Catching a red eye flight is one of the worst nightmares that come true within a couple of hours after waking up.
Vanitha and I were in the boarding hall of IC105 in Mumbai, when we struck a conversation with this old gentleman, who had a child like glint in his eyes. He was very happy as he had just retired and was gifted flight tickets by his son to visit them. As we boarded the flight the Chief Steward suddenly hugged our new friend. “Hey, nice to see you here, we just met twice after our school days, isn’t it!”.
I was busy reading the high voltage nonsense published in Mumbai mirror, when a tray surfaced right between my eyes and the paper – An action that suggested that candies were being offered to me. I felt a little threatened but I collected myself up and grabbed a couple of Minties.
I wonder what Indian’s strategy is, but I would like to remind them that stewards don’t have to pay for the tickets and therefore engaging senior citizens aboard doesn’t save them any costs. This is a stretgy that BCCI has adopted and by employing Chandu Borde as manager they only pay half price for his travel. I think Sachin will feel like a baby if he travels by Indian with Chandu Chacha.I guess the audience they are targeting are the middle aged travelers, who also get a chance to ogle, and not just be overwhelmed by barely 20’s skin show and toned physiques.
Also, I guess it is easier for these 40 plus uncles and aunties to wake up early and report to work, than their children.
Having said this, the next hour and a half was pure pleasure. There were these ‘60s and ‘70s songs that were playing in the background during take off and landing. The service was genuinely warm, and was not just a display of plastic smiles, an art that the younger fin flight crews have mastered.
Even while serving breakfast and coffee, there was this naturally courteous and warm “Sir/Madam”, though they were my Uncle’s age.
The pilot was a really seasoned one (may be his last flight before retirement ) as we did not even feel the jerk when the flight touched down, and a few passengers around us woke up only when the luggage compartments were being opened. I alighted from the flight feeling extremely satisfied, and thanked the steward with a warm smile.
24 June, 2007
15 June, 2007
Sivaji The Boss - Movie Review, Uthappam in a pizza box
A younger looking Rajini, a slimmer looking Nayantara, and a promising start with Balelaka really raises the hopes of the viewer by the fifteenth minute of the film.
This has been the year of sequels - Shrek 3, Pirates Of the Caribbean 3, Spiderman 3 and now it is Shankar's time to present his own Gentleman - 3.
A talented director can make movies on the same theme, but can't keep repeating movies with same screenplay and dialogues. There is no question of a dejavu when actually the film is filled with meticulous lifts from earlier movies, be it Shankar's, Rajini's ,hits like Gilli and even from unheard of movies like Aavaram Poo. Of course, Matrix will find a place in every Tamil blockbuster.
Having said this, this movie is a tribute to the sportiv champ called Rajini. He has to be commended for the way he imitates Vijay, Sivaji, MGR, Kamal, his funky hair style and costumes and above all giving sharing the screen with Vivek almost in every shot.
If you thought this review would carry the story, I will not play the spolier before the first weekend. Even if I want to, I can't since Shankar himself doesn't have anhything new to tell.
If Shankar had spent more time on the script than searching for the right crew, the product would have been much much better.
AR Rehman's background score for Suman and for Rajini at times are good but otherwise he has been lazy and keeps playing bits from the songs as BGM. Even SA Rajkumar wouldn't have overused his songs like this.
With great money spent on the sets for songs, which could make Software campuses look ordinary a little more thought could have been given to technical details. Some mid air dishoom sequences, have very poor morphing quality and one can see two of the Asian Paints 56 Blue shades.
The stunt choreography in the first half is pretty innovative. Vivek and Rajini get together for a fantastic display of timing and dialogue delivery. The best lines though are reserved for Suman. This villain really oozes class. Shankar would be thanking the stars that Mohanlal and Amitabh refused to sign up for this movie. What a comeback from the Black Belt!
This film has many records. After a dozen movies, Rajini goes behind the heroine big time and not the other way round. It is the first time that we get to see the secret behind Rajini's make up tricks.This is also the first time that I have seen a Rajini Movie first day first show, and also the first to leave the theatre. I did not wait till the climax as the entire experience was an anticlimax. The first half was summarised by my wife's long yawn, and the second half by the urge to get out of the theatre.
Overall Shankar Sir, " Neenga Comedy Geemadi onnum pannaliye"........
This has been the year of sequels - Shrek 3, Pirates Of the Caribbean 3, Spiderman 3 and now it is Shankar's time to present his own Gentleman - 3.
A talented director can make movies on the same theme, but can't keep repeating movies with same screenplay and dialogues. There is no question of a dejavu when actually the film is filled with meticulous lifts from earlier movies, be it Shankar's, Rajini's ,hits like Gilli and even from unheard of movies like Aavaram Poo. Of course, Matrix will find a place in every Tamil blockbuster.
Having said this, this movie is a tribute to the sportiv champ called Rajini. He has to be commended for the way he imitates Vijay, Sivaji, MGR, Kamal, his funky hair style and costumes and above all giving sharing the screen with Vivek almost in every shot.
If you thought this review would carry the story, I will not play the spolier before the first weekend. Even if I want to, I can't since Shankar himself doesn't have anhything new to tell.
If Shankar had spent more time on the script than searching for the right crew, the product would have been much much better.
AR Rehman's background score for Suman and for Rajini at times are good but otherwise he has been lazy and keeps playing bits from the songs as BGM. Even SA Rajkumar wouldn't have overused his songs like this.
With great money spent on the sets for songs, which could make Software campuses look ordinary a little more thought could have been given to technical details. Some mid air dishoom sequences, have very poor morphing quality and one can see two of the Asian Paints 56 Blue shades.
The stunt choreography in the first half is pretty innovative. Vivek and Rajini get together for a fantastic display of timing and dialogue delivery. The best lines though are reserved for Suman. This villain really oozes class. Shankar would be thanking the stars that Mohanlal and Amitabh refused to sign up for this movie. What a comeback from the Black Belt!
This film has many records. After a dozen movies, Rajini goes behind the heroine big time and not the other way round. It is the first time that we get to see the secret behind Rajini's make up tricks.This is also the first time that I have seen a Rajini Movie first day first show, and also the first to leave the theatre. I did not wait till the climax as the entire experience was an anticlimax. The first half was summarised by my wife's long yawn, and the second half by the urge to get out of the theatre.
Overall Shankar Sir, " Neenga Comedy Geemadi onnum pannaliye"........
09 June, 2007
For heaven's sake
Dear Mahi,
A few years back when you set your foot on a cricket pitch against the Pakis in India and scored that incredible century and later went on to become the world's number one batsman, you were not just the best player but an answer to a billion people's prayer.You continued to enthral audiences with your Federer style stroke play on a cricket pitch and you had avergaes that could have been viewed as ordinary by Mike Hussey.With TVS Victor and Shampoos taking care of your financial needs and a Hummer to carry you around the town, Aapka Life tho ban hi gaya...But suddenly the harsh reality that international cricketers need to play both home and away matches caught up with you.
I thought only shcool kids get home sick, but I must say every inning you played in foreign soil felt like a message that you were sending across to the selectors that you wanted to get back home and drink two litres of milk every day.
And were you working in some corporate before you stormed into the international cricket scene. When a match can be won with a simple run a ball chase, you prefer to cork the pressure and show your heroics in a do or die situation (this scenario operates on home soil only). You would make any manager proud. What I really appreciate about you is the fact that you seem to be turning a blind eye to the danger engufling you. You have another wicket keeper batsman who is playing purely as a batsman in the same side, and all set to displace you from the Test squad.
Arise awake but score not unless you play in India is a philosphy that is worth a rethink.... Think about it.. if you can....
Regards,
A cricket fan whose time has frozen since the 1983 WC!
A few years back when you set your foot on a cricket pitch against the Pakis in India and scored that incredible century and later went on to become the world's number one batsman, you were not just the best player but an answer to a billion people's prayer.You continued to enthral audiences with your Federer style stroke play on a cricket pitch and you had avergaes that could have been viewed as ordinary by Mike Hussey.With TVS Victor and Shampoos taking care of your financial needs and a Hummer to carry you around the town, Aapka Life tho ban hi gaya...But suddenly the harsh reality that international cricketers need to play both home and away matches caught up with you.
I thought only shcool kids get home sick, but I must say every inning you played in foreign soil felt like a message that you were sending across to the selectors that you wanted to get back home and drink two litres of milk every day.
And were you working in some corporate before you stormed into the international cricket scene. When a match can be won with a simple run a ball chase, you prefer to cork the pressure and show your heroics in a do or die situation (this scenario operates on home soil only). You would make any manager proud. What I really appreciate about you is the fact that you seem to be turning a blind eye to the danger engufling you. You have another wicket keeper batsman who is playing purely as a batsman in the same side, and all set to displace you from the Test squad.
Arise awake but score not unless you play in India is a philosphy that is worth a rethink.... Think about it.. if you can....
Regards,
A cricket fan whose time has frozen since the 1983 WC!
21 May, 2007
Jaane Kyoon Jaane Kyoon Jaane... Kyoon
1. What fondness does Perarasu have with the Tamil Nadu map that he names his movies "Thirupachi""Sivakasi""Tirupathi (This was part of old Madras map you see;) )""Dharmapuri"and "Pazhani"...This is actually inspiring other directors to rename their movies.. Balu Mahendra is thinking of rechristening his next art movie Kaanja Komanam as Kumbakonam... Thevaya?
2.Why does majority of Malayalam movies have English Titles, When English itself is spoken like Malayalam.. Semma Dhil paa.. Though I don't follow Hollywood movies much, reading reviews of Mal movies gives me an alpa sandhosham...Englees Padam review padichen macchi types!
3. What fascination does Karan Johar, Rakesh Roshan and Ekta Kapoor have towards K.. It is more than what Madrasis have for 'h' in all names.
4. How does every movie that Raja Sen rubbishes with his reviews on rediff turn out to be a hit?
5. How does every movie of Shankar get released promptly after half a dozen delays?
2.Why does majority of Malayalam movies have English Titles, When English itself is spoken like Malayalam.. Semma Dhil paa.. Though I don't follow Hollywood movies much, reading reviews of Mal movies gives me an alpa sandhosham...Englees Padam review padichen macchi types!
3. What fascination does Karan Johar, Rakesh Roshan and Ekta Kapoor have towards K.. It is more than what Madrasis have for 'h' in all names.
4. How does every movie that Raja Sen rubbishes with his reviews on rediff turn out to be a hit?
5. How does every movie of Shankar get released promptly after half a dozen delays?
12 May, 2007
Dil he Chota Sa.. Choti si Aasha
Though I am not much into material aspirations, having a wishlst is only human
So here goes my top 5 on my wish list for the second half of 2007! This is in no specific order...
1. Himesh Reshamiyya singing an ARR composition.. both of them singing together might be even better... both pushing their nasal strings to unsubdued limits.. one oozing class.. the other oozing.... whatever
2. David Dhawan casting Alok Nath instead of Rajpal Yadav as the spearhead of the comedy brigade in his next venture (heard that Alok Nath beat Kulbushan Karbanda hollow in Great Indian Laughter Challenge 2.5)
3. Shilpa Shetty declining a press meet invite....she now likes all kinds of press. including richard Gere's auto gear one on her cheeks.
4. Narayanamurthy be left alone, and not be dragged into the Presidency race.Manmohan Singh has already proved that being good is not good enough to lead the country.
5. This is a very bold one..Ravi Shastri in the commentary box admitting on air that a post lunch session in a test match is actually inconsequential!
I leave the tougher task of rating the above to you guys..
So here goes my top 5 on my wish list for the second half of 2007! This is in no specific order...
1. Himesh Reshamiyya singing an ARR composition.. both of them singing together might be even better... both pushing their nasal strings to unsubdued limits.. one oozing class.. the other oozing.... whatever
2. David Dhawan casting Alok Nath instead of Rajpal Yadav as the spearhead of the comedy brigade in his next venture (heard that Alok Nath beat Kulbushan Karbanda hollow in Great Indian Laughter Challenge 2.5)
3. Shilpa Shetty declining a press meet invite....she now likes all kinds of press. including richard Gere's auto gear one on her cheeks.
4. Narayanamurthy be left alone, and not be dragged into the Presidency race.Manmohan Singh has already proved that being good is not good enough to lead the country.
5. This is a very bold one..Ravi Shastri in the commentary box admitting on air that a post lunch session in a test match is actually inconsequential!
I leave the tougher task of rating the above to you guys..
29 April, 2007
Irates of the Caribbean
*yaaaaaawwwwwwwwwwwwwnnnnnnn*
It is not every day that an average cricket would forget to watch the World Cup Semifinals twice in two days....i am proud to have done this and I am sure that I am not alone.
When ICC was deciding the modalities of the event, the minutes of the meeting were recorded with one small mistake...instead of "The world Cup is an event held once in four years", it was recorded as "The world Cup is an event held once for four years".. Haven't been witness to a longer edition, and this might last all the way until WC 2011 .....
With the Asian Honchos opting to get back home because of home sickness, and more to protect their families from educated yet senseless public, who were hell bent on vandalising the properties hard earned through endorsing MNC brands. The actual issue could have also been that they might have found it way too boring and demeaning to play in stadiums which were less populous than the cinema halls screening Dharam Paaji's comeback C grade Movies.
So there was this bright mind that thought it would be possible to infuse life into the tournament by taking one's life... Bob Woolmer the victim... downright silly idea.. for the minimal public interested in going to the stadium made a U turn to the Police Station, as there was more action there...
Super 8's.. Less said the better.. what was super about it? No one wants to comment...The only happy souls were the bookies who backed Banglas against South Africa.... Barring that every match has been extremely predictable and one sided, barring one England WI match...Even the commentary did not help.... Guess Sony recruiters were waiting outside ESPN's office for ex cricketers who got rejected by them, so that Sony could employ them at half price...
So am I looking forward to the Grand Final? Well I wouldn't be waking up until 1:30 at night and post this comeback blog..
Thanks for being patient waiting for my blog to be updated for close to four months.. hope i get better with the freqency of posts going forward.
It is not every day that an average cricket would forget to watch the World Cup Semifinals twice in two days....i am proud to have done this and I am sure that I am not alone.
When ICC was deciding the modalities of the event, the minutes of the meeting were recorded with one small mistake...instead of "The world Cup is an event held once in four years", it was recorded as "The world Cup is an event held once for four years".. Haven't been witness to a longer edition, and this might last all the way until WC 2011 .....
With the Asian Honchos opting to get back home because of home sickness, and more to protect their families from educated yet senseless public, who were hell bent on vandalising the properties hard earned through endorsing MNC brands. The actual issue could have also been that they might have found it way too boring and demeaning to play in stadiums which were less populous than the cinema halls screening Dharam Paaji's comeback C grade Movies.
So there was this bright mind that thought it would be possible to infuse life into the tournament by taking one's life... Bob Woolmer the victim... downright silly idea.. for the minimal public interested in going to the stadium made a U turn to the Police Station, as there was more action there...
Super 8's.. Less said the better.. what was super about it? No one wants to comment...The only happy souls were the bookies who backed Banglas against South Africa.... Barring that every match has been extremely predictable and one sided, barring one England WI match...Even the commentary did not help.... Guess Sony recruiters were waiting outside ESPN's office for ex cricketers who got rejected by them, so that Sony could employ them at half price...
So am I looking forward to the Grand Final? Well I wouldn't be waking up until 1:30 at night and post this comeback blog..
Thanks for being patient waiting for my blog to be updated for close to four months.. hope i get better with the freqency of posts going forward.
09 January, 2007
Vidya Balan all the way this new year!!
After a stunning debut in Parineeta, and a breezy performance in Lage Raho Muna bhai, Vidya Balan is all set to tantalize me and my fellow fans this month, first in Guru, the Maniratnam ensemble, a movie tightly etched on life and times of Dhirubhai, releasing this Friday, and later on the 26th, in Salaam e ishq, a Nikhil Advani ensemble believed to be on the lines of Love Actually..
Whats more, we have Eklavyaa, where Vidhu Vinod Chopra makes a directorial comeback after six years ready for release next month
Each of these movies has Vidya Balan in strikingly different roles, and there is no doubt that her performances are going to warm the hearts of the audience.. All the best to the true Pari of Bollywood!
P.S: Pramod – This might sound way too IMDBish I know.. So your comment can be anything other than praising me on my in-depth knowledge of this domain… J
Whats more, we have Eklavyaa, where Vidhu Vinod Chopra makes a directorial comeback after six years ready for release next month
Each of these movies has Vidya Balan in strikingly different roles, and there is no doubt that her performances are going to warm the hearts of the audience.. All the best to the true Pari of Bollywood!
P.S: Pramod – This might sound way too IMDBish I know.. So your comment can be anything other than praising me on my in-depth knowledge of this domain… J
31 December, 2006
Choices, voices and more
One doesn’t have a choice
With what has been given
What one makes out of it
Depends on how one is driven
- Yours truly
A couple of instances, in a span of minutes that actually fuelled these thoughts
Scene 1: Bandra foot overbridge – A beggar with crippled legs seeking alms from another polio inflicted person limping past him. Now the latter could have chosen to go the relatively easy way, but he chose to face the world..take it on with full zest, and be independent
Scene 2: As I climb down the stairs, I see two guys at the railway platform, and one of them was having the Reliance Prepaid promo bag strapped across his shoulders,which said ‘mujhme hei wo baath”, and he was busily miming his thoughts across to his friend…
Need I say more?
Wish you all a very happy new year! May 2007 and the years following that (just to clarify, I didnt mean 05/07) bring unlimited joy and infinite reasons to celebrate life!
With what has been given
What one makes out of it
Depends on how one is driven
- Yours truly
A couple of instances, in a span of minutes that actually fuelled these thoughts
Scene 1: Bandra foot overbridge – A beggar with crippled legs seeking alms from another polio inflicted person limping past him. Now the latter could have chosen to go the relatively easy way, but he chose to face the world..take it on with full zest, and be independent
Scene 2: As I climb down the stairs, I see two guys at the railway platform, and one of them was having the Reliance Prepaid promo bag strapped across his shoulders,which said ‘mujhme hei wo baath”, and he was busily miming his thoughts across to his friend…
Need I say more?
Wish you all a very happy new year! May 2007 and the years following that (just to clarify, I didnt mean 05/07) bring unlimited joy and infinite reasons to celebrate life!
10 December, 2006
Kaasimedu Raayar
Buoyed by the success of James Bond’s recent success globally, Kollywood has decided to cash in and remake 'Casino Royale' as 'Kaasimedu Raayar'.. did you see that initial teaser campaign featuring the intro song which as usual has been sung by Shankar Mahadevan whose rendition of intro songs is as predictable as Himesh Saab’s item numbers (~ A A Asikee Aasiki = Jhalak Dikh Laa ja= Aashik banaaya aapne~) and set to tune by none other than entry song patent holder Vidyasagar…
If you have missed to catch a glimpse of the rushes that has led to a few crushes, the start goes like this…
Porathu Podhum Pongi Ezhu
Naan Indha Thamizh Not Ezhu (007 nu sollaraaru baa)
Neeyo Naayar Avano Laayar
Naan Dhaan da….Da Da Da.. (echo effikt)
…….Kaasimetu Raayaru (glaring at the camera with the blood shot eyes))
Poduvaaru Draayarr Kasimetu Raayar (chorus at 60 decibels -low pitch)
Poduvaaru Draayarr Kasimetu Raayar (chorus at 120 decibels- ach pitch)
Now what is so unique about this? Just like how airports across the world are revamping their architecture to welcome the A380 into their facility, the multiplexes are planning to combine all screens together so that they can actually project the 7 Vijayakanths on a single screen (the matrix ishtyle intro). Currently only Prarthana theatre is geared up to showcase this spectacle as the screen is 7 storey tall and two buildings wide…
Looking forward to yet another rocking performance from Captain!
If you have missed to catch a glimpse of the rushes that has led to a few crushes, the start goes like this…
Porathu Podhum Pongi Ezhu
Naan Indha Thamizh Not Ezhu (007 nu sollaraaru baa)
Neeyo Naayar Avano Laayar
Naan Dhaan da….Da Da Da.. (echo effikt)
…….Kaasimetu Raayaru (glaring at the camera with the blood shot eyes))
Poduvaaru Draayarr Kasimetu Raayar (chorus at 60 decibels -low pitch)
Poduvaaru Draayarr Kasimetu Raayar (chorus at 120 decibels- ach pitch)
Now what is so unique about this? Just like how airports across the world are revamping their architecture to welcome the A380 into their facility, the multiplexes are planning to combine all screens together so that they can actually project the 7 Vijayakanths on a single screen (the matrix ishtyle intro). Currently only Prarthana theatre is geared up to showcase this spectacle as the screen is 7 storey tall and two buildings wide…
Looking forward to yet another rocking performance from Captain!
01 December, 2006
Dada(giri) Returns, with a Bong!
During the third one-dayer against south Africa,when India were tottering around on the field hapless as usual, Robin Jackmann asked Ravi Shastri a simple question “ Raaavi…Where are the Laxmans and Gangulys” .. Ravi Shastri was diplomatic.. “Robin.. Laxman will definitely be back in the Test side” and preferred to go silent on Ganguly's chances…
The BCCI selection committee has answered Robin’s question, and so our beloved Dada is back in the test side…And if you thought Ganguly’s return to the Indian team is more of a political move, than one taken on sporting merit, let me present to you excerpts from the first press meet that Sourav had after being called back…. You can draw your own conclusions from some extremely thought provoking answers from the Bengal Cat (A tiger that doesn’t roar)
Q: You have always been optimistic about returning to the team earlier than what most people would think, and your faith has paid off
Dada: Yes, I was always sure that I will win the vote of confidence of the majority of people who matter
Q: You also insisted that retirement was never on your mind..
Dada: Of course, there are some games, where there is no mandatory age for retirement, and you can continue to play till you have the will
Q: You even gave up Bengal captaincy in the wake of a probability that you might make it to Team India
Dada: I read somewhere that one can't hold two offices of profit simultaneously..so I thought I may not qualify to join the Team in Blue, if I continued captaining West Bengal Ranji team
Q: Sharad Pawar had a word with the BCCI selectors before the team was announced. Do you think running an organization with dual power centres is good in the long run
Dada: Depends on how you define long run. The country is running on dual power centre model for the last two years and likely to last for another three years, this way. Is this long term or short term, or has this hampered the country’s progress?
Q: Your form per se has not been really great either in county or in Ranji. What do you think contributed to your inclusion.
Dada: Anti-incumbency. Either you do well, or wait for others to do badly. (* the naughty Prince of Calcutta smile just got bigger than ever*)
Q: Finally, your relationship with the coach is not enviable by any standards. How do you think you are going to get along in your second stint
Dada: In this game, there are no permanent enemies or permanent friends. Situations change, and along with that, people also need to change.
The entire media contingent were awestruck by the pearls of wisdom from the former captain, and they actually thought they were interviewing Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee before the West Bengal State elections!
The BCCI selection committee has answered Robin’s question, and so our beloved Dada is back in the test side…And if you thought Ganguly’s return to the Indian team is more of a political move, than one taken on sporting merit, let me present to you excerpts from the first press meet that Sourav had after being called back…. You can draw your own conclusions from some extremely thought provoking answers from the Bengal Cat (A tiger that doesn’t roar)
Q: You have always been optimistic about returning to the team earlier than what most people would think, and your faith has paid off
Dada: Yes, I was always sure that I will win the vote of confidence of the majority of people who matter
Q: You also insisted that retirement was never on your mind..
Dada: Of course, there are some games, where there is no mandatory age for retirement, and you can continue to play till you have the will
Q: You even gave up Bengal captaincy in the wake of a probability that you might make it to Team India
Dada: I read somewhere that one can't hold two offices of profit simultaneously..so I thought I may not qualify to join the Team in Blue, if I continued captaining West Bengal Ranji team
Q: Sharad Pawar had a word with the BCCI selectors before the team was announced. Do you think running an organization with dual power centres is good in the long run
Dada: Depends on how you define long run. The country is running on dual power centre model for the last two years and likely to last for another three years, this way. Is this long term or short term, or has this hampered the country’s progress?
Q: Your form per se has not been really great either in county or in Ranji. What do you think contributed to your inclusion.
Dada: Anti-incumbency. Either you do well, or wait for others to do badly. (* the naughty Prince of Calcutta smile just got bigger than ever*)
Q: Finally, your relationship with the coach is not enviable by any standards. How do you think you are going to get along in your second stint
Dada: In this game, there are no permanent enemies or permanent friends. Situations change, and along with that, people also need to change.
The entire media contingent were awestruck by the pearls of wisdom from the former captain, and they actually thought they were interviewing Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee before the West Bengal State elections!
28 November, 2006
A String of relationships
How much of a difference does a string make to a person, and how much is it used to signify relationships…I can think of half a dozen strings /threads right away that substantiates this.
The rakhee tied to reinforce the bonding between a brother and sister, by birth or otherwise
The string that is tied on the wrist, and sometimes around the hip ;) to ward off the evil eye
The mangal suthra that symbolizes the start of married life for the woman,
The sacred thread that symbolizes the beginning of brahmacharya for a boy
The strings that are tied around the branches of trees in temples which denotes a prayer for well being of a beloved, or any desire for that matter
It is quite easy to understand this, as the tighter these strings are tied, the stronger and longer it lasts.. simple isn’t it?
By the way, I was saying that I can think of six strings and have mentioned only five……on hind sight.. thought would leave out the sixth, as this blog is rated as ‘G’… … please switch off your dirty brain cells that is looking to add two and two here ;)
The rakhee tied to reinforce the bonding between a brother and sister, by birth or otherwise
The string that is tied on the wrist, and sometimes around the hip ;) to ward off the evil eye
The mangal suthra that symbolizes the start of married life for the woman,
The sacred thread that symbolizes the beginning of brahmacharya for a boy
The strings that are tied around the branches of trees in temples which denotes a prayer for well being of a beloved, or any desire for that matter
It is quite easy to understand this, as the tighter these strings are tied, the stronger and longer it lasts.. simple isn’t it?
By the way, I was saying that I can think of six strings and have mentioned only five……on hind sight.. thought would leave out the sixth, as this blog is rated as ‘G’… … please switch off your dirty brain cells that is looking to add two and two here ;)
19 November, 2006
This one's for you, my Raakhi-ng sis! :)
This little eight liner is presented in a rather unconventional format
But hope this conveys the meaning that it sets out to :)
When we met after a decade, time just froze
When we get to talk, distances simply decrease
The friendly warmth , makes me feel at home
Are you the fridge, or are you the room heater?
If you are Q, then I am U,
Regardless of what happens
I will remain your shadow,
I will always be beside you...
Your's,
No longer raakhi-ng bro
But hope this conveys the meaning that it sets out to :)
When we met after a decade, time just froze
When we get to talk, distances simply decrease
The friendly warmth , makes me feel at home
Are you the fridge, or are you the room heater?
If you are Q, then I am U,
Regardless of what happens
I will remain your shadow,
I will always be beside you...
Your's,
No longer raakhi-ng bro
07 November, 2006
Arun, the Spammer!
Like every other sane person, I also get annoyed and irritated when I get emails from “Mmary” with a subject “Re:Your ticket to fantasy”. . Therefore, atleast corporates should have effective spam identification and removal rules, to ensure that employees don’t get disturbed by such crappy spams. And here is a company that takes this way too seriously...
Being a criminal is one thing and having a criminal brain is another. Extrapolating that.. being a spammer is one thing and having a spammer brain is another.. Here I was innocently sending a mail to my friends that I was planning a holiday in December, and that gets tagged as a spam as the subject line and the first line of the body of the message had the same text.
So the next mail, I had ensured that the mail subject line and content were not the same. Didn’t help much as the message was again as tagged as spam, because the body contained the word ‘virgin’. All I was telling him was that I would be flying back by Virgin Airlines L….
Since then, I have focused more on the subject and the text of the message than the actual content, and though this does not give as much high as hacking, it does give a very cheap thrill when the mail actually passes through as a non spam mail!
Being a criminal is one thing and having a criminal brain is another. Extrapolating that.. being a spammer is one thing and having a spammer brain is another.. Here I was innocently sending a mail to my friends that I was planning a holiday in December, and that gets tagged as a spam as the subject line and the first line of the body of the message had the same text.
So the next mail, I had ensured that the mail subject line and content were not the same. Didn’t help much as the message was again as tagged as spam, because the body contained the word ‘virgin’. All I was telling him was that I would be flying back by Virgin Airlines L….
Since then, I have focused more on the subject and the text of the message than the actual content, and though this does not give as much high as hacking, it does give a very cheap thrill when the mail actually passes through as a non spam mail!
22 October, 2006
Incredible India, well.......
Diverse cultures that infuse inclusivity
Communities that claim exclusivity
A nation is not built by mere numbers
People need to wake up from deep slumber
Was looking forward to a pleasant experience
A day that would increase national pride
Behaviour marking unprecedented indifference
All my expectations were taken for a royal ride
An event organised to showcase the identity
That we are one for all, and all for one
To a nation that is sportive and supportive
The incorrigible outlook, managed to impress none
A premise that education is an answer
To combat poverty and communalism
Was proven wrong with consummate ease
Ironically, on Diwali, it was darkness that prevailed
Communities that claim exclusivity
A nation is not built by mere numbers
People need to wake up from deep slumber
Was looking forward to a pleasant experience
A day that would increase national pride
Behaviour marking unprecedented indifference
All my expectations were taken for a royal ride
An event organised to showcase the identity
That we are one for all, and all for one
To a nation that is sportive and supportive
The incorrigible outlook, managed to impress none
A premise that education is an answer
To combat poverty and communalism
Was proven wrong with consummate ease
Ironically, on Diwali, it was darkness that prevailed
19 October, 2006
Finally it has Donned on me!
The movie buff in me wakes up every Thursday, and works feverishly to decide on the movie that would going to set the pace for that weekend.
And today, I just realized that I am actually looking forward to a Shah Rukh film, the Bollywood equivalent of Kollywood’s Vijayakanth. Theiir approach is going to be the same, irrespective of the character, still they rule the masses, either with sheer screen presence, metaphorically and literally respectively, or unintended comic sense.
The only difference this time, is that the movie I am looking forward to, incidentally has Shah Rukh, and to me he is not the one who will steal the show. I expect Boman Irani to steal the show, and Priyanka Chopra to steal my heart yet again J. If Shah Rukh sings ~Mein Hoon Kaun~, he might just get the best prize for winning the Fancy Dress competition for aping Big B.
And Farhan Akhtar’s technical finesse is something I am really excited about…
So, To see or not too see is not the question. when to see is the only question!
And today, I just realized that I am actually looking forward to a Shah Rukh film, the Bollywood equivalent of Kollywood’s Vijayakanth. Theiir approach is going to be the same, irrespective of the character, still they rule the masses, either with sheer screen presence, metaphorically and literally respectively, or unintended comic sense.
The only difference this time, is that the movie I am looking forward to, incidentally has Shah Rukh, and to me he is not the one who will steal the show. I expect Boman Irani to steal the show, and Priyanka Chopra to steal my heart yet again J. If Shah Rukh sings ~Mein Hoon Kaun~, he might just get the best prize for winning the Fancy Dress competition for aping Big B.
And Farhan Akhtar’s technical finesse is something I am really excited about…
So, To see or not too see is not the question. when to see is the only question!
12 October, 2006
Reality Bytes
There is something about these reality shows that keeps me rooted to my seat, and watch it till the very end of the episode, even feeling uncomfortable to switch channels during ad breaks. Am I addicted to these shows? No. However, when I switch on the TV if there is a reality show on air, I find it tough to give it a miss….
So much so that, when I have lunch at home, and I find that the sambhar that I cooked is less spicy, my laziness prevents me to get up and get some salt or pickles, and I all I need to do is just switch on the TV and Dr Phil guarantees adequate masala to keep me quiet and supplements my bland food effectively. Not a single case where he has given a firm direction, and whats more, end of the episode, he asks his clients, who are fresh from serial domestic fights, whether they want professional advice to bring them to peace, one wonders, what he was doing consuming valuable air time.. nevertheless it is engrossing and entertaining. Lakshmi in Tamil sob show “Kadhai alla Nijam” has a long way to go if she has to reach the dizzying iconic status that Dr Phil has achieved in preaching nothing.
Dinner time, and the judges of Australian Idol, Mark Holden, Marcia Hines and Kyle Sandilands, ensure that the viewers are taken on a roller coaster ride of emotions, not seen even in a Sooraj Barjatiya movie. I am not a great fan of Firang music, so I really can’t appreciate when a singer actually sings well. But unmindful of the limitations, I enjoy this show for the melodrama despite the predictability in the character sketches of the judges.
I actually grew nervous when Aus Idol got over (I think its over J ), when I chanced on an episode of Survivor. My God.. Innovative bitching on co survivors behind one’s back is the USP of this show…extended my dinner intake because of this show!
If I go any further in this direction, I might prefer Big Brother to a Captain Flick.. May the Force be with me, and stop me from treading this unacceptable path…
So much so that, when I have lunch at home, and I find that the sambhar that I cooked is less spicy, my laziness prevents me to get up and get some salt or pickles, and I all I need to do is just switch on the TV and Dr Phil guarantees adequate masala to keep me quiet and supplements my bland food effectively. Not a single case where he has given a firm direction, and whats more, end of the episode, he asks his clients, who are fresh from serial domestic fights, whether they want professional advice to bring them to peace, one wonders, what he was doing consuming valuable air time.. nevertheless it is engrossing and entertaining. Lakshmi in Tamil sob show “Kadhai alla Nijam” has a long way to go if she has to reach the dizzying iconic status that Dr Phil has achieved in preaching nothing.
Dinner time, and the judges of Australian Idol, Mark Holden, Marcia Hines and Kyle Sandilands, ensure that the viewers are taken on a roller coaster ride of emotions, not seen even in a Sooraj Barjatiya movie. I am not a great fan of Firang music, so I really can’t appreciate when a singer actually sings well. But unmindful of the limitations, I enjoy this show for the melodrama despite the predictability in the character sketches of the judges.
I actually grew nervous when Aus Idol got over (I think its over J ), when I chanced on an episode of Survivor. My God.. Innovative bitching on co survivors behind one’s back is the USP of this show…extended my dinner intake because of this show!
If I go any further in this direction, I might prefer Big Brother to a Captain Flick.. May the Force be with me, and stop me from treading this unacceptable path…
08 October, 2006
All the world is a stage
Chennai – Melbourne –Accra. Nandan Nilekani’s vision of winning in a flat world was slightly modified to ‘Playing in a Flat world’. This was possibly just the fourth time in my life that I was performing on stage. The interesting aspect being, no two times with the same exploits.
This time around, I was part of a students’ ensemble playing the Djembe, which is a West African drum, an instrument I have been learning for three months now. We were performing at the Esplanade which is one of the oldest Hotels/ Pubs in St Kilda which is the Summer Capital of Melbourne for its beach and added fun and frolic ;).
Our part lasted for just about ten minutes, but it was truly memorable. Since this was the first gig that I was performing in, the intial moments were jittery, but once into the groove, it was masti! I had a bout of nerves, before the event, but after I saw my fellow performers already down with a couple of beers waiting for our turn, I just told myself that it would not be as tough I thought it would be.
Once on stage, I had the shock of the evening, when I found that only one of classmates was on stage, and the rest from a different batch! Fearing that I was possible ascended on to the stage earlier than required, I checked with my teacher, if I was in the right place, and only later did I realize that rest of my class mates were sitting on the chairs they had brought for the event, and hence were occupying the first quarter of the audience space themselves.
The group was truly multi ethnic and the output just vindicated my belief that Music can be a Great Unifier.
The performance/stage is not even remotely comparable to the December season concert in Music Academy, but never the less, it was an enriching experience. There is nothing that quenches a performer’s thirst more than the genuine applause one gets from the audience, not even two bottles of Castle Lager!
A big thanks to my friends Pramod, Sriram and Dhaval for turning up early for the event, and standing up (literally), for me!
If you are interested in catching glimpses of Shivamani II in the making, feel free to mail me, and I will send across the photos/video clips, proudly presented to you by ace photographer Pramod!
This time around, I was part of a students’ ensemble playing the Djembe, which is a West African drum, an instrument I have been learning for three months now. We were performing at the Esplanade which is one of the oldest Hotels/ Pubs in St Kilda which is the Summer Capital of Melbourne for its beach and added fun and frolic ;).
Our part lasted for just about ten minutes, but it was truly memorable. Since this was the first gig that I was performing in, the intial moments were jittery, but once into the groove, it was masti! I had a bout of nerves, before the event, but after I saw my fellow performers already down with a couple of beers waiting for our turn, I just told myself that it would not be as tough I thought it would be.
Once on stage, I had the shock of the evening, when I found that only one of classmates was on stage, and the rest from a different batch! Fearing that I was possible ascended on to the stage earlier than required, I checked with my teacher, if I was in the right place, and only later did I realize that rest of my class mates were sitting on the chairs they had brought for the event, and hence were occupying the first quarter of the audience space themselves.
The group was truly multi ethnic and the output just vindicated my belief that Music can be a Great Unifier.
The performance/stage is not even remotely comparable to the December season concert in Music Academy, but never the less, it was an enriching experience. There is nothing that quenches a performer’s thirst more than the genuine applause one gets from the audience, not even two bottles of Castle Lager!
A big thanks to my friends Pramod, Sriram and Dhaval for turning up early for the event, and standing up (literally), for me!
If you are interested in catching glimpses of Shivamani II in the making, feel free to mail me, and I will send across the photos/video clips, proudly presented to you by ace photographer Pramod!
29 September, 2006
Autobiography of an Eternal Wannabe
In this season of endless biographies, authorized and unauthorized, and autobiographies,we are confronted with a precarious situation. Suneil Shetty is planning to release his autobiography “ The Eternal Wannabe”.
I have managed to lay my hands on the manuscript of the Preface to this book, using my far reaching contacts.. So read on as it might help you in knowing whats in store when you end up in the nearest Landmark Store to grab your copy
Preface
When my son Aahan brought me his English Homework book, and asked me to read his essay ‘Autobiography of a two rupee note’, my thoughts began to wander. Am I not worth even two rupees, for no one has even thought about a biography on me. Not to feel utterly disappointed, I took it upon myself to show the world who Suneil Shetty is.
My sincere thanks to the Bollywood producers who have refused to queue up in front of my house, with offers, for that has given me all the time in the world to finish this work. I have divided this book into two broad phases of my life- namely Being Sunil, and Being Suneil.
This book captures very little of my childhood, because I presume that when people are positively uninterested about me when I am a veteran Bollywood actor, their interest in my childhood can be no better.
The Eternal Wannabe is a vehicle in which I am going to take you through the journey of my career path, from the days when I wanted to be the number 1 action hero, before Akshay stormed his way into the scene, and then moves on to the days when I wanted to be a wholesome actor , before Aamir and Shah Rukh took over. And the journey doesn’t stop there.
Then I wanted to be a comedy actor, after the miracle hit Hera Pheri , before all three mentioned above took away the shine from me. I even touch upon the phase when I wanted to be a sought after villain after Main Hoon Na.
It then takes you through the most successful phase of my life, which is acting as the m+nth hero of any movie, and use Bollywood as a cash cow and not as a medium to attain glory.
Come, join me in this event filled journey and you will have the ride of your life.
Forever Yours,
Suneil
I have managed to lay my hands on the manuscript of the Preface to this book, using my far reaching contacts.. So read on as it might help you in knowing whats in store when you end up in the nearest Landmark Store to grab your copy
Preface
When my son Aahan brought me his English Homework book, and asked me to read his essay ‘Autobiography of a two rupee note’, my thoughts began to wander. Am I not worth even two rupees, for no one has even thought about a biography on me. Not to feel utterly disappointed, I took it upon myself to show the world who Suneil Shetty is.
My sincere thanks to the Bollywood producers who have refused to queue up in front of my house, with offers, for that has given me all the time in the world to finish this work. I have divided this book into two broad phases of my life- namely Being Sunil, and Being Suneil.
This book captures very little of my childhood, because I presume that when people are positively uninterested about me when I am a veteran Bollywood actor, their interest in my childhood can be no better.
The Eternal Wannabe is a vehicle in which I am going to take you through the journey of my career path, from the days when I wanted to be the number 1 action hero, before Akshay stormed his way into the scene, and then moves on to the days when I wanted to be a wholesome actor , before Aamir and Shah Rukh took over. And the journey doesn’t stop there.
Then I wanted to be a comedy actor, after the miracle hit Hera Pheri , before all three mentioned above took away the shine from me. I even touch upon the phase when I wanted to be a sought after villain after Main Hoon Na.
It then takes you through the most successful phase of my life, which is acting as the m+nth hero of any movie, and use Bollywood as a cash cow and not as a medium to attain glory.
Come, join me in this event filled journey and you will have the ride of your life.
Forever Yours,
Suneil
28 September, 2006
Lecture From the Sun to a Son
I had to get up and travel to the city real early today morning for an appointment. It was such a pleasant sight to see the sun real bright as early as 6:30.And this is what the Sun had to tell me, to ensure that I enjoy every moment of this spring...
Where were you yesterday morning
Were you hiding under the blanket?
Where were you yesterday morning
Were you still dreaming big time ?
I wait for you every morning
To get a glimpse of the fresh you
And you fail to meet me
When I am young and bright
I don’t want to leave you
In the influence of the dark
So I illuminate your world
Shining through the Moon
Has there ever been a day
When I have failed to rise
Seen the best and the worst
But never shrunk or shrugged
Its time for you to wake up
Enjoy the genuine brightness
Soak up in the real warmth
And liven up your own world!
Where were you yesterday morning
Were you hiding under the blanket?
Where were you yesterday morning
Were you still dreaming big time ?
I wait for you every morning
To get a glimpse of the fresh you
And you fail to meet me
When I am young and bright
I don’t want to leave you
In the influence of the dark
So I illuminate your world
Shining through the Moon
Has there ever been a day
When I have failed to rise
Seen the best and the worst
But never shrunk or shrugged
Its time for you to wake up
Enjoy the genuine brightness
Soak up in the real warmth
And liven up your own world!
A favour for Rahul -Part II
We continue on some more FAQs that will help Rahul meet the press with a straight bat in WC 2007!
MC: The toss was very crucial for this important match….
Scenario 1: Rahul wins the toss, elects to bat and bats out the opposition from the match
Rahul: Of course, in big games like these, you would love to have a little bit of luck going your way,and yes, the toss was very vital, as we were far more comfortable in bat out the opposition out of the match, then chase a total on this pitch.
Scenario 2: Rahul loses the toss, chases and wins the match
Rahul: The result should be determined by the team that emerges stronger in any given situation, and I don’t think the toss really has an impact on the outcome of the match.
MC: So how important is Tendulkar factor for the Men in Blue
Scenario 1: Sachin has scored a stunning run a ball 80 that has helped India win against Pakistan
Rahul: The effect of Sachin’s presence can never be explained in words. He simply lifts the morale of the side, and has an aura that keeps the team buoyant, and more he plays more the team gains
Scenario2: Sachin has been sent back home because of tennis elbow injury relapse and India lose to Pakistan
Rahul: Well, Sachin is a great player in his own right, but I think each one of us have to understand our responsibility and play to the full of our potential. Only then can the team click in the long run (*And you thot I will say Sachin is a thing of the past like what Veeru said about Dhaadha.. Sorry*)
MC: Irfan Pathan at Number 3. Is it still a unanimous ‘think tank’ decision?
Scenario 1: Irfan scores a match winning half century in an otherwise low scoring game
Rahul: Yes, We have fixed the slot for him, and as an all rounder he is only emerging with more promise after every outing (*just don’t think about his eight previous failures during this reply*)
Scenario 2: Irfan fails miserably at number 3, for the third time, and his bowling is also impacted because of this
Rahul: Well, Irfan is young and extremely talented. The world is not going to end after this World Cup for him. We are grooming him for the WC 2011, and what better stage than this to work on all permutations available as far as he is concerned (*I am tired of Irfan bashing.. may be this will keep the media silent for atleast two and a half years*)
So my friends, as you can all see, I am really investing time to help out Rahul with his media management, so that he can fully focus on his cricket and his on field thought leadership, rather than increasing wrinkles on his forehead fretting about the next round of media bashing. Wish me luck in this endeavour!
Punch Pandi's plea: In the absence of innovative stroke play or innovative captaincy, I only wish Dravid atleast develops an innovative media plan, and not make it so predictable, in the absence of which, I will not watch even the half a dozen matches that I watch them play.
MC: The toss was very crucial for this important match….
Scenario 1: Rahul wins the toss, elects to bat and bats out the opposition from the match
Rahul: Of course, in big games like these, you would love to have a little bit of luck going your way,and yes, the toss was very vital, as we were far more comfortable in bat out the opposition out of the match, then chase a total on this pitch.
Scenario 2: Rahul loses the toss, chases and wins the match
Rahul: The result should be determined by the team that emerges stronger in any given situation, and I don’t think the toss really has an impact on the outcome of the match.
MC: So how important is Tendulkar factor for the Men in Blue
Scenario 1: Sachin has scored a stunning run a ball 80 that has helped India win against Pakistan
Rahul: The effect of Sachin’s presence can never be explained in words. He simply lifts the morale of the side, and has an aura that keeps the team buoyant, and more he plays more the team gains
Scenario2: Sachin has been sent back home because of tennis elbow injury relapse and India lose to Pakistan
Rahul: Well, Sachin is a great player in his own right, but I think each one of us have to understand our responsibility and play to the full of our potential. Only then can the team click in the long run (*And you thot I will say Sachin is a thing of the past like what Veeru said about Dhaadha.. Sorry*)
MC: Irfan Pathan at Number 3. Is it still a unanimous ‘think tank’ decision?
Scenario 1: Irfan scores a match winning half century in an otherwise low scoring game
Rahul: Yes, We have fixed the slot for him, and as an all rounder he is only emerging with more promise after every outing (*just don’t think about his eight previous failures during this reply*)
Scenario 2: Irfan fails miserably at number 3, for the third time, and his bowling is also impacted because of this
Rahul: Well, Irfan is young and extremely talented. The world is not going to end after this World Cup for him. We are grooming him for the WC 2011, and what better stage than this to work on all permutations available as far as he is concerned (*I am tired of Irfan bashing.. may be this will keep the media silent for atleast two and a half years*)
So my friends, as you can all see, I am really investing time to help out Rahul with his media management, so that he can fully focus on his cricket and his on field thought leadership, rather than increasing wrinkles on his forehead fretting about the next round of media bashing. Wish me luck in this endeavour!
Punch Pandi's plea: In the absence of innovative stroke play or innovative captaincy, I only wish Dravid atleast develops an innovative media plan, and not make it so predictable, in the absence of which, I will not watch even the half a dozen matches that I watch them play.
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