My Indian Favorites @ 2013 # 1 - Arvind Kejriwal

Hailing from an educated family, being an alumni of Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, leaving the reputed and a well settled job in Indian Revenue Services, what Arvind Kejriwal has been doing for India  all these years has seen the light of the day in the form of the recent Assembly Elections held in Delhi. Although he had been doing his best for the country and its people, the whole attention was all at once grabbed by Mr. Kejriwal through Aam Aadmi Party's inspiring victory in the national capital.

At least I did not expect AAP to win the elections.  I was sure that there would be something different happening this time but never could imagine this big. Had they got those last required seats as well, they would have formed the government straight away by not allowing all the criticism that was bestowed on them otherwise. He has a good team, as it seems at the moment. His cabinet has been announced and they are all educated as expected and anticipated. Amidst the burning issues in the country at the moment, everyone wanted the CHANGE. In the national capital if the AAP succeeds, it would be a great hope for the rest of the country. If not AAP, there will be local alliances to support them. As I write this, Kejriwal has announced the fifty percent tariff cut in the electricity, to keep up their promise to some extent. He has already announced the free water supply, of course with conditions apply. He has also announced one crore compensation for the cop murdered on duty; which is the only second time at least I heard after Mrs. Hemant Karkare was offered lump-some amount after the infamous Mumbai attacks back in 2008. Appreciable, all in all.

Well, it's been just three days the AAP has come to rule. A long way to go! I along with crores of Indians are expecting it to succeed. I wish Mr. Kejriwal, and his team a challenging yet successful years. I also hope that his family will support him the same way they have been doing all these years. All the best to him and Delhiites. 

My Indian Favorites @ 2013 # 2 - Comedy Nights with Kapil (Kapil Sharma)

Comedy interests me, but not comedy shows. I always prefer, be it in movies or serials, the comedy to be part of the story and to be played by the main characters themselves. Comedy Nights with Kapil is an exception in this regard, as far as I'm concerned. I can watch any number of episodes of this latest sensational comedy show back to back! May be this is the beginning of the show and hence I'm able to do so. But, to be honest to this point of time, I'm very much impressed with the entertainment I'm being bestowed on while watching this show.

The major strength to the show, according to me, and I believe I have support from many other fans, is Mr. Kapil Sharma. It feels very different to address him as Mr. After watching the comedy he explodes in this show, I prefer calling him just as Kapil, like we call a person next door. He is gifted with the spontaneity which required for any comedian to keep the audience mesmerized with the unexpectedness. His team as well does extremely well. We must also give credit to the creative directors and writers of the show for all the efforts, thoughts and creativity they put in to bring out the weekly show as a perfect resource for the audience to rejoice.  The celebrity guests add their own bit. People get to interact with their favorite stars as well as their favorite comedy characters. There have been many comedy shows. In some of them, Kapil himself participated and won. But according to me, Comedy Nights with Kapil is the best so far and only one of it's kind. 

There can be revelations about copying from a different shows from other countries. Even in that case, I'm with this show. What matters is not the copying but the presentation for the Indian audience. But I hope this is a complete Indian born and run show by the Indian technical team! Looking forward for the rest of the episodes. How can I close this post without mentioning this? "Baba Ji Ka Thullu!!". A brand it    has almost become!

My Indian Favorites @ 2013 # 3 - Sachin's Retirement

This is the only post out of the twelve to write which I've neither opened the Wikipedia page nor had to do some study. For me, it's like playing my favorite sport straight in the field without practicing! Sachin Tendulkar, the man who needs no introduction, has been one of my favorites of all the time. 2013 being his last year into the cricket field as a player, he is hence there on my year's favorites list, probably for the one last time to happen so! 

From the beginning of his career to the end, he has been a passionate and determined contender. No controversies could reach him except one or two which were also very weak. No bowler in the world could sledge him to go out of his shoes. If someone sledged, he and his team mates had to go on search for the ball. Sachin has been an inspiration to the present generation of cricketers to catch the bat at early age. Sachin has been the brand ambassador for Indian sports across the globe. A family man representing the culture of India. Although all these are nothing to do only with 2013, they are the basis behind the loudest ever chanting of his name at the Wankhede Stadium in his farewell test match. Not just in his ears, the Sachinnnn...Sachin will reverberate in the ears of all his fans across the globe. And that too every time with a feeling of missing him!

There is another uniqueness to this post. I've kept the heading as 'Sachin's Retirement' which obviously is not my favorite going by the literal meaning. But, I chose that as the whole episode has efficiently impacted a lot things across the country. I'm not asking Sachin for a comeback here; rather I'd convey that he must continue to do the job he is passionate about. Along with cricket, I'm sure he must have been brought up some interests within. He must go for them. We all love you Sachin! All the best for the next innings. 

My Indian Favorites @ 2013 # 4 - Balika Vadhu

'Child marriage' was a burning social issue in India. It continued to impact the innocent childhood days and hence the adulthood crazy wishes of many until the mid of the very first decade of the twenty first century. Although  the instances have come down in the recent years as far as the complete country's statistics are concerned, i is still an issue in the rural India. Taking this particular issue as the basis to the plot, the way 'Balika Vadhu', the TV serial, has been made up till date is the best among all the TV dramas, according to me. 

Every character's characterization has been done incredibly well. You take any character and analyze, you will feel as if the writer and the director have actually lived those characters and moments! The screen play is the best. What I especially like in this is the situations that  have been created around to transform some of the characters from negative to positive, I mean through the realizations of life! The closing lines have been the trend setter types. A single line that is said at the end of every episode does have an inbuilt meaning in it that leaves you in thoughts for a while. Although couple of characters have been changed over a period of time, most of the characters have been played by the same artists, which I feel is the biggest binding factor between audience and the drama. Why Balika Vadhu is special for 2013 is that the transformations mentioned above have been telecasted during this period. It must be very effort-full for the Team Balika Vadhu. 

It's not just the child marriage that has been targeted in this serial. The illiteracy, widow marriages, closing down the liquor shops, answering back the attacks on women etc social issues have also been fought against in the serial. After watching it for this long period, I feel very close to the characters. Sometimes I feel 'it would be wonderful if such characters really exist and if such incidents really happen'. My time between 8 and 8:30 pm on a week day is spent to watch this. That will remain booked in the coming year too!

My Indian Favorites @ 2013 # 5 - National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)

Out of all favorites about which I've been writing here, writing about this particular one, i.e. about National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is going to be tough. It's always from within that I write here. Honestly, I had to check a lot about NDRF before start writing about it. In this world of so called globalization and multimedia, what comes to your mind first is what you are in touch with regularly. It's obvious that no one wants the disaster to be present every day such that we read/hear about NDRF. Along with the disaster, their support gets faded away as well, after few days of the nature's or man made infidelity. Hence one cannot be in touch with this team every now and then.

For those victims, who have been part of their rescuers list at least once in life time, they appear there around almost every day, if I'm not exaggerating. From their eyes if I have to write this post, it will end no where in terms of thanks-giving. As far as I'm concerned, envisaging of this team is a great step  in the history of India. I've learnt more about it from my all time first choice, Wikipedia. I do not want to create a duplicate here. Hence not entering into all such details. But I take full pride in appreciating the idea of establishing NDRF across the nation. I've also learnt that there is one under construction near my home town! It feels good and safe for the family and friends over there. The motive of NDRF, that they are ready to leave their lives and hopes back home while on the way to the victims' place, is the divinity in itself. On saying that I'd like to send my sincere condolences to the families of the NDRF personal who lost their lives in a chopper accident while on duty at Uttarakhand.

I'm not sure how to tell them to keep up their good work. If I say that I'm saying welcome to the fatalities. Well, it's understandable that the natural disasters cannot be stopped; they can only be anticipated against! I hope it will also be understood if I say ' Keep up the great work, NDRF'. Proud of you!

My Indian Favorites @ 2013 # 6 - Deepika Padukone

If I did not watch Ram-Leela, Deepika Padukone would not have been on my list of favorites for this year. This is true. At the same time, I've not decided on her with one film. It is only after watching Ram-Leela I gave her work a check. As I mentioned in one of my just previous posts, for Deepika as well, it's before cocktail and after it. A slight change is, in her case the stardom striking movies have not stopped with cocktail. They have come out as commercial block busters at the box office. All three of them. That's simply superb.

I do not deny the fact that the serious star-heroine crunch in Bollywood, following the big marriages happened in 2013, has ensured a straight road for Deepika Padukone. Nonetheless, it's not the number of movies or the remuneration but the script that brings audience to the theaters and success to your hands. She has done fantastic job in choosing her projects. I, at the same time, give credit to Mr. Bhansali for his pick in Ram-Leela. He is someone who do not go by the call-sheets of the actresses! She has proved herself at the end of the day. Not all can do that; and could not do that in 2013 at least. In the recent times' serious competition and credibility-taking acts, the way she has handled her successes is admirable. The tears in her eyes during one of the recent award functions, while receiving trophy from her dad, has brought out the typical Indian girl inside her. Awesomely spoken by her that day.

It seems 2014 will also be an exciting year for Ms. Padukone. As her next film is going to be along side the South India's famous ever actor, Rajinikant, she can conveniently expect another round of box office collections! Happy New Year as well is under the scanner and hence for her the successful run will not be gone with the passing year, it seems. All the very best, Deepika. Never leave your dimple full of smile! 

My Indian Favorites @ 2013 # 7 - Mars Orbiter Mission

The Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), aka Mangalyaan, is the proud addition to the Indian Space research Organization's (ISRO) list of achievements. Also, it was every Indian's proud moment when the MOM was launched from Sriharikota on November 5th. It will remain to be. It will be even more celebrating on the day when this mission gets successful by reaching the Mars. 

MOM is first of it's kind, the interplanetary mission, from ISRO. The earlier Chandrayaan mission was as well a prestigious step towards occupying our own space in the space. Although it is said that the launch of Mangalyaan is just to showcase the capabilities of India and it's rocket launching systems, there is more to that, in the form of the objectives of the launch stated . As the world is going crazy about the Mars-One, especially the Indians, it makes sense to put a step forward in a scientific way to explore the life-options around the space. It has always been the team effort at ISRO be it for all the earlier launcher or for their latest pie. Congratulations Team Mangalyaan!

Let us be hopeful of Mangalyaan reaching the Mars on the scheduled date. It will be great to be listed along with the three other space centers, the only three to perform the job so far. May all the experiments of ISO scientists get succeeded. May all their efforts get resulted into the deserving findings. This is not just important for ISRO or India, it is important for the mankind. All the best Team ISRO.

My Indian Favorites @ 2013 # 8 - Farhan Akhtar

Sports have always been nearer to my heart. When Bhag Milka Bhag was announced as the Biopic of Milka Singh, the successful Indian sprinter of mid twentieth century, I decided to watch it keeping aside any type of reviews. As the movie opened it's box office collections, it proved that this cricket crazy nation has something to offer for the athletic stories too, but on the screen. After watching the film, and till date, I'm unable to imagine anyone else in the character than Farhan Akhtar. So aptly he had done the job that even critics did not have any other option than praising. 

All the efforts Farhan has put into the work out to get the body that he has got have resulted into numerous appreciation. I've as well liked his dedication! Well, it's not just about the body building; as far as I'm concerned, its like this for Farhan Akhtar, before Bhag Milka Bhag and after that. For a man who is just an year short of forty years, taking up the job of doing a film like this is firstly challenging and most importantly very braving. The success he has got after the release of this film has added one more talent of him to his  multi-talented kitty which is already almost full. Anyway, there is no limit to such kitty as there is always space for one, it's all up to a person's

determination to add one.

Farhan Akhtar is one of a tough contender for the award getting race for 2013. My vote is for him. I hope many Indian film makers and actors/actresses get inspired from this movie and Farhan, and make few more such inspiring biopics in the years to come. It's important not just for the persons on whom the movies would be made but also for the Indian cinema. This is undoubtedly a marvelous way to bestow respect on the Indian who have ensured the hoisting of India flag on the world stages. 

My Indian Favorites @ 2013 # 9 - P.V. Sindhu

P.V. Sindhu, the youngest Arjuna awardee from the country, is undoubtedly the Indian badminton face of the year, and so as one of my favorites for this year. The bronze medal she bagged at the Badminton world championships in women's singles category has created the history. The two Grand-Prix titles came into her kitty are as well important for the country too, to keep the enthusiasm up to watch the badminton competitions and also to send kids for practice. 

Having the sports background at home is the best thing that can happen to any aspiring player. Family members know how a defeat tastes and win feels. Hence they know when to encourage, when to suggest, when to just leave it out for the person etc. From that perspective, Sindhu is a gifted kid. Her parents' support mattered the most not just for her, but also for the Indian badminton. Gopi Chand has once again succeeded in proving the fact that there can be home made heroes in sports; it need not always be the foreign training that makes us witness the heroics! Sindhu has recently bagged the endorsement from the famous Chinese brand, Li-Ning, with which multi-million dollars are associated with. Congratulations to her for that as well. 

Sindhu is still eligible to play the world junior badminton tournament. And she is into the top ten women singles' rankings. That's a good sign for a very bright future of Indian Badminton. I just hope and wish Sindhu to win many more trophies. Even after witnessing Nehwal's thundering successes on the world stage, choosing badminton as profession was not making that sense. But as and when this lady has won the bronze in the world championships, it's has become oblivious that young are holding the rackets, especially the female players. All the best Sindhu for a successful run in the year to come. Aim at the Rio Olympics, 2016!

My Indian Favorites @ 2013 # 10 - Raghuram Rajan

I'm a strong believer of this: It's a person's interest, efforts and ownership-taking attitude that brings him up the best in his career. One need not be an IITian or an alumni of IIM or MIT! But yes, having good educational back ground gives you the wild card entry for good start in career of course with a bag-full of reputation and expectations, to safeguard the former one need to put every effort and to fulfill the later one shall first understand them. It takes whopping self confidence and workout to come out the best in your career. Mr. Raghuram Rajan, the 23rd Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, is a live example of all that has been said above in the last few lines.

Indian economic situation was in an undesirable crunch before he took charge. Although it was said that Mr. Rajan would be adding every bit of his mind to bring it back to normal, it was known that it would not be that straight forward. Amidst all this, he was into the office, to handle probably the toughest job of the year. As expected, he could not be so impressive immediately, but he did definitely impacted the growth rate of the Indian Rupee. His less-interest and tax-cancellation schemes have attracted the foreign investments, some days ago. Now, the rupee has recovered a little. And we are all hoping that it would recover pretty well in the coming year.

As the talk is going on, may be a common currency for whole Asia may shut the curtain, to some extent, on the problems being faced by the Indian currency. I'm not sure about this as I'm not that fluent in economy, but I just hope Mr. Rajan would take any such moves forward, due to which the country's economic situation can be bettered. All the best Mr. Rajan and team. Looking forward for Rupee's comeback! 

My Indian Favorites @ 2013 # 11 - Durga Shakti Nagpal

Bureaucrats are one of those to whom my respect goes unconditionally. For the efforts they put in, to enter into the system. For the tremendous handling they do in and out. They run the nation by being the back bones of the whole cabinet. After watching the recent episode of Durga Shakthi Nagpal, my respect towards them has increased further. 

The gutsy job done by Mrs. Nagpal against the Sand Mafia is very inspiring. Keeping all the threats aside, the way she and her team have handled the whole show until her suspension was very adorable. Not all can do that. Not all members of the team could have done that if their lead was someone else than Mrs. Nagpal. It has set the benchmark. Again from Wikipedia I've learnt that her father was a government official and her grand father was a police officer and was murdered while on duty. Knowing and seeing the situations around her, I'm not surprised if their girl has achieved so much at just an age of 25. 

The suspension put on her has been revoked by the Uttar Pradesh government. Which is good, irrespective of the fact that she had to approach the Chief Minister. Well, that's all part of the game, which she has won ultimately. I wish her many years of sincere service by being the part of the Indian Administration. She must keep all her guts up. Because, such honest work is going to help the Indian generations to come. All support of the whole nation is with every such officer. Way to go!

My Indian Favorites @ 2013 # 12 - Deepika Kumari

Deepika Kumari, the 19 year Archer from Ranchi, has made me go for an awe at number of occasions in the past three years.  In 2013, she along with her team has won the gold medal at the Archery world cup in the women recurve event. Indian team won the medal by defeating the Olympic Champions, the Korean team. She has also set three national records in the recently held senior Archery championship. She being hailed from a small town in Jharkhand, the achievements of her and the contributions she made to the Indian and world archery are inspiring. 

At an early age she could get the required guidance and facilities in the form of The Tata Archery Academy. I've just learnt from her page in Wikipedia that she never used to miss her target while aiming at the mangoes in her childhood. Even important thing than this is that her parents observed this and did every possible thing to support her in pursuing her talent and interest as her career. That's appreciable. Admirable as well. Had they not done that we would have missed a talent which could become the smiling face of the Indian Archery. 

My best wishes to her to go for every possible victory in her career. May she get all that she deserve including the prestigious and precious Olympic gold medal at the Rio Olympics in 2016. All the best Deepika. 

Post:950... Six Years Back, On Dec 28th...

December 28th, 2007, IIT Delhi, Campus placements time...

Day starts with the alarm sounding with every intention to wake me up. From the sleep I was not in. I get ready for yet another encounter with the written test. This time an online one! I see myself in the mirror while making up  my hair, which I've always tried to maintain but never can succeed till date, and I see the reddened eyes, not because I'm short of sleep but because I feel absolutely option-less if today's chance cannot be grabbed. It was totally incorrect fear, or may be making sense to that's days situation and to that day's maturity! Tears roll out in an unstoppable way. The final year in IIT gives you a single room, your friends can neither see the tears nor can shed one for you. 

Only one wish! To get through. But no belief after all the failures faced until then. It appeared as if I was definitely not going to get through, but just deeply wanted to! 

Exam happens. Group discussion gets cancelled. Interview is done. Result time. What happens in between is only academic. Which is obviously not that interesting to read here!  

And, I get through! It was the most awaited moment. It mattered the most back then, on that day. 

To keep it short here, the above is how I remember the day I got placed. But if I go back in the memory lane, I get too many other memories popping up, some very important, some very much pleasing, some very much cherishable, some very much memorable and some other very much personal. December 28th will keep coming, so as my posts in blog. I'll express some of those some other time. This is it for this time.

Thanks to my friends and colleagues at work for making me remember this date with pleasure by making my so far journey interesting. 

Movie: Ram-Leela - The typical Bhansali type!

If Ram-Leela was Sanjay Leela Bhansali's first film, no doubt he would have been known as Ram Leela Bhansali! 

It's been more than three weeks since I saw Ram-Leela. Sonorous it is, till date. For the first fifteen minutes of the movie, for the that matter for another fifteen minutes later to that, I felt it really boring. The Gujarati-Hindi made it even difficult to get involved into the action being shown on the screen. But thanks to the serials I watch in TV, I could get the meaning of the dialogues except that of some words!

Every time I saw Ranveer Singh in his long beard and thick mustache before the release of the movie, I thought what Bhansali must be doing with this naughty wizard. After watching the movie, I realized what Bhansali's magic wand could do. Very much appreciable. I'm not sure how he had chosen Ranveer for that character, but he was very apt. The dialogue delivery of Ranveer suited so accurately to the character and the plot.

Deepika Padukone was as well a brilliant choice. The dimple beauty has done stunningly beautiful job in justifying her role and selection. I think she never got any better chance than Ram-Leela to actually perform. I'm very much impressed with this lady, with her smile and with her admirable capability to show up the romantic emotions on screen. For sure, she is my favorite for 2013. And now it's over to the award functions to get this girl on to the stage!

The costumes were superb. And the sets were spellbinding. What else one can say about SLB's picturization. As colorful and attractive as ever it has been! Undoubtedly, the costumes and the sets have supported Bhansali in bringing the Romeo-Juliet's adaption into the hearts of Indian fans. Well, needless to say that he will be the award getter for 2013, for his amusing work done in Ram-Leela. Hats off!

This post will not be felt completed if I do not mention the awesome item song done by Priyanka Chopra. These item numbers are one of my favorites out of all acts by the Bollywood actresses. Impressive! I've recently come to know that the song is sung by Bhoomi Trivedi, one of the Indian Idol finalists. It feels very good to know that your once favorite participants of a  mega show come out impressive with songs in movies. Way to go. All the best to her for a bright future. 

If you have not yet watched Ram-Leela, go for it. You will experience the romance in it's most beautiful colors. And yes, you will also experience the love although it happens amidst the bullets and blood. Watch it and feel it.

In the times of setbacks...!

I recently heard someone saying in an award function organized by NDTV in Rashtrapathi Bhavan that in the times of setbacks, take safe approach and be open for all opportunities rather than playing it blind and stubborn. I too believe so.

There comes this time in everyone’s life when you do not find anything coming your way. It becomes hard going all the time. Opportunities appear as if they are all around but they just seem like not coming to you or rather you are not going for them enough. At the same time, one cannot conclude it saying that this is it. But yes, one can say that this is how it happens at times. When it happens one must take as many safe approaches as possible rather than staying still, hanging around and playing it blind. One must be open for as many opportunities as possible and must not keep doors shut at any unless otherwise it’s too much to do so. Sixth sense as well can stop supporting you in such times but that’s not the end, one must believe so.

Being open and going for all possible options can definitely get you close to the one you need, you may or may not like it, that’s the other part of it. But doing so can clear a large portion of your way towards getting what you like. In the same awards function, the same gentlemen said that he tried for at least fifty interviews before he got selected for one job. Unfortunately he had to wait for fifteen months in the same job before he could get one he liked and longed for. Similar experiences might be there with many more people, especially with those who hail from middle class or lower middle class families. Well, setbacks do not know the class that we hail from. They can come in our way anytime. All we can do is to play it safe until we get the opportunity we like or may deserve. 

24 hours based analog clock!

Few days back it suddenly came to my mind why no one has ever made a 24 hour based analog clock. All we get to see is a 12 hour based clocks. On the other hand we do have digital clocks that show the time based on the settings, if you wish to see a 12 hour based one it does how and so as the 24 hour based one. When it comes to analog clocks, all most all of the clocks show only 12 hour scale.

It seems some kind of watches in fast track show the 24 hour scale but just as a small widget at the center of the round 12 hour clock. This is good.

Since in most of the countries we do have sun light in the morning and have no natural light during the night. With this we can easily figure out if the time shown in the 12 hour clock is the morning’s or of night’s. But when it comes to some countries like Norway, they have I believe half a year sun light and another half goes as night. For them, I think using the 12 hour based clock is a nightmare. Especially if a person wake up from deep sleep, it must be easier for his friends to tease him about his long sleep and the day proceeded into the other half, which we do try on many occasions in India but fail due to the natural reasons.

I’m not sure if such kind of clock already does exist in the world. Having said that t I suddenly realize that I can actually Google it.

Yes, I’ve done so and such clocks do exist. Wikipedia page says that such clocks are usually used by pilots, scientists and military. It seems during medieval times they were in use. Well, good that they are already there. I will try to buy one for myself if they come in my target price. I will like to use it.

Admitting to the mistake... Take Home #278

There is a certain satisfaction, although not very much pleasing, in admitting and apologizing for the mistakes. It gives the required positive boost to start with the remedy action. 

To gain experience... Take Home #277

Work hard to gain experience, to contribute. Anybody can work for money. 

Just short of a wonder at The Wanderers...

I do not remember when last time I wrote a post immediately after watching a cricket match but I will remember this post for a long time.

What a match it was today between India and South Africa! Firstly, well done both the teams. 

Having been criticized for it's last two wash out outings in England and Australia, Indian team entered South Africa knowing that there was a great task ahead. The one day series did not come in India's way in any manner. First day of the first test  gave a lot hope of watching a better Indian side than a conventional one away from the sub-continent. Day two, three and four gave a way towards thinking or rather believing about India's win. Here is Day five, today, and the tables are turned by the two South African batsmen. The composed knocks by AB and Duplessiss has taken the match away from India. And not just that, they have actually made Indian team and fans think that they would be losing it out. 

At the end, it was all the effort of the Indian bowlers that came in rescue. All the hard work put in since this morning has pitched in all at once. Good and bad. I wanted to watch SA winning the match and hence giving ICC the reason to think about organizing the ICC test championship. But sadly, not too much although, it turned out to be a draw! Any way, that's slightly convincing as well considering the pleasingly surprising show put up by the Indian players in first four days. 

All in all, a great start to the test series. With only one more match to go in this series, now both the teams can believe that they can win it from here. All the best to them. Hoping to see yet another nail biting test match between these two teams. 

Well played ! And it was just short of a wonder at The Wanderers today!

Book: The test of my life

Author: Yuvraj Singh

When Yuvraj Singh launched the book, for me it was like yet another story of a cancer survivor. I was not in any awe to read it. Needless to clarify how offers make women do buy the things. Same happened with me. An attractive offer came up in flipkart and I could not stop myself from choosing the Yuvi's pie. That's how I bought it. But once I bought it, I immediately took off. The read ended on a sunny morning of a Sunday under the morning sun light. 

Until I read the book, Yuvraj Singh as per me was a carefree player, expressive person, and a match winner. I never had a chance to learn more about him. Well, as I read through his story, what caught me in awe was his emotional side. In fact I had tears in my eyes in the very second page of the book. I thought it would be an emotional roller coaster ahead. Proving me right, although not completely, he put his survival story in a touching manner. 

He revealed much of his take on world cup 2011 which India won on the home soil. He mentioned that he was coughing and vomiting throughout his stay in Indian dressing room during the tournament, and he rather mentioned it too many times! I felt so. May be that's all about it. May be that's how he remembers it. But as a reader, I felt a little bored and used to it while turning the pages. What made me still turn the pages was the fact that it was about India's winning streak and of course the yet another fact that I bought the book. 

I said that he was a carefree player as per me. But while getting to know about his carelessness about his health during the world cup time, I as well felt him as a careless person! Well, that might not be entirely correct. You are playing world cup on your home soil. You are part of one of the best sides. You have every chance to lift the cup. Amidst of all that one may be or can be careless. Even I would have done the same too, I think. 

During the world cup Yuvi said that he was playing the tournament for a special person and the person's name would be announced later to the win as Sachin Tendulkar. Why Yuvi chose him was mentioned in the book and in a convincing manner as well. Thank you Sachin. Had you not said that to Yuvi that night, we would never have saw you lift the glittering trophy. 

It was only after watching the 'Bhag Milka Bhag' that I came to know who Yograj Singh, Youraj Singh's father was. And only in the book that I came to know about the split between Yuvi's parents. We know nothing about the personal lives of players and we keep expecting them play good every day. After all they too are humans! Well, Yuvi  has proved enough that he can manage all this. Thanks to his father too, because of whom Yuvi is who he is for Indian cricket. 

Mom plays the best role in every one's life so as Yuvi's mom. Not just in his earlier life but also during his Cancer days she was the one around him every second. He never mentioned about his father while writing about his days in US as a cancer patient. Anyway, that's not at all the point here. Yuvi was lucky to have such friends around him during the tough times and during his post-cancer workout sessions too. 

I read Lance Armstrong's book earlier. After reading about a person who came out healthy out of a stage four testicular cancer, Yuvi's story with almost stage one Cancer was not that catching but well, Cancer is Cancer and you have to fight for the survival. He did it. The major difference between the two books, although they are not comparable, is the emotional touch up Yuvi did considering the Indian audience/readers. He has been respectful to media all throughout the book. He need to, as he has whole life to go hand in hand with them. Yuvi has not mentioned anything about his personal life, I mean about his life with girls. May be, that was not the subject. Or may be, nothing of that sort existed. All you get to know, or rather what I got to know from the book is that he is a good friend and he has good friends in the Indian dressing room. In it and away from it. 

It's good that he chose to write his story. He says it is to bring the belief that one can survive Cancer. His foundation, 'YouWeCan' is doing well as of now. He as a player is doing fine. But needs a lot of efforts to stay on. He being in his early thirties, career may be in it's almost finishing stages. I just hope that he puts his best and pushes it as longer as he can. Wishing him a very good life and career. Ending this post in the hope to see him in the next world cup to be played down under. All the best Yuvi.

Do brave and be satisfied... Take Home #276

It's important that you share your views and put forward your requests to the appropriate people if you want to see any positive change about something that you believe in. Never fear to share your points. After all, that's a gutsy job and not all can perform. Do brave and be satisfied. 

Movie: Dhoom:3 - Yet another uncharacteristic sequel

One of the most appreciated artists of Bollywood of these days is Aamir Khan. One of the most charismatic movie franchise of the recent Indian Cinema is Dhoom. One must agree to the fact that these two are undoubtedly the best match, when put together. Unfortunately, it ends there. Only until the thoughts. Not more. 

One of the most awaited releases of the year, Dhoom:3, has reached the theaters on 20th of Christmas month. It has got mixed reviews. I will put it my way.

According me, Dhoom:3 is comparatively the toughest one to make out of all Dhoom series. The major chunk that one has to keep in mind while writing the script is the expectations of the audience. Considering the earlier block blustering successes of the same series, and with Aamir Khan starring, one cannot risk the screenplay, story, and mainly clarity in characterization. All these three are a lot lacking in Dhoom:3. Fortunately and unfortunately, the whole movie has been picturized abroad. Fortunate, because, had the whole movie been picturized in India, I fear if we would have got to see similar 'Auto Riksha' stunts, which was shown for almost five minutes at the introductory scene of Uday Chopra and Abhishek Bachchan, the carry over characters since the series' first outing. Unfortunate, because, apart from the few Indian faces, rest all are foreigners! That never appeals! 

For Aamir Khan fans, like me, watching the double dhamaka is a feast. But at the same time, I've never seen such a low level of expressions, low rated dialogue delivery from this man. One more, I never knew or rather realized that Aamir Khan is so short! The two earlier thief-police matches were perfect. I mean, John Abraham - Abhishek Bachchan and Hrithik Roshan - Abhishek Bachchan were even matches in height especially. The scenes between Aamir Khan and Abhishek Bachchan were very Tom and Jerry type. I think the director did not take the auditions keeping them together, side by side. Also, the director minded the least about showing the robberies whereas, like never before, he had put all efforts in showing the intention behind the robberies. May be he is right according to him but a director is right only when the audience can connect themselves to the story line. For me, Dhoom:3 director cannot be given the distinction. 

Now coming to the other side of the review, Katrina Kaif looked stunning. She danced superbly. On the way to the movie I thought I would miss Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. But Katrina has done a good job and justice to her role as the heroine of the third venture of Dhoom. The Bike stunts were amazingly good as well. And the all American roads have been the major plus point. I'm not sure of such bikes exist in the world, irrespective of that I loved the ideas. Pritam has once again done fantastic job by giving life to the movie in the form of music. The selection of locations is very admiring. I especially liked the last scene, for the location. 

Well, there is nothing much to appreciate. And I do not want to just put the lines. So it ends here.

All in all, the movie is a one time watcher and for Katrina Kaif one may choose to go to the theaters one more time, or any number of times for that matter. To be frank, Dhoom:3 is yet another uncharacteristic sequel. Hoping for a good one next time! 

The biggest motivation... Take Home #275

The biggest and the best motivation to do any job is to know what you are doing and what for. 

Convenience and correctness... Take Home #274

No doubt, people always like to hear what is convenient for them. And that's fair enough. It's up to an individual to keep up the responsibility of standing up for what he believes as correct and convey it in right way. Convenience is addictive. Correctness is productive. 

Missing you Viru! and All The Best...

Not sure why, but it's Virender Sehwag who has been coming to my mind these days again and again. Ever since I saw Sachin's farewell I started thinking about this yet another Indian batting maestro's. 

Although I like his attacking play, I've never been a big fan of him personally. Rather, I've at times disliked his motto of hitting the ball without looking at anything else, including the team's position. But everytime he made a triple figured score within double figured number of balls, he was my favourite for that day. On the day he made the double century in the world cup, I was little unhappy somewhere in the corner of my mind that Sachin's record was broken! Full credit to him for that day's assassination. It was a mixture of talent, aggression, wish to prove oneself and ruthlessness.

His both triple centuries from tests are still the only two triple hundreds made by Indian cricketers in the history of the game. The first one made in Multan is my all time favourite innings. I remember the next day's headlines in The Times of India, Sultan of Multan! 

And now it feels as if it's been ages since I've seen him batting for India. He not just lost the form but as well the touch. In fact, he was not the one who were to be judged by form. You never know when the storm attacks. He always has that. And no one knows when he start behaving himself in the middle. But once he starts, only he can stop himself. But now, it's different. These days and the recent Ramji matches have not been fortunate enough to get good records of Sehwag. His below average batting average and strike rate are standing against him to join the Indian squad. I strongly believe, not just that but some other forces in the team are also working against him joining the side again. Well, that's not evident but I simply sense that, right or wrong no one knows except those!

It seems, only he can pull himself out of all this. One good innings can get him everything back. It can even get him back to the Indian dressing room, especially for the tour of South Africa, where you need experienced players. At this present situation of not having around the one last experienced figure, Sachin Tendulkar, it's most important the a player like Sehwag be there. I just hope some magic or miracle whatever happens and gets him back to the spotlight. He too deserves a well organized farewell and if not for anything else, at least for his farewell which according to me is around the corner, he must come back to the team.

All the best Sehwag! One more little wish to be mentioned before concluding the post. I'd like to watch Sehwag and Dhawan opening it in tests for India. These two can script the world's best ever assassination, like never before and never again. Let's see what's in store!

After a setback... Take Home #273

Talent does not hide for too long. But for it to blossom once again after a setback, one must put his every effort, probably the best ever effort possible. 

Book: Usain Bolt - Faster Than Lightning

Author: Usain Bolt

'I was put on this earth to run' is how Usain starts saying about himself in his autobiography. Out of all the autobiographies I've read so far, if there is one book that has made me feel the craziness of the writer so passionately, it is the one from the Jamaican sprinter. The legend, as he likes himself to be called and actually is, has put in his life moments very admirably and interestingly. The game he belongs to is all about fractions of seconds. A second means a lot and hundredth of a second can differentiate where an athlete stands on the podium. The way he expresses about his practice sessions to improve his timing by less than half a second, gets through the readers' imagination of the possible pain and fatigue. Of course, it's up to the readers' interest in the game that will not let them leave the book until the last page is turned. 

When I heard someone saying that the 100 m race is about the athlete's mental strength, I never cared to believe. I used to think it was more to do with the athlete's physical strength, speedy start and long steps. Now I know that the mental strength is as equally important as like any thing mentioned before. The belief that 'you can win' can create the extra energy needed to put forward the foot quickly than anyone else. He writes, my start is not one of the greatest. Well, to win a race, one has to finish it first. Quick start can go in vain, which has actually gone in vain in the cases of his opponents every time he has won a race. He says he speeds up in the middle of the race which is evident as well. I finally got my answer why he often looks back on his way to the finishing line! It's his way of ensuring his victory. As simple as that.

When in younger age every competition appears the same and you have only one job, to win. But all of a sudden when you grow up, not just in terms of age but also in terms of experience and winning records, it starts getting to you. The expectations start pinching you at the starting line. The chantings around the stadium forces you to want to win at any cost. Sometimes, it costs you your own performance, unfortunately. This is all happend to Bolt when he won dozens of titles at the junior level and later when he participated in important races for his country towards the end of his teenage. He succembed to the pressure too but the best part is he could come out of it, all this way to be the Olympic gold medalist back to back times in the sheerly competitive sport of these days. 

His father, 'Pops' as he calls, has a major impact on the way he respects everyone in his personal life. I was quite astonished to know that his father used to force him to wish everyone he meets on his way to school. Although he claims he till date does respect everyone, his passionate way of celebrating victory, his trademark feet of showing hands and fingering to the crowd, has never allowed me to recognize it so far. May be, he is really so in his personal life. 

Since my childhood, the one track and field event that amazes me everytime is the 'relay'. I remember how our coach used to train our school team and warn them on how carefully one has to exchange the batten. Same is the way it happens at the international level as well, and this is what I learnt from the book. The fear is the same, and that is about the exchange of the batten. If you drop it, you do not just lose the race but you actually put down the efforts of your teammates as well. When it is about representing your country in the Olympic final, what all matters for any great or fast runner is to mind your hand to pick the batten correctly. The Jamaican team has won the 2012 Olympics with a world record. I have seen the video many number of times and now I'm also aware what was going through behind the scenes, at the back of the players' minds during that memorable feet. All I can say is it's not easy and it feels great at the end. 

Bolt has tried his best to make sure he does not spell it wrongly while writing about his rivals. He showered all the respect possible on Asafa Powell, Yohan Blake etc. Justin Gatlin has to undergo the criticism in some pages, but all in all it is ok throughout the book. I hope he has the same respect in reality towards his contemporaries. 

A short read it was but a long post this is. Usain Bolt's autobiography is worth reading if you want to feel the passion someone, rather a whole country, has for the track and field events. Yes, one more thing which I cannot forget to mention, if you want to know why bolt has chosen the 100 m race to the 400 m, which has brought him near to millions of hearts across the globe, read the book. Also, if you want to know what's and how his relationship is with his long time coach, read the book. Read it and feel the passion of the world's quickest athlete towards the game he is known for!

Usain, all the very best for the future races. I hope to see you doing it again at the Rio Olympics, 2016. A hattrick worth waiting for! 

Success will be yours, one or the other day!

To be able to be hopeful about success,

In the deeply shattered valley of sorrow,

To be able to believe in yourself,

Amidst the disbelief in the surrounding,

To be able to continue the guessing game,

When all the guesses are going wrong,

To be able to lead the life as usual,

As if the abnormalities are just normal,

Is a real bliss and a champion's trait.

Make sure you realize what is in you,

What you can do, what you can achieve,

Success will be yours, one or the other day.

Better to prevent... Take Home #272

Anything getting to head is dangerous. And when it is success or fame, it's pretty difficult to get rid off. Better to prevent than to run around for a cure.  The worst part is, sometimes you even do no know that you need a cure. That strong it gets to head if it gets. Be careful and keep introspecting. 

Peace of mind... Take Home #271

Passing on the responsibilities to the right person at right time is very important. If not happiness always, peace of mind is assured every time we do so. 

Movie: Krrish 3 - The Indian Superhero With The Indian Emotions!

Some movies stand tall to bring the directors' thoughts close to the crowd rather than bringing the hero, graphics, action etc.  Here in this particular movie, the thought of 'Krrish' has come very close to the audience, especially to the little ones. I watched this movie along with theatre full of audience among whom the kids were more than half, higher than ever. The so named 'Indian Super Hero' has done it once again, and this time more in terms of money than craziness. He was successful, or I must say more than successful, in his last attempt 'Krrish'. 

The newbie of Rakesh Roshan has every graphic in it, which reaches out to the audience to their amusement. For those who watch the other superhero films, their own expectations stand against them on the way to appreciate this movie. But for those, who wishfully watch this movie to find out the Indian-natured superhero, it turns out to be good if not perfect. The one shot that I will remember for my life is the flight shot with Krrish standing at the front tire of it. A potentially crazy one, and ambitious too. 

The superhero, an Indian by birth, has all the emotions of any typical Indian. Family comes first, helping comes first too. Reddened eyes reflect the love. Excitement about his would-be baby shows the ultimate happiness. Dad is every kid's hero, and for this superhero, his dad is already a brainy-superhero. A super match. Vivek Oberoi fitted well in the 'Kaal' character and of course in the well designed wheelchair which is also a brilliant choice by the director. I loved the beginning and ending of the movie although I did not completely understand the science behind all that was shown. That matters less, anyway.

Coming to the other side of my thoughts about this movie, the story could have been in more depth. It should not have been just about an unborn baby or a person who was born purely out of experiments. The 'Ma' or 'Daadi' are the words unused, who were potentially characterized in the earlier two parts of the movie. Kangana has done justice to her role but I think the role itself could have been revamped by inserting more interesting emotions into it. It was more like a barbie girl with don-like killer expressions, which according to me did not suit well. Personally, I hated the idea of using 'tongue' for fights. I had to close my eyes almost every time it came out. Even now I feel the irritation all throughout my nerves!

Moving on, it's been a good experience in the theater. This is the kind of a movie which has to be watched on the big screen. May be that's the reason why it has made all those records in money-making. Well tried. I hope more Indian superhero films rock the audience in future. Certainly, Krrish is an inspiration for all such. 

You may try...!

In any relationship, the more you know each other, the better you get connected to each other. The best way to each other's heart is to know about each other's childhood, those days, those memories, the things they liked, the days they struggled, the games they played and hence the after-math happened at home etc. Once you know each other's pure thoughts of those younger years, it's easy to make them feel happy at number of occasions. It varies from person to person what they prefer of all those memories from earlier days. That's what is up to their partner to find out and hence to act. I believe this is certainly a way to strengthen the bond as well as to keep it going for long. 

You may try!

The Farewell, Well Deserved ** For You Sachin #3 **

The last day of the career which ran for twenty four years could not get better than yesterday. It would have appeared the same for everyone who watched Sachin Tendulkar’s farewell day after the end of his two hundredth test match. The great man did bid farewell to the game amidst his family, friends, team, and of course his long time fans. His speech in full length of emotions was the highlight of the day and probably one of the highlights of his admirable career. Good that he could maintain that composure and fully utilized the once in a life time chance to express himself and thank all the deserved!

Enough is written, shown and said about Sachin and his career milestones. I‘d here mention about my mind’s journey with this great man’s personality.

Sachin Tendulkar: The name that is very famous and perhaps the mostly repeated in the record books of cricket. Ask his fans to know the rest. A famous public figure here in India and always has been a brand ambassador of Indian sports. Be it any game or sport, more than ninety percent of the players agree to fact that he is an inspiration, a legend, a trend setter.  Less like a celebrity and more like a person next door, Sachin, although has spoken emotions very less number of times to the crowd, has been successful in winning millions and millions of hearts. People do every possible thing for him, to see him, to watch his innings and so on. It might appear as endless madness, but even if it is true, there is some magic in this madness. Being able to enjoy his gesture is a bliss, a real bliss it feels.

Writing about him has been special to me. There have been numerous occasions on when I’ve written about him and cricket here in this blog. As I’ve always said, sports bring out the best writer in me, as per me. Every time I wrote about cricket, I got connected to the game and the players a bit more. Among the many players about whom I have written here, Sachin has been special and will remain to be so. When I started knowing him or liking him, I was just into the first year of my teenage. Probably that’s one of the main reasons why I used to go crazy about him. Later it turned out to be liking, which felt very pure from inside. And even today it does appear the same. I feel so lucky and blessed to be able to enjoy it all these years and even today. It feels as if I’m happy for some portion of me. As if I’ve achieved something too!

I must confess. It was not the same good boat throughout. There were plenty of occasions when I got angry on him and used bad words. That was out of sheer disappointment which fortunately never lasted for more than a minute every time. The sportive spirit and the connectivity to the sports men I’ve developed over the years have always come into the show and bring me back to the normally thinking position. I must apologise to him for all such minutes! May be, he deserved some of them for the way he played but never for the intention with which he played. Sorry Sachin.

Thank you is not enough for all that he has been doing. It’s not that every day you get to see players like him getting retired. On this occasion, a heartfelt thank you makes great sense. But I’m worried what all I shall mention why I’m thankful to him. Thank you Sachin, for the happiness, for the memories, for the inspiration, and for the way you have carried yourself. Learnt a lot from you!

I’m one of those who believe that records are meant to be broken. Also, I’m one of those selfish persons, who want to see another Indian rewriting the record of this great man. Well, country name would not matter much although the selfishness might get hurt some way, if there comes a player who surpasses this batting maestro, it would be another great era to be part of. Tendulkar’s era is gone beautifully.

One wish I’ve, in fact I’ve been having, is to read a biography or an autobiography of Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar, a frankly written one well like the one on Steve Jobs; as bigger as that and as frankly written as that. Sachin must show interest in writing and publishing this. He must write it for his family, friends, fans and of course for the generations to come. For the family to know how were his unexpressed emotions like. For friends to convey the beauty of friendship. For the fans to tell them how it like hearing Sachinnn..Sachin while coming to bat in a big match. And for the next generations to make them believe that there lived a man called Sachin Tendulkar and so that they will be sure of his existence and he was not really that 'god', he was a pure human.

This is it for now ** For You Sachin**. I’m sure I will keep getting opportunities to write about him. For him and against him; in any case I will enjoy writing about him.

Good bye Sachin and Thank You!

The Ultimate... Take Home #270

Enjoying someone's success feels good, and being able to do so is a bliss. Getting inspired from all that and to use the inspiration at right place to learn and grow in your own field is the ultimate. 

Grab each one... Take Home #269

It is so important to keep aside the tears of joy and say how thankful you are to the people who have been there for you, with you throughout your journey towards success. Not too many chances come your way to do so. Grab each one.

Thanks to Sachin for delivering that wonderfully emotional speech. That's probably one of the best ones I've heard in the recent times. I loved the emotions and expressions of him, especially the typical Indian natured ones.

Better keep trying... Take Home #268

Giving it up shows that you are lack in confidence not just in yourself but also in miracles. You never know. Better keep trying until the last chance.

The last innings is played. History is made! - ** For You Sachin #2 **

In the so named 'Sachin's Farewell Test', India is on the verge of huge  victory on the home soil against the visiting Windies side. The decent 74 made by the man of the moment, Sachin Tendulkar, will be recorded and remembered as the last innings of his twenty four years of cricketing career. As the Wankhede gave the standing ovation, the little master left the field for one last time after getting out. The fact that Sachin will not be seen with the bat again in the professional cricket has made many eyes wet, including mine needless to mention. That much used to we have all become to this man.

Even since I've known cricket I've known him. I watched some matches for him, only for him. And the millions of fellow fans have always been there to give company, who have also watched the match for him. there would not have been any best occasion to retire than his two hundredth test. I along with many have been believing that the decision of his retirement shall entirely be left to him. I feel really proud about his this decision which has come just in right time.

Henceforth, you can never hear, "Is Sachin there at crease?". You never have to answer "What's Sachin's score?". You will never get a chance to do the very famous feat, switching off the TV or changing the channel after Sachin gets out. No waiting for the second wicket to go down in a test. No need to rush to the TV for the first ball when India bat in a ODI. For person who is not aware of cricket or Sachin, reading the above lines would mean knowing something. And for his hardcore fans, like me, the above lines have been the part of life and fully emotion-bundled. Now it's going to take time to get used to a different routine or may be need not at all for the rest of the life. He is one in a generation. So as our worship for him. That cannot be spared another time for anyone. It's once for all. And now it's done. 

His determination to perform well and the honesty towards his team and country have been inspiring me since years. They will continue to do so. His memories are going to remain, as best and closest. 

He has had his ups and depths in his career. Of course they are part of the game. His composure and willingness to perform again are incredible. Everytime he gets duck out the heart sinks. And on a century, it sings. Well, a lot to learn from this great man from India. 

Thanks to the Sachin Mania. Because of which certain incidents from past could be learnt. How unfair life is with some great people at times! I've learnt lately that Don Bradman was duck out in his last innings which made him leave the ground in tears. Since when I've read that, I'm unable to digest it fully. For such a great player, life should have been little more fairer than it was. Well, as we always say, that's life. And you have to accept the things and move forward. Since when I read the above, I was worried if history repeats itself. Fortunately no. Sachin got a pretty decent and purposeful 74. That's perfectly alright.

A day to go, most probably, for the legendary man's career to end. I'd love to watch the proceedings live. I think I will have to manage it out tomorrow somehow. Let me see!

It's been Sachin, Sachin and Sachin that is going on since last couple of days. It feels really good and not at all hectic. I think there is no fatigue in thinking or writing about him. But I must stop this post here for now. A day to go; hope it will be memorable for Sachin, who deserves it the best that it could be.

"In victory, learn where to stop" - ** For You Sachin #1 **

In one of the recent books I've read, it is written - " In victory, learn where to stop". Although I was aware by the time I read the book that Sachin had announced his retirement, I could not imagine his picture while I was reading through the content related to the above line. But today as I sat to write about him, the first thing that did strike to my mind was the same line "In victory, learn where to stop". Having been the player a nation prayed for and the world loved for all these years, Sachin Tendulkar has stepped into his final moments of being a cricketer on the field. He is stopping it, as per me, at the best time!

Over 400 ODIs, the first ever double hundred in ODI cricket, 100 centuries in career, 200 test matches played, world cup victory, IPL championship, Champions' league win and numerous other innings and few memorable spells, this is how Sachin's kitty is filled with joy and memories. Of all these years of play, he as a player and as a cricketer, has turned out to be the game's true figure. The nation's true hero. One of the world's true sportsmen. 

Sachin's last test was being watched. And it was doubtful if we were watching the last test of Sachin or of India or of cricket itself. Huge excitement. Anything-can-be-done kind of nature to reach out to the live screens. Four runs got cheered as if it was his half-century. Every single run got applauds, standing applause for most of the cases.  It was more than fun watching the live show. More than anything, it was more than inspiring. The way the little master was constructing the innings was superb. Goose-bumps passed all throughout. I think that experience is only one of it's kind that I'd ever got or I might never get in future. The one only by the one and only Sachin Tendulkar. 

Having your family around, and that too for the first time in the career of 24 years, itself is a big creator of pressure. Your name gets chanted for so long and in such a high voice, you calmly get prepared to bat. You bat as if you are not aware why all that around you happening is happening. You wait for your partner at the end of the day, for him to come down and join you on the other end of the pitch. It's simply not that every you and me can do. It's not that blessing as it appears. It's the best test you have undergone. And Sachin, you are the only one who has handled it not just aptly but also inspiringly as well. Hats off to you and of course, Thank You. 

Please go on to make more runs tomorrow and along with that create a record. A record, that cannot probably be broken in immediate years. 

Win the run... Take Home #267

In any life's run, the most habituated we are to the relaxation, the near we are to the losing streak to come. Do not get relaxed more than needed. Win the run. 

Things settle down... Take Home #266

Things settle down, maybe a day or two late, but they do. In tough times, whereas the actual problem causes some amount of trauma, the rest of the trouble, which probably is the largest part, is caused by our thinking about the so called 'what-people-think' and by the attitude of unacceptance of the problem 'as the problem that we do not deserve'. 

Even though the things settle down someday, unless we learn how to handle the problems and hence gain the confidence, things are not actually settled.

Back from vacation, back to work!

The joyous vacation has come to an end. A long vacation this time has charged me up, fully. As expected and as like every time, leaving home proved no fun. Vacation is always good except the last day! Although the last day pours immense amount of love on you, the same love makes it tough for you to accept that you are actually going to leave soon. Even after experiencing the so called 'Last Day's' feelings many a number of times so far, I'm yet to learn how to handle it. Of course, certain amount of emotions have come under control, it's long way to go. Someone said, practice makes man perfect. And I think, no practice under the sun can make a woman emotionless on the last day of stay after a vacation with her family. 

As I sat in the vehicle to start my return journey, I felt as if I did go no where between the first day of the vacation and the last day. I felt as if nothing happened in between. I got into the vehicle twenty five days back and now I got into it again, where twenty five days flashed away from memory all of a sudden. As the train approached the destination while I was going home, my heart freshened up and when the train started leaving the same station on my return journey, tears could not be stopped. Thoughts of home could not be managed from they being the every cause of every tear drop. Life has to move on. As the train moved on, I started thinking about those things which I left back when I started for the vacation. The work. The flat. The colleagues and friends in Pune. 

When the more than full mail box welcomes you, it feels great. I'm not sure if everyone feels the same. But I did feel great. It shows your importance. It shows the hard work you put in to get to the position you are in. It made me happy and immediately thoughtful about the plan to clear the mailbox. It took quite a sometime and the Diwali-hit quiet office surroundings allowed me to get updated of the happenings with peace of mind. And then what, back to normalcy! 

The two day weekend has helped me in completing the domestic work. At the same time, it has once again charged me up to be ready for the work to come. Many a topics to write on, including the most happening of these days, Sachin's last few days to wear the Indian cap as a player. But right at the moment, my heart goes for those in Philippines, who have seen a worst hit by the typhoon. Hope every thing gets well soon. I'll write more and signing off for now. See you. Good day.

Happiness and Legacy...!

Smile runs the world. 

Power rules the world. 

Never let the smile fade away, tough times have to go away. Keep smiling not just to stay happy but also to spread the happiness. Wear it and let it be as your arrow-handler. 

Adopt power, take control to an extent that you can handle. And keep upgrading your handling capabilities time to time. Extend your fences beyond comfort. 

Life means all. 

Smile and Power. 

Peace and Control. 

Happiness and Legacy. 

Motivation is all that needed... Take Home #265

Motivation is all that is needed. Be it the work you like to do or the task that you hate to perform but have no choice, put your best to find certain motivation. And the rest will be done by you yourself. 

Success and failure... Take Home #264

Success is a celebration. Failure is a lesson. Not to end it there, it will be very handy to learn from successes as well and analyze the failures to find happiness and hence the confidence for the attempt made.