Coming a long way !

I am not a secure person. Until now. But for the longest time I felt this need to keep everyone around me happy; even if that meant letting others walk over me. My fatty would get so mad at me because in that process I would never be happy and the walker would always have something to crib/complain about.
In retrospect it amazes me now - how little I thought of myself and the less importance I gave myself ! How everytime I wanted to and should have been selfish - I wasn't.

Eventually, I learnt. Like always ! Somehow, through experiences and after buckets of tears, I'm here today. Happy and confident ! Glad.

I haven't changed. But I'm more secure now. I have people in my life who adore me so much that it scares me. They wouldn't want me to go anywhere. And if I did, then I had to get back ASAP. They will stick by me. I don't need to be told so. I just know. They will aww with me and they are my Manpower !
It's not the issue of "being taken for granted." And even if I do - so what ? Isn't that why we're all here ?

I know you want the best for me. And the feeling is mutual. I also know that you will be honest to me. Mutual again. I know that I do not have to tell you every second detail of my life; but you will still care after weeks ! You may not pay attention to the characters in my stories and vice versa but we know that we have to narrate the story at some point.
I may have not met you in years/months/weeks - but you kept my faith and belief in friendship and adoration alive. I don't want to be the standard that others have to live up to because that's just - again - scary ! But I want you to know that I'm secure. And it feels great !

I have learnt. I have grown. I never thought I would get here. I'm proud of myself.
I don't have to make you happy. I don't have to be answerable to you. I don't have to lie. I don't have to be fake. Now, if I don't like you - I tell you or you'll just know. Pretenses, maybe because we do live in such a society. But the buck does stop at some point.

I'm Me and you adore me for that.
True Story !

There is no surety but there's tons of assurance. That in itself is more than enough no ?
There are no false promises. In fact there are no promises at all ! So much simpler and easier our lives are then.

And yes at some point if ever I can't handle it all - then - there will be lot's of jars and many many storage space ! Saving it all for 'those" days.

<3

How to Save a Life !

The Fray - How to Save a Life

Step one you say we need to talk
He walks you say sit down it's just a talk
He smiles politely back at you
You stare politely right on through
Some sort of window to your right
As he goes left and you stay right
Between the lines of fear and blame
You begin to wonder why you came

CHORUS:
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life

Let him know that you know best
Cause after all you do know best
Try to slip past his defense
Without granting innocence
Lay down a list of what is wrong
The things you've told him all along
And pray to God he hears you
And pray to God he hears you

CHORUS:
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life

As he begins to raise his voice
You lower yours and grant him one last choice
Drive until you lose the road
Or break with the ones you've followed
He will do one of two things
He will admit to everything
Or he'll say he's just not the same
And you'll begin to wonder why you came

CHORUS:
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life

CHORUS:
Where did I go wrong, I lost a friend
Somewhere along in the bitterness
And I would have stayed up with you all night
Had I known how to save a life
How to save a life
How to save a life

Of Traveille !

There's something about being on the move, of packing up and just hitting the road. Rucksacks with bare essentials sometimes and super exclusive travel bags for our luxuries at other times. Stepping on the accelerator, or being a pillion or settling down for some good ol' country road bus drives or train journeys or tucking away in the whir of an aircraft that whizzes us away to happiness is just something we all do, whether rarely or regularly. Hence traveling and going places is so much a part of our lives, so much so that the concept of not indulging in this activity does not exist.

People always ask me whether I'm a mountain person or a beach person. And this is a question that I don't have an answer to and perhaps never will. I have tried making this choice to see what my preference may indeed be, to no avail. I don't think I can ever make that choice. Mountains have their share of enigma, mysticism and beauty. To make my way past winding roads moving higher and higher to reach peaks amidst clouds and mist is something I cannot describe. Mountains encompass forests, richness, beauty and a diversity of so much our world has to offer us that picking individual aspects of this experience doesn't make sense.

And then driving along a beach to watch the endless sea, boundless in time, space and charm brings me to the other end of the spectrum. To just watch the waves play their game, to dive into the sea, to have the wind crash against me or to just walk along the coastline has its own sense of peace. The roughness of the sand, the harshness of the salt hitting my eyes, the gasp for my breath when a wave overpowers me makes a beach experience what it is. Not to forget the sunrises and sunsets. And seastorms of course!

Sprinkle in good company, food, spirits and all that makes an experience complete, and voila!

Travel = a pure form of joy and bliss which is something nothing else can compensate for!

And the best part is that these become parts of our bigger journeys as well.

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The writer was my classmate and is currently teaching at a "prestigious" institution in the city. She loves to travel, photograph, write while sighing, planning and dreaming. A sooperly enthu and spontaneous child who enjoys her space and comfort zone ! You can read what she has to offer at http://babushka-myjourney.blogspot.com/

Someone ;)

Someone is totally restless.
Someone has her own language.
Someone likes to cook.
Someone likes to give everything and everyone a chance. Almost.
Someone 'hearts' Abhay Deol.
Someone loves to travel and loves planning them even more.
Someone is a hopeless romantic.
Someone likes to 'sigh'.
Someone knows how to make cocktails.
Someone knows how to party.
Someone is pwetty ;)
Someone is impulsive.
Someone has Dreams.
Someone is passionate.
Someone is feisty.
Someone is awesome.

Someone. I don't know who but Someone. :)

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The writer is a close friend living in Mumbai. A great traveling companion and an even better party host. A personal favorite drama queen. You can read his thoughts at http://basic-principles.blogspot.com/

Bollywood Dreams !

‘Aisa pehli baar hua hai

Satrah atrah salon mein

Undekha unjaana koi

Aane laga khayalon mein’

If you know what I am referring to you are undoubtedly a teenager from the 90’s! The stanza above is Simran’s first few lines in Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge(DDLJ). The poem goes on for almost 2 minutes where Simran describes her mystery boy who keeps her busy dreaming.I was 13 when DDLJ came out into the theatres. I loved the movie…watched it a couple of times in the theatre and I knew every dialogue by heart! And just like Mahi from Bachna Ae Haseeno, my little sis and I kept hoping we’d meet a Raj when we went to London for our vacation.

DDLJ is definitely the romantic movie of the 90’s. The SRK – Kajol magic, the serene landscape of Europe and Bollywood’s very own Punjab came together in this magnum opus to create history.

I remember a conversation with a friend once on why everyone in our generation wants to have a love story. He said we grew up watching DDLJ…not Deewar. After the melodramatic 70’s and the garish 80’s, the 90’s in Bollywood were all about the romance. To be precise I think the romantic wave started with the debut of the first Khan in 1988 with Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak and the next Khan with Maine Pyar Kiya.

We grew up believing that love had to happen. Bollywood made us believe that we could find love on a class picnic like in QSQT, at a wedding like in Hum Aapke Hain Kaun or maybe ‘this is not friendship…it is love’ like in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.

But none of this happened and we spent hours talking to our friends on why finding love is hard…I mean it is so easy in the movies. The truth is love doesn’t happen like in the movies…you will not find a cute Raghu Jetley (Dil Hain Ke Manta Nahin) if you are trying to run away from home. The chances are you will have some creepy looking man who will try to make conversation with you and you will try to continuously look through him…or act busy with your headphones.

I always thought that I’d find an Akash (Dil Chahta Hai) in my life. A guy, who is spontaneous, has no qualms making a fool of himself to just get your attention and is willing to ask for your love in front a bunch of random people!

Well, as you must have guessed I didn’t find an Akash. But I am not saying I didn’t find love. In fact it’s funny but I think I found love when I had stopped looking! I met him in college. He was the most unapproachable person in class and at times intimidating too. But somehow that never really got to me. I could talk to him for hours…and he’d listen to me hours. Friends around us had started seeing more happening between us than the two of us had…

And so finally one day we decided to start seeing each other. When we took that decision, there was nothing ta-da about the situation. It was simple, and it was real. There were times I’d hope something really filmy would happen…but it never did…The sound of his bike as he came home to pick me always made my heart race. Him singing English songs I had never heard before as he strummed his guitar made me smile. Not answering my calls as he had again forgotten that his cell was on the silent mode made me mad.

Somewhere all this and more made us fall in love and 3 years later we tied the knot.

I guess, the moral of the story is that love is not as complex and as dramatic as in the movies. It usually creeps up from behind quietly and hits you before you know it. Dreaming Bollywood dreams is not silly as long as you have an eye to catch signs of a simple and real love story coming your way!

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The writer is my ponjee's older sister, a marketing executive living in Bangalore with her husband. She's a complete idealist, optimist and believer. Loves the spas, traveling and Bollywood.

http://roller-coastering.blogspot.com/

Happy Quarterversary !

Terrible hair day. It annoys me. But knowing that I have an outlet makes me feel better.

Today you turn 3 months old. And I'm glad this is what it is. You have not only made me feel better but also let others think, opine and given them something to look forward to !

So,
Happy Quarterversary !

Thank you,
Friends and Family for reading, commenting, suggesting ! Most importantly loving.

To celebrate - Three of my favourite bloggers have written for Flying Without Wings. While one has spoken about the beauty and sigh-ness of traveling; another about Bollywood and the dreams of love; finally, lines about Someone (shy-ness) ! Thank you.

Let's hope this fire in me does not fizzle out and I want to and continue to write. Many Many !

Happy Reading child(s)

Bahaaron Phool

They are pretty. They are colourful. They are as good as getting rainbow hugs !

Most of us love the idea of giving or receiving flowers. The dressy ones or a pretty arrangement. Even the wild ones make us happy !

My one ponjee loves lilys. She would get one/few for herself and be excited all day. I, adore carnations. They are cute and seem so adorable. The pinks, whites, purple ! All of it.

Flowers at weddings - as a decorative piece or an accessory for the women; is gorgeous and such an integral part of our celebrations.

Flowers when you're ill, sad, happy, tired, bored - doesn't matter. It's still flowers. They could be bought and delivered personally or sent across seas. Way better than the "online ones."

When you arrive at the airport or when you leave for a land far away - flowers remind you of the pretty place you hold in someone's life !

It's the colour, texture and fragrance that gets us all excited and heart fluttery.

At the end of it all - it really is the thought that matters :)

It's not about Happy Endings !

I watched 500 Days of Summer a while ago. I then asked a ponjee to watch it who though of it as boring, slow and silly. Then. And still maintains that opinion.

A few weeks ago the boy with a new camera and Gandalf watched it. They said it was "sighness". I couldn't agree more. Then.

I watched it again yesterday. Something just didn't seem right. Somehow it didn't bring the same feelings as it did earlier. And then, I thought about it - a lot ! Well, it could be my cynicism or disillusionment coming to the forefront as I write what I think about the situation Summer and Hansen get themselves into. Or it could be how I've felt for a while !

It doesn't have to be about happy endings all the time. Agreed. It's most often about moving on. But moving on - away from what ? And moving towards what ?

Hansen hoped and prayed this would work. He was in "love". He though he was.

She let him into his world. So what ? We all do that ! He gave it his everything. Why ? It got messy eventually. It had to. He wanted it so badly and made himself believe that at some point she would feel the same way. But she didn't.

Summer told him "I'm not looking for anything serious." He knew. But he let himself "fall in love" with her. She always brushed aside any inclination towards "the talk" and that should have been his clue. But no ! We always let ourselves believe and see only what we know would give us comfort and peace of mind. Sleepy says "he had to take the plunge"; but really did he have to ?Summer didn't think love or relationships existed. So why then ?

Hoping, wishing and wanting is all fine - but at some point we have to learn to be practical. We have to learn to prevent ourselves from being wounded. Healing takes a while. We'll be healed - somehow or the other but it doesn't negate the fact that we were wounded at one point.

I also hold the opinion that "Love" is not impulsive. It's not an action. I'm not quite sure what it is. But I know it's not impulsive. She should have stopped him from falling in love with her. Somehow. She should have walked away once the signs came in. Early !

I appreciate Jamie Sullivan's request to Landon Carter to promise her "Not to fall in love with me".

But it's always easier said than done.

Shah Rukh Khans says "Dil ki khata bhi hai kya ? Usne kiya bhi hai kya ? Is dillagi ke siva, dil ko pataa bhi hai kya; Aashiq hai yeh chor nahi hai, Main kya karoon; Dil pe koi zor nahi hain main kya karoon !"

"How is it the heart's fault ? What has it done ? Besides loving, the hearts knows nothing; It's a lover and not a thief, What can I do; I have no control over it, What can I do !"

We tell ourselves that you won't let it happen. But Goddamn emotions. Our stoopidity only no.

Hansen tells Summer "you always do what you want to, don't you" - but don't we all ? Are we all not selfish in a lot of ways. It's our happiness and sanity hence, the use of defence mechanisms.

We've all been there, done that at some point to/with someone. It always comes around in a full circle.

I hope Hansen's "Autumn" didn't have to bear the brunt of it all !

The End of Our Era

I kept saying that It is The End of an ERA !

Somehow, it just does not seem right. Is it really all over ? What happened to us ?

It was about leaving cocooned safe nests to become part of a world we only knew through our history, geography, sociology and economics text books. It was about being by ourselves. Away ! Yet feeling so safe that we had each other. Didn't we ?

We stayed together and planned our dreams and high lofty aspirations while deciding between Aiwas and Popsies. We would be the cosy bunch at late night shows and not attend the first hour ! Wait at the island and decide between Kairali or Le Cafe.
Wait for the out of townies to show how "cool" our city is and save up as much monies as possible to go to the Indijoes buffet or Athena !

It was about laughing at each others stupidity and then randomly getting all silent and quiet. It was about yelling and screaming. Fighting and arguing. Doors being shut loudly. Discussions and lectures ! Long smses and cards (sometimes).

It was about surprises, chocolate cakes and flowers. No high levels of dipsoness but lot's of madness. And drama - oh yes ! We didn't know what hazey purple nights were ! But we know that "The Rising" is not an English movie. We also know that it's cold on the inner ring road because - ?! Well !

It was about the bike rides to God knows where at odd hours of the days/nights. About reunions. Gossiping about anything and everything.
About driving fast. Almost breaking doors. Buses with bed bugs and being treated by Dr.Mamta for something that now seems serious.

It was about giving missed calls. Chota recharge. The black nikon camera and sooper fatness. The typhoid and the accidents. The "proposals" and the break ups.

Through it all we survived and lived.

So yes ! This is the end of an era. It is about being grown up and more responsible. Earning our own monies and not crying that easily.

While some are forgiven and not forgotten; some are not forgiven and not forgotten and the rest well - it wasn't meant to be. I'm here ! Always. I never left. I won't. So, I'll be waiting. You have to return at some point. You will. You must ! This is about us and it always has been about us.

It is. It truly is. Sigh !

Season(s)

I wonder - which season would you like to be ?
For now, I know I'm one. But if you had to pick one forever ! Then which one ?

Would it be the summer ? The bright sun shiny days. Days of flip flops and sunny wear. Cottons and lot's of ice creams. Water lot's. Heat I know but at least it's not gloomy ! The flowers and trees in full bloom. Eating yummy khana no matter what. Traveling seems easier then. Not comfortable but easier. It Holi and Teej time. Its vacation from schools !

Winter is pretty too. Its cold. Its chilly. It pleasant but it can get gloomy. There is hail and snow. There is cuddling up and trying to get warm. There is/are hot khana(s) to help you get by and sitting out in the cafes. It can get annoying if it gets extremely cold - which then does not let you move around too much. It's Christmas and New Year time.

Monsoons make most of us sigh ! It makes us wonder. Sometimes, gets us to miss a lot gone by. Sometimes makes us want and desire. We curse when a vehicle goes into a puddle and splashes it all on us while walking or a major traffic jam due to water logging. We do not like the floods. Street food, they say, can get dicey during the monsoons. But it's very scenic and gorgeous. It can be a dangerous season too. It's a necessity for most !

I was a summer. I am a summer. Always have been. Ponjee said she would like to be an entire year ! She also thinks we should all wish to be an entire year.

And you ? If you had to pick and choose ? Tell !

10 Things I Hate About You !

My favourite - est dialogue from 10 Things I hate About You.

Kat comes to know about what Patrick has been upto; gets hurt; writes this for her English assignment.

I hate the way you talk to me

And the way you cut your hair.
I hate the way you drive my car.
I hate it when you stare.
I hate your big dumb combat boots
And the way you read my mind.
I hate you so much it makes me sick.
It even makes me rhyme.
I hate it...
I hate the way you're always right.
I hate it when you lie.
I hate it when you make me laugh;
Even worse when you make me cry.
I hate it when you're not around
And the fact that you didn't call,
But mostly I hate the way I don't hate you;
Not even close;
Not even a little bit;
Not even at all.

In the End !

This the final part of the super awesome Kerala trip, that we wished would never end.

We woke up to some awesome breakfast and hot coffee. Appams, chicken roast, chutney (which had mysterious ingredients). The plan to leave a bit early absolutely didn't happen. And by the time we convinced Sleepy that he really "really" had to get up, well !

Anyhow our next stop before K and I caught the train to B'lore was Fort Kochi. When I came to Fort Kochi a few years ago with my friends it was beautiful. The Dutch Fort and the Spice Market were really worth a visit. I had to take K there. So, while NRI(i) and Sleepy went to catch up with a long lost clique member; MSKG, K and I took off for an hour's journey in the Kerala auto towards Mattencherry. I slept till we got there.

Once we reached, we were almost sort of lost since we did not know how to ask for directions in Malayalam and finally a shopkeeper told us that the Jewish Synagogue, Spice Market and the Dutch Cemetery were closed. But we still walked towards them, hoping to get a glimpse just in time. Sadly, it wasn't meant to be.

We managed to walk in the Spice Market that obviously smelt strongly of only spices and go to a couple of stores. Bought some tea powder and a few masalas. Picked up traditional mundus for a frandship and the Uncle. Finally once Sleepy and NRI(i) returned with fellow Lit Christite, it was a walk in the rain and a reunion of sorts at a "wanna be" Goa cafe.

The sight of the Chinese fishing nets against the beautiful sunset was breath - taking ! NRI(i) managed to get a few good shots - thankfully !

Eventually there was a lot of anxiety surrounding His Dudeness' absence and lack of mobile battery. Hence, being totally un - reachable.

The worry increased when we realized that our bags are in that car. A pay phone call to Sleepy helped us breathe better. But Kochi city traffic got me stressed !

Sitting in the Innova listening to some of the clique's stories and trying to soak in the final few moments of being in Kerala was how we traveled to the train station.

The goodbyes and the hugs along with promises of meeting again at another exotic location.

This time our compartment did not, thankfully have strange Gult fellows. And, no ! I wasn't an exhibit.

It was legendary from the word go ! So much sighness and lot's of happy - ness.

With the risk of sounding clichéd - it was memorable and one of the best, by far.

Truly God's Own Country !

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Happy - ness II

Continuing -

Fish - Cooked in any form. By anybody. It does not leave the taste of meat (chicken, beef, pork and mutton) badly made. Fish fry is yummy. It is soothing. Does not take long to cook. And contrary to what many say, it does not stink ! I can give up many pleasures of life but this is difficult. Makes me happy no.

My books - I got into the habit of reading because my momma thought I would be an under achiever and never do well in school. It began with Enid Blyton and R.L Stein, The Babysitters' Club, Sweet Valley High and Archie Comics. Summer vacations included shopping for second hand books at CP and Jayanagar 4th block. I eventually went through a phase of Indian writers. Then moved on to Autobiographies. Now I read anything I can lay my hands on. Books like movies take me to a different world. I love how sometimes I feel the existence of an almost parallel universe !

Bollywood movies - The idea of hero and heroine being in love, fighting with the bad fellows, crying in the rains, dancing around trees or on top of mountains. The images of friends breaking up and eventually meeting after years, of big family feuds. The songs of the big fat Indian weddings, of "almost making out" in the gardens. Sigh ! I have been judged many times before for believing in something that truly is almost non existent. I have also been laughed at for adoring the characters and remembering the lyrics. But - that's just me ! Because it's not reality - it's more or less cathartic and it makes me forget my worries. For those few hours atleast. There is colour, music, dance, love, fights, hatred and everything. Masala is what it's aptly called !

Photography - Memories are yes encoded and stored in our minds. But having a copy of it, also, well - makes it better ! I love the funny ulta poolta types, the b & w pretty ones, those that say a lot just by the expressions of those in them ! I love family pictures and those of our pets. I like looking at pictures the following morning after a sooper fun evening. I enjoy being photographed too !

Weddings - I admire those who manage to take a tough and important call about wanting to spend the rest of their lives together. I love all that goes into planning and preparing for a wedding. I love being part of the happiest days of their lives. The traditions and customs that go into binding souls, lives and families together - are intriguing. The colours, tears of joy, madness and fun ! All of it makes me happy. My favourite part of every wedding is the standard ritual that involves only the bride and her father. It may be - walking down the aisle, the kanyadaan, the sitting on his lap while the groom ties the symbolic taali ( mangalsutra). I enjoy watching and observing people who are witnessing this beginning of a new journey. It amazes me how some people make the effort to fly across continents and seas to be part of this happy occasion. It maybe the quintessential big fat Indian wedding or the small Arya Samaj type ceremony (people have no choice but to take part in the ceremonies) - I love it all. With my friends and cousins - nearing the "marriageable age" I'm getting more excited; to be part of it all !

Dancing - I am a good dancer. I know. Dancing let's me be ! A little mental and a little crazy. Give me any song and I'll dance. For the longest time I wanted to be a choreographer. I actually thought I would I could have but I shrugged it off as a "childhood nonsense type ambition." The rhythm gets me moving and the jiggy wiggy is fun. Whether it is the Bollywood or Punjabi, Hip Hop or Salsa, Freestyle or Porki - all of it makes me happy. I also believe it's a great way to lose weight and have some fun while doing so. I love getting all pretty and dressed up, heels and no bag to carry. Just dancing. I can dance with or without a partner or company ! Conventionally or otherwise. Someday dancing in the middle of Brigrade Road shall happen.

Chocolates - The ingredients apparently gives you a high. Now that has never happened. But it's yummy. More tasty when it gets all messy and licking of fingers happen. Aphrodisiac ? Again, not so sure about that ! But it's a great way to beat one's hunger and get more pimples while putting on more weight. The hot chocolate fudge at Corner House and Nirula's (ONLY) makes me a happy child. The Lindt dark chocolate and my louve aunty's chocolate brownies can make me have some serious cravings issues ! The universal louve for chocolate is not overrated although much has been said and debated about it's medical implications - it's just much respected and almost revered. It plays a very important role in our lives from the time we are born till we go away. It has often been used as a token of reinforcement, conditioning for children and adults too ! With strawberries, as candies, for our baked goods and even in our beverages ! It's chocolate all the way !

Psychology - I have been associated with this subject for the last 7 years now - academically. But I feel we have had a connection for years. The study of the human psyche is not only scary but very interesting. It's amazing yet not surprising how most people you meet think that you have this ability to read their minds. This subject has taught me to be patient, observant, non judgmental, open. It has been my guiding force to leading a relatively sane life amidst a lot of "cacophony." It has helped me deal and survive. Most importantly it has given me a reason to believe in mankind (although I still remain cynical with respect to a lot going on). I can talk about psychology to anybody at anytime. I hope to teach it someday to a group of eager and knowledge hungry kids. I hope to also continue researching a few topics close to my heart. Till then - I'll have to be satisfied with my collection of general, abnormal, counselling, industrial psychology books !

Flying Without Wings - It's my space ! My zone. I vent and I write. I convey and I communicate. It has helped. It may have ruined. But it's what makes me happy !

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Happy - ness !

There was a bad time. It happens no ! Then came the colours and many many rainbow hugs. Hence, this list ! Things/People/Places that bring about much happy - ness.

In no particular order. Absolutely random.

Tanzi Banzi - Sista louve and very much my person !

Pink - it makes me feel pretty. It makes me feel special. It's soothing and it's girlie. From sarees to t shirts, clips, phones, nail paint, curtains, ink, bed sheets, shorts and skirts, lip gloss and ofcourse footwear.

Chinese food - It's almost comfort food. Not very heavy. Exciting in some sense. The durrty cheap ones or the truly authentic ones. It's awesome.

Shah Rukh Khan - He is a horrible actor but a great entertainer. He makes me want to believe in love. Always ! He makes me want to jump in joy and giggle till my cheeks hurt. He takes me to a unique almost unknown world. I almost lost all sense when I met him and he called me Sweetheart. He is my eternal. I adore him with my whole heart. I wish he would sing me to me once and dance around a tree, holding hands. Just once. For a few minutes !

Hugs - The "tight - missed you muchly" ; "I'll always protect you"; "the frandships"; "Oh we're so wasted and ur my soulmate"; "the morning ones"; "the sympathy"; "the yaani types"; "the you're my favourite" and my best pick - "the rainbow ones" ! It's a wonderful gesture and a great feeling.

Curls - It has character. It says something. It's pretty, cute and chic. You have a choice - to leave it as it is or straighten it out. But atleast you have a choice.

Sleeping - A great way to ward off boredom. To ignore the rest of the world. To let your unconscious take over. Being horizontal is fun and not at all tiring. A necessity and fun hobby.

Cooking - The ability to create magic out of simple ingredients. Feed friends and family. Receive appreciation or criticism. Bring about more yummy - ness in this world. Sheer bliss. When I'm sad or angry I tend to whip up the most amazing khana ever !

"Wrong" English - I'm not refined. I don't want to be. You can judge me and my ponjees ! But you don't have to deal with it if you don't want to. Keep shut and don't laugh at us. We're not asking you to speak that way. We don't need correction. "OO" instead of a "U" is fun. "Ness" is a great suffix. "Happening" should be used at the end of every sentence. There is just so much !

80's and 90's Hindi songs - I love how meaningful most of the songs are. The dances never crack me up. It was a great era. It was my era ! Growing up listening to them and watching the videos brings many happy memories.

to be continued...

Chop Cop ! Snip Snip !

Most of you know how random I can be ! Some of you also know that I can be pretty impulsive. The rest of you are aware of my constant need to have a haircut; especially when the mood is not so happy types !

As far as I can remember, I have never enjoyed growing my hair. Never. It's a pain and it causes me irritation. I like tying it up into a bun when it's hot. But while dancing or sleeping, Agggh !
I have have nice hair. Or atleast I used to before I go it straightened twice and coloured it red+purple - once ! But generally, I have nice hair. I also have a chubby face. So my puffy cheeks do not permit me to experiment a lot and drastically. But knowing me - puffy cheeks cannot stop me from going a little mental sometimes.

So, I know there's a wedding coming up. I know that if I have nice, long enough hair then some kind of styling can be done. I also know, that my curls are pretty and if let to themselves, can create magic teamed with the three natural dots and a pretty saree.
But, I refuse to allow nature take its course. I go and get a chop - chop ! Feel happy for the first one hour owing to the blow - drying. The ponjees would be hesitant and wouldn't want to burst my bubble. They know eventually I'll realize ! Which I do. By which time it's too late already. But I survive the ordeal. Let it grow and again back to square one after 2 months.

I once wanted to get a very very very short cut. Almost like a boy. I said goodbye to my curls and snip snip. But I really couldn't let go of those girly features and I stopped the hairdresser from creating a monster out of me. She was glad because she didn't know how to tell me - that just would not suit me. But I had a slight fringe to my right and it looked fine. Not like a boy but fine !

I always had a friend who would always make sure to accompany me to the stylist for my chop - snip sessions. She would read my mind as soon as I made a pleading expression regarding my hair. We also sort of had a bet that I wouldn't do anything to my hair till June, 2010.
But then in Delhi, I got myself one of the most high maintenance haircuts ever. Cute and pretty if you have straight hair and not living in a hot, humid city. But otherwise I strictly recommend it as a No No to most. That she liked and I did express my surprise. Thankfully the distance doesn't not let her stop me much now ! But the BBm might...hmmm!

I can be sitting in an auto absolutely bored and would think to myself - why not visit the parlour ! Maybe it's a comfort zone with the pampering and fussing around.
I would be going through pictures of friends on Facebook and think of getting something similar done.

Members of the opposite sex have told me that long hair looks nice on me or that they prefer girls with long hair, tied back into a bun or a ponytail. But then again, how often have I paid heed to that ? My mother would wish she could hypnotize me forever to prevent me from getting my hair cut. Alas, it seems like an almost impossible task.

My dream hairstyle is something that I might not be able to ever have. Till then, I will continue to experiment, get impulsive, go a little crazy and not listen to anyone ! And if you ask me - I think curly hair is the way to go. It has character and it's pretty on most girls !

Thekaddy

We were sad. Almost. To be leaving the serenity of the backwaters of Kerala. But, there was more waiting for us. And calibration was the word of the day !
As we drove towards our next destination - Thekaddy; we were amidst complete greenery ! Paddy fields and tea plantations. Pine cone types and coconut trees as well.
The uphill journey got some of us a little MS-fied. But it was a beautiful drive nonetheless.
His dudeness aptly put the experience as "it's difficult to capture some fun and crazy moments with a camera!" True that.

After an ice cream break and being all touristy at a pwetty waterfall, we reached Thekaddy and decided to fill ourselves with the amazing Beef Fry and Beer combo before going for an animal sighting boat trip.
Keralites are known for making the best and most exquisite Beef Fry. It has to have the right combination of coconut, curry leaves and their "secret masala". While our Mallus graciously decided to do our bookings - we gorged on plates of Pork chilly, Seer Fish fry and Beef Fry. The heaven - ness, again is difficult to put into words.

His dudeness had an amazing plan in mind for the Thekaddy leg of our Kerala holiday. It began with Us, in fatty orange lifejackets in a boat on the Periyar lake managing to see the sambar deers, kingfisher birdies, bisons, wild dogs, foxes and the beautiful sunset ! It will be rather difficult to erase the trauma MSKG went through shooing away a monkey who wanted a taste of our home - made chocolates. But we hope he'll survive !

We got to our "hotel" which was basically a large open field with many many "cute" bamboo cottages. Each cottage had a name and 2 single beds, attached bathrooms and no fan ! The weather again didn't play spoil sport to the plan, so far. A beautiful and almost "compact" tree house was located near our cottages. We were warned that unfortunately it wasn't big enough to accommodate all of us. We didn't even try !
We then took off for a 3 hour "night nature trail." I was sooper scared ! Darkness freaks me out. K promised to be my best friend for that duration of time and had my back. We were given leech socks, a raincoat and a torch.
It began.
The chills I got ! But it was one of the most thrilling experiences of my life. The leech that managed to get to me will probably be burning in hell now. As creepy as it was then, in retrospect they actually aren't such horrible creatures. Almost harmless because apparently they suck out the bad blood and just die eventually. Anyhow, we managed to see a herd of deer crossing a small water body, the footprints of a bear and elephant and many many big big trees ! And we walked and walked and trekked and trekked. Except for a light drizzle - thankfully the rain God "blessed" us with no heavy downpour.
Getting the leeches off from your body, socks and shoes is a long drawn process; but it is necessary and the forest officers are there to help.
We got back to a very yummy and hot meal of - sambar, garlic rasam, rice, papad, beef fry, fish curry, chicken curry and thoran.

Following this - it was time we sat on our Flinstones seating arrangement and do the puttings. While I tried to give some gyaan on the types of schizophrenia, Sleepy not only got lazy to pee but also learned the Malayalam version of "That's right !" After that - there was no stopping him.
MSKG decided to retire early to bed while His Dudeness wished he had a recorder to record a few funny lines by me ! After a very very short walk, a few gangsta poses, promises of getting up early enough and watching music videos - Day Two ended as the sun was about to rise. The usual anyway !

to be continued...

The Backwaters

While sitting in Delhi, a few of us decided that we must try and organize a trip to one of the southern tips of India - Kerala. Seemed like an obvious choice since a few of us are sort of settled there itself. So having decided that, we took off on deciding how and when to get there as well as what is it that we would like to do and see.

Prior to that, I gave K a shot of a typical out of townie Bengaluru experience. From happy hours to dosas to a hazey purple evening - We did it all with my ponjees who were thrilled to finally meet him.

The train journey couldn't have been more "exciting" ! Considering how I look and the fact that I was a lady - it wasn't surprising that the "tribal Gults" kept staring at me as though I was an exotic creature. As K put it - "now we're in an exhibition." Also, please note K wondered why was it that they weren't wearing animal skins and carrying their spears ! How I figured they were Gults is without any help from K who thought that by entending a finger they would grab his hands. Freaked me out till we finally reached our destination Ernakulum.

As we stepped out of the station - the air felt different and the weather - well ! It was beautiful. After a quick Mallu dosa and vada experience, we were received by Sleepy with his new white BB, His dudeness very excited to be our guide and NRI(i) whom K and I were meeting for the first time.
On our way to the airport to pick up the MSKG (who was going through a clothes crisis with them being stolen by the dhobi in the tamland ! Pah ! ) we showed K the variety of colourful houses and many many jewellery showrooms in and around Kochi city. Once we all crammed ourselves into the big Innova we were off to Kumarakom where our houseboat for the day awaited us !

Once we reached the houseboat and got ourselves settled we just sat, almost speechless. It was beautiful and breathtaking. It was pretty and amazing. The calmness of the water with the lush greenery just got us all to Sigh. A lot and pretty often.

I am unable to describe what it looked like and how it actually felt. Really ! So this entry might not seem the right way to understand what the real Kerala experience might seem like !

Lunch was a typical Kerala affair with the rice, sambar, thoran, papad and of course The Karimeen (fried fish) that we devoured not only because of the sooper hunger pangs but also because it was awesomely yummy.
It rained "partially" and it was pretty (again). Thankfully these rains didn't play spoilsport and let us just be. Over coffee, r&c, fried banana we talked about shakiras, schools, work, music, Kerala among many other things ! NRI(i) couldn't believe how cheap in terms of dollars the houseboat expenses came up to !

After a delicious dinner of rice, chemeen curry (prawns), chicken curry and dal; while His dudeness did a handwriting analysis of what NRI(i) and K had written; I was doing my psychoanalysis bit as well. Sleepy very creatively decided to name it "psychography"
As MSKG kept bringing up toilet humor at very point in almost every conversation, Sleepy was enjoying himself using the DSLR. Because K was sooper thrilled and extremely relaxed, I was glad and well I heart Kerala and all that it has to offer.

Finally we all retired to our bedrooms and slept peacefully hoping to wake up early enough to see the sunrise. Well, we knew that wouldn't be possible ! But yes the following morning the backwaters seemed even more beautiful and calm and the hot kappi and idlis awaits us.

to be continued...

Happy Wappy Burrdday !

I am a hyper child. I love getting excited !
It's my thing. Peeps love to have me around because - well :)
So it's no surprise that birthdays make me happy. It could be yours. Mine obviously ! I love thinking about them. Planning them. I love wishing. I love sending and receiving gifts. I love the birthday parties.

As a child I always had birthday parties at home. Queen Mother would cook many and return gifts would be planned way in advance. I would keep all my gifts in a room separately and rip the covering as soon as the last guest left ! I loved having theme parties. I enjoyed making invites and distributing them in school.
I also attended parties at fast food joints where big Ronald McDonald or the Birdie would come and jiggy wiggy with us ! We would dress up in pretty clothes and play musical chairs or just be very silly !

As we got older some of us progressed to sleepover parties. PJs we would be in and stay up all night giggling and talking; eventually gossiping ! Some of us would take our closest friends out for lunch/dinner or a movie. Some of us would have an uncle - aunty party at home and get many monies for being a cute and well mannered child. Some of us would have to visit a holy shrine and get Almighty's blessings.

We would also wear"coloured" clothes to school. Distribute chocolates/sweets. Get wished by all. Sometimes, even stand in front of everyone at the school assembly. Attention would be on you ! I have this vague memory of being accompanied by a friend as I went to each classroom to hand out a chocolate to every teacher.

We got older. Again. Ideas surrounding birthdays changed. All of a sudden being wished at 12 midnight was the thing to do ! Some of us liked to be asleep and not disturbed. Some of us warned everyone that it would be almost impossible to answer calls then. Some of us thought of a brighter idea and had pre birthday day celebrations so that at the unearthly hour your peeps are right there with you anyway :)
A pre happy birthday day is a fun day. It's a day when you get to sit and think about all that has happened. All that you would like to do the next day. All that you would like to achieve and "figure out" by the next birthday !
We also have birthday lists. It's best that this list is shared with all. The birthday frandship then gets only that which was asked for. Remember, "always stick to the list."
Some of us go shopping and pick up clothes and shoes and other essentials for the happy birthday day.

Some of us plan our birthdays 2 months in advance. Some of us have 4 day birthday celebrations. Some of us have a week long post birthday celebrations.

Some of us have celebrated most of our birthdays traveling. Some of us have been subjected to horrible birthday bumps and kicks. For those staying in PGs, hostels - it's a crazy time because there all hell breaks loose. Your frandships, batchmates, classmates will get hold of anything and throw it at you, break it on your head or make you eat it ! But you will also get your revenge.
Some of us send and receive couriers. Flowers. Birthday cards.

Surprise birthday celebrations are always fun especially if it's actually a surprise. The shock and happiness expressed by the celebratee is what makes the surprise planners happy - it worked !

Some of us don't care that much and don't like doing much during happy wappy burrdday. Somehow I don't get them. That's where I come into focus !

Some of us think party hats and coloured paper are important. Some of us love getting our own cake. Some of us want that day to be about them only and their fun-ness !

Some of us are ready to exchange all that we possess for beef fry. While, some of us will want to have many many rounds of colourful drinks. Some of us have always had rainy birthdays. While, some of us, have traditions every birthday !

With Facebook being the center of our lives, we now get reminders and wish people; whether we care or not. We now change our display picture with of the celebratee and you. We tag them in our status messages and make them feel extra special. We also add cool hearts for some !

The excitement surrounding birthdays will never end for me. I love them. Muchly types.

I wish you all many many happy burrddays. I pray that the chocolate cakes never end. I hope that you get lot's of presents and you enjoy them to the fullest. I wish that all your dreams come true. I want the fun, laughter, madness, craziness and dipsoness to never end !

Hey Jude !

My peeps and I are not exactly in the Happy Child Syndrome zone as of now. Somehow, this song describes exactly why, what and how !
There will be laughter, music, giggles and colors again. Soon ! Because sometimes, there are fairy tales ;-)

Hey Jude - The Beatles

Hey Jude, don't make it bad
Take a sad song and make it better
Remember to let her into your heart
Then you can start to make it better

Hey Jude, don't be afraid
You were made to go out and get her
The minute you let her under your skin
Then you begin to make it better

And anytime you feel the pain, hey Jude, refrain
Don't carry the world upon your shoulders
For well you know that it's a fool who plays it cool
By making his world a little colder
Na na na, na na, na na na na

Hey Jude, don't let me down
You have found her, now go and get her
Remember to let her into your heart
Then you can start to make it better

So let it out and let it in, hey Jude, begin
You're waiting for someone to perform with
And don't you know that it's just you? Hey Jude, you'll do
The movement you need is on your shoulder
Na na na, na na, na na na na, yeah

Hey Jude, don't make it bad
Take a sad song and make it better
Remember to let her under your skin
Then you begin to make it better
Better, better, better, better, better, oh!

Na na na, na-na na na
Na-na na na, hey Jude
Na na na, na-na na na
Na-na na na, hey Jude

Na na na, na-na na na
Na-na na na, hey Jude
Na na na, na-na na na
Na-na na na, hey Jude

Na na na, na-na na na
Na-na na na, hey Jude
Na na na, na-na na na
Na-na na na, hey Jude

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