How Vetti Am I

உலக தமிழ் செம்மொழி மாநாடு

2010-06-23T09:26:00.000-07:00

As i was watching this video few things struck me and thought of sharing them.

First of all great work by AR Rehman and the anthem song has come out very well. However being a hard core fan of Iilayaraja I am wondering how Mastro would have composed this song...

This video is visually picturised very well - credit goes to the director. Couple of things which I liked in video are:

1. A girl enters into a Tech park and opens google in Tamil. How true it is. In which ever part of the world we are we always long to hear few words in Tamil.

2. A girl kid draws the picture of her father and mother on the wall and parents do appreciate it. That is a WOW feeling. Do whatever you want without getting scoldings from parents is cool.

Love and Marriage Explanation

2010-06-09T23:14:00.000-07:00

Student asks a teacher, "What is love?"

The teacher said, "in order to answer your question, go to the wheat field and choose the biggest wheat and come back.

But the rule is: you can go through them only once and cannot turn back to pick."

The student went to the field, go thru first row, he saw one big Wheat, but he wonders....may be there is a bigger one later. Then he saw another bigger one... but may be there is an even bigger one waiting for him.

Later, when he finished more than half of the wheat field, he start to realize that the wheat is not as big as the previous one he saw, he know he has missed the biggest one, and he regretted. So, he ended up went back to the teacher with empty hand.

The teacher told him, "...this is love... you keep looking for a better one, but when later you realize, you have already miss the person...."

*"What is marriage then?" the student asked.

The teacher said, "in order to answer your question, go to the corn field and choose the biggest corn and come back. But the rule is: you can go through them only once and cannot turn back to pick."

The student went to the corn field, this time he is careful not to repeat the previous mistake, when he reach the middle of the field, he has picked one medium corn that he feel satisfy, and come back to the teacher.

The teacher told him, "this time you bring back a corn.... you look for one that is just nice, and you have faith and believe this is the best one you get.... this is marriage."

காதல் சொல்லும் இதயம்

2010-05-28T19:44:00.000-07:00

உன்னை காணும் என் கண்களோ இரண்டு
உன்னிடம் காதலை சொல்லும் என் இதழ்கலோ இரண்டு
உன்னை காதல் செய்யும் என் இதயம் மட்டும் ஒன்று
உன் இதயத்தை என்னோடு சேர்பாயா...

Parents

2010-03-28T01:20:00.000-07:00

This was narrated to IIT students during a Seminar on Human Relations:

Venkatesh Balasubramaniam (who works for IIT) describes how his gesture of booking an air ticket for his father, his maiden flight, brought forth a rush of emotions and made him (Venkatesh) realize that how much we all take for granted when it comes to our parents.

My parents left for our native place on Thursday and we went to the airport to see them off. In fact, my father had never traveled by air before, so I just took this opportunity to make him experience the same. In spite of being asked to book tickets by train, I got them tickets on Jet Airways. The moment I handed over the tickets to him, he was surprised to see that I had booked them by air.. The excitement was very apparent on his face, waiting for the time of travel. Just like a school boy, he was preparing himself on that day and we all went to the airport, right from using the trolley for his luggage, the baggage check-in and asking for a window seat and waiting restlessly for the security check-in to happen. He was thoroughly enjoying himself and I, too, was overcome with joy watching him experience all these things.

As they were about to go in for the security check-in, he walked up to me with tears in his eyes and thanked me. He became very emotional and it was not as if I had done something great but the fact that this meant a great deal to him. When he said thanks, I told him there was no need to thank me. But later, thinking about the entire incident, I looked back at my life. As a child, how many dreams our parents have made come true.

Without understanding the financial situation, we ask for cricket bats, dresses, toys, outings, etc. Irrespective of their affordability, they have catered to all our needs. Did we ever think about the sacrifices they had to make to accommodate many of our wishes? Did we ever say thanks for all that they have done for us? Same way, today when it comes to our children, we always think that we should put them in a good school. Regardless of the amount of donation, we will ensure that we will have to give the child the best, theme parks, toys, etc. But we tend to forget that our parents have sacrificed a lot for our sake to see us happy, so it is our responsibility to ensure that their dreams are realized and what they failed to see when they were young. It is our responsibility to ensure that they experience all those and their life is complete.

Many times, when my parents had asked me some questions, I have actually answered back without patience. When my daughter asks me something, I have been very polite in answering. Now I realize how they would have felt at those moments. Let us realize that old age is a second childhood and just as we take care of our children, the same attention and same care needs to be given to our parents and elders. Rather than my dad saying thank you to me, I would want to say sorry for making him wait so long for this small dream. I do realize how much he has sacrificed for my sake and I will do my best to give the best possible attention to all their wishes.

Just because they are old does not mean that they will have to give up everything and keep sacrificing for their grandchildren also. They have wishes, too..

Take care of your parents. THEY ARE PRECIOUS

Crazy.....

2010-03-13T04:29:00.000-08:00

Today was kind of crazy. I had my break fast - good solid rice food. However within 15 min started feeling hungry. Then had a bottle of water. In the next 10 min again was hungry. Managed to stay hungry for another 30min and could not bear it anymore. Had couple of bananas. Oh... but still was hungry. So had a bar of chocolate.

Went to office and had a cup of coffee. Still :(

A friend of mine called when I told her abt this. She said it might be because of craving for some specific food and advised me to have something which I like. Quickly went to subway and got a sandwich. After having it felt much better.

Oh boy it was crazy as though I did not have food for days. Kind of crazy na...

Last Day @ This Office

2010-03-04T03:06:00.000-08:00

It has been more than 5 year since we moved into this office. We moved in on Oct 7th 2004. Today we are vacating this office. More than moving out of this building, I am feeling bad that we are leaving people here. I think we have one of the best known housekeeping department. They have spoilt us by getting anything and everything we wanted @ anytime anywhere. Will be missing them all.

2010-02-21T05:29:00.000-08:00

3.5 months since I wrote my last blog. Time is just flying these days and I am hardly finding time to do all the things I want to do.

Ok now, what should I write about. Have choices - about the last movie I saw, about things happening @ office, about life or about my Dubai trip. Hmm..... think I will write about the my Dubai trip.

Have been working without break for almost 6 years now and life is getting too monotonous. Work load is getting heavier and heavier and frustration is also building up. I think it is high time to take a break from work. I had been thinking about this for almost an year now and this time had decided.

Initially thought will take a break for 2 weeks - 1 week @ some relatives house and second week @ home. But this means I am reachable on phone. Wanted to stay completely away - esp without cell phone. Thats when Dubai struck me. Priya is there - so can just drop in and at the same time not reachable by anyone.

Then thought why not call Abarna also. Though not as expressive as me, she is also needs change. Moreover her sister is there, so why not. But it took me almost 2 months to convince her to come. Because of her, 1 week trip changed to 2 weeks now.

Just made couple of phone calls to Priya and few mail exchanges and all set for Dubai. We took a morning flight to Dubai and reached there in the evening. It was first time flight for Abs. For the first time she was pretty good. I remember the first time I went on flight.

We landed Dubai and completed all the formalities and came out. Abs's sister was already there and I had to wait for Balu to come and pick me. Pavam he had to rush from office to pick me. He dropped me home and left back to office. As soon as I entered Priya's house, her mom gave me a warm welcome and I could see she was happy to see me. And... Krishna was there. It is almost an year now since I saw him. He has grown and very happy to see the kutty. I had got him a cycle. Thought will open it when Priya comes back from office, but he did not allow me. So opened the parcel and it required some assembling. I was too tired to do it.

Priya came home and immediately took the tool box and assembled it. It was a surprise for me. All my life I have seen Priya as one lazy goose and irresponsible. But this Dubai trip was totally a shock for me. She has changed a lot over the years. Had become more responsible and I could hardly see the laziness in her. She gets up at 5:00 in the morning, cooks breakfast and lunch, leaves office @ 6:30, come back home around 5:00 in the evening, spends time with Krishna and cooks dinner. BOY..... I have never seen this Priya in my life.

I thoroughly enjoyed this trip, def one of the best in my life. Dubai reminded me of Singapore. Lot of resemblance between the two countries. Mornings were mostly spent with only Krishna and afternoons went out.

Day 1: Went to creek with Krishna. He had galla time in his train (thats his cycle) running from this end to that end and he gave me real exercise.

Day 2: Went to ski Dubai in Dubai metro. Dubai metro is an exact copy of Singapore metro. Not as good as Singapore but a good one. And Ski Dubai was awesome. I wounder how they manage to build a Ski in such a hot country. And the best part was Nachos and ice cream which we had there. People who love ice cream must visit cold stone. I was very impressed with the way they make ice cream and do mix and match.

Day 3: Priya and I went to Dhow Cruise. We traversed through water, in the cruise, looking at the city. After so many years, Priya and I had some good chat. We talked for about 2-3 hrs in the cruise. And before we could realise, we returned.

Day 4: It was Dolphin time. We went to Dolphinarium, Abs with her sis family had come there. We had some good time together. And Dolphin show was good, better than Singapore. But Priya had some tough time handling Krishna. He did not like the noise and darkness. She had to stay out most of the time trying to ease him.

Day 5: I love beaches and so went to one. Previous day we got a float for Krishna. But today he refused to use it - he was scared. It took him some time to get used to beach, but finally made it. Then we had to pull him out of the beach after some time.

Day 6: This is one of the best day in Dubai. Desert time - Priya did not want to come. So Abarna and I went to Dessert Saffari. It was total fun and I enjoyed it in and out. I enjoyed the food too. But Abs did not like the food. Well what else can you expect from a person who only loves South Indian spicy food. So I took her share of food too ;-)

Don't even ask me what I did other days. It was around the city and malls. Enjoyed every day. Priya's brother-in-law and his wife had come. They were no stranger for me. We roamed together, went out for dinner, saw movie and walked around malls.

Final day came and with no heart to leave Dubai esp Krishna and Priya I had to leave. I was on tears, but did not want them to know it. Gather myself up and Balu dropped me in the Airport. When Abs bid good bye to her sister she was on tears too. So both of us feel the same. Left Dubai and came back to India.

More to come... We landed at the airport and waited for our baggage. Every one left but still Abs did not receive her baggage. It was then we realised she lost her baggage. (It took almost a month for her to get her compensation and now she is recommending people not to travel through Jet Airways :).)

Next day had to go to office :(

This trip is a memorable trip for me. Those 12 days were like just 12 min and flew so fast. Don't know when am I going to have another trip like this again.

God's Children

2009-10-13T04:21:00.000-07:00

Visiting my own blog after a long time. Life is going on-n-on and nothing special or specific is happening.

Work @ office and @ home keeps me busy. Hardly finds time these days. Waiting to take a break and go somewhere. Hopefully it should happen by the end of this November.

Right now in office, after a long time found some free time and it is quite boring. So I though I will use this time to talk about my visit to an orphanage.

Last Saturday was my B'day. Every year we give food to orphan children @ udhavum karanghal but never visited this place in person. This year decided to spend some time there.

Morning went to a temple and around 12:30 went to the orphanage. Waited for about 30min for the lunch time. Around 1:00 one of the volunteer took us to the lunch hall where the kids were seated. First time in my life seeing orphan children. They were so cute and so good. They said their prayers and thanked us for the food and sang b'day song for me and my dad. I think this is the best blessing I have ever got in my life time.

I am fond of kids esp infants. So the volunteer took me to the infant room. As soon as I entered the room one kid looked at the me and smiled. His name was Praghaladhan. he was choooo...... chweettt..... and very cute kid. He imm came to me and started playing with me. He is just 6 months old.

As we were playing another one (about 1 yrs old) started holding my hand. She wanted me to play with her. My heart felt very bad for the kid. How much they are looking forward for people's love and affection. Don't know how parents have the heart to leave their children in orphanage.

After spending some time with Praghaladhan, it was time for me to leave. When I left him on his cradle, he looked into my eyes and was trying to say something. I think he does not want me to leave him there alone. His smile disappeared. For a sec I though he is going to cry. But the moment I moved out of the room he started playing with his toy. I think he knows this is how his life is going to be.

I wish I could change his life...

Women

2009-09-06T22:05:00.000-07:00

"Whatever you give a woman, she will make greater.
If you give her a house, she'll give you a home.
If you give her groceries, she'll give you a meal.
If you give her a smile, she'll give you her heart.
She multiplies and enlarges what is given to her.
So, if you give her any crap, be ready to receive a ton of shit."

A Slient Love

2009-06-11T03:38:00.000-07:00

This story touched my heart...

From the very Beginning, the girl's family objected strongly on her dating this guy. Saying that it has got to do with family background & that the girl will have to suffer for the rest of her life if she were to be with him.

Due to family's pressure, the couple quarrel very often. Though the girl love the guy deeply, but she always ask him: "How deep is your love for me?"

As the guy is not good with his words, this often cause the girl to be very upset. With that & the family's pressure, the girl often vent her anger on him. As for him, he only endure it in silence.

After a couple of years, the guy finally graduated & decided to further his studies in overseas. Before leaving, he proposed to the girl: "I'm not very good with words. But all I know is that I love you. If you allow me, I will take care of you for the rest of my life. As for your family, I'll try my best to talk them round. Will you marry me?"

The girl agreed, & with the guy's determination, the family finally gave in & agreed to let them get married. So before he leave, they got engaged.

The girl went out to the working society, whereas the guy was overseas, continuing his studies. They sent their love through emails & phone calls. Though it's hard, but both never thought of giving up.

One day, while the girl was on her way to work, she was knocked down by a car that lost control. When she woke up, she saw her parents beside her bed. She realised that she was badly injured. Seeing her mum crying, she wanted to comfort her. But she realized that all that could come out of her mouth was just a sigh. She has lost her voice......

The doctors says that the impact on her brain has caused her to lose her voice. Listening to her parents' comfort, but with nothing coming out from her, she broke down.

During the stay in hospital, besides silence cry,.....it's still just silence cry that companied her. Upon reaching home, everything seems to be the same. Except for the ringing tone of the phone. Which pierced into her heart everytime it rang. She does not wish to let the guy know. & not wanting to be a burden to him, she wrote a letter to him saying that she does not wish to wait any longer.

With that, she sent the ring back to him. In return, the guy sent millions & millions of reply, and countless of phonecalls,.. All the girl could do, besides crying, is still crying....

The parents decided to move away, hoping that she could eventually forget everything & be happy.

With a new environment, the girl learn sign language & started a new life. Telling herself everyday that she must forget the guy. One day, her friend came & told her that he's back. She asked her friend not to let him know what happened to her. Since then, there wasn't anymore news of him.

A year has passed & her friend came with an envelope, containing an invitation card for the guy's wedding. The girl was shattered. When she open the letter, she saw her name in it instead.

When she was about to ask her friend what's going on, she saw the guy standing in front of her. He used sign language telling her "I've spent a year's time to learn sign language. Just to let you know that I've not forgotten our promise. Let me have the chance to be your voice. I Love You. With that, he slipped the ring back into her finger. The girl finally smiled.

When I am jobless...

2009-06-04T04:16:00.000-07:00

Making of ZooZoo

2009-06-01T22:13:00.000-07:00

ZooZoo - the most sensational advertisement of this time. I found the following videos in some site and though will share it with people. Enjoy..........

Making of 'Vodafone Unwanted Calls' from Campaign India on Vimeo.

Making of 'Vodafone Stock Alerts' from Campaign India on Vimeo.

Making of 'Vodafone Phone Back up' from Campaign India on Vimeo.

Making of 'Vodafone Musical Greetings' from Campaign India on Vimeo.

Making of 'Vodafone Chota Credit' from Campaign India on Vimeo.

For more interesting things about ZooZoo: Click here

MM3 - Finals

2009-05-29T00:07:00.000-07:00

Great set, huge crowd, lot of celebrities, entire auditorium filled with claps and whistle sound and you know what I am talking about. It is the grand finale of Manaada Mayilada 3.

I am one of those fans of MM show. One day when we were discussing about reality shows at our office, I expressed my interest in MM. One of my friend offered to get me a ticket to see its shooting. Then one day he gave me couple of tickets for the final show which was to be held at Nehru Indoor Stadium. I was not interested in the first place as I am allergic to crowd. But did not want to offend this guy and I took the tickets.

I went to the show with a friend. We went there at 4:45. They had ample space to park the car (this is another thing I am scared of). Huge crowd was standing outside the stadium. We went in and found a good seat, straight in front of the dais (but away from the stage). We had to wait for almost one and a half hour before the show started. But this time just flew. We were looking at the huge auditorium. Lot of lights around, lot of cameras (almost 10-12 cameras) at different positions, stage decoration and celebrities. One things which grabbed our attention was 2 cameras. Those were revolving cameras operated manually. It was huge and went all around the auditorium. It was amazing to watch it.

Sanjai and Kreethi arrived on the stage and the whole crowd started applauding. Entire auditorium was waiting for this. Keerthi was wearing a very shiny dress, however on the television (2 huge screens were on the sides of the stage) it appeared to be a very normal dress.

Program started at 6:00. Next 3hrs just flew like 3minutes. After a very very long time I had very good time. It was as though I was in my college cultural. I was shouting, clapping and passing comments. It was a so much fun.

Lot of dances and lot of clipping. The best according to me were 1. Gokul and Sandi's performance and 2. Kala's group dance. I enjoyed every minute.

I felt happy to see Kushboo on stage. She is one of my fav actress and I admire her for her Tamil. She is one artist who has taken efforts to learn the language properly.

Around 8:50pm the most waited moment arrived. They started announcing the prize winners. I like Azar for his dance, however my person choice was Ranjit and Aishwarya. I admire them for their creativity and wanted them to win the title. Third place was announce and it was for Azar and Ranjani. Second place went to Fiaz and Dharshni. They are the most cutest couple in MM3. Their final dance - Octopus - was great. Wanted them to win a prize and felt very happy when they got second. And the first place went to........ none other than Ranjit and Aishwarya. I was all excited. They deserved it.

One thing which really surprised me was there was no show-off business after that. None of the prize winners spoke anything. This is unusual of any reality show. Any ways.... had a great time and thanks to Vejay - who got me the tickets for this show.

When we feel the pain, it means god is working on to improve us !!!

2009-05-20T03:00:00.000-07:00

Read this somewhere and this is a very nice piece...

A man went to a shop, picked up a cup & said ‘ This is so beautiful’ Suddenly the cup started talking “Oh man, I m beautiful now, but , I was sheer mud when the potter pulled me out from mother earth I felt tremendous pain wile being separated But He said, ‘just wait’ Then he churned me. I felt giddy when I was churned, & asked ‘why r u so cruel’ he said ‘just wait’. Then he put me in an oven & heated. I felt completely burnt, tremendous pain & asked again ‘why r u so cruel?He said ‘just wait’.than he poured hot paint & I felt the fumes & irritation. again asked ‘ why r u so cruel? He again said ‘just wait’ & put me into oven & again heated to make me strong, I felt life was so painful & pleaded him to leave me free. He said ‘ just wait’. & took me to a mirror & said “now look yourself what a change! I found myself so beautiful. When we feel the pain, it means god is working on to improve us !!!

This is very true. Whenever I feel the pain I keep saying this to myself "God is preparing me for something". And this is one feeling which keeps me going on most of the time.

Life is very simple. It is we who complicate things in life. However it is only these complicated things make life interesting and take us to the next level in life.

2009-05-18T02:04:00.000-07:00

Lot of things have happened. Many which I did not expect and many which I did not like. Don't know why this is happening to me. However have to face it. I assume "Edhuvum kadandhu sellum"

Whatever happens, life has to go on.

2009-04-05T21:23:00.000-07:00

Long time since I blogged. Hardly finding time these days to blog. Leave alone blogging not even finding time to do some introspection.

Starting my day at early at 5:00 - getting my breakfast and lunch ready - gyming - office - outing - reaching home @ 9:00PM. Then calls and then have to hit the bed. Weekends also just flys - Either in travel or some work.

Have to take a day off from office and spend some time for myself...

2009-03-14T09:28:00.000-07:00

என்ன நடக்கிறது தெரிகிறது ஆனால் புரியவில்லை...
செய்வது சரியா தவறா தெரியவில்லை...
என்னமோ நடக்கிறது எல்லாம் பிடிக்கிறது
நடப்பது நடக்கட்டும் அது நல்லதாக நடக்கட்டும்...

2009-03-09T07:58:00.000-07:00

எதிர்பார்க்காதது நடக்கிறது...
எதிர்பார்ப்பது நடக்குமா???
விடைகாண காத்திருக்க வேண்டும்

2009-02-27T17:28:00.001-08:00

உண்ணும் இரண்டு மாதங்கள்...
என்ன நடக்குமோ ஏது நடக்குமோ...

Siva Manasula Sakthi

2009-02-27T17:11:00.000-08:00

Saw this movie yesterday. Nothing much to say about it.

No logic
Not much of story
No great things

...but still worth watching it.

Had 3 hours of laughter. After a long time just kept laughing and laughing without thinking.

Naan Kadavul - Review

2009-02-12T21:27:00.000-08:00

It’s hard-hitting, disturbing … and real! - The Hindu

I saw the movie Naan Kadavul yesterday. Bala has once again proved himself by making a film which portrays the life of an Aghori and day-to-day affairs of beggars.

Very hard to take but totally realistic. I have never heard about aghoris but when I saw it in the big screen I felt as though it is happening next to me. Arya has done a marvelous role as an aghori. Arya hardly comes in few shots and speaks very less. His entire dialogs can be written on a single sheet of paper. Bala has broken all the rules of a hero in his previous movies and once again done it in this movie.

For the first time I am seeing a Tamil movie with lot of Hindi dialogs. It was not difficult to understand, however for people those who don't know Hindi will find it difficult to understand. They could have used Tamil subtitles. However I felt Bala's touch here - he used sub titles only for those very important dialogs and left others.

The hardest part in the movie is when they show the life of beggars. I have heard that Mafia use them for their selfish purpose. This movie clearly shows how beggars are misused or rather created by mafia. Many shots showed the cruelty against them. These scenes are definitely not for weak hearts.

Should mention about Pooja. She will never get this kind of role again. This movie helps in proving her talent once again. She has done her part very well.

There is one thing which I did not like in this movie. Pooja's introduction - She was singing in a train and begs. Begger's generally sing movie songs in their own voice. Instead movie shows her singing a new song (should be her own composition). This is no close to reality. Also in other scenes when she sings they could have used a female singer (to show the feel that Pooja herself is singing). Instead they have used voices from the movie songs directly. Again I was not very comfortable with this.

The best part in the movie, and the one which I liked, is the strand of intelligent humor. The dialogs between the beggars, in front of the hill temple, were very good. It made everyone in the theater laugh. It helps in easing the situation in such hard movie.

Stunts have also complimented th movie very well. A special round of applause to ‘Super’ Subbarayan.

How can I ever forget Iilayaraja. When I first heard the songs, did not like it much. However when I watched it in the theater - they were apt. Mastro is always Mastro. My most favourite song in this movie is the first song Om Sivo Ham which begins with a ritual Sanskrit chant on Shiva. I felt as though my whole body rejuvenated when I listened to this song. Another song which people would remember is Pichai Pathiram written by Mastro himself. This song is an ominous mixture of suppressed emotions and feelings. The way it is pictured is beyond words. There were other songs as part of the movie here and there.

On the whole even though the movie is a GHORE one, it is very well taken and a must watch one. However please keep children away from this movie.

I like those powerful eyes

2009-02-10T20:51:00.000-08:00

Nice Images

2009-02-07T08:16:00.000-08:00

Went to Paddy's wedding today. As soon as we entered into the main hall saw these images on plates. Very impressive ones... I liked it very much.

Learning of the Day...

2009-02-06T03:51:00.000-08:00

Today realized something very very important in life. Never be Egoist.

Yesterday my friend was annoyed with me for no mistake of mine. She was furious. Not willing to add fuel to the fire I just kept quite and went home. Today she was still angry. This time I wanted to sort it out and spoke to her. But she was totally pissed off and ... don't even want to mention it.

Then I went in person to her and spoke to her. Again she was not ready to listen to me and just kept going on and on. All I did was just kept quite and waited for her to vent her anger out. Then spoke to her and finally managed to convince her.

If this would have happened a year before, it would have been totally different. Our relationship would have broken cos I was egoistic at that time. But time has changed me. Now I know how to value relationship more than my personal ego.

Be it in any kind of relationship - friends, parents, husband-wife... any thing... anything which you value - there is no room for ego.

Customer Care in 2010

2009-02-02T16:32:00.000-08:00

Read this in another blog. Very very funny...

Operator : 'Thank you for calling Shanti Sagar Fast Food. May I have your...'

Customer: 'Helloo, can I order..'

Operator : 'Can I have your multi purpose card number first, Sir?'

Customer: 'It's aah..., hold on...... 889861356102049998-45-54610'

Operator : 'OK... you're... Mr Singh and you're calling from 1715B, 18th Cross Malleswaram. Your home number is 23440946, your office 56452302 and your mobile is 9823426625. You are now calling from your mobile now, Sir?'
Customer: 'How did you get all my phone numbers?

Operator : 'We are connected to the system Sir'

Customer: 'May I order your Seafood Pizza....'

Operator : 'That's not a good idea Sir'

Customer: 'How come?'

Operator : 'According to your medical records, you have high blood pressure and even higher cholesterol level Sir'

Customer: 'What?... What do you recommend then?'

Operator : 'Try our Low Fat Hokkien Mee Pizza. You'll like it'

Customer: 'How do you know for sure?'

Operator : 'You borrowed a book entitled 'Popular Hokkien Dishes' from the National Library last week Sir'

Customer: 'OK I give up... Give me three family size ones then, how much will that cost?'

Operator : 'That should be enough for your family of 10, Sir. The total is Rs 999.99'

Customer: 'Can I pay by credit card?'

Operator : 'I'm afraid you have to pay us cash, Sir. Your credit card is over the limit and you owe your bank Rs 39,720.55 since October last year. That's not including the late payment charges on your housing loan, Sir.'

Customer: 'I guess I have to run to the neighbourhood ATM and withdraw some cash before your guy arrives'

Operator : 'You can't Sir. Based on the records, you've reached your daily limit on machine withdrawal today'

Customer: 'Never mind just send the pizzas, I'll have the cash ready. How long is it gonna take anyway?'

Operator : 'About 45 minutes Sir, but if you can't wait you can always come and collect it on your scooter...'

Customer: ' What!'

Operator : 'According to the details in system ,you own a Scooter,...registration number KA 04 X 1123...'

Customer: ' ????'

Operator : 'Is there anything else Sir?'

Customer: 'Nothing... by the way... aren't you giving me that 3 free bottles of cola as advertised?'

Operator : 'We normally would Sir, but based on your records you're also diabetic....... '

Customer: #$$^%&$@$% ^

Operator : 'Better watch your language Sir. Remember on 15th July 1997 you were convicted of using abusive language on a policeman...?'

Customer: [Faints]

Forming a healthy society

2009-02-02T06:38:00.001-08:00

Saw this image in a site. I liked it very much. Cuty cuty one.

This image triggered another thought within me. I don't like kids playing with computer. We hardly see kids on roads these days. I still remember those days when my grandmother use to literally pull us into the house when we play on road. But these days kids just sit infront of television or play computer.

I think parents are to be blamed for this. As both parents are working these days, they try and give whatever kids ask for so that they can be free and relax. Instead they should encourage them to go out and play.

These days I am seeing lot of parks coming up in Chennai. Parents should make it a point to take their kids to such places. Only when kids move around with other kids and run around, they will stay active and we can form healthy society.

A Tribute to Nagesh

2009-01-31T05:51:00.000-08:00

Today veteran actor Nagesh passed away.

I am a great fan of him. He is such a great comedian whom our industry is going to miss. He is not just a comedian but also a great character artist. Who can ever forget his roles in Thiruvilaiyadal, Magalir Mattum, Server Sundaram, Kadhalika Neram Illai, Namavar and many more.

Today, as I was watching him in the news channel, saw tears in the eyes of Kamal Hassan. This shows what kind of artist we have lost.

I owe this posting for this great legend NAGESH.

May his soul rest in peace.

Click here to read an article from Sify about Nagesh.

A day at Crescent Engg College

2009-01-29T05:17:00.000-08:00

Today I had been to Crescent college of Engg for a training program.

Three things which caught my attention:

1. They had paccka facilities for physically challenged students. They had ramps all over the college, lifts for climbing floors and a separate loo.

2. The lift man was a physically challenged person. It was just 2 floor lift which actually need no operator. I think they wanted to give him a source of income.

3. Their seminar halls- All the seats had foldable writing pads which was hidden under the seat handle. This is such a innovative thing where people can take notes and still does not occupy much space.

But don't ask me about the students... After the program I am totally demotivated and tired :(

Chennai Sangamam

2009-01-23T03:00:00.000-08:00

This month government of Tamilnadua and Tamilmaiyam together conducted Chennai Sangamam. It was a 5 day event. Initially I did not take it seriously and did not bother to go and see it. However wanted to see it.

On the last day, along with my office friends, I went to Chennai Sangamam at Lady Wellington College Grounds, Marina Beach Drive. WOW!!! It was a such a wounderful time.

The day we went Sillambattam was displayed. Have seen all these only in movies and seeing it in person was such a great experience. Also the crowd. It was like seeing a Tiruvizha. Huge huge....... crowd. Most of them with their family. My heart felt very happy to see people with their family together - for a change not in front of television or in theater.

I should also mention about food. This is the main reason I went to Sangammam. They had variety of authentic South Indian (more presiously Tamilnadu) food. Three of us had gone and so we ordered for different variety of food. It was so Yummy.

Then we roamed around and took few snaps and finally with no heart to leave we left the place.

Next year have decided to go on all 5 days...

Someone Who Understands

2008-12-16T22:29:00.000-08:00

I read this in one of the forwarded messages. This story really touched my heart and tears rolled down after I read this...

A store owner was tacking a sign above his door that read: "Puppies For Sale". Signs like that have a way of attracting small children and sure enough, a little boy appeared under the store owner's sign.

"How much are you going to sell the puppies for?" he asked.

The store owner replied, "Anywhere from $30 to $50."

The little boy reached in his pocket and pulled out some change.

"I have $2.37," he said. "Can I please look at them?"

The store owner smiled and whistled and out of the kennel came Lady, who ran out in the aisle of his store followed by five teeny, tiny balls of fur. One puppy was lagging considerably behind.

Immediately the little boy singled out the lagging, limping puppy and said, "What's wrong with that little dog?"

The store owner explained that the veterinarian had examined the little puppy and had discovered it didn't have a hip socket. It would always be lame.

The little boy became excited. "That is the puppy that I want to buy."

The store owner said, "No, you don't want to buy that little dog. If you really want him, I'll just give him to you."

The little boy got quite upset. He looked straight into the store owner's eyes, pointing his finger, and said, "I don't want you to give him to me. That little dog is worth every bit as much as all the other dogs and I'll pay full price. In fact, I'll give you $2.37 now, and 50 cents a month until I have him paid for."

The store owner countered, "You really don't want to buy this little dog. He is never going to be able to run and jump and play with you like the other puppies."

To his surprise, the little boy reached down and rolled up his pant leg to reveal a badly twisted, crippled left leg supported by a big metal brace. He looked up at the store owner and softly replied, "Well, I don't run so well myself, and the little puppy will need someone who understands."

Don't we all need someone who understands?

Life is full of learning

2008-11-18T07:15:00.000-08:00

Past 2 days have been really testing my patients. And I think I am winning it.

These days are really tough and its getting tougher day by day. It is not going the way it has to go. When all these started I really got annoyed and had many a times puts me off. But now I have learnt to control my emotions. I have learnt to accept things. I have learnt to accept life as it comes.

3 N 1

2008-08-18T01:12:00.000-07:00

Three things I don't want to see even in my next 6 lives:

1. Physically/Mentally challenged child - This is time I really curse god.

2. Child labor - Why are these children deprived of their childhood fundas. Life is a hardship and at one stage you start facing this cruel world which continues till your death. Childhood is the only time you enjoy life to the fullest.

3. People at old age homes - They gave us life; they gave us food, clothing and shelter; they taught us good and bad in life; they were there whenever we needed them and when they need us why are they sent to old age homes???

One things I want to keep watching all my life - KID

I love to see them - smile, cry. I just..... love them doing naughty things. I just forget this world and all my worries when they talk in their mazhalai slang - when they walk - when they play - when they fight. I love them the way they are...

WOW - Hashing

2008-07-28T01:25:00.000-07:00

A newly added stuff to my hobbies - HASHING. I have been hashing regularly for the past 3 months and its a great experience.

For those who are hearing this term for the first time - Hash is a community of people, namely Hashers, who have passion for running. They meet every Sunday and they run for beer. (Ofcourse I am interested in the former than the latter.)

We meet every week at various places (mostly at ECR road). For every run, trail (track) would be laid by the hares (who are the leads). We would have to track it and finish the run. For runners it would be about 8-10 kms and for walkers about 6-8 kms. At the end of the run we have circle where people would be made to sit on ice and literally ragged.

Oops I almost missed it. I started this posting to write about yesterday's hashing. It was a novel experience. This time the hash was at Kelambakkam - Vandalur Road. When we started from home it started raining. Knowing Chennai all my life I was so sure that the rain would stop before we reach the place. My guess was right and by the time we reached it stopped. However because of the rain all the trails were washed out. But still we decided to continue the run assuming the hares would guide us. We managed to track the first two trails and then chaos started. All the trails were washed out and the hares could not remember anything.

Believing some one would have good sense of direction we continued our run. After some time we were lost. Then the fun began. It started drizzling, then started raining and finally poured. We could hardly hear what others were saying and could see nothing in front of us. We ran in serpentine - between thorny bushes - on pools of water - dirty grounds (fell couple of times) - around the lake. Finally we managed to find our way back to the cars.

By then we were totally drenched. I had mud all over my body. But still it was such a great experience. It is one of the best hash I have ever done.

What a way to start the day!

2008-07-16T19:01:00.000-07:00

Today as usual my day started and I went for my morning walk. Hardly 5 min walk when a guy, in his bike, came near me n tapped my shoulder. Don't know if had tried to snatch my chain or a rogue. At that moment I really got annoyed and caught him by his shirt. But this did not stop his and he raised his engine to escape. However Idid not leave my grip and started shouting.

At this point I lost my control and fell down. By then another person heard my shouting and tried to stop this guy. He kicked him. Bike walla fell down and started running. People tried to chase him but he managed to escape. However he left his bike on the road.

I was so annoyed that I wanted him to caught, therefore tried calling the police (100). This was even more annoying when I was not able to reach them. Everytime I called 100 line kept disconnecting. I don't understand what kind of emergency service is this.

However an auto fellow went and called the police who were in rounds. They came and started questing us. Some of the questions were so stupid like why didn't you stop him. Finally they took my complain. I came back home.

Couple of things here - Some one can't walk alone in this city and it is difficult for a common man to answer the police.

Filtered Life

2008-07-14T03:27:00.000-07:00

It has been almost 2 weeks now and most of my favourite web sites are blocked in my office. I hate this FortiGuard which keeps blocking websites. Whenever I feel bored and needed a change I visit some of these pages like youtube, orkut etc. I never realised I will miss them all so much. I hate to sit at computer at home but these days have no choice. After returning home I need to spend atleast 30min before the system to check mails and catch up with old friends.

This is so boring :(

My first PODCAST

2008-07-10T04:09:00.000-07:00

Ssssssss.......... Finally I did my first podcast. I had been trying to do my podcast about DASAVATHARAM for a long time. N finally I did it.

Yesterday I took off from office. Had a hectic week and worked over the weekend. So decided to take off. Stayed and home and felt bored. Then decided to utilize this time to create my podcast. I had the script ready long back but never had time to really sit down and record it.

Initially tried recording it in my Zen. But it carried some noise. Then tried windows recorder and again I was not happy with it. Finally did the recording in Audacity. Also tried to mix the sound track from the movie itself.

I think for the first timer I have done a good job. Let me see what you people have to say.

What is happening to me???

2008-07-04T20:19:00.000-07:00

I am not myself or rather this is me when it comes to taking decision. One mind says 'YES' while the other says 'NO'. It is a tough decision to make. It has been almost a week now since I had my normal food, sleep and the most important thing my good time laughter.

Just walking around always thinking about something. Unable to concentrate on things. I hope this gets over soon. I want to be myself back to normal.

Podcast on Dasavatharam

2008-06-17T17:08:00.001-07:00

I am going to watch the movie only today. I just happened to listen to this podcast. It gives the complete picture of the movie. Let me see the movie today, come back and give my review.

An unfamiliar experience

2008-04-26T17:41:00.000-07:00

Last week I went to my sister's Ghravarpavesam to Nagainalor. Its a village in Trichy district. This is the first time I had been to a village. I am glad I did not miss this trip. This is one of the best experience I have felt.

Both my father and mother are from small village Aghragharams. My father have told lot of stories about his native place and I always wanted to see how a aghragharam will look like.

This place, Nagainalor, is about 2 hrs drive from Trichy. When we reached the place I was surprised to know that the entire village is just about a street with 20 houses.

I also came to know that aghragharam starts with Perumal temple and ends with Shivan temple. This aghragharam, next to Shivan temple, had a huge lake. It was about 700 acers. I assumes those days people would take bath and madiya (this is a Tamil slang which mostly Bhramin's alone can understand) will come home.

It was so nice to see houses with not the normal brick roof. All the houses were built in traditional way with thinai in front of the house and mitan inside the house.

Every house had mud pot infront of the house which anybody can use to drink water. They keep refilling it. This water is so chill that we can just forget our refrigerators.

My favourite was the kayathu kattil. Men in the village use this bed for sleeping.

We went to this place during Rama Uschavam. This village had a small Ramar kovil. This festival is for about 15 days. People in this village and near by place will not cook these 15 days. The temple provides food for everybody who walks in. All 4 days we had food in this temple. And the food was very good and tasty.

Every day they start bajans around 5 and it continues till 2 in the night. They had put pandhal to reduce the heat. It was so cool inside this pandhal.

Some good times I had:
Thinai vambu
Pampu set bathing
Kayathu katil sitting
Sleeping in thinai at night
Watching kids playing cricket
Food at ramar temple
Walking barefoot in the street
Listening to ramar bajans

I wish to visit this place once again.

Click here for more pictures.

Height of vettiness...

2008-04-12T07:15:00.000-07:00

Lost Beauty

2008-04-11T05:29:00.000-07:00

By now reading the title and seeing the picture most would have guessed what am I going to write about.

As I was driving, listening to FM, they were discussing about suprem court judgment. Was shocked to now that there are about 30000 illegal hoarding in Chennai. At the same time was very glad to know that most of the hoarding were removed over night (thats too fast for our government).

As I entered the Panagal Park road, saw the first torn hoarding. The whole left side of the road was looking empty. The whole road had Saravana Stores hoardings... now has only iron bars. Same scene in Mount road too.

I felt the real impact in Mount road. The entire stretch looked empty. Mount road seemed to be missing something. Especially in the night when I was driving through Anna flyover, towards GN Chetty road, it was pitch dark. It was then I realised that so far it was the hoarding lights which was showing us the path. The so familiar road looked so different to me.

Those giant hoarding added beauty to the city. All around you. Many times I had felt bad cos I was not able to stare at them cos I drive my car. However I am sure people traveling in bus would have had good time pass when the bus gets struck in the traffic. Now all those are missing.

விளம்பர பலகை இல்லா சென்னை களை இழந்த சென்னை ஆகிவிட்டது.

Tips on Filling Your Vehicles...

2008-03-25T23:02:00.000-07:00

ONLY BUY OR FILL UP YOUR CAR OR BIKE IN THE EARLY MORNING WHEN THE GROUND TEMPERATURE IS STILL COLD. Remember that all service stations have their storage tanks buried below ground. The colder the ground, the denser the fuel, when it gets warmer petrol expands, so buying in the afternoon or in the evening.... your litre is not exactly a litre. In the petroleum business, the specific gravity and the temperature of the petrol, diesel and jet fuel, ethanol and other petroleum products play an important role. A 1degree rise in temperature is a big deal for this business. But the service stations do not have temperature compensation at the pumps.

WHEN YOU'RE FILLING UP, DO NOT SQUEEZE THE TRIGGER OF THE NOZZLE TO A FAST MODE. If you look, you will see that the trigger has three (3) stages: low, middle, and high. In slow mode, you should be pumping on low speed, thereby minimizing the vapours that are created, while you are pumping. All hoses at the pump have a vapour return. If you are pumping on the fast rate, some of the liquid that goes to your tank becomes vapour. Those vapours are being sucked up and back into the underground storage tank so you're getting less worth for your money.

ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT TIPS IS TO FILL UP WHEN YOUR TANK IS HALF FULL. The reason for this is, the more fuel you have in your tank, the less air occupying its empty space. Petrol evaporates faster than you can imagine. Petroleum storage tanks have an internal floating roof. This roof serves as zero clearance between the petrol and the atmosphere, so it minimizes the evaporation. Unlike service stations, here where I work, every truck that we load is temperature compensated, so that every litre is actually the exact amount.

ANOTHER REMINDER, IF THERE IS A FUEL TRUCK PUMPING INTO THE STORAGE TANKS, WHEN YOU STOP TO BUY, DO NOT FILL UP. Most likely the petrol/diesel is being stirred up as the fuel is being delivered, and you might pick up some of the dirt that normally settles on the bottom. Hope, this will help you get the maximum value for your money.

Bread Uppuma

2008-03-24T23:10:00.000-07:00

Bread is only for sick people is what I thought before I left to Singapore.

When I was in Singapore I saw so many varieties in bread. They were very good and tasty too (ofcourse most of them high calorie too ;-)). However they all had western taste in it. When I came back decided to customize (thats techi term) it to Indian taste. And thats how this bread upma came.

Preparation time: 10 min (if you are not too slow in cutting vegetables).
Ingredients: Onion, Capsicum, Chilli powder, Salt, Mustard seeds (kadughu), Asafoetida (perughayam), Oil (1-2 table spoons) and Bread (4-6 slices).

Method:

Chop the vegetables.

Heat oil in a kadai.

Add mustard seeds and asafoetida to it.

Add cut vegetables to it along with chilli powder and salt. Saute it

Add the bread pieces and mix them.

In a minute remove the mixture from heat.

Bread upma is ready to be served.

Holi @ Office

2008-03-22T09:23:00.000-07:00

Today was a good day. Even though morning started with bad mood, as day went by I was ok.

Today I did not bring my breakfast. But sweet of Bhuvs she got me dosas. By lunch time all of a sudden Academy decided to go out for lunch. None had guts to ask boss man. So as usual, spokes person for Academy, I went and asked him to join us for lunch. To our surprise he immediately agreed. And the best part is entire Academy joined for the lunch which is so unusual of it.

It just started with couple of us and finally ended with 17 of us who went to Daba. Good food and very good fun there.

Thats the salad dressing by boss man :)

Then we left back to office. I just picked up a packet of jillabi to my friends. On our way back we went to fruit shop to have some ice creams.

Back in office, it is holi day (not a holiday though). We had some fun with colours. Took pictures of every face.

It was a good day.

The Moon

2008-03-21T01:46:00.000-07:00

As I was about to take my car, saw the sky for a moment. Looked at the moon and WOW. How beautiful was it. Nature - is god's gift to us.

This raised another question in me. When was the last time I lied on my back, looked at the sky and counted the number of stars. Oh boy!!! Just can't remember it.

During my childhood days, I have spent countless nights where I would go to my terrace and just spends hours staring at the dark sky. I loved to watch the moon and count the stars.

Now I hardly go to my terrace. Once in a while, when I go to pick clothes, I look into the sky which brings back good old memories of my childhood days.

I wish those days are back. I wish to spend more time with the nature. I wish...

Two days of fun...

2008-03-20T01:32:00.000-07:00

Had some real good time past two days.

It was Raghu's wedding. Vikram and Swami had come. I was so eager for this day. Took couple of days off from office and whole day was with them. We just roamed around the city. Went from one corner to another. It was total fun. 2 days just flew like 2 seconds.

After a long time I felt very happy and also felt as though I have spent some value time. Vikram too said the same thing. Infact he became bit senti and smsed us saying how happy he felt. Gave him back but did not tell him that I too felt the same :)

It also left some bad feeling...

Just realized the meaning of so near but still so far :-(

எனக்கு பிடித்த வரிகள்

2008-03-20T01:29:00.000-07:00

என்னை தேடி காதல் என்ற வார்த்தை அனுப்பு
உன்னை தேடி வாழ்வில் மொத்த ஆர்த்தும் தருவேன

ேவண்டும் ஒரு ேநசம்

2008-03-08T09:16:00.000-08:00

எந்த எதிர்பார்ப்பும் இல்லாமல்
என் உணர்வுகைள மதித்து
எனக்கு பிடிததைத உணார்து
என்னை மட்டும் ேநசிக்கும் ஒரு ேநசம் ேவண்டும்

என்று சந்திப்ேபன்் அந்த உறவை???

First Impression on Singapore

2008-02-03T02:48:00.000-08:00

As I was travelling in the taxi, from the station to home, it was green everywhere. WOW!!!

This is my first visit to Singapore and what a lovely place. Have heard a lot about the place and it was all true. Nice place... very clean and green.

Also was impressed with the taxi person. Just have to get into the taxi and say the place... and you reach safe.

Public transporation is very good. Nice trains and buses. A beaultiful and nice country to live in.

Quick key strokes from Malaysia

2008-01-28T19:31:00.000-08:00

Right now in Malaysia, in the class room, missing India...

It has been long time since I blogged. Whole of this month was busy preparing for my Malaysia trip and now in Malaysia. No net connection in the hotel. And no time in office because of the classes. Don't have much of time so though will quickly punch few keys in the keyboard.

Its a good trip again. Lot of changes in Malaysia... Climate is hot, people have become more westernized, lot of new malls and many more things. 20 days is a long time in a foreign land. Time is flying but still some time I am missing my friends and family. Just waiting for the day to get back.

Think will come back and key down more details about this good trip.

Management Lessons

2007-12-19T20:51:00.000-08:00

Story # 1

It's a fine sunny day in the forest and a lion is sitting outside his cave, lying lazily in the sun. Along comes a fox, out on a walk.

Fox: "Do you know the time, because my watch is broken"
Lion: "Oh, I can easily fix the watch for you"
Fox: "Hmm... But it's a very complicated mechanism, and your big claws will only destroy it even more."
Lion: "Oh no, give it to me, and it will be fixed"
Fox: "That's ridiculous! Any fool knows that lazy lions with great claws cannot fix complicated watches"
Lion: "Sure they do, give it to me and it will be fixed"

The lion disappears into his cave, and after a while he comes back with the watch which is running perfectly. The fox is impressed, and the lion continues to lie lazily in the sun, looking very pleased with himself.

Soon a wolf comes along and stops to watch the lazy lion in the sun.

Wolf: "Can I come and watch TV tonight with you, because mine is broken"
Lion: "Oh, I can easily fix your TV for you"
Wolf: "You don't expect me to believe such rubbish, do you? There is no way that a lazy lion with big claws can fix a complicated TV.
Lion: "No problem. Do you want to try it?"

The lion goes into his cave, and after a while comes back with a perfectly fixed TV. The wolf goes away happily and amazed.

Scene : Inside the lion's cave. In one corner are half a dozen small and intelligent looking rabbits who are busily doing very complicated work with very detailed instruments. In the other corner lies a huge lion looking very pleased with himself.

Moral : IF YOU WANT TO KNOW WHY A MANAGER IS FAMOUS; LOOK AT THE WORK OF HIS SUBORDINATES.

Management Lesson in the context of the working world : IF YOU WANT TO KNOW WHY SOMEONE UNDESERVED IS PROMOTED; LOOK AT THE WORK OF HIS SUBORDINATES

Story # 2
It's a fine sunny day in the forest and a rabbit is sitting outside his burrow, tippy-tapping on his typewriter. Along comes a fox, out for a walk.

Fox: "What are you working on?"
Rabbit: "My thesis."
Fox: "Hmm... What is it about?"
Rabbit: "Oh, I'm writing about how rabbits eat foxes."
Fox: "That's ridiculous ! Any fool knows that rabbits don't eat foxes!
Rabbit: "Come with me and I'll show you!"

They both disappear into the rabbit's burrow. After few minutes, gnawing on a fox bone, the rabbit returns to his typewriter and resumes typing.

Soon a wolf comes along and stops to watch the hardworking rabbit.
Wolf: "What's that you are writing?"
Rabbit: "I'm doing a thesis on how rabbits eat wolves."
Wolf: "you don't expect to get such rubbish published, do you?"
Rabbit: "No problem. Do you want to see why?"

The rabbit and the wolf go into the burrow and again the rabbit returns by himself, after a few minutes, and goes back to typing.
Finally a bear comes along and asks, "What are you doing?
Rabbit: "I'm doing a thesis on how rabbits eat bears."
Bear: "Well that's absurd !"
Rabbit: "Come into my home and I'll show you"

Scene : As they enter the burrow, the rabbit introduces the bear to the lion.

Moral: IT DOESN'T MATTER HOW SILLY YOUR THESIS TOPIC IS; WHAT MATTERS IS WHOM YOU HAVE AS A SUPERVISOR.

Management Lesson in the context of the working world: IT DOESN'T MATTER HOW BAD YOUR PERFORMANCE IS; WHAT MATTERS IS WHETHER YOUR BOSS LIKES YOU OR NOT

Worst Experience with Vodafone

2007-12-19T08:24:00.000-08:00

Today had a very miserable experience with vodafone.

Don't know how did they even manage to do it... they gave my number to another customer when he migrated from prepaid to post paid.

My sim became inactive couple of days before. When I called the customer care they never bothered to find the real problem instead asked me to visit a vodafone store. Next day couple of my friends caught me online and told me that some one else is picking up my calls. Initially through they made a mistake but few more people told the same thing. So I called my number and a guy picked my call. He informed me that he got this new number from Vodafone store during migration.

Once again I called customer care and intimated them about the problem. They did not bother to even believe me. Finally had to shout at them even to get their attention. My call was then put through to the manager and he promised me to get my number back. This happened yesterday.

Today again no action was taken by them. I made 4 calls to the customer care and every time they put me on hold and then disconnected me. Finally I was forced to visit a store in TTK road. There I proved that my number was given to another person by calling my number again. This guy spoke to Vadapalani center (where this mistake happened). Finally they said they will get it done in 2 hrs.

It was 5:00pm, 3 hrs since I spoke to them, still no action taken. I once again had to call the executive in Vadapalani store and he again argued with me that they have deactivate my account. Once again called the number to prove him it was not done. After few arguments he spoke to another executive to deactivate the number. After 2 hrs they deactivated my number.

Now I have to wait, god only knows how long, to get my number back.

Vodafone cutomer care service is one of the worst services I have ever received.

Now seriously thinking should I continue with Vodafone or change the service. Is a known devil better than an unknown angle.

Marudhanayagam

2007-12-09T02:38:00.000-08:00

A wonderful story

2007-12-06T00:46:00.000-08:00

A woman came out of her house and saw 3 old men with long white beards sitting in her front yard. She did not recognize them. She said "I don't think I know you, but you must be hungry. Please come in and have something to eat."

" Is the man of the house home?", they asked.

"No", she replied. "He's out."

"Then we cannot come in", they replied.

In the evening when her husband came home, she told him what had happened.

"Go tell them I am home and invite them in!"

The woman went out and invited the men in"

" We do not go into a House together," they replied.

"Why is that?" she asked.

One of the old men explained: "His name is Wealth," he said pointing to one of his friends, and said pointing to another one, "He is Success, and I am Love." Then he added, "Now go in and discuss with your husband which one of us you want in your home."

The woman went in and told her husband what was said. Her husband was overjoyed. "How n ice!!", he said. "Since that is the case, let us invite Wealth. Let him come and fill our home with wealth!"

His wife disagreed. "My dear, why don't we invite Success?"

Their daughter was listening from the other corner of the house. She jumped in with her own suggestion: "Would it not be better to invite Love? Our home will then be filled with love!"

"Let us heed our daughter's advice," said the husband to his wife.

"Go out and invite Love to be our guest ."

The woman went out and asked the 3 old men, "Which one of you is Love? Please come in and be our guest."

Love got up and started walking toward the house. The other 2 also got up and followed him. Surprised, t he lady asked Wealth and Success: "I only invited Love, Why are you coming in?"

The old men replied together: "If you had invited Wealth or Success, the other two of us would've stayed out, but since you invited Love, wherever He goes, we go with him. Wherever there is Love, there is also Wealth and Success !!!!!!"

Motta Boss or Mutta Goze

2007-11-30T10:38:00.000-08:00

This is kind of funny, writing review after so many months after its release.

When I was in my morning walk this title just struck me. First of all no hard felling guys. These are just my opinion about the movie.

Just a day before the release all the channels kept flashin about "Rajini Mania" and "Big B vs Boss". Ofcourse its Rajini, Shankar, AVM, Rehman and Thotadharani combination. What else to expect. But felt it bit nauseating to see all channels giving importance to a movie.

I am a Kamal fan but still like to watch Rajini movies for its entertainment. When Sivaji got released I too wanted to watch this movie. But was shocked to hear that the tickets were sold for 2000 Rs. This increased my curiosity to see the movie. Finally got the tickets and went with office friends.

Boy!!! good feast for eyes. Extraordinary job by Thotadharani. AR Rehman music was good. However I did not like all the songs except two.

First half of the movie was sort of ok. Not so good. Did not like the way it was projected. It was neither Rajini's movie nor Shankar's. Felt too cheapo for Rajini. Always have seen him as super star and now suddenly in romantic mood n other stuff... Think did not suite him. Or I did not like him in that role.

Second half was good. It was fast and real Rajini masala stuff. Usual super star rocks. N finally motta boss was good. However I did not like that fight. Too unnatural. I don't expect logic in movies but this one is too much. Totala kadhula poo.

This movie really did not meet my expectations. May be cos of too much expectation. But something was seriously missing. This combination chemistry did not work out. Think it not match the promo given. Felt as though they could have done much better.

Whatever it is... Its a great movie of all Rajini fans and just another movie of others.

Naughty or Daring Monkey???

2007-11-16T18:31:00.000-08:00

I am a Brahmin by birth

2007-10-30T02:10:00.000-07:00

The word Brahmana (hereinafter "Brahmin") means the God, one who knows God, one who has the knowledge of God, one who has the knowledge of Vedas, an intellectual, a priest, a teacher, a professor, a person belonging to Brahmin caste, a superior person, a text related to Vedas, and so on. Accordingly, priests in a mosque, church, a synagogue, a gurudwara etc. are all Brahmins because they are all , obviously, priests. They are also Brahmins because they are supposed to have the knowledge of God. They are also Brahmins because they are intellectuals.

The Brahmins conducted the daily rites, the purification ceremonies, sacrifices and taught the Vedas. Since they were the teachers, preachers and priests they had to be proficient in sacred knowledge through the Vedas. They were to be kind and gentle. For this, they earned certain privileges. They were regarded as the highest class and respected by all, to the extent that they were treated almost like gods by commoners and kings alike.

The belief that people born in Brahmin caste, automatically become Brahmins, is a much later concept in the very ancient land of India. In the pre-Gita period (before the beginning of the Christian era) a Brahmin was a person who had attained highest spiritual knowledge (brahmavidya). This was an extremely difficult path of discipline of body, mind , and intellect, and people irrespective of their birth or class, who dedicated to such an austere life were recognized as Brahmin's.

Initially, a person became a Brahmin on the basis of his knowledge of the Vedas.

A smritis, or code of conduct composed by sage Atri defines brahminhood very clearly.

"By birth, every man is a Shudra (an ignorant person). Through various types of disciplines (samskaras), he becomes a dwija (twice born). Through the studies of scriptures, he becomes a vipra (or a scholar). Through realization of supreme spirit (brahmajnana), he becomes a brahmin"

Note: Hindus consider people in the the top three classes — Brahmins, Kshatriyas, and Vaisyas — "twice born." This has nothing to do with reincarnation; according to Hinduism, everyone gets reincarnated. A person who is "twice born" is born once as a baby and then goes through a ritual to become an adult.

Wake Up

2007-10-29T20:24:00.000-07:00

Audio Blog

2007-10-24T01:14:00.000-07:00

It has been long time since I blogged. I wouldn't lie that I was engrossed in my work but something or other just kept me busy. Then one day I just came across the audio blog of Chinmayi and decided to create my own audio blog.

I love music... Even though I cannot sing a line I just love it. I listen to it when I drive, when I work, when I bath, when I surf, when I play and the list keeps going on. I generally like melody. My favourite is Illayaraja's. I looooveeee listening to very old Tamil songs when I go for long drive.

In my audio blog I will post my favourite songs (if possible with lyrics).

Click here to listen to my tunes Oopss... my favourite tunes.

Orkut tricks

2007-09-08T20:44:00.000-07:00

Before you try anything of this sort, please ensure you know the difference between hacking and cracking.

To know the difference click here.

Some Tricks

1. Changing Orkut Background

If you use firefox you can change the orkut backgroung by using the greasemonkey firefox extension. First install greasemonkey from here and then install Bluekut hack from here

2. Orkut Cute

Orkut cute is a program that let you send scraps to all your friends in orkut. It also alerts you when you receive new scraps send notifications when forums are updated. Orkut cute can be downloaded here.

3. Sorkut Firefox Extension

This is a toolbar to search for the threads with specific words in the title. Just give the commumity id of the community you want to search, enter the search term and click Search.

Sorkut can be downloaded from here.

4. Scraboy

This is a freeware program that let you browse orkut and know when you or your friends receive new scraps. You can add emoticons, colour and formatting to your scraps with ease. Sending scraps from your desktop is also as easy as writing an instant message. Scrapboy can be downloaded from here.

5. Orkut Scrap Helper

This is a cool firefox extension that let you scrap faster by providing messaging options in your own scrapbook page. It also reduces the number of steps to scrap someone who has scrapped you to just one!. Scrap helper can be downloaded from here.

6. Scrapbook Flooding

An Indian dude named Rahul created this Firefox extension for Orkut scrapbook flooding. The extension is compatible with Firefox1.5+ and can be downloaded from here. For more information you can visit Rahul’s weblog here

7. Javascript Hacks

There are some Javascript hacks for Orkut. Like, for flooding scrapbook, Increasing number of fans, testimonial flodding, Invisible names, blank scraps, etc. Some of them do work.

A good compilation can be found here. Try at your own risk.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To learn more visit:
Devil's Workshop
Inside Orkut
Tricks4fun
Wordpress
Askwiki
Shugalin
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To share what you know click here.

Namma Chennai

2007-08-26T23:16:00.000-07:00

Filter Kaapi

Thayir Sadham

Masala Vada

Grand Sweets & Snacks

Krishna Sweets

Shakes & Creams

Ambika Aplam Depot

Saravana Bhavan Sambar Vadai

Ratna Cafe Idly Sambar

Adyar Aavin Parlour

Woodlands

And More …

Mount Road

Spencer Plaza

Central Station

Satyam Theatre

Anna Flyover

Ranganathan Street

Chepauk Stadium

Burma Bazaar

Ritchie Street

Pondy Bazaar

Adyar Bridge

Gandhi Statue

And More …

Ayyapan Temple

Kapaleeshwar Temple

Santhome Church

Anjeneyar Temple @ Nanganallur

Vadapalani Murugan Temple

Madhya Kailash

Ananda Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Sai Baba Temple @ ECR

And More …

MGM

Vandalur Zoo

Egmore Museum

Mount Road Darga

ECR

Flyover Trains

Guindy Race Course

Valluvar Kottam

Mahabalipuram

AVM Studio

And More …

Chennai Tamil ;)

PTC

Hot Hotter Hottest May Masam

And More …

SuperStar IStyle

Kamal's Acting

Vijay's Dance

Maddy 's Smile

Surya's Stud

Vikram's Grace

Illayaraja

A.R.Rahman

ManiRathnam Movies

And More …

The HINDU (FRIDAY FEATURES :) )

EGA Theatre

Pani Puri @ Gangotri

Landmark @ Nungambakkam

Movie Posters

Fruit Shops

Koyambedu Bus Stand

RoadSide Book Shops

And of course …

Marina Beach

Elliots Beach

Thiruvanmiyur Beach

Beach Cricket

Mayajaal

Prathna Beach in Drive

More …

Software Companies @ Old Mahabalipuram Road

Tidal Park

Call Centers

And to add some more …

Loyola

Ethiraj

Stella Maris

MCC

WCC

DG

MOP

Did I Leave Something ????

Who can cover EVERYTHING that our Great Chennai Can offer !!!!

The List Goes On ...

All these is wat it takes to make it

MY CHENNAI

Rather …

NAMMA CHENNAI

Brother Left to US

2007-08-24T04:45:00.000-07:00

I never felt this bad. We always fight with each other - everyday every moment. But When he left to US... I felt as though the whole world is empty. He could have stayed here... he had a good job, he could have done some PG here but still he has gone for better. Now I am just hoping for him to come back and settle in India with us.

Touchy Feeling

2007-07-22T05:25:00.000-07:00

Recently when I was returning from shopping I was very thirsty. Felt like having some drink but not our usual coke or pepsi. I like having a soda (local paneer soda). But did not have change, all hundreds only (for a change I was rich that day ;-). So I decided to go home and satisfy myself with just a glass of cold water. Then I realised I could drop into KVR bakery.

Its one place which is always very close to my heart. When I was in school we use to go there almost every day in a week and have something. We use to dutch our money, rich person Rs 2 and other something like 25-50 paise. He knows us so well and our most fav over there was samosa channa. We use to roll our cycles to the bakery and chat there for a long time and in the mean time have something to munch.

So I went to this place and asked for a soda. Also told him I have only 100s with me (soda would cost me may be Rs 4). He said no probs and with a smile gave me soda. Then he started asking about me and my friends.

It has been 9 yrs but still he remembers us and everytime I go there he would enquire about us and this brings back my good old school memories. It is such a good feeling...

Oops I don't know how to complete this. Just felt like penning down how I felt when he asked about us. But now I have no words to say my feelings... It is just that I am touched :)

Funny

2007-07-06T00:17:00.000-07:00

Footballers

The Crash

GahooYoogle

2007-06-13T02:41:00.000-07:00

Someone has come up with a tool that allows you to use both search engines at the same time. It is called GahooYoogle.

When you type in your related search words, GahooYoogle will give you the results from Google and Yahoo in a split screened frame. What this means, is that you can look at both search engine results at the same time to find out the best and most relevant search find.

However I found a small bug in it. When we click on a link or image on Google in opens in the respective frame. However, when we click on the link in Yahoo, instead of opening in its frame, it open in full screen.

Any way this is an interesting stuff. Try it now.

Sweet Things

2007-04-17T23:18:00.000-07:00

There are many nice things happening around us. So thought I will key down some of them which I felt...

1. Every morning, when I go for my walk, I see an old couple. Very old... He holds her hand and walk slowly. The care he has for her is very sweet.
2. When I wait for Bhuvana, to pick her up, I see a school kid waiting for the school bus. He sings, he struggles to carry his school bag, he holds his lunch bag and every stuff he does is sweet.
3. same time I see another boy walking with his mom, holding her finger. He walks from one side to another side talking to his mom. Chooo...... Chweetttt.....
4. In Radio Mirch when the kid says "Gudz vandi vandhachu.... radhio mirchi.... saamaa hotu machi...". Kids slang is always the nest in the world.

No Internet connection?

2007-04-04T03:48:00.000-07:00

DISCONNECTED? Never mind. Consider it clean-up time

Yes, it happens. Just to remind you of non-google days. Your Internet connection is off. A disconnect somewhere. Between you and the networld. Click, refresh, will the firefox/Explorer icon spring to life? But the distant, virtual world remains that. Distant. Messages travel furiously across the world, while you stay in the dark. You have been de-globalised.

You gripe about the ISP, bandwidth, the guys who fixed the wires, in charge of AMC. Then you blame the "system." You stamp your feet, fist your palm, get disoriented, restless. Actually, there's no need to be. Think. The world is not a matrix you have to be wired to. Creativity has nothing to do with connectivity. Hey, this is opportunity, a no-ball, a wide. Try a different stroke.

1. Take this as clean-up time. Start with the over-flowing recycle bin. Scroll up and start sweeping. No reusable files and may-need-later folders? Empty the garbage dump. Good riddance.

2. Turn your attention to the front screen. Sure, it looks like a colourful salad, but salads don't taste good the next day. How many security centres do you need on the desktop? How many music players? VLC, iTunes, Windows media player, two kinds of Real Player and what's that? The MVI. How many sets of photo(easy)share software did you download for free? Thinking of free, do you have those Skype set-ups too? Now, keep the latest and remove the rest. Stash what you need in the control panel, safely out of sight. (Tip: How about Important URLs?) Stuff on the desktop, they say, slows down booting.

3. Categorise files for easy access. PDF, GIF, WINZIP... My Documents will be happy to store them. Drag visuals into My Pictures. Axe mercilessly. At home, we throw away anything that has not been used for three months. Good idea.

4. Give the Bookmarks drop-box a critical look. A desperate collection, right? Go in for group therapy. Arrange them in clusters under titles. Delete those you clicked in for research. The information may be outdated.

5. Look down at the keyboard - that receptacle of all that's liquid, solid and dirty. Ever tried to invert it and give it a gentle tap? This is the best time. Only be ready for the "treasure" you may find. Use a brush. People have retrieved bugs and long-lost bills. Who knows what YOU will find?

6. Are you the hands-on type? Unplug the computer. Pry loose the cover. Use a long-handled soft brush to detox the box. It's mind-boggling how much dust this little machine can collect. Enough for several bouts of cold. If you have a dog or a cat, enough fur for a coat. Cockroaches could be non-paying occupants. Maybe you could use a vacuum cleaner to blow out the muck. Whatever you do, use a surgical mask, er, tie a handkerchief around nose and mouth.

7. Mmm... disk space retrieved, workstation airbrushed. Better defrag maybe? With a sense of pride, plug the computer back. No connection yet? Fine. Run an offline maintenance programme. It's bonus time. Write your blog post. On something offbeat.

8. Geek friends suggest starting a password book. Note down all that you have committed to memory — logins, passwords and codes for virtual doors — to open sites, e-mails, whatever. How safe this is, you need to decide.

10. Time to catch the creative bus. Use Word. Write a short story — Life in the Internet-free Lane. Add original visuals with Powerpoint or Photoshop. Got a Math angle? Solve equations, prove theorems. Dig out more roots for pi. Compose music. Try re-mixing. Give "Guru" a different ending. Craft solutions for Chennai's traffic/noise problem. Plan how to reduce CO2 emissions and win $2 billion from Richard Branson. Play Solitaire.

Open Excel. Make simple crossword puzzles. Print and pass on to kids in the nearest corporation school. Write an article/letter for the newspaper, design a website, put together a slideshow of your family photographs. What you can do offline is limited only by your imagination.

Or simply step outside. Talk to family. Get a life! Read a book, watch a movie. And ha, dump the cellphone for a stroll on the beach. Stay detached, disengaged and free from karma. Even temporarily.

GEETA PADMANABHAN

© Copyright 2000 - 2006 The Hindu

My Personality

2007-03-15T05:32:00.000-07:00

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

Just to say HI!!!

2007-03-10T02:28:00.000-08:00

It has been ages since I scrapped my page. So though I will scrap atleast 2 lines to say hi.

Life was too busy. Loads of work these days. Went to Malaysia on an official trip. It was one of the best trips. Malaysia is not a new place for me. Have been there before. However this trip was different. Lot of learning. Been with Asokan... I know him for past two and half years but still every time i learn new things from him. Every time I admire his... wht to say. This time I was astonished to see how he looks at big picture. Never in my life I can do that.. but trying to learn it. I think I must also start thinking in his way. Bit difficult for me... but will try.

Another thing I learnt in this trip is how important it is tobond. This is something about which i never bothered about. I always though if people need me let them come to me. I don't want any thing from others. But this is not true. We r so dependent on other (atleast in official life) so it is important to bond with every individual. We will never know when we will have to meet them again.

Well wrote enough about my learnings. Well had lot of fun also. This time did not have problem for my food. Nice Indian food every day. Pavam many times Asokan had to give his non-veg food for my sake... cos he had to come with me to have veg food.

The highlight was last day when Prasadh took us to Bantu caves. So sweet of him to come all the way from office n then took us to the caves... just cos I wanted to see the place.

I though I will pen down few lines now I wrote too many paragraphs. Any way.... again it was a good trip.

Best Interview

2007-01-14T03:41:00.000-08:00

I was driving n suddenly the mobile started whistling. The call was from Viju. I picked up the call n she asked me if i had my resume ready. "My boss asking my resume.... why?" She then explained that Accenture people are going to test their interview skills n need scape goat for that ;-)... Well not really scape goat... candidates to test their skills. I readily agreed cos i am always interested in such stuff.

Went to office n got my resume ready n went to the place. Two members (one smart guy n other a lady) were ready to interview me. I though it will start with the usual question "Tell me about urself"... he started off asking me about my work. I explained.... i was actually not prepared for this interview cos it was too short notice. So i could not organize my thoughts n words were just flowing out of my mouth. Then he asked me about my role i play in my office. Its was bit confusing for them cos it is too diff to exactly explain wht i am doing. But i think they sort of understood my role. Then they moved into my career plan n slowly moved into asking abt my family. Interview lasted for about 1hr n then they asked me to wait to give me feedback.

During the course of the interview i was totally impressed with that guy. Not because he was handsome but cos of his skills. the lady hardly asked me any questions but this guy was too good. His questions were very different n simple. Also the questions were very smart.

After 10min they called me back. He started with his feedback. He said I am a very open person. I was surprised cos thats me. He continued and every word surprised me. He had read me like a book. Actually i am very easy to be read but still in 1hrs time..... found it surprised.

Lot of praises especially about my positive attitude and my body language. Two suggestions were given... one about my assertiveness which i have already realized and have started working on. N other was about my definition of boss. I said boss should be both technically strong n with good managerial skills. However he said it is difficult to find boss man who is strong in subject n said most bosses have only good managerial skills. I realized that he was right. After the feedback session, i straight away told him that he was right in guessing about me.

I have been through many interviews n i never realized that the could read us this easily. But this interview totally changed things. These HR people are too good. It is not a easy thing to fake things to these smart HRs. All they are looking at is just ur attitude. If it is good they will find the right job for u. You could have gone for one particular posting but if they find u r best suited for another, they would fit you into that.

This is the best interview I have ever attended. 1hr just flew like few minutes. Lot of learnings from this interview session. Now i know where i have to work on n where i am good at. Infact this interview session gave me lot of confidence in myself n this came in at the right time.

Memories

2007-01-08T21:03:00.000-08:00

After so many months this feeling came to me once again. This is one feeling I like (even though its a pain). However I don't want this. I am trying to get over things (never know when it will happen). I always wanted to talk about this but still don't want to talk about it.

Suddenly today my people pushed me into this once again. My colleagues talked about it. I got a call from a friend and she talked about it. N the worst part is I got this special call which never mentioned a word about it.

This thought was always there in one corner of my mind. I am struggling to push it deep into dark. But today it once again came out. In the past few months I never felt this hard. I felt like sitting in one corner and crying but forced myself not to. I have promised myself that I will never cry for this. However all my past memories started flowing in. Good n bad... hmm... don't know what to write here. Its very difficult to pen down feelings.

Now I am wondering how long it is going to take me to once again push it back. Why do people have to do this to me??? I know they were trying to do something good to me. But I know this will never happen. Things have never worked out the way I wanted it to.

I am not getting into that verecthi mode. This is just part of life n it happens to everyone. I very well understand this. However it is not easy to accept the truth.

I think only time can heal the pain...

Vandaloor Zoo

2007-01-01T03:31:00.000-08:00

Vandaloor Zoo is located in Chennai, about 26kms from the city. This is a wonderful place which every kid would love to visit. You name an animal and you could see it here. There are about 92 different animals present.

During the winter holidays I took the kids to this place. It was such a good place. One thing I liked about this place is that animals were not placed at the cage (except few). Most of them were allowed to roam in their natural environment (ofcourse proper safety measure were taken).

It is about 3kms inside the zoo. The entry fee is 15 for adult and 10 for kids. You can either walk inside or take a train. Train would cost again 13 for adult and 7 for kids.

In train you just need 1 and half hour to look at the entire zoo. They have about 5 stops and at each stop they would give you about 5-10 min to look at the animals. However we did not take train n walked as we decided to spend more time at each place. It took us almost 6hrs to cover the entire place. And the walking really killed us, but the kids were full of energy.

By the time we came out it was 3:30. Kids wanted to see the lion face to face so we decided to try safari. But it was full n the last van is at 4:00. After pleading the guy literally after begging him we managed to get tickets. The van could accommodate about 12ppl but he took almost 20 in. It was too crowded but still we wanted to continue n belive me it was worth it.

We saw the lion and lioness face-to-face. Kids were thrilled n we managed to take few pictures. We were glad that we did not miss this.

For those who are planning to visit this place

Location: Vandaloor (about 26kms from city)
Timing: Opens at 9:00am
Holiday: Tuesday
Cost: Entry - Adult 15, kids 10. Train - Adult 12, kids 7. Safari - Adult 15, kids 7.
Food: There is just one hotel at the entrance but you would not get variety there. Breakfast will have nothing so it is advisable to carry breakfast n lunch. It will be a wonderful experience to sit inside b/w animals and eat ur lunch. (However don't carry plastics. It is not allowed inside.) You could try this hotel for ur evening snacks.
Water: Good water facilities is available. Tanks are placed everywhere. However if ur too particular about water, carry mineral water bottles.
Snacks: Nothing much inside except one ice cream bar.
Very Important: Please book for train and safari as soon as u enter the zoo. Otherwise it will get filled up.

My Life Rate

2006-12-22T07:10:00.001-08:00

This Is My Life, Rated
Life:	7.7
Mind:	7.5
Body:	7.7
Spirit:	7.9
Friends/Family:	5
Love:	2.9
Finance:	8
Take the Rate My Life Quiz

I'm a O7-C52-E83-A32-N18 Big Five!!

Steve Irwin

2006-12-16T06:35:00.000-08:00

Steve Irwin popularly known as "The Crocodile Hunter" was born in Australia in 1962 to parents Lyn and Bob Irwin, who were animal naturalists. Steve married fellow naturalist, Terri Irwin (Baines) in 1992. They had one daughter, Bindi Sue Irwin, who was born July 24, 1998. He died in September 2006 following an attack by a stingray, off the Great Barrier Reef.

Comebacks

2006-12-06T07:39:00.000-08:00

I want to give myself to you.
...sorry, I don't accept cheap gifts.

-------

I'd go through anything for you.
...let's start with your bank account.

-------

Your body is like a temple.
...sorry, there are no services today.

-------

Your place or mine?
...both. You go to your place and I'll go to mine.

-------

May I hold your hand?
No thanks, it isn't heavy.

-------

If we become engaged will you give me a ring??
Sure, what's your phone number??

-------

Darling, I want to dance like this forever.
Don't you ever want to improve??

-------

I love you and I could die for you!
How soon??

-------
Have you ever had a hot passionate, burning kiss??
I did once. He'd forgotten to take the cigarette out of his mouth.

-------

"...And are you sure you love me and no one else ?"
"Dead Sure! I checked the whole list again yesterday".

Smile

2006-12-05T06:24:00.001-08:00

My Hero - Universal Hero

2006-11-25T23:56:00.000-08:00

Dakshin Chitra

2006-10-28T03:51:00.000-07:00

Last week I took one of our Australian client to Dakshin chitra and it is the first time I also visited this place. It was mild blowing.

This is a must visit place for everyone especially all Indians. In this fast world where we use machines for everthing n play games on computers no time to even think about our past, it is a good effort for these people to build such a wounderful place.

It talks about how the houses, untensiles, work and everything else was in the past. You can have a look at Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andra Pradesh houses (even in TN how the house of a weaver looks, how different is a bhramin house etc.) Also they allow you to make pots and grind rice (at a cost of Rs. 10/head). They also put beautiful mahendi work on hands. You can also see kili josiam, kairegai josium, pupet show, n those olden days bio scope movie. You can find lot of shops inside where you can buy many things like bangle, ear ring, wall hanging, mat, toys like bambaram etc.

Location: ECR Road, Chennai (About 20-25 kms from the city)
Landmark: Next to MGM (10km from the toll free)
Holiday: Tuesday

Even food is available inside. Also many other hotels in the near by visinity (in about 5kms distance). It is advisable to carry water as it would take about 2-3hrs inside to have a look at everything.

Click here for more information

Pictures

Flash Work

2006-09-08T12:30:00.000-07:00

Creative Advertisement

2006-09-01T02:15:00.000-07:00

Best advertisements I have ever seen

This is Creativity

2006-09-01T01:52:00.000-07:00

I have no words do describe this act

Unspoken Expectations

2006-08-29T23:34:00.000-07:00

There was something unusal about her. She is very calm today. When people had fun around her she just gave a sarcastic smile and continued with her work.

Usually Vijaya is full of energy, very talkative, cracking jokes and always laughing. Some thaught she is unwell. However her close friends realised that something is bothering her but did not dare to ask her. When she is in bad mood nobody dares to speak to her.

Her friend, Viji, took the initiative to ask her what was bothering her. "Nothing at all. I did too much of exercise and cos of which I am feeling very sleepy today " she said. But Viji knew that it is a lie.

"Why didn't you come to the party yesterday?" Viji asked.

"Well I was in gym yesterday. And did not feel like coming, thats why", Vijaya answered.

"Another lie", Viji taught. However she did not ask anything more. She was woundring what was really bothering her.

"When I called you for the party you refused to come whereas when he called you, you went to the party" Vijaya thaught.

Everybody has expectation. However most of them are unspoken....

Reverse Life Cycle

2006-08-29T04:01:00.000-07:00

I love kids and I like puppies. This is one of my most favourite photo.

When we are kiddos we think "I wish I were adult". Adults think "I wish to have stayed as a kid".

What if our life cycle is reversed.

We start old with not good health. We suffer from pain and disease.

Now get into middle age where we earn our bread. Face this bad world - fight with our boss - get stressed - long for weekends - wish to spend some time with family - hate this horrible traffic.

Then we get into our teenage - carefree phase of life - spend parents money - flirt with people - go out for movies - be the most outstanding (standing out of the class most of the time) student - pray god to pass in our semister exam.

Latter get into school - pushing the cycle home as the other friend is walking - bunk classess to participate in sport day and culturals - wait for that one day PT period - wait for the summer vacation - curse the boring days where friends would have gone out to their grandparents house - smelling the fresh book when the school reopens - playing out in hot sun.

Finally become a kid where there is some one to take care of us - talk whatever we feel like talking - do all nonsence but still people would say "chooo..... schweeet....." - mom feeding us - no work - no stress - nothing to worry about - no lies - no need to please people.

I am wishing for something which is not possible but still love to imagin things.

A beautiful Story

2006-08-29T03:53:00.000-07:00

Young King Arthur was ambushed and imprisoned by the monarch of a neighboring kingdom.

The monarch could have killed him but was moved by Arthur's youth and ideals.

So, the monarch offered him his freedom, as long as he could answer a very difficult question.

Arthur would have a year to figure out the answer and,

If after a year, he still had no answer, he would be put to death.

The question was: What do women really want?

Such a question would perplex even the most knowledgeable man,

And to young Arthur, it seemed an impossible query.

But, since it was better than death,

He accepted the monarch's proposition to have an answer by year's end.

He returned to his kingdom and began to poll everyone:

The princess, the priests, the wise men, and even the court

jester.

He spoke with everyone, but no one could give him a satisfactory answer.

Many people advised him to consult the old witch,

For only she would have the answer.

But the price would be high as the witch was famous through out the kingdom for the exorbitant prices she charged.

The last day of the year arrived and Arthur had no choice but to talk to the witch.

She agreed to answer the question, but he would have to agree to her price first.

The old witch wanted to marry Sir Lancelot,

The most noble of the Knights of the Round Table,

And Arthur's closest friend!

Young Arthur was horrified.

She was hunch-backed and hideous, had only one tooth,

Smelled like sewage, made obscene noises, etc.

He had never encountered such a repugnant creature in all his life.

He refused to force his friend to marry her and

endure such a terrible burden,

But Lancelot, having learnt of the proposal, spoke with Arthur.

He said nothing was too big of a sacrifice compared to Arthur's life.

And the preservation of the Round Table.

Hence, a wedding was proclaimed and the witch answered.

Arthur's question thus: "What a woman really wants?"

She said, "Is to be in charge of her own life."

Everyone in the kingdom instantly knew that the witch had uttered a great truth.

And that Arthur's life would be spared.

And so it was.

The neighboring monarch granted Arthur his freedom.

And Lancelot and the witch had a wonderful wedding.

The honeymoon hour approached and,

Lancelot, steeling himself for a horrific experience, entered the bedroom.

But, what a sight awaited him.

The most beautiful woman he had ever seen lay before him on the

bed.

The astounded Lancelot asked what had happened.

The beauty replied that since he had been so kind to her when she appeared as a witch,

She would henceforth be her horrible and deformed self only half the time.

And the beautiful maiden the other half.

"Which would you prefer? She asked him.

"Beautiful during the day ... or at night?"

Lancelot pondered the predicament.

During the day he could have a beautiful woman to show off to his friends,

But at night, in the privacy of his castle, an old witch!

Or,

Would he prefer having a hideous witch during the day?

But by night a beautiful woman for him to enjoy wondrous, intimate moments with?

(If you are a man reading this...) What would YOUR choice be?

(If you are a woman reading thisï¿½) What would YOUR MAN'S choice be?

Noble Lancelot, knowing the answer the witch gave Arthur to his question,

He said that he would allow HER to make the choice herself.

Upon hearing this, she announced that she would be beautiful all the time.

Because, he had respected her enough to let her be in charge of her own life.

Now... what is the moral to this story?

The moral is...

1) There is witch in every woman no matter how beautiful she is!

2) If you don't let a woman have her own way, things are going to get ugly.

So, always remember:

IT'S EITHER "HER WAY" OR IT'S "NO WAY" !!!

The First Step

2006-08-29T02:30:00.000-07:00

Too many things on my table and I don't know where to start. So I just decided to orkut for sometime and found this blogger site at one of my friend's profile.

Have heard of this jarggon "Blog" many time, however never took any initiative to really have a look at it.

Any way this would be my first step - "That's one small step for bloggers, one giant leap for Vidhya" ;-).

I never attempted to blog cos I am not a great writer. I don't have flarry language. I don't have creative thinking. But now this is not gonna stop me now. Henceforth I am going to pen down ... oops key down my thoughts.