dilchahtahai

Yehi hai Right Choice Dhoni (Pepsi)!!!

2011-07-31T23:33:00.000-04:00

Huge drama at Trent Bridge on 3rd day of 2nd test match between India and England took place on last ball before tea. This drama and decision though will be remembered for ever in the history of cricket. Everyone in World is going to remember, what Dhoni did on 31st of July.

Question is not whether Ian Bell was out or not, because, in some eyes, he will look out, and in some eyes he will not. It was a situation where in movies; you can see a culprit with murder weapon in his hands, blood in his clothes of a victim and victim dead body. For many lawyers it’s a clear cut case where you just give out a verdict saying, “Bell is a murderer”. However no one really knows whether Ian bell actually did committed a murder or not.

Only Ian Bell knows when he took those quick 3 steps towards non-striker’s end, was he really looking for 4th run OR was he actually running towards Morgan to celebrate that they just pass out a session without loosing a wicket.

Ian Bell clears out the confusion and declares that it was an honest mistake or naïve mistake to wait till the ball is dead. If you refer the Law book, he is out. Probably he will understand the outcome; probably he will be angry for a while and forget about it. However, Will Strauss is able to forget it? I doubt. Would English team will be able to forget about it? I doubt. Would British Media will be able to forget about it? I doubt.

The incident could have been repeated in some form or another during the next 2 test matches and any Indian batsman might be the Victim next time. However what Dhoni and team India did and the decision that they took today, is something out of ordinary. Only an Indian Team can take such a brave decision. It’s an Indian Way, It’s our Culture to forget the “Naïve” Mistake of opposition and “Forgive” them. Dhoni’s decision was a Mahatma Gandhi moment in Cricket.

Spirit of the game comes into play when you have some gray area and doubts. This was a doubtful call and in such situation you really have to go with the Spirit of the game, where Right Decision was to ask Ian Bell to come back. It was also a calculative decision. There were few overs left before new ball was due and even if you remove bell, Prior would have came and destroyed Indian spinners much the same way, Bell and Morgan did. Probably Prior would have got even more runs (consider he was going more than run a ball, after new ball is taken). India would not have achieved anything by taking bell out of equation. Considering the situation, Logically, Spiritually, Theoretically, It was a right decision to call Bell back. All I can say to Dhoni is : Yehi hai Right Choice Baby !!!! aha.

Delhi Belly: Exposes Hypocritical Morality of a Bollywood

2011-07-08T11:08:00.000-04:00

It’s a movie for folks between the age of 15 to 50. It’s not a “Typical” Bollywood Movie. 80% of the dialogues are in English and rest 20% are in Hinglish. It’s a movie for the youth, on the youth, to the Youth.

Movie is all about how to tell the most dramatic scenes in a most realistic way. There are certain dialogues and scenes which happens pretty much everyday in our real life. There are some of the typical dialogues that we use in our real life. Movie is path-breaking in a way because, even though we see reality everyday, we are too afraid to see it in a big screen or film-makers were too afraid to show it in the big screen. In Today’s culture, “Fuck” is probably the most common word to use and have been used very frequently in the movie.

When three friends of the same age are in a conversation we use slangs such as, “Ch**t”; “BenC**d“, “G**du”, “La*du”, a**hole and they have been used very conveniently.

When did we see 5 second scene of Water flowing from tap while bucket being away, a guy pressing boobs of a sl*t, a guy sucking p**sy of a girl friend (and taking a phone), inflamed eye make-up, two girls talking about being Lesbian, a friend introducing another friend as serial rapist etc etc.

There are some of the scenes we might have encounter in Hollywood movies pretty frequently, like Fake Sex Scene with Orgasm to fool others, torturing another gangster by putting a fire cracker in an a**hole, getting shit when you are expecting diamonds, half naked guy sleeping with his bump and a**hole visible etc etc.

Whoever has lived with group of friends, its pretty common not to a certain task, when its not their turn to do it, but seeing the same reality in a big screen, will not only send you for a while to past but make even your heart laugh.

If you feel, your job sucks big time, spare a thought for Arup’s job; to make a picture of “HAPPY BANANA” with an accuracy of 8%, pretty freaking amazing.

Highlight of the movie though is “VIJAY RAAZ”. Every scene that is being filmed on him is amazing. His scenes with Vladimir in the hotel and with the trio in their apartment are to die for. He is truly the greatest actor came out in recent time and perhaps in the same league of Nassiruddin Shah and Om Puri. “B***C****, tum log kya meri barat mein aaye ho” will be remembered for ever.

Songs are working beautifully according to the situation in background. Cinematography is awesome, Screenplay was written very well. There is nothing great in Story but film making is not about Story, it is about how to tell a Story and that has been done pretty well.

It exposes hypocritical morality of a Bollywood in a beautiful way. Excellence can be excelled and perfection can be improved.

Labor

2011-07-04T01:26:00.000-04:00

There are many differences in life-style between USA and India; One of them being “Labor” work.

As a kid, I remember when we shifted to a new home; we wanted to build Furniture suited for our new apartment. We went for shopping and just 2 streets down found a furniture shop. Spoke long and hard with owner “Mani Ram” which involved not only the price fix for the furniture that we wanted but also what kind of furniture.

Talks between Maniram and father involved stories from Past, Present and Future. Negotiation was also the key part of that conversation. Price was fixed, Wood was choosen, color was selected, days were decided and everything was finalized.

Maniram and his workers spend about 3 days to build and set-up entire furniture. Those 3 days involved lots of talks. We lived in that place for more than 20 years, plenty of time, furniture or small things related to furniture required help of “Maniram”. Maniram and his resources were more than welcome to help (with some labor charges of course). Those 3 days spend though; build a relationship of a life time and names to remember for ever.

Today, I went to Wal-Mart, to get a piece of furniture to put my books on. A book-shelf was given to me with 6 pieces of cheap wood and few screws and one piece of paper. I hardly remember the name of Company which builds this item. I can hardly say “build” because, they don’t build anything, and they just sell woods. I hardly remember the name of person who was at the counter of “Wal-Mart”. It’s not just the human interaction which is out of fashion or equation, but its also a slap on the very concept of “Community Living”.

Whenever a community is being built, it involves various kinds of skills. Someone is good in cutting hairs or electronics or fashion or medicine or building roads or building furniture etc etc. By selling cheap piece of woods, you are promoting an idea, that particular skill is so easy that you can learn it by reading one piece of paper. Why would you bother hiring a furniture guy or calling a labor who can fix small furniture/electronics problem at your home? Learn it on your own, Fix it on your own, Be your own destiny, Be Free, Be Independent, Be Good in everything (at least all small things) and the end-feel “superiority”. Problem is synonym of the word, “superiority” is “Arrogance”.

When you no longer require help from someone to fix your furniture, you just killed job(s) of hundreds of thousands of “Labor” Work. Its not just one simple job that you got rid of, then comes few more. Why should I go and cut my hair somewhere, I can do it myself. Why should I go and pay for Oil Change, I can do it myself and so on. Think twice before you start doing job of others, because soon, someone will start doing yours too.

Create Jobs not Destroy them!!!

Dhoni – Unknown Opener

2011-06-16T11:47:00.000-04:00

It took India more than a decade to find a replacement pair to open the inning in one-day format. Sunil Gavaskar and Kris. Srikanth were regular opening batsman in late 80’s but India tried more than 20 different combinations before settling down with Sachin Tendulkar and Saurav Ganguly.

Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag (and at times when either of them is not available, Gautam Gambhir) are opening combination that India uses regularly in One-Day format. However when all three of them are not available things becomes very dicey.

Murli Vijay was tried and tested and failed miserably. Last series against West Indies, Shikhar Dhawan and Parthiv Patel was given a go ahead and they were not even so great either.

Sachin Tendulkar has probably maximum of year cricket left in him and Sehwag and Gambhir are injury prone. India is in anxious need of a good opening batsman to support an era of dominance.

India has lot of good middle order batsman for example: Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina, Yuvraj Singh, Rohit Sharma. Even the next pool of batsman waiting in the wings are middle order batsman: S.Badrinath, Manoj Tiwari, Ambati Rayudu, Venugopal Rao etc.

All above Middle Order Batsman are suited perfectly for Middle Order Batsman Only, perhaps apart from Rohit Sharma. If India has to force an issue and make someone as “MAKE-SHIFT” Opener, then best bet would be M.S.Dhoni.

M.S.Dhoni if tried as an Opening Batsman in One-day format can be very lethal and successful option. After being Captain of the team, and coming in the middle order to finish the game, he has lost the touch of aggressive batting. He at times has to play careful inning in order to win a game. He is very successful in changing his style of play to knock around the ball and take singles.

His First one day century came against Pakistan when Saurav Ganguly send him as Pinch Hitter at number 3 position. He was deadly & destructive against PACE bowling, something in the line of Sehwag. He has ability to hit the ball in air to cover the infield. He has good enough technique to survive good balls. He is very quick in running between the wickets. He has the entire required ingredient to be a successful opening batsman in One Day Format, if tried.

It will benefit Dhoni personally as well, as he will be able to play more freely with bunch of talented batsman to follow him. It will help him to score more runs at the top of the inning. He can be India’s right handed reply to Australia’s Adam Gilchrist.

Greatest Opening batsman of all time, Sachin Tendulkar was also “MAKE-SHIFT” Opener from Middle Order. Who knows this move to send Dhoni at the top may turn out to be Blessing in Disguise!!!

GREATEST GAME EVER...REALLY?

2011-03-31T01:35:00.000-04:00

Many are describing the affair between India and Pakistan at Mohali was the greatest game ever. It did generate the greatest amount of pre-match fever in the era of Facebook and Twitter. There was lot of hype created before the game. It surely got its political importance and plenty of stars were witnessing the saga.

However, in terms of Quality of Cricket it was far from being called the greatest game ever. Australia vs South Africa 1999 World Cup Semi Final still remains as one of the best one day game ever played in terms of ups and down and quality of cricket.

Even for the game being played at Mohali this was far away from Australia vs West Indies Semi Final in 1996 World Cup. Australia to loose top 4 wickets in first 10 overs and then Bevan and S.Law making a come back for Australia, West Indies on top in chase and then Warne/McGrath pull things back for Australia in last 10 overs.

In terms of Indian Victory; 1983 Final still remain the best ever game or best cherished memories.

Perhaps, it is being called greatest ever because it was India vs Pakistan game. But India did played Pakistan on four other occasions and 2003, 1999, 1992 and 1996 games remain as better quality games played between India and Pakistan. Perhaps, It was a knock-out game where India played Pakistan and pressure could make this as dreamy event. But then India did play against Pakistan in 1996 Quarter Final which was knockout game.

I don’t see any reason for the game of 30th March to be awarded a status of “Greatest Game Ever”. In terms of performance of the team; Pakistan played some awful cricket.

1) Giving Away 6 chances to Tendulkar and most catches dropped were very simple catches.

2) 205 for 6 and Raina left with tailenders and Pakistan unable to finish the game or at least get India out fewer than 250 to give physiological advantage.

3) During the batting, Pakistani batsman threw away their wicket. Kamran Akmal giving easy catch to Yuvraj. Younis Khan giving easy catch to Raina.

4) Younis Khan’s 33 balls 12 runs & Misbah’s first 12 runs in 34 balls. That’s 25 runs in 11 overs while chasing 260 runs.

5) Even after 6 wickets down and Captain and Wise Captain at the crease and not taking Power Play Option.

If I would be Pakistan Cricket Team supporter I have every reason to be disappointed. There were plenty of chances given by Indians to take victory but Pakistanis were just not willing to grab it.

It was however very discipline performance by Pakistan Cricket team in terms of behavior. They were smiling, enjoying the event and perhaps enjoying the Hospitality.

MMS & MEDIA

2011-03-30T23:35:00.000-04:00

Not so long ago, MMS (Man Mohan Singh) & Media declared “NO TALK TILL YOU WALK THE TALK” motion against Pakistan after 26/11 attack. 26/11 attack at Mumbai was not just one of those forget it kind of attack on the soil of India.

There has been lot of attacks and act of proxy war from Pakistan against India including 26/11. However for a moment though it appears as India is a bit serious on the matter of 26/11. There was lot of usual outrage on the streets of Mumbai and across India after 26/11. No Cricket Players were allowed to play in IPL directly or indirectly after 26/11. No direct relationship or talks were happening after 26/11 at Political Level. There was no “CRICKETING ACTION” between these two great nations after 26/11.

However, when it was decided by the outcome of couple of Quarter Finals, that India will play Pakistan in Semi-Final; there was a bit of shameful politics which got played to forget the carnage of 26/11. Cricket and Passion of Cricket indeed binds two variables called India and Pakistan but wasn’t it the ACT of SHAMENESS to call Prime Minister of Pakistan to witness the game and forget what happened in last 3 years as after effects of 26/11.

What is the message that MMS & Media is sending to Pakistan Officials? Aren’t we back to infamous “SAB CHALTA HAI” attitude?

Game between India and Pakistan should have been played with an environment away from Political Affairs. Yes, we should have welcome Pakistani Cricket team with same enthusiasm. Yes, we should have welcome Pakistani Cricket Fans with the same zeal, but sending a formal invitation to Pakistani Prime Minister was a bit like calling them for the funeral of pride.

For a day or two, Media was showing all programs and welcoming Pakistani brothers like there was nothing called 26/11 happened. It was all in the interest of TRP, a bit shameful hypocrisy I must say. Life in India is so cheap and government and especially congress government has never cared about People of India but it’s a disgrace that Media also forget 26/11 under the carpet of TRP is bit gloomy.

Medical Exam

2011-03-28T11:26:00.000-04:00

When India plays Pakistan, the event becomes a Mega Event. When India plays Pakistan in a World Cup; it becomes a major mega event. When India plays Pakistan in a World Cup Semi Final; it becomes Mother of Major Mega Event. Perhaps only thing which can be superior to this contest is both teams meeting at a World Cup Final.

There has been lot said about how England and Australia are different in terms of “Cricket” that they display. Even though at cultural level India and Pakistan may have lot of similarity but there are significant differences between the thought processes of both teams. Both teams have different ways of handling the pressure and playing game in general.
With Pakistan Cricket team, you can associate terms such as confident, Talent, Aggressive and Natural brilliance. Indian Cricket team is more devotional, proficient, divine and with (Artificial) Intelligence. Both have one thing in common though: Passion.

From the outside perspective, it may look like India has better batting and Pakistan has better bowling line up. Its always the case that India gets associated with batting while Pakistan gets associated with Bowling. However in the World cup though, history shows that India has bowled much better against Pakistan.

1992 World Cup: First encounter between India and Pakistan at World Cup Stage and India scored only 216 runs but bowled Pakistan out for 173 runs. 1996 Quarter Final: Even though Ajay Jadeja’s 25 balls 45 runs may come quickly in mind; It was Prasad’s getting Aamir Sohail out turn the game to India’s favor. India did not bowled Pakistan out but did manage to take 9 wickets. 1999 World Cup: India scored only 227 runs but V.Prasad took 5 wickets and Pakistan was bundled out for 180 runs.

2003 World Cup was the only exceptional one where India did not perform good with bowlers. India still manages to chase the target but bowlers did not perform as good as they might like. There is a reason though. Pakistan batted first time in First inning against India. In high pressure game such as this; the team who is batting first has advantage. When you are setting a target, you look at the situation more rather than scoreboard. Its how many runs needed against however many you can get.

If India is batting first and scores well over an excess of 300; that’s confirming victory against bowling line up which is as good as you can get. If Pakistan is batting first though, 280 might be enough.

From the team composition perspective; India should not take two off spinners (Ashwin and Harbhajan) against Pakistan who does not have a single lefty batsman. I also think, Nehra might be more useful instead of Munaf because the ball will go away from right hand batsman more often or not. It will be interesting to see what would be Indian Management’s thinking. If they are willing to open the bowling with Ashwin and use the second medium pacer in the middle overs, then Nehra might not be that useful. India did have a Plan B for Munaf. Munaf went for plenty of runs in first over against Australia but soon after that there was a drinks break. Pretty sure, Kirsten suggested plan B for Munaf and Dhoni stand up near stumps and asked Munaf to bowl on the stump line to restrict batsman from scoring. If India wants to pursue same plan then Munaf is a better bowler in middle overs. However if India is not comfortable with Ashwin against Kamran Akmal and Mohd. Hafeez who are much better players of spin bowling then Nehra should be in the side.

From Pakistan’s perspective; they should promote Afridi at number 3 if Ashwin is bowling. Afridi is not being productive later half of the inning and his quick fire 30 could really help them. I prefer Afridi over Razaaq because, Razzaq in the lower orders can keep his cool and still get some runs unlike Afridi who is more likely to throw away his wicket.

Afridi’s middle overs are going to be the turning point of the game. If Afridi comes on when Tendulkar or Gambhir still at crease, they will milk him for runs. If Afridi go for over 50 runs with less than 2 wickets, that’s big plus for India. Afridi’s 10 overs are going to be very crucial.

It’s interesting to see if Dhoni and Afridi are willing to take a risk of having Sreesanth and Shoaib Akhtar in the side. Contest between India and Pakistan has tremendous amount of pressure and not sure if adding this high maintenance nuisance will help them or destroy them. Both of them very talented bowlers but can go for plenty of runs and once they don’t take wicket in a over or two, they both can be wayward and add negative influence to the team.

Asad Safiq’s inclusion has strengthen Pakistan’s middle order; however I don’t think he should be send at number 3 position. I think Pakistan should send Afridi at number 3 and Younis Khan at 4 and then Asad Safiq at number 5. Both Misbah and Umar Akmal are capable to increase the run rate if they come in last 20 overs. Asad Safiq at number 3 is dangerous. One in swinging ball from Zaheer he can get out as LBW and then lot will depend upon Younis/Misbah partnership to bail them out. 3 wickets under 100 runs means 280 might just become out of reach for Pakistan and so is victory.

India’s victory yet again depends upon GOD. Rest assured he will be better prepared against Pakistan. He has more motivation now after Afridi’s trash talk to score that century which he swear, he won’t allow. If Tendulkar scores 100 then India scores over 300 and that might be just more than enough for Victory. Good thing from India’s perspective though is now a days, India’s batting does not depend a lot upon Tendulkar alone. Sehwag is capable of destroying any attack. Gambhir is best player against spin bowling. Yuvraj is the in-form batsman and bowler from India’s side.

Pressure is tremendous for both side to perform before the game. This is one of those game where pressure is not going to go down even during the game. Add to that both team’s prime minister are also attending the game. From player’s perspective they need to be FIT to perform during the game physically as well as mentally. More than players, spectators also need to get their Medical Exams done and check their heart status before the game. This is not the game for weaken souls.

Middle Overs

2011-03-27T01:33:00.002-04:00

New Zealand does not have thrill of Gayle or flamboyance of Ponting or speedster like Brett Lee or Kemar Roach or all-rounder of the decade like Kallis or match winning leg spinner like Imran Tahir or master tactician captain like A.Strauss or World’s best spinner like Swann. Yet New Zealand is the team which qualified in Semi-Final of 2011 World Cup because they play like team.

One of the best assets of NZ is that they are the most amazing fielding side to watch. They give their 400% in the fielding. If they score 220 runs, rest assured its like 260 runs because; they are going to save 40 runs in their fielding. They make brilliant shot turn into simple catches. Run-outs is their best wicket taking bowler. NZ is also the only team who has not won the World Cup which makes them “UNDERDOGS”.

Sri Lanka when the tournament started had the strongest looking squad on paper. They have brilliant spinners, Malinga’s in swinging Yorkers which makes him the most reliable bowler in death overs. They have genuine all rounder like Mathews. They have the best in form batsman in the World (Sangakkara). They have reliable middle order of Jayawardene and Samaraweera. They have opening partnership which can destroy any attack in the form of Tharanga and Dilshan (both scored 100 against England in QF). They literally look team which is invincible.
What could NZ do to overcome something which looks like the most unachievable task in hand? Beating Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka who is in form and in Semi-Final is as tough as climbing Mount Everest but there are people who have climbed that mountain haven't they?

So it’s Doable. NZ do have 2 smart people in the form of John Wright and Alan Donald in coaching staff who can prepare them mentally and strategically to do what is possible. Question is: What is going to be that strategy and Can NZ execute it?

First of all: NZ has to remember that they have “ADVANTAGE” in the middle overs when they bowl.

1) Vettori/Oram/N.McCullum are brilliant in between 15 to 35 overs. They give away very less amount of runs and they take wickets as well. Those 20 overs shouldn’t give more than 80 runs against Sri Lanka and get 2 wickets.

2) Sri Lanka like S.Africa has the long tail. Murli/Herath/Mendis and Malinga cant bat. Expose them

3) Sri Lanka has slightly “in-experienced” lower middle order. Once Sri Lanka loose third wicket, focus should be to get the fourth settled batsman out. Once top 4 of Sri Lanka leaves; pressure will be tremendous on lower middle order with long tail and expectation of 20,000 people at ground. Key is to take first 4 batsmen out.

4) When NZ bat; bat in partnership. 30 runs partnership in between every wicket will see them through. NZ bat much lower down the order. Loosing the wicket is fine as long as they put forward partnership. 30/1; 60/2; 90/3;120/4;150/5;180/6;210/7;240/8;270/9.

5) Field Placement is very important. Catches win matches and run-out is your best wicket taking bowler NZ.

NZ has every chance to pull up the upset if they do every little thing perfectly. Sri Lanka on the other hand has to make sure they play up to their potential. Sri Lanka has to believe that NZ can defeat them because over confidence can take down any side. Sri Lanka has to remember that they have defects in their side. Sri Lanka has to hide their negative points and make sure their positives (top 4 batsman) get the job done.

Sri Lanka lost only one game in the tournament against Pakistan and in that game Malinga did not played. Murlidharan’s 10 overs are still crucial weapon for them to give them those wickets in the middle overs. If Murli is not going to be fit, that could be very big blow for Sri Lanka.

Logically speaking Sri Lanka should prevail in this game but in Cricket funny things do happen. Hard Work can give victory to the sides who probably wont be able to make it. NZ are under achieving team so far but perhaps, 29th March could be one of their day to re-write the History book.

Winner is the TOSS of a COIN

2011-03-23T21:39:00.000-04:00

Perhaps this is going to be the Match of the Tournament. There is a enormous amount of expectation from both sides. It is a war like atmosphere at Ahmadabad between two gigantic giants. Every war has series of mini-battles. In order to win the war, you have to win maximum of those battles OR win the key battle which can turn the game on your side.
There are number of great players in both sides for whom this may turn out to be the last match of their career. Two big ones are Ricky Ponting and Sachin Tendulkar. Couple of years back, Ricky Ponting was breathing on the neck of Sachin Tendulkar, at least in Test Matches. However last 2 years we had seen one giant’s graphical display going down while the other one is breaking all records known to human kind.

World Cup however is a different ball game specially knockout games. If the comparison is made between Ponting and Tendulkar in terms of World Cup Knockout games, Ponting comes out as a winner. Champion Tendulkar is desparate to put a side the last two games he played against Australia in World Cup and revenge is definitely on to prove that he is better than Ponting in every aspect of the game, be there be a World Cup game or not.

Ponting vs Tendulkar is a majot battle that could seriously put the momentum in either side. If Tendulkar edges to Brett Lee in first 5 overs and get out, that’s a going to be a game changing moment. Amount of confidence that Australians can get out of that wicket is as good as winning a Country in a war. Ponting’s wicket may not be as crucial in terms of game because he is so much out of form and team revolves much around Watson and Hussey to perform with the bat but the ROAR that it can get from the stadium once the captain of the ship gets out could be very motivating factor.

India’s best chance of winning the World Cup game is the amount of wickets they keep in their hand till 35th over. If India is batting first, they might cut down 50 overs game into 5 pieces and achieve smaller targets.

10 overs 50 runs for 0 wickets OR 10 overs 60 runs for 1 wicket OR 10 overs 70 runs for 2 Wickets are good scores for India.
20 overs 100 runs for 1 wicket OR 20 Overs 120 runs for 2/3 wickets are good score for India.
30 Overs 150 runs for 2 wickets OR 30 Overs 160 runs for 3/4 wickets are good score for India.
40 Overs 220 runs for 4 wickets OR 40 Overs 230 runs for 5 wickets are good score for India.

Crucial phase of game for India will be the last 10 overs. How well India is performing in last 10 overs either bowling or batting is going to decide the game. 10 overs 80 runs scoring while they bat could be match winning but 10 overs 80 runs give away could be loosing momentum.

India’s chances of victory decrease if they are chasing a target of 300. India is always known for batting first and setting the target. It helps India because then in 2nd inning, its 11 vs 2 phenomenon which comes into play. Batting first phenomenon also helps in case there is a chain of wickets fell down in first 10 or 20 overs. For recovery purpose it helps if you are setting the target instead of chasing. Even if you are chasing a small target, pressure of getting runs in 2nd inning is much larger.

There isn’t going to be much to offer from Ahmadabad Pitch. Its going to have no grass, It might not crack for 100 over game, specially no game has played in last couple of weeks. It’s probably not going to offer any wind or breeze help either for bowlers. Its going to sunny and hot weather in Ahmadabad and hence it will be perfect condition to bat first if you win the Toss.

If the game is starting as 50-50 chance for both teams, Toss is so crucial that whoever wins the toss, straightaway that team has at least increased their chance of winning the game by 10%.

If India win the toss and India has not lost a wicket in first10 overs then India increased their chances by another 10%. So, Game could be 70% in India’s hand and all they have to do is not to mess it up in last 10 overs like they did against S.Africa by loosing 9 wickets for 29 runs. If India put up the total in access of 300 batting first, India’s chance of winning the game is at least 85%.

If Australia is chasing a target of fewer than 250; they should be able to do it comfortably. Australia like India is also playing with 7 batsman and unlike India they have better and reliable tail Enders. Mitchel Johnson, Jason Kretza and Brett Lee all can bat a bit. In terms of batting; Australia rely heavily on Shane Watson. If Zaheer can get Watson out in first 10 overs (and Australia is chasing over 250 runs); that’s a major drift towards India. Best way to get Watson out is LBW. Get 4 balls going away from him and bring one back into his pads and hope that he tries to whack it over mid-wicket and misses it. The Moment Ponting comes in, play a mind game and get Harbhajan on. Best way to get likes of Ponting and Tendulkar out is early. Once they get 20 odd runs in their pocket, they are hard to remove.

Yuvraj singh is India’s second best bowler after Zaheer Khan. He is not only just any 5th bowler for India , but the bowler who can get wickets for India. He has improved drastically in bowling and is a major wicket taking threat. Specially, White/Clarke/Smith might not be comfortable against Yuvraj.

It will be highly unlikely that even if Australia bats first, they will get out under 250 runs. Pakistan did bowled them out under 200 but Pakistan has better bowlers compare to India. If Australia is batting first and they are putting over 250 runs, with the bowling line up of Lee, Tait, Johnson, Watson, Kretza its going to be as good as climbing mountain.

Tait can be a match winner but if he continue to ball down the leg side, Tendulkar/Sehwag/Gambhir is going to milk him for runs. Lee can be destructive but hittable. Johnson according to me is going to be a wicket taking option from Australia.

My Prediction depends a lot upon who is going to bat first. If India is batting first, my pick for the game is India. If Australia is batting first they are my pick. So My Pick is the coin of the Toss, Its almost whoever wins it, wins the game.

Tendulkar Timing

2011-03-22T16:21:00.003-04:00

The moment the name “Tendulkar” pops up; inning of a century at Sharjah images just comes along side. Best player of 1996 World Cup and highest scorer as well was undone by a silly mistake in semi-final. India and world needed that glimpse of a champion to come back and show the World he is a “Winner”. Sharjah back to back knocks were not only special, but extra ordinary because it is a classical example of One man Army taking on mighty Australians.
World was witnessing Tendulkar’s transformation into a winner after that Sharjah knocks but destiny had another option.

Stage was set for that remarkable come back in 1999 World Cup Super Six game against Australia. Both teams needed a win to remain in World Cup. Australia batted first and scored 282 runs. Expectation from Tendulkar to give something special was enormous. He edged and failed.
Stage was again set after four years in 2003 World Cup final. Tendulkar edged and failed again.

Stage was again set to what known as perhaps Tendulkar’s last world cup in 2007. Sri Lanka scored 254 runs and India had to chase and was again expecting Tendulkar to give them a hope and victory. Hope was denied and Tendulkar got out without troubling the scorers.

Everyone wrote Tendulkar out. Inzamam Ul Haq and Brian Lara retired after 2007 World Cup and perhaps critics were expecting Tendulkar to hang his pads in One Day Format. Tendulkar though had a burning desire to win a World Cup.

He geared up for the challenge. He showed in 2008 Commonwealth Bank Series. He scored back to back centuries against Australia in Australia and won the cup for India. He scored 200 runs against South Africa (in India though).

Stage is “again” set for one more remarkable come back from the greatest of great. Will he deliver this time the magic 100th century in a game against three time World Champions Australia and knock them out of the World Cup. Timing of Tendulkar innings are spectacular as always and now time is there for “Tendulkar Timing” to turn things in a Winning way.

Pakistan can cause an Upset

2011-03-22T12:04:00.000-04:00

Every time Pakistan plays there is a guaranteed statement which comes out; “Only Pakistan can beat Pakistan”. Its actually quiet true because if Pakistan plays with their given potential and talent, there is no team in the World which can beat them. They showed that against Australia and proved that many times. However, they never play according to the book; they are never boring either.

One of the positive that came out from the group stage from Pakistan’s perspective is Asad Shafiq. Pakistan wanted a strong middle order batsman to give back bone to Younis Khan and Misbah Ul Haq. Their middle order was looking vulnerable as one wicket of either Younis or Misbah could open up the tail.

Game against West Indies in Quarter Final at Mirpur, lot will rely on how Pakistan middle order performs. Both West Indies and Pakistan rely heavily on their bowlers to perform. This quarter final will not see more than 500 runs in a day but there is a good chance, we might see close to 20 wickets fall down in a day. Roach and Benn (west indies is more likely to open bowling with Benn) have given them early wickets. Neither Kamran Akmal nor Mohd.Hafeez looks solid at the crease which means Pakistan middle order will be in within first 15 overs. From 15th Over to 40th Over; Pakistan’s middle order has to play cautiously to win the game for them.

If West Indies can take wickets in the middle order and expose likes of Afridi and Razzaq before 35th over; match will be drift towards West Indies.

On the other side, Pakistan also has bowling line up which can defend target of 200. Umar Gul and Wahab Riaz are attacking bowlers but their spinners and specially Afridi (who is the highest wicket taker in the tournament so far) are their best chance to go through any line up.

West Indies’s best chance to perform better relies on how well, Gayle and Smith performs. If they can actually stay there for first 10 overs or so, rest all pieces of puzzle will fall perfectly for them. Bravo and Sarwan are capable to handle pressure and dig them out but not if they start their inning in first 10 overs. It would be too much to ask from only 2 middle order batsman to play for than 30 overs and West Indies opening partnership is critical.

Neither of the side was picked as one of the favorite to win this tournament (India, S.Africa, Australia and Sri Lanka were favorite to reach to Semi Final). Both this sides are fancy to call themselves as “Underdogs”. They thrive on their ability to cause an upset. Both this team has unique “FLAIR” to offer. Both sides has monster hitters with likes of Gayle, Pollard, Afridi and Razzaq. Both sides are not naturally good fielding side. Both the sides are naturally “Attacking” Side. Both this side however crumbed under pressure, so, the game will be decided between West Indies Opening Pair vs Pakistan’s Middle Order Batsman because rest assured both team’s bowling line up will perform at their best. Gayle/Smith vs Younis/Misbah, the combination which can hold their nerver, will be presented with the Victory.

Pakistan normally are confident side when they enter the ground. We need to see whether victory over Australia gives them more confidence or over confidence.

My Prediction says: Pakistan will cause an upset; by playing rash and give away victory to West Indies.

Pakistan Probable Playing XI:
Kamran Akmal, Mohd.Hafeez, Asad Safiz, Younis Khan, Misbah Ul Haq, Umar Akmal, Shahid Afridi, Abdul Razzaq, Saeed Ajmal, Umar Gul and Wahab Riaz.
(Too many left handed batsman in west indies and hence Saeed Ajmal in place of Abdul Rehman)
(Shoaib Akhtar is probably not fit and lefty Wahab Riaz gives variety in bowling attack).

West Indies Probably Playing XI:
C.Gayle, D.Smith, D.Bravo, R.Sarwan, K.Pollard, Sammy, Brown, Benn, Bishoo, A.Russel, Roach.

Probable Turning Points of the game:
1)Bishoo and Russel taking wickets in the middle overs
2)Gayle/Smith's opening partnership.

Selection Decision

2011-03-20T17:47:00.000-04:00

When it comes to selection of choosing the correct XI, you have to look at the opposition team. Australia has only one left handed batsman in their XI: Michael Hussey. It is highly unlikely that Indians go for three off spinners against them.

So, What do Dhoni/Indians do in terms of selection. Hoping that Sehwag will return to open the inning with Sachin Tendulkar, Top 6 (Sehwag, Sachin, Gambhir, Kohli, Yuvraj and Dhoni) gets selected on the basis of their current form.

In bowling department though, there are lots of question marks other than Zaheer Khan.

Raina can safely put himself in number 12 position and rest assured will be used for at least 15 overs in fielding department to cover Sehwag and/or Sachin.

Pathan, Ashwin, Harbhajan, Nehra, Munaf, Sreesanth and Chawla; Seven Stars and 4 Positions. It is very certain that India will at least go for one fast bowler to support Zaheer.

Lets look at PROS & CONS between three seamers.

Nehra:
PROS: Wicket taking option in the middle overs.

He is pretty effective in the depth overs (compare to Munaf and Sreesanth)

CONS: With Zaheer he will be second left arm seamer which gives less variety.

Can go for Plenty of runs and can be wayward under pressure.

Sreesanth

PROS: Better Fielder compare to Munaf and Nehra.

Better Batsman compare to Munaf and Nehra.

Better Wicket Taking Option in first 10 overs

CONS: Bad Temperament.

Can go for plenty of runs at the start and end overs if put under pressure.

Munaf

PROS: Better Line & Length bowler compare to Sreesanth and Nehra

Better economy rate.

Wicket taking option in the depth overs

CONS: Worst fielder/batsman compare to other two.

Least likely to take wickets in first 10 overs puts ressure on Zaheer

Ahemdabad track will not have lot of grass or bounce which means three fast bowlers is highly unlikely scenario. This means, Dhoni will go for 3 spinners out of 4 available (Pathan, Ashwin, Harbhajan, Chawla).

Pathan is most likely to get in the playing XI. Ahmadabad is close to his home town. He is match winner in terms of his batting. He is better fielder among the other 3 spinners. Dhoni likes playing seven batsman and hence he gets in.

2 Spots and 3 Spinners much like , “Aadmi 2 aur goli 3, bahut na insaafi hai re.”

Problem in going with Ashwin and Harbhajan is that, then India will have 3 off spinners against Australians who has only one left handed batsman. That will certainly make India’s bowling one dimensional, no matter how different all three off spinners are.

Problem in going with Chawla is that he is short of confidence plus after both the off spinners performed so well, Ashwin and Harbhajan in last game, who should be left out?

Can Dhoni take a risk of dropping Pathan and go with three front line spinners and 5 front line batsmans, considering that Yuvraj has also found the lost form in last game by scoring a hundred. My recommendation is to go with five bowlers and make a statement. After all, What do seventh batsman can do that six couldn’t? There can be a calculated risk taken and send Harbhajan as a pinch hitter in between Gambhir and Kohli somewhere around 20th over when Kretza and Watson are bowling to nullify the need for Pathan at the depth overs.

We have to wait and see what is the strategy Indian think tank come up in terms of selection of playing XI before the game.

Playing for India or Indians?

2011-03-13T00:45:00.000-05:00

Dhoni posted a strong post match comment saying some of the players were playing for crowd (indians) rather than team. Actually, it is quiet true, not just for one player but most players within team. There is hardly anything called "TEAM" when team India plays; Its always individuals. Personal glory and milestones matters more than a team victory. Some fans consider, giving Nehra the final over was a ridiculous decision, I bet Had Dhoni thrown a ball to Bhajji and he would have went for 13 runs, same group of people would have criticized and revesed their statement asking; "Why Bhajji"?

It wasnt the final over where India lost the game. India for more than decades have one major problem, They do not have bowlers who can bowl at the death overs. We dont have it, not even Zaheer Khan is good enough consistent bowler to bowl at the death overs. Yes, he was lucky enough to give only 4 in second last over of the match however same Zaheer khan in his 9th over gave away 17 runs to put S.Africa right back into the game. (40th over Zaheer conceded 17 runs after which S.Africa needed 79 runs in last 10 overs with 7 wickets in hand , kind of cake walk).

India knows very well, they do not have bowlers who can defend in last 10 overs. Its very important for India to post over 350 runs target every time they bat first in sub continent pitches. With over 350 runs on board, while chasing, opposition team is more likely to make more mistakes in first 40 overs and hand over Victory to India. IF the team has lost just 3 wickets and 80 runs are required in last 10 overs, India is never going to be able to defend it.

While batting as well; there were lot of mistakes made. First 15 overs when India batted; there was not a single mistake from either Sehwag or Tendulkar. However thats when India had a chance to make a move. India should have took "BATTING POWERPLAY" on 16th over. G.Smith was clueless when India posted 128 runs with no wickets down in first 15 overs. Wouldnt it be great to just push him at the corner, I wonder. Smith was hoping that India do not take the power play and he can bring his spinners and restrict India to under 350. Batting powerplay at that time, could put India well within the reach of 400 runs.

Sachin Tendulkar scored 50 in 33 balls. After 15th over he was 37 balls 57 runs. Till that time, he was playing for Country and he was playing great. Compare 37 balls 57 runs against 92 balls 100 runs. From Strike rate of 154 to 108; thats a lot of change. If this is not playing for your own records, playing for scoring centuries, playing for Crowd, playing for Indians then what it is? Now Quickly lets glance through S.African scoreboard, Did anyone scored a century? Every one contributed to the Team's Victory. Not to forget, Sachin Tendulkar denied India 10 runs through his "defensive", "unfit" running between the wickets. However, Lets forget Tendulkar for a while, because Tendulkar's batting is not the concern for Team India. After all, he still hit a century with more than run a ball strike rate. Its what happens, after Tendulkar gets out in this particular game was horrifying.

Sending Pathan after the fall of Tendulkar's wicket was a bad move. Pathan hits the ball so powerfully and can clear the ground easily, he does not need to play inside the Power Play. In fact had Pathan not there in Power Play, fielder who caught might not even be there and it would have been a easy single for him. Lets give credit to Yuvraj and Dhoni for playing cautiously for couple of overs once they lost Pathan, Gambhir and Tendulkar in power play. Lets not blame Yuvraj too much for going for a shot on the last ball of a Power play, after all he did hit the six in previous over.

What happens after 43rd over, is clear lack of application from Indian lower order. Specially the dismissal of Kohli and Bhajji and Zaheer were just not acceptable. There needs to be a bit of blame need to go to Dhoni as well over there. He was in the middle with them and if he can not motivate them to play for India, then he is failing as a captain and as a premier batsman. He should have been talking with them every ball, and what is the requirement of Team India. From 283 for 5 to 296 all out is lack of determination.

Fitness or Talent

2011-03-01T03:18:00.000-05:00

Tendulkar played a magnificent inning against England. He was focused and frozen while Sehwag was bombarding. He launch into the inning after the departure of Sehwag. He played cautiously, with a big score in mind; perhaps a century and he achieved his target. He is astute reader of media reports and statements prior to the game. He listen Swann to silence the Indian crowd and replied him with an elegant assault and hips of sixes.

India was outplayed in the run-chase by Strauss and Bell. England was cruising for a victory until Dhoni brought in Zaheer Khan as almost last throw of a dice. It’s amazing how 600 ball game gets changed in the span of 3 balls. Zaheer’s first over of third power play converted a soap opera into a top-notch Thriller.

Clearly, If India has to pick two match winners; they are Sachin Tendulkar and Zaheer Khan for their batting and bowling respectively. However they lacked so poorly in the third department called “Fielding” which actually cost India the game and one extra point.

There is no way to prove statistically, “the lack of effort” in the team game. Dhoni’s post-match comment of “We can not improve much on our fielding” was a honest confession of a team lead who is practically aware of the situation. Sachin Tendulkar and Zaheer Khan are perhaps spearhead of India’s batting and bowling department but they are no where close to being the Match-Fit.

You can not prove you are match fit, by scoring a hundred or taking 5 wickets. Match fitness is about being active and remaining actively involved throughout the span of 7 hour game. What was more disturbing was there was a lack of effort for fielding from both. Virat Kohli misfielded and dropped a catch, Harbhajan singh did not put 2 hands to try a catch, Raina took the eyes of the ball and misfielded, Gambhir’s throw was not good enough to reach the crease, are some of the examples which show

India

was poor in their fielding but there was no “Lack of effort” in above examples. In case of Sachin Tendulkar and Zaheer Khan; it was lack of effort. Lack of effort was due to the fact that they are scared that if they try harder in the field, they can pull a muscle or two and perhaps have to sit out from the rest of the tournament.

It’s almost like you are going in a war with 9 soldiers and you have to protect other two throughout 50 overs. They surely have the talent to produce match winning moments but do they have the match fitness? Answer is clearly No, they are not match fit. Next Question is to the selectors of the Indian team; would you select players in the team based on mach fitness OR that’s not a criteria at all. Is Indian team going back to the days of Nabjot Sidhu and Sanjay Manjrekar where, if they played a good knock; they would be sitting in the dressing room and 12^th man will be utilized of their “Lack of Effort”.

Take a leaf out of Australian’s book; Michael Hussey, their best batsman in one day format, is not in the team because he was not match fit. Can India do that for Sachin Tendulkar? Would India have not scored the same amount of total had Sachin not present? Would Sehwag and Gambhir are less threatening pair compare to Sachin and Sehwag? Wasn’t there occasions when India was bating where Sachin denied singles 3 or 4 times as it would stretch his thigh muscle? Wasn’t there a sign after scoring a century that Tendulkar was looking tired (compare the freshness of Strauss after fielding for 50 overs and then scoring a hundred)

Australians dropped out Symonds long time ago, because, he was not creating a good environment in the dressing room. Can

India

do that for Sreesanth?

There are questions with only one possible answer. “Yeh India hai yaar, yahan pe sab chalta hai”. Hopefully we get out of this, “Sab Chalta hai” mentality and start giving preference to what is right rather than what is politically correct.

Zindagi !!!

2011-02-24T01:36:00.000-05:00

कुछ ख्वाब ऐसे देखे हमने, अनजानी सी बन गयी यह ज़िन्दगी !

प्यार,पैसा, शोहरत बन्दे के पास है न है सिर्फ अपनों की बंदगी !!

कभी वक़्त को भुला करते थे हम, अभी वक़्त ने हमें भुला दिया !!!

कुछ पाने की लालच ने , बहुत कुछ हम ने गवा दिया !!!

कभी हसी हमारे दामन में थी, अब रोना भी मुश्किल होने लगा !!!

जस्बात कुछ ऐसे होने लगे है, न दिल है, न यारो की दिल्लगी !!!

कुछ ख्वाब ऐसे देखे हमने, अनजानी सी बन गयी यह ज़िन्दगी !!!!!!!

साए को चुने की हमारी चाह थी , अंधेरो में लिपटी हमारी राह थी

जूनून ने जब दस्तक दी थी , चुपके से सुकून ने रुक्सत ली थी !!!

कभी दुनिया हमारी सुनथी थी, अब कहना मुश्किल होने लगा !!!

हालत कुछ ऐसे होने लगे, ना सांसे है ना है कोई दिलकशी !!!

कुछ ख्वाब ऐसे देखे हमने, अनजानी सी बन गयी यह ज़िन्दगी !!!!!!!

Ajay Devgan

2011-01-31T00:15:00.002-05:00

He is the only actor whose voice I heard first and then saw in the movies/television. It was sometime during 1991 when his first movie, Phool aur Kaante was about to release. I used to listen to Radio lot often during those days. He was introduced as the "STAR" being born before the movie got released.

Early 90's, in Bollywood movies, if the music of the movie is good, it was bound to do good business. Phool aur Kaante's music was awesome by Nadeem Shravan and it was topping the chart and hence the stardom to newcomer, son of Action Master, Mr.Veeru Devgan.

I still wonder why he prefer to change his name from Vishal to Ajay. Vishal Devgan is equally impacting name as Ajay Devgan.

Ajay Devgan has awesome 2010 with wide variety of movies released. I am surprised he has done over 90 movies in last 20 year or so. Thats lot of movies compare to other 3 Khans or Akshay Kumar.

Ajay Devgan do give lot of flops too but he is a "genuine" actor and a person. There are more than 25 movies which are notable from his long list of 90+ movies.

Phool aur Kaante

Dilwale

DilJale

Ishq

Pyar To Hona Hi Tha

Zakhm

Kachhe Dhage

Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam

Company

Gangajal

Khakee

Yuva

Kaal

Golmaal 1, 2, 3

Omkara

Raajneeti

Once upon a time in Mumbai

London Dreams

Sunday

Halla Bol

Masti

Raincoat

LOC Kargil

Top 10 of 2010

2011-01-02T00:49:00.006-05:00

One of my new year resolution is to write more blogs than what I have done in the past. Hindi Movies are lifeless without its music. Over the years, if the music of the film does well, its bound to do well at Box-Office as well. For almost 40 years, Hindi Music's success barrier was Radio Show called, "Binaca (and later, Cibaca) Top 10 Songs" hosted by none other than Amit Sayani.

Later on, during my jawani (and not Sheila ki jawani), it was SuperHit Muqabala on doordarshan which gave the pleasure of top 10 songs. Later on we had MTV and VTV and many other tv channels such as Zoom TV, B4U etc, as full time music channels. So, Let me present what I think are the Top 10 songs of year 2010.

10) Sheila ki Jawani from the movie TEES MAAR KHAN.

Although, I particularly does not like the song, but nevertheless its quiet famous, and it has catchy tune for sure. It would be unfair to leave out this song from Top 10 considering it has quiet a big fan following.

9) Tere Naina Re --My Name is Khan

Although, Noor -e Khuda and Sajda (which also sung by my fav. singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan) were much more famous than Tere Naina Re, but as far as melody is concern, this one makes it to my Top 10.

8) Anjaana Anjaani -- Title Song

Typical Vishal-Shekhar music. They are the modern day, Shankar-Jaikishan/Laxmikanth Pyarelal. They give the music which works for that 3 month period (1 month before the movie release, and 2 month after the movie releases), Their Music has enough catchiness to work. Problem is they give very similar music, be it I hate Love Stories or Break ke Baad or Anjaana Anjaani. Out of those 3, title song of Anjaana Anjaani was much better and ofcourse it was sung by Monali Thakur (who came from Indian Idol, my fav.show).

7) "Gal Mitthi Mitthi" - AISHA

Actually its the choreography of the song which gives this song the feeling of nice to see. It has catchy lyrics (most punjabi lyrics are nice to listen to), and rhythmic tune as well.

There was another song, "Tere Bin" from I hate Love Stories, but I so hate Karan Johar, Dont I? Just Kidding. Tere Bin has better cinematography but choreography wins against cinematography, isnt it?

6) Surili Ankhiyon Wale -- VEER

Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has so many hit songs this year, isnt it? Again the movie wasnt that good, neither the other songs but this one is so pleasant-sounding track.

5) Bheegi Si Bhaagi Si -- Raajneeti

Mohit Chauhan and Antara Mitra (again, Indian Idol fame), sung this song very beautyfully. Not that lyrics and tune is not that good, its good, its catchy but its the singing which is making this song to listen again and again. Entire movie is so intense drama that this song comes in between like a sweet river in a desert.

4) Zor Ka Zhatka -- Action Replayy
I agree the movie is super flop. But the song is the most catchy and one of the best dance number of 2010. The dance step was the most unique and most successful dance step of the year. Besides, Aishwarya Rai rocks and Daler Paaji can still deliver.

3) Munni Badnaam Hui

For many, This would be number 1 song of the year. I dont blame them, for me as well, it was quiet a difficult task not to put this song as number 1. However, I guess I am so much into Rahat Fateh Ali Khan singing and the other two songs which are at respective number 2 and 1 number are more sweet numbers that this one takes 2 steps back. Nevertheless, this one is definately the most played song in the entire year in entire India for sure. Munni fetch audience to the theater and Salman made sure they go happy, thats the story of DABANGG.

2) Dil To Bachha Hai Ji -- ISHQIYA

Music Director Vishal Bhardwaj's forte is actually film making. So, when he gives music, he tries to make it so simple and within the script of the movie that it actually works like a charm. Such is the effect of the song is that, there is a movie coming up with the title "Dil To Bachha Hai Ji" in less than a year after the song is released. Lyrics are just so awesome and my strong recommendation to win the award for Lyrics would be this song. "hum jaisa haaji hi hoga" is simply wow.

1) TERE MAST MAST DO NAIN -- DABANGG

Its a classic. It starts with classical note, and then it catches up and becomes as a typical hindi movie song of 90's and performance of Salman Khan makes this song as not only the best song of the year but perhaps may also qualify in top 10 songs of the decade. Its just to good a song. Simple Lyrics, Nice Tune, Awesome singing and mind-blowing performance by Salman. Rahat Fateh Ali Khan also deserves an Award for the song.

NARIMAN POINT

2010-11-14T16:15:00.004-05:00

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Mumbai’s heart lives at this southern most part. It actually describes Mumbai and Mumbai spirit at its best. For the years, this place has a special place in my heart.

I have tried multiple occasions to describe the feeling of being at Nariman Point/Marine Drive but unable to do so. I have never been so successful in finding words to describe the feeling of being at Nariman Point/Marine Drive.

Perhaps, It is the waves and the sound of sea which makes me calm down. Perhaps it is the bright lights of Mumbai Street which enlightens me. Perhaps it is the life surrounding the place, million people that you see at this place with all kind of different talks. Perhaps it is the skyline of Mumbai which inspires me and motivates me. I still don’t know whats the magic that this place has but whatever it is, it is simply awesome.

Be it the old people from Gujarat who would describe this as “Mumbai Ni Ronak Ajab Che , Ho Bhai” OR It is the people from UP/Bihar describing, “bumbai ki to baat hi nirali hai”. There are young students who would come there with bag packs and tons of tension of school/college/groups to have a group conversation.

Also, there will be plenty of romance at this place. Be it young married couple from outside Mumbai, OR you would find young college couple. You will also find 60 year old Parsi Couple Romance. You will also find young middle age couples (some times people with extra marital affair, trying to hide themselves). You would find, young friends with opposite sex trying to give each other advice, stuff like, “You know my mother still loves you, before this vikrant thing happened, she used to tell me, why don’t you go out with Girish, he is so cool” (Poor girish would be all blushing).

I think, what works for this place, is the curve that it has with bright lights and the steps build around it, so all kind of people can come and have a seat. It is like “Life” sitting their surrounding the “Curve of Life”. Waves of water help you relax also if it is day time, you can see long way out and it gives the feeling that, “Life is long, if you use it wisely”. You turn your head and see big buildings which inspire you to go long way ahead in your career. It motivates you to earn big sum of money. It encourages you to be successful in your life. To Me (and many of my friends), it is one of the 1000 things to do in life, is to have a Office at Nariman Point.

If you are walking across marine drive, you can hear million of conversation from different people. I wish and pray that our bollywood film makers and story writers should visit this place; they will find 1000 good stories, especially film makers such as Karan Johar who are stuck with Raj/Rahul stories.

I have always found that this place whenever I visit, brings amazing amount of revive me energy in me. It breathes new life into me. It makes me go numb. It amazes me. It inspires me. This place makes me blush. This place rejuvenates me.

London Dreams

2009-10-31T01:32:00.002-04:00

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It is not the story about friendship, It is not a Love Story, It is not about bands, It is not about money, It is not about Dream. Story of London Dreams is clash of titans, a trip to egoland, about the most dangerous species known as Humans.

It is a battle between Talent Vs Passion. Movie making is an art, Its not about Story but it is about Story Telling. You can tell a simple story in million ways, and in fact, bollywood is a great example of that. Bollywood has told so many Love Stories to the world in their own unique way. What makes a movie special, is the treatment that is given to it. A Movie is a journey of characters and their circumstances which needs to grow in that two and half hour time frame.

Within 5 or 10 minutes the movie starts, you can get the sense that, you are in for a special ride. It is a ride of human emotions. Human emotions which can make you smile with those cute dialogues at school. Human emotions which can see the happiness of achievement. Human Emotions which lies in the happy life of carefree Mannu. Human Emotions which stays with anger and jealousy of Arjun.

There are many things which stands out in this movie. Cinematography is A+, Story is awesome, Performances are top notch(specially Salman), Music is soothing, Basically, it has almost all ingredient to make a good hit blockbuster movie.

Cricket Fantasy

2009-10-23T21:36:00.001-04:00

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To join the league,
Step 1: Go to Cricinfo Fantasy Cricket
Step 2: Login with your Cricinfo ID (you will need to register if you do not have one)Step 3: Create a team for yourself (this step is optional if you already have one)Step 4: Click on 'Join a League' on the Left Hand NavigationStep 5: On the page which appears, select your team, copy and paste the unique invitation code(LPIN) generated for you as shown belowStep 6: You are now a member of the league - all set to play Cricinfo Fantasy CricketYour
Unique Invitation Code:--------------------------------
93695-0741c6be0d164c87--------------------------------
Looking forward to have you as part of the leagueWarm Regards,Cricinfo Fantasy Team

Tendulkar

2009-10-03T01:25:00.001-04:00

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Tendulkar:

Many things have been said about Tendulkar’s 20 odd years in Cricket. I always felt, Tendulkar is a better One-Day batsman than a Test Match Player.

Let’s see his One Day Statistics.

He never scored a single run in 80’s in One Dayers. Only inning that he played in 80’s , he registered a duck.

In fact first 2 one day innings that he played, he got out without scoring a run.

But Mumbai Media and Marathi people were ruling BCCI during 90’s and hence he kept on getting his chances. Finally he proved few knocks with 30 odds and 50 here and there but never a match winning knock till 1994.

It was 1994 in Colombo against Australia in Singer Cup when he registered his first century and match winning knock. Australia was a strong team at that time with the attack consists of McGrath, Warne and McDermott. However, Key thing was his 100 came when India was batting first. In the Final, though, when India was chasing only 98 runs against Sri Lanka he got out for a duck and Azhar played a match winning knock of 45 runs.

Same Year, 1994, Wills World Series actually established Tendulkar as the Star Cricketer. This was the first series where he got Man of the Series award. He scored a century against New Zealand (again batting first) and couple of fifties.

At Sub-continent pitches, Tendulkar was a run machine and kept scoring almost every game when India was batting first while failing when India was chasing. He scored one more hundred against West Indies, @ Jaipur (again batting first).

In his best of form, India went to New-zealand for a one day tournament but again Tendulkar failed to register even half century there.

Coming back to dry sub continent pitch of Sharjah, and to his best opponent (Sri Lanka), Tendulkar scored his first match winning hundred while chasing a target. (Target was very low 202 for a batting pitch where Prabhakar also scored half century).

In the same Pepsi Asia Cup, chasing only 230 runs against Sri Lanka, Tendulkar scored an average 43, chasing while Azhar again played match winning knock alongside Sidhu. (Sidhu and Azhar both scored 90 odd runs).

1996 World Cup was life changing incident for Tendulkar. Before World cup, he was being compared with likes of Lara, Jayasurya, Mark Waugh, Azhar, Inzamam for world’s best batsman. But his consistency in 1996 world cup and dominance awarded him best ever player.

Tendulkar scored 2 magnificent hundred but one was against Kenya and other one was against Sri Lanka (his favorite Opponent). But his best inning was in Mumbai against Australia scoring 90 runs. However, India lost in Tendulkar’s best inning with 2 overs to spare and only 16 odd runs. India was chasing under lights and Tendulkar crumble in a pressure getting out @ 90’s Stumped by Healy. Mark Waugh scored a century in that game, also, he took prize wicket of Tendulkar and Whats more, Mark Waugh was top scorer in Tendulkar’s best ever World cup performance.

India after knocked out in Semi-Final of World cup went to Singapore, and even though Tendulkar scored a hundred against Pakistan (again batting first), India lost and couldn’t even qualified for Finals.

Early April, 1996, India, Pakistan and South Africa went to Sharjah. After failing for first two games scoring 1 and 2 runs, Tendulkar scores 100 against Pakistan (of course batting first). But again as usual in Finals against South Africa, chasing 250+ total, Tendulkar ran himself out after scoring 50 odd runs.

India went to England in summer of 1996, Tendulkar registered mediocre performance of scoring 30, 6 and 1 run in 3 one dayers.

Football Week 3

2009-09-27T14:40:00.000-04:00

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Titans @ Jets Titans
Titans @ Jets Over 37
Chiefs @ Eagles Eagles -7.5
Chiefs @ Eagles Over 39
Browns @ Ravens Ravens -13.5
Browns @ Ravens Over 38.5
Giants @ Buccs Giants -6.5
Giants @ Buccs Under 45.5
Jaguars @ Texans Texans -3.5
Jaguars @ Texans Under 47
49ers @ Vikings Vikings -7
49ers @ Vikings Over 39.5
Falcons @ Patriots Patriots -4.5
Falcons @ Patriots Under 46.5
Redskins @ Lions Lions +6.5
Redskins @ Lions Over 38.5
Packers @ Rams Packers -6.5
Packers @ Rams Over 41.5
Bears @ Seahawks Bears -2.5
Bears @ Seahawks Over 37
Saints @ Bills Bills +6
Saints @ Bills Over 51.5
Dolphins @ Chargers Chargers -5.5
Dolphins @ Chargers Under 44
Steelers @ Bengals Steelers -3.5
Steelers @ Bengals Over 37.5
Broncos @ Raiders Broncos -1.5
Broncos @ Raiders Over 37
Colts @ Cardinals Colts +2.5
Colts @ Cardinals Over 48.5
Panthers @ Cowboys Panthers +8.5
Panthers @ Cowboys Over 47.5

Champions Trophy

2009-09-21T22:48:00.003-04:00

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From 1987, till today, it’s almost 22 years of experience of me watching Cricket. Today’s World, experience is what it counts when you need any job. 1987 Reliance World Cup when started every one said by looking into crystal ball that its going to be India Vs Pakistan in the Finals.

Say it expert’s curse or what, but every ICC tournament whenever started and had HOST as the favorite team to win it, it bounces back just like Newton’s Third Law. Every Action has equal and opposite Reaction. (Something like that, who in the world remembers Physics)

1987, India and Pakistan, Tournament favorite both lost in Semi-Finals and gave a birth to champion Australian. 1992, Best World Cup ever organized @ Australia and Australia was by far the most strong and favorite team and they didn’t even qualified for Semi Finals.

1996, World Cup came back to sub continent and again Pakistan and India were favorite but alas came Lankans.

2007, World Cup went to South Africa and again bookies gave them clean cheat and said, the jinx is finally going to be broken, but never underestimate the force (& Foster’s Beer).

Again, this time, 2009, Champions Trophy is being held. So, what do you look for in a champion team. Left and Right hand combination to open the inning, world class all rounder, couple of exciting young middle order batsman and best fielders, one hard hitting all rounder, world record holding wicket-keeper batsman, left arm spinner, off break spinner, left arm young fast bowler, right arm best fast bowler in the world.

These mighty south-Africans got all of above, except perhaps a leg spinner but look around entire world is out of leg spin bowling. Ever Since Warne retired there is something missing in the world cricket and that is the grace which is gone.

When Tournament kicks off tomorrow, South Africans are not only going to be crowd’s favorite and ICC number 1 team in ODI’s but even bookies and everyone who is betting would put their money on them. But just like Life, there are always sharp unexpected turns and thrills that Cricket has to offer and that’s why we will be glued to television for next two weeks to see this thrilling adventure.

As long as Dhoni is the captain of India, and exciting Yuvraj in the middle order with GOD Tendulkar and terminator Bhajji, India is always going to be exciting team to watch & win and billion people’s hope and pray could take them all the way.

Australian Pride is at the stake, winning 4 world cups and they are the defending champions, Watch out they will be up for it.

Everyone wrote off Pakistan but what happened earlier this year in 20/20 world cup? They will be there to prove that it was not a fluke.

New Zealand is always a threatening side in these short tournaments as they proved in Millennium year.

Tournament underdog will be Sri Lankans. Can they start the upset tomorrow when they take on South Africans?

NFL Week 2

2009-09-19T01:21:00.002-04:00

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Predictions:
Raiders @ Chiefs --> Chiefs -3 & Under 38.5
Texans @ Titans --> Titans -6.5 & Over 41
Patriots @ Jets --> Patriots -3.5 & Over 46
Bengals @ Packers --> Packers -9 & Over 42
Vikings @ Lions --> Lions +10 & Over 45
Saints @ Eagles --> Eagles +1 & Over 46
Panthers @ Falcons --> Falcons -6 & Over 42.5
Rams @ Redskins --> Redskins -9.5 & Over 37
Cardinals @ Jaguars --> Jaguars -3 & Over 42.5
Seahawks @ 49ers --> Seahawks +1 & Over 39.5
Buccs @ Bills --> Bills -4.5 & Over 42
Browns @ Broncos --> Broncos -3 & Over 39
Ravens @ Chargers --> Ravens +3 & Under 40.5
Steelers @ Bears --> Steelers -3 & Over 37.5
Giants @ Cowboys -->Giants +3 & Over 45
Colts @ Dolphins --> Colts -3 & Under 42

TOP 10 Bollywood

2009-09-13T01:17:00.001-04:00

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From 2000's till Today:1) Dil Chahta Hai
2) Lagaan
3) Lage Raho Munnabhai
4) Sarkar
5) Jab We Met
6) Chak De India
7) Hera Pheri
8) Page 3
9) Lakshya
10) Dhoom -2
****************************************Just Missed Out
Kaminey, Taare Zameen Par, Gangajaal, Guru, Munnabhai MBBS, A Wednesday, Yuva, Ab Tak Chappan, Rang De Basanti, Saathiya, Dor

**********************************************

From 1990 till 1999:
1) Hum Aapke Hai Kaun
2) Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge
3) Andaz Apna Apna
4) Satya
5) Border
6) Sarfarosh
7) Lamhe
8) Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam
9) Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar
10) Ghayal

Just Missed:

Deewana Mastana, Virasaat, Agneepath, 1942 a Love Story, Vaastav, Rangeela, Maachis,

YSR Reddy

2009-09-04T13:07:00.002-04:00

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Infamous, YSR Ready got killed. I said killed because it was not a natural death. Natural Death for Congress leaders are hard to come by. From Mohandas Gandhi to Indira Gandhi and then Rajiv Gandhi and Rajesh Pilot or Madhavrao Scindia and now YSR Reddy.

Evidence are making me believe that it was purely an accident but nothing is certain in Indian Politics. I would not be surprised if his son himself could be an culprit to become the next chief minister, However this is just pure guess.

If someone can publish the figures of his wealth when he joined the Congress party and also the wealth he has now left behind, the true picture of his service will be known! Someone told me that he has around 80,000 carore rupees worth of wealth hiding somewhere. He is by far the most corrupt leader in entire Indian Politics.

A Christian by birth (with hindu name), to get the critical acclaim he used his profession of Doctor while to get masses vote, he declared himself as a Farmer. Reality is that Chandra babu Naydu created the wealth during his tenure and Mr.Reddy spread those wealth. (80% of that wealth went to his bank accounts while 20% to the people of Andhra Pradesh).

Now the soul of dead CM will be happy only if his son replaces his position.
Nation has wasted lot of man hours to-day due to declared holidays. What personal sorrow or sadness one can have when CM dies?. A human being is likely feel sorry only when near and dear one dies and not when the politicians who loot them every day die. Let not nation's resources wasted over the death of people like YSR whose wealth will take of several generations to come!!.

Saddest part is some people even suicide because of his death. How Idiot a person can be !!! While showing the news telecast, the amount of drama that people put forwards, the way they CRY and hold people each other. Specially Women, I mean they spend 1 hour to decorate themselves to go to that place with old their Gold etc , put up new saree etc, Were they not shocked or crying while getting ready? This whole freaking drama of crying over dead people needs to end. Emotions are understandable but you dont CRY for 10 hours for a person you were not knowing personally.

It is pathetic congress culture that wants YSR son to become next CM. Like Indira Gandhi family, this Reddy family will also fool Andhra. Some of the crowd who gathered during the cremeation, were turned to the TV cameras and waved smiling as if they came to watch a cricket match. It would have been more respectful if they carried proper national flags without replacing the Ashok Chakra with faces and election symbol.

Last but not the least, Dont go by publicity that this man is getting now since he is dead. I checked Wikipedia yesterday and Wiki did not even had a Picture of this person. Now they have updated it with his pic.

SEPTEMBER SPORTS

2009-08-31T23:55:00.002-04:00

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If you are a SPORTs fan, You gotto Love September.
First of all, Cricket Season will be back this month. India will be playing in Sri Lanka and then Champions Trophy.
If Cricket is not cup of your tea, Dont Worry, the most exciting Sports in the entire World, Yes, The Real Football, is back. English Premier League is in action and this time, it wont be just Top 4 or Manchester United at top. Chelsea will give a tough fight and Tottenham Spurs are already spreading the winning virus. Spanish League will be exciting as ever as Barcelona and Real Madrid will gear up with their big stars.

As far as America is concerend, People will forget Obama and Healthcare for a while as College Football begin this week with NFL beginning next week. Patriots Tom Brady is back and Tebow's Gators are raring to go. I am picking Chicago bears from National League while McCoy's Texas will have undefeated season.

US Open (Tennis and not Golf) began today and Murray, Roddick and Nadal will try to stop Federer winning it all but no one is going to Stop Williams Sisters.

Last but not the least, Baseball season will have the most exciting finish of September it has ever watched. Watchout Yankees, Red Sox is healthy now and to their full strength. Even though, Red Sox may not win American League East, they will definately win against Angels and then Yankees and then the World Series.

VONAGE

2009-08-30T23:18:00.003-04:00

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Vonage, one of the leading brand in Voice over IP phone has came up with the new package deal. This new deal gives ability for subscribers to give free unlimited call to India from USA. It also includes many other countries that you could give free calls to, for example, Canada.

It has a fixed Price menu with 25 bucks and few taxable junkies which makes the total bill goes upto 33$.

At start, It is a very lucrative offer as you can do unlimited calls anywhere in USA as well as India. However there are two minute catches.

Catch number 1 is that the plan can change anytime. That is if you have say, verizon or AT&T or Comcast as home phone provider and you change your services to Vonage. After 6 months or so, Vonage can start charging you as on per minute basis. Lets just say, Vonage will not change their rates, still their catch number 2 is very tricky.

One of their clausses says, there is a limit of 5000 Minutes on outgoing calls. Meaning, whether you gave a call to USA or India, maximum in a month you can call is 5000 minutes. At start, 5000 minutes seems like a huge number. However, that is not a case for people like me. I work from home many days (practically 20 days in a month). I have to be on phone for an average of 6 hours. 60 Minutes multiplied by 6 is 360 minutes per day. 360 minutes multiplied by 20 (days) is equal to 5200 Minutes.

This 5200 minutes is not calculating my international calling or weekend calls. Even then I would exceed for an about 200 minutes.

Then I checked my Reliance Calling card bills. It seems, I have been calling around worth of only 20$ per month. Plus, I am investing money on Reliance (Ambani Brothers, Gujju's, Mumbaites and an Indian) rather than Vonage Company.

So, Overall, even though the lucrative offer is very good, it is not good enough for me to cancel my Verizon Phone Number and use it for both USA as well as India calling.

Also, I am not the frequent caller to India so, to pay 33$ Per month only to call India and have another USA Number is not something, I am willing to take rightnow.

So, Bon Voyage to Vonage Offer.

Friday Golf

2009-08-23T22:51:00.002-04:00

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Kaminey

2009-08-16T22:42:00.002-04:00

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It is a risk. I saw Luck and did not saw "Love Aaj Kal" and was going for "Kaminey". Everyone knows that Love Aaj Kal is a hit movie. However, Love Aaj Kal is based on proven formula of "Love", bollywood's favorite theme.

Bollywood is making Love Stories ever since 1940's. Ofcourse, Every Love Story is different but then there is nothing novice about it. It is very difficult to convince myself to go to Theater to see a Love Story now.

Luck was different but I admit it was a bad decision to see that in theater. However, Kaminey is definately worth the effort. If I have to narrate the story, it is Bollywood's version of Slumdog.

Story of two brothers, living in the slum area of Mumbai, growing up differently. Salim and Javed wrote wonderful stories like this in 70's with Amitabh, with my favorite being Deewar.

However, what makes Kaminey different is Vishal Bhardwaj. Screenplay of the movie is very powerful. Movement of Camera to take different scenes are just fantastic.

Two stories moves completely parallely just like we have scene in Pulp Fiction or many Tarantino or Guy Ritchie style movies. If you are avid bollywood follower, you would be taken back by a huge surprise. At times you would have no clue in what is going on.

There are lot of things written about Shahid Kapoor but I was most impressed by Priyanka Chopra. Although her accent needs some improvement but still she was able to convince viewers of Marathi Mulgi. Actually her role is quiet small comparatively but it has all the shades, Comedy, Aggresiveness, Sensuality, Drama, Tragedy, Action as well. I wish this could have been made 10 years back and Madhuri Dixit would have been perfect for this role.

Story has different caste of people from Marathi to Afghani, and Africans to Bengali and ofcourse, Sharmaji from UP. There are well written, sarcastic dialogues of "We dont do unneeded war, we are not Americans" OR "If UP people disappear from Mumbai, Milk would be less sweet" etc.

Most Impressive part of Story Telling is, Telling a Story without a dialogue or song, For Example: The Chart written in Shahid's room defines his character that he is GOAL oriented individual or slogan of "Apna Hath Jaggannath" just outside bathroom.

When you need to show the climax with WAR kind of situation in slums , you need camera to be placed at distant while when there is a situation of sensuous kiss, you need camera with close-up. You dont need song to ruin the story telling and hence run the story with song of marriage. When Suresh Wadkar sings with Sunidhi, its like Class meets mass.

There are enough messages in the movie, with use of condom as well as how money and situation brings out "Kaminapan" from people. Or How much political our politics is or how corrupt our Law and Order situation is.

There is lot of Comedy (specially, between Priyanka and Shahid) as well as situational comedy due to "Haklapan" of second shahid.

Actually, I would like to see this movie second time to perhaps better understand it.

Mumbai Meri Jaan

2009-07-29T06:35:00.001-04:00

Story Taken from an email Forwarded to me:
Last Sunday, my wife, kid and I had to travel to Andheri from Bandra. When I waved at a passing auto rickshaw, little did I expect that this ride would be any different.

As we set off, my eyes fell on a few magazines (kept in an aircraft style pouch) behind the driver’s back rest. I looked in front and there was a small TV. The driver had put on the Doordarshan channel. My wife and I looked at each other with disbelief and amusement. In front of me was a small first-aid box with cotton, dettol and some medicines. This was enough for me to realise that I was in a special vehicle. Then I looked around again, and discovered more -there was a radio, fire extinguisher, wall clock, calendar, and pictures and symbols of all faiths – from Islam and Christianity to Buddhism, Hinduism and Sikhism. There were also pictures of the heroes of 26/11- Kamte, Salaskar, Karkare and Unnikrishnan. I realised that not only my vehicle, but also my driver was special.

I started chatting with him and the initial sense of ridicule and disbelief gradually diminished. I gathered that he had been driving an auto rickshaw for the past 8-9 years; he had lost his job when his employer’s plastic company was shut down. He had two school-going children, and he drove from 8 in the morning till 10 at night. No break unless he was unwell. “Sahab, ghar mein baith ke TV dekh kar kya faida? Do paisa income karega toh future mein kaam aayega.” (Sir, what’s the use of simply sitting at home and watching TV? If I earn some income, then it will be useful in the future.)

We realised that we had come across a man who represents Mumbai – the spirit of work, the spirit of travel and the spirit of excelling in life. I asked him whether he does anything else as I figured that he did not have too much spare time. He said that he goes to an old age home for women in Andheri once a week or whenever he has some extra income, where he donates tooth brushes, toothpastes, soap, hair oil, and other items of daily use. He pointed out to a painted message below the meter that read: “25 per cent discount on metered fare for the handicapped. Free rides for blind passengers up to Rs50″. He also said that his auto was mentioned on Radio Mirchi twice by the station RJs. The Marathi press in Mumbai know about him and have written a few pieces on him and his vehicle.

My wife and I were struck with awe. The man was a HERO! A hero who deserves all our respect. I know that my son, once he grows up, will realise that we have met a genuine hero. He has put questions to me such as why should we help other people? I will try to keep this incident alive in his memory.

Our journey came to an end; 45 minutes of a lesson in humility, selflessness and of a hero-worshipping Mumbai – my temporary home. We disembarked, and all I could do was to pay him a tip that would hardly cover a free ride for a blind man.

Some Pictures:

He has got a first aid box on the left and a newspaper box on right (which had all hindi-english- marathi-gujrati and economic times)

He has got a tv on the top with cable (I was watching colors channel) and below tat is the tissue box. on the left is the mandir types and dont miss the "Only gandhigiri" written there , below tat is the calender and a notepad and pen along with a blue fan (which is blowing towards the customer who sits)

25% discount for handicapped !! who on this earth can expect somethin like this from an rickshawala yaar!!

Novel Writing

2009-07-12T21:43:00.000-04:00

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A very shy, tall looking chap walks to an elderly old gentleman. Young kid ecstatically passes a piece of paper. There is a lot of joy and victory on bright young face of Nikhil. There is even a style of statement while giving the piece of paper.

This is not an ordinary piece of paper; it is a blend of hard-work, dedication & million of lines of mugging. It is our sixth semester result. Nikhil has topped the exam and even got First Class. It requires more than dedication and “Vidyalankar Classes” Crash Courses to achieve over all First Class Result in Computer Engineering Sixth Semester.

Nikhil accomplish that feat with flying colors and felt very euphoric while presenting that piece of paper to Mr.Raikar.

Mr.Raikar knew how important this piece of paper is to him and Nikhil but Mr.Raikar is also smart. He knew what is coming and cooking in Nikhil’s head. Mr.Raikar kept looking at the mark-sheet and appears to behave such that he is reading a normal newspaper.

After a while, Nikhil reminds his father, “I got First Class”.

Mr. Raikar kept one hand on Mark-Sheet while other one over his head. This was sort of Amitabh Bachhan look which strike a chord at Nikhil that one way or another; His father is going to crack a joke on him. Actually, this is where it gets tricky. Like all fathers, they have a way of reminding their sons that “Hum tumhare baap hai!”

Nikhil was expecting a reply from his father which never came. So, like “Beggars are not choosers”, Nikhil responds to his achievement by asking “I was wondering, if I can get a Bike”. That’s it, Nikhil said it. Not here or there, straight what he wanted to tell. It’s like “I got first class and now I deserve a bike”, perhaps rightly so.

Mr.Raikar stands up now. It’s almost imperative that, when a person stands up from sitting down position, he is going to speak truth and that too with higher volume. However, Mr.Raikar has class of his own. He asks, very quietly to Nikhil, “tujha nav kay?” (What is your name?)

Nikhil’s brain cells are moving like million miles per hour now. What exactly old man has in his mind? Why he is asking my name while he only kept it some 20 years ago. But after couple of second of silence, Nikhil says “Nikhil”.

Mr.Raikar responds this time with more authority “pura nav” (Full name, my son)

Nikhil says “Nikhil Raikar”.

Mr.Raikar replies with punch line”Ho, Tujha Nav, Nikhil Raikar aahe. Nikhil Tata va Nikhil Birla nahi”. (Your name is Nikhil Raikar, and not Nikhil Tata or Nikhil Birla).

Nikhil is hushed. Nikhil does not know how to react. Shall he laugh on a punch line of the day which has knocked him and his wish down completely? Or Shall He try another way to put his argument forward. He understood the seriousness in the humorous response of his father that they can not afford Bike and walk away from scene.

PYAASA

2009-07-06T23:16:00.002-04:00

'A picture speaks a thousand words'

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Five Point Someone

2009-07-04T04:56:00.003-04:00

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Many days during summer of 2002 at 162 Riverside Street, We end up watching the sunlight and sleep at 5 morning.

Today, Happened to be one of those day. Although, there was a plan to meet up those old good friends of mine and perhaps end up talking, discussing, argueing, shouting at each other till morning, But There is something about life, It has its own way to screw you.

So, I ended up reading a novel, "Five Point Someone" What not to do at IIT. This novel takes every engineer to those four grumpy years of their life and friends hood.

Finally, @ 5.00, I decided to cook up my type of SPICY RED MASALA MAGGIE, and had it with Heineken Beer and Five Point Someone. Ryan, Alok, Hari and Neha as Aamir, Madhavan, Sharman and Kareena respectively. I am eager to see them in 3 Idiots.

BHARA BHAIGAN

2009-07-02T20:56:00.009-04:00

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Method:

Prepare Egg Plants with 4 Cuts and Masala Inside.

Masala: Heat up Besan Powder (50%). Mix Besan Powder (55%) with 30% Cumin/Coriander Powder, 3% Salt, 10% Red Chilli Powder, 2% Turmeric Powder.

Take Oil, Heat It, Put Mustard Seeds, Cumin Seeds.
Put Garlic (lot of them, 4 or 5 big pieces)
Put Onions.(couple of small ones)
Let it heat till Onions turn golden brown. (Lid Close)
Put Turmeric Powder. (1 tea spoon)
Put Tomatoes.
Let it heat for another 2 minutes (Lid Close)
When it becomes half liquid, Add 5 small Baigans (Egg Plant).
Egg Plant needs to be cut on 4 sides with MASALA inside.

Close the Lid and let it cook for 2 more minutes.

Add Vertically cut, Potatoes. Stir them and let it cook with Open Lid for about 2 minutes.

Add little water, so that Potatoes does not stick at the bottom.

Add, Salt, Red Chilli Powder and Cumin/Coriander Powder and stir it.

Put one and half glass of Water and put the Lid On.

Let it cook for about 15 minutes (till you can break the potato with hand).

Add Coriander and Fresh Lemon Juice for garnishing.

(You can add Sugar as well, 2 spoons, depending upon your taste).

I normally add, Garlic Chutney and Sugar and Lemon Juice on top to add the flavor and Paprica for red colour)

Millenium Bollywood Songs

2009-06-29T00:01:00.003-04:00

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I was listening today, 90's most talked about song "Jhumma Chumma De De" and realized that there are so many songs which have created history out of it. Ding Dang Ding from Tezaab made Madhuri Dixit an overnight star. Oye OYe from Tridev was responsible for biggest blockbuster of 80's.

Let me prepare list of songs which I would say were most famous and talked about per year.

2001: This was the year where Lagaan went to Oscars while Gadar captured the box office. Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gum captured overseas market while Dil Chahta Hai captured the hearts of people. Title song of Dil Chahta Hai was probably the most sung song by people, specially by every visitor to GOA and almost every young person in their 20's and 30's.

2002: There were two songs in this year which captured most attention. First one is Dola Re Dola from Devdas due to two of the most glamourous actress of bollywood, Aishwarya Rai and Madhuri Dixit. However, Saathiya's title song (even though the tune was listen by whole South India million times before Saathiya released) was also equally famous.

2003: Although Bipasha Basu and John Abraham's chemistry created the magic of JISM and sensualism of "Jaadu Hai Nasha Hai", Brooklyn Bridge Walk of King Khan with Sonu Nigam's melodious tune "Kal Ho Na Ho" would take the credit of biggest hit. There are still people who keeps the tune of Kal Ho Na Ho as their Cell phone ring shows the popularity of song.

2004: Mallika's kisses and the most bold written lyrics of "Bhige Hoth Tere" would be perhaps most talked about song of youngstars, Song of the Year would go to "Dhoom Machale , Come on you people" captured the heart of kids, young, oldies, females, males everyone.

2005: There is no competition in 2005. There is no competition even for selecting this song as the song of last 10 years. Its Bachhan Parivar together singing "Kajra Re, Kajra re".

2006: Bachhan Bahu one more time with less clothes sung "Crazy Kiya Re" and patriotic indians replied "Rang De Basanti"..but Winner is Sunidhi with "Beedi Jalai Le".

2007: SRK made brilliant effort with six packs of "Dard-e-Disco" and inviting all his friends to dance around with "Deewangi" and sung "Chak De India" but honestly, kids loved the song of the year "Hare Raam Hare Raam..Hare Krishna Hare Raam". Afterall God's name comes first before Country.

2008: Pappu started dancing and sung "Rock On" and Akki and people of India said, "Singh is King" but Oscar winner A.R.Rahman replied back with winning tune of "JAI HO".

Dhoni

2009-06-15T22:47:00.002-04:00

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http://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Mocking-Bird/entry/effigy-burning-our-national-pastime

One so called, Intellectual person Manas Gupta shared his view point on India’s Cricket Lost via blogging and called emotional Indians “Thugs”.

India and Indians are very proud of having MS Dhoni as their leader in Cricket. India and Indians have made MS Dhoni, the status of Super Hero. India and Indians say very proudly that, “If Cricket is a religion than Tendulkar is God”. Indians are very emotional human being that is why they feel very dearly with every loss including myself. We also feel euphoric with every victory and disappointed with every loss. Those are the emotions of life which defines Indian and describe India.

Dhoni is an individual and is entitle to make mistake. More than Dhoni, Media needs to be blamed for creating lot of pressure. It all started with Padma Shri Awards that Dhoni was not able to receive personally. Dhoni also failed to get his much hyped Chennai Super Indians to win IPL. Dhoni’s own performance in IPL was ordinary compare to his extra ordinary abilities.

After going to England Dhoni & Team caught up with controversy surrounding Sehwag’s injury. It is not an inability of Indians to play Rising Deliveries because same kind of bowlers in lively pitches of Durban/Capetown; Raina,R.Sharma,Gambhir were able to clear the boundaries. It is one thing to hit the ball in NETS, It is other thing to HIT the bowler in Domestic Competition while It is totally different thing to play them when Billions of hopes rely on you. Every Dot ball increases the pressure and every boundary gives you a feeling such as King of the World.

Sure Dhoni needs to be blamed for missing run out Opportunity of Bravo in game against West Indies. Sure Dhoni needs to be blamed for sticking with Ishant Sharma (instead of Praveen Kumar). Sure Dhoni needs to be blamed for not using RPSingh and Zaheer Khan’s complete quota of over’s. Sure Dhoni needs to be blamed for promoting Jadeja ahead of Yuvraj. Cricket and Captainship are kind of funny and it is directly proportional to unexpected turns of Life. Sometimes similar kind of moves pays off (Joginder Sharma in last over against Pakistan) and whole country will make you Hero while sometimes they will burn effigies.

Burning Effigies just show the shear anger. Hinduism is not a Religion but way of living and believes in the rebirth and reincarnation of souls. Death is therefore not a great calamity, not an end of all, but a natural process in the existence of soul as a separate entity, by which it reassembles its resources, adjusts its course and returns again to the earth to continue its journey. In Hinduism death is a temporary cessation of physical activity, a necessary means of recycling the resources and energy and an opportunity for the jiva (that part which incarnates) to review its programs and policies.

Similar way, Burning an individual or effigies are means of giving rise to new birth to hopes, desires, dream with the game which is very close to India and Indians. Tomorrow when India will play dead rubber against South Africa, our hopes will again rise. We Indians will again step up together in favor of Dhoni and his team. (At least, I will).

2008 Hollywood Movies

2009-06-14T03:52:00.002-04:00

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In the order of my liking:

************************* (Good Movies)
Slumdog Millionaire
Iron Man
Body of Lies
Quantum of Solace
Revolutionary Road
The Dark Knight
What Happens in Vegas
************************ (Its all, Right Section)
Eagle Eye
Get Smart
Marley & Me
The Bank Job
Untraceable
Wanted
21
27 Dresses
Australia

************************************(Pathetic Section)
Bangkok Dangerous
Jumper
Lakeview Terrace
Righteous Kill
Seven Pounds
Taken
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Traitor
Valkyrie
Vicky Cristina Barcelona
Definately, Maybe
Mamma Mia!
Sex and the City
Smart People
The Reader
Transsiberian
Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins
88 Minutes
Fool's Gold
Rachel Getting Married
Then She Found Me
Baby Mama
Burn After Reading
Hancock
Mad Money

IIFA

2009-06-10T21:39:00.002-04:00

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Due to Strike,IPL and Elections, Indian Film Industry took a step back. It is finally coming up with lot of big films lined up. One of the step of bollywood coming back would be IIFA Awards.

Unfortunately, Most of the Big Stars would be absent this year's IIFA. Likes of SRK, Salman Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Aamir Khan, Irfan Khan, Shahid Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor, Akshay Kumar, Karan Johan, Kajol, Ajay Devgan, Ranbir Kapoor, Farhan Akhtar, John Abraham, Preity Zinta, Rani Mukherjee, Arjun Rampal, Hrithik Roshan, Fardeen Khan, Sanjay Dutt.

After Looking at the list, it seems only Amitabh Bachhan, Abhisekh Bachhan & Aishwarya Rai are the only people there. I wonder why they want to go to Macau, They could do this @ PRATIKSHA or JALSA :)

Weekend Delicacy

2009-06-07T15:01:00.002-04:00

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Whats in the Pic: DAL VADA, GREEN CHUTNEY, YOGURT CHUTNEY, MASALA ONIONS
How to Make It:
DAL VADA:
Get the GITS Package from Store. Put it in Water. Mix it Well. Add Ginger/Garlic/Coriander/Green Chillies in it. Keep it a side for half an hour.

heat some oil in a frying pan. add the batter in small rounds and fry until golden brown on medium heat to ensure that the insides get cooked thoroughly. Drain on paper towels.

Masala Onions:

cut the Onions. Put 4 or 5 Lemon Juice. Add Salt and Cumin/Coriander Powder. Mix it well.

Coriander Chutney:
Put, Green Chillies(8 or 9), Coriander, Salt, Sugar, Yourt(2 table spoon), Cumin/Coriander Power in the Grinder. Add little bit of Water.

Yogurt Chutney:

Mix Yogurt (1 Cup) and 3 Table Spoon Besan. Add little water.

Heat oil in a saucepan, Add Mustard Seeds, Chopped Green Chillies, and Curry Leaves. When they start to sizzle, add the asafoetida. Now add the besan-yogurt mixture slowly. Keep stirring to avoid any lumps. Add Salt, a bit of Sugar.

Tennis

2009-06-07T14:27:00.002-04:00

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Roger Federer won one more grand slam. Federer is a good tennis player. Federer is the best tennis player in last five years. But Is he the greatest ever? I doubt.

I think, There is lack of brilliant tennis players in the world today. Closest person who can compete with Federer in this era is Nadal, and Nadal isnt quiet in the list of best ever.

In the 80's, there were Boris Becker and Stephen Edberg. 90's saw, Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi. Last 10 years it is Federer and Nadal.

However 80's had Becker, Edberg, Wilander, Pat Cash, Ivan Lendl, B. Borg, John McEnroe, Jimmy Connors who have won multi grand slams.

90's had Jim Courier, Becker, Sampras, Agassi, Bruguera, G.Kuerten, P. Rafter etc who have won multi grand slams.

If we look at last 6 years or so, there has been almost none other than Federer and Nadal who is capable of winning more than one grand slams. Does it show Federer and Nadal's dominance or does it show the lack of other players and their ability to compete?

Clothes

2009-06-01T11:50:00.003-04:00

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South Africa sucks big time. Just before South Africa Vs Australia Series, I watched India Vs New Zealand series on DirectTV. The Picture Clarity, Commentary Team, was so excellent, It was all High Defination.

When I got the news that IPL was going to be held in South Africa and not in England, I was disappointed because of the Picture Quality of the games being telecast are not of the high quality.

Today, I saw the first few games (Warm-Up) games for World Cup being held in England. Transmission/Commentary/Crowd/Seating Arrangement/Weather/Picture Quality/Camera Work..everything is just excellent.

It just lifts the spirit of the game specially for people who are watching it on Television Set. It is soothing experience, to see it being telecasted from England or for that matter Australia or New Zealand.

One of the most added factor are, "Clothes" or shall I say Colour of Clothes. Orange and Green was dearly missing in IPL.

Ireland won in Super Over. What a game. India game begins, Over and Out.

OSCAR

2009-06-01T01:18:00.002-04:00

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There is something about OSCAR winning movies. Saw two of them this weekend, Slumdog and Mystic River. Its too late to write about those movies, but I am creatin a space here so that I do not forget that I need to write about these two movies.

Dish

2009-06-01T01:12:00.002-04:00

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Every now and then, I think long and hard to remove Dish Network since there are hardly contents that they show in 15 channels are worth the money that I have to pay. But today was one of those day when entire Sunday afternoon was like worth having Dish Network, Hindi Package.

Starting with Singh is King, typical Hindi Masala Movie with Ace Akshay; followed it up with King Khan's Om Shanti Om. and Aamir Khan's Taare Zameen Par and Roshan's Jodha Akbar. Above all, It was "SARKAR". Specially, the scene between SARKAR and RASHEED, that's the scene that I can watch Million Times. What a Camera Work, What a Dialgoue, What a Posture, What an Acting, What a Performance,

Amitabh is far far far away from Aamir or Shahrukh or Roshan or Akshay or anyone else.

Fantasy Cricket World 20-20

2009-05-30T18:46:00.000-04:00

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I would like you to join a League in the game 'International 20-20' at Cricinfo Fantasy Cricket.

To join the league,

Step 1: Go to Cricinfo Fantasy Cricket

Step 2: Login with your Cricinfo ID (you will need to register if you do not have one)

Step 3: Create a team for yourself (this step is optional if you already have one)

Step 4: Click on 'Join a League' on the Left Hand Navigation

Step 5: On the page which appears, select your team, copy and paste the unique invitation code(LPIN) generated for you as shown below

Step 6: You are now a member of the league - all set to play Cricinfo Fantasy Cricket

Your Unique Invitation Code:

--------------------------------

81922-5f134ae004b7d789

--------------------------------

Looking forward to have you as part of the league

Warm Regards,
Cricinfo Fantasy Team

Amitabh

2009-05-26T09:25:00.002-04:00

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Karan Johar introduced Amitabh Bachhan the best possible way for the new generation. He said, "Now a days, We know this "THE" man with four options". This was due to the fact that Amitabh almost vanished in the late 90's and his come back movies were not doing great but got re-born with Kaun Banega Karorepati.

I always wonder, How best you can describe Amitabh Bachhan. There are million ways, I am sure, or Shall I say, "Billion ways". Every possible kid/woman/old man has different definations of Amitabh. The person who single handedly change the phenomenon of Bollywood Movies, The Person responsible for converting startdom into the new term called "Super Star".

While coming to work, I was listening "Khuda Gawah" songs and found another way to introduce Amitabh.

There is only one hero, one person, one star which can say the following lines and we as a fan still would like to believe that, It is actually possible.

"Mein Agar Mar Bhi Gaya, To Bhi Wapas Aavunga".

The man who has done so many miracles, the man who made us believe that, one person can take care of 15 Gunda's, The man who has the guts to go down to the people who are looking to kill him and come back as a winner. The man who almost died during the accident of film making"Coolie" when entire India prayed for him. When the sentence got written, "Even If I Die, I will come back" suits only him.

IPL Final Preview

2009-05-24T00:48:00.002-04:00

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"Dangerous game is about to begin". (Amitabh's Aankhen)

Both the team should consider themselves very lucky, happy, fortunate and satisfied for reaching the finale. Both the teams were at the rock bottom last year. Both the teams has went through a lot, but here they are competing for the top spot today.

If Deccan got the stars , Bangalore has the momentum. If Deccan's got Gilchrist, one of the top notch wicket-keeper, Bangalore got Mark Boucher who has the World Record in taking maximum number of catches behind the stumps.

If Deccan's got South African H.Gibbs, Bangalore got plenty of them starting with J.Kallis.

If Deccan's got Rohit Sharma, (Tomorrow's Sachin Tendulkar to be in Test Matches) then Bangalore got Manish Pandey(Tomorrow's Sachin Tendulkar in One-Dayers)

If Deccan got R.P.Singh, Bangalore got Praveen Kumar. (Both from UP, Swing Bowlers)

If Deccan got P.Ojha, Bangalore got World Class, Anil Kumble.

To Be Honest, There is very little which separates two teams. Both the team's got fighters. Both the team got stars. Both the team have Balance Team.

Bangalore however has a little winning streak going. In the first 5 games of IPL-2009, when Kevin Pietersen was leading Bangalore, they won only one game, and everyone thought that Bangalore is repeating their performance of last year and would be knock out of the competition.

While, Deccan during those early days had winning steak of 4 games. Winning 4 out of 4 games played was an unbelievable and awesome results for Deccan Chargers. However, they did not continue their performance throughout the competition. Actually they won only 4 games out of 10 and were barely reach the Semi-Final stage with the help of Net Run Rate.

Key Success of Deccan Chargers were due to Fidel Edwards in the beginning. Deccan had 2 good bowlers (R.P.Singh and P.Ojha) even last year but the difference was that Third Strike Bowler who could give them the edge and in came Edwards. Deccan has comparatively, better Batting Side then the Bowling Side. Gilchrist, Gibbs, Symonds, R.Sharma are four key performers. Its very difficult for opposition to take 4 wickets in 10 overs and highly unlikely that all four of them are going to fail. Out of those four , two of them are always going to score close to 40 runs and this will give them fighting score of 150. It is the emergence of T.Suman which helped them to reach those 170 which has helped them to reach Finals.

If Deccan came out with Suman, then Bangalore has Destiny's Child, Manish Pandey. Unlike everyone, I would not like to give all the credit to Anil Kumble. Surely he has helped the team to regroup, but it is the team which has performed throughout like they had nothing to loose. Even going in the Final, Bangalore would be underdog and Deccan would be favorite.

It would be very difficult for the likes of P.Kumar and V.Kumar to stop Gilchrist and Gibbs at the beginning and if they fail to take them out in the first 4 overs, The game would be over for them. Because from that point onwards, Deccan would be always looking to score beyond 160 and if the score is above 160, Bangalore would fell short by 10 runs or so. Bangalore's batting line up, includes, Kallis/R.Dravid/V.Kohli/Van Der Merve etc which are suited for the game which has score under 160. They would struggle if the score is beyond 160 and then would have to rely heavily on Ross Taylor and Manish Pandey/Uthappa.

While, Deccan Chargers, even if they are chasing 170, and loose either Gilchrist or Gibbs, have R.Sharma to fall back on and then Symonds.

All in all, We are up for one exciting final, and my money would be on Deccan Chargers.

Man Mohan

2009-05-22T23:22:00.004-04:00

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Yes, Man Madar seems to have been replaced by Man Mohan Singh now. For Some weird reasons, I am seeing a different PM in office now. Or Is that the projection that Congress is showing through Media?

Ever Since Advani blasted Man Mohan Singh during the Campaign, Perhaps Sonia Gandhi has realized that, It would not help if Man Mohan Singh does not get his own space and idea and let him run his own government. Today's statement to Karunanidhi also proves that point.

I believe that is also one of the reason, Rahul is not taking the cabinet yet. Congress is desparate to prove the point that, It is not being run by Gandhi's and PM has it own value, thought process and authority.

I would really hope that this strong image of Man Mohan lies for another 5 years and this is not just another strong political move by Congress.

A K Antony, P Chidambaram, Sushil Kumar Shinde, M Veerappa Moily, S Jaipal Reddy and C P Joshi denied taking the OATH in the name of GOD, they might have took in the name of "SONIA" or "SWISS BANK ACCOUNTS". Specially this Son of a Bitch, P.Chidambaram, I think he is the most hated politician ever.

IPL 2009 XI

2009-05-22T00:26:00.001-04:00

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Remember, I can only put 4 International Players. This is my best XI. Tendulkar, Nannes cant make it.

IPL XI
M.Hayden CHENNAI
A.Gilchrist DECCAN (Captain)
S.Raina CHENNAI
A.DeVillers DELHI
Yuvraj PUNJAB
R.Sharma DECCAN
Y.Pathan RAJASTHAN
R.P.Singh DECCAN
A.Nehra DELHI
S.Malinga MUMBAI
A.Kumble BANGALORE

Even after they have retired, Hayden and Gilchrist are the best opening pair. Perhaps, Tendulkar would have made it but he was not consistent in the entire tournament and he did not opened the inning as well. McCullum was out of touch in the first half of IPL. Chris Gayle just showed his class in couple of games. Jayasurya , Gambhir, Sehwag etc were not as consistent as Gilly and Haydo.

Suresh Raina was the best one down player. No Competition there.

DeVillers had to fight it out with J.P.Duminy but DeVillers performance throughout the competition was awesome.

Yuvraj , Rohit Sharma and Y.Pathan on their day can turn the game on their side in last 5 overs.

As far as Bowling Department was concerned, A.Nehra and R.P.Singh were far too good compared to Nannes, Abdulla etc. With two left arm fast bowlers in, there is no place for I.Pathan or Z.Khan or Nannes, MMPatel , Balaji etc. Malinga was best in the Depth and Kumble is still far more better than Harbhajan singh and P.Ojha.(Atleast in IPL2009).

Am I Missing anything , Oh Yes. No Player from Kolkatta...Lets Choose SRK as Owner or shall we go with Fake IPL Player :)

LTTE

2009-05-19T10:16:00.002-04:00

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Once upon a time, I met a guy in Mumbai Local Train when there was a cricket game being played between India Vs Pakistan. When I asked the result since he had the radio, he said, "Our team won". When I check the score, I realized, he was referring "Pakistan" as our team. From the look of his, He looked Muslim to me. I didnt asked his name, I didnt asked his religion. I didnt asked why those people supports the cricket team of Pakistan while they live in India.

I have heard stories, where there are regions in Mumbai where they give sweets when Pakistan wins the cricket match.

Today, almost half of Tamil Nadu is in the shock and unhappy, when sri Lanka claims that they have found the dead body of PRabhakaran, LTTE Leader. This makes me compare, (Some of the)Muslims living in India who supports Pakistani Cricket Team and (Some of the) Tamilians living in India who supports LTTE/Prabhakaran.

I wonder how Tamilians and Muslims are different? Both of them are supporting people of their belongings outside their Country?

Congress Youth or Family Business?

2009-05-18T00:13:00.001-04:00

Free CounterMilind Deora son of Murli Deora.(Both of them are Politicians)

Sachin Pilot son of Rajesh Pilot and Son in Law of Farooq Abdullah. (All three are Politicians)

Rahul Gandhi son of Rajiv Gandhi who is son of Indira Gandhi who was daughter of Jawaharlal Nehru (All four are Politicians)

Jyotiraditya Scindia son of Madhavrao Scindia and both of them are Politicians.

Is Congress really looking for YOUTH or HOME GROWN BUSINESS? Is India still a democratic country or ruled by Gandhi's?

Modi's Alternative

2009-05-17T22:52:00.001-04:00

Free CounterAfter Being Infamous, Would BJP risk of having Narendra Modi on their front cover or Can BJP be bold enough and say, "Sushma Swaraj" ? Or Would BJP go back a step and Say "Murli Manohar Joshi?" Or Would BJP say "Rajnath Singh" or Would BJP go Congress way and make a good front face of "Arun Jaitley"? ..Interesting Choices Ahead.

Indian Election

2009-05-17T03:08:00.002-04:00

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Indian Elections are over and so is wait. Man Madar will again be the Prime Minister. Man Madar will again need approval of 10, JanPath Road before he does anything.

Advani has failed and as stated by many, his dream of becoming Prime Minister of India will remain the dream. Its kind of sad that the person who devoted his life to become something, come so close but alass, can't just make it happen. Person migrated from Pakistan to India, Fought for India's Independence with RSS, almost double handedly (alongwith Vajpayee) formed the party , "Bhartiya Janata Party" who can compete against Corrupt Congress.

There are so many Parties, like Left Parties, Lok Satta, TDP, DMK, SP, BSP, but its so hard for them to go beyond their States and form a National Level Party. People may call it a bad move by calling a RATH YARTA in 90's but those are the kind of move which made BJP Popular and given an alternative to the people of India.

Congress ruled single handedly till 90's in India and injected the corruption in every corner of India like a Salt. Today, Every Office in India, Every Hospital, Every Police Station is corrupt and the credit goes to Congress (I). The root of the problem in corruption is the secured Govertment. Everyone knows Congress now is going to be in the Power for next five years and every officers would be start making millions of money in India, knowing they are protected for five years. States Like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, money will flow like a river and their respective chief ministers will have not bank accounts in Switzerland but they would be soon start owning banks.

90's when Congress was ruling we had "HAWALA KAND", and last year we had "SATYAM", only time will tell how many scams will come up in next 5 years. That Idiot(Innocent, naive) Rahul Gandhi says Youth of India voted for Congress. Youth of India was holidaying from Mumbai during three day long weekend.

Only good part of the election result was , Mayawati was shown the door and CASTE Politics has not worked. Policies of LEFT has also not worked and they got thrown out from Kerala and Bengal. Congress's major victory should be devoted to LEFT's who have failed miserably.

Only State where BJP was failed is Rajasthan. BJP and NDA has 18 less seats from last elections and all were lost in Rajasthan.

BJP did average in Gujarat and still a clear winner from Congress. They hold on to their leads/seats in Madhya Pradesh/Karnataka/Himachal Pradesh. They did almost same in Uttar Pradesh. They did exceptionally well thanx to Nitish Kumar in Bihar/Zharkhand.

BJP opened up their tally in West Bengal, did better in Assam and Tamil Nadu. This are the good signs for BJP.

It is going to be Narendra Modi Vs Rahul Gandhi in next election and its going to be great. Modi and BJP needs quiet a bit of work to do and hopefully they will do it without negative politics. Clearly, Religion based Politics would never help any party and they need to realize it, They need to expose the Corruption that Congress has injected, Health Problems that entire India is facing & Agricultural activities which is LOST WORLD in India rightnow.

RANN

2009-05-13T07:53:00.003-04:00

Free CounterRAMGOPAL VARMA'S RANN MOVIE SONG "JANA GANA MANA RANN HAI" LYRICS
जन गन मन रण है
इस रण में ज़ख्मी हुआ है भारत का भाग्य विधाता
पुनजब सिंध गुजरात मराठा
एक दुसरे से लड़ के मर रहे है

JANA GANA MANN RANN HAI
IS RANN MEIN ZAKHMI HUA HAI BHARAT KA BHAGYA VIDHATA
PUNJAB SINDH GUJRAT MARATHA
EK DOOSRE SE LAD KE MAR RAHE HAI

IS DESH NE HUMKO EK KIYA
HUM DESH KE TUKDEY KAR RAHEIN HAIN
DRAVID UTKAL BANGA
KHOON BAHAA KER, EK RANG KA KAR DIYA HUMNE TIRANGA
SARHADON PE JUNG AUR
GALIYON MEIN FASAAD DANGA
VINDH HIMACHAL YAMUNA GANGA
MEIN TEZAAB UBAL RAHA HAI
MAR GAYA SAB KA ZAMEER
JAANE KAB ZINDA HO AAGEY
PHIR BHI TAVA SHUBH NAAME JAAGE
TAVA SHUBH AASHISH MAANGE
AAG MEIN JAL KAR CHEEKH RAHA HAI
PHIR BHI KOI NAHI SACH KO BACHAATA
GAAHE TAVA JAYA GAATHA
DESH KA AISA HAAL HAI LEKIN
AAPAS MEIN LADD RAHEIN NETA
JANA GANN MANGAL DAAYAK JAYA HAI
BHAARAT KO BACHA LE VIDHAATA!!!
JAYA HAI – YA YEH – MARANN HAI
JANA – GANN – MANA – RANN HAI

Outsourced

2009-05-10T23:44:00.001-04:00

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I saw Outsourced , Its actually good funny movie..I like the Slum Scenes of Outsourced more than Slumdog ..In this movie, Director has shown some positive sides of Slums as well, like how people help each other...Interesting movie..I learned something about Shiva Linga as well..

Tendulkar - The Dumb Kar

2009-05-08T16:16:00.002-04:00

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First of all, Mumbai Indians are suppose to stick with the best Opening Pair of Tendulkar and Jayasurya. Why In the whole world would you pick Ronchi in place of Jayasurya and then do not come out and Open the Inning?

Second Mistake , Not Including Zaheer Khan. I mean I understand, people will say he is injured and all but I saw how he got injured. It was simple diving effort where he just put his body weight on the shoulder. Ita simple fix which needs maximum of one hour rest. Instead they resting him for one week. Why? So that he is fit for World Cup, like India does not have an Option of R.P.Singh or Ashish Nehra (Give me a Break)

Third Mistake: Putting Ronchi and Duminy to open out the Inning. I understand, Mumbai Indians wanted quick runs but how would you get quick runs from the person who is supposed to be playing his first game in IPL-2 and someone who is known for rotating the strike.

Fourth Mistake: Sending Pinu as Pinch Hitter. Give me a break, He can hit spinners allright but against Nannes and Nehra, he wasted 20 balls.

Fifth Mistake: Casual Run-Out of Master Blaster.

Sixth Mistake: Giving Instruction to Malinga to bowl short and have a field set to get Gambhir out by short pitch deliveries...Come on, Malinga is an ace bowler to pitch the ball up in the block-hole, thats how he got the wicket, Why in the whole World Tendulkar, who knows he is the Worst Captain , would do that?

Seventh Mistake: Defending 80 runs in 80 balls and not having a Slip Fielder for Bravo. Bravo bowled an excellent over who got the edge of Warner but Alaas, Sachin , the Oversmart Captain did not had Slip.

8th Mistake: When Bhajji and Duminy get Mumbai Indians back in the game, In Comes Mumbai ka Shana, Tendulkar and gave away 19 runs in one over. Heart-Broken. No, Not for giving away the runs but not putting a fielder where DeVillers hit 4 Boundaries, I mean same location, How Idiot a Captain , Bowler can be?

9th Mistake: Same as First Mistake, IF you dont want Jayasurya as Batsman, or Opener, Fine, How can you not have him as just Bowler? He would be the best bowler in this circumstances?

10th Mistake: Rohan Raje? I mean Bravo gave away only 2 runs in first over and This idiot gives the bowling to Rohan Raje?

LAst year, Pollock did his best to kept Mumbai Indians in the look for Semi Final and In Came The Dumb Kar and wasted all the efforts and made sure, Mumbai Indians dont qualify for Semi-Finals.

I hope/pray that he comes out all gun blazing as Batsman & get Jayasurya back.

BJP-Congress

2009-05-07T22:20:00.003-04:00

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According to website’s mock poll Prime Minister hopeful L.K.Advani, has already won hands down with 10 Lakhs (one Million) Votes while Man Madar has won 7 Lakhs (0.7 Million) Votes. Following are the reasons:

BJP is planning to give Rs 2/Kg Wheat while Congress like a typical business guys would buy it for 2Rs and sell it to people for 3Rs (More Corruption).

BJP promises to waive existing farm loans while Congress promises interest waivers. (Which one is more Actual Income or Interest?)

BJP for doubling personal IT exemption limit to Rs 3 lakh/annum while Congress have no such thing in their Agenda. BJP promises to scrap FBT & CST, Congress silent

BJP promises free bicycles to BPL girls, Congress to give incentives (In Turn Money which ofcourse wont reach to people as Corrupt people will take it in between but That is Congress's Motto, Corruption)

BJP promises to exempt pension income of senior citizens from tax. (This is very very important for parents of mine).

BJP remains committed to Ram Mandir at Ayodhya while Congress will make sure no Muslim Terrorist gets punishment (Be It Afzal Guru or Kasab)

BJP promises improved POTA-type law, to deport illegal immigrants while Congress will open the door from millions of Bangaldeshi and Talibanis.

Congress's Foreign Policies sucks big time, the only friend they made by Nuclear Deal with USA also got backfired with H-1B Visa Normalization and Cutting BPO Sector jobs from US Policies. Congress clearly screwed up with Nepal and have no clear direction in the matter of Sri Lankan Tamilian People. The BJP Thursday said it would not support any demand for formation of separate homeland for Sri Lankan-Tamils but wanted the ethnic community to live with equal rights.

Sprite(Dikhavo Pe Mat Jao, Apni Akkal Lagao)

2009-05-07T00:45:00.000-04:00

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BARMER

2009-05-07T00:07:00.003-04:00

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Read an interesting article on Rediff today. Feeling Happy about it. http://election.rediff.com/look/2009/may/06/loksabhapoll-why-barmers-muslims-love-this-bjp-mp.htm

I guess only money and power hungry whores support Congress(I), Where I stands for selfishness and Indira (Gandhi's family) instead of India while Bharitya Janata Party carries name of India (Bharat).

Also read comments from Yashwant Sinha on Obama's New Policy and BJP is ready to take tough stand against US Policies if they are Anti-Indians. Rajnath singh also made very clear that if there is another 26/11 type attack on Indian Soil, we will not hesitate to cross borders and fight against Terrorists.

Ofcourse, Our Man Madar Singh would be still waiting for an approval from Sonia to give out any statement while Naive Rahul is trying to please other parties, This Congress Bastards would do anything to keep themselves in Power.

Marley

2009-05-03T23:16:00.003-04:00

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Finally, Movie Weekend got over. I saw three movies,"TRAITOR", "BRIDE WARS" and "Marley and Me". All three of them are different movies touching different subjects. What I most liked/learned about Marley are the Interview lines.

Although, I like to believe that my job is kinda secure rightnow, You never know in this economy. Lines which were used in the Marley movie by Owen Wilson are fantastic. When the job interviewer asks him, What is so special about him, He replies, "He kinda always surprises himself". I said, Story of my life.

I didnt knew, I am gonna be studying Engineering, but I became one. I never knew, I am going to USA for higher studies, I did that. I never believed, I am going to Complete my Master;s Degree, I have it. I never believed, I am going to be in IT, but I am. I never believed I am going to do the CODING, I did that. I never believed, I am going to write Blogs, but I am doing that.

The thing about Life is that, It comes with the package of surprises and believe it, like it, hate it or not, That is actually the defination of Life.

Split Wide Open

2009-05-03T19:41:00.002-04:00

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When IPL Started, Delhi Mumbai and Chennai were hot favorites. After the first week, Deccan clearly came out as the team to beat. Dynamics will change completely in the next two weeks of IPL.

Since England Vs West Indies series will start, some of the stars will be missing in action but Since Australia Vs Pakistan series is over, some of the Australian stars will return in action.

Mumbai after today's loss looks more vulnerable specially when Tendulkar bundles out early. Malinga is hittable (Kallis took him apart). Zaheer is injury prone and Pitches are certainly not spinner friendly anymore as they were in the first two weeks.

Chennai is more or less like Indian team because of the presence of Indian skipper. However like typical Indian Cricket team, it always takes some time before get going. Chennai is now looking more and more like the team, critics were predicting. Even though Flintoff went early due to injury, they had the back up of Oram and Morkel. Problems with the all-rounders in the shorter form of the game is that, neither they give you strong batting neither they give you strong bowling. Morkel and Oram are not as good as Yusuf Pathan or Malinga who can change the scope of the game. Hayden,Raina,Dhoni, Badrinath in the batting line up will always give the edge to chennai in the high scoring game but they will never be the team who can defend the total.

Rajasthan Royals are exactly opposite to Chennai. If Chennai depends upon batting, Rajasthan depends upon their Bowling and Fielding. They do not have greatest of fielders like Duminy, Gibbs, Raina, Yuvraj etc but their Captain Courageous is very thoughtful in putting the right fielders at the correct location. Rajasthan are certainly missing Sohail Tanvir, Shane Watson and out of form Smith. Rajasthan has became the team of only two men (Yusuf Pathan and Shane Warne). The day Yusuf fails, Rajasthan fails. The day, Yusuf plays though, no score is defendable and Impossible spells out as I am Possible. Hopefully, Watson would return to Rajasthan as Batsman as they need him badly. If Smith comes in form, and Watson returns, Rajasthan can certainly eye Semi-Final birth.

Delhi Daredevils are the best team on paper. Most Importantly they are winning without the contributions from Sehwag and Gambhir. The day, those two started scoring, Delhi would be virtually invincible. They have the best back-up in bowling as well as batting department. They are surely going in the bus of semi-final but to become champion you need more than a good team and luck. Unfortunately , Delhi is the only team which I do not support and they would not carry by wishes.

Kolkatta Knight Riders is the team that I supported in IPL Version 1 and even in 2 but unfortunately they are the team which are least likely to reach Semi-Finals. They have everything wrong that they can hope for. From the Owner to the Coach, Out performing Captain, three wicket-keepers in the team. Dying Bowler, Ranji Trpohy Level Batsmans, Youngstars with passion but no game plan and the best ever leader who is not the Captain.

Punjab is the most shocking team. They have lost so many of good players Lee, Sreesanth, Shaun Marsh, James Hopes but still with the efforts of Triangle of Sangakkara, Yuvi and Jayawardene, they are still on the top of the table. I would be very surprised if they make it to the Top 4 but they are very good Opportunist. If Oppositite team gives a 0.1% of chance, they grab it with both hands and put the points on the table.

Deccan Chargers were underdog and now they are the DAWGS to beat. Gilly is fantastic and certainly most valuable asset. They have the back-up of Gibba/Rohit Sharma/Laxman/Ravi Teja/V.Rao and now they may get even Symonds back. They have the best spinner available in IPL after Warne named Pragyan Ojha. R.P.Singh is more than above average strike bowler. However the difference in Deccan Chargers were due to Field Edwards. Sadly, Edwards would be going to England now and it would be very good to see if Deccan can hold on to the edge that they have got.

Last but not the least, Bangalore must thank that Peter ka Beta and his luggage is out and now they have settled and Worst Fielder in the history of Cricket, Kumble as the Captain. Uthapa has finally stuck some form. They have the maximum South African resources available and they are certainly using them wisely. Bangalore could be the most surprised team to reach out to the Semi-Finals.

When the Tournament Started, My Prediction was: Chennai , Mumbai (In Finals) and Delhi and Kolkatta to be the other two teams to reach out to Semi-Final.

Now, Since Kolkatta is certainly out, I would say, Bangalore would be the fouth team.

If Possible, I would like to see, Deccan in place of Delhi but lets wait and watch, IPL is Split Wide Open now except for Kolkatta fans.

Jail Bail

2009-04-29T12:48:00.001-04:00

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JAIL FOR THE SON OF GUJARAT, BAIL FOR THE BROTHER OF ITALY (Modi, Quottrochi)

Fake IPL Player

2009-04-29T10:19:00.002-04:00

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I know Fake IPL Player is just an individual and not actually a member of the team but nevertheless, I enjoy the nick names that he gives to the players. Here is the List (not the complete one).

If I have to nominate 5 of the best, It would be
Peter Ka Beta
Apam Chutiya
Dildo
Kishen Kanaiyya
Little John

And the Award goes to APPAM CH****** :))

Here is the List.

Dildo -- Shahrukh Khan
Bevdaas -- Bangalore's Team
Gilli Danda -- Ashok Dinda
Mangal Pandey -- Laxmi Ratan Shukla
Lordie -- S. Ganguly
Bhookha Naan -- Coach Buchanan
Style Bhai -- Murli Karthik
Sheikh -- Shane Warne
Big Sister -- Shilpa Shetty
Little Sister -- Shamita Shetty
Shakespeare -- Akash Chopra
Ganji Hanger -- Sanjay Bangar
Bubli -- Preity Zinta
Appam Chutiya -- S.Sreesanth
Peter Ka Beta -- Petersen
Big Mac -- McCullum
Little John -- Ishant Sharma
Prince of Patiala-- Yuvraj Singh
RVR Singh -- VRV Singh
Kishen Kanhaiyya-- Ravi Shashtri
Sheeghra-Patan -- Yusuf Pathan
Calypso King -- Chris Gayle
Akram Azam -- Kamran Khan
Kaan Moolo -- Ajit Agarkar
Chintu Singh -- Mendis
Sandy Maddy Babe-- Mandira Bedi
The joker -- Chang (Indian Idol fame)
Meera Bhai -- Harbhajan Singh
Bangla Tiger -- Mortaza
Junta Tormentor -- Mendis
Boy George --
Phoren Babas --

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Modi/BJP/Gujarat

2009-04-21T10:51:00.003-04:00

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*Vibrant Gujarat global investor summit* --> Gathered Maximum Number of Investors.

*Agricultural Growth of 14% --> one month every year, we hold an agricultural festival in which about a lakh government servants go to the villages in May-June, braving the 44 degree temperatures, sit down with the farmers and work towards agricultural development. You remember what we do for two days out of two years, but where the government travels to the countryside for a month every year and promotes agriculture, you are not interested.

The result of such attitude is that the Manmohan Singh government's targeted agricultural growth of four per cent is stuck at 2.5%. The agricultural growth in my Gujarat is 14%, but no one looks at it.

Girl Child Education --> I have given priority to the girl child's education. Every year on June 13, 14 and 15 my entire government goes to the villages -- and you are also invited to come along -- the chief minister, minister, chief secretary, secretary, IAS officers, all of us go from home to home and get the girl child admitted in schools. And today my state has 100 per cent girl-child enrollment. You don't think this is work?

Chiranjeevi scheme --> in this nation everyone from the poor man to the President is against maternal and infant mortality. My government has formulated the Chiranjeevi Yojana under which every below poverty line mother will have her childbirth in hospital, I have started this as a movement, and done partnerships with private doctors. From 40%, today we have 80% to 85% of the deliveries happening in hospitals, thus we have saved the lives of many poor mothers and children. But you are not interested in this.

There is a saying 'justice delayed is justice denied'. Everyone knows of it, you do too. I have done three major things in Gujarat. I have increased court hours by 30 minutes every day; reduced court vacations by seven days; started evening courts with the same infrastructure.

We had 45 lakh cases pending from 2003-2004, to which 65 lakh new cases were added, making it more than one crore pending cases. After our initiatives, there are only 20 lakh pending court cases. Now my target is that by 2010, when Gujarat will complete 50 years, we will make it no-pendency. Cases will be disposed of in the very year they are filed.

Jyoti Gram Yojana --> thanks to which rural migration to cities has ended, all arrangements have been made. Very few of our villagers go to cities, which is a very interesting development about Gujarat.

If you provide urban amenities in villages, they will not go to the cities.

Wheat Price --> In Gujarat we have been providing wheat for the last seven years to those who live below the poverty line at Rs 2 a kg, I have been giving a subsidy of Rs 750 crore from the state treasury. Now I will ask the people, do you want wheat at Rs 2 a kg or Rs 3 a kg? I am giving it cheaper.

Internet --> Broadband Connectivity in Villages of Gujarat.

Nuclear Power --> Its not Man Madar Singh's Deal which proved India as Nuclear Power. World accepted India as Nuclear Power the day Atal Bihari Vajpayee dared America and went ahead with the nuclear tests. If Vajpayeeji had succumbed to American pressure we would have been left high and dry and not become a nuclear power. This happened when India's leadership showed steel. Not because of some deal.

What are the other things that drive Narendra Modi? Only devotion to Bharat Mata while Man Madar's Mata is Sonia Mata :))

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IPL

2009-04-18T00:50:00.002-04:00

Its less than six hours to go before the first game of IPL begins. I am nervous, excited, eager to see the first ball of the game.

I cant wait. Perhaps, I am also more excited because, I kept DirectTV just to watch IPL & Other Cricket on TV. I was impressed by New Zealand Vs India series and the crystal clear quality. I was disappointed though of the matches between South Africa and Australia. I hope and pray that IPL Quality would be much better than SA Vs Aus games.

I want to see who would be doing the commentary. I am pretty sure of Ravi Shashtri would be there but who else? I want to see who is going to be Umpiring. I am eager to see who is going to win the games.

I guess this is the beauty of IPL, There is no specific team that I cheer for. It is the Cricket in general or the change in Cricket that I am cheering for. Although, I would like to see Mumbai Indians win it all, I also support Chennai because of Dhoni & Flintoff.

I hate Rajasthan now because of "Good for nothing" Shilpa Shetty but then I like them because of Cricketer of the Century "Shane Warne". I have been ardent supporter of DADA and hence Kolkatta was my first choice of team last year.

I also love Adam Gilchrist and Rohit Sharma so I love to see Deccan win it all. I hate V.Mallaya and Uthapa,Kumble etc but then I love Kevin Pietersen.

Perhaps, Delhi and Banglore are the only two teams which I do not like as much compare to other teams. Poor Punjab How Can I miss them, Well They are not much of a team this year to look forward to but hey, they got Six King Yuvi and Sanga and pretty Preity Zinta.

Chennai Super Kings

2009-04-12T01:25:00.002-04:00

Chennai Super Kings are favorite to win the competition. They have the most sellable asset in the Cricket Market today, M.S.Dhoni. He is Captain Courageous and Calm.
He is not only King but Super King.

He has team of lot of Options. He has team of lot of all-rounders. He has team of lot of good young talented cricketers. He has team of leading test match wicket bowler. He has team which has two local fast bowlers with international exposure (NTINI & MORKEL).

There are lot of options to Open the inning but most likely, P.Patel and M.Hayden should be able to do the job in most games.

Hayden (S.Fleming)
P.Patel (S.Anirudha, M.Vijay)
S.Raina
M.S.Dhoni
Badrinath
Flintoff(Oram)
A.Morkel
Jogindar Sharma (V.Shivaramkrishna)
Gony
Balaji
Murlidharan (Ntini)

Mumbai Indians

2009-04-12T01:09:00.002-04:00

Heart is where Mumbai Is !!!

Mumbai Indians last year was unfortunate team to miss out to qualify for semi-finals. Mumbai Indians is one of the strongest team in IPL Season 2. However, Mumbai Indians are not the favorites to win the IPL. Chennai Super Stars are the best team and have good chance to win the IPL-2. But, if Mumbai Indians do qualify for the Final (and most likely they will), the side who has Tendulkar can never be written off on the day.

Tendulkar and Jayasurya was the combination in the dream team's of 90's. Even after a decade, they are still one of the fearsome partners. However, It is not the Opening Pair which gives Indians the edge, It is the strong and capable middle order which gives Mumbai Indians the stability and power to win the games.

Tendulkar's role would be to stick around till 16th over. If He is manage to do so, He would be scoring bulk of runs in the process. There are series of left handers dashers around Tendulkar. Jayasurya to start with and then Shikhar Dhawan, A.Nayar and J.P.Duminy to follow up.

Tendulkar's job is very simple and defined. Take run a ball and give strike to all dashers. At the end of 15th Over, if Tendulkar is still batting, He would be definately having 50 runs on his name and Mumbai Indians would have 120 Runs in 15 Overs. Their job in last 5 overs would be to score another 50 runs. Their Bowling Line Up is more than capable enough to defend those 170.

Zaheer Khan and Harbhajan Singh are in sublime form. D.Bravo would give them a company in almost entire IPL since he is not selected for West Indies team for the two test matches against England.

There will be one overseas bowler from the likes of D.Fernando or L.Malinga or K.Mills. alongside D.Kulkarni or R.Raje.

Possible XI:

Tendulkar, Jayasurya, S.Dhawan,A.Nayar (A.Rahane), Duminy, Bravo,Takawale,Harbhajansingh, Zaheer Khan, D.Kulkarni(R.Raje),Fernando (Mills, Malinga)

IPL Fantasy League Invitation

2009-04-11T01:48:00.001-04:00

Dear Friends,

Viral would like you to join a League in the game 'IPL 2009' at Cricinfo Fantasy Cricket.

To join the league,

Step 1: Go to Cricinfo Fantasy Cricket

Step 2: Login with your Cricinfo ID (you will need to register if you do not have one)

Step 3: Create a team for yourself (this step is optional if you already have one)

Step 4: Click on 'Join a League' on the Left Hand Navigation

Step 5: On the page which appears, select your team, copy and paste the unique invitation code(LPIN) generated for you as shown below

Step 6: You are now a member of the league - all set to play Cricinfo Fantasy Cricket

Your Unique Invitation Code:

--------------------------------

68937-01b9a3074ea63689

--------------------------------

Looking forward to have you as part of the league

Warm Regards,
Cricinfo Fantasy Team

Bangalore Royal Challengers

2009-04-11T00:49:00.002-04:00

Bangalore Team is more or less like NY Yankees. They have bunch of stars even the owner is a Star. Yankees unit is also sometimes referred as Bronx Zoo, because of lot of expectation from them and not able to fulfill them. Bangalore team can also be turn into Jokers or Zeroes from Heroes soon. There is no clear indication from their camp who would be the leader once, KP returns to England. (Perhaps, J.Kallis).

How does Kallis is a better 20-20 player than R.Dravid? (God knows)

Would number 3 position be filled by R.Uthappa or KP.

Will Kumble or Joshi be playing?

They have J.Ryder and R.Taylor who are having the time of their life. If K.P.Can show them to win one or two games, this side could end up winning many more games. At the sametime, if they start loosing 2 or 3 games, this side could end up being disaster yet again.

J.Ryder and Virat Kohli should Open. Uthapa, KP, and either Kallis or Taylor would make up Top 5. Chipli/Dhiman etc would be an allrounder alongwith Goswami as wicket keeper.

Their bowling line up would depend a lot of Steyn. P.Kumar and B.Kumar are the two best swing bowlers in the country today. Pankaj Singh or if two senior spinners are playing will take the last open slot in Bowling Line up.

Rajasthan Royals

2009-04-11T00:28:00.002-04:00

Let me just say this, If there is one man who forces me to wake up @ 4.00 in the morning to see IPL, his name is "Shane Warne". Ever since Warney retired, there is something missing in the test match cricket. It is just Warney who makes me support Rajasthan Royals.

Warney and Royals are badly hit by Pakistani's are not being part of IPL-2. S.Tanvir was fantastic in Season 1 and it would be very difficult for Tait or Morkel to fill in his shoes. However, I believe, one of them will have to do the job of Tanvir.

They still have best bowling line up in IPL-2 & balanced one too. Either TAIT or MORKEL would open up the bowling with Munaf Patel. S.Trivedi (the same fast bowler for which stupid shilpa shetty said, "You have to Spin the ball") and Warney would make up the other two bowlers. There is one more key missing ingredient, Shane Watson.

Perhaps, Bowling would not be as much suffered, but certainly batting would be. Either Henderson or Mascarenhas would need to step up.

They should have the services of Smith,Asnodkar,Y.Pathan,Kaif,Jadeja etc in the batting.

Royals wont be dominating this year but they can certainly make their run to qualify for Semi-Finals. Their rival would be Bangalore Royal Challengers to fight for the last spot. Perhaps, one of them team will win 8 game and will qualify for Semi-Finals.

Final XI,
G.Smith, Asnodkar,Y.Pathan,M.Kaif,R.Jadeja/Niraj Patel,Henderson/Mascarenhas,Rawat,Warne,M.Morkel,Munaf,S.Trivedi

Deccan Chargers

2009-04-11T00:08:00.002-04:00

If there is the most lovable character to choose from Australian Side, It has to be Adam Gilchrist. Perhaps, Harbhajan Singh would argue this fact, but there are very few "WALKERS" that have entered in the Test Match Arena and Gilchrist being one of them stands out.

It was Gilchrist's heroics in one of the game in IPL-1 which helped Deccan Chargers win 1 game. Everyone including Gilchrist would hope that, they would get much more match winning innings from him. Deccan Chargers batting line up is the strongest batting line up in IPL-2. Yes, They are stronger than Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians in terms of batting.

Even though, they would be loosing the services of A.Symonds, it would be blessing for H.Gibbs. Gilchrist and Gibbs could be much more dangerous combination than Tendulkar/Jayasurya or McCullum/Gayle or Sehwag/Gambhir in South Africa.

Apart from the two dashing Openers, they have the middle order full of stylish Indian batsmans. Rohit Sharma, V.V.S Laxman, Ravi Teja & Venu Gopal Rao. This 6 batsman are capable of chasing 180 runs.

However, their downside is their Bowling Line Up. Their Bowling line up is more than capable of giving more than 200 runs in 20 overs. Although R.P.Singh and P.Ojha even in last IPL 1 tried, they were let down by likes of Kalyankrishna and SarveshKumar. Hopefully, this year, inclusion of Shoaib Ahmed and Edwards would help them in winning few games more.

A.Gilchrist, H.Gibbs, R.Sharma, V.Rao, VVS Laxman, Ravi Teja, Vaas/Zoysa, R.P.Singh,P.Ojha, Edwards/Harris, S.Ahmed/Sarveshkumar/Kalyankrishna.

Prediction is that they would win 5 to 6 games but fell short by a game or two to qualify for Semi-Final.

Kings XI Punjab

2009-04-11T00:00:00.002-04:00

IPL 1 had Hyderabad's team as the most poor team. Predictions says, Kings XI Punjab in IPL 2 would be the worst team.

Shaun Marsh, Brett Lee and James Hopes would be busy with the international duties for Australia. They would miss almost every game of IPL-2. Sreesanth has been ruled out due to injury. J.Taylor is ruled out due to Injury.

Their only hopes are with the likes of Yuvraj Singh, Kumar Sangakkara and M.Jayawardene with the Support staff of Irfan Pathan, P.Chawla, VRVSingh and young south african Y.Abdulla.

Their likely XI would be:
T.Srivastava, K.Sangakkara,M.Jayawardene,Yuvraj Singh,Ravi Bopara, Karan Goel, Irfan Pathan,R.Powar, P.Chawla, VRVSingh & Y.Abdulla.

It would be only miracle which can help Punjab makes it to the semi finals. I would be even surprised if they can manage to win even more than 4 games.

Narendra Modi

2009-04-10T15:26:00.002-04:00

One of the Primary reason of supporting BJP, is to get Narendra Modi as Home Minister of India. Narendra Modi could excel and remain as one of the best Home Minister India ever had.

I really like his speech. It reminds of me of young A.B.Vajpayee. He is Poetic and straight talker. He means Business. Some of the statements that came out in this elections from Modi are:

"Congress 130 saal budi aurat hai, aur BJP 30 saal ka Jawaan". (Congress is 130 year old Lady while BJP which formed in 1978, is 30 year old Young)

"Delhi mein Dosti aur Gaon Mein Kushti". (All small parties like Left, Samajwadi, Lalu, NCP etc, fights during election against Congress in various states but when they reach Delhi after election, they become good friends and form the govt. with single agenda of ruling out BJP).

"Congress is PVT LTD Company". (Congress is owned by Gandhi's ever since it has borned. Be it Mahatma Gandhi or Nehru or Indira Gandhi or Rajiv Gandhi or Sonia Gandhi or Rahul Gandhi. Its like India is owned by Gandhi Family.)

Jai Hind !!!

Man Madar Singh

2009-04-10T12:02:00.002-04:00

First Reason to hate Man Madar Singh is that there is not a single decision he can take without the approval of 10 Janpath Road.

Second Reason to hate Man Madar Singh is that he being a SIKH, ready to be the Prime Minister from the Party which is responsible for killing thousands of innocent Sikhs in 80's.

Third Reason to hate Man Madar Singh is that he knows if he goes Public, not even a single person would vote for him. How coward the person can be that he is too afraid to stand in a Lok Sabha Election.

This person is a national disgrace as PM. He can't get elected even in municipal elections. He gets elected to RS that too from Assam. He made the life of Assamese miserable by indirectly supporting ULFA, permitting Bangladeshi illegals and more! This traitor should be sent back to from where he came!

Man Madar Singh proved time and again that he is just a idiot. How does he say that CBI did not inform him on the Tytler Issue.

Reason he is not doing Debate with Advani because, "no one understand what Man Madar speaks". He does not have anything to say except the Business deal (Nuclear Deal) that Corrupt Congress approved.

Baseball Begins

2009-04-05T23:38:00.002-04:00

The Red Sox's Opening Day roster is as follows:

Pitchers (12): Josh Beckett, Manny Delcarmen, Jon Lester, Javier Lopez, Justin Masterson, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Hideki Okajima, Jonathan Papelbon, Brad Penny, Ramon Ramirez, Takashi Saito and Tim Wakefield
Catchers (2): George Kottaras and Jason Varitek
Infielders (6): Green, Mike Lowell, Jed Lowrie, David Ortiz, Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis
Outfielders (5): Rocco Baldelli, Jason Bay, Chris Carter, J.D. Drew and Jacoby Ellsbury

Most Likely Red Sox's Batting Line Up will be:

Ellsbury,Pedroia,Ortiz,Youkilis,J.D.Drew,Bay,Lowell,Veritek,Lowrie.

Lets Go Red Sox !!!

Kolkatta Knight Riders

2009-04-05T01:29:00.002-04:00

Considering the consideration of all players signed up for Kolkatta for IPL Season 2 are available for selection, following XI would be my pick.

C.Gayle,McCullum,S.Ganguly,D.Hussey,C.Pujara,LRShukla,W.Saha,A.Agarkar,I.Sharma,Mendis,A.Dinda.

Openers:
Whenever available (First 6 games), Chris Gayle and Brendon McCullum should open the inning. I am not sure, if Ganguly wants to bat at number 3 position but Gayle and McCullum could be more dangerous than Sehwag/Gambhir or Tendulkar/Jayasurya. Specially since Gayle and McCullum are injury free and available for first six games. When Gayle is not available in May,Ganguly can join McCullum to open the inning. If Ganguly gets settled playing at number 3 then Akash Chopra can fill in(However this is very unlikely scenario).

Middle Order:
Unlike Delhi DD, Kolkatta has better and strong middle order. Given the circumstances that Gayle and McCullum would open the inning, they will have Ganguly, D.Hussey, C.Pujara, L.R.Shukla in the middle order. Specially D.Hussey would should be available for first couple of games and then last 4. D.Hussey is in prime form and match winner in 20-20 format. C.Pujara seems a better option than M.Tiwari from Delhi. In case of D.Hussey's absence, Brad Hodge can be a good replacement.

In the month of May, when Gayle would not be available, M.Mortaza would be the replacement.

Wicket Keeper:
Most Likely, W.Saha is going to keep the wickets. If he is unable to provide depth in the batting then McCullum who should be available for entire IPL could be used to keep the wickets. In Those circumstances an extra allrounder or batsman could be used in the lower middle order. (For Example: M.Mortaza or Lahiri).

Bowling Department:
Even without the presence of Shoaib Akhtar, Kolkatta has strong bowling line up. They have A.Dinda who was phenomenal in IPL-1 and continued his good performances in the Ranji games. Ishant Sharma is an ace bowler. A.Agarkar could be very handy.

Mendis would be the only person in most matches who would be an overseas player in the bowling department. Langervelt and Mortaza can be used if required to support the bowling.

All and all, Kolkatta team's fate would be decided in the first 6 games when Gayle would be available for selection.If Kolkatta manage to win 4 out of 6 first games then they will have good chance of winning total of 8 games and qualify for Semi-Final. A lot would depend upon Gayle/McCullum much like Sehwag/Gambhir and Tendulkar/Jayasurya, however, Kolkatta has advantage of having better bowling side and presence of Ganguly and D.Hussey in the middle order.

My Prediction says, Kolkatta will win 8 games and have to battle out the final spot of Semi-Final depending upon a difference of a game or run rate.

Delhi Daredevils

2009-04-05T00:29:00.002-04:00

Considering the consideration of all players signed up for Delhi for IPL Season 2 are available for selection, following XI would be my pick.

Segwag, Gambhir, A.Devilliers, M.Tiwari,P.Collingwood, R.Bhatia, D.Karthik,D.Vettori,A.Nehra,Yo Mahesh and Glenn McGrath.

Sehwag & Gambhir (Openers)(These two are not only the best pair of Delhi DD but also the best pair available rightnow for the entire world if not India in all forms of game. There arent any chances of dropping either of them but if for injury reason, it does happen, then D.Warner from Australia (if available) would fit in. Since Australia would be playing five one-dayers with Pakistan during the middle of IPL, I am not sure about the availability of D.Warner. If Sehwag/Gambhir does become unavailable due to injury, it would be lucky break for M.Minhas).
A.Devilliers, M.Tiwari, P.Collingwood, R.Bhatia

(They would start of with 2 Overseas player in their middle order. If they struggle due to their Middle Order, they may think of inserting people like T.Dilshan, O.Shah or D.Warner into it. Since Collingwood and O.Shah would not be available in the month of May. It would be T.Dilshan who would be playing in the middle order. Manoj Tiwari was in excellent form in the Ranji Trophy for Bengal and R.Bhatia was more than above average player for Delhi in last IPL Season. In the month of April, for few early games, if Delhi realizes that they need some help in batting, they may inject 3 Overseas player instead of 2 in place of R.Bhatia)

Their ace wicket keeping choice would be in the hands of Dinesh Karthik. In case of an injury or out of form, D.Dilshan can keep the wickets.

They have lot of flexible options in the bowling department. They spearhead in the bowling would be old G.McGrath. A.Nehra would be almost certain to play in all games if he keeps his form. In case of out of form or Injury for Nehra they would fall back on P.Sangwan or D.Nannes (both are lefty). Their Spin Department is in the safe hands of D.Vettori and Amit Mishra. They also have the services of Yo Mahesh, last years key performer and Maharoof in case they need bowling allrounder in place of R.Bhatia/D.Vettori.

Delhi has lot of Options and good back up side. They have best Opening pair. They have solid middle-order. They look the most balance side in IPL-2.

Their disadvantage is that they rely heavily on either Sehwag or Gambhir to perform at the Top. They do not have very strong middle order who can survive without good start. They do not have lethal bowling attack who can support them in case they do not make enough runs on the board. All and All, they would win matches when Sehwag/Gambhir will be able to give them good start and one of them should score minimum of 40 runs to win them the games.

I would be surprise if they can win more than 2 matches without Sehwag/Gambhir. I would say they would win around 4 to 6 wins but fail to qualify for Semi-Finals.

150

2009-04-04T01:43:00.004-04:00

During Engineering College timeframe, there was a magical figure of 40. Everyone around were looking to score 40 for passing the exam. There was a figure of 35 in schools. There is a magical figure of 272 for forming the govertment in the center for India.

For IPL-2009, 150 will remain the magical figure. Any Team batting first, if scores above 150 would feel they have a chance. If they do below 150 it would lower their chance to win the game.

I have prepared following table which shows batting first what score would give them how much amount of confidence to win the game.

If Batting First Team Scores 240 Or Above Winning % Chance is 100%
If Batting First Team Scores 220 to 240 Winning % Chance is 98%
If Batting First Team Scores 200 to 220 Winning % Chance is 90%
If Batting First Team Scores 180 to 200 Winning % Chance is 75%
If Batting First Team Scores 160 to 180 Winning % Chance is 60%
If Batting First Team Scores 150 to 160 Winning % Chance is 50%
If Batting First Team Scores 140 to 150 Winning % Chance is 40%
If Batting First Team Scores 120 to 140 Winning % Chance is 25%
If Batting First Team Scores 100 to 120 Winning % Chance is 10%
If Batting First Team Scores 80 to 100 Winning % Chance is 2%
If Batting First Team Scores Below 80 Winning % Chance is 0%

BJP

2009-03-30T17:16:00.003-04:00

I am not ANTI MUSLIM. I do not believe in any religion other than "Cricket". If I take out list of friends that I had in school, it will consist of names such as Imtiaz, Momin etc. I have been ardent fan of Aamir Khan. My favorite cricketer over the years have been "Mohd. Azharuddin". My all time best Bowler is "Wasim Akram". Even in My car CD I prefer to listen to "Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan" and "Adnan Sami". Even during my schooling USA, I prefer to play in the team of "Sabeeh Ehsan" who is from Multan, Pakistan.

I do not feel the necessity to give more proof to anyone whom I believe in and whom I believe in Not. Whatever understanding of Religion I have got is from my friend "Manoj Japher". The Point that I am trying to make here is that, Believing in BJP does not prove that you are "Anti Muslim". BJP is a party based on "Hindutva". Hindutva is not a religion but the way of living.

I am proud to be a Hindu, an Indian. This does not mean that I judge people on the basis of their religion. I also do not belive they should be and so is BJP.

There are few bad people but it is not good to categarize them on the basis of religion. While Congress Party's Religion is "Money" which is being saved into millions of dollar in swiss bank.

I believe in BJP because I prefer L.K.Advani over ManMohan Singh as my prime minister. I believe L.K.Advani has his view points which he is not hiding and not hesitant to share it unlike Manmohan who first of all can not even utter a single word properly but also before speaking it needs permission from 10 Janpath Road.

I believe in BJP because, I prefer my Home Minister being Narendra Modi rather than Lalu Prasad Yadav or M.Chidabaram. I do not feel the need to describe achievement of N.Modi because blogging would be too small for his feats.

I believe in BJP because of their various financial policies. I believe in BJP for standing up for the rights to expose Swiss Bank Accounts.

Tendulkar

2009-03-30T00:36:00.002-04:00

I have been one of the biggest critics of Tendulkar. I have also been one of his biggest fan and I have said million times, "I hate Tendulkar". Saying this statement that I hate Tendulkar is not an easy one for cricket crazy lover like me. Specially because, I have been born and brought up in India and Mumbai.

Mumbai is a place where you can almost find anything and everything but you will not find a person who "HATES TENDULKAR". Tendulkar is not just an ordinary or extra-ordinary cricket player. Tendulkar is GOD of Cricket. You can not define Cricket without Tendulkar.

Almost from the days when Tendulkar started playing Cricket, I have found reasons to like someone else. I prefer technically sound, "Manjrekar" during late 80's. I was an instant admire of Brian Lara in early 90's. I have been fan of Mohd. Azharruddin during the time of late 90's and then Ganguly and now a days Dhoni.

Basically, I prefer everyone else, apart from Tendulkar. However, There is one fact that I always say "Tendulkar is GOD of Cricket". I do not doubt his ability, I do not question is attitude. I do not question his achievements. I do not question his technique. I do not question his personality. It is just that I do not like him.

Now a days, I found another reason to hate him. I feel Tendulkar is in the other league. He simply TOYS with Bowling. I feel he is playing for his and cricket fans. Its almost now a days that he is playing for Camera Men. I feel like watching a SHOW rather than Cricket when he is batting. I am almost ready to say, "He is not playing for India, he is playing for Indians".

IPL

2009-03-30T00:29:00.002-04:00

There are numerous reasons why I do not approve the idea of Indian Premier League being played outside of India.

First reason, is, "Why". Why IPL is not being played in India. The official reason given is, that it is an election time in India which is being held every 5 years. Due to Security Reason, IPL can not be placed at the same time as of elections. My Argument to that reason is: Does it mean every 5 year, IPL will be host outside of India? What if it is not IPL but World Cup?, What if it is not IPL but Commonwealth game? What if it is not IPL but Olympics? . The message given by not hosting IPL in India is loud and clear, "during election time, it is not safe in India to Host any major event?". Whom are we afraid for? Terrorist Attacks? So, Are we safely saying that "We are not safe, during Election Time?".

Are there any known threats that Govertment is hiding? Is our Govertment and Forces are not strong enough to do anything during Election Time?

Varun Gandhi

2009-03-28T21:46:00.003-04:00

Mr.Advani is blaming Congress and Opposite Parties to create Varun as Poster Boy. However, I feel, it is a very calculative move from BJP. In a way, BJP definately needs Varun for this election.

In the last election, when everyone were projecting BJP to win it, they did pretty good, in states like, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Gujarat, Maharashtra etc. However, they were let down in the Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh by their supporters (NDA).

BJP realized that, their only hope to form the Govt in Center is to win Uttar Pradesh. They can not let BSP/SP win 80% of the SEATS in UP. Congress were cruising with Rahul Gandhi spending lot of time/campaigning in UP. Advani's face they have already projected as PM. Advani can not run another RATH YATRA to with Ayodhya and UP. Enter's the Face of Election: Varun Gandhi.

Definately, Tape is doctored. Definately, Those are not Varun's Words. Definately, Varun is innocent. But, I dont think so, it matters now. What Matters for BJP is People in UP now are united and are in listening mode of Varun/BJP.

If this becomes a Mastermove or Flop Show, that only time can tell but for now, This is BJP's best chance to win the election. I dont think so, that BJP is going to hold on to the seats that they got at Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

However, BJP will gain another 10 seats in Maharashtra/Gujarat. There are many small states where BJP will gain, for example: Assam, Delhi, Haryana, Jharkhand and Gujarat. But In Order to form the govt. BJP will need to win "UP" (Minimum of 20 SEATS) and now it depends upon Varun.

My Prediction still says,"BJP will be the single largest Party; however I am more than skeptical of BJP forming the govt because, It is not A.B.Bajpayi whose face everyone can trust, It is Advani who has more enemy than friends.

iPhone

2009-03-27T10:53:00.002-04:00

It has been more than 6 months since I have iPhone. There are lot of pros and cons of having iPhone.

First and Foremost, I wanted to keep "AT&T" Services for my Voice Plan as most people that I make calls have AT&T Services and "Mobile to Mobile" Minutes are Free Minutes. Secondly, AT&T (Cingular) is the only company which carries "Roll-Over" Minutes. Third, I Work for AT&T, so I want to give money to that Company which eventualy pays me.

Looking at different AT&T Phone available, There arent many choices. I prefer "Nokia" and "Samsung" Phones because they are more user friendly. However, AT&T has more Motorola and Sony Ericsson Phones. Regular Phones (Not Smart Phones) which are available for AT&T Services does not carry lot of features. I was having Samsung Phone earlier and I was very happy with the usability features of it. However after 2 years, I was sort of bored with the phone and since I was eligible for a new phone, I wanted to grab that Opportunity.

Today is the age of Internet over the Phone and I was mentally prepared to give money for using Internet over the phone. Any Phone where if I am paying for "DATA PLAN" (Accessibility of Internet) was carrying price tag of minimum of 20$ per Month.Since I was ready to pay 20$, Only disadvantage of getting iPhone was giving 15$ more in Data Plan. Advantage of giving that 15$ Per Month was carrying the best available Smart Phone.

There is no doubt that iPhone is the best Smart Phone Available with the use of Internet over the phone. The Look and Feel of Phone and Touch Screen makes it even more worthy of having it. There are lot of features available, if you are technically smart. One of the feature that I use the most is "You Tube Videos". Just before going to sleep, I can listen to old hindi songs for 5 or 10 minutes. I am stuck in the middle of the traffic and I want to check Stock Market Price, I can. If I am sitting in cafetaria having my Lunch and want to check Cricket Score, I can. Those are some of the use of Internet that I loved in iPhone. There is a smart button in iPhone, which mutes the phone which helps me just entering "in-person" meeting.

However, after sometime, you realize that if you are IT Professional, and in front of Computer (Laptop with Internet) almost 15 hours a day, the use of Internet over phone does not attract you. Also When you compare the 35$ Data Plan and 35$ Voice Plan, you realize that, you are not using worth of 35$ per month. There is also one big disadvantage. iPhone is completely dependent upon, "iTune" software. Apple keep on releasing new version of iTune every month and you need to synchronize iPhone with new iTune every now and then else, many of the Applications given will not work.
Apple Browser given also does not work for all the websites, for example some of the Fantasy NFL Site will not work, some of the Graphics will not load as fast as you expect. Also, If you have two laptops and only one laptop carries few songs, when you use synchronize button on the second computer, you will loose all the songs downloaded in your iPhone since second laptop does not have those songs. It is tedious process to convert songs into "TUNES" for Free.

Corrupt Congress

2009-03-27T10:49:00.002-04:00

Congress == Corruption

Basically, I am farmer's son...so I would like to vote for Party who are good for Farmers...BJP (advani) even is proposing PEntion Plan for Farmers...MP (Madhya Pradesh) Govt..has successfully done "LADLI" Project where every girl who goes into school, their family gets Paid...Gujarat's Modi Govt..is competiting with all China Products and finding alternative to survive india without USA contribution.

BJP wants to educate people in villages...Congress wants to pay them money and get Votes..

Congress is also the Central Govt. when two of the biggest financial scams opened up. One of them being Harshad Mehta (Dalal Street) and now this year Satyam.

BJP is trying to reep the fruits from the trees (grown by congress) since congress is trying to spoil the root..
so..lets keep the root atleast..let BJP reep the fruits..new fruits will come next year..but if roots gets spoiled (by corruption) then you are loosing a tree (country)

Filmfare Awards Nominations & My Pick 2008

2009-02-15T01:25:00.001-05:00

BEST FILM
Dostana
Ghajini
Jodhaa Akbar
Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi
Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na
Rock On!!

According to me, Best Movie of the Year is, "A Wednesday". Unfortunately the movie has not been nominated in the Best Film Category. My Second Choice is "Sarkar Raj", that is also not nominated. Out of the nominated movie, I felt bored watching Jodha Akbar and Rock On. I did not even feel watching Rab Ne after reading the storylines and stopped watching Dostana after one hour. I am left out with Ghajini and Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na. My Pick would be Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na , simply because of young cast and crew and giving the fresh touch to simple story line.

BEST DIRECTOR
A.R. Murugadoss - Ghajini
Abhishek Kapoor - Rock On!!
Aditya Chopra - Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi
Ashutosh Gowariker - Jodhaa Akbar
Madhur Bhandarkar - Fashion
Neeraj Pandey - A Wednesday!

As I said earlier, "A Wednesday" is the best movie of the year for me and so is the Direction of the movie. My Vote goes for Neeraj Pandey.

BEST ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE
Aamir Khan - Ghajini
Abhishek Bachchan - Dostana
Hrithik Roshan - Jodhaa Akbar
Akshay Kumar - Sinng Is Kinng
Shah Rukh Khan - Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi
Naseeruddin Shah - A Wednesday!

It is tough to compare likes of Nasseruddin against Aamir. I am glad that they did not nominated Amitabh Bachhan for his role in Sarkar Raj, otherwise, It would have been very difficult choice to make. Since AB is not nominated, my choice would be Aamir Khan.

BEST ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE
ROLE Aishwarya Rai - Jodhaa Akbar
Anushka Sharma - Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi
Asin Thottumkal - Ghajini
Kajol - U Me Aur Hum
Priyanka Chopra - Fashion

I hope Asin gets best debutant award. I think, It happened with Hrithik Roshan when he won the best debutant and best male performer of the year award together. I went to see Ghajini for Aamir Khan but when I came out, I had all praised for Asin for Ghajini. I wish Aishwarya Rai gets the award if Asin does not. After all, she is from my college :))

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR (MALE)
Abhishek Bachchan - Sarkaar Raj
Arjun Rampal - Rock On!!
Pratik Babbar - Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na
Sonu Sood - Jodhaa Akbar
Tushaar Kapoor - Golmaal Returns
Vinay Pathak - Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi

It will be again battle of A's (Amitabh, Aamir, Aishwarya, Asin, Arjun, Abhisekh, A.R.Rahman, all A's). If they go by popularity, it would be AB Baby but if they go by performance, Arjun Rampal will get the award.

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR (FEMALE)
Bipasha Basu - Bachna Ae Haseeno
Kangana Ranaut - Fashion
Kiron Kher - Dostana
Ratna Pathak Shah - Jaanu Tu... Ya Jaane Na
Sahana Goswami - Rock On!!

I saw only 5 minutes of Fashion but the walk that I saw and facial expression, convinced me that Kangana deserve to get an Award.

BEST PLAYBACK SINGER (MALE)
Farhan Akhtar - Rock On!! - Socha Hai
KK - Bachna Ae Haseeno - Khuda Jaane
KK - Jannat - Zara Si Dil Mein
Rashid Ali - Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na - Kabhi Kabhi Aditi
Sonu Nigham - Jodhaa Akbar - Inn Lamho Ke Daaman Mein
Sukhwinder Singh - Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi – Haule Haule

Problem with KK is that he does not use CORUS in his songs. It is very difficult to lift the song with the pure talent of singing but thats what Mr. KK does best. Zara Si Dil Mein is beautyfully sung song and deserve the award.

BEST PLAYBACK SINGER (FEMALE)
Alka Yagnik - Yuvvraaj - Tu Muskura
Neha Bhasin - Fashion - Kuch Khaas Hai
Shilpa Rao - Bachna Ae Haseeno - Khuda Jaane
Shreya Ghoshal - Singh is Kinng - Teri Ore
Shruti Pathak - Fashion - Marjaawa
Sunidhi Chuhan - Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi - Dance Pe Chance

Shreya Ghosal has such a sweet voice that I would give it to her for Teri Ore although the song itself is not so good. Perhaps Shilpa Rao may get it for Khuda Jane.

NOMINEES FOR BEST LYRICS
Abbas Tyrewala - Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na - Kabhi Kabhi Aditi
Gulzar - Yuvvraaj - Tu Meri Dost Hai
Jaideep Sahni - Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi - Haule Haule
Javed Akhtar - Jodhaa Akbar - Jashn e Bahara
Javed Akhtar - Rock On!! - Socha Hai
Prasoon Joshi - Ghajini - Guzarish

Javed Akhtar for Socha Hai would be my pick.
BEST MUSIC DIRECTOR
A R Rahman - Ghajini
A R Rahman - Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na
A R Rahman - Jodhaa Kabar
Pritam - Race
Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy - Rock On!!
Vishal-Shekhar - Dostana

It would be very good battle to see which A.R.Rahman movie will get the award. My Pick would be Jaane Tu...

2008 Cricket World Test Team

2008-12-25T23:25:00.001-05:00

As far as Opening Batsmen role is concerned, one choice is unanimous and the same choice is true for the Captain of the Team as well. He is South-African captain and currently the most reliable opening batsman Graeme Smith.

To Give Smith company at the top of the order has many choices. Hayden had a huge struggling year and although Strauss was good enough, the choice needs to go between, either of the Indian Pair (Sehwag and/or Gautam Gambhir). Sehwag and Gambhir would make it in the squad and selection would depend upon the team composition.

Sehwag would be the first choice, considering he is right hander and to continue right and left combination with Smith. However, Sehwag is also more of a dasher and if team is going with only 5 Batsman, it makes sense to go with Gambhir at the top of the order.

In the Upper Middle-Order, one choice which would definitely make it is Kevin Pietersen. Choice of K.P. to bat at number 3 or number 4 depends upon the selection of other two members. If Hashim Amla is to be selected, then K.P. could go at number 4 but if Sachin Tendulkar gets the green light, K.P. needs to bat at number 3. Amla, Pietersen and Tendulkar would make the 3 and 4 with one of them sit out.

In Lower-Middle Order, the fight would be between, Chanderpaul who had an average of over 100 for 9 test matches. De Villers with his ability to take magnificent catches on the field gives the all round ability. If the team is required to select a genuine all rounder then Symonds might get a call. Since Kallis struggled through out the year and Bravo another all rounder is still struggling with injury, it would be fair to consider Daniel Vettori.

As far as wicket keeper’s choice is concerned, with his strong batting and leadership quality, M.S.Dhoni virtually qualifies himself before anyone in the team does.

Spin Department would have touch choices to consider. Vettori, if can not make it as All rounder, he surely deserves the top spot in the Spin Department. It is still early to consider Mendis since he played only 3 home test matches to compare him with Murlitharan and Harbhajan Singh out of which one of them should be the partner of Vettori.

Fast Bowling Department would have handful of left arm bowlers. Mitchel Johnson, Sidebottom and Zaheer Khan are the top 3 left armers and all three of them are deserving candidate. Since Zaheer was injured in the top half of the year and Sidebottom on the bottom, M.Johnson from Australia can seal the spot.

Since Brett Lee struggled in the last 6 months of the calendar year. Either of David Steyn or Ntini should be able to make it to the Top 11. Although it is too early to put Ishant Sharma in the top rank, like Mendis he also was top performer.

Squad :

Sehwag, Smith (Gambhir), Pietersen , Tendulkar (Amla), Chanderpaul ( Devillers), Symonds , Dhoni (Boucher), Vettori (Harbhajan Singh), Steyn , M.Johnson, Ntini (Zaheer, Sidebottom, I.Sharma, )

Trivia: Pakistan did not play a single test match in the entire year of 2008.

2008 Bollywood Music

2008-12-25T22:18:00.002-05:00

Male Playback Singing:

Number 5: Sukhwinder Singh (Haule Haule Ho Jayega Pyar from Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi)
Number 4: KK (Khuda Jane from Bachana E Haseeno)
Number 3: Rashid Ali (Kabhi Kabhi Aditi from Jane Tu Ya Jane Na)
Number 2: Atif Aslam (Pehli Nazar Mein Aisa Jadoo...Race)

Number 1: Udit Narayan (Falak Tak Chal...TASHAN)

Female Playback Singing:
Number 5: Shreya Ghosal (Teri Ore....Singh is King)
Number 4: Suzanne D'Mello (Hey Ya....Kidnap)
Number 3: Monali Thakur (Jara Jara Kiss Me ...Race)
Number 2: Shreya Ghosal (Tuj Mein Rab Dikhta Hai...Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi)
Number 1: Sunidhi Chauhan (Chaliya ....TASHAN)

Bollywood Movies 2001 onwards

2008-12-25T21:55:00.002-05:00

2007 : (Best in Bollywoood Year)
Taare Zameen Par, Om Shanti Om, Chak De India, Guru, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Life in a Metro, Jab We Met, Salaam e Ishq , Namastey London,Cheeni Kum,

2006:

Dhoom 2, Lage Raho , Rang De Basanti, Omkara, MalaMaal Weekly,Dor,

2005: (Worst Year) Black, Sarkar,

2004:

Dhoom, Lakshya, Khakee, Swades, Yuva, Ab Tak Chappan, Ek Haseena Thi,

2003: Munna bhai MBBS, Hungama, Gangaajal, Ishq Vishq,

2002: Aankhen, Saathiya, Company,

2001: Lagaan, K3G, DCH, Ajnabee..

I hate to say, but I do not see many movies from 2008 could make it in my fav. list. I admit, I still have to see many films, including Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, Ghajini, Dostana etc ...but I am disappointed with Sarkar Raj,Jodha Akbar and Singh is King and perhaps, only movie which could make it to top list would be RACE (so far...)

NFL Fantasy Finale

2008-12-21T23:24:00.000-05:00

This is the first time I attempted to sign up for a fantasy league in NFL. My season ended on the very first day of the NFL Season. Tom Brady got injured and had a season ending surgery and all hopes of Patriots having a good season were almost over. Tom Brady was also my first draft pick and my hopes were “almost” over.

I did not even bothered to look into the scores every week and couldn’t realize that I had 4 losses in the first 4 weeks. Suddenly, this Kurt Warner guy started me keeping in the game. I kept changing the team each week and suddenly I had a winning streak of 6 games and had my play-off hopes alive.

I won the play-offs, and then this week was the final week of the season for fantasy league. Kurt Warner who was responsible for keeping me in the league was a doubtful pick for this week. Simply because, Cardinals were playing Patriots and Patriots has to win the game to go to the Playoffs. Patriots are my favorite team and Kurt Warner is my favorite player this season simply because, he kept me in the league. So, I did not change Kurt Warner with Chad Pennington (BAD MOVE for this Week).

I had the best defensive units in the league, STEELERS and TITANS. I kept changing them every week depending upon which one they are playing against and every week they gave me more than 15 points. In fact, my defensive unit was my high scoring player.
Guess What, It is Final Week, and Steelers are playing against Titans. So, Which one to pick? Tough Choice, It’s like mother picking out of their two children. Finally, I picked Steelers because they are rated number 1 defensive team, and guess what they scored only 1 Point in the game (same score as of Kurt Warner), and Titans scored 23. (another BAD MOVE for this Week)

I also had two very good kickers in the team who on an average gave me minimum of 8 points every time I selected them. R. Longwell from Vikings and Carney from Giants. I picked Longwell for this week (Another bad move for this week).

I had 4 wide receivers and had to pick 3 out of 4. I had Bowe, Evans and L.Moore throughtout the season except few final games. I had M.Muhammad from Carolina panthers on the bench and in last 6 days, I just could not decide which one out of first three I need to drop to put M.Muhammad in. Unfortunately, I kept Muhammad on the bench for the finale and this was one more bad move. Muhsin Muhammad scored 8 points only but that is more than total of 6 points scored by three of my wide receivers (Bowe, Evans and Moore).

Now, Before I say, whether I won the game or not, let me give the name of the players my Opposite Team has. Opposite Team has best quarterback of NFL, Tony Romo. He scored 18 points as opposed to my Kurt Warner who scored only 1.

Opposite team has defensive unit of Vikings which scored 8 points as opposed to Steelers that scored only 1 point for me.

Opposite team has running back of T.Jones (number 1 in this season) and Kevin Smith who together scored 25 points.

Opposite Team had score of 56 Points and I had 16 points and only two players to play the game. Difference of 40 Points.

But the Running back which I had was (Steve Slaton) who scored 9 points and gave me hope. Like we all do, when the chips are down is go for the Hope and Pray. After all this was fantasy league and I fantasias that only one player that I have left, my running back will score some 4 touchdown (highly unlikely).

That player before I give the name out was going to play against the best defensive team, New York Giants. It is highly unlikely that someone would score 4 touchdowns against Giants defense. I would say, not even the whole team could score 4 touchdowns against Giants but this one player for me, scored 3 touchdowns in the first half against NY Giants. Player name, Ladies and Gentleman is : DeAngelo Williams.

DeAngelo Williams scored 34 points and gave me most unlikely victory and chance to win for a Super Bowl Tickets.

Oh No !!! Obama !!!

2008-12-17T11:45:00.000-05:00

Barack Obama won the election because ...

He is a Democratic Nominee...(30% of the Votes just comes because you are Democrate, same other 30% Goes to Republican nominee)

He is NOT REPUBLICAN (10% of Votes Remember, Bush is Republican :) People were so frustrated with Bush Administration that they would have Voted for anyone with Democratic Ticket)

He is YOUNG Nominee compared to his Opposite Leader (3% of Voters, mostly young people voted for Obama)

He is African-American (3% of people who did not even voted anytime in their life, went out to vote because, of this)

He is a Smart Politician who BUY OUT CNN (3% of Voters) (only known authentic news channel that people of america follows)

He is a Shrewd Politician who THREW money in Florida to Win some necessary 5 to 10 of Votes to swing the state from RED to Blue. (1% of over-all votes)

Only 2-3% of Voters think, that He is actually smarters than what he looks and He could actually be a good President..

It is Amazing, How Illusion can ruin your dream and 2009 could be one of those year..........where those 2-3% people who voted for Obama thinking, He is INTELLIGENT,Strong, Clever etc. etc...would wake up and see the reality...

Ganguly's Replacement

2008-11-13T00:34:00.002-05:00

I feel, Suresh Raina should be Ganguly's Replacement in the Test Squad but ongoing One-Day Series will determine whether it is Raina or Yuvraj or Kaif or S.Badrinath or Rohit Sharma or M.Vijay, who is taking his place.

My Thoughts on this can be viewed @ following youtube video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYsfuuJzOAY

Indian Idol 4(Top 14)

2008-11-09T23:03:00.002-05:00

Finally, We have Top 14 in Indian Idol season 4. Following are the list of contestants listed alphabetically.
1)Ananya Mishra
2)Bhavya Pandit
3)Kapil Thapa
4)Kuldeep Singh
5)Mohit Lalwani
6)Priyanka Negi
7)Prasenjit Kosambi
8)Rajdeep Chatterjee
9)Shini Kalvint
10)Sourabhee
11)Tulika Ganguly
12)Bhanu Pratap
13)Remo Ghosh
14)Torsha Sarkar

Following is the Order of my preference: (This order includes their singing ability, and their looks and their personality)

1)Rajdeep Chatterjee (I could relate to him, He sings great, looks good, smile's great, personality matches with one of my best friend, Ashutosh, Just Complete Package)
2)Bhavya Pandit (Bombaite, Sweet Singer, Sing Old Songs too)
3)Prasenjit Kosambi (Awesome Singer, Good Human Being)
4)Torsha Sarkar (Overall package, so far have sung non-challenging songs)
5)Sourabhee (Good Looks, Mix it up with Good Singing)
6)Tulika Ganguly (Good Looking)
7)Shini Kalvint (Fighter)
8)Kapil Thapa (Honest Singer)
9)Mohit Lalwani (Totla Singer, Good Actor)
10)Priyanka Negi (Can Only Talk, Cant Sing)
11)Kuldeep Singh (sing like Himesh with nose)
12)Remo Ghosh (can't sing)
13)Bhanu Pratap (hate him)
14)Ananya Mishra (hate her)

Following order is based on their Singing Ability Only(Not my liking but purely on my opinion on their Singing ability):-

Prasenjit Kosambi
Bhavya Pandit
Rajdeep Chatterjee
Ananya Mishra
Torsha Sarkar
Bhanu Pratap
Sourabhee
Shini Kalvint
Kuldeep Singh
Kapil Thapa
Mohit Lalwani
Tulika Ganguly
Priyanka Negi
Remo Ghosh

DADA-GIRI

2008-11-09T03:04:00.001-05:00

DADA-GIRI

Prince of Calcutta or Bengal Tiger or Comeback Kid or Maharaja of Indian Cricket or Captain Courageous or God on Off-Side or Genius on Timing; Saurav Chandidas Ganguly has many nick-names. Out of all names though for Ganguly “Dada-Giri” suits him the best. He remains best and certainly most elegant and flashy Left Handed Batsman played for India.

Out of many achievements that he has been able to accomplish, injecting Spirit and Attitude in Indian Cricket Team via his idealistic “Dada-Giri” would be something for which he will be remembered for centuries. His Captainship single-handedly changed the Outlook of the Indian Team.

“DADA” as we affectionately call Saurav Ganguly has given many moments of success.

Out of all the moments, his waving shirt off at auspicious Lord’s Balcony after winning the unbelievable Net West Final is simply Unforgettable. This was aggression personified.

There are couple of one-day series against Pakistan at Toronto, where he was simply phenomenon with his gentle medium pacer bowling and when Man of The Match was getting decided before even the captain throw the coin for Toss.

It was Ganguly who played that magnificent century inning at Dhaka against Pakistan to chase down more than 300 runs. In Today’s World, 300 seems like a everyday story to chase but that was the inning and the year which gave entire India the hope that India can win the matches without Sachin Tendulkar’s Century.

First Test Match of 2004 Series, against Australia at Brisbane, one of the greenest Top and the person who is least likely to score even double digit runs (described by Pandits), this Bravest of all Captain, comes in and scored 144 runs against the best of the pace attack of Australia.

He recognized the very talent of many youngsters and stuck with them for entire his captainship era. Be It, Harbhajan Singh or Sehwag or Mohd. Kaif or Yuvraj Singh or Zaheer Khan; all remained part of his winning scheme and that was the key reason for India to be able to reach World Cup Final.

One of the remarkable things is, India has never Lost a Test Match when Saurav has scored a century, and only other batsman for India to achieve this task is G.R.Vishwanath.

After being humiliated by media and selectors to make a come back and deliver at the highest level can only be compared with Dennis Lillie who made a come back even after accident and Pataudi who lost his eyes.

Scoring 183 against Sri Lanka in World-Cup Final against World’s Best Off Spinner(chucker), and those “Dancing Down The Track” and hitting the ball out of ground type of sixes just makes the best viewable every time I turn on You-Tube.

Every 100 tells a story --> 100 @ Calcutta his home ground against Pakistan and then followed it up with double century, 100 @ Zimbabwe after Greg Chappell’s blame that he should not be part of playing XI , All 3 hundreds in England against the condition which many has described Ganguly is not equipped to play with.

I always felt, after Kapil Dev’s retirement that Indian Cricket will not be the same and then we found Tendulkar at his best and my favorite Azhar. After Azhar retired I said the same thing, cricket will not be fun to watch after the Artistic brilliance departed but then I found Lara and Gilchrist era. After Lara, Wasim Akram, Warne and Gilchrist gone, it was perhaps Ganguly and Sehwag who kept me awake at night to watch the game. Now After Dada’s departure, before I even feel a hole, I already have couple of favorites to watch the game, “M.S.Dhoni” and “Kevin Pietersen”.

Indian Idol Season 4

2008-11-01T01:44:00.000-04:00

Top 10:

10 : Remo Ghosh/Kapil Thapa
Both of these guys are very jolly, fun-loving guys.

Kapil belongs to Army and loves three people that I love too, Aamir Khan, Aishwarya Rai and Shaan. This “Fauji bhai” is fearless and sing songs effectively yet effortlessly and most important sweetly.

Remo Ghosh is a school boy, cute looking baby face. He reminds me of Kunal Khemu who acted in Raja Hindustani. I have huge doubts over his singing capability, but then Indian Idol is not a singing contest, it is a VOTING contest, so he may surprise many people by going deep in the game with his image.

9 : Tulika Ganguly

I wish, Tulika could have participated in Miss India rather than Indian Idol contest. Her singing is not her best asset but her smile and look definitely is. I hope she makes it to the Top 10.

8 : Priyanka Negi

Another Delhi Gurl, along with Tulika and both of them represent “Young & Refreshing” India. Priyanka actually is a better singer going with her personality; I not only hope or wish but actually do believe she will make it in the Top 10.

7 : Mohit Lalwani

Mohit Lalwani reminds me a lot about my favorite Indian Idol 2 contestant Amey Date. Fluent and perfect singer going with that “X” factor makes him perfect candidate to be Indian Idol. However, Indian Idol has always given surprise results and I wont be surprised if this guy falls out in the middle of the game due to lack of votes. I also think that he has a bit of “TOTLA PAN” in his singing.

6 : Akanksha Palkar

This girl gives me an impression of “Making of another Lata Mangeshkar”. She has typical sweet and clean marathi voice. Her best performances are yet to come.

5 : Prosenjit Kosambi

Another MARATHI MANUS; reminds me a lot of my friend, Rohan Jamdar. He has same kind of confident attitude, and belief. You can add classical singing and MA in Music, which gives you the idea of how talented this kid is.

4 : Torsha Sarkar

She was no where near to my favorite zone until she sang, “Chura Liya Hai Tumne”. Although, I personally believe that this particular song itself is so sweet and melodious that anyone with good singing capability can make this song memorable. She has the personality of a champion in making if she get her focus right.

3 : Rajdeep Chatterjee

My Personal favorite is Rajdeep and I guess he is Judges Favorite too. He has tremendous range and he can take up any challenging songs at the same time can sing, slow melodious songs effectively as well.

2 : Sandeep Ubale

It is a very tough choice to make in between, Rajdeep and Sandeep. Both of them are talented and both of them are best equipped to become Indian Idol. Who Would Win the Battle and who will Miss out, is very hard to tell.

1 : Bhavya Pandit

I guess after 3 MEN Indian Idols, It is high time for a girl to be an Indian Idol. Bhavya is perfectly fit for it. She has that “Lata-Aasha” kind of voice with modern touch. She has very good personality to add to her singing.

There are other talented singers in the competition who unfortunately are not part of my Top 10.

Ananya , I think is very overrated and arrogant kid.
Keshav Prasad, Charit Dixit, Kuldeep Singh, Megha Sharma, Roshan, Sourabhee, Sreejita does not even belong to Top 20 list.

Shini may make it in Top 12 and so is perhaps Nirali.

Bhanu Pratap is a good singer but he is MALE RAKHI SAWANT, too much drama.

Red Sox Lost

2008-10-20T00:42:00.000-04:00

Red Sox lost to Tampa Bay Rays. Disappointed Yes, Sure It is. But when you look back, it is a season which could give lot of confidence for the years to come for the young blood and fen way fans.

Post-Season this time had limited Beckett, their ace pitcher which helped to kind of rise to occasion ability for Lefty Lester and phenomenon Dice K. Not to forget, Red Sox were without experience Curt Schilling from the start of the season. Red Sox Front Office would have quiet a discussion about Schilling’s Future when it comes to next season. Best case scenario for Red Sox is Beckett, Lester and Dice K healthy for the full season and post season, but planning can not consider the best case scenario and they need to add helping hand in the pitching staff. I thought , not considering SANTANA Deal was a major set back at the start of 2008 season and lets hope that red sox staff doesn’t miss out that kind of golden opportunity at the start of 2009 season. One of that Opportunity available is to grab C.C. Sabathia from Brewers.

Red sox were great to have Papelbon in the bullpen and I hope he would choose to stay there for 2009 season as well. But He definitely needs better support in setting him up. One of the person to let go is Mike Timlin. He blew up many games for Red Sox. First thing first though, they need to re-hire Okajima who was absolutely brilliant entire season and post season. They should try to get someone like Cruz from Arizona or Fuentes from Rockies as they are free agents.

One of the biggest positives from 2008 season was the outfield players from red sox. With Manny out they would definitely struggle to make key plays but their outfield would be strong with Bay, Crisp, Drew and Ellsbury. I would say, Outfield is something where Red Sox needs to stick to this four players. There are many high profile hitters available in the market such as Ramirez, Abreu, Crawford, Dunn, Edmonds, Guerrero, Monroe etc. but I think, Red Sox need to concentrate more to strengthen their pitching staff rather than hitting staff.

Mike Lowell’s departure in the middle of the post season was a huge blow to Red Sox. They missed him dearly but this was one of the mistakes that Red Sox did in the open market last year. When they knew that they are not going to pursue Santana deal on the expense of Lester then they should have went for Cabrera.

Looking at the positives for 2009 is that, Red Sox can take any of the in field capability in the market available. If they can get good first baseman, they can move Youkilis to Third Base and keep Lowrie/Lugo @ short stop. If they can get good third baseman, they can keep Youkilis @ first base. If they can get good Short Stop in place of Lugo deal, they should take it, move Lowrie to Third base and keep Youkilis @ First. So There are lot of options available but they need to get one strong in fielder.

Casey Blake move was heart breaking when red sox knew that Lowell is injured and they did not pursue that deal, they will get the same opportunity in the middle of off season and they should grab it, unless they are eyeing, Joe Crede from White Sox or Chipper Jones from Atlanta. If they can not get the third baseman, there is always an option open for Teixeira from Angels for first base position and he can definitely fill in Ramirez’s shoes at number 4 spot.

There is a sign at the back of many cars, which says, “I support Red Sox and each and every team who hates Yankees” , So, Looking @ the brighter picture of 2009, Lets Wish Rays for their first ever World Series Campaign !!!!

Lets go Red SOX

2008-10-17T00:28:00.000-04:00

Bottom of 7th Inning. This is the 5th game of the series. Red Sox are down 3 game to 1. Red Sox are down @ home and rays are about to sweep against Red Sox @ home.

Bottom of 7th Inning. Big Papi has just one hit in 11 @ bat. Team is struggling. Red Sox faithfuls are walking towards their home. But Wait Wait Wait ...Its FENWAY PARK ...How can this Park disappoints and here comes a thriller.

Bottom of 7th Inning. Big Papi gives the hope with 3 run homer and scores are 7-4.

Bottom of 8th Inning: J D Drew homers and scores are 7-6.

Bottom of 8th Inning: Crisp brings Kotsay home by and scores are LEVEL. Spectators are dancing and beer bottles are flowing.

Bottom of 9th .......Are you kidding me...Ofcourse Ofcourse Ofcourse ....RED SOX WINNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN....We are going to TAMPA BAY !!!!!!!!

Baseball Post Season

2008-10-02T01:14:00.002-04:00

Bye Bye Ganguly

2008-09-30T22:06:00.002-04:00

Cricket season for India is just a week away. One of the toughest year for Indian Test Cricket is about to begin. 4 Test Matches against Australia , 3 against England and 3 against Pakistan @ Pakistan is what Indian Test Team is going to play in the next 6 months.

New Group of Selectors will certainly bring new hopes and new ideas. Selection Committee Chairman, Kris Srikanth was known for his aggressive shot selection and one of the bravest test captain which was thrown away after controversial India's Tour of Pakistan in late 80's.

One of the Talk in Town during the selection would certainly be: Ganguly. It has been that way ever since Indian Cricket hired Greg Chappel. I was one of the greatest admire of captain courageous Ganguly in early 2000 till 2004. India needed someone who can just give it to Australian Attitude and English Posture. It was Ganguly who gave birth to this new outlook of Indian Cricket Team. He inserted to "give it back to Opposition" stance. No One can Take Away, What Ganguly has given to the team of India and no one can argue about his fighting quality to faught back and get back in the team.

However, I think Time has come now that he himself switch off his "Test Match career" to give chance to Younger Generation. IPL 2008 has given so many young stars who could prove themselves at the test match arena and I certainly think they are ready to take on the World. Suresh Raina, Rohit Sharma, Yuvraj Singh and S.Badrinath certainly deserve a chance and should be given a chance now.

Easiest decision for the selectors is going to be to choose the 3 Opening batsmen's for this upcoming Australian Tour. Virendra Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir are not only the best combination for One Dayers but also for Test Matches. Back Up Opener in case of any injury would be Akash Chopra.

Middle Order group of batsman should be : Rahul Dravid, Tendulkar, Laxman, Suresh Raina. With Dravid and Tendulkar being at number 3 and 4 is no brainer, many would argue the selection of Laxman. Laxman can be given a chance looking at his past career against Australia. Lately, he is not in his best form but this series could be an Utlimatum for him. Also, Sitting Out Ganguly should be a clear message to Laxman that he or Dravid could be next if they dont perform. Now Why Suresh Raina and not Yuvraj Singh. Answer is Simple: Look at last 12 months and compare Yuvraj's Performance and Suresh Raina's Performance. This kid Suresh Raina is all-round player. He can play both spin and swing bowling, He can attack and play a long inning as he has shown in his small Ranji Trophy career. Also, Giving Suresh Raina a chance will be a clear message to Dravid and Laxman that Yuvraj is knocking the door. Also this would be a message to Yuvraj Singh, Perform or Youngstars will take charge. Back-Up Option in the Middle Order should be given to : ROHIT SHARMA.

Selection of Dhoni as a wicket-keeper is no brainer as well. Spin Department will be in the hands of Kumble and Harbhajan. Many has hinted Kumble should retire but I think he is still the best bowler in the subcontinent pitches to take the wickets. Perhaps, this would be the last 10 test matches, he could play and I think He will feature in all of the 10 test matches unless he is injured. Entire Year, Piyush Chawla should be kept in the team so that he can learn few things from this Master Spinner and then perhaps end of 2009, he is ready to take over the responsibility of Spin Department from Kumble.

IPL 2008 has also gave too many fast bowling option to Indian Team. Zaheer Khan, R.P Singh, Irfan Pathan and in form Ashish Nehra are left handed fast bowling Option.
Munaf Patel, Ishant Sharma, Sreesanth, Gony, VRV Singh etc. Top 3 Bowlers in current form and experience are: Zaheer Khan , Ishant Sharma and Munaf Patel.

Final Squad: Sehwag, Gambhir, Dravid, Tendulkar, Laxman, Raina, Dhoni,Kumble, Harbhajan,Zaheer and Ishant Sharma.

Reserved: Munaf Patel, Piyush Chawla and S.Badrinath/Rohit Sharma.

India Aus Fantasy Cricket

2008-09-27T23:50:00.002-04:00

Dear Friends,

I would like you to join a League in the game 'India v Australia' at Cricinfo Fantasy Cricket.

To join the league,

Step 1: Go to Cricinfo Fantasy Cricket

Step 2: Login with your Cricinfo ID (you will need to register if you do not have one)

Step 3: Create a team for yourself (this step is optional if you already have one)

Step 4: Click on 'Join a League' on the Left Hand Navigation

Step 5: On the page which appears, select your team, copy and paste the unique invitation code(LPIN) generated for you as shown below

Step 6: You are now a member of the league - all set to play Cricinfo Fantasy Cricket

Your Unique Invitation Code:

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57417-3de500ce12ce32db

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Looking forward to have you as part of the league

Warm Regards,
Cricinfo Fantasy Team

Immigration Guru McCain

2008-09-16T21:52:00.002-04:00

If immigration is your number one political priority, whatshould you do this election? The answer to the question is simple for the ILW: if McCain wins, we win,and if Obama wins, we lose. That's because both Democrats and Republicansare almost unanimous in the belief that we need to import more foreignworkers, and to give amnesty to the ones who came to this countryillegally. Unfortunately immigration is one of the few issuesboth parties agree on, but it is true that their rhetoric on immigration isalmost identical.

We begin with the observation that Democrats will likely consolidate andexpand their control of the Senate and the House. This is good news for theimmigration cause. However, in spite of controlling Congress for the pasttwo years Democrats have done virtually nothing on immigration benefits andhave continued massive spending on immigration enforcement. So, even thoughmost political analysts are agreed that Democrats are poised forsignificant gains in the House and the Senate, that alone does not portendany immigration benefits in the coming years.

With that background, let us examine the difference in prospects forimmigration benefits on Jan 20, 2009 if we get President Obama or if we getPresident McCain.

If we get President Obama, Democrats are going to be euphoric on Jan 20,2009, and rightly so - being back in the White House, at last, after 8 longand bitter years. Democrats have not been able to pursue their prioritiesfor 8 years and we can expect them to act aggressively on their bigpriorities immediately after a President Obama takes office. There are atleast four Democratic priorities ahead of immigration: the Iraq war,universal health care, budget/taxes and energy policy. These are all large,complex issues and Congress will take most of a President Obama's firstterm to work on these. In such a scenario, we will not see any significantimmigration benefits in the foreseeable future.

If we get President McCain, we will still have a powerful Democraticmajority in Congress on Jan 20, 2009. This Congress will be at loggerheadswith him on all the major Democratic priorities. Democrats will want tobring the troops home whereas Mr. McCain wants them in Iraq for 100 years;Democrats see a health care crisis whereas Mr. McCain sees none; Democratswill want increased taxes whereas Mr. McCain would like to cut them;Democrats want to conserve oil and work on alternative sources of powerwhereas Mr. McCain would like to drill for oil all over the map. Democratsand a President McCain will be 180 degrees apart on all major Democraticpriorities. In this bitter fighting hardly anything will get donelegislatively, and both Democrats and Mr. McCain will be looking foropportunities to show the country that they can work on something together.

While there are a few areas of agreement between Mr. McCain and Democrats,immigration is the largest issue on which Democrats and McCain agree. Whilethe current Republican Party platform is the most anti-immigrant one inmemory, there were news reports that Mr. McCain, who has a long trackrecord of being pro-immigration, tried to make it more immigration-friendlyand failed. This is the issue on which he is most likely to stab hisparty's anti-immigrationist wing in the back both in his politicalinterests and due to his own convictions (Mr. McCain had to fight hisparty's anti-immigrationists tooth and nail during the Republicanprimaries). We expect to see almost all of the original McCain-Kennedy billbecome law during the first six months of a McCain Presidency.

The Bush era has been the worst in memory for immigration advocates.However the combination of a powerful Democratic majority in Congress withMr. McCain as President offers the best hope for speedily obtainingdesperately needed immigration benefits.