Sharing Anubhav's (ahem Experience, duh!)

Hola you!

I know some of you must be wondering how my nomination at the top bloggers award by Blogadda fared. While I was touched and excited by all your display of affection and support, “Life…” did not make it to the top 5. No regrets, albeit I can’t deny feeling a little blue.

I mean I started off as a teenager using text language and venting off dreams and emotions on my blogspot page akin a dear diary. The blog (and I) sure have come a long way. Thanks to all your feedback and appreciation. My first victory (which still continues) is when I see my followers list growing and people walking up to me telling me they love what I write; feels absolutely fantastic! A few bloggers and acquaintances were kind and knowledgeable enough to recommend a few changes to my blog and I took it with grace. I also did a lot of research, checked other blogs (to learn what I was doing right or wrong) and amended my blog. Thankfully I had the time then to pursue my passion with fervor. Now, with family and work commitments abounding, I have very little time to write, let alone check other blogs and aim for improvement. Apologies to you, and my hobby, for this miss. Earning bread and butter (and jam and mayo) takes precedence over pastimes, you sure would agree.      

Anyhow, I do plan to continue on my blogging journey and get better, every passing day. Someday, I hope, I stand a chance to win accolades in this area of life too. Thanks to all of you…

Well, having given you that update, let me tell you about something new I experienced at work in the past few days. There is a concept called “Friday Matinee” at Hitachi Consulting (GDC) where we screen a movie for all employees and review it together gleaning lessons. The first such program I attended a last week was highly interesting and enlightening. We watched a 1952 film called ’12 Angry Men’ starring and produced by Henry Fonda (Jane Fonda’s pop). This black and white production lasting an hour and half is a delightful watch, one that I suggest you take the time to check out. There is a Hindi remake as well, but as you all know, the original is always better than the copies or sequels.

The story revolves around 12 jurors who have to unanimously decide whether a young boy accused of killing his father is guilty or not. While 11 of the jury start off with a “guilty” vote, the last one succeeds in pulling all of them over to the other side by using his reason and logic. The unique behaviors of all the men, their stories and transformations are truly marvelous. And the number of lessons to learn, outstanding! It talks about teamwork and courage, confidence and empathy, trust and humility. But shan’t let the cat out of the bag, you must go and watch it yourself. Get some popcorn while you’re at it.

Another experience at work - I tamed the bull, a raging maniac who always communicated rudely. I was a little flustered initially, but I managed to assertively put him in his place. It was a proud achievement, and the outcome is very pleasant (and I hope lasting). Just like the movie above, this goes to show that you need not always bow down to pressure and stress. You need to stand your ground, and clearly let the others know your needs and perspectives.

Hassee to Phassee has released this week, and I have heard pretty decent reviews. Since I am on leave all of next week, I might just catch it in my free time. Also need to catch up on my reading – I have been asked to review “The Hunt for Kohinoor” by Manreet Sodhi Someshwar on request from Westland Books. Not going to spill any beans now, but plenty to say in the 50-odd pages I’ve read so far. You gotta wait for the book review that shall be published here shortly. Professional obligation, you see :-)

The Sale season is on, have you set hands on anything in the million malls yet? I got 2 jeans – they were a steal at 600 each (2 for the price of 1) at Megamart. Go go go!!  

My nephew celebrates his 4^th birthday in Mumbai today so I’m off to wish him and shower him with love. Brother and sis-in-law also complete 8 years of marriage, so it is one huge celebration with the family. We were planning to hit Imagica, what with it being my husband's fake birthday and the Valentine's day worldwide. But the recent accident there (also with some Rathi’s from Kolkata) has made us change our minds. Apparently, the amusement park is still on despite that one ride being stalled. This is India, my dears! Had it been abroad, the victims would have been compensated generously and the entire place would have shut down for repairs and maintenance. India oh India… You have a moronic Rahul Gandhi trying to become who he isn't (missed the catastrophic interview with Arnab "ArGo" Goswami - click here to laugh and.or pull your hair like a madman) and a “stupid” janta who have to immigrate in order to be valued for their work and intelligence (Go Satya Nadella!)   

I always have these arguments on Facebook with people on my friends list about our views on India. They think they need to support everything Indian merely to show their patriotism. I disagree. I am patriotic too, but I am not afraid to acknowledge the errors and shortcomings of the greatest (pseudo) democracy in the world.

And before we start off on that again, adieu!

Cheerio!
Princess

Author Update!

Hello Dear Friends,

 

Trust you are doing well. 

 

For all of you who voted for me and helped me reach the magic number of 100 likes, a BIG THANK YOU and Muuuaaaaahhh!! Let’s see who wins this blogging contest. The Blogadda event is happening on Feb 9 in Courtyard Marriott Mumbai. May or may not go, but surely hope to be called out… Fingers crossed!! (http://win.blogadda.com/view-blogs-voting/personal/Life/)

 

Things are in full swing at work and home. I am a woman at peace. There are regular visits to the parents and in-laws, and the social circle is also well connected. Having completed over 3 months at Hitachi, I have built a strong network and fan following :-) All in all, life’s good. Our new home is shaping up brilliantly, will share pictures soon!! Can't wait to move in, but doesn't seem to be any sooner than March, even April...

 

MTV Roadies is on, thank goodness. My evening life was pretty dull give that both Masterchef Australia and Bigg Boss ended, leaving the 9 pm TV slot lifeless and lonely. Unfortunately, it clashes with Koffee with Karan at 7 pm (Star World). Karan’s behavior and questions remain silly and the same but the guests this time round are witty and spirited. Garners more than a few laughs, for sure. Other than that, it’s Comedy with Kapil, which is getting to be mighty boring and predictable. Even the celebrities and hosts have lost their magic.

 

You must be wondering why I have not written anything about the Republic Day. Didn’t feel like it, did not even wish anyone. In fact, if we are connected on Facebook, you may have read my (controversial) post where I said that there is nothing happy about the Republic Day and I am not proud to be Indian. This was shared in view of the news that has really shaken me in the past few months – rapes, politics, corruption, crime, poverty, invasions, price hike and the list does not end here. Heaps of my contacts ventured opinions about how my post was wrong and I was thankless for everything the country has given me, including freedom of expression.  All of them aimed to change my mind and (maybe) show how patriotic and sincere they were. My thoughts remain unchanged despite my total respect for the army and intelligentsia of India. That the country is my alma mater is true, but I am fulfilling my duties towards my nation and countrymen as well. What we have is hope and what we need are good leaders. Without the two, we are spiraling downward and no amount of ranting is going to change that.  

 

I watched Jai Ho first day last show (just like old times!) and while the film was nothing to rave about, Salman sure has me captivated. What presence! The moment he comes on the screen, you know some hungama is about to happen. The ‘help 3 people’ dialogue made me groan the 100^th time it was uttered on screen, and I wonder if this thought is really going to go viral in this corrupt and selfish world. Anyway, good effort and pretty decent acting. The actress Daisy Shah is a buffalo in disguise, and a dancing one at that. So, since they could not expose her assets too much, they ensured they made her dance every time she was shot. The “Naina” track is catchy and Salman has danced (surprisingly) well in the songs. I loved the chemistry between Tabu and Sallu (siblings) but the kiddo stole the show – what marvelous acting, what pluck, adorable!! Even though the movie hasn’t done the usual 100 crore feat at the box office, that all dud productions are achieving with amazing ease… One time watch for sure.

Been ages since I went clubbing coz hubby despises crowds and does not dance. (He did not even shake a leg on our wedding day, so I assure you he won’t move that booty no matter how much you request or command!) I have not been to Kue Bar (Westin) or the Penthouze, and it kills me :-( The disco star of yesteryear, my funky college time masti is long gone. How I wish I could go partying…

 

But well, does not mean I am not having fun. Shopping at Phoenix (so many sales!) and regular hoteling is full on (Chang in Viman Nagar is our new Chinese hangout – yummy food and great quantity). My husband also took me to the Japanese garden (better known as Pu La Garden) to show me some colourful fountains that multiple people had been praising no end. Adlabs Imagica is also on the cards, what with my nephew and hubby’s birthday round the corner as well as bro-sis in law’s anniversary. Too much kharcha, I tell you! All the tax saving efforts paying off – hope you have declared your proofs at work!  

 

And on that note, asta la vista fellas!

Cheerio!

Princess

Super Saturday!

“Weekend”

That single word contains all the bliss and excitement present in the universe.

Of course, it’s not everyone’s destiny to enjoy 2 days off a week: I know of quite a few people who work 5.5 or 6 days per week – I was one of them until last year when I joined IBM.

So, it’s all the more reason to get excited and start planning what to do and how to go about it.

Well, this weekend, for a change, I had no plans. Rather, I had a plan that finally did not happen, so I went with the flow and lived a divine and delightful day today – as the title gives away, it was a Super Saturday!

To begin with, the weather was abso-fu*kin-lutely brilliant! It’s been drizzling and pouring the last few days – the monsoon has finally arrived in Pune.

Here are my initial thoughts when I woke up: It’s perfect to go out for a drive. (Though petrol prices have skyrocketed.) It’s perfect to write a nice, emotional blog. (Which I do irrespective of the climate conditions.) It’s perfect to go gallivanting out in the rain and shop or eat or hang out. (As if we need a reason to do that!)

So, basically, it’s a perfect day for anything and everything :-) Time to move on with the day!

Well begun is half done – I woke up late (as usual) and lazed around online and at home. I was enamoured by the raindrops on my window and the rains lashing the streets, so I enjoyed the sight with a warm mug of coffee. (Damn, I’d forgotten I as fond of coffee since I’ve begun my loyal, continuing affair with ginger tea!)

By the time it was 2, I realised I had a movie to go to… None other than KUNG FU PANDA 2!!! And that too in 3D!!!

A quick shower and lip-smacking, piping hot Maggi later, I reached E-Square. Wonder of wonders, unlike most occasions where the rain will increase the moment you’re outdoors, it actually let up and I could reach the theatre without getting drenched. Thanks Lord Varun. Muaaaaah!

As expected, the movie was fantastic. I’m crazy about part 1 and I already knew I would adore the sequel.

But before I go onto details, I MUST say this…
Is there among us any individual who finds the national anthem at the beginning of the movies drab or tedious? Dude or dudette, mend your ways before you hear from me… Coz I think it’s marvellous. It’s a reminder for us to recall that we’re Indians and there are people out there who are fighting for the nation and us citizens.

While most screened anthems focus on the artists and the musical elements, the one that I deem the most moving and patriotic is where the Indian army atop the Siachen glacier is shown holding the flag amidst difficult weather conditions. My eyes well up more than a few times as I look at the soldiers waving the flag and trying to hold it high as natural calamities push them down. And yet, they don’t give up. And yet, they have a smile on their face and passion in their hearts. The dedication and fire in their soul lights up their face and eyes when they hear or sing the Indian national anthem.

And I feel proud… to be the one that they are defending… to be a part of this wonderful nation and civilization… to be alive and capable. Jai Hind! There’s none other like you, Mother India…

Really… I appeal to you… Enjoy the moment the next time you go to watch a film on the big screen. Don’t think that the anthem is interfering with your movie experience – make it a part of the experience. Watch the video, sing along, feel the beat and the emotion that is so tangible you can almost sense yourself with the soldiers – praying and applauding our beautiful and great country...

Awrite, no more gyaan… just do it, okay? No more groans or disrespect when the anthem is on.

Mind it.

So… Kung Fu Panda 2… the story is as simple as this – there is a wicked peacock that was banished, and he returns, so the Dragon Warrior and Furious Five set out to drive him away and save China. As luck would have it, Po has a weird connection with the peacock, which prevents him from showing the valour of the Dragon Warrior a couple of times. This is when the Tigress, Monkey, Mantis and Snake step in to take charge and avoid defeat through their brilliant coordination and expertise in Kung Fu. As the plot unfolds, Po realises that the goose isn’t his real father. He gets curious about where he came from, which he finally learns, but doesn’t still know about the whereabouts of his parents. (That is where the makers have given out the hint of a third part of the movie.) The peacock is got rid of, and the troupe return victorious along with Master Shifu and 2 other mighty warriors – a rhino and crocodile.

We gotta admit - Folks in Hollywood have a knack for storytelling and it’s completely paisa vasool. The dialogues and humour are super, and the direction and animation is mind-boggling. As if all that wasn’t enough, there are 3D effects in the movie that make it incredibly terrific! You can almost reach out and touch your favourite warrior! Or you can have things thrown at you and tackle a few fiendish wolves.

All in all, a splendid blockbuster! Must watch for you all… If you want to find your INNER PEACE :) Coz after all, it’s not what your beginning was – it may not be as great as you’d like, but you can certainly decide who you want to be. That is of the essence. Happy viewing! My rating – 10 on 10!

(Oh, and for those of you that have asked or told or requested me to watch Hangover 2, I already have... and I was bored to death! What was all the hullaballoo about?? It was poorly made, the jokes were the same old, and it really did not live up to expectations. I slept through the movie. Waste of money. Guess Hollywood folks make blunders too. I'm sure if you are a boy, you'll have liked this film. No wonder... men are dumb. No discussion on this. Period.)

(So are women, actually... But anyway, the point is the movie was silly and monotonous.)

Luckily for me, the rains had taken a lesson or two from the movie, so they’d decided to give us a breather! I could visit the famed and extraordinary Inorbit (going by Pune’s current mall standards). And let me say, it did justice to its reputation. It’s huge to say the least, and the brands it houses are first-evers in Pune. I felt like I’d returned to my day in Saket (Delhi) where I visited 3 colossal malls all in one straight row. I guess I can say - Pune’s arrived! All set to join the league…

But I’ll also add, I would never go shopping to Inorbit! It’s too massive for my liking, and this confuses me when I’ve to buy something. I’m not averse to picking up a few garments though from Globus and W, or hanging out at the food court and coffee bar. And… great crowd!!

Hunger pangs struck, so we called it a day and headed to Kareem’s in Camp for Kathi Kebabs. They’re unbeatable, and we topped it with a chocolate éclair at Dorabjee. Greedy me, I also packed some brownies, meringues and macaroons to eat later in the week. Pity Kayani had shut; before time as usual coz they run out of goods and products. Grrr… Need to go back one of these days and sink my teeth into their sinful Mawa cake… Yummm!

So, that was an exhaustive (literally) statement of my day.

Sunday is almost here… What you got in store, buddy?!!

I sit here feeling the breeze by the window, with oil in my hair (gave myself a relaxing head massage) and dream of munching on a meringue…

Time to end this post!! My meringue beckons…

Cheerio!
Princess

Cricket Mania

Yes, I am Indian.

Of course, I’m loyal to my country.

No, I’m not a crazy cricket lunatic.

And hey, that does not make me any less patriotic than you.

I’ve made no secret of the fact that I am not mad about what is undoubtedly India’s national game.

(Did you say hockey? I am sorry, but half the Indian youth don’t even know the names of 3 famous hockey players. Awareness should certainly be an important criteria for choosing the national anything. As my dad says, the national bird of India ought to be the crow as it is so famous and commonly observed, and not the peacock. Ditto for the national animal – a cow, or maybe the donkey… why the tiger? The number’s declining anyway. We don’t want an extinct national animal! One that appeals to hunters and souvenir collectors so much that they’d want to kill it!! Naah… Besides, other sportsmen in the nation also acknowledge and accept the fact that no game is greater than cricket in India.)

Anyway, the point is, I don’t go all silly and stressed when the Indian team’s playing a match, nor do I offer prayers for the Indian team to win. I do not worship Tendulkar, and I’m not star-struck by Dhoni, Kohli or Yuvi. I’m glad they won the WC and I’m pleased they made the country proud. Yet, I’m not going all ga-ga about them. Good job, guys. Move on now and don’t lose focus. The number of rewards you’re receiving is well worth all the effort you put in. I mean, really!! Every state and organization is bestowing millions on the players, and they’re being gifted cars and plots in the plush areas of the nation.

However, I WAS sucked into the riotous tornado called the ICC World Cup 2011. I had no option considering that all everyone was discussing and watching the tournament.

Did I say match? WAR is more like it. Especially the ones with Australia, Pak and Sri Lanka.

(My fav WC joke: this one was after India trounced Australia and was about to take on Pakistan… The Indian team hunted 11 kangaroos, so they’re being punished. Now, they have to defeat 11 street dogs. ROFL)

(Another one: I don’t quite remember this one, but it was during the India-Lanka match and there were pictures and smses doing the rounds about Ram defeating Ravana. Also, another one says that the Lankans now drink tea out of saucers coz Indians took the “cup”!)

(Oh, and the baap of the lot: A letter to the Thackerays says “A Delhi boy and Jharkand captain alongwith a Chandigarh chap have brought the World Cup home, and they’ve dedicated it to every Indian, especially in Maharashtra. What say now?!!”… Superlike!!)

I watched the finals with as much gusto as any average Indian. Watching the cricketers sweat and run around in the heat made me feel sorry for the boys. And impressed too. Well done lads! Well done…

It was outstanding. The atmosphere in the entire country was lively, optimistic and contagious. I’m afraid to think what would have been the case had India lost the final or semi-final. The team would’ve been ashamed, the citizens would have been incensed and frustrated. Newspapers would unearth another scam and reporters would go nuts hatching and revealing schemes and frauds.

But why be negative when the outcome of the WC has been so frigging amazing? People like my uncle and me who couldn’t care less about cricket sat down for the final match and watched and cheered as madly as teenage boys. I was a little scared about our fate when Sehwag and Tendulkar shamed us with their poor scores; I half thought we’d lost it. Yet, I know the majority of the nation still was hopeful and not for a minute did they stop vouching for India’s prowess and triumph.

What can I say, Dhoni sealed the match with the last ball… and 1.2 billion Indians within the country applauded lustily! The fire crackers were deafening as were the throngs that hit the city roads and celebrated India’s victory. Cricket is undoubtedly a religion here. And for so many, Sachin is god…

No points for guessing that the DLF IPL doesn’t interest me. I remember I memorized the team names last time and tried to keep up with the scores as tons of people around me were betting and raving about the matches. This time, I couldn’t care less. And honestly, after the World Cup win, the IPL is like an anti-climax. Yet, I’m not saying that the finals won’t garner much attention. Religion is religion after all :-) Be it the tenth or hundredth time, at a local or international level…

That reminds me, I need to download the IPL tune; love the baaja that kicks off their anthem.

Tana-na-na-na-nanana!!

Hail cricket!

- Princess

My Name is Anuja, and I'm NOT Calling Karthik

Happy Holi, world-mates and countrymen!

(Ain't one of my favorite festivals, but a lot of people I know are crazy about Holi. Enjoy, then! To each his own.)

I know I owe you the review of My Name Is Khan, and I'm going to give it to you though late. I saw it last week, but did not get the time to write my analysis given that I had to fill you in with my trip details and other assessments. Here you go, now...

Would you be surprised if I told you I LOVED this movie? Guess not. You are aware how much I adore and admire Shahrukh Khan, so I was bound to like the film under any condition. Add to it my indignation at MNS and their stupid reaction over SRK’s support to Paki cricketers. I mean why the hell do we talk about India being a democracy, everyone having freedom of speech and desiring to build peaceful relations with neighbors and world-mates when we can’t even allow one of our biggest icons to spread cheer and unity? And then such an ideal celebrity is punished by having his movie thrown out of theatres? How fair is that?!!

Anyway… I was told by a few people that the movie is not too great, quite boring in some places and certainly not as magnificent as publicized. These reviews did not deter or bother me. I was definitely going to watch the film and I’d made up my mind beforehand that I’d like it. I’d heard the songs, and they sounded melodious; my favorite is Noor-E-Khuda, but Tere Naina and Sajda are just as nice.

Let not my stubbornness and opinionated chatter mislead you – the film is indeed lovely. Here’s why. In three words – SRK and Kajol. The pair has rocking chemistry, man! Their friendliness and comfortableness really shows when they interact with each other. Not to forget the fact that they’re both good-looking and outstanding actors who ooze sincerity and passion. They bring alive their characters, Rizwan and Mandira, as though they were a part of our lives. And Mandira’s kid from a previous marriage (Sam – Yuvaan Makar) is cute and handsome. A happy albeit unusual family, utterly believable.

Truth be told, I’m sick of 9/11 and the stories revolving around it. There was New York, then there was Kurbaan, and now this. Yeah, the film isn’t entirely based on that fiasco, but it does touch upon the suspicious and inequitable way in which all Muslims were treated after the blast.

Why does Rizwan Khan have to meet the President? That is the question everybody is asking in the movie. And it is also the question that most people ask after watching the movie. Silly folks. The point is not why does he have to go and tell the President that he is not a terrorist. The point is (and I’m borrowing my friend’s words here coz I couldn’t find anything that was more apt…) that his beloved told him to do that, and even if she had told him to go to the moon, he would!

Ok, let’s start at the beginning. So, SRK plays Rizvan Khan, a Muslim boy from India who has Asperger’s syndrome – an autistic disorder in which a person has difficulties in social interaction. So while SRK is a brilliant chap with mechanical and cognitive faculties as marvelous as in Swades, he keeps repeating words and actions, and fears crowds, noise, things that are strange and unfamiliar, and the color yellow. After the demise of his doting mother, Rizvan goes to the US to live with his brother Zakir (Jimmy Shergill) and his congenial wife Hasina (Soniya Jehan). His brother puts him to work as a salesman for beauty products and his work leads him to Mandira (Kajol), a hair stylist.

It’s love at first sight for Rizu, and he tries all that he can to get Mandira to marry him. Which involves serenading her and finding out places that she’s never seen before. Mandy has a sad but brave past of her own, and she decides to tie the knot with Rizu coz he’s so sweet and nice at heart. The trio start living happily together and everything is rosy for a while. Then 9/11 happens and life goes haywire for the Khan family, because of their religion and surname. People start avoiding them, and the kid loses his life in a racial assault. Happy times over.

Mandira can’t bear this heartbreak, and blames Khan for her loss. She tells him to go inform everybody in the world that he is a Muslim but not a terrorist, that all Muslims are not bad. Rizu has no idea why he is being accused, but he can do anything that a loved one tells him. So, just as he fulfilled his mum’s wish by settling down in a happy family, he sets off to fulfill his spouse’s command. On the way, he comes across various people that he forges a bond with and spreads the message of love, peace and goodwill.

There are some heartrending scenes where he is tortured and maltreated because people find his (Asperger-related) behavior suspicious and his name (Khan) threatening. Each step that Rizu accomplishes and each person he endears on his difficult journey strikes a chord with the audience. Shergill, Parvin Dabbas, Vinay Pathak, Navneet Nishan and the cute tomboy from Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na (Sugandha Garg) occupy trifling roles.

The songs and their situation are extremely apt and emotive. Though Rizwan’s dominance and influence on the American media and citizens is a tad questionable, it is not unpardonable. So, thanks to Rizvan’s sensitive and caring nature, a small town called Wilhemina is restored alongwith its residents. Because he becomes so popular, the US President himself calls him upon stage and congratulates him on his courage and devotion to the people. Mission impossible attained. Cheers!

My name is Anuja, and I suggest you watch this one. My rating – 8 on 10.
(Could have been a bit shorter.)

Broadening the scope of Rizwan Khan’s message: All Indians are not terrorists.
(Balls to those who are. Hate you, scumbags.)

I also saw Karthik Calling Karthik over the weekend, and my verdict is boo! It's not innovative and it's not extraordinary. I mean, a schizophrenic who records voice messages for himself - just how WOW is that? I hate Farhan Akhtar and the movie belongs to him, but Deepika looks stunning though her role ain't meaty enough.

A Rubik's cube depicts Farhan's life when it is a mess to being perfect. He's used like a punching bag by colleagues and bullied by all those around him. His life changes like never before... courtesy his namesake calling him every dawn at 5 and counseling/training him. The transformation happens night after night when Karthik talks to Karthik, until the loser becomes the king with the perfect job, the perfect life and the perfect girlfriend. And then, life goes downhill, when he screws his own life. Happy ending, obviously. Don't ask for more details. Not worth it.

Farhan's a torture on all senses, and without my passion for "Hey Ya" and 2 packets of popcorn, I wouldn't have been able to sail through the movie. Avoid. Watch Teen Patti if you must; it's got a better review.

Asta La Vista!

Princess

Pondi trip - Day 7

(Check vacation snaps @http://picasaweb.google.com/anuja.rathi/PondiTripFeb2010?feat=directlink. Do read the posts below this to get info prior to this day)

My last morning in Pondy…

I was feeling so nostalgic, so sad. I did not want to end this vacation, and leaving for Chennai was the first step in this regard.

I lazily got ready and packed by bags. I’d hardly done any shopping – just a few jholas and some souvenirs. So it didn’t pose a monstrous feat. Somehow even my bag seemed reluctant to go back to hometown…

Returning to Pune wasn’t just about returning to the city of my birth and childhood and adulthood. It was about coming back to the place where I lost my temper with my family, the place where I interacted daily with the same friends and colleagues, the place that I was familiar with to the limit of frustration… I love change that is constructive and innovative, and Pune dishes out the same old life and routine to me. Of course, you can argue that life is what we make it. But c’mon, I can’t just bunk office and head for a picnic every other day! Nor can I ask my parents to take a hike and leave me alone undisturbed by their recurring questions and comments!

Now now… I guess I’m over-reacting. Obviously I love Pune. The wonderful resto-bars in Koregaon Park, the great times I have with my pals at parties and movies, the crazy jokes I share with the colleagues and neighbors. It would be unfair of me to say I dislike the town. But that doesn’t stop me from saying that I thoroughly enjoy a vacation now and then, at a destination where I can be calm and free.

Pondicherryyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!

Boo hoooooo…

Bahut hua melodrama. Time for me to check out. Good bye Ginger @ Karuvadikuppam (Hush! Finally got the name right!) Thanks for having me all week, I shall be back soon :-)

ECR beckoned and Karthik drove me vigilantly to Chennai. At a location called Vilambur, I ate lunch in a restaurant named Midway. The place looked fairly crowded and well-liked, but unfortunately, the food wasn’t as good. The buffet lunch was cold and costly. There was an aviary outside that housed several cute birds and ducks. Time to move on.

I’d noticed an amusement park called Disney World on my way from Chennai to Pondicherry, and I asked Kartik to pull over when we reached it about 2 hours later. Turned out it was Dizzie World, a theme-based water park with some adventure rides in an area called Muttukadu (weird name!). Had the entry not been 400 bucks, and had I had more time on hand, I would have visited it. Well, gotta leave something for next time!

The traffic scene in Chennai is not predictable, and the airport lies outside the main city. While I did have time to say hello to the Marina beach, I did not have the leisure of some shopping or sightseeing. I got some sandwiches and a chocolate doughnut packed for dinner from Marrybrown and asked the driver to continue driving to the (MAA - Meenambakkam) aerodrome.

With over 2 hours to spare before I checked in for my Indigo flight to Pune, I made myself comfortable at the airport lounge and unwrapped the sandwiches with my eyes glued to Memories of Midnight.

MoM is the story of a woman… actually it’s a story of several people… However, the central character is a woman who has lost her memory, and regains it by the end of the novel. Her story makes up a very small part of the book. The major chunk comprises of Demeris, the baddie who has tremendous power and passion, and his exploits with his family, friends, enemies and rivals. Every tale that involves the rogue is full of brutality and malice, yet he inspires awe and fear. He doesn’t forgive and he never forgets, so he ends up killing most people that he is associated with, and he charms the hearts of women only to destroy them later.

I’m tempted to give out some (not all) details coz I loved the book as much as I did the Prisoner of Birth and Godfather. But I shan’t. Not unless someone here specifically asks for it. The book is a brilliant one, and Sidney Sheldon proves his mettle as a gifted writer. I’m glad this one’s on my shelf.

Yumm… Marybrown is good!

I boarded my flight at 9.15 pm and settled down to have a nap. No such luck. There was a baby girl who’d taken a fancy to my hair and an intense dislike to flying. As she whimpered throughout the 90 minutes, I relived every single moment of my Pondi trip. Right from Rock Beach to Ayyi Mandapam, Le Café to Le Space, Auro beach to Chunnambar, Palak Paneer to lobster, anxiety and adventure to mirth and loneliness…

I’d almost forgotten my English while speaking in telegrams and sign language to the Tamil-Telugu people. My tip to you is, keep speaking to people back home in fluent Hindi and/or English so that your language doesn’t go for a toss!

When I landed in Pune at 10.45, the first news that I got was of the blast at German Bakery. WHAT THE HELL? Pune was always considered a safe haven, a place beyond reproach and terror. The bombing at GB shook the roots of the city and the people. It’s a shame – one of the most popular hangouts in the city is ravaged; screw you terrorists! Rot in hell…

A dream ends and real life begins… Nothing is forever…

Welcome back to Pune, Anuja.

Good to be back! Why?

Later...

- Princess :-)

Jai Ho!!

Jai Hind!

Wish you a belated Happy Independence Day!

This comes late, I know... I was ruminating over a number of things before I came up with this post. (And the previous one, a poem, if you haven't read it yet.)

Say, it's good to know that my countrymen are all Indian... At least in spirit, if not in action.

Of course, we stand up when the national anthem is played before every movie in the cinema hall, and we cheer when India is playing a cricket match against Pakistan or Australia.

We feel proud when Akshay Kumar rattles off impressive statistics quoting the greatness of our nation in Namaste London, or when Shahrukh Khan admonishes his team in Chak De for not giving precedence to their nation, referring to their individual states instead.

When an Indian wins an international honor, we celebrate in our homes and streets, and we join peace marches for deaths that happen on the battlefield.

We forward e-mails and sign petitions...

But do we all vote?

This year maybe we did, courtesy the stunning Jaago Re campaign.
But do we know and practice our responsibilities otherwise?

I confess, I am a stupid citizen. I don't have a voter's card, despite applying for it thrice in the last 4 years. I hate politics and I don't know what I can do to prove myself a worthy and partiotic and well-meaning Indian. I don't pollute the air/water/soil much, but I also have not made any significant contributions to humankind or the world yet. Some righteous folks might say I'm as good as not living... if living is the right of those who know how to make a difference, those who know how to make their countries proud and strive to its development. Maybe I'm self-centred and cynical. Just like the rest of us...

However, the truth is I feel very bad for our nation, and I wish there was something we all could do to make it a better place. We have the best of everything - people, resources, intelligence, capability. But we aren't utilizing it effectively. I'm aware the simplest way out is to blame the bureaucracy and corruption, but though I admire and enjoy Anil Kapoor in Nayak, I can't be him... Wish someone was...

I asked a couple of folks what Independence meant to them. I asked what they would say to Mother India if they happened to meet her, and what she would say to them. Here are a few answers I received... Reproduced by permission. (Thanks, friends!)

Bhanu (Guru, met him at ISABS, inseparable since) - What would we say to her? Nothing. She knows it all. Half of us would stand in pride, the others hang their heads in shame.
I hope in her second visit, we'd all be proud!

Sibi (THE Buddy) - To me, freedom is leaving the house at 2 am without fear, doing what I want to do, legally, of course.
If Mother India arrives, she'd look into our eyes and say "care for me a little bit and I'll take care of generations that are yet to come."
And we'd stand there expressionless, waiting to get back to our work and schedules...

Abba (my Uncle, who I refer to so often here. For the record, my grandpa was a freedom fighter and Abba, as leader of banks and educational institutions does more than a few flag-hoisting ceremonies back at my ancestral place) - Every Independence Day reaffirms my faith in India.
If Mother India appears, she would say your society passes, but just barely!
I'd reply, we could've done better had we not all been so selfish and unscrupulous...

Ketaki (a school-and-college-mate, a very smart lady, as you shall shortly acknowledge) - Independence to me is light and liberation of every Indian citizen.
If Mother Earth ever incarnated down to our Motherland, she would rightly show us the path towards illumination, which would be virtuous and lawful victory over the social and economic demons that dwell here.
We, as Her children would ask her to bless us with the power to think with precision, challenge and work towards a better and brighter tomorrow for us and for the generations to come.

Hmmmm... smart folks, eh?
Would love to hear your answers and comments, too readers!

Thank ye all, and lets pray we become a better community and nation soon... I'm sick of hearing "India is a DEVELOPING country" and "a superpower in the making"... Bring it on!! Enough of the waiting...

Cheers!
Anuja

A Sorrowful Saunter

She walked gracefully, as lithe as a dancer,
Her pretty white saree fluttering in the breeze.
Her face shone like a thousand diamonds set ablaze,
Her hair the color of dark kohl,
Her eyes just as marvellous.

She passed through a meadow as the cattle grazed,
A frisking calf came up to her.
She cuddled it lovingly,
And noticed a hillock of plastic and garbage.
She stumbled, her mind in a haze,
She shrugged and moved on.

She treaded through the farm with lush wheat harvest,
The beauty of the crop set her heart free.
When she looked up at the sky,
She saw a tall skyscraper threatening to take over the farm.
Amidst the thorns, her saree tore a wee bit.

She reached the river-bank,
The blooming lotuses, playing kids and ducks soothed her soul.
The water glistened and she looked carefully,
A ring of oil and chemicals floated past.
Her face clouded over and dazzling smile faded.

A bell rang in the temple nearby,
She walked to it to bow to the Lord.
A queue stood waiting for worship,
As a wealthy zamindar strutted past.
A child ran ahead for a glance of the idol,
The pandit rushing to greet the landlord shoved him out of the way.
Her hair turned limp and lustreless.

She entered the city gates,
Tired and morose, still hopeful.
After all, education was beneficial, right?
"Yes, we'll destory the basti (=settlement) and the surrounding trees,
The mall will be ready by next September.
Just get my son the Ferrari, and I'll make sure the bridge collapses."
Her eyes moistened and eyebrow twitched.

As she roamed the streets she saw,
Young kids begging and tricksters scheming,
Man fighting against man,
Under the pretext of God, values and religion.
Law-makers and police abusing rights and responsibilities.
The youth ready to pack their bags and leave,
"After all, what's there in India anyway?!!
The future of this country is in the dumps!"
She watched the future speaking, dumbstruck.

Not a Tsunami, not an earthquake, nor droughts,
Could make these people understand just how terrible their deeds were.
These reminders were showing them a glimpse of the final consequences,
Which they encashed and exploited to rob their own kind.

Her heart went out to the jawan on the border,
She shed tears for those that had laid down their lives for freedom,
There were few who promised to make the nation proud,
But the country teemed with evil and cynical, selfish monsters.

She treaded her lonely path,
Her walk sorrowful and soul in despair.
The saree torn and dishevelled,
Her face stained with tears and grime.
Hair the color of pepper and salt,
Eyes red as peaches.

"Oh my children," she sighed,
As she trudged away to nowhere,
Shaken and hurt, morose and lost,
"My children, how I wish..."

Nothing Billu About It...

I’m not quite sure what happened on or after Feb 14th with reference to the Pink Chaddi buddies, but here’s what Times of India quoted on D-day (aka V-Day) : Perhaps never before has underwear played such an important part in Indian cultural history. The “Pink Chaddi” campaign, launched by the Consortium of Pubgoing, Loose Forward Women, has attracted hordes of members — the number has touched 34,032 and still counting — making it one of the most popular sites these days.

Well, teme one thing, mates - Who decides what is Indian and un-Indian? Is democracy and freedom of expression a myth, something to decorate our constitutional charter, without understanding or adhering to?

I’m outraged at these goondas parading around spreading terror as “moral police”. Uneducated, ruthless rascals - are they equally tyrannical at their homes with their daughters and wives? Or is this honor saved only for those that are outside their control? I feel sorry for their depraved upbringing and decadent principles. They flaunt their so-called patriotism and aspire to protect “Indian” dignity by molesting and inhumanely assaulting their own country-mates! I wonder how fair that is... And how Indian, too...

However, one positive outcome of such mawali behavior is that the youth has finally decided to stop lying low, and actually do something against injustice and mistreatment of self and the larger community. They acquired their perfect, civilized medium in the form of the blogosphere and world wide web, which was hitherto used primarily for chatting and loafing. Apart from the Pink Chaddi crew, there are a hundred many individuals and groups airing their opinions and seeking support. (Remember I told you about this gentleman who invited people to the Taj gates to protest against the Mumbai attacks?) Finally, learned people (who are cultured as well) have found a way to raise their voice with sophistication and humanity. Cheers to that!

You must be wondering about today’s title. The reference - I happened to watch the recent SRK movie – Billu (initially titled Billu Barber) over the weekend. The verdict – Mujhe Budbuda ka (non-jungli) Billu bahut pasand hai.

You must have heard tales of Krishna as a child, and how he had this impoverished childhood pal Sudaama, whom he loved with all his heart. The very same story that you heard then is now made into a full-length movie; Sahir SRK Khan as the charismatic superstar, and Irrfan as the poor naai (=hajaam) who cuts hair for a living. The story is about how these two langotiya yaars meet serendipitously and are reunited by fate.

SRK is his real self in the movie – right from his humble interaction with the simple villagers to his pride at being the superstar he is. (Did you hear he had his 7th surgery yesterday?) The songs are quite frequent, but they’re not repulsive. The movie belongs to Irrfan, who easily charms the audience with his self-esteem and integrity. The rest of the cast is pakka Priyan – the same folks as Malaamal Weekly, Hulchul and the rest. Rajpal Yadav (the official brand ambassador of Roopa Frontline!!) and Om Puri are wasted in the movie, and the heroines with item songs breeze by amidst appealing choreography and fascinating sets.

The movie is by no measures a must-watch in the cinema hall, nor can I say you should watch is on DVD, for that matter. It’s strictly OK. If you care more about your popcorn cravings than the actual screenplay, go for it.

Moving on to an important announcement!! Say hello to the newest kid on the block, a recent addition to the “crazy-about-the-radio” brigade... Taadaaa!! Mommy dearest!! I was stunned the other day to see the music system in her room, and she perpetually walking to it every 2 minutes to change the frequency or raise the volume. A Ghanta Singh fan, she doesn’t tire of repeating how old songs are unparalleled in rhythm and lyrics even as she tries to sing new songs in her own style. (Drives me crazy. Blame the perfectionist streak.)

Hey, another piece of news - I bought a brand new Nokia 3110 – not a very fancy instrument but suits my budget and requirements fine. SMS is a challenge currently, coz Moto and Nokia have different typing styles (the space button, send and clear functions, etc.) Wasting quite a bit of money when incomplete messages get sent erroneously, but I’m trying... Yippee! New phone, new phone!! I miss you already Moto darling. Your sleek, slim style will forever remain on the top of my admiration list!

Gotta go; competency mapping calling!

Love,
Princess

Download PDF (Patriotism, Dreams and Fun)

Hi!

Friday’s here, sweethearts. And this is a long weekend in India, courtesy our Republic Day. (Indians rejoice not coz of the significance of the day, but coz it’s a public holiday.)

I have written about patriotism twice I think (it was the review of Aamir one of those two times, and a general rant the other time.) I don’t know if I have shared this with you before, but I feel proud and amazing when I see everyone standing up for the national anthem before a movie starts in the cinema hall. Something tingles inside to see the community respecting the national symbol as one!

I dreamt about animals last night. (Don’t get startled; I’ve had dreams wilder and more bizarre than this!) What kicked off the dream were two mighty elephants, grey-white, with long legs and massive ears. They were slipping backwards over a slight incline, and a rider on one was sliding down as well. (Slowly, fortunately for him.) But the situation wasn’t fatal; they all seemed in control of themselves.

I saw this as I was riding pillion with an old dame in a saree. (I don’t know who she was and what business of mine it was to sit behind her!) As we hit a dirt track, a lion started its hot pursuit of us. As the creature chased us at breakneck speed, I screeched to the grandma to go fast fast fast! And fast, she went. (Don’t know how she did it at her age!)

As I looked back, I saw a man wildly signaling to us to slow down and stop, but we thought he was out of his mind to give sucha foolish suggestion. When the lion was almost at our tail, I realized we had no scope of outrunning the beast, and so we might as well do the man’s bidding. Grandma hit the brakes, and wonder of wonders! The lion dashed past us. Seems like he just wanted a good race!!

(Hehe. Tells us we should think outside the box, and if we cannot, then we ought to give others’ ideas a chance.)

My dreams are as unusual as they are amusing. I once dreamt that I was sitting with Sunny Deol watching television, and I also dreamt that my school was inundated with snow!

I often see my school and schoolmates in my dreams. (Had anyone else said the same to me, I’d have expressed that there could be some psychological or unresolved issues during the said period. But, that ain’t true for me as far as I know.) I have seen Radhika and Neha a million times, as I have Kunal and a few others. It’s true I was very attached to all these people, but by no means do I have anything to share with them that I haven’t already.

I just wish my schooldays had been more cheerful and memorable. Didn’t enjoy being teased about my skin color and specs... Now, of course, when they look at me, I see the appreciation and admiration in their eyes about the person I‘ve become. The perfect story of the ugly duckling becomes pretty swan. (I said pretty, NOT beautiful!)

Well, that’s that about dreams. In real life, I’m currently struggling with “Organizational Restructuring”. Some client request. Hope it doesn’t turn out like the Performance Appraisal Review Meeting, where all my mammoth research and effort appears to have gone waste as the client absconded after hearing the commercials.

Come to think of it, Indians want the best stuff at paltry prices. Alchemy is by no means low-priced, and neither was inlingua, one of the most expensive language institutes in the city, where I worked as a language trainer for 2 years. Independent of the fact that I have been a loyal employee who enjoys her work, the truth is both deliver quality. And quality comes at a cost.

(Not like a few other language coaching schools I know that charge half as much and teach the beginner and advanced levels simultaneously! I mean what da #^$% ??!!! How can you learn the vowels and perfect tenses at the same time?!!)

I keep getting the news from inlingua that a lot of instructors keep coming and going. (Tough to last when one surrounded by politics.) But what’s in the news, the papers I mean, is the adverts of some training firms that have adopted inlingua’s yellow-black scheme – like Seed Infotech, and another one, I think it was Yellowbox. I still tend to think of my last workplace as my own... The ironies of life!!

Apart from work, what’s happening in my life at the moment, is dealing with the electronics in my home. Gifted my parents a Philips juicer-mixer-grinder (as I’d told you) for their anniversary, and bro gifted them cell-phones. Dad bought a new bread toaster recently, and we’ve been planning to get a plasma TV for ages.

Hey, have you been watching Roadies? The one episode I’ve seen since they started their journey was where Rannvijay (whatta dude, man!) poses Hindi mindbenders, and the ladies have to answer, failing which the guys get whacked on their balls. Uh uh. “Immunity” in the game at what cost?!! Oh, and the money task was to collect shit from all across the desert. The Roadies managed to gather cartloads of excreta – animal, and even human. With their bare hands. Ughhh...

I must say I’m disappointed with the lot. None of the contendors seems to have the “zing” factor that makes a Roadie a Roadie – Polomi, Varisha, Palak, Devarshi, Suzzana, Pradeep, Kiri, and other punters whose names I don’t even recall... All duds. No winning streak unlike Prabhjyot and others in the previous seasons.

Talking about TV shows, did you know about this cartoon character called “Hagemaru”? He looks Japanese, and I’m so sure they did not consider the Hindi translation of the name... (For the uninitiated, it means something on the lines of “shit and hit”. Gross, I know. I remember chatting with my friends when Skoda Laura was launched. How Indians wouldn’t buy that car coz it sounds like the male organ in Hindi...)

Enough chat for the day... Time to sign out! Have a great weekend! See ya Tuesday!

Bharat Mata Ki... Jai!
Princess

Jhanda Uucha Rahe Hamara...

I’m feeling very patriotic। Maybe coz I saw this cute video on You Tube... Check it out!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5phDlQIOfls

So, honestly guys and gals, how many of us know the National Anthem by heart? (For those who don’t, take a hike people! Ye video wali bacchi se seekho kuch... Shame on you!)

As I’ve shared before, there’s this school next to my office where each day they conclude with a recitation of Vande Mataram. I was trying to recall the lyrics of Saare Jahaan Se Accha the other day. I could only recollect one para – Purbat mein ho agar hum, rehta hai dil watan mein... Samjho wahi hume bhi dil ho jaha hamara...

Sad, eh?! I learnt it and 20 other nationalistic poems and songs in school. But now, I hardly remember any. What’s your opinion on Value/Moral Education in schools? And what do you think about screening the National Anthem at theatres? I think both are interesting measures to inculcate discipline and ethics. How far they last? Anybody’s guess...

So the news is that Jet Airways has fired over 1900 employees stirring the MNS into action (updates say they have been reinstated). The global financial crisis has hit organizations big time, and effects are already evident on the share market and other sectors like software and tourism. Outsourcing companies may have a reason to rejoice as they could profit in this period. The Indian Government has announced that Indian banks are safe, so your money’s not in danger (noone’s gona let you know when disaster strikes, so keep praying). Stay updated (don’t depend on me; I don’t read the newspapers or watch news too often! Find out and leme know as well!)

Another piece of news is that Mr. Narendra Modi has said that voting will be made compulsory, and people are venting their ire and discomfort with this statement. Hello?! I thought democracy was all about voting and choosing your own leaders! How does your NOT voting help the nation any? I just don’t understand what humans want...

Saturday today... Weekend time... I want to go to a pub, get smashed and dance like there’s no tomorrow. I want to take a vacation and go off somewhere where I can relax with a book, and watch the waves sipping on coffee and thinking a million deranged and irrational thoughts. Absolutely no disruptions in the form of phone calls or acquaintances.

But here I am, and I know I will do nothing of either sort. I will be the good gal who goes to M. G. Road, has a coffee, chats up with friends and returns home in time for dinner. How rightly do they say : Good girls go to heaven, bad girls go everywhere!

And finally, a fascinating tidbit from the useless knowledge widget that you can see on this page: Athazagoraphobia – this is the fear of being ignored or forgotten. I think I have it. And the fear of lizards. And also the fear of dirty animals, be it dogs or cats or whatever. And the fear of being embarrassed. And the fear of failure. And... I’m getting to be your regular hypochondriac. Shut me up, folks!

Ba-bye buddies! Happy weekend!

Lonely Princess

Life...

Wassup buddies!

I read sumwhr, dat d worst thin in life is whn someone u know becomes someone u knew… I can only nod my head whn I think of dis statement… Thr r so many ppl who I considerd close, but mebe dat wasn’t a mutual feelin coz many drifted away never to return, and those dat did, wer so changed, dat it was hard to say I knew thm once…A small town guy, someone who I knew was a seed dat’d blossom very soon to proportions unimaginable… And he did… So much so dat nw whn I luk at him, v hav a Blackberry n a laptop n decades of unshared experiences between us… Life has changed, v hav chngd… And thrs no getg bac…

Anywaysssss....
Ready for some Shantaram? M sorry guys, r u bored wid dis rant of mine? But I cant help it, some lines frm d book jus tch a nerve dat I nd to giv it a space on my blog… Pls bear wid me… So, GDR says, sometimes v do d wrong thin for d rite reasons. We need to ensure dat d reason is right, and we need to admit wat v r doin is wrong… Dnt lie to urself dat u did d correct thin… Thr r also times whn u do d wrong thin for wrong reasons, and times whn u do d rite thin for d wrong reasons…. V shud b honest enuf to axpt d nature of d reason n our action… Evrythin u have done, are doing, or are planning to do wil fall in one of these categories. B honest enuf to axpt, and willin to change, if possible. And u’l experience more peace and calm widin…

Talkin abt life, right n wrong, I watchd Aamir d odr day. A small flick wid small content bt huge implications. It is d epitome of d Hindu-Muslim war dat has been ragin for centuries now. D movie has d power to make u feel, which is d best thin any phenomena – livin or dead, can do to u… Starrin d TV superstar Rajeev Khandelwal, d movie is a tale of a Muslim doc who returns to “aamchi Mumbai” aftr studyin abroad to c his family. D punchline is “wud u still screen me so intensely if my name was Amar n nt Aamir?!” – d line d protagonist uses when d airport official grinds him at checkout. However, d storyline wud best b described by dis particular scene in d movie whr thrs a toy and a person winds d key to make d toy work, and prods it whn it dsnt, and finally pushes it away whn its non-functional… D same way, Aamir is coerced to follow a million silly instructions (which r nt actually silly, as he later find out) n jus askd to run throughout d city d minute he exits d airport. Its sickening and saddenin in turns; d way the anonymous caller commands his existence n behavior… One wonders how resignd n helpless one is in d face of fate. V’r mere puppets in d hands of destiny n circumstances can mould us any way they wish. Especially d scene whr Aamir tries to protect a bag (a glarying and horrifyin red!) dat holds d key to his and his family’s freedom n wellbeing. D way he requests and says “bhaijaan” to hoodlums who r wrenching d bag away frm him… painful! Not enuf to draw tears, bt certainly heartrending… Rajeev dsnt hav to work too hard to act naturally, coz d plot is such dat it automatically brings out d relevant emotion in u – fear, heplessness, sorrow, anger, frustration, desperation… n dat entire gamut of negative feelings dat comprise life… However, d end is quite predictable. Sari bollywood movies ki ek hi problem… D minute u hear Aamir means “leader”, u kno thrs a martyr in d makin… A decent attempt to portray d state of Muslims who r shunned in India (dno y v keep stressing on dis aspect, I’v got Muslim frens n thrs no ill-will betwn us!) n driven against their choice to join d Holy War (“Jihad”), how d person behind d reins is brainf***ed n cant think logically n positively, hw innocent ppl get branded as terrorists n their sacrifice remains unknown, unspoken, unappreciated... Not a must-watch, bt if its on cable n u’v got time to spare, thn go for it. It’s on d 18th of July, I think... dno wat time n channel, bt hell! Do a lil homework, folks!!

Well, m doin gud, thnx for askin ;-) nuthin much hapg, my new workplace is pretty relaxd... Thr r times whn I discover thins in bits n spurts n d rest is jus chill-time... V conduct OBLs n team interventions, so whn I join d offsite, it’s a lot of fun n learning. Like d last time thr wer lotsa activities on teambldg, n dis time tho d theme remains d same, v’r gona do adventure stuff like rafting n rappelling... Lookin forward to it!

Chillax people!
Muuuaaaaaaaahhhh!
Take care, coz I care....
- Anuja