drums and enthralled all of the family with a blabbering rollicking laughter.Its a great site. He doesn't mind coming to me and its ridiculously funny to tickle him and hold him close. :)
I saw Sarkar Raaj yesterday.I thought this would take Abhishek to the next level butit wasnt to be. I think the movie had to match up with Sarkaar and I think the characters did not seem to be that shaper as they were in Sarkaar.I would slot it as not bad.I think review of Sarkaar Raaj eneds a seperate post. I hope I have determination to post one more blog this week. I want to over come the laziness of not blogging and determination to blog and blog with a new vigour. It would soon be three years of blogging for me. I think I will savour that. the only regret would be not have blogged enough.
Anyways its an old story that I tend to get up real early on Sunday morning, I may sleep at 2 AM and would frustratingly get up sometimes between 6:30 and 7 in the morning and then wait for hate morning newspapers to come in and fill the void of a Sunday.Anyways there wasn't a big void as my cousins have come over and so is my grandfather.Like an endearing encompassing grandfather and I have been talking a lot daily science and mythology.There is a deep interest at both sides to inquire and tell supported by curiosity and patience.
By the way parent would be out the during sometimes next week and some freaking out ideas are already begining to take root in my brains.
It was treat to see Russians edge out perhaps the favourites Holland. Last night another favourites Italy were edged out. I was sad to see Croatia edged out though. he did well, the scorline against Protugal wasnt fair. They could have score more goals.So its Germany Russia and Spain, I think in the semis with the fourth team yet to be finalist.I wonder if it is Turkey. Anyways Euro is aired way to late. I am not sure I am very inlined to see it though.

Second Edit.

This post is dedicated to Jane McGrath, she passed away yestrday. She is survived by her two children and husband Glenn McGrath. She had survived cancer once and went down fighthing.

Cricket: Buzz, Hype and hold it.

Well IPL has been under way. It was hype like no other. BCCI may not know many things about cricket, Indians still don’t have an official website but they know the revenue side of it. There is a herd of people who know who to milk this cow. They have done all it takes, to set it rolling and the euphoria has picked up among the masses like never before. The evidence is on the fact the stadiums are running mad full even on weekdays so that’s the proof and if they are watching it from the stand one can relax on the sofa in the drawing room and see Nehra from Mumbai Indians being bashed by his former team-mate Sehwag or Robin Uthhapa taking a bow …

I will be covering Sundays matches albeit briefly.

Well it was a show downs featuring the underdogs versus the favourites. Royals and Indians were tagged a as underdogs while their opponents, Super-Kings and Dare-Devils were both on a continuous winning streak.

Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Daredevils.

Well minus Harbhajan … and Tendulkar, I don’t think Mumbai Indians have enugh fire power in bowling. I know there is Pollock but he is not running thru sides and is very predictably short of what was previously McGrath-Pollock zone. He isn’t enough in the zone. But Dhaval Kulkarni looks good. The top order for them isn’t firing. Jayasuriya should bat for a bit more longer. Uthappa is Montoya of cricket he will get starts and will get a very good first turn ie Montoya hardly completed enough race. The point I am putting across is Uthappa will fall off favours soon if he isn’t being there at the end.
Dare Devils seemed to be slipping out of the drivers seat when Pollock smacked Asif for three sixes in an over. I have a perception that Pollock the batsmen is enjoying more than Pollock the bowler, there is the case of sending him up in the order may be around the 12 over mark so that he can cream the bowling at the death. Sehwag is in prime form it doesn’t matter whats the score, if it is there to be hit, he will smack it and smack in a very broad looking middle of the bat. He seems to be just playing it with such ease while some shots looks like he is pumping iron. He got out to a wrong time to what one would call an innocuous delivery and ambitious shot. His wicket turned the tide and Mumbai India went on the kill and won by 29 runs a very good margin indeed.

Chennai Superkings vs Rajasthan Royals.

They were down from the first ball … Parthiv was dismissed on the very first delivery of the match. I think in the hindsight Dhoni missed a trick here he ought to be there when it was one down. He came in too late, by the time he came momentum was with Rajasthan and Warne cleaned him up much to my dismay. It was a beauty though; I think Dhoni might be proud to have snicked that. Chennai managed a 110 and Rajasthan cruised too an 8 wicket victory.

Will he wont he?

Among the big four (Dravid Tendulkar, Ganguly Laxman) he alones is still to play his first IPL match, While Laxman has had couple of decent outings off late but there is still more. Tendulkar will bring lots of confidence to the team. I loved when TV channels were airing Pollock’s interview and someone asked him about Tendulkar, he just replied that he doesn’t want to change a winning combination, really witty that.

Blog: Bloggin Sundays

God been a long long while ...

I am back from Ahmedabad. You talk to any Gujarati about Ahmedabad and u while definetly get a warm response. No Gujarati (alive or dead) would curse Ahmedabad/Amdavad (from now on Ahd) for anything.It is the sentimental capital of Gujarat. Anyways there are ways to see it, it bustling city for sure. C.G. Road and Sarkhej Gandhinagar are places to be to freak out. U get Goal gappa at any place u can turn your head.
I couldnt go around much but went to Swaninarayan Temple.The drive from Sabarmati, where I was lodged to Gandhinagar was awesome.It was truply great coz Gandhinagar has tree lined roads ... atleast the ones on the highway and it was refreshing.

The weather in Ahd was perfect. It got cold as we were about to head back to Surat. It was fun though. I did make it a point to go to Sabarmati' Gandhi Ashram and took some snaps. I was late in the evening who they arent so great.But it felt good there.I patted my back to be there.Its ironic may be a tribute that at the end of the road where the Ashram is located there is this big cirle which boasts of Netaji statue. I think both great men would see it as honor to be side by side. They had ideological differences but respected each other imensely. It shookh me every time I passed through that road but I think it was beffitng for both.

A few hours back ...

I pull out a mobile from my pocket ... select "contacts" and start saying why wait for the right gir when the worng ones are so sexy" and get Sudeep''s number .. I dial the "code" (Number witheld for unsecure reasons) and here a song from Jab we met. The enrgetic voice seem content after taking SNAP test. I too had done they same, he sounded energetic and a sense of relief.Itsn't that he had given SNAP and I had called him,it was his birthday and it was SNAP as well. I hope he has a happy memory of this day and perhaps he will remember this day (of this year) for some odd achievement.
So Sirjee u may be readin this on Google reader, wish u a happy birthday again party shayad result ke baad ... :)

I am a legend.

Saw the movie if u have not seen it, then add Cast Away to Resident evil and u will get I am a legend, starring Wills Smith. I am not into fiction movies, palle hi nahi padhti yaar. So didnt think it was paisa vasool, by the way I am still contemplating whether to pay for the ticket ... Plus there is too much reliability on graphics, I am an old school guy prefer to see mysteries comdies and off course action stuff.

Eggs rule the roost.

There is this Laari (lorry/local eatery/Junk food joint) at Rustumpura ... near Chowk downtown Surat ... suratis dont bite me ...
Me and my friend drove off the that Ganesh L, world famous in Surat for eggs. He prepares them in more ways then u cn imagine. After having Keemo and Tameta fry (srambeled egg and tomato curry) me and my friend thanked each other for coming along and a Thumbs bottle ended the self paid treat.
We went back to join our friends who were still there at this Revolving restraunt munching on roasted chicken. The drive back home was quick.Its getting colder by the day but its just right to roam around and have some Ponk (jowar preparation) Corn, nimbu soda, eggs in any form or prepartion and if there is a chicken roasted then nothing like it.

Its one and one post that I wanted to do is done.

Music: Tere hontho ko salaam .... jinko choo jaane ko taarse se kai sagar kai jaam .... (A ghazal by Amit Khosla)

About: A prologue

I hope to update this post soon ...

Coming sooner!

Blog: Sunday Times.

When in Surat do as the Surti does ...
Well it is a Sunday, I had a class in lieu of prepration for the big CAT, which get everyone purring for cover. I just missed a date with a Swiss Miss, the most delicious chocolate pastry you will have. It is a sheer delight. It is so lite, and the pocket just feels lighter before you have one. Well now that I am earning it doesn't count much.

Plan of the coming evening ...

There are colleagues which are coming in. I stay just outskirts of Surat, from where office is nearer. MY parents have shifted back to Mumbai so bit more fun freaking out.There is a lot to do, you can have some great Ponk, thats amercan born, boiled and all ready to be eaten. There is a new sizzler join, or a tradtional food at Gangaur where India junk food can be eaten. Then there are Sandwiches waiting in other corner of the city. Then there is the famous "Khau Galli" where u get everything of quantity. There is a close thelawala who coks some great dishes from scrambled, boiled, omlettes, just awesome, must eat needless to say. Then there are falooda to be had once evening turns night. If nothing beckons it will be chicken at Sugar n Spice.

Movie.

Thinking of Johnny Gaddar, I hope people follow suit and think of seeing a movie, it has been a wekk since I last saw Bourne Ultimatum. I have seen all the three bourne series. I love it. Matt Damon you rock. Thats was in Mumbai.

Surf.

The orkut and the blogging bug. I had to come it was days since I last saw what an Orkut login looks like. I just enterd a cyber cafe to catch up with the virtual world and kee myself in check as to whats happening. After getting thru to scraps and checking out the latest Spam on my email accounts looking for something on Yahoo!

It is Yo Yo! happening.

It is not exactly a Yo Yo is happening but I see a bubble in the market thats happening and when things get to rosy u get a bit thorn in your flesh. A thousand points without a correction, I see a big slump. I hope it does, just for your attention Stocks like RNRL climed 35% in one day. My friend put forward an interstig fact, although the markets are marching forward, reliance stocks across the board are correcting. I thnk it is high time people booked some profits. It is a the right time.
There are stocks like Tata Power who have climbed from Rs 640 something to a mighty Rs850.
I over heard joking buying Ispat stell for a 100 shares, it is quoted at just Rs 28. I am tempted to buy something as well, but then things are two awry right now, lets see, I need to buy a few things more. The CAT formsare up for sale, the MBA colleges just should hand a pdf file on their sites and ask for CCHeque or Demand draft that will make forms a bit more accessible, only thing is just the form number but then people in IT field would have more than one ready asnwer for this one. It is no rocket science.
I am contemplating a laptop. But the made a few investments and markets just soared.I just wish to keep a tab on it. But buying a laptop at this point in time will perhaps not be a hole in a pocket, I will stipped of all my earning to date. So lets see, but one eye is on a nice lapy for sure.

See it; buy it.

A trip to Biz Bazaar is must, u just want to go their to check out a few things only to come out a few trolleys full. I tneed to but some detergents. My mom use to say U will come to know everything when U start earning, she was right. God .
A few cakes of detergents, a few pakcets of eatbles, achar ki bottle, some farsan for emergency stock of midnite supper. I am dearly in a modd to have Maggi Noodles.I just bought a pair of denims and sport shoes a while back. :)

I hope I get time to write more coz a big weekend is coming up. the secondof october marks birth anniversary of two great men. A cousin of mine is also celebrating his birthday. I havent meet him in years. I will catch up with him once I get to Mumbai.

About: Sale

Yes long time blogging, I dont know this are coming up and everything is coming in on my plat perhaps more than I can chew, there is training coming up, CAT forms are out, a trip to Mumbai is pending, a few more beer are ready to mpore, I still could not find earphones for my iPod, ts been ages, chinese things works till the point Pankaj Udhas starts sounding like Micheal jackson.Tendulkar slammed 177, i guess I see big innings have silenced the critics for now atleast.

There are friends of mine who often pull my leg but he will always score, doesnt matter if he may not win matches.

I am missing blogging.

Dont be put off, its off by 50%

Well 50% off can u believe it, the problem is it is not any one store, it is across, this post being writen by some one confined is space and time will only talk of local conditions.
Malls are in big time, it is a place where people come like flash flood and only a few buy. There are series of malls which have opened up needless to say the showrooms there are selling it big. The last week was spent going thru the stores and choosing what to but next.It is end of seasons sale, but which season, I mean summer ended as soon as shower poured all over, it is certainly nt end of "rainy" season coz it has not flooded as off yet ...
It was pouring for days before things lite up I hope there are not much rains when I m in Mumbai.I dont hate the rains in Mumbai, i just hate it when i get stuck in traffic, cos its like a system hanging out a power outage u can blame anything.

When do men buy?

I buy when I am in dire straits or when its diwlai I guess I m in dire straights of clothes a pair of denims couple of trousers would pinch a hole but I think I need to have a change of clothes.I am in a look out for :- (go thru it its not much long)

1. Blue Denims, prefferably a darker colour,
2. A red shirt, I am in love iwth that colour but ever seem to find a perfect shade.
3. A white half seelves, I picked up one my friend said "You sure?" I think I wasnt, the size was small,
4. Khakis, I love those something you want to wear when you want a things a bt cooler
5. Black Trousers, not much flat fronts for me I love those pleated stuff. I prefer to be in vague rather than in vogue.
6. A light coloured dark striped shirt.I have loved those as long as I remember. I had one with black strips and lightest of pink colours I use to love wearing it.
7. Cap

Last week, I got a bag for myself. The shopping from Big Bazaar has to give way, coz there is a choice between have to blog it or shop, I prefer the earlier.Me have lots of plans, the training on power plant is about to start, I am looking forward to it.

Man proposes God disposes. Hmmm.... I wish I had a memory recorder, I was thinking on something but then as happens I forgot about it. It is so taxing on self when u want to think about something and the damn thing gets lost in grey/gray :)

Blog: Blogging Sundays.

It doesn’t rains it pours. It is not even pouring it is a heavy down pour of much awaited rains. Mumbai was already an oasis coz of rains I think if it rains at the existing pace, Surat may be deluged again. I pray not but the realistic scene is it has been raining since Saturday night, the week has begun but rains have not stopped. There are rains and there are issues which people would like to avoid. But when u has something you wish then you need to take it as a whole I mean positives and negatives of it.

Will the rose be still beautiful if there were to be no thorns around it?

Hello ….iss route ki saabhi liney ….

Rain rain every where not a drop to drink. A BMC official had remarked that they were ready for the rains, I think he was correct, they were ready but the city of Mumbai wasn’t. News not much of a help. More on News later.

How do u know if the city of Mumbai is flooded if u don’t happen to be living in the city?
Have u ever heard f MTNL. It stands for “Mera Telephone Nahi Lagta.”. The full form was perhaps coined in the last decade of the last century coz MTNL people could never get u a telephone connection in time. I just try to called up my folks, the landline was sounded busy I called up my father courtesy cellphone, it is one of the better things that has happened in India is the past decade. He told me that he was expecting my call and there has been no call on the landline for sometime now. Anyways all said an done.

What do u do when it rains?

You eat corn, can’t have just one, and have two. We people had arranged a vehicle; we can request one in office and tend to get it at times. Well the thing was it was packed it poured we made a few phone calls, Then we reached this theater where the Hindi version of Die Hard 4 was showing. Surat goes berserk on Sundays and there is lots of traffic at certain sections of the town. Anyways we went to this place were Surat people hang out, we had Bhutta (Corn) all spiced and spruced, you could have it all evening dripping in rain which was at times drizzle at times trifle and at times a barrage. They cook it in a different style here; they boil the corn and then roast it without peeling it. I and my friend then we rushed to Big Bazaar bought soaps and detergents and things like those moved out to watch Die Hard. We burned up nearly 1000 rupees in 15 minutes flat. That includes time for standing in the queue paying for the damages of the pocket.

Die Hard 4; Review.

It is an awesome action movie, seen an action movie after a long time, enjoyed it through and through. Spidey 3 was much more of an animation show, this was the real stuff. I think I don’t mind seeing it second time.
There have not been many movies which I have seen more than once on the big scree. One thing is for sure watching it on TV isn’t as fun as it is on the big screen.
No bald man other than Bruce was pulling out this one.

Monday mornings …

Have you seen that Tata Dicor ad I always wanted to quit on Monday mornings…
There isn’t much to quit around at this point in time except the bed and the warmth of the bed sheet.

Passé is …

AB baby’s beard, come on man give us something else.

Media bashing Sachin.

Sachin scoring after the bashing.

Sachin not scoring at “crucial” times.

Bloggers blog blocked.

Being lathergic/Being on the heels

Thinking what if not?

Hot weather, awful hot summer breeze called Loo in Hindi.

Remix Remake, re-remixes re-remakes.

Not calling when ought to.

Encrypted ads.

Misers causing misery to all.

Failed (read Doomed) infrastructure of Mumbai.

Not wanting to get up after a fall.

Bottom Line.

This post is dedicated to all the readers who ever took time out to read what I blogged.It will be two years of me into blogging the fun keeps on growing even if there is a dip in my blogging but I am as excited to blog the most recent post as I was when I posted my first.

Blog: Passing week and traffic.

The WC is over. The Aussie won, what a surprise was that. Anyways I was away to Nagpur for couple of days, there was suppose to be a felicitation but I could not make it.I hope I will be able to see my degree one day in my own two hands.I will wait. I then decided to meet a few people. I met her.... I mean *Her*. It has been an age, 16 months can u believe that? I don't! Anyways Nagpur was hot damn hot and well above 45 degree Celcius. It was damn tiring. But then agony of weather wilted under meeting people. I hope I could meet a few more people there was a long list but then there are plans and there is reality. These don't often share the same photo frame. I was great fun meeting everybody I met. I think many of u know her and some of you don't. She knows some of you and while some of them she is ignorant about some of you.Thats the way life is. I wonder if there is one day where I would be with all my friends I have ever know.It wont happen people are spread too far and wide across the country and I think perhaps the whole globe.

I stayed at this friends place. It was fun living all the old moments. We spent last year of engineering laughing it was fun especially if you look back now. God know when will I learn to not look back at times that have gone back but just a glimpse back at the shoulder sometimes such good times to life.It is so tough to let go of the past. I hope I learn it soon coz you cant grasp future if you have your hands full with the past the only thing you will is get disappointment. It is always tough for me to give 100% of me into everything to what I do. I guess that you got to give it all with dreaming of desired returns, if one starts dreaming of results then one ceases to give 100%. He who ceases to be better ceases to be good.One brick at a time will.But every time.

I don't know but relationships is something I don't discuss much. I thought of it as always a stronger forms of friendship but I slowly realizing it is not only about friendship. I have had good friends some stick some part ways but then you can always catch up with people if time permits. I was wary of relationship I am perhaps still but then gradually all thing do sink in to the realm of understanding provided you are ready to fathom of it. It is something I have not discussed on my blog. I don't understand the whole funda of it. But I have tried explaining it to some of the bloggers.The internet give great anonymity and people listen to you without inhibitions not always without the perceptions though. There is everyone wants attention so if people listen (and appreciate) one feels a bit more relaxed.I don't think I do not mean to divulge too much on relationship beyond this, on relationship it is something one wishes to guard zealously.It is a weird thing to realize and harder to explain it to people around. I think my folks have had a hang of it. But there are a few things which are on priority right now so a few things have to wait.

My father has been transferred back to Mumbai. It has been three years here in Surat. I think it has been a great stay in Surat he has seen it all and perhaps did more then he ever did anywhere in his long career. I happen to meet one of my cousin who I did not knew lived here. Then there are lots more people. Surat has had happy memories. The life in Surat was nothing short of happening, gala social functions, celebrations, ceremonies, floods and all that chaos that happened in last monsoons. This had been more than eventful phase in my parents life.My parents are more than happy to move back to Mumbai. A city where I have spent all my growing years. Surat has to be left when I believe we were almost settling in. Mumbai awaits them among all chaos and madness. The city has different zing no doubt that. I know it as good as anyone. But thats how life is, one has to give their best. I will not be moving to Mumbai. I have a job here in Surat and as my parents shift places things will fast forward career-wise for me. I have a tough training coming up. I last crack at CAT and lots more thing happening. It will be a weird. I will leave my parents after joining them after engineering. I was with them for couple of years and now I will be packing my bags soon. The blogging scene is what I am worried of as my net access in the office has been limited. It is that way all over.Anyways not that I have been blogging a great deal but then it is fun to say the least. I miss blog at times but at times I have justed deleted post half way coz I did not wanted to blog. I simply did not care where my posts were going. A change of template would have been a welcome change for "readers".

It was moer to do with the summers then something else. I wish I knew more graphics and add some special touches but then too much of gloss is something I dont like. I prefer simplicity. I had torrid time fixing colours. Thanks to Z000nie and Sakshi who helped fix a few colours. My hats of to people ho design and keep up web pages great work guys. :) The whole philosophy was to make one's own template. I thought of adding a template from Bloggers and then from other site but settled to being Psycho! I love what I did a few more changes may be done suggestions are welcome.
But don't imagine it to be put up too soon.

The life continues to be at crossroads of dilemma as traffic and weeks go on.

Track Playing: ज़न्दगी का सफर हैं, यह कैसा सफर... (सफर, कीशोर कुमार)

Second Edit.

I got this tag from Keshi. It has been an age since I last did a tag.I think I would do this one. There are not lots of people coz everyone thinks a tag is a bit of drag apart from that here is the tag that goes by the name of Seven.

7 Things I want to do in this lifetime.

1. Go around the seven continents.
2. Own a sexy music system.
3. Make a big study table for myself (atleast design it)
4. Write a book.
5. Meet all my blogger friends.
6. Get into a big B-School. ( I know the frenzy)
7. Push beyond my limits.

7 Things I CAN do.

1. Wake up with an alarm clock.
2. Laugh when no one is around and nothings happened.
3. Bubble inside a bubble from a bubble gum.
4. Pen tricks, swirl and twirl it around the fingers.
5. Stay awake at odd hours. (after lunch for example).
6. Beat deadlines.
7. Buy things for myself.(I have started earning you know :D)

7 things I can't do.

1. Plan.
2. Cry over spilled milk.Move it man keep going.
3. Pull people down.
4. Stay hungry.
5. Learn to spend judiciously.
6. Dance.(I am lazy and still to have the just the right Dance partner.)
7. Keep people waiting.

7 things that attract me to a girl.

1. Eyes.
2. Wit.
3. Girl at ease. (not to fidgetting too much)
4. Long Hair.
5. Smile.
6. Non squeaky voice.
7. No over make up please.

7 Things I say most often.

1. Waat hai boss.
2. आईला.
3. क्या?
4. Cut the crap.
5. Kya baat hai.
6. माँ भूक लगी.
7. Let it be.

It is a short tag if anyone likes it and takes it up please inform me.

Blog: Sunday times.

How is the blogosphere? Wow feels great already, life has been bit of drag while things all round have been racing. It often feels lifes come a full circle. I don't know, but thats true for most things and there are many of them. The seasons has changed I loathe the days but then the watermelons often after dinner tend to soothe things are little. The advent of summers have made sure things are getting hot under the collar and the feeling of life running on the treadmill seems to get more pretense. It is tough being honest with oneself especially if you wiegh yourself with the expectation of people around you. It is tough at times. The worst thing I feel is go one thinking about you. You can't please everyone and you can't please everyone. The only thing is yearn to improve and have a sense of accountability with ones self and I mean being Honest to the core.A little bit of selflessness wont hurt. But why is it something so difficult to do? IS it easy for You to let go of pretensions, worries, stress dilemmas and confusion and everything which makes u questions every damn thing other than your own actions. Why is it tough to follow what the heart says rather then what the mind sees?

I often not do what the instincts says coz my mind/thought process/brain tells me something else. Is it just a Gemini persona or am I trying to say something to myself that I don't want myself to now. The best part of it all is at the end of it you just want to laugh like a cynic. I dont know but often while I am working I have a feel of just Laughing out loud. I love that feeling. I mean you are working on something and all of sudden you hear yourself laughing till your stomach hurts and tears roll off. I had this feeling couple of nights back and I couldn't help myself laughing.

I know it is weird you don't need to irk about it, but being tied down and lonely is something I don't prefer. I mean bring on the people lets roll out some laughs.

Second edit later in the day.

Cricket: WC of wrong reasons

My last post could not been posted coz of poor 'Net connection. But things look a bit better for good and for bad.

Off the filed controvery.

When sport, any sport is in the headlines for non sporting reason there is something out of place. Bob Woolmer was killed, I sensed foul play the instant I heard it. It is so sad. The betting and fixing syndicate is responsible as they say but the plot is wide and thick and things are not what it seems to be. It is a sorry state.

Lossers have anew name.

The Team India / Men in Blue/ God knows what else, bowed out to quick too soon. The Indian team is quiet not what if use to be or what it could be. The team looks brilliant on the paper, but then cricket is not played on paper. The bowling lacked the sting and batting tits (e)steem. It was sorry to see. I dont know what happens next but then Tendulkar bowed out for zero. I have always considered Tendulkar is the greatest run scorer but not the greatest run getter. I dont know the reason for this, he has always made runs never won "enough" matches, the proof is the fact India has not seen enough contribtuions from him especially in Test and in matches we have won. It is disconcerting.

Possible reasons of ouster.

It is just a hypothesis and we never know the exact reason coz such is the nature India Cricket. I think possible reason is some kind of weird psychosis going on were too much is expect in the wrong manner. The psyche seems too be dented and the whole team gets heavy footed for wrong reason.Give up the agony guys put up a fight. I mean fight it out to the best u can do.

I feel the agony has ended coz India would be minnowed under very very mentally tough teams in cricket. Did u saw Aussies cracking SAfs? The world Cup deserves to be with Aussies coz u got be great to snatch it from them. They and only they show how to play cricket. scoring forties and bowling in 125 kmph will take you only one way, out of the world cup. There is a crisis which can be sorted out provided right people are given right responsibilities. RD is a good captain but better selection and better belief and urge to fight on can get one better result provided we stick through people. I think there is complete overhauling necessary, which includes over hauling pitches even at the most localest of place.
The suggestion from my end would play on uncovered pitches coz thats something bowlers need to learn their trait on. The money is no issue coz India Board is one of the richest sports governing body. How is the cricket administration is run is a wonder in itself. The stellar performances at home combines with extra odrinary hype has what got the biggest jolt.The batsmen will need to grind in and spin talent would develop though.
It is the right time to go back to the drawing board. It is a test of an honest and peaceful Team India Fan. Guys just do it, we are there with you. :)

Realty checque for all.

Cricket Admins, Cricketers fans and meida has got the biggest jolts in the recent history. There is no questions that things are not well, but can someone and stand up and take responsibility of having something wrong and say we will set it right. I think they not as physically fit and mental fitness stand at dismal level. The game (as the world) has got more demanding both mentally and physically.
I mean at times one should talk to near one (this is for all not only cricketers) coz sometimes out of anxiety and incorrect perception we park into dilemma when the solutions could be very simple to understand. Those solutions could be tough to apply, but the bad things is they are the only solutions. One has to grind oneself.

Silver cloud and black lining.

India and Pakis ouster means super right has been reduced to super six. The way Hayden played means Aussies are in a firm position to retain the WC which seemed highly unlikely but then who knows. It is the game of glorious uncertainities. I personally want someone else to win just for the sake of change. I think NZ are worth challengers hope Bond bowls them through.

I want to blog and blog coz these days I miss blogging

Blog : Sunday booking

My workplace is beginning to pick up the phase as more and more things come in place and they will reach into chaotic stage before I know. I am struggling to keep pace and jsut to fit the frame I am going back to basics. I think I need to do that coz I am more than rusty. I decided to buy books and bury myself, I have bought couple of books last week and a hut is on for a book on Economics. I have Adam Smith's "Wealth on Nations" soft copy, but me being a conservative in the sense of reading books, prefer the old hard bounded stuff. I got myself a book on Power Plant Engineering and one Thermodynamics. I am searching a book on Economics, if someone could suggest something ....

DDLJ early in the morning.

I love DDLJ. It is an amazing movie. I got up in the morning wanting to listening to the movie's songs, it is afternoon and the songs still continue to play on my comp. I went back to catch up on some TV and DDLJ was playing on some odd channel. The first half was finished so did not watch it. Come fall in love .... hehehehe anyways it remains a fav movie all time.

TV: In 1983 ....

The News Channels are just flogging a dead horse over World Cup, there is no hype. The reason cou ld be "extra" ordinary performances of the Indian Team. I am not betting much onthem, a semi final berth would be good enough. The top there teams for me would be, NZ, SA, and Pak. I am not counting the Aussies out there are there forever, but lacking of bowling options may hurt the Aussies. NZ have shown that. The NEWS is just playing the 1983 all over again, man be at peace, 83 was diff. I laughed when I heard that Kapil Dev passed out of DAV coll and won the WC Yuvraj too has passed out of DAV college .... crap go to bed.

I would be pleasantly suprised if ever get even close to winning, we have run scorers and not match winners, the bowlers are not good enough on form. The Spinners are out of boil. It is a sad case.

Last movie: Eklavaya.

It is a weird story. I dont know if u wish to get in line for the tickets, I just wanted some time out and my father being a big AB fan got the tickets. It is something impossible for me to decipher, relationships is something very very difficult for me to understand, I still loathe them as I have loathed them forever, it is something I cannot comprehend. Anyways there is a King and A queen and a guard who has willed to protect the family. The King kills the queen the princess has shown to be mentally challenged. Paints a picture of what happened, the mystery is unfolded to all. Saif comes home and every one finds out theat Saif is not the Prince, coz the King is not his father, then another round of killings take place every body is killing someone in the movie only the Hero and his son Saif survive till the end provided u survive the movie, Boman is definately good and displays great Panache, so did Munna and Vidya Balan. I guess it is alright if u dont understand the movie just enjoy some great camera work and clothes. The Camel stunt thing was hype than anything else. If one has great interest in checking out the clothes and detailing then one can look forward to a good movie.
I felt the detail of the movie was so paramount in the mids of the director that he actually left the story far beh9ind, I was damn confused when I came out of the movie. I just wanted to bury myself in my sheets. I guess movie making has shifted its focus on better packaging than a better product.

Whats on my mind?

I have been thinking on change of template. I hope bloggers come up with something cool. I have also been seriously thinking of starting a team blog for World Cup 2007. I have contacted Nagraj for once he is interested lets see if things work out.