Freak-a-boo

A New Social System

2008-12-29T09:03:00.000-08:00

The current industrial and profit driven capitalist society has wrought irreparable devastations unto the world. The media and the political systems (Democracy or whatever!) are mere instruments of multinational enterprises to reduce human beings into foolish consumers.

The primary flaw is this system is that the whole world is viewed as a market where everyone competes for their pie. Ordinary humans spend their lives craving for more money that would help them buy new products. In many respects, we are systematically converted into slaves of these industrial commodities. The wonders of science have been reduced to mere essentials.

It would be better for us as a species if we stick to our basic needs. It must be understood that everything else beyond our basic needs are superficial. It has only trapped us in a vicious circle of needs and wants.

What's the outcome of this profit driven industrial society? Two World Wars, climatic changes, pollution, chemical weapons, the napalm bomb, terrorism? It would only need a single person to release a napalm bomb and end this world.

Then why not just do away with it? Human greed and jealousy is at its worst in the present society. And it's only natural because this system rewards the one who brings maximum profits.

I can't foresee a peaceful world where everyone would produce only as much as is required for humans to live a life of dignity. Everyone would work according to ones capability. The world would be a single community. All surplus (except food and clothing) would be destroyed for it's the surplus produce that gives a chance for businesses to flourish and reap profits. That's where greed and all its allies come to play. People would be happy with the simple pleasures of life. This is good for humankind and all other kinds that tread this world.

Can we do it? Of course we can. We only need to STOP buying anything beyond our basic needs. Imagine if the entire world's population stops buying these commodities. That would solve more than half of the world's problems. When you stop buying, you stop thinking about money. The importance of money would be lost forever. I'm sure we can produce enough to sustain everyone in a neighborhood.

Balls to Consumerism

2008-12-27T02:11:00.000-08:00

Industrialization has opened the gates for the world's demise. I would love to go back to nature. I want to live the way humans lived before the industrial revolution, with little false needs. Just plenty of love and togetherness.

The present world is such that we are forced to spend our lives in material pursuits. Capitalism has transformed us human beings into mere consumers. Just consumers. The media is an instrument that sees to it that we remain consumers.

What have become of us? Our goal was to enjoy life, behold nature's beauty, cherish the blue skies and crisp air, play in the sun, swim in the lakes and live in harmony with nature. And what do we do? We only keep ourselves busy with the products of capitalism. Humans have made a wasteland of this world. They invented the napalm bomb. They are the biggest criminals in history.

Alas! The ones whom I love do not understand this. And I cannot live without them. I'm doomed to rot in this wasteland. That's my greatest regret.

Def Leppard Postpones India Tour: Pouring Rain Over the Parade

2008-04-23T07:19:00.000-07:00

As rock heads from all over India gear up for Def Leppard's maiden tour to the country, the band has announced that the guys are pouring rain over the parade all over! True. The shows, earlier scheduled for May 16th and 18th in Bangalore and Mumbai have been postponed untill fall.

Amidst all the excitement, somebody eavesdropped me about their set list. Here you go:

01. Rocket
02. Animal
03. Let’s Get Rocked
04. Foolin’
05. Mirror Mirror
06. Nine Lives
07. Love Bites
08. (Bass Solo)
09. Rock On
10. Two Steps Behind
11. Bringin’ on the Heartbreak
12. Switch 625
13. Hysteria
14. Armageddon It
15. Photograph
16. Pour Some Sugar on Me

Encore:
17. Rock of Ages

But the new dates are yet to be finalised. In wake of all the disappointment, how could the British rockers expect the Indian babes to POUR SOME SUGAR on 'em?

21st Century Metal Act: Sickman Inc

2008-04-15T12:18:00.000-07:00

As sick as the name might sound, the band's sound is not dull from the minutest tonal perspective.

Sickman Inc. is a one-man Electro-industrial Metal act, led by Chiranjeev Kolita. The sound is a refreshing break from the existing genres within the institution of metal.

Chiranjeev is driven by an indomitable passion for originality and innovation in music. And the result is obvious. I haven't found a band that sounds similar to Sickman Inc.

I'm proud of you, Kolta!

After dabbling in a number of experiments in form of Third Eye (now defunct), Question of Fate (now defunct), Phase Damage (now defunct) and Sweet Ashley , Chiranjeev has got his sound right.

Sickman Inc is the result of his more than a decade of experimentation with thrash metal, industrial metal and electronic music.

Sick Singles:

1. Prayer: Listen and Download

2. Mindkiller: Listen and Download

3. Untitled: Listen and Download

4. Release: Listen and Download

Influences: NIN, Prong, Fearfactory, Deftones, Pitchshifter etc.

Are We Always Right?

2008-03-07T12:09:00.000-08:00

Of late, one of my closest friends is going through a dark phase of her life. Most of the time she's either in a dilemma, confused state or emotional stress. Being so close friends, she confides in me and finds an outlet to her frustrations.

Unfortunately, my words, suggestions and advise are going right down the gutter. i'm still unable to comfort her, forget about bringing up a true, unbiased and fair picture of reality in front of her.

However, in my efforts, I've come to some very interesting self realizations and eye openers about my own life. I'm listing 'em down:

1. When it comes to taking decisions, we're always caught up in moral or practical dilemmas, and the eternal questions of "right" and "wrong". In this case, what we need to do is turn inward, find out what is important for us and act without considering the aspects of "right" and "wrong". "Right" and "wrong" are situational. What is inappropriate for us today is not going to be the same for the rest of our lives. Situations keep changing and so does life. Spring follows winter, whether you go to the church or not. The point I want to make is that life takes its own course. As time slips by, new opportunities knock at the door. So, we shouldn't cry over spilled milk or regret about lost opportunities. All that we need to do is ACT, without considering the outcomes.

2. Our life is measured by the number of hours, days, weeks and months when we're happy and at peace, and not by the level of success or the fat bank balance that we make. Happiness and success are NOT relative. So, we want to do what keeps us happy and not what is "right".

Fetish & Laughter - Funny Signboards

2008-02-19T01:38:00.000-08:00

India brags more English speakers than the US. Let's see what happens when English meets the Indian semi-urbania!

At a Beer Shop: CHILD BEAR [Don't mistake it for new brew! They Forgot the other "L" and "E", and replaced another "E" with an "A". So "Chilled Beer" is "Child Bear"!!!]

At a Barber's Shop: Haircut for Rs 15.00 - Children for Rs 10.00

On a Dry Cleaner's Window: Anyone Leaving Their Garments Here For More Than 30 Days Will Be Disposed Of!!

And Here's Another:

An Ad for a Sales Executive [Don't mistake it for a Salsa]!!!

Timo Tolkki's Saana: Can't Wait Anymore!

2008-02-13T05:11:00.000-08:00

"Saana - Warrior of Light Part 1: Journey to Crystal Island". That's the only thing that I'm waiting for. I just read that Timo's running four months behind schedule. But who cares! I'd wait for a lifetime for this classical rock opera, as Timo puts it, and incidentally the first of its kind in the history of rock music.

The almost-one-hour multimedia masterpiece (I'm already assuming that this is going to be a masterpiece; I dig every note erupting from Timo's fret!) will have music and a full all region bonus DVD that contains the whole story in film format as well. Additionally, there are perks such as a new interview of Timo Tolkki, revealing his past, present and future.

Tolkki, along with talents like Jennifer Sowle, Aino Laos, Heikki Poyhiä and Janette Sainio, is taking Metal to such a height of emotional catharsis, which has never been conceived before!

And the Best Metal Performance Grammy Goes To...

2008-02-11T22:32:00.000-08:00

Guess! Who deserves this so much? There could be dozens of possibilities, no? But man, this time it's mighty SLAYER! The metal Gods were nominated for for their "Final Six", a track that appeared on the "Christ Illusion" Limited Edition disc. Tom and Hanneman wrote this song, but I can't believe that Kerri doesn't have his definitive bloody-axe-weilding hand on it!

Not Just a Job Change

2008-02-10T23:29:00.000-08:00

"Change is not easy". But I never knew it would be this much hard! I never felt so uncomfortable, lost and hopeless at a new workplace. I'm a corporate geek at his worst! This time I gotta start on this negative note, I have no choice.

I hurled myself away from a comfort zone, a work place that I used call a "vacation". Let me see how I behave now. Damn it's taking a toll! My change of job was not out of necessity, but because of my love for experimenting with life.

Outside the workspace, it's quite cool! A lot of pub hopping and beer blast! Last Saturday we stepped into a pub called Styx. Jesus! It's the kind of place that we used to dream about! From "Pain Killer" to "Master of Puppets", "Trooper" to "Train of Consequences", "Roots" to "Reign In Blood", Styx really kicks ass! This is perhaps the only hope for me in Bangalore!

How Green Was My City

2008-01-25T01:27:00.000-08:00

This morning I woke up and realized how hopelessly I've come away from nature. I can't even remember how it feels like walking on a lush carpet of grass, tipped with the morning dew.

I haven't seen red earth for a while. I can only see a gazillion monostrous concrete structures swarming all over. I haven't seen the horizon for years. How obnoxious for a person who grew up amidst rolling hills and meandering streams!

Cities after cities, packed with millions of pretentious humans, each scrambling for material pleasures - they only leave me with disappointment. Corporates roll out swanky and flashy new motors each day. The end objective is to make more money. The CEOs nurture a secret desire to be the next richest guy in the world!

Our narrrow streets are crammed with vehicles, all leaving behind a trail of disastrous chemicals. We're deprived of clean and crisp air, which is indispensable for the survival of life on earth.

This is a breezy third world metro. They say we're are a developing country. They're building infrastructure at the cost of verdant forests, shady trees and lush undulating hills. Our rivers are contaminated. Our ground water is toxic. And do I need to talk about the digital waste? We live in a garbage heap!

Post-stoned state Video Post: Eagle Heart- Stratovarius

2007-09-30T01:41:00.000-07:00

Here comes the gods of power metal! Stratovarius, keep the flames alive!!

Alone Again- Dokken: Weekend Video Post

2007-09-23T06:32:00.000-07:00

Let the Weed times Roll!

2007-09-23T05:08:00.000-07:00

I almost gave up cannabies when I thought I'd never return from my state of overdoze that night! I didn't smoke a whiff for months. I believed that DXM or codeine phosphate was always a better option. After all, it's so easy to access. No? Just go to your chemist, pay him well and ask for *****. You're on for the night.

But two weeks back, I started with cannabies all over again. It gave me a good high and I took full advantage of it to create some good riffs and solos. That was a different day for sure. I could feel it every breathe.

After slogging my butt at work for the whole day, it leaves me with no power to pick up my guitar and start shredding once i'm back in my bedroom. Pause. I don't slog at work, never. I love my work. That's kind of a vacation that keeps me engaged for the day and lets me survive and grow as a professional. But that's another mask to my character. The stage was set the day I was born; now I'm left to play all my roles, all to perfection.

I have chosen the path of weed, I gotta play my part. weed is my only friend when i'm lonely. Can I ever turn back? Let it go on for some more years, until my body will no more be able to take it. no resistance, no remorse! let the weed times roll!

Banned from the Blog? Just a Break

2007-08-15T09:37:00.000-07:00

Of late, I've noticed I've been really irregular to my freak blog. Before that, I did injustice to the posts/entries by not speaking my heart. Today, I woke up late only to be overwhelmed by feelings of guilt and angst. These days my mind remains empty, the gift of my spiritual practices. In such a state, I'm surrounded by happiness and joy even at the most insignificant event or object of nature. I just don't feel like coming back to the blog and search for ideas. In such a situation, I think I'm going to be banned from the community, for I won't be contributing anything worthwhile! Just taking a break!

Friday Special- Yngwie Malmsteen's Rising Force

2007-07-20T10:37:00.001-07:00

Just thought I'd post one of my favorite Yngwie videos of all times!!

A Chunk from Metal Camp 2007, Tolmen, Slovenia

2007-07-10T10:02:00.000-07:00

Date: July 16- 22, Place: Tolmen, Slovenia

The Biggest Metal Competition in Europe, with the mainstage featuring Motorhead, Cradle of Filth, Sepultura, Immortal, you want more?? Check this video from the competition.
Tegan and Sarah Video

Add to My Profile | More Videos

Why did the Chicken Cross the Road?

2007-07-09T10:08:00.000-07:00

Question: Why did the Chicken Cross the Road?

Albert Einstein: Whether the chicken crossed the road or the road moved beneath the chicken depends on your frame of reference.

Darwin: Chickens, over great periods of time, have been naturally selected in such a way that they are now genetically disposed to cross roads.

Karl Marx: It was a historical inevitability.

Martin Luther King, Jr.: I envision a world where all chickens will be free to cross roads without having their motives called into question.

Machiavelli: The point is that the chicken crossed the road. Who cares why? The end of crossing the road justifies whatever motive here was.

A consultant: Deregulation of the chicken's side of the road was
threatening its dominant market position. The chicken was faced with significant challenges to create and develop the competencies required for the newly competitive market. Our consulting firm, in a partnering relationship with the client, helped the chicken by rethinking its physical distribution strategy and implementation processes. Using the Poultry Integration Model (PIM), we helped the chicken use its skills, methodologies, knowledge, capital and experiences to align the chicken's
people, processes and technology in support of its overall strategy within a Program Management framework. This was conducive towards the creation of a total business integration solution.

You: ??

Weirdo: Fire Fighters Smoke up 2000 pounds of Marijuana!!

2007-06-25T10:13:00.000-07:00

On June 21st, Firefighters in EDINBURG, Texas, spent half an hour fighting a blazing inferno in which 2,000 pounds of marijuana went up in smoke. Imagine being there and breathing the entire thing!! I could have been one of them, gosh!

Besides 1000 gallons of water, it took them 5 gallons chemical supprestant to douse the flames. Believ me, I can smell it!! Whenever somebody talks about marijuana, I get a whiff in the air; that's my love of cannabies.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are still investigating the origin of the "drugs"(!!).

The Yogi

2007-06-14T09:52:00.000-07:00

The body is the seat of illusion where nature enacts its play through our senses. The interplay of senses creates desires, leading to the delusion of the mind. Under such delusions, we become egoistic and thereby become attached to the modes and actions.

However, this body, which is forever caught up in the crossroads of materialistic pursuits, is source of liberation. The true yogi engages the organs and performs his actions without any desire, thereby wresting control over the body and mind and being detached mentally.

But this doesn't mean that one should practise sever asceticsm! One who tries to control the organs and senses outwardly without the inner reslove and detachment from the sense objects is just a hypocrite and the biggest loser.

If we're identifying ourselves with our external self, we're mistaken. The body is perishable and is a creation of the basic elements of life. It's the house of the soul, which is immortal. The yogi is conscious of the existence of the soul and works towards fixing the mind on this higher self and achieving true liberation!!

Back to the Blog

2007-06-06T10:25:00.000-07:00

After lot of deliberations on where to post (as I have 5 blogs), I decided that it's Freak-a-boo's day today. Vampirefaust advised me to write on things that I'm passionate about. That was a very good piece; thanks Vampire, you rock! I've been reading some of wonderwoman's wonderful stuff at disjointed intelligence.

Ok, I don't have much time. So, I thought I'd write a note on the things that you'll always find with me when I'm out the door...

1. My tiny Mp4 player cum digicam cum voice recorder: This keeps me busy, lets me take funny videos. It's loaded with ALL 80s stuff.

2. My Ciggys: Gives me company when I'm alone, which I'am most of the time.

3. The Matchbox: Come baby light my fire!

That's awwwwl!!!

Quick Video!! Winger- Miles Away

2007-05-25T10:40:00.000-07:00

I don't have a sec to post these days. I'd just add a video!!!

My Mind is Empty!!

2007-05-08T10:22:00.000-07:00

I've been trying to come up with a post, but can't find a good topic. I don't know how everyone does that. So, let me keep the blog rolling with a few quotes which goes very well with me:

"If you can't convince them, confuse them!!"

"Abused patience turns to fury!"

"Few can foresee whither their road will lead them, till they come to its end."

"You haven't lost your smile at all, it's right under your nose. You just forgot it was there." Did I forget to smile today?? Never!!!

Oy, oy, Isn't he too far away from the shore??

2007-05-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

Would you dare Kayaking??

I'm a Wild Child!!!

2007-05-01T07:57:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm a wild child. Perhaps wilder than Blackie Lawless, but WASP's Wild Child video is peerless!!! Here we go...

Two Quotes to Keep us Going!!

2007-04-27T04:43:00.000-07:00

“Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma...Don't let the noise of other's opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become." -- Steve Jobs

“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” -- Lao Tzu

Why Men are Hunters and Women the Gatherers??

2007-04-25T23:40:00.000-07:00

For almost ninety-nine per cent of existence humans have lived as hunter-gatherers. Given the two million year timeline, agriculture is very recent having arrived merely 10,000 years ago. Becuase of this long human existence much of our behavior in our various professional and domestic roles tend to be more reminiscent of such a hunter-gatherer existence.

Time, evolution, natural selection have essentially conditioned the mind and instinct of the two sexes. For instance, if a man had 10 wives he could have loads of children - his genes would be carried forward - the family name would be preserved. But this is not practicable for a woman.

Owing to the thousands of years of natural selection, males have tended to evolve as
aggresive and risk takers who often look at any and all opportunities while women tend to be far choosier about sharing genes. Women tend to look for a fit and healthy mate and one who is capable of providing adequate resources for sustenance. Isn't this similar to the hunter-gatherer societies of the primitive ages? What mattered then is the same that matters now. Women tend to be less aggressive, and more sensitive to the complexity of the issues at hand.

We know that several elements combine to shape a person's gender role, which is expressed through the way we dress up, our behavior, choice of work, personal relationships and other factors. Traditionally, gender roles were divided into strictly feminine and masculine gender roles. However, today, these roles have diversified into many different acceptable male or female gender roles.

Gender role norms for women and men can bear significant variations across cultures and geographies. Social groups and subcultures, too, can condition one's gender role. Historically, for instance, eunuchs had a different gender role because of their different biology.

A term associated with describing gender roles is androgyny, denoting the display of both male and female behaviour. A number of terms have emerged portraying behaviors arising in this context. For instance, the "sensitive new age guy" is described as a traditional "male" gender role with a more typically "female" empathy and correlated emotional qualities. The "metrosexual male" adopts or claims to be born with similarly "female" grooming habits. This have given rise to arguments in various quarters that such new roles are mere rebellion against tradition and hence do not form a distinct role.

Conventional feminine gender roles have become less relevant in Western societies. This trend is attributed to the starting of industrialization. Indeed, the notion that women do not follow a career is no more valid in a majority of Western and many of the Oriental societies.

For a long time now, gender roles have occupied a central place in the nature-nurture debate. Traditional theories argue that a person's gender identity, and thus gender role, is a product of nature. For instance, in patriarchal societies it is often claimed that women are naturally better placed to nurture children. Various circles in the scientific community have come to support the concept that differences in gender roles originate in differences in biology. Many nineteenth century anthropologists refer to the life of primitive hunter-gatherer societies for evolutionary explanations for gender differences. For instance, they assert that the need to take care of the offsprings may have limited the females' freedom to hunt and hence assume the role of the gatherer. Current trends in sociobiology and
evolutionary psychology tend to explain those differences in social roles by treating them as adaptations. However, like other approaches, this too has controversies inherent.

Simone de Beauvoir's feminist works and Michel Foucault's reflections on sexuality had far reaching impact on sociology and cultural anthropology of the 1980s. Their theories gave rise to the idea that gender was unrelated to sex. Thus, in many circles, the notion emerged that a person could therefore be born with male genitals but still be of feminine gender. In 1987, R.W. Connell embarked upon an extensive research on whether there are any connections between biology and gender role and concluded that there were none. However, Connell's research has come to be rejected by most scientists because there exists concrete evidence of the effect of hormones on behavior. A number of psychologists assert that the female brain is basically hard-wired for empathy, while the male brain is essentially hard-wired for understanding and building systems.

Current trends in Western societies toward men and women sharing similar occupations, responsibilities are suggestive of the fact that the sex one is born with does not directly condition one's abilities. In spite of the differences in average capabilities between the sexes, the capabilities of some members of one sex obviously fall within the range of capabilities needed for tasks conventionally assigned to the other sex.

More often women choose to be housewives than men enacting the role of "househusbands". Scientists attribute this to biology. However, feminists suggest that it is the result of socially constructed gender roles (as well as economic pressures). There are many who believe that behavioral differences are a result of both these factors. Some even argue that gender roles themselves are abstractions of overall differences between men and women. This esssentially gives rise to the concept of circularity and the idea of the social reinforcement of natural tendencies. The interactionist approach holds that roles, including gender roles are not fixed, rather they are constantly negotiated between individuals.

Talcott Parsons developed a model of the nuclear family in 1955, which compared a strictly traditional view of gender roles to a more liberal view. He opined that the feminine role was an expressive one, while the masculine role an instrumental one. As suggested by Parsons, the expressive activities of the women fulfill "internal" functions, for instance, strengthening family bonds. On the other hand, men performed the "external" functions of a family, such as providing monetary support. This bears semblance to the primitive hunter-gatherer tendencies.

Indeed, on many occasions, it may be argued that men and women act as hunters and gatherers. Men are hunters and protectors, and women are nurturers and gatherers. The differences between the sexes on matters of skills, customs, ways of thinking and communicating, can be traced back to prehistoric times when men were hunters and
women were gatherers. The consequences of these two separate roles are many.

Men, it may be argued, hardly notice anything, collect very few details and have only a limited ability to stay focused on one thing at a time. On the other hand, women notice a lot of things they consider important, gather details and can easily focus on accomplishing multiple tasks.

While women verbalize their thoughts and emotions, men tend to communicate through non-verbal means. This can also be attributed to the facts that since men were hunters they had to be quiet, so that they don't scare away the prey. As gatherers, women had to resort to frequent verbal communications in order to perform complicated tasks.

The differences can be attributed to the fundamentally distinct social roles as evolved over the aeons humans lived as a society of hunters and gatherers. Being hunters, men went out in a group, with their focus on one single goal� the kill. It might take them the whole day, quietly waiting in ambush, but eventually they would accomplish the task at hand, go back home and defend the cave.

As gatherers, women noticed everything about them, gathering both food and other details that would help them gather more things then and in the future. I guess, the same rule applies when we go out shopping. Men go into the store, sharply focused on getting the thing they need, and then go home. Women like to wander around, gathering all sorts of information, before buying the real thing
.
Even if the differences in intelligence prove to be genetically encoded, research shows four findings.

First, some women are better than most men at strategic thinking, and some men are better than most women at maintaining interpersonal relationships.

Next, social conditioning plays a decisive role in shaping individual development of these kinds of intelligence, even shaping the physical growth of nerves. This conditioning starts right after birth. When it is a male infant, adults direct greater focus on objects, while in case of a female infant the face receives greater focus. This disparate social conditioning results in measurable differences in the nerves and areas of the brain governing these different foci.

Third, whatever be the genetic endowment and individual history, the conditioning exerted by natural and social environments have a decisive impact on the
way individuals behave in communities.

Finally, even in communities where genetics, social conditioning, and environments lead to a predomination of one kind of behavior,individuals and the communities can and sometimes do learn to favor different patterns.

So, isn't it the social value systems, which are mainly responsible for gender roles? Men and women are made to behave the way they are. From childhood, they are expected to grow up to be powerful, independent, demanding, aggressive, good problem-solvers, and so on. Thus, men are expected and nurtured to strive for the kind superiority that was expected of primitive hunters. On the other hand, in most social systems, women are encouraged to be good mothers. Emphasis is given more on looks and charms than on strength.

Coming Home!!

2007-04-19T00:37:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm home again. I'm back to chains, leather and heavy metal!! My valley looks so fresh, draped in new foliage. I'm back on the highlands. It's mindblowing here. I jammed with my old band. We're still the same. Started off with Stratovarius' "Coming Home", dedicated to my homecoming, then had so much fun, with all solos, guitar, bass and drums!!! There's true Metal Blood running through our veins. Live for the attitude, not the music!!!!

So, here's Coming Home...

Sexualite is Fabulous!!!!

2007-04-12T10:23:00.000-07:00

Yes!!!! This blog is just amazing!!! Check out: http://www.chaosnoir.com
Anastasia has such an amazing hold on the topic!! My hat goes on and off, on and off!!!

Guess What!!!??

2007-04-12T10:16:00.000-07:00

I've found a new friend, a sweet one, yippeee!!! She calls herself wonderwoman. She describes herself as " I'm a 27 year old, single, working professional who loves to write. I love discovering new things-especially music and art. I'm full of interesting information and I'm constantly seeking new things to keep me thinking and entertained. I always have to be doing something. I'm a very social person and I like the diversity that can be found in the day to day". She's got a nice blog, too!!
http://disjointedintelligence.blogspot.com

Forever: A Metal Ballad by Stratovarius, must for all and sundry!!

2007-04-10T09:59:00.000-07:00

Like an Angel: Yngwie Malmsteen

2007-04-09T09:40:00.000-07:00

No, No!! Not Aliens...They're Just Like You and Me

2007-01-31T17:09:00.000-08:00

When the Igbos of eastern Nigeria declared themselves independent in 1967, Nigeria blockaded their fledgling country-Biafra. In three years of war, more than one million people died, mainly of hunger. In famine, children who lack protein often get the disease kwashiorkor, which causes their muscles to waste away and their bellies to protrude. War photographer Don McCullin drew attention to the tragedy. "I was devastated by the sight of 900 children living in one camp in utter squalor at the point of death," he said. "I lost all interest in photographing soldiers in action." The world community intervened to help Biafra, and learned key lessons about dealing with massive hunger exacerbated by war-a problem that still defies simple solutions. (- LIFE Magazine, retrieved from www.digitalartist.com)

If Marx had lived long enuff...

2007-01-31T16:42:00.000-08:00

"A hunger strike by 3,000 students in Beijing had grown to a protest of more than a million as the injustices of a nation cried for reform. For seven weeks the people and the People’s Republic, in the person of soldiers dispatched by a riven Communist Party, warily eyed each other as the world waited. When this young man simply would not move, standing with his meager bags before a line of tanks, a hero was born. A second hero emerged as the tank driver refused to crush the man, and instead drove his killing machine around him. Soon this dream would end, and blood would fill Tiananmen. But this picture had shown a billion Chinese that there is hope." (-The LIFE Magazine, taken from www.digitalartist.org)

Although LIFE glorified this image as one of the "100 photographs that changed the world", there's really no answer to the "Chinese" Communist Manifesto. Thousands of students were executed. Democracy is still a far cry. Where is hope...????

Heart of Steel- Manowar

2007-01-17T16:57:00.000-08:00

Build a fire a thousand miles away
To light my long way home
I ride a comet
My trail is long to stay
Silence is a heavy stone
I fight the world and take all they can give
There are times my heart hangs low
Born to walk against the wind
Born to hear my name
No matter where I stand Im alone

Stand and fight
Live by your heart
Always one more try
Im not afraid to die
Stand and fight
Say what you feel
Born with a heart of steel

Burn the bridge behind you
Leave no retreat
Theres only one way home
Those who laugh and crowd the path
And cut each others throats
Will fall like melting snow
Theyll watch us rise with fire in our eyes
Theyll bow their heads
Their hearts will hang low
Then we'll laugh and they will kneel
And know this heart of steel was
Too hard to break
Too hard to hold

Stand and fight
Live by your heart
Always one more try
Im not afraid to die
Stand and fight
Say what you feel
Born with a heart of steel

Master of the Wind

2007-01-14T03:24:00.000-08:00

The Fallen One

2007-01-14T03:10:00.000-08:00

Mad Pics!!

2007-01-07T13:18:00.000-08:00

This Lonely Night!!

2006-12-16T11:05:00.000-08:00

It's half past mid-night, I'm out today...after all it's weekend blast. But am I havin' a blast? Of course not, from a media-centric view point. So, whadda fuck if I'm not in a rock pub or a disco!! I don't want to be with the bunch of posers and escapists. They'll talk as if they know everything. They'll give opinons aired by their newspaper editor this morning, or an ass f&%$# journalist hunting for news; so what's new? They'll request their favorite song...the song has to be a latest TV hit!!!They're bent on showing off that they're hip, they're happening, they're so cool...after all, they have to impress the girls sitting, dancing, next to them!!They've lost their power of judgment...they're led by the media.

An hour ago, I was walking under the starlit sky. It's so wonderful! I love the mysteries of the night. The night lures me to sleep all day! Things look so beautiful under the moon beam. The green leaves dancing with the wind, the gushing streams, the meandering rivers...no, the leaves are not so green. It's the winter of their life...they'll fall when they're totally brown. Then why do people associate the color black to death? Why not brown? What has black got to do with death or sorrow? During winter, when the leaves are brown, they start to fall. Winter bears allusion to our old age. So, from today, let brown be the color of death and decay! I love black...anything black sells for me. Except my good old guitar, she's red, apple red, to be precise. Why? It's so simple, it's a passion, it's a fire...

My guitar maybe my passion, but, this big "but" turns things topsy turvy for those who expect me to record my next song! I'm yet to find a vocalist for the first one. I've not started the hunt yet. I hate it when some friends call me a musician, because I'm not. I don't want music to be my profession, I don't like that lifestyle. I play for myself, I don't entertain requests. I play when I'm blue, I play when I'm happy...my bedrom is my shell!! I'm just a fretfire flasher...not a musician. Then is it that the red guitar is not a passion and just a friend of mine, who I turn to when I'm blue?? Maybe...who knows? not me!!!

Why am I so lonely tonight? I have all my friends with here me. But tonite, my heart is longing for the love that I lost two months back. This burning heart of mine can be so slippery at times, I never knew! Her memories are fading away, but somewhere in a corner, she'll be there forever...I saw here photograph today. It's lying there is her Hi5 profile. I know I'l be fine...this pain is sweet.

Still a heart of steel!!!

Rush...Don't Brood!!!

2006-12-14T15:57:00.000-08:00

I spent my entire Sunday, meaninglessly brooding on my sixth fling relationship, which lies in the graveyard of memories. I totally REGRET this. I could have gone to the CD store or visit one of my friends. I have loads to do on weekends, yet, most weekends are just a drab. I could have washed my dirty jeans and sweat shirts or restore some order in my disorganized room, mopped the floor...but the water is too damn COLD these days. Thank lord! I shampooed my hair on Saturday and this kept me going for this whole week.

But I don't want to end half way with what I've started. It's better rush to the end of the story...

In NewDelhi:

We booked a hotel room close to the New Delhi railway station. It was 12:30 at night and the street was still bustling with locals and foreigners, specially those Central Asian girls who're ready spend a night in exchange of flesh and wine!!! I haggeld with hotel manager and snatched a fair deal. Initially, he asked for 800 INR per night, but we setteld for 500 INR. I'm a great haggler, you see!

Sightseeing Chandigarh, and the 5 hour journey left us totally exhausted...she threw her backpack on the cozy bed and rushed for a shower, while I waited outside. I wish I could join her. But the washroom was too small; can you imagine a bath tub there! After her, it was my turn. When I came back, I found her taking the corks off the beer bottles!!! Time to invoke bacchus!!...We finished four lager beers. I ran my fingers down hersilky soft black hair; we were getting closer and closer and closer until I pulled her gently and by her hair and kissed her pink lips. We kept sucking and biting...no, not for a minute, two or three...Maybe for 10,20,30...minutes...heading for a world record for the longest kiss...we could have easily beaten the French, it's easy!! After all, "there's a slice of heaven in a woman's lips"...I whispered this into her ears...then... we surrendered to the mystery of the night.

Morning came, and with it her phone call. It was afternoon, to be precise. It somehow fell on her aunt's ears that she came out with me...maybe one of her jealous friends bitched about her. Aunt wanted her back in Chandigarh immediately!!...But we wanted togetherness. We slipped into our dresses, hired a rick and off we went to India Gate. Spent time on the grass under the shady treees, exchanged ice creams, kept talking, and watching the morning swiftly heading towards afternon! Next stop was Dilli Haat...she did colorful designs on her hands, we bought gifts for each other and wandered about the premises, peeping into the kiosks, gazing at the unique papier mache, and other stuff..The day was almost over by now. We headed for Chandigarh that night. I dropped her at the ISBT and returned back. I called her up on reaching New Delhi and she was just fine. Of course, because she was yet to garner courage and meet her aunt...Next day I joined my new workplace. It was splendid!! I called her up at mid night and ...gosh!!!!her father was already there!!! He's to take her back home...to look after her two months old brother. She has to GO!!! We're doomed...

I felt sad, I felt like crying...but my emotions lay frozen in an icy lake. I couldn't cry!! I don't know what shen was going thru'...for sure, her world fell crashing down like broken glass. Not because I lost her! I was sad because her situation was worse.

After Thought

I think I draw a strange pleasure whenever I disembark on a Heartbreak Station!!! It was the sixth of its kind and now it feels so SWEET. Remember Shelley?

"Our sweetest songs are those that tell of saddest thought"

As if it rings totally true for me!!!

Love Gone Wild, Love Gone Blind...

2006-12-11T12:02:00.000-08:00

Chandigarh Bound

The journey was grueling, but there's little I could do with an wallet, which is next to empty. In fact, I had to put on the garb of a spartan. I couldn't think about anything beyond Mahruaii. I'm going to see her this time. I'm used to traveling by these old and rickety local buses because I always prefer the cheapest means of transport available. I'm concerned with the end result and this time it's Mahruaii. No wonder, I got away with just 135 INR. The same trip would have cost me not less than 450 INR if I had opted for those super luxurious Volvo buses. I was happy. After all, I'm living on a shoestring budget.

New Delhi- Chandigarh highway is one of the best roads I've traveled in India. On the highlands, where I belong, the roads are bumpy. We get a ROLLER COASTER RIDE FREE with every trip!! But this is an urban serenade; smooth concrete streets, fast cars, neon lights, plush neighborhoods, and mad scrambles for...almost everything. The people are always running places for one thing or other; lord knows why they're so busy. I tend to compare them with robots, shorn of their emotions.

Life is easy on the highlands. In the evenings, we'd gather at the street side tea-shops, sip for 2,3,4...hours and go on talking; talk idle, talk nonsense, talk about the revolution-gone-wild, talk about music...ah! Music has been my Lifeforce. Here, they don't even have time to pause for a deep breath. I can't see the horizon here. The concrete jungle always frustrates my views. The highlands have clear blue skies, lush vegetation and songbirds singing their reverie. Here, it's the honking horns of vehicles and their roaring engines that make the music of the day.

From New Delhi, it took me almost 5 hours to reach Chandigarh. The highway was flanked by the contrasting features of wheat fields, grazing spots and urban sprawls. Not quite a wonderful sight for one who's used to seeing the rolling hills and the rushing streams. The bus was stuffed with people. They were jostling for space and talking very loud. Some of the less fortunate ones, who didn't get space inside the bus clinged to the door. We halted for a short break at one of the highway eateries, my mind was not set on food. I hadn't eaten a thing since morning. When the bus entered the parking lot, it excited clouds of dust to rise up and envelop everything around. I couldn't stifle a sneeze.

I got off the bus and lighted my trusted Wills Navy Cut cigarette, while my co-travelers hastened to the noisy eatery to secure a table for themselves. Navy Cut has been a companion to me since my high-school days, and unlike most smokers, I never think about quitting, not even in my wildest imaginations! There was a time when I smoked a lot of pot, cannabies, haashih...the wonder weed!! But now, it's only Navy Cut. I relished till the last particle of nicotine, and got back to my seat, waiting for the others to come. The driver hopped into his seat after some 15 minutes and honked for three times. Everyone has to get inside within that brief period, else miss the bus. So, they all hurried back to the bus, with their tummies half-empty. Finally, we're on the road again. I had occupied the window seat. I opened the window glass to let in the cool breeze, which lured me to close my eyes and escape into the lap of sleep.

Suddenly, I woke up to a vibration in my pocket. Yes, it was a text message on my cell phone. It was from Mahruaii..."whr hv u reached honey? I'm almst ready n m nt takn a big luggage. Reachin' ISBT in 20 mins. Can't wait 2be wth U. love u so so much!" It was almost 1400 hrs and the bus was just entering Chandigarh city. The wait is almost over! We've waited for two months and couldn't take it any more. I was already at the exit door before the bus had reached the terminus. So, as soon as it stopped, I was the first one to get off, nay jump off.

The Second Time We Met, Part I

The place was less crowded than I had expected. There were small queues at the ticket counters, bustling coffee shops and eateries, and there were backpacks, briefcases and steel trunks lying everywhere. What a typical Inter State Bus Terminus! Nothing was missing, not even those street children running after everyone for a few coins. I saw one of them approaching me. He knew it well that I was a new guy in town; they study people so closely. I guess my long hair and weird dress sense gave him the edge. It's incomprehensible for me why a lot of people consider me as someone out-of-this-world. Why do they have to be so pokey about my hair, my ragged and torn jeans, my black band t-shirts, and everything about me. I'm just a simple normal guy.

Before he could say anything I took out a 2 INR coin and gave it to him. He went away happily, and I was even happier. They're the less privileged children of the poorest working class. They don't go to school, they don't play with soft toys and they don't live in cozy homes. They spend their day waiting for some softhearted people to give a few coins to them, so that they can see the next morning light. Isn't it unjust of their parents to give birth to them if they don't have the means to take care of them? Isn't it a crime against childhood?

Mahruaii was supposed to be somewhere around. I looked around for her, bumping into almost every stranger who came on my way. My razor-sharp eyes didn't miss a single facet in their faces. We've met only once, but I still remember every nuance in her face. Her innocent eyes, those pink lips and rosy cheeks and a smile that would sweep any guy off his feet. My pre-paid card crossed its validity period and I couldn't make a call, nor send any text to her. A few meters away there was a local phone booth colored in yellow, which was surprisingly empty. I rushed towards it, hoping to capture the phone before anyone else could do that.

I dropped the coin and dialed Mahruaii's number. It rang only once and I heard the familiar "hello" from the other side. She was waiting for my call in all her excitement. ‘Hey, where are you? I've reached ISBT and I'm unable to locate you." The words came out as I gasped for breath. "I'm here at the ISBT. Which booth are you calling from?" She replied back. I could feel the thrill in her voice. I'm so used to her voice. For all these months we've only been communicating over the telephone. Sometimes she'd ring me up at 2'o clock in the dead of the night and we'd go on till morning. "I'm calling from this booth...ummm...yellow in color". I answered back, trying to explain her how the booth looked like. "Wait, and hang on. Don't go anywhere." Her voice reached my ears. Not just from the phone. It was somewhere in the air.
I turned back and...YAY!!! She was there...standing face to face. She looked very fresh; was wearing dark blue denim, a red-n-white striped top and white sneakers and carrying her tiny backpack. My little girl, little in the sense, she was younger to me by 5 years. Since we said goodbye at the New Delhi Railway Station on the night of 6 June this year, this is the first time we're meeting. Time now is, the afternoon of August 7th.

That night, I could see it in her innocent eyes. It was love! Love at the first meeting. How I longed for such a wonderful thing to happen to me. She was the sixth girl who fell in love with me. Each of the earlier times, I'd say to myself, "She is my last love. I won't lose her this time." But destiny always had other plans. Things would go wrong at both ends. And finally we'd SPLIT!!! Yet, I've been in very good terms with most of my ex-girlfriends. I loved all of them with a heart so pure. And now I really respect them for the good times we shared, for what they are. I know it's easy to love someone, but it's so hard to maintain that relationship, especially when mutual needs are different.

The First Time We Met...

She was on her way back from Aizawl to Chandigarh to attend her second year graduation classes after spending the entire summers at home. I always had a fascination for Aizawl. After all, it's the most beautiful town in Northeast India, although the Shillong city would give it a tough time vying for that coveted position. My Guwahati is a typical metropolis, the only city of this kind in the entire region. Being the gateway to this region, everyone has to pass the city in order to reach mainland India. We were traveling in the same compartment in the Northeast Express, the super fast train connecting Guwahati to New Delhi. She occupied the berth next to me. My purpose was to get back my belongings from my friend's place in New Delhi. I studied Journalism there and was staying, nay enjoying my time, with my pals until I went to Mumbai for work. When I left for Mumbai, I kept most of my stuff at my friend's place and carried only a few pair of clothes, my guitar and my little cassette player. My Mom wanted me to get back home. And it was my duty, too, because she was not keeping well those days. I had to quit my job in Mumbai and get back home after just six months of work. I had decided to settle down in my hometown.

Till this time, I had no clue about the fact that, for my profession, there is no career opportunity in Guwahati. My Dad wanted me to study medicine because my big bro is an Engineer. That's the common career perception among most parents here. I totally respect it because these are the best career opportunities here. But to be stereotyped into a doctor was something that I completely despised!! I quit the science stream after high school and joined arts. So, no chance for medicine. I was spoilt and pampered. "I shall do what I want to do. I won't let my parents' wishes kill the real person in me." That's how I perceived things those days. My dad was hurt, but he never forced me. He supports me every time if I'm morally and logically correct. Now that I was studying arts, dad had another plan for me. He wanted me to join the government, nay head the government. He wanted me to join the elite administrative services. That's the best government position one can have in India. It carries so much of respect from all quarters. Being a top bureaucrat himself, dad is right. He's seen it all. But again, bureaucracy was not too appealing for me. Neither was management, which my big bro' suggested at one point in time. But soon he realized that I'm the WAYWARD SON and stopped interfering in my issues. But he does support me, just as my dad does. They love me so much. And I love them too. That's why I decided to return home from Mumbai. At least, if I'm with them, they'll be happier. My mom was the happiest person around this time. We've been such good friends.

It was 8 am in the morning. The train started to roll down the tracks. She was traveling with her aunt, Nancy, and her friend...oh! I don't remember her name. Though we traveled in the same compartment, we didn't talk for hours. They were busy in their own gossip, and I was lost in Thomas Hardy's Under the Greenwood Tree. Perhaps Nancy wanted to break the ice. She started, " You must be a voracious reader". I replied, surprised by that unexpected question " Not too much of a reader. But yes, I love reading the classics, though I don't get much time." This is how it began. We discussed a lot of things. We had the same major, English Literature. Mahruaai was not a part of this conversation but she kept looking at me. It was around afternoon when she finally came to me with a packet of potato wafers. "Would you like to have some?" She said, pointing towards the packet. I smiled and nodded and took out a few wafers, and said, "Thank you". So, it finally started between us. The 36 hour long journey seemed too short this time. We had plenty of fun. I liked her attitude. I wished the journey to last a little longer. I wanted the train to break down. I wanted it to slow down and delay. But it was not meant to be. Next evening, we arrived at New Delhi right on time, 20:30 sharp. Before we got down, I noted down her email id in a scratch of paper. I tore the lower half of the paper, jotted down my id, and phone number and gave it to her. I helped them with their luggage at the when we disembarked. Finally, it was time to say goodbye. But I knew that we're not ready for it. I saw something special in her innocent eyes. But we had to go separate ways.
The next morning I checked my email and was stunned!! There was a mail from Mahruaii...
"Hi...this is the girl you met on train, if you remember. Just wanted to say hi"
I checked the time. She sent that mail at 1 am in the night JUST to say hi!!! But I had known it before that she was not ready to leave me at the station. I hit back with..."I'm so glad to hear from you, Mahruaii. How could you think that I'll forget you in just one night? I remember everything about you. Take care and be in touch."

The next day she mailed me her phone number. I called her up that night. We talked for some 5 minutes. Nothing special. Just a formal conversation about how we enjoyed the journey and what we've been doing since we bid farewell at the station. We didn't talk or exchange any mails for the next one-week. I reached home with all my stuff. It was the evening of 18th June. On reaching home, I switched-on my phone and there was a text message. I was thrilled when I saw the name Mahruaii!! She surprised me again!!! This time she wished me a safe journey back home. That night we left bare all our emotions. She said that she couldn't live without me and I reassured her of my love for her. I loved her with all my heart. What a love drive!!

The next few days were quite exciting, the usual in the first few days in love. We were staying miles apart and the only means to of expressing our emotions was the telephone and the Internet. But alas! Good times are never meant to last long. Her mother fell seriously ill and was hospitalized. Mahruaai was worried because, for some strange reason, her ESP continued to tell her that these are the last days for her mom. I kept calling her up every afternoon and every night, trying to give her hope. Early morning 25 June: the text message form Mahruaii left me with tears..."This morning she passed away at 5 am. I'm totally broken, my love. I'm not ready to live without her." I jumped off my bed and reached for my phone. I was taken aback. I was not ready to believe this. We talked just a few hours back and Mahruaii said that her mom is recovering and getting better. Then what is this text all about? I dialed her number. Her phone rang a few times. Finally, she picked up. She broke down. She cried. I wish I were there to support her in this greatest moment of crisis. I tried to console her, but I knew that the telephone is not enough in such a situation. She said that now she'd no one except me. I knew that she lived with her stepfather. Her mother married a second time after her father left them. No one can love a child like a mother. It's true. She lost this love forever. Her mom took the best care of her, and sent her money for her education. She said that she might return back to Aizawl. She has to take care of her two-months old brother; the child by her mother and stepfather. In the days that followed, our love grew stronger.

Street of Dreams:

But things were not the same. My career was taking a downslide. Being a freelance writer, I didn't have a steady income. Projects became scarcer. My best friend and I, we organized rock concerts, we managed all small gigs and performances in the city. But still we're left with a petty amount. I was slowly getting frustrated. I talked to my parents. Explained them about my situation. Finally the words came from my dad, "Go back son. I want you to shine. I'll support you with all my might". I was thrilled!!! I decided to go back to New Delhi, more because of its proximity to Chandigarh, the place where Mahruaii lived. I'll be closer to her. I thought we could meet on weekends. Good times are about roll again. I saw an ad by New York-based an online budget travel company. They were looking for a Content Writer. I applied and waited for their reply. I didn't have to wait for too long. The next morning I checked my mailbox. There was very warm mail from Ashley. She said that my writing samples are Terrific!!! I never thought I'd be appreciated so much, for no one ever did that before. I was quite excited about this opportunity now. I replied her back. I thanked her and said that I'm eager to work with them. But I was required to go through a telephonic round and she asked me the time when I'd be free for that. I informed her that I'm available "anytime". I had so much of confidence in me. I believed that I was already through.

Two nights later, I was dead asleep after a hectic day. I woke up to the land phone. I grasped for switchboard and turned on the light. I looked at the clock. It was 1 am sharp. I asked myself, "Who's calling at this unearthly hour?" I picked up the receiver and the "hello" came out from my throat. I was sleepy, but I tried to avoid that tone. An unknown voice came from the other side, "Hi Joey ! This is Sanjeev from Roadrunner. Roadrunner!!!That name left me excited. It was the company that I had applied a few days back. But why are they calling me up for an interview at such a wicked hour!!! I was not pissed at all though. I'm very flexible and tend to take everything in my stride. Angst is the last word in my dictionary of emotions and expressions. "Joey, Ashley would like to speak to you", said Sanjeev again. Ashley!! That name made me feel really good. She's the same lady who sent me that warm mail about my sample write-ups, the one with whom I've been communicating till now. Her voice exuded the same warmth and even more. I really felt it. She asked me a few questions. I still don't remember how I answered her questions or what answers I gave. I was too tired and too sleepy!!! But after a few days Sanjeev called up again and informed that I'm through. Time to celebrate. Yipeee!!! I had already made up my mind to get on with work seriously. When I do things seriously, I dedicate my mind, my body and my soul to it. My dad always taught me to be an honest person and I learned it really well.

I called up Mahruaii and gave her the news. She was jubilant! It's the first thing that made her happy after her mom passed away. Time to pack the backpacks again. The destination is New Delhi again. I planned to meet Mahruaii in Chandigarh, before I join my workplace. So, I started from home a few days in advance. I bid goodbye to my parents and the best of friends. I felt sad. Times are really happy at home, with family and friends. But when career is under threat, we rarely surrender. On reaching New Delhi, I went straight to one of my friend's place and unpacked at his place. I couldn't wait any longer to call up Mahruaii and say, "honey, we're meeting tomorrow. I'm starting from New Delhi early morning tomorrow and reach you by afternoon." I know we're just a night away from being the happiest couple on earth. She gave me instructions about how to reach Chandigarh from New Delhi. I slept early that night because I couldn't wait for the morning to come. I woke up early in the morning, dressed up, packed my rucksack, lighted a Navy Cut and headed straight to ISBT New Delhi. The place was crowded and it was noisy. There were all kinds of buses displaying plaques with their destination named inscribed. In that commotion I heard a voice shouting, "Chandigarh, Chandigarh, Cahndigarh...". I looked around and saw that local bus to Chandigarh. I jumped into it and took a window seat, hoping to enjoy the roadside views. I have a fascination for these views.

Together Again: The Second Time we Met, Part II

I took her in my arms and kissed her on her forehead. In India, people do not encourage public display of affection. For the first few minutes we kept smiling at each other. We were lost for words. We're meeting each other for the first time after we fell in love. Finally, we had to start with the most formal question, "How are you doing today?" Sounds lame, but we couldn't help it! Both of us were hungry. She hired a three-wheeled cycle- rickshaw and instructed the driver to take us to the central shopping mall. Unlike New Delhi, Chandigarh is quite clean and green. "Ah! Finally we're together again!", said Mahruaii as she took a deep breath. Both of us are so relaxed after all those restless days. " Yes dear, our love has found way". I smiled and replied. Everyday I kept saying that love would find a way, and this time it really did.
She took me to her favorite restaurant and we took the middle seat. We're looking for the corner one, but it was already occupied. The waiter came with a long list of item son the menu. We just ordered two Foster's beer and butter naan with curry. When it was over, we were full. "What to do now? Let's go to Shimla." I suggested a plan as she's leaving the city to stay with me for two days. But she wanted to visit New Delhi. Her aunt stays in the same city, but she didn't inform her about that. She was very strict, and won't let her leave the city. So, Mahruaii had to lie to her. She said, "Shimla is too close by. Let's take a long night bus ride. It'd be great". I thought for a while and nodded, "Great idea. Let's get back to New Delhi. A night ride would be perfect." She exclaimed, "yay!" We paid the bills and left the restaurant.

It was still afternoon and we had plenty of time left to spend in Chandigarh before we start for New Delhi. I was new to the place, but she knew it well. She asked me if I'd like to take a boat cruise in the lake. I was thrilled. I love boat cruises, though I don't know how to swim. I said, "let's do it". Cycle rickshaw again! This is perhaps the best way to travel short distances within the city. We reached the lake after a 15-minute ride. At the lake, there were boats of every shape and every design: fish, swan, canoe, kayak and lots more. I was too excited for the ride. She said, "let's ride that pink swan". I knew pink is her favorite color. So, I said, "go for it". We booked that paddleboat for a one-hour. It was quite cheap. We paid only 60 INR. We kept floating on the lake exploring every corner of it. It was quite large for a man-made lake. When we came ashore we had to pay some extra because we crossed our time limit. But that was worth the ride. It was almost 5 o'clock and we came back to the ISBT to get the bus to New Delhi. This time I didn't want to take a local bus again. Since it's going to be night, it'd be unsafe for her. We booked two Volvo tickets and waited for the bus.

When the bus started it was 7 o'clock in the evening when the bus started. We sunk into the comfy seats. The legroom was three times the local bus. Slowly it became dark. I was tired, and I'd have slept off had it been an ordinary day. But tonight, I'm with Mahruaii and I didn't want to miss a moment of this togetherness. After two days, we have to get back to our own worlds: my new workplace and her college. There was complete silence inside the bus. Perhaps everyone wanted to treat us with a happy ride. I reached out for her hands. They were so soft and warm. She never knew any sorrow until her mom passed way. And now her world is so different. Life is going to be hard. I wanted to make evrything alright for her with all of my love.........to be continued