The most populous democracy of the world, is going under the tantrum of the ministers, who come and show their face only once in five years. Yeah people, election time has come, and the Dance of Democracy (courtesy TOI) is on. 543 seats, 2 big parties with a number of regional and small parties, with innumerable independents, all trying their luck, singing the tune of what good job they can do, if elected to power. They try to create a vibe across the voters by taking up the sensuous issues among them. Secularism, a word which was later added in the Indian constitution, has become a drop of nectar for these politicians. Every potter is praising its own pot, telling that it’s the best buy, so please buy.
Let’s discuss about two big parties here. I am trying my best not to be inclined to either of them in my discussion. Congress, our rulers for more than 40 years, out of 60 odd years are the front runners. They are currently in power and that’s the only concern for them. People remember well what they have done in last five years. For older governments, its older stories, and people here forget things fast. So the short comings they incurred in this tenure are more highlighted by their oppositions. While their step towards development, employment, rural growth, nuclear deal was appreciating, but their approach towards internal and external security, playing with CBI to an extent, rising prices, and inflation turning to deflation, which is equally harmful have poured water on their hard work. Their ignorance towards the black money in tax havens and avoiding this topic, as well as no mention of health issues like global warming and others all in their manifesto is a strategic weak link. Manmohan Singh is even termed as a weak leader, which he accepted also in a conference, and also jeered as a puppet in hands of Sonia Gandhi.
BJP, the party in opposition, had already gained the default battleground. As I told before, being in opposition is always a positive for forthcoming elections. But they somehow received an initial jolt, because of hate speech given by Mr Varun Gandhi. The only good thing the leaders of the party did, that they sidelined themselves from this controversy, and never supported Varun’s comments, even though went ahead with Varun. Another good thing they did was to declare L K Advani as the PM candidate for NDA. At least people know whom they are voting for. Not like, UPA where they still don’t have a consensus, on who is the person to sit on the most valuable chair. Godhra incident, attacks on parliament, kandhar hijack (this issue was never discussed in 2004 elections) were few to put a dent on BJP’s image. Advani can be booed too because of his statements made in Pakistan and his hands in demolition of Babri Mosque.
In short what I meant was both the parties are going through almost the same phase. Little good work followed by lots of responsibilities. But neither of them will be able to reach the magic figure of 272 alone, that’s the prediction in the house. They will have to take support of the smaller and regional parties to come into the power, and they will be the biggest beneficiaries. Generally, these regional parties are limited to 1 or 2 states and they claim vote on the basis of caste, creed, race or religion. Rural people somehow seem to be ignorant of these people’s games. They think that their own people can protect and help them well than anyone else. Instead if they keep account of what people have done in past and vote, then I am sure most of these regional parties will be down the drain, and the independents will have a higher value. But their emotional atyachaar always brings them a rich dividend.
Anyways my piece is not for discussing the politics. That’s a very dirty game, and I don’t want dirt on my blogs. So stay away wise people. Elections are happening in four phases this time, and Bangalore was scheduled to go under the knife on 23rd April. Continuous ads from jaagore and a firm push from my mother forced me to register myself for this election. 25th march was the last day for submitting the form, and that very day I was standing in the queue to submit the Form 6, form for enrolling your name in the voter list. For those, who are new, and still waiting for elections, Voter ID card is not mandatory for voting, but you must have your name on the electoral rolls. This form 6 is related to that itself. Then finally one fine morning around 3-4 days before the scheduled election, I got a mail telling that my name has been included in the rolls. Unfortunately the rolls were written in Kannada, and it was looking as if they have spread ink on the blotting paper. Then I took help of one of my colleague, and got her read out that it was Gaurav Kumar written there. :) Here I am coming on the D-day, to make my 1 vote count.
This was my first legal voting. Before this I have voted once in 1999 elections. I was in my +2 then in Ranchi. I was staying in a PG, and a polling booth was there just next to it in a school. We had leave on that day and we were enjoying it. In the late afternoon, around 4 pm, our PG owner came and asked us If we want to vote or not. Then he gave us an offer. If we all go out and vote for BJP nicely, we will get a great treat in evening. Ramtahal Chaudhary was the famous candidate. We were 7 people then in the PG. We all went there, entered and started putting vote. There was no EVM then, you have to put a stamp on your choice of candidate, fold it and keep inside the box. It seemed as if all the polling officers were bribed as they were not objecting at all. Till 4 pm there was around 20% turnout on the booth. Within 30 minutes, we seven had put around 600 votes together. One of my friend and me were leaders with 150 each. Till last time I was in touch with him, he used to claim that he had voted 4 more than me, but truth is 150 each. The turnout was marked as 72%, record for the entire Ranchi then. We were willing to do more, but we were restricted to, as then it would had got cancelled. That evening there was a big party in our PG, chicken was the common dish as usual, but we enjoyed it lot. Next day when we saw in paper that this booth has witnessed the highest turnout, we had a hidden satisfaction. But still that was an illegal act, and I can still be put behind bars. He he he.
But this time it was all legal. I was authorized to pick up a candidate. I got up early that day, and since election process had started as early as 7 am, I didn’t waste much time and was out for it at 8.30. As soon as I reached near my polling booth, I saw many tents put up by different parties. They were calling me, so that I can furnish my details, and they can give me the token to get inside the booth. I had seen this setup in my previous voting experience. It was like a déjà-vu. I went to one stall, belonging to JD(S). I told my name, and I knew my name was in last page, so like some Kannada expert I told him to go to that page, and pointed where my name was. He would have surely thought that I am some Kannada expert. Anyway, he saw my name, since photo was not there in the rolls; he asked if I have identity proof with me. After my positive nod, he wrote the details on the token, and I headed towards the booth, another 50 meters from there.
Fatima English School was my center, which was a booth for three different wards. Mine was ward 201. I asked one police person there, and he showed me the way. In the queue, there were jus 4 people standing there. I stood behind them. One person on duty confirmed with my token, and they were allowing 1 person at a time. Outside, they had displayed the structure and positioning of candidates on EVM. I glanced that nicely. I would have waited for around 3-4 minutes, when he asked me to go inside. One lady asked my serial number, checked that and asked for my identity proof. This was the first time my passport came into any use. If not for travel, let it be for voting. She verified it and asked me to go ahead. Next came, a person with a book, where I had to put signature that I am exercising my voting rights. Then next was a person who was supposed to put ink on my left index finger. I was so excited that I could feel little shiver inside me. After all I was going to be the part of electing a person for next 5 years. He had put that ink nicely on my finger, that even after 4 days, its still in tact. Then I was headed to a corner, where EVM was kept, covered by cartoons from all 3 sides. The person who had put the ink was too much desired to see what I do, and he was peeping. But my stare drove him back straight in his seat. I pressed the desired button, and it flashed a red color, stating that it was successful, followed by a small beep. It was all over. The fun ended. He asked me to leave the room from the other door.
At times, we are very blatant while complaining about the system and the law. But we forget that we are the people who initiate the process of formation of the entire system. Without complaining about them, if we spend little time on enquiring about the right and eligible candidate and go out and vote for him, we can secure our next 5 years. There is no guarantee that a party is good, or the party person will do the development work only. But we need to find the better person among the bad people and encourage him to do well. Staying back at home, enjoying a day’s leave and later complaining against the system is a cowards’ practice. So it’s time to wake up. Let’s go out and vote. If at all we have missed this time, let’s pledge that next time we will go out, and encourage our friends and neighbors too, to select our own government.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Celebrating away from home
Hello guys. I am back again. One of my readers told me that if I continue writing like this, that too about girls, I am sure I am not gaining anything, but going to lose a lot. I will lose all my male readers it seems. A study tells that males are very jealous of other males’ success. That too importantly if it is in the field of having girls around them. So even if girls are ditching you, their proximity to you is killing them. So better now, stop the stories of girls in your life. And really I gave it a thought, and found that the responses have decreased like hell. Even when my editors confirm that the writing style and content has become so much polished now. So may be it’s time to listen to this well wisher, and stop my stories on girls. Neither that this is some publicity stunt, nor have the stories of girls dried up, but still I will just take a break from that. And this piece will be dedicated to all my male friends. J
First scene, it’s your birthday today. You are away from your home. Friends have lined up to wish you. They are all forcing you to give a big treat. You all together enjoy it. You have tremendous fun. Second scene, it’s your birthday today and you are at your home. From morning the affection and blessings showered on you by your family members are immeasurable. Mummy will be all set to prepare all those special dishes, which you like, even when dad has a bad tongue for them. Their eyes always pouring love on you, may not be as fun-filled as scene one, but surely lot more comfortable and satisfying to our heart. The protection and support which we get back at home will be always missing elsewhere. I am sure you guys know it; IPL is in South Africa this time, and not back home. L
This year I had made up my mind that however it is, I will go to watch at least three matches in stadium. Last year, we, a group of ten people had gone to see the match between Bangalore and Hyderabad. Those people had reached before us, and never kept seats for us. * Finally, we three were isolated in a place, but the fun was immense. Last over, and Kumble was bowling it. Hyderabad still needed twenty runs to win. Two huge sixes had turned the way the match was poised. Six needed of two balls. Another big hit and it would have been all over. I could hear the advices given by so many people around, in Kannada, English, and Hindi. Single off next ball, and Bangar was off strike. Kumble saved further blushes and we won finally by 3 runs. Even when we were not able to see the players so clearly, the environment there was so much electrifying. All of us had a feeling that it was because of our cheering up and encouragement that we won the match, and we should be given man of the match, instead of Praveen Kumar. I could feel those goose bumps when that situation has arrived. I was just thrilled. But this year, those all plans were washed into the gutter. Some political drama, and some hustle and bustle, and IPL moved to South Africa. I can not even dream of attending IPL2 now. Onsite opportunity can be the only way, but I am too distant from that also. They are not willing to send me to Nepal also; South Africa is a dream in the day.
Like all other big events, IPL2 also was full of different controversies. Shuffling and reshuffling of schedules didn’t help. Loss of Modi in RCA elections, and indifference between the BJP ruled and Congress ruled states made sure that the IPL2 and Lok sabha polls are not feasible together, due to security reasons, mind it. But there was no other better window available to hold this, so was shifted to South Africa. Next headlines were the old love story between Saurav Ganguly and Australian coaches. John Buchanan, Kolkata Knight Riders coach, came with a new idea of having multiple captains. This was just a stunt to remove Dada from the captaincy, and they couldn’t have done it at Eden Gardens. So it was a great opportunity from them, and they did it. Brendon McCullum is the new captain. Similar thing happened in Bangalore too, but Mallya was frank with Dravid, and that seemed to be genuine. Then king Khan, the owner attacked the criticism of Sunil Gavaskar, the legend, and even advised him to own a franchise, and give his inputs there. Clearly, money was speaking here, and he understood it very soon and apologized for the same.
A great dinner party on the eve of IPL kick-off, great carnival planned, and scantily dressed Mandira Bedi, who assured that she will get her woolen clothes from suitcase, because it was very cold there, marked the opening of IPL2. Two matches on the first day, followed by a formal opening ceremony were held. In first match, Sachin Tendulkar held up his nerves and guided his team Mumbai Indians to a win against last year runners up, Chennai. In second match under lights, there was a bigger upset, when Royal Bangalore thrashed champions Rajasthan Royals in a royal encounter. Bangalore started on a sad note, and somehow posted a respectful total thanks to Dravid alone. As if he was playing to prove a point. And after he got to his half century, the way he rejoiced, and his gesture was enough to tell that he was pointing his bat to no other than Vijay Mallya. Later in bowling department, also we were looking charged up. Kumble who has best bowling figures for India in test (against Pakistan) and ODI’s ( 6-12 against WI) continued the trend, and achieved the hat trick of best figure in all three formats. He took 5/5 and the lower order perished under him. Even when Jesse could not do much with his bat, chances are bright after having an all rounder like him in ranks. So, the Rajasthan was down on the mats and we won by whopping seventy-five runs. Hurray. Great chances to book a top four birth this time. J
There is always a big discussion that if T20 is good in the interest of game or not. Test matches can never lose its class. But life has become so fast, and competitive that it’s tough for people to catch it on all five days. Still there is a craze, for ashes tour, or down under tour, or even all other tours where Indians go overseas. ODI’s also never lost its stature. What they are losing is just fan following, that too from stadium. But T20 is like a boon in disguise in current day scenario. Just around four hours, and you can get every worth of your penny. Entertainment factor is also taken care of. Great music between the over’s, and hot cheerleaders jumping in almost nothing, makes this a fun event. There are a few people who discuss about these cheerleaders more, next day on breakfast table, than the game. Hmmm. He is reading it. He he he.
But it’s really bad when we are doing the prostitution of this fun-filled game too. They have introduced a 7-1/2 min break after every ten over’s of match, calling it as strategy break. In fact this break is used to have a bigger business, by attracting the multimedia people and offering those time slots, so that they can air the project. They told that a part of this amount will be given under charity, that was also a different business altogether. That break can change the tempo of team as well as the spectators. We have already seen this in the match of Punjab and Delhi. The moods of teams were different after the break. I am not sure if it’s good for game, but I think it’s ruining the fun.
Teams are looking good this IPL, with new faces in. Australia seems to play like a nanny’s role. They have advised most of the players to avoid IPL, named others in their squad, even when they are injured, and people like Shaun Tait, have been told to move out in last minute. Maybe they want to save their exposure before T20 World Cup. Good strategy, all the best. Top four teams should be Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Chennai. Korbo, lorbo, haarbo re should come at last. Deccan at fifth position, Mohall at sixth and Rajasthan at seventh, is my prediction. One good thing that these organizers have done is to retain the telecast timings of the matches. We can still come out of office and watch the fun, on TV (L) at least. The oldies like Sachin, Dravid and Kumble doing well has given a hint that this IPL, experience will matter. Pitches are going to help bowlers too, not like previous IPL where bowlers were treated like Slum dog Millionaires (Slum dog because of their treatment on field, and millionaires because what they had earned).J
The only other difference I can see from IPL version 1.0 is, that this time, they are forced to attract spectator and lure them to see the match. In India, they never had to do that at least. People were themselves so much crazy about this. They were requesting for more tickets in fact. This is a country where cricket is a religion, and Sachin is god (national) and Dada is god (local) too. Here you don’t have to remind people about cricket, yeah you may have to stop them from doing so. Hope IPL3 is back to India, and I can fulfill my dreams of 3 matches in stadium.
By the time I finished this blog, Delhi beat Punjab in rain-affected match, and Hyderabad whitewashed Kolkata. Bangalore waiting for return leg with Chennai like last year. J And yeah, MAN U lost in FA cup semifinal. Their dreams of quintuple gone, but never mind it. Even when Chelsea fans can be happy for a moment, let me tell you, there were 8 non regular players in the team. J. And still they dragged it till penalty shoot out. And because of two regular players, they eventually lost it. Huh. Non regulars were better for FA platform. Sir Alex, better luck next time. This time, lets be happy with quadruple. J
*The story’s different and exaggerated version by one who was among those seven who never kept a seat for us:
"Last year, we, a group of ten people had gone to see the match between Bangalore and Hyderabad. Three of them reached 2 hours prior to the game and tried to hold some seats for rest all. But after seeing a group of local guys almost tearing into 2 other guys for trying to hold one seat, they came to a conclusion that this wasn't a great idea. They had to hold seats for 7 of the remaining guys!! And cramping a single girl in between that space with those local guys around didn't sound cool either. The other 4 reached a good half hour before the match and got hold of some remaining good seats. And then the 3 of them (including me). Yap. As usual they came Royally late. Just in time for the match. And expected others to have kept some good seats for them! But luckily they got some because of one big hearted guy (what a joke), who at least held off a few people to get them 3 seats. Finally, we three were isolated in a place. The other 4 in a better place. And the remaining 3 in the best place possible. Right above the cheerleaders!! Can you believe that! And yap. The fun was immense. For us too. :( "
First scene, it’s your birthday today. You are away from your home. Friends have lined up to wish you. They are all forcing you to give a big treat. You all together enjoy it. You have tremendous fun. Second scene, it’s your birthday today and you are at your home. From morning the affection and blessings showered on you by your family members are immeasurable. Mummy will be all set to prepare all those special dishes, which you like, even when dad has a bad tongue for them. Their eyes always pouring love on you, may not be as fun-filled as scene one, but surely lot more comfortable and satisfying to our heart. The protection and support which we get back at home will be always missing elsewhere. I am sure you guys know it; IPL is in South Africa this time, and not back home. L
This year I had made up my mind that however it is, I will go to watch at least three matches in stadium. Last year, we, a group of ten people had gone to see the match between Bangalore and Hyderabad. Those people had reached before us, and never kept seats for us. * Finally, we three were isolated in a place, but the fun was immense. Last over, and Kumble was bowling it. Hyderabad still needed twenty runs to win. Two huge sixes had turned the way the match was poised. Six needed of two balls. Another big hit and it would have been all over. I could hear the advices given by so many people around, in Kannada, English, and Hindi. Single off next ball, and Bangar was off strike. Kumble saved further blushes and we won finally by 3 runs. Even when we were not able to see the players so clearly, the environment there was so much electrifying. All of us had a feeling that it was because of our cheering up and encouragement that we won the match, and we should be given man of the match, instead of Praveen Kumar. I could feel those goose bumps when that situation has arrived. I was just thrilled. But this year, those all plans were washed into the gutter. Some political drama, and some hustle and bustle, and IPL moved to South Africa. I can not even dream of attending IPL2 now. Onsite opportunity can be the only way, but I am too distant from that also. They are not willing to send me to Nepal also; South Africa is a dream in the day.
Like all other big events, IPL2 also was full of different controversies. Shuffling and reshuffling of schedules didn’t help. Loss of Modi in RCA elections, and indifference between the BJP ruled and Congress ruled states made sure that the IPL2 and Lok sabha polls are not feasible together, due to security reasons, mind it. But there was no other better window available to hold this, so was shifted to South Africa. Next headlines were the old love story between Saurav Ganguly and Australian coaches. John Buchanan, Kolkata Knight Riders coach, came with a new idea of having multiple captains. This was just a stunt to remove Dada from the captaincy, and they couldn’t have done it at Eden Gardens. So it was a great opportunity from them, and they did it. Brendon McCullum is the new captain. Similar thing happened in Bangalore too, but Mallya was frank with Dravid, and that seemed to be genuine. Then king Khan, the owner attacked the criticism of Sunil Gavaskar, the legend, and even advised him to own a franchise, and give his inputs there. Clearly, money was speaking here, and he understood it very soon and apologized for the same.
A great dinner party on the eve of IPL kick-off, great carnival planned, and scantily dressed Mandira Bedi, who assured that she will get her woolen clothes from suitcase, because it was very cold there, marked the opening of IPL2. Two matches on the first day, followed by a formal opening ceremony were held. In first match, Sachin Tendulkar held up his nerves and guided his team Mumbai Indians to a win against last year runners up, Chennai. In second match under lights, there was a bigger upset, when Royal Bangalore thrashed champions Rajasthan Royals in a royal encounter. Bangalore started on a sad note, and somehow posted a respectful total thanks to Dravid alone. As if he was playing to prove a point. And after he got to his half century, the way he rejoiced, and his gesture was enough to tell that he was pointing his bat to no other than Vijay Mallya. Later in bowling department, also we were looking charged up. Kumble who has best bowling figures for India in test (against Pakistan) and ODI’s ( 6-12 against WI) continued the trend, and achieved the hat trick of best figure in all three formats. He took 5/5 and the lower order perished under him. Even when Jesse could not do much with his bat, chances are bright after having an all rounder like him in ranks. So, the Rajasthan was down on the mats and we won by whopping seventy-five runs. Hurray. Great chances to book a top four birth this time. J
There is always a big discussion that if T20 is good in the interest of game or not. Test matches can never lose its class. But life has become so fast, and competitive that it’s tough for people to catch it on all five days. Still there is a craze, for ashes tour, or down under tour, or even all other tours where Indians go overseas. ODI’s also never lost its stature. What they are losing is just fan following, that too from stadium. But T20 is like a boon in disguise in current day scenario. Just around four hours, and you can get every worth of your penny. Entertainment factor is also taken care of. Great music between the over’s, and hot cheerleaders jumping in almost nothing, makes this a fun event. There are a few people who discuss about these cheerleaders more, next day on breakfast table, than the game. Hmmm. He is reading it. He he he.
But it’s really bad when we are doing the prostitution of this fun-filled game too. They have introduced a 7-1/2 min break after every ten over’s of match, calling it as strategy break. In fact this break is used to have a bigger business, by attracting the multimedia people and offering those time slots, so that they can air the project. They told that a part of this amount will be given under charity, that was also a different business altogether. That break can change the tempo of team as well as the spectators. We have already seen this in the match of Punjab and Delhi. The moods of teams were different after the break. I am not sure if it’s good for game, but I think it’s ruining the fun.
Teams are looking good this IPL, with new faces in. Australia seems to play like a nanny’s role. They have advised most of the players to avoid IPL, named others in their squad, even when they are injured, and people like Shaun Tait, have been told to move out in last minute. Maybe they want to save their exposure before T20 World Cup. Good strategy, all the best. Top four teams should be Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Chennai. Korbo, lorbo, haarbo re should come at last. Deccan at fifth position, Mohall at sixth and Rajasthan at seventh, is my prediction. One good thing that these organizers have done is to retain the telecast timings of the matches. We can still come out of office and watch the fun, on TV (L) at least. The oldies like Sachin, Dravid and Kumble doing well has given a hint that this IPL, experience will matter. Pitches are going to help bowlers too, not like previous IPL where bowlers were treated like Slum dog Millionaires (Slum dog because of their treatment on field, and millionaires because what they had earned).J
The only other difference I can see from IPL version 1.0 is, that this time, they are forced to attract spectator and lure them to see the match. In India, they never had to do that at least. People were themselves so much crazy about this. They were requesting for more tickets in fact. This is a country where cricket is a religion, and Sachin is god (national) and Dada is god (local) too. Here you don’t have to remind people about cricket, yeah you may have to stop them from doing so. Hope IPL3 is back to India, and I can fulfill my dreams of 3 matches in stadium.
By the time I finished this blog, Delhi beat Punjab in rain-affected match, and Hyderabad whitewashed Kolkata. Bangalore waiting for return leg with Chennai like last year. J And yeah, MAN U lost in FA cup semifinal. Their dreams of quintuple gone, but never mind it. Even when Chelsea fans can be happy for a moment, let me tell you, there were 8 non regular players in the team. J. And still they dragged it till penalty shoot out. And because of two regular players, they eventually lost it. Huh. Non regulars were better for FA platform. Sir Alex, better luck next time. This time, lets be happy with quadruple. J
*The story’s different and exaggerated version by one who was among those seven who never kept a seat for us:
"Last year, we, a group of ten people had gone to see the match between Bangalore and Hyderabad. Three of them reached 2 hours prior to the game and tried to hold some seats for rest all. But after seeing a group of local guys almost tearing into 2 other guys for trying to hold one seat, they came to a conclusion that this wasn't a great idea. They had to hold seats for 7 of the remaining guys!! And cramping a single girl in between that space with those local guys around didn't sound cool either. The other 4 reached a good half hour before the match and got hold of some remaining good seats. And then the 3 of them (including me). Yap. As usual they came Royally late. Just in time for the match. And expected others to have kept some good seats for them! But luckily they got some because of one big hearted guy (what a joke), who at least held off a few people to get them 3 seats. Finally, we three were isolated in a place. The other 4 in a better place. And the remaining 3 in the best place possible. Right above the cheerleaders!! Can you believe that! And yap. The fun was immense. For us too. :( "
Pillars of Success/Failure
Hi guys!!! I am back. First, I am sorry for breaking the sequence. It was a pre-decided space for some other topic. But last weekend forced a thought in my so called brain, and I am bound to write on this. Let me introduce you to this mostly criticized community, who are applauded for every success we gain, and also are held responsible for our dire straits. This community is friends. FRI-end provides us with Fun, Respect and Integrity, and without them it’s just the end. The pain is understood by only those who are alone. Am I a loner? No ways…give me a break. I have a handful of friends, and few showcase pieces among them.
Back to main theme. I thought of writing this blog as a tribute to my guru of blog writing, Mr. Chetan Bhagat. I was impressed with his piece “Five point someone” so much that I can’t express. In this weekend I read “One night @ call center”. Most of my friends who have read this, including Miss X had told that this book is not so interesting. That had only kept me away from reading this. Also I was not getting the proper copy of the book, which I got this weekend (Thanks AV). I felt that this book also had a nice flow and it was interesting too. I think everyone was comparing this with his previous piece, which was a masterpiece, so negative comments. About that guru thing, I was not very well versed with this foreign language before and was just able to communicate somehow. Understanding was never a problem; just that communication was little low. My few friends used to laugh at me, telling me Hindi medium and all (they still tease meL), but I never lost hope and kept learning. The day I read this guy’s book, I was shocked. It was nowhere filled with jargons and all. It was so simple from head to toe, still so interesting. I got courage and my heart back, and after few initiatives, this blogger was born. Let us talk about the “One night @ call center”. I will try my best not to make it a spoiler. Analyzing a book with your own life is a great feeling as well as a tight slap. Let us find how it turns out for us.
Artiste:
Shyam () – hero of the book
Esha – aspiring to be a model
Priyanka - Ex girlfriend of Shyam
Radhika – married girl
Vroom – youngest member of group
Bakshi – the boss of all 5 above
Introduction:
The story revolves mainly around these six people. Shyam is the hard working guy. Aspiring guy he is, waiting for his promotion, to be promoted to a Lead’s job. But he is badly manipulated by his boss, Mr. Bakshi. He makes him do all his work, maybe important and unimportant, and takes the credit himself. But Shyam is very tolerant, not like Vroom, who cannot stand such attitude from his boss. Esha is a modern girl, who is aspiring to head into fashion world. For that she goes to the extreme of losing her morality also, but later she gets hurt a lot. Vroom is interested in her, but she gives preference to her career first. Next in list is Radhika, who is married in a conservative family. In spite of her all ambitions, forgotten one, she is trying to settle in that family where her mother-in-law always sulks and complains to her husband, and even the guy has blind faith towards his mom. Further she comes to know that the guy is having an affair outside his marriage, and it breaks her. Then comes Priyanka; she likes Shyam, but her mom is willing that she should be with someone well settled and not with a mediocre call center guy which she understands well. Finally comes, the boss who is a real boss (like fattu and Steve Jobs). I gave you details about him above only.
Plot:
The story goes like this, all five of them have some problems of their own, and they look little dejected in life. They all go out to hang out, and while coming back; they meet with some kind of accident where there is a very faint chance of survival. Suddenly they receive a call from God who says that He can save them from this situation, if only they promise that they will help themselves to come out of this dejected situation. God will also tell Shyam that the root cause of his deterioration is lack of his own self-confidence. And then advised him to do what is best. Similarly he discussed about everyone else. They all agree, and God saved them. Finally they come back and re-decided their lives, and do according to that. They all together give a good lesson to Mr. Bakshi that he will remember throughout his life. Priyanka falls for Shyam again and she tells that it is important for her to take the biggest decision in her life, taking in mind what is the best for her. By that time our hero had gained his self confidence and self respect. He declines and goes off. And later he realizes his mistake, runs behind Priyanka and begs her to forgive him for showing the attitude and they are happy together.
I don’t know all good books and bad movies (especially bollywood movies) have a happy ending. But again this gives a positive thought that if it’s still not happening well with us then, ‘picture abhi banki hai mere dost’. Anyways, throughout this book, the most interesting thing which I found was the friendship and bond amongst people. Even when they may not like each other a lot, they were never reluctant to help each other. I am sure, each one of us will when read it, can visualize at least a person in our own life. And that gives a real kick to read it in a stretch and non-stop.
I found a few characters in my life too. Listen guys, I am the blogger here, so it has to be my story. So the main character Shyam was overlapping in my real life so many times. So was Mr. Bakshi. Those who know me in office might know about Mr. Fattu aka Steve Jobs. I have lost counts, how many times he has used me and shamelessly told in front of me also that it was his idea, or he guided me to do so, when I had put my heart out. So like Shyam, I am also in the same place where I was almost 3 years back. And this recession period confirms that I have to stay for little more time. Then there is Priyanka too. She cited her own choices and reasons to part off with me. I was not as lucky as Shyam in this case to get her back. But I did get a moral boost to my so called self-samman and aatm-respect. I just have that feeling that I was never a loser; yeah she might have lost someone precious in her life. And yes, I am not so desperate like Shyam too. Even if she comes back, my answer will be a no only; attitude, as if she is gonna come back in your life. I know she will not come back, just giving strength to myself to make myself fit to recruit someone for post vacated by Priyanka.
Many years back, it was a cold Saturday afternoon when I was discussing with my friend about the empty periods which we were going to have next week. This dashing girl, my Priyanka, came and asked something about the same to my friend and not me, and it was me who jumped and answered. She gave a sweet smile, and went, and left me half-dead. Later my friend did kick me that why I jumped and answered, when she had asked him. If he would have answered, she would have been his girl. So I was a traitor in initial phase of our friendship only it seems. That was the first time I had spoken to her, even when she never spoke to me. ;-)
Slowly we started to come close to each other, and it was a hot topic to discuss everywhere. Guy like me got a girlfriend, was a big headache for my friends and roomies as they were much more experienced in this field, and had tried their luck minimum thousand times, but never succeeded. I was on so called cloud nine. Whenever I was in any kind of problem, I always used to find her besides me. And I was anyways always besides her, be it problem time or happy time. We just relished each other’s presence. I used to get a different kind of force in her presence. Be it in sports field, or studies, the urge to do better in front of her made me get success, and within a few days, from a normal and quiet person, I was a star. We never crossed any limits and standards set by the society. In fact we were never bothered about that. It was sufficient for us, if we were able to see each other daily. I had wished to spend my whole life with her, and had vomited this idea to few closest friends of mine. Thank god, they didn’t vomit elsewhere. I never proposed her, but her eyes used to tell me everything. I had read somewhere, eyes don’t lie. But yes, they do create illusions.
I never understood what happened and why happened, but it did happen one day, when we came out together again. Not for any fun this time, but to part off. This was one of the toughest days of my life. But I never knew that upcoming days will be tougher, when I have to see her, still have no such feelings. I really don’t understand how girls are so strong in such things. Otherwise for small things also, tears used to roll out. But she was a completely changed person after that day. As if never anything had happened. I feel these girls are more determined to do something. If any girl asks me what is the shortest way to a man’s heart? I will tell, take a knife, open up his chest and reach till heart. I was feeling the same way, as if I was opened up on an operation theatre and I could feel the pain. Thanks to my roomies, and Devdas movie, I thought of giving a try to that also. ‘Kaun kambakht bardashtkarne ke liye peeta hai, hum to peete hain ke Paro err… Priyanka ko bhula saken’. But I will be always thankful to God. He gave me a taste bud which never liked beer, and I couldn’t accomplish the role of Devdas. My other friends (not roomies) also helped me to come out of this. J
That time I did kick myself that why I had to jump and answer to her that day. But that was in the destiny. If not that day, some other day, some other time, some other topic, but the same smile would have left me half-dead. So I never had a choice. Once bitten, always shy. First time heart attack, a person can survive; but second time it can be fatal and lethal. That’s why I am roaming with guys these days, and not because I am a gay or I don’t like to flirt, ok. But as Priyanka Gandhi said, ‘never say never’ and ‘never it’s late’. I am back in the field with new enthuisiasm. He he he. :D
We will come back to this book now. In few places the representation of friendship is so clear to me that I feel myself to be standing in that place. One of the best lines which I found here – ‘Few people get to hit their boss, but those who do it will tell that it’s better than s**’. Frankly till now I am ignorant about the both phenomenon, but I can bet that after seeing Mr. Fattu, the definition of pleasure is underlined on giving a big thrash to him, and all of them who worked under him will agree with me on that.
In short, I was very happy with this book also. The way he had done research about the minute things also, and the simple way in which he has presented it. The entire thing seems to be like a movie in front of your eyes. By movie I remembered, I have to go and watch Hello now and check out how good they have done, or they have completely spoiled it. So the book review ends here, and with aashirwaad of my guru, my blogs will keep on rolling, if u guys keep providing me topics of course.
Back to main theme. I thought of writing this blog as a tribute to my guru of blog writing, Mr. Chetan Bhagat. I was impressed with his piece “Five point someone” so much that I can’t express. In this weekend I read “One night @ call center”. Most of my friends who have read this, including Miss X had told that this book is not so interesting. That had only kept me away from reading this. Also I was not getting the proper copy of the book, which I got this weekend (Thanks AV). I felt that this book also had a nice flow and it was interesting too. I think everyone was comparing this with his previous piece, which was a masterpiece, so negative comments. About that guru thing, I was not very well versed with this foreign language before and was just able to communicate somehow. Understanding was never a problem; just that communication was little low. My few friends used to laugh at me, telling me Hindi medium and all (they still tease meL), but I never lost hope and kept learning. The day I read this guy’s book, I was shocked. It was nowhere filled with jargons and all. It was so simple from head to toe, still so interesting. I got courage and my heart back, and after few initiatives, this blogger was born. Let us talk about the “One night @ call center”. I will try my best not to make it a spoiler. Analyzing a book with your own life is a great feeling as well as a tight slap. Let us find how it turns out for us.
Artiste:
Shyam () – hero of the book
Esha – aspiring to be a model
Priyanka - Ex girlfriend of Shyam
Radhika – married girl
Vroom – youngest member of group
Bakshi – the boss of all 5 above
Introduction:
The story revolves mainly around these six people. Shyam is the hard working guy. Aspiring guy he is, waiting for his promotion, to be promoted to a Lead’s job. But he is badly manipulated by his boss, Mr. Bakshi. He makes him do all his work, maybe important and unimportant, and takes the credit himself. But Shyam is very tolerant, not like Vroom, who cannot stand such attitude from his boss. Esha is a modern girl, who is aspiring to head into fashion world. For that she goes to the extreme of losing her morality also, but later she gets hurt a lot. Vroom is interested in her, but she gives preference to her career first. Next in list is Radhika, who is married in a conservative family. In spite of her all ambitions, forgotten one, she is trying to settle in that family where her mother-in-law always sulks and complains to her husband, and even the guy has blind faith towards his mom. Further she comes to know that the guy is having an affair outside his marriage, and it breaks her. Then comes Priyanka; she likes Shyam, but her mom is willing that she should be with someone well settled and not with a mediocre call center guy which she understands well. Finally comes, the boss who is a real boss (like fattu and Steve Jobs). I gave you details about him above only.
Plot:
The story goes like this, all five of them have some problems of their own, and they look little dejected in life. They all go out to hang out, and while coming back; they meet with some kind of accident where there is a very faint chance of survival. Suddenly they receive a call from God who says that He can save them from this situation, if only they promise that they will help themselves to come out of this dejected situation. God will also tell Shyam that the root cause of his deterioration is lack of his own self-confidence. And then advised him to do what is best. Similarly he discussed about everyone else. They all agree, and God saved them. Finally they come back and re-decided their lives, and do according to that. They all together give a good lesson to Mr. Bakshi that he will remember throughout his life. Priyanka falls for Shyam again and she tells that it is important for her to take the biggest decision in her life, taking in mind what is the best for her. By that time our hero had gained his self confidence and self respect. He declines and goes off. And later he realizes his mistake, runs behind Priyanka and begs her to forgive him for showing the attitude and they are happy together.
I don’t know all good books and bad movies (especially bollywood movies) have a happy ending. But again this gives a positive thought that if it’s still not happening well with us then, ‘picture abhi banki hai mere dost’. Anyways, throughout this book, the most interesting thing which I found was the friendship and bond amongst people. Even when they may not like each other a lot, they were never reluctant to help each other. I am sure, each one of us will when read it, can visualize at least a person in our own life. And that gives a real kick to read it in a stretch and non-stop.
I found a few characters in my life too. Listen guys, I am the blogger here, so it has to be my story. So the main character Shyam was overlapping in my real life so many times. So was Mr. Bakshi. Those who know me in office might know about Mr. Fattu aka Steve Jobs. I have lost counts, how many times he has used me and shamelessly told in front of me also that it was his idea, or he guided me to do so, when I had put my heart out. So like Shyam, I am also in the same place where I was almost 3 years back. And this recession period confirms that I have to stay for little more time. Then there is Priyanka too. She cited her own choices and reasons to part off with me. I was not as lucky as Shyam in this case to get her back. But I did get a moral boost to my so called self-samman and aatm-respect. I just have that feeling that I was never a loser; yeah she might have lost someone precious in her life. And yes, I am not so desperate like Shyam too. Even if she comes back, my answer will be a no only; attitude, as if she is gonna come back in your life. I know she will not come back, just giving strength to myself to make myself fit to recruit someone for post vacated by Priyanka.
Many years back, it was a cold Saturday afternoon when I was discussing with my friend about the empty periods which we were going to have next week. This dashing girl, my Priyanka, came and asked something about the same to my friend and not me, and it was me who jumped and answered. She gave a sweet smile, and went, and left me half-dead. Later my friend did kick me that why I jumped and answered, when she had asked him. If he would have answered, she would have been his girl. So I was a traitor in initial phase of our friendship only it seems. That was the first time I had spoken to her, even when she never spoke to me. ;-)
Slowly we started to come close to each other, and it was a hot topic to discuss everywhere. Guy like me got a girlfriend, was a big headache for my friends and roomies as they were much more experienced in this field, and had tried their luck minimum thousand times, but never succeeded. I was on so called cloud nine. Whenever I was in any kind of problem, I always used to find her besides me. And I was anyways always besides her, be it problem time or happy time. We just relished each other’s presence. I used to get a different kind of force in her presence. Be it in sports field, or studies, the urge to do better in front of her made me get success, and within a few days, from a normal and quiet person, I was a star. We never crossed any limits and standards set by the society. In fact we were never bothered about that. It was sufficient for us, if we were able to see each other daily. I had wished to spend my whole life with her, and had vomited this idea to few closest friends of mine. Thank god, they didn’t vomit elsewhere. I never proposed her, but her eyes used to tell me everything. I had read somewhere, eyes don’t lie. But yes, they do create illusions.
I never understood what happened and why happened, but it did happen one day, when we came out together again. Not for any fun this time, but to part off. This was one of the toughest days of my life. But I never knew that upcoming days will be tougher, when I have to see her, still have no such feelings. I really don’t understand how girls are so strong in such things. Otherwise for small things also, tears used to roll out. But she was a completely changed person after that day. As if never anything had happened. I feel these girls are more determined to do something. If any girl asks me what is the shortest way to a man’s heart? I will tell, take a knife, open up his chest and reach till heart. I was feeling the same way, as if I was opened up on an operation theatre and I could feel the pain. Thanks to my roomies, and Devdas movie, I thought of giving a try to that also. ‘Kaun kambakht bardashtkarne ke liye peeta hai, hum to peete hain ke Paro err… Priyanka ko bhula saken’. But I will be always thankful to God. He gave me a taste bud which never liked beer, and I couldn’t accomplish the role of Devdas. My other friends (not roomies) also helped me to come out of this. J
That time I did kick myself that why I had to jump and answer to her that day. But that was in the destiny. If not that day, some other day, some other time, some other topic, but the same smile would have left me half-dead. So I never had a choice. Once bitten, always shy. First time heart attack, a person can survive; but second time it can be fatal and lethal. That’s why I am roaming with guys these days, and not because I am a gay or I don’t like to flirt, ok. But as Priyanka Gandhi said, ‘never say never’ and ‘never it’s late’. I am back in the field with new enthuisiasm. He he he. :D
We will come back to this book now. In few places the representation of friendship is so clear to me that I feel myself to be standing in that place. One of the best lines which I found here – ‘Few people get to hit their boss, but those who do it will tell that it’s better than s**’. Frankly till now I am ignorant about the both phenomenon, but I can bet that after seeing Mr. Fattu, the definition of pleasure is underlined on giving a big thrash to him, and all of them who worked under him will agree with me on that.
In short, I was very happy with this book also. The way he had done research about the minute things also, and the simple way in which he has presented it. The entire thing seems to be like a movie in front of your eyes. By movie I remembered, I have to go and watch Hello now and check out how good they have done, or they have completely spoiled it. So the book review ends here, and with aashirwaad of my guru, my blogs will keep on rolling, if u guys keep providing me topics of course.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
The Final Encounter Returns(Rise of my emotions)
Hi friends. So finally I landed in my native town. The very next day was cousin bro’s marriage. I was too much tired from last two journeys. So as soon as I reached my uncle’s house, I slept off for almost 6-8 hours.
To continue with my story, at this stage I had got my sixth sense telling me that listen dude, it’s not all over yet; there is something more to come. I thought about my experiences with X and Y. I was thinking that those two were so different in nature. I just asked myself, if I am going to witness something interesting and something fresh again. I had no answer at that moment, but I knew that coming time will tell everything. I was eagerly waiting for this new dimension, our Z axis. I don’t have much to tell about her. Anyways in mathematical figure also Z axis is represented by broken line (in dots).
A guy’s life is indeed full of struggle. First of all, he struggles to find a girlfriend for himself. He spends his time, money, efforts, respect and many other things for this mission. Everything cumulative is more than enough even for climbing Mount Everest. Few of them achieve the feminine ending. Few those who are still thirsty start afresh from day zero with a new test case. For them struggle continues, but that doesn’t mean that the misery ends for the former who achieved success. After little time, you will find the same lucky person, struggling to get rid of his old girlfriend. So our struggle has no boundaries. From searching a girlfriend, till searching a new girlfriend, and searching more, until get married, is the life time of this struggle. Anyway, after marriage you get used to it, and accept that struggle and your wife both. (Inputs from my few just married friends).
My case was little different but. Yes, I tried my best to search a girlfriend for myself, but I was never able to come out of that first level and taste the success. Over and over again, I went to the well, but every time came back thirsty. (Now I’m waiting for some well to come to me ;-)). But still I was able to get the environment of second level. I still confirm that I don’t have any girlfriend. But don’t know if my good luck, or bad luck; there is a girl in my native place, who boasts that I am her boyfriend. I will not take her name here, or else if she reads, she will call me again and scold me. Save me guys!!! Anyway, whenever I go to native place, I go with two aims; to meet almost all of my relatives, and to save myself from her beautiful eyes. It’s very tough as I am her next door neighbor. This time I reached my place early in the morning, so she never noticed and I kept my first aim aside, and thought to concentrate on the latter only. I had to spend 3 days there. Out of that day2 was marriage day, and day3 afternoon I had to come back. So it was only day1 which was the genuine problem.
Phew, this took me entire three paragraphs to tell you guys that why I slept for 6-8 hours, after I reached my place. Anyways, I was saved. Next day, one of my other cousin brothers came to accompany me for the marriage function. We reached the cousin bro’s village at around 11am. Here one more surprise was awaiting me. My bro’s marriage was fixed in my own native village. I had mixed emotions. Happy because, even in this short time frame I will be able to pay a visit to my native village; sad because, I will not be able to have much fun there, as everyone knows me there, and any fun which can cross the limit will be nicely reported to my family in Aaj Tak style (with spice and curry). Anyways, there are several rituals, to be followed. Finally, at around 8 pm in night, we headed for our native village, where marriage function was planned, and then to come back with Bhabhi from there. It was around 9.30pm when we reached there. We received a warm welcome, accompanied with great snacks. Everyone there did comment on me, that since I am from this place only, so I should be taking part on the behalf of both the parties. So in case there is any work, I should not hesitate to get up for that. I cursed myself and my bro, that why he couldn’t find any other place to marry. I was told to go and attend near the marriage place and help people if anything needed. Only family members and known people are allowed there near marriage place. I was the privileged person. I reached there and started to witness, how a helpless goat (my bro) is tied to the same rope which ties a lioness (my Bhabhi) on other end. We have a ritual where groom’s shoes will be stolen by his sisters-in-law, and he will have to empty his pockets to get them back. So I had been told to take care of bro’s sandals and in case they try to steal, let them to, but to locate the hiding place to retrieve it later. It was after ages that I was attending a marriage ceremony. I was very happy to understand the job, and was ready for that. I was chosen for that as it was my village, and I was known to people and places.
Anyway, as rituals went by, so did my guarding. Suddenly I saw 3 girls coming. Out of them one, who was fully clad in red, our own Miss Z, picked up his sandals and went off. I slowly followed her. Darkness helped me a lot in doing that. And I was feeling myself like some great detective aka Sherlock Holmes. I felt that reading all those books of Sherlock Holmes, Agatha Christie, Byomkesh, and Feluda during office hours became fruitful today. Finally we reached the destination, they kept the sandals. Then they turned back, and then I saw that girl in red for the first time.
“Dekhi Lakh Lakh Pardesi Gal, Nobody just like my Desi gal”. “Who is the hottest gal in the world?”, “Oye Desi Gal”.
I did one silent hat off to Karan Johar for putting such appropriate song in his movie. She was not the most beautiful girl in the world. But somehow her one view was enough to catch your eyes, and make it tough for your eyes to look elsewhere. I followed her back to the marriage hall. She went inside, and I was dying to have a glimpse of her. I used up all my tricks, but somehow failed, as she had entered the restricted zone, which was meant for ladies only. In between she came out once, and then I cannot but smile on my good luck. Just in time, one old person was introducing me to others, telling about my father’s naughtiness in childhood, and that I was equally famous then, and that I’m the cousin bro of the groom which she overheard.
Grapes are not always sour. After some time I was called inside. Some 5-6 girls were there. I knew 2-3 of them. I used to play with them in my childhood. They all started to interview me. I was not so tensed, while doing my IIM interview also. I was feeling as if one wrong answer can ruin my life. Anyways, from interview they came down on to teasing me and pulling my leg. They were all shocked to know that I don’t have a girl friend. Then Z introduced herself to me. She was the younger sister of Bhabhi. While telling that she was feeling shy so much as if she was speaking to a guy for the first time. But anyway, she was so simple, and her attitude and her sweetness had impressed me to the core. From that time, she never left me alone, and was always with me, explaining all the rituals in between, which I was unable to understand. She always stuck to me as if she was my shadow. So much that even Bhabhi saw that and called her and they did some whispering in each other’s ears, and shared a big laugh. I could guess what they could have discussed, and I enjoyed it more (Blush). Then we both went and had dinner together. In fact she was serving for me, and then I told her also to sit and have with me (Not in the same plate u dreamers).
Then we chatted about our lives for another one hour or so, while marriage was going on. We exchanged our phone numbers, and also promised each other that we will communicate once in a while. It was around 2.30 pm that marriage rituals got over. Finally bhaiya got up and came outside. He came out and searched for his sandals. He was then surrounded by all those 5-6 girls and they started demanding money in the exchange of return of his sandals. Bhaiya looked at me, and I happily announced that I know where the sandals are and will get them soon. I went, searched, and was shocked to see that sandals were missing from that place. After around 5 minutes I came back empty handed. Seeing me so, those 5-6 girls started laughing like some mad cows, and started congratulating each other. Suddenly as if the dark clouds were off, and I could understand everything. Everything what had happened, and what I had done was planned. I was not a detective, alas, I was a victim. Victim of a big conspiracy done by these girls. Miss Z had captivated me with her, and meantime they were able to change the location. Not that much only, they never left me alone, so that I can find this out till last moment. They were laughing their hearts out and I was searching for a place to hide my face. I understood what Z had discussed with Bhabhi was about this plan and not about something that I had to blush. The phone number which she had given me, that also was phony.
“Lut gayee, Lut gayee sari country. Ishq da gali wich NO ENTRY”.
Thank god, marriage was over and we didn’t have to stay for long. Bhaiya emptied his pocket for his sandals. We came and sat in our car. She was feeling little sad now, maybe thinking that she had hurt me. Maybe she wanted to talk to me, but I had to prove that I am the one who wears pant (cough cough). I never turned back and had a look. I was sad for all that happened to me, and that I could have been more cautious. But after all, this tour had lessons and one positive point for me. The number which I gave her, at least was not phony. Hurrrray. Waiting for her call now. J
That’s all guys. Now you guys tell me. Doesn’t it seem like as if those three girls are from three different planets? They had hardly anything common among their nature. That’s why I called them the 3D dimensions. J Do you guys agree with me?
To continue with my story, at this stage I had got my sixth sense telling me that listen dude, it’s not all over yet; there is something more to come. I thought about my experiences with X and Y. I was thinking that those two were so different in nature. I just asked myself, if I am going to witness something interesting and something fresh again. I had no answer at that moment, but I knew that coming time will tell everything. I was eagerly waiting for this new dimension, our Z axis. I don’t have much to tell about her. Anyways in mathematical figure also Z axis is represented by broken line (in dots).
A guy’s life is indeed full of struggle. First of all, he struggles to find a girlfriend for himself. He spends his time, money, efforts, respect and many other things for this mission. Everything cumulative is more than enough even for climbing Mount Everest. Few of them achieve the feminine ending. Few those who are still thirsty start afresh from day zero with a new test case. For them struggle continues, but that doesn’t mean that the misery ends for the former who achieved success. After little time, you will find the same lucky person, struggling to get rid of his old girlfriend. So our struggle has no boundaries. From searching a girlfriend, till searching a new girlfriend, and searching more, until get married, is the life time of this struggle. Anyway, after marriage you get used to it, and accept that struggle and your wife both. (Inputs from my few just married friends).
My case was little different but. Yes, I tried my best to search a girlfriend for myself, but I was never able to come out of that first level and taste the success. Over and over again, I went to the well, but every time came back thirsty. (Now I’m waiting for some well to come to me ;-)). But still I was able to get the environment of second level. I still confirm that I don’t have any girlfriend. But don’t know if my good luck, or bad luck; there is a girl in my native place, who boasts that I am her boyfriend. I will not take her name here, or else if she reads, she will call me again and scold me. Save me guys!!! Anyway, whenever I go to native place, I go with two aims; to meet almost all of my relatives, and to save myself from her beautiful eyes. It’s very tough as I am her next door neighbor. This time I reached my place early in the morning, so she never noticed and I kept my first aim aside, and thought to concentrate on the latter only. I had to spend 3 days there. Out of that day2 was marriage day, and day3 afternoon I had to come back. So it was only day1 which was the genuine problem.
Phew, this took me entire three paragraphs to tell you guys that why I slept for 6-8 hours, after I reached my place. Anyways, I was saved. Next day, one of my other cousin brothers came to accompany me for the marriage function. We reached the cousin bro’s village at around 11am. Here one more surprise was awaiting me. My bro’s marriage was fixed in my own native village. I had mixed emotions. Happy because, even in this short time frame I will be able to pay a visit to my native village; sad because, I will not be able to have much fun there, as everyone knows me there, and any fun which can cross the limit will be nicely reported to my family in Aaj Tak style (with spice and curry). Anyways, there are several rituals, to be followed. Finally, at around 8 pm in night, we headed for our native village, where marriage function was planned, and then to come back with Bhabhi from there. It was around 9.30pm when we reached there. We received a warm welcome, accompanied with great snacks. Everyone there did comment on me, that since I am from this place only, so I should be taking part on the behalf of both the parties. So in case there is any work, I should not hesitate to get up for that. I cursed myself and my bro, that why he couldn’t find any other place to marry. I was told to go and attend near the marriage place and help people if anything needed. Only family members and known people are allowed there near marriage place. I was the privileged person. I reached there and started to witness, how a helpless goat (my bro) is tied to the same rope which ties a lioness (my Bhabhi) on other end. We have a ritual where groom’s shoes will be stolen by his sisters-in-law, and he will have to empty his pockets to get them back. So I had been told to take care of bro’s sandals and in case they try to steal, let them to, but to locate the hiding place to retrieve it later. It was after ages that I was attending a marriage ceremony. I was very happy to understand the job, and was ready for that. I was chosen for that as it was my village, and I was known to people and places.
Anyway, as rituals went by, so did my guarding. Suddenly I saw 3 girls coming. Out of them one, who was fully clad in red, our own Miss Z, picked up his sandals and went off. I slowly followed her. Darkness helped me a lot in doing that. And I was feeling myself like some great detective aka Sherlock Holmes. I felt that reading all those books of Sherlock Holmes, Agatha Christie, Byomkesh, and Feluda during office hours became fruitful today. Finally we reached the destination, they kept the sandals. Then they turned back, and then I saw that girl in red for the first time.
“Dekhi Lakh Lakh Pardesi Gal, Nobody just like my Desi gal”. “Who is the hottest gal in the world?”, “Oye Desi Gal”.
I did one silent hat off to Karan Johar for putting such appropriate song in his movie. She was not the most beautiful girl in the world. But somehow her one view was enough to catch your eyes, and make it tough for your eyes to look elsewhere. I followed her back to the marriage hall. She went inside, and I was dying to have a glimpse of her. I used up all my tricks, but somehow failed, as she had entered the restricted zone, which was meant for ladies only. In between she came out once, and then I cannot but smile on my good luck. Just in time, one old person was introducing me to others, telling about my father’s naughtiness in childhood, and that I was equally famous then, and that I’m the cousin bro of the groom which she overheard.
Grapes are not always sour. After some time I was called inside. Some 5-6 girls were there. I knew 2-3 of them. I used to play with them in my childhood. They all started to interview me. I was not so tensed, while doing my IIM interview also. I was feeling as if one wrong answer can ruin my life. Anyways, from interview they came down on to teasing me and pulling my leg. They were all shocked to know that I don’t have a girl friend. Then Z introduced herself to me. She was the younger sister of Bhabhi. While telling that she was feeling shy so much as if she was speaking to a guy for the first time. But anyway, she was so simple, and her attitude and her sweetness had impressed me to the core. From that time, she never left me alone, and was always with me, explaining all the rituals in between, which I was unable to understand. She always stuck to me as if she was my shadow. So much that even Bhabhi saw that and called her and they did some whispering in each other’s ears, and shared a big laugh. I could guess what they could have discussed, and I enjoyed it more (Blush). Then we both went and had dinner together. In fact she was serving for me, and then I told her also to sit and have with me (Not in the same plate u dreamers).
Then we chatted about our lives for another one hour or so, while marriage was going on. We exchanged our phone numbers, and also promised each other that we will communicate once in a while. It was around 2.30 pm that marriage rituals got over. Finally bhaiya got up and came outside. He came out and searched for his sandals. He was then surrounded by all those 5-6 girls and they started demanding money in the exchange of return of his sandals. Bhaiya looked at me, and I happily announced that I know where the sandals are and will get them soon. I went, searched, and was shocked to see that sandals were missing from that place. After around 5 minutes I came back empty handed. Seeing me so, those 5-6 girls started laughing like some mad cows, and started congratulating each other. Suddenly as if the dark clouds were off, and I could understand everything. Everything what had happened, and what I had done was planned. I was not a detective, alas, I was a victim. Victim of a big conspiracy done by these girls. Miss Z had captivated me with her, and meantime they were able to change the location. Not that much only, they never left me alone, so that I can find this out till last moment. They were laughing their hearts out and I was searching for a place to hide my face. I understood what Z had discussed with Bhabhi was about this plan and not about something that I had to blush. The phone number which she had given me, that also was phony.
“Lut gayee, Lut gayee sari country. Ishq da gali wich NO ENTRY”.
Thank god, marriage was over and we didn’t have to stay for long. Bhaiya emptied his pocket for his sandals. We came and sat in our car. She was feeling little sad now, maybe thinking that she had hurt me. Maybe she wanted to talk to me, but I had to prove that I am the one who wears pant (cough cough). I never turned back and had a look. I was sad for all that happened to me, and that I could have been more cautious. But after all, this tour had lessons and one positive point for me. The number which I gave her, at least was not phony. Hurrrray. Waiting for her call now. J
That’s all guys. Now you guys tell me. Doesn’t it seem like as if those three girls are from three different planets? They had hardly anything common among their nature. That’s why I called them the 3D dimensions. J Do you guys agree with me?
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Return of the Encounters (The Judgment Day)
Contd…
Hi guys. I am back. Hope you people didn’t have to wait lots for the further encounters. I got few comments for my last blog that it was little too lengthy, and I should make it precise. This time I am sure this will be compact, as there is not much to be written. ;-). Let us directly move to next scene without wasting much time. :-)
In my last edition I had boarded the train for Calcutta. Here I am.
Scene 2:
Location: Calcutta
I reached Calcutta at 4 am in the morning. Here my college friend Arindam (ARD) was coming to pick me up. He had told that he will reach by around 6 am. So I had to spend 2 hours somewhere around. Calcutta is one of the busiest places I know in India. Even so early in the morning, so many people were out in the road, as if the city had never slept. And over that the city is very dirty, and traffic is just dangerous. Only experts can drive here. Its not only two, three and four wheelers you have to take care of. Suddenly from nowhere a tram( a road train famous in Calcutta, u can walk faster than these trams; mostly suitable for young couples, who have much time in hand, to put hand in hand, as told by ARD) can come and remind you of your worshipped god. (Oh my God!!! Arey Ram!!! Hey Bhagwan!!! Ayyo Murugan!!! Hey Waheguru!!! Ayyo Swami!!! Oh Jesus!!! Yaa Khuda!!!). I don’t know why Calcutta is called as ‘The City of Joy’, where at each step you check yourself if you are still in tact. Anyways, had never thought that city will give me the other dimension, for a very short period, but a new dimension.
Strolling under the famous Howrah Bridge over the Ganges shore I somehow managed to spend an hour or two, when I got a call from ARD that he is coming. In between I had messaged and informed him that I had reached. He came at around 6.30. My next train was at 4pm. We decided to spend the day in his house only instead of wandering outside. We boarded a government bus from the station terminus till his house in Beliaghata. It’s around 30mins journey. In the bus, the left side seats are meant for ladies and right side for gents. Anyways we had no hurry, so we waited for an empty bus to come, and then get into it. ARD took the window seat, and I sat sideways. Slowly the bus started to fill up. All seats were occupied. Here came up, Miss Y, our heroine for this scene, dressed up in attractive and appealing pink (purple, anyways color hardly matters). I just wished that if she could come near to my seat and stand. And I just hoped that ARD will have that much courtesy that he will leave his seat for the lady. I couldn’t leave because, I had to carry my bag, and moreover I was not sitting in the window seat. Generally girls like window seats na!!! ;-)
I don’t know how many times before I have made such wishes seeing attractive girls, but God always had deaf ears. But what had never happened before had to happen today. She ambled (walked leisurely as if on ramp) and came and stood in front of my seat. For a hold in the bus she grabbed the iron rod of the seat just in front of us. Even I had kept my hand there. Our hands were just far enough, maybe few centimeters. Seeing her, both of us raised our shoulders; both praising our own smartness, attraction and magic which pulled that girl near to us. ARD slowly whispered into my ears that this bus further goes to the software park of the city. Like Dhoom movie, even I had a slight glimpse of my small and happy family, a glimpse where I was standing with Y and two small kids (obviously ours) and I couldn’t stop my smile, when I saw Y standing just besides me. Bus was fully packed by now, and it started with a big jolt. Her hand touched mine. There was a shock flow throughout my body. Anyway guys, this is normal, so don’t worry as it happens with everyone. She was fast enough to remove her hand, with a simper (shower of smile, I wish I could understand the meaning of that smile then). She wanted to tell me something, but couldn’t. All because of those dirty and bloody guys who were hanging around her neck. People kept coming in that bus and no one was getting down. She started feeling the push from people standing behind her perhaps, because she was slowly moving towards us (me to be precise). With her each movement I was growing happier. And I could clearly see the jealousy in everyone’s eyes, including ARD. I felt around 20 pair of eyes, they were watching me continuously, and maybe were making their wishes, about replacing me, and putting themselves there.
Anyway, bus started to roll and so did we. She came close, closer and closest. There was a time when I was enjoying all this, and ARD was watching it with a red face (with anger and frustration). Now this proximity of Miss Y had forced me to become red. I had started to blush (fair guy :-)). This being a family blog, I cannot give u further details in detail*. But next 20 minutes were like a fun-filled horrible ride for me. At the end I was just wishing that the bus stop should come, and I should get a reprieve from her. After all, it is so cheap to raise an alarm telling that a guy is smothered, pricked and needled by a girl. I was just thinking about all those women activists, who come on roads to protect women and all; if they see such women activities, I don’t think they will bother to continue their practice. ARD was all aware of what was happening around, and he was enjoying more than me at the end, pitying on my condition. I was not able to do anything, as any protest could have changed the expression of those 20 pair of eyes, from jealousy to violent. I have heard that in all such situations, everyone supports the fairer sex, without even considering who is guilty and who is victim. So the only thing which I could do was to wait and pray. I only know the speed by which I got up when ARD told that next stop is ours. I left the seat and asked her to sit, so that she doesn’t traumatize any other Gaurav in further journey. She told me thanks, and sat and gave a big smile. I was somehow able to open my mouth and tell welcome, and got down in full speed.
I had a look around me. I was feeling as if I was out of some central jail. I looked at myself. I was still wearing that distorted and sweaty t-shirt which I had wore some 38 hours before, while staring from Bangalore. And early in the morning, I was not in the best of my looks (I do look handsome. At least my mom tells me that. And mothers don’t lie ;-)). I just thanked God that those 2 hours when I was waiting for ARD, I didn’t go for changing my t-shirt and tried to look fresher. If the effects of Set Wet Zatak Deo’s are same as that shown in the ads, I am sure I would had sued them for being so much provoking. But good, that I didn’t go ahead for doing any such thing. Or else, I don’t know what would have happened. I don’t know if I could have been able to get down that bus in a single piece, or she would have eaten me up.
This was in complete a new dimension for me, and at the end of the day I came to know why those gimmicks call this as ‘City of Joy’. You will never know where you will encounter the joy. It might be that the bus ride was very horrible, but once I got down from it, and the senses came to control, the only wish was to go for that ride once again. Just one more time, last time. J
But life was still not over. Still lots to see. So headed from there for my native place finally. Reached station and found that train has been delayed by another four hours. So again came back to ARD’s house. This time I was in a clean t-shirt, and everything was Set Wet. Didn’t meet any Miss Y though, had positive effects. I will suggest all my friends, guys, to use that Deo. It has positive effects. You can confirm this with ARD. Wat say ARD? Remember that auto wali ladki. Ha ha ha!!! Then we went back to station at 7pm again and got the train this time. Thanks Arindam, for being in the ‘City of Joy’.
One of my readers has asked me when I will stop writing about girls. Let me tell you, sorry, but not today at least. The last dimension is still to come. Guys, please wait for that also with same eagerness.
Contd…
* Guys, don’t come for asking those details. Especially Durga!!!
Hi guys. I am back. Hope you people didn’t have to wait lots for the further encounters. I got few comments for my last blog that it was little too lengthy, and I should make it precise. This time I am sure this will be compact, as there is not much to be written. ;-). Let us directly move to next scene without wasting much time. :-)
In my last edition I had boarded the train for Calcutta. Here I am.
Scene 2:
Location: Calcutta
I reached Calcutta at 4 am in the morning. Here my college friend Arindam (ARD) was coming to pick me up. He had told that he will reach by around 6 am. So I had to spend 2 hours somewhere around. Calcutta is one of the busiest places I know in India. Even so early in the morning, so many people were out in the road, as if the city had never slept. And over that the city is very dirty, and traffic is just dangerous. Only experts can drive here. Its not only two, three and four wheelers you have to take care of. Suddenly from nowhere a tram( a road train famous in Calcutta, u can walk faster than these trams; mostly suitable for young couples, who have much time in hand, to put hand in hand, as told by ARD) can come and remind you of your worshipped god. (Oh my God!!! Arey Ram!!! Hey Bhagwan!!! Ayyo Murugan!!! Hey Waheguru!!! Ayyo Swami!!! Oh Jesus!!! Yaa Khuda!!!). I don’t know why Calcutta is called as ‘The City of Joy’, where at each step you check yourself if you are still in tact. Anyways, had never thought that city will give me the other dimension, for a very short period, but a new dimension.
Strolling under the famous Howrah Bridge over the Ganges shore I somehow managed to spend an hour or two, when I got a call from ARD that he is coming. In between I had messaged and informed him that I had reached. He came at around 6.30. My next train was at 4pm. We decided to spend the day in his house only instead of wandering outside. We boarded a government bus from the station terminus till his house in Beliaghata. It’s around 30mins journey. In the bus, the left side seats are meant for ladies and right side for gents. Anyways we had no hurry, so we waited for an empty bus to come, and then get into it. ARD took the window seat, and I sat sideways. Slowly the bus started to fill up. All seats were occupied. Here came up, Miss Y, our heroine for this scene, dressed up in attractive and appealing pink (purple, anyways color hardly matters). I just wished that if she could come near to my seat and stand. And I just hoped that ARD will have that much courtesy that he will leave his seat for the lady. I couldn’t leave because, I had to carry my bag, and moreover I was not sitting in the window seat. Generally girls like window seats na!!! ;-)
I don’t know how many times before I have made such wishes seeing attractive girls, but God always had deaf ears. But what had never happened before had to happen today. She ambled (walked leisurely as if on ramp) and came and stood in front of my seat. For a hold in the bus she grabbed the iron rod of the seat just in front of us. Even I had kept my hand there. Our hands were just far enough, maybe few centimeters. Seeing her, both of us raised our shoulders; both praising our own smartness, attraction and magic which pulled that girl near to us. ARD slowly whispered into my ears that this bus further goes to the software park of the city. Like Dhoom movie, even I had a slight glimpse of my small and happy family, a glimpse where I was standing with Y and two small kids (obviously ours) and I couldn’t stop my smile, when I saw Y standing just besides me. Bus was fully packed by now, and it started with a big jolt. Her hand touched mine. There was a shock flow throughout my body. Anyway guys, this is normal, so don’t worry as it happens with everyone. She was fast enough to remove her hand, with a simper (shower of smile, I wish I could understand the meaning of that smile then). She wanted to tell me something, but couldn’t. All because of those dirty and bloody guys who were hanging around her neck. People kept coming in that bus and no one was getting down. She started feeling the push from people standing behind her perhaps, because she was slowly moving towards us (me to be precise). With her each movement I was growing happier. And I could clearly see the jealousy in everyone’s eyes, including ARD. I felt around 20 pair of eyes, they were watching me continuously, and maybe were making their wishes, about replacing me, and putting themselves there.
Anyway, bus started to roll and so did we. She came close, closer and closest. There was a time when I was enjoying all this, and ARD was watching it with a red face (with anger and frustration). Now this proximity of Miss Y had forced me to become red. I had started to blush (fair guy :-)). This being a family blog, I cannot give u further details in detail*. But next 20 minutes were like a fun-filled horrible ride for me. At the end I was just wishing that the bus stop should come, and I should get a reprieve from her. After all, it is so cheap to raise an alarm telling that a guy is smothered, pricked and needled by a girl. I was just thinking about all those women activists, who come on roads to protect women and all; if they see such women activities, I don’t think they will bother to continue their practice. ARD was all aware of what was happening around, and he was enjoying more than me at the end, pitying on my condition. I was not able to do anything, as any protest could have changed the expression of those 20 pair of eyes, from jealousy to violent. I have heard that in all such situations, everyone supports the fairer sex, without even considering who is guilty and who is victim. So the only thing which I could do was to wait and pray. I only know the speed by which I got up when ARD told that next stop is ours. I left the seat and asked her to sit, so that she doesn’t traumatize any other Gaurav in further journey. She told me thanks, and sat and gave a big smile. I was somehow able to open my mouth and tell welcome, and got down in full speed.
I had a look around me. I was feeling as if I was out of some central jail. I looked at myself. I was still wearing that distorted and sweaty t-shirt which I had wore some 38 hours before, while staring from Bangalore. And early in the morning, I was not in the best of my looks (I do look handsome. At least my mom tells me that. And mothers don’t lie ;-)). I just thanked God that those 2 hours when I was waiting for ARD, I didn’t go for changing my t-shirt and tried to look fresher. If the effects of Set Wet Zatak Deo’s are same as that shown in the ads, I am sure I would had sued them for being so much provoking. But good, that I didn’t go ahead for doing any such thing. Or else, I don’t know what would have happened. I don’t know if I could have been able to get down that bus in a single piece, or she would have eaten me up.
This was in complete a new dimension for me, and at the end of the day I came to know why those gimmicks call this as ‘City of Joy’. You will never know where you will encounter the joy. It might be that the bus ride was very horrible, but once I got down from it, and the senses came to control, the only wish was to go for that ride once again. Just one more time, last time. J
But life was still not over. Still lots to see. So headed from there for my native place finally. Reached station and found that train has been delayed by another four hours. So again came back to ARD’s house. This time I was in a clean t-shirt, and everything was Set Wet. Didn’t meet any Miss Y though, had positive effects. I will suggest all my friends, guys, to use that Deo. It has positive effects. You can confirm this with ARD. Wat say ARD? Remember that auto wali ladki. Ha ha ha!!! Then we went back to station at 7pm again and got the train this time. Thanks Arindam, for being in the ‘City of Joy’.
One of my readers has asked me when I will stop writing about girls. Let me tell you, sorry, but not today at least. The last dimension is still to come. Guys, please wait for that also with same eagerness.
Contd…
* Guys, don’t come for asking those details. Especially Durga!!!
Friday, March 20, 2009
My 3D Encounter with X-Y-Z!!!
Prologue:
Hi guys. Last week I had been to my native place. And now I am back with a new piece. I felt that best thing I can write this time is about my trip. So the blog becomes the travel-log. Innumerous incidents, sweet and sour happened across this entire week. I have picked up three out of them to depict here. I am sure at the end of it, u will surely agree, that why I preferred to have the heading as the three-dimensional axis.
Travel plan:
As I had to plan this trip in a short notice, so I didn’t get tickets in the direct train to my native. And I am still to witness being air-born, as I have saved that for some special occasion, not for this kind of travel at least. So I had travel from Bangalore to Chennai and then from Chennai to Calcutta and finally from Calcutta to my native town. My return journey was direct to Bangalore but.
Scene 1:
Location: Chennai
I boarded train on 28th February, Saturday morning from Bangalore to Chennai. The journey was ok, without many hiccups, except scorching heat in the latter half. The train reached there at 2.45pm, on schedule.
There, my dearest friend, lets say X (Being good at math’s I couldn’t refrain myself from using those algebraic aliases), our first dimension, was supposed to reach there and pick me up. My next train was at 11.35pm in night, and I had plenty of time in my hand, so we had thought to spend that time together. But alas! When I reached, there was no sign of her. I called her up, and she told me that she is on her way, and will reach in another 5minutes. After a long wait of 31 minutes to be precise, 5 another calls to her and her 5 another corresponding replies of reaching in another in 5minutes (God knows which watch she had put on, which was always adrift of the target place and target time by 5minutes), she finally arrived. By that time, I was burning with fire, and had all plans to blast her. In fact I had thought of all the sequential dialogues, which I had to deliver in angry young man (AB’s) style. But before I could switch on the ignition, something happened which changed the entire course of events.
Who says girls don’t have brains. I feel they have mightier brains to tackle the adverse conditions, which will make any gentleman nervous. Ravi Shastri, cricketer, will always talk during in his commentary about captains should have their plans A, B, and C ready while on field. If plan A fails, switch to plan B. If plan B fails, switch to plan C. If plan C fails, back to plan A. I am sure; he never did a research on girls. Believe me, they will always have plan A till plan Z to cover up such situations.
Anyways back to business, after seeing me she greeted me with a ‘hi’ and followed with a statement I will like to quote here. “How come Gaurav!!! You have become so thin. You have lost weight.” While waiting for her at the station, I had checked my weight, wasting 1 precious coin. I had gained exactly 1 and half Kg from last time what I had checked. Still since a beautiful girl had given such beautiful remarks, and an angry young man became a chocolaty hero within seconds. My anger melted away as if I was standing on Chennai road, in a hot afternoon with an ice cream in hand. Before I could put that in mouth, it all melted off. Then she added up another story; how her roommate Shalini, had promised to drop her till station, and ditched in the last moment, and she had to struggle in last moment to reach here; (Shalini, if you get to read this by chance, confirm me with your comment) otherwise she would had been in time. “Remember last time when you had come, I had reached 30minutes before and had waited for you”. This last statement with a smile was an indication to put an end to the current topic; a big full stop.
Next immediate target was lunch. I had avoided taking the same in train, so that we can have together. But my bloody…err sorry typo; my best friend had gobbled and come. That was enough to kill my hunger. You know right, I am the person with good heart and all. I was more interested in having lunch with her, than just having the lunch. Then we agreed upon a little snack. From there we went to Spencer plaza, a shopping complex and thought of spending the time there. Spencer is a big mall, and first centralized AC mall I had witnessed where I was still sweating. Chennai heat takes toll on AC’s also. But local people are so adjusted with it; this problem is only for outsiders. We headed towards KFC. Had chicken snackers and cold drinks, sitting on high KBC like revolving chairs. First thing that flashed was a Slumdog millionaire followed with Jaya ho!!!
After that we went out for window-shopping. We roamed for a long time. Out of all outlets, one that attracted me was a very small shop, named manonline. This shop was completely dedicated to all Manchester United fans. With jersey’s to all the accessories was available there. (Note: I didn’t find any such dedicated shop for Chelsea or Arsenal or Liverpool). After threshold limit, we got tired, and planned to sit somewhere. We found one ice-cream parlor. We went there and ordered our flavors. Mine pista, and hers butter almond. But finally she ended up eating my flavor more, after all my choice is always better. ;-) We sat there for a considerable good time, and we were willing to sit more, but in front of us those parlor people chucked out one couple, who had spent few hours, over a single spoon of ice-cream, and that ice-cream had turned into juice by then. I don’t know if I should call them shameless, because after all this, they both entered the very next juice shop and sat there with a glass in front. Hope they were not waiting for that to freeze into ice-cream this time. Back to us, we had heavy amount of shame left in us, so we got up and came out. Then we stood there in balcony, and chatted about all our sweet and sour memories of college life; our masti, fights and just everything. It was unbelievable, how time passed by so fast. Later we realized that we chatted for around 2 hours standing there. J
A small confession to miss X: Remember when we were chatting in front of that ice-cream parlor, one beautiful girl had come. Believe me guys; her face was just like a doll. Everything was just picturesque. I was not able to take my eyes off her. My eyes were following her everywhere, and it had started to look cheap (As told by Miss X). Seeing my inclination, jealous Miss X pinched me, and told that I should not look like that. People are watching me. I had completely forgotten that all this while I was standing with her. I came back in hosh. But I didn’t want to get caught red-handed like that. So I framed a story (learnt this in her company. remember plan A…plan Z). There was an ad put up just behind the head of that beauty. It was about ice-cream parlor chain opening in Dubai. So I lied to her, telling being from a Middle East team, I was interested in that ad and I was reading it, not staring at that girl. So sweet of X, she believed me. I am sorry re. I was looking at that girl only, and I can bet that she is one of the best faces on this Google earth. Now you don’t be J, my dear X. [end of confession].
Then we planned to do some serious shopping. We went to the outlets of Pantaloon and Westside. First we decided to explore the entire outlet, before finalizing about something. I was exploring it nicely, except for one place where I was forced to stop. Not because my feet were not moving, but because X had pulled my hand, and had changed my direction by 180 degrees. She stopped me from exploring because that section was restricted and dedicated to the fairer sex only. Who knows, another Columbus could had discovered another America, but not on that day at least. ;-) After exploring, and a number of trials, appreciations, depreciations and finalizations, we settled for few pieces. We prolonged our stay little further in that outlet; just to listen beautiful songs being played there. It was almost 8 and we headed for our dinner. This time to have that together of course.
We went to the Noodle House. The entire day had gone so sweetly and even the companion was so sweet that I hardly gave a second thought, and gave a nod to order for hot and sour soup. Followed by dragon chicken and shanghai noodles. We were fully stuffed. Came out and had a lime juice. It was almost 9 ‘o clock. Time to leave for her. Maybe, the toughest part of the day. But for safety reasons, it was too late, and we came out of the complex. She had to get a bus from the other side of the road. While crossing the road, I held her hand. She is still a kiddo, and too much afraid while crossing the road. She behaves like a mobile in vibrating mode (Just for fun X). We crossed the road, reached the bus stop. I was still holding her hand. I offered a silent prayer that bus should come only after minimum 10 minutes, or maximum after 2 hours. That maximum limit was framed with due respect to the timing of the train which I was supposed to board. But only heat is not the problem in Chennai, even buses are a big threat. The very second bus which came to that stop within a minute, was heading towards her destination. Language is a tool to express your emotions. I wanted to tell her that leave this bus, and take the next one. But I failed the language test. I had to leave her hand and let her go. Not because I wanted to do so, but since her hand was an integral part of her body, which had started the movement towards the bus. All the fun I had through out the day was suddenly over shadowed. She got into the bus, got a seat, waved hand, and the bus went off, and the life goes on.
Epilogue of Scene 1:
She had given me a lot of instructions, for how to get an auto and reach central. I was told to get into running autos, not the standing ones as they demand more. I was supposed to negotiate from 30rs and to finalize for maximum 40rs. But men are men. I went to the bus stop, got a bus, paid 5rs and reached central, waited for another 2 hours or something watching Madhavan doing some ad for exchange offer in mobiles. At 11.30 pm boarded the train and Calcutta, be ready, I am coming. J
This was the first dimension of my travel-log, the X-axis, the base, on which every one depends. And ironically, my base is my best friend too. Thanks a lot X, for giving me a memorable day. :-D Rest two scenes to follow soon.
Contd…
Hi guys. Last week I had been to my native place. And now I am back with a new piece. I felt that best thing I can write this time is about my trip. So the blog becomes the travel-log. Innumerous incidents, sweet and sour happened across this entire week. I have picked up three out of them to depict here. I am sure at the end of it, u will surely agree, that why I preferred to have the heading as the three-dimensional axis.
Travel plan:
As I had to plan this trip in a short notice, so I didn’t get tickets in the direct train to my native. And I am still to witness being air-born, as I have saved that for some special occasion, not for this kind of travel at least. So I had travel from Bangalore to Chennai and then from Chennai to Calcutta and finally from Calcutta to my native town. My return journey was direct to Bangalore but.
Scene 1:
Location: Chennai
I boarded train on 28th February, Saturday morning from Bangalore to Chennai. The journey was ok, without many hiccups, except scorching heat in the latter half. The train reached there at 2.45pm, on schedule.
There, my dearest friend, lets say X (Being good at math’s I couldn’t refrain myself from using those algebraic aliases), our first dimension, was supposed to reach there and pick me up. My next train was at 11.35pm in night, and I had plenty of time in my hand, so we had thought to spend that time together. But alas! When I reached, there was no sign of her. I called her up, and she told me that she is on her way, and will reach in another 5minutes. After a long wait of 31 minutes to be precise, 5 another calls to her and her 5 another corresponding replies of reaching in another in 5minutes (God knows which watch she had put on, which was always adrift of the target place and target time by 5minutes), she finally arrived. By that time, I was burning with fire, and had all plans to blast her. In fact I had thought of all the sequential dialogues, which I had to deliver in angry young man (AB’s) style. But before I could switch on the ignition, something happened which changed the entire course of events.
Who says girls don’t have brains. I feel they have mightier brains to tackle the adverse conditions, which will make any gentleman nervous. Ravi Shastri, cricketer, will always talk during in his commentary about captains should have their plans A, B, and C ready while on field. If plan A fails, switch to plan B. If plan B fails, switch to plan C. If plan C fails, back to plan A. I am sure; he never did a research on girls. Believe me, they will always have plan A till plan Z to cover up such situations.
Anyways back to business, after seeing me she greeted me with a ‘hi’ and followed with a statement I will like to quote here. “How come Gaurav!!! You have become so thin. You have lost weight.” While waiting for her at the station, I had checked my weight, wasting 1 precious coin. I had gained exactly 1 and half Kg from last time what I had checked. Still since a beautiful girl had given such beautiful remarks, and an angry young man became a chocolaty hero within seconds. My anger melted away as if I was standing on Chennai road, in a hot afternoon with an ice cream in hand. Before I could put that in mouth, it all melted off. Then she added up another story; how her roommate Shalini, had promised to drop her till station, and ditched in the last moment, and she had to struggle in last moment to reach here; (Shalini, if you get to read this by chance, confirm me with your comment) otherwise she would had been in time. “Remember last time when you had come, I had reached 30minutes before and had waited for you”. This last statement with a smile was an indication to put an end to the current topic; a big full stop.
Next immediate target was lunch. I had avoided taking the same in train, so that we can have together. But my bloody…err sorry typo; my best friend had gobbled and come. That was enough to kill my hunger. You know right, I am the person with good heart and all. I was more interested in having lunch with her, than just having the lunch. Then we agreed upon a little snack. From there we went to Spencer plaza, a shopping complex and thought of spending the time there. Spencer is a big mall, and first centralized AC mall I had witnessed where I was still sweating. Chennai heat takes toll on AC’s also. But local people are so adjusted with it; this problem is only for outsiders. We headed towards KFC. Had chicken snackers and cold drinks, sitting on high KBC like revolving chairs. First thing that flashed was a Slumdog millionaire followed with Jaya ho!!!
After that we went out for window-shopping. We roamed for a long time. Out of all outlets, one that attracted me was a very small shop, named manonline. This shop was completely dedicated to all Manchester United fans. With jersey’s to all the accessories was available there. (Note: I didn’t find any such dedicated shop for Chelsea or Arsenal or Liverpool). After threshold limit, we got tired, and planned to sit somewhere. We found one ice-cream parlor. We went there and ordered our flavors. Mine pista, and hers butter almond. But finally she ended up eating my flavor more, after all my choice is always better. ;-) We sat there for a considerable good time, and we were willing to sit more, but in front of us those parlor people chucked out one couple, who had spent few hours, over a single spoon of ice-cream, and that ice-cream had turned into juice by then. I don’t know if I should call them shameless, because after all this, they both entered the very next juice shop and sat there with a glass in front. Hope they were not waiting for that to freeze into ice-cream this time. Back to us, we had heavy amount of shame left in us, so we got up and came out. Then we stood there in balcony, and chatted about all our sweet and sour memories of college life; our masti, fights and just everything. It was unbelievable, how time passed by so fast. Later we realized that we chatted for around 2 hours standing there. J
A small confession to miss X: Remember when we were chatting in front of that ice-cream parlor, one beautiful girl had come. Believe me guys; her face was just like a doll. Everything was just picturesque. I was not able to take my eyes off her. My eyes were following her everywhere, and it had started to look cheap (As told by Miss X). Seeing my inclination, jealous Miss X pinched me, and told that I should not look like that. People are watching me. I had completely forgotten that all this while I was standing with her. I came back in hosh. But I didn’t want to get caught red-handed like that. So I framed a story (learnt this in her company. remember plan A…plan Z). There was an ad put up just behind the head of that beauty. It was about ice-cream parlor chain opening in Dubai. So I lied to her, telling being from a Middle East team, I was interested in that ad and I was reading it, not staring at that girl. So sweet of X, she believed me. I am sorry re. I was looking at that girl only, and I can bet that she is one of the best faces on this Google earth. Now you don’t be J, my dear X. [end of confession].
Then we planned to do some serious shopping. We went to the outlets of Pantaloon and Westside. First we decided to explore the entire outlet, before finalizing about something. I was exploring it nicely, except for one place where I was forced to stop. Not because my feet were not moving, but because X had pulled my hand, and had changed my direction by 180 degrees. She stopped me from exploring because that section was restricted and dedicated to the fairer sex only. Who knows, another Columbus could had discovered another America, but not on that day at least. ;-) After exploring, and a number of trials, appreciations, depreciations and finalizations, we settled for few pieces. We prolonged our stay little further in that outlet; just to listen beautiful songs being played there. It was almost 8 and we headed for our dinner. This time to have that together of course.
We went to the Noodle House. The entire day had gone so sweetly and even the companion was so sweet that I hardly gave a second thought, and gave a nod to order for hot and sour soup. Followed by dragon chicken and shanghai noodles. We were fully stuffed. Came out and had a lime juice. It was almost 9 ‘o clock. Time to leave for her. Maybe, the toughest part of the day. But for safety reasons, it was too late, and we came out of the complex. She had to get a bus from the other side of the road. While crossing the road, I held her hand. She is still a kiddo, and too much afraid while crossing the road. She behaves like a mobile in vibrating mode (Just for fun X). We crossed the road, reached the bus stop. I was still holding her hand. I offered a silent prayer that bus should come only after minimum 10 minutes, or maximum after 2 hours. That maximum limit was framed with due respect to the timing of the train which I was supposed to board. But only heat is not the problem in Chennai, even buses are a big threat. The very second bus which came to that stop within a minute, was heading towards her destination. Language is a tool to express your emotions. I wanted to tell her that leave this bus, and take the next one. But I failed the language test. I had to leave her hand and let her go. Not because I wanted to do so, but since her hand was an integral part of her body, which had started the movement towards the bus. All the fun I had through out the day was suddenly over shadowed. She got into the bus, got a seat, waved hand, and the bus went off, and the life goes on.
Epilogue of Scene 1:
She had given me a lot of instructions, for how to get an auto and reach central. I was told to get into running autos, not the standing ones as they demand more. I was supposed to negotiate from 30rs and to finalize for maximum 40rs. But men are men. I went to the bus stop, got a bus, paid 5rs and reached central, waited for another 2 hours or something watching Madhavan doing some ad for exchange offer in mobiles. At 11.30 pm boarded the train and Calcutta, be ready, I am coming. J
This was the first dimension of my travel-log, the X-axis, the base, on which every one depends. And ironically, my base is my best friend too. Thanks a lot X, for giving me a memorable day. :-D Rest two scenes to follow soon.
Contd…
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Why I am still single!!!
First of all, this piece is not my personal story. This is dedicated to all those guy friends (don’t read as boy friends please, especially Karan Johor’s recent fans) of mine who are still single. In past 7-8 years continuously whose mouths will open little wide, when a beautiful (sorry…. any) girl passes by. Their dedication towards every girl whom they meet or see is worth appreciating, but alas! That ugly-faced* never even turns back and sees. So from hereon I will try to mention ‘We’ instead of ‘I’.
Ok let us try to decode this Morse code. Before starting why we don’t have girlfriends, first, why we need girlfriends? Is it just because we can share something, might be personal, with her? That of course we can share with our guy friend also and maybe more frankly. What matters more is the trust, than whether the person is guy or a girl in this case.
If you have a girlfriend, you might have to wish her on her birthday at 12.00 AM, or else she will get angry and cry on your face next day. You might have to give her a nice present. What you have to give to your boy friend is only birthday bums and a common line – “You are grown up now. Still expecting gifts like kids. Chi. Grow up.”
Valentine day is another big example, where you might have to open your pockets for your girlfriend. While, your guy friend, ha ha ha. “Are you crazy? Such things are not allowed in Indian culture. What people will think if we both go outside together today? Some other day dude.” And that other day should never come.
But even after so many defects and maintenance expenditures, we still need a girlfriend. Why? Few need to show off to their buddies, that he has one; they hardly care for each other. Few just do it for fun. But why I need one?
A big debatable topic is which is better-“Love marriage or Arranged Marriage?” Anyways I am not going to discuss much about that. Both have pros and cons. Against arranged marriage, we can tell that how can one marry one stranger? That too when momma tells from beginning that you shouldn’t even talk to a stranger. On the other hand, love marriage lacks security in many cases. At least number of incidents tells that.
What I believe in is Arranged-love marriage. It is better to know someone before marriage. This allows having a better respect for your partner, and clear understanding of their needs and desires. And if everything suits, then hardly there will be any compromise, rather it will be complimentary to each other. If you don’t know her before marriage, then subsequently you people might have to spend few initial years (gem years) in understanding each other. And there can be compromises also, as there is no rewind button in life after marriage.
So it’s better to start a relationship as a friend, and if we understand and suit each other, we can change our relationship status later. The person with whom we have shared our best laughs, toughest problem days, sweet memories, bitter fights, it will be quite easy to share life with them. In short we need to have a good understanding before hand. So guys, I do need a girlfriend.
Now, one questionable topic, why we don’t have girlfriends, when we need one? Ask some smart guy, and he will answer that he doesn’t have time to run behind them, so even when he needs, he doesn’t have one. What is it that girls look out for? Is it brain, looks, physical fitness, smartness, bikes (cars added advantage), good at heart, richness, sense of humor, or blah blah? What is it that guys look out for? A girl. J
I gathered courage one day, and asked one girl. What is that you people look out for in a guy?
Girl: Listen, looks hardly matter. What matters most is that he should be good at heart.
Everything came in front of my eyes like a flash back. My parents, my relatives, my teachers, everyone were telling me that I am so good at heart in different episodes. I don’t remember I was so happy in recent times ever before. That entire flash back was a big block buster for me. Still I came back home, discussed with my friends about this, and they all told that this is the right time and right girl to propose. Next day, once again I gathered courage, and went and met her and proposed. Her reply was awesome.
Girl: Hey common! What are you saying? We are just friends’ yaar.
Me: But I like you, and I am very good at heart and anyways for you, looks don’t matter right.
Girl: Uffff. Give me a break. That I had simply told because I am good at heart. And you took it seriously. Poor chap.
This didn’t hurt that much, how much this fact that all my room mates were just hiding behind that bush and heard the whole conversation, and never allowed me a chance to protect my ijjat. I will never forgive those rascals.
Anyways, there are still people in world, who fit into all qualities expected by girls, still they are single. Why? I think the only answer to this question is “Girls are impossible to understand”.
The last statement is pretty genuine as it goes with the popular proverb “The grapes are sour”. (Angoor khatte hain!!!!). And even I agree with it proudly. Because they are sour for me too. Being in a democratic country like India, and following politics, what we have learnt is blaming others. (‘Us not having girlfriends’ on girls only telling that it’s their bad luck)
But reality is LuckByChance I am still single, and searching for one. So appeal to all girl readers, who are still single, you know where to contact me. I am still good at heart. :D Mummy!!! :-‘( I am still single.
*Condition Applied - If she would have turned back, she would have been an angel.
Ok let us try to decode this Morse code. Before starting why we don’t have girlfriends, first, why we need girlfriends? Is it just because we can share something, might be personal, with her? That of course we can share with our guy friend also and maybe more frankly. What matters more is the trust, than whether the person is guy or a girl in this case.
If you have a girlfriend, you might have to wish her on her birthday at 12.00 AM, or else she will get angry and cry on your face next day. You might have to give her a nice present. What you have to give to your boy friend is only birthday bums and a common line – “You are grown up now. Still expecting gifts like kids. Chi. Grow up.”
Valentine day is another big example, where you might have to open your pockets for your girlfriend. While, your guy friend, ha ha ha. “Are you crazy? Such things are not allowed in Indian culture. What people will think if we both go outside together today? Some other day dude.” And that other day should never come.
But even after so many defects and maintenance expenditures, we still need a girlfriend. Why? Few need to show off to their buddies, that he has one; they hardly care for each other. Few just do it for fun. But why I need one?
A big debatable topic is which is better-“Love marriage or Arranged Marriage?” Anyways I am not going to discuss much about that. Both have pros and cons. Against arranged marriage, we can tell that how can one marry one stranger? That too when momma tells from beginning that you shouldn’t even talk to a stranger. On the other hand, love marriage lacks security in many cases. At least number of incidents tells that.
What I believe in is Arranged-love marriage. It is better to know someone before marriage. This allows having a better respect for your partner, and clear understanding of their needs and desires. And if everything suits, then hardly there will be any compromise, rather it will be complimentary to each other. If you don’t know her before marriage, then subsequently you people might have to spend few initial years (gem years) in understanding each other. And there can be compromises also, as there is no rewind button in life after marriage.
So it’s better to start a relationship as a friend, and if we understand and suit each other, we can change our relationship status later. The person with whom we have shared our best laughs, toughest problem days, sweet memories, bitter fights, it will be quite easy to share life with them. In short we need to have a good understanding before hand. So guys, I do need a girlfriend.
Now, one questionable topic, why we don’t have girlfriends, when we need one? Ask some smart guy, and he will answer that he doesn’t have time to run behind them, so even when he needs, he doesn’t have one. What is it that girls look out for? Is it brain, looks, physical fitness, smartness, bikes (cars added advantage), good at heart, richness, sense of humor, or blah blah? What is it that guys look out for? A girl. J
I gathered courage one day, and asked one girl. What is that you people look out for in a guy?
Girl: Listen, looks hardly matter. What matters most is that he should be good at heart.
Everything came in front of my eyes like a flash back. My parents, my relatives, my teachers, everyone were telling me that I am so good at heart in different episodes. I don’t remember I was so happy in recent times ever before. That entire flash back was a big block buster for me. Still I came back home, discussed with my friends about this, and they all told that this is the right time and right girl to propose. Next day, once again I gathered courage, and went and met her and proposed. Her reply was awesome.
Girl: Hey common! What are you saying? We are just friends’ yaar.
Me: But I like you, and I am very good at heart and anyways for you, looks don’t matter right.
Girl: Uffff. Give me a break. That I had simply told because I am good at heart. And you took it seriously. Poor chap.
This didn’t hurt that much, how much this fact that all my room mates were just hiding behind that bush and heard the whole conversation, and never allowed me a chance to protect my ijjat. I will never forgive those rascals.
Anyways, there are still people in world, who fit into all qualities expected by girls, still they are single. Why? I think the only answer to this question is “Girls are impossible to understand”.
The last statement is pretty genuine as it goes with the popular proverb “The grapes are sour”. (Angoor khatte hain!!!!). And even I agree with it proudly. Because they are sour for me too. Being in a democratic country like India, and following politics, what we have learnt is blaming others. (‘Us not having girlfriends’ on girls only telling that it’s their bad luck)
But reality is LuckByChance I am still single, and searching for one. So appeal to all girl readers, who are still single, you know where to contact me. I am still good at heart. :D Mummy!!! :-‘( I am still single.
*Condition Applied - If she would have turned back, she would have been an angel.
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