Local Train or Vocal Train?

                       "Datta Darshanaalaa Jaayaacha Jaayaacha Jaayaacha..
                        Datta Darshanaalaa Jaayaacha Jaayaacha Jaayaacha..
                        Anand potaat maajhya maaina ra maaina,
                        Anand potaat maajhya maaina......."
(Rough translation from Marathi - I go for "Darshan" of Lord Datta. And I just can't contain the happiness.)

There I am, standing in a packed morning local train from Borivali. Waiting for the train to move, reading a book. The horn blows, train starts moving, and suddenly, after a loud "Ganpati Baapaa Morya" and "Pundalik varade, haari vithhal....", the above song starts echoing through the train coach. The "Zaanzaa" (an aarti instrument) start accompanying the song. And I simply stop reading the book and get engrossed with the song(the fact that I stopped reading a damn interesting book says a lot).
Whether I'm a conventionally religious person/a theist or not is irrelevant here, for that is not the reason of closing the book and being involved with the song. It is rather the strength that the song and the music emits. A local train travel at the peak rush hours is a very tiring experience in itself for some, and seldom goes a day when I don't witness a quarrel in the local train journey. In this context, there is often a group in at least some trains that is daily singing these songs lasting their entire journeys. And believe me, I haven't noticed a quarrel in any of such coaches, where the harmony of this music establishes its presence over everything.
At the start of it, you just enjoy the beats, the tunes, the fact that it is not some famous singer but just a common man like you and me who is singing such a beautiful melody. Gradually, you tend to forget the time in which you are supposed to reach a particular station. You become more and more calm and peaceful. I don't know how many of you will agree with me, but it slowly yet surely synchronizes loud voices and silent voices alike. Oh yes, I'm not singing loudly absolutely does not mean that I'm not singing with them in my head. It creates an invisible yet very much present connection with whoever comes within its reaches. It is such a power - a power that does not intimidate, rather, that binds people together! Is that what was the whole purpose behind the concept of singing "aarti" for different gods, in their unique sense of languages/religions/ethnicity? I have always believed so.
Coming back to the train. Whenever I get in such lucky coaches, I forget whatever work/non-sense I have at my hands. Let it be songs that I would otherwise listen to with my earphones, books that I love to read or at times read-up for an exam that I would be facing in few minutes. Whatever I have described above may seem to be a little superfluous or impractical to a few. But then, somehow I have always managed to find that serene place inside me upon closing my eyes when I travel in such trains. The wish - why couldn't my destination be a little more farther - always comes next.

As I conclude, another such song I recently heard keeps repeating itself in my head. Incidentally, Today is "Aashaadhi Ekadashi", and this song kind of relates to this day.
                                        "Hya Vithu cha, gajar hari - naamaacha, jhenda rovila...!!!"

P.S. Pardon the reference to Marathi songs, and days significant to Maharshtrians if you are unable to understand. I just go by the recent most such experience of mine.

In-class sleep

"Last night I had watched this episode and that
as a kid I had seen a magician, his rabbit, his hat.."
whoa, suddenly I realize, I'm in a lecture deep
and thus I write about in-class sleep...

as I wake up with a sudden jerk,
I extend my neck and try to gather the classwork,
at that I fail miserably, yet I peep and peep,
and thus I write about in-class sleep...

I give up on that and then I look around,
hoping that others are on the same ground,
some fully concentrating, give me creep,
am I the only one with in-class sleep?

But then some nice people are a reassuring sight,
I observe them, with sleep they fight,
the world is still not a place so steep,
some phenomenon it is, in-class sleep...

It's like a world in a trance,
vivid images blow up and around they dance,
it's a state of 'high' without any shot or nip,
and thus I write about in-class sleep...

There's a class to sleeping in class,
it needs some skill, not a job for the mass,
I'm not sure if this poem is classy or cheap,
regardless, I go back to in-class sleep...!!!

Shock, challenge and bliss : A tale of the unexpected

Till date, there have been countless times when I have blessed government of India and RBI for printing the currency notes on a fine piece of paper. It is strong enough to go in a wash with the clothes, and still come out in one piece after the dried clothes are in our hands. The note in the above picture was the latest addition to the list of such notes - the notes that have given me so much happiness so many times, just because I never expected to find it in my pockets.
In our lives, there are too many things happening unexpectedly. Some, at times bring shock with it. The very first paper in the engineering exams (the beautiful Mathematics) was one such example. News of one particular person hooking up with another one particular person, was another. Of course, with time there have come to my knowledge too many pairs of such "one particular persons" that the shock value of it has been reducing. Being posted to Chennai and in effect Trivandrum after training with Infosys, was another example, however momentary that shock was. On a more serious note, there are far more shocking news that reach us every day, and first reaction that we have is "It was so unexpected!"
I have always believed that it becomes very imperative to digest the shock as soon as possible, and take it as a challenge instead. I somehow again have to go back to the above mentioned mathematics paper (no, I will not go back to the other example I quoted : At least till now I have never had to take up such challenge). The challenge involves gathering all the available resources, come up with a quick strategy on how to utilize them, and implement it to the best of the abilities to get the best possible result out of it. (In context of that mathematics paper, it went as follows, in the above order : Limited knowledge and the person sitting in front of me; finishing quickly and rightly whatever I knew and verbal and chit-written communication with the person mentioned; ensuring that I attempt as much so that I don't fail in the exam.)
However, it was the part when the unexpected brings the "bliss" along with it, that the note in picture represents. 10 rupees may be a small amount comparatively, but still when one finds it when it's not expected, the bliss is eternal. At least for me it is. When a friend suddenly appears in front of me after a long time, that moment when I spot this friend makes the day and probably next few for me. Of course, that person actually needs to be a friend in my mental list. Recently after enjoying a wonderful afternoon at a place called "SODA", when the bill came, it was a brilliant moment. Why - because the bill was almost half of what I was expecting, because we happened to be there in the "Happy Hours" period. And then, how can I fail to mention all the surprises in the birthdays, and even otherwise!
The same reason why Ross, Chandler, Joey, Monica and Phoebe decided to celebrate a birthday of Rachel one month before the actual date, for it could be a complete surprise. Though they forgot that poor Chandler's birthday was to come even before Rachel's. You might not understand this last one if you haven't watched "FRIENDS". In that case, this unexpected piece of information will prove to be a bliss for you, as you should hopefully be wanting to watch this series...!!!
As I conclude this write-up, Raghu from MTV Roadies comes to my mind - "Expect the unexpected!"

IPL-NAAMa

April-May is that time of the year, when school vacations are going, Mangoes satiate most of us, the Air-Conditioner business sees happy times, and well, IPL happens. Recently, I got to thinking about the teams participating in IPL and their stylish-trendy-rocking-dashing names. And then I was thinking, do these teams justify the names that they have got? Let's see.

• Sunrisers Hyderabad : This is the recent-most addition to the IPL franchises. It's interesting, that every match they play is either around the time of sunset, or after the sunset. But then, there could be a deep meaning to it that I'm either not aware of or I have not dared to imagine. The team probably has one of the best bowling line-ups in the league, but their batting line-up - not impressive. Worst for them is the fact that few "star" players they have are not performing. Still, early days. Let's see if the Sun(Network) rises on this franchise or not.
• Kochi Tuskers : There's this friend of mine, a big fan of certain "Mini Elephant". The Kochi Tuskers always remained Mini Elephants to my liking. They seldom looked strong performers, never really looked like a competition to the lions and tigers in the jungle of the league. They had one roaring Mini Elephant though, whom one Mr. Harbhajan had tamed years back.
• Sahara Pune Warriors India : Another franchise that began participating in IPL along with Kochi Tuskers. One profound fact about this team is that the name of their sponsors "Sahara" is more highlighted than the team itself, whether it is the name of the stadium in their home location or their theme music during the match. About the warriors part. Well, they never really looked to be in any "War" as such. At maximum, they were able to pull of some "battles". Warriors under-training, maybe.
• Kings XI Punjab : For many parts in time, they did appear to be Kings, at least on the paper. But again, never really lived up to the "Kings" in their name. They have had Queen Preity as their owner though.
• Delhi Daredevils : A name that gives a very exciting impression to someone. For most parts, with the kind of players that the team has had, the name "Daredevils" suits. Alas, the Daredevil act almost always failed, leaving the team hanging by the wires that protect them. And going by the performance this year as well, they need to prepare for the stunts very hard for next year.
• Rajasthan Royals : For me, Rajasthan has always had a sort of royal touch to it. At least that is the impression in my mind. Though this royalty never enjoyed huge wealth, they managed their limited resources well. Royal winners of the 1st edition of IPL. And the captain they have in the form of Rahul Dravid for past few editions automatically adds to the royal aura surrounding the team.
• Kolkata Knight-Riders : The team had started off like brave, capable knights, from the first day in the history of IPL. But then, the knights could not move up further, the horses looked tamed. It took them the 5th edition of the IPL to achieve real knighthood. The owner they have along with certain former captain did keep the franchise in the news.
• Mumbai Indians : Before I say anything, I take a moment to think about the foreign players in this team. "Indians", really? Who knows, what they must be thinking about this fact. One good thing though, I could always associate this team with the "Indian" cricket team in the nineties. Both teams were very promising, but quite often they failed to go over the line that differentiates the good and the great. Also, they have the person in the team that put "India" on the global map and set the yardstick for greatness.
• Royal Challengers Bangalore : This team, in the inaugural edition had the word "Royal" written all over them with the kind of players that they had. But soon, the royals then made way for the princes. Nonetheless, the players are much capable of pulling off this "Royal" tag. The team has always remained "Royal Challenger". They could never be the winner, even with the full house of excellent players in the team. Let's see if they make the transition from the "challenger" to the "challenged" at least this year.
• Chennai Super Kings : This is one team that truly lives up to its name. Winner of two editions, runner ups in other two, out of total five editions. Arguably the most balanced side in the IPL, with a captain that I personally have always admired for his leadership skills and his individual performances. They still remain the side to beat according to most of the critics.

These are just the random thoughts I had when I started thinking about the names of these teams. Some may be unsubstantiated, some justified. No offence intended. Well, some is.

Having a ball - with the 'Sir'

 Today, as much diversified information we get from various sports websites about the game of our interest, comparable to it is the amount of news that we get on social media websites. Oh, and in humorous, sarcastic, and at times brutally intolerant ways.

Take for an instance, people opine that a cricket player gets more than enough opportunities. Undeserving opportunities, some even think. And then starts the roller-coaster ride. The creative Tweeple, facebookers and others act as the cogs and wheels of this roller-coaster and the ride takes on an increasing speed. The player gets a whole lot of accolades such as 'Sir', 'Lord', 'Shri Shri' and what not.

And then, there's simply no stopping it. This player is watched at all times through the Hawk's eyes. Any event, any phenomenon related even remotely to that player sets the social media ablaze. And the event in its original sense could be a positive one, or a negative one. But the result is just the same. It could be a couple of Triple Hundreds, a well-left-delivery getting him out bowled, or even a victory achieved even after getting out since technically it was a no-ball.

Yes, to a large extent we see the fun involved. Most of these people intend to make it a harmless ride, or maybe they just go with the flow as they have the impression that whole world is doing so. But at times, things seem to be going out of the line. Much to the misfortune of the player, even after he has proved that he has become a utility player and has made an impact on the game on numerous occasions, there's just no stopping it. It hasn't been seen yet, at least.

However, it is all the more heartening to see the player taking all of this in his stride, not letting it affect him in negative ways and keep on giving his best and being responsible for the success of his team. The critics may be having a ball on the social media, but there’s no backing down from the player himself. Of course, he still may have a long way to go before really standing tall above all of them. But as they say, diamond is diamond only after years and years of being under pressure. He is toiling away on the field as well as off the field. It is to be seen if he emerges as the diamond or fades away in the history like many others have.

Having said all of this, India is full of cricket crazy people. They criticize too soon, they praise even sooner. This player has been the exception in the latter case. It will be interesting to see if and when he makes the break-through.

P.S. Of the many things I admire about M. S. Dhoni, shrewd and cunning intelligence is one of them. And I don't know if he has done this intentionally or unintentionally, but the fact that he has joined the 'Sir'castic club has worked for the player in concern. Earlier criticism turned into a humorous incident, with even the "Extra Innings" seeing the funny side of it. It ought to work in favor of this player.

Avoid a void

"Hey, let's go man. I have to catch 7.12 a.m. local..!!" How many times, have we heard dialogues like these! Life today, has really become fast paced. One has to think about whole lot of things to do "tomorrow" before going to sleep "today". Some lucky ones, even look forward to the next day and the various tasks to be carried out. What if those lucky ones, do not have those tasks ahead any more?
Well, something of that sort has happened with me recently. There were at least 3 things associated with me, that I knew were going to be a crucial part of my day, every "tomorrow". And they were no mere things-to-do, they were the things I wanted to do, things I loved to do. And now, I can't do those. I will certainly talk about two of those things. Third, well, may be some other time.
We all talk about social media - How social media is good/bad, how it has affected us etc. Among all these things, one definitely good thing happened for me. I got in touch with a bunch of genius, crazy, creative and well, kick-ass people. For months, as a friend of mine says, I knew them just by their profile pics. Well, not really. Through the interactions I have had with them - meaningful as well as "Bakar" - I have known them at least to an extent. And it was really a wonderful experience. The group was supposedly formed for preparations of some exam, and the group did cater to that need, more than what I could ask for. It certainly added to my knowledge, my perspectives. There was this extended period of time when I looked forward to getting online in the night, and getting on with whatever we as a group did. And now, the exam and everything related to it has reached its finality. This is the first thing.
Around three months back, I stumbled upon an opportunity as a volunteer to go to a school, and contribute in the learning of few 4th standard kids, thanks to "Teach For India". And I grabbed it with both hands. I admit, I was a bit scared, as to how a bunch of small kids will take to me. But it was just a matter of starting. It was one hell of a ride, with these adorable kids. Naughty, definitely, but adorable and smart. The Teach For India Fellow to whom I was supposed to assist was a really nice person, from whom I learned a lot. And the time spent with the kids - teaching them, at times talking to them about completely non-academic but important issues, playing with them, trying to answer their innocent-but-difficult-to-answer questions - has meant a lot to me. And the love shown by them leaves me tongue-tied at times. The spontaneous "thank you" messages from them made me work harder for them. And now the school is over, with the kids having summer vacations. Next semester, I doubt if I can continue with this, as the much awaited MBA journey starts this June.
Such things had kept me going, each and every day, for past few months. And now suddenly I have to make do with the fact that they have taken a pause, let's say. A big pause. But hey, haven't I always believed to take the positives out with me? And that is something I intend to do, even now. I still have frequent interactions with the friends I have made while preparing for the said exam. Of course, the original intention behind starting with it is done with. But these people are still themselves. And some of you do know what making friends means to me. Slowly, gradually, there will seem a decline. But then that is something natural. What will remain important is that these people will still be friends with me. With the kids, it was certainly a wonderful learning experience for me, and I hope it was same for them too. I imagine that after few years, some of them will suddenly cross paths with me, and they have made good with their lives and still remember their Omkar Bhaiyya. Imaginations apart, the kids have showered me with affection, and I take it away with me.
But still the question remains. I do not have these things to look forward to, "tomorrow". No problems. There are so many things, that I have been wanting to do, but haven't been able to do yet. Reading few books, travelling to a few places, getting back to some old and wonderful friends, spending a little quality family time, getting hold of few entertainment series and movies, resume with the "Drums" lessons (when do I actually play successfully???)... And of course, some lazying around and eating and eating. Let's see, how many of those do I tick-mark before this summer ends...!!!

Writer's Block

There have been so many times, when this term has crossed by. Writer's Block. And a question suddenly came to my mind. When someone 'thinks' he/she is facing a Writer's Block, can he/she not write about the Writer's Block itself?

What can the Writer's Block really be..? It can certainly be a block in which a writer lives. It is may be a local habit picked up while growing up to call the place we live in, a 'block'. Or is it general? Anyway, going by the traditional sarcastic description that a writer carries, one would not imagine this block to be a lavish one. The Kurti wearing, side-bag carrying, one room block enjoying, Writer. At least, that is how lot many parents describe it to their kids. Some who are very well known may boast of a different picture altogether. Well, let them.

Or is it simply a block he/she is playing with, since he/she does not have anything else to do..?

The writer, going back to the ABC's of writing. Or he may even be making different shapes using many such blocks, and keeping himself sane. Or is he, really?

Or the writer has decided to let go of his good old profession altogether, and start building houses using real blocks?

Of course, if you revisit the traditional parental description of a writer I mentioned a little while earlier, why would the writer not do this? Maybe, just maybe, this will help the writer in the sense that things will percolate in his mind, and then he'll be back to his love..

Or, is it simply that the writer has a stuck CAPS-LOCK button on his keyboard, and whatever he writes (types) is simply coming in BLOCK letters?


Caps lock stuck or not, I think some wrong button is definitely stuck in my head. And it indicates, I need to go and do something useful. Why useful? I need to go and do, SOMETHING..!!