It's that part of year again when my skin color gets more black. Yes, it's possible! Around 1.5 hours of tennis everyday is enough to bring the change. And it takes hard work of Michigan winter to make the color a bit light. Anyway this post is not about my skin color, so no comments appreciated for that ;-)
The tennis tournament organized last year was a huge hit, as were Vikram's match updates. The magic would be relived this year, and on a bigger scale. We learnt a few lessons last time around. So hopefully tournament would be organized on a more elaborate scale. Compared to knock-out matches of last time, we would have league matches in 1st round. That would ensure atleast 3 or 4 matches even for a weak player. Also, the people are getting better at playing. That too should make the matches more interesting. (Although I can't complain much as I won the doubles tourney with Saurav as my partner :-))
Apart from tennis many small small things are happening. I am going to UK on this 30th. Would be with Big B for full week. That sure would be nice! Might get to meet Vineesh too. That would be an added bonus :-). Kapahi would be coming to US in July. Would get to meet that bugger after more than 1.5 years! He has got admission for MS in Iowa University. Work for ASHA is again on a go. We recently organized a semi-classical concert. It was a good event and generated good funds. Now work is going on for 5K Walk/Run event in August. There is a positive recognition for the work we are doing. People are listening to us and are contributing in anyway possible. That's always a good thing :-). The journey with ASHA has been more rewarding than I expected. Might even get to listen to Sandeep Pandey this weekend! What more could I ask for.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Thursday, May 25, 2006
Whats the answer?
Sure, you would think you know the answer if you just glance through the question. But if you really think hard and dig below the surface, you would know what I mean. So dont just rush to an answer or next question. Before you move on, ponder over the answer and think if it really makes sense!
1. Does God really exist?
2. If yes, who created God?
3. Would you really be more happy if you get the job you always wanted?
4. If you had power, Would you have stopped Britain from ruling over India?
5. What's the volume of this universe?
6. What's your dad's name?
Please dont be mad at me!! I added the last question just to have some fun at your expense :-).. The other 5 questions still make perfect sense.
1. Does God really exist?
2. If yes, who created God?
3. Would you really be more happy if you get the job you always wanted?
4. If you had power, Would you have stopped Britain from ruling over India?
5. What's the volume of this universe?
6. What's your dad's name?
Please dont be mad at me!! I added the last question just to have some fun at your expense :-).. The other 5 questions still make perfect sense.
Sunday, April 23, 2006
Abhi's Tag
Hi ppl!
I have been tagged by Abhi. It took LOT of time filling it up, and man it gets way too personal. Anyway here it goes.
5 people who top your shit list….. and why:
1. George Bush.. for manipulating the whole world so that he could win one more election. And for being the dumbest president US has ever seen. That shows what can happen if you give power to a stupid person.
2. V P Singh for the gift of reservation.
3. Nehru and Jinnah for dividing India, and being the cause of masscares in Punjab (on both sides of the border)
4. Indian police.. for being the paid mob.. for being one of the reason there is no law in India.
5. People who would screw you over for a petty gain. You see such people everywhere.. In your profession, in business, on streets.
Close brushes with death/danger:
1. I was pretty young at the time. We had gone to Rishikesh for bath in Ganga. I didnt know swimming then, but I wanted to learn. So I decided to give it a try!! Ganga was in full fury then because of the recent rains. My dad and his friends had gone quite a bit ahead to take bath. I was at the shallow end near the stairs. I started to try swimming, and the next thing I know I was under water, and drowning. And the worst part was I didnt realize that I was drowning! So I was not shouting for help. I was just floating just beneath the top surface of water and flowing along with the current of the river. Suddenly someone caught me and pulled my head from under the water. It was Tarsem Uncle, and he was now holding me. My dad came there too and then took me to the shore. I dont even remember if he was saying anything. Maybe everyone was silent, comprehending what had just happened. It was only then it struck me that I would have drowned and probably be dead, if uncle had not spotted me. This was the closest I ever came to death.
2. It was a weekday. We (me, Blesson, Santosh) got ready for office, and started in Blesson's car for office. All of us were talking and having a nice time. We were on Featherstone road, and were approaching Chrysler Drive intersection. The signal was red, and I thought that we would break anytime soon. But somehow we didnt stop, and hit a minivan going prependicular to as. The impact speed would have been around 60 mph. I remember the last few moments before hitting! It was dawning on me that car would not stop and that we would soon hit the minivan. Fortunately I didnt get much time to think what would happen if we hit. As and when we hit, the airbag came to life. (I was in passenger seat). It hit my nose with good speed. Thank God that was all there was to it. Ofcourse our car was declared total wreck. But all of us were safe.
5 Preferable modes of suicide, in descending order:
1. Cyanide mixed in orange juice
2. Bullet in head
3. An explosion where death would be totally instantaneous
4. Falling from a very very tall building
5. Drowning
5 Guilty pleasures:
1. Having that extra helping of dessert even when I am full.
2. Discussing people's personal life.
3. Sleeping for that extra half hour in the morning.
4. Watching the movie till 1am.
5. Postponing the preparation for anything to the last moment.
5 days you never want to forget:
1. The day I got CAT scorecard stating that I had got 97 percentile. I had not prepared for the exam, and I was praying that I should get 80+ atleast.
2. The day I was able to make my sister laugh for the first time. She was 2 years old I guess.
3. The day we secretly (from seniors) went to Kodaikanal in our first sem. It was my first trip with just friends. The excitement was at peak with the thought that some senior might be there in Kodaikanal too!
4. The day I landed in US, and was watching every thing in amazement.
5. The day I got my first ever prize. Till then it was my brother who used to gather prizes :-). That day I joined him! I can still remember how excited I was when I held the prize. Thankfully I have a picture capturing my excitement.
5 things you wish to forget:
1. The days I fought with my sis.
2. There is really not much I want to forget!
5 really exotic dishes you have tried:
I haven't tried any "really" exotic dishes.
5 crushes/loves in your life… in chronological order
1. Sreedevi (Mr. India)
2. Manisha Koirala (Agnisakshi)
3. Meera Vasudevan (Rules)
4. Michelle Pfeiffer (What lies beneath)
5. Charlize Theron (Sweet November)
Ofcourse there have been real life crushes too. But I cannot mention them without embarassing myself or the girl.
Strangest dream you ever had:
I somehow end up fighting! Earlier I used to dream that my friends were fighting for me. Now I dream that I am fighting for them! Strangely knife and guns are used pretty common. And whats more strange is that nothing happens to me even when I am hit with bullets!! In the funniest/strangest dream I ever had, I was hit with 4 bullets. After that I sit in a bus to go to a doctor so that I can get treatment!! On the way I come to know that the doctor is a Bangladeshi. I refuse treatment from him saying that I dont believe he would be able to do a good job. I am arguing with people over this. Finally I go to my bro for treatment. Again we are talking as if I had caught common cold.
5 most valued personal possessions:
1. My mind
2. My sister
3. My personal diary
4. My pics (from the time I was a kid)
5. The pen my grandfather gave me.
5 favorite superheroes….. and why:
1. Spiderman.. for the way he uses his web! Be it stopping a car, or travelling from one building to another. Its real cool!
2. Bhagat Singh.. for his thoughts and actions. If only we had half as much guts and conviction as him, the world would be a better place.
3. Sardar Patel.. for giving us India as we know it today.
4. Amitabh Bachchan.. for the countless emotional rides he has taken us on with his movies. Be it comedy, action or melodrama.. he is THE KING of all!
5. Ramanujan.. for being the brightest Indian ever. He makes us all proud that we are from the same country!
I am hereby tagging Vineesh, Kutty, Vithal, Sookie and Kingkong. I am supposed to tag just 5 ppl, but cant help the temptation to tag Anuj also :-)
I have been tagged by Abhi. It took LOT of time filling it up, and man it gets way too personal. Anyway here it goes.
5 people who top your shit list….. and why:
1. George Bush.. for manipulating the whole world so that he could win one more election. And for being the dumbest president US has ever seen. That shows what can happen if you give power to a stupid person.
2. V P Singh for the gift of reservation.
3. Nehru and Jinnah for dividing India, and being the cause of masscares in Punjab (on both sides of the border)
4. Indian police.. for being the paid mob.. for being one of the reason there is no law in India.
5. People who would screw you over for a petty gain. You see such people everywhere.. In your profession, in business, on streets.
Close brushes with death/danger:
1. I was pretty young at the time. We had gone to Rishikesh for bath in Ganga. I didnt know swimming then, but I wanted to learn. So I decided to give it a try!! Ganga was in full fury then because of the recent rains. My dad and his friends had gone quite a bit ahead to take bath. I was at the shallow end near the stairs. I started to try swimming, and the next thing I know I was under water, and drowning. And the worst part was I didnt realize that I was drowning! So I was not shouting for help. I was just floating just beneath the top surface of water and flowing along with the current of the river. Suddenly someone caught me and pulled my head from under the water. It was Tarsem Uncle, and he was now holding me. My dad came there too and then took me to the shore. I dont even remember if he was saying anything. Maybe everyone was silent, comprehending what had just happened. It was only then it struck me that I would have drowned and probably be dead, if uncle had not spotted me. This was the closest I ever came to death.
2. It was a weekday. We (me, Blesson, Santosh) got ready for office, and started in Blesson's car for office. All of us were talking and having a nice time. We were on Featherstone road, and were approaching Chrysler Drive intersection. The signal was red, and I thought that we would break anytime soon. But somehow we didnt stop, and hit a minivan going prependicular to as. The impact speed would have been around 60 mph. I remember the last few moments before hitting! It was dawning on me that car would not stop and that we would soon hit the minivan. Fortunately I didnt get much time to think what would happen if we hit. As and when we hit, the airbag came to life. (I was in passenger seat). It hit my nose with good speed. Thank God that was all there was to it. Ofcourse our car was declared total wreck. But all of us were safe.
5 Preferable modes of suicide, in descending order:
1. Cyanide mixed in orange juice
2. Bullet in head
3. An explosion where death would be totally instantaneous
4. Falling from a very very tall building
5. Drowning
5 Guilty pleasures:
1. Having that extra helping of dessert even when I am full.
2. Discussing people's personal life.
3. Sleeping for that extra half hour in the morning.
4. Watching the movie till 1am.
5. Postponing the preparation for anything to the last moment.
5 days you never want to forget:
1. The day I got CAT scorecard stating that I had got 97 percentile. I had not prepared for the exam, and I was praying that I should get 80+ atleast.
2. The day I was able to make my sister laugh for the first time. She was 2 years old I guess.
3. The day we secretly (from seniors) went to Kodaikanal in our first sem. It was my first trip with just friends. The excitement was at peak with the thought that some senior might be there in Kodaikanal too!
4. The day I landed in US, and was watching every thing in amazement.
5. The day I got my first ever prize. Till then it was my brother who used to gather prizes :-). That day I joined him! I can still remember how excited I was when I held the prize. Thankfully I have a picture capturing my excitement.
5 things you wish to forget:
1. The days I fought with my sis.
2. There is really not much I want to forget!
5 really exotic dishes you have tried:
I haven't tried any "really" exotic dishes.
5 crushes/loves in your life… in chronological order
1. Sreedevi (Mr. India)
2. Manisha Koirala (Agnisakshi)
3. Meera Vasudevan (Rules)
4. Michelle Pfeiffer (What lies beneath)
5. Charlize Theron (Sweet November)
Ofcourse there have been real life crushes too. But I cannot mention them without embarassing myself or the girl.
Strangest dream you ever had:
I somehow end up fighting! Earlier I used to dream that my friends were fighting for me. Now I dream that I am fighting for them! Strangely knife and guns are used pretty common. And whats more strange is that nothing happens to me even when I am hit with bullets!! In the funniest/strangest dream I ever had, I was hit with 4 bullets. After that I sit in a bus to go to a doctor so that I can get treatment!! On the way I come to know that the doctor is a Bangladeshi. I refuse treatment from him saying that I dont believe he would be able to do a good job. I am arguing with people over this. Finally I go to my bro for treatment. Again we are talking as if I had caught common cold.
5 most valued personal possessions:
1. My mind
2. My sister
3. My personal diary
4. My pics (from the time I was a kid)
5. The pen my grandfather gave me.
5 favorite superheroes….. and why:
1. Spiderman.. for the way he uses his web! Be it stopping a car, or travelling from one building to another. Its real cool!
2. Bhagat Singh.. for his thoughts and actions. If only we had half as much guts and conviction as him, the world would be a better place.
3. Sardar Patel.. for giving us India as we know it today.
4. Amitabh Bachchan.. for the countless emotional rides he has taken us on with his movies. Be it comedy, action or melodrama.. he is THE KING of all!
5. Ramanujan.. for being the brightest Indian ever. He makes us all proud that we are from the same country!
I am hereby tagging Vineesh, Kutty, Vithal, Sookie and Kingkong. I am supposed to tag just 5 ppl, but cant help the temptation to tag Anuj also :-)
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Change is all around!
It was not long ago when I was a die hard fan of cricket. And today I dont care much about it. Part of it happened because of match fixing scandal. And rest of it happened because watching cricket was not that easy anymore!
If you like sports, you cannot stay away from it for a long time. So naturally my interest shifted to Tennis. Oh I just love it! Even when I was a kid, I used to like it. I used to follow Sampras, Steffi Graff, Agassi, Monica Seles.. even Chang!! Agassi and Seles were my favorites for some reason. Maybe because they were underdogs. Even this has changed now. I like Federer. Actually that would be an understatement!! But does anyone has words to describe this guy??! I first watched him play when I was in Bangalore. And he has been my favorite ever since!! Its not my fault though..How can you help it when God himself is writing poetry in middle of the court!
I always wanted to play tennis! Got a chance here in US, and I am making full use of it!! Every evening is busy thanks to tennis :-). Ofcourse I feel the pain in legs when I come back from the court, but the thing that counts is that I feel no pain when I enter the court :)
If you like sports, you cannot stay away from it for a long time. So naturally my interest shifted to Tennis. Oh I just love it! Even when I was a kid, I used to like it. I used to follow Sampras, Steffi Graff, Agassi, Monica Seles.. even Chang!! Agassi and Seles were my favorites for some reason. Maybe because they were underdogs. Even this has changed now. I like Federer. Actually that would be an understatement!! But does anyone has words to describe this guy??! I first watched him play when I was in Bangalore. And he has been my favorite ever since!! Its not my fault though..How can you help it when God himself is writing poetry in middle of the court!
I always wanted to play tennis! Got a chance here in US, and I am making full use of it!! Every evening is busy thanks to tennis :-). Ofcourse I feel the pain in legs when I come back from the court, but the thing that counts is that I feel no pain when I enter the court :)
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Out of Place
I look around, and everything seems to be in place. The majestic trees are standing tall. The geese are taking tiny steps on the grass. The crescent shaped moon is lighting the night. I mean everything is just in place, serving its purpose. At times like this it strikes me like a bolt of lightning that I am so out of place. I feel small, insecure and alone. It might be insecure twenties (as Sookie said in her blog), but I feel there is more to it. I feel it’s a far more personal thing, and that these very moments decide who we really are. In normal times, I cannot tell myself from any other guy.
Well, today is turning out to be a pretty bad day. In the morning decided to talk to a friend. Tried a dozen times, but the phone was out of range. I didn’t think of it much at that time, but as I am writing this, I am realizing that the start of the day itself went bad. After that I got hit by three personal problems over a period of time. Each of them makes me feel insecure. I wonder if that’s how the life is meant to be lived. I believe in nature, and I believe in God. I believe each and every living/non-living thing has a purpose, and each moment is part of a journey. So the question is, why I am here, and where am I going? But all I have as of now are questions. Only questions, no answers. Clouds have covered the moon and it’s very dark out there.
Well, today is turning out to be a pretty bad day. In the morning decided to talk to a friend. Tried a dozen times, but the phone was out of range. I didn’t think of it much at that time, but as I am writing this, I am realizing that the start of the day itself went bad. After that I got hit by three personal problems over a period of time. Each of them makes me feel insecure. I wonder if that’s how the life is meant to be lived. I believe in nature, and I believe in God. I believe each and every living/non-living thing has a purpose, and each moment is part of a journey. So the question is, why I am here, and where am I going? But all I have as of now are questions. Only questions, no answers. Clouds have covered the moon and it’s very dark out there.
Sunday, March 19, 2006
Euro Trip!
I got my UK VISA last Thursday. Its a visitor visa valid for 6 months. Thats pretty cool as I plan to visit my bro in July 1st week. Just need to book the tickets now. Will be doing that today night :).. And this week would apply for my schenegan visa. I have always wanted to see Eiffel Tower in night. So I guess this is my chance! I could have never thought about all this just a few years back when I was in college. Well good for me that things are different today! And I am gonna make the most of them!!
Saturday, March 18, 2006
India minus IT
I often wonder what would we all be doing if India was not having IT industry. A little hard to imagine right?! People have discussed to death the reasons for India becoming a force in IT, so I dont need to repeat them.
I just wonder what my other job would have been, and how difficult/easy would it have been. My best guess is Control Engineer in some textile/steel industry! The 2nd best guess is that I would have started out as JE (Junior Engineer) in PSEB (Punjab State Electricity Board). Ofcourse my dad would have had asked for few favors :-)
Almost daily one of my friend would say how they hate their job!! Thats because many times we often take things for granted. We crib even when inside of us knows that at the moment thats the best place we are in. Anyway thats what I think.
A little question to close the post - What job you would have been in, if not for your current job?!
I just wonder what my other job would have been, and how difficult/easy would it have been. My best guess is Control Engineer in some textile/steel industry! The 2nd best guess is that I would have started out as JE (Junior Engineer) in PSEB (Punjab State Electricity Board). Ofcourse my dad would have had asked for few favors :-)
Almost daily one of my friend would say how they hate their job!! Thats because many times we often take things for granted. We crib even when inside of us knows that at the moment thats the best place we are in. Anyway thats what I think.
A little question to close the post - What job you would have been in, if not for your current job?!
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
India or US
This is the question everyone asks me. I ask this question myself too! And I dont have a clue. I am still in dilemma as whether to settle in India or US. The answer to this question would decide where I pursue my MBA.
The answer would have had been easy if MBA in US was not so expensive. I have second thoughts whenever the figure of 70,000 USD crosses my mind!! Well lets see what direction I turn too. Guys, help me decide bcoz time is a factor here!!
The answer would have had been easy if MBA in US was not so expensive. I have second thoughts whenever the figure of 70,000 USD crosses my mind!! Well lets see what direction I turn too. Guys, help me decide bcoz time is a factor here!!
Saturday, March 11, 2006
Nice days are back again!
The weather today was nice after ages (or so it seems)!.. It wont be long before we would be carrying our racquets and enter the tennis court. Man, I am waiting for that day :). The wait was fuelled today, by TT tourney organized by ASHA Detroit.
It was tough competition from round-1 itself. I am in best position to comment this, as I was the referee till semi-finals. God, those guys knew how to play!! Allen (just a 14 year old kid from Chinky land) was a treat to watch! So were doubles team Jerry/Jamal.
Anyway, coming back online, we had a nice little party at home today.. It was given by few of our colleagues (they got a promotion). Our house got cleaned on this yearly event :-). Well that brings to end good part of the weekend. Its already 2.30am, and Sunday will be over before I know it! But hey, its time to have some nice dreams now. Signing off.
It was tough competition from round-1 itself. I am in best position to comment this, as I was the referee till semi-finals. God, those guys knew how to play!! Allen (just a 14 year old kid from Chinky land) was a treat to watch! So were doubles team Jerry/Jamal.
Anyway, coming back online, we had a nice little party at home today.. It was given by few of our colleagues (they got a promotion). Our house got cleaned on this yearly event :-). Well that brings to end good part of the weekend. Its already 2.30am, and Sunday will be over before I know it! But hey, its time to have some nice dreams now. Signing off.
Monday, February 27, 2006
My first step!
Finally I attended my first ASHA meeting! I attended it this Sunday. We discussed on how to raise funds for projects back in India. We are much better positioned to do this, being in US. ASHA Detroit has around 12 active volunteers (will be 13 once I get active ;-)) raises around USD 25,000 each year, to support 4 projects in India.
This year, we are organizing TARANGINI (a musical and dance event), 5K walk/run, Table Tennis and Volleybal competitions. As my first step, I would concentrate on making TARANGINI a success. Would be trying to promote the event, sell tickets, and get sponsorships. Hoping for the best. Sreeraj is giving me company in all this. He also believes in making a change!!
I have been wanting to do this for a long time now. Finally got energinzed enough to quell all the laziness! Hey kaddu, hope you are happy! Get well soon now, and start giving me tips!!
This year, we are organizing TARANGINI (a musical and dance event), 5K walk/run, Table Tennis and Volleybal competitions. As my first step, I would concentrate on making TARANGINI a success. Would be trying to promote the event, sell tickets, and get sponsorships. Hoping for the best. Sreeraj is giving me company in all this. He also believes in making a change!!
I have been wanting to do this for a long time now. Finally got energinzed enough to quell all the laziness! Hey kaddu, hope you are happy! Get well soon now, and start giving me tips!!
Saturday, February 18, 2006
5 Step Para to have a better pay
If you want to have a better pay, then read on this concise 5 step para.
1. If you are reading this, that means you are not satisfied with your pay. And if of all the places you decide to read this blog, then quit it, you will not get a pay hike!!
2. If you are still reading, that means you think this is some fun stuff. Quit it, I am about to give some serious advice to land a pay hike.
3. Well you are still here, arent you? Please refer to step 1, you are not going to get a pay hike. So QUIT it.
4. Ah, I am here, so are you. And whom am I kidding?! I am no expert in these matters, so I will save you the agony of step 5. Bye...
1. If you are reading this, that means you are not satisfied with your pay. And if of all the places you decide to read this blog, then quit it, you will not get a pay hike!!
2. If you are still reading, that means you think this is some fun stuff. Quit it, I am about to give some serious advice to land a pay hike.
3. Well you are still here, arent you? Please refer to step 1, you are not going to get a pay hike. So QUIT it.
4. Ah, I am here, so are you. And whom am I kidding?! I am no expert in these matters, so I will save you the agony of step 5. Bye...
Saturday, November 19, 2005
The most overused lines in blog?
My all time favorite is:
"I am blogging after a long time. But I plan to write more often from now on".
Comeon!, as if we are falling head over heals to read your stuff! Just kidding :-) You are most welcome to suggest your favorites!
"I am blogging after a long time. But I plan to write more often from now on".
Comeon!, as if we are falling head over heals to read your stuff! Just kidding :-) You are most welcome to suggest your favorites!
Monday, November 14, 2005
Politics!
Richard L Kempe said "Favoritism is the only use of politics." He couldnt be more wrong!! I have objection to the word ONLY!!
Its strange how our perceptions change as we growup. I remember writing in my diary that my role models were Gandhi, and Nehru. This was way back in my 4th standard. Things have changed since!
Back in 9th standard, I remember asking my dad his favored party. His response was 'Politics is a scoundrel's game'. I was least expecting this response!! And I was not able to understand it completely at that time. I was starting to dislike Congress, and BJP was my new favorite (like I had a choice). This was because dad used to say if Congress 360 degrees corrupt, then BJP is 280 degrees corrupt. I guess even he didnt know completely about BJP as it was never in power before (atleast for a significant period of time). Now that I have had a chance to observe our nations so called poilitics, even I feel disgusted by it. You can bet that I too will tell my kids (long time!) that politics is a scoundrels game!! There were many key events which helped shaped this perception. I am just going to recount few of them.
First experience one was in my +1. I was studying in DAV jalandhar. My parents had come to take me to home in one of the weekends. As we were coming back, we came across a road which was blocked. Apparently there had to be some speech by some BJP member. So the partymen (around 50 of them) were busy making the preparations. The road was not completely blocked as yet, and we could have got through. So we proceeded. Just then few partymen came and said that the road is blocked, and we should trace our way back. My dad said that we have an urgency and need to get through to a hospital (yes a bluff). But the response of the guy was what shocked me. He said 'Listen man, do you want your car to be broken up, or you want to go back?'. Yes, we did take a longer route to reach home, and this was my first brush with people who govern our country!!
The 2nd experience was when I was doing my engineering. We (me, Pawan and Kapahi) used to spend nights in discussions on various topics. Politics and cricket were the hot favorites. Anyway there was once this ruling by supreme court that all candidates should declare their educational background, and property to the voters. It was seen as a welcome decision by people like me. But then came the unexpected turn of events. I was to see the unity in politics for once. All the parties (I mean ALL!!), came together and vetoed down the ruling!! All the MP's concluded that they cannot be forced to declare their assets and ed background. I still wonder if even one party could stand apart from the crowd and said that 'yes, we welcome the ruling. Our candidates have nothing to hide. Our candidates are not Bhaai's!!'. Alas, it never happened.
The 3rd ongoing experience has been the truth that is hidden from young minds. I used to read how Nehru was chahcha nehru, and how Gandhi is father of the nation. Ofcourse these terms have been given by their fellow congressmen. Now that I get to read what actually happened at that time, I shake my head in disbelief! I read how freedom was granted and not taken (white man's burden). I read how Nehru used to show Chinese that we used to make needles in our defense factories. How Gandhi forced all congressmen to choose Nehru over Sardar Patel. Also how he alienated Boss from congress! And I read how Nehru was photographed early morning in Lady Mountbatten's home in UK. I see the pic of Nehru smoking under a 'No smoking' sign! The last two do not concern me, but still they play a part in building a perception thats not pretty. I can go on and on here, but thats not the point.
The 4th ongoing experience has been to see the judicial system in action when it concerns politicians!! The first landmark case that jolted me was Shah Bano's case. The case demostrated how the temples of justice were insulted by politicians. Since then politicians have been smart and never gave justice any chance. They know supreme court can do anything, so whenever a politician is in trouble the case is referred to a committee. I still dont believe how George Fernandes/Jaya Jaitley got away scott free, even when they were video-taped!! Hats off to politics. The cases on Advani, Soren, Uma Bharati have been dragged on for more than decades. And I am positive that they will be given a clean chit posthumously. Yes I am referring to Rajiv Gandhi in Bofor's case.
Actually this is not all. When I was young, I used to think that I could make a difference to my nation. 'Saare Jahan se achcha, Hindostan hamara'. How can I lie like this now?? I know even if I am made PM amongst the present set of politicians, I will just end up quitting the office. Yes, politics is not for me, its a scoundrels game.
Its strange how our perceptions change as we growup. I remember writing in my diary that my role models were Gandhi, and Nehru. This was way back in my 4th standard. Things have changed since!
Back in 9th standard, I remember asking my dad his favored party. His response was 'Politics is a scoundrel's game'. I was least expecting this response!! And I was not able to understand it completely at that time. I was starting to dislike Congress, and BJP was my new favorite (like I had a choice). This was because dad used to say if Congress 360 degrees corrupt, then BJP is 280 degrees corrupt. I guess even he didnt know completely about BJP as it was never in power before (atleast for a significant period of time). Now that I have had a chance to observe our nations so called poilitics, even I feel disgusted by it. You can bet that I too will tell my kids (long time!) that politics is a scoundrels game!! There were many key events which helped shaped this perception. I am just going to recount few of them.
First experience one was in my +1. I was studying in DAV jalandhar. My parents had come to take me to home in one of the weekends. As we were coming back, we came across a road which was blocked. Apparently there had to be some speech by some BJP member. So the partymen (around 50 of them) were busy making the preparations. The road was not completely blocked as yet, and we could have got through. So we proceeded. Just then few partymen came and said that the road is blocked, and we should trace our way back. My dad said that we have an urgency and need to get through to a hospital (yes a bluff). But the response of the guy was what shocked me. He said 'Listen man, do you want your car to be broken up, or you want to go back?'. Yes, we did take a longer route to reach home, and this was my first brush with people who govern our country!!
The 2nd experience was when I was doing my engineering. We (me, Pawan and Kapahi) used to spend nights in discussions on various topics. Politics and cricket were the hot favorites. Anyway there was once this ruling by supreme court that all candidates should declare their educational background, and property to the voters. It was seen as a welcome decision by people like me. But then came the unexpected turn of events. I was to see the unity in politics for once. All the parties (I mean ALL!!), came together and vetoed down the ruling!! All the MP's concluded that they cannot be forced to declare their assets and ed background. I still wonder if even one party could stand apart from the crowd and said that 'yes, we welcome the ruling. Our candidates have nothing to hide. Our candidates are not Bhaai's!!'. Alas, it never happened.
The 3rd ongoing experience has been the truth that is hidden from young minds. I used to read how Nehru was chahcha nehru, and how Gandhi is father of the nation. Ofcourse these terms have been given by their fellow congressmen. Now that I get to read what actually happened at that time, I shake my head in disbelief! I read how freedom was granted and not taken (white man's burden). I read how Nehru used to show Chinese that we used to make needles in our defense factories. How Gandhi forced all congressmen to choose Nehru over Sardar Patel. Also how he alienated Boss from congress! And I read how Nehru was photographed early morning in Lady Mountbatten's home in UK. I see the pic of Nehru smoking under a 'No smoking' sign! The last two do not concern me, but still they play a part in building a perception thats not pretty. I can go on and on here, but thats not the point.
The 4th ongoing experience has been to see the judicial system in action when it concerns politicians!! The first landmark case that jolted me was Shah Bano's case. The case demostrated how the temples of justice were insulted by politicians. Since then politicians have been smart and never gave justice any chance. They know supreme court can do anything, so whenever a politician is in trouble the case is referred to a committee. I still dont believe how George Fernandes/Jaya Jaitley got away scott free, even when they were video-taped!! Hats off to politics. The cases on Advani, Soren, Uma Bharati have been dragged on for more than decades. And I am positive that they will be given a clean chit posthumously. Yes I am referring to Rajiv Gandhi in Bofor's case.
Actually this is not all. When I was young, I used to think that I could make a difference to my nation. 'Saare Jahan se achcha, Hindostan hamara'. How can I lie like this now?? I know even if I am made PM amongst the present set of politicians, I will just end up quitting the office. Yes, politics is not for me, its a scoundrels game.
Sunday, October 23, 2005
Victory!!
I was bored by the tennis tournament posts.. So this is the last one. And this one is by me (earlier were by Vikram). The good news is that I won the doubles :). The final was against Deepan and Parag. They gave us good fight, but I guess our (me and Saurav) was just better. Plus we had the psychological edge, as Saurav was my partner. He has come to be known as 'Achilles'!! No wonder he won the Singles too!! But hey hey, dont you dare think that I didnt play any part in the victory!! ;-). And just for the record we won, 6-3, 6-4.
I have tormented my friends enough by filling up my blog just by tennis updates for so long. So here comes something different. I am going to India in Dec for 3 weeks. I am real excited for the visit!! It would happen after 13 months away from home. Anyway stay in US has been ok. The winter has started, so its stay at home season now. Well I guess I have roamed around enough. But I have started planning for my next visit :). I am planning to visit UK. My brother is working there, so it will be nice to spend some time with him. His US visit was too short, and I didnt get much time to spend with him. In addition we kept on watching FRIENDS. Yes, he is as hooked to it as me. But his visit left me emotionally weak. Good thing is that visit to home is just a month away. Then again in 6 months I will be off to UK. So things should get better now :)
I have tormented my friends enough by filling up my blog just by tennis updates for so long. So here comes something different. I am going to India in Dec for 3 weeks. I am real excited for the visit!! It would happen after 13 months away from home. Anyway stay in US has been ok. The winter has started, so its stay at home season now. Well I guess I have roamed around enough. But I have started planning for my next visit :). I am planning to visit UK. My brother is working there, so it will be nice to spend some time with him. His US visit was too short, and I didnt get much time to spend with him. In addition we kept on watching FRIENDS. Yes, he is as hooked to it as me. But his visit left me emotionally weak. Good thing is that visit to home is just a month away. Then again in 6 months I will be off to UK. So things should get better now :)
Friday, August 26, 2005
Tennis Tournament Day-18
The Day 16 of the tourney saw the first contender in the final line up, for the singles encounter as the 'Mortal Combat' claimed a brutal victim. Here is the update.
Saurav vs Vijay:
There were very high expectations from this game as both Vijay and Saurav looked strong. But the 'NO MERCY' logo was still evident on Saurav's jersey as he took no time and effort to crush his opponent. I think Saurav has taken the our compliment pretty seriously, he does not want to be second, he wants to be 'The Achilles', the greatest and ruthless warrior to walk on this earth. For the match, Saurav outclassed Vijay in all departments of the game, be it service, be it returns, be it long rallies. Moreover Saurav was able to induce a lot of spin in his shots. It seemed as if, he was finger spinning the ball. Moreover his placements were very accurate, he made it very difficult for Vijay to even reach the ball, and if Vijay did so, the spin would play havoc with Vijay's return. In the entire match Vijay had only one game point and that too was taken by Saurav in deuce. But no discredit to Vijay, he had fought his way hard into the semis. Congratulations to Saurav for making it to the second final (doubles as well as singles) and we can hear the Greeks cheering, Achilles, Achilles, Achilles, Achilles,..................................
Final scoresheet: Saurav beat Vijay: 6-0,6-0
Today's Upcoming Action:
In 'Mortal Combat' for today, it is the clash of room mates, a platform to settle all the bathroom and kitchen squabbles, as Suchit-Pai clash against the Maratha duo of Parag-Deepan. The closest rivals of all time, these guys practise against each other almost every day and we haven't seen 2 teams so closely matched. Our prediction for the day is expect a gruelling 3-setter. Again for some news from the grape vine, we hear that both the teams have had their own one on one sessions to discuss strategies and more than that, there was an evilous silence in the house yesterday night, as some kind of strategies were being cooked .......... lagta hai poori daal hi kaali hai ......... :-) So be there guys to watch this entertaining 'Muqabla'.
Mr.Weather Man is a bit sad, as he has only a few days of job left, but still he predicts a nice weather for today with temp around the 80 deg and partly cloudy skies. It is going to sweltering as the relative humidity is to stay above 60% for most of the time and the sun sets at 8.17pm. And oh, the Weather Man has been courteous enough to give a traffic update as well. The entry to the tennis courts from Bloomfield Villas was closed in the morning, you might have to use Squirrel Road to reach the courts or else you might as well like to walk down, what say health freaks..................
Saurav vs Vijay:
There were very high expectations from this game as both Vijay and Saurav looked strong. But the 'NO MERCY' logo was still evident on Saurav's jersey as he took no time and effort to crush his opponent. I think Saurav has taken the our compliment pretty seriously, he does not want to be second, he wants to be 'The Achilles', the greatest and ruthless warrior to walk on this earth. For the match, Saurav outclassed Vijay in all departments of the game, be it service, be it returns, be it long rallies. Moreover Saurav was able to induce a lot of spin in his shots. It seemed as if, he was finger spinning the ball. Moreover his placements were very accurate, he made it very difficult for Vijay to even reach the ball, and if Vijay did so, the spin would play havoc with Vijay's return. In the entire match Vijay had only one game point and that too was taken by Saurav in deuce. But no discredit to Vijay, he had fought his way hard into the semis. Congratulations to Saurav for making it to the second final (doubles as well as singles) and we can hear the Greeks cheering, Achilles, Achilles, Achilles, Achilles,..................................
Final scoresheet: Saurav beat Vijay: 6-0,6-0
Today's Upcoming Action:
In 'Mortal Combat' for today, it is the clash of room mates, a platform to settle all the bathroom and kitchen squabbles, as Suchit-Pai clash against the Maratha duo of Parag-Deepan. The closest rivals of all time, these guys practise against each other almost every day and we haven't seen 2 teams so closely matched. Our prediction for the day is expect a gruelling 3-setter. Again for some news from the grape vine, we hear that both the teams have had their own one on one sessions to discuss strategies and more than that, there was an evilous silence in the house yesterday night, as some kind of strategies were being cooked .......... lagta hai poori daal hi kaali hai ......... :-) So be there guys to watch this entertaining 'Muqabla'.
Mr.Weather Man is a bit sad, as he has only a few days of job left, but still he predicts a nice weather for today with temp around the 80 deg and partly cloudy skies. It is going to sweltering as the relative humidity is to stay above 60% for most of the time and the sun sets at 8.17pm. And oh, the Weather Man has been courteous enough to give a traffic update as well. The entry to the tennis courts from Bloomfield Villas was closed in the morning, you might have to use Squirrel Road to reach the courts or else you might as well like to walk down, what say health freaks..................
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Tennis Tournament Day-17
Welcome to the updates for Day 17 of the Tennis Tourney as the Mortal Combat took it's first victim.
Venkat-Saurav vs Subhash-Viru:
As per expectations this match started on a tough note when the first game went for a deuce. Viru kept his service and the Sholay duo took the game. As the match progressed from here on, there were some good hard hits, as both the teams are known to be aggressive. Both Subhash and Saurav are aggressive and agile players at the net. There were a few rallies in between which the ball did not bounce, it was a racquet to racquet rally. Moreover a ball hit to Saurav or Subhash would end the point then and there itself. As both of them got their placements right and hit back hard. But it seemed the Sholay boys had the edge as they went on to lead the first set 2-1 but soon enough our Achilles came to form and Venkat-Saurav were leading 3-2. At 4-4 in the first set, Venkat-Saurav were able to break through Viru-Subhash and took the set 6-4. From then on there was no looking back for them as Venkat-Saurav took 5 games in a row to take a convincing lead in the 2nd set 5-0. Subhash-Viru gave a last ditch attempt and took one game but that was just not enough. A Heartiest Congratulations to the winning team for they make it to the finals of the tourney ........... sahi hai bhidu..
Final Result: Venkat-Saurav beat Subhash-Viru: 6-4,6-1
Today's Upcoming Action:
The Indian inspiration needs to work big time today as Vijay faces the Mighty Achilles, Saurav. Again, 2 contrasting styles of play, Saurav, aggressive, fast and agile and Vijay Mr.Slow but consistent. In all his singles games till now, Saurav has the distinction of not losing more than 2 games per match. Will Vijay be able to break this jinx, will he be able to hit the Achilles heel. Or atleast can he put up a respectable fight like 'Hector', be there at 6pm to witness this amazing encounter.
Venkat-Saurav vs Subhash-Viru:
As per expectations this match started on a tough note when the first game went for a deuce. Viru kept his service and the Sholay duo took the game. As the match progressed from here on, there were some good hard hits, as both the teams are known to be aggressive. Both Subhash and Saurav are aggressive and agile players at the net. There were a few rallies in between which the ball did not bounce, it was a racquet to racquet rally. Moreover a ball hit to Saurav or Subhash would end the point then and there itself. As both of them got their placements right and hit back hard. But it seemed the Sholay boys had the edge as they went on to lead the first set 2-1 but soon enough our Achilles came to form and Venkat-Saurav were leading 3-2. At 4-4 in the first set, Venkat-Saurav were able to break through Viru-Subhash and took the set 6-4. From then on there was no looking back for them as Venkat-Saurav took 5 games in a row to take a convincing lead in the 2nd set 5-0. Subhash-Viru gave a last ditch attempt and took one game but that was just not enough. A Heartiest Congratulations to the winning team for they make it to the finals of the tourney ........... sahi hai bhidu..
Final Result: Venkat-Saurav beat Subhash-Viru: 6-4,6-1
Today's Upcoming Action:
The Indian inspiration needs to work big time today as Vijay faces the Mighty Achilles, Saurav. Again, 2 contrasting styles of play, Saurav, aggressive, fast and agile and Vijay Mr.Slow but consistent. In all his singles games till now, Saurav has the distinction of not losing more than 2 games per match. Will Vijay be able to break this jinx, will he be able to hit the Achilles heel. Or atleast can he put up a respectable fight like 'Hector', be there at 6pm to witness this amazing encounter.
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
SORRY!!!
I know these Tennis tournament updates have been killing everyone. But this tournament is talk of the month here! So please bear with me. Plus I am winning!, so its but obvious that I am excited about it :)
Yes, me and Surav won todays semi-final encounter against top seeds Subhash and Viru. So we are all set to play the finals on coming Wednesday. Wish us luck :)
Lots of exciting things are actually happening. As the summer is coming to an end, we are trying to make the most of it. That explains our roaming out almost each weekend, playing tennis almost daily. And to add to all this, I am very busy work-wise too. There is no free time!! I feel sleepy in office daily now, but alas I cant :(. Anyway this was a quick update from my side, hope it alleviates somebit of your anger :)
Almost forgot: I will be joining the DCX softball team for my Director. This too promises to be a lot of fun. Also joined ASHA Detroit, but no contribution timewise as of now. Hoping to get a little free before I plunge into some work for others for a change ;-). Obviously the inspiration for this is Kaddu. And for tennis its Kutty. Hoping to learn enough to give him a good fight once I am back in Swades!!
Yes, me and Surav won todays semi-final encounter against top seeds Subhash and Viru. So we are all set to play the finals on coming Wednesday. Wish us luck :)
Lots of exciting things are actually happening. As the summer is coming to an end, we are trying to make the most of it. That explains our roaming out almost each weekend, playing tennis almost daily. And to add to all this, I am very busy work-wise too. There is no free time!! I feel sleepy in office daily now, but alas I cant :(. Anyway this was a quick update from my side, hope it alleviates somebit of your anger :)
Almost forgot: I will be joining the DCX softball team for my Director. This too promises to be a lot of fun. Also joined ASHA Detroit, but no contribution timewise as of now. Hoping to get a little free before I plunge into some work for others for a change ;-). Obviously the inspiration for this is Kaddu. And for tennis its Kutty. Hoping to learn enough to give him a good fight once I am back in Swades!!
Tennis Tournament - Day 16
Today we start with the 'Mortal Combat' (semifinals) of our tourney. A win here, takes you, just a step away from glory. But a loss here and well I don't think we have a 3rd prize, so you bite the dust. But before we move on here is a small update on the last day of Mahasangraam. The Day 14 of the tourney saw quite a few upsets.
Prashanth vs Subhash:
Prashanth and Subhash continued their game with 1 set each and the 0-0 in the third set. The first six games saw both the players losing their serve and now it was just a matter of who can keep one of his service and get set and the match. Subhash did so, atleast the first step. He kept his serve in the 7th game and took a 4-3 lead but Prashanth was equally determined. he kept his own serve and took the 8th game to make the set 4-4. The points and the games were won by very small margins and after hard fought rallies. It seemed as if this set would take an eternity. Just after 8 games, the set had taken almost an hour. Soon our guys went into a service breaking mode and took the scores to 5-5, It was here that the cool headed Prashanth started scoring. He broke Subhash, took a 6-5 lead and was serving for the match. Subhash gave him some nasty returns and got a few points, but in a game where consistency, stamina and mental fortitude matter, Prashanth had the edge. He got only one match point and did not err in taking it.
Final scoresheet: Prashanth beat Subhash: 3-6,6-3,7-5
Krishna vs Suchit:
In yet another exciting encounter of the day, it was Krishna Beri who got the better of Suchit in a 3 - setter. The highlight of this match was that all the 3 sets took place on the same day. It was an excruciating test of stamina as the 2 battled all the way. It was Krishna took the first set 6-4 only to lose the 2nd one 2-6. Suchit suddenly improved his game. He got his backhand going and was dominating the game. But the test of stamina got better of him, he could not hold on and Krishna took the 3rd set 6-4 to win the match.
Final scoresheet: Krishna beat Suchit: 6-4,2-6,6-4
Vijay vs Shashwath:
The stylish but struggling Vijay finally beat Shashwath. With the scores tied at a one set each, the match started with Vijay leading 3-1 in the third set. Shashwath fought hard but ended up making too many mistakes at crucial points. Nonetheless he still took 4 games in this set, but boss you gotto win 6 games atleast to win a set. It seems the Indian inspiration working ...... enna Vijay????
Final scoresheet: Vijay beat Shashwath: 6-4,4--6,6-4
Today's Upcoming Action:
The Sholay duo of Jay(Subhash)-Viru face the Achilles and his Myrmidon (Saurav-Venkat) in the first one of our Mortal Combat. Both of these are aggressive teams and have won convincingly against their opponents in the previous rounds. They should be equally matched and the encounter should be worth watching. The match starts at 6pm today taking into consideration the early sunsets these days. Be there to cheer our guys, as they sweat it out in the heat today, so what does our weather man have to say.
Prashanth vs Subhash:
Prashanth and Subhash continued their game with 1 set each and the 0-0 in the third set. The first six games saw both the players losing their serve and now it was just a matter of who can keep one of his service and get set and the match. Subhash did so, atleast the first step. He kept his serve in the 7th game and took a 4-3 lead but Prashanth was equally determined. he kept his own serve and took the 8th game to make the set 4-4. The points and the games were won by very small margins and after hard fought rallies. It seemed as if this set would take an eternity. Just after 8 games, the set had taken almost an hour. Soon our guys went into a service breaking mode and took the scores to 5-5, It was here that the cool headed Prashanth started scoring. He broke Subhash, took a 6-5 lead and was serving for the match. Subhash gave him some nasty returns and got a few points, but in a game where consistency, stamina and mental fortitude matter, Prashanth had the edge. He got only one match point and did not err in taking it.
Final scoresheet: Prashanth beat Subhash: 3-6,6-3,7-5
Krishna vs Suchit:
In yet another exciting encounter of the day, it was Krishna Beri who got the better of Suchit in a 3 - setter. The highlight of this match was that all the 3 sets took place on the same day. It was an excruciating test of stamina as the 2 battled all the way. It was Krishna took the first set 6-4 only to lose the 2nd one 2-6. Suchit suddenly improved his game. He got his backhand going and was dominating the game. But the test of stamina got better of him, he could not hold on and Krishna took the 3rd set 6-4 to win the match.
Final scoresheet: Krishna beat Suchit: 6-4,2-6,6-4
Vijay vs Shashwath:
The stylish but struggling Vijay finally beat Shashwath. With the scores tied at a one set each, the match started with Vijay leading 3-1 in the third set. Shashwath fought hard but ended up making too many mistakes at crucial points. Nonetheless he still took 4 games in this set, but boss you gotto win 6 games atleast to win a set. It seems the Indian inspiration working ...... enna Vijay????
Final scoresheet: Vijay beat Shashwath: 6-4,4--6,6-4
Today's Upcoming Action:
The Sholay duo of Jay(Subhash)-Viru face the Achilles and his Myrmidon (Saurav-Venkat) in the first one of our Mortal Combat. Both of these are aggressive teams and have won convincingly against their opponents in the previous rounds. They should be equally matched and the encounter should be worth watching. The match starts at 6pm today taking into consideration the early sunsets these days. Be there to cheer our guys, as they sweat it out in the heat today, so what does our weather man have to say.
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