Movie Review: The Past 2013

Original  Title: Le Passe

Language: French

Is divorce/separation the end of a relationship? Technically yes, but it is, in fact, the beginning of a lot more. This is precisely what Iranian director Asghar Farhadi depicts in his latest domestic drama film ‘The Past’. Also as the title suggests, the movie is about one’s past and how it is never left behind. It has an ability to seep into our present and alter the course of our future.

There are obvious comparisons with his 2011 Oscar Winning film ‘A Separation’. It helps that I have not seen it and hence can analyze The Past in an objective light.

The Past is the story of Marie (Bérénice Bejo), a Frenchwoman, who is trying to finalise her divorce with her husband Ahmad (Ali Mosaffa). Ahmad had left her four years earlier to raise her two children from an earlier marriage (a young girl named Léa (Jeanne Jestin) and a teenager Lucie played by Pauline Burlet) alone in a working-class Paris suburb. Marie is looking to make a fresh start with her live-in boyfriend Samir (Rahman) and his young anxious son Fouad (Elyes Aguis). But is it so simple, a fresh start? Samir himself is dealing with a traumatic unresolved relationship with his wife.

Lives of these individuals are knotted in ways that wouldn’t be fair to explain. However as simple as the plot sounds, it really is not that straightforward. There are layers within layers that spring up unexpected twists and turns and further tangle the narrative thread. There are half-truths, misconceptions, allegations, suspicions and so much more. 

The complicated scenarios, the complex emotions and dilemma of the characters, their angst get you thinking. Divorce and separation, which are an integral part of the Western culture and increasingly gaining prominence in India too, bring a lot of problems and baggage with it. More often than not, children are the worst victims and this is wonderfully portrayed in this film.

All the characters are so wonderfully developed and that is the strong point of the film. Farhadi shows you each character’s perspective and you feel how they would feel. You realize that sometimes no one is to blame, it is just the situation and not much can be done about it. Even moving on is not so easy.

Besides weaving a tale of complicated relationships so wonderfully, Farhadi’s brilliance is evident from the fact that the movie is in French, a language he doesn’t himself speak. But language barrier is not a problem and even the finer nuances are dealt with suitably.

The Past has outstanding performances. While Bejo undoubtedly steals the show, both Mosaffa and Rahman are good, the stars are Fouad and Lucie. Some scenes involving them will spellbind you. Lucie especially is par excellence in her role of the rebellious, angst-filled teenager. Plus she is strikingly gorgeous.

Even though it is out of the race for Best Foreign Language Film, The Past is a wonderfully crafted drama on relationships and emotions. It has a lot to offer and if you are into foreign language films, you have to watch it!

Rating: 7.8/10

Once - A Musical Journey

I had heard the soundtrack of Once long back and loved it. The movie looked good too but I never watched it until today. In between I had heard and read so much about it that expectations were fairly high. And I wasn't disappointed! Being an ardent music lover, I fancy musicals so it was half the battle won. Plus I like the Brit/Irish accent :) However, Once stands out for its simplicity, modesty and earnest performances.

The movie is set in Dublin. Interestingly both the protagonists are not given names. The guy (Glen Hansard) is a street musician who plays the guitar and sings for money at night. During the day, he works in his father’s vacuum cleaner shop. His music attracts a young Czech girl (Marketa Irglova) who herself is a classically trained pianist. She takes him to a piano shop where she often goes to play the piano as she does not own one. It is here that they play a beautiful duet “Falling Slowly” (for which they both received an Academy Award for Best Original Song) and blossoms their short but delightful musical escapade.

The bond over music and he confides about his ex-girlfriend for whom he had been writing songs. She stays in old London and had betrayed him long back. However he is still in love with her, misses her but does not want to go get her. We also learn that the girl sells flowers and cleans a house for a living. She lives with her mother and little daughter Ivonka. Her husband is back in Czech Republic and things are not right between them. The marriage part comes as a surprise for him as he clearly did not expect that. However that doesn't change things between them.

The movie is not ambitious. Their love story is simple and beautiful. Music develops the plot further and all the songs are so beautiful. It helps that all of them were recorded by Glen and Marketa themselves. Neither of them are trained actors but musicians. Maybe that’s why their performances are so realistic. Plus it was during the filming of the movie that the two fell in love. This chemistry is visible on-screen as well. The bitter-sweet ending is realistic. It leaves you touched and happy that you witnessed this musical journey. 

Once is simple and straightforward. It was made on a shoestring budget and shot in merely 17 days with two new actors. And what a swell job done! It is magical and one you bound to get swayed. Once is one of the best musicals I have seen. Highly recommended, especially if you are a music lover :)

P.S. The movie has also motivated me to get going with my guitar practice, which has been moving at a snail's pace recently! :)

Happy Friendship Day! :)

Today Facebook is flooded with friendship messages and pictures. I don't really believe in a particular day to express one's feelings, whether it is Friendship Day or Valentines Day. I especially detest forward messages; can't identify with the concept of sending mass messages just because the day warrants so. So I did not call my friends or text them to wish Happy Friendship Day!

However it wasn't always like this and I was poignantly reminded of this today. On my way back in the metro, I spotted a gang of college kids chit-chatting, laughing, celebrating and having fun. They had friendship band on their wrists and a couple of them were carrying lovely bouquets. The excitement and fervour transported me back to my college days.

Those days Friendship Day was an occasion for grand celebration - cards, gifts, flowers, messages, phone calls. Moreover it used to set the tone for my birthday. I remember in 1st year of college, my friends had sent cards by post first for Friendship Day and then for my birthday. So I used to receive 1-2 cards almost every day. Some of the pg girls mocked, some were envious and other just happy about the bond that I had with my friends. They said they had never received so many cards at one time J I really used to be the enthusiastic one, planning and coordinating with everyone, ensuring that I met most of my friends on that special day.

Now we do change with time and today such celebrations do seem kiddish. But does it mean that the day has lost its value just because we have grown up? During college we used to hang around with friends so often. It was then that another special day was not needed for us to express our love for friends.

In today’s busy world, we are barely in touch with our friends. All are busy in their respective lives – martial life, family and kids, career or studies. We all know that we care and love each other but the point is do we express it that often? Do we really get the time and space to do so? So it is not a good reason for us to take out some time and let friends know that they still are an important part of our lives. It might not be important to do it today, but the idea is to just express. And since I already feel it, I might as well do it today :)

Growing up, we do lose out on friends. I have lost a many and it has been tough. However that has only taught me to cherish friends and friendship all the more. To all those who have moved on, I thank them for teaching me this invaluable lesson. To the ones who have stuck and stuck in the real sense, being there always through the thick and thin, well a thank you is just not enough. You still have me, need you more ;) And to the ones who have newly come in, well you should be glad our paths crossed and you got the chance to know the amazing me ;) 

There are some names that have to come in here. Listing them in alphabetical order :)

Apurva – I have found a friend in a brother and what an incredible friend you are! Just love spending time with you, having those ‘intellectual’ conversations and sharing almost everything! Te quiero :)

Bhua – You were the friend that I always had, right from my childhood. I have grown up with you, learnt from you and imbibed so much from you. It’s been a blessing to have you in my life. Besides being an aunt, you have always been a friend. Love you :)

Joyee – It’s always been a roller-coaster ride with you. We are caught up in the web of life and our escapades are not that interesting. Time to add the ‘past’ tadka ;) Love! 

Mona – As I was growing up, I always missed having a sister; someone with whom I could share everything from crushes to heartbreaks, family troubles to personal issues. Someone who would be protective and not have any motive; and most importantly someone who would always be there coz she was family. I no longer miss having one. Love you so much sister :)

Moulshree – It’s commendable how we are yet to have our first fight. Eight years of togetherness. We were kinda lost in between but thanks to whatsapp we are in regular touch now. To more years of friendship! Also now that I am in Delhi, we should meet more often. So lets fix that long overdue trip soon. Dherai maya :)

Munish – I know a lot of people who find love on the internet. I found a true friend. The comfort and ease with which I share everything with you is commendable. You are forever so encouraging and supporting. Thanks for always being there. All our memories have been of the virtual world so far but doesn’t seem like we have not met yet. Having said that, I am really looking forward to seeing you, soon. Love you pal :)

Nicky – Frankly, I really miss ‘us’ – Nicky & Nanny, especially coz I am in Delhi now. I need to take more effort to be in touch. But we have seen worse in terms of no communication, and we will survive this as well. You continue to be my alter-ego girl. Much love :)

Nupur – Oh I am so delighted that you are a part of my life! Did not know back then that a by chance phone call would blossom into this marvellous friendship that we share. I so miss spending time with you. Hopefully we will relive those moments soon. I am truly, truly blessed to have a wonderful friend like you. Love you my honey-bunny ;)

Pranav – We have been going through a rough patch of late, and all thanks to me. Irrespective of that I want you to know that you are a good friend and I care for you. I like that you have an opinion about things and voice it too and that you feel strongly for causes that you believe in. I love having discussions and arguments about almost everything. We have shared good times and I want us to get back to it. I miss those days and now I take the onus. Love you Joshi :)

Shashank – You care for me, you make me feel special, you bring out the best in me (and sometimes the worst) – you just make me feel alive. I am just glad to have you in my life. Love you!

To all my other friends, wish you Happy Friendship day! :)

Naughty Nupur - Part II

There had to be a part two for this post as I wanted to write about some more things. These are basically some memories that Nupur and I have shared. It's not possible to write down all, but just some of them are mentioned here: The first one definitely has to be my birthday cake. We had just a week ago and I had mentioned that I was really crazy about my birthday. But that year, in 2009, there happened to be a strike on 11th and I was already feeling low about it. So on 10th August around 10 pm the door bell rang. It was the delivery boy from Victoria Junction. Poor guy! He had been roaming around with that cake for more than an hour. The reason – incorrect address! Instead of mentioning Silverline Hotel, you’d given the address as opposite Tourist Lodge, which happens to be in Kurseong. How on earth was he supposed to find it? He finally did, with a lot of asking around. Now I was curious who had sent it. The first one was from Appu, and I’d pretty much guessed this one was from you. I asked the delivery boy but he did not have much to tell me. Only he gave me that paper where you’d written down the address. Do you remember what happened the next day? We’d gone to Victoria in the evening and that guy sees us there and tells me “Cake inhone ne hi order kiya tha”.

Next up are our Saturday hangouts at CCD and of course the rain that accompanied every week. Well you mentioned in your comment in the earlier post that I had missed out on the rain. No sweetie. How could I have? It’s just that I had this idea of a next post and had saved it for here. So, what days they were! And what rain too! Every Saturday we used to meet and then it used to rain, and rain heavily. Remember how we once got stuck in Cosmos for a real long time. Then finally we left. We had no umbrellas and there was no luck in getting the autos. So we were just walking. We were so totally drenched. But what fun it was! That time it was a protocol that if we met up, it had to rain. We used to so look forward to it. But seriously those were fun days. All we would do is chat chat chat, and chat nonstop, about anything and everything. It’s so different now. We are always talking about serious stuff. We should do something like those days sometime soon. What say? No serious talks, no tension – just let loose and enjoy!

There are various other things – the morning walks, the coffes, the movies, the night stays, shopping, talking and so much more. Like I said it’s been good. I don’t remember of a time when we have had a disagreement, forget about a fight. Touchwood! No, but seriously, this is commendable. Guess we just have the same wavelength and get along well. And now that I see time running out, I want to make the most of the days that you are here. We should meet often now :)

Naughty Nupur :)

A day in the first week of August 2009 it was. I was speaking to this friend of mine. My parents were out of station and I had lots of free time with nothing much to do. I was sort of bored. I happened to mention this to that friend and he immediately said that he had a friend in Siliguri, from Guwahati, who too stayed alone and did not know too many people here. He told me she was an RJ with Misty. The moment he mentioned her name, I asked him, “Naughty Nupur”? He sounded excited and enquired if I knew her or followed her show or something. No, I told him. I must have heard it on the radio sometime while switching channels. He asked me if I would like to speak to her. I said I had no issues. Normally I would not have been keen on knowing a friend’s friend. Definitely not someone I had never met. But I so readily agreed to speak to Nupur. Maybe we were destined to meet!

Ok jokes apart, we were talking about it and then I had to hang up for a while as I had to go to the kitchen. I was making pasta that day, I so vividly remember. We resumed our conversation in sometime. It was one of those ‘catching-up’ days when you’re speaking to a long lost friend after ages and so obviously have lots to talk about. At that time there was a call waiting, but even before I could check the number the line got disconnected. He asked me what number it was. Why would he be bothered, I wondered! He seemed to have read my mind and told me that it could be Nupur. What!! I was taken aback because that was real quick. He had just mentioned her some ten minutes ago. She couldn’t be calling so soon. Well, this would have been my reaction under normal circumstances. But that day I did not find anything strange about it. Maybe it was because things were happening in such quick succession or like I said earlier, it was destiny. Anyway, we checked the number and it was her. He hung up and said she would perhaps try again. She did, soon and we spoke for the first time. It was a short and nice conversation. So that was how we both were introduced, over the phone. So when did we meet next? Well that same night. Yes! Something must have really clicked between us because it was not a usual meet at a coffee shop or something. She came for a stay-over at my place. Like I mentioned earlier, it just happened so suddenly. In fact our common friend too was surprised. He said he had expected us to gel well, but not so instantly that she was staying over at my place that same night. Well the rest as they say is history.

I’ve now known her for almost two years and it’s been so much fun. Nupur is a sweetheart. She is extremely lively and absolutely fun-loving; we’ve had some crazy moments together. She is full of positive vibes and is the right person to meet when you are low. She passes on that energy to you and lifts your spirits up. She has so much of energy and can talk non-stop. Yes she speaks a lot, and why not. She gets paid to do that, so she better talk, and talk a great deal. In fact she gets so carried away when she is talking, she doesn’t realize when she gets loud. Especially, if it is a closed space, like a coffee shop, I always have to gesture her to be softer. I love the way she has a twinkle in her eyes at that time. She is someone with a pure heart, who doesn’t know any pretence whatsoever. This is what I love about her the most and this is why I can be totally myself with her. It is so just relaxing to be in her company. Today, she is my only friend in Siliguri but I’ve never really felt the need of having more friends with her around. I am so thankful that I met her. I’m saying this not because everyone says this about his/her friend. It is because I’ve realized something. It’s easy to meet thousands of people, befriend dozens and be good friends with some of them. But even out of these, it is just a few people who come into your life and make a difference. They teach you many things and you form a great bond with them. Life moves on and so might they, but then will have left an indelible mark in your life. Nupur has already left this mark :)

You will soon be going away and I am going to miss you a great deal, not because I am going to be very lonely (which I will be) but because I really love spending time with you. I cherish the moments spent with you. I’m going to miss spending time with you. In fact I think I’ve begun missing you already! I love you :)

Just Like That :)

My friend Nupur had stayed over for the night a couple of days ago and I happened to mention my blog to her. She told me she had never seen it. That came as a surprise to me because we’ve been friends (good friends that too) for almost two years now and I usually share my blog link with close pals! So I asked her if she wanted to go through it. She readily agreed.

We both started reading. I was simultaneously updating her about the various incidents that were penned down there. We were both having a good time – me, recounting and re-living those memorable incidents and she listening to them with the usual sparkle in her eyes :)

Reading some posts, especially those about Nicky and Joyeeta, took us a good half an hour, or even more perhaps. And why not? They are two people which whom I’ve had a whole lot of fun and countless treasured moments. It was then that I realized two things. Firstly, my blog is mostly in the narrative form. It is either a recount of my experiences with various people or a record of situations/events. Perhaps this is why some friends compliment me for my writing style and suggest that I should try my hands at writing a novel. Secondly, and more importantly, my blog has no mention of this very dear friend, who was sitting right beside me at that time. Maybe it is because from the time I’ve known her, I’ve not maintained my blog. Thus there is no mention of her or our friendship. But whatever be the case, it was there at that moment, that I realized that my next post had to be about her. She has been an important part of my life for quite some time now and I would love to talk about our escapades and the friendship that we share. I had begun writing about Music, something again that is very dear to me, but that has been sidelined for the time being. So Nupur, you will soon have a post dedicated to you :)

Tin, this is for you :)

It’s been a while since I have written anything or even visited my blog for that matter. The past one month I was busy traveling. I also finally visited Darjeeling :) But I will write about my traveling escapades later, in the next post perhaps. I assured a dear friend of mine that the next post on my blog would be for her. So Tin, this one is dedicated to you.

It was the same with Prachi and you. I did not like either of you initially. I was actually mad at Archana for introducing us. But then our route was common so it only made sense to travel together. I then started interacting with you’ll and realized it was not that bad after all. (However, to be honest, I had never thought that we would be such good pals one day.) Then you started working and so it was Prachi and me most of the time. Naturally we got closer and this aroused jealousy in you. As much as you deny it, the Shivaji Stadium incident was proof enough :P Now I know you would still say that you don’t remember a thing but then that was the fact!

Anyway we did have lots of fun… in the class, in various places @ CP especially CCD, the walk from BVB to the Metro station, the race at the station, then the metro ride, last minute hurried studies for the exams… it was all memorable! BVB had given me all this and two good friends to be cherished for lifetime :)

The next phase was when I was at Comma and you at Businesswire. This time we mostly met while traveling, especially when my office shifted to CP temporarily. We also had Chiki for company now. Come to think of it Tin, most of the time we have spent together has been while traveling. Like we said – metro partners! And we have so many unforgettable instances at different metro stations. Remember when Prachi and you managed to get out of the metro but I was trapped inside at Kashmere Gate. We were, rather I was, already late that day and to make things worse, the unnecessary delay. And similarly the next time @ Netaji I got in the train but you could not make it on time. Gosh, what amazing moments they were!

I am seriously glad I met you girl. I am not saying this only because of the fun times we have shared but for the reason that I like you as a person too. You are a fun-loving, bindaas, bubbly, chirpy girl, who maintains a perfect balance between friends and family, work and fun. I love your attitude towards life. I have seldom seen the emotional side of you; it has always been about the light happy moments. But I also know that beneath all this lies a matured, levelheaded persona who is extremely loveable.

You would soon be starting a new phase in your life. I wish you all the best. Love you…Muaah :)

Happy birthday dearest Bhai :)

Wish you a very happy birthday Bhai. This one is indeed very special for you – you are celebrating your 25th Birthday plus your engagement announcement exactly a week ago, adds to the celebration. I am sure all those numerous gifts, warmth and love from my would-be Bhabhi did make you feel special and made your day already. But there are other people too who care, a lot, it is just that they might not express it often. And I am of them.

Well, it is never easy to pen down our feelings for someone who is so dear to us. Sometimes we do not have the apt words, and sometimes it seems like words are not enough to express all that we want to say. When that someone is YOU – it is a Herculean task. And mind you, this is the second time (I shall not miss any opportunity to talk about the testimonial that I wrote for you and the one that is pending from your side ever since :P) I am attempting to write something about the remarkable bond that we share!   You know how our relation has been like. We have grown-up fighting – physical when we were kids and later on verbal, especially in college. We have outgrown those days, as we are matured now. But when I look back at all of it, I have a smile on my face.

Know what? Ever since childhood, I have pretty much been on my own. Most of friends at that time had elder brothers who, by their basic nature, were very possessive. I somehow missed that interference in my life and always wished I too had an elder brother. My friends told me I would not like it and they can really be a pain imposing restrictions and all that stuff. But you know how we always want something we don’t have. Similarly, I wanted someone to keep an eye on me and be concerned about my whereabouts. Things changed as I grew up, because my dominating attitude would not allow me to be under someone’s control. However, the desire to share that bond was always there. And today, I can so proudly say that my wish was granted. In fact I got much more – I got a wonderful friend in a brother.

You would soon be starting a new phase of your life and I wish you all the best. And yes, no matter the distance or time, you will always be a special and an important part of my life. Thanks so much for everything. Love you!

P.S. We don't have a single photograph together!!!!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

In the course of our lives we come across several people, befriend quite a many, and finally form close friendships with just a few of them. With time even these close friends depart, at times due to a reason and sometimes without any. We then make new friends, occasionally missing the old ones. And life goes on. However there are some who stick around stubbornly and go on to become a part of our lives. Also there are a number of people we might not be very close to, but they do leave a mark or influence us in some way or the other. It is people like these who make our lives beautiful.

These are those special people who are a part of my world and have left an impression some way or the other. 12 indeed seems like a huge number and mind you this is an only girls list [No specific reason for this]. Sometimes we take them for granted or hesitate to tell them what’s on our mind and how we feel for them. This is effort to let them know that they are indeed special and their presence makes a difference. I share an individual relation with each one of them and there can be no comparisons. But yes, I am fortunate to have known them. Love you all!

I was having difficulty in arranging the order and have finally decided to go chronologically. Starting with the person I met first…

Sweety: Her name says it all – she is sugary, extremely caring and is ready to walk that extra mile anytime for her friends and close ones. People who know her are indeed lucky. I am fortunate enough as we are cousins. But she has been more of a friend. I have admired, respected and loved her ever since I’ve understood the word FRIEND and known the meaning of friendship. Despite being sisters, we have exchanged lots of cards. People called it madness but I actually idealized her those days - always waiting to hear from her, looking forward to her cards and letters. However that was just one side of the picture as life is not just about roses. I am glad we experienced the rough phase as well as now I can say that it is a complete picture.

I had never anticipated having fights or arguments with her but we did and in great style. We did not fight verbally; it was worse – the cold war. The paradox of the situation – when we were far I always wanted to meet her and be with her. But when we were staying together in Delhi, there were times when we did not speak for more than a couple of days. I really do not regret any of it as it has only helped me to understand her better and made me closer to her. I love her lots and wish her the best in life.

Neha: I’ve known her for more than twelve years and I am actually surprised that we are still going strong :P We were five friends in school and our gang was called PINKSTERS. Out of the four of them, I was least close to Neha. I screamed and yelled at her most of the times. If someone told us then that we would be such close buddies ten years down the line, neither of us would have believed it. And the irony is that today I am only in touch with her. Our friendship has stood the test of time.

She has changed a lot over the years, and for the better. Today she is completely different from what she used to be then. But we have been friends during the good and the bad times. I have changed too, but whenever I am with her, I am myself. I effortlessly share my innermost feelings with her and she advises me for a change. I am proud to have a friend like her. Love you baby!

Pooja: She is an absolute sweetheart – one of my rare friends I have not had a fight or an argument with, ever. Knowing me, that’s quite an achievement! I met her in school (Class XI) and there has been no looking back since then. Moreover I am sure she is someone I will be in touch with even twenty years down the line. She is very sweet, caring, down-to-earth and dependable. It has been a smooth ride with her. We have countless memories from good old school days.

Some people say it is difficult for girls to sustain friendship after marriage. That’s absolutely incorrect. She has been married for more than two years but there has been no gap in our friendship and the credit goes to her. On the contrary I am closer to her now than ever before. The credit goes to her mostly as she knows how to maintain relations. I am extremely happy about the fact that she has found a soul mate in her life partner. They are truly a made for each other couple. Wish you all the very best in life honey!

Prachi: Intelligent, outgoing, straightforward, crazy, lazy and total fun – that’s Prachi Gupta for you. It’s a delight to have a friend like her. She has no hang-ups and is absolutely bindaas.

How come you and Prachi are such good pals? That’s the question I am confronted with these days. Our so-called friends raise an eyebrow when they hear that we are close buddies today. But who cares? And why, it is no one’s business actually. So just keep away. (Yeh prayaas tha un dikhawa karne wale doston ko sabak sikhane ka :P)

You rock girl. I am going to miss you bad and life will not be the same without you here. Anyway wish you a happy married life. Lotsa love!! Muah…

Moulshree: We do come across many people in our lives with whom we have an instant connection. We hit off right from the word go. The initial phase is incredibly good and everything seems right. However such relations are known to last for a short while. The charm soon fades. At least that’s how it has been with me.

But once in a lifetime we come across someone we click with immediately and things only get better with time. Moulshree is that person in my life. Met her in the first year of college and there has been no looking back. College was what it was because of her. She is someone I can spend an entire day with doing nothing and still not get bored. Her simplicity is her best virtue. In fact I can now go on to talk about the innumerable good qualities that she possesses and this post will run into pages. I'll write a separate entry on her but for now all I would say is that she is one of my best pals and am assured will always be.

I must have done a thousand good deeds in my past life to have her as a friend.

Nisha: “Best of friends don’t always make the best of roommates.” This is the first thing that strikes me when I think of her. We were roommates for two years in college and have seen all shades of life during that time. Misunderstandings are not uncommon, especially with people you share your room with but the manner in which we dealt with it was absolutely wrong. It was a love and hate relationship. We did have many unpleasant experiences but we also have several wonderful memories. It was just a phase and I am glad we survived. It takes true friendship to pass such tests and ours did.

Nisha is strong-minded, focused and knows what she wants from life. I respect her. Today we are not in regular touch, but that’s not important. I am glad our paths crossed and I had the pleasure of knowing her. She has taught me a lot. We have shared a lot - learning new words, discussing current news and happenings, hanging out together, watching movies, fighting and arguing about petty issues and above all being there for each other. I sure would love to interact more often and share a lot more with her. Guess I’ll take that step :)

Shilpa Sanghai: To be frank, there were 11 names on this list. I was surprised by this number as I had only expected about 8. But somehow it still did not seem complete. I knew someone was missing. I figured out after a while that it was her. And I was not astonished that her name had slipped out of my mind initially as I share an odd but wonderful relation with her. I know her since college; she was a year junior to me and we were in the same PG. I also know that she somewhat hated me in the beginning, courtesy my attitude :P Her opinion of course changed as she got to know the real me.

We have never been in regular touch, not while we were in the pg, not after college, not after that either, despite being in the same city [Strangely enough we have been talking almost daily lately, when she is in Delhi and I am back home, all thanks to Google Talk]. However there always is this comfort that she is there and I can fall back on her, anytime. We speak not more than three or four times a year (on the phone) but whenever we do, we always take off from where we had last left.

I don’t think I have ever told her how I feel about her as it has been a very casual relationship. But it’s true that her presence in my life makes a difference. I respect her for the person she is. I value her opinion and advice.

I know you will do well in life Shilps. Your willpower and perseverance is going to take you places. Lotsa love and good wishes.

Archana: Archana is someone I look up to. We are similar in temperament and perhaps that’s why she understands me so well. I value her advice and whenever there was a dilemma concerning work life, she was the first person I turned to. And she never let me down. I have great respect and faith in her.

Nicky: This is indeed difficult. There is a blog entry on her and I recently wrote a testimonial too. So this will be repeating things. But this list and the whole idea will not be complete if I don’t write about her.

I can write a lot about her, about us, and what she means to me, and yet not get anywhere close to explaining her importance in my life in words. I keep saying it time and again that she is my alter-ego. Of course we are different in many ways but the similarities overpower. She reads my mind, she understands my silence, she knows my various moods, she is aware of my faults - she just knows me inside out. She is a godsend. My life is incomplete without her and I can’t imagine not having her beside me. You know what you mean to me honey.

Amrita: Gentle – that’s how I would describe her in one word. She is soft-spoken and absolutely adorable. More than anything I am amazed at her patience. Not that she doesn’t get stressed or beleaguered, but it doesn’t show up in her demeanor. On the other hand, whenever I was upset or angry in the office, it showed on my face. Everyone could make out there was a problem and I made no efforts to hide it either, as I have always been a straightforward person. This girl sure has some resilience.

Amy was my bitching partner in office. We sat at an arms distance but conversed via chat most of the times. And what fun it was! So much so that it had become a kind of a habit. Sometimes it seemed like we were indulging in it just for the sake of it or maybe because our day would be incomplete without those sessions :P

Amy is a complete family person. Ask her to meet on a Sunday and she would instantly refuse as Sundays were meant to be at home. In fact she sometimes expressed her disapproval about me being in Delhi, away from home and family.

I admire her for all of this, basically for the person that she is.

Sanna: She is absolutely bindaas. I’ve known her for a short while but it has been a great experience. She has a charming personality and is liked by all. Hanging out with her is absolute fun. She is a no-nonsense, in your face kind of a person. Sometimes she can be very blunt but that’s better then maintaining double standards. In fact I respect her for being straightforward and clear. Then there is this other side to her too – soft, caring and thoughtful. She is very dear to me and I am glad I know her. Love you darling and miss you – Barista, coffee, Big Chill; basically your company!

Joyeeta: There already in a dedicated blog entry on her and so there is nothing much to say but yes I am happy we met. Of all the people mentioned here I came across her last but it seems like it was predestined. Even though we were together only for a short while, we have infinite memories. That’s why whenever we talk, we are always stuck up with remember this and remember that :)

What a roller coaster ride it was! Just being with her was absolutely entertaining, no matter where we were – at work, at my place, watching movies, hanging out in CCD, shopping or any other place. It was just so entertaining. Here I must mention that we make perfect partners when it comes to watching movies. Movie watching had never been so much fun before and I am sure we will never find someone better. What I liked most about her company was that I was always myself and it came very naturally. I could say anything and do as my heart pleased and she would just be a part of it. She has left an everlasting impression and I really look forward to more fun times together, especially watching movies again. God I so miss it.

P.S. Two pictures are missing here. Will add them soon.

Sibling Bonding

A couple of days ago, my little kid brother Aayush came crying from school after his Maths exam (He is not a kid in the literal sense but he is the youngest, is extremely sweet and looks like a kid too. You would not be able to make out that he is appearing for his ISC exams). He had been practicing a lot for this particular exam and was disappointed at having missed out on some questions. Now that was the first time I had seen him cry, if you discount the childhood tears. In fact, just a few days back I distinctly remember asking him when he had last cried. He is the “apple of everyone’s eye”, liked by elders, peers and children alike. He has an amazing sense of humour and always has a smile on his face. So it was awfully upsetting to see him like that. Obviously seeing one’s sibling cry is not a joyous moment for anyone. But there was something else I realized that day.

I have been away from home for the most part of my life and have spent very little time with parents and brothers. Plus there is an age gap of 6-7 years between me and my brothers. So there is minimal sibling bonding and no deep connected thoughts. But that day I figured out that no matter how distant you appear to be on the surface level, deep within the attachment is always there. The love we have for our family is unconditional which doesn’t require any reassurance. Only, it might be difficult to express it. At least that’s how it is with me.

Some days ago, I was encouraging a friend to spend more time with his siblings. He is pursuing his Masters in US and had come to India on a vacation. We just happened to talk about sibling bonding and he had a similar story to share. He was closer to his brother who was a couple of years younger to him. “It is easy to connect with my brother but I am not very close with my sister. We're kind of distant...like I care for her, but don't spend enough time with her; I can’t express my feelings easily,” he said. Since there were just a couple of days left for him to go back I suggested that he take them both out for dinner and ensure that he pay special attention to his sister. He said I was more matured that I appeared to be.

It was so easy for me to understand his situation. And I did give him some advice as well. But when it comes to me, I am equally bad, worse maybe. We usually take our family for granted. It is so difficult for me to say “I love you” to mom even when I want to at times. Why is so difficult for us to express our love for our near and dear ones? One reason can be that I have mostly been on my own, away from home and family, more in the company of friends. So communicating my thoughts and emotions lucidly is surely an issue sometimes. Obviously it can’t come to me all of a sudden. But I have been trying to bridge the gap. And I am sure this will only get better with time.

Playing a game...Literally!

Playing the tag game. Must admit it felt a bit odd initially when I was tagged by my dear friend and asked to play the game. But it was rather amusing and feels good now. Was reminded of school and college days when such games were a common affair.

RULE #1 People who have been tagged must write their answers on their blogs and replace any question that they dislike with a new question formulated by themselves.

RULE #2 Tag 6 people to do this quiz and those who are tagged cannot refuse. These people must state who they were tagged by and cannot tag the person whom they were tagged by. Continue this game by sending it to other people.

1. If your lover betrayed you what would your reaction be?
F*** off! And it would be time to move on. There is anyway no point in holding on to anything / anyone if it doesn’t seem to be working. But cheating the person you ‘claim to’ love is an absolute NO!

2. If you could have one dream come true which one would it be?
For the past six years there has only been one wish and I earnestly wish it comes true. High time! I know it will.

3. Whose butt would you like to kick?
I don’t really care about what people do in their personal lives. But anyone who messes with me will not be spared.

4. What would you do with a billion dollars?
Let me have it and then I’ll tell you what I do with it.

5. Will you fall in love with your best friend?
Falling in love is not a matter of a choice. If it has to happen, it will happen. It can be anyone then – an acquaintance, a friend or a best friend.

6. Which is more blessed: loving someone or being loved by someone?
Love in itself is a beautiful feeling and so both have their own charm. But it’s a true blessing to be loved by the person you love :)

7. How long would you wait for someone you love?
If I love someone, it means he is worth loving in the first place. So such a person would definitely be worth the wait, no matter how long!

8. If the person you like is secretly attached, what would you do?
If it’s only a liking and not love, then it doesn’t matter if that person is ‘secretly attached.’ I can continue liking him!

9. If you could root for one social cause which one would it be?
Has to be underprivileged children. My heart goes out to see little angels living a life of dispossession.

10. What takes you down the fastest?
PMS! Hoila that reminds me I should post my ODE here :)

11. Where do you see yourself in 10 years' time?
Spare me this clichéd question please!

12. What's your fear?
There are quite a many but most of them are transitory and hence not overpowering. However THE one fear that I think I won’t ever, ever be able to overcome is – Rats! They are creepy and I am shit scared of them!

13. What kind of person(s) do you think the person who tagged you is/are?
She is my alter-ego in many ways. She’s been waiting for me to vent out my deepest feelings, desires, complaints, fears since a long time and no doubt I was the first person to be tagged. I don’t really believe in such games but it’s only for her that I am doing this.

14. Would you rather be single and rich or married and poor?
Married to a person I would love to spend every single minute of my life with. Rich or poor, it actually would not matter then. Seriously ;)

15. What is the first thing you do when you wake up?
Earlier I always woke up late and so had no time to do anything but rush to work. But since the time I am home, I wake up and tell mom “5 minutes MA” and go off the sleep again. And believe you me, the sleep that you get in these 5 minutes is a total bliss!

16. If you fall in love with two people simultaneously who would you pick?
It sure is a big deal for me to fall in love with someone. And you’re talking about two people here. You kidding me! No, but on a serious note, I know that if and when I am in love, I will be totally in for the relationship and so don’t see myself falling for someone else.

17. Would you give all in a relationship?
Well yes, entirely. I do not like to formalities, especially when it comes to relationships, be it any. So if I am fond of someone I will go out of my way for that person. Else I really don’t care.

18. What's eating you now?
What if I am not able to meet my parents (especially Dad’s) desire of getting through a good B-school! They have their expectations and so I am really anxious!

19. Do you prefer being single or in a relationship?
Is this a question of preference?

20. Tag 6 people...
Alas! 6 is too big a number. I have only recently started blogging. However tagging a couple of friends who I hope will play along :)
**Myraidmusings
**Tripti

Tag completed :)