Happy 2nd birthday Kyra

My little darling Kyra turned 2 yesterday and it has been an swashbuckling year ..Wow time just flies by.  She has grown into the most naughtiest and cutest girl I have ever known.. Since she has started talking , she hums songs and has own playlist on YouTube. She also dances to the beat of some of new songs.  She has an crazy new acts everyday, making faces, pretending to cry,imaginary pigeon friend taking stuff from her. She enjoys her motorbike riders with me and car rides with Mom but the golden rule is to sing songs along with way.She also loves water and once she is in the pool it is very difficult to pull her out.Recently she has started reading storybooks and has collection of them. Last week she watched Mumbai marathon on television and from that day the drawing room is converted into a running track and she practices running everyday.

She has also  mastered the art of throwing herself on the ground, playing with food , hitting for attention,. She ensures that we don't sleep when she wakes up early and wakes up when we are planning to take rest..All traits of terrible two and i guess it is just the beginning.

But for me the best part is being woken up by her lovely smile calling out Papa or the hug i get from her when i pick her up from the daycare or impromptu kiss. 

Birthday mood

Your smile can light up the room
Your hug can make all worries disappear
Your energy is contagious
You make me complete..I love you Kyra 

Similar to last year birthday celebration with kids from orphanage in Mumbai, this year we celebrated with kids from orphanage in Kolhapur where Kyra shared her gifts with all of them

Family celebration

Birthday celebrations

TCS Mumbai cricket team wins prestigious 20-20 Inter Tata-B tournament 2016

This last week has been an memorable journey in my cricket career. I have been playing this game for the last 20 years but winning the prestigious Inter Tata tournament and to lift the trophy as captain ( was captain for one of the match out of 5 played) was a completely different high. This was an incredible win and the feeling as not yet sunk in yet. I had not played much cricket in last 2 years since Kyra was born and was not sure if i was physically and mentally fit to play. So this season was like starting as a new comer. But it was the team who supported me throughout this season.

I want specially thank Pritam, captain of our team and other seniors Ameya, Amar,Kiran, Prasad,Sankara, Mayank who were pillars of support throughout the tournament.  Not to forget my office team who adjusted based on my availability. But then i can't thank Deepa( my wife) enough who supported me to play again and took care of my baby duties during this week..

Pritam and me receiving the Winner Trophy

Individual Trophy

Our Journey:
15 different team from all India from various Tata companies had come to Mumbai to play this tournament. We had to play 5 consecutive days and also manage our office work post the match.

Match 1 : TCS vs Trent
We lost the toss and were put into bat. We started slowly but then with great batting effort from Rahul Amonkar - 45(38), Manish Telge  33(32) and quickfire 47 (14) by Tandel , we made 182/4 in 20 overs. We bowled out Trent on 117 winning by 65 runs. Everyone bowled well but Pritam was pick of the bowlers with picking up figures of 4-1-6-4 .  I bowled well with figures of 4-1-15-1. The MoM was Pinkesh Tandel

Match 2: TCS vs Tata International
We won the toss and elected to bat. Our openers could not keep the momentum and there were few runouts which put additional pressure. Nikhil Kotain  48(41) guided the innings and well supported by Pritam  20(10) which helped us to put up an score of 143/8.  Anurag  then finished the top order with figures of 4-0-15-4  well supported by Ali 4-0-32-3 and me 4-0-18-2. We bowled them out for 90 winning by 53 runs. Anurag was awarded the MoM.

Match 3- TCS vs Tata Motors Jamshedpur
Now since only 1 team from each group moves to the semis, this was an virtual quarter final and must win match for us. Also since Pritam was injured i was entrusted the task to captain the team. Huge responsibility and additional pressure in a must win match to move to the semis.Our opener Prasad M 47(37) played a good innings and then with Pinesh another quick fire 45(20) in the end helped us reach a score of 149/4.  Anurag then again blasted through the top order with figures of 4-0-18-3 and again supported by another pacer Jairam 4-0-23-4 who was brought in place of Pritam. I bowled well with figures of 3-0-20-1. We bowled them out for 122 winning by 27 runs. Pinkesh was again awareded the MoM.

Match 4 - Semi Final - TCS vs TML Drive lines
Pritam was fit to play and looking at the green Elf vengserkar wicket which would support fast bowlers, with an heavy heart i discussed with Pritam and decided to sit out on this match. We lost the toss and put into bat. It was a good toss to lose. The openers Rahul Amonkar 39 (28) & Prasad 85 (50) demolished the oposition bowling and then Pinkesh played another cameo of 39 (13) to provide an mammoth target of 205/3 to chase. Vikrant Khot came to the party bowling really well  4-1-20-2 and again Ali spinning his way 4-0-18-3 restricted the oppostion  to 135/7 winning by 70 runs securing our place in the finals. Prasad was the MoM for a brilliant knock of 85.

Match 5- Finals - TCS v Titan
We had lots of discussion on the team composition and then it was decided to bring me back into the team. The match was on Karnataka pitch, Cross maidan, the same ground where we had lost the finals for same tournament few years back. Also we had lost this tournament twice in finals in last 12 years and we were winner trophy less for the last 4 years now.We felt like South African team, chokers who won all league matches and always lost in semis or finals. We had to win this match. It was long due.
TCS won the toss and elected to bat first. With 50/4 in 10 overs , Rahul Amonkar steadied the innings with 26 ( 29) along with Ravi Banda  27 (24). Pritam steadied the middle overs with 16 (18)  but then came our demolition man Pinkesh 35 (18) supported by Ali 11 (07) helped us reach a defendable score of 149/7.
Titan started the innings very well and had good opening partnership 67 runs in 9 overs. Then Ali spinned the opposition with figures of 4-1-12-3. I bowled decent and restricted the batsman in middle overs with  figures of 3-0-30-0.  Rahul Amonkar 1-0-3-0 bowled well but got injured and all got down to the last over which required 16 runs to win. Pritam  was entrusted with the last over who finished with figures of 4-0-29-1. His last over details are
16 runs needed -1st Ball - 6 runs
10 runs needed -2nd ball - wicket
10 runs needed -3rd ball - 1 run
 9 runs needed -4th ball - 4 runs
5 runs needed -5th ball - 2 runs
3 runs  needed -6th ball - Dot
TCS won the match by 2 runs. This was a well fought  but in the end team TCS was the deserved winner.  We played consistently and improved with every game. Each team member contributed when it was needed and was great  team performance. Pinkesh was awarded the Man of series trophy.

Winning Team

Team - In whites only.
Standing (L-R) - Rahul Suryavanshi, Santosh Asbe, Ameya Vanjari, Pinkesh Tandel, Vikrant Khot, Amar Bhat, Anurag Singh, Saurabh Nikam, Ravi Banda, Prasad Mhadnak
Sitting ( L-R) - Apurva Sawle, Pritam Singh Mathura, Nikhil Kotain, Ali Azgar, Aman, Rahul Amonkar, Manish Telge, Roshan, Velraj

Home.. It is the place where journey begins

Its been 15 years since i moved to this city of dreams ..did my masters from one of the top institutes , joined one of the biggest IT companies, got married to Deepa and then Kyra joined the family.. I got everything here.. The only thing was missing was to have a home in this city of dreams .
In this 15 years have been staying on rent and  changed places 8 times. Was trying to buy a home but the increase in prices was always more than the salary i used to get. After marriage , Deepa and I  searched for an abode and saw almost more than 100 odd places but nothing as per what we wanted. We also made some wrong choices in finding a place which again pushed back our search.
Our search atlast ended last month and happy to announce that we booked a flat in Mayfair Hillcrest in Vikhorli and took possession this week. Thanks to our families and friends who have supported us in our journey. It was possible because of you.

Now the journey begins.

My Baby's Diaries - Episode 1

Well have been thinking a lot about starting to write again . It was always on the back of mind to write something for you -  Kyra ( today almost 18 months) that one day you would be able read about how you have made a wonderful difference by being part of our lives.

Well today's blog is about before you were born. Your Mom and me had been married for 3 years and were discussing whether we were ready to have an additional member to our family. There was always this pressure from family and friends  and also our age was catching up on us. Your Mom and me discussed this a lot. We would have never been ready and found reasons not to start a family. 

One fine day in March, we decided  and that we would also make sure that we were physically able to bring a life into this world. We had ourselves checked if we would be able to have an child. I would like to thank this Dr Sinha  in Sandeep Sarovar who help us through this period. I used to call her Pagli cause she was quite eccentric in her methods. She guided us.  It took us couple of months to understand and with some false alarms, we finally confirmed that your Mom was pregnant in 1st week of June.

It was one of the happiest moment of our lives. We were also in between houses so had to take special care during the shifting. Your Grandparents were so happy when we informed them. We started making plans about how to make it easy for you to enter this world and to be frank that department was with your Mom. She did everything right. Read books, watched videos, joined online forums, ate the right things. She was like on a mission.  I was a bystander trying to facilitate and ensure she gets everything she wants. She had dry fruits, fruits, proteins, vitamins,etc in her daily food so that you get it. The most fruit she ate was pomegranate and then the evening Paan we used to have. We used to try to have evening walks. But you know your dad na.. he is a lazy bum.

Now when we did the first sonography and saw you for the first time, we were happy but really could not see you properly till the doctor pointed it out. The later sonography  in 5th, 8th months were clear and could see your head, hand, legs etc. I think we have the video of the 1st sonograph and pictures of the rest of them. Only regret is i could not be there for 1 of the doctor visit during the 9 months months.  You were one of the healthy babies and grew properly during the 9 months you were in the womb. Kudos again to your Mom to eat healthy and the right stuff.

Your Mom had recently taken up this new job before she got pregnant so she did not have any vacation days . She was too sick in initial 3 months and was weak but still managed to go to office in most of the days. It was a travel of almost 90 min one way. But your Mom has always been a fighter. She went to office till January 2014 almost till the 9th month started. She completed all the work she had and yes she was in one of the most difficult projects. But some of the team supported her throughout. Our driver made sure your rides were comfortable during that period and our cook ensured that your Mom had the right food. 

For me also was not an easy period. I was travelling a lot and also there was reorg in office. Also i was working on a huge deal  which was running in parallel. At the same time we had a robbery in our home ( you might have listened to the story from me before you read this). So there was police and court rounds to be done. So there was too much on our plate.

 During November you had your first motorbike ride, ya ya.. I bought my Thunderbird 500 in November and took your Mom for a small ride.

January was the month we were waiting for. Due date was on 24 Jan but it used to move around after each doctor check up. Your Aai ( grandma) came to stay with us to support your Mom in mid Jan.   Till now we did not knew if you were a boy or a girl. I did not have any specific preference nor did your Mom. We had our bags ready for any emergency.The tension had started after mid Jan.

... to be continued dear...

Happy Birthday Kyra!!

As i was scanning through my Facebook timeline during December end, i started seeing these Thank You messages for the year 2014. It was  interesting and i wanted to go an create mine own but then i decided to wait as it has been one of the most important year in my life and facebook can't express my feeling. I planned to publish this on  Kyra’s birthday.

On January 27, 2014 , i was blessed with a wonderful gift, my princess Kyra who brought such warmth and love into my life.

I remember the day when after 16 hours of labor and sleepless night, Deepa and I took the decision to have a C-section and bring this bundle of joy to life. I was there with Deepa, holding her hand when the doctor delivered the baby and said it’s a girl. I gripped Deepa’s hand and smiled at her. I took my Princess and I held her. She was so tiny and small .She was unable to open her eyes. It was an unbelievable experience.

As she grew up, each day was a new day. We learnt something new about baby habits , how they behave and how we should react.  My baby turns 1 year old today and want to dedicate some lines to her

How time flies by
It was just yesterday

And now a year has passed by 

When i held you for the first time
You could fit in my palm

Now you hold my hand to walk

Everyday I come home

And cuddle you in my arms

I forget all my worries

When I play and dance with you

I am on top of the world

Completely carefree

When I am not with you

There is never a moment

That I don’t miss you

Love you always -- Papa !!

Amazing Passport Seva experience- Passport process done in 48 hours

I had to apply for a fresh passport for my 1 year old daughter and renew passport of my wife.  Now those who have gone through the pain earlier of applying a passport and till they receive it after police verification, understand the predicament I was in since it involve time and money to compete the process.

I had heard about the passport seva Kendra which is run by TCS. Had heard good/bad experiences but in my scenario, I stay in a rented apartment and there are limited address proof which we can submit. Also police verification had given me trouble during my passport application 5 years back.

With this task in hand, Deepa and I started planning for the application. We listed out all the documents from the website and read through many blogs. We also spoke to few friends who had recently got their passport and understood the process.  We then documented all the documents which we could bring and started arranging for them. We also decided to apply in the Tatkal category which expedites the passport application.

We got the following documents ready for both applications.

1)      Bank passbook with new address (Only PSU Banks allowed)

2)      Rental agreement ( we did not have the original)

3)      Company Letter

4)      IT return

5)      Marriage certificate

6)      Our passports

7)      PAN card/Aadhar card/Driving License

Now we need to submit only 1 document as address proof, but then knowing how our system works we made sure we have enough backup documents.

We then took appointment for Wednesday 1130 am . We reached there around 11am. Since we were with 1 year old kid they allowed 1 parent to go inside and sit. At exact 1130 reporting time, we were allowed to go inside and directed towards the Tatkal counter. Here the TCS team verified the documents, asked for more details and arranged the documents. Some of the documents were not photocopied properly so we got them done inside the premise ( this is time saver). We gave only the passbook, marriage certificate and passport copies here.

Since we had a tatkal application, we had to go the APO first to get details of our file first and then token would be issued. So we had to wait till 1200pm to get the APO verification. Till then it was lunch time for my kid so there was a Child care available. Once the APO provided the Go ahead , we went back to the original counter and our tokens were issued.

Now there are 3 counter A  for Application processing, B for Verification and C for Confirmation. At A counter, TCS associates are there and at Counter B&C  government officials are present. There are almost 20 A counter, 6 B Counters and 4 C counters.

Deepa token was called and we were greeted with a pleasant greeting and asked for all the documents arranged by the person on the token counter. Her photo was clicked, the details on the application were verified by using a dual screen. Also all the documents were scanned and her work was over in 5 minutes.  Since Deepa’s details had to be added to Kyra passport, we had to wait for 10 minutes. Meanwhile I worked on Kyra application at the A counter, Deepa already had her number called for the B counter. Meanwhile they took Kyra thumb impression and her application was also done by  1pm.

At the B counter, more documents were asked from Deepa and then she shared the rental agreement.  She was again sent back to A counter for scanning  the documents. After scan she was again required to go to the B counter. All the tokens were automated and transferred based on system logic written. Just after B counter application was done, Kyra was called to another B counter.  Due some difference in names, we had to show Deepa License and marriage certification again. But then people at the B counter were helpful and nice. We completed the B counter process by 1320pm.

Now both the applications went to APO office for some verifications. Deepa was then directed toward C counter to complete the process. By then Kyra was asked to go meet the APO, but then he saw the documents and cleared the application and Kyra was not even required to go the C counter.

From there we went to the exit to collect the final application acknowledgement and it was 1330pm  ( just before the official lunch time).  And the best part which was written on the form that Police verification was not required for both the application. ( This was a great relief as we know how the police verification happens and how applications get stuck) . The whole process was completed in 2 hours flat.

As we left Deepa was still saying that we might still face some issues but I was confident  that we will not face any issues. By the time we reached home, we got an SMS stating the passport is being printed. By evening we got an SMS stating the passport has been printed. Next day we got an SMS that Passport has  been dispatched along with the tracking number. We thought it might take 1-2 days to receive it but then next day morning we left for office and my mom called at 11am the passport was delivered. So in flat 48 hours we had our passports in our hand

 I was completely dumbfounded and happy with the overall experience and kudos to the corporate government partnership along with technology  which has made our life very easy.

Thank you GOI and TCS. It was really great customer experience!!

Only Papa time for Kyra for 48 hrs

Well this Wednesday morning I was supposed to join back office after a small break and catch up on all the thousands of emails. But the fate had something else in mind for me for the next 2 days.

Well early morning Deepa started having stomach cramps n got worse by 5am. Any home medicine would not work. She was not able to feed Kyra. Then at 8 am took decision to admit her as I alone was not able to take care of Deepa n Kyra. Also my mom was on vacation n daily help was on leave for that week.

I had Deepa's sister be with her in the hospital. But the biggest task was to manage Kyra without any help. Now it is easy to play with her for an hr or make her sleep but then to take care for next 2 days..phew..I was already sweating.

For initial hours I had my friend Shiva help me so that I could settle down. I had observed Deepa in her daily activities. .so then started my tasks. Firstly boiled her water, sterlized bottles, checked stock of baby food.. diapers..

Then started the routine of feeding, playing, sleeping,  playing, diaper change... then I realized we had been from a small trip n kyra did not have a decent bath. Then applied some oil and gave a warm bath to her. Earlier I thought Kyra would not adjust but then she must be thinking I don't care until I get my food and sleep.

The sleeping period at night was challenge . She was a bit cranky..30 min gone and she has not yet slept. Then she started the crying. .n howling..and it was almost 1 hour now.. I was irritated ..angry.. but then realized I had to do it.. I cuddled her again in my arms and sang her fav song and vola..she was asleep. .. I had kept few bottles of milk ready in the night but she slept like a baby.

The next day was also uneventful and I was in the groove.  Deepa was discharged in the afternoon but then had to take care of them as Deepa was still weak and had fever.

After 2 days the help returned and Deepa's health has improved but it gave me some really great time Kyra . Loved taking care of her. Still have to work on my patience levels. For now I can be a baby sitter in case IT industry takes a hit :)

Princess. .it been 6 months..

Its been 6 months since the arrival of our princess Kyra and it has been a wonderful journey.  I still pinch myself and think how last 6 months have passed like a pleasant breeze...

She is the love of my life and some of these pic capture some of her various moods. Sometimes she my cutie pie..my bunny ..my devil..my smarty..

Watching you grow everyday is a feeling which I just can't express in words.. its so amzing..fulfilling and enriching experience.   

Love you lots Kyra !!!

Open letter to Maharashtra Home Minister and Mumbai Traffic police

Dear Sirs,

I am Santosh Asbe working in a  global IT organization and want to bring you notice the issue faced by a common man like me and i want your assistance for this to be resolved.

I  had parked my car on PD Hinduja road ,near Khar telephone exchange as  i was there to register my Leave and license agreement  at around 515pm on  Saturday 7th June. I had my wife and 4 month daughter in the car. My car AC was working fine when i reached. I had parked the car behind a tree on PD Hinhuja road and not obstructing  the traffic.No sign of NO PARKING was mentioned. There were multiple other cars parked angularly over there.

After registration, when  i came out at 6pm, did not find the car and was informed that it had been towed by traffic police station on the same road connecting SV road. While paying the fine, i was told i was charged for Angular parking which was interesting as the tree could not allow me to park parallel parking. 

 Since my 4 month old daughter was already hungry and crying relentlessly , i paid the fine and left. During my return to home in Andheri west i realized the AC was not working. Initially i thought that it might the car was in sun for long but then after 30 min, AC could not cool the car. I took my daughter home first as had cried throughout my return due the non function of AC in the Mumbai heat. Then I went to Ford Service on Sunday morning to check the damage. They told me the condenser has been damaged and the oil has spilled out and it needed replacement. I ask him how could this damage would have happened, he mentioned it might be due towing vehicle.  I had to spend Rs 12,000 for the repair of damages done.

My sincere request is you to make the towing people responsible for the damages and in long term such incidents don't occur and bring the confidence in people that there is justice will be provided to an common man .

regards,

Santosh Asbe

2 States..Bihar n Rajasthan..

Well those who thought that this a 2 States movie or book review then you are wrong. Those who also thought that I got the states wrong..then please read ahead for the complete story.

Well this boy is a paka Jain who does not eat onion, ginger, etc goes to Mandir daily. We have to adjust for him every time we go out for  food. He is my favorite bakra and njoy pulling his leg.

Now the gal is from from the land of Laloo, loves Malda mangoes and loved to eat non veg food but now turned into a veggie. I have seen her in pain and go to doctor for multiple times but her energy and smile can put any pain go away.

Now something happened between these young people some years back. They tried to hide it and make it work. I know from my experience it would have been a great struggle but then to get married at the end of the day is a great achievement.  It is just a beginning  to a wonderful phase in your life.

Pragya Tiwari and Chirag Mehta , Kyra, Deepa and me would like to wish you a great happy married life.  I would like to apologize for not being there and dancing drunk in your baraat but our wishes and love will always be there.

I am not good at expressing my feelings but just want to give you both a jaddu ki jappi.
Cheers !!!

Three wonderful ladies in my life

I have not been blogging for long now but due to twitter and facebook it has been easy to put my thoughts in few words. But then as the title of blog suggests it would have been difficult to express myself in few words.

My Mother : She is my defense lawyer as I call her fondly. Anyone and anybody can say anything against me but then she will defend me at any cost. She is inspired by the Bollywood mother of the 80's and completely filmy. She taught me what unconditional love is. She has been through a lot in life and things are always difficult in joint family. She is disciplined for fitness and has an extra energy after Kyra's birth. She loves signing and last year we found she can dance as well. She loves watching movies and can watch any movie..even those dubbed ones. I sometimes take her for granted and say things which I don't mean. But I will be always be there for you Mom !

My Wife - Deepa's introduction to my life was not planned and it has been an amazing journey with her. With 10 years of knowing her and 4 n half years of marriage has taught me a lot. She is the most independent strong minded individual.  She always has been there to listen and give me the correct advice.  Saw her go through a lot during pregnancy and post Kyra's birth and witnessed completely different side of her. My respect for women was raised to a different level after watching Deepa go through this phase. She is really the better half in my relationship and you complete me dahling.

My princess: Kyra my bundle of joy who arrived 2 months back in our life has changed it completely.  Being a parent is so difficult job that I can manage complex projects but managing Kyra is a different ball game.  She is teaching me something everyday but the joy to hold her every night  and sing her to sleep brings a happiness I cannot explain in words. I can't predict the future but  I hope I you are a combination of my mother and wife.

These 3 wonderful women have taught me and molded me into the person I am and they will keep on influencing me in future.

For them I can sing my fav hindi song which I only sing for Kyra
"Kyunki tum hi ho
Ab tum hi ho
Zindagi ab tum hi ho
Chain bhi, mera dard bhi
Meri aashiqui ab tum hi ho"

For my non hindi speaking friends the song means that you are the only one I love and none else.

TCS runners up of Times Cricket Shield F division 2010-11

Since I started my TCS cricket career , there has been many trophies, some runner ups as well..but runner up for Times Cricket shield 2010-11 is an achievement. I would like to congratulate each team member for winning this trophy. I played the first few matches and missed the quarters, semis and the finals due my travel to US in March-April 2011 (which is one of my biggest regret till date).

Prasad Mhadnak was adjudged the best batsman in the tournament with a total score of 400+ . Brilliant knocks, class apart and we all deserve a big party from him

But I would also like to acknowledge everyone else who chipped in around him.

Ameya - who took the initiative to open along with him and had great starts.

Yogesh - Who played  some good innings and not to forget some good overs bowled

Rahul - Some good knocks  and good bowling

Rohit - Bowled well. Wishing he could have batted to his potential

Amit – Bowled his heart out

Pritam – As usual giving more than what is required in any situation.

Sankara- cause all runs Prasad scored in this tournament were with Sankara’s woodpecker batJ

I am missing some names but each team member played well that showed in our cricket.Our team’s passion, commitment was outstanding and that includes all the team members and not the 11 members in the team.

There were many personal incidents, as well, which I want to share with everyone. Some incidents which stand out:

I had my name in papers for getting 3-26 against pidilite. The rule for getting name in paper is to have 3 or more wickets. After getting 2 wickets , I was unable to get that elusive 3^rd wicket. In the end I requested Ameya (captain) to give me the last over for my name in the papers. He obliged and I had my name in the papers.

Second incident, I recollect is about the umpire we had for one of the matches. I am known for my sledging/shouting abilities but this umpire sledged me after every ball, giving gallis for bad bowls and not finishing the game earlier. He was the only person who could irritate me so much and I wish he never officiates in a match we play again.

Now this year it’s the time to win the elusive and coveted Inter-Tata trophy. Let do it guys!!

Happy Anniversary..Deepa !!!

I still cant believe that I have completed 2 years of my married life .It just seems like yesterday when along few friends and family we went for the court marriage. I was thinking what I can gift my wife this year…

some jewelry..nah…

some surprise trip…but I have already done that..

then something she wants..but she has everything she wants rite now..

or plan to watch 3 movies of her favorite stars with her Azaan(Sachin Joshi), Mile na mile hum (Chirag Paswan) and Damadam (Himesh bhai)…but it wud have been an torture for me …

then what I can do best for her…I can write some lines for her describing our journey ---( with some songs going on in the background)

Today morning when I woke up, saw sleeping by my side---Tumse mil ke aisa laga ( Parinda )
Realized we have spent 2 years of our lives together --- Zindagi Haas ke bitayenge (Satte pe Satta)
with all the wonderful time spent together -- Yuhi kat jayega safar sath chalne se (HHRPK)
with all the fights due to mis-communications --- Jo bhi main khena chahu , barbad kare alphaz mere (Rockstar)
All the laughs due to my stupidity --- main toh hu pagal (Badshah)
Having all the discussion..gossips.. fundas --- Aao sikhau tumhe ande ka funda (Jodi no 1)
But the truth is you make my life complete -- -Vada raha (Khakee)
I love you … I love you…. (Bodyguard)

The Anna Hazare saga…

It all started with a Jan Lokpal bill which is supposed to eradicate corruption and in Anna’s words “upto 65% can be reduced”. Then started the blackmail of fast, to accept all points of civil society. The stupid government, then, arrested Anna and created an unrest which can shake the very roots of our democracy, in which media has played a great role.

There is a talk about a change, but is this the change we are expecting? All these people on streets, the morchas, are they for the corruption to be removed by a single law?

Before we change the system, we have to think how we can change ourselves. We don’t think even a wee bit to get things done via bribe. We are all hypocrites: on one hand we want corruption to be removed but at the same time if it affects us then we give bribes and get away with it.

It is easy to blame the government that it not doing anything. But where were all these people during elections, when they were not voting or voted the wrong people to power. Every time we walk through a dug up road, we will pass comment saying corruption is eating up the road but no one will take action. In Mumbai the number of cars is increasing, people walk on the road since their space is occupied by hawkers. But we also buy stuff from these hawkers and that is why they have increased. We find new ways to evade all taxes, save VAT, avoid custom, import, octroi and also pay bribes to achieve this Its easy to blame the system. Isn’t it a crime to cross railway tracks? Bridges are built, but still people use tracks since they are in hurry. There is a law to punish these people but they pay fine and cross the tracks the next day. In this case, if people don’t care for their lives then how will one lokpal bill will change everything and reduce corruption? How will this bill change the attitude of people?

Also, let’s not forget the role of the media who has been more than proactive to track Anna and team and give details of everything they do. For the media there is no difference between Anna and Rakhi Sawant. They will do whatever it takes, to get eyeballs.

Call me cynic but I am realistic. The drama should end. There were multiple solutions present with both government and Anna’s team. Government on its part reluctantly discussed the bill with Anna’s team and got it to the Parliament. Anna’s team should have scored a small victory with passing the bill and pursuing with the government for amendments to it. Even if the Government agrees to all the changes, it would be tough for the Parliament to pass it. Then Anna will again go on fast and into a cyclic loop. If Anna and his team have the faith and really want to change something, they should form a party and we will support them to power and then they can pass the bill without any hindrance.

Till then the saga continues …..

Adios !

He was a man loved by everyone , who departed this dark gloomy night

Felt like losing a part of me, My heart bleed but could not cry

My legs were weak and mouth was dry

Wanted to say many things but he could not hear

All dreams transformed to ashes , in front of my eyes

I was mere bystander left with a void which could not be filled

Rue the fact that could not make things right

But life has to move on with your memories and blessings

And promise to make our loved ones happy and to cherish your memories.

----- In loving memory of my father-in-law “Pradyumna Khetan”

My dear Valentine

My dear Valentine...

being with you makes my day

every moment i spend with you is magical.

Your spontaneous hugs and kisses

those lovely eyes show how much you love me

your smile drives me crazy

sometimes feels like a we have spend lifetime together

and next minute feel like we got along yesterday

My mind plays these crazy games with me

This must be what they call love...

I never celebrate Valentine's day but

cud not resist myself from doing so...

I love you Jaan...

loads of hugs n kisses...

My Love Aaj Kal !!!

In my last post i had mentioned that why i liked the movie Love Aaj Kal...well hope the below story lets you know why ...my story was a mix of both generations...

Well we did not have any break up party ..and if we had, we cud have had more than 3-4 break off parties.. We wanted to be practical and not emotional..wanted our parents & family to be happy..we tried..we went our own ways..started looking for new partners but then we realised we could not live without each other..

Deepa and me first met when we joined TCS together. No no..it was not love at first sight. We were just acquaintances and had fun during the training, the company provided. We had great back benchers group and used to have lots of fun. I actually wanted to know one of her friends better but it did not work out.

I started my first project along with her. She was my Java teacher, but i never learnt Java. I was never good at coding. Deepa , i and Dipti shared the same computer for 2-3 months. We had a great group of 7-8 people, enjoyed our coffee breaks, lunch breaks and our walk to the Lower Parel station (Few of my friends must have seen me with Deepa on the station). People used to tease me or Deepa about us being a couple but we never felt that way towards each other. We used to laugh at people calling us a couple and enjoy. Both were very clear that we can't get into a relationship cause of our respective backgrounds. In hindsight, that made us comfortable with each other and opened up our lives without the fear of falling for each other.

Once i was having few beers with my friends Pritam and Amit in Gazebo, Bandra and i mentioned that i am really good friends with this gal from office. They got curious and said that i never spoke about any gal like this ever. They said there must be something more than friendship. I laughed it off!! Was there something goin on in my mind which i did not understand???

As friends we enjoyed each others company. First time i ever thought about her as more than a friend was after Hemali's marriage (she was colleague in TCS). We attended the function and something happened and we started talkin about how people thought us as a couple and then the discussion went haywire. We tried to convince each other that there was no chemistrybetween us , we, different people from different backgrounds, and it is not possible for us to be together. Actually we broke off before i proposed to her. But one fine day i asked her on the phone " Do you want to spend your whole life with me" . Ya how boring, un-romantic, but that was the only way i cud have proposed her and yes Hitesh gave me the support to talk to her.

And then the relationship started. For both of us this was a new territory. but we adapted to each other. To be a couple there are many things which we had to adjust, understand, fight. We needed to be sure about the relationship we were getting into. We were quite sure that we can work everything out.

We spoke to our parents about each other and got quite a negative response from both sides. So, we decided to be practical and part our ways to fulfill our parents wishes, not understanding or knowing what we are doing. Some of our very good friends tried to make us realise what we actually wanted, but we were too "practical".

After our break off in Diwali of 2005, we remained in touch. Sometimes meeting with common friends , sometimes an Odd message. I tried to move on with seeing gals for marriage and she also tried to move with her life and she went onsite for few months. I tried hard, saw almost 30 gals and yes somewhere she was in my back of my mind.

Then came THE realization day... my accident. It was November 2006 and i also wrote a blog about it. The point i did not write there was, that after my operation, in anesthesia mode i was only talking about 3 people, Mom, dad and Deepa. Next day, after the effects of the anesthesia went off, i realised that i am getting all these weird smiles and looks from patients, nurses and even the doctor. Later Krishna , my roomie, told me about it. It made me think. Few months later after lots of deliberation i spoke to my parents about it. They were fine with it, but wanted to meet Deepa. I asked Deepa, but she wanted time to think , get things sorted at her place. I went abroad twice after that so that she could have a realization and build upon the strength to talk to her parents.

In Jan 2009 , i came back from US and decided that we need to get married ASAP. She talked to her parents, tried to convince them, but they were not interested to meet me. We waited..we tried.but then we wanted to move on with our lives. Our lives had been stuck in the same situation for 5 years. Wish they could understand we tried out best to get away from each other but the bond was so strong . We were unable to convince them. Hence we decided to take the plunge by having a court marriage.

This marriage would not have been possible without the support of my parents, family and friends. They have laid the foundation for our relationship for which we have to build on now.

Cheers to the new beginning !!!

Suprise !!

My days in New York !

Sometime back i was speaking to my friend and i mentioned that one place i would like to go again for work is New York. My friend was surprised by it because knowing me working out of Mumbai is a completely NO NO for me even for short term projects.

Then why new York ...the place is just like Mumbai, traffic , train , people , food. You meet so many people from various countries , religion. So much to discuss , so much to learn and certainly very beautiful gals to ogle at. But not to forget the party places. There is always something to do in New York.

I was working for more than 12 hours but even after that watching the Manhattan after getting down from my office was amazing. Sometimes walk down the Battery park in NY, going to Indian restaurants, visiting the kebab / rolls places was just part of the routine.

But the most important part of my stay was my friends .. roomies..esp Prajwal. We had covered all the restaurants on Indian street in journal square. I was the 'Dupree' at Rahul & Sheenaz's place ( Reference movie You, me and Dupree). Spent most of my time with them. n Only regret was i could not be in India for Rahul and Sheenaz marriage and miss the Pittoragarg (Nainital) trip with my buddies.

I am bak !!

It just feels like Arnold from Terminator..saying..I am Bak !! he he..

Long time folks without writing anything..actually there was so much happening..but cud not sit down and write as if part of me had shut down..and i say to myself..Apne andar ke writer ko jagoa Santosh..
Last i had written was when i was in New York.. was there till jan..frankly i enjoyed my NY trip this time cause it fun..more like Mumbai..Friends, parties and good food..

Now i am in Pune for the last 1 month and will be here till September end...Life is boring here..but sometimes we are required to do things which we dislike ..all for the bigger picture..
Life is full of compromises but important thing is how these compromises shapes us as an individual..
Now now..enough of gyan...something related to movies..
Hangover is really awesome movie, tickled my funny bone. I really liked 'Love Aaj Kal' ..i will write a different blog really soon sharing with u all why i liked the movie so much..
I really need to watch Kaminey but no theaters r open, thanks to the Swine flu...
but cause of swine flu..i m writing again ..so..

I am bak !!