Happy Holi - Women's Day

What makes this year unique? End of the world rumour? Leap year? Naah. It's about today. It's coinciding of Holi festival and International Women's day. Confused? Well, this uniqueness is related to me. 

So let me start by wishing all women, more specifically those who have been a part of my life, a very Happy Women 's day. I think today is about taking some time out to appreciate the role a women plays in your life. I am proud to mention that I have had the pleasure of having a good number of female friends (and more than friends) and now when I look back I can appreciate the little (and in some cases, huge) differences they have made to my life. Women change you, temporarily or even permanently. They have such powers, trust me. And I am not complaining about it.

Holi festival is one of those few which I do not celebrate. I don't remember playing Holi after the age of 12, with just one exception (more about this follows soon). The reason had been the violence with which people from my residential building played it, not to mention the booze. Colors and water always had the least preference. It was all about mud, dirty water, kicking and throwing and other such ruthless stuff. I experienced it once and decided never ever to face it again. I used to lock myself inside my house on Holi, when people from my building came on our floor. I preferred being neat and sober on Holi. But exception happened in the year 2004.

I was trying my luck with one of my more than good female friends and things were shaping up good. We had become close friends. Holi was approaching and in one of our conversations, she mentioned that she plays Holi with her school friends every year. I thought it would be a good idea to play Holi this year with her. Some of her school friends were my acquaintances as well, and they knew I had a crush on her. So when I expressed my request of playing Holi with them that year, they happily obliged.

My mom was a bit surprised to hear that I was gonna play Holi that year, quite obviously. But she did not bother much when I told her it's my college friends. She knew I had better friends in college than at our locality. So I left my house at about 7 that morning and reached Girgaum. I met those friends of mine. Without further ado, I was showered with colors and water. Those guys picked me up and dropped me in a mini pool of color water. Some of them kicked me as well. Focus kept changing from one person to another. So even I got my chances of doing these things with other guys. 

We left from there in some time heading to her locality. By the time I reached, she was already colored. For a moment I did not realize her at all. I applied some color on her cheeks, wishing her "Happy Holi". She did the same and soon all her friends joined in. Some of the guys went berserk and also smashed eggs on our head. I was one of those (un)lucky guys. We really enjoyed a lot!

My energy dried up in some time and I decided to leave for home. In the bus, people were staring at me like crazy, often murmuring as well. It was when I reached home did I realize what might have been the reason. My mom was shocked to see me in that avatar. She asked me, "What's that awful smell?" I told her about the eggs and she made an awful expression. It was my stench which irritated the people in that bus. Mom told me she would have to throw away my tshirt and shorts, which I was wearing that day because there was no chance of that smell going away. I was sorry to hear that because I really liked that tshirt, but had no choice. And that was the last time, of me playing Holi, so far :)

Women, I tell you, have magical powers of making men do things they have refrained from. It's good to be in good books of women, saying this based on personal experience. Women are much worse than men when it comes to being bad. But, with a right women, the man can never be more happy. Women have a significant impact on a man's life and I am glad I can realize it. Just appreciating the same by wishing all women, Happy Women's day!

I hated my Hindi teacher

There is nothing as complex as human memory. It is capable of recording everything which ever happened in your life but you really cant call out everything of it at will. You remember all the regular stuff, also some special moments which mean a lot. But there are some memories which mean a lot to us in hindsight, which is probably the reason we cannot remember them at will. They flash across our mind only when we realize their importance.

These days at office are really crazy, too much work, everything seems to be haywire at times, priorities change, miscommunication occurs; simply too much chaos. Amidst all this, I was having a light conversation with my colleagues Sandeep and Ajeet. Ajeet was telling us how he beat some crooks that week, with punches and dabs and round house kicks and all. Ajeet, by the way, has been a boxer, karate player, basically a strong lad we knew of. What we did not know was that he was so lethal! I was really scared to listen how he beat the crap out of those crooks, while enjoying a good laugh. Ajeet mentioned he was kind of a bully when a kid, used to beat other kids until he met this one professor in his H.S.C. year. He claimed he could improve only because of this professor, who really changed him. Sandeep also added, saying he also had this one professor who kind of changed his life. I said, there's always this one professor in your life who has an unforgettable impact on you. That was when visuals of my Hindi teacher lit up in my mind.

My academic performance in school have always been very good, always among top 5 in class. I have taken a beating from my dad at times only because I scored a first class and not distinction! I was in my teens now and had started to take things lightly, the usual metamorphosis which occurs during this phase of life. I tend to be overconfident at times, even now, and back then it was more prominent. I was in 9th standard and started to feel I can score first class in tests very easily. I would ignore all language subjects citing to myself not to waste time studying such easy stuff. Unit tests commenced and it was Hindi paper the next day. I did not touch the textbook until the day of exam, scanning through the chapters and poems 15 mins before exam bell rang. I wrote god knows what, and not even once did it run across my mind that I should have studied a bit.

Tiwari sir, serving his last term at our school, was the one to check my division's answer sheets. 3 days post exam, he comes to our class with bundles of answer sheets in his hand. He asked our class monitor to distribute the papers. I got mine, and was dumbfound to look at my marks - 15 out of 50, FAIL! I gathered myself and recounted all marks, which added to 15. I checked through the answers and thought I should have given a few marks more for some. My friends came to know about my marks and were equally shocked. I could not take it any more, so I approached sir asking for a revaluation. He glanced through the paper but did not increase my marks anywhere. I requested him, citing that it's the first time something like this has happened with me so it must be a mistake. He was cold about my pleadings. He ignored me and I had nothing left to do than coming back to my seat and cry. Taking pity at me, some of my girl friends (I remember Shraddha, Linanjali doing this) approached him requesting to increase  marks and pass me. He simply refused!

So I had failed for the first time. I got the worst whack of my life from my dad. He beat me like crazy a day before my birthday, did not make me go to school on my birthday (I tried to be smart; I got my paper on 14th Aug, I decided to tell my parents on my birthday on 17th Aug so I may get away with less beating but (un)fortunately my dad came across it on 16th night and he figured out my plan which made him even more angry!).

That was it, Tiwari sir was my enemy now. I took it all very personally, cursed him a lot. I hated him to the core, could not stand him at all. I disrespected him (Don't ask how). And he was there, totally unaware of all this, preparing for his post retirement time. Since that incident, my parents started taking keen interest in my studies. My mom thought I had a difficulty in languages so she helped me with Hindi and Marathi. Rakhi, my cousin who was also my tuition teacher, was more focused on my studies now. My studies and progress was constantly monitored and eventually I started taking my studies seriously. Later on no one had to look after my studies, I did it all by myself. The rest lies in my academic records - 83% in S.S.C., 3rd in school and 2nd in Hindi, 75% in H.S.C. with 92 in Chemistry, 77% in T.Y.BSc Information Technology, 1st in college and 196/200 in University project and 72% in MBA Operations. 

Could all this have been possible if Tiwari sir had been lineant back then? Probably yes. But that jolt was required back then. You may take 20 hard blows to break a rock but does that mean the first one was not important? For him it was easy to raise my marks and pass me. I never knew of anyone trying to persuade a professor to pass someone else. Still, he was adamant not to pass me, and rightly so! Perhaps he must have sensed what was necessary for me at that time and he did it. It was a tough decision for him as well, but he did it because it was right. And he has certainly helped one of his students progress in life.

Shraddha always told me Tiwari sir was a nice person and I must say I agree with her now, thanks to this happy realization. Thank you Tiwari sir. I wish you had a wonderful life so far and continue to do so. I am glad I could realize the significance of your action in my lifetime. God bless you sir.

Boss is always right!

There goes the cliche yet again. Unlike some cliches, this one certainly holds true most of the times. And it is not just the apt action or words chosen by the Boss which matter here. The authority which a Boss holds is key to this argument. I have always believed in this right from my degree college days but this incident which happened recently made my belief firm as a rock. 

My sis celebrated her 21st birthday this year on 19th Jan. My dad suggested we gift her a laptop, and he insisted we gift her one on the day of her birthday. The problem was timing of this wonderful idea; it struck him on 16th Jan! At such short notice we had to rely on Known Devil. So I called up Just Dial to find out Vijay Sales stores in and around Vashi. I fetched contact number of their store in Palm Beach Galleria mall and called up to enquire about Dell Inspiron 14R. I spoke to Vedprakash, who is the Head of Laptop department at this store. He answered all my queries related to laptop configuration, price, availability, available colors and payment mode. Now I just had to drop in there and make my purchase. We all visited the store on 19th only to find Vedprakash on leave for that day. We went ahead with the purchase but were not happy with one of the accessories. This laptop has changeable lids, and Sayali did not find the available lids any classy. We asked the sales guy attending us if we can change the lid later to which he said he will need to talk to his senior, who was absent for the day. Anyways, we took the available lid back home but another trip to this store was due.

We went home only to find out that the laptop charger was not working. Apparently it was compatible with some other model. I needed to go back to the store the next day for this issue (This is why I call them Known Devil. I distinctly remember replacing my iPod touch as the one which I got first was not working!). Also, a fair copy of receipt was yet to be received. I went to the store again, and this time I met Vedprakash. I discussed the problem with him and he realized what might have happened. He replaced the charger and suggested to charge the laptop for a while. He then went away and I could not see him for the next 15-20 mins; apparently he was not in the store nor the office. The other sales guys were gosipping a few things and I had no choice but to hear them as they were in the vicinity of my laptop being charged. I interrupted their gossip to ask if I could get a different bagpack, to which that guy suggested to talk to his senior. Few minutes later I interrupted again, this time about replacing lid. The sales guy said my laptop model was provided only with the lid which I already had and so it cant be replaced. I was not so happy knowing this but I could not do anything about it. I was now patiently waiting for my laptop to be charged when I heard about the latest gossip topic related to Vedprakash. Those guys junior to him were cribbing about him, questioning his position, claiming that he takes long breaks which go unnoticed because of his position, and how all this is unfair and he does not deserve it!

I did not listen to all of it as I was getting late for office. The charger was working fine now but Vedprakash was not there yet, so I asked those sales guys to try and call him. He was not reachable so I packed up and left. I just came out of the store and there he was approaching me. He enquired if my laptop is now working fine. I nodded and asked him about replacing the lid. He assured me not to worry about it and noted by contact number; he said he will inform me once a fresh lot of lids are in stock. I had to visit the store again after a few days, to collect my copy of receipt. This time I forgot the copy to be shown at the bill counter but here again Vedprakash bailed me out. He traced the transaction after I told him the date of purchase and made sure I receive the receipt. Fresh stock of lids was still not available yet he assured me that he would inform about it once it arrives.

As a Boss, Vedprakash had the command to let me know what is possible and what is not. He had the authority to help me out, the knowledge to resolve my queries right from the time we interacted. Apparently he takes extended breaks and is a little bossy with his juniors, so what? He is still the best person of that Vijay Sales store when it comes to satisfying customers looking for laptops. Part of this authority is ego, no doubt. But most of it is 'been there, done that'. Boss has this power and very understandably he likes to exercise it, take advantage of it. Yet, he is still the best person to bail you out, mentor you, assign tasks and get work done. He may take credit for your work at times, because he might have faced the same when he was you. He needs a little bit of ego massage in a while, and nothing wrong about that. Shift in perspective about your boss and his actions is what you ought to seek. Make it simple, put your feet in your Boss's shoes and you'll know, that the Boss is always right!

My first dream walk

I don't know how many of you keep a track of your resolutions, like me. Since 2007 I have been writing down my resolutions and keeping a track of how many did I complete. Initially that list was too optimistic, which I realized 2 years back. So I stopped making resolutions, any resolution which had high chances of not being achieved. This has been a welcome change and without bragging about it, I am pleased to mention that I could achieve 80% of all resolutions planned for 2011. One of those, something always at the back of my mind since my graduation time, was participating in marathon.

Thanks to Mousami, I participated in Mumbai Marathon 2012 in the Dream Run event. I had missed out registering for the event as I really had no idea how to go about (or should I say just being too lazy!). But destiny has it own control on our lives in some or the other way. Mousami works in Reliance so the process of registering for this event is pretty convenient for her. We had met a few days before this came up in her office and she had asked us about it. I and Tushar really wanted to register, so Mousami took care of that. I was all excited, especially with the feeling of running along celebrities, who usually take part in the Dream Run event!

Tushar and Mousami

It was last week of November when I came to know about the scheduled date. I thought about practicing a bit, and decided to wake up early morning for a jog starting December. Here in Panvel the weather is really cool and it would have been fun to jog, had I been doing it. Yes, December came and went away, so did January. Initial reaction of my mom and sis when they heard I would be running was, "Would you be able to run?" I said a yes, but I really doubted myself. Now I don't regret not preparing for the event as Dream Run is least about running.

Mumbai Marathon is a very good event which attracts a lot of people, and also advertising opportunities for several brands and entities. This year close to 38k people had participated, majority in Dream Run. Half Marathon and Full Marathon events are for people serious about running and completing the race. It ain't a joke to run 22 km and 42 km, and I have seen people more than 50 years of age completing these races. It certainly makes me wonder about my ability and agility to pull this off after 20-25 more years. Anyways, so these serious guys just run and complete the race but Dream Run is just for enjoyment and show off. People participate in groups; colleagues, classmates, NGO's, friends and others. It's a great way to gain media exposure, especially being associated with an event which is raising charity for a cause. You come in groups wearing similar t-shirts or caps, or weird costumes and holding placards and you have bright chances of being covered by hundreds of photo journalists. Brands do not leave this golden opportunity to strike a cord with their prospective customers by way of merchandizing, goodies, and stuff. People who understand can imagine how much brand equity has been generated for Standard Chartered Bank by this event year on year.

Senior person with athleticism

So, without any practice I woke up early morning on 15th January 2012, got ready and left for C.S.T. It was a great visual at C.S.T. that morning, with so many people, many of which dressing alike. I could feel the energy being exhibited. I had to wait for Tushar so we reached late to the venue. By the time we reached, Dream Run had already commenced. Mousami, her dad, Tushar and me started our race. We left from Azad maidan and by the time we reached C.S.T. junction we could see some one already completing Marathon on the big screen, and we had just started! Later I came to know that my mom thought the race was over when the Kenyan athlete finished the race and was planning to call me back home :P 

Johm Abraham and Vinod Khanna

We were part of a big crowd now, moving at snail's pace. Since we had started late, all the celebrity participants were way ahead of us. I did not even know who they were, until reading next day's newspaper. Luckily, we could see a few celebrities on the podium waving to all the participants, particularly John Abraham and Vinod Khanna. Both really look smart in person as well. 

Swapna and Me

For about 1 km stretch, we did get a less crowded street so Tushar and I decided to run. Mousami was like, "Are you really sure if you want to run?" Tushar and I were stricken by the idea that Marathon is about running and we were not doing that at all; it's only later I realized that Dream Run is not for running. Anyways, we had a brisk run for close to 1 km after which we were choked up in the crowd again. It was not point in running at all, so we started walking. Soon Mousami and her dad joined us and we completed the event in about 3 hours. I met a few long lost friends as well, like Bharat dada and Swapna. Needless to say, we clicked some nice pics to preserve these memories digitally.

Overall I really had a good experience and planning to go for Half Marathon next year. I hope I avoid procrastination this time around and register in time. This also means jogging and raising stamina which is a task in itself. But it would certainly be a good habit to cultivate and also tone down my flab. Above all, the feeling of completing 22 km run would be beyond any words!

My first Rajasthan trip

Kamlesh happy in his bachelor days!

And it had to be my school buddy Kamlesh's wedding the reason for this 6 day trip. Routine was reaching an unbearable level of boredom and a long vacation seemed a must. It was a little difficult to get leave approved since it is the high revenue earning season in the business of my company. I somehow managed to convince my boss, citing the fact that this leave was earlier planned in May this year but got postponed. Yes, this wedding was supposed to take place earlier and had it been that time the weather would not have been suitable for a pleasant trip. Really fortunate to visit Rajasthan at this time of the year.

 

When this trip was being planned we knew we would need atleast 4 days and it would be a good idea to extend this and visit the nearest tourist destination. Kamlesh suggested Mount Abu being the nearest and we had everyone's consent for it. Kamlesh sponsored our to and fro tickets. Thus, we reached Bandra terminus on 16th Nov to embark our journey. 

 

Sai, the juari

Sayali, Shraddha, Sujata, Sai, Vikesh and me boarded Suryanagari Express. We settled on our  seats and soon took out cards for passing time. We had a brief game of UNO before switching to playing cards. I never really appreciated the variety of games we can play with cards. These are really the best means of passing time when you are in a group. Finally I learnt to play Mendi Coat and we also played Challenge and Prediction. We had to change trains at Ahmedabad. Kamlesh's elder bro was in the same train and he was being a wonderful host. He looked after our beverages, snacks, dinner and ice creams. By the time we boarded the second train it was midnight and we were sleepy. Kamlesh had mentioned us to have a good sleep on the way as all wedding related events would commence the night we reach. 

 

We all woke up pretty early next morning. This train would hault at all stations on the way. Shraddha and Sai thus got a chance of getting down on some stations, explore and click pics. We were having tea/coffee when Lalit bhai told us that we would reach by 10 am. We really wanted to reach soon, body was itching a bit and needed some cleansing. Somesar station arrived in some time and we got down, clicked a snap at the station while Lalit bhai was negotiating commuting charges with the Jeep drivers. Negotiations over, cameras back in their cases and off we were to Kharda.

 

Mahindra Commander Jeep took us in half an hour. It sure is a robust all terrain vehicle, though a little uncomfortable. Dry weather and barren lands were distinctly noticeable. We could notice the wedding environment from some distance before the halt. The entrance of Kamlesh's alley was well decorated and his house even more. It was a one storey house, with terrace. It had a peculiar gap in first floor and terrace, covered by iron railings which can be removed. It helps in ventilation and is a smart way of carrying heavy things within the house; you can pull up or push down things through this opening. Kamlesh's house did not have a toilet just outside the entrance, unlike other houses. But you notice a similar setup of all houses in the vicinity. This common peculiarity in various regions I have seen so far amuses me, makes me wonder how and what we humans do to be a part of a group. 

 

Anyways, we received a warm welcome. Kamlesh was looking cheerful, had a synthetic garland around his neck as part of their tradition. We met everyone, had our snacks and took our luggage to our allotted rooms. Kamlesh introduced us to his other friends Shailesh, Bhavesh and Bharti. Very soon we had our lunch, post which Kamlesh told us the program for the day. We knew that may go up to the wee hours so we guys chose to take a nap. Girls chose to be a part of wedding related events. 

 

We got up by 4 pm when most of the guests were being taken to a nearby Jain temple at Nadol. We joined in as well, girls received Ambassador service and it was Commander Jeep for guys, again. It was a beautiful temple, with Dharamshala in the vicinity. A very peculiar well attracted us. It was not a standard well; it had steps in a such a way that irrespective of the water level, one can go down and fetch water easily. Beyond this temple was a barren land which was a no-trespassing area. As told to us, most of the shooting stars and asteroids have fallen here, and astronomers and scientists do their research work here. We spent some more time clicking pics before leaving.

 

By evening we guys were up preparing our costumes for the upcoming event later in the night. Girls were lucky to get rajasthani ghagra choli to wear, thanks to Kamlesh's badi bhabhi and choti bhabhi. We had company of little ones, Kamlesh's nieces Khushi and Payal. On the way back home we had lots of fun with these two brats. 

 

As per tradition, the groom has to be on a horse and the horse will dance, some times stand up on hind legs making it a little uncomfortable for the groom at times. This is to test the grooms' ability to be in control even in tough times. It was a strong white horse, well trained; we named it Raja. It was called down from a nearby village, belonged to a Thakur. Before Kamlesh could hop on, he was made to dance on traditional rajasthani drum beats (the horse). It was fun to watch it and later when Kamlesh was riding it, it danced much better. It was made to dance on ground, then on a small hexagonal table and then on a khatiya. Kamlesh passed this test with flying colors. The baraat was taken to the temple, where Kamlesh was made to do certain rituals and back home again. On the way we all danced. Kamlesh's relatives performed their traditional rajasthani dance. Sayali, Shraddha and Sujata also made a decent attempt at emulating that dance. For guys, it was purely Ganpati dance! By the time all this was over it was well past 2 am. It was soothing to sleep below the star studded sky on the open terrace, something that I had missed since moving out of mumbai central house.

 

Next morning we woke up a bit late. We freshened up, had breakfast and were gearing up for bath when we were told that guys would be going to the farm. This farm was some 20 mins away from the house and it had a big concrete tub which was filled with well water. So we had an open air bath; girls accompanied us but were asked to stay at a distance. By the time we reached back, it was lunch time. We needed to be ready by 4 pm, to leave for Kamlesh's sasuraal for the wedding. I remember how we all craved for softdrinks there, as the local water was tasting really salty. After packing up, we all went to the nearest store and had limca, sponsored by Kamlesh's big bro Nitin bhai. Content with how we quenched our thirst, we now left for Kamlesh's wedding. It was a bus ride of close to 4 hours.

 

Kamlesh and a few close relatives reached before us, so the wedding related events were already in progress. We guys were asked to assist Kamlesh; he was in a nearby temple. We went there and the sight made us uneasy. It was 5 against 2. As a custom, bride' brothers and cousins feed sweets to the groom, and in really large quantities. Now the groom is not supposed to satisfy his appetite as he would be having supper with the entire family after wedding. So, groom' friends are supposed to be there for moral support, and also supposed to feed the bride' brothers and cousins. It becomes more of a competition for them, but very close to acidity for people like me. The sight made us doubtful, whether to enter or not. But we could not betray Kamlesh. Sai, Vikesh, Bhavesh, Shailesh and me had to eat whatever came Kamlesh's way to keep him stomach a little empty. I am not sure if this is typical to Rajasthan our Marvadis, but 2-3 people always shared a food plate, like the way Muslims do on their festive occasions of Ramzan Eid and Eid-e-Milad. The only problem with this is you dont know how much you have eaten! When the plate is filled, its done so for 2-3 people and seeing so much quantity makes you loose appetite, which makes you feel hungry later. So I had to visit the common dining area to look for some food later that night.

Gifts :)

Kamlesh's uncle had organized 'drinks' and we felt strange being sober, so we joined in. Lalit bhai comes looking for us in some time, as baraat had begun. We gulped it all and joined in, dancing a little bit as well. We reached the doorstep of bride's house which created a bottle neck. Exchange of garlands was the next bit of ceremony, which was done in a playful way. The groom is supposed to put the garland around the bride first and then the bride. So when Kamlesh tried to, Durga was dragged back a little by her relatives just to make it difficult to reach. Kamlesh being tall, it didn't take him much time. But when it was their turn, Kamlesh's relatives made sure they don't give in so easily. It took a longer time for the bride's side, so the round went to Kamlesh! Unfortunately, this did not go well with some of the relatives of the bride which led to a minor scuffle with Shailesh. Kamlesh's youngest aunty witnessed that and got really upset. It took some time to cool her off, and we really did not want any such thing to mar this occasion. Fortunately, things did not go beyond that. We all entered the common area in Durga's house where further rituals were taking place. These were followed by gifts. The bride's side were placing their gifts in a big dish. Pick of the lot was the bearer cheque in favor of Durga worth Rs. 100000/- Kamlesh's face lit up, so did many of his relatives, quite obviously! The rituals were done and we went back to our dormitory. 

Next day we were supposed to leave for Mount Abu in the evening but had not planned anything related to that yet.  After breakfast we went for some shopping in the nearby market place. Girls spent their time at a saree and dress apparel while we guys were taken to a nearby food joint by Nitin bhai. Lassi was the famous delicacy of that joint and we were savoring on it. We joined the girls in about 45 minutes or so and yet they were not done with their shopping. Girls, I tell you! Anyways, after another 30 minutes or so we left that shop, went about the other areas in the market and each one bought some or the other stuff. Done with shopping we headed back to the dormitory and started packing up. We had a late lunch, post which we gathered some intel about Mount Abu. Anil sa, Kamlesh's brother-in-law told us how to reach there, where to stay, possible room rates. He also mentioned to try rabdi, which was a specialty dessert there. Kamlesh arranged for a car to drop us to the bus stop. We bid goodbye to each and every member of Kamlesh's family, their hospitality was so heart warming! 

We got the bus destined for Mount Abu in some time. We guys got good seats, girls had to sit in the driver's cabin. We were told that Mount Abu was 2 hours away. Well it was much beyond that and we were yet to reach anywhere near. We were just gazing through the road, seeing dusty terrain, shepherd's with their flock of sheep and goats, some temples on the way, flock of birds coming towards us in the background of sunset (it was really beautiful, unfortunately we could not capture it) and a few lakes as well. I saw a lot of lakes in that area, not sure if that is peculiar to Rajasthan. After a point we got bored, so much so that we started clicking some wierd pics. After about 3 hours, we reached Abu road where the bus took a halt. We had the rabdi there, while the bus driver was having a drink. We did not see him doing that, but the girls sitting in his cabin realized it later when he was driving up hill to Mount Abu. It was a difficult terrain and I wonder how can someone drink and drive such road. Or is it the same thing which gives confidence to drive well on such difficult road? 

We reached Mount Abu by around 8 pm, safely! As soon as we got down agents flooded us with offers to stay at their recommended places. This is a common thing about Tourist spots in India, which I really don't like. Me and Sai went to explore one guest house, later Vikesh and Sai went to check some other one. Girls were getting a little impatient, it was getting late and turning really chilly as well. We got a nice place to stay finally, within our budget and very close to the market area. We stayed at Asoka Hotel, and I would really recommend this place for anyone visiting Mount Abu. Their hospitality and service is really good. By the time we freshened up and left for dinner it was already close to 10 pm. Shraddha wanted some medicines so I volunteered to accompany her, meanwhile these guys found a restaurant and ordered food. On the way back, we saw a Maggi stall. The chef was juggling it up very nicely, all the ingredients were on neatly display and Maggi in itself was too inviting, specially when we were already so hungry. Back there these guys were waiting for us, yet we couldn't resist the temptation! We approached the stall asked the menu. Maggi in egg curry seemed delicious so we ordered one. And it did not let us down at all, it was fabulous. We did not have our phones as well. But it was real fun not to be bothered about our conscience at that moment!

After thoroughly enjoying Maggi, we left back to the restaurant. To their bad luck, or should I say good luck, dinner was not good at that restaurant. These guys were getting worried for us and we finally showed up. There was a mischievous grin on my face, which caught their eye. We told them what happened and I did see a flash of anger run through their faces. But they somehow understood why we did it. We showered praises of that Maggi stall, these guys were already hungry so now we all went back to that stall. We ordered the same thing, and also some other dish. We ate to our hearts content and returned back to the hotel. The next day was going to be the best day of our trip, as we went to sleep without knowing it.

Next day we got up and got ready. Our hotel guy suggested us to rent bikes. We took his suggestion and rented a bike and two scooties. I, Sujata and Sayali would ride. Yes, Vikesh and Sai dont know to ride bikes! Vikesh chose to be my pillion, Shraddha was Sujata's pillion which left Sai to be pillion to Sayali. Later in the day Sayali had to cover herself completely so that people passing by don't realize that a girl is riding a scooty with a guy sitting behind :P We had breakfast, filled fuel and off we were to explore Mount Abu. First stop was the world's biggest Jain temple by the name Dilwara. It is a beautiful place which has 5 temples, all made of marble. The biggest temple has a beautiful sculpture from inside. One of the 5 temples is built by the artisans with all the left over marble pieces and left nothing to make it look any less beautiful. The guide mentioned an interesting fact about temples in that region. Back in the past, temples were being looted, so these temples were made in such a way that they looked ordinary from outside so they won't attract attention!

Next we went to Trevor tank, which is an animal sanctuary without any animals. It was a flop spot so we did nothing else than clicking some pics and left for the next spot. The journey was really nice, it was fun to ride bike in that terrain. The weather was cool and views scenic. As we were climbing up, the valley was looking more and more beautiful. It was tough for Sujata and Sayali to ride as climbing up with the scooty takes some effort. But it was worth it, as we all were having the ride of our life, so far! I had been miser, thanks to Vikesh, and filled slightly lesser fuel than required. So I was a bit worried if we had enough fuel to make it back to the hotel. Leaving that thought in status quo for some time, we now reached the top most peak in Aravali mountain ranges, the Guru Shikhar. 

Again a common observation, all the peaks I have seen so far during treks always had some or the other temple at the top, and Guru Shikhar was no exception. It has a small temple and a big bell. It was very cool at this point and the panoramic view was awesome. Perfect for some cool pics. It was around 5 pm that time so we decided to leave as we still had to cover 3 spots - Achalgadh, Brahma Kumari Ashram and Sunset point. Now we were descending and I suddenly thought we don't need our bike engines on to go the distance! So we all switched off our engines and suddenly the ride became more adventurous. We reached Brahma Kumari Ashram and explored it fairly soon. It's a big garden with beautiful flowers and plants, absolutely well maintained. 

We left from there and it was almost 6 pm. We were very sure we can visit only 1 spot so it was time to choose. We chose Achalgadh in unison, because Sunset point is available at many tourist destinations. Achalgadh, by it's name, also felt interesting. We reached there and parked our bikes near the footsteps. Sayali was too tired by this time, so she did not join us to the top. The top had a nice Jain temple and a small pond. Sun was about to set so I tried to reach the top most point there to click a snap. By the time I reached, the sun had set :( It was going to get dark now and our bikes were short on fuel as well. We wasted no time and left. By the time we reached half way, it was already dark. Sujata's scooty' headlight was not working. So I rode in the middle with Sayali in the front and Sujata behind. We reached our hotel in another 15 minutes safely and when I checked, we were really out of fuel. We did some shopping as well.

We were really hungry now and again chose to visit the Maggi stall. We ate to our hearts content, again. Maggi never tasted so good, and somehow I feel I have come closer to Maggi now. Today was our last night at Mount Abu so we decided to make the most of it. We picked up some drinks on the way back. Everyone gathered in a room, and we made our drink while shuffling cards. A few games, and a peg later, Sai was on a high. Little bit of cheating we were doing annoyed him and he even left the room for some time. We all were shocked with his behavior but he came back and then he was OK. We passed it off and very soon were in bed. Next morning, we had a late breakfast and then went on to check out Nakki lake. It's a beautiful lake with boating. We got those pedal boats, which can sit two people. We stuck to the same partners, poor Sai! A nice 30 minute boating with lots of pics. It was fun, I really don't remember the last time I went for boating.

We checked out and left for Abu Road. We had to hire a private car. There were these two guys along with us, who were drunk. Good for them they did not cross their limit otherwise they had had it from us. Sujata and Vikesh puked on the way down, but felt good later. We reached the station and locked our belongings in the locker room. We had 2-3 hours for our train to arrive so we had lunch without any haste. We preferred to eat something light, as we would be traveling. We then explored the market and enquired about the specialty snack/sweets which we can take back home. Gajak, a crisp and sweet snack was the local specialty so we bought some to take back home. 30 minutes for our train to arrive and we were back to the station. Packed our bags and were waiting on the platform where our train would arrive. So this was it, we were heading back to our routine lives.

We boarded the train and to our surprise Nitin bhai and his wife and kids were accompanying us as well. Infact, bhabhi sa had packed good amount of food for all of us. Thanks to the two kids, Payal and Khusbu, we did not realize how time went by. These kids found themselves new toys, my and Sai's camera, and went berserk clicking pics. Some of their clicks were really nice. We had dinner in some time and then went to sleep. The next morning we reach amchi Mumbai, from where we all depart to our respective home. Perhaps the first and the last outdoor trip of 6 of us. We really missed Leenanjali a lot. This trip is certainly on top of my best traveling experiences so far. I wonder how Goa is gonna be ;)

 

It can come from anywhere and anyone!!

A few rides have made me comfortable with the car now. Considering the early mishap, it feels good about how soon I picked up. Driving is a really good experience, and now I can truly share this feeling with some of my friends who had a car before I had and always said this. I enjoy the drive on Palm Beach, wide open road is really inviting to step up the gas and zoom ahead. But for now I avoid it, don't want to get over confident so soon :)

Back in the last of week of December 2011, I was driving in town. Town, as always, was jammed with traffic. Quite literally, I had to move inch by inch; never really got a chance to get out of the lane. Being used to bikes, it was really getting uncomfortable in the car. And the worst part was, I could not do anything about it. Over a period of time I was getting used to it. Tuned in to my favorite music and tried to relax. It was happening, patience was developing in me!

Yes, I seem to have developed patience atleast when I am driving. And I couldn't have imagined my car being the reason for it. It is very similar to how I started reading books. I never thought that such good habit can be cultivated in me, and that too by my friend Tushar. Neither did I anticipate Tushar exposing me to trekking. Or Ameya making me dance for a college fest.

The point is - the source of your learning can be anyone or anything. You just need to appreciate this fact and be open for learning, be ready. It's always good to think like a student, as you don't stop exploring, grasping and reasoning at any point while being one. And gravity is not the only thing to keep you on ground; this student perspective does that as well. Routine life conditions our mind in such a way that it may lack these insights. But, mind works best when it is unconditioned, when it is fresh. Keeping your mind fresh is something no one else, but only you, can cultivate.

Why these Questions?

How the tables have turned! Now she is cold and he is restless. He doesn't know how to react, how to adjust to this change. This change was inevitable?  

He faltered big time. She did whatever she could, whatever she should. She had to draw a line eventually. Shifting lives does not have to be a heartbreaking incident, is what she feels. You can't really blame her, but can you blame someone else related to her? Or was it just that he did not have enough guts to disclose all this to his close ones or approach her close ones?

She has entered a new chapter, another coming up real soon, if you go by her claim. He seems to be stuck somewhere, or is he? He has been cold more often than not. He was the one to claim a possibility to move on easily, wasn't he?

No hard feelings against each other, or are there any? No complaints, really? Sure about best wishes for each other. Friendship for a lifetime, only time will tell. One perspective clearly states wonderful compatibility. But isn't compatibility subjective as well?  

She loved him very much, but what about him? Is he really so insensitive now, or is it just plain indifference? What does he crave? Is she fairly clear about her cravings? Is Destiny at work or what?Someone better for each of them, or atleast her? She definately deserves a good person, and he? Will he regret or not, will she? What shall the regret be?  

Good luck to both of them. Luck favors the prepared, as they say! Are they prepared? Is he? Isn't she? She always knew, or did she?  

PS: it's just abstract writing ;)