Logical Obscurity

Moved to Wordpress

2009-04-07T11:19:00.004+04:00

I've moved to http://logicalobscurity.wordpress.com/

Many reasons. Most of them you can find on IHM's post here.

Please don't disown this blog just coz it moved to wordpress. I promise it will be a lot better there.

Thanks and see you guys there.

x
Masood

55 word fiction

2009-04-06T11:59:00.005+04:00

“HELP!!! Leave me!! Help, PLEASE!!!!”
“It’s a girl from your college”
“HEY!!! Hey YOU! LET HER GO YOU #%&$@#”
“Aunty, please check on her”
“I’ve lost my honor. Don’t want to lose more”
“He got there on time”
Hero. Messiah.
He was trembling.
7 months later
She saw him. Ignored.
He walked away. Smiling.

Phew! This was not easy. Lame amateurish effort. Couldn't come up with a title too. Oh well, Monkey is off my back now. Cheers.

First Born Tag by a Dad

2009-04-01T11:18:00.010+04:00

How can a man take the first born tag? Like this :p

1. Was your first pregnancy planned?

Yes and No. We wanted it but didn’t expect it to happen so soon.

2. Were you married at the time?

I think so ;)

3. What were your reactions?

Delight. And a little fear. It was a big leap. Had all kinds of questions in my head. And a little proud too.

4. Was abortion an option for you?

No and hope never.

5. How old were you?

27. How does that matter?

6. How did you find out you were pregnant?

Those faint red lines (which were non-conclusive) and then a blood test the following day.

7. Who did you tell first?

My brother. And then the entire family while we were out for dinner celebrating my brother’s promotion. I stood up, raised my coke glass, walked over to where my dad was sitting and said this, “This man here is going to become a grand-father and me a father soon. Inshallah”. All hell broke loose after that! (My family consists of 2 elder brothers n their wives, my sis n her hubby n my dad mom and 1 nephew)

8. Due date?

27^th Jan 2009

9. Did you have morning sickness?

For the first few weeks, it was pretty bad. But manageable. She had only 3 separate days during her first trimester when it was absolutely terrible. Otherwise, more or less, OK.

10. What did you crave?

Aah. I cannot mention that here or else I am so dead ;) But for the record, she wanted all kinds of chaats – pani puri was her favorite, ice cream, vegetarian food, 100% attention, unexpected hugs and affection and lots n lots n lots of love….which I gave! :)

11. Who/what irritated you the most?

I think I irritated her the most. I’d like to be proved wrong but that’s what I think. But otherwise, she hated when people kept giving advice. Plus there was this one time when we had a small get together and 3-4 women spoke only about what could go wrong during a pregnancy and newborns. That really had her shaken. Took me days to put her mind to rest. She also hated taking those tablets (Prenatal, Calcium, Iron and Folic acid tablets). Plus the migraine and lower back pain.

12. What was your first child’s sex?

Boy

13. Did you wish you had the opposite sex of what you were getting?

Nope. We were open to both. Did not determine the sex of the child for that reason.

14. How many kg/pounds did you gain throughout the pregnancy?

22 kg. At the time she got pregnant, she was almost 6-7 kg under weight though.

15. Did you have a baby shower?

Nope

16. Was it a surprise or did you know?

Pass :p

17. Did you have any complications during your pregnancy?

A little. We had a few scary moments early on. She had this severe pain in her lower abdomen and we had to get her admitted in the hospital for 2 days. Several tests later docs were unable to determine the reason! Just some cramps they ultimately concluded. I am still curious.

Anyways....a week short of her due date, we took the Doppler test. And that showed that there was some strain on the baby. Blood flow and blood pressure was getting compromised. Doc asked us to get admitted the following morning and they would induce labor and get things rolling.

18. Where did you give birth?

Panat Hospital, Aurangabad, India

19. How many hours were you in labor?

Doctors induced labor. Was in for 26 hours (poor girl :( ) before deciding to go ahead with C-Section. Actually, there was some drastic fluctuations in the heart rate of the baby. They told us the baby could be at risk if we wait longer.

20. Who drove you to the hospital/birth center?

My driver. Along with me, my wife, her mom and her brother who is also a doctor.

21. Who watched you give birth?

Two gynac docs, 1 anesthetist, 2 nurses and 1 pediatric doc.

22. Was it natural or c-section?

C-Section

23. Did you take medicine to ease the pain?

Yes.

24. How much did your child weigh?

2.8 kg

25. When was your child actually born?

20 Jan 2009 at 6:14 pm

26. What was your reaction when the doctor announced the sex of the baby?

I started crying. Not because it was a boy but because it was MY baby. After 9 months of wait and anticipation, the moment finally arrived. I'd been dreaming about this for so long.

27. What was your first reaction on seeing the baby?

Amazement. I couldn’t believe it. His eyes were open. He kept gazing around before stopping to look at me. Like he was checking me out. Even raised his tiny, little right hand as if he was saying hello. He was not crying and kept staring right into my eyes. I can NEVER forget that moment. And he looked just like my wife. Beautiful eyes, great complexion, perfect nose and jawline, lovely face...OK am I praising my baby or my wife? ;)

28. Did you cry?

Probably more than my baby. I cried when I first heard him cry from the operation theatre. I cried when I first held him. Cried when I hugged my wife, dad, mom and my entire family. I think all I did that time was cry.

29. What did you name him/her?

Ibrahim :)

30. How old is your first born today?

2 months and 12 days.

Thank you, Solilo. This was fun. It's like reliving those fantastic memories this first pregnancy brought in our lives. I'll ask my wife to do this as well. Will add her comments to mine later.

Fit hai toh Hit hai

2009-03-30T15:31:00.005+04:00

This is a fitness update. For the record,

I've started the "couch potato to 5k" running plan and "100 push ups" training program along with my already hugely successful "Atkins" diet plan.

In 39 days of diet, I've lost 10 kg. Another 6 kg to loose before I reach my target weight. But in terms of fitness, there's a long way to go.

Gone are the days when I captained my college cricket team or represented my region at the All-India national athletic meet or was the sports captain at my school.

For now, I am just a couch potato (who does not eat potato coz of the diet) but spends a lot of time on the couch! But that's going to change. And soon. Last evening was my first training session.

Thank you, Roop for sharing these fitness programs. And to Fitness Fervor.

p.s. Wasn't that a bloody clichéd title? :p

Isn't a baby girl your child too?

2009-03-25T16:05:00.005+04:00

Yesterday afternoon, an ex-colleague visited my office. She was here to pick her final settlement cheque and experience certificate. She dropped by my desk to say hello and congratulated on my baby. She had had a baby girl a few months back so I inquired about her. She was doing well. Even showed me her photo. Cute little girl. Asked her about how things were otherwise? She informed me that she almost got divorced. I was a little shocked. Stepping into some personal space, I asked her what happened. The reasons:

1. She gave birth to a baby girl
2. She called her mom over for the delivery

Who was the architect behind all this? Mother-in-law
Husband was helpless. Mentally poisoned & emotionally blackmailed by his mother.
Things are OK now. They are back together after 6 months of separation.

I was so freakin shocked. What is wrong with a girl child? Why are people still bloody fixated with this boy child thing? Isn't a girl also your child? Is that old women fuckin nuts?

And what's wrong if she called her mom over for the delivery? Wouldn't she want her mother around during her difficult time? Completely beats me.

A couple almost got divorced because she gave birth to a baby girl. It just did not register in my head. He is a young, educated guy working with a MNC. How could that jerk let this happen? He even got her visa canceled and sent her back home.

I've heard such cases but was under the impression it predominantly happens in rural India. Illiteracy, society, finances, unawareness, call-whatever-fuck-you-wanna-call-it, could be reasons. But how can you explain this?

We may have hopped into the 21st century but our minds are still rotting. Thousands of women have made this country proud and still people separate because it is a baby girl? Fucking hypocrites.

I am appalled. I feel disgusted. What does it take to change such lousy filthy minds? How does their damn consciences allow them to sleep at night? Is this what we call progressive India? I am sure this is NOT a one-of case. Thousands must be suffering the same fate as my friend. When does it end?

My idea of therapy

2009-03-23T16:06:00.008+04:00

No bones to guess I was depressed all weekend. And now I've decided to put an end to this. No more depressive, sad, sombre or pitiful posts. Folks who know me or have followed this blog for a while know I'm better than that. Enough is enough. So what did I do to get over the mood?

Therapy!

No, I did not see a psychiatrist. Not that kind of therapy but the other kind. This kind:

1. Shopping therapy:

There was a sale at Azzaro. Need I say more? ;)

2. Food therapy:

Why wouldn't a double cheese, grilled jalapeño chicken burger make you feel good? ;)

3. Fun therapy:

And with whatever little frustration left, I knocked out those pins left, right and center!!

I think it was just in the mind. The moment I decided to let go, everything was instantly better.

Thank you to one and all for your supportive and encouraging words. Cheers :)

Too many whys and what's with the 'T'

2009-03-21T19:21:00.007+04:00

I don't know why people blog. Is it because:

1. They are bored and don't know how else to kill time
2. Want a medium to express their views be it personal, social, political, sports or current affairs
3. To vent out their frustration. Rant, blah, ramble, swear etc.
4. Those with literary aspirations use this as a platform (be it writing, poetry or even photography)
5. It's cool to have a blog
6. Networking. Want to be in touch with family/friends/acquaintances/fellow bloggers
7. Record their lives and experiences. A public diary.
8. To tell the world how well they can cook?

There could be more. Me just thinking aloud.

I started blogging for just one reason: #7

But with time #2, #3 and #6 jumped in.

And today I proudly introduce you to the latest joinee: #1

Yes, that's what this post is about. I've got absolutely nothing to do. So here I am.

As I write, my wife and baby are guest of honors at a big family gathering hosted on their behalf. It's a celebration usually done when the baby is forty days old. No clue why. But they do it. My baby is two months old (touchwood). They had to delay the function for some reason.

So it's happening today. What's really weird is I could not attend. For some reason I had to stay put. I still don't know why. And I can't believe I'm sitting here typing this post rather than be by my wife's side holding my adorable little baby. Will never be able to get over this. I've written numerous times about my baby and how much I miss the little kiddo. This was my chance to spend a quick weekend with them and I've missed it. This regret is gonna be with me for a long time.

For now, all I can resort to is write a post about it and continue feeling super-miserable.

p.s. My last five post titles have started with a T!!!! WHY?

Tears, Parenthood & Wifey

2009-03-17T14:36:00.006+04:00

Last night I shed my first tears seeing my little baby on webcam. I longed to take him in my hands. To hold him, play with him, talk to him, just see him play, hear him make weird sounds, walk around with him, console him when he cries, clean his nappies, put him to sleep - I'm missing all that and more. Everything seems incomplete now. Meaningless.

I'm not sure what changes parenthood has brought to me. One minute I was just another guy with not too many responsibilities, and the next, I'm a dad with all the responsibilities. It's crazy.

A lot of things change upon becoming a parent. But I'd say, the first and foremost change comes to the relationship between the couple. Simply put, it brings them closer. Nine months is a long time. And it can be a difficult and intriguing time for a women. With all kinds of physical, mental, hormonal, psychological changes, it teaches you just one lesson: this women is undergoing all that just to give birth to your baby. Many say that it is a defining moment in a women's life. That could be quite true. And it's not just the nine months and giving birth part but continues through post-birth phase as well. All in all, a really challenging time for a women. It is quite unbelievable in the end when you hold your baby for the first time and think: Did this really come out of there? Just incredible.

Holding my bundle of joy for the first time will always remain my most cherished moment. My wife, with all that she went through over the last 10 months is the greatest thing I have ever seen.

There couldn't be a more appropriate time to let her know how much I respect her for being the women she is and - a caring wife, a supportive friend, a trusted companion, a passionate lover, a smart critique and an ideal life partner. And now, a super-mom! Hats off to you, love.

Travails for a passport

2009-03-12T16:58:00.009+04:00

Getting a passport made in India is the easiest possible thing. Really! And for a new born, even more simple. After all, no police check, no address proof, nothing. All you need is a birth certificate. That's all, right?

Wrong.

My son's passport application is in the works. In order to just complete the application, they require a NOC from me in the form of a sworn affidavit attested by the Indian Embassy in Dubai. In order the apply for the NOC, I needed a bunch of stuff, one of which was that my wife's name has to be attested on my passport. In order to get my wife's name attested on my passport, I needed my marriage certificate to be attested by the Home Department of Maharashtra.

See what I mean!

Anyways, the home department jig is done. Right now, my passport is gone for it's drill. Expecting that on Saturday. Once that is done, then will I finally get my hands on that 'coveted' NOC.

20 days they say for the passport to get delivered. Honestly, I don't trust that number one bit.

Oh, and after the passport is ready, I need to apply for my son's residence visa. But that does not take too long. Couple of days tops.

Guess it is another 4-6 weeks before my wife and son can join me. Alas, the wait continues.

p.s. Did I mention it took 1 month for the birth certificate to be issued? Well, that's another story.

Edited to add:
17-Mar-09: Got my passport yesterday with the endorsement. And this morning, I finally got the sworn affidavit issued by the Indian embassy. Hopefully, the passport application should be submitted today. Fingers 'still' crossed.

Tag of 25

2009-03-10T15:20:00.005+04:00

1. I think this is the most boring tag ever!
2. I was named after my late grand-father. Me born right after he expired.
3. I feel he is watching over me always.
4. Once got my head stuck behind the TV set. And even stapled my own thumb.
5. Always day-dreamt of being the greatest cricketer ever. Imagined hitting a double century in an ODI on debut against Australia in the finals of the world cup with India 5 wickets down for less than 10 runs and winning the game!
6. That never happened.
7. Love this number.
8. Excelled in Athletics though, all the way to the Nationals.
9. Will trade my right arm to meet Roger Federer.
10. Err...only hypothetically!
11. Did I ever do an MBA?
12. Or am I even an engineer?
13. Joined Oracle just because it sounds cool and was in Bangalore.
14. I still miss Bangalore
15. Miss my wife and 6 week old son.
16. Love my parents and family.
17. I drive a Benz E230. Want a Lexus IS300 or BMW X5 or both.
18. This tag is long.
19. I miss my best friend.
20. I totally, completely, absolutely, hate bhindi and baingan.
21. Money is not the root of all evil.
22. I love food.
23. I love movies.
24. I love perfumes.
25. Date on which I got married.

I'm not tagging anyone. Almost everyone I know has attempted this. So open invitation for whoever dares to attempt it. Just let me know once it is done. Cheers.

That moment....

2009-03-06T10:20:00.007+04:00

At this lovely captured moment in my life I had wished I was a kid again....

05-Mar-09, 9:22 PM

....seeing those kids jump down that air-filled slide!!!

What are those kids thinking of?

Project deadline? Targets? Performance appraisal? Traffic? Weight loss? Recession? Money? Investments? Family? Marriage? Heartbreaks? Moving houses? Rama Sena? Politics? Global warming?

Bet, at that instant, all they freakin cared off was to jump as hard and as fast as they possibly can down that slide! What a life! :)

I wish.... (sigh)

On failing driving tests in UAE

2009-03-03T17:37:00.005+04:00

To the person who got here with this query:

"i failed my driving test in uae"

I feel sorry for this guy/girl. Really really really know how it feels. And I can tell you it's not good. Anyone who stays in UAE will know how important it is to own a car here. Public transport system is appalling. Taxis charge a bomb. Metro is far from over. Car lifts are not allowed. Walking is out of the question due to the long distances between places. So what are the options? Frankly, not many. And thus owning a car is almost your only resort And with so much traffic on roads these days, licenses are not being issued generously. RTA thinks that's the way to reduce traffic problems! And appearing for driving tests is by no means cheap. Digs a BIG hole in your pocket. But it's gotta be done! It's a necessary evil.

So hang in there, Mr./Ms. I know it is tough but surely possible. Good luck for your next test. Cheers.

Of Dogs, Century and Work times

2009-02-27T10:34:00.006+04:00

While driving back home last evening:

Me: Hey, guess what? I saw a dog today!!!! Ain't that something?!?
Bro: I saw two the other day!
Me: Whhaaat??!!??
Bro: Yeah, can you believe it?!
Me: Noooohhh! Lucky you. The blessed one.
Bro: I beat you at it.
Me: Don't rub it in.
Bro: (After a few seconds) What are you thinking?!
Me: About my next blog post (smiling wryly)

....which also happens to be my 100th post. That's 100 posts in 1 year and 4 months of blogging. That's 1 post every 4.87 days. I never blog on weekends. So that's one post every work week. Not a pretty bad average I guess. Work reminds me....

Last Tuesday I had the most optimized work day. The expected in-time at my work is 9.30 am with 15 min grace so effectively that's 9.45! Expected out-time is 6 pm. On Tuesday my entry-exit log read:

In-time: 09:44:38 AM and Out-time: 18:01:12 PM

I've had several 9.45 ins and several 6pm outs. But never on the same day! I always thought the best possible combination is to get in 1 min before time and out 1 min after time. And coincidentally last Tuesday was the first time that happened. Which takes me to another point....

I think no one should work beyond their stipulated work hours. At my last job, leaving on time was almost like a CLM (Career Limiting Move). It was a taboo. Colleagues spoke about it behind your back. Managers gave sarcastic comments. Even the cab drivers stared at you. You almost wished to be invisible. Leaving work on time would require maneuvering. (Guys, I'm going to take a bio break (or smoke break or a quick snack). Anyone coming?). And you walk towards the rest room (or the balcony or the pantry) and then quietly slip out.

But it was my first job; full of energy; all guns blazing; out to prove to the corporate world that the next big thing has arrived. So it hardly ever mattered. I've stayed back at work even upto 7-8 hours. Overtime was not part of the package. So never got paid for it.

Thankfully, my current job has no such 'culture'. People come on time and leave on time. Period. And so do I. Work never requires me to stay 15 min more than my time. Guess I learnt a bit of time management as well. And I almost never work from home. Have 8.5 hrs to do my job and I make sure my job gets done in that time. Work should be at work. It should never take up your personal time.

Ofcourse if you get paid to work late, that's a different thing! Go, dog...err...Tiger!

(p.s.: For the record, you never see a stray dog in UAE)

Random rantings - 1

2009-02-20T16:45:00.005+04:00

Ever get that feeling when you know you have it all yet you also know it's incomplete? Or like not having any reasons to complain but still feel like complaining.

Feeling something like that today.

I'm really tired. And sleepy. Have headache and that nagging backache due too long hours behind the wheel. Still haven't recovered from flu and my antibiotics are over. I am overweight. And I need to see a dentist! (Groan). Health has taken such a backseat in my life that someday I think I might just drop dead.

Work front is OK but I hate spending close to three hours commuting daily! Sucks

The wife and kiddo are OK but I hate being away from them for so long! Sucks

I start with Atkins tomorrow. That sucks too.

I stood up my friends today. Has happened for the first time ever. This after I had booked the movie tickets myself. BIG sucks.

Phone at my desk doesn't work. The watchman did not wash my car today. I want to change the curtains in my room. The kiddo's birth certificate (required for his passport which is in-turn required for his visa) is taking forever to come. I need to start working out or play some cricket or tennis.

Whoever said I had no reasons to complain?!?

Passionné par les parfums

2009-02-17T10:04:00.006+04:00

Very few things in life that I am really passionate about. One of 'em is perfumes. There is no measure about how much I absolutely dig good perfumes. Every time I step into a departmental store or a mall or duty free, by default I get dragged to the perfume section checking out the latest testers. I make notes on which I like and hope to add to my collection. Ah, by 'collection' don't get wrong ideas. I have a rather modest collection. But am determined to increase it moving forward.

I think a good fragrance is like a person's identity. And careful consideration should be taken before selecting one. Not just pick something that smells good but check if that fragrance goes with your overall personality. I'm no expert on personality traits neither on perfumes but, little that I can understand, I try and keep these aspects in mind before selecting one.

And hence it does not take a genius to figure out that the gifts I've given out most often are perfumes. I know what fragrances go best on me. There's not much left to uncover actually. So what's the next best way to keep this passion rolling?! Buy for others! :)

I don't remember when this started. Back in college, all that mattered was a good deo. And Adidas was a clear winner then. I did have a large collection of deos though but again, they were purchased mostly on offers or bulk and they were cheap. No passion per se. When I got to b-school, my bro bought me my first real one. He took me into this store, walked to the perfume section and asked me to go crazy! Imagine my excitement!!! After almost an hour, I finally picked up Baldesarini from Hugo Boss. It was my most prized possession - A Hugo Boss perfume! I still have it :)

As I got to my first job and more financial independence, which I think was the key, the passion really kicked in: Dunhill Desire Blue, Davidoff Deep, Remy Marquis, Eternity by CK, Gio by Armani, Euphoria by CK & Davidoff Echo. Next on my desirables list is Bvlgari Soir, Ferrari Black and Dior Homme.

This is one passion I wish to continue pursuing in the future. Ofcourse, provided Oracle keeps rolling out those commission cheques! ;)

SAY NO TO DOWRY

2009-02-11T11:41:00.009+04:00

'Dowry', as it is known in India, is one of the oldest prevailing so-called 'customs' of our great country. This country, which in the 21st century, is arguably one of the most powerful on the planet, largest democracy and stated to become one of the largest economies in the world some day! Yet, we still haven't got rid of dowry, amongst others.

What exactly is dowry? As stated by a friend on her blog (which by the way is the inspiration behind this post), it is the price of a groom. Period. The bride's family is forced into buying a match for their girl. How cool is that! What is most disturbing is the fact that these dowry demanders are none other than today's bloody youth. Family pressure they say. How can an educated, twenty something male of today's India succumb to that. Why can't they oppose it? What are they risking? Will they not get married if they don't take dowry? Will their families, cast or community boycott them? What is the fuckin problem?!?

Is money the problem? Go fuckin earn it, jackass! Why beg? And if that's what you really wanna do, go hit the streets loser. It's a thriving job for sure. What's the difference between asking for dowry and begging anyway. All the same.

I know of many people, personally and by acquaintances, who have demanded and/or accepted dowry. Isn't the bride's family already giving away their girl to you? First, they give away their girl. Second, they end up paying off their asses for it. And thirdly, that's not the end of it. Repeat demands and if, unfortunately, they are not fulfilled, I can only imagine the hell she has to face by her in-laws.

What is wrong with our fuckin society? Why can't we put an end to this? All hell broke loose when women were beaten up by those rama sena goons in Mangalore. India's youth stood up and made their voices heard. There are campaigns in place to oppose it. But is anyone doing anything about the dowry system?

I proudly state that I did not demand any dowry when I got married. Nor did anyone else from my family. And nor did I give my sister to a dowry demander. I strongly condemn it. I'd just like to ask one question to these dowry demanders. When you put a price tag on your boy, does this mean that your boy is worth that 'x' amount of money only? Can we so easily decide what your boy is worth? How do you decide the price then? For instance, if I am to sell a commodity, I take the cost of raw material, manufacturing costs, labor charges, transporting cost, taxes and then a profit margin. Do you decide your dowry this way? I bet you do! Then why not just put an ad in the paper and sell him off to the highest bidder?

Some families voluntarily give dowry (gifts/jewelery/cash etc) with their girl. Nothing wrong with that. It's their girl and they decide what they wanna give. It's up to them. Resist but, if they insist strongly, respect that.

Others argue that since they paid dowry for their girl, they will demand dowry for their boy. Well, in that case, if someone robs you, do you go and rob someone else? Or if someone jumps off a building, would you do the same? Eye for an eye, eh? Jokers!

It's about time that we put a stop to this. There is awareness for sure; news reports on some one-off cases where the girl refuses to marry the guy and reported his family to cops. But more needs to be done. Guys/Boys/Men/whatever, please put your foot down. You are the one who is getting married. Not your families. You guys are educated. You are the future of this country. Respect that. Honor that.

PLEASE SAY NO TO DOWRY!

(I write this because one of my friends was asked for dowry recently. She refused the marriage proposal. Kudos to her)

What a welcome! :)

2009-02-06T14:40:00.008+04:00

I had taken 3 weeks off for my wife's delivery in Jan. This, at a time, when going on vacation or leave might result in a memo from the management asking you not to come back ever! So in that context, I think my boss is really cool. And that too after giving me 12 days off in December as well. Does the fact that I hit my annual sales target in December matter? For argumentative sake, let's just ignore that for the time being! ;)

And was it hard for me to leave my new born baby and wife behind and come back to work? Hell, Yes! How on earth was I supposed to concentrate on work? How would I feel when I sat at my desk?

This is what awaited me when I got to my desk.

Balloons, a big teddy bear, candles, chocolates, sweets, a baby record book, wind chime, small baby porcelain boy, funny messages posted on my cubicle walls, message saying 'Welcome Ibrahim' and a card signed by the whole team - everything in BLUE! And to top it all up, everyone was dressed in blue as well. Here are some more snaps of my desk

It was just unbelievable. My team had spent a large portion of Friday making arrangements. It was perfect. There couldn't have been any other way that I'd have liked to get back to work with. It raised my spirits. Felt so much at home. I was amongst a team where human emotions mattered. We are not working at a sweatshop. They were there to share my happiness and welcome me. I felt happy when I could have felt sad, lonely and depressed. It was so overwhelming that I almost cried. To me, this is a TEAM. And I am proud to be part of it.

Later found out that it was my boss's idea and another member of my team. But in the end, everyone helped set things up. I've been raving about this to whoever I find. Surprisingly its taken me four days to blog about.

A day in the life of Ibrahim

2009-02-02T16:55:00.003+04:00

This is what a typical day looks like in the life of little Ibrahim (and thus his parents too!)

12 am: Sweet sound sleep (ZZZ)
Cycle 1 start:
12.30 am: Hungry baby wakes up crying. Feeding time.
12.45 am: Burp burp
1.00 am: Hic hic hic (hiccups)
1.10 am: Potty time! Nappy change.
1.25 am: Potty again. Nappy change again.
1.30 am: Hungry baby again. Quick feed.
1.40 am: ZZZ
Cycle 1 end.
4.00 am: Repeat cycle 1.
8.00 am: Repeat cycle 1 but no ZZZ
9.00 am: Play time with momma and yaba (Arabic word for Papa)
10.00 am: Quick feed and ZZZ
12.00 pm: Potty time. Su-su on yaba. Nappy change.
12.30 pm: Massage time followed by sponge bath.
1.00 pm: Change of clothes and play time.
1.30 pm: Tired hungry baby. Feeding time.
1.45 pm: Burp burp. ZZZ
4.00 pm: Hungry baby. Potty time. Total chaos. All hell breaks loose.
4.45 pm: Finally ZZZ
7.00 pm: Repeat cycle 1.
9.30 pm: Repeat cycle 1.
12.30 am: Repeat cycle 1.

With able assistance from Ibrahim's:
1. Naani (Maternal grand mother)
2. Daadi mummy (Paternal grand mother)
3. Mamujaan (His mother's elber bro)
4. Khala (His mother's younger sis)
5. Nanujaan (Maternal grand father)
6. Phu (His father's younger sis)
7. And others

It's a BOY :-)

2009-01-25T16:30:00.003+04:00

Phew! The last few days have been absolutely unbelievable. Life has changed. I have changed. Have experienced something so unique, so special that no other feeling will ever come in the same vicinity as that.

I've become a father!!! My wife delivered a healthy baby boy on 20th Jan 09. After 9 months of anticipation, patience, hope, wait and excitement, it happened. And I am still to come to terms with it.

Every day is a new experience. Every expression of my baby boy is a new story. It's been out-of-this-world. The first time I held him on my arms - oh boy, if only I could describe that feeling in words! His first yawn, first burp, first time his tiny fingers wrapped around my little finger, his first potty, his first smile, his first expression, his first cry - just mind-blowing experience. No other feeling can ever be this pleasant and memorable.

I've been blessed infinitely by the Almighty. Today all I wish for is a lifetime of happiness, contentment, spiritual peace and fulfillment for my baby boy. May Allah always be with him and shower his blessings on my Ibrahim. Ameen.

Life and Death

2009-01-14T20:49:00.003+04:00

I’m sitting in the Jet airways waiting lounge at Mumbai domestic airport. Still have another 20 minutes before my boarding starts. It’s been a tough day coz I saw something for the first time in my life. And it was not pleasant. Scared the living daylights out of me. I saw a man dying today!

Just as I got through immigration at Dubai airport, there was some commotion a few yards from where I was standing. I walked to see what was happening. A man was on the floor, hand on his chest, legs and body shaking, desperately gasping for breath. Someone took off his shirt and made him lie flat on his back. Paramedics arrived immediately. He was given an oxygen mask which he kept taking off trying to breathe. And then they stuck some wires on his chest near the heart. I don’t know what they did next as I could not stand and look any more. I’d had enough. The man had suffered a massive heart attack. He was minutes away from death. Not sure if he made it through. Not sure if his family were ever going to see him alive again.

Death is the harshest reality of life. We take life so much for granted that we may not be prepared for the dreaded D looming round the corner. I’ve lost a few friends in my life. I lost one to cancer at the age of 17, and two to separate road accidents during college. These experiences have thought me to appreciate life like never before. Any day could be our last. Live life like there is no tomorrow but always have plans ready for the day after!

So here’s to our good health, love from family & friends, and fulfillment in life. Amen.

Peace.

(I wrote this on 10th Jan but could not post it. Finally got an internet connection today. And FYI - I am in India for three weeks)

Oracle licensing explained (by my bro)

2009-01-08T10:29:00.011+04:00

I work for a company that sells software. Our flagship product is the Database. Licensing a database is a little complicated (as perceived by our customers!). This is how it's done.

We take the hardware specs of the server on which is database is to be installed i.e. number of processors, number of cores & the brand of CPU. The calculation is done as follows:

(number of processors) x (number of cores) x (licensing factors)

where,
1. factors depend on the brand of CPU i.e. Intel, AMD, UltraSPARC etc.
2. user minimums & number of sockets to be taken into consideration depending on the database edition.

Last week, my brother (who heads the Infrastructure and DCO Division at Panasonic) wanted some Oracle database licensing options for a new project he is undertaking. I explained the licensing model to him and how the calculation is done.

Yesterday on our way to work, we had the following conversation:

Me: Hey, what about those database licenses you inquired about?
Bro: Oh yes, do you know how Oracle is licensed on virtual servers?
Me: Hmm...I'll have to look that up. Haven't come across any such requirements yet.
Bro: Yeah. Let me know. Probably, we'll need to take the square root of the inverse of the processors, then take factors and integrate it and take the third derivative of the limit of the function at infinity, differentiate it and do a Fourier transform of that!!!!!

LOL

Edited to add: If anyone has any questions on Oracle licensing, please leave a comment on my other blog: http://logicalobscurity.wordpress.com. Thanks.

Main Kab Saas Banungi

2009-01-06T10:18:00.003+04:00

Misleading title, isn't it? Don't worry. I am not that desperate. Definitely not to be a 'saas' (mother-in-law). So am I then going through a mid-life identity crisis? Nope. Well...

Main Kab Saas Banungi (MKSB) is a show currently televised on Sab TV. Now, why would I even bother to know the existence of said serial, specially with the word 'saas' in it? As if the 'K's were already not enough! Well, last evening, after I got back home, I turned on the TV and was onto my usual channel surfing, when my mom walked in the living room and asked me to switch to Sab TV. That's my cue to hand her the remote and get my ass out of there! But I decided to stay on. I wanted to find out why millions are hooked onto these endless, useless, senseless saas-bahu sagas. (For the record, my mom is not one of them!)

And I was in for a pleasant shock! MKSB was nothing like the dreaded Ks. This is one hell of a funny comedy series on the relationship between three generations of saas and bahus. No backbiting, no vamps, no scheming, no revenge, no extra marital affairs, no coming-back-from-the-dead stunts, no rebirths, no dramatics, no crap, no no.

On the contrary, this show encourages family values. The bonding between saas and bahus is represented in loving yet mischievous & comic ways. Brings to fact that all saas-bahu relationships are not strained. There are happy families out there who are living amicably together. This series shows the positive side of the relationship. And is funny.

Much needed refreshing change from the utterly disgusting shows that run on national television at prime time. Hats off to Deepti Bhatnagar for coming out with this concept. We need more of this than the K trash by that Ekta whatever.

I don't promise to follow MKSB regularly. More of a HBO-ESPN kinda guy. But wouldn't mind switching to Sab TV every now and then.

What a start

2009-01-05T11:04:00.003+04:00

A 'new' year, as the word new implies, is supposed to be...err..new! A new beginning full of new hopes, new dreams and promises of something better.....or worse?

My new year started like any other day or month or year. But it was on the 2nd day of this year that had some excitement in store.

It was 6.40 am and I was obviously sound asleep. I woke up at some voices. There was someone in my room. It was my brother. So deep in slumber was I that instead of asking him if he needed something, I ended up asking, "What are you doing here?". Rude. That moment my sis from the living room yelled out, ' Check out. Someone finally woke up!". Are these guys crazy? It's a weekend for Christ's sake. I could hear my dad and mom as well. I live in a zoo. Period.

Someone then asked me to touch the floor. Zoo for sure!!! They ask again. What the hell. I give up. And reach down for the floor. My hand gets submerged in water. Entirely! Oops. Did I start sleepwalking? What was I doing in my bathroom?

I look around. This is my room. Quickly, I sit up and look around the room and there was water everywhere. Our entire house was completely filled up with water. Not an inch of dry space. Apparently, a pipe burst in the bathroom and it flooded the house. All hands were on 'deck' clearing the water. I pulled up my pajamas and joined the war cry.

"Zor lagage ke, haisha,
Jeetenge hum, haisha"

Took us close to 6 hrs just to get rid of the flowing water. It's gonna take days to dry up completely. My room was the worst affected. Our flat apparently, and thanks to the masons, is sloped backwards towards the right, where my room is located. It's a disaster. We had to dismantle the entire bedroom set and take it out. Thoughts of discarding the (so called new) carpet came to mind but then we thought of giving it a shampoo first and checking it out. Had the shampoo guys over yesterday. They actually had to give the final shampoo with dettol to get rid of the water smell. Assured us 90% dryness. We are waiting for it to completely dry before moving back the furniture. Our new Persian rug is lying outside the flat. Not sure what the hell are we supposed to do with it. All electric connections & electronic appliances are dead (except the wi-fi which we managed to keep running! :P). All in all, right now, our house is in tatters and stinking. And I don't have a room!

What a start to the year!

5000 hits

2008-12-29T13:54:00.002+04:00

This blog, these 'logically obscure' thoughts, rantings or musings, has hit its 2nd big milestone: 5000 hits!

Thank you, one and all, for making this possible. Keep checking in.

Cheers.

Mallu Discount

2008-12-26T10:56:00.002+04:00

We coined this new term yesterday. No offense to all the mallus out there but just couldn't help ourselves. Come stay in the gulf and you'll know what I mean.

Anyways, we (me and Amit) went to watch Ghajini last night. Decent-to-good movie I'd say despite the whole world going gaga over the movie and Aamer's performance. Why I say this is because of the so-called 'Mallu Discount' factor. So what is Mallu Discount?

Mallu Discount is nothing but the South factor. Let me explain. Indian cinema defies logic - all genres inclusive. Even the most realistic of movies seem to make no sense at times. There are exceptions but I am speaking of the vast overwhelming majority. Singing & dancing around trees, fight scenes, romance, acting (read: overacting), larger-than-life characters, item numbers, cleavage & finally climax (no, not that one!) - these are all the essential elements of Indian movies. Put this all together and you have a masala bollywood flick. Multiply this by a factor of 10 and you have a masala 'south' movie (Pot-bellied actors added to the list!). This south factor is what I call 'The Mallu Discount".

So while watching Aamer pull off some absolutely nonsensical stunts last night, I turned to Amit and frustratingly remarked, "Kya horaha hai yeh sab? Kuch bhi kya!" (What's all this? Anything?) And in his typical quick wit he replies, "Chod na yaar. South ki picture ka remake hai. Mallu discount de de!" (Let it be. Remake of a South movie. Give some mallu discount!).

We both burst out laughing. The movie suddenly became more tolerable to the extent that I ended up saying to my bro, who had tickets for the next show, that it was a decent movie. Definitely worth a watch.

Mallu discount helps.

It's been four years

2008-12-18T15:21:00.005+04:00

Can't believe it's been 4 years. Really? Has it been that long? Looks like it all happened yesterday.

Four years ago, today, I got recruited by Oracle through campus placements. This day does not sound so significant but try telling that to a budding MBA pass-out appearing for his first real job interview! It was huge. It's one of those days that somehow just got stuck in my memory. One of those days that I could finally look up to the skies and say, "Yes, I have done it".

I still remember that day. It was cold, so cold and foggy that when I thought I reached Oberoi Hotel, I could see nothing. Not even the gate. Upon asking, was told I was standing right in front of that gate. All this at 7.30am in the morning, all suited up, on a bike, at the peak of Delhi winters. That was something! I thought my brain would freeze. Brrr. Not to forget, after watching a movie (Swades) till 2.30 am at PVR Priya the night before.

Yeah! So Oracle had taken telephonic interviews of candidates from 10-15 B-Schools over 2 weeks across NCR and had asked about 32 of us to appear for personal interview. Little did I know that a simple sounding 'personal interview' was not even the appetizers.

After registration and breakfast, we were asked to be seated as 2 separate groups randomly. And then we were made to strip! (Just kidding! Wanted to see if you guys are paying attention). So with the 2 groups ready, we were then made to do several team building exercises. This went on for more than 3 hours. I still remember all those activities. For one activity, they made us all sit in a semi-circle and blindfolded us. We were then handed some abstract object. And were supposed to identify who else has that exact same object - all this blindfolded and seated with the moderator sitting right in front observing our each and every move. Phew! Then this other activity, they made all 32 of us stand in a large circle. Every guy/girl was made to say his/her name. And then, this is the bizarre part, each one of us were supposed to repeat all the 32 names. I did manage 27 though. Anyways, all this went on till lunch. Post lunch was going to be our interview.

Round 1. I thought I'd be kicked out right then and there. Mysteriously, they called me for Round 2, which was much better. Followed by Round 3. And then they informed us that they've come up with the first cut. 16 were shortlisted and were going to be further interviewed. I had already packed my bag. Was thinking about dinner and which movie we'd watch later that night. And, poof, they called out my name. So, I was shortlisted. Great. Now that really freaked me out. Coz now I was this close to getting through and loosing out would really really really suck. So it was time for Round 4. This time with the senior management. It went OK. Round 5 was with Head of Recruitment. Basic irritating HR questions. Finally Round 6 was with the Director. He asked me just 3 questions:

Director: Are you ready to relocate to Bangalore?
Me: Yes. I can take the evening flight if you want me to.
Director: Have you been to Bangalore?
Me: I will, tonight, if you hire me.
Director: So, you think you are hired?
Me: Yes. I would like to think so.
Director: Thank you, Masood. (Got up and shook my hands). See you in Bangalore.

It still hadn't sunk it. It was too good to be true. Interview with the Director or Round 6 was taking atleast 15 minutes per candidate. Supposed to be the toughest. And here I was, out in 30 seconds. There has to be something wrong.

It was 7.15 pm in the evening. Close to 12 hours since I got there. Finally, the moment of truth. They were announcing names of selected candidates alphabetically. That's the first time I ever cursed myself for not having a name with 'A'. Seven names were called out. And number 8 was a certain 'Masood Salem'. All I could do was smile meekly and slowly clap. Was too exhausted for any other emotion. Only 9 were selected. Once it sank it, tears followed. I called my dad. And my brother. Other calls starting coming in. It was all happening. Laughter, tears, excitement, fear, hope, dreams fulfilled, new dreams, all at the same time.

It was one of the most satisfying and fulfilling days of my life. That day, I became somebody. I achieved something. I was going somewhere. My journey had begun.

BUSHoes

2008-12-16T12:13:00.006+04:00

This incident had me in side-splitting laughter. At the end of 8 years in office, there couldn't have been a more better farewell for this joke of a president. Oh, why didn't the shoes hit him? Why! Why! Why!

"This is a farewell kiss, you dog. This is from the widows, the orphans and those who were killed in Iraq." - This is what the Iraqi journalist, Muntadar al-Zeidi, yelled before insulting, arguably and laughingly, the most powerful man on the planet.

How does America react to this? Does it ban shoes in press conferences? Or will it now provide training on how to dodge shoes? Or, better yet, how to pick them up and throw it back? Didn't the SS expect this? Oh, they didn't?! Where is their ground-breaking, state of art intelligence now?

The president of America, the leader of the new world, commander-in-chief of the most powerful army in the world, all this and more. And this is the kind of treatment he gets?

There couldn't have been a more degrading, insulting, debasing, cheapening thing than this for the man. And thoroughly well deserved.

And a small note for Mr. Obama: Boy, you have some pretty lofty 'shoes' to fill in, eh? ;)

Travel, Work & Award

2008-12-11T13:28:00.006+04:00

I am back to work today after a short 'working' vacation. Yes, I am a sucker at this. Not one day went by with me not checking or answering my email, prepare proposals for clients or get into conference calls. Somehow, and thanks to Murphy's law for this, I feel that all my clients or team or my manager needs me or my assistance while I'm away. So be it. Here I was in the process of closing serious business, while having home-made Gulab Jamuns and mouth-watering mutton biryani at my in-laws. Such is life. But no complaints. I love every minute of it.

And so it was a pleasant surprise to find an award waiting for me when I got back. No no, not for my work silly, but, yes, for my blog! My first. I am honored. And who else but Iya to hand me this one.

It is called the Butterfly Award. And I am so proud to have it on my blog. So thanks a lot, Iya, for giving me this honor. I am ecstatic.

Now, I don't know if we are supposed to pass this on or simply bask in its glory. But if I have to, I'd like to give it to Iya again. (Can we even do this? Re-award someone! If not, then let this be a first too)
I'd also like to give this to Priyanka whose blog is the reason why I have a blog today.
And lastly, but definitely not the least, to Tara who has a lovely carefree way of writing.

I feel good.

I met Shaheen today

2008-12-05T01:42:00.004+04:00

It is 3.15 am and I am unable to sleep. The reason for this is because I met Shaheen (name changed) today. Let me tell you about her.

Shaheen is 25 years old, married for 8 months and, if I am not wrong, is pregnant. She was originally based out of a small district close to Hyderabad called Nizamabad. She is beautiful, energetic, has a sharp sense of humor and is a wonderful human being. She is religious and believes in the oneness of God. She has 1 elder sister and 1 younger brother. A loving husband and in-laws. She was currently living in Mumbai.

I met her today at her 'Dusvan' (Tenth). Exactly 10 days from today, she was one of the 200 odd victims killed in the Mumbai terror attacks. I spent 3 hours at her house with her family and relatives mourning her death. Her husband is still admitted in J J Hospital with 4 bullet wounds.

Shaheen died saving a 4 year old girl. When the gun fire broke out, the little girl ran towards the noise thinking they are firecrackers bursting close by. Shaheen ran behind the little girl and managed to pull her to the ground but not before a bullet went right through her neck. She was dead on the spot.

I have never met Shaheen before. I never knew her or her family before today. But I felt compelled to give her a visit to offer my prayers for her soul and my condolences to her family.

What kind of justice is this? Why did Shaheen have to die? What was her fault? That she was trying to save a little girl? or that she was present at that very train station at that ill-fated time? Why is she not with us today? Didn't she have a right to live, to have her babies, to see them grow old, to grow old herself?

Terrorism is not permitted in Islam. Killing innocent people is not permitted in Islam. These so called Jihadis or Islamic fighters (Not sure if they really are the ones behind this because I seriously doubt it) are going against the very principle of the religion - 'Peace'. They don't even know who all they killed - Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Jews? Could they differentiate? Which religion permits you to kill innocent people? For sure, Islam does not.

Innocent people died last week for no reason at all. I was with the family of one such victim today. I am never going to forget this night. She is a hero - a real unsung hero. May her soul rest in peace. Amen.

Mumbai Attacks and Politics

2008-12-02T16:52:00.007+04:00

The Mumbai terror attacks, despite being tragic for all those who lost their lives, also stinks. It stinks of a very large political scandal that seems to overshadow all the obvious evidences (read: planted evidences). There has to be more to this story that just a handful of 20 year olds walking into Mumbai and wrecking havoc. Doesn't it sound too naive?

Or is it just a coincidence that the men who was on the verge of uncovering the real masterminds behind the Malegaon blasts gets martyred (read: ASSASSINATED). For the first time, we had some evidence of political motives and politicians behind attacks and not just Islamic fundamentalists or Jihadis. Who were they going to unmask? But it's all lost now. Is anyone talking about Malegaon now?

So who was really behind these attacks? Yes, the LET did this. But who 'sponsored' them? Some evidence points to the Musad due to attacks on Jews. Could be possible? But if it was Musad, wouldn't the terrorists have completely wiped out Nariman House? Why is it that the terrorists kept hostages and did not come up with a single demand? Couldn't they have traded the lives of the hostages with their own? Why didn't they even try? And why is it that only 1 terrorist was 'left' alive? Obviously, they needed someone to tell the story. And here is a pic of the guy 'they' left alive.

Look closely. See any thing similar in these two pictures? Just an observation but worth a thought. The second snap was taken during the Godhra aftermaths.

I think Nariman House was just a divert. Likewise for all other places. Their main targets were Hemant Karkare, Ashok Kale and Vijay Salazar amongst others. The motive was to prove the inefficiencies of the central government and to make terrorism the main subject of the next elections. The idea was to scare the hell out of every Indian and, in the process, save their asses. I think this plot was hatched in India, by Indian politicians and for political motives. The timing couldn't be better, isn't it? Or is all this again just a coincidence?

Do we want another war? Hell, NO! But where is all this pointing to? Who are going to be worst affected? India and Indian citizens. Hindus and Muslims alike. At what cost? And for what reason? For one political party trying to topple another and come to power. What are they going to promise this time? Education for all, better healthcare, lower taxes, better foreign policy, greener India, more jobs? I bet it's gonna be none of this.

This is politics and it stinks.

Also read what fellow blogger Priyanka wrote on the same subject. I couldn't agree more.
http://acaseofme.blogspot.com/2008/11/dont-listen-to-me-im-just-citizen.html

India calling

2008-11-28T15:26:00.002+04:00

I'm flying off to India tonight for 10 days! Just taking some time off from work and see the wife.

Don't think I'll get much time to blog. I wanted to post some stuff on Mumbai but shortage of time got the better of me. I will do so but later. My heart goes out to the families of all those who lost their lives due to these senseless terror attacks. I wish we could undo all this. I wish.

I was supposed to fly via Mumbai but got my flight rescheduled via Hyderabad.

See you in a bit. Peace!

Mamta vs Obama

2008-11-24T15:07:00.004+04:00

Mamta Banerjee has said that she is the Obama of India!

(Silence)

(More silence and trying to keep a straight face)

Couldn't hold it any longer and I burst out laughing! This was was most hilarious piece of news I've heard since Obama got elected or even since the day he decided to run for office.

Mamta Banerjee comparing herself with Barack Obama.

(Another bout of hysterical laugher)

What are these freakin politicians thinking? Or do they even think? Clearly, they don't. But that's a well known fact. So what made this lady call herself the Obama of India? (I still can't take that smirk off my face) And what more, who all believed her? I am prepared to be shocked. After this, I think I can take anything!

Not to be one-sided, isn't it too early for any comparisons? I mean, Obama has not even taken office yet. He has just promised. Only time will tell. Can he really open 2.5 million jobs next year or in the next 2 years? Will he take troops out of Iraq and Afghanistan? On education (No-child-left-behind reform and cheaper education), Environment (Investments in alternative fuels, reduced dependence on Middle East oil, More green jobs etc), Healthcare (Put things back together from the tatters left by the Bush administration), Taxes (Proposed tax cut and tax relief) and Women (His proposed policies against women inequalities)? Is he going to live up to all this?

It's all too early to tell. As for Mrs. Banerjee, I'd really be interested to learn how she plans to be the Indian Obama!!!

Believe it or not

2008-11-22T19:36:00.004+04:00

If I say that I lost 8 kg in 30 days, how many of you are going to believe me? Believe it or not, it is true. 30 days of diet control, brisk exercise and lots of drinking water and here I am - 8 kg lighter.

But coming to the more serious part, why did I have to loose that much weight? That's coz I was, not 8 but actually 18 kg over weight!!! I swear! I know, my height hides most of the weight but according to my BMI, I need to be atleast 18 kg lighter. Thanks to my post-marriage laziness, ice-cream-doughnuts-muffins-desserts indulgence, culinary skills of folks at home and, ofcourse, the KFCs and Burger Kings of the world!

So, with 2 inches off the waist and 8 kg lighter, let me tell you how it feels! It feels like a job half done. Boo. Yes, don't want to rest on my laurels now. We are on a roll, people!

Finally, I can hope of fitting in that CK trouser. Finally!

I will check back again in 30 days with another update. Oh, and how did I do it? Atkins baby, Atkins! (www.atkins.com)

Peace.

Tumse he

2008-11-21T10:40:00.008+04:00

Na hai yeh paana
Na khona he hai
Tera na hona jaane
Kyun hona he hai
Tumse he din hota hai
Surmayi shaam aati hai
Tumse he tumse he

Har ghadi saans aati hai
Zindagi kehlati hai
Tum se he tum se he
Na hai yeh paana
Na khona he hai
Tera na hona jaane
Kyun hona he hai

Aankhon mein ankhen teri
Bahoon mein baahein teri
Mera na mujhme kuch raha hua kya
Baaton mein baatein teri
Raatein saugatein teri
Kyun tera sab yeh ho gaya hua kya
Mein kahin bhi jata hoon
Tumse he mil jata hoon
Tumse he tumse he
Shor mein khamoshi hai
Thodi se behoshi hai
Tumse he tumse he

Aadha sa wada kabhi
Aadhe se zayada kabhi
Je chahe karlun iss tarah wafa ka
Chode na chote kabhi
Tode na toote kabhi
Jo dhaga tumse jud gaya wafa ka
Mein tera sarmaya hoon
Jo bhi mein ban paya hoon
Tumse he tumse he
Raste miljate hai
Manzile miljati hai
Tumse he tumse he

Na hai yeh paana
Na khona he hai
Tera na hona jaane
Kyun hona he hai.

Lyrics by Irshad Kamil. Music by Pritam.

Dedicated to my wife! :)

How I met John Grisham

2008-11-18T12:05:00.004+04:00

My fascination for John Grisham's work started when I first read 'The Partner'. This was way back in 1998.

Books were an unchartered territory for me then. All I'd ever read was Archie comics, Enid Blyton short stories, Hardy Boys, Secret Seven, you know what I mean. Real mainstream fiction did not exist in my world. My world did not have place for anything else. Then I stumbled upon a copy of 'The Partner'. My brother had just finished reading it and couldn't stop raving about it. First reaction on seeing a 416 page novel - like hell I'm gonna read this! It was lying around for a week. I always heard him say that a book is a whole new world. Always got me thinking: What world is he talking about?

"They found him in Ponta Porp, a pleasant little town in Brazil, on the border of Paraguay, in a land still known as the Frontier. They found him alone, as best they could tell, though a maid came and went at odd hours during the eight days they hid and watched."

Woah! That opening hit me like a thunderbolt. Who found who? Why were they searching for him? Why was he hiding? Or was he hiding? Did he know they were there? What did they want?

And thus began my amazing journey living the lives of fictional characters created by Grisham. All characters are etched in my memory as if they are a part of me now. Or maybe I am a part of them. I was lost in Grisham's world. Nothing else mattered. He could take you to places you will never go to, meet people you will never meet, do things you will never do and live the life you may never live! How about being a gay American senator lined up for the top job at the white house and have 3 former supreme court judges know your secret? Or how about being that rookie lawyer who fights and wins the lawsuit of a lifetime? Or how about being that jury member who can manipulate an entire jury and deliver whatever verdict you want but only at a price? Or how about trying to save a man on an electric chair? Or how about defending a black client who is on trial for the murder of 2 rednecks who had raped his 7 yr old daughter? Or how about having someone buy you a judge seat in the supreme court? Or how about writing a report that could implicate the whose who of American legislature and then run for your life?

There is more. But I cannot finish. I can only get started. And then the mind takes over.

Before and After

2008-11-15T10:26:00.005+04:00

Friday is a public holiday here in UAE. I go to work on Friday and take Sunday off. Since it is a holiday, I don't have any arrangement to travel. This is what I did to get to work for more than a year on a Friday, before I got my driving license.

Before:

7.15 am: Wake up on yet another Friday morning.
7.50 am: Catch a cab from my appartment to the bus stand.
8.00 am: Board the bus or shared taxi to Dubai.
9.20 am: As we approach Dubai Internet City (my office), I ask the driver to drop me off on the highway.
9.22 am: Either wait for a cab or start walking into the underpass that helps me cross the road. No pedestrian crossing. Have to walk along the road for 20 min.
9.45 am: Login in work.
12. 00 pm. Friday prayers. No cabs at this time around this area. Start walking from office for 2 km to the closest Masjid.
12.35 pm: Reached. Pray.
1.05 pm: Lots of cabs here.
1.10 pm: Back to office.
5.30 pm: Getting ready to head back home. Either some kind soul comes from home to pick me up or step out and walk 1o min, by jumping a wall, and head to the highway.
5.40 pm: Buses don't stop. Ask for lift. Avg waiting time: 1 hour.
6.45 pm: Someone finally stops. Get a ride home.
8.00 pm: Get down at bus stand. Take a cab.
8.15 pm: Back home, finally!

After:

Wake up. Get ready. Step into the car. Drive to work. Work. Step back in to the car. Drive back home. Period.

Blissful! :-)

Dubai Driving License - Part 4 (The End)

2008-11-12T10:41:00.006+04:00

Pass!

I couldn't believe my ears. Had I become so paranoid that my ears were ringing with what I wanted to hear? How could this happen? How could I, me, Masood Salem, pass the great Dubai driving test?

But pass I did. And that too with style. Not one remark on my assessment sheet. Too the extent that the examiner even complimented on my drive.

Why wouldn't he - I was the first guy to pass today!

This is the hardest I ever had to fight for something. Seriously. Nothing had eluded me so much in my life. And hence this 'victory' (Yes, I would call this a victory by all means!) is all the more sweeter.

So, this finally is the last 'episode' of my driving license saga. Part 4 - The conclusion. The grand finale. The End.

Cheers.

ARK

2008-11-10T16:46:00.004+04:00

A few thousand years ago, Nuh (as known in Islam) or Noah (in Christianity), on instructions from God, built an ark (a big boat) and together with his family, some followers and with one male and one female representative of all animals on the planet, boarded the ark and set assail. God, too upset on mankind's sinful ways, had decided to flood the earth and punish all those who were left behind. They sailed for 5-6 months before the waters receded and finally saw land. With no human alive, they were the source for all post-flood humanity.

Interesting, isn't it? That is not my purpose. The reason why I write this today is because ARK can be used in one more context - Acts of Random Kindness. When I heard about this (and this I did while watching the movie 'Evan Almighty'), it really got me thinking.

We talk about change. We talk about the world, the country, our workplace, the government or the people or even ourselves. But are never the ones who are the catalyst for that change. We just talk and talk and talk. And if someone does stand up, there are thousands to pull him down (sometimes literally). So how do we influence change? Aren't we too small or too minuscule in comparison to the larger scheme of things? Who is going to notice? And despite taking efforts, is anything really going to change? The answer lies in ARK.

ARK does not require you to be in a position of power to change things. All you need to do is one random act, one small deed, one gesture per day. How about not breaking traffic laws for a day? Or throwing the wrapper of that chocolate bar in the trash rather than on the road or, as you walk in or out of work, greeting all security guards you see that day. The list can be endless.

And goodness can be infectious. You never know who you may be inspiring.

I miss you

2008-11-03T23:45:00.005+04:00

I miss you; when I wake up every morning,
As much as I do even when I am snoring.

I miss you; when I get ready for work,
Not finding my stuff feels like a dork.

I miss you; when I unpack my lunch,
Not making me feel even to munch.

I miss you; want your voice on the phone,
But all I get now is a stupid dial-tone.

I miss you; when I get back home,
Only waiting is my bed’s foam.

I miss you; your side is empty,
Sleeping now feels like humpty-dumpty.

I miss you; my wife, my friend,
Comon, bring this distance to an end.

Jagjit Singh - WOW

2008-11-02T12:31:00.009+04:00

Breath-taking. Spellbound. Mesmerized. Out. Of. This. World.

That's all I can say after attending Jagjit Singh's concert on Friday night. No wonder the man is a living legend. For close to three hours, we didn't know what hit us. He had us possessed.

And what do I tell about his troop! The jugalbandi was mind blowing. Sameer Upadhya at the tabla and Deepak Pandit on the violin had us gasping for breath. And, if this was not enough, the surprise package of the evening was Nithin on the flute. I think God was listening. And just when we thought we'd seen enough, how about a jugalbandi between the three? What more, even Agni on the synthesizer decides to join in. Absolutely unbelievable. This was the highlight of the evening!!!

Some all time great gazals like 'Woh kagaz ki kashti', 'Huzoor aap kabhi', 'Hosh walon ko khabar', 'Mein nashien mei hun' and 'Hazaron khwaheshien aise' to some foot tapping punjabi gazals, he had us under his spell all along.

Before the concert, I was wondering what excited me more - the concert or the hotel? But we have a winner hands down!

Jagjit Singh Live at Emirates Palace

2008-10-29T14:14:00.007+04:00

My brother just booked us tickets for a live Jagjit Singh concert taking place on 31st Oct. What more, the venue is the great Emirates Palace hotel. For those who (still) don't know about the hotel, it is an absolute marvel. Take a look as these pics:

Don't know what I am more excited about - the concert or the hotel!

But, whatever it is, this is enough to make me forget that I flunked another driving test today!

In a Jiffy

2008-10-27T10:09:00.005+04:00

A year looks like a reasonably long time when we think about it but it passes off in a jiffy when you have to live it. That's how fast this last year of my blogger life has passed - in a jiffy!

This blog has become an important part of my life. It's my diary, only public. Just as Iya stated in the first comment I received on the blog, this is the world of 'self-expression'. More on Iya later. Coming back to the blog, I always wanted to be part of the blogger community. For more than 2 years, was just a follower, sometimes expressing my views via comments but mostly just a reader cum observer. Then, my wedding date got finalized. And what better time to start 'self-expression' than a wedding! And that's when this journey started.

From the preparations, the shopping sprees, the fears and inhibitions, the honeymoon planning to the actual wedding and the honeymoon - I covered this beautiful phase of my life here.

And in the midst of 'marriage mania', I went to Dublin (Ireland) for two weeks on training.

Come March and with everything behind me, it was back to routine work and married life. Some events had an epochal impact on me like the accident and the milestone. Some brought delight and happiness like success at work, Dad's birthday and Roger Federer. Some disappointments like my driving license ordeal. Some observations on current affairs, Dubai taxi or Ramadan. A few movies. And some just brought plain 'ol satisfaction or nostalgia like completing 3 years at Oracle, Bangalore, IPL, my team in Oracle India and my birthday. All in all, it's been fun!

I would like to thank Priyanka, whose blog opened my eyes and the doors to the blogger world.

My wife for being my strength and inspiration. And for being my most silent reader! For the record - she has not commented ever.

Thank you, Iya, for your generous comments and for always being there.

My sister, Ruhi, for being an ardent follower with crispy comments.

And a big thank you to everyone else as well. There is going to be more. This is just the beginning. Stay tuned.

Dubai Driving License - Part 3

2008-10-15T16:52:00.004+04:00

Road test 4: Fail

I'm beginning to think - Is it even possible to pass?

Statistic for today: Only 11 passed out of possibly 150+ students.

Edison once said after failing to invent the light bulb - "I have not failed. I've just found 10000 ways that won't work".

So let's be optimistic. I've just found different ways on how not to pass. Hurray!

Ought to share my wisdom. Think so too?

Just one: Don't look like an Indian!!!

Tharki?

2008-10-13T16:24:00.003+04:00

Someone dropped by at my blog with the following Google search query:

"wanted tharki girl in bangalore"

I just couldn't stop laughing. It made my day!!!

To the wise (read: desperate) guy or girl (really?): Sorry to disappoint you but this is not that type of a blog.

Insanity

2008-10-13T09:42:00.002+04:00

I think everyone deserves one chance at insanity. I'm just trying to come to terms with it.

Check this out...

2008-10-07T15:04:00.008+04:00

I've never posted links to other blogs here. Maybe I never came across something exceptional enough. But this has to be an huge exception.

An Ode to India TV

Just check this out!

Super!!! Hats off to the author.

Happy budda...err birthday to me!

2008-09-29T13:17:00.006+04:00

I've turned 27 today. It is quite an ideal age I think - not too old, not too young. Just about perfect. Every day from now is going to be a step towards really getting old. Till today, I never felt I was growing old nor did I ever feel old. I don't today as well. But I know next year, I won't be feeling the same. Next year, I will feel older. But then, why worry about something that is invariably going to happen unless ofcourse the Almighty has other plans!

So I am thinking. What should I be doing this year that I know I won't be able to do next year or the year after? I always believed that there is a time for everything and, whatever has to happen, happens at exactly that time. My dad told me something a few years back that I could never forget: "Waqt se pehle, aur kismat se zayada, kuch nahi milta" (I can't come up with a satisfactory translation for this. Sorry about that). So it's my job to figure out the right time. I will be doing more of that introspection this year.

It's my first birthday with my wife. We have had a memorable and fantastic last 8 months of companionship. Thanks for everything, Love. I miss my closest friends today. All who matter have either called or emailed in person with wishes. Thanks guys. I am with my family today and that is a blessing I can't be thankful enough for. So here's a BIG thank you to one and all.

(I wrote this on 29/9 but did not get a chance to post it. Putting it up today on 1/10)

(Mysteriously the posting date still shows 29/9)

Dubai Driving License - Part 2

2008-09-28T16:58:00.007+04:00

I failed my third driving test today. It's actually no big deal. It is just my third test.

Since the last month and a half or so, there has been some changes. I've changed my driving school. After my last experience with them, I'd had enough. I am now with Belhasa. Also, I've moved from Manual to Automatic transmission. About Belhasa, they have lesser administrative processes but they charge about 50% higher though. The number of classes between tests is also more, 12 instead of 8. So again, more expenses. But it is closer to work. And things move fast.

Either ways, I still flunked.

Maybe I am a bit too desperate. Should just let it happen at its own sweet pace. Like nature, some things cannot be tampered with.

So, note to self: A driver's license is not the only thing that matters. Watch the sunset instead.

2008-09-23T10:18:00.003+04:00

Life has its own ways to mess things up. Sometimes we run away from the harshest realities of life only to run right back into it again and realize you were actually running from none other than yourself.

I am my own nightmare. I made this Frankenstein. And I have to live with it. No more running. No more hiding.

Diversity at work

2008-09-15T15:02:00.004+04:00

I work under a Moroccan manager with Russian, Indian, Lebanese, Jordanian, Tunisian, Pakistani and Swiss colleagues, Filipino sales assistant and a Sri lankan office boy in an American company located in the Middle East!

He's back - Federer wins 5th US Open

2008-09-09T13:56:00.004+04:00

Roger Federer wins his 5th consecutive US Open championship. He is the first man since 1928 to win 5 straight finals. And the only man in history to win 5 consecutive championships in 2 grandslams - US Open and Wimbledon.

What a champion! After loosing the Wimbledon and French Open finals, nobody gave Fed a chance to win any other grandslam. Why? They said the psychological impact of loosing at Wimbledon would be so profound on him that it would be his end. And he then lost the world number 1 ranking to Nadal after spending a record 237 weeks on the top. Were we ever going to see the same Roger Federer again? Will he ever win again?

And how did he respond?

With absolute magic on Arthur Ash stadium last evening. Murray had no chance against the Federer juggernaut. He just went ahead and proved why he is arguably the greatest player ever to pick up a tennis racket. Last night's match was one for the fairytales.

Roger Federer is back and with a BANG.

woo-hoo!!!!

2008-09-08T11:29:00.005+04:00

194.65%

:)

Redemption personified.

Confused? Read this.

Update: As on 18th Sept, the number stands at 213.4% ! :)

Ramadan Kareem

2008-09-01T11:37:00.002+04:00

Today is the first day of the holy month of Ramadan. Muslims all over the world will observe a fast from dawn to dusk for 30 days. I have been asked several times by friends and acquaintances as to why we fast, what is the significance of this month etc. Guess there couldn't be a more appropriate time to discuss this.

Significance: It was in Ramadan that the first verses of the holy Quran was passed to the Prophet (PBUH).

Purpose: With thousands of people dying each day due to poverty or hunger - fasting brings us closer to the harsh realities of life. It reminds us of the suffering of the poor, the less fortunate. While fasting, we are supposed to observe self-control, righteousness and sincerity. We have to abstain from what is wrong, immoral, unethical, unjust and fallacious. It is a time to speak cleanly (and not use obscenities), the truth and refrain from lying, it is a time to refrain from violence, it is a time to remember the great Almighty, the time to seek forgiveness for all sins, it is a time to regulate our worldly desires to the minimal (avoid wastefulness) and negate showing off, a time to refrain from inappropriate sexual desires. It is also the time to donate a part (2.5%) of your savings to charity (not only to those outside our social circle but to anyone who is in need). A time for mercy, care and kindness. A time to learn patience, discipline and strong will.

It is a time to observe and live the primary principle that governs Islam - Peace. A time to, not just be a good Muslim, but a good human being.

Apart from fasting, a Muslim is supposed to lead a life like this always. The month of Ramadan is a time that reminds us our true calling - who we are, what we are and why we are!

Wishing you all Ramadan Mubarak and may you make the most of this blessed month.

What's in a name - II

2008-08-29T16:32:00.001+04:00

As if this was not enough, someone called me 'Masrood' today!!!!

Money, Moolah, Bucks, Dough or Cash

2008-08-29T15:52:00.005+04:00

I just realized something today. And it got me worried.

For the last 5-6 months, all I do all month is wait for 25th of that month. Why? That's my pay-day. Doesn't matter what day of the month it is. I just wait for 25th. Period.

And while on my way to work this morning, I was doing just that. Glanced at my watch to see what date it is today, quick calculation and, all of a sudden, it struck me: Is this what I do all month? Wait for the 25th? Yes, subconsciously &, even consciously, that's what I do. Why do I do that? What am I gaining? But what really got my concerned was: What am I possibly loosing out on?

I have no recollection of how time flew these last 6 months. I was so preoccupied waiting for something in the future to happen that I completely ignored what really was happening. I was secretly wishing for time to go by quickly. This never happened to me while working in Bangalore. I only waited for my pay-day if, and only if, there was a big commission expected. Like once in 3 or 6 months. Not every month. This is disturbing.

Money does make our heart smaller and life less meaningful. Unless we do something about it. This has to change. I have to change.

Back to work

2008-08-25T11:47:00.005+04:00

Time out is over and I am back to work on a typical Monday morning. Tired, sleepy and bored. Boo.

Weekend was fun. Doha is not too different from Dubai. Traffic, erratic driving, luxury cars, corniche, food joints, malls, humidity & buildings to sum it all up. We spent most of our time indoors during the day waiting for the evenings before stepping out. Out here in any Gulf city, be it Dubai or Doha or Manama, stepping outdoors is either going to one of the umpteen malls or to the movies or to the beach or eat out or spend time in the car commuting between places. We visited the malls and ate out. Too hot for the beach. Not interested in wasting 3 hours inside a movie hall. Commute was OK. We almost ended up slamming our car into a SUV. We did hit but only just. No apparent damage to either cars, except a few scratches, so no one really bothered to call the cops. All's well that ends well. Overall, it was a good, fun weekend.

Now that I am back to work, this week is important for me. I am expecting 3 big orders to book this week. If all goes well, and I so wish it does, I will be at 200% of my numbers. This would be my first real good quarter since in joined Oracle Dubai. Gone are the days when my achievement was never in the hundreds. It was always in thousands. Don't believe me? OK, here are a few numbers:

Dec 06 - Feb 07: Achieved 2712% of my target
Mar - May 07: 1387%
Jun - Aug 07: 1801%

Big numbers right? Even bigger commission cheques I assure you. These were the numbers I wooed my interviewers with before starting with this job. Now wait till I mention my numbers since I moved here:

Sept - Nov 07: 25.1%
Dec - Feb 08: 32%
Mar - May 08: 42.3%

Pathetic I know. That's why this week is important for me. This is my chance at redemption.

Time out

2008-08-20T13:19:00.003+04:00

Tomorrow evening, I am off to Qatar for a much deserved break. Unfortunately this is not a full blown vacation per se but I would consider it as a welcome change from the scheme of things. My wife's sister lives in Doha, Qatar. We've been thinking of visiting them for some time now. With Ramadan starting next month, looks unlikely that we could have traveled before October. So here we are then.

Looking forward to an enjoyable long weekend (I am taking Friday off). We are back on Sunday night. Cheers.

'Snooze' it

2008-08-14T09:05:00.004+04:00

Just wondering....

How many people 'snooze' their alarms each morning to get those few extra-precious minutes of sleep?

I snooze my alarm three times. I get 9 extra minutes or 540 seconds. Doesn't look much, isn't it? Try explaining that to me at 6.45 am!

Are we addicted to snoozing? I know I am. It is my most trusted companion. Regardless of anything, I know my alarm will ring again in 3 minutes. Period. Unless, in my slumber, I accidentally pressed 'stop'. Not good. Rush. Excuses. Dog ate my homework?!!

So why can't we just wake up at the first alarm? No more snooze. Me gonna give it a shot.

What's in a name?

2008-08-11T17:12:00.003+04:00

Quite a bit, I think. But my problem is not with my name. Frankly, I just love it. True.

Plenty of reasons why:

1. I like the meaning. Masood means lucky, fortunate, happy. And I am.
2. I like the significance. My grandfather's name was Masood. I was born right after he expired. And he was a great man. (May his soul rest in peace). Also, Masood was one of our holy Prophet's (PBUH) companion's name.
3. I like the uniqueness. In 27 years, I know of just 1 more guy named Masood. Ofcourse, come across the name on TV or the internet a bit.
4. I like the simplicity. Simple. Six alphabets. Not too big. Not too small. Easy to pronounce I thought. But not the case.

And that is what I don't like. People not pronouncing my name properly. On last count, there are about 6-7 different ways:

1. Ma-su-d (The right way. My way)
2. Mas-ou-d (The Arabic way. Probably the technically correct pronunciation)
3. Ma-sue-de (The American way)
4. Ma-suuuud (The people-with-a-lot-of-time-to-call-out-a-name way)
5. Mah-su-d (The African way)
6. Ma-soor (Yes!!! With the 'r')
7. Mohammad or Mansoor (People have. Very nice names but hello...not my name!)

And why do I write about this? Someone called me 'Masoor' today, again.

Team BI-ZAR

2008-08-06T15:09:00.008+04:00

Aimlessly going through some old emails, I suddenly noticed a year old email lying in my sent items. One look at it and tons of fantastic memories came rushing back to me of my days in Oracle Bangalore. This is what that email contained:

"With eleven new hires we started, towards millions we darted,
Nobody else would have dared it, coz nobody else would have nerved it,
With just quarters three and four, eleven million in revenue galore,
Brightest among all superstars, step aside for BI-ZARS!"

I wrote this citation last year when my team was nominated for the 'Superstar Team of the Year' award. In two quarters that we were operational, we closed more business than 15 other teams that had worked all year long. Our team spirit was uncrushable, team work nonpareil. We called ourselves Team BI-ZAR (Logic behind the name - Business Intelligence cZARs (Our product line was Business Intelligence) and by BIZAR we really meant 'bizarre'). Truly a superstar team.

Here's a snap of the team during one of our 'bizar' moments

Oh, and did I tell you we won the award?

UAE driver license & Emirates driving institute - Lethal combo

2008-08-05T09:12:00.004+04:00

Yesterday was 4th August. Duh. So? It was the day of my highly-anticipated, much-talked-about driving test. It was yet another attempt to own the priziest of all prizes - a driving license in Dubai! And what an experience I had!

My test time was scheduled for 10am. I got there 20 min before time. Stood patiently in the queue to register myself. Within a few minutes, my driving permit was submitted. Now, all I needed to do was wait for them to call out my name. And, wait I did. Hundreds of names were called out, driving permits returned, tests given, licenses issued or declined but there was no sign of a certain name I was waiting to hear.

12.05 pm
I decided that's it. What the fuck is happening? Why is my name not being announced? I walk up to the registration counter and find my driving permit stacked with several others. I think to myself, "OK, they delayed the registration I guess. But atleast it's done. They'll call out my name anytime now".

So, waiting game - the next level. In the meanwhile, I try to socialize....with the cashier! He looked Indian that's why. I walk up to the guy and smile. It usually works wonders. After a harmless discussion about the weather and traffic, I casually pop out what was really on my mind, "Tell me something...when the registration takes so long, what's the reason behind it?". Quickly, he replied, "Maybe your appointment was not confirmed!". Huh? "But my date and time was given by you guys". I think the cashier sensed what was I getting onto. "But if you got your permit back, then it is confirmed". He even smiled. Reassurance.

1.55 pm
Still no sign. I noticed a few guys who had been waiting all morning. I walk up to another Indian dude in a suit (It even rhymes! This is crazy). His test was scheduled for 8.30am. We smile at each other, secretly refueling our tanks of patience and determination.

2.30 pm
OK. This has ridiculous. I've been waiting for close to 5 hours now. A more determined walk to the registration counter, tough stares and a few hard questions later, this is what that Arab guy tells me, "If no my signature on your permit, then no appointment today". I didn't like the sound of that. Signature? I knew what he was talking about. I had noticed that while standing in the queue earlier. My permit had no signature. I ask him why. He says I was not on time. I explain I was on time and have been here for 5 hours now. He replies, "Sorry, go take another appointment". And immediately looks away. Hello?

What the fuck! I've been here all morning and they say I don't have a fucking appointment. I was not alone. 15 of us. Agitation. Angers flare up. More arguments. I decided to stay put and flow with the tide. And, best of all, no one is ready to explain or help. Absolutely no one.

2.55 pm
One kind soul finally takes notice. He collected our permits again. In the midst of chaos, made a few phone calls and informed us that we will not be having our tests today. More agitation. But but but he will try and get us a new appointment at the next available date. Crap. As far as I know, there is a mandatory gap of 30 days before a new slot is selected.

3.20 pm
My name is finally called out. I am given 2 options: 7th August or 10th August? Surprised, but in less than a micro-second, I shoot back, "7th".

4.10 pm
I am back to work, dozens of emails waiting in my inbox, precious money spent on taxi, hungry and thirsty, back and legs paining and frustrated beyond belief! After settling down at my table, I try and recollect the happenings of the day. I am shocked. A quick glance at my driving permit lying on my desk and my eyes stop at this sentence: Emirates Driving Institute: Proud to be professional

All I could muster up is a smile.

Boiler Room

2008-07-30T10:44:00.005+04:00

I first saw "Boiler Room" nearly 3 years back. And it's been on my laptop ever since. If you are a hotshot sales guy, this is the movie for you. I'm not gonna give details about the plot or anything else. Just posting excerpts of my favorites scenes.

In this scene, Jim Young (Ben Affleck), who is the Head of Recruitment, gives a pitch to a room full of new applicants about the job, the firm and why they should work there. So here goes:

Jim Young: OK, here’s the deal. I am not here to waste your time and I certainly hope your not here to waste mine. So, I’m gonna keep this short. Become an employee of this firm and you will make your first million within three years. OK? I’m gonna repeat that. You will make a million dollars within three years of your first day of employment at J T Marlin. There is no question whether or not you will become a millionaire working here. The only question is how many times over.

You think I’m joking? I’m not joking!

I am a millionaire. It’s a weird thing to hear, right? Tell ya, it’s a weird thing to say. I am a fucking millionaire. And guess how old I am? 27. You know what that makes me here….a fucking senior citizen. Lucky for me I happen to be really fucking good at my job or I’d be out of one. You guys are the new blood. You are the future big swinging dicks of this firm.

Anybody tells you money is the root of all evil doesn’t fucking have any.

They say money can’t buy happiness? Look at the fucking smile on my face. Ear to ear, baby!

You want details. Fine. I drive a Ferrari. 355 Cabriolet. What’s up! I have a ridiculous house in the South fork. I have every toy you can possible imagine. And best of all kids, I am liquid. So now you know what’s possible. Let me tell you what’s required. You are required to work your fucking ass off at this firm. We want winners here. Not pikers! A piker walks with a bell. Piker asks how much vacation time you get in the first year. Vacation time? People come and work at this firm for one reason – to become filthy rich. That’s it. We’re not here to make friends. We’re not saving the fucking manatees here. You want vacation time? Go teach third grade.

Your friends are shit. Tell ‘em you made 25 grand last month, there not gonna believe you. Fuck them. FUCK THEM. Parents don’t like the life you lead. Fuck you. See how it feels when you’re making their fucking Lexus payments. Now go home and think about it.

Think about whether or not this is really for you. You decide it isn’t? Listen, its nothing to be embarrassed about. It’s not for everyone. But if you really want this, you call me on Monday and we’ll talk. Just don’t waste my fucking time.

OK, that’s it.

The Black Swan theory

2008-07-28T15:23:00.003+04:00

I came across a really thoughtful theory this morning - The Black Swan Theory.

This theory talks about taking into consideration high-impact, tough-to-predict, rare events beyond the realms of human imagination. We humans are hopelessly poor in predicting the future. We underestimate the extremes in our range of outcomes. We jump to conclusions using every piece of information that confirms out outlook and conveniently ignore the ones that make us rethink.

So what happens if these extremes occur? These unexpected events have a far more significant impact on us compared to those mundane, predictable events taking place daily. For instance, take 9/11 or the invention of the Internet or the dot com crash or the great depression or the personal computer, world war one or even the ongoing sub prime crisis - all these events have had an epochal impact on us.

Now think monetarily. Few who predicted such events were in far better shape than most. For some, their losses were minimal. For some more, they even made some money. And for many others, lots of money!

The black swan theory could be a smart tool for investment. Lets say, you invest 85-90% on regular, predictable, safe bets. Now, how about finding those 'black swans' for the remaining 10%? Think of some radical ideals to bet on as black swans. What could be the next big thing that could happen in a year or two? Technology breakthroughs, global recession, war, revolution, peace, hyper inflation etc. Sure, you may not have a well-defined ROI or, for that matter, not even know where to bet or if it is even practically possible but just think about it. It is a start. Consider the what-if scenarios! The idea is not to invest in these as a fall back option (for a rainy day) but use these to spread your portfolio. To make some money. Don't expect to win many of them. But the ones that you win, will be nothing less than a jackpot.

And how about using this theory not just for investments but also in our personal lives? Is it possible?

Corporate lesson 1 : Communication

2008-07-25T14:11:00.006+04:00

The first lesson I learnt when I entered the corporate world was about communication. I always fancied myself as a good, confident communicator - both verbal and non-verbal. Language was not a problem. Infact that's what had landed me the job in the first place. So I thought I was in good shape but that conviction lasted only till my first few days at work.

I think this incident took place towards the end of my first week at work, some time in May 05. My company provided us with provisional accommodation for 15 days, within which, we were supposed to hunt for a suitable place to stay for ourselves. So I decided to ask people for help. After all, this was my first trip to Bangalore. I could use all the help that I can get. And, who better than my boss to ask. He seemed like a nice, sensible guy. Surely he would help me out. All I need to do is ask. That's what he told me.

So, ask I did. While we were walking to the cafeteria. And here's how that conversation went:

MS: (In a low tone) umm...Boss, As you are aware.......
AB: Pardon? Sorry can't hear you.
MS: (Louder and nervously) Actually..uh..I am staying at this hotel...and..umm we got just 15 days to find a house..so uh...just wanted to know.....actually, where do you stay? Coz the thing is...I'm new here so uh...don't really know any places.......and I thought if you knew any.......
AB: What? (Confused)
MS: (Took a deep breath and tried to compose myself) Boss, do you know any real estate agents who could help me find a house?
AB: Oh, that...OK. Hang on. (Takes out his cell phone) Here, note this number. Call this guy. He helped me find a good place.
AB: Actually, let me call him up right away.
MS: OK

This small incident thought me big lessons:

1. Be audible and clear
2. Be concise and to the point
3. Speak only when you need to speak. Timing is everything.

These are the basics of business communication. Till today, I haven't forgotten that incident.

Note: AB was my boss till my last day at work there. I considered him my mentor and, for the two n a half years that I worked with him, went to him for all kinds of advice, both professional and personal. I am still in touch with him, despite both of us moving on. More on him in a later post.

The Dentist

2008-07-21T11:45:00.003+04:00

I decided that the best way to keep my mind off from what was coming is to go for a movie. But, unfortunately, plans changed and we ended up loitering around the mall, waiting, dreading!

And then it was time. We took a cab and I told the cab driver to take us to 'New Medical Center'. We reached there in 10 min. I walked up to the information desk and asked them, "Which floor is the Dental clinic?". In typical mallu accent the person replies, "Sar, naat yin this building. Go straiiit yand leyeft. Wold NMC building. Mejaanine floor, Wokay?". Wokay.

We walked to the wold NMC bldg which was just a couple of min away. At the reception, I confirmed my appointment, handed over my insurance card and took a seat. How long was this gonna take? Whose bright idea was this? What the hell am I doing here? Of all places, of all people, I was at a dental clinic seeing the dentist! Great!

Invariably time passed. Someone from the reception suddenly yelled, "Maaassuud". Gulp. I looked around to see if someone else got up. Someone. Anyone. None. She cried out again, only louder this time. I decided to finally give in. There is no way out. I had to go. So I got up. Looked towards the reception, quickly nodded and walked towards the death..err...dentist's chamber!

"What have you done to your teeth? Where have you been all this while? My my...tch tch tch...is this your first time? Look look...it's all falling off. Here...see....take a look at this piece. Do you want to take it home? I'll gift wrap it for you if you want."

Who me? What did I do? I was abducted by aliens. They don't have people like you there, you see. First time.....and last. Yeah, right! That's exactly what I'm here for!! Great idea. I'll gift it to my boss.

Wow. What a start. This was going to be an interesting session.

"Let's start with this one. I'll need to take an x-ray. After which, we will first drill through it and then fill it up." Wha?! What logic! First drill just to fill it up again. Sounds like a roadway project in India.

45 minutes went by. "Take a look in the mirror. How does it look?". Frankly speaking, I was impressed. This guy was good. Really good actually. There was no sign of any cavity. The sensitivity was gone. All this without much pain.

I was beginning to like this guy. So much so that I even got a follow up appointment fixed. All my inhibitions vanished. The doctor, though a little cranky but very caring and fatherly, was an expert at his job. I would be visiting him more often to maintain my teeth. And would highly recommend everyone else to do the same. There's nothing like healthy teeth. Cheers.

He's my dad

2008-07-10T14:55:00.004+04:00

I was in his hands when I was taken home from hospital for the first time after my birth. He's my dad.

He took me to kindergarten for my admission and, when I fell off the slide that day at the playground, he was there to pick me up. He's my dad.

On my first day at kindergarten, the moment I realized that he was going away, I started crying uncontrollably. I kept crying. And he came back. He couldn't leave. He's my dad.

Whenever I missed my school bus, he would drop me to school. And every single time, he would hand me a Dh 1 coin to buy something at the canteen. He made me feel like a king. He's my dad.

At my first sports meet, he bought me running shoes. Shoes that were pricey and beyond our modest budget. But he still bought them for me. He's my dad.

Every time I scored good grades in school (specially in Maths), he would smile and look at my proudly. He's my dad.

When mom went to India for a few weeks, he tried to help me not miss her much. He took me out to my favorite restaurants, to parks, to the arcade, to my friends, he did everything that an eight year old would want. He's my dad.

When I had undergone a minor surgery, he fainted because I was in pain. He's my dad.

He helped me through the confused phase of adolescence. He shared his experiences & wisdom with me. He shared his dreams and aspirations with me. He showed me how to talk like a man. He showed me how to walk like a man. He showed me the difference between right and wrong. He's my dad.

At my first step of success, class 10 board exam results, he was with me, next to me, while I saw my grades. He's my dad.

He supported my interest in sports, pushed me to go for training and just weeks before my class 12 board exams, allowed me to participate at the national sports meet in India. He paid for my ticket and expenses despite the extreme financial crisis that we were in. He's my dad.

The day I left home for college, he cried. And cried each time he entered my room and would not find me there. He's my dad.

For four years, he fulfilled my every single need and desire without a question. His greatest dream was to see me as an engineer. And he did. He's my dad.

He let me choose my career and, without second thoughts, let me go away again for my MBA. He came to the airport and cried seeing me leave. He's my dad.

When I got my first job offer through campus, he was the first person I called. His joy knew no bounds. He's my dad.

On my first day at work, I called him to take his blessings. He wished me loads of professional success, growth and prosperity. I have not run out of those wishes yet. He's my dad.

The day I got my first salary, he said he was very proud of me. He's my dad.

When I got back from Dublin last December, he hugged me and told me that he had never missed me more than he did over the last 2 weeks. He's my dad.

But the truth is, I am more proud of him. I am proud to be his son. Proud to carry his name after my name. Proud to call him my dad.

It's his birthday today. Happy Birthday, Dearest Dad.

Thank you for making me the man I am today. Thank you for everything.

Jaane Tu...Ya Jaane Na - Movie review

2008-07-10T13:31:00.007+04:00

Saw the latest from Aamer Khan banner last night. Here are my ratings:

(Does not contain spoilers)

Arc: (Low)ish - (High)ish - (Low)ish

Star power: 2 (All new comers. Some cameos from Naseeruddin Shah, Paresh Rawal, Sohail and Arbaaz Khan, Kitu Gidwani and Rajat Kapoor)

Mumbling quotient: 9 (Sounded clear)

Bladder: 7 (Depends on the size of your coke! Just over 2 and a half hours)

Artistry: 6 (Not the typical Rehman ......but yes, it does come in flashes here and there. 'Kabhi Kabhi' is a nice foot-tapping number. Otherwise, overall, about average. Some scenic locales add freshness to the movie)

Sadism: 0 (A romantic comedy - what sadism?!?)

Originality: 1 (Very common story line. Every couple of years a movie like this comes out. Infact Genelia played a very similar character in Tujhe Meri Kasam with Ritesh Deshmukh)

Incomprehensibility: 0 (If you can't figure this one out, stick to Tom & Jerry, dude!)

Humor: 8 (Now, this we have in plenty. Some clever, some 'duh' and some spontaneous - its all good)

Scariness: 0 (You don't need to carry NTG)

Suspense: 0 (No prizes for guessing this one!)

Overall: 7 (The movie is predictable. Imran Khan looks good and makes a promising debut. Some characters look out of place but this is a light script so it really doesn't matter. It is an enjoyable movie but only for those who don't take cinema too seriously and are looking for plain entertainment. Movie defies logic more than once. But again, it's just a movie guys. We need a few like these as well. So just chill and enjoy the popcorn!)

Disappointing weekend

2008-07-07T09:43:00.003+04:00

This weekend was way too disappointing for my liking. The buildup was phenomenal but the climax, a complete anticlimax.

1. Federer lost the Wimbledon finals to Nadal.
2. India lost the Asia cup finals to Srilanka.
3. Ferrari not on the podium at the British F1 Grand Prix.

Bummer.

Even worse, they lost to guys or teams I despise the most!

BUMMER!

Inflation in UAE

2008-07-03T09:31:00.005+04:00

For years I never understood inflation. Not even the definition nor the concept. All I knew was that the prices increased. Stuff got dearer. But why? No clue. How? No idea!

Then I moved to the Gulf last September. And this region has been experiencing a double digit inflation. So I was forced to take notice. What the hell is happening here? The cost of every damn commodity is sky rocketing. Two of the most talked about problems the region is currently facing are the rising cost of living and the depreciating value and purchasing power of the local currency, both of which are directly related to inflation. This made me think. Isn't this the most natural phenomenon for any region known for its exponential growth? And also for it's artificiality!

I think this is a direct result of being complacent. Anyone who knows two of the most commonly used words in macro economics will understand what I am talking about. 'Demand' and 'Supply'. When there is excessive demand for a certain commodity, the prices will go up. When there is a monopolistic scenario where greedy traders control the market, the prices will go up. When there is no liaising within the UAE on fiscal policy, the prices will go up. The fact of the matter is that the country has bit more than it can chew. It is a vicious circle. With increasing multi-billion dollar real estate projects, millions will be required to populate the offices and residential units. This will in-turn increase demand exponentially for basic commodities like food, schools, hospitals, transportation and other factors that go into an individual's monthly expenditure. Where there is demand, there is inflation. Inflation and development go hand in hand. To reduce inflation, demand has to come down. And, with the number of projects announced daily, this may not be far away.

Increasing interest rates will not help. It will only reduce liquidity in the market. People will not be able to buy those billion dollar properties. That will reduce the demand. And they can't afford to do that. They need the money. It is a double edged sword. In all cases, they need to sustain high demands. But inflation hits all commodities. Even the industry that started it all - Real Estate. Thus higher costs will also affect the developers. Several will go bust, leaving incomplete projects, and in some cases, projects not even started with desperate investors in the lurch. What next? Chaos. Damaged reputation. Demand falls. In the meantime, with the US economy under recession, what happens if the dollar peg breaks? The value of the local currency increases that will paralyze the non-oil economy as it will drive exports down and make it more expensive to sell property. Demand falls further. What next? Oil prices? US-Iran crisis? I don't want to think any further.

For now, I am happy to buy a tin of Nido for Dh 74, which was Dh 30 a couple of years back, and pray......that my employer increases my salary! :)

UAE driver license

2008-07-01T16:02:00.009+04:00

I flunked my driving test last week. This is a strong enough reason for me to sulk. But guess what? I'm perfectly fine. It was just my first test I tell myself. Nothing to be proud off though.

So, after I flunked, I asked the other 3 guys with me if it was their first tests as well? These are the answers I got:

Seventh, Fourth and Fifth!

I was like...what?!!? They were laughing at me. These guys just flunked yet another driving test and were perfectly cool about it. How? Why? Had they resigned to their fate? Did they know something that I did not? What am I missing?

Anyways, there were four of us in the car and only one guy passed - the guy appearing for his fifth test!

So I think this is going to be a long journey! My next test is now on 4th August. A good one month of nothing before appearing for another test. And all this shit after I fuckin know how to drive!!

Getting a drivers license is a menace in UAE. So much so that there have been reports in the newspapers about it. Take a look at this:

http://archive.gulfnews.com/articles/08/06/17/10221535.html

I should take heed from the fact that I am not the only one suffering.

But why is it that this makes me feel better? The thought that there are others out there feeling miserable and helpless after failing to get a drivers license when they need it the most. People who are spending precious dirhams paying for extra classes and test fee. People who have to go through many inconveniences because they cannot legally drive their own fuckin' cars. People like me.

PDA - hunt and haunt

2008-06-27T10:57:00.005+04:00

I've decided to buy a PDA.

I'm getting rid of my Nokia E65. No, nothing wrong with the phone. Trust me, it's great! But it is not serving my purpose, which is connectivity. By connectivity, I mean I want my emails, my calender, my files etc accessible to me 24/7. I spend 3 hrs in the car daily traveling to and fro from work. And on most days, I need to be wired. Having a laptop is ok but again, everytime I need internet on the move, I need to connect it to, yes, my cellphone (which doubles up as a modem). So I decided to modify this chain a bit. From Me -> Cellphone -> Laptop -> Work to Me -> Cellphone -> Work.

Easier said than done. This is going to have repercussions. For starters, big hole in my pocket (PDAs don't come cheap!!!), angry wife (Imagine sending out a quotation while I am strolling leisurely in the park with my wife), no peace of mind (There's always going to be some work). Maybe strained eyes too.

And, after much deliberation, I concluded that all of the above are manageable. Have a big commission check coming (Talk about counting my chickens before they hatch!), my wife is a sweetheart (She'll understand) and about peace of mind, what's that?? Oh, did somebody say strained eyes as well? Who?!

So, the next step, the million dollar question: Which one do I buy?!?

And this has been haunting me for over 2 weeks now!

Movie review - Sarkar Raj

2008-06-24T10:24:00.003+04:00

I saw Sarkar Raj this weekend. Thoroughly enjoyed the movie. I think it was a fitting sequel to Sarkar. It was well connected and thought through. Had interesting, almost intriguing, twists and turns. I am rating the movie using a mechanism I thought about a few weeks back. Does not contain spoilers. Ratings are subjective.

Arc: (Low)ish - (High)ish - Really (High)

Star power: 9 (Aishwarya looked completely out of sorts though. But yes, both the Bachchans steal the show! A couple of new faces show promise as well)

Mumbling quotient: 9.5 (Crystal clear)

Bladder: 10 (You can make it all the way. A little over 2 hours I reckon)

Artistry: 8 (Camera angles, background score, cinematography and direction - Bang on!)

Sadism: 8 (Justified)

Originality: 6 (Maybe some dust from The Godfather series has rubbed a bit)

Incomprehensibility: 9 (Makes sense all along)

Humor: 2 (Hardly but unnecessary)

Scariness: 1

Suspense: 7 (Can keep you guessing)

Overall: 8.5 (Would have been a 9 if Ash wasn't part of this project)

Tiger Woods & Roger Federer - What is their secret?

2008-06-17T12:06:00.004+04:00

Tiger Woods has clinched yet another major title, his 14th I think. The US Open 2008. Now he's only 4 away from the all-time majors record of 18 set by Jack Nicklaus. The great Jack Nicklaus. No other player in Golfing history has come even close to what these two have achieved. Truly the game's greats! But the greatest? Is it Woods or Nicklaus? This question has been baffling golf fans all over the globe. I think Nicklaus is the greatest right now! And I think Woods is on his way to greatness. And rest assured, by the time he hangs up his boots, he would have reached where no other golfer in history has ever reached. He's just 32.

A similar story is being scripted in another sport - Tennis. Roger! Roger! Roger!!! Yes, Roger Federer is close to reaching tennis immortality. 12 grand slam titles - and 2 shy off the record set by Pete Sampras. But like Sampras, Federer too has not won the French Open. Sampras never made it past the semis though. Federer has lost the final 3 times in a row to clay court nemesis Nadal. Does not take any luster of Federer's achievements and domination of the men's tennis circuit. Maybe just a little for the purists. He is and has been the world number 1 for the last five years, which is also the record for the most consecutive weeks as number 1. At 27, he has the second highest career earnings in history. For some, he already is the greatest ever! For some, he is one of the greats. And for some more, he is on the way! But you know what? Let's visit this space again in, say, 3 yrs, when he is 30 (usually the crossroads for all tennis players) and take up this argument. I think there will be no argument.

What's common between these two gentlemen - Mr. Woods and Mr. Federer? Couple of points come to mind right away - masters of their sport, rich, innovative, great suits and watches, the Gillette ad etc. But all this is superficial. I think it's the kind of human beings they are. Both of them have never been caught on the wrong foot or with their pants down. Both have exemplary behavior in public (on and off the court), superb sportsmanship, do not succumb to pressure, lead by example, support many noble and humanitarian causes, have revolutionized their sport, are honest and even modest. Millions of people all over the world look up to these guys. And, boy, have they obliged or what!

These two are great sportsmen but even greater human beings. They don't make too many of 'em anymore!

Dubai Taxi

2008-06-13T16:51:00.002+04:00

Much has been said and written about the Dubai taxi. This is my attempt to uncover the other side of the story. These are my personal observations over the last 8 months. So here goes:

1. A taxi driver has daily targets varying from Dh 300 to Dh 400 per day. This varies between different taxi companies. Their fixed salary is on an average Dh 1800 per month. On attaining their targets, they get commissions (avg. around Dh 1000 per month)

2. They work 12 hr shifts usually starting anytime between 4 and 8 AM and vice versa. A couple of taxi companies have 24 hr shifts.

3. Different colors of the car roof top denote different taxi companies. Red, Blue, Green, Yellow, Orange, Blue etc. Red is owned by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad.

4. Taxis are not allowed to pick up passengers from bus stands except the Red ones. If they do, they are fined Dh 500. The shocking part is when there are too many passengers waiting; the RTA officer wants them to pick those passengers!

5. Some of them have to pay for their own fuel – usually Dh. 25-30 per day.

6. These guys drive close to 400-500 km each day within their 12 hrs.

7. They don’t have a designated lunch time or a rest time. If the RTA finds a taxi driver not accepting passengers because he is having lunch or resting, they are fined. Yes!

8. Some companies provide accommodation, food and annual vacation while others provide none and vacation is bi-annual. And if they report late for work from their vacation, they are not given keys for the taxi. They are at times called to office every morning and made to sit there till close of business and then asked to come back again the next day. This happens for 2-3 weeks before the keys are handed over. Some punishment, huh!

9. Once a driver completes his shift, he is supposed to go to the company, deposit the collections, get the car washed & pick up his partner driver. The partner then drops the 1^st driver to his residence, visits the company again and logs in his attendance. And that is when his shift starts. This whole exercise takes close to 3 hrs. So for instance, if driver 1 completes his shift at 3pm, it is only by 6pm that driver 2 is ready to take passengers. That particular taxi does not accept any customers between 3 to 6pm. SO there must be hundreds of such taxis which are not doing business for 2-3 hrs daily, which sometimes are rush hours, just to change shifts – explains why there aren’t taxis on the road when we need them the most!

10. If they are involved in an accident where the driver is at fault, they are supposed to pay 10% of their car’s cost which amounts to almost Dh 8000.

11. If they don’t hit their target for the day, their commission takes a negative cut.

They toil around all day in traffic that we dread the most, sometimes hungry and not rested, working graveyard shifts, sitting at one place, working on minimal wages, away from their families for many months at a stretch, under the ever-so-prowling eyes of the RTA, with traffic laws getting stricter by the day!

Would you like to work this way? If yes, great! Next time a driver annoys you, do as you wish. But if it is a No, then spare a thought for these guys. Next time, before you curse them or blame them, think twice! I am not taking sides. Just bringing out their side of the story.

"Aamir calls Shahrukh a dog"

2008-06-04T13:51:00.006+04:00

Headlines: Aamir calls Shahrukh a dog.

Really? Aamir called SRK a dog? Wow! Where? On his blog. What? In a public forum? Wow again! Some guts that man has. After all, who can say such a thing to the King Khan. Wonder how SRK would respond!

Easy to generalize and conclude such statements, right? And that is what our (in)famous press does these days. Well, let me retract. Aamir merely says that he has a dog named Shahrukh at his Panchgani home. That too the dog originally belonged to the caretakers of that house. He 'inherited' it when he bought the house. Some also say, he bought the house because of the dog, which I find hard to believe.

Coming to point why I am writing this post, so what if he keeps a dog named Shahrukh? Does SRK have a copyright over his name? Secondly, AK is known for his say-it-as-it-is approach. That's why he's AK. So how does it matter? It does matter to the press. They had a field day (for many days!). And to a few million die hard SRK fans. I am an SRK fan; more SRK than AK fan. But, if AK posts a comment like that, I give credit to him for doing what he does best - being himself. The man is the only guy who can say something like that and still stand his ground. And that too in writing! Flashback to the filmfare awards 2008: Everyone remembers the way SRK and Saif completely took apart their fellow colleagues with their timely, witty and, sometimes, gross (and offensive) gags. I remember telling my brother, "Only SRK can say all that and get away with it". But only AK can say something about SRK and get away with it.

Finally, there is someone in the industry who doesn't kiss Shahrukh's ass (unless Aamir plans to buy a bitc.....err female dog! Any guesses on it's name? ;))

Indian Premier League (IPL)

2008-06-03T11:23:00.007+04:00

First chapter in cricket newest revolution has ended. The IPL concluded this past Sunday. It was curtains for one of the most successful cricket competitions in recent times. And what a story it has scripted. Baring the world cup, never has such interest ever been generated for Cricket. The T20s has taken the world, and now India, by storm. As if being world champions was not enough! And, rest assured, IPL 2 will be bigger, grander and larger than life! And I will be waiting.

Yesterday evening, for the first time, I realized how addicted I had become to it. I got back home at about 8.40pm, walked into my room, kept aside my cellphone, keys, wallet etc and walked back into the living room. Took me a few seconds to hunt down the remote and turn on the TV. And, as if by default, my fingers pressed '2', '1', '0' in quick succession that took me to SetMax. And, after I saw a young Amitabh Bachchan delivering dialogues in his trade mark style, that it hit me like a lightning bolt - No more IPL!!! It is over. Gone. Finished. Concluded.

My heart sunk. I was missing it. I was missing the IPL. As a ardent cricket aficionado, this was not good for me. My thoughts started scrambling - Why did it have to end? Would I get to see Warney in action again? or a pulsating Shoeb Akhtar running in to bowl? Before all this could get the better of me, I could hear my mind say what Agent Smith said, "Everything that has a beginning, has an end!" (Btw, my mind said it in exactly the same way and style as said by Smith in Matrix Revolutions! I don't know how it did that. Amazing the possibilities of a human mind.....human who?!).

I got in bed later at night and my wife asks me, "Everything ok?". I replied, "Yes. Why? Do I look like something's wrong?". She replies, " Yes. Since the time you got home, you look lost". Not knowing why she felt that way, I replied, "Everything's ok dear. Maybe I'm just tired".

Sorry honey. I did'nt realize it last night but did so when I got to work this morning. It's the IPL or, rather, the lack of it.

Is the new V3 firmware available for your Nokia E65 model?

2008-05-29T10:04:00.011+04:00

Following up on my last post,

The V3 firmware is available for upgrade from the V2 or V1 but you have to see if it is so for your specific Nokia E65 model.

To check if the new firmware is available for your model, click here

Your phone's product code is displayed as 'CODE' along with other details beneath the battery. Go to the link provided and enter that code.

My product code is 0553428 and the new firmware is available for my phone.

Milestone

2008-05-26T16:03:00.005+04:00

Our lives have milestones. I know mine does for sure. I've never gotten around to actually jot down my goals in life, aspirations, '101' things-to-do before I die, milestones or stuff like that. And neither have I ever acknowledged a particular achievement or accomplishment as a milestone before. (Come to think of it, there have been quite a few already!) But yesterday, I realized, I crossed the biggest and, possibly, the most significant milestone of my life!

:)

Daag e dil humko yaad aane lage

2008-05-19T17:03:00.007+04:00

Daag-e-dil humko yaad aane lage
Log apne diye jalane lage

Khud farebi si khud farebi hai
Paas se dhol bhi suhane lage

Ab toh hota hai har qadam pe gumaan
Hum ye kaisa qadam utha ne lage

Kuch na pakar bhi mutmain hain
Ishq mein haath kya khazane lage

Ek pal mein wahan se hum uthey
Baithne mein jahan zamane lage

Apni qismat se hai maqar kisko
Teer par aa ke bhi nishane lage

Daag-e-dil humko yaad aane lage
Log apne diye jalane lage.

Open your heart - Jon Bon Jovi

2008-05-14T14:13:00.008+04:00

Some lines from Jon Bon Jovi's Open your heart....

Open your heart (I want to love you girl)
You made me love again (I want to show you my world)
I won't let them take your love from me
Open your heart (I want to love you girl)
And baby love again (I want to show you my world)
I won't let them take your love
I won't let them take your love
I won't let them take your love from me

Oracle and me...

2008-05-07T17:58:00.010+04:00

On 2nd May, I completed 3 years at Oracle corporation!

I pat myself on the back for that. No bones about the fact that this is the largest enterprise software company in the world. And at this point, there are close to 71,000 people working for Oracle across 126 countries. Our product portfolio includes anything and everything that has got to do with databases, middleware, ERP, functional applications, CRM, BI etc. And what we don't have yet, don't worry too much about that. We just go ahead and buy that company!

I am part of a multi-billion dollar multinational company! I feel proud to be associated with a company that needs no introduction. The name speaks for itself. Year after year, quarter after quarter, Oracle exceeds expectations of analysts and shareholders. In 2007, we celebrated it's 30th birthday. Hats off to the visionary and charismatic leadership of Larry Ellison. Someone said it right, God really must not think he's Larry Ellison!

Oracle has also done its part in corporate social responsibilities - EOE (Equal Opportunities Employer), supporting children and elderly homes, refugee camps, education scholarships, fund raisers, corporate games, blood donation camps, to name a few. Stringent HR policies against racism, harassment, regional or gender bias etc. ensure that the employees are well protected. We have regular trainings. team building exercises - ensuring continuous learning and personality development. I can just go on and on....

My journey at Oracle has been awesome. From the minute I stepped into the Oracle building in Bangalore, I knew this was the beginning of something special. And it was. It really was. Quarters went by, targets came and were blown away, numerous awards and recognition, pay hikes, profiles changes, leadership and mentoring....and whilst on the top, in Sept 07, I decided to change locations! Dubai was a totally different ball game. New dynamics, markets, customers, responsibilities and targets....but it's not over yet....the game has just begun!!

I feel Oracle is a part of me now. All that I know about corporate life has been what Oracle has shown me, thought me. And regardless what's lined up next, I know I will always carry a part of Oracle with me.

New firmware for Nokia E65 - v3.0633.69.00

2008-04-28T13:24:00.007+04:00

Nokia has recently (finally!) released the 3rd firmware update for the E65. This one is v3.0633.69.00. It’s a very basic update which has the task to fix known bugs and improve the stability and won’t impress that much. Unlike the other revolutionary Nokia firmware updates, this one goes almost unnoticed.

Here are a few changes made from v2.0633.65.01 to v3.0633.69.00:

Messaging
* Reading SMS time stamp information unified between regions
* SMS sending from SIM toolkit - Profile 07 improved
* Unicode handling with Turkish characters corrected
* Correction to fetching email from freemail server
* Intellisync: First time contact search improved
SIM
* After the startup, the phone recognizes the language to use from the SIM card
* SMSC is re-read from SIM after switch on
VOIP
* Improvement of co-operation of Gizmo VoIP client and internet voice mailbox
* SIP proxy authentication corrected in outgoing call if two SIP profiles with same realm and user name
WAP
* Correction of Chinese word corruption with WAP browser
* Searching in Hebrew from portal corrected
* Wap GET/POST forms corrected when using Greek characters
* Reset during WAP browsing and MT calls corrected
Other changes
* Start-up settings updated
* Settings wizard updated
* Start-up date changed to 1.1.2008
* Correction of NITZObserver with negative time zone values
* Localization improvements

My take: Not worth loosing all your data!!

To see if the new firmware is available for your E65 phone model, go here.

Wednesday

2008-04-23T10:28:00.003+04:00

Wednesday is by far the most boring day of the week. I don't have anything against Wednesday or the Germanic god of the Anglo-Saxons in the 7th century known as Wodan (Hail, ye Gods!!) - but that's where the term originated from. Wēdnes dæg to Wednes dei to Wednesday now, was the day of Wodan!

I wish it was my day!

Every Wednesday I wonder, "Why can't we jump directly from Tuesday to Thursday?" Does there have to be a Wednesday every week?! It is enough trouble alright to get through a Monday but then, we have the freshness of a weekend just gone by pushing us through Monday and even Tuesday. On Wednesday, we have.....nothing! The coming weekend is still a good two days away and the last weekend is a good two days old! So what the hell am I supposed to do on a Wednesday? A couple of extra shots of caffeine while dragging through the local business daily wondering why the hell my shares in DP World keep crashing?! That was the biggest freakin IPO the region has ever seen - 'a safe investment', 'will provide liquidity to the DIFX', 'this one just can't go wrong' predicted analysts, and the shares are trading at 50% of the offering price!!! And why aren't the dimwits at the contracts team processing my ordering documents? I have the end user and partner breathing down my neck. Who are to blame if I miss my numbers this fiscal?

I blame it on Wednesday!!! But, hey, hail, ye Gods!!! (Not risking annoying any one of 'em. Can't afford to have a couple of gods pissed off at me....not now atleast!!!!) ;)

Name change after marriage?

2008-04-16T13:07:00.004+04:00

I always believed that women should not change their last name after marriage. And when I got married, I was sure I would do the same. My reasons are technical. Why go through the hassles of a name change when it is not an obligation but just a stupid societal practice? What about the documentation/certificates etc that were issued on the old name? Birth certificate? Graduation degree? Passport? You need another document endorsing that the old and the new name are actually the same person! And do this for the rest of your life??!! And getting more argumentative, why should a girl give up her family or father's name just because she got married? Why should she disassociate herself from something that has been her identity for her entire life? And for whom? Society? I say - Bull shit! Men who try and impose this, I think, are way too egotist and insecure. If that is the case, they need therapy!

I am lucky to have a family that echo my sentiments - not the BS part though! Anyways, both my sister-in-law have not given up their last name, nor my mom or sis and neither will my wife do so. I think that decision should be left entirely on that individual. If she wishes to endorse her husband's name after her name, so be it. If it is her desire, I totally understand. That's purely sentimental. But doing so for reasons beyond that is plain foolish. All it does is create more hassles. Isn't life complicated enough already?

My message to all women out there: To hell with customs and societal norms - if YOU don't feel like keeping your husband's name - Don't do it!

Pissed off!!!!

2008-04-08T09:02:00.003+04:00

Yesterday was, by far, the most disappointing day of my short professional life.

Like all sales job, my job also involves closing business and generating revenue for the organization. And once a deal closes, I get a percentage of that deal as my commission. Fair.

I closed a relatively large deal three weeks back that accounted for close to 20% of my yearly target. Now, in the industry that I cover, the region, market dynamics, and the competition, this deal was very important for me in order to achieve my quota for the year. Everything seemed settled with the order booked, license certificates generated and product shipped to the end user - it was time for me to claim the commission on this. And, out of the blue, one 'xyz' sales person comes into the picture and takes credit for the deal, claims the commission and walks off - and with the management endorsing him!

What about me? What about the four months I spent on this? What about my efforts?

Organization rules and policies they say. They are not wrong.

I still want to say, "Screw you!!!"

Woozy Indian cricket

2008-04-03T17:02:00.006+04:00

The way team India crumpled today against South Africa reminds me of the way we played cricket in our school days. Generally matches were either 15 overs or 20 overs a side. Usually we ended up scoring between 70-80 runs. Highest scorer (and Man of the match) used to be someone who crossed 30 runs or took 3 wickets or more. It took about 2 hrs to complete an innings. See the similarities?

Any Indian cricket lover would be under serious dilemma today. How can a team that scores 600+ runs a few days back get bundled out for less than 100 in the very next innings? That too under home conditions, on a pitch created by a local curator, in front of thousands of local spectators, with most players in decent to good form etc etc. Beats me! No one wanted a dead track like the one in Chennai. And hence a seaming pitch was prepared. The result? India 76 all out. And on the same track, South Africa are comfortably poised at 223/4 - perfect example of the great uncertainties of this sport!

I think Dale Steyn has been a revelation the last couple of seasons. 22 matches for 114 wickets at just over 21 runs a wicket with 8 five-fors - this is the making of a genius. And he is just 24!

This match may have well been lost in the first hour of the test unless we see some heroics in the Indian second innings. Another flash of brilliance of Sehwag, another innings of lazy elegance from Laxman, another wallish performance from Dravid or another innings from Ganguly to reinstate that he really is next to God on the off-side! I am optimistic of an Indian fightback. All is not lost. After all, isn't cricket known for its uncertainties?

I miss Bangalore

2008-03-21T13:43:00.005+04:00

I miss seeing the sunrise from the terrace
I miss the creme de la caramel & DBC sundae from Corner House
I miss the couch, TV remote, snacks and TV
I miss the cool breeze at midnight on the terrace
I miss the biryani & kebab from Mughal Darbar, the tandoori chicken from Chicken County, fondue at Indijoes, the buffet at Barbeque Nation
I miss driving around on my bike around Jaynagar in the rain
I miss the dinners and the early morning breakfast buffets with my colleagues
I miss MTR's idli sambar with pure ghee and masala dosa
I miss sheru - the dog in front of my house who I used to feed every day
I miss the madness of MG road, brigade road & commercial street
I miss sitting at my favorite CCD sipping iced mochachillo and reading John Grisham
I miss the irate auto wallas who just refused to go where I wanted to go
I miss the thrill of competing and winning awards at work
I miss the time I spent with my family when they visited
I miss my friends - Sumit, Abhijeet, Amit, Iya, Puja and my other colleagues from work

Dubai accident victim

2008-03-14T10:57:00.005+04:00

By now, half the world knows about the 250 car pile up on Abu Dhabi - Dubai highway.

As per the official stats:
Total cars involved in the accident: 250
No. of cars totally destroyed: 83
Total injured: 347
Total dead: 3 (official number!)

Off the 3 dead, one such person was Mohammad Salib Khan, 29, a bus driver. He was due to fly home to Pakistan on 20th March to meet his wife and 3 year old daughter Alina, who he had seen 2 yrs ago, on this last visit home! He had borrowed money for his expenses, done his shopping and had his ticket booked on a PIA flight to Peshawar. He got married 4 yrs ago and had visited his family only once. He was eager to meet his daughter because she had started speaking. He was supposed to be reunited with his family, he was supposed to fly on 20th, happy and excited to - embrace his daughter, love his wife and take blessings from his mother!

Instead, he now goes in a box!

May his soul rest in peace. May Allah grant him all the pleasures of heaven. Amen.

p.s. I don't know him. Read about it in the papers. But I was deeply pained!

When I was a kid....

2008-03-13T17:26:00.003+04:00

Weird things I did/thought as a kid:

1. Looked at a digital clock ticker (where we don't see the seconds) and started counting seconds from 57...57, 58, 59 and saw if the clock ticked when I reached 60!!! If it didn't, then waited for a few seconds and again started from 57!!
2. A new born baby came out through the belly-button!
3. Day-dreamt (a LOT!) of how it would be if I were invisible!
4. Used to wonder whose voice is it in my mind - and also if people around could also here it.
5. If I was doing something (eg. having a bar of kitkat), could there be atleast one person somewhere in the world doing the exact same thing at the same time??
6. Why do we have to iron clothes??!!
7. Got my head stuck behind the TV while fetching a toy!
8. Stapled my own thumb!
9. Who the %#$&%#@ invented school?
10. Girls don't eat food!

Funny that these all sound so silly now but back then, this was me and my life!

I am sure there were lots more but its a pity that I can now remember only this many! :(

Compliments??? ;)

2008-03-03T17:25:00.001+04:00

Posting some comments that I received by folks who saw my wedding album..... :)

Ezhil: its so beautiful...she luks like a doll...man u r so lucky...ofcourse..u deserve her...have a wonderful life together..:)

Iya: Beautiful pics... great yaa... wish u the very best with Iram.. u guys look great together....

Amit: nice pics. Iram is looking beautiful and masood for some reason looking fairer :) wish you both a great life ahead

Sai: Great pics bro!! You guys look great together! Congrats!!! Let me know when you settle down and I shall call you.

Deepa: Congrats dude...wow...u both look so nice....ur wifey is damn beautiful..lucky u :-) looking forward to meet u ppl...hope u come to delhi sometime soon :-)

Tara: lovely pics :) the best is the one with the longest caption.. where you are carrying mrs salem to somewhere ;)

Sangeeta: awsome pics, your wife is really really preety... for sure you are lucky to get such a pretty wife, well tum bhi kaam nahi lag rahee hoo, most handsome perhaps in life till now. wish you both a wonderful life ahead full of all happiness of yours desire.

Tijs: sweet pictures!!! Really beautiful clothes and decorations. Awesome tie too that you were wearing at the reception. Just curious, are you not supposed to smile in pictures?

Puja: hey she is looking damn gorgeous, esp in the red, and blue one absolutely mind blowing. You also look dashing as usual. My fren who saw the pic complimented both of u :) wow that pic where you picked up Iram is damn cute.

Radhika: Lovely bride and good humor (urs!) ...u sure make a great couple :) ok now before u complain....u too look dashing! regal actually :)

Me: Thanks a lot, guys! :p

Part 2 - Singapore!

2008-02-28T09:03:00.008+04:00

Ok, so if you felt Malaysia was good, wait till you hear about Singapore!!! ;)

We took the train from KL to Singapore. I was told that the ride is very scenic. And we were not disappointed. The ride is about 6 hrs, through mountains, forests, rivers and towns. If you think the city is beautiful, wait till you see the countryside! We reached Singapore at around 3pm. Immigration formalities took about an hour. There was a friendly man named Lee holding a placard with 'Salem, Mr. and Mrs. Masood - Welcome to Singapore'. He gave us a kit with all vouchers (hotel, food, entry tickets etc), tour itinerary, emergency contact nos. etc. And we were on our way. The first evening was at our leisure. We were staying on Orchard road, which is the Mecca for shopping malls in Singapore. Think of any famous fashion designer or brand, and you could see their boutique/outlet there. We spent close to 2 hrs walking around...no, not to shop but hunting for an Indian restaurant!!! After 4 days of oriental & fast food, we were terribly Indian 'food-sick' (is that even a word?!). To our respite, we found one and, finally, ate to our heart's fill. Back on the street, our hunt now was for desserts! And, after 2 extra-large scoops of Ben & Jerry's ice cream, a thick strawberry cheesecake ice cream shake, it was time to hit the sack!

Our tour itinerary had the following mentioned for next day: "1.00 pm : Afternoon to Sunset tour of Sentosa Island". Who would have thought then that this was going to be the best damn afternoon of our tour!!! At 1pm sharp, as we got down to the hotel lobby, there was a large bus waiting for us outside. Sentosa is a small leisure island not too far from Singapore. We took the cable car (yes, lucky enough to, once again, get a chance!) to Sentosa.

Going towards Sentosa Island

This was on our left

First up, we had visit to the Singapore Museum. Now, this is not just any other museum, where you find weird stuff put on walls or on show. This place is a walk through history. Every event in Singaporean history is recreated in wax structures. Something like Madam Tussuad's wax statues - only difference is, this museum has not restricted itself just with human beings! Heck..they even recreated war torn Singapore! And with sound effects!!! It was amazing.

Singapore being 'signed'!

Hindu ritual of walking on burning coal

A typical market place in Singapore in 1920s

Next, trip to the underwater world. As the name suggests, it is a GIANT walk-through aquarium. With us in a narrow tube, water in all four directions, it was breathtaking!!

Underwater world

From the underwater world, our next stop was for the Dolphin show. Need I say more?!

After which, we stopped for the Musical fountain/fireworks/laser show. Again, need I say more!

It was 10pm by the time we were back to our hotel, after a wonderful and memorable day.

We had a half day Singapore city tour scheduled next morning from 8am!!! Instead, we went shopping to the most popular shopping center in Singapore called Mustafa market. And the evening was our trip for the Night Safari. Another adventurous experience hanging around the forest at night within close proximity of wild as well as domesticated animals. After dinner, we were back to the hotel and started with our packing! Our return flight was next morning at 11.15am.

Honeymoon - A dream in Malaysia and Singapore (Part 1)

2008-02-24T16:37:00.012+04:00

And what a week we had! We booked a honeymoon package for 7 nights/8 days with 4 nights in Malaysia and 3 in Singapore. Our tour operator had every single detail taken care off including tickets, visas, hotel accommodation, pickup and drop, sightseeing, food etc etc. So, all we really needed to do was....just be there!!

We flew from Chennai on 3rd late night for Kuala Lumpur (KL). Landed early morning and in an hour were on our way to Genting. Quick note here: At KL airport, we had to take the internal train to move from the arrival section to the exit....the airport is that HUGE!!! So back to Genting, this is a small city located at approx. 3000 feet, on top of a mountain - almost in and above the clouds. Genting city is just a collection of 4-5 resorts, all interconnected. They have an outdoor & indoor theme park, shopping malls, restaurants, cable cars, bowling alleys, cinema halls, snow world, concert halls etc. No wonder it is also known as 'The city of Entertainment'. What truly amazed me was how colorful and bright everything was. And the view from our room was breathtaking!

View from our room...

Down below, far away, peeping through the clouds we could see KL city, the Petronas towers, the KL tower etc.

2 days in Genting was filled with lots of fun and shopping. Not to forget our first experience on Asia's fastest and longest cable car. It was just WOW! Awana is another city located on a mountain and the cable cars connect both of them. At 3000 feet, with only the sky above, tropical rain forests below, clouds all around - it was breathtaking!!!

From our cable car

For 45 min, we felt we were 'out-of-this-world'!!! Next, we visited the Snow World. The following day was Chinese new year (The year of the Rat). So we had fireworks, dances, live music on the streets that midnight.

It was cold, misty and windy. And we were out till 3am, strolling, hand in hand, relishing the moment, and trying to live our entire lives that night, with each passing minute!

Next day, at noon we checked out of hotel and were on our way to KL. The ride downhill was, again, mind-blowing. KL was like any other international city - skyscrapers, hotels, restaurants, pubs, gardens, history, cultural centers etc. We were so shell-shocked by our experience in Genting that KL almost went unnoticed...almost! Because no one can NOT notice the great Petronas Towers!!!!

With a height of 1500 feet, 88 stories of sheer engineering marvel, the twin towers are just sight to behold, standing tall with unabashed arrogance, intimidating and daunting! Not too publicized though, is the KL tower, which is the 4th tallest telecommunication tower in the world with a height of 420 meters (1380 feet).

The twin towers and KL tower

We visited the observation deck, which was 280 meters, that gave a birds-eye view of the entire city.

Twin towers as seen from the observation deck on KL Tower

The KL tower also boasts of the highest McDonalds outlet in the world, and yes, we had a couple of burgers too!!

Next: Part 2 - Singapore!!! :)

Happy :)

2008-02-21T13:00:00.004+04:00

Leading up to the wedding, I had so much to write (read: share) and now that its over, I am almost blank! It has been an overwhelming last 30 days for me. I got married (duh!), hosted a reception, went on a dream honeymoon, attended numerous parties hosted on our behalf, lived for a few days with my in-laws, left my wife back at her place, traveled back to Dubai and now am back to work - all in a span of 1 month!

Close to 4 months back, in my first post, I was confused, not sure to feel happy or scared or nervous. But I can, confidently and with pride, state that I am happy! :)

Mr. and Mrs. Masood Salem

2008-02-19T12:34:00.004+04:00

For more than one reason, I had to take this pic off but I have created an album online and would be glad to share it :)

Expectations

2008-01-15T13:33:00.000+04:00

Why do we feel bad when things don't happen the way we planned? Is it because we have a kept unrealistic expectations? or is it because people, on whom you base your expectations, just screw up? Or is it because we always want things to be perfect or close to it atleast, which is a unrealistic expectation, coz nothing can be perfect! Or can it be? So, should we keep expectations? Not meeting them leads to dissatisfaction, pain, agony, depression. And meeting them leads to exactly the opposite of what I just typed. But is it worth it? Putting ourselves into a situation where the probability of failure and success is exactly the same - is it worth it? What if we don't keep any expectations? Every time something works out, it will be a moral victory. If it doesn't, well, we couldn't care less! We didn't bother. But keeping expectations, 'good' expectations, is heartening, gives you something to look forward to, something to dream about, something to wait for, coz the sheer fulfillment of those expectations is blissful. And what if our expectations are very realistic, hardly out of the ordinary, and still aren't fulfilled, for reasons that we cannot control or influence?

So, is there a trade-off? What is the trade-off?

Yipee!!

2008-01-04T11:21:00.000+04:00

A major task preceding the wedding got taken care of yesterday: The Suit! :) Yes, I bought my suit last night and what a beauty it is! For weeks I had imagined what it was going to be and often wondered if I'd ever find one like that. But yesterday I did! :) Massimo Dutti had an exact replica of my imaginative suit. I took, at most, 7-8 min, after trying it on, to decide I was going to buy it, despite the obscene price tag attached to it, which I conveniently decided to ignore! :p. My bro thought it was made for me. And about an hour later, we walked out of the store, me absolutely delighted (read: on top of the world!) on my latest addition (almost - it gets delivered to me on Monday) to my wardrobe. And did I mention, I also bought my shoes - a pair of Steve Madden, which I felt went beautifully with my suit.

So, all in all, it was a very productive (that also got me on the verge of bankruptcy!) evening of shopping. I still have some more to do but what remains is just the tip of the iceberg!

05 Jan 08: Quick update - I purchased my sherwani today!!! Now I feel I am really going to get married! Got it at a good bargain price. After trying it on, I got my first compliment as well, which was by Ruhi, who said, "Now you really look like a Dulha!". And, ofcourse, I love it! :)

when will it end?

2007-12-31T00:19:00.000+04:00

Why do the demons of the past still haunt me? Why can't they leave me alone? What do they want from me? What do they gain by traumatizing me? Do they have a purpose? What could that be?

How do I fight with myself? Who wins? Me or me?!?

I thought I had conquered my fears, fought my demons, and won! I thought I had won but that was just an illusion. I am still fighting and some one has to loose.

When will it end?

is this normal??

2007-12-26T16:46:00.000+04:00

Now I feel I am really getting married!!! And frankly, it is making me quite anxious. A lot goes behind organizing a wedding, most of which I don't personally have to worry about or do, but it still needs to be done. What if something goes wrong? What if.....? What if....? Things...thoughts keep pouring into my head. I am trying my best to keep cool, to be positive. Is this normal? I ask this to all the married folks out there - is this normal??

Thanks guys :-)

2007-12-08T19:03:00.000+04:00

I was supposed to write about something else but I just can't help myself.

As we all know, the wedding is scheduled for 25th Jan and reception on 27th. And one of the things that I am waiting most for is meeting all my friends. And what even makes me happier is most of them are, hopefully, going to make it :-) Sumit is going to join me on 24th afternoon from Kolkata and will be with me throughout the wedding and reception. Varun plans to reach Hyd on 26th from Ahmedabad and will be with me at the reception. Iya, Abhijeet and Puja plan to reach Hyd on 27th morning from Bangalore. Amit is flying in from Delhi. Nilesh has a tentative plan as well. Other guys like Abhishek, Radhika etc are already stationed in Hyd. So far, these guys have confirmed! :-)

All I can say is that, with my best friends by my side, they are going to make this the most memorable day of my life! Thanks a lot, guys! :-) Looking forward to seeing you all....soon! Actually....can't wait!!!!!!!

What a day....

2007-12-03T13:34:00.000+04:00

So Friday was my last full day in Dublin and I wanted to make the most of it. It was also the assessment day so we had some presentations and written tests to see if the training was any good at all or was it just a 'free' costly vacation for some of us! I did OK I guess. I won the award for the 'Best Presentation'. Written assessment followed and I scored an overall 89% which was 2nd in class. So the day was indeed going well.

By 4pm, I started walking back to my apartment, my last walk on a now very familiar path. And I was talking photographs to capture everything forever.

Just outside the office - on the right, can see only the edge of my office bldg.

The entire block from the right are the Oracle bldgs

As we walk further away! The entire Eastpoint Business Park is spread out next to the sea

This is my favorite pic!

Our walking path was right along the edge of that sea

And through housing colonies

And finally to our apartment block - Ashbrook

Walking into Ashbrook

And that is the building where I stayed!

Next post: The best evening of my life!