Monday, January 26, 2015

ONCE THERE WAS A PASSION


Since with the inception of our infant days , we were being told lots of stories of the successful personalities who have crossed through many tough bridges of challenges in their life and became affluent in their domain. Be it a scientist, a philosopher, a actor etc.. But at certainty we admired their hardships and always dreamt of becoming one of them , this feeling is inconstant and after few more days there is again a substitute of new dreams. This inconstant reciprocation of the admiration is glued till we enter our youth days. I remember during our schooling days everyone wanted to become a superhero or a cop who would resist the world from the evil monarchs. As the time passes by there is a grooming bud of talent which is getting ready to bloom and one day suddenly without any notification there is an effort made to showcase the module of that quality. Gradually that module draws like a complete portrait of the master of talent within you. The accolades and the standing ovations are the tools of motivation which gives you a voice of encouragement. There is now an accurate understanding without any turmoil that this is the Passion within us.

As the next phase of graduation life begins , there is always an energy to imply the jist of the persuading passion within the group of new friends and classmates. The hunger for the pats on the back keeps your appetite strong to keep on doing new things related with your passion. I remember the poem in my literature section by John Keats “Ode to Nightingale” , what did this ode actually meant for?? This was a query surrounding in my mind as it sounded like a weird topic. 

A drunk poet sitting in the gardens of Spaniards Inn was so mesmerized by the soothing voice of the passerine bird , but I hear the voice of birds everyday why the hell I am not mesmerized. It came to me as a piece of some junk which will help me to cross my first level of graduation year. I consulted with my literature professor that if I understand this junk I would write the description in my examination session in a very simple way. He told me to understand each and every word of the ode with a deep sense of emotions. The ode was not a junk it was a bright peace of reality showcased by Keats in a very subtle way that it should really need a passion to understand the language. The nightingale described within the poem experiences a type of death but does not actually die. Instead, the songbird is capable of living through its song, which is a fate that humans cannot expect. The poem ends with an acceptance that pleasure cannot last and that death is an inevitable part of life. This ode was so encouraging that now there was no stopping to learn in depth about the major contributions from the masters of literature , be it a Shakespeare , Percy Shelley  , Jane Austin or Mary Shelley. There was only one question what was that which gave this icons the notch of success . It was their Passion .. It was their Passion. Every individual wanted to pursue their own passion during our graduation days. Some of them use to play strings of guitars , the tunes which were supporting their vocal tracks , some of them were toughly tapping their feets raising high with an attentive salute to the national flag . Everybody was busy in blooming the trait of their talent. It was the Passion which was encouraging them to do more a bit.

As it is said , there are millions of opinions you get it a free of cost but there is always a distortion in some other way. Few days back i met an old school buddy who was once known for his strength and tactics in Taekwando , his single kick was dangerous enough for his opponents to bow down on their knees accepting their defeat. I was pretty sure that he must be on a national level side as he always had a passion for sports and to be a part of country’s defense arena. His passion towards these areas of interest was meticulous. “Whats up Captain” ?? as a gesture I addressed him as a Captain thinking he must be in Army or a Navy or must be some head of Taekwando institution. “Very good my dear friend , I am sure you are still hands on to your diary or a notepad penning down something creative” as I was known in my college as a writer , “No I am Salesman now , selling solutions but in a creative way” .. There was a laugh which we shared and I was curious to know about him. “ I have joined a manufacturing company as an accountant” I was aghast to this fact that once a strong lad who had a passion to become a knight is now counting money. After puffing down few fags of cigarette there was a story to hear from him . “After stepping out completing my graduation I rushed to the defense administration office to collect the documents for joining the battalion, my granddad the patriarch told me to take over the family business responsibility and assist in day to day business affairs.  It was quite a disappointment that there was a complete lax from his family peers in terms of convincing the authority to give a second thought. The revolution didn’t carried that well as being a superior fighter he had to sacrifice his passion for the happiness of his family. The business didn’t carried out that well and the shutters were down. Struggling for few months there was no choice but to join a firm as an accountant which will keep on atleast the survival mode for his family. Passion and the desire was buried in the grave of compromises and sacrifice.

Every situation is vice-versa , there is also a category of people who have the dearth in terms of accumulating an mindfold understanding for the passion they carry. They are absolutely not a torpid personality its only a kind of laziness dome which they have entered with a strong influential backing of their affluent background . 


There are many examples of the successful personalities who have spearheaded their nations towards the ray of winning spree. It was the passion which shaped up their trait to achieve their ambitions. Passion of achieving high powers in Government constituency have changed a life of a tea seller who is now the Prime Minister of India. Passionate about  being an actor changed the uniform of a bus conductor to the stylish persona. Passion for scoring goals for the nation on the lush green football arena have created a football star. This is not a philosophical blog this is just an attempt to awake all of them to drive the passion within them.

“We know what we are, but not what we may be.” ― William Shakespeare


There is only question we ask ourselves everyday , “Am I happy with what I have done today”?? . Many times we get the answer yes , maybe or no. Some one cracks a better deal that makes a day blessed , tensile situations makes day futile. This is not related to your daily work , this related to the passion which we are carrying. Many of my peers , highlight that due to the limitation of time there is no room for the passion which they are carrying. But what all it takes is just few mins to devote some time to keep the flame of passion burning.


Many a times such situations arises in our life where we feel that we are doing something really wrong , the hatred for the current profession starts rooting up resulting into a guilty feeling of not paying attention to the passion which we wanted to pursue in our good old days of graduation. The feeling of repenting again and again makes us to enter the world of depression. I know few of my peers who have actually committed of landing themselves into a wrong field. Out of 100% there are 80% of the people who are not in the field which they wanted to be and rest 20% are either successful or still struggling to make their names to high marks. I deeply remember the day when I was strolling near an art gallery in Bombay. 


When you enter inside the gallery there are end number of paintings and these are having some message to tell , after a quick look I stepped out of the gallery where outside I found there were few road side artist painting the portraits of the families or a couple or of a toddlers , apart from this they had paintings which were depicting very high language of art , but the earnings were morsel. “Why are u doing this”??  I asked one of the street artist , “Because I love drawing images of people , I love colours and most importantly I love this because I am happy doing this job as painiting is my passion”.
The love for theatre and films is deeply pressed inside the hearts of many individuals , there are many instances where you will find a humongous talents after couple of drinks are down. Many of the moments are of surprising when you suddenly find the hard talking guy singing romantic tracks in a soft and lovely voice. One who is so reserved starts jigging in a flamboyant way. Why is it necessary for those who wants couple of drinks to flag out their passions??.  Some one asked me what is the difference between the hobbies and the passion. There is not much difference in it , your hobbies gives you a skill to become a perfectionist for the passion which you want to pursue , so never ever kill your hobbies. Many of them point out their hobbies  , like Reading , Dancing , Singing , travelling , acting , Sports etc etc  but how many of them have actually converted their hobbies into their passions which will be their tool to achieve the road of success by molding in as their ambitions , very few and they are happy and not regrettable.


I like to read so that I can become a good writer one day. (This is Passion)
I like to read because I love to hear stories (This is Hobby)
I like to dance so that I can become a dancer (This is Passion)
I like to dance just to keep myself out of stress (This is an Hobby)
Few differences to point out the passion and the hobbies.


Certain situations restrain you from following your passion , but all you need is to utilize the talent within yourself anytime whenever there is an opportunity. Todays technology has given some kind of a boon to us. Those who want to be a writer can express their creativity through writing Blogs , those who are talented dancers should have the guts to compete in the talent shows . Being a good sportsman doesn’t mean you have to play for your nation because there are many protocols to reach that level atleast be a member of club. There are various ways to fulfill your passion , don’t let it die come out and reveal it. There will be a blossoms of happiness .



Passion, it lies in all of us, sleeping… waiting… and though unwanted… unbidden… it will stir… open its jaws and howl. It speaks to us… guides us… passion rules us all, and we obey. What other choice do we have? Passion is the source of our finest moments. The joy of love… the clarity of hatred… and the ecstasy of grief. It hurts sometimes more than we can bear. If we could live without passion maybe we’d know some kind of peace… but we would be hollow… Empty rooms shuttered and dank. Without passion we’d be truly dead.” 
– Joss Whedon,










Saturday, January 17, 2015

BEAUTY OF MALVAN

It was been almost a couple of years since me and my family had been off on an amazing holiday , last year I was trying to figure out all the best possibilities where I can scoot out for a much awaited break from my regular hectic work schedule. Well again since it was a time of December all over the world there is a big hush of Christmas celebrations. Same here in India all the holiday packages are quite exorbitantly high as the month of December comes under the peak season category for all the travel service providers. There were many destinations which have their own uniqueness is some other way I was in a complete dilemma about freezing on the location. Budget is something which every family is concerned about , but as it is said by some of the poets and philosophers “Money can’t buy everything” I feel this is wrong..”Money can buy everything”. Now my research started on Google , asking few of my pals. But I am sure my buddies don’t understand the weight which my bank account carries. As all the honourable suggestions are welcomed , still there was a certain amount of limitations monetarily . One day I came across through an article written on Green Ocean in one of the local language newspaper. The picture was so irresistible that all my eyes glued on to the write up of that article. It didn’t matter to me in which language it was , though I perceived that language. The article described about the beauty of Malvan which is a town in Sindhudurg  district in Maharashtra state in India. It also penned down about the beautiful beach of Tarkarli and Devbaug.  My research started happening more on Malvan anxiously . Though many times what we read on Internet there are the possibilities that those locational descriptions are found to be disconnected. Though I like to spend times on Hill stations watching the greenery and breathing fresh air , this time I decided to watch the surf of Green ocean of Malvan and Tarkarli.

Let me give a small description on Malvan . Malvan is a town and taluka in Sindhudurg District, the southernmost district of Maharashtra State, India, well known for the historically important Sindhudurg Fort. Malvan taluka consists of villages such asAangnechi wadi, Achra, Khalchi Devli, Jamdul, Juva, Pankhol and Sarjekot. The main occupation here is fishing with the staple diet of the local people fish curry and rice. The town produces Alphonso mangoes and is also known for sweets such as Malvani Khaja made from gram-besan flour and coated jaggery as well as Malvani Ladoos.

THE JOURNEY BEGINS….

As it is been said by few philosophers , that there is a struggle inorder to experience the beauty of the world and the creation of the nature it was exactly the same struggle which I faced to come closer and experience the lusty sea greenery of Malvan. We came across through a small Travel agency which worked out a wonderful package for us with an inclusion of stay and water sports activities. Want to keep mum on the service providers name or else my readers will feel I am doing a Marketing promotion. The payment was been done by us very well in advance , as prior to that we want to experience the stay in Boat house of MTDC situated on the shores of the green ocean of Tarkarli , but unfortunately we missed out on that as the bookings needs to be done 6 months prior to your visit. But it didn’t demoralized my endeavour to visit the shores of Malvan. Now the most interesting part of journey which my family was planning to have a road trip , but I was not convinced with that ideation of driving for 10 hours with few halts and one night stay. The cost of the fuel was predominantly  overcrossing my budget calculation. When we mean a break it should be relaxation ideally there was only one source of travel which came to mind was a good old railways. I started surfing on to the Online reservation section which gave me an error saying that booking starts one month prior to your date of visit. Now here I will point out what I gone through even after the existence of the online technology arena. I wanted to travel on 29th December 2014 , for which I October I was been told that registrations would start on 29th November 2014 , than the date arrived where now I felt that I would be successful in getting my reservation as i inputed the website address right on the same date. I was very surprised that all the tickets were booked and I was been showing either waiting or RAC(Reservation against Cancellation). Now there was only one old modus operandi which we all use to follow when there was no existence of Online reservation , go the counter and collect the token , make sure that the reservation form is completely filled and equipped with all the details which railways wants to know. I was fortune and unfortunate also. Why ?? .. Here is the reason Unfortunate as the Train which I wanted to travel on was booked and the other option which I considered as a backup I was fortunate to get the booking on that. Only the point was to have a good night sleep on the berth , but it didn’t bothered me so much , as I was going on a long train journey almost after a decade.

It was a midnight of 29th December 2014 when finally my break which I was lasting for 3 years came to the existence. The bogie was get chilled as there was a freezing climate and secondly the airconditioning effect was adding shivers forcing us to cover with woolen attires. The journey began and as the night passed out morning 10.30 am we arrived at a station named “KUDAL”. As we stepped out from the station there was a long queue of Rickshaw drivers awaiting for the passengers to take them to their respected designation. The shouts of Malvan…Malvan ..Tarkarli..Tarkarli were surrounding the environment of Kudal station. “1000 Rupees , what the hell are u taking about ???”.

 “ I am regular visitor of Malvan I know the charge is almost 50% less ,”
“ Come on sir , lets close this on 600 “
“550”
“Ok sir , lets go”
This was the negotiation between me and the rickshaw driver in which I was successful enough. I was already been educated on the do’s and dont’s by my travel agent and I was prepared. Well there was just a distance of 35 kms for mine and Malvan rendezvous , which got completed in the span of an hour.

DAY 1 : LEISURE TIME
As we arrived at Tarkarli , the first thing which I felt was only and only PEACE.. the silence , the pure atmosphere , greenery . My tone was so low because speaking in a high modulation was like spoiling the silent surroundings. We were been escorted to our respective room . After all the altering of our packaged heavy bags and ofcourse getting freshen up was more important to get rid of the mild tiredness which was presented to us by the roads coming towards Tarkarli. The infrastructure was not that pleasing as ofcourse this is a very small town and Tarkarli is completely remote area. One more thing which really made me happy and took me back in to the flashback days of 80’s where there was the complete absence of Mobile phones. I felt as if I am now completely disconnected with outside world and just me and my family feeling added like an essence of rose in a milk.
We never opted for an any other source of travelling in Tarkarli as it becomes very expensive. We preferred to take a bike on hire which is the most recommended option for everyone whomsoever is travelling , because the distance of Malvan from Tarkarli is 4 Kms.  I was been told that never have a food at the resort or hotel where you stay. If you really want to fill up your belly with spicy authentic malvani food which is only coastal , it consists of Fish breeds like Promfet , Kingfish , Prawns , Mackeral served along with a soft wheat chapatti , rice , curry and Kokam Kadi which is usually slurped after the completion of the meal , it tastes tangy and good digestive drink. The cost for one meal is very reasonable and a hefty meal will cost only 1000 Rupees for 3 people. After a luxurious Malvan meal we took a stroll on our 500cc bike to Malvan and returned back to have some cozy sleep in the afternoon .

Evening was as usual nothing interesting to be done , so there was one more round of visit in the market and back again to Tarkarli in search of one more new eatery , which was quite ok. The knock on the door, a gentlemen with a smile uttered “ Sir be ready at 6am tomorrow in the morning , you have a Dolphin Safari , Sightseeing and watersports to be done”. “Ok we will be ready”.. Bid a farewell to our first day in Malvan saying Good Night.





DAY 2 : DEVBAUG BEACH  AND SINDHUDURG FORT.
It was a chilled morning at 6 am after sipping hot tea made up of ginger and mint leaves , there was an enthusiasm of rushing fast to the Devbaug beach following our tour guide on our bike which we hired. There was a desperation of watching the most beautiful creation of the nature a cetacean mammals closely related to whales “DOLPHINS”. 

The most annoying part was to wait for the other group of young couples who were getting late to turn up at sight from where the boat was supposed to take us for a Safari. The delay was pissing me off which forced me to drive firing statements on my tour guide. The group turned up so casually as if they have done some good social cause by turning up to the boat. As the engine started we started sailing inside the ocean. At a distance our boatman stopped and requested for our kind attention , he pointed towards the line of trees and bushes which were structured like a shape of an crocodile thus they name this point as “CROCODILE POINT”… The boat started sailing more further with a one more stop.. 


He showed us an Island which is called as “Tsunami Island”. This island is usually filled up during a high tide and when there is a low tide this is a platform for all the Water sports activities. Now we reach to a point where we were searching for Dolphins to come out and give us some view. Please note : Do not blame the tour operators if you don’t sight a mammal , its all upto to your luck. These dolphins are not paid for giving their beautifying appearance. Click..Click couldn’t resist clicking the pictures as we were lucky enough to spot the dolphins. While returning back we were been introduced to a rock which glitters like a gold when there is a bright sunshine. 

This point is known as “GOLDEN ROCK”.. Now after enjoying the cool wind of ocean there was an anxiety of doing a Parasailing as the height makes be go bonkers , but enjoyed myself flying in a sky with a support of colourful balloon. Jetski , Bumper drive , Banana ride were major attractions at the island.



Coming back to from where we started in the morning we departed for one more adventurous activity at Malvan. It was almost 3pm but we avoided filling up our belly with heavy lunch. There was only one thing in mind go deep inside the ocean and watch the corals and fishes tickling you and playing from your side as if you are a part of their family. Scuba diving was the most exciting part after the dolphin safari. Returning back after experiencing the indepth sea greenery. There we saw a tall standing huge surrounded fort. It was a Sindhudurg Fort. 


The Sindhudurg fort also known as the Ocean Fort , epitomized Maratha Power during the reign of the King Chhatrapati Shivaji. Indeed this naval bastion is a marvel of architecture. The day ended on a good note and a satisfaction which led to a good sleep bidding farewell to the second day in Malvan.



DAY 3 : TARKARLI BEACH
As it was said by Jacques Yves Cousteau “  The sea once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” The similar quote applies to the one of the most beautiful , green and clean beach of India that is “TARKARLI BEACH”. 


It was a third peaceful day of ours in Malvan , where in we decided to take a dip and then stroll on the beach of Tarkarli where the shore was layered with the white sand. It was a satisfying brunch we had at MTDC resort which is situated on the beach of Tarkarli . It was a time to take a dip and enjoy swimming in a clean beach. Any individual staying in a city will not think twice to take a dip in this green ocean as people staying in cities like Bombay , Chennai etc are less fortunate enough to see that greenery and cleanliness in their part of beaches as they are victims of pollutions. 


After getting completely Sun Tanned we moved back to our resort to take a drive back to Malvan city and enjoy Prawns made biryani and Promfet fry. A stroll was necessary after a heavy lunch , we moved towards a beautiful garden named as “ROCK GARDEN” which is just a 1 km away from Malvan town. The park was beautify with Pine trees , flowers and white sand.  The best place was to sit on rocks and watch the ocean. The waves were giving message that forget about the past , enjoy the present. It was the last day of the year and who doesn’t want that the eve of the new year goes very silent and smooth , no sounds of crackers bursting and creating a pollution , no shouts , no music…Just only peace. Bidding farewell to 2014 and to the third day in Malvan , welcoming a new Year and a new day.

DAY 4 : GO GOA
It always gives you an amazing feeling when the first day of the year you get an opportunity to visit the most acclaimed tourist destination in India. After spending 3 days enjoying the green ocean of Malvan and Tarkarli , we decided to spend a day driving from Tarkarli to Goa. Goa is just 100 kms from Malvan and it takes 2 hrs to reach. The journey began at 7 am and we arrived at the beautiful stretch of Mandovi river at 9.30am. The view of  Mandovi river and the heritage government buildings painted in yellow gave an Goan ecstatic feeler. 

All eyes glued to the beautiful structure of Panajim city and definetly the Old Panjim Church at 18th June Road . The church was decorated as it was the new year eve. If anyone wants to see the best Christmas celebration in India , that Goa is the best place. The prime objective was also to pick few stuff from Panajim city and then followed with the sightseeing in Goa. Dona Paola and then lunch at Souza Lobo eatery on Calangute beach. The day was coming to an end where I still felt that I am missing the greenery and cleaniless on the certain beaches of Goa. 


Goa is now very commercial , but still it is the best tourist destination of India. I am not writing much about  Goa because my blog is completely on the beauty of Malvan . A tiresome drive back to Malvan and then the time came to bid farewell to the 4th and the last day in Malvan.







Day 5 : GOOD BYE MALVAN…WILL SEE YOU SOON
As it is been said , there are no Goodbyes.. The beauty of Malvan , the charm of Tarkarli Beach , those palm trees whispering to each other,  while wind is spreading the cool aroma of ocean , the white sands which is mesmerizing .. all of them holding you back. All the bags packed and drive back to Kudal which completes the journey to the beautiful Malvan. A visit is a must once in a lifetime to a scenic Malvan and Tarkarli. This blog is just not a blog this is a diary of my memories which I have brought back from Malvan.

“ON EARTH THERE IS NO HEAVEN , BUT THERE ARE PIECES OF IT…”
Jules Renard.




The images shown in the blogs are the real images click from a Non professional camera...

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

WHO THE HELL NEEDS A LOGIC...BOLLYWOOD ROCKS

Returning back home after completing my stressy work schedule , i decided to chill out sitting in front of my TV set tuning into a bollywood movie channel. I am a die hard fan of Bollywood movies , not that there is no spice in Hollywood movies but when we talk and see the bollywood movies its completely entertaining. Hindi Cinema has its own identity. There are many characters which are born through a womb of ideas and creativity. Today we are a part of modern world and globalization. Technology has created a generation where the human mind is completely addicted to it. Mobile Phones , Ipads, Notebooks etc. Existence of Social Media creating a majority of an awareness on all the topics. This is a fast moving world and we all are on our toes crushing our minds and souls to keep on the sustainability. To defeat the foe called stress every individual has its own way to tackle it. I love watching movies. 

So coming back to Hindi Cinema . Since its inception there were many stories which were been created by the fathers of cinema , their ideas,creativity were served to the audience in the form of a platter comprising of Comedy,Drama,Tragedy and Literature. Moving on to the generations the concept were changed , keeping in mind those time current scenarios. Every movie had a story which was fictional but it reflected the creativity of the person who have spent days and night to board the script. Now here we talk something about the logical part. As i depicted in my above paragraph existence of technology and a boom of social media have forced today's individual to pinpoint logic in all the current movies. I believe that when we need to keep ourselves out of the cranky feeling after been getting tired , giving few minutes to Illogical things will keep you entertained. But no who wants to do that , our audience is happy with only Logic. Yeah... Yeah i know the education , designation don't allow us to move away from the decorum of being flamboyant. I think sometimes those days of 1980's and 90s though many movies were not pertaining to logic , they were fictional but it holded you back to sit for 3 hours giving a dose of laughter,tears,spook and anxiousness. " WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU WATCHING"?? a good old friend asked me tapping his forehead blaming me that i have gone bonkers. I told him i am watching something interesting where in a male snake and female snake are transforming from a creature to a human being within seconds , dancing around the bushes and fighthing with a baddie snake charmer who wants to acquire a diamond. There was a burst of laughter from him and i told him you see my narration gave you a joy for a second , think if you see for few hours you will be enlightened . Keeping a link for you guys...


There are many movies in Indian Cinema which are Ilogical but it gives an essence of entertainment for a shortwhile. I came across through one Youtube channel where the two IIT passed dudes making a mockery of some of the Illogical bollywood movies and earning likes and shares. I guess earning revenues too... I am sure if they would have followed Logic they could have been sitting currently right now in some IT server rooms. Dudes nothing offensive ... on the contrary you are giving the audience some laughter through editing ham scenes of this illogical bollywood movies scripted by someone in past  which i guess if given a chance today to you boys such hilarious scripts must have never came to your logical minds.. There are many creations from the script writers where logic was being ignored but those days logic was never in the minds of audience when they were entering into the cinema hall. There used to be the cheer and accolades with a large burst of whistling sounds even when there was no logic. The dialogues and the punch lines were enough for a boy among the audience who use to imaginary portray himself as a hero and for a girl who use to smile with a blushness when a hero was praising her lady love by singing running among the trees. There was no Logic but still who needs a logic. 

Romance , when it comes to my mind. Romeo-Juliet , Shirin-Farhad or Bollywood romantic movies. A boy absolutely pauper meets a stylish , charming girl travelling in Mercedes in a college. An eye contact blossoms the flowers of love. They cannot resist the charm of their auras. They are staying in a city with full of cars and traffic and when they sing a song within a seconds they are in the hills of Himalayas with snow all over. Then comes the struggle of convincing the bad daddy of the girl who throws a blank cheque on the boy and tells him to forget his charming lady love. The boy fights back saying that he is NOT FOR SALE...


 A villian captures the lady and the marriage is all set. The boy now becomes a cowboy and chases the bad man riding a horse who has kidnapped his love and rushing on a jeep. Punches and Kicks and the Bad Daddy in the end becomes a Good daddy.. NO LOGIC , BUT WHO THE HELL NEEDS LOGIC. Many such movies have earned a good cash in those days and they were Jubilee hits. This fictions made many stars a Superstars. 




Horror was on peak in 80s. There is only one name which can be recalled in all the bollywood lovers mind. RAMSAY BROS.. Today when i see those movies we give a hefty laugh. A group of young dudes with their babes travelling to an dense jungle in their open jeep. Its a dark night , suddenly their jeep breaks down, One tyre is flat but they are now worried as they are stuck , no jack , no spare tyre as if they just ran from their homes unprepared. Suddenly they see a dark palace , gate is not locked . Now comes a lame crocked man with a lantern in his hand and welcoming them with his scary stare. Still these dudes are cool and check in like as they entering a lobby of a 7 star hotels. Though the palace is closed for years but every room is neat and clean like a Presidential suite. 


Sound effects and huge monster appears who walks and chases the babe with a turtle speed. The babe runs fast like Usain bolt but the monster appears and wins the race. 

Now there are series of killings happenings in the palace but the dudes are still checked in as if they are enjoying every moment in their presidential suite. Finally the main Hero of the film is the GODDDDD.... who doesnt appear but its statue is enough to give a beam of sonicrays which forces the monster to die.. Die okk he is already dead ... LOGIC...NO LOGIC BUT WHO THE HELL NEEDS LOGIC. Its entertainment.

Now when i think about the baddies , there are many baddies in Bollywood who are Illogical. Today's generation baddies are very serious bollywood baddies. But the Baddies of those illogical movies were quite entertaining. Their names were quite stunning and Illogical but quite funny. Bhujang the dacoit turned into a stylish Smuggler, Bald Shakaal reprising the character inspired from James Bond villian Dr Blofield a cheif of an organization called SPECTRE..only the difference Blofield use to sit with his sweet kitty in his laps , but who can beat bolly shakaal who use to pet a crocodile. 

Chappan Tikkli a baddies with 56 moles on a face wow don't need an evil eye to protect from a bad sight. A baddie dacoit who is resting in his prison cell for 11 years and collecting the black powder coated on the stick just to put fire to himself so that he can escape one day. Wow what a logic and what an innovative thought. But who the hell needs logic..



Action is always been a core part of Bollywood movies. There are many action sequences in Bollywood which has given nightmares to the icons like Jackie Chan , Jean Claude Van Damme and Van diesel. Sorry i have not named many of them , but they have been in a huge turmoil that how can these slim and tiny bollywood heroes do this??. Well know actor Rajnikanth is known for his stylish actions which has the ability to win a fight with a single punch making 40 henchmens resting in peace. There are many movies where the story is very simple. A honest cops comes to a small town which is been ruled by a baddie and his bros. 

The cop is so honest and fearless that he openly challenges the baddie in his own den. The honest cop wears colourful jackets dances in the open spaces of hills with 25 dancers accompanying. The baddie kills the cop family. Now the cop becomes baddie and he takes revenge. In this entire sequence he jumps from 25 floor building but lands on his toes very smoothly. Jumps like a Dolphins and turns like a gymnast working in a circus. LOGIC..NO LOGIC BUT WHO THE HELL NEEDS LOGIC...




Bollywood Illogical movies always have been an inspiration in some other way , as in today's arena we find logic being given more priority. We know that truth is bitter so taste the bitter pie as we need to live with it. But if we add the sweet honey of Illogical bee that sweetness will lite you up little....


Before winding up i love to share some dialogue and share some bollywood scene which have less consistency of Logic , but WHO THE HELL NEEDS A LOGIC... 


Movie 
Don (1978)
Inspector Dsilva - Kya Chahte Hoon (What do you want)
Jaggi - Aapka Khoon karna Chahta hoon , umeed hain aapko koi aitraaz nahi hain ( I want to kill you , i hope you will not mind)

If you get an Heart attack , just be patriotic





BOLLYWOOD ROCKS......






Saturday, November 22, 2014

BUN AND TEA IN BOMBAY...

Before the sun rises and on the crowing of a rooster , the furnace is lit for a baking . The aroma of a freshly baked bread surrounds the small lanes of South Bombay and essence of vanilla used  in making Mawa cakes (Muffins) tempts everyone passing by to have a brunch. That’s the ecstasy which every individual of Bombay gets from an Irani/Parsi Restaurants. Irani/Parsi Restaurants are the most old iconic brunch stops which have their own stature in terms of their quality and class. Gushing sounds of a rush in a early hours of morning and a challenge to find a wooden chair of a thick straws as a seat. The tapping sounds of a Cup and Saucers on the tables covered with a transparent glass which makes easy to read the menu fixed inside. Its been almost a many decades these restaurants fills in the empty stomach every morning and refreshes so many minds with a soothing taste of tea.


 South Bombay comprises of many Parsi and Irani Restaurants and from the time of British regime. One of the most famous Parsi restaurants in the area of Ballard estate is “Britania and Co”.. If anyone watch Hindi movies this Parsi restaurant was showcased in the most acclaimed movie of 1988 “Tezaab”… “ Bawa yeh Murga Bahut Accha hain “ a marwadi character making a statement to a tall , fair built uncle sitting with a Rooster on his counter table.. Mr. Boman Kohinoor a man who has still kept his restaurant reputation up to date. The history goes this way …Mr Bomans father wanted to start this restaurant, when this restaurant was renovated and decorated; he wanted to get quick permission from the British commissioner, to start it straight away. Those were the days of the British, so he thought of giving it a British name, so that the British municipal commissioner at that time being British on seeing the name Britannia he will grant permission immediately. That was the British era, so that is why he gave the name ‘Britannia’. Till today this restaurant is famous for their dish called as “Berry Pulao” though it is expensive but anyone would be tempt and don’t think about shelling out money for this wonderful. It is said that the visit to Britania is incomplete if you don’t have a Berry Pulao.




Moving further from Ballard Estate one who is born during 70s and his childhood days of 80’s will never forget the bread pudding of Kyani and co. Those Sundays of 80’s will always be fresh in my mind. Me and my brother use to take bicycles on hire from Chira Bazar by paying just 2 Rs for 2 Hours . Driving happily on the empty , clean and potholes less streets of Bombay our main destination was Kyani and co. The tempt of eating Bun Bread , Pudding and Chocolate milk would force us to pedal fast as if we both are participating in a race. Tring Tring move aside man.. use to be our statements to the passerby who were coming in our way like a hurdles stoping us to munch our favorite brunch. Parking our bicycle and jiggling sounds of a coins and a green five rupee note was enough for us to order our favourite. “Good morning uncle , kem cho (How are you)” was our first words before we run upstairs and catch the seat which can give a view to the downside of a café.. “ Ek Bun Maska , Pudding aur Paani kum Chai” (Tea with less water and milk to the fullest) was our command to a simple person who was taking our order as he was doing his job. 


Looking at the menu carefully again and make sure the calculated money what we got would be enough to pay . Burp sounds after sipping a hot tea use to create a stare from others reminding us to maintain the table manners , but who the hell cares.. Kyani and co still a very famous Parsi restaurants in the outskirts of South Bombay. It was a must go joint for all the Parsi Dasturs after finishing their duties at Atash Behrams. Be it a Parsi New Year , Jashan (Prayers for Happiness) , Gathas (Prayers for departed souls) all the Parsi families would rush to Kyani for filling in their empty stomachs with Cakes , Puddings and Omlettes of this restaurants. Those were the days of 80’s when Kyani was getting a stiff competition from his neighbor “ Bastani and Co”.. Some of them said they are both hand in hand.. I really miss munching the chicken patties offered to us by one of beloved Adi Uncle and his bachelor brother Behram. “ Dikra Raspberry pise” (Will you have Raspberry drink) ..Yuck was the only expression as me and my brother hated the sweet taste of Raspberry. Secondly there were no free promotional goodies which we use to get after opening the cap of Thumbs Up.. I remember we use to collect the pictures of our Favourite cricketers like Kapil Dev , Srikanth , Dilip Vengsarkar , Sunil Gavaskar which were printed on the thick soft plastic of the cap. The more you collect you are eligible for a prize. I still remember buying Easter eggs from Kyani and co during those days . Till today Kyani has continued its legacy.


I know many who always remark on the question that whats your favorite Parsi Cuisine.. “DHANSAK , CURRY RICE , BOOMLA(Bombay Ducks) , MUTTON NA KABAB”..Hold on before your mouth starts watering. Ideal dishes of Bawajis and to have them a lovely place situated in the thin lanes of Hutatma Chowk is “ IDEAL RESTAURANT”.. No one can never forget the aroma of a fresh cooked brown basmati rice and a thick Dal with a Chicken or mutton dipped inside. Mutton Kabab to add some more relish and a Caramel custard completes every person desire of satisfying his/her hunger after having a blissful lunch at theIdeal. One of the best place to have Parsi Lunch and Dinner in South Bombay. I don’t have much memories about Ideal but I remember eating Bombay ducks , Mutton Patties which my aunt use to get for us in evenings. “ SASSANIAN RESTAURANT” is also one of the most well know place for DHANSAK lovers. To add more information on DHANSAK .. 

Dhansak is a popular Indian dish, especially popular among the Parsi Zoroastrian community.It combines elements of Persian and Gujarati cuisine. Dhansak is made by cooking mutton with a mixture of lentils and vegetables. This is served with caramelised brown rice, which is rice cooked in caramel water to give it a typical taste and colour. The dal cooked with mutton and vegetables served with brown rice, altogether is called dhansak. In Parsi homes, dhansak is traditionally made on Sundays as it is a heavy dish to digest and owing to the long preparation time.Dhansak is also always had on the fourth day after the death of a near one. There is no meat consumed for three days after the death of a near one. And dhansak is used to break this abstinence on the fourth day. Dhansak hence, is never prepared on auspicious occasions like festivals and weddings. Coming towards one of the most old theatre in South Bombay New Excelsior stands opp to it is also one of the most famous Parsi restaurant “CAFÉ EXCELSIOR”.. All Dhansak lovers will not miss this joint. A leg piece of a chicken which will be enough to fill you up . I still remember separate family room cabins upstairs usually filled up with Families , college going love birds and office going couple deciding about their future with just 2 cups of tea.
Now who can forget stepping out of platform No 1 of Grant Road station opposite to it stands one of the most unforgettable Parsi café and still going strong for 10 decades. The Light green colour painted window panes above the restaurant is itself a landmark and a billboard named with big letters “B MERWAN AND CO.”. Whether a labourer , an artisit , a Government officer , Professor, an individuals of all professions will be found enjoying their favorite Mawa Cake which was and still today one of the favorites in whole Bombay.  “Where will I get good Mawa cakes”?? The answer would be get up early in the morning rush to B.Merwan before 9am or else you will miss this sweet and hot muffin to grub with a tea or a glass of a milk. Started in 1914 by Boman Merwan, the grandfather of one of the current owners, Sarosh Irani, it has been the best place for anyone who likes to indulge in a delicious breakfast or their most famous mawa cake and samosas. 

I still recollect my old college days taking a train from Charni Road station and covering a distance in just 2 mins . Rushing with my friends to B.Merwan and ordering the lovely muffins along with Omlettes, Kheema and Milk. It was enough to keep us going on till lunch hours at 2 pm. Few months back there was a news that this café is on a verge of a shut down which created a disappointment in thousands of hearts of B.Merwan lovers , but no it was again up and still going strong. Some of the old citizens who don’t  have a money to dine are never left empty handed. They are been given bread and cake to eat though the visit of them is regular. Parsis strongly believe in Charities and serving the poor. One of the best thing about these restaurants which they have maintained till date. No Cards please.. Only Cash.
I am not been biased mentioning only about these cafes , there are many other cafes too which is giving a shine to our good old Bombay.  But above everyone these Parsi/Irani restaurants have been a part of everyone memories whether the situations were Happy , Sad or regular. 







Saturday, November 15, 2014

Jimmy goes for a Stroll... A story to tell..

It was a drizzling month of July 1988 , All bags packed and set to leave his beloved Bombay, Jimmy a banker was migrating with his family to Australia leaving his mother in tears and making his father feeling proud that his son is on his path of making a better career. Jimmy who grew in a city of dreams and loved this city so much was in a depressed mood that he will miss this wonderful city for a long time. Those greenery of Hanging Gardens , Sands of Chowpatty , lovely streets of Flora fountain will be now memories as he was not sure when he would turn up. “6 Months Mamma-Pappa you will be with me watching an Opera in Sydney’s Opera House”..Jimmy told very confidentally. With a happy smile father replied “My dear son you make your best in your life , such opportunities are very rare , we will be happy watching movies over here at Opera House Charni Road , it is not that we will not come but to settle there I wont be convinced”.. Large bags to move downstairs was a bit challenge as the floors of Banaji Building were quite narrow and half cracked so carefully Jimmy loaded all the bags in an Ambassador taxi called specially by Fali Uncle. There was no stopping for tears , Jimmy’s mother cant hold her emotions to the fact that their son is going seven seas far.

All formalities done with the custom officials Jimmy with his wife Peenaz was all set to board his flight to Sydney. Looking from a gate Jimmy bid farewell to his city not knowing when he will turn back. Hands waving towards Jimmy that was a moment when he broke down but the thought of the opportunity forced him to move towards the Air India flight. The announcement was made and the seat belts were tied. “Ladies and Gentlemen welcome on Air India flying to Sydney , the journey would be completed in 17 hours , I hope you will enjoy the flight”..There would be a new beginning in the next 17 hours for Jimmy. The flight was disappeared in the clouds the tears were now dry and the hope that their son will do well and successfully return back.

Time and tied waits for no one, there was no turning back for Jimmy . Letters , greeting cards of Pateti Mubarak were the best gift for Jimmy from his parents. Few of the times Trunk calls would allow Jimmy to have a emotional touch with his parents in Bombay. Days and nights gone by Jimmy was busy with his banking work slowly was promoted to a Sr Investment banker in one of the reputed banks of Australia. Jimmy now only speaks the language of dollars. Peenaz was busy handling the responsibility of the family with their children studying in a convent school and are no longer considered as Indians but only from an Indian origin..Aussies we are..Jimmy always maintained the distance from the Australian culture though ofcourse he was an Indian by heart. But situations force to adopt the culture sometimes when you need to grow among them. Jimmy always had discussion with his father on the cricket matches played between India and Australia. “ You guys lost the match on your own home ground , your team is a waste”..Jimmys father use to tease him whenever Australia lost to India. In defence Jimmy always made his point clear that he is an Indian more than an Aussie. “I am proud of you my son”.. That makes Pappa happy. But Cricket was not only the part of discussion between father-son duo ..Years passed on Business trade news , Government policies  were always a part of discussion between father and son through letters. Jimmy paniced and it was night of March 1993 when there was long trunk call happened to his parents to make sure they are safe. ISD sooner started making life more better for Jimmy.

It was a time now for Jimmy to get his children attain the Zoroastrianism and do their childrens Navjote. “Why can’t we do their Navjote here in Sydney , we all have our friends here”..Peenaz said. “What about your Mom “?? Jimmy replied as Peenaz father passed away when she was very young. “ What about my Mamma-Pappa”??.. “ We will call them here “..This was a moment when Jimmy was ecstatic as he will be seeing his parents back after a long long time. Now there were series of calls made to Mamma and Pappa from Sydney to Bombay.. “ Don’t call it Bombay its Mumbai now” .. Pappa said. That was year of 1995. Time to stand in a long queues of passport office , give some chai-paani to the officials to get the passport done quickly so that a long waited parents can meet their beloved son. “ It will take 2 months for a passport to come but there were series of documents you need to submit” said an Passport officials. Finally a bell rings on a third floor of Barucha Mansion with a postman smiling “ Congratulations sir I have brought your passport”. This was the news which made an old parents so happy that the time has come to see their son.  “ We are coming to Sydney son” Pappa with his excited tone and glass of whiskey to toast a cheers and thanking Ahura Mazda.  All set to fly it was a again Fali uncle to called for a taxi to Sahar airport.. “ Hasta Ramta Aavjo” (Go happily and come Happily)..Fali waving to the most awaited parents whose wait is gonna get over today.  It took again 17 hours for one mother who was going to get welcomed by his son in tears of happiness and 17 hours for a father who was a proud to have his son reached on the level of success. There was a happiness all over Sydneys airport and a sigh of relief for a son that his parents are hale and hearty. Corridors of Jimmy’s home were eagerly waiting to welcome his parents. With a broad chest Jimmy’s father entered the house earned by his son through his hardwork. 10 days of happiness passed away so fast that time came for them to return back to their motherland. Showering blessings on the newly Zoroastrianism attained children Jimmy’s parents returned back with a happiness and tears in their eyes to India.

Years passed on and the world entered the millennium , Jimmy got so busy with his new position of a CEO and now the distance came in between Sydney and Mumbai. With E-mail , Skype , Gtalk and more technologies coming into existence the distance was getting bleak. It was Ronnie Fali Uncles Grandson who got connected with Ray , Jimmy’s son whose real name was Raiyomand but Aussies prefer Ray  on Facebook. Pictures of Ray with his parents during the parties and other celebrations were published on Facebook ..But now the old eyes did not have enough vision to see clearly their darling son grown on a top position with his grayish hair.. IT WAS A NIGHT of August 2012 when Jimmy’s new Samsung Galaxy Grand vibrated and this was the call which made Jimmy completely broked , being a top CEO of a multinational bank Jimmy collapsed like a hungry popper who don’t have a single penny in his pocket. “ Your Dad is no more” said Fali uncle in a very sad and sorry mode. Jimmy’s father was suffering from a heart problem and that morning he bid this world a goodbye forever. “Where is Mamma”?? a curious Jimmy wanted to know. “She is in a shock and completely alone”.. Jimmy hang up the phone and lets leave now , a concerned Peenaz who never saw her husband in such state. Qantas was the only option available rest everything is booked. Jimmy was in not a state of mind to wait for a agent to get him a best deal. Jimmy left immediately to say final goodbye to his friend,guide and loving Pappa. Those 17 hours again was the worse hours which Jimmy had… Jimmy’s Plane landed on the runway of Sahar Airport . “ Do you have anything to declare”?? asked the custom official.. Jimmy with his grim face gazed at the officer and replied “Nothing”.. Jimmy and Peenaz came out of the Airport and were escorted by a cabbie with their luggage. As they drove towards Colaba there was a huge jam reason , jimmy was loosing his patience as his Fathers dead body was waiting for his sons arrival. As the cab moved further heavy rains welcomed Jimmy . The traffic was moving slow as the jam was due to the bad roads which Jimmy was surprised to see. But the bad roads didn’t bother much as Jimmy was awaiting to reach Tower of silence. After a long wait Fali uncle came towards Jimmy as his cab took a halt at Tower of silence. “Where is Mamma”?? Jimmys curiousity was increasing , he rushed towards her to give a tight hug of consolation . After the rituals Jimmy , Peenaz and all bid a final farewell to the departed soul.

“Nothing doing Mamma , now you are coming with us “?? Jimmy made his point very clear that he is not going to leave his mom alone anymore in this city. Jimmy Mamma was pretty silent as still she was not completely recovered from the shock of loosing an important person of her life. Now there are four days left for Jimmy he didn’t wanted to lock himself in a room of Barucha mansion. He decided to be alone for few hours and go for a small stroll. JIMMY GOES ON A STROLL… Coming towards the main circle he was eagerly waiting for bus No 66 to come where in he can take a small ride in a Double decker bus . Jimmy recollected his old school days where he use to race with his friends to win the front seat of the upstairs bus deck where the wind gust would hug you in its cool arms for a second and force to close your eyes . Awaiting for few mins 66 Bus came to an halt at the stop but to Jimmy’s surprise the top deck was missing. He let it go , awaiting for another one his eagerness to take a ride in a Old Bombay’s Double decker bus was shattered. He asked one gentlemen standing next to him that there where is the vintage bus of Bombay to his curious query the reply “ Woh to bund hogayi”(It is no more in function)..

Jimmy decided to walk and thought to revive his old memories as he was not anymore sure now to return back to this city taking his Mamma to Sydney. The walk in the lanes of Flora Fountain were not that good as there was a huge rush of public gushing towards their work.  “My God so much of rush have I landed to some wrong place”..wondering the city has completely filled up with no place even to walk comfortably. The heat was increasing as the rains took a small break , Jimmy came towards the circle where he known there was a Gola wala (Ice Candy seller) keeping that hope of having the chiller he saw a Mcdonalds restaurant where there was a huge crowd sitting with their meals. “How stupid I can be , it is not necessary that the seller would be here again , but he was very good”.. He walked ahead and cames towards the Heritage Victoria Terminus (Now CST).  Come on lets meet my good friend Burjor who was a operator in a single screen cinema. I am sure he is must have become very old . Jimmy remembered the days when Burjor use to give him free tickets. Jimmy rushed towards the hall and to his surprise there was no presence of his good friend Burjor , the gate which opened happiness to all the movie watchers was closed completely. This is shut down sir , a pan shop owner with a pity in his voice. Where must be my friend?..He thought to go to his house and check at Princess street. Jimmy’s stroll start becoming little faster with a curiousity to know the whereabouts of his good friend. He cames towards the gigantic Azad maidan , which was looking now more of a Battlefield than the olden days cricket grounds . The difference which Jimmy found out was in those days every youngster playing on this ground wanted to become Kapil Dev or Gavaskar , now every youngster is using this ground to learn the tricks and trades of politics. There was a huge chaos and all cops were gazing their eyes to make sure that nothing turns up ugly. “ THIS IS NOT MY BOMBAY”…Jimmy muttered to himself.

Looking depressed he decided to walk further , the feeler he got after watching the old Xaviers college was something refreshed his memories. Jimmy had a Girlfried named Melissa Pereira who was from Xaviers. But that was a infatuation stage which passed away. A smile but again a curiousity about Burjor forced Jimmy to take a further walk. Now he was close to Princess street but there again there were only few things which Jimmy could stop refreshing his memories after seeing them. Metro cinema which is now a Multiplex . Jimmy and Peenaz watched so many movies in this theatre after leaving from their offices. A cup of Tea and pudding at Kyani and Co. Still few things were existing for Jimmy.  Looking for his old friend Jimmy reached Madina Mansion where his friend Burjor was staying.  KNOCK KNOCK ..” Who is there”?? an Old voice came behind the door.. “Its me Burjee , your friend Jimmy Vatcha”.. An old man wearing Sudra and Pyjama with a big glasses which can help him to have a better vision saw a polished man standing on his doorsteps. My dear friend Jimmy where were you,  I missed you a lot replied the good old Burjor.. The House was completely messed and there were quite big rats in the house. “ I got the news of Uncles death , sorry for that I couldn’t come”..”Whats wrong with you Burj? We are of same age and what happened to you , you look weak , and broken” Jimmy replied. Burjor replied “ My dear friend Jimmy , its been years now that you have left this city where we shared all the happiness and sorrows of our young life. You left the country but I never gave up though today I am collapsed but this city has given me bread and butter. My son left me and went to USA and its been now almost a years he has not come back. I am surviving on trusts help. Theatre is closed but still I am alive with my old memories. No one speaks with me but I hear a voice of this city every moment and feel that every person in this city is talking to me. Things have changed my dear friend and change is inevitable. But we have to live ”…

Jimmy leaves the house and the day comes when he has to now return back .  Jimmy knows that now all these are lovely memories which he refreshed during his stroll and now he will never return back to his loving city as his mother was now with him.  He only uttered few words when he was boarding his Flight “ My dear Dad and My dear Bombay you will be missed completely”……..