Embracing Differences....Celebrating the Freedom!

Yesterday I had the opportunity to attend, as a visitor, a Naturalization Ceremony here in the DC area - an oath taking ceremony for approved individuals to become US citizens. I thought it would be a routine procedure, formal yet quite to the point. Candidates take the oath, there is the anthem, the pledge of allegiance, some paper work and thus, citizenship. 

Yes there was all of that but much more. 

I was pleasantly surprised at the approach of the event and the overall enthusiasm expressed NOT by those to-be Americans as much as by the organizers. The feelings were that of excitement, celebration, honor, and most importantly, the warmth in welcoming the 'opportunity'. The lead speaker presiding over the 'ceremony' expressed how excited she was to be present today, almost as a promise to her nation to build a better country - a country of immigrants coming together as a melting pot of diversity, cultures, circumstances and now joined together to be part of one nation. She called out the list of all the countries that were being represented in this location - 62 nations, 250 participants. 

Many of them must come from countries that have disowned them, the land to which they can no longer go to, the land that does not acknowledge them, the land that would take away their freedom and their liberty. Thus, for many of those 250 individuals who from today on, have a new identity, this to me represents a defining moment in their lives and that of their loved ones and how fate must have had a larger role to play.

Today, as I do my little bit to celebrate the Independent India, I look back at yesterday and feel thankful and privileged that I can still feel ‘belonged’ to my birthplace, that the thought of settling down there still exists, that a stronger part of me wants to see a better India and that the word ‘opportunity’ has significant meaning there too! Here’s to the country I was born to as it celebrates its 'freedom' and to the country that continues to embrace diversity.

Be inspired and Make a Difference

There is no escaping the current wave of movement in India (and for Indians outside of it) concerning the status of #LokpalBill, #AnnaHazare and the #Futureofindiangoverningsystem. From the surge in news through the web of social media, one would think it is easy to understand the basis of this movement. Yet, to be very honest, I feel a bit disoriented about this entire episode. There are so many articles, discussions, forums regarding various standpoints on this movement – whether the Lokpal Bill is good for the nation or Anna Hazare’s movement needs to be supported or will these together harm the overall functioning (in its current manner – right or wrong) of the country. Anna Hazare’s fast seems to be the means to bring out this bill that has the ability to fight corruption at all levels. A true Gandhian would believe that ‘ends do not justify the means’ and this movement is another classic example (aside from the entire independence movement) of the quote. Bill or no Bill, I do not believe it will bring an overnight solution to the problem – it is not a magic wand (Loved your speech Mr. Jaitley and yes, there is no such wand out there!) that would remove the illegal systems that govern our country.

So in all of this, I ask myself whether I support Anna Hazare - Yes I do. Not the man per se but his means to tackle this problem is what I wholeheartedly value. This is a clear example of standing up to one’s principles and it requires a lot of conviction. In current day and age, our generation is so blinded by what goes on that it is rare to find situations that have such integrity and the fact that we get to live through such situations, the least we can do is be inspired and make a difference. There may be a lot of individuals/groups that do not support this man. And rightly so. If you do not believe in Lokpal or Hazare and do not want to support it, that is fine. Everyone has their own views and approach to what they believe in. But the point is whether we make a real impact to what we truly believe in. That in itself is more crucial than merely pointing fingers at those who are atleast attempting to ‘make a difference’.

I personally do not view this movement as a fight to destabilize the existing government or to find faults in the ‘foreign’ ruler. But it is to stand up to our own social and moral responsibilities. This fight is not only about the kind of corruption that goes on at the top level, but more importantly, how we would tackle those kinds of instances that run our day-to-day functioning – traffic violation, drivers’ license, school admissions, taxes, etc. If we do not fight these daily situations in the spirit of ‘Change’, the Bill will result into an even more dangerous entity. After all, it is we the people that contribute to such situations in the first place and not just the politicians and the bureaucrats.

It is not easy to take that first step – but we can use this movement to our advantage. This is by far the best opportunity we have to make the most of the time and its relevance (read = elections) and thereby pave way to ‘create’ a situation for the right kind of people/party worthy of support. Anna Hazare gives us hope – and all we have to do is take those baby steps – be inspired and make a difference.

Mumbai Again

There goes the city again.
There goes everyone's wishes and prayers (in vain?) to those who mourn the losses of dear ones that shall only increase by the day.
There goes people's status updates - hour by hour - expressing anger, frustration, pain.
This time, again, the common man in Mumbai was hit. And hit hard.
And yet, the city will wake up to courage and resilience just like it always has in the past.

Yes, there is compassion and mourning - but what next? Hopefully, no negative provocation of any sorts on the streets from our supposed leaders. That would only lead to further carnage which in turn would destroy the very fabric of our nation. It is very easy to blame it on one particular faith and loosely use the term 'fundamentalists' or 'extremists' like it has always been done - yet no answers have been found to totally eliminate such forces of terror. Clearly, the war is beyond borders and has penetrated into our households - but who is the real enemy here? Isn't it an invisible entity that requires more than a warfare to conquer?

I have no strong opinion on how such terror acts need to be dealt with but I have faith that good will triumph over evil one day. I do not want to take a soft spot on such acts but I feel it imperative to comprehend it. One may call me blind and apathetic. Truly so - I may be indifferent and distanced from it all and I hope I am alone if feeling such indifference. But the way I look at it is that I am fortunate enough that I had an upbringing that was devoid of any discrimination; lucky enough to be blessed by a core of dear ones whom I pray are far removed from such acts; privileged with the opportunities to explore the world and life and numerous ideas in any manner possible.

Unfortunately, the very perpetrators of terror are removed from the above opportunities - and have already immersed themselves into a leap of darkness.

I intend to nurture brightness and purity and nondiscrimination into the minds of those that are dependent on me. And I hope I am not alone in expressing such emotion.

Maximum City

Sealink in the making

Haji Ali - at Sunset

Peace, Prosperity, Happiness - Happy Diwali!

Out of hibernation, truly so, Diwali does that to you!!

This festival is a coming-together of communities, beliefs and practices - a melting pot of sorts that has no defined rules and regulations except to celebrate life, peace and success over all that is evil. It is the real flavor of India and the country transforms into a space filled with lights, laughter, victory and vibrancy. Diyas are lit, colorful designs - aka rangoli - adorn homes, decorative lights are hung around windows and doors, gifts and food galore! Crackers, are burst and while this has increasingly added to the noise and pollution, lot of communities - small and large - have chosen to ban such form of festivity. Many may argue that the true essence of Diwali has been lost amidst such aesthetic forms of celebration but honestly, no one would have a real answer to that. Some seek solace by praying, some prefer to stay indoors; others travel, many indulge in festive rituals. A mix of such cultures thus add diversity and exclusivity to this festival. My experience during this time has been no different, yet having moved to the US three Diwalis ago, that charm and anticipation has not been the same. Nonetheless, I see a common thread cutting through the two countries during such festive occasions and it is evident that Diwali is indeed a unique combination of July 4th (firecrackers), Thanksgiving (continual feast) and Christmas (gifts, celebration of life and a perfect holiday)! So, no matter what faith or belief you come from, I would say, indulge in this assortment of harmony, show humility to those less fortunate, reach out to those in need, light sparklers and cherish in the moments with hope for more to come.

Want to know the significance of Diwali? Wiki-Diwali to you!
And if that weren't enough, here is more (long) celebration the POTUS style -

Happy Diwali and (if applicable), Saal Mubarak!

Go Vote..

Elections are considered a lifeline of a functioning Democracy and India witnesses this event (drama?) in the coming weeks. With preparations on-going, it is indeed a war of the parties with hidden agendas as always. Tomorrow marks the beginning of a long-drawn 25-day agenda culminating into a new (hopeful) government in June. So far, the fight has been between The Congress and the BJP but clearly, with the Third Front forging ahead, would be a crucial decision for the country.

Some claim this to be India's first ever digital election campaign. L K Advani has become a blogger we see! With best practices from the 2004 election campaign - remember India Shining and Feel Good Factor? - there are also various initiatives to drive the citizens for an informed, more conscientious decision-making on whom to vote - Tatas with Jaago Re, Idea Cellular with My Idea, Times of India with Lead India and many more. Then there are the likes of Agni and IVote as well. Not sure of whom to vote in your constituency? How about locating your MLA through Empowering India? And to spice things up, Congress has bought the rights of Jai Ho for its campaign visitations.

I remember election day as being the day when, for once, it would be fun to 'show the finger' around!




Voting in India has changed over the years and contrary to what people may say - their names not being part of the voter registration - no longer holds true. Pan-India drives have taken place through household surveys to ensure eligible voter is included in the data. And after all, it is also the duty of each individual to ensure his/her name exists in the voter registration. Infact, Google India, in partnership with Hindustan Times and nonprofits including the Liberty Institute, has set up the India Elections Center, to enable voters to confirm their registration status, polling booth. So no more excuses out there! Surprisingly, this time around, majority of the young have entered the political fabric of this system albeit greater apathy exists among several who simply cannot be bothered to go vote. "What difference would a vote make?" is a typical reasoning but seriously, if we do not do our bit, how can we expect any wonders to take place?



Let us not be cynical of the drama that unfolds before us during this election; if we truly want to see India Shining, let us be a part of it. So a humble request to the Indian voter out there -
Go Vote, It Counts!

Yeh Hain Mumbai Meri Jaan_100 Things x 1

I chanced upon a list of 100 things to do in Mumbai and almost every one of them brings back memories of times spent gallivanting around the city! Each of us have our own 'things to do' in the city we love, the city that runs through our memory veins and the city that has the ability to bring out the best AND the worst in us.

I reproduce this list as is here with my comments on some of the things I have done, yet to do and my own interpretation of some that I am attached to:

1. Get high on Qawaali at Haji Ali - Not sure about the Qawaali but totally worth walking through the slippery, rocky path that lead up to the Masjid and then do the 'maatha teko'. Make sure the head is covered as a form of respect to the place. It is a norm.

2. Spot a celebrity at Juhu PVR

3. Sit down on the steps of Asiatic Society Library - and watch the world go by!

4. Crane your neck to see the Bombay Stock Exchange building - The site of watching brokers and those alike on-the-go and on-the-phone. For a photographer, it would be fun to capture images and expressions of these individuals.

5. Spot a leopard in IIT Bombay Campus. If you can't, settle for an IITian girl.

6. Enjoy a play in Prithvi Theatre - absolutely! A personal favorite!! And not to forget, some hot coffee to sip along with some brownies too. If keen on dinner, some aloo paratha with kaali dal and raita!

7. Enjoy the NCPA in a play or opera - their experimental theatre showcases some of the best talents in the city! Also, it can be followed by some good road-side Chinese food if those stalls still exist considering, they were banned at several places.

8. Find some calm around the Banganga Tank - I'd say, visit this place during the Banganga Festival. It is priceless!

10. Haggle for non-antiques in Chor Bazaar - they say, you never know what will be handed to you!

11. Face the high tide on Worli seaface - and thereafter, munch on some grilled veggie sandwiches and gulp down Energy! If its a rainy day, how about a cup of tea and some butta?

12. Bet money on race horses at the Royal Western Indian Turf Club, Mahalaxmi - More of a fashion show and since I am always low on cash, I would avoid this one. However, I would recommend some nice brunch at Gallops and watch the horses trot.

13. Dangle your feet, lean back on your palms and enjoy the sea from the Marine Drive promenade - Apply #7 and latter part of #10 here as well.

14. Go for a heritage walk in the Naval Dockyard (first Sunday of every month, Indian nationals only) - Wow, this sounds intriguing! Will try it the next time I am in the city.

15. Explore the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. A National Park in the city limits? Oh yeah! - Totally recommend this one. It seems there is less-travelled path that leads form Borivili to Powai (An IITian friend did this one!) and some of us friends did attempt on this one, after bunking a dreary lecture but 15 minutes into the stretch and we returned!! But do recommend Kanheri Caves and rock-climbing.

16. Soak in the Victoria Terminus - Delight to the eyes at night and something to soak in! Also, interesting is to hop on a 'shared' cab ride during peak times from here. You'd be surprised at the kind of people that would ride with you.

17. Watch DDLJ at Maratha Mandir - Come Fall in Love?? Totally cheezy! I am not a big fan of this movie yet, everytime it plays on TV, I tend to grab some moments from there. While Maratha Mandir has set a Guiness Record by showing this movie for the last 14 years (kidding!!), I am not sure how it'd be to watch it from there. Nevertheless, visiting MM is an fun considering the booming multiplexes that have made these ornate structures redundant.

18. Park at Hard Rock Cafe and mourn for a minute the death of mills around Parel.

19. Jog on Juhu Beach - The stretch next to the Godrej Bungalow near Holiday Inn is one of the better stretches to jog on. And not to forget, the indulgence of GOLA and all of #84 out here! Also, some kiddie moments of merry-go-rounds out here could be a good laugh.

20. Sit on a tetropod at Nariman Point in midnight till the police constables shoo you away.

21. Stand still on the flyover bridge at Dadar station and watch the crowd whiz by you - And if you are a woman, be prepared to get molested with n number of men touching you briskly. Yet, changing the trains from western to central lines at Dadar station at peak times is an experience to cherish. Kudos to people I know who did this every single day and to those who do so as I write!

22. Find out who is grittier You or Crawford Market? - The butchers' market area is extremely gory and I do think I can ever visit that part again!

23. Find the Fort Wall - now this would be interesting. I know that the Khaadi Bhandaar, Horniman Circle Gardens, Kala Ghoda are all part of this wall and mesmerizing to the core! But will have to see if I can spot the Wall beyond those vendors. On another note, a total must is to (a) enjoy the Kala Ghoda Festival (#92) and (b) watch a play/musical at the Horniman Circle Gardens. This can transform you to a magical night of light, color and grandeur.

24. Ride the Victoria on Marine Drive.

25. Discover the city's Jewish connect at Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue - added to my to-do list. I learnt more about this during the 26/11 attacks on the Jews.

Yeh Hain Mumbai Meri Jaan_ 100 Things x 2

26. Watch the sunset over Aksa Beach in Madh Island - If I had to go this far, I'd choose the Renaissance in Powai overlooking the lake. Also, the sunset from Haji Ali (#1), from the upcoming sea-link, from the princess necklace they are all worth it!

27. Discover the underbelly of Mumbai in Dharavi - and make sure you do not get lost! On second thoughts, get lost and see where you land. If you are a shopoholic, venture into one of the leather shops and check out how the store owners boast about the display look-alikes of Louis Vitton, Gucci, Nine West, Prada and many more.

28. Stay for a night at Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. You definitely want to tick off this luxury address for the oh-I-stayed-there-for-a-while conversations. - More of the NRI types but worth being pampered at the Taj even if it means going to any of their restaurants or a massage at their salon. They surely know the essence of hospitality.

29. Catch the national madness of cricket in Oval Maidan.

30. Cheer a football match at Cooperage ground - and cricket at the Bombay Gymkhana especially if it is between the Xavierians and their Alumni!

31. Bury your nose in books for hours at Strand - enjoy bun-maska with tea at the corner and check out some souvenirs at the Bombay Store.

32. Stroll in Bombay University.

33. Climb the airport wall in Kurla to gain a phenomenal view of Boeings - I thought this was wired after it got destroyed during the 26/07 rains.

34. Swoon at a concert in Bandra Kurla Complex - worth visiting is the BKC gardens right ahead and enjoy the serenity there. It is a rare to spot such a place in the city unless it has already been infested by civilization.

35. Gaze at the Queen's Necklace from the Hanging Gardens at dusk - there used to be Cafe Naaz which was the bestest place to hang out. Sad they demolished it :-(

36. Hunt for antique furniture in Oshiwara.

37. Hike up the Mazgaon Hill.

38. Buy books from roadsides around Flora Fountain - one can get all kinds of banned books and some weird ones with spoofs on Men are from Mars...

39. Enjoy the private palaces of Malabar Hill - with flourishing towers, few exist. Nevertheless, the drive up and down the Hill are nice especially the latter which merges into an open stretch to get the first glance of the ocean.

40. Part on a ferry in the Arabian Sea off Gateway of India - how about ferrying up to the Elephanta Caves especially during the festival?

41. Take a break from the city. Vasai offers the ramparts of Bassein fort, ruins of Portuguese churches and East Indian food.

42. Trek in the Sahayadris - The best is Bhimashankar especially during the monsoons. Another thing during the monsoons is rafting in the Ulhaas River. Good rapids on the west coast of India!

43. Say hello to the fauna at Byculla Zoo.

44. Buy a camera from D N Road's gray market.

45. Dare the red light district of Kamathipura - this is not as bad as it sounds. Kind of overhyped and walking during broad day light, you do come face-to-face with stark reality that makes you wonder who is living in a bubble - them or you.

46. Guess what RFID system they use to tag clothes at the Dhobi Ghat - forget that. Just visiting the Ghats in unique and a photographer's delight. One needs to get there by 7am. Better still, watch as the sun sets it first rays on the Ghats as the beloved dhobis get to their act.

47. Take a power nap at David Sassoon Library.

48. Catch movies at art-deco cinemas: Regal, Eros, Metro - Sterling would top my list here.

49. Bow your head before the city's famou deities: Mumbadevi (where it all began!!), Mahalaxmi (Sunset view is awesome), Walkeshwar (beautiful architecture), Siddhivinayak (overrated but a must-do when in Mumbai), Iskcon (extremely serene..do try the coffee here)

50. Dine where Shahrukh Khans and Ness Wadias dine: Olive, Indigo. - If you do want to splurge, I would actually recommend Souk at Taj, Franjipani at Oberoi or Emperor's Court at Renaissance (The view from here is to die for).

Yeh Hain Mumbai Meri Jaan_100 Things x 3

51. Feel the sufi mystism at dargahs of Haji Ali and Maqdoom Ali Mahimi.

52. Shop at the Bandra boutiques or if they are too expensive give Hill Road or Fashion Street a shot - Hill Road for sure. However, the best road-side shopping is Colaba Causeway followed by # 78.

53. Gape at famous residences: Shahrukh Khan's Mannat, Amitabh Bacchan's Jalsa - They all look the same to me and Ricky, no Shahrukh does not own an Island, he merely lives on one like other 13 million!

54. Discover the theatre scene in the city at venues other than Prithvi and NCPA: Sophia, St. Andrews, Rangsharda, Ravindra Natya Mandir.

55. Explore the Powai and Vihaar lakes - How can I ever forget the school picnics that were to these two destinations. Once considered as outskirts of the city are very much a part of sprawling township.

56. Visit the museums: Prince of Wales, Monetary, Modern Art, Mani Bhavan - these are not much to write home about and hope can be well-preserved. Mani Bhavan has something for a Gandhian and would be worth walking to the August Kranti Marg (rather what little remains of this historic site). The Prince of Wales Museum (now known as the Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vaastu Sangrahalaya) is in one of the most precious areas of the city and has a grandeur image to it. Albeit in a run-down state of preservation, least one can do is pay a nominal fee of Rs. 5 (is that even a fee??) to find some pre-historic jewels, armours and artefacts.

57. Admire the British era architecture in Fort: Churchgate station, Western Railway headquarters, High Court, General Post Office, Telegraph Office, Police Headquarters - Mumbai, considered as one of the Victorian Gothic cities of the world, has been endowed by the British with a legacy of divergent styles. Totally worth checking these sites.

58. Learn about the rock-cut architecture: Elephanta, Kanheri, Mahakali and Karla Caves.

59. Explore the churches: Gloria church Byculla, Portugese, Mt. Mary Bandra, St. Michaels Mahim, St. Thomas Flora Fountain, Wodehouse Colaba, Afghan Church Navy Nagar, Our Lady of Salvation Dadar, St. Andrews Bandra - Mt. Mary's offers the best of times during the Bandra Fair every September.

60. Check out an art exhibition: Jehangir Art Gallery Fort, Tao Art Gallery Worli, Piramal Art Gallery Nariman Point - And if you do visit Jehangir Art Gallery, it is imperative you have Aloo Paratha and Raita at Cafe Samovar.

61. Buy fish at Sassoon Docks, Cuffe Parade or Dockyard Road, Mazgaon.

62. Find the forst of Mumbai: Bombay Castle, Castella de Aguada, Madh Fort, Mahim Fort, Sion Fort, Sewri Fort, Worli Fort.

63. Buy a vintage bollywood poster in Mini market or Lamington Road - Of course! Countless argumants I used to have with my mom about my 'justification' to have these posters in my room. What was I thinking?

64. Get away to the beaches around Mumbai: Alibag, Kashid, Murud, Nagaon.

65. Travel to places overnight: Goa, Ajanta Ellora, Mahabaleshwar, Pune, Khandala, Lonavala - Each place has its own USP, some for commercial purposes too. My favorites are Panchgani and to enjoy the beach, the cleanest stretch in Ganpatiphule in those fancy MTDC tents.

66. Discover the charm of marble tabletops, bentwood chairs and Irani chai at Parsi cafes - Sometimes it can be an overdoze if you work for a Parsi conglomerate.

67. Catch behind the scenes action at a Bollywood studio - They still have the sets used in epic series like Mahabaratha and Ramyana. Also, the view atop the hills in Goregaon is simply brilliant, what with a view of the growing sky-scrappers vis-a-vis the stumbling slums.

68. Loft the ball for a six in your neighbouring 'galli' cricket but make sure you do not break any window panes - and spot how the girls outweigh the boys!

69. Silently stare at the Towers of Silence and Agiaries.

70. Shadow the dabbawalas for one full day - this sounds like fun!

71. Walk through a koliwada.

72. Ride a vintage lift in a 100-year old building - true! Also, the liftmen here are more vintage than the life itself.

73. Travel in a local train. How about the Virar fast? - Check #20.

74. Ride in a double-decker bus. Isn't Mumbai the only city where they still run them? - To ride them on the Marine Drive-Chowpatty stretch is scenic.

75. If you have made it to a penthouse in Mumbai, you might as well enjoy the view.

Yeh Hain Mumbai Meri Jaan _100 Things x 4

76. Drink cutting chai, eat vada pav - Any nook-corner of the city has its own taste of these. From Colaba to Virar, this diet is the heart of the city. Also, do try out the jhunka-bhakar at VT station.

77. Gorde on late-night sandwiches in Juhu.

78. Sip some wine at an expensive seaside restaurant: Vie Lounge Juhu, Dome Marine Drive, Aurus Juhu, Salt Water Grill Chaupatty.

79. Figure out what all the fuss is about having a beer in Mondegar or Leopold - You wouldn't want to miss this one. And do not forget the jukebox!

80. Jack your car bonnet using a cold-drink bottle and eat kebabs at Bade Miyaan in Taj's back alley - I was told that only the small bottles work for this one but this is worth a visit past midnight.

81. Savour a fine authentic meal of East Indian cuisine at Anant Ashram.

82. Eat a Gujarati-Marwari thali at Friends Union Joshi club in Kalbadevi - Personal favorite is the Thakkers at Marine Lines especially during the Mango season.

83. Smoke a hookah at roof-top restaurant Koyla in the Arab quarters of Colaba.

84. Eat South Indian fare in Matunga - Ashit would top this to the list!

85. Eat pav bhaji, pani puri, bhel puri, sev puri at Girgaum Chaupatty - Taste of the city lie in these items!

86. Chew a paan outside Shoppers' Stop, Bandra W - Mucchad Pan at Peddar Road cannot be beaten. He is a pan eater's addiction, an obsession. Do not believe me? Watch this.

87. Indulge yourself with fruity flavors of Naturals ice-cream. And if its summer, try a cup of Alfonso mangoes with malai ice-cream.

88. Learn the art of ordering tea in a streetside cafe "Ek Paani Kum Dena".- And also the art of drinking from those tiny 'shot' glasses which I am yet to get it right.

89. Drink Kingfisher, Cobra or Zingaro in your neighborhood look-alike bar of nightlovers - Naaah...these are boring. How about some sugarcane juice outside the Taj? That is to die for! However, I would not vouch for your gastronomic system to support it.

90. Try green chilli ice-cream at Bachelors - before that, some masala Khichyaa papad 'pizza' look-alike for sure!

91. Swing to some live music as you enjoy your continental meal at Not Just Jazz By the Bay. Do pay attention to the witty hoarding outside as you leave the place - True to its words 'Not Just...', it is fun karaoking to some rendition with a bunch of buddies.

92. Run the Mumbai Marathon - to support a cause!

93. Enjoy the Kala Ghoda Art Festival - and soak in the merriment.

94. Cheer 'Mumbai Indians' in an IPL cricket match at Wankhede Stadium - would be unlikely if the IPL is moved out of India. However, simply cheer India for a cricket match at the Wankhede but make sure that the tickets you purchase are genuine and not sold in black. The cops there know their job well and if caught, you can land in the local police station watching the match with the remaining havaldaars. Do not believe me? Ask my brother.

95. Get drenched to the bone while biking in the monsoons - quintessence of Mumbai, the city's monsoons are simply to rejoice and soak in pleasure.

96. Sing 'Govinda Aala Re Aala' as 40 feet high human pyramids take the prized matka - of course!! And if this is part of your community, make sure you do contribute decent amount into the matki. Else, it is not fair to them.

97. Get lost in the crowds of Ganesh Chaturthi - Totally!

98. Watch thousands of pink flamingos in the mangroves at Sewri - Another delight to the D90 and Cannon powershot owners but I hear this would be extinct due to the demolition of mangroves along that live :-(

99. Eat Nihari Kebabs and sweetmeats around Masjid on the eve of Eid.

100. Run a 'free hug' campaign. This is Mumbai, Meri Jaan - Jaadoo Ki Jappi always works!

And yet as I end this list, I feel it does not do justice to a zillion things one can come up to be in this Maximum City. Feel free to add your own experience to this.

To Ponder....and Happy Holidays!

With the on-going discussions about Mumbai attacks, I had a rather interesting conversation with a colleague who wanted to know more about India and why I wanted to go back. While the latter was pretty easy, what took me aback was the fact that I was not able to succinctly describe what my own country is all about. For a moment there, I was embarrassed (and quite ashamed) of not being able to talk with eloquence of the nation I am so attached to, whose roots have been nurtured for long and the one I deeply care for. Of course, we did babble about stuff like Unity in Diversity, Vedas, Religion, Culture, Family and Cricket. And then there was Gandhi too. But really, those were not my first flashes of India during the chat. I frankly do not know why I was unable to articulate what India is really all about but then again, the concept of India itself is nebulous enough that cannot be justified in one obvious answer. One may call that an excuse for me to not describe this entity, but how else could I lucidly substantiate a country with one-billion people of varying regions, practices, languages and even modes of communication among varied others? So this reminded me of a long list of contributions that India have, till date, made towards global development since ancient times.

We all have our own interpretations and definitions that permeate the other. One of my favourites though is the way Rabindranath Tagore describes India in 'Mind Without Fear' from Gitanjali:

Where the Mind is without Fear and the Head is Held High;
Where Knowledge is Free;
Where the World has not been Broken up into Fragments by Narrow Domestic Walls;
Where Words come out from the Depth of Truth;
Where tireless striving Stretches its arms towards perfection;
Where the mind is led forward by Thee into ever-widening thought and action -
Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake!

If you have any of your own, do share the same. As I get set to revisit my roots, and seek more answers to the same, I wish you all Happy Holidays - one with peace, love and hope.

Here's to the year that has gone by....
and to the one we would all wake up to!

Bilqis - Our Unsung Heroes?

I used to hum to the tune of Rabbi Shergill’s latest song Bilqis everytime it would play on my Itunes. Like most of his previous songs (remember Bulla?), it takes a keen ear to comprehend the lyrics and when I would hear Bilqis, the only lines I could understand clearly are:

Jinhe Naaz Hai Hind Par, Who Kahan The (Where were those who are proud of India?)

Just a while ago, I heard this song, yet again and somehow, got totally haunted by it. That’s because I only realized it now that this is not a song per se but an account of sorts, to pay tribute to four heroes of our country! Isn’t it a remarkable concept to narrate injustice in a way that it actually hits us? And while Rabbi is popular with his Sufi songs, this one goes to a different a level altogether. In a melodious yet inspiring note, Rabbi sings out emotions of four of our unsung heroes in the quest for what they truly believed in (and died for).

Mera Naam Bilqis Yakub Rasul (My name is Bilqis Yakub Rasul)
Mujhse Hui Bas Ek Hi Bhul (Only one mistake did I make)
Ki Jab Dhundte The Vo Ram Ko (that when they were looking for Rama)
To Main Kharhi Thi Raah Mein (I was right there)
Pehle Ek Ne Puchha Na Mujhe Kuch Pata Tha (First, one asked me but I knew nothing)
Duje Ko Bhi Mera Yehi Javab Tha (my answer was the same to another)
Itno Ne Puchha Ki Mera Abb Saval Hai Ki (So many asked me and now I ask)
Jinhe Naaz Hai Hind Par Vo Kahan The Jinhe Naaz Hai Vo Kaha

Muslim woman from Gujarat, five-months pregnant and mother to a three-year-old son, Bilqis Yakoob Rasool is one of the victims (and how!) of the Godhra massacre of February 2002. Fourteen members of her family were killed during this attack. Bilqis reported it all to police, but the case was closed in January 2003. The police said that those responsible could not be found. In spite of the risks in taking the unusual step of speaking out, Bilqis continued to pursue justice for herself and her family. The case was closed due to lack of strong evidence but has reopened for further investigation and is still ongoing.

Mera Naam Shriman Satyendra Dubey (My name Mr. Satyendra Dubey)
Jo Kehna Thha Vo Keh Chukey (I have already said what I wanted to)
Ab Parhey Hain Rah Mein (Now I lie on the road)
Dil Mein Liye Ik Goli (with a bullet in my heart)
Bas Itna Kasur Ki Hamne Likha Thha (My only fault was that I wrote)
Vo Sach Jo Har Kisi Ki Zuban Thha (the truth which was known to everyone)
Par Sach Yahan Ho Jatey Hain Zahriley (But the truth here is poisonous)
Jinhe Naaz Hai Hind Par Vo Kahan The Jinhe Naaz Hai Vo Kahan Hain

Satyendra Kumar Dubey was assassinated in November 2003 in Bihar due to his fight against corruption in the Golden Quadrilateral Highway Construction. A Foundation has been created in his name to fight corruption in India.

Mujhe Kehte Hain Anna Manjunath (I am Manjunath, brother)
Maine Dekhi Bhatakti Ek Laash (I saw a corpse)
Zamir Ki Beech Sarhak Lakhimpur Kherhi (in the middle of a road in Lakhimpur Kherhi)
Adarsh Phasan Jahan Naaron Mein (where ideals are attached to campaigns)
Aur Chor Bhare Darbaaron Mein (and courts are filled with thieves)
Vahan Maut Akhlaq Ki Hai Ik Khabar Baasi (there is stale news in death)
Jinhe Naaz Hai Hind Par Vo Kahan Hain Jinhe Naaz Hai Vo Kahan Hain

Manjunath, an employee at the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) was murdered for closing down two petrol stations in Lakhimpur Kheri for selling contaminated fuel. This issue stirred an uprising among students at various Institutes including IIM and IIT and has led to setting up of the Manjunath Shanmugam Trust to fight this case as well as focus on governance in the public sector in India.

Maza Nau Aahe Navleen Kumar (My name is Navleen Kumar)
Unnees June Unnees Bar (June 19th, 19 times)
Unnees Unnees Unnees Unnees Unnees Baar Unnees Unnees Unnees Unnees Unnees Unnees Unnees Unnees Unnees Unnees Unnees Unnees Unnees Baar (19 times chanted ‘19’ times)
Looto Dehaat Kholo Bazaar (steal open markets)
Nallasopara Aur Virar (Nalasopara and Virar)
Chheeno Zameen Hamse Hamein (take away our land from us)
Bhejo Pataal (send us to hell)
Jinhe Naaz Hai Hind Par Vo Kahan Hain Jinhe Naaz Hai Vo Kahan Hain

Navleen Kumar was stabbed 19 times to death on June 19, 2002 as a response to her activist work for the land rights of tribals in Nalasopara, suburb in the outskirts of Mumbai. Her fight was mainly against various builders who had seized land of the tribals through fraud and terror.

Now, as I write this blog, it raises a question in my mind, “Am I proud of my country?” The answer to that is evident in who I am today, and what my country is , defines me in more ways than one. I hope you like this video - note, especially the strumming of the National Anthem in between the verses:

Life Persists...a Tribute

Words fail me as I see this video - with sadness, tears fill my eyes but with hope, love abounds.


A Tribute to Mumbai
Karsh Kale
for November 26, 2008

In the midst of death,
Life persists;
In the midst of untruth,
Truth persists;
In the midst of darkness,
Light persists.
Hence I gather that
God is Life, Truth, Light.
He is Love
He is Supreme Good.

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi
October 20, 1931

I Vote Nobody?

There is an email doing the rounds recently, in light of elections in India (and also the current attacks in Mumbai):

Did you know that there is a system in our Constitution, as per the 1969 act, in section '49-O' that a person can go to the polling booth, confirm his identity, get his finger marked and convey to the presiding election officer that he does not want to vote anyone! Yes, such a feature is available, but obviously, these seemingly notorious leaders have never disclosed it.
This is called 49-O.
Why should you go and say, 'I VOTE NOBODY' because, in a ward, if a candidate wins, say by 123 votes, and that particular ward has received 49-O votes more than 123, then that polling will be cancelled and will have to be re-polled. Not only that, but the candidature of the contestants will be removed and they cannot contest the re-polling, since people had already expressed their decision on them. This would bring fear into parties and hence look for genuine candidates for their parties for election. This would change the way of our whole political system. It is seemingly surprising why the election commission has not revealed such a feature to the public. Please spread this news to as many as you know.Seems to be a wonderful weapon against corrupt parties in India. Show your power, expressing your desire not to vote for anybody, is even more powerful than voting. So don’t miss your chance. So either vote, or vote not to vote (49-O) and pass this info on.
Use your voting rights for a better INDIA.

My fellow Indians, this is a total hoax created by some dimwits out there. There is no such Section in the Indian Constitution or even a 1969 Act. Here is the factual information on 49-O from The Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961:

"49-O Elector deciding not to vote: If an elector, after his electoral roll number has been duly entered in the register of voters in Form-17A and has put his signature or thumb impression thereon as required under sub-rule (1) of rule 49L, decided not to record his vote, a remark to this effect shall be made against the said entry in Form 17A by the presiding officer and the signature or thumb impression of the elector shall be obtained against such remark."

So as it states above, the rule is mainly an administrative guideline created by the Electoral office especially with reference to voters who simply decide not to vote. Hence, in such situations, the office may want to keep a record of voters’ negative votes used to tally the total voting ballots gathered. It just does not take into account a vote in favor/against that particular candidate. So it has no bearing on the overall results of the elections! And in no manner can it really cancel ‘polling’ if the candidate’s majority is less than the 49-O votes.

In fact, in the proposed electoral reforms by the Election Commission of India, which was forwarded to the Prime Minister of India in 2004, the following was suggested:

The Commission has received proposals from a very large number of individuals and organizations that there should be a provision enabling a voter to reject all the candidates in the constituency if he does not find them suitable. In the voting using the conventional ballot paper and ballot boxes, an elector can drop the ballot paper without marking his vote against any of the candidates, if he chooses so. However, in the voting using the Electronic Voting Machines, such a facility is not available to the voter. Although, Rule 49-O of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961 provides that an elector may refuse to vote after he has been identified and necessary entries made in the Register of Electors and the marked copy of the electoral roll, the secrecy of voting is not protected here in as much as the polling officials and the polling agents in the polling station get to know about the decision of such a voter. The Commission recommends that the law should be amended to specifically provide for negative / neutral voting. For this purpose, Rules 22 and 49B of the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961 may be suitably amended adding a proviso that in the ballot paper and the particulars on the ballot unit, in the column relating to names of candidates, after the entry relating to the last candidate, there shall be a column to enable a voter to reject all the candidates, if he chooses so. Such a proposal was earlier made by the Commission in 2001 (vide letter dated 10.12.2001). (A petition by the People’s Union for Civil Liberties seeking such a provision filed at the time of the recent general elections is pending before the Hon’ble Supreme Court)

[Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/49-o which may not be the most official source, nevertheless a reference of sorts for those wanting to do further reading and enlighten those spreading false statements]

Democracy does not merely mean freedom of speech and expression but really the responsibility to adhere to those very words. Election is the life-line of a democratic nation so let that be a responsibility we carry and not merely shun it with the hope of better India.

In light of the voting issues, we as the voters of our country need to be enlightened, alert and conscientious in ensuring that the right candidate is infact elected. So in order to pursue this, it becomes critical in ensuring that we the voters are educated and informed of these candidates and not merely finding such useless statements and basing decisions on them. It is time we come out of such blame-game situations and indeed take concrete actions and responsibilities. Instead of criticizing and condemning, we the voters actually ought to cast the vote and choose a candidate most appropriate to lead our country. I thought this is realistically not possible till I witnessed the way in which America elected Barack Obama as the President after twice choosing Bush. If that is possible and when the entire country can chant to YES WE CAN, can we the Indians not follow suit? Can we not spare some moments of our lives in ensuring that we the voters take extra steps in the state of our nation that invariably affects all of us?