Karan Kumar

Cumpleaños feliz Karan

2012-02-12T10:58:00.000+05:30

Often it happens , late at night that when the clock strikes 12 - someone awakes !

Given the same scenario a decade back - people used to sleep well and then wake up to a new day . The scenario has changed now . People are more concerned to put the blanket aside , log on to the FB walls and see who all are wishing them . Check the beeping mobiles as to who texts and wished and who called in.

I remember a time when birthdays used to be a very hush -hush affair . Mom ; preparing the most amazing dishes in the world with her magic touch ; ordering and designing a cake which every year was different and talked about and very close network of people coming to wish me.

Times as they change and so does the age . People in graduation colleges have a different style of celebrating birthday . They believe in the art of parties . Why in the world people give parties to celebrate their own birthdays I feel to wonder ?!

Splashing cakes all over the face , kicking and licking in the name of bumps it is a different celebration all together. You need to be a part of this to see how it feels.

As one moves ahead ; the scenario further changes . When you join a professional course things become refined . People do come to wish you ; but the outlook is matured and refined . Cakes are eaten and enjoyed . You get hugs and kisses , as case be . :)

On a work front it's purely an internal driven task . You order cake/s ; one for splashing and the other for celebration . This is what we say - life is a full circle . Comes back to the start again.

An important part here is whom you celebrate your birthday with . Given , my personal opinion ; as you grow up you should change the way you grow . I have seen people who take a leave on this special day go to a far from the crowd place and spend time with the poor to help them in any which way they can . And then there are people who take their special someone for a date to some place exotic . People ! Parents are missing ?! Then , some plan a vacation or a holiday get-away to celebrate more than jsut birthdays .

I personally prefer to be very guarded when it comes to celebrations . I don't like being splashed over . Wishing is ok from everyone . And given my intellect I can make out who's is wishing with what motive . I like to spend time praying , visiting a religious place [ if possible ] , being myself and thinking what all has changed over the time and who all are still with me . It's more of a reflection in me as to what I have done every year to make me wait for the next one. It also is thought that time is near and the chance to spread the joy and make people love you goes passing every clock tick.

The idea of someone special calling you from across seven seas indeed makes you smile . More, when your class fourth teacher calls you and says - you were the best and the most disciplined of the lot - makes one feel - wow.

So wherever you are I am sure there must be times when you thought why birthdays ? At times one doesn't needs them and one is happy by keeping them secretive .

The Desert Circuit - BJJ -

2012-01-29T13:02:00.006+05:30

This one was to be a complete bang-on . After working hard for the entire 2011 , I deserved a complete rejuvenating holiday . And this time I wanted to complete the missing leg of Rajasthan - my current crush state :)

So it was the desert circuit this time - Bikaner , Jaisalmer and Jodhpur

Bikaner -

The drive to Bikaner , is a good one barring some rough patches of the NH-8. There are a lot of places and heritage property to be seen in and around Bikaner .

Our first stop was - Karni Mata Temple. Yes , this is also called as the Rat Temple . it is situated in the town of Deshnoke 30 km south from Bikaner on the road to Jodhpur. Karni Mata is worshiped as an incarnation of Goddess Durga.This temple is famous for rats which can be seen everywhere in the temple. It's conisdered good fortune if you see - a white rat . It's a rare one and the popular belief is that if you see one - you are fortunate .

Havelis - Rajasthan in particular is famous for castles and mahals . But Bikaner is known for havelis. A must visit is the famous cluster of havelies -Rampuria Havelies. The havelies were built of dulmera [ red ] stone. Exquisite and minute carvings come naturally to both the stones. The patwa havelies have more carvings in the interior also. The Rampuria havelies are decorated with golden work of the highest quality.

One of my old time favourite movie - The Kshtariyas - was shot here. This is the famous - Junagarh Fort . The art and architecture is something which you need to see for yourself .

In our two days stay - lunch was - at the Laxmi Niwas Palace . This is something which you can relate to any where in Rajasthan . A palace turned hotel the aura is simply superb.Red standstone all around it's a sight where you can take your loved ones and enjoy in the beauty of the royals.

Towards our last leg we visited the much hyped - Camel Research Farm, a farm engaged in research on camels. It is located about 8 km from Bikaner city . This is one of its kind institute in India. The farm is complex of stables and enclosures and buildings. One can enjoy camel ride or ice cream made of camel milk [ I tried and it was yukk....you can try once ;P ]. It is also known as Camel Breeding Farm to the locals.

Lalgarh Palace - The unique thing about this is being built in a tri-state manner incorporating Rajput, Mughal and European architectural styles.Currently, the Lallgarh Palace is owned and the hotel is run by his daughter, Princess Rajyashree Kumari - if you get a chance to meet her you will be taken away by her persona.

Kolayat - Kolayat is a famous pilgrimage spot with a temple dedicated to Muni Kapila who, according to his devotees, sat in meditation near the lake. A divine site.

Jaisalmer -

The very thought of a city inside a fort can make people wonder . The same was the case with me . How is it possible ? Inside a fort , people live, earn a living , shop and dine . This is Jaisalmer for you .

The city in the fort. Our very own Sonar Kella. The land of Bhati Rajputs.Named after Bhati Rajput ruler Jaisal, Jaisalmer Fort is situated on Trikuta Hill. Its massive sandstone walls are a tawny lion colour during the day, turning to a magical honey-gold as the sun sets. This is a living fort and about a quarter of city's population still live inside the fort. The main attractions inside the fort are: Raj Mahal ,Jain temples and the Laxminath temple.

The second thing Jaisalmer ia famous for are the Haveli's - The main havelis in Jaisalmer are Patwon-ki-Haveli, a wealthy merchant belonging to powerful Oswal Jain community and banker who had over three hundred trading centres from Afghanistan to China. This ornate five-storey complex took fifty years to complete. This is the largest, the most magnificent, and the most elaborate of Jaisalmer havelis.

Other include Salam Singh-ki-Haveli & Nathmalji-ki-Haveli .

Nearby is the Gadsisar Lake - it is a scenic rainwater lake surrounded by small temples and shrines.Earlier, this lake was used to be the main water source of Jaisalmer.

They say if you don't spend a night at the sand-dunes you don't visit Jaisalmer . A strongly recommended stay is @ SAM DESERT .

About 42 Km from Jaisalmer is the place you will love to be a part of . The camel safari's , the sun-set and sun-rise,the luxury night dance by the Kalbelia dancer's - this is one night you'll never forget . My personal favouite . Make sure you spend a night @ the san-dunes .

Jodhpur

The blue city or the sun city .

It is also referred to as the "Blue City" due to the blue-painted houses around the Mehrangarh Fort. Inside the fort is the temple of - Chamunda Mataji . Crowds throng Mehrangarh during the Dussehra celebrations.There are seven gates, which include Jayapol ,fattehpol . The palm imprints upon these still attract much attention even today.
Within the fort, several brilliantly crafted and decorated palaces are found. One also finds the fort museum comprising several palaces.

Umaid Bhawan Palace, is one of the world's largest private residences. A part of the palace is managed by Taj Hotels this monument has 347 rooms and serves as the principal residence of the erstwhile Jodhpur royal family.

It was indeed a royal trip . On way back we stopped over at Jaipur for obvious reasons . A must eat is - Rawat ji ki kachori's . Lip-smacking delgiht . Do make sure at Sam Sand dunes you stay only at RTDC Sam Dhani cottages / huts as it's the best . Most palaces / forts have entry fees and a guide combination . These guys are a must since it's impossible to know and see the entire place all by yourself.Many stretches enroute's these places will give you a drive of a lifetime. Stop over and see the true colors of Rajasthan . Best time to visit is November - February .

There are certain things which I not shared since I don't want the fun to go away . However, in case of any queries / views - do twitter me @karansayz and I'll help you plan that great escape.

This is all about the real -Bad Girl

2011-12-24T16:36:00.003+05:30

There are two key people in this share - Vinay and Akshara .

This is what happens when time actually flees.I happen to meet Vinay - who is a distance friend and he was in Delhi for a weekend . As always , poor me is running short on time and I thought the maximum I could chat up with him will be half an hour . So I organised a Coffee with Karan session and we met.

Never did I knew that the half an hour , initially thought session will be way over 6 hours and we will be still left with so much of talking. I am sure you must be willing to know "What" in the world did we spoke about ?!

The answer is - A Girl -Akshara.

And I can't believe we spoke and spoke and spoke .

I did wanted to share this with my universe and get in views across the board . This is not something which is new in our system. This is not something which men these days are held responsible for .This is not about a disconnect . This is not just arrogance.This is not about tears.This is more than all this.

Vinay works with a top MNC firm in Mumbai . He , himself is top notch commerce graduate with a PG from top tier school . A girl [ I hate even to say she is a girl ] - Akshara- works in his office .

Akshara -is simply mind blowing . Let me complete before thoughts start taking off . She is full of superbia . She can say anything to anyone across and to an extent she can make people cry . Not many are her friends and since it is a corporate structure you need to be talking to people for work and hence number of poor souls are stuck up with her.

Somewhere this thing was blown up that our dear Vinay is traducing Akshara. [ My personal view - Not possible ] .

And the news reached her ears in a way it goes - layer after layer with inputs and value-add from everyone who feels to add a twist to the story. And guess what . The volcano conflagrated. Akshara took Vinay head on in his office , in front of his entire team [ top to down included ] and clapperclawed him to an extent that Vinay , Akshara and Vinay's boss had to rush to the office cafe for a discussion . This is Akshara for you people.

Just to give a heads-up - Akshara is a topper throughout in her life. Be it at her school , her college and then her B-school . She has been nothing but Number 1 . Her family is into business and she stays in Mumbai's classy arenas . She is one of the few people who are allowed to change a role every year just because she hates her boss and sometimes - the team . She hardly talks to people and when she does - you know what happens. She works till the end and rarely people have seen her talk sweetly to someone or even give a smile.

Back . So our girl - Akshara spoke and spoke in front of poor Vinay's boss till the time she was sure that nothing is left. Those fifteen minutes of her speaking are the worst minutes Vinay and his boss can ever forget of. She abused , she had zero respect for a senior , she did not let Vinay speak and share his point and she went to an extent saying that she will report this to the internal team and make sure Vinay looses his job.

My only query is - Vinay should have spoken . Yes.He did . But when you have Akshara - you just can't . What about his boss - Well, he did . But, the girl is least interested to hear.

And she left . It's been days now . Everything is normal and smooth . Vinay is doing well as always . But still he recalls why it happened . And he has his side of story as well.

Vinay replaced Akshara in a role sometime back . Just as we have handovers Vinay never felt the need to take one from her because the entire team was so supportive that everything was smoothly and nicely executed . And if it was needed he would have spoken to her.

This pissed off Akshara. How in the world - a person - like Vinay - [ who is simple, sweet to talk to , humble and a great human being ] did not approached her . Did not requested for help or inputs . Does not say hi to her whenever they catched eye to eye.

I ask - only one thing - Why ? If I don't like a person , I don't want to talk to him / her - then why am I supposed to say hi ; why am I supposed to even look at her and why in the world will I say negative about her . And no one can force someone to talk . Or to like. Or to love.
Then why .

Well,this is exactly what Vinay thought and still thinks . That story is long over . But all Vinay at times thinks is had he been let to share his view things would have been better. But then if you have a person like Akshara - how in the world can you make her listen , share and put your view . It's simply not possible.

Vinay is settled in life and happily married . He often takes and shares this example in his many leadership summits where people simply are amazed that people like - Akshara exist in our society . Our world.

And how one simple disconnect can ruin a person or two - from ever knowing each other . How much attitude people carry without even knowing that one day - it's all over. All of us will have to die . Nothing will stay on . Then why make enemies. Why make people cry.Why make people suffer. Why be dis-respectful .

As I say - some people never change....and hence Akshara will not get anything good from Santa this year.....

And this reminds me - ❤ WISHING YOU A MERRY XMAS & SEASONS GREETINGS ❤

Some people are like 'Mondays' no matter what you just don't like them!!

Stay happy and spread the joy all around. Everone is busy with his/her role in their small lifetimes.Then why make things worse if you can't make them simple.

btw - I simply love Masterchef . A great and a must watch.

Feels nice - Help

2011-11-25T23:53:00.000+05:30

It's a good feeling . Deep down inside you feel satisfied and calm .I do . Everytime I do . I do :)

Life is not what it gives . It is what you make of what is already there. Moments are spread across. It's only you who needs to have a buy in . Things , places , people - change but the moments keep flowing .

Help - Helping is a beautiful universe in this world. A thought which always comes whenever I hear the word - help - is - wow ! a chance to live better , a chance to do better , a chance to live life .

It can be anything in the cluster of things you do all around . It could be patiently listening to the cab driver when all he knows is about driving and farms and cows and "bhaath" . It could be giving him that small strip of a medicine when is down with fever . It could be writing / helping his son who wants to buy the "latest computer" :) the best way to buy / build one.

It can be your security guard who smiles everytime you walk beside him and hardly anyone smiles back .It could be giving a blanket to keep himself cool when he guards "you" in the winters .

It can be the cute girl whom you see crying for the candy that got dropped onto the ground . It could be wiping her tears and taking her in your arms and telling her that the world is YOU.

It can be the friend who hardly calls you in the years gone by and one fine day calls you to fix an interview since he looking for a job change .

The list just goes on and on . It stops only when you stop living life . It feels really happy deep down within when you help someone . When you lend a helping hand to your mom on your weekends .When you tell your dad that let polish your shoes this time. When you tell your better half forget the cooking , let me order from outside :P

Try helping people wherever whenever however you CAN . It makes a difference . More than that person ; to you . Life is too long to live for yourself and too short to live for others. Try the latter one . Feels nice .

Life in the sky

2011-10-01T18:54:00.001+05:30

:) :)

Things move fast ! And we all move faster ! Life moves smooth ! and we move faster ! Irony !!

Lately,have been so wanting to share / write something to anything but squeezing time was far tougher than squeezing lime . I am still figuring what is keeping me busy . With all the red flags , reminder , planner , to-do things working very hard for me ; still something is a miss . Often it happens that noting / writing doesn't necessarily means doing / closing .

Last week I flew to Chennai . It was an experience in itself . One day trip and a half day session - combined in one. Though ,I had been to the place before , in my growing years I hardly recollect . This time it was a superb journey . My first visit to the stunning T3 which is a massive place to be in . In case you haven't checked it out yet , it's a must visit . But make sure you do not miss your flight :p . The aerobridges were something that caught my eye . Truly world class.Chennai in particular , is not a one day trip visit . There is lot to see and feel . The place is buzzing with vehicles which is a common sight . Temple bells ringing and the aroma of the south Indian cuisine is not far behind . We managed to squeeze out time to the famous - Murugan idli shop @ T nagar and savoured the famous soft idli , ghee pongal [ after which I just couldn't walk ] uttappam & coffee . This is a must visit place .

The Club house road area it a typical South Delhi area and houses some of the known corporate offices. The people I met / interacted were warm and ever smiling . However, the language does take time to understand .

Work keeps me busy and FB and the likes are my only connect these days with the world . Though I would spend more time to talk and meet ; it just doesn't happen . An interesting thing which happened was when I got a call from a matrimony service firm sometime back saying your profile had been shortlisted for a privilege membership and then next thing I asked was - "So you guys are giving / gifting brides to me " :) and the guy was taken aback . These days you never know how fast your money/ virtual world / email's get moved and shared and random people call and take you by shock / surprise .

With the festivities kicking in and the F1 circuit glowing Delhi / NCR is surely buzzing with loads of activity. Hope this season brings in a lot of cheers and fun to all of you !

Don't know how many of us are familiar with the concept of Miles . Whenever you fly / shop ,as case be you earn free miles for every money spent . This is really cool . I never knew and this time , as always ,I made sure that I knew everything about this . So , I applied for this travel card which is the best currently - http://bit.ly/a9cIgj .

Twitter handle - @karansayz

PS - Do read - Lonely Planet - everyday @ night before sleeping . You'll have / get an amazing "dream" . :)

Best wishes for a safe and great festive season ahead !!

Simi Selects India's Most Desirable

2011-07-10T22:21:00.004+05:30

Wow !! I try my best not to miss this show . That explains everything . Sundays @ 9 are eagerly awaited . Not because of the guests that are talked on the show but more about the way the conversation flows .

Rendezvous with Simi , back in time was also one of the most well hosted talk shows . And this shows my love for Star World. If you were / are a keen follower of the shows you will notice the change that has taken place - be the hosting ,the ambiance , the format ,the audience and the guests topped up with the in-between modules and of course Simi's attire . A lot has transformed and why not , after all branding is this.

The guests as always are mostly the tinsel town folks . May be because these people are the most loved , most desired or may be simply because they entertain us . And we as typical Indian's always want to know on what is the new / latest / happening in there lives . And hence , we get hooked.

John Abraham - is a good human being first . Everything else comes later . His recent break-up with Bipasha may have raised eyebrows across but the way "he" has come up and handled the same explains that men are far better in coming out of a break-up . ;)

I would refrain myself from commenting on the if's and the but's in this relationship but I feel strongly, that whatever happens , happens for good . Now that they are parted , I am sure , it must have been a hard and tough time , they will eventually be happy and make progress way forward .

Watching the show today , the way John's parents summed up their thoughts and experiences comes across as a simple family who want the best for their son . On all fronts .

Quote - " No two women can be in the same kitchen " .

It can be taken into many meanings and connotations . These days the youth is so free , independent and makes a call for "space " . This , at the cost of moving out also . So much comes at stake that at times one doesn't realize what is at stake and what is being taken at stake . Individual thoughts , I say.

Often , these days , when I look back into the relationships I have been a part of , thoughts flow haywire . There were times when I thought it was the most beautiful thing to happen . And feeling special is always special .

Often , in time, when you are with that special someone ; you tend to offend / ward off people who always are with you / stood by you. This is when you start loosing yourself , the people and everything else .

Relationships - be with the special someone, be with your associates,peers ,friends even foes are something you are and always be a part of . The way you think /act , communicate decide the fate . In each of our journey of life there are so many incidents where we have been in/out of relationships / people . It's as always as I say - somethings click and some don't . Never forget to connect and share . It's a personal view and thought ,that the more you share / talk / communicate the more you love the relationship . Add a dash of truth and you'll love it.

Relationships are based on trust . Period . A single lie is a sure shot killer ,in near future .

People,are sentimental and emotional . They are loving and caring . It's just the way you nurture the relationship and it develops into something beautiful.

Communication as always is the key .....

Wishing you all a happy relationship !! And do not forget to take the first step . Time is still on .

PS - Did you notice - No tarot for John A and Siddharth M.

Potpourri

2011-05-17T22:19:00.002+05:30

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Investment is an art . And it's true. After all , making your money work for you is not that an easy thing . Each school of thought has it's own story . Some say , let's invest early .Some , well , let me accumulate ,then will start . For some , forget it . I am happy the way things are .

I won't say that I am the best in the business . I am the finance whiz-kid who is so much in demand that meeting him equals seeing the sun and moon rise together . It's just that I am passionate in whatever I do . Banks , financial institutions and the likes have so many good people that I am not even 1% to the knowledge and skills they have . Learning from them is an experience which only you can feel. There is so much to learn and unlearn everyday that it's simply vast.

I always believe, that advising people on money is like telling them sugar free is not the "only" better option . There are many ways to strike your sweet-tooth . For you to become an investment consultant you need to manage your own little money first then stepping into the world where people play safe on you. It's a great line to be in , given the current times and also one of the hardest to stick in .

****

Delhi is burning as always . Summers are always a killer here . Going out and shopping is the last thing I want to be a part of . Dining out was never an option . As was the choice of the places . But somehow, the past year , Greater Kailash , has carved a unique spot on my list. May be this has to do with the number of options this area offers , or the crowd which throngs or may be the proximity or the usual change which everyone looks for . GK , as its shared , is a nice place .Not being diplomatic and politically correct , you get the usual Delhi's elite class out in show . Teenagers , college goers , corporates , lovers , friends - just about everyone . Also,when you talk about GK you relate or hit the "M-Block" for obvious reasons . I prefer the unusual - "N" block . After brothers in arms , the N block is my pic . May be because it's a little less happening , little less crowded and it has this simple feel which I like .

Kasbah - The 4-storied restaurant complex is a recent entry . Of close to a number of visits this place is nice . Nice , in my terms has a different connotation . You can hang out with friends and likes ,spend time , don't watch cricket or just discuss things at length . And you will not know when time has reached the closing . Mannekin - the lounge is my best pick . Not because I am a big lounge fan and I love to just relax and enjoy the music , the ambience of this , is nice . With fiery red all around , tempers may fly high but then that's usual :P

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I like politics . But there's a disclaimer to it . I follow politics , I know people in politics and given a chance I can enter .But,this is a place where things change often . And with each shutters something new comes up . With the recent TMC and AIADMK wins it's clear that change can happen and people once voted out can again come to power . The only thing which makes a winner is the amount of goodwill you have with the voters . And that's a tough call .

****

"True love is a tough find. But then all good things are hard nuts to crack.So keep fighting . Keep searching . And the sun will rise" - I said these to a dear friend when she kept on crying on and on and as everyone knows I hate tears ,so I had to bring the smile back on .These worked . Heartbreaks , in fact, anything that breaks is a never-to-be-joined -again case. Be practical at times and be flexible on the rest . Things are not that hard that we can't come out of them . I can write on and on and share my thoughts and give speeches to all those folks and birds tweaking but then I am exclusive :P.

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Astrology - Well, I'll leave this for some other time . You need to meet me to get my views on this one . And as for the financial planning , well , nothing comes for free ....;)

--If you too are bored of munni and sheila - check this out - http://bitly.com/jFEbmU

It's a YES with a pinch of NO

2011-03-13T20:28:00.002+05:30

I have been attending a lot of marriages this 2011 .And when I say a lot , it means a lot.

First there was this Indian born Australian Hindu boy getting married to an Australian girl .

Then it was a Polish girl getting happily married with a Haryanavi thakur boy.

Not to forget,the cute Delhi Punjabi munda exchanging vows with the ever beautiful Bengali bride.

These are just a few ones. There were a lot many.

Love today is expanding.Beyond boundaries and limits.It's all over. People getting hooked online and sharing wedding invites on email's are a common phenomena. Just yesterday I was attending a Muslim reception and to my surprise it was simply beautiful.Time has changed a lot and so , I guess, the love too.It's more than just liking or loving someone . It's more than just searching for someone who fits in the family household.It's something words can't describe.

After all this , it makes me wonder which one do I settle for ? Not that too many options I have , now ;)

Should I settle down to the love [ I am still not sure,if its love ] of eight years and see how life changes ?

Should I marry someone who is so close to my folks that they know they'll be happy having her around ?

Should I say yes to the Muslim girl who , I know,in the hearts of heart loves me ?

Should I cry , wipe out and full with positivity go back in time and tell that special someone of my college days , that it's time we make up and settle down ?

Should I try my hand out at that person whom I really liked in my management training days .So what if she was elder to me?

Should I wait and see if I can get engaged to an "angrez" ?

Should I be with someone whom I know is my opposite and hates me , but deep down I think we are paired ?

Should I get into a relationship with someone who already has done something that one only imagines after marriage ? And I know ,if we are together we will rock !

Should I have tried to pursue my parents not to let that "Bengali" girl get married so soon ?

Should I wait and watch like my childhood buddy did ? Wait for the parents to act and then settle down with a cute simple family girl ?

Should I try for that highly intellect Bangalore girl who's family simply adores me ?

Should I say "yes" to that person with whom I have been chatting all along in this journey ?

Sometimes , somethings are to be left just the way they are .After all , miracles do happen.And so does cataclysms.Life is more than just being with someone . It's a whole wide world out there.And yes,there is a lot of value-to be added from your presence.

In the meantime you figure out what I have just shared - do listen to this -

http://bit.ly/asLXmx

Also,the views / relations / religions shared / expressed are not to be misquoted or misinterpreted :)

You can also share your views / follow me at my twitter handle @karansayz besides the usual FB and emails.

Wishing you all a happy life !! :)

Life is Beautiful and so are YOU

2011-01-09T22:42:00.001+05:30

I hope and pray the New Year for you all & me is a great one to cherish for long.

Out here in Delhi , it's been a crazy winter-spell .There was a time back may be a close decade ago when I was in MSM that I used to love Delhi winters. Just the entire winter attire - the tie,the shirts ,trousers,sweaters and above all the MSM Blazer . It used be a complete formal corporate look . [ which my "to-date" corporate attire lacks :( :( ] School days were fun & simply awesome.

But , not only time has changed , the "mausam"also. Be it the growing pollution , population or global warming , the winters in Delhi are simply yuk and so tough . Thank god for little mercy on us but it makes me shiver what the not-so good-to-do people do and manage . Shit....

I don't usually get time for watching or catching up on my favourite shows these days . But,somehow whenever I switch the idiot box there are a whole bunch of idiots who are giving all kinds of gyaan . And the sad part is - they call themselves - astrologers , palmists , numerologists and feng-shui experts and all sorts of craps names.The worst - people from all across call them and within seconds get the queries resolved . I wonder how and why ? And I am sure they too think the same.

People who know me , clearly know that I am strong supporter of astrology and respect people who are really talented and trained and have just one motive in mind - to help people.Not money . But for the impatient lot we are everyone wants to know the future and at an amazing speed and time . Not possible . Time takes it's own call . If a thing has to happen it happens . People come to such people and ask - " that if my wife tries hard she can have the baby come out an hour later or may be a day later" !! Will it help ?

I can't believe this . And then you say one is educated . Belief is something , trust is something and not using your mind is something . Gosh !! I tell you.

People and folks often ask me about relationships and marriage from time to time . And I ,for the helper I am , suggests and helps them out. But then they keep on changing and revolving from one "prospective" partner to another and I keep wondering.....what do I make of it. !!

If "you" love someone , you love. If "you"hate someone you hate . What's the other side to it ?!! I don't get it . Giving chances , for things to work out is good , but them time-line is also important . If you like or love someone , just say it . May be it seems tough but then sharing a thought or a feeling is the most beautiful thing in the world.Give the other person time to revert and then positively thinks will be sweet.And if the other person does not revert , koi na , ask again...some people are just so sweet and innocent that you need to put in and go that extra mile . After all , as they say acche log milte kahan hai.....so worth the effort.

But,the bottom line remains the same - Be true and have trust . Never hide.I can say this from experience . If you have trusted someone , trust completely . And I am one of the strong supporters of this . And things will turn out to be good.

So, thanks for reading and now just pick that phone / BB / text / email / sms / call or drop-in for a coffee and say it from your heart....everything.....to him/her [ even if its ages since you connected ] ..2011 has just started .......it's never too late....happens...

PS - Before closing will give you one tip from my "gyaan ka piitaaraa" - Stop eating "sour" things [ gol-gappas / paani-purri's , pickles and the likes.... ] and see your relationships become sweet . Try and let me know . After all , I am talented and very helpful too...

Love you all and keep yourself covered ...........and warm :) :)

Royal Rajasthan Tour

2010-12-24T12:38:00.010+05:30

"It's been a long time since I shared my thoughts here. But believe me , the mind is a free bird ,unlike the heart ,which gets involved in every single moment , mind takes it own sweet time to sail across." ~ Karan

I was planning a small vacation out from the mad-rush of Delhi life since ages and Rajasthan was the place ever since I wanted to pay a visit. The royals , the palaces , the culture , the heritage and simply the spectacular color of life - the people of Rajasthan !!!

So,this time I decided to head to this paradise in India and three of its most "wanted" divisions - Jaipur , Ajmer and Udaipur .

Here's a small tour of the beautiful paradise on earth Rajasthan and my journey across .

Jaipur

Jaipur - Pink city , all are updated . But this is the "old Jaipur" . Time has it and what locals say that the architect's of the city had no color left except for Pink [ Gulabi - as it's called ] and hence they painted the city Pink . Temples , forts , museums and shopping .Jaipur has it all.

The known places which are a must visit are - City Palace Complex which gives an insight into the imposing and magnificent architecture of the city and also houses the famous Hawa Mahal.

Gardens - The Kanak Vrindavan is an exquisitely land scaped garden with a beautifully carved temple in beige stone.Sisodia Rani Ka Bagh is a garden laid out in Mughal style and it depicts the legends of Radha and Krishna.It consists of tiered multi-level gardens with fountains, watercourses and painted pavilions. Sawai Jai Singh built it for his Sisodia queen from Udaipur. The palace has several galleries, pavilions and beautiful murals depicting scenes from the life of lord Krishna.

Jantar Mantar - Unlike the one back in Delhi , this one is the "baap" of precisions. [ Though I was hardly involved in this..... ] .

Temples - A vital part of the City Palace complex, this Krishna temple has been highly revered by the erstwhile royal family. Sawai Jai Singh installed the image of Govind Devji (an incarnation of lord Krishna) after it was brought from Vrindavan and hence called as Govind Devji Temple.Moti Dungri [ pearl hill ] and Ganesh Temple are also a must visit provided you allocated decent time to Jaipur and have the capacity to climb and move on in the striking winter sun of Jaipur.The Lakshmi - Narayan Temple known as Birla Mandir is situated just below the Moti Dungari.

Forts - As they say , Rajasthan is all about Forts . True . The Jaigarh fort is the most spectacular of the three-hilltop forts that overlook Jaipur. In Mughal times, the Jaipur region was a major weapon-producing centre for the Mughal and Rajput rulers, several of the weapons being on display in the fort's museum. It also houses the giant mounted cannon-the Jai Ban (Jaivan) which is the largest cannon on wheels in the world . A must visit . The second in line is the - Nahargarh Fort is located on the rugged ridge of Aravali Hills and it forms an impressive northern backdrop of Jaipur. It looks most classy when floodlit at night.The third and most coveted is the Amber Fort (pronounced Amer) is situated about 11 kilometres from Jaipur and was the ancient citadel of the ruling Kachwahas of Amber, before the capital was shifted to the plains, the present day Jaipur. It houses the famous Shila Devi Temple.

Shopping - The Johari Bazar is a must visit shopping arena lcoated in Old City . Shopping in Jaipur is an experience oof sorts for the fair sex . From lengha choli, ghagra choli, bridal lehnga [ with a genuine price advantage ] to sarees and the whole gamutinterested. Other shopping places are MI Road and stalls at Bari & Choti Chaupurs. The markets are generally closed on Sundays.

of ladies attire . Also, Jaipur is famous for Jaipuri quilts a must buy . In addition , beautiful gems, semi precious stones, kundan and minakari work are also available ,if you are

Chokhi Dhani - A unique theme village and resort . I found out simply ok-ok . But the branding it has done and the position it has created is simply admirable . Charges a hefty entry price of Rs 500/head for a decent meal and inside ambience . Shopping and other stiff is a pay-purchase basis. [ http://www.chokhidhani.com/home.html ]

Ajmer - Pushkar

That's how it's called in a combo . And it's limited to these two places unless you are a Mayo college alumni .Ajmer is a popular pilgrimage centre for the Muslims as well as Hindus. Especially famous is the Dargah Sharif-tomb of the Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti . A must visit and very sacred.

Pushkar [ Pilgrim City ] - This is the only existing temple - Pushkar Temple - dedicated to lord Brahma and was constructed in the 14th century.The pious Pushkar Lake is believed to have been created by the falling of a lotus from the hand of Lord Brahma. Divine.

Udaipur

City of Lakes / White City / Venice of the East. Whatever you call - It's simply beautiful . With the lakes on one end and the famous Monsoon Palace (Sajjan Garh Fort ) on the hill above enhances the beauty of this magnificent city

City Palace Towers over the Pichola Lake are a first start and a must visit to begin your Udaipur experience. Guides are available for all the best places across Rajasthan especially forts and temples and it's an viable option to opt for one since they know the history of the place well and the routes and are a good bet when you're running against time. Govt.approved ones are the best bet on pricing . Crystal Palace - Situated in the Fateh Prakash Palace, it has a breath taking collection of crystals. These were ordered by Maharana Sajjan Singh from F & C Osler England but could not live to see them because of his untimely death. Jag Mandir Palace - This is the other island palace on Lake Pichola The island has some striking carvings including a row of elephants that look like guarding the island. Lake Palace is "the place" to take a stroll around . A Taj managed property ,its superb beauty and enduring charm and its reflection in the middle of the lake is simply awe-striking. Fateh Sagar Lake - The beautiful lake is a boating destination for visitors and the boat ride takes one to the small beautiful park located in the middle of the lake.

Gardens - Sahelion Ki Bari - The 'garden of the maidens' brings to mind the lifestyle of the ladies of the court. The delightful gardens reflect their discreet and impeccable taste.

Maharana Pratap Memorial (Moti Magari) - An impressive bronze statue of Maharana Pratap on his favourite horse Chetak, stands atop the Moti Magri (Pearl Mount) overlooking Fateh Sagar.

Temples - Jagdish Mandir - the temple enshrines a black stone image of Lord Vishnu. There is a brass image of Garuda, the Lord of Birds, and mount of Vishnu .

Eklingji - It is a complex of 108 temples on Udaipur-Nathdwara route. There are hills around and small springs of water. The temples are exquisitely carved out of sandstone and marble and are devoted to Lord Shiva, the family deity of the Mewar rulers.The Maharanas of Mewar, worshipped Shiva as Mahadeva Chaumukhi, the quadriform divinity, represented by a bust with four faces.

Shree Nath Ji- Nathdwara -Means the gateway to the Lord. This great Vaishnavite shrine is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The legend has it that the image of Lord Krishna was being shifted to a safer place from Vrindaban in order to protect it from being desecrated and vandalized by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. When the image reached the spot where the temple exists, the wheels with the axle of the bullock cart carrying the image sank deep into mud. Human efforts failed to move the cart further. The accompanying priest interpreted this as the Lord's indication to be installed at this spot. Accordingly a temple was built here.

Karan's General Gyaan

The best time to visit Rajsthan is October - March [ Avioding Christmas and holdiays rush ] .

Guides are like honey bees and will stick to you no matter what . Be a smart visitor and mould them around . They need you more than vice-versa.

For staying - RTDC [ Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation ] hotels / resorts / motels are the best bet , incase you have family / relatives /connects to arrange for your stays . Plan and book in advance .

For temples / shrines - Keep your credit cards /cell phones / blackberry's / cam coders etc. at safe places . The best , don't bring / carry them . These places are full of Pickpockets . Carry limited cash .

Locals are a great help - If lost , do not hesitate to ask the locals around for directions / way out . A great help in place.

All the forts / complexes / gardens - have a decent entry fees and separate charges for cameras . Make sure you read the instructions well before buying .

Always keep a local guide book handy in case you miss out on things .

AND THE BEST THING -

Whenever you are planning for a trip , do let me know . I can be of great help for the curious traveler , I am .

There are many things which I have kept safe :) .

Also , you can follow me on twitter - @karansayz ; FB ; and always drop in an email for any queries.

For more pictures of my trip - FB !!

Live the moments......Love life.......

2010-10-09T19:08:00.003+05:30

Thoughts and thoughts and some more thoughts !!
That's what ALL I am doing these days !

Besides,tracking the markets,portfolio's of my clients,meeting some "big" people ,cracking big deals and hanging out at never before places,thinking thoughts is what I am into these days.

Most of the day,week,month ends up-working . Friday's seems to be a distant future.Sunday nights become sleepless with the thought of Monday's approaching.

To add to this there is so much of driving,meetings,conference calls and "gyaan" from all around that I feel my life is just not mine.There are good and super good moments as well and the near so , bad and angry bursts are not very far.

But this is life . Right ? That's the way we take it.

Months before it was so cool,chilled out and free flowing.Now when I reconnect to all those pals all around,it's more or less the same story and the same share. Corporates or non-corporates.Sab same hi hai...

This world is different.People here in are far different .Or may be after being a post-gradaute and a "smart"chap that I am , I am able to see those "unviewed" sides of people.There is learning all around from everyone.Everyone is doing a great job . Everyone is making sure everyone else is doing a great job too.

It's a tough world . I have stopped watching movies,serials or for that matter the good old TV.Newspapers are just Mint and ET and that too on a fast track.Weekends are just for relaxing and summarising the week gone by and planning the week ahead . The "to-do" lists just keeps climbing however,good I am at cutting. :P

Dear friends call me "banker" now and I have no clues if the "Karan" in me has changed or is he still the same.

The parties are just - drinks and snacks with loud music.Period.But a good way to unwind and just chill....

Be it the Big Chill @ Kailash ; Gola's / Moets @ DefCol ; Kasbah @ GK ...and the list goes on . More than these I love just sitting and relishing the walnut pie @ Angels in my kitchen. It's simply yum.

Life simply moves on.It's like a train journey.The views keeps on changing and so the people sitting all around you.But in this fast speed journey take time for all those special people and special moments that are uncomparable to anything in lieu.

PS-Recently a dear friend asked what is it being with Karan for one whole day .So I thought I shall give a small glimpse of the same.You can call me /email me /FB me . In that order.After all,time kahan hai....:P

This Navratri light the lamp of happiness, prosperity and knowledge.Happy Navratri to all of you

Partner

2010-09-05T17:22:00.001+05:30

Heya , [ that's my new found greeting word ]

Well,Shillong is beautiful . Infact,as a matter of fact the entire North Eastern part of India is simply splendiferous.Of late besides TLC [ my favourite channel on air ] ,NDTV good times is a good bet. A beautiful documentary / show was on air . It showed the brilliant Tripura Castle and the royal King PBK Manikya. Do google and you'll know our India a lot better.Next time when planning a vacation do visit this part of India. You'll love it.

Have you watched Partner ? In case yes, nice .In case no,no worries. The other day on my way to a friend's place me and my associate had a gala time . Girls love to talk and I am too good with listening. We were discussing about this song from Dabang: Munni Badnaam Hui and then Salman and the discussion flew into "partner" .

I recalled when way back in school we used to have this thing of "taking partners" . MSM - my alma matter allowed to shift / change our "benchers" / "partners" when we moved to next grades or even in-between the same grades as well.We always wanted "that" guy [ since it was a boys only school ] whom we were on best terms. The terms could be different - playing,eating,studies,family friends,or just buddies. I always looked forward to having my bestest people around . Even if it meant the immediate back-seat or the front ones.Strategy,since then was in-built in me as this helped in the exams :P

Into my engineering college the circle expanded and it became as a "gang" . More people more fun and more "gyaan". It continued till MBA days, off and on though.

This associate of mine was "highlighting" the importance of "someone" being with you always .But as I always say -"hamesha ki liye toh kuch nahein hota".People come and go . Life moves on . How many times have you talked with all those people who were with you in "that"phase of life. Phases change,people change and new flow comes in. Very difficult , though,there may be some who have friends right from the start.Treasures I must say.

But ,why do we need them ? Can't we be alone ? After all life is ever moving. You come alone and go alone.You change places,firms and even countries.People come and go.Life becomes busy and at times , let apart friends / partners you don't get time for yourself also.

But still you desire that at least "some" people are always with you.And at times when you need them the most you face the fact that yes,there are some.

There are a couple of "connects" / "partners" which I have . I just randomly call them / text them / email them . We could have been out of touch since ages but it's just that "feeling of connect" that makes me reach for them .

I don't know how to put it but believe me people - old and new are all very precious.Take time to connect with them. And "time" is the only thing which is running short.For all of us...

PS - Have been busy...at times and fainéant .So,a delay in replies. You can connect with me on twitter / FB / linkedin / orkut . Have become more "connected" now..

Time hai kya - smile na then....

2010-08-08T19:10:00.002+05:30

An associate of mine @ work recently asked- "Karan,I think you work a bit too much. How is your blogging going". ?

And I said -"Ohh !! yeah !!~ Blogging..."

Here I am.

Now I can have a fellow understanding of all those people - sorry -corporates - who say that we are BUSY.We really don't get time.It's work and more work. Days,months and years.....

I agree.I have seen my time wash away.Days and weeks. Weekends and those moments of peace. Work is gaining "the" priority.

I'll share with you a funny incident which happened recently. We were suppose to meet this top-honcho of a top firm . He stays in GK -2 . I had the address and the connects and fixed up a meeting with this person. On the day , as usual we rushed . Delhi traffic made sure we were BANG on time . But guess what , instead of GK-2 we reached GK-1 .Same house number but with a different name plate . And I said -" fish" . How is this possible.".

The associate said ,I'll check . And yes we were at the right house but in a wrong locality.

Who to be blamed ? Keep thinking....

A dear friend from the US said - " Need to take little less pressure of work.US is superb.Fixed timings.Gym and swimming.Parties and pubs.It's all so nice and serene.Look at Delhi.I can't have good food and water let alone clean roads".

Life becomes so so hectic at times that all you feel is running away to a place which is - DIFFERENT.

Not possible for many . Try doing things that make you smile.

Was reading an article of late , which shared some nice insights into making people's life glow. A senior @ work asked me - "you must be busy on the weekends ." . To which I said - " weekends are meant for relaxing.So whatever you do , with whomever you wish to , spend time , chit-chat and just be happy. Small moments are the key to all things in life . If you loose them and hunt for the big ones , it's like I'll pray only in a temple ,not in my small mandir @ home .

Choices and choices !!

This August - grab a bite of the delicious -Ghevar !! Simply....yummy....

PS- A friend said to me recently - "It's time that you...................." phir kabhi......

Get well soon - tiger

2010-07-16T19:04:00.001+05:30

This one is important.

Today morning I got a text from a colleague . Still in my "processing mode" I managed to read - " Do Pray for him ."

Just by reading this line I was numb. Gaining cognizance I read the entire text.

A colleague of mine met with an accident at the ill-famed DND flyover . He was admitted to the ICU . No one knows what really happened . He was critical.

I rushed to the office and sensed something was losing. The usual cheerful faces were in "no-mood" tags today.Everyone seemed to be in that same thought.We managed to make our way out of the office to the hospital.

Believe me , I loose my energy and myself everytime I walk into a hospital. The entire scene makes me dead.And more, when you are headed to the ICU . He was in the ICU and the usual "daring" Karan wasn't able to walk past the entry door.The entire family was outside and the guard said to me - " Only one person at a time".

I managed to get inside , praying and looking all around . There was nothing but HOPE. I saw him and I felt so disenabled that all I could do was to stand there. I met him the previous evening and never I knew that I'll be witnessing him today like this.Just managed to control my tears I just couldn't stay there. I went out .

Hospitals,blood,injections,needles and the piercing make me think always why life gives us this ?

Driving kills. It's true. Drive safe . Please. Everyone is someone's someone . One moment of your speed thrust can wash away the entire generations of a family.

I hope he gets well soon and for all those - Please be safe.

Wedding and the Venue !!! - Indian Style - City Explored

2010-07-06T20:05:00.001+05:30

I love writing. Everyone knows. But I like sharing too .Now you know. :)

I have wanted to visit Lucknow ever since I heard about it. And it happened.

One of my close friends is from Lucknow. Now based in the Middle East her marriage was in Lucknow and poor I gave it a miss. Thanks to my MBA.No further thinking required :P

However, this time when one of my dear engineering college batch mate from Lucknow was getting married I made sure that I am a part of it.

So, it all started by my way of planning in advance. There were step-ins and step-outs of a number of people which made the entire plan on hold.However,as destiny has it, the tickets were done as what Dad always says – “end of the 11th hour”. At last I and a friend were ON to be a part of this Indian grandeur.

We decided to get the Lucknow Shatabdi for going and Jet flight for flying back to Delhi .Time as always was short.

After four long years I met Harshit. The same “Java Nut “. No change. Only this time he was getting married. And that’s a big thing.

The train was on time and believe me the sight of the Charbagh Railway Station was a delight. The architecture, the build. It all made me feel why Lucknow is associated with the nawabs.The entire journey to his place was simply beautiful. With parks all around dedicated / build around some themes, the clock tower, the Vidhan Sabha, King Grants Medical College, the GPO, convention center everything in and around here is famous. People – the rich and the not so all think / believe themselves to be nawabs, I guess.

Harshit’s family made sure that we get a taste of the famous Lucknavi cuisine & the even more famous – zara nawazi / atithi satkar. From the famous malai ki gilori to the paans to the even more paani ka batasha and the ever flowing basket chaat. We ate and ate. Lucknow has so much to offer. Each Chowk, each ganj is famous in its own sweet way. All you need to do is to find a local and explore the insight of Lucknow.

An important thing to highlight here is that this is probably my first wedding which I sat through right from the baarat to the wedding venue to the hawan, from the pheras to the power dinner with the new couple and everything part of it.

Indian weddings are tiring. Believe me. I could relate to poor Harshit wearing a beautiful ensemble [sherwani] in the Lucknow heat and sweating and sitting all through his ceremonies. It’s tough.

Two people who need a special mention are – the groom’s mom and the bride’s father. Both these people were simply superb. May be because of the marriage or what, they had this unusual charm and positivity in them which made them work constantly without breaks right throughout. Kudos to them!!! A big day for them, indeed!

Lucknow is famous for many things .Since the time was short we decided to pick the best one out. Bara Imambara. Bara means big, and an imambara means a shrine. The Bara Imambara is among the grandest buildings of Lucknow.The place is simply as other heritage sites beautiful .Manicured lawns the in and out are all great. It houses a famous “bhool-bhulaiya” [maze] which without a local guide is tough crack. A must visit when in Lucknow.

It was tiring but enjoyable. The Lucknow airport is one terminal place .Short and simple. Made some new friends and met some great people. Learnt a little more about India and yes a whole lot about the great Indian weddings.

PS - Tired to the core. But still loving it. All the best to Harshit for a great married life . And Lucknow - may be next time soon....more to be explored. And please don't start asking me - "Karan,when are you getting married" . ;)

Zindagi .....do pal ki..............

2010-06-29T20:54:00.000+05:30

Nothing great happening. Koi na….Read on....

Well, was driving through the busy lanes of Delhi last evening and came across a beautiful park. The sight of it made me stop and just look around what all was happening.

So, I decided to poke in my ear / eyes and hear / see what all were people up to.

Who’s WHO?

We had our “old” / senior ladies chit-chatting about the religious stuff.

The “seniors” / gents were taking a stroll, talking about the government policies and the yes! The rains.

The housewives [may be ex-corporates :)] were baby-sitting and believe me, as always, the little ones were adorable. Innocent .Not giving a shit about what is happening around. Least concerned if “The” Karan is present. They were simply too busy to be free

The “young” ones were playing. Playing here is a bit different. The “big” boys were protecting their”little”sisters. Some were playing in the mud and doing some form of construction which even major real estate developers will find hard to imitate. The others were playing “bat-ball” and there were some girls playing “stapu” [if that’s how it’s spelled].

YOU – must have passed through one of these stages sometime soon. Or may be you are in one of these. Or you will be moving into one, soon.

Did you happen to do this? Will you be doing this? Or is something better you have lined up?

We keep thinking and thinking .God only knows what we think. And then Time up.

There is so much to do and believe me time is ample. You need to plan and prioritize. What is in “real” needed of you? Then you should just do it. There is no right time or right moment.It all depends how well you are prepared to go .

Think and let me know!!

PS – Month end in banks are a tough time. Sachi.....

Mirror cracking material

2010-06-18T19:56:00.003+05:30

For a good number of days - I have been saying " Delhi is HOT ". And guess what ? It is . Still .Today,I was commuting with a confrère in one of Delhi's most swishest arenas - Sainik Farms.

And a strange thing happened today.

The roads here are so narrow that driving becomes knotty,many a times.And one of the Skoda's smashed the driver's side view mirror. And it "cracked".

The confrère,shared with me that the cracked mirror is a sign of bad luck . And guess what ? It brings bad luck for seven years . But that is only if you see your image in it. I guess, we didn't.

Does it really happen that ways ? Seven years straight away gone ? No good luck ? No blessings ? No best wishes would count ? All the hardwork you do will be zeroed ? All that "good" which the seven years were to bring to you would go or get delayed ?

We Indian's are a superstitious lot . We do number of things . And we follow and believe a hundred others.

My personal inclination towards Indian Astrology , at times makes me question so many matters that the grey cells stop responding.If you start believing so many things by so many people / books / the entire domains how will you survive ?

I'll share with you some common things -

--Do not cross if a cat crosses you.

--Do not wear black on Saturdays.

--If someone sneezes you better sit still for a while.

--If you drink milk then do not ,without flushing your mouth with water step out.

--If someone sees you with "strange"eyes and makes three glances and "nazar" lag gaye.

--In a mandir , the females are required to take the "tika" on your hand only and then apply it.

--The "kalira's" if fallen on the head of prospective girl , the marriage takes place fast.

I have a whole lot of this to go on. But these are just views .Some believe them.To the core.Some don't.

It's for you to decide what to do and what not do. Destiny won't change.But then you can't stop breathing saying I am doing yoga so that I control my breath and live longer.

As I say ,strange world. Strange people.

PS- I haven't watched Raajneeti . And someone is to be blamed !! :) :)

SIIB - 2008-10

2010-06-09T19:53:00.001+05:30

So, the cat is out. And I am not searching for it now.

Last week my final semester result got declared. And it was a great feeling. A happy one indeed. I am now an MBA in International Business. These two years [2008-2010] have been truly special. I still recall the day when I came to Pune  Symbiosis [SIIB]  Hinjewadi for the first time for my GD / PI.

At that time I thought will I get through? If yes, will I be able to handle the pressure? Can I put in more than 6-8 hours of classroom teaching and an equal number of study hours? Will I be able to get an MBA? Will I Pass?

Now, when I look back I simply smile. I have passed, got an MBA and yes it’s mid - 2010. Time as always has moved and I too have moved from this phase of my life. It was a great journey. Unique people unique ways of working. Relationships, heartbreaks, moments of smile, achievements, recognition, job , great friends for life , networking, LinkedIn , FB and a whole lot of skill set that I acquired .

When I joined my MBA preparatory classes like any other student I too thought it to be a tough walk. Education, in India, especially, is competitive. This makes it further tough. The amount of hard work I have done, the number of things I have been through have made me all the more mature and understanding. It’s a great experience and I certainly now know the difference between a full time MBA and a part-time one.

I too have accumulated so much of “gyaan” like others that I can talk / speak / share about anything and everything under the sun. Something which MBA’s are master of.

It was a great time and as they say all’s well that ends well.

So cheers to the batch of 2008-10 and a big thanks to my, now, Alma matter – Symbiosis Institute of International Business, SIIB, Pune, India.

Will miss and cherish ……

Kuch Kum Gili Hai Baarishein.....

2010-06-08T14:29:00.001+05:30

Delhi and rains – not a much known combination. But when it becomes one, it’s beautiful. It’s pouring in Delhi for the last two days –off and on, though.

Today, in the early morning I decided to go on a small drive in my arena. It was beautiful. Now I envy people who wake up early every day go for a jog, a stroll, hit the gym or just walk and chit-chat. It’s so nice out there.

My windscreen had small droplets of water coming in every nano seconds. If you have time do try looking into this wonderful phenomena.Everytime when you don’t use the wiper the tiny drops come in and fill the screen .And when you put the wiper on then also they don’t stop. At times they might irritate you and at times you would love them.

I stopped my car and the wiper and let the rain drops accumulate on the screen. These tiny ones covered the entire the screen in a few seconds and I just couldn’t stop myself seeing all this. And half an hour down I was just seeing this.

And when you have some good music playing what more do you want.

Life at times unleashes so much troubles and hardships to us that no matter how much cleaning and organizing you do they just don’t get over. But rains aren’t forever. Nor are the hardships. You too shouldn’t give up that easily. Take everyday as a challenge and learn from it. Learn and strive to enjoy what you do. You can give up anytime. Have you ever thought it takes so less a time to disconnect a call from someone whom you don’t wish to talk. Just that “red button” would do the trick. But hear people out .If someone has called you in they want to talk /share something. Try giving them some chance.

Delhi is awesome these days. And my weekends come and go so fast that hardly came to know that May is over. Such is life dearies….

PS – Heard Brazil is the top favorite for the FIFA. Let’s see...

Shikayat......zindagi mein reh gaye........

2010-06-05T09:03:00.005+05:30

Stop complaining!! I know it's been so long, but I was really busy!!

That's life - in a nutshell.

The wishes never cede to finish and the complains never seems to less.

 My friend - is no longer my friend -Shikayat.

 I just wanted my grand mom to be with me this day. Why did she go away so fast - Shikayat.

 She loved me and I loved her. We hate each other now - Shikayat.

 Why the hell I bought this Nokia E72 .Blackberry was better - Shikayat.

 Wish I scored an A+ than B - Shikayat.

 Mom and Dad gave up all the things for me. Yet I talk to them rudely -Shikayat.

 I love praying. But this faineance kills me - Shikayat.

 I want to quit smoking, But I can't - Shikayat.

 There is so much to do. All around. But how – Shikayat.

 I want to travel the world. Meet new people –Shikayat.

 Only if I said to her –“Don’t go. I need you in my life things would have been so better –Shikayat

 I didn’t wish him on his birthday – Shikayat

 I knew she was upset. But I made no effort to listen or talk to her – Shikayat

 I didn't answer his calls .I was pissed off . And now it's too late - Shikayat

Life, everyday gives us so many chances to do so many things that we want to do but something sometimes you just can’t help. Then –complain. Believe me life as it seems is no less good for others and no less bad for you. It’s all how you take it. Start doing things you like. The days, the hours won’t increase. Yes, the “shikayat”list would go down as they say – “life is what we make of it. People come and go.It’s all about how you want your life to be that it becomes that way. Something like water. It takes the shape of anything in which you try to keep it in”.

Try doing things in life which you always thought of.Complains arise from not doing things we really want to.Start today.Start now.Life would end.But at least you'll feel happy that you called "her"up to wish her on her birthday even if it was late..........

PS-Working would be so hectic never did I thought . Waking up @ 6 in the morning 7 days would be routine.Stop complaining - baby Karan ;)

MOM and .....Aashna :) :)

2010-05-15T21:28:00.000+05:30

It's been so long !!

But believe me - Delhi is a nothing but -TRAFFIC JAMS - all around - huh !!

I was talking to cousin of mine in the US and she told me US is all but traffic jams . Gosh !! Why can't it be the way in India !

She mentioned about a colleague of hers .

This female is Ramya . She's an engineer and a MBA .and yes - from the "II* , ones ] and a great professional.

But a slight twist.

She is no longer working . She handles her family.

Man !! I mean wow !!

But , its a long thing.

Readers ,this is something I wanted to share with you all.

Ramya had an excellent background . School , graduation , post graduation . A great company to work for. And , yes, a great designation.

Then what happened ? Why did she left ?

I love these things about Indians. They do everything passionately. And yes,the heart is involved.Always.

She left her job . For her family. For the cute little adorable - Aashna.

No.
Rajiv [ her husband ] never told her to do so. Neither her parents nor her in-laws.

She took an individual thoughtful decision . And she took it on her own.

And like always,she gave her 100% into this as well. Meet Aashna and you'll know why !

Moms world over do an amazing job.They are the best. Inequitable and unmatchable.
They work.The live.They earn.
They cry.They smile.They suffer.

All for YOU.For US.

Imagine a world without mom's. You can't.
Because rivers are not meant to be empty.

And mind you, I am not advocating the fact that females , working , should give a successful career to be full-time in the family.All I am saying is that they are free to do / choose whatever they think is right.When one gets married responsibilities increase so does the workload and pressure.It's a tough time these days and even tougher to survive and be successful.Both the partners should take an informed and a win-win decision.The child is important.In fact,precious.Don't get carried away with the fast moving life and the "charmed"designations we have.Be prepared to give up things and do "things" you never thought of.Be a helping hand and a support system to each other.

Life would be far better. And exciting.

PS - views are views. But life is tough . at times. very tough.

The TAJ and more.....

2010-05-02T12:41:00.001+05:30

Well,it's been so long....

Believe me ,I was really tied up with my training and examinations.

And, still am. But what MBA's do is they do "all" things - smartly.

Me and my newly formed 'gang" decided to head out towards the - TAJ MAHAL.

On a Saturday night,with bomb scares all around the mercury soaring high it was an 'ok' decision we made.

So,we headed out. Started @ close to 7am and on the way reached the first halt.

Fatehpur Sikri -

At times at places like these you tend to get "provoked" by so-called "guides" [ who themselves don't even know that a Fatehpur Sikri - exists in Rajasthan as well ] and still swear that if you don't take them along with you , you'll miss a lifetime of opportunity.

BALLS !!

But,somehow we managed to get a decent guide who was further decent enough to take us to a guided tour - all in Rs50. He showed us all around, shared the story behind the world heritage site and made us understand that India is 'the place" to be . At times it pays to have a guide with you. These people know things you wouldn't even think to see for yourself.Below is the picture which we took from a "star jaal" which when clicked at a certain angle gives a full view of the place. Awesome !

The next in line was the Taj-itself. Though I had visited the Taj ,once before,it still catches me awe-struck each time.It's simply beautiful.The place,the carvings,the design,the mini-lakes - it works.We hired a guide here as well. And I was super impressed by his command on the history behind the Taj,his English speaking skills and the fact he doubled up as a good-photographer and kept clicking various pictures from various "famous"points.It was an experience.

On our way back,we spend almost one hour back-forth searching for two places - McD which we "saw" but never recalled "where"?! and Agra's famous "Paanchi Petha" shop.It took us so hard to find them out .

In case you would be willing to grab a bite - I'll help with it. McD is located in the TDI mall with the Big Cinema's in it's vicinity. A nice mall unlike ours in Delhi / NCR it's a good stop.As for the petha , UP is famous for "duplicates". You would find shops by the names - " NEW panchi petha " , Original Panchi Petha and the likes". Of course they would always swear that they are the "original ones" which they aren't . The original shop is near Sadar Bazaar.

All in all a nice journey though tiring .

btw-have an exam tomorrow... ;)

Jewel of Delhi

2010-04-16T13:30:00.000+05:30

This was on hold for a while !!

For reasons unknown to me :0

But,since now it's done it's worth a mention.

A friend of mine recently visited Delhi . It was for the first time he was visiting Delhi,so like any general tourist he asked [in exact words] - "Bhai, Delhi mein dekhne layak kya hai.Matlab famous types."

And yours truly said - " Main hoon na" :)

Then a google was done and 50 odd things were displayed and then jotted down.All very swiftly.

When the list was handed ,I was impressed - Delhi has so much too offer. Wow !!

So,as a typical management student would do ,we did a detail R and D into the list and finally it was cut short to a more manageable 6 in all.

I had visited the rest five ,but the sixth one was "THE ONE".

This was the place that is / was a must see.

It's a brilliance of architecture;
the carving done will make you go " OMG";
It took five years + to make it and thousands of man hours went into the creation of this "jewel of Delhi";
It is designed in such a way that believe me one full day is required to explore the place;
From the musical fountains to the food courts , to the landscaping to the water bodies built all around the "Gaumukhs",the beautifully manicured lawns with the "wise words" written on them;
Statues of noted Indian figured and lotus shaped gardens;

This place is simply amazing.
And this is just the exterior.
When you enter the main building you'll be amazed by it.

Words can't describe it - You need to see it to believe it.

There is a separate shopping arena where you can get souvenirs,T's and mementos and loads of "puja" related articles.Needless to say a visit was paid to this :)

It's a place dedicated to Lord Swaminarayan.

However,what many people tend to miss is there is an another"white mandir" as its called nearby the main one. Six months of painstaking effort went in to build this one.It's beautifully white and has an amazing view overlooking the -games village.

btw- no cameras allowed . :(

So the next time you come to Delhi - do visit - Swaminarayan Akshardham.

Crazy world of "SN"

2010-04-15T11:00:00.000+05:30

Recently got a call from a leading business magazine to write up articles for MBA and the power of social networking (SN) linked with MBA's .

Then, an email from one of my good old friends who happens to be working for a major social networking web portal to write something for the portal.

The two situations , if linked well , have a common "pathway".

They want you to be heard. Agreed.
They also want you to use your skills..whatever they may be....Agreed....
and more over ......... enough....kuch bhi ......:P

Thoughts , views and likes are one and the same thing.
I am already doing this through my blog.

The concept of social networking....its a tricky word to say so......is not new.And most my learned readers are familiar with it.

And what makes me say that - My cousin's cute little son ( 8 years ) was pissed off with me .

Why ?

I called him up to wish him "happy wala birthday" rather than dropping into his facebook "wall".

I don't know if he knows what "SN" is all about but he certainly knows how to use the various applications on FB.

I still remember , in fact, I don't , when Payal introduced me to Hi5.Ages back.....rewind........

It was a great hit that time and everyone was a part of it. Including me.

It was such an addiction that my precious "one" life was actually going away after putting in so much hours of Hi5 work.

Now,I don't know about others but at least I don't even remember my user name and password for Hi5.

Forward.....

It's all gone.

Then came in orkut.....and what happened is history.
Now FB is the way. Till date.......

huh !!

I have seen my friends go on and on and on. Its the best use of viral marketing that one can think of. You meet old friends , whom you lost base with long back , you make new ones , if lucky ,you find "that" ones as well.....

And whats more when you have games like "Mafia wars" and "crazy taxi" there's lot more to want for.

Sending flowers , gifts , "tagging" people , changing status messages and letting everyone know that YOU EXIST . Rather you're a part of all this.

I get bored with things very easily. Things need to be changed / make changing , for me to stick on.

I don't know how much of these "SN" have affected me or my life....but certainly I have put in a lot more hours in these .

When me and Pooja were working on our foundation project , a small girl asked me- "Bhai...computer(laptop she was referring too) mein kya kya hota hai.isse aap "sab kuch" kar sakte ho kya.

And that's when I realised no matter which ever SN site you join you can't find this little friend . She needs in "my man hours" more than those SN out there.

Its good to be in touch with the latest around you . But at the same time its best to use your life to bring a smile to others.I know its easy to say and hard to do...but that's it.

I myself have found so many of my lost buddies that I thank "SN" like these . However, I don't know if at all , the cell phones , the cards , the letters would go away and everything would be online.

There is so much to do and time always keeps ticking. We choose what we feel like. Its an individual decision.

btw- need to update my status on all SN sites .New Blog Post posted after all......

uff.....some people I tell you...... :P

Youngistaan Ka WOW

2010-04-07T00:15:00.000+05:30

If you were the game master, what challenge would you like to throw to Ranbir?

Well,any game or a challenge is designed keeping in mind certains conditions :

the game master;
the contestant(Ranbir);
the product(Pepsi); and
a three tier link between the above three which makes a perfect formula for success

The challenge should be such that it :

grasps the audience attention
is interesting
relates well with the product / theme
stronger brand recall

Challenge

Beach Challenge.To spot twin - dolphins [ usually dolphins travel in groups.However there are certain who travel in pairs only.Spotting them is a tough thing to do ]

Ranbir would require to follow them ,both, which in turn guide and lead him too a hidden treasure of "Pepsi".

It's not easy.The dolphin's too like Pepsi and it would take certain skills - [ singing a song , playing with them, giving them a product similar to Pepsi [ a competitiors ,may be ] which the Dolphin refuse .

The entire theme of making up to the Dolphin in return of the hidden treasure would serve a strategic purpose.

People love dolphin's . They are simply cute. So is Ranbir.
The color of water and the entire theme matches with Pepsi's base color - Blue.
Blue also symbolizes: youth, spirituality, truth and peace. All these , which the generations of today "youngistaan" looks up to.
Presenting such a challenge is something which all can watch and the "word-of-mouth" in such things is great for a higher brand recall.

There are of course modifications possible.However if you imagine an entire picture of the challenge being performed by Ranbir , I am sure you will be left with a smile and a desire to grab a Pepsi right away.

FASTING

2010-04-06T17:12:00.007+05:30

Just came back from a lunch. An amazing one though.

And the occasion was ~ an Engagement party.

With two of the most beautiful people I know playing the hosts.

It's not even two days since I came to Delhi and I can hear wedding bells all around. Wow!! {Is February still on :)}

Well, it seems like a long time, may be year's back that I used to keep fasts on Sundays.

Why? I'll explain later.

Fasts on Sundays usually comprises of anything and everything that is "sweet". I know you are already salivating. Hold that thought.

You are not allowed to eat "ann" . So, believe me you can't be having sweets the day long. By the time it's night you already start hating anything and everything which is sweet. Even people: P

I couldn't take it anymore. One Sunday and I puked.Over it was. Forever.

In our Indian tradition people observe fast. Earlier it was the 'women' clad who skipped meals for anything and everything .Be it connected with their husbands , "would-be" husbands ,children,"would be" children or just about something which they thought was important .

Now, both males and females alike keep fasts. The concept of [Navgraha] and the related gamut of Indian gods are such that there are weeks when people go on fasting. This at times, may include no water no food.

Why FAST?

Well, there is an ancient Hindu story behind this. I'll tell the long story short. You fast or skip a meal when you really want to connect with god and do something which is not being done by many people. It means that you come in this world to do your karmas. This includes eating. Eating is considered to be a very pious deed. To feed someone or being fed by someone is very holy. After all, all that we work for is that [do waqt ki rotti]. And not having that means sacrificing yourself to God to make him hear you.

It's a strange world. Strange beliefs. Strange rituals.

Does FASTING helps?

Well if you're looking for a six-pack then there are better ways to achieve that.Jokes apart it all boils down to your [sharddha] / faith. If you really believe in yourself and your deeds, things would happen accordingly. Never play a win-win game with God.i.e. If I fast you give me "this". If I come and visit you "you get me that".

You can't hide away from God. So make sure you never do any "Shaartein" with God.

It can have dire consequences.I know this for sure.

Some thoughts....

I know what Arushi always used to say."Karan-it should come from within. I know about 'karva-chauth'.But you can't force me to keep one. If I feel that I should I will. That is love. That is faith. That is what "real fasting" is about".

No one should ever force you to fast. If you want to, make sure you know the "why" part. There is no harm in keeping the fast and praying to god to grant your wish. We are humans after all.

But as I always say - "mangne ka bhi tareeqa hota hai".

~happy fasting.......

Go GoA !

2010-03-15T21:56:00.005+05:30

Goa – This is it!
Some journeys are unplanned. This was one of them.
This blog post would help you feel confident about planning your travel to Goa next time when you’re in this colorful city.

Goa is India’s smallest state by area and the main language spoken here is Konkani (branch off from Marathi).We stayed @ Hotel Delmon, Panjim.And our neighbors included the likes of Wendell Rodricks to say.:)

Being part of the capital city we had the Panjim market close by, an array of good food restaurants [Sher-E-Punjab and Ritz Classic] where we dined in regularly. The food here is a delight for non-vegetarians and who better than a veggie like me would understand. The sea food is a must try for sure. Though, I had to do with mix veg and paneers and Gobi Manchurians. For the rates part, food is slightly on a higher side.So, be ready for it.

Goa is usually seen in two parts - North and South Goa. Each one takes a day depending upon your capacity to travel and spend time on the places.

• We started with North Goa tour first. Dolphin Cruise- Dolphin spotting was the first thing that we did. The boat ride was awesome and the dolphins cute as ever. We saw the most expensive Rs 80 crore property of a diamond merchant [ Millionaire's Palace ] where the shooting of Haseena Maan Jaayegi took place. Fort Aguada was the next in line [DCH remember]. Baga beach and “Queen of beaches” – Calungate were the evening outings. Still with more energy left with decided to take a night cruise – Goa’s famous Paradise cruise. Imagine an entire three deck ship lighted traveling on the beautiful sea by night. Need I say more!! Awe-struck!!

• Next day was the South Goa tour. Goa is known for churches and we picked up the two famous architectural wonders - Se Cathedral & St. Francis of Assisi. Bang opposite is the Museum of Christian Art for all those art lovers. Then we headed to my favorite place – Palolem Beach. This was the placed I ever wanted to visit as this was recommended to me by my dear friends – Ranbir and Shefali.And believe me the 70kms+ journey was worth it. It’s India’s only white sand beach and it’s simply beautiful .Free from the commercialization’s and clutter which you may find on other beaches this one is superb. And you have some great “cute-green color wearing: P” tourists from the world over. Sunset @ Palolem is a must see.

• Well,the third day was one hell of a bumpy ride to Bhagwan Mahaveer National Park,Collem . This place houses the famous Dudhsagar waterfalls which is one of the most spectacular natural phenomena in Goa.See it to believe it. Spice garden is a near by neighbor.

When you have nothing much to see and just want to relax with the sea by your side head to the Dona Paula Bay. In Goa ,shops close @ around 8. For shopping, cashews are a good buy. I would recommend the female counterparts to be accompanied by male’s if / when they travel / move outside. And yes!! Alcohol is cheaper than your sparkling mineral water

PS-Incase you need any help / view please feel free to drop in an email.There are many things which I haven't spilled out because somethings you need to explore yourself.Also,keep GOA clean. :) :)

Nailbiting......Finish

2010-03-07T21:55:00.004+05:30

It's been a while , now !!

And the journey is still on, to say so...

Well,was thinking to write this blog post since a long time !!

But ,gosh !! Busy , I was to the core :P...

Skipping meals , missing [ intentionally ] my workout regime , NO studies ,at all .

So , where the hell , am I being so busy !!

Rads would say - "Baba ,is always on his cell".

But,believe me this time around I have genuinely started talking less and less. [ Was a new year resolution :) ]

There is not much to do out here @ SIIB .As the final month before the stepping out is ON it seems to going in a pace of its own.Everyone is kind a relaxed,cheerful & in a "masti" mood to make the most of it.Since I had already spent February doing the "masti" things .....all I am doing is sleeping , eating [ though occasionally ] , chatting up , once a while reading on some stuff and movies.

Looking @ my fingernails which needed a cut , I was reminded of my good old school days when I used to do "nail-biting" .There are so many out there who still carry with this activity ,but ,I had left this long back. I don't know how it started and how I got involved in this but I know for sure that it took time to go.

And it required understanding which was not possible for me grasp at that tender age :)

So,Mom told me that it's a bad habit to do so. Dad told the nails become criss-crossed and looks bad.Cousin's told me -nothing happens bro. See mine :)

Then as I grew up I started hating it.So,one day,as at times I become rigid-IT WAS OVER.No more nail biting and it stays till date.Whenever I have long nails that need to be foreshorten I remember something which I MYSELF discovered sometime back.

I guess most of my readers are aware ,in case still not,I am an ardent fan and follower and learner of Indian Astrology.So,I keep reading stuff from all over whenever I am not in a mood to predict the future :)

One such story or ism says that each finger is a sign of a planet / represents a planet. From the nails the rays of that planet comes in our body.And that's how we get high / low in some areas or the others. Similar is the concept of "rings" / "stones" which people wear.

Example - The index finger typifies Guru / Jupiter. One wears a yellow sapphire / pukhraj for the same. So,in case you are a nail biter of the index finger , then you are decreasing the good rays of Jupiter in your body.

So,given this one should avoid doing such a thing. It's a complete no-no. But I have found people in my connect as well,who are not able to give this nun's habit up.They haven't tried or they are too not riled to give in.I guess,there are better things for the teeth to do and the hand to learn.

This is just an attempt to help them give a boost to sweep over with this custom.

btw-someone has just called me up saying that "they"have left it already !! Impressed

PS-well,it's been a tiring day today.Planning and re-working on hi-fi life issues . Pray that all goes well....

Chal Diye........bus chal diyeeee.................

2010-02-06T12:05:00.006+05:30

"Woh pehli baar jab hum mile;
haathon mein haath jab hum chale;
ho gaya yeh dil deewana;
hota hai pyaar kya isne jaana; "

It's a beautiful song. And this was playing on our very own BOSE surround stereo equipped 4x4 as we headed towards an unknown destination.

Busy,I was in the journey. Niki was almost nearing the ninth circle of sleep.Poor,Ranbir was trying his level best to make us reach safe.And my dear Rads - was thinking - wow ! It's so beautiful in India. [ These Indian gone US -people I tell you :P ]

A friend called in on my cell.It was close to 12:10 am.

"Hey Karan - what is your plan for the 9th February.Let's attend the wedding".

Everyone woke up.Systems started and it was all afresh.
That was only one half.

And all were after me.

Ranbir - " what the ***** . koi bhi phone karega raat ke barah baje".
Rads - " people's man . Let some people sleep."
Niki -"kya hua .All well na "

It's a proven scientific phenomena that when you are in deep sleep and suddenly the phone rings the heart beats faster ,pulse too and it takes a while before, to realise what exactly is going on.

A dangerous thing though.

And when you are all alone , with your gang and a road which has just your car's noise to echo you better be careful.

I hate to say but Indian roads are not that well to drive @ nights.

Unless,it's really urgent.

We were heading to Sarahan . A beautiful place in my favourite state - HP. Also, called the gateway to Kinnaur.

You have to see it to believe it.It's simply beautiful.

We reached around 5 in the morning.Everyone was shit tired.But ,the landscape was breath-taking.Nobody wanted to take a nap / tea / bath.Just sit and relax.

And Ms.Niki spoke very softly to all - "Guys ,if you wanna enjoy this please have a small power nap and some tea ,because it's decently chilly out here.

Also,we need to see the famous Bhimakali temple in the morning.

So,get going,will you ?
Yes ma'am. Roger that.

All of us went inside and slept like there is no sunrise ever going to happen.

But,Rads - bang on time - 7 cellphones alarmed at the same time.What more with the same wake-up tone. "Tere liye....."

After all the usual dramas everyone was up and well.

Had a small breakfast and headed towards the temple.

The temple is dedicated to goddess bhimakali. It's a beautiful temple with superb flowers all around.The temple is simply huge and built in a great architectural way.

See it to believe it.

Sarahan has small bird zoo as they call which is a small trek up the hill.Worth the pain. :)

Places like these are beautifully spread.

They have so called "tourist places"; "adventure places";"sight seeing places" ; and simply "awe inspiring places";

Choose your pic and make a move.

Planning is required only in terms of your stay.

HP is famous to have HPTDC hotels / resorts at the best of the places all over HP.

So,you can choose and prepare accordingly.
The stay was superb.

Jogging,trekking,tea and pakodas , local people and local shopping stuff . It was all so nice.

So,next time when you visit HP ,try shifting from the normal Shimla and Manali herd.

There is more to be explored and seen.........

btw-it seems everyone is either getting married or engaged. I have six wedding functions lined up for the next week.Now I know why they say - "February is the love month .So why not,tie the knot."

And add to this someone has his birthday also in February.What more ? ~ !

Wish you weren't so far away.....Long distance love....

2010-01-20T01:13:00.011+05:30

It happened long back !!

long long back !!

Infact,kaafi time ho gaya.

They say you never love , if you don't meet someone . face to face. talk.share.

But as always they say.

And I find it hard to believe whatever"they" say.

This post is unlike other posts . May be yes may be not.

A lot of my readers wanted my side of views on this issue.

And a lot means a lot.

Well,I believe if you don't experience it yourself you really don't have much of a say.

It's like someone keeps on calling you ,desperately,so much,that every time they call they hear the ring.But no one answers it. And after a while , no options they have, but to give up.
And if the same thing is done to "you" by someone else then only you realise how it feels.

So,I can have my say of views on this.:)

Long distance love - well...already has a "long" in it......is probably one of the most common complex phrases I have been hearing time and again.

The world has expanded.So,we have shrinked.
With a broadband we have got the world on our feet.
So much so,we don't even bother to move out , meet people , talk , share..

Just drop in an email / ping / "FB" like" status and it's done.
Its our way or rather new way of being in touch.

Remember these things were made so that one could always be with the other one.

But ,I guess it's worked the other way round.

People have stopped meeting.
They are so trapped inside these cubicles of fibres that they hardly can imagine a life without them.

An associate of mine married her childhood sweetheart.He moved to Seattle and she was stuck in poor old Delhi.Initially it was the "usual" missing you - phase for the guy.But gradually,they started sharing / talking only on pings / emails. Later,this also went by.Once in a blue moon an email used to pop in her inbox saying-"all is well". This was not done.Is this long distance love. Not really.

Someone told me - "Karan - the phone has its limitations". I have seen people ,never ever met each other, talked ,loved on phone and then broke away.All on phone.Is this long distance love.Not really.

I have a friend with whom I studied.We talked,a bit,back then . Now,when we are miles apart , this "online"thing is "the thing" for us. We talk,share,fight and it feels that we are so much together.Is this long distance love.Not really.

Long back on a journey to Kinnaur[HP] , I met a couple.They shared with me how they met and all.Very sweetly.For them ,at that time,there were no gtalks/Fb's etc. Yes ! Telephones were there.But they had different way to talking. "S&F-sense and feel" . Uncle would sense , somehow ,I really don't know how,that aunt would be thinking of him ,or waiting for him to call.And he did just that. And aunt ,for the cutest person she is ,would come to know sitting down in Bangalore that uncle was down with fever.Wow ! Is this long distance love.Not really.

I feel ,of course you should meet the person.Face-to-face.But then that would happen when time comes.Whatever ways you have ,options you use ,make sure you use them.Even if its a small birthday wish , a little hi , a text or if you have shared you number, may be a call on the weekend. That would do.

Remember all of us have a good part in us and a bad part too. We are all smart and all stupid at the same time.TRUST is the single most important thing in life.Try trusting people.It would be not very often that people break your trust.And if they do,learn that it wasn't your trust that failed , it was there wish that they got fulfilled.At the end you stay happy and they too , to some extent.

This is an issue which is too complex to describe.Everyone would have views and counters.All are respected.

PS-sometimes words really don't fill in.......

Congrats Mote...!!

2010-01-10T17:07:00.003+05:30

"upar wale ke khel nirale hain"....

Scene -1-

Date - 8th January,2010.
Time - 11:10 am

I was checking out a free sms website.
And, as true Indian's - anything for FREE....so macha do !!

So I started sending messages to all possible like minded people.

And one of them was my buddy ...a dear one - Harshit.

But the kanjoos ,that he still is :P , didn't replied !! same day !!

Scene-2-

Date - 9th January,2010.
Time-6:20 pm

"My trademark sms / text tone - "rapture dhol mix" played.

And the text said - quote - " Bhai...aaall izz welll.got engaged..."

As always,kept my calm and cool. Count 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,...........10...

Mota got engaged !! Didn't even informed me .
Oh crap !!

But then ,before taking any decisions wait for some time.

Scene-3-

Date-10th January,2010
Time-5:00 pm

Harshit called me up .
Bhai-"itna jaldi hua ki pata hi nahein chala.
January 1 reached Lucknow;
January 2 met her;
January 3 - got engaged.

Wow !! now that's a great kick-start for a new year -2010.

Congrats dude !! So,you're the official second one from the gang.

Abhishek had already made us proud .Long back :P

Deepak(fattuu),Nishi,Chandra(daddu),haanji bhaiya(chandan) ,bhuwan,bacha(rahul) and poor me !! All still left !! :( :(

Never mind !! Our time will come !! SOON!!

But,tab tak enjoy your time !

Felt kind of mixed - happy,excited,and nervous ( mota - marrying another BCA,MCA girl) baap re !!!

chalo..alll izzzz welll !!

Went down the memory lane - 2002-2006.
One of the best time of my life.
The best of pals I made and cherish till date.
The moments that we spend together.
Ramu's lassi and poori's..
Mehmaan's mehmaannawazi....
K'sons ice-creams....

it all came back !!

So much has passed by.Everyone has progressed on.Moved on.

Feels nice !! word's, at times just don't fill in :)

Congrats Motuu....

btw-don't forget the GYM.You need atleast some bytes of abs :P

WELCOME - 2010 -

2010-01-01T21:55:00.006+05:30

Happy New Year - 2010 - !!

CASE - 1 -

From 31st December to 1st January has anything changed ?

Well,

-the day

-the time-

-the moment

well that changes everyday !!

OK.

-the year !!

ohh ! Now that changes once every year . But yeah it too changes.

But still we find this change more in totality to notice and celebrate.

This means its significant;its "wanted";

A dear friend had his birthday on 31st December . So,its two good ones to cheer for.

I never felt this for my birthday or for that matter anyone else's also.

They too come after a long one year . But we think its OK.

But, this 31st December makes us feel...baap re...it took one full year to make it to this :) :)

CASE - 2-

Since the last 24 hours I have received best wishes from all possible mediums , in all possible ways and from all different people - expected and unexpected.

But I have noticed one thing across all.

We always wish in " May" this happens , "may" you get this , "may" you achieve this.........and likes.

This is so because nothing is fixed.

Life changes every now and then.

Jo aaj tumhara hai woh kal kisi aur ka ho jayega. :)

life moves on.......clock ticks and ticks.......

We grow and grow and move on.

We wish whatever good has gone by stays and whatever bad was done gets left in the year gone by.

"WISH" :)

Happens.

CASE -3-

A friend had her status message as "start afresh" .Now that's a nice thought.

Vibrant indeed.

Start afresh. Now the word "afresh" holds the key.

It could be -

go back and revert

change yourself and move on

leave people and start with new ones

give one chance more and then start again

or just start your day with a hot water bath and feel fresh :)

Too many to say to little to follow.

We ( not me included) make many new year resolutions.

Now I seriously don't get what are these all about. Haven't really made myself any and can't think of making some,anytime soon.

A friend decided to quit smoking from yesterday - 12:00 am onwards.

By the time we went for lunch he had already puffed 6 and till time - 9 and counting....

huh !! such is life dearies :)

In short....

anyways,as always,2009 was filled with surprises. Good and bad.

Learnt a lot , shared a bit , I guess and thinking that only the good ones are carried along.

So,bad luck to the poor ones . They couldn't make it.

btw - must watch - 3idiots .

Great Indian Weddings

2009-12-04T15:03:00.006+05:30

Congrats ! Mubarak ~and the likes.....

must be feeling real good - Right Ranbir ?!!

"It's that feeling you can't describe"-said Ranbir

Mixed emotions,funny anxieties....and god knows what all !

So,when Ranbir told me -"bhai ! Its ON. "I already knew it was going to happen.Not because I am invited from both the groom and bride's side.....so it wasn't THAT a surprise.

But.....OK.Great !! So my dear buddy is "horse climbing" -( if that's a word)

Feels good.

Families,friends,parties,week long celebrations and a whole lot a gala activities.

Wow !!

Just two performers and a world around them.

Such are the well put-"Great Indian Weddings".

I still recall Ranbir's big brother's wedding.If I can say,it's on my top 5 picks of the best wedding functions attended by me so far.So,why it features out in the Top 5.

--The who's who of the Delhi Power circle were invited.

--The most dashing of my favourite hotels were booked.

--My favourite designer and my big sis designed the weeding trousseau.

--Each and every guest (barring the special ones ;) )were given a special wedding pack/gifts (concept thought by yours truly)

--the gamut of food was simply irresistible

--the best band in Delhi

--and yes a heavy layer of security

I mean....you name it and it was all present.

A week long activity......

Ring ceremony

Mehandi

Sangeet

Pre Marriage Nutty party

The Grand Shaadi

Reception

Cocktail dinner - hosted by close friends

Huh !!

I can't even remember if I came home that week..

Ranbir and I had a series of attires in the cars.

So change and we are IN. :) [management from that time only ]

Wow !!feels great !

Don't really know if such lavish spending is a good going but certainly everything is for just one special thing- TO MAKE THAT DAY / MOMENT UNFORGETTABLE.FOR EACH AND EVERYONE PRESENT.

Does all this ensure a good going marriage ?

hehe - Can't really say or comment on that.

Nothing is forever. but then nothing is nothing.

You don't stop breathing because someday you'll have to go.

You don't stop meeting / making friends just because you lost someone close.

You don't stop travelling just because of one bad journey experience.

so,enjoy every moment even if it has nothing to do with you.I still recall on one of my memorable visits to Nabha Palace,Mussoorie.A family was there to celebrate their little daughter's birthday.And I was "maha upset" with something.

But the way the little girl invited us to her party made me forget anything and everything bad ever happened to me.Such is the power when you give a smile to someone else.

And if they give you a smile back then Bingo !! you're still"living" .

A life everyone wishes to....

wisely said - to keep your marriage brimming,with love in the wedding cup,whenever you're wrong,admit it;whenever you're right,shut up ;)

PS - Well....nice one !!!

16 November 2009

2009-11-26T10:32:00.009+05:30

Some folks related this to - 16 December -starring Milind & Dipannita ;)

They say - "Success isn't a result of spontaneous combustion.You must set yourself on FIRE".

Good things happen to good people who too have good people by their side.

Just to sprinkle , good time ,good luck ,good blessings & yes ! good love also do the final refining.

Something similar happened on 16 November,2009.

My third semester exams started from this date . That's just a part worth :)

A lot more happened .

In words of my peers ,as they said -

Karan -

-->your MBA is OVER / has come to an end

-->you can / could possibly be engaged now....even marry

-->why even study for the exams . Damn. You don't need to .

-->so all sincere people making it to the top,

-->you deserved it all,

-->RELAX.HAVE FUN.

-->Enjoy whatever time you have in the B-school to the full......

Views and opinions matter. Only good ones :) ;)

So,why all this "gyaan" on one single day. For it's not my BIG DAY or even a D / B 'day.

Just because I got placed ;)

Well,that's not JUST .

Its a dream come true.

Its divine.

Its just.......

"Doubt is a pain too lonely to know that faith is his twin brother."

One of the toughest selection processes I ever undertook , spent one full day ,including giving an end term paper and then preparing for an another one on the 17th . huh !!

It was all so very Happening.

and best part was not at a place I knew but at a place which I adore for a number of reasons ;)

You really never know when time takes you places .

It was all falling into place.The day,the process,the works.MAGIC all over.All around.

Calls,texts,emails,hugs and xxxx all came poring in .From all around.

Believe me it was the BEST DAY of the year and one which goes into my top list.

And it wouldn't be fair on my part not to say this to ALL you special people-

People,

To all the teachers / profs / mentors who taught me everything in most amazing ways,

To all those who studied with me @ MSM,SBSCET,SIIB,

to all those who worked with me at PMP,IOCL,Genpact,

to all those who helped me @ MNYL,

for all the love,the blessings ,the good wishes,

for all those whom I met / will meet in this journey of life,

for those who are no longer with me but still in my heart,

for the memories that I carry -the good ones and the bad ones ;)

from the bottom of my heart

A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL YOU OUT THERE.

Best Wishes ,

Karan

Remember --We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated--

Night before Diwali :)

2009-10-16T22:42:00.004+05:30

Date - 16th October , 2009
Venue - someplace , Pune
Activity - Sipping my favourite cappuccino coffee

Tomorrow is Diwali .
Childhood memories take me back to days when it was "THE" festival for me.
I recall how it pumped into me tremendous energy flows , excitement -the entire festive joy would come into me.

The crackers ,the sweets,people coming to wish . This festival has immense positivity attached to itself.

We used to have a week long vacation , or may be more ,at good old school days. And then as they say back home , in Delhi - "Diwali jaate hi....sardi aa jate hai"......and Winter happens to be my favourite season.

It was just so amazing.DIVINE.

As time flew by, the spirit became matured - kind a refined . Crackers went down, so did the sweets .It became a "usual" meeting & wishing festival.

They say -
Time heals you up.
Time makes you think again.
Time makes everything up at one time and down at another.

During my engineering college days , Diwali was perhaps the only occasion of having a "decent" buffer of offs to go home.More than Diwali it was the joy of coming back to Delhi and to my family.Diwali was just another reason.

That's how time changes.

Now in my final year of post graduation -Diwali-still holds a special place but I fail to classify it as what ... :)

Over lunch ,today,we were discussing who all had gone to their homes today,who all are leaving tomorrow and who all are not going.

Yes . Sounds strange.

But yes there are people who stay back . And its not new in PG courses rather it was usual in my undergrads days as well.

It's not that given an option one wouldn't go back home.Spend time with family,meet people,have home cooked food,chat up with old pals ,go shopping and the likes........

BUT, it's just that priorities change.So no matter what festival it is we prioritise.That's why we are called as "grown ups" in this mature society where we live.

A friend from far of Pune,said to me -"Its been like close to 4 years since I last went home".

baap re !! Not really.
It's not that he didn't want to , but, somethings you just can't put in words.

Twist -

Was watching Wake up Sid of late and realised one fact -

They say girls marry and go of. Never to come back.

But have you ever thought about boys. ?

In my case I remember, I left home in 2002.

My engineering, work life , MBA actually took me away from home.
I feel the same now also.
I go to home but I know its not permanent.
I have to come back .
Someplace,somewhere.....

Wish I could just spend some more time at home.... :(

Had a talk with a friend of mine in Canada. We met @ our MBA prep. school.
He so wanted to come back.But.................

Well that's life.

I can go on and on.....and as Rags always say - "baby-come out .It's morning".

Wish all my readers (past,present & future) a happy and a safe Diwali.

Remember its not the bonds that bond us.................it's the ties that tie us .

STARS - the shining ones

2009-09-14T21:01:00.008+05:30

I guess, on behalf of all , aaj Kal classes mein after a point , kuch khaas mann nahein lag raha....
No points for guessing kyun ...

So , randomly , I start scribbling images , pictures ...aiven hii....TP in my notebooks which otherwise are meant for a more noble cause.

In the class today , I started drawing "stars" . All sorts of. Various styles ....etc.

And then , I went down the memory lane.

My good old school days at MSM . As student , little ones ,when we were , the teachers used to give us these"stars".

I still recall those bright red stars which I often,used to get in my school copies and at times test papers : )

IT FELT SO SO GOOD.

And the association still continues. That time I never thought as to why not give a sun or a moon or some thing else.

Pata nahein. May be stars are always special.

We have the Indian film industry stars whom we love to the core.

And we have "our stars" . The stars of the destiny . Which we follow . Which we consult.

One of my dear friends came visiting me in Delhi "swine flu" trip.

He wanted to ask something relating to the STARS. All of you must be knowing, but those who still don't know - I love astrology . That's it. No deep thinking.

So,we sat ,made some charts and all with some stars here and there and I tried my best to help him out..

Its so good....how we relate things. Something which was so cute and innocent in school now has matured. But often in this fast moving life we forget such memories.

Then randomly they come and leave a smile on the face. Its feels nice.

After all its just these "yaadein" which stays with us. Baaki toh sab chala jata hai........

btw- got an IMC submission to be done tomorrow ....Lets GO....

Once an Ajnabee....NO MORE an Ajnabee

2009-09-06T00:25:00.005+05:30

On my recent visit to Delhi .... thanks to the swine flu ......I myself got treated for the same :(

I met a complete stranger.

Now,for me she was. For her I wasn't.

Girls - they shop together,they talk and talk and share almost everything.

I met Rupali , after decades . And yet she was the same . NO CHANGE. :)

We talked , I hardly did , laughed like "pagal" and then ,from nowhere she said - Lets meet up - Ankita.

OK. Where did this came from ?

My expressions changed. Was wondering if I could file a case against Costa Coffee for making her drink everything but coffee. What happened to her.

And guess what . Before I could even get my act together ,she had called up Ankita and icing on the doughnut - she actually came.

I was in fix. Honestly. Blushing I was. And feeling - "Let her go and then you see what I'll do".

But that's in future. Need to handle the past.

On the look , she looked professional. By the dress code , by the way she introduced herself and she asked for my introduction ,it seemed I was in for a job interview with a HR - MKTG. manager.

I was impressed. But,that's about it. So it was over.

Last week she came to Pune.Amidst all the swine flu scare. Brave she is. Another value point.

She called me up and my usual reply was ....You know....:)

But,she never gave me that time. She just asked for my class schedule and gave ME a time to catch with her .

Gosh ! This girl is fast.

We met .And honestly, I felt happy. Why ? Pata nahein :/

They say you randomly meet people. Some choose to meet you and others you choose. And not always strangers become friends.

I could have refused , I could have not shared my number with her.

She could have just erased me from her memory. She could have not called me up.

But,all this is so much thinking.

Some people you are destined to meet. When you come in this world everyone is a stranger.Its with time you know who is who .

It was a good meeting. We are in touch . I sincerely hope we do .

So,the rock bottom is ,as someone "more gyaani" than me said -

""It's great when stangers become friends,

But even sadder when those friends become strangers,

We became friends and didn't even realize it,

I trusted you and you trusted me,

Now were like stangers to each other,

But no matter what you'll always be my friend,

Even if im not yoursIt's great when strangers become friends,

But even sadder when those friends become strangers""

btw-watch that movie - एक अजनबी

And the baby DIED.

2009-08-12T16:07:00.012+05:30

OK.
It hurts.

This is a story....or if I can say,an experience of one of my dearest friends-Naina.Part of the "next-gen" or the "youngistaan" of today as we call it.

We both went to the same preparatory school,lived in the same locality for a couple of years,shared some amazing moments together,played,laughed,cried .And became the best of pals .

When I joined Symbiosis last year-2008,she completed her Masters and came back from the US.

She was in love. That's what she said to me.They were together for almost 2 years.They were getting engaged.

I was so so happy for her. Lucky "he".

Before leaving for Pune,we met.
And that meeting ,I can never forget.

She cried and cried and cried. And unstoppable she was. I had no clues what to do ,what to say so that I could bring her smile back.

They broke up.

And she said-"the baby died".

I was clueless . Nothing seems to be going straight for me.

She explained with the tears still falling.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"-I don't know what happened Karan. We started talking like complete strangers . I wasn't feeling comfortable and neither was he.I tried my level best to talk/share to him his worries/concern,but he was just not interested.It was so good sometime back and yet time changed everything.

He didn't communicated what he wanted.Neither he said what happened. He just walked off.

Leaving me shattered . My dreams ,my world & my life was dead .

It felt as if I would die the very moment.

He just went.Never to come back.I tried calling him / mailing him,but little did I knew that not only I was out of his life but also out of his mobile/fb/email's etc.

I tried so hard that he communicated with me what had happened. But.....

After some time ,I lost . Relationships are so so fragile.Just like new born babies. They need to be nurtured,pampered and loved.

He killed my baby. And that too - " tadpa tadpa ke" .
My baby died in front of me and I could do nothing.
(I can never forget these lines.I cried that day.And I cry everytime I think about this)

I will never forgive him for this.

I am still recovering. Because I know there are many people who love me,care for me and need me. And with that one person going from my life ,my life should not come at a halt."

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

These are her words. I know how she came up from this. She almost died.

I consider myself to be very patient.But ,if you meet Naina you'll know what patience is all about.

It took almost one year for her to come up from this.Not many people knew what had happened.She lost the real Naina-her smile,her bindaas nature.Everything.

But,she handled it very well. She went back to the US.Took up a great job and is doing real well.

We met yesterday -11th August,2009. Though ,I was still recovering from my illness,I didn' t wanted to let her go.

She has become the old Naina. And I am so happy for her.

Not everyone can do what she did. I have no words . All I believe now,more,is,

-"jo hua acha hua"-

By the way - She wanted me to share this with all my readers . So,here I am writing this .

.Just for you . -Palak :)

Yes,the smile returned back to its original place.

Naina-You know nothing is for free .So,make sure you wear your smile .24*7*365.Else I'll come to know.Sitting "saat samunder paar"also. And yes,the souffle still tastes that great !!

By the way - I was feeling so powerless.With 104 c ,fever,I thought if I touch anything it would burn.

After I finished writing this I was normal. Recovering process picks up some speed. :)

Groupism - How Roma said it...............

2009-07-14T20:51:00.008+05:30

Well....this one is by - POPULAR DEMAND
So,I had to post it.
It's already 1 year down at my life @ B-school.
And now,I am learning to understand what my dear friend Roma - told me long back.

I'll tell you a short story - ......

They say memories come and stay. Lessons learnt never fade away.
People come and go. Some stay and others make way.....

Roma told me- the worst thing in a B-school or for that matter in any place where "more than just YOU" are involved is - Groupism thats how its said in the local lingo.....

What is it ? How is it that good / bad ? Is it harmful ? Is it you should be a part of ?

When I joined my engineering college , I wasn't sure if I would be in a group . But things happened and I was a part of the so called "Delhi Gang" or group to be more formal.
It became one of the most coveted group.People wanted to be a part of it.They wanted to know us.It suddenly seemed that "we were THE PEOPLE".

We moved in the group ,played,studied,fought for the group and above all it seemed as if "WE WERE THE ONLY ONES".

I still recall one girl who was from a small rural place in Punjab.She talked to us off and on and I could see the "desire" if I can say,to be a part of the group.

But , when you disconnect yourself from the rest of the world / people, you hardly even look if anyone is around.If anyone wants to be with you.Anyone likes being with you.

The group was so secure and we were so dependent that if anyone wasn't around we felt insecure.We thought as if this is it.We'll stay together always.

"The girl" never became a part of the group.And it's today when "'WE" look back we feel what we had left.

We should have been open.We should have talked to everyone.We should have been for everyone.We should have BEEN- JUST US.

Time wont come back. So would the people.Its no use crying after something has gone wrong.

Roma is a big gyaani...:-)

Now I understand what she meant.

NOTHING IS FOREVER.REMEMBER.

Being a part of "the group",thinking that "all for one and one for all" will stay, imagining that this would stay the way it is , disrespecting other's , not giving them a chance to know you ..........is something which you would realise sooner than later.......Words can't fill in.

When your heart hurts because you hurt a lot many people then the pain would be unbearable. Then you would realise what wrong you did.

Its not bad to be in any group. But remember at the end of the day you're an individual.You are "YOU".

Life goes on....people also....

Learn to be a giver.Move out of your comfort zone.Talk to everyone.Respect every individual.After all life is all about mixing.

"agar duniya mein aakar bhi khushi na baante toh kya kiya "

A - 406

2009-06-29T05:39:00.004+05:30

In Pune.
Gradual shift ...promoted or elevated
Not only in terms of hostel but also in floors..
New "senior gents"hostel -4th floor , A -406 ,SIC .

Well,mom and dad were here .
And NO.
Not to help me with the shifting part,which they in any case did, but also for a visit to some nearby places.

And so,was she. Before leaving to "pardes" she wanted to see Pune , have fun ,eat the famous chocolate brownie at "Talk About" and just relax.

And usual I was "maha udaas" . Even more this time as she was going for one year abroad .

Why do people go ? Why do we travel ? Why is it that we need to say "bye" ?

In my case,I certainly HATE saying words like "bye" , "see you" and the likes.

Sach much , bola nahein jata .

I guess life takes you to places where you actually never think of going. They exists , somewhere but your"travel radar" does not catches them too often.

And then one fine day , vola ! You 're here. Welcome.

I never thought of coming to Pune when I was growing up . But here I am. As I look outside my room window to a picturesque view of the hills it feels ........divine.

The world is so beautiful .

As Robert Frost once said - "And miles to go before I sleep.........

the journey moves on.... at somewhere in someplace at sometime with someone.

The Creative Ones - Seriously -

2009-06-21T15:14:00.006+05:30

Hmm....
I have to bring this out.
These people ....sorry professionals are amazing.
I have by God's grace a bunch of people who are -

-Interior Designers
-Architects
-Fashion Designers

And believe me -they are too good.

We all are creative,to an extent and we all are imaginative to a limit - ( don't ask me the difference between the two:p )

Everyone loves to design their houses , matching thier clothes and all that...

Some have a natural flair and some are inherent born "genius".

But these guys,I tell you are an amazing lot.

Pink matched well with a black or lighter shades of white can create peace .
Long mirrors add dimensions to your home ...
And Roma,actually says -"Karan - White looks great on you,but,Black is what you should wear".
Coffee tables can actually carry 100+ CD's and DVD's and other goodies....

Gosh !!

A creative one.May be not.

A slight twist is also in the making-

When someone asks :

"What does your son / daughter do ?
Parents introduce ,at times , their childrens, saying - " Darji ki padhaai kar rahe/a hai " .

Sorry folks - I doubt if a darji knows what a NIFT or SPA is.

These are very special people who end in making not only an individual but the entire surrounding of them special and creative with a "magic touch ".

The way they work,the effort they put in is far beyond a thanks .

I ,for sure,could just do one thing - Eyes and Mouth -wide open - saying "WOW".

Next time you come across any of them make sure you know what they actually do and how dull a life can become if they are not around.

Great Work !!

btw - Hina and Sonali - who's doing my lounge .
Needless to say "please FREE mein" --> Unlimited Hugs - pakka :-)

Delhi 6 - CC

2009-06-12T14:13:00.005+05:30

Time : 11:30 am
Place - my bed :-)

"Waiting for tonight" - my cell ringtone ....trrinnggss.....
A female voice - " Coming in 5 minutes. get ready"
My voice - " hmmmm....huh....jaana hai kya ? "

and call is over long back.

Huh !!
She is in India . A cousin of her.....ooppsss sorry ! Her favourite cousin is getting married.
So,what am I suppose to do other than wishing them , BHANGRA ?

NO.Shopping ..

Oh...pleaseeeee....

Just over with my summer internship.....let me sleep for sometime.....and who the hell in this world would go to CC - Chandani Chowk - at 44 c in this Delhi heat and that too shopping.

Well,I am wrong. Over 1000+ people are in CC.

Huh!!

btw- if you're still wondering -I am in CC.
Only she can take me out of my comfort zone...
Girls ,I tell you...are GIRLS.

So,where do we start ?

Everything in CC is famous . or 100 years old , more , 200 years old.

Small streets , cramped passages ,people all over and then the local mode of movement - "rickshaws".... you'll get lost. But I actually was enjoying .

It was fun . How ?

I wasn't carring my handkerchief ...and sweating I was.....tapp tapp tapp....

So she bought me a nice "rumaal".

Then we went to the famous "Giani's" -had sweet lassi.....and half-talli I was...

But its just started.....moving from here to there.....we at last reached THE SHOP.

She had already dropped in this place before.So everyone knew her. She was on to her work. And I was - Delhi girls with them , mom-in-laws-in making -checking out - Lehanga's ,sarees and what not !!

I was of the opinion that she was buying all this for herself. But NO.

She was on behalf of the bride getting the things checked .She was the official designer of the bride's clothes.

wow !! and what am I doing - " dosti" .... right right right

Almost 2 hours of seeing how a "bride's shopping is done - I was IMPRESSED .She's damn good.

Well,shopping got over - next was Khan market.A place which needs no "gyaan"from me.
I could see that I had no option of doing social service . Because my car's back seat was overflowing. I couldn't believe . She shopped so much....oh.....

And when did this all happen.....

"Ladki Kyon Na Jaane Kyon Ladko Si Nahin Hoti " - Saif bhai.....

It was a nice experience . And I got loads of goodies from her.

So,when in Delhi , do take time out to check out the "jaan of Delhi / India " - CC

.....

01632-FZR

2009-05-03T19:14:00.005+05:30

Destiny takes you to destiny.
It's not always what YOU decide/think happens.
Infact,indeed it never happens.

Everything has been planned.Natasha would re-bash me for saying this ,but babes THIS IS TRUE.

I am doing my summer internship in Gurgaon.
And guess what I have to tour to Punjab.
And the place to start is FERZOPUR.

Why ? After 2006,all done with my engg. I really HONESTLY never imagined that I would be going back to FZR.

But,its not always what we want to happen.

The journey ,the same old blue Punjab Mail ,the NDLS and the it says......everything is the same..

And I was almost in joyful tears on this home-coming.
Same place,same people ,same old normal life,.....kuch badla kya ?

Shayad ? Time ? May be....after all time toh badlega hi....

It's a mixed feeling ...being back....and STAYING at a place with people who are more than parents to me....Its really worth it.

I really don't know what to say,what to write,....its something which I can only feel......

FZR-01632 will always be in my heart...

on a lighter note-

journey continues...........

VOTE FOR INDIA

2009-04-20T20:27:00.003+05:30

I recetly met my buaji who was busy with the elections.However,she managed to say to me "Baba,do vote".
and will I ?
Yes.
There ought to be no reasons for saying NO-I can't / I won't.

If the PM can vote and
so can AdvaniJi ,
if SRK can come all the way from CapeTown to vote and
if the physically dispaired Param Vir Chakra Medal awardee Arjun Bisht can also vote without miss,
If the girl from my school days can vote,and
above all If India can vote

WHY CAN'T YOU?
It's your country , your right so you should actually find reasons that make your "no" into "yes" .
We give "n" reasons which I just can't type......for not going to vote . But,deep down inside ,as said by a great political thinker that "you're a true citizen a true Indian only if you vote.Because that's the way in which you show your care for your country and your right of choosing your government.

So please go and VOTE.
India Votes
Karan Votes
Jai Hind
.......

call back !! plz

2009-04-20T20:25:00.002+05:30

I recently met someone. :)
After 3 years I flew Jet Airways.And ,guess what , I came back home after 6 months.

Nikita always says - " Karan,sometimes I feel like kicking your #$%@ for you not reverting to my calls".

Sorry ,Niks. Kya karoon.....I also don't know why I do this. :(

btw-I have changed now. I have now 2 cellphones and believe me if I am not sleeping I am on the phone.
But,this wasn't like this . I hated to talk on the phone.Mind you,I talk very well but I talk crisp.So long talks , I can't do.

Another dear friend Radhika,said I'll buy you an international sim card,make sure it's never out of balance but "WILL YOU CALL" ?

I will.Make sure you give me HTC TOUCH DIAMOND 2 as well. Looks better then :-)

Well,it all depends on the person whom you're talking,his/her mood ,the time of the day and above all you and his/her linkage.

If it's all well then you both can carry on till the wee hours else it's within Kimi's pitstop timings.

I have noted some people have such a bad habit of not repling to your calls / text . These people should be bashed up. Someone is already ready to do so :-)

But,yes atleast reply to such calls / texts . It shows nothing but your concern.And that is what is needed.So,the next time make sure the missed becomes attended.

someone must be thinking .....

hmmmmm
.....hahahaah

PS-btw - things have changed now ~

Wassup ? Long time ? No C !!

2009-04-20T20:21:00.004+05:30

No.
I haven't been dying to write this.
But yes I was kind a missing writing :-(

Why ?

Nothing much!!
EXAMS.Aur kya ?

Always its the same story.No matter how much preparation you do , how much doses of self-confidence you impose,how much effort you put in - at the end it's the last minute studies that count.

In my case its carrying my notes and stuff write in the examination hall upto my seat.huh ! Loads of "dum" required.Not really.

Believe me - MBA is tough !!
Now leaders from different school of thoughts would have different views.

This and that and all that.Crap.

I find it tough.Why ?
When you have back to back subjects with the likes of FM ,COSTING,B2B....(sorry emerging stuff something I still don't know what its all about though I managed to get a perfect A+) ....everyday......MBA is not that bad.

Gosh ! I am so unpredicatable....

Then,is MBA all about how much you study ? May be yes may be not.

MBA is more of teamwork.Or groups. as we say.
It's utter idiotic to study everything from everywhere . That's not management.

I had realised this since my Engg. days.And it continues.
I must say that it's been a journey worth taking.

Each moment in life is worth living for. Only if you have the will.

It's been one year down and sitting at my home after a hectic summer day with Max India(my summers has already begun--gosh !These MBA people are so busy....huh)I can see one more year coming up.

In Delhi,people or rather close family friends often ask me - "We too want our son/daughter to do a MBA".

I smile and say -"Sure".Need any help - Main hoon na.

But,deep inside I always feel WHY ? What is it that MBA's do and you can't do ?What makes people's eyes go up with a twirl when they hear you are a MBA ?

I am still trying to figure this out.

I have learnt decent amount of stuff in my journey so far.Something which I can't put in words.I have critisied myself for choosing MBA over MS ,I have applauded myself for getting into Symbi.,I have thanked my stars for giving me another chance to study post engg.And what not.

At the end ,you should be happy doing what you really wanna do.That's called wisdom.Which we -MBA's have in abundance.

In Delhi , doing my summers in this heat makes me realise what a sea change it is from doing an engg. summers project and doing your MBA summers internship.It's different.

It's for time to decide if all this actually takes me forward in life and makes me a better stable human manager.

By the way - if you can decode and crush and get something worthwhile from all this please feel free to drop in a comment.

And and -please go and vote . It's just a button to press . After all :-) Where the heck did this came from ? MBA's , I tell you ...kuch bhi likhte hain ....

"Mazboot neta , nirnayak sarkaar"
~Karan

SIIB GD - PI - an experience

2009-02-07T11:50:00.007+05:30

It's an experience which is hard to describe.
It has to be felt.

This time around last year , my birthday - Feb 1 ,I was travelling to Pune for my SIIB GD/PI,which was on the 3 Feb.

It was a great experience. The word 'great" figures out only because I made to SIIB . Had it been the other way..............WHY ? Be positive ;-) OK .

So,it was a good time . GD,PI,GT AND Essay . Loads of scope to mess up and also loads to be selected from.

Our seniors left no stones unturned to make sure everyone was at ease .

Now its 2009.

Its our time. We are the ones who have changed sides. We are a part of the process . It feels really happy,,a bit nostalgic and also an air of confidence.

When you see anxious parents ,nervous students wearing name tag minus there names hovering around and with an occasional twinkle in th eyes you feel a sense of achievement .

Yesterday a person asked " Sir I am feeling sh** nervous . With two interviews I think my heart is gonna sink . " All I said was relax- Inhale and exhale.

FROM THE NOSTRILS ONLY . ;-p

And you'll feel dizzy .

No. What can I say . These things happen. How much you motivate or give in those pump-ins they stay . But, anyways I did my job. And offered water.The best things to have at this moment.

Today another student asked- " Karan - May I know from where are you and how is the college".

Chill friend - The last thing on your mind would be Karan .

Concentrate on the current recession,Raju's mess , or may be Sania's new comeback .

But,you just can't help it. Had to answer .

It's a nice way to see and learn things. All these are a way to become good managers . This is what people say .... :-)

Well,have my final process tomorrow-8/2/2009 and then its OVER. Is it ?

All the best dear candidates . Hope to see YOU at SIIB.

btw - where is my attendance sheet ? Got to find it . 1 absentee.....

PS - Anyone of you planning to take SNAP / join SIIB and have any queries in mind do let me know. Will be more than happy to be of help !!

A zephyr of wind serener than sea.....

2009-01-08T13:56:00.005+05:30

I met her at one of her parties....

And guess what I was invited without she even knowing me.

This is how you meet people when HE wants you to.

She was this classy girl, no messes,no air,but still a command which she carried always.

A typical Army girl with a Delhi background .

So,a deadly combination. And guess what,she was a cancerian.

And I don't have very fond memories of Aquarians-Cancerians budding friendships.

hahahaha

But opinions are meant to be changed. Chalta hai...One should not be rigid. Look who's saying.

And story goes on. Spent time with her off and on. Busy I am as always.

She went abroad for her MS. And never completed it.

WHY ? In this world only 4 people know about this.I don't intend to share this.Sorry.

So what's the bottomline - She's no more in this world. And I seriously sometime fail to believe this.

She said always -

Life comes in packets. You have to cut it . If you cut it the right way you'll get "that" desired gift.

If you don't then it'll be torn.

What she meant was YOU HAVE TO CUT IT . You have to bleed ....you have to suffer....because then only you'll realise the value of achieving something.

We live in a strange world . Strange people, strange rules, procedures and even stranger LIFE.

Huh !!

Never to cry because excess of salt is bad for health.she said always

Will not miss you but will hate you for going so early.

btw-she had sent my birthday card way in advance.Thanks.

Year - 2008 -

2009-01-08T13:28:00.003+05:30

Long time again !!

Or rather a year has passed on.....or we have moved ahead !!

Perceptions and more of them....I still don't know what all does this term contains.

On January 1 I got a record number of messages and decent number of calls.

And one question which was prominent was- SO HOWZ THE YEAR GONE ?

Well I always fail to answer such tough single line questions....:-(

Because the answers are more than one line :-)

Well,to start with 2007 was not a very GOOD year to say so.

A friend went into a different stage...

Had to sit for the so called B-SCHOOL exams......

Had to join career launcher to launch my career.......

Moreover,had to bid adieu to one of my karate trainers......

......................it goes on...

I had a certain number of expectations from 2008.

First was " a decent b-school" . Infact,this was the only one.:-)

And guess what I got it -

We all I can say and think that a lot can happen when our aims,ambitions fly...high...

You cannot get everything but still you get something really good.

I got through SIIB . I don't know if it was destined ,but I here I am.And I like it.:-)

When I clicked on the result link,typed my snap id and "enter" ..................

MBA-IB SELECTED

IT WAS DIVINE. IT WAS A FEELING OUT OF THIS WORLD. HAPPY MOMENT . KUCH MEETHA HO JAYE :-)

Things change very fast.Since I am a keen follower of astrology I believe "when a time has to come,it will come."

We always think its late or "kaash" jaldi aa jata.

But,dreams are meant to be DREAMS. :-0

This is was a good moment.

A bad one was also there. After all,two wrongs never make one right.

And one plus one minus take you back to basics :-)

I wish everyone shall have a satisfying new year -2009.

Expect nothing.Pray for everything. Humans after all :-)

Happy New Year -God Bless.

btw-watched Rabb ne bana di jodi....Nice one......

Panchgani

2008-11-21T13:23:00.008+05:30

Huh!!

My second visit outside the SIC CAMPUS – first being the outbound session at Sinhagad.

So, where was this second visit- PANCHGANI.

It’s called as Moral Re-armament Camp (MRA)

So, what does it mean….that I am still figuring it out!!

First things first.

After putting in a lot of hard work (besides me, myself and friends, number of other factors also go into the exam preparation) SIIB allows us to rejuvenate ourselves after a stressing tenure of exams.

REFRESH!!

Hill station, with loads of trees,pure air,matchless ambience and no tensions….makes everyone happy ….so was I.

Panchgani is a beautiful place. I don’t know if it’s valid for the entire region or for the place where we went – ASIA PLATEAU.

But, it’s so divine.

From Pune it takes a close 3 hours depending upon certain factors to reach Asia Plateau.

The journey is smooth and when friends are around time flies.

The day we reached we were welcomed…..let me guess, not welcomed but rather given a series of sessions which we were REQUIRED to attend.

Give me a break!! Session = Classes ….not again

But, then learning is a continuous process…so, why worry. This one would be different.

There were a number of sessions conducted by a host of experienced “volunteers” as they like to be called.

Those I attended were- conflicts, choices, identity, and others based around the theme –IDENTITY.

Don’t ask me what all happened….I am still figuring out there names let apart what happened in them.

All in all , they were supposedly good for many and worthless for others.

Besides, all these, the stomach needs some good food to keep the system working.
So, food is really SIMPLE out here. Mark me on this.

Ek dum “saada “. Why??---simple eating good thinking.

The best part which I’ll pick would be two things –

washing / cleaning dishes

serving

Now, this was perhaps the first time I washed dishes- in short – “bartan saaf karma.”

And how did it I feel…that only the pics (for private circulation only) would tell.
But, one thing was for sure – I was happy …washing the dishes made me feel good about something. What ,I don’t know.

Here in Asia Plateau, they have this beautiful custom of washing dishes all by yourself. You eat well, and then wash the dish yourself.

Another important thing is serving and taking together i.e. – We as students were divided into groups…each group were marked for one particular task - washing / serving.

Also, when you eat on a table, any one person volunteers to pick up all the plates of the other people on that table and it’s his/her duty to take them to the kitchen.

Besides this, small things count a lot here. These are the things which give those yummy toppings on that final dish of manners.

We were taken for a small trek to the table tops – Panchgani (5 tops / 5 table tops)

Treks are great and especially when you know that the view from the top would be mesmerising.

Each day saw us learn new things.

Growing in the areas of honesty, love, unselfishness and purity.

The walk around the rock view and valley view edificio’s was simply too good.

There was plenty to take-away from this 4 day camp. It’s on individual to individual what they take.

The sole aims of such visits are making the world a better place to live. And no one but the individuals can do this.

So,all those who read this blog entry start right here right now..contributing in your own special way in making you a good global citizen and your world a place to come for.

For details about the MRA visit them @ - http://www.in.iofc.org/

Journeys are memorable !!!

2008-11-12T08:04:00.004+05:30

Now it’s not my fault if I meet good people on my way!!

Same thing happened this time.

June 4 was the day I left Delhi for Pune. No way similar, to Karishma leaving Abhishek for Sunjay!!

And whom I met it’s already been written,earlier.

NOW, October 25 was the day I was earmarked to go to Delhi.

See, after so long SIIB gives time to its “brand ambassadors” to go home.

As it was Diwali time needless to say the very reliable Bhartiya Rail was out of tickets.

Thanks to my lovely people in Delhi, they somehow managed to get two tickets. (Me and my roomie).

Yes, waiting tickets!!

But, they were close to 100% sure that it would be confirmed.

I was more than sure!

But, it not always happens as the way you like it to be.

So, whatever may be the reasons we were UNCONFIRMED :-( (May be diwali time, Friday.....)

Believe me; going to Delhi after a long time, close 28 hours journey, you can't expect anything wrong to happen.
But, MBA’s are made to be flexible and positive at all times. (We had no other options.)
We boarded the train and VOLA!! There were students all around .But, the baggage they were carrying made me think if at all they would be coming back ever.

Won't go into details.

I met my or rather we traced out one of our classmates who was sweet and kind enough to help us. (She had to)

All the baggage which included the laptops, were kept in safe custody with her.

And the rest, here and there. :-)

Believe me; noone helps you in such situations. Exceptions are always there.

Honeslty, if I were at her place, sleeping with three laptop bags on the seat, is just not easy.

Kudos to her for all the help!!

Now, this is about it. Rest we managed :-)

About the return journey.

This is was much better. A confirmed ticket .A new train. And some new people. I was travelling alone :-(

But,the moment I entered I saw the entire cabin, where my seat was, was already filled with baggage. My gosh ! Who the hell was travelling!

Soon, I was told by a visibly tensed aunty that - "my daughter has one ticket confirmed. And 5 of her friends had waiting tickets".

What to more to say. I understand things pretty fast. Right Neha!
So, because it was Delhi, because Dad and........ were with me and as usual we had our armed guards, my luggage was given due respect and in it went.

So the journey started.

Soon, the aunt’s daughter's friend's (OK ... Pankhuri's friends) realised nothing GOOD was to happen that they wished for. No seats.

I know how it feels!!! :-)

Then in front of the my seat( side upper and side lower ) came 3 dudes !....what do I say , hmm,innocent looking people .

All three students. Two from BVP, Pune and the other from MIT, Pune.

I was feeling bored. I tried hard to wrap my Statistics Worksheets ,but, believe me I love " to marro gappein". Whenever time permits.That’s exactly what I did.

Came down from my seat (upper birth) and that was it!!

They say time flies so fast when you're enjoying.

True.

We never knew when it flew!

Those three were so very innocent. With the freshness of recent 12 pass out ,doing engineering ,trying to adjust to the hostel life ,I walked back into my initial days of Engineering College life.

Really, the innocent questions they asked, the way their eyes looked up to me for I don't know for what, the hope, the positivity and the freshness they had made me realised that time has gone by.

I am a grown up now. Someone whom people can ask for help/suggestion/gyaan. uh ho uh ho !!

And I was game.

I tried my best to answer what all possible wide reached queries they had in minds.

Whenever you travel through MP, make sure, at Bhopal, you have lassi.ONLY SANCHI's.(local milk cooperative's product). - the boys said.

Whenever I am in a fix,I prefer to go for the products that have been recommended to me by my trusted reviewers.

See you learn things from so many people. No matter if they are elder, younger or just like you.
They told me about the famous "lassi of Sanchi” which is a must have, which they bought for me and I was fida for this gesture.

Hmmm....

What else, as you grow up you tend to be rigid. Little flexible. Tough to change ideas/beliefs.

But inside us all we have a child, who is innocent and always in need of pampering.
So, try to let out that child in you more often than you think you need!!

It was a good journey. Both ways.

Something to blog about :-)

PS-Did I miss anyone?
Pankhuri.....an Engg. Working for a Pune based company.
And and and.....

That’s about it!!

Coolie!

-Mini Punjabb -

2008-08-04T09:58:00.005+05:30

Day - Sunday 03 August , 2008.

My watch says - 10:49 pm.

We had classes till 7 pm :-( ..so decided to go out for khana. And rest they say is history.

Starts -

Just came back.....from ? ? wait wait...........batata hoon....chill !!

Me , Nimit and Ronny (roomies) were desperate to "GO-OUT" for some Ghar ka khana. Aha....kitna acha hota tha ghar ka khana.....yummy....

Now,we had zeroed in on one place-called as " GHAR KA KHANA".Loads was expected.But,I guess,we weren't expected.

Went there and vola ! The gates were closed !! F***** .....yes !! the stars were laughing and so were we . :-(

Now what the hell !!

[Ek toh mein hardly "bahar khane"ko jata hoon....and then this thing is closed.

OK."Ghar ka khana"goes into the recycle bin .As of Now.]

No second chances....I am Karan - remember me ?

Now where ? Well,Ronny was out...out as in out of hostel....so he wanted or rather made sure that none was going back to the hostel mess.

And then....lighting striked.....Dimaag ki batti jal gaye....AND THIS IS WITHOUT MENTOS.

I recalled a familiar name called as - MINI PUNJAB. Wow !!Punjab.....needless to say it ought to be great !!

And then when you have strong list of people backing you ,which included :

siddharth manuja
rohit bhatnagar
millan samal
.....................and the likes.........

........have all been there and ate to full.

So,Nimit lets go ! Mini Punjab.

For the starters it's called - Lala's Mini Punjabb . ( note that extra "b" - numerology - oh my !!)

As,it's my rule,always ask for the menu card ,politely and READ through carefully.Read what ? hmmm that's upto you !!Individual you're.

And yes ! it paid.

Nimit and Ronny wanted to try their hand at NON-VEG.But,they never tried. Why ? Kyuuun ? Well,when a chicken tikka costs 240+ its better not to try.

As we looked here and there it was good old VEG. food that all came back to.I am VEGGIE.:-)

So,what we ordered -

Roti - Rs 9

Panner Butter masala - Rs 99

Kadai Paneer-Rs 99

Dal makhani-Rs 99

BELIEVE ME.You would .

ONE SHOULD NOT SAY.But, THE FOOD WAS............OOOOVVVVVVAAAAAAAaaaa

Yes..It was. Why the hell did we came ? Who in the world told Mr.lala to open a Mini Punjab? Let apart opening,why use the name Punjab ? And degrade it's entire value.

I STRONGLY URGE ....PLZ DON'T EVER GO AND VISIT THIS SHIT PLACE.THE PLACE AND THE FOOD SUCKS !! 100%.

And I was cursing all those who recommended or gave there views to "this must visit" place.

In case you forget - the address is -

Lala's Mini Punjabb
Bombay - Pune Road,
Near Wakad Flyover
Pune,MH.
India

What about the ambience .Something are left unsaid. And what do you expect @ 10:30 pm + ,Hinjewadi,Pune ? ?

Aha.....need to watch the movie - 300.

btw-what's for the breakfast !! atleast chai and bread would do.

Life Rocks @ a different place ...........still.....

2008-06-12T21:24:00.003+05:30

No worries !!
I am here !! I am back !!

There was / may be , still a brief stay or hault but that's the way life is !! :-)
A lot has gone by in the few fast forward weeks.

A lot more is still awaited :-)
So where was I or rather where I might be ..... that only 2 persons can tell - Karan and God !!
So I am here , why disturb god !!

@ Train Journey

It was a long journey .... a fatiguing one but as I always say you never pass judgements so quickly !!

So We were 4 people...and then there was this sweet bubbly girl - MIND IT ...a lawyer in making.... wow !! These days you don't find that a sweet bubbly lawyer girls :-)
Besides being a sweet girl the one thing which I liked was the fact that her Dad was an IPS !! man !! I love/respect/admire/ these IAS /IPS people. The real India.

The journey was long...very long...and Indian trains you know....how "FAST" they are ...
From evening assorted voices started doing the rounds......which contuniued till we got down at our destination....poor people who were still there .......
"Chai Chai " Tea - Tea "........"garam garam samosa"...."paani paani " uff....aur kuch bhi hai....

Then there was this person whom I think might have been a good bet at one of those top B-Schools !! like Symbi's and all what was his tagline - " Namkeen wala idhar hai , aapka dhyaan kidhar hai " - BELIEVE ME . His basket of namkeen was full when he started his trip and with this tagline the basket was near it's end when he returned !! huh !!

Marketing is a tough nut to crack .

What else - as always the train food was --yyuukkkk -- but we had some delicious cherries which were sweet as the owner.

PS - I COULD HAVE TAKEN THE AIR ROUTE BUT WITH ABOUT 6 BAGS LOADED TO CAPACITY I HAD NO OPTION BUT TO TAKE LALU JI's HELP.

@ Pune -

As always Indian stations are every busy,ever crowded and ever and ever chaos.Pune was no exception.
But as sometimes , I was a bit happy in this chaos as well . How ?
Well,CARS. What better way if someone comes to pick you up :-) The entire journey's pines away....

The car was loaded but what about the rest of the load. You can't expect an Esteem to behave like a Bolero. So ,bring a Bolero.

And it actually came. How ? The sweet kind-hearted lawyer girl came to the rescue. And it was a sigh of relief.

And what next ? Come on ....we need to sit in the cars and go :-)

@ Campus -

Pune and rains are like bread and butter.So need I say more.
The "mausam" was lovely and so was the campus. Beautiful.Wait !!

Hostel ? Anyone ? Yup !! Let's c the hostel dude .

or the Hall of residence as it's called ! It's not just any hostel. It's more than a hostel.
With a huge room , attached washrooms and ample space, decent food what more could you ask for in a hostel !!

@ THE PLACE

Pune is a special place. For two reasons . second one is .........Went to meet them at @ private place. Lovely ambience , great food ! Cool mausam !

More to come....

PS - It's not always good to think what you listen When you actually see for yourself it's then the pictures get clear !! I know NOW.You remember .

This "message"is for the person who understands it well.And I know the actual intended person would know now.....

Marriages - The lost "charm"

2008-06-02T05:00:00.004+05:30

Old is gold !! So, you never ward of the clutter from your household ??

May be yes may be not !! That's a personal choice........or a family selection...

I don't know WHY ,but,of lately,in the gone-by year 2007 I myself have witnessed or rather seen a number of people who are still - UNMARRIED ?? !!

huh !! No . They are not waiting for me. Neither they are doing anything that high that they are fending off this "grand" celebration.

So,what is it. that is / has , blocked there path to this wonderful institution ?? I have no clues .

BUT,I HAVE THOUGHTS. AS ALWAYS.

Girls,mostly, are nearing / have crossed the age mark of 25.
This apart , some have even skipped over the 35 + mark.

Why ? Why so late ? What's the reason ?

There are an infinity of them -->

WORK PROGRESS
STUDY / EDUCATION
MAKING A MARK-CAREER WISE
SHATTERED / BETRAYED RELATION
SOME NEVER HAD THE TIME TO THINK ABOUT IT ..... :-(
WAITING FOR MR.RIGHT WAS A BAD THOUGHT

AND AND....SOME MIGHT SAY....THE MATCHES WERE FOUND BUT THE HOROSCOPES WERE NOT !!

Good enough grounds for a simple -NO.

Not your fault. May be you never thought that this would be such a high mess issue at a later stage. Now that you're settled , reasonably,you think when your good old school pals are asking you about there son's / daughter's pre-nursery admission -YOU FEEL THE HEAT.

So,what stopped you ?
Your attitude , parents , your never say give -up spirit , your work ,your study or may be your STARS.

That only you could say / tell . How do I know !! ??

All I can make out is that you're - LATE .

Yes ! Everything has a time . A RIGHT TIME. Which in most of the above cases has gone-by .
May be you were not at fault. May be you were . But,the end result is you LOST .

Had you been a little more flexible , a trivial positive and had the power to adjust you would be sitting with the "pictures of flowers/animals/sojourns , with your little ones " .

You missed it ALL.

Some would say there is NO FAULT OF OURS. AGREED !! Then is it mine !
Say YES and then be honest enough to recite your story.
Look what all went wrong , when , why and what could be done at that time.

I am sure ,solutions would flow.Even if they don't you'll be in a better position to know yourself more than anytime .

Gone time won't come .So would the gone life. So,try if you can help noone but yourself .

PS- IT'S NOT ONLY FOR FEMALES, BUT, FOR MALES AS WELL. BECAUSE IF THEY ARE STILL THERE THEN YOU TOO MUST BE NOT VERY FAR.

btw- try this tongue twister -

"Peetal ke patele mein papita peela peela pada pada papita patele mein "

"MIG"ration - move to move

2008-06-01T09:00:00.007+05:30

Ever marveled as to why do we walk ? What is the movement all about ? Is it really required ? Can't life be easy and smooth ? Why change ? Why keep on locomoting? Give it a thought. Use your top power.

Change is here.Change is essential .You change everyday as the milieu around you switches. These are some of the old banalities that you took heed ,time and again.

Lets start with the "online" part(since its fast and used even faster). Earlier ,it was hotmail,aol and the likes....then came in yahoo and now gmail. Changed your email. Blogging started off with blogspot now it's flip-flopping towards wordpress. Orkut,then came facebook ,wayn....and another set of "buddy webs".

Earlier you used rediff/yahoo messengers .Now ,please come on Gtalk. WHY ? WHY change ? Why keep alternating ?

What is / was the primary need of such things ? TO BE IN TOUCH. STAY CONNECTED. Someone says dating,making new friends...... Now when you log in and see your orkut - 600+ friends , 3000+scraps, 100+ testimonials,100+videos / album pics nuff. Do you really stay connected with all those 600 "unique"individuals. Or was it that "he added me on and I too. OVER.

I still retrieve the day when I joined orkut after never-ending doggedness of my gang members. That day , I logged in and out of orkut - recall.....roughly 8o times. ECHO. What the F ?Me so purblind . I came in to check who visited ,who scrapped ,who added me...... What was I thinking ? Is this why I am here ? If I genuinely need to be in touch with my allies -where is my phone ? OK cell-phone . This also migrated. Call them up.Fix and meet. FAST AND GREAT. But,NO. "He" joined facebook. I am also joining facebook. Let's delete Orkut. Poor testimonials :-( They say you start we will accompany. ha ha ha Man the "thinker " .Where's the thinking gone ? Bhagwaan janee......

People spend hours on these forums , clicking profiles,adding ,talking on and on and on. How many "new friends" have you made ? Did you find your soulmate ? You wrote a testimonial and did you get one in return ? Can't take it.... I suppose you translated my intents .YES ! That's what counts. I am on orkut. I use yahoo. Till the time "change" comes and say.....need to move out.....KARAN.... Someonetold me ,life's short.....why ravage it !!!

Karan @ the tooth doctor's infirmary

2008-06-01T09:00:00.005+05:30

huh !! kya kya karna padta hai..............kya kya likhna padta hai..................jab panga le liya toh DARNA KYA....Lets Blog ...

Day - Monday Morning
Time - 6:10 am
Place - my "personal" BEDroom

Mom came calling......."wake up" !! If you want to go "

Still in my dreams ( currently at an unknown location) ........
I replied -the usual way - "KYA HO GAYA "..... :-(

Mom said - "Riya called in....You need to go for your appointment ".

Believe me guys - You say / tell /remind anything to girls make sure YOU LEAVE IT. BECAUSE THEY WON'T TILL THE TIME THEY TELL YOU.

So,what was the fuss all about . Atleast let me start my system.....

booting........
checking files.........

aha !! 1 match found.

DENTIST .

Oh what the f***......kya yaar.....itne subah.......yukk.......

Enough...I said....off from my bed into the washroom....and READY I WAS.

It was my annual / monthly /quaterly ( pata nahein kaun si wali ) appointment / check up with my dentist.

As expected,Riya was before time to pick me up......slothful I am !

And zoommmmm we went....

Day - Monday Morning
Time - 8:50- am
Place - @ my dentist's inn

"Hey Sweety.....Before time, great" - SHE SAID.

STANDING THERE IN A NEAT WHITE COAT ,LOOKING STUNNING AT 5'8'' ,THERE SHE WAS MY DENTIST.....haiiiii.....how beautiful are these dentists these days...Must try out @ one of those Gladrags....I thought

She is a BDS ,MDS....(look google for help).....and she's someone to go FIDA for.

As we entered into her chamber ,shaking I was .........

KYA KYA KARNA PADTA HAI FOR THAT SMILE . KAASH BRUSH KAR LIYA HOTA.MORNING AND NIGHT TOH AAJ AARAM SE SO RAHA HOTA...... :-(

So I sat SORRY SLEPT on the dentist chair......and tak..tak...the lights were ON.
With some horrible equipments she started surveilling my tooth arena.

Found something.....NAAH .....SEE I AM SO GOOD WITH BRUSHING. :-)

So,can I RUN AWAY. NO....... :-(

Let's do some cleaning ,sampling and may be drilling.....OH shhhh !
Riya...you're no more today if I get even a single bleed.

And there she started .What...That you ask her.
I was looking @ her all the time.She's so pretty ,so caring and SUCH A GOOD DOCTOR SORRY DENTIST.

After all that bleeding and wiping SPARKLE - MY TEETH WERE WHITE AS IN WHITE OF THE *******.... noo...not vanilla.It's called PURE WHITE. :-)

Done.I quested her. YES sweety. DONE. Itni jaldi...:-(

huh !! What a fill-in. chalo...let's go......for a Koffee with Karan @ Costa C

So,what all DID YOU LEARNT MY READERS.

1.DENTISTS ARE DENTISTS NOT DOCTORS.
2.FEMALES MAKE A BETTER DENTIST.
3.THEY ARE SIMPLY STUNNING AND SWEET.THEY TAKE ALL YOUR TEETH WITH THERE SMILE.
4.PLEASE GO FOR A CHECK-UP ONCE IN 6 MONTHS.
5.DON'T DO SMOKING.WHY.....THAT YOU HAVE TO SEE FOR YOURSELF WHAT DO THE SMOKERS HAVE TO GO THROUGH @ THAT CHAIR.
6.EAT SANELY.
7.BE A VEGGIE.
8.BRUSH REGULARLY IN A PROPER MANNER AND IF YOU CAN -FLOSS.

MORE.............kuch toh wahan jaake seekh lo.........

btw- must be cogitating what RIYA WAS UPTO ??
HA HA HA HA .........SHE'S WAS THERE TO GET HER DENTURES REMOVED........................ :-)
She'll kill me for this.Love you "32" much !!

When do we go next ?

Change -- We believe In

2008-05-15T18:55:00.016+05:30

Took time ! Yeah !! It did !! Blogging is not an easy walk.

Have you ever wondered that "someone" whom you never met before ( till the day they meet you) ,"someone" whom you never thought off actually comes and takes you by a stride.

"Someone" tells you something and you listen to them with apt attention. "Someone" might ask you to change or may not even say anything but the feeling remains within you that there is something to say.

This is friendship.These are relations. This is love. This is life.

I often think that when parents say something to me regularly ,what friends suggest me to do ,I never do. As in , it takes time to be performed.And then one day this "someone " comes ,tells me and vola !! I do it ~~
FIRST AND FAST !

Why ? What was it that I immediately agreed about to this "someone" ?
Is it that I don't listen to my parents or I don't value the comments of my friends. ?
NO. It's just that it doesn't gets clicked so easily.
"Sometimes when you want to click a beautiful picture IT DOESN'T COMES WELL.AND THEN ONE FINE DAY YOU CALL YOURSELF THE BEST "lensman / lenswomen" .

This is the power of friendship. Might of love. The start of a relation.

Sometimes,you need "someone" who can just come and say to you what you thought to yourself but never had the courage to implement it.

The power,the energy ,the vibes that this "someone" gives to you takes you on cloud 9.

This is what is called scope for improvement which exists in everyone.

No one is perfect. Agreed !! No one should.

But,if "someone" wants to make you close to perfection what's the harm. If the intentions are pious , the genuineness is there you should go for it.

Everyone has there own set of bad and good things which I guess everyone is aware of .We also know what is hindering us from becoming a good person. But,that vibe from within never comes that high....
This "someone" has it all .May be most.

I have seen people change or rather go through a sea change . The moment they get into a relationship it's like all guns blazing for them. They both are fresh,pious at the start and can do whatever it takes to make the other person happy. And for that some changes are needed.

Something which ONLY THIS "someone" COULD HAVE DONE.

It's good ! You learn from your mistakes and sometimes from others as well. Scope for improvement is always there . We need to sense it.

Relationships are beautiful.However, one thing which you should remember always is the change should be for your good.It does not changes the person you are.It only refines you.

You learn everyday something from someone. If you go on changing then you'll be CHANGED FOREVER .This is not desired.

"Someone once said, take only what is required , eat only how much you want to and give only as much as you have"

So,the next time a person wants to improve you , change you think .THINK AGAIN .You'll get the answer yourself.

[And who is this someone -well it could anyone.
Friends,siblings,parents,associates,people around you,even the most dull looking person at the traffic signal.Anyone.It's for you to decide,act and use your power of thinking.

All relations are good till the time TRUST IS THERE AND INTENTIONS ARE UNADULTERATED.

One said "In a relation you can give the nicest things you have and you can be one of the best persons you ever thought."

Kuch samajh aaya.........aajayega.........picture abhi baaki hai mere dost........

Which one are you going 4 ?

2008-05-07T11:10:00.004+05:30

MOVIES- PICTURE -

What is the kick-off thing or perchance the terminal one that peeps into your top story aka mind. Well,everyone might have there own stipulative definition of a movie / flick - a good one or a bad one . Also,varied reasons to watch one. And....lets leave.......is the timing also important ?

For me -YES. Some watch it because they have been inclined to hear/see some sort of a taradiddle,grandma's style.

To start with one of the primary reasons to watch a movie is -CONNECT.....to be exact-DISCONNECT. In this demanding life of today,everyone needs some time out or rather trick some time out from there not so-happy schedule of the day and invest in watching a movie. A good valid excuse. This helps them to just focus , be chilled out,be at pace,and think about there own problems by the way of watcing the movie screening.Some actually sleep....for them rest is important. But,do you think every movie teaches you something ? There is somehing good about it always ?Well,now this depends upon you - what is your primry purpose of watching one. Each has a own school of thought.

Some may say :-- I LIKE MUSIC-THIS HAS AMAZING SONGS ROMANTIC TO THE CORE -RAJ styles FIGHTS-Sunny ,arnold and the likes .... DRAMA-Includes those "saazish" bitching"........you know and and....the SENTI ONES........... Might be some other genres as well.....(adult and tom-jerry.....)

Now,if you ask me,from the time I actually started empathizing movies I have watched or rather been more inclined towards our Hindi - Indian Film Industry.[English ones have started in my college times.The new craze to be different and make a style statement.College Life you know....] Hindi movies that included the usual - fights,drama,motion-more or less the same story lines but with a twist. Now,I am a bit grown -up .A bit. So,have the choices changed ? YES.

Now I "choose" rather than just watch. I also hear and value what the reviews/ critics say about the movies.I check them out through the songs,the trailers,may be cast and crew and some other desired factors. I watch or prefer watching those which ENTERTAIN , MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD ,GIVE YOU SOME "GYAAN", MAKE YOU A BETTER PERSON AND MAY BE VALUE FOR MONEY AND TIME INVESTED.

Agreed ! Sometimes,you don't need any of these. YES. There are some movies which I call as " bena -siir pair[BSP] " ones. Just time-pass and pure fun.

So,you would like to know some - OK.My picks

Movies like - Ankahee , Life Mein Kabhie Kabhiee,Hum-Tum,Tum-Bin,Stop,Agaar,Traffic Signal,Page 3 , Main Meri patni aur woh,Khosla Ka Ghosla,Sarafarosh,Lamhe....a long list...these are some of my personal duckies. You may have watched them ,might have hated or loved them....but,I personally found them good and really well put up.

[BSP]Fun movies - Chameli Ki Shaadi(heard about it) :-),Andaaz Apna Apna,Jab We Met.....all in all time-pass and full light weight movies. Some more to add on...but....the list is endless.

You got a thought,to say with. And and,these also apprize you.That's upto you what you're looking for. I prefer watching movies at the comfort of my home.

Though ,there are some grueling people who somehow manage to take me out my comfort zone and sit for a movie in those PVR's or Mutiplexes and watch movies like -SINS. ........[sit down ,sit down - SHINY AHUJA actually,became an actor]

I prefer watching movies in the Afternoons or Nights. That's when I am free as compared to the other shifts.And if I don't like it in the starting then I make a move.

So,the next time when you watch a movie , make sure "you CHOOSE" so that you know what are you seeing. Every friday before you go out on a date, read about the reviews / the critics take ,on them ,So that incase,you get the wrong tickets or may be you enter into the wrong show, you know that you're looking for this movie that had [3 heroes and 5 heroines]

Watching - Assassins - Julianne Moore is pretty !!! Is she single after divorcee ???

Before you say I do.....WAIT !

2008-05-03T14:05:00.012+05:30

As the big day comes closer , your heart races with excitement each time you think of it and the married life that awaits you.Who has the time to spare serious thoughts for any PRE-MARITAL MEDICAL TESTS and Counselling ?

Well,don't take them lightly.If you really want to do everything you can to ensure your happily -ever after ,doctors recommend that your partner and you go in for some pre-marital health tests or even counselling.

By and large, pre-marital medical tests are easily categorised into three types -

TESTS FOR SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS,
GENETIC CONDITIONS and
REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH AND FERTILITY.

-----------------------------------------------------------

SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS-

Bringing up these tests with your partner may be a delicate issue.However,it would be foolish to assume that neither of you have been sexually active and hence carry no risk of any sexually transmitted infection. An HIV-AIDS test is a MUST,though it's a delicate topic to broach for young couples.I've seen many of our women patients [ thanks to my parents - Doctors ,they are :-) ] suffer after marriage when they contacted the HIV virus from their husbands.

GENETIC TRAITS AND HEREDITY

Knowing about your genetic condition is very important as soe hereditary traits can affect the health of your child.

Example - Both your partner and you may suffer from a genetically passed-on condition .While you may not suffer from it yourself ,if both of you are carriers of the condition ,there is a large risk that it may be passed on to the child.

Some tests may include - Polycystic kidney disease,haemophilia,muscular dystrophy and sickle cell anaemia.

REPRODUCTIVE CAPABILITY AND FERTILITY

These tests ascertain the reproductive capabilities of both partners.The need for these depends on how keen you two are to have a child once you are married.

Some tests may include - Hormone function tests and Analysis

PRE - MARITAL COUNSELLING

Finally,if as a couple ,there are issues that you still need to sort,you should also opt for a few pre-marital counselling sessions that will help you gear up for the life ahead.

"In India match-making is still done on basis of horoscopes(somebody says something.....) and the religious and financial backgrounds of the two families .It is high -time that we start ascertaining the compatibility of the couple on more practical and realistic grounds with the help of pre-marriage counselling and medical tests"

Ultimately,anything that helps the couples tie the knot with more confidence and start their relationship on a sounder footing,should be looked upon favourably.

(With inputs from -the medical team & my friends who are now newly pass-outs Doctors from MAMC & King Grant's Medical College & my fav. doctor :-) )

After all , HUM NAHEIN BOLENGE TOH KAUN BOLEGA !!

The Journey .........

2008-05-01T09:27:00.003+05:30

Left Delhi at night...had to...because its better to reach in the morning when the university opens up and people are still somewhat fresh ! University ? Huh ! Needed some documents from my Engg. Univ. :-) Took the train - Golden Temple mail - the name was a relief....but,inside was more..... Had a side lower berth, so,was happy....BUT THERE WERE LADIES BANG OPPOSITE MY BERTH ! GOSH ! I NEED TO SLEEP. So,they were 5 of them ( 4 ladies and 1 old father like person) To my dismay he spoke more than the combined 4.

Topics - All worth unworthy. I started with my food-home made,[so that I am one job less to do].So had to be good ! After listening to a few songs,browsing through my magazines and preparing to sleep....BANG !there came the packet filled with - ACHAAR AMRITSARI down ! It was saved. Don't thank me !! And then opened up the pitara of punjabi khana-lots of them....can't tell you.....I was already through with my dinner :-(...It was 11:00 pm..and THERE dinner started.....ate more talked even more....One said my son is in Lovely Insti. of Tech. ,Jalandhar - that's Lovely,Aunt ! other said my daughter's name is lovely ! ha ha ha...

I laughed ! anyways,the food was done....the TTE came and said its a public transport so,please let the public sleep....I am also being referred !... Why do they talk so much !? What is it that they left at home that they spend hours talking about ?...

Ladies and public need to remember that please let the people sleep.....in the trains....switch off lights....NO SMOKING...(there was a lady 23-25 yrs "sutta" marring......)....

Happy Journey.......

HAVELI -the original one

2008-05-01T09:26:00.002+05:30

Though my trip was very short....A sweet friend of mine from Jalandhar.....told me to must visit -HAVELI. Haveli - is a Traditional Punjabi Veg. Dhaba.THATS IT.
You have to see yourself what kind of a "dhabba" is it ! Centrally AC,folk themes all around ,great ambeince,neatly clad punjabi attired waiters.....and the jatt durbans.
And and FRESH VEG.PUNJBAI STYLE FOOD --WHATS MORE !

I loved the place.....very well done......also has TATA TRUCK at the reception....and a seating arrangement called"-MACHAN"...all is good in here.... Outside....they have a small set up of a punjabi village and folk culture..... YES ! You need to buy a ticket....and then are shop selling punjabi jutti's + gabru shirts(425 only :-( ) + other collectable items... for kids a place called - KILKARIAYAN" . I didn't go ! :-(
The washrooms have neatly engraved door signs saying - GABRU & MUTIYAAR.

The best part[must try] are - sweet lassi,dal wala paratha's....chatti di lassi...and......halwa......
The worst part - the waiters stand on your head for tips and gives you a look that -[if you don't tip us well...then " kutt pane haan"]

All in all a must vist whenever you come to Jalandhar.It was real hot in the afternoon.

App.7-8 kms from Jalandhar City.... trivia- It's run by a JAIN family.
Address - GT Road, Jalandhar-Phagwara Highway, Jalandhar.

Je Aayan Nu !

Pune पुणे

2008-04-26T23:51:00.002+05:30

Likhna hai.....kya likhoon......kya bacha hai.....kya tha.....

hmm......lets see agar kuch mil jata hai.....

Let's talk about my recent Pune visit -

Well, I may not be the best person on insights on Pune , but,would like to share my experince .Visited Pune,for the first time for the -second round .Stayed at a place very near to the railway station.Shivaji Nagar.First thing noticed was - No helmets !! Speeding vehicles zooming in from every corner. Chaos ! Girls or to be more refined - Females, wearing a "Refined"version of a "Hijab"(Kattar muslim women wear to cover there head). Almost all are clad in this .Top it all,they wear glares..so,no scope left to see the faces !! There was a reason for wearing one - Pollution and protection against Sun and Dust !! Accepted !Next,a word called as " Peths" was doing the rounds.Peth is the general name for a locality in old Pune..some female said ! Some of the Peths are named after the days of the week. OK. get it.On recommendation visited , Dagdusheth Ganpati & Shanivar Wada ! Liked them !Went to FC (Fergusson College to meet someone ).Nice college. !!Ate vada-pau & (िचवडा). No comments.All familiar & popular food chains like Pizza Hut, McDonalds, Subway, KFC, Dominos, Pizza Express, Smokin Joe's etc have their presence in Pune..why not !!Hinjewadi was a personal favourite. Peace and serene.All in all a good limited exposure !!

Our Mother - The Earth

2008-04-25T11:05:00.001+05:30

Yes ! She's the one who actually handles you and gives you whatever you need.
Ever realised , what did she asked in return from you ? NO.
Who has the time to even give a thought about her needs.......So,busy.....we all are...so alone she always was.

How many of us recall that we recently celebrated EARTH DAY ? EARTH DAY - WHAT'S THAT ,dude ? Was it a holiday ? Never heard about it ?

Poor you.......This what we call sheer lack of concern.Ask you when is the next Indo-Pak cricket match...bang comes in the reply

Earth Day is held every year on the - 22 April . REMEMBER IT THE NEXT TIME.

What were you suppose to do ? Virtually NOTHING . Practically EVERYTHING.

From Tokyo to Togo, to the flagship event on the National Mall in Washington, DC and 7 other U.S. cities,from Kuwait to New Delhi, millions of people around the world were united behind a Call for Climate, the "global warming action" theme. Hundreds of events were popping up all over the globe and April 22 would be a memorable Earth Day,they said. Everyone would be asking people to call their government and urge significant and equitable action on climate change.Every individual was asked to play a role of a lifetime.

What can you do,now ? You as in INDIVIDUAL ? A LOT . They say charity begins at home so why not start from YOUR home.

OK.So,what is it that you can do !?

Start with the easy ones...Just 1 thing.....as of now....

Reuse your plastic shopping bags: use them as trash so as not to buy others that are more energy wasting; use them for storage.
Use paper bags rather than plastic bags when you are given the choice.
Use reusable grocery bags, which always have a lower environmental impact.

Just this one step of the many would go in a long way to save our earth.

LETS SAY NO TO PLASTIC.

--------------------------------------------

......HOIST THE SAILS!

Four billion years ago
Our lonely Earth
Set sail on cosmic seas
Guided by an unseen hand
Of nature, God or chance.

As life evolved
Through endles eco-cycles
Man was born, destined
To destroy or enrich
the Precious Ship.

And now his hand
Has seized the tiller
But his ear has not
Yet caught the Captain's
Quiet command.

The sails are down, the ship becalmed,
Its fragil life at stake.
No longer do we ride the gentle swells of
Silent seas and breathe
The fragrant air.

Broken are the rhythms
Of our cyclic plants
And other living things.

But now the Captain speaks again
Our quiet thoughts at last reveal his voice.

"Hoist the sails, Earth Man.
Set them for celestial winds.
Hold the tiler firm,
The course ahead is clear."

Be He nature, God or chance
His voice is heard
And we shall heed
The Captain's quiet command.

~Anonymous

Birthdays - Either you remember before time or next year on time !

2008-04-24T14:55:00.003+05:30

Costa Coffee ....on of my deary places....as they say a lot can happen over a cup of coffee....remember. A LOT.
Kind of a make-break situation.... :-)

Sunday evenings are usually free , so was out with my gang.....abridged in number....was enjoying my regular one ....and then...

A couple ( according to me when A men and A women are together for a coffee cup better to call them as a company rather than individuals )....came in. Looked like it was there usual rendezvous.

Since, light travels faster than sound,people appear brighter before you hear them speak.

Acha.....so,they sat somewhat next to us and even before the AC could cool them off...she started......."This is the second time in two years .You missed it again ."

Generally,its a "gandi-baat" to listen to people's talk, but when they say at "surround" sound's the ears catch them .LOUD AND CLEAR.

Thought,he missed it again by not asking her father about there future. :-)

(...Apne beti ka haath mujhe de do...Uncle.....aka Future FIL .....Plz.......)

But,NO.

Galat Jawab. He missed her birthday.......and by how many days......
of what I heard....by 2 minutes.....

Pat came the reply....." I messaged you at 12 but,somehow never reached .

Oh brother....the door bell or your mobile phone will always ring when you are in the bathroom......Same with your birthday message.

"So,it never got delievered"- he WANTED TO ask...On this she said-"there is something called as delivery reports".

Oh my......somebody help this poor soul out.....kya hua....agar late ho gaye toh.....atleast he thought in his thoughts about her and wished her "happy birthday". So,what if the message never came.....This is direct dil-dil link.

NO.This is next-gen. If you miss you loose.

Birthdays are important.I agree.More important to wish also.But,does it really matters if you're late....may be genuinely late.No second chance. WHY ? When you say you understand the opposite person more than you do then why a pinch of time-lag nicks the relation that critically. There are times,when people don't remember there own birthdays.These are the people who remember "your"Birthdays. Religiously. But,galti toh ho jaati hai. Most important thing is wishing from your heart. Even if you forgot or you're late ,make a point to wish . This will be more than "wishing on time".

What say....this is what I follow.........or rarther started to follow after a few heavy doses :-(

And, the next time you message make sure you call.That's better & safe.
Atleast you have the right to say I gave you a call which got termed as a "missed call". Your Job done.

One call once a year....not a big-ticket na......to rekindle the relation.

And I'll like to add . DON'T MENTION THE WORD - TREAT . Come on . Are you that hungry to get one. Your job is to wish "janamdin mubarak" . FINISH. No hopefulnesses !

Rest,the birthday person is healthy enough to ask you if would like to have one.

Let me remember -- who's birthday is coming.......hmmmm........still time..........

Jab "they" Met

2008-04-24T09:38:00.003+05:30

First came a call ....then a wedding ecard......next the sweet box......?? Foxed ! I was !

But,not for so long.I figure out things quite fast.QUITE,indeed. So,my good old "bat-ball" friend and my Big B was getting married ! I thought since it was April,so I may be heading towards becoming a -"Bakra",anytime. But,its not always true what you think. So,hold your thoughts ..

Yes.He was.How could he ? So soon ? ok ......not that soon.....but still.......

So,the next question or rather conformation was "who's that girl" ?? You never know when people say...No. No girls.Its a....... Better left than said.

So,it was her.....yes....yes......I remember....but,how did this all happen ? So soon ?

The story goes back to one of my deary places - Rajasthan ! [Whenever you in India ,do visit this state.....and for those who are here....whatz kiboshing you ? ]

Raj(aka Rajnesh) met Rashmi at one of our trips to Jaipur.The place where we stayed was near her home. Sometimes,it just get clicked....for no rhyme or reason. They saw ,he asked ,she was a bit hesitant but,it had to.She agreed to take us through a "guided"tour of the city.And yes.....we loved the city and he loved the guide. On our last,day we visited her home.....Ok......The parents were somehow brought into the network......(you see Indians are very good at-"jugaad") :-)

Look who's saying...

Met them at there place for lunch.....yummy it was....before leaving handed over some token of thanks and LEFT.

That was it.

NO.I was wrong.In this "mobile" + "e-world" nothing is impossible.The numbers and emails had already been exchanged.They were on the others gtalk/messenger's list. Wow !Now thats fast. !

So,after trying and talking for almost 1+ years.....Raj said...Lets get it done. I asked so,where's the girl from..( see I hardly remember )..He said you know her.I was like....Ok.....let me check my database.

No results found.....So...now what. He said its "that" girl whom we met at "that" place ....... ?~

Oh.....oh......ho......Sheeee....... How come? When ? Why ? ....all ????? (remembered)

He said....."bus ho jata hai"....and I didn't want to say....."Kaash"

You see,there very few people...who take this much of [risk]....they talk,they try,they work out...and yes-they made things happen. Sometimes,it's better to say your feelings rather than ponder over and over thinking - I know - The answer is "NO".

Be positive,give your best ,in a refined manner and never know when you might be sitting next to your someone and getting clicked !

It happens in a fraction of a second and faster than you can ever imagine.

So,before the train leaves....share your thoughts....so,that you have less "baggage" to take home.

Khama gani.....Rajasthan Padharo....

[PS-Her little sister who is now a Docotor was really cute.And what more she gave me Rajasthani "kadaai" shirt.]

ARMY - THE TRUE WAY OF LIFE

2008-04-23T22:24:00.001+05:30

I have always respected the people who serve the nation. These are the really heroes.
On my way to Mumbai, I had the privilege of sitting with a Major who was travelling to meet his family. He was impressive,as they always are. We shared some good thoughts and he narrated an incident to me of his army training days.

He told me that in Army training you get up at 4 am and do your shave. EVERYDAY. uddi baba

Once,he was on top of a hillock for some activity work where he thought no one would come to check .Also ,his commanding officer was not in at the base camp. So,he thought lets LEAVE THE SHAVING TODAY.

Little did he knew what awaited him .In the noon , a chopper having his CO AND GOC-C came to there camp. Everyone was called in. -See this is what happens when you think you're so smart.-

The CO asked the Major why he hasn't shaved . He was mum.
The CO told him to get a stone ( not a "pathar") and bring it in. Major went out ,bought in the stone .The CO ordered "rub this on your face" till I the time I think you're done.

People,you're quite "enlightened" to infer what happened. His face was bleeding,marked by severe rashes and cuts.PAINFUL TO THE CORE.

The Major told me that was day and till today NO MATTER WHAT HAPPENS,WHERE I AM ,I ALWAYS SHAVE REGULARY & religiously.NEVER HAVE I MISSED IT.

Huh !! people like me should learn something....I was speechless...because I HATE TO SHAVE.
Gosh ! now this is what only ARMY CAN TEACH YOU .

Jai Hind !
Proud of our Army !

RELATIONSHIPS

2008-04-23T12:45:00.003+05:30

Many of my "personal"gang members always come up to me and say -

"Yaar - Ek ladki hai.Bahut pasand karta hoon.But she's a Muslim". END.
"Dost- There is a project manager of mine whom I really like.Only problem is she's too OLD. (agewise) .She also likes me,but ,kambhakht age ! I am 6-7 years younger to her. END.
"Karan-There is someone whom I met online. Chatted ,exchanged numbers and now,we great friends.May be we can settle down.But her parents want to her to get married this year.I need to do my PG and will be in a positon to say yes ,after two years only . END.

These are just some of the taglines people use. If you take a look ,evenly,all these stories....ok.... relations have ENDED.

Why ? What happened ? Where did it went wrong ? What will happen now ?

Huh ! Lots of questions.....

See,it all depends upon you ! You're the ONE who started , who felt happy, who spent time with the other and now you're in a deadlock. So,any easy way out - YES . BAHAR AA JAO. END.

No- it might seem an easy way, but rest assured one of you is going to loose.One of them would cry.One of them would even die.One of them would never be the same again.One of them would never feel like talking to the other one.

WHY ONE OF THEM ? WHAT ABOUT THE OTHER ? WILL HE/SHE go off that easily.May be,but,not that easily.The pain will be there,so will the memories and so will be the BAD moments. What caused all this severe sufferings........yes ! You thought it right. Its YOU.

Had you been clear,focussed and true to yourself this wouldn't have happen ! We get into the sea and let sea swim us around. WHY ? Atleast try swimming......why always yes to everything...say NO sometimes ....

These relations are very fragile.If you loose from either ends they break.if you hold them so tight,you get cut. YES.THEY NEVER HEAL.NEVER.

So,remember what you want.What you look for.

No matter what caste/creed/religion/ages/locations you're different..try to be true to that ONE PERSON YOU WANT TO. People make and give judgements so quickly that life's get changed even before time changes them.

So,people,say your heart out to that PERSON whom you feel like talking/sharing all your worries ,whom you feel that IF HE/SHE IS WITH YOU YOU'RE COMPLETE.DONT EVEN THINK OF ANYTHING ELSE BUT THAT PERSON.MAKE / GIVE REASONS THAT MAKE YOUR "YES" MORE mighty THAN YOUR "NO".

Say na say na....whatever you wanna say....dont be chup-chap.......because - SILENCE KILLS .AND YOU LOOSE.

Difficult to tell what loving is like; Impossible to tell what missing is like; May you never miss whom you luv & may whom you luv miss you always.

Nature has given you a face. But, you have to provide the expression. Be careful! Your Each Expression will leave an impression in others heart.......

Parents.Who am I to say....ANYTHING

2008-04-23T12:22:00.003+05:30

An associate of mine at work- Suparna,recently,left home ! NO.She didn't got married ! Neither was she planning to do sometime soon :-)

She needed someone to talk and there was - Karan .She had a terrible argument with her parents over some issues ( you can guess....the problems of our "NEW" next-gen people).
And she did not bow down.

Instead said all she could to her parents and made them feel as if they were nothing and she no longers needs them now.Out they can go.

What did I suggest ! ? Ha.....I gave her a tight slap....No.I felt like giving one.

I just asked her one thing - DO YOU LOVE YOUR PARENTS ? She took app. 3 minutes to answer.Can you imagine -I saw. This was the real problem. She lost it.

How can / could one require TIME to say -I love my parents.

I just wanna say that -THEY ARE EVERYTHING. NO ONE IS LIKE THEM NO ONE WOULD EVER BE ONE LIKE THEM.

The real problem was as always communication. If you dont talk / share truly ,then better shut up.She wanted to express / say something to them,realised lets leave ,said something other and chaos...what occured !

Always remember parents are NEVER WRONG. THEY MIGHT BE A LITTLE ILL-TIMED , BUT,THEY ARE ALWAYS RIGHT. YOU MAY NOT BE IN A POSITION TO nod your head to what they say / said, but,over time you would be the FIRST one to approve of them.

So,NEVER fight with your parents. NEVER argue.

Saying Sorry won't kill your 10 years in this short life.

You always loose to them.ALWAYS.

So ,RESPECT AND LOVE BECAUSE IF THEY ARE NOT THERE THEN YOU'RE NOWHERE.

Hope to see the change soon.....sunrise is what I prefer.

[What about Suparna]- YES.She did say sorry. She cried.She learnt. That's what matters !

Vikrant and or may be H.

2008-04-23T12:05:00.002+05:30

Vikrant aka Viks is a friend of mine.Got through an Architecture College in Delhi.

Facebook came in.
He joined the newly formed community of his new college. Interacted with some fellow members and SENIORS or "baapji" as they are called.

Liked a senior who happens to be smaller in age than him.

Sit down.Chill ! Just 1 year.

H-->Harpreet -

He got confused so did I. Punjabi names are baffling ,sometimes.

She's a girl !
He initiated the talk ,started talking about here and there and ENUFF.She thought that he was so desperate to be a friend of her's and pat came the reply !

I am your senior and......STOP !

Poor Viks......what wrong did he do if he wanted to talk to her , have friendship with her,may be help her in someway....all pious thoughts.......he initiated ,he added,he talked...and did all possible things he could ...but,all went for a SIX !

Ah ! It Sux - such is life dearies...people ( GIRLS ) take you wrong here many times ! I never seem to understand -WHY ? What's the matter girls ?

If we(men) don't initiate, you get angry,if we don't talk, we get fired up,we dont scrap/poke/message you ,you delete us ....WHY poor "us" ??

Viks....asked for my "gyaan" .I was straight. If "H" is not interested then FAIR. Neither be you.

He got it right ,this time.A beautiful friendship which may have started was cut into pieces.

At the end - THEY DONT TALK NOW.ANYMORE."You never give 3 chances to anyone...then why "H" ,he said. Agreed bro.!

See this is what happens. Life is short and friendship is forever. The better you realise the cool you're.

Little did - "H" knew that Viks was already engaged to his..........I can't tell.....see she just lost a GEM. Poor girl !!

PS-Had some seniors from her batch who gave some bad reports about her to him."Panga galat le liya"-he said. This also added in the decision making.

See your batch backfires on you..........

VARANASI - THE CITY OF THUGS

2008-04-23T10:44:00.001+05:30

Many people would fume over the title.....I did.....But,this is a FACT.
Commonly known as Benares or Banaras and Kashi city lies where the Varuna and Assi rivers,in its north and south, respectively, flow into the river Ganga.

Came to the city for some official work..and the first impression what I got was - LOOT MACHA DO.

The main culprits of this "title" are the 'auto rickshaws and cycel rickshaws'. They charge what they feel like...they instantly recognise that you're an outsider....so LOOT LO.. People from the un"glamourised" parts of the country come here to work.But,they have actually degraded the city . They argue with you and yes they wont bow down that easily.WORST PART is you just can't travel without them.

The roads are all bloody red- HOW ? Because of the world famous "BANARSI PAAN" . People eat 24*7 ,spit and then again eat...the roads are the best places to do the honors.... And then there is traffic.....ONLY HORNS.......from all sides..no riwaaz of helmets.....stray dogs & cattles travel with people feet to feet. gosh ! its all crazy.

Now the good ones... must visit....the OLD HOLY KASHI TEMPLE and the new Vishwanath Temple at BHU ,Durga Temple ,Sankat Mochan,Buddha Shanti Stupa,BHU CAMPUS.......

Ghats.....a boat ride costs only a Rs.50 ...people or "MAJI'S" will charge you 350-500 may be 1000.....give them a tight fatka and then'll you'll enjoy the ride.....Ghats are unclean....all litter is thrown into the holy ganga....its better to see the ghats from a boat....than make a personal visit.
Must watch is the ganga aarti in the evening....really good !
You'll find more tourists then Hindu's :-(
Food its usual....
shopping - the famous Banarsi sarees and suits...made by Muslim weavers...really good !
The best places to stay in Varanasi ie. THE TAJ GANGES, THE RAMDA INN,HOTEL SURYA,HOTEL SHALIMAR,CLARKS, JHV MALL(McD is here),RADDISON, ALL IN THE POSH AREA CALLED AS VARANASI CANTT. THESE ARE BEST PLACES TO STAY AND BE SAFE.

Nights - Is it really dark outside..... ???

2008-04-23T10:29:00.003+05:30

Now this is for our aam junta.....Bole toh Public

Nights - RAAT...
I know.....many things stirke in and out of your mind....the second you here the word - NIGHT.

Aaj ki raat,night outs,raat ka nasha........and and......list goes on.

But,there is more to Nights just as there is another sky above the blue one.

In todays "Kalyug" thing have change ,so have the nights. It's lost its "original charm" and regained the "not so wanted" status. In India,things are always ahead.Be the minds,the thoughts and yes,the Nights !

A recent increase in the number of "dark"incidents have let many a think -
IS IT REALLY SAFE OUTSIDE YOUR HOME ?
According to me,DEPENDS. Depends on what safety you are really talking about ?

We can't have Police/armed guards for everyone.Even the ones who have are more in danger than the formers. So,it all comes back to YOUR ALERTNESS or in Indian term - vigilance !

A heavy word....huh....

Some recent occurrences in and around NCR and incidents almost all over India , have made the public think -WHAT DO WE DO ? Virtually-Nothing you can do....Practically ,THER ARE SOME.
People ,especially girls-->are more unfortunates . Well,there are "n" number of safety forethoughts doing the rounds.It all comes to you.
What is it that you think would beseem you the most ?

In general, I suggest -->
Please don't travel late nights in Delhi or anywhere else. IT'S NOT COOL,anymore now!

OK....but what about work/late night shifts/parties.....yes....things have changed.....A LOT.

Recently,after a small sojourn, I reached at 11:10 pm at Delhi Railway Station....metro was over....I had someone to pick me up.......:-)

BUT,what if I had to go alone ? Yes ! Men do get scared.After all humans have become the biggest threat to humanity.

A friend of mine working in Gurgaon has to go back to her place at Mayur Vihar.Everyday.Imagine how scared her family and friends would be !
It's just not safe out there.

Options left-

Bus sevice at 11 pm. NO.
AUTOS - PREPAID OR POST ONES - BOTH THE SAME..
Work Cabs - You know them better than ME.
Own transport - You can drive after a wearing day and be safe...great !!!

--I don't recommend late night journey ,unless you have someone with you.
--If you're out and have no option but,to come late....INFORM...your near ones ....the place where you're going ,friends etc....
--Keep your mobiles charges....more, keep spare batteries
DON'T SEND SMS-->CALL
--Learn martial arts .Tough. :-)
--Peppermint sprays.Handle it carefully.

--If you're driving alone,make sure ,you dont stop at anything but,your destination.

--NO LIFTS. NO WINDOWS DOWN.NO UNLOCKED DOORS. NO GETTING INTO ARGUMENTS. LEARN YOUR ROUTES.

[YES ,I AGREE IT'S GOOD TO HELP PEOPLE ,BUT RAAT KE 1 BAJE IT'S BETTER TO HELP YOURSELF]

--ALWAYS remember the NUMBERS of your nearest police stations /PCR.

I believe in destiny ,so try your best......Baaki........!!

BE CAREFUL WHILE DRIVING. STAY SAFE.

PS- Doing all the above things won't ensure your 100% safety.But,yes,after reading this,it would let you act in a more "watchful" way the next time you're OUT @ NIGHT.

Return Journey !

2008-04-23T10:16:00.001+05:30

This was the best part of the trip !
SWARNA SHATABDI -what better way to come to DELHI from Jalandhar than a Shatabdi.
It leaves Jalandhar at 6:05 pm....and reaches Delhi at 11:00 pm.

I got a WS (window seat)yyyiippeee....
But,a short lived one.....now there are two seating types in the train -
row 1 - 2 seats PASSAGE 3 seats
I was in the 3 seats one WS.
When I saw,there was a family of three already sitting down...parents and a "cute"daughter'...thought they had gone but,I also was not safe....cute baby...

The little girl told me "aap wahan beth jao....plz.....I love this seat.....and what did I say....WHEREZ YOUR SEAT,BABE !

It was just next in the 2 one's and yes a WS.
I was more than happy to make her happy!
~was waiting that who was to sit with me in the side seat ~

WAIT !!

Jumpin was served , mineral water,a hot samosa and a sweet from Amritsar's famous NOVELTY SWEETS - old memories sweetly comes by........... yummmy

We reached Ludhiana....old memories,again :-(

and a girl...may be a lady came and sat with me :-) She was wearing this corporate attire and yes- a DELL LAPTOP + N73 WHAT MORE !??
She sweetly said "Hello...I am Avantika.....Would you mind if I use the plug-point given. Now all Shatabdi's have a plug point in the seat passage near WS.So,I said sure.
She plugged her laptop....and started working...:-( :-(
After sometime...she said...ok now can you put the mobile on charging...Aur koi Hukum .

Now it was my turn...after sharing the usual nuts-buts I asked her to give me some gyaan on DELL LAPTOPS AND N73....and she said the full review....It was a good talk....

Soup was served......too salty......and then the dinner.....She was coming from Amritsar after attending a wedding.... OF HER CLOSE ONES .....

bus...aur kya.....she said she has a daughter of 6 months.. Rhea..and I said give her a hug from my side.... :-) Nice journey...the train was fast

The train was on time ...but,it was really late.........post 11 pm and delhi roads..........