Happy Birthday: What makes me swear by Amitabh Bachchan?

He is the man with the Midas touch. He needs no introduction for crafting acting into a fine art and entertaining us for decades. It’s October 11. The day in itself is an event. Today is Amitabh Bachchan’s birthday, the man who made us laugh, fall in love, romanced, cried and achieved our dreams for decades. I cannot be left behind. I go crazy at the mention of his name, Amitabh Bachchan, who made me love watching movies. After all, he is not known as the angry young man for no reason.

What makes me love Amitabh Bachchan so much? It’s simple. An emotional connection that we share with him and equation that only die-hard Bachchan fans can understand, with whom we share such a deep bond. There is no word to explain such craziness for the Big B, the man who is an institution of acting and an inspiration to me. He remains and will ever remain the one & only. Every film of his is an event that I look forward as a fan and makes a point to wish you on Facebook, Twitter or his blog. Amitabh Bachchan is a phenomenon that cannot be explained in words.

What makes me love Amitabh Bachchan so much? First, it’s his humility and modesty. Despite achieving so much and giving a super hit at the age of 74, Bachchan remains down-to-earth and approaches his craft like a newcomer. Sometimes, we tend to get arrogant but someone of the stature of Amitabh Bachchan reminds us that modesty makes us a learner forever. There is no such thing as putting self on a pedestal and thinking that our achievement is the end of the road. The day we think that we have achieved everything, we stop growing and are finished.

Secondly, it’s his bursting energy. Just imagine that at the age of 74 he can pull off a PINK and carry it on his shoulders to make it one of the biggest hits of the year. If Amitabh Bachchan can do it and work without complaining, why can’t I? He can put me to shame when I complain about life in all its form and whine about getting tired. The age of 74 is not fraught from body ailments and one is not fully in the full PINK of health and despite everything, Bachchan is dedicated and work extremely hard. It gives me hope as a fan to make things work.

Thirdly, Amitabh Bachchan is known in the industry as one of the most professional actors who is famously known for his punctuality on sets. In today’s world, the word, ‘Professional ethics’ seem to lose its sheen where there is often a lack of dedication and disregard for work. We must learn from Bachchan what being a professional means and to always be on time for a meeting or professional assignments. Never complain, always be on time and approach work as your prayer.

Fourthly, Amitabh Bachchan is always an inspiration be it penning a letter to his grand-daughter Aradhya or Navya Naveli and never shies away from speaking on women issues. Bachchan is someone who has always believed in equality of sexes and treated women with utmost respect. At a time, when there is a lack of respect, rape, and assault of women, Bachchan always reminds us of the need to respect women in society to treat them as our equal.

Fifth, his words weave like magic, be it his grain of Philosophy on Kaun Banega Crorepati that makes us believe in the beauty of life, no matter how tough life gets. He has such an effect on me. His mere presence touches the soul. He faces so many criticisms but he mastered the art of silence. Sometimes, silence is the biggest virtue. Amitabh Bachchan has risen from the ashes and emerged as a Phoenix so many times, be it his steering comeback after he was done and dusted with politics or when they buried him when he was heavily into debt. Like the Mohicans, he silenced his critics through his hard work, sheer dedication and the never say die attitude. Or when he was heavily injured on the sets of Coolie or in 2005 when he was hospitalized. 

Like a true superhero, he emerged victoriously and conquered all demons to battle death. He is Amitabh Bachchan. He is my God. Often, when I go through a rough patch, I think how Amitabh Bachchan would tackle problems in life.

Heart is not made of PINK

His voice choked with emotions. The thin and frail young man's mouth oozed blood, bore scratch and his body was bruised. He crawled and limped his way to the court. They were out to get him, The gang wouldn't rest till they settled scores with him. He wanted to be a savior when they dragged the girl at the abandoned and decrepit mill in Old Bombay. He stopped to pee behind the building and lit a cigarette when he heard a girl's cry of despair which they forcefully dragged to rape. 

The good samaritan that he was always taught to respect and protect a woman's honor. After all, he was born from the womb of a woman. How can he pretend that nothing happened? He is a common man and he couldn't beat those four ruffians who were trying to gang rape an innocent woman. He threw a stone on one of the assailants and hit him on the head. Stones were unfurled like a barricade of guns, The gang was distracted and ran for cover. In the flick of seconds, he ran towards the girl and shouted, "Just pull your clothes. We don't have time. Let's run."

They ran for their life and breathed profusely. They fell down while trying to cross the bridge, skin bruised while pushing away branches and thorns. The ruffians were within touching distance. The girl was finally to jump the metal roof and crossed the bridge but he fell down.  She turned around and stopped. He shouted at her, "Just run for your life. You can make it. Go, I tell you." She had no choice and in no time, sprinted like a mad woman on the busy street.

He couldn't move. They pounced and beat him to death."You are a saint. You saved her. Now, who will save you from us? Acting like hero and all! Do you hero giri now. See how life is pricey. We will torture you to death."

They kept him inside the dark and dilapidated building for days. The woman's life was saved and much against her parents' wishes, she boldly filed a case at the police station and called the media. This random guy saved her life. She is going take a stand and fight her way to save the guy's life. Her heart is not made of pink. Her favorite color is Pink but it has no gender. Pink is the color of humanity. She doggedly decided to fight for her ideals. The culprits will be brought to book.

The case was heard at the Bombay High Court. The prosecution lawyer hearing was heard and the judge decided to give another hour for the witness to reach court. The defense lawyer argued that she is cooking a story and conspiring to frame three innocent boys who belong to honorable families.

The kidnapped man gave the ruffians a slip and crawled his way in the rainy weather. He slipped and fell down several times, hit by bullets in the legs and finally made his way out, zigzagged on the busy street like a beggar to reach court. He collapsed on the table. The defense lawyer showed the video clip on the mobile. The three men were given life sentence.

A young man stood for a young girl at the cost of his life when probably most of them would feign ignorance owing to fear. A girl raised her voice against the system at the cost of being maligned as a prostitute.

A heart is not made of PINK. Two young people choose to make PINK the color of life, justice and ideology.

Pink-The film releases on Friday, September 16. It's a story that revolves around three Delhi-based girls who crosses path with a yesteryear lawyer played about Amitabh Bachchan. The ensemble cast comprises Taapsee Pannu, Angaad Bedi, Kirti Kulhari, Andrea Taring and Piyush Mishra. Produced by Shoojit Sircar, the film is directed by Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury. Pink is not just a film but a thought, an idea about morality and the system. How far would you go to stand for something which is morally right? Pink answers your questions that perhaps warrant a change in mindset, questioning your beliefs and shaking the system.

The film has already garnered positive reviews among the film industry and critics has showered praise, terming it as the film to be watched this year. Wear PINK and watch the film. Releasing all over. The suspense is out today.

Love
V

India vs Pakistan: One Voice always! India! India echoes

A gentlemanly game is truly genderless when men and women find an echo, a common voice to bring a nation together. When you have a common cultural aim in all fun, beat Pakistan? The game is cricket that brings seamless Indians together. Forget the intolerance and war of words among fellas in the country.

Indians swear by cricket, Sachin Tendulkar, Amitabh Bachchan and beating Pakistan to maintain our record. When the blockbuster sixer combo is rolled together, you know what happens? Fire sparks. We debate fiercely debating about everything that matters. After all, we are not called Argumentative Indians for nothing? We are at each other's lungs about intolerance, beef ban and extremism on both sides.

The fury is forgotten when the country's monument and national treasure, Amitabh Bachchan recites the national anthem, Jnana Gana Mana with passion and pitching for our win at the stadium with the God of cricket by his side, Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar. Yes, it brought the country together and Team India could do no wrong against Pakistan, maintaining our clean record against our lovable neighbour. We fight on the pitch with good stead. India vs Pakistan that was played on Saturday brought me back to the memory of World Cup in 2011 when we smash and fought it the hard way. India, men and women became one. There was no caste, sex or religion or for that matter, Bhakts or Sickulars. Perhaps, we should coin a new word, Cricket freak. India won not just on but off the pitch.

Beating Pakistan with Virat Kohli smashing it out makes us feel that we have won World War 3 and the T-20 World Cup.

It’s pure ecstasy. We freak out and after all, it's a matter of life-and-death, looking how quickly and back-to-back we lost 3 wickets in the match. It was a close shave and we won by 6 wickets. The best and cherished moment for fans was when Virat Kohli, the man who blasted the match with the memorable shot bowed to The Man who carried Indian Cricket on his shoulders for 29 years, Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar who gave a thump up, showing his emotions that he never left the game. An inspiration, Sachin Sir remains forever and what moment when the Indian cricket team saluted after the match. It's the kind of emotions that triggers in us patriotism and sense of belonging to the nation, no matter where we live.

India vs Pakistan, the match that frays our nerves and passion be it among commoners or netizens. It's a matter of do or die.

It's been after four years that I followed the match yesterday after I almost courted heart attacks post Pakistan semi and Sri Lanka final in 2011. I vowed that I won't be following cricket after the God, Sachin Tendulkar retired. I kept the promise. But, yesterday, was different and was like the old days. Amitabh Bachchan and Sachin Tendulkar, my icons at Eden Garden cheering against a side we love to see losing and celebrating. Yes! We did! I am not in India right now and was alone at home yesterday. Turned the wardrobe upside down to fish for an old version of my cricket tee.

Team India won! Bleed Blue.

Bachchan Mania: Jahan hum khade hai line wohi shuru hota hai

The traffic is coming to a stand still. Maximum City has suddenly stopped in its track and hearts are beating faster. Cars and buses are honking at Juhu. A phenomena has already rose and hit the city this October 11. A tall shadow has emerged as tears of joy flowing and the roads are turning into sea everywhere. It's the Big B's birthday, Amitabh Bachchan, Don ke jaise banna mushkil hi nahin namumkin hai. There was Amitabh Bachchan, there is Amitabh Bachchan and there will always be Amitabh Bachchan, Kal bhi Bachchan aur Aaj bhi Bachchan.

Today, the man turns 73, the forever young and evergreen who rules our hearts for more than four decades of acting and entertainment. He remains an inspiration to me always. Whenever, I am in the dumps, I try to think how Amit Sir would tackle this situation in life for it's his approach that turned things in his favor despite the challenges he faced and lows in his career.

The connect he has with the audience and his fans, is not only phenomenal but mesmerizing and there are very few like him who would do several retakes till he gets the scene right. I mean, it's a lesson than we should learn in terms of dedication, never lose hope and fight till the end. The kind of commitment he shows towards his work and how he bounced back post the Coolie accident when he was in the coma and rose like the Phoenix after his company, ABCL failed, to overturn his fortune deserves respect. Simply admirable and indomitable spirit.

Bachchan Sir is an inspiration to many of us and is a grim reminder that nothing is permanent in life whether it's pain or sorrow. The kind of patience he has displayed in his entire career is a great lesson that I keep learning and how despite achieving so much in life, he has always remained grounded and rooted. It's something that many of us should learn from him and I personally admire how he has managed his career with the never-say-die-attitude. 

Sometimes back, I was going through a tough phase in life and Gayu, a good friend of mine who knows how much I admire Bachchan Sir, told me just imagine that my life is a film and that I am acting in it, I am Amitabh Bachchan and that he is sitting watching me. Once he is done watching me, he gives tips on how I could have bettered the act and change my perception about things.

Trust me, it was bang on and spot on action that brought a change in our attitudes to life. There are zillion fans of AB in India and many of us who aspire to be like him and be him. I cannot be him. There is only one Amitabh Bachchan who played an important part in shaping my life, whether it's watching his movies, overcoming his struggles and be successful in life. The very thought of thinking about the words he spoke and listening to him feels like magic. I tell myself, I gonna nail it. Just imagine that the man was in the dumps and people wrote him off, he overturned the situation to make KBC a household name and brought the world on its knees. This is power to me.

Now, you know why the man keeps inspiring me to be better at what I do and to overcome the rough weather. His baritone voice is like a magic wand and one gets the feeling that life will get better. What we need is patience, perseverance and hard work. Once I read in an interview how he said that his life is an everyday battle. How true! Or, reciting the verses of his illustrious father, Dr Harishnvansrai Bachchan verses, whether it's Madhushala or how pain or joy is momentary. It's one of my favorite quote: Mann ko ho toh achcha hai..no ho toh zyaada achcha hai!! Kyun ki phir wo ishwar ke mann ko hota hai aur iswar aap ko hamesha achcha chahega!!! (If things are moving against your wish then it's the almighty wishing good for you.), Jab tak Jeewab hai Sangharsh hai (Till there is life, there is struggle).

It couldn't better than that the Big B himself repeating his father's words that spread like magic and ushering positive vibes in my life. I get a magical feeling, listening to such powerful words. Friend, Philosopher, Guide, Inspiration, that's the role Shri Amitabh Bachchan plays in my life. My hero, my inspiration. Happy wala budday, Sir. Agneepath, Agneepath, Agneepath, na thakega na thamega kabhie, tu na mudega kabhie,, Kar Sharpath Kar Shapath, Agneepath.

Letter to my beloved superstar & inspiration, Shri Amitabh Bachchan

My Amitabh Bachchan digital autographs sent on my Twiter handle on Big B birthday on October 11

Respected Superstar,

Dearest Amit-ji,

It dates back to two decades that as a teenager that I was sending you hand written mails in the hope that you shall reply to me. It's been my hero worship during the days when I looked up in anticipation at the postman, secretly hoping that I'll get a letter from Pratiksha Bungalow, Juhu 10th Road. I was a star struck teenager, secretly calling you 'Bhaiya' in my cute little heart. 

Being a 90s kid, I longed for my next Amitabh Bachchan flick throughout the later part of the decade. Sadly, you broke the heart with your five year hiatus to shy away from the camera. I was wondering how someone like you can stay away from the shutterbug! It was crazy, I know for a fact that the Hindi film industry cannot exist without the mention of your name. Finally! You came back with Mrityudaata-I pushed myself to see sense in this one-and Lal Badshah followed-yeah, I enjoyed this one. Little did I realize that as fans we would face the tribulations you've gone through. It was painful to see our most loved superstar going through the worst phase in his career. I was silently praying that like the Phoenix, my superstar would rise from the ashes to make the world bow to his feet. After all, Heroes cannot face failure and not conquer it through sheer magnetic power. After all, you are Amitabh Bachchan. Finally, like in your movies, you won hearts with KBC, gave a new meaning to TV and experimented with a variety of roles. We found back our superstar who motivated us with snippet of wisdom on Kaun Banega Crorepati. 

Amitji, you are such a motivating factor in my life. How you inspired me to wake up from my slumber in life? Often, when I am down, I think what you must have gone through to cope up with stress and beat the blues in life. It gives me such courage when I read your favorite line, 'Mann ka ho toh achcha .... na ho toh zyaada achcha !! kyun ki phir wo iswar ke man ka hota hai, aur iswar aap ka hamesha achcha chahega !!!'

It gives me the courage to get up in life and face tribulations as well as upsets thrown at me by life. When the mood is down, I watch your rendering of your father Shri Harishvansrai Bachchan favorite poem, Madhushala' which is soothing to the ears, heart and soul.

Did I tell you that as a teenager I would repeat your dialogues in front of the mirror?! Yes, I was repeating, 'Rishtey Mein Hum Tumhare Baap Lagte Hai Naam Hai Shahenshah, Vijay Dinanath Chauhan from Agneepath and Aaj Khush to Bahot hue from Deewar and got them recorded in the 'vintage' audio cassette. When Mom and Dad discovered my closely guarded secret, I didn't know where to bury my face. 

Later, during college, I repeated the dialogues in front of friends during our Saturday daaru party and they would insist that I ape you in the golden, baritone voice. I did a good a job of aping you like a monkey. I need to narrate how after our college festival where I was a volunteer, I repeated the Shahenshah dialogue in front of a couple of students who clapped. It sent shiver down the spine and days later, a girl congratulated me for that. I can do a good job imitating you, Sir. Once I was walking down Fergusson College Road and there was a van of 'Indian Idol' stationed. I was prodded to sing a song and since, I don't know how to sing, I repeated Aaj Khush to Bahut Hue' from Deewar. I got a cool Tee of Indian Idol as a gift. So much for the Bachchan influence.

A bundle of memories you've given to me, right from childhood to teenage days and adulthood. You made me dream about movies and is the reason that I breath cinema in my veins. I wanted to become an actor and a film director and you were the reason that made me dream about cinema. Somehow, the dreams couldn't be translated into reality but my love for movies and Bachchan has not subsided over time. You played an important part in my growing years where I would watch you dance, laugh with you and do dishum dishum as you beat the villains.

What do an ardent and crazy Bachchan admirer types in a blog post?! For sure, it's been decades when I'd pour ink on paper, thinking what to write on the flawless white sheet that one would fold into the envelope. Today, you are one of the most active celebrities on the social media that re-defined our relationship with stars. It was imaginable, decades ago, for me to tweet you since the biggest superstar in the world or any other star, for that matter, were deemed unreachable like stars in the sky. There was a certain mystery surrounding film stars and an enigma that they are not within our reach but slunk on their throne in the sky. When you tweet me a personalized digital autograph, it's my Bachchan moment.

As you turn 72, this letter may not reach your abode in Mumbai, Amit-ji but it's my way to tell how much I love, revere and adore you coz you made dreams come true. Yes! I have been a crazy Amitabh Bachchan fan, nurturing dreams that someday that I can pen a book on you. That would be my aha moment in life. You've been a great influenc,e Amit Sir and thank you for the dreams, entertainment and inspiration to better myself as a human being. The dedication for your art, passion and zeal that you approach every new project with the keenness of a child puts the lazy me to shame. Perhaps, some day, we can meet 'again' and sit to talk about cinema. I got so much to show you, my collection of your posters, audio cassettes, magazines and press cuttings.

Post-letter: Like millions of fans, I've met you among the crowd a couple of times. I remember during a special show for Hum, there were several kids who jump the metal barriers as you got up to perform. The cops lathi charged us and you stopped them, shaking hands with each and everyone of us. As I grew up, I met you during the shooting of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, I got your autograph and again during the screening of Hum Kisse Se Kum Nahin, I gave you a birthday greeting card way back in 2000. I was sporting a French cut modeled on my superstar and remember you smiling and stroking the beard. It was my Bachchan moment. I met my God of acting that day.

With Love, respect and admiration,

Mr Bachchan & hope someday you get to read the letter from a child who grew up watching your movies for two decades.

Vishal

Happy Birthday to my idol & inspiration, Amitabh Bachchan

Happy Birthday to the man,

on whose movies I grew up,

who gave me memories to cherish on celluloid.

An inspiration who made me dream in every single moment as he captured imaginations and emotions.

He made me laugh, cry, dance and sing, imitating his rich, baritone voice.

The man who made me love movies and who charmed me to his way.

His fight against the system taught me that it's perfectly alright to be angry, at times, with life that can be unfair.

He was the dream of every child, each one of us wanted to be like him.

His persona, charisma, tall shadow.

Mouthing his dialogues make us believe in the self.

I modeled my hair style on him as he gave me an identity.

I wanted to be him.

But, there is only one like him, my hero worship and a cult that grow bigger and bigger every single day.

Happy birthday to my childhood hero on whose movies I grew,

the one & only,

Amitabh Bachchan.

Happy wala budday, Sir,

as you turn 72.

With Love and Devotion

Vishal

Chalo Amreeka Saathiyon..Ab Acche Din Aa Hi Gaya, Obama-ji

Our dear, Barack Obama, must be thanking his stars! After the American administration lost the visa stamp for years and finally recovering it post May this year, Obama 'Yes! We Can! must be borrowing a cue from India how to get the US Congress win the next election. A plausible scenario! You bet!

Image downloaded on Google India

At a time when the US economy is in the lurch, Modi-nomics promises to save Yankees from the looming disaster. It's like Amitabh Bachchan telling the US immigration officer in English Vinglish, 'I am here to spend some dollars to grow the US economy. You don't want it!"

A lil' bit on Gyaan on the American soil on the great American Dream! Soon, Obama will start singing, 'Ab ache Din Ayega America Mein, brushing up his Hindi. Or, will he say, 'Ab ke Baar Modi Sarkar. See, Modi is going truly global as New York is dazzled to his charm, singing 'NaMo, NaMo'. Madison Square will enter the Guiness World Book Record as NaMo stood tall, witnessing the hero of the day, delivering his monologue. Now, who says, India can never make it to the Oscar? Of course, we can. Yes, We Can. Modi has already made it to the Oscar as India creates history in a non-film award for acting.

Pic credit: PMO India (@PMOIndia) | Twitter

Now, can our NRIs left behind as they stormed the Madison Square to get some incentive from Modi, proudly displaying their American-Indian flags to the great delight of TV crew. What a proud moment for them, one is tempted to ask. After all, they have just been credited as the crew who made the NaMo film, 'An Ache Din Aa Hee Gaye' a roaring success. Now, most of them must be booking their ticket to reach Mars at Rs 7 per km, cheaper than rickshaw rate in Gujarat at Rs 10 per km. What say? Cheaper than Tomato and Mc Donald burger. They better re-settle in Mars and leave behind their American dream. They can sell hot dogs on planet Mars cheaper and make a killing. If they are not satisfied, it's time to come back to Desh....Mera Bharat Mahaan..see India needs them as the savior. Why would they not come back? Arnab must be racking his brain. After all, India wants to know!

Our dear NRI shouting Inquilaab must be leaving Barack Obama in a state of confusion on the next revolution. Is it for him or the president-in-waiting Hillary Clinton? After all, NRI has an uphill task: send American tourists to India and freebies, no visa on arrival. Wait, I got a better option. What if...we do some barter! Let's all of us shift to US and let our American friends make India their home. That way, we can take upon ourselves to save their economy, the spend thrift that we are. Chalo Amreeka, Saathiyon! Make New York, Madison Square our home and start tearing each other's off in Obama's land. See, we can vote for Obama's part, US Congress, and keep them in Government for another five years. 

Image Credit: Google India

We shall sing, 'Pseudo-secularism.' No! We shall be boys and girls, better than our ABDC counterparts. Nopes, we will not settle in US to learn ABDC the wrong way..it's American Born Desi Confused. We shall drink our Coca Cola to heavenly bliss. We shall sing and dance, 'Jeeo Kurta Phar ke', tearing the shirt of journalists who question us on why we support Modi. We will be the new Modi Bhakts assaulting not just Rajdeep Sardesai but Americans journalists telling us to behave ourselves. After all, we are the torch bearers of 'silly' Hindutvaa and who has the balls to question us!

We, Indians, are good in doing jhol. No prize for guessing here! We shall earn in dollar, buy in rupee and make our currency the new dollar, selling our prized assets, our rupee to dollar babus to make a killing on the market. Better than that, our Indian rupee will replace the Dollar groom and bahus of the world. Modi-nomics has just altered market dynamics in US and high time for MNCs to pack their bags and settle in India. 

After all, who needs motivational Gurus like Shiv Khera, Robin Sharma when we have apna desi Prime Minister, Narendra Modi telling us one thing or two about, determination and how to make things work out for us? Perhaps, our own Congress man, Mani Shankar Aiyyar must book his air ticket to New York city and start a tea stall, 'Special Modi Chai.'

Age ole' VCR, Video cassettes we 90s kids treasured

An epoch or a lost era that cannot be emulated or recreated, unlike our movies showcased on the silver screen, but memories captured at the back of our minds. I take pride in being a 90s kid who grew up, whining my time, cuddling with the timeless love of VCR and Cassettes.

  Downloading songs, CDs, You Tube and films on mobile phone. You gotta be kidding! What's that? For sure, rocket science that was alien to my generation growing up in the dear old 90s. I remember Bombay Vikings, Woh Woh Chali dekho pyar ki Gaali playing on radio or the amazingly perfect songs of Ashiqui, Saajan, Khuda Gawah or Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahin. Our neighbor owned the luxurious but shining black VCR and they would borrow cassettes for 25 bucks at the video library, was called video club at that time.     The nice neighbors would call the 'poor child' me who couldn't afford the VCR as his nieces would watch a nice Amitabh Bachchan super duper hit Hum, yeah I remember and the shining stars Shah Rukh-Salman-Salman or Ajay Devgn standing tall on two bikes in Phool aur Kaante..kya entry hai boss! I remember watching Maine Pyar Kiya, Raaju Ban Gaya Gentleman, Love and Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahin. Our neighbor's house was converted into a home cinema, watched by five to six person as his old mother, we called Nani would prepare tea for us. Man! I was hooked! What a treasure trove they have, I was jealous and totally in awe.

   Sometimes, the desire to watch a movie and asked for permission was received in a nod and after all, who turns down or break the heart of a cute kid? You thought the hardest nut has been cracked. Time to plead with Dad to give me a special treat between 10 to 25 bucks to rent a VCR that everyone could watch together. Sometimes, getting the money and feeling rich may took months owing from Mom and Dad promise, do your homework and bring good notes in the school test. The trip to Nani's place where I stormed inside the TV room to check if there is a VCR and bang as I jumped in joy, almost stomping on someone's feet. See! I was a naughty child and pretended that I am not hungry or faking an angry mood to get someone to treat me with a video cassette of my choice. I remember being in love and drooling over my favorite hero's mass act in Shahenshah, Rishtey mein Hum Tumhare Baap lagte Hai, Naam Hai Shahenshah.

    Growing sullen during the whole day, refusing to eat anything or drink tea and crawling on the floor to being whacked and slapped for being such a naughty kid. It was worth the effort as I was sitting on the bed and watching Amitabh Bachchan performance in Shahenshah..baacha gaye bachpan bachpan Bachchan Bachchan Bachchan..should have come earlier to celebrate the Bachchan mania, the God of Cinema. My world would start and stop at the mention of the name, Amitabh Bachchan.

    The cassettes was yet another story which I grow a fetish for them, my life long friend who would entertain me as soon as I get home from school. The small shop selling cassettes between 35 to 50 bucks where the daily pocket money was not spent buying ice creams, chocolates or sweets but nicely slunk somewhere inside the room. I quenched my thirst with water at school, eagerly waiting for the bell to ring, dashing to the shop buying cassettes. I had such a huge collection of cassettes and someone bring a new addition was like cherry on the cake. The last time I bought few cassettes was way back in 2004, the time I had a walk man for company, a luxury item on the table.

   It's different ball game altogether when the money was spent buying glossy magazine to the likes of Filmfare, Stardust, Movie and Screen to read the latest juicy gossips are made of bout' favorite heroes and heroines, with complimentary, posters, some I have still conserved. It calls for another post. Move over free wallpapers on the net.

   Somebody please give me back my VCR and cassettes I spent a fortune to build the treasure trove made with so much love and flurry of passion. I wanna the decade back where holding a tiny cassette in the palm of the hand was no mean feat but sheer delight. It's like possessing gold biscuits.

   What's your VCR and cassettes story? I wanna hear from you if you are a 90s kid. Nothing beat the sheer excitement rushing down the spine.

Lovingly yours

Vishal

Kya Cool Hain Hum

Kya Cool Hai Hum! Kya Cool Hai Hum! Tushar and Riteish D gyrated to the song of the namesake to find the former a hot girl friend? What makes our generation cool and do we need to set a benchmark for cool quotient in today's massive consumption society and mall culture?
Does indulging in drugs, two-timing, 'friends with benefits' read a busy sex life with multiple partners, partying or what one term, 'call centre' culture makes us cool?
The cool dude, sporting the biceps, chaperoned by a babe on a swanky bike and driving his way on hot wheels and speeding at the Andheri highway. Would that be termed cool? The super rich girl driving a swanky BMW or Rolls Royce in the affluent Punjab much to the envy of girls and guys will surely grab eye balls. Well, what do I feel is cool? It's not about displaying wealth indecently or wearing expensive Dolce and Gabbana but rather as being comfortable in what one's wear or drive. I feel that cool is linked to happiness and the former is a state of mind and being. For instance, when I got myself my brand new HTC One X handset or I-Pad it was not to flash these assets and show how cool I am. One may say that hey, you got a laptop, why the need for the IPad? Baby! For the nature of work, I keep traveling and hoping from one place to another and I find it difficult to carry the laptop all the way. Last time, when I traveled to Delhi/Gurgaon for work purpose, it was quite a burden to be armed with the travel bag, luggage and lappie bag and I mulled over the IPad which I can easily slink in the bag. It's not about showing or raising the stock of my cool quotient. The same goes for my clothing and I am not going to deny that I love wearing my branded denims and attire. I am very comfy in my Levis Jeans, formal trousers that I pick at West Side or shoes at Woodlands. It's not trying to be desperately cool but being comfortable in what I wear. For me, it's Wear Your Attitude. Period!

Today, the buzz word, 'Cool' is an invention or a concept popularized by the glamorous or new media where young guns are encouraged to flaunt what they possess. It's not about that or putting your pictures with three hottest babes in a party on Facebook? Certainly, the young people who are swayed to this particular definition of what's cool are under spell and losing their individuality as human being. I am cool since I know that I will not lose my true-self or identity as a person and they day I start emulating others, I cannot call myself a cool dude. A cool dude or gal for me is one whose temper is not flayed at the very provocation and try to be someone else. Hey! Hold on! Angry young man tag hold good on Amitabh Bachchan on screen but not off screen. Why do you need to be someone you are not? Being confident, composed and speaking or acting in a dignified manner is cool. Doing your own stuffs and having the courage to go against the crowd without the fear of being judged for me defines coolness.
There is no such thing as 'cool' being an exclusive domain reserved only to a niche of people composed of film stars, pop stars, business tycoons or icons. Just be yourself. Just because somebody is indulging in free sex, partying like an animal, you don't need to do that just for the fucking sake of emulating them. That's not cool. Fine, if that's your life that's cool for you and you will be comfy in doing that. If it's not your stuff, then why do it? There is no such thing as morally good or bad, right or wrong but rather being comfy in your skin.

100 years of celebration, entertainment and joy of movie-making

100 years in a history of the silver screen is a long time to hark back upon! On May 3, the Hindi film industry celebrated a century of entertaining zillions of views and as we retrospect on the stars we love and the movies we cherish, there is no doubt that Hindi cinema has come a long way and today, there are new talents zooming their way ahead and film-makers are ready to experiment and explore with new talents and subjects. Certainly, the best time to be in the film-industry where 100-crores plus movies dominate but at the same time, small and meaningful cinema exist side by side.
The 1950s and 1960s saw a host of memorable actors to the likes of Raj Kapoor, Sunil Dutt, Dev Anand, Shammi Kapoor, Dilip Kumar and so many who shine through the film industry and I feel that this era has produced many classics such as Mother India, Shree 420, My Name is Joker, Sahib Biwi aur Ghulam, Madhumati, Guide, Kashmir Ki Kali, Bimal Roy's Do Bigha Zameen and of course, the cinema of Guru Dutta where he churned out master pieces like Pyaasa. At that time, movies were made in Black and White and many believed that the 50s and 60s was the best time in the history of Hindi cinema where movies were subject centric. The best and memorable songs were composed during that time. We were also exposed to movies like Pakeezah that saw the birth of a performer like Meena Kumari and Manoj Kumar's patriotic movies.
Dilip Kumar was the tragedy king and it is nearly impossible to forget memorable roles in movies like Devdas, Madhumati, Leader, Shakti and Vidhaata, among others. He is an institution of acting that is considered unparaled and gave tragedy a new definition. Certainly, one of the greatest actors of all time who is still a model to the young generation.
The late 60s and 70s saw the birth of the first superstar in the history of cinema, Rajesh Khanna and the epithet was coined for him. Rajesh Khanna was a phenomena and it was said that young girls married to his picture and slept with his image under their pillow. As we celebrate 100 years of cinema, it makes sense to pay a tribute to Rajesh Khanna who passed away last year. It was the death of a man who spread havoc among the crowd and Kaka, as he was known, contributed immensely to sensitive cinema such as Anand, Safar, Namak Haram, Aradhna and Amar Prem, just to name a few. Rajesh Khanna was a phenomena that got bigger and bigger. He made romance soft and love endearing. This is a phase in the history of Hindi cinema that cannot be obliterated.
Come the 70s, the angry young man, Amitabh Bachchan was born in Zanjeer and after facing rejection where 15 of his movies flops, a new star was born. The success of Zanjeer at the box office gave Amitabh Bachchan, the name 'angry young man' who went to rule the silver roost for more than 30 years and beyond. Bachchan was the star, the companion and the actor may dreamed to be and he was a dream to so many of us. He gave us memorable movies like Sholay that is considered to be the biggest success in the history of cinema, Deewar, superhit entertainments like Amar Akbar Anthony, Naseeb, Don, Muqquadar Ka Sikandar, Shahenshah, Agneepath and Hum, among others. Bachchan turned the way in which we looked at TV with the game show, Kaun Banega Crorepathi that sent waves of ripples across the country. Today, we no longer look at TV with contempt and it won't be unfair to say that actors like Shah Rukh Khan, Govinda, Salman Khan and Madhuri Dixit took to TV but nobody came an inch to the Bachchan persona and charisma. Bachchan is the only actor to star in four superhits movies in a year in the 1970s and it is a feat that he managed to repeat in 2005 with movies like Black, Sarkar, Waqt, Bunty aur Babli. He is also the only factor whose career graphs has much more hits and flops and trade pundits, says that even today his movies that doesn't to well at the box office manage to get an initial opening that ensures that distributors doesn't lose their money. 
In the 1990s, Bachchan took a five-year break from the film industry and it was the time when new heroes such as Shahrukh, Amir and Salman saw successed in romantic movies. The 1990s were the era where action movies took a back seat and romance was the flavor of the season. Actors like Ajay Devgan, Sanjay Dutt, Anil Kapoor and Sunny Deol also thrives during the era where India opened its economy to the world and India became rich through globalization. The face of cinema changed.
But, legends are legends. Bachchan came back and met with failure which was a reminder that he cannot remain a cliche of his own image and re-invented himself with movies like AKS, Sarkar, Ek Rishta, Ankhen and Kaante and of course, Kaun Banega Crorepati. This paid off big time as he not only paid back debts from the failure of his corporate company, Amitabh Bachchan Corporation Limited but ruled the roost again. There was only one Amitabh Bachchan who even today donning the father's role to young stars is seeing young producers and directors making a beeline at his doorsteps and where roles are being written for him. One has the impression that his young co-stars are being rendered insignificant and despite being the hero of the film, the latter is seen as secondary to Bachchan. That is the power he wields among the audience. This is why I feel that the history of cinema cannot be written, re-written or scripted without Amitabh Bachchan. I often wonder what will happen if Bachchan didn't take the five-years long break and perhaps the Khans, had to wait for another ten years to make it big.
The year 2000s saw a host of new talents such as Hrithik Roshan, Abhishek Bachchan, Irfan Khan, Katrina Kaif, Priyanka Chopra, Ranbir Kapoor, Imran Khan, Kariena, Sonam and Deepika Padukone as well as actors like Ranvir Shorey, Rahul Bose, Ayushmann Khuranna, Parineeti Chopra, Rajat Kapur, Konkona Sen-Sharma who made a fortune in the small budget movies.
The future of Hindi cinema is brilliant where new subjects are being explored and there is whole lot of possibilities with new age directors such as Abhinav Kashyap, Zoya Akhtar, Sujoy Gosh and many more. It is the best time for the film industry as one doesn't need to crores to make a movie but a good subject is needed and a small budget will do. Good cinema shall always prevail. The perfect example of a good film for me is Bheja Fry that was shot in one apartment on a medium budget. Similar, subjects exploring relationships will always have a medium, so will rom-com and out and out commercial movies.
On the occasion of 100 years of Hindi cinema, one do not have the right not to mention Dadasaheb Phalke, the pioneer of the Hindi film industry, who made a dream come true. One should always chase their dreams.
Long Live the Silver Screen.

Amitabh & Me

The light of eternity.
Your name, Amitabh carries the meaning 'light'.
It sparkled our lives.
May the light never cease shining on you, Amitji and your wonderful family.
You have been an inspiration to millions across the globe.
You have been an inspiration to me, my biggest inspiration.

Amitabh & Me.
Like the greek God, you stand tall true to your name and magnetic personality.
Your rich baritone voice echoes good voice within my heart.
The moment you utter a single word, it send waves across.
The kind of positive vibes you spread is testimony to your being and our being.
I have hero worshiped you.
There is no one like and will never be.
A supercool dad, Hindi cinema greatest superstar, doting grandfather to our lil' and cute daughter Araadhya and greatest actor in the world.
Yet so humble and down-to-earth.
You are always so self-depreciating about your achievements.
Our generation must take a leaf and bow to you.
The kind of frenzy you set when you walk into a room. 
In one word, it's complex to describe you.
Your larger than life persona send tizzy across.
The influence that you have on my life is such that at the mention of your name I go berserk.
You are the undisputed king beyond the game numbers.
The dignity with which you handle your professional and personal life is something to die for.
What I would not give to be in the same frame as you.
The biggest dream in my life is to meet you, sir.
As they say, age is just a number.
Life begins at 70.
Happyyy Birthday to shri. Amitabh Bachchan, the phenomenon of this century.
With love
Vishal
 

Ra. One review: Entertainment at its best

Kareena sizzles in Chamak Challo and showed her oomph factor

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SRK as G one

 Rating: Four stars

Ra.One released on Diwali amidst immense hype. The movie, however, has lived up to the expectations and is a sure shot winner. It is the perfect Diwali gift as it has all the necessary ingredients in terms of script, performances, special effects and spectacular action.

We’ve had Koi Mil Gaya, Krish and now Ra.One has taken the ‘superhero’ to a higher level. Ra.One is the story of Shekhar (Shah Rukh Khan) who designs a new video game (Ra.One) to make his son (Armaan Verma) happy. However, Ra.One decides to get out of game mode and start to control the lives of the main protagonists.

This is when the good robot (G.One) comes into play. Ra.One is also the story of triumph of good over evil where good always wins.

In terms of performances, Shah Rukh Khan as Shekhar and G.One has acted after a long time. It feels good to see him play a character and not himself like he has in several movies. Whether as an endearing father, lovable husband or G.One, he should be given credit for giving a performance that will be remembered for a long time. It’s one of his better films, if not the best.

Kareena Kapoor, despite not having an author backed role delivers on every count and shows that she is one of the best actors among the current crop. She sizzles in Chhamak Challo, which is already a rage among music lovers. Child artiste Armaan is lovable as kid who is fascinated by villains. Many children will find themselves in him.

Ra.One works at every level. The spectacular action scenes, the fights between Ra.One and G.One, special and visual sequences, particularly the chase scenes on Mumbai local trains are a sheer delight.

The entry of Rajnikanth as Chitti (his character in Robot) is one of the highlights of the film and he shows that even in one scene he can be the show stealer. The voice over by megastar Amitabh Bachchan in one scene gives Ra.One a royal touch. The music by Vishal-Shekhar is soulful and Akon’s rendering of Chhamak Challo is addictive.

However, the film lacks the emotional quotient, particularly in the relationship between G.One and Kareena. The sequence of cars flying like pans and falling almost everywhere is simply ridiculous. It should have been chopped at the editing table. Most importantly, the experience would have been magical and perfect if it was shown in 3D. The theatres will hopefully take this factor into consideration next time.

Despite all this, Anubhav Sinha must be credited for extracting the best from Shah Rukh Khan, Kareena Kapoor and Arjun Rampal. The film that spells magic and visual experience should appeal to everyone. Ra.One should not be missed for its special effects that are in line with international standards. India has got its superhero.

NB:

I am not a fan of SRK because I think this guy plays himself and rarely acts. However, this time he didn't over acted and gave a decent performance. I viewed the film in its entirety and whatever review I gave is based on the film merit. Please let's not compare it to the stuffs made in the west. It's the victory of the creative minds behind the film and let's acknowledge that.

Review of BHTP: The Bachchan magic stays forever

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Hey folks, I watched Buddha Hogaa Tere Baap and my first reaction was, Amitabh Bachchan is not called the one man industry, the Baap of Acting and Entertainment for nothing. Make no mistake, the sole purpose of Puri Jagganadh film is entertainment all the way and a moving tribute to Bachchan's persona, charisma and acting abilities. Bachchan is the best and no one comes close to him.
Buddha Hoga..is about Amitabh Bachchan, Amitabh Bachchan and Amitabh Bachchan. It is a tribute to his movies of 70s and 80s when he emerged on the silver screen, it was an experience to die for. I salute his indomitable spirit, passion and zeal for his craft and not only you feel he is Bbuddha in the film. He gives the young actors a run for their money and they don't comes an inch to him as far as acting, style and entertainment is concerned.
With BHTB, the fast lanes of 70s, 80s and 90s is revisited by the man who gave hits after hits at the box office. He roared like a tiger, bash the villains, romances his lady loves and shines in his emotional scenes with Hema Malini. Bachchan communicates with his eyes and he doesn't need to utter a single word in the movie. The Bachchan mania continues. Hema Malini is too beautiful an perfect while Sonu Sood, Sonal Chauhan, Prakash Raj and Makrand Deshpande does a good job. Raveena Tandon is okay.

Music directors Vishal-Shekhar gave a soul foul music and pays tribute to Bachchan in his medley of songs. The best part is the direction of Puri Jagannadh who keeps the audience glued to their seats as the Bachchan mania is revisited. A fitting tribute to Big B as his magic emerges stronger. BHTP is a film which will remain with u for ever. To be watched over and over.

BBudah Hoga Tera Baap all over the place

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Bachchan fans..the wait is finally over..Bbudah Hoga Tera Baap released today all over..Brace yourselves and get set to book your tickets at cinema theatre next to you. I have grown up on Amitabh Bachchan films and frankly, I can wait to watch my childhood hero, Amitabh Bachchan, I'm already getting jitters.
I always wanted to see Amitabh Bachchan in the successful part he played in the 70s and 80s, be it Sholay, Zanjeer, Deewar or Agneepath. Finally, the wait is over as Bachchan set the stage ablaze with a performance which I believe will be remembered for a very long time. A treat to all his fans the world over. Bachchan comes to rock your city. AB is a legend, an institution of acting and words fail to describe the persona, the legend. 
What is admirable is the way he performed all the stunts at the age of 69. A Star who can wreck havoc, brought the nation to a stall. Once Vikram Bhatt said, AB is a national treasure. This time director Puri Jagganadh pays homage to a one man industry,a man who took the nation by storm and who continues to do through his sheer power of acting, dedication to his work and humility. He is Amitabh Bachchan, after all? Is there anything that should shock us about him? He's got the power and everything his touches turns into gold. Amitabh Bachchan, the man with the midas touch. An Amitabh Bachchan movie is an education and I think Bbudah perfectly gives tribute to his career which spans over more than 3 decades and brings the angry young man image to the forefront.
As a child, I remember how Dad would take me to watch Bachchan bashing the villains as I watched with awe and inspiration. In our family, watching Bachchan on screen was no less than an outing. I look forward to Bbudah Hogah Tera Baap and I'm sure that it will rock and shook the nation. It's gonna be a super duper hit.
Amitabh Bachchan rocks