Dandiya - And the Stories Continue...

In less than 24 hours I'll be part of a group performing Dandiya and Garba for the office, for the first time in my life. Hopefully it's not the last. worried of forgetting my steps and getting into a mess. worried that my partner may forget her steps. Already got blisters on my feet from the all the practice. But heart is willing and hey I am having fun. Doing something I would do, though not normally. But what the heck. Life's all about taking the plunge and taking the risks. So tomorrow I am going to go out there and enjoy myself. Who care if I make mistake...I had the guts to go up there and dance in the first place :)

Dandiya

I have learnt Salsa... Have Jiving in my blood...Played Dandiya a couple of times...Never before have I been part of a group performing any of these dance forms :)

But all that's going to change this Friday night when for the first time I'll be performing Dandiya/Garba as a part of a group for the office. Really how the final product going to look like???

Have played Dandiya a couple of times before and know a bit of Garba :) Been practicing a lot...at least or the last of couple of days. Now just hoping everything falls in place properly... But no one falls :)

So let see what we can do on the 19th of October :)

The World Through the Pages of a Book

For a person who reads a lot, very often I find myself transported in to the world created within the pages of a book. Be it Laila and Mariam's war torn Afghanistan or the kite flying competition in the Kite Runner. Whether it's Lyra's Oxford or Harry's Hogwarts or even Frodo's Shire. And yes even the magical world of Narnia with the mighty Aslan.

Very often you find yourself on a journey with Bilbo Baggins or Frodo and Sam in their quest to destroy the one ring. Not forgetting Harry, Hermione and Ron's quest to find and destroy Voldemort's Hocrux. You travel through different universes with Lyra and Will, even cutting through the fabric of time. You are transported to era when you were not even born. You travel through life with Amir and Gogol. Through cities and places, that you haven't been to and may never go to.

But not all these worlds are magical and enchanted. There is pain and suffering in many of these of world. Invariably there is loss and death. Tragedy and grieving. Heinous events like rape, murder, death, massacre, savagery and war.

You live in the world created within each page. You share the character's sorrow and pain, joys and frustration.

Feelings & Emotions

Feelings & Emotions are something that everyone goes through. Whether it's being happy, elated, excited to being sad, depressed, scared. There whole gamut of these things that one experiences everyday. But at times emotions makes you feel weird and contradictory things. On a Friday when you are heading home you are all excited about it. However once your home, and you have to confront all the idiotic issues, you wish you were back at work. Again when your back at work, after the weekend, you start having the Returning back home blues, along with the Monday morning blues. You go through all these contradictory feelings.

There are times when you are surrounded with friends and all of a sudden you feel lonely and depressed and you just want to be alone. The idea of hanging about with friends is to get rid of these emotions and feelings. But all of the sudden all you want is to be alone. And you actually can't recollect what triggered this reaction, when you asked for an explanation from irritated friends.

Then when you meet up with someone. You go to the trouble of messaging the person, trying to co-ordinate everything, even willing to travel. And all this person does is say they are lazy and don't like travelling. They also don't reply to messages promptly or pick up your calls. All this leaves you irritated, fuming, angry, and you swear you will never call them again. But the next thing you know you are calling up this person, because you really want to.

Sometime I really wonder what my emotion & feelings get me to do :(

Ratatouille

A rat in the kitchen is something obviously you don't want to see and find in your own house. A kitchen is not a place for a rat (according to us) . And can be both quite treacherous as well as tempting for the little rodent. But what if this rat has a knack for making exquisite culinary delight? A rat that's not interested in stealing, but rather inclined towards herbs and spices, to Rose Mary and Saffron. What if you came to know that it was a rat that prepared the delicious meal you just had? Doesn't sound too appetizing.


Well then let me introduce you to Remy, the four legged rodent, who actually prefers walking on two as he doesn't like tasting his feet in his food. Who has taste for the gourmet meal and will simply not eat garbage. Someone who can tell spices from each other (something that not even I can do). Someone who lives in Paris and dreams of being a chef. Someone who adorably cute and reminded me of doggie when he made those cute innocent faces.

Ratatouille is the story of Remy and his dream of being a chef. Helping a hapless Linguini along the way, collaborating with him to make splendid dishes (which are finest moments), as well as his true inheritance. Also winning over food critic Anton Ego (marvelously voiced by Peter O'Toole) who was responsible for the restaurant loosing it's credibility. All this aided by the great chef Gusteau, a figment of Remy's imagination and the line "Anyone can Cook".

Never in the million year would I thought that I would find a rat in the kitchen so appealing. But every dish, every ingredient, comes to life. Even when Remy tasting two things the firework representing what the ingredient brings you is absolutely delightful. Sitting in the audience you taste, smell and want what Remy cooks up.

There are moment where you'll simply go aww or just cheer Remy. But there moments that will also creep you out especially when you see the entire rat colony. But then it when the entire rat colony that helps Remy and in turn Linguini in the climax that makes the whole movie great and also gives the movie it's finest moment.

The finale is absolutely a delight with Remy not only managing to win over Anton Ego but at the same time make the food critic remember his mother's preparation. Something that I long for.

Coming out of the theater I couldn't help but have the a broad of smile on face. Thoroughly entertained by cute, squeaky rat. I guess that's what I go to the movies for. Definitely recommend the movie. So till then Bon Apetit.

Marriage & Relationships

There is one question, we eligible Bachelors and Spinsters, have to answer at every wedding. Whenever you go to hello some family friend or an elderly aunties, we can't help but have this question be put to us. "So when are you inviting us to yours?" There a part of me that wants to put the same questions to them during a funeral.

At times, hearing this question makes you wonder whether we are born just to get married and invite all these aunties and friends to the celebration? Is marriage a necessary part of life? What exactly do we look for in a marriage? Time and again we are reminded that man is a social animal. But then does marriage forms a part of this socialising? Is marriage an important part of life?

We seek companionship in life. As a person I know I like being around friends and people I love and care about. Loneliness can be a very treacherous friend, often pushing you down the depths of despair and depression. Often eating you up.

Often we seek out people who could bear witness to our lives. A person to love and care. Someone to call our own, but not own. Being in love can be quite an exhilarating feeling. But how long will this feeling last? What happens when the magic runs out? Is there really a happily ever after?

I remember mentioning this in my toast for my parent's silver wedding anniversary that being together for 28 years (that's when we managed to celebrate their silver anniversary) was quite an achievement. Imagine loving and caring for the same person all these year is quite an inspiration. But do I feel inspired by this is another question.

I know relationship and being in love is somewhat a part of life. Whether its loving someone of the opposite sex or the same sex. But then how do we know we know we are ready for long-term relationship? I know I have failed miserably on these grounds in the past. I know of friends and family member who don't feel the need of being marriage and prefer staying single and drawing happiness from their single hood. They draw happiness and love from the people around them.

Sometime I wonder if I will ever be ready for a relationship, let alone marriage. I know there are times in a relationship when you can feel really great about it and there are time you can feel totally uncomfortable about it. I guess that's part of life. I sometime wonder whether I will ever be comfortable being myself.

There is so many question and no answer and solution in sight. Is there really any solution for these question?. Anyway till then I'll be a Bachelor Boy and that's the way I'll stay. :)

Celebrating 60 Years Of Independence

Everyone has their own unique way of celebrating India's Independence. Some watch the parade on TV, some actually go to places that have parades. Others would have to go to school or college for the flag hoisting ceremony (this is if your a student or a teacher or a professor). Still others go to church (as it is also the feast of the Assumption of Our Lady) and follow that with the flag hoisting ceremony at the Parish's school. Well this time decided to do something different. It's been a month since I've been in Pune and so wanting to visit various forts that formed a major part of the Maratha history. Decided to trek and so formulated a sort of plan with my colleague and friend Rahul, to trek to Torna.

Even though I've trekked before, a numerous amount of time when I was in boarding school. And I have been to forts like Lohgad and Raigad. Nothing in this world could have prepared me for this trek. The first problem was getting to the place. There was problem trying to pronounce the Base village (which was Valhe, by the way). This raised a bigger problem trying to find a bus that went there as we had one great difficulty pronouncing the village name. Somehow we did managed to get there. The initial part of the trek seem all nice and fun. Passing fields and cattle and little streams, getting your feet wet in the cool water. Taking pictures of the scenery. At all times adrenaline pumping at the sight of the fort covered by clouds.

But then that was the good part. Our problem was trying to decipher which path to follow (as no one thought it would be wise enough to put signs to point the right directions). Then there was problem getting lost and meeting people who were lost themselves (however never thinking of sticking with them so that all could find the proper path together). Climbing what looked like path of a small stream, then trying to scale upward holding on to grasses and trees. Snapping branches, slipping down loose mud and rocks. The rain not making our task any easier. Getting totally muddy, totally dirty (which actually was least of worries). Hanging on to grass and branches, if they could take our weight, our determination to reach the top almost diminishing with every slide we were taking. There a part of me that thought that I would end there or would need someone to come and rescue me. And then I would put my story in the Reader's Digest under the true incident section. Anyway screaming at people for direction and meeting another pair who were as lost as us, we finally found what we could call proper path, with the occasional steps. Somehow we managed to make it to the top.

Breathless, tired, thirsty, hungry, dirty, we finally made it to the top. Gave a huge yell reaching the main gate. Felt like I just conquered my Everest. Remarkably managed to get a network on cell up on that mountain. Wished my Mumma, Grandpa, and Godma, and also a good friend of mine, wishing them from over 3000 feet. It was really emotional wishing them as there was part of which only recently thought I would have never hear their voice again.

Now the other daunting task was reaching the base again. Since we didn't have the energy and the mist didn't help make thing clearer, we decided to come down with another group. Trust me the trip getting down was obviously not at all easy. Had a whole lot of scare getting down slipper rocks. Trying to get foothold, holding on to the pipe railing (this became a dangerous when there were gaps between railing). Anyhow made it down, slipping and sliding, soiling clothes, footwear and bag in the process. Pitying the poor knees that was taking all the body weight. Finally getting down and washing ourselves in the cool, flowing water. Giving a thought of those who may have gotten lost among the trees in the mountain.

Reaching down, realizing how lucky we were to make it to the top safely. All the dangers we had put ourselves into. The adventure that we had, the scare of lives that we had. Finally glad to live to see a new day. Moreover grateful for the experience, for the adventure, for the story that we now have to tell the generations to come. Looking forward to another trek :)

Chak De India

Since of late it become a very rare that I go for a film, due to a lack of proper company. And seldom do I go to watch a Hindi film (though the last one was quite recent, Life in a Metro). Well as I've written in my previous blog I decided to go for a movie all by myself. It's not like was desperate to watch a movie. It was just that I was feeling lonely, bored, and didn't want to spend my Sunday evening holed up in my apartment by myself reading The Namesake (since I had come to the part where the character Ashoke passes away, which in turn reminded me of my own dad passing away), or reading some health magazine. So after my friend Ashutosh left, decided I just go over and try and catch Simpson the Movie. However since there was no show for Simpson and was in no mood to watch Rush Hour 3 decided to catch a 9:45 show of Chak De India.

One thing for sure I am neither a great fan of Hindi cinema and definitely not a fan of Shah Rukh Khan. What drew me towards the movie was the reviews of the movie that I had read earlier in the morning, and the intriguing thought of watching a sport based film on a sport that hasn't gotten it's due, in spite being the national sport, and female team that's never given prominence. So anyway went for the movie which had a 15 minute delay, which meant that the movie would end well beyond midnight and I would have to find a way of trying to get back home all by myself. All this time questioning whether it was right way of spending time and money. I have seen a number of sport based movies like Lagaan, Angels in the Outfield, Jerry McGuire (which did have sport theme to it), and Bring it On (even though this is about cheer leaders). So I had a good idea of what to expect. Moreover I did play the game when I was in the boarding school.

Well the movie began with Mr. Khan been shown made as an outcast for missing a crucial penalty against none other than Pakistan (wonder what did the Italian do to Roberto Baggio for missing that crucial peanlty at the world cup). Anyway things pick up a bit when each of the girls are introduced, each coming from various states including Jharkhand. You have the typical cat fights and the Diva attitudes, quarrels and squabbles. And between all this you have a committee who feels like Indian women should not be running around running in their knickers, but should be holding a rolling pin instead of a hockey stick. There are characters that you immediately fall in love with like the dimmunitive, fire cracker Komal from Harayana, the very manly hot headed Punjaban (can't remember her name), and the two girls from Jharkhand who couldn't speak English, let alone understand Hindi. Then there was the most senior player Kunjan (as we are reminded repeatedly throughout the movie) who you want to whack with her hockey stick because of her attitude that is typical of a senior player in any sport. Well there is also Vidya, the married team captain and it's goalie and Preeti, who is engaged to the Indian cricket team's vice captain, who doesn't think much of the sport (which pretty typical of our fatted, over payed Indian cricketers). There are other characters that aren't given much scope.

Well the first half is how the girls are learning to gel with each other and to play the game for the country and rather than individually. A sought of high point in this half is the girls getting into a brawl with guys at McDonald for eve teasing one of the fellow players. This even dominates the match of the sexes against their male counterpart in order to decide whether the girls get to go abroad for the world championship.

The second half is where the things actually pick up when they actually play at the championship. Initially totally un-co-ordinated and loosing miserably, but slowly and steadily getting their act together. Then you also have the friction between Preeti and Komal. But finally, as you know they will iron out their differences. Then there is also Kunjan trying to seduce the coach with regards to becoming the captain. But all is well that ends well. The part where Preeti equalises in the dying minutes thanks to Komal is pretty good. During the penalty shootout you can feel the anguish when the team misses the goal or the esctacy when Komal, Kunjan, and the Mizoram player convert their penalties. But the final goal that Vidya saves is probably the most tense moment in the movie. The funny thing is that you know what is going to happen, but even then when it happens all you want to do is cheer for the team and clap (which I did along with the others in the hall).

When I left the movie hall after the movie got over, well beyond midnight, didn't mind walking all by myself back home, in the cold night, as I just enjoyed a good Adrenaline pumping movie. Time and money well spent :)

Crossing Bridges

Yesterday went for a movie by myself. On the way I actually need to cross a bridge that connects Koregaon Park (i.e. where I stay) and Kalayani Nagar (where the theater is). Well the movie got over around one o'clock in the night and since I am looking at saving cash decided to walk home in the dead silent night. While crossing the bridge, it made me recollect about the number of bridges that we have crossed in life. The many times we have debated with ourselves whether it is proper in crossing the bridge and moving on to the other side. Making decision that we may wonder if were right. Standing in the centre of the bridge, looking down at the water flowing under it rapidly, enjoying the breeze against my face, not wanting to go on to the other side. Wanted to just stand there and look at the water and somehow find peace with myself. It feels the same way in life where cometo bridges where we just want to stand there and maybe enjoy the moment, not sure whether going to the other side is the right decision, or whether I should just turn back.

But anyway I did needed to get back home, to my bed, for some sleep, though I didn't want to move from the centre of the bridge. Because it's during this solitude I can ponder what's gone by, if what I've done is right or wrong?? Or even scold myself for being foolish. Anyway did cross this bridge. I know there will be a number of bridges that I would need to cross. Some I will and some I will continue to wonder if I need to cross. And some I may just turn back and return. but I know till then I will continue to live my life pondering whether what I've done is right or wrong.

Dance Session

The last time I spoke about attending the kickboxing session at my gym. Well yesterday went for the dance session. Well this was typical Bollywood dance with it's typical jathkas and miming and dancing to the lyrics of the song. I do consider myself as quite a competent dancer. Know how to jive since a kid (something that I pride as being in my blood). Have taken Salsa classes and made it through the beginners and improvers level (before giving up). Even featured in a documentary for a Friend about Salsa in Mumbai. Bot Bollywood dancing proved a whole different ball game altogether.

Firstly there were three different guys instructing on songs that they previously worked on. So it was trying to understand the steps, playing catch up. The steps that they were doing were pretty quick and if you couldn't do them in the same way they were doing, they looked very awkward. Though these guys made it look pretty neat, trust me it wasn't that easy. Felt like a total spaz. Felt like I had two left feet. And trust me I haven't felt like that since Kaytee (my Salsa Guru) taught us step involving the open break.

What surprised me the most is that in spite all the awkwardness and the two left feet, I did enjoy the session. Though didn't like the songs they were using (Since they were playing Hindi film music and me used to listening to English music), started enjoying the music. Lasted the entire session and at the same time managed to sweat it out, which actually was the main aim. :)

Kick Boxing @ Gym

At the gym where I workout there are session like Bollywood Dancing, Kickboxing session that members can attend. I have seen many people take these sessions. Since these session takes place behind glass walls you can see what happening inside. It at times seems like great fun and at times awkward if the people are not getting what needs to be done, especially the dancing session.

Well since I was supposed to my cardio and abs thought why not give the kickboxing session a try, as it will serve as a good cardio session too. Well it was actually pretty good. Initially felt odd and awkward, especially when doing high kick, keeping timing, and coordination. Learnt, or I should say, confirmed that I was directionally impaired. Kept kicking on the wrong side. As a result had to 10 dips, which actually I didn't mind. During the stretching session, where you had spread your feet at least 3 feet, had problems as my shoes weren't providing me the proper grip. So there was always a scare of loosing balance or having a Rodman split. though painful had a good stretch. Also what enjoyed was the combination of kicking and punching (whenever I got the sequence properly) and also the abs session.

It did feel odd when you are making mistake and you can see people from outside looking at you. But in the end it was fun. And yes looking forward to next Tuesday's session.

Dance and Music

You must surely across moments when you are listening to music when you suddenly fell like letting go of yourself and drowning in the music. Drowning in the beats and lyrics. Your feet tapping the rhythm. Slowly you letting go and dancing to the rhythm, steps that may seem funny to someone but at that moment seems graceful and freedom for you. Moving your body to the rhythm. doing steps you've may have learnt...to a specific timing...1, 2, 3 and 5, 6, 7...or just moving your body, or just moving along something you've seen. Then there is the singing along, imagining you're the one singing the song...miming for the time being. Playing the air guitar or the drums or the piano. Totally enjoying the music...but moreover losing yourself to the moment...enjoying. Being the rock star, Fred Astaire that you are.

Are we comfortable in our skin?

One thing over the years I have observed, including myself, we meet people and interact with them. We smile, we chat, exchange pleasantry, occasionally gossip and bitch. We go to social gatherings and work. We do things and make choices in life based on what's best for us...what best for us to look nice to other. We try to maintain an external appearance, appeal and do so many things not because they are right, but because we think other things its right. This happens most of the times but not always. We try to appeal and gain approval of people.

As I said I put myself as one of these people. What I wonder is am I comfortable being what I am actually? Am I comfortable being myself? am I superfluous? I know every time I make a choice or take a decision I wonder what would be the consequences on others as well as myself. Though my choices and my decision are mine, but somehow they seems to put everyone in it.

Some time I wonder am I living my own life or am I living a life that's been trying to appeal others? Am I being true to myself? Or am I uncomfortable being me? Am I comfortable being in my own skin?

Falling Sick and Friends

Falling ill is never a good thing. Falling ill and being by yourself is even worse. But falling ill, being alone, and not knowing what to do and not having any medication is even more scarier. That's what happened to me the other day. And visiting the toilet over ten times can really take its toll on you. Trust me it's a feeling that you don't want to go through ever. Unfortunately not all of us has been blessed with the perfect health.

Well that's why you have friends for. My friend Vivek took a leave from office and came over to take care of me. Even got prescription from his dad saving me the trouble of going to the doctor and then was there near me if I need anything. Another friend Abhijeet came over made kichdi and kept company with me till Vivek came. He managed to in a way to brighten up a painful day. And finally there was my friend Ashutosh who came over after office with fruits and vegetables in the evening after work and cooked. At the same time he was telling me what to have in order to get all the proteins, minerals, and vitamins that I needed to get over my weakness. and then not forgetting Hrishi who asked me if I wanted him to come over home after he checked his mails at work.

Well I know I would have been in a bad state if it weren't for friends. Well I guess that's why they say..."That's what Friends are for".

Fantasy Epics

For the past couple of years (make that seven years to be exact), I have been reading some really interesting and great fantasy epics. I've read the J. R. R. Tolkein's Lord of the Ring trilogy, C. S. Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia, and almost done reading Philip Pullman's Dark Material. And yes I would definitely add J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter to these books. However I would not call Harry Potter an epic in the true sense. But it is sure one of the better fantasy books that are currently out.

I guess movies is what got me reading all these books. I remember after watching the Fellowship of the Ring in the theater I so eagerly wanted to know what happens to Frodo and the ring that it drove me o purchase the book and find out. And I was sure wasn't disappointed. For like the movie the book is highly entertaining (however there are place where the book does drag). Nevertheless I rate this as one of the best books I've read.

Well as for the Chronicle of Narnia I guess what got me reading this book was the fact that though I hadn't watched the movie as yet and was curious to read a book by one of the contemporaries of Tolkien. Also the curiosity about the Christian allegory in the lion Aslan.

Well recently began to read Philip Pullman's Dark Material out of curiosity to learn about the movie that will star one of my favourite female actor Nicole Kidman. Currently finishing the Amber Spyglass and I must say I've not been disappointed.

That brings us to J. K. Rowling and her boy wizard Harry Potter. I must admit that I started reading the series from the third book, The Prisoner of Azakaban, after borrowing the book from friend's sister. But then got hooked on the series and have purchased each and every book and also movie CD anad DVD since then. Recently completed reading the final book. And should say she more than made up for the mediocre (according to me) Half Blood Prince. More action, better plot line, a whole lot of revelation. But in a way you can say no main characters from Harry's side (you know what I mean) dies. I guess she gave her fans what they wanted, and boy did she raked in the mullah in the bargain. However still to watch the current film.

Well from all these books that I've read if I would have to pick up a favourite I would definitely pick up the Lord of the Rings. There is something really great the way Tolkien created his character and in the process created a whole new world (Middle Earth), and the way he kept the reader engrossed through the three books. What's more astonishing is the creation a whole new language in Elven , for the book. Next I would say Philip Pullman's Dark Material. As the name suggested the topic in a way is pretty dark. On first reading the Northern Lights I realised that the book had an anti-church theme to it, and this flowed through the remaining books, that is the Subtle Knife and the Amber Spyglass. But then you got read the book for its content and the literature and not putting your faith in between. If going by all the controversies the Da Vin Code raised I wonder what it would be when the Dark Materials are adapted to movies. Well next is the obvious Harry Potter. For almost seven years I've read about Harry and his friends Ron and Hermoine and their battle with the dark lord Lord Voldemort. The books were definitely interesting, though I felt for two books that Rowling may have lost her charm, but then she redeemed herself with the last book. Well finally comes the C. S. Lewis' chronicle of Narnia. It's not like that I didn't like the look. May major bone of contention is that not all the books are interesting and on the whole the book is not as interesting as the above mentioned ones. Found the book a bit childish. But on the whole not a bad book.

Well these are sorely my views of the books and is not applicable to anyone who reads any of these epics. I know in future the list is definitely going to expand to newer books.

Pune

It's been almost three weeks since I've shifted from Mumbai to Pune. It's definitely not a cultural shock or any type of shock for me. Coming from a big metropolitan city like Mumbai to a relatively smaller city like Pune may take sometime for a person to adjust. For someone who is used to the fast paced life of Mumbai. It's not that Pune life is slow, but it's not as fast as compared to what I'm used to in Mumbai. Thankfully it's not as laid back as I felt when I was visiting cousin in Hyderabad/Secundrabad.

But there are things that really perplexes you. Being one of the fastest growing city in the country (not sure in the world), and having some of the well known IT firms and elearning company, the city's infrastructure is pretty bad. In Mumbai it's better to use public mode of transportation like the trains and buses if you don't want to get caught up in traffic jams and get to place on time. But in Pune that's absent. There are buses but they seem so ancient, even more ancient than the state transportation buses. It's pretty scary to travel in any of them. And more over you can't exactly read the bus number or where the bus is going, the destination is written in Marathi so it's going to take time for someone like me who is not proficient in the language to read it (I pity the ones that don't know the language). Moreover the roads are not very good here and not properly lit. So at night I wonder whether if I should concentrate at looking below at the road to avoid stepping into ditches and muck, or should I look out for the on coming traffic. It's not like Mumbai road's are any better. I think they have the most number and biggest potholes in the world. But moreover people in Pune seem to lack traffic sense. They don't honk their horn to ask you to get out of the way. And if they need to take a turn at the signal, instead of being in the lane nearest to the turn, they expect to turn from middle of the road. Moreover there are instances of people driving on the other side of the divider. So you need to lookout for them when you are crossing, especially when you are crossing the road.

I guess any Puneite reading this would surely argue with me that I am only looking at the bad points. Hmmmm, there are loads of things I know I can appreciate about this city. The most important thing being is that the cost of living (as I've been told, though not fully experienced) is pretty low as compared to Mumbai. Though people may complain about the pollution level in Pune I don't think it's as high as that in Mumbai. They would need to come to Andheri, especially the Andheri-Kurla stretch and MIDC. I know I have a pleasant walk every morning coming to work. It's doesn't even matter of the walk is around a 30 minutes walk, as long as I don't sweat. There is whole lot of greenery that I enjoy everyday during my walk to work as well as when having lunch from my canteen on the terrace of the office. It's a beautiful site as there are not many sky rises and you can see the hills and the trees and the beautiful skies. But what I like of Pune is that there is something about the city, that I can't exactly put in words. There is this charm about the city. It's like an old world meeting the new world (much like walking through Fort Mumbai minus the traffic and commotion of the people). And yes there a whole interesting place that you can visit. Historical forts to trek to and many other place to visit. This whole thing makes Pune pretty interesting. And not forgetting Kayani's, famous for its biscuits and stuff.

Well this weekend is going be the first weekend that I am not going anywhere out of Pune. So surely going to take the time to familiarise myself with the city, or at least the area where I stay. Who knows over time my view of the city would change, for the better or the worst.

Books that I've Been Reading

Well I know it's been quite a while since I've last blogged...Well the usual excuse not able to access the site and shifted to a new location. Anyway it's back to blogging again.

Well been reading three interesting and un-put-downable books. Firstly been reading Philip Pullman's Dark Material Trilogy, right now on the Amber Spyglass. The books interesting as I've been following the Lyra and Will through the previous books (Northern Light/Golden Compass and Subtle Knife). Had to put the book on hold as couldn't resist starting the 7th final installment of J.K. Rowling's famous boy wizard, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows and can't seem to put the book (or close the window in case of the eBook). Worth the wait, the hype, and the hoopla that surrounded it. Well finally been reading the Systematic Design of Instruction by Walter Dick, Lou Carey, and James O. Carey. Initially couldn't get myself to read it. but somehow today the book seems pretty knowledgeable and fascinating. And this coming from a person who would normally avoid such books...so this quite interesting.

Three very different books. Two fiction and one knowledge based. But all very interesting and helpful (whether to pass time or improve your working knowledge).

Get Off Your Cross

We Christians have an habit of asociating all our troubles and trials in life to our very own cross that we have to carry and whose burden we have to bear. Be it an abusive spouse, or a spouse with a drinking problem, or children who have gone astray, or whatever problems and difficulties that we have to face in life, all of these are associated to the cross that we have to carry around. You have a number of people reminding you about this.

But then are going to live with these crosses forever, carrying them around with wherever we go in life???? Are we going to suffer on our crosses for eternity??? Aren't we not going to something??? Shouldn't we be finding a solutions for all our problems or ways to face the trials and tribulations that life throws at us.

The idea should not be about carrying our crosses, it should be that we should challenge the cross that we bear. Find a solution that could put an end, or at least strength to face it. We all have crosses to carry in life, but cannot go around carrying them forever. We shouldn't be hanging from our Christ, but get of it.

Partition: Then & Now

Sometimes you wonder what was the outcome of an event?? Was the outcome of the event what was expected??? I've benn reading The Train to Pakistan by Kushwant Singh, which shows how the life of a little village, Mano Majra, was changed with the appearance of a train full of dead Sikhs from Lahore. Reading the book makes you wonder that was this what was intended when the country partitioned? Reading (and seeing the images) of all the looting, killing, raping, plundering, makes you wonder what were the benefits of partition. The lives of thousands were changed forever. They lost everything, their livelihood, their property, their families and even their lives. And why??? Bescause some people tried to incite the situation by giving a communal outlook. An eye for an eye, kill two or every person killed, rape and dishonour woman, all this does makes you sick. Your blood even boils when you read about people who took advantage of the situation and incited the mob to go on a killing spree. The Partition will always be a blot on both the countries' history, a barberic act that was committed.

The partition occurred in 1947, but you wonder if the situation has changed in present time??? There is still communal tension between these communities. This was seen in the Babri Masjid demolotion and the riots that occured after it and not forgeting the Mumbai blasts and the riots in Godra. Still thousands of people loose their lives, properties and woman their honour. And why does this happens because we still have people who incite people to riots. They are now politician and no longer some ordinary person, politician with a huge clout, who can get away with racial comments and even murder. They use their gathering to call for chasing a particular community from the country and bringing them to their knees. And not to forget attacking gathering of other communities. They use their gathering and newspapers to spread their propaganda. And what do we do, we elect them back to power.

Sometimes I wonder how many people more have to loose their lives, livelihood, properties, families and woman their honour, before we take some action against them???

Smaller Gestures

Today as I left my place for work, a small child, probably a year old, came running up to me and said "Uncle flower", placing a small flower that she may have plucked from the garden, in my hand. I couldn't help but smile and marvel at this gesture of this child. Not only did this child suceed in bringing a smile on my face, but it brightened up what could be decribed as a normal, mundane and sleepy morning. I know the flower may not make it through the day, leave alone a couple of hours, but this gesture is going to be embedded in my mind for eternity.I will always remember this small but mighty gesture of this child who brightened my day with a little flower.

My Own Little Miss Sunshine Road trip

I had my own Little Miss Sunshine Raod trip to Goa and back, a week ago (depending when you read this blog). Felt like little Olive getting a call for something I eagerly wanted, something that would change the course of life and shake it from all its mundane and monotonous ways. Had my own little adventure to get there. Instead of a van there was a Maruti Zen. Instead of an entire dysfunctional family trying to get you to your destined event, there was my elder sister, with her friend and her friend's brother. Preparing you for what could happen at the event. There were adventures on the way. Bright light of passing vehicles that seem to blind the poor driver (my sis for sometime), wrong turns landing us in wrong locations (again her), a badly shredded flat tyres, travelling through the ghats by night, never ending road signs that kept increasing kilometers as travelled on and not forgetting the scare of reveller of the carnival happening at the time. But then there were the scenic roads and the beauty of nature. The beauty of watching a sunrise from behind the mountains. The road that dipped and climbed and zig zagged and went round and round hills and Ghats. Tree forming tunnel over the roads. And not forgetting the tea stops along the way. Reading road signs and laughing at some funny messages. The excitement of changing a flat. And not forgetting the beauty and the old world charm of Goa and the cuisine (however couldn't have non-veg as it was the season of Lent). Going for a Saturday Bazaar (read flea market) full of foreigners buying what you could only term as junk. Sipping on their beers and drinks, and dancing to a live band (However couldn't understand what the band was singing). However the purpose why we travelled over 382 Kms to Goa was not successful. But did learn a lot about the thing I we gone there for.

Definitely never going to forget this short but interesting road trip. My own Little Sunshine adventure.

In Time of Trouble

They say when you are down and depressed, one of the way of coping with such situations is to distract your mind. Look at the positives of life instead of concentrating on the negatives. These days have been pretty harrowing and scary and downright depressive. So was just thinking of what could get my spirits up, when all i can feel is the lows of life? What could prop me up and help me through time.

There are number of hymns and songs that could be my saviour, my rope in getting over bad time.

For example, the following hymn:

When upon life bellows's you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessing name them one by one,
And you will discover what the LORD has done.

or this one,

Give them all, give them all to Jesus,
Shattered dream, wounded hearts, broken toys,
And he'll turn your sorrow into joy.

Or my favourite from the Sound of Music

When the dog bites, when the be stings,
When my salary is taxed (Note the modification)
I simply remember my favourite things,
And then I don't feel so bad.

School Anthems

There is always a sense of pride when you sing any anthem. Be it the national anthem, the school anthem or your love anthem.

There was point in my life when I used to go to Antonio De'souza High School, Byculla, when I used to be envious about my sisters cause they used to have a school anthem and they used to sing it, or try to remember it when she met with friends.

There is a sense of pride and belonging when you sing your school anthem. Finally did the get the pleasure of having a school anthem when I changed school to Don Bosco, Lonavla. It was always fun to sing it after assemblies, sports day, annual days, accompanied by a guitar or the keyboard or even the whole band. Each and every word made you feel that you belonged to a great institution.

Let's join in a chorus,
To sing to the glory,
The glory of Don Bosco Lonavla,
With one heart, and voice,
We sing never seizing,
The Glory of Don Bosco Lonavla.

Virtuous, Incendese, Vireous,
Let our motto be,
Because we believe,
That virtues kindle strength,
This is good for you and me.

Don Bosco we love and cherish,
Be our father and helps us on our way,
Be our guide we want to be like you,
We your sons and daughters Pray Today.

Why do I even bother polishing my shoes???

Sometimes I wonder why the hell I even bother polishing my shoes. When you get into a crowded local at peak hours, your feet is so stamped that you may even forget the what the colour of your shoes were. Not forget the sore toes.

I wonder why do I bother ironing my clothes. Its' bound to get crumpled in the train. What do you expect when you are packed in a compartment. And to top it all the heat and sweat. Once you get off the train i am sure your shirt would resemble Mandakini's wet saree from Ram Tere Gang Malee. you'd be showing of your assets (or liabilities if you aren't in shape).

Trekking to Raigad—The Planning Stage

Couple of days ago a friend of mine showed me the picture she taken on her trip to the Raigad fort. These pictures actually succeeded in awakening the sleeping trekker in me.

I have started gathering info about the place. Planning to make the trek. So watch out for this space about whether I will actually go on the trek. But as of now the enthuasism is pretty high. So surely going to do it :)

PDA

The other day while travelling back home, saw this Muslim couple in the bus (she was wearing a borqua type scarf on her head). The guy had his hand around her and planted a sweet little kiss on her cheek. She in return almost did the same but shied away. Seeing this PDA really both a smile to my face. I thought only Catholics were bold in enough to show affection towards each other in public. It was really nice to see this couple get all romantic in a public transport, which was really packed :)

How Fair is Life????

Everyday we look around and wonder why are we who we are and not someone else???? Why do we have to go through all the trials and tribulations of life??? Why do we have to struggle, budget the way we live, our expensive??? Why do we have to think 10 times before going on trips??? And then you look around and see affluent people. People who appear to have no cares in life, wearing expensive clothes and accessories, riding in expensive cars or bikes. And then you wonder why weren't you born in their place??? You wonder why is there so much difference in life??? You complain and wonder how fair has life been to you.

But then we complain and complain. But do these complains do anything to improve the situation???? It better to stop complaining and stop questioning life about it's fairness. What you need to do is go on living, working, struggling and at the same time striving to get to the goals that we want to achieve. Striving to fulfil our dreams. In that way Life would be more of a pleasant journey than a stressful one.

A few after thoughts

Well there are few more things I would love to add to my previous blog. Somethings that I know I have forgotten and and that are important. So here we go again...

Well I can be very impatient, but the irony is that I will wait for long to get things done or wait for somone. I get very irritated and angry very quickly, and will say and do things I know will regret. I know I've said goodbye to friends on a very irrational thought, but then want them back, because I can't bear to loose them and regret what I've said after wards. There are times I know that my actions have hurt a few but I really don't mean it. I know I can be really irritating at times.

If I love a person I love them with all my heart. But I need my space. I hate people taking advantage of me, which so often happens. I hate being taken for granted and I will not take someone for granted. Hate people bossing over me, but unfortunately get bossed over a lot.

Sometime I feel that even though people say they know me, but I don't think they really do.

"And I don't want the world to see me,
Cause I don't think that they'd understand,
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am"

ME

Just trying to put down something thats been troubling my head for the couple of days, or I should be saying the past couple of months. I hate it when people have the wron perception of me. Just wanted to put down what I feel I am. I hate writing the About Me fields in website becuse there soo much about me that it the space provided may not only br insufficient, but also I don't there soo much to that i may not even remember all of it.

There is one thing about me, I am by nature a very friendly person, Ilove to make friends and can make firends easily and consider people as friends very quickly, even though I may be bit shy at first. I love to talk to people and can start chatting with everyone I know, or I want to know. As a person I know I am pretty approachable and I really don't put any barrier in front of me.

I make friends very quickly, but have only a few whom I actually call my Best Friend. I will go to any length to help my friends or for that matter anyone whom I know. To make their lives better and help them in any way I can. I can see my friends hurt or can't see anyone hurting them. I care for them alot.

I am not an attention seeker, but I dont' like being ignored. Like any other human it hurts me when someone I consider a friend ignoring me, it hurts me. I do get jealous, which i normal. I am not a saint and I am etitled to be jealous.

I know I do come across childish, a bit immature. I know behave kiddish, because thats the way I try to deal with my problems and pain in life. You may think I can never be serious. But I am one serious person and I know the gravity of the situation I soo often find myself in. I hate decision making and leave the decision on others. But if the decision concerns me or affects me in anyway, I won't shrugg off my responsibility.

I am emmotional, very emmotional. There are times I have to literally hold back tears, or i may find myself in tears for very small incidents. But I can be very strong and be there fo my family, as I found out when my dad passed away.

I hate when people have the wrong impression about me. I hate when people say I am not trustyworthy, immature, someone who uses others. Thats not who I am. YEs I may be a bit immature, because I tend to follow my heart than my head. About not being trustworth thats a openion each one is entitled to, but I may never always agree with you. I know one who would use someone else for my own benefit. I can't hurt anyone, if I do it is totally unintentional.

I am pretty openionated and will talk about things I hate. But I am a person who is all bark and no bite. I hate confrontation, hate getting into an arguement. I hate being torned between two people.

I can get angry very quickly, but I cool down at the same speed too. I can't stay angry with someone for too long. And even if I say I never want to talk to them, I end up talking to them. I really don't like it when someone tell me never to contact them again. Maybe intially my ego will prevent them, but I will try in get in touch once evrything has settled down. There is a part of me that would want to try something else, but there is part of me that doesn't want me to seem to desperate. I am no leech. But there will always be part of me that wants to reconcile and clear any misunderstanding that may be there.

I can be very chirpy and quirky. Will start dancing and singing anywhere. I talk very loudly, can never be soft. When I talk it is not just my mouth doing all the talking. My whole body participates in the conversation. Love to dance but can't do it for too long. Would hate all night party. I do need my rest and sleep.

Well ther is soo much to me, as I said before, that I too can't remember. Hope this can clear some on the isunderstanding.

Memories

They say when someone passes away they leave behind memories of the times spent with us. However I believe that when a person is no more they not only leave behind memories, but leave behind a feeling of emptiness because the place they have left vacant. Be it your aunt, dad or dog, you'll always find a part of you pinning for them. You miss the person sitting on chair and taking lessons of quite a lot tution children, always asking you if you wanted cash. Or receiving long distance calls on your birthday, and special oassions like Christmas, Easter and other festivals. You miss someone who calls you as 'Sonna'. You miss someone who gets all excited when you come home, who can't wait for you to get home, Who'll bark, wag her tail, scratches the door so that someone opens it for her. Barking everytime the doorbell rings. Moreover loving you unconditionally.

You miss them alot, there is an emptyness in you that cannot be fille by anyone else. But there is one thing I know by pinning for someone we do not let their sould rest in peace. What we need to do is cherish the memories that we shared with them. Think of all the Happy times you spent together.

Why Vote

Well the BMC election were just held in the city and the results of these elections are out. approximately only 46% mumbaites voted in this elections. The ruling Shiv Sena and BJP alliance have been voted back into power, or have been voted back to heading the Muncipal Cooperation. The one features that has been appearing in many newspapers the pass few days is why people didn't excercise their constitutional right to vote. Celebrity and normal mortals like you and me. Whats interesting to read is their execuses for not doing so. The celebrity had the usual execuse, they will not be in town. Have to attendsome celbrity do somewhere around the globe or they are on their vacation. Among the gemeral public the common execuse is that they didn't trust any political party, or their area was not well looked after, or the roads were not properly done, or they were looking at the 26/7 flods for an excuse. Or even the resevations. Well whatever reason these people have for not voting, which is more than half of the population of Mumbai, they actually allowed the parties they blamed for their ordeal to come back into power instead of doing the opposite. The funny thing its these celebreties and people who will be complaining about the state of affairs in papers and whatever medium they have. After not voting do they have the right to complain????

Well there were those people who wanted to vote but couldn't vote. Because they were not registered voter, or their names were not transferred to the new area they moved to. Or their jobs didn't give them any time or any intimation. Me included :)

Train Travel

A train travel can be quite experience, something I don’t think you will experience anyway other than our very own country, or to be more specific our city of Mumbai. There are so many things that actually bewilder me. I normally take a starting train from Malad station. Every time the train enters the platform a couple people standing in the front will wave their hands in front of the train as if they were hailing a cab. I wonder whether the train would actually halt there for them.

Well getting into a Mumbai local at peak is another event itself. It quite reminds me of the famous Bull-Running in Pamplona, Spain. The mad dash to get in to the train for either a seat of a comfortable standing place is something quite unworldly. If you are getting into starting train then you can just wait for the mad dash to settle and get into the train. But if you are in the train and trying to get off it then God save your soul. If you don’t use every ounce of your strength you’ll find yourself being pushed deeper into the compartment.

One thing about travelling by train is that you may not require to visit massage parlour or a sauna. The compartment so packed like a can of sardines. Bodies against bodies. You have to contort your body in ways you didn’t think would be possible, just get some space. And to top it all you will still have people complaining or making noise or picking a fight with someone because someone is not giving them enough of space. A train fight can be an interesting place to learning all the A-Z of Hindi gallies. Well getting in to the train takes up so much energy that by the time you are in the train you are one mass of sweet. And to top it all you have hundreds of commuters breathing together, making the compartment one big steam/boiler room.

Well you also get some free entertainment while travelling. You’ll have these guys leaning out of the train or trying to do some daredevil stunt, like catching the train from the tracks, getting off the train and catching it while in motion, leaning really out of the train, touching every pole they pass. Wonder if they are trying to impress the females in the passing train (who actually don’t seem to give them any attention)? Then there are those who travel on the roof top of the train, wonder if they are aware of the peril in travelling this way. Then saw a guy standing on top of the roof top and in spite of the warning of the passenger, continue to stand while the train was in motion. Maybe he thought he was surfing on the beaches of Goa or the US.

Then there is this fat gentleman who gets in at Jogeshwari and wants to stand at the door. And when Andheri comes he’ll move from one end of the door to the other and even fight with the person standing on the end if he doesn’t give him space. Sometime I really want to applaud his act everyday.

Well there is more such thing that happens while travelling that you need to actually travel to experience it.

How Different???

Well I work as an Instructional Writer for an eLearning company (for those who didn't know about this). One of the course that I am working on is on Terrorism. This includes the IRA, from Ireland and who can forget the Al Qaeda. In the course we have mentioned about these religious fanatics like Abu Hamza, who conducted religious meeting in an attempt to recruit people to their causes with their fiery speeches. These fanatics have been arrested on account of trying to spread and recruit youngster and trying to incite communal violence.

Just yesterday (or maybe today) I read in the papers and on websites about the Shiv Sena's political rally for the upcoming muncipal elections. This was attended, obviously, by Mr. Bal Thackery and Mr. Narendra Modi. What caught my attention was one of the things that Mr. Thackery said in his speech with regards to separating Mumbai from Maharashtra. He said that the city will burn if taken away from Maharashtra. Another statement he asked all Hindus to break all the linguistic barrier and unit to create Hinsutan of Hindus (which was his dream) and that would bring Islam in this country down to its knees.

Reading this made me question what is the difference between one Abu Hamza and one Bal Thackery. Both use public gathering and meeting in trying to get people to their cause. Both use fiery speech which has soo much so as to incite a communal violence. So if Abu Hamza has been arrested for his speeches, makes me wonder why the same hasn't been done for Mr. Thackery. If Abu Hamza has been branded radical leader and supporter of Terrorism, how different is Mr. Bal Thackery????

Innocence of Children

While attending mass this Sunday happened to hear a small girl sing the Alleulia. She must be just over a year old or may be two. Though she was off key (well you don't expect a two year old to be on key) there was something beautiful about the way she sang. There was the innocence in her voice, she may not have know the meaning of words of the wing, but yet she sang it. Defnitely she must have caught the attention of the people sitting next to her, if not she definitely caught my attention. There was something wonderful and fascinating about her as she sat on her grandmother's lap (who I assume is). WEll really admire her, when I myself was stuggling with my singing voice.

WEll for the 26th January, my Godchild Clyde's building had a Fancy Dress competition. His mom sent him as Nemo (the fish character from Finding Nemo) and made him say the Hindi poetry Machli Jal Ki Rani Hain. Well he managed to get a second prize in his age group (0-5). Well yesterday his mom made him say the poetry on the phone. And trust me he said it beautifully and every line (may not be too clearly) But he said the entire poetry. Mind you this little guy is just 3 and half year old and its a big deal for him to say this poetry on stage and comepete with children older than him and manage to win a prize. It was really sweet and prud moment for me to hear him on the phone.

WEll these two incident made me long for their innocence, their purity of mind and beliefs. Made me long to return back to my very own childhood. Made me want to have children of my own.

Can we really consider ourselves as educated gentlemen and women????

Well today while travelling (thats when my mind is the most creative and soo many things are there to observe), a group of woman labourers wioth their children, some infants barely months old, and some elderly ladies, got on the bus together with me. These ladies were struggling to get their balance in the bus along with their infants (you knwo how travelling by buses in Mumbai can be). What was disheartening there were soo many educated, well dressed people in the bus, heading to office. They could have been kind enough and given their seats to these ladies, but they see to be soo oblivious about the presence of these labourers. Though someone eventually did give one their seat.

Well in school, as a kid i learnt tahat we should offer our seat to the elderly and ladies. But does this lesson only applies to wel dressed women only??? Would these ladies have to go through the same ordeal if their situation were different and they were not labourers but woman from affluent families????

Doesn't this make you wonder... What example are we setting????

Obessed with a song???

Have you gone through this phase where you have heard this song and it somehow stuck in your head and you want to hear it over and over again. You become so obsessed with it. You assoicate it to situations or events that occur in your life. Well after my friend introduced me to Don't want to say Goodbye by Teddy Thompson from the Brokeback Mountain soundtrack, I too went through all this. Though this isn't my first time.

But somehow I was able to apply this to my life, to my losses and sadness that have gone through. To the hearbreak, pain of loosing someone you care so much about. Whether it your friend or your pet.

Wedding Cards

Had been to David & Co. a well known dealer for all wedding related items, mainly Christian and Parsi. And for ocassion like death aniversary, moths mind mass, First Holy Communion, christening, and all such momentoes. Was there for Dada's first death anniversary. But couldn't stop admiring people picking out their wedding cards and momento. Hoping that one day I would do the same. Actually already picked out the momento for my wedding. A couple standing near a blue horse carriage.

Iranian Cafe

My friends and colleagues Ghazala, Neil and Vinita and myself have an habit og talking about the different eateries we have been to. And somehow we talk aboout these old Iranian restaurents that they have been to in and around South Mumbai. And the food they severed there.

Well this Saturday had a pleasure of visiting one such place at Dhobi Talao (Near Metro). There was something sweet about this place. It something of a rarity that is seems to be fading away in the modern world. There was an old world charm to it, elderly gentlemen taking your order, round tables with red checks table cloth, those chairs, and people having mawa cakes, puddings, sandwiches. You will not see such structure anywhere now.

Had a sandwich, didn't like it too much, but was enjoying the place soo much that i didn't mind it. Had to have the pudding thinking about my friend Ghazala's recommendation. And it was worth it.

All in all it was wonderful experience. To be transported to another world. How wish this world wouldn't fade way and find its place in the modern world without loosing it's charm :)

Friends

I wonder what life would be without friends????

It would really be pretty empty and gloomy. I would have been in the depths of dispair an dsepression if wouldn't have been for friends who pulled me back up :). They my support system, the crutches that I lean on when situation cripples me. Someone who I can lean on in my darkest hour. Someone who makes me realise my folly, spank me, correct me, but have my best interest in their heart.

I know I am blessed with the best, after all I have found these gems. The funny thing is some I have recently met, maybe a month back, but it seem I have known them for ages. Lovew talking to them, though I may have never met them. Chat with them for hours on messenger. Spend time with them. share my interests, makes life worth living.

Then there are my old friends who I can't do without. I may have fought with them, screamt and abused them. But at the end of the day I care too much about them.

I really care about all my friends, they are my baccha and soo dearly love them.

Well this is for all my friends, new and old, I want you'll to be a part of my life. Be there for joys, and support in sorrows. I wnt you guys and gals to be my friends for a life time.

From the bottom f my heart I THANK YOU ALL....

Yours forever
Roddie

Wish.. Wish.. Wish

How i wish to wake up in the morning and all my mistakes are no more. Rubbed off and there is a clean slate. I how I wished I could undo the mess I have created. How i wish I had a time turner to turn back time.


How I wish.....

How justified are we in the things we do????

I travel to work daily by First Class from Malad to Andheri. The other day a man dressed in rags and his child was trying to get into the compartment at Jogeshwari. The people at the gate tried to block the person from entering the compartment saying this was the first class compartment. The poor person may not have been able to get into the other compartment as it was peak hours. And he was actually pleading. Are we justified in doing so??? Could we just allow him and the child in to the compartment on a humanity basis. After all there wouldn't be a Ticket Collector in the Train???

Well it was shocking to see the video of Sadam Hussein's execution being broadcasted in one of the big new channel. This was an absolutle shocker, especially from the news channel. We condenm the news channels for flashing the hostage execution videos. How justified was this news channel in showing this footage????

How justified are WE????