After watching the disastrous What's your rashee? last week, I was very doubtful about watching this one. Especially since it was from a new director, a 24 year old one for that. Well, but I convinced S because wanted to check out Ranbir Kapoor and the presence of Konkona in the movie somehow re-assured me. Well, I am glad I decided to watch the movie.
Its very hard not to like the movie. Its a young coming-of-age movie of a young guy, Sid and the movie is all heart. Not witty or intense like Dil Chahta hai, but the movie has a young fresh innocence about it and it will definitely appeal to all urban youth. I am sure everybody will identify with some part of Sid and Aisha. The star of the movie is Ranbir Kapoor. Not only does he look great - but his portrayal of Sid makes you fall in love with this character, it is hard to remain indifferent to Sid in the movie. It is a slow, refreshing movie - no twists or turns, no intense drama, maybe that's why it seems realistic. Ranbir Kapoor more than delivers - I was really smitten by him at the end of the movie. And a pat on the back to the casting director of the movie - he chose the cast well, they were perfect for each role.
Watch it for Ranbir and Ayaan (the director). I am surprised that a 24 year old can really make a movie like this. If you notice closely, the director has paid attention to details - and that's one of the reasons why the movie works.
-Moi
Song of the day: Iktara
Mood of the day: tired.
Showing posts with label Moi. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Moi. Show all posts
04 October, 2009
17 August, 2009
Kaminey
Vishal Bharadwaj has done it again! Given a movie that is so different from the mindless crap that directors keep dishing out week after week. I have to say that it does not live up to all the hype created – nevertheless, in Charlie’s words it is a muft watch!
It is a dark, funny movie that addresses so many socio-political issues in India today. From AIDS awareness to Raj Thakarey’s Marathi Manoos – to corruption, he shows it all in the movie. It is an ‘A’ rated movie – and I think rightly so. Well, let’s talk about the good stuff. Vishal Bharadwaj – he is the strength of the movie. Direction, music, lyrics, dialogues and photography are flawless in the movie. Acting wise – each and every character in the movie has acted brilliantly. Shahid Kapoor is brilliant as the twins – Charlie and Guddu, both with speech disorders. Even the narration of the movie is done with a lifp J. Priyanka Chopra is a surprise treat to watch as Sweety, a feisty Maharashtrian gal – she is so endearing as this high – strung confused yet absolutely relatable character. She packs a punch in every scene that she is in and her chemistry with Guddu is just great. Mikhail, Amole Gupte as Bhope are all memorable characters. The background music of the movie in the first half is just fabulous. Every time Dhan Te Nan plays in the background – the heart beats faster and the movie races further. The pace of the movie is what is different about it. By the time the first half is over – you are exhausted in a good way ‘cos you have been at the edge of your seat in every scene. The dialogues are witty and great – humorous when they are not meant to be. And there is no spoon-feeding, the audience is compelled to pay attention and has to make out the twists and turns on their own.
After almost a perfect first half, the pace of the movie falls a bit flat in the second one. After the action packed first half, you end up expecting better from the second half – but here I think the movie falters a bit. It becomes slow and all the bits and pieces come together and culminate to a climax which is crazy, unexpected and funny in a way. The second half lets you a down a little bit. That’s what I felt. The flashback scenes between Charlie and Guddu were half-baked and hardly convincing.
But all being said, I wish this movie does well. I wish it for Vishal Bharadwaj’s sake and also to prove that Indian audiences are ready for a different film, a different genre than just a hero and heroine falling in love. It is an original movie – and a few scenes in the movie just stand out as brilliant. The scene where Sweety is trying to convince Guddu to marry her. The scene between Bhope bhau and Tope Bhau – it is just brilliant – reminding you of characters from movies like Pulp Fiction. The scene where Charlie realizes that he has stolen a police car no less to get away. These brilliant moments are what make the movie interesting and funny. Kudos to Vishal Bharadwaj to not falling prey to the Bollywood bandwagon of commercialism and being true to himself and taking the simple concept of comedy of errors and make it into a fast paced – high strung cinema.
- Moi
Mood of the day: Gloomy
Song of the day: Fatak!
31 July, 2009
Its a beautiful life!
I was travelling home from work yesterday - was tired after a long day’s work. Work has been busy since the past few weeks. I got a nice window seat in the bus and was just thankful I was going home. At the next stop two old ladies, maybe in their mid-seventies or so, got on the bus. They came and sat next to me. I couldn’t help but notice them. Both of them were dressed very well, wearing their pearls – both of them had perfectly manicured fingers and looked really sweet. They started talking and I couldn’t help but overhear. They were both friends, one was visiting the other from a different city and the host was showing her the sights in Chicago Downtown. The old lady lived in the suburbs and they had taken the train to the downtown. They had apparently been to the Sears tower and roamed around the city and now were headed to the Art Institute to check out the new wing that started this year. They were making plans for the next day to go watch the theater and were deciding on the restaurants they wanted to visit the next day. The lady who was visiting wanted to eat steak and so they decided to go to the steak place.
It was fascinating to see the two little ladies getting about the city, unescorted on their own. They started talking about how everything has changed. You need credit cards for everything and everything could be done on the internet. One of them said – “It’s like another world!” The other one said “Do you know they don’t accept cash anymore on flights if you want to buy a drink or something! How things have changed!” It was really fascinating to hear the both of them talk and make plans to make the most of their day out in the city. It just made me feel really good, brought a smile on my face and somehow felt refreshed after listening to them talk.
If and when I reach their age, if I manage to have half the will, energy, grace and enthusiasm that those two ladies had – I would be incredible happy and consider myself lucky!
- Moi
Mood of the day: Curious
Song of the day: Maan mausam ka kaha, chayi ghata, jaam utha!
It was fascinating to see the two little ladies getting about the city, unescorted on their own. They started talking about how everything has changed. You need credit cards for everything and everything could be done on the internet. One of them said – “It’s like another world!” The other one said “Do you know they don’t accept cash anymore on flights if you want to buy a drink or something! How things have changed!” It was really fascinating to hear the both of them talk and make plans to make the most of their day out in the city. It just made me feel really good, brought a smile on my face and somehow felt refreshed after listening to them talk.
If and when I reach their age, if I manage to have half the will, energy, grace and enthusiasm that those two ladies had – I would be incredible happy and consider myself lucky!
- Moi
Mood of the day: Curious
Song of the day: Maan mausam ka kaha, chayi ghata, jaam utha!
24 July, 2009
Move over Omkara... Kaminey is here!
The only songs that I am listening to since the last two weeks at work – gym – car … the new album Kaminey. After Beedi and Namak Ishq ka (two of my fav songs) – I thought that Vishal Bharadwaj had reached his musical crescendo – and then he comes out with Kaminey! It was love at first hearing :). It’s a great album – and he has Gulzar saab penning down the lyrics, well expect better than the best!
The first song in the album “Dhan Te Nan” – well like I said in my last post – it is addictive – the song starts full force. There is no time for the listener to get used to the beat and force of the music – you tumble into the song headlong. Aaja aaja dil nichode, raat ki matki todein, koi good luck nikale, aaj gullak to phodein. Who else but Gulzar can come up with such lines about squeezing the heart to find some stroke of good luck? Many times I wonder how he mixes English and Hindi words in such a meaningful manner. Take this - aaja ki one way hai yeh zindagi ki gali ek hi chance hai, aage hava hi hava hai agar saans hai to yeh romance hai. If James Bond was an Indian character and it was to be made in Hindi – Dhan te Nan would be its signature music. It reminds me of the 80’s movies, especially the Bacchan movies, where this music would be played in the background when a good cop is chasing a bad guy! Totally riveting. Sukhwinder Singh and Vishal Dadlani – great job!
The next song is a sweet romantic number by Mohit Chauhan (of Masakalli fame): Pehli Baar Mohabbat – the lyrics somehow remind me of Gulzar’s Mera Kuch Saaman. It is a lovely song – with beautiful lyrics khwab ke bojh se, kap kapati hui, halki palkain teri, yaad aata hai sab tujhe gudgudana, satana, yun hi sote hue, gaal pe teepna, meechna bewajah besabab. yaad hai peepal ke jiske ghane saaye the, hunme gilhari ke jhoote matar khaaye the and makes you fall in love with Pehli baar mohabbat ki hai, aakhri baar mohabbat ki hai.
The first time I listened to the next song “Fatak”, I did not pay too much attention to the lyrics as I was still recovering from “Dhan te Nan” – but then slowly realized the brilliance of the song. Ke Bhavra bhavra aaaya re… fatak ...ke gun gun karta aaye re…fatak! But as you approach to the end of the song – you realize that the ‘bhavra’ in the song is a metaphor for AIDS – and it is a song dedicated to AIDS awareness. Gulzar has used Khusro in Ye ishq nahi aasan, aji aids ka khatra hai, patwaar pehan jaana, yeh aag ka dariya hai. It all made sense after listening to this. And the message is unmistakable and clear. Very aptly put - ye chipku hamesha satayega, yeh jaayega, phir laut aayega, khoon ke maile katre mein jaan ke saare khatar ke aaaya, ke aaaya. And darwazon mein kunde ko dafaa karo ye gunde, ye shaitaan ka saaya re.
Then comes the title song in the form of Kaminey. Vishal Bharadwaj himself does the honors of singing and boy, he does good! The song starts with kya kare zindagi isko hum jo miley iski jaan kha gaye raat din ke giley with a little music. It’s a song of introspection and deep meaning – it has great lyrics and you really have to hunt for the meaning. It talks of desires and deceptions, friendships and betrayals. And the beauty of the song is that it still gives hope in spite of sounding a dark song. Kabhi zindagi se maanga pinjare mein chand la do, kabhi lalten de ke kaha aasma pe taango does just that. It is not a cynical song – but it just reflects, vintage Gulzar.
Raat Ke Dhai Baje, I think is an apt ending to the album. It has a host of singers - Rekha Bhardwaj, Sunidhi Chauhan, Suresh Wadkar and Kunal Ganjawala. This song at the end of it leaves you with wanting for more of it. This album is a male singer dominated one unlike Omkara which gave Sunidhi and Rekha Bharadwaj their best songs. This is also a faster and less serious version of Pehli Baar Mohabbat Ki Hai. Surprisingly there is Suresh Wadkar singing here. When I first heard it – I had no clue what that guy was doing in the song. But then it grew on me as did the lyrics. Now, I think his piece kind of binds the whole song together. Raat kuch aisa hua jaisa hota toh nahi, thaam ke rakha mujhe main bhi khota toh nahi and then my fav part of the song - ek hi lat suljhane mein saari raat guzaari hai jaan ki gathri sar pe le li aapne kaisi zehmat dee hai.
- Moi
Mood of the day: Happy - (yay! its Friday)
Song of the day: Raat ke dhai baje (actually any of the above)
21 July, 2009
Jagjit in concert!
This post was long due. But was putting it off for a long time now. We went to watch Jagjit Singh live in concert – just a week after we saw Bryan Adams.
I have never liked Jagjit Singh. I have nothing against poetry, or ghazals, but I just never liked him. I was never into ghazals and never in my life until a few years ago, was I exposed to ghazals or Urdu poetry. Yes, I never even read Ghalib back then. Well, as luck could have it, the Mister – big fan of Urdu poetry and Jagjit Singh. There was a time when all he listened to was ghazals and he read a lot of Urdu poetry too. He was the one who introduced me to Ghalib. Well, now I can say that I really like reading Ghalib. I absolutely love and devour his ghazals. But Jagjit Singh – I cannot come to appreciate.
Newho, the Mister had been trying to get me to like Jagjit for a long time. Well, I listen to him when I am forced to – and after all these years, I can even say that I like a few of his ghazals. The Mister since the past couple of years was trying to get me to agree to watch a Jagjit concert. I told him that he could always go alone and enjoy it – ‘cos I knew I wouldn’t appreciate or enjoy the concert. But he wanted me to come with him and share the experience (!) So, this time he somehow convinced me and bought the tickets, and one Friday evening we were at the Jagjit Singh concert. Well, I was surprised to see the turnout – quite a few Jagjit admirers in Chicago I must say. All the women dressed in their finest clothes – seeing all the bling around, for a minute I thought we were in the wrong place and there was a wedding going on instead – no, am not exaggerating. The Mister and I felt quite dowdy next to most of the people. Newho, it was still the beginning of spring – and was quite cold that night. Well, we entered the place where he was going to sing – and of course we had good seats – quite close to the stage. But what shocked me were the chairs. In India, the metal foldable chairs, that are usually found during marriages and functions, hard – metallic and cold – those were the kind of chairs that were there. The concert lasted for more than 4 hours. Well, for a 68 year old guy, it was great that he sang alone for about 4 hours. And also, he sounds better live than on a audio cassette :)
4 hours was a little too much for me. I was squirming in my seat – partly because they were sooo uncomfortable. But the Mister had a time of his life and he really enjoyed it. As for me, he was just happy that I did not fall asleep in my seat like the lady sitting in front of us. It was very funny, the lady dressed to the nines – bedecked with jewelry fell asleep half an hour into the concert :)
Song of the day: Sarakti jaaye (one of the few ghazals of Jagjit singh that I like)
Mood of the day: Happy!
P.S: check out http://ghazalrasik.blogspot.com – the Mister’s attempt at collecting ghazals that he likes and trying to interpret them.
I have never liked Jagjit Singh. I have nothing against poetry, or ghazals, but I just never liked him. I was never into ghazals and never in my life until a few years ago, was I exposed to ghazals or Urdu poetry. Yes, I never even read Ghalib back then. Well, as luck could have it, the Mister – big fan of Urdu poetry and Jagjit Singh. There was a time when all he listened to was ghazals and he read a lot of Urdu poetry too. He was the one who introduced me to Ghalib. Well, now I can say that I really like reading Ghalib. I absolutely love and devour his ghazals. But Jagjit Singh – I cannot come to appreciate.
Newho, the Mister had been trying to get me to like Jagjit for a long time. Well, I listen to him when I am forced to – and after all these years, I can even say that I like a few of his ghazals. The Mister since the past couple of years was trying to get me to agree to watch a Jagjit concert. I told him that he could always go alone and enjoy it – ‘cos I knew I wouldn’t appreciate or enjoy the concert. But he wanted me to come with him and share the experience (!) So, this time he somehow convinced me and bought the tickets, and one Friday evening we were at the Jagjit Singh concert. Well, I was surprised to see the turnout – quite a few Jagjit admirers in Chicago I must say. All the women dressed in their finest clothes – seeing all the bling around, for a minute I thought we were in the wrong place and there was a wedding going on instead – no, am not exaggerating. The Mister and I felt quite dowdy next to most of the people. Newho, it was still the beginning of spring – and was quite cold that night. Well, we entered the place where he was going to sing – and of course we had good seats – quite close to the stage. But what shocked me were the chairs. In India, the metal foldable chairs, that are usually found during marriages and functions, hard – metallic and cold – those were the kind of chairs that were there. The concert lasted for more than 4 hours. Well, for a 68 year old guy, it was great that he sang alone for about 4 hours. And also, he sounds better live than on a audio cassette :)
4 hours was a little too much for me. I was squirming in my seat – partly because they were sooo uncomfortable. But the Mister had a time of his life and he really enjoyed it. As for me, he was just happy that I did not fall asleep in my seat like the lady sitting in front of us. It was very funny, the lady dressed to the nines – bedecked with jewelry fell asleep half an hour into the concert :)
Song of the day: Sarakti jaaye (one of the few ghazals of Jagjit singh that I like)
Mood of the day: Happy!
P.S: check out http://ghazalrasik.blogspot.com – the Mister’s attempt at collecting ghazals that he likes and trying to interpret them.
13 May, 2009
Summer of 69!
I thought I would not blog about the Adam's concert - 'cos I thought I would not be able to put into words that experience (that happens with me - like the sky-diving experience, I never blogged about it - 'cos I cant put it into words), but decided to give it a try nevertheless.
Well, it was going to be a solo acoustic performance by Bryan Adams, no band - just him for 3 hours. I did not know what to expect as there was no band. I thought it would be more of him playing the guitar and a few songs here and there. I was definitely not prepared for what was to come. The show started at around 8:15pm - he came on to the stage. We had great seats - we were in the fifth row from the stage. I could even see the freckles and the stubble on his face - that's how close we were. He has a typical dry Canadian humor and he is a great performer.
All week I was wondering and asking the Mister what song would he open the concert with. Well, he started with 'Run to you' - it gave me goose bumps as he sang it. Even at 50, he looks great - he sings better! He was alone with the guitar and he sang continuously for 2 and a half hours. He plays brilliantly and he sings so well. He sang ALL the songs that I wanted him to sing. The only song that he missed was '18 till I die' but it was much much more and better than I expected.
Suddenly maybe after around 7-8 songs, he started 'Lets make a night to remember' - there was pin drop silence in the theater. He sang it so beautifully, I almost had tears in my eyes - no I am not exaggerating. That is like my fav Bryan Adams song and the way he sings it - so sincerely and with so much passion, just wants to make me cry. I was again a teenager, when I was totally in love with Bryan Adams.
In the middle of the concert - he sang his favorite and his most popular 'Summer of 69' - the whole theater was on their feet clapping and singing along with him. It was electrifying - he really is as good. I couldn't believe I was listening to this song live. He sang all the good ones -
'Run to you', Please forgive me, Everything I Do, Cuts like a Knife, All for love, Cloud number 9, Have you ever really loved a woman, Heaven, Can't stop this thing we started and many more. He even sang 'The only thing that looks good on me is you'. I really felt like I died and went to heaven.
Wow - writing about that evening makes me feel excited all over again. My hands were sore from clapping and the throat was hurting from all the yelling. For 3 whole days, I had the Bryan Adams hangover and dreamt about him. He still looks hot and he is a hell of a guy!! I am again totally enamoured by him. It was definitely a night I will remember forever!
- Moi
Mood of the day: Undecisive
Song of the day: Have you ever really loved a woman (go listen to it - NOW!)
Well, it was going to be a solo acoustic performance by Bryan Adams, no band - just him for 3 hours. I did not know what to expect as there was no band. I thought it would be more of him playing the guitar and a few songs here and there. I was definitely not prepared for what was to come. The show started at around 8:15pm - he came on to the stage. We had great seats - we were in the fifth row from the stage. I could even see the freckles and the stubble on his face - that's how close we were. He has a typical dry Canadian humor and he is a great performer.
All week I was wondering and asking the Mister what song would he open the concert with. Well, he started with 'Run to you' - it gave me goose bumps as he sang it. Even at 50, he looks great - he sings better! He was alone with the guitar and he sang continuously for 2 and a half hours. He plays brilliantly and he sings so well. He sang ALL the songs that I wanted him to sing. The only song that he missed was '18 till I die' but it was much much more and better than I expected.
Suddenly maybe after around 7-8 songs, he started 'Lets make a night to remember' - there was pin drop silence in the theater. He sang it so beautifully, I almost had tears in my eyes - no I am not exaggerating. That is like my fav Bryan Adams song and the way he sings it - so sincerely and with so much passion, just wants to make me cry. I was again a teenager, when I was totally in love with Bryan Adams.
In the middle of the concert - he sang his favorite and his most popular 'Summer of 69' - the whole theater was on their feet clapping and singing along with him. It was electrifying - he really is as good. I couldn't believe I was listening to this song live. He sang all the good ones -
'Run to you', Please forgive me, Everything I Do, Cuts like a Knife, All for love, Cloud number 9, Have you ever really loved a woman, Heaven, Can't stop this thing we started and many more. He even sang 'The only thing that looks good on me is you'. I really felt like I died and went to heaven.
Wow - writing about that evening makes me feel excited all over again. My hands were sore from clapping and the throat was hurting from all the yelling. For 3 whole days, I had the Bryan Adams hangover and dreamt about him. He still looks hot and he is a hell of a guy!! I am again totally enamoured by him. It was definitely a night I will remember forever!
- Moi
Mood of the day: Undecisive
Song of the day: Have you ever really loved a woman (go listen to it - NOW!)
01 May, 2009
Of Bulls and Bryan Adams!
What a great time it is for the Bulls fans and the cricket fans.
Go Bulls! – Each one of the play-off games was a treat to watch. It was great to see the underdogs triumph over the defending champions. It was a great game last night and I think Bulls really deserved to win though Ray Allen almost single handedly did it for the Celtics. Wow… what a game it was!! 3 OTs!!
I pray to the Basketball gods, Bulls should win in Boston on Saturday… that would be the icing on the cake. However imperfect and young the team is – they know how to fight!!
And on the other side of the world, IPL is providing equal amount of excitement and fervor. Since the past couple of weeks, my days are just filled with watching sports. Am having a great time watching the IPL – being a part of all the controversies, the excitement – it’s pure masala entertainment all the way!
On a totally different note – we are going to a Bryan Adams concert next weekend! Yay!! – It was a dream of mine during my engineering/college days to watch him live – ONCE!! I am uber-excited!!
Lots to look forward to… GO BULLS!!
- Moi
Song of the day: Cloud number Nine (what else!!)
22 April, 2009
Earth Day!
Just a gentle reminder to be kind to the environment and to the earth at least for one day! Take the extra steps to turn off the lights when not in the room today, try not to use plastic at least for one day today! Do the little you can for a day!
P.S: Its ironical, the client where I am working at have posters and flyers all over the place about going green and all that jazz. But - they don't have recycle bins at every cube. One of the first places I have worked at that don't have recycle baskets. Let alone every cube, there isn't a recycle bin per printer (shared by about 10 people) - so every time I have to trash some paper - I have to walk across the hall to the recycle bin!!
- Moi
Random!
...on arranged marriage
...arranged marriage is the intersection point at which the downward spiral of expectation meets the upward spiral of desperation!!
Interesting...!
On a totally different note -
- In a temperate climate zone you would sing - "Ain't no sunshine when she's gone"
- In a tropical climate zone you would sing - "Zindagi dhoop tum ghana saaya!"
Just thought that was funny!
- Moi
...arranged marriage is the intersection point at which the downward spiral of expectation meets the upward spiral of desperation!!
Interesting...!
On a totally different note -
- In a temperate climate zone you would sing - "Ain't no sunshine when she's gone"
- In a tropical climate zone you would sing - "Zindagi dhoop tum ghana saaya!"
Just thought that was funny!
- Moi
16 April, 2009
The White Tiger - Aravind Adiga.
This is a debut novel by Aravind Adiga and it also won him the Man Booker prize.
The White tiger is a very interesting and an entertaining read. But it’s hard for me to believe that there was no better writing this year anywhere in the world.
The small villages in India, rampant with illiteracy – where people are blinded with superstition and where people die of diseases like TB are rightfully termed as the Darkness. Balram Halwai, the hero of the book if you may, is from one such place called Laxmangarh which is the Darkness. It is his tale, narrated by him. It is his journey from the Darkness to the light – from Laxmangarh to Bangalore. A white tiger is the rarest creature in the jungle, only coming along once in every generation. Balram Halwai is the white tiger. Morality can sometimes be the cage that the rich use to keep the poor from making that essential leap. Balram is in the cage and it is the story of how he escapes from the cage fighting the rooster coop.
The book is quite fast paced, gripping and very witty. The protagonist’s character is very well-sketched. He is cocky, arrogant, quick-witted, half-baked, disrespectful and supremely quick to seize an advantage. His disrespect for his elders and betters is shocking -- even Mahatma Gandhi gets the lash of his scornful tongue.
This book has added to my sense that morality is a luxury of our situation - and that for all the feel-good factor of being a democracy, for the vast majority of people, there really isn't much difference between us and China except that they have ten ring roads.
-Moi
The White tiger is a very interesting and an entertaining read. But it’s hard for me to believe that there was no better writing this year anywhere in the world.
The small villages in India, rampant with illiteracy – where people are blinded with superstition and where people die of diseases like TB are rightfully termed as the Darkness. Balram Halwai, the hero of the book if you may, is from one such place called Laxmangarh which is the Darkness. It is his tale, narrated by him. It is his journey from the Darkness to the light – from Laxmangarh to Bangalore. A white tiger is the rarest creature in the jungle, only coming along once in every generation. Balram Halwai is the white tiger. Morality can sometimes be the cage that the rich use to keep the poor from making that essential leap. Balram is in the cage and it is the story of how he escapes from the cage fighting the rooster coop.
The book is quite fast paced, gripping and very witty. The protagonist’s character is very well-sketched. He is cocky, arrogant, quick-witted, half-baked, disrespectful and supremely quick to seize an advantage. His disrespect for his elders and betters is shocking -- even Mahatma Gandhi gets the lash of his scornful tongue.
This book has added to my sense that morality is a luxury of our situation - and that for all the feel-good factor of being a democracy, for the vast majority of people, there really isn't much difference between us and China except that they have ten ring roads.
-Moi
02 January, 2009
Hopper's Stop!
I have finally started another blog - a travelogue. Something that I always wanted to do - but never got to it. So here it is Hopper's Stop!
http://hoppers-stop.blogspot.com
-Moi
http://hoppers-stop.blogspot.com
-Moi
31 December, 2008
Happy New Year!
The melancholy continues - things are going wrong whenever they can! It does'nt suit me - this worrying thing - was never good at it, but of late have been doing a lot of it , but I don't even know what it is I am worried about - I want to blame it on the annual India trip not happening this year. Come December and I am yearning to go back home, and I have a feeling thats the reason for all this!
Neways, all good things come to an end - and so is 2008. Wish you all (all of the 2 or 3 people) who read this blog a Very Happy New Year!
- Moi
Mood of the day: Dubious
Song of the day: Where's the party tonite?
P.S: Writing on the wall for the day: Worrying is optional!
Pain is inevitable; suffering is optional!
Neways, all good things come to an end - and so is 2008. Wish you all (all of the 2 or 3 people) who read this blog a Very Happy New Year!
- Moi
Mood of the day: Dubious
Song of the day: Where's the party tonite?
P.S: Writing on the wall for the day: Worrying is optional!
Pain is inevitable; suffering is optional!
29 December, 2008
'08 - '09
Another year is coming to an end…! It was a very busy year. But somehow I am feeling something amiss as this year is ending. I don’t feel too happy to let the year end. I don’t want another year to pass by – I am not ready for ’09 – I feel I still have unfinished business with ’08!
I am feeling quite anti-social at the moment; looks like new-year blues have caught on! – is there something called new-year blues?
Christmas went by and the fat man (read Santa!) failed to create the mojo for me! New Year’s Eve parties need to be planned – but the joie de vivre is missing. I don’t feel like planning anything – and the weather is not helping either! Is it me or Chicago has never been so melancholic before? Sigh … maybe tomorrow will be a brighter day!
-Moi
Song of the day: Guzarish
Mood of the day: Gloomy
I am feeling quite anti-social at the moment; looks like new-year blues have caught on! – is there something called new-year blues?
Christmas went by and the fat man (read Santa!) failed to create the mojo for me! New Year’s Eve parties need to be planned – but the joie de vivre is missing. I don’t feel like planning anything – and the weather is not helping either! Is it me or Chicago has never been so melancholic before? Sigh … maybe tomorrow will be a brighter day!
-Moi
Song of the day: Guzarish
Mood of the day: Gloomy
25 December, 2008
Rab ne bana di jodi!
Yesterday we went to watch the movie "Rab ne bana di jodi" - this is not a review of the movie, 'cos I think the movie does not even deserve a review.
The movie was bad- we did not like it one bit and I was really bored - cliched scenes and over the top dialogues. One dialog in the movie - "Mujhe tum mein rab dikhta hai" - this is the central dialog of the movie. All the characters keep telling this to each other "Mujhe tum mein rab dikhta hai".
Well, I was maha-bored, and we were basically making fun of the movie, laughing and generally having a good time. I turn to the Mister and ask him "Kya tumko mujh mein rab dikhta hai?"
Promptly he turned to me and said "Haan dikhta hai na - mujhe tum mein Durga dikhti hai!"
Priceless!!
-Moi
The movie was bad- we did not like it one bit and I was really bored - cliched scenes and over the top dialogues. One dialog in the movie - "Mujhe tum mein rab dikhta hai" - this is the central dialog of the movie. All the characters keep telling this to each other "Mujhe tum mein rab dikhta hai".
Well, I was maha-bored, and we were basically making fun of the movie, laughing and generally having a good time. I turn to the Mister and ask him "Kya tumko mujh mein rab dikhta hai?"
Promptly he turned to me and said "Haan dikhta hai na - mujhe tum mein Durga dikhti hai!"
Priceless!!
-Moi
12 December, 2008
Songs - of the other kind!
There are some songs that you like – some that you love. And then there are other songs – which always bring back memories of moments or of people.
Songs that you always associate with certain people, certain incidents, certain times, certain memories. Songs that create moments - create memories. Here is a list of a few of such songs and what they mean to me. Every time I listen to any of these songs, everything comes back to me in a rush, bringing back all my thoughts and experiences associated with them.
1. O humdum suniyo re…
I love this movie, I love the songs of this movie – he left it on the voice message of my phone once – it was one of my ‘awww…’ moments
2. Gumshuda… koi hua
Voice chat over yahoo… he used to play this song on his end, when I went to India without him
3. Chandan sa badan…
He sang the whole song for me in a train ride going home – I don’t think he remembers it but I do
4. Janu meri jaan (replaces janu with my nick name)
Sings it every time I am angry with him
5. Chalte Chalte (from the movie Chalte Chalte)
I remember one of my friends when I listen to this song – ‘cos he got very sentimental one day listening to this
6. Pyar ke liye char pal kam nahi the
I remember one of my gal friends during my master’s who was going through a bad phase with her then-boy friend. This song was playing and she just started crying
7. Who the f*** is Alice?
Reminds me of my dear friend from engineering – ah those were the days!
8. Pal Pal dil ke paas
Always reminds me of my sister – when we were kids we always listened to the radio in the night before we fell asleep – and this song used to play a lot on the radio and she used to just love this song
9. Everything I do – I do it for you!
Somebody anonymously dedicated this song to me in the college fest – always makes me wonder who it was when I listen to this song
10. That’s the way it is – Celine Dion
Reminds me of a time in my own life when I really believed in this song and loved it … played it over and over just to reinforce the faith
11. Aye ganpat…
Reminds me of the road trip to the Smokies – the drive is a whole 10 hours and I think this song was playing on loop for at least 5 out of the 10 hours J
12. Ek akela is shehar mein
Reminds me of my first year in the US and a dear friend who was engaged. Her fiancé had gifted her with a cd of his favorite hindi movie songs. She was never a fan of Hindi movie music. Eventually, I ended up listening to that cd more than she ever did. This song was the first song in that cd – and I will always remember her when I listen to this song.
13. Bavra man dekhne chala ek sapna (Swanand Kirkire’s version)
This is a beautiful song- one of my favs. I listened to the songs from this movie quite late as I watched this movie quite late. I remember I watched this movie alone, and was very depressed after watching it, and when this song played I almost cried.
14. I just called to say I love you…
I remember this song – my first year in the US - my roomies (equally crazy as me) and me were trying to learn this song one night– playing it line after line, pausing it, repeating after it – and we finally learn the whole song by heart by 3.00 am in the morning. The three of us were singing so loudly and excitedly, the neighbor had to knock at our door at 3:00am and had to ask us stop :D.
15. That don’t impress me much
Again reminds me of my sis and me when we were in India – we really liked this song – and Shania Twain was hot.
16. Actually any Bryan Adams or Pink Floyd songs reminds me of my college days. I really really miss the happy-go-lucky, don't have a care in the world days.
- Moi
P.S: In the first 4 songs – the “he” refers to the Mister
Songs that you always associate with certain people, certain incidents, certain times, certain memories. Songs that create moments - create memories. Here is a list of a few of such songs and what they mean to me. Every time I listen to any of these songs, everything comes back to me in a rush, bringing back all my thoughts and experiences associated with them.
1. O humdum suniyo re…
I love this movie, I love the songs of this movie – he left it on the voice message of my phone once – it was one of my ‘awww…’ moments
2. Gumshuda… koi hua
Voice chat over yahoo… he used to play this song on his end, when I went to India without him
3. Chandan sa badan…
He sang the whole song for me in a train ride going home – I don’t think he remembers it but I do
4. Janu meri jaan (replaces janu with my nick name)
Sings it every time I am angry with him
5. Chalte Chalte (from the movie Chalte Chalte)
I remember one of my friends when I listen to this song – ‘cos he got very sentimental one day listening to this
6. Pyar ke liye char pal kam nahi the
I remember one of my gal friends during my master’s who was going through a bad phase with her then-boy friend. This song was playing and she just started crying
7. Who the f*** is Alice?
Reminds me of my dear friend from engineering – ah those were the days!
8. Pal Pal dil ke paas
Always reminds me of my sister – when we were kids we always listened to the radio in the night before we fell asleep – and this song used to play a lot on the radio and she used to just love this song
9. Everything I do – I do it for you!
Somebody anonymously dedicated this song to me in the college fest – always makes me wonder who it was when I listen to this song
10. That’s the way it is – Celine Dion
Reminds me of a time in my own life when I really believed in this song and loved it … played it over and over just to reinforce the faith
11. Aye ganpat…
Reminds me of the road trip to the Smokies – the drive is a whole 10 hours and I think this song was playing on loop for at least 5 out of the 10 hours J
12. Ek akela is shehar mein
Reminds me of my first year in the US and a dear friend who was engaged. Her fiancé had gifted her with a cd of his favorite hindi movie songs. She was never a fan of Hindi movie music. Eventually, I ended up listening to that cd more than she ever did. This song was the first song in that cd – and I will always remember her when I listen to this song.
13. Bavra man dekhne chala ek sapna (Swanand Kirkire’s version)
This is a beautiful song- one of my favs. I listened to the songs from this movie quite late as I watched this movie quite late. I remember I watched this movie alone, and was very depressed after watching it, and when this song played I almost cried.
14. I just called to say I love you…
I remember this song – my first year in the US - my roomies (equally crazy as me) and me were trying to learn this song one night– playing it line after line, pausing it, repeating after it – and we finally learn the whole song by heart by 3.00 am in the morning. The three of us were singing so loudly and excitedly, the neighbor had to knock at our door at 3:00am and had to ask us stop :D.
15. That don’t impress me much
Again reminds me of my sis and me when we were in India – we really liked this song – and Shania Twain was hot.
16. Actually any Bryan Adams or Pink Floyd songs reminds me of my college days. I really really miss the happy-go-lucky, don't have a care in the world days.
- Moi
P.S: In the first 4 songs – the “he” refers to the Mister
08 December, 2008
Gandhi!
One of my friends asked me that in the light of the current events – i.e the 26/11 Mumbai attack – would Gandhigiri work now?
I don't know – I don't know if Gandhigiri is the way to go in the age of nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction.
When Mumbai was under attack I was enraged - it was impotent rage I think - I wanted action, I wanted to see some results - I was arguing with the Mister that it is not the age of Gandhi anymore and we have to fight back and kick ass.
What exactly is the Gandhian philosophy? I think it is the opposite of dadagiri in the sense that this philosophy also uses force - but the force that it uses is a moral one to assert its point of view. Also, I personally think that Gandhiji stood for action in the face of oppression and definitely not passive contemplation.
If someone slapped one cheek, would you turn in the other one? – Is that what Gandhiji really expected of India? Is this really what he preached? If hundreds of people get killed, should we just sit back and contemplate and wait for when and where would the next attack be? I am not saying we need to go to war – but surely there must be some pre-emptive action that could be taken?
Gandhiji must surely be turning in his grave today. There are a lot of people who are dead against this man – who got us our independence. Everytime the country faces a crisis, Gandhi's name is brought up – Is this how Gandhi envisioned independent India to be? And we don't even think twice before we start blaming our fore fathers to have left us with words like non-violence, satyagraha et al as a legacy. We Indians are very very adept at passing the buck. Who better qualified to blame than the father of the nation. A lot of people are of the opinion that we are shackled by the pre-independence philosophies and that is in some way hampering our growth.
Well, I don't think so. Actually now that I think about it – I think Gandhian philosophy would work – actually maybe that's the only recourse for India.
Because the corner stones of the Gandhian philosophy are life, truth and morality.
We Indians take only the principle of non-violence as being Gandhi's principle and we attribute our regressive philosophies to that man. Everybody of us forget that he preached life, truth and above all morality in addition to ahimsa. We forget that if every Indian would lead a truthful and moral life - we would have been better equipped to handle the Mumbai attack. Yes, every problem in India is inter-related. It all comes back to wide-spread corruption - which is in itself rampant because of a struggle for existence - well, I think it comes a full circle.
Though their interpretations will or rather should change with age and time, I think that Gandhian principles will always be relevant and applicable in any age. It all depends on how ones uses them. Perspective is important.
- Moi
I don't know – I don't know if Gandhigiri is the way to go in the age of nuclear weapons and weapons of mass destruction.
When Mumbai was under attack I was enraged - it was impotent rage I think - I wanted action, I wanted to see some results - I was arguing with the Mister that it is not the age of Gandhi anymore and we have to fight back and kick ass.
What exactly is the Gandhian philosophy? I think it is the opposite of dadagiri in the sense that this philosophy also uses force - but the force that it uses is a moral one to assert its point of view. Also, I personally think that Gandhiji stood for action in the face of oppression and definitely not passive contemplation.
If someone slapped one cheek, would you turn in the other one? – Is that what Gandhiji really expected of India? Is this really what he preached? If hundreds of people get killed, should we just sit back and contemplate and wait for when and where would the next attack be? I am not saying we need to go to war – but surely there must be some pre-emptive action that could be taken?
Gandhiji must surely be turning in his grave today. There are a lot of people who are dead against this man – who got us our independence. Everytime the country faces a crisis, Gandhi's name is brought up – Is this how Gandhi envisioned independent India to be? And we don't even think twice before we start blaming our fore fathers to have left us with words like non-violence, satyagraha et al as a legacy. We Indians are very very adept at passing the buck. Who better qualified to blame than the father of the nation. A lot of people are of the opinion that we are shackled by the pre-independence philosophies and that is in some way hampering our growth.
Well, I don't think so. Actually now that I think about it – I think Gandhian philosophy would work – actually maybe that's the only recourse for India.
Because the corner stones of the Gandhian philosophy are life, truth and morality.
We Indians take only the principle of non-violence as being Gandhi's principle and we attribute our regressive philosophies to that man. Everybody of us forget that he preached life, truth and above all morality in addition to ahimsa. We forget that if every Indian would lead a truthful and moral life - we would have been better equipped to handle the Mumbai attack. Yes, every problem in India is inter-related. It all comes back to wide-spread corruption - which is in itself rampant because of a struggle for existence - well, I think it comes a full circle.
Though their interpretations will or rather should change with age and time, I think that Gandhian principles will always be relevant and applicable in any age. It all depends on how ones uses them. Perspective is important.
- Moi
04 December, 2008
Raindrops on roses...!
Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens
Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens
Brown paper packages tied up with strings
These are a few of my favorite things
Cream colored ponies and crisp apple strudels
Doorbells and sleigh bells and schnitzel with noodles
Wild geese that fly with the moon on their wings
These are a few of my favorite things
Girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes
Snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes
Silver white winters that melt into springs
These are a few of my favorite things
When the dog bites
When the bee stings
When I'm feeling sad
I simply remember my favorite things
And then I don't feel so bad
Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens
Brown paper packages tied up with strings
These are a few of my favorite things
Cream colored ponies and crisp apple strudels
Doorbells and sleigh bells and schnitzel with noodles
Wild geese that fly with the moon on their wings
These are a few of my favorite things
Girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes
Snowflakes that stay on my nose and eyelashes
Silver white winters that melt into springs
These are a few of my favorite things
When the dog bites
When the bee stings
When I'm feeling sad
I simply remember my favorite things
And then I don't feel so bad
Couldn't think of a title for this!
After the harrowing last week – the brain has attempted to achieve normalcy. A lot has happened and been happening in the last week.
It always seems to me that just when life is plodding along comfortably, something seems to go wrong – I am suddenly faced with an aberration, which is least expected. Well one can just sigh, take it in – and move on. Such is life they say!
I watched the movie “Slumdog Millionaire” last weekend. I really loved the movie. It was surprisingly brilliant and the music was really groovy (A Rehman composition of course!). Watched “Dostana” the week before – the less said about it, the better. All I can say about it is Bobby Deol is the only character in the movie who actually looks and acts gay. And last night watched the new movie “Sorry Bhai!” and I am really sorry that I wasted my time watching that movie. Its one of those wannabe art movies - tries too hard. But in the end I felt the movie was just plain ridiculous.
My mind is just rambling – and I am not even sure what I want to say in this post. The holiday season is upon us, the Christmas lights are up everywhere – but it somehow doesn’t feel as festive as every year. People are wary about the economy and altogether its not a very happy atmosphere.
Well on a positive note, I am looking forward to our Hawaii trip – actually I cannot even believe I am going – I think it has not sunk in yet. I am sure much fun will be had and will be a good break from the winter.
- Moi
P.S: One of my colleagues asked me if I believed in ghosts – I told her “No, but I am sure the ghosts believe in me”, needless to say she was nonplussed :D
Mood of the day: Lost
Song of the day: Devil in disguise
It always seems to me that just when life is plodding along comfortably, something seems to go wrong – I am suddenly faced with an aberration, which is least expected. Well one can just sigh, take it in – and move on. Such is life they say!
I watched the movie “Slumdog Millionaire” last weekend. I really loved the movie. It was surprisingly brilliant and the music was really groovy (A Rehman composition of course!). Watched “Dostana” the week before – the less said about it, the better. All I can say about it is Bobby Deol is the only character in the movie who actually looks and acts gay. And last night watched the new movie “Sorry Bhai!” and I am really sorry that I wasted my time watching that movie. Its one of those wannabe art movies - tries too hard. But in the end I felt the movie was just plain ridiculous.
My mind is just rambling – and I am not even sure what I want to say in this post. The holiday season is upon us, the Christmas lights are up everywhere – but it somehow doesn’t feel as festive as every year. People are wary about the economy and altogether its not a very happy atmosphere.
Well on a positive note, I am looking forward to our Hawaii trip – actually I cannot even believe I am going – I think it has not sunk in yet. I am sure much fun will be had and will be a good break from the winter.
- Moi
P.S: One of my colleagues asked me if I believed in ghosts – I told her “No, but I am sure the ghosts believe in me”, needless to say she was nonplussed :D
Mood of the day: Lost
Song of the day: Devil in disguise
29 November, 2008
Why ??
Shell shocked I was - when I first read the news on Wednesday morning at work. Since the past 3 days we have been watching the live news over the internet. It was like watching a movie or something - it was too mind numbing to see the terrorist kill the top Indian officials, hijack their cars. shoot at random and take the hotels under siege. It felt horrible to watch it live - it was spine chilling to see twenty something youth firing away at innocent people unflinchingly. I am just numb and speechless and hardly know what to say or feel.
My emotions range from sadness to depression to anger to hatred to pride. There is a nagging sense of loss. I think that we as a country are doing something really wrong. I don't know what - but this should not have happened. It was heart wrenching to see the saga go on and on for more than 60 hours now. I feel really sorry for the people who were a part of the gory attack that happened and all we can say is it will end soon!! Will it - really? Yes, Mumbai will be brought under control soon - but has this really ended? Again, India will adopt a holier than thou attitude and I don't know if that's what it should be doing. We cannot sit waiting for some divine intervention to happen and end this madness. I think it is high time that India takes matters in its own hands.
May all the terrorists who were behind this be killed and I wish they rot in hell. I don't think that I have ever felt so strongly about anything or anyone. But I really pray their end. Watching the Indian security forces fight relentlessly, tirelessly for such a long time fills me up with a sense of pride and also gratefulness. Hats off to all the police force, the army, NSGs, the fire fighters and all the security forces of India who put their lives in the line of fire and did such a great job in cleaning up the whole mess and finishing off the terrorists - also a tribute and salute to all the people who lost their lives in this gory mess. May their souls rest in peace! My condolences to the victims and their families who have been traumatized by this attack.
I don't want to get into what mistakes were made by India in the handling of this terror situation. And sitting here far away from the ground realities, its incredibly unfair to pass judgements. Even as I type these words rescue operations are still on at the Taj where the NSG and the Army is battling it out in Mumbai.
When I started to write this post, I intended it to be a long one - because I felt I had so much to say about the past three days - but somehow the words are eluding me - something of such big magnitude cannot be contained in a mere post. I just hope that justice will be brought!!
-Moi
P.S: Where is Mr. Raj Thakarey - does he realize that the commandos brought in from different parts of the country - they were North Indians and South Indians who are fighting it out for Mumbai - who are ready to lay down their lives so that people in Mumbai can feel safe. I am just tired - I am tired because I have been so angry and my mood has been so volatile for the past 3 days.
My emotions range from sadness to depression to anger to hatred to pride. There is a nagging sense of loss. I think that we as a country are doing something really wrong. I don't know what - but this should not have happened. It was heart wrenching to see the saga go on and on for more than 60 hours now. I feel really sorry for the people who were a part of the gory attack that happened and all we can say is it will end soon!! Will it - really? Yes, Mumbai will be brought under control soon - but has this really ended? Again, India will adopt a holier than thou attitude and I don't know if that's what it should be doing. We cannot sit waiting for some divine intervention to happen and end this madness. I think it is high time that India takes matters in its own hands.
May all the terrorists who were behind this be killed and I wish they rot in hell. I don't think that I have ever felt so strongly about anything or anyone. But I really pray their end. Watching the Indian security forces fight relentlessly, tirelessly for such a long time fills me up with a sense of pride and also gratefulness. Hats off to all the police force, the army, NSGs, the fire fighters and all the security forces of India who put their lives in the line of fire and did such a great job in cleaning up the whole mess and finishing off the terrorists - also a tribute and salute to all the people who lost their lives in this gory mess. May their souls rest in peace! My condolences to the victims and their families who have been traumatized by this attack.
I don't want to get into what mistakes were made by India in the handling of this terror situation. And sitting here far away from the ground realities, its incredibly unfair to pass judgements. Even as I type these words rescue operations are still on at the Taj where the NSG and the Army is battling it out in Mumbai.
When I started to write this post, I intended it to be a long one - because I felt I had so much to say about the past three days - but somehow the words are eluding me - something of such big magnitude cannot be contained in a mere post. I just hope that justice will be brought!!
-Moi
P.S: Where is Mr. Raj Thakarey - does he realize that the commandos brought in from different parts of the country - they were North Indians and South Indians who are fighting it out for Mumbai - who are ready to lay down their lives so that people in Mumbai can feel safe. I am just tired - I am tired because I have been so angry and my mood has been so volatile for the past 3 days.
06 November, 2008
This and that!
A black Bond – what next??
Now that Barack Obama has been elected the first African American President of the United States, everybody is swept in the Obamania. Daniel Craig has said that if the world’s most powerful human being is black, it is now time to make history with movies – with a Black Bond. Wow - what next?? Not that I would mind – because I am sure black or white 007 will be eye candy for me J
I am glad that this Obama chapter has reached its end. I will get to watch and catch up on the prime time tv – that I have missed for the last 6 months! Because the Mister watched, heard, read, ate, drank only Obama for the last 6 months so much that even my MIL who's been here for 3 months knows what Obama's schedule for the day is. Understandably the Mister is very sad - he is experiencing withdrawal symptoms!! One more thing I am glad about is I don’t have to watch Keith Olbermann every night – ‘cos God knows I would have puked if he would take another potshot at John McCain – talk about unbiased news channels.
Another high for me this weekend – Hamilton won the Formula One this year – and is the world champion. Me says – he should have won last year but yay!!!
On the last note – Rest in Peace Michael Crichton. The great writer passed away yesterday. The dinosaur man gave us many great science fictions.
- Moi
Now that Barack Obama has been elected the first African American President of the United States, everybody is swept in the Obamania. Daniel Craig has said that if the world’s most powerful human being is black, it is now time to make history with movies – with a Black Bond. Wow - what next?? Not that I would mind – because I am sure black or white 007 will be eye candy for me J
I am glad that this Obama chapter has reached its end. I will get to watch and catch up on the prime time tv – that I have missed for the last 6 months! Because the Mister watched, heard, read, ate, drank only Obama for the last 6 months so much that even my MIL who's been here for 3 months knows what Obama's schedule for the day is. Understandably the Mister is very sad - he is experiencing withdrawal symptoms!! One more thing I am glad about is I don’t have to watch Keith Olbermann every night – ‘cos God knows I would have puked if he would take another potshot at John McCain – talk about unbiased news channels.
Another high for me this weekend – Hamilton won the Formula One this year – and is the world champion. Me says – he should have won last year but yay!!!
On the last note – Rest in Peace Michael Crichton. The great writer passed away yesterday. The dinosaur man gave us many great science fictions.
- Moi
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