Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Tamil Ghajini Vs Hindi Ghajini.

I feel I am writing after a long time!!!!!!!!!

I saw Ghajini in Hindi last Saturday, 27 Dec 2008. Incidentally Ghajini (T) was my first movie with my would-be wife after engagement in 2005. We watched Ghajini (H) as a happily married couple... :)

I read few reviews of Ghajini (H) and all of them compared with original Ghajini (T). I suppose we cannot resist a comparison of remake with original.

The remake Ghajini (H) is same as Ghajini (T), scene by scene but a little better in terms of colour and technology. I feel Aamir Khan has portrayed a better lead character as Short Term Memory Loss patient. Surya was good but he was more kind of mechanical in finding Ghajini. I guess Surya did not emote well as Short Term Memory Loss patient whereas Aamir scores high in bringing out emotions. Aamir shows so much depth in the character which he must have improvised from the original.

Asin is bubbly and chubby. She dons the role with ease only we thought she was nervous in the intro song. But as the character progresses she was in terms with the character. AR Rahman has once again scored good music which lingers through your ears all day. It is NOT surprising to see that the Ghajini (H) songs are making waves in South India too!!!!!

In today's cinema world it is difficult to give one blockbuster hit but A.R. Murugadoss has given 2 blockbuster hits for the same movie Ghajini. It shows the power of plot and script that he has written. He thoroughly deserves kudos for his efforts! Bravo Murugadoss.

My rating for this movie is 3 stars out of 5.

Rating Details:
***** - Classic & Outstanding.
**** - Must Watch. Don't Miss!
*** - Good Movie. Watch it.
** - Watch it only if you really want to.
* - Not worth your money.

Friday, December 05, 2008

Indians.....

எக்ஸ்க்ளுசிவ்:

இந்த பதிவு யாரையோ கிண்டல் செய்ய வேண்டும், நக்கல் செய்ய வேண்டும் என்ற எண்ணத்தில் நையாண்டி நோக்கில் எழுதப்படவில்லை. நடப்பதை கண்டு வலியிலும், கோபத்திலும் எழுதியது.

தீவிரவாதி 1: நாம பனிரெண்டு பேர அனுப்பி, இருநூறு மக்களை கொன்னுருக்கோம். ஆனா இந்திய அரசு, தீவிரவாதிகளுடனான போரில் வெற்றி, சதி முறியடிப்பு பேசிக்கிறாங்களே?

தீவிரவாதி 2: அதான் எனக்கும் புரியல. டிபன் பாக்ஸ்ல குண்டு வச்சோம். ஒரு மாசத்துல மறந்திட்டாங்க. சைக்கிள்ள குண்டு வச்சோம். ரெண்டு மாசத்துல மறந்திட்டாங்க. என்ன பண்ணினாலும் அதிகபட்சம் மூணு மாசத்துல மறந்திடுறாங்க.

தீவிரவாதி 1: அதனால தான் இந்த தடவை, ஏழை, நடுத்தர மக்களை விட்டுட்டு, இந்திய அரசு அக்கறை எடுத்துக்கிற மேல்தட்டு மக்களை தாக்குனோம்.

தீவிரவாதி 2: அதுக்கும் எந்த விதமான பிரயோஜனம் இருக்குற மாதிரி இல்ல. நாம நடத்தின தாக்குதல வச்சி அரசியல்வாதிங்க இப்பவே அவனுங்களுக்காக ஒட்டு பொறுக்க ஆரம்பிச்சிட்டாங்க.

தீவிரவாதி 1: எனக்கென்னமோ, ஒரு நல்ல விஷயம் நடக்குற மாதிரி இருக்குது.

தீவிரவாதி 2: என்ன?

தீவிரவாதி 1: ஏதோ, தகவல் பரிமாறிக்கணும்'ன்னு நம்ம பாகிஸ்தான் ஐ.எஸ்.ஐ. தலைவர கூப்பிட்டு இருக்காங்க. போயிட்டு வந்ததும், அவர்கிட்ட என்ன ஏதுன்னு ட்டுட்டு அடுத்த முறை அதுக்கு ஏத்த மாதிரி பிளான் பண்ணனும். மாட்டிக்க கூடாது.

தீவிரவாதி 2: மாட்டினாலும் பிரச்சனை இல்லை. ஏன்னு சொல்லு?

தீவிரவாதி 1 (யோசித்துவிட்டு): கருணை மனு போட்டுட்டு வெளிய வந்திடலாம். அதானே? சரியா?

தீவிரவாதி 2: ஆமாம். ஆமாம். அதே மாதிரி, அடுத்த முறை இந்தியாவுல கொஞ்சம் ஆளுங்கள நமக்காக ஏற்பாடு பண்ணினா போதும்.

தீவிரவாதி 1: ஏன்?

தீவிரவாதி 2: நமக்காக வேல பார்க்க, நிறைய டிவி சானல்கள் இருக்காங்க. நம்மளோட சாட்டிலைட் போன் மூலமா, பேச மட்டும்தான் முடியுது. ஆனா, அவுங்க நமக்காக லைவ் டெலிகாஸ்ட்'யே பண்றாங்க. அது மட்டும் இல்லாம, கமாண்டர்ஸ் கிட்ட பேசி என்ன பிளான்னு கேட்டும் சொல்றாங்க. ரொம்ப யூஸ்புல்லா இருக்கு.

தீவிரவாதி 1: கரெக்ட். அடுத்து எங்க டார்கெட் பண்ணலாம்? சவுத் இந்தியாவுல பண்ணிரலாமா? சென்னை எப்படி?

தீவிரவாதி 2: அங்க வேண்டாம்.

தீவிரவாதி 1: ஏன்?

தீவிரவாதி 2: நாம கஷ்டப்பட்டு குண்டு வைப்போம். ஆனா அங்க இருக்குற அரசியல்வாதிகள் குண்டு வச்சது யாருன்னு அவுங்களுக்குள்ள அடிச்சிக்குவாங்க. ஆளுங்கட்சி, எதிர்கட்சியை சொல்லுவாங்க. எதிர்க்கட்சி, ஆளுங்கட்சியை சொல்லுவாங்க. கடைசில நம்மள மறந்திடுவாங்க.

தீவிரவாதி 1: ஒ!

தீவிரவாதி 2: அதுமட்டும் இல்ல. டிவிக்காரங்களும், இந்த அளவுக்கு உதவுவாங்கன்னு சொல்ல முடியாது. அவுங்கவுங்க கட்சிகாரங்களையும், சினிமாகாரங்களையும் பேட்டி கண்டுட்டு இருப்பாங்க.

தீவிரவாதி 1: இப்பதான் ஒரு தாக்குதல் பண்ணிருக்கோம். அதுக்குள்ளே இன்னொன்னு பண்ண முடியுமா? முன்னெச்சரிக்கை நடவடிக்கைகள் பல எடுத்திருப்பாங்களே?

தீவிரவாதி 2: கடல் வழியா வந்தோம்னு எல்லா துறைமுகத்திலையும் பாதுகாப்பு அதிகரிச்சிருக்காங்களாம். ஹோட்டல்'ல தாக்குதல் பண்ணிருக்கோம்னு எல்லா ஹோட்டல்'லையும் பாதுகாப்ப அதிகரிக்க சொல்லி இருக்காங்களாம். இவனுங்க எப்பவும் இப்படித்தான். கோவில அடிச்சா கோவிலுக்கு பாதுகாப்பு. மார்க்கெட்ட அடிச்சா மார்க்கெட்டுக்கு பாதுகாப்பு. தியேட்டர அடிச்சா தியேட்டர்களுக்கு பாதுகாப்பு. நாம என்ன அடிச்ச எடத்தையா இருப்பி அடிப்போம்?

தீவிரவாதி 1: அதானே? ஆனாலும் எனக்கு வர வர வன்முறை மேல நம்பிக்கையே போயிடுச்சி.

தீவிரவாதி 2: ஏன்?

தீவிரவாதி 1: எவ்ளோ அடிச்சாலும் தாங்குறாங்க.இந்தியா ரொம்ம்ம்பபபப நல்ல நாடுப்பா...
அவனுங்களே வெறுத்து சோர்ந்து தீவிரவாதத்தை விட்டாதான் உண்டு. _._

Wednesday, December 03, 2008

Top Ten Movies - My favourites

I wanted to list out the my top ten commercial movies of all time..... I tried to order in particular number position but it's tough... they are all my favourites.



The Shawshank Redemption





The Godfather I & II







Pulp Fiction








Black Hawk Down







Memento








Goodfellas








Scarface








The Good, Bad and Ugly







A Few Good Men.






The Italian Job.

Monday, December 01, 2008

Review of 'Vaaranam Aayiram' - Tamil Movie.

We watched the movie last Saturday, 28 Nov 2008 at PVR. The first and foremost before writing a full review will be... Surya is phenomenal... he is brilliant, outstanding on the two characters as father and son. Surya is one gem of an actor who I hope will follow the foot steps of the great Kamal Hassan.

The film shows the 4 phases of Surya's life and there is a portion of Surya' as father. If you put altogether imagine the length of the movie.... it is well over 2 and half hours. It is a well crafted movie and it is one of the best for Gautam Menon and Surya. For Surya this movie will be an icon in his career.

We (myself n my wife) loved the character of young Surya, the adolescent Surya. He had completely transformed to look like a school boy studying in +2. The hair style and the facial expressions are brilliant. The next phase of his life is after his college life he meets his love Sameera Reddy and my god... she is gorgeous. She has an addictive smile... an inquisitive smile on her face which makes her attractive. The young Surya woos her finally after a struggle but fate his own things written over their love.

The next phase of Surya's life is onto drugs after he loses Sameera in a bomb blast. The look is considerably changed from a lovable Surya to rowdy look Surya. He gets out of drugs after an ordeal with gangsters, saving a child. The next phase which is shown as the current phase, as a major in Indian Army. In this character Surya is stout and portrays as army man. The characterisation and the look are perfect.

As you can see there are 4-5 dimension for Surya or 6 looks for Surya, you seem to think the movie runs fast and due to this I feel the depth is lacking. The movie is suppose to be a relationship between a father and son instead the movie goes where the son Surya goes. It's basically son Surya's life. Surya says he draws inspiration from his father at every point of time but that bonding, inspiration is not seen in the movie. The father Surya is very subtle all along the movie, one would expect as a responsible father his son studies well and settle well in life but in this movie he encourages his son to do things which most fathers' will resist. I guess it's the style of urban or metropolitan culture.

The music is peppy and all the songs are a hit. In order to match the music on screenplay the background, sets and location needs to be taken care of, I mean it will be additional work effort for the Director and the cameraman involved to bring the hit song in the movie. The cameraman work is also doubled due to Surya's double role.. one as old age father and a young son. In an interview Gautam Menon told he wanted this movie to be a musical treat. So, there is lot of things happening for one movie and in this essential plot is missed, the relationship between a father and son. If you see the movie 'Thavamai Thavmirundhu' you can feel the emotion from the characters of that movie the bonding between father and his sons - which I feel the emotion quotient is missing in Vaaranam Aayiram.

We also discussed that it is an epic movie and if the Director had used 4 or 5 different cameraman for each phase the visual treat would have been different. Ratnavelu, the cameraman has tried his best for this movie to take it to the next level whenever son Surya goes to next level but falls flat.

On a final note I would give 2.5 stars out of 5. Go watch it for Surya!!!!!

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Mumbai Under Siege - Terror.

Mumbai city is under siege by terrorists from late last night 26 Nov 2008. This time the attack is direct, there is no bombs exploding at crowded market places. The attack is done at the prominent and posh hotels of Mumbai, The Taj, Oberoi and Trident and at a hospital.

There is no sign of incidents where I live Kandivali (East) which is about 30-35 kms from the Gateway of India. The life is normal here with auto-richshaws and people going about the usual business. It's like we are insulated from the events that is currently happening on the other part of the city. Strange!!!!!

We had to know the news as everybody else, from the breaking news of news channels. Mumbai is shut for today, people are advised to stay indoors.

Here is the complete news updated today on the net.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

Global Economic Crisis.

The Global economic crisis of 2008 has started to affect all living in this earth. On the macro level several countries in Europe are in recession, USA industries are fighting to survive, Japan in recession, layoffs and jobcuts are happening in all industries. The forecast is gloomy and likely to remain until 1st quarter of 2009. Singapore, Korea, Taiwan exports has been affected largely due to the economic slowdown. China is also facing the heat now as exports has slowed down. Here is the full story.

The ripple effect is seen in the shipping industry. The freight rates ex Asia to Europe/USA is steadily falling down due to mismatch of demand and supply. The supply is more and the demand has fallen down considerably ex Asia.

On the brighter side IT companies of India are eyeing to cash in on this crisis. They are on look out for acquisitions of European companies. They could get better deal and close in fast on acquisition when there is a recession in the buying country.

Wednesday, November 05, 2008

Gautam Gambhir ban appeal rejected.

Gambhir's appeal for one test match is rejected by the ICC. Here is the full story of verdict

It seems that you can provoke a player any number of times but can get past with a small fine. Why did Gambhir elbow Watson or under what circumstances he elbow? No body is seemed to bother about this question at all. Why would someone come into physical contact with the opposite team player?

Sunil Gavaskar is the only player who is raising this question boldly. There is a biased verdicts on white players when compared to the Subcontinent players. It is always the maximum penalty for players from Subcontinent whereas the white nation players are mildly let off with a fine. I must support Sunil Gavaskar at this juncture, atleast he is outspoken on this issue.

Spread the news across and support for Sunil Gavaskar.

Monday, November 03, 2008

Kumble Quits.

Anil Kumble alias Jumbo quit the international cricket at the last day of 3rd test match between India and Australia at Delhi. He announced his retirement after he had injury problems and he was not able to play 100% in the Delhi test.

He has been playing for India for 18 years! 18 years, thats a long journey! He was phenomenal in his prime years at both forms of cricket, one day and test matches. The lethal delivery which he mastered was the top spinner which hurried on the batsmen from a good length and the batsmen did not have time to adjust, eventually get out LBW. He was a fierce competitor and a good batsmen down the order. The one innings which I cannot forget with his bat was at the ODI (I believe it was the world cup'96) vs Pakistan at Bangalore Chinnaswamy stadium. India was in a bad position after losing 7 or 8 wickets and Kumble played some outstanding strokes to take India to victory. His mother was at the venue and the emotions she showed during the match while her son Kumble was batting is priceless. The emotions reflected each and every Indian at the venue and the millions to their TV sets.

I hope he will write a book on his journey in cricket and hope there are no contraversies. Wish him all the very best on his retirement life.

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Thrilling Finish at F1 World Championship.

Yesterday, 02 Nov 2008 was the final race for F1 at Sao Paulo, Brazil. Here is the background for you

Lewis Hamilton of Mclaren leads the points table and Felipe Massa is at the second place. Massa needs to win this final race to win the drivers championship and Hamilton needs to finish the race atleast by 5th place. Massa is ready at pole position and Hamilton starts the race from 4th position. The stage is set.

Massa leads the race with Alonso behind him at 2nd, Raikkonen at 3rd and 4th position was constantly under change with Glock, Vettel and Hamilton. Hamilton was driving the race at 5th position most of the race and the pit strategy worked for all. Ferrari, Mclaren, Renault, Toyota, Torro Rosso every car maker made no mistake at the pit. This put to Massa in the lead and Hamilton at 5th. The classification after 3 pit stops around 55 laps completed, Massa - 1st, Alonso - 2nd, Raikkonen - 3rd, Glock-4th, Hamilton-5th and Vettel-6th. Vettel at 6th position was on the tail of Hamilton and pushing hard at him. During the lap 68 Kubica who was a lap behind Hamilton made a move that led Vettel ahead of Hamilton. Vettel was in 5th place now with 2 laps remaining and Hamilton was at 6th place. This could ruin his dream of becoming world champion.

At the chequered flag after 2 min, Massa won, Alonso second and Raikkonen finishing 3rd. You thought and the 100,000 thousand home fans at the grand stand thought Massa won the world championship because Hamilton was on 6th. But hold on to your breadth... Glock who was in 4th position has some trouble at the final curve leading to the finish line. Vettel goes past him, finishes 4th and Hamilton right behind him finishes 5th. Have you ever imagined a race like this? I could not believe it! Hamilton won the world championship and Massa lost it by 1 point. It was a great race full of drama(!) and pure adrenalin finish.

Movie Review of Fashion - Hindi

Cast: Priyanka Chopra, Kangana Ranaut and others
Directed By: Madhur Bhandarkar

I was keen to watch this film from the date of release, 29 Oct 2008. I had seen few glimpses of Chandni Bar and Traffic Signal by Madhur Bhandarkar. His films have the original feel or the real life feel in a particular backdrop. This time the fashion world is the backdrop.

Meghna Mathur (Priyanka Chopra) is an aspiring young model from Chandigarh who land into Mumbai in search of her dreams. She is guided by one of the top designer assistant, who is one of the gay. Yes, there are few more gays and it seems that the fashion world particulary has gay designers and they are successful! She does not immediately lands into ramp walk and learns the intricacies of fashion world. When the time comes and with the blessings of business tycoon who runs the fashion industry she becomes the face of fashion.

I do not want to miss out the character played by Kangana. She is superb! excellent acting and her ramp presence is electrifying with the apt music on the background. When she is on ramp all eyes are on her (no blinking!) and she carries the aura required for super model. But when she is at backstage she is a depressed lonely women who lost her identity.

Back to Priyanka's career. She becomes super model and the tycoon who lifted her to top takes advantage of her. One fine day, when she says she is pregnant he dumps her and her attitude becomes arrogant. The transformation from a small town model to super model is as fast as the downturn in her career. The speed at which she goes up, she comes down at a double speed! When she is not in control, she loses herself and heads back to home.

The revival comes after one year when her father persuades to complete her dream. The rest of the story you must have guessed by now. The storyline is expected and the turn of events happen just you thought. So, I feel the spice is missing a lil bit.

Priyanka Chopra carries herself as Meghna Mathur, the changes that are brought in herself are subtle like when she leaves her boyfriend she goes for the cigarette. When the tycoon dumps her she goes for drinking. Kangana as I said, she is brilliant on ramp and off ramp. Other characters do their job. Overall it's a good movie where you can see the glimpses of fashion industry on the backstage.

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

The White Tiger - Book Review.

I completed reading of the new book which won Booker Prize for 2008 - The White Tiger by Arvind Adiga.

I had ordered this book online with Landmark, Chennai and the book was delivered in 3 days which is fantastic... I did not have to walk into a book store, browse or search for the book. It was delivered to me on my hand!

The opening of the book is itself makes the book a page turner. This is about a story of a man from the low-strata of society in India. The views expressed are from his viewpoint about India, the rich and famous, the politics and the system. The language of the book is very simple, easy to understand, no made-up twists or turns. Arvind Adiga brings you the picture of a village in interior India (most of urban population in India, including me do not have any idea of this interior India), the lives they live, joint family system, village heads, local politics and the boy who has seen it all. The protagonist is seen as writing letters to the Chinese president summing up things that has happened in his life and how he is in the present situation.

Shashi Tharoor's 'India From Midnight to the Millenium' is also a similar book (I have not read this book fully.. though) but the view of India is from a upper middle class or upper class citizen who lives in USA but has seen changes in India. When you compare this book with The White Tiger you seem to feel both are correct. The system in which we live in has not changed for more than hundred years and will continue to be so for the next hundred years. The lower caste or lower strata of Indians will continue to stuggle and the rich will become richer. In spite of the system there has been several developments like the economic growth, infrastructure development, global companies having India strategy, market stability and many other things.

People say there is too much of history in India and we as Indians cling to history, brought up listening stories from our Grandma/Grandpa's. In the 'n' number of stories that you might have heard the value or the core thing that you learn is honesty, integrity and sprituality. On the contrary the actual world is full of dirt... it's a clash between the ideology you have learnt as a kid and practical world. Almost all succumb to the practical world to survive and even if someone thinks that he can follow the rules as per his heart he cannot do it in his/this lifetime.

I recommend you to read this book The White Tiger to enhance your knowledge on India, the other side of India or true India.

Diwali.......in Mumbai

We celebrated Diwali or Deepavali as called in South India on 27 Oct 2008, Monday at Mumbai, India. This was our first Diwali on my own. We got up early, had oil bath, pooja in the morning, new dresses for both of us and fire crackers, all as usual. In the night we burnt the fire crackers with another tamil family living on the same building. It was fun!! because for the North Indians the Diwali was yet to begin!!!! and our housing complex has majority North Indians.... I would it was odd for us to celebrate Diwali one day earlier than the rest but we got to follow the system~

The next day 28 Oct 2008, North Indians celebrated Diwali and we had expected full of fire crackers during the day... We were expecting that the sound of fire crackers is going to make us mad... but you will not believe there was no sound - it was like a sunday - during the day. No people on the road, cars were off... we were surprised and wondered where all the people had gone. Then came the evening, the sounds started around 8.00 pm and the colourful rockets invaded the sky from all around.... It was the time that the North Indians began to celebrate in full style. There was lights, sound and action all around with the mist sorrounding the region.... anyone flying above on the flights could have actually enjoyed the spectacular evening yesterday. We enjoyed it watching them lit the flower pots, rockets, chakkars and colourful sticks.

I think I am slowly beginning to understand the culture of North Indians. All their functions, auspicious occasions and celebrations are reserved for the evening/night. The day time is for the prayers and preparing for the night. The North Indians weddings are during night, the ganesh chathurthi celebration was during night time, the dussera or navrathri was celebrated the same and now Diwali is also celebrated during night time. I guess almost all of them sleep only after midnight during occasions! whereas if you look at South India everyone is into bed by 10 pm on any occasions (except the singles). Singles have their own agenda!!!!

Thursday, October 23, 2008

Hum Kise se kum nahin....

This is what Bihari's are trying to prove..... If MNS activists in Mumbai are trying to pose themselves as uneducated thugs then Biharis are matching with them by destroying public properties. What is the possible result is going to be achieved by disrupting and destroying public properties? I do not understand.

I must appreciate Lalu Prasad Yadav for being calm and effective on the situation.... He invited marathi manoos to come and write railway exams in Bihar.... Biharis will not stop them! or beat them... I believe this is the effective reply to Raj Thackeray who thinks he is the saviour of marathi manoos. Marathis or Biharis or anyone can prosper if and only if they are properly educated. Formal education is a must for everyone and education brings in culture where you can appreciate one's life.

I request to Raj Thackarey that instead of asking preference for Marathis in everything ask for formal education for everyone.... make sure that every child in Maharastra gets atleast upto high school education.... build schools and provide incentives for children if they attend the school... awareness is the key.... the prosperity will follow.... every child can become a hero. There is one tamil advertisement where all silver screen stars appear and appeal to children for a formal education. Make something happen as you are been accepted by millions of people as your leader.

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Mission to the Moon

It is a historic day, 22 October 2008 for India and every Indian. The mission to moon Chandrayaan-1 is a success!!!!!. I am proud on the successful launch of first unmanned mission to explore moon by India is doing perfect and orbiting as per plan.

I truly believe days for India has come.

* In the global financial crisis Indian banks and corporates are sealed from the ripple effect.....we have a sound financial system.

* Nuclear deal is a success and when we start to receive the raw materials for nuclear energy there will be a better future for our children and their children.

* In sports we are making stride, slow but steady growth can be seen in the coming years....

* Consumer spending or demand from consumers make corporates to innovate and in the new era we demand more, get more.

* Almost all the global companies have an eye on India and they have separate India strategy.

* Infrastructure is being upgraded at all the metro cities with respect to roads, power, telecom, airport/port and railways.

As I quote Abdul Kalaam's magic word "Dream"... it's time to dream and realise the dream... It is achievable in this new era.

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Awareness....

I read an article in today's, 21 Oct 2008 newspaper Times of India. The article is about a leading bollywood actress walking on the ramp as a model for some designers. The actress goes on to say that she walked the ramp for a good cause... bringing awareness of breast cancer. How could possibly a fashion show in which a bollywood actress dons the role of model can bring about awareness on breast cancer? I cannot imagine how......... maybe I cannot stretch my imagination. Can anyone stretch your imagination and let the world know how this helps in creating awareness of breast cancer????????? A fashion show is where fashion designers sell their work to prospective buyers.... it's that simple.

People are pathetic (including myself)..... first thing the reporter who reported it, the editor who approved for publishing and the readers who are tempted to read about bollywood actresses.

Friday, October 17, 2008

Bankruptcy.....Bubble

Dear Friends,


Got this as a forward. A bit long, but very very explanatory…
Must read!!!


Once there was a little island country. The land of this country was the tiny island itself. The total money in circulation was 2 dollars as there were only two pieces of 1 dollar coins circulating around.

1) There were 3 citizens living on this island country. A owned the land. B and C each owned 1 dollar.

2) B decided to purchase the land from A for 1 dollar. So, now A and C own 1 dollar each while B owned a piece of land that is worth 1 dollar.

* The net asset of the country now = 3 dollars.

3) Now C thought that since there is only one piece of land in the country, and land is non producible asset, its value must definitely go up. So, he borrowed 1 dollar from A, and together with his own 1 dollar, he bought the land from B for 2 dollars.

*A has a loan to C of 1 dollar, so his net asset is 1 dollar.
* B sold his land and got 2 dollars, so his net asset is 2 dollars.
* C owned the piece of land worth 2 dollars but with his 1 dollar debt to A, his net residual asset is 1 dollar.
* Thus, the net asset of the country = 4 dollars.

4) A saw that the land he once owned has risen in value. He regretted having sold it. Luckily, he has a 1 dollar loan to C. He then borrowed 2 dollars from B and acquired the land back from C for 3 dollars. The payment is by 2 dollars cash (which he borrowed) and cancellation of the 1 dollar loan to C. As a result, A now owned a piece of land that is worth 3 dollars. But since he owed B 2 dollars, his net asset is 1 dollar.

* B loaned 2 dollars to A. So his net asset is 2 dollars.
* C now has the 2 coins. His net asset is also 2 dollars.
* The net asset of the country = 5 dollars. A bubble is building up.

(5) B saw that the value of land kept rising. He also wanted to own the land. So he bought the land from A for 4 dollars. The payment is by borrowing 2 dollars from C, and cancellation of his 2 dollars loan to A.

* As a result, A has got his debt cleared and he got the 2 coins. His net asset is 2 dollars.
* B owned a piece of land that is worth 4 dollars, but since he has a debt of 2 dollars with C, his net Asset is 2 dollars.
* C loaned 2 dollars to B, so his net asset is 2 dollars.

* The net asset of the country = 6 dollars; even though, the country has only one piece of land and 2 Dollars in circulation.

(6) Everybody has made money and everybody felt happy and prosperous.

(7) One day an evil wind blew, and an evil thought came to C's mind. "Hey, what if the land price stop going up, how could B repay my loan. There is only 2 dollars in circulation, and, I think after all the land that B owns is worth at most only 1 dollar, and no more."

(8) A also thought the same way.

(9) Nobody wanted to buy land anymore.

* So, in the end, A owns the 2 dollar coins, his net asset is 2 dollars.
* B owed C 2 dollars and the land he owned which he thought worth 4 dollars is now 1 dollar. So his net asset is only 1 dollar.
* C has a loan of 2 dollars to B. But it is a bad debt. Although his net asset is still 2 dollars, his Heart is palpitating.
* The net asset of the country = 3 dollars again.

(10) So, who has stolen the 3 dollars from the country? Of course, before the bubble burst B thought his land was worth 4 dollars. Actually, right before the collapse, the net asset of the country was 6 dollars on paper. B's net asset is still 2 dollars, his heart is palpitating.

(11) B had no choice but to declare bankruptcy. C as to relinquish his 2 dollars bad debt to B, but in return he acquired the land which is worth 1 dollar now.

* A owns the 2 coins; his net asset is 2 dollars.
* B is bankrupt; his net asset is 0 dollar. (He lost everything)
* C got no choice but end up with a land worth only 1 dollar

* the net asset of the country = 3 dollars.

************ **End of the story; BUT ************ ********* ******

There is however a redistribution of wealth.
A is the winner, B is the loser, C is lucky that he is spared.
A few points worth noting -

(1) when a bubble is building up, the debt of individuals to one another in a country is also building up.
(2) This story of the island is a closed system whereby there is no other country and hence no foreign debt. The worth of the asset can only be calculated using the island's own currency. Hence, there is no net loss.
(3) An over-damped system is assumed when the bubble burst, meaning the land's value did not go down to below 1 dollar.
(4) When the bubble burst, the fellow with cash is the winner. The fellows having the land or extending loan to others are the losers. The asset could shrink or in worst case, they go bankrupt.
(5) If there is another citizen D either holding a dollar or another piece of land but refrains from taking part in the game, he will neither win nor lose. But he will see the value of his money or land goes up and down like a see saw.
(6) When the bubble was in the growing phase, everybody made money.
(7) If you are smart and know that you are living in a growing bubble, it is worthwhile to borrow money (like A) and take part in the game. But you must know when you should change everything back to cash.
(8) As in the case of land, the above phenomenon applies to stocks as well.
(9) The actual worth of land or stocks depends largely on psychology (or speculation).


Tuesday, October 14, 2008

sTress Test.

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Wednesday, October 08, 2008

MHS Reunion

Our school, Mountain Home School (MHS) or Mountain Home High School (MHHS) situated at Coonoor, The Nilgiris, Tamilnadu, India is having a Reunion for all students passed out of MHHS on 08 November 2008 at the school hall. If any students studied in MHHS wish to participate please contact Raquel Brownie @ raquelb.raquel@gmail.com for more details.

I wish I could attend this reunion but I won't be able to make it this time. I do not know how many of you give credit to your school for your present attitude or character but I certainly gained some of my characteristics from MHS. One of important thing that I still manage to do it is Punctuality.... I give my 100% to make it on time every time for all occasions, it can be an interview with employer or a meeting with customer or just a casual meet with a friend. The seed that was sown in MHS bears fruit in my lifetime!

The next one is the schools in the hills (Coonoor, Ooty, Mount Abu, Darjeeling etc) have two things in common... One is sorrounded by nature and as Rabindranath Tagore said A student learns when he/she is with nature..... how true!!!!!! the other is... the school leaves the students to pursue their own interests from the young age. There is no force applied on students to study and get distinction on all subjects.... it is upto the students... the schools let them decide their fate.... if you study hard you will do well in future.... if you are good in sports pursue sports as career. The schools or the teachers don't tell you straight in your face but it is a common culture seen and you will feel it when you pass out of the school.

Monday, October 06, 2008

Jab We Met.

We saw this movie in a bus while traveling from Delhi to Agra on a one day tour during Aug'08. My initial thought was 'not a stupid Hindi movie again' and that too on a morning but surprisingly the movie was good. It is better movie than any other hindi films which has hyped up marketing, promos and make you believe that is not there in the movie. This movie was hilarious right from the start when Kareena joins Shahid Kapoor in a train. The journey thus begins.

The lead pair have acted well and is an example of well crafted screenplay, simple plot and no masala flavour. Why am I writing now.... because we had a chance to see this movie again yesterday, 04 Oct'08 on 9X channel and I wanted to put down my comments on it. You do not get to see good films often in bollywood, I give a thumbs up for this movie.

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Living in Terror.

Each and every household in the Northern parts of India are discussing about the terror strikes - bomb blasts that has happened in recent months. The latest bomb blast on last Saturday at New Delhi (27 Sep 2008) and yesterday's bomb blasts at Gujarat & Maharashtra has left us (the people) to live in/with terror. Although we are strong enough and contend that it did not happen in our own backyard, there is a sense of fear instilled on everyone's life. My wife is already telling me that she is afraid of going in Mumbai local train. I think this is the case with every household living in this part of the country yet we go to business every day as usual! I do not think its the courage but as said in the movie 'A Wednesday' we are used to it! We definitely get used to everything and anything very soon! The adaptability at its best! Even the terrorists will get tired of their acts because the response from people, administration, politicians remains the same.... Nothing changes!!!!.

As I come from South India I cannot hold to compare this environment with the South Indian environment. South India, particularly Tamilnadu and Kerala are largely peaceful. There can be communal violence seen but not between religions. Why do we see such fanatics of a particular community from North India? I rationalise that this is due to

* Discrimination by the majority community.
* Lack of Education.
* Negligency from the governments state and central.
* Inferiority complex among the minority community.

The environment is better in South India largely due to proper education is available to all.... I will not say there is no discrimination at all but by and large the discrimination is tolerable (I guess). Everyone is treated by their background in education, work and status and not by religion. All have equal opportunities in South India when compared in North India in terms of education or work or business.

Any opinions? Am I correct or gross wrong in my judgement?

Monday, September 29, 2008

Movie Review of Poi Solla Porom - Tamil.

Starring: Karthik Kumar, Preethi, Nedumudi Venu, Mouli, Nazer, Delhi Ganesh

Direction: Vijay

Production: Priyadarshan

This film has great star cast like Nedumudi Venu, Mouli, Nasser and Delhi Ganesh. The movie has some good slapstick comedy throughout the film, some edgy moments and good all round performance. A comedy where you can laugh your heart out...... extraordinary performance from Nasser and Mouli makes the film to stand out. It will be difficult to choose the best actor performance between Nasser and Mouli. I thoroughly enjoyed the film!

Nedumudi Venu, as a middle class retired govt., employee buys a piece of land from his savings but later to find out that he is fooled by the real estate agent, Nasser. Nasser company occupies his land and extorts for more money from Nedumudi Venu to vacate the land. When the options run out of hand to solve the issue, Karthik's drama troupe and his travel agent come to rescue. They plan to get the money from Nasser and pay the extortion amount. Mouli is another actor who can take the screen all for himself if he is on the scene. The events that turn out in fooling Nasser has comedy and some edgy moments!.

The other actors whose acting needs mentioning are Delhi Ganesh, Bosky and Ganesh (the anchor). They come as subtle characters and have good roles.

In all the movie is a fun to watch..... go and watch it if you feeling bored.

Movie Review of Subramaniapuram - Tamil

I saw this movie on the weekend. One word to describe the movie....'Brilliant'. The plot, story, script, backdrop, screenplay, casting and music are on par with excellence. Hats off to the director M. Sasikumar for making a movie that can compared with Hollywood movies.

The backdrop the movie is set in 1980's, in a small town at Madurai (my hometown) in down South of India. I was a kid during these days but I remember in the 80's Madurai was referred to as not big to be a city and not too small to be called as village. It was an in-between city and my uncles were in their teenage or just completed during 80's. The 80's era was like you need to be very good in order to survive or else you are left behind. This 'survival of the fittest' applies even today but it was severe during 80's. The youths of 80's were irresponsible and did not knew the consequences of their actions which is aptly shown by the lead characters in the movie.

The events of movie moves step by step in a normal pace. The screenplay never shakes since the director brings the best of everyone involved in the film. The story goes like this - 5 friends who hang around a local politician all day and night jobless.... just to show that they have someone to backup in case of problems. The two lead characters played by Jai and Sasikumar would go into fight for petty issues which lands them at local police station. The brother of local politician comes up everytime to save them from the police. So, when they do a big job for them to show their thanks the rescue never comes. The two then set to take revenge on the politician's family and in between this revenge the 'new status' bring them more trouble leading to blood bath in the particular area, Subramaniyapuram.

There is a love track between Jai and Swathi who comes from the politician's family. The track is beautiful and blends with the main story. Every character is treated as important as the two lead characters. If I retrospect the movie I can see that each and every character had their own traits and used to the fullest.

Jai - has a bad temper, perishes.
Sasikumar - is a close friend of Jai, perishes.
Kanja Karuppu - is greedy and lusts on money, perishes.
Swati - is young and vulnerable. Used by the family.
Handicapped youth - supports Jai and Sasikumar.
Local Politician - Politicians... you know how they can be.
Younger brother of local politician - Betrays Jai and Sasikumar, perishes.

I compare it to Hollywood movies, the reason is - we are not used to such characters. You will find villians in the movies who are meant to do bad on hero & his family but this is completely a different genre. The heroes in this movie are anti-heroes and everyone has a grey side or betrayal side. This makes the movie on par with classic or great movies.

I need to mention on the art work.... every care is taken to get the backdrop right. The temple function, serial lights, the dressing style, the hair style and the crudeness of the youth.

Experience it and you will know what I mean!!!!!!!!!

Friday, September 26, 2008

Exam Results are out............

Hurrrayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy.... MBA exam results are published..... cleared all the final semester papers...... A deep sense of relief now prevails........ uhhhhfffffff!!!!

Click to know your results........

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Exam Results.

It is frustrating......... we had written our final semester exams in June'08 and the results are out for all the streams except MBA. The results are released on 18th Sep 2008 and MBA results are still pending. I have cleared all the papers so far.... the final hurdle.... hope to see the results within this month end.

Pray to god!!!!!

New LPG Connection.

I got a new LPG (Cooking Gas) connection yesterday, 24 Sep 2008 and it was pretty easy in Mumbai. Just registered with HP Gas online, took the print out and went to the dealer with the rental agreement copy, made payment, just like that it was finished. Whereas in Chennai or anywhere in South India most of the LPG dealers follow stringent norms, ask for documents, verify them and when the new connection is approved it will be atleast 7-10 days before the gas cylinder comes to your house.

The only similarity is the complaints with dealers..... It is all the same... Consumers complaining that the cylinder has not arrived even after booking before 10 days back and so on. The dealers are very cool and it's their daily routine to deal with such customers. I cannot imagine sitting at the other side of the desk with the dealer..... every day the phone rings continously for booking and complaints. It's a mad world out over there with the demand and supply not meeting on right terms.

The other hitch in getting the new connection is the purchase of new stove from the dealer. It is written that PURCHASE OF HOT PLATE IS NOT COMPULSORY but as you all would have experienced it IT IS COMPULSORY to purchase the stove or else you are not given immediate connection. I had to pay for the stove although I did not want to. I could have easily fought with HP Gas and avoided the extra payment but still I did not have the courage fearing the future relationship turn sour with the dealer. I believe this is the repeated mistake that we all make in order to keep things smooth and the system take advantage of us.

I think I will fight with HP Gas and find out the root cause. I believe there must be a mafia or group behind this nationwide with the insiders from HP Gas.

Monday, September 22, 2008

Official Oscar Entry - Taare Zameen Par

Aamir does it again... after Lagaan which went for nominations for Oscar in 2001... his directorial debut of the film Taare Zameen Par has been nominated from India for Best Foreign Film Category for the year 2008.

Here is the story

It is one of the closest film to my heart!. Everything is perfect in this film... the plot, the screenplay, the actors, camera, lighting, flow of the story.... a complete movie. If there is someone who does not get emotional at the end of the film.... he/she must be retard. There are so many criticism for and against this film.... in the end whatever the criticism is it touches your heart.

I saw a part of this movie in my cousin's place at Tuticorin who was raving about the film.... I enjoyed the full movie in Chennai and I cried at the scene where Darsheel sees Aamir painted him on the paper at painting competition. One of true defining moments!

I sincerely hope TZP wins the Oscar which is long due for India.

National Language - Hindi... Continued.

After the break....

Government Sense - In terms of government if Hindi had been the official language then everything is clear. There will not be any dispute in understanding by the sender or receiver between govt officials. Look at the central government forms.... everything is in Hindi/English and prominent is Hindi. There is a fear of misunderstanding among South Indians when it comes to filling up of central govt., forms. For example, PF forms, this is one of the important forms which gets rejected because of incomplete information or incorrect information. We are required to consult a broker for filling up the forms who then charges us a small fee. This situation could be avoided if we all had known Hindi.

The Pros of avoiding Hindi by South Indians....

English - Our English is far better than anyone in the world barring the English themselves. Bangalore has made it to a world class city in a short span of one decade simply because of English speaking talent available.

FDI Foreign Direct Investments - The investment from large MNCs pour in South India whereas it is low in North India. Chennai has become the hub for automobile parts manufacturing and Hyundai is one of the large investor.

People Capital - Due to the knowledge of English and technical education, the South Indians are able to travel all around the corners of the world and are able to adapt to the situation. The North Indians hate 'firangis' and I do not criticize them, after all it was the firangis who ruled us for more than 100 years!

Conclusion:
Weighing the pros and cons, the end result is we have lost a unified India. We loved English (myself included), it was like an obsession to learn the foreign language but we forgot that Hindi is our national language. The main agenda of the protestors of anti-Hindi was we would lose the identity as locals and the local language Tamil. If you look at the North Indians, by learning Hindi in their curriculam they have not lost their state identity. Gujarthis are proud of their language, same way goes for Marathis and the Bengalis. Who likes to lose their identity? No one!!!! Infact, we could have adopted the Hindi imposition and still proud to be called as Tamilians or Telugus or Malayalee or Kannadigas. The self-immolation protests in Tamilnadu against the Hindi imposition put a permanent seal on Central Government not to talk on this issue in future.

It is my dream to see a unified India where language is not a barrier to communication or trade. We should be proud to show our face as Indians not as North Indians or South Indians. India, where people speak one language for the world outside but still plural inside.

If I have left something or missed something let me know.

National Language - Hindi.

This thought has been going on for over a 6 months and above. India is seen as North India and South India. South India represents the four states Tamilnadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Kerala where the majority of citizens do not know Hindi. The rest of India is represented as North India and almost 90% know Hindi ie., read, write and speak. I take 90% since I am not sure of North East states.

In the above comparison you can see that India is basically divided into people who know Hindi and people who do not. Although India constitues 28 states and 7 Union Territories with 21 official languages and with a 1652 dialects the majority speak Hindi. India - Facts

Let us (South Indians) look at what we have lost by opposing to Hindi education when it was made as compulsory language to be taught in schools.

Communication Sense - If the South Indians had opportunity to learn the Hindi language as part of their curriculam from the primary school, I see no communication barrier between a Delhi resident and a Madurai resident, for example. They could have comfortably spoken in Hindi and would have made communication clearer and better. Now, with no Hindi background a South Indian feels deprived that he has no common language between a guy in Mumbai and Chennai. The common language English is used between Indians but that is a foreign language... why should we use a foreign language when Hindi is our own?.

Business Sense - The major major loss is the business or trade. If you look at the textile shops, big as in malls or small as in towns in South India they are owned by North Indians. Why? Simple....The major textile manufacturers are located in Gujarat and other parts of West India. They are primarily Hindi speaking citizens and do not like to work who do not know Hindi. Hence, they come down to South India, setup their own shops in these cities and towns, do brisk business, take profits and invest in their native state.
What happens if our Tamil or Telugu guy had studied Hindi, comfortable with Hindi, communicates well in Hindi the North Indians will not find a place to settle in South India since all the businesses are conducted well by the locals.

Transportation Sense - This can be a subsect of Business sense but I like to discuss in a separate paragraph. Since I am from the transportation industry I can explain a bit. All the truckers in South India except Hyderabad and northern parts of Karnataka will run upto only Bangalore. Bangalore is the main hub for goods that is sent from South India to North India. Why? The same reason... Our drivers are not equipped with a common tool called Hindi. The truck from Punjab or Himachal Pradesh can come upto Bangalore for delivery & pickup of goods but a Kerala or Tamilnadu truck cannot pass Bangalore because lack of Hindi knowledge. South Indian drivers are intimidated or even afraid to go beyond Bangalore.
What if our drivers had some knowledge of Hindi? I am sure drivers would atleast know to read the local language and if they knew some basic Hindi too.... they can go that extra mile. The trucks from South India can criss cross all over India. Does this make sense?

Taking a break for few min...

Friday, September 19, 2008

Chanakya Quotes...

Sharing some well inspiring thoughts from Chanakya.....worth reading

Chanakya's Quotes - Worth reading a million times.

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"A person should not be too honest.
Straight trees are cut first
and Honest people are victimised first."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC 75 BC)

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"Even if a snake is not poisonous,
it should pretend to be venomous."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275 BC)
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"The biggest guru-mantra is:
Never share your secrets with anybody. !
It will destroy you."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275 BC)

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"There is some self-interest behind every friendship.
There is no Friendship without self-interests.
This is a bitter truth."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275 BC)
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"Before you start some work, always ask yourself three questions -
Why am I doing it,
What the results might be and
Will I be successful.
Only when you think deeply and find satisfactory answers to these questions, go ahead."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275 BC)
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"As soon as the fear approaches near,
attack and destroy it."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275 BC)
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"Once you start a working on something,
don't be afraid of failure and don't abandon it.
People who work sincerely are the happiest."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275BC)

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"The fragrance of flowers spreads only in the direction of the wind.
But the goodness of a person spreads in all direction."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275BC)
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"A man is great by deeds, not by birth."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275BC)

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"Treat your kid like a darling for the first five years..For the next five years, scold them.
By the time they turn sixteen, treat them like a friend. Your grown up children are your best friends."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275BC)

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"Books are as useful to a stupid person
as a mirror is useful to a blind person."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275BC)
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"Education is the best friend.
An educated person is respected everywhere.
Education beats the beauty and the youth."
Chanakya quotes (Indian politician, strategist and writer, 350 BC-275BC)

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Collapse of investment banks.

On a Monday morning when you are coming to office, you are told that your company has been sold out to someone else or your company has filed bankruptcy...... what will be your reaction? I will be devastated on the news.... I believe this was the feeling that went through the minds of 2000-2500 employees in India working for Lehman Brothers. In the case of Meryll Linch the situation is not so bad with Bank of America taking over Meryll on Monday. Yet on both these situations, the employees future is uncertain and how cruel of the management to leave in mid-air.

At the outset I believe that India and Indians working for Big Multinationals must learn to expect such things in the future. In a globalised economy nothing is certain... a change in US will lead a change in India too... a change in Japan will affect India... although everything is not direct. The economies are so interlinked with the advent of globalization no country is single...

Such kind of shocks are new to us.... but when you need prosperity you will stumble on things with bad taste.... got to swallow it.

I hope the international banking community wakes up and take stock of their own backyard... clean up their own dealings on financial derivatives, real estate and mortgage loans. I believe the Indian banks are more conservative on derivaties and all kinds of loans. They are not lured by the incentives but look at the pitfalls too before committing themselves or on behalf of their customer.

Monday, September 15, 2008

Movie Review of 'A Wednesday' - Hindi

Last Saturday, 13 Sep 2008 I had been to this movie after reading a series of good reviews.... I must say it did not disappoint!!! The movie is good, excellent screenplay and a plain script with no masala flavour. I also believe the script is original from the director Neeraj Pandey. With so many remakes and copy cats in Bollywood it is good to see an original movie!

The narration of the movie is done by Anupem Kher who has done his role to the 'T' portraying as Maharashtra Police Commissioner... The instructions from the commissioner fly high during the tense hours and he is comfortable doing the role. Nasureedin Shah, another actor who has portrayed the character of 'Aam Aadmi' with elan. He fits into the role and upon his instructions the movie moves forward. The rest of the crew have done their job! Kudos to the team of 'A Wednesday'.

By looking at the way movie went forward and with the pre-conception that I knew what was going to happen to the terrorists the suspense was gone.... I believed that there is no motive for Nasureedin Shah to ask for release of terrorists because he was so simple and the obvious motive was that shown in the movie!. Maybe I watch too many films that I can pre-conceive the ideas or it maybe because of the reviews that I read before watching the movie.

The question raised by the movie is "What if.....". Again, this comes to the subject of the system in India. As in my last review Mumbai Meri Jaan I said it's very difficult to break the system. If we try to break, we break. Nasureedin Shah tries to break the system and as shown in the movie, he succeeds although the way he does may be a question. I am sure this movie will remain as a fantasy for a 'Common man or Aam Aadmi'. I am skeptical if anyone dares to do it... Will anyone in real life take such steps?....

Tuesday, September 09, 2008

An Interesting Mail..... Management Lessons....

5 - MINUTE MANAGEMENT LESSONS



Lesson 1:


A man is getting into the shower just as his wife is finishing up her shower, when the doorbell rings.

The wife quickly wraps herself in a towel and runs downstairs. When she opens the door, there stands Bob, the next-door neighbor.

Before she says a word, Bob says, "I'll give you $800 to drop that towel, "

After thinking for a moment, the woman drops her towel and stands naked in front of Bob After a few seconds, Bob hands her $800 and leaves.

The woman wraps back up in the towel and goes back upstairs.

When she gets to the bathroom, her husband asks, "Who was that?"

"It was Bob the next door neighbor," she replies.

"Great," the husband says, "did he say anything about the $800 he owes me?"




Moral of the story

If you share critical information pertaining to credit and risk with your shareholders in time,you may be in a position to prevent avoidable exposure.


*********

Lesson 2:


A priest offered a Nun a lift. She got in and crossed her legs, forcing her gown to reveal a leg. The priest nearly had an accident. After controlling the car, he stealthily slid his hand up her leg.

The nun said, "Father, remember Psalm 129?"

The priest removed his hand. But, changing gears, he let his hand slide up her leg again.

The nun once again said, "Father, remember Psalm 129?"

The priest apologized "Sorry sister but the flesh is weak."

Arriving at the convent, the nun sighed heavily and went on her way.

On his arrival at the church, the priest rushed to look up Psalm 129 It said, "Go forth and seek, further up, you will find glory."



Moral of the story

If you are not well informed in your job, you might miss a great opportunity.


*********

Lesson 3:


A sales rep, an administration clerk, and the manager are walking to lunch when they find an antique oil lamp. They rub it and a Genie comes out.

The Genie says, "I'll give each of you just one wish."

"Me first! Me first!" says the admin clerk. "I want to be in the Bahamas, driving a speedboat, without a care in the world."

Puff! She's gone.

"Me next! Me next!" says the sales rep. "I want to be in Hawaii, relaxing on the beach with my personal masseuse, an endless supply of Pina Coladas and the love of my life."

Puff! He's gone.

"OK, you're up," the Genie says to the manager.

The manager says, "I want those two back in the office after lunch."



Moral of the story

Always let your boss have the first say.


*********

Lesson 4:


An eagle was sitting on a tree resting, doing nothing. A small rabbit saw the eagle and asked him, "Can I also sit like you and do nothing?"

The eagle answered: "Sure , why not."

So, the rabbit sat on the ground below the eagle and rested. All of a sudden, a fox appeared, jumped on the rabbit and ate it.



Moral of the story

To be sitting and doing nothing, you must be sitting very, very high up.


*********

Lesson 5:


A turkey was chatting with a bull. "I would love to be able to get to the top of that tree," sighed the turkey,"but I haven't got the energy."

"Well, why don't you nibble on some of my droppings?" replied the bull.

They're packed with nutrients."

The turkey pecked at a lump of dung, and found it actually gave him enough strength to reach the lowest branch of the tree.

The next day, after eating some more dung, he reached the second branch.

Finally after a fourth night, the turkey was proudly perched at the top of the tree. He was promptly spotted by a farmer, who shot him out of the tree.



Moral of the story

BullShit might get you to the top, but it won't keep you there.


*********

Lesson 6:


A little bird was flying south for the Winter.It was so cold the bird froze and fell to the ground into a large field. While he was lying there, a cow came by and dropped some dung on him. As the frozen bird lay there in the pile of cow dung, he began to realize how warm he was.

The dung was actually thawing him out! He lay there all warm and happy, and soon began to sing for joy.

A passing cat heard the bird singing and came to investigate.

Following the sound, the cat discovered the bird under the pile of cow dung, and promptly dug him out and ate him.



Morals of this story

(1) Not everyone who shits on you is your enemy.

(2) Not everyone who gets you out of shit is your friend.

(3) And when you're in deep shit, it's best to keep your mouth shut!

The Necklace of Mumbai.......Marine Drive


And the sunset.......................

















We had visited the famous Marine Drive which is also called as The Necklace of Mumbai...... Surprisingly the area is clean.... I guess the hawkers were removed from the pathway.... It's wonderful to sit there and gaze at the sea..... and the other side it's the towerline of Mumbai...


Laptop - Back to Normal...

My laptop got washed and cleaned yesterday, 08 Sep 2008. It's now back to normal.....I guess.

Friday, September 05, 2008

Laptop Crash.........

My laptop crashed today..... 05 sep 2008.

I was browsing yesterday, 04 sep 2008 at home and suddenly there was a virus attack...before i could switch out the wireless modem..... the virus sat on the laptop.

Today I tried to clean up the virus with Antivirus software...... but I think that made thing worse and finally the system will not boot up. It is a rest day for the laptop!!!!!!!!!!! finally....

Thursday, September 04, 2008

Title of the blog.

Do you think I should change the title of my blog? If yes, can you suggest some blog titles for me.... as far as I know I am scribbling that is coming to my mind.... and thats my title of the blog.....

Do you also think if I change the title I would get more comments?

I love to hear any kind of comments on my blog..... I will be more inspired to write....err... scribble. :)

Magic Box......

It's a magic box... a pandora box.... once you open it you cannot close it... you will get whatever you want.... practically anything... everyone has in their houses.... almost everyone has forgot to socialize or even talk with neighbours... childrens forget there is a playing ground.... that there is a sports world outside... any guesses?

u guessed it right! it's the gr8 Television....T.V. I would say invention of the century.... it ties you up... anyone can easily get addicted to it.... the varities of channels for our view is unlimited.... and the news is a new tamil (regional language) channel is to be on air from monday, 08 september 2008.... cartoons, movies, regional language, travel & living, adventure, sports, religious, fashion and what not!!!... you will get to see everything and anything inside this box..... what a magic box!!!!!!!!!

The motive for writing this came to me because I feel I am addicted to it............... got a holiday on ganesh chathurthi (god with a elephant head) and started to watch TV from morning and was able to switch off only for a few hours in the afternoon.... again started the pandora box around 6.00 pm in the evening and it ran until 11.30 pm......... didn't step outside of the house during that day.... pathetic....... my world has shrunk into a rectangle box....called TV.

I guess most of you are doing the same thing......... how to get rid of this????? any kind of ideas are welcome - bright, funny, silly, confusing ..... all kinds are welcome.