Sense and Sensibility

Developing State (s)

2011-11-09T18:27:00.000+05:30

Koodankulam- This has been a topic , I have been trying hard to understand. It is on news every day and each channel, magazine, newspaper, individual, have their own stand. My general inference is that , not everyone who express their opinion use their head. It pains that in our our country investment , science, knowledge, disaster management , natural calamity are all seen as synonyms of dirty politics. People are happy just by comparing India with America and China,and get excited when someone promises to lead the country and make it happen. Leave alone becoming a Super Power in 2020, would we even be in the roads of a "Developed Country" or continue being THE Largest Developing Democracy?? Like Mr.Kalam says, history was not made by cowards. One cannot wait till all the investment is over and protest a when it is almost time to get it functional. This is absolute cowardice. I remember when I was a part of a signature campaign to bring a construction of a petrol bunk near a residential area to a halt. Later we moved from that place, and I have no clue if the judgement was in favor of the petrol bunk owner or the residents. But I have realized in recent times petrol bunks are landmarks for a few . Now with expanding cities, petrol bunks are around each and every corner.

People who protest are like, no one from our clan should join the army , but the country should be safe. No one should be associated with agriculture, but India must remain the largest producer and inflation should be 'zero' for food products. Indian rupee should be strong , but we will depend on other countries for everything. My husband used to remark , when I complain about his long working hours, "We have to work not only for our bread and butter, today we want cheese and peanut butter also. We can get it only when we sweat it out. It never happens when you depend on a third party.". It holds good for most of our requirements.

If we have to be compared with other developed nations we need to be producers and not consumers all the while. Accidents happen everyday.We don't refrain from venturing out for the fear of it. Natural calamities are also inevitable. No effort is made to control the use of plastics, to stop polluting rivers, to maintain a renewed place - like the Koyambedu market. I remember it to be a place of class a decade ago, and today it is like the banks of Koovam river. Vendetta and politics go hand in hand in Tamil Nadu. It is pathetic that the common man is the victim of all the vindictiveness. History never comes to rescue at all these points. By the end of it , if development has to take place a bold step has to be taken and it is for the scientists to take a call weighing all pros and cons and not any spiritual person or politician. I hope there is a fair call taken by the end of all this drama which will actually help the state .

What would put Tamil Nadu on the road to be called a Developed state - Stop election freebies. Provide uninterrupted power . Encourage solar power. Bring civic regulations with an iron fist. Ensure by law that street lights are turned off by 6AM. Welcome industries for job opportunities and state income. Encourage small time employers . Promote health schemes, make it a safe place . Let industrialists maintain roads and plant trees instead of greasing palms . If Shankar's Mudhalvan was not fictional and Sujatha's dialogues were not filmy, then what an ideal state it would be.!!

GOD PLEASE BLESS MY COUNTRY AND IT'S PEOPLE.

Life in Chennai.

2011-10-15T15:20:00.000+05:30

It had been one awesome "Musical week", but the days that followed kept me so busy that it took some time for me to post an update on my blog. On Thursday it was M.J .Sriram, On Firday it was Airtel Super Singer , Saturday was the best of it all- Aruna Sairam , Sunday an interview with Vani Jayaram on TV and it was like having boarded a space ship and travelling in bliss. M.J.Sriram at Residency Towers , was what you may call an "honest rendition" of mostly SPB songs trying to remain as close as possible to the original. What was commendable was his energy and composure. A few songs left me nostalgic. Could not help going back on time to the "Philips- Radio- gram" that we had and how to my fathers admonishment we would stealthily play Radio Ceylon, Trichy , Madras A and wait for Listeners Choice. Krithi chivalrously accompanied me, though , I am not sure how much he actually enjoyed. He was not comfortable that I had to stand throughout the evening - and that was - love and concern together. A couple of good 'ol friends and a few celebrities added to the nostalgia and grandeur of the evening.

Aruna Sairam on the other hand, has such a natural and persuasive voice. A copious supply of harmony and divinity. It was like a roller coaster ride. When her voice touches the high notes, you feel at the pinnacle, and then , there is a- 'Pause' for a fleeting second. 'Silence' - in between has never been more beautiful. Before you realize your journey starts and it is an experience again , the movement , the harmonious cascade . She served a full platter and 'Ka-a-paali" of Papanasam Sivan in Mohanam and her signature of "maadu meikum kanne" were aplenty for her ardent fans. It was a true experience and a thoroughly enjoyable evening, that it felt like a blessing moving into Chennai. It would be unfair not to dedicate the evening to Viji and Murali who benevolently accommodated me.

Vani Jayaram's interview again moved me deeply as I was already so filled with music and was in a very supple mode. What a resonant voice at this age. Again the songs that she pulled out from memory , the anecdotes that followed , were all of time that I could easily relate to. These people are all blessed by God abundantly , what I can pray is for a healthy happy long life for them, who touch so many lives.

Charulatha Mani, a contemporary singer , abundant talent. As the program was organised by ICICI it would have probably been expected to be more youthful. But as the venue was Music academy, the presence of puritans was predominant. She attempted something like the TV program "Isai Payanam". By singing a Carnatic song in a particular raaga and drawing a few parallels from film songs. She catered more to the youth and had the audience spell bound . She had such a mellifluous voice with a perfect blend of sweetness and diction. Her interaction with the crowd was also significant. Holding the breathe for "Vittala ", she almost performed like an exercise as a suffix to most songs.Had the privilege of listening to both Arunaji and Charulatha sing Bhagyada Lakshmi , each in their own style and truly blissful. It was interesting to hear mami's discuss the artist after the program. "Do you know she is only 30?" "Yes and a mechanical engineer?" "Oh she has got twins who are six years old!!!!"
Every minute at the auditorium was enjoyable . 'Sevikku unavu illatha pothu siridhu vayitrukkum iyapadum"Translation:We need to fill up our stomach with food if and only if we don't get good food for our ears.

(Prospective) Customer is King

2011-01-18T22:25:00.007+05:30

I have realised this many times in the recent past. When you go into a showroom for the first time to study a product, you are received with warmth. When you pull out your wallet and take a visiting card , then you allow them to feel that you are ready to fall a prey . Then depending upon the price of the product , the follow on will start. Everyone concerned will talk to us on why we should chose theirs over their competitors. Phone calls start pouring in. They will ensure that you are back into the showroom . Now you are a prospective customer. You can ask for anything and you will be answered or you call will be returned. Now this is the trap and many a times we don't realize it. We fall into it associating people, service, rapport, brand everything with the product and we make the payment feeling a little special.
Now my experience with products belonging to three different categories. Something as big as a home- with as big a name as Hiranandani. A car- Volkswagen and a service provider - Vodafone.
Even before the thought of re-investment entered our heads, there were people who came home with CDs, diagrams, quotes and were ready to come in any number of times. We were 'helped' to chose our house and we paid an advance from home. Till you get entangled in their trap , they are very 'helpful and obliging'. Then when it is time for you to register, the cat is let out of the bag. The people who communicated with us have left their system and we are told that the mails that were sent from their office id were not valid enough because the person did not have the power to do so !!! One is under the impression that when we write and get a confirmation that your payment can be delayed by a fortnight , then it is with a nod of the concerned head of the department. Unfortunately, we came to understand that it was not so, only when we had to pay a huge interest for the delayed payment. When it was declared recession, and the construction work was itself stopped by the builder. We were penalized for being prompt. Had we held onto the money after confirming the apartment we would have had a fleet of members luring us all over. Usually a kind of emotional blackmail , when the time and date has been finalized, then there is a bomb being dropped. What do they call systems, one fails to understand, when there is not even a statement or reminder sent over all the days that they were sleeping??? What holds good for the customer is never the same for the dealer. NEVER EVER. The possession of the house was delayed without even a communication for a longer period of time, but there is not even an apology, leave alone interest being paid for the whole sum. Doesn't anybody with a designation have an authority that the designation defines? One cannot get hold of someone who answers all these questions. Their responses are like recorded messages. "Will get back to you on this issue". What they never do is- commit a date. If at all they do, then, they never remember that date. What they fail to understand is that, for them it would be just another customer , but for many a "house " is a sense of life time achievement and by attending to a genuine problem , they can still be pioneers in their industry.
We were one of the first few customers of VW India and things were very professional till the customer relationship manager got replaced. Then your association with the company does not count anymore. But I should confess there was lot of professionalism in the system that helped us get what we want (in the process lost only our most coveted key chain) after a lot of mails and hue and cry. But, what was offered to us in a platter when we were contemplating a new car , the number of follow ups and phone calls suddenly stop and the table turns around, where you have to scream your throat soar...
Scams, 2G, 3G, number portability nothing stops the poor Vodafone sales people at the centers. Totally oblivious of the changing phase of time they have their targets to achieve and assume customers have a lot of TIME and Money to kill. One has to visit the centers seeking help on pre paid/post paid/ plan shifting and so on and see the treatment as opposed to asking for a "new sim card "
The customer may not always be right, but, has the right to certain demands , at least in proportion to the product purchased and the promises made. I am thoroughly convinced that “ a prospective customer is king” and you will remain so as long as you take a call to make a payment...

When your boy becomes a man....

2010-08-29T22:52:00.008+05:30

You never realise when your little child transforms into an adult. There were days when my son looked at me with awe and considered my knowledge prolific. There were so many instances when he asked me how I knew things before he even told me. I can vividly recall the innocence in the voice and expression , when on the first Friday of his pre-school life, on the way back home , he asked me quizzically , “ Ma, tell me if I have school tomorrow?” and I told him he had two days break- he was amazed. He kept telling anyone who came home that week end that his mom knew everything !!!! He used to ask his dad to spell out certain words for him and cross check with me. I should not fail to mention that I am pathetic at spellings and get weird doubts till date .( The irony is I go to him to spell check important letters these days).
I used to keep two chocolates on the blades of the fan and he believed that God was so impressed with his good behaviour and showered chocolates and used to close his eyes tight and pray when I switch on the fan Today he wants a scientific explanation for everything from dawn to dusk. When we search for examples or explanations he comes out with theories from Physics, Chemistry and Math. He argues that if there is a force bigger than human force then it is Nature. I fall short of narrative skills even to reproduce the conversation and authoritative parallels to my so called "superstitions". After an hour long discussion I wanted to hold on to my seat to stay rooted to my beliefs. Mulling over it I asked myself - did his agnosticism even make me sway a little from my theism?!?!

When there is an older girl in the family then there are talks about prospective grooms, education , family, salary and so on. Having already branded me as a conservative mother, he feels that it's his duty to fend the existing pedantry for his "naive and gullible" sister. Calls all my principles "claims" and practises as "myths" . Questions even my belief in equal rights for women (!!!) and education for a girl child, when I cannot trust her "choice" or "decision" ( in this case it is about the right man for her ) he wants to know how I claim that women are equal to men in decision making and are intuitive and intelligent !!! Belonging to the old school of thoughts it is like taking a bite of the bullet. But, snooping on a message to a friend “nip it in the Bud” , when there is concern about family budget, when is ready to pool his share also to get his sister a Bose head phones, then we see that it is not always that children need to be led holding hands..

All conversations cannot be branded as arguments. If there is someone who is so liberal in complimenting then it will be him. A good suggestion whenever solicited regarding purchases, interpreting ' Inception', a little hint when stuck with Sudoku, helping my scores in video games, a shoulder to lean on whenever in pain [ sometimes a reason for the pain also ].It gets proved that there is a head , Strong- on the shoulders , thinks, need not be taught to phrase thoughts always, can be correct -many a times. The same ego that stops us from accepting truth is the one that prevents them from accepting whenever wrong. I think we have to learn to listen to the 'contemporary thoughts' as well. I am still learning.

AMC

2010-07-23T18:46:00.008+05:30

Enough has been written and said about how unhappy I was with Windows Vista .Till date I consider the worst call taken by me was to give away a fully functional XP service pack 3 and get a Vista instead. Right from day one I have had problems with the operating system. After the warranty period I was chased by the local franchisee to get into an annual maintenance contract with them which I duly did.Few days back, I turned blue, when the blue screen -EC2 page did not appear and I got a repeated error message instead. Tried all my skills with rebooting, reloading the Vista service pack in vain. So finally called up my contact. I was instructed "to follow the steps as per the procedure and call up the call centre and register a complaint". After a series of phone calls , recorded messages and playing with keys I got to talk to a human being. Very politely I was made to understand that their system was down , so I Will have to "just take a few minutes off!!!!" and make a call once again in the morning...Since I feel challenged without my monitor on all the while, I promptly called again. This time I was lucky. Was told that my problem Will be attended to within 24 to 48 hours. I wanted to get it clear so, I asked would that mean " in a day or two" and she said " no. Within 3 to 5 days and went to elaborate, 24 to 48 working hours and they work 8 hours a day... I LIKED THIS...
Incidentally it was not a software related problem at all. the hard disc had conked which meant another week long wait. But I have to mention the service engineer was kind enough to understand my position and got it replaced faster than it would normally take that is within five days. Now keeping my fingers crossed with the operating systems upgraded to Windows 7. Looking forward to write regularly again..

Logo

2010-01-23T10:42:00.007+05:30

Few months back , I noticed at a signal there were three cars to my left and in two of them the logo was missing. Ironically both were Skoda. Then I started this exercise of observing and to my surprise found that at least four out of every ten cars I saw did not have the logo and a majority of them were Skoda. I used to jokingly remark that Skoda has to use a better glue or drill their logo onto the body of the car. When we were pursuing a Skoda Laura I even wrote to the customer relations on this.

On the same day we also went to a Volks Wagon showroom and test drove a Jetta. When my husband had to wait for the sales personnel he was flipping through the magazines there was this article which said that the Logo's where the most coveted commodities by small time thieves . It costs around Rs. 4000 to Rs,8000 to replace the logos. Merc and BMW are obviously the most expensive .Ranging between 16 K to 18K!!! But it seldom gets flicked at that level because it is usually chauffeur driven. Eventually there was another article on Mumbai mirror which elaborated on this issue and shockingly exposed school children also being involved in flicking of these logos from parking lots and getting football or shoes in exchange for them.The very next day when I was crossing the road I saw an auto pause in near a Volks Wagon which was parked just before mine, and just plucked out the logo on the rear and fled. All this was over before I could even realise what was happening or react to the situation.
Interestingly there is someone who is cashing on this as well. Now Mumbai has many Skoda cars which have stickers in the place of metallic logo's. You can't name them apart unless you are very close to the car.
Will car manufactures really look into the matter and see that it is not so vulnerably placed, at least after it is quite evident that there are people who are increasingly being interested in this !!!

Good Samaritan

2009-11-05T11:05:00.005+05:30

There is a balance in this world after all. When one experiences an overdose of selfishness, then there appears a good Samaritan to re build the faith in HIS creation and hope in humanity. My husband had been to Singapore and had purchased an Arsenal poster our son. He off loaded all his luggage from the call taxi and paid the driver and sent him off. After about an hour he realised that the poster was left behind in the taxi. As luck be it, he remembered it was a Tata Indica car and its number was 6281. So we wanted to take a chance by visiting the airport taxi stand.A group of twenty drivers surrounded us and took unsolicited stands. Many of them thought that we were there to complain against "taxi drivers". There was one person ( I curse myself for not asking for his name) who volunteered and drove us to the arrival stand. He spoke impeccable English and seemed to be very fluent in Hindi as well. He asked us if we were from South India and told us that he was from Mangalore. He took us to the security of the taxi stand and explained the situation and made sure we were understood. He had registered with the taxi stand and his trip was due soon, so he excused himself and refused to accept money even for the drive to the other end of the airport. I hated the thing in me which lead me to suspect him at the start. He took leave on wishing us 'good luck' and assuring the security will do whatever possible for us to get it back.

The security was also very kind, he asked me to sit on his chair in the shade and took my husband to look for the taxi. Soon they spotted the taxi and one taxi driver came running to me to say that the poster is safe at the back of head rest of the rear seat. He seemed to reflect the joy my son would have on seeing it. Finally we managed to trace the driver and get the poster back. I wonder if this would have been possible in any other place in India!!! If people would have been so co-operative and taxi drivers so courteous at 3 PM when the sun was burning above ones head. I think when it come to things like this Mumbai IS the Heart of India...

Crows in Kalyug....

2009-10-08T08:03:00.003+05:30

Crows are generally believed to be synonymous with sharing and team work. As the world evolves and humans are getting less humane, so are crows. This is a conclusion I have come to after a lot of observation . Hindus believe that the dead visit their loved ones in the form of a crow. Lord Saturn sees his vehicle in a crow. Whatever said they are an absolute necessity to the world, more so India where dirt filth and dead rodents are not rare.

It is really amazing the kind of rapport I always shared with these creatures. I have been awe struck by their intelligence many times. Have even wondered if they are recognised for it ever and what an amazing detailed study material they are! Wherever I have been living I always had them as regular visitors early in the morning. In the past I used to have a bath and cook rice and give them a ladle full. Eventually I started keeping aside a little every evening, so that they don't have to wait in the mornings. There has been instances when they even don't wait for me to leave it down. In case there is someone else from the family then , they wait for them to move away .But with me, it is never like that. They sit on the balcony railings and keep calling out for me. One day it so happened that I had the yolk of a boiled egg and did not know what to do with it. So I kept it along with the rice for the crows. There was one waiting. It never made any noise. Crept in stealthily and started eating. After that many a times I have observed and this crow never caws, and I even wonder if there are 'dumb crows"!!!More often I see crows fighting for their share with other crows . I also see big ones sitting with its mouth wide open and letting a little one peck from there and eat. There is this old Tamil song which says" Kakkai koottamai irunthirundhaal ottrumaiyaavadhu irundhirukkum", which means "If men were a group of crows at least unity would be a habit" ..but I really wonder if crows are also getting selfish and believe in survival of the fittest !!!

How meanings and perspectives change.

2009-07-03T07:53:00.008+05:30

Monday's child is fair at face,
Tuesday's child is full of grace........
And the child that is born on the Sabbath day
Is bonny blithe and gay.

If someone were to ask me the opposite of 'Gay' I would instantly say unhappy or sad, may be todays child would say, 'straight'!! The TOI headlines flashes -"India's Gay Day" where Homosexuality is no more a crime.
I remember vividly when my grand father asked to get an Oxford Dictionary and check the meaning of the word 'Guy'. There was a big argument between the two of us, when he told me that 'Guy' was an abbreviation of Guy Fawkes and a colloquial reference is nothing complimentary. But before his death I think he accepted that it meant a lot more than what he thought it did , in contemporary coloquial language. But he convinced me that a guy, can never be synonymous with a gentleman.But a guy was always a man. Now a days, when a group of people, both men and women are standing, then they are referred to as the "Guys who are standing out there"!!!

The change in the meaning of the word is less confusing as when compared to the wholistic change in the attitude, be it with 'Respect' or 'Homosexuality'. We have to accept that Change is the only constant..

Agnihothram

2009-04-14T11:02:00.010+05:30

On Wednesday the 8th of April, I went to Bandra to collect some thing my friend wanted. I called up his contact, Mr.Dilip, and went over to collect it. As courtsey has it, I had to sit down for a couple of minutes and there was mutual introduction. I felt that the conversation that followed was the most enlightening one. There was this authentic fragrance of a 'Havan' and some positive vibes about that place. When I remarked about it, he told me about the 'Agnihothram ' that he has been propagating and performing and gladly gifted me a book titled 'Agnihothram for Health Wealth and Happiness'. He gave me an enriching synopsis of it and I sincerely got back and completed reading it. It describes Agni worship as a science and beyond caste/creed/religion/nation or sex. It is a simple offering of few grains of rice smeared with cow's ghee, to Agni, lit in a small pyramid shaped copper pot, twice a day -at sunrise and sunset. The main thing to be followed is, that it should be done regularly without a break. If due to unavoidable circumstances one has to be away from home than he may depute somebody to do it. It sounded so convincing, that it can avert any catostrophe and releives stress, ailment and pollution. It is beleived to play a vital role in maintaining an equilibirium in the hormone secretion in women. It is beleived to heal the atmosphere , calm the mind, to help give up adverse habits like drugs , helps alcholics to rehabilitate, repair the damage done to nature by mankind. If one small practice can benifit not only the person who does it , but also the environment then why not do it as a contribution to the world? It is something like a human chain that more and more people should practice as an antidote to the intense hazards to the environment.Agnihothram for World Peace , to prevent Global warming to help lead a stress free life. What more can we ask for when it takes less than five minutes ?If any of you want to get more details, I will be more than happy to give extracts from the book .You may also check online here and for the sunrise and sunset timings in your place here

The 3 + 2 R's

2009-03-28T12:26:00.001+05:30

I vividly remember how in school we were taught about the importance of the “ 3 R's” - Reading, (w)Riting and (a)Rithmetic. If you pay attention to these in your formative years then you are taken care of for the rest of your life time. We tried to teach our children the same.
I know many children who work hard and secure the kind of marks that would make themselves , their parents and school happy.“The need of the hour becomes 'the extra hour'”. That's the kind of work children put in at the Higher Secondary level. Parents and school can encourage the child to do well, teach them to deal with stress , success and failure. After all the effort, if he and is deprived of something he deserves, and loses to a person who has scored lesser marks , due to “Reservation” ,then how can we justify that? It is for the 'Communally backward' and not for the 'Financially backward'. The generation of today have many social evils to fight and this, according to me ,is one of them.
The most petrifying 'R' of the day today is 'Recession'. While discussing about the mandatory internship she has to complete with some firm, my daughter was mentioning, that many organisations write back saying, ' due to the existing 'situation' they are sorry to inform that they cannot even offer a temprory placement to many of the applicants. There were days when firms looked at students as fresh talent and were happy to pay a stipend and hire them. Now many claim there isn't enough work for the existing staff !!!

My son told me that the 3 'R's taught to then in school are different. They are not phonic. They were told to Reduce – the consumption of electricity and fuel, Reuse plastic and Recycle paper. That way the world can be a better place for them to live in. Energy saved is energy produced. Money saved is money earned. We should put this into rigid practice and encourage the youth to be producers, and entrepreneurs . That way may be we can fight 'Reservation' and 'Recession'. Dunno, how many of you will agree with me !? !?

Catch 'em young..

2009-03-21T22:20:00.003+05:30

Two things that have affected me in the recent past, involve young children.

The first one having happened in our neighbourhood. Two boys of class twelve kidnapping and murdering their classmate for ransom. The boys have hammered their class mate to death and the cause for this gruesome crime is money. We have read and heard of friends who protect life and now we are hearing of friends who kill for want of money.

The second one is a thirteen year old feeling proud of being a father. Added to the dismay is that few more boys and all in thier teens have claimed to have had a relationship with the same girl who is fifteen.!!! The parents of the boy have spoken with awe about their son behaving like a responsible father unlike other children of his age !! People want to ' Get Noticed' . Whether it is for wrong reasons or right does not matter.

Children don't choose to play outdoors .They choose to watch the Television or play on the Play Station instead. Most of the games are full of violence and abusive language. On a recent visit to a near by toy shop to get a game for my nephew , I was surprised to know that many of the cd's available there were meant only for adults. Where are we leading the younger generation? Where are the values?

We had our grandparents to tell us stories and talk to us about culture. They were also living examples of culturally bred civilized humans. Today nobody has the time to discuss 'mundane' matters like this. At least we can gift an Amar Chitra Katha book instead of chocolates and pastries. Even if the title is a repeat , the child can still flip through the pages once again and will stand to benifit. The stories about perseverance, patience, obidience, chastity are terms which the youngsters of today fail to relate to. I remember how the epics were narrated to us, like a serial with an intersting break by my father. We used to wait for those post-dinner sessions. We never got bored listening to the experiences of my grandfather in court and enjoyed the tests he gave us to check our attentiveness. Today, children don't have the patience for any of these things. They want everything abridged and on visual media. I think it is very important to inculcate the habit of reading at a very tender age and nothing like Amar Chitra Katha's for an insight into Indian History and cultural stories.

It is important that we ensure our younger generation get to enjoy the best of both the worlds . They grow and speard their branches and lead a much better life.But, it is mandatory that we teach them to keep their roots deep and firm. I completely agree with Robin Sharma who quotes a Chinese proverb which says, 'the best time to plant a tree would have been twenty years ago, the second best is today'.

JAI HO...

2009-02-23T11:15:00.004+05:30

What a moment of pride. It was a perfect start of the day. I had skipped my morning walk to stay at home and watch the Red Carpet and Academy awards. It was worth every moment of the wait. Our man ARR had bagged two Oscars and nothing gave me more happiness till date in 2009 as this. May there be only better news to follow through out the year for Indians and may there be achievements and awards all our way. Watched ARR on stage again and again swapping between all news channels. How humble he was and how proud he made us. The icing on the cake was when he said , “Ella pugazum Iraivanukke” [ All the credit goes to HIM. ]
On NDTV there was an announcement made that Chinmayi was going to perform for Rehman from Chennai and waited in vain. An interview with AnilKapoor with a mention about his Armani suit!! The children who had such a journey to Los Angeles.Slumdog winning eight out of ten nominations and nine possibilities.Equally proud of Resul Pookutty Great..

D- DAY.

2009-02-16T19:53:00.001+05:30

The whole concept of Valentine’s Day, Mother’s day, Father’s day, Grand parents day have all propped up throughout India only in the recent past. The market is flooded with appropriate greeting cards and gifts. Last week was full of ‘Hearts’ and “Roses’. Now that includes heart shaped diamond rings, pendants and golden roses as well. The newspapers are full of ideas for gifting your valentine. I seriously don’t understand the whole idea of the weight of wallet declaring the strength of love. There has to be an ‘expression’ surely. With the recession impacting romance as well, the celebration was a little subdued as when compared to the last year. The ‘sena’ also probably had a role to play. In my observation most of the ‘youth’ who are ‘in love’ flocked to cinema halls this year.
Asking myself, I feel I would be overjoyed, if my cup of morning tea was made. That would personally be asking for too much because no one gets up before I do at home. May be a ‘Thank you’ note, for the coffee and break fast I make, or liberal compliments and some quality time.
I still keep the hand made card my son gave me eight years back for Mother’s day, and the hand made candle my daughter gave me for my anniversary. Such small things are equally tangible to be preserved as is an expensive gift. People giving an expensive gift might be a matter of personal choice, but that should never be the deciding factor. Though you always know you love your spouse, your child, your parent, Never fail to tell then ‘How much you love them’ on that day of the year which is meant for them.
It will also be very good, if people can adhere to ‘no smoking day’, ‘dry day’, ‘no honking day’, ‘brisk walking day’, green day and so on with the same sincerity.

Barack Obama's first Press Conference.

2009-02-10T09:54:00.003+05:30

Happened to watch Obama’s first press conference live on NDTV few minutes ago. There were times when I never went beyond the language used and the crowd and costume. But now I try to understand ‘economics’ too.

He was absolutely ‘articulate’ and ‘Presidential’. Throughout he maintained an ease with his surroundings and answered keeping a lot of room for himself. The “Bottom line’ (he used often) was to create ‘economic stimulus’ and four million jobs.

Obama did not fail to acknowledge the direness of the current financial crisis, he was very clear that he did not have a ‘Crystal ball’ and did not commit on specific measures to mend it. He said “Given to understand the seriousness of the situation any one step to rectify it will not be the whole solution. It can only be a part of the solution”

When asked if consumer spending got people into the current mess he said, “What got us into this mess initially were banks taking exorbitant, wild risks with other people's money based on shaky assets and because of the enormous leverage, where they had one dollar's worth of assets and they were betting thirty dollars on that one dollar, what we had was a crisis in the financial system”.

One thing that was evident is the current situation is very real and is here to stay for some more time. What I understood is that, there is a four tier program with ‘a bottom line’ :) of creating jobs with the help of private sectors. Build trust on banks. Refuel the share market and re look into the housing policy.

There used to be this quote on one of the many chit funds that functioned in Tamil Nadu before they all got into a scam which said, “Let your first expense be your saving”. Now this lets me believe in all the saying of yesteryears when it was believed that like ants we have to live from our resources and live in a house that is good and comfortable enough for us and our pockets. Everybody is talking about keeping a check on expenses and like Obama mentioned “the bad habit’ of spending too much is something that even I have to work on. There was this mail which said, a woman gets irritated when a man pays 2 Re instead of 1Re for something he desperately wants and a woman pays Re1 for a product worth Re2 for something she does not really want. Truth is not always pleasant. :)

Beating exam blues.

2009-02-05T10:04:00.000+05:30

Last week my son’s school had organized a meeting for the parents of class ten students. I went with a lot of apprehension. I was quite surprised to see the number of men there. The dad’s usually don’t turn up in large numbers for any parent –teacher association meeting. I guess with the exams approaching they had a reason to take off and be present. I should say, I was relatively at ease as I have no clue about the syllabi or the schedule at school. I was there because I got a sms which asked us –parents to be present there to ‘Beat the exam blues’.
The entire session was to teach parents to handle the situation!!! We were given a session of Tibetan Yoga and were taught some breathing exercises. It was indeed very thoughtful of the school to organize one such meet and very pathetic that we need to be told ‘the dos and don’ts in handling children and their exams. I realized how unaware I was with the rapidness of my emotional out pour and what I probably thought was the right thing to say or the ‘motivating factor’ could actually have an adverse effect on my son. The teachers gave us a synopsis of the paper and the instruction given to their wards. I was amused when many parents actually asked questions pertaining to the previous test paper and about its format. I was oblivious to all these things. I was observing the anxious faces around.
Must applaud the effort of the staff and management of Podar School to counsel the parents and I should say it helped me in a way that I have stopped all negative statements which I start my day with. By the end of it we were given a subject- wise check list which was about the requirements on the day of each exam.
The interesting and commendable part from the school was when they gave a note to the parents with points asking us to respect the traits of the children, their working hours, giving then space to listen to music or to take a break. Finally it said, “Parents should mention, ‘EXAM RESULTS ARE IMPORTANT BUT NOT MORE IMPRTANT THAN YOU’ and parents must not forget ‘EVERY CHILD HAS A NICHE IN THIS WORLD’.
I was quite convinced when it comes to education the school cares as much for the child and more for the sentiments. It is indeed true that we see our child as a competitor in the rat race and not as an individual who can win in life.

God are you listening?

2009-02-03T11:12:00.000+05:30

A visit to any hospital can leave the rest of your day very heavy. One such visit to the TATA Memorial Cancer Institute, children’s ward, depressed me so much, that I had to collect myself to write about it. This incident personally affected me so much. All with innocent faces cycling, crawling, playing with toys/dolls. There was this lady who was standing near the lift and sobbing heavily. When I asked her what the matter was she told me that her five year old son had an acute infection and had been amputated of his right leg few days back. He was not quite aware of the seriousness of the situation and she did not want to break down in his presence. I asked her if I could see him and the little boy was in a reclined position holding some toy in his hand. When I went to his bed side, I tripped on something and bent down and took it in my hand. It was a wooden horse. The boy saw me, pointed his hand towards me and started crying out loud trying to kick himself free. I was perplexed and decided to leave as I did not want to cause any discomfort to the family. I was contemplating if it was just while attempting to kick if he realized that he had lost his leg!! I attempted to leave and he asked his mother, “ kisne mere ghode ka pear thoda?”.( who broke the leg of my toy ?) I said to myself’ “God are you listening?”
.

Life is as beautiful as you want it to be….

2009-01-30T21:50:00.000+05:30

Most of us believe that God brings a man and wife together and man should not break them apart. Today’s world demands a lot from both the husband and wife.
There was a joke which said, people who forget women, family, food fun where called “Saints’ before and now they are called ‘Professionals’ 

I read somewhere recently, a man went to a Saint and told him, “I am trying very hard to maintain harmony and peace at home, but my wife does not have either the education or exposure to understand me, She is always nagging” The saint asked him to sit down and wait till noon. He came out and called out to his wife to get him a lighted lamp. She never questioned the necessity of a lamp in daylight and got him one. Later she got him and the guest a cup of coffee. The coffee tasted salty and the man found it difficult to gulp it down, whereas the saint drank it happily and thanked her. The man was surprised!!! The saint looked at him and said, “The secret of marriage lies in ‘Not Complaining’. She has made coffee always and I know somewhere a mistake has happened. Likewise she never questioned my prudence.”

But, in today’s world nobody has time to understand one another. No time to spend with one another. But we have all the time to complain. Whatever profession you are in, it is never going to be difficult to call your spouse up and say “Hi!” or to ask mutually how the day was. One is expected to be busy, but we don’t forget to breathe. Happiness and harmony is like fresh breath. Even if you are slightly upset for the day, it does not matter. We try to please so many people who are associated with ‘work’. We don’t want to offend them, why don’t we hesitate to do it to the ones we live our lives with? We always find time to call up a business associate or we never neglect an appointment with him, but we never find the time to call someone we love? We fail to express how much we miss being together, appreciate small courtesies, and steal a look, a small peck on the cheek, a hug near the oven, small compliments and NO complaints. Whatever is your age, how many years you have been married for; never let the romance in life fade away.
Never ever take a third person as a confidant in matters relating matrimony.
I am not able to help comparing the love that existed between our grandparents to what it is today. Today an extra marital affair is almost a fashion. It can even be to an extent of ‘flirting’. We have the responsibility of rearing the next generation with values; inter dependence, integrity and dignity.
Happened to hear a small bit of an interview with Javed Akhtar on Radio City. He was describing how the relationship bloomed between him and Shabana. I am not here to discuss the legitimacy of that or the soul searching in Sindhu Bairavi or any Hindi/Tamil movie. There was a dialogue in a movie, ‘Why has God given man only one heart?’ “He wants man to find the other one which is out there in the world for him”. When we still believe there is somebody created to match oneself, why is there so much of frustration and unhappiness in today’s world? Why is there a thought that the “understanding’ cannot happen between spouses? I am seeing around me that people like the admiration outside home. The search for chemistry, compatibility and Emotional quotient with everybody else except the spouse is getting common day after day in metros. God Only Knows how long your life is going to be, if there is life after death, if you will get another chance to live together, so please understand that it is HIS design that you are man and wife in this life and you have to LIVE it to it’s fullest happily and together. Rab Ne Banaadi Jodi….

Farewell @ Abhi's school

2009-01-28T11:47:00.000+05:30

It was farewell at Abinandh's school on Saturday. The colour code was Red and black. Got Abi only a shirt. He did not want a suit made or to wear a jacket !! I was told that all the girls had bought a full wardrobe and chose a dress for the evening. Lovely dresses. He was surprised that he won an award that evening. I wasn't.

Law of Attraction..

2009-01-23T20:01:00.000+05:30

The ‘Law of Attraction” and “The Theory of Randomness” are quite contradictory. Yet I believe that both exist. Reading many books, discussing with friends and many mails have let me think on this subject.

Coming to “The Law of Attraction”, the happiness/bliss/secret/success cannot elude you forever if you have a goal, stay focused and believe in yourself. I think one is designed to play different roles, as a father/mother/son/daughter/husband/ wife/ employee/social being and so on; it is just like donning a cap. But many successful people have not had happy personal lives. Does that mean they have not attracted that? Does it mean that they haven’t prioritized that? When aiming at success we get so obsessed with it, that we fail to look beyond the happiness that ‘One’ achievement brings. Just saw a program on TV as to how Illaya raja came to Chennai with just dreams and ten rupees in his pocket. Bharathiraja was speaking about the ‘Law of attraction’ and how they always believed that they could make it big if they came to Chennai.

If the Theory of Randomness does not exist how else would we describe - the Global melt down? Tsunami? Impairment of health condition? One man, being an ‘all powerful employer one day, and landing up in a prison the next day?

Riddhi’s Arangetram.

2009-01-11T22:40:00.001+05:30

It was Riddhi’s Arangetram on Friday the 9th of Jan. Riddhi is the darling daughter of our good friend, T.J . We received a sms almost a month ahead of the date to block our calendar! We could not have anyway messed with the date. I was surprised that Krithi got back from work before time and made it for the concert! It was worth it for every minute. We have always known her as a very confident girl, but she was superlative. She danced with so much of energy throughout with a lovely smile. Her expressions were excellent. She danced on the elements of nature and the dance on Fire element was my favourite. I could see, looking around that the audience were thoroughly enjoying. It was not like a debutant performing. She took an ‘Arangetram’ to a different level. It was a nice idea to get little Anshu welcome the guests and Riddhi’s class mates to do the narration and Farida had meticulously planned everything, from the decoration to the food. I am sure I will nourish the memories of the evening for a long time to come

Ba bye…2008.

2008-12-31T17:32:00.000+05:30

Personally the year has not been a real good one. But cannot say it was totally bad either. It began with a lot of apprehension and Hope!!! We had the most ‘Holy’ start. February called for some major decisions and for Good. Krithi switched jobs and we Thanked God for it. Share market was roaring and all looked prospective and prosperous. Aaju won a trip to the US. Got her a laptop and camera and she was feeling like a princess!!! Met up with old friends from Madurai felt, reunited and belonged!! Vinod got married, Caught up with Kalpana, Anjali and Subha. Met Bharathi at her home
All was fine till we had problem with our home lease. Had to make arrangements to shift. Lost and broke a lot of valuable and sentimental things. Saw the ‘Bull’ transform into an ugly ‘bear’. Aunty fell down and was bed ridden. The terror attack and the fear that followed.
Had two trips to Shridi. Shekar and Kamakshi visited us. Many cousins and friends visited us during the year. Parents were here for a couple of months. Krithi caught up with friends, attended Murali’s daughter’s wedding. Ravi got transferred. Had many busy days and few depressing ones. On the whole it has been a year of learning in all facets of life.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T09:15:00.000+05:30

Merry Christmas to all the excellent people I know. This season has been so dear ever since school days. Cannot forget the carols , the plays, the white gifts( all wrapped in white paper) , the Christmas tree, cakes and rose cookies!!! After St.Josephs and Women's Christian College it is bound to play an integral part. What else can one say " Thank You God" for keeping me where I am , for giving me all the wonderful people around me, for the earth, water and wind.. PLEASE BLESS THE WORLD...

Battle between Beverages

2008-12-17T07:55:00.000+05:30

Battle between Beverages.
The recent “Horlicks” and “Complan” advertisements have left me thinking, ‘are we really practising what we preach? If you pay 150 Rupees you don’t expect to buy gold. It is good enough if you get your money’s worth. The basic requirement should be to check if you, are providing for the money you charge. You get what you want, what you ask for and what you pay for. A child should be made to understand that. You cannot compare what he wants, or what he aspires for or what he pays for, or what he works for. Why should there be a clash of ‘egos’ at a developing stage? In my experience I have found that, a beverage is decided by the child’s palette. For both my children I started a chocolate based drink as an infant. One stuck to it, the other seemed to like malt better. Advertisement does play an important role in today’s world, but I think it is a very sensitive area and the children should be ‘caught young’ not ‘corrupted young’.
When asked about our child, do we ever tell, “he is good, intelligent, understanding and better than your child”? Even children don’t like comparing. Teach them to bank on their strengths and never on others weaknesses.

India after 26/11/08 Vs 26/07/06

2008-12-03T19:23:00.000+05:30

There are all these mails being circulated, asking Indians to prove their unity and their solidarity. All of them condemn the politicians. There was this really interesting mail which said

“Do not worry about those who have come thru boats...
Our forces can easily defeat them. WORRY about those who have come thru votes.... they are our REAL ENEMIES....”
“What a shame and disgrace to every citizen of India that the elite NSG Force were
transported in ordinary BEST buses, whereas our cricketers are transported
by state of the art luxury buses, these Jawans lay down their lives
to protect every Indian and these cricketers get paid even if they lose a match
we worship these cricketers and forget the martyrdom of these brave Jawans”
My son's school- R.N.Podar is collecting a sum of 100 Rupees from each student and helping the families of the police men who lost their lives. I felt it was very thoughtful and they did not stop with just mentioning about "getting together and doing something”
Every time there is mentions that, unlike previous disasters this time Mumbaikars are serious. Radio FM says “ Mumbaikar kuch tho kar”. How far are we going to take this campaign? Will it get like stopping plastic bags after the deluge? Everybody stopped it for few months. Then it is the people who go shopping, who tempt the shopkeepers to break the law. Seldom do people carry there own cloth bags. My cousin was mentioning that when the plane lands in Mumbai you see blue plastic sheets fluttering over most roof tops!! It is only after that I noticed it myself. With all this plastic and more how do we say “enough is enough”? Unless WE change our attitude and abide by the law and set high standards for ourselves we are not going to go anywhere by just standing in silence for two minutes in honour of the martyrs.

Disaster - Human & Nature

2008-11-28T17:33:00.000+05:30

It is more than 36 hours now and the terror attack hasn’t come to an end yet. The suburbs are relatively unaffected, though the people looked worried about their city and their “brothers and sisters”. Business was like usual and I even saw a couple of foreigners shopping at Magnet. I got back a short while ago and as I am typing this there are a series of shots- another round of firing taking place at the Taj. The radio FM is going on non-stop about the ‘Resilience of a Mumbaikar’. Is that expected from us now? Do we have to put up with this kind of terror and spring back to action every time? Will the peace and prosperity of our nation repeatedly be put into test?
Got many friends in South Bombay who are too scared even to talk and when forced they say it feels like a war Zone. How unlike Bombay!
I have been calling all my friends to check if they were all back home. Many people had beautiful memories connected with the Taj and the coffee shop overlooking the sea. Many are very sentimental and possessive about this heritage hotel. I am sure all are possessive of the spirit which is exclusive of Mumbai. With this attack we have lost all that we have built over the centuries.
The work of the media is to be appreciated. But, why do they have to crowd outside in such large numbers and create confusion? So many news Channels are annoying.
What are the politicians doing? Where did the otherwise vociferous people go?
Why do people do this to the lives of innocent? What is our Intelligence Agency doing? Why aren’t we able to plan ahead of a curve? Why isn’t there a supportive infrastructure? What can we do about this?
My heart goes with the people who died, all the brave men who gave their live for India.
If I have the power of erasing one day from the calendar! If I can undo the damage!

Nature has played havoc in Tamil Nadu. Cyclone Nisha has caused a lot of damage to lives, crops and property. With my daughter in the ship from Port Blair to Chennai, I had a lot to worry about. It had taken almost fifteen hours to dock the ship after reaching Chennai!

Everything is an experience if we live to narrate!

Power Of Prayer

2008-11-23T19:10:00.001+05:30

Power of Prayer
Have been coordinating with many good people to stand up and pray for a friend and his family. It is on Sunday the 23rd of November at 8AM IST. When all get together and pray, in unison we can move even mountains. YES WE CAN. Was touched when friends called up and told they are organizing a prayer in nearby temple, church and are getting special poojas conducted. Some of them were fasting, held ‘Mannat’ and wanted to express their sincerity . They did not want to know who, why, what, - to pray for my friend. Kootu Prathanai, to restore his health and happiness. He is a jubilant optimistic person full of humor and this is to tell him we all care and love him and will appeal to God for him. I strongly believe in the people who stood by me and their support and know for certain that all is going to be fine.

Race and Racism

2008-11-09T22:38:00.000+05:30

What a Race it was? Falling short of words to describe its momentum . Speed, drama and sentiments at its peak. My throat went dry, till Glock’s car slowed down and Hamilton finished fifth. The race was true to the saying “it’s not over till it’s over”. Massa crossed the victory line and Ferari team started rejoicing, Mc Laren almost gave up when Glock slowed down and “Thank God’ Lewis completed the race 5th and took the much deserved Drivers championship title.
Obama is US prez.. Heard him over and over again in 20 hours delivering his first presidential speech. Lewis Hamilton is the youngest champion and Barrack Obama is the first African American President of the US .With these men creating history in their own way, one would like to believe that ‘Racism’ is almost done with from the face of this earth. Wish it is true.

Lewis Hamilton

2008-10-19T20:32:00.000+05:30

Was very tense though Lewis Hamilton took the pole in Shanghai. Could not help being reminded that he crashed out just outside the pit stop in the same track last season. But it was good, consistant performance by Hamilton . Hope he wins the drivers championship. It takes a lot of maturity to behave like Kimi and let Masa ahead to get two extra points , and behave like nothing ever happened. Was it an act of gratitude by Kimi for what Masa did in Brazil last year? Would have still been confused if the contest was between Kimi and Lewis. But if Lewis can maintain the same kind of lead and not repeat any of his earlier mistakes then he should be able to win the Formula One Title 2008. I went to Matunga and broke a coconut for Ganesha and fulfiled the ritual.....This year got a Renault F1 card for B'day from Smita and Kiran.

Attitude

2008-10-17T19:07:00.000+05:30

At the Santa Cruz market was this vendor who wore a T-shirt with this slogan” My ass your face ….What difference?”. The height of it is that after a heated argument he asked a customer “aap pade likke ho..khoodh padlo” and showed the slogan. I thought the customer should have told him that “I eat and speak with my mouth. What about you?”

Pondering

2008-08-29T13:55:00.000+05:30

There are always some things that either impress you or affect you when you are browsing or reading or watching television. In the recent past these things left me pondering..
On web—
India is a country where labor is cheap and plentiful, where people make a living in every kind of way. Some work behind a desk, others work behind a counter, many work their behinds off. They toil in the hot sun, earning in an entire year what the top film actor, makes just getting his nose powdered.
Read a collection of short stories by Somerset Maugham and T.Janakiraman. When they talk about the social differences, each in their own way make an impact, where you shed a tear for the meek.

On television. There was this Srilankan boy, who is now a teacher in Tamil Nadu, who spoke about ‘Rich Indian culture ‘ and his respect for it on Visu’s “Arattai Arangam” You could feel the seething anger and his attempt to suppress it. “Varudam oru ulaga azhagi yai eendredukkum indhya annaye, unnal aen innoru Mahathmavai uruvakka mudiavillai?” Translating it -
“Oh Bharath Matha, you give birth to a Miss World every year, why are you unable to bring another Mahatma into this world?” His admiration and his intelligence where evident in his speech throughout.
We always fail to appreciate what is ours.
Is’nt he a real Mahatma? A man who had a fore sight We do need many more like him…
1.Change yourself : "You must be the change you want to see in the world
2. You are in control. "Nobody can hurt me without my permission
3. Forgive and let it go. "The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong."An eye for eye only ends up making the whole world blind”
4. Without action you aren't going anywhere. "An ounce of practice is worth more than tons of preaching
5. Take care of this moment. "I do not want to foresee the future. I am concerned with taking care of the present. God has given me no control over the moment following.
6. Everyone is human. "I claim to be a simple individual liable to err like any other fellow mortal. I own, however, that I have humility enough to confess my errors and to retrace my steps." "It is unwise to be too sure of one's own wisdom. It is healthy to be reminded that the strongest might weaken and the wisest might err."
7. Persist. "First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win. "Be persistent
8. See the good in people and help them."I look only to the good qualities of men. Not being faultless myself, I won't presume to probe into the faults of others."Leadership means getting along with people
9. Be congruent, be authentic, be your true self. "Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony
10. Continue to grow and evolve. "Constant development is the law of life, and a man who always tries to maintain his dogmas in order to appear consistent drives himself into a false position."
These quotes extracted from Mahatma Gandhi’s book was forwarded to me by my friend…..

Go for Gold..

2008-08-26T14:10:00.000+05:30

Finally the 08’ Olympics is over. The closing ceremony was a feast .Watched it on TV. It left me more sceptical. Will India be able to host something of this magnitude and in such a manner!!! Will there be a day when Indians will break as many records!! At the end will it leave the country rich of its traits-Hospitality and Secularism or will it leave only a few individuals richer and the media questioning everybody else?? After the IPL , I should confide I have regained a little of my long lost hope.
I am proud of Abhinav, Vijender and Sushil like many other Indians. You may attribute Abhinav’s success to various factors, that he is the only son of industrialist’s parents, could afford all the affluence that goes with sporting, did not wait for a sponsor but how many rich Indian boys actually make use of what is being provided? We definitely need many more like him, but he who is the ‘First’ to get there is an achiever and that way Abhinav is a Leader in every sense of the term. Singh is King.(according to Wikipedia Bindra is a fifth generation descendant of legendary Sikh warrior Sardar Hari Singh Nalwa on his mother's side) He is also blogging and you can get it here.

Vijender, Sushil,Akhil, Saina are all promising youth of India. We have to learn from China, to start preparing well in advance for the next Olympics and try to achieve some spectacular results in future. China was also almost re-built in these years to host this fete.
My son asked me last evening “Amma, do you know, if Phelps was a country, he would have been 10th on the medal list?” !!!!. With our kind of population we are 50 on the list. Our next dream should be to have many more of our kids representing our country, many more winners and all proud Indians. I have started to believe…

City tour , Eating out and Jaane tu

2008-08-13T17:28:00.000+05:30

Had been to Jaane tu last week. Nothing special about the story line or the narration, yet at least personally I was not disappointed. I carried home with me the two songs Jaane Tu and Khabhi Khabhi Aditi .ARR- Encore. Every time I listen to it, I feel lighter. Such songs never let the ‘romantic’ in you die. Rashid Ali has got some magical powers in his voice. He sings it with such ease and sometimes feels like sliding blob of butter and it makes me yearn for more. ARR himself renders a classic in between which stays for a long time, like “Khwaja” in Jodha Akbar and “Tu Bole Mein Boloon” in this. As for Imran Khan’s debut, what can be a better platform? No violence, no nonsense in the name of romance and no indiscipline and Jenilia – definitely better when it came to performance.
Had a lot of wonderful people visiting us which was enjoyable. Had been eating out a lot and going around almost everyday. Had a piping hot date pan cake with vanilla ice cream in Moti Mahal which was just amazing. The monsoon has been bad yet we did not let that affect our city tours and shopping. Almost whole of Bombay is on sale. Has been another hectic yet lovely fortnight.

Vincy's wedding

2008-07-28T14:38:00.001+05:30

The whole family was looking forward to our ‘little boy’ Vinod’s wedding. There was a lot of anticipation ever since the engagement took place. The excitement was more because Vinod and Nigethana hadn’t seen one another and we would all be traveling to Trichy together to attend the wedding. For me, personally though, there was another reason. I was looking forward to meet, Bharathi, my school mate from Neyveli.
The arrangements were systematically done. It started with the party at home, the Mehandi; the food catered which left everyone with abundant time. Though our railway staff did goof up a bit and did not allow of few to par take in all the fun. The others who got an opportunity to travel in our compartment had a ball. Krithi and I missed Aaju and Abhi .It also helped Krithi to pretend to be as young as what he thought he was!!! He evaded my proximity and enjoyed the company of the “youth”. The hosts where very particular that we did not have to even lug our bags to our respective rooms. It was all automatically shifted and organized. Our boys, Aadi, Hemu and Abhishek where so co-operative and magnanimous that they never complained about the bathrooms or for that matter about anything. They were so fully involved and came along happily for the temple visits. Krithi had got an Innova organized and all temples were covered. Could not make it to the SriRangam temple. HE chose so!!! I was very happy to go with Bharathi in her Kinetic pleasure to the Ucchi Pillayar temple and to her house from there on. It was a “liberating experience” like being back in teeny days. Thanks to Bharathi for making it happen. Had lunch at her place. Was reminded of having eaten a meal cooked by her – years ago. Back in the Mandapam, all the women/ girls wore the sarree that was gifted to us for the wedding and it was all bright and nice.. The food was good and even better was the hospitality.. Kamesh stole the show with his dance and Vidhya and Chandra were very sporty. Never have I seen the bride’s side being so uninhibited. Nigethana’s patti was just awesome, with her dance for “Vala Meenukkum Vilangu meenukkum” song. The way she managed her hand bag and swirled!!!  .Apart from this, if I were to ask myself what I really liked??? The 'Jodi' of course, Nikku's Koorai sari's blouse, Dr and Uma's participation, Bhuvana's song,the presence of chithappa's good ol' friend from Madurai with his wife, and the 'big' family photograph. The wedding went of as smoothly as it was designed and we left for Chennai in batchesIn the last fifteen years this happens to be the only family function that Krithi and I have attended together apart from our boys’ upanayanam.!!!

A memorable Day-Thane

2008-07-01T09:38:00.001+05:30

It was just another day when I got up last Saturday the 28th of June ’08. Krithi was away on job and was to return around noon. That way it was different, as I had to cook a meal in the morning… But, Krithi came home with an invitation from an old friend. Considering my depression, I would have sulked. But, I did not and I thank my stars for it. It turned out to be one of my most memorable days. Again it is the people who assembled and made it happen. A visit to Nagi’s place is always very enjoyable. I haven’t come across another person, with such admirable narrative skills. If I am to mention a couple of more people then I would have to go back to same group and it would be Pari and Kumar. They have this “Skill” which can make any mundane incidence sound like an adventure.. The narration about, their bachelor parties, ‘puli dance’, Krithi’s swimming and dancing talents where ‘hot’ topics for the nth time. Yet every time it sounds so different and provokes the same interest. Went out to an Exotic restaurant called Exotica up a small hill for dinner. A hearty laugh, good food, interesting people , fond memories and children who are ‘grown –ups’ What more could one ask for to have a “ different weekend” . I thank God for the kind of lovely people HE has given and pray that HE blesses each and everyone.Forgot my camera and thanks to Kumar for the forwards...

Forced Break

2008-06-17T19:53:00.001+05:30

It has been a long break. Too many things happening in between- Few anxious moments and few exhilarating ones. We were asked to vacate our house with less than a weeks notice and did not have a place to move into. Managed to finalize one in the same building and after ascertaining repeatedly that we will have a place after three weeks, we decided to leave the things in the warehouse of the packers and forced ourselves a holiday. When we were just about to hand over the keys, the owner suddenly changed his mind and asked us to continue in our terms for another 11 months, till Abhi completes his tenth. That was the thing that he refused and we kept asking all the while!!!! We were in a fix but, decided to go with our plans and move upstairs after a short break. The family of four was in five different places and when it was about twenty hours to board the flight we got to know that the new flat was not getting vacant till end of July. We called the old owner. It was a real comedy of errors. We moved into the same flat where we had been living all these years after three weeks of Vanavasam and spending a huge amount unnecessarily. In times like this I tend to think how much a victim to circumstances we all become, even if you plan ahead of a curve. Things were lost, broken, missed, but now everything is falling in place. Back with telephone connection and internet is here.
The brighter side of it, I got to spend a lot of time with my nieces and nephews and I enjoyed every moment of it. It was nice to see my boys growing up into young men with a lot of goodness. I was of some support to my sis who underwent a surgery, satiated my parent’s wishes by staying there for few days. Caught up with many of my cousins and elders of the family. Aaju won a trip to Seattle and is leaving in July. By the end of it all I feel, “All is well that ends well”.

Dasavathaaram

2008-06-17T11:22:00.000+05:30

Saw Dasavathaaram on Sunday. Passion with Hard work has to pay off. It reflects both at its optimum. I think people should go to the Cinema halls and see such movies. To pick up Kamal’s best in the ten was interesting. My pick would be the investigative officer Balram Naidu. If one is not looking only for flaws, then I’m sure one can enjoy the movie and feel proud of being a contemporary of Kamal Hassan. How very ‘Different’ and ‘Magnificent’. The movie is has everything a film maker wants to achieve… Kudos to our man…Personally I could not help thinking ' What Sujatha would have said had he been alive?'

Grand Prix

2008-04-12T12:49:00.000+05:30

Bahrain Grand Prix is just over. Last year we were there and could not go into the country to watch it, though we had Grand Stand passes for the race. Major confusion in obtaining the Visa. It still hurts thinking of it. Anyways, McLaren was disappointing, Our “Force India!!!” Isn’t it making a mark? Fisichella is making heads turn… So is brand “King Fisher”. It is all over the place, at the airport, in the sky, on the track, in water and where not? Kudos to it. A couple of years back, one of our friends, asked Abinandh to go along with him to meet Vijay Mallya in a gathering. Abi declined the offer to everyone’s surprise. He was around twelve years of age then. When asked if he did not want to see Vijay Mallya, my son said, “I don’t want to see him, I want to be him”. It was after that I started noticing … I’m sure he is an inspiration to many Indians. It is because of his prime association with Liquor and our natural inhibition that we probably don’t hear youngsters considering him a role model but he sure has contributed vastly to stamp India on the world map.

Chote Ustad

2008-04-06T00:30:00.000+05:30

The results of Chote Ustad were just announced on Star Plus and Aishwarya won the title.. All along I had thought that she would win the competition, but the versatility Anvesha exhibited today , proved that she shared the stage due to sheer talent .. I even hoped she would walk away with the title had that been the deciding performance. To even speak coherently in the presence of Bacchan senior is good enough .To carry oneself with style, sing such a demanding song and perform for it!!! Got a chance of being a part of the audience for Amul Voice of India 2007. It got over around 10pm and the so called live telecast on TV was going on even after I got back home till a little over midnight. Cannot believe my own eyes for the kind of energy they have on stage, to perform non stop for 3 to 4 hours like professionals!! My God, again I feel the kids of today are amazing. As a winner, Aishwarya thanked the judges, the sponsor’s, her parents, Poora Hindustan for voting, the entire world, and the Galaxy!!! I won’t be surprised if one day a just born child thanks the doctor for conducting a c-section well and bringing him out into this world!!! Gen-next never seize to fascinate me.

Alone...

2008-03-28T18:46:00.000+05:30

Had been to Jodhaa Akbar. Alone. How much interest you show in corporate affairs, Moto racing, football, cricket and give company to all at home and serve them during matches, when it comes to accompanying for a historical movie, nobody showed any interest . Probably the first movie I went to- alone. Hardly ten people in the theatre and most of them in pairs. I felt very UNCOMFORTABLE and conscious of my loneliness throughout the movie. Felt like I was peeping into someone’s bedroom. On screen also it was either too magnificent that I felt like I was watching some 3D movie or it was Romance. If you have ever wondered what caressing looks meant.!! You should go and watch the chemistry between Aishwarya and Hrithik. With our very own ARR. Paisa vasool. Did not want to miss. But with this experience wouldn’t want to go alone for any other movie which is more than four weeks old!!.

What it takes to ‘Break the Ice”

2008-03-15T10:47:00.000+05:30

Off late, I have come across many families and friends who remark, even in this era of communication, that they are not in-touch with their siblings, nieces or nephews, are no more bosom friends as they once where, and are upset with their grand parents, great aunts, parents, in-laws, or as the case may be.
I knew this young man who had such a problem with his chacha which led to problems with his grand parents who adored him. He just walked out leaving the old couple in trauma. As his good luck has it, he happened to confide in the right person. Someone who believes in systems, in family and in values. It often happens that we speak to someone who give us temporary relief and make us feel we are right. But the treatment would be, even if it is hard, ‘Break the ice”. It is never too late to make an attempt. Ask yourself, “What you want? Do you have it? What is that you get by breaking the relationship? Will it make you happier than what you are? Can you take it if it happens to your loved ones or in between them? Will you loose by initiating? Once you get a convincing answer, then it becomes easier. We told this young man that he should take the first step and made him call his grand mom from home. It just took seconds to say sorry and get talking. It was later found out that she was hospitalized and was not in a good condition. His visit made her sit up and eventually started with touching his chacha's feet and they are a 'family' again. It is not without reason “we feel blessed” in situations like this. Many a times, after deciding between two factors, I have been left confused and uncertain. It is not often, I am actually proud of having achieved something. So with pride, I can claim that two lovely people have been brought together and more for their benefit. There are many chain mails getting circulated about these things now days, but, with pride I proclaim, it does pay to break the ice…. Try it today, before it is too late. God only knows, what is in store for us….No harm in trying and if it works please leave a message for me…

Writer Sujatha

2008-03-14T10:01:00.000+05:30

Almost all magazines carry writer Sujatha’s picture on the cover and articles about him and his immortal works. Cannot complete reading the article without tears filling up my eyes. Though I myself am an avid fan to his works, I know a friend of mine who was willing to give away few days of her life span if that would help him live longer. Another friend of mine who has named his son ‘Vasanth’ and many dogs named ‘Jeeno’ Like his own dialogue in Mudhalvan, “if only life had a re-wind switch”…..The greatest feeling for me is that I also lived under the same part of the sky, had the privilege to read his works as soon as they were released and had friends with whom I could discuss about his short stories and novels. Avaridam, naan Katradhum Petradhum adhigam.. God Bless his soul.

Victory at GABBA.

2008-03-04T18:40:00.000+05:30

What a feeling when our favourites get the Trophy. This victory in particular shows, it is not easy to be a leader, take responsibility in crisis and show what it s to be in a team, when you win. Dhoni did an incredible job. Took the back seat as soon as he got the trophy and let the Team celebrate. It is amazing, how the youth of today conduct themselves and carry “Success” on their shoulders and not let it get too much into their head. Be it the “Chote usthaad” or “Airtel Super Singer” or the under nineteen cricket team, they make use of the opportunity given to its optimum. The future of India is really prospective…Bharath Maatha ki Jai
Yet not to forget that experience (Sachin) has contributed in its own way!!!

Who is a Mumbaikar?

2008-02-25T16:42:00.000+05:30

If you ask me, for how many years I've been living in Mumbai to feel belonged, you may not get a convincing number..Does that mean I'm less related to the place? This place has something that made me fall in love with it the minute I stepped on its soil. It is the people who make a place after all and with pride I used to proclaim that this place has got versatality at its peak.The people, their warmth, the culture, safety, party, all in one vast "city that never sleeps". Be it the deluge or a bomb blast this city has in it the ability to spring back into action and stay united. Personally I have learnt a lot after coming here and so have many people whom I have met. A Mumbaikar is one who smiles inspite of the rush and hurry, never refuses to help a fellow passenger, is always around without questioning about ones roots . Who is happy in its progress and sad when there is a calamity or set back, who wants to give back in his own way, with love, to this city, what it has given to him. I think each and everyone who loves the place has the right to live here and feel belonged. There is something very special about this place which should never get contaminated. So anyone who is a Mumbaikar will stay united as always and make the country proud. Shoaib Akhtar has expressed it beautifully, what I always felt, "More than a city, Mumbai is an addiction" .Live an Indian-Love the World......

Taare Zameen Par

2008-02-22T17:57:00.000+05:30

Every parent is recommended to see Taare Zameen Par. It is undoubtedly a very bold attempt straight out of life. It goes to prove how a child with a learning diability looks at the world in his own imaginative way and tries to express it. Now this is where I feel a role of a parent starts.
Listen-When there is an expression, pay attention.In this competitive world we teach our children to question and argue, but we fail to teach them to listen.Churchill says, "Courage is not only to stand up and speak, courage is also to sit down and listen".As a parent teach them that there is nothing wrong in asking or at times even demanding, but they have to listen to whomever they talk to .You set an example for this.
Agree- If an agreement is not attained at an end of an arguement, Progress is not possible. Teach them to look at the "Goal" as a target and not the "Opponent'. It is imperative to show them as parents that we come to an agreement after every arguement. It is also equally important to bring small changes in ourselves to rear a generation of better human beings.
Share-Things are to be used and People are to be loved. Tell them it should never be otherwise. Why do we force them with goodies and teach them to be selfish? Show them there is joy in sharing and giving.
Live and let live- One of my good friends , has done a research on the attitude of todays Indian parent and says that the real possessions do not matter as much as the relative ones. It has to be better than the one next door.It is the same feeling we drill into our kids. Teach them to enjoy what they have and share and live life king size. We have to inculcate in them values and teach them not only to dream about a Clean, Green,Uncorrupt,Rich India but also to express, listen , agree , help in progress and Live their life.

"Sweet are the uses of Adversity"

2008-02-21T13:49:00.000+05:30

When one goes through hard times it can be termed as "traumatic" or "a learning experience".It cannot be denied, that after you succesfully cross the tough times, you emerge as a much stronger person, more spiritual most of the times and more knowledgable always. You get introduced to the people you have known for a long period and many materialistic things seem so trivial .What matters in times like this would be , 'having true friends and being together as a family'. You see how little kids grow up in front of your eyes and you feel proud of the lessons you learnt , and laugh at the fear of the tests you have taken.
"Tough times don't last long.....tough people do"

Buying cars today...

2008-02-18T15:29:00.000+05:30

We had to finalise on which car to buy and after a lot of debate said, " a SUV it will be" . Krithi is in love with Ford and decided on behalf of all of us "an Endeavour it will be". One has to wait for a minimum of one month for a black colour vehicle!!! The dealer decideds on behalf of everyone that "Jeans Blue" it will be..So we are again back in square one is it gonna be an Accord or a SUV???
Went out for lunch at Kobe's to celebrate home coming of Ford Endeavour. Kobe's did not have gas supply, so shifted to Bombay Blue.Ahluwalia uncle and aunty, Shila, Smita and I were there. Told uncle about the democracy in a complaining tone. He told me" Of course it is democracy.Krithi got three of you to vote" People like uncle and aunty make life so interesting and make it seem so simple. Otherwise I would have fought over this matter for days together with Krithi.