Its already 15 days since ajja (grandpa) passed away and I am still not completely convinced its true.
Its so hard to accept these facts when you are miles away.
The reality will hit hard when the next time
* I face ajji (grandma)
* I will see empty ajja's house
* I will NOT see ajja at the gate of his house (the house we spent many many summer vacations) waiting for us
* I will NOT see ajja when everyone else including my dad, uncles and cousins will be watching a cricket match.
* I will NOT give those raisin packets to anyone
* I will NOT hear him call out my name ever so fondly asking me to "Make enough Money and come back home".
Ajja, No matter where I live,
everytime I see raisin packets, I will think of you.
For every penny saved, I will remember you
For every cricket match watched your comments and presence will be missed
everytime I narrate a story to my daughter, you will be my inspiration
You were truly the best ajja !!!
Friday, September 26, 2008
Friday, September 19, 2008
Sep 11 - Fateful day
Sep 12 was going to be a very special day ... amma and I had been planning for this day for almost 3 months now. We had reviewed, re-reviewed and reviewed some more the Hindu calendar ("Panchanga") before narrowing this day. This day was chosen for my sister's first baby shower. So excited was my mother about this event, that she enthusiastically volunteered to cook for the expected 80 odd guests. Sheer pleasure of cooking for my sister's baby and to save sister / BIL some bucks was her reasoning for volunteering.
We had made several lists ... one for the menu, one for grocery, one for fruits, one for items to be carried to the rental hall, one for items to be carried from my house to sister's place, guests list, decorative items list, gifts list (gifts she has brought from India to my sister and her baby).
Everything seem to go as expected ... we bought the grocery / veggies on wednesday. Thursday, sep 11th, amma got up early, finished her daily chores by 9:00am. I grated / cut the veggies with the food processor. By 12:00 noon, Carrot Halwa, Mysore Pak (sweet), Hunase gojju (for Puliyogare) was ready. We soon packed stuff and shifted them to the car. The plan was to go to sister's place and complete the rest stuff there.... afterall she wanted to be part of all the excitement.
And so we reached sister's place around 1:30pm. After initial chat, and some rest we got to business again. Now all three (mom, sister and me) were packing the return gift bags. The "Puri Unde" for the event was ordered from India. We packed Puri Unde,(sweet) Blouse piece, Silver item (again from India), "Hurgalu" (spiced lentils). We were almost done with our packing ... perhaps there were 3-4 more packets to be done when the phone rang. I picked the phone ... caller id said "Out of Area" ... my sister asked me to ignore it dismissing it as a junk call. Something told me it wasn't a junk call ... but I kept quiet. Within a minute or so my mobile rang.
It was from my hubby .... he asked "Aren't you home?" I got rather irritated ... afterall I had told him, I was coming to sister's place ... how could he forget that? He continued "Got a call from India ... your ajja (grandpa) is sick" he said. My heart sank ... I looked at the clock ... it showed 4:20pm (which is 4:50am India time). My heart sank even more .... no one would call from India at such odd hours if it is not a serious problem. I shared the news with amma and sister. We immediately called daddy's cell phone. Daddy mentioned that my ajja's (amma's dad) health condition was serious and that he had been admitted to Apollo hospital. I refused to believe what I was listening to. Daddy handed over the phone to one of my uncles. Uncle V said "Ajja's condition is deteriorating by the second. He is counting is last few breadths". Now tears were flowing uncontrolably. We talked to my other uncle M, who was so shaken by the sudden turn of events around him. After talking to him for few minutes, we disconnected the call. Now amma, sister and me were in a state of extreme shock. Only 4 days back had we spoken to ajja and ajji. They were just healthy then. Just then the phone rang. Cousin S had called and she mentioned that ajja had passed away.
All of us were just going mad .... we didn't know what to do. My sister who is 8 months pregnant now sank on the sofa and started crying so badly that I really didn't know what I should be doing. We tried to calm her, forced her to take a couple of deep breaths, drink some water.(her BP seem to raise). The entire evening was spent on phone calls to friends and family. For the first time in many years, I felt helpless. I was reminded of the distance separating India and US every second. My mother who had spent all her life staying in the same city as my grandparents felt miserable not being there by grandpa's bedside at this time.
Without much debate, we cancelled the next day's baby shower.
The day which started on such a high note ended at a very very dull note.
Miss you ajja .... words just cannot express how I feel at this time.
We had made several lists ... one for the menu, one for grocery, one for fruits, one for items to be carried to the rental hall, one for items to be carried from my house to sister's place, guests list, decorative items list, gifts list (gifts she has brought from India to my sister and her baby).
Everything seem to go as expected ... we bought the grocery / veggies on wednesday. Thursday, sep 11th, amma got up early, finished her daily chores by 9:00am. I grated / cut the veggies with the food processor. By 12:00 noon, Carrot Halwa, Mysore Pak (sweet), Hunase gojju (for Puliyogare) was ready. We soon packed stuff and shifted them to the car. The plan was to go to sister's place and complete the rest stuff there.... afterall she wanted to be part of all the excitement.
And so we reached sister's place around 1:30pm. After initial chat, and some rest we got to business again. Now all three (mom, sister and me) were packing the return gift bags. The "Puri Unde" for the event was ordered from India. We packed Puri Unde,(sweet) Blouse piece, Silver item (again from India), "Hurgalu" (spiced lentils). We were almost done with our packing ... perhaps there were 3-4 more packets to be done when the phone rang. I picked the phone ... caller id said "Out of Area" ... my sister asked me to ignore it dismissing it as a junk call. Something told me it wasn't a junk call ... but I kept quiet. Within a minute or so my mobile rang.
It was from my hubby .... he asked "Aren't you home?" I got rather irritated ... afterall I had told him, I was coming to sister's place ... how could he forget that? He continued "Got a call from India ... your ajja (grandpa) is sick" he said. My heart sank ... I looked at the clock ... it showed 4:20pm (which is 4:50am India time). My heart sank even more .... no one would call from India at such odd hours if it is not a serious problem. I shared the news with amma and sister. We immediately called daddy's cell phone. Daddy mentioned that my ajja's (amma's dad) health condition was serious and that he had been admitted to Apollo hospital. I refused to believe what I was listening to. Daddy handed over the phone to one of my uncles. Uncle V said "Ajja's condition is deteriorating by the second. He is counting is last few breadths". Now tears were flowing uncontrolably. We talked to my other uncle M, who was so shaken by the sudden turn of events around him. After talking to him for few minutes, we disconnected the call. Now amma, sister and me were in a state of extreme shock. Only 4 days back had we spoken to ajja and ajji. They were just healthy then. Just then the phone rang. Cousin S had called and she mentioned that ajja had passed away.
All of us were just going mad .... we didn't know what to do. My sister who is 8 months pregnant now sank on the sofa and started crying so badly that I really didn't know what I should be doing. We tried to calm her, forced her to take a couple of deep breaths, drink some water.(her BP seem to raise). The entire evening was spent on phone calls to friends and family. For the first time in many years, I felt helpless. I was reminded of the distance separating India and US every second. My mother who had spent all her life staying in the same city as my grandparents felt miserable not being there by grandpa's bedside at this time.
Without much debate, we cancelled the next day's baby shower.
The day which started on such a high note ended at a very very dull note.
Miss you ajja .... words just cannot express how I feel at this time.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Ganesha Chaturthi
This year Ganesha Chaturthi was celebrated with so much enthusiam. This inspite of us coming back from our vacation to Los Angeles and San Diego just the previous day. Thanks to my mother, everything was so well done ... it didn't seem like we had just arrived from our summer vacation.
The reason for this post, to detail out the menu
Gowri Habba:
* Saaru
* Anna
* Bisi Bele Bhath
* Raitha
* Carrot Palya
* Mosaranna
* Bele Obbattu
Ganesha Habba
* Gasa Gase Payasa
* Saaru
* Beans Palya
* Karida Kadubu
* Kola Katte
* Chatni
* Hagala Kayi Gojju
* Mosaranna
Our house Charpu : Ganesha Mangalarthi was on 5th 2008
* Chikki
* Cocoa Benne Biscuit
* Huliyavalakki
* Fruit Salad served at home for guests
* Mixture (Karida Avalakki)
* Banana
* Orange
Sister's house Charpu:
* Chakkali
* Huliyavalakki
* Shalya Anna
* Ribbon Pakoda
* Gasa Gase payasa (served at home for the guests)
* Rave Laddu
* Banana
* Orange
Thank you Amma ... I knew you were totally exhausted at the end of the week ... but your efforts are truly appreciated.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Divine Concert
Last Sunday Sep 7th 2008, I had the lucky opportunity of attending the divine concert of Violin Maestro Duo Mysore Nagaraj and Dr. Mysore Manjunath. The vidwans entertained the crowd with kritis after kritis. Both their individual styles was unique... Vidwan Nagaraj's music was extremely melodious while Dr. Manjunath's music was filled with calculated swaras.
The concert started off with Varna in Natakuranji. This was followed by kritis in Shanmukhapriya, ShankaraBharana, Raagamaalika, Suddha Dhanyasi to name a few and the concert concluded with Tillana in Hamsanandi. While all the kritis were simply superb, the Raagamaalika was just out of this world. I was so spellbound that it just brought tears of joy in me. All in all it was an out of the world experience for me.
It had been almost 8 years since I attended a live concert. I must say sunday's experience was totally humbling.
The concert started off with Varna in Natakuranji. This was followed by kritis in Shanmukhapriya, ShankaraBharana, Raagamaalika, Suddha Dhanyasi to name a few and the concert concluded with Tillana in Hamsanandi. While all the kritis were simply superb, the Raagamaalika was just out of this world. I was so spellbound that it just brought tears of joy in me. All in all it was an out of the world experience for me.
It had been almost 8 years since I attended a live concert. I must say sunday's experience was totally humbling.
Monday, July 07, 2008
Federer Lost - Wimbeldon 98
Watched Wimbeldon after a long long time. What a match it was ... used to be a great fan of Tennis ... it is amazing that last Tennis match I watched was some 4 yrs back.
Anyway, yesterday's match was treat to Tennis lovers. A great game of determination between world current best players - Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. Once Nadal won the first two sets 6-4, 6-4 I almost thought the Championship would end in 3 sets. I was to be proved wrong. Federer won the next 2 sets 7-6,7-6 ( in the fourth set he fought back championship points couple of times in the tie break). Nadal won the fifth set in great style 9-7. This ended 5 year straight winning record for Federer.
Though my loyalties are still with Steffi and Sampras, it was great fun to watch a great match. I hope to I start following the game religiously ...lets see.
Anyway, yesterday's match was treat to Tennis lovers. A great game of determination between world current best players - Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal. Once Nadal won the first two sets 6-4, 6-4 I almost thought the Championship would end in 3 sets. I was to be proved wrong. Federer won the next 2 sets 7-6,7-6 ( in the fourth set he fought back championship points couple of times in the tie break). Nadal won the fifth set in great style 9-7. This ended 5 year straight winning record for Federer.
Though my loyalties are still with Steffi and Sampras, it was great fun to watch a great match. I hope to I start following the game religiously ...lets see.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Father's Day
I had done a post on my true hero,my dad few months back. Here is the link.
I still maintain that my dad is a wonderful person and great source of inspiration to me. Happy Father's day Daddy !!
All the while I thought my dad is the greatest, little did I know that I had been living with another great father for sometime now. I am refering to my dear husband here. He has proved time and again to be an excellent father. My kids adore their adore to the core. He never runs out of patience involving our kids. I wish I could write about everything he does for our kids ... but time being a constraint, let me just say "Happy Father's day !!"
I still maintain that my dad is a wonderful person and great source of inspiration to me. Happy Father's day Daddy !!
All the while I thought my dad is the greatest, little did I know that I had been living with another great father for sometime now. I am refering to my dear husband here. He has proved time and again to be an excellent father. My kids adore their adore to the core. He never runs out of patience involving our kids. I wish I could write about everything he does for our kids ... but time being a constraint, let me just say "Happy Father's day !!"
Monday, September 24, 2007
Congratulations India !
India beat Pakistan to lift the first 20 overs limited Cricket world cup !
What a proud moment for the Indian Cricket team !
Congratulations India for a well deserved victory.
Infact the last few matches that India played have been some of the best cricketing victories.
It all started with the match against England, followed by a fantastic win against South Africa (completely eliminating them from the world cup) and then the much talked about victory over Australia.
India truly deserved to lift the world cup! Congratulations Team India !
Chak De India !!
What a proud moment for the Indian Cricket team !
Congratulations India for a well deserved victory.
Infact the last few matches that India played have been some of the best cricketing victories.
It all started with the match against England, followed by a fantastic win against South Africa (completely eliminating them from the world cup) and then the much talked about victory over Australia.
India truly deserved to lift the world cup! Congratulations Team India !
Chak De India !!
Monday, August 13, 2007
Chak De India
Last evening, hubby and I went out to the theatre to watch this movie after almost 4 years. Thanks to my family who offered to take care of my little one.
We both thoroughly enjoyed the movie … there were no surprises … the story was predictable all the way. But what made it interesting was its execution ... err… I mean the narration, crisp editing and excellent acting.
There was no mandatory song / dance routine … the songs played in the background and were quite enjoyable and added to the mood.
The storyline is very simple … its about a disgraced hockey player guiding the Indian women’s hockey team from ground zero to World championship. I knew that SRK played a disgraced hockey player … I knew he would lead the women’s hockey team to victory … what made the movie interesting was the journey taken along.
The so called “Non actresses” did not come across as actresses at all … err … I mean, they came across as relatable likable characters and never once I realized they were acting. Well, that should say quite some thing about their performance. And SRK … well, this was the second movie, in which I saw an actor in him !! Wow … what a performance… Even without being a remote fan of SRK, I could not help but appreciate his performance in this movie. Its appropriate to his age (he should stop running behind heroines mouthing silly dialogues) …. He takes up a risk with this role, clearly not going with his image and delivers a punched performance. I couldn’t imagine a better actor for this role.
For anyone, liking pure family entertainment, with no frills … I would recommend this movie any day! It just doesn’t hurt if you are a sports enthusiast … more so, if you have loved “Hockey” !!!
We both thoroughly enjoyed the movie … there were no surprises … the story was predictable all the way. But what made it interesting was its execution ... err… I mean the narration, crisp editing and excellent acting.
There was no mandatory song / dance routine … the songs played in the background and were quite enjoyable and added to the mood.
The storyline is very simple … its about a disgraced hockey player guiding the Indian women’s hockey team from ground zero to World championship. I knew that SRK played a disgraced hockey player … I knew he would lead the women’s hockey team to victory … what made the movie interesting was the journey taken along.
The so called “Non actresses” did not come across as actresses at all … err … I mean, they came across as relatable likable characters and never once I realized they were acting. Well, that should say quite some thing about their performance. And SRK … well, this was the second movie, in which I saw an actor in him !! Wow … what a performance… Even without being a remote fan of SRK, I could not help but appreciate his performance in this movie. Its appropriate to his age (he should stop running behind heroines mouthing silly dialogues) …. He takes up a risk with this role, clearly not going with his image and delivers a punched performance. I couldn’t imagine a better actor for this role.
For anyone, liking pure family entertainment, with no frills … I would recommend this movie any day! It just doesn’t hurt if you are a sports enthusiast … more so, if you have loved “Hockey” !!!
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Office rambling - 1
As much as I have been reading other people’s blogs, I am not writing as much.
The reason being the mental block … perhaps my creativity on what I should blog is gone for a toss amidst all the work pressure.
There are countless occasions when I have read someone’s blog and said I could write my take on this in my blog .. but that rarely has happened.
This saddens me … I need to write … and I know I am a happier person when I write … just that I am not prioritizing blogging !
Today my work began on a high note … there was this long pending task, which was not taken up by anyone until I volunteered to steer it.
This happened about 15 days back. I spent about 2-3 days just analyzing the information gathered thus far and wondered how such a critical module had taken a backseat.
To my luck, I was able to get time and commitment from the required folks to move ahead on this piece and we achieved quite some progress over the last week.
Coming back to my high spirits this morning … the client, higher management within my company have sent out appreciation emails on the tasks accomplished last week.
It sure feels good to be appreciated !!
The reason being the mental block … perhaps my creativity on what I should blog is gone for a toss amidst all the work pressure.
There are countless occasions when I have read someone’s blog and said I could write my take on this in my blog .. but that rarely has happened.
This saddens me … I need to write … and I know I am a happier person when I write … just that I am not prioritizing blogging !
Today my work began on a high note … there was this long pending task, which was not taken up by anyone until I volunteered to steer it.
This happened about 15 days back. I spent about 2-3 days just analyzing the information gathered thus far and wondered how such a critical module had taken a backseat.
To my luck, I was able to get time and commitment from the required folks to move ahead on this piece and we achieved quite some progress over the last week.
Coming back to my high spirits this morning … the client, higher management within my company have sent out appreciation emails on the tasks accomplished last week.
It sure feels good to be appreciated !!
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Treasure hunt
My daughter's 3 rd birthday party was a huge success.
One of the games played with the kids (and of course parents) was treasure hunt.
Below were the clues for the hidden treasures:
CLUE 1:
Follow this clue to kids favourite space
Where the kids go higher and higher in this place
Go to this place to see the "Bling"
Come on .. its right here under the ________
CLUE 2:
There is no need to frown
The next clue is under a place you sit down
Track it down, but there is no Label
Thats' right, the treasure is in under the __________
CLUE 3:
You're almost there! Don't admit defeat!
Now, make your way to the street!
This clue is sure a ticket
Spill out the sand, inside the ________
CLUE 4:
All right ! Way to go and oh Boy !
Now this clue is one of kids favourite toy !
Don't run to hard, coz you may fall
The treasure is near the soccer ________
CLUE 5:
To find this clue you must look hard around !
Only then will the treasure be found !
Try harder... you see nothing comes for free
Green grass and its me, close to the _________
CLUE 6:
Observe around for the party theme
That way your thoughts will stream
Yes! You will fine me, come on go
Behind the seven colors of the ___________
As you may have guessed, it was a themed party ... can you guess the theme ?
The kids and their parents sure had loads of fun !
One of the games played with the kids (and of course parents) was treasure hunt.
Below were the clues for the hidden treasures:
CLUE 1:
Follow this clue to kids favourite space
Where the kids go higher and higher in this place
Go to this place to see the "Bling"
Come on .. its right here under the ________
CLUE 2:
There is no need to frown
The next clue is under a place you sit down
Track it down, but there is no Label
Thats' right, the treasure is in under the __________
CLUE 3:
You're almost there! Don't admit defeat!
Now, make your way to the street!
This clue is sure a ticket
Spill out the sand, inside the ________
CLUE 4:
All right ! Way to go and oh Boy !
Now this clue is one of kids favourite toy !
Don't run to hard, coz you may fall
The treasure is near the soccer ________
CLUE 5:
To find this clue you must look hard around !
Only then will the treasure be found !
Try harder... you see nothing comes for free
Green grass and its me, close to the _________
CLUE 6:
Observe around for the party theme
That way your thoughts will stream
Yes! You will fine me, come on go
Behind the seven colors of the ___________
As you may have guessed, it was a themed party ... can you guess the theme ?
The kids and their parents sure had loads of fun !
Thursday, June 14, 2007
My true Hero
A little girl hurt her thumb, when she hit against the wall. Her mom ran to her, consoled her and tried to divert her attention to various other things around the house. There was no sore , or blood on the thumb. The girl held her thumb upright the whole day and in the evening her dad came. The magic rub of the thumb by her dad, followed with affectionate words seem to make a differnce. The pain on the thumb was soon forgotten. (wonder if there was any pain at all in the first place)
The little girl soon started school. She did quite well academically. She was enrolled in a school where the first langauage was Hindi. Her parents felt that Hindi Prachar sabha exams would help her with the new language. Her dad donned the role of a hindi teacher. The language was new to him as well ... but he never once showed his nervousness to the little girl. Before the girl turned 7, she had passed her "Maadhyama exmas" ... thanks to her dad. She was now comfortable enough to have a good conversation in Hindi. Along with her curriculum, the school encouraged all their kids to participate in Co-curricular activities. While the mom took the role of Arts / Music / drawing teacher, her dad took it upon himself to encourage his daughter to participate in Essay writing /monoacting / recitation / debate etc. Whether a prize was won or not, their encouragement did not stop. Of course, they tried to encourage the girl in sports as well ... but the girl did not show much on interest in that area. Soon, the girl graduated to Middle school. Her dad helped out in every possible way in her science projects and debate competitions. He was careful in his involvement ... he never once spoon fed. He always encouraged the girl to think out of the box. High school and college saw the girl take regular mathematics and physics lessons from her dad. She now discussed most subjects under the sun be it cricket matches or politics or a problem in Integratiom, or soaring petrol rates and its implication to common man ... she discussed everything with her dad. Soon she earned her Bachelors degree and found a good job in a different city. Her dad accompanied her first day to the office. After ensuring that his daughter's needs in the new city was met, the dad returned back to his hometown.
Then one fine day, the girl got married ... just a couple of days after the wedding, the girl had to locate to a different country to join her husband. The dad gave his most precious possession , his daughter away to this gentleman, her husband with a heavy heart. The girl started living in a differnt country ... her interactions with her dad / mom was not as much as it once used to be. But she always involved them in her world... though remotely. That girl is none other than me and today, I have a little daughter and am enjoying a whole new experience that life has to offer.
But dad, I cannot say enough things about you ...
I may not have been the best daughter one could have, but you still were there for me, when I needed you.
I may not have fulfilled your dreams by becoming an IAS officer, but you have never once complained about my choice of profession.
I may not have done a lot more things that you I could do for you ... but you never once expected anything from me.
Thank you daddy ... thank you for everything. You are truly a gem of a person .... I may have never said this to you ... but "You are my true Hero" ... my most admired person in whole entire world.
HAPPY FATHER"S DAY !
The little girl soon started school. She did quite well academically. She was enrolled in a school where the first langauage was Hindi. Her parents felt that Hindi Prachar sabha exams would help her with the new language. Her dad donned the role of a hindi teacher. The language was new to him as well ... but he never once showed his nervousness to the little girl. Before the girl turned 7, she had passed her "Maadhyama exmas" ... thanks to her dad. She was now comfortable enough to have a good conversation in Hindi. Along with her curriculum, the school encouraged all their kids to participate in Co-curricular activities. While the mom took the role of Arts / Music / drawing teacher, her dad took it upon himself to encourage his daughter to participate in Essay writing /monoacting / recitation / debate etc. Whether a prize was won or not, their encouragement did not stop. Of course, they tried to encourage the girl in sports as well ... but the girl did not show much on interest in that area. Soon, the girl graduated to Middle school. Her dad helped out in every possible way in her science projects and debate competitions. He was careful in his involvement ... he never once spoon fed. He always encouraged the girl to think out of the box. High school and college saw the girl take regular mathematics and physics lessons from her dad. She now discussed most subjects under the sun be it cricket matches or politics or a problem in Integratiom, or soaring petrol rates and its implication to common man ... she discussed everything with her dad. Soon she earned her Bachelors degree and found a good job in a different city. Her dad accompanied her first day to the office. After ensuring that his daughter's needs in the new city was met, the dad returned back to his hometown.
Then one fine day, the girl got married ... just a couple of days after the wedding, the girl had to locate to a different country to join her husband. The dad gave his most precious possession , his daughter away to this gentleman, her husband with a heavy heart. The girl started living in a differnt country ... her interactions with her dad / mom was not as much as it once used to be. But she always involved them in her world... though remotely. That girl is none other than me and today, I have a little daughter and am enjoying a whole new experience that life has to offer.
But dad, I cannot say enough things about you ...
I may not have been the best daughter one could have, but you still were there for me, when I needed you.
I may not have fulfilled your dreams by becoming an IAS officer, but you have never once complained about my choice of profession.
I may not have done a lot more things that you I could do for you ... but you never once expected anything from me.
Thank you daddy ... thank you for everything. You are truly a gem of a person .... I may have never said this to you ... but "You are my true Hero" ... my most admired person in whole entire world.
HAPPY FATHER"S DAY !
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Downtown - Muni ride
Downtown offers a unique experience everytime you visit it. So far, I have never been let down ...
I was returning from office yesterday. The Muni station that I board is not one of the popular stations. Its an underground station and not many people board there. Muni arrived within couple of mins of me reaching the station. I paid for the ticket in the first car and looked around. There was a young noisy crowd in the first car. After a hectic day at work, I didn't want to be admist a noisy crowd ... so moved to the last car. I was pleasantly surprised to see my colleague from work in the same car. The next station approached and few interesting people boarded the muni. I keenly observed these people, while trying to have a conversation with my colleague. One of the person from the "Interesting crowd" ... with tattoo all over his arms, pulled something from his pocket ... it appeared like tobacco (or was it drugs ???) ... he rubbed it with his hands and started sniffing it. I could sense he was not satisfied just sniffing it. I have never seen anyone doing drugs in front of me ... so I counted this as my opportunity. Just then my colleague asked me something about my work experience .... I mumbled something and looked at this tattooed person ... alas. ... he was gone ... I had lost my opportunity :(
While I was observing this guy, I had not failed to notice another drunk guy moving from one end of the train. Then there was a huge huge guy (who occupied double seats) having some talk about a ballpark game with another equally enthusiastic / huge guy. In the mad rush, another well built lady weirdly dressed stood beside me enjoying music on her ipod (I cannot begin to describe her dressing sense)
I was returning from office yesterday. The Muni station that I board is not one of the popular stations. Its an underground station and not many people board there. Muni arrived within couple of mins of me reaching the station. I paid for the ticket in the first car and looked around. There was a young noisy crowd in the first car. After a hectic day at work, I didn't want to be admist a noisy crowd ... so moved to the last car. I was pleasantly surprised to see my colleague from work in the same car. The next station approached and few interesting people boarded the muni. I keenly observed these people, while trying to have a conversation with my colleague. One of the person from the "Interesting crowd" ... with tattoo all over his arms, pulled something from his pocket ... it appeared like tobacco (or was it drugs ???) ... he rubbed it with his hands and started sniffing it. I could sense he was not satisfied just sniffing it. I have never seen anyone doing drugs in front of me ... so I counted this as my opportunity. Just then my colleague asked me something about my work experience .... I mumbled something and looked at this tattooed person ... alas. ... he was gone ... I had lost my opportunity :(
While I was observing this guy, I had not failed to notice another drunk guy moving from one end of the train. Then there was a huge huge guy (who occupied double seats) having some talk about a ballpark game with another equally enthusiastic / huge guy. In the mad rush, another well built lady weirdly dressed stood beside me enjoying music on her ipod (I cannot begin to describe her dressing sense)
As I observed these people ... I almost missed my station. Thankfully I had my colleague to remind me ... so that didn't happen.
Downtown muni rides sure is eventful most days :)
Friday, June 08, 2007
New project - 1st week
The new project is very interesting ... its a re-engineering project. I get to learn a new Business and a new technology. Well the business and technology are old by themselves... new to me.
In that sense its an exciting project. But couple of cribs:
12hrs of my day is gone in meetings ... yes, got that right. My ear hurts and my head stops functioning after a while. And my worst problem, my home phone battery does not last as long and I am forced to use personal cell minutes ... boo boo ....
The people on-board the project have been working in the team for the past 6-8 months ... but not much progress has been made. Most of the knowledge these folks have obtained is not documented. There is no time for Knowledge transfer session given the strict timelines drawn.
OK ... let me stop here ... there are many more positives and negatives about the project though. Its just been one week and I can already come up with a list ... amazing uh ? Thanks to my parents, a lot of things gets done at home. The only thing I do in my free time is run around my little daughter and have fun with her.
How would I manage if my parents were not here with me at this time ?? I cannot begin to imagine the situation ....
In that sense its an exciting project. But couple of cribs:
12hrs of my day is gone in meetings ... yes, got that right. My ear hurts and my head stops functioning after a while. And my worst problem, my home phone battery does not last as long and I am forced to use personal cell minutes ... boo boo ....
The people on-board the project have been working in the team for the past 6-8 months ... but not much progress has been made. Most of the knowledge these folks have obtained is not documented. There is no time for Knowledge transfer session given the strict timelines drawn.
OK ... let me stop here ... there are many more positives and negatives about the project though. Its just been one week and I can already come up with a list ... amazing uh ? Thanks to my parents, a lot of things gets done at home. The only thing I do in my free time is run around my little daughter and have fun with her.
How would I manage if my parents were not here with me at this time ?? I cannot begin to imagine the situation ....
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
First day at work - new learnings
I began working on my new assignment from this monday. I had a good sleep sunday night ... surprisingly did not have any jitters starting on the new project. Got addressed at the right time and headed to the Caltrain station to catch the 7:13am train. The parking fee has been hiked since the last time I was there ... anyways, got my ticket and boarded the train. The ticket validator at the station was not functioning, so, as soon as I boarded and had found a comfortable seating ... I began to look for the Conductor. You see, being cited for ticket violation is no fun :(
Anyways, once I got my ticket endorsed my the conductor, I caught up on more sleep. The train ride to the downtown was more or less uneventful. I hopped on the Muni from the caltrain depot. Now, I wasn't sure which station I had to get off. Well, I had a vague idea of the downtown, but wasn't sure. With my best guess, I got off at the station which seemed closest to my office building. It was a subway station and I got back to the streets. The looked across the street and noted the office building number was close to my destination address. OK.. not a bad choice of station to get off I appreciated and continued walking in the direction of my office building. After walking a couple of blocks I realised I had missed my office building and so headed back in the direction I started off. I located a tall building from a distance and since I was going to the 22nd floor, I decided that the tall building was more than likely going to be my office and yep I was right. To my luck, the person who would escort me inside the building (secured building you see) was right behind me. Though we had not met before, somehow we recognised each other and he helped me get to my floor. He brought me a huge package which contained my laptop ... and all he had to say was he will be busy in meeting for the next 3 hrs. Great ... so what was I going to do now ??? I braved the odds and assembled the ever confusing parts of the laptop ... within about 20 - 25 mins, I was all set and connected to the office network successfully. I was all set for the day's work.
The entire day just went by in meetings and discussion ... soon it was time to leave.
I confidentantly headed to the muni station ... the trains were coming at regular intervals and I hopped to the muni within minutes. The muni headed through the tunnel and within a few secs the outside sunlight hit the muni (the sun sets at around 8:30pm these days) Something seemed wrong ... didn't the muni spend more time in subway in my morning ride?? Oh well ... everything was clear in mins ... in my anxiety I had jumped on to the muni heading the opposite direction. The next station never seem to show up ... how much more was I going away from my destination I wondered .... thankfully the next stop finally was made. I got off immediately only to be greeted by muni trains from all directions. (it was 5 roads junction) Welcome to downtown chaos I thought !!! There was no specific station there and the muni 's from all these directions had their own stations ... hmm well ... where would "MY" muni come ... I didn't know. I asked a lady in her 20's (looked educated to me) and she willingly spotted the right train for me and asked me to jump onto it. I thanked my stars for sending the train before I'd encounter one of those homeless vagabonds.
But there was another worry inside me... the Caltrain timings. I had barely 25mins on hand to make it to the train. With every inch closer to the Caltrain station, it appeared I had hopes to make it to the train. The last signal before the Caltrain station ensured there was a nail biting finish to this entire episode. The muni station is just across the Caltrain station. So I put on my best atheletic run from the muni station to the Caltrain station to make it to the train ... I almost felt a tear drop when the train left the platform right in front of my eyes ... anyone who travels by public transportation understands this feeling. It is a pathetic state of mind.
Before I could curse myself for choosing the wrong Muni, I noted that there was another Caltrain leaving in the next 10mins to my station ... and whats more it was a BABY BULLET with limited stops. This one would reach my destination sooner than the missed train. What more could I ask for, I gleed. "Ooper wala jab bhi deta hai to chappar phad ke deta hai"
Anyways, once I got my ticket endorsed my the conductor, I caught up on more sleep. The train ride to the downtown was more or less uneventful. I hopped on the Muni from the caltrain depot. Now, I wasn't sure which station I had to get off. Well, I had a vague idea of the downtown, but wasn't sure. With my best guess, I got off at the station which seemed closest to my office building. It was a subway station and I got back to the streets. The looked across the street and noted the office building number was close to my destination address. OK.. not a bad choice of station to get off I appreciated and continued walking in the direction of my office building. After walking a couple of blocks I realised I had missed my office building and so headed back in the direction I started off. I located a tall building from a distance and since I was going to the 22nd floor, I decided that the tall building was more than likely going to be my office and yep I was right. To my luck, the person who would escort me inside the building (secured building you see) was right behind me. Though we had not met before, somehow we recognised each other and he helped me get to my floor. He brought me a huge package which contained my laptop ... and all he had to say was he will be busy in meeting for the next 3 hrs. Great ... so what was I going to do now ??? I braved the odds and assembled the ever confusing parts of the laptop ... within about 20 - 25 mins, I was all set and connected to the office network successfully. I was all set for the day's work.
The entire day just went by in meetings and discussion ... soon it was time to leave.
I confidentantly headed to the muni station ... the trains were coming at regular intervals and I hopped to the muni within minutes. The muni headed through the tunnel and within a few secs the outside sunlight hit the muni (the sun sets at around 8:30pm these days) Something seemed wrong ... didn't the muni spend more time in subway in my morning ride?? Oh well ... everything was clear in mins ... in my anxiety I had jumped on to the muni heading the opposite direction. The next station never seem to show up ... how much more was I going away from my destination I wondered .... thankfully the next stop finally was made. I got off immediately only to be greeted by muni trains from all directions. (it was 5 roads junction) Welcome to downtown chaos I thought !!! There was no specific station there and the muni 's from all these directions had their own stations ... hmm well ... where would "MY" muni come ... I didn't know. I asked a lady in her 20's (looked educated to me) and she willingly spotted the right train for me and asked me to jump onto it. I thanked my stars for sending the train before I'd encounter one of those homeless vagabonds.
But there was another worry inside me... the Caltrain timings. I had barely 25mins on hand to make it to the train. With every inch closer to the Caltrain station, it appeared I had hopes to make it to the train. The last signal before the Caltrain station ensured there was a nail biting finish to this entire episode. The muni station is just across the Caltrain station. So I put on my best atheletic run from the muni station to the Caltrain station to make it to the train ... I almost felt a tear drop when the train left the platform right in front of my eyes ... anyone who travels by public transportation understands this feeling. It is a pathetic state of mind.
Before I could curse myself for choosing the wrong Muni, I noted that there was another Caltrain leaving in the next 10mins to my station ... and whats more it was a BABY BULLET with limited stops. This one would reach my destination sooner than the missed train. What more could I ask for, I gleed. "Ooper wala jab bhi deta hai to chappar phad ke deta hai"
Saturday, June 02, 2007
Beginning of a new chapter
Friday was my last day at work ... no I didn't quit my job. I am moving to a different project.
My last day was very relaxing in the office (as expected). I went around thanking everyone for their co-operation during my stay in the project. note: I only went and thanked those from whom I had truly benefitted. My colleagues surprised me with a lunch out. We went to a nice Chinese Restaurant.
I have to write about my almost embarassing incident at the restaurant. Being a vegetarian, I had very limited choice in that particular place. I ordered for Seczhwan Eggplant (pardon my spelling) and steamed rice. Now, we were a group of 5 and I was the only vegetarian. Anyways, the soup was served ... it had a decent taste. I was looking forward to my order. The waitress served a huge platter of eggplant and rice. The food was inviting and I digged into it greedily. As soon as I put the food into my mouth I realised it was super super hot and I could see fumes from my mouth. If I was at home, I would have just cleared my mouth immediately. Here I was, in the company of office colleagues, I managed to control my tears ... held my napkin close to my mouth and gasped a few breaths. Thankfully everyone was busy discussing about this new application at work. For the next 300secs, I did not dare to touch the food.
After lunch, I offered to buy them all coffee. We chatted our way back to desk discussing about my next work location, technology I'd be working etc. The next 2 hours, I just sat there staring at the monitor trying hard to stop myself from drowsing. This is when I realised, it hard when you have loads of work to do ... but it is harder when you have no work to do.
As soon as the clock ticked 3:00pm, I got up and handed over my laptop, my badge and other office supplies. Bid my final good bye to my manager and walked out of the office building recollecting my experiences in the project. The drive home was uneventful.
I now look forward to my new project ... hoping to learn new things and enjoy my experience at my new work place.
My last day was very relaxing in the office (as expected). I went around thanking everyone for their co-operation during my stay in the project. note: I only went and thanked those from whom I had truly benefitted. My colleagues surprised me with a lunch out. We went to a nice Chinese Restaurant.
I have to write about my almost embarassing incident at the restaurant. Being a vegetarian, I had very limited choice in that particular place. I ordered for Seczhwan Eggplant (pardon my spelling) and steamed rice. Now, we were a group of 5 and I was the only vegetarian. Anyways, the soup was served ... it had a decent taste. I was looking forward to my order. The waitress served a huge platter of eggplant and rice. The food was inviting and I digged into it greedily. As soon as I put the food into my mouth I realised it was super super hot and I could see fumes from my mouth. If I was at home, I would have just cleared my mouth immediately. Here I was, in the company of office colleagues, I managed to control my tears ... held my napkin close to my mouth and gasped a few breaths. Thankfully everyone was busy discussing about this new application at work. For the next 300secs, I did not dare to touch the food.
After lunch, I offered to buy them all coffee. We chatted our way back to desk discussing about my next work location, technology I'd be working etc. The next 2 hours, I just sat there staring at the monitor trying hard to stop myself from drowsing. This is when I realised, it hard when you have loads of work to do ... but it is harder when you have no work to do.
As soon as the clock ticked 3:00pm, I got up and handed over my laptop, my badge and other office supplies. Bid my final good bye to my manager and walked out of the office building recollecting my experiences in the project. The drive home was uneventful.
I now look forward to my new project ... hoping to learn new things and enjoy my experience at my new work place.
Friday, June 01, 2007
Met Yamaraj* .. well almost ... and didn't even realise ....
This incident happened about 2 weeks back. Like I have mentioned in my previous post, I have never had respite from long commute to work. I have been so much used to it now that it feels part of my lifestyle.
Anyways, I was returning home after an eventful day at work. Little did I know that bigger events were in store for me. It was only 5 mins since I had driven from the office parking lot ... I had just entered the freeway. The traffic was moving at a nice speed and I was glad. Suddenly I heard a honk.** I looked at my speedometer ... it reflected 70mph and was satisfied. The posted speed limit is 65mph and the traffic was more or less going at 70mph speed. I ignored the honk and thought it was for a fellow driver. Just then I noticed a huge truck approaching me in the next lane. The truck driver had a horrified look and pointed his hands at something. I could make out that we was trying to convey some message to me. I just couldn't understand and had a quizzed look on my face. I then noticed that the car following the truck was that of a Cop. Oh ! I concluded, the truck driver was trying to alert me of the approaching cop so I could drive at the posted speed !!! What a gentleman ... I thought.
But the next moment, I said " Hey, but no body in the US does that ... why would anyone alert you of the cop especially being followed by one ????" .. All these thoughts came to mind in less than 5 secs. Something didn't seem right ... I realised that I was loosing the control of my car. I was in the left most lane ***. So I cut lanes and had almost made it to the right most lane and my car started wobbling crazily. Thankfully the pullover (emergency parking) was right beside me and I pulled over. I parked my car and causiously came out. To my horror, the left rear wheel had been torn to pieces. The truck driver's indication now made perfect sense to me.
I knew I had to call AAA ~. I had never dealt with them before and so wanted to consult my husband about the steps involved. So I hoped into the car. As luck would have it, my cell phone lay dead there ... and I hadn't carried the charger. I cursed myself and spotted the next exit in about a miles' distance. The last thing to happen in this situation was for me to forget my purse. Thankfully I had carried it along. (yes, there are times when I have forgotten my purse as well ... thankfully I have gotten well)
Anyways, I locked my car and started walking towards the exit ...not knowing where it would lead me to.Just when I had walked some 30 yards, a biker stopped and asked if he could take a look. He was a typical American male ... tall well built man, clean shaven, in his early 50's (perhaps) He was not riding a Harley Davidson ... a BMW bike ... I noted the memorised the number plate and accepted his offer. He took a look at the torn tyre and asked if I carried a spare tyre. I think I have one I mumbled not so confidently. He said, "Well, I can change it for you, if you like" he offered. With not much choice, I agreed. He also lent me his cell phone, in case I wanted to call anyone. I appreciated his kind gesture and tried to reach my husband. As expected he did not receive my call. (he doesn't answer calls from unrecognised numbers) I could hear the rush in my blood, when he didn't pick up the phone. While the good samaritan was replacing my tire... another fella in a sports car stopped. He was another 20 something male with tattoes, bandana ... the typical rock star look. He offered help, when the older guy politely refused. With not many handy tools, the older gentleman somehow managed to replace my tyre. He cautioned me to drive slowly and not make sharp turns. He pointed to the replaced tyre and said "This is almost like a toy tyre ...don't take your chances. Drive carefully... not beyond 40mph". I thanked him for his help .. he drove away on his bike with a smile.
I shared my experience with my husband and family later that evening. They were all thankful I had managed to reach home safe. One of my colleagues at work remarked "You are so little ... anything could have happened to you, You were driving at a good speed ... bikers are all not always nice ... you just got lucky !!"
Only then did it dawn on me that I was indeed lucky ... I had almost met Yamaraj .. what if my car just went completely out of control and I could never pull over ... what if another car speeding from behind just hit me when I was chaging lanes ... the consequences could have been fatal. I thanked my stars !
My little dictionary for the uninitiated:
* : Yamaraj: God of death
**: Honking is not common in the US ... one honks only when a fellow driver makes a mistake.
*** : Left most is the fastest lane
~ : American Automobile Association. When insured, they provide road side assistance for any problem with the automobile
Anyways, I was returning home after an eventful day at work. Little did I know that bigger events were in store for me. It was only 5 mins since I had driven from the office parking lot ... I had just entered the freeway. The traffic was moving at a nice speed and I was glad. Suddenly I heard a honk.** I looked at my speedometer ... it reflected 70mph and was satisfied. The posted speed limit is 65mph and the traffic was more or less going at 70mph speed. I ignored the honk and thought it was for a fellow driver. Just then I noticed a huge truck approaching me in the next lane. The truck driver had a horrified look and pointed his hands at something. I could make out that we was trying to convey some message to me. I just couldn't understand and had a quizzed look on my face. I then noticed that the car following the truck was that of a Cop. Oh ! I concluded, the truck driver was trying to alert me of the approaching cop so I could drive at the posted speed !!! What a gentleman ... I thought.
But the next moment, I said " Hey, but no body in the US does that ... why would anyone alert you of the cop especially being followed by one ????" .. All these thoughts came to mind in less than 5 secs. Something didn't seem right ... I realised that I was loosing the control of my car. I was in the left most lane ***. So I cut lanes and had almost made it to the right most lane and my car started wobbling crazily. Thankfully the pullover (emergency parking) was right beside me and I pulled over. I parked my car and causiously came out. To my horror, the left rear wheel had been torn to pieces. The truck driver's indication now made perfect sense to me.
I knew I had to call AAA ~. I had never dealt with them before and so wanted to consult my husband about the steps involved. So I hoped into the car. As luck would have it, my cell phone lay dead there ... and I hadn't carried the charger. I cursed myself and spotted the next exit in about a miles' distance. The last thing to happen in this situation was for me to forget my purse. Thankfully I had carried it along. (yes, there are times when I have forgotten my purse as well ... thankfully I have gotten well)
Anyways, I locked my car and started walking towards the exit ...not knowing where it would lead me to.Just when I had walked some 30 yards, a biker stopped and asked if he could take a look. He was a typical American male ... tall well built man, clean shaven, in his early 50's (perhaps) He was not riding a Harley Davidson ... a BMW bike ... I noted the memorised the number plate and accepted his offer. He took a look at the torn tyre and asked if I carried a spare tyre. I think I have one I mumbled not so confidently. He said, "Well, I can change it for you, if you like" he offered. With not much choice, I agreed. He also lent me his cell phone, in case I wanted to call anyone. I appreciated his kind gesture and tried to reach my husband. As expected he did not receive my call. (he doesn't answer calls from unrecognised numbers) I could hear the rush in my blood, when he didn't pick up the phone. While the good samaritan was replacing my tire... another fella in a sports car stopped. He was another 20 something male with tattoes, bandana ... the typical rock star look. He offered help, when the older guy politely refused. With not many handy tools, the older gentleman somehow managed to replace my tyre. He cautioned me to drive slowly and not make sharp turns. He pointed to the replaced tyre and said "This is almost like a toy tyre ...don't take your chances. Drive carefully... not beyond 40mph". I thanked him for his help .. he drove away on his bike with a smile.
I shared my experience with my husband and family later that evening. They were all thankful I had managed to reach home safe. One of my colleagues at work remarked "You are so little ... anything could have happened to you, You were driving at a good speed ... bikers are all not always nice ... you just got lucky !!"
Only then did it dawn on me that I was indeed lucky ... I had almost met Yamaraj .. what if my car just went completely out of control and I could never pull over ... what if another car speeding from behind just hit me when I was chaging lanes ... the consequences could have been fatal. I thanked my stars !
My little dictionary for the uninitiated:
* : Yamaraj: God of death
**: Honking is not common in the US ... one honks only when a fellow driver makes a mistake.
*** : Left most is the fastest lane
~ : American Automobile Association. When insured, they provide road side assistance for any problem with the automobile
Sunday, December 31, 2006
Friday, December 22, 2006
Shah Rukh Khan
Last evening, we introduced a new cartoon to my little one - "Jungle Book". I am glad she liked Ballu and is willing to see the video. Just a few months back, it Barney and only Barney. It was getting increasingly boring (for us ... she didn't mind) . We tried to introduce her to Angelina, Bob the builder, Wiggles ... with little luck. Dora was accepted without much effort and so were Thomas and his friends. Barney still occupied the Uno spot.
During my last visit to the library, I spotted "Lion King" and was reminded of my good old school days. We taken to the movie "Lion King" one of those days... the entire theatre was booked for just our school kids and we had thoroughly enjoyed our day out. I just wanted to see the movie again and brought copy the DVD. When the movie was played the first time, my little one watched it with keen interest and insisted on hearing the story from us. Soon, she mastered the story and especially fascinated by "Hakuna Matada" song.
Last week, we borrowed the jungle book video from the library. She seemed to like the movie when we played it the first time. The next day, when it was her TV time, she came to me and said, I want to see "Shah rukh Khan" ... I could not believe my ears ... How does she know about SRK , I looked puzzled ... only after a couple of more requests from her to see "Shah rukh Khan" video did I realise, she meant "Sher Khan" and her talented accent of saying the same "Shyer Khan" had sounded "Shah Rukh Khan" to my ears. With a little smile, I obliged and she blissfully watched the movie :)))
During my last visit to the library, I spotted "Lion King" and was reminded of my good old school days. We taken to the movie "Lion King" one of those days... the entire theatre was booked for just our school kids and we had thoroughly enjoyed our day out. I just wanted to see the movie again and brought copy the DVD. When the movie was played the first time, my little one watched it with keen interest and insisted on hearing the story from us. Soon, she mastered the story and especially fascinated by "Hakuna Matada" song.
Last week, we borrowed the jungle book video from the library. She seemed to like the movie when we played it the first time. The next day, when it was her TV time, she came to me and said, I want to see "Shah rukh Khan" ... I could not believe my ears ... How does she know about SRK , I looked puzzled ... only after a couple of more requests from her to see "Shah rukh Khan" video did I realise, she meant "Sher Khan" and her talented accent of saying the same "Shyer Khan" had sounded "Shah Rukh Khan" to my ears. With a little smile, I obliged and she blissfully watched the movie :)))
Monday, November 27, 2006
Doom ... sorry Dhoom!
Watched this one of a kind movie over the long week only because my sister wanted company. This was just a "Materpiece" that it forced me to write the review ... note I haven't blogged in almost a month now.
Disclaimers:
1. The movie has no story ... so if you are disappointed by the end of my review that you did not get to read the story ... sorry, don't blame me...
2. Logic is to be forgotten when watching the movie. Most of the scenes defy logic.
3. If you are Abhishek fan ... you will be disappointed. This is an out and out Hritik movie ... I can merely state Abhishek's role as extended guest appearance.
The movie begins with Hritik's look alike ... err... sorry, a queen travelling by train with a precious crown "Somewhere in the desert of Namibia ..." In the movie, the queen comes to make sure her crown is intact and orders the security guards to close down the window in the chamber where the crown is guarded... her statement "If I can see the skies ... so can someone from the skies see the crown". No sooner does she complete this sentence, we see, a person jumping from the skies and landing perfectly on the moving train.... this person is none other than Hritik. (going by the applause he got when we landed on the train ... he sure has ardent fans, who refuse to think logically). Anyways, Hritik dresses like the queen (not difficult ... remember, I told you queen is Hritik look alike) and steals the crown. Hritik is the most "Clever and Cool" thief ! (Bipasha's words in the movie).
The next scene has some mandatory fights, which are supposed to be introductory scenes for Uday and Abhishek, who play cops. Then there is a scene where Bipasha is practicing shooting ... she is supposedly Abhishek's friend from college and now his colleague.
When these guys dance to their college tune, Hritik prepares for the next robbery and well executes it.... then there is another ... and yet another ... may be not ... I never paid attention ... was busy looking at the kid who was muching pop corns.
Ash is introduced much later in the movie ... but she wastes no time in irritating the audience with her dialogue delivery. A lot has been written about Ash's looks / clothes (???) ... to me, she has definitely tonned her self, but her make up is hideous. Lame song / music scenes follow.
The movie shifts from Mumbai to Brazil where Abhishek swears to catch Hritik. After some more lame songs ... Abhishek finally manages to chase Hritik promising an end. In one of the chase scenes, Hritik falls of a cliff and opens a parachute (must say he is a well prepared theif). Abhishek who has been chasing him looks down the cliff and just jumps ... but wait, he has no parachute (not a prepared cop I should say) ... he manages to hang on to Hritik's parachute in mid-air and both land safely.... phew ... !!!!
After 2.5 hrs of such unrelated / illogical scenes the movie finally ends.
Must know:
* Dhoom was a complete timepass ... I think the idea of giving sufficient scene coverage for all actors, weighed heavily on Di-2. The director forgot to pay attention to the story.
* Except Abhishek, all the other main actors wear very little.
* Hritik's performance is just an extension of Krishh.
* Abhishek's make up is pathetic .... perhaps he was shooting for Umrao Jaan and Di-2 simultaneously, my sister reminded. He would have just changed clothes and continued with the make up :)
* Bipasha looks great ... but not sure why she featured in the movie. The movie could easily do away with her.
* Uday was a comic relief in dhoom ... here he fails to evoke any laughter.* Rimi sen has a guest appearance ... what a relief !
* Ash has never been an actor...
* Music is average.
* Nice photography !
Watch the movie at your own risk !!!
Disclaimers:
1. The movie has no story ... so if you are disappointed by the end of my review that you did not get to read the story ... sorry, don't blame me...
2. Logic is to be forgotten when watching the movie. Most of the scenes defy logic.
3. If you are Abhishek fan ... you will be disappointed. This is an out and out Hritik movie ... I can merely state Abhishek's role as extended guest appearance.
The movie begins with Hritik's look alike ... err... sorry, a queen travelling by train with a precious crown "Somewhere in the desert of Namibia ..." In the movie, the queen comes to make sure her crown is intact and orders the security guards to close down the window in the chamber where the crown is guarded... her statement "If I can see the skies ... so can someone from the skies see the crown". No sooner does she complete this sentence, we see, a person jumping from the skies and landing perfectly on the moving train.... this person is none other than Hritik. (going by the applause he got when we landed on the train ... he sure has ardent fans, who refuse to think logically). Anyways, Hritik dresses like the queen (not difficult ... remember, I told you queen is Hritik look alike) and steals the crown. Hritik is the most "Clever and Cool" thief ! (Bipasha's words in the movie).
The next scene has some mandatory fights, which are supposed to be introductory scenes for Uday and Abhishek, who play cops. Then there is a scene where Bipasha is practicing shooting ... she is supposedly Abhishek's friend from college and now his colleague.
When these guys dance to their college tune, Hritik prepares for the next robbery and well executes it.... then there is another ... and yet another ... may be not ... I never paid attention ... was busy looking at the kid who was muching pop corns.
Ash is introduced much later in the movie ... but she wastes no time in irritating the audience with her dialogue delivery. A lot has been written about Ash's looks / clothes (???) ... to me, she has definitely tonned her self, but her make up is hideous. Lame song / music scenes follow.
The movie shifts from Mumbai to Brazil where Abhishek swears to catch Hritik. After some more lame songs ... Abhishek finally manages to chase Hritik promising an end. In one of the chase scenes, Hritik falls of a cliff and opens a parachute (must say he is a well prepared theif). Abhishek who has been chasing him looks down the cliff and just jumps ... but wait, he has no parachute (not a prepared cop I should say) ... he manages to hang on to Hritik's parachute in mid-air and both land safely.... phew ... !!!!
After 2.5 hrs of such unrelated / illogical scenes the movie finally ends.
Must know:
* Dhoom was a complete timepass ... I think the idea of giving sufficient scene coverage for all actors, weighed heavily on Di-2. The director forgot to pay attention to the story.
* Except Abhishek, all the other main actors wear very little.
* Hritik's performance is just an extension of Krishh.
* Abhishek's make up is pathetic .... perhaps he was shooting for Umrao Jaan and Di-2 simultaneously, my sister reminded. He would have just changed clothes and continued with the make up :)
* Bipasha looks great ... but not sure why she featured in the movie. The movie could easily do away with her.
* Uday was a comic relief in dhoom ... here he fails to evoke any laughter.* Rimi sen has a guest appearance ... what a relief !
* Ash has never been an actor...
* Music is average.
* Nice photography !
Watch the movie at your own risk !!!
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