I'm back after my week-long holiday. Hyderabad - Pune -Panchgani -Mumbai - Pune - Hyderabad. So much has happened in the past 10 days:
I lost my camera. It really is gone, and I still can't believe it.
Mel got married. It was the most amazing wedding I've attended.
I learned various lessons, etc.
Well, to spill everything out, I lost my camera after Mel's wedding. It was a fantastic wedding, first a gurudwara wedding, a Roce ceremony, a church wedding, and a very nice reception at the Juhu Hotel (Razz Rhino, where we've had loads of gigs - it is quite a special venue, and quite symbolic, and the sea was glorious.)
Anyway, so after the reception, we were all to go to the room the newly-weds had reserved for them at the Taj Land's End. I decided I wanted to go with Gary on the bike, and handed my bag, stuffed with everything - camera, phone, clothes, accessories, etc. to a friend who was coming to Taj by ric. I told him my camera was there and that he should not forget it.
Well, he did. Put it in the back of the ric and forgot to take it out. I was so shattered when I got there and asked for my bag and saw the shock on his expression. We did everything we could think of. Went looking for the rickshaw guy, went to the police, tried calling my phone. Most likely, the chap didn't know that the bag was there at the back of his rickshaw.
It was very difficult. It really killed me. I've been a lucky girl so far, and have had no tragic losses in my life. And this camera was my first most precious possession. So new... I can still feel it in my hands and hear the perfect mechanism click.
After it had sunk it, and I was crying slowly, all I could think of was, I'll get it back if the guy who finds it is nice. It all depends on him. He had my phone, and Mel's wallet, with his visiting card. He could get in touch with us if he wanted. He still can...
I felt as if I'd lost a person.. a best friend. Everyone assured me it was OK.. after all, no one was hurt, and it was only a material thing. I'd also lost my house keys, and oh God, lots of small but important things. I had to break into my house the next day. I really felt alone, rotten, horrid.
But then I had my friends comfort me. They all felt my pain, and I could see that they were hurting for me, and that was a priceless feeling... I felt comforted just to see their pain for me. And Mel had just gotten married, it was the happiest time of his life, and I wanted to share that.
The next morning was the worst ever. I had to call and inform people, and really hope that our search would prove fruitful. A friend did a sweep on radio. Nigel tried getting the Hutch people to trace the location of my phone. But they don't have technology to support it.. or maybe they wouldn't be bothered doing it for every misplaced phone.
My parents called me to Pune on the last day of my holiday. It was comforting just to see the whole family and their compassion. Everyone says I should get another one.
Of course I will. I have to start all over again, and the most painful part is the wait. I was so used to my baby. And the other annoying part is going to be the complexity of making the purchase. I have to find someone coming down from the USA who can buy it and bring it down for me. Quite a shame.
I've learnt a few lessons.
The value of people.
The value of money.
The need to look after your things. Very carefully.
The most amazing thing that came out of this was that, for the first time I saw that when my pain and sorrow was shared among my friends and family, how quickly it vanished. I feel as if the weight that I had for the past three days is now gone. And its only because of the people in my life.
Everyone says that everything happens for the best, and for a reason. It's hard to believe in many cases. But I hope there's some truth to it. I'm lucky, it could have been much worse.. and I'll get a new camera soon. A better version. (The dollar price is dropping.)
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Google Maps and Vacations
I work for Google. I was hired to work for AdWords, but recently, I got the chance to jump into a small group that's working on a Google Maps project. Some engineers in Bangalore set up a tool that makes drawing maps (digitizing) very simple.
So, a small group (3 actually) started, a few months ago, a project to draw maps for India. At that time, there were NO maps for India, available. Well, there are maps, but you have to pay for them, and of course there is Wikimapia.com, which is great, but not 'reliable maps,' more like Google Earth, and mapmyindia.com, but still not very good. Not good enough for what we want to do anyway.
Now Google is brilliant (it is a living thing) and we like to make money, and make our users happy. Making maps available online, and on your mobile phone is a nice thing. We would be able to give you detailed directions (which roads to take, which roads are one-ways and which roads go where, and so on) to you while you are in your car, driving to anywhere.
So that's how this team got started. Its very exciting. A few of us were invited to help draw cities we came from. I drew Bombay. It was awesome. We used the same satellite imagery that you see in Google Earth, and marked locations. It was like going home.
We've finished drawing all the big cities. I'm now drawing Jaisalmer, all alone. Good fun. Have never been there, but I know the names of the streets now...
Well, so this project is growing, and last week, I joined the team full time. I'm helping running the show... and its gorgeous fun. Look up your city.
There's lots more actually. A couple of months ago, after we launched Maps India, we had a nasty shock. Yahoo! without any warning, launched www.maps.yahoo.co.in. And with lots more maps than we had been able to draw. Though, of course, those maps had just been bought from other sources. They hadn't drawn it themselves, like we are. Our content is dead authentic, and in great detail.
So we're on a hectic but good journey of drawing everything.... small towns, tiny roads, everything. Everywhere. I think our maps in many cities are much better than Yahoo!'s. Though, ours have many errors too. If you find any, I'd be glad to have them corrected.
We have a long way to go. And many places to go to.
Check out Bombay. The 'Hybrid' view, will show you the map atop the Satellite Images.
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=mumbai&ie=UTF8&ll=19.056439,72.849312&spn=0.086968,0.138702&z=13&iwloc=addr&om=1
PS: Also check out Gooogle Earth's latest version. You can upload pictures of places. It's stunning.
So, coming back to where I was, I was saying that there are many places we are going to get to. But, in the meantime, I'm going on a week long holiday. First, to Panchgani for the weekend, and then to Bombay for Melly's shaadi. Woooooohooooooooooo.
So, a small group (3 actually) started, a few months ago, a project to draw maps for India. At that time, there were NO maps for India, available. Well, there are maps, but you have to pay for them, and of course there is Wikimapia.com, which is great, but not 'reliable maps,' more like Google Earth, and mapmyindia.com, but still not very good. Not good enough for what we want to do anyway.
Now Google is brilliant (it is a living thing) and we like to make money, and make our users happy. Making maps available online, and on your mobile phone is a nice thing. We would be able to give you detailed directions (which roads to take, which roads are one-ways and which roads go where, and so on) to you while you are in your car, driving to anywhere.
So that's how this team got started. Its very exciting. A few of us were invited to help draw cities we came from. I drew Bombay. It was awesome. We used the same satellite imagery that you see in Google Earth, and marked locations. It was like going home.
We've finished drawing all the big cities. I'm now drawing Jaisalmer, all alone. Good fun. Have never been there, but I know the names of the streets now...
Well, so this project is growing, and last week, I joined the team full time. I'm helping running the show... and its gorgeous fun. Look up your city.
There's lots more actually. A couple of months ago, after we launched Maps India, we had a nasty shock. Yahoo! without any warning, launched www.maps.yahoo.co.in. And with lots more maps than we had been able to draw. Though, of course, those maps had just been bought from other sources. They hadn't drawn it themselves, like we are. Our content is dead authentic, and in great detail.
So we're on a hectic but good journey of drawing everything.... small towns, tiny roads, everything. Everywhere. I think our maps in many cities are much better than Yahoo!'s. Though, ours have many errors too. If you find any, I'd be glad to have them corrected.
We have a long way to go. And many places to go to.
Check out Bombay. The 'Hybrid' view, will show you the map atop the Satellite Images.
http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=mumbai&ie=UTF8&ll=19.056439,72.849312&spn=0.086968,0.138702&z=13&iwloc=addr&om=1
PS: Also check out Gooogle Earth's latest version. You can upload pictures of places. It's stunning.
So, coming back to where I was, I was saying that there are many places we are going to get to. But, in the meantime, I'm going on a week long holiday. First, to Panchgani for the weekend, and then to Bombay for Melly's shaadi. Woooooohooooooooooo.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Mel is getting married
Met him little more than a year ago. Had heard much about him. Was eager to see him. We hit it off the first time we met. Melroy D'Mello. Mellund, as he's sometimes called, amongst other names.
Little background - ex-Xavierite. Didn't finish college. Worked at Channel [V]. Was guitarist for Split, in the old days. Then, one day, Mel got a job in Bangalore.
Worked in Bangalore for 2 years. Got smashed every single night. Played for a (very) nice band there, called Old Jungle Saying. Had a blast. Then decided he needed to come back to Bombay.
2 years after he left, Melroy was back.
I met him at the hospital. Nigel, the drummer had met with a very severe accident, broken arm and ruptured spleen, and we were all at the hospital. I was very upset. That was the first time I saw Mel.
He is very tall. Gangling. Has a purposeful stride. Confused look. Very smooth talking. Incredibly, spontaneously funny.
We soon left the hospital. And went for a drink. Toasted to Nigel.
And then nearly every evening, we'd meet at the hospital, and go for drinks. Shady bars, boy talk, Split talk. Garreth, Mel, Vishy (sometimes) and me.
Mel had ridden down to Bombay from Bangalore on his Thunderbird. Via Goa. And on his way from Goa to Bombay, he met a little abandoned puppy. Mel stuffed the little puppy, carefully, mind you, into his helmet and brought him home. He didn't think his mum would be too pleased to see the little abandoned puppy. And in a tactic of great foresight, he took the puppy home and asked mom to name him. She was distracted enough, long enough for the puppy to become a part of the household. Yea, she was the one who looked at him long and hard and said, "We will call him Brownie." Sigh.
And so, we'd go for drinks, bike rides, and then go home to get eaten up by Brownie. I've met many puppies in my long career as a vagabond. But, none have bitten me with as much vigor and persistence as young Brownie.
The first time I met Mel's parents, was at 6 in the morning. When Uncle woke up and came into the living room. Where I was asleep on the sofa. I woke up soon after and smiled politely, hoping Mel would wake up soon. He got up at noon. I'd left by then.
Mel didn't have a job for few months after he got back. I had just finished college and had a long holiday. Gary had taken 2 months off. We'd meet often, go drinking, attend gigs, and have band practice. I was declared band manager and I supervised all practices. I was the most devoted fan.
Gigs started coming. Big gigs. Big stages. New songs. Everything was awesome and so much fun.
Gary and Mel introduced me to punk. And then started a punk band, Forcefield. They're fab. We'd have superb discussions over beer and rum, about cops, rebellion, politics, music, drugs, Goa and our plans to save the world. Was nice.
But then, I had to leave Bombay and come to Hyderabad. For my first ever job at Google. I hated to go, and Mel said I sucked. He said I would be sucked into the corporate world, and become a corporate slave. I promised I only wanted to work for a year and I'd be back. I'm going back soon.
Well, anyway, I tried my hardest to go back to Bombay for every Split gig. But then, the gigs became so frequent, that I had to miss many. But I'd still go every month, and there'd always be a gig for me to catch.
Mel got me to ride a rickshaw once. When I was very drunk, and it was way, way past midnight. Mel, also, lost his brand new guitar once. When we were all very drunk. We found it the next day. We'd left it outside a bar, on the pavement.
Mel spent one night in a local police station. I don't remember what for, but it was a funny story. A few days later, he was stopped again by cops for being out late.
Cops: Where are you going?
Mel: I dunno.
Cops not pleased; Cops: Are you drunk?
Mel: Yes, and I'm also high on marijuana.
Cops little alarmed; Cops: Do you have a job?
Mel: No.
Cops: What do you do?
Mel: Nothing. (Stares rudely)
Cops: We could take you to the police station.
Mel: Ah, its OK, I was there a few days ago. Is there anything you want, or can I go home?
Mel goes home.
Split's now a big band. They've recently been selected for Channel [V] Launchpad with 15 other bands. Best band goes to Hard Rock Cafe, New York. There's so much more to say about Mel.
Especially recently, I've noticed that he is something of a legend in our small Bombay rock scene (spreading upto Delhi and down to Bangalore). When he's on stage, every one's looking to see what he's doing next. And what he's saying. It's weird, and very powerful. And its only building up.
Somewhere along the way, Mel met Simrat. Petite, very pretty Punjabi girl. Fashion designer. Mostly silent, peaceful. But also, strong enough to handle Mel.
They're getting married next week. I can hardly believe its happening so soon, but am very happy and excited. It was the sweetest wedding invite I've ever got. Via email. In a few 'Melly' words. Now, I've got to go. Still can't figure a wedding present.
Little background - ex-Xavierite. Didn't finish college. Worked at Channel [V]. Was guitarist for Split, in the old days. Then, one day, Mel got a job in Bangalore.
Worked in Bangalore for 2 years. Got smashed every single night. Played for a (very) nice band there, called Old Jungle Saying. Had a blast. Then decided he needed to come back to Bombay.
2 years after he left, Melroy was back.
I met him at the hospital. Nigel, the drummer had met with a very severe accident, broken arm and ruptured spleen, and we were all at the hospital. I was very upset. That was the first time I saw Mel.
He is very tall. Gangling. Has a purposeful stride. Confused look. Very smooth talking. Incredibly, spontaneously funny.
We soon left the hospital. And went for a drink. Toasted to Nigel.
And then nearly every evening, we'd meet at the hospital, and go for drinks. Shady bars, boy talk, Split talk. Garreth, Mel, Vishy (sometimes) and me.
Mel had ridden down to Bombay from Bangalore on his Thunderbird. Via Goa. And on his way from Goa to Bombay, he met a little abandoned puppy. Mel stuffed the little puppy, carefully, mind you, into his helmet and brought him home. He didn't think his mum would be too pleased to see the little abandoned puppy. And in a tactic of great foresight, he took the puppy home and asked mom to name him. She was distracted enough, long enough for the puppy to become a part of the household. Yea, she was the one who looked at him long and hard and said, "We will call him Brownie." Sigh.
And so, we'd go for drinks, bike rides, and then go home to get eaten up by Brownie. I've met many puppies in my long career as a vagabond. But, none have bitten me with as much vigor and persistence as young Brownie.
The first time I met Mel's parents, was at 6 in the morning. When Uncle woke up and came into the living room. Where I was asleep on the sofa. I woke up soon after and smiled politely, hoping Mel would wake up soon. He got up at noon. I'd left by then.
Mel didn't have a job for few months after he got back. I had just finished college and had a long holiday. Gary had taken 2 months off. We'd meet often, go drinking, attend gigs, and have band practice. I was declared band manager and I supervised all practices. I was the most devoted fan.
Gigs started coming. Big gigs. Big stages. New songs. Everything was awesome and so much fun.
Gary and Mel introduced me to punk. And then started a punk band, Forcefield. They're fab. We'd have superb discussions over beer and rum, about cops, rebellion, politics, music, drugs, Goa and our plans to save the world. Was nice.
But then, I had to leave Bombay and come to Hyderabad. For my first ever job at Google. I hated to go, and Mel said I sucked. He said I would be sucked into the corporate world, and become a corporate slave. I promised I only wanted to work for a year and I'd be back. I'm going back soon.
Well, anyway, I tried my hardest to go back to Bombay for every Split gig. But then, the gigs became so frequent, that I had to miss many. But I'd still go every month, and there'd always be a gig for me to catch.
Mel got me to ride a rickshaw once. When I was very drunk, and it was way, way past midnight. Mel, also, lost his brand new guitar once. When we were all very drunk. We found it the next day. We'd left it outside a bar, on the pavement.
Mel spent one night in a local police station. I don't remember what for, but it was a funny story. A few days later, he was stopped again by cops for being out late.
Cops: Where are you going?
Mel: I dunno.
Cops not pleased; Cops: Are you drunk?
Mel: Yes, and I'm also high on marijuana.
Cops little alarmed; Cops: Do you have a job?
Mel: No.
Cops: What do you do?
Mel: Nothing. (Stares rudely)
Cops: We could take you to the police station.
Mel: Ah, its OK, I was there a few days ago. Is there anything you want, or can I go home?
Mel goes home.
Split's now a big band. They've recently been selected for Channel [V] Launchpad with 15 other bands. Best band goes to Hard Rock Cafe, New York. There's so much more to say about Mel.
Especially recently, I've noticed that he is something of a legend in our small Bombay rock scene (spreading upto Delhi and down to Bangalore). When he's on stage, every one's looking to see what he's doing next. And what he's saying. It's weird, and very powerful. And its only building up.
Somewhere along the way, Mel met Simrat. Petite, very pretty Punjabi girl. Fashion designer. Mostly silent, peaceful. But also, strong enough to handle Mel.
They're getting married next week. I can hardly believe its happening so soon, but am very happy and excited. It was the sweetest wedding invite I've ever got. Via email. In a few 'Melly' words. Now, I've got to go. Still can't figure a wedding present.
Friday, May 04, 2007
Potter
I told you, Potter fever's coming up.
Yesterday, I received an email, with an e-book. The 7th Harry Potter Book. I have no idea how this person got their hands on the e-book of the book that isn't released yet, and everyone is waiting for.
I'm not sure I quite believe it is the thing. So, a bit wary, I opened it and read it suspiciously. The writing seemed accurately her style. J. K. Rowling I mean. But then I was reluctant to read more, for one, I've lost touch and wanted to read book 5 and 6 again. And then again, when I read Dumbledore's name, I felt an immense pang.
Also I wonder if someone has actually been crazy enough to write their own version of Harry Potter and the Deathly Harrows. I can't wait to find out.
I'm reading book 6 now. E-book, though. I mostly hate reading books online, in fact I never have. But this time, I dont have a choice, coz I'm reading it during work hours and I'm hooked. I could never ever get hooked to an e-book. Its just difficult to read too much text online for long. But, Harry Potter makes it otherwise.
Anyway, gotta get back to the book. I just wrote this because:
1. I haven't blogged for a while and have missed it.
2. I was impressed or intrigued, rather, by how many times I've been in near tears while reading Potter. Quite affects me.
Later, then.
PS: Been also tripping on Depeche Mode the past week or two. Brilliant stuff - Playing the Angel (the album). Check out.
Yesterday, I received an email, with an e-book. The 7th Harry Potter Book. I have no idea how this person got their hands on the e-book of the book that isn't released yet, and everyone is waiting for.
I'm not sure I quite believe it is the thing. So, a bit wary, I opened it and read it suspiciously. The writing seemed accurately her style. J. K. Rowling I mean. But then I was reluctant to read more, for one, I've lost touch and wanted to read book 5 and 6 again. And then again, when I read Dumbledore's name, I felt an immense pang.
Also I wonder if someone has actually been crazy enough to write their own version of Harry Potter and the Deathly Harrows. I can't wait to find out.
I'm reading book 6 now. E-book, though. I mostly hate reading books online, in fact I never have. But this time, I dont have a choice, coz I'm reading it during work hours and I'm hooked. I could never ever get hooked to an e-book. Its just difficult to read too much text online for long. But, Harry Potter makes it otherwise.
Anyway, gotta get back to the book. I just wrote this because:
1. I haven't blogged for a while and have missed it.
2. I was impressed or intrigued, rather, by how many times I've been in near tears while reading Potter. Quite affects me.
Later, then.
PS: Been also tripping on Depeche Mode the past week or two. Brilliant stuff - Playing the Angel (the album). Check out.
Friday, April 20, 2007
Friday.
It is a beautiful day
And I'm going to Bombay.
PS: I didn't mean it to rhyme. I really am going to Bombay. And it really is a lovely day.
It was stormy yesterday, it rained a lot. Today is a fantastic blue sky, with a new fresh smell in the air. And I'm ready to go...
PPS: Split is performing in Bombay this weekend. 2 gigs.
One for Channel [V] Launchpad at Hard Rock Cafe on Saturday.
And the other at Razz Rhino, with 7 other bands. Good stuff.
PPPS: Mel wants me to do a photoshoot for him. He will then proceed to send these photos to his girlfriend's mum. He has threatened me. His future happiness lies in my hands.
PPPPS: This will also the be the first time I'm attending a Split gig with the new camera. All these months before, I've been the official photographer at all gigs, but with a tiny, small, unimpressive camera. This time, it will be different!
Photos soooon. Bye.
And I'm going to Bombay.
PS: I didn't mean it to rhyme. I really am going to Bombay. And it really is a lovely day.
It was stormy yesterday, it rained a lot. Today is a fantastic blue sky, with a new fresh smell in the air. And I'm ready to go...
PPS: Split is performing in Bombay this weekend. 2 gigs.
One for Channel [V] Launchpad at Hard Rock Cafe on Saturday.
And the other at Razz Rhino, with 7 other bands. Good stuff.
PPPS: Mel wants me to do a photoshoot for him. He will then proceed to send these photos to his girlfriend's mum. He has threatened me. His future happiness lies in my hands.
PPPPS: This will also the be the first time I'm attending a Split gig with the new camera. All these months before, I've been the official photographer at all gigs, but with a tiny, small, unimpressive camera. This time, it will be different!
Photos soooon. Bye.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Monday, April 16, 2007
Quote of the Day and Song for the day
People will believe anything if you whisper it.
- The Whispered Rule
Song for the day:
Know your rights - The Clash
- The Whispered Rule
Song for the day:
Know your rights - The Clash
Friday, April 13, 2007
I had a dream
A most horrifying one. Mostly, I can't remember my dreams. Not the nice ones, nor the bad ones.
But this one, I think is one I've seen before. That's why its weird. And I have no idea what it means.
I dreamed about 2 snakes and a pig. It's a vague and abstract memory of a strange dream, so be warned, its likely to be a confusing narrative.
So, basically, in this dream, I am living with a couple of friends, and one day I find a big, fat, colourful snake coiled up in my bedroom. The thought itself is horrifying, that there's a snake, in my room, in the middle of a city. In the dream, I then obviously wanted to get rid of it while it was sleeping.
I'm not quite sure what happens next, maybe some screaming and fear, but what I remember next is that I run out of the room, lock it and decide to get someone to help. This someone turns out to be a friend. When we open the door, I find that there is no snake, but a pig in my room.
We're all amazed and dumbfounded by what was happening. Where is the snake? I'm still scared out of my wits.
Eventually, it goes on in this crazy fashion, to a point where we figure out that the snake transforms into a pig. And the last thing I remember of this ridiculous dream, is that we threw the snake out at some point. (It would keep reappearing everyday) and then in the end, the PIG wriggled back into my room from under the door. I still can't believe it.
It doesn't seem half as horrible now that its post lunch time, but, I don't wanna see that dream again.
But this one, I think is one I've seen before. That's why its weird. And I have no idea what it means.
I dreamed about 2 snakes and a pig. It's a vague and abstract memory of a strange dream, so be warned, its likely to be a confusing narrative.
So, basically, in this dream, I am living with a couple of friends, and one day I find a big, fat, colourful snake coiled up in my bedroom. The thought itself is horrifying, that there's a snake, in my room, in the middle of a city. In the dream, I then obviously wanted to get rid of it while it was sleeping.
I'm not quite sure what happens next, maybe some screaming and fear, but what I remember next is that I run out of the room, lock it and decide to get someone to help. This someone turns out to be a friend. When we open the door, I find that there is no snake, but a pig in my room.
We're all amazed and dumbfounded by what was happening. Where is the snake? I'm still scared out of my wits.
Eventually, it goes on in this crazy fashion, to a point where we figure out that the snake transforms into a pig. And the last thing I remember of this ridiculous dream, is that we threw the snake out at some point. (It would keep reappearing everyday) and then in the end, the PIG wriggled back into my room from under the door. I still can't believe it.
It doesn't seem half as horrible now that its post lunch time, but, I don't wanna see that dream again.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Textures and Visions
I love it when after seeing a movie, I wake up the next day, having dreamed about the film and can still see scenes and random moments from the film. That's the closest I can get to living on celluloid.
Right now, I can see scenes from a film I saw two days ago. Sur mes Levres. 'Read my lips.'
Great film.
Right now, I can see scenes from a film I saw two days ago. Sur mes Levres. 'Read my lips.'
Great film.
Namesake
Saw the movie finally last night. Decent stuff. I'd read the book ages ago, as soon as it had come out and I thought the book was ok too. Though, I'd forgotten the story, and it slowly dawned on me as the movie progressed.
Nice, delicately made film. Mostly good acting and fair justice to the book and the story. The narrative was smooth, easily flowing, and there were parts that were quite affecting and touching.
Of course, Mira Nair has still made a very conventionally styled film with Namesake. Doesn't seem like budget was a problem, but she's stuck to conventional cinema techniques. Which, I think, worked for the film. But well, nothing extraordinary.
PSt: That reminds me, there's a story behind how I got my name too. Well, I'm not sure I quite believe it, but Mom was pregnant, and she was in the fire temple praying, when she heard or imagined maybe, a voice tell her that, 'You will have a daughter, and she is Afrin.' Of course, there was no one around when she opened her eyes. (Mom's heard these voices again too, and one time right before I got admission into college and was really wondering which college I would end up at... and again at the fire temple, Mom saw a distinct vision of the holy cross, and she knew at once that I'd be going to St. Xavier's.) And so, I'm Afrin. Hello.
Nice, delicately made film. Mostly good acting and fair justice to the book and the story. The narrative was smooth, easily flowing, and there were parts that were quite affecting and touching.
Of course, Mira Nair has still made a very conventionally styled film with Namesake. Doesn't seem like budget was a problem, but she's stuck to conventional cinema techniques. Which, I think, worked for the film. But well, nothing extraordinary.
PSt: That reminds me, there's a story behind how I got my name too. Well, I'm not sure I quite believe it, but Mom was pregnant, and she was in the fire temple praying, when she heard or imagined maybe, a voice tell her that, 'You will have a daughter, and she is Afrin.' Of course, there was no one around when she opened her eyes. (Mom's heard these voices again too, and one time right before I got admission into college and was really wondering which college I would end up at... and again at the fire temple, Mom saw a distinct vision of the holy cross, and she knew at once that I'd be going to St. Xavier's.) And so, I'm Afrin. Hello.
Detachable Attachments
I guess this title doesn't make much sense. Can't all attachments be detached. Ok, maybe not always. They might be stitched, or stuck, or surgically attached. Nevermind all that, I want to talk about my camera.
The pretty Nikon D70s.
Lovely feel, sound, sight, posession. So this one is my new attachment. Goes everywhere I go. Around my neck, or in my bag. She gets a lot of attention too. A bit scary sometimes. We dont mean no harm.
So, last Thursday, a colleague lent me his Nikon 70 -300mm lens. I've been meaning to buy a good zoom lens, and this one seems perfect. Thursday, also, a bunch of us left for our long weekend to Madras. It was fun juggling with two lenses. I barely ever had time to compose, and make pictures slowly and calmly. And since I wasnt really prepared to have two lenses, my camera wouldn't fit into the case if I had attached the new lens on. So juggling was imperative. I got a good idea of what landscape would fit best with which lens. Still learning though.
Here are the pics of the Madras / Pondichery pics. Mostly Pondicheri, and buddies, who like to pose.
The pretty Nikon D70s.
Lovely feel, sound, sight, posession. So this one is my new attachment. Goes everywhere I go. Around my neck, or in my bag. She gets a lot of attention too. A bit scary sometimes. We dont mean no harm.
So, last Thursday, a colleague lent me his Nikon 70 -300mm lens. I've been meaning to buy a good zoom lens, and this one seems perfect. Thursday, also, a bunch of us left for our long weekend to Madras. It was fun juggling with two lenses. I barely ever had time to compose, and make pictures slowly and calmly. And since I wasnt really prepared to have two lenses, my camera wouldn't fit into the case if I had attached the new lens on. So juggling was imperative. I got a good idea of what landscape would fit best with which lens. Still learning though.
Here are the pics of the Madras / Pondichery pics. Mostly Pondicheri, and buddies, who like to pose.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Monsoon Madness
The title means much. First of all, it was the name of a party I remember organizing some 10 years ago, maybe. Where we got everyone to come up to the building terrace, and dance in the rain. I think it didn't rain that evening though. We had to use hose pipes.
Anyhow, moving along, it rained last evening. Yes, in April. After the scorching, unbearable heat, it was a fantastic relief. I didn't see it rain though. I was sitting on my ass in front of my computer, working. When I left office later, the smell of rain hit me so hard and the sweet texture of the air surprised me. I knew at once, even though it was dry by then. That it had rained.
So, I'm just writing this to express the sweet feeling I felt then. I've never thought about this before, but I love the rains very much. My birthday is during the monsoon. At least the Bombay monsoon. I particularly remember a Birthday when I came back from school early and danced, in our balcony while it poured outside. I almost remember what I was wearing too. Almost, alas.
Well, yesterday, it smelled so nice. I felt a crazy fever, or maybe madness, rising in my head. I needed to walk in the rain and smell the earth and the green. I needed to go away to a green hilltop and feel the rain. There would be a gentle river nearby and I would slip into it. I felt very restless.
But then, its not yet the monsoon.. Only a summer shower. I will go away somewhere when the monsoon comes. Until then, I'll be content to smile conspiringly to the smart cuckoo that hails the rains.
PS: Unfortunately, there are many times when I hate the rains. Especially in Bombay. But, then again, the rains will come and the rains will go.
Anyhow, moving along, it rained last evening. Yes, in April. After the scorching, unbearable heat, it was a fantastic relief. I didn't see it rain though. I was sitting on my ass in front of my computer, working. When I left office later, the smell of rain hit me so hard and the sweet texture of the air surprised me. I knew at once, even though it was dry by then. That it had rained.
So, I'm just writing this to express the sweet feeling I felt then. I've never thought about this before, but I love the rains very much. My birthday is during the monsoon. At least the Bombay monsoon. I particularly remember a Birthday when I came back from school early and danced, in our balcony while it poured outside. I almost remember what I was wearing too. Almost, alas.
Well, yesterday, it smelled so nice. I felt a crazy fever, or maybe madness, rising in my head. I needed to walk in the rain and smell the earth and the green. I needed to go away to a green hilltop and feel the rain. There would be a gentle river nearby and I would slip into it. I felt very restless.
But then, its not yet the monsoon.. Only a summer shower. I will go away somewhere when the monsoon comes. Until then, I'll be content to smile conspiringly to the smart cuckoo that hails the rains.
PS: Unfortunately, there are many times when I hate the rains. Especially in Bombay. But, then again, the rains will come and the rains will go.
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Of A Baby Sister
Hehehehe... every time I think of my younger sister, I feel happy and giggly. I'm generally rather well-behaved, at least out of home. But, with my baby pookie, ( all indistinguishable names henceforth in this post will refer to Azmin), I behave like a 3 year old. I just can't help it.
I was 3 when she was born. Mom says my eyes filled with incredible wonder when I saw her first and Mom was a bit anxious about how I would react to the 'new one'. I then looked at her toes and fingers, and said, 'But they are so small!' and after that, till date, I went on the be the best big sister in the world. (This claim maybe subject to severe opposition from the little pigeon-head herself).
But anyhow, our growing up together was full of delight. My favourite part is this phase I remember distinctly, when I got her to take an oath to obey every word I said. The little tub was devoted to me. She refused to listen to any one but me, and even Mom would have to pass on instructions through me. However, that glorious reign didn't last forever. Her bad luck, I insist, else she would have been a much more fun person today. The goose doesn't quite agree to that either.
Oh, but we had a lot of fun. I remember taking her piggy back, and being a camel, a snake, a roller coaster, etc. This game was called Fantasy Land. I would lie on the bed, and ask her in a mechanical tone, what ride she wanted. And the I would ask her to press my nose and request a ride. Hearing her giggle and squeal was my great joy, enough for me to subject my body to all kinds of weird behavior.
Of course we fought. I have loads of memories of her tantrums and my impatience. I also remember biting her a couple of times, and pulling hair, and all. I also remember bursting into tears once when my doodledee got spanked by Mom. I begged Mom not to hit her.
In school, I looked after her a bit, but she was doing well by herself. Back home, in the building, she was scared of the boys. And cycles. Hahah (btw, Azmin still can't ride a cycle). Anyhow, slowly, she grew up.
Well, the bottlefly soon began to dislike a lot of things about me. My slackness, laziness, and rebellious behaviour. She disliked it so much, that she tried very hard to be the exact opposite.
I wouldn't study for exams until the last minute. She would be Miss-Completed-Homework. I never ever did homework, what a horror it was.
She was very tidy and kept things in their place. I prefer the jumble-tumble.
She's always on time and always prepared for everything. (I think a pre-mature Grandma-hood also).
Oh, but I love her and I'm amused and proud of myself of driving her to such frustration that she got determined to be the exact opposite. She's a very focused girl.
I can't believe she's 18 now. And living by herself in Pune, doing a fantastic course I would die to do. And meeting some very interesting people. A couple of years ago, she disapproved of everything I did, though I wouldn't hide a thing from her, my rock-n-roll lifestyle didn't have her admiration. I used to call her my Granny then, coz she'd nag and tell me what to do and what not.
Now, the past few months, she's loosened up. She's living a cool life. Cooler than mine anyway. She's very talented, and I am glad about how she's learning things. I've tried so hard to get her to read, see, listen to, and do all kinds of interesting things! She'll now admit that my influence has been good. I hope. My little bumblebee is a darling love and I'm super glad to have her. I know one person I can giggle with always.
Going to the Movies
Someone suggested I watch a film everyday last week. So I took it on as a challenge (and an excuse) and went to the Movies everyday last week.
Monday - I saw 300 again. Glad I did. Enjoyed it.
Tuesday - Pursuit of Happyness. Very nice, I thought. Will Smith and son, brilliant acting.
Wednesday - The Holiday. I was wary that it would be a chick flick. Maybe it is, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Especially Kate Winslet, she was awesome. Jack Black sucked big time.
Thursday - Water. Very disappointed. Liza Ray and John Abraham made a mockery of the whole thing. Bad dialogue, worse delivery, and not sensitively made. The little girl and the older widow were good, the only saving grace.
Friday - The Marine.
Yes, Friday's movie deserves a special note. Note that from Monday through Thursday, we got great seats in the cinema. Second row from the back. And the cinema would be mostly empty. The Marine was packed. We sat second row from the front. The entire cinema was full. With mostly men. I mostly like action-thrillers. The Marine, however, was not a thriller. It was just noise and explosions. And its climax was twice as long and three times more pathetic than the average Hindi film climax. Very sad.
Ok. Saturday and Sunday we saw movies at home. Mostly because there were no other films I wanted to see in the cinemas. Except Namesake, but that one was all sold out.
So, Saturday, we went for a nice long walk in the K.B.R National Park and then for a beer. And a typical Andra dinner. Varun ate quail. When we got home, I pulled out a stack of new virgin DVDs and picked Godard. Une Femme Est Une Femme. A Woman Is A Woman. Great fun, and very nice.
Sunday, I woke up early and wanted to get through as many of the DVDs as I could. We first saw Godard's Le Weekend. Hmm, this one's a toughie. I liked it, it wasn't too easy. My friends couldn't really take it. I saw it again, at once, with commentary on. Am glad for these features that DVDs have, it certainly helped with that film!
Next we saw Ron Frike's Baraka. A visual documentary, with no narrative or dialogue. Very visual. Shot in 24 countries, it's a view of global rituals, urban and rural analogies, and a visual treat. Very nice. And I found a random parallel between Godard's Weekend and Baraka. It's difficult to explain, but I'll try. In another post.
After Baraka, we saw Truffaut's The Soft Skin. Basically, the story of a famous novelist and his affair with an air stewardess. Nice film, but not spectacular. But I do like Truffaut.
The week was great fun and there are always more films to see! Wohoooooo.
PS: I must mention, I love being in a cinema. And turning around to see the glorious beam of light as the film is projected. It's the prettiest thing in the world... one of.
Monday - I saw 300 again. Glad I did. Enjoyed it.
Tuesday - Pursuit of Happyness. Very nice, I thought. Will Smith and son, brilliant acting.
Wednesday - The Holiday. I was wary that it would be a chick flick. Maybe it is, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Especially Kate Winslet, she was awesome. Jack Black sucked big time.
Thursday - Water. Very disappointed. Liza Ray and John Abraham made a mockery of the whole thing. Bad dialogue, worse delivery, and not sensitively made. The little girl and the older widow were good, the only saving grace.
Friday - The Marine.
Yes, Friday's movie deserves a special note. Note that from Monday through Thursday, we got great seats in the cinema. Second row from the back. And the cinema would be mostly empty. The Marine was packed. We sat second row from the front. The entire cinema was full. With mostly men. I mostly like action-thrillers. The Marine, however, was not a thriller. It was just noise and explosions. And its climax was twice as long and three times more pathetic than the average Hindi film climax. Very sad.
Ok. Saturday and Sunday we saw movies at home. Mostly because there were no other films I wanted to see in the cinemas. Except Namesake, but that one was all sold out.
So, Saturday, we went for a nice long walk in the K.B.R National Park and then for a beer. And a typical Andra dinner. Varun ate quail. When we got home, I pulled out a stack of new virgin DVDs and picked Godard. Une Femme Est Une Femme. A Woman Is A Woman. Great fun, and very nice.
Sunday, I woke up early and wanted to get through as many of the DVDs as I could. We first saw Godard's Le Weekend. Hmm, this one's a toughie. I liked it, it wasn't too easy. My friends couldn't really take it. I saw it again, at once, with commentary on. Am glad for these features that DVDs have, it certainly helped with that film!
Next we saw Ron Frike's Baraka. A visual documentary, with no narrative or dialogue. Very visual. Shot in 24 countries, it's a view of global rituals, urban and rural analogies, and a visual treat. Very nice. And I found a random parallel between Godard's Weekend and Baraka. It's difficult to explain, but I'll try. In another post.
After Baraka, we saw Truffaut's The Soft Skin. Basically, the story of a famous novelist and his affair with an air stewardess. Nice film, but not spectacular. But I do like Truffaut.
The week was great fun and there are always more films to see! Wohoooooo.
PS: I must mention, I love being in a cinema. And turning around to see the glorious beam of light as the film is projected. It's the prettiest thing in the world... one of.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Global Warning
Everytime I fell ill - cold, cough, headache or anything - my dad would say, 'This is a warning from your body, don't abuse it and don't ignore it.' It might sound silly and of course, I'm also full of the arrogant ingredient that young people have - I don't care, but. But, I know that there's truth to it. There's always some truth to what daddys and mommys say, and some lesson to learn. So, heed my body's warning or not, there is another parallel I must draw.
The Global Warning.
Its getting hot. And not because of hip-hop culture. I'm writing this blog not out of scientific enlightenment. I'm writing it because I can't bear the heat. And I wonder, its only April. It's going to get much worse this summer. And what will it be like next year? And the year after? Will we be able to step out into the sunlight? Or will we be 'dangerously' prone to skin cancers and other horrors if we basked in the sun?
How soon before the water runs out? And how soon before the oceans rise? This issue is now bothering our political leaders, or well, at least visionaries. The Times of India thought enough to print a first page article about it. Al Gore made a film about and dramatically warned The White House. Apocalypse is coming.
What I'm scared about is, in whose hands lie the important decisions? Who can save us now? Can we all make a difference? Or is it really too late?
Jane Goodall visited Google Hyderabad a few months ago. Her talk was incredibly inspiring. She's living the life of those we read about. The One Man Army. Woman, I mean. She goes around the world, touching lives, writing books, making speeches. She inspires young people to start doing something. And kids from around the world have responded.
Jane Goodall told us about Roots and Shoots. Her little program that allows volunteers from anywhere in the world to start their own little Roots and Shoots in their city, town, school, home. Each Roots and Shoots group takes up 3 projects. Community level, environmental level, urban, rural or natural levels. Anything their want to make an effort towards, that becomes their project. And there's no compulsion. No monitoring. Just your own will to do something.
It's not too late. Jane Goodall came here a few months ago. I wanted to do something then. That little fire in my belly died out easily. But a little guilty spark remains. Tomorrow, Jeetu and I will start our little Root and Shoot.
More soon.
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