A for Amour-a parisian love story

This post is being written as part of the 'Blogging from A to Z April Challenge' and it's my second outing. Here, we go for letter 'A for Amour' where my theme is 'Romance (Short) stories. I hope you will enjoy my first entry on the first day of April.


It was during the holiday when I roamed freely the streets of Paris, longing for romance. I stood at Pont au Double, admiring lovers kissing freely and holding hands. I lit a cigarette when she approached me, asking for light. She pulled her hair with her hands and smiled.

She asked, 'Vous parlez francais?' (You speak French)

'Un peu,' (A little), I say.

We got talking and met over coffee, letting ourselves free on the Parisian streets and Champ Elysee. Ines, that's her name. She invited me to her apartment, we made love to each other, kissing passionately. We had everything going for us and the world didn't matter to us. Love couldn't be more perfect than this. Ines knew English for she studied and lived in United States for five years.

Once she asked, "You know, may be we won't be each other forever. What would you do?

"I don't know. I prefer not think about it."

I was happy living in the moment for my 'amour' (love in French). Elisa calls me 'amour.' I was losing control over the self, drawing myself to her despite knowing that we were momentarily enjoying each other's company. Once, I asked her why she is dancing with that guy in the pub.

She turned around, "Amour! I think we have a pact that we would enjoy every moment with each other and we both know that it's not forever."

"Still! I protested."

"Amour! I love you. You are the guy who makes me feel special. But, why take load?

I walk away from her, kicking my shoes in frustration/

Ines didn't return my call for days. Perhaps, it was time to call it quits. I was three weeks away from leaving France. Her weird behavior was killing me deep inside. I dropped at her apartment where I spent days and night to see the door bolted from inside. I got the hint. Perhaps, Ines found another lover. I left a letter from her, 'Amour! We spent wonderful moments together and shall always cherish the moments of love, kissing and wonderful memories you gave me.  I wish you luck and I am sure you found someone better. I left the letter and a red rose in her letter box.

I traveled to France in train enjoying the scenery, from Lyon to Bordeaux. Somehow, I extended my stay for three months since something was amiss in life. I felt incomplete without her.

I visited the cafe we first met and kissed, ordered a coffee in the Parisian winter, smoking like chimney. I again became a regular at the cafe, engrossed in the memory of Ines, the times we spent together and hoping she will come again.

One day, an elderly man patted me on the back. I turned around and he asked, 'Looking for someone?'

Uhmmm! Yes! May be! Actually No!, I stammered.

Ines?' he asked.

I was bewildered and asked, 'How do you know?' 

The gentleman eyed me and said, 'Ines left this parcel for you. She loved you a lot and hope you will forgive her. Please don't throw away the memories. She died to cancer two weeks ago. She didn't want you to suffer and asked you to find love. Gosh! I am missing my daughter.'

The old man, wiped a tear, patted my back and walked away. I was speechless. I packed my bag on the same day and took my flight, thinking about the priceless moments with amour.

Eternal tale of love

Cuddling next to her flawless face,

I caress her skin.

Where love is the most flamboyant expression and abused,

We look deep into each other's eyes and kiss.

It's the passion of love and a feeling that only two hearts who truly loved could understand.

Resting my head on her shoulder,

I am transported to heavenly bliss,

dreaming of a life of togetherness and eternity.

I turn around to see her shadow eluding faraway from me.

Where are you going? I implore.

I was never present physically,

still I shall never cease loving you,

she tells.

A to Z challenge Theme Reveal: Short (Romantic) Stories

I am participating in the #AtoZ Blog Challenge. To cut a long story short, I was more than sure than this time I would not be able to make it. The hectic work pace was killing me and to register was almost suicidal, what if I am not able to make the cut? 

In fact, I was planning to schedule my posts by mid-February but things started to fall apart. There was no way I could do it and got chatting with Shalinee on how to do it. One thing led to the other: She prodded me to get on it. I was in still in two minds when I hopped on Vidya's blog telling her how to do it, owing to the fact that the hectic work pace won't allow it. I was in two minds and asked her to motivate and help me. Vidya's words worked like magic on me and deciding to hop on the train.

Vidya's words:

Work will always be hectic....If you are worried about what to write about-you have a thriving blog-just go through your oldest posts-you'll find you have more to say about those topics....There will be days when you think you don't have time..truth is, we can always find 10 minutes...you can do it!

The fabulous Vidya is a magician and couldn't believe how her motivating and inspiring words is leading me to sign up for the challenge. Till you have people like Vidya and Shalinee (https://taleoftwotomatoes.wordpress.com) prodded me to sign up.

#AtoZ theme: Short (Romance) stories

Quoting from http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/, the credit goes to Arlee Bird where participants post every day except Sunday which is fun day. 26 days of blogging, posting daily on a single alphabet. The fun starts on April 1 with letter A, April 2 with letter B and it goes on Day 26 with letter Z.

For more on the challenge, click on

 http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/p/a-to-z-challenge-sign-uplist-2015.html#sthash.wC8snPuJ.dpuf

Theme Reveal:Short (Romantic) stories

This time, I have decided to write short (romance stories). I have decided to write 26 stories between 500 to 1000 words. While most stories would be my favorite hot topic love and romance, some of them will be short stories, moving away from love. You see, too much of nerve racking and getting in that mode of dabbling with alphabets, can be a tough call. Here, I am. Can't believe I am signing for it. Do sign up and for more jump on Vidya's blog:

http://vidyasury.com/2015/03/a-to-z-challenge-theme-reveal-2015.html

Wish us luck and hope I do justice to the challenge.

With Love

Vishal

The tragedy of a dog's life

 Oho! They won't let me sleep peacefully on the street. After all, I am a street dog. Some idiot making noise clearing all the debris with the broom, ringing on my ear. Now, who is that person scratching my back like that? I gonna slap him. Ahem! Ahem! I can't even do that!

The tiny lady, wearing a long white robe is chasing me away. How ruthless and heartless those humans are! After all, I am only a dog, an 'underdog' living off the streets. Go away bloody scoundrel, she shouts. I try to scare her, showing my scary teeth and barking ferociously coz no one wanna pay heed to the cry of my heart. I know! I know! I wanna tell them to give me shelter and food, in return I will protect your house. But, no. How ungrateful those humans are! I run away from the lady who turns her back towards me, walking towards her kitchen. What's this perfume? I just wanna burst into the kitchen and steal the delicacy. Those humans call it Biryani.

Now, why this other dog is running like a mad cap, as if he is participating in the Olympic race. Now, let me run after him. No! He is too fast, this smartie pant. I run past this huge metallic gate and let me stop to say hi to those canines. They live like a King, you know, and there owners called them babies. See! What they are doing? Playing with a ball and hiding bones inside the grass so that the master don't see it. Those rich dogs, I tell you, they have too much of everything and I am looking for a bone to eat. Still, they have become selfish like their masters, they won't share the bone with an under-dog like me, dying with hunger in this misty morning. 

Last time, I stood in front of the gate, the canines barked at me, shooing me away. I just wanna be friends with them. This crazy book writer! I know she is what humans call hot and sexy but reading a poem to her dog who was scratching the mud and wagging the tail. How on earth do I tell her how idiotic she is and can't make out the language of the dog who is not even interested in her passionate poems which she recites loudly.

Now, I need something to eat and let me hop on the street to try my luck, may be if I can hound this guy who sells Vada Pav and Pakoda on the street may pity me and flung some that I can grab with my mouth.Now, why this dog is doing trying to cross the street in this crazy human made turmoil that blows my ears to death. It frightens me to death in this world made by people hell-bent to destroy our lives where our breed have no comfort and peace. 

The nameless friend makes a step or two, before moving away, too scared to valiantly face  the cars and buses who has just one objective: bleed to death anyone who comes near them. Do you think they will spare us, I wanna tell the stranger dog. Finally, she backs out and comes near me to drop a Hi. Now, you disturbing me, I wanna tell. But, you see, I am nice. I laze on the pavement and pat him. Two for company. Together, we have one mission: Jump in the garbage, pulling everything upside down and scatter on the street, for one morsel. No luck, we are chased by the cops.

We've got a victim. We eye in each other in unison to conjure our tricks. The truck is filled with goodies, loafs, bananas and vada pav. We scare the two guys, grab our share with our mouth and disappear in the alley. Finally, our hard has paid off big time as the men wearing white garments yell.

Have a good Day. Now, you see why the underdogs win the smart race.

Love

Vishal

Gliding past storms to seek dreams, happiness in the illusory

Dreams weaved in the cornucopia of thoughts and illusion,

stoking fodder in our tiny hearts,

for no hope or desire is too mundane to fulfill.

The heart knows no reason to build imaginary castle,

filling our world with momentary moment of joy.

Expectations soothes the heart as we crave for the imaginary pleasure.

The disappointment lingers large yet it encapsulates us with hope.

It titillates the sense as we move beyond reality.

Soaring up in the sky as we chase the world of impossibilities,

the stars may be too far for us to touch,

yet the heart, mind and soul finds solace.

Turning our back to reality and twisting our mind,

stoic to the storm that unfurls in front of us,

we glide past the vagaries of life, re-visited in all its form and hues.

The rainbow may not be too far fetched as a symbol of happiness.

Mind matters above everything else.

Love

Vishal

Nirbhayas re-visited: The Udwin Leslee video, selective portrayal and our mindset

There is no difference in character and thought between on one hand, lawyers, ML Sharma and AP Singh and on the other hand, rape convict Mukesh Singh. It gives me goosebumps when I read the comment of the criminal who said that Nirbhaya deserves to be raped. There is raging debate whether the video aired by BBC should be banned or not.

First of all, I am against any form of ban and, after all, it's a question of freedom. Let people decide whether they want to watch it or not to formulate their opinions. I have an issue with the video for some reasons. It lies in the fact that I am dead against the idea of glamorizing a crime like rape and making the rapist heroic. Certainly, asserting your superiority or giving vent to male aggression doesn't make you a man and unfortunately many have this filthy attitude. I am not prepared to watch the movie because of the gory details, confessed by that mentally deranged person who showed no remorse at all. I mean, who does such kind of things? Only someone without a heart and calling him ruthless is an understatement. He is just a demon that deserved to be flogged and humiliated in public.

However, what irks me in this whole episode is the way we reacted to the video. Ok, like me, you may disagree with the film made by Udwin Leslee but there are certain things we cannot ignore. In fact, the film, now that it's already been made, is an opportunity for all of us to reflect on the mindset of people across the globe. For sure, this mentality is not restricted to India and reference is made to UK where 24,000 rapes were reported in a year where conviction rate has gone down. You can check the article by Suzanne Virdie in Times of India blog.

Let's face it: Several of our MPs has made unfortunate comments about a girl dressing scantily, roaming freely at nights and that they ask for rape. Should the video shock us? Doesn't it say a lot about our attitudes, bred since an early age, on what we think of women and we are scared of equality between both men and women? 

Like Javed Akhtar has rightly pointed out, the perspective by the rapists and his lawyers is a mirror image of the sick society in which we live. It's not a question of men against women. It starts with educating our boys to respect women and mind you, it cuts across social class and religion. In that sense, I am comfortable with re-visiting the Nirbhaya case but certainly not in the fashion advocated by the video,

One is tempted to ask whether it is psycho-analytical, physical or emotional aspect of rapists across the globe. What makes men commit rape? Is it the patriarchal attitude by controlling women in society that she should always listen to the husband, don't venture out at nights or come late, that leads to rape? The video has nicely ignored freedom of women and the act of rape that mutilate not only her body but soul. There are thousands Nirbhayas in both urban and rural India that are the victims because they are not 'good girls' and having sex outside marriage or for that matter, showing their desires as human beings.

The video is tale of selective portrayal when it comes to rape. Now, will someone explain to me why a toddler or five-year old is raped or a daughter in the household? Certainly, she must be at fault according to the logic of people like ML Sharma and AP Singh. This is an issue that Leslee selectively failed to explore. Or, Madonna who was raped when she first came to explore the world of showbiz.

The fact is that our legal system is flawed or else, how come a rapist is unafraid of the consequences of justice. We shy away from prosecuting the rapists and case in point, is the so-called adolescent. The fact is that many of us are a by-product of the system, a disease by 'punishing' a woman for her outrageous views or life style. Let's change our thoughts since there are many who have similar echo to the rapist. 

Both Kiron Kher and Jaya Bachchan are right in their own ways when they point at hypocrisy in our society. It's a question of deep-rooted patriarchal mindset that remains enshrined in our society that leads to such cowardice aggression. Who are we to decide what a woman wear, jeans, Burqa, Saree and what is the relationship between rape and garments? Even a man wears short, showing his leg! It's high time we change our attitudes by educating not just children, in particular young boys in school but their parents. It's a tragedy that we stifle sexual freedom calling it dirty or make red light areas illegal. Prostitution is not the problem, our thoughts and sexual oppression are! We think of ourselves as the biggest moral authority when we question the life of a woman, she stays up till late, party hard and comes home after midnight despite being married. I mean, who gave me this right to decide on the life and body of a woman?

Now, I come to another important aspect of the debate. Unfortunately, with the backlash, I think twice before genuine complimenting a graceful woman oozing hotness or sexy for that matter. There is an inherent fear of being labelled as such. Yes, the backlash is killing the joy of healthy flirting and  add salt to injury. The ludicrous take of Rose Chasm and her India phobia depicting the country as a land of rapist where every single man who wanted to 'rape' her, be it on the street market or people filming her and friends gyrating to music. (http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-1023053)

Come on! In every country, there are rapists Miss Rose Chasm and you make it as if all men are rapists and it can only happen in one part of the globe. While I am angry so many girls are mentally harassed through stares and are subject to even more than that which I may not be able to understand, but the whole point reaches insanity on your part. I know many wonderful men who respect women a lot but the way things are being painted about India is simply lingering on the height of insanity. However, I do understand the problems faced by women in public places which gets worst by the day. It's up to us to do something and make things better. Why do we need a foreigner to come and tell us things. Let's be the change. alter our mindsets even if it means in a radical manner.

I think I've made my case on the video, trying to cover as many points as possible from ugly patriarchy, to issues with Leslee work and over the top Chasm's neuroticism and our attitude towards women in this lengthy post.

PS: Check this post: http://www.youthkiawaaz.com/2015/03/indias-daughter-bbc-documentary/

Cheerz
Vishal

Soothing baby sleep, bringing joy to life

Soothing baby sleep,

cuddled in the stranger lap.

She thought it's heaven, her tiny head flows to the love and soothing embrace.

Smiling to the power of love,

tiny legs and fingers admired by one and all.

The innocent little gift wrapped in a bundle called joy,

enjoys the attention showered.

She would not realize how much love she earned and gave to the guests she charmed.

Beauty personified, she exudes magnetic spell over everyone.

She brought joy to life.

Ban Bandh Na Raha

We are a nation that has re-discovered itself and giving a new definition to Alice in Wonderland cum the Great Discovery of Amreeka like Christopher Columbus. The new age Columbus has found a precious stone, a gem, called BAN which they are taking seriously. The stone is polished and turned into law. First, there was bandh and now there is ban.

Our learned men and women, in their wisdom will soon decide to hit the cudgel minus the stone to ban everything in life. After all, it's becoming a national past time to protect the Great Indian Culture since we are so sanskari. They will ban the word Fuck because no should enjoy a goddamn fuck. Ban the fuck itself and stop enjoying orgasm, pleasure and procreating. Ban life itself. Let's polish this precious gem to go back to stone age. Life was much simpler, isn't it?!

Did I say eating beef gives me sensual and orgasmic pleasure? After all, I am banned for eating beef?! Why just beef? Pork, buffalo, cattle. Let's ban meat products. Yet, we won't ban assaults on innocent people, minorities, illegal conversions, ransacking newsrooms and cabbies. Ban your words when you insult Mother Theresa and the rubbish spawned on us.

Movies, books, stand up comedy, people!! Ahem Ahem, the list is tiring to our minds and thoughts. Ban the film on Nirbhaya, did I hear it correctly? I do have issues with the film being made on account of glamorizing a rapist or making him heroic for that matter, one question that plague me like my laptop virus going on a destruction spree is that whether I am considered adult enough to choose what is right or wrong for me to watch. Welcome to the new age Talibanism the Hindutva way?! Dumb fucks, let people decide and formulate their opinions on the film.

Samaaj ke thekedar or the monopoly of thoughts are the ones deciding to jerk off to someone or something. After all, what right have we to decide? See. we are vegetative beings who lack the mental and moral faculty to decide what to do with our lives. Of course, film, food, books should be banned. It's against Hindu or Indian culture. It will wreck havoc on our lives. Choosing to eat beef at our risk and we get 10 years in jail. Ban jail!! No,never Ever. Ban religion. Who am I kidding? I should be sent to asylum for losing my mental faculty. 

I shall take Sanyasi and take a dip at the Ghat at Varanasi, meditating on the bans I am subjected to. The word 'Ban' will be enshrined in beads to count every single element on what went wrong in my life. O! Mother Ganga! I shall sit and admire the soulful and gentle flow of water to knock some sense in my mind, atone for my sins of eating beef and violating the sanctity of religion. See, beef is immoral and the animals should revere,pleading for forgiveness for coming into this world to pollute our great culture.

Long Live the ban. Jai Hind! Jai Maharashtra! Ban Bandh Na Raha! Beef Beef Na Raha! Freedom of expression and artistic expression Na Raha! Hail the custodians and guardians of morality. Stop making films and having sex for its banned. Don't you know! It's breaking news.

Ban Bandh! I say!

Vishal

Women Day: She shall not remain a mute spectator to your violence

Today, March 8 is International Women Day across the globe. I wish all women folks a very happy women Day. However, what matters is that we celebrate and respect a woman every day in life, not just on one day. Over the years, women have lead in all walks of life, political, corporates or as a human being.
What hurts is how women are assaulted every single day, victims of heinous crimes such as rape and looked down, provoked by a mindset of cultural and religious dogma. In several places in India, big cities and far-flung villages,the freedom of women are crushed as a result of male ego and ugly patriarchy that uses culture or religion as a shield. The atrocious rape of Nirbhaya still remains entrenched in our minds and despite the laws,one can say that there has been no closure. The problem is the attitude of men in society.
After Nirbhaya death, I wrote a poem on my other blog on wordpress and re-blogging it here. There was angst in the heart and two years later, I doubt whether things has changed. This poem is a tribute to thousands Nirbhaya in India and across the globe.

The birth of a girl child brings joy in the family.
A girl brings wealth and happiness in the surrounding.
As she grows up, she is stereotyped to behave in certain way to fit into society's definition of model woman.
She is chided by her elders if she chooses to wear a short skirt, 'Good girls don't attract attention.'
She is not allowed to venture late in the night for fear that vultures in the garb of humans will attack her
If she smokes or dates guys or party,she is labelled as a slut.
Yet, you bow to her in the temples, worshiping her human form.
You shower respect to her symbol yet you want to overpower her
You use sex as a tool of power, yet you forget that it is a powerful emotion and bond among equal.
You are persuaded that deep inside you cannot overpower her.
You use the cowardice tool, rape to show your weakness.
Is this what dominance means to you?
You call her weak.
How easy to forget that you are the emasculated one, an easy prey to the so called moral guardians and hypocrites who exploit a woman in the name of society, morality and religion?
You assault her, sexually harass her and confine her to the home.
You live in constant denial.
She is your mother, wife, sister or daughter.
Yet, you choose to exploit her.
Your mother is ashamed of your dastard act.
Train yourself not to rape rather than put the fear in her every moment in life that she will be assaulted.
You think she is weak?
You are weak and lack power over your mind.
How easy it is for the so called moral guardians and hypocrites able to control your thoughts and actions!
Was it her fault when she stepped out at night?
Was it her fault that she slapped you when you assaulted her?
You wanted to silence her voice?
For how long?
She will no longer be the weaker sex.
Remember the more you oppress and silence her, she will rise and kill you.
The time has come now and she will no longer remain a mute spectator to your violent way and herd mentality.
How many Priyadarshinis, Nirbhayas and Amanats you will rape and oppress?
Thousands Nirbhayas will take birth.
This is a wake up call for you to respect her as an individual.

Happy Women Day.
Let's rise and awaken as human beings.

Vishal

Colorful rainbow and rain firm tapestry of thoughts

Rainbow arc curling in the sky weaving a tapestry of colorful shades.

Heaven bliss gaining expression,

As the cloud forms myriad thoughts like smoke screen in the blurred lines of poetry.

Rainy weather altered the atmosphere as 

one gazes at the sky and white clouds to find solace and soothe the heart.

The child prams on its tiny legs,

kissing the cup of the tiny face with wet palms.

A stroke of divinity as the writer gazes at the sky and rain lashing in the atmosphere,

seeking inspiration to create characters that stay forever in imagination.

Nature, in its fury, carry elements of bliss,

only a pure heart can feel and feed into thoughts.

With Love

Vishal

Happy Holi: My Favorite Holi songs

Happy Holi Folks,

It's the season where a dash of color adds character and spark to our lives. Holy remained one of my favorite festival where I forget about about by-gones or social conditioning to sink into the color happiness. It reminds me of the rain party during college days, high on Bhang and sprinkling colors on the streets where a bunch of us would be unrecognizable. Wishing you all, Happy Holi and have fun.

Leaving you folks with some of my favorite Holi Songs.

1. Rang Barse Chunarwali (Silsila)

Rang Barse Bheege Chunarwali is the ultimate Holi song by Amitabh Bachchan. 25 years after the release of Silsila, nothing on earth can beat this powerful song, the flirting banter in that and of course, Big B in his deep baritone who packs an amazing rendering that is still fresh.

2. Do Me a Favor, Let's Play Holi (Waqt-A Race Against Time)

This hatke song from Waqt is another of my favorite for its beat and, of course, Akki and Piggi's amazing chemistry. Of course, I absolutely love Anu Malik style and the sensual voice of Sunidhi Chauhan that makes the invitation for some harmless fun on Holi worth it. The song oozes sensuality.

3. Balam Pichkari (Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani)

This one is jazzi. Deepika sizzles in her Balam Pichkari avatar and has one of the most amazing chemistry with Ranbir. I love how Balam Pichkari redefines Holi song among the young generation who let themselves loose. Both Deepika and Ranbir are effortless, being themselves and comfortable in their skins. A superb anthem to Holi.

4. Holi Khela Raghuveera (Baghbaan)

Again, who can beat Amitabh Bachchan in this harmless flirting and powerful Awadhi song. He does full justice to this endearing Holi song with a touch of undiluted fun. Ek Dum Jhakas. Amitabh take this Holi song to another level and I dare you to prove the contrary.

5. Holi ke Din Dil Khil Jaate Hai (Sholay)

The biggest entertainment ever made on celluloid, Sholay, brings stroke of fun and flirting in this feel good holi song, combining romance and friendship. It is fun and sensitive at the same time making it one of the best remembered Holi song.

6. Ang se Ang Lagana (Daar)

This Shah Rukh Khan-Sunny Deol-Juhi Chawla has a simple quotient, celebrating Holi with pomp to the great delight of each and everyone of us. I loove how simple this song has been weaved to celebrate the colors of the festival.

7. Aaj Na Chodenge (Kati Patang)

Kaka does full justice in this amazing Holi song, beautifully rendered by Kishore Kumar to celebrate the different colors of Holi. Both Rajesh Khanna and Kishore Kumar lend their own signature style to this unique Holi classic. A must watch and Holi cannot be celebrated without this song coupled with a sensitive touch.

Blessing from the sky

Drizzle of rain sprinkling the city,

as black umbrellas occupies space.

Standing in the busy streets to get a peek of the first shower seems like blessing from the sky.

It's heavenly bliss.

Breaking the surface of heat,

the God of rain is providing respite.

Prayers are answered,

as cool atmosphere seeps in.

Who says the force of nature is ruthless and kind?

It feels like blessing has come earlier this season.

Momentary joy as city dwellers indulge in moments of happiness.

With Love

Vishal

Letter to my Love

Dear Love,

As I write this letter to you, it makes me wonder whether it's the best thing to pour my feeling to you. Ah! I can sense what going in your head. Confused!!! Why you are reading this letter? There are certain things that I cannot pour out or open my heart to tell in person. The letter helps me to be true to the self and tell how much I love you. True, things are far from rosy between us. We are going through a rough phase and I guess this happens with many relationships.

I want to save our relationship and, trust me, my optimist heart tells that we will reach our destination in this beautiful journey of love. There are so many things that I wanted to tell you, how I felt when you ignored my calls, sms-es and when you were chatting to your pals or the handsome guy as if I don't exist at all. I felt bad and your silence is killing me. It makes me hyper and awake throughout the night. After all, why I am doing that? Is it worth it?

 I believe in our relationship. Till, you don't say anything that bugging you, I won't be able to to take on the world. I need your support. Together, we are force and your existence competes me as a person. Fine, you want me to take on the world but alone, I don't think it's possible.

I am so confused at the turn our relationship is taken, your dreaded silence and mood swings. To be very blunt, it irks me to no end. Sometimes, I feel that we will make it and sometimes no. Why things has dramatically changed between us. Is it the weather or our tastes? After being with each other for long, have we discovered we are so different rather than similar? Such things are killing me slowly. You know that. I want to see the real you. At least for once, we can be truthful to each us, no matter how much it hurts our ego and feel that it may jeopardize our relationship.

We've spent priceless moments with each other, dancing in the monsoon, kissing at Marine Drive, holding hands, laughing like crazy, doing stuffs in full glare that people thought we run away from the asylum. We've carved Kodak moments live that will always stay with us. I am convinced about it and hope the feeling is mutual for both of us.

I still remember the first time we met when I asked to share the table at the sea-faced restaurant. You were my saving grace since I wanted to have a smoke with my coffee. We laughed and smoked together. How you made a straight face when I asked for your phone number. If only looks could kill, I would have been dead by now!! We sat together on the boulders where the waves crashed. You held up to me. I can still feel your fragrance when our eyes meet, our lips melted into each other's mouth. We held hands and became physically intimate without realizing how our hearts met. Perhaps, we kissed much before we fell in love with each other. The kiss sealed our fate. I knew on the day that we have a deep and soulful connection that only tragedy could tear us apart. I felt emotionally drawn to you. It was the best day of my life. It was magically divine.

We fought with each other. it turned ugly at times but we mollycoddle each other with sweet nothings. cute whispers and lots of laugh. I love the way you fling things in anger and the sheepish smile that makes me fall in love with you over and over again.

Perhaps, we need to break off from each other for a while, work out our priorities in life and relish our personal spaces. Sometimes, silence may after not be so bad if it works for you. I would like you to reach this expressive letter and take call on our relationship. I shall always love you.

PS: This letter is a fiction and bears no ressemblance to any person nor it's inspired by someone's love or break up story.

Cheerz

Vishal

Small stride towards the greatest moments

Illusion bearing foot prints of a life relished,

every moment and seconds of fulfillment.

The heart never lies,

the mind plays havoc to the soul's quest for truth.

A clash of the mind and the soul,

at loggerheads with each other.

It's a pack of lies,

striving to reason the inner self,

reaching for the moon is within reach.

The inner truth eluding farther,

stars are just a manifestation of the mind.

Standing at the crossroad of life.

languishing at the miscue,

missed opportunities of life,

we go back to the book.

A new start, swimming against the tide,

riding on the storm,

a small stride towards human happiness and building the pillar of human growth.

Live in the moment,

it may be steps away towards the future we crave.

It may take a life time.

With Love

V

India! India! Jashne Hai Jeet Ka

Image credit: Google India

Jashne hai Jeet Ka,

Stomped the rivals,

Men in Blue strike, hitting sixers and centuries.

It's the World Cup.

We go gaga over cricket, no matter how much we loathed some of our guys in the game.

Victory over Pakistan is always delirious and taste like we are already champs.

We die for victory.

When we make six outta six,

we finish pints of beer as if we already won the World Cup.

It's national hysteria.

India becomes one.

We become nationalistic and patriotic.

Work can wait, tasks can be screwed and sex can wait.

It's World Cup.

we are a nation of worriers, 

we wobble at threats from the adverse camp,

yet when we seal the win,

Image Credit: Google India

we go berserk and worship our heroes.

After all, we are a country of hero worship.

Our victims,

the head rolling as we take a dig,

First Pakistan and now South Africa!

This time not for Africa.

It arms us with belief, no matter how unreasonable that our rivals will fall like rotten mangoes.

De Ghumake!

Turn around and hit the ball with power,

let the force make the ball spin and travel.

Ooh! Aah! India!

It's cricket.

Come on, India and keep the winning streak,

Men in Blues.

Let's win it!

Bubble of the heart burst

Numbed I was when we parted ways.

It hardened me like a rock that I swear of never falling in love again. 

Leaving everything for a new city, I was a changed person.

From selfless to ruthless.

Yet the very thought about you, melted my heart.

I asked myself, who were you? An enigma,

Why you came into my life?

Only to inject pain and bruises?

I languished, losing  my identity, cursing myself for falling in love where the language of the heart knows no reason.

The long walks, laugh and innocence all seemto be an illusion.

The days where I grew helpless and restless.

Time is a big healer,

Yet, I thought I'd never survive without you.

The bubble of the heart burst,

The pain is lost somewhere,

Perhaps it's needed to find the path of joy and self discovery.

Love can be the biggest teacher

A Valentine Love Story: A bride in search of love (4)

Fourth and Final Chapter:

Siddharth and Shefali married in Goa. The bride was dressed in a white skirt and her groom wore a simple red Kurta. They didn't want to give their marriage a religious meaning and no priest was called to perform the rites. It was their way to be one with each other inside the hotel room at Calangute. They playfully sprinkled Vodka on each other calling it 'holy spirit of love' and garlanded flowers on their necks.
Our witness and priest is 'Saint Valentine,' they kept telling each other.  We don't need religion to define our relationship to each other, Siddharth whispers in the ears of his wife. She took a bite of his ear. "Ouch, it hurts," he protested.
She walked barefoot on the sand towards the still water in the night to enjoy the silent flow. She asked, "You won't ask about my past before I married Anand? Siddharth smiled, "You know, Shefali. I don't belong to the types of men who question their wives about their past relationships, who they slept with and whom they are going to meet. Love needs trust. This Valentine, let's take a vow to always love each other and be there during the rough and tough times. We shall not doubt each other."
She pinched his cheek, "I love your chubby cheek. You are like a baby, Siddharth and I enjoy mothering you with love and affection. That's what I like about you. I had ex-es and we had sex a couple of times and I will never lie to you because then, our relationship would be built on a week foundation."
She moved her lips but the groom pressed his finger on her mouth. "Let's forget the past. It's of no use to us. This Valentine let's look at our present and future together."
They sat in silence together, admiring the stars and boats standing still in the water. A light breeze wafted and stroke their hair. Holding hands like teenagers and smiling to each other, they were locked into each other's eyes, finding happiness and deep passion. They didn't kiss each but their souls made love.
As they walked away from the beach, Shefali kissed his cheek and said, "Look at the stars in the sky. Aren't they beautiful?"
He nodded with a smile. She asked him, "Close your eyes and make a secret vow. They say that whatever you ask the stars is granted."
He gazed at the stars, "I've already asked which is mine."
They held each other's waist and walked inside their hotel room and made passionate love to each other that night. It was their best Valentine Day. Love can come in unexpected package when we least expect it. Never say No to the most beautiful feeling, their eyes conveyed to each other.

The end

PS: It's a fictitious story and doesn't to any person, living or dead, in faraway corner of the world.

Happy Valentine Day
Vishal

A Valentine Love Story: A bride in search of love (3)

Chapter 3:

The door creaked open. Siddharth and Shefali were oblivious of the preening eyes, engulfed in a passionate kiss. Siddharth pulled off her white blouse and Shefali run her fingers on his hairy chest. Both of them were semi-naked, Shefali sat on the kitchen table and Siddharth was holding her naked waist.

A screeching female voice blew their ears and a violent fist banged on the table. It was Anand.

Both lovers were shaken and they were hit by fear paralysis. Before they could recollect themselves, they were aware of the sandstorm that is going to rock their lives. Anand and Siddharth parents nearly fainted and their mother was in tears. "What a shame," she cried. The father looked away, spoke loudly, "It's a shame and I cannot even dare to look at both of you. Anand slapped Shefali hard, "You woman of loose character, bloody slut, getting fucked by your brother-in-law." The slap resonated so loud in the kitchen and as Anand tried to raise his hands a second time, he was stopped by his younger brother.

"Bhaiya, I respect you. The next time, you try to hit her, I won't hesitate a second to forget that you are my blood," the younger one said, clenching Anand's fist.

Anand was too shocked to react and nearly collapsed. Their mother gasped, "Siddharth." She indulged in drama which she borrowed from serials, "What spell this whore has cast on you? Both of you have violated all social limits, a sister-in-law sleeping with brother-in-law. Both of you should be ashamed."

Siddharth held Shefali hands and before walking away, he turned towards his parents and brother, "It is a fact that we love each other. Shefali has gone through a lot in life and she has always sacrificed her happiness for her parents and Anand. Anand walked towards them and grabbed Shefali's hands, "I am not going to let her leave this house."

Siddharth menacingly pointed his hand towards Anand, "Bhaiya!! I am warning of you. Let go of her."

Anand grew violent and shouted in frustration, "Siddharth, you are just a kid. Get off me and don't interfere between husband and wife." Anand was hurting Shefali and Siddharth calmly walked towards his elder brother and punched him hard on his face. Anand yelled in pain and collapsed on the floor.

Both lovers walked away from the house. Anand parents were too stunned to react.

***************************************
Shefali fought her parents on phone, yelled her lungs out and placated them not to interfere in her life. The drama reminded Shefali of soap opera and she blew her top on her parents, "There is no point for any family reunion with Anand's family, you guys and us. Maa!! Do me a favor and stop speaking about being dutiful or loose morals. Don't get me started on the whole thing. Both Dad and you are the biggest hypocrites. You are telling me how I've failed you and I have loose morals. Let me tell you that I have sacrificed my happiness for your so-called family honor when Nita eloped."
Her mother was at a loss of words and any attempt to make her daughter see reason failed. Her Dad grabbed the phone, "Shefali!! I am warning you for the last time. If you don't go back to Anand and your in-laws, you are dead for us."
Shefali retorted, "At least, it's better to be in a dead relationship than living a life filled with filth and lies. Thank you for reminding me that your pride, ego and society's hypocrisy matters most to you than your daughter's happiness. You always wanted a hypocrite like Anand, a dutiful son, a Mama's boy and Oh! the great sacrifice, taking the moral high ground."
She yelled, "Why can't you guys understand that I never had any relationship with Anand? It's a dead life and full of lies we've lived for all these years. After all, I will not sacrifice my happiness for anything in this world. To hell with your traditions. Fine, if I am dead for you guys. I am not going to go back to the house where I have to speak to the wall and be non-existent to the man who see nothing in me. I was an object, his arm candy to show the world."
She banged the phone. Siddharth walked in, "I spoke to Mom and Dad. They are not seeing reason and what matters to them is their ego. By the way, I overheard your conversation with your parents. There is no point, going to meet them since they are blinded by their beliefs."
Shefali faked anger, "How can you overhear someone's conversation?"
He teased her, "Not someone, my better half and soul mate."
Shefali broke in a laughter and Siddharh bend on his knees, held a turquoise ring, "Shefali!! Will you be mine forever?"
She was in tears, "I am and will always be yours."
Siddharth threw two air tickets on her face and she stammered, "Oh! My God!! G-o-a!! When!!"
He smiled, "Now! In two hours, we are taking the flight. We got no time coz tomorrow is Valentine and we gonna get married on our own, minus a priest."
They kissed, tasted every inch of each other's lips, the mouths stuck like glue. They couldn't believe what was happening and closed their eyes.

A Valentine Love Story: A bride in search of love (2)

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A Valentine Love Story: A bride in search of Love (1)

Valentine Day is round the corner. I am coming up with a novella and today I write the first chapter exclusively for V Day. Read on:

A Valentine Love Story: A bride in search of Love (1)

The coy bride, slowly walked inside the room, decorated with flowers and spread her body on the bed facing the door. OM was sprinkled with red roses and genda on the door. She silently lay on the nuptial bed where her world turned upside down in 24 hours, sacrificing her happiness for the stranger, with whom she took the vows of marriage.

Dry tears rolled on her cheek. She is persuaded that love is an alien feeling that has run away from her existence. How she wished the light were turned off? She longed for darkness and silence where she will be one with her identity which no man can dare touch.

The groom, decked in crimson Sherwani, wearing gold bangles walked to her. He gave her a sympathetic look, his eyes and lips, conveyed gratitude and thank you. After all, she saved his honor. He gentle touched her face with make up, caressed her lips and his teeth moved up the string on her Jodhpuri red saree, untied her blouse. Slowly, he removed the gold bangles and necklace. The groom hesitantly kissed her on the lips, ran his hand down from top to bottom, caressed her belly and moved his mouth on her nipple.She didn't react but breathed in pain and agony.

He opened her tiny legs, before he entered her. She yelled in pain and not one tear dropped from her eyes. He pulled his trousers and dropped dead on the bed. She moved out of the bed and sat throughout the night on the sofa.She felt the huge body entering not only inside her but pushed through her soul, without permission.

Three Years Later:

Shefali led a dark existence, often speaking to the wall in the house when Anand would leave for work. Her husband never communicated to her and sharing few light moments was a luxury that she couldn't afford. The silence killed her. How she longed for him to make love to her, surprising with flower and looking intensely at her face. The only time that Anand and Shefali would converge was during the night when the latter would occasionally hold her, entering inside her body. She thought, 'Though Anand never forced himself on me nor ill treats me, he never asked my permission for sex. I was his legitimate fuck.' There were times when she wanted to kill herself but that would be the easiest route to escape life.

She felt a gush of freedom when Anand told her that he is being transferred to United States for work. Her parents-in-law who are still traditional, living in a different city, pressed on their younger son, Siddharth studying in the same city like Shefali to survey his 'Bhabhi' moves and inform of any wrong doing. Siddharth would pop on and off every week, striking innocent conversation with Shefali Bhabhi. Soon, they became friends. Shefali found him to be sensitive, miles apart from his elder brother. The five-year-gap between Shefali and Siddharth didn't deter their friendship from blooming. They discussed Siddharth's ex-girl friends, studies, naughty childhood days and Shefali opened about her past life. Laughing together about life.

"Do you need to call me 'Bhabhi' always?" Shefali asks.

"Honestly, I feel like calling you Shefali only. We are friends and would be lying if I say that there should be any formality between us. Shefali, you are the friend that I never had. His finger approached hers' and at first, she moved her hands away, before leaning closer to him. She held his hands. They were not in control of their feeling and no power could stop the attraction between them, breaking all convention-cum-moral barriers.

"You never told me about life in college. Any special guy that was part of your life?"

She smiles coyly, "Of course, there were before I got married. I wanted to become a model and still have the sexy black skirt I bought for the fashion show. It was stupid of me to buy the dress. I never had the guts to participate in the show because I was scared."

He naughtily asks, "I want to see you in the dress."

Shefali resists but after the insistence of Siddharth, she relents. "On one condition, you will never tell anyone about it."

He promises not to let anyone know. Minutes later, Shefali walks out of the room to dazzle in the short skirt. Siddharth intensely looks into her eyes, as she approaches towards him. She longs for love as she caressed his cheek, seductively raising her leg towards his face. Shefali walks towards the sofa as Siddharth gently kiss her lips, removing the skirt, caressing her hand and legs, kissing her belly. She wilfully opens her legs and he enters her. Shefali moans in pleasure and felt for the first time that her crave for love and pleasure is being fulfilled. Her heart was singing the song of love and thought, "So, what he is the brother of Anand? I sacrificed my life for him and what I've got out of it. I screwed my life. To hell with society."

As they lay on bed, Shefali asks, "Do you love me, Siddharth?"

He turns towards him, "You are the one that matters the most to me. I will pull all strings to give you love and don't want to see a tear in your eyes. I know, it's the most difficult journey for us. But, we shall arrive, even if it means fighting my parents. I wanted to ask: How did you agree to marry 'Bhaiya and I mean couldn't you say no if you never loved him."

Shefali angrily jumps out of the bed, "We promised not to talk about it."

He held her hands, "If we never speak about it, I would never know. Shefali! I need you support and without you, we can never fight society. Let's be truthful to self and rather than living a life of lie.

They sat in the kitchen as Siddharth made two cups of steaming hot coffee. She narrates the story that changed her life.

I saw Anand for the first time when he came home to meet Dad who was his teacher. Dad always wanted Anand as his son-in-law, morally right and religious. He saw in him the ideal son he never had. I was dating someone in college. There was nothing serious just the thrill of adventure, kissing, making out and running away to Goa. We lived in the moment. One day, Dad came home with ladoos to announce the wedding of my elder sister, Nita, who resisted the marriage at first since there was someone in her life. Finally, after threats from parents, Nita agreed for the marriage. It was the day when my life changed.

V

Dear Barack (Sirrr)!!! Yes We Can

Dear Barack (Sirrr!!!)

I know what you are thinking about your India visit, gushing at Lal Qila and India Gate. You must be biting your nails and curse yourself, wishing that you could have learned dancing to match steps with a Malaika Arora Khan type figure. Heard last last visit, young chillars' gave you a run for your money.

Aha! Speaking of money. Did you brought  a gunny sack of money, doling out kindness to India!!!! I know, there is nothing called a free meal in the world, certainly with the likes of Uncle Sam. It's a deal with Modi-Ji, your new chaddi Buddy aur Langotya Yaar. Yeh Dosti Hum Nahin Todenga. Barack (Sirr!!!) I am talking bout the nuke deal aur Chai pe Charcha with Narendra, the renewed friendship. See!! Modi-ji called you by the first name that I thought for a while that you were twins, separated at birth. You know the story, right! Pardon my indulgence, for addressing you as Barack, adding a Sir. Protocol held. Two brothers separated by the railway track to find each other in the anti-climax. You fight, deny him visa and then kiss and make up. After all, Bade bade deshon mein, Aise choti choti Baatein Hoti Rehte Hain, Senorita. Right, Barack (Sir). You've melted the heart of our desi, Raj. Shah Rukh Khan is like that only, he woos hearts in true King Khan Size.

Image credit: Google

Confused over lost brothers tale. Koi Baat Nahin! You can rent out our 70s Hindi movies DvD's, Lamboo-ji double roles will do the trick for you. You must be missing India, big time, Barack (Sirrrr!!!!) I know, I know. In India, we do Mehmaan Nawaazi perfectly. Barack Devo Bhava. See, you are our new God, adding you to the zillion Gods we worship. One more!! No tension, Barack Sirjee. Our country love everything AmriCan, the politicians, goodies, accents and green cards. Who doesn't want them all in the bag of goodies. Of course, your dollars to pay for our king-sized burgers and Pizzas.

You are a true blue Amreecan, Barack Yes We Can!!!. Before saying Alvida to us, you didn't forget to play a pound fist by gently chiding India over Ghar Waapsi campaign. A respect for all religions and ethnicity is what we need. Sad na that it's always a foreigner who will teach us the basics. A true Ghar Waapsi on your part. Like they say, Haas Haas ke Majaa Lete hain.

Speaking of Dosti and new found Yaarana, Barack (Sir!!) and your new found Kabbadi dost, our dear PM, Narendra Modi must be in for a sequel. See! You know our KJO, Karan Johar who doesn't have anything to do right now. What!! You didn't have Koffee with Karan or met him to discuss his fixation with K....Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Kabhie Alvida Na Kehna, Kabhie Khushi Kabhie Gham. See, the poor guy is outta work. He sit through All India Bakchod to roast celebs. Sad that KJO couldn't roast you. Chale Saath Saath with Modi-ji for climate change. I'm telling you it's heating up: How about giving fodder to the unemployed Karan of Dharma Productions for a new version of Bromance between you and Modi-Ji.

I am just thinking of a third version of Dostana, starring Narendra Modi and his brother Barack. Worry not, KJO will do all the scripting and your penchant for your fashion icon, NAMO. After all, you can give him some work to do, poor boy, roaming aimlessly, on the street of Mumbai doing the Salsa, roasting celebs.

You wanna an anti-climax, no problem!! Our neighbor is just up our arses, like you pronounce in Amreeka. KJO will make them the villain. Remember your goodies worth million for guns to combat terrorism. Your pact with India for payback. How cool an idea?

As it is, Pakistan is already fuming on your visit, Barack Sirr!!! India UN Security council Permanent seat, you are already gunning for your new found dostana with Indian PM.Bechara Pakistan Government is fuming over our growing clout in the region, courtesy Barack (Sir!!) bada Dil aur Dosti. What a 500-crores story idea, this would be, Barack Sir!!!! New found love, bromance and a common enemy over Nuke deal and UN permanent seat. I tell you, a blockbuster from Neta to Abhineta.

Toh Baat Pahki Samaj le over Bromance, N-Deal and dollars!!! Did you click the selfie with your Yaar to show the daughters? Dekh Betiyon Dekh...my selfie with your new found uncle. Do they refer to Namo Chachu at the White House?

Dear Barack (Sir!!!!!) Till we meet again in Dilli for some Dilwallahs moments, Namaskar Pyar Bhara Namaskar.

Barack Devo Bhava

Vishal

Break up story and exploring fresh, passionate romance

Sob!! Sob!! Sob!!!

Drowning self in tissue papers, sentimental tunes and emptying bottles of alcohol.

A story of break-up, wandering aimlessly for the loss of everything.

A romance buried in the past.

It was yesterday only that we were madly in love,

till it happened.

A grim reminded that love, romance and life doesn't last forever.

Longing for the moments of silliness, kissing and intimacy.

Cursing the destiny and wondering what went wrong!

It doesn't help nursing heart-break like Devdas.

The real me knows that I gotta get up and explore life,

reach out to friends who were lost in translation.

Time to get up and celebrate life, flirting shamelessly and going on a date spree.

There is another soul in the world, waiting for me to hold her hand and kiss her in a flurry of passion.

Life is beautiful, live it fully.

Never say no to love.

Ahem! Ahem! Move over the painful past.

Love

Vishal

Myriad thoughts on Republic Day

A proud moment for Indians across the globe. Puja Thakur is the first lady officer who led the guard of honor for US president Barack Obama. As we usher within hours of Republic Day celebration, India faces several challenges both within our land and outside the country. 
The Indian Government has been successful on the eve of 66th Republic Day to make the Nuke deal with United States a reality. Should we cheer up and join the party?
For hopefuls, it's a sign of India's growing clout among the SAARC countries where we can play a strategic role in dictating terms at the geo-political and economic level. It's high time that India lead the pack in the region since we played a miss-and-blinked appearance in the not-so-distant. Certainly, the future looks bright from a global perspective.
As we celebrate our Republic Day, there are some reflections that we need to make. While the Narendra Modi led BJP Government deserve pat on their back for sealing the N-Deal, Swach Bharat Abhiyaan by making a woman Puja Thakur the face of R-Day who will carve a place in history as an officer, there are certain things that we need to mull over.
India is a country that belongs to everyone, irrespective of caste, class, race or gender. Sadly, there have been the blending of religion with politics which doesn't make us very proud. The minority community are feeling alienated when unfortunate and dumb comments by politicians on ridiculous issues such as Ghar Wapsi, Hindus should have as many children as possible and, of course, the attacks by extremists against social crusader and writer Perumal Murugan in their attempt to strive his creative freedom. We are treading on a dangerous path and such extreme detour do not honor the Indian constitution and the country, as a whole.

As an India, my wish would be to see that sexual assaults, rape and violating a woman's character is history and absent in our land since it doesn't make us proud at all. As a vibrant Republic, we don't want our country to be mired in such mudslinging and attack against women who are our equal in society. One hopes that the Government would come with strict laws against perpetrators of violence against women. 
It's a real tragedy when we see the mighty power of the patriarchal society and a system when men decide what is good and bad for women, how the latter should behave and what she must wear to respect the 'great' tradition. A women is labelled as deemed by society because she refuses to confine to the moral yardstick put in place by society. A change in mindset where we let a woman be who she is and respect her individuality is something the vibrant Republic of India is lacking. Blame it on our culture of oppression and repression.
One wish that we become more tolerant when it comes to religion and sexuality. Let's not stifle sexual freedom which is one of the reasons why there are so many crimes in society. How one wish that heinous crimes like honor killing, violating rights of prostitutes, homosexuals and stifling people on account of their caste and religion would be crushed forever. We want a new and fresh India where each and every person is respected and has the right to lead life on their own terms.

As an Indian, it's normal for us to crib on plagues such as corruption, red-tapism, stifling of creative expression and freedom. Yet, we love our India and would love to see our country cited as a model in the world. We have a rich history and legacy that we are proud of and it's time to stop being negative about the potential of India.

O' My country folks!
Let's strive in our expressions and differences.
Our freedom has no price.
Forefathers fought hard for us to breath freely and grow as human beings.
A dream for a better India,
is it too much to ask, fella countrymen and women?
Be proud of India.
Make our country proud of our actions.
Respect and tolerance.
Proud to be Indian

Jai Hind
Happy Republic Day
Vishal

Re-Blogged: A Spaceship called, The Great Indian Litterbug

I started writing this post for  Indiblogger’s “Great Indian Litterbug”  in association with Times of India 'The Great Indian Litterbug' campaign, exclusively on this post. Unfortunately, I realized that on my Indiblogger's account I can only register for my blog on www.vishalbheeroo.wordpress.com and not for this one. Here's re-blogging.

Image credit: https://www.indiblogger.in/happyhours/great-indian-litterbug/

Disclaimer: It's a post written in humor, designed to tick your funny bones to think. Any reference to any human being, living or dead is regretted but anyone taking to offense to it shall not receive an apology. Let's learn to laugh at ourselves before feeling offended and purify the self and environment.

A Spaceship called, The Great Indian Litterbug:

Lights, Camera, Action. The TV crew and anchors, news editors and journalists, train your third eye. Lovelies!! I mean your toting gun for it's a feast that you can't dare to miss. Never Ever Ever Say No coz our Arnab is wearing blinkers, right now. Swach Bharat Abhiyaan. Like Armadegon, the huge India space ship is descending on planet earth. See, how monstrous, super mighty and powerful this mammoth orbit, designed by fellas homo-sapiens descending on earth to wreck destruction.

The super shiny and huge object crafted with the hard labor of fellow Indians is called, The Great Indian Litterbug. How come we couldn't notice this huge power, zillion times mighty than our missiles, rocket and war tanks? US President, Barack Obama on a visiting spree would be mightily impressed with our self-designed power of human destruction, our own, 'The Great Indian Litterbug.' So what, The Taj Mahal is not on his plans?

The designers aren't faulty robots but the doing of the human mass. Peeing on our walls in every nook-and-corner of the country, garbage thrown from our luxurious worth crores sky-scrapers, Bisleri bottle flung at traffic signals as our show-offs BMW zoom ahead, cigarette butts, plastic bags, newspaper, used items stacked to adorn our society. See, we need to give a fresh aesthetic touch to our surroundings. Stacks and stacks of them piled and mounted on each other like the lego game, crafted intelligently and with perfumes, flowing from our urinal oops orgasmic pleasure, escalating like bricks, metals and gadgets, making us proud of our latest technology to show the world.

See, Mr Barack Obama, it's a must to pay a visit and honor our mighty creation, The Great Indian Litterbug' and shake hands with the creators of such objects of great value. The 'Great Indian Litterbug' space ship doesn't make us proud when we see the Indians that you've adopted for ages and call themselves Americans, your own tribe and fellas foreigners love to visit us with a camera and shoot our to-be-famous 'The Great Indian Litterbug' with aha expressions, 'WoW! This is real India.' 

I tell you: We get so irritated with such 'Mehmaan' who is hell-bent in giving honor to our mighty space ship by making it global. You know, Obama Sir! We know very much how to do 'Mehmaan Nawazi'. I just wanna give a pound of my fist with the 'Real India' definition and honor you give to our unique space ship by posting on You Tube, as if it's some sex orgy or masturbation they are doing. Do you guys come here to see our mighty powerful, 'The Great Indian Litterbug'? See! It's no Red Fort, Taj Mahal and Lal Kila or Gateway of India ani Marine Drive.

Dear fellow Indians, wishing you a Happy Republic Day and let's be the change-Do Not Litter-Is it too much to ask? Make Love not wage war against our great India.

Jai Hind

Vishal

Signs of Getting Old

I'm reaching an elixir. In search of a youth filled liquor potion to gulp and feel forever fresh to make oodles of energy rushing in the blood and body, like a teenager. Is age getting to me?, I wonder. There are certain things in the body that is making me at odd with myself as I have passed the threshold of 30 and it is suddenly making me wonder how life is changing when I hark back at the not-so-distant past.
Borrowing a cue from my favorite SEPO (http://snehabhatsepo.blogspot.com/2015/01/10-signs-you-are-getting-old.html) who wrote a post on 10 Signs of Getting Old, here I am borrowing the entire tree.

1. Last time, I was invited to a friend's two-year-old birthday bash and post Chillar Party, there were plans for adults to stay over a little late till midnight. I hanged around, had few wines and started thinking that it's already 6 p.m and staying till the wee hours would spell trouble. I shall feel sleepy and pang of back pain started cropping up There is no way that I can stay till midnight and made an early exit, to go home and sleep.

2. By nature, I am a night owl and my Mumbai days were spent, roaming around the deserted streets and of course, places like Marine Drive, either hanging solo in company of friends or in hostel staying awake past 3 in the morning. It's been a year now when the eyes start getting rolling past 11.30 p.m, sleep knocking on the door. It got to do with the fact that I report to work at 9 but there were times when waking up at 6 a.m would mean sleep at 2, past the wee hours.

3. I don't remember the last time I wooed a girl and slowly it's become a phase when the women species hardly exist in my dictionary of life or getting attracted to someone in a public place, be it a bus, shopping mall, smiling to strike a conversation has abandoned me. Where has all the godamn crush (es) gone?!

4. There was a time when every week it would be a must to catch a movie either at the theater or on DvD. It was a religion for me but nowadays, I forsake my religion of movies for weeks and sometimes, it hit a month.

5. When I hit the sack on New Year eve and hate the very mention of fire crackers cum staying awake to whatsapp friends or sms-ing at midnight to wish best wishes in the new season. It's just me and my bed or TV takes prominence over New Year celebration.

6. When loans and EMI start bugging you to no end and getting over stressed when you gonna finish it all to sleep peacefully. Money, Money, Money start making sense and you start planning on Insurance investment to save your ass during rainy days.

7. When you stop whining when you have to wear formal trousers and shirts, which you hate, for special occasions to office. I am a completely Tee and Jeans person. Getting all dressed in formal attire is something I just hate and see the irony of not resisting the monster.

8. When you start getting conscious wearing torn off jeans that makes you an awesome rebel you take pride in. Yeah!! I have a penchant for torn and rugged jeans, one of my favorite 'Flying Machine' is displayed proudly on the chair.

9. When small and minor irritation start getting to the brains and you start feeling so powerless and angry rather than laughing at the stupid you.

10. You star over-analyzing and over-thinking at every mundane stuff that affect your life and the result is, whole day spent mulling at things where you've arrived at no solution to the issue.

Cheerz
Vishal

Skirt and denim flowing, kissing way to heaven

Put the music blaring loud,

it ain't jazz.

Dude sporting blue denim, white shirt and boot,

I wanna swim naked in the Arabian sea.

Marveling at my artistic swimming skill,

they shall clap inside their heart.

Yet, the outer demon will slander my gut and brand me the 'shameless creature' showing my assets.

A blot to their culture, I am.

My body shall float above sea level.

Another catch, as they revel in my death.

Womaniya! In mini-skirt, strumming the guitar on the beach,

smoking up to the heart's delight,

as she pulls on the powerful bike,

dancing her way to heaven.

Weaving the song of life,

men and women,

daring to take the world by storm,

naysayers offended.

Sinful chocolate,

lips melt together as they watch us, powerless.

Nah! We shall not resort to violence.

Will offer flowers in lieu to brickbats,

we shall kiss in front of them,

shaming them, their false pride, prejudices, hatred with love.

We dare take on the system and be real.

With Love

V

Hunting for Perfection: Saas, Bahu aur Mamma's Boy

Picture credit: FB friend, Neha's wall. Reproduced with permission.

Guess, who said that?!! Mommy-ji of course, bride hunting for Kunwar, the charming prince, who will take care of her in the good old age. Momma boy, need a bride. Of course, not! He doesn't need one. Maa needs a Bahu. Worried that the 'bechara beta' may die without a bride. Who will carry the lineage forward? Of course, the only 'waaris' in the 'Khandani Parivar'. 

See! Who will make tea, lunch and dinner at home? Performing the religious rites, sacrificing food and Karwa Chauth throughout the year, of course, cleaning the house and souls purifying the 'Ganga-like' household? Of course, the dutiful and domesticated daughter-in-law, pressing 'Saasu Maa' legs while she plonks herself on the couch, the helicopter like fan rolling in the air to provide her respite from the excruciating heat. 'Saasu Maa' need to guard herself from the heat that a modern, educated daughter-in-law may lash on her.

Maa is worried bout the tattoo on 'Bahu' dearest body. Log kya kahenge? Feminist, no way!!! Traditional Brahmin not eating chicken and beef raw, yes!!! Nah!! She will not dance on the table to the tune of Kamli, aspiring to be Deepika Padukone, flaunting her abs or questioning the Saas way of doing things at home. No arguing or questioning religious beliefs. Way to go!! That's like my Baahu. In Saasu Maa universe, boozing or late night party, is out of question. What if the Baahu is having an orgy of sort with her gang of girls?! Don't tell, Saasu Maa. She will die of a heart attack. Nahin!!!! Nahin!!!!! What will the Samaaj say? Boozing among her English-speaking friends is simply out of question for the Mother-in-laws of the world. 

Ladies, are you planning to apply with your decorated CV to join this household? Chuck out your job description!!!! serving beer in the five-star hotel, one-time hooker, Ganja smoking or hitting the guy who made a pass at you with the helmet. Stop arguing for any flimsy reasons, ladies or else, at your own peril, you shall remain (Un) Happily Married. At your own risks for torturing this morally uptight mother-in-law. See! She wanna see a mirror image of her own younger self in you.

You are too westernized for her own exquisite taste of what a Baahu should be like. You must wash the dishes, make tea for the husband, wait for Pati Parmeshwar to have dinner before you eat, press and touch his feat and, of course, have sex only if Paati-dev wants to. Of course, he will ask Mommy-ji permission and mind you, if she says it's 'Paap', you'll keep longing for some thrill and adventure on bed. Saasu Maa is the one who decides when and if it's not for procreation, you are doomed. Sensual pleasure is sin with this Saasu-Maa. She will consult her astrologers or pay a visit to Baba Ramdev before both of you get under the white sheet. Don't ever think to buy the 'balloon' to make Pati-dev wear. It's the biggest sin you will commit and if Saasu-Maa ever gets to know, your room must be cleaned. Then? Haawan Karenge, Haawan Karenge!!

Yeh Bandhan toh Pyar Ka Bandhan..Janmon ka Bandhan Hai!!! You see, Sir!! Huge circle of friends shall be kept at bay kyon ki marriage is about the union between two souls, never mind the kitty party of bitching about the 'Baahu Rani.' O! Womaniya!!! Feminist, too western in outlook, English Vinglish or fighting for a social cause, you are dead. Our Bhaiya-ji is 37-something baby, the chairman waiting for Mamma call in office to check if he had breakfast or lunch, seeking her blessing to chair meeting. Shubbh Mahurat! Don't you forget that you gotta plan well with this hubby of yours, 'Aaji Sunte ho.'

Planning for a baby or paying your bills cum starting a new venture. Don't forget to check your stars first. Shubbh Mahurat matters and, of course, taking Saasu-Maa's blessings. Any takers for this proposal, ladies? Chuckle! I think, I am going to die if my Mom ever post this kind of ad on my behalf or without permission.   Waise Mommy-ji!!! Have you ever consulted Smriti-ji? Kyon ki Saas Kabhi Bhi Bahu Thi. I bet you are the chuddi buddy of Ekta Kapoor. Sakshi Maharaj, I am telling you must be remotely related to this classic Mom that would give Nirupa Roy and Raakhee a complex. Mere Karan Arjun aayenge.

A last question before I go: Have you considered taking insurance for Beta-ji? I am just asking coz insurance is a matter of solicitation. How bout' a legally binding contract for the son and his would-be-newly wed wife? Just letting you know, I am not bride hunting.

Reflection on New Year doston: It's 2015

The party is over. Recovering from the hang over and damage to ear lobes havoc cause by fire crackers, dusty calendars thrown off as a new one replaces it, adorning the wall. Fresh paint on the wall. Nah! Same old paint but new calendar stand proudly in every nook-and-corner of the house. Happy New Year folks. Wish you love, positive energy wafting through your lives and may all your dreams come true.

We long for new year eve, partying hard till the wee hours admiring the sunrise, shopping spree, spending like a fish for the new year. In the flick of second, it's passe and we wake up to a brand new season. Dekho 2015 Zamana Aagaya.

Every year, the common people face the same old issues, inflation, housing, caste, class discrimination, attitudes towards women being exploited, corruption and exploited by capitalists. We shall get set, go to office or college to be stuck in a rut. We shall forget the promises made to self as we go about in our contented selfish lives. How many of us would stand up for the girl child abused or woman molested in public spaces? We will sink in and nurture prejudices against race and caste, jealously protecting our religion at the outset of attacks, flaring up tempers. How intelligent on our part?

Let's reflect that a start to the year is not just about clinking glasses and go about in the same old routine of life. Our country is facing several challenges and it's not just about Swacch Bharat or hitting against discrimination or crazy acts such as terrorism in Assam or Peshawar, Ghar Wapsi. A small difference such as feeding a child or treating woman with respect in this patriarchal set up and caring for everyone irrespective of caste, class, race or sex will make the year a beautiful one.

On the personal front, I look forward to enjoy every moment of life, reading more books and doing book  reviews. I've done quite a few last year and I am getting so many requests from authors' to review their works. Participating in blogging challenge is something I look forward to and coming with creative posts. We shall blog to the hearts' contentment and consolidating old bond, making new friends on this space. Thanks my blogger friends for making my life beautiful and a memorable one.

Let's leave the past behind and look up to the new season filled with hope, optimism, victories and facing new challenges.

May all your dreams come true.

Happy New Year 2015.

Vishal