mYstance

Creativity

2012-01-21T16:26:00.008+05:30

Creativity- An Insider's definition

"Creativity is nt drama in 3 act structure. Its chaos uncertainty vulnerability n d agonizing loss of personal ego"

(Tweet by @shekharkapur, one of the truly unapologetic and original tweeters, sometimes extreme, but mostly insightful )

And the second tweet I quite liked and resonates eversince Ive read it is work related, but quite defines the idea of stress-free work
"Work is love. You should own it, feel it, savour it. It should make u, break your heart. You should find yourself in work. As in love."
(Tweet by @jiteshpillai)

Both these tweets somehow remind me of Rockstar yet again, which could've so easily been a straightforward and simple film, but consciously bravery, love and conviction in self was shown at every level in its making!

Post addition: Ted talk
Shekhar Kapur: We are the stories we tell ourselves

State of Mind

2012-01-13T22:45:00.003+05:30

Clarity via Conflict

Tweet by @shekharkapur

"How do u find urself? By being lost first. Do u have d courage 2 b lost?"

*Picture courtesy

Move.Eat.Learn

2012-01-13T18:04:00.001+05:30

A Smart Series of Travel Films

MOVE from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

EAT from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

LEARN from Rick Mereki on Vimeo.

Monsoon Wedding

2012-01-06T21:35:00.002+05:30

Not that I am watching the movie for the first time, but it is a perfect choice to liven up a working weekend! On watching it quite a while later, more and more minute details come alive- especially in the characters.

It's such a pity Shefali Shah doesn't act much any more. Her character, it's withdrawal, handling and her coming around is one of my favourite parts about this film. Her moment with Naseeruddin Shah when he comes to take her back home is just so well acted, followed by ofcourse her heartfelt surprise when a stand is finally taken in the family and Rajat Kapoor is asked to leave.

One of the most spirited films ever! And for the most soulful, will leave that again to Mira Nair- keeping the Namesake handy for a re-watch sometime soon.

2012!

2012-01-06T18:15:00.005+05:30

So, so glad to have started the New Year with the most grounded and real group of old friends I've come across in a long, long time.
And also, to have made this long beach walk (a very long stretch of undisturbed beaches) Ive been wanting to make for a long time.

Year-end Tweets

2011-12-20T23:45:00.001+05:30

Some significant ones :

Belief: This year has been good-its shown that whatever I've thought n assumed is actually true
- added a lot of self belief! :)

Prompt Decisions: Replying promptly to emails/txts/calls may make me seem less important/expensive- but the whole fashionably Late thing just doesn't work for me.

Disappointed, but hopeful

2011-12-19T20:23:00.001+05:30

Tweet post
Rephrasing:Somewhere between extremes of being typical (cool/luke warm) there lie a few proudly original people-I want to meet them! #difficult

Nostalgia

2011-11-21T01:24:00.005+05:30

As the India release is nowhere in sight, this was the best decision to light up a Dull Weekend!

Mid-Film Tweet :: "Finally watching Midnight in Paris and its crazy! Magical- love it when imagination is stretched for good n exciting cinematic effect"

It's strange Magical Imagination where the character moves fluidly in and out of time, even meeting historic figures on the way did remind me of the novel Midnight's Children ( which in my opinion is the most crazy, imaginative tale ever told).

Highly recommend this one. A light, but inspiring film on the journey of an artist and the mental & emotional stimuli that are involved in making a good one.

P.S. Love all of Marion Cotillard's shift dresses and the detailed recreation of the 1920's, especially the brass bicycle carousel - Vintage at it's best!

(1920's Fashion- Image Source)

Advice

2011-11-16T15:51:00.000+05:30

Sought- Listen, Unsought- Hear or blur out, both filter-filter-filter, till I make it my own.

Exposure

2011-11-14T23:08:00.006+05:30

A Significant quote:

“If you have to be good at your art, you need to appreciate all other forms of it,” he would say.

If my eyes are open to the finer things in design, architecture, music, food, graphics and literature, Gautam planted the seed. In some subliminal way, your life’s influences come to the fore, he believed, when you use 1/125th of a second to freeze something.

Atul Kasbekar quotes photographer Gautam Rajadhyaksha in Indian Express EYE.

It is so true, the exposure to various influences will always show in any form of art or design.

Rockstar!

2011-11-13T17:47:00.015+05:30

Finally something has propelled me enough to blog beyond 140 characters ( ie on Twitter- not Facebook- it's not such a free space & I half-know 3/4th of the people, unlike Twitter where I do not know anyone, but wish to know all! )

Rockstar! Frankly I was really looking forward to this film & had decided I was not going to be disappointed. Here was a film, whose previews looked good, told a story and just looked strong- a well designed film.

So, in the theatre as it opened it started looking largely different from the preview assumptions I had made. It is garnering some rather strong Love/ Hate responses. It is really easy to hate given that it's long, quite abrupt, incomplete and quite bizzare at times - 10% of the people walked out 5-10 minutes before the end when it seemed beyond logical.

Coming back to my personal experience of watching Rockstar ( it is not a collective watching / common collective opinion kind of film). 10 minutes past, I realised that this is not the film I was expecting- I was here for the journey of a rockstar upto the point of his destruction, while he romances a girl & is heartbroken, thrown away from his house and all the bad things that contribute to his pain.

It was all that, but it turned out to be in a form of exploded, sometimes abrupt fragments in flashback, roughly in a chronological order. It was not easy to read/ understand as it progressed. But it is a strong film- and has no average reviews- People hate it and I am one of the people who Love it!

I guess people hate it, not because it was lower than expected, but it was not HOW they expected it to be. Fair enough, given the nature of the film.

Here is why I decided to LIKE Rockstar- sometime into the film I realised that I was just burdening it with my expectations of how the story should unfold. But I did not think the fragmented nature was an amateurish accident, but it was designed to be so. It is a very conscious effort from the director's (Imtiaz Ali) end to tell his story the way he wants to and was going to be very unabashed about being indulgent in his vision for it.

When did I decide to LOVE Rockstar? Was right at the end when there is a throwback to the scene where the two are alone in Himachal and the credits started to roll. The inconclusive, yet complete end when all those seemingly abrupt fragments start making sense & I realised that this wasn't about a rockstar's journey, but a love story. It is a film, which is as much a post-watching experience. For people who have loved it, it will play in their minds for a while because the bits and pieces are still coming alive and it's beauty turns deeper. And how beautiful is it to start with a quote that does not make sense then, and again to end on the same quote, which now sums up this story!

It is an imperfect movie- and I can love it for the plain fact that the director has not compromised or manipulated any bit just to be conventionally safe & it reflects in every aspect. The hitch was Nargis Fakhri and her injected lips, but she is very likable and someone perhaps just had to be plain, heart-breakingly beautiful to contribute to the intensity in the second- half.

This is a biased opinion and for a fair opinion, the review by RajeevMasand is good. A frank view by Mayank Shekhar as well. As for the extreme negative ones, they have not tried to look beyond the obvious and here are a few IndiaToday & NDTV . It is not a Loved by all film, but of those who do not like it just because it was nowehere near Jab We Met , I wish them a fresh perspective towards films.

A Tweet I quite liked about Rockstar
@Ghantaguy I'm not sure what 'love' is but I like Imtiaz Ali's idea of it.

Respectable Opinion
@Azmishabana Imtiaz Alis writing in Rockstar is surprising and unpredictable.tugged at my heartstrings..hindi cinema is finally coming of age..wow!

And there maybe a reason why people may suddenly flip towards liking Rockstar ;) - Icon Value!
@SrBachchan T 557 - Its late but not without cause .. just back from 'RockStar' and living in the brilliance of all - Imtiaz Ali, Ranbir, AR and Nargis
T 558 -Still with 'RockStar' and its beauty ..and now to be with family and its joys .. some of the pleasures of vacant schedules ..rare !!

In Conclusion, Imtiaz Ali on Rockstar, post all the response, dated 14th Nov 2011:
Ask him if he is trying to change the grammar of commercial cinema and he says, “I don't know about grammar. I just feel there is no need to fake your narration just to fit into the commercial formula.”

And I visit the Rockstarfilm site and find this cool trivia about Jordan's character- The Journal - A character sketch and persona detailing- very cool- it shows!

A Blog post about post movie discussion with audience & Imtiaz Ali

Zindagi milegi na dobara: Tweet post

2011-07-18T23:34:00.000+05:30

Unless expecting cerebral chow,it's very difficult to be disappointed with ZNMD. Loved the urban aspirational vibe, the reflective mood & Spain ofcourse. A tad too long, mainly in the adventure scenes, but I guess the idea was to soak in them.
The surprise perhaps was Katrina Kaif, whom I usually associate with as nothing beyond a pretty doll, is a whole new person/actor in the film!

Wishing for- A Concept Food Store!

2011-06-20T14:49:00.002+05:30

The great Indian Food bazaar

Though this may seem a severe critique, it is more of what could have been…

Background:

The thought of this post started after a rather disappointing visit to the newly opened Food Store- Foodhall at Palladium, Lower Parel. The disappointment was not about the variety or it’s quality, but of a huge lost opportunity. It is very easy to sum up Foodhall- it is Big Bazaar’s now shut Food Bazaar in a swankier mall. So the change has been addition of International ingredients and good lighting.

The reason to open foodhall, I’m sure is the newly presented opportunity of offering ingredients of World Cuisine. Godrej Nature’s Basket may have been the first super market to start on this format. Recently launched Gourmet West by Westside(Tata) has a similar concept. About 2 years ago, a very pleasant, inviting, well-planned and wisely stocked Gourmet city opened atop Shopper’s Stop, Malad and shut soon after. Mostly, a wrong location I would guess for such a premium concept. Hypercity does have a limited section of International ingredients, cold cuts and meat.

Post all this, we now have Foodhall, a 15,000 sq. ft space. The first glitch is the same as that of Big Bazaar, stamping ugly stickers on your belongings. A child’s fancy toy was scarred with a sticker (perhaps foodhall also plans to sell toys?! ). It is quite urgent to really find an alternative to this ugly practice to safeguard against shop-lifting!

What’s in store:

The first aisle is filled with Indian spices and dry ingredients in fancy acrylic dispensers
( Like the cereals at Gourmet west). However, I am quite unsure of what appeal lies in taking normal, generic mustard seeds out of these fancy contraptions.

This is followed by aisles of masalas, including the famous in America, made in Pakistan Shaan brand. It is right here you notice, the maze and tight aisle space created. Post this, we have the Asian and South-Asian section filled with the usual Nature’s Basket stock, though shelves here are packed to the tee. However, they need to be careful about crushing packaging under it’s weight.

Next is Indian cooking oils- Saffola, etc. and then instant noodles and other ingredients of everyday kitchen use. There is a mini dairy section with packaged products. Packed breads and bakery products are available. A well-lit vegetable and fruits island is loaded with quite badly arranged vegetables.

Extras:

There is a big ready to eat cooked section, which serves Indian fare- biriyanis, meals, salads and a few other things. A small cold-cuts section is something you just may miss. By check-out, I am not sure why would I re-visit this store?! I also am skeptical about quality, but at the counter there is a re-assurance that they do take back ingredients that you are not satisfied with.

Scope and Expectations:

The main disappointment was the typical mentality of dumping a given space with as much possible so as to achieve maximum returns. I think we as Indians, especially when it comes to niche stores, should do away with this hangover. But then again, the problem with Foodhall seems that it is not interested in carving a ‘niche’ unlike Nature’s basket and Gourmet West.

In offering everyday Indian ingredients with the Exotic, they may seem to fill the gap between a Big Bazaar/ Subhikhsha and a Nature’s Basket. As a tweet from them said “#foodHall is like its modern indian customers..Pesarattu dosa for breakfast, Fajiats at dinner! “
But then again I happen to be a 'non-beleiver in fusion' modern Indian.

So is Indian not exotic enough?

Of course it is, but give me a story, a belief. Tell me that the Sarso out of the fancy vending machine is of superior quality, give me origins. Is it sourced directly from farmers? How about integrating a greater, richer experience? What about myths and legends about our rich spices? That something more is what any new food store format is going to require. Or the local baniya is just a call away for any generic Mustard seeds/ Urad/ jeera, etc. What will make a customer entering Palladium, go to Foodhall, travel through narrow aisles, encounter untrained staff and buy a normal, everyday ingredient?

How does over-stocking a shelf with all the seaweed and bamboo rolling mats, but no sticky rice or horse-radish powder easily visible help? In the plethora of 4-5 brands of everything and packed to the tee quantity of each, it is very difficult to decipher or obtain that one exact thing I may be looking for.

Which may be the comman case of a person shopping for Foreign ingredients. She/ He has a list of ingredients for a specific recipe they plan to cook. It was a great opportunity to break away from aisles and create Cuisine islands instead. Something that would be easy to read and also interactive and engaging.

Direction- Experential Gourmet

Further, the purpose of the whole ready to eat meals being there is something I cannot fathom. The disappointment is not just the underutilization of space (actually over-utilization of floor space ), but the lost opportunity to have an actual Experiential Gourmet store at an ’exclusive’ mall. A part of Mumbai is ready for a different, more challenging format than a generic Food store with an integrated confused Deli.

There hardly lies a recipe in the world that is inaccessible, an ingredient that’s remotely unheard of. A large mass of Indians will take time to get there. But a considerable few have got there and that niche can now be explored. It is time Giant companies can afford to experiment and take these quality risks.

Home Review January 2011: An Article by me

2011-02-01T11:01:00.000+05:30

Weekend Picture Inspiration

2011-01-29T10:43:00.006+05:30

Ideally anyday inspiration, but definitely on a weekend :)

The Design Conflict

2011-01-29T01:40:00.001+05:30

Taking off from the picture above and one more personal tweet "Have come to appreciate #Couture ... It is truely liberating for a designer and the viewer! Creativity undiluted."

There is always a conflict while designing a certain product between the Artist and Designer inside me. As a belief, Design is for the User to be worn/ used/ interacted with- adding value. Art is an integral part of design but may not serve functionally but is engaging to one or more senses- sometimes purely creative and indulgent.

Currently the Couture weeks are doing rounds internationally and turn out quite awe-inspiring to look at as pure art. Their Pret-a-porter counterparts do not look so fabulous and inspiring as they mainly are targeted towards buyers eventually. Commerce is a driving force there and thus coming back to my work...

There has to be that one big piece that is organic and designed such that no one may ever wear. But it has to be done to fuel the other less interesting ones. Because from experience, the moment the starting point is plainly 'selling', creative blocks are formed immediately. Highly undesirable and frustrating!

Ending on one more tweet "Creativity & Commerce should not exist in the same space *'ideally'!"

*Difficult but imperative

Black Swan

2011-01-25T11:01:00.003+05:30

As a Film about a character who is obsessed with being 'perfect', it is but incredible that this film is 'Perfect'!

With a strong storyline, fueled by powerhouse actors and envisioned by a superior director, backed by stunning, poetic and sometimes even painful visuals- I think it's the closest to perfection film, I've seen in recent times. The last sequence is a pure stunner and the end is sure to leave any viewer numb as the film culminates and the unanswered bits and pieces fall into place in your head.

The problem with the India release is going to be the 'cuts', which I 'm sure would take away from the complex turmoil the lead character is going through. So, if you are lucky like me, have a good friend courier it to you :)

For more perspective, read on ... http://www.siddharthajoshi.com/2011/01/black-swan_22.html

Dhobi Ghat

2011-01-25T10:52:00.000+05:30

Impactful,but I'm not awed,neither do I think it's too much of a niche film.But DhobiGhat has a bigger purpose:establish Prateik- DONE! :)

As Mumbai Diaries, the film works well. What at times does not work is the awkward actors in the form of Monica Dogra and as someone did mention Amir Khan. As a painter, he has tried to perfect the angst, the unconventional lifestyle, but tries too hard. Perhaps a faceless actor would have helped here as well. I do not think Prateik stumbles even once, and the only smiles/laughs in the audience were brought about by him. Not due to any antics, but his genuine reactions as the naive (a little refined) dhobi.

The locations definitely are a highlight. The film is not smooth throughout. It does seem to go nowehere at times. However, it ends powerfully as the characters come to a common emotional point and lead on from there. Nice, different for Indian Mainstream, but the 'I liked, not for everyone' reviews still seem a little fake and strange.

As the best film on Mumbai and it's layers? I guess the slot is still empty.

A Micro-post: An Institute with an Attitude

2011-01-18T20:18:00.000+05:30

A tweet that turned into a post...
"Feel it so many times.So just saying it!Thank God for NID! If Institutes weren't judged only by CTC's and blah...this would top by substance"

It really doesn't take me any major experience to know the value of the education received at NID. But, after being especially exposed to the superficial education being imparted in some institutes, which churn numbers of qualified professionals, I can only be thankful for an institute that at least tries it's very best to truly put 'quality' first.

It is just wonderful to be in a place, where every single student in my class was pulled up to the best of personal potential. In ordinary situations, every student is left where he/she is, thanks to all the racing around!

And to everyone who makes a Big Excuse under this disguise, NID does happen to be under the Government as well!

*Disclaimer: This is in no way advertising an institute/ bullying others. It is a heartfelt personal experience and opinion.

Article on Craft for Homereview Magazine: Nov 2010

2010-11-24T16:19:00.001+05:30

Article on Bidri Craft written by me: Home Review Magazine, November 2010

When Beauty distracts...

2010-11-22T16:09:00.001+05:30

Guzaarish is a film you really want to love. Right from the first frame, the visuals strike you. It is as if the director dreamt each and every frame and translated it on screen, with an aim to awe.

This awe, scale and depiction of characters which look like paintings is the very problem of the movie. While the movie mentions the time and place it is set in, it never feels so. Though the characters are human, their portrayal has expressions of the scale of a mythological drama. Understandingly, these all are for a certain dramatic effect, again clearly imagined by the director.

As the visuals and the scale of these dreams awed , they slowly constructed the barrier between the character and the viewer. Coz, as the movie advanced, it's human scale decreased and the dramatic painting like visuals just distracted form the core simple emotions that the movie could have been all about.

Completely appreciate the imagination powers of this director, the notable styling by Sabyasachi. Like the movie, Sophia's beautiful Spanish portrayal has more of a visual impact than emotional (good acting-but glycerine shot eyes were too many). Ethan sometimes seemed too myth-like. I could have still liked the movie much more, till in an act of self-indulgence, it got too dramatic with a party in the end. The main spoiler being a hug with people jumping onto the dying character.

If nothing else, would have appreciated a more poignant end than the unintentionally clumsy and weird end.

Too much going back to expect for SL Bhansali, but still waiting for the basic treatment of a beautiful subject like Khamoshi. Because, 4 films post that, I really do not care about the magnanimous scales, bigger stars, gorgeous textiles and colour psychology palates. All I care is for a good, honest, non-manipulated film.

A witty take - spoiler alert!

A little Different

2010-11-08T16:12:00.001+05:30

Apart from the agendas, speeches, dodged questions and reading between lines, this picture is a refreshing change from the usual stiff pictures. And the monument choice is such a relief!

Udaan

2010-09-13T16:18:00.004+05:30

This has been a long pending post. But, thanks to the DVD in my possession now, I revisit it 2 months later and the feelings it invokes are as fresh and heart-felt.

Udaan is simple. So it is but natural to understand the " what's the big deal?" comments. It released along with the visually acrobatic Inception, so it was bound to be underwritten, even though the two are worlds apart.

For me, the very fact that a simple story plays on screen, minus frills, yet with so much flavour is a good movie. The flavour of Udaan is a mix of curbed ambitions and feelings inside Rohan, that find the courage and flight in the end.

The stark, shady start to the quaint steel town of Jamshedpur, everything is life-like. The terrorizing father too, who sometimes may seem exaggerated seems believably loathsome. The kid brother brings lighter moments to the film and is as wonderful as the rest of the cast.

What stays with me from this movie, is a parallel of the 'Mohan drinks water from urchin in Swades' and ' Ashok tells Gogol about how he reminds him of every moment in his life after the accident in Namesake.'

It is the final flight moment when Rohan walks out with his elder brother to live a better life and simultaneously his voiceover plays as his father reads his letter- that please don't even try to understand, as it is about something you will never understand- Love.

Such a poignant and powerful moment in any film that summarizes the spirit of that movie is plain moving and becomes a memory of that film.

Not to mention the opening and closing tracks and the beautiful poetry which only enhance the spirit of the film. This remains a benchmark for this year, and I am sure would remain unsurpassed. For, a well-rounded sincere film in it's own capacity is rare to be found.

Been upto...

2010-07-29T17:41:00.000+05:30

Watching Inception and not thinking much of it, beyond fancy larger-than-life visuals.

Watched Udaan and the film still lingers... Small and simple, a life-scale project with a sentiment you carry back home.

Visited PVC. Yes! PVC!!!!...And it was an icon of artifice as it can get. "Cool unfinished" decor is a USP in all reviews. You can read more on my view of yet another passable disaster called Pali Village Cafe here!
I call it passable, as its possible to resurrect projects that have their heart in the right place. But if a cafe' decides to opt for mediocre food and hyped decor, something's definitely wrong at the root. Nevermind.

BEST

2010-06-21T12:38:00.001+05:30

Blog Hiatus: Caught amongst many things including shifting house, new jewellery lines and many small things which included this:

An article for Impressions Magazine by l'Alliance Francaise, Mumbai.

Also, much more on www.blog.onlineswa.com

Transform

2010-05-05T10:40:00.001+05:30

I have a big question. This applies to not all, but definitely a few women who while were in India projected the " I am too serious and not frivolous to care about my shabby appearance" attitude.

Apparently all they have to do is cross India's border and it is a changed picture suddenly! I know women who grow up, find their own style and look great wherever they may be. But some go out and really change, in a big way, a contrast to a personality I would associate.

I have no idea if it is the social pressure to dress better, exposure, a sense of freedom or an idea of being in a different country, but the transformations have been confusing as much as they have been good, most of the times. I don't need answers to this, nor is this a vanity post, just something that has been a constant observation since a few years...

Dictating Aesthetic

2010-04-25T14:33:00.000+05:30

" You should become thinner, so you get to wear more clothes and fit into more." A statement I first heard about 4 years ago, sounded absurd, but knew to be true. After all, as most fashion houses and designers sketch highly stylized and exaggerated mannequin sketches as well as drape on probably size 2 mannequins and present on size 2 models, the statement turns out to be true.

Besides with the splash of images through media, the ideal public aesthetic globally has shifted to waifs. Health is of utmost importance, feels good, looks good. But when, the wearer has to mould to a design and mostly not the other way around, there seems something wrong!

Meat!

2010-04-08T20:48:00.000+05:30

After careful, continuous and consistent observation over many a FB pictures, I think I can now safely conclude this as a fact: Any picture of meat (especially the marine kind) and it is but natural that you would find a comment under it, and it surely, mostly would have to be from a Bengali.

I once saw a picture of fish swimming in clear shallow blue water and it was the funniest to read "yummy!" as a comment to it. Needless to say, it was from the Eastern intellectuals :). I do not think any other food is as interconnected and a subject of utter passion as Fish and Rice is to Bengalis. It is a very, very safe assumption! Peculiar and cute :)

Thanks,but no thanks!

2010-04-08T12:09:00.000+05:30

There was a time in the 1980's, pre- (liberalisation, globalisation, internet + easy exposure), when anyone who managed to actually cross the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal or the India Ocean and landed on the famed lands would come back and regale everyone with their stories as everyone watched wide-eyed. At times applauded as well!

But today, with borders dropping, extensive media exposure, easy travel, these stories have become redundant. There is no novel factor, amazing experience, special commodity that is not heard of. Mostly with a impatient mind, rolling eyes, I prefer to run away when NRI's flock town and try and regale us about - amcha kade and tumcha-kade.

I'm all ears to know about every land and experiences, it interests me immensely. It would be sad if I could not relate my experiences when I'm back from a great trip. But the big turn-off comes when there is an aim to the exercise- basically pointing out what is wrong here and right there. The manner of descriptions is almost as if the person is single-handedly responsible for building that country! I am not sure if this is a syndrome specific to (thankfully) a small segment of Indians.

By all means be my guest and do tell me about everything you experienced there, but consider my dignity and maintain your humility- would highly appreciate it!

As a post-script I would also love to add how much I do appreciate most of my friends (so many out of India), tell excitedly about their experiences, value their identity and are completely unpretentious- love and value that quality in times of unlimited artifice!

Google

2010-04-06T18:21:00.000+05:30

There is a group on Facebook called "I cannot imagine my life before Google.". Yet, to my surprise and dismay, not only do I find people misusing Google, but worse still not knowing how to use it!

LSD

2010-03-22T17:56:00.000+05:30

Hyped as it was, LSD is a long piece of work interlinking 3 stories exploring the pervasion of the camera in our lives. Unsettling due to the nature of the stories, LSD still did not go beyond that for me.

As for the rave reviews, may be I do not see it. For me it seemed quite artless. Sensational? yes!

Also, I am not amused, perhaps because of these reasons:
A. I am not a citizen of Delhi.
B. I am not a fan of the out-right crude sub-culture that may prevail there- not amusing.
C. I guess the director knows the city inside-out and uses the city-isms very well. A chuckle here and there, but beyond that you need to sit with patience through it.

Teeny

2010-03-20T17:53:00.000+05:30

Was quite dazed and dazzled by the sea of teeny- boppers at a club Phoenix mills post 11pm. Dressed in their finest, finer than 25-somethings, they were straight out of any American youth channel- or whatever it is that they watch.

Glad they are free, out there and dressed up on one hand, it was clear the flow was straight out of school, as exams just got over.

Just one thought: Hoping they all are mentally balanced, which they should be. Hate being cynical and old-ER. But if there is a certain % which may not be and high on trying to fit-in cookie cutter doll-like images, urban India will be strange place where 50% of the population under 20 will be starving due to lack of food and the other food-packed half starving on purpose!

Aimless finds...

2010-03-20T00:22:00.002+05:30

Aimless walks always let you stumble upon great things-especially in Mumbai. Sometimes amusing, some historic and some plain ornamental.

Women's Reservation

2010-03-13T14:12:00.004+05:30

As the bill finally gets passed in the Rajya sabha, a multiple views arise.
Presenting two almost polar views:

"As analysts have pointed out, the Bill contains many structural flaws. First, there will be compulsory unseating of two-third of the members every election. Second, there will be no incentive for MPs to nurse constituencies. Third, there is the undeniable fact that family politics will be further enhanced as a male who suddenly loses his seat to a reserved constituency will be tempted to simply put up a female relative as a proxy. Thus the floodgates of bahu-betis may open."- Ladies Compartment by Sagarika Ghosh.

"For as long as I can remember, I have been opposed to the principle of reserving seats for women in Parliament......My point was not that I was against women....... I was simply against reservation.So why then was I secretly pleased when the Reservation Bill was finally passed in the Rajya Sabha?

I don’t know, you can argue it both ways. But, in my heart, I remain delighted that eventually democracy defeated goondagiri."- Progress of women in society is entirely unrelated to the gender profile of the Parliament by Vir Sanghvi

Unassuming

2010-02-24T12:10:00.002+05:30

A quality on the brink of extinction!

Cruel

2010-02-20T12:50:00.002+05:30

Been looking around for a month now, not to find him anywhere.

Our alley -semi-pet cat Fatty.

Cherubic, innocent, lazy, loving, playful.

Was replaced due to a construction project and was sleeping unawares under a cab.

The cab turned on, hurt he ran away and mewed.

And just like that, happiness ended.

Random Thought 3/ 19-02-2010

2010-02-19T17:05:00.003+05:30

Playing dumber with the dumb.

Obliviously dumb with the extra smart.

Rationally simple with the intelligent!

Don't know!

2010-02-19T17:04:00.000+05:30

Is it that difficult to say than just try to act smart?

Stereotype

2010-02-19T17:03:00.001+05:30

Averse to anything/anyone stereotype! It's repulsion and a phobia of falling into one!

A Good Morning :)

2010-02-16T12:08:00.002+05:30

Positive hues, Vibrant light, Fresh Start!

Ashamed!

2010-02-15T16:44:00.002+05:30

I am deeply ashamed to have read the opinions in these reputed liberal publications :

Timeout

TOI

This city is made of diverse people all of whom work very hard and honestly in their capacity, fields and talent.

To further foolish aggression and arguments, feels like the city and everyone else has little worthwhile to do. Get busy-Creatively please! Let's give and explore the city than just exploit it !

PS: "South Mumbai is the best city in the world! " Can a statement be any more mortifying for a south Mumbaiikar???

Phir MIle Sur?

2010-02-12T18:44:00.001+05:30

A slightly mean but fun and apt post on the uninspiring fiasco that is Phir Mile Sur : Read on the author's version.

A Letter

2010-02-12T10:36:00.001+05:30

Rajdeep Sardesai to Udhav Thackery: A Letter

Unwanted Complexity

2010-02-10T15:23:00.002+05:30

Wordpress is a fancier looking blog. It has better looking themes and I am sure people who are technically progressive can tweak it to their advantage.

But for a moderately advanced user like myself, it is way too complicated and unnecessarily so. It has limited options, perplexing instructions and too many unnecessary things all over.

Even a simple instruction and option can seem like quite a task. Going from point A to B never sounded so daunting!

2010-02-09T17:22:00.002+05:30

Just read: "It's always better to stop pretending and be something that we are not. It's not so difficult."

Fascinating!

2010-02-04T12:47:00.002+05:30

To believe that the Indian Film Industry is hardly a 100 years old is difficult. This largest film industry in the world has it's roots in Bombay circa 1911. A Bombay beautifully created in Harishchandrachi Factory.

As you watch the consumed character of Dadasaheb Phalke come to life in this biopic, you watch fascinated by the Singular Passion a man could possibly have. The plot of this movie is a hands-down winner, tracing his life during the making of Raja Harishchandra- India's first feature film. A great tribute in the fine film that this is.

Though biographical, the whole movie is shot on a light-hearted note and is thoroughly entertaining. At the same time, it does not fail to bring across the inspiring character of Mr. Phalke. The focus of this movie is never lost and stands undiluted without distractions. Without glorification of the character, his greatness just comes across; and so does the great wall of support in form of his family, especially his wife-Great moments.

The film's simplicity stands out and is seen in every department. The performances of everyone in the cast are true to life and can transport you back to the era 100 years ago. That this film did not make it to the Oscars is not surprising at all. It may lack the snazzy finesse, but it couldn't have any. But importantly, to even understand greatness without the victorious trumpet background score is difficult.

Instead you have a charming, melodious, old-world Marathi Cinema music that blends in with the film and tells you a story of great accomplishment so simply, devoid of larger than life drama- that lacks the magnanimous scale and effect.

But importantly it strikes a chord here. Sadly non-Maharashtrian audiences may give it a miss, though it is released with sub-titles. Personally I cannot think of the movie in Hindi/ English, coz it would just take away something from it. But I would still think and urge everyone to catch this movie, not for patriotic reasons, but plainly to witness the passionate drive of a single person who dreamt larger than life.

More Views:

Kaustubh Kabre- A poetic interpretation.

Rajiv Masand- A 4/5 review.

Simplify

2010-01-24T00:52:00.002+05:30

As much as complications sound difficult and challenging, simplifying is a forgotten virtue. The keyword this decade would be: Simplify :)

Botheration

2010-01-24T00:45:00.004+05:30

Another thought which I need to note quite often: Unless not going to feature in the larger scheme of things, it's best not to let it bother: Thoughts, people, opinions, actions; if they seem trivial, they really are!

Level headed

2010-01-21T01:16:00.002+05:30

This opinion is the most balanced and appropriate opinion on Mumbai, Mumbaikar, Marathi, Maharashtrians and the Migrants...

" watching debate on mumbai taxi permits find it ironic that for mumbai to be cosmopolitan it mustn't encourage marathi!

you can always get by in mumbai without marathi and yet if you can pick up a few words of the state language why not?" via Anuradha Sengupta

The Left

2010-01-18T11:33:00.002+05:30

I have completely no idea why, but yes, the death of Jyoti Basu seems like the end of a very long era even to me. Up to a few years back, he was just a chief minister of West bengal for me, having endless consecutive terms.

In the past few years, visiting his extremely knowledgeable land, I can understand what impression the man has left on this state. Always caught between economic progress and the extreme necessity to maintain identity, a visit to Calcutta is always nostalgic. Perhaps, if the state was ruled by a normal party, Calcutta would have perhaps looked like a tragically modern Gurgaon and the fertile, green plains of Bengal would be occupied by ugly industrial sheds!

Yes, I hear of how the state deterred the growth of industries and urbanization. But, one look at the lush green plains of Bengal and one can understand what a sin it would've been to trade the most naturally fertile land in India with industries. Of course, no debate about a city like Calcutta lagging behind in infrastructure, up-to-date transport and technology: it is a well-ignored front.

Somewhere, even if technological and economical progress lag behind, the state is visibly forward in thought and knowledge, perhaps by the very nature of it's people. Hope the future is now balanced in all spheres and going to Calcutta will still have a tinge of nostalgia and charm, coupled by a new wave...

Stress v/s Global warming

2010-01-13T13:56:00.002+05:30

The BMC has made pumping stations over 2 full-fledged parks! But never saw kids playing there anyways. Judging by the sudden increase in school student suicides, I'm not sure the immense pressure of the academic rat race allows them to use the park anyways...

The line between contentment, complacency, ambition and extreme expectations is very thin. Nothing is impossible, but how far should the envelope be pushed? Especially in the case of the young?

Shorshe Love

2010-01-13T12:36:00.007+05:30

The lonely piece in mustard sauce. (Courtesy: Ankan :) )

With clean hands, mix and mash with well-boiled rice and experience the delightful pungency of Shorshe in just the right proportions hit the palate and the nose.

After-effects: A tingling nose and palate + yellow finger tips!

Majority

2010-01-13T12:21:00.002+05:30

"Whenever you find Your self at the side of the majority it is time to pause and reflect"

- Mark Twain

Majority is mostly numbers. Majority is security; plainly avoiding risks. It is usually unquestioned acceptance, lack of opinion and blind following. The middle path between the Causeless Conformists and Rebels without a cause is less trodden...

Clothes' Size

2010-01-12T11:53:00.001+05:30

Losing weight to fit into better clothes or so that clothes fit me better?

Respect

2010-01-12T11:51:00.002+05:30

On the Tharoor-Nehru controversy; though cleared up very sternly and aptly, got me to think...

Respect does not necessarily mean 100% obedience and 0% questioning.

From today...

2010-01-08T01:31:00.005+05:30

New year, so a fresh thought for myself...

What you can do tomorrow, do today...

But most importantly...

What you feel like doing right now, should be done right away...

Past Decade Carry Forwards...

2010-01-07T17:43:00.003+05:30

The past decade saw the emergence of 2 big terms that will be carried forward into the next:

Global Warming: It's the most frequently used term connected to the sustainable movement, usually used when experiencing only hot weather flashes.

Size Zero: The obsession with the size and more importantly with the Zero-type continues. Young, old, educated, non-educated, everybody loves commenting on the fat becoming fatter and the thin becoming thinner as well!

I have a new found respect and sympathy for all celebrities, especially women, whose size and 0.1 fluctuations in it are everyday discussions on all forms of public media. The Size Scrutiny sadly gets more intense for everyone...

Aubergine...

2010-01-06T12:42:00.002+05:30

Now aubergine definitely sounds sumptuous and can actually be as well. The only non-Indian preparation I've tried is a pizza with aubergine and basil leaves which is a highly acquired taste!

But Baingan Bharta and Begun bhaja are definitely the most simple way to a tasty meal- Smoked aubergine, cooked with shallots and tomatoes, seasoned with select Indian spices and Sliced Aubergine marinated in turmeric, shallow fried in mustard oil...if you may :)

Okra

2010-01-04T17:32:00.002+05:30

Okra: " A Bhindi by any other name would taste as slimy."

Not that I particularly hate it, but even an appetizing name does not change the nature of a Lady's finger, unless of course deeply fried, a terrain that should be avoided at all costs presently!

Copy Right?

2010-01-04T11:13:00.004+05:30

On the overall debate between the producers of 3Idiots and the author of 5.someone, given the current situation, this is a good view .

As references, most Hollywood films that are even remote adaptations of novels usually do flash a very clear 'Based ON...'/ 'Adapted from...', right after the movie title. Strangely I remember DDLJ title credits even mention a seemingly trivial 'Tile Suggestd by...'

Given that there actually was a contract made and agreed to, to have the author's name at the end, I'm sure this case is legally rested.

However, for a movie like 3idiots, the very premise is the book. The author having lived that life and presented it as 5.someone . I'm sure, the story modifiers and screenplay writers, however talented they maybe, wouldn't have come up with an interesting premise like this on their own. Premise and Concept are very important to this movie apart from the whole filmy build-up which was equally wonderful.

2-3% of the book or 90% really does not matter. The very seed of the idea is legally borrowed and apart from some smart legal contract and bought copyright and money, it is plain ethical to give equal credit to the original, without which this movie would never have emerged!

Greatest Achievement!

2009-12-29T11:01:00.002+05:30

Almost skipped this in the previous post. But judging by my capabilities in Nov 2006 as seen here, my greatest achievement this year has got to be making chapatis from scratch !

As trivial as it may sound, I think this activity requires multiple skills and I have achieved a graduate, if not a Master's stage in the same :)

Needless to say, the nutritional benefits of this staple are many. And, as the 'end of the year' news suggests, it causes less "global warming" than rice as well; apart from rice being starch-rich, which is of more concern right now!

Wrapping up...

2009-12-28T17:45:00.019+05:30

Reminiscing over the past 363 days...

Beginning with the excitement and frenzy of the never-ending wedding preparations to the beautiful and rich ceremony- the Bengali way. Not to mention the best wedding food ever! Sadly being our wedding, we were the last to actually savour it.

Our wedding highlight was of course a then-toothless beautiful smile- Sinja. ADORABLE. The moment I saw her first I realised how tiny she was, contrary to her blown up image on Skype, though many times cuter!

First visit to Bangkok: A vision and a will for an international city come to life in South-East Asia. Of course a skywalk from the metro takes you straight into a mall, making it very clear- SHOP, SHOP, SHOP! The giant of an airport, with more shopping, leaves you in awe- though planning and efficiency can be 100 times better for the space that it occupies.

Phi Phi: Memorable and cherished not just coz of the nature of the holiday, but also the high standards for a medium scale resort on a remote island. Phi Phi Leh remains the most picturesque Sea destination I've personally seen- Bangkok and Phi Phi definitely beckon...much later though.

Calcutta: 5th visit and 1st long stay. Enticing, charming, heart-breaking. Artful and Old-world, sadly not an ideal professional base for now. Home calls and we are more than ready for a visit anytime!

Bombay! : Home!: Work brought us here and we are glad. The Love/ Hate relationship continues with her. Though have come to realise how and why this and only this can be the financial and commercial capital of India- for good and for bad.

Our own place, thankfully within the island city as of now and, hope the real estate prices favour us for the next as well.

Basant Utsav@ Shantiniketan: Marking the beginning of spring has never been so colorful, warm and culturally abuzz. Allow the university town of Shantiniketan to wind you back decades with its earthy and authentic charm.

Swa: Just begun, hope to stay afloat and advance!

Weight Loss: The love affair continues with the gym and it's dietician! " Maithili!...Where are you? Haven't seen you for a month again!!.." I think she has been the most haunting person for this year.

Friends: Geographical boundaries changed yet again, bonds thankfully remained same. As much as great loves are touted, great friends are as difficult to find!

Kailash Temple at Ellora : Was too young to understand this architectural marvel when seen first. In awe, the second time. This and Adalaj remain my favourite monuments- The sense of space is awe-inspiring: Complex yet simple, Ornate and still not ostentatious.

Movies: Inglorius Bastards tops my list for this year- Slick, sharp, stylish in every sense! Love Aaj Kal was an overall favourite for it's fresh approach and simplicity. Julie and Julia was one of the most charming movies. Dev D turned every convention on it's head and presented the vanquished Devdas in a new hot pink light. Ranbir kapoor proved to be a revelation and rounded off the year with the plain, simple and heart-warmingly earnest Rocket Singh. Though many say this was a dismal financial year at the movies, I think it was a year in which many first steps were taken in interesting new directions which will only flourish in the future.

Eating out: Nothing's impressed as much as Afraa, Calcutta, in all it's formats. Superior standards in service and food, ideals soon vanishing in the ever-popping new restaurants. Worst experience this year being Salt water cafe, Bandra: Allergies + Meagre portions + Badly cooked mediocre tasting fare= No Thank you!

Events: Chandrayan and it's little discovery on the moon- though no follow-ups to that amongst all the inconclusive news rubbish of the year.

Turn of the decade: Marked by Twitter, making quite a few headlines by making headlines on it; it marks a very interesting direction. Boundaries broken, it has lent a new transparency. SMS to Twitter, communication mediums have evolved through this decade- What's next?

Enjoyable...

2009-12-28T13:10:00.002+05:30

3 idiots starts on a silly exaggerated note and leaps into a fun, enjoyable ride for the next 3 hours. As the film winds through the life at the cut-throat engineering college, there are portions that seem contrived for more drama and dialogue. However, it never loses touch or deviates entirely from the story.

It is heart-warming at times, funny and palpable the next. It is a joy-ride with little exaggerated bumps for maximum effect and it works!

Kareena Kapoor surprisingly fits well and is pleasant, contrary to the trailers, sort of remotely sticking to her glamazon image, which I personally like. Boman Irani gets away from his oft- repetitive self and is perfect. Sharman Joshi out of the 3, is the most underrated and is great at playing goofball to heart-breaking.

A good film, with the essence of 5point someone in the right place. Fun all the way, probing the system, conventions and self at times and ending on a fun and highly picturesque note.

The Tragic Vane Post...

2009-12-23T19:14:00.002+05:30

To actually not shop for the longest time and to finally find a pair of shoes just right, to also have the adequate funds for the indulgence and only not to have my size in that particular size- TRAGIC!

The new Idiot Box!

2009-12-15T13:30:00.002+05:30

Idle Sunday, surfing through the multitude of TV channels with multiple of 'bad to worst' programmes to watch, turning the TV off , I move back yet again to the new Idiot Box- FB!

Rocket Singh

2009-12-15T13:08:00.003+05:30

Slightly slow but never dull, Rocket Singh is an earnest film. The film reflects the clear intentions of it's writer and director and their conviction in making this hugely simple film about a simple, clear-hearted yet ambitious person.

Idealistic and honest, with socialist undertones without preaching about it in anyway, it is a hopeful movie that leaves you with an optimistic air- Worth a watch

Calcutta Food Diary

2009-12-11T12:02:00.007+05:30

Food is an area, where Calcutta may not have too much competition.

A must-have food/ eating experience list, most of it only available in Calcutta AND the best in the country :

1. Devilled crab in the era gone-by@Mocambo.

2. Sipping Cappuccino with a side of Cinnamon roll ,anytime @ the classic- Flury's

3. Thin Crust Pizza @ Afraa deli, though many may argue it is Fire'n' Ice, but they may have never tried Afraa- It is the best I have ever eaten.

4. Pucchka @Kankurgacchi or any old, traditional Bong pucchka guy.

5. The very Indian Momos and Masala Thumbs up @ Goutam's.

6. The Overwhelming Chicken Pavlograd @ Mocambo: A wonderful and sumptuous version of an A La Kiev.

7. Chicken Envelopes@ Kookie Jar: They melt in the mouth.

8. A truly fine dining experience @ Afraa: All hotels can take notes from it's superlative service and standards.

9. A chic afternoon spent at the Street Cafe' @ The Park on Park street.

10. A special place: Dining on the Hooghly between the two magnificently colossal Bridges @Floatel, ideally preceded or followed by a ferry ride under both- BLISS!

Bengal Ambuja- Impressive!

2009-12-11T11:25:00.003+05:30

Traveling to Calcutta always feels like traveling back in time. Along with trams, early colonial architecture and post comprising of an array of architectural styles, it truly is a treasure. Of course, no one seems to value it or importantly maintain it.

It is the only metro in the east, itself less exposed and thus the many drawbacks as well. But strangely, what it does well, it really, really does well. Eating out in Calcutta is a pleasure and almost disappointment-free. Be it the grand old classics, the new-bees and even street-sides.

As I depart from Calcutta airport, it is as irritating as usual-complete chaos. It a always a big spoiler at the end and I have only expletives for this one. As I finally hover above and think of progress here: there they are! City centre2-New town and City Centre 1, easily recognizable due to their clean layouts.

And strangely, here in the land of slow progress, lies the best post-independent architecture, the best in recent times. All thanks to one group- Bengal Ambuja. Having visited 3 Hospitality properties and 1 residential- they are the best I have been to in their category.

In a time of the obvious malls, City Centre broke convention and now with City Centre 2, they have re-invented again. Udita- a residential complex can be a valuable lesson to all the Hiranandanis, Lokhandwalas, DLF's, in what a well planned, luxurious complex actually means.

Hope in this case the rest of the country catches up with Bengal Ambuja's sensibilites...

Funniest error!

2009-12-07T15:39:00.002+05:30

It happened the 4th time over today. Same person, same place, same misinterpretation of the name!

" Prince of Whales Museum, Mumbai!!!!!! "

... I think I should inform the said person at least now! ;)

Pseudo cool!

2009-12-07T11:01:00.005+05:30

The promos have been bombarded on TV beyond the point of tolerance. Finally it releases and rids us off the torture on TV. Came across an apt and interesting review which I'm sure is true of this unseen film...

R A D I O !

Precious...

2009-11-12T11:25:00.003+05:30

It's amazing how she's grown up so soon!... From a tiny tot to a now mischievous toddler. But , she always does manage to find things her size and scale... :)

Sinja and baby pumpkin in an adorable pic...

Unable to...

2009-11-10T15:47:00.008+05:30

Develope a taste for...Brown rice -ugh!

Harped for its nutritional benefits and closer to it's natural avatar than its heavily polished white cousin, I just do not seem anywhere close to develope a liking for its sticky-chewy bite, unappealing colour and coarse nature...

Unusual weather afternoon...

2009-11-10T15:42:00.010+05:30

The hot, sticky yet dry yesterday seems to be far away today...

Grey clouds, a gentle drizzle and the hugely unavailable cool air...

Contemplative

2009-11-05T15:03:00.001+05:30

" I went to a poor school with rich teachers.....no! really!!"... R.A. Mashelkar at TED.

Nouveau- Patriotism

2009-11-05T13:43:00.004+05:30

This term actually kicked off while reading a weekly magazine column on a leisurely Sunday. Somehow it has kept on resurfacing every now and then, since the column. It echoes through sensible TV journalists, friends, even VJ's and sometimes facebook!

It is perhaps a new strain of patriotism thats emerging out of being comfortable in your skin in post-independent India. As the "colonial" hangover fades away in most parts, a new pride seems to have set into being 'Indian'. It's not 'shouting-from-the-rooftops' kind-of patriotism that was very evident in the 50's or 60's, immediately after independence. It is silent and subtle yet strong in flavour.

It is more wholesome, it's not about hailing India in isolation, but emerges out of a well-informed mind. It is knowing that we may well not be a superpower, nor the next, but have the capability to get there and will.

It is also perhaps a phenomenon that's more common in the 2nd and 3rd generations , post-independence. The generations that have seen the country grow. Socio-economic extremes still exist and will for a long time. But from a" poor country of slums, elephants, snake-charmers and the like", every Indian knows that we are more than just that. Today we are growing over the guilty, shy, inhibited phase and taking pride in our identity as Indian.

A sample: link to TED India - First session November'09.

Getting back to the column, it was called London Diary by Vir Sanghvi. While talking about his itinerary in London, he starts talking about Indian food in London. Sampling various Indian restaurants, he writes,

" I think I will have to disagree with Namita about London being the capital of Indian cuisine. This may have been true some years ago. But now Indian restaurants in India beat the hell out of anything in London. Forget Bukhara or Dum Pukht – I doubt if many of these London chefs would be allowed to cook in those kitchens – but even the Masala restaurants of the Taj group are immeasurably superior to Benares. And by the time you get to Varq or Indian Accent, the contrast is so great as to be meaningless.

I mean no disrespect to the Indian chefs in London. They cater essentially to people who know nothing about Indian food and who believe that if spice levels are reduced or if the gravy is placed below the meat, this marks a huge advance in Indian cuisine. Which is fine and what’s more, it seems to work. They get Michelin stars and the likes of Atul Kochhar and Alfred Prasad of Tamarind are media stars. As an Indian I am proud of their achievements.

I’m just glad that I don’t have to eat their food"

Further signing off he adds,

"On the way back I switched to Jet Airways and was glad I did. Jet must have the best First Class on this sector. The beds are comfortable, you can shut the shutters and turn your seat into a cabin, the TV screens are enormous, the wines are first-rate and the service is so warm and welcoming that you wonder why Indians even bother with foreign airlines.

Our private airlines may be in trouble but there’s one thing you’ve got to concede. They have erased memories of Air India’s sloppiness and have proved that given the right opportunity, Indians can run airlines that are easily as good as the much-praised carriers of south east Asia.

And the Indian food was much better than anything I ate in London."

Having faith in the author, it is not an opinion blindly built. It is well-analysed and then put forth. It's not necessarily bashing the other or praising oneself. It is knowing India as it is, believing in it and letting the pride speak for itself...

Bombay..

2009-11-03T11:58:00.002+05:30

" I'm going to Bombay in the afternoon."

It's a rather volatile word to use right now. But it's not just an erstwhile name of Mumbai as we now know it. For the greater Mumbai of today, Bombay still means the business district at the southern tip of the island...

Opinion?!

2009-11-03T11:55:00.003+05:30

We are being fed with so much much readymade data, that we have stopped analysing, processing and synthesizing information and form an opinion that is actually our own. All I hear are echoes from somewhere!!

Charming

2009-10-29T14:09:00.002+05:30

Swa

2009-08-07T13:44:00.003+05:30

Products and Jewellery

Lady Jamshedjee Road...

2009-07-05T17:31:00.006+05:30

Finally captured a year after spotting it...

2009-07-01T19:59:00.004+05:30

The arguments against and for it will be validated only with time. But

finally the city and India gets a post-independent public icon!

The inauguration was viewed by many who thronged the sea-fronts

between Bandra and Worli. Though scope of more grandeur and

finesse was possible, it still was a proud little moment when the city

actually watched together a happy moment…

The 70's

2009-07-01T19:14:00.007+05:30

In times of 'recession', I guess chocolate is being heavily consumed as

comfort food. Hence, Cadbury's comes up with not one but two

full fledged new concept ads for reinventing their 'Kuch Meetha ho

Jaye' theme.

Love the production design of this one especially!

Delhi 6 and Dev D

2009-02-26T11:22:00.002+05:30

Dev D is perhaps what every film student aspires for, but is cut short of his dream project. Thankfully Anurag Kashyap is allowed to let go and he gives Devdas a radical twist! Camera work, music, performances and the whole treatment is novel to Indian cinema. A very interesting, strong and bold movie, which will evoke strong reactions.

Delhi 6 starts on a very earthy note and is promising till the intermission, after which it stretches a not so strong feature too long. But in the first part it presents Delhi with authenticity- sets, Delhiisms, people- all come alive. It is an insider's view and it shows. It reflects the vibrancy of our people and exposes how fragile we are- that is something this movie can be applauded for.

The kaala bandar track is way too stretched, but then, as I switch on any news channel and browse through all, it doesn't seem that exaggerated! A good reflection of us.

The Bangkok Guide of Quirks

2009-02-22T16:44:00.003+05:30

Bangkok's most celebrated day : Valentine's day!

Bangkok's serious obsession: Dressing up!

Bangkok restrooms are full of: Women putting on make up!

Bangkok's favourite high: Cheating, ofcourse!

Slumdog

2009-01-26T01:20:00.003+05:30

I was quite excited about this movie and there are no favourites involved, so this view is not biased at all. The movie starts on a promising note and the city of Bombay is captured well, with the little Jamal who is the most endearing and heart-warming element of this film.

The whole journey of the kids is well-shot and narrated and their transformation scene into teenagehood is the last brilliant thing in the movie. After this point, the movie mainly loses its grip because the hindi-speaking slum kids start speaking fluent English with an added British accent. The accent seems authentic but the portrayal not.

Its understandably made for an international audience, in which case Slumdog Crorepati would be a better choice to watch for the Indian audience. Through all its promos, I did not think it was a big deal that poverty was being shown so explicitly. After all, it is a big reality that we live in.

Sadly the movie on the whole succumbs to cliche's and is shot by a foreigner's camera- the ones that catch all the cows, snake charmers and dhobhi ghats. It is like going to New York and shooting only the shadiest parts of Brooklyn. But this is a pardonable point- in a way good, that we feel really embarrassed at our parallel reality. (Though I would hold it against Lovleen Tandon who is the assisstant director for saying on TV that the "middleclasses" have a problem as they do not want to show poverty and hide it- disillusioned I guess!)

Apart from all this, it is not one of the best movies I have viewed. Largely manipulated, highly filmy, with average performances and a musical score that isn't exactly AR Rehman's best! It seems aggressively marketed and well-orchestrated to suit international audiences. Perhaps, this is just a reaction to expecting too much from a film that's been sooo wilddddlllyyy appreciated.

Underrated Brilliance

2008-12-30T20:47:00.004+05:30

It has been quite a few months since it released, but thankfully I did finally choose to watch Mumbai Meri Jaan as soon as the DVD was out. And I am more than glad I did, or else I would have missed the best movie I’ve watched this year- just in time.

I am surprised this movie has gone unnoticed, without the genuine applause it truly deserves. Perhaps, it is also the state of mind at this time that adds on to the effect. I would definitely recommend a viewing.

The story is about 5-6 different characters and their life on and around the 7^th July train blasts in Mumbai in 2006. The stories run parallel and intersect without being gimmicky- very well interspersed.

The concept and the storyline are very strong and each and every small character is very well written. The brilliant bunch of performances only accentuates this true and best cinematic tribute to the city. It is not an over-the-top, preachy tribute; its more matter of fact and brutally real- just like the city. There is no sugar coating, yet there is an undying hope.

Paresh Rawal, Irffan Khan and KK Menon lend way too much realism to their characters. Easily the best acting I’ve seen this year. Vijay Maurya as an angst ridden cop Kadam is extremely good. So are Soha Ali Khan, Madhavan and almost every other actor.

The film triumphs because it presents Mumbai like never before in the media. It exposes the sometimes inhuman and heartless way we and the media handle such incidents. It also talks about fears, guilt, and unity-all without any heavy dialogue. It’s plain, simple and real.

Not to mention the end. It mixes pride, angst, respect and hope- everything that you feel after such unfortunate incidents, especially in this city. It truly encapsulates the “spirit” of Mumbai, without defining it, or glorifying it. The end note is truly moving- a Perfect Ode.

http://mumbaimerijaanthefilm.com

Because there will be no other...

2008-12-23T01:08:00.002+05:30

Just re-watching this song after so, so long brought back the delight and wide-eyed admiration for her...unmatched!

Likable

2008-12-17T21:13:00.002+05:30

Rab ne bana di jodi is a movie that seemed very warm and likable from its promos. The first half an hour was immensely enjoyable with Shahrukh Khan playing the simpleton with endearing perfection with a lot of cute and goofball moments.

But, after its 30th minute, the movie just slips and loses sense and vision. It is a tale about an ordinary couple and it 's writing is just ordinary. Within the given story, this is the best way the movie could be made. You feel like liking the movie further, but it just loses its appeal.

The main reason for dismay being the other character played by Shahrukh Khan called 'Raj'. It's such an unnecessary and garish character that he fails to hold fancy. If only, this character was completely omitted and a sensible way could be devised to get the girl and her simple husband together!

Within the given premise, it is the best this story could be made. It definitely has a very authentic touch and that seems to touch somewhere. But, other than that, it is ordinary, except for Surinder Sahni's portrayal : well-nuanced.

Tracking down

2008-12-03T12:47:00.001+05:30

I've never made an effort to follow up with any events once they are out of news.
It is sad that something really needs to strike real close and hard, but this is a small effort to be aware: FOLLOW-UP

Throughbred

2008-12-03T11:46:00.002+05:30

This assault was ghastly need not even be mentioned. Not only Bombay, but the world is aghast I'm sure.
Here is a touching account that I'm sure anyone who was born in Bombay and eventually grew up in Mumbai would easily relate to. It states the situation here as it is: For the very first time, everyone is affected and I hope it wouldn't be put aside and forgotten.

Enough is enough

2008-12-01T15:38:00.002+05:30

As I return after 3 days back to the city, all I see is hoardings after hoardings at every 5 meters paying tribute to the 3 very important police officers who lost their lives. The appreciation for the NSG finding no mention, of course.
The names of the police officers smaller and the names of the political parties larger, it seems more of a mockery than a tribute.
This video is as blunt and straight-forward as everyone wants to be right now...

Yes we can?

2008-11-28T10:34:00.004+05:30

As the Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, yet again delivers his sagely mumble on TV, maintaining a calm of the Buddha. I search for at least a speck, a particle, a little sign somewhere of aggression or determination or the very least, a regretful expression, an agitated energy... It's a lull; this calm and silent demeanor only irritate further...
Why do we pretend like it's not a big deal?

Lovely...

2008-11-25T10:37:00.000+05:30

A refreshing and light ad film amongst hordes of others filled with social messages, heavy emotions or not so great humour...

Hotch-potch, blotch-blotch!

2008-11-24T18:26:00.003+05:30

For the uninitiated, the work for a sky monorail has commenced. The first route cuts right across centre of Ambedkar road from Parel to the end...
The show has only begun...

Bombay cannot even wear Bata!

2008-11-24T18:17:00.004+05:30

Cheesy as it may sound, walking up and down the horrendous footpaths everyday, leaves me with just one thought.
This work of digging out and 'patch' repairs is on since 3 months now. First the roads, now the footpaths, its tough not to fumble and break even the sturdiest ugly pair of shoes thats a must while walking in the city- quite an adventure without heading out to the hills...

Straight and fair...

2008-11-04T01:59:00.001+05:30

An open letter

Cheap Sensationalism

2008-11-03T23:32:00.015+05:30

Fashion, err...rather anti-fashion is yet another 'real' film belonging to the typical 'realism' brand of its director. Crude in its portrayal and predictable to the end of its 180th minute, the movie is merely an amateur expose' on an industry- the director obviously knows little about.

But he knows all the salable, juicy tit-bits that generally float around. Yes, we all know the voes and vices of many a model and its flashed about a hundred times now. So, throwing open the doors backstage, we see models with a glass of wine in one hand and a fuming cigarette in the other, each. A highly judgmental and typical opening!... Indian girls drinking and smoking?!..Horror!

So, a naive, struggling model from Chandigarh enters into the big bad world and is swallowed right in till she has abused herself in every possible manner and is exploited till the last shred of her recognizable soul disappears - that's the basic premise and story of Fashion- a mockery and so, so typical. As Elle puts it- A skewed view of their industry...

The movie is sure gaining a lot of empathy over all, perhaps because it echoes what everyone has heard about the big, bad and ugly world of Fashion and reassures them of their fears- and ugly it definitely is-Madhur Bhandarkar's "Fashion". Its made on a whim when he saw the Geetanjali case and is shot in the same breath as that of Traffic Signal- utterly downmarket.

I do understand the movie was aimed at showing the dark side of a glamorous business, nothing in the movie is false, it is real, very, very real perhaps-but when one makes a real film, why is only the negative part so real? What's with the completely obnoxiously cynical view? All designers being gay, plagiarizers and all models high on something or the other. It's almost saying there is no talent or hard work-only drinking, smoking, sleeping, drugs-these four are the pillars of the movie.

While naming a movie 'Fashion', how about really understanding fashion and not hiring some B-grade stylist and giving the entire movie a grotesque look! Is it a license to be real ? Infact, a just title could've been 'Ek Showstopper ki Dastaan' or something...

The first part failed to hold my fancy, as the struggler became a supermodel and we were bombarded by amateur fashion shows and horrendous styling. Post interval it manages to hook on as the emotional quotient rises, but then again in the name of sensationalism and filmy antics, stretches further and refuses to connect.

Priyanka Chopra is definitely first rate. Kangana Ranaut perhaps is so convincing that I'd never ever think that she is sane- overtly neurotic. As many would argue that its showing everything real, I do not deny any of that. But for me its just another TV soap, high on drama and laying down two kind of women- the homely angels or the dark, evil vixens- so much for realism! Ofcourse, all the male models it seems had abandoned the industry, while the small town girl beat across the gruesome path...

The movie overall is too crude to be called Cinema-it just lacks finesse in every department- direction, lighting, camera work, sets, styling. Restraint on excitement to share gossip and being happily judgmental and generalizing as well as refinement in content on the director's part could've definitely made the simple tale more elegant and poised, than plain tacky.

An Opinion

2008-10-30T00:34:00.004+05:30

It was refreshing to see a Maharashtrian actually have an opinion and a stand on a much talked about debate!..Most of which mince words and essentially do not make a point, here is one that at least is an individual voice:
Devil's advocate

Transformation

2008-10-02T02:06:00.005+05:30

I heard the drums beat somewhere nearby and heard a few claps to the rhythm, and I was suddenly transported for a moment -it would be a burst of colour, noise and energy there.

I've been meaning to write this post for almost a month now, and do not want to sound overtly nostalgic as its not been such a long while away. This place, a place which exactly 3 years ago I may not have thought, I would reminisce about- I had my own doubts after all. Where was I going, what exactly was I learning, what's it doing to my background?

As I've spent my last few academic months there, every time I've entered it's gates with ease and a sense of belonging, its felt like a huge privilege. I've had my doubts, grudges, misgivings about it, some I may still carry, but it is not potent enough to outdo the precious time I've spent there.

Learning is a huge term, it encompasses far more than mere subscribed courses. The things I've absorbed are large and assorted, the perception I've gained is a transformation I wouldn't have imagined had this place not come into my life. The doubts cleared, the questions answer themselves, an experience that has enriched me in every possible way.
- Young Designer 2008 :)

Young designers 2008 ... Now waiting for convocation :)

Riveting : A Wednesday

2008-09-28T01:24:00.003+05:30

An intelligent plot that is a reflection of the angst of almost every person in this city and country, A Wednesday is a film that keeps you pinned to the seat right till the end.
It's been quite a while since it's release and the appreciation is perhaps so strong that it has been an unsaid understanding not to reveal it's plot.
Needless to say, the performances are gripping, be it the stalwarts in the lead or just about anybody- Jimmy Shergill and Amir Bashir are very impressive.
Also, the police is presented in a relatively positive light - a good balance of the thorough professionals and the complacent bunch.
A good film with riveting performances and direction, though the desperation may or may not be understood universally-bad for the film, good for the world!