Games They Play.

It has happened before, it has happened now and it will happen always - the great Indian tamasha of hate politics engulfing the true essence of our nation. Time and again the great politicians of our country have let the country and its people to unbelievable lows. The happenings in the last few weeks in Mumbai ( can i say BOMBAY ? or will i be beaten up ? ) and the last few months of mindless violence in Andhra Pradesh ( especially Hyderabad) are fresh evidences of the shamelessness of our so-called-leaders. It is such a pity that the greatest democracy in the world is having to fight battles with its neighbors and within itself. A nation that was the baton wielder of Peace and love is reeling under extremely stupid politics of hate and vandalism.

My city ( Hyderabad) has been subjected to some rather disgusting last few months. The extremely lively city is virtually under extreme stress. A city that was rated as the biggest emerging city in all areas is now facing sever loss of revenue, property and some lives too. And all this at the cost of the "demand" for a separate state. The last few months have been ridiculous - The city and state at large has been extremely volatile and sensitive. Bandhs have been the norm of the day and violence has reached its peak. The so-called-students have done away with books, diminished the sanctity of a respected university in India and ripped away the dignity associated with being a Student. All this has been done on the "call" from a certain political party which is demanding a separate state for telangana. The pearl city of India is now at the peril of becoming the most troubled city. Buses being burnt, people being beaten up, schools and colleges being closed, mindless display of hooliganism have replaced the calm and lively atmosphere of the city. The most ironic part of all this hoopla is that the areas being subjected to these extremism are the areas that are branded as less "developed". I wonder if these acts of violence will incite any new investments and lead to any development. I am not commenting on the pros and cons of forming a separate state for it should be decided by the people who are entrusted with the duties to do so - after a careful consideration. What i am irked about is the manner in which these agitations are carried out. For a state to form and function, the most important thing to have is "people" , the aam aadmi. This aam aadmi is being subjected to every day ambiguity about that day's position, the common man is forced to stop going to work or is being beaten up by goons each day. What scares me the most is the fanaticism in the youth today. I wonder if these students would be rescued by the political parties who patronize them, if they fail in the examinations and if the formation of new state would benefit them even an iota if they do not have the mandatory knowledge to take up any job? Would the so called well wishers of the students come to their rescue if the university debars them from attending the exams? worser still, would these politicians ever come to see these students once they win the election? There have been cases of students committing suicides for separate state. Has any one thought about the poor parents of these kids who killed themselves while their parents were living lesser lives to give every opportunity to their progeny? Would a separate state or anything else get back these parents their lost child? What in the world can alleviate the angst of a father who saw his son being burnt to death? What has the average bus driver done to bear the brunt of some mindless people. Who has given these thoughtless weeds a right to cripple the normalcy of the state - there by pushing the state into irrecoverable loss in already inflated times? What satisfaction would they get in seeing a city of four crore living in distress?

If i am worried about my place, my friends in neighboring state are not less disturbed. The senseless sena has spilled its venom yet again. This time again on a soft target - a rather extremely famous one at that. I would not go into detail for its already a cover page story now. What amazes me is the utter shamelessness of these self proclaimed protectors of marathi manoos. There was a show on NDTV last sunday that had who's who of cinema world and the shiv sena spokesman -Rahul something ( never cared to remember his last name. I remembered the first name because there was rahul "bose" the actor in the same show). The moment this representative of uddhav"ji" thackerey said that the sena reacted on behalf of the "nations" and "mumbaikar's" sentiments, there was a huge roar by the audience. A proof that sena is not a mouthpiece of the junta but only for the vote bank politics of Mumbai. There has been numerous such instances, but as usual our netas are born shameless - and have learnt to live in denial. I am surprised why do they not raise their concern over the bad infrastructure in Mumbai, the farmer suicides in Maharashtra or the acute water scarcity. What happens to voracious sena leadership when the need to stand up and act comes? It is such a shame that we are still fighting amongst ourselves when we need to fight bigger wars outside.

So who is it that is to blame ? The politicians? No obviously not. Infact they are the most deserving people to be appreciated. They are the only one's doing their job just fine. They are politicians - not leaders. And the only thing they have to do is to take sides, cash votes and create turmoil. Looking at the current report, it is only they who come out with flying colours. They have successfully created divide amongst two sections of society, two regions of a state and the people at large. These politicians sell their ideas and silly reasons to people who call themselves "educated" with such aplomb that could put the best of salesperson to shame! they could sell dreams to the most staunch pessimist ( If they ever want to make a career switch, advertising and sales are the best choices). The stupid junta who are supposed to go to work each day, study hard each day by into all that gibberish and participate in all this circus. Those who are jailed and lathi charged are these activists and not those "powerful" netas. While those activists are beaten to pulp by the police, i am sure the leaders are having premium drinks and happy sleep. It is the innocent people going to work suffering and the misguided youth's lives being ruined. The gullible young India today is lured into the crooked games they play!

It is such a disgrace when the world is talking green earth, development and world without boundaries - and we are drawing lines amongst us and killing ourselves. In times where slowing down is breaking down, we are stalling our progress for some unimportant reasons. If at all we dream to be the super power in the years to come, it is this attitude we need to change. If not, forget 2020, its not going to happen even in 202020 !!

Mumbai has woken up from slumber.. I pray Hyderabad does. I wish INDIA does !! May better sense prevail.

P.S : Few hours back there was a bombing in Pune. Two years after mumbai its Pune now. It can be any city tommorow. How will we stop them if we fight ourselves. May the souls of people who lost their lives in that incident rest in peace. I hope they dont make this another political game.

Peace

rammy

A failed script

There are some movies that are bad. They do not put you off for you would already know what to expect when you go into watch. Some others turn out to be marvelous when you do not expect anything out of them. There is a third category of films - Those that have a marvelous potential but falter right from the start. "Striker" is one such film. The promos of the film raised enormous curiosity and the trailer was extremely appealing but the end product was far from anything expected.

Set in the ghettos of erstwhile Bombay, the movie talks about the life of a kid Surya who dreams of a good life. The dream of happy life makes him reach out to seemingly greener pastures (Dubai) which culminates abruptly due to the "agents" scam. Left with little choice and redeeming the lost money the young man uses his extraordinary carrom skills to make a high living. All is well until he loses gold ornaments ranging into lakhs which is to be delivered to a merchant. his friend Zaid introduces him to a local goon who is into gambling and betting business. Though unwilling at the outset, Surya realizes the Game life is playing with him and decides to take it on with a striker in hand - In the process getting Surya to be involved with gangs, goons and police. The result of which Surya departs from his family.

Striker impresses in its set up, feel and originality. First timer Chandan Arora captures the ghettos in most believable way, making the city a character itself. The camera work and the dialogues have authenticity and are believable. The director has done an commendable job in sketching characters that are appealing and create an instant connect with the audience. The free spirited Zaid (Ankur Vikal ) lights up the screen with his infectious enthusiasm. Ankur delivers a superb performance as a man full of hopes. The friendship between Surya and Zaid is also sketched perfectly. The rest of the cast is also aptly chosen. Surya's sister played by Vidya Malvade, the scar faced goon played by Aditya Pancholi or even the elder brother played by Anoop Soni deliver believeable performance . Siddharth gives blood and flesh to the character Surya with his splendid performance. He is good with his choclate boy charm and fantastic during the emotional scenes as well. He makes us believe in Surya's desire for success.

What's really disappointing is the uncooked script of the movie. The side track of communal riots in mumbai is under developed. Both the love tracks of the protagonist are either unwanted or badly developed. Nicolette Bird looks pretty in the short role but is wasted. The south indian actress Padmapriya is refreshingly beautiful - but she could have chosen a better role to make a debut in bollywood. Singularly taken by each character, the movie might make a statement, but film fails to make to create any impression as a whole product. The film never has a moment that hits you. With a theme of gambling, underworld and a character such as Surya, you would expect an intriguing tale. But you would be utterly disappointed with the tame screenplay. There is hardly any scene that you would cling to your seats and marvel at it. The movie though two and a half hours, feels like a soap opera. The soundtrack of the movie ( being created by six music directors ) is better heard alone. The song "Bombay Bombay" is not even there in the movie. The song " Cham Cham" sung by sonu nigam is wonderful when you hear it alone, but it does not feel the same when you watch it on the screen.

It might be unfair for a first timer to be measured on a tough yardstick, but it is disappointing to see a movie with a great potential being robbed of its charm due to an undernourished script. A movie that could have been a Vishal Bharadwaj material falls flat on the face midway (or probably even before it) just because fails to captivate the audience.

If there is anything that you'd ever take away from the movie, it would have to be Ankur Vikal's exceptional portrayal as Zaid. Siddharth creates an impression too. Otherwise "Striker" fails to strike a chord.

Cheers

rammy

Sweet Sixty!!

It is that day of the year again. The day we celebrate the spirit of our country. The day we remember those who have made our country what it is today. The day we celebrate being INDIANS! The day we all sing our lungs out and relish the feeling of being the worlds largest republic. It is the day that the grand fathers, the fathers and the sons sit together and watch the ceremonies - each generation mesmerized and amazed at the diversity of our country. Each of them chuckling and grinning like children :) . The defense contingents, the state tablos , children displaying their dancing skills, and the military arms and ammunition display ( My Favorite! ) all of them scintillating as ever. Each of them making a subtle statement, that Indian republic is no less than any country in the world! And well, Its been sixty years! sixty long years. From being a third world country to being the most emerging country. From a nation deprived of development to a nation who is now a pioneer of technological advancement. It has been a great journey, one where with innumerable road blocks. With issues that seemed to break our progress sometimes and our hearts some other times - Yet we prevailed and how! We waded the high tides and cruised along the still waters.

Every decade has had its moments. Each generation has contributed immensely to the progress we have achieved. It is this day that we look upon our preceding generations and thank them for passing us the legacy that is so rich and worthy. It is also the day that we solemnly decide that we will pass on the baton to our next ones with India in better shape and richer legacy.

It is up to us that we let our young one's grow in a country that is devoid of discrimination in any form. It is upon is that we give them fresh air to breath and a healthy way of life to lead. It is up to us that we show them development and tradition are not foes and that they can walk hand in hand . It is time that we acknowledge the sacrifices made by our ancestors and bow our heads in respect. No flashy display of pseudo patriotism, no fanaticism and no cynicism. It is now time to listen to all suggestions ,take the best ones and built a country that grows from develop"ing" to being Developed. The time is now that all these years of hard work finally pays off. The seeds of sacrifice should now bear fruits of holistic prosperity.

The journey was not easy. The path was tough and dodgy. We never knew how far or quick we'd get to the destination when we set out. But the spirit of our people, passion to achieve the impossible and the sheer love for our country made it possible. As the years passed, the approach changed. The outlook differed, but the inherent purpose remained the same . If bowing to the anthem was the show of patriotism then, Wearing the colors on sleeves and screaming away to glory is now - Methods changed but essence remained same . It now time that we stop comparing who did what , but focus on the road ahead and see that by the time our little ones are ready to take the baton, we give them India that we dreamt for them !

Its well and try sweet sixty for her... Or in our lingo - Sexy Sixty!!! It may well be!! .. coz being Indian is Sexy!! .... I wish we become better and sexier !!

Cheers

rammy

Attempt at hindi

Hey Folks, I have made an attempt to write in Hindi. I hope you like it

अजीब होते है येह आँसू, खुशी में आतें है और दुख में भी बहतें हैं येह आँसू.

पास आने पे आतें है और किसी के बिछड़ने पर भी आतें है येह आँसू .

प्यार से छू ले दिल हर उस अंदाज़ के बदले में आतें है आँसू,

दिल के पैमाने में है छुपे हुए है ये आँसू.

अपनों को देख हुई खुशी की निशानी है येह आँसू,

हर इंतेहाँ की घड़ी में टपकते है यह आँसू,

मोहब्बत के इज़हार करने पर निकलतें है आँसू.

हर खुशी में, हर दुख में, ज़िंदगी के हर मोड़ पे,

ज़िंदगी कें हर यादगार घड़ी में,

चाहे कोई हो ना हो, साथ होतें है ये आँसू.

फिर भी ना जाने क्यूँ हमे ना भायें ये आँसू.

The best part of the year!!

It’s finally here! Its December, it’s the time of joy and celebration!! It’s Christmas!!! The time when we thank for a great year we had and wish for even great year ahead!! Cookies, gifts and the lovely carols… it’s all lovely!! But what is the best part of this season?? For me... it’s always been Santa and the Gifts!! Yes, the plump, jolly, white-bearded loveable old man giving gifts to the kids!! Writing the wish list, putting it under the pillow and hoping that Santa picks it up and showers all of those lovely gifts on the Christmas day!! God Santa must be one Richie rich to get all those gifts (thank god grownups don’t write wish lists!! Else Santa would have to take huge loan to fulfill all of it!! ) .

And in week from now... it’s going to be a new year!! Another year to live our lives, another chance to be what we want to be, another great gift from God!! Brand NEW 365 days!! Another reason to celebrate life!! Come 31st and we all will be ready to embrace the New Year and bid good bye to 2009!! The year we lived out - the year we got it all. It’s been quite a year to say. From acute economical depression to “unexpected” 8% growth, we’ve seen it all. We had Rahman and Rasool Pookutty charming the world at one end and Leander Paes making us proud at the other end! We had Sachin smashing records after records and Vishwanathan Anand walking away to glory!! From average playing team to the top cricket team, we have seen success in all fields. India has grown from being a ‘Slumdog’ to being a “Millionaire”! WE are the Biggest Emerging markets of the world! When Uncle Sam (read US of A!) was hitting up bad and leaking up mad, we were right there steady and trotting just fine. I don’t say we never had any hiccups. But then who doesn’t have!! The greatest thing is that we’ve grown from what we were, learnt from what we’ve done wrong.

Personally, it’s been a terrific year!! From the Big Satyam Fiasco in January to a great appraisal in December, life has come a full circle. My first abroad trip and great time at work, finding some amazing friends at work - it has been massive fun!! One year of blogging (yes the first post has been on Oct 2008!) and some amazing Blog friends. I have been lucky to read some amazing blogs and fortunate to have some great comments for mine!! I’ve met some wonderful people made some amazing friends. What a year it has been! The love of friends and family has made me happy all through. Nieces and nephews being born and grand mom leaving for eternal peace, I’ve been through sorrow and bliss. I could not have asked for anything more!! What a year it has been!!! Thanks to all of you who’ve kept reading my posts and inspired me with some amazing posts of yours. Kudos to A.S for following her dream and making it - God Bless you my dear! Congrats to Diva for flying away to London. !! I hope that all of you had the best time of your life and wish you have even better in the coming year!!

Ring Out the Old,

Usher in the NEW,

See the world in a new way,

Live your life in a greater way,

Laugh and play all the way,

I wish you get whatever you say!!

I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Fantastic NEW YEAR!! GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!

Cheers
Rammy

Of Cold country, beautiful people and great fun!

Helu people!! Its been a while since i was out of the Blog world. and all for right reasons... I was having the time of my life!! I was at one of the happiest countries of the world - Denmark (Copenhagen).
So heres an account of my experience during my stay at Copenhagen. Beware though, it can be long and boring. The author is not responsible for your headache!!

It was that time of the year when i was planning about the probable places to visit for winter with my friends. November - December is generally the time i take a break from my mundane work and go out to a small trip with my friends. I thought this will be the same until my Manager informed me that i would be travelling to Copenhagen for a month on a project purpose. Having worked my back side off for two and half years this came to me as a happy surprise! My first travel abroad full paid by the company .. WOW!! I thought!!

The hoopla at home (arrey, beta pehli baar vilayat jaa rahan hai!! itna to hoga hi :P ) and the mad shopping spree accompanied by the viral fever gave me panic attacks!! I kept wondering if i could actually make it to the airport with all the fever and cough ( With all the h1n1 thing u never know !! ). But my dear mom took the best care and made me fit enough to travel. SO... there i was.. on the wee hours of November 2 , 2009 . On board The Lufthansa flight to Copenhagen - All set to rule the next few weeks of my life.

Copenhagen is a small, cozy and an amazing city. My first reaction coming out of the airport was a WOW !! They had Mercedes Taxis - I was awestruck!! I had to wait for 3 hours at the airport as i had to be picked up by a friend who was stuck at office. That gave me a great chance to see the entire Copenhagen airport.. So literally my city tour started with the tour around the airport, checking out all the outlets in the lobby, troubling the Information Helpdesk guys with tons of queries!

The city is a character in itself. Being a part of Europe it comes as no surprise to see the royal buildings and the aristocratic approach to life. The most intriguing part is the seamless amalgamation of heritage with the advanced world of today. One can see the the perfect synergy between old and the new. On one side you have the 18th century royal queens palace and there is the state of art Opera house a man made marvel standing right opposite to it. If you have the new age multi brand malls stretching across lanes, you also find the oldest amusement park TIVOLI right in the vicinity. Dont be amused if you see a sweet violin melody playing in the corner of the walking street and at the turn of the lane you suddenly encounter a loud metal music. They love to mix and match! Talk about having best of both the worlds... the Danes are great in that.


Copenhagen winters though are a little tricky, the sun never rises and it gets dark by 3 in the afternoon. There is wind and sometimes rain with the biting cold. But being a lover of cold weather i was living my life under sunless times!! The upside is that you dont feel overworked and tired. The downside though is at times it gets a little depressing with all the gloom and darkness around. But nevertheless, Its a great experience in itself. If you have the right clothes and good company, the cold will be a bliss too :) . The pace of life is as gentle as the people there. Nice and easy - you would never have to fret about anything. Denmark is said to be the happiest country in the world and you can see that there. You always see smiles around you. Whether or not you know the person, you get a warm smile when you see each other. Ask for help and you are sure to get clear, precise and perfect advice. The people there are such warm that i felt at home right from the day one at work.

Copenhagen has something to offer to everyone. If you are a history freak, this is heaven for you. Places like the national museum, Amalienborg Palace, Rosenborg Castle and Kronborg Castle can keep you mesmerized with their amazing history. Shopping seems a never ending process with Huge malls spread across the walking street. If you are a beer lover carlsberg brewery is a must visit! If you are a random traveler like me, you can walk almost half the city with ease!! trust me its fun!! If you are an amusement park goer, you have a history here.. The tivoli park is the oldest amusement park in the history of mankind ! ( they say, Walt Disney built Disneyland after visiting this ).

If you think its all work and no play there, you are terribly mistaken. Works starts at 8.30 in the morning Sharp and ontime everytime. Come hell down or heaven down there is no late turn in to work and the output is flawless. The concept of quality over quantity is highly valued there ( something that we should start believing too). Family is always the first and most important priority. In a world where competition is the only Buzz word, it was refreshing to see "collaboration" in full force there. Understanding each other abilities, accepting each others limits and achieving a common goal is the keyword there ( Again something we can learn, instead for the blame game we play).

The city is so lovely for one most important reason. It has least pollution levels.. all thanks to awareness about climate change and the increased cycling that people have taken up. It is wonderful to see each citizen trying their own bit to contribute to the common cause.

The greatest learning that i had from this trip was that it does not need rocket science to keep yourself and others happy!! All we need is an intent and effort!!

All in all .. they do not call it the HAPPIEST COUNTRY for no reason!! They say " Jab bhagvaan deta hai to cheppar phaad ke deta hai!". I never believed it till it happened to me. Damn!! i had the best time ever!!

P.S : I know i have not put up the pics like the coorg trip. I have put'em up in FB and am trying to post them on orkut too. So all of you can see them on FB. The Picasa though seems not liking the photos.. i cannot upload them!! will see if i can post some here ( there are too many to select from!).

All is all ... The time of my life!!

cheers!
rammy