I read this somewhere...almost as if in answer to my last post...
"Look at life through the windshield and not the rearview mirror!"
Love,
M.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Sometimes...
If life were a highway and the soul just a car…and objects in the rearview mirror were closer than they are!!
Most would consider having a good memory a boon…but sometimes I wish I didn’t remember things so vividly…sometimes I wish I could forget…sometimes I wish everything wasn’t as clear as if it were just yesterday…sometimes I wish it would all be a blur.
Most would consider having a good memory a boon…but sometimes I wish I didn’t remember things so vividly…sometimes I wish I could forget…sometimes I wish everything wasn’t as clear as if it were just yesterday…sometimes I wish it would all be a blur.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Autos and I
Autodrivers – wha
t is it with them ALWAYS making us haggle? Delhi/Noida autos will simply not move according to meters. They’ll quote some ridiculously high price…don’t know what they think when they say that – perhaps they assume we don’t live here and are fools…and will expect you to jump in! Then you rebuke him and what follows is a battle of wits and the question of who gives in first…who’s quoted price wins the race…
I guess the permit issue between Delhi and Noida makes them wary but sometimes works to their advantage as well – since people like me who’re not too fond of buses or taxis (two opposite ends as far as I’m concerned) always resort to autos and eventually have to give in to their demands at some point. Auto-wallahs are also extremely unionized…so if you don’t agree to the price quoted by one, none of the others will go either! That really cheeses me off!
The other day, I was to go for a wedding and this auto-man simply refused to go to Delhi (from Noida) unless I paid him Rs 250 (the usual rate on the route would be not more than Rs 150)…I obviously refused and the man was so adamant, I wanted to report him to the police or something. There should be some kind of rule against asking for ridiculous amounts of money and some redressal measures. Anyway, I refused to go with the man, so all his fellowmen refused to take me anywhere. Don’t know what struck me at that moment and I called a colleague to find out what time he’s leaving from office…luckily he was leaving soon enough for me and I hopped into his car – cursing the auto-wallahs!
Then there are those auto-wallahs who will for some reason make it a point to stop at the CNG station only when I’m in a terrible rush! It’s happened with me way too many times. Once I was on my way to office from Lajpat Nagar (was already running very late) and the man insisted he has to get CNG…and God save you from the queues at CNG stations…took a full 15 minutes and a lot of grumbling at my end to get it over with.
t is it with them ALWAYS making us haggle? Delhi/Noida autos will simply not move according to meters. They’ll quote some ridiculously high price…don’t know what they think when they say that – perhaps they assume we don’t live here and are fools…and will expect you to jump in! Then you rebuke him and what follows is a battle of wits and the question of who gives in first…who’s quoted price wins the race…I guess the permit issue between Delhi and Noida makes them wary but sometimes works to their advantage as well – since people like me who’re not too fond of buses or taxis (two opposite ends as far as I’m concerned) always resort to autos and eventually have to give in to their demands at some point. Auto-wallahs are also extremely unionized…so if you don’t agree to the price quoted by one, none of the others will go either! That really cheeses me off!
The other day, I was to go for a wedding and this auto-man simply refused to go to Delhi (from Noida) unless I paid him Rs 250 (the usual rate on the route would be not more than Rs 150)…I obviously refused and the man was so adamant, I wanted to report him to the police or something. There should be some kind of rule against asking for ridiculous amounts of money and some redressal measures. Anyway, I refused to go with the man, so all his fellowmen refused to take me anywhere. Don’t know what struck me at that moment and I called a colleague to find out what time he’s leaving from office…luckily he was leaving soon enough for me and I hopped into his car – cursing the auto-wallahs!
Then there are those auto-wallahs who will for some reason make it a point to stop at the CNG station only when I’m in a terrible rush! It’s happened with me way too many times. Once I was on my way to office from Lajpat Nagar (was already running very late) and the man insisted he has to get CNG…and God save you from the queues at CNG stations…took a full 15 minutes and a lot of grumbling at my end to get it over with.
I’ve had a few good experiences with them as well. Once I was traveling from Nizamuddin station to my Jhandewalan office. At a red light, a man in orange robes, with a snake wrapped around his neck came asking for money. Now I’m petrified of snakes…tried refusing twice but the man insisted (that’s his job) and just kept getting the slimy creature closer…so I started digging into my purse for coins…the auto-driver then screamed at the snake man and at that moment the light turned green and zoom went my auto-man…. my coins still in my hand. He then severely reprimanded me for encouraging the snake-man. I tried to explain that I don’t pity the man or approve of his begging…I know it’s all a farce…but I just didn’t want the snake anywhere close to me. Of course the auto-man didn’t listen to one word of mine and went on scolding me…he was a kind, old man…said – “aap toh padhe likhe log hain…aapko toh kam se kam aisa nahin karna chahiye”…finally, all I could offer was a nod and a sheepish grin in return! And on reaching Jhandewalan I said ‘thank you’ (not just for driving sanely)…I always thank them – especially the ones who quote reasonable prices, don’t make me haggle, drive sanely and don’t talk incessantly!
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Red
Happy Valentine's Day :)
The colour of the day is of course red... People say it's stupid to celebrate Valentine's Day...but I like it...just the way I like say Friendship Day, Mothers' Day or Fathers' Day! I used to do special things for mom dad on those days..I think it was nice...and I'll revive it this year. Haven't done anything for the last 2-3 years I think. Anyways, I like the works in everything...so I'm all for red and balloons and roses and chocolates - not only on Valentine's but on any day for that matter :) Now since both Neha and I don't have Valentines, we gifted each other red hearts that we can put in our penstands...I even thought we'll order flowers for each other but seemed like a waste considering the prices of flowers touch the sky on this day...Rs 50 for one stem of rose...no, thank you! We'd rather watch a movie, treat ourselves to a good dinner or shop!
I decided I want to wear something red to office...rummaged through my cupboard and decided - this summer my colour will be red - I need red clothes! Finally found a red and black Jaipuri dupatta (it's my favourite) and wore that with my jeans and white sweater...not a bad combo at all :)
Walked into office then and found bunches of red balloons everywhere...lots of people hated it but I didn't mind...sweet of HR to try and do something...and I loooooooooooooooove balloons anyway so I really can't complain ;)
The channel of course is playing love stories - some of them are quite amazing actually...people celebrating their golden anniversaries...wow...wonder what it's like to spend 50 years with someone! Hats off!
Somehow I don't think half of our generation can live with the same person for 50 years...don't think most people have the patience or willingness to compromise...our parents and grandparents were much more accommodating. I'd like to believe that in this case, I'm from their generation :)
Love,
M.
The colour of the day is of course red... People say it's stupid to celebrate Valentine's Day...but I like it...just the way I like say Friendship Day, Mothers' Day or Fathers' Day! I used to do special things for mom dad on those days..I think it was nice...and I'll revive it this year. Haven't done anything for the last 2-3 years I think. Anyways, I like the works in everything...so I'm all for red and balloons and roses and chocolates - not only on Valentine's but on any day for that matter :) Now since both Neha and I don't have Valentines, we gifted each other red hearts that we can put in our penstands...I even thought we'll order flowers for each other but seemed like a waste considering the prices of flowers touch the sky on this day...Rs 50 for one stem of rose...no, thank you! We'd rather watch a movie, treat ourselves to a good dinner or shop!
I decided I want to wear something red to office...rummaged through my cupboard and decided - this summer my colour will be red - I need red clothes! Finally found a red and black Jaipuri dupatta (it's my favourite) and wore that with my jeans and white sweater...not a bad combo at all :)
Walked into office then and found bunches of red balloons everywhere...lots of people hated it but I didn't mind...sweet of HR to try and do something...and I loooooooooooooooove balloons anyway so I really can't complain ;)
The channel of course is playing love stories - some of them are quite amazing actually...people celebrating their golden anniversaries...wow...wonder what it's like to spend 50 years with someone! Hats off!
Somehow I don't think half of our generation can live with the same person for 50 years...don't think most people have the patience or willingness to compromise...our parents and grandparents were much more accommodating. I'd like to believe that in this case, I'm from their generation :)
Love,
M.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
New Year in Kasauli
Hellos to all and sundry…
Been a while…as usual huh?
Well, where to begin? This is my first post in 2007…
Spent New Year at Kasauli with Neha and Shriya at Shriya’s house.
Shriya left one day before us since she had an extra holiday. The journey began with Neha and me traveling to the station in a taxi that took aeons to reach…at one point, we thought we’d miss the train…got stuck just outside the station in a traffic jam so jumped out of the taxi with bag and baggage and barely managed to catch the train in time. It was a shatabdi from Delhi to Kalka. Like schoolgirls, Neha and I bought mushy books to read on the way…food on the train was usual nonsense. When we reached Chandigarh, everyone from our bogie disembarked and only the 2 of us were left in that chair car…with some 4 policemen…I think their presence scared us more than their absence would have! We were wondering how Shriya travels alone in this train. We even called her up to check if we haven’t missed getting off at the right station!
Anyhow, an hour and some goosebumps later, we reached Kalka…were picked up and were driven to Kasauli…it was the WORST hill drive of my life. For one, I hate sitting on the backseats of gypsies…and second, the driver was a maniac! By the time we reached home, Neha and I were giddy and sick…didn’t want to eat for a long time but eventually gave in to aunty pampering us with mushroom pie, fruitcake and what not :)
Next morning, we got dressed and sat in the ‘havan’ that aunty had kept for ‘grihashanti’ (home peace)…who was to know it’s only the beginning of a very religious day :) Then we went to the AFWWA shop and bought some woollen caps and pickles for home. I always buy pickles/jams/juices/oils from hill stations….(read Nainital, Manali)…Neha and I bought similar caps, Shriya already had one…so throughout the trip we looked like a set of triplets!
Next we climbed up a hill to reach a Hanuman temple…don’t know what it is with all temples being located on hill tops in hill stations for some reason…anyhow, the treks are always good…enjoyed it…everyone went barring uncle and aunty…Agrim and Priya had also come over for new year’s…
So we reached the top…I always enjoy making wishes so I did…and well, when you’re trekking up all the way, you might as well wish just to make it more worthwhile…no offence meant dear God!! :)
We had maggi and coffee at this little cafetaria near the temple…funny how maggi lands up in all corners of the country…tasted heavenly on that freezing morning…
Don’t know why but just didn’t like the Kasauli cold…see, as it is I feel extra cold…but Kasauli had that ‘biting’cold, unlike Delhi…gets freezing in Delhi as well but somehow I don’t mind it so much…not so painful! By the end of it, I was of the opinion that 2 days were more than enough in this weather…I couldn’t have survived another one!
So anyway, later that evening after delicious ‘chhola bhaturas’, we walked down to Mall Road…encountered some hooting and cat-calling on the way…followed by a couple who’d lost their way. We first went to this 205-year-old church…(religious day, remember?)…it was simply beauuuuuuuuu-ti-fulllll!!! I love churches…they give me a sense of calm and serenity…we lit candles, wished for some things yet again – third time in the day and then asked Father if we could indulge in photography…he allowed us to and even told us that the church features in ‘Golu ki Goggles’ – a weekly show on Star Plus!!! Click click click we went…
Next we walked down mall road, inspecting shops…Shriya bought a gift for Agrim…then we continued and went gaga over some hand-knit shawls…and the shopping freaks that Neha and I are…we bought 2 each (that after Shriya refused to let me buy more than 2!). One was for Ruchi anyway, so in essence I bought only one :)
Now we proceeded to a coffee shop – loud music, bonfire et al. The coffee and french-fries next to the bonfire were simply awesome! Then we walked back uphill, clicked a snap outside Rahul Bose’s dad’s house…just for kicks…and then huffed and puffed our way up…thankfully, uncle came half way to pick us up…it was just getting way toooooooo cold! Reached home, snuggled up in bed for 2 hours, sent new year messages to friends and then got ready to go for the new year party.
We all first went to Kasauli resort…danced there for a while and had some snacks…Uncle aunty were invited elsewhere as well so they took us along. Now this place was someone’s house…mansion, rather! We reached and commandos were all over the place – their security apparently…these people are the manufacturers of some jams, pickles, juices etc…stinking rich! But the party was such a boreeeeeeeeeeeee…the music was awful – some ghazal guy who couldn’t sing to save his life and sang sad songs to top it all! Neha, Shriya and I were wondering why we didn’t stay back at the Kasauli resort and continue having fun? We were so so bored…even the people were boring…we’d have had more fun just being at home together! Anyways, the house was beautiful and the food was delicious…everywhere there were snaps of the man with Rajiv Gandhi & Sonia Gandhi!
There was cake and champagne at midnight...no I don't drink...
Made phone calls at midnight...wished ma, pa, bhai....bhai was celebrating New Year in Venice...awesome fun!
Anyhow, we left around 2:00 am and went home and cut Agrim’s birthday cake…I was too full to eat more cake…had eaten so much all day!
The next day, we went back to the AFWWA shop as Neha wanted to shop…came back, lunched and sat on the garden swing…these guys were going back to climb the mountain upto the temple but this time I didn’t accompany them. Had a terrible headache, was shivering and feeling feverish. So I stayed at home, lay in bed and watched tv. Had missed news for the last 2 days so caught up with it…learnt there was stone pelting and mob rage happening in Nithari over the skeletons found at D-5, learnt Chandralekha died…felt bad…I’ve been to her house and met her once while we were studying at ACJ. We had our Art and Culture get together there…
Anyways, so these guys got back and we walked over to the mess – nothing unusual about it – another regular Air Force mess! Later in the night we packed and went off to sleep, got up at 3:30 am to drive down to Kalka and catch the train back to Delhi. The journey back was gone in the slumber…reached home, all rushed for baths one by one and hit office by noon…back to square one – in the new year with some new beginnings :)
Been a while…as usual huh?
Well, where to begin? This is my first post in 2007…
Spent New Year at Kasauli with Neha and Shriya at Shriya’s house.
Shriya left one day before us since she had an extra holiday. The journey began with Neha and me traveling to the station in a taxi that took aeons to reach…at one point, we thought we’d miss the train…got stuck just outside the station in a traffic jam so jumped out of the taxi with bag and baggage and barely managed to catch the train in time. It was a shatabdi from Delhi to Kalka. Like schoolgirls, Neha and I bought mushy books to read on the way…food on the train was usual nonsense. When we reached Chandigarh, everyone from our bogie disembarked and only the 2 of us were left in that chair car…with some 4 policemen…I think their presence scared us more than their absence would have! We were wondering how Shriya travels alone in this train. We even called her up to check if we haven’t missed getting off at the right station!
Anyhow, an hour and some goosebumps later, we reached Kalka…were picked up and were driven to Kasauli…it was the WORST hill drive of my life. For one, I hate sitting on the backseats of gypsies…and second, the driver was a maniac! By the time we reached home, Neha and I were giddy and sick…didn’t want to eat for a long time but eventually gave in to aunty pampering us with mushroom pie, fruitcake and what not :)
Next morning, we got dressed and sat in the ‘havan’ that aunty had kept for ‘grihashanti’ (home peace)…who was to know it’s only the beginning of a very religious day :) Then we went to the AFWWA shop and bought some woollen caps and pickles for home. I always buy pickles/jams/juices/oils from hill stations….(read Nainital, Manali)…Neha and I bought similar caps, Shriya already had one…so throughout the trip we looked like a set of triplets!
Next we climbed up a hill to reach a Hanuman temple…don’t know what it is with all temples being located on hill tops in hill stations for some reason…anyhow, the treks are always good…enjoyed it…everyone went barring uncle and aunty…Agrim and Priya had also come over for new year’s…
So we reached the top…I always enjoy making wishes so I did…and well, when you’re trekking up all the way, you might as well wish just to make it more worthwhile…no offence meant dear God!! :)
We had maggi and coffee at this little cafetaria near the temple…funny how maggi lands up in all corners of the country…tasted heavenly on that freezing morning…
Don’t know why but just didn’t like the Kasauli cold…see, as it is I feel extra cold…but Kasauli had that ‘biting’cold, unlike Delhi…gets freezing in Delhi as well but somehow I don’t mind it so much…not so painful! By the end of it, I was of the opinion that 2 days were more than enough in this weather…I couldn’t have survived another one!
So anyway, later that evening after delicious ‘chhola bhaturas’, we walked down to Mall Road…encountered some hooting and cat-calling on the way…followed by a couple who’d lost their way. We first went to this 205-year-old church…(religious day, remember?)…it was simply beauuuuuuuuu-ti-fulllll!!! I love churches…they give me a sense of calm and serenity…we lit candles, wished for some things yet again – third time in the day and then asked Father if we could indulge in photography…he allowed us to and even told us that the church features in ‘Golu ki Goggles’ – a weekly show on Star Plus!!! Click click click we went…
Next we walked down mall road, inspecting shops…Shriya bought a gift for Agrim…then we continued and went gaga over some hand-knit shawls…and the shopping freaks that Neha and I are…we bought 2 each (that after Shriya refused to let me buy more than 2!). One was for Ruchi anyway, so in essence I bought only one :)
Now we proceeded to a coffee shop – loud music, bonfire et al. The coffee and french-fries next to the bonfire were simply awesome! Then we walked back uphill, clicked a snap outside Rahul Bose’s dad’s house…just for kicks…and then huffed and puffed our way up…thankfully, uncle came half way to pick us up…it was just getting way toooooooo cold! Reached home, snuggled up in bed for 2 hours, sent new year messages to friends and then got ready to go for the new year party.
We all first went to Kasauli resort…danced there for a while and had some snacks…Uncle aunty were invited elsewhere as well so they took us along. Now this place was someone’s house…mansion, rather! We reached and commandos were all over the place – their security apparently…these people are the manufacturers of some jams, pickles, juices etc…stinking rich! But the party was such a boreeeeeeeeeeeee…the music was awful – some ghazal guy who couldn’t sing to save his life and sang sad songs to top it all! Neha, Shriya and I were wondering why we didn’t stay back at the Kasauli resort and continue having fun? We were so so bored…even the people were boring…we’d have had more fun just being at home together! Anyways, the house was beautiful and the food was delicious…everywhere there were snaps of the man with Rajiv Gandhi & Sonia Gandhi!
There was cake and champagne at midnight...no I don't drink...
Made phone calls at midnight...wished ma, pa, bhai....bhai was celebrating New Year in Venice...awesome fun!
Anyhow, we left around 2:00 am and went home and cut Agrim’s birthday cake…I was too full to eat more cake…had eaten so much all day!
The next day, we went back to the AFWWA shop as Neha wanted to shop…came back, lunched and sat on the garden swing…these guys were going back to climb the mountain upto the temple but this time I didn’t accompany them. Had a terrible headache, was shivering and feeling feverish. So I stayed at home, lay in bed and watched tv. Had missed news for the last 2 days so caught up with it…learnt there was stone pelting and mob rage happening in Nithari over the skeletons found at D-5, learnt Chandralekha died…felt bad…I’ve been to her house and met her once while we were studying at ACJ. We had our Art and Culture get together there…
Anyways, so these guys got back and we walked over to the mess – nothing unusual about it – another regular Air Force mess! Later in the night we packed and went off to sleep, got up at 3:30 am to drive down to Kalka and catch the train back to Delhi. The journey back was gone in the slumber…reached home, all rushed for baths one by one and hit office by noon…back to square one – in the new year with some new beginnings :)
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Practical jokes...
Just had to say that playing practical jokes is the best! After a looooooooooooooooooooooong time, I'm having a good good laugh (yes the joke is continuing)...it's just too much fun! Cannot reveal it yet - will do once the veil is lifted! But I'm loving it :)
Life isn't much without laughter and it's been missing in my life for a while. No no, not that I'm depressed or anything...just that I haven't played pranks in a while and I actually didn't realize that I'm missing it! Was so caught up with work, home, responsibilities, some other tangles...and lost out on the FUN!!! But now it's back - atleast for the time being!
Ciao,
M.
Life isn't much without laughter and it's been missing in my life for a while. No no, not that I'm depressed or anything...just that I haven't played pranks in a while and I actually didn't realize that I'm missing it! Was so caught up with work, home, responsibilities, some other tangles...and lost out on the FUN!!! But now it's back - atleast for the time being!
Ciao,
M.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Happy Feet :)
My feet are feeling good after a nice pedicure...finally managed to take out time for it :)
-M.
-M.
Travel time...
Hello blog,
I know I know I've been away for a looooooooooong time...so here I am with an update! It's been a busy few months...and will be till november (as of now). Been travelling a little and it's fun. Saw some smallish towns and villages....got a feel of the real rural India...and some real people - their problems, their dreams, their joys, sorrows, aspirations. Most people that I came across were so down to earth, pleasant and helpful. It's funny how people in metros will have everything but humanity and how in villages it's the other way round. It's amazing how these people have never been to school and yet have more knowledge than 'educated' people! Their innovations are spellbinding! Was a wonderful learning experience...looking forward to more stuff but after a short break please!!!!! I'm just a wee bit tired of the jet-setting life I've had over the last 2 weeks :)
Met two talkative people in the train last night who insisted on drawing my cameraperson and me into their conversation. They overheard our talk of investments, PPF etc and then began a discussion ranging from investments to marketing to journalism to education to malls to infrastructure development in gurgaon, faridabad, noida etc to law and TTs fleecing people and more - all in the span of less than 2 hours!!! Turned out to be fun in the end :)
On another note, I'm not excited about Diwali this year for some reason. Just seems futile to dress up and sit around considering I don't burn crackers!
By the way, I have revived my Jazz classes that I'd left some 3 years ago....this time with Ashley Lobo and not Shiamak Davar. It's a good 2-hour sunday morning workout. Missed it last sunday due to travel :( Flatmates also missed it for different reasons so the 3 of us will look like morons this sunday - gaping while others dance! Those instructors have such amazingly flexi bodies...needless to say I'm envious. Everything looks simple when you look at them doing it - turns out to be a different ballgame altogether once you try doing it!!!!
Anyhow, more later...I have a few things to take care of right now...
Ciao,
M.
I know I know I've been away for a looooooooooong time...so here I am with an update! It's been a busy few months...and will be till november (as of now). Been travelling a little and it's fun. Saw some smallish towns and villages....got a feel of the real rural India...and some real people - their problems, their dreams, their joys, sorrows, aspirations. Most people that I came across were so down to earth, pleasant and helpful. It's funny how people in metros will have everything but humanity and how in villages it's the other way round. It's amazing how these people have never been to school and yet have more knowledge than 'educated' people! Their innovations are spellbinding! Was a wonderful learning experience...looking forward to more stuff but after a short break please!!!!! I'm just a wee bit tired of the jet-setting life I've had over the last 2 weeks :)
Met two talkative people in the train last night who insisted on drawing my cameraperson and me into their conversation. They overheard our talk of investments, PPF etc and then began a discussion ranging from investments to marketing to journalism to education to malls to infrastructure development in gurgaon, faridabad, noida etc to law and TTs fleecing people and more - all in the span of less than 2 hours!!! Turned out to be fun in the end :)
On another note, I'm not excited about Diwali this year for some reason. Just seems futile to dress up and sit around considering I don't burn crackers!
By the way, I have revived my Jazz classes that I'd left some 3 years ago....this time with Ashley Lobo and not Shiamak Davar. It's a good 2-hour sunday morning workout. Missed it last sunday due to travel :( Flatmates also missed it for different reasons so the 3 of us will look like morons this sunday - gaping while others dance! Those instructors have such amazingly flexi bodies...needless to say I'm envious. Everything looks simple when you look at them doing it - turns out to be a different ballgame altogether once you try doing it!!!!
Anyhow, more later...I have a few things to take care of right now...
Ciao,
M.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Monday, July 17, 2006
Bodies, gore and journalism...
Sometimes I wonder, will seeing bodies and gore make me immune to it? I've come across journalists who see these and feel nothing because they're so used to it. After all, in India every other day there are deaths in Kashmir due to grenade attacks, in Maharashtra due to farmers' suicides, then there are the bomb blasts, the fires, the terror attacks, the natural disasters and the list goes on.
I only hope I won't lose the compassion I have and I hope never get 'used to' seeing things like this. I'd like it to remain like this - where these things affect me, even upset me incredibly like they do at the moment....for it means I'm still human and have not been devoured by my profession.
I only hope I won't lose the compassion I have and I hope never get 'used to' seeing things like this. I'd like it to remain like this - where these things affect me, even upset me incredibly like they do at the moment....for it means I'm still human and have not been devoured by my profession.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Ankahee
Just got tempted to post one more thing...
Please do NOT ever think of watching Ankahee under ANY circumstances! Every character in the movie is fighting for the award of "most irritating character" including the kid! Other than that, the less said, the better!
Yes, you're probably saying 'who in the world asked you to go for it?' Just that we live a stone's throw away from a multiplex so the other night we wanted to go and watch a late night show and Ankahee was the only show at that time...so we just went for it! Anyhow, I strongly recommend you avoid the movie.
Ciao,
M.
Please do NOT ever think of watching Ankahee under ANY circumstances! Every character in the movie is fighting for the award of "most irritating character" including the kid! Other than that, the less said, the better!
Yes, you're probably saying 'who in the world asked you to go for it?' Just that we live a stone's throw away from a multiplex so the other night we wanted to go and watch a late night show and Ankahee was the only show at that time...so we just went for it! Anyhow, I strongly recommend you avoid the movie.
Ciao,
M.
I'm alive and kicking...
Yes people I'm alive even though the blog has been dead for a while...
Just discovered that blogger.com is no longer blocked in my office:)
That's not to say that I couldn't post from elsewhere...had just lost the inclination to write for a while and I'm not sure if it's totally back yet!
It was a nice feeling to see that people want me to update and that I guess is partly why I'm writing this particular post...just to say that no the blog isn't dead - not yet! But it makes me wonder what people find so interesting in this blog...I mean why would anyone be interested in my dull, drab life? And complete strangers too? But yes, it's a humbling feeling and I'm not complaining one bit :)
Been extremely busy with work but getting more satisfaction out of it now that my profile has changed...more fun and more meaning.
Apart from that, phew...there's so much that I haven't written on the blog! But I'll save that for another time...hope to write in more regularly now.
Ciao.
-M.
Just discovered that blogger.com is no longer blocked in my office:)
That's not to say that I couldn't post from elsewhere...had just lost the inclination to write for a while and I'm not sure if it's totally back yet!
It was a nice feeling to see that people want me to update and that I guess is partly why I'm writing this particular post...just to say that no the blog isn't dead - not yet! But it makes me wonder what people find so interesting in this blog...I mean why would anyone be interested in my dull, drab life? And complete strangers too? But yes, it's a humbling feeling and I'm not complaining one bit :)
Been extremely busy with work but getting more satisfaction out of it now that my profile has changed...more fun and more meaning.
Apart from that, phew...there's so much that I haven't written on the blog! But I'll save that for another time...hope to write in more regularly now.
Ciao.
-M.
Friday, March 17, 2006
On the spur of the moment
I like being adventurous and doing things on the spur of the moment. So when my office told me that I could take the day off for holi, I was quite excited. I wasn't supposed to have an off - never did on Eid or Makar Sankranti or Republic Day or whatever. Apparently, there's a new rule now, according to which everyone gets offs in rotation. So, some people were off on Holi and others will be off on the next holiday.
Anyhow, coming to the point... mom dad had gone to Agra for holi so I decided I want to go too! I found out a travel agent in my sector, booked a ticket, booked a taxi to take me to the station at 5 a.m. and there I was sitting in the shatabdi to Agra. It was so much fun. I didn't do much more than making a few calls and collecting my ticket from an Uncle's place but the whole thing somehow gave me a sense of independence. The drive to the station gave me a feeling of exhilaration. Any city is so different in the wee hours of the morning. I remember driving back from ACJ in Chennai at 4 a.m. I just loved driving on the road by the Marina and driving at those unearthly hours (a 2-wheeler at that) used to make me feel so free for some reason. Sigh...I'm missing ACJ now:( I also loved observing the sounds of the night time and I love to look at the night sky. I must say the night sky is the best in the north-east - so bright and clear. In Shillong, I'd be on the terrace for an hour every night - just looking at the stars, finding constellations or making up my own!
Anyway, my trip to Agra was good. Didn't play holi, just met up relatives, cousins, niece and nephew! The little angels are as cute as ever. I think these sudden spurts of vacation can sometimes be more refreshing than the well-planned holidays. Ok I think it's time to log off. Ciao.
-M.
Anyhow, coming to the point... mom dad had gone to Agra for holi so I decided I want to go too! I found out a travel agent in my sector, booked a ticket, booked a taxi to take me to the station at 5 a.m. and there I was sitting in the shatabdi to Agra. It was so much fun. I didn't do much more than making a few calls and collecting my ticket from an Uncle's place but the whole thing somehow gave me a sense of independence. The drive to the station gave me a feeling of exhilaration. Any city is so different in the wee hours of the morning. I remember driving back from ACJ in Chennai at 4 a.m. I just loved driving on the road by the Marina and driving at those unearthly hours (a 2-wheeler at that) used to make me feel so free for some reason. Sigh...I'm missing ACJ now:( I also loved observing the sounds of the night time and I love to look at the night sky. I must say the night sky is the best in the north-east - so bright and clear. In Shillong, I'd be on the terrace for an hour every night - just looking at the stars, finding constellations or making up my own!
Anyway, my trip to Agra was good. Didn't play holi, just met up relatives, cousins, niece and nephew! The little angels are as cute as ever. I think these sudden spurts of vacation can sometimes be more refreshing than the well-planned holidays. Ok I think it's time to log off. Ciao.
-M.
Sunday, March 12, 2006
?????
Yo-yo/Ping pong ball - those are things I can identify myself with these days. Why are people so inconsistent in their thoughts/actions? Can't they make up their minds and stay that way forever? Or atleast for a reasonably long period of time?
Why am I expected to understand and adjust my thoughts/actions/feelings according to what people around me think/act/feel?
Can I have some stability in my life? Is that too much to ask for?
And can I stop adjusting and give up? Why is that never an option for me? Why is it something I find hard to consider, let alone try?
Why is nothing ever ENOUGH?
Is it ever going to be? Is there any point in trying yet another time?
Why am I expected to understand and adjust my thoughts/actions/feelings according to what people around me think/act/feel?
Can I have some stability in my life? Is that too much to ask for?
And can I stop adjusting and give up? Why is that never an option for me? Why is it something I find hard to consider, let alone try?
Why is nothing ever ENOUGH?
Is it ever going to be? Is there any point in trying yet another time?
Gibberish
Raindrops, wind, sunshine, twilight
Success, failure, day and night
Happiness, sorrow, joy, pain
Shadow, light, power, fame
Body, soul, life, death
Love, hatred and loneliness
-M
Success, failure, day and night
Happiness, sorrow, joy, pain
Shadow, light, power, fame
Body, soul, life, death
Love, hatred and loneliness
-M
Friday, February 17, 2006
Existential Crisis
What do I really want from my life?
What do I want to be doing say 5 or 10 years down the line?
Where am I heading?
Am I heading in the right direction?
Or am I static here?
What do I do to be where I want to be?
And how do I know where I want to be?
I've always maintained that contentment is the key to happiness...
How do I find it?
What do I want to be doing say 5 or 10 years down the line?
Where am I heading?
Am I heading in the right direction?
Or am I static here?
What do I do to be where I want to be?
And how do I know where I want to be?
I've always maintained that contentment is the key to happiness...
How do I find it?
Saturday, January 28, 2006
Narnia & Rang De...
Ok, I've seen both the movies. Liked both. Over to Narnia first (in order of watching) - it's a brilliantly made film and kids will love it (that is not to say I'm a kid). If you like magical lands, witches and a war between the good and the evil then this is for you. The locales are beautiful, the kids very good at their parts. The witch's role is played brilliantly by Tilda Swinton and the lion 'Aslan' is oh! so lovable!!!
Now about Rang De Basanti...it's brilliant. A very fresh concept and simply awesome cinematography, screenplay and direction. Must hand it to Rakeysh Mehra for the idea itself. Aamir perfectionist Khan is his usual flawless self and Alice Patten has done a great job. Soha Ali Khan is extremely good as well. I'm a fan of Sharman Joshi and Kunal Kapoor now! In fact, all of them acted really well. The first half of the film was truly amazing, the humour not cheesy but simply fun. The second half, I thought was just a wee bit over the top but all in all it's a film not worth missing.
So, I've watched two films on 2 consecutive days...correction - 2 consecutive working days! Feels great especially because the movie hall is right behind my house and no other PVR offers 50 buck tickets (only for shows before 1:00 pm). At this rate, I can watch just about any movie in the hall!
Other than that, mom is out of town so tomorrow it's my day out with Daddy. Let's see what we'll do...maybe we'll go out shopping and stuff. Have to make a plan.
Ciao later then,
-M.
Now about Rang De Basanti...it's brilliant. A very fresh concept and simply awesome cinematography, screenplay and direction. Must hand it to Rakeysh Mehra for the idea itself. Aamir perfectionist Khan is his usual flawless self and Alice Patten has done a great job. Soha Ali Khan is extremely good as well. I'm a fan of Sharman Joshi and Kunal Kapoor now! In fact, all of them acted really well. The first half of the film was truly amazing, the humour not cheesy but simply fun. The second half, I thought was just a wee bit over the top but all in all it's a film not worth missing.
So, I've watched two films on 2 consecutive days...correction - 2 consecutive working days! Feels great especially because the movie hall is right behind my house and no other PVR offers 50 buck tickets (only for shows before 1:00 pm). At this rate, I can watch just about any movie in the hall!
Other than that, mom is out of town so tomorrow it's my day out with Daddy. Let's see what we'll do...maybe we'll go out shopping and stuff. Have to make a plan.
Ciao later then,
-M.
Thursday, January 26, 2006
R-Day and more
Happy Republic Day:)
So, India completes 57 years as a republic. 57 years...wow, that's a long time. No, this post is not meant to write on what we've achieved and what we've not. I was just wondering if republic day or even Independence day can ever bond Indians together half as well as an Indo-Pak cricket match can!
Anyhow, the channel looks great today:) We had some fab stories and programmes. I'm quite hooked on to it. The naitonal anthem sung by the top voices of the country was particularly touching. I stood up in my drawing room...somehow, I just cannot remain seated while the anthem is on and I'm glad I have my patriotism in place. The office is full of flags today...couple of them on each desk. I quite like it:)
On a completely different note, Ruch came over to my place last night. We had a nice dinner at Pizza Hut. While we were having dinner, Ankur called and said - "Hi, where are you?" I said, "Having dinner at Pizza Hut. Where are you?" And he says, "I'm at your place...came to say hi to Ruchi!!" Poor thing! Whenever he tries to give me a surprise, something like this happens...this is the second time he's come home without telling me and not found me there!!! Some timing we have, huh?
Anyhow, Ruch & I went home & called him & then all three of us went out for ice-cream - in our sector only. It was fun - walking in the chilly night with my two best friends, eating an ice-cream & chatting & laughing. One of the times that I'm going to cherish. It was like what Boman Irani said in Bluffmaster about remembering 30 happy days of your life - this is definitely one of them:)
Today morning, Ruch & I went to the Spice Mall & while walking back, we bumped into an old hostel friend. It was wonderful to meet her after such a long time. We just stood by the roadside, catching up on each other's lives. It was such a nice feeling. She's just the same...same funny, warm, talkative girl. We exchanged numbers & it turns out she lives in my sector only. We'll hopefully be in touch now.
Then Ruch and I had brunch at Mc D (so much for my gymming) & I dropped her off to an auto and both of us proceeded to our respective work places.
Other than that, I'm going for the Chronicles of Narnia with Ankur tomorrow morning. Will update you on the movie tomorrow.
Ciao,
-M.
So, India completes 57 years as a republic. 57 years...wow, that's a long time. No, this post is not meant to write on what we've achieved and what we've not. I was just wondering if republic day or even Independence day can ever bond Indians together half as well as an Indo-Pak cricket match can!
Anyhow, the channel looks great today:) We had some fab stories and programmes. I'm quite hooked on to it. The naitonal anthem sung by the top voices of the country was particularly touching. I stood up in my drawing room...somehow, I just cannot remain seated while the anthem is on and I'm glad I have my patriotism in place. The office is full of flags today...couple of them on each desk. I quite like it:)
On a completely different note, Ruch came over to my place last night. We had a nice dinner at Pizza Hut. While we were having dinner, Ankur called and said - "Hi, where are you?" I said, "Having dinner at Pizza Hut. Where are you?" And he says, "I'm at your place...came to say hi to Ruchi!!" Poor thing! Whenever he tries to give me a surprise, something like this happens...this is the second time he's come home without telling me and not found me there!!! Some timing we have, huh?
Anyhow, Ruch & I went home & called him & then all three of us went out for ice-cream - in our sector only. It was fun - walking in the chilly night with my two best friends, eating an ice-cream & chatting & laughing. One of the times that I'm going to cherish. It was like what Boman Irani said in Bluffmaster about remembering 30 happy days of your life - this is definitely one of them:)
Today morning, Ruch & I went to the Spice Mall & while walking back, we bumped into an old hostel friend. It was wonderful to meet her after such a long time. We just stood by the roadside, catching up on each other's lives. It was such a nice feeling. She's just the same...same funny, warm, talkative girl. We exchanged numbers & it turns out she lives in my sector only. We'll hopefully be in touch now.
Then Ruch and I had brunch at Mc D (so much for my gymming) & I dropped her off to an auto and both of us proceeded to our respective work places.
Other than that, I'm going for the Chronicles of Narnia with Ankur tomorrow morning. Will update you on the movie tomorrow.
Ciao,
-M.
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