New Year - I am excited

New Years Eve!!! Hmmm...

Coming year has so many things already set to happen. Some by chance, some planned and some spontaneously planned. Hopefully plans will excute as planned.

Last to last, new years was a bad year with Tsunami and me and my friends donated their new year celebration money. Let us hope nothing similar happens this year. And last year I was too busy to think about anything regarding life, celebration or anything. While, this new years resolution is to spend some time living and not working; and travelling across the globe. Hopefully I will be able to travel as much as I am planning to.

Wishing a very happy and prosperous new year to all, who visit my blog. I won't be posting anything till 2nd Jan, 2007 as I will be travelling.

Kitne Ajeeb Rishtey Hein Yahan Par

Looking back at last two years, it makes me think; how weird are relations between human beings. How one connects with another unknown person in a minute and how the very next minute they are bitter enemies.

Does setbacks like these, makes one surround himself/herself in a shell. Technically speaking should one become Introvert?

It is so strange that once you are best of best friends and then over years something happens and then you have nothing to with that person. What makes this happen?

- Too much informality?

- Lack of communication?

- Taking another person for granted?

- Greed?

Well, there can be multiple reasons. But, human mind is most difficult to understand. Well I think title of this post will always remain a mystery.

Don't worry...

Don't worry

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be happy ...

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Life sucks!!! ;-)

Hai Mera Dil

Movie Name: Josh (2000)
Singer: Alka Yagnik, Udit Narayan
Music Director: Anu Malik
Lyrics: Sameer
Year: 2000
Producer: Venus
Director: Mansoor Khan
Actors: Aishwarya Rai, Chandrachur Singh, Priya Gill, Shah Rukh Khan, Sharad Kapoor
Theme: Love

Itna Pyaar Hai Yeh Pyaar, Pyaara Pyaara
Hua Hai Pehli Baar, Hota Hai Ek Baar
Phir Na Hoga....Yeh Dubaara...
Hai Mera Dil, Churake Le Gaya
Churane Wala, Mera Katil...
Hai Mera Dil, Churake Le Gayi,
Churane Wali, Meri Katil...
Yeh Dil Tujhpe Aaya Hai, Aate Aate
Darde Dil To Jaate Hai, Jaate Jaate
Jaage Hain, Soye Hain, Hum Dono Khoye Hain
Kaisi Tanhai Hai, Masti Si Chhaayi Hai
Yeh Mausam Hai, Pyaar Ke Kaabil
Hai Mera Dil, Churake Le Gaya
Churane Wala, Mera Katil...
Ab To Kaate Na Kate, Pyaasi Raate
Kuch Kuch Hota Hai Sun Ke, Aisi Baate
Bechaini Sehne De, Palko Mein Rehne De
Teri Baahon Mein Hai, Teri Raahon Mein Hai
Jaanejaana Meri Manzil
Hai Mera Dil, Churake Le Gayi,
Churane Wali, Meri Katil...
Hai Mera Dil, Churake Le Gaya
Churane Wala, Mera Katil...
Itna Pyaar Hai Yeh Pyaar, Pyaara Pyaara
Hua Hai Pehli Baar, Hota Hai Ek Baar
Phir Na Hoga....Yeh Dubaara...

Civilization(s)

We study about Egyptian Civilization, Mayas, Indus valley and many more. This makes me wonder:

What will our civilization will be called?

Are we one civiliaztion across the globe?

Are we multiple civilizations?

Will we be survived by future generations to be explored?

Can we be called a civilization? Are we civilized?

I am not worried about the first three questions. What makes me wonder is the 4th question. All the civilizations before us vanished. But, our civilization is the only one which has the potential to destroy the whole planet. And, we are doing that job pretty well.

If we consider all the world as one civilization then, we will be the most advanced and the largest civilization on earth, ever. But, will we be remembered, explored etc. Will there be people to explore us, afte we vanish?

Or more interesting, if we manage to ruin and destroy our planet and before that we colonise other planets in the solar system. What kind of civilization will we develop there?

I do not know where I want to go with this post. But these were just few of those random questions and ideas one gets :-)

Test (Blogger Beta with Updated Windows Live Writer)

Test

Classic Tale (Wants and needs)

Read the story

http://in.rediff.com/getahead/2005/sep/28don.htm

Jagger almost got it right with that fantastic song: You always want what you can't get

Ring-Ring sorry I am busy

As the economic boom continues and people are getting more and more ambitious day by day; if you sit back and take a bird’s eye view of the situation – one may see that things are not as they seem to be. The fact is people are getting busier day by day; they have no time to sit back and relax.
To be frank, today’s working youth has no time to; even attend phone calls (that are not work related) most of the time. A typical workday starts at 7:30-8AM from getting ready to work and reaching office by 9. This ends by 6-8PM depending upon the workload, plus the traveling distance. Rest of the time is spent either on internet, TV, relaxing, having food etc. This problem is further compounded if you are staying with your parents. Then there is absolutely no time et al. However, people staying independently still have some time to touchbase with friends etc. But those times are so late in the day that one may only touchbase with other people in similar situation like them (Other people who are living independently). Well this leads to only casual relationships or friends and no real relationships or real friends. This takes its toll in the long run in many ways. There is very little or no scope for having a friends circle outside your office colleagues.
Well this is one problem; there are more problems that are slowly cropping up – like health related issues, stress etc. We seriously need to look for more venues for improving our lives. Life is not just work, but many other things. Fun and relaxation does not mean partying out late, binge drinking, taking dope etc. These methods of fun and relaxation often lead to feeling more tired and stressed out than he/she was previously.

Conclusion: We must seriously try to pause, our fast-paced life and take out time to reflect upon what are we doing and where are we heading? How this all is affecting your personal life?
Discussing all the issues and providing solutions to these issues is out of scope for this post and may be this blog.

Nice Story - Every little counts! Especially for the one whose life gets affected by it.

This was FWDed to me by one of my friends:

A man was walking down the beach at sunset. As he walked along, he saw another man in the distance. He noticed this man kept leaning down, picking up something and throwing it out into the water, again and again. As he approached even closer, he noticed that the man was picking up starfish that had been washed up on the beach. He was throwing them back into the water, one by one.

Puzzled, he approached the man and said, "Good Evening. I was wondering what you are doing."
"I'm throwing these starfish back into the ocean. You see, it's low tide and all these starfish have been washed up onto the shore. If, I don't throw them back into the ocean, they'll die up here from lack of oxygen."

"But, there must be thousands of starfish on this beach. You can't possible get to all of them. And, don't you realize this is probably happening on hundreds of beaches all up and down this coast. Can't you see that you can't possibly make a difference?"
The man bent down and picked up yet another starfish, and threw it back into the ocean. With a smile he replied, "Made a difference to that one !!!"

Search for Perfection - The perfect job!

Our entire effort, from the day we enter the education system, is targeted towards getting that dream job. Though the dreams keep changing as we mature, the underlying principle remains the same – a job which we enjoy doing. 

When we start our first job the illusions of a ‘perfect job’ usually vanish within the first few months and we are forced to admit that there is no such thing as a ‘dream job’. For the fortunate few who are able to get that elusive ‘dream job’, stick with your current job and stop reading this article!

Normally all jobs have a positive as well as a negative aspect and if we are forced to define the concept of a ‘dream job’ it would be a job, with as few negatives to it as possible, which we enjoy doing. Read More ...

Jaago India Jaago - Wake Up!!!

Ques: How ridiculously inefficient our government is?
Answer: Farmers in UP who are dying of hunger, receive payments of ridiculous amounts such as 3Rs, 10Rs.

Even if officials had to do a scam and gobble up money sanctioned for the purpose, they should have thought about what are they doing, giving 3Rs, 10Rs, what were they thinking?

What we should do?
Stop giving salary to all bureaucracy in UP, Mulayam Singh and his cabinet. Then make them survive on 3Rs per year. Let us see how well they do?

I was recently reading an article on how citizens in west have so much faith in their governments. In India with such incidents happening everyday, how can we have similar faith in state bodies?

No wonder why, many corporate(s) get roads built on their own. People of a colony employ own security guards and get street lights installed at their own expense.

I write this many times and I write it again, for god sake, next time you go voting only vote for a person who is educated and has performed in the past. Use your brains India!!!
Only once in every 5 years use it for your own use. Do not give it for rent to get outsourced work.
Sheesh!!!

Maruti Alto

I think its time I should review some cars. I am going to start with Maruti Alto Vxi.

This is a good value for money car, well atleast it seems so when you are buying it and saving few bucks in comparison to Wagon R or Indica or Santro. The car is good for city driving, AC is effective but you keep banging your head, elbows etc etc because of lack of space. Especially if your are used to more spacious cars.

This car is for a young professional, and is a good first car. It is fuel efficient and low on maintenance.

Another, problem is 800CC engine. With AC on, on highways you can feel the lack of power. You may come across this even on steep slopes in city driving conditions. At speeds of 100Kmph it starts to start making funny noises.

Well from my experience a CBZ breezed by us on the highway, while we were struggling to keep speeds of 120Kmph. Even braking gives up on high speeds. On the turns especially, you feel the car is skidding. It lacks the necessary grip or weight to be a stable car.

However, even with all these drawbacks - power steering is really great. You can drive and take sharpest of the turn without any efforts (Good for parking in really small spaces). Then it makes up as a good first car, and is good for driving in city conditions where parking is scarce and traffic jams are frequent. This is your everyday use, common man car, so you should not have loads of expectations from this car. This car is placed in between Maruti 800 and the segment which starts from Wagon R onwards. Maruti 800 comes with 4 gears, while Alto is with 5 gears and more effective Air Conditioning.

If you have a budget of Maruti 800 and can stretch a little bit more, but cannot stretch till Santro, Wagon R or Indica. This is a good option. But then if you plan to travel a lot on highway and a speed freak like me, avoid Alto. Because it makes noise as if it is crying, when you push it over 100Kmph.

I will give this car
7/10 overall.
7/10 on value for money
4/10 on looks
8/10 on fuel efficiency

Life

When bad things happen in life, one feels bad. One is left with bitter feelings for the one who caused it. But, now I have started to like all those people who did bad to me. When something goes wrong or bad it leaves you more wiser and you get to learn a lot from it. Which, helps you improve your future.

But this is subjective - some people get bogged down from the bad things happening in life and some people try to gain as much as possible from it.

It is the way you look at things that changes everything. Who said medicine tastes good (except for homeopatheic medicines ;-) ).

When the going is tough, one might feel that he/she is a loser etc. It is easy to give it all up and just sit idle in those moments. But that is the time when you can sit down and prepare yourself for the battles to be WON ahead. Destiny is what you make of yourself, it is not what you let others make out of you. Maybe sometimes things are not in your control - but basically you should always have loads of patience, tolerance and above all you should always be pro active. Yes this all sounds easy, but very difficult to act upon.

This is life!!! - In my short simple way

Garuda Parking 10th Floor

View from Garuda Mall Parking 10th Floor.
This picture was taken longggggg time back, but I am so freaking lazy.
This picture was taken using Samsung D600 Mobile.

 

New Mac Donalds Outlet in Bangalore

Finally - there is a new Mac Donalds outlet on Brigade Road. I noticed it this Saturday while walking down brigade road.

So now we have 3 Mac Donalds Outlets in Bangalore.

1. Forum - Kormangala

2. Sigma Mall - Cunningham Road

3. Brigade Road

Height of Publicity - Modi Condoms

 I saw in NEWS today and cannot wait to share this with you all. Most probably the readers in India must have watched this on news.

Okay CM of Gujrat - Narinder Modi is now endorsing a product. The product is free condoms distributed by state government. And for the publicity he has got his pictures printed on them.

These packs are now termed as Modi condoms. Well it seems the day is not far when we may see some other politician on the packs of KS, Moods etc etc etc.

Well I leave it to your imagination what will happen - when you and your partner are all set to get into action and you pull out the condom pack - he he he ;-)

Current Indipop Scene

Case 1
Two chicks, one Firang and one is Indian-firang
One dances too much and one doesn't know how to dance

This yields to 2 music videos aired on music channels all day long, with some weird one hand movement and scary eyes. Both ending with, a sardar g getting down from a SUV or a MUV - who looks much smarter than both the ladies, by the way.

The Song in question: Kya Kehte Ho by Nic and Nicole

Case 2
One chick, this time a decent one with nice voice.
Doesn't dances as she most probably knows she cannot dance.

The song in question: Bolo na, Singer unknown

The Big Question
Who are these girls trying to speak to?
Two girls are asking kya kehte ho?
One girl is asking bolo na?

Whats wrong? I think all three girls cannot listen, or nobody is talking to them - poor girls.

Moral of the Story
Both songs combined are amazingly, 10 lines long.
So sad all these girls never got to go to school - their vocab is so poor.

Ok this is it, current Indipop scene. Some girls trying to sing, who never got to go to school.
Makes me so sad.

My humble request please don't make another song on trying to talk to somebody, even if you are trying to speak to aliens. If there are aliens, they will run away if you keep asking them to speak to you like this. Still if you cannot control, call my doggie he loves to talk.

Thank you
Thinking Thinker

To be or Not to Be - Part II

People say I have the right skills, people say I have the talent, people say I am capable of doing much more than what I am doing now, they also say I lead well.

I feel the same too, and I did take a plunge before; not once but twice; and had to come out of it for some reasons. First time all was well and I did well, second time I came out financially unhurt but mentally hurt.

Well today I am very much inspired by many people around me. But, I am in a dilemma as usual - to take the plunge once again or no. This time I will take a calculated risk and not play with all that I have got.

Well, but this time I will give it a good thought.

To be an Entrepreneur once again or not.

At 24 years one succesfull and still running venture and one which broke even financially in less than a year - and a 0 bank balance, I would say I have done well till now.

Very serious thought

Well seriously, it seems Indian soil does not suit me.

Teaching India loo manners???

There is a mall boom in Indian cities. This exposes us to world class facilities, shops etc. But, Indian public is still not prepared to absorb all these international standard facilities. Especially, the public toilets are something we are not used to. We are still a country where majority of population has NO access to toilets and those who do, still like to enjoy the pleasures of open skies.

Therefore, no matter how hard these malls try to keep their toilets clean. They always end up being dirty and stinking. Hence, public toilets are better avoided - until and unless in cases of dire emergencies.

On my recent visit to a public loo at a well known mall in Bangalore - I saw something, that I would like to share with you all. Well it seems somebody finally has taken an intiative to start, a toilet manners revolution. See the picture below -


This picture was taken at Garuda mall toilet. And, those of you who think too much - No I am not a weirdo taking pics with my mobile phone in toilets - so please no comments announcing me to be a maniac on a run - taking pics of toilets.

Happy Birthday

This post is to thank all the people who made my birthday one of the most memorable ones - by being physically present or through cyber space and telephone.

Thank you to all!!!

I did not take any pictures on this birthday, as I will remember this for a long long time to come. This is the first time that my birthday lasted 3 days :-)

 

Thanks to all, for making it such a special day.

My First Post - from Windows Live Writer (beta)

This is my first test post from windows live writer (beta).

Lets see how it comes out on the actual blog.

Time are changing; I feel I am older than what I think...

Click here...

I feel I am getting older, see how things change from class of 2002 to class of 2010. We always in every era are growing faster than the old time that has passed. This link confirms the trend ;-)

I already feel old - and this makes me feel older!!!
Booo hooo...

Everything Evolutionary!: A Conversation with Sorabh

Everything Evolutionary!: A Conversation with Sorabh

Check out the link - 'O' rated
Readers may be subjected to extreme emotions of violence.
Please read at your own risk

*O = office

Aimless Arrow...

I was thinking about aimless arrow - I do not know why?
Soon after some time I was intrigued by the idea of Aimless Arrow.

Why is aimless arrow, called aimless arrow?
Does it really have its own aim - that we call it aimless, when it does not hit the target?
The shooter should be called aimless, not the arrow as arrow never had an aim. It never went to hit a target; it was the shooter who shot it towards the aim.

Also, if arrow misses the aim taken by the shooter how do we know that, it was the target. May be it was the enviornment affecting the path of the arrow. As environment wanted to hit its own target with the arrow.

So in theory I beleive an arrow is never aimless.
Its when it does not meet our expectations we call it aimless arrow.

*there is more to this complicated thought, that I wanted to write in here. But, I was thinking about this few days back and I never cared to write it down. So this post is missing many valuable thoughts about aimless arrow. ;-)

To be or not to be...

Well life is a confusion - especially mine

When I was abroad, I wanted to come back - when I am here I want to go back there.
Can't I have a job profile - where I can balance my time between India and other countries.

What is it that I am looking for?

What is it we all keep looking for all our lives?
Are we looking for new challenges or peace and calm?

Well - I need to do some serious thinking now.
Whether I want to be outside India or 'in' India.

Pepsi - Strategic move, is it?

Ok its all over the news that Indra Nooyi is the new Pepsico Worldwide Head. First Indian woman professional. I am sure she has worked hard for the position and this post of mine means no offence to her or pepsi.

But, I am intrigued by the thought that, what else could be a better time than now to have an Indian Woman head Pepsico. To give pepsico and Indian face - a face of Indian woman. A caring honest face. Well, you all are thinking right.

When Colas and other aerated drinks are facing opposition in India, across all states for high pesticides level and their other harmful affects. This is the perfect time to bring an Indian to head the worldwide operations and show, the Indian face of the company.

I understand that there is lot of opposition to these - so called cool drinks in Europe, UK, US etc. too. But, India is one of the biggest markets; just for the fact - Indian middle class is equivalent to Middle class of all european contries combined. Although Indian middle class does not have same spending power - but this is future planning, to capture one of the biggest markets.

This is just another angle in response to the things happening around, as I tend to think a lot. So I will repeat again that this post is not to defame a company or offend Indra Nooyi - who has done Indians proud and showed what Indian women are capable of.

My Values Profile

***Your Values Profile***
Loyalty:
You value loyalty a fair amount.You're loyal to your friends... to a point.But if they cross you, you will reconsider your loyalties.Staying true to others is important to you, but you also stay true to yourself.
Honesty:
You don't really value honesty.You do value getting your way, no matter what.And if a little lying is required to do that, no problem.A few white lies never hurt anyone (at least, that's what you tell yourself!)
Generosity:
You value generosity a fair amount.You are all about giving, as long as there's some give and take.Supportive and kind, you don't mind helping out a friend in need.But you know when you've given too much. You have no problem saying "no"!
Humility:
You value humility a fair amount.You tend to be an easy going, humble person.But occasionally your ego takes over.You have a slight competitive streak - and the need to be the best.
Tolerance:
You value tolerance highly.Not only do you enjoy the company of those very different from you...You do all that you can to seek it out interesting and unique friends.You think there are many truths in life, and you're open to many of them.

The Five Factor Values Testhttp://www.blogthings.com/thefivefactorvaluestest/

I will be back...

Sorry guys after my last post I had been a bit busy - shifted to a new place and first morning a theft was attempted with me being in the house, early morning at 6:30AM.

So I am a bit busy with Police and stuff, job and settling in.
Police is baffled as I live in a very secure area - in neighbourhood of ex chief justice, ex SP (police), ex CM and currently serving senior govt. officials.

So I will be back in some time!!!

Cheerios

Need to make post on...

Okei since I forget so many times about the posts I wanted to make - but did not feel like it.
I am making a log of upcoming posts (I am silly, I know) -

1. Being single a bliss
2. Aimless arrow

Long Time...

Finally after some requests, pestring etc. I am posting this blog.
During this long gap, I thought about many things and wanted to post. But, I did not post - many times because of lack of time and many times it went into my diary. I think I don't want to post about those things and hold on to them for the time being.

I especially wanted to make a post on 8th of August, 2006 - as that day has lot of special meaning for me. But, that is in my diary and I will only post it, may be many years from now. If I continue to blog till then.

Ok, first and foremost my friend and guide Mr. Azahar has been travelling a lot and organizing his thoughts - so please visit his blog (link is on right hand side of your screen), he has some good pictures of Canada. Well organized thoughts is what I am not convinced of, but certainly Canada is a beautiful country.

Secondly, I am not in love - it was just a small spark, false alarm!!!

Rest, my life is in a turmoil as always; I think I should get used it by now.

What, else - I will post about more things soon.
Till then Ciao!!!

Past is catching up

Well its happening again.
It always happens in cycles (don't think too much) I am talking about when you start reconnecting with people from past, and it happens and happens and happens and then it stops again. Past two weeks had been very very hectic - parents meeting there friends from college (never met in last 30years plus); me meeting my old crush, friends, best friends etc. and all seem to come at once, one after another.

Makes me wonder!!!
Something more to think about - is our life pre-programmed???

Well, I am still very irritated at our Government controlling our surfing choices on the internet.

And yes, I think I should share this with all of you - Finally after 2 years (approx.) I think I am in LOVE or crush or I don't know. Well at least I am thinking about it, I thought it will never happen again in my life and I was happy about it. Though it is back, I now feel sad - I was happy to be not in love. Love brings so much pain.

Well that is it for today.

-Thinking Thinker

Bad Managers - Good Managers

Now that I had been working for 3 years and even tried my hand at setting up my own enterprise, here is my take on BAD MANAGERS. A manager can single handedly create a team that is 200% productive or a team that just piggy back on other teams. During these 3 years I had chance to come across managers from different walks of life and different parts of the world.

I came across managers who would walk into office and everybody is tense. Forcing, pushing everybody to work harder. This made the deadlines being met, but staff learning curve was flat and attrition very high.

Then there were managers, who were missed by the team - the rare breed. Managers who could brighten up the dullest moment with their high energy level and keen interest in their work. These managers were the best, among the managers I came across. Under them whole team functioned as a single unit rather than fragmented groups. Innovation and creativity was at its peak and all the deadlines were met and nobody was tense – everything flowed smoothly. Nobody left the team in last 5 years. Well these types of managers are difficult to find.

Some Dos:
1. Connect with your staff and understand if they need to be pushed or they are go-getters.
2. Do not stereotype and get involved in office gossip.
3. Keep your distance while connecting with the staff. Everybody should know that you are the

boss.
4. Set a career path for every employee and convey this to them.
5. Keep your team updated with latest information.
6. Accept inputs from the team.
7. Give chance to lead and innovate.
8. Lead by example and set new standards for benchmarking with own efforts. This will also

lead to respect and not FEAR.
9. Let go off the staff happily if they are looking for change. I can be 100% sure that in future

they will come back to the company if they had real good time working there.

Don'ts
1. Do not shout at your team members.

Well I will add to this list more things as and when I come across them.

-Thinking Thinker

Ok here is answer to all you peeps were looking for...

I noticed that I am getting lots of hits on my blog for - people searching for:

- What is LPO?
- What is KPO?
- LPO and KPOs in Gurgaon.

LPO = Legal Process Outsourcing
KPO = Knowledge Process Outsourcing

I will try to explain whatever I can with my limited knowledge.
KPO are on the higher end of BPOs, we have had in previous decade and still mushrooming everywhere. In KPO you can expect do some knowledge intensive work like Business Research, Market Research, Patents, Contract Drafting etc.

LPOs are a narrower branch of KPO concentrating mostly on outsourced legal work from USA where litigation costs are very high due to higher lawyer salaries. LPOs are soon going to see lots of expansion as more and more canadian law firms are also aiming to outsource their work

I am not going to go into in-depth details. But, certainly this industry is sunshine industry and is expanding rapidly. You can expect to shine pretty soon in these companies; and salaries are good in LPOs/KPOs. In LPOs however, they have so called flat-organisation structure, with very little or no hierarchy levels. Few LPO/KPO in Gurgaon and NCR area worth mentioning are:

1. EValueServe
2. Intellevate
3. Greenfield
4. Inductis (I beleive it will fall under KPO with analysis and management consulting work they
are doing)

There are few more coming up very soon. The names I have mentioned are the few big wigs in this segment. Also, beware of some BPOs projecting themselves as KPOs and attracting talent. I will post some more as I have collected lots of information on this segment. Go through the blog for more posts I made on KPOs and LPOs.

Till then all the best looking for your next job in KPOs.

Cheerios
Thinking Thinker

State of Democracy in India

Is India a true democracy?
Our country India is normally labeled as world largest democracy, but is it really a democracy?

Well, after watching current trends in the country I am not convinced. I am not convinced that I am in a democracy. It seems more like a communist state – where politicians, bureaucrats, people who have power and money rule; the way they feel like. They make, amend laws according to what they feel is right. Without paying heed to common man’s need. Well, these people are not answerable to anybody – for the records.

See the latest trend, medical students and doctors protesting for quota reservation and the new cause to get ramadoss back. But, is government paying any attention to them. No, government is just going to do what it feels like.

Demolition drive in Delhi – Government did what it felt like. It is not citizens fault that they built commercial complexes on residential lands. Its government fault to let it happen, let politicians get away with whatever way they wanted to use land, not providing enough commercial zones to meet the needs of a growing city.

I feel on issues like quota etc there should be referendum where people can vote – and voice there opinion. There n number of issues on which you can go and on and there is nobody to listen to them and resolve them.

When Politicians/Government officials are not answerable to public, can we really call India a Democracy?

Democracy means – Transparency and Accountability.

I feel I have no voice in my own country – as my opinion does not matter.

Is Networking a Career Must or Overrated? Ten Monster Members' Stories -

Is Networking a Career Must or Overrated? Ten Monster Members' Stories -

Well this not much of text; you may want on networking for career enhancement, but still something is there. Networking is very important for career enhancement, but it cannot be sole means to climbing that corporate ladder.

Cheerios

Hype Hype and more Hype everywhere

'Hype' is back on my blog; my previous post on Hype can be found on SDLC Blog (Another blog, which I write).

BSE Sensex is hovering in 9000s now. The correction as predicted has come, it was something that was bound to happen. People who invested in stock markets needed returns and it was the right time to sell. This same correction came in Software and BPO industry few years back and now these industries are stronger and more stable than ever. The reason for the bubble was 'Hype' - we all love hype isn't it?

There is similar hype now days in real estate markets. It is amazing how 2 bedroom flats are being sold for 40-50lacs; well beyond the reach of majority of middle classes. There is a lot of hype in the market and it can be seen easily. There are more flats and houses ready than there are any takers. Builders spread false rumours to attract premium and clients. The fact is, if you go back to same builder a month after - he will show you same flats. According, to some latest surveys (I can't get hold of sources to verify the facts) there is more supply than demand in real estate market. Sooner or later correction will set in real estate market as well. Correction in markets is a natural phenomenon. It can be seen in real life too, mountains are flattened, low lying areas filled due to earthquakes or silt deposited by rivers etc.

Correction should not be considered negative; rather it is something positive which stabilises the market. This is the time when you see the real picture - Boys separated from men. The winners or the companies which are strong will stand tall in times of correction too. While, the companies which were unnecessarily attracting attention and taking advantage of the hype will die. It can be termed as natural selection of industry.

Now, I have given more hype to Hype and this should end here.

-Thinking Thinker

Wants, Needs and Life

What you want in life, is what you won't get
What you don't want in life, is what you will get

As one of my friends say, life takes care of your needs. But, it does not take care of your wants. This makes sense does it?

Most of us remain unhappy throughout our lives, trying to fulfil our wants. We do not understand that we can be happy as our needs are fulfilled. But, then - is it okay to be content with our needs being met? What if everybody in this world was content, where will human race then stand in terms of progress and development?

Why do we need to Progress?
Bigger question - What is progress?

This puts us back in the circle; vicious circle of our wants and needs. There is a very thin line between wants and needs. As we move on with our lives slowly our wants becomes our needs, this leads us to development, progress, innovation and inventions. Then again there is a question - what is the need for all this progress? As we can be happy without it too.

I believe life should be kept as simple as possible, but that is very hard to achieve in this world of materialism.

THINK THINK AND KEEP THINKING
CIAO

SOS Pub, Garuda Mall, Bangalore

SOS PUB

The name is right, the location is right, the decor is right, drinks are right, the music is right, staff is helpful and courteous, seating is relaxing and proper - but, BANG the music is too loud. You cannot even make yourself heard to your mate, even if you shout in their ears.

Yes it’s good to have state of art speakers, with high wattage but please low down the volume in seating areas. I understand that there is separate area of seating too; but then with this loud music there is no use putting tables and bar near to dance floor.

A lazy Saturday afternoon, house full for almost all movies at INOX. I relaxed at SOS Pub when my colleague joined me and then I realised how loud the music was (we had hard time even placing our order to the waiter).

Well but there was a nice surprise in the end and it was worth sitting there to finish the drinks. In the end DJ or DJs friend, I am not sure turned out to be a RAPPER and we had a live performance with the entire crowd standing and dancing. It was a total surprise to be frank the performance was impressive WOW!!!

Well after such a loud music and few beers down, I was in not in a mood to take pics. But, will try taking some pics some other time.

Have fun till then!!!

GlobalVoicesOnline

Global Voices Online Blog Archive Twas an action-packed week for Indian bloggers: financial meltdown, reservation quota and the Da Vinci Code controversy etc. etc.

Check out the article. It mentions thinking thinkers think tank in the end!!!

Bombay Blues, Central Mall, Bangalore

@ Central Mall, Bangalore

Nothing much to write about this restaurant.

Good place if you want to sit outside and have dinner/lunch. The outside balcony is not a no-smoking zone so if you are a non-smoker than you can have a seat indoors. The food is good, the crowd is mixed (families, youngsters etc.). Service again is poor here and the food plates/bowls are not filled regularly during buffet lunch. You may see empty bowls, which is very disappointing :-D .

Bombay Blues - Average restaurant which is overly priced.To be frank - I have yet to come across a restaurant in bangalore where service is good and seating is proper. At most of the restaurants either table is high or sofa is low or distance between table and sofa is not right. I really hate a restaurant if the seating is not proper.

Three Quarter Chinese, Church Street, Bangalore

Decor at Three Quarter Chinese

Menu at Three Chinese Quarters

Three chinese quarters is situated on Church Street next to Brigade road. If you are coming from MG Road turn right from Sapphire and after NASA you will see Amoeba and there on the ground floor we have Three Quarter Chinese.

Coming back to the restaurant. Restaurant is nicely done, I don't know how to describe the decor but it is modern. There is a small black island on the entry with small candles on the table, which is a cool place to sit and has black leather sofas. Rest is the general sitting area and there is a bar. Restaurant is huge inside and so is the waiting time. You can expect minimum waiting of 30 minutes on the weekends.

The staff is english speaking and courteous; but service is poor in terms of time taken. You have to wait for the food to arrive, in the meantime you can easily forget what you ordered ;-). But, the food is delicious and well presented. You can order north-Indian or Chinese or have a combination of both.

Menu is not rectangular as you expect but a semi-circle; as you can see in the picture. The dining experience is formal. So, if you want to take your boss or that special someone for dinner or lunch, this is the place to be. But with so many people eating and chatting and music. The place can get very very noisy. So if you are a person who likes to eat in peace and calm surroundings you should avoid this place.

The prices are slightly above normal and a meal for two comes normally at INR 600.00 but, the quantities are large; so be careful while ordering multiple dishes.

Patel's Inn, RT Nagar

This place is like a hidden jewel.
Even though it is located at a very unique/isolated location; the place is nice and calm and a welcome change for RT Nagar's young crowd. There is no cafe for youngsters to hangout in RT Nagar. This place is not very fancy, but instead feels like a garage or a hanger.

Well there is a bigger surprise at Patel's inn.

A go KARTING track.
Yes a GO-Karting track/Basketball court etc etc. Next to aptts called 'White House' in the interiors of RT nagar there is a cafe with a GO-Karting track. I really love the place as you can go their and sit for hours - read magazine/sip a cup of cold or hot coffe/have a sandwich/race on the track. Also, the place is very nominal and not very expensive.

Drawback - Young crowd is sometimes very young.
;-)

I would give Patel's Inn 6/10
A must visit.

Infinitea, Cunnigham Road (Bangalore)

Infinitea is has a long list of various exotic teas and coffee.
The blue curaco tastes like blue curaco and not like a Squash.

You have option to order in a mug or in a glass and the Mugs are real huge.
This must be of special intrest for the coffe/tea addicts. The crowd is not teeny boppers or wanna bes or college people. But most of the crowd is sophistacted and intellect types.

The decor is Latin and has two floors. The upper floor is like balcony (non-smoking zone) overlooking the lower floor and entrance.

Prices are nominal cosidering the quantity and quality.
The service is quick, efficient and professional.

Cunnigham Road, Bangalore

Cunningham Road Bangalore is a nice place and quiter than busy MG/Brigade/Commerical street. It is a nice cool place to hangout on weekend not to mention it is a one way street. The reason I mention this is because while crossing the the road you have to look on only one side for the traffic; which I swear is a boon, considering Bangalore traffic.

The places to visit are Cafe Coffee Day/Barista/InfiniTea/Pizza Hut/Sigma Mall/Mac Donalds. There are few more and I will write more about them as I visit them.

Sigma mall houses all the major brands and is quiter than Garuda mall and The Central Mall.
During the weekends while all the malls are crowded and you just need to hangout and shop in peace; Sigma mall is the place to be.

Piyush Midha

I entered the office in the morning and as I signed on to yahoo.
My long time school friend typed Hi and I replied casually to it as always.

Little did I knew that he was about to give me a sad news. The news, that one of our colleagues Piyush Midha expired. Last I spoke to Piyush was few months back and he said he was recovering well and was hopeful and enthusiastic, nowhere I could sense that this would happen so soon and at such a young age.

He was a good friend during school. I still remember copying maths homework in the morning from him. As he used to always finish his work on time. The laugh and jokes we used to have on the last benches with Satija pitching in with his wisecracks.

Well, suddenly all those memories came back rushing and I froze in my seat for a while unable to reply back to my friend on yahoo. I thought why did this happen and he was recovering; this can't be true. Slowly the mails started pouring in on yahoo groups and it further confirmed that indeed this has happened.

Piyush was a very nice guy and good friend although we lost touch after school; but occasioanly we chatted or exchanged emails. He put up a brave fight against cancer.

This was a very sad and shocking news.

May his soul rest in peace.
He may not be with us any longer, but the memories and good times we shared will keep his memories alive in our hearts.

Mac Aloo Tikki and Veggie Burger

Finally my taste buds are not crying loud any longer.

I had aloo tikki burger with cheese and veggie burger with cheese = some n(thousands) calories.
But sometimes I think it fine. I am happy.

I wonder how these small things make me happy :-D
Come on its just an aloo tikki burger.

Bon apettite' (whatever way you spell it).

Mac Donald

Ok this blog is turning into Mac Donald obessesive blog.
But, I found one Mac Donald close to my place.

So the count goes to three.
Well it is strange as to how people, living here for 20 years or so are not aware of such a thing :- D (Just kidding; this is not to offend anybody).

In any case, I will have my aloo tikki burger very soon!!!
Yes, very very soon...


Bangalore is cool fun place to be. Minus the rowdy gangs of New Delhi etc.
However, the city is not deisgned to handle the number of people suddenly coming to bangalore.

I have one complaint from Bangalore

The one complaint is ----

There are only 2 macDonalds in Blore...
I repeat only 2...

I love Aloo tikki burger with CHEEESEEEeee!!!

Sacrifice today for better tommorow...

Many people say, "I am sacrificing my present for better tommorow".
But is it essential to sacrifice your happiness, to achieve something for tommorow?

How, can that make one happy?
I wonder... if you are already happy - you sacrifice your today to be happier tommorow?

I am also doing the same, sacrificing my present for better tommorow.
But, is there an end to achieveing that better tommorow?
Is this all about being in the 'rat race'? How can one separate oneself from this rat race? and be somebody who he/she really is?

I wonder!!!

Wow... this is the vicious circle of life; I beleive!!! and I am part of it knowingly or unknowingly.

Hmmm... I wonder again... why do I think so much???
:-D

I find my life very unusual, no aim, no aspirations. But, I still keep moving.
Trying to keep up and be best at whatever I do.
Am I just a machine? Following instructions.

Life, is a wonderful thing.
Something to experience, enjoy, create, see, admire...
Then why do we run for something(s) which have no end.
Given a chance I would love to explore myself
No!!!
Not when given a chance, I will have to create that chance.

Life... I would love to know about life and myself.
My true potential.
The 'real' me.

ITworld.com - Skills in Demand

ITworld.com - Skills in Demand

Okei it still seems VB is still in demand.

But it does not pay well, as compared to software professionals in JAVA, .NET and XML.

Young IT Pro...

There is overdemand for IT professionals in India.
Many of us land up with multiple job offers.
Everything is blamed on us, that we are flicker minded and can't make a decision.
All the newspapers and magazines are lined up with articles on how youngsters switch jobs etc etc.; and are blamed for higher attrition rates. As if there is no fault of HR Deptt.

Its not always our fault.
For example XYZ got recruited by firm A, firm B wanted to recruit XYZ as well.
They know XYZ have joined firm A.
Still firm B tries to lure XYZ - by paying for travel, rent advance, arranging accomodation, 30% increase etc etc.

Well, who is spoling us?
It is very clear!!!
Young professionals starting their careers, should not be blamed for it.
It is the management and HR to be blamed!!!
Why do young professionals get blamed for attrition, while HRs of respective firms are to be blamed for it.
They do the poaching, not us ;-)

I still beleive accepting multiple offer letters is a bad thing. It is not-Ethical.
If you have mutiple offers, either make up your mind on the spot.
OR
Tell them, ok guys you have made the offer and I need sometime to think over it.
If you want to wait for 1-2 days fine, else it is ok with me.

Before blaming others, we should first look at our faults.
But, nobody is perfect - how contradicting.

Cheerios

Go fast... Go Slow...

I do not understand, with what speed to move; Fast - Learning all I can OR Slow - Taking my own time. Well, this is what I never understood.

When I go slow, I am asked to go fast.
If I go Fast, I am asked to go slow.

Something missing...

Do not know why... but I still feel something is missing in life...!!!
Can't find what it is, but something is missing.

What I want from life?
Where do I want to go?
I am not sure!!!

Bangalore... Bangalore... Bangalore

Well it has been long since I posted, well I was taking time settling in new Enviorns.

Ok Bangalore is crowded and loads of traffic and very expensive.
Personally, I do not find it different from Gurgaon. Except for the fact that Bangalore has lot more educated-decent people.

Traffic Problem - Going to office takes 45 mins!!!
Come on... isn't that a norm in Delhi? Mumbai? Calcutta?
Well, some people just need things to complain.

I am not saying bangalore is all goddy-goody but, its no different from any other metro.
Allrite!!!

Cheers ;-)

Trip to Mathura..

These pics were taken while coming back from Mathura.

A dhaba on the way back...

Where do we go?
A sign board and lanes which nobody follows in India ;-)

No Cows?

Pics were taken from Samsung D500

 

Leaving Delhi...

I am sad and sentimental now sob sob sob...
I thought when I landed in December that I have come for good, but didn't knew that, it will be few months before I move again.

Well moving to new place doesn't sadden me much. But, what saddens me is that there are few people or I would say a person who would just forget me once I move out from here.
Haha don't think that I am in love etc.; but, yes I would like em to remember me or be within commutable distance.

Its a small world ;-) and I really hope that it is true.


Herez three cheers to a new city and to a new start!!!

...... Expectations... Life...

This is a quote from the trailors of one of the movies, I like it very much. Since it has such a deep, underlying meaning to it. I don't remeber it exactly but it goes something like this -

Zindagi se mujhe jyada umeed nahin, par lagta hai zindagi ko hi mujhse jyada umeedein hai.

I don't have many expectations from life, but it seems that life has too many expectations from me...

Sigh... I can go on thinking about these lines forever. These lines have deep meaning about which you can keep thinking and thinking; and keep going deeper and deeper.

Infosys to hire 25,000 techies by 2007- The Economic Times

Infosys to hire 25,000 techies by 2007- The Economic Times

Well I do not know about others, but I am always very sceptical of growth of IT businesses in India. Especially the way it is growing, hiring 25,000 pros in one year, Another company hiring 4000 pros in one year, etc.

The question that comes to my mind is, for how long can we sustain this growth?
Reasons for this growth in IT are:
1. Cost effectiveness
2. Skilled manpower
3. Largest English Speaking population.

Well the reasons mentioned above can easily be attained by any other country. Billing rates for our software programmers are, at all time low of around US$ 10.00 to US$ 15.00 per hour. To add to the woes, there is always increasing pressure to bring down the costs, further!

Well going by US$ 10.00 per hour, it is a salary of 8.5 lacs per annum (My maths is very poor). Which is becoming pretty much standard for senior software programmers.

The answer to the problem, as answered by many people is to improve quality, provide expertise in the area etc etc. Well, except for the big names in the business; most business run for the cheapest options available. And, I think no matter what we provide in services; until and unless its cheap it is going to be a difficult job to attract business.

BPO minds are already trying to cash in on LPOs and KPOs by moving higher up the value chain - and I can see in the future that Indian companies would be outsourcing jobs to cheaper countries. We are already doing that in many ways.

I am waiting to see the next big thing to hit Indian software market, and making us move higher up in the value chain. We are already witnessing some big names in research setting up shop in India. We need to wait and watch, that this trend continues.

Except for this what worries me more is, how the world economy is dependent on US economy. What happens when we come face to face with US Economy. Where do we hunt for business? Will, the Indian economy able to provide jobs to so many software pros and call centre execs?

This scenario is going to be very exciting. But makes, me shiver if we all fall into traps of poverty/recession/huge debts. This leads us to another topic as to why our generation needs to learn to save and not live on loans. Well I will discuss this in my next post.

-Thinking thinker

Something very strange

Ok!!!
This gives me creeps.
Today we went to Brindavan or Vrindavan near Mathura.
Just to let you all know, I have never been to Mathura or Vrindavan in my entire life.

The creepy part -
Somehow I knew the road I had to follow and the turns to take and the villages/towns that will come on the way.

I had a creepy feeling that I had been there and knew all the ways in Vrindavan, where to go etc etc.

Okay, now I have something to think over and over and over and over.

Every dog has its day... ;-)

Now I dunno if I am moving to Bangalore - Mumbai - Gurgaon.
Hahaha I am swamped with requests again - as usual.

Well whatever choice I make; has to be the right one - as I cannot go wrong this time.

Anyways, I am enjoying the attention I am getting at the moment.

My choice would be Gurgaon - as it is near to home
Mumbai and Bangalore - for fun crowd and better night life.

Hmmm... makes me think!!!

Life has its own ways...

Wow finally I am travelling to Bangalore after 11 years...

Hehehe my first visit will be to Brigade Road - Sapphire Toy Shop
Used to be my favorite haunt for toys - GIJOE, Skate Boards, Tennis Rackets etc etc etc.

I am being told Bangalore is not as it used to be.
So let us see.

Will post pics of the trip soon.

Cheers

Help me wid the captions

These are few pics I took with by Samsung D500 to satisfy my creative urges. I am still looking for some captions, I can give to these pics.

Thanks!!!

This is a thank you post for a friend - to provide me with timely, unbiased and informative advise/comments; whenever required.

Why Why and Why?

Why, approx after 60 years of independence. Political bigwigs (political as*h***s) of our country, have to introduce not 30... not 40... but 49.5% reservation for OBCs?

Why?

I have nothing against OBCs but for higher education there should not be any reservations, BUT SCHOLARSHIPS? Hello!!!???!!! is anybody listening in the PARLIAMENT?

Do we have any brains, in the parliament or just vote counting machines?
Hellloooo!!! Please wake up???!!!???

Anyways!!!
We are heading for a big diaster if it goes through.
Well the memories of anti-MANDAL commission are still fresh in my mind. We were in IIT-D in those days. IIT - D and JNU were the main hubs for the protests in south delhi againts mandal commission. I was pretty young at that time, and used to ask bhaiya and didis studying in IIT wht they were doing?

I never understood the reason for the protests then. But we all used to get cool headbands and wristbands and flags with slogans. Well, the explanation given to us was - that it is for country's good. It was pretty sad on the day when some student burnt himself for the cause and died.

Hope history does not repeat itself.

God bless India!!!

Extreme Programming: A Gentle Introduction.

Extreme Programming: A Gentle Introduction.

Read the article linked above. Is it only me or the process is really haphazardly structured?

Well, only few of the software development methodologies concentrate on real-life software development - like Extereme Programming or I am really DUMB. All the software development methodologies, taught to us in classroom seemed unfit for real life scenarios.

I have my doubts about Extreme Programming as it involves lots of involvement from Client Side, which, according to my personal experiences, is very rare. Well, all the SDLC will go on fine if we have co-operating customers. :-D

Large KPO based in Gurgaon

One of the largest KPOs in Gurgaon = Big SNOB firm, wid designer pecks.
Watch out!!!

Some of you already know, what I am talking about!!!

My recent trip - III

Food Yummy!!! Dal Makhani and Tandoori Roti!!!
Sorry nothing left for you all!!!

 

My Recent Trip - II

Shot taken near Nangal Dam


Buri Nazar Waale Tera Moonh Kala: Truck


Pic of: Anantpur Sahib (Couldn't take better pic as we were moving real fast)


Yoo Hoo: Chandigarh

My recent trip!!!

Random shot: fields in Punjab!!!


Random Shot: Trees in Punjab


Treelined Highway Ambala -> Chandigarh
Man I feel so much at home in Punjab, I can't describe the feeling


See how we are driving in middle of the highway at 120kmph!!!
Wow I LOVE INDIA!!!

Wow!!! This describes me so well...

Dear ThinkingThinker,Here is your horoscopefor Sunday, April 2:
You need someone to lean on -- and fortunately, you've got plenty of options. Just because you're used to giving help doesn't mean you can't ask for it. It's tough to remember that you don't have to go it alone, but try.

;-)
hahahaha

When will things be normal again...

God!!!
Why is everything in life going from smooth to a roller coaster ride (Without any ups, just down, down and down) !!! I do not understand, a sudden tide of everything bad has to come my way in as little as 3 months; I am anxious for what may be coming ahead? More bad?

Whoa!!!

I have been a lone fighter. Always fighting alone; I have always stood alone through many struggles!!! But, this time things are getting out of my hand, it is seemingly getting difficult to stand tall.

But, I beleive in myself and will fight back through this as well, as I always do
Hope god gives me the energy to fight this one too.

Amen

Check it out for a career in LPO

BIG money in this high end BPO!

The next big thing to hit Indian economy - LPO (legal process outsourcing). Well if you want a career in these so called LPOs, go through this article. This article very clearly defines the skillsets required, how to apply and the companies in the domain at the moment.

It misses out on two companies worth the mention:
1. EvalueServe - Gurgaon
2. WNS Global - Gurgaon

Watch out this space for more.

CommonWealth Games 2010 : New Delhi

Why do we need some reason to do work here in India?

As a developing economy progressing at 8% every year and geared for growth at the rates of 9-10% per annum. India is one of the fastest growing economies. Why can't we, be proactive about how our cities look, how the system is run?
Or
Are we so intelligent and busy in solving world problems in our BPOs/KPOs/LPOs/Software Development/Clinical Research etc. that we have no time to tend to ourselves? The real problem(s) that India faces.

I wonder why does it take a Commonwealth or Asiad games for us to have a Metro/a new suspension bridge at Wazirabad/Closing shops in residential areas/curbing rampant corruption?

How, come suddenly government has, so many funds from no funds?

These are few questions I want answers to, infact we all need answers to.

Slightly offtopic:
As I have discussed time and again in my blog that common man will have to take all these matters in their hands and not leave it to our politicians to solve. Politicians have been given enough chance (mind you more than 50 years) and they have failed miserably time and again.

I loved it the way middle class of India is enlightened and pushed the issue for Jessica Lal, Another lady who died in Lucknow (Shot at point blank range while making a stand against eve-teasers), people breaking rioting banks when 18,000 tickets for England Vs India ODI go up for sale in half hour from 4 counters?

Obviously these tickets are being hoarded by our Bureaucrats and Politicians.

We need to fight back against these injustice(s) we face everyday.

Its only the common man/the middle class who can fight back with unity.
Who have shown the will to develop, come out of poverty and put India on the path to being a super power; even in the adverse conditions set by our Ministers.

Way to go India and 3 cheers for the people of India (Politicians and Ministers excluded)!!!
;-)

Sometimes life sucks big time ;-)

LOL... man some of you must have realised this earlier but life SUCKS big time - sometimes.

Well it depends how you enjoy this sucking (no pun intended).

- Thinking Thinker

I should buy this soon or I will... I will...

I want to buy this very very soon!!! I had been longest in love with this... hahaha...
Seriously...

TRANSMISSION
2.0 litre 4 cylinder, 90Ps, Diesel Turbo IntercooledMax speed 96mph / 154kpmManual TransmissionBorg Warner Electrical Transfer box with 3-way selector switch giving 4x2 high ratio, 4x4 high ratio and 4x4 low ratio

SUSPENSION
Front double wishbone type with torsion bar springsRear coil spring type 5 Link suspensionShock Absorber Hydraulic double-acting telescopic type at front & rearAnti-roll bar both front and rear.

WHEELS & TYRES
Stylish, 5 spoke alloy wheels are fitted as standardWheel =6.0J X 15" alloy rimsTyres 235/ 75 R15

I know it is not great, but still impressive for me.

Well said : Westernisation Vs Indian Values

Read this article

This article puts things in right prespective. This is something I have always tried to pass on to my friends; who are stuck somewhere between westernization and indian values.

It is true that times have changed and one needs to adapt, but the point as argued in the article is that - we should never forget our roots.

According to some people this is hypocrisy - double standards. But that is a very narrow scope to see this topic. Sticking to age old superstitions and working on cutting edge technology and calling ourselves liberal is hypocrisy. But, when we say stick to our values and adapt to changes outside; it does not mean hypocrisy. It simply means for example, we as Indians have good family values, have a spiritual bent of mind. These values should not be dropped off for the sake of liberalisation or modernization. However, these should be carried over to modern world as value/core of your functioning. This is what sets us apart from the rest of the world; if we leave them behind we have no identity of our own.

In the end it is your choice what you want to be.

Malamaal Weekly

Got a chance to watch this movie over the weekend. Well as suspected turned out to be a laugh riot OR I would like to say in my words @##$%^@ hilarious!!! Set in rural India explores how peoples value changes due to greed. This aspect of human nature has been shown as a comedy.

Nice, easy going movie with no single character leading the movie.

Moral of the story: Money makes people behave differently.

Overall: 6/10

Go watch it!!!

What has life come to and where will it go...

I sometimes ask this question... where will I go from here?
What will become of me?

If we all have to become what we all are destined to become; why do we worry about future?

Like a ship I sail, in the direction of wind and tide; still trying to make my own way.
I struggle, I fight, I float... but still; I sink one day!!!

But, when I sink...
I will be remembered for
My Glory...
My Struggle... 

Old snaps

Well I was going through old time snaps I had on my PC. Downloaded Picasa to arrange them, and found this pic.

This is a mall in city centre @ bristol. Xmas time when everything is so beautifully decorated.

Hmmm... memories...

No Place for good people

It seems god does not like good people... as good people are always made to suffer by God!!!
Everyday I see god makes people who do bad stronger and stronger and stronger day by day; is their any justice in the world???

Well I think NO, certainly not in todays time.
Good people always lose and suffer.

I hope god awakens soon and good people get justice and appreciation for what they do.

Indian Not just Service Providers

Indian companies should concentrate on product creation; rather than being only service providers. It seems most of the IT/Software Firms especially, the upcoming KPO sector aims at providing services only.

If India has to stand in world market or become an economic superpower Indian companies will have to lead the market rather than just providing services. Being a service provider will provide a short term standing and will make Indian companies depend on others. Hence, the actual power/strength will not remain with them. They should rather aim to become market leaders, by concentrating on product development.

At the moment what I see is, most of the so called Indian bigwigs do not control the market, they struggle to earn foreign exchange. It is more like other economies/companies are the masters with the bone and these companies are the dog; waiting for the bone to be thrown at them. With strong determination, talent and right strategies these roles can be reversed; putting Indian companies in the real limelight.

Well how the pick up line of this week originated

Azhar: imagine this as ur pickup line " u kno baby a face recognition software says i look like 50 cents"

well guess how did this happen...
LOL...



Few comments
sweet_adi_83: though u do luk like some foreigner
gaurav malhotra: aur tabiat shabhit thik hai na??

XANSA and a MALL in NOIDA

This is a snap I took from my mobile of a Mall in NOIDA. Well I noticed this later but this snap, co-incidentally has a banner of XANSA. The main reason I took this picture was to show the crowd that was there in the MALL.

Off topic talks
On an another note I wonder, how much these IT companies/BPOs are responsible for mushrooming malls (=booming economy/liberalisation). Also, this is the first time I am seeing an advertisment of a firm servicing business clients only (B2B). They don't market any product for general consumers. Then why advertise in a mall?

Well this is what I know of XANSA. So I do not understand why are they advertising? May be to attract talent for their BPO/Software Operations.

Read

Well I came across these articles surfing for SEO Tips and Tricks.

I did not read all the articles, just the first one and it seems nice.
May be because I need some boosting up.

It was a good read as it not only lays emphasis on earning money, but on a wider topic; of being passionate about your dreams, being a leader in your business and the community etc.

Well I will leave the rest of the Article(s) for you to read.

The Link.

Traffic Jam

Well I was sitting in this traffic JAM for one hour... clutch->gear change->accelerator->break
repeated to n times...

Thought I should share this pleasurable experience with everybody I know...

My last few days in Bristol

Names of the people are not disclosed because of security reasons ;-)

Updating my skills

Well I did some research on Google to update myself of latest happenings in face recognition systems.

This is what I came across: Smiling Germans ruin biometric passport system.

Well I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Motivation

I was never in to motivation. I always had this laid back attitude.
But now things are different, being an entreprenuer one has to be driving force for the whole team and to be frank it is quite a responsiblity; which has to be carried 24x7x365.

It is so overbearing sometimes, that it is difficult to hold emotions.

Well this is when I get myself in some quite place, sit down have a smoke and just try to blanck my brain. Other way is to turn spiritual close your eyes and just stop thinking. Which can be quite difficult if your are buzzing with thoughts, things to do etc etc.

Life goes on...

Well I have this question come up in my mind every now and then,

How does one keeps himself going day after day... how does somebody gets inspired everyday to get up and take on challenges...

I think I should not be given time to think as, I tend to think a lot... ;-)

A pic of India

This pic was taken by Azahar.

This is me outside my AutoRickshaw stand... errr... lol.. my office BPO...

This is the real India... not so glitzy, swank and posh as expected.

But still this is India and I love it HERE!!!
:-)

Prepaid connection... a Joke

LOL... I went for a prepaid connection from airtel so that I do not have to wait for getting a postpaid connection...

Well it turned out that it takes 48 hours to activate a pre-paid connection!!!
This is from Airtel Customer Care...!!!

LOL... itz the biggest joke of 2006 already, how come it can be called pre-paid connection if it takes 2 days to activate???
Hmmm... well I got my new number yesterday afternnoon and I am still waiting for the phone to be activated...