the vice men say...

Rudyard Kipling's Poem ''If'' Read By Federer & Nadal

2009-06-09T11:52:00.000+08:00

Via Sethu

Simon & Garfunkel's Asia tour - 2009

2009-05-21T02:25:00.003+08:00

Check out the tour calendar here.

I'll be visiting their hometown around those dates! :P

Wishes

2008-08-28T17:55:00.002+08:00

How do you define Success?

2007-10-11T18:02:00.000+08:00

This could be an MBA app question ;) but I found it posted on LinkedIn.

Has the definition changed today? Comments most welcome...

In 1905, Bessie Stanley wrote:

"He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much; who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of little children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; who has left the world better than he found it, whether by an improved poppy, a perfect poem, or a rescued soul; who has never lacked appreciation of earth's beauty or failed to express it; who has always looked for the best in others and given them the best he had; whose life was an inspiration; whose memory a benediction."

Aide et Action Experience

2007-10-02T21:55:00.000+08:00

Between the 8th and 16th of September I participated in Aide et Action's (http://www.aea-india.org/) EduAction Thematic workshop (http://www.aea-india.org/events.htm) held at the National Institute of Rural Development, Hyderabad.

My previous experience building boats for the tsunami affected fishermen in Thailand had me asking a lot of questions concerning the design and management of interventions for creating sustainable livelihoods (SL).

Key reasons I attended the workshop:

1. Need for structure - what are the pillars of SL interventions? How does one design and manage the intervention?
2. What works and what doesn't - learn from the experience of others in India and the region
3. Network - know more about the NGOs/INGOs operating in India and the nature of projects they are involved in

Here is a glimpse of what happened:

The workshop brings together 150 people from various NGOs, INGOs (international NGOs), Government and Research institutes. And stray cases of strangers to the field – like me!

The themes include:
· Quality Education through Community Participation
· Inclusive Education: Approaches and Strategies
· Promotion of Sustainable Livelihoods
· Management of HIV/AIDS: Approaches and Strategies
· PRA and Participatory Research

I was part of the 30 odd Promotion of Sustainable Livelihoods group.

We spent the first 3 days getting to know the participatory tools and models and simultaneously meeting key people from organizations running SL programs in various parts of india – BASIX (http://www.basixindia.com/), Marketing And Research Team - MART (http://www.martrural.com/), Rural Development Trust, etc. The programs cover everything from financing, market development, natural resources management, capability development and institution development.

I am interested in the area of micro finance and hence decided to study BASIX closely and chose to visit the villages where they have rolled out their products (savings/ credit/ insurance/ advisory/ agricultural business development) under the banner of Krishna Bhima Samruddhi bank. KBS has two mobile branches running out of vans. Field executives have mobile devices that help them bring the services to every doorstep in rural India.

The real awakening comes during the field visit over the next 3 days when you get to meet the field staff from the different organizations and most importantly their rural customers - the agri-dairy farmers, weavers, small business owners, among others.

After the back-breaking ride to six sites in the district you come back and put it all together and a rich discussion ensues – with people bringing in perspectives from different NGOs working in different parts of India. Models collapse, theories evaporate and you get a glimpse of reality – what works and what doesn’t.

My takeaways:

Apart from finding structure, seeing models at work and networking with the NGO community of India I have been greatly inspired by the quality of people I met and their enthusiasm to bring about positive change. People have come to the field of social development from all walks of life – engineers, defense personnel, civil servants, bankers, housewives, you name it! And they have contributed immensely to the field and to the communities they work for and in return accumulated a wealth of knowledge.

But they all unanimously agree that the single most effective agent to bring about change remains the government. NGOs by themselves do not have the resources and the reach to design and implement holistic programs as done by the Indian government. In the light of the complexities of issues being addressed you can commend the progress the government is making. Of course, much remains to be done. There is a huge pool of funds sloshing around. The need of the hour remains quality leadership and management talent, of course with a big heart to give back to the community.

Here is a link to the photo album:

AeA 2007 Hyderabad

If you want to know more and get access to some of the workshop material then feel free to drop me an email.

rain

2007-08-28T15:10:00.000+08:00

it rains as it rained that day
it rained then in celebration
it rains today to dilute
it rains today to cleanse

there and back

2007-08-20T13:05:00.000+08:00

Bromo and Ijen

Photos from my trip to Mt. Bromo and Kawah Ijen in East Java, Indonesia.

Date: 8th – 12th August 2007

Details:

Both the places can be reached either via Surabaya or Bali. I flew into Surabaya and then taxied up to Probollingo (small town near Mount Bromo) and then up to Yoschi’s which is a small budget hotel with little bamboo/cane walled rooms (around 150k IDR per night). Food is good, ambience is great, friendly staff who can arrange day trips to Bromo or other nearby places (including arranging bus/ferry to Bali - Trips are marked up 10-20% though) and provide maps for local treks (2-4 hours around the valley).

First two days were spent riding up the edge of the caldera to watch the sunrise over Bromo and Semeru, riding up to Bromo on an old horse (25k IDR), trekking in the hills around, and drinking warm wine. Trek difficulty – easy.

The next two days were spent driving eastward to Kawah Ijen – the sulphur lake. First stop on the way was at a coffee plantation where we stayed the night and continued the journey to the base of Ijen the next day morning. The trek up to the sulphur lake is scenic and peaceful if you start early. Mist and fumes make photography a challenge! Trek difficulty – medium-easy.

Enjoy the photos and drop me a note if you need more info!

Cheers!

lose yourself

2007-08-06T04:15:00.000+08:00

all the best, baby

atoms for peace

2007-07-19T02:47:00.000+08:00

Artist: Thom Yorke

Album: The Eraser

Year: 2006

Title: Atoms For Peace

Lyrics: Click Here

A Scanner Darkly

2007-07-18T00:48:00.000+08:00

What happened? How did i get here?

[Bangs his head into a cabinet door]

The pain, so unexpected and undeserved, for some reason cleared away the cobwebs.

I realized I didnt hate the cabinet door, I hated my life, my house, my family, my backyard, my powermower.

Nothing would ever change, nothing new could ever be expected.
It had to end and it did.

Now in the dark world where I dwell, ugly things and surprising things and sometimes little wondrous things spill out at me constantly, and I can count on nothing.

Another monologue I loved from the movie, A Scanner Darkly:

I saw death rising from the earth,
from the ground itself,
in one blue field.

[picks up a blue flower]

A present for my friends...
at Thanksgiving.

Quirk: The title for the book/movie is derived from this passage from the Bible in 1 Corinthians 13:

For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is
perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. When I was a
child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but
when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass,
darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as
also I am known.

almost there

2007-07-12T00:45:00.000+08:00

the scene

2007-07-01T03:50:00.000+08:00

Another night under the probing beams that weave new stories into the canvas of smoke swirling into the dark high ceiling. The joint changes hands. Goes from strange lips to mine and I add my own lyrics to the song written in smoke. This need to escape into a world without the haunting noises, the futile questions and the inconvenient truth. To con the inebriated mind into believing that these walls don’t exist, this floor doesn’t exist, this animal stench doesn’t exist.

A multitude of lights giving form to the skyline. Twinkling lights from the cars on highways that rise above a river ambling into the ocean. Highways that dissolve into a gaggle of neon lights. Each light whispers a story, a dream, a sigh from the few million lives that make this city. A glass wall mutes the scene.

I never knew this scene would evoke such feelings for this city. This is not home, it wasn’t supposed to be. And yet like a river flowing quietly it awaits below. You can sit up here and just watch. Or you can let your feet slide in and feel the pulse flowing between your toes. Will you dive in? Will you keep your head above the waves?

A roll of the dice. One life in this lifetime aborted. Another life begins without any preface. Whose turn is it next to roll the dice?

The nomad stands at the crossroads again. A bag over his shoulders bursting with memories. Some to be lost, others forgotten.

A new street in this old city. A new smile as I stride into the crowd.

The game is alive as long as you are willing to play.

The Rebel XTi

2007-06-19T01:24:00.000+08:00

A birthday gift in advance!

Canon Rebel XTi (10.1 MP)

Canon EF-S 18 - 55 mm F3.5 - F5.6 II lens

Canon EF 50 mm F1.8 II lens

:) :) :)

the call

2007-06-14T13:22:00.000+08:00

so much i wanted to hear
and so much i wanted to say
but you took me by surprise
when you called yesterday

its been so long
we have lost so much
flesh and bones are ashes
yet the soul remains

so much i want to hear
and so much i want to say
when you call me again, someday

Bubbles

2007-05-27T17:40:00.000+08:00

I had posted the lyrics for this japanese song before. Just found the video on YouTube. Lyrics here:

The sea's so wide
You can't see anything.

The waves build up slowly, then break.

There are little bubbles everywhere.

They're born, and
shine sparkling in the sun.

They move about slowly,
floating and sinking.

They kiss, become one,
and then they float apart.

They slowly grow, then they burst...
...and sink back into the sea.

Somehow...
Somehow...
They are just like us.

Lyrics (translated) from title song of Japanese movie Visitor Q

Iyer

her eyes

2007-05-17T01:39:00.000+08:00

will i dive
into the flaming amber ocean?

Kudos

2007-05-02T14:10:00.000+08:00

Machee has done some great work recently with Aide et Action (http://www.aea-india.org/). You can check out his blog posts at http://adityaraghav.blogspot.com/

Good stuff dude!

Iyer

the gift

2007-04-17T01:27:00.000+08:00

a special day it is today
and here I am, empty handed, nothing to say

swear, I thought of many a gift
confounded I was, coz none would fit

and then it dawned, the ideal present
no other comes close, as much as I try
your woes of aplenty, hope this will erase
I give you your gift as I wave goodbye

Iyer

Rhetoric

2007-04-06T12:51:00.000+08:00

And who's the fool who wears the crown
Is it the fearless idiot facing the crowd?
Climbing his own way

And if all roads led to Rome
Is the long road the wrong road
'Coz life is too short?

And if no one ever spoke a word
Is the scream silent or the silence loud?
All mouths stitched in time

But the scream is silent
And the silence loud
The dance is a pirouette
Spinning round and round

A fiery dream consumes me
A candle awakens me
A wind blows through me
A tomb awaits me

Saigo

Happy Birthday!

2007-04-02T13:15:00.000+08:00

3potties turns 2...

queen of hearts

2007-03-30T01:18:00.000+08:00

What strange hands in the game
Where the heart betrays the face
No more a fool in vain
But one that fell from grace

Like segues to a requiem
He waits for a change
In silent harmonies he dreams
In colors of orange

Close your eyes, close your eyes
The sun's a fire and burns its night
Lesser stars they fill the skies
More the madness more the fright

Proud willows crown the beaten brow
Refrained by murders of crows below
Cold was the heart swift was the blow
The head was bloody and yet not bowed

The queen of hearts throws her cards
Keeps her winnings counts her loss
Heals the wounds never the scars
Here's the effect, where's the cause?

Saigo

Love

2007-03-26T22:10:00.000+08:00

Hey You

2007-02-24T16:58:00.000+08:00

Hey you, out there in the cold
Getting lonely, getting old
Can you feel me?

Hey you, standing in the aisles
With itchy feet and fading smiles
Can you feel me?

Hey you, dont help them to bury the light
Dont give in without a fight.

Khao Lak, Thailand

2007-01-28T12:21:00.000+08:00

Khao Lak

Photos from my trip to Khao Lak in January 2007.

Iyer

Sparkling Singapore

2006-12-21T23:21:00.000+08:00

"It’s not that Singaporean cattle don't shit. It’s just that there are a lot of dung beetles to do the magic!"

Iyer

(Inspired by a show on Discovery)

2nd link bridge run

2006-11-30T23:26:00.000+08:00

Mamoo and me

Machi, mamoo and me

Rob and Sebastian

My timing

Cambodia in October

2006-11-14T11:21:00.000+08:00

Cambodia

We stood atop Phnom Bakheng and watched the setting sun spill orange over a sea of lush green tropical forests. The towers of Angkor Wat rose above the green mesh and glowed.

Standing there, we were at once aware of a power supreme. The power of human will spurred by the craving to leave behind unmatched legacy. The power that chipped, chiseled and breathed life into rocks. A dizzying spectacle of human creation.

Standing there, we were aware of another power. That of nature, waiting and watching from all around. Ready to smother all that we surveyed with her ageless arms.

Iyer

Hindu at the Helm?

2006-09-26T16:13:00.001+08:00

Shashi Tharoor, a writer and diplomat, is vying to be the first practicing Hindu to serve as U.N. secretary general.
Interview by Visi Tilak

Shashi Tharoor is a prolific writer--nine books, in addition to many articles, op-eds and literary reviews--and is the recipient of several journalism and literary awards. And that's in addition to his day job as the Under-Secretary-General for Communications and Public Information at the United Nations. Now, Tharoor is looking to take on an even more demanding role: He is running for secretary general of the U.N., and if he wins, he'd be the first practicing Hindu to lead that organization. Tharoor says he hopes to bring change to the United Nations; quoting Mahatma Gandhi, he says, "You must be the change you wish to see in the world. What is true for individuals applies also to institutions. The U.N. is no exception. If we want to change the world, we must change too.” Tharoor recently spoke with Beliefnet about his faith and how it empowers him.

How does faith shape a person's career and life? Or does it?

It does, if you have faith. For some, it’s merely a question of faith in themselves; for others, including me, that sense of faith emerges from a faith in something larger than ourselves. It’s what gives you the courage to take the risks you must take, and enables you to make peace with yourself when you suffer the inevitable setbacks and calumnies that are the lot of those who try to make a difference in the world.

Describe your faith and religion? What do you like most about your religion?

I am a believing Hindu. Hinduism is uniquely a religion without fundamentals. We have an extraordinary diversity of religious practices within Hinduism, a faith with no single sacred book but many. Hinduism is, in many ways, predicated on the idea that the eternal wisdom of the ages about divinity cannot be confined to a single sacred book. We have no compulsory injunctions or obligations. We don't even have a Hindu Sunday, let alone a requirement to pray at specific times and frequencies. What we have is a faith that allows each believer to reach out his or her hands to his or her notion of the Godhead. A faith which uniquely does not have any notion of heresy--you cannot be a Hindu heretic because there is no standard set of dogmas from which deviation would make you a heretic. Here is a faith so unusual that it is the only major religion in the world that does not claim to be the only true religion. I find that most congenial. For me, as a believing Hindu, it is wonderful to be able to meet people from other faiths without being burdened by the conviction that I have embarked upon a “right path” that they have somehow missed. I was brought up in the belief that all ways of worship are equally valid. My father prayed devoutly every day, but never used to oblige me to join him: in the Hindu way, he wanted me to find my own truth. And that I believe I have.

So many of the problems in the world today are a result of people’s beliefs and their faith. The role of faith ought to be to bring peace and happiness to the world, but is that really happening? What is it about yours or any religion that troubles you the most?

As U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan once said, the problem is never with the faith, but with the faithful. All faiths strive sincerely to animate the divine spark in each of us; but some of their followers, alas, use their faith as a club to beat others with, rather than a platform to raise themselves to the heavens. As I said, Hinduism believes that there are various ways of reaching the ultimate truth. To me, the fact that adherents of this faith, in a perversion of its tenets, have chosen to destroy somebody else's sacred place, have chosen to attack others because of the absence of foreskin or the mark on a forehead, is profoundly un-Hindu. I do not accept these fanatics’ interpretation of the values and principles of my faith.

Are you currently a practicing Hindu? Do you visit temples? Why or why not?

I believe in praying every day, even if it is only for a couple of minutes. I have a little alcove at my home in Manhattan, N.Y., where I try to reach out to the holy spirit. But I believe in the Upanishadic doctrine that the divine is essentially unknowable and unattainable by ordinary mortals; all prayer is an attempt to reach out to that which we cannot touch. While I have very occasionally visited temples, I don't really frequent them, because I believe that one does not need any intermediaries between oneself and one’s notion of the divine. "Build Ram in your hearts" is what Hinduism has always enjoined. If Ram is in your heart, it would matter very little what bricks or stones Ram can also be found in.

Members of Rationalist International, an Indian-dominated forum for "rationalist ideas and positions of world-wide concern" have asked for the withdrawal your candidature, because of your belief in Sathya Sai Baba, the self-proclaimed saint who is very controversial but extremely popular. How do you react to that?

It’s difficult to take them seriously when they can’t get their basic facts right. I do not believe in Satya Sai Baba; the very article they cite in their attack on me is an article describing a visit to Satya Sai Baba with my mother, and I spell out very clearly in the article that she’s the believer whereas I’m a skeptic. My article made the point that in India, both infotech and spiritualism exist side-by-side. It seems to me an incontestable observation.

Inner satisfaction and peace is said to bring one closer to the divine. Describe the inner satisfaction and peace that you derive from working for the U.N.?

The United Nations has given me the opportunity to help my fellow human beings in the most basic way. For example, when I was at Singapore, early in my career with the U.N., the fact that I could put my head to the pillow at night knowing that things I had done during the day had made a real difference to other people’s lives, was immensely rewarding.

I could give you a number of stories from those days, but one episode crystallized my inner satisfaction: A Vietnamese family tried to escape their troubled country on a vessel powered by a dodgy tractor engine. It gave way in the middle of the South China Sea. They ran out of food. They ran out of water. They began subsisting on rainwater and hope. But that was not enough to feed the couple’s infant and baby at sea. So the parents slit their fingers for the children to suck their blood in order to survive.

When the family was rescued by an American ship, they were too weak even to stand; they had to be lifted on board. They were brought to Singapore, where I was running the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees’ operation. We rushed them to intensive care. To see that same family, three or four months later, well-dressed, well-fed and ready to embark on their new lives in the United States offered the kind of satisfaction that few jobs do. The U.N. is not simply a means of bureaucratizing our consciences; it truly works for a better world, and that’s why I’m proud to serve it.

And where else, other than the United Nations, can there be a truly global forum where ideas of faith or belief can be openly addressed in the context of their possibilities and dangers--including those inherent in their misinterpretation or misappropriation? Where else but the United Nations could all countries of the world have joined in a resolution to remember the Holocaust and resolve to work together to dispel hatred, bigotry, racism, and prejudice and to refrain from religious incitement?

In my own U.N. work, I was privileged to launch a series of seminars on "Unlearning Intolerance," where religious figures and scholars of diverse persuasions addressed questions including Islamaphobia and anti-Semitism. The discussion was free, critical, reasoned, receptive, and uninhibited. It is in restoring those elements to otherwise impassioned discourse that the true strength and uniqueness of the United Nations lies.

What do you believe is the essence of your faith? How can a Hindu bring a different and unique perspective to one of the most powerful offices in the world?

I take pride in the openness, the diversity, the range, the lofty metaphysical aspirations of the Vedanta. I cherish the diversity, the lack of compulsion, and the richness of the various ways in which Hinduism is practiced eclectically. And I admire the civilizational heritage of tolerance that made Hindu societies open their arms to people of every other faith, to come and practice their beliefs in peace amidst Hindus. It is remarkable, for instance, that the only country on earth where the Jewish people have lived for centuries and never experienced a single episode of anti-Semitism is India. That is the Hinduism in which I gladly take pride. That is the essence of my faith, and that’s the perspective from which I would seek to serve in an office, which must belong equally to people of all faiths, beliefs and creeds around the world.

Wish

2006-09-23T19:05:00.000+08:00

And these are the days I wish I had u

When eyes well up in unknown angst
When reason you can’t find
When questions abound

These are the days I wish I had u

When all I need is the look in your eyes
When all I need are those words unsaid
When all I need are those shoulders

These are the days I wish I had u, my friend

Iyer

Visitor Q

2006-09-14T22:22:00.000+08:00

The sea's so wide
You can't see anything.

The waves build up slowly, then break.

There are little bubbles everywhere.

They're born, and
shine sparkling in the sun.

They move about
slowly, floating and sinking.

They kiss, become one,
and then they float apart.

They slowly grow, then they burst...

...and sink back into the sea.

Somehow...

Somehow...

They are just like us.

Lyrics (translated) from title song of Japanese movie Visitor Q

Iyer

Triathlon Photos

2006-08-15T00:27:00.000+08:00

Get, Set, Go!

Bike

The Finish

What's next?

Iyer

Photos courtesy: Panda & Nidhi

NUS Triathlon 2006 - Outswim, Outbike, Outrun

2006-08-13T23:07:00.000+08:00

and I did it.

Iyer

Alex's Bday - II

2006-08-12T17:33:00.000+08:00

Red Robbie

Honduran cigar

The puff

Iyer

Alex's Bday - I

2006-08-12T17:28:00.000+08:00

Ayako n Lolly

Kerstin in bliss

Still in bliss

Anu, Kerstin n Maamoo

Iyer

The Mermaid Party

2006-08-12T17:12:00.000+08:00

Alex

Ammu and Alex

Kerstin n Me

Iyer

At Momos

2006-08-12T16:59:00.000+08:00

Dt: 22nd June 2006

Iyer

That place

2006-08-12T16:53:00.000+08:00

Machee revisiting that sweet spot at Momos!
Dt: 22nd June 2006

Iyer

My Backpack

2006-07-29T13:46:00.000+08:00

I got a Vaude backpack as a birthday gift recently - best gift ever.

Stats

Vaude Formula 60 I M

Metrics: 58 x 34 x 20 cm / 66 x 32 x 18 cm
Weight: 2800 g / 2900 g
Model number: 14614
Colour: d'grey/jeans

Well the next thing is to take some time off and go on a long backpacking trip!

Being in Singapore you often see cash rich or carefree or passionate westerners hop around the region with bulging backpacks smelling of exotic earth.

Wish I can take off on such a journey before it is too late! So let me now busy myself with learning how to pack for a backpacking trip!

Iyer

NUS Triathlon 2006 - Outswim, Outbike, Outrun

2006-07-26T21:19:00.000+08:00

I have taken the plunge and registered myself for the NUS Triathlon 2006! So has Machee!

Category: Short Distance
Swim: 0.3 Km
Bike: 10.0 Km
Run: 2.0 Km

Training: Day 1
Run: 4.0 Km
Swim: 0.2 Km

Things to do
Buy a good pair of running shoes

It is going to be a lot of fun if I manage to swim those first 300 meters in the sea! :)

We'll know soon.

Iyer

Hard evidence

2006-07-19T11:03:00.000+08:00

Richard Boucher, a mid-level functionary of the Bush administration, "advised" India to rely on hard evidence before drawing conclusions on the Mumbai terror attacks! TOI article>>

What HARD evidence did they have when the US attacked Iraq? What about 9/11 - Osama took credit much after the large scale offensive by the US against Taliban.

The only HARD and inappropriate evidence US ever had was against Bill Clinton!

Boucher goes on to say:

"The terrorists that we're fighting against have been fighting against Afghanistan, been fighting against Pakistan, been fighting against the US, been fighting against Europeans, and maybe some of them fighting against India, as well,” he said, almost grudgingly including India among the list of countries affected.

I hope this really was the case, and India hadn't lost countless civilian lives in Kashmir. And I hope he will realize soon how damaging a two-faced anti-terror policy can be!

Iyer

Obituary: Syd Barrett

2006-07-12T00:17:00.000+08:00

Strange, I remembered Barrett this evening - only to find out he passed away a few days ago.

Iyer

and death... whispered a lullaby...

2006-07-02T02:18:00.000+08:00

the grin of a drunk woman...: and death... whispered a lullaby...

Malaysia

2006-06-24T11:23:00.000+08:00

the grin of a drunk woman...: Malaysia

The Constant Gardener and the hideous weed

2006-05-08T01:07:00.000+08:00

A PANEL of Nigerian medical experts has concluded that the world's largest pharmaceutical company, Pfizer, violated international law by testing an unapproved drug on children with brain infections at a field hospital. Read>>

And watch this movie - The Constant Gardener - superb acting and a haunting sound track.

Iyer

How Opal Mehta Got Caught, Got Publicity, and Got a Little Fortune

2006-04-29T16:43:00.000+08:00

You could claim the title is plagiarized but no one would care because I am not as famous as Kaavya Viswanathan, her novel How Opal Mehta Got Kissed, Got Wild and Got a Life or her publisher Little, Brown and Co.

A friend of mine, Ranjana (stillmotion.blogspot.com), sent me this link earlier this month(requires log in):

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/04/06/books/06opal.html?_r=2&oref=slogin&oref=slogin

The New York Times was full of praise for the young and upcoming writer and her two book deal with Little, Brown and Co for a reported half a million dollars, followed by a movie rights deal with DreamWorks.

The reason Kaavya caught my attention was not just because she was a curd-rice loving third or fourth Tam-Bram cousin of mine (it’s possible), but because the theme of her novel was something fresh, contemporary, and something I could relate to.

It is hardly two weeks since and we find her being slapped ruthlessly and led up the sacrificial pyre.

See: http://www.thecrimson.com/article.aspx?ref=512948

Ok, so what's the big deal in copying, that too blatantly, a few paragraphs from somewhere else? After all there is the remainder of the big novel to be cherished. What’s the big deal if she did imitate, in style, the writing of one of her influential authors - Megan McCafferty?

Imitation is basic human nature. It starts from mitotic cell divisions, to the baby learning to speak, and the young adult getting the same hair style as his or her Bollywood idol.

"For God sake man, be original!" they scream. What they really mean is: imitate so many different people that we can’t put a finger on any one!

Imitation is life preserving. We see, experience, and learn to imitate simple day-to-day acts that ensure we are alive and well at the end of each day. Just imagine – if Mowgli chose to be original and protested from suckling the motherly vixen's teat – would there be a Jungle Book?

Imitation is time saving. And this might have been one of the reasons why Kaavya plagiarized parts of her novel. Time pressure imposed by school work, and more so, by the demanding publishers who need to get their product out in the market when the buzz is going around. What was the editor doing, btw? And don’t they use sophisticated software to run submissions through databases of copyrighted material of similar genre?

Imitation, some say, is a good way to improve your skills. Does any one remember the movie Finding Forrester? William Forrester (Sean Connery) helps Jamal Wallace (Rob Brown) improve his writing skills by giving Rob the title and the first paragraph of his own older works and asking Rob to give it a new twist and life. Chip Scanlan says it’s a great way to improve your writing skills! For example my poem – Strangers – has strong roots in Robert Frost's The Road Not Taken. My inspiration would have withered without Frost’s help on structure and rhyme.

What Kaavya needs for her folly is a good spanking (from Mamoo, a good friend and a self-acclaimed top-class spanker). Good spanking and nothing more. For, I see her as a little kid who got into the wrong company - too soon. Central to this whole saga is just pure money. Offer Ms. McCafferty a certain percentage of the book royalty and all will be well. People will move on.

Instead people are making it very personal for Kaavya – from questioning her writing skills to what effect it'll have on her career.

And this is where I see the other basic human nature – thrill seeking from seeing another human being disgraced and shamed. Thrill in seeing people fall, people suffer and people die.

When people make mistakes we go all out to get them and burn them alive (think Bill Clinton, think TT Durai). When faceless corporations make blunders, at times intentional and with profit driving the decisions, we give them a cursory glance and move on (think Union Carbide and Bhopal).

I don’t know how the events around Kaavya will unfold. We'll all see in the following weeks. One thing is sure, the publicity received, though negative, is bound to result in increased demand for the "original, un-cut" version, as well as the new and upgraded version of the book.

The publishers will capitalize on the shaming of a human and make a good fortune. Hopefully some of that fortune flows down to scapegoat - for, in this world, all wrongs can be righted with a few wads of green.

Iyer

Sitcom?

2006-04-19T02:26:00.000+08:00

Dialogue with LKY

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-1409818981384963003&q=lee+kuan+yew&pl=true

Iyer

Annavru - big brother

2006-04-17T03:18:00.000+08:00

This surely isn't Annavru Dr. Rajkumar at his best, but it sure is funny.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KIcA4aV86Sg

Smile and pray his soul rests peacefully. He has given a lot to his industry, entertained and inspired 3 generations.

I'll miss his yearly "special TV appearance" on Rajyotsava to unite all those who were touched by his movies.

Iyer

the vice men say...

A pottie year

2006-04-03T02:29:00.000+08:00

Today is a special day. 3 potties turned 1.

By that I mean we turned a year old. Of course, somewhere along that year, 3 potties also turned into, just, one pottie.

3 potties - the result of a drunken late-night orgy of thoughts and feelings, of desires and dreams, the plain stupidity and tomfoolery. Aptly named too. And it turns one today and I can’t help feeling nostalgic. The good old times when expression wore a new cloak. The excitement of it all!

3 potties has been a place to get away to. A place where you can run up to and shout out loud or sit with your head on your knees and whisper. Ripples of thought resonating with yours. Strands of feelings caressing you. Strange emotions given wings. If this is the only way I can touch you, so be it.

It’s time to thank the audience. It’s been a fun first year – thank you.

To the other potties – wherever you are and whatever you are doing – just remember this: you were a pottie once, and a pottie you’ll always be.

Iyer

Goofy Google

2006-03-21T15:02:00.000+08:00

The image below is of a Times of India article. You can see the Google Ads displayed after the article. Wonder if the law student can sue Google for this!?

Iyer

Juices

2006-03-18T17:31:00.000+08:00

its been a dry dry season.
not a single creative thought.

need to get the juices flowing.
any suggestions how to?

Iyer

Goodbye

2006-02-19T20:23:00.000+08:00

There are wounds that heal if left alone,
Wish I had known.
It was a selfish sport with a deadly sword.
You lay bare and let me prod.

I have to run now from the gory scene,
Leaving the job half done.
Lest I decapitate you, as a favour,
And put you out of your pain.

Sometimes you get used to doing wrong,
Till it bothers you no more.
Trampling over sunny hearts, their wishes,
Their trust so pure.

Humans have a conscience, they say,
Which speaks in hours of quiet.
Showing right and wrong, it leads you on
A path of true merit.

But I am an animal, a selfish one,
A horny billy-goat.
Conscience left me long ago,
With a very sore throat.

It’s goodbye for now, Let me leave,
So you see another day.
If ever you meet this bastard again,
Slit his throat, right away!

Iyer

Funny Notice Boards

2006-02-09T11:46:00.000+08:00

Having come across this “Funny Notice Boards” forward from a friend, I am reminded of a joke shared by Mr. Navyug Mohnot, CEO of QAI, during the recent Outsourcing Exchange at Suntec City, Singapore:

A notice board in one of the fenced IT/BPO parks read thus -

PRIVATE PROPERTY.
TRESPASSERS WILL BE RECRUITED.

Iyer

Eyes full of dreams

2006-01-30T21:12:00.000+08:00

Lolly had recently posted a nostalgic piece on the changing face of Bangalore. This change, not just in Bangalore, but in the whole of India has been a much talked about subject with the Tiger (and Dragon) stories firing the imaginations of everyone from poets to economists to the paani-poori wallas. It is a great ego boosting tea-time story about my able brown-skinned brethren (some like Machee are excluded) and their exploits.

During one such tea session a fellow teh-tarik fan quipped “Is this change good for everyone?” I really don’t know. I am just happy knowing my garden city which turned into a pub city is now India’s IT city. People on the roads of Bangalore are all happy and smiling. They sport branded clothes and accessories. All sorts of faces have appeared. All sorts of tongues fly and fill the evening sky with murmurs. The street corners were once the exclusive haunts of Kannada Kanmanis. Then came along the idli selling friendly thambis, followed by diamond seeking Goltis and not to be left behind thrifty Mallus who brought the omnipresent smell of coconut oil and Gulf money. But that was in the beginning. The cohort now extendes to the Punjabis, the Bongs, the Marwaris, the Jats, the Banias and even the mongoloid brothers from Assam, Sikkim and Tibet.

That’s the interesting thing about Bangalore – it is like an India in itself. Like India it invites everyone and somehow makes them proud Bangaloreans rather than dividing itself into ghettos. But this post is not about the greatness of Bangalore. Let’s get back to the original thread – the wave of change and growth Indian cities are undergoing – and whether it is really good for everyone.

With such a festive atmosphere it can only be said that all are happy and change is good. Just see the smile on these little kids. They are 260 kilometers away from Bangalore and their eyes are already full of dreams of the great life ahead. The following picture was taken during one of my treks in Coorg when my brother and I lost our way and ended up in a village. We were in search of certain “leaves”, but that’s another story I’ll keep for later.

Of these 5 cheerful monkeys I remember 3 names – that’s Harish with the raised tyre, the tall Pratap in the middle and Darshan with his arm over Pratap’s shoulders.

“Kelaginda photo baruttha? (Does the photo come out from below?)” Harish turns around to ask me. Bugger has seen too much TV or he has met tourists with Polaroid cameras before. I try and explain that I need to print them later.

“Namge photo kalustheera? (Will you send us the photo?)” He grins with anticipation. Of course I will I say and I look around to see where I can send it. The village comprises of less than a dozen huts of varying sizes. Who do I address it to and where do I send it? I can’t see any street names or house numbers.

“Neevu worry maadbedi Uncle! (Don’t worry about that Uncle!)” Darshan assures me his dad works as a security guard at the resort downhill (where we were staying) and he would pick it up from them. Well that was simple enough, I could do that, but only if they stopped calling me uncle. After a few trials they managed to incorporate “Anna (brother)” in the sentence and they even lead us back to our trekking trail.

Those happy fellows and their angelic smiles! I am yet to fulfill my promise.

A surge in wealth in Bangalore has resulted in a lot more weekend tourists visiting Coorg. These little kids and their village see a little more action and hopefully some more money from the resorts that are springing up all over. So growth in the city spills over with farm produce getting better prices, better roads being built to ease the city travelers, increased mobile connectivity and all the other goodies!

But is this phenomenon a minority? Why do we still hear cases of farmers in Andhra Pradesh committing suicide when monsoons fail to arrive on time? Why is there resurgence in the Naxal movement? Is Deve Gowda right after all? With “India Shining” do we expect the farmers to have eyes full of dreams as they go to bed on an empty stomach?

Iyer

Rang De Basanti

2006-01-29T11:57:00.000+08:00

Great things inspire, like a great movie, well even a good one for that matter, like Rang De Basanti.

With shame though I recall a Hindi poem we learnt in school where the poet derides the “Living room warriors” who get charged up reading novels of revolutions – brandishing the heirloom sword they run amok in their warm rooms, only to shed a few drops of sweat before they crash into plush sofas for a nap. The poet compares them to pans made of tin – which get hot in an instant and lose it all the moment it is removed from the fire. I am ashamed to feel such patriotism, after a movie, a patriotism which didn’t show a few days ago when India celebrated its Republic Day.

Well, guess there are two kinds of Indians – one who make and move India, and the other – like me – who sit and watch and bathe in borrowed glory. May be there is a third kind.

Watch the movie.

Iyer

Calcutta Calling

2006-01-23T06:42:00.000+08:00

A story of 3 American girls adopted from Calcutta and the journey back to to explore their roots.

http://www.pbs.org/frontlineworld/rough/2006/01/india_calcutta.html

Iyer

Wannabe Salesman

2006-01-18T14:10:00.000+08:00

An entertaining email received by my company from a NUS undergrad looking for a sales position.
Love his enthusiasm, and that’s all there is. There was no resume attached.

Iyer

Dear Sir/MS,

This is Xxx Zzz from NUS, Singapore.I am currently a year one student of chemical engineering, but I am very very keen in sales and business.I believe in that a man who can do sales well can surely get a lot of money and achieve his goal of the life.For me, my main goal in life is to become a great salesman(which also allows me to have my own business), and earn 1 million dollars(the lowest amount) by 26(currently I am 20).

Since you are a start-up company as I know, I am wondering if I can join your team and we together make a better future for tomorrow.

My advantage is that I have very very strong desire to be successful and is a strongly self-motivated people, which I believe is needed greatly in any field of business.Besides, I am crazy with learning and love the feeling of making myself knowing more and more.I make goals for my daily life, school life as well as my business life.So I believe I can soonly adapt to your company culture and attribute to your company business as soon as possilbe once I joined in your big family.

Looking forward to your answering,
Thanks,
Xxx Zzz

Tum Itna Jo...

2006-01-18T07:15:00.000+08:00

I generally don't get senti, at least not in Hindi, but I was listening to some songs from Reggie's music folder and "Tum Itna Jo Muskura Rahe Ho" from the Hindi movie Arth started playing. And i got senti, so i am posting the lyrics.

Iyer

PS: If anyone requires translations then let me know!

Hindi Song Title: Tum Itna Jo Muskura Rahe Ho
Hindi Movie/Album Name: ARTH
Singer(s): JAGJIT SINGH
Listen This Song on Gayaki

Hindi Lyrics:

Tum Itna Jo Muskura Rahe Ho
Kya Gham Hai Jisko Chhupa Rahe Ho

Aankhon Mein Nami, Hansi Labon Par
Kya Haal Hai Kya Dikha Rahe Ho

Ban Jayenge Zehar Peete Peete
Yeh Ashq Jo Piye Ja Rahe Ho

Jin Zakhmon Ko Waqt Bhar Chala Hai
Tum Kyon Unhe Chhedhe Ja Rahe Ho

Rekhaon Ka Khel Hai Muqaddar
Rekhaon Se Maat Kha Rahe Ho

Tum Itna Jo...

Big B-ullshit

2006-01-17T00:45:00.000+08:00

Big B may revisit Tirupati to offer ornaments worth Rs. 100 million for having recovered from a recent surgery. TOI Link.

Why not donate the money to CRY or similar organization which really needs the cash? Might even get some tax benefit out of doing that!

Your thoughts welcome.

Iyer

On "The Birth"

2006-01-13T11:03:00.000+08:00

A very good friend of mine who is too shy (i think) to post a comment on the blog sent me this email:

Hey Dude,

Almost didn't say anything because I couldn't put my finger on why I didn't quite think that it was brilliant. Imagery was great and the thing pans out slowly and nicely. Something kept bugging me though. True that I could not relate to the emotions but I knew that wasn't it. I gave up and started looking around your blog when I came across this:

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

Her face rose as angelic as it had set,
unblemished by star-light.
A view so divine,
even the moon lingered a while longer

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

And for some reason I popped up the comments and saw "A let down after The Birth! :) " and then it hit me (I don't know why the comment triggered the thought). "The Birth" was missing on impact unlike the one above where the last line gives me something I wasn't expecting and I go back to read it. "The Birth" takes me through the whole process and I glide along but I don't remember it when I'm done.

Well, if you think I analysed the thing to death then do not read the post script.

Reggie

P.S.

The first time I read it I realized the rhyming was forced, I mean here:

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

Wide-eyed and cold lying in the rust,
The babe divine, swaddled in blood.
“Breathe my dear, breathe my child,”
“May the night with your cries be flood
-------------------------------------------------------

and here
-------------------------------------------------------

It was almost as though all was lost
When this strange glow did spread.
The infant shone like the naked sun,
And the beasts trembled with dread

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

Anyway I've always thought: Why rhyme :)

Plus, there isn't an emotion I could relate to so wouldn't be an all time favourite of mine :)

Reggie Falange

...

And I agree with him. First, guess I shouldn't try to force myself to complete a poem. Complete it in the same sitting or just post the half-done verses. Second, don't water down the climax!

Thanks for your comments Reggie!

Iyer

Happy New Year!

2006-01-01T16:00:00.000+08:00

Wishes from the vice men.

A Memory

2005-12-31T20:16:00.000+08:00

Her face rose as angelic as it had set,
unblemished by star-light.
A view so divine,
even the moon lingered a while longer.

Iyer

The Birth

2005-12-29T05:37:00.000+08:00

I had a dream few weeks ago where a strange scene played out in vivid detail.
I got up and penned half of this poem immediately. The rest of it took excruciatingly long to write and I nearly gave up. Well, a splash of dark mood churned out the rest tonight.
A little long, a bit rough and a few days late!

The Birth

The smoky moon and the dust-grey clouds
On a somber march in the starless sky.
Death pale beams light a parched earth’s crust
Unearthing bones that scream out “Why”.

A scorching wind like the dragon’s breath,
Is born in the bosom of the dark mountains west.
Bringing a hint of burning metal, of flesh,
And faint whispers of souls that never rest.

A rumble erupts turning into a roar,
And out leaps a train with a blazing mane.
Speeding on tracks that have long been gone,
Lurching and scarring the barren plain.

The virgin lies sprawled on the rusty floor,
Pregnant with life from spring unknown.
The swelling grows with impatient life,
Clutching her belly she lets out a moan.

In the orange glow of the burning train
The dead army rises like mist from mire.
Lusting for blood they rush for the feast,
Swarming the train and fanning the fire.

The train shudders as the beasts crawl all over,
Slaves to the Dark Lord, with hearts of lead.
The voice of their master booms loud in their ears:
“Before his first breath, he must be dead!”

Warm droplets roll down her knotted brows,
As she heaves and pushes with her knees wide.
Gripping the blooded head, she coaxes the life,
With a yank and a tear she lays him aside.

Wide-eyed and cold lying in the rust,
The babe divine, swaddled in blood.
“Breathe my dear, breathe my child,”
“May the night with your cries be flood.”

The army stands a whisper away. The voice
In them grows shriller now “Go for the kill!”
The mother continues to stroke the child,
Murmuring those soft prayers still.

It was almost as though all was lost
When this strange glow did spread.
The infant shone like the naked sun,
And the beasts trembled with dread.

The scorching light grew big and bright
A mushroom of mountain height.
Engulfing the beasts, the train, the bones,
It turned each to ashes white.

The land with mountains that yore was dark,
Now bathes in holy light.

The stars come out of their hiding,
And in unison they sing:

Silent night, holy night,
All is calm, all is bright
Round yon virgin mother and Child.
Holy Infant, so tender and mild,
Sleep in heavenly peace,
Sleep in heavenly peace.

Iyer

Stupidity

2005-12-12T17:04:00.000+08:00

Here is the poem titled “The Leader” that was taught to Pakistani college students. The first letter of each line spells out the American President's title and name! The heights the Pakistani administration would go to show support to the Americans! Though it has stirred up controversy and the education ministry has removed it from the books, it is strange how such substandard poems could be considered to be a part of college curricula.

The Leader (author: anonymous)

Patient and steady with all he must bear,
Ready to meet every challenge with care,
Easy in manner, yet solid as steel,
Strong in his faith, refreshingly real.
Isn't afraid to propose what is bold,
Doesn't conform to the usual mould,
Eyes that have foresight, for hindsight won't do,
Never backs down when he sees what is true,
Tells it all straight, and means it all too.

Going forward and knowing he's right,
Even when doubted for why he would fight,
Over and over he makes his case clear,
Reaching to touch the ones who won't hear.
Growing in strength he won't be unnerved,
Ever assuring he'll stand by his word.

Wanting the world to join his firm stand,

Bracing for war, but praying for peace,
Using his power so evil will cease,
So much a leader and worthy of trust,
Here stands a man who will do what he must.

(Source: http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200512/s1525154.htm)

Iyer

A Tribute

2005-12-09T13:59:00.000+08:00

25 years and the world is unchanged.

All we can do is Imagine.

Iyer

The Creation Hymn

2005-11-30T03:41:00.000+08:00

It was in November 2002, a chilly evening in a crowded auditorium in Santa Clara University that I met Amartya Sen. There was something about him which moved me as he gave a passionate talk on globalization and poverty. As I stood shaking his hand after the talk I felt what it might feel like to stand in the presence of a divine being, to be doused in his aura, to feel peace and exhilaration in the same instant.

I am now in the midst of reading His collection of essays “The Argumentative Indian” covering Indian history, culture and identity strung together by the argumentative tradition. I came across a gem that I would like to share with you.

In an essay concerning secularism in India, Sen touches on the topic of ‘Skeptics, Agnostics and Atheists’ and religious skepticism expressed in the 3500 year old Creation Hymn from the Rig Veda:

Who really knows? Who will here proclaim it? Whence was it produced? Whence is this creation? The gods came afterwards, with the creation of the universe. Who then knows whence it has arisen?

Whence this creation has arisen - perhaps it has formed itself, or perhaps it did not - the one who looks down on it, in the highest heaven, only he knows - or perhaps he does not know.

This is a seductive verse. It agitates your mind and leaves you pondering on the question that has tormented man since the dawn of reason.

This version of the creation hymn is from a translation of the Rig Veda by Wendy Doniger O'Flaherty.

Iyer

A Quote

2005-11-20T00:33:00.000+08:00

"If a woman could completely fill a man...

The man must be really shallow."

Iyer

God

2005-11-12T09:40:00.000+08:00

As far as I remember, God, the super-natural’s existence and whereabouts never did appear in my entire schooling. It never confused me that at school Darwin took credit to explaining evolution while at home Brahma, the Creator, was behind intelligent design. Either I could clearly separate theology from science in my young mind, or, I was just incapable of such deep thinking. I was independently presented with the concept of evolution versus that of intelligent design. And the choice didn’t have to be mutually exclusive.

An amusing battle rages in America over the question of separating church and state and of introducing the conjecture of “intelligent design” in the schools. Some things we can never do in a clear fashion. At least not yet and one such is keeping the state free of religion. It is probably because we have gotten so used to ruling over the sheep by telling them each night that they better behave or else the wolf would come get them. But one thing we can do is to keep science and religion separate and do a favour to the future generations. It’s absurd to talk of God’s hand or leg in creation in school unless it is presented in a separate setting like theology or philosophy class and includes a mandatory disclaimer that the ideas presented are the author’s alone and stand as long as another idea doesn’t demolish the former.

Let us look at the Judiciary and the potential confusion God can create there. I came across this paragraph in a Service Level Agreement of a certain company.

How can you have such abstract concepts like “Act of God” in a legally binding SLA? If I do contest a case and the crux of it comes down to defining “Act of God” how would the judiciary be able to do this in a “fair” and “just” manner?

Ok, God may be omnipresent. Doesn’t mean you go and introduce him everywhere and anywhere just to prove your point! Let’s leave him out of some places – starting from SLAs, Constitutions and Club Momo.

Iyer

WTF?

2005-11-04T16:14:00.000+08:00

This week has been strangely frustrating.

To begin with, I was cursing myself for not having planned anything for the week dotted with days off. The Bintan trip just happened and turned out pretty good in fact. Still there is this feeling of rot and doing nothing.

But I am like the laziest bum in this part of the city and could always do with doing nothing, or so I thought.
And, now that I have been lying around in bed doing nothing for eight hours straight I have this weird PMS-like (a guess) feeling. I am actually frustrated with this bed and this not-so-comfy pillow and my groaning stomach.

Last week I wanted to pull away, take a bus to Johor Bahru and run away some place, just like that. That hasn’t happened.

I just want to feel totally liberated, totally free of this idle-man discomfort, I want to be on the move.

I better figure out something before I bite my finger off.

Frustrated Iyer

2005-11-02T15:36:00.000+08:00

Bintan Loola Cottages
Posted by iyer

2005-11-02T15:33:00.000+08:00

Sun Rise at Bintan
Posted by iyer

My Pottie moment of the year!

2005-11-02T13:15:00.000+08:00

Thought I shall re-collect the Pottie moment for me this year...

It was April Fool's day.... was ard 1am or so.. Iyer and I had just finished our nite out and were back at my place
and we decided to get Machee over too.. Machee stays milez away ( just in case you guys didnt know .. evn though Singapore is a small place and traffic is no big deal... he still stays far far far away from the city...)
I was like - No way this dude's going to get up and come to my place... I mean especially knowing he stays with his folks and especially If I am calling him... Here is a secret - Machee really has a partial feeling for Iyer... and if there is one guy who can change Machee's mind, thats Iyer! And theres no two ways abt it

But then we took the chance and believe it or not we spoke for an hr or so convincing him - abt how much it would mean to us him coming down - especially when both Iyer and I were too lazy to make bkfast next day in the morning or even a cup of coffee... and two is company and three is crowd... and thats better when on one bed :p

And the deal was we would pay for the cab... And so Machee gets up and just casually tells his parents sleeping in the other room, that he is going out. I mean 2 am your son just stepping out - which parent wont get mad at you....

Meanwhile, Iyer and I decide to make this even more memorable by refusing to pick his calls when he was reaching my home...

So there is Machee stranded with not enough cash to pay the cabbie and no where to go.... In fact the cabbie felt so much for Machee or did he feel Machee, we will never know, but he sure did waive Machee the outstanding...

The look on Machee's face outside my house - the anger, the anguish, the pain, the plethora of curse words blurting out in all possible and impossible permutations and combinations.. was simply soo soothing to the ears... and amidst all that animosity and acidity - we save Love, we saw Affection..... and we saw Machee!!

The rest of the night - we watched some movie... and as usual I dozed off on the bed... only to find Machee and Iyer talk about sex in the most pornographic way they could possibly do so... So much hat I just had to wake up and ask them to shut up!!

Machee's folks were obviously very pissed by his behaviour... so much that I stayed back at his place the next day to take on some of the parental assault! hahah two 23 yr olds guys - getting blasted for spending a night out togther .. talk abt this world being homophobic! hehe

I had a strange feeling then though - u know that things were going to change, our priorities were going to change soon..

But what the hell - the three of us having harmless fun at the expense of each other was priceless that night

and next day's cheese omlette - a Machee special was worth the shit!

There are many more -Our escapade with Godzilla look alike chic at KM8, Machee and I stranded at some god forsaken place at 3 am thanks to another Godzilla, Iyer and I at Ranjana's concert...

But none match this :)

Lolly

My New Blog home

2005-11-01T17:30:00.000+08:00

Pple

Its official. I have moved now to

http://lollysprakyshady.blogspot.com

Cheers
Lolly

Pottie - Moving out... but not away

2005-10-29T12:20:00.000+08:00

Have given this a thought and two; and I think the time has come for this pottie to move out.
I know its been a tough decision as 3potties gave me the base to relocate myself
and we had loads of fun blogging together.
And we shall.

I think its time now for me to blow-dry. And more than ever I will need you guys to help me through this transition in my life and ofcourse move out.

So lets get smashed the next couple of months this year and re-live some of the pottie moments.

Love yous

Till then,

Lolly

Lolly's turn

2005-10-17T15:00:00.000+08:00

Lolly,

Happy Hanky Birthday to you!

Looking forward to the party this weekend! ;)

Till then - thuttify...

Iyer

DVDs on Demand

2005-10-11T18:01:00.000+08:00

A few months back, I and Iyer were discussing about Netflix and how its business model was perfect for Singapore. It turns out that there are two online firms that have already emulated Netflix's model here in Singapore, namely HollywoodClicks and Homepal. I have just signed up for a 14 day free trial with Hollywood clicks. They charge a flat rate of 35$/month and you can borrow 3 DVDs at a time. I guess i can see for myself how well they have adapted Netflix's model to Singapore.

Machee

Nature's Fury

2005-10-11T10:40:00.000+08:00

Starting from last year's Tsunami to the recent South Asia earthquake, nature has created havoc and destruction galore. Asia seems the worst affected because of these natural disasters, although this has more to do with the high population density of the region. But otherwise her wrath has been rather equitable starting from floods in Latin America, hurricanes in north America, forest fires in Europe and droughts in Africa; no place on the globe has been left untouched. Most of these disasters are the culmination of years of abuse of Earth and her resources. This year serves to give us a chilling reminder of what might happen in the years to come. The time has come where quick action has to be taken not only by the big nations but also by individual people, to ensure that earth is not consigned to the pages of the history book for our future generations.

Machee

Race, Culture and Genes

2005-10-11T04:11:00.000+08:00

An interesting read brought to my attention by Nish.
The paper expresses the views of the author alone.

Lee Kuan Yew: Race, Culture and Genes

by Michael D. Barr
Department of History, University of Queensland
Journal of Contemporary Asia v29, n2 (1999)

Racism is rarely far from the surface of Asian societies, and this is especially true of those multiracial societies that feel the need to promote racial tolerance as part of official ideology. Yet even in these cases, promoting racial tolerance does not necessarily imply the promotion of racial indifference. Singapore's multiracialism, for instance, encourages a high consciousness of one's race even as it insists on tolerance. Read more.

3 Questions

2005-10-05T02:29:00.000+08:00

People change, seasons change (Singapore excluded) and so do the potties.

When we started the 3 potties saga back on the 2nd of April 2005 we thought we should be polite and all and introduce ourselves. This being a humble suggestion from Lolly (the perpetual showman). When I re-read that particular introduction, something jumped right out, like naked butts in a nun conference (for example lah). And I quote the description for Vice Man 1 aka Machee (the perpetual snowman).

“Who am I : Dreamy drooler, not sure at times if asleep or awake.
What I want : tender loving care and thousand different ways to get that
What I get : a pat on the back”

Well, well. Six months ago Machee was really like a snowman - with a hard carrot and bleak snow all around.

Something happened then. The snowman shrugged and in a blink he lost all - except the hard carrot - all that had kept him rooted in that loveless dessert. A couple of pounds of curly hair was shed and the snowman was off, like a rabbit, looking for green pastures.

Now what changed him and where all he wandered we may never know. The pace of change has left the other potties in the swirling dust (or snow). As I see him jump up and down various rabbit holes, I am reminded of a brilliantly funny dialogue by Vivek in the movie Anniyan.

He says “Poonai paal kudikumaanu partha, ingai beere adikarathe da!” - I wondered if the cat will ever drink milk, but I see it gulping down a beer!

In fact, our Poonai/cat is having two beers and there is no sign of the burp.

And while I wait, I wonder what the answers to the three questions are - Who is he? What does he want? And of course, What is he getting?

Iyer

About "Birds"

2005-10-03T18:00:00.000+08:00

The commercial opens with a breathtaking view at sunrise of the mystic Jawant Thada, the graceful marble cenotaph of Maharaja Jawant Singh II in Jodhpur. A little girl sees her brother packing for a journey. She runs through the village streets of Jodhpur, stopping at a stall to buy birds, to bring good fortune to her brother, who is embarking on a journey. Hoping to buy five birds but only able to afford one, she leaves dejected with her bird. The visiting tourist - Richard Gere - overhears this and after she has left, takes out his Visa card and buys all the birds from the stalls.

As the little girl is about to bid her brother farewell and release her single bird into the air, hundreds of birds suddenly soar into the sky behind her. The commercial concludes on a warm and humorous note, as Richard Gere and the bird sellers look away innocently, disclaiming responsibility.*

This ad is third in line after the one showing Pierce Brosnan whizzing through Bangkok in a tuk-tuk and goddess Catherine Zeta Jones going bananas in the jungle. The first two were funny but I love this new ad, especially for the rustic imagery created in the vibrant bazaars of Jodhpur, with a back drop of the Meherangarh Fort.

Last week, as I was heading to Suntec City with a senior Chinese gentleman, a Singaporean entrepreneur, we happened to see this ad playing on one of those big LCD screens. He looked at me and said “That ad is a lot of BS.”

“Why would you say that?” I asked. My boss and Pooja, a journalist for SVCA, looked up from the back seat as the Chinese gentleman continued.

“Well, I think it epitomizes the Westerner – the White man – as the World’s philanthropist.” He said. I was surprised by his comment mostly because I had failed to see this ad in the light he presented. I think the ad did a great job in reinforcing the idea that VISA is ubiquitous in terms of acceptance. I would have probably enjoyed it more if Amitabh Bachchan had been in Richard Gere’s place.

Pooja spoke up from behind “Indians don’t have the insecurity anymore!” The gentleman didn’t seem convinced and we changed topic as we headed into the car park. It did make sense. Indians I guess are bathing in the glory of “India Shining” and the White man is just another player in this level playing field.

Throughout much of the last 3 centuries Indians saw themselves under the rule of the White men (or women). Nationalized history has vilified them and we have all the reasons to feel wronged. Amir Khan belting the buggers in Lagaan did seem to put things right. But I don’t know if it’s my whetted confidence or indifference that didn’t make me see the other perspective.

But what made this gentleman insecure? I thought Singaporeans loved and aped the West. What do the younger generations feel? Does the ad risk falling in disfavor of most Asians?

Iyer

* From www.visa-asia.com

Pottie - Taking a Break

2005-09-22T15:03:00.001+08:00

I am going on a sabbatical from the world of blog and more...

till further notice.... keep writing and biting

Lolly

Strawberry

2005-09-16T05:33:00.000+08:00

People we meet in this world, are like fruits
come in different colors, shapes, seasons and roots

To me you are the strawberry
red and luscious, inviting yet very

Making me forget the champagne
the chocolates and the sweetness
the roses and the kisses
my worries and this life's in completeness

To me you are the strawberry
penetrated I have so many
some I remember, some I erased from my memory
waiting to be picked up,
to lose your color and more.

Lolly/Iyer

On the Dell Bandwagon

2005-09-14T22:18:00.000+08:00

The two potties Iyer and Machee have become the proud owners of dell laptops.

Three cheers to that and many more lap dances and tops off.

Machee

The Art of Kissing Classes

2005-09-08T09:25:00.000+08:00

Limited seats only. Enrol Now.........

Machee

Dil says

2005-09-05T23:02:00.000+08:00

as my heart for you grows fonder,
I ponder
on choices and decisions I make and made
that makes me wonder
where this journey of mine would take me
and you; with all things falling under
in place;by hook, by crook or mere plunder
as if this life is not short of any more blunder
and endless squander
of thoughts and time on you,for you
and all this I ponder
as my heart for you grows fonder

Lolly

What's up India?

2005-09-03T06:49:00.000+08:00

For people who regularly follow news from the Indian front it would not come as a surprise when I say that news sites like www.timesofindia.com have become increasingly difficult to navigate and read. These sites welcome me with innumerable pop-ups suggesting I head to shaadi.com to find a soul mate. Sensationalized sleaze masks all other topics.
Having almost given up and resigned myself to reading the mundane happenings in this brilliantly engineered city I was overjoyed when a well-read friend mentioned Indian blogs whose authors take the trouble to read multiple sources and post engaging commentaries.
I checked them out and found them good. Hyperlinks can be found at the right-hand bottom corner.

Iyer

The man turns 24!

2005-08-31T22:21:00.000+08:00

Dear Machi!

Many happy returns of the day!

May all your vice wishes come true!

Cheeeeeers.

Iyer

A Rod

2005-08-31T19:03:00.000+08:00

And he is my charmer on the tennis courts
And he is my bummer with those funny quotes
And he is my man for the right attitude
And he is my idol for desire and gratitude
And he is the reason I can stay awake all night
And he is the reason I stand up women with no respite

Andy is also the reason I celebrate tonight.

Happy Bday Andy Roddick and Addy Raghav!

Lolly

Tickle

2005-08-27T13:57:00.000+08:00

My mind tickles....
I am not like you;I am starting to like you
What if, I had not taken that flight back years ago; would it have hurt so much;so far;so long

my mind tickles.....
This is my life;And we owe it to each other
What if I had hid that kiss of hers in a cup years ago;Would I forget to kiss you;that very moment;when it arrives

my mind tickles.....
this lazy afternoon;and I have no flight to catch.and no kiss to hide.
I feel alive even if it doesn't hurt anymore

Lolly

Once up on a time

2005-08-24T23:45:00.000+08:00

A fren of mine from Philippines did this for me......Those locks, i miss them.

Lolly

About a Boy

2005-08-18T11:31:00.000+08:00

Boys I've known, Boys I've met

Boys have slept, Boys have wept

Boys dont cry, Boys dont shy

Boys dont fear, Boys dont cheer

Boys I admire, Boys that inspire

Boys that lead, in times of need

Boys I wrestle, Boys I play

Boys I hug and thug every day

But those are boys, and will remain so

To you I am that boy,the boy who wishes

to be among the den of real men

like you.

to bake the cake and eat it too.

To my cuz, on his bday.

Lolly

Strangers

2005-08-17T13:39:00.000+08:00

Two paths met in an amber wood, a bright day 'twas,
No frost, no rain, just plenty sunshine.
You walked up your path, and I ambled up mine.

We spoke of the weather, betwixt glances and nods. Strangers’ rituals
Soon turning to whispers and caresses of pleasure.
The magic of nectar had our hearts aflutter.

Don't count the minutes, just linger a while,
Just another hour, come here, let’s play.
Desires a thousand, my eyes could say.

But time and choices, like darts released,
Urge us to move on, on paths apart.
As strangers we met, and as strangers we depart.

iyer

(inspired by Frost, inspired by U)

Symphony

2005-08-07T14:35:00.000+08:00

in my sleep I can see us smile
in my sleep I can hear us laugh
in my sleep I remember our everything
I open my eyes and see people
I hear them laugh,cry and scream
I could sleep forever,
to forget my everything and everyone.
tonight.

Lolly

Coldplay X&Y Album Art Generator

2005-08-02T15:06:00.000+08:00

Check out this site:
http://homepage.mac.com/wysz/xy/coldcode.html

"iyer" was encoded as:

Looks like i am jogging with an ipod (color screen version) dangling at the waist!

Feel free to post your encoded names and interpretations.

iyer

nimisha maatrena - in the wink of an eye

2005-07-17T10:45:00.000+08:00

The water gushes around me for a wink
My blood rushes to the brain for a wink
The cold shivers my bones for a wink
My feet paddle in line with my fingers for a wink
The wind blows my fringes away for a wink
My lips moisten the dryness of my skin for a wink

I can see her smiling
on the other side of this river
for a wink

Lolly

Close Encounters of the Hairless Kind

2005-07-13T14:53:00.000+08:00

A incident that took place yesterday really gets me laughing, everytime I think about it. Well here I was, walking towards the MRT in a rather serious mood. As I was passing this 10 Minute Haircut saloon, there were a number of ladies distributing pamphlets advertising their hair-cutting services. While passing by, one of the ladies sticks out a pamphlet at me. I look at her quizzically for a moment. Then she slowly looks up and sees that I have no hair on top; she bursts out laughing. She also retracts the pamphlet which she was about to give to me.

I swear this was the funniest situation I have ever been in, right out of a Charlie Chaplin movie.

Machee

Sweden Anybody?

2005-07-13T10:45:00.000+08:00

I had almost lost faith in the power of democracy when this happened. Sweden has recently legalised looking up ladies skirts.

Read the article below for more details

By MARK MILLER

ADDING to its reputation as the most sexually liberal nation in the world, Sweden has just legalized looking up ladies' skirts!

In a nearly unanimous vote in the Swedish Parliament, the motion was carried 332 to 17. To celebrate the new law, the Parliament's second floor was replaced with a see-through glass floor, and women were invited to stand on the floor, wearing their loosest, widest skirts, with or without underwear. Men were invited to bring their cameras, stand on the floor below and look up.

"I was fully aroused for the next three weeks," gushes male viewer, Tor Lundgren, 24.

The women standing above the men were no less enthusiastic. "It was even more exciting than I'd imagined," reveals Christina Schollin, 32. "I chose to wear no underwear, and, well, I just felt this electric thrill run through me as the men stared up at me. I may just leave my underwear home from now on."

Lutheran minister Gunnar Bjoernstrand, 40, has made peace with the new law. "It was just a question of time before it became legalized. And, really, something harmless like this should not be a crime. Sex and the body are beautiful, natural things.

"When we appreciate and adore the body by looking up ladies' skirts, we are, to a certain degree, giving thanks to the creations of God, who after all made us in His image."

Machee

Yamunotri - My River of desire

2005-07-03T19:44:00.000+08:00

I hear the river, the river calls for me
All these years,the river froze for me
And the river never belonged to me

Yet,its only me who crossed it not too long ago
To find a heart, only to lose a feeling
A feeling so pure, A feeling I ignored
A feeling that can cure, the pain I abhorred

Now,the feeling is back and it feels so unreal
all those days of numbness seem to disappear
my senses have gained clarity
and my thoughts have separated the parity

and I am anxious and nervous
Like ever before,and yet never before
I'm watching my step, I'm watching myself
with hope in my heart and no dope in my mind

I am ready to cross the river again,
cos' the river now belongs to me.

The river that calls for me.

Lolly

Twenty-four years old and none the wiser.

2005-06-30T23:03:00.000+08:00

Birthdays are a good thing. Gifts and wishes apart, they are place markers in our story, with notes scribbled them, some highlighted, others scratched-over and re-written.

The thought of birthdays rekindles a multitude of memories. A day in 365 congratulating you for making it all this way. A day in 365 spurring you on for another round. God, so many memories, I am laughing silently as I think of the absurdity of this endeavor to put some of my gems in words…but I’ll try.

Zero
8:03am 22nd June 1981

I have absolutely no idea how the nurses looked and I have a solid case for not doing so – it was 8:03am for heavens sake. NOT the best time to be woken up, ejected out of the warm womb and spanked! No wonder I cried.

One
Morning 22nd June 1982

The incriminating evidence was captured on camera. I can see thatha (grandpa) holding me in his lap, dad has my head locked in his strong hold, mom is looking on helplessly as the strange man in the photo bores a hole in my earlobe. I still flinch with pain when I look at the little face in the photo and I still can’t understand why. “It’s our tradition”, say parents, but I secretly think they were never happy when the doctor announced they had a son.

There is a second picture - I am all puffy red-eyed, two gold droplets dangling from my ears – that’s cute little girly for you. Of course no one knew this gift would show its magic sixteen years later when the cutest girl in the Commerce section turned, somehow spotted the little dip and assumed I had got just this one pierced over the weekend! I smiled, winked and looked straight ahead.

Four
Evening 22nd June 1985

It was a bright summer evening when I received my first real gift; at least this is the one I remember. The box enshrining it left little to imagination. On it was the life size illustration of the LEGO machine gun. My adorable periamma (aunt) got it for me. Maybe this was her way of telling me the world was a bitch and it was never too early to master these weapons. Nobel thoughts, but back then I was still a non-violent Brahmin boy, strictly vegetarian too. Holding the rugged hard plastic, fingering the lethal trigger filled me with such power and uncontrollable passion that I took a strong stride forward and shoved the nozzle into periamma’s smiling face.

Since then she reminds me of the incident each birthday - of this gift and the near maiming of her pretty face. I adore her all the more now. Just wish she had given me a pen instead and told me about its power. Or just stuck to simple blow-it-yourself rainbow colored balls.

Nine
9th September 1990

A friend’s birthday for a change. The whole class had been invited over that evening. The little prince had a great party thrown: delicious food with exotic flavors, fancy games where everybody won something, jugglers from the Russian circus and even a white elephant for special effects. Almost all of that.

I pestered mom to let me wear my new clothes. A dashing white and red checked shirt with smart grey shorts. Sparkling white socks and gleaming black shoes. There are two things I remember about my new clothes then. First, my younger brother would have the exact matching clothes. Maybe it gave my parents more confidence in our common parentage. Or maybe it was just to save a little more on the cloth. Second, all my new clothes came from the same smiling tailor and they were always a size too big to allow us to grow into them as the year went by. Running around in them, holding on and balancing the shorts on the butt curve was an art I learnt then. Now I do it with my jeans.

And thus in my pretty clothes I went trotting along to the party with a gift tucked safely under my armpit. The moment I entered the party I felt my gift shrink into itself at the sight of the huge glittering gifts that had made it before mine. It didn’t matter I had almost emptied my pocket money of Rs. 25 to buy the gift. It was small and I had an awkward time hiding it inside the heap and praying it would be never found.

As the party cruised along I was totally enjoying myself, gobbling up the samosas[1] and downing thumbs-up with D, my good ol’ chum. It was then that two elder cousins of the prince called me over. They must have been high school kids then. My initial thoughts were whether they had an issue with the second samosa that I had just devoured. But all he had was a harmless question:

“Which school do you go to?”

That was simple enough. I replied “FAPS” and turned to focus on food.

“Are you sure? You look like you just walked out of Lourdes[2] school.”

It didn’t make sense immediately. They were helpful enough to snigger and pull on my shirt and point to my black shoes. And then it dawned. At that moment the sweet candy Life disrobed and showed me her naked dirty side. At that moment, standing in those clothes and those black shoes, amidst the pomp and show of all others around me, I turned communist and cried “Hail Robin Hood!”

Twelve
Late 1993

Twelve years old and strange emotions are knocking at your heart. When I think of 1993 and the seventh grade there is just one glowing memory which blankets all others. The memory of being in Love – your first.

I knew her since kindergarten. Pulling her pony tail in class, walking back hand-in-hand to the play school, watching her running around in her shimeez[3] in the hot sun, fabricating stories of kings and queens – we grew up together - sometimes we were best buddies and sometimes we were totally indifferent to the other’s existence.

And that fateful afternoon I watched her hold on to the just distributed math test paper. She was sobbing softly. She never cried about bad marks. Today her eyes were on the new boy in the class. The blue-eyed boy was sobbing over his score and she was crying for him. For the first time I heard a crumpling, breaking sound somewhere in my chest. I was heart broken even before realizing I was so much in love with her.

Dear Thippi, how different things would have been had your eyes but been on me that day? You could call it puppy love, crush, or anything else but it stayed with me for 12 years. I still have our old dusty picture taken in first grade – we won the running race – I am in my sailor’s suit. I had sprinted to you, kissed you on the cheek and the two of us had dashed to the finish line. After 12 years you are dashing to the finish line without me. You have your blue-eyed boy with you. And when I saw you with him a couple of months ago I felt calm all of a sudden. The look on your face was priceless, the look on his was even more so, and we hugged, the first and the last, and pooff – there – I knew I had moved on.

Eighteen
22nd June 1999

There are those birthdays when you know things won’t be the same ever again. My eighteenth birthday was by far the biggest with a dozen or more friends turning up home. All of them had pooled in money to buy me my first Walkman. Throughout the evening I had been numb and was trying to hide it under the chattering mask. I was to leave for undergrad studies in Singapore ten days from then. For someone who had been in the same school and same home for fourteen years this was a big step. Everyone seemed happy around me. Mom and dad were proud.

I fell asleep listening to John Denver. That romantic melancholic bastard just made it worse to leave all you know and step into the unknown.

“…Cause i'm leaving on a jet-plane, Don't know when i'll be back again…”

It is just amazing how fast we grow up once we are away from our nest.

Twenty Four
22nd June 2005

Twenty-four years old and none the wiser. Birthdays that come bang in the middle of the workweek are just too depressing. But then there is the “surprise” mid-night party, orchestrated by friends who really care, and attended by cake hungry nobodies. Maybe it was the predictability of such events that got to me. For the first time I was scared of growing old. Growing old with questions piling up each day. Without a moment to yourself to think about the answers.

But I am just too good (or naïve) to let the weekend go by in thought. I was out drinking and dancing in the comfort of smoky darkness. Maybe it was the knowledge that many of the faces illuminated by the revolving beam of light were just as clueless as I was. I closed my eyes and imagined myself moving to the music. The questions will have to wait for another day. I am just not ready yet to grow old.

[1] A small fried turnover of Indian origin that is filled with seasoned vegetables or meat.
[2] A school adjacent to FAPS where the poor kids went.
[3] A loose flowing cotton camisole worn by young girls.

Iyer

Hap Hap Happy Birthday.........

2005-06-21T23:52:00.000+08:00

Its difficult for me get as poetic as lolly but I think I will use the straightforward way to wish Iyer.

Iniya Porandanal Vazthukal

Machee

The Birthday Song

2005-06-21T20:24:00.000+08:00

Oh what, Oh what shall I gift you this year
A mug, a jug or a wine glass crystal clear

A sock, a sweater or a condom instead
A box of chocolates,or peanut butter spread

Oh why, Oh why should I gift you this year
for being handy,randy or elegantly dandy

A good blogger, clubber or partner in disorder
A reader, a good deeder or an a$$hole of the first order

Oh how, Oh how should I gift you this year
By taking you to a bar,in a car or somewhere really far

taking you to an island, a hill or a neighbourhood mountain
to a restaurant, a coffee joint or a nearby fountain

All said and done, since your birthday is sometime this year
tag along and just join me to celebrate a friend so dear
A friend who happens to be paying for the fun, frolic and free flow of beer.

Can you hear the loud cheer?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY IYEER !

Lolly