If you are born and brought up in a particular city, then of course your loyalty will lie there.. But what if you are compelled to move to a different city, isn't it to your advantage to start liking it?
I have this colleague who has got transferred from Gurgaon to Mumbai and she is not liking it one bit. She swears by Delhi (being born and raised there) and is just unwilling to see the nicer points of the new city she's moved into. No matter how much I try to tell her subtly that the place will grow on her, she is steadfast in her idea.
I had never ventured outside Madras till I got married and moved to Gurgaon. But I kind of liked that place... though there is nothing much to do apart from the Malls. We kind of felt bored occasionally, but we definitely didn't dislike it.
But I guess it is different with Delhi and Mumbai. People who are used to Delhi will not take to Mumbai and vice versa. Atleast that is what C says... he did his MBA in Mumbai and I think next to Chennai he likes that city a lot. I have never visited the place yet and from all the tales C tells of his college, the trains, the fast pace of life, vada-pav and cutting chai :-), I would like to see it some time...
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Auto Ride
I was spared some four times from getting crushed under a speeding vehicle last night. (OK C, if you are reading this, don't get agitated. I didn't tell you last night because you were already exhausted after a very tiring day.)
Travelling back and forth between office and home is becoming increasingly difficult. I left my workplace about 7.30 last evening and since I was sapped, decided against the bus and took an auto. And from the second that I boarded, it was a non-stop thrill ride. The driver had absolutely no lane sense. Cutting across lanes like he owned the road, I remember my heart skipping a beat many a times!
I repeatedly asked him to slow down but he was nonchalant to my protests. At one point I completely lost it. He had coolly driven on the other side of the lane with traffic coming head on, just so that he can take the signal first. After he heard some choicest foul words from few passing motorists, I gave him some gyaan.
When I first asked him to slow down, he asked me - 'why madam are you scared?'
I felt my temper raising, but I held it back and asked him how he felt about his own driving. I told him he (and the passenger!) won't be lucky every single time. An extra 5 minutes is NOT a big deal when the other option is to get squashed like a bee. Why wouldn't auto drivers be the most hated folks of the public transport system? If someone collides with your auto, how can you complain when you are clearly on the wrong side of the road?
I spoke rapidly and with real passion and he was quite for a few seconds and then said 'Sorry madam, I will drive carefully.' I thought he was just being sarcastic but he did drive like a sane man after my short lecture. He again said, 'I realize madam, I will drive slowly...' I said, it is for your own good that I told you.
I was glad I reached home in one piece.
This driver, I noted, had terribly crossed eyes. I was left wondering what the requirement for eyesight was before issuing a driving permit.
Travelling back and forth between office and home is becoming increasingly difficult. I left my workplace about 7.30 last evening and since I was sapped, decided against the bus and took an auto. And from the second that I boarded, it was a non-stop thrill ride. The driver had absolutely no lane sense. Cutting across lanes like he owned the road, I remember my heart skipping a beat many a times!
I repeatedly asked him to slow down but he was nonchalant to my protests. At one point I completely lost it. He had coolly driven on the other side of the lane with traffic coming head on, just so that he can take the signal first. After he heard some choicest foul words from few passing motorists, I gave him some gyaan.
When I first asked him to slow down, he asked me - 'why madam are you scared?'
I felt my temper raising, but I held it back and asked him how he felt about his own driving. I told him he (and the passenger!) won't be lucky every single time. An extra 5 minutes is NOT a big deal when the other option is to get squashed like a bee. Why wouldn't auto drivers be the most hated folks of the public transport system? If someone collides with your auto, how can you complain when you are clearly on the wrong side of the road?
I spoke rapidly and with real passion and he was quite for a few seconds and then said 'Sorry madam, I will drive carefully.' I thought he was just being sarcastic but he did drive like a sane man after my short lecture. He again said, 'I realize madam, I will drive slowly...' I said, it is for your own good that I told you.
I was glad I reached home in one piece.
This driver, I noted, had terribly crossed eyes. I was left wondering what the requirement for eyesight was before issuing a driving permit.
Monday, February 9, 2009
My Best Friend's Wedding
was on Sunday, Feb 8th. I was really very happy to see her after some 6 years or so!
S is a dentist and is now the wife of a Doctor, Major. I feel proud and happy. I wish her a very happy, fulfilling and peaceful married life.
I hardly had any close friends. I had a few during my early school days and a couple of them in high school. S was one of them. I have to confess this friendship started from her first. While I was naive or rather stupid expecting few other girls to be my friends, who actually turned out pretty nasty, S was constantly by my side always giving me strength to cope with the new-school blues and the curt behaviour of some. I took time to warm up to her but slowly she turned out to be my best buddy in school. Ironically, we lost touch for many yrs and this helped reach out to her again. And from then on, it has been like before.
And in preparing to attend the wedding, I made my first purchase of 'make-up' :-)
Found a Health and Body shop near our place and it was a rather quick and impulsive buy. I detest going to these shops because of my fear of being ridiculed (!) at my lack of knowledge on cosmetics and the like. However, the staff manning this shop were pretty friendly. I made no bones about the fact that I knew nothing of foundation, compact and all that jazz. I asked her point blank what I needed to do and she very patiently explained it to me. After checking the prices of a few things, I decided to buy myself a Lakme compact and a nail enamel. Ha!
S is a dentist and is now the wife of a Doctor, Major. I feel proud and happy. I wish her a very happy, fulfilling and peaceful married life.
I hardly had any close friends. I had a few during my early school days and a couple of them in high school. S was one of them. I have to confess this friendship started from her first. While I was naive or rather stupid expecting few other girls to be my friends, who actually turned out pretty nasty, S was constantly by my side always giving me strength to cope with the new-school blues and the curt behaviour of some. I took time to warm up to her but slowly she turned out to be my best buddy in school. Ironically, we lost touch for many yrs and this helped reach out to her again. And from then on, it has been like before.
And in preparing to attend the wedding, I made my first purchase of 'make-up' :-)
Found a Health and Body shop near our place and it was a rather quick and impulsive buy. I detest going to these shops because of my fear of being ridiculed (!) at my lack of knowledge on cosmetics and the like. However, the staff manning this shop were pretty friendly. I made no bones about the fact that I knew nothing of foundation, compact and all that jazz. I asked her point blank what I needed to do and she very patiently explained it to me. After checking the prices of a few things, I decided to buy myself a Lakme compact and a nail enamel. Ha!
Friday, February 6, 2009
Agony
Does a woman attain nirvana when she produces a child? Is that the culmination of her feminineness? Is it her purpose upon this earth to see to that she produces offsprings? Are thoughts such as these detrimental to my health?? Am in such anguish right now. I so detest seeing this 'so and so blessed with a baby' mail in my official inbox. Really, am not bad, even if I say so myself. But at times it just feels like someone is driving a nail through my heart. I don't want to envy anybody.. but please god, give me some peace of mind. I don't want to sob like this, sitting in office.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Temptations
I just finished lunch.
Across my table sits a small snack box. Containing classic salted banana chips, Sarakara Upperi (banana chips coated with jaggery and ginger powder) and Sihili (Ellu Urundai ie, sesame seeds roasted, powdered and mixed with jaggery and made in the form of small balls)
I resolve to eat it only (at least) after an hour. And by the time it takes me to type these lines, I have tasted the Upperi!
What do I do? Oh! what do I do?
Across my table sits a small snack box. Containing classic salted banana chips, Sarakara Upperi (banana chips coated with jaggery and ginger powder) and Sihili (Ellu Urundai ie, sesame seeds roasted, powdered and mixed with jaggery and made in the form of small balls)
I resolve to eat it only (at least) after an hour. And by the time it takes me to type these lines, I have tasted the Upperi!
What do I do? Oh! what do I do?
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Weekend Notes III
Finally some fodder for a post! Hope all of you had a nice relaxing long weekend. Ours was good too. Saturday was spent at home - cleaning, washing and the works. BIL (call him A) arrived saturday evening and the rest of the time was spent chatting and eating!
Sunday morning we woke up early (OK - by 6.45) and after having some oatmeal, mounted the bike to go on a long ride. BIL took his and C&I on the new FZ. We first went to the beach(Marina), rode further along and reached the Besant Nagar beach and then went further ahead to Foreshore Estate, Adyar, reached OMR and all the way till Sholinganallur(a little further than that)! It was such a beautiful ride... the air was so clean, unpolluted and slightly chilly that it made for a perfect weather. We swapped bikes on the return took a detour to Velachery on OMR and reached home by 9.30 or so. Some 50 kms. we had travelled.
Had some snacks and watched the Australian Open match between Federer and Berdych. What a match it was. We were to go out for lunch and I desperately wished for a TMF win (to be in a nice frame of mind) and finally he won in 5 sets!
We took A to Osteria again ;-) and as usual had a fabulous lunch. On our way back, C asked us if we wanted to go somewhere else. In spite of being in Chennai for so long, I haven't really been to many places. Even places like Mylapore are 'new' to me. C on the other hand knows the city better than his wardrobe! He and my father can work for Google maps. I am sure they can give directions to any place, no matter what your mode of conveyance is. While C is very good with the public transport systems, my dad can give driving directions like a pro.
Now, C has lived in the Mandaveli area for quite some years. So he decided to show me the place where they had a house. We parked the car and walked into a nice small lane lined on both sides with houses and shops. C & A were thrilled to see the place after so many years and I was enjoying their happiness :-) After reminiscing the past, we all headed back to the car and decided to drive all the way to Adyar to see C's school, St.Patricks (where he did his 11th and 12th). Being a Sunday, it was closed. But what a magnificent campus it has! Such a serene place with huge trees and lots of open space, right behind Adyar river... it was splendid. If only the authorities took care of the river and remove the stench, it simply will be terrific.
We chatted with the watchman and C was inquiring about the present and past teachers. Finally, we took some photos outside the school and left with C feeling rather nostalgic. We thought we'd head home but on the way, I spotted the Birla Planetarium. We've been wanting to go there for quite some time and so decided impromptu to check it out. We reached there by 3.50 or so and a show had started by 3.45. But since there was quite a crowd, they announced a special show at 4.30.
We bought the tickets - it was a package of Rs.45 each, included entry, a 3D 'science' movie and the planetarium show, and ventured into the area. The 3D show was quite a disappointment. Well, I guess the 15-20 odd kids liked it, but it could have been a thousand times better. We were left wondering why they called it a 'science' movie. There was nothing scientific in it. Except of course the 3D techonolgy! It looked like they played some cheap video game (the kind that you get in a CD that comes along with PC world magazine). The first 5 minutes didn't make any sense. There was something like a rocket/missile launcher and the camera zoomed across, up and down into a series of tunnels and laboratory type rooms. The screen blanked out for a few seconds and the next scene was at a lab with a goofy scientist. Couldn't understand a word he spoke... it all sounded gibberish and mostly like the computer sound that you get on a casio keyboard. He tries to invent something when all goes wrong and he ends up 'inventing' a snake, skull and some tortoise-like aliens! Oh, it was such crap. The snake and skull kind of come into 3D and that bit was interesting, but on the whole it was way below average.
This show ended in 15 minutes and we moved across to the hall for the 4.30 show. It was almost 4.50 by the time they started. The main show was good. Atleast they had kept it current w.r.t Pluto's planetary status and newly found heavenly bodies. There was no mention of Chandrayaan. Again, it could have been much better.
After the show, we went around the science park located within the campus. They had some interesting stuff but sadly most of them did not work and were damaged. We were left wondering why it lacked maintenance. Nevertheless, we tried out things that were functioning and it was actually hilarious. Finally, it was time to return home after a totally unplanned but fun-filled outing.
Sunday morning we woke up early (OK - by 6.45) and after having some oatmeal, mounted the bike to go on a long ride. BIL took his and C&I on the new FZ. We first went to the beach(Marina), rode further along and reached the Besant Nagar beach and then went further ahead to Foreshore Estate, Adyar, reached OMR and all the way till Sholinganallur(a little further than that)! It was such a beautiful ride... the air was so clean, unpolluted and slightly chilly that it made for a perfect weather. We swapped bikes on the return took a detour to Velachery on OMR and reached home by 9.30 or so. Some 50 kms. we had travelled.
Had some snacks and watched the Australian Open match between Federer and Berdych. What a match it was. We were to go out for lunch and I desperately wished for a TMF win (to be in a nice frame of mind) and finally he won in 5 sets!
We took A to Osteria again ;-) and as usual had a fabulous lunch. On our way back, C asked us if we wanted to go somewhere else. In spite of being in Chennai for so long, I haven't really been to many places. Even places like Mylapore are 'new' to me. C on the other hand knows the city better than his wardrobe! He and my father can work for Google maps. I am sure they can give directions to any place, no matter what your mode of conveyance is. While C is very good with the public transport systems, my dad can give driving directions like a pro.
Now, C has lived in the Mandaveli area for quite some years. So he decided to show me the place where they had a house. We parked the car and walked into a nice small lane lined on both sides with houses and shops. C & A were thrilled to see the place after so many years and I was enjoying their happiness :-) After reminiscing the past, we all headed back to the car and decided to drive all the way to Adyar to see C's school, St.Patricks (where he did his 11th and 12th). Being a Sunday, it was closed. But what a magnificent campus it has! Such a serene place with huge trees and lots of open space, right behind Adyar river... it was splendid. If only the authorities took care of the river and remove the stench, it simply will be terrific.
We chatted with the watchman and C was inquiring about the present and past teachers. Finally, we took some photos outside the school and left with C feeling rather nostalgic. We thought we'd head home but on the way, I spotted the Birla Planetarium. We've been wanting to go there for quite some time and so decided impromptu to check it out. We reached there by 3.50 or so and a show had started by 3.45. But since there was quite a crowd, they announced a special show at 4.30.
We bought the tickets - it was a package of Rs.45 each, included entry, a 3D 'science' movie and the planetarium show, and ventured into the area. The 3D show was quite a disappointment. Well, I guess the 15-20 odd kids liked it, but it could have been a thousand times better. We were left wondering why they called it a 'science' movie. There was nothing scientific in it. Except of course the 3D techonolgy! It looked like they played some cheap video game (the kind that you get in a CD that comes along with PC world magazine). The first 5 minutes didn't make any sense. There was something like a rocket/missile launcher and the camera zoomed across, up and down into a series of tunnels and laboratory type rooms. The screen blanked out for a few seconds and the next scene was at a lab with a goofy scientist. Couldn't understand a word he spoke... it all sounded gibberish and mostly like the computer sound that you get on a casio keyboard. He tries to invent something when all goes wrong and he ends up 'inventing' a snake, skull and some tortoise-like aliens! Oh, it was such crap. The snake and skull kind of come into 3D and that bit was interesting, but on the whole it was way below average.
This show ended in 15 minutes and we moved across to the hall for the 4.30 show. It was almost 4.50 by the time they started. The main show was good. Atleast they had kept it current w.r.t Pluto's planetary status and newly found heavenly bodies. There was no mention of Chandrayaan. Again, it could have been much better.
After the show, we went around the science park located within the campus. They had some interesting stuff but sadly most of them did not work and were damaged. We were left wondering why it lacked maintenance. Nevertheless, we tried out things that were functioning and it was actually hilarious. Finally, it was time to return home after a totally unplanned but fun-filled outing.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Dakshina Chitra
After reading about this place in many blogs, I thought we should visit it one weekend. Dakshina Chitra or Picture of the South as they call it, is situated right next to MGM Dizee world on the ECR. It is a nice little quaint place that has the various types of houses found within Tamilnadu and also, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhrapradesh. Apart from that, there are some craft shops, a nice amphitheater, some 'learn to paint/stitch/weave' set-ups, lots of trees and open space to generally walk around.
By reading through the various placards we came to know that some of the traditional houses they had there, were authentic stuff from villages and how it had been transported and preserved to serve as a model.
There were lots of small playthings on sale at each of the model houses. At one of them was the Bambaram! When I saw the colorful top being sold I immediately thought C would love it, and there, I could see his eyes lit up! He spun it there many times and dad too joined to try his hand at it! It was all good fun. Mom and I could not get to spin the top on its nail tip and it instead twirled on its head!
On the whole, it was a nice change to learn about the various types of architecture, types of fabric, designs, religious beliefs, see some folk dance with 'Tappatai' and also a dance show in the open air theater.
However, I felt that the place could be made more colorful and lively. After having been to Choki Dhani in Jaipur many times, this place somehow lacked that zest and vigor. Also, only Tamilnadu and Kerala was well represented in terms of the types of houses while Karnataka and AP had just one or two models. Though they were very neatly maintained, they looked kind of abandoned and there was hardly a soul to explain what certain artifacts meant.
Some things that I thought will give more character to the place:
Get men/women of respective cities/castes to have a small food stall showcasing their traditional fare. Nothing draws people like some well-made delicious food!!
Some more game stalls. Like a bow&arrow game, or a dart board...
Music and Dance - Hire some more artists and have a mini stage for them to perform. Anything from Karagattam to 'Poi Kaal Kudhirai' dance.
Some more Action - maybe Silambattam, Kalaripayattu and other traditional martial arts from the other southern states.
If they can implement some of these and market this place well, it is truly a wonderful tourist spot!
And on Saturday, C and I visited Osteria again! I think it was the second outing for us after this. One of the things that I miss occasionally, after moving to Chennai, is the time I get to spend with C exclusively! Almost every weekend we seem to have visitors and staying just next to my parents' doesn't make it any easier for us to venture out as a couple often. We mostly take them along where ever we go and not under any compulsion but just that we truly enjoy spending time with everybody. But once in a while, I would like to savour some quality time with C and Saturday's lunch at Osteria was one such. The food being excellent we had a good time devouring every bit of it :-) We were so satiated that I almost skipped dinner.
Had a nice weekend overall. Spent time with C and also with family. (Rhyme unintended!)
By reading through the various placards we came to know that some of the traditional houses they had there, were authentic stuff from villages and how it had been transported and preserved to serve as a model.
There were lots of small playthings on sale at each of the model houses. At one of them was the Bambaram! When I saw the colorful top being sold I immediately thought C would love it, and there, I could see his eyes lit up! He spun it there many times and dad too joined to try his hand at it! It was all good fun. Mom and I could not get to spin the top on its nail tip and it instead twirled on its head!
On the whole, it was a nice change to learn about the various types of architecture, types of fabric, designs, religious beliefs, see some folk dance with 'Tappatai' and also a dance show in the open air theater.
However, I felt that the place could be made more colorful and lively. After having been to Choki Dhani in Jaipur many times, this place somehow lacked that zest and vigor. Also, only Tamilnadu and Kerala was well represented in terms of the types of houses while Karnataka and AP had just one or two models. Though they were very neatly maintained, they looked kind of abandoned and there was hardly a soul to explain what certain artifacts meant.
Some things that I thought will give more character to the place:
Get men/women of respective cities/castes to have a small food stall showcasing their traditional fare. Nothing draws people like some well-made delicious food!!
Some more game stalls. Like a bow&arrow game, or a dart board...
Music and Dance - Hire some more artists and have a mini stage for them to perform. Anything from Karagattam to 'Poi Kaal Kudhirai' dance.
Some more Action - maybe Silambattam, Kalaripayattu and other traditional martial arts from the other southern states.
If they can implement some of these and market this place well, it is truly a wonderful tourist spot!
And on Saturday, C and I visited Osteria again! I think it was the second outing for us after this. One of the things that I miss occasionally, after moving to Chennai, is the time I get to spend with C exclusively! Almost every weekend we seem to have visitors and staying just next to my parents' doesn't make it any easier for us to venture out as a couple often. We mostly take them along where ever we go and not under any compulsion but just that we truly enjoy spending time with everybody. But once in a while, I would like to savour some quality time with C and Saturday's lunch at Osteria was one such. The food being excellent we had a good time devouring every bit of it :-) We were so satiated that I almost skipped dinner.
Had a nice weekend overall. Spent time with C and also with family. (Rhyme unintended!)
Friday, January 2, 2009
Welcome 2009
Wish you all a very happy, healthy, prosperous and peaceful New Year.
Hope all our cherished dreams come true and hope this year is a pleasant one filled with happiness and joy, success and contentment.
The first new addition to the family for us is a brand new bike... C finally convinced me [;)] and so we went ahead and booked a Yamaha FZ. The bike arrives today.
So, Go C! Happy biking!! :-)
Hope all our cherished dreams come true and hope this year is a pleasant one filled with happiness and joy, success and contentment.
The first new addition to the family for us is a brand new bike... C finally convinced me [;)] and so we went ahead and booked a Yamaha FZ. The bike arrives today.
So, Go C! Happy biking!! :-)
Friday, December 19, 2008
Surprise your Dear One
This is a nice gift to your dear ones.
Swanky watches, iPods and gadgets are always an option, but somehow the thrill, the joy and the satisfaction of knowing that some 100 kids will have a nice lunch and at the same time thank you and remember you on that day is just priceless!
Go ahead! Try it. I surprised my dear one today.
Clueless I was when I first saw you,
How my life would change forever and for good,
Another lifetime I ask the creator to provide,
Never enough for my love that'll never subside
Doing everyday-little things with you is bliss,
Ripens our bond and for that, I blow you a kiss
And, thank you for all that you are to me, Happy Birthday my dearest C!!
Swanky watches, iPods and gadgets are always an option, but somehow the thrill, the joy and the satisfaction of knowing that some 100 kids will have a nice lunch and at the same time thank you and remember you on that day is just priceless!
Go ahead! Try it. I surprised my dear one today.
Clueless I was when I first saw you,
How my life would change forever and for good,
Another lifetime I ask the creator to provide,
Never enough for my love that'll never subside
Doing everyday-little things with you is bliss,
Ripens our bond and for that, I blow you a kiss
And, thank you for all that you are to me, Happy Birthday my dearest C!!
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
The Garbage Truck & the Wise Driver
One day I hopped into a taxi and we took off to the airport. We were driving in the right lane when suddenly a black car jumped out of a parking space right in front of us. My taxi driver slammed on his brakes, skidded and missed the other car by just inches! The driver of the other car whipped his head around and started yelling at us. My taxi driver just smiled and waved at the guy and I mean, he was really friendly.
So I asked, 'Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined your car and sent us to the hospital!'
This is when my taxi driver taught me what I now call, 'The Law of the Garbage Truck.'
He explained that many people are like garbage trucks. They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger and full of disappointment. As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it and sometimes they'll dump it on you. Don't take it personally. Just smile, wave, wish them well and move on. Don't take their garbage and spread it on to other people at work, at home, or on the streets.
The bottom line is that successful people do not let garbage trucks take over their day.
Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets, so..... 'Love the people who treat you right.
Pray for the ones who don't - that they see the wisdom of their foolish ways'
Life is ten percent what you make it and ninety percent how you take it!
Got this in my mail box and thought of sharing it...
So I asked, 'Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined your car and sent us to the hospital!'
This is when my taxi driver taught me what I now call, 'The Law of the Garbage Truck.'
He explained that many people are like garbage trucks. They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger and full of disappointment. As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it and sometimes they'll dump it on you. Don't take it personally. Just smile, wave, wish them well and move on. Don't take their garbage and spread it on to other people at work, at home, or on the streets.
The bottom line is that successful people do not let garbage trucks take over their day.
Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets, so..... 'Love the people who treat you right.
Pray for the ones who don't - that they see the wisdom of their foolish ways'
Life is ten percent what you make it and ninety percent how you take it!
Got this in my mail box and thought of sharing it...
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Yay! Awarded!
I have to admit I always imagined getting one of those blog awards :-) It makes one feel very content and accepted. And, as I logged into my blog this morning, I see that I have indeed been awarded!
Gracious Art has bestowed on me, my very first blog award! Yippee.
It is called the Proximity award
and here is what it means:
This award is given to a blog that invests and believes in PROXIMITY - nearness in space, time and relationships! These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in prizes or self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers! Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award.
I guess I should pass this award to 8 more people. I can pass it to many more (all the blogs in my reader), but I will mention the two that I really want to thank.
One is Art herself, for being the sole commentator on my posts thereby encouraging me not to abandon the blog.
And another is Timepass - She did something that really touched me. So, I want to thank her for that.
Thank you, Once again.
Gracious Art has bestowed on me, my very first blog award! Yippee.
It is called the Proximity award
and here is what it means:
This award is given to a blog that invests and believes in PROXIMITY - nearness in space, time and relationships! These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in prizes or self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers! Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award.
I guess I should pass this award to 8 more people. I can pass it to many more (all the blogs in my reader), but I will mention the two that I really want to thank.
One is Art herself, for being the sole commentator on my posts thereby encouraging me not to abandon the blog.
And another is Timepass - She did something that really touched me. So, I want to thank her for that.
Thank you, Once again.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
International Day of Disabled Persons
December 3 is observed as International Day of Disabled Persons.
Let us try to do our bit by helping the differently abled. Even small gestures as helping them cross a busy road will go a long way.
Let us try to do our bit by helping the differently abled. Even small gestures as helping them cross a busy road will go a long way.
Pete on Federer
I am a huge Roger Federer fan. In fact him losing the Wimbledon should feature in the list of disasters of 2008!
Pete Sampras talks about Federer and Nadal and he says:
"It will be interesting to see what happens with Nadal next year," said the
37-year-old. "The amount of work he has to do to stay on top and stay healthy - I think that's where Roger has a bit of an advantage because it takes a lot less
energy for Roger to stay on top than Nadal.
"Rafa's strung so tight and the guy is an absolute animal. He puts so much effort into each point that eventually something will break. "There's a certain grind that he goes through, unlike Roger who is a lot more fluid and wins matches a lot easier.
"But when you're the best player in the world and people are gunning for you
year after year, that's when it takes its toll and it'll be interesting to see
how he handles that."
Finally, someone has spoken exactly what was on my mind.
Pete Sampras talks about Federer and Nadal and he says:
"It will be interesting to see what happens with Nadal next year," said the
37-year-old. "The amount of work he has to do to stay on top and stay healthy - I think that's where Roger has a bit of an advantage because it takes a lot less
energy for Roger to stay on top than Nadal.
"Rafa's strung so tight and the guy is an absolute animal. He puts so much effort into each point that eventually something will break. "There's a certain grind that he goes through, unlike Roger who is a lot more fluid and wins matches a lot easier.
"But when you're the best player in the world and people are gunning for you
year after year, that's when it takes its toll and it'll be interesting to see
how he handles that."
Finally, someone has spoken exactly what was on my mind.
Terror Fear
Yesterday I was in office by 9.15 or so. There were hardly 5 or 6 other people as people only start trickling in by 10.30 or so.
My seat is closer to the entrance and the office space is one huge hall with the restrooms and a small pantry room on the other side of the hall.
As I was sitting contemplating the day's work ahead I was suddenly engulfed by some sense of deep fear! What if some terrorists barged into the office? I know there were few security personnel downstairs checking the identity of anyone entering the premises. Also, I sit on the 6th floor. But still! What if they mercilessly shoot them down and take siege of the building? What should I do? Where will I hide? Under the desk? Nah! That is too obvious. Isn't that the place everyone chooses to hide? Won't those well-trained terrorist know that much? Can I run all the way across the hall to the emergency exit? Should I crawl across the floor and hide behind the stored cartons containing some newly arrived printers and servers? What about the steel bureau right across my desk? What about the wood and glass bookshelf next to it? Can I nudge it a little forward and creep behind it? My stomach was churning and my mind was racing! Trrring..... I hear a huge beep and mobile starts vibrating... C calls. I snap back to reality. Phew!
My seat is closer to the entrance and the office space is one huge hall with the restrooms and a small pantry room on the other side of the hall.
As I was sitting contemplating the day's work ahead I was suddenly engulfed by some sense of deep fear! What if some terrorists barged into the office? I know there were few security personnel downstairs checking the identity of anyone entering the premises. Also, I sit on the 6th floor. But still! What if they mercilessly shoot them down and take siege of the building? What should I do? Where will I hide? Under the desk? Nah! That is too obvious. Isn't that the place everyone chooses to hide? Won't those well-trained terrorist know that much? Can I run all the way across the hall to the emergency exit? Should I crawl across the floor and hide behind the stored cartons containing some newly arrived printers and servers? What about the steel bureau right across my desk? What about the wood and glass bookshelf next to it? Can I nudge it a little forward and creep behind it? My stomach was churning and my mind was racing! Trrring..... I hear a huge beep and mobile starts vibrating... C calls. I snap back to reality. Phew!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
2008
The last month of this so-far dreadful year has come. I really want to get this over with. Perhaps the personal loss we suffered makes me see only the negatives this year...here are some terrible incidents (few personal and many other natural and man-made disasters) that took place.
April - Great personal loss. Lost my baby when I was 16 weeks pregnant.
May - Blasts in Jaipur (a city that I have begun to love, thanks to the frequent trips that we made while in Gurgaon)
May - Sichuan (in China) Earthquake of magnitude 8.0 M
July - Blasts in Bangalore and Ahmedabad
August - One of my Perippa (my mom's elder sister's husband) passes away
September - Blasts in New Delhi in GK II and Connaught Place area
September - Blasts in Malegaon
October - Another perippa passes away!
October - Blasts in Tripura and Manipur
October - Blasts in Assam
November - Terror Attacks in Mumbai
Not to mention the economic downturn.
These are just few of the ghastly incidents that took place over this year. Especially in India. I don't even want to attempt listing down WW happenings!
I really pray for all those who lost their lives. Especially for my beloved baby. I miss you so much.
The heart is heavy and the mind is numb,
Seeing the loss, bloodshed and apathy, am dumb.
But what is life without hope and so I pray to you,
Please give us a happy, healthy, peaceful year and help us start a fresh life anew
April - Great personal loss. Lost my baby when I was 16 weeks pregnant.
May - Blasts in Jaipur (a city that I have begun to love, thanks to the frequent trips that we made while in Gurgaon)
May - Sichuan (in China) Earthquake of magnitude 8.0 M
July - Blasts in Bangalore and Ahmedabad
August - One of my Perippa (my mom's elder sister's husband) passes away
September - Blasts in New Delhi in GK II and Connaught Place area
September - Blasts in Malegaon
October - Another perippa passes away!
October - Blasts in Tripura and Manipur
October - Blasts in Assam
November - Terror Attacks in Mumbai
Not to mention the economic downturn.
These are just few of the ghastly incidents that took place over this year. Especially in India. I don't even want to attempt listing down WW happenings!
I really pray for all those who lost their lives. Especially for my beloved baby. I miss you so much.
The heart is heavy and the mind is numb,
Seeing the loss, bloodshed and apathy, am dumb.
But what is life without hope and so I pray to you,
Please give us a happy, healthy, peaceful year and help us start a fresh life anew
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Terror Attack
Yet another incident to this already dreadful year!
I wish, that may (at least) the soul of all those kids, women and men who were killed by the terror attacks in Mumbai, rest in peace.
I wish, we as a country did something, anything to prove to those militants that they can't get away with this.
I wish, the politicians for once, will set aside their differences and join hands to pulverize each and every terrorist who did this.
I wish, that may (at least) the soul of all those kids, women and men who were killed by the terror attacks in Mumbai, rest in peace.
I wish, we as a country did something, anything to prove to those militants that they can't get away with this.
I wish, the politicians for once, will set aside their differences and join hands to pulverize each and every terrorist who did this.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
A trip to Villupuram
Yet another action-packed weekend it was. Most of Saturday was spent at home, cleaning and shopping for veggies. The B-I-L arrived late evening as we had to attend a betrothal ceremony in Vizhupuram on Sunday. We got to bed by 10 to rest well so that we can start by 4.30 the next morning. But we just tossed and turned and couldn't sleep much and finally woke up by 4AM. We got ready by 5 or so, had some oatmeal and also stocked up a lot of biscuits, corn-puffs, fryums and other items for snacking and got everything into the car and started by 5.30!
It started raining soon after we started and it was pouring very heavily till Vandalur. It was still quite dark and with the rains lashing down furiously, we were quite skeptical if we could make it to the function on time (the ceremony was to commence by 7.45).
But once we reached the National Highway, there was no sign of rain though it was cloudy. But the sun was rising and with the smooth road ahead it was just perfect! The air was cool, almost chilly and as we were zipping across the highway it was sublime. The highway (NH4) is maintained extremely well. The entire stretch till Tindivanam is as smooth as silk! Listening to some wonderful music, eating, chatting and laughing, we drove along the road merrily.
I can't stop gushing at the wonderful sights that awaited us. Lush green fields, mighty hills with the clouds caressing its tops, little hamlets on the side roads... it was blissful.
The road after Tinidvanam (incidentally the point after the last toll gate) is not very good. It is not too bad either, but we had to reduce our speed drastically to 50-60kmph or so. After some phone calls to the relatives present at the mandapam, we finally reached the place by 8 or so, to be welcomed by so many smiling and excited faces.
C's dad's family is a big one. My F-I-L has 3 brothers and 4 sisters. All are married and have kids. So, you can imagine the number of cousins C has. There was a lot of singing and dancing going on and we had a great time with everyone. Had a nice lunch and spent another 2 hours lazing around the hall. We were the only family left and the cleaners made it obvious that they wanted us to vacate so that they can set right the hall for the next day! So, finally everyone packed their bags and it was decided that we visit Lord Muruga at Mailam. Mailam is the 'Kula Deivam' for us. This was the first time I was visiting it. It is situated on top of a small hill that you can drive up to. Had a very nice darshan and after bidding farewell to all the chithappas, chithis and cousins we began our journey to Chennai by 5 in the evening.
After yet another excellent ride together with some soul-stirring old tamil film music, we reached Tambaram by 6.15 or so. From there it was a crawl due to some heavy traffic. Dropped Fil, Mil and Bil at their house and we drove back to our home.
It was almost 8 by the time we reached home and directly went to my Mom's place for dinner and we went to bed by 10.30 or so. We slept like logs!
Woke up by 9.30 or so and didn't feel like budging out of the bed. I coaxed, cajoled and pleaded C to take the day off. He too agreed and voila! it was a wonderful day to spend with C at home. I connected from home but there was hardly any work to do... so we had a leisurely lunch and were just idling around. C had some work in the afternoon and since we were expecting some guests in the evening, I started thinking about dinner preparations.
I started cooking around 5 or so. Prepared Spicy Mushroom-Peas Gravy, Veg Fried Rice, Raitha and Mom quickly prepared Kesari laden with raisins and almonds! We had our first real guests on Monday. Again, we immensely enjoyed the time we spent with them. They all really liked the food and praised me amply :-)
Again after a thoroughly enjoyable and also exhausting day we hit the bed by 11. So, that was how our extended weekend was spent.
It started raining soon after we started and it was pouring very heavily till Vandalur. It was still quite dark and with the rains lashing down furiously, we were quite skeptical if we could make it to the function on time (the ceremony was to commence by 7.45).
But once we reached the National Highway, there was no sign of rain though it was cloudy. But the sun was rising and with the smooth road ahead it was just perfect! The air was cool, almost chilly and as we were zipping across the highway it was sublime. The highway (NH4) is maintained extremely well. The entire stretch till Tindivanam is as smooth as silk! Listening to some wonderful music, eating, chatting and laughing, we drove along the road merrily.
I can't stop gushing at the wonderful sights that awaited us. Lush green fields, mighty hills with the clouds caressing its tops, little hamlets on the side roads... it was blissful.
The road after Tinidvanam (incidentally the point after the last toll gate) is not very good. It is not too bad either, but we had to reduce our speed drastically to 50-60kmph or so. After some phone calls to the relatives present at the mandapam, we finally reached the place by 8 or so, to be welcomed by so many smiling and excited faces.
C's dad's family is a big one. My F-I-L has 3 brothers and 4 sisters. All are married and have kids. So, you can imagine the number of cousins C has. There was a lot of singing and dancing going on and we had a great time with everyone. Had a nice lunch and spent another 2 hours lazing around the hall. We were the only family left and the cleaners made it obvious that they wanted us to vacate so that they can set right the hall for the next day! So, finally everyone packed their bags and it was decided that we visit Lord Muruga at Mailam. Mailam is the 'Kula Deivam' for us. This was the first time I was visiting it. It is situated on top of a small hill that you can drive up to. Had a very nice darshan and after bidding farewell to all the chithappas, chithis and cousins we began our journey to Chennai by 5 in the evening.
After yet another excellent ride together with some soul-stirring old tamil film music, we reached Tambaram by 6.15 or so. From there it was a crawl due to some heavy traffic. Dropped Fil, Mil and Bil at their house and we drove back to our home.
It was almost 8 by the time we reached home and directly went to my Mom's place for dinner and we went to bed by 10.30 or so. We slept like logs!
Woke up by 9.30 or so and didn't feel like budging out of the bed. I coaxed, cajoled and pleaded C to take the day off. He too agreed and voila! it was a wonderful day to spend with C at home. I connected from home but there was hardly any work to do... so we had a leisurely lunch and were just idling around. C had some work in the afternoon and since we were expecting some guests in the evening, I started thinking about dinner preparations.
I started cooking around 5 or so. Prepared Spicy Mushroom-Peas Gravy, Veg Fried Rice, Raitha and Mom quickly prepared Kesari laden with raisins and almonds! We had our first real guests on Monday. Again, we immensely enjoyed the time we spent with them. They all really liked the food and praised me amply :-)
Again after a thoroughly enjoyable and also exhausting day we hit the bed by 11. So, that was how our extended weekend was spent.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
A Bus Ride and Car Re-Registration
After almost 6 or 7 years, I travelled by the MTC bus! I mostly work from home (WFH) and drop into office occasionally. Tuesday was one such day. I still don't know many people in this new office and have just one or two people for company. So, I checked with one of the colleagues and she too wanted to leave by 5 in the evening. Took a 'Share auto' from office to reach the bus stop and then boarded a bus to reach home. It cost me less than Rs 10. If I had taken an auto like I usually do, it would have cost me Rs 80. Gulp! Guilt.
There are so many new buses that have been introduced. My colleague apprised me on the variety. A normal white board, yellow board, Express and Air-conditioned buses with automatic doors! Wow! While we were waiting for our bus, I got to see a brand new A/C bus and it looked very sophisticated. The driver was wearing a khaki uniform with a neat peaked cap! I so wanted to board it, but unfortunately it was not going anywhere near my destination.
But then huddling together with 4 or 5 other people in a medium sized auto, what with the bulky laptop bag and lunch bag, and not to mention the crowded bus, again standing amidst all those jostling men and women... I don't mind the occasional 80 bucks. Unless I figure out the optimal time to take the bus. Maybe after 10 in the morning and return by 5 in the evening and then WFH... need to sort this out.
Now, after a couple of trips to the MCO (Most Corrupt Office)i.e the RTO, we paid the road tax and have obtained the receipt. Yay! Apparently, we can drive around with this, till we get our new number. I was amply warned by ArtNavy's post on re-registration. So we were kind of prepared for the routine. Since my dad knew someone who knew someone in the RTO, who in turn, knew someone else in car registration dept., things happened pretty fast. Of course we had to grease those already dirty hands! Thousands for tax and a few more thousands for the guy who moved the papers. I was seething with rage but C and dad told me that Anniyans and Indians happen only in movies! Sigh.
Anyway, there are 2 plays in Vani mahal this Sunday. Crazy's Chocolate Krishna at 4PM and SV Sekar's Vaal Paiyan at 7. Let us see if we are able to catch the latter. Need the weekend quota of laughter.
There are so many new buses that have been introduced. My colleague apprised me on the variety. A normal white board, yellow board, Express and Air-conditioned buses with automatic doors! Wow! While we were waiting for our bus, I got to see a brand new A/C bus and it looked very sophisticated. The driver was wearing a khaki uniform with a neat peaked cap! I so wanted to board it, but unfortunately it was not going anywhere near my destination.
But then huddling together with 4 or 5 other people in a medium sized auto, what with the bulky laptop bag and lunch bag, and not to mention the crowded bus, again standing amidst all those jostling men and women... I don't mind the occasional 80 bucks. Unless I figure out the optimal time to take the bus. Maybe after 10 in the morning and return by 5 in the evening and then WFH... need to sort this out.
Now, after a couple of trips to the MCO (Most Corrupt Office)i.e the RTO, we paid the road tax and have obtained the receipt. Yay! Apparently, we can drive around with this, till we get our new number. I was amply warned by ArtNavy's post on re-registration. So we were kind of prepared for the routine. Since my dad knew someone who knew someone in the RTO, who in turn, knew someone else in car registration dept., things happened pretty fast. Of course we had to grease those already dirty hands! Thousands for tax and a few more thousands for the guy who moved the papers. I was seething with rage but C and dad told me that Anniyans and Indians happen only in movies! Sigh.
Anyway, there are 2 plays in Vani mahal this Sunday. Crazy's Chocolate Krishna at 4PM and SV Sekar's Vaal Paiyan at 7. Let us see if we are able to catch the latter. Need the weekend quota of laughter.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Am Ashamed
I was quite irritable whole of last night and woke up this morning feeling a little better. Had some residual grouchiness but it slowly faded away. Thanks to C's persistent efforts to make me smile :-)
I don't know what made me feel so crabby. I only know it started soon after I saw that Law College incident on Sun News channel. What was that? Why were they behaving like barbarians? Why was the police (and media) just standing there without intervening? I don't want to go into this in more detail as I can feel my rage again... But, will these people EVER change? Don't tell me it happens everywhere... if it happens then that has to change as well. And No, I don't have any solution. I can only feel remorseful and cry my heart out. What I try is, to be as compassionate and tolerant as possible. That is all I can do.
That particular piece of violence agitated me so much and I couldn't sleep till 3 AM!! Combined with the fact that I am PMSing I was snappy and C had to bear my brunt. Sorry C, am really sorry.
I was working from home today. C pinged me asking me to go out and feel the pleasant and cool air...it was raining and he knew it would make feel better. And better I felt.
Work was light today, so I prepared Tofu Manchurian Soup and Mushroom-Peas pulao. C darling, it is for you. Hope you will like it. Am sorry for my abominable behaviour last night. But what to do? Blame it on the hormones!
I feel truly ashamed - of myself and of the state my country is degenerating into.
I don't know what made me feel so crabby. I only know it started soon after I saw that Law College incident on Sun News channel. What was that? Why were they behaving like barbarians? Why was the police (and media) just standing there without intervening? I don't want to go into this in more detail as I can feel my rage again... But, will these people EVER change? Don't tell me it happens everywhere... if it happens then that has to change as well. And No, I don't have any solution. I can only feel remorseful and cry my heart out. What I try is, to be as compassionate and tolerant as possible. That is all I can do.
That particular piece of violence agitated me so much and I couldn't sleep till 3 AM!! Combined with the fact that I am PMSing I was snappy and C had to bear my brunt. Sorry C, am really sorry.
I was working from home today. C pinged me asking me to go out and feel the pleasant and cool air...it was raining and he knew it would make feel better. And better I felt.
Work was light today, so I prepared Tofu Manchurian Soup and Mushroom-Peas pulao. C darling, it is for you. Hope you will like it. Am sorry for my abominable behaviour last night. But what to do? Blame it on the hormones!
I feel truly ashamed - of myself and of the state my country is degenerating into.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Weekend Notes II
While we were in Gurgaon our weekends were like this - Wake up late, lunch outside, laze around at home rest of the day, play badminton in the evening, Dinner, TV till late night. Maybe once in a month or two month we used to drop into a mall, window shop, eat some junk and head out. It was fun too, but after we moved to Chennai, the weekends have so much more activity, laughter, quality time that it is almost as hectic as a weekday but nevertheless, we enjoy it tremendously.
We woke up late Saturday (this trend hasn't changed much from Gurgaon ;-)) and immediately rushed to Pro-musicals to meet with a Guitar master.
Now, C started learning Guitar in Gurgaon and upon the master's insistence traded his Accoustic for a brand new Electric guitar and amplifier. C is musically gifted. He will protest at me for having said this. But I truly believe so. He has talent. The genuine, innate talent. I know he will make a fine guitarist (or for that matter a violinist or a singer as well). Also, having invested a bit heavily on such a nice piece of instrument, I really want him to join a good institute so that he can start his musical venture once again. We are scouring the internet, newspaper and other media on the lookout for a good music school. Came across a few and there is something or the other lacking. If the master is good, he is too busy. If the master is willing, the student doesn't find a rapport with him!
So, this master at Pro-musicals, a native of Nagaland(!), seemed nice and I think C also liked him. We decided it is better to start somewhere sooner than later and maybe after a month or two, we can re-evaluate it.
Had a late lunch and by 4 or so B-I-L (let's call him A) joined us. We soon left for our weekend veggie shopping. Also stopped by at Nilgiris and purchased a LOT of stuff. It was a mistake to take C and A along! They wanted to pick almost everything they could lay their hands on. Biscuits, Pasta, Soup Sachets, Beverages (they found Ragotine!), Tofu (B-I-L is a big protein freak!) and what not! So, we lugged everything back and reached home finally by 7 or so. Devoured all the assorted junk and I prepared pasta for dinner. After 10, C, A and I started our goofy session :-) I think no one can beat us at talking non-stop nonsense. Had a riot pulling A's leg and he in turn made us confess some of our pre-wedding secrets. It went on and on and on till 1 AM, after which we were too tired to talk or laugh and so finally hit the bed.
Sunday morning, I prepared lunch for 6 people. I think that's the largest for which I've cooked. Since we stay right next my mom's place, I have almost stopped cooking(!), so it was quite a deal for me ;-) Father-in-law joined us for lunch and I was beaming when the vendaikkai vathak-kozhumbu, onion-brinjal fry and rasam vanished in 15 minutes flat! It was very well liked and I felt sooo proud :-) I don't cook quite often, but when I do, I'd like to think I do it well. (Even if I say so myself ;-))
At 2.30 we four(C, A, F-I-L and I) left to visit C's cousin at the OTA (Officer's Training Academy). She did her Engineering in Mumbai and was selected for the Army (electronics and technical division). But they have a mandatory 1 year training at the OTA. She has already lost 3 kgs! Their routine starts at 4.30 in the morning and they hit the sack by 1 or so! Hardly 4 hrs of sleep a day!! But she seems to be enjoying the whole thing. It is such an inspiration to see her and the other cadets at the academy. Every time we visit her, the next day we religiously get on the exercise bike to get ride off a few calories. The motivation last a day or two before we are back to our routine. I guess seeing her twice a week will be a good idea. (Selfish reason)
Reached home by 5.30. I prepared some pani-puri and again we quickly gobbled up every bit of it. And then came the highlight of the day. We are suckers for S.Ve Sekar and Crazy Mohans' plays and went to Vani Mahal to see 'Chocolate Krishna Crazy's latest drama, it was uproarious! You can read the story gist from the link. It very much appealed to people of all ages. At one point the entire Sabha was laughing so hard that people started coughing! There is a bit where Maadhu's boss does a interview (the boss takes credit for Maadhu's work) and so Lord Krishna decides to help Maadhu. He casts his spell on the boss and so whenever the boss opens his mouth to answer the questions, he says whatever Maadhu speaks! (A bit like Bruce Almighty sequence) When the interviewer asks the boss his name, he says, my name is 'Bathroom-poren' (His name actually is Mathruboodham!!) Try as much as he can, he is unable to control his mouth and for the next 5 minutes the boss is done to bits with some whacky and embarrassing answers.
Some other jokes that had the audience in splits:
Naan British airways-la poren, nee?
Amma, naan alphonso-la poren.
Appa! adhu alphonso illa pa, Lufthansa!
Krishna faints after eating butter and says later: Naan evalavo butter saptirukken, but indha madhiri kandravi butter saptadhe illai!!
Maadhu: Krishna, ippo neeyum adult, butter is also adulterated!
Lord Krishna converts a dog into a man and when Maadhu introduces him and his uncle
Madhu says: Sir, ivaru parkathuku-dhan Man, actually, ivar oru Doberman!
I can't do justice to the jokes by typing them out. The speed with which Crazy and Madahu speak, it is best to see it live. Crazy has very diligently learnt some tricks and performs 'magic' like changing a simple black cloth into a nice screen with god print, retrieving a bouquet from a stick and some simple things like that but it sure captures the children's attention. It is definitely the best of Crazy's plays. Do watch it if you haven't already. Met Crazy after the show to praise the entire team's effort. He was as usual very humble.
So, after almost 2 hours of non-stop laughter, we headed home with a smile on our face and our hearts as light as feather. Of course it is true that, Laughter is the best medicine.
We woke up late Saturday (this trend hasn't changed much from Gurgaon ;-)) and immediately rushed to Pro-musicals to meet with a Guitar master.
Now, C started learning Guitar in Gurgaon and upon the master's insistence traded his Accoustic for a brand new Electric guitar and amplifier. C is musically gifted. He will protest at me for having said this. But I truly believe so. He has talent. The genuine, innate talent. I know he will make a fine guitarist (or for that matter a violinist or a singer as well). Also, having invested a bit heavily on such a nice piece of instrument, I really want him to join a good institute so that he can start his musical venture once again. We are scouring the internet, newspaper and other media on the lookout for a good music school. Came across a few and there is something or the other lacking. If the master is good, he is too busy. If the master is willing, the student doesn't find a rapport with him!
So, this master at Pro-musicals, a native of Nagaland(!), seemed nice and I think C also liked him. We decided it is better to start somewhere sooner than later and maybe after a month or two, we can re-evaluate it.
Had a late lunch and by 4 or so B-I-L (let's call him A) joined us. We soon left for our weekend veggie shopping. Also stopped by at Nilgiris and purchased a LOT of stuff. It was a mistake to take C and A along! They wanted to pick almost everything they could lay their hands on. Biscuits, Pasta, Soup Sachets, Beverages (they found Ragotine!), Tofu (B-I-L is a big protein freak!) and what not! So, we lugged everything back and reached home finally by 7 or so. Devoured all the assorted junk and I prepared pasta for dinner. After 10, C, A and I started our goofy session :-) I think no one can beat us at talking non-stop nonsense. Had a riot pulling A's leg and he in turn made us confess some of our pre-wedding secrets. It went on and on and on till 1 AM, after which we were too tired to talk or laugh and so finally hit the bed.
Sunday morning, I prepared lunch for 6 people. I think that's the largest for which I've cooked. Since we stay right next my mom's place, I have almost stopped cooking(!), so it was quite a deal for me ;-) Father-in-law joined us for lunch and I was beaming when the vendaikkai vathak-kozhumbu, onion-brinjal fry and rasam vanished in 15 minutes flat! It was very well liked and I felt sooo proud :-) I don't cook quite often, but when I do, I'd like to think I do it well. (Even if I say so myself ;-))
At 2.30 we four(C, A, F-I-L and I) left to visit C's cousin at the OTA (Officer's Training Academy). She did her Engineering in Mumbai and was selected for the Army (electronics and technical division). But they have a mandatory 1 year training at the OTA. She has already lost 3 kgs! Their routine starts at 4.30 in the morning and they hit the sack by 1 or so! Hardly 4 hrs of sleep a day!! But she seems to be enjoying the whole thing. It is such an inspiration to see her and the other cadets at the academy. Every time we visit her, the next day we religiously get on the exercise bike to get ride off a few calories. The motivation last a day or two before we are back to our routine. I guess seeing her twice a week will be a good idea. (Selfish reason)
Reached home by 5.30. I prepared some pani-puri and again we quickly gobbled up every bit of it. And then came the highlight of the day. We are suckers for S.Ve Sekar and Crazy Mohans' plays and went to Vani Mahal to see 'Chocolate Krishna Crazy's latest drama, it was uproarious! You can read the story gist from the link. It very much appealed to people of all ages. At one point the entire Sabha was laughing so hard that people started coughing! There is a bit where Maadhu's boss does a interview (the boss takes credit for Maadhu's work) and so Lord Krishna decides to help Maadhu. He casts his spell on the boss and so whenever the boss opens his mouth to answer the questions, he says whatever Maadhu speaks! (A bit like Bruce Almighty sequence) When the interviewer asks the boss his name, he says, my name is 'Bathroom-poren' (His name actually is Mathruboodham!!) Try as much as he can, he is unable to control his mouth and for the next 5 minutes the boss is done to bits with some whacky and embarrassing answers.
Some other jokes that had the audience in splits:
Naan British airways-la poren, nee?
Amma, naan alphonso-la poren.
Appa! adhu alphonso illa pa, Lufthansa!
Krishna faints after eating butter and says later: Naan evalavo butter saptirukken, but indha madhiri kandravi butter saptadhe illai!!
Maadhu: Krishna, ippo neeyum adult, butter is also adulterated!
Lord Krishna converts a dog into a man and when Maadhu introduces him and his uncle
Madhu says: Sir, ivaru parkathuku-dhan Man, actually, ivar oru Doberman!
I can't do justice to the jokes by typing them out. The speed with which Crazy and Madahu speak, it is best to see it live. Crazy has very diligently learnt some tricks and performs 'magic' like changing a simple black cloth into a nice screen with god print, retrieving a bouquet from a stick and some simple things like that but it sure captures the children's attention. It is definitely the best of Crazy's plays. Do watch it if you haven't already. Met Crazy after the show to praise the entire team's effort. He was as usual very humble.
So, after almost 2 hours of non-stop laughter, we headed home with a smile on our face and our hearts as light as feather. Of course it is true that, Laughter is the best medicine.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
