5 reasons to shoot your pre wedding at Lodi Gardens

The Garden of Love To most of us, Delhi is the symbol of power. To many of us, Delhi is a symbol of the long historical legacy that India has. Capital of the country since the early medieval period, Delhi has enjoyed continuous importance as the status symbol even as the governments of the country changed. Bring born and brought up here, I also saw Delhi as a tourist spot. But over the years, I have realised that there’s more to Delhi than these monuments. While Delhi doesn’t have an identity of its own in terms of cultural roots, Delhi is host to a variety of cultures that have blended together to give Delhi the identity it enjoys today. In a city like Delhi, where the hustle and bustle on the roads sounds like melody once you’ve lived here long enough, the silence and peace that Lodi gardens has to offer to the city dwellers can be scaring. But when enough time is spent in this place every morning, the gardens turn out to be the perfect place for peace and solitude seekers. My Interest in Lodi Garden started young when I would be out with my camera. The place had more to offer than one could imagine. I started with photographing the structures around- their old rustic aura attracting you like a magnet. The uneven stairs, the brown walls, the rounded rooftops, the eerie windows and the green bushes that complimented the monuments were my favourite. Today, the park is more than just a weekend getaway for me. As a professional wedding photographer I often get requests to do a pre wedding shoot. Unless my clients have a preference, I suggest that we shoot at Lodi Garden! Here are the top reasons on why to do your pre wedding shoot at Lodi Garden 1) The Rustic Scene The Gardens have so many monuments that their brown uneven stone walls make the perfect backdrop for a couple’s picture. The guards at the Garden are quite hesitant to let you shoot inside the monuments so one needs to be happy with having the monuments in the background. I ask my clients to wear nice and bright shades that compliment the walls in contrast and the combination often works really well

2) The Pond of Love Apart from the monuments, the little pond in the centre of the Garden, makes an excellent element in the pictures. The water brings romance in the pictures in my opinion. Playing with reflections and sitting by the pond are some of the standard ways couples get their pictures clicked at Lodi Garden

3) A variety of landscapes Lodi Gardens provides so many landscapes that at one place itself the couples can get a host of pictures clicked- from curvy paths of the jogging tracks to lush green grass, from the pond to bridges, monuments to palm trees, bamboo sticks to secluded benches- there is no end. It’s a photographer’s paradise and so much can be done here that it is unimaginable.

4) Myriad of angles Because of the many elements available here, there is no end to experimenting with the kind of angles one can click here. I don’t refrain from getting on top of walls or lie flat on the ground. From the bridges to the grounds- the entire area is at your disposal to try so much and make your pre wedding shoot an amazing one!

5) An Established Love Paradise For some visitors, Lodi Garden is the Mecca of love, where there is enough lush and greenery to hide the public display of affection. The place is thronged by lovers of all age groups who come to spend time here as they bunk their schools, college or office, or as they wait for the nearby Khan market to open. During a pre wedding shoot, the same gets reflected in the couples for reasons unknown. Ive done a shoot in the early morning hours and ive shot under the scorching sun, but the enthusiasm of the Gardens gets injected in us and every shoot is a memorable and happy one!

So as a wedding photographer, I would really suggest that you explore the lush green expanse of Lodi Gardens for your pre wedding shoot because you will leave the place with a little bit of Lodi Gardens in your heart! About the writer: Akshita Agrawal, is an avid photographer and Delhi enthusiast. She has now started traveling across Delhi again but with a different perspective. She now looks at Delhi as an opportunity to shoot beautiful pre wedding shoots

Happy birthday to me

The most awaited day, Of the year had arrived. The date was 16th And the month was april. It was my birthday, But I hadnt turned twenty, Yet there was so much of happiness, And excitement in plenty. The day began, With a sweet surprise, When you all came to my place, Before the sun could rise. I woke up With card and flowers, You guys Wished me birthday, And gave me a hug. A precious gift, For me that was, Precious than any Gold,silver or bronze. The six of us met, And the surprises You all gave me I can never forget. A round chocolate cake Was bought for me, With “Happy Birthday akshi” Written on it. With a knife in my hand, I cut the cake, And with a part of it, You decorated my face. A beautiful gift, Was then given to me- A red coloured bag, And some cards , To open and see. For a moment, I did not know What to say, How to thank you all For this beautiful day. But now, Through this ‘thank you’ note, I want to say, Thank you all For making it a memorable day, And for celebrating it, In a very special way. May god continue To bless you all ! And angels of heaven May surround you all ! And all I can say is- I love you all!!

lucky 3

I was always taught 3 is unlucky. And I always believed 3 was unlucky. And so I moved around either in a couple or a group of 4 or more.

In carmel, I made one friend when I joined in 6th. She had another friend, making the group of 3, and it dint make me any comfortable. So like a stupid girl I went out on a venture to make a group of 4 or more. And that’s how I found my 3 musketeers at school. We had a group of 4, happy, jolly, funny, bitchy and sexy girls.

But this post isn’t about the lucky 4. Its about the lucky 3. And this happened in college when I met preeti darling on the 1st day. I was happy. I had found a girl who wasn’t really talkative and initiating. I felt secure that we’ll remain friends, a safe 2. And decided that theres no place for a third person. Call me stupid, suspicious, or even superstitious, the unlucky 3 was always a problem to me.

Little did I know, that on the 2nd day itself a third element would join the group, and that’s when kritika madame entered my universe. I let her in. couldn’t help it! She was simple, down to earth, and sweet. The three of us had natures that hit off instantaneously. We bonded, and we had an unsaid understanding that we were to be friends for the next three years. In due course i shared everything with these girls. From tiffins to secrets, I shared everything except my clothes. But what I never shared with these two girls is my insecurity of unlucky 3.

I would try all day and night, to keep in touch with both of them. Trying to ensure that I was kept in the loop. That I would become as significant a part of their lives as they were of mine. All night I hoped that tomorrow I wouldn’t have to sit alone. All day I would wish I was the ones they would ensure to click pics with me.
For the years I was happy that during the holidays I wasn’t the one who was leaving delhi, that I had 24x7 net connection and a good sms scheme to keep in touch with these 2 ladies. Call me insane, kiddish ot stupid.

But what these 2 girls taught me was that we 3 made a lucky 3, and that these 3 years made a lucky 3. Our friendship growing stronger with every day, with every exam and with every bunk. Our group grew bigger to include pushkar, shreya, mira, sid, nakul and so many people, but we 3 were inseparable. Be it in pics, in outings or night outs.

I saw the good, the bad, the ugly—the good were the trips etc, the bad were a few gloomy days, and the ugly were our marks :p—with them. They kept me going in tough times, they made me stronger and they changed my thinking.

Today I smile when I hear prêeti recounting her sms chat with kritika, or when kritika puts a profile pic with preeti. To me these are my 2 stars, and we the lucky 3.

Gandhi Smriti

Everyone knows about Porbandar, the place where the father of the nation- M.K. Gandhi was born. Everyone is aware of the famous Sabarmati ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi spent most of his life. Everyone has visited Rajghat, where the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi lay. But few have the knowledge of Gandhi Smriti- a museum in the Capital, dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. This museum is at his residence in Delhi, on 5, Tees January Marg, CP, where Gandhiji spent his last few months. It was at this residence, that Gandhiji spoke his last words ‘Hey Ram’.
On 30th January 1948, 6 months after India received independence, at 5:20 pm, Gandhiji walked from his room in this very house to his garden where the daily evening prayer took place, and thousands gathered to receive his blessings. It was in this very garden that Gandhiji was shot by Nathuram Godse, after he himself bowed down to Gandhiji to receive his blessings. The only things heard in the garden that day were a bullet shot and the words ‘Hey Ram’.
62 years since this incident, Gandhiji remains immortal in the hearts of many Indians, remembered as a man of non-violence, humility and as a fatherly figure. He taught the Indians the virtue of mankind through his preaching on untouchability, virtue of honesty and non-violence
‘Gandhi Smriti’ has tried to keep the essence of the Man alive by preserving some of his personal possessions like his watch, charkha and study table. The museum boasts of beautiful statues made to depict various moods of Gandhiji and a small mini figure museum to showcase the various aspects of his life. The catchiest place in the ‘Smriti’ is the place where Gandhiji was shot. A memorial has been made there, and footsteps have been made to depict him walking from his room to the garden. When one sees the footsteps, the scene of 30th January comes alive. No doubt it’s an eerie feeling to walk across the same path where the most important person for our nation was assassinated.
There is also a multimedia museum which has tried to bring to life the immortal legend. The museum showcases instruments that play the dhwanis Gandhiji used to enjoy. It also tries to preach his teachings and 11 rules that he followed through an innovative and interactive session. The ‘Smriti’ also holds pottery and weaving classes and promotes the active use of khadi, as Gandhiji did. It has shops where khadi garments are sold and also has a souvenir shop.
A word of caution. Do not expect much when making a visit to the ‘Smriti’. There is no parking space available and you need to find a place to park your vehicle in one of the side lanes. Moreover, there is nothing fancy in the museum. The multimedia tools are primitive and the escorts are often uninterested.
But, the place is surely a must visit for it gives you a real experience of being in the very place where his last words were spoken- ‘Hey Ram’.


Place: Gandhi Smriti
5, Tees January Marg
Time: 10am to 5pm
Tuesday to Sunday, Monday Closed

to find fun

My last 2 days were very exciting. I say exciting not from my perspective, but from the perspective of all those who read my blogs in the hope of finding something to laugh on. Monday was about rains, traffic jam, broken umbrella, flooded lanes, stranded mamaji, and fighting friend. Yesterday, Tuesday was about 8 CCD outlets, traffic jam, cribbing cab driver, accident, 3 hours at the airport, silent cousin, unfinished office work and a sleepless night!

On Monday as I started back for home, it poured. It really did. And it was unforeseen. And as I changed buses, I tried my best to save myself from getting wet but obviously got wet. And when I got of my bus I thought, well am wet. I cant help it. Ill have to walk back. Cant help it. Am not stuck in the bus alone. So its not that am the only unlucky person here. I knew I had no choice but to walk back through the flooded lanes. That I had no choice but to manage with that almost broken umbrella. So I decided I am going to enjoy the rain. Its been ages I got wet! And you wont believe how much I enjoyed! While every one ran for shelter, I walked in the rain..peacefully. celebrating the rains, the wind, the cool breeze! It was so so so good. As the rain fell, and the breeze hit me I shivered and smiled.
At the airport also, when the flight got delayed by 3 hours and we weren’t informed because of the stupid Indian working ways, I decided its time ill enjoy! I treated dad with snacks, akku with truffle and myself with food too! It was heaven to be the financer treating my dad 

Today as I work late in office, I see no point in being upset. I am not alone, and people are enjoying their stay backs while sipping coffee. So that’s what am doing. Ive put my earphones, my coffee is ready, blog almost completed and now I am going to enjoy my work.

Signing off :)

makes me wonder

Hey

Ya my DTC oriented blogs are back. I chose not to discuss the agony I went through on Wednesday when I got stuck in the jam because of the rains, and got stuck for more than 4.5 hours. So basically readers who were expecting to get a chance to derive sadist pleasure- sorry!

What I am going to write about today is, about the school children I see every morning getting onto and off a DTC bus. They are typically govt school children, and for obvious reasons. They are students of all age groups—3rd std-12th std.

The 4rd std students are well dresses, their hair neatly tied up, and uniform smartly tucked in. it cannot be ignored that there uniforms have lost their sheen, and brightness. Their shoes are unkempt and their bags torn. Often their books are visible through the torn bags and one can see torn corners if the eyes are strained. The 12th std guys are more of the peculiar kinds. Their hair is unkempt, their uniforms worn shabbily. The white uniforms are on their way to turning into black and the area around the pockets is covered with a layer of black stains. The shoes are layered with dust and the bags are hung around the shoulders casually. They are often abusing and calling each other names. They would run behind the bus and hang from its doors even if theres enough space inside. They move around in bunches, often shouting with earphones hanging from their ears.

The purpose of study seems to be far from the plan, and the agenda seems to comprise only of bunking and not studying.

This makes me wonder..what has led to such an attitude? Even we were in school once upon a time, and though even our agenda often comprised of not studying, we were never as shabby as they are.

Is It because of the family background? Well, it might be an important reason but it can’t be the only reason. If parents are negligent about how their child is going to the school, it’s very obvious. My father never allowed dirty shoes to office. My mom never tolerated loosely tied hair. Amongst these kids that I observe during the morning hours, I do find kids who are well dressed despite similar constraints. So attitude of the parents does seem to be quite important!

Also, the teachers’ reaction would count into it. My teachers at school never showed patience towards eyes full of kajal. 2 pairs of earrings were often the reason of confiscation by the cabinet, and untidy uniforms took us directly to the Prinicipal! Such was the strictness at my school, which is purely lacking in the Govt Schools. Teachers are often perceived to be seen as indifferent people, who don’t really bother about attendance, performance or cleanliness.

In my view the causes and the results are interrelated, and it becomes difficult to establish one way route between cause and effect. But it just makes me wonder..

slow fashion

Years back shopping meant a visit to the market to purchase a few clothes that served the purpose for a whole year. As times changed, even the meaning of shopping did. From what was restricted to a couple of clothes for a whole year, shopping now means a fortnightly affair. Now we need to shop again and again for different occasions-for parties, college, office, get togethers, marriage etc. Different clothes serve different purpose. We need a variety in casuals, semi formals, formals, Indian wear, western wear and even sports wear.
The priority is to look stylish, gorgeous, handsome, classy and trendy. In college, girls want to flaunt jeans, skirts, dresses and shorts paired with a variety of tee shirts and accessories. In office, men want to wear nothing less than Koutons, as ladies show off Sabhyata and Westside. More so, as the season of weddings arrives, there is a rush to the magnificent stores where one can indulge in gorgeous sarees and lehengas. Today, fashion is not just for the grown ups but also for new borns. Mothers want their newly borns to be dressed in Liliput or UCB. Fashion has evolved itself for everyone and for every occasion. It is no longer restricted by age or gender.

Fashion has had such a deep impact on people today, that often the topic of discussion between ladies is what to wear and where to buy. Gone are the days when one suit served the purpose of attending office and a party. Today office means sophisticated suits and parties mean exotic clothes. If someone does end up repeating her clothes at any occasion, then only God save her from being the topic of discussion.

So we indulge in shop holism as the importance of brands increase and end up shopping frequently. We are easily swayed by latest designs and recent collections, and lured by the tag of being a stylish person.

But do we understand the carbon footprint of such an attitude? Do we understand the deep dark side of this habit of indulging in shopping? Even if we do, do we do anything to change it? The answer to perhaps all questions is a NO. At a time when environment has become the centre of all discussions- from industrial activity to commonwealth games, we need to realize that it is also at the nucleus of fashion.
The irony is that while on one hand we buy hoards of clothes every year, there is a large proportion of the world population which does not even have clothes to cover their body! According to World Bank census, around 1.4 billion people worldwide do with only a pair or two of clothes in a year.

With the growing concern of environmental damage and emphasis on carbon footprints we need to analyze if we are doing our bit to save the environment. The answer to this comes in the form of a movement of ‘Slow fashion’. Why do we need to buy different clothes for different occasions? Why do we judge a person only by the variety of clothes he wears? Why do we get lured so easily by the recent collections and changing trends? Why can’t we keep the big picture in mind and understand the impact of such an attitude?

Let’s become smart shoppers and understand that the clothes should be used to their full capacity. Let us join the new wave of ‘slow fashion’. Slow fashion, as the name suggests, is a concept which focuses on more optimal use of clothes. It promotes less frequent shopping. It is a revolution of ideas and habits which encourage a shift from indulging in shopping to restricting the purchase of clothes. In fact slow fashion is also endorsed by some of the leading brands. Levi Strauss & Co. and Forum for the Future have collaborated to form the Fashion Futures which calls for support of the industry to keep climate changes in mind and coming up with more sustainable forms of fashion. Levis hence takes pride in the fact that they believe in making all their garments environmentally stable.

Let us also take pride in the fact that we don’t indulge in fashion just for the sake of it and purchase clothes when in dire need of it. Slow fashion might not be the complete answer to the problem, but it is definitely a beginning. If we do shop less frequently, the consumption of energy for this purpose would also reduce. This energy can then be diverted to more purposeful use like production of food. We need to understand that we are consuming more than the need all in the name of fashion!

As humans we have justification for everything we do, but its time to take a decision now. Just remember keeping environment in mind never goes out of style.

Judge not

not my original. but worth a post!

Judge Not


I was shocked, confused, bewildered
As I entered Heaven's door,
Not by the beauty of it all,
Nor the lights or its decor.
But it was the folks in Heaven
Who made me sputter and gasp--
The thieves, the liars, the sinners,
The alcoholics and the trash.
There stood the kid from seventh grade
Who swiped my lunch money twice.
Next to him was my old neighbor
Who never said anything nice.
Herb, who I always thought
Was rotting away in hell,
Was sitting pretty on cloud nine,
Looking incredibly well.
I nudged God, 'What's the deal?
I would love to hear Your take.
How'd all these sinners get up here?
God must've made a mistake.
'And why is everyone so quiet,
So somber - give me a clue.'
'Hush, child,' He said, 'they're all in shock.
No one thought they'd be seeing you.'

Return to Innocence

When I was a kid my father decided my menu. Today I decide his. When I was young my granny stitched my clothes. Today it’s the posh boutique. As a kid, I would cry when my mother took me to the beautician to get me a hair cut. Today I fight with her to allow me to get one done.
What am I trying to do here by talking to you about these changes? I am trying to tell you that there was a time when getting hurt meant just a bruise on the knee, the only things broken were the toys. Today the meanings have changed, our definitions have changed, life has changed.
Have you ever taken out an hour and gone for a walk in the park full of young kids -playing. I do that every evening. (or at least did until I also got caught in the race to excel in the corporate world)
So the best part about that one hour of walking was that I got to listen and indulge in one hour of music, without any guilt of not studying or not helping my mother with the house-work. I used to wait for the clock to strike 6 every evening and then I would rush to the park. With earphones on, my playlist including everything from Linking Park to A R Rahman and I would relish that one hour.
As I used to walk, I would observe the little kids who were accompanied to the park either by their aayahs or grandparents. It was quite interesting to observe the little, young boys and girls play around, running after each other, laughing, crying, shouting, clapping all at the same time! As I did so day after day, little did I know that they would teach me so much and give me the most important learning of my life. The learning to return to innocence.
I used to watch them playing a variety of games from catch and catch to hide and seek, I would see them as they would run towards the swings, wave at their grandpa from there and the very next moment come back running. Boys would end up hitting each other, but the angst lasted for no more than 5 mins.
Don’t all of you remember your childhood days? How you took pride in showing your mother a 10/10 in maths test? Or an A in the drawing test? How Barbie dolls were your trophies and winning the cricket match the end of this world? Hasn’t it been ages you picked up a bat and hit a sixer? Haven’t it been ages when you dressed a doll with your own designed frocks? Half of you might even be thinking that ive gone mad asking you such silly questions.
But have you ever thought how today the pride is personified not by a 10/10 but by a cheque? How trophies have changed to commendations by our boss and getting into IIM is the end of the world.
Friends observe the eyes of a young child. it reflects purity, and innocence. Their gestures reflect spontaneity and genuity. Their smile radiates warmth and happiness. It’s a pleasure to watch them enjoy, and enjoy with no worries of future, no worries of being observed and no worries of trying to impress. dear friends, kids try to express and not impress.
This makes me wonder, where does the innocence go once we grow up? Why don’t we still wave at our grandpa when we leave for work? why is it all about working and impressing our boss? Why is it no more about genuity? why are we reminded of our friends only when we have some work from them? why do our eyes reflect only ambition? WHY???
Take a moment before you say –oh cmon akshita nothing like that, and think…we have justifications for everything—we work not for ourselves but for our family, we are ambitious so that we are able to make our parents dream come true, I hurt him because he hurt me..and so on and on and on.
But are we as innocent as we were when we were kids? Do our gestures suggest philanthropy? Do we still hope our contemporaries do better than us? Don’t we put money way before our health? Doesn’t enjoyment mean indulging in drinks rather than spending time with our kids? Isn’t our attendance at the office meetings more than at the kid’s stage performance?
Don’t answer me. Don’t answer anyone. Just make a decision. a decision to return to innocence.
Innocence that would act as a magnet force and attract positive people, innocence that would make people fall in love with you. innocence will make you happy, innocence will make you hardworking, innocence will make you sincere, innocence will make you simple. Innocence will make you look for happiness in the right things, innocence will make you give happiness to others.
All you have to do is to think life is beautiful. To keep hope alive. To find your friend in faith, to still find joy when theres no light, to thankgod, if you are struck in the traffic jam, to pick up your cricket bat every weekend, to dress up your daughter’s Barbie doll, to smile, to say I love you, to enjoy the first rain.
Let innocence be reflected in the way you talk, in the way you work. Give it a chance. When you will, you will see how people adore you and respect you. Be innocent, down to earth and simple. Let people judge you by attributes, and not appearance.
Why do we admire gandhiji? The answer to this itself justifies my plea here.today’s world will not change. It will still be a cat and mouse race in the corporate world, success will still be judged by money, but what will change is the fact that you ll be more happy, yur kids will be happier, your family will be happy!

A good or a bad day?

Ill let you decide whether I had a good or a bad day..just read and decide!

a)I celebrated my father’s long awaited 50th bday yesterday night. We reached back home at 2, and had to wake up at 5:30 am (it was a fight to wake up!)

b)Finally I did. Then I fought my way to the washroom, and got dressed for office. The clothes I had decided turned out to be super inappropriate for this weather, so I wasted another ten mins for the ‘appropriate’ ones.

c)I settled for a suit..so the fight came to my chappals again. Keeping in mind the weather and the bad track record of my chappals, I had to wear my floaters. And since floaters look awful with suit, and highly informal, I had to pack my chappals and keep them in my bag (which I hate!)

d)When I went downstairs (we live in a duplex btw. My mom dad on 1st floor, my sis and I on second) my mother had prepared my tiffin () but no breakfast. Had to do with medicine and coffee.

e)I forgot to do my pooja in hurry!

f)When I left I realized I forgot my better half at home..my specs! I went back but couldn’t find them on mom’s floor. Then I went to my floor, and still couldn’t find them. Finally I found them at their place only (in the cover and on my study table)

g)I reached the bus stop but the bus dint come (I jumped to the conclusion that it was because of the bandh). Then I decided to walk down keeping in mind the weather. Oo. Bad idea. It was humid, and the way never seemed to end! I kept walking and walking, and sweating and sweating. But the music was good! :

h)I reached the next bus stop and waited for the bus. I decided to take another bus rather than my regular bus, and as soon as I got onto the bus it started pouring! Suddenly!

i)I asked a guy to get up from the ladies seat. I generally don’t do that, but I know this bus gets hell full and anyways some lady would have asked him to get up. So I did. And he got up grumbling.

j)At dhaula kuan, I sat for almost half an hour before the next bus came. All this while I had no choice but to wait in humidity (the rain stopped just before my stop!)

k)In the next bus also I asked a guy to get up (:p)from the seat for the same reason!

l)I reached office after an uneventful ride.

m)Except, that while I was getting off this stupid lady got hold of my kurta (god knows why!) and it tore

n)I reached office, and rushed to the washroom (to change my funny floaters) and thankfully found no one in the washroom (anjali walked in..but later)

o)Once at my seat, I got to know my boss might not be coming today.

p)i met pushkar and nakul today and had a blast. we couldnt decide where to eat, which mall to go, whom to drop first etc etc.

q) as soon as nakul dropped me, my chappal, yes the famous famous chappal, my favourite favourite chappal broke! hmph. all men standing had a good laugh ok! and my pedicure...umm..lets not talk about it!

r) i couldnt find the cobbler who sits near my office only otherwise. turned out he dint come today

s) i called nakul, who was half way home BUT was sweet enough to come back just to help me! aww

see, I don’t know if it was bad or good (that you please suggest) but it was an interesting day and issi bahaane I got something to write on!

way back home!

For those who take sadist pleasure in my discomfort I bring to you another blog post of the same day (1st July 2010) on my way back.

No doubt I had an ‘interesting’ trip to office according to people who read my blog and found time to send a quick sms to me.. (by the way thanks!), but what also came true is the fact that I had a very ‘interesting’ trip home too!

I left office around 5:30 pm. As I stepped out, woah! It was pouring! And it was so damn windy! I looked at the sky, then the people, then myself and finally my chappals! Yea chappals because these chappals have a track record of not surviving water, and giving away right when am in trouble! But yea am an idiot and I still get them repaired and wear them for I love these chappals!

So I had no choice but to pray I make it home with these chappals..and I did..
I made my way through the traffic, with wind blowing at its fastest speed..my umbrella often pulled me back as I tried to make my way through. (ps had a real tough time!) I reached the main road and woah it was jammed…and the mud that is kept outside our office had taken its worst shape! My chappal often got stuck in the wet mud and gave me a real hard time.

BUS 1:
When I reached the bus stop, I hopped in the very first bus for two reasons A) it was not full B) it was pouring and I was wet! It turned out that all the seats were super wet except for one seat—guess which one? (hehee) next to the conductor ;) so I sat next to the conductor again, and this conductor was super talkative!
He commented on my sms speed, my bad luck of not being in a company that gives cab service, his bad luck of being conductor in a Non AC bus, our bad luck of living in the city with no rainfall (guess he referred to Delhi because it was pouring in gurgaon!) and the havoc that comes with the rains!
In all this conversation, I dint get to know when Dhaula Kuan came, and it was not at all raining there. The clouds had covered the sun, there were signs of drizzles, but no rain. I then waited for my next bus.

BUS 2:
Am happy to report there was no happening incidence during my 2nd bus ride.

BUS 3:
I got on to a different bus route. The conductor told me the bus took the usual route only but had just changed its number for it was extended after Lajpat. I hopped on to the bus, very happy that I got a seat (next to the window and the weather was awesome!) when I opened my wallet to purchase the ticked (o fish!) I dint have change. Had only a 500 Rs note..  I knew the conductor would sulk, and crib and not even have the change! This wasn’t going to work this way..so I searched for change in my bag.

Now for those who don’t know, I have a huge red bag, which has no pockets inside. So all my stuff is kept inside loose and I have this bad habit of throwing my change in rather than keeping it in the wallet. So I started searching in my bag, but the contents were quite irritating. So I started keeping my stuff on the seat. First my notebook, then shades, then scraf, then tiffin, then water bottle, then medicines, then comb (:p) so on and on. My ticket costs 10 bucks and I got 8 bucks change :( so I had no choice but to ask the conductor..8re ya 500? He cribbed and got irritated but took the 500 to give me 490 back!

When I got off at Lajpat, the weather was amazing, I was already late to meet the photographer who was to cover my dad’s surprise party, parivardhan and I had had a fight (after ages :p) and I had my earphones. So for the next 2 kms I decided walk..and I did.

Lisning to music, enjoying the cool breeze, smiling ll the way, even humming a bit, I finally reached home-half drenched and half dry.

That was my ‘pehli tareek’

I make it to office!--1st July 2010

How happy I am to be able to write again! Nothing can describe it. Still ill make an attempt. For the past month work kept me busy. Writing on the blog took a backseat, as only emails were to be written now. Its quite cool here (in literal sense of course) and often I see quivering hands. But this entry is not about my office, It’s about my trip(s) to the office!
(since I want some sympathy) let me start with the fact that it takes me 2.5 hours every day each side, and after spending all this while doing nothing and changing three buses I reach my office on the 4th floor. Coming to the details, my bus journeys are obviously very tiring and exhausting! I never get a seat but I manage to grab a standing place near the window.
Every day while people might think am doing nothing in the bus, I often spend time indulging in music, and observing people. I see people sulking because of the heat, I see kids enjoying the breeze, I see the driver keeping note of the traffic, and I especially notice bus drivers competing with each other and strategically planning their way on the route.
So everyday I had the same (or may be not) experience. But today was little different. And so here goes the story

BUS 1:
my first bus journey approximates to about 15 mins-from my home to the main bus stop. Today I took a private bus (not DTC) and as soon as I paid for my ticket I noticed a DTC bus of the same route zooming by. I realized I wasn’t the only one, and even the conductor and bus driver had noticed their competitor. What followed was quite expected…the private bus driver seemed to forget his lazy way of driving and kicked the gear, the conductor of private bus shouted the route at the top of his voice trying his best to motivate the people at the stop to jump into the bus!
The two buses tried to overtake each other at every opportunity- red light, turns, bus stops and otherwise. And this had only one benefit-and the benefit was entirely to the passengers, for this trip was cut short to merely 7 mins..

BUS 2:
my next bus journey takes 45 mins..from lajpat nagar to Dhaula Kuan, and that is the time I listen to proper music, and try to catch a sleep. I love to read, but cant in moving buses, I feel dizzy, blame my nervous system. Today unfortunately I again got a full bus, but I know how to get work done. ;)
I stood next to the conductor seat, and noticing a ‘helpless, tired, exhaustive’ looking girl (that’s me) a ‘nice, decent guy’ (don’t know who) offered his seat next to the conductor. The bus literally emptied at South Ex but I dint care to really change my seat. So I sat next to the conductor and gained a first hand experience of sitting next to the conductor. Did I mention this one was a DTC bus today. And for those who aren’t aware, DTC buses have this system of making a mark on the ticket noting where the holder got on to the bus and where he plans to get off. Now this is really important because if the ticket checkers get on to the bus, and you are caught with a wrong ticket, well be ready to shelve away 200 bucks!
So for the next 45 mins I observed people getting on to the bus, getting their tickets, collecting the change and searching for a seat. The conductor would often crib when the passengers dint give change, but the passengers were often helpless in this case.
So after 45 mins of repeated action, Dhaula kuan came.

BUS 3:
my next bus ride is pathetic! Duration is more than 1 hour 15 mins, at the 1st bus stop itself the bus gets full, mine is the 5th bus stop so you can imagine, its full of men..stinking! and the bus has to get stuck in jam and atleast 4 main spots! Am talking about Dhaula Kuan to Gurgaon.
Today also when I saw the bus, it gave me an adrenaline rush, not because I was excited but because there was no spare seat in the bus, and so I had to make sure I make my way from back to front and get the place to stand near the window, where there is minimum contact with the sweaty men :p and I managed to get the place. The next one and half hour was unexpectedly super exciting today.

Incident 1: We had DTC ticket checkers getting onto the bus. They checked everyone’s ticket and found a guy who did not have a ticket. What followed were a series of explanations that were by the way so lame that it was obvious that the guy was lying. So he cried, pleaded, and even tried to jump out of the moving bus, but when the ticket-checkers are in the bus, absolutely nothing works! And the guy ended up being bet, paid a fine of 200 bucks and we ended up being late! (hmph)

Incident 2: Not every lady gets a seat, obviously! Not every man gets a seat (Even more obvious). So, it so happened that there was a lady standing next to a seat and a guy was trying to make his way from front to the back side of the bus because he needed to buy his ticket and no one was really ready to do it for him. So he made his way and his bad luck- he touched the lady standing there. Oh! That created one hell of a scene. Turned out that lady was a lady in terms of miss-touch-me-not but not a lady in terms of sophistication. She abused him like a guy, and cribbed like a woman. She shouted like a man, she wailed like a woman. She fought like a man and taunted like a woman. She threatened to call the police, argued, fought, called him names, and threatened him with all force. That carried on for another twenty mins as we crossed mahipalpur. That lady.. I can never forget!

Incident 3: As we reached the last bus stop before the toll, there was a rush of passengers into the bus. Suddenly it actually felt sophisticated inside. Then I heard a woman fighting with someone. I thought it was the incident 2 lady again. But I turned out to be wrong. Then it turned out that this girl (not a lady) had been standing in the front and passed money to another guy standing and asked him to pass it to the conductor. That guy passed it to someone else, and that someone else to someone else. Though the money was expected to reach the conductor it ultimately didnt! And someone in that chain had gotten off with the money at the bus stop (LOL). The girl ended up fighting with the conductor which I still fail to understand why!

Incident 4: yea this is the final one. There is a very fine saying—every dog has his day. After seeing so many stupid people, who would just fight/shout/and look idiots, now came my turn. As we crossed toll, and saw the jam in front of Ambience mall, I heard someone yelling at the driver asking him to take the bus from above the flyover rather than under. Now my office is under the flyover and I ended up in panic mode. A) I don’t know the ways around Gurgaon B) I was getting super late C) I felt unwell D) it was hot! E) the flyover ends way after my office.
So while that guy yelled asking the driver to take it from above, I decided to pioneer the fight of taking it under the flyover. As he shouted, so did I. a point came when we both were shouting. (:P) finally the driver took it from under the flyover and I was glad-turned out he dint do it for me, but because that’s the general route and he doesn’t have the authority to change routes. But I was glad atleast I did my bit for red alert ;)

And with that I reached office, and hopefully ill have a peaceful way back. By the way, I was so observant today because my office mate Anjali had my earphones!

real incident

It was a peaceful and hot evening. Residents of east of kailash B block had just finished their dinner. They aren’t oblivious to the fact that delh is a crime place, but that a theft could happen in their neighbourhood seemed like a very unlikely fact, but it did. On the eve of 3rd may 2010, one of the houses were broken into by 2 men at around 10pm. Their motive was to steal and they entered the house from the back door. However, what they dint think was that they’ll be caught. One of them managed to run away with the meter but the 2nd one was caught.

He was caught, and beaten. Beaten till he begged for mercy, but with no mercy. This happened to be the scene at the house next to my door. I observed from my balcony, clicking and capturing the emotions everyone present at the scene exhibited. The convict maintained that he was not there with the motive of stealing and just happened to be present when the guy who came to break in ran away. He reiterated that he was merely in the shadows as he indulged in drinks. The residents maintained that no alcohol was found and infact the convict was caught inside the house and not outside.

Nevertheless, the way it went ahead was very expected. The neighbours gathered in swarms, and whoever came asked for the story again and again. Ladies were out in nighties draped with a dupatta, kids were out in shorts, boys with cellphone, I with camera. The ladies discussed, while kids seemed quite excited. The men were more serious and as an when they came they beat the convict atleast once.
The colony’s guards were also present but nothing concrete came of the convict even after being bet up like a dog.

Finally, he was handed over to the police, and the meter hasn’t been recovered, neither is there any information about the 1st guy. But it was definitely a night of action!

my fav folktale as a child

Folktales have always been enjoyed by everyone- children, parents, adults, everyone! Folktales have been an easy way to impart values or lessons to the younger generations. And one such folktale that I’ve always enjoyed as a child is that of 5 Brothers. According to this Chinese Folktale, there once lived, five Chinese brothers, all identical twins but having super natural powers different from each brother. One of them could gulp the whole ocean into his mouth; the other had an iron neck. The third could hold his breath for very long and the fourth could extend his legs to any length he desired. The last one could not be burnt.
Once, a small boy forced the eldest brother, who could gulp the whole ocean to take him to the ocean and help him collect rare shells. The eldest brother was adamant to not agree but the small boy managed to persuade him somehow. The brother agreed putting forth one condition. He directed the boy to keep a watch for his actions and do what is expected of him. The boy agreed and they set out towards the ocean. In one gulp, the brother devoured the whole ocean, leaving the ocean bed uncovered and his cheeks swollen. The boy ran towards it excitedly and started to collect the rarest of shells. After some time when the brother started feeling the pain in his cheeks, he frantically gave signals to the boy to come back so he could let the ocean out. But the boy was so fascinated by the site that lay infront of him that ignored those signals and continued to collect the shells. The brother continued to give signals, bearing the pain as long as he could. Finally when he could bare no longer, he let out the ocean, and the boy was gone.
When he returned to the village alone, he was accused of killing the boy. He was tried, and convicted and was given the capital punishment to be beheaded. The brother asked the judge to grant him permission to go and meet his mother once. The judge agreed and when the brother went back home, he swapped places with his second brother who had an iron neck. On the day of execution, the whole village gathered to witness the ceremony. When the executioner, tried to strike off the neck, the sword merely bounced back, doing no harm to the brother! The executioner tried it again, and again for the third time, as the villagers marveled at the sight. In vain, the executioner gave up. When this punishment could not kill the brother, the judge ordered to put the brother into a smokehouse. Once again, the brother requested the judge to allow him to meet his mother for her final blessings, and having the judge agreed went and swapped position for his third brother, who could hold his breath forever.
When the brother was put inside the smoke house, the villagers gathered around once again, convinced to see no miracle this time. But after almost 3hours when the chamber was opened in order to retrieve the offender’s body, the brother merely stepped out, stretching and yawning!! The villagers were shocked once again to see that the brother had survived this punishment as well. The judge, was furious and ordered to throw the brother in the middle of the ocean so that he would drown. But the brother pleaded to meet his mother once again, and was granted permission. (As expected), he went and swapped himself with the fourth brother who would extend his legs to any length he wanted. Then the brother was taken to the middle of the ocean in a boat and was thrown over board. For the first few minutes no one could see his face, and were satisfied that the brother was killed, but after about five minutes, his face reappeared! The brother had extended his legs and was standing easily on the ocean head making his head visible to the on lookers (though everyone thought he was still swimming). With the miracle for the third time now, most of the villagers were now convinced that the brother was not a criminal and it was god who was saving him.
So the judge, declared to try a last punishment and if the brother managed to survive this one as well, he shall be granted pardon. It was decided that the brother would be put on fire alive. The brother again pleaded for permission to meet his mother, and swapped places with his last brother who survived the fire as he couldn’t be burnt.
The judge finally granted him pardon, for he couldn’t be executed and declared that he was innocent.
It’s a simple tale, and definitely an enjoyable one. The story gives a simple value that all of us are different and unique in our own way. And that we can use our abilities to help not only ourselves but also people around us.

must for dilli people

FOR FOOD FREAKS

Finger licking good might be the tagline for KFC, but it also suits well the yummy food one gets at a food joint in New friends colony (NFC) market, Concept. Often misunderstood as Al Beic, Concept is actually a food joint right next to Al Beic. Am a ‘Concept’ loyal and I feel its high time Concept got its true recognition.

Present at the NFC market, Concept is a small eating joint which can seat about 30-40 people. The market is situated near Escorts Hospital, on the Ashram Road, well accessible by cars or buses. This eating joint offers variety of dishes including snacks and heavy food. One can find the delicious Mughlai cuisine and the addicting Chinese cuisine here. The specialty of this place is in its ‘Shawarmas’ which are originally a delicacy from Hyderabad. Shawarmas defined simply are chicken rolls, ie chicken stuffing in a ‘maida’ roti, but paired with cheese instead of the regular chatnis.

This eating joint can be characterized by efficiency and hygiene. The food here is hygienic, and though the eating joint is more like a ‘dhaba’, care is defiantly taken towards maintaining the hygiene. Also the servers here are very efficient and one can be assured of quick service. Concept is affordable with not very high prices, and the place is quite packed on evenings, as families visit the place for a smacking dinner. During the days, the joint is occupied by students or people who have their offices in the nearby complex.

For the veges, there is the Mughlai delicacies of Dal makhni, shahee Paneer, and many more including rice and rotis. In Chinese the menu includes Manchurian, Sweet and Sour Paneer along with soups. For the Non Veges, Shawarmas are a must try!! Beverages, soups can also be ordered to go with the food. The set up here is very informal, and the joint is always a very happening and busy place. If one is looking for the sophisticated, calm and quiet treatment this place is not for you, but if one wants yummy food without much emphasis on the exotic nature, this place is a must try!

Visit with your friends or family, in day or evening, Concept is a safe eating joint and the crowd here is very much decent. The food here can be rated 4.5/5, and the cleanliness and hygiene can be rated 4/5. Concept remains as one of the few eating joints which provide value for money, providing yummy food in good quantity at affordable prices!

food freaks!!!

Finger licking good might be the tagline for KFC, but it also suits well the yummy food one gets at a food joint in New friends colony (NFC) market, Concept. Often misunderstood as Al Beic, Concept is actually a food joint right next to Al Beic. Am a ‘Concept’ loyal and I feel its high time Concept got its true recognition.

Present at the NFC market, Concept is a small eating joint which can seat about 30-40 people. The market is situated near Escorts Hospital, on the Ashram Road, well accessible by cars or buses. This eating joint offers variety of dishes including snacks and heavy food. One can find the delicious Mughlai cuisine and the addicting Chinese cuisine here. The specialty of this place is in its ‘Shawarmas’ which are originally a delicacy from Hyderabad. Shawarmas defined simply are chicken rolls, ie chicken stuffing in a ‘maida’ roti, but paired with cheese instead of the regular chatnis.

This eating joint can be characterized by efficiency and hygiene. The food here is hygienic, and though the eating joint is more like a ‘dhaba’, care is defiantly taken towards maintaining the hygiene. Also the servers here are very efficient and one can be assured of quick service. Concept is affordable with not very high prices, and the place is quite packed on evenings, as families visit the place for a smacking dinner. During the days, the joint is occupied by students or people who have their offices in the nearby complex.

For the veges, there is the Mughlai delicacies of Dal makhni, shahee Paneer, and many more including rice and rotis. In Chinese the menu includes Manchurian, Sweet and Sour Paneer along with soups. For the Non Veges, Shawarmas are a must try!! Beverages, soups can also be ordered to go with the food. The set up here is very informal, and the joint is always a very happening and busy place. If one is looking for the sophisticated, calm and quiet treatment this place is not for you, but if one wants yummy food without much emphasis on the exotic nature, this place is a must try!

Visit with your friends or family, in day or evening, Concept is a safe eating joint and the crowd here is very much decent. The food here can be rated 4.5/5, and the cleanliness and hygiene can be rated 4/5. Concept remains as one of the few eating joints which provide value for money, providing yummy food in good quantity at affordable prices!

land of llama

Leh: the Land of Llama
Located at an altitude of 3500m, Leh, capital of Ladak district of Jammu and Kashmir state, India, is a small town located in the Indus river valley at a crossroads of the old trading routes from Kashgar, Tibet, and Kashmir. The small town is compact in its settlement, with traditional mud houses and narrow lanes.
Since Leh is situated at such a high altitude, visitors do face the problem of acclimatization during the first few days. But the unique experience provided by Leh, should be a motivation enough for the travel freaks to make a visit to this place. Jammu And Kashmir is referred to as a paradise on earth, because ever y city of this state does justice to this appreciation, and Leh is no less. The city offers recreational activities, learning opportunities and delightful experiences.
Leh is well connected by roads from Manali (HP) and Kashmir. These roads start from lower altitude and gradually gain height hence helping the tourists get gradually accustomed to the change in altitude. These roads are generally open throughout the year but one recommends the time from June to October. Also, the town is well connected by rail and the nearest station is Udhampur (JnK). Also direct flights connect the town from Delhi. Kingfisher airlines, spice jet and Jet airways have one hour flights between these two cities.
In the city, most places could be visited on foot, but one could always take local taxis. The main attractions of the city include the Palace of the King of Ladakh which is the most noticeable building in Leh. The city is dominated by Buddhist religion and there are a few beautiful Buddhist temples, including Namgyal Tsemo Gompa which is right above the Palace, Soma Gompa and Karma Dupgyud Choeling which is a monastery in the Karma Kagyu tradition. There is also a Shanti Stupa, which was built by a group of Japanese monks.
The main market of Leh, offers a wide variety of local articles to buy from. There are shops famous for jewelry and precious stones, bags, pashmina shawls, and other items which could be gifted. The food joints of the town also serve a wide range of Chinese, and local cuisines, and it could be difficult to find pure vegetarian restaurants. No roaming networks work in this city except for Airtel Postpaid connections.
If one is going to Leh, it is recommended that the tour is planned for about 10 days and includes spots not only in Leh but also around the city. Local taxis need to be taken (private vehicles are not allowed) and Chang La (the third highest motorable pass) and Khardung La (the highest motorable pass) must be visited. These ‘peaks’ are designed well to welcome tourists and a special herb tea which is served here is worth mentioning. Another town is that of Hundur which is a cold desert. Here camel rides for about 20 minutes each are offered and are quite enjoyable. But perhaps the most interesting place that one must visit is the Pengong So, which is a lake shared by India and China. The lake can be visited again by taking a taxi, and the lake offers opportunity for boat rides. The most enjoyable element of all these places is that since the journey requires about 6-7 hours by road, one can stop anytime anywhere, amidst the gardens, between the roads, and marvel at the beauty and architectural sense of God.
All of the above mentioned spots have decent and budgeted housing accommodations, but one does need to plan it before hand. The town offers a beautiful getaway especially for those who enjoy scenic beauty, photography, trekking and travelling.
So just pack your back, travel light, and a camera is a must. Book your tickets and go enjoy the spectacular view of the town.

keep thinkin

RELIGION IS THE OPIUM OF MASSES- KARL MARX
The well-worn and well known cliché goes- religion is the opium of the masses. And how true it is!! Majority of the billions of inhabitants on this planet get their ultimate high from religion. They chant and pray, pray and chant. But I wonder for what? The ultimate goal lies in the fact that they want God to intercede on their behalf and somehow make their sorrows melt away and make their wildest yearnings come true. But despite all the chanting and praying, the sorrows still remain, yearnings still remain unfulfilled. So what do they do then? Of course, they chant some more, pray some more. And so on and so forth. Yet the wild dreams remain just that wild, desires still remain unfulfilled but the chanting and praying goes on and on, till one day they die, devolving the responsibility of appeasing that forgetful supreme authority called God on the next generation. It must be realized that the lynchpin of faith is the concept of miracle, that has been the driving force behind every religion. No religion would not be tempting enough to its practitioners unless it could dangle the carrot of a ‘miracle’ being conjured out of nowhere and improving the circumstance of every devotee.

Opium was an important medicine. It was used as a painkiller, and to cure a variety of ailments including cholera. Seen in this light, religion has been taken as a sedative too. People who have seen difficulties in their life, who have learnt to accept the challenges as a result of their ‘karma’ fall back on their religion, on their religious leaders and on their God for giving them the courage to live easy. I go for a chant session almost every week upon the insistence of my mother. I hear ever leader there, say there regularly revised line to every new devotee who is introduced to this chant. ‘oh is life too difficult for you to live? Just come into the fold of the religious leader, sureender your soul and your mind (and your wallet too because your payment is for the shortcut key) and feel the portals of a soothing new world where miracles are always round the corner. Even if the miracles don’t happen, the hope is always there, lingering in the background, like the soothing miasma of opium smoke.’ The most sordid aspect of this culture of prayers, however is that if miracles are what make a religion attractive, they do so only at the cost of making a scathing or an insulting attack on the very mortality of God. I say this not to discourage people from becoming religious. Religion, God, worship and faith have always been an important part of the Indian lifestyle. Much emphasis has been laid upon this and rightly so. One must not become an atheist. Belief in God is essential but that must not divert anyone from the course of action. It should not be a deterrent towards delivery of what is expected of you. The English proverb ‘God helps those who helps themselves’ fits well here.

God made the universe, And if God made the world he must also have made its laws. Not the laws. Not the laws of politics, but the laws of natural science, which control the physical properties of everything contained in this universe. Now a miracle, would be something against the laws of Natural Science. Men cannot walk on water, but if some sage or seer walks across the water it’s a miracle. If a disease gets cured through medical science it wont be a miracle but if it gets cured by the touch of a so called holy man it world surely be a miracle But if God as made the laws of nature why would he allow them to be broken? How can he let a seer walk on water, a holy man cure diseases by mere touch or by fulfilling dreams and desires of every devotee who chants a hym? The concept of miracles is by itself the worst insult heaped upon God,and this is a crime of which all religions are guilty of.
In another context, Opium was a keyword for widespread social conflict, particularly the Opium Wars. People are obsessive and possessive about their religion. There have been social conflicts where people have ended in the same with just a moment’s conversation. Religion has been a sensitive issue especially in a country like ours. It has been taken in as an important political agenda and vote bank politics. Like I wrote earlier- being religious is not bad, but being so sensitive about it helps no one. Religion was made to unite people, to get them closer to each other. To unite them with God, to help them understand Him better. But today religion makes one man stand against another. Brothers fight not for each other but fight each other.
It has always been emphasized that Indians have lived in peace and harmony, despite the different religions, and so has been the case. But it is undeniable that the potential of rising to conflicts is also immense. Pure incidences of these have been like the case of Babri Masjid, or the Gujarat Riots.

In today’s world, religions race against each other. It has been used to divide not to unite. One must understand the deeper meaning of every religion. It doesn’t matter which religion you pray. Which god u believe in. All religions are one, all God are one. What matters is your inner self. The religions are two. One that teaches love and one that teaches hate. Believe in the first. Be the worshipper of unity, love and understanding.

btw..theres a game called hockey

THERES A GAME CALLED HOCKEY
Teacher: What is the national game of India?
Rohan: Cricket
this is a common mistake made by almost all 3rd standard students who mistake cricket for the national game, as they forget that there is a game called hockey- Hockey is our national game! So who should be blamed for this? The hockey players who failed to gather as much attention or failed to create as much hype as other sportsperson have? Or is it the media who failed to glorify the team and players as much as they glorified others? Or was it the authority and Government, who failed to give them an appropriate platform despite their performance? The responsibility cannot be fixed. Yet the fact remains that Indian hockey team and players have been denied much affection.
The game has brought much glory and respect to India on the map of world sports! This history of Indian hockey goes back to 1885 when the first hockey club came up in Calcutta and soon Bombay and Punjab followed suit. Making its Olympic debut at the 1928 Amsterdam Games, Indian hockey team cruised home to its first Olympic gold, without conceding a single goal. The hallmark of this ruthless domination was the wizardry of Indian hockey legend - Dhyan Chand, who mesmerized the Amsterdam crowd with his dazzling skills. From there on, India won six straight Olympic gold medals while winning 24 consecutive matches between 1924 and 1956, a record likely to stand through the ages. The Indians have won two more gold since then. The team continued to do brilliantly and made India proud every time they got an opportunity. Talking about some of the legendary and outstanding players of Indian hockey, Dhyan Chand, K.D. Singh, Dhanraj Pillay, Balbir Singh and Dilip Tirkey are some names that come to mind instantly. Thanks to their exceptional gaming technique and enduring enthusiasm, the position of India in the field of hockey achieved new heights.
However, it’s unfortunate for Indian hockey, that such legends whom the world revered, had to undergo pathetic treatment from the hockey federation. When the legend of legends Dhyan Chand was ailing in his last days, he was dumped in the general ward, and only after an article by a journalist, he was shifted to a special ward. Hockey has been overshadowed by other popular games who have received more media hype and fan attention.
Dhoni’s haircut, Yuvraj’s affairs, Sehwag’s injury, are to sight a few examples, the hot topics of any discussions. IPL tee shirts, IPL happy hours etc are the most popular advertisement gimmicks most companies indulge in during IPL season. But how many of us honestly know the captain of hockey team? Or how many of us honestly know that there is a premier hockey league as well?!! It’s true that the popularity of a sport depends upon the liking of the public, individual tastes etc. but its also true that if special efforts are made by media and authorities to at least get the game under spotlight and create awareness about it, the game would definitely receive the recognition in our nation that it truly deserves after getting all the glory to the nation!

During the recent times, when Indian sportspersons were swiftly asserting themselves on the global stage, India’s hockey fate was plunging to a chasm. Gradually things took a turn for the worse with the Indian team which was failing to keep pace with vastly improving European rivals. With success being far and few between, hockey was losing out to other popular sports that have brought India international success.
But when things changed, and hockey team emerged again, media was still not enthused to cover them more and bring them back to be the hero in the hearts of the Indian public. Surprisingly even the Government remembers the hockey team only during the time of World Cup, Olympics, and the Asiad.

Most people in India complain and crib about systems that don’t work. But unfortunately, they never make an effort to change it. Hockey, the national sport of India, is also in such a state. Cricket has taken over the position, though unofficially, and cricketers have become the gods of the masses. A loss in cricket is equated to a national loss and a matter of national shame. On the other hand, a win in hockey was treated as if a child had won a match at school.

However fortunately, for the past four years, opinions seem to have changed for the game with the launch of Premier Hockey League. The Premier Hockey League (PHL) is a domestic field hockey tournament conducted by the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) with active support from sports news channel ESPN India. The tournament was initiated to revive interest in the sport, which was losing spectator interest. There were 7teams including Bangalore Hi-Fliers, Chennai Veerans, Hyderabad Sultans, Maratha Warriors, Sher-e-Jalandhar, Chandigarh Dynamos and Orissa Steelers. This effort was appreciated, and hockey was brought back to the main focus. Another attempt was made, in the form of ‘Chak De’, which was much appreciated. The movie tried to go away from the main stream cinema idea of cricket, and tried to show the potential and capacity of the Indian Hockey team.
Many in the Indian hockey circles are delighted to have hockey glamorized with the intention of reviving the flagging sport. Though experts do accuse the Indian Hockey Federation of being too lethargic and bureaucratic in popularizing the sport, the International Hockey Federation is keenly studying the format. We must not forget that hockey is the game the world learnt from us and we are now distancing ourselves from the game. It is high time we give the game and its players credit and fame. We could do our bit by emphasizing on it at school level, or college levels. I do not say that one steals the crown from cricket. It’s not a cricket vs hockey debate. But the issue here is that our game, our national game is loosing its sheen. We must remember that there’s a game called hockey- our national game!

australia- racism..really??

I woke up on a lazy Sunday morning and while I was flipping over the channels I happened to see breaking news over one of the known news channels, which read “Racist Australia”. I just watched on to see if Symonds was in any controversy again, but things proved to be quite different this time. A ghastly image of an Indian amidst medical facilities came up on TV. The reporter went on to say that this Indian was attacked by Australians. The reason was no theft, no rape. But ‘race difference’. The victim was identified to be Sravan Kumar Theerthala, a medical student who was studying in Australia and hailed from Andhra Pradesh. He was stabbed by a screw driver and was in a critical situation, fighting for his life in coma at the Royal Melbourne Hospital. The news went on to flash another similar incidence, fourth of its kind in three weeks, in which another student Baljinder Singh was robbed and stabbed outside a railway station.
I followed the news, as the channels, news papers, discussions were flogged by this issue only. Everyone had a different perception, most of them quite sympathizing with the Indian students, and most of them jumping to conclusions such as Australia not being a safe country anymore and that number of students going to Australia would dip immediately. I listened to all, forming my own views, changing them, arguing with some and agreeing with some. We all know Indian TV media and Indians are quixotic enough to jump to quick conclusions.
But I pretty much do not form rigid opinions about such issues and hence would try and put forth a very diplomatic analysis of this situation.
In Australia, Indian student community includes about 90,000 students. Indians have always preferred Australia as an education destination over UK or USA for various reasons. Australia has a stronger and more stable Government, the teaching environment there has always been appreciated and the tuition fees and cost of living is Australia is cheaper than other countries. One explanation for these attacks could be related to this. In Australia, tuition fees level for domestic student is limited but not for an international student. Universities lose money on every local student they enroll while international student becomes a bonus. Due to large enrollment of foreign students a number of resources are bagged by foreigners which otherwise would be available to local students. High competition to get an entry in good course at prestigious university may be a killing factor evolving among nationals. Further more, With an economic slowdown stretching around the globe, job scenarios are also worsening. Job crunch and insecurity may be another factor too. While Australians are getting fired, foreign students are capping opportunities. These include not just Indian students studying in Australia but also many IITs and IIMs progeny who get placed in Australian companies, so the youth of first world has started feeling insecure. They view it as a seizure of their rightful employment by their Indian counterpart and hence becomes quite intolerable for an Australian national. This insecurity and threat is in a way seeking an outlet and metamorphosing into racist attacks that have been witnessed in the recent times. This is also prevalent amongst students who accept mediocre jobs at restaurants and food joints to support their tuition fees. Something that again gets in insecurity as these are means of earning pocket money for many of the Australian teenagers.
So are these attacks really racist or a conspiracy which isn’t smelled yet? These attacks will lower down the enrollment by foreign students initially by Indian students later on followed by other nationals too. These lowering enrollments will free up resources grabbed by international students easing up competition for the locals. Also if such incidents happens in corporate world too in Australia which is still to be reported, locals will become a choice at the time of hiring thus creating more opportunities for them.
Another point to ponder upon is that with Chinese students in majority why only Indian students are being targeted? It could be because of the increasing influence of Indians around the globe. Recently India has been challenging Australian supremacy in many fields whether it is cricket or nuclear fuel availability model which may trigger a feeling of hatred amongst the common man. May be Chinese students were also victims of such attacks and their voices got suppressed by the louder outcry of Indians. The recent rally by Indian students in Australia to protest against these attacks was hugely joined by other international students, which proved that they were also victims of such incidents and this time they got a platform to raise their voices too.
However, a matter that must be scrutinized more closely is that, why are the Indians only attacked worldwide? These attacks are not particular to Australia and are not happening or the first time. Similar attacks happened in December, 2001. Students have faced racial discrimination in UK, USA etc. so is it really racism that drives this hatred or something else? Many of the reasons I stated above can also be generalized to other countries. Another reason could be that maybe Indians themselves take their manners for granted and do not behave as they are expected to. For eg in Germany if you do not address a person with respect during your conversation, they will simply walk away from you. You cannot call that racism; just that it’s their culture of giving respect and taking it back. Similarly, Indians who are not fluent in use of ‘excuse me’, ‘thankyou’ and ‘sorry’ do not get much appreciation from the Australians. Inappropriate use might be the reason they end up in bad books. And it must be understood that this is not exactly what one can call racism! Care has to be taken to behave like a Roman when you’re in Rome. This is something which we pretty much must learn in our life. Indians continue to interfere in other’s personal works not realizing that though it might be appreciated in their home country, the same is not liked in these countries where much emphasis is laid upon independence.
It must not be forgotten that these condemnable acts do not necessarily reflect the perception of the first world society as a whole. Reason and rationality are slumbering but not non-existent. Every country has its share of cantankerous, fanatic masses. This, however, does not imply that every Australian is against every Indian or vice-versa. However, it cannot be argued that the Australian government needs to try and find out a solution to this problem. Though it has tightened security, and is trying to create awareness among student, much this alone wouldn’t suffice. Such feelings mostly stem from fear and inability to accept a foreigner in one’s own land, but with the world turning into a global village, something must be done to remove this menace from its roots. The Government must link all the incidents together in order to find out the root cause of the problem, whether it’s a conspiracy or mere discrete incidents. Also they should try to find out what is causing these incidents. Is there any outrage growing in local students or the feel of insecurity is causing this? Or is just an after affect of the meltdown that has rendered the native Australians jobless only to find that the suitable jobs have been occupied by Indians?