What is it? Here is a quick snapshot of my nascent understanding. From my readings it is a combination of the following aspects:
0) pricing strategy should be in sync with your marketing strategy and not convey a message which undermines the entire marketing strategy
1) price products based on EVC (economic value to the consumer), never do cost-plus pricing and never indulge in price war
2) always have multiple price point offerings, different price for different segments
3) have the right price metric in place, sometimes bundle products (Mac value meals) or unbundle (airlines)
4) never do anything that gives consumers a hint of unfair pricing, behavioral responses hurt more than you imagine
5) always think about competitive actions never ignore competitive forces from the equation
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Pricing
Something about pricing has always interested me, to squeeze the maximum out of your end customer is a fascinating topic if you ask me. A marketeers ability to increase the perceived value of the product in the eye of the customer is critical to charge premium dollars. A good marketeer is one who can successfully shift the perceived value of the product in the eyes of customer to be equal to the objective value of the product.
Love pricing! Would love to help start-ups or SMBs come up with best pricing strategies
Love pricing! Would love to help start-ups or SMBs come up with best pricing strategies
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Friday, February 08, 2013
Good music comes in waves
Just when I had given up on the quality of music in the last couple of months, I heard Kai Po Che tracks. Just 3 of them and loved them to the core. This one is my current favorite "Meethi Boliyan". I love the word "Sobte"that comes in this song. "Sobte" in hindi means association and in this song means association with buddies for life. Time comes when you want to be with your real sobte of life.
Check this song here: Meethi Boliyan
Music Director: Amit Trivedi
Lyrics: Swanand Kirkire
Check this song here: Meethi Boliyan
Music Director: Amit Trivedi
Lyrics: Swanand Kirkire
Wednesday, February 06, 2013
Song in my head
Benny Dayal and Shalmali Kholgade nailed it on this one from Race-2. My favorite track these days. The best part is when Shalmali says the word "sharat".
Power of advice
I wish we could all be mature to not offer advice to people in misery or whom we judge are not doing so well. Sometimes a pat on the shoulder, a hug is all they need.
Friday, January 25, 2013
Songs that are more like worm-holes?
There are some songs that just take you to a different time.
4th year, 2001 2am or so, I walk into chinkos and play my favorite song of that era "sona nahin na sahin" from one 2 KA four on the jukebox for Rs 1/-. Yes, in full disclosure I loved Alka Yagnik's rendition and combine that with Udit Narayan's voice with Dholak prominently used in this song.
Not to forget the turmeric egg bhurji and 2 slices of toast for Rs 5/-, sometimes Sari would just walk in at 2:15am with Topi or Bharat or Bongi.
4th year, 2001 2am or so, I walk into chinkos and play my favorite song of that era "sona nahin na sahin" from one 2 KA four on the jukebox for Rs 1/-. Yes, in full disclosure I loved Alka Yagnik's rendition and combine that with Udit Narayan's voice with Dholak prominently used in this song.
Not to forget the turmeric egg bhurji and 2 slices of toast for Rs 5/-, sometimes Sari would just walk in at 2:15am with Topi or Bharat or Bongi.
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Monday, December 24, 2012
Aate de chiri
My grandmother (Late Sardarni Gyan Kaur Chadha) did something very unique everyday. She would knead atta (wheat) and then make very small bite sized food drops for sparrows. I grew up watching her do this everyday with extreme love and remember learning how to make those the food drops from her. She usually made a little bird (chiri) out of the dough for me and that was the first time I heard these words - "atte de chiri". Her birds knew her timing and this was perhaps the only time my grandmother spent doing something sitting all by herself.
Now my grandmother and I shared a special relationship. Probably a little more deeper compared to her other grandsons. So deep that she even tied me rakhi for two years because her dead brother came in her dream once to let her know that I was his reincarnation. She stopped tying me the rakhi after two years as she realized that does not made any sense but as a 10-12year old this left an indelible mark on my memory.
Another fun facet of my grandmother was that she took the credit of planting the guava tree in our front yard. Therefore, she always wanted me to give her the softest and guavas bitten by parrots to her. I used to own that tree as a kid and spend hours on it, so her demands were always sort of funny for me. Still, when I look back I wish I had given more of those soft guavas.
As I grew up, the pressures of life took a toll on me. I know it sounds crazy but life takes you away from the gentle touches of your grandparents. My grandmother always wanted to put oil in my hair and joyfully claimed that my mother does not know how to put oil. I probably got it done four or five from her but I remember one instance very clearly. Lying in our front yard on a manji (cot) with sun shining on a winter Sunday, her hands moving slowly in my hair and telling me stories from our Gurus. At that time, I felt she is so slow and I wanted my Mom's style of fast swift action. But now, my heart knows how much I yearn for that gentle selfless touch.
Now my grandmother and I shared a special relationship. Probably a little more deeper compared to her other grandsons. So deep that she even tied me rakhi for two years because her dead brother came in her dream once to let her know that I was his reincarnation. She stopped tying me the rakhi after two years as she realized that does not made any sense but as a 10-12year old this left an indelible mark on my memory.
Another fun facet of my grandmother was that she took the credit of planting the guava tree in our front yard. Therefore, she always wanted me to give her the softest and guavas bitten by parrots to her. I used to own that tree as a kid and spend hours on it, so her demands were always sort of funny for me. Still, when I look back I wish I had given more of those soft guavas.
As I grew up, the pressures of life took a toll on me. I know it sounds crazy but life takes you away from the gentle touches of your grandparents. My grandmother always wanted to put oil in my hair and joyfully claimed that my mother does not know how to put oil. I probably got it done four or five from her but I remember one instance very clearly. Lying in our front yard on a manji (cot) with sun shining on a winter Sunday, her hands moving slowly in my hair and telling me stories from our Gurus. At that time, I felt she is so slow and I wanted my Mom's style of fast swift action. But now, my heart knows how much I yearn for that gentle selfless touch.
Biquees Kaur
Recently stumbled upon this series Bilquees Kaur from HumTV. What an amazing series, great play-writing and acting. Highly recommended better than anything I have seen in recent times.
Friday, November 09, 2012
Bonus
Should one be happy to see their bonus or should one think how is their business relative to others. As much as I try to think about the latter, I think I belong to the former category. Happy and content this Diwali :)
Middle market private equity
So I got introduced to middle market private equity pretty late in the game. By game I mean my MBA at Haas. There are some things that immediately suck you in and learning about middle market PE play was one of them. In John Brennan of Silver Lake Sumeru words "The ability to add value via operational experience" is what differentiates them. There is something magical in those words...operational excellence is one of them. How exciting it is to look at a business closely and fix it. I am sure I am not alone who gets excited by all this but the real question is, who is going to bet on me?
Other conclusions were, when you evaluate a business understand what they call as their accounts receivables, revenue recognition methods and importance of using net sales vs gross sales. All this is music to me. What was even more interesting was that as a PE guy one should always question all the assumptions as you evaluate a business, something my previous boss at work always stressed tremendously.
Other conclusions were, when you evaluate a business understand what they call as their accounts receivables, revenue recognition methods and importance of using net sales vs gross sales. All this is music to me. What was even more interesting was that as a PE guy one should always question all the assumptions as you evaluate a business, something my previous boss at work always stressed tremendously.
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
feel good or really good?
A solid short movie, makes you wonder how many non-sikhs actually like these movies or believe in their message? Whatever the answer to my inconsequential question is, this movie created by Mr. Satdeep Singh is impactful.
Friday, August 31, 2012
dishaheen
zindagi guzar na jaaye dishaheen hoke
khoj hain uss pal ki jab mujhe bhi yeh pata chalein,
ki aakhir majra kya hain, talaash kya hain
khoj hain uss pal ki jab mujhe bhi yeh pata chalein,
ki aakhir majra kya hain, talaash kya hain
Thursday, September 22, 2011
birthday blues
Today was my first birthday when I did not hear from my papa. He did not wish me today but I guess he is around. Here is a pic from when I was 2 year old, that is Papa feeding me cake.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Chase student loans
Avoid chase student loans like plague. Used to be a happy customer but their pathetic customer service pissed me off so badly that I cancelled my credit card with them as well. You take your customer for granted and the customer hits back! Enjoy that chase, no wonder you are giving away $150 in cash to have new customers.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Zindagi Na Mile Dobara
Decent movie, recommended. Quoting some lines from the movie, I never thought I will quote Javed Akhtar. These were the lines when Farhan Akhtar is going through his inflection point.
Jab jab dard ka baadal chaya
Jab ghum ka saya lehraya
Jab aansoo palkon tak aya
Jab yeh tanha dil ghabraya
Humne dil ko yeh samjhaya
...Dil aakhir tu kyun rota hai
Duniya mein yunhi hota hai
Yeh jo gehre sannate hain
Waqt ne sabko hi baante hain
Thoda ghum hai sabka qissa
Thodi dhoop hai sabka hissa
Aankh teri bekaar hi nam hai
Har pal ek naya mausam hai
Kyun tu aise pal khota hai
Dil aakhir tu kyun rota hai
Found this link on youtube and it was worth sharing:
Jab jab dard ka baadal chaya
Jab ghum ka saya lehraya
Jab aansoo palkon tak aya
Jab yeh tanha dil ghabraya
Humne dil ko yeh samjhaya
...Dil aakhir tu kyun rota hai
Duniya mein yunhi hota hai
Yeh jo gehre sannate hain
Waqt ne sabko hi baante hain
Thoda ghum hai sabka qissa
Thodi dhoop hai sabka hissa
Aankh teri bekaar hi nam hai
Har pal ek naya mausam hai
Kyun tu aise pal khota hai
Dil aakhir tu kyun rota hai
Found this link on youtube and it was worth sharing:
Thursday, June 30, 2011
miss you papa
there are moments in everyday life when the realization that papa is no longer with me tries to sink a little bit more deep. these are moments when i remember the days, he used to bring fresh jamun for me during summer days. he had those jamuns because a poor sabjiwala did not had money to buy medicine so my father used to give him the medicines in barter for the jamuns. no wonder they tasted so sweet.
i miss you so badly....i wish i could have spent some more time with you.....
i miss you so badly....i wish i could have spent some more time with you.....
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Friday, April 08, 2011
1984 riots
I was four and a half years old when the 1984 riots unfolded in Delhi. We happened to be in Delhi when the riots happened. The only thing I remember is sitting in the Vayudoot flight from New Delhi to Kota as a girl. Yes, my mom had done two piggytails and I also remember that the air-hostess complimented me for picking only 2 candies from her tray. She said a very well behaved boy.
However, Sikhs all over the world should be ashamed of themselves that even after 27 years, there is no justice for us. More than five thousands were killed sadly ny our own people. Most of the people who killed sikhs, burned them alive, or raped our women, are most probably between the ages of 45 and 50 now. How do they sleep at night? How do they look at the faces of their young sons and daughters? I wish one of them comes out of the darkness one day and apologizes to the women who once had everything and are now left with just memories.
However, Sikhs all over the world should be ashamed of themselves that even after 27 years, there is no justice for us. More than five thousands were killed sadly ny our own people. Most of the people who killed sikhs, burned them alive, or raped our women, are most probably between the ages of 45 and 50 now. How do they sleep at night? How do they look at the faces of their young sons and daughters? I wish one of them comes out of the darkness one day and apologizes to the women who once had everything and are now left with just memories.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
pyaar
"Choti Choti Baaton Mein Chipa Hain Yeh Pyaar...."
"Rote Rote Hasne Ki Dawa Hain Yeh Pyaar"
Love is thinking about class IV-B and remembering Papa standing outside my class on my results day. Always smiling....I can still see him through those grilled windows.
"Rote Rote Hasne Ki Dawa Hain Yeh Pyaar"
Love is thinking about class IV-B and remembering Papa standing outside my class on my results day. Always smiling....I can still see him through those grilled windows.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
al pacino
nothing pleases me more than to see a standing ovation as Al Pacino walks to receive his golden globe award
Friday, October 08, 2010
I will miss you Ranade
I think I come back to my blog whenever I am in a sad mood. This is a place where I share or write my secret things...unlike FB where its all BS. Today as I departed from Ranade's apartment a strange sadness engulfed me. The feeling when you fly back from India.
When I first moved to the Bay Area 6.5 years ago, it was Ranade and Anu who welcomed me here. I used to spend my weekends with them and Ranade's effort to help somani and me organize the class reunion was phenomenal. So many good memories, so many fun times and seeing Ranade become a father. I wish I could have spend more night-outs learning bridge from you man....
Miss you till we meet when we meet,
Chadha
When I first moved to the Bay Area 6.5 years ago, it was Ranade and Anu who welcomed me here. I used to spend my weekends with them and Ranade's effort to help somani and me organize the class reunion was phenomenal. So many good memories, so many fun times and seeing Ranade become a father. I wish I could have spend more night-outs learning bridge from you man....
Miss you till we meet when we meet,
Chadha
Friday, September 10, 2010
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
yeh kya ho raha hain?
Jo saath thein woh ab saath nahi hain,
Jo ek saath khus thein woh ab khush nahi hain,
Woh ek saath khush to thein?
Bhrahm tha ya sach,
Shaayad bhrahm hi hoga,
Ya shaayad bhatak gaye hain woh.
Jo ek saath khus thein woh ab khush nahi hain,
Woh ek saath khush to thein?
Bhrahm tha ya sach,
Shaayad bhrahm hi hoga,
Ya shaayad bhatak gaye hain woh.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Madno
Sometimes you come across words that just pull you towards them. There is something about the way they are used or someone pronounces them in a certain manner. Recently I came across this word "Madno" and could not resist googling it up. "Madno" simply means "Sajna or Beloved". This one goes out for my Madno...:)
Check out this lovely track Madno from the movie Lamhaa. Do listen to the "Sajna" version of the Madno song beautifully sung my Mika and Chinmayi.
Check out this lovely track Madno from the movie Lamhaa. Do listen to the "Sajna" version of the Madno song beautifully sung my Mika and Chinmayi.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Rishi Kapoor Vs. Amitabh Bachan
If Rishi Kapoor gets to do half of the movies that Amitabh does, things would be so different..this one is for the finest oldie cutie of India...Rishi love you.
Monday, June 07, 2010
new albun "22 no faatak"
His new album "22 no faatak" is quite enjoyable. My favorite song is Tere Bin. Interestingly the guy is an engineer and works in Adobe full time. Most songs are romantic ones, my only wish was that he had put together a song about his college days as the album's title is dedicated to his college memories.
www.dilpreetbhatia.com
www.dilpreetbhatia.com
Sukhwinder Singh Concert Bay Area 6 June, 2010
Friends, Comrades and Fellow Music Lovers,
I hereby declare that I will avoid going to or supporting any Sukhwinder Singh concert or event. The guy has some serious problems and does not give a shit to his fans and their expectations. He sang just 6 or 7 songs, after appearing on stage 1 hour and 30 mins late and did not apologize.
That will be all!
I hereby declare that I will avoid going to or supporting any Sukhwinder Singh concert or event. The guy has some serious problems and does not give a shit to his fans and their expectations. He sang just 6 or 7 songs, after appearing on stage 1 hour and 30 mins late and did not apologize.
That will be all!
Saturday, May 01, 2010
Ranjha Ranjha from Raavan
Some songs just stick to you the first time...Ranjha Ranjha from Raavan is one of those.
May 1st comes and things such as fight for immigration reforms hold new meaning for me.
May 1st comes and things such as fight for immigration reforms hold new meaning for me.
Wednesday, February 03, 2010
blog exclusive pic
A picture from our recent trip from India taken during Sahiba-Jaspreet wedding. Love the colors.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
india calling
The feeling just keep getting stronger. All I need is the right opportunity to fit back in as if I had never left. Time will tell as I think it would mean lost 8 years of my life. Still I would have the remaining 40 odd to enjoy in India. I find it hard to understand whether being pragmatic has elements of cowardice hidden in them? Strength, wisdom, advice and prayers is what I seek.
Listening to Kay Kay right now and remembering how Parle used to recommend him as a singer.
Listening to Kay Kay right now and remembering how Parle used to recommend him as a singer.
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
Monday, December 07, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Sample these dialogues from the movie Blue
Nikki: Hum ko mile 12 ghante bhi nahin hue aur tum humure future ke bare me soch rahe ho ?
Sam: Main to peechle bara ghante se hi humure future ke bare me soch raha hoon ! Aur tum ?
Nikki: Sabkuchh batane ki zaroorat nahin hota *lips tremble*
Sam: *grins* (but gets a boner, secretly)
Sam: Bag mein kya hai ?
Gulshan: Mauka. Utha sako to utha lo. (Now that’s called raw machismo)
Sam : Ek bag ke liye 50 million dollars kuchh zyada nahin hai ?
Gulshan: Bag mera tha to kimat bhi main tyar karunga ! (Lesson in Valuation)
Mona: Mera sapna hai ek oceanography institute, marine life ko protect karne ke liye.
Sagar: Is janam me wo sapna hi rahega. Main machhli pakadta rahunga, tum pakate rehna…. (har har har)
Sagar: Koi aadmi sirf tab andhere mein baithta hai, jab wo isqh mein hota hai ya phir pareshan ho.
Sam: Who ek aur karan bhi andhere mein baithta haijab roshni chala jaye. (makes perfect logocal sense but also makes me laugh out loud)
Arav: I always have two of everything heh heh heh.
Mona: That’s Arav for you, he has two of everything! (makes me ROFL)
Then, there were lot of interrogative dialogues using the word ‘Sawal’ which teaches a sure shot way to compose the sharpest comeback lines. I am sure this can be effectively used in office and homes. Allow me to exemplify-
Boss: Maine jo kam bola tha wo tumne kiya ?
Me: Sawal ye nahin hai ki kam maine kiya ki nahin. Sawal ye hai kam hua ki nahin.
Then at home,
Wife: Tumko aadha kilo kanda lane ke liye bola tha, laya ?
Me: Sawal ye nahin hai ki main kanda laya ki nahin, sawal ye hai ki tumko kanda nahin mili to kya honewala hai.
Sam: Main to peechle bara ghante se hi humure future ke bare me soch raha hoon ! Aur tum ?
Nikki: Sabkuchh batane ki zaroorat nahin hota *lips tremble*
Sam: *grins* (but gets a boner, secretly)
Sam: Bag mein kya hai ?
Gulshan: Mauka. Utha sako to utha lo. (Now that’s called raw machismo)
Sam : Ek bag ke liye 50 million dollars kuchh zyada nahin hai ?
Gulshan: Bag mera tha to kimat bhi main tyar karunga ! (Lesson in Valuation)
Mona: Mera sapna hai ek oceanography institute, marine life ko protect karne ke liye.
Sagar: Is janam me wo sapna hi rahega. Main machhli pakadta rahunga, tum pakate rehna…. (har har har)
Sagar: Koi aadmi sirf tab andhere mein baithta hai, jab wo isqh mein hota hai ya phir pareshan ho.
Sam: Who ek aur karan bhi andhere mein baithta haijab roshni chala jaye. (makes perfect logocal sense but also makes me laugh out loud)
Arav: I always have two of everything heh heh heh.
Mona: That’s Arav for you, he has two of everything! (makes me ROFL)
Then, there were lot of interrogative dialogues using the word ‘Sawal’ which teaches a sure shot way to compose the sharpest comeback lines. I am sure this can be effectively used in office and homes. Allow me to exemplify-
Boss: Maine jo kam bola tha wo tumne kiya ?
Me: Sawal ye nahin hai ki kam maine kiya ki nahin. Sawal ye hai kam hua ki nahin.
Then at home,
Wife: Tumko aadha kilo kanda lane ke liye bola tha, laya ?
Me: Sawal ye nahin hai ki main kanda laya ki nahin, sawal ye hai ki tumko kanda nahin mili to kya honewala hai.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Instant Karma in Bay Area
I would say these guys are giving us some of the worst Indian events. They throw attitude like anything and just because there is no competition at this moment, they think people have to put up with their shit. I can see they are going down...sorry Instant Karma and please stop getting drunk 18 year old girls to boss people around in your stupid events.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Road Movie - Extended Promo FT. Abhay Deol (Hindi Movie)
Some things are just not worth posting on facebook :)
Friday, August 21, 2009
Sunday, August 09, 2009
love aaj kal
I have to say Imtiaz Ali knows how to use the whole Delhi feel or Punjabi feel in his movies. The scene which depicts Saif travelling to Calcutta just to see her is wonderful. Overall a good movie experience.
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Saturday, August 01, 2009
IPhone post
This is my first iPhone post. Mood is complex and the uncertainities within are overpowering. Somani and I once discussed how much we both love secretary jobs, I think I would use this passion when I start sending out toubebas tshirts in a couple of weeks.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
happiness
I wish I was a little more intelligent and had the ability to think deeper. My habbit of superficial understanding of everything helped me crack exams and get great scores but failed me to understand life and what I want from it.
That will be all.
That will be all.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
choti baatein
"choti baatein ki hoti hain yaadein badi"
Just exchanged some emails with topi and puneet on good old Cheda Shopping Center opposite Y-point.
Just exchanged some emails with topi and puneet on good old Cheda Shopping Center opposite Y-point.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
My IISc Day Part3
Later that afternoon, I met with Prof. Dwarkadasa again where he told me that I have been assigned to work with him during the summers. I was honest and upfront to tell him that I am not interested in Physical Metallurgy and would like to carry out my research on electronic materials. He was a very kind natured gentleman and offered his full support to me. Later that night I went to my dorm room and met my roommate Hrithvick, I do not remember his last name. Hrithvick was returning to IIsc for the second time and was carrying out research on genes and biology stuff. The moment we met, I was intrigued and impressed by his intelligence and confidence. On the contrary, he appeared to have figured me inside out. Within half an hour, he bluntly asked me that if I wanted to go to USA after your bachelors, to which I shamelessly said "yes".
Hrithvick smirked and probably crossed my name from his books completely. Over the summers, we rarely spoke or met as we were both busy carrying out research and were rarely in our room. Going back to that dilemmna I was in Prof. ESD next day told me that he had spoken with the registrar and if I am able to find a new advisor within a week to ten days, he would be okay otherwise, I would have to work with him to qualify for the Rs 2500/- stipend.
Hrithvick smirked and probably crossed my name from his books completely. Over the summers, we rarely spoke or met as we were both busy carrying out research and were rarely in our room. Going back to that dilemmna I was in Prof. ESD next day told me that he had spoken with the registrar and if I am able to find a new advisor within a week to ten days, he would be okay otherwise, I would have to work with him to qualify for the Rs 2500/- stipend.
I have a strong feeling
That I am meant to do something really big. I am hoping I discover that soon.
That will be all and I end on this note.
"Abhi Abhi mere dil mein yeh khyaal aaya hain..."
That will be all and I end on this note.
"Abhi Abhi mere dil mein yeh khyaal aaya hain..."
Friday, June 12, 2009
Youth of India
I think Indian youth should learn at least one martial art. With everything that has happened in the last three-four years to Indians outside India, we should hit back!!.
Personally I plan to learn the sikh martial art of Gatka this summers.
Personally I plan to learn the sikh martial art of Gatka this summers.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
IISc Days Part II
I reached Bangalore around 7pm and I clearly remember as I walking on the platform it felt as if the ground below was shaking. Anyhow, I managed to get an auto rickshaw an reached the IISc campus, clueless as to where I was going to spend the night. After talking to many people and dragging my big green VIP suitcase all over the campus, I met a warden who was kind enough to give me a temporary room for the night.
The room was huge, old and scary but I slept with the lights on. Next morning I attended a reception where I met the other 28 young fellows who were selected from all over India. They were all nice and warm people and to my bad luck, no girl worth my time was there. As I was used to such environments, I overcame this first disappointment with great ease and later that morning went to the Department of Metallurgy to meet my alloted Faculty member. I saw that Prof. ESD was mentioned in front of my name and I felt this was my chance to develop new solar cells. I reached Prof. ESD's office and noticed three other students in his office. I felt I was special so will talk to him once he is done with these other kids. But Prof. ESD immediately said, "Gurjeev, I have been expecting you, come on in"..I moved closer to the table..."7012 Aluminum Alloy would be your alloy to be used in NAL's unmanned aircrafts". Those words, I tell you....shattered me and they still echo in my head because those words were repeated in a slightly different form, again in Michigan. But that is a different story altogether.
Overconfident and loud mouthed which is not my natural style, I replied back "There is some error, I am here to work on solar cell materials". Prof. ESD, smiled at me and said "Come back in 30 minutes and we can talk more". I left his office totally shaken and shattered as if it was the end of the world. But when I look back, I have realized that life's challenges come in various forms and most of the times we just can't figure out things, can we?
The room was huge, old and scary but I slept with the lights on. Next morning I attended a reception where I met the other 28 young fellows who were selected from all over India. They were all nice and warm people and to my bad luck, no girl worth my time was there. As I was used to such environments, I overcame this first disappointment with great ease and later that morning went to the Department of Metallurgy to meet my alloted Faculty member. I saw that Prof. ESD was mentioned in front of my name and I felt this was my chance to develop new solar cells. I reached Prof. ESD's office and noticed three other students in his office. I felt I was special so will talk to him once he is done with these other kids. But Prof. ESD immediately said, "Gurjeev, I have been expecting you, come on in"..I moved closer to the table..."7012 Aluminum Alloy would be your alloy to be used in NAL's unmanned aircrafts". Those words, I tell you....shattered me and they still echo in my head because those words were repeated in a slightly different form, again in Michigan. But that is a different story altogether.
Overconfident and loud mouthed which is not my natural style, I replied back "There is some error, I am here to work on solar cell materials". Prof. ESD, smiled at me and said "Come back in 30 minutes and we can talk more". I left his office totally shaken and shattered as if it was the end of the world. But when I look back, I have realized that life's challenges come in various forms and most of the times we just can't figure out things, can we?
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Son Of A Sardar
More than a sense of fulfilment and pride, a sense of urgency to stand up and act surrounds me.
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
long time
Do not have time to write blogs these days, facebook updates are way too convenient. But there are still somethings such as writing Heidi Klum is hot that I can only do on this blog. I think with Facebook having office colleagues and family, my blog gives me the privacy I seek (oxymoron ?).
That will be all for now
That will be all for now
Monday, March 16, 2009
My IISc days-Part 1
Sometimes you get these early morning dreams down the memory lane and yesterday morning I experienced such memories from my IISc days. I had spent two months during the summer of 2000 at IISc Bangalore as part of Young Engineering Fellows. In those two months, I learned so much about myself, my passions and my friends that I can write a book on what went inside my head.
The whole Bangalore trip started off on a setback note. My parents were really proud of the fact that I got selected for this fellowship but my brother who is very passionate about booking tickets forgot to check that my train was not going to take 24 hours from Kota but rather 48 hours to reach Bangalore. We learned this only after reaching the station and I still remember the concerned face of my mother. But I assured her that I would be fine and what started after that was probably the longest journey of my life. I bought my first Filmfare at Nagda junction and read it twice word to word during the trip. I learned the importance of having a good book (not Filmfare level) in your handbag for such long trips. I also learned that the electric engine shiffts to a diesel engine at Kazipet Junction which serves the world's best Mango juice. Just like at Kajrat people go crazy about the wada-pav, people go crazy at Kazipet to drink some of these fruit juices.
Having successfully completed around 28 hours on the train, by the next day I felt much better, less bored and came down from my side upper berth. I slept that night feeling strangely confused and wondered why I was going to Bangalore for two months?, when I could spend that time in Kota/Delhi chilling with family
The whole Bangalore trip started off on a setback note. My parents were really proud of the fact that I got selected for this fellowship but my brother who is very passionate about booking tickets forgot to check that my train was not going to take 24 hours from Kota but rather 48 hours to reach Bangalore. We learned this only after reaching the station and I still remember the concerned face of my mother. But I assured her that I would be fine and what started after that was probably the longest journey of my life. I bought my first Filmfare at Nagda junction and read it twice word to word during the trip. I learned the importance of having a good book (not Filmfare level) in your handbag for such long trips. I also learned that the electric engine shiffts to a diesel engine at Kazipet Junction which serves the world's best Mango juice. Just like at Kajrat people go crazy about the wada-pav, people go crazy at Kazipet to drink some of these fruit juices.
Having successfully completed around 28 hours on the train, by the next day I felt much better, less bored and came down from my side upper berth. I slept that night feeling strangely confused and wondered why I was going to Bangalore for two months?, when I could spend that time in Kota/Delhi chilling with family
Sunday, March 01, 2009
Bay Leaf Cuisine of India San Jose
This is one of my favorite restaurants in the Bay Area. The tikkas, curries and breads are all amazing and I think this restaurant has made me at least 5lb heavier in the last three years. Interestingly Bay Leaf has some coupons posted on google business pages. I have personally used the 15% discount coupon.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Pyar ke saath emotional atyachaar
Some cannot imagine me appreciating english songs, actually even I have some strange feelings declaring myself a big fan of english music. I guess it does not go well with my public image. But I hereby declare, I am a big Pink Floyd, David Gray, Billy Joel and now a Lisa Hannigan fan. Kasam se Lisa ne to emotional atyachaar kar diya (I was dying to use this phrase in my blog). The periodicity in her head movements is the killer and watch those feet enjoying the beat.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Delhi-6
Watched this movie on a rainy night four days ago with two kids. Honestly I came out with mixed emotions. The passion of the director was evident in the movie but sadly his hero could not carry the scenes well enough. Abhishek who was adding so much value to every scene in Yuva looked useless other than the achar making song "Saiyyan ched ...". Maybe it was the fact that I was sitting in the first row and Abhishek looked fat to me with his guppa-face covering the entire screen. Overall Abhishek was disappointing and I think the movie ended up being a *** movie instead of having everything to make it **** movie.
Sitting with two kids who have been brought up in USA, I realized that these movies are priceless to teach them about Ramayana and Indian culture. Needless to say RO-Mehra did a great job as a director but could have ended the movie better. The whole Amitabh helping out in his son's movie is not at all appreciated. Last but not the least, Soonam Kapoor is here to stay.
Sitting with two kids who have been brought up in USA, I realized that these movies are priceless to teach them about Ramayana and Indian culture. Needless to say RO-Mehra did a great job as a director but could have ended the movie better. The whole Amitabh helping out in his son's movie is not at all appreciated. Last but not the least, Soonam Kapoor is here to stay.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Nelly Kim
Everyone knows Nadia...but maybe not Nelly Kim. The second women in the history of Olympics to score a 10.0 in gymnastics and in the same games as Nadia. Respect...
Watched Slumdog millionaire today...good movie.
Watched Slumdog millionaire today...good movie.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Luck by Chance
I have a feeling this movie would be a HIT....
I hope I can convince Ishmeet to watch this movie :)
I hope I can convince Ishmeet to watch this movie :)
Sunday, January 25, 2009
chhabees janvary
Its only when I was standing on the other side of the line, I understood how much that line meant to me and how much I would love to be back...
Gajini...I don't understand why anyone would like this movie. From the begining the movie comes across as a second tier effort copying tits-bits from the Memento and the action scenes from Bourne Ultimatum. The Heroine is useless and tries desperately to enact what Madhuri, Sridevi, Juhi showed us 10 years ago. Overall a mediocre movie whose only saving grace is music by A. R. Rehman. That brings me to my second point, I think Rehman needs to cool down and stop being Reshammiya. He is in too many movies these days and I do not approve of that. Not that anyone cares but you never know he might realize it himself.
Going back to Gajini, the only good thing about the movie was the villians weapon. I think that is how these things happen in real life. But Aamir Khan, I expect better stuff from you, what you tried to show me in Gajini was a complete waste of time and I demand you to work on something original.
Signing off
Gajini...I don't understand why anyone would like this movie. From the begining the movie comes across as a second tier effort copying tits-bits from the Memento and the action scenes from Bourne Ultimatum. The Heroine is useless and tries desperately to enact what Madhuri, Sridevi, Juhi showed us 10 years ago. Overall a mediocre movie whose only saving grace is music by A. R. Rehman. That brings me to my second point, I think Rehman needs to cool down and stop being Reshammiya. He is in too many movies these days and I do not approve of that. Not that anyone cares but you never know he might realize it himself.
Going back to Gajini, the only good thing about the movie was the villians weapon. I think that is how these things happen in real life. But Aamir Khan, I expect better stuff from you, what you tried to show me in Gajini was a complete waste of time and I demand you to work on something original.
Signing off
Friday, January 16, 2009
Delhi -6
Saw its trailor for the first time yesterday. I could sense Rakeiysh OmPrakash Mehra (ROPM) all over. And Waheeda ..ufff..my $8 are already on this movie. It seems apna man ROPM loves Delhi to the core. It was clearly evident in Rang de Basanti and now he openly expresses his love with Delhi Pincode #-6. I checked out the music of this movie and it is splendid mix of various singers. A sureshot buy rating for this album from my side.
Monday, January 05, 2009
Chupke Se...
Whenever I listen to this song from Saathiya, it reminds me of Parle. Especially the lines "doston se jhoothi moothi baatein karke, teri-meri baatein karna". Saala ekdum senti aur jhootha banda hain. Dil ki baat kabhi nahi kar paata. Aur doosro ki kahani suna kar apni kahani sunaaya karta tha. Between only Gulzar can have words like February, sardi, Marwa, Mir in one line.
Thursday, January 01, 2009
New Year 2009
The new year has arrived and we welcomed it with friends who are just like family. We sang, we danced and wish that the new year brings with happiness and peace of mind for everyone.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
jaggu is back
Do not know what has happened to me but I am listening to Jaggu again. Something changed inside me and because of that I had lost my connection with him. But I am so glad to have him back with me.
Tere saath gayi woh raunak...
Ab is shehar mein rakhan kya hain...
Tere saath gayi woh raunak...
Ab is shehar mein rakhan kya hain...
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Sab ganda hain par Dhanda hain
Recently we applied for a credit card for Ishmeet, so that she can start building her own credit history. And to my utter surprize citibank approved her a card for $25,000 credit limit (please take note this is based on spousal income). That is more than three of my personal credit cards combined. So now hopefully you get the title....
Topi recently reviewed the music of Gajini and he rightfully got the best song of the movie "Kaise Mujhe" sung by Benny Dayal. This song for me is probably one of the better ones after a long time. The best part is that there is a instrumental piece of this song in the album. Listen to the instrumental and give me two duaas...I am begining to like the whole idea of good instrumentals. Primarily because this is only place you get to hear quality flute and violin pieces. Otherwise the beauty of flute is simply lost in the drums and synth. Another thing worth mentioning about Gajini is the solo song sung by Shreya Goshal. A pretty crappy song lyrics wise but just enjoy her range.
Topi recently reviewed the music of Gajini and he rightfully got the best song of the movie "Kaise Mujhe" sung by Benny Dayal. This song for me is probably one of the better ones after a long time. The best part is that there is a instrumental piece of this song in the album. Listen to the instrumental and give me two duaas...I am begining to like the whole idea of good instrumentals. Primarily because this is only place you get to hear quality flute and violin pieces. Otherwise the beauty of flute is simply lost in the drums and synth. Another thing worth mentioning about Gajini is the solo song sung by Shreya Goshal. A pretty crappy song lyrics wise but just enjoy her range.
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
what should I do....???
Note: If you have already submitted your biography to Marquis Who's Who, please disregard this email.
Dear G CHADHA,
This is a final reminder that you are being considered for inclusion in the upcoming 2010 Edition of Who's Who in America. The deadline for submitting your biographical information is December 15, 2008.
Since 1899, when A.N. Marquis published the First Edition of Who's Who in America, business people, researchers, educators, students and others have relied upon its accuracy and currency of information. As we look forward to the publication of our 64th Edition, the original Who's Who in America continues to be recognized globally as the premier biographical data source pertaining to living Americans of notable achievement from every significant field of endeavor.
To be considered for inclusion in this prestigious publication, you need only provide the requested information by completing our online Biographical Data Form by December 15, 2008.
If your data passes our initial screening, we will prepare your biography in Marquis Who's Who format and send you a pre-publication proof for your verification and approval.
I congratulate you on the achievements that have brought your name to the attention of our editorial committee. We look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Robert Docherty
Director, Editorial and
Selection Committee
P.S. Inclusion of your biography in Who's Who in America, of course, carries neither cost nor obligation to you of any kind. Our goal with each new edition is to have full representation of noteworthy and accomplished men and women across all fields and industries.
Dear G CHADHA,
This is a final reminder that you are being considered for inclusion in the upcoming 2010 Edition of Who's Who in America. The deadline for submitting your biographical information is December 15, 2008.
Since 1899, when A.N. Marquis published the First Edition of Who's Who in America, business people, researchers, educators, students and others have relied upon its accuracy and currency of information. As we look forward to the publication of our 64th Edition, the original Who's Who in America continues to be recognized globally as the premier biographical data source pertaining to living Americans of notable achievement from every significant field of endeavor.
To be considered for inclusion in this prestigious publication, you need only provide the requested information by completing our online Biographical Data Form by December 15, 2008.
If your data passes our initial screening, we will prepare your biography in Marquis Who's Who format and send you a pre-publication proof for your verification and approval.
I congratulate you on the achievements that have brought your name to the attention of our editorial committee. We look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Robert Docherty
Director, Editorial and
Selection Committee
P.S. Inclusion of your biography in Who's Who in America, of course, carries neither cost nor obligation to you of any kind. Our goal with each new edition is to have full representation of noteworthy and accomplished men and women across all fields and industries.
Kirpan
For the simple mind, the significance of sikhs carrying the kirpan (sword) is linked to our martial history which I believe happened by chance because someone had to take up the ownership to defend India and ofcourse Northern frontier provinces. But Prof. Puran Singh description is just so beautiful...here is goes.
"Every Sikh is to wear "His" Sword. Not his own. Kirpan is a gift from the Guru. It is not an instrument of offence or defense. It is a mind made intense by the love of the Guru. The Sikh is to have a sword-like mind. It is the visible sign of an intensely sensitive soul.'
The Sword Cuts rapidly and so does the mind
"Every Sikh is to wear "His" Sword. Not his own. Kirpan is a gift from the Guru. It is not an instrument of offence or defense. It is a mind made intense by the love of the Guru. The Sikh is to have a sword-like mind. It is the visible sign of an intensely sensitive soul.'
The Sword Cuts rapidly and so does the mind
Sunday, December 07, 2008
Taj Palace
"I have held my ground as human history has unfolded in its timeless procession of laughter and tears. Courage and cowardice, good and evil. I will prevail"
An adv. run by Taj Group in WSJ last friday.
An adv. run by Taj Group in WSJ last friday.
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
flying back from NY
Flying back from NY was a cool experience. I saw three airplanes flying parallel or at an angle to my plane, different altitute ofcourse. This is just an amazing sight as you get an idea on how fast these planes are flying.
Oye Lucky Lucky Oye is a cool movie.
Oye Lucky Lucky Oye is a cool movie.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
cell phones
sometimes I wish, we had cell phone culture when we were in college...so many amazing moments could have been captured.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
constructive ego
While reading a friends blog recently, I encountered this term constructive ego (CE). I must admit, I have been fascinated by this term since. My friend recommended that you should have a healthy dose of it. I used to refer to this friend as a "snob" quite often back in the days and so followed a chain of thoughts and I ended up thinking that what is ghamandi (snob) for me is maybe constructive ego (CE) for him. But the more I pondered, and did introspection to find out where my constructive ego is, the more it got clear that snob is completely different from CE and I probably suffer from a deficiency of CE.
The second reason chain of thought is, if I am right about this concept, why do I lack it? I seem to lack it more in my personal life rather than professional life. I could identify scenarios form my professional life where this constructive ego helped me withstand pressures and present my ideas effectively. But in personal life, I could not think of any scenarios where I could identify me using this CE to put forward my ideas or points. The lack of it always makes me go through pain and suffering. Some of my close friends all seem to have it including my wife. From all this introspection, I think constructive ego is a good thing to possess and in the times we live it helps us all to deal with life.
The second reason chain of thought is, if I am right about this concept, why do I lack it? I seem to lack it more in my personal life rather than professional life. I could identify scenarios form my professional life where this constructive ego helped me withstand pressures and present my ideas effectively. But in personal life, I could not think of any scenarios where I could identify me using this CE to put forward my ideas or points. The lack of it always makes me go through pain and suffering. Some of my close friends all seem to have it including my wife. From all this introspection, I think constructive ego is a good thing to possess and in the times we live it helps us all to deal with life.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
James Bond
So i went to see James Bond and sadly they spoke very fast english. I did not follow half of what everyone was saying..
that will be all
that will be all
Sunday, November 09, 2008
I salute
Every single paraolympian ever to take part in the Olympics against all odds. There is nothing I can write in this blog that can reflect what I just saw and felt. All I have is mad respect for these brave atheletes.
Saturday, November 08, 2008
Dasvidaniya and Oye Lucky Oye
Both albums are very nice and capture their markets.
Dasvidaniya: is all about heart felt songs and my personal favorite is "Mumma", a sweet song about ma. I would rate this album a **** and recommend a buy rating. The music is by Kailash Kher (not 100% sure).
Oye Lucky, Lucky Oye: is all about Harpreet Singh :) The songs have the same masti that I would associate with Harpreet of good old IIT days. The lyrics are sharp and funny at many places. There is a Rajasthani number which is something I have never heard in a bollywood movie and for sure punjabi "folk" is making its way into mainstream bollywood. Songs like Jugni will rock the clubs for months to come. I would rate this album **** and recommend a buy rating.
Dasvidaniya: is all about heart felt songs and my personal favorite is "Mumma", a sweet song about ma. I would rate this album a **** and recommend a buy rating. The music is by Kailash Kher (not 100% sure).
Oye Lucky, Lucky Oye: is all about Harpreet Singh :) The songs have the same masti that I would associate with Harpreet of good old IIT days. The lyrics are sharp and funny at many places. There is a Rajasthani number which is something I have never heard in a bollywood movie and for sure punjabi "folk" is making its way into mainstream bollywood. Songs like Jugni will rock the clubs for months to come. I would rate this album **** and recommend a buy rating.
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Adsense does not makes much sense
I added adsense after both Topi and Parle added it to their respective blogs but somehow this whole adsense thingi does not makes much sense. It is perhaps the only google application I have come across as not so user friendly.
I still get the message my account needs verification when I have a account verfied confirmation email in my inbox...well...I got to love the tags for this blog.
I still get the message my account needs verification when I have a account verfied confirmation email in my inbox...well...I got to love the tags for this blog.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
what is love?
It takes a moment to fall in love but it takes a life to understand what love is....
I can hear Sathe saying... "Dude that is so gay, I can't believe you actually wrote that on your blog" and Abhi and Manav laughing.
Manav soon turns back and says...."*&626&%^od sab &^%$^&yaap hain"
I can hear Sathe saying... "Dude that is so gay, I can't believe you actually wrote that on your blog" and Abhi and Manav laughing.
Manav soon turns back and says...."*&626&%^od sab &^%$^&yaap hain"
Friday, October 10, 2008
Images from Gaffar Market
I clicked these while visiting Gaffar market during my recent trip to India in March 2008. I had visited Gaffar Market at least four to five times during my trip. My sympathies with all those who lost dear ones.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Thursday, September 04, 2008
bata by choice
The company whose manufactured shoes were worn by yours truly from class H.K.G to class XII lost its founder recently. We lost Mr. Thomas Bata, the czech born founder of Bata Shoe Company. It is funny that all this while I thought Bata is an Indian compamy. Another benefit of reading newspaper.
Monday, September 01, 2008
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Friday, August 29, 2008
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
what i miss the most
What I miss the most
1) Go to sabji mundi on my Hero Ranger with a 20Rs note and get onions, tomatoes, dhania, mirchi, bread and eggs for Mummy.
2) Play in my gali with all my friends shunty, antriksh, sonal and raja. Maybe even badminton under street light on warm summer nights.
3) Cricket bet match with Amjad and his team. I still remember the key players in my team Nangia, Varun, Sonal, Shunty, Lokwani, Raja and Sambhav.
4) Stay up late with all my cousins (vicky, mini-di, gagan, deepa) making rooh-afza golas and sleeping on the chatt gazing at the stars.
5) Take a walk with Harpal Chacha to the paan shop at night and maybe have a softy at Jai Shiv Bakery.
6) Celebrate Diwali... bursting crackers and playing with the snake boxes :)
7) Enjoy the monsoon of all the things....get wet in the rain...kill the tiddies which come after the rains.
8) Eat kachoris at Sidharth Misthaan Bhandaar.
9) Sit behind Anant on his Hero Puch and check out Kota.
1) Go to sabji mundi on my Hero Ranger with a 20Rs note and get onions, tomatoes, dhania, mirchi, bread and eggs for Mummy.
2) Play in my gali with all my friends shunty, antriksh, sonal and raja. Maybe even badminton under street light on warm summer nights.
3) Cricket bet match with Amjad and his team. I still remember the key players in my team Nangia, Varun, Sonal, Shunty, Lokwani, Raja and Sambhav.
4) Stay up late with all my cousins (vicky, mini-di, gagan, deepa) making rooh-afza golas and sleeping on the chatt gazing at the stars.
5) Take a walk with Harpal Chacha to the paan shop at night and maybe have a softy at Jai Shiv Bakery.
6) Celebrate Diwali... bursting crackers and playing with the snake boxes :)
7) Enjoy the monsoon of all the things....get wet in the rain...kill the tiddies which come after the rains.
8) Eat kachoris at Sidharth Misthaan Bhandaar.
9) Sit behind Anant on his Hero Puch and check out Kota.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Sikh image in Bollywood
The Happy-go-Lucky or maybe Always Happy - Always Lucky and loads of Dhucky sikh image might be getting a facelift in bollywood with Singh is King. It is strangely cute to see a guy in Pug and beard (semi-automatic) romancing with Katrina (feels good :p)
see this video and take a look..."teri ore"
PS: I lot of purists will not like this post and I know it.
see this video and take a look..."teri ore"
PS: I lot of purists will not like this post and I know it.
Car maintenance
I have always felt there should be a resource to tell me how much any maintenance job on my car should cost. Moreover, the feeling that someone is trying to rip me off is so obnoxious that it stresses me out tremendously. Recently, when trying to get my rear brake pads and rotors replaced, I went through this traumatizing experience. I was quoted prices from $350 to $1100 for pretty much the same job (and more) so you can imagine the "someone trying to rip me off feeling" I was talking about.
I googled, yelped and forumed pretty much did everything to feel confident with my approach but in the end gave up and left the car at the Nissan Stealership. Recently I found a new pretty cool website that gives people like me the much needed information and honest price estimates. The website is called RepairPal and I would like to thank the creators. It provides you information on the statistics of how much any service job on your vehicle should cost you. For example, for the brake job I had paid $450 and I was not disappointed to see it as the average amount for that job. Interestingly, the lowest price that I was quoted for the job is also the lowest price according to the website. It is funny how I covered +/- 3 sigma by just making a 10-15 calls, scary isn't it.
I googled, yelped and forumed pretty much did everything to feel confident with my approach but in the end gave up and left the car at the Nissan Stealership. Recently I found a new pretty cool website that gives people like me the much needed information and honest price estimates. The website is called RepairPal and I would like to thank the creators. It provides you information on the statistics of how much any service job on your vehicle should cost you. For example, for the brake job I had paid $450 and I was not disappointed to see it as the average amount for that job. Interestingly, the lowest price that I was quoted for the job is also the lowest price according to the website. It is funny how I covered +/- 3 sigma by just making a 10-15 calls, scary isn't it.
Monday, July 14, 2008
khuda jaane
Khuda Jaane Ki Mein fida hoon,
Kudha Jaane Mein Mitt Gaya,
Khuda Jaane ki yeh kyun hua hain...
KK and Shilpa Rao have sung something not very unusual yet something very amazing. I guess I missed KK's voice
Kudha Jaane Mein Mitt Gaya,
Khuda Jaane ki yeh kyun hua hain...
KK and Shilpa Rao have sung something not very unusual yet something very amazing. I guess I missed KK's voice
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Avengi Ja Nahin - Rabbi Shergill
Comrades and Fellow Countrymen,
It is time for all of you to stand in respect for one musician, his name is Rabbi Shergill.
Listen to "Avengi Ja Nahin" and you will thank me. Maybe I am over reacting but if you listen to this album closely you will agree with me.
It is time for all of you to stand in respect for one musician, his name is Rabbi Shergill.
Listen to "Avengi Ja Nahin" and you will thank me. Maybe I am over reacting but if you listen to this album closely you will agree with me.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Atif Aslam, Kailasa and Richa Sharma Concert
So I went too this concert last Saturday, the band Kailasa featuring vocals by Kailash Kher was awesome and Richa Sharmaa was phenomenal. Not so suprisingly, Atif Aslam was the main act of the night and he did not disappoint mast tha patha....sometimes I think if Atif was a stock, I would have been a millionaire at least since I would have had probably the largest number of pre-IPO stocks.
I will end this post with a few lines from an upcoming song I am listening these days.
दिल की येही खाता हैं,
के दिल को नही पता हैं,
की दिल चाहता हैं क्या???
PS1: Naresh Paresh from the band Kailasa were great on stage.
PS2: Amaanat Ali should stop singing and join a dance troupe. He does not like singing and prefers to just jump on stage.
I will end this post with a few lines from an upcoming song I am listening these days.
दिल की येही खाता हैं,
के दिल को नही पता हैं,
की दिल चाहता हैं क्या???
PS1: Naresh Paresh from the band Kailasa were great on stage.
PS2: Amaanat Ali should stop singing and join a dance troupe. He does not like singing and prefers to just jump on stage.
Monday, June 02, 2008
Reality TV as real as it can get
Amidst a lot of confusion over the contract and my resentment, Ishmeet had decided to participate in the saregamapa zee tv usa 2008 contest. She was enthusiastic on the amount of learning one gets in these contests and an international exposure. Last Saturday, her dreams were shattered because during the last few days when the audience applauded and the host Aishwarya praised her singing, the judges could not go beyond the fact that she is a Sikh girl singing a song with Punjabi influence. Instead of appreciating her singing, Suresh Wadekar gave her a condescending comment in the very first episode itself. Suresh now a veteran in judging these reality singing talent shows should know for sure that these songs are preselected and given to contestants one month in advance to practice.
The second episode was shot and Ishmeet rocked the stage again, this time with a sufiana song (predecided by Zee TV). But the judges were not impressed again because they could not bear to see Ishmeet performing at a level beyond her female peers. I do not want to divulge details about other contestants but there was this guy Jeoffery Iqbal and I can assure you he was goooood. Coming back to judges, other contestants and crew members told me that they felt a huge personality conflict between Suresh Wadekar and Ishmeet. I think he was taken aback by her confidence and voice throw, something he never had and had to stick to Bhajans and romantic songs his entire career. The other guy Aadesh Srivastav is not really judging but putting oil into the fire as needed. We all know how openly he dissed Ishmeet Singh during Star Voice of India contest.
After the third episode, these guys could not take it anymore and did what they do best. They broke Ishmeet’s confidence by giving her bad comments and forced Zee TV to change her song at the last moment for the next episode. She was given a “Lata-amma” song practically 4 hours before her performance (if you remove 8 hours of sleep time). She was competing with other contestants who had practiced their songs for over a month and a week of practice with live music. My darling angel went on stage like a brave soldier knowing her time had come because the judges did not liked her style of singing and confidence. She went on stage with just one practice with live music and did her best amongst all the pressure and tension. But it was her time to depart. Rest of it was all a formality.
In her exit speech, Ishmeet very politely reminded the judges that she does understand that her voice is different and she will make the best use of it. But I think even hundreds of Ishmeet cannot make people like Aadesh Srivastav and Suresh Wadekar understand that if Lata-amma sings an Abida Parveen song it is not going to match the class and level of Abida Parveen (vice-versa also holds true). No wonder these two guys have no actual work other than judging in their hands. Ishmeet performed her last act on the song “Yeh Ishq Hai” from the movie Jab We Met. As always she smiled in front of the camera and brought down the house. But she and everyone else in the crew knew she was targeted. She was targeted for being different, being a Sikh and being confident. I am sure if she had more time to practice the last song, she would have nailed that one too. But these heartless judges could not care for less, when Ishmeet walked to Suresh Wadekar after the show; he had an “I do not care” expression. I guess these guys work only when the cameras are rolling since they no longer care for music but something else. I am hoping Ishmeet got some learning from this experience, if not necessarily the one she desired.
PS: Suresh Wadekar stop wearing netted black shirts, your man boobs show off.
The second episode was shot and Ishmeet rocked the stage again, this time with a sufiana song (predecided by Zee TV). But the judges were not impressed again because they could not bear to see Ishmeet performing at a level beyond her female peers. I do not want to divulge details about other contestants but there was this guy Jeoffery Iqbal and I can assure you he was goooood. Coming back to judges, other contestants and crew members told me that they felt a huge personality conflict between Suresh Wadekar and Ishmeet. I think he was taken aback by her confidence and voice throw, something he never had and had to stick to Bhajans and romantic songs his entire career. The other guy Aadesh Srivastav is not really judging but putting oil into the fire as needed. We all know how openly he dissed Ishmeet Singh during Star Voice of India contest.
After the third episode, these guys could not take it anymore and did what they do best. They broke Ishmeet’s confidence by giving her bad comments and forced Zee TV to change her song at the last moment for the next episode. She was given a “Lata-amma” song practically 4 hours before her performance (if you remove 8 hours of sleep time). She was competing with other contestants who had practiced their songs for over a month and a week of practice with live music. My darling angel went on stage like a brave soldier knowing her time had come because the judges did not liked her style of singing and confidence. She went on stage with just one practice with live music and did her best amongst all the pressure and tension. But it was her time to depart. Rest of it was all a formality.
In her exit speech, Ishmeet very politely reminded the judges that she does understand that her voice is different and she will make the best use of it. But I think even hundreds of Ishmeet cannot make people like Aadesh Srivastav and Suresh Wadekar understand that if Lata-amma sings an Abida Parveen song it is not going to match the class and level of Abida Parveen (vice-versa also holds true). No wonder these two guys have no actual work other than judging in their hands. Ishmeet performed her last act on the song “Yeh Ishq Hai” from the movie Jab We Met. As always she smiled in front of the camera and brought down the house. But she and everyone else in the crew knew she was targeted. She was targeted for being different, being a Sikh and being confident. I am sure if she had more time to practice the last song, she would have nailed that one too. But these heartless judges could not care for less, when Ishmeet walked to Suresh Wadekar after the show; he had an “I do not care” expression. I guess these guys work only when the cameras are rolling since they no longer care for music but something else. I am hoping Ishmeet got some learning from this experience, if not necessarily the one she desired.
PS: Suresh Wadekar stop wearing netted black shirts, your man boobs show off.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
where were you
Where were you when I was burned and broken
While the days slipped by from my window watching
Where were you when I was hurt and helpless
Because the things you say and the things you do surround me
While you were hanging yourself on someone else's words
Dying to believe in what you heard
I was staring straight into the shining sun
Lost in thought and lost in time
While the seeds of life and the seeds of change were planted
Outside the rain fell dark and slow
While I pondered on this dangerous but irresistible pastime
I took a heavenly ride through our silence
I knew the moment had arrived
For killing the past and coming back to life
I took a heavenly ride through our silenceI knew the waiting had begun
And headed straight..into the shining sun
While the days slipped by from my window watching
Where were you when I was hurt and helpless
Because the things you say and the things you do surround me
While you were hanging yourself on someone else's words
Dying to believe in what you heard
I was staring straight into the shining sun
Lost in thought and lost in time
While the seeds of life and the seeds of change were planted
Outside the rain fell dark and slow
While I pondered on this dangerous but irresistible pastime
I took a heavenly ride through our silence
I knew the moment had arrived
For killing the past and coming back to life
I took a heavenly ride through our silenceI knew the waiting had begun
And headed straight..into the shining sun
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na
I have a gut feeling the music will be very fresh and popular for this movie.
That will be all
PS1: Amitabh Bachan should stop writing his blog. Most of its is bull anyways.
PS2: Join http://www.lifeinlines.com/ by Maninder Gulati. I am still upset he let go of his kesh to get girls.
Ps3: The Bommarillu actress has finally arrived.
Ps34: I am running 5k after 3 years tomorrow, wish me luck
That will be all
PS1: Amitabh Bachan should stop writing his blog. Most of its is bull anyways.
PS2: Join http://www.lifeinlines.com/ by Maninder Gulati. I am still upset he let go of his kesh to get girls.
Ps3: The Bommarillu actress has finally arrived.
Ps34: I am running 5k after 3 years tomorrow, wish me luck
Monday, May 05, 2008
मेरा हिन्दी में पहला post
भगवान् गूगल वालों को लम्बी उमर दे और उनका स्टॉक $१००० तक पंहुचा दे।
दिल गद गद हो गया
दिल गद गद हो गया
surge ahead
Life has strange ways of challenging us. A person looking from outside will always get an incomplete view of whats happening in your life. Moreover, if you choose not to look at your life correctly you may also fool yourself.
The bottom line in life is that if you do not surge ahead you will always go down. Not because others will go ahead of you. Simply because you will slip down. It is only "you" (and no body else) who decides which way you want to go.
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The bottom line in life is that if you do not surge ahead you will always go down. Not because others will go ahead of you. Simply because you will slip down. It is only "you" (and no body else) who decides which way you want to go.
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