Are Indian educational institutions world class?
A few days back I had a engrossed discussion with my friend regarding whether Indian institutions are world class or not. There were many aspects to this and although either one of did not agree on each other arguments I found the discussion very insightful since it provided many alternative perspectives on how to look at things. Some of the points which were in my mind were -
1. There are many Indians going to top B Schools or top Tech Schools across the globe and making it big. How many people coming from the world to India for such programs?
2. Due to my interaction with one of the administrative staff at one of the top B schools of the US I came to know that they are looking for partner schools in India and China. But upon self introspection I thought what options would they have? How mature are Indian B Schools in order to establish such partnerships and provide a conducive environment to students coming from abroad. Only ISB and IIM A/B/C? If IIMs, I am sceptical about how would the collaboration work? Apart from the intellectual potential (which is also a big question now after reservations) and an "Indian" setup what else would these institutes would? IIMs have been there since long but why have they not been able to make it to the top B schools list despite having the best and the smartest brains of India? I think it is the bureaucracy, reservations, curriculum though best in India but it still needs to be more flexible and experiential learning needs to be encouraged more. This said I would love to highlight that guys please don't treat me as a mere critic of the best schools of India. IIMs are excellent institutes and just for record, I was not given an admission into any of the IIMs despite my efforts but even today I would perhaps take pride being an alum from anyone of these institutes.
Saturday, December 09, 2006
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Busiest days of my Life...
Can somebody be so busy that he doesn't have time to visit his blog to pen down a few lines? Can somebody be so busy that he doesn't have time for leisure? Can somebody be so busy that he doesn't have time to call up his friends? Some might say 'No', being busy is just an excuse. Probably I would have said so a few months back, but last few months have changed my mind. I had heard that the application process is taxing but it would be so taxing I could not have imagined. Life after office was spent on the laptop, thinking, writing, again thinking, rewriting, researching the options available, school strengths, would I be a good fit, why this school, why MBA and why now. My god! I can go on and on but still it won't be reflective of the effort that goes in completing one successful application. Even when everything is ready there are just so many things to look for. Following up with your reccomendors, arranging transcripts....
To top it all, I planned my India vacation right in the middle of this process. People might say - 'Dude, Bad Timing!' But to me going to India was inevitable. There were reasons beyond my control, I also needed a break from my mundane routine. I just thought it might be an opportunity to revive myself, get some new ideas. So, I did not hesitate and planned my trip. Even in India, time was gone for applications. In fact, I submitted two of my application from home. Can you beat that now!!
So guys, if I was not able to visit my blog it was not due to laziness but due to reasons beyond anybody's control...I can just pray to god now that my efforts do not go down the drain now...
Can somebody be so busy that he doesn't have time to visit his blog to pen down a few lines? Can somebody be so busy that he doesn't have time for leisure? Can somebody be so busy that he doesn't have time to call up his friends? Some might say 'No', being busy is just an excuse. Probably I would have said so a few months back, but last few months have changed my mind. I had heard that the application process is taxing but it would be so taxing I could not have imagined. Life after office was spent on the laptop, thinking, writing, again thinking, rewriting, researching the options available, school strengths, would I be a good fit, why this school, why MBA and why now. My god! I can go on and on but still it won't be reflective of the effort that goes in completing one successful application. Even when everything is ready there are just so many things to look for. Following up with your reccomendors, arranging transcripts....
To top it all, I planned my India vacation right in the middle of this process. People might say - 'Dude, Bad Timing!' But to me going to India was inevitable. There were reasons beyond my control, I also needed a break from my mundane routine. I just thought it might be an opportunity to revive myself, get some new ideas. So, I did not hesitate and planned my trip. Even in India, time was gone for applications. In fact, I submitted two of my application from home. Can you beat that now!!
So guys, if I was not able to visit my blog it was not due to laziness but due to reasons beyond anybody's control...I can just pray to god now that my efforts do not go down the drain now...
Saturday, December 02, 2006
Night out in Delhi.
As promised this is one of my post in the India series. Isn't that funny, I am mentioning 'as promised' as if many people read my posts. I am not saying they don't want to but just that probably they don't know about it. Anyhow, the night I am going to talk about is Friday, Nov 3' 2006. I had to leave for Ahmadabad to meet my sis, jeeju and niece on 4th Nov early morning. So I decided to have a night out with my friends on the 3rd since that was the only weekend I would have in Delhi. I wished I could have freaked out on a Saturday as well but then that's the trade off when you have other things to do and commitments to meet. So, a night out was the best I could think of. We decided to meet up in CP. Virinchi picked me up from my home and we went straight to his home. I kept my bag at his home, ate some sweets, drank some wonderful filter (south Indian style) coffee and there we were off to CP. We waited for Manish and while we were waiting we decided to just stroll in CP. It was nice to do some window shopping but finally after some time we decided to go to our meeting place. I think it was Cafe 21. It was I would say not a pub, not a bar, not a restaurant, I don't know what it was, but it was a place to get together. Soon (or rather I should say late) Manish made a dashing entry into the cafe. We ordered some drinks. It was nice to see Virinchi drinking. Dude, it would have been wonderful if you could have realized the benefits of drinking during college ;-)
Finally, after some grub and a sober start we decided to move to South Delhi. I had a venue in my mind - Cafe Morrisson. I had heard about it when I was in the US and on reading the reviews I wanted to experience that place and see the rock culture in Delhi. So, we somehow managed to find that place even without any address!! Well, on entering the place I would say that the ambiance was good but the crowd was pretty average. But, whatever crowd was there it rocked. I still remember the lady in the white suit who was dancing like there is no tomorrow. What say Manish? The girl sitting next to us who I suppose had just come to a hang out place without the slightest knowledge of rock music. And Virinchi, who was your girl for the night? Lol. The music played was classic rock with a blend of some contemporary rock like System of a Down. All in all the quality of music was good. Drinks - pricey. I was shocked to pay 1700 Rs for 2.5 pegs of Red Label. Man! I could have bought a bottle in a little more than that amount here. Finally, at around 2 AM the pub closed down, the music came to a stop with the last song played which was by request of the junta there (not me..hehe) was 'Rape Me'. I don't know was there a double meaning attached to that request ;-)
So, at 2 AM we were out of the club. Now what to do? I still had a few hours with me and was in no mood to go back home and sleep for 2 hours and then again wake up to go to the airport. So, we went back to CP and picked up our bike from there. Now we had one bike and 3 ppl (I forgot to mention earlier that we went to South Delhi in an auto). But our spirits were high and we took the risk. We headed straight to the coffee shop - Le Meridian Hotel, Delhi. On a bike with 3 ppl and stopped at the gate of a 5 star. I think the gate keeper must have thought that we were there for some loot or something :-) We parked the bike in the basement and went into the coffee shop. Ordered some fries and coffee and just passed our time gossipping.
Finally, we went back to Virinchi's house, I picked up my bag, Manish decided to sleep there (with a commitment of opening the door once Veeru is back from the airport, but I think he overslept). Veeru and me headed to the airport. It was cold and isolated but I enjoyed the bike ride after 1.5 years....
That was a night to remember... I think for all three of us. ..Isn't it?
As promised this is one of my post in the India series. Isn't that funny, I am mentioning 'as promised' as if many people read my posts. I am not saying they don't want to but just that probably they don't know about it. Anyhow, the night I am going to talk about is Friday, Nov 3' 2006. I had to leave for Ahmadabad to meet my sis, jeeju and niece on 4th Nov early morning. So I decided to have a night out with my friends on the 3rd since that was the only weekend I would have in Delhi. I wished I could have freaked out on a Saturday as well but then that's the trade off when you have other things to do and commitments to meet. So, a night out was the best I could think of. We decided to meet up in CP. Virinchi picked me up from my home and we went straight to his home. I kept my bag at his home, ate some sweets, drank some wonderful filter (south Indian style) coffee and there we were off to CP. We waited for Manish and while we were waiting we decided to just stroll in CP. It was nice to do some window shopping but finally after some time we decided to go to our meeting place. I think it was Cafe 21. It was I would say not a pub, not a bar, not a restaurant, I don't know what it was, but it was a place to get together. Soon (or rather I should say late) Manish made a dashing entry into the cafe. We ordered some drinks. It was nice to see Virinchi drinking. Dude, it would have been wonderful if you could have realized the benefits of drinking during college ;-)
Finally, after some grub and a sober start we decided to move to South Delhi. I had a venue in my mind - Cafe Morrisson. I had heard about it when I was in the US and on reading the reviews I wanted to experience that place and see the rock culture in Delhi. So, we somehow managed to find that place even without any address!! Well, on entering the place I would say that the ambiance was good but the crowd was pretty average. But, whatever crowd was there it rocked. I still remember the lady in the white suit who was dancing like there is no tomorrow. What say Manish? The girl sitting next to us who I suppose had just come to a hang out place without the slightest knowledge of rock music. And Virinchi, who was your girl for the night? Lol. The music played was classic rock with a blend of some contemporary rock like System of a Down. All in all the quality of music was good. Drinks - pricey. I was shocked to pay 1700 Rs for 2.5 pegs of Red Label. Man! I could have bought a bottle in a little more than that amount here. Finally, at around 2 AM the pub closed down, the music came to a stop with the last song played which was by request of the junta there (not me..hehe) was 'Rape Me'. I don't know was there a double meaning attached to that request ;-)
So, at 2 AM we were out of the club. Now what to do? I still had a few hours with me and was in no mood to go back home and sleep for 2 hours and then again wake up to go to the airport. So, we went back to CP and picked up our bike from there. Now we had one bike and 3 ppl (I forgot to mention earlier that we went to South Delhi in an auto). But our spirits were high and we took the risk. We headed straight to the coffee shop - Le Meridian Hotel, Delhi. On a bike with 3 ppl and stopped at the gate of a 5 star. I think the gate keeper must have thought that we were there for some loot or something :-) We parked the bike in the basement and went into the coffee shop. Ordered some fries and coffee and just passed our time gossipping.
Finally, we went back to Virinchi's house, I picked up my bag, Manish decided to sleep there (with a commitment of opening the door once Veeru is back from the airport, but I think he overslept). Veeru and me headed to the airport. It was cold and isolated but I enjoyed the bike ride after 1.5 years....
That was a night to remember... I think for all three of us. ..Isn't it?
A trip down the memory lane....
It happened in a jiffy. I vacillated in indecision of whether to go right now or not for some time but then I always follow this mantra given to me by dad - 'Never vacillate in indecision..make a decision and then deal with it.' Then, circumstances were such that it was not at all wise to delay the homecoming or rather I should say home going. So, there I started planning the trip. First Step was of course get the leave sanctioned from the client. This was not a hard task since the time I was going was a slack period and client would have happily given me the leave and so he did.
Next came the tickets, shopping, requests for bringing in stuff, phone calls and mails to friends in India to make plans....to cut things short I would fast forward these details. So, the D Day finally arrived - Oct 27. Boarded the flight to Chicago which was late by 3 hours. Luckily I had enough buffer with me for my international Air India flight. But still I did not took any chances and seeded up everything from my side at the O'Hare Airport, Chicago. Finally, I boarded the flight that would take me to home....after 2 years! I sat with mixed feelings in the plane..guilt of not visiting home for so long, happiness that finally I would meet my friends and family, anticipation (of a break and vacation) and tension of the road ahead. The flight was via London and the US-UK connection was fairly good with lesser people on board. So, there was enough room to stretch your legs and I would say that the journey was comfortable. In UK, I was surprised when we were asked to move out of the plane since I thought it to be a technical stop. But, then I thought that I would get a chance to see the Heathrow Airport, London. I had heard a lot about it...Finally we again boarded the plane which was packed from UK to India. I reached India 1 hour late which was amazing considering the standards of Air India.
After immigrations and customs I came out of the airport and I could see my parents waiting. Man! What a feeling that was. I still remember the gleaming faces of my parents. How can I forget that? It was 2 AM at night and they were there to pick me up. We reached home and were awake till 5 AM. Chatting, gossipping and it was just amazing to be back. Finally, I slept that day to wake up pretty soon and then the usual phone calls, meeting relatives, eating home food..it was a paradise.
Well, time just flew by. I met Virinchi, a couple of times (or rather more than that :-) and also met Manish. Couldn't forget that night as well. When we just roamed on Delhi streets like never before. I think it needs another post. So I will talk about it in the next post. There were get togethers with relatives and I gave them a party at Chor Bizzare. Another remarkable feature about this trip was the good news that started to pour in while I was in Noida. This was the news of the interviews. In fact I submitted my CMU application from home and within hours I got the interview request!
Noida has changed, so has Delhi and so has India. I could see many flyovers in Delhi. New Malls and some of them impressive! Traffic condition has grown from bad to worse and I did not got behind the wheels during my stay. Although I did drive the two wheeler around. The crowd this time was I would say disappointing or is it that my standards have changed? I don't know the answer.
Well, there are so many things to talk about..my Ahmadabad trip for example. I think I can not capture my India sojourn in a single post. So I would try to include many more posts on this just to make sure I do justice to every little thing that gave me happiness during the time I was at home...
It happened in a jiffy. I vacillated in indecision of whether to go right now or not for some time but then I always follow this mantra given to me by dad - 'Never vacillate in indecision..make a decision and then deal with it.' Then, circumstances were such that it was not at all wise to delay the homecoming or rather I should say home going. So, there I started planning the trip. First Step was of course get the leave sanctioned from the client. This was not a hard task since the time I was going was a slack period and client would have happily given me the leave and so he did.
Next came the tickets, shopping, requests for bringing in stuff, phone calls and mails to friends in India to make plans....to cut things short I would fast forward these details. So, the D Day finally arrived - Oct 27. Boarded the flight to Chicago which was late by 3 hours. Luckily I had enough buffer with me for my international Air India flight. But still I did not took any chances and seeded up everything from my side at the O'Hare Airport, Chicago. Finally, I boarded the flight that would take me to home....after 2 years! I sat with mixed feelings in the plane..guilt of not visiting home for so long, happiness that finally I would meet my friends and family, anticipation (of a break and vacation) and tension of the road ahead. The flight was via London and the US-UK connection was fairly good with lesser people on board. So, there was enough room to stretch your legs and I would say that the journey was comfortable. In UK, I was surprised when we were asked to move out of the plane since I thought it to be a technical stop. But, then I thought that I would get a chance to see the Heathrow Airport, London. I had heard a lot about it...Finally we again boarded the plane which was packed from UK to India. I reached India 1 hour late which was amazing considering the standards of Air India.
After immigrations and customs I came out of the airport and I could see my parents waiting. Man! What a feeling that was. I still remember the gleaming faces of my parents. How can I forget that? It was 2 AM at night and they were there to pick me up. We reached home and were awake till 5 AM. Chatting, gossipping and it was just amazing to be back. Finally, I slept that day to wake up pretty soon and then the usual phone calls, meeting relatives, eating home food..it was a paradise.
Well, time just flew by. I met Virinchi, a couple of times (or rather more than that :-) and also met Manish. Couldn't forget that night as well. When we just roamed on Delhi streets like never before. I think it needs another post. So I will talk about it in the next post. There were get togethers with relatives and I gave them a party at Chor Bizzare. Another remarkable feature about this trip was the good news that started to pour in while I was in Noida. This was the news of the interviews. In fact I submitted my CMU application from home and within hours I got the interview request!
Noida has changed, so has Delhi and so has India. I could see many flyovers in Delhi. New Malls and some of them impressive! Traffic condition has grown from bad to worse and I did not got behind the wheels during my stay. Although I did drive the two wheeler around. The crowd this time was I would say disappointing or is it that my standards have changed? I don't know the answer.
Well, there are so many things to talk about..my Ahmadabad trip for example. I think I can not capture my India sojourn in a single post. So I would try to include many more posts on this just to make sure I do justice to every little thing that gave me happiness during the time I was at home...
A Lifetime Event - Roger Waters - Live in Concert - Dream Come True - I can't ask for more
The title of the blog says it all. Isn't it? No. Actually, there is nothing that can actually describe or even come close to how I felt after attending the concert. The concert was on Oct 3. Yes, I know I am late by around 2 months in writing about it. But don't blame me. The reason for me visiting my blog after so long would become evident in my next posts. Can somebody be so busy that he doesnt have time to pen down his greatest moments of life? Yes. One can be this busy and I realized this in the last 2 months. Well, not to digress from the topic here you go -
The tickets for this concert were booked long long ago in April I guess even when we didn't have the slightest of the idea whether we would be in the US during October or not. But nonetheless, we were ready to take this risk for Waters. Period.
Finally, days and months passed by and it was October. We started to discuss about the logistics. How to reach the veneue, which was in Cricket Pavillion in Phoenix, AZ around 35 miles from Scottsdale, the place I live. The problem was that we were pretty sure that we would be drunk and so we did not wanted to take the risk of driving under influence. Anyhow, we tried to work many permutations and combinations but unfortunately, nothing turned up well, or I would say one option even turned BAD on the last moment. But, no issues, when there is a will there is a way and we decided to go by our own car.
After drinking some beer, we finally left the house with 'High Hopes'. One of my friend who was in the party, was driving the car and in the midst of a heated discussion forgot to check the speedometer. Flash and there you go! A driving ticket. No problem - nothing could be done and so we continued our journey. When we were about to reach the venue, the beer started to take its toll..not that I was high but I wanted to pee...lol...but the traffic was just too much. Again, nothing could have been done. I somehow controlled but I still remember my agony. We finally stopped at a 'Jack in the Box', relieved ourselves, ate a burger and bang reached the venue.
The environment was amazing. Pink Floyd T Shirts everywhere, a good crowd, and anticipation of a having a good time. Our seats were at an amazing location and we could clearly see the stage. The stage was elaborate - this was not a surprise considering who was performing today. Finally, after some time...our wait came to an end.
Roger Waters..dressed in black...the messiah of Pink Floyd...a band I have spent not hours, not days, not months but years listening to...was there on the stage and man you can only imagine how it felt. I was in awe and so were others. We all cheered, and he started to play...one song after other...all songs fantastically well performed...I dont think he missed any of the good songs...in the background were being shown the videos, photos and other trivia of Pink Floyd. Photos of Syd Barret, of the band and glimpses from their albums while in the foreground was Roger Waters...performing live!! I couldn't have asked for more. The concert lasted for 3hours. The second half was mainly 'Dark Side of the Moon' and a few songs from the Wall including Comfortabely Numb and Another Brick in the Wall (Part 1,2,3)
As all good things must come to an end, so did this. I took the lead and drove us back safely to home. It was an event, the memories of which would remain with me forever.
The title of the blog says it all. Isn't it? No. Actually, there is nothing that can actually describe or even come close to how I felt after attending the concert. The concert was on Oct 3. Yes, I know I am late by around 2 months in writing about it. But don't blame me. The reason for me visiting my blog after so long would become evident in my next posts. Can somebody be so busy that he doesnt have time to pen down his greatest moments of life? Yes. One can be this busy and I realized this in the last 2 months. Well, not to digress from the topic here you go -
The tickets for this concert were booked long long ago in April I guess even when we didn't have the slightest of the idea whether we would be in the US during October or not. But nonetheless, we were ready to take this risk for Waters. Period.
Finally, days and months passed by and it was October. We started to discuss about the logistics. How to reach the veneue, which was in Cricket Pavillion in Phoenix, AZ around 35 miles from Scottsdale, the place I live. The problem was that we were pretty sure that we would be drunk and so we did not wanted to take the risk of driving under influence. Anyhow, we tried to work many permutations and combinations but unfortunately, nothing turned up well, or I would say one option even turned BAD on the last moment. But, no issues, when there is a will there is a way and we decided to go by our own car.
After drinking some beer, we finally left the house with 'High Hopes'. One of my friend who was in the party, was driving the car and in the midst of a heated discussion forgot to check the speedometer. Flash and there you go! A driving ticket. No problem - nothing could be done and so we continued our journey. When we were about to reach the venue, the beer started to take its toll..not that I was high but I wanted to pee...lol...but the traffic was just too much. Again, nothing could have been done. I somehow controlled but I still remember my agony. We finally stopped at a 'Jack in the Box', relieved ourselves, ate a burger and bang reached the venue.
The environment was amazing. Pink Floyd T Shirts everywhere, a good crowd, and anticipation of a having a good time. Our seats were at an amazing location and we could clearly see the stage. The stage was elaborate - this was not a surprise considering who was performing today. Finally, after some time...our wait came to an end.
Roger Waters..dressed in black...the messiah of Pink Floyd...a band I have spent not hours, not days, not months but years listening to...was there on the stage and man you can only imagine how it felt. I was in awe and so were others. We all cheered, and he started to play...one song after other...all songs fantastically well performed...I dont think he missed any of the good songs...in the background were being shown the videos, photos and other trivia of Pink Floyd. Photos of Syd Barret, of the band and glimpses from their albums while in the foreground was Roger Waters...performing live!! I couldn't have asked for more. The concert lasted for 3hours. The second half was mainly 'Dark Side of the Moon' and a few songs from the Wall including Comfortabely Numb and Another Brick in the Wall (Part 1,2,3)
As all good things must come to an end, so did this. I took the lead and drove us back safely to home. It was an event, the memories of which would remain with me forever.
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Whew! I am back..
It might have seemed that I have completely forgotten that I have a blog site but the reality is that my blog was always there in my mind, just that I never got a chance to visit it from the past approximately 40 days I believe. Well, the reason for not visiting the blog are plenty but the primary one was that the process of writing essays for various MBA applications itself was so gruelling and time consuming that after investing time for that, I had no energy left for writing a blog. So, right now I thought that if this continues I would perhaps have totally abandon my blog which I didn't wanted to. So, finally for today I gave my blog a higher priority that all the other pending tasks.
I might miss out on the details of the happenings in the past month but the most striking happening that occured was the my belief in the adage - 'Change is the only constant' further got strengthed. There were changes in the project, in the project team, circumstances led to some events which were not anticipated by anyone and which finally left a changed face of my project. I believe if someone close to me would be reading this, he or she would already be having the idea of what I am talking about.
The other major happening I can remember was my trip to the monument valley and Page. It is seriously a pity that I was unable to capture the memories of the trip as a separate blog entry. I would try to recollect as much as I could and try to include a separate blog for that since I feel that the place and the trip does deserve an independent entry and not just a mere mention in one of the blogs.
Another event I would like to pen down is on my professional growth front, with me getting promoted to a PA...
Rest life is as usual...very very busy and hectic with mutiple tasks always on my mind..would try to be more regular with the blog but I can not promise...
Adios for now...
It might have seemed that I have completely forgotten that I have a blog site but the reality is that my blog was always there in my mind, just that I never got a chance to visit it from the past approximately 40 days I believe. Well, the reason for not visiting the blog are plenty but the primary one was that the process of writing essays for various MBA applications itself was so gruelling and time consuming that after investing time for that, I had no energy left for writing a blog. So, right now I thought that if this continues I would perhaps have totally abandon my blog which I didn't wanted to. So, finally for today I gave my blog a higher priority that all the other pending tasks.
I might miss out on the details of the happenings in the past month but the most striking happening that occured was the my belief in the adage - 'Change is the only constant' further got strengthed. There were changes in the project, in the project team, circumstances led to some events which were not anticipated by anyone and which finally left a changed face of my project. I believe if someone close to me would be reading this, he or she would already be having the idea of what I am talking about.
The other major happening I can remember was my trip to the monument valley and Page. It is seriously a pity that I was unable to capture the memories of the trip as a separate blog entry. I would try to recollect as much as I could and try to include a separate blog for that since I feel that the place and the trip does deserve an independent entry and not just a mere mention in one of the blogs.
Another event I would like to pen down is on my professional growth front, with me getting promoted to a PA...
Rest life is as usual...very very busy and hectic with mutiple tasks always on my mind..would try to be more regular with the blog but I can not promise...
Adios for now...
Saturday, July 22, 2006
OZZFEST and SYSTEM OF A DOWN
I doubt whether I would be attending so many rock shows ever in my life again as I am doing them right now. The latest one was OZZFEST - the legendary rock fest pioneered by the legenedary Ozzy. There were many bands performing this time - Disturbed, System of a Down,Hatebreed, Lacuna Coil...Well on reaching the venue we were simply stunned. First of all such a big turnaround was something we didnt expect. And secondly, the crowd was simply stunning. Women in bikinis, topless women only in body paint, men without shirts, women with tatoos everywhere, body pierced to the max! It was something you can only imagine. Alocohol was flowing like water and there was smoke all around. One due to the cigarretes and what not that people were busy smoking and secondly due to the bornfires that people were creating burning whatever they could get hold of - trash, cups, their T-shirts - yes their own T-shirts. People were so high that they were tearing of their clothes and burning them. It seems that heavy metal brings out the animal within us!!
Well, the last band to perform was System of a Down. I had heard them eariler but was not a fan of theirs. But that day they simply amazed me. I was in awe after their performance. What a great band they are. They have so much variety in their music and are so talented!! I have been hooked on to SOAD ever since the show. It has been around 15 days and I am still hooked on to them. After Pink Floyd this is perhaps the second band to make such an impact on me...Iam dying to see another live performance of SOAD and I hope I would be able to catch up with them somewhere sometime....
I doubt whether I would be attending so many rock shows ever in my life again as I am doing them right now. The latest one was OZZFEST - the legendary rock fest pioneered by the legenedary Ozzy. There were many bands performing this time - Disturbed, System of a Down,Hatebreed, Lacuna Coil...Well on reaching the venue we were simply stunned. First of all such a big turnaround was something we didnt expect. And secondly, the crowd was simply stunning. Women in bikinis, topless women only in body paint, men without shirts, women with tatoos everywhere, body pierced to the max! It was something you can only imagine. Alocohol was flowing like water and there was smoke all around. One due to the cigarretes and what not that people were busy smoking and secondly due to the bornfires that people were creating burning whatever they could get hold of - trash, cups, their T-shirts - yes their own T-shirts. People were so high that they were tearing of their clothes and burning them. It seems that heavy metal brings out the animal within us!!
Well, the last band to perform was System of a Down. I had heard them eariler but was not a fan of theirs. But that day they simply amazed me. I was in awe after their performance. What a great band they are. They have so much variety in their music and are so talented!! I have been hooked on to SOAD ever since the show. It has been around 15 days and I am still hooked on to them. After Pink Floyd this is perhaps the second band to make such an impact on me...Iam dying to see another live performance of SOAD and I hope I would be able to catch up with them somewhere sometime....
I still remember that I BLOG!
It has been the longest gap...a gap of around a month since I last blogged. I don't know why but I just did not get a chance to visit my blog. What a irony it is, I sit almost 15 hours in front of a computer and still can not find out 5 mins to write something which matters to me. Well, there have been many happenings in the last month. There was a unscheduled and unplanned trip to Las Vegas, my third trip to this heaven. It was the 4th of July weekend and we didn't go anywhere on the weekend. Bored to the max, it just came to our minds that why not goto Vegas on Monday evening(after attending office) and return back on Tuesday night. No night stay involved...just sheer fun and gambling. And we did exactly as planned. All I can say is that this trip was simply awesome. There is something about this place that attracts me. The more I visit Vegas, the more I kinda like it. I lost some money in gambling (as always) but nonetheless it was money worth spent since I enjoyed every dollar spent on gambling. Gambling is something I do not indulge into for any returns, but I take it as a price for enjoyment. Just like you need to pay for your movie ticket or for any other activity, you pay for gambling...apart from this Vegas trip there have been other happenings...OzzFest,System of a Down, MBA applications, Temeratures in Arizona...watch out this space for more....
It has been the longest gap...a gap of around a month since I last blogged. I don't know why but I just did not get a chance to visit my blog. What a irony it is, I sit almost 15 hours in front of a computer and still can not find out 5 mins to write something which matters to me. Well, there have been many happenings in the last month. There was a unscheduled and unplanned trip to Las Vegas, my third trip to this heaven. It was the 4th of July weekend and we didn't go anywhere on the weekend. Bored to the max, it just came to our minds that why not goto Vegas on Monday evening(after attending office) and return back on Tuesday night. No night stay involved...just sheer fun and gambling. And we did exactly as planned. All I can say is that this trip was simply awesome. There is something about this place that attracts me. The more I visit Vegas, the more I kinda like it. I lost some money in gambling (as always) but nonetheless it was money worth spent since I enjoyed every dollar spent on gambling. Gambling is something I do not indulge into for any returns, but I take it as a price for enjoyment. Just like you need to pay for your movie ticket or for any other activity, you pay for gambling...apart from this Vegas trip there have been other happenings...OzzFest,System of a Down, MBA applications, Temeratures in Arizona...watch out this space for more....
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Life Moves On...
Life has been tough after the accident. Phone call, follow ups and search for a new car took most of the time. Apart from the time it took there was a constant worry at the back of the mind, and to this date the worry has not gone but has just become a little less since we now have a new car. A 1999 Hyundai Sonata. Buying this car was again exciting. We were getting a good deal, but there were certain things which sometimes made us doubt the authenticity of the person selling the car. But, finally we bought the car, got the title in our name and things were just fine. There was a goofup made at the MVD where this guy endorsed our names on the wrong title and got himself in big trouble. He called us regarding that the next day but I would better avoid the details of that right now. Rest, life has become hectic at work as well. World Cup is also on which takes aways the time on the weekends. I don't know which team is gonna win but the matches are good. There was some activity on the YFU front as well...had gone for a pool party last weekend and it was fun!
Thats is for now, hope to see you guys soon....
Life has been tough after the accident. Phone call, follow ups and search for a new car took most of the time. Apart from the time it took there was a constant worry at the back of the mind, and to this date the worry has not gone but has just become a little less since we now have a new car. A 1999 Hyundai Sonata. Buying this car was again exciting. We were getting a good deal, but there were certain things which sometimes made us doubt the authenticity of the person selling the car. But, finally we bought the car, got the title in our name and things were just fine. There was a goofup made at the MVD where this guy endorsed our names on the wrong title and got himself in big trouble. He called us regarding that the next day but I would better avoid the details of that right now. Rest, life has become hectic at work as well. World Cup is also on which takes aways the time on the weekends. I don't know which team is gonna win but the matches are good. There was some activity on the YFU front as well...had gone for a pool party last weekend and it was fun!
Thats is for now, hope to see you guys soon....
Saturday, June 03, 2006
The enchanting beauty of Yosemite!!
It was the memorial day weekend, the first long weekend of the summers. Sitting at home was of course not an option. I was exploring the options of where to go and there were a couple of places which were to be seen and could be seen. Chicago being one of the top choices. But somehow the plan for Chicago did not get materialized and then came in the obvious choice of driving down to Yosemite, CA. Yosemite is known for its scenic landscapes, its waterfalls, streams, lakes and the general aura of the place. The plan was that me and A would be driving down from Scottsdale to Fresno,CA where we would be joined by another friend (T). From there all three of us would drive down to Yosemite which was hardly 100 miles from Fresno. Everything went as per the plan and we were in Yosemite at around 1 AM. We stopped for a quick brunch at a gas station where we ate home cooked parathas and subzi which T had made..Thanks for the same T!! :-)
The first thing we saw after entering the National park were the big and tall magrove trees. There were centuries old trees, still standing large and tall. After a short trek, we headed towards the glacier point. However, the glacier point was closed for entry when we reached the intersection from where we had to take the road to the glaicer point. Nonetheless, we headed straight towards Yosemite village. On the way were a few scenic points where we stopped and treated our eyes. Those were the first glimpses of the beauty everyone talks about. A few more miles and we reached the Bridalveil falls. We parked our cars and went straight beneath the falls. I can only say that it was simply aweinspiring. After spending some time there we reached the yosemite village. From the village we bought something to eat, asked the details about the campsites from the visitor center and headed straight back in search of a campground. Unfortunately, memorial day weekend is the busiest weekend of the year and all the campgrounds were full. There were a few campgrounds outside the yosemite park and even they were full. But luckily we got one spot in a campground. However, there was some confusion and after pitching our tent a group came in and clarified that that spot was actually theirs and they were camping on someone else's campsite by mistake. However, it was already dark and it was not possible to search for another campsite then, so the only option left with all of us was to stay at that campsite only and thats what we did.
The next day we went to the Tioga road drive. The complete road was not opened yet due to snow but still there were some breathtaking views on the road and not to mention the huge amounts of snow that was present. Siesta lake was looking awesome coevered with snow and surrounded by trees. Finally, we headed back saw the mirror lake in the Yosemite village and then went to see the glacier point. The view of the yosemite valley from the glacier point is simply awesome. You can see the bridalveil fall, the yosemite fall and the half dome all at the same time. After spending some time at the glacier point we headed back to Fresno. Finally, as all goof things must come to an end so did our trip..T went to her place from Fresno by a bus and we headed back to Scottsdale. It was a long drive but it was enjoyable nonetheless.
It was the memorial day weekend, the first long weekend of the summers. Sitting at home was of course not an option. I was exploring the options of where to go and there were a couple of places which were to be seen and could be seen. Chicago being one of the top choices. But somehow the plan for Chicago did not get materialized and then came in the obvious choice of driving down to Yosemite, CA. Yosemite is known for its scenic landscapes, its waterfalls, streams, lakes and the general aura of the place. The plan was that me and A would be driving down from Scottsdale to Fresno,CA where we would be joined by another friend (T). From there all three of us would drive down to Yosemite which was hardly 100 miles from Fresno. Everything went as per the plan and we were in Yosemite at around 1 AM. We stopped for a quick brunch at a gas station where we ate home cooked parathas and subzi which T had made..Thanks for the same T!! :-)
The first thing we saw after entering the National park were the big and tall magrove trees. There were centuries old trees, still standing large and tall. After a short trek, we headed towards the glacier point. However, the glacier point was closed for entry when we reached the intersection from where we had to take the road to the glaicer point. Nonetheless, we headed straight towards Yosemite village. On the way were a few scenic points where we stopped and treated our eyes. Those were the first glimpses of the beauty everyone talks about. A few more miles and we reached the Bridalveil falls. We parked our cars and went straight beneath the falls. I can only say that it was simply aweinspiring. After spending some time there we reached the yosemite village. From the village we bought something to eat, asked the details about the campsites from the visitor center and headed straight back in search of a campground. Unfortunately, memorial day weekend is the busiest weekend of the year and all the campgrounds were full. There were a few campgrounds outside the yosemite park and even they were full. But luckily we got one spot in a campground. However, there was some confusion and after pitching our tent a group came in and clarified that that spot was actually theirs and they were camping on someone else's campsite by mistake. However, it was already dark and it was not possible to search for another campsite then, so the only option left with all of us was to stay at that campsite only and thats what we did.
The next day we went to the Tioga road drive. The complete road was not opened yet due to snow but still there were some breathtaking views on the road and not to mention the huge amounts of snow that was present. Siesta lake was looking awesome coevered with snow and surrounded by trees. Finally, we headed back saw the mirror lake in the Yosemite village and then went to see the glacier point. The view of the yosemite valley from the glacier point is simply awesome. You can see the bridalveil fall, the yosemite fall and the half dome all at the same time. After spending some time at the glacier point we headed back to Fresno. Finally, as all goof things must come to an end so did our trip..T went to her place from Fresno by a bus and we headed back to Scottsdale. It was a long drive but it was enjoyable nonetheless.
Thank god...we are safe!
I should have written this blog a few days back, but somehow things were so busy that I did not get a chance at all. The date was May 24 2006. The time was 1:45 PM. We were returning back to office from home after a home cooked meal after months. I was driving the car and there were 3 co passengers - S sitting besides me, H sitting behind me and A sitting on the rear passenger seat. There was something wrong that day since we were getting almost every stop light as RED or YELLOW. It now seem that those were mere warning signals of the impeding danger. The intersection of Shea and 92nd was no different. We were waiting for the stop light to turn green, it did and I hit the accelerator gently..to move the car southwardly on 92nd.
Well, perhaps that was the last time I (or for that matter anybody) hit the accelerator of my car..Ford Taurus...in a flash we were hit by a pickup truck that jumped the red light (at Shea) and slammed into us at 50MPH!! For an instant I just couldnt make out what happened ...our car spun around due to the impact and was facing in the opposite direction when it came to a halt. A who was sitting nearest to the point of impact suffered a consussion and couldn't remember what happened!! I was scared...but mustered strength..came out of the car...dialled 911 and withing minutes the emergency vehicles, including the police arrived on the spot. It took me a while to realize that ours was not the only car involved in the accident. There was a brand new Toyota Camry that was also hit by the same truck (it seems the truck driver lost control and hit the camry) and a Mercedes Benz, which I seriously have no idea of how it got involved.
The police started its investigations and it was a pretty clear case. All the witnessed re-iterated that the truck driver was at fault as he jumped the red light. The paramedics were looking after A who was taken to the hospital for some checkups. Finally, the police investigations were over, a tow truck arrived at the spot and towed the vehicles including ours which was totalled up. Information between the drivers was exhanged and the police took the truck driver in. Finally, after some time the news came in that A was doing fine and there was no cause of worry which gave us some relief. But the trauma of the accident would perhaps still linger on and not to mention the repeated followups with insurance, car rentals, searching and buying a new car and all the issues related to it would still haunt us even days after the accident. Well, in the end I can just say that it was a BAD day.
I should have written this blog a few days back, but somehow things were so busy that I did not get a chance at all. The date was May 24 2006. The time was 1:45 PM. We were returning back to office from home after a home cooked meal after months. I was driving the car and there were 3 co passengers - S sitting besides me, H sitting behind me and A sitting on the rear passenger seat. There was something wrong that day since we were getting almost every stop light as RED or YELLOW. It now seem that those were mere warning signals of the impeding danger. The intersection of Shea and 92nd was no different. We were waiting for the stop light to turn green, it did and I hit the accelerator gently..to move the car southwardly on 92nd.
Well, perhaps that was the last time I (or for that matter anybody) hit the accelerator of my car..Ford Taurus...in a flash we were hit by a pickup truck that jumped the red light (at Shea) and slammed into us at 50MPH!! For an instant I just couldnt make out what happened ...our car spun around due to the impact and was facing in the opposite direction when it came to a halt. A who was sitting nearest to the point of impact suffered a consussion and couldn't remember what happened!! I was scared...but mustered strength..came out of the car...dialled 911 and withing minutes the emergency vehicles, including the police arrived on the spot. It took me a while to realize that ours was not the only car involved in the accident. There was a brand new Toyota Camry that was also hit by the same truck (it seems the truck driver lost control and hit the camry) and a Mercedes Benz, which I seriously have no idea of how it got involved.
The police started its investigations and it was a pretty clear case. All the witnessed re-iterated that the truck driver was at fault as he jumped the red light. The paramedics were looking after A who was taken to the hospital for some checkups. Finally, the police investigations were over, a tow truck arrived at the spot and towed the vehicles including ours which was totalled up. Information between the drivers was exhanged and the police took the truck driver in. Finally, after some time the news came in that A was doing fine and there was no cause of worry which gave us some relief. But the trauma of the accident would perhaps still linger on and not to mention the repeated followups with insurance, car rentals, searching and buying a new car and all the issues related to it would still haunt us even days after the accident. Well, in the end I can just say that it was a BAD day.
Friday, May 19, 2006
Happenings @ ...
Well I think I am irregular in visiting my blog site. I am not doing proper justice to it but then I can't help it. I try my best but somwehow each day just passes by so quickly. I sometimes do not even have the time to collect my thoughts...penning them down would be too much of a stretch.
Past few days have been a roller coaster ride...and it has enforced the fact that "Change is the only constant". The change I am mentioning here is related to my work scene but I would not like to go into the details here since perhaps this is not the right place for discussing work!
The other happenings in my life since I last blogged have been..have been...man..I can't recollect any..it seems that there hasn't been any. Oh yes, did I mention about foosball earlier? I think NO. So, YES..foosball is the latest in my life and you know what...a combination of tennis and foosball has already sprained my wrist. Well, I am trying my best to bring it back to normal so that I can again hit the tennis court...
Right now I am off to the airport to drop a friend..he is all set for a NYC vacation...so see you guys later!
Well I think I am irregular in visiting my blog site. I am not doing proper justice to it but then I can't help it. I try my best but somwehow each day just passes by so quickly. I sometimes do not even have the time to collect my thoughts...penning them down would be too much of a stretch.
Past few days have been a roller coaster ride...and it has enforced the fact that "Change is the only constant". The change I am mentioning here is related to my work scene but I would not like to go into the details here since perhaps this is not the right place for discussing work!
The other happenings in my life since I last blogged have been..have been...man..I can't recollect any..it seems that there hasn't been any. Oh yes, did I mention about foosball earlier? I think NO. So, YES..foosball is the latest in my life and you know what...a combination of tennis and foosball has already sprained my wrist. Well, I am trying my best to bring it back to normal so that I can again hit the tennis court...
Right now I am off to the airport to drop a friend..he is all set for a NYC vacation...so see you guys later!
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Joe Satriani...
It is no doubt a rocking season. I had never imagined that I would actually attend so many concerts in such a short time. This time it was the 'God of Guitar'...the master...Joe Satriani performing live in the Celebrity Theatre, Phoenix. I along with two other friends were all set to attend the concert. Just before leaving took 3 Tequila shots and prepared a small bottle of Margarita. Luckily one of my friends who was going does not drink and so he drove us down to the theatre. The concert started with the performance by the great Eric Jhonson. He played a few songs but then I would say he was totally overshadowed by Satriani.
Joe Sat was dressed in his favourite attire - black Tees, black jeans and black sun glasses. He started off with two of his best songs ever - "Flying in a Blue Dream' (my personal favourite) and 'Extremist'. Man, I was in heaven and so was everyone present there. It was a real treat to see him perform. He simple amazes you with the variety he has and the talent he has. Simply impeccable. Continuous play of close to 3 hours without perhaps not missing even a single popular song. It was a concert to be remembered.
Finally, went to the downtown to grab a bite after the concert. It seems that it has become sort of a protocol to go to Hooters after the concert :-) Filled our empty stomachs with burgers and cam back. It been 2 days since the concert but I have not stopped listening to Joe Sat. That's the kind of effect he has made!!
It is no doubt a rocking season. I had never imagined that I would actually attend so many concerts in such a short time. This time it was the 'God of Guitar'...the master...Joe Satriani performing live in the Celebrity Theatre, Phoenix. I along with two other friends were all set to attend the concert. Just before leaving took 3 Tequila shots and prepared a small bottle of Margarita. Luckily one of my friends who was going does not drink and so he drove us down to the theatre. The concert started with the performance by the great Eric Jhonson. He played a few songs but then I would say he was totally overshadowed by Satriani.
Joe Sat was dressed in his favourite attire - black Tees, black jeans and black sun glasses. He started off with two of his best songs ever - "Flying in a Blue Dream' (my personal favourite) and 'Extremist'. Man, I was in heaven and so was everyone present there. It was a real treat to see him perform. He simple amazes you with the variety he has and the talent he has. Simply impeccable. Continuous play of close to 3 hours without perhaps not missing even a single popular song. It was a concert to be remembered.
Finally, went to the downtown to grab a bite after the concert. It seems that it has become sort of a protocol to go to Hooters after the concert :-) Filled our empty stomachs with burgers and cam back. It been 2 days since the concert but I have not stopped listening to Joe Sat. That's the kind of effect he has made!!
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Birthday Celebrations...
It was my 24th birthday and the first one outside my country. This birthday was no doubt happening since it lasted for not just one day but for 2 days. I got wishes all round the clock for two continous days - some as per Indian time and others as per the US time(s). Also, thanks to orkut the number of wishes I got this year far exceeded the count of the wishes I used to get earlier. Well, I would say this birthday was more of a affair to reunite and reignite links with your friends who were not in such a good touch due to reasons unknown :-) But yes I definitely missed the precence of my family, my parents, my sisters, my college friends in India.I missed them all. It would have been great if somehow I could get a chance to meet them, but then I know that was just not possible that day.
How can I not mention the sweet pain - I got my share of bumps and cake at midnight. Thanks to my friends over here who miss no oppurtunity to strike a poor soul on his birthday(well that includes me as well). But it is fun. Not the bumps part but the feeling that its your day and there are people there to celebrate with you. The day passed by in the office as usual although the phone kept ringing every now and then. Finally, it was party time...went to a desi resturant in the downtown. Do not ask me how much I had to shell out:-) All in all it was a enjoyable and a different day and its again a long wait of 365 days for this day to come again to brighten my life and soul.
It was my 24th birthday and the first one outside my country. This birthday was no doubt happening since it lasted for not just one day but for 2 days. I got wishes all round the clock for two continous days - some as per Indian time and others as per the US time(s). Also, thanks to orkut the number of wishes I got this year far exceeded the count of the wishes I used to get earlier. Well, I would say this birthday was more of a affair to reunite and reignite links with your friends who were not in such a good touch due to reasons unknown :-) But yes I definitely missed the precence of my family, my parents, my sisters, my college friends in India.I missed them all. It would have been great if somehow I could get a chance to meet them, but then I know that was just not possible that day.
How can I not mention the sweet pain - I got my share of bumps and cake at midnight. Thanks to my friends over here who miss no oppurtunity to strike a poor soul on his birthday(well that includes me as well). But it is fun. Not the bumps part but the feeling that its your day and there are people there to celebrate with you. The day passed by in the office as usual although the phone kept ringing every now and then. Finally, it was party time...went to a desi resturant in the downtown. Do not ask me how much I had to shell out:-) All in all it was a enjoyable and a different day and its again a long wait of 365 days for this day to come again to brighten my life and soul.
Camping @ Sedona
Last weekend I went for camping with mt friends to a place called Sedona which is around 150 miles from Scottsdale. It was the easter weekend and we did not find any vacancy in the regular camp grounds via the internet. We though we might just get a place if we reach there a little early and with this hopw we decided to leave a little early on Saturday. However, historical evidence is against us that we can leave early! And this time too, it proved the same. We were running late and we reached late in Sedona. All regular camp grounds were full. Initially we though that our camping dreams might just go down the drain..but then we were there to camp. We had hired a SUV...Jeep Grand Cheroke not to sleep inside it!! So we thought what next...then somebody told us that just past Mile 391 there are many open camp grounds where you can put up the camp. Well, we dashed staright down the road to Mile 391....Bingo! We could see many campers there are getting set for the night.
We searched for a decent place to put up a camp. Finally we did find a good place but it was a little secluded from where others had put up their camps. Nonetheless we decided to stay there for the night. We put up the tent in hush hush and our camp site was ready within minutes. Strangely, a car came near our campsite and the driver simply parked the car. He never came out of the car nor did anything else. This made us a little scared and suscpicious but the tent had been set up and we were there to stay for the night.
Finally, when everything was ready it came to our mind that we do not have anything to eat. So, we went 12 miles down the road to Flagstaff, got a few Subs and a few other basic stuff for camping like a flashlight.
Finally, we went back to pur campsite. It was DARK..as DARK as you can imagine...it was hard to see a thing 10 ft away from you. Apart from being dark it was secluded...the car which I mentioned earlier was still there...for a instant we got a little perked up...was it safe to camp there? Did we chose the right place or should we have camped near the rest of the guys. Pretty soon our fears vanished and we started enjoying our born fire and beers. But then, the thrill was not yet over. Suddently we heard gun shots in the distance. We ignored them...a few more after some time...well well..there was something fishy?? What could it be...well we just thought someone was trying to scare away the wilderness. After gulping all the beers and food, we went inside the tent to sleep...
It was so cold inside and I think we didnt had much comforters...finally at 2 AM we all woke up and re-arranged ourselves so that we were more warm and comfortable...finally the night went past and we woke up to a brand new sunny morning...the mystery car was no more there...we all were fine...our SUV was fine....now while writing this blog I am recollecting...whoa what a adventure that was...a adventure I enjoyed and memories I would cherish forever...
Last weekend I went for camping with mt friends to a place called Sedona which is around 150 miles from Scottsdale. It was the easter weekend and we did not find any vacancy in the regular camp grounds via the internet. We though we might just get a place if we reach there a little early and with this hopw we decided to leave a little early on Saturday. However, historical evidence is against us that we can leave early! And this time too, it proved the same. We were running late and we reached late in Sedona. All regular camp grounds were full. Initially we though that our camping dreams might just go down the drain..but then we were there to camp. We had hired a SUV...Jeep Grand Cheroke not to sleep inside it!! So we thought what next...then somebody told us that just past Mile 391 there are many open camp grounds where you can put up the camp. Well, we dashed staright down the road to Mile 391....Bingo! We could see many campers there are getting set for the night.
We searched for a decent place to put up a camp. Finally we did find a good place but it was a little secluded from where others had put up their camps. Nonetheless we decided to stay there for the night. We put up the tent in hush hush and our camp site was ready within minutes. Strangely, a car came near our campsite and the driver simply parked the car. He never came out of the car nor did anything else. This made us a little scared and suscpicious but the tent had been set up and we were there to stay for the night.
Finally, when everything was ready it came to our mind that we do not have anything to eat. So, we went 12 miles down the road to Flagstaff, got a few Subs and a few other basic stuff for camping like a flashlight.
Finally, we went back to pur campsite. It was DARK..as DARK as you can imagine...it was hard to see a thing 10 ft away from you. Apart from being dark it was secluded...the car which I mentioned earlier was still there...for a instant we got a little perked up...was it safe to camp there? Did we chose the right place or should we have camped near the rest of the guys. Pretty soon our fears vanished and we started enjoying our born fire and beers. But then, the thrill was not yet over. Suddently we heard gun shots in the distance. We ignored them...a few more after some time...well well..there was something fishy?? What could it be...well we just thought someone was trying to scare away the wilderness. After gulping all the beers and food, we went inside the tent to sleep...
It was so cold inside and I think we didnt had much comforters...finally at 2 AM we all woke up and re-arranged ourselves so that we were more warm and comfortable...finally the night went past and we woke up to a brand new sunny morning...the mystery car was no more there...we all were fine...our SUV was fine....now while writing this blog I am recollecting...whoa what a adventure that was...a adventure I enjoyed and memories I would cherish forever...
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular...
I recently went for a Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular show. Well, anything remotely related to Floyd does make a entry into my Blogs and this was a full event...how can I miss not to describe the evening. We got the tickets on the very day of the show. Went to the Dodge Theatre in Phoenix where the show was supposed to be held well in time, as always. From our past experiences this time we were pretty well prepared for the show. Had taken a few vodka shots along with us, which we gulped down before the show. Vodka and Floyd make a deadly combination...which was again proved to be right that evening.
The show is supposed to be a laser show, with all the laser beams dancing around and in the background is played ORIGINAL FLOYD MUSIC. There were three screens which displayed videos and images. We were given 3D glasses for the evening which enanced the viewing experience. The show started right on time...it started off with "Dark Side of the Moon" songs....almost every song was played from the album which made the crowd including me and my friend simply awestruck.
After the break, the show concentrated on "THE WALL". This was again amazing, since Vodka had started to get us into the mood and the whole atmosphere was simply so Floydian that I felt like I was in heaven. Finally, all good things must come to an end and so did this spectacular.
In the end, I would say that I was already a die hard Floyd fan and after seeing this show I am even a bigger Floyd fan (well, if there is any scope for that already :-)
I recently went for a Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular show. Well, anything remotely related to Floyd does make a entry into my Blogs and this was a full event...how can I miss not to describe the evening. We got the tickets on the very day of the show. Went to the Dodge Theatre in Phoenix where the show was supposed to be held well in time, as always. From our past experiences this time we were pretty well prepared for the show. Had taken a few vodka shots along with us, which we gulped down before the show. Vodka and Floyd make a deadly combination...which was again proved to be right that evening.
The show is supposed to be a laser show, with all the laser beams dancing around and in the background is played ORIGINAL FLOYD MUSIC. There were three screens which displayed videos and images. We were given 3D glasses for the evening which enanced the viewing experience. The show started right on time...it started off with "Dark Side of the Moon" songs....almost every song was played from the album which made the crowd including me and my friend simply awestruck.
After the break, the show concentrated on "THE WALL". This was again amazing, since Vodka had started to get us into the mood and the whole atmosphere was simply so Floydian that I felt like I was in heaven. Finally, all good things must come to an end and so did this spectacular.
In the end, I would say that I was already a die hard Floyd fan and after seeing this show I am even a bigger Floyd fan (well, if there is any scope for that already :-)
Monday, April 10, 2006
Ice Skating...
(Please read the below blog first, since this one is a continuation of the same...lol)
So did I say it was a lovely Sunday morning...yes it was since it was a sunday morning that I saw after many weekends (I usuallly wake up in the afternoon on sundays). Was just comtemplating what to do, there came A with a brilliant idea of going for Ice Skating. There is a Ice Skating Arena just a few miles from our house. Although initially I was a bit reluctant to do that much of effort on a sunday..but guys know that its not at all hard to convince me. So, finally we were all set to go.
Reached the place on time and hired the skates...initiall on seeing the skates my first reaction was - "How am I going to stand straight after wearing those?". Well, it just took me a few minutes to actually experience that we can stand wearing it. So, finally we geared up and went into the arena. Initial 10 minutes I was just getting a hang of it. But then slowly I gained confidence (thanks to my little stint with roller skates!). And it was fun from there...although there was a lot of rush and there was a constant fear of banging into a child...still I feel I manged a decent job...being a little immodest here :-)
Ice skated for around 2 hours...clicked a few snaps...and then back home.
Well, that was the end of the weekend (almost)...had a few confrence calls with friends...yes a con call with friends!! Professional jargon everywhere..uh?
And this is how I am ending this weekend..writing my memories into this blog with a hope that a few years down the line when I read this..it should and I am confident that it would bring a smile back to my face!
(Please read the below blog first, since this one is a continuation of the same...lol)
So did I say it was a lovely Sunday morning...yes it was since it was a sunday morning that I saw after many weekends (I usuallly wake up in the afternoon on sundays). Was just comtemplating what to do, there came A with a brilliant idea of going for Ice Skating. There is a Ice Skating Arena just a few miles from our house. Although initially I was a bit reluctant to do that much of effort on a sunday..but guys know that its not at all hard to convince me. So, finally we were all set to go.
Reached the place on time and hired the skates...initiall on seeing the skates my first reaction was - "How am I going to stand straight after wearing those?". Well, it just took me a few minutes to actually experience that we can stand wearing it. So, finally we geared up and went into the arena. Initial 10 minutes I was just getting a hang of it. But then slowly I gained confidence (thanks to my little stint with roller skates!). And it was fun from there...although there was a lot of rush and there was a constant fear of banging into a child...still I feel I manged a decent job...being a little immodest here :-)
Ice skated for around 2 hours...clicked a few snaps...and then back home.
Well, that was the end of the weekend (almost)...had a few confrence calls with friends...yes a con call with friends!! Professional jargon everywhere..uh?
And this is how I am ending this weekend..writing my memories into this blog with a hope that a few years down the line when I read this..it should and I am confident that it would bring a smile back to my face!
Weekend...that was!
It seems as if I am blogging after a long gap. But on checking my previous post it looks like there has been a gap of just 10 days. Well, 10 days can be long from the standards of a few but its kind of fine for me. So, what to blog now? Well, this weekend was kind of happening. So why not write about the weekend activities I or in fact we (my gang) did.
Saturday, 9th April 2006 - The legendary Bob Dylan was performing live in Phoenix. We had bough the tickets months ago and were all set to rock. Finally, the D day came and we were there well before time. It was a nice break from the routine. Seeing 7000 people (90% were much older than me) enjoying to the tunes of Bob Dylan was itself an experience. Although I do not listen much to Bob Dylan but I do admire and appreciate his music and that was the reason I was there to see him perform live. Well finally the concert was over. Now what?
It was 11:30 PM and we were looking for some place to eat. Well, actually searching for Denny's we landed up at Hooters. Wow! was the first word that came when we entered the place. (For obvious reasons!) Finally, ate a sumptuous chicken sandwich there, ogled at the girls and returned back to home...just to wake up to a lovely sunday morning the next day....
To be continued in the next blog...
It seems as if I am blogging after a long gap. But on checking my previous post it looks like there has been a gap of just 10 days. Well, 10 days can be long from the standards of a few but its kind of fine for me. So, what to blog now? Well, this weekend was kind of happening. So why not write about the weekend activities I or in fact we (my gang) did.
Saturday, 9th April 2006 - The legendary Bob Dylan was performing live in Phoenix. We had bough the tickets months ago and were all set to rock. Finally, the D day came and we were there well before time. It was a nice break from the routine. Seeing 7000 people (90% were much older than me) enjoying to the tunes of Bob Dylan was itself an experience. Although I do not listen much to Bob Dylan but I do admire and appreciate his music and that was the reason I was there to see him perform live. Well finally the concert was over. Now what?
It was 11:30 PM and we were looking for some place to eat. Well, actually searching for Denny's we landed up at Hooters. Wow! was the first word that came when we entered the place. (For obvious reasons!) Finally, ate a sumptuous chicken sandwich there, ogled at the girls and returned back to home...just to wake up to a lovely sunday morning the next day....
To be continued in the next blog...
Thursday, March 30, 2006
A trip to San Francisco...
San Francisco is undoubetly one of the most beautiful cities of the US. The place has a exquisite charm none other than any other city in this country. In an instant you will feel as if you are in Italy (NorthBeach), the next instant in China(ChinaTown) and then just pass a tunnel and there you will be in the middle of numerous tall buildings characteristic of US (Union Square)...that's the kind of experience and diversity you can get in SFO. Apart from the ups and downs which you see on the roads there are many places in SFO to hang out. Golden Gate bridge is perhaps the most pouplar of all. Just stroll pas this brige to experience why it is so popular. Sit in the surrounding parks and you will get a re-juventating feeling. That's the charisma of this place. Once in SFO, one just can not miss Fisherman's Wharf and the Piers. Pier-39 where you can get seafood so delicious that you can just not stop getting amazed, Pier-41 from where you get the Ferry to "THE ROCK" or Alcataraz. This historical building of SFO is now a national monument. The audio tour picturesquely decribes the condition of the prisoners just a few years ago. Just a few miles away from SFO is Muir Woods where a small trek can take you right in the middle of a jungle, surrounded by 250 years old tall redwood trees. It is a sure treat for all the nature lovers. But yes, parking can be a problem so plan well and reach in time. On the way back from Muir Woods one should never miss the oppurtunity to stop by the town of Sausalito. This quaint town is so pretty that you just can't stop falling in love with it. In the background you get to see all the wonders of SFO - Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, Alcataraz and SFO downtown - all together at the same time!!
In case you have a couple of days in the bay area, I would recommend a visit to the Wine Country - Napa Valley. This is a heaven for Wine lovers and for non wine drinkers a place to taste some quality wines (a nice place to start ;-). There is a wine train which passes through the valley and is one of the good ways to see the complete valley. The other surrounding cities like San Jose also boast of some good hangout places. Santana Row in San Jose is one such place. Well, there are just so many things to explore in the bay area...I would say that I was able to mention not even half the places to see and things to do in bay area...the others - Monterey bay, Mystery Point, Presidio, Trams, Musuems, Geysers, Theme Parks etc. etc. (the list can go on!!) are few others places of interest...After visiting this beautiful place I can only say - if you get a chance to experience Bay Area...DO NOT MISS IT!!
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Snow in Scottsdale..
It was a cool saturday morning. 10'o clock and I was busy sleeping enjoying my extended weekend sleep. Woke up at 11 and checked my voicemail."Abe saale so raha hai...yaha Scottsdale me snowfall ho raha hai" ..were the words I heard. Snowfall in a desert!! At a place where temperatures soar to 120F in summers!! It was something I could not believe. It took a few moments to actually believe that I was out of my sleep and the voicemessage was for real... and I called back A (the caller)...who was busy clicking snaps of the snowfall then... I went out to our parking lot and could see the snow covered mountains...what a sight it was...no-one could have believed that we were in a desert...That gave us a reason to cheer that day, people thronged to the spot (where it had snowed the max) to click snaps and touch the snow...all happy and elated...some made snowmans and kept on their cars and drove around the town...Well sometimes small things can do wonders to your spirit...and this was certainly one of them....
It was a cool saturday morning. 10'o clock and I was busy sleeping enjoying my extended weekend sleep. Woke up at 11 and checked my voicemail."Abe saale so raha hai...yaha Scottsdale me snowfall ho raha hai" ..were the words I heard. Snowfall in a desert!! At a place where temperatures soar to 120F in summers!! It was something I could not believe. It took a few moments to actually believe that I was out of my sleep and the voicemessage was for real... and I called back A (the caller)...who was busy clicking snaps of the snowfall then... I went out to our parking lot and could see the snow covered mountains...what a sight it was...no-one could have believed that we were in a desert...That gave us a reason to cheer that day, people thronged to the spot (where it had snowed the max) to click snaps and touch the snow...all happy and elated...some made snowmans and kept on their cars and drove around the town...Well sometimes small things can do wonders to your spirit...and this was certainly one of them....
Monday, March 13, 2006
A personal e-mail....
Here is a extract of a mail I just wrote to one of my well wishers...some interesting bits of my mind gets reflected in here and hence here I post it....
Disclaimer : [Some portions of the mail have been removed.. :-)]
Well Phd is althogether a different ball game. A field which has got a commodity which is very rare in today's world and that is 'respect'. With whatever limited exposure I have, my view is that doing a doctorate is in real terms the actual pursuit of knowledge. Once you have this asset, the dividends would automatically follow..
[some personal stuff...]
There is a revolution coming in India. I have so many friends here who are all aiming high. Global B School, Global exposure, Global Networking...blah blah. Yesterday itself can you believe I talked to my friends (on google talk) - all spread acroos the globe - Singapore, UK, Germany, India and US! It was really amazing to catch people all at different locations...different time zones. All doing great work and all aiming higher! So that's the kind of impact I think globalization is having on us...We are no more a subdued lot, happy with whatever we get. I think we are coming ahead of everyone and trying to shape things. We fight and fight till we don't succeed....I believe its for good....
Well, just spoke a piece of my mind...hope did not bored you :-)
Regards.
Here is a extract of a mail I just wrote to one of my well wishers...some interesting bits of my mind gets reflected in here and hence here I post it....
Disclaimer : [Some portions of the mail have been removed.. :-)]
Well Phd is althogether a different ball game. A field which has got a commodity which is very rare in today's world and that is 'respect'. With whatever limited exposure I have, my view is that doing a doctorate is in real terms the actual pursuit of knowledge. Once you have this asset, the dividends would automatically follow..
[some personal stuff...]
There is a revolution coming in India. I have so many friends here who are all aiming high. Global B School, Global exposure, Global Networking...blah blah. Yesterday itself can you believe I talked to my friends (on google talk) - all spread acroos the globe - Singapore, UK, Germany, India and US! It was really amazing to catch people all at different locations...different time zones. All doing great work and all aiming higher! So that's the kind of impact I think globalization is having on us...We are no more a subdued lot, happy with whatever we get. I think we are coming ahead of everyone and trying to shape things. We fight and fight till we don't succeed....I believe its for good....
Well, just spoke a piece of my mind...hope did not bored you :-)
Regards.
Sunday, March 12, 2006
An evening with Dream Theater...
We reached the Dodge Theater (Phoenix) well in time... in fact much before time with the expectation that we would experience a rocking atmosphere before the concert...'An Evening with Dream Theater'. The show tickets had been booked a month in advance and we all waited and waited for the evening..which was finally there. Parked the car...had a free shot of an energy drink (don't remember the name!...of course we wouldn't have tried it if it was not free :-) and headed straight towards the entrance. It was a little disappointment to see the atmoshpehere as not one that we had expected. People were waiting in a queue to be let into the theatre. I would call that the atmosphere looked like the one that is present before a movie...people waiting to get inside the movie hall...The only confirmation that it was indeed a dream theater concert was people wearing all sorts of dream theater attire which I would say was amazing!
Soon the gates opened and we were let inside the hall. 10 mins wait and then the lights dimmed and moments later there was some sound from the speakers.... "Thud Thud..." you could make out...it was none other than Mike Portnoy on the drums!!
The crowd was on its feet all ready to welcome the band..the curtains were raised and there they were..."DREAM THEATER" - James LaBrie , John Myung, John Petrucci, Jordan Rudess and Mike Portnoy
They were celebrating 20 years of DT music and were on a world tour. Phoenix was the first performance in US.
It was a roller coaster ride from there...they played something from everything (some song from every album)...all in all the experience was great and an unforgettable one...
We reached the Dodge Theater (Phoenix) well in time... in fact much before time with the expectation that we would experience a rocking atmosphere before the concert...'An Evening with Dream Theater'. The show tickets had been booked a month in advance and we all waited and waited for the evening..which was finally there. Parked the car...had a free shot of an energy drink (don't remember the name!...of course we wouldn't have tried it if it was not free :-) and headed straight towards the entrance. It was a little disappointment to see the atmoshpehere as not one that we had expected. People were waiting in a queue to be let into the theatre. I would call that the atmosphere looked like the one that is present before a movie...people waiting to get inside the movie hall...The only confirmation that it was indeed a dream theater concert was people wearing all sorts of dream theater attire which I would say was amazing!
Soon the gates opened and we were let inside the hall. 10 mins wait and then the lights dimmed and moments later there was some sound from the speakers.... "Thud Thud..." you could make out...it was none other than Mike Portnoy on the drums!!
The crowd was on its feet all ready to welcome the band..the curtains were raised and there they were..."DREAM THEATER" - James LaBrie , John Myung, John Petrucci, Jordan Rudess and Mike Portnoy
They were celebrating 20 years of DT music and were on a world tour. Phoenix was the first performance in US.
It was a roller coaster ride from there...they played something from everything (some song from every album)...all in all the experience was great and an unforgettable one...
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it...
Well...that's my new mail signature. I read this line somewhere and actually got quite influenced by it. It is no doubt a beautiful sentence.
Our reaction to what happens in our lives leads us to base our decisions which would decide what happens next in our lives. Complicated...think again. Well, the reaction to a particular event in our life is very important. One must react to every event that is occuring in a balanced way. Think of the pros and cons and then decide what to do next. Jumping to conclusions or taking rash decisions would not do good. Patience is the key.
You do not have control of the 10% that has happened but eeacting to life events in a intelligent way would make the 90% of the life much better and more enjoyable....so guys....next time of something not so pleasant happens to you...just say - "Well, that's just 10% the 90% is still in my hands"
Well...that's my new mail signature. I read this line somewhere and actually got quite influenced by it. It is no doubt a beautiful sentence.
Our reaction to what happens in our lives leads us to base our decisions which would decide what happens next in our lives. Complicated...think again. Well, the reaction to a particular event in our life is very important. One must react to every event that is occuring in a balanced way. Think of the pros and cons and then decide what to do next. Jumping to conclusions or taking rash decisions would not do good. Patience is the key.
You do not have control of the 10% that has happened but eeacting to life events in a intelligent way would make the 90% of the life much better and more enjoyable....so guys....next time of something not so pleasant happens to you...just say - "Well, that's just 10% the 90% is still in my hands"
Sunday, February 26, 2006
Rang De Basanti
Well...initially just by hearing the name of the moview I thought it to be another variant of the innumerable number of movies that have been made on the legendary Bhagat Singh...then someone told me that it is a Aamir Khan's movie...it was this that made me go to the theatre to have a peek at the movie..
And man!! I have no regrets...I liked the movie a lot...the film maker has successfully potrayed the history with the current problems that out country face in a very hip manner...no doubt it is a thought provoking movie...It challenges the current status quo in our country and compellsthe current generation to THINK!!
All in all it was a great experience and a movie which should not be missed by any INDIAN!!
Well...initially just by hearing the name of the moview I thought it to be another variant of the innumerable number of movies that have been made on the legendary Bhagat Singh...then someone told me that it is a Aamir Khan's movie...it was this that made me go to the theatre to have a peek at the movie..
And man!! I have no regrets...I liked the movie a lot...the film maker has successfully potrayed the history with the current problems that out country face in a very hip manner...no doubt it is a thought provoking movie...It challenges the current status quo in our country and compellsthe current generation to THINK!!
All in all it was a great experience and a movie which should not be missed by any INDIAN!!
Thursday, February 23, 2006
The coolest one...Google...Google and Google...
Google.........undoubedtly the coolest! They never fail to surprise me, coming out with some of the snazziest things they keep coming up from time to time! I am so hooked onto the innumerable things they have...Search engine which can search whatever you can ever think of, Gmail which is changing the way people use email, orkut - it has helped me re-ignite the connections with so many of my lost friends, Google Earth - had made possible to le me see my home sitting miles away from it.....the list goes on and on...
There is something unique about whatever they launch. Everything is BIG and makes a statement. It seems this is now a part of the Google culture...I just hope they continue their journey towards excellence and keep throwing such amazing gifts to the WWW...
Google.........undoubedtly the coolest! They never fail to surprise me, coming out with some of the snazziest things they keep coming up from time to time! I am so hooked onto the innumerable things they have...Search engine which can search whatever you can ever think of, Gmail which is changing the way people use email, orkut - it has helped me re-ignite the connections with so many of my lost friends, Google Earth - had made possible to le me see my home sitting miles away from it.....the list goes on and on...
There is something unique about whatever they launch. Everything is BIG and makes a statement. It seems this is now a part of the Google culture...I just hope they continue their journey towards excellence and keep throwing such amazing gifts to the WWW...
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Tennis - well I never thought I would be playing this game so passionately..until just a few days back...I don't exactly remeber how it happened but it is now actually a part of my life over here. 2 hours of tennis everyday which sometimes extends even upto 4 hours takes most of my evening time here. Well, it is definitely a very good hobby and currently the only means of some phsical exercise for me :-)
Hope to continue this hobby for the coming times as well....lets hope for the best!!
Hope to continue this hobby for the coming times as well....lets hope for the best!!
I am writing a blog after quite some time....But as the saying goes...'Better Late than Never' so here I am back again...
It's a long weekend here and for a change I am at home...Relaxing...Chilling out...Listening to my favorite music...
It actually feels good to just relax at home for 3 days...I think it has got it's own charm...Just as the charm of seeing new places and exploring unkown territories...
You can actually take out time for yourself..introspect and cmplete pending tasks at your own pace...
It's a long weekend here and for a change I am at home...Relaxing...Chilling out...Listening to my favorite music...
It actually feels good to just relax at home for 3 days...I think it has got it's own charm...Just as the charm of seeing new places and exploring unkown territories...
You can actually take out time for yourself..introspect and cmplete pending tasks at your own pace...
Sunday, February 05, 2006
Pink Floyd
It's not just a rock band but it's a phenomenon...there is something about Pink Floys that is unique. Undoubtely one of the best bands in the history of music so far. I started listening to Pink Floyd when I was in school and totally got involved into it by the time I was in my 2nd year of college. I have listened to the same songs over and oover again and I beleive can listen to them forever....So here is a brief about "the" band
Members :
Syd Barrett(original name Roger Keith Barrett) born Jan. 6, 1946, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, Eng.
Roger Waters born Sept. 6, 1944, Great Bookham, Surrey
Nick Mason born Jan. 27, 1945, Birmingham, West Midlands
Richard ("Rick") Wright born July 28, 1945, London
David Gilmour born March 6, 1944, Cambridge
The band was formed in 1965 in UK. The band name comes from two bluesmen: Pink Anderson (1900-74) and Floyd Council (1911-76). The songs of the album which took the world by the storm - 'Dark Side of the Moon' have got one of the best music and lyrics. One of the top-selling rock groups in history, Pink Floyd was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996.
Members :
Syd Barrett(original name Roger Keith Barrett) born Jan. 6, 1946, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, Eng.
Roger Waters born Sept. 6, 1944, Great Bookham, Surrey
Nick Mason born Jan. 27, 1945, Birmingham, West Midlands
Richard ("Rick") Wright born July 28, 1945, London
David Gilmour born March 6, 1944, Cambridge
The band was formed in 1965 in UK. The band name comes from two bluesmen: Pink Anderson (1900-74) and Floyd Council (1911-76). The songs of the album which took the world by the storm - 'Dark Side of the Moon' have got one of the best music and lyrics. One of the top-selling rock groups in history, Pink Floyd was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996.
Saturday, February 04, 2006
My first blog
Life is tough and so I thought to create my own blog site...just to ease out things. Well, I am totally new to blogging and have not gone through many blog sites before. I don't know whether I would be able to maintain this religiously, but nonetheless here I publish my first blog...in an attempt to pen down my ideas, my views, my likes, my dislikes, my worries, my concerns, my memories and .....
My interests revolve around Rock Music, Travelling, Hiking and "The Internet"...so many of my writings would have a flavour of these interests inherently....hope to add on to this list as time progresses...
Sigining off for this time but this end is just the beginning....
My interests revolve around Rock Music, Travelling, Hiking and "The Internet"...so many of my writings would have a flavour of these interests inherently....hope to add on to this list as time progresses...
Sigining off for this time but this end is just the beginning....
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