Ethics and hypocrisy

During our formative years in college, we were taught principles and ideals to stand for in life. We were young and ready to take the world as we learn to question pre-established norms for a better society. There was an idealism in life as we promise to stand what we believe in. We thought that we will not falter in the face of adversity and question corrupt practices, scheming thought and manipulations in the world. Alas! We were also taught that it is a tough world waiting for us and only time will tell whether we will withstand the test of time. At the end of college, we vow to make our alma-mater proud of us and always think of the teachings of our eminent teachers whom we hold in awe.
Enter the real and we are faced to the harsh realities of life. You name it, you get it....office politics, manipulations,lies, natak baazi and unreasonable mindsets, racism, fareb, corruption, casteism, racism and unfairness. There are thousands such things. I have always believed in treating people in a fair and correct manner. Several times, I maintained a silence at the face of injustice so as to avoid clash with people and avoid being at the receiving end of an unfair society. But, recently I decided to stand for something even if I am not involved. I am not going to sit as a silent spectator even if another person is treated in an unfair manner just because he or she belongs to a different caste, creed, gender and most importantly not my country. Such things gets to me.
C'mon gals and guys so what if someone does not belong to your country, does that mean that person should be discriminated? We are all human beings and are living in a global world. I mean, that's so shitty and which world you are living in. Prejudices against people is one thing that I cannot stand. Probably because I am an idealist and dream of a fair and just society where all men and women will be treated on a equal footing. The pace at which the world is moving is crazy and our way to attain our goals, we think that we can stumble on the rights of any human being.
I may not protest every time coz it makes no point changing people and often it's better not to fall prey to people's narrow mindset. I often say let it go. But, in another cases, I refuse to bow down to social injustice meted to other people. It's a question of principles and human values. Sometimes, I really wanna take on the world. But, I also understand that we are living in a hypocrite world: Going along with your principles would mean that society will not let you live peacefully and you will be driven to the wall. They will use each and every lies and cheap tactics to make you abide by the mainstream rules. It's difficult to live in this world when you believe in something and make your principles and ethics a part of your self. But, kill my principles and I cease to exist as a human being. It's like losing my individuality and a part of my identity as a human being.
Now, why do I chose to take a stand when someone else is treated in an unfair manner or discriminated against? It happens in all walks of life, be it an organization like the workplace or a club. I could chose to remain silent, do my job and go home. It's simple: I would not like to be treated in an unfair way. If I stand for something, I can say yes I adhered to values which I believe in. Or else, life will become so meaningless. Not to mention the gossips that people indulge in and I have a feeling that a person don't have anything to do in life. I mean to say that they have no purpose in life.
The same applies to corruption when a minister or high paid executive takes a bribe. That's crazy. I mean how much money do you want and will you bloody take the money in your coffin when you die. Theek hai, we all want to earn money so as to live a decent life, afford holidays once in a while and buy some luxury or our choice of brands as well as buy a car or a nice flat. But, siphoning off crores? Again, your life is becoming meaningless in the hunt for me. I solemnly ask, What is important hurting people by stealing or earning respect? Becoming a better human being, believing in humanity or becoming filthy rich?

There are questions raging in my head. Standing for ideologies, values or remaining a mute spectator at the face of things. I am quite honest to concede that sometimes I keep my mouth shut at the face of injustice or unfairness against someone else while in other circumstances I hit back. The moments I keep my mouth shut, should I protest and fight back. Answers sought!!!!!!

Dollops of romance

I saw her for the first time in the lobby and immediately jumped with joy.
We didn't took long to connect.
There was something about her. Her dignified grace, angelic smile and playfulness.
Her presence brings a rush of radiance, purity in my space.
Life is beautiful.
She is an angel.
The angel that brings life in my journey of life.
A woman of substance that comes once in a while and totally unexpected.
It's a sweet love.
The matters of love sometimes calls for silence.
We share so much in common.
Yet! The feelings may not be mutual.
After all,what is sweet love without some element of pains, dollops of romance and dreams.
It is a silent romance.
My romance.
It matters to me and only to me.
Be happy in love and romance.

Mixed baggage of emotions, feeling your presence my friend

It's a very personal post.For a quite a few days, I am being transported in a trance-like situation and I am delving further into the outer world, free of the human bonding and attachment. Sometimes, I wonder that life is really too short and we should detach ourselves from the real world and emotions. Rather, we should embrace the cosmic world, non-physical and enter the 'energy' body. Let's face it: We are living a fake existence in this world full of hypocrisy and sliding into the non-real of the human bondage and attachment.
I have just realized our fake existence. I mean, I know we are all living a fake life as ordinary mortals. I made an experience 2 days back when I felt the presence of someone in my life. Whoever are reading this post has the right to think that I have gone mad or some shit like that or that I am fooling people around. On Wednesday, I was in a low ebb as I happened to check my orkut page and scrapes that dates back way to 2006. I happened to read the scrap I sent to Sudhu and he sent back to me.
Then, one find day when there was no Facebook and I was gung-ho on Orkut, I remember quite well that time. I just shifted to Mumbai from Pune. One fine Sunday, I was getting bored in my room at Churchgate and went to the cybercafe to check my orkut scraps. I ran through a scrap by another dear friend of mine Koko, telling me..Hi Vishal, by now you must have heard the bad news...Sudhu is no more. He was carried away by the waters at Khadakvasla dam. I was dumbfounded and shell shocked. I mean why on earth, I dint check my scrap earlier and why I was informed much later after he died.
Several questions raced into my mind: How come life is so unfair and someone we are closed to, chose to disappear? Why it happened? Sudhu was the one who gave me the Bachchan nickname and people still knows me as Bachchan in Pune. I njoy being called Bachchan as it reminds me of Sudhu's presence in our lives.
Yeah, I am missing him for days now and perhaps it's his way to tell me that he is around. There are days where one wonder, Dude, why was the need for you to go, why couldn't you wait for some more time. I've been in this mode for a week now and this time around, when I wake up, I don't want to do anything neither I am in a mood to speak to anybody. Life is a bitch. I often wonder about the futility of life. As ordinary mortals, we rush to work and make money. But, does it matter? Coz we can never know when our lives will be over. Personally, it is a very complex situation: At the end of the day, does our existence really carry any value whatsoever? We live in a hypocrite society and lead a very fake existence. We get swayed by big bucks, material stuffs and emotions like love and soo many things associated to it. In fact, what w are living is a mere illusion.
Days before, I was shedding tears thinking of Sudhu. But, before sleeping, I felt a presence, his presence. I have no words to qualify that, He must be laughing looking at me and wanna say, kya re Bachchan, mere ko yaad kar raha hai,,bas kya..I am very happy and looking after you.Yes, Sudhu, I know you are here and I know that whenever I go through a tough time, you will send your blessings. I just need to close my eyes and say a small prayer. You are here forever and ever: Sending your love. Dude, send some more love and vibrations.
We shared good vibes and that's why we became friends. The cosmic energy that we share is intact and I know that you have entered your energy body. You taught me so many things about life and existence. The need to be myself and stand out in the crowd. Sometimes, your absence gets too me and this week, I was trying to reason with myself. Deep down, I know that you are still very much present among us, sending love and sharing happiness. Whenever, I faces any problem, I think of you. You must be negotiating happiness with the Almighty and it will be sent just in time You must be saying: Dude, dekha maine vaada nibhaya.
I am missing you. I know that it's your way of telling, mere ko yaad kar, Hamesha, I have not gone anywhere man and I'm still very much present with you. Sudhu bhai, mine being quiet for the whole day and thinking of the good times we spent together, having daaru, chai aur cigarettes gives me an inner peace. I do get emotional at times, thinking that it's been six years now.I know six fucking years that you chose to enter the 'energy' world. You chose to continue your life in a world completely different from the world I am living. You shall continue to  travel and enjoy being with the angels, having a whisky, dude.
I know that we will meet again. When I enter the 'energy' world, you will be the first one to welcome me. Kya re Bachchan! aagaya tu..daaru piyega. Dude! We shall booze and have lotsa fun like we once used to have in the other world. Till then njoy and continue your journey. One more thing, send some love from time-to-time in my life. I know you are sitting here and smiling. Gosh! I am feeling your presence again. Now, I am feeling better. I know that the love is being sent. Say hi to Dad and bhaiya. Chalo then, bhau..miltey hai. Haan! Promise..well, you know what no need to spell it here..and ya you remember that chick on that evening....hahhah lol...

Thinking of the wonderful moments spent together over..
Sutta, Imperial Blue whisky, cigarette aur chai..
Feeling very emotional nowadays.
Thinking of you, dude.
Tis your way of saying you are visiting and saying Hi in your majestic style.
Like the Greek god, you conquered.
Those reading this might think that I am nuts.
Of course, I am not..
But, they won't understand..let it be..
Getting in the trance and back in the life.
Life is beautiful.
You led a beautiful life here, Sudhu bhai and there as well..Njoy it.
Send some love and magic.
Visit again..
Who said that you are not here?
I know that you are with us and will be forever.
You have reached the immortal existence.
You are superior to ordinary mortals like.
You are and always be with me.
There is  a smile on my face now.

Love as always, Sudhu bhai

Boys and emotions

Okie..dokie..we've earned enough wrath from the fairer sex..coz we are emotionless..we are not caring. In fact, more sustained effort must be made to show them our love. We can't even say I love You, to our moms..Yes! I admit I can't do it. I mean, I just can't. But, does that make us heartless, ruthless?!
Boys are boys. At the risk of sounding a typical MCP, which I am obviously not one, we normally don't say I love you to mom nor do we indulge in hell lotsa conversation with her. Neither, do we write long letters to mom nor do we spend a long time on conversation with her. Girls mostly do that coz they have a lot to tell their mothers. We may call only if we have some burden to unleash or in dire need of money. But, that doesn't mean we don't love our mothers.

We make our mom happy by scoring first class in distinction and get through the merit list at our examinations. I remember the time when I got through the merit list for my master's degree at Mumbai list and that too through my bachelor degree results at Fergusson College. I called mom and she shouted with joy on the phone. We may not be physically present with my mom but, if I am working in some other city or world and doing well, it's my way of telling her how much I love her. I make my parents through small gestures and never show off loads of affection. That's my way or if you like, the boyz ways of making mama and Pop proud.
We operate more or less in the same way with our girlfriends or spouses. We may not say I love you several times but by giving you a surprise gift, red roses or chocolates, it's our way of saying how much we care for you. Same happens for a female friend with whom we share good vibes. Personally, I don't need to tell you that as a friend, I care a  lot for you and that you are a sweet friend. It is through my small and random acts of kindness that you should get the feel. Occasionally, I may surprise you with a goodie or chocolate. That's my way of showing that I care for you and anytime, I am here for you. I have always believed in friendship and don't look for give and take in any relationship. Call at 4 a.m, I will be here for you. That's my way. I don't expect you to give me anything in return. I don't need that nor do I believe. It's sad that many people look for benefits in human relations or friendships. Such relationships never survive and never existed. Dosti kiya toh nibhana padega. When something doesn't happen, we do feel bad. But, it's just that.
It's a myth that boys don't cry and that when their love and dear ones suffer, they don't feel the pinch. bhenchod! Pura bakwas hai. It's just that we don't show our affections and that we cry in silence. We don't like others to see tears in our eyes and it's very true that when we go through a rough patch, we pretend to be happy. It's just that we are designed in such a way.
Speaking of myself, I'm a phenemenon and damn weirdo. Guess, I do things differently and I've earned things like, stop running for friends like that or they will take you for granted. Well, let them take for granted, I don't fucking care. In a nutshell, I am completely unpredictable and emotional by nature..whoa did I just said that? You see, I may not show my emotions but do things in such a way to make you feel special. Guess, they don't make man like me anymore..lol..belief in the adage, give and give...I just don't publicly show my emotions coz I have never believed in that. I prefer to do things in my own way and if there is need to go out of my way to make someone feel special or happy, I shall do so. Well, that's me.

Days of innocence

Hey pals,
wassup! Just watched Bubble Gum, a cool flick about the tribulations of being 14...woh Bachpan ke din..woh stupid fights, first cush albeit falling in love..woh bachpana..first cigarette..first time you fall for the chick and wanna her to see you. At that age, there is no proposal..no date at CCD or Barrista. That was the age where der was no cellphone, net as in Facebook or Orkut..You like her or you add her. Today, they have it so easy na? SMS, FB, Twitter..The cute days of our lives.
At one point, you just stand on the bus stop, waiting to catch a glimpse of her..you wanna talk to her but you are scared..dil dhadak raha tha..ab bhi dhadhak rahai hai..this innocence..I mean this part of love or crush hasn't changed at all. kahan gaye woh din?! Just a thought.
The first cigarette that you puffed..chupke chupke..fearing that gossip-walli aunty that you hated so much will spell it off to mom. Hiding from Mom and Dad and running away from home to meet your frienz and when you get late, you try to sneak in the house. If you are caught, you are screwed. I would always get beaten by mom and was shit scared of her. Padhai karo you idiot, your xams are coming..ab parents ko kaun samhjaega ke jab ishq hogaye padhai se kaam nahin chalta hai, bey. Parents were so booring...oops pardon..serious about our studies. The time one tries to be a good boy for a day just to get the mouth watering ice cream or chocolate..Rishwat dena khood papa ne sikhaya...get good marks, you will get a watch nahin to a stick will land on your bum. Mastikhor, we all were and today, in the humdrum of job, we seems to have the lost the child in us. We have become soo serious that we have forgotten how to live life and jump wid joy...Hey, I'm a cool dude, are you?
O' childhood days, O' childhood days why don't you wanna come back again? I'm so tired being an adult these days? Life is such a lost cause playing an adult..On top of that, I'm terribly missing my college days..like hell..The time when there is no worry in life...no tension of job, salary and responsibilities..will these magic days in college comeback? bunking lectures, relationship shits and crazy stuffs we've done..sitting with mates and deciding which girls are hot and cute on campus...Life was such an ice cream kinda situation and lil' did we realized that it gonna melt..and it did..and I'm happy dat we enjoyed the ice cream before it melted out. Nothing like college days. And to imagine many of the pals are married and shouldering responsibilities..The saturday booze, gandia party and movies in the early morning.
Time to sign off now..I know, I know, it's a kinda of shitty post but, but..neways.
Happy Sunday.
Let's take a vow...not to lose the child within.

Auto-biographically yours

It's been long, I haven't written anything auto-biographical, at least, for the first time..I'm going auto-biographical on this blog for the first. At the risk of making it sound like a self bio-epic or dramatic. let me assure you all that I'm alive and kicking. I'm hale and hearty and doing very well in life. One is tempted to say, life is magical and beautiful.
Since you all know that I've been to Goa and explored on my own this year, it was the best thing that happened to me. It was my first trip and reached Goa on 31 December and stayed till 3 January. It was a soul-stirring journey and my spirit was flowing in South Goa, Konakona till the North side, Panjim/ Miramar. I traveled a lot from one point to the other and made new friends. Unfortunately, I couldn't meet Kaku, a dear Goan friend and educated myself in the city. I love Baga beach lane and saw quite a few dolphins. Bonds of friendship were strengthened, made new friends and got help from unexpected quarters.
The year started on a great note and looks like, things will move swiftly this year. I'm high on that and the year seems to unfold itself with unexpected zing. My God! How time changes and for good. Perhaps, at this point of time last year, things didn't seemed bright at all and now how the optimistic side of life is unfurling itself. I am a happy man as I realized my joy for traveling.
Finally, after aeons I am able to work on my script for my short film and my novel. Yes, it is taking shape and already penned some 9 pages for the novel and the script has neared four pages. I have sent the initial script to a friend who works as an assistant film maker for feedback. So, I'm waiting for the suggestions and will be taking it from there. I am also seeking advice from another friend who worked as an AD with Prakash Jha on Rajneeti and Aarakshan. So, for the time being Mr script is on the back burner. I need feedback on the essence of a bound script, amid locations. This is missing in the script. Hope to finalize at least three short scripts towards the year end.
Speaking of novel writing, I already finished reading the auto-biography of Dev Anand, Revolution 2020 and I am currently reading Rashmi Bhansal's I have a Dream and Ohh Yes, I am Single....And So Is My GirlFriend!Lovely book. It's a complete page turner and is all about today's youth in India. I'm hooked to it.
I'm yet to get out of my holiday mood and it's still within me..Good thing is that I was and am able to de-addict myself from Facebook. It's such a relief. My entire life is such a gamut of contradictions, unpredictability. At one moment, I am extrovert and the next moment, I turn to the silent mood. Can't help it..I have been designed in such a way!!!! Right now, I am going into my famous withdrawal way and wanna cut myself from the whole world..can't do it much coz at work, I gotta interact but I shall interact less for some time..and then back home, back to my moody-cum-withdrawal element. It happens to me from time-to-time and I find peace and serenity in that. I'm such a moody being..can't help it, my sun sign is cancer.
Relationships have become more and more complex..There was this gal which I kinda liked and dated in the past. After college, I was wondering where the fuck she disappeared and searched for her on Facebook like hell. She reminded me of sweet moments spent together. But, when I just found her on FB, now I'm not very much interested in sending her a friend request or message for that matter. Life is complex and equation is even more complex. That's life....My Life. Why am I like that? Completely insane.
I've been quite inactive on blog and the brightest part is that at least I have the time to write some quality posts in comparison to every mundane things I was writing. Till last year, it almost became an obsession but not this time. So far, so good. I watched Dhoom 1 last night and reminded me of college days. Speaking of college days, I'm missing it like hell..I wonder whether I will ever be able to get out of it. Time flies and whatever, we've done..the masti, fun and illegal stuffs..it seems like yesterday only..God knows it will never come back but perhaps in a magical package..who knows?
Must also admit that the day ended not in such a great mood..I felt bad for something which happened due to my lack of judgement..hell no!Nothing tragic..anyways
Will come back in a jollier mood..life is beautiful yet complex..I'm even more complex. Trying to create space for myself:)

Tale of my city

A tale of my city.
I left my city coz destiny had other plans for me.
My soul remained entrenched in city life.
My city...That's where I draw my inspiration.
The first time our glares met, I was fascinated by its immense beauty.
There is no one like my city.
She's soo beautiful and flawless.
Outsiders think otherwise..but, who cares?
Some call her Kalbadevi, for some it's Maximum city.
She's The Queen's necklace.
A world of two extremes.
My city, my life has been there.
In it, I play a very important role.
I lived there, I cried and shouted her.
I rock in my city.
My city taught me the essence of daily struggles.
Local trains, vada pav, sea face romance, monsoon, yellow-and-black cabs, the slums and the skycrapers.
After years of parting, destiny thrust me back with a bang in my city..
..but, only for a few days..
Amazed I was...
How my city never changed.
It is a world in itself...
I struggled, ran like a mad dude to catch the train and nab a cab..shouting Taxi, Taxi...
I lived my life in my city.
Here I live, dream and danced till the wee hours.
My city gently reminded me where I should be.
I am again not present in my city.
Ahem! Ahem!
Here, promising myself to be back where I belong.
My city, my life..Here..where I studied, I work...
Some call it an obsession..
If you haven't guessed my city..
It's Mumbai.
I love my city.

P.S: The poem has been inspired by the Mumbai anthem by Mid-day. Cheers to my city.
www.facebook.com/MumbaiAnthem
www.twitter.com/MumbaiAnthem
www.themumbaianthem.com

Who is the guy who gets the gal?

Ahem! Ahem! I never thought that I would ponder on this question: Who's the guy who gets the girl? The clean shaven dude, totally mad-freako-manic, unkempt beard, soft-spoken, classy gentleman or the badass? Tough question to answer..Especially, when it comes from a question...though I believe a certain element of raw sex appeal is a must.
Well, just kidding..There is nothing like the rich-spoilt brat or the one who carries a big money bag. Nothing, like that. Trust me..I swear on the heads of my uber conservative ancestors who think that masturbating is not cool at all. Frankly speaking, I am still decoding this kinda question and guess, the girls are the best candidates to answer that. But, since I am a guy, I have to contemplate since it is a matter of survival. Well, let me put it the other way....Who's the girl who will be able to successfully seduce 'Vishal'....well, a certain oodle of sex appeal, hotness, well read, intelligence, grace, fun-loving and the list goes. But, the most important seduction factor is 'being oneself''..yes, yes..I just solved the complex, brain-wacky equation..The bloke who gets the girl is the one who is himself.
Finally, I may not be Ranbir Kapoor or Abhishek Bachchan, the hunks who are the smooth talkers or rich kids who seduced the likes of well....Deepika, Katrina, Aishwarya, Sonali Bendre or Dipanita Sharma for that matter..No, I don't own a Bmw or have unlimited cash balance which never seems to end..at least, I am confidence to get the gal coz I am myself. Only, the degree of rejection exist 90 per cent of the time.
Whether I chose to be the bad boy coupled with unkempt beard, long untrimmed hair..at least I am myself and don't suffer from the abhorred syndrome of attention-seeking behaviour. I'm pretty confident about making my move and asking the hot sexy chick out. I may not triumph in the start but at least I am happy being myself. If we cannot date, she can be my friend and ultimately we can make things happen for sure.
Guys, doesn't matter if you are not the most handsome dude on earth or the richest man on the planet, what matters is being oneself at the end of the day. So, what if you have the 'bad boy' image? I mean who fucking cares as long as your being yourself. Never part with your identity even if she wanna change you to fit her definition of the 'perfect man'. Remember, there is another who wanna see your 'true self.'
I feel that 10 to 15 years down the line we will always be remembered for our crazy, wild and unbrazen side, no matter where we reach in life. We might end up joining the corporate ladder but we will be best remembered for the time we sported our innocence, the times where the looks or judgement of others hardly mattered. Remember the unbuttoned, hairy chest, drawl, confident strut across the screed..Vijay of Deewar in 1970s..This version of Amitabh Bachchan who had no qualms of jumping to bed with Parveen Baby..the wild Bachchan who now transformed into Mr Bachchan of KBC. Well, he is best remembered for his wild side in Deewar by the mom's and aunties.
Me thinks, I've built a case...Smart dudes who has nothing to prove to anyone is ultimately the winner, not the fucked-up wannabees
Question decoded.
Have fun.

LPNY resonates with today's youth

Just watched London-Paris-New York starring Ali Zafar and Aditi Rao Hydari. What a sweet love story! It is the story of Nikhil and Lalitha, a middle class South Indian-Maharashtrian sexy-combo-kinda chick. Nikhil plays a Bandra boy who wants to study film-making in London. Destiny had other plans as Lalitha and Nikhil meets up in London.
They meet, sing songs to each other had a rollicking time with each other before they realize that they are in love with each other. The forte of this Anu Menon's flick is its dialogue. Like kissing may mean that whether the couple may produce beautiful kids or Lalithapedia. Aditi Rao is natural as Lalithapedia as she infuses freshness in her character. She plays the role of the fiery feminist cum future politician with ease. It's amazing to see her transformation from Abhishek Bachchan's Bhabhi in Delhi-6 to the helpless wife of a don in Yeh Saali Zindagi and the reporter using her sexuality..read body to get real news from Ranbir Kapoor in Rockstar. She has grown as an actor and is someone to watch in the coming years.
Ali Zafar at the onset seems a lil bit uncomfortable playing the typical Bandra Boy and me think it got to do with the fact that he is not a typical Mumbai boy. I think Anu should have put some layers of Bandraite in Zafar's character..Somehow we missed a Bandraite looking for his Sandra.However, post the interval, Nikhil gets back on track and gives a lovely performance. He is wonderful in the emotional performance, particularly in the climax. Whether as the flirtatious or romantic Nikhil, Zafar will make the audience go gagga over him.

The movie is well shoot and LPNY is a love story with a difference. The vision of Anu is commendable with the dose of freshness she injects in her characters. The good thing with LPNY is that it mainly centres on two characters, Nikhil and Lalitha. A special word of mention for Aditi Rao Hydari whose portrayal of the Paris girl is a delightful. A superhot chick who thinks that wearing glasses can make a woman hot.
I have always said that content, the director's treatment and good performance matters in a good film. Certainly, the future belongs to the young generation and Anu is a young director with a vision. It explores the nuances of todays relations among the youth!With a bang. It's a love story with a difference. LPNY will appeal to 20-something and 30-something. Plus, it's not heavy. It's a cool 100 minutes movie.
Only thing is that the music could have been better and should be elevated a notch higher o portray the nuances of the relationship between Nikhil and Lalitha. Plus, we personally miss some portions of amchi mumbai, in particular Bandra. Go for it. It's worth a dekkho and much today's youth.

P.S: I'm reviewing a movie after 3 and a half months. This makes me more than happy. I am on a high 

Harishchandrachi Factory

Just finished watching India's entry to the Oscar in 2010, Harishchandrachi factory, based on the pioneer of Hindi Cinema, Dada Saheb Phalka. Magnificent film. It's a small master piece. I know I'm late. I've been hunting for a DvD copy and finally me got one in Pune.
Dada saheb went on to make 100 movies in a career span of 20 years. wow! What a movie. It's still hunting me. The movie traces Dada saheb route and despite all odds, he didn't lost heart and even traveled to England to learn about film-making. He used his meagre income and went on to create an Industry. Now, India is the highest producer of films in the world. The movie is the fittest tribute paid to the great man. I remember someone telling me way back in my college days that if you don't get a platform, create one. Dada saheb created one. It teaches us to live our passion, no matter what. It is already inspiring me to do something and pursue my passion.
Finally, Marathi movie has come of ages and such talent with movies like Harishchandrachi factory should be promoted. What's important is not big finances but small budget movie with a good script and proper characterization can work wonders. It's a fact.
The great thing is how the script writer and the director has beautifully shot Mumbai in the 1913. This year on May 3, Hindi cinema will celebrate 99 years. We have come a long way and new directors with brand new ideas are giving a fresh leash of life to the creative art of story-telling and film-making. For some, Dada saheb was a lunatic. People thought he has gone nuts with moving picture. He never lost heart and went on to fulfil his dreams. I was amazed to see two my friends acting in Harishchandrachi Factory, Siddharth aka Tootoo and Astad who is a Marathi actor.
Good night.

Can women and men be friends?

Men and women can be friends. It's a statement I'm making and not just a plain statement matter-of-factly. I strongly believe that men and women can be friends and I know that my male counterparts will vehemently oppose this view. Very few men would agree with me and perhaps some women may not express pleasure at this fact of life.
I knew some guys and acquaintances who will say that men and women can only mate, date and have sex. Well, then where you put your respective Rakhi brothers and sisters? Quizz them on the latter fact, they have no answer and will make a joke out of it. The truth is that those people never had a proper exposure to women and they never had good female friends. Honestly speaking, they have been brought up with a limited mindset where they can't look beyond the border of their conservative mindsets. No wonder we guys are referred to MCP. No seriously?! Don't you think so guys.
I have been blessed to have soo many wonderful, beautiful and intelligent female friends who played an important part in my beautiful life. They have been a fellow traveler in quest for self-growth and as the trained stopped, they got down and new ones hopped on. Some of them are not in touch but many of them are. They are wonderful human beings. I strongly believe that there is 'Lakshman-Rekha' that need to be drawn and that some lines should not be crossed. Once, the lines are crossed, the friendship goes 'kaput'. The worst tragedy happens when a beautiful relationship..read strong bond of friendship between a boy and a gal is destroyed.
Of course, there are some exceptions to the rule. At some point, there is bound to be attraction if you spend lotsa times with a friend, be it going together for movies,smsing each other. If there is a mutual consent and belief that you can carry the relationship further and that the friendship will remain intact, go ahead. But, there is a high probability that the equation will not be unaltered since you will look at each other less as friends but more as lovers. Where do you go from here? Before popping the question, make sure that he or she will ignore you and it might as well happen, that the two best friends will stop communicating with each other. A case of a friendship gone sour. I have been lucky when a proposed a friend, she understood my feeling for her. The proposition was rejected outright, But, the bond of friendship grew stronger with time.
Great friendship are those that withstood the test of times. With the flick of time, both of you will move in different directions in life and certain priorities will gain mileage and it is bound that the friendship will not remain intact. But, as you look back, you will be proud that your relationship proved the world wrong and man and women can indeed be friends. Perhaps, as you meet one day over a cup of coffee, you will have a good laugh as you choose to rebel against the ways of the world. If the friendship remains despite you guys are in a relationship and if your partners can understand your friendship, it will be a great victory.
Very few movies have been able to successfully depict the friendship between a man and a woman without sensual connotation. I just came out of Ek Main Aur Ek Tu (EMAET) today and I have a feeling that to a certain extent, it was able to depict friendship between a man and a woman. But, only partially.

Things to do in 2012

There  is one brand new Nostradamus avatar who is out to predict the end of the world in end 2012. Not that I believe this fucked-up bullshit but for a second, let's imagine that it gonna happen for real. Guys and gals, the first 2 months in 2012 are gonna end very soon. So what's the plans for the year?
Let's start strong and make the year eventful. It's high time to renew the energy and boost our own's existence and and here are my ideas to stay strong this year.

Power inner circle
Friends represent the building blocks of our life and personality. As one wise mortal has beautifully put it, Show me your friends and I will tell you who you are. For sure, I believe it's important to strengthen the bonds with existing friends who are a part of our lives. Missing a friend, call him or her and make a trip to spend some quality time with them and I'm sure there are lots to discover about each other and share. They are the mirror to empower us and ignite the desire to pursue our passion and creative urge.
Likewise, it's high time to chuck off those so-called friends who only ignites sorrow, negativity and slug in your life. Golden rule of 2012: Strictly exercise your discretion as whom you allow in your life.

Brand new look
It's high time to have  revamped and brand new look. Remember, we are a product and it's time to re-invent ourselves. We do sell our image. It's time for self-indulgence. I already started during my holidays and I indulged in cool shirts, jeans, trousers, tee and my funky red and black glasses. Time to change my hair stylist and sport a brand new look. An image make over shall see the light of the day in few days. Appearance does matter and who knows I might be lucky with the chicks..yeah, been single and would love to be in a relationship.

Vacation Plan
Just came from a vacation which was awesome, in particular in Goa. The purpose of our job is to give us happiness and at the year end, we all deserve some harmless fun.Common sense tells us that we must plan our vacations in advance and we should never compromise on vacations. I'm planning to start my savings and at the year end to generate at least 50,000 k. I gonna sacrifice stuffs and save at least 5,000 k every month. I'm planning for Dubai, Delhi, Jhammu N Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh and Gujurat this year.

Invest wise
Being young should not be an excuse to not save money. 2012 is high time to target some interesting investments. I'm planning to go for an insurance and there are so many companies who offer interesting packages. Who knows? We need some fillers for vacation, buying a home or getting the new Swift or Honda Jazz. Or, some unforeseen surgery?
Money is quite tricky and no matter how much we have is clearly not enough. Go for Gold. Investing in Gold is a good option and as the market for gold is booming in India. Jump on the train.

Other ideas
1. Follow a grooming course
There are many courses on grooming, personality and passion offered by acclaimed gurus like Robin Sharma

2. Follow your passion
I just got a brand new lap top and this time, I am starting with my script and my novel. I dunno how long it will take but I am climbing the small steps. Time to live one's dreams and rather than accepting society's dos and don't.

3. Be Positive about life
The best way to  enhance your self-confidence is to be positive and believe in yourself. I Can Do It Mantra and nothing shall stop me. Passion, Creativity and Dreamer.

4. Learn Driving
It applies to me. It's a shame that I don't know how to drive. Time to go on wheels, baby.

5. Go for some interesting course
It's no excuse that when you work, you can't study. Go for some external course and as you earn, you learn. I'm planning for a masters in Mass Comm and it's time for some mental masturbation. I don''t wanna rot and 2012 is well the time to pursue knowledge and in that way, you won't lose time.

6. Keeping fit
If you haven't toned up for the chiselled, sexy body, what are you waiting for? It keeps the mind fresh and the regular work out will only indulge you in the morning to flare up the passion. Okies, I'll be honest. I started and stopped. But, coming April, I gonna hit the gym.

Keep Rocking and make 2012 like cherry.

Dreams and the loose strings

Dreams are made of imagination.
It is a lot like love.
We dream to fall in love and we end up falling in love.
They are often the loose strings of the musical instruments.
The greatest dreamers are those crazy beings whose joy knows no boundaries.
Dreamers are the craziest lot who refuses to be bugged by society's standards.
We believe we can.
There can't be a better reason to dream.
We dream coz we dare to think, we dare to believe in ourselves and have the belief that we can turn our dreams into reality.
In our way, we may encounter many morons who will pull us down.
We just need to smile at them.
It's our way of telling them how idiotic and sore losers they are.
We dare to think differently.
That's why we will reach the top and they will not.
It's our attitude that matters not theirs.
Else, we would be in their places reflecting on the theory of impossible.
Dreamers are no unproven theorems, rather winners.
Dreams may take a hell' long time to turn into reality.
At the end of the day, dreams will always triumph.
We need to constantly challenging ourselves.
Practice this exercise to remind ourselves that we dared to dream.
Always dream big.
It's a lot like love.
Many great love stories are the by-products of dreams.
Keep the faith.

Good Morning.
Love

Happy Valentine Day

Sitting alone in my room enjoying Valentine Day, while the world are enjoying the special day with the special someone.
Yet! I choose to be happy and enjoying every single moment of V-day.
As I say cheers to the day with my glass of red wine.
Valentine was fantabulous.
How I wish everyday was a Valentine Day.
Treating myself to V-Day.
Tomorrow will be a new day.
2013 will be a new V-Day as I shall kiss and cuddle that special someone.


That how I spent my valentine Day. First, I got a release from work at 8 p.m and was able to celebrate V-Day..with myself. I was happy and indulged myself with a glass of classy French red wine. Listened to some old romantic songs and that was my Valentine treat..to myself.
Why can't we celebrate V-day with oneself? I mean, why not? Fine, if there is nobody in your life, why crib. I believe that there is nothing wrong in being alone, without a partner. If something happens, that's great and if it doesn't there is no need to force a relationship and be unhappy.
I had forgotten how to live life but not anymore. I have decided to enjoy every moment of life since I won't get back the moment that just elapsed. Life is too beautiful to be wasted...u know why? Zindagi Na Milega Dobara.
Happy Valentine Day. Hope yours was awesome.
Spread love and make every day a Valentine celebration

Goa-second and final part

Front view of Our Lady Immaculate Conception Church

Arnav proudly showing his prized possession, the crab

Enjoying the view on Jan 2 at Vagator beach

Having a beer with captain Doshara

Goa:
January 2:
Woke up earlier than usual,more precisely at 7.30 a.m. I ordered a cup of tea and started to wash some of my clothes. I went down at the lobby to inquire about places to visit downstairs and the hotel manager advised me to book Paulo Travel and have a dekho of Goa. The nice guy called the bus and it reached Bello Horozonte, the hotel where I'm staying. Not a bad deal as it cost me 200 bucks.
The guide in the bus was a weird character enter Sanjay....the phenomenon of the day..most welcome to Goa..ladies and gentlemen..I advise you to note down my number....but,my phone is not working since it fell down in the morning. Kahan, kahan se aate hai log,guide bane..This sicko was irritating throughout the whole journey in Goa.
We started at the Aguada lake which houses the famous jail and the bungalow owned by diamond merchant Jimmy Kardeka where the Sanjay Dutt-Govinda's starrer Haseena Maan Jayegi was shot. We had a damned fun boat ride where the guy driving the boat showed us several landmarks. We were urged to wear the lifeboat jacket since the law is very strict in Goa about security. It was a pretty exciting journey and at times, it sounded pretty scary. There were some Gujerati families who threw a coin in the lake so as to protect us from any untoward incident. The main attraction of the lake ride are the dolphins whose heads we can barely see. Everybody were pointing at the Dolphins but I barely managed to see them. One had to pay attention to catch a glimpse of Dolphins and finally I managed to see a few of them. It was an amazing ride and that too for 200 bucks. From the boat ride, one can also see the huge Goa jail and I actually pity those prisoners who can't even catch  a glimpse of the beautiful lake despite being surrounded by it.
A few kilometres before one reaches the Aguada lake, one can see the huge mansion of Vijay Mallya. Next stop: Aguada fort where Dil Chahta hai was shot. One can see the fort where Amir, Akshaye an
and Saif were sitting. What an amazing sight!
The only irritating factor was the dumb guy who had to say something during the journey. We had good fun at his expense, me together with a young dude whom was sitting next to me, Arnav. A young lad who must be around 12 and we became friends. We actually made so much fun of this idiot.
Anjuna beach was a beautiful beach and the perhaps the less crowded in Goa. Me and my young friend, together with his parents loved the beach. There were beautiful chicks there. A clean beach where I could have spend the rest of my life there. Whenever, I get the moolah, Goa would be a safe investment bet. Unfortunately,we had hardly 30 minutes at Anjuna and we headed towards Vagator. I mean it's nice. To gone down at the beach, one has to climb steep steps, up and down and which can be pretty tiring. Would love to do it,but we had such fixed bus timing. Aunty (Arnav's mom) clicked some pics of me and his son together. I must say, both uncle and aunty are very sweet beings. It's a wow! Meeting such wonderful people during the trip s what make a journey so beautiful and meaningful.
At around 2 p.m, we reached Calangute beach which I didn't like at all. This place was so damn crowded with people and walking to the beach was like overcoming a bundle of human mass. Shoes in hands, we walked in the waters and facing the waves. I made the mistake of wearing my Flying Machine jeans which was soaked, despite rolling it up till my knees. But, it was worth the fun. Life is beautiful and one should enjoy every single moment. Arnab picked a bottle of water lying on the beach and wanted to catch a crab which he did. Despite his parents trying to cajole him to let the poor thing go, he stick to it. Damn fun! The bus left Calangute beach which was the last stop for us and in about one hour we reached Miramar. I bid farewell to uncle, aunty and Arnav, promising to keep in touch. Good time spent with fellow travellers and which will remain forever etched in my memory.

January 3
This is my third night in Goa and fourth day. I was supposed to meet a buddy, Kaku but for some reason or another, we couldn't. I took the local bus and went to click some pictures in the city. I dropped at Ferry stop and watched the beautiful casino ship. Must say at night it gives an amazing view but it's the day,nothing like the sight at night. I asked for direction and went towards Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church. It is a huge church and one has to climb the stairs to reach there. Sadly, the church was closed in the morning and it will only open in the afternoon. Bad luck!!!! Well, what does one make of it? Destiny....destiny...
After clicking some snaps, I met some college kids who are from Pune and who like me are on a visit. There was Geetesh, a CA student and his pals. They invited me to join them on bike and we were actually thinking of places to visit in Pune. So, we set on bike and after asking some  people about the locations, we decided to hunt for the science centre. We made rounds,lost  our way and asked some locals. Finally, we reached Goa science centre at Miramar. It sounded so much like a school outing.
 After exploring the surrounding where we clicked some pictures with the statues of elephants, sharks we stepped inside. Now, this one so much fun and one can see various displays of life and nature-it's amazing how our earth, electricity, waves are generated. It was educational but in good fun. How, we human beings take life for granted.Then,there is the display of our average Dukhiram and Sukhram..Go closer, its Sukhiram and move away it's Dukhiram. I particularly loved the dark room where you perform a singing or dancing act and the camera on the outside view captures your shadow. I realized that life is soo beautiful and we gotta live to the fullest.
Realizing that time was moving, I bid farewell to the guys since I got to take the bus back to Pune. I headed to Miramar beach and took a quick lunch before reaching my hotel, Bello Horizonte. Had a quick shower, did the packing and at around 5.30 headed towards Panjim in the local bus. That was my last trip in the crowded bus and stood throughout the journey.
On my way, I bought a fenny bottle and cashewnuts which are Goa specialties and at 8 p.m, I boarded the Paulo Travel sleeper coach and bid my farewell to Goa. I promised to visit again. Taa-taa Goa. The next morning I woke up in Pune at 4.30 in Pune. I didn't really slept in the bus since it was a sleeper coach which I shared with a stranger.
Visiting Goa is a must.

Goa (Part 1)

On top, decorations at the wedding; (Below) Me at Palolem beach on new year

Goa:  31st December/ 1st January, 2010
Reached Goa at around 10 on new year eve. Well, it's the last day of 2011 and the midnight clock seems to be tickling on the heat in Goa. On the way, the bus broke down several times and finally reaching Goa exudes a sense of relief. After undergoing a series of travails and untoward circumstances, the passengers alighted at Panjim station and we could breathe for reaching at least.
First time in Goa and that too on 31st December. Well, what does it hold as one arrives at the bus station at Panjim? It was damn humid and I was sweating like hell. It's quite a departure from the cold prevailing in Pune. One can see bikers waiting to ferry passengers to various parts of Goa. Time to find a hotel to stay in Goa. I am accosted by one of the touts who told me that today I won't seal a room for less than 4,000 bucks. No way, I am going shed out such a huge amount. It's new year. So what? Time to light a cigarette and think of possibilities in Goa.It reminds me that a dear friend of mine, Dass babu gave me a phone number for staying arrangement. I called Khan saab who owns the place. He told me that the room will cost 2000 bucks but since I'm a friend of captain Doshara, another wonderful guy which I gonna meet there, he'll charge me 500 bucks less. Bingo! He told me that to get there it will take me some 2 hours which it did.
I inquire as to how to reach Canacona, Palolem beach which is 70 km away from Panaji and to get there, one need to change two buses.First, one need to go to Margao bus station and I traveled for more than one hour. I dozed off in the bus since I traveled for 14 hours from Pune to Goa. Actually, it took me more than one hour to reach Margao. From there, you need to take a bus to Canacona. Mind you, boss. Traveling in the local bus is like getting caught in the war zone. It is a minibus which keep on taking passengers from every point and getting out of the bus is such a tough task. Finally, I reached Canacona in another 90 minutes, all tired. Now, the main task is to reach Palolem.The resort Ojas residency is situated near a masjid. I finally got a motorbike who ferries passengers from one point to another. He charged 30 bucks which is fair enough.
I met captain Doshera who was cooking food in the kitchen. Bang on! He instantly recognized me and we had some nice Indian food which he prepared. Before that, we had tea. I realized that I forgot to bring a pair of short for the journey and went for a walk near the beach and got one for 200 bucks. I slept for a while. After I woke up, I had some beer and was chatting with captain and Khan saab. The latter who is a native of Mumbai was telling us how he had grown, watching movie stars and they would come for shooting near his locality. Later, we went for a walk at Palolem beach during the night. It was dark and the short cut way that we took were full of impediments. As you go down the alley inhabited by trees, heavy stones you have to exercise caution or else you may injure yourself heavily. Finally we reached the spot, guided by the tiny light on the cellphone.
The atmosphere on the beach is lively with foreign tourists having a big party on the beach. One can see the shacks, restaurants populated by customers coupled with blazing music. New Year has truly arrived. The amazing fireworks is simply something to die for. Palolem is soo peaceful that you may just crash on the beach. On our way back, Captain visited one of his acquaintance, a doctor from Pune who owns a resort at Palolem beach. He invited us for a drink or two. We met an elderly Rajasthani couple. The guy is a businessman and the wife hails from Nagpur, our own Maharashtra. Must say, we had a stimulating conversation on the economic progress made by Sri Lanka, shares on the stock exchange, Indo-Pak conflict and corruption. Certainly. 31st December was worth. 
Nah! I dint stay awake till midnight coz I was so fucking tired. I dozed off in the room happy not be sloshed. Yeah! For the first time in my life I wasn't drunked. I was on a different trip altogether. I didn't go to Goa for sex, getting sloshed or partying heavily. I wanted peace and hence my choice of staying at Palolem Period.
Woke up on 1st January 2012 in Goa and attended the phone messages and wished back pals and mates. I took a walk in the village surrounded the beach. I just love the simple life of locals in the southern part of Goa. I shot the small rural life on my modest camera and the huts are a sheer delight to one's eyes. Trust me on that. Went for a walk at around 9 a.m at Palolem beach and yet again, my modest camera was at work. It is a beautiful day and I wasn't gonna miss it for anything on earth. I realized that life is beautiful. Decide to experience the other part of the city and in the afternoon I set off to Panaji.
I boarded the jam-packed local bus towards Margao but unfortunately the bus broke down in the middle of the road. The passengers got down in the country side surrounded by coconut trees on both sides of the road. We could easily have gone for a picnic. Unfortunately, the second bus took a very long time to come. I was going with the flow and not once, I got pissed off. Surprisingly, there was no anger in me on the first day of the year despite waiting for two hours. Finally, the bus and managed to get a seat, not before waiting for fellow travelers to get down. Got a message from Miss M. whose best friend was getting married, Hey try n come for d wedding receptn if u ca..starts from ..Penha de franca hall, brittona....Its the wedding of the best friend which I soo wanted to attend since I've never attended a catholic wedding. I was wondering whether I'll reach the venue in time and that too in a new city where I'm one day old.
Finally, reached Madgaon rushed ticketing window to buy the bus ticket to Panjim where there was a huge queue. I was wondering here it goes for another hour travel to Panjim. Thankfully, reached Panjim station in some 40 minutes and boarded a bike who drove me to Miramar to check in a hotel. God was on my side. I checked in a single room at Belo Horozonte for 1000 bucks which is not bad since its 1st January. After ordering a cuppa chai, I took a shower and arranged for a car who will take me to the venue which is not very far. The car charged me 600 bucks which is quite expensive. But, I didn't care since I was living life in Goa. Zindagi Na Milega Dobara....Live life to the fullest.
As I travelled in the car, I saw the ferry stop, casinos which are sheer delight to travelers.Hmm! Lucky Goans! The city is well connected with state of art road infrastructural facilities. In one glance, Goa is a well-planned city coupled with beautiful churches, Forts and wonderful beaches. One must be in Goa every two years at least. It's a holiday completely worth. It's such a wonderful break.
I reached the wedding reception as a bib bulayi baraati..oops is it so???? I wasn't invited by the groom and came from the girl's side. I was welcomed by Miss M who was by the way looking very pretty in her dress and her stole,of course...lol. I was introduced to some uncle and aunties at the venue who are very nice people by the way. 
The bride beautifully dressed in the traditional christian attire by the side of the groom in his black suit. As the guests stood to greet them, they performed a dance for the guests. This is one of the most beautiful part of the wedding which I guess is part of the christian wedding.The hall was nicely decorated with the wedding cake, balloons and the design laid on the wedding card was re-created on the roof of the hall. It's a beautiful heart and atop was two lil birdies pecking. Wow! How a nice card design was transformed into such a beautiful object.
The best was yet to come!!! There was band who performed at the wedding and the compere was amazing as the guests were treated to beautiful Goan music and dance. I feel ashamed of not knowing the basic dance movements. But, then there was a saviour in the name of Ryan who propelled me to dance and since there were no awkwardness and we gyrated to the dance numbers. Yeah, I danced to my favourite chartbuster of 2011, Chamak Challo..voila! Met some damn cool guys in the party,. And, the girls were very pretty as well. The food was amazing and for some reason or another, I went for veg..that too me..a complete Ghas Phoos (Non veggie obsessed). Yeah, I didn't take the slightest drop of alcohol. 2012, the year of change dunno!!
As the party drew to an end, called the hotel driver who for some reason or another, didn't want to come and pick me up. One of the dudes gave me a lift to the hotel. It was an amazing new year at Goa.Life is beautiful.


PS: 
I took three days to put this post. Watch out for the second part in Goa

Happy New year 2012

Whoa! I'm here after more than one month. That too last year. Wish you all a very Happy New Year 2012. The year that was ended with a bang and 2012 kicked off very well. What one can ask better than that. I woke up in Goa and without suffering from hangover. Yes! Indeed! The reasonable me decided that New Year can be celebrated without gulping alcohol down the throat and that too in Goa. My holidays were awesome as I was in maximum city, Mumbai for 4 days or so and went to my home town Pune where I was based and stayed in Goa from December 31 to Jan 3. I made the most of the holidays. I fully deserve it after slogging for one and a half years. Now, I'm back to reality and the famous deadlines at work. Decided to relocate back to either Pune or Mumbai, though Pune will be the first choice. But, that will take one and a half years to two to happen. If I don't include this year, it means that one more year and I shall embrace life in Pune/Mumbai. That's where my life and quotient of happiness lies.
Suffered a minor set back on Saturday..dunno whether one should call it minor but it was a major overhaul. I parted with one tooth since it went into the decayed state. The other one in the upper part of the mouth was saved but the second one..well..it was not meant to be. The dentist which happens to be my cousin tried to remove it the normal way but it broke inside..He was like..I injected anesthesia to relieve the pain but can't help it now and you have to bear the pain. Pain! Man! It was terrible.I just closed my eyes as the dentist struggled to remove the parts of the decayed tooth. It was terrible and was thinking of first day in college, my professor, friends and the first lecture. I was like when the madness is ever gonna get over.
At one moment, the dentist held my head tightly and tried to remove the tooth while my mouth has become the war zone. Hell! It's my mouth. Finally, it got over after one hour. Poor dentist was seating heavily while I bore the pain for one hour.  Tooth surgery can be very traumatic and it was. Later, he told me that the tooth had to be extracted the hard way as the root of a tree be removed.
I spent the whole day replacing the cotton paid since the upper and lower part of teeth are touching each other and it damn irritating. I'm still in the healing process and I've been able to cut on smoke. Still, shouldn't smoke at all but working towards. Been on pills for days and here it is. The damage is done and no cribbing bout it.
Lesson learned: There are some sensitive areas where the toothbrush doesn't forcibly go and we need to visit the dentist every 6 months for clean-up. Better, bear some minor pain rather facing the trauma of a surgery. I learned my lesson.
Now,let's move on to better things as I look forward to a great year ahead. It started well and shall be a great one. Watch out the post on Goa.
Cheers
Have a great N awesome year 2012

100 and beyond

Woohoo! Tis the 131st post. The blog celebrated one year on November 20, 2010 and this should have been posted at that time only. Apologies, it escaped the A-Z of my mind and it's coming after one year and one month.It couldn't have come at a better day and time. Yesterday..read a few hours back I wrapped this year's work and I am officially on holiday. What a relief! One cannot express the feeling that you will no longer run under stress to meet deadlines or rush to office early. What better time to enjoy the festive season.
When I started the blog I didn't expect it to gain visibility so fast and today I can proudly say that there are visitors from all over the world. It is an Indian blog and is written with reference to India and very often you will see stories with a strong reference to Mumbai and Pune. It is jazzy, youthful and targeted at the young generation, teenagers, young adults and any one who wanna feel youthful and uber cool. You might be a 60-year-old and if you are young inside, that's the place for you. Today when I check the traffic I am delighted to see that there are visitors not only from India but also from US of A, UK, Japan, Singapore, Turkey, Mauritius and many more. It feels nice. I extend my warmest gratitude to Sneha who commented on and off on the space as well as many others who checked the blog but haven't commented. Till now. Guys ans gals! What are you waiting for? There is also Asha and another follower. Thank you, people!
Ok, I wanna be honest on this space. For more than one year, there are some 600 viewers and still counting. True, it's not a three digit or four digit figure but any start is a good start and therefore slowly but surely I shall arrive. Aim was to have some 100 posts but it went beyond them. More important is the love received on this space and that I can express my creative freedom without any form of hindrance. It's icing on the cake.Looking forward to welcome more and more followers and let's make blog spot one big family. The world is truly a global village.
This post makes immense sense as in less than 24 hours I gotta catch a flight to Dubai and then to Mumbai, my adopted home. Friday, I shall be at home in Mumbai. I shall call it homecoming as I shall visit home after 3 years. Could you believe that? Indeed, it's true and time to do lotsa catch up with friends, teachers and visit my alma mater, the one and only Fergusson College. It's holiday times and finally I will be in Goa for new year. It's a holiday I badly needed and was contemplating for holiday since a helluva long time.
I shall not blog for a very long time since I will be busy enjoying moi holiday but I should be here on and off giving updates on my travel. Now time for some light reading and crash. Gotta catch a flight tomorrow.
A big thank you and big hug to blog dosts.
Merry X-mas and Happy New year 2012.
M off for a very long time.
Love

2011, the year in review

Just how I was complaining how the year started slowly and whether it's gonna end in beauty and prose. Here, we are at the end of 2011. Indeed, it started at a slow patch and how much I vented on the blog. It's been a great year professionally, set backs there were but not much. 2011 was quite a departure from 2010 and I wonder how things changed positively for my own state of being. The setbacks gradually waned away towards the end of June and I am indeed finishing 2011 in beauty and stepping in the new golden era,2012 in beauty. Two days of work for 2011 and as from 20, holidays and Mumbai, Pune, Lavasa and Goa, here I come.
January hit on a slow note and quite badly as I had a conflict with one of my relative. He is a bloody loser and was acting so stupid perhaps because he has money and gave the impression of being quite arrogant on that matter. I choose to ignore him and could have replied to him. Neways! He's a cheapo. On the professional front, I was struggling and was counting till June so that I finish one year at work. I was planning to leave after that. However, things took a u-turn and drastically improved for me. Relations and bonds were not only strengthened but cemented after that gestation period. The relationship with my boss improved and all of a sudden I was on the upswing. Conflicts lessened. The icing on the cake: I embraced a new challenge and ventured into reported and towards the year end I turned into a film critic and a full-fledged reporter. It was a large improvement and suddenly, I was enjoying my job. From sub-editor to report, I must admit that I find the desk job quite boring. However, I found true fulfilment as a news reporter and must admit that credit goes to boss who not only pushed me but encouraged me in what she thinks I am good at. She tapped the potential in me. It's been a new challenge and learned so much in the media business. Finally, I am happy doing my job. It shot up my self-confidence and gave me the upper hand.
I must admit that prior to that I was actually counting days till June arrives. I am happy that I took the decision to stay on the job. It was a great decision. On the personal side, I remained and stayed single. Not a happy scene though coz I am looking and longing for a relationship. Hmm! Let's hope for a change as 2011 comes to an end and as we usher in 2012. I am hopeful coz 13 days remains and the table may turn in my favour. One brownie point: I struggled to reduce smoking and so far successfully failed to do so. Once I was able to reduce smoking but in general, it was such a disaster. Better luck next time!! Guess, I am not psychologically prepared.
Read lotsa stuffs and books like Twilight, 40 rules of Love, Time's Traveller's Wife, Grisham, Harry Potter as well as self-help books such as Stephen Covey's 7 rules of Highly Effective People made my joy. Wrote some short stories which was clearly not enough and need to stick myself to the plans of writing. I need to put some discipline in my life.This is what is lacking in life.

new kid on the block celebrated one year on November 20  and stay tune and a brand new post will be exclusive devoted to the post which has more than 100 posts, some comments and around 600 views. Not bad as the slow and steady wins the race.
Finally, I will be able to afford holidays and indeed my year end leave was approved. I will go back to my home town, Pune and my adopted hometown Mumbai and will visit Lavasa, Goa and perhaps Gujerat. In less than 72 hours I will be officially on holidays as I look set to board Emirates plane where I will stop at Dubai airport for three hours before landing in the city that never sleeps Mumbai on Wednesday. Simply Mumbai!!!! What better way to end the year and kick start 2012 in beauty and style. I took the decision to travel out of the blue and stick to it. There was nothing on earth that could have stopped me and thank the Great Almighty for that. A prayer that was never unheard and fulfilled.I am already making plans for 2014 world cup in Brazil and have every reason to save and manage my money. I will drop and shop towards the year end as 2012 will have very less scope for shopping. See! I gotta save my money for world cup 2014. I look forward for a great career in 2012 and where I shall cross the seas and oceans so that I am back home.
Have a great year end 2011 and a rocking start to 2012.
Will update on travel.

"And when you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it."
Love

Dating, marrying......a divorcee

We live in dangerous times. It’s even worse when men are bound by in-built prejudices and one class of people who face their wrath are divorcees. I am not a divorcee and I am not married for that matter. What pains me is how some self-claimed moralists proclaim that you should never marry a divorcee. I mean this is not only revolting but smacks of extremism and prejudice.

I don’t see any problem dating or even marrying a divorcee if we are compatible and fall in love with each other. In today’s time there is no guarantee for marriage and differences crop up among couples. Fine relationship may not have worked out in the first instance but that doesn’t mean that it won’t work out you manage to find your soul mate who understand you.

Now the question is should you take a plunge: My take is why not and make sure to make your partner understand your priorities. If you have kids, will he or she be interested to take care of them and understand that the kids form part of your life. The partner must also speak to his or her parents and make them understand that he loves you and it is him and him only who has to stay with you and not them. If they are not willing to accept the matter and if he really loves you then you guys should move on in a new apartment.

Problem may arise if the partner has had a bad marriage experience may have doubts in his or her heads. Insecurity is often natural in a relationship. When the guy or girl gets late at work, the other partner may have doubts in his or head. If the jealousy pang continues it may lead to friction in the relationship. The best thing is that you guys need to sit and talk of the possible worst scenario that may arise in a relationship. You can play a game where both of you can act in an imaginary conflict and do the exercise often. This will help you guys to better face the crisis that may arise in the relationship. It would be better to do the act before marriage.

If it comes to plain dating, remember that it’s your life and there is nothing wrong to date a divorced woman. Make your friends understand that just like you guys are looking out for harmless date so is your lady love. We are all human beings and there is nothing wrong in dating someone who had faced a bad and turbulent relationship. While dating a divorcee though we should be a bit cautious and make sure that we don’t make some jokes that may hurt your women.

However, the bottom line is just be yourself and be adventurous with your woman. She shouldn’t be made to feel that because she is divorcee you are restraining yourself. Rather make her feel as if she’s in her 18s. In fact make some silly, immature jokes and during the sex act, play naughty and tease her. As a lover, you must make her feel so sexually desirable so that she will feel that the past is behind her. However, never badmouth her ex coz no matter how much she may hate her ex she may feel that the joke is being directed at her choice of partner. Never ever do that and it’s an absolute no-no coz a relationship with someone who has been past a break-up is quite delicate.

 Marrying or dating a divorcee is indeed a tough proposition in the same way as marrying someone from a different community.There is the unfair labeling like second hair merchandise which is not only revolting but shocking. There are some people who are still to come to terms with their 70s mindset. But, whenever such problems arise you should either placate them or gently put them off by telling them to mind their own business. As it is you don't owe anything to such kind of people, albeit society and its your life. They don't pay for your credit cards or fund your travel or rent expenses.It takes a while to adjust and the partner should be given her time in the new set up. How about staying in a new place for two to three years? It's good for a change. Where newly married couples can stay in complete freedom far way from the glance of acquaintances, relatives and friends. For such a marriage to succeed, we need space from the moral preachers.

Even if you have fallen in love, are you taking a plunge or dating on an utilitarian basis? One shouldn't go for it because you feel something is missing in your life or you need a partner to look after you. We are living in an equal society where both men and women are equal partners in decision-making process.A partner should not be treated as a a furniture in the house nor as a servant who will cook food, clean the house or arrange your bed or for that matter a 'legitimate fuck'. Every person has his or her own identity and the most important thing is that both spouses should let their individuality flourish. Any relationship based on the utilitarian character is a recipe for failure.

Every relationship is based on trust and dating or staying with a divorcee is a delicate issue. If you have decided to go it, then tread with care and make sure that the building blocks of the relationship is strong so that it last for a long time. The secret: Communication, Trust and Love. What is important is to nurture positive throughts and rejects any kind of societal;s influence be it parents or those moralists who seems to know everything and feel that they have the monopolistic right to decide for others.