Sometime back I had written a post about the experience of trying to find a match for arranged marriage....
I now am posting the first conversation of the series..... Have Fun!
Newspaper matrimonial ads are one of the many ways used to search for a groom!
So in the process of scanning the paper, my parents came across 'an eligible prospect'. The ad carried a contact number which was promptly dialed.
After the initial introductions, my father conveyed a brief about our family. The person on the other end of the phone was the father of the prospective groom who gave my father a patient hearing and then started off with his idea/list/demands of a/from the prospective bride.
As per him, the prospective bride should take care of the family, be an able manager at home, ensure that there is no discord in the house and the supplies to home are taken care of in addition to keeping the house clean & decorated (Phew!!!). He further went on to add that both he & his son work and need to have proper breakfast before they leave for their respective work place, a packed lunch is a must and that the wife of his son should be home before they are back from work and ensure that fresh & hot dinner is served. In short he was looking for a dotting wife for his son. He also added that in case the girl wants to work post marriage she can do so if she can find time after fulfilling the above mentioned responsibilities!
Nothing wrong in this & appreciate his concern for his son.
But, lets now come to the ad he had placed.
The ad read that they are looking for a well educated, professionally qualified, preferably MBA girl for their son!
So the crux is that they basically wanted a professionally qualified DIL but can work only after finishing the ghar ka kaam!
My father thanked him for his 'frank' & 'to the point' description of the prospective bride and disconnected the call.
I have no clue why such an ad was placed when the requirement was so different. Do they think that a professionally qualified girl can only juggle & manage the various 'responsibilities' listed or they think that a girls ultimate desire is to get married & everything else can then be put on a back burner! I would love to have an insight into their thinking and know their point of view too.
I am not averse to the idea of a non working wife but there is a time for everything. Yes I like my independence but at the same time if there is a strong reason which demands that I need to not work for sometime I am ok with it. But not for the heck of it. I have worked equally hard if not more to be where I am today and I am not willing to give it up just like that!
Jul 3, 2009
Jun 30, 2009
I am smiling....
I am happy.... Actually very happy! Let me not jump the gun and start from where it restarted!
Many people would be euphoric to have touched base with friends from past courtesy social networking sites. I also belong to the same group. Well, I have made friends & lost touch with lots of people over the years, some acquaintances and few good friends.
With Dad's postings this cycle would get repeated every time. In fact if I think back about all the stations Dad got posted to, I could list out atleast 3 friends in each station who could be called close friends. But there as some people who touch few cords in your heart and become too precious. I too met people who meant a lot to me & was lucky that the feeling was reciprocated.
The social networking sites helped me get back in touch with many of my friends. But, among many there was this one person I was desperately looking for and it seemed that she had vanished into thin air. I tried all I could to find her but invain.
One fine day , a mail drops in my mail box which starts with, 'xyz (a name similar to her's) has contacted you....'. At that moment I was preoccupied and was about to leave office for a prefixed meeting. It just didn't strike me that it could be her so instead of probing further I left for the meeting and my day to day work. I came back to office late in the evening and while checking new mails reread the message and just out of curiosity opened my account.....
My colleague came over and asked if all was ok.!!.. I could not believe my eyes for few minutes. The friend I was searching had found me!
Her message started with a 'remember me' line.!! I laughed reading it & thought, 'only if she knew.........' This was 6 months back and we are back in touch & how!
This happened because of the social networking site. But for it I don't think I would have ever managed to find her! Welcome back in my life......................
Many people would be euphoric to have touched base with friends from past courtesy social networking sites. I also belong to the same group. Well, I have made friends & lost touch with lots of people over the years, some acquaintances and few good friends.
With Dad's postings this cycle would get repeated every time. In fact if I think back about all the stations Dad got posted to, I could list out atleast 3 friends in each station who could be called close friends. But there as some people who touch few cords in your heart and become too precious. I too met people who meant a lot to me & was lucky that the feeling was reciprocated.
The social networking sites helped me get back in touch with many of my friends. But, among many there was this one person I was desperately looking for and it seemed that she had vanished into thin air. I tried all I could to find her but invain.
One fine day , a mail drops in my mail box which starts with, 'xyz (a name similar to her's) has contacted you....'. At that moment I was preoccupied and was about to leave office for a prefixed meeting. It just didn't strike me that it could be her so instead of probing further I left for the meeting and my day to day work. I came back to office late in the evening and while checking new mails reread the message and just out of curiosity opened my account.....
My colleague came over and asked if all was ok.!!.. I could not believe my eyes for few minutes. The friend I was searching had found me!
Her message started with a 'remember me' line.!! I laughed reading it & thought, 'only if she knew.........' This was 6 months back and we are back in touch & how!
This happened because of the social networking site. But for it I don't think I would have ever managed to find her! Welcome back in my life......................
Jun 2, 2009
One of my friend forwarded this to me & said that this is being quoted from a group on facebook called fauji kids.... I loved the points & went ahead & immidiately joined the group.....
I have added my own comments in bracket next to the points
YOU KNOW YOU ARE A PURE BREED FAUJI KID IF:
1 You were born in a Military Hospital... {yeah yeah yeah.... It was MH, Danapur}
2 Half your toddler years were spent being looked after by Bhaiyas ( no xplanation here) {Differ here..It was my mom.. the bhaiya was there as a household help}
3 You went to school either on Bhaiya's cycle or in a Shaktiman {Remember the chase for the jaali ke paas wali seat}
4 You know what a shaktiman is. ( No! it isnt the TV serial about half man and half machine starring AB lookalike) {hahahaha}
5 Jeeps & Jongas dont excite you - they were your regular mode of transport! {Yep was brought home from the MH in one!}
6 The only alternative to the Central School was the Army School. {& the rivalry between the schools}
7 You always called Kendriya Vidyalaya Central School. Gosh even today that sounds better! {hehehehe}
8 Your entire family could survive in one room temporary quarters with 25 trunks, wooden crates, the dog, the bedroll and two bhaiyas flitting around. {The dog is the only thing missing from our days..... rest remains the same!}
9 The smell of Brasso & shoe polish was regular staple. {The daily dose.... morning for shoe polish & evening ie late evening for Brasso}
10 Mess was not what you created in your room, it was where you went every Friday for the free "english" movie. {or for the occasional parties where kids were allowed.. not to forget sports! Badminton anyone...}
11 The "English Movie" was very often a western and you couldnt follow a word! Sometimes you just went for the samosas and the local drink that they insisted was Cola.{Not just english even HIndi.. I remember, every wednesday the movie playing used to be free movie!}
12 At the end of the month your dad had to pay for many pink slips showing how many samosas and local drinks that they insisted was Cola you had consumed. They never missed any!!! {Add to that peanuts, potato chips & few more cold drinks courtsey the sports/swim time}
13 You attended many May Queen Balls before you knew what Miss India was.{This used to be fun}
14 Your mother regularly got dressed, perfumed and dissappeared for the Ladies Club. {& the kids had some unattended masti time..... skiding on cycle..rolling in mud included!}
15 You knew towns like Mhow, Wellington, Deolali and Bhuj..{ ::))))}
16 You werent a millionaire but hey you had Swimming, Horse Riding, Squash, Tennis and Golf!!{You bet}
17 You thought the main reason to have a Golf Course was to have a Holi Bash. {The Mess lawns were also used for it sometimes...}
18 You can still take one quick look at the epaulets and figure out the rank. {Yeah right!}
19 You discussed wednesday's Chitrahaar in the Shaktiman. {It used to be fun & full of excitement...}
20 You can still recall the special & particular smell of the CSD canteen! A special prize for the correct concoction - mine is - it was a mix of Hamam Soap, Ponds Dreamflower Talc & Surf i think. In some corners it had overtures of Brooke Bond red Label as well. {You bet}
21 Your vacations were a package deal consisting of D-forms, Sharma Uncle Ka jonga and Arty/signal/EME Mess ka kamra(ie any mess would do). {hahahaha}
I have added my own comments in bracket next to the points
YOU KNOW YOU ARE A PURE BREED FAUJI KID IF:
1 You were born in a Military Hospital... {yeah yeah yeah.... It was MH, Danapur}
2 Half your toddler years were spent being looked after by Bhaiyas ( no xplanation here) {Differ here..It was my mom.. the bhaiya was there as a household help}
3 You went to school either on Bhaiya's cycle or in a Shaktiman {Remember the chase for the jaali ke paas wali seat}
4 You know what a shaktiman is. ( No! it isnt the TV serial about half man and half machine starring AB lookalike) {hahahaha}
5 Jeeps & Jongas dont excite you - they were your regular mode of transport! {Yep was brought home from the MH in one!}
6 The only alternative to the Central School was the Army School. {& the rivalry between the schools}
7 You always called Kendriya Vidyalaya Central School. Gosh even today that sounds better! {hehehehe}
8 Your entire family could survive in one room temporary quarters with 25 trunks, wooden crates, the dog, the bedroll and two bhaiyas flitting around. {The dog is the only thing missing from our days..... rest remains the same!}
9 The smell of Brasso & shoe polish was regular staple. {The daily dose.... morning for shoe polish & evening ie late evening for Brasso}
10 Mess was not what you created in your room, it was where you went every Friday for the free "english" movie. {or for the occasional parties where kids were allowed.. not to forget sports! Badminton anyone...}
11 The "English Movie" was very often a western and you couldnt follow a word! Sometimes you just went for the samosas and the local drink that they insisted was Cola.{Not just english even HIndi.. I remember, every wednesday the movie playing used to be free movie!}
12 At the end of the month your dad had to pay for many pink slips showing how many samosas and local drinks that they insisted was Cola you had consumed. They never missed any!!! {Add to that peanuts, potato chips & few more cold drinks courtsey the sports/swim time}
13 You attended many May Queen Balls before you knew what Miss India was.{This used to be fun}
14 Your mother regularly got dressed, perfumed and dissappeared for the Ladies Club. {& the kids had some unattended masti time..... skiding on cycle..rolling in mud included!}
15 You knew towns like Mhow, Wellington, Deolali and Bhuj..{ ::))))}
16 You werent a millionaire but hey you had Swimming, Horse Riding, Squash, Tennis and Golf!!{You bet}
17 You thought the main reason to have a Golf Course was to have a Holi Bash. {The Mess lawns were also used for it sometimes...}
18 You can still take one quick look at the epaulets and figure out the rank. {Yeah right!}
19 You discussed wednesday's Chitrahaar in the Shaktiman. {It used to be fun & full of excitement...}
20 You can still recall the special & particular smell of the CSD canteen! A special prize for the correct concoction - mine is - it was a mix of Hamam Soap, Ponds Dreamflower Talc & Surf i think. In some corners it had overtures of Brooke Bond red Label as well. {You bet}
21 Your vacations were a package deal consisting of D-forms, Sharma Uncle Ka jonga and Arty/signal/EME Mess ka kamra(ie any mess would do). {hahahaha}
May 22, 2009
Conversations
Trying to get married can be a lengthy and tiresome process.... Well my experience says so....
I being an 'adarsh' daughter, is hoping for an arranged marriage. So my parents are busy doing there bit to find a match for me. But, for some reason or the other things have not worked out yet. In the process though I have ended up meeting few prospective matches/family or heard my parents speaking to few.
The conversations fall under various categories like decent, cultured, outrageous, conservative, pathetic, humorous, ridiculous & sometimes just silly.
So, I thought that I would start putting up these conversations here just for fun. The conversations which would follow in posts to come are totally authentic, real but the names of various people involved would not be discussed.
I being an 'adarsh' daughter, is hoping for an arranged marriage. So my parents are busy doing there bit to find a match for me. But, for some reason or the other things have not worked out yet. In the process though I have ended up meeting few prospective matches/family or heard my parents speaking to few.
The conversations fall under various categories like decent, cultured, outrageous, conservative, pathetic, humorous, ridiculous & sometimes just silly.
So, I thought that I would start putting up these conversations here just for fun. The conversations which would follow in posts to come are totally authentic, real but the names of various people involved would not be discussed.
Feb 25, 2009
I'm in love...............
I have fallen in love all over again....
Before I get excited..... Lets get a clearer picture.... I'm in love with music.... I had recently transfered lots of songs to my Pen drive which I play in my car.... The music collection ranges from the wonderful melodies of 50s to the soul stirring 80s to fun songs of today..... Oh my God I had forgotten so many of them n the feeling these songs leave you with.... I enjoy them everyday n my driving has become fun & the traffic does not bother me anymore...
I hope this love turns out to be an everlasting love affair............................
Before I get excited..... Lets get a clearer picture.... I'm in love with music.... I had recently transfered lots of songs to my Pen drive which I play in my car.... The music collection ranges from the wonderful melodies of 50s to the soul stirring 80s to fun songs of today..... Oh my God I had forgotten so many of them n the feeling these songs leave you with.... I enjoy them everyday n my driving has become fun & the traffic does not bother me anymore...
I hope this love turns out to be an everlasting love affair............................
Feb 23, 2009
Preaching....
Its something I am very good at. It seems to be an inborn trait that I would put forth my views when a 'situation' is presented infront of me. I tend to dissect every aspect like an earnest Medical student who tries his best to dissect the given 'speciman' from every angel & then present my views from all angels analysed....
I do that not just with people close to me but also with acquaintances.
I guess I should become a Lecturer or an Orator. A brilliant idea, I should write a book about my 'experiences', ofcourse the names would be changed to preserve the identity of the people who had seeked the 'advice'.
Seems like an interesting thought of the many thoughts I have daily in the hope that I would come up with an idea that would turn my fortunes.
Day dreaming, an interesting way to keep recession at bay atleast for a short time..... & may be just maybe......... Aaah day dreaming again...............
I do that not just with people close to me but also with acquaintances.
I guess I should become a Lecturer or an Orator. A brilliant idea, I should write a book about my 'experiences', ofcourse the names would be changed to preserve the identity of the people who had seeked the 'advice'.
Seems like an interesting thought of the many thoughts I have daily in the hope that I would come up with an idea that would turn my fortunes.
Day dreaming, an interesting way to keep recession at bay atleast for a short time..... & may be just maybe......... Aaah day dreaming again...............
Feb 19, 2009
May 30, 2008
Faux Pass
Faux Pass, a very normal thing for me to do!
1. Driving back home and in midst of a traffic jam. I was stuck at a signal for quite some time and just managed to cross it before it turned red again! In my excitement, I blew a flying kiss at the signal but a man standing near it saw it and is startled! The traffic again resumes its snail pace with the 'gentleman' instead of crossing the road, staring at me for a loooong time!
2. An article in HT long back on methods people adopt to please the boss. I had given my experience and the lady printed my name with designation with my comment. The comment was, "I sit late in office, play games online or the ones in the system. My boss thinks that I'm working hard and is happy with my 'performance'!". I bought the paper on way to office and forgot it on my desk in full view of all. My boss who used to sit in the enclosure next to my desk read it!
{PS: Please don't ask what happened after that!}
3. A close friend got married. By mistake in a party I addressed the spouse by taking the name of his arm candy! This was followed by silence as it was a sort of reunion of old friends! Don't as k how the situation was saved!
4. On way to a meeting I ended up coming back home as the road to my home and to the meeting was common till a junction. I had to reschedule the meeting!
5. I ended up discussing the details of a movie with my boss which had released just few days back, when I was supposedly on sick leave!
6. I have a habit of keeping my mobile in my hand. I was on my way back home along with a colleague and were discussing things pertaining to office and bitching about our boss. I don't know how I dialled my bosses number accidentally (his was the last number dialled) and it connected and he heard our complete conversation and disconnected once we drifted to other topics. Imagine my plight when I reached office the next day!
There are many more in my life but too embarrassing to reproduce!
1. Driving back home and in midst of a traffic jam. I was stuck at a signal for quite some time and just managed to cross it before it turned red again! In my excitement, I blew a flying kiss at the signal but a man standing near it saw it and is startled! The traffic again resumes its snail pace with the 'gentleman' instead of crossing the road, staring at me for a loooong time!
2. An article in HT long back on methods people adopt to please the boss. I had given my experience and the lady printed my name with designation with my comment. The comment was, "I sit late in office, play games online or the ones in the system. My boss thinks that I'm working hard and is happy with my 'performance'!". I bought the paper on way to office and forgot it on my desk in full view of all. My boss who used to sit in the enclosure next to my desk read it!
{PS: Please don't ask what happened after that!}
3. A close friend got married. By mistake in a party I addressed the spouse by taking the name of his arm candy! This was followed by silence as it was a sort of reunion of old friends! Don't as k how the situation was saved!
4. On way to a meeting I ended up coming back home as the road to my home and to the meeting was common till a junction. I had to reschedule the meeting!
5. I ended up discussing the details of a movie with my boss which had released just few days back, when I was supposedly on sick leave!
6. I have a habit of keeping my mobile in my hand. I was on my way back home along with a colleague and were discussing things pertaining to office and bitching about our boss. I don't know how I dialled my bosses number accidentally (his was the last number dialled) and it connected and he heard our complete conversation and disconnected once we drifted to other topics. Imagine my plight when I reached office the next day!
There are many more in my life but too embarrassing to reproduce!
Mar 19, 2008
Things That I Miss
Over the years life has taken many twists and turns! Life introduces us to new things, emotions people with every turn and some old experiences, moments, people and things get left behind.
We in our rush to live our whole life in a moment sometime just let few precious moments slip out. So I thought that I should stop for a while and atleast remember those special moments, days, weeks, things which were (and are still) dear and special to me.
. My Grandparents (They have left for heavenly abode....I miss them the most.. both sets)
. My Cycle ( The betting and racing.... Going to school on it everyday)
. Writing Letters and eagerly waiting for the postman!
. Going to Native Place for Summer Vacations.
. I am hungry... A pet dialogue of my Cousin at 2 AM. (She is no more)
. Receiving & Sending Greeting Cards on special occasions. (Also shopping for them)
. Playing Basketball (The Lay up shot)
. Late Night College Parties (The risk of being caught was so thrilling)
. Urgent Phone Calls During Exam Time (Trying to find out how much syllabus others have revised)
. Sword fights using long bamboos with my cousin on the top of the garage at my Grandfather's place (It has been ages since have been to that house... Don't feel like going there)
. School Picnics (Going out with friends was the best thing)
. Breaking out in a jig in the middle of the road (Oh I loved doing it.. esp imitating Amitabh Bachchan's dance steps)
. Stealing Jamun from a tree near School after School Hours ( I was very Notorious)
. Bossing around and dictating terms to Seniors because my Mom was their teacher (By the way I was in 6th Std n the Seniors in 11th & 12th)
. Singing as if no ones watching/listening (I am a pathetic singer)
. Performing on Popular, foot taping numbers (The preparation & working on Choreography was more fun than the actual performance)
. Laughing & Giggling for hours n Hours with no specific reason! (People used to actually think that we have gone mad)
. The Cellphone free era (and still be contactable)
. Stealing Kacha Aam from Neighbours garden and eating it with Salt & Red Chilly Powder ( That used to be yum)
I have not numbered the list as all are equally missed....... There are many more but these are the most missed...
I am sure everyone will have one such special list.
I have also prepared a list of things I want to achieve in life, guess I'm yet not ready enough mentally to share it with anyone but me.
We in our rush to live our whole life in a moment sometime just let few precious moments slip out. So I thought that I should stop for a while and atleast remember those special moments, days, weeks, things which were (and are still) dear and special to me.
. My Grandparents (They have left for heavenly abode....I miss them the most.. both sets)
. My Cycle ( The betting and racing.... Going to school on it everyday)
. Writing Letters and eagerly waiting for the postman!
. Going to Native Place for Summer Vacations.
. I am hungry... A pet dialogue of my Cousin at 2 AM. (She is no more)
. Receiving & Sending Greeting Cards on special occasions. (Also shopping for them)
. Playing Basketball (The Lay up shot)
. Late Night College Parties (The risk of being caught was so thrilling)
. Urgent Phone Calls During Exam Time (Trying to find out how much syllabus others have revised)
. Sword fights using long bamboos with my cousin on the top of the garage at my Grandfather's place (It has been ages since have been to that house... Don't feel like going there)
. School Picnics (Going out with friends was the best thing)
. Breaking out in a jig in the middle of the road (Oh I loved doing it.. esp imitating Amitabh Bachchan's dance steps)
. Stealing Jamun from a tree near School after School Hours ( I was very Notorious)
. Bossing around and dictating terms to Seniors because my Mom was their teacher (By the way I was in 6th Std n the Seniors in 11th & 12th)
. Singing as if no ones watching/listening (I am a pathetic singer)
. Performing on Popular, foot taping numbers (The preparation & working on Choreography was more fun than the actual performance)
. Laughing & Giggling for hours n Hours with no specific reason! (People used to actually think that we have gone mad)
. The Cellphone free era (and still be contactable)
. Stealing Kacha Aam from Neighbours garden and eating it with Salt & Red Chilly Powder ( That used to be yum)
I have not numbered the list as all are equally missed....... There are many more but these are the most missed...
I am sure everyone will have one such special list.
I have also prepared a list of things I want to achieve in life, guess I'm yet not ready enough mentally to share it with anyone but me.
Dec 20, 2007
The Friends
Everything in life has a definite start and then it goes on till it has a definite end!
What if............................
There is no start???
Is it that there would be no definite existence if there is no definite start?
Interesting Thought........................
But this may seem a bit confusing so let me put it in form of a story....
She & Her are good friends and they share most of their deepest thoughts. Well.... most, I believe!
One fine day She decided to visit the lanes of past which had led to She & Her friendship. She remembered who had introduced She to Her but could not remember actually how they had met or how and when had they become so comfortable with each other to discuss things which they may not be comfortable discussing with anyone else!
So She picked the phone and called Her, the most natural thing for She to do when ever she was caught in a 'situation' or was in some dilemma.
She posed the question to Her and it was followed by silence at the other end.
Both didn't remember how they met or how they got so close.
Most surprising part was that both didn't remember if they had talked about or discussed anything which could be termed as personal in person. They remembered all the fun, the movies, the theatre visits, eating ordered food, watching TV.
They were not able to trace the beginning of what seemed the most natural thing to do today.
After I realised that She & Her can't figure out how their friendship started I decided to let it be.
But it got me thinking!
Sometimes God sends people who become an important pivot in your life & you thank God for being so thoughtful. The relation becomes so big that the rest is ignorable.
If something does not have a start but exists, then it may just go on for ever and ever and ever (Amen to that!).
So next time you find yourself in a relation whose beginning you can't remember, may be its a Good sign!
What if............................
There is no start???
Is it that there would be no definite existence if there is no definite start?
Interesting Thought........................
But this may seem a bit confusing so let me put it in form of a story....
She & Her are good friends and they share most of their deepest thoughts. Well.... most, I believe!
One fine day She decided to visit the lanes of past which had led to She & Her friendship. She remembered who had introduced She to Her but could not remember actually how they had met or how and when had they become so comfortable with each other to discuss things which they may not be comfortable discussing with anyone else!
So She picked the phone and called Her, the most natural thing for She to do when ever she was caught in a 'situation' or was in some dilemma.
She posed the question to Her and it was followed by silence at the other end.
Both didn't remember how they met or how they got so close.
Most surprising part was that both didn't remember if they had talked about or discussed anything which could be termed as personal in person. They remembered all the fun, the movies, the theatre visits, eating ordered food, watching TV.
They were not able to trace the beginning of what seemed the most natural thing to do today.
After I realised that She & Her can't figure out how their friendship started I decided to let it be.
But it got me thinking!
Sometimes God sends people who become an important pivot in your life & you thank God for being so thoughtful. The relation becomes so big that the rest is ignorable.
If something does not have a start but exists, then it may just go on for ever and ever and ever (Amen to that!).
So next time you find yourself in a relation whose beginning you can't remember, may be its a Good sign!
Mar 23, 2007
A Second Homecoming!!!
I'm going to Ibetza!!!!!! is what I had been singing..
Reason, I was going to Bombay, the love of my life..
The week before it passed in a bliss, the thought of going back to that city was so strong that the work stress of issue closing which was filled with disappointments of refusals and ad drops seemed to have no effect on me.
The D day finally came and I stepped out in the early night of Bombay.
The feeling was euphoric. After ensuring that my colleague is bundled off to the hotel safely, I turned to look around.
The next day had to be office, the reason I was there. So once I was done with office the rest of the evening and the next day was mine!
I went on spree of meeting old friends and finishing some old pending tasks.
I enjoyed every minute of it.
Soon it was time to fly back and three and half hours later (my flight had got delayed due to a technical snag) I was back in Delhi.
I felt good, very good to be there but there was something else too...
I realised a fact of life. Any place earns a place in your heart not just because of the place but also due to the people you meet, interact and stay with. It's the whole experience which makes a city a wonderful or dreadful place.
I was glad to be in Bombay but the feeling, the special feeling which I had for the city was not as strong as it used to be.
It confused me and made me restless.
When I had left Bombay for good, somewhere I felt that the dream I was chasing (The Dream is something I would talk about in another post) has ended abruptly.
I was hurt and sulking or maybe scared to restart things from scratch away from the city which I had grown to love.
What I had missed seeing was that I was moving to the city where I learned the meaning of Independence. The city which gave me the base & foundation to do what I am doing.
The Independence and financial freedom which I experienced in Bombay was because of Delhi.
I was speechless and in trance when I realised this.
So, when my flight touched the Delhi airport, I felt I was truly Home.
A Second Homecoming Indeed!
Reason, I was going to Bombay, the love of my life..
The week before it passed in a bliss, the thought of going back to that city was so strong that the work stress of issue closing which was filled with disappointments of refusals and ad drops seemed to have no effect on me.
The D day finally came and I stepped out in the early night of Bombay.
The feeling was euphoric. After ensuring that my colleague is bundled off to the hotel safely, I turned to look around.
The next day had to be office, the reason I was there. So once I was done with office the rest of the evening and the next day was mine!
I went on spree of meeting old friends and finishing some old pending tasks.
I enjoyed every minute of it.
Soon it was time to fly back and three and half hours later (my flight had got delayed due to a technical snag) I was back in Delhi.
I felt good, very good to be there but there was something else too...
I realised a fact of life. Any place earns a place in your heart not just because of the place but also due to the people you meet, interact and stay with. It's the whole experience which makes a city a wonderful or dreadful place.
I was glad to be in Bombay but the feeling, the special feeling which I had for the city was not as strong as it used to be.
It confused me and made me restless.
When I had left Bombay for good, somewhere I felt that the dream I was chasing (The Dream is something I would talk about in another post) has ended abruptly.
I was hurt and sulking or maybe scared to restart things from scratch away from the city which I had grown to love.
What I had missed seeing was that I was moving to the city where I learned the meaning of Independence. The city which gave me the base & foundation to do what I am doing.
The Independence and financial freedom which I experienced in Bombay was because of Delhi.
I was speechless and in trance when I realised this.
So, when my flight touched the Delhi airport, I felt I was truly Home.
A Second Homecoming Indeed!
Feb 22, 2007
Treat Mania!!!
Today, I hogged!
After a long time I have eaten more than I should or can.
A friendly batter and have ended up with an over stuffed tummy and drowsiness.
I have only one wish. To curdle up in a bed & sleep.
Yes, I also wish that I had eaten less. But, what is done is done.
It started as a friendly leg pulling of a colleague in office while wishing him on his anniversary.
It went forward with a promise that he would treat us to lunch.
(Un)fortunately I didn't take him seriously and ate my tiffin as soon as it was lunch hour not to forget that I had eaten a Samosa earlier in the morning i.e. after coming to office and today wonders of wonder had even had breakfast in the morning before leaving for work!
So, here it was an array of irresistible food items spread across for us to enjoy.
We did full Justice to the food and enjoyed every bit of it. We even reordered a specific delicacy and wrapped it up with sweets.
Considering the amount of intake of food, I guess my current situation was inevitable.
I am looking for the first opportunity to slip out of office and go home and drift into sweet slumber.
Feb 21, 2007
Life Goes On!!!
Yes no matter what Life goes on..
I'm sounding philosophical....
But what to do.. an incident today made me think like this..
We keep talking about our job and better pay packages. But, people have more in life to look at and bear.
The dhaba wala near my office in Okhla is a person who believes in simple living and high thinking, ie when it comes to his business. He serves only thali and rice plate.
Today, like any other day, I along with my colleagues walked out of office to have Lunch at the Dhaba. From a distance we could see unusually heavy crowd. We learned that the MCD team has come over to clean the encroached areas.
We still walked up to the Dhaba wala and was told very calmly by him "Bus 15 min". On probing further we were told that they were intimated yesterday itself to expect a raid today. So, they had already packed most of their stuff in advance and that the MCD vehicle would go in 15 min max and they would serve food then. He also told very matter of factly that they send the monthly 'Kharcha Pani' to the concerned official and there was nothing to worry about.
The whole attitude and his reactions were making it clear that he is used to such things and they are part of the business.
His reactions could be equated to our month end stress of closing!
As promised after about 20 mins all did become 'NORMAL' again and people were having there lunch as if nothing had happened...
I'm sounding philosophical....
But what to do.. an incident today made me think like this..
We keep talking about our job and better pay packages. But, people have more in life to look at and bear.
The dhaba wala near my office in Okhla is a person who believes in simple living and high thinking, ie when it comes to his business. He serves only thali and rice plate.
Today, like any other day, I along with my colleagues walked out of office to have Lunch at the Dhaba. From a distance we could see unusually heavy crowd. We learned that the MCD team has come over to clean the encroached areas.
We still walked up to the Dhaba wala and was told very calmly by him "Bus 15 min". On probing further we were told that they were intimated yesterday itself to expect a raid today. So, they had already packed most of their stuff in advance and that the MCD vehicle would go in 15 min max and they would serve food then. He also told very matter of factly that they send the monthly 'Kharcha Pani' to the concerned official and there was nothing to worry about.
The whole attitude and his reactions were making it clear that he is used to such things and they are part of the business.
His reactions could be equated to our month end stress of closing!
As promised after about 20 mins all did become 'NORMAL' again and people were having there lunch as if nothing had happened...
Feb 3, 2007
Back With My Scooter
In my last post I had shared my experience of dancing while driving.
The new experience makes me laugh and thank God at the same time.
Well, not so long ago as always I was getting ready to leave for home.
So as usual after collecting my stuff which include a bag, an empty tiffin, the helmet, the jacket, then connected the mobile to the hands free, switched on the FM, wore my anti-glare, located the scooters key (phew!) and walked out.
As soon as I walked out of the building I saw two of my colleagues coming back from a meeting and after exchanging good byes we continued our respective task, I started walking to the parking and they puffing there already lite cigarettes.
Again, as always I placed the tiffin and then my bag in the front carrier of my scooter, unlocked the scooter, wore the helmet, pulled it off stand, turned it in the direction of the road, put the stand back, kick started it, boarded it and when I was about to put it in gear I saw another of my colleague joining the earlier ones. He was standing at the corner of the road and my naughty self was in mood of full action.
The scooter moved and I stopped it right in front of my colleague trying to make him edgy by racing the accelerator and making the scooter move forward a notch and then stopping it again.
Soon I decided to let go (after all it was my petrol which was burning!). After another round of good byes I started off.
The scooter lunged forward and before I could realise I along with my scooter was on the ground.
The first instinct was to get up and hope no one has seen me fall...
Unfortunately I saw not just my colleagues but security guards, drivers and other people present there run towards me.
The colleague whom I was troubling reached me first and help me remove my helmet and assess the damage. Nothing much was evident that time.
Now the million dollar question... How did it happen?
I don't know.
My colleagues.. don't know. They heard a loud bang and saw me flat on the ground.
The line "Humpty Dumpty had a great fall" came to my mind and seemed so apt.
I started laughing and my colleagues joined me.
I suddenly remembered to access the damage done to my scooter and was hurt to see what had happened.
Anyways when I reached home I realised the full impact of the fall as my both palms, knees and stomach were paining. My right hand had suffered the biggest blow and was scratched from the elbow to the palm with blood oozing out nicely.
A freak accident, but a thought which came to my mind seconds after the fall was Thank You God for this and not something bigger!
Well the physical damage I suffered has almost healed but till date I don't know how it happened.
The new experience makes me laugh and thank God at the same time.
Well, not so long ago as always I was getting ready to leave for home.
So as usual after collecting my stuff which include a bag, an empty tiffin, the helmet, the jacket, then connected the mobile to the hands free, switched on the FM, wore my anti-glare, located the scooters key (phew!) and walked out.
As soon as I walked out of the building I saw two of my colleagues coming back from a meeting and after exchanging good byes we continued our respective task, I started walking to the parking and they puffing there already lite cigarettes.
Again, as always I placed the tiffin and then my bag in the front carrier of my scooter, unlocked the scooter, wore the helmet, pulled it off stand, turned it in the direction of the road, put the stand back, kick started it, boarded it and when I was about to put it in gear I saw another of my colleague joining the earlier ones. He was standing at the corner of the road and my naughty self was in mood of full action.
The scooter moved and I stopped it right in front of my colleague trying to make him edgy by racing the accelerator and making the scooter move forward a notch and then stopping it again.
Soon I decided to let go (after all it was my petrol which was burning!). After another round of good byes I started off.
The scooter lunged forward and before I could realise I along with my scooter was on the ground.
The first instinct was to get up and hope no one has seen me fall...
Unfortunately I saw not just my colleagues but security guards, drivers and other people present there run towards me.
The colleague whom I was troubling reached me first and help me remove my helmet and assess the damage. Nothing much was evident that time.
Now the million dollar question... How did it happen?
I don't know.
My colleagues.. don't know. They heard a loud bang and saw me flat on the ground.
The line "Humpty Dumpty had a great fall" came to my mind and seemed so apt.
I started laughing and my colleagues joined me.
I suddenly remembered to access the damage done to my scooter and was hurt to see what had happened.
Anyways when I reached home I realised the full impact of the fall as my both palms, knees and stomach were paining. My right hand had suffered the biggest blow and was scratched from the elbow to the palm with blood oozing out nicely.
A freak accident, but a thought which came to my mind seconds after the fall was Thank You God for this and not something bigger!
Well the physical damage I suffered has almost healed but till date I don't know how it happened.
Jan 18, 2007
Me, My Scooter & The Music
A combination of Me, My Scooter & Music.... seemed very normal and usual till few days back...
One fine day the meaning of this combination changed....
How? When?? Where???
Here it goes...
One fine evening, few days back, like always I walked out of my office, plugged my hands free to my mobile and switched on fm, started my scooter and was on way to home.
That day my scooters accelerator was giving me some problem and used to get stuck at a place if raced and had to use slight pressure to move it down.
I thought that I'll grease it when I reach home.
(Un)Fortunately the RJ was playing all my favorite songs, some which I had not heard for a long time and was enjoying it thoroughly.
A song got over and the next song which started was, Mambo No 5...
I have some very sweet memories with this song and I till today don't know what got into me then.
I broke into a dance.
Yes, while riding my scooter I was dancing.
The accelerator problem helped me here as I had coolly left the handle to guide me rather than the other way round.
So after few mins when the song ended my hands went back to the handle and I again started guiding the scooter.
At that moment I realised what I had done!
I have a smile playing on my lips when I am remembering that now.
It was a very stupid and risky thing to do but I don't know what got into me then.....
I have not mentioned this at home or I would be banned from even touching the scooter....
I do ride my scooter with my hands off but that is for very short duration.
This particular instance was the longest and the best....
Oh How I enjoyed it!!!!!
I hope I am able to muster enough courage to try this again....
I would love to....
One fine day the meaning of this combination changed....
How? When?? Where???
Here it goes...
One fine evening, few days back, like always I walked out of my office, plugged my hands free to my mobile and switched on fm, started my scooter and was on way to home.
That day my scooters accelerator was giving me some problem and used to get stuck at a place if raced and had to use slight pressure to move it down.
I thought that I'll grease it when I reach home.
(Un)Fortunately the RJ was playing all my favorite songs, some which I had not heard for a long time and was enjoying it thoroughly.
A song got over and the next song which started was, Mambo No 5...
I have some very sweet memories with this song and I till today don't know what got into me then.
I broke into a dance.
Yes, while riding my scooter I was dancing.
The accelerator problem helped me here as I had coolly left the handle to guide me rather than the other way round.
So after few mins when the song ended my hands went back to the handle and I again started guiding the scooter.
At that moment I realised what I had done!
I have a smile playing on my lips when I am remembering that now.
It was a very stupid and risky thing to do but I don't know what got into me then.....
I have not mentioned this at home or I would be banned from even touching the scooter....
I do ride my scooter with my hands off but that is for very short duration.
This particular instance was the longest and the best....
Oh How I enjoyed it!!!!!
I hope I am able to muster enough courage to try this again....
I would love to....
Jan 2, 2007
Excitement
Another New Year Has Decended!
There is a new excitement, celebration and joy everywhere.
It makes me smile...
Life has not changed.... We all are same, have the same schedule, the same job...
In all, the same life...
But still there is Hope...
If U look closer, it's the same Hope too! The hope we nurture at the beginning of each year.
Its only the date which has changed....
Has THIS change made us all happy??
But, aren't we generally resistent to Change?
Maybe, we have learnt to accept and enjoy things which are not in our control..
A mantra for survival......
A point of View if applied not just during the onset of New Year can help us stay happy for ever..
But as I myself believe...
Variety is the spice of Life!
All sugary can also make it taste bitter so some salt is essential !!!
Well contradictory statements...
What to do life is all about living in contradictions!!!!
There is a new excitement, celebration and joy everywhere.
It makes me smile...
Life has not changed.... We all are same, have the same schedule, the same job...
In all, the same life...
But still there is Hope...
If U look closer, it's the same Hope too! The hope we nurture at the beginning of each year.
Its only the date which has changed....
Has THIS change made us all happy??
But, aren't we generally resistent to Change?
Maybe, we have learnt to accept and enjoy things which are not in our control..
A mantra for survival......
A point of View if applied not just during the onset of New Year can help us stay happy for ever..
But as I myself believe...
Variety is the spice of Life!
All sugary can also make it taste bitter so some salt is essential !!!
Well contradictory statements...
What to do life is all about living in contradictions!!!!
Dec 9, 2006
Freedom
I have been driving my two wheeler for a long time and I am very sensitive about it.
I get very offened if someone calls my Scooter, 'scooty' coz I dont drive a non geared vehicle as I Hate them.
I have driven my scooter at all possible speeds and there was a time when we friends used to compete to drive the slowest....On the contrary We used to indulge in racing too....
But those were my school/college days!
Driving my scooter later had become just a necessity and somehow I just stopped driving.
About 2 years back I started driving again.
I once again realised the joy of driving, rediscoverd the feeling of ecstasy when the breeze kisses your face!
But this joy was not long lived and again I went back to days without my scooter.
I was back on the seat of my scooter few months ago but the elation I used to feel was missing and driving it from IP Extn to Okhla -III & back had become a normal, monotonus routine.
But all changed today.
I like most days was running late for work and to top it all there was a HUGE traffic jam from Sarai Kale Khan till Ashram which meant a delay of atleast 1/2 hour.
I dont know what came to my mind and I made a U turn and took the Pragati Maidan way to Okhla via Jangpura and Nehru Place. After I crossed Pragati Maidan, I was pleasently surpried to get traffic less road and I raced up the accelator and was driving at a speed of slightly above 80 km/hr. But before I could start enjoying it, I reached office! I must add, in time....
But opportunity knocked my door again.
Later in the day, I was running late for a very important meeting in NOIDA and to cover up the lost time, I decided to drive down.
I took the DND Flyway and I didn't realise when I reached my destination. The most surprising part was that I didn't think about the meeting at all.
So on my way back I again took the DND Flyway and relived the joy of driving.
I rediscovered the feeling of ecstacy when the breeze kisses your face, driving with half closed eyes with a smile playing on your face.
I felt that the glass wall around me has broken!
The breeze had taken away all my worries and the capacity of few emotions to make me gloomy. Oh I was alive again.
I was free......................... yet again!
I get very offened if someone calls my Scooter, 'scooty' coz I dont drive a non geared vehicle as I Hate them.
I have driven my scooter at all possible speeds and there was a time when we friends used to compete to drive the slowest....On the contrary We used to indulge in racing too....
But those were my school/college days!
Driving my scooter later had become just a necessity and somehow I just stopped driving.
About 2 years back I started driving again.
I once again realised the joy of driving, rediscoverd the feeling of ecstasy when the breeze kisses your face!
But this joy was not long lived and again I went back to days without my scooter.
I was back on the seat of my scooter few months ago but the elation I used to feel was missing and driving it from IP Extn to Okhla -III & back had become a normal, monotonus routine.
But all changed today.
I like most days was running late for work and to top it all there was a HUGE traffic jam from Sarai Kale Khan till Ashram which meant a delay of atleast 1/2 hour.
I dont know what came to my mind and I made a U turn and took the Pragati Maidan way to Okhla via Jangpura and Nehru Place. After I crossed Pragati Maidan, I was pleasently surpried to get traffic less road and I raced up the accelator and was driving at a speed of slightly above 80 km/hr. But before I could start enjoying it, I reached office! I must add, in time....
But opportunity knocked my door again.
Later in the day, I was running late for a very important meeting in NOIDA and to cover up the lost time, I decided to drive down.
I took the DND Flyway and I didn't realise when I reached my destination. The most surprising part was that I didn't think about the meeting at all.
So on my way back I again took the DND Flyway and relived the joy of driving.
I rediscovered the feeling of ecstacy when the breeze kisses your face, driving with half closed eyes with a smile playing on your face.
I felt that the glass wall around me has broken!
The breeze had taken away all my worries and the capacity of few emotions to make me gloomy. Oh I was alive again.
I was free......................... yet again!
Aug 11, 2006
Changing Ways!... But
I have been noticing certain changing ways.
Of????
Of we Indians. Yes the ones staying in big city. I won't be able to comment on the ways of smaller towns or villages as have recently not been exposed much to the way of living there.
Rakhi came and went two days back.
I was happy that my office had declared leave on the occasion of Rakhi and would give me some time to spend at home and do some pending household work.
But, I was not atall ready for what I experienced.
(Un)Fortunately I had to step out of home, and no not to tie rakhi as I don't have any real brother and my cousins don't stay in the same city.
The first 10 minutes on road were a smooth drive and then suddenly all hell broke lose. There was traffic chaos everywhere. The vehicles would not stop coming and we were stuck in the middle, couldnot go in front nor could turn back.
In all the chaos and confusion as usual my mind started running on another tangent.
In my mind I was running backwards, yes back in time.
I ran back in my memory to that thread end which I could remember and stopped.
Then I started walking again from my past towards my present.
Festivals in my childhood (won't say my younger days as it will sound as if I have gone old!) were also occasion of celebrations and ways of sociallising with family and friends. And such occasions were few to be precise 3 occasion throughout the year viz; Holi, Dushera & Diwali.
But with years more festivals started gaining importance socially.
Soon it started becoming a status symbol to celebrate festivals.
And after the Indian Economy boom it is reaching a new high...Commercially.
Yes Our festivals have become commercial.
Just think and see around you. The euphoria created due to any occasion is so inflated that its glitter sometimes take my breath away.
On the brighter side, we are becoming more and more secular and flexible. Baisakhi is no longer a festival celebrated in specific states of North India. Be it Pongal, Idul-Zuha, Id (oh I love demanding Idde from elders), rakhi, karva chauth, chat puja, christmas or anything, everyone wants to celebrate every festival, give and receive gifts, and just have a gala time.
But, I don't know how right or wrong is this.
It's just that I find it wierd. Guess somewhere deep down in my heart I am still old fashioned.
Maybe my lifestlye, my behaviour, my actions have changed as per the 'culture' prevalent around me. But somewhere a corner of my heart has refused to change...
May Be...
Of????
Of we Indians. Yes the ones staying in big city. I won't be able to comment on the ways of smaller towns or villages as have recently not been exposed much to the way of living there.
Rakhi came and went two days back.
I was happy that my office had declared leave on the occasion of Rakhi and would give me some time to spend at home and do some pending household work.
But, I was not atall ready for what I experienced.
(Un)Fortunately I had to step out of home, and no not to tie rakhi as I don't have any real brother and my cousins don't stay in the same city.
The first 10 minutes on road were a smooth drive and then suddenly all hell broke lose. There was traffic chaos everywhere. The vehicles would not stop coming and we were stuck in the middle, couldnot go in front nor could turn back.
In all the chaos and confusion as usual my mind started running on another tangent.
In my mind I was running backwards, yes back in time.
I ran back in my memory to that thread end which I could remember and stopped.
Then I started walking again from my past towards my present.
Festivals in my childhood (won't say my younger days as it will sound as if I have gone old!) were also occasion of celebrations and ways of sociallising with family and friends. And such occasions were few to be precise 3 occasion throughout the year viz; Holi, Dushera & Diwali.
But with years more festivals started gaining importance socially.
Soon it started becoming a status symbol to celebrate festivals.
And after the Indian Economy boom it is reaching a new high...Commercially.
Yes Our festivals have become commercial.
Just think and see around you. The euphoria created due to any occasion is so inflated that its glitter sometimes take my breath away.
On the brighter side, we are becoming more and more secular and flexible. Baisakhi is no longer a festival celebrated in specific states of North India. Be it Pongal, Idul-Zuha, Id (oh I love demanding Idde from elders), rakhi, karva chauth, chat puja, christmas or anything, everyone wants to celebrate every festival, give and receive gifts, and just have a gala time.
But, I don't know how right or wrong is this.
It's just that I find it wierd. Guess somewhere deep down in my heart I am still old fashioned.
Maybe my lifestlye, my behaviour, my actions have changed as per the 'culture' prevalent around me. But somewhere a corner of my heart has refused to change...
May Be...
Aug 8, 2006
Sex
Oh Yes!
Sex!
A three letter word, which results in 1,050,000,000 results when searched on Google web and 2,690,000 results when searched on Google Image and yes I had removed all filters before giving the search command.
Phew!
Why is it the most talked about, most hidden about topic is beyond me.
Yes, I also don't talk about it infront of anyone because either I am asked to shut up or people around me get uncomfortable. But, the biggest reason is that people start making a pass at me thinking me to be someone of losse character!
Well, aren't we all result of this three letter word?
We may use n number of ways to discribe it, reproductive process, natures law, love making.. but it is after all SEX. Thats it.
So???
I fail to understand the heu n cry made about it.
Yes, people say that we live in a society and should follow it's rules. Accepted and we most of the time do that. So then why is it a tabbu to talk about even in the socially acceptable relationships.
I tried, believe me very patiently and earnestly tried to find the reason but couldnot.
And yes I never broched this subject infront of my parents..
After all we need to follow the rules of the society..
Isn't It?
Sex!
A three letter word, which results in 1,050,000,000 results when searched on Google web and 2,690,000 results when searched on Google Image and yes I had removed all filters before giving the search command.
Phew!
Why is it the most talked about, most hidden about topic is beyond me.
Yes, I also don't talk about it infront of anyone because either I am asked to shut up or people around me get uncomfortable. But, the biggest reason is that people start making a pass at me thinking me to be someone of losse character!
Well, aren't we all result of this three letter word?
We may use n number of ways to discribe it, reproductive process, natures law, love making.. but it is after all SEX. Thats it.
So???
I fail to understand the heu n cry made about it.
Yes, people say that we live in a society and should follow it's rules. Accepted and we most of the time do that. So then why is it a tabbu to talk about even in the socially acceptable relationships.
I tried, believe me very patiently and earnestly tried to find the reason but couldnot.
And yes I never broched this subject infront of my parents..
After all we need to follow the rules of the society..
Isn't It?
Jul 10, 2006
The Contrasting faces of Nature
I have recently been visiting some sites and seeing some great work done by the camera or rather the bperson behind it.....
Just thought to bring forth two contrasting views of the city called Mumbai......
The first is a view of Gate way of India on my way back from Elephenta Caves at Dusk... The Sun can been seen shining on the wall of gateway of India....
The second snap is of the landscape between Neral & Matheran taken from the toy train on way to Matheran at Dawn... There was lot of cloud and drizzle.. But suddenly the clouds cleared and this view came infront of our eyes.. A view which gives the feel that the mountains have been just washed.....
Well the camera used was a simple Yashica Camera with auto focus....
Sometimes I feel I could almost catch what I wanted to....
But there are days when I close my eyes and relive these beauties of nature, I feel a lot got left out and there is a long way to go before I would be able to capture the main essence of nature.....
But still donno why.. these snaps never fail to amaze me on the vastness and versetality of nature....
Well yes Nature IS amazing!
Just thought to bring forth two contrasting views of the city called Mumbai......
The first is a view of Gate way of India on my way back from Elephenta Caves at Dusk... The Sun can been seen shining on the wall of gateway of India....
The second snap is of the landscape between Neral & Matheran taken from the toy train on way to Matheran at Dawn... There was lot of cloud and drizzle.. But suddenly the clouds cleared and this view came infront of our eyes.. A view which gives the feel that the mountains have been just washed.....
Well the camera used was a simple Yashica Camera with auto focus....
Sometimes I feel I could almost catch what I wanted to....
But there are days when I close my eyes and relive these beauties of nature, I feel a lot got left out and there is a long way to go before I would be able to capture the main essence of nature.....
But still donno why.. these snaps never fail to amaze me on the vastness and versetality of nature....
Well yes Nature IS amazing!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)