Blogger's end

This October

2011-10-14T21:31:00.005+05:30

...And it's this time of the year when I am the most upbeat!

October happens to bring the birthdays of some of my favourite people, me included. It's the time of the year, when the weather goes all pleasant. A time when you suddenly find dry leaves on the roads. I have always been fond of walking on dead leaves.. I love the crisp sound they make.. October marks the presence of autumn and there's a beautiful smell all around. And it also has the maximum holidays in my working calendar..yayy!

Today I complete four years in the blogosphere. And it's a very fulfilling feeling. For me, the blog's like a piece of me, evolving with each year. Sometimes, it was the place when I wanted to hide, a safe haven unknown from the people around. Some other times, it was the place where I shared my secrets, celebrated my small joys and most importantly, felt heard. Being here, I have known so many wonderful people who have shared thoughts on many different things and also on our lives. I have learnt, read and enjoyed so much all the while.

This October is a little different, but it's special none the less. I finally closed an important chapter of my life... and if I may add, for good. It had dragged on for a very long time now. I feel more peaceful. I have been not too well lately, but things are looking bright. I guess, bright would be an euphemism. I complete twenty five years of my life in two weeks from now. I feel a little old but very benign. I probably will be celebrating my birthday alone this time as none of my friends are here in Kolkata. It's a little sad because on the last few birthdays I was with a lot of people... people who mattered. Funnily, I would always go into a fit of depression an hour or so before my birthday and would play dead fish. It would take a bit of cajoling on my friends' part and I would soon be enjoying myself and entertaining others.

Anyway, if any of my pallies are reading this and don't want me to be alone in this BIG day I promise not to be stingy and take you out for a grand treat.

I met grandpa some days back and we watched a football match together. He's thinned and I'm worried. Since I could only be there for a day, I spent as much time I could talking and listening to him. I also took the keys of the closet full of literature books from his time. It had not been touched since the last time I had opened it. I chose a few books, all of them in a shade of dirty yellow. The books were all dated and some of them were about half a century old. They were neatly wrapped in newspapers of the time. I read a column on the Indo Pak war and saw an ad of George ciggarattes. And so I carried back with me some priceless memories, a part of my grandpa and a tiny part of history.

There's a quiteness around me which I'm slowly getting used to. It used to be terrible initially as I used to feel very lonley. Now, I would prefer it this way. (not on my birthday, ofcourse!)

But things are good.I hope everything remains this beautiful and I can manage the rest with a bit of luck. Wishing you all God's peace. A happy October!

Sins & Guilt

2011-10-10T23:44:00.007+05:30

A woeful heart, a soul taken

A love untold, a love forsaken

I mock, I lie, I spurn, I jilt.

Lips quiver to confess

The sins & guilt.

I play blindfold with my life,

Ah! it slips out like an ebbing tide,

But sing not my requiem, not yet

I have to pray

for the woe beget!

I repent, I seek mercy

I despair & wait to retire,

Hush, for I shall now pass under the blue sky

And not a blade (of grass)

shall tell where i lie.

Sometimes

2011-09-09T22:01:00.005+05:30

Sometimes you miss someone.

Sometimes you wish you'd never moved on.

Sometimes, pictures flood your memories with good times shared.

Sometimes you wish you had captured the moment and framed it forever.

Sometimes you wish you had not got angry that day.

Sometimes you wish you had never said those words or done those deeds.

Sometimes a surge of emotion pushes you to end the struggle.

Sometimes it keeps you connected, and you love the struggle.

Sometimes you feel the need to hold on when it's hard to hold back.

Sometimes it hurts to listen to your heart.

And sometimes all it takes is a little prayer, a little hope and a little faith to come out of darkness.

The missing link

2011-08-28T16:53:00.004+05:30

“Am I missing something?” In last one hour this was the 3rd time he had been asking the same question to himself. His flight to Mumbai was scheduled at 9.30 am and it’s already 8. Hence he started looking for a taxi. Thank God! He could see a ‘kolkata special entire yellow’ cab crawling in towards him.

‘Dada! Airport jaabo’. (Will you go to airport?) and without waiting for the driver’s answer, he went inside the washed out vehicle.

The driver gave a smirk and said ‘250 bucks’.

‘What!! The airport is hardly 7 kms from here...c’mon. It comes 80 if you go as per the meter. There is the height of cheating. Why don’t you guys go and loot a bank?’ Well, I will give 20 bucks extra. That’s the max I am gonna pay you, not a single paisa more than 100.”

He was almost moving out of the taxi, again the driver said ‘babu…meter is not working, give me 150, that’s the last price’. He looked at his watch, ‘its 8.20 now…let’s not argue with this bloody driver for the sake of saving 50 bucks. I should not miss the flight’. He murmured and sat in.

‘Ok…I will pay you 150, but just switch on your meter, let me see what’s the exact fare from here to the airport’. The driver gave a cynical look, though he didn’t look convinced; yet he nodded his head and said ‘yes’ to this proposal.

Again he started thinking…’what is missing, I guess I have lost something’. He rechecked his handbag and the check-in bag. Nope, everything seems to be fine and intact.

All of a sudden the driver said ‘dekha dada…you were saying that the airport is 7 kms from your place. See what the meter is showing now. We have travelled almost 8 kms and yet 2 more kms to go. Ae taxi ta amar sab diner byapar, jhut kyun bolunga aapko’. (I drive this taxi everyday on the same road, so why should I tell you a lie)

‘It’s ok…my mistake, don’t worry…will pay you the amount which I have promised’, he replied to the driver. Finally they reached at the airport, it was quarter to nine. Perfect! He reached on time. The meter showed 143 bucks. He paid 150, thanked the driver and hurried up towards the departure terminal A7.

‘Ek minute dada! He saw the same cab driver was calling him. ‘Now what? Might ask for more money as he landed me over here on time… gosh!
‘Dada, you have left your mobile phone in my cab. Tadatadi jaabe to erakum hi hobe (if you move so fast, you will keep on missing things just like this). Now go, else you will miss the flight.’

He plugged in the earphones and a beautiful track was on…”Stay gone”; a masterpiece by Jimmy Wayne…
I found piece of mind I'm feeling good again
I'm on the other side
Back among the living
Ain't a cloud in the sky
All my tears have been cried
And I can finally say…

So baby, baby stay
Stay right where you are
I like it this way
It's good for my heart
I haven't felt like this
In God knows how long
I know everything's gonna be okay
If you just stay gone…

He smiled coz he realised what was missing...!

Buried

2011-08-13T19:48:00.008+05:30

I see you happy with her and I don't like it. I see her throwing furtive glances at you and rest her head on your shoulder.I stare at the pictures and it hurts inside. I'd seen it in her eyes the first time I'd met her, but I guess you didn't. For quite some time after that I'd wondered if you guys would look good together. She didn't like me and I, ofcourse didn't trust her. But I'd accepted her...for you. But would you believe me if I said she is wicked. I see her trying to steal you away from me slowly step by step with each of her moves... or are you no more mine?

She claims to be your best friend, but does she really have your best at heart?

Or are you so naive that you don't see that she cares for you,feels for you... loves you!

Do you love her too?

I can see you trying to get on with your life with me gone.I'd hoped you would find happiness in the arms of someone nice who loves you and cares for you the way I did...but I never thought it would be with her. Don't go to her dear...not her please!

I wish I could live again!

The Push

2011-07-22T00:03:00.006+05:30

She knew she was turning her back from happiness... from the guy who had given her everything, love, hope, comfort, respect and ultimately freedom. She felt small, she wished she could shrink and hide somewhere.

He had made it easy for her.. giving her the push, the courage to admit her own feelings and finally letting her go. It killed him to see her go.

The pain pierced her insides and she was numbed, humbled by his sacrifice.She valued his love. She gathered the fragments of her broken heart. I'll live again. I promise.

The Amulet

2011-06-22T18:19:00.009+05:30

He sat there looking at the sea, the cool sea breeze blasting his face. He took in a deep breath.
The wind is a little strong. It might rain he thought. The sea looked murky as dark clouds gathered above and big waves crashed at the shore.

He loved coming to the beach every evening after work. It soothed him after the endless data crunching and the long client meets . He mostly came alone to just sit and observe; the sea, the people, the multitude emotions and the random activities.

He could see an old couple sitting together sharing a joke over a plate of bhel a little distance away from him. A boy was selling balloons to the kids who were gathered around him. He saw street urchins running behind the mobile ice cream van, the vendors selling various street food ,the elderly taking their evening strolls and people like him rushing back home.There was nothing unusual or interesting, but he was enjoying the humdrum.It was then a little girl ran up to him and begged for some money, " saabji kuch paise de do, khana hai". He absent mindedly took out a five rupee coin from his pocket and handed it over to her and looked the other way. He found it very awkward when kids came to him begging. He somehow felt guilty.

Some five minutes later he found the beggar girl coming his way, this time accompanied by another girl.The new girl was older and must have been about twelve or thirteen years while the younger one seemed to have been about eight. Both of them walked up to him. The younger one looked lost and sorry, and the elder one looked cross. They were sisters.The older girl asked the younger one to return the coin but the kid hesitated. The older girl then slapped her sister and took the coin from her hands and handed it back to him. "Saabji maaf karna, par hum bhikhari nahi hain." (Sorry sir, but we aren't beggars) They then turned and walked away.

He was taken aback by the suddenness of it all and couldn't react. But more, he was impressed by the small girl's self respect and honesty.He kept observing them. They went to the nearby traffic signal.The elder girl pacified the younger one. She took out some lemons, chillies and strands of copper wire from her bag and started weaving them into amulets. While the little one waited at the side sobbing, the elder girl took to the streets selling those amulets as a good luck charm to the cars. She sold each for five rupees and by the end of an hour she had sold some nine to ten of those charms.

She then bought ice creams from the mobile van for both of them and then both the kids happily licked away the ice lollies.

There was a smile on his face and a warmth flooded his heart. He got up and walked to them to get his amulet.

P.s. As narrated by my friend Chiranjiv. Thanks Chiru!

Androids and non Androids

2011-06-17T21:22:00.005+05:30

I was a little surprised by the conversation I'd with one of my cousins the other day. He's still in school. The discussion was on mobile phones, but it reflected the amount of consumerism in kids today.

"Congrats on your job, you treat's due." said my cousin.

"Thank you. You can have it anytime."

So how much are you getting?"

"Enough for my expenses and your treat" I replied looking up from my laptop and smiled.

He saw my phone lying on the table and said, " Hey you are earning now, it's high time you changed your cell phone."

"Why..what's wrong with this one? I'd got it last year."

" This is an outdated handset, you have to upgrade urself. You have to project a lifestyle,now that you are working. Why don't you get yourself a new phone?"

"Because I dont need one"

It was then, a friend updated on facebook, " Playing Angry Birds RIO on my new android phone"

I asked him what was all the fuss about android phones.He took out his high end 'android' phone.
I bought it six months back. It's got super cool apps. It's got awesome games. And most important, it's cool, he said.

He handed me his phone. "You should buy one", he said.

"But I don't play games.. and it's too expensive." I said while checking the mob.

"Then buy an iphone. You can pay in easy installments.Even I'm planning to buy one"

He then went on to explain me all the features of the phone for the next fifteen minutes like a trained salesman.

At the end of it, he seemed very happy with pitch."So, what have you decided?"

" My dear, the iphone seems nice.But I can't use half of the features and the rest half I don't need."

The disappointment was writ large upon his face. But he wasn't ready to give up yet.
" Alright, you wont buy one I know. But i'll let you use my android when I buy my iphone"

"You mean your dad buys you an iphone" I chuckled.

Gaye tum gaye ho kyun..

2011-04-25T15:45:00.003+05:30

This song stirs something inside... sums up my feelings at the moment.

Na aaye ho, na aaoge

Na dil dhale sataoge...

Gaye tum gaye ho kyun

Raat baaki hai

Gaye tum gaye ho kyun

Saath baaki hai

Gaye tum gaye, hum tham gaye

Har baat baki hai

Gaye kyun..toh jiye kyun!

Acceptance

2011-04-21T20:32:00.009+05:30

She had been waiting so long for this. It was a big day for her as he would finally acknowledge their relationship in front of his parents. She had put on a lighter shade of lipstick, kohled her eyes, combed her hair into a bun and put on her pearls. She wanted to look her best when she met them.

She looked at him nervously. He held her hands and smiled. She felt a little assured. It was almost time. She went to check herself in the mirror one more time. He went out to wait at the gate. They were there...Her parents!

Life ahoy!

2011-04-07T14:03:00.014+05:30

It's been a long time... Hoping you are doing well.I have been good too.

College finally ended. I got my degree and also got my picture taken in a black robe with yellow lace and blue hat with red danglers. I even went on a vacations to the Andaman Islands with my family. So you see there's lot that has been happening.

College was one place where I truly belonged. I felt untouched, unperturbed, free and happy. I was on my own. Everyone around was family. It was big enough for all but it was cozy all the same. I miss the feeling back at home. Of course, I am happy here but things are different now. The guy next door is different. I miss the familiar faces, the smiles, the evening breeze, the night mess, the late night walks... When it was time for the goodbyes I had accepted and prepared myself for the change. But it doesn't seem so easy always. I hate the routine, the drudgery that has set in. I stay in touch with my friends on fb and on chat engines but I know it's a matter of time till we all choose our ways... and it's no longer 'us'.

As a kid, I always wanted to grow up so that I can handle all my problems. Funny thing, I still want to grow up. Right now I feel I'm stuck in the doldrums. I have a lot of time to think and reflect. Instead I end up worrying about things I cant do much about..and I'm not liking it. There's a part of me that can't wait to start working so that I get busy all over again, but then sometimes I just want to give up everything and enjoy life .I hope these feelings pass.

Anyway coming back to my trip, Andaman is a great place- lots to see and explore. It was a tropical dream for me. The climate's humid though it gets cooler in the night. The littoral forests, the mangroves, the coral beaches and the many islands make Andaman ideal for a vacation. It's got historical and military significance too. I explored Port Blair city and the Cellular jail there before moving over to Ross and Viper Islands. At North Bay there are the coral reefs and I went snorkeling. It was fun. There are boat rides too for the less adventurous where they can see the colorful corals through the glass bottom of the boat. There's also a light house in the island which you can spot on a Rs. 20 note.

Our next trip was to the south of the Andaman Islands through thick reserved forests. We were on our way to Bartang to spot the Jarwas, a primitive tribe. From there we were to go on ferry rides through thick man-grooves to an island where we would trek to see the limestone caves. The trip would be finally complete with a visit to an active volcano in mud island. We had an early start to the day because we had to reach a police check post by 6 am from where we were to be escorted by the police personnel . When we reached the check post, we found a long convoy of tourist vehicles waiting to get past the forests.

We were lucky to spot many Jarwas. They are still very close to nature. They went about their way sometimes stopping to look at us. After crossing the forests we waited to be carried in a boat to another island. I had never seen buses and taxis get on a boat before. From there, we went on a small ferry on a hour long boat ride to another island, deep in the man-grooves. The boat ride was amazing. Then we started on the 3kms hike to the limestone caves. It was a little tiring but the effort was worth the while. I tried taking some pics of the stalactites and stalagmites. The caves were pitch black and I fortunately was carrying a torch. We had to return soon because we had to leave through the grooves before the high tide.

Our next trip was to an active volcano at Mud Island. That was another 1.5 kms up the hill. Along the way there were signages that read, " Be careful, you are walking on an active volcano". I felt the earth, it was hot. I eagerly climbed up. But it turned out to be a disappointment. Atop was a small hole spewing ashen mud similar to molten cement... and it was cold. Anyway I clicked some pics and headed down to have some nice coconut water.

Next on our itinerary was 'Havelock Island' famous for its white sand and clear blue waters. The 2 hour cruise to Havelock from Port Blair was a wonderful experience. Once at Havelock we headed for the 'Radha Nagar' beach. The beach was so beautiful and so inviting that I headed straight for the waters. After waddling in the water for a long time, we cleaned up and headed for some tasty seafood at the 'Barefoot' restaurant there. Fortunately at almost all beaches in Andaman there are good changing room facilities. One can even get swimming gear on rent. That was a wonderful way to spend our last day there.

That evening we explored Port Blair some more. We visited the Chatam Saw mill, which is Asia's biggest saw mill. We witnessed the light and sound show at the Cellular jail. It was a moving experience. The painful narrative of the lives of the freedom fighters imprisoned there stirred our souls. We next headed to ' Sagarika' which is the govt. run souvenir shop. One can get lots of souvenirs there. Sadly it shuts early in the eve by 7.00 pm, so many tourists miss the shopping experience. There's also an aquarium in Port Blair where one can see a variety of sea life. It's a little hard for vegetarians in Port Blair with only one pure veg cafeteria in the entire city. But the food is good otherwise. One can find many Bengali restaurants and South Indian joints.

Our next stop was at Chennai where I caught p with one of my best friends. We explored Pondicherry, Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram in the next two days before we headed home. Altogether it was a great experience.

This has been a long letter already. I loved sharing my experience with you and I feel much better now then when I had started off. Until next time.

Love,

Illeen

P.S. : My post card for you guys!

Happy Endings

2011-01-24T15:02:00.010+05:30

Everytime I blog these days is only when I'm reminded that I have a blog. Today I caught up online with an old blogger friend and before signing off he refered to me as Miss Short story which set me thinking...and this is how here I am posting.It's a little sad because somewhere I feel the passion to write, missing inside.It could be because I have chosen a 'less complex' life for myself and I have no real life inspirations to write about or maybe I am just too lazy.

I'm happy with my life now, more at ease and more at peace. I am done with my love for the complicated. Though I dont miss that, my 'complex confused' life was fun. Of course, it was tiresome but it fuelled my creativity. I started this blog after a hurtful relationship.I had a lot to let out. And then I took inspirations from not just my story but from the lives of my close friends. Four years and few relationships later I read some of my old posts and smile.Yes, I have grown up. Some of the stories I had written did actually come true. Every relationship, no matter how brief, had something nice to offer. Even if sometimes it ended with people getting hurt, when I look back I do find some nice memories.

This is how things finally end for some of my favourite characters:

Ryan finally found someone he loved. He's waiting for her answer now. He called me up to tell me, how it feels to be on the other side waiting...I wished him all the best!

Ryan and Liz

Daniel is now engaged. Elly is happy for him.

Surpises

Riya was finally with Al after six long years. Even though they didn' last long, Riya was happy to have her 'story' complete. Long distance relationships still doesn't work.

Riya and Al

Devil, the erstwhile poet with a will is doing good for himself. He's

smart but a little stuck up. Angel needn't worry about him anymore, she has grown up and so has the devil. She knows, the devil can take care of himself. Goodbye, Devil.

Angels and Demons

Liz met this amazing guy when she had become cynical of love. The guy persisted, loved and cared...and now she hopes it's for real and for ever and for always.

Undelivered

To Ruskin Bond

2010-12-03T17:07:00.011+05:30

It's been long that I had been on my blog.. I had come to believe I couldn't write anymore. Often when I would sit to write I would be disturbed in the middle, as a result I have lots of posts drafted which I could never complete.

I spent my birthday with Max after three long years. Fortunately, she happened to be in town around that time.We had lunch together and then she took me along to buy my gift.I had to be back for my afternoon class in some 20 minutes.So I took a quick call and decided to buy a recipe book from the Oxford's bookstore in the same complex. Inside, while looking for the cook books section, I ended up scanning the section on fiction which was on the way. My eyes fell upon a Ruskin Bond book in one of the racks and I picked it up.Max asked me if I wanted to take it. I refused and proceeded to the cookbook section. There I picked up a Good food magazine on 101 cheap eats.I'd made my choice. Max wasn't convinced though. So she picked up a cocktail and appetizers book which she knew would be more useful and on the way to the counter, she also picked up the Ruskin Bond book.

I tried to dissuade her from buying me the book by saying I didn't get much time to read. "Oh I'm sure, you will find time to read this one. Hopefully you'll start writing again too" she said. Best friends know what makes your heart tick. I have always enjoyed reading Ruskin Bond and have tried imitating him in my writings.

The book "friends in small places" is a compilation of short stories inspired by the lives of people Bond knew and who had a lasting impression on him. Reading the book made me nostalgic of all the Ruskin Bond books I had read as a child. I had loved Rusty, the spooky horror tales of Mussorie, the kite maker and many others. In this book Bond shares his relationship with his father, his mother, grandmother, his relatives, his teacher,his servant, his neighbours and some interesting people who gave him the meat for his stories. The stories have humor, heartwarming affection, love, lust, jealousy, innocence, honesty, friendship, loyalty, kindness; emotions that make them real and humane. Sometimes they have an undertone of philosophy on the goodness of life.

Some of my favourite ones from this book are Masterji, Keemat Lal, My father and I, Uncle Ken, his neighbour's wife, Somi and Rusty, Kishan Singh, Bhabiji,Bansi and the ayah, The Kitemaker and the Sensualist. I keep coming back to them everynight.

I guess this post would not be here but for my love for Ruskin Bond. Thank you Max.
Cheers to you Mr Bond!!

MP trip

2010-09-06T02:08:00.010+05:30

And I'm back from one more trip, this time from Nayagarh. From the time the trip was suggested I wasn't too keen on it. The trip was rescheduled thrice making me lose all interest. Our seniors had forewarned us on the trip and its arrangements. Moreover, Nayagarh is a malaria belt and I wasn't doing too well. So I'd all the reasons not to want to go for the trip. Anyway I went for this one.. and like all my trips this was again an unique experience.

Upon reaching there we found that the arrangements for stay was not all that good. Many of us were crammed in small rooms.We tried to cheer ourselves up by cracking jokes as we geared up for work, the next morning.

After a difficult night we woke up to a dull rainy morning.Our work involved prepaing micro plans for some of the tribal hamlets in Nuagaon block. With all the rain we were a little worried as to how we would complete our survey. The drive was beautiful. There was greenery all around.. green fields, green hills and green water (or so it looked). It pepped me up. We passed through sal forests, corn fields, sugarcane patches and mango grooves. The clouds floated above and kissed the hills. As we climbed up, we were driving through them.Ladies carried timber wood on their heads and walked up the hills.

My destination was at Simlisahi, a small GP of Nuagaon block. There were thirty odd households of the Goria Kandh tribe. Our first stop was at the Sarpanch's house. I talked to her for some time to gather some primary information about the village. She was shy and had no knowledge of the post she held or her roles and responsibilites. But she had a nice smile which she gave us everytime we asked her a question. So we decided to go to the field and get data ourselves. We tried to look for the Village level workers and the Anganwadi workers. We found them busy distributing grains at the primary school.PDS was going on in the village school and there was a huge queue in front of it. We decided to get some secondary data from the GP office.The GP office failed to give us any useful data . They said that we'd to collect all the data from the block office, even the population of the village.

We had to go to the fields to talk to the farmers because most of them were busy working in the fields, this being the cultivation season. We exchanged greetings and started talking to them about their life trying to find their resources, problems and needs.They cooperated as much but even they seemed uninterested talking about their problems. I wondered if they sniggered at the sincerity of the 'city breds' to understand their problems which stared them at the face.

After we were done with the survey, we as a group sat down and started discussing about interventions, market linkages, agricultural improvements that could better their lives. Everyone was busy chipping in ideas that would look good on our report, or so I thought. It made me skeptical about the whole process of micro planning which depended entirely on people's participation. It was unfair to ask a person to participate in the planning processing when he can barely make two square meals a day.

While I was resting and contemplating the purpose of the trip and the futility of it all, an old man came up to me. He was the school headmaster and was a revered figure in the village. Because of him many girls of the village were now going to school.We engaged in a conversation on the people and their problems. He talked about his experiences and the difficulties he had to face before bringing about any positive change.At one point, I asked him if he saw hypocricy in our efforts .He said "Students come over to study the problems of rural India. Half of them don't understand the problems and propose fanciful plans that dont have a stem in reality. And the other half are skeptics trying to sneer at any efforts that could bring about a change. Neither helps the cause. " He stopped before adding, "To bring about a change, one has to have an open mind and a strong heart. It's easy to be skeptical. If you want , you can. But, would you?" he asked smilingly.

I nodded my head and looked away trying to see beyond the beauty of the hills. The clouds were clearing over the hills..and in my mind too.

Becoming Jane

2010-09-02T17:12:00.005+05:30

She shut her eyes.. but memories kept flashing by just like a photographer's reel .. it seemed like ages had passed. She felt old..already

She had shunned him from her life and from her thoughts and lived in the present. She had closed the chapters from past and closed her eyes to her future. She thought she was Jane.. no, she had begin to believe she was Jane.. if only she could write.

She opens her eyes and sighs. She is happy on her own.. or so she believes.

Dawn@XIMB

2010-07-29T11:40:00.006+05:30

I had forgotten mornings can be really beautiful..especially after the rains. Last few days here, it had been raining day in and day out. So the other night when I set out from the library towards my room it was still dark. The rains had stopped but there was a hint of a drizzle.It was somewhere around 4.30 am. As I walked down the road, I could see the street lights glow at a distance creating a golden blur. The black road all wet, glistened in the dark..The campus was silent.There was a slight chill and the air was fragrant.

The road was empty with couple of street dogs standing in front of the ladies hall, which was up the road.As I passed through the gents residence I saw some lights on..I also heard a few laughs, conversations and chuckles going on in one wing of the hostel..probably the fag end of a party. Some where from one of the hostel rooms floated a romantic melody that filled the surrounding.

The overall effect that was created by the lights, the music and the rains was very beautiful and very soothing. I sat on the steps of my hostel for sometime soaking in the cool morning air. The voices died down in sometime.. and the campus was once again silent.

It was the start of a beautiful day..!

Photography courtesy Prabir Barooah

Dilly Delhi

2010-06-18T09:14:00.017+05:30

My two months stint at Delhi is finally over and I'm back home. Though it's always the best feeling to be home, I miss Delhi that had been my home albeit for a brief time. It was my first stay outside for so long.

My uncle received me at the New Delhi Railywa station and I spent my first day at his spacious quarters in South Delhi. It is a nice complex with lots of greenery around and I immediately took a liking to it. Since the next day was my first day at office, my uncle decided to drop me off. On way, I kept checking landmarks to find my way back home. My uncle pointed out the Pragati Maidan metro stration from where I was to commute everyday onwards.I registered that in my mind. After some time,we sensed a strong stench and I had the first view of the dirty Yamuna. Then we entered East Delhi and I saw the narrow lanes of Laxmi Nagar and Shakarpur, a stark contrast to South Delhi and it's wide roads. These were market areas and people were seaming from all sides. My office was at Preet Vihar,two stations away.Upon reaching I found I was one hour early to office. So I strolled along the lanes checking out shops. Delhi was heating up like a frying pan that has just been put on the stove.By noon, the pan was all heated up when I and my two other college freinds who were interning with me decided to go out for lunch. When we returned I thought I got a stroke. Anyway initial days in Delhi were terrible but soon got acclimatized to it.

Next day began on a little wrong note. I was running late to office and to make things worse I got on the wrong metro and landed up at Akshardham. Initially I panicked, but then recomposed myself. I picked up one of the metro booklets and took a metro back to Yamuna bank where one of my friends had come to pick me up.Relief. My boss was happy I got lost and said thats a learning. Somebody in office was kind enough to get me a Delhi road map.

The rest few days were spent scouting for a good accomodation near to my office. It was tough and my friends were a big help then. The three of us finally landed up a place in Kadkaduma, the next metro station. Having a house to nestle,things slowly began to fall in place. Soon we were travelling to Uttar Pradesh and other areas. I also got used to getting up the escalators, travelling in the metro and going around Delhi. We explored Delhi- seeing places, trying its food and scanning its markets.

Towards the end of the first month, my mother decided to pay me a visit.I was overjoyed. Mom meant good food. I ner really used the kitchen other than making the occasional breakfast. Days spent with mom were good. I got a break from eating outside, especially from the dollops of butter.I even used to carry my tiffin to office. I realized carrying food to office helps one socialize faster.Mom didn't like travelling much and spent most of the time indoors. One evening I decided to take her to the nearest mall. We returned early after checking out the ground floor because like me my mom also avoided escalators.

Things went smooth till a day before she was to leave when she felt the place very spooky and unsafe. No matter how much I reasoned she was not convinced. One shuldn't argue with moms because one can never win and its a lot safer if one didn't. So began my arduos task of looking for another PG. Unortunately this time I'd to do it all alone because my college friends were out touring and I was attached to the office. Anyway, with a little help from a colleague, I found myself a girls PG at a walking distance from office. It had a wide road and park right infront. It also had many eating joints within walking distance. My mom was happy when she left, and thats what mattered.

Office was fun and I got a very interesting project to work on. I befriended the girls in the PG.Soon my friends returned from their tour.Our mentor was our college alumnus and he took care of us really well, taking us out to wine and dine. There were also some new joinees in office and we gelled up real fast. Soon we were spending a lot of time together- shopping,hanging out or simply lazing around. I got sloshed too on one occasion. It was fun though. Most importantly it was the presence of friends around who made Delhi suddenly come to life.I caught up with my old school friends some of whom I knew from kindergarten. I also met my old school crush. I felt as if years had passed but nothing had changed.

Last few days in Delhi, the weather turned romantic.There were slight drizzles but mostly it was cloudy. Those were my best times at Delhi. The office threw us an official farewell towards the end of our internship.The park had become a part of my evenings. I spent time watching the kids play, couples talking and the healthy guy taking his evening walks. Sometimes I had company, sometimes I didn't. But I found the place very soothing.

On the morning of my last day at Delhi the weather was perfect for an outing. My friend, the old crush decided to take me to Purana Quila.Being a die hard romantic, I loved the place. The fort, the ruins, the alleys brought alive the scenes of Love Aaj Kal in my mind. We spent time looking around and talking. In the silence of the morning, the cool breeze acted as a tranquilizer. Finally,I returned promising to stay in touch. I also bid farewell to my office and PG friends and handed them small souvenirs I had got for them. As I boarded my afternoon flight, I was happy to be back home but I also knew I would miss Delhi and the people who made it so beautiful for me.

Playing games

2010-06-16T08:46:00.015+05:30

She lay on the bed, facing the ceiling,her fingers locked in his. It had been a long night,strange and beautiful. She was lost in the sublimity of the night and tried not reading into his thoughts or her own.

They had met as strangers and played a game, a battle of words.She played it with fervour.He smilingly entertained her. They kept playing,each trying to outwit the other.There were laughs,smiles,teases,silences and messages conveyed through the eyes.

The night was giving away to dawn and the battle was drawing to an end. Occasional words punctuated the silence between them. She was getting tired and he was being captured.She laid down besides him, trying to keep up the fight.His fingers played with her hair that was falling across her face before slowly finding their place between her fingers.When the game ended he was tired, but he had won and she was captured.

She looked back from the ceiling to him. She knew there would be nothing more to the game.He opened his half drowsy eyes and looked into hers. They smiled.

Time flies..

2010-05-28T10:43:00.004+05:30

Time flies so fast.. I remark because I suddenly realized it.
Yesterday I had a lot of free time and I went nostalgic looking back at how the past one year had been.

Last year, this time I was a mess recovering from my accident.. Then Bschool happened,probably the best thing till date.. I made new friends and left behind a few.. I partied.. I partied harder. I travelled.Stayed in villages. Met people.Talked to them.Laughed with them.Experienced freedom. Valued Independence. Struggled. Adjusted.Learnt to say "NO".. Let go.Held on.

Two months in Delhi.. and I have got used to the heat, the crowd and the food.. I like it now.
But I miss my college..the life, the friends, the long walks, the french toasts at 4 am, the block parties, the JLTs, the wind, the rains, the music ...and I also missed blogging. I guess once I pass out next year, I'll be missing all this more, and probably I'll be writing about this again too..

Till then..happy nostalgia.. :)

Saving Pvt Ryan

2010-04-06T19:33:00.007+05:30

Hey, you came all the way to say goodbye?

Hmm.. I didn't sleep, lest I missed your train.

Sweet..!

He dished his hands into the bag and got out a DVD. Saving Pvt. Ryan.

Your all time(stressed) favourite movie on orkut and FB. Thoda sharam karo aur dekh lo.

She looked at him and grinned.

_______________________________________________

PS: M @ Delhi now..my home for the next two months :)

The missing link

2010-03-21T12:43:00.004+05:30

How long had it been,she didn't quite remember. She kept reading the lines and smiled. She could smell the rain, picture the sky and feel the wind... rewinding time for some moments. Illusions are beautiful.Being someone's muse was beautiful.

She looked outside and stretched her hands to feel the rain. It was a love forgotten.

Global warming and rural India

2010-03-20T11:41:00.007+05:30

It's been close to a year now since I joined my MBA programmee in rural management. In the past one year, I have traveled extensively in Odisha and stayed in the villages, sometimes for a month at a stretch. The whole idea of all the field tours was to get a feel of how India lives in its villages and to address issues beyond poverty and illiteracy. Many of us friends had their upbringing in towns and cities, so the only village experience known to us were the holiday visits to our grand parents' homes. But these trips were different. We stayed in the village as a villager.. in it's mud huts, without electricity, without proper drinking water and without any sanitation facilities. I have decided to post my experiences in the different villages under the label travel diaries. In this post, I would like to share my experiences in Kendrapada, a district in the coastal district of Odisha in the context of how climate change can affect our villages.

Kendrapada district is one of the poorest districts of the state, even though it's in the coastal region.In the village of Ollapada , we met families ravaged by the cyclone of 1999 and grappling with that even after a decade. People mainly live on fishing as the soil is saline and not suitable for cultivation. The marginal families live on an income of below 10,000 per annum. Most of them are daily wage earners and migrant laborers.There's no electricity and no sweet drinking water. The ponds are saline and of the three tube wells in the village, two lie defunct.

In Satyabhaya village, the sea has engulfed half of the village in the last 5 years. A tube well that once stood in the middle of the village, now stands on the end.With growing incidence of cyclones and floods in the area, the soil has been virtually rendered un cultivable.

The stories were same in the other villages like Betabellary, christian pada etc. The question that raises here is why Kendrapada which would have hardly seen any green house emissions suffering because of global climate change ? Is it paying the price for the emissions that are produced to provide comfort to the cities?

I would like to share with you a documentary, Climate's First Orphans, that talks about the price places like Kendrapada are paying for the "development" we are making. It's a matter of time before the tables are turned.

Of monkeys and apes...

2010-03-18T18:58:00.003+05:30

Happy birthday to you..

Happy birthday dear monkey

Happy birthday to you.

you were born in the zoo

many monkeys miss you

happy birthday dear monkey

happy birthday to you !!

(in pic.. monkey birthday cakes..)

A little less conversation..

2010-02-05T16:51:00.004+05:30

I have a cold.. sneeze

snore

I think I got it from you..hell!

snore

Lemme go and get some fresh air. Sleeping in the afternoon was not such a great idea.

snore

Wanna come?

snore

Gadhe ke tarah kya soye ho, utho!

snore

Thik hai..I'm going with Jay and Mayu. We'll go and watch a movie. Then we will go shopping, and from there probably to Sheela's place as well.

snore

Taking your credit card.

snore

Paise hain na?

snore

Acha, tonight we are going to Ritu's wedding.

Snore

Fine.See you at 9 then. Taiyyar rehna.

snore

And please do the dishes.

snore

Ah, I love it when you are sleeping.. (grins). Bye honey.

snore

Undelivered

2010-01-06T22:59:00.006+05:30

I give you flowers because I believe them to be tender. Tender here is the words of soul for all my heart and feelings revolve around it. It’s the way I feel for you. I love you beyond my capacity to understand. But you are oblivious to the fact.

I give you flowers because they make you smile and that smile is worth every effort that I would love to make, just so I may see that one chirpy smile for the rest of……

I give you flowers so you may know that this is how I feel for you. I believe that flowers speak a language that transcends the boundaries of all languages. I pray someday you too would see that. I know that you don’t love me, nor do you understand the intensity with which I love you.

These roses are meant to make your day, even though I burn here, sometimes of jealousy and sometimes just out of the pain of being oblivious in your life. I know that you have some doors of the past you haven’t closed. The ones that make my life more difficult, that distance you from me. Would you shut out the others?

I know not what prevents you from closing those doors, is it the pleasure of the chase or the hunt or Is it some skewed sense of thirst for inconsequential power? I know not.

The roses I send come with their thorns, and they speak for me when they come to you. Underneath the tenderness of the wild rose lies the thorn that speaks of the pain when you act oblivious to my love. But the thorns aren’t meant for you, they are for me. They stay invisible to you underneath the tender moistened roses which are solely meant for you. They are true in their words that I care for you in ways you will probably never understand. All I can do is send this message through flowers and hope that you, someday, might understand.

Love

Maximus

He folded the letter and kept it in his pocket.It has been five days since he has been sending her the flowers. And it has been five days of joy for him, every time he saw her face light up. The roses were beautiful, and so was she. Would she know, he never knew.. it didn't matter.

Love all

2009-11-21T11:24:00.002+05:30

She saw the ball shuttling across the court.This set is probably going to be on for long.She watched the players wince,moan, groan. She felt high. She could feel the pulse within her. She could feel her heart pound.

There was a knock on the door and a nurse entered, "Monica , it's time to sleep."

Letter from a blogger

2009-10-14T07:28:00.003+05:30

Dear all

Though I was tempted to write a post, I have been controlling the urge for a long time now.This is my 100th post and today marks the end of my two years in blogsville..

I feel nostalgic today.How a blog which started out as a place for some silly poems and a creative space for my stories became a part of my life.i still remember i was enthralled at the first comment on my post..There were many people I came across through this blog.. some went ..some stayed back..some joined.I have made friends here as well.It has been an exciting and delightful journey so far.

Of course,off late i am getting a little less time to post.But ne'rtheless whenever i see an unpublished comment waiting for me,it lights me up.This post is for all those loving and encouraging people who took time off to leave a comment.You have always helped me grow with encouraging words, and even sometimes with a critical remark.To all my readers who added to the hit count,THANK YOU.A special word of thanks to all those delightful people whose blogs have made me laugh,cry,reflect.It has been a great learning experience!

Nothing more to add...I love you all.And would wish you the best in life.

To all my blogger friends..keep posting!

Cheers!
Illeen

Cherry

2009-09-28T18:35:00.007+05:30

She looked at the empty hostel corridors.The rooms were all locked.The girls had left for their homes for the vacations.She had chosen to stay back.

The light at the other end of the corridor flickered waiting its death.The wind that blew across the open spaces produced a whistling sound.The eeriness was turning her on.The more she feared,the more she felt a tingling sensation within.

She paced gently towards the dead end of the corridor.Her breath growing deeper with each pace.She could feel an excitement build within her.She started unbuttoning her blouse.She could see her dark figure in the mirror hung on the wall as she approached She was losing a grip on her senses.

She looked at herself in the mirror.Her clothes were lying on the floor.She stared at her naked self and looked on with admiration.She could feel somebody's gaze upon her.She couldn't know from where..The light suddenly went out.The air around her became heavy.She could hear somebody's breath closing upon her.She felt overpowered by his presence.She could feel somebody's touch but couldn't see him.There was no silhouette just a force that was making her go mad with pleasure.She moaned as she laid on the floor twisting.Her passion was reaching a peak.She shouted..

The watchman and the warden ran up the stairs.They rushed to Eva's room.She wasn't there.

At the dead end of the corridor near the mirror,were drops of blood and a red cherry.

The boy next door

2009-09-19T13:00:00.005+05:30

As a kid I enjoyed watching movies like home alone,baby's day out,kindergarten cop.I was in splits when I saw smart kids drive the nuts out of the adults. But then I grew up.Things changed.Now I have a kid next door.And he's driving me mad.

My parents love him.All neighbors love him.His parents dote on him.. I hate him.

And as it is,he always chooses my place for his hangouts.Though I pretend not to hear his knocks on my door,it's not possible with my parents around.So in he comes and heads straight to my room.If I am around I make sure I keep him off my room.But if I ain't,he takes full liberty.Jumping on my clean bed sheet with his dirty feet,littering my room with his toys,drinking water from my bottle and spilling it on my bed,leaving sketch pens open on my dress,fidgeting with my stuff,drawing on the walls...I mean how can u keep everything off his limits?

And to all my complains i get to hear,"he's just a kid.."
So these days I keep my room locked from inside.

______________________________________________

Today I was at home filling in the details of an online form when i heard the door bell ring.
It was Jojo and his mom.
"Hello.Are you busy?I had to ask you of a favour"she asked.
"Please"I said smilingly.
"I have to go to the doctor.Can't take Jojo along.Would you care for him till I return?It wont take more than an hour."
I looked at the boy and I wanted to say no.
"Sure"
"Sorry to bother you.But Mrs Das isn't home."She said pointing at my neighbour's door.
"Thats fine.We'll have fun."I said trying to sound cheerful.
"Thank you.."she said as she left.

I didn't know what to do with him.I gave him some papers and my old crayons.
"Draw here and dont move."I said firmly.

I went back to my work.I got a draft to fill in the details for some MBA form I was applying online. There was a knock on the door.I looked at the kid.He was busy drawing a duck.I left the draft on my computer table which was a little high for him to reach.

It was the electrician who had come over for some minor repairs.When I entered my room some 10 mins later,I found his head full of foam and he rubbing his head.I found my bottle of moisturizer spilled on the floor with half of the contents on his head.I was trying to get a hold of the situation when my eyes fell on the draft.Drawn on it were hills,sun,houses with the crayons i had given him.

I looked on with horror and shouted,"JOJO.."

I immediately regretted.His eyes welled up and his face contorted.And then he let out a loud bawl.Now this again is something I can't handle..kids crying at the top of their voices.It took me another 15 -20 mins just to cool him down.I coaxed him with chocolates and when he finally sobered down I convinced him to let me wash his hair.

When his mother arrived some 2 hours later,Jojo had already invaded my computer and was happy watching some cartoon on it.I wished to tell her how much of a trouble he had been.But she looked tensed and upset.I got her a glass of water.She broke down.I moved closer.I coudn't understand.

Amidst sobs she said Jojo has got leukemia and doctors are doubtful of his recover.

It shook me.I looked at the kid happily playing.I felt my heart ache.It was painful.I felt anger within..I hated myself.

__________________________

Jojo passed away yesterday.
My heart still aches.

Hey there Delilah!

2009-08-16T09:59:00.004+05:30

I ve been listening to the song over and over since last evening.And I have been soaking to every word of it.The lyrics is simple but connects.Hope you enjoy!

Hey there Delilah what's it like in New York City
I'm a thousand miles away
But girl tonight you look so pretty, yes you do
Times Square can't shine as bright as you, I swear it's true

Hey there Delilah don't you worry about the distance
I'm right there if you get lonely give this song another listen
Close your eyes, listen to my voice it's my disguise
I'm by your side

Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
What you do to me

Hey there Delilah, I know times are getting hard
But just believe me girl, someday I'll pay the bills with this guitar
We'll have it good, we'll have the life we knew we would
My word is good

Hey there Delilah, I've got so much left to say
If every simple song I wrote to you
Would take your breath away, I'd write it all
Even more in love with me you'd fall, we'd have it all

Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me

A thousand miles seems pretty far
But they've got planes and trains and cars
I'd walk to you if I had no other way
Our friends would all make fun of us
And we'll just laugh along because we know
That none of them have felt this way

Delilah I can promise you
That by the time that we get through
The world will never ever be the same
And you're to blame

Hey there Delilah
You be good and don't you miss me
Two more years and you'll be done with school
And I'll be making history like I do

You'll know it's all because of you
We can do whatever we want to
Hey there Delilah here's to you
This one's for you

Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
Oh it's what you do to me
What you do to me..

The Umbrella

2009-08-01T21:18:00.005+05:30

He watched her from the tea stall.She was walking down fast, with a stack of books in her hands.The sky was overcast and a cool breeze was blowing.Locks of hair played on her face when the wind blew across.Her eyebrows were a little furrowed,the only creases on her pretty face.Her gaze was lowered as she hurried on her way to the hostel.It suddenly started to drizzle.The rain drops on her skin glittered.He couldn't help but smile..She is so beautiful !

Just then she looked up and found him smiling.She was amused and gave him an awkward smile.He was caught unprepared and shifted his eyes.A moment later when he looked her way,he saw a guy run up to her and offer his umbrella.He saw her face lighting up.There was a smile much wider and more beautiful than the one she had given him.He watched both of them walk down to the hostel.She thanked him and went inside.The guy looked too happy.

How much he regretted not buying an umbrella!

@Everyone here..Happy Friendship Day!!love you loads.
NB::@RM1 boys,Guys..please get your own umbrellas. :P

Ramblings

2009-07-19T02:36:00.003+05:30

This is one silly post.It's 2.30 am.I am back from the audi and i write this because i am happy.I wish I could create a build up and make things appear fanciful.But I can't.

How would you feel if you rediscover something about yourself which you thought had died in you?
How does it feel when you stress yourself hard and get an answer right?
How does it feel when you are up the stage quizzing?

Yes..It feels great.Anyone who knows me from a really long time would know what I am talking of.Not many who know me from that time read this blog.But if anyone of them read,they would know exactly what I am talking of.I wonder if Illuminati is reading this.

Well for the quiz..we were the team that came in last.But we did get some answers right.And we were the only girls on stage.*grins*But truth be told,I have met many great quizzers and some of them girls.So it doesn't matter much to me.

Anyway..nothing more to ramble about at this hour.I have been grinning a lot actually.Thanks Anki.

Gnite people!

PS..I haven't been able to find time to blog for more than 2 weeks now and I am suddenly back with a post..ah excuse my excitement!

Avenge

2009-07-03T12:03:00.005+05:30

She didn't know her father's number.She couldn't call him.Even the auto wallah wouldn't be there till the next 3 hours.Her friends had slowly started to leave.Their parents were coming to pick them up.She looked up at the sky.It was about to rain.

I wish mom was here !

She was the only one left now.The teacher asked her if anybody would come to pick her up.She had nodded absently.She heard her teacher grumble about her dad.They waited some more time.Finally her teacher had left her in charge of the peon..

Every time she thought of that incident she had shivers running her spine.Even 20 years later,she couldn't forget the way she was exploited by that peon.She had cried a lot and had been hushed to silence by him.He had threatened her not to tell anyone.And she hadn't.Today when she had seen the marks on her daughter's body, she had understood.Her daughter had broken down in her arms.She had cried along with her,hugged her and comforted her.Finally her daughter had fallen asleep in her arms.

Next morning her maid came running and said that the guard had been found dead in his cabin.Someone had castrated him before killing him.She rushed to the spot.The entire neighbourhood was there.She let out a shriek on seeing all the gore and rushed inside her house.She latched her room.She looked at her sleeping daughter and smiled.

The gift

2009-06-24T13:47:00.003+05:30

Anita sat down tired.It had been a long day for her.She had traveled thousands of miles to reach home in time.But then her last leg of flight from the Delhi airport to Hyderabad had been cancelled.The Airline authorities had offered to refund her money back.But that was out of question.She had taken time off her busy schedule so that she could be home for her best friend,Priya's wedding,the next morning.Finally after a lot of requests,the airline people had agreed to offer her a seat in the morning flight.

She scrolled through the contacts list of all the people who she knew were in Delhi.She badly needed the comforts of a home where she could put up for the night.She already had a jet lag and badly wanted to stretch herself.She had heard from her friends in India that Delhi wasn't a safe place for girls.So she thought it wise to stay with some relative or friend.

She went through the entire list.She found numbers of one of her old school friends and a distant uncles,who she had never met.When she was 10,her family had moved to the States.She had fallen in love with the place.Her parents had set up their own business there and were doing very well.In the last 15 years she had never visited India.She had gone off to finish her studies there.She had met Priya during her PG days and they had become the best of friends.Priya had returned to India after her studies.

She had lost touch with her old school friends.She hadn't ever talked to her uncle.She was a lil unsure on who to ask for help.Unable to make up her mind she decided to call up her uncle.

Hello uncle.Anita here.

Hello..who?

Anita.Your cousin Rajiv's daughter.

Who?Which Rajiv?

She was embarrased.Here was a person who didn't recall his father.

Well..

Before she could complete,her uncle spoke.

Look Beta.Your father in the last 15 years hasn't even given us a ring.Whenever he was in town he would prefer staying in a hotel than staying with us.Rajiv and I used to be the best of friends at one time.But things have changed so much.For me he is as good as a stranger now.

Anita was stunned.She could feel the bitterness in his voice.She didn't know how to approach him anymore.She suddenly felt so guilty.

There was silence for sometime before she spoke.

I'm so sorry uncle.I know how you must have felt.I have no excuses or explanations to offer on behalf of my father.But I can tell you,I am sincerely sorry for that.

Saying so,she hung up.She took a cab and checked into a nearby hotel.All the while she was lost in thoughts.She had hoped to get a warm welcome here.But things had been so different.She didn't blame anybody,she couldn't.She realized the pain of losing a friend.She felt guilty for not staying in touch with her old school friends.She thought of all the good times she had with them as a child.

She laid in her bed tired.She decided to call that old school friend of her.

Hello said the voice at the other end of the receiver.

Ratna?

Yes.Who is this?

Anita.Rem the tall girl in the class at St Xaviers school?

Oh my god!Anita..what a surprise..!Where had you been?I hadn't heard from you for a long time now.Your calls and mails have dwindled too.Where are you calling from?

So many questions.okay okay.I'm in town.Can I meet you?There's a lot to catch up.

Oh..at this hour?

I don't have a problem.I can come down.

No..You don't worry.Just tell me where you are put.I shall come over to meet you.I have to introduce you to my husband too.

Oh wow..congratulations.So you are married.

They talked for some more time.After she hung up,Anita had a big smile on her face.She felt a certain peace.The guilt was off her chest.She took out an Italian vase which she had got from abroad and put it a box.This was going to be her gift to her friend.

Yours truly

2009-06-20T23:09:00.005+05:30

This is a quickie.. Lot has been happening around.My days in a B school have started and since the day I have joined I have had endless lecture sessions.Worse,after a long inactive spell it's all the more hard for me.At the end of each day I feel drained both physically and mentally.I have probably lost a kilo or so in the past one week.It's terrible for some one who is already on her way to become anorexic.And the worst thing is I am unable to access net in a place where there's unlimited internet access.Blame it on some problem in my laptop.I hate LENOVO.The service sucks :(

Anyway in the midst of it all I am back home for the night.(It's a little sad,being in the same city I have to stay in the college hostel.Kya karen..compulsory hai!)When I checked my mails I found this caricature of mine ready.I'd almost forgotten about it.And I was all smiles..I look funny.Hehe.Isn't it great?It's by a friend Amrit,who does caricatures for free..maybe it's his way of giving back to the society.Thank you so much mate!

Btw,you too can request your caricature here.

You people have a great time..and keep dropping hi and hellos from time to time.I shall be back in your blogs soon !!

Rajo

2009-06-15T20:29:00.012+05:30

There are lots of things on my mind now.I have a lot to rant about actually.My orkut id's been hacked(who is SO unemployed to HACK my id? ..bugger),my new laptop's showing problems,it's mid June and there's no rain and I'm leaving for hostel in two days.So these thoughts have pulled my spirits down a little.Of course there have been some bright spots too..I got a new ipod shuffle(a parting gift :D),some new clothes,talked to a new blogger friend and fed some people at the temple too.But those shall wait,I choose to write about something more important in this post.

It's festival time.Today is the second day of Rajo.It's a very important festival of Orissa that marks the arrival of the monsoons and beginning of the tilling season.It's celebrated over 3 days.During this time the farmers take a break from their work and indulge in gaiety.The idea is to give mother earth a little rest while she menstruates.It's an important festival for young girls who wear new clothes,decorate themselves and swing away.Till a few years back the festival was celebrated with great fervour in the cities as well.There used to be a time when every household used to set a swing in their house for the young girls to enjoy.They still do in some houses.With single houses giving away to high rise buildings and apartments, finding a tree in the compound to fix a swing has become a difficult affair.

I remember while we were kids I used to go to my best friend M's place to celebrate Rajo.They had this huge mango tree near their pond where a big swing was set.While we took turns in swinging we also used to eat the cakes and sweets that were prepared for the occasion.We used to exchange delicacies and have a good time.Almost immediately after Rajo the schools used to reopen after the summer holidays.So everybody wanted to end the holidays on a high note.

One such year during Rajo while I was swinging away in full speed the rope gave away and Dham ! I landed in the pond.When I was finally pulled out I had one frog on my head and 2 more inside my dress.I was in some kind of shock,more because of the croaking animals than the impact. That was the last I sat on the swing.

Over the years as we grew up and got busy with our studies and college life the festival came as a welcome respite from the routine.It became an occasion where we used to catch up with old friends go out and spend some time together.This year most of my friends are out.So it's a quiet celebration for me.I don't even see the enthusiasm in the kids anymore.All they do is wear new clothes and play their usual games.Rajo used to be much more.The swing was an integral part of the festival and girls used to play desi games like pucchi(it's more like the sitting twist..couldn't find anything else to describe it),kaudi(gambling) and khit khit(tic tac toe).There used to be Pucchi competitions as well.

These days you can only feel the arrival of Rajo by the heavy shopping discounts that the shops offer during this time.Yesterday after a hot sunny afternoon the weather suddenly cooled.There was a rush of cool wind and I could hear the thunder.But it didn't rain.Neither did it rain today.I hope it rains tomorrow.

Things are changing..and changing for bad.*Sigh*

Surprises

2009-06-10T21:13:00.010+05:30

Come down..I have a surprise for you.

Now..why?

Just like that.

Keep it for tomorrow.Shall see it in the morning.

It can't wait.15 mins max..I promise.

Ok..what is it? flowers?

No.Something you said you like.

Ice creams?

No..Now stop guessing.Come down.I shall pick you up.You don't even have to ride.

No..thats fine.

Ok..I am waiting downstairs.So hurry up.

She wondered what he was up to this time..cauliflower bouquets,a chain with a star pendant,hand cooked crabs,ice creams,Marlboro mint cigarettes..he had surprised her enough for the day.And now there was something more...The guy is mad,she knew for sure.

She found him waiting at the gate.She started her vehicle.

Where are we going?

Just follow me.

She followed.They crossed the flyover and headed towards the VIP area.She loved that locality.It had wide roads with trees lined on either side,street lamps that cast white lights and less people.There was a gentle breeze blowing.She felt it in her hair..and smiled.It was lovely.

He slowed down his vehicle and said,You love it,don't you?

She looked at him and grinned.You are mad.

Thanks.. he said flashing a wide smile.

Letters

2009-06-05T07:10:00.010+05:30

She knew he loved her..for the last many many years.He'd never said it,but she could always feel it when she was with him or talked to him..But why then,was the warmth missing in his voice today?Was she imagining,or was it for real?

She felt guilty inside.She knew the mistake was hers.

She thought of all the times she had shared with him.On one of her visits,he had shown her the letters she had written to him.The oldest was written some 19 years back.He had saved all of them in a box.She had laughed and he had smiled.On another visit,he had given her his stamp collection,his most prized possession.She had felt overwhelmed then.She had also looted his library and read a lot.He loved her for her intelligence and she loved having intellectual discussions with him.

She didn't remember when she last wrote to him.When she had got her mobile,she had placed the first call to him.She kept calling him from time to time.Slowly the letters had dwindled and so had the calls.

She thought of the time when she had last met him..

..He had lost his wife then.She had rushed to him at the news.While everyone around mourned,he still was his stoic self.He didn't go to the funeral..said he would look over the function at home.She had decided to stay back with him.

She had found him sitting on the bench in the garden like he always did in the afternoons..She had gone and sat next to him.He had been quite for some time.And then had talked of his wife,the first time ever.She could see his eyes moisten.Finally a tear had trickled down his face.She had choked inside seeing that.She had wanted to hug him and tell him that everything would be okay.She had wanted to tell him, she loved him a lot.But she had just sat silently.It was then he had said something,was it a quote she couldn't tell..but she remembered it.

And slowly I shall pass
Under the gentle sky
And not a blade of grass
Shall tell where I lie..

God,it's 5 years already!!

She started dialing his number but then suddenly cut the line.She rushed to the nearest post office and asked for a telegram,scribbled something on it and smiled.

Dear grandpa

Reaching tomorrow.

Regards,

Indu

Sital sasthi

2009-05-30T22:51:00.011+05:30

Yesterday I had been to a wedding reception.It was held in a temple near my place.There were lots of people chatting away happily,colourful lights,samianas,good food,loud music with the newly weds decked up in beautiful clothes.. just like any other wedding u may think.Or not really..

Here the guests had not come to bless the couple but to seek blessings instead.For it was the wedding of their gods,Shiva and his consort Parvati.

It's the festival of Shital Sasthi that marks the holy alliance of lord Shiva and Parvati..Celebrated all over Orissa,especially western Orissa, this festival draws one of the biggest crowds after the Rath Yatra of Puri.But most predominant among all the celebrations takes place in the towns of Bargarh and Sambalpur,where almost each locality(pada) has its own celebrations.

The rituals are spread over a week.On the lines of a Hindu wedding, one family is chosen as the family of the bride and another of the groom.And on the day of the marriage,shiva's family comes to the bride's(parvati's) place for the bahaghara(wedding).People take part in long road processions from the groom's place to the bride's taking the deities in open chariots with various designer motiffs(parbha) serving as background.Artists perform many folk dances,like the bagha nrutya,sambalpuri,the mascot dances etc along the way.Wedding vows are exchanged followed by Kanya daan.One can witness some emotionally charged moments when Parvati leaves for Shiva's abode.It just shows that in India people take their marriages seriously,as they do their gods.

the parbhas bagha nritya(tiger dance)

I was invited to the ceremony in the Shiva temple near my place.It's a pretty old temple,lying in the heritage belt of Bhubaneswar.There are many temples in and around the periphery of Lingaraj temple that are very old with lots of historical importance like the kedar gouri,Anant vasudev,Nageswar temple etc..I'd never been to any such function before.Though I'm religious,I'm not someone who visits the temple regularly.But i really liked this experience.

I feel festivals are not just mere occasions of celebrations.Every festival has a lot of positive thoughts,ideas and lessons to offer.Witnessing or being a part of one such event might change the hearts of some of the skeptics who don't have faith in the our social institutions.Sounds dramatically cliched but then marriages are made in heaven,realized on earth. :)

A love story-The end

2009-05-26T21:40:00.020+05:30

Hello Riya

Yes.

Can u guess who's this?

Well I am sorry,I am not able to place.

It's Al.

Riya was stunned.She was shocked that she couldn't recognize Al's voice.They had lost touch over the years and it's been almost 6 years since they last talked.

Hi Al..long time.What a surprise!

Yes i know..same here.How u doing?

I am fine.Where are you calling from?

Actually I am in town.Arrived yesterday.Thought I would meet you.It's been a long while since we met..lots to catch up..you free?

Riya paused.She hadn't seen Al after he had moved to Mumbai.Things had changed in all these years.She had moved on,fallen in love and was into a steady relationship.Al had gone on to do his law and she had done her engineering and after 2 years of working outside she had finally taken up a job in the city.Al's memories had slowly faded away.

Riya..?

Yes.. yes sure.

Great..So can you pick me up..you know my place rt?

Yea okay.See you in an hour.

Riya couldn't believe she agreed.She had taken a long time to get over him.And she had hoped that they never crossed ways.And even if they did,she had decided not to pursue the matter.But here she was, feeling weak already.

Face him.It's going to be okay.He doesn't mean anything to you now..well nothing more than a passing aquaintance.

Riya parked her car infront of Al's house.It had been more than eight years since she had visited the neighbourhood.Nothing much had changed though.She was filled with a lot of anticipation as she waited for Al to open the door.She could feel her heart beat growing faster.She took in a deep breath.

Al opened the door. Standing before her was a man with a charming smile, unkempt hair with the same dark eyes that bore deep into her soul.He looked different but still the same.Al looked at her and smiled. She could feel her heart melt.She smiled back.

Focuss.

You look lovely.A lot different from the Riya I knew in school.

Thanks.

Riya blushed.Her fair cheeks turned a darker shade of magenta.

Idiot.Focuss.

They went out for some coffee.Riya talked about her college days,her work and Al talked about the girls he had dated.Even though she was excited she could sense something missing.Al was a little withdrawn.So finally she had to ask if anything was wrong.

Al's face went grim.He suddenly had a very weary look.Riya got worried.And then Al was out with his story.

Riya..m very disturbed.I actually needed to talk to somebody.

Yes Al..u can talk.I'm all ears.

This happened about a week back.I and my friends were returning after watching the India-Aus odi.It was late.Our vehicle broke down on the way.We had girls with us.So while they waited inside,I and my best friend went to look for some help..It was then we were intercepted by a police vehicle.They thought we were upto something and took us to the station.And then they framed charges against us.

Why were u charged?

Well.. we were caught with dope.

Riya was shocked.She couldn't believe Al was into all that.Suddenly Al took her hands and looked at her with begging eyes.

Riya I need your help.Please don't refuse.

It's okay Al.You do need help.But I.. I don't know what to do.

It's been more than a week since I doped.And I badly need to de clutter my mind.Nobody shall understand.I hope you do.Can we go to some place where we..I can dope?

Riya literally jumped off her seat.

No way Al..Don't even think of it. Please Please ..Al pleaded with her. Riya looked on with scared eyes.

No Al..We are going home.I am dropping you off at your place and then I am off to my own.

Riya was shocked beyond words.She had never thought she would meet Al like this.In school he had been one of the brightest boys of the class.But the guy in front of her was a wreck.She felt bad for him.

Back in the car,Al had a grumpy look.

Okay Riya,if you can't take me somewhere,atleast you can let me drive?You trust me that much,don't you?For old times sake..please,he said looking into her eyes.

Riya couldn't say no.She had seen too much already and wanted to be back home at the soonest.But she didn't have the heart to be rude with him either.So she agreed.

Thanks

Riya felt numbed.Things had again changed so much since the evening. They drove on for some while.And Al asked her about her personal life.

Heard you got into a relationship sometime back.How's it going?

Oh Sid is a great guy.He's very honest and simple.He's not very wild but then I like him because he's very matured and deals with things responsibly.

Eh..really?

Of course.

He sounds boring.

Riya looked up at the remark.

You shouldn't be the one making judgements and passing comments here.At least he's better than you.

Al looked at her and smirked.Suddenly he took a right turn and entered a dark alley.And hit the accelerator.Riya was too shocked to react.

Al stop the car. Riya shouted.

But he wasn't listening.

Finally the vehicle screeched to a halt.Al got down the car.He looked around then took out something from his pocket,rolled it and started smoking.

Al..What are u doing?I want to go back home.Riya screamed at the top of her voice.

Yea..some more minutes.Don't you like the place.It's so peaceful.

Riya had tears in her eyes.I beg of you,please Al.

Al came close looked at her pale face,wiped away her tears and smiled.

Riya was shivering.She was scared of the brute standing infront of her.

Calm down Riya.He said and moved close to her.

She pushed him back but then she could not get off his tight grasp.

Riya can I kiss you?

No.Get off me you bastard.

I guess I will.

Saying so,he pulled her close and kissed her lips.Riya fought hard but then she gave up.She kissed him wildly.She loved his animal magnetism.It was their first kiss.

After what seemed like an eternity Riya pulled herself back.

Look Al,I love Sid.He's the guy in my life now.

Hmm hmm.He smiled and gently kissed her hands.

And you don't breathe a word about this to anybody.You understand.

Al nodded.

Now please let's go home.

She dropped Al at his place.And she could feel her heart beat for Al again.

Thanks Riya..I had a wonderful evening.But I have some things to say.First.. I don't do drugs.That was just a plain fag..You can have one too.He handed her a packet.

The whole story was a cook up.I just wanted to have some fun with you.And I never knew you kiss so good.Man,should have kissed you before..he said looking pretty pleased.

You freak..asshole.Riya fumed.

It was just a kiss cmon.You can get back to being Miss goody two shoes again.

And I guess,no one ever kissed you this wild.He winked.

Riya was out of words again..in fact she had been out of words many times that evening.She thought it wise to call it a night.

Okay Al..goodnight.I have to go to work tomorrow.

So,you want to see me again?

Nope.I had enough fun at my expense.Riya hit back and started her car.

Al kept grinning..Oh btw,there's another thing I wanted to tell you..

Now what? Riya asked looking irritated.

I love you.

****

Riya returned from her thoughts.She again had a smile on her face.But the smile disappeared as soon as it had appeared.

Al had asked her to consider his proposal.But she had been too shocked to give an answer then.In fact she was tired of all the shocks she had received that night.She had asked for time and bid him goodbye.He had asked her to call him up and let him know of her decision.

Back home Riya had given it a lot of thought.She had felt torn between her conscience and heart.She was in a steady relationship.She loved Sid but then something kept drawing her to Al.

She had decided not to call him up.
She had also ended things with Sid for it wasn't possible for her to be honest to herself and at the same be true to him.

Now after two years when she heard about Al and Bhavika,she was flooded with memories.

She decided to finally give Al a call and congratulate him.

Hello Al.

Pause

Riya?

She was surprised he recognized her voice so easily.

Yeah..How you doing?

I'm good.

Finally...Thought you would never call.

Yes..Many congratulations.Heard about you and Bhavika.

Who?

I mean I heard about your engagement.So thought to congratulate you..

Thank you.But you are a lil late.She ditched me.And there was no engagement.

What?

Yes..She found someone wilder.

Oh..m sorry.

Don't be.I'm glad you called.And my proposal still holds good.So whats your answer?

What?

No..of course not.I didn't call for that.

I'm getting tired of this chasing game.Please say yes.I am dying to marry you.

You think marriage is a joke?

Silence

Riya..I think you have realized by now what's the true calling of your heart.I maynot be perfect..I maynot be the best..but I'm certainly right for you.Because I love you.And you do too.I tried to love somebody else..but I couldn't.It has to be you.

Riya listened to him in silence.Al sounded serious.She knew he was right.

So..?I don't have much time.

Al..I..me too.

Yess..That's wise of you,really!I shall meet you soon. Love you.Bye.

She smiled.She was finally happy.

A love story continued..

2009-05-24T19:16:00.008+05:30

It was the last day of their high school.Riya felt uneasy.She had knots in her stomach.She was looking for Al.She wanted to spend as much time as she could with him.She hadn't missed classes even once in the last 2 years as she didn't want to miss out on Al for even a day.Everybody in class thought she and Al made a good team.Even she thought so.Quizzing,debating,dramatics.. they often paired up as a team.In fact sitting on the podium,facing a volley of questions and beating the shit out of other teams gave them a high.Competitions had brought them close,not just as partners but as friends.

She spotted Al in the company of Jaya.Her face changed colours to a darker shade of red.She hated Jaya,the babe of the class.Jaya was coquettish,fun,curvaceous and had a great smile.And she was the only girl Riya envied.Riya tried looking the other way.But Al had already caught her looking at him.So the next min he was by her side.

"So,having fun?"Riya asked trying to sound cool.

"Yeah.."He said looking in the direction of Jaya.

Riya was finding it hard to contain her jealousy but forced a smile.

"Oh great.Btw,heard you would do your college in Mumbai"

"Yep.Dad's got a transfer there.Shall be leaving by the end of this month.

"Nice" Her voice gave away her disappointment.

"And then?"she asked.

"Then i find a hot babe for myself" he added grinning.

She was taken back by the reply.But quickly recovered and laughed.

"No..I meant your career plans"

"Law.There's lot of money in that field.And you even get a lot of holidays."

"Oh wow."

"What about you?"

"I dunno..maybe the civil services."

"Thats great.But I wonder if you would make a good officer."

Riya felt offended at the remark and said curtly,"I am afraid,your opinion won't change things"

Al smiled and said,"No I meant if you give away to your emotions this easily..it would be hard for you."

Riya was shocked.This was not how she had expected the conversation to go.
She was almost thinking on what to say next when suddenly Al seemed to have remembered something.

"Hey Riya,I need to talk something important to you."

"Yes"

"Look,first you need to promise me you won't react,even if you do not like what I say.Second,you are free to say whatever is on your mind"

Riya wondered,the knots in her stomach growing tighter.

"The thing is.."he hesitated before adding"..Sunny likes you."

"What?"

"Just listen,alright.He wanted to tell you this but is scared you mightn't take it well.So he has asked me to talk to you about this.See,Sunny's a good guy.I know him,he's my best friend.We both have hit on many girls.But he really likes you."

Riya was fuming.She could no longer take this.The guy she loved was vouching for his best friend.

"You know what?..Both you and Sunny can go to hell"Saying so she stormed out of the hall.She didn't want him to notice the tears that were rolling down her face.She was angry,hurt and upset.

Riya and Al didn't speak for the remaining days.On the day of leaving Al gave her a call.

"Riya,I am sorry.I don't want that one episode to ruin our friendship.I have talked to Sunny about this too.He would be happy to have you as just a friend."

Riya was getting choked.She felt a sudden surge of emotion.It was getting hard for her to hide her feelings from him.

"Al,can we meet?"

"Now?I have only 2 hours left for my train"

"Al..please.It's important"Her voice was already cracking.

Riya was nervous while she waited for Al in the ice cream parlour.She kept rehearsing her lines. She saw Al entering the shop and she froze.

"You okay?I huffed half way across the town in my cycle to be here on time."Al said panting.

She smiled.

"What is it?"

She was feeling a lot awkward.She couldn't look him in the eye.

"Well..it's nothing important.I.. just wanted to say I would miss you."and she stopped.

"Thats it?You made me come all the way,so that you could tell me this..?"Al said looking frustrated.

She looked at him.She was struggling to find words.She felt like a fool.

"I am sorry..I just didn't know if I would see you again.I wanted you to know I would really miss you Al." Her heart was beating a thousand beats a minute and she was scared she might break down again.

The look on Al's face had softened.He gently took her hands and said,"I would miss you too."

She looked at his eyes.She could see something in them.

"I will give you a call once I reach Mumbai.I must leave now."he said and let go off her hands.

She smiled and said a goodbye.He turned around and hurried off.

She saw him speed away in his cycle.She stood there feeling stupid and unwomanly.
"God,I must have put him off.Girls should never make the first move.Darn!"she thought bitterly.

She didn't feel like going home.Moreover she had come to meet him on the pretext of going to some tuitions.So she couldn't be back home that early.She strolled along the market place,looking at things blankly.Finally when she returned home in the evening,she had decided to put this matter behind.

Her parents were getting ready to go out somewhere.Her mom gave her the usual instructions.She kept nodding absently.

"Btw Riya,Al has called up several times since u had been out.He says he needs to talk to you urgently."her mom said.

She couldn't believe her ears.She waited for her parents to move out so that she could call him up.As she was about to call him,the phone rang.It was Al.

"Where the hell had you been?"

"Ah..I..nothing."

"Riya.."he said cutting her short."I have been thinking about today and I have something very important to say.It killed me when I came to know about Sunny's feelings for you.I thought maybe even you liked him.But the truth is..I love you.Today when I met you,I could see something in your eyes,it was love.I felt like hugging you and kissing you on the spot.."

Riya was stunned.It was as if the world had gone around in a matter of seconds.

"You there..?"

"yes..yes"she said coming back from her thoughts.

"So..?I dont have much time.."

"Al..I..me too."she said blushing.

"Yesss..!!I shall call you when I reach.I'm late.Bye.Muaah"and he hung up.

She could barely contain her happiness.It had been the happiest day of her life.

****
Riya smiled as she remembered this.Alas,good things don't last long,she sighed.She and Al hadn't lasted a year.The distance told it's effect on the relationship and they broke up.Riya was heartbroken but she knew it was right,for both of them if they were to remain friends.

Her mind now shifted to their meeting 2 years back..

..to be continued

A love story

2009-05-23T08:27:00.009+05:30

Riya sat together laughing and talking with her friends.She was meeting them after a really long time..It's been 10 years since they all passed school but nothing had changed much,of course some of the guys had bulging waists and receding hairlines but the girls had shaped up.She herself had added on a few pounds.

The conversation was in flow.
"Rem Chimpu?""Srads asked.

"The one who always talked about going to the States and flaunted goods his cousins there sent him."Sikha asked.

The others sniggered.

"Well,..he's got through Wharton."Srads said smiling.

The sniggerings stopped.There were no more comments about him.

Sensing the chance,Riya suddenly asked,"What's with Al?"She tried to sound casual.

Everybody looked on for some time before Rishav answered,"He's doing good..plans to move to Delhi to litigate."

"Hmm..good"Riya remarked.

"So you guys are not in touch?"Vimal asked.

"No.I had met him 2 years back.We haven't talked after that."

Nobody insisted on the details.They were still not sure about Riya and Al's relationship.From friends to lovers to mere aquaintances now,they sure had come a long way.

The conversation shifted to the personal lives of their friends.Most of them were either engaged or were planning to take the vows in a couple of years.Al again popped up in their chats.

"Hey Riya,do you know Al is planning to get married to Bhavika,some time around next year."Sudhir asked.

She looked surprised and all she could manage was a "Oh..good"

"Yeah,good.I'm happy you are not with him.He wasn't good for you anyway"Vimal added.

Riya just nodded.

*****

Back home,she settled in her couch and thought of all the old times..their relationship over the past 10 years.

..to be continued

Fraandship Day!

2009-05-20T22:10:00.008+05:30

I know I know..friendship day is nowhere around.

But suddenly so many of my friends are in town that I am having a busy time meeting everyone.And since some of them stay out of country for a major part of the year,it's all the more exciting to catch up with them.I have been out all day,and shall be out again in some time.And I don't feel the slightest bit tired.I guess thats the beauty of it.With friends around,the fun never ends.

Max,Prats,Dan,Yogi bear,Chix,Ron,Abby,Muthu,Python,Poo..the old school gang is here in it's full strength.Old secrets shall be dug out.New ones shall be revealed.

Well..m off..shall be back with some juicy stories from the party..err only if m not sworn to secrecy ;)

Romantic me

2009-05-18T11:25:00.007+05:30

For the past few weeks I wasn't too happy with my life.Nothing too upsetting in particular,but the way things were going,especially in the lives of people close to me,it had left me disturbed.I saw more break ups and fights in the past 2 weeks than probably i had done in a year.I was beginning to feel jaded and a little skeptical on the whole idea of 'being in love'.So when one of my close friends asked for my help in organizing a small function on the occasion of her parents' 25th marriage anniversary,I was only glad to help.I needed to get my spirits back.

I was given the overall charge of the event.So from setting the ambience,to choosing the menu,selecting the music to inviting the guests it was all my responsibility.It was a family affair so only relatives and close family friends were invited.I always like small gatherings,it's more personal. We had a young couple,few youngsters and some senior couples amidst us.Being close to my friend I knew almost all people around.The elders were a delightful bunch,who cracked jokes and recounted many funny and romantic incidents from their life.

We had a small event where the men had to dedicate a song to their wives.The elderly couples laughed it off but everyone cheered when the young husband volunteered.We could see his lovely wife blush when he sang "mujhe raat din,bas mujhe chahti ho.."There was a hint of naughtiness in his eyes.It was too sweet and too romantic.It set the mood in.And then we had my friend's dad and some of the elders sing songs.They weren't exactly romantic,but everyone was enjoying.

The food was great.After dinner,the elders got down to some serious discussion over their drinks.The music in the background was soft and romantic.I couldn't help myself when the godfather's theme started playing and pulled my friend for a dance.And soon the others joined in and we all were dancing to the romantic music.It was good too see everybody laugh and enjoy so much.

I feel a lot relaxed after yesterday night.It was a nice way to unwind.I have my romantic caps on and I'm feeling all mushy and mellow now.I have already listened to more than a dozen love songs since morning.So here's sharing one of my all time favourites with you.Enjoy!

Nav-win all the way..

2009-05-17T09:41:00.007+05:30

Results are out..and we have a winner.Mr Patnaik has been voted to power for the third time,a feat that deserves accolades.When he broke his alliance with the BJP,he had taken a huge risk but then the risk paid off.People made sure they voted for the party so that there's no fractured mandate.Should come as a lesson to BJP.They lost a faithful ally and eventually the LS elections.
Just a few pointers for BJP,they did the gravest of mistakes by their scathing remarks on Mr Manmohan Singh,an honest soul.They repeated the mistake with Naveen Patnaik.They also raised the Ram Mandir issue.For heavens,people are fed up with that..And people are no fools..not anymore.You cannot take them for granted and mobilize them on the basis of their religion.And they have proved just that by showing you the middle finger.

Another interesting thing is congress has literally been wiped off the face of Orissa politics. Many senior congress leaders,including the state congress president lost to new politicians with a huge margin.It's time they pulled their socks and analyse where they went wrong.Fielding morally corrupt veteran politicans who had done more damage to the state in their years of rule has proved costly for the party.If they want to come back strongly in the next elections,they must induct young leaders capable of making a difference.A few field trips by Mr Gandhi won't help.

Coming back to Bjp again,surprisingly they have won in the communal torn district of Kandhamal,with BJP candidates winning in 2 of the 3 assembly segments.Seems the angst of the people over the killing of Swami Lakshmananda Saraswati has not died out.And it is also time that the media realizes that there's more to the issue than meets the eye.BJD did wise to wash their hands clean off the issue by de-saffronising itself.But then people,mostly tribals,apparently converted Christians did not show faith in the 'secular' parties either.Because they are non performing and because they are also the ones(not just the saffron brigade) responsible for disrupting the communal harmony of the people there..Kandhamal had always seen the peaceful co-existence of christian minorities and hindus.But then politicising the whole swami-nun case has done a lot of damage to the people there.There's a lesson for all the secular(pseudo secular) forces,you cannot get away by playing the secular trump card every time.

Well I was also keenly awaiting the results of a man on another part of our country,Mr Sashi Tharoor,the congress candidate contesting for the LS seat from Kerela.My heart gladdened at his victory.It was a victory of the intelligensia.That man can create a difference.Many congratulations and all the best Mr Tharoor.

Anyway I hope we have a stable government at the centre.It's a good thing,the UPA was voted to power.They can carry on from where they had left.I see a lot of promise in some of the young leaders of the party,despite their family tags.People have shown their faith in them and they should live upto it.I also hope Mr Chidambaram comes up with good budgets(provided he handles the finance portfolio).His policies,especially over the past 2 years has only left me questioning his financial knowledge. And i seriously wish that the UPA do not join hands with the Left.I'm glad the Left has got a good thrashing in the LS elections this time.And happier that the third and fourth front fizzled out.Crappy alliances are bad for democracy.

Until next time.

The Experiment

2009-05-15T22:33:00.004+05:30

What happens after death?. Does the dying person feel anything after the remnants of life ebbs out of his body?. What does he feel after that?. An empty blankness, an inexplicable void that lasts till eternity, a prelude to the attainment of Moksha , Nirvana or whatever else it is called?. The only way of finding out , unfortunately or fortunately,depending on your perspective , is to experience death in all its morbid glory.

Which is what he decided to do. he had been fascinated with the idea of death since he saw his grandmother die, in fits , foaming from her mouth , grasping her neck to relieve herself from an imagined noose, in the throes of painful death , desperately trying to cling on to one last strand of what we call 'Life'. She lay writhing and clawing in her mess of a bed ,heaving and trying to draw in gulps of fast running out air, looking like some grotesque manifestation of a prehistoric worm , obscene in death as ugly in life. That was his first encounter with death , the beginning of his obsession with terminality of life , not his last by any means. He stood by his granny's bedside , staring at her flaccid and already decomposing body ,his eyes carrying a feverish look of fascination and horror alike , thinking how good it would be to go to the other side, have a glimpse of the wonders that lay on the other side , of that world that no one knew about but everyone wanted to.There was no sorrow , only curiosity that was impossible to satisfy. He watched her body being laid in a hearse and carried off to the burial ground near the river, behind the gray old church that had been standing there for hundreds of years. He saw her coffin being laid inside the ditch , dirt thrown over her lifeless body inside the black coffin of death, covering her up in a final full stop.

Today was the day, yes today was the day he would know all about it. He would unlock the mysteries that lay on the other side, he would delve into a world he had been wanting to enter for the last thirteen years of his young life. It was his single obsession , his aim , his anathema, his elixir. He had religiously prepared for this day , making sure everything was right , as he wanted it to be. He did not want to fail, he could not AFFORD to fail in this endeavour , it was all he ever wanted.

The setup was brilliant in its simplicity. He had made the device himself , crafted it with his own hands. It was a glass box , sealed from all sides , with a trap in the front. The trap lay right in front of his right foot. The trap could be kicked open with his foot , when desired , or it would automatically open once the oil holding the trap closed would run out. It was ridiculously simple. He would enter the glass box , seal himself in,take the Morphine , wait for the sedation to kick in. At some point in the night the oxygen would run out and he would await the point in which his body would start to given to the oxygen deprivation. This would roughly take around the same time as it would take for the oil to run out , causing the trap to open and let in air. In any case , when he had experienced the "Other Side" as he called it , he could always kick hard at the trap and it would fling open. He knew he was cutting it fine , it could always fail and it was possible he would never come back from the "Other side" to tell about his fantastic foray into another world. But he was prepared to take the risk , it was a risk that was going to be worth it. In any case he had taken precautions , he would kick out whenever he felt he was going in too far. He just wanted to experience the other side for a moment or two and he was sure he had taken adequate measures to return from his short sojourn safe and sound and having the forbidden knowledge embedded inside him.

It was time for him to start his voyage into the forbidden. The time had come for him to realize his dream , satisfy his burning curiosity. He entered the box , loaded with Morphine and ready for his journey , a journey that would quench his thirst of a lifetime, his desire for knowledge , a knowledge that was more precious to him than anything else. he shut the trap , sealing himself off rom the outside world , cutting off the supply of air. He was ready....

About six hours had passed by , he was in a deep tranquil , accentuated heavily by the morphine. He could feel his breathing get shallower as the oxygen was running out, slowly at first , quicker as the time passed him by.He was happy , a serene look on his face , glowing in the pleasure of the knowledge he was about to acquire soon.He had his leg on the trap , ready to kick out when the time came.

Some more time had passed , the oxygen was almost exhausted. he could feel the warmness of his own breath in the air he tried to inhaled. There was nothing more to suck in, the time had come. He could feel his brain swimming , crying out for want of air, He could hear his heart beating furiously , trying to recycle whatever little oxygen he had left in his body.he could feel himself floating away , losing consciousness, the morphine making him reluctant to react to the lack of air. .... he did not know what time it was. He did not know where he was.. he did not know who he was.. he saw himself walking on a rocky landscaped under a purple sky.. He could hear the sound of a ferocious , tearing wind but he could not feel anything. There was an infinity of gray , bleak land before him , ahead of him...He looked up.. he saw no sun , no stars , no moon, no anything... What he did see was nothing like he had ever seen before.. he saw a huge plasma of incandescent light in the corner of his view.. It was pulsating as if alive , beating two and throw and throwing up a myriad of colours and shades which could not be named..The ground on which he walked on felt hot and clammy , like it was alive with the blood of some prehistoric monster....He trudged on...

There was a huge sea in front of him.He called it a sea because he had no other way of relating it with the world he was familiar with. It could be called a sea in a vague sort of way. It looked nothing like a sea he had seen. It was a sea in a way that it was a huge expanse of liquid, with something like waves on it surface, but that is where the resemblance ended. The liquid was of a much thicker consistency than anything he had seen before. It was of a golden hue , bubbling like hot lava. he saw these black shapes on its centre , dotted around like tiny islands , only they were not static. They floated about in this mass of frothy liquid, in a myriad of different shapes... And the smell. The smell was the worst of it all. It was indescribable. It faintly reminded him of Burning rubber intermingled with the rotting stench of a rabbit carcass near his home. There was something else too, a smell so subtle it was hard to pickup, but it was there. He didnt want to know....He trudged on....

Now it was a dry , acrid landscape. The sky was copper if you could call it a sky. It was so close he could almost reach it and touch , but something inside him warned not to. There was a shrill sound , faint at first , slowly and steadily growing in pitch and intensity, coming towards him from all directions. He could feel it around him , enveloping him, filling his ears up with static. He saw a brown mass , an undulating shape , far off in the copper sky, slowly descending. He saw a similar shape descending behind him. The smell was stronger now , almost choking him. The sound became shriller.The horizon was turning red , a shade of red that was almost scarlet. Now he saw the same brown shapes descending from all directions. The smell was overpowering him , he could feel it corrupting his flesh..

The air cleared and now he could see. He saw human faces , faces like him , faces of men and women , young and old, white and black. He saw animals , dogs and cats , tigers and bears , birds and insects..They were all inside a huge circle of clear land , looking up as the brown mass slowly but incessantly descended towards them. He saw himself staring into the mass, not wanting to know any more. He did not want to know what was going to happen next.. he wanted to end this right here. He wanted to go back. he remembered about the experiment. He had seen enough, he wanted no more.. He did not know why but he was convinced that if he knew any further , the humanity inside of him would cease to exist. He was not supposed to be here .... He wanted to go back..... He kicked out , in the vain hope that the trap would open and he would be dragged back from this corrupted , rotten existence... he frantically kicked his legs , realizing the futility of it all.. It was too late.. They were descending.. They were coming for him. They were coming for the dead.. And the alive....

P.S..This is a guest post by my friend,nightwolf.He plans to start his blog soon,he only needs a lil push.Kindly review him.Thank you :)

Code 64(decoded)

2009-05-12T20:35:00.008+05:30

Over coffee the next day

So did you find anything? Suzzane asked.

Yea.Googled 64,came up with lots of usless info.64 bit Ram chips,a fire in Rome in 64 A.d,64 dna codons etc..

Found anything important?

Well nothing much.I read the Sibyline prophecies even.In the 64th line of the prophecy,Sibyl predicts that god shall banish the offenders from his kingdom.Didn't make sense.

I did some research too.Seems there are 64 styles in the Kama Sutra.

Matthew laughs and his face lightens up a little.

But I had a weird dream last night,wherein I saw a lady.Her hair was flowing and she looked really scary.She came upto me and whispered,"Goodbye Matthew"

Must have been Sibyl.You have got a vivid imagination.The more you think,the more it shall control you.So just let go off it.

Yes..even i think so.

But Suzzane could see Matthew lost in his thoughts.

******

Some days later at Suzzane's place

I guess the prophecy did come true after all.I had been so busy worrying about this 64 code that I'd forgotten to put the water heater off.I had dozed off and the heat had melted the wires causing sparks.So my room was literally in flames before I noticed.My owner threw me out of the house.Worse I have been slammed a notice asking me to pay the damages.

And the coincidences?

They have stopped fortunately,right after the accident.But I still wonder what was the connection of the event to the number?

Hmm..when did you say you had the accident?

5th of March.

She went upto the calender & counted something.Then she looked at him and smiled.

Well well...5th march was the 64 th day of the year.

PS:Story inspired by the real life incidents of my friend Geekie.

Code 64

2009-05-10T21:02:00.008+05:30

Mathew couldn't concentrate on his ride back home.The sightings were happening too often to be warded off as mere coincidences.He had consciously tried to keep his mind off those incidents but now it was driving him mad.He had to tell about today's incidents to Suzzane.She was the only one who at least listened to him.

Hello M.

Hello.Guess what?There were more occurings today.I'd been to the station to make tickets for my sister and to my shock I found that she has been allocated seat number 64.And the coincidence didn't just end there.I went to the medicine shop next and the bill came out to be 264.

Hmm..It's 264 and not 64.So we won't count it as a coincidence.

What?why not?It could have been 263 or 265 but why 264?

Cmon..It's just a number.I think once u choose to ignore,you shall be less disturbed.

But how can I?How can everything be a coincidence..my school roll,my college registration number,my passport,driving license,employee id,flat number have 64 in them and it doesn't stop there.

Thats why there are coincidences.

I tried telling this to Malcom but he laughed it off.I don't think these are coincidences,these are signs.

Relax.Don't be so hyper.

You would, if you had to face that everyday..everywhere.

Hmm..But look at the brighter side,nothing bad has happened till date.So these are just sightings and have no relevance whats so ever.

It hasn't..what if it may?

If something has to go wrong,it shall go wrong anyway.And not because of some number.

Pause

My airtel word of the day,Sybilline.You know what it means?

No but Sybilline oracles are some lost christian texts i believe.

Exactly.They are a collection of oracular utterances ascribed to the Sibyls,prophetesses who uttered divine revelations in a frenzied state.

So?

Sybilline also means having a secret or hidden meaning.The text somehow forces me to believe that 64 is some kinda code.

What code?That was just a random word.Listen just go to sleep..okay?You ve been thinking too much.

You have a way out?

Hmm..I think I have an idea.Why don't you take your mind off that number and focuss on some other number..say 32.Start noting all 32s from tomorrow.

32 is half of 64.

Goodness!

See..Somehow I am forced to think everything in those lines.

You are freaking me out.Okay,even if it's some sign..what could it mean?

I dunno..

(to be contd..)

An accident

2009-05-08T16:16:00.000+05:30

He opened his eyes.People were all around him.He saw her looking at him with big eyes.He looked at himself.His shirt was stained with blood.He felt dizzy and his mind going blank .The pictures started to dim out.He smiled at her.And he passed out.

That was how Arjun had met Nidhi.She had rushed him to hospital after her car had crashed onto his bike.Arjun survived a major concussion with broken limbs.Over the days she had nursed him back to health.She hadn't shirked from her duties and thats how they had become friends and lovers later.

It had been five years to the accident and two years to their marriage now.Nidhi was in the OT.She was having a baby and Arjun was waiting outside all tensed.Doctors had warned them both about the risks involved but Nidhi had decided to go ahead with it.

The doctor came out looking grim.Arjun rushed inside to be with his wife.He held onto her hands as the nurse handed him the baby.

He saw her looking at him with big eyes.He looked at himself.His shirt was stained with blood.He felt dizzy and his mind was going blank.The pictures started to dim out. He smiled at her.She passed away.

His baby had died in his arms.

Auntyjee

2009-05-05T19:43:00.000+05:30

I became the proud aunt of a baby girl sometime back.Here she is, sleeping peacefully in her granny's arms.. :D

feeling old already.. *sigh*

The last goodbye

2009-04-28T14:10:00.000+05:30

There was 10 mins left for the train to leave the station.Ritu waited anxiously for Amit.She was getting impatient.She tried calling him up on his cell but there was no answer.He should have been here by now,she thought.She had repeatedly told him about the train timings.She scanned the crowd rushing towards the platform.There was no sign of him.

The anger in her grew into a resentment.She decided ner to call him up again.
It's okay.Things are only going to get better from now on.It's good that he didn't come.I don't care for him anyway.Mumbai shall mark a new start to my life.New place,new friends,new guys.. Just then,she saw a spectacled guy in a loose T shirt with a packet in hand jostling past the crowd towards her.

He arrived and huffed infornt of her.
"where had you been?"she charged.
"There's some bloody rally going on near the station square.So the auto dropped me there.I have ran all the way to reach on time."
Her frown changed into a smile.She handed him a bottle of water. Her eyes fell on the packet.It contained her favourite chips packets and a soft drink bottle.
"Who asked you to get all these?" she chided him. He gulped down the water and looked at her."I'm starving.Tumhare chakkar mein lunch miss hua.I am going to have these for lunch today."

Her face fell.She had expected a little too much.Amit didn't know how to give surprises and was never so considerate after all.

"I'm leaving in some mins.I am not sure we can meet too often now.In fact.. I'm not sure when I would meet you next.Maybe the next time i'm in town you would have moved out."
"True.But do send me my birthday presents every year.I shall keep mailing you my address wherever i go."
She smiled and nodded.He had always been this way,funny and detached.But she liked that in him.
"Any last words?"she asked.
"Yes..I have something for you."saying so he fished into his jeans pocket.He kept searching for something.

For a moment,Ritu was taken back surprised.She was curious,a little hesitant
Did he really..So would he finally.. Could it be a ring?

But then Amit had always disappointed her.And it wasn't any exception this time.He pulled her hand and thrust a small packet in her palm and closed it.
She looked at it and squirmed."What is it?"
"Protection"
"Wtf?Why are you giving it to me?Take it back."she said trying to hand it back to him.
"Cmon..I saved the last one for you.You are going to a new place.You might need it."
"I am never going to need it" she said fumbling in anger.
"Why..anything wrong with you?"he said acting surprised.He saw her fuming in anger.
"Now don't be a sissy.You are going to do ur MBA and that too in Mumbai..And in case you meet a cute guy and u go all bonkers,what shall you do then?"
"I can get one from there if i want..And you don't have to worry about that in any case."
"Of course.I have all reasons to be worried about you.You would be too shy to go to the pharmacist and ask for it."
"No i won't.I don't need it."She said and tried to put the packet back in his pant pockets.
"Hey...hey..stop.It's a railway station.You might send wrong ideas to people around."he said moving back.

He grinned as her eyes filled with tears in frustration.
"You know something.. you are a heartless slimy being.You are disgusting.I hate you."she said tears finally rolling down her face.
He stood there looking at her.He moved closer and took her in his arms.She struggled to free herself.He held her tightly.And looked into her eyes."Please don't be so sensitive Ritu.The world's a bad place and people are mean.You can't cry on such trivial things.Now that I won't be around,you must take care of yourself."

She looked at him teary eyed soaking onto every word of his..She was going to miss him.She knew she loved him.And she knew why.

There was the final horn.The train started to move.

He loosened his grip and handed the packet back to her.
She forced a smile and said,"Don't worry.I shall be fine."
He helped her onto the train.She stood near the door waving him.
He ran along for some distance and finally shouted back,"In case you don't use it,save it for the time i come to meet."He winked at her..

..and she laughed.

vodafone

2009-04-25T19:56:00.000+05:30

The latest of vodafone ads are so funny.The following are two of my favourites..The cartoons are just too cute..Hats off to the advertising guys.. !!

chota credit

beauty tips

Enjoy.. :)

Gladrags

2009-04-23T12:43:00.000+05:30

I:How do u find her?

K:She's hot babes..Who is she?

I:Ankita,winner of this year's Gladrags mega model hunt.

K:Ah really! I should have made use of the passes then.I had asked you to come along.But darn..u didn't and I couldn't go either.

I:But why didn't you take your gal along?

K:No man..It would have been double trouble.I didn't want her to check out the guys.Their 6 packs were a bit too much for my 1 pack.Moreover didn't want her to find me ogling at the gals either.

I:I see. Point is, Ankita is a Mahapatra.

K:So?

I:I am a Mahapatra too.

K grins..

K:lol .. You sure are ..
Mohapatras are on fire ..
but tht crown was yours coz u bought it remember ..

but somehow it landed in the gladarags competitions .. hehe

I:I feel so bad i tell u.. Some idiot stole it from me in the local train.I didn't even get to wear it once.Ner mind, the moment she lands here m gonna indulge in one of those cat fights and take the crown away from her .

K:lands ? Orissa has an airport ? hehe
oh so ur gonna invite her cat to fight with urs ..
ha .. raging pussies .. lmfao
thx a famous movie ..

I:Orissa has an airport..it's in an extended garage.. more like a secret airforce landing base..

K:oh .. isnt tht a local airstrip used by the aero modelling hobby guys to fly rockets made up to ice cream sticks ?

damn man ..

I:precisely...but later the govt decided to develop that spot,in memory of those guys..and thats where we now have the airport..and the beauty of it...there's a space equivalent to a small coffee shop where u can sit and wait for ur plane.. and u simply walk up to it and climb.

K:oh .. thats a plane stop .. lol
so essentially u ve a tiny red board on top of the shade where all the plane nos are written eh ?
nice nice ..
thats some technology .. lol

I:Chuck the airport Mota bhairav.. She was another out of job engineer who paased out with me and she could do it.

K:You are not suggesting any such thing,are you?

looks suspiciously..

K:Gal,she is just glad to be in rags..why do u care? You are the famous odiya actress of Launda Lakadhada..

I:What?

K:Well thats the name of the movie I'm going to direct..

I:Really..? So i get to play the lead?

K: Err..of course babes.You have got a double role there.You play the stick and the naagin.

I:But it's the lead.isn't it?

K:Of course the good stick gets to hit the bad snake.. so u get to play both the characters.

I bursts out laughing

I:Thanks da..Thats so nice of you,really !I feel a lot better.But I haven't told you a secret yet.

K:Eh..What?

I:The crown they stole for the contest..it's an imitation.Some road side junk I got for 100 bucks.

K:Ah really..i knew,there was a catch.Ha ha..let those fools think they had the best deal.
Now u go to sleep.Too much of nonsense can be injurious to health,my health.

I:Sure.Goodnight..bye bye.

Odiya gal Ankita Mohapatra won the gladrags mega model hunt 2009.She's prolly the first from the state to get any such modelling awards.The above conversation took place between me and my friend Kajoo,someone equally insane.Congrats Ankita,you have done us proud..

A memory

2009-04-20T17:21:00.000+05:30

He didn't believe in luck,chance or providence.His luck had always been on a flip.It had always ditched him when he had needed it the most.For some time things had seemed different when she was there with him.But even she had left him.His luck and love had walked out of his life once again..

..When he bumped into her in an ATM booth after all these years,he was surprised.It was a different city,a different country.He had least expected to find her there.She was in a hurry.She rushed inside,gave him a quick glace and smiled.He moved aside for her.He kept looking at her while she used the machine.Nothing much had changed in her.She was still the bubbly effervescent girl he had known years ago.Her petite demure,innocent eyes and childish smiles had always charmed him.She was done.She smiled and thanked him.He smiled back.She moved out.She didn't recognize him anymore..his fear had come true.

Back in her cab,she tried to fight back tears.She was flooded with memories.He had brought her home from the mental hospital where he worked as a doctor.He had cared for her and loved her unconditionally.The one month she had spent with him had been the best of her life.But she knew her happiness was short lived.Her mental illness was too much for her to handle.Her memory failed her everyday.She kept forgetting her identity.She would forget him too.He knew that as well.She didn't want him to face that torture.He deserved a good life.So she had done what she thought was best that time..run away.

He was now married with kids.And she was happy for him.

To the sleeper by my side

2009-04-17T19:18:00.000+05:30

I talk in my sleep No doubt!
I am crazy ,nuts and insane
Something within me grows deep
Grasping and breathless
A little dishonest,promises to break.

In the day,you hide,busy, getting on with your life
And I stay Silent, waiting for the night
And then comes my chance
You talk, just as I like…and I reply,
To the thoughts-To the sleeper At my side!

(courtesy,disastermanagement@blogspot.com)

When I read the poem last night, little did I know the sleeper by my side this morning would be a kitten..

Wassup doc?

2009-04-13T11:05:00.000+05:30

Okay,this post is only here because most doctors don't blog(considering I only know one as of now who does).So the chances of my doctor finding out that he's made his way here, in my post, are less.Therefore I can take all liberty to distort..err..report the truth.

Now let me give you an idea about my doctor.He's 29,a serious person,decent looking with a hint of attitude.He talked less in my previous sessions with him,unless it was something very important.Yesterday when he told me that I have to be stitched up again because the wound hadn't healed I got a little upset.I seriously didn't want to go though it all again.He must have noticed that because while I waited in his cabin for the attendants to set the table,he tried to have a small talk with me.And this is how it went:

Doc:Are you upset?
I:(forcing a smile) Yes a little.I feel scared to go through it all again.
D:Don't worry.This one's going to be small.A few stitches and thats it.
I:Okay.
D:You are a brave girl.And you have got a nice sense of humor.I was surprised to see you joke even during the stitching.
I:Thank you.I was just trying to keep my calm.

He took a deep breath and continued

D:So Indu,you are 23 right?
I:No,I'm 22.
D:But your dad said you are 23.
I:Dad got it wrong then,he gets it wrong many a times.Anyway I am 22.And I'm not lying about it.
D:Well 22,23 hardly makes a difference.What are your plans for now?
I:Work for some years and then do an MBA.
D:Good.But you,must be getting marriage proposals too i guess?
I gave him a look and laughed it off..No,i mean yes,a few.But I don't intend to go for it this soon.It will wait some more years.And luckily even my parents too feel the same.
D:Okay.But never marry a doctor.
I was surprised at the sudeness of it.
I:And why is that?
D:Well,they have got no social life.Too busy with calls,patients and the hospital.

I thought of Scrubs,ER,even the crappy Dil Mil gaye..Why,the doctors there seemed to have a lot of fun?

I:Hmm..Never mind.It's a good job.You are always in demand.Every morning you have people waiting for you.
D:Yea,you are right.There's a lot of satisfaction in this profession.The other day I went to a party and a lady collapsed.I checked her and knew exactly what had gone wrong.I always carry some medicines around in my car.I gave her a shot and she sprang up.You should have seen the awe,the admiration in the eyes of 200 people. I had never seen him so enthusiastic before.
I:Great.That feeling must be awesome.I said trying to match up to his enthu.

Silence

D:Do you socialize?
I:A lot in fact.I am a social butterfly.What about you?
D:I was a late bloomer,he said grinning.In fact I am old enough to get married now.My parents are looking for an alliance for me.
I:Oh, thats nice.Why don't you try to find some one from your profession,that should be ideal I guess.
D:Oh no no no no.We won't have any life then.She would move out,when I come in.
I:But I know people in the profession who are happily married.
D:Exceptions.

He paused while I wondered where the conversation was heading.

D:So,would you marry a doctor if at all,some day?

Oh! I got it ..Tricky question and he was yet to put the needles on my head.
I smiled.
I:Well if he's the right guy,then maybe yes.
D:And how would you know he's the right guy?

Fortunately then the attendant entered and said everything was set.I was only glad that the conversation ended.

The stitch went fine..I hope so..

Back in his cabin after the stitching.

D:So was that your number,the one you called from, the other day?
I:Not sure,could have been my dad's.
D:Okay, give me a call tomorrow and tell me how you feel.
I:Sure,what time?
D:Anytime.
I:Anytime?Oh kay.
Now this guy,i remember had sounded thoroughly pissed with a caller while he was talking to my dad the other day.He had even grumbled on how people choose the oddest of hours to disturb him.
D:Better still I shall give you a ring.Is that okay? He said bringing me back from my thoughts.
I:You have my number?I asked thorougly surprised.
D:Yea..I mean if it's that number u had called from.Would you mind giving it to me again?
I:Okay.Here it is. I said noting it down for him on a paper.
D:So,is it okay if i call you?
I:Yes sir,it's a doctor calling his patient after all.I said stressing on the doctor-patient relationship.
D: Of course.

He smiled.

I:See you then.Thank you.
D:Come on Thursday.You should be okay by then.
I:Sure.Bye.

And then I was taken aback by what he did.He grinned and waved me a bye.

10 mins later my cell beeped and I got this text,"With my 1 heart,2 eyes,7 ltr blood,206 bones,4.5 million red blood cells,60 trillion DNAs I wish for you to get well soon :)"

Sweet..but I guess I need to eat an apple everyday now.. :D

Wanted dead or alive

2009-04-11T09:29:00.000+05:30

illeenreflects.blogspot.com/

WANTED FOR THE INTENSE MAN-HANDLING of a GLAMOROUS KITTEN

$2800

What's Your Blog Wanted For?

Created by OnePlusYou

Found this in a friend's blog.Took it and this is what I am guilty of.

Guess,What goes around,must come around.. *sigh*

The Proboscis monkey

2009-04-02T09:03:00.000+05:30

S :How u doing girlie?

I:Well u see for yourself.Some stitches here and there and the nose is swollen.

S:Well,you still look cute,just like the xmas girls.Only the red cap is replaced by a white bandage.

I:But what about the nose?

S:*looks a while and smiles*well your nose was too long anyway..and it was crooked too.After the accident the hunch,whatever it was,is gone.Looks better in fact.

I:And my hair..it's gone.Two things that I had always loved about me were my hair and my nose.That's so unfair..

S:Don't worry.Your hair shall grow back.Probably won't grow where your stitch is.FYI it's called a hematoma.I have one on my head too.You can always cover it up with the rest of the hair on your head

I:Yea but the problem is,my hair is already scarce on the back of my head..and now this.I better wear a wig.

S:Yea you can try being a blonde or brunette for a change.

I:Hmm..right.Btw,Y was here.He got me flowers and chocolates.But said i look like a proboscis monkey.

S:A what?

I:Come i shall show you on the net.

Googled.

S:hehe..The monkey looks funny and yea..somewhat like u now.

I:Not funny.You said i still look cute.

S:Well..yea.Probo looks cute too.One of a kind,will stand out in a crowd.

I:Herd,not crowd.I corrected

S:Yea whatever.And you look more like the borneo ones.Read this..Borneo's flamboyant primates are famous for having big noses.What you donot know about them is they are graceful,they can swim and they are in danger.

I:Oh..Danger..Then it's not me.I'm not in danger.But I agree with the graceful part..

S looks up from the monitor to me.She gives a wicked grin.

S:Actually I think you are.Now that you are in a liquid diet,I'm going to have all the chocolates Y gave you.

I:No..you won't

S:Oh yea..i will.She opened the fridge and got the big pack out.

I:It's got lotsa calories..You need to lose.What about your diet?

S holds back and looks at herself guiltily. "Okay I shall have one and carry the rest home.It's for me and Baby(her sis)"She says flashing her white teeth.

I:Uff..Leave some for me please..

S left me a piece,and trust me that was really considerate of her.

This post is dedicated to my friends who are a real support to me in such bad times and are trying their best to cheer me up with chocolates,flowers,cards,fruits,visits,wishes,compliments,a kind word and prayers.Thank you so much and love you all.As of now I'm getting the nose pack off my face today.I guess this would be the end of my days as a proboscis..

..did u just say,not as a monkey? :D

As random as it gets..

2009-03-25T22:45:00.000+05:30

Wohi Puraani Nayi Kahaani
Bachpan Se Jawaani
Dekhe The Pehle Jawaani Mein Sapnein
Dekhoge Sapnon Mein Ab Tum Jawaani

Bolo To Bolo Na Bolo Zara
Hota Hai Kya Pyaar Bolo
Bolo To Bolo Na Bolo Zara
Kyon Hoon Beqeraar Bolo
Kabhi Kabhi Baithe Baithe
Kyon Kisi Ki Yaad Aa Jaati Hai
Ho Raha Hai Ab Mujhko Jaisa
Kuch Zara Sa Tumko Bhi Waisa
Ho Raha Hai Kya

Nahin Nahin Kabhi Nahin
Aisa Waisa Kuch Nahin Hona Dena
Dekho Dekho Dil Nahin Khone Dena
Chodo Chodo Jaane Bhi Do
Is Baat Ko

Aise Na Tum Bolo
Bolo To Bolo Na Bolo Zara
Hota Hai Kya Pyaar Bolo
Bolo To Bolo Na Bolo Zara
Kyon Hoon Beqeraar Bolo

Kisi Ki Nazar Meherbaan Ho Rahi Hai
Lo Phir Se Tamanna Jawaan Ho Rahi Hai

Bas Mein Na Ho Jo Apne
Wohi Jawaani Hai
Ya Phir Woh Tere Mere
Dil Ki Kahaani Hai
Lagta Hai Koyi Apna
Youn Hi Kisi Ko
Sab Se Badi To Iski
Yeh Hi Nishaani Hai
Dil Mera Youn Ab Chaahe Jisko
Pyaar Sa Youn Mujhse Bhi Usko
Ho Raha Hai Kya

Nahin Nahin Kabhi Nahin
Aisa Waisa Kuch Nahin Hona Dena
Dekho Dekho Dil Nahin Khone Dena
Chodo Chodo Jaane Bhi Do
Is Baat Ko

Aise Na Tum Bolo
Bolo To Bolo Na Bolo Zara
Hota Hai Kya Pyaar Bolo
Bolo To Bolo Na Bolo Zara
Kyon Hoon Beqeraar Bolo

Yeh Rasta Zara Sa Naya Hai Tamanna
Zara Dekh Le Na Ke Rukna Kahan Hai
Aur Chalna Kahan Hai
Kahan Largharana Sambhalnna Kahan Hai

Is Raaste Par Ab To Chalte Hi Jaana Hai
Chaahe Yeh Duniya Keh De Mujhko Deewana Hai
Tumse Shuru Huwi Hai
Tumpe Hi Ab Khatam
Meri Kahaani Mera Har Ek Fasaana Hai
Lag Raha Hai Ab Mujhko Aisa
Kuch Tumhe Bhi Thoda Sa Waisa
Lag Raha Hai Kya

Haan Kaho Tamanna..

Nahin Nahin Kabhi Nahin
Aisa Waisa Kuch Nahin Hona Dena
Dekho Dekho Dil Nahin Khone Dena
Chodo Chodo Jaane Bhi Do
Is Baat Ko

Aise Na Tum Bolo
Bolo To
Chodo Na
Bolo Zara
Hota Hai Kya Pyaar Bolo
Bolo To Bolo Na Bolo Zara
Kyon Hoon Beqeraar Bolo

Kabhi Kabhi Baithe Baithe
Kyon Kisi Ki Yaad Aa Jaati Hai
Ho Raha Hai Ab Mujhko Jaisa
Kuch Zara Sa Tumko Bhi Waisa
Ho Raha Hai Kya

Bolo To Bolo Na Bolo Zara

Nahin Nahin Kabhi Nahin
Aisa Waisa Kuch Nahin Hona Dena
Dekho Dekho Dil Nahin Khone Dena

Khone Aur Paane Ke Beech
Pal Bhar Ka Faasla Hai
Inkaar Mat Karo, Aage Bado
Thaam Lo Uska Haath
Warna Tumhaara Inkaar Mera Intezaar Ban Jayega
Main Aage Badna Chaahta Hoon
Dekhna Chaahta Hoon Pyaar Ke Is Mod Ke Aage Kya Hai
Aage Bado

Shabd..A tale of Ryan,Lizzie and T

Sunset

2009-03-18T13:12:00.000+05:30

Tring tring.. tring tring..

"Hello"

"Hello Ryan" the voice was shaky..

"Liz..You alright?"

"hmm..hmm.."the voice cracked..

"Are you crying?"

"No.." She said breaking into a cry.

"Why are you crying?cmon.. tell me."

"Can you meet me now..Please.." she managed to say among continued sobs..

He rushed to her hostel.She was waiting for him at the gate.She looked very fragile and in a bad state.As soon as she saw him,she ran up to him and flung her arms around his neck.She didn't care if anybody looked.He didn't care either.He could feel his heart melt.He could never see her cry.He gently stroked her head and ran his fingers down her hair.She held on to him tightly and cried her heart out.

He realized he must get hold of his emotions..he was the man after all.He gently pulled her away and looked into her teary eyes."What happened,Liz?"

She hesitated and then in a feeble voice she said,"Was feeling lonely"

"You looked happy to me last time.And, T is a really nice guy.Did anything go wrong between the two of you?"

"No..everything is fine.I am happy."

"Are you?"

"I am trying to..I have made many friends.And T looks after me well.He loves me too."

"Then why do you look so unhappy?"

"I am not unhappy"she raised her voice a bit."..I was just missing you."

"I can't be there for you forever you know.."

"But you said you will.."

She looked at him with begging eyes.She saw his eyes go soft.She saw love in them.But then it was gone.
"You are one hell of a crazy person Liz."

"Shh.."she put a finger on his lips.
She took his hand in hers.It was warm.She loved the feeling. "Let's go for a walk" she said.

She loved taking walks with him.She loved it when he was by her side.They walked on silently..the only sounds being that of the dry leaves that got crushed under their steps.She loved the sound of it.

She stopped walking as they reached the top of a mound.They sun was the shade of crimson red and was about to fade out into the horizon.She sat down on a bench.He came and sat next to her.She took his hands and kissed them and closed her eyes.

..The water of the sea played at her feet.The sun was going down.She was oblivious of the crowd around her.She was lost in him.It felt like heaven.It was like coming back home to be with him.

Ruthless and Cynical

2009-03-11T17:12:00.000+05:30

"I am no longer in love with you.I am sorry I don't know how to say it,but thats the truth."

"Oh..Why?You like somebody else?"

"Hmm..Thats immaterial.But somehow I don't feel for you the way I used to"

"Who is she?"

"She is in my office.I don't know her yet.But she looks divine.I feel like a school boy when i see her"

"Ridiculous"

"You are not mad at me,i hope.Would you take it well?"

"Yes..Of course.I have guys waiting for me.What do u think?"

"Really?Who all?"

"I'll introduce you to them when the time comes.Tell me,do you need help with the girl..?"

"No,tell me about the guys..Is it M?"

"Yes he and a couple of rich guys who are willing to spend on me."

"Thats what you are,a gold digger,aren't you?"

"No and yes.When I had liked you,I was not..but now that we are done,why not?" she said and smiled.

"You never get jealous, do u?"he asked with a mock frustration.

"With you..no.I know you too well.And especially with those lines,never."

"How should I start then if I ever have to drop the bombshell on you?"

"Well..Always start with we need to talk.."

"Ha ha..I know that.That line always means trouble."

"Yes.But I don't think you will ever use that"

"Don't be too sure.I have ne'r cheated on you,doesn't mean I won't"

"Yea..you can.But you won't"

"But you will,wont you? You are wicked.."

"Thats what you fell for,my wickedness.Else you had all the Plain Janes,why me?"

"I actually was crazy about your smile.It used to be so genuine,so warm and so beautiful."

"Hmm..I am lucky that my smile acts as a cover to my hideous mind.Hadn't you heard that looks can be deceptive?"

"Yes,I realized it later.Now your smile is all plastic and fake.You can't fool me anymore."

"You have been a fool for the last 5 years.Can't make a bigger fool out of you."She chuckled and poured him his tea.

"What did you like in me?"

"Well,you looked sinister.And thats what attracted me.But then like I said,looks can be deceptive,I was in for a big disappointment."

"So what?I am a good person.It's hard to come by one these days."

"True..Maybe thats why we are still together.We balance each other well."

"Yes.But am I not cynical?"

"Yes, you are.You are pessimistic,sarcastic and caustic."

He seemed content with the answer.

"If i had to put you in one word,it would be Ruthless.."

"Ruthless..hmm..That reminds me,it's your turn to do the dishes tonight."

"Cmon,no..The water is so cold...He saw her giving a wicked smile."I hate you.."

"I know.Got some surprises stored for you when you are done."she moved closer to him and whispered seductively.

His frown turned into a wide grin.

"10 mins"

One enchanted evening

2009-03-04T21:38:00.001+05:30

"One plate chicken fried rice,One plate veg chowmein,One chicken manchurian,One chicken clear soup.Now place your order." He said looking up from the menu to her.

"What?Am i going to pay for all this and more?Can you finish it off all by yourself?"she said looking amazed.

"Yes of course.And I am not going to share my chicken with you.Not a bit of it."

"Why don't you order prawns.I want to have prawns."

"I hate prawns..Tum apna order karo."

*****
"Why did you order the veg hot and sour soup if you can't have it?"

"I didn't know it was going to be this hot.."she said slurping her soup with watery eyes.

"That's always the problem with you.You order more than you can chew.I am going to finish it off for you.Else they wont serve us dinner" he said and snatched the bowl from her and finished it off within a minute.

"Yours was better than mine"

Burp

****
"I am not going to that interiors.I am opting out of the job."

"But you can save a lot of money there."

"I want to spend my money.I want to spend it on girls..hot girls.Pune has lots of hot girls.I shall go to Pune"

"You can find simple girls in the villages.You spend on them and they will be besotted to you."

"Hmm..I don't mind a simple girl as long as she has a mind of her own.99 percent of the girls I know do not have a mind of their own."

She looks at him.He looks at her and smiles,"Not even you."

"Really?"

"I am not saying, you are not intelligent.Your problem is you are an altruist."

"How is that a problem?"

"You are so good because you want to please everybody"

"I have a mind of my own.And i decide not to drop you back home.I am leaving." she said and started her scooty,pretending to leave.

He kept smiling."You are just like Monica.And she tried to please everybody."

"Monica,who?"

"Monica from F.R.I.E.N.D.S"

"What are you?"

"I am 80 pc Ross and 20 pc Chandler."

She didn't retort.She never did.She liked it when he acted like the bitter voice giving his opinion.Not that she bought it.

****
"Are you seeing somebody?"

"Yes.He's a very good guy.But I am not sure if i want to be with him."

"Of course.Not all can be as charming and cool as me." he said and searched his pockets for a cigarette.

"Ab kya karen,tum to nahi pate" she joked.He laughed and nodded his head.He turned the other way and lit his cigarette.

After two puffs."Go for him.You need some one who's emotional and sensitive like you."

"I don't think so.Two emotional persons will have the house flooding."

"A bold and fun loving guy is only nice to hang around with, simple and sensitive guys are marriage material."

"Okay.I shall keep that in mind."She stopped the vehicle on the intersection near his place where he always used to get off.
"Good bye Ryan."

"Good bye Lizzie"

He got off the car.She saw him cross the road and get lost in the crowd.

She didn't want to change for him,even if it meant not having her own mind.
She knew her feelings for him,and so did he.Acknowledging it was a different thing.She wiped the one single tear that had formed in her left eye and now threatened to roll.But she was happy.She was happy to have just spent the evening with him..probably the last.

Tagged

2009-03-04T10:00:00.000+05:30

This tag is a very musical one.. and it has been put together after a lot of thought.Underneath is a list of 10 of my favourite hindi songs and and another of 10 of my english favourites.I thank krazywordsmith for this tag.

List of hindi numbers:

1>pyaar kiya to darna kya

2>Pukarta chala hoon main

3>rajnigandha phool tumhare

4>rim jhim gire sawan

5>aane waala pa l

6>pehla nasha

7>Tujhme rab dikhta hai

8>rehna tu

9>teri deewani

10>humein itna pyaar-jal

There are two other songs that could have gone into the list

11>woh lamhey

12>tumse hi din

list of english songs

1>You say it best when you say nothing at all

2>save the best for last

3>love will keep us alive

4>fields of gold

5>I say a little prayer for you

6>whiskey in the jar

7>speak softly love

8>my heart will go on

9>hotel california

10>love is blue

there are two more songs that need to go int the list:

11>rebel heart-the corrs

12>because i love you

Tag's open to anybody who wants to take it.Just lemme know you have taken.

cupid's dead-finale

2009-02-28T14:19:00.001+05:30

The Wind chime story

"So i didn't gift her anything.. and i am a Kanjoos :P.. but hey did i tell you about the 8gb transcend flash drive i sent her..?

Btw,the wind chime is beautiful.Isn't it?"

His words mocked her.He knew how to shock her.I am not going to be jealous,she thought.

She commented back,"It looks like old cds hung from strings.It's ugly"

What she didn't add,"Next time you want to fool me with such pictures,make sure you choose one on page 15 and not on page 2 of google images"

And she smiled in contentment. :)

cupid's dead-3

2009-02-24T22:22:00.000+05:30

Stupid Cupid

chaliya chaliya chaliya
ruh chura lun main hun aisi chaliya
chaliya chaliya,oo chaliya
hosh uda lun
main hun aisi chaliya
os leher hun
dhup seher hun
pak meher hun..
bachke..

Hello
Why did u pick up the phone?
What ?I shouldn't have taken the call?You have been calling for the last couple of days and i was always asleep by then..so i was curious.Did you have any work?
Did I ever have any work with you?
No
I just thought i would listen to the caller tune once before i sleep.But you picked up the phone.
Well,so hang up.
No..Now that i have called i'll talk.You still sound like a kid over phone,esp when you talk this soft.
So?
So..nothing.We can talk for 10 mins at the max..in fact 9 mins 20 secs to be precise...oh 9 mins 18 secs now..
How are you?
I am good.I had a great day.I completed my assignment before time.And..for the first time i got a parcel,a gift.
Oh,from new girl?
What do you mean new girl?Her name is Sanghamitra.She sent me a wind chime.
Sad,the gift reached late..Vday was about a week back.I am sure,you wouldn't have gifted her anything.

He grins.

Ya.I didn't.
Kanjoos

silence.

Can you guess what song's playing now?
No.sounds familiar though..what track is it?Some new telgu song?
Dil tod ke na ja,muh mod ke na ja..Pyaar ke side effects

The song plays on for some more mins.She listens.

Okay.The next song is for you.But before that lemme tell you,that the call may end anytime.So goodnight.Take care.Sweet Dreams.

Tum ho toh,
gata hai dil Tum nahin,
toh geet kahan Tum ho toh,
hai sab hasil Tum nahin,
kya hai yahan Tum ho toh hai,
sapno ke jaisa hasin Ek samaa Jo tum ho toh,
yeh lagtha hai Ke mil gayi har khushi Jo tum na ho,
yeh lagtha hai Ke har khushi mein hai kami
Tumko hai mangthi Yeh zindagii….
Huuuuu……

He sings along..looks at the watch 10,9,8,7,6,5,4,3,2,1..

Damn...why doesn't the call end?Shit,i wish i had more balance..God,I need a phone.

And then the call suddenly ends.
She laughs..and goes back to sleep.

cupid's dead-2

2009-02-15T11:28:00.001+05:30

Midnight Tales

He always read her blog.That was the only way he had an access to her mind..through her posts.She had snapped off all ties,shunned him completely from her life.He was yet to know why.Her unpredictability had been the only thing predictable about her all the while.He could never really read the happiness that splashed from her beautiful smile,the secrets she hid beneath those twinkling eyes,the sadness she chose to conceal through her bubbly and cheery self.She was to him an enigma,a jigsaw puzzle whose pieces he was trying to fit.The mystery attached to her attracted him and he loved her with a passion he had never known before.A passion that was driving him mad,pushing him to his limits..but he loved this madness too.

When he read those lines he was surprised.He was left thinking for a minute,for he couldn't place where he had written them.When he read further,memories of the cd came flooding in.He had gifted it to her,the first time they had met.He had actually rehearsed his lines hoping to make a lasting impression.Her brilliance,ready wit and amazing humor had set her apart from the many girls he had talked to and he had fallen for that charm.After six months of online courtship,he had longed to see the face of the person he was in love with..

One look at her and he had been dumb stuck.She was cute,petite and perhaps the tiniest thing he had seen.(though she had violently reacted to the 'tiniest' reference and had threatened him with dire consequences).He'd forgotten his lines and had mostly smiled through the conversation.Her eyes had lit up as she talked,her hands had swayed to her thoughts and her laugh had echoed in his ears.It still echoed in his ears..

He was rooted to his seat.There was a smile on his face,a little mist in his eyes.There was one hour left to valentine's day.He had to talk to her.. this once,atleast once.He called her up.Kareena kept crooning to the chaliya chaliya number. 10 calls later,a meek voice said,"Hello."
The voice had been the same,sweet but the chirpiness was missing.
"How are you?"
"Good...And you?"
"Never been better.."
"Doesn't sound right."
"Ne'r been bet-teh,does it sound rt now?"

Ha..sarcastic,he thought.He had decided to talk to her for only some mins,she had decided to end the call soon.But once they talked,they kept talking and when they talked there was magic.The spell had been cast and minutes stretched onto hours till her cell went dead.He looked at the watch,4.30 am.He had 5 hours to his valentine's date with the new girl he was seeing.

He switched off his mobile and closed his eyes.
He knew he was charmed.

cupid's dead-1

2009-02-12T16:53:00.000+05:30

Valentine

To
An angel who was sent
like a morning star
lighting a place called hell
and a devil called $illuminati$

Like a candle in the wind,you will never fail
as the sunset approaches and the rain sets in;
candle may burnout with time,
but legend will live FOREVER

She looked at those words on the cd that he had gifted to her some years back,the first gift from him.It was a collection of her favourite songs.She had listened to it over and over all night. Life was indeed beautiful then. She smiled,and put the cd back in its case.She knew there was going to be no legend.Some things just change with time,she had changed with time.

And she whispered,"Happy valentine's.Life is beautiful still"

The road across

2009-01-31T17:27:00.000+05:30

She looked at the sky.It was getting dark..might rain.She looked at her children,all famished,running around her.All day they had been scouting for food,feeding on left overs or on offerings of some kind person.The children played around,five of them.The youngest one had snuggled close to her.He didn't liked being poked around by his siblings.I must get them to a place to shelter them from the rain.They might not survive the cold otherwise.

She looked across to the other side of the road.Across the road was a shop,with a tarpaulin sheet extending towards one of the sides.I can take the kids there.That would keep us dry.She looked onto the road.Vehicles kept zooming past.She had crossed the road before but never with the kids.She thought it wise to let them grow a bit older to understand the traffic.But today she had no choice.She again looked up.It had already started to drizzle.Everybody was hurrying to look for shelter.

She gathered the kids around her.
"Now kids, listen to me very carefully.Stay close to me.okay?We cross together.Walk with me."
The kids nodded in unison.

As they got ready to cross the road,she said a silent prayer.She looked across both sides of the road.She saw no vehicles approaching.
"NOW"
The kids moved ahead with their mother.They were half way across when she saw a car coming their way in full speed."STOP"she yelled.The kids stopped,but the youngest one had already marched ahead.And then,there was a loud whine and the kid was plastered on the road,before their eyes.

She and the kids looked on shocked.A gasp left her.They ran across to him.Nothing remained of him.The kid had been mowed down completely.Two tears left her eyes.A car kept honking and she knew she had no time to grieve.Stifling her tears, said"Let's move"..

The story teller

2009-01-13T20:34:00.000+05:30

Megha looked at the almost empty compartment.It made her uneasy..She scanned the entire train and found only one other woman,an old lady..Mom would have never allowed me to travel alone in the night, like this.I should have listened to her and booked my tickets in the bus,she thought.She had to be back in college the next day for the new semester.She had never expected Tapaswini express,the only train connecting Bhubaneswar and Rourkela to be so scarcely filled.My luck,she cursed under her breath.

Megha was alone in her coupe.There were still 5 mins before the departure.She hoped desperately for a co-passenger,hopefully a girl.That would give her some strength,some comfort. She looked out of the window,onto the platform.A girl was dragging along a huge box towards the train.Megha couldn't believe her eyes.She looked on with anticipation.Maybe she could ask the girl to join her,in her coupe.As she thought so,she saw the girl getting up on her compartment.The girl looked disappointed on seeing the empty berths.But then she saw Megha.

"I guess we are the only girls travelling tonight,unless you count the old lady snoring there"Megha said smiling at her.
"It's unusual.Isn't it?" the girl said as she settled down in the berth opposite Megha.
"Yes.I heard people outside say it's Navami puja tonight and is considered inauspicious for travelling.How far are you going?"
"I am travelling till Sambalpur"
"Oh,I'll be going till Rourkela"Megha said ,her voice giving away her disappointment.
"Never mind,it's just two hours from Sambalpur.I guess,I'll give you company till Rourkela and catch a morning bus back to Sambalpur."
"Oh no..That would be fine"
"I Insist" the girl said and flashed a wide smile.
"By the way I'm Megha."
"I am Surabhi"

The train slowly rolled into motion. As they chatted away for the next few hours,Megha found Surabhi to be a very interesting and delightful person.She was further surprised to know that Surabhi had been in her college some years back.She found in Surabhi a reflection of her own self.We would have made great friends had we met earlier.We still can be good friends",she thought and smiled.

The train had crossed Sambalpur.They had only one more hour left together.
"So Surabhi,tell me something interesting about you."Megha asked trying to get to know her a little more closely.
"Interesting..like what?"
"Like..anything fun..anything that you are good at..maybe something that makes you different ..interesting.." Megha said.
Surabhi looked staright into Megha's eyes.
Suddenly Megha felt the warm brown eyes of her friend go glassy and that almost froze her insides.
Surabhi looked away and smiled."I am a story teller"
"A story teller..really?Thats interesting"Megha said regaining her composure."What kind of stories do you tell and to whom?"
Surabhi paused.
"Wierd ones,you know.Basically ghost stories to anybody who showed interest.But since no one,who volunteered had the patience to sit through till the end,I have given it up for good."
"Oh come on,you shouldn't let others decide for you.If you know you have an art,you should never give it up."Megha said encouragingly.
"Thank you"Surabhi said and smiled.So would you like to listen to a story?"she asked eagerly.An unusual glow had come over her face.A happiness,an excitement that was giving away her previous demeanour
"Oh sure.Go ahead."
"You sure won't be scared?"
"Nope,Even if it's scarier than the one about the ghost haunting my hostel room"Megha joked.

Surabhi laughed and cleared her throat.She had a dreamy look on her face as she started.

..This is the story of a ten year old girl.She was an orphan.And worse,she was ordinary,thin and plain.No one who came to the orphanage to pick kids ever chose her.All her friends who had been with her,went off to nice and wealthy homes.Even kids,younger to her.That filled her with grief and self hatred.She longed for a home,longed to be loved.She hated the orphanage.She hated the warden,who beat her.The cook who was looking for a chance to violate her..

Megha felt herself transported into a completely different world.She found herself inside the orphanage.She could see a young girl,the warden and the cook in the warden's office.The girl was crying and complaining about the man.She in turn got more beatings.The cook had a sly smile on his face.Megha felt anger growing inside her.She jumped at the man but nothing happened.She was just a shadow,the rest all seemed oblivious of her presence.

..And then she found a lady taking a look at the girl.The face of the lady looked familiar,but she couldn't place where she had seen her.The lady offered to take the girl with her.The girl saw hope.Next she saw,the lady and the girl,go inside a prayer hall.It was then Megha recalled the lady.She was one of the ex headmasters of her college and the prayer hall was the one in their dorm.Megha had seen her picture in the principal's study,along side all previous principals.

"What's your name girl?"the kind lady asked.
"Juti.Thats what they called me there"the girl said pretty numbed
"Don't worry.We'll give you a new name.It's a new start for you from today.Leave your past behind.And let the blessings of god fill your life with it's light and fragrance.Welcome to your new home,Surabhi."

At this point,Megha was jolted back to reality and opened her eyes.It was nearing dawn and the train had slowed down.She could see lights at the distance.The train would be reaching Rourkela in some time.She looked around for Surabhi,but she was no where to be seen.She looked around the compartment,in the toilets.The passengers were slowly getting up,still half sleepy.She returned to her seat.She looked below her seat,to check for Surabhi's luggage.The heavy wooden box was still there.She gasped aloud as she took a closer look at the box.There inscribed in gold was a name plate

Surabhi(1996-2000)
Room No-102,
Sarojini Hostel,
North Campus,
NIT Rourkela

..not even if it's scarier than the one about the ghost haunting my room..echoed in her mind.

The Invitation

2008-12-30T21:50:00.000+05:30

Anjali looked at the invitation.Letters in red stared at her.The swastika,the silver embellishments,letters embossed in gold seemed to be mocking her.She stood silent,a tinge of guilt filling her insides.Her name could have been there with Kunal.But she had made the choice,hadn't she?She kept the card on the table and was lost in thoughts,of times when Kunal and she were still there in school.

..Anjali looked out of the classroom window towards the school playground.The match was about to start.It was the finals of the inter school football tournament and Kunal was leading the school team. She should have been there on the field cheering.But only the senior classes had been allowed to view the match.Just when she was hoping to find a way to get out,a sharp stroke of the cane brought her back into the class.
"Anjali,out of the class.."screamed her teacher.

Was she glad?Anjali rushed to the football field.The opponent team had moved in.As the home team entered the field there was a loud uproar from the crowd.Kunal moved in with his boys.Girls were going crazy shouting his name.Kunal,school prefect,head of the literary society,captain of the football team was a stud.He played football as brilliantly as he performed at his exams.Anjali tried to make her way through the crowd to the front row.She waved her hands in air cheering him.Kunal gave one quick glance and smiled at the crowd..Or did he smile at her?Anjali thought.
They went on to win the match.

Back in the staff common room as Anjali waited for her mom to finish up some extra work,Kunal entered.Teachers patted him and he humbly thanked them all.He made his way towards Anjali and sat down on the bench next to her.Anjali had been waiting for this,the only time during the day she got to talk to him was after school when they and their mothers walked back home.
"You played well.Congrats!"Anjali said beaming.
"Thanks Anju.You did a good job cheering"Kunal smiled back.
The conversation ended as their mothers arrived.Kunal usually spoke less,especially with girls.He maintained an attitude well aware that girls adored him.

Anjali always felt Kunal talked to her more than any other girl.Was it because he liked her or was he just being nice to her,she couldn't tell.As they walked down the road,Kunal suddenly looked at her and asked,"Okay Anju,would you be free this Saturday afternoon?"
Anjali looked up surprised"Yes,why?"
"I wanted to take you to the prom.It's our farewell party and I would like you to be my dance partner"Kunal said looking straight into her eyes.
"But thats only for seniors,isn't it?I won't be allowed"Anjali said,trying to make sure it wasn't a joke.
"No,we are free to choose our partners.And you would be with me,so that won't be a problem?"Kunal said with an air.
"Yes,if mom allows?"Anjali said.
"I'll talk to her.Thanks"Kunal said.
"Thanks."Anjali couldn't believe her luck.Kunal must really like her to ask her to the dance.

They went to the dance that Saturday.Anjali was met with many pairs of envious eyes that followed her everywhere she went.Kunal and she had a lovely dance together.She was completely taken by his charm and wonderful looks.Every touch of his' filled her with delight.After the dance Kunal left her alone to join his friends for sometime.

Anjali felt really awkward in there.Nobody talked to her,most girls giving her crossed looks.She decided to go back home.She looked for Kunal.She found him at a corner talking with his friends.As she approached him,she could hear some of their conversation..
"So Kunal,why did you ask that duck to the prom?"asked one of his friends.
"Yea.It's very surprising.We all thought you would ask Nisha out"said another.
"Yes,thats what I'd planned earlier.But I changed my mind.Nisha was so sure that I would ask her out and she had started throwing an attitude.I hate females with attitude"Kunal said with iciness in his voice.
"What about your duck,you like her?"
"No way..But,the kid adores me.I thought I would surprise her with a gift before i pass out.She must be feeling really lucky"Kunal said and laughed.The others joined in.

Tears were rolling down Anjali's eyes.The guy she idolized was mocking at her feelings.She left the hall and decided never to set eyes on him again.

So 8 years later when she got a marriage proposal from Kunal's family Anjali was surprised.She had forgotten all about him.She had made up her mind,but decided to meet the guy one last time.Kunal had graduated from a business school while she had gone ahead to study medicine.Her parents were in favour of the alliance.
Kunal arrived at the coffee shop with a bouquet of flowers.He had matured but looked as stunning as he did in school.
"Hi.You look so different, beautiful"Kunal said with his usual charm
"Thank you.You look matured."Anjali said forcing a smile.
There was a pause.And Kunal started,his voice serious,"You ran away from the prom that night.And you never talked to me again.Would you please tell me,why?"
"I heard you talk about the duck"she said smiling.
Kunal looked on in silence for sometime and said,"I guess I know your answer.But I would like to say,that you are the only girl I have ever loved.I just wanted to shield you from all the bickering because I was not sure if you could take it.You were still in junior high then.But I knew I had to go the prom with you"
"I wasn't better off anyway,but thanks for your concern.It's comforting"She said careful not to fall into his smooth talks this time.
Kunal looked disappointed.Was it genuine or fake,she couldn't tell.

She looked again at the card.Whether she made a mistake or she made the right decision,she still couldn't tell.It was late and she didn't complain.She adjusted her saree,took the bouquet in her hands and headed for the wedding.

Kuch Meetha Ho Jaye..

2008-12-24T23:28:00.000+05:30

With romance going digital and love being on the fast lane,the age old art of wooing is slowly dying out.Maybe because everyone's so short of time.Men don't the time or the patience to woo women and women in turn don't have the inclination to be wooed,something that roots to feminism.It's sad to find the beautiful art of courtship dying out because some women feel it humiliating and some men feel it unnecessary,esp with demands of equality.Forget about the idea of being sweet to a stranger,without any motive.

Anyway,I am hopelessly romantic and I still believe in knights,gentlemen and all the age old conventions.I feel happy when I see any of my friends doing something sweet for their partner.Such things were common place when I was in college and it was always fun to watch.But after college I hadn't witnessed anything truly sweet until it happened today..to me.

I was returning from a friend's place in the evening..Before heading home I decided to get myself a recharge voucher.The neighbourhood shop was crowded being a small hangout for many MBA students who stay in the locality.While I was waiting for my turn I found a cute guy by my side.I gave him one casual glimpse.He smiled but I ignored and looked the other way.Rude,you might think but I was in a terrible mood after a real bad day.I paid the cash,got my voucher and headed out of the shop.I decided to take home some snacks from the nearby thela wala.While I was at the shop giving orders,the thela boy pointed behind my back.I looked back but didn't find anything.He again pointed,but towards my vehicle this time.I looked back and still didn't find anything strange.When he did it for the third time,I thought he was retarded.Just then another person at the shop tapped me and asked me to look back.when I looked back,almost irritated by then,I could see a guy waving to me from the other side of the road.He was on his bike with his helmet firmly on his head.I could make out he was the guy from the shop.He pointed to my scooty.I looked down to find a chocolate bar on my seat.And below it was a paper with a big smiling face drawn on it and the words"Merry Xmas" scribbled beneath it.I looked up at him and he shouted back,"It's for you".Before I could react he zoomed off.People were looking at me and some were smiling..In my hurry to get out of there,i forgot to collect my snacks packet.It was further embarrassing when I went back to collect it..

Back home i told my mom about the incident and we both shared a good laugh..
I don't remember any stranger being so sweet to me.It surely made me smile.If only I could have said a thank you or atleast returned his smile.I hope he reads this though..*sigh*

Dodo

2008-12-20T15:56:00.000+05:30

"Hello Neha"
"Yes."
"It's Amrita here"
"Oh...What a surprise..It's been so long.How have you been doing?"
"I am fine.How you doing?"
"I am good too.." "Hey,guess what?I saw Nihit today..Is he visiting Delhi?"
"Are you sure you saw Nihit?"Neha asked surprised.
"Positive.He was ambling down South ex with some lady.I was in an auto when I crossed him.By the time I tried to catch up,he was lost in the crowd.Ask him to drop by our place."
"Oh sure..I'll."
"Bye"
"Bye"

Neha hung up and stood in silence.All her doubts and suspicions over the past few weeks have been confirmed now.Nihit had been acting suspicious since quite some time.On many occasions she had found him talking in an hushed voice over the phone.In the last few months,he had been touring a lot too.But whenever home,he was always nice to her,a bit too nice she felt.She sensed something wrong.She felt much more secured fighting him rather than resting in his cordialities.

She called up Nihit.
"How you doing?"
"I am fine sweety..How are you?"
"I'm good.Is it too cold in Bangalore?"
"Yes,a bit..But anyway I'll be back tomorrow for our anniversary.You want something from here?"
I want a divorce Neha thought..."Nothing..Come soon.Bye"

Nihit had been lying.She had never thought her marriage wouldn't last even an year.Hot tears rolled down her eyes.She was brought back from her train of thoughts when she felt something wet on her feet.Dodo,their dog was licking her.She looked out.It was time for the dog's evening stroll.She looked at the mute animal and took its strap.Neha had always disliked having pets,but Nihit adored dogs.So she had reluctantly agreed to Dodo's presence.The dog reciprocated by not showing any affection for her lest it was hungry or needed to be taken out for his walk.

Neha took Dodo out for a walk.How she hoped she would get rid of this dog ! It reminded her of Nihit.She had no idea when she had let off the strap.Suddenly even before she could realize,Dodo was under the wheels of a speeding car.Their was a howl and nothing could be heard from Dodo anymore.A man stepped out.He was young,rich and much better looking then Nihit.

"I am so sorry madam.Your dog suddenly came in front of my car.I applied the brakes but it was too late."
Neha stood speechless.
"Madam,please.I can understand your pain.I'm ready to do anything to assuage your grief."the man pleaded.
The man stood there feeling and guilty."Will you please dispose off the animal?"
"Of course.I'll see to it,that he is attended to immediately."

Neha watched the municipal guys take Dodo. The man on seeing her sorry state requested her to take her out for dinner.Neha feigned a reluctance but obliged on further insistence.She was liking all the attention this man was showering on her.After a delightful evening,the man dropped her back home.He thanked her and left his number.Neha smiled as he drove away.

The next day,Nihit was back.He surprised her with the keys to their new bungalow in Delhi.Neha had always loved Delhi more than Mumbai.So he thought that would be the perfect anniversary gift for her.He had been keeping it a secret all the while. Neha was sorry for Nihit and gifted him a stone studded watch with Dodo inscribed on it.Incidentally the man had insisted to buy her the watch after Neha told her about her anniversary and what a shock Dodo's death would be to her husband.

Dodo had died and all of Neha's problems became extinct with it.

Time for some lemonade

2008-12-17T19:34:00.000+05:30

Just yesterday one of my friends reminded me that it had been quite some time since I came up with a post.I finally had a story in mind which I thought would make for an interesting read.I hadn't checked my blog since some days.So you can imagine my surprise when I found that I have been tagged with the Lemonade award. Thanks mouli!.. If only you could have seen the smile on my face.It's my first award.And it feels great,to say the least, when you know people read your posts,like them and come back for more.

As,for the story I had in mind,it would be out shortly.But before that I want to really have a feel of the thing for some time.Here's my chance,and with all the lights upon me,I have my own speech ready.

"At the outset,I would like to thank all the readers who keep adding to the hit stats.(at least it's comforting to know that I don't account for all the clicks)
To those who leave nice comments,it's always motivating guys,Thank you..And to those who don't Thank you still for the interest you have shown.

To my regular bunch of blogger friends who keep coming up with beautiful posts giving me more ideas to feed upon.Trust me folks,I would never entirely copy your works,would definitely twirl it around a bit before i have my own.

To my friends here, who do free publicity for my blog recommending it to hapless orkutees.

To Dj,my would be publisher(a promise is a promise,dude..) who's shown immense faith in me and keeps goading me to write on till he finds his masterpiece.Sadly he always feels,it's going to be the next.. :(

To my parents,who never read my blog.Special thanks to mom,who at least tried to go through it once.

To all the people who inspire me with their intelligence and stupidity,honesty and hypocrisies,wit and grace and various other shades of human emotions..As long as you are what you are,I'll always have something to write.A big Thank you.

Well,I have got disconnected twice while I was typing out my acceptance speech.Maybe because i forgot to thank blogger.So finally Thank you Blogspot.. "

And now the rules,

# Put the logo on the blog or post
# Nominate blogs that show great attitude
# Link the nominees within the post
# Let them know that they have been tagged
# Link to the person who has nominated me

Though,there are many more whose works i read and love,people I would like to nominate for this award are :

Siba

Panda

Roshan

Mouli

Triyash

Haritha

Happy reading.. :)

An afty at the consultancy

2008-12-08T19:57:00.000+05:30

While i was dallying between ideas for my post i experienced something funny today which ultimately made it's way here. I was visiting my friend Padma,who works at a consultancy.Their consultancy deals with providing jobs to people by charging some consulting fees.Padma and I were to lunch together.And I was to pick her up for that.When i reached her office around lunch hour i found many candidates in the waiting room.Padma said she would take more time.Since she still had to interview as many as 20 candidates ,she asked me to help her with the screening so that we could wrap up things fast.Being an engineering student she asked me to shortlist the candidates for the technical jobs.Padma briefed me about the job profiles,requirements,and salaries and handed me the resumes.

I had never taken interviews before though I had been on the other side of the desk many a times.I always felt selecting a candidate as serious business.But as i found out,it's fun too.Here are some excerpts from the interviews..

Candidate 1 was an engineering student who had majored in electronics and tele communication,which incidentally was my discipline too.She had done it from one of the colleges here and wanted to apply for a cellular company which is planning to launch its services here. Let's call her P.S.

P.S :Good afternoon madam
I: Good afternoon P.S.Please have a seat.
She takes her seat and looks intently.
I start of with the normal introductory questions about her,her family,her career goals.Finally i decide to test her technical knowledge a bit.
I: You have mentioned in ur C.V that you had done your B.tech on wireless LAN and you are proficient with computer networks.How much would you rate your knowledge on the subject on a scale of 10?
P.S: 7.5
I: Thats pretty good.Can you give me the IEEE standard for wireless Lan?

Now probably that was the simplest question for anybody who was proficient in computer networks especially with a btech project on Wireless LAN.(u could say,it's the equivalent of asking a biology student the scientific name for man) She looks dazed and says she wasn't aware that such a thing existed.. Oh wow.. I decide not to harass her and ask her something simpler.So i put my next question.

I: Can u tell me how to find the area of this room?
P.S: I am sorry,I don't know.
I: Just think of some way.Give me the method or an estimate.
P.S: The room is squarish.So it's area would be 4* each side
I: That would be the perimeter.Give me the area. I said trying to help her out.
P.S: 4 *(square of each side)
I:You sure?
P.S.Yes,I'm very much confident.

I realize that even simple high school maths is beyond her scope.I decide to move to her hobbies.
I: You have mentioned listening to music as one of your hobbies.Who do u listen to?
P.S: sonu Nigam and Kishore Kumar.
I: Any female singers?
P.S:Shreya ghosal
I: Which song of hers do you like the most?
P.S: Kambhakt Ishq..
I give up.
I:Oh..alright.That would be all.Thank you.
P.S:Oh !thank you madam.

She beams at me.I return her smile.

Before leaving she turns and asks me,"by the way where do i deposit the money?"
I:excuse me?what money?
P.S:The 1.5 lakhs for the back door entry to the company you people had asked for.

I realize then the mockery of the whole interview thing.The joke was on me now..I ask her to wait outside and direct her resume to Padma. Having realized my job now,i decide to have make up interviews with the rest of the candidates.Almost all were boring till i came across this duo who had applied for a technical post in an automobile company.They were diploma holders and had some work experience.While going through their resume i found they were from my mom's native village.

I: Please have your seats.
c1: Madam,please talk to us in oriya.We don't follow english.
I look on surprised.But anyway i start talking to them in oriya.

The following conversation took place in oriya.

I: So C1 tell me about yourself.
C1: I am A.P from charampa,tehsil kacheri,dist bhadrak,post bag no 2.I play cricket.
I look on to the second candidate.
C2: I am P.K from charampa,tehsil kacheri,bhadrak,postbag no 2.I play cricket.
Oh wow..I have two parrots as candidates. I took it to be their simplicity.
I: Okay C1,can u tell me something about the Mumbai blasts
C1: ooh yes.There was a bomb blast at a hotel.It was Taj
I look at second candidate and ask,"Any other place?"
C2: Yes,Marrion.
I: Come again?
I thought i had heard wrong.
c2: Marrion.
Marrion,is a hotel over here,in Bhubaneswar..Maybe he meant Marriot.. which anyway wasn't related to the terror attacks at Mumbai.
I:Anyway,your job requires you to relocate to Pune.Can you tell me where in India is Pune ?
C1:Yes,in Chennai.
C2:No madam,it's in Gujrat.

I could only smile..I wished both of them luck.I knew they would get the jobs anyway by paying for it.So i simply said"Enjoy Pune."

Runaway Train

2008-12-03T11:02:00.001+05:30

The train screeched to a halt.It was early morning,Vishakapatnam station.Indu woke up and looked out of the window,into the platform outside..Hawkers were selling hot steamed idlis for breakfast.She realized she was hungry.Her insides were gnawing.It had been hours since she had her last morsel..She checked the money she had.She took out some and again counted the remaining before putting it back carefully in her purse.She washed her face and got herself a plate.

People around her were still sleeping.The train chugged away out of the station .The roadside slums,the city,the fields slowly passed her by.The sun was not yet up.The cold morning breeze blasted her face.She felt numb when she recalled the things that had happened the day before.Running away from home had taken her a lot of courage.She had been planning this for quite some time,and finally she had gathered enough money to buy herself a ticket and get out of the place.Finally I'm free.No more worries.I wish mom saw there's more to life than just studies..would she be crying? Indu shuddered at the thought.I hope,brother would be back home to take care of her.

It was morning.People around her had got up and were busy chatting.Indu wasn't interested in talking to anybody.So she drowned herself behind a book.I wish i had chosen the upper berth.It would have been so much peaceful.There was a family and a nun in her coupe.The family had a kid who kept jumping around trying to get her attention.She was annoyed but kept quite to prevent an altercation.I will never have kids.Thank god,she will be joining an ashram.

"Where are you going,dear?"the nun asked suddenly.

Indu pretended not to hear.The nun asked again.Not to look suspicious,she looked up from her book,forced a smile and said,"Pondicherry"

"You travelling alone?"The man in the family now asked.

"Yes,I'm quite used to it.My parents will join me in Chennai."she said and returned to her book. The questions made her uneasy.She hated the unnecessary prodding.

"Would you like some cookies?I made them at home"The mother of the kid asked and handed out a tiffin to her. "Thank you.But i just had my breakfast.I'm sorry."she said refusing.The lady was disappointed.

"Can i use your berth for sometime? I'm planning to catch some sleep."Indu asked the man.

"Oh ! of course." the man said.

Indu cozyed herself on the upper berth.Finally,the barrage of questions are over.She could hear hushed voices below.They were talking about her.But she didn't care.She slept clutching her bag tightly to her.When she woke up,the family had left.The sister was reading the bible.The compartment was empty.

"Where are we?"she asked the nun.

"Somewhere near Nellore.We are a few hours from Chennai."the nun replied.

"Hmm..I was wondering if you could tell me the cheapest way to go to pondicherry."Indu asked

The nun looked at her intently.There was a pause before she said"I am going to Pondicherry.Where do you want to go there?"

"Umm...To one of the ashrams.It's not important.You just tell me how to reach Pondicherry"Indu literally demanded.
"Listen dear,you better be polite.I feel you have got something to hide.Until you answer my questions,I won't offer you any help.So you better be honest about things."the nun said sternly.

"Never mind"Indu said.Lots of thing were going in her mind.She was all alone in a completely new place with people who didn't speak her tongue.She was scared.The nun was the only person she could trust at this juncture.But she didn't want her to know that she had run away from home.

Finally the nun asked."Why have you run away from home?"

The directness of the question took Indu by surprise.She didn't pretend anymore."You won't understand.I am tired of school.I am tired of studying.And things are hard after father passed away.I'm tired of my mother crooning all day.I want to be of my own..attain peace."She said fuming.

"Hmm..How old are you?"

"I'm 15"Indu said firmly.She didn't want to sound childish.

The nun looked at her kindly.
"Okay.I'll take you where you wish to.But I have some work in chennai.so I'll attend to it first.Will you join me?"

"No problem."Indu said.She somehow felt a lot more secured now.She wasn't sure if she could trust her yet,but the thought of having someone around was comforting.

At Chennai,they went to a missionary.Indu was surprised to see so many girls there.Some of them were disabled.They were busy working around.
The nun looked at Indu and said,"I work here.This is a home for girls who have been violated or have ben deserted.I want you to meet somebody."she said.

They went inside the general ward,a home to patients.There on a bed,lay a girl of about her age.She looked sick.

"This is Charu.She is 16 years old.Some months ago,her uncle lured her to Chennai with a promise to find her some work.She was sold to flesh traders here.She was brutally tortured until she was rescued by the police.When we got her,she was in a bad shape with a missing kidney."

Indu looked on shocked.

"There are many more like Charu who go through hell everyday,because they don't have people who care for them.They are all victims of poverty.Out there,it's a bad bad world.You are on your own with nobody to care.You are lucky to have a home, people who care for you.You are lucky to go to school.Try to step into Charu's shoes once,and you would know."

Tears were rolling down Indu's eyes.She broke down into sobs.She felt homesick and wanted to be back with her mom,in the comforts of her home.The nun rested a hand on her head and tried to comfort her."Come have some food.After that,we call your home.Your mom must be worried."

Indu smiled between her sobs..The nun smiled back.

London building is falling down

2008-11-30T18:37:00.000+05:30

London Bridge Is falling down,

Falling down, Falling down.

London Bridge Is falling down,

My poor baby.

We must build it up again,

Up again, Up again.

We must build it up again,

My poor baby.

How will we build it up,

Build it up, Build it up,

How will we build it up,

My poor baby?

Build it up with iron and steel,

Iron and steel, Iron and steel.

Build it up with iron and steel,

My poor baby.

Iron and steel will bend and bow,

Bend and bow, bend and bow.

Iron and steel will bend and bow,

My poor baby.

Build it up with silver and gold

Silver and gold, silver and gold.

Build it up with silver and gold,

My poor baby.

Silver and gold will be stolen away,

Stolen away, Stolen away.

Silver and gold will be stolen away,

My poor baby.

Set a man to watch all night,

Watch all night, watch all night,

Set a man to watch all night,

My poor baby.

Suppose the man should fall asleep,

Fall asleep, fall asleep,

Suppose the man should fall asleep?

My poor baby.

Give him a pipe to smoke all night,

Smoke all night, smoke all night,

Give him a pipe to smoke all night,

My poor baby.

Here's a terrorist I have got,

I have got, I have got,

Here's a terrorist I have got,

My poor baby.

What's the terrorist done to you,

Done to you, done to you?

What's the terrorist done to you,

My poor baby.

Stole my mom and broke my neck,

Broke my neck, broke my neck,

Stole my mom and broke my neck,

My poor baby.

Take the key and lock him up,

Lock him up, lock him up,

Take the key and lock him up,

My poor baby.

Off to prison he must go,

He must go, he must go.

Then off to prison he must go,

My poor baby.

WTC,JW Marriott,Taj..what next..London Bridge?

* words in green have been used as substitute words than in the original poem.