Lousy Critics: Please stand up

Austerity. Rahul Gandhi. Shatabdi Express. SM Krishna. Shashi Tharoor. Five-Star facilities closed. Pranab Mukherjee. Shashi Tharoor again. Twitter. Cattle class. Jayanthi Natarajan. Ashok Gehlok. Media. Blogs.

Most of us reading this piece would have gone through at least a few of the above mentioned in some way or the other, in the last couple of days. The austerity drive by the govt. that’s been labeled by the media, so-called intelligentsia, and the learned bloggers all around the country. Can’t blame them, it’s this country which has such a tarnished image about the politicians. Such has been a polit-bureau’s image that the common man does not want to distinguish between the age-old practices and good practices that are on the process.

As if Rahul Gandhi and his invisible army of advisers were not aware of the fact that he cannot board a Shatabdi Express every now and then; that this drive could only aggravate his image as a lausy example for the larger Indian crowd. But it was taken, more so for his colleagues. A drive was required. Within those days, an expense list amounting to a humongous Rs.183 Crores came out open. Given economic conditions, a tax payer’s money is to be dealt more appropriately. Besides, conditions aside, it is definitely a good practice to have a check on the expense and become leaner in the operations. The govt. is showing signs of managing rather than work. That’s the only new perspective that’s coming up in all the recent drives. The drive is not just about all MPs and VVIPs taking economy class air tickets and chair seats in trains but about all such practices that the so-called HOLY COWS could take that reduces cost and thus better utilization of funds. I seriously recommend management classes to all critics to have a different perspective. We do not recognize Indian Politics professionally for sure. But at least, we could start acknowledging the facts and the drives and changes that are happening across. My quest into the matter saw other comments in blogs like cutting down travel cost with audio and video conferencing. Good thought. Likewise, there could many others we can come out, but only when we sit on the table with the same mindset.

Who would have cared to take note of a Union Minister staying up in a Star Hotel? This is not the first time for sure. Unless our dear Pranab Babu would not have carried those instructions to vacate their suites. What he meant there was transparency, much like a Finance head reaching out to other departments, that it is actually sending wrong signals to the people at large. Putting it in a much better way just because the men in question, S.M. Krishna and Shashi Tharoor, conduct and display the highest level of integrity. They have a proven track record. Bangaloreans still remember the CM Krishna days, so does the Marathis, not every Maharastian would have loved to see a Kannadiga Governor given their territorial issues. Not to forget Tharoor’s race for UN General Secretary; he would not have been counted, had he not performed and delivered earlier on. I would go blindly, when they say the bills were being paid from their own pockets. This episode could have been easily dealt with, internally. What came out in the whole episode is a discipline, a transparent action, a drive that we can’t afford to do it anymore and misuse govt.funds. A sincere message. A common man needs to understand. Eyewash! It had been going on since ages. But these definitely look more productive in terms of actions. Do you observe some changes, do you? Understand that drives and initiatives are happening across the board in the political arena. Which is good, and we the common man, can only welcome those.

Home Ministry. PC brought in some reforms there. Timeliness in his office. The finger print log-in devices that are being installed in the Home Ministry and the responses of ‘finding-it-tough-to-deal-with’ employees are definitely good signs for us to see and acknowledge. Soon, other offices would follow. Babugiri in Sarkari offices has be abolished. I’d love to see the same drive happening on the District Commissioner’s offices in the country. Now don’t rush for the cost hurdles associated with finger print devices, there are hundred other ways to track employee discipline; IAS officers, you guys are the best, be a change and come out with some methods and implements. Imagine the productivity. Imagine a common man coming in, getting his work done in a 30 mins time. Against those- “Aajke Sir meeting ee, kaalke aayo” whereas the truth is he/she is not willing to do so on the given day. What PC drove is brilliant; and where else to started other than the Home Ministry itself?

This austere effect reached the ever-travelling Mr.tharoor. Professional Hazards. He twittered around as his practice. The smart man that he is, chose a smart line. For God’s sake, just because he’s representing the govt. does not mean he can’t speak or write on a lighter note. Tharoor is well-read, in fact would understand Indian sentiments better than many. And we feel should good to see such dynamic people chairing important govt. portfolios in the country. English is still a foreign language in India, we still think Indian. And it’s okay to not take note of anything or anyone who gives a normal weightage to words or phrases being used. Jayanthi Natarajan, another learned person, a woman face of the ruling party, being a spokesperson, had to come strongly keeping in mind the larger sentiments of the country. But I am sure, deep down, she too understands where it came from. Later, the PM went above all and accepted it was all in good humor, thank you Manmohanji. But yes, the political atmosphere has to take on these issues too, give due treatment (in this case, ignoring is the best treatment) if we are to believe that the system is coming of age. Concentrate on the larger issues and ignore the trivia.

But it’s not the political establishments alone. It’s the intelligentsia, the irresponsible bloggers, media working 24/7 for their TRPs, who are equally the villains. Why do we have to be unduly critical about things, more so, when they are driven for a positive change? Why do the intelligentsia, keeps challenging the people at power; when he himself never made his way up there, he can’t. Media houses found the formula; pick the dictionary up, get the most unpopular word and make it the most hunted in google. The blogger would test his articulation skills, get into a bashing mode. The crème de la crème of the society, working in the corporates, practices the best in operational excellence in their respective business models, but fail to recognize the same being displayed at a political level. The truth is, we have not recognized politics as a profession. A polician’s job is as skillful just like the bypass surgery you do, expert hands like the anti-hacking software you code or dedication in the way you exceed your client’s expectations. How many of you and I, the lousy critics would take up politics or for that matter, any of the Administrative services. We sweat out by the name of Civil Services exams, and here we are, ready to criticize on every other action. If I can’t be an agent of change, the least I could do, is acknowledge a change, educate others on on the change. But please, for god’s sake, be constructive rather than a destructive critic!

The SRK Episode!

Well…Well…Well. Yet another airport conduct incident. Mr. Shah Rukh Khan being detained in Newark, NJ (USA). The Indian in me got furious for a moment; after all SRK does hold a place in our hearts. And I don’t compare the Badshah with the Shehenshah, both have their own forte. Maybe, as a human, I may tend to do it down the line but surely when SRK turns 60. But that does not mean ‘am putting my CRAZYmeter down for him; for I’ve also grown up with all the Yash Raj banners he was part of, seen the craze in the female fans who came to hold my hands but only to watch SRK do what he does best- Stretch his hands open so wonderfully that almost half the world’s females would get into his already suffocating heart. Sir, you almost made me a pimp then! What more, I tried doing the same magic; and got responses like- Honey! I like the way you are! Liar she was, because I never saw the same craze for me! Nevertheless, on a serious note, over the years, I also developed a fan following with him, but more so with his off-screen persona. Very intelligent, spontaneous, and evergreen. And it was disappointing to see him getting detained in a foreign land, where he had run so much for those ‘mouth wide open’ scenes. And he was DETAINED, a step ahead of the frisking episodes in airport that we kept hearing in media off late, the last major being Dr.Kalam’s. Off course the issue was different then, for it was a definite code of conduct by an US airline major, and it did apologize later to the missile man. But yes, for SRK, my instant reaction was furious. But then, quickly there’s another opinion that suddenly ruled over the fan in me. That’s when the occasional blogger in me woke up all over again; thought I have an opinion about there.

My immediate quest led me to couple of blogs and reviews about the issue. Good God! It’s not even 12 hours in the incident, and part of the World Wide Web is flooded with SRK and the issue. By the time my opinion gets its space, there might just be a bandwidth problem whiles you Google for SRK. For all those who missed out, after the detention, SRK’s first immediate reaction was- “They have a problem with my name”. I think that was very pre-mature of him; but I could understand this position, that was the best he could offer to the world media when he just came out in tizzy. I’m sure he would like to change his statement, maybe in a much intelligent way, that justifies his wit and the gravity of the issue. I’ll cover that in the end. Another review talked about Ambika Soni with a ‘Tit for Tat’ statement. Ma’am! I’ve always liked you. But what is this? A Loose statement from a learned and senior politician like you? Maybe you could have given a more politically correct answer for now and carried on as an action item in any of those cabinet meetings and implemented in airport vigilance agenda. More so, when the Elections are just over and you don’t need minority votes for sure. Anyway, I like you. It happens with the best. But I have a few things to tell you. Wait till I reach the end. I drilled down further to other fan reviews. Some idiots said it was a publicity stunt. Excuse me! SRK does not need to do that, your idiotic mind needs rest. Likewise, many more.

US of A. I’m never a great admirer of this nation, its policies but again, I don’t hate it so much like our neighbor as well. There are many a good things in US for the world to like and take lessons from and a definite good amount of reasons to hate as well. And I would not like to be yet another over-confident Indian, who’s on a high and on a US bashing just because of the ‘land of opportunity’ tagline being shifted from the US to India. What is the incident? Why has it happened? Is it just about a name? To start off with, let us for once applaud that Americans do care for their people and their lives. Talk of the least; they make their people feel that that there is good governance, policy making and implementation around the policies. For an American Internal Security Policy makers, people of America are his priority. He would like to be checking each and every soul that checks into American land given the threats she faces as a nation. Unlike India, which is still vulnerable to aerial, water and land entries. But we are still talking about SRK? Who was been awaited by thousands of fans outside the airport. But for US officials, it might be another action to showcase the larger world, mostly to the nations where SRK is popular, that if SRK is not spared for a check or a suspicion, so would other Khans, and so would the other followers of Islam. And yes, there is a clear target audience against this action. And unfortunately, our very own SRK is the scapegoat this time. Unfortunately, because of some of the satanic minds, who spread terror in the name of Islam. And people like SRK and many other common man has to suffer those suspicious eye sights. Even otherwise, if high profile celebs could involve themselves in drug rackets and mafia, who know there could be a terror hand as well. Such are the times, and such unpredictable things could happen. What they did in this exercise could be a mock drill or a closing-down loopholes exercise. And they meant it to a specific segment, I repeat. What Mr.SRK could have done better, or many who face similar treatments could do better is by following the routine procedure with utmost sincerity to the law of the land. Huh! I don’t know the experience, is that what my Islamist friend is saying? No, my friend. I care for you. But that does not take away the fact that a subset in your set keeps impacting the world, harming human lives at the highest level. The best way to deal with the larger world, is by being a good example in all the sets and win your friends. You are upset? It’s not just?

Hear me out, my Asian/Islamist friend. Please manage yourself in this process for sometime. Until the next big Christian terrorism group comes out. There may be few here and there, but let’s wait for sometime, till we see someone who damages mass scale and magnitude. Trust me; the pointer would shift to Andrew or a Steve rather than a Akhtiar. But until then, you have to be with the larger human race, be a good Samaritan and be a part with the larger world. Because there’s more in the human race than the religion itself. Let me shift the focus to China. I love this country; do business with the country as well. Imagine a Chinese extremist (those who love words, go figure out the Chinese synonym of jihads, I’m not interested), imagine spreading the ill-motives in US and India. All Mongoloids would be vulnerable, right! People from NE India are already facing this, but this time, for a more major concern, life. You never know, even one of our Bishnupriya Manipuris could be detained; Questioned and released. And the victim would turn up to the blog and express his fury- ‘They did not like my face’. Or maybe express his worry about his resemblance with the most wanted terrorist – Hu Jintao from China and that his Sinha surname is false.
Lesson for all nations- Don’t talk about tit for tat to US policies, maybe we could have a more systematic and stringent check in our boundary lines. Show examples that you are active, very active. A terrorist mind would definitely take time, but more so because of the stringent checks you’ve put in. Jack Welch once said- Copy shamelessly. It applies to all in GE and I am no exception either. If there is a certain practice that needs attention, could be followed, lets not sensationalize it just because we cannot follow it in our system. We could learn that they could perform and practice their policies in just about everybody. Because it’s their country and their people. And they would do anything to keep their people safe. With the SRK episode, maybe they sent the signals across. As for SRK, the matter is already in the embassy for an explanation. I won’t be surprised if the next thing that comes out would be an apology letter/statement from the US consulate in India to SRK. They can’t even put the Asians residing in US at bay for long; they’ll cover them as well in the apology. Peace would prevail in a couple of days. BUT WILL INDIA EVER LEARN THE LESSON? WOULD THE MINORITY GET A LESSON because this minority tagline shifts its focus every now and then. Will he accept the time and circumstance gracefully; be an example or continue to play hide and seek with the rest of the world. Because there would be someone bound to take your place tomorrow and you’d relax thereafter.

Thank you Rakhi Sawant

I could not help but get glued to the headlines about your TV show being aired in the last couple of days. I got a glimpse in one of the news channels where eligible bachelors were arm wrestling in order to woo your heart.TRP ratings were into an all-time high, you commanded so much attention. Let me tell you for once that the whole of the India laughs off everything that you do but deep down, applauds for you. The media said it’s yet another Jade Goody stunt…I don’t need to know her, I only know Rakhi Sawant.There are still a few in the country who would understand your stand. And why not, you are a product and this was part of your productization; you incur value for the same. Seriously, if there’s one person who could do this, that was you. It was you who could pull this off with so much of élan.Rakhi! You do not know that by being part and the central protagonist of the show, you’ve actually been successful in throwing few minds into mythological studies, the history etc; the NCERT (National Council of Education Research and Training) has been really doing a bogus job; for they could hardly draw attention to our tech-savvy new age kids. But this show came as a pleasant change; students would now be curious and ask teachers and parents the whatever’s of Swayamvar! And in return, they could give mythological reference books. More so, Rakhi could be an universal ambassador for peace. Guess how?The so-called Swayamvar would give a fair treatment to the people involved. There would be no hush-hush over any decision making. The best man would win over the bride. The other competitors would duly recognize and celebrate for the winning duo, and then peace would prevail among all.Bishnupriya Manipuris would thank more to you, Rakhi. Imagine Bishnupriya Manipuris having Swayamvaras. It would sweep away all the malicious intentions away from us. First of all, in a Swayamvar, the chauvinism wont work, you have to perform there to win someone. There’s this friend of mine who hails from Delhi, who talked about a ratio of girl: boys as 1:4. I am not sure about the number, but don’t suspect my friend’s credibility either. If there be an Encyclopedia Bishnupriya Manipuri, he would definitely fit there as a CEO, for his vast knowledge base.Imagine the crisis. Coming back to the numbers, imagine guys flocking in for the same much in demand lady. Friends would turn foe, brothers would not see each others. “Ha! Ti te tor would be- boudi re te kiya charta”. Ohho!! Nagoi haan maatle! Ugo te tor bohokgo oitoi gonai!!”Men would stop flaunting their muscles every now and then, limit their cool quotient and concentrate more on the basics. Credit cards won’t buy them life partners, a firangi language won’t do good either. Men would be scratching their heads on what women wants. They would shape up and get everything possible when they don’t know what’s in store at a Swayamvar, just like an entrance exam, cover everything. Because, they could be tested in just about anything, based on the bride’s priority. At a Swayamvar, everything would go as per the bride’s wishes (so that tomorrow she does not have an option to say that not everything at her wish was tested) and most importantly, she would sit into a decision making chair. One mighty guy would be lucky and fittingly get absorbed for the job. The rest would walk away, just like any other interview, where they did not fit the role. PEACE. PEACE. WORLD PEACE.Rakhi. Truly it does not happen today. But we have a reason to think. Not all practices in the past were as bad as we thought. Under the circumstances today, a Swayamvar looks so apt. Now I know why the gods and goddesses could remain so harmonious.

Rational Thinking (Meant for another website)

One of the most prominent headlines in the last couple of months was about the amendments in IPC Section 377. The same was covered widely in National channels, Radios, internet and the print media. Even occasional bloggers like me found a reason to read and write as well, most importantly have an opinion about. So was Bollywood star Celina Jaitley who rose to the occasion; many claimed she took it as a launch pad towards limelight considering her dubious career moves in filmdom. But I liked her, for a change; for she took a road less traveled by celebs, an issue which is more of a social taboo to speak about to the larger India, forget about taking a stand. She’s got boobs (Ah! we all know that…then let’s call it silica free). Soon, you may find a third marital status in all your forms that you fill, ‘official’ Gay lounges everywhere. Soon, the porn magazines would read more of A-Spot than the customary G-Spot; Dildos would be available at the nearest store (Much like an average Indian who could only view Gay-Lesbian relationships as a sexual relationship). Talk about Bishnupriya Manipuri, who knows you might as well find another Nikhil Bishnupriya Manipuri Shomokaami Sansthan (Alrit now! It took me a good two minutes to google the term).

No! I am not here to do yet another Celina act. The landmark decision by the highest judicial body of the country, the Supreme Court sent across a greater message to the people of India than to our very own Gay & Lesbian (GL) Brothers and Sisters. That it is the human that comes first than morality, ethics, society etc. It is the human rights that comes first, then comes the question of practice, moral ethics etc. Yeah! There would be many eyebrows raised against this. Do this virtually; kill all the so-called GL Groups, leave none and live happily; rest for couple of years, you’d find another ‘unnatural’ (in your words) group coming up, that you and I don’t know of today. Kill ‘em all…then another would wake up. If this goes on, one fine day, you’ll come to me; put forward your decomposed rusty ass with a tattoo that reads ‘Screw me’. Because this is very much part of the evolution and we don’t have a choice but accept everyone into the society.

Coming back to the human factor, the Supreme Court calling is very much in-sync with the requirement of the times. The same amendment could not have been possible a decade or two back. In a way, the apex court’s decision is also to do with setting an example on decision-making while living in a civic society. It suggests that no rule, practice, culture, religion, cast or creed is more valuable than the human himself. It’s about time we realize that if the human lives, then shall the rest. Given the great Indian cultural background, we definitely wanted some time to change our perception, but not anymore. We have to regard Human Beings higher, in fact at the highest level. We need to have a more holistic view and then a perception about Human beings.

And the same holistic approach is on my agenda today. Forget about GLs, Bishnupriya Manipuris have different worries to talk and get concerned about. We have a small population and we are scattered; a little better than refugees who migrate and settle down anywhere we get bread and butter. We take pride in our great culture which is getting shift-deleted with each passing day. We have a handful of rituals where people gather to celebrate and more importantly, the youth is giving a miss to all of those. On top of it, we have groups of self-proclaimed guards of the culture and morality, the custodians; who would try and establish rules. “Gaangee bejaati biya koresi utaare na boreyo”, “Puri-Jelei, tolophuti saara na thaayo”, “Gaurapei, mondiree dhoti panjaabi chaara naayo”, “Divorcee ugor loge kiya biya ditangai” so on and so forth.

I used to appreciate Baba Ramdev for he helped cure thousands of disease-prone Indians, but most importantly he gave hope, with his Yogic expertise. But I despised his stand on the GL issue, calling this phenomenon as a disease. Because his short-sightedness could not see beyond the sexual relationship, that it contains a mental and emotional bonding very true to human beings. It showcased his lack of spiritual knowledge, because spiritualism comes along with Humanism. The same applies to the lesser known seniors, bujons and gurujons of Bishnupriya Manipuri, the so-called cultural custodians of this community. With due respects, it’s about time we all need to graduate ourselves in this holistic human perception. Our elders are surely our cultural backbone, but the Ramdev Baba approach is definitely a significant catalyst in our extincting cultural base. Because the Ramdev Baba approach is not looking at and taking into account, the human aspects for sure. We need to handle things differently from here on considering our kind of a diaspora.

Let’s do some maths. A Small population of Bishnupriya Manipuris. Minus all intercaste-marraiges (A potential BM next generation). Minus all divorcees (another potent next generation provider). Minus “Aamaar Thar na totortata uta”. Minus BM or loge nathaitara uta. Minus “Muni jelei jeta dhuti aar tolophuti pidiya mondiree naitaara uta”. “Nijor Gangor manure shahajyo nakortara uta”. And all such things. How many of us are then left as Bishnupriyas in the already smaller and scattered population? Can we afford to loose more brothers and sisters? And at the end of the day, you and I would conduct Joydeb together assuming we are the cultural saviors when the truth is we are doing nothing but creating a repulsive atmosphere where we don’t have anyone to receive the cultural knowledge base, most importantly the youth.

In the process, we are detaching our very own people, depriving many from our very own culture. Because we are forgetting that today’s 18+ are as much the custodians of our future, much as you and me. And it is mostly because of the social limits and perception being made by the generations elder to us and the society at large. The challenge that we have is the cultural transfer to the next generation, and here we are, detaching our own next generation. Ridiculous.

How do you think, today’s 18+ boy would come with a dhoti to the mandir except for some handful pro-Bishnupriyas. With all the diversions going along with him, coming in an ethnic self would be the last thing on his mind. In fact, if he has to visit the temple, there’s just one good reason to attend, Girls. And the feeling is reciprocal. And the 18+ thoughts and the Ramdev Baba’s thoughts do not match. If we are to think about reaching the larger goal, we better blend these two thought processes. We are not talking about someone pissing on the sanctum-sanctorum; a dress code should not be a barrier to attend a Paali, which stands so critical to our not-so-many-ritual culture. Yes! You are right…we followed it in our times. I remember our very own Editor Hebaniya doing it successfully, making a rule of sorts to wear our ethnic best, which was well received then. Because back then, we did not have too many diversions to involve our minds and hearts into, more so in the rural India. The same process would not work today. Imagine doing the same in our metro population. There are people who turn up with gusto, but there’s this small chunk that simply shies away because of ‘n’ reasons and we don’t need a Sigmund Freud to tell what they are. Going back to the history and possibility of following ethics, dynamics have drastically changed from then and now. Also, let’s also not forget that Bishnupriyas are not just about few net-savvy metro populations but truly in the heart of Patherkandi or a Koilashohor. You make a rule and the already not-so-interested kid would be more than happy to sit at home, talk to his sex-goddess over internet. We lost another kid there who would be devoid of the culture. True! It is important to have cultural discipline around. But why not do this. Get the kids around, in the way they want to be, make them sit and witness the whole cultural richness. The seniors lead from the front by dress code, other ritual norms etc. And I bet the third time, if not the second time, he would like to be doing what you’ve been doing. Likewise, an inter caste offspring could be a good ambassador for a BM. A Divorcee Male, accepted in society, could inject crores of safely guarded healthy sperm cells, good enuf to start a next generation; so is a divorcee female who could, if god willing, give a bonus of triplets and quadruplets, a community that want its count to be more and more (with all due respects to both of them). So what if somebody cannot speak the language/does not want to speak/makes fancy by speaking non-Bishnupriya (that’s very human of him); we can’t afford to loose him, we still need to invite him with open arms for the get-together happening; because without him, we are loosing on the entire thread connected along with him. And likewise, we have to come up with many more things that we did not think, talked and behaved before. A more rational thinking is the call of the day, given the liberal world we are into, which accounts for the benefit of a cultural growth and non-stagnation.

We’ve talked enough. We know our challenges as a community and its survival constraints. We’ve discussed numerous methodologies to deal with it. But we cannot implement any, provided we change into a more holistic approach towards human beings. Regard human beings around you, more so with the bishnupriyas around you. We have to kill all Baba Ramdev mindsets, be more rational. Remember that it is the human being that stands above all, practices shall follow him. If the man himself is missing, who’s gonna practice?
And it is not just for a certain age group to give a thought about; the whole of the community needs to have a re-look and move forward with this holistic approach for human beings. I don’t need to remind anyone where we are otherwise headed.

The Metrosexual Indian (For another website)

With the changing times in the Indian Economy post liberalization era, we’re witnessing a hell lot of social changes, its value system. While there has been lot of positives to be noted, there are quite a few negatives that could not be ignored. And the most affected is the middle class Indian youth, both positively and negatively. While the new found confidence backed by talent in the Indian youth does give the much required global recognition and space that our previous generations had been craving for; we’re also sliding down on preserving our cultural values, the family bondings that we’re known for. Overall, the whole of social structure is looking shaky by each passing day. With so many changes happening today, the youth today is definitely a confused lot, trying to focus which way to head towards. He’s doing really well in some aspects but ignored a few as well. While some consider the ignored aspects, they lag behind in the fast changing needs of the hour. But there is also, this new breed of Indian Youth, which balances between the two, carries everything along with the changing times and hits every platform with even more greater success. This is the global Indian, and the much glamorized ‘METROSEXUAL’ Indian youth.

Talk about the attitude of the youth, and you’d witness a whole lot of Bollywood and Hollywood influences, the what’s IN things, the IITs, IIMs and all of the top notch things. The youth today tries out every possible color and fabric in its attire, for those bring in brightness and energy. Good thought! You’d see entrepreneurship as the new serious career option, our bravery to take it up shows it all. Our western friends are awestruck of the diversified knowledge we display around. We take care of ourselves, groom ourselves up in the most possible way to be well accepted by the other gender, but this time it is not limited to boundaries, for I may be wooing a Mexican Lady or an Italian Lad. In one of my encounters when I was cooling down with my client in a popular joint, he questioned- “Isn’t this pubbing thing British that you guys have inculcated”. Himself being from a developing nation and working later in Dubai, he was definitely well read about India but shocked to see the new India. And I had to give him a fitting response with even more global acceptance that I really don’t care whether it is British or Afro-American, all I know is, it is yet another way to unwind myself up and I, like many other Indians, would like to come here and rejuvenate. And yes, it has nothing to do with diluting my culture. Wish I had good enough time to run him through some cultural dosages as well. Moving on, a Dhoni coming from a Jharkhand makes his way for the most coveted role that any Indian would aspire to be; today’s youth is exuberant in doing things irrespective of whatever you are and wherever you are from. In spite of the system that we have in the country, clearly knowing the flaws that we have around, we still move on.

Having said all of it, you’re still not the Metrosexual guy that you set an example for all; being metrosexual is far from over. We need to understand its meaning far more deeply on Indian context, which is much more than what magazines like GQ and Cosmopolitan covers. That Indian Metrosexual is better off by thousand miles than its global counterparts, needs to be understood. We come up with self proclaimed lines like BE YOURSELF etc, Good!! But its not bad either to inculcate the best practices as well within you.

Are you Metrosexual? Do you belong to this elite breed of new Indian Metro sexual? Ask yourself.




I could be a globetrotter, switching over different landscapes; I could still fail to impress some part of the world because of my cultural ignorance. I could be earning a fat pay check, well respected within my peers and the system I belong but if I’m still not a hit among my community men, it goes on to prove that I actually lack a very important aspect, even the same peer group would remark that later. For those who say they don’t need to socialize within their community, watch out my friend!! You’re not yet enlightened as yet because you’ve failed in some major human traits. Grow up!! For those who believe you’re the first, and needs to be dealt respectfully, please ask yourself how this has made an impact by being the first. Besides, please understand that there’s always someone to topple you.




The Metrosexual Indian (I believe a Bishnupriya will fall under the same bracket) is much appreciated by global audience and respected by locals. Because you may be playing Satriani in every other concert in the town, but you managed to make up an original which associates with your culture and your community. Because you don’t bother that you’d not mind a limited crowd today but you know the number is only increasing. Because you are an entrepreneur and boggled your mind to name your new venture, per all the marketing and branding concepts in books and come up with IMABABA.com which gives about a whole new perspective, rather a much deeper one. Because, you’re not only a hit among your present circle today but you’re not forgotten by your old friends with whom you celebrated your MERAMERI. Because maybe you’re a tattoo freak, but instead of a CHE’s revolutionary image, you chose Sadhuthakur’s; imagine the kind of curiosity people will have and endorsement you’d do; and in turn you earn that respect for what you are and what you believe in. Because you’re not cribbing about the bureaucracy and red-tapism that we have around but sincerely making an effort to vote, thereby being a part of the electoral system.
Because you try the different fabrics ranging from the Gucci to the Fab India, and you did get your share of appreciations for that. You always look great in that white shirt and denim, but you are also aware that your female following increased only when you turned up in that Dhoti that you wore, showcasing the man at his best. Also, not to forget, you got noticed because you were part of the home-away-from-home get together that occurred in the city. You’re Metrosexual because not just you took your girl friend/spouse to the finest places but also because you’ve managed to take your parents on a spiritual tour. Because you realize that there would be a time that you’d seek spiritual knowledge as well. For you do not entangle your thoughts in cast, creed and community; rather speak and believe like a human being. For you’re very sincere with your family in spite of managing everything mentioned in the above. The Great Indian Metrosexual. The metrosexual Bishnupriya Manipuri. You look dashing, you personify man!!


Hot and happening Lady!! You’re advancing way ahead of me. You’ve set in examples that I could only salute to. You’ve done everyone proud. You stood ahead of boys, always spoke sense. Boys could only kneel down to your gorgeous looks. The whole of the system still swears by the perfect curves that you have, the Lycra blended low waist denim that you wore, revealing your perfect buttocks that would put the likes of Eva Mendis or a JLO to shame. But let me provide some more feedback. The same lot went wild over when you turned up in that chakchaabi and Tolofuti. You know why, that was elegance at its best. And I know that you’re aware of the fact, you try the same trick over and over again. But never mind, we men love you for that and fall for you every time we get us that visual treat from you. You’ve been fighting your freedom since ages. But today, you earn the freedom from every relationship, be it as a daughter, girl friend/spouse. Because we know that you’ve been with smokers and dopers but you’ve still managed to build the incomplete house. Because you’re looking for your prince charming as well, giving a chance to the aspirants around you, but you don’t forget that there’s work that needs to be done for your siblings as well. You care as much for the dark circles appearing because of the night shifts that you attend, much like you do for your aging parents. Because you give strength to your simple boyfriend to fight against all odds by doing the same yourself. Because in spite of all the glamour you are part of, you still surprise me with your ‘being bishnupriya’ factor that makes my inclination all the more stronger for my community. You brought in all the values that I almost lost it while developing the so-called modern ethics. The BM metrosexual women…We all love you…respect the way you are.


For the rest who’re not yet up there; stop flaunting your self-proclaimed cool quotient and be happy to be counted among the larger group. Because if you are the best and you personify the Indian male/female at the highest level, you would not need to promote yourself, you’d be put through automatically and get the necessary attention and recognition that you deserve.

So, are you really metrosexual? A BM metrosexual rather !!

Suggestion for the “wanna-be’s- Your process of being the metrosexual starts right from here. With every click that you make here on the site, understand that you're taking another step towards making it to the elite club J

International Woman's Day

We know them with different names for all the different roles they handle at a go. On this day, when the world recognizes their very existence on the mother earth, I could not help but to pen down their importance in the human life, its very existence. For they have been there, always…in one way or the other. We men for once have to send out this message loud and clear that we can’t be without you, do without you, ma’am!!

You’ve been a figure of strength to everyone around, Ima!! I have witnessed how you supported when everyone in the family has just given in. You’ve always been there to save my ass every time I was supposed to get screwed from my boss, your husband. That’s not all; you continued to have faith in me when the whole world was against me. There are times you took some harsh decisions but tell you what, I understand that it was meant for the well being of all. You went against all odds to keep everyone happy and content in the family. I cannot forget the sacrifices you’ve been giving for the joy of everyone. I still cannot forget the sleepless nights you went thru only to support me when immunity system was not at its best. I now get goose bumps when I think of the tears that you shed, because of me leaving out of station or things that let you down. You’ve always stood my father, stood my me…been the pillar of strength to us, and banged us down when we went out of control during different stages of life. Thank you for being there.

Ahha! You gave me a reason to be at home, fight for all the silly reasons that we now fondly remember, Sis!! But frankly, with you around, I got my first sense of being responsible. I learnt to be caring, being respectful towards others of your kind. The competition just started back home, when you were just doing everything well when I was merely passing in different challenges of life. Thanks for letting the world know about my misdeeds, getting me those spanks, for today I would not have been what I’m, without those spying efforts from you. It is always going to be a tough decision to let you go tomorrow into another home, bowing to the customary systems of the society. I love you for what you are.


The Partner!! I have a hell lot of thanks to give you about. I actually got moulded and polishing because of your presence. The graduation from a child to a guy happened because of your presence. I would not have thought of taking care of myself unless I would not have tried to woo you. Thanks for showing interest in many of my counterparts for it always kept me on my toes. Thanks for not showing up online, not receiving my calls and coming in late that now I’m a more patient and a more balanced guy around. It was because of you that I developed the testosterone drive and became a natural homo sapiens to get attracted you you. You taught me etiquette for the larger world. And even a greater amount of thanksgiving goes to you for being the better half of my life; you’ve brought in all the colors in my life.

Having said all of these, but I do understand the challenges you all face in the society. Tell you what, however the males reacts, deep down they always regard you for what you are, some fail to recognize it, few cannot acknowledge it. You are always looked upon in whatever role you play. We, the men, salute you for what you are. You complete us. And we always love you.

Outsourcing employess: Wake Up!!

The buzzword Outsourcing today needs no introduction among the average Indian Youth. We see other synonyms in the form of Call Center, BPO, KPO, LPO etc. An average graduate looks out for one of these as soon he steps out of college. He brings along a fat salary in the first month itself, quite unheard of during the previous generations. Suddenly, he/she belongs the most suited son/daughter, boyfriend/girl friend, husband/wife. In comes a lifestyle, where black and white is just a color, gadgets became a must-have, shopping experiences were like never before. People now don’t watch a high-voltage match in homes, they will hit the nearest pub over a sip of beer, hang out there, celebrate every boundary and over it with great pomp and show. The youth today bears all the medical expenses with the coverage he gets for his dependents; gets his hatchback at the earliest, but ensures he goes to Tirupati with the same as well.

But behind all of these, with all the focus in the industry, there has been an intense scrutiny over the sustenance and credibility of it. With all the analyst reports (which one to believe in?) flowing in from all the major banners, you can hardly ignore the gripping that the same youth is getting into. A thought of where do I see myself 5 years down the line? Is the industry going to be in there for a long time, what will I do afterwards? All of that. Inspite of his happy present, his thought process is limiting and cannot see beyond.

Outsourcing is not just about call centers and BPOs, to begin with. There is a whole lot of quality work that comes along with it. Any part of the business could be outsourced. Whether you’ve converting sales or collecting sales, sourcing products, collecting market intelligence for your client, maintaining contracts, insurance coverage maintenance, providing legal management support, IT support and maintenance, provide analytical support to the business and so on. You name it and you’ll find everything right there. Let us also accept the fact that today, the toughest competition lies here with candidates coming from the all backgrounds play out here. But what we need to understand and graduate ourselves there is, outsourcing in not just another business decision to reduce cost but is very much a business requirement, a rather global requirement. The best minds across all industries believe in the mantra and are opting for the change called off shoring. We have to understand the nuances of the business, take pride in the work that we do, and without an element of doubt, keep developing the professional within us.

Cost is definitely an important driver for such a business decision but let us not consider ourselves as low wage workers for the western world. Let us understand that it could not have sustained only because of the cost factor. Along with it, what keeps us ahead in the league is the quality of output the Indian Outsourcing industry provides. India is a proud owner of the highest number of graduates and post-graduates in the world. We definitely have a better EQ in terms of providing business solutions. However, it is disturbing to note that some C-Grade establishments help in reducing the number by hiring undergraduates just to have some high energy resources. But in the process, the so-called employers forget or do not care about the long term career of the candidate. There are a lot of innovative ideas that came out over a period of time in the human resource management with the developing industry, to tackle this. Not everyone though, but some do have a ‘learn while you earn’ concepts, which is good. But not everyone handles books and big bucks at the early twenties well, do we?? The same C-Grade employers forget that they are actually encouraging a whole bunch of unskilled resources which could only be identified at a level later.


Having said all of it, a professional’s worry is not void. There are definitely concerns over the jobs. We are already loosing our cost factor edge to countries to Philippines, Romania etc., it even reached places like Guatemala. Our command over the international language is slowly loosing the shine, as smaller developing countries are actually looking at India and are slowly but silently creating their workforce. China has a very skilled labor but lacked on the language front; but they understand their problem, and have now launched a crusade to get their skilled labor more international and crossing their language barrier, their government policies says it all.

Its now time to play the game on our strength. Realise our strength, that we have the resources to provide the quality that is unmatched. We talk about adding value to the business but do we really practice that. But we have inculcate it, think in those lines every time we provide solution to our business partners. People sitting across the table would be saying that he has a better cost destination then why you? There would be questions asked for they are paying for it. But we have to qualify that with the offering that we have.

What the individual professional could do here? Literally everything. For the starters, don’t you start off without completing your education. Understand that you could face problems later in your career when you take up expanded assignments. I mean those who have circumstances that lead you to, it’s fine but otherwise, if I have to suggest someone I would tell him to finish education first.

Develop and enhance your skill sets time over time…see what your developmental needs are and fulfill that at the earliest. See what the requirements of the times are. Make sure you spend quality time at your level to have the domain expertise. Today, employers look for people who have a wealth of knowledge in their respective domains. See your strength, what you are good at and proceed!! Job hoppers…understand that you spend quality time before you actually think of moving out for greener pastures. Because, now you’d be questioned if you can really add in some value to the organization. The hiring department has no never been this choosy. They will definitely question you loyalty and credibility at every interview that you attend and we’d start failing to crack a smart interview unless we have it in us.

In all, be an asset that an organization would love to have. It looks like yet another GYAN but that’s the way it is. Beware, our actions and sincerity towards the job drives the industry. It’s high time we as Indians get the right ethics in place. If the industry is looking for other shores than our’s, then it is because of our actions that we will let the scenario deteriorate. But on an overall, let’s play on our age old strength and get back the shine that we all Indian talent pool is known for. Even if an Obama or Gordon Brown has to make some steps for its people but Outsourcing shall still be a reality. The only difference is, we the people have to, individually, pull up our socks, and get outs together now. This complacency factor has to be cut out of us. Am sure we’ll have a better life with better jobs for a long time provided we get the fundamentals right. So go, get your job, lead a life that you always wanted. With every job created, understand that you are also benefiting the business and nation…so be responsible and go for it without any qualms. This the best period in Indian history, recession or no, we would rule. But the time has come for us to be more responsible than what we were ever before.


P.S- I did not put any statistics because you already have an OD of it from the everyday media. For once, let’s speak and understand like layman and get on to the business.

Filler writeup!!

Here I’m once again to keep myself as active as possible. This is no write-up as such; it’s more of a self assessment. I started of with the Blog couple of months back, only to migrate from another portal. And I said myself to be more active on this, possibly 4-5 write-ups every month. Somehow, I have been able to meet my expectations.

Things are going pretty well. Last week, I had couple of things in my mind to write but somehow time did not allow me to do so. Most importantly, the Australian Open. Nadal Vs Federer. What a match it was. A sporting treat. I had all the highlights in my mind, set by set, but by the time, I sat down to write in, it seems to have faded in some way. Federer has been my favourite, however, Nadal is surely the next big thing. I mean he has already won couple of Grand Slams, even bettering Fedex in most of the matches, but Australian Open 2009 would now surely put him into this elite club. Federer’s tears said it all, how tough it was for him to let it go; I mean he just gave his all, but he realizes someone outplayed him. I was always in awe of the backend Fedex has, but here’s someone who bettered, and boy! How better was he. The unbelievable angular shots, athleticism. Nadal, I’m going to follow him from now; but again, I’ll not forget Roger, I hope he goes on with one more Grand slam to catch up with Pete Sampras and topple him.

Couple of things happening at the personal front. Feeling good about the changes. For once, I went to the Office Gym last Monday. Huh! It was a difficult step. As if I’m entering a temple. I saw the weights, multi gym, benches..and finally the cardio machine. For me, a tread mill is where I belong, I guess I need to stick around with it for the next couple of months. Last year, I was in the same gym only to fulfill my membership( I had bi-annual meaning two days in the year) and done. And yes, this time around, I raised my bar, its been a week now! Hopefully it will continue for sometime.

The Gyming efforts came in only because of the food that I take now. For a change, I’ve having home food, yes! I got myself a new cook. He’s a Bong, so we have the eastern connection. All I have to do is, do myself a DJing act. I play some Kishore Kumar numbers, coupled with some Mithunda & Bappi da numbers from the net, and he’s all smiles, his happiness comes out in the dish. I take food in office as well, to me, it’s a great satisfaction for I have been attending the same cafeteria for ages now. However, I’d rather keep my fingers crossed for now, for this is the third cook that I got in a span of 6 months.

As I’m writing this piece, my TV is on, and ‘am simultaneously catching up with it. NDTV has come up with this noble initiative GREENATHON. Great! Corporate Responsibility is essential, does help in the nation building. Good to see the media getting into it. Specially for a very important cause, lighting up villages that never saw lighting. There’s this solar lantern that has come out, feels like respecting those who invented this. There’s a mass clean up doing in the banks of Yamuna, as part of the initiative. Worth an applaud. Even I loiter around every now and then, but acts like this makes you pause and thing. There’s something that needs to be in the curriculum of every institution, public and private organization, COMMUNITY SERVICE. The west has it in their’s, even we have it in some of our schools. But there’s a mandatory. Hope NCERT takes a note on this. I know corporates show a lot of effort in community service, a lot is being observed in voluntary involvement. People take up causes in Old age homes, free education in orphanages, distributing books and notebooks etc. Bangalore has this whole traffic control issue. There were few voluntaries that supported the traffic police during weekends. But I guess we need to make more on the cleanliness part of the city.

Just saw the announcement in NDTV that the intiative crossed the 2 crores level of donation. My appreciation goes to the Bollywood fraternity, people who are involved in the cause. I like Preity Zinta, she’s always there for such causes. On an overall note, yes! it was all in a noble cause, nation building cause.

And I, definitely shall continue to keep jotting down my thoughts as and when I find time…

BOYS TURNED MEN

I’m just back from a party, rested my ass down and started jotting down on my experience just couple of hours back. I was in a pub, and for a change, I looked clean coming out of a pub. What happened was, last week, we exchanged couple of mails; I’m talking about my college mates Roop, Surya and Saptarishi. It’s been a long time we actually met, so decided to catch up this Saturday. Saptarishi stays in Chennai so can’t make it. We decided on the time and venue.

It was again one of those head banger’s pub, which we usually associate ourselves with. I also suggested this for my own selfish reason, for it is a walk able distance from my house. As usual, we reached an hour late than the said time…knowing each other’s punctuality. And as usual, I was the last to make an entry. The guards cordially took the cover charges before even I could smell the beer. Never mind, I was going to meet some good ol’ friends. Roop guided me towards the table. “Hey dude! How are you?” That’s Surya for you. Not surprised by his pretty long hair…somewhat a Jim Morrison look, with his facial structure and expression, the only exception being the ‘Hetfield’ goatee that he flaunts. We exchanged hugs and sat across. Roop, the married man, the chocolate boy he is, still the same old person with an evergreen smile…point to be noted, he’s happy even after marriage.

Heh!! We all started with our missing friend, Saptarishi. Looked back at how Saptarishi spent hours in the mirror, just to have a glimpse of that perfect jaw line in him, his over-conscious walking style, blah! Blah!! Tell you what, you love this guy or hate him but you can’t ignore him. That’s the impact he has among all of us. We kept shuffling our attention between the finger chips and the LCD screen. The Bose effect does make a difference along with the visual treat. Suddenly, Santana appeared with his ‘Black Magic women’ number and Surya comments- “He’s very over-rated a guitarist”. We had no choice but to agree with the master.

Let me introduce these buggers to you.
Surya, I guess he was born with a guitar in his hand. Had been our source to get introduced to the best chicks of the college. Alright!! Let me correct myself, the so-called chicks turned out to be good friends later and we loved them for what they were. A real rock star. You should not be surprised to find him in any of the live acts that keep on happening in the city. The last being in Mysore Purple Haze. Has a band, along with 3 other tamilians. I felt his band name should have been TherMIL and a quarter. Works with a Banking major and still manages to follow his passion. Great!!

Roop! Ah!! Both of us date back when we were just 12 years old. Lot of fond memories that we shared together. He’s a crowd puller, humorous, an entrepreneur in the making and off course, MARRIED. I have seen many guitarists but never a dedicated student of his sort. I bet no one would ever cover a Satriani number as fast as he did. I cannot forget those days when he had to choose between two of his books- ‘Let us C’ and the file containing ‘best practices of guitar notes’ that he downloaded after hours of surfing. And off course, his fetish for Potato fry. I also cannot forget how he fumed at my ‘No fine’ status versus his ‘Fine for short attentence’. For the benefit of the readers, my friend managed to get 65% (10% short per norms) attendance in one of those years in graduation against my 8%. I just hope my friend understands that fortune favors the brave. He's into Pre- sales technicals.

I would also like to introduce our missing partner.
The gigantic Saptarishi. Possibly the strongest man in the whole batch. Works out like anything, eats like never had before. His legs are always on the move…be it in action or at sleep. He's no exception but also a music lover & and boy! his genre changes from Metallica to Bappi Lahiri. But let me admit for once that he epitomize the perfect Aryan Male, only if he changes that ‘Check my jaw line’ looks. Software professional.

And I need no introduction.
It was with this bunch that we spent the larger part of our monthly pocket money in the just opened ‘Styx’; woke lazily up only to hear our owner, Mr. Police Commissioner crying out loud at the other Mauritian bunch- “Kya Karta, Idher DING-DONG karta kya”?? I remember trying SUPW skills on the bottles just to get that perfect ‘Submarine’. I remember that special weed that came across from the far east, only to witness my nervous system, the CHAKRAS of my soul, the almost OD incident. I remember all jamming up in the terrace, sharing the last joint puff by puff. The terrace has been there for other things as well. It helped us get that perfect position to have a glimpse at the new chicks on the block and betting on the first chick we can get into the house. And yes, I won that…but don’t question the quality! Again, she was a nice human being; respect the girl for what she was. Remember the Management Vs Science debate, it always went on and on.

OH!! It’s Freddie Mercury on the screen. We looked at his usual on stage antics. But we had to make sure this time we’re meeting for a talk, rather than the music bit. We laughed, smiled, mocked but somewhere a bit formal as well. I guess, when these guys will read…they’ll also blush. But was wondering, is it the same bunch that I talked about in the above para? For a change, we were discussing positive things, life in general. How things are at everybody’s end and how are we coping with those? In came Steve Morse and we silently conveyed our respect to him for we three of us went on for the first major live concert in India, Deep Purple, witnessed them from close quarters. Saw another gang enjoying their party adding only to the noise pollution we had around. Then came, James Hetfield. We smiled, for he ruled us for a good 2-3 years during college. We all agreed that Metallica defines thrash metal. However, there were different comments from my fellow friends about St.Anger. Does not matter! We moved.


After couple of guzzlings, for a change we decided to leave for home by 11pm. And also, we did maintain punctuality. For a change, Surya is worried about cops in his area. For a change, I was thinking of getting back home when the BOOZOMETER has just started ticking. And there’s no change, when Roop’s heading for Bhaabi.

Signed the cheques and walked out. I don’t know when and how, we got involved into somewhat a rather uninteresting discussion. Terms like soul, energy, Yoga started flowing. It was a mix of Spirituality and Scientology all involved. I had witnessed some inclination in Roop earlier on, but Surya surprised me, now he was talking about cosmic energy, how the learned lots attain. They went on to recommend books. I was looking them like a curious learner (where they doped). Okay!!

We bid ourselves good night…dispersed from there, hoping to catch up on a monthly basis, considering the characters in this group being the busiest of all.
I was blushing all the way back to my home. I was like is it the same old guys? How things change in life?? It looked to me like the BOYS got converted now; and now could be suitably christened as MEN!!

The Other Police

“If electricity comes from electrons,
Does morality comes from morons?”

Saw this one liner in a tiny box given in The Times of India today. The entire page is dedicated to the morality and so-called cultural custodians. The journos did a good job in capturing a photo of a T-print of the western term ‘The Gypsy River Broadband’, proudly displayed by one among the moral brigade. The whole issue, doing the rounds in all media houses for the last couple of days, on the ‘Mangalore Pub’ incident. For all those, who’re not keeping a track on the news and views, couple of days back, in one of the pubs in Mangalore, the so-called moral policemen bumped in, harassed the women and threw them out of the pub. Mangalore, being in the vicinity of the Silicon Valley, made a definite stir in Bangalore and so the Govt.bodies, the white-collared lots, and the average Kannadiga & Non reacting on the same. What I got to hear later from Times Now is, just because the media highlighted the incident, the police force in general and the political circuit began to react (in terms of airing their voices); otherwise it would have probably remained unheard about like many other incidents happening in India and no one really would ever voice their concerns. The best things about these incidents is, you’d get to hear your politicians coming out and airing their voices; they’d surprise you with their articulation in condemning such actions (barbaric, undemocratic, ‘talibanization’, some of them really fancy and jazzy…only to find a place in the headlines of the newspaper next day. And most importantly, the pub hopper in me could not sit idle when the CM came out against pub culture. Mr.CM, for your information, Pubbing is just not an industry in Bangalore but a way of living, and people are equally religious about it like they are with cricket. Fine, we’ve agreed upon the timelines you’ve set, but let me re-iterate the fact to you that Pubbing is a synonym of a Bangalorean.


But yes! On a serious note, it’s high time these incidents need to be given a thought about and turn those into actions. We take pride in calling ourselves the largest democracy in the world, but why can’t we draw a line between our cultural discipline and human rights. I can understand the literacy ratio within the nation, a rather large population that is carried away by the rotten leadership they fall prey under. Then who’s going to bridge the gap and help the less fortunate to enlighten, help them better their thought processes and decision making.

All such incidents highlight the other Indian residing in the earth, which the majority of India hates to admit. Along with the techie and spiritual Indian, there exists a hypocrite Indian (which outnumbers the said former titles), a hypocrite male, to be very precise. He who does not want to share the same podium, sit across the same table, attain the same height together along with the only other gender. When things do not go his way, he finds it challenging and in the process, the unsocial animal within him starts ruling. He’s hypocrite because he can attend other women but can’t see his partner doing the same. He can get physical when he does want his level of sexual pleasure but don’t mind leaving the same partner half way once he’s done. When questioned, he’ll retaliate, accuse her being uninteresting but would never admit the deteriorating potentials he has. Why? Why can’t we be ourselves?? We cant we embrace the reality.

There could be variety of reasons that may come up. I associate such acts with another psychological aspect. The minds involved in brainwashing or acting as leads, most of them, belonged to the era before the 90s. With all the economic reforms and changes in the 90s and thereafter, it brought in the two genders much closer, sharing more social & unsocial spaces & moments. There’s this lot which missed out on this wonderful moment of emotions and celebrations, in fact could not avail it. There’s this burning unfulfilled desire coupled with regret, a sort of remorse of not being there, doing things that people today do. Which ultimately leads to variety of resistance to see all such spaces and moments. Had Sir Sigmund Freud been alive, he would have agreed upon this theory of mine. But this is human being, he will take his own sweet time to change perception. And a billion minds will definitely take much time. But yes, it can get faster.

How can we do that? Ma’am! Rise, Resist, Revolt. Celebrate your freedom, promote the same, and convey the message to all that it is your birth right. I know you do not find too many support for the same today, but let me assure you that the number is only increasing. Why can’t you dance your heart away when the men have been doing since time immemorial? Why can’t you let your hair down over a sip of Vodkatini after a hard day’s work? A greater message to all the political parties, I’m not voting for you. With due respects to your party objectives, wherever you resort to any undemocratic act, whenever you’re violating the human rights; be assured that I lost hope on you. It’s high time you pay the price for not listening to my voice, for not caring my views. People chairing important seats, understand your roles and react, wish we can put a TAT behind these nerds. I see some active people like Renuka Choudhary, Minister of Women and Child Development, but other policy makers also need to be on the same platform.


I have a brilliant idea! The Valentine’s Day is coming up next, I’m sure the same gang must have had their plans chalked out for making an impact. Let’s all go to the Police Commissioner’s office and ask for security, get the media and air “THE MASS DATING EVENT”. A fitting response to those who tries to enforce their lousy discipline in the name of being a custodian for culture. It will give an idea that morality comes from within and does not come with suppression.

In the potty!!

After a much needed Friday night party, I woke up early in the Saturday morning. There’s this strange thing in me; whenever I add some alcohol to my dinner, I have a tendency to wake up early on time. My eyes opened up at 7.49am, my mobile confirmed. Good job! My hands quickly reached out to the water bottle nearby; I had to call the nature at my schedule. Soon enuf, I got the kicks, rushed towards the bathroom. I never forget the fag along with me. Shit! Where’s the towel? Ugghh!! i ran to pick it up and put my ass down in the throne.

Temple- Tell you what, my bathroom is my temple. It is this place where I pray to God, thank him for everything, think of the world and life and come out enlightened. But this was no ordinary day…only later that I came to know.

I started my experience. Oh! What a relief!! There are few experiences I regard among the best…Drink water after thirst, clear your kidney after a long wait, a hard-earned orgy and this is another. I was just breathing a sigh of relief, when suddenly…”WILL YOU EVER GET RID OF THE JUNKIES THAT YOU EAT EVERYDAY”, echoed a voice. I was like who’s it? “Sir, you mind introducing yourself!”. “It’s ME, you guys call me GOD, your soul…”. “Now, what the hell are you doing here? As far as my knowledge goes, I knew you as being straight, not sure if ‘am misinformed”, I said confused. “Now cut the crap and answer to me”, he was furious. It took me sometime to get real.

“Well, actually! I stay single and find it difficult to walk up to the kitchen everyday and therefore I head for the nearest joint to have food, you know it all”. “Will you ever get out of the excuses, and get sincere”. I forgot who ‘am talking to. “And what’s this fag doing here with you”. “It helps to put the nature as per my schedule, you know”. “Now, don’t act smart, don’t you call me tomorrow when your partner looks for alternatives other than you”. This was big; I immediately lit off the almost finished bud. “You know it all, sir…all the work around me, responsibilities etc. keeps me under a lot of stress, so I go for a smoke or two”. “Bugger, who are you playing with, I never created you indifferently. And by the way, what are your problems; help me count some”. “Sir, where do I start from…the credit cards…there’s lot of pressure to close them”. “Boy, you should have used it sensibly”. “Why do you keep increasing them time to time”, I shot back putting the ball at his court, yeah! Well, you were one of my chosen ones to have availed it, BUT NOT ANYMORE”. Meow!! “Sorry father”. “Okay! Now…move on”.

“Sir, It’s this hair that’s causing a problem, I mean I don’t get this attention at all these days, you know, am loosing it all. There’s no hair lose as such but the root itself is getting blocked, could you help me with this? ”Huh! What were you doing all these years; did you ever take care of your epidermis? “Well, yeah! I guess not”. “But yeah! I did put a lot of efforts in my professional aspects, then why am I still getting peanuts”. This was a sure shot blow I thought. “So that you learn the hard way, concentrate on basics, lay your foundation, you’ll reap rich dividends later”, now this was a soother but I wanted to ask him about the end of this never ending process. Nevertheless, we moved on.
“So, what’s up next, what are your plans ahead?” “Well! I have made some action items, you know…”. “Stop there! I’ve been listening to these every first month of the year, would those ever get into the implementation stage” He shouted before I could close my line. “Well sir, I have been making efforts but somehow could not”. “Its high time you get your act together, boy!!” I nodded my head in agreement. HE was right.

“Alright now, get yourself cleaned up now…would you? Keep working sincerely…that’s all I would say. Give a buzz to your inner self, you’d find me around you. But yes, don’t you call me here, I’d be better off in your living room".

I did not hear anything else after that, silence prevailed in the bathroom. I quickly cleaned up, soaped myself up like never before, and came out. Yet another lesson…came out enlightened.

The 'Slumdog Millionaire' experience

It’s been a while that I’ve been hearing about this movie ‘Slum dog Millionaire’. As the name suggests, it made an immediate impact with the viewer in me, much to the liking of the marketing division of ‘Slumdog Inc.’ would have wanted to. I could not resist the call and went for the hunt. Went to the nearest store, only to hear- ‘Sir, chala gaya’. Grrhhh!! “Abbe! Kitne copy banaye the tune”, to which came an astounding response- ‘Sir, saat’. Seven DVDs! all out for rent at the same time…sounds interesting. I became all the more curious, now how on earth could I be an exception to have not watched it? I walked faster towards the next DVD Store. I usually don’t enjoy too much of walks, but I had to get this. Tell you what; you can do the impossible, provided you are interested. I usually take a rick to reach my shuttle point everyday for office; there’s no energy then because it’s ‘just another day’ at work. And here you go, the same guy is walking all over in his quest for a Rs15 DVD. Finally, I reached another store that I had in mind, only to see the owner gheraod by customers like me. I saw one asking for ‘Australia’, that’s fine with me. Then there’s a couple arguing over ‘When Harry met Sally’ and ‘Casablanca’. “Good God”, I said to myself, “Can I suggest something, go watch ‘Adam and Eve or a Blue Lagoon or try playing the lead role instead at home’ but please, for god’s sake, move your decomposed, rusty asses outta here”. The girl suddenly looked at me, as if she just heard me, saw my impatient face and moved her way out. Thank you, sweetie! She was pretty, must say!

Ah! I got it!! My efforts paid off. I walked my way out of the store, silently conveying my apology to the producers of SM for having encouraged piracy one more time. I reached my gate, suddenly my inner self called out ‘I don’t have popcorns’. But a packs of chips would do, and yes, a pack of cigarettes probably to celebrate every crucial moment of the movie. Ran to the store all over again for the 50m stretch (I actually ran) and got my inventory.

My audio-visual set up is always on the ‘Go’ mode. I take pride in my Philips home theatre, a sound investment, something that brought me cheers during my crisis. The 19th century TV is a big let-down but again, its been there since the third month of my professional career; besides, I get possessive about my stuffs, am not letting it go before it retires. Switched the theatre on, the Denzil Washington series came out; oh! I only finished 2 out of 6. Inserted my catch of the day ‘Slumdog millionaire’, quickly pulled my hardly-bean bag, rested my ass on it and lit a fag. All Set.

Slumdog Millionaire!!
Hmm!! Slums of Mumbai are on display. Kids running all around. The camera work looked good, looked real. Heard critics earlier on the same, it seems the camera captured only the bad India. So what! That’s work, the story required it. Besides, behind all the Incredible India and economic growth, we also need to accept the fact that it actually exists. In came Irrfan Khan, I like this guys…this bugger is no natural, I like him. Huh!! The Motu of ‘Satya’ fame was also around. Saw the protagonist for the first time, the kid is okay! Ah! then came Anil Kapoor on the sets of KBC-like. He was intense, looked impressive in the character. With the quiz kicking in, the story began to unfold, going back to the protagonist’s childhood. I knew this before that there actually is 3 different casting done in this movie, it was a challenge for them, claimed the director. The first phase actually had kids originally from the slums, it was said. Never mind, the kid coming out of shit-hole to catch up with the duplicate Big-B was differently interesting. The kid was struggling in his life. Also shown is his childhood love, how sweet. Suddenly, Saif Ali got my attention, it was the pack of chips. Idiot he is, he helps us gain weight at one side, and on the other hand, his girl Kareena is inspiring millions to get that zero size. WTF!! Let’s move on. The second cast. The kids seemed trained or maybe NRI kids, their accent confirmed it. And now, there was English flowing in, to meet the international viewers. Couple of top class north Indian slangs gave this Indian feel in tandem. Hehe! But not many would enjoy this for long, for the censor board will definitely replace it with their supposedly censoring Beep. Anil Kapoor looked impressive again, I did not see much of him so far, he did not have too much of screen time; but he has already made an impact in me. I agreed to media gossips, he surely is the successor for the next season of KBC, he can make it. Besides, this man deserves some accolades, he’s been around for so long, he kept on re-inventing himself, survived through all the competitiveness in the business and still going strong; I do appreciate the professional in him. Each question led to a story and showed the struggle of the protagonist; the Taj Mahal episode, it was nice. It would definitely sound familiar to the international audience for sure. The kids going to the brothel, okay scene but overall the storyline was becoming interesting. My cerebral cells wanted nicotine and I obliged with one. Third cast. This kid found his love interest after another betrayal by his brother. This time the girl was nice, dusky and pretty ok. Let me tell you, the fact that the movie looked real was, that there were no glam dolls and hunks around. The protagonist’s experience in a call centre was okay! But i would not be surprised if people and media from UK start doubting over security concerns in outsourcing businesses in India, given the fraud and Satyam sagas going around. I mean how could an office boy use office systems and telephones without authority (as shown in the movie), you never know, this could be an interesting issue with the unemployed western lot. Mahesh Manjrekar, another son of a gun, i love to see him onscreen, but typecasted again. I want him to be versatile in the future and showcase the immense talent that he has. The kid is getting closer in the bout, Anil Kapoor revealing all his experience now. The kid showed lot of expression in his stand still shots. A love story with a happy end was framing up. The director could somehow build the excitement for the final question, but it could have been better. Does not matter, by now, the protagonist already gathered enuf sympathy from me, so i wanted him to be happy anyways. The end was romantic. Liked the expression in the boy and girl ending up with that wonderful pretty-perfect incomplete kiss.

Huh!! What a movie! What a story!! Story of rags to riches; Story of a struggle; a love story; a quiz game. All blended into one. Very nice. I had witnessed a quality movie and I needed to celebrate it with another smoke. Every breathe-out thanked out the entire crew. I must add that it was incomplete without the background score from A.R.Rahman. I was stupid to understand his music too late in my life but this work only re-instated the brilliance of his work. It has an Indian feel with an international appeal. Golden Globe is just a beginning, 'am sure about many more on the way.

I quickly sat down to google. The protagonist, Dev Patil, an English actor and bronze Award winner in World Taekwondo Competition. His love interest in the movie, Frieda Pinto, a model. I liked her, nice (you wanna try these, boy!) lips. The man of the moment, Danny Boyle, we Indians would know him as the director of DiCaprio starrer- The Beach. The movie is based upon a novel Q&A, written by Vikas Swarup, a Diplomat. I had actually read about the book couple of years back when he was hogging limelight for the same. I now remember it.
But what an experience it was! The blend of Bollywood and Hollywood certainly produced magic here. The reviews in the west said, after a long time, they could witness a good movie. I’ll echo the same views for sure. There’s one regret though- “Wish I could buy a ticket thereby contributing Rs.150 bucks and add up to the profit margins of such an interesting movie.

Cooking- I need a drive (Archive)

Was going thru variety of blogs when the very thought of food stuck me. I have to cook today...as usual, my cook did not turn up, he's got this saturday night fever these days, you know :) Being a bachelor and end of the month (funds crunch, as usual), i usually cut out all social networks just to be myself and give some time to myself. So, basically i need to cook today...thats the point!!

I enjoy occasional cooking. It is good timepass, a stressbuster as well. I tried my hands couple of times after office whenever Mr.Cook was out partying!! And it has been an amazing experience. Just last monday, for a change, i prepared Channa Masala and it turned out pretty well. My tastebuds gave me some confidence that i actually took it to office next day. They were like- 'Dude, was it you who prepared it'. It gives a lot of confidence you know, not that 'am a great cook.

But again, i need that drive in me, an instinct that pushes me towards the kitchen. I become creative there. It all starts from cutting the onions and the vegetables in the right and uniform shape. Adding masala is another trick. You know, i actually took the best practices from my cook... when this bugger was new, i used to have frequent inspection in the kitchen, what and how is he doing up things? There's a lot of work he did, and i actually learnt couple of things from him. He plays around with seasoning for quite sometime, adding some masala and then stirring it over and over again...which gives a better taste...When i have time, i also try cooking under low flames, it actually turns out well....

Offlate, i have been hearing about cooking food with wine...i want to try that for once. There's no dearth of beverages in my house but all i need is a good recipe, probably a bit of googling around would help. But again, i'm looking for something which has ingredients easily accessible. Hopefully, one day i'll write something once 'am done with it.

Actually i started this off so that i get some kinda trigger and head towards the kitchen. I guess i got one, good enough to make something eatable. Me off to the kitchen...!!

Tribute to Bujons & Gurujons! (For another website)

On every crest and trough of my life, I get a reminder from my inner self to extent my deep gratitude to all the bujons and gurujons. There has been a drastic change from the times of gurujons, then the bujons till it reached me, and it's going to change further down the line. "Yes! You said it right- Change is the only constant". But today at this juncture, I find myself a mix of all of you, the bujons and gurujons, blended within me who completes me as an individual of strength and dignity.

Yes! It was you who taught me to be in my toes. Booraba, it was your unconditional love that established the faith in me that there's no bigger human act than love others. Boorima, It was your lap that I grew up, that I couldn’t forget. It was your meagre pension, Baba, that helped me get the best of the world. It was those hands that toiled in the fields and got my first pair of jeans. Ema, it was your continuous efforts in 'Bengchi' that got my first ring. Kaka, your broker cycle gave me the kicks for mechanics; Pishi, your efforts of shaping yourself up after all the hard work gave me the strength of look after myself even at the worst; Jethu, the sound of your Upaari (hukka) bears testimony of all the contentment you have in life, I wish to lead a life like yours.

Bujons! Gurujons!!

It is the Ishalpa in you that makes me feel richer with my culture. It is the Shongkirton after office that you attended, that explains me the importance of social bonding. It is the 'Ubba mokshir Paltoi' that gives me a sense of feeling, that's its straight from my kitchen; It is the Joidev I sang with you, that actually gave me the platform to test my vocal chords; It is the Krishna Janmasthami when you first showed to get creative with the mud; it is those kolaar paata that reminds me to stay grounded; it is the grand efforts you showed in spite of your limitations that made me witness the 'The big, fat Bishnupriya wedding'. It was the Roth-Jatra you were part of, that established the pride in me when everyone looked us awestruck. It was the Shraddho that you organized, made me respect those who left us. It was the revolutionist in you that taught me to stand up for a cause. It was your continuous effort that helped me stand today as a community, for an identity that I have. It was an unpaid appointment that I made to you, that showed my interest towards medicine. It was the teacher in you that guided me. It was the 'jawan' in you that starts his life all over again post retirement, pushed me to join the forces. It was your unemployment that helped me gear up for, get started and meet any eventuality. It was your 'adda' which inspired me to be aware of the world.

There are apologies that I wanted to convey but never could. My apologies for every time I went against your wish and did everything that I was not supposed to. My apologies for having pitched my voice higher assuming I've grown up. My apologies for spoiling your crop in the process of amusing myself. 'Malthepetto tor sandal haan chorkoranirka khoma chauri'. My apologies for questioning your ability when I know it is the best possible a man could have done. I have criticized you enough for all the communal problems arising today with us, but honestly, I was hiding my non-contribution in the process. I now understand my folly; If I were to have a time-machine, I would have traveled a decade or two back; just to be sure that I would have failed miserably against what you did under those circumstances. "Aaraakou aase, gelga khechuri paalit tor plate haan mi aasul dechilu taana, na souwois! Tor sougo nai!!". And many more, but I would like to cover the rest with my deeds.

I have this uphill task of carrying on the lineage with everything in place and even more. I understand that you're worried about the whole new social structure and value systems that are being defined. But I promise you to take your culture, your practices in my ecosystem; and pass it on with utmost sincerity that is shown by you to me.

I know that you are aware of my impressive words that let you down every time. But not anymore! I know you were upset to see those French wine bottles in my kitchen rack; but I'll impress you with photos of me performing TARPAN. I know you'd be wondering about the Avons of the world lying in my dressing table, but I'll show you the 'Chengi' in the bathroom as well. You'll find designer wears in my wardrobe, but have a look out side, there's a 'fichet' that's getting dry. You may be surprised by the G-String collections that I have, but you would find it overwhelming to see me clad in 'Tolophuti', attending the fests and the ethnic days in my system. I'm having sizzlers out there, but believe me; the 'ubba mokshir paltoi' triggers my taste buds like none and will continue to. I will brainstorm the new project that's up in line but will also actively participate in social causes. I will attend Paris shows but also be an ambassador to my cultural costumes wherever possible. I'll take insurance calls across globes but ensure your safety and security as well. I may enroll myself in a NUS or an ISB, but I'll also emphasize the importance on primary education of Bishnupriya Manipuri. I may poke others in orkut but shall also drive the message of being a bishnupriya among us. Above all, I'll take myself and my generation to the next level that you always wanted to and fulfill your dream.

Let me assure you that I have woken up, I've arrived, we’ve arrived. Aailang Ami! Hoi Dufagi! Kita charai ta!! Cheikta, digolgo oiya aamaar gurujon ebong bujon ore homa aahaan dikta!!
I just hope you understand the 'I' and consider yourself one.

PS- This article was meant for another website.

An Introspection

I am an average person with decent EQ, attitude, geo-politico-socio-cultural awareness (and all such termsJ) and doing so-so in my career blended with motivation. I’ve had pretty decent upbringing and exposure, my parents being rich on their own knowledge base and very active on the social front. They always offered to get me the best of our culture; probably I shied away deep inside. But I’ve got pretty decent amount of resources to expand my horizons overall, to say so. I think I speak my mother language pretty well, understand the rituals and practices, and abide by those. I would expect a call from my mom on every auspicious day- “Baba! Aaji niramish kheis”, “Ee haptaat gore giya dou homa ditangai, ti upeit to dou homadis”. (I stay away from my parents). Now why so much of self promotion? I’m coming there.
You know, this was all part of the root cause analysis that I was talking about. If I had a very normal background so to say, then why don’t I have enough reasons to talk and write about in the community where everybody is trying to contribute? Even I wanted to participate, but why am I not confident about certain things. Why don’t I have the facts and figures in place to discuss things? Why don’t I have sufficient information about the student unions, Mahasabha, their highs and the lows? Why did not I read upon any Bisnupriya Manipuri author, poet; I did have enough time.
Why can’t I appreciate the poem that a certain Mr. Jyotirmoy has scripted? I fairly understood the language, then what was missing in me. Why can’t I write in Bishnupriya Manipuri the way Santosh comments with the proper language? Why can’t I be as proficient as Henryy Da like his Bishnupriya Manipuri equals to his 1st and 2nd language? Why don’t I know about the impact of our student unions, its geographical presence etc? Do I make a sincere effort to spell check the Bishnupriya Manipuri that I speak or write, the way I’m doing while I’m writing this piece? I used to score pretty decently in history during my formative years and most importantly the interest was there. Then why don’t I have sufficient insights in the history of BM, its revolutionary period, the Martyr’s, and so on, the origin of Rajar gaon and Madoigaon apart from the mere difference in language; bits and pieces would be an understatement for me. Why don’t I have so much of conviction to write like Mr.Rishikesh does? For he surely believes in what he has known and many more.
I’m sure this kind of questions would have come up in many among us. I tried to get an answer for many of these. Got few answers, many in ‘ifs and buts’ and a lot in ‘maybe/maynotbe’. I thought I knew my language; the flow of thought was clear, speech clear. But when I read all of these, I still feel I’m missing some things. Although I speak the language like any other person in Silchar would. I got an answer, probably it’s the same difference between Lingo and Language is. But I could have been abreast with Bishnupriya Manipuri literature. Then there were answers like- “I guess I was not inquisitive enough to know”. Others like “No! Maybe I was interested but I had to prioritize on other aspects of my personal developments”. Sometimes like- “I wanted to know but I did not have the ready-made resources in place to know more about it. There’s one answer though which I got instantly- “If I don’t know so many things, then how can I be confident to write and speak in the way I would have liked to!!” All my thoughts revolved around in a vicious circle.
I consider myself a decent Bishnupriya Manipuri; I speak the language, follow rituals whenever and however possible. My idea of contributing my community was limited to be an ambassador, a representative of my community; do good in what I’m doing and getting recognized as a Bishnupriya Manipuri who did well in his domain. With every recognition comes my identity and then I would be probably introducing myself as a proud Bishnupriya. But the big question is, is that enough?? I’ll keep doing the things that I have been doing. My next generation would clearly be devoid of the misses I had; on top of it, there is this huge task of knowledge transfer which is never 100%. They would, at some point of time, even after I inject the right genes and strength to survive, would have many of these basic questions. To talk of the worst, my family would be loosing out on my cultural heritage generation after generation. And I have no choice but to be accountable for the blunder that I’ve done and still continuing.
Cultural heritage won’t remain the same, it is bound to change. But here’s the catch; the difference between good and bad is the same as expansion and extinction of a culture. Variety of inter-related circumstances acts as catalysts- like a change in economics leading to change in social structure and then hit the cultural part. But we preserve our cultural base, restore it and then pass it on to the next. How do we do that? This is the question that looms around the human race. Many in the world thought about it, gone thru successfully by and large and few who failed as well.
But I’m sure it was possible for them because they all had a collective vision. I’m sure they had this undying hunger in them to be identified and counted among the rest as a community notwithstanding their individual aspirations and success. I’m sure they must have had collectively chosen the right leader among themselves to represent, manage and stand for the cause (Henryy Da’s point on Choosing the right leaders, very true). I’m sure they would have established accountability along with their planning. I believe they would have taken lessons from the past but not included them into the discussion table for further criticism. And most importantly, they could not have done it without the efforts of the people at large. A leader is as good as his men, they say!
I sincerely feel any step intended for socio-cultural awareness makes a difference. I would like to thank all the Bishnupriya Manipuri netizens for having thought of this and going on so well. I would like to applaud for Rishikesh (bear with me, Sir! Am late for the showJ) for having initiated this forum. As I said in a comment, we now need to look ahead. I’m sure we’ll touch upon many of the things mentioned earlier on this passage as we go ahead in the year on a positive note. Also, making it reach out to as many as possible. Let’s be on a platform so that we all can echo the voices and have the sentiments flowing within us!

“Giri-Githaani- Bhul truti thaila khoma kore dibaang”. This footer note is a sorry statement of the same inconfident guy! :)

PS- This article was meant for another site.