1. The Foreign correspondent (1940)
This is a masterpiece from Hitchcok. Its a story of a reporter (Jones aka Havestock) sent from New york to cover from London the pre-war events in 1939-1940. Jones discovered a German conspiracy of hijacking the peace process initiated by some umbrella organization.quite a thriller. 8 points out of 10.
2. Blue Max (1966)
A first world war movie showing the class diference between the German Army. The story of a fighter pilot who burning from an extreme desire of proving his superiority over his co-pilots. Ursula (Bond girl Dr. No) also features in this flick. 8 points out of 10.
3. In the valley of Elah (2007)
This movie is an offshoot from the American Imperial war against Iraq. Charlize Theron looks as pretty as she can. Tommy Lee Jones was as superb as ever. He along with Theron investigates the mysterious death of his soldier son. 7 points out of 10.
4. Quantum Of Solace (2008)
Quite a sighter. The story takes another step after Casino Royale. Bond makes mockery of an International conspiracy yet again. 6 points out of 10.
5. Aaj Tak news channel(26-29 Nov 2008)
I want to condemn this channel in strongest possible words. At around 9:30 AM on 27th Nov, the news reader ridiculed the sacrifice of Mumbai police officials by saying something like "Yeh kal tak terrorists ka encounter karte the, aj inka encounter ho gaya". I and Saugata were literally shocked by hearing these words from a popular news channel. Aaj Tak what a pathetic waste. Anyways This is the way India treats her heroes without any exception whatsoever.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Saturday, November 29, 2008
And how can a man die better than facing fearful odds for the ashes of his fathers, for the temples of his Gods and for the people of his country
India is yet again attacked by the terrorists and many precious lives belonging to many classes and many nationalities have been lost. This terror attack has killed people from almost every section of society from petty dweller to rich millionaire and this is quite a proof that this is not a attack on one section or mere one city but on the very concept of India. Mumbai is saved by the only remaining hope of India i.e. Indian defence forces (NSG, Navy, Army and Police) but not without giving supreme sacrifices of her great soldiers. Freedom does not come free, freedom comes with a price.
Today, when i saw the cremation of ATS chief Mr. Karkare an NSG Major Sandeep, i was overwhelmed the ironical mixture of Patriotism and Shame. One can not dare to define Patriotism, one can only experience it and attacks like these only unite people instead of dividing them. I dont see any "Marathi Manoos" or Tamil or Bihari in this action, i have seen only Indians, fighting hard to save their fellow countrymen. This is called patriotism and now who can dare to say Mumbai belongs to Marathi Manoos only. Every inch of India belongs to her citizens and no petty politician can deny it. Lets all Indians come together in this time of test in form of a peace rally throughout the India filling each street, each house with nothing but glorious Tricolor and Indians. This is a time to show all Indians that we were one nationality before, we are one nationality now and we will remain one nationality forever, Insha Allah.
I am ashamed too and because of only one reason, what the fuck i am doing for my country except paying taxes. Will this remain the product of my existence? Some will say that i am excited because this is different time. But i will quote "It is the best of times and it is the worst of the times". best of times because its a rare opportunity to show our unity to our fellow countrymen and worst of times because we have lost many precious lives.
Indian politicians, the rare breed of "humans" only care about their respective vote banks. Our Honourable home minister Mr. Shivraaj Patil can only change his dress while our "Prime Minister in waiting" Mr. L. K. Adwani can only curse the government. Its a great tragedy that India is in her lowest ebb of weakness when her Prime Minister belongs to the greatest class of her sons, the great Sikhs. Mr. Prime Minister, you are what a shame!
May the soul of every victim should find some peace now. We are highly successful in converting our "Promised land" from the cradle of civilization to the "dying civilization". Congratulations fellow Indians for this great achievement.
Today, when i saw the cremation of ATS chief Mr. Karkare an NSG Major Sandeep, i was overwhelmed the ironical mixture of Patriotism and Shame. One can not dare to define Patriotism, one can only experience it and attacks like these only unite people instead of dividing them. I dont see any "Marathi Manoos" or Tamil or Bihari in this action, i have seen only Indians, fighting hard to save their fellow countrymen. This is called patriotism and now who can dare to say Mumbai belongs to Marathi Manoos only. Every inch of India belongs to her citizens and no petty politician can deny it. Lets all Indians come together in this time of test in form of a peace rally throughout the India filling each street, each house with nothing but glorious Tricolor and Indians. This is a time to show all Indians that we were one nationality before, we are one nationality now and we will remain one nationality forever, Insha Allah.
I am ashamed too and because of only one reason, what the fuck i am doing for my country except paying taxes. Will this remain the product of my existence? Some will say that i am excited because this is different time. But i will quote "It is the best of times and it is the worst of the times". best of times because its a rare opportunity to show our unity to our fellow countrymen and worst of times because we have lost many precious lives.
Indian politicians, the rare breed of "humans" only care about their respective vote banks. Our Honourable home minister Mr. Shivraaj Patil can only change his dress while our "Prime Minister in waiting" Mr. L. K. Adwani can only curse the government. Its a great tragedy that India is in her lowest ebb of weakness when her Prime Minister belongs to the greatest class of her sons, the great Sikhs. Mr. Prime Minister, you are what a shame!
May the soul of every victim should find some peace now. We are highly successful in converting our "Promised land" from the cradle of civilization to the "dying civilization". Congratulations fellow Indians for this great achievement.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Book Review [9] : The Discovery of India
My hands are shivering and i am running high on temperature so this post may lack some thing in it. Apologies for that.
'The Discovery of India' was written by Pundit Nehru in Ahmednagar fort jail in 1942-1945. This book is simply superb and it talks about the history of the common man during the entire age of our civilization. This book is not a story of kings but of philosophers, saints and prophets of India. I have read innumerable books on history, this book is in different league altogether. A must read for any person wants to know about India. In his own words "India is a myth and an idea, a dream and a vision and yet very real and present and pervasive". I have been reading this book for quite some time and i am feeling really very solemn after finishing it. I got yet another book from Aviral. This is " Sanskrit ke chaar Adhyay" by Ramdhaari Singh Dinkar, the legendary writer of Rashmirathi. The foreword is written by Pundit Nehru ;). Over to you Sir.
Highly Recommended (9/10)
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Weekly Review 15-22 November
Well, this week i say many movies as always and i just finished day's movie no. 4. These are as follows:
1. Michael Collins (1995)
This movie is the biography of great Irish freedom fighter Michael Collins. This guy led the Irishmen to virtually their independence from England. The glorious days of Irish Revolution (1916-1922) started with Easter Rising in 1916 (from the Martyrdom of great James Connolly) and culminated into the free Ireland state in 1922. Michael Collins suffered a lot from the then President of Irish party Eamon de Valera. Valera betrayed Michael Collins and instigate the civil war against the Collin's treaty with England. This ultimate results in the assassination of Michael Collins. Ireland and India share a lot in terms of history. Both were mutilated by Britishers before giving independence (Northern Ireland and Pakistan), both fathers of the nation Michael Collins and Bapu were assassinated by their own people and both the flags i.e. Irish and Indian contain the same colors (Green , Saffron and White). The role of Collins is played by Liam Neesaon (the same guy has played the famous role of Oscar schindler in Schindler's list). I like this movie as well as the other one "The wind that shakes the barley" on Irish war theme equally. 9 points out of 10.
2. Dance with wolves (1990)
A great movie depicting almost a true picture of native Indians of North America. The film contains beautiful scenes. Kevin Costner and Mary Mcdonnel (she is also playing President Roslin in Battle Star Galactica ;) have done a tremendous job. Its a story of the clash between the so called civilised society (the whites) and so called barbaric society (the Indians). A must watch in any case. This film has won 7 Oscars. 9 points out of 10.
3. The Charge of the light Brigade (1968)
Its actually an anti-war movie and it describes the pitiful condition of the officers serving under the arrogant and shirking Generals. Well this movie contains a lot of abuses for Indians like us. It covers the Crimean war fought in Balkan against the Russians aggression in Balkan region. 7 points out of 10.
4. Arn Templeriddaren (2007)
Its the most expensive Scanvandian movie ever made. Its a story about a Swedish noble who was accused of a forbidden love and was forced to serve as a Knight Templar in the Holy Land during the era of the Crusade (12th century). Indian model cum actor Milind Soman is playing Sallahaddin in this movie. This movie is quite inferior of the Orlando Bloom's Kingdom of heaven. 6 points out of 10.
5. To end all wars (2001)
Its a story of the allied POWs captured by Japan after the fall of Singapore in 1942. These prisoners were forced to build the railway track in Thailand so that Japan could attack India. To be honest this movie is no way comparable to "The bridge on river Kwai". 5 points out of 10.
6. Dasvidaniya (2008)
I was expecting a better show from Rajat kapoor and Vinay Pathak. This movie is a let down. Its a hotchpotch of comedy and tragedy. No idea where to laugh and where to frack. 4 points out of 10.
Well guys, i have to leave as i have a book to read. Dasvidaniya ;)
1. Michael Collins (1995)
This movie is the biography of great Irish freedom fighter Michael Collins. This guy led the Irishmen to virtually their independence from England. The glorious days of Irish Revolution (1916-1922) started with Easter Rising in 1916 (from the Martyrdom of great James Connolly) and culminated into the free Ireland state in 1922. Michael Collins suffered a lot from the then President of Irish party Eamon de Valera. Valera betrayed Michael Collins and instigate the civil war against the Collin's treaty with England. This ultimate results in the assassination of Michael Collins. Ireland and India share a lot in terms of history. Both were mutilated by Britishers before giving independence (Northern Ireland and Pakistan), both fathers of the nation Michael Collins and Bapu were assassinated by their own people and both the flags i.e. Irish and Indian contain the same colors (Green , Saffron and White). The role of Collins is played by Liam Neesaon (the same guy has played the famous role of Oscar schindler in Schindler's list). I like this movie as well as the other one "The wind that shakes the barley" on Irish war theme equally. 9 points out of 10.
2. Dance with wolves (1990)
A great movie depicting almost a true picture of native Indians of North America. The film contains beautiful scenes. Kevin Costner and Mary Mcdonnel (she is also playing President Roslin in Battle Star Galactica ;) have done a tremendous job. Its a story of the clash between the so called civilised society (the whites) and so called barbaric society (the Indians). A must watch in any case. This film has won 7 Oscars. 9 points out of 10.
3. The Charge of the light Brigade (1968)
Its actually an anti-war movie and it describes the pitiful condition of the officers serving under the arrogant and shirking Generals. Well this movie contains a lot of abuses for Indians like us. It covers the Crimean war fought in Balkan against the Russians aggression in Balkan region. 7 points out of 10.
4. Arn Templeriddaren (2007)
Its the most expensive Scanvandian movie ever made. Its a story about a Swedish noble who was accused of a forbidden love and was forced to serve as a Knight Templar in the Holy Land during the era of the Crusade (12th century). Indian model cum actor Milind Soman is playing Sallahaddin in this movie. This movie is quite inferior of the Orlando Bloom's Kingdom of heaven. 6 points out of 10.
5. To end all wars (2001)
Its a story of the allied POWs captured by Japan after the fall of Singapore in 1942. These prisoners were forced to build the railway track in Thailand so that Japan could attack India. To be honest this movie is no way comparable to "The bridge on river Kwai". 5 points out of 10.
6. Dasvidaniya (2008)
I was expecting a better show from Rajat kapoor and Vinay Pathak. This movie is a let down. Its a hotchpotch of comedy and tragedy. No idea where to laugh and where to frack. 4 points out of 10.
Well guys, i have to leave as i have a book to read. Dasvidaniya ;)
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Sink the Bismarck and Prisoners of the mountains
Hope you enjoy the mid week reviews ;)
1. Sink the Bismarck (1960)
This movie is a black and white movie based on successful attempts of Royal Navy's to seek and destroy the famous German battleship Bismarck( based on the name of "The Man of blood and iron" Otto Von Bismarck aka father of the first German Reich) in 2nd world war. Quite a good flick and it possess rare naval fight. 7 points out of 10.
2. Prisoner of the mountains (1996)
Its a Russian movie and it depicts the escapades of two Russian soldiers captured in an ambush by the Chechnya rebels. in Caucasus region. Its based on much older story by Leo Tolstoy. 3 points out of 10.
FYI i am reading Discovery of India. A must read anyways. Adieu till i write again.
1. Sink the Bismarck (1960)
This movie is a black and white movie based on successful attempts of Royal Navy's to seek and destroy the famous German battleship Bismarck( based on the name of "The Man of blood and iron" Otto Von Bismarck aka father of the first German Reich) in 2nd world war. Quite a good flick and it possess rare naval fight. 7 points out of 10.
2. Prisoner of the mountains (1996)
Its a Russian movie and it depicts the escapades of two Russian soldiers captured in an ambush by the Chechnya rebels. in Caucasus region. Its based on much older story by Leo Tolstoy. 3 points out of 10.
FYI i am reading Discovery of India. A must read anyways. Adieu till i write again.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Movie reviews this week
Well, here i am again with this week films. I am quite developing an addiction for war movies. so here we go:
1. Victory aka Escape to victory (1981)
This is quite an amazing movie inspired by the true story of soccer matches played between Nazi Germany and occupied eastern Europe basically Ukraine in 2nd Great war. Quite an amazing match between the German National Football Team and Allied prisoners of war lead by cool "Michael Caine" and supported by great Pele and Stallone. This movie is simply superb. Worth watching. 9 points out of 10.
2. Crimson Tide (1995)
Very impressive film by Denzel Washington and Gene Hackman. Its quite a way to prevent a nuclear Holocaust. I like the one liner from Hackman "We preserve democracy, we don't practice it". Denzel Washington stages a mutiny against his commanding officer (Hackman) in order to make sure that the order to strike Russia are same or changed. 8 out of 10 points.
3. 12' O Clock High (1949)
I became a fan of Gregory Peck after watching "The guns of Navarone" almost a month back. This movie is about inspiring a depleted US Air force division fighting in Europe in mid of second World War. This movie is about developing leadership qualities and finding the maximum effort of a person. 6 points out of 10.
4. Battleground (1949)
Another movie inspired from the great battle of Bulge in DEC 1944. I am not quite impressed by this movie to be very honest. 4 out of 10 points.
5. Fashion (2008)
I love Priyanka in the movie. She looked absolute stunning in the movie. Movie is full of trash and without any substance. I will give 4 points (for Piggy Chops) out of 10.
6. Thirteen Days (2000)
This movie is about Cuban missile crisis in October 1962 and depicts the thirteen days of utter crisis and also shows the chasm between the democratic leaders and the Military of USA. JFK, his bro and Kenny looked phenomenal. Quite a good movie to educate oneself about the ugly days of Cold war. 8 out of 10 points.
7. Lion of the Desert (1981)
Its story about the Libyan freedom movement against the Fascist regime of Italy 1920's. Movie renders the story of a teacher turned freedom movement leader Omar Mukhtar (played by Anthony Quin). I have also seen another movie "The message" directed by the same director Moustapha Akkad and acted in lead role by Anthony Quin and was quite impressed. This movie although quite realistic but some how misses the magic. Overall i will give 6 points out of 10.
8. Saints and Soldiers (2004)
Another movie inspired by the Malmedy massacre in the Battle of the Bulge (1944). Although the plot was very good the movie is not magical. 4 out of 10 points.
1. Victory aka Escape to victory (1981)
This is quite an amazing movie inspired by the true story of soccer matches played between Nazi Germany and occupied eastern Europe basically Ukraine in 2nd Great war. Quite an amazing match between the German National Football Team and Allied prisoners of war lead by cool "Michael Caine" and supported by great Pele and Stallone. This movie is simply superb. Worth watching. 9 points out of 10.
2. Crimson Tide (1995)
Very impressive film by Denzel Washington and Gene Hackman. Its quite a way to prevent a nuclear Holocaust. I like the one liner from Hackman "We preserve democracy, we don't practice it". Denzel Washington stages a mutiny against his commanding officer (Hackman) in order to make sure that the order to strike Russia are same or changed. 8 out of 10 points.
3. 12' O Clock High (1949)
I became a fan of Gregory Peck after watching "The guns of Navarone" almost a month back. This movie is about inspiring a depleted US Air force division fighting in Europe in mid of second World War. This movie is about developing leadership qualities and finding the maximum effort of a person. 6 points out of 10.
4. Battleground (1949)
Another movie inspired from the great battle of Bulge in DEC 1944. I am not quite impressed by this movie to be very honest. 4 out of 10 points.
5. Fashion (2008)
I love Priyanka in the movie. She looked absolute stunning in the movie. Movie is full of trash and without any substance. I will give 4 points (for Piggy Chops) out of 10.
6. Thirteen Days (2000)
This movie is about Cuban missile crisis in October 1962 and depicts the thirteen days of utter crisis and also shows the chasm between the democratic leaders and the Military of USA. JFK, his bro and Kenny looked phenomenal. Quite a good movie to educate oneself about the ugly days of Cold war. 8 out of 10 points.
7. Lion of the Desert (1981)
Its story about the Libyan freedom movement against the Fascist regime of Italy 1920's. Movie renders the story of a teacher turned freedom movement leader Omar Mukhtar (played by Anthony Quin). I have also seen another movie "The message" directed by the same director Moustapha Akkad and acted in lead role by Anthony Quin and was quite impressed. This movie although quite realistic but some how misses the magic. Overall i will give 6 points out of 10.
8. Saints and Soldiers (2004)
Another movie inspired by the Malmedy massacre in the Battle of the Bulge (1944). Although the plot was very good the movie is not magical. 4 out of 10 points.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Tour de India (My Education tour diary Dec 2003): From Madurai to Trivendrum via Kanyakumari: Part 2
7th December 2003
We reached Kanya Kumari, the southern most tip of main land Indian. I am sitting at Vivekanand Rock memorial and i am watching the grand sangam of three big seas, The Bay of Bengal, The Arabian Sea and the great Indian Ocean. I again pledge to serve my country till my last breathe. I am currently sitting in front of Vivekanand Rock memorial. I have no words to describe the beauty of this place. The great Indian ocean is washing the feet of our beloved Bharat Mata. I am looking at the vastness of this ocean, no length no limit. Near Rock memorial there is a statue of Tamil Nadu's great son. A great sight that too. Vivekanand memorial was completed on 2nd sept 1970. In the night we visited the photo gallery of Shri Eknath Ji (the person behind the Rock memorial). We have seen the sunset but it was not so great due to clouds. In Kanyakumari we were staying in Vevekananda Kendra and the name of our section was "Kashi". Some body shouted that Laxman and Ganguly were going great after early hiccups in India's first inning against the Aussies in Brisbrane. We saw the sunset but it was not very clear because of the clouds. Our stay at Kanyakumari was one of the best and great moments of my life. I found a great man in Shobhit in Kanyakumari and the great friendship starts now.
8th December 2003
Morning 3:45 AM., we took a train to Trivendrum (not too far from Kanyakumari around 80 miles) . It has been a nice journey so far. We missed the opportunity to watch the sun rise at Cape due to very busy an tight itenary. We have got our hotel in Rajdhani Tourists. It was a quite good hotel. We read in news paper about the fabulous century of Sourav Ganguly at Brisbrane. Manu Awasthi helped me a lot to arrange a tour bus for VSSC at Thumba at 1000 INR compared to the costly arrangement made by SNP at 1800 INR (The legend of Phantom and Mummy was already established on 6th december). Eveybody cheered me :). VSSC is a holy place for a scientist. The magneto equator line passes through this place. A great work by the great son of India, Vikram Sarabhai. We visited the first office of VSSC (established in a Church) now converted into a museum. We asked many questions and all were answered convincingly. I copied down many lines from the great men there.
" We must be second to none in the application of advanced technologies to the real problem of man and the society" --- V S (1919-1971)
In the evening we enjoyed the beautiful Koalum beach. Shobhit and Ranjan were ecstatic and so was i. we played with the waves of of the sea. I found a good company in Shobhit and Ranjan. We dined at hotel Suprabhandhan and then we drank the "Choc Sarjah". Some how we (Shobhit and I) were gulping that but that SOB Sarvagya soon discovered that what the frack Sarjah was ;) and the news spread to the entire group about the great taste of Sarjah. So Fubu led the entire team in having that bloody Sarjah and all end's up with the big "Kelas". Some body was smiling. Santosh and Divyalok ran from the railway platform to the shop in order to have the Kela :). It was indeed one of the most funny moments of our tour.
We reached Kanya Kumari, the southern most tip of main land Indian. I am sitting at Vivekanand Rock memorial and i am watching the grand sangam of three big seas, The Bay of Bengal, The Arabian Sea and the great Indian Ocean. I again pledge to serve my country till my last breathe. I am currently sitting in front of Vivekanand Rock memorial. I have no words to describe the beauty of this place. The great Indian ocean is washing the feet of our beloved Bharat Mata. I am looking at the vastness of this ocean, no length no limit. Near Rock memorial there is a statue of Tamil Nadu's great son. A great sight that too. Vivekanand memorial was completed on 2nd sept 1970. In the night we visited the photo gallery of Shri Eknath Ji (the person behind the Rock memorial). We have seen the sunset but it was not so great due to clouds. In Kanyakumari we were staying in Vevekananda Kendra and the name of our section was "Kashi". Some body shouted that Laxman and Ganguly were going great after early hiccups in India's first inning against the Aussies in Brisbrane. We saw the sunset but it was not very clear because of the clouds. Our stay at Kanyakumari was one of the best and great moments of my life. I found a great man in Shobhit in Kanyakumari and the great friendship starts now.
8th December 2003
Morning 3:45 AM., we took a train to Trivendrum (not too far from Kanyakumari around 80 miles) . It has been a nice journey so far. We missed the opportunity to watch the sun rise at Cape due to very busy an tight itenary. We have got our hotel in Rajdhani Tourists. It was a quite good hotel. We read in news paper about the fabulous century of Sourav Ganguly at Brisbrane. Manu Awasthi helped me a lot to arrange a tour bus for VSSC at Thumba at 1000 INR compared to the costly arrangement made by SNP at 1800 INR (The legend of Phantom and Mummy was already established on 6th december). Eveybody cheered me :). VSSC is a holy place for a scientist. The magneto equator line passes through this place. A great work by the great son of India, Vikram Sarabhai. We visited the first office of VSSC (established in a Church) now converted into a museum. We asked many questions and all were answered convincingly. I copied down many lines from the great men there.
" We must be second to none in the application of advanced technologies to the real problem of man and the society" --- V S (1919-1971)
In the evening we enjoyed the beautiful Koalum beach. Shobhit and Ranjan were ecstatic and so was i. we played with the waves of of the sea. I found a good company in Shobhit and Ranjan. We dined at hotel Suprabhandhan and then we drank the "Choc Sarjah". Some how we (Shobhit and I) were gulping that but that SOB Sarvagya soon discovered that what the frack Sarjah was ;) and the news spread to the entire group about the great taste of Sarjah. So Fubu led the entire team in having that bloody Sarjah and all end's up with the big "Kelas". Some body was smiling. Santosh and Divyalok ran from the railway platform to the shop in order to have the Kela :). It was indeed one of the most funny moments of our tour.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Losing my religion, i dare not
To be honest, i don't know what is common between Sourav Ganguly and me. If some body criticizes him, i defend him a way like i am defending myself and this has been the case since 2003. Sourav you taught me a lot and its a sheer agony to live in without your sheer timing. Its been an honour and a priviledge to follow your career from 1996 to 2008. I hoped that you will play atleast a year or so but you as always surprised me.
My hero worship of Sourav started when he played a heroic knock against Pakistan in Dhaka, 1998 when India chased down successfully a massive total and this was the begining of almost a decade of hero worshipping. I dont know why i am not able to write this article. My hands are trembling and so are my head. I promise to myself that i will never make a sportsperson my hero because they retire and leave behind themselves tears and sweet memories. I can not imagine what will happen to me when i see Sachin retiring from the game. They say the game is greater than the players, for me Sachin and Sourav along with Kumble, Dravid and Laxman are far greater than the game. This entire generation almost 10 years older than us almost enthralled us when we were teens and now when we are grown up adults they are chucking us out. This is certainly a bad phase of our age. Just like we can not re-live our teen age, they can not live their game back.
I dont want to lose my religion from the polytheism of Ganguly, Sachin, Kumble, Dravid and Laxman to the polytheism of Sehwag, Dhoni, Yuvraj, Zaheer, Harbhajan, Gambhir and Ishant. I will not be a convert and will rather stop practising the religion of 'cricket' when all my gods will retire.
I faintly remember the days when Australia used to thrash India regularly and India only used to win home matches and Kumble, Sachin were the lone wariors. And then came a fighter, a constructor and an artist (Sourav, Dravid and Laxman) and everything changed. We started winning matches abroad regularly and with the re-inforcements like Yuvraj, Sehwag, Zaheer and Harbhajan we became one of the top three teams in the world. And now these stalwarts are retiring one by one. Kumble gone, Ganguly gone and some time the rest three will also ago. Their memories will remain for ever and i will cherish those for ever. Thank you Sourav. You will remain my hero. Good luck Dhoni, i admire you a lot but sorry to say i wont convert to your religion.
My hero worship of Sourav started when he played a heroic knock against Pakistan in Dhaka, 1998 when India chased down successfully a massive total and this was the begining of almost a decade of hero worshipping. I dont know why i am not able to write this article. My hands are trembling and so are my head. I promise to myself that i will never make a sportsperson my hero because they retire and leave behind themselves tears and sweet memories. I can not imagine what will happen to me when i see Sachin retiring from the game. They say the game is greater than the players, for me Sachin and Sourav along with Kumble, Dravid and Laxman are far greater than the game. This entire generation almost 10 years older than us almost enthralled us when we were teens and now when we are grown up adults they are chucking us out. This is certainly a bad phase of our age. Just like we can not re-live our teen age, they can not live their game back.
I dont want to lose my religion from the polytheism of Ganguly, Sachin, Kumble, Dravid and Laxman to the polytheism of Sehwag, Dhoni, Yuvraj, Zaheer, Harbhajan, Gambhir and Ishant. I will not be a convert and will rather stop practising the religion of 'cricket' when all my gods will retire.
I faintly remember the days when Australia used to thrash India regularly and India only used to win home matches and Kumble, Sachin were the lone wariors. And then came a fighter, a constructor and an artist (Sourav, Dravid and Laxman) and everything changed. We started winning matches abroad regularly and with the re-inforcements like Yuvraj, Sehwag, Zaheer and Harbhajan we became one of the top three teams in the world. And now these stalwarts are retiring one by one. Kumble gone, Ganguly gone and some time the rest three will also ago. Their memories will remain for ever and i will cherish those for ever. Thank you Sourav. You will remain my hero. Good luck Dhoni, i admire you a lot but sorry to say i wont convert to your religion.
Tourde India (My Education tour diary Dec 2003): From Varanasi to Madurai via Chennai: Part 1
Taken directly without any shame from my own diary without any editing written during the Tour Dec 2003.
December 3, 2003
we are starting our journey to Chennai by Ganga-Kaveri Express 6040. All the guys are very excited and they hope a lot to learn from me since i am their Educational tour co-ordinator.
December 4, 2003
We are in the train. Some guys are sleeping while same are playing cards. This train is very good and so its pantry car. I am reading a book by Jai Shankar Prasad (bought with Shobhit at Allahabad station). I am very emotional at this moment.We have a visit next day in Chennai.
December 5, 2003
This day is very great day.In the morning we reached Chennai. The Police is very strict and efficient. There is very tight security probably because of coming 6th Dec. We have a very boring visit at Ashok Nagar Allied Electronics. The instructor explained us about Antennas and Robots.
The company was very small and the company owner was very witty specially to Vineet. After this we visited Marina Beach. I was very surprised and i had no words to appreciate the beauty of Bay of Bengal touching Chennai.
Chennai is a very neat city. Buses are easily available, roads are very good. Police is very helpful. After the beach we had dinner and we (Shobhit and me) had to east Veg Biryani and Idli Shambhar. We are in very midst of South India. We started for Kodaikanal in Chennai-Madurai 2637 express. In the train i am very upset. I had a very heated discussion with Deepak Goel on the issue of our tour. I always win but i was very shocked at the behaviour of Deepak Goel. Bye Bye Chennai. By Bye Marina Beach. Its a very nice night in the train. Divya Alok is helping us in solving the Kodaikanal road problem.
6th December 2003
Today we are suffering in Chennai-Egmore Express. Nitin Goel wakes me at 04:40 AM and i awake all the other guys. We are about to reach Kodai Kanal road at about 5:35 A. We got the bus to KodaiKanal Hill station at 6:00 AM. The bus is very cheap 24/. Another conflict with Deepak Goel on the issue of bus fare. I slanged him. Then we have a very excited journey to Kodaikanal. We have a bus puncture at Battalkundu. We read in "Hindu" about the achievement of Indian cricket team in Australia (India tour of Australia 2003-04) in the first Test. Zaheer picked 5 wkts in first inning. We reached the Kodaikanal hill station at 10 AM. We got a bus by bargaining a lot. A great contribution from Vineet, Shobhit and Deepak Goel. Finally we got the bus 3200/.
Kodaikanal is a very great hill station some how a bit overy hyped. I missed my girl friend (although completely imaginary) but i enjoyed greatly with my friends. We have a very heated discussion with Travel agency guy. I was very angry and so were Vineet, Deepak, Pankaj and Shobhit. Finally we got the result. We got the bus for Madurai. The bus journey was full of excitement. We enjoyed every vulgar song. We reached Madurai at 8:00 PM and we quickly fired us to see the famous Meenakshi temple. It was very great sight. The temple was singing the glory of great Indian civilisation, Indian culture and world heritage. I again took a pledge for protection of my country. The same pledge was taken by me at Marina beach, Chennai.
Currently i am waiting in waiting room and all the other guts are doing BC.
signing off. The next part will see us all in Kanyakumari.
December 3, 2003
we are starting our journey to Chennai by Ganga-Kaveri Express 6040. All the guys are very excited and they hope a lot to learn from me since i am their Educational tour co-ordinator.
December 4, 2003
We are in the train. Some guys are sleeping while same are playing cards. This train is very good and so its pantry car. I am reading a book by Jai Shankar Prasad (bought with Shobhit at Allahabad station). I am very emotional at this moment.We have a visit next day in Chennai.
December 5, 2003
This day is very great day.In the morning we reached Chennai. The Police is very strict and efficient. There is very tight security probably because of coming 6th Dec. We have a very boring visit at Ashok Nagar Allied Electronics. The instructor explained us about Antennas and Robots.
The company was very small and the company owner was very witty specially to Vineet. After this we visited Marina Beach. I was very surprised and i had no words to appreciate the beauty of Bay of Bengal touching Chennai.
Chennai is a very neat city. Buses are easily available, roads are very good. Police is very helpful. After the beach we had dinner and we (Shobhit and me) had to east Veg Biryani and Idli Shambhar. We are in very midst of South India. We started for Kodaikanal in Chennai-Madurai 2637 express. In the train i am very upset. I had a very heated discussion with Deepak Goel on the issue of our tour. I always win but i was very shocked at the behaviour of Deepak Goel. Bye Bye Chennai. By Bye Marina Beach. Its a very nice night in the train. Divya Alok is helping us in solving the Kodaikanal road problem.
6th December 2003
Today we are suffering in Chennai-Egmore Express. Nitin Goel wakes me at 04:40 AM and i awake all the other guys. We are about to reach Kodai Kanal road at about 5:35 A. We got the bus to KodaiKanal Hill station at 6:00 AM. The bus is very cheap 24/. Another conflict with Deepak Goel on the issue of bus fare. I slanged him. Then we have a very excited journey to Kodaikanal. We have a bus puncture at Battalkundu. We read in "Hindu" about the achievement of Indian cricket team in Australia (India tour of Australia 2003-04) in the first Test. Zaheer picked 5 wkts in first inning. We reached the Kodaikanal hill station at 10 AM. We got a bus by bargaining a lot. A great contribution from Vineet, Shobhit and Deepak Goel. Finally we got the bus 3200/.
Kodaikanal is a very great hill station some how a bit overy hyped. I missed my girl friend (although completely imaginary) but i enjoyed greatly with my friends. We have a very heated discussion with Travel agency guy. I was very angry and so were Vineet, Deepak, Pankaj and Shobhit. Finally we got the result. We got the bus for Madurai. The bus journey was full of excitement. We enjoyed every vulgar song. We reached Madurai at 8:00 PM and we quickly fired us to see the famous Meenakshi temple. It was very great sight. The temple was singing the glory of great Indian civilisation, Indian culture and world heritage. I again took a pledge for protection of my country. The same pledge was taken by me at Marina beach, Chennai.
Currently i am waiting in waiting room and all the other guts are doing BC.
signing off. The next part will see us all in Kanyakumari.
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Few Yugoslavian movies
Well, another week is over without giving much at least to me. This week another series of movies and my topic of cover was the former country of Yugoslavia, the tinder box of the world. So here we go:
1. Underground (1995)
This movie is one of the very few movies that exposes the realm of ideologies. Based on the story of two communist friends in Belgrade and their adventures from 1941 to 1992. It shows the immense dark side of a man. Some times you will feel bore but have some patience to watch this movies. Quoting from the movie "No text, my darling has any truth in it. The truth exists only in reality". So better watch this movie. 7 out of 10 points.
2. Lepa Sela Lepo Gore aka Pretty Village Pretty Plame (1996)
This movie tells a story about the Bosnian conflict between Serbs, Croats and Muslims. Its a story of two friends (a Muslim and a Serb) as well as the story of Bosnia and Serbia. Must watch movie atleast for an Indian. 8 out of 10 points.
3. All the President's Men (1976)
I am a big fan of this movie. Based on the true story of two journalist from Washington Post and their investigation of "Water Gate Scandal". President Nixon had to resign. Woodstein rules. 9 out of 10 points.
4. Gallipoli (1981)
Its based on the famous battle of Gallipoli in 1915, English against the Turks. This battle is the main reason behind the rise of the Australian and New Zealand Nationalism. They call it the legend of ANZACS (Australia New Zealand Armed Corps). A true nationalist feeling can only be experienced when you see the dead bodies of your soldiers fighting your enemies. Australia and New Zealand experienced the same in 1915. They laid their lives when Britishers were drinking tea at the sea shores. 8 out of 10 points.
My hero played his last inning and unfortunately he scored a 'zero' :). Thank you Ganguly for providing me those glorious times and some how its hard to believe that my hero worship is going to an end :(.
1. Underground (1995)
This movie is one of the very few movies that exposes the realm of ideologies. Based on the story of two communist friends in Belgrade and their adventures from 1941 to 1992. It shows the immense dark side of a man. Some times you will feel bore but have some patience to watch this movies. Quoting from the movie "No text, my darling has any truth in it. The truth exists only in reality". So better watch this movie. 7 out of 10 points.
2. Lepa Sela Lepo Gore aka Pretty Village Pretty Plame (1996)
This movie tells a story about the Bosnian conflict between Serbs, Croats and Muslims. Its a story of two friends (a Muslim and a Serb) as well as the story of Bosnia and Serbia. Must watch movie atleast for an Indian. 8 out of 10 points.
3. All the President's Men (1976)
I am a big fan of this movie. Based on the true story of two journalist from Washington Post and their investigation of "Water Gate Scandal". President Nixon had to resign. Woodstein rules. 9 out of 10 points.
4. Gallipoli (1981)
Its based on the famous battle of Gallipoli in 1915, English against the Turks. This battle is the main reason behind the rise of the Australian and New Zealand Nationalism. They call it the legend of ANZACS (Australia New Zealand Armed Corps). A true nationalist feeling can only be experienced when you see the dead bodies of your soldiers fighting your enemies. Australia and New Zealand experienced the same in 1915. They laid their lives when Britishers were drinking tea at the sea shores. 8 out of 10 points.
My hero played his last inning and unfortunately he scored a 'zero' :). Thank you Ganguly for providing me those glorious times and some how its hard to believe that my hero worship is going to an end :(.
Monday, November 03, 2008
India's favourite son retires
And one of the finest ambassador of world's cricket has retired. The person who never got any commendable praise from the great spinners in his hey days (Bedi, Qadir etc ) but he was destined to surpass all these mortal creatures by going in books as the greatest of them. Anil Kumble certainly rules.
I noticed him first time in 1993 when i was just a kid but the way he demolished the all powerful English Team in 1993 was really a gem (The English team was full of great players like Getting, Gooch, Hick etc ). I became a fan of his when he destroyed the mighty West Indies at Eden Gardens in 1993, the final of Hero Cup by taking 6 wkts of 12 runs. Till date its the best ODI figures for any Indian bowler. He never looked back after that match and became the Match winner for India since then. He was the triumph card of India specially under Mohammad Azharuddin. When ever we wanted to take wickets bowl was thrown to Kumble, whenever we wanted to curb the run rate bowl was thrown to Kumble. We cursed ICC so much why they have restricted number of overs per bowler in ODI. The downfall of Kumble started as soon as the new millennium arrived. His performance in the 2nd half of his career has certainly not been world class. There are many factors for this mainly the arrival of new energetic pace attack in Zaheer, Nehra etc and evolution of Harbhajan Singh. People started criticizing him that he only takes the lower order wickets and he is a poor fielder but he went on giving his performances (althought not that regular) be it bowling against West Indies in 2002 when his entire face and head was covered with white bands or be it against the mighty Australians in 2003-04 when we were so close to win the series or be it against Pakistan last year or be against his maiden Test century against the English last year at Oval or his handling of the Indian team in the hyper politicised tour of Australia last year. He certainly ruled the world.
Let me enumerate his memorable performances that i have enjoyed most
1. Perfect 10 against the Pakistan in 1999 at Kotla, New Delhi. This was the most difficult world record and this record can never be broken.
2. 12 wickets in the farewell match of Steven Waugh at Sydney, 2003. India just missed the golden opportunity to win her maiden Test series down under.
3. 13 wickets against Australia at Chennai in 2004. India again missed to level the series this time because of the rain.
4. 6 for 12 against the WI at Eden Gardens in 1993. This was the most memorable performance i ODI.
5. 4 for 25 against the South Africans at Wankhede in 1996, the final of Titan cup.
The legacy of Anil Kumble now lies with Harbhajan and others. Its difficult to fill the gap of this giant but as they say time is the greatest healer and so be it. He will be remembered as the one of the finest Indian cricketers in the same league as Gavaskar, Tendulkar, Kapil Dev and most probably Rahul Dravid.
I noticed him first time in 1993 when i was just a kid but the way he demolished the all powerful English Team in 1993 was really a gem (The English team was full of great players like Getting, Gooch, Hick etc ). I became a fan of his when he destroyed the mighty West Indies at Eden Gardens in 1993, the final of Hero Cup by taking 6 wkts of 12 runs. Till date its the best ODI figures for any Indian bowler. He never looked back after that match and became the Match winner for India since then. He was the triumph card of India specially under Mohammad Azharuddin. When ever we wanted to take wickets bowl was thrown to Kumble, whenever we wanted to curb the run rate bowl was thrown to Kumble. We cursed ICC so much why they have restricted number of overs per bowler in ODI. The downfall of Kumble started as soon as the new millennium arrived. His performance in the 2nd half of his career has certainly not been world class. There are many factors for this mainly the arrival of new energetic pace attack in Zaheer, Nehra etc and evolution of Harbhajan Singh. People started criticizing him that he only takes the lower order wickets and he is a poor fielder but he went on giving his performances (althought not that regular) be it bowling against West Indies in 2002 when his entire face and head was covered with white bands or be it against the mighty Australians in 2003-04 when we were so close to win the series or be it against Pakistan last year or be against his maiden Test century against the English last year at Oval or his handling of the Indian team in the hyper politicised tour of Australia last year. He certainly ruled the world.
Let me enumerate his memorable performances that i have enjoyed most
1. Perfect 10 against the Pakistan in 1999 at Kotla, New Delhi. This was the most difficult world record and this record can never be broken.
2. 12 wickets in the farewell match of Steven Waugh at Sydney, 2003. India just missed the golden opportunity to win her maiden Test series down under.
3. 13 wickets against Australia at Chennai in 2004. India again missed to level the series this time because of the rain.
4. 6 for 12 against the WI at Eden Gardens in 1993. This was the most memorable performance i ODI.
5. 4 for 25 against the South Africans at Wankhede in 1996, the final of Titan cup.
The legacy of Anil Kumble now lies with Harbhajan and others. Its difficult to fill the gap of this giant but as they say time is the greatest healer and so be it. He will be remembered as the one of the finest Indian cricketers in the same league as Gavaskar, Tendulkar, Kapil Dev and most probably Rahul Dravid.
Sunday, November 02, 2008
This week round up
This week has been quite an enthralling week for me as it had Diwali in it. I stayed in Bangalore only and celebrated with my bro and Saugi/Aviral in quite a non Diwali way (cracker and light less). Saw three quite elegant movies this week and as usual these are written below:
1. The motorcycle diaries aka Diarios de motocicleta (2004)
Based on the memoirs of Che Guevara, a bigger than life figure of 20th century. This movie describes his experience of tour de Latin America. Its a against the sin of modesty but i can empathize with Che Guevara fully and i can draw a very interesting parallel. When Che saw the ruins of Incas empire in Peru then he was completely astonished and commented in a very beautiful words "The people who could build this (the magnificent ruins of Peru) had been completely wiped out by Spaniards to build the replica of Spanish colonies in Peru". I experienced the similar sort of feeling when i travelled across the length of India (certainly not the width as we missed the entire eastern part of India and Gujarat/Rajasthan) as a part of Education tour of my college. This tour taught me a lot and i remember quite completely my words with my batch mate Ravi Bhushan sitting in the magnificent campus of Meenakshi Temple, Madurai "What a glorious civilisation ours is and what we are doing to be worthy of her". Worth watching for any adventure loving person. 9 out of 10.
2. The battle of the Bulge (1965)
A movie based on the famous battle of Bulge in the last years of World war 2. A clever German plan to catch Allied powers off the guard. I don't remember any movie based entirely on the all Tank battle. Quite a memorable one. 7 out of 10.
Signing off
1. The motorcycle diaries aka Diarios de motocicleta (2004)
Based on the memoirs of Che Guevara, a bigger than life figure of 20th century. This movie describes his experience of tour de Latin America. Its a against the sin of modesty but i can empathize with Che Guevara fully and i can draw a very interesting parallel. When Che saw the ruins of Incas empire in Peru then he was completely astonished and commented in a very beautiful words "The people who could build this (the magnificent ruins of Peru) had been completely wiped out by Spaniards to build the replica of Spanish colonies in Peru". I experienced the similar sort of feeling when i travelled across the length of India (certainly not the width as we missed the entire eastern part of India and Gujarat/Rajasthan) as a part of Education tour of my college. This tour taught me a lot and i remember quite completely my words with my batch mate Ravi Bhushan sitting in the magnificent campus of Meenakshi Temple, Madurai "What a glorious civilisation ours is and what we are doing to be worthy of her". Worth watching for any adventure loving person. 9 out of 10.
2. The battle of the Bulge (1965)
A movie based on the famous battle of Bulge in the last years of World war 2. A clever German plan to catch Allied powers off the guard. I don't remember any movie based entirely on the all Tank battle. Quite a memorable one. 7 out of 10.
Signing off
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