Please forgive me...

"Will you marry me.", the words were nothing like I practised in front of the mirror, yet they sounded so wonderful.

"....Oh!Ah...!Yes...yes...yes!!... I will, I will.", she jumped out of her chair and hugged me tightly.

Everyone around us were looking and laughing. Embarrassed yet happy I hugged my darling back. It was unexpected especially for me, who comes from a conservative family. I never thought the girl I met first in 10th standard, then forgotten and again met in college, again to forget & bump-in as my manager, will accept my proposal of marriage, said so abruptly........

***

St.Joseph Senior Secondary School, Shimla (1998-99)

"Anil, you will never pass the 10th standard maths exam if you don't work hard enough. I will write to your parents that you have not taken Maths as fish takes to water. Probably it is better you to take up arts." informed my chocolate-teacher Mrs.Bansal.

She continued, "Also, I have a prodigy in class 12th - Sheetal. She might be willing to save you. As you both are hostelers, it will be possible to supervise some extra class after school for you."

a) I don't remember why exactly Mrs.Bansal was called chocolate-teacher. May-be because she was the sweetest of all the teachers or may-be because of the soft-corner she had for hostelers. God bless her soul; she past last summer and as expected the gathering was from all ages she taught in her 25yrs long career.

b) Sheetal & I met first in school auditorium, which was mainly used during our time as extra-class rooms. Teachers will pick weak students from their sections and ask seniors to help them out; in-return seniors will get extra canteen vouchers or credits in certain subject they are weak in.

I still remember, Sheetal in her white uniform (for summers- for name-sake as shimla is always cold; other dress being gray during winters) and white ribbon complimenting her bouncy pony-tail. She helped me out with all the x & y's I failed to understand in linear algebra and all the different sizes and shapes of trigonometry. Still remember how she used to make it all fun by giving aliases to all the shapes after our different-shaped teachers, like e.g. Mr.Pinto for sphere, considering his pot-belly or Mrs.D'souza for cylinder for her perfect wrapped saree (ofcourse Mrs.Bansal for square as most chocolates are packed in that sizes).

I passed Maths in my 10th standard (can't share the mark sheet; it was stolen by aliens)

***

IIT Roorkee, formely Roorkee University (2001-03)

First year ranging period is the most horrible yet most enjoying time, which launches us in the world as IT Professionals, Doctors, Architects...etc. For me it turned out to be the most challenging time of all. Though my branch was considered to be one of the best aka computers, my liking to it again reminded me of my 10th standard Maths. Back then it was the horrible shapes & x/y equations and here it was the numerous languages along with history and future of tiny little piece of equipment which has run the whole world for the past 30yrs and plans to do so for at least the next 50 (or so what our induction teacher said).

It was my first terms (some stupid way of grading our entry into the elite university, where I had promised myself not to fail). Driven by the divine power of foolishness, I entered the Library with full JOSH. It turned out to be that we need seniors permission to refer library (even my seniors had the divine power of foolishness) and hence I was caught by my seniors, Ashok Kr. Jha (who used to say his ancestors used to be from Jungle - I tend to agree seniors on such things). Oh, sorry I missed, we are supposed to wear all formals, put litres of oil in hair and have the collar button close which identifies us as 1st yrs. It wasn't my charming dumb looks which gave me away as first year. So the punishment was presenting flyers to every single person coming to the library. I still have the flyer in my scrap-book as the first person to enter the library as I was getting the scolding was my saviour, my Sheetal.

"Anil, you are late. I asked you to come earlier. And what are you doing with these flyers?", said my saviour who sensed the knee-deep crap I was in.

"Ah! aaaaah! ummm...Shee...Madam! Sorry." yeah wasn't able to balance the flow of emotions that came gushing into my head (probably eyes, nose and ears too). It was mix of excitement, finding a familiar face so soon (1st yrs and 3rd yrs, especially guys and girls may not meet for a month; it is possible), then can't pretend I know her as she is saving my ass, can't say her name as she happens to be super-senior and a pretty one - so seniors will bury me 6feet deep if I even try to speak the holy name (aka Sheetal).

"Ma'am, you know him? Did you ask him to come to the library?" asked our Jha-junglee (nickname by our batch mates)

"Is it a problem to use the first year in helping out maintain our university library? Isn't that you guys do in all the hostels?" was a very crisp answer by my beautiful (she felt like Jesus Christ coming to rescue).

"Sorry ma'am. It was a misunderstanding." as our jungle walked back leaving with a stare which means, I have a class of explanation tonight.

"So, Mr.Maths, still searching for knowledge? Which branch? So uncle paid bribe for you to join here?" my smiling assassin just continued her fire.

"Yeah, searching for knowledge and much more. Dad accidentally passed some wisdom and I managed compu here (computer sc.)" I said without much ado. "So where did you vanish after our teaching sessions. I never got to thank you how you helped me score some grace & save my butt from my father's belt." I continued.

"Yeah, my father got transferred in the middle of 12th standard and he wanted me to finish it under his supervision. I said yes and so I shifted. It was all in a hurry." she explained, though at that very moment I saw was how beautiful she has become. From a girl in school skirt with pony tail and ribbons, she transformed into amazingly beautiful lady with waist length hair, square specs hiding the eye-shadow, chubby-bubbly figure in a sweat-shirt top with sky blue jean, explicitly enhancing her curves.

"So you got smart and managed to get here. Good, at least you will not be a Maths teacher in some school." she said, still picking on my ability of how I appreciated Tennis over certain ghostly linear equations.

"Yeah I guess, I did." trying to end the past in search of another tomorrow.

Evening strolls after classes, to canteen eating changes to time-out breaks during hectic exams schedule. She being my senior, helped me out in number of times. The subjects were mostly theories and she had a habit of converting every boring subject into fairy-tales or kinder garden-stories. I have never seen someone writing an algorithm out of a story where every variable is a character and ever crisp logic an event in these characters life. I on the other hand was supposed to look after her project report completion (giving ride on my bike and getting then printed) and reviewing some of the code as I started to like computer programming.

In all these time spent together not once did she was romantic or showed interest in my personal life. Closest she came to know about my personal likings was the ability to win tennis games. She cheered my every point and hooted the opponent (who happened to be her batch mate & lab partner).

A very reserved person by nature when it comes to personal life, Sheetal shared very less about her family and even during summer breaks she would stay back in college for extra course or self-study. Something which over a period of time I learnt not because she wanted it to share with me, but it made her so weak sometimes that few tears and even fewer words made me know her world.

The last two years of college turned out to be boring. She joined MNC being campus placed and moved to Bangalore, while I was left to work hard on my assignments and projects and what not. E-mailing & phone calls were infrequent as my profs were killing me and so were her managers. Once a month she will write letter where the tear-droplets will let me know that the family tragedies hasn't changed a bit. Last six months, we lost touch...

I passed and got placed into MNC and was posted to Bangalore. Tried to find her from all possible ways, but as she traveled to client side and her habit of not being social made it even more hard.

***

SAP Labs Bangalore (2007)

"Welcome to our company Mr.Anil. You will have you induction for the whole week and henceforth you will join your project as lead specialist." were the words of Mr.Vikram Kumar, senior-HR recruiting manager.

Actually all inductions are a way to put employee at comfort, that he will have the complete infrastructure available 24/7, later only to realize how inefficient sometime the system is, where the a.c. wont work or they will close the lights on you even though you are working for 10hrs and counting. As for work, it is something one builds with his own capabilities (this doesn't come with any induction and sometimes doesn't come with experience - hoping we are born with it).

"Mr. Anil...Anil...Ah! Here you are, D5, go meet Mr.Yagnesh. This will be the big building at the back of the campus. He is VP for your area. Also known as YY. He will take you forward introducing you to your manager", informed the desk-clerk.

"May I come in", I asked as I stepped in YY's room. The discussion was short, defining our aims and talking about work culture and ethics (okay, I am being nice, generally these things in any company is boring. If I had no ethic, they wouldn't have picked me).

"Anil, you will be working with Ms.Sheetal. She is Manager of your area, recently promoted and a prodigy. You will learn and enjoy working with her." the words sounded so similar and only one person with that name can be so impressive and to add still a Miss.

"Hi, Sheetal. I prayed for cool team but I guess my sins have catch up with me. Now I should expect far more sleepless nights than what I lived during colleges. My prodigy-returns to haunt me yet again." I shocked her when I jumped right in front of Sheetal.

"Anil? What a pleasant surprise! Where have you been? How long it has been? 1yr? more!" my smiling assassin said her eyes glowing and as we got transformed to our school auditorium.

***

Next day (2007 11th May)

"Want to join me for lunch. We can catch up all past year and refresh our old memories. You can tease me about the x&y's and I still have some of your bad-hair-day pictures from school." I invited her, praying she says yes to me and not for the last time in the day.

"Sure why not. But please excuse me if I am not excited on your tennis games." still the teasing kinds.

"Food is good. I guess you come here regularly. They sound like they know you well." I enquired based on the hospitality given by the host to Sheetal.

"We come for team lunch at least once every forth night. So yes, they kind of know us well. They coffee is good here. Lets order latte, what you say?" she asked as we finished with our luncheons.

"Will you marry me.", the words were nothing like I practised in front of the mirror, yet they sounded so wonderful.

"....Oh!Ah...!Yes...yes...yes!!... I will, I will.", she jumped out of her chair and hugged me tightly.

Everyone around us were looking and laughing. Embarrassed yet happy I hugged my darling back. It was unexpected especially for me, who comes from a conservative family. I never thought the girl I met first in 10th standard, then forgotten and again met in college, again to forget & bump-in as my manager, will accept my proposal of marriage, said so abruptly.

"Sheetal, please forgive me. I never thanked you enough for all the helped you gave me throughout my career. Please forgive me for never understanding how difficult it was for you to be part of your family. Please forgive me for being so abrupt asking you all this when you expect it the least. Please forgive me to delay it for so long...Please forgive me." there weren't enough words to explain, how much she meant to me. Chocolate-teacher said it right, she can only be the one save me.

To all my plea for forgiveness Sheetal said, "Anil, had you not asked and forced me to ask you the same question, may be it would have taken me years to forgive you. But you helped me too by just being there. Finding me when I am lost, making me smile when I want a searching for a shoulder to cry. I couldn't have said no to you. It was fate who reminded us how important we are for one another. I don't want to lose you anymore now."

***

I hugged her back and as we sat back sipping our coffee our winks, our smiles, our joys had no boundaries.

Happy Mother's Day!

We never celebrated this day; we never ever bought a gift for her on this day; the one person who endured immense pain from the time she came to know of my existance, we never thank her. I know this is how I have lived my life, never to say THANK YOU MOMMY.

I know there is no excuse for not doing it. Being a boy we never realized it that going to office, making money is not the only job necessary in bring up a child. When we are little, feeding us, changing diapers, bathing us - they are the real task. I bet none of the fathers have to handle the same mess at office that an infant can create for moms.

I called up my mom as soon as I got up this morning. Even though dad had something important to tell me, I forced him to give the phone to mom. I have always been the kid closer to my mom's feeling. No one but I have asked her the question of how her maid is working, how is the kitty parties going on or what dish she has cooked today. It's been years since I lived for more than a week back home and relishing all the great dish she cook for me; but she still knows what I love the most. We had our times together, especially when I used to ride the scooter to purchase vegetables, so she doesn't have to go in rickshaw. Or when I won my first medal and ran into her arms. We had our fights, when I will get mad and not talking to her. She is my first girl friend; she will laugh at all my jokes and she saved me from the bashing I could've received from my dad (though this voilates the definition of a girl friend).

We talked today about where was I born, which house actually. Those days, dad mom were in rented home and they changed so many before my birth. She remember each and every detail till now. Which house I was first brought in; even celebrated my first birthday. Even though now things have changed, she has got used to us living far away, not calling every day (but I am sure she expects a call), her love has never changed. How can it be, she is MOTHER.

One of the most irritating yet funny thing I do with my mom (even now @ 26) is giving her a really really wet kiss on her cheek. When ever I go back, I will find a way to sneak up to her and give a very disgusting but a wet kiss. She will get really annoyed for licking her cheek. She will even try to hit me, thinking I am 4 inturn getting her hand injured. The way she express how we have become towering humans who once slept peacefully in her lap. I miss it and every year die to be there to give her the kiss.

The teachings of my mother are precious to me. I never understood the concept of money being born with silver spoon. But she made sure I always realize right way an expenditure should be done. Yes, it is in the nature to use father as ATMs especially if you have a dad like mine, but she made sure even when we start living on our own, usage of funds are in the right manner. She helped me in number of way to become independent. Kind of a slow starter she always made sure I learn things. I might have given up in lot of things had it not been my mom. She encouraged me so much in sports and giving me right eating habits (though I don't follow it much now) that I have a good big built.

I have been naughty, I have been bad, I have loved her all my life, I miss her and her cooking. I still doesn't want to say thank you because it is too small of a word. A small dedication to my mother on mother's day.

BHAI & I LOVE YOU A LOT MOM.

Yours,

Appu.

God & I

I desired for ocean,
God gave me a sea...
I asked for wings,
God set me free...

I dreamt for friend,
God gave me few...
I wished rainy mornings,
God spread all over dew...

I peaked christmas present,
God gave me reminisce...
I lived Ephemeral love story,
God settled it with a kiss...

A passing thought!

It is a season of Cricket in India. Even though elections and certain evil forms drove cricket out of India to South Africa, the passion has been still remain sky-high.
But this is post has nothing to do the religion we believe in but in the commercialization of this religion. Each time a six is hit, we call it a DLF Maximum, even the fours are brought to us by Hyundia. Comeon, I drive a Hyundia Santro but at no point I can associate it with a cricket four. Or I should try to think it is a car with four tyres (now I am being just as stupid as the ad agency).
We watch all the funny ads of Aamir or SRK or others, associated with Black Beverage but when it comes to drinking it, we all have our own flavours set?
Here is a funny thought... What happens if we start living a life full of ads? Let me explain my goofy thought with some examples -
a) Our mother cooks dinner for us and we all come to the table to have it. She opens the rice bowl and says, "This meal is brought to you by Kohinoor basmati rice".
b) Husband takes wife for shopping and he opens the door for her saying, "Trip to Mall brought to you by Bharat Petroleum - Energizing lives".
I guess we got the picture here pretty clearly.
Ads - which have formed integral part of our daily life sometimes are so stupid. Even the commentrators have starting advertizing every other ball. At the most stupid place they will bring the CITI moment of success? What the hell? Is the CITI group got the team the last wicket...
As Mumbai India slides down against a very weak Kings Punjab XI, I blog this entry wishing MI comes good... And again an irritating commentrator shells out Ads.

PS: No ads or people associated with ads agency were harmed in writing of this blog - message brought to you by Deccan Herald

Walk on the beach...

Two close friends and one lovely sis have recently starting asking questions about blogging. I am no master of this Gen-Y age of Blogging, but as I have articles dated 2 years back, certainly I have formed a style of my own. I sometimes try to be funny, sometimes romantic, sometimes plain-simple and stupid.

Now this time it was discussion on how authors write novel with such frequency and consistency explaining all the idiosyncrasies of every details they mention. Eg: John Grisham depicting a court room or say J.Archer painting the alps (in paths of glory). Certainly not everyone who blogs can be an author. But in a way we are authors to our own mind. When I get down on this business of blogging it is natural, straightforward, full of common written and spoken English-errors. But am I good enough and have my natural instincts severed me well so far. I don't know yet. I might never know or may be I will... So just for test, let me try naturally explaining "Walk on the beach"...By A.Goyal

***

"Rajesh, as I will see the beach for the first time, I might react funny. Please hold me if I get carried away."

"Pari, we just going to a beach. And don't worry. For a change you will act more weired that me. It will be fun for me. And hey if you want to feel comfortable, we can go to marine beach. You might feel comfortable with more crowd around that this empty beach?"

"No it is okay. I think I will be better of with only you than thousands of unknown people."

.....

"Pari, stop throwing water at me. Stop it, you were supposed to react funny. Lets not get too wet or else it will be hard to drive back. Car will be all mess."

"Rajesh, don't be a wuss. Come here. I am gonna fill your shoes with sand and drench your clothes with salty water. Ha ha ha."

"You girl; you are dead now."....

***

Isn't beach considered a place to be romantic. Wouldn't everyone with his/her partner wished to have a trip like this. I wish I get a chance.

My early childhood had us visiting Goa/Bombay beach. But I was too young to remember the finner details. It is like a vague memory. And then trip with friends from office seems so fresh like yesterday. Our office was just 500m from the ECR (east coast road) in Chennai (earlier known as Madras). We were bunch guys-gals fresh passed out of college with some senior old manager folks.

Beach reminds me of the cool breeze even on a hot humid Chennai day, initially the irritating sand; but soon you get in love with the same. The calm ocean sea stretching miles as far as my eyes can see. The waves which rise and fall again, reforming and breaking at the shore endlessly. And arms on the shoulder of a friend (or probably holding hands of the one you want to hold on for ever).

With friends, walk on the beach are seldom. When a rowdy group as our gets the freedom of nature, digging holes to bury people; building castles; running race in ocean splashing water; drinking coconut water and challenges of who throws the remains the farthest.

But walk on the beach, holding hands with a special one, talking about our family and daily life. May be how this break to the beach has relaxed both. Or just sitting in silence watching each other. Leaning on each other shoulder or resting head in each other lap. Sitting on the sand, playing with each other feet. Some little complains about each other. Then we should sing too irrespective of how bad or good we sing (I sing average, so I shall take the risk)

In the end, the walk should also indulge ourself in Indian delicacy of "CHAAT". Even though not being a great fan of it, I still think, company matters and not the food. And somehow girls and CHAAT are inseparable.

Walking back to the car as the night falls and the breeze becomes chiller, we look back once more and a moonlight sea makes us fall in love with it all over again. We know this affair with the sand, ocean, breeze and a walk will continue forever...

Lets create Love...

I had a dream..some poetic thoughts...which lead to this question - Can we create LOVE?

Sometimes amongst the hectic day today activities, we find a small moment where we sit still thinking of different thoughts. Some about childhood, some about college, some about a movie or a book read long time back. But when I had a similar still moment, I thought of one never changing factor in ever changing lives: Love.

Few days back my brother said, "when we become parents the respect for our parents grows immensely." In our childhood, we are so vulnerable and in need of constant attention. As a grownup our parents know the importance of care a baby needs. They know what love is, but when we as an infant start to walk for the first time - did we manage to create love for our parents? Or when we say papa, mama for the first time - did we bring that tear in our parents eyes, filling their heart with warm love?

I grew up in a family of four, mama, daddy, my elder bro and me. Elder brother and I have fought zillions of times only to make our mother go mad & angry. Being considerably weak, I restore to act of hit & run or verbal dual. Though in school, the story was completely inverse. Mother asking my elder bro to keep me safe meant I go around bossing everyone and get away with any trouble. On one of these mafia rounds, unknowingly I tampered with a senior's sport equipment during recess, only to get a tight slap. The mafia clan was scared off, but one of my right hand (as I used to say him in the 90s) reported the incident to my elder brother. All I know that I was called to the principal office next class and my brother was standing with clothes full of dirt. I never realize until the class teacher told me in principal office that my brother has beaten the crap of my senior (he was younger to my brother though). The guy was left with swollen eye or something (if my memory servers me right). Once I narrated the story of being slapped, the principal was happy to see elder brother carrying & looking out for the younger one. We got off with a slap on the wrist. Once out, my brother & I had a naughty laugh and I teased him being the macho (also asking him to join 6th standard Mafia group). He got me a cold drink from canteen and off we went to our respective classes (his being 10th standard). I will never come to know how much joy the Principal had knowing our story, but surely we two (bhai & I) for the first time got connected in a different manner. He being more a sober dude, never showed his love for me in public, yet he managed to create PDA - Public Display of Affection.

College brought us out of the shell of home environment and a sense of independence. Initially it was hard for me to adjust with my home town being in Roorkee and college in Bangalore (nearly 2k+ km separating us). Status of calls used to be every night, with my mom worried every day. Ragging, Food, Hostel are sometimes the most scary words for a mother whose life can be defined by her kids growth. To add to this all, my first year of college where I was supposed to top to join a better branch coincided with the demise of my maternal grand father. It was a hard choice on my parents part to make such a decision, not to call me back from exams. Being a mother's pampered kid, this difficult time brought me close to my father. I had grown into a studious engg. student who will find solution of every problem and if I fail, will go back to his father for solutions. I realize that how much a father wants to be part of his child's education. Be it business, be it his travels which kept him away during our childhood, we both made sure college was one place where he act as my senior. Second semester electrical science paper gave me the nightmares - my brain getting replaced by electrical motor without the necessary oil & some parts missing. My father told me in simple words, you are son of an electrical engg. so quite worrying and start thinking. You will see each component as I saw almost 30 years back. Did we magically created neurons of knowledge? I scored 97 out of 100.

"Marriages are made in heaven" - I am sure the person who said that had a wife like my brother has. In our family of 4, we organized the first arranged marriage of my elder brother. I realized that how much it is hard for girls to wake up one morning and move to a different home. Where everyone is celebrating because it is marriage-time, but for her even the lights in the bedroom is on a different side. Yes she has been preparing from the time engagement happened but still. So soon she manages to know every one in her husband's family like she has been there forever. And in our case, she is only second to my brother to know me so closely. Yes, she was a girl few days back and now a mother of little angel (pari), but she knows how to be my friend and how to comfort me in a space of an year. She is always a call away to listen no matter what I have to say and bring peacefulness with her voice. Yes, I am sure it is love created instantly like maggi.

I was born heavy, really really heavy. More than 5kgs as a very health and tall baby. For my mother it wasn't easy (hell no) & also it wasn't easy for people who wished to pick me. With the Godly mass, I was piled in tones of clothes. But one family member, Mani didi, was never afraid to pick me or play with me. She is my maternal aunt's daughter. An age gap of 9, I have always been her baby bro & she my motherly sister. With different lifestyle and different city life, summer holidays were the only time where all 6 brothers & sisters come together on my mother-side. I used to find pulling her pony tail amazing and rightfully justify the act after been pinched on my chubby cheeks as infant number of times. She sleeps with her eyes open, I sleep cuddled up and holding her hand; She will watch over me when I am creating trouble, I put the blame on her when I get into trouble. And as God fast forward the dial to present, she has two kids of her own and I settled in Bangalore as a s/w pro, we two get sometime to interact with each other on messengers or phone. Each time to realize that distance looks so immaterial, so insignificant because we know each other so well. Distance may creep into our lives changing the way we knew our own, but a call, few silly words and loads of laughter will wipe the slate clean. Yes, everyday together when we laugh on either my acts of stupidity or prettiness of my nephews, we build our bonds stronger with nothing but love...

While writing away images of thoughts into series of words, I realize how incomplete this post will be...I can never share few creations of love that once existed in-around my life and as I am yet to discover my own better half, the ideal way to end it is by saying, Lets continue to create love.

The Bumpy Ride...

College life gives a number of unforgettable moments to all. The food in canteen, boring lectures, crushes, heartbreaks and finding love again... College made us realize how colorful life can be and before we all head into the cycle of life aka jobs, it gives us lot of our FIRSTS. This Ride is one of those collection of "firsts". And so it begins...

9:01 am

Swathi: Hello Raj, you sound like still sleeping? Please get up and get ready. We are all supposed to meet in front foyer in 1 hr. I am not your mom and certainly will not give you another wake up call.

Raj: Oh! You sound mad at me. This is only the 4th time you called. And you require at least 3 hrs to get ready which includes trying at least 10 dresses. We are just going on a 1 day hiking trip. All are college buddies; does it even matter what are you wear? And thanks Mom for waking me up. You are gem. Promise I will be on time. See you @ 10.

9:50am

Anindho: Deepti, I am totally against today's plan. Why do we need to go with so many people and waste quality time? Why can't we just hang out in college or some mall? Let us just bunk the trip. Anyway it looks like everyone is late. It is almost ten. We can go to compu lab and work for sometime till they leave. How is it?

Deepti: No! I told you that we are part of this gang. And Raj has worked so hard to arrange a car, made sure all parents agree and everyone is coming. The food is on him and so is the spot. All he ask is you to come and this is what you give him in return. Shame on you. I am not moving from the foyer. And the outing to waterfall is not important; it is the journey and chit-chat which will be so much fun.

Anindho: Ah Crap! I know why Raj is putting all the damn efforts in this. After all Swathi is coming. Look here comes Mahitha; atleast now my plan is officially trashed.

Mahitha: Hi Deepti, Hi Anindho. you guys are already here? Look, I got the food basket. I know Raj said no food required, but you know my mom, she needs to be sure that all of us are well fed. Typical mom.

Deepti: Yeah. We had to pick something from labs, so we came early. Good. At least now I don't have to worry if Raj forgets food.

10:10am

Raj: Hello everyone! Sorry I am late; oh but it is only 10mins late. The car is out in the parking lot along with food which before any of you girls say is purely veg, neatly packed in foil and in plastic boxes with labels. Oops, I mean Tupperware with labels!

And yeah, we pick Shivendu on our way. He carries stuff like cricket bat, football, his swimming trunk and hence can't walk till foyer.

Deepti, Mahitha, Swathi: We are waiting for so long and you have no shame to be on time. After all it is your plan. You are the host.

Raj: Chill ladies! I am at your service now! So if your wrath has ended, shall we move. And hey Anindho, you are first up on the wheels. I couldn't manage driver so all three of us have to switch & drive.

Deepti: What? No driver? Isn't it wrong? We should have at least a driver? You guys will get tired. It is almost 3 hrs drive.

Anindho: It is because I asked him to get a couple of beers. No driver means no alcohol. That is the only way he can restrict me drinking.

Raj: Okay no more conversation, let us head now to water, dirt and lot of food.

10:30am

Mahitha: SHIVENDU, COME OUT. WE ARE GETTING LATE. IF YOU DON'T COME OUT SOON, ALL GIRLS WILL COME IN.

Shivendu: Yeah coming, coming. No need to shout. And yeah no need to threat me with you stepping in my room. Just watch your head as my undies are drying right out of the entrance.

***

All friends were finally together. Took them sometime but finally the journey began. Raj, the funny guy planned and executed the plan. Anindho & Deepti or the love birds, were planning their own timeout, but they finally joined. The so called sisters - Mahitha & Swathi made the gang complete.

Oh! I forgot Shivendu. Umm! It doesn't matter. He hardly ever had his head out of Rock music. Wouldn't care much.

***

11:00am

Mahitha, Deepti, Swathi: "..Those were the best of my life... Standing of mama's proch, you told me to wait for ever...Those were the best of my life..."

Raj: Ladies, ladies...Hault. Stop... Thank you all for entertaining us with Mr. Adams' song. But as we see this activity is killing the purpose of our drive. Anindho is busy driving and watching Deepti in the mirror; all you girls have decided to test vocal chords without our involvement; shivendu has got lost in his air-guitar and rock music on his iPod, leaving me to sit and admire you all. On any other day in college it could have been charming so please let us do some in-motion activity involving all.

Anindho: What you have in mind buddy?

Mahitha: And yeah it should not be related to college studies. I know Raj, somehow you and Shivendu will get into either details of Microprocessor program or Java program.

Raj: Dont worry, it won't be studies. I have something like Truth & Dare, but as we are restricted to car, lets keep it Truth Only. The last time I played, it turned out to be real fun. But only if all say the right thing.

Shivendu: Oh! I am not sure this is a better option than my music. Can we stick to what ever we were doing and just reach the waterfall? Raj, please continue observing us. You might find a pattern in our behaviour.

Swathi: Hey Shivendu! Be a sport. I think Truth only is a great idea. And it looks like everyone is interested. So better take that plug out your ear. So we can play.

Deepti: To end the doubt of whom to start, any of you can ask me the first question and then I get to pick whom to ask the second. Deal?

ALL: Yes.

***

11:12am

Raj: Clearly asking something Deepti is not so wonderful as even if she says something not fully truthful, Mr.Anindho will support her. I feel in this case, we can make Anindho as something to her, which he has in his mind and want to know from Deepti? How about this.

Shivendu: Great idea man! Yes, Anindho ask her something, you always wanted to know from the time you guys been together. Every guy wants to know trade secret of women's heart. Though they seldom get to know it & when they do, they do feel sad.

Anindho: Okay. Now that you guys have put me in the hot seat. Deepti, how did you feel when I kissed you for the first time?

Raj, Swathi, Mahitha, Shivendu: WoooooW!

Shivendu: Man, someone has serious issues, knowing how good he is for his women. Dude you know you will get crucify later.

Anindho: Yeah, I know. But she chose to be here by offering this option. I am just adding salt to an already spiced up curry.

Deepti: I know I shouldn't have allowed this. But I am a sport and I will give an honest answer. As per shivendu, he will be sad in knowing the results. It wasn't the best place to kiss - the movie theater - watching a thriller. It was cold and dark inside but all I felt there was wet lips. Yup, just wetness & nothing else. It was the strangest of feeling for me. I guess I was too cold in the theater.

Anindho: Oh My God! Hmm... I can't say whether our choice was right or wrong, but surely can make upto you.

Raj: Oye! You are really asking for trouble man! I think you should stop here and now we all should ask you some question.

Deepti: Yup! Mr.Ray, you will really get some from me. Wait & watch.

Mahitha: Before anyone jump to ask Anindho, I have a question for him. Hope everyone is fine with me asking.

Raj, Swathi, Deepti: Yeah yeah. Go ahead.

Mahitha: So we all know you and Deepti being going around for quite sometime. Whom do you think is the architect of your love story? Upto you now to tell us all truthfully.

Anindho: Oh! This even Deepti knows. I will give some credit to Raj here. He helped a lot & I used to update him on it.

Deepti: Yeah, I know it too Raj. Thanks for being so kind.

Raj: Wow! So senti-mental dialogues from you two. I am touched. But the most funny part here is, Mr. Ray actually asked me how I find Deepti? And how I like her. I was totally confused when he asked me. I said she is nice and a really good friend. I share great chemistry with her. Turns out, he wanted to know whether I like her and is looking forward to approach her. My initial thought was to tease him. But he looked like a kid and I clarified it. Best of luck you too.

Mahitha: Ah! Such a nice thing to do Raj. I always thought, you liked Deepti and backout for Anindho.

Shivendu: Now wait a min, Raj you never told me about this. I thought you always liked Deepti. I am supposed to be your closed friend and I don't even get to know your crushes. I am hurt dude. On this note, I want to feel better. The only way I think it is possible right now, if I get to ask Mahitha the next question.

Mahitha: NO! YOU ARE NOT ASKING ME ANYTHING.

Swathi: Huh! What happened to you Mahitha? Why is there a problem in Shivendu asking you any question? I smell a rat here? Comeon Shivendu spill the beans now!

Shivendu: I will be plain simple straight. Okay Mahitha.

Mahitha: Shivendu stop. Please no. This is not right!

Shivendu: Hee Hee. So here is it guys. I asked Mahitha for her notes and just after giving the note book, she got shocked and started asking me back. I was like, why, did u forget anything in the notebook. And then she pounced on me and started snatching the note book. Finally she got hold of it and took a loose paper out of the book. Now, I have my doubts but I guess it was a very important letter.

Deepti: Wooooow! So who is the guy? You never took our update or advice. Is this guy not in our dept. Tell tell to all of us.

Mahitha: Shivendu, I should kill you for that. Okay. Yes, Rahul wrote me that letter but it was just solution of a problem I gave to him.

Raj: Rahul? Rahul? You like that nerd. OMG!

Shivendu: Nooooooo... That was not a solution, it was luuuvvvv... Love letter. Mahitha is in love. And tell us Mahitha, if you say that it was not love then why you didn't ask any in the group about the problem? Deepti, Anindho, Raj, all have brains.

Mahitha: I am supposed to answer ONLY one question. And I have done that. Period.

Shivendu: Fine! If you dont want to answer, we will take that as yes.

Anindho: Hey Raj, take over the driving buddy. I want to stretch my legs. Is it okay?

Raj: Okay. We can take a break from game and stop over to have lunch. We can finally show mercy to the food and relieve then from the bonds of Tupperware and foil.

***

From the game of relieving dark secrets, we all shifted our attention to food. And when it comes to food, the discussion has to be how worst is the hostel food? Which girl can cook? Do Deepti plans to do all the cooking eventually for Anindho? The disgusting jokes guys can crack while girls eat are too good. Food for thought - Any yellow dal resembles...? Yup, guys are as disgusting as their jokes! :)

***

12:30pm

Deepti: Hurry up guys. Half the day is over and we haven't even reach our destination. Raj, please drag everyone in and let us drive a little faster speed.

Raj: When Raj is here, have no fear. Lets rumble.

Mahitha: Should we also resume the game? Who all are left to answer? Shivendu & Swathi.

Deepti: No no, Raj is also left to answer.

Raj: Before any one asks me, let me ask shivendu if no one has any for him?

Shivendu: Please. I mind you asking me question. We spend so much time in college, hostel, my room that you even know the color of my chaddi. You will not ask a question but unravel some of my trade secrets.

Anindho: Comeon, shivendu. We all promise that if Raj asks any question remotely related to what color of briefs you are wearing or not wearing, we will disqualify it.

Raj: I heard some rumors from my flatmates that there has been increased activity on you mobile bill? There has been lot of long distance calls to your school friends! Is it true? If yes, spill the beans. You can also take Mahitha's way out answering one question, but I am sure no one here will be satisfied.

Shivendu: FYI, My flatmate Abhinav is a dead-man. I will organize his cremation ceremony and you all are invited. Yes, it is true that I am pursuing my school time crush & now sweetheart Neha. To add oohs & aahs, the latest update is, I have opened this at home. They like her already.

Deepti: One ooh and one aah for you :) This is even bigger than Mahitha's crush on Rahul.

Anindho: Man! You are on a faster track buddy. We both are finding it hard to tell our parents. Especially when Deepti parents want a nice American return South Indian lad for her and my parents want a homely-bengali bahu.

Deepti: Everyone has been asked to say something they wouldn't have otherwise but Swathi & the architect of this wonderful trip. Now I want to ask Raj, the same question his buddy asked me, with a little questions hanging here & there. Raj, tell about your first kiss, crush and location.

Shivendu: What? You almost choked me on water girl. Raj & these details. Never! He is such a casanova, I doubt he will remember that moment.

Anindho: Na, na. He is bounded by the rules of the land; in this case rules of the car. Speak up Raj. You should not hide this from your friends.

Raj: I doubt anyone of you will believe the truth and it is very easy for me to make up to tell you what you all want to hear. So should be truth or a well-dressed up lie.

Swathi: No Raj. We all will believe what you will say. Please let it be the truth.

Raj: To start, I will have to deny the alligation of being a casanova. Now most of you know that I am from a small town and studied in boy's school. Till date, I have no girlfriend. Believe me, first time I talked to a girl who was not related or a family friend was in 9th standard. Before that, I used to like girls somewhat similar to how Calvin likes Susie - sarcasm associated if someone doesn't understand. Coming to college, first year was crutial for studies so I hardly every interacted with any of the feminine gender and we been friends ever since. So having kiss, crush or location is still in my future.

Mahitha: Whoaaa! Hmmm... Raj, the way you have been with anyone for the past year, we never knew. So basically you are covering lost ground. For first part of your life aka school, you were denied the company or made to believe we are not the kinds to interact and now second phase of life aka college, all you do is flirt.

Raj: Mahitha, I am hurt. You girls would have booted me with sandles if I would have ever flirt with either of you. And trust me on this, flirting is not even in my dictionary. Anyways, this is the sad story of your lovely, charming & handsome friend. You can either show pity on me or next time any of your school visit our college, do introduce me.

Shivendu: Please don't forget me.

Anindho: Me too.

Deepti: What? #$*@&#

Swathi, Raj, Mahitha, Shivendu: ha ha ha!

***

We ask our friends lot of questions whose answer we already know. This was another of those astonishing FIRST which left friends shocked. After all, Raj is much more than just a charming chocolate boy.

***

1:18pm

Raj: Hey we have finally reached the place. Lets get out and rock the place.

Mahitha: But no one asked the one question to Swathi? We all got so engaged in Deepti-Anindho's fight, we didn't ask her.

Anindho: Please get it quick. I need to run for Almighty's call.

Raj: Lets me make it short - Swathi, excluding Shivendu, do you have crush on anyone in this travel group. Please say it in Yes or No, rather if's and but.

Swathi: Hee hee! YES.

*****

Lot of first and the real fun began with the first proposal. Guys really don't know how to make it special. But they do make the girl smile. And of the many qualities girls have, they will never forget when & how you made them smile. Just keep adding away these when & how timestamps.

Thinking of the song, girls were singing; it holds so true... Indeed college days are the best days of our life.

The flaws vs The mistakes

"ha ha ha, so you managed to goof up so badly.", said rajesh while holding his stomach and rolling on the floor laughing.

"Come on, rajesh. How was I supposed to talk to him? He is my senior in college and now my boss in office. I am not great in hiding emotions but I cant just show him my feelings too." replied sheepish-shilpa.

"Yes. You are not supposed to tell him that you like him ever since he asked you for Pen in college and you sent him SMS on Valentines Day.", rajesh replied enjoying the moment.

Now with almost in crying state Shilpa begs for help, "Every one was wishing each other, so I thought, I will also forward SMS. Okay I made a mistake, how do I apologies?"

"First you make a terrible mistake and now you want to do it all over again? Are you crazy lady? Listen to me, just behave like nothing happened. And now that the cat is out of the box, you have amazing chance to find out whether he has some feelings or not. So pretend like nothing happened." adviced rajesh.

***

Rajesh and Shilpa are identical twins and have special chemistry. never has been a moment in ones life that the other doesn't know about. Be it the first crush, to first kiss, they have been an ideal brother-sister. And Rajesh like always enjoying Shilpa's longest lasting crush. Her college-mate or as she once said on her 20th birthday, soul-mate...Shri.

*******

"Dino, why do I have to act smart always? I am so stupid, no-no I am more than stupid." spoke the confused Shri to his roommate.

Dino was still getting over 14th feb party hangover, opened his eyes and said to Shri, "What crap are you talking man? If you are asking me, I agree every bit of it. You are STUPID. No doubt about it. But why all of sudden? And what about acting smart?"

"I have this cryptonic flaw in me, which makes me act too smart aka stupid in front of Shilpa. From college to present, we have shared so many 3-D space, but none of it has been in vicinity of candles, food or even coffee. The first time it was supposed to be walk till college gate and I manage to blur out PEN. I am full of jinx." pointed Shri while smashing few of Medusa and Minotaur on his Playstation.

"Ah! Not again. Please no. I have been your roommate for the past 6 years and in-between all the girls who tried to hold your attention, you manage to stick on your same old gramophone record." pleaded Dino.

"Hey comeon man! You know, irrespective of how popular I was in college, Shilpa never looked at me. I am sure she is seeing someone. Otherwise, why wouldn't she say anything?" defended Shri (and there goes another bunch of mythical creature butchered by blades of chaos)

Bored with the game, Shri threw down the dualshock and switched to his iPhone. Mad about his gadgets, suddenly Shri's smile widened.

"Dino, Shilpa sent me Valentine SMS. Do you believe it?" jumped Shri.

"WHAT $%^@&? Total Hangover shocker!!!" screamed Dino, jumping onto Shri to have a look.

"What the hell man, you got SMS from the whole team. If Shilpa sent it what's the big deal. Someone would have sent it to her and she would have forward it to 10-20 people just like you." said a disappointed Dino, getting back to his bed.

"Thanks! You could have been a little more supportive. Anyways, now I will see what I can talk about tomorrow? May be I will tell, I had a date on 14th. She should feel jealous if she actually sent this SMS." said Shri with puzzled look.

***

"Hi Shri, how was the weekend?" asked shilpa, first day back in office after the goofup sms episode.
"Ah! Shilpa. It was nice. Actually I had a date on 14th. My friend came along with his girlfriend and her roommate. She was sweet." replied Shri, looking as usual the cool-hunk.

***

Shri is the heart-throb during in college time, being part of tennis, swimming and cricket team. Yet there are something that is a miss... Let us all find that out.

"Rajesh, I will bury you 6 feet under. You were the one who advised me in acting like nothing happened. And Shri comes back saying he got a date on the 14th. You are such a pig." screamed Shilpa to her bro on the phone.
"Calm down lady. Don't be so jumpy. How many guys you know will tell college friend or team-mate or may be junior in office about date? It sounds all so artificial and goofy." explained Rajesh to his hot head sister.
"Why is it so hard for him to just notice all my love and care? I know all his favourites, from color, to food choice. Just why?" cried Shilpa.
"Deary, it is not the color but the compatibility matters. Give it some time and you will know it all. Then you will feel so stupid why you acted like this." helped Rajesh.

***

So Mr.Flaw and Ms.Mistake lead 8-10 hrs of 3-D life together not knowing that at 0,0,0 co-ordinate (aka Heart) was immense love for each other. Love which has taught Ms how to feel shy in front of Mr in her otherwise stubborn, hot headed life with her family & on other hand has added a Static contant shared across world as "love" to Mr's ever changing life.

What if all wishes come true!

I woke up with a smile on my face & warm comfort beside me. I got married a week back. "Nisha", she came into my life and changed everything. She lies beside me, sleeping like a angel. Today is her turn for the breakfast but I don't want to get up. She hates my cooking and wait for her turn every alternate weekend.

I don't believe it that we met just 5 weeks back. Accidentally she bumped into me while riding her bicycle in our society complex. She bruised her knee while I got a spoke poked in my leg. The visit to doctor moved on to letter of apology (HANDWRITTEN) from her. She came to see me play tennis, once my calf was healed. She tried so hard for me to see the love but I was dumb and never asked her out. Finally when I did say, she laughed and said, "I thought you will never ask."

The dinner was supposed to be casual in my terms, so I dressed up in Jeans & T-shirt. And when I went to her door, it looked like I was the cab driver, rather than her date. The sapphire suit she wore and hair let down made my heart skip a beat. Tugging into my arm she said, "I knew you will never get out of Jeans & T-shirt. May be that is what I like in you, Akaash."

From that dinner, we never looked back. I met her parents a week later and a week after our family were already deciding on dates (many long distance calls). My mom was on phone with her more than I could. She will go on about dresses and makeup and yes, some of my embarrassing childhood memories. Two women who have the credit for writing my life were savouring the moment. Even when we go out shopping, mom constantly will call and ask, "Is Akaash being miser? He can be one?".

The dates came and it was a disaster. 6 Months of courtship period. Already it was hard enough to spend day in office and night talking on phone when we lived in the same society, few blocks away. I won't count myself Romantic. I am more of a dork. May be the Mr.Clumsy in me which attracts her. But then one day, sitting at my friends apartment I was given the best advice ever.

Sheru (short for Shivendu) said, "Dude if the two of you are getting miserable and can't wait for another 5months and 1week, run away and get married in some temple. Shelly and I will help?"

I replied, "Dude, our parents are going crazy over preparation. I hear from my mom everyday time isn't sufficient for her. And we do this? Both families will probably disown us both."

"Get married and then tell me what will they say? Live separately? Come-on. And for a change you can do something romantic. Now go and tell her you will do this. I am sure she will agree.", forced Sheru. And then Shelly (Sheru's wife) also joined. The whole idea was crazy but possible. Her parents know we are together most weekends shopping. But I was worried whether Nisha will like it or not?

***

"I love you, babyboy. I will be waiting for next Saturday. Dad will be fuming, but mom will handle everything." she replied with a kiss. The glow in her eyes, the touch of her hand. It was all so wonderful.

***

"WHAT? YOU GOT MARRIED?", screamed my father on the phone. "HOW COULD YOU BE SO IRRESPONSIBLE. WHAT WILL I TELL SAMDHIJI? YOU MADE A FOOL OF US. YOUNG MAN THIS IS NOT SOMETHING I EXPECTED FROM YOU."

"Dad, I love you guys. Can you just take the next flight in and come down here. Sheru and I have setup a small party here. And don't talk to baba (Nisha called her dad and so I got in the same habit). We will handle it before you come. Please. I love you guys." I calmed him with lot of love and emotional tone.

"You bet we will be there to see our daughter on her special date. And ask her what stupid charm she saw in you. You both are crazy. Anyways, you go and talk to samdhiji." a caring dad said.

***

The party was small and as Nisha and I sat across the table; she with my family and I with hers. A tradition followed in her family, our eyes were playing games. The time has finally come to be forever together. If love can be intoxicating, I am sure we both had poisoned every dish that night.

***

"Babyboy, what are you doing up so early on Saturday morning? And what are you writing?" Nisha asked with sleepy eyes. The trail of thoughts were broken with my sleeping beauty waking up.

I replied, "All wishes have come true", before hugging her and going back to sleep.

No Guts no Glory...

Time and again L.O.V.E. has tricked many and baffled the thoughts of the two noble species tendering mother earth. Is it the desire to know how other feels or how both are connected with an unknown and unseen power? May be that is why Love is as red as our blood. It flows in our very veins and the purity of love can be measure by what our heart does - Purify blood aka purifying Love.

From the olden times where "Men" goes out for hunting and "Women" makes home a paradise to live in to the medieval times and roman history where "Women" empowered the senate and other monarchy or democrats to the modern age where days like 14th Feb bask the complete word in one color - the color of love, the color red, we have seen these two unique species involved in romantic and delicate times.

On a personal note, "I" come from place where it take far more courage in expressing love. No I didn't mean the people who create problems on 14th Feb and hitting women wearing western clothes but the mere thought of expressing love is tricky, charming, Different. For some it is easy but I can see for most it is difficult (that includes me too). And I am not being Gender specific here. I have seen my fast friends from the fairer sex find it hard to break the nut-head of few guys. No one is being blamed here. It is just the shy-factor or the fun-factor making us all enjoy how and when should we express our self.

Currently undergoing physio, I saw young doctors and medical students in groups. Sometimes the professional intimacy helps in expressing ones feeling. Common joke where a male doctor ask a female doctor to check with her Stethoskops why his heart has stop just because the female doctor has stepped into the room.

Going back to "my" world of IT professional, I do not know how to express the same desire here on my blog which I have started to feel recently in my office. I consider myself workaholic. Who believes 5 days of week should be spent labouring in office. Not necessary for 12-14 hrs, like my fellow college mates in Bank, but what ever work is given should be on a ASAP basis. In this mindset suddenly at a party organized by my group mate after being married brought a feeling closely associated to love. I know for certain it is not love. It cant be cause I haven't even talk to her. I saw her in his function and she looked so beautiful. May be a sense of infatuation (if that is the right word...) From then on I got occupied with work and never got a chance to find more about her. Recently luncheon timings have somehow made me come across her. She in simple and I am sure that is what makes me just go across the table and say "Hi" to her. But here is where the whole feeling of knowing someone doesn't work. I won't mind making a fool of myself by this act but what next after Hi? It surely will not work and the only way it will be the disastrous way.

Then comes my evil twin who reminds me of all the problems, she might be engaged to someone? she might NOT seriously interested in guys? she might have family values which restrict her in having such notion? And I respect all of them but don't wanna believe any of them.

Now there is a possible way to know about her personality but asking her close friends. But I get into a risk of her knowing this. It creates a problem as she might not like the whole idea of me inquiring something. So where does it leave me - admirer who sits at lunch table always thinking if he will ever have the GUTS to go over her table and say HI? I will hate to be that person.
So here in the end I just wait to find that one chance where I just get to talk to her, no matter how short it is - 30sec? 2mins? a lunch?

And just to clarify, the title of this short say, No Guts no Glory - its correct and wrong depending in how we interpret it. If you think by knowing someone and making her/him fall in love is an achieved Glory, then your intertpretation is wrong. Here Guts and Glory is to over come the resistance we are born with and overtime we manage to know how to overcome our own limitations. This is how I define Glory. As for Love, I am too small soul to explain what it is like. And even if you read what I say about Love, you will still not be able to understand it. I know Love is something to be felt and not told. Saying I love you is not even comparable than just doing some act which brings smile on her face.

I still wait for those 30secs...

For my angel...

Something happens to me when I see you oh! Baby...

You bring a warmth inside me Oh! Baby...

You brought joy to our family Oh! Baby...

You got your chubby cheeks like you mom Oh! Baby...

& Your nose reminds me of your father as kid Oh! Baby...

Love from Nanu, nani, mama(s), mami

& a life long care from dada dadi chacha (no chachi) Oh! Baby...

A tribute to Randy Pausch

On a saturday morning when I was having my first feeling of being a workaholic, my friend pinged me with this link http://in.youtube.com/watch?v=ji5_MqicxSo which turned out to be a really huge one (around 1hr 16mins), I had no idea, I will have traces of tears down my eyes. I have been emotional in the past and presentation about life, struggle, success and numerous other things have made me nostalgic. Yet this amazing person, Randy Pausch (yes I was unaware of him, even though going through a whole semester studying Computer Graphics), amazed me to new levels.
He uses some trade mark style one will see in a presentation, his idea has brough revolution in so many fields.. But above all, he was a person so pure at heart. And as my grandma used to say, "Even God has shortage of Good people around in heaven, that is why he was called to spread his charm", Randy Pausch passed away on july 25 2008, leaving a legacy for us all to cherish.

I am not a believer in adding Video's to the blogger page unless they spread the right knowledge. And hence, I am adding his Last Lecture here.

Love for food...

A day in Bangalore, a day to remember and all I can think of this day, which should have never come in my life, an ever lasting memory. From early childhood, the only reason I have gone into a kitchen is to eat or in search of something sweet (imagine an ant in hunt of sugar). With 32 sweet-teeth (yeah even my wisdom 's looking for sugar), I have believed in food and its various form. From Bundi ke laddu to Jalebi, from kala-jaam to nani-made basan-laddu.
And as I continue to talk about food with my mouth watered, it was a different person who took center-stage (ME), entering kitchen with a mission - Mission Indian-Bread (or in simple terms - plain parathas). With the grounded floor I started in the company of esteem friend (a college buddy - has asked me not to reveal his name - no explanation) who didn't want to make the doug of wheat for making the Indian-breads. As I pour water, drop by drop, I realize how easy was it for our Mother who used to whipped her magic and turn powder into a clay-like mass and how difficult it is for a muggle like me (non-magical folk). Ofcourse the clay like mass was close, yet really sticky and just refused to come of my hand. And as a little kid, who searches for his mother's hand while learning how to walk, I searched for my mobile and called my sexy-babe (my mom).
In shock, yet she was able to tell me to pour dry floor, till I get it hard and firm like a clay-like mass. And it worked, IT REALLY WORKED (thanks Mom)....
Everyone will think, I would have stopped there. Tired, huffing and puffing, I continue, tired, exhausted (okay I am exaggerating it a lot), to roll them into shapes. Ah! Another art of its own!! I have laughed in the past on my brother or cousins, who have attempted there luck at the art of rolling doug-balls into circular or triangular breads. And now the circle-of-life laughs at me, challenging me to bring the right shape.
4 attempts and this was the shapes:
- Attempt 1 : Can't define the shape or yeah kind of in shape of ameoba
- Attempt 2 : Sort of a rombus; can't be sure though
- Attempt 3 : Most funny of all, tried to make circular, instead of triangular bread; turned out to be a fish
- AND FOR THE GRAND FINALE : YES, I finally managed a triangular shape. I know, some of my friends will never believe and hence the pic

And so the affair with food has another story to tell. For days to come I will always cherish this very moment.

Untitled: Scene 2 (incomplete)

Back-Office
HCU headquarters were located in Mumbai (or for some Bombay) and hence all the funds used to flow to the Finance capital of India. The posh buildings with all the latest gadgets, HCU headquarters was nothing less than a modern castle. Bangalore office, on the contrary was an old rickety building with broken windows and old termite-ridden doors.

Untitled: Scene 1 (incomplete)

THE FALL

"The person jumped right of the roof, officer", tea stall vendor told the plain-suit officer, standing right next to a dis-mangled figure covered with blood and a white sheet.

"Where were you when he jumped, did you see him jumping?", asked the middle-aged, homicide crime unit (HCU) office, Mr. D'souza.

"I was here only sir, selling tea and biscuits to the folks passing on the street. I heard a loud crash, then the car siren went off. Finally the lady I was serving tea, started screaming. I turned around to see the guy for the first time, lying on the smashed car parked on the shoulder of the road. Some people were pointing at the roof top. I also looked up to see where he has jumped from. Such a horrible site sir.", replied the vendor.

"Did you see anyone on the roof top when he jumped, there is a restaurant at the top? It is afternoon, people should be eating there. Someone should have stopped him." asked the officer.

"No sir, there will be no one today. Once a month, this restaurant is closed, generally it is first Saturday of every month, but this time they had a big party organized here. So they chose the third Saturday. No one is there on the roof top restaurant." replied the vendor.

After asking the general information about the tea stall vendor, Mr.D'souza called his junior officer to know more about the victim.

The junior officer walked up to D'souza and handed him few articles, kept inside a plastic bag.

"We found this wallet, mobile and a ring in a white envelope with no names on it, inside his pocket. Victim is Avinash Parthasarthy, resident of kolkata, working here as a software professional. I ran a check on our local database, found out he was once roughed up by RT Nagar police (north Bangalore) for possession of drugs. Got bailed out from his rich dad and since then attending some rehabilitation program. Guess is, the judge is Golf time-buddy with the rich boy's dad. Didn't get any sentence, just a warning as the quantity was less than 10gms. Self-use." informed the officer, Mr. Nath.

"Thanks Prem, call the forensic team, ask them to check out the roof top. Already the local police and their inefficient constables would have left you enough prints & enough problems to find the right information. I will go and talk to Mr.Anand, may be I can convince him to take the local police off, so we can get some work done here. Till then secure the whole area, re-route the traffic, ask the manager of the hotel no one leaves; even to piss. I need everyone in the ball-room. It is on the 2nd floor." ordered the senior man.

"How do you know so much about this hotel? You shifted recently to Bangalore? And the place looks like more than our pay-level." inquired Prem.

"Well, my wife's close relative got married last year and I had to attend that marriage. Accidentally that happened here, this very hotel. If they haven't renovated recently, the building is most likely to be the same.", D'souza said, as he walked into the entrance of Hotel Grand, searching for the officer in charge Mr.Anand, a corrupt officer, know to accept hafta (bribe) from the hotel & resorts which come in plenty in his area.

The entranced looked exactly the same to the senior officer, like when he visited with his wife the year before. Mirrors with Golden border makes up the facade & the big illuminated letters G.R.A.N.D. making the hotel look rather too expensive. The rich and poor both are part of the success of this hotel, while the rich throw away money on anything the hotel offers, it is the poor who worked hours in kitchens, rooms, halls to make it large & indeed Grand. How apt the name of the hotel was.

The hotel was not a normal 5 star luxury comfort in the city. It was owned by a rich liquor tycoon, Mr. K. Raheja, who rather spends extra when it comes to buildings. Along with his 5 resorts on the outskirts of Bangalore, he had 2 very special hotels, one right at the center of the city on St.Marks road, named St.Marks where as Hotel Grand lies on the Outer ring road. The hotel was build over the period of 4 years 2001-05 by the renowned WATG company (who has places like The Royal Hawaiian hotel in Waikiki, The palace tower at Caesar's palace and others, part of their portfolio) over an area of 50,000 sq feet having banquet hall and meeting facilities, full time spa and fitness center, retail shops, restaurants (including the one on the roof top from where the victim jumped), swimming complex with marble-lined pools, two whirlpools, pool bar and 500 sq feet rooms giving the extra space guests needs.

As Mr.D'souza entered the hotel through the golden revolving doors, stepping on the fine Italian marble floor having the Persian rug leading to the Concierge desk, a voice called him over to the waiting lounge towards the left of the entrance.

"My old friend. So you finally made it. Are you getting old, taking time to reach here or your man briefed you regarding the corpse on the hood of the car?", replied Mr.Anand.

"As for friend, I don't mingle with the local police and yeah the man under my orders follows professional approach, which other departments have certainly lacked in the past." snapped D'souza.

"Enough of the chit-chat and discussion. What are you doing here? Aren't you at the roof top taking care of any possible evidence?" added D'souza sarcastically. "And why did you call me? This doesn't reach us until you send the FIR (first information report) to our department." inquire D'souza.

"Even when a high profile suicide like this happens, we do not go banging on the HCU door. Apart from the other stuff boy head, there was a business card in his hand. I knew your man will sniff the other stuff from a distance, but I managed to take the card away. And guess what, whose name is on that card - Mr. Alex D'Souza, Senior Field officer, Homicide Crime Unit. Isn't that strange?" barked Anand.

Anand continued and said, "As for the barging in into the elite Grand Hotel, I was stopped by our so-called justice department. The hotel owner has restricted our access till his arrival in the evening and we don't want charges against our department for trespassing. Understood?"

"So you have already made up your mind that this is a suicide and not a murder. Interesting! But you know how 'I' operate. There has been a murder and no bloody judge can give me orders to stay here as this is objection to investigation. As for the owner, I know his relation with you and that certainly hampers your act of duty. I am not waiting here, till some old man comes and give us pep-talk. Got that!". replied D'souza with a touch of arrogance.

"Listen pal! I haven't decided what it is, to me it doesn't matter. The guy is dead, either his corpse will send us hunting for a murderer or a slow process of solving why he leaped of the building. It will not gonna bring him back. I am doing as much as my job as I can, for old time sake I pick the card of and waited till you come. Yes, I have business with the hotel owner, but that shouldn't be your concern right now, what should be your concerned is, how to investigate this case while you are on the suspects list. Try to think about that in this air conditioned waiting lounge, while I come back after a smoke." Anand said while jabbing the card into D'souza's chest and started walking towards the lounge glass door.

D'souza do not approve Anand as an officer. They had been together in the academy and were fast friends. Sharing the same room, their goals were somewhat similar. Anand was smarter than D'souza and has aced all his exams, physical & mental. D'souza was his toughest competitor yet they remain friends. Both had plans to sit for senior exams after completion of Police academy training. With big-appetite for homicides and knack of solving mysteries, both were destined to become great crime investigators. But fate had other ideas. Death of Anand's father, made him discontinue his study. Lack of financial support forced Anand to join the Police force to earn two-piece of bread for his family. That was the end of a friendship which one existed between D'souza and Anand. While D'souza continued to be as bright he was (and no more challenges from Anand) he entered into the Homicide crime unit where as Anand was left with the bitterness of life. Money was the soul aim of his living. For what could have been an honest officer, he became a shame to police force. Even D'souza couldn't manage to save Anand from his misery.

"Wait Anand. I want to talk to you. First, why should I be the investigating officer. Have you reported the details to Chief? Did he? And just because Avinash had my card doesn't mean I am on the suspect list?" said D'souza.

Mr. Ashok Darward was man of principles. He ran the police force as a school, where he is the principal and all officers on his teaching staff. Though Chief is more of a western style of addressing the senior most officer in police, Ashok's craze for English movies has earned him the same title of Chief and somewhat the same respect.

"You know how it works in our department. Chiefs gets all first hand details. And he agreed with the idea of removing the card. Flip the card and you will know the reason why I called you. I could have taken you into custody for question with this card, but my instincts says the corpse wanted you more than us." cleared Anand.

D'souza flipped the card to see the letters written:

"Help me!", D'souza read it with a strange look.

"Do you see the letter 'M' in the second word. It is number 3 written horizontally." told Anand.

D'souza gets on his walkie-talkie and calls Prem, "Prem, get on the records and check is there any relation between the victim and me. Check medical records, did we share a hospital, Check blood sample and donation camp visits, Check victims where-abouts when I was in bangalore last year, was he also attending the marriage. Check any Goddamn possibility and find me a link. And yeah one more thing, this is off the record. Result should be on my table along side my dinner. Round up the team, call Meddy from the forensic lab, I need her to gather all the details, she wont be able to go to the roof top, but at least get prints on his clothes etc. Take the body to morgue and get the autopsy done by Hammer. Ask him to join us in office for dinner. I want details on that ring you found, there has to be a finger which was supposed to wear it? Find that person. Put two people on it. Check the calls statements from the mobile and his credit life-style from his wallet. Ze can handle this from the back office. Call up the victims family, see who can come down from Kolkatta. Lets gather around 10, we have a story to solve so better stock up the fridge with food and beverages - but no alcohol. Got that?"
"Yes, boss. I will get on it right away. Also, the press is here, what do you want me to say?" asked Prem.

"You know, I don't take the press till I have a lead. Keep them at bay and release the statement that this was an accident. I will handle the hotel staff.", said D'soouza as the line went dead.

"Yeah I saw the letter 'M'. Okay Anand, I am fine being on the suspect list, but as you know I am here to help. You can put your best man to dig any dirty details on me. In the mean time I will see what can I do about this card. You will anyhow breath down my neck during this investigation, so better be of some help. I want you to get the owner and tell him we are on the roof top. If he likes he can join me for evening snacks. And please, as much as possible, keep the owner of my back. I hate people when they drag me down." requested D'souza.

"Fine, I will see what I can do. You go ahead and check the roof. Also, get me a cheese burger for dinner, along with chips and cola. I will be their at 9:30." smiled Anand.

ROOFTOP

"Mili, you are the Restaurant in-charge?" enquired D'souza.

"Yeah, I am the caretaker of this place. I rushed in as soon as the hotel clerk called me about this incident. As you already know it was our day off." replied Mili, a talented young lady.

"Do you know the victim? Has he visited this place before? And how did he manage to get access to rooftop when it was close?" asked D'souza as he started his investigation.

"Yes, Mr.Parthasarthy has been our regular customer. His father stays at St.Marks each time he visits his son. Mr.Avinash had already booked his engagement ceremony in our banquet hall. It was initially scheduled for 15 of next month, but I recieved a call from Mr.Parthasarthy asking to reschedule the ceremony. I asked for the new date and reason behind it. He said, he prefers it to be on the 3rd of next month without stating any clear reason. Also he requested this information to be hidden from his dad or Ms.Sahay. I am not sure how he managed to reach the roof top." answered Mili. The sadness was clearly visible in her eyes. D'souza was able to see how much Mili was disturbed. Shows how much in the past few days the victim and Mili has interacted.

"Ms.Sahay? Who is she? I dont think software professional got secetaries?" asked the officer, looking around the place for any noticable change in furniture.

"No Ms.Sahay is not his secetary. She is Mr.Parthasarthy's girl friend. They were plannin to get engaged here. She must be broken right now. They looked so nice as a couple. Mr.Parthasarthy has asked me to fill the whole place with lillies. Ms.Sahay has this thing for lillies."

"Well we havent informed any one apart from the immediate family. If you have the contact number of Ms.Sahay, I would you to pass that information to Mr.Nath; he will be hotel lobby. And if possible, please send the elevator boy and your Manager. I would like to have a word with them. They will be in the second floor ball room. Also, if possible, please dont go far. I might need your assistance again." said D'souza, as he walked away towards the edge of the roof.

The railing was approximately 4feet high, with a silver bar running at the top. The mud in the area and on the railing showed that someone has tried to climb on the railing. D'souza knew it would be from the victim's shoes, but this needs to be clarified by his forensic expert. D'souza had a strange feeling as it hasnt rained in Bangalore in a week, so having mud is unlikely. His thoughts were disturbed when a deep voice call out his name.

"Inspector D'souza, I was told by my staff in the ball room I can find you here. Let me introduce myself, I am Kishore Raheja, owner and head of Raheja group of hotels and resort. I was one of the generous doners at the Police Fund raiser function last year. Your head will know me clearly." as he smokes a cuban cigar. This was the introduction of Bangalore's rich and mean business Tycoon, K.Raheja. Clearly the smoke he exhaled gives the vibes of money. Started as a small builder he soon got interested into liquor business. News circulated that he got his liquour license by gifting a penthouse to Minister's wife and probably sleeping with her too.

As Inspector D'souza rounded up with the owner, the elevator boy and the Manager, Mr. Chandu, joined them at the rooftop. The questions were brief and still Inspector D'souza had no clue why Avinash came to the roof top to take a leap. As per the elevator boy, Avinash must have slipped past the delivery boys at the back of the hotel and must have taken the service elevator. No one saw him coming up and no one saw anyone leave. So there is still a chance some might have pushed the victim. The Manager was off duty during lunch hours and the person in-charge Mr. Alok, a confident looking man has joined Inspector D'souza on the rooftop.

"Hello Inspector. My name is Alok. I am afternoon shift sub-manager. How can I be of assistance?", replied Alok. A well built, in mid-twenties, Alok has been working for past 3 years. With some luck and preferences from his love, Mili, he has managed to do more than good in the Raheja chain of hotels.

"Did you know the victim, Mr. Parthasarthy? Did you have any conversation with him lately? Was he tense about anything?" asked the inspector, noticing

Bed, Book & Laptop

Boooom.... Yup, Bangalore (India) no longer is safe. With 8 bombs going up (were of low intensity) and the 9th one found (& defused), it was a lockout for me. The plan was to go out play some game of Cricket, look around for apartment (still the hunt is on) and eat out at favo places. Some spicy chicken or some corner house Ice-cream. Aint gonna happen this weekend, because of some misleaded people. Yeah, they are the people who are misleaded in doing such act of loonesy. But this topic is for some other day. Having witness communcal rights and almost died in one of then, for me it is a sensitive topic.
Locked down and little sick (cough & cold) I had no choice but to resort to my favo pass time. Sitting on my laptop reading some ramdon article on the net, checking out what new stuff hits the market (mostly in world of computers), reading a book (right now onto the appeal - by john grisham) & watching tv. A story of somesort came to my mind. These are times when I bless my office to give me a laptop. I know the rule state to use it for official purpose only, but it is hard to manage two laptop. So for all sane purposes, I have to bend the rule. Amen! Let us write this story in different blog...

Review: The Dark Night

Rating: 3.5/5

So when my brother made plan with his office colleagues for this new blockbluster, I forced my colleague, Sachit for a late night movie too. Though wednesday isn't the best day to go for 10 o clock movie, still it didnt turn out to be such a bad idea (i did manage to reach office in nick of time).

The movie starts of with a little weird stuff, the local public trying to copy-(b)at the batman. Not a great idea, as there is only one hero in these comic books. The entrance with the bat-mobile and then jumping on to the hood of the car or what ever that was left of it - Thats an entrance. Now with the big boys, I mean the rich and hunk kind of guys, like the Bruce Wayne we had, it was sad to see him trying to find girl just because the new DEA is taking out the only girl he likes. Okay fine, I will give Mr.Wayne a little benefit of doubt. After all, he has the money, power and the charm to lure any one of them! Right - Mr. Wayne.

Joker!! Ha ha ha!!! --- Lets put a smile on your face --- The guy has left us all with a oscar-winning performance. I loved his acting all along, yeah remember that magic trick - kids, dont try that home. Comparisons are bad, but what Gabbar showed the Bollywood in Sholey, Joker had the same lasting effect. Even as I left the hall (apart from checking the good crowd) the only voice that lasted was of the J' rather than the Bat.

The worst performer will be the girl-friend. And as this is a cape-crusader film, I expected atleast a better character. Not much of a part, so she didnt pay attention while doing it. Good they finished her of, so in the next part just dont bother having her :) Good job director...

Mr. DEA had a sine-curve job. From being the un-masked hero he became the scared,burnt face villan. The special effect or the make up on the face (what ever it was) was shocking, let alive. Especially the eye! Phew...!! Gives the whole hall jitters.

The background beats, the camera-work, the costumes and the gadget work were all fancy and would have taken great effort to put in. Comissioner Gorden was the usual and the trick of killing him and bringing him back was good. The computer geek with his sonar funda was new and affective, though the hostage wrapped as villan and villan wrapped as hostage was old.

Now, my review is kind of all over the place and that is what made me feel was the movie too... What is the point the director is trying to bring out? That rules aint good? Or no, we humans are bound to make mistake yet with a guiding hand of a hero we can act sane. The ending was good and bad at the same time, but then it is just a prespective.

Again, things to look out for in no specific order:

1. Joker (this anyways would have topped any list)

2. Stunts, a big screen movie.

3. Ofcourse the Bat-man and the Burnt face DEA head.

4. Last and not the least, the gadgets. Car, Bike, clothes... All awesome.

Oops & sorry, forgot to add about Alfred, but then his role is always great. Same goes here :)

So until next time... Keep out of trouble and batman's way!

Review: A Prisoner of Birth by Jeffrey Archer

Rating: 4/5

Jeffrey Archer has done it again. Mesmerizing me with his new Novel - A Prisoner of Birth. His books are more of a screenplay where anyone with half-decent imagination can see it all happening like a movie. Especially born in the Age of Harry Potter, LOTR, Eragon and lot of other enchanting magical stories, the imagination of my-kind reaches far.

The books starts off well, especially the finner details of how the brawl takes place between our hero - Danny Auther Cartwright and the bad guys - Craig and etc... Few lose ends were their during the initial trial, like why no forensic test were conducted on Craig for blood, after all the book is written in the age of Discovery Channel and the ultra violet light. Not even a single drop of blood on the path from the pub to Craig's Apartment? I know I am a bit harsh, but a story of how Craig manages to get away from that would have been fun (and would have made the book last for more than a day for me).

Moving on to the prison part, I can say it was neatly done. I like the way JA kept the interest of readers by making good things happen to our hero Danny in prison. No mention of obscenity in prison was also appreciated otherwise mention of gang rape in showers or brawls are quite common in any story with prison. Lose end again was the not-so-enough reason from Leach to kill or attempt to kill Danny in the showers while the football match was on. Could have added another page or two for a fight between Danny & Leach would have spiced the whole issue (yes I am contradicting my earlier point, but here it seems so relevant to me).

The freedom couldnt have been done better. As some might point out, how can two people look so similar and yet have no blood relation, I can assure them that I have met people in my Life where they look so similar (though in my case the person was a girl). The battle between uncle Hugo and nephew was interesting (and little funny...). But I felt the whole idea regarding the collection of stamps and grandfather's will, were only necessary so Danny can have cash in hand to battle against the gang-of-four (no reference to java community people). Interesting part was how the author subtly mention Danny's progress in study only to open later his skills towards Business and how to handle money-matter.

The revenge was disappointing to me. For me the one in NOT A PENNY LESS, NOT A PENNY MORE was far more elegant. I liked the JA in that book rather here. For me it turned out to be a clip from Hindi movie TRISHUL (oldy with Amitabh bachchan). The silver lining here were the supporting cast and crew (the other characters in the novel) - the bank manager, Scottish legal adviser etc etc. Their parts were well written and really gelled the whole story together making a unforgettable experience for the reader. In the end it was a quick kill in the court, where mistakes were done in plenty by the actual offenders.

As I have no knowledge of Law, especially English law, I was left wondering why the judge denied any reference to the previous sentence? This is something I will need to search and learn on my own.

Things to lookout for will be a long list so I will point out very few of them:

1. Friendship between Danny and Nick, with a great supporting role of the Big Al.

2. The amazing way of find the Second will was fake. I for once was unable to guess what will happen next (again showing my knowledge of Law)

3. Scottish Legal adviser: two amazing act, one was in the court room, second the below the belt hit

4. Love between Danny & Beth - it was kept to apt levels and not overdose of romantic flair. Thank God, the author didnt give bail to Danny once in a while, otherwise Beth would have become a kid-vending machine.

5. Last (from my side, though there will be many more) - the title, A Prisoner of Birth. I am not 100% sure I have got the meaning, but still I can say I have a fair idea which is - you pay for your deeds in this life and this life only & hence everyone is A Prisoner of Birth.

There has been places where JA has mentioned Cricket and I like a true Indian, who may not be best in Cricket, but still holds an opinion, I will say - The book was not a master-blaster package of Sehwag or Peterson's swash-buckling shots, but more of a replay of eligant innings from Sachin or Dravid for that matter. I enjoyed the read, hope you do it too...