tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82275946865362993142024-03-11T11:45:47.452+05:30WoRd FoR a WoRdNeha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.comBlogger257125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-42032631563575536652013-04-09T16:56:00.002+05:302013-04-09T21:43:26.104+05:30What a difference a day made<br />
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You know how we all want to get into shape at some point and end up hitting the gym for a week or two, out of the guilt of paying a hefty enrollment fee? Yes? Then, you might also remember how you would shamelessly shelve away your work outs because of your "busy life" that obviously would never discourage you from eating any more. As a result, you would suggest yourself to buy a treadmill, so you can workout any time at home, barring the possibility of how you're gonna be more prone to crossing the obese line :p !<br />
If you're thinking what a bad idea it was to invest in gym equipment, don't worry, am just getting to the point.<br />
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So, you buy the treadmill. Your face is gleaming with joy, as you look at the lifeless machine lying at the corner of your room, placed opposite your TV, to make your workout more entertaining. After having envisioned a thinner, beautiful you, you can't wait to get back in to routine! You're already dreaming of the dress you saw at the store the other day, that you couldn't fit in. Already thinking of how you're gonna make eye balls roll when you're gonna flaunt it at some wedding party. The list goes on, but the best one would be when those slim twits finally start getting creative at opening a conversation, unlike all other times when all they could notice (on purpose, that is) was how plump you've gotten! All these positive, sunshine thoughts in just one day, because now you own a treadmill.<br />
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Yeah, but sadly, these determined thoughts are eaten away by the aroma of the brunch, usually served hot from your mother's kitchen, or, driving past KFC. In the evening, you can feel the treadmill looking at your flabs, mocking it to glory, but expectantly you're lured away by hot coffee and <i>pazhampori</i>, or shall I call it a brief mini-lunch? So, being a Sunday, you would rather not waste your time by sweating it out, and would gladly settle for an outing.<br />
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Then comes Monday. Everybody hates Monday. It's a gloomy day, so it's ok if you postpone it for another day. On Tuesday, you're just getting used to gathering yourself up for work (and out of hangover). Moreover, it isn't a good day to start such positive things. My aunt said so. Some myth, it is. Then follows W-T-F, which obviously for reasons better known to the alphabets cannot be used to inaugurate the machine!<br />
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Then comes our hero, Saturday. A very positive day. The beginning of a weekend, perfect to get the machine into working. And you do so, finally. You gear up and get closer to the machine and bend down. Your neighbour from the opposite window is impressed with your warming up stretches, only to see you rising up to hang the wet clothes out of the washing machine on the treadmill holder :) <br />
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P.S. <i>now playing : </i><i>what a difference a day made</i><i>- jamie cullum</i><br />
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<br />Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-25806894832862843472012-09-23T00:57:00.000+05:302012-09-23T17:26:22.572+05:30Children of God<br />
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<i>'I bent over to pick up a paper plate and all of sudden my
sister nudges me, asking to attend to a child who wanted another plate of
goodies. I turned back and before I could even notice who it was, the little
boy stretched out his hand, wanting to get a bite of that tasty egg puff.
Though he was only two years old and the most talkative kid, I couldn't stop
myself from the overflowing sympathy that came after seeing a tube attached to his hand.
It was a tube meant for vein location, when in need for extracting blood. He
is suffering from blood cancer.'<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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I entered the 'Pediatrics Oncology Department' inside the
RCC. It was one of the most colourful rooms I had seen in a long, long time.
One of the walls had been painted over with the four cute characters from Madagascar.
There was a huge pineapple cake with my name inscribed on it, looking as
delicious as ever. There was even a paper cut out that read 'Happy Bday' stuck
on a cupboard. Excitement turned into empathy on seeing a bunch of little
kids undergoing cancer treatment, who were seated with their mothers. It is one of those days where I found it to
be a life changing experience. It's not the pain or fear of death. Everyone
goes through a lot of pain in different ways, right? But what hit me was their
indifference towards their situation. They were all too young to realize what
pain is, yet most of them were too mature. If I were them, I would have walked
up to the birthday girl and given her a piece of my mind for being so stupid to
rejoice over turning a year old at a place where celebration is a term seldom felt. But I was the birthday girl, and as I felt heavy hearted
celebrating my 23rd year, I felt it was time to behave my age. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I had a rewind and replay session of few sulky moments in my
life, where I felt God was being too unreasonable. Forget counting my
blessings, I started weighing my life on the basis of these problematic
situations, which weren't that bad coming to think of it now. As much as a self-boosting
process that day (at the Cancer centre) had been, everyone deserves happiness
at any cost. But we belong to an unbalanced universe, where it's the
imperfections that complete the viscious circle of life. I understood how hard
it was for me to acknowledge the gift of life as a boon, rather than a tally
board between who is right and wrong. Rumi was so precise when he said we'll
meet in a field beyond right and wrong doings. And here I am, in that field,
looking at the unclear shadows of the sunny side of life :)<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-57196528742549013922012-07-22T19:40:00.000+05:302012-07-22T19:41:04.189+05:30In and out the idiot box !<br />
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Television is not only a source of visual entertainment but
a means of relieving boredom. There exists the old school, which believes in
reviving tradition and in remaining deep rooted followed by the new school, which is into glorifying anything and everything to gain viewership. I was surprised
to see a leading actress and her fiancé face the heat in a recent interview on
a leading Malayalam channel. Their romance was being publicly exposed, imposing
questions on its credibility like, if the actress took the right decision by
getting engaged to a married man who was seeking divorce from his first wife.
There were rebellious justifications from the couple's side followed by fiery
questions by the journalist. The couple shared their happy times which were
juxtaposed with tears, too. I couldn't understand the big scene that was
created to entice spectators. It's a fact that the couple faced this interview
with courage and the demeaning process of exposing their personal space was
done with their consent. But, the channel would have never come up with such a
steaming concept if there weren't any spectators, right? What fun do we, as
spectators, get in showing such worthless curiosity in someone's agony? I mean,
coming to think of it, whether they get married or not is really not our
business!! What have we come down to as viewers, and most importantly as
humans? <o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p> </o:p><span style="background-color: white;">Are we running out of talent, or is it just a coincidence
that reality shows have been shelved to weekends due to lack of viewership? I
have nothing against them, just that they are a little too glittery in my
otherwise lucid life. I have a feeling that spectators are taken for granted
too often that we're expected to lick every bit of the dish they serve. I know
it's easier to shut up and change into some channel that satisfies me in a
better way. But, what is it that actually satisfies us? Watching a star couple
being cross questioned over their marital decisions? Certainly not. Or maybe,
yes! Then it's time to start worrying about what we have become.</span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Even in the recent Guwahati molestation case, though the girl's face was blurred, her stripping was evident in the video which was being replayed throughout the day. It was Times Now that took the humbling decision of not telecasting it anymore, as it made no sense. While we may never stop referring to the TV as the 'Idiot box' .. who are the actual idiots here - creative channel people who cater such insensitivity , or the viewers who buy it ?!?
</div>Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-81523941953014560892012-07-13T11:04:00.001+05:302012-07-13T11:41:09.924+05:30Problem child<br />
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Here I am, bed ridden with one of the most easily communicable sicknesses, the common cold. In the silence of my bedroom, I seek something beyond the ticking of the clock to accompany my loneliness. I am, interestingly, on a self-discovery mode. Having experienced a cold-prone childhood, ice creams and other cold savouries were told to be my perennial enemies. Little did my parents know that I would outsmart them into including these edibles in my regular diet, so much so that now I am daring enough to have one even on the day of my concerts! Don't get me started on how good I sound on all those occasions ;)<br />
Apparently, they affect the vocal chords over a period of time and the unlucky few, like me, will end up coughing at old age, while<i> Asha Bhonsle</i> would still be judging <i>Indian Idol.</i> But my idea of not giving up ice creams revolve around a totally different logic. I am in the process of making myself immune to them :D . Ok! Stop there, Mr. know-it-all, who is prepared to attack me with a scientific theory that'll prove otherwise :p !<br />
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<b>Aruna Shanbaug,</b> around 40 years back, was a smart young lady who planned her life with great conviction, only to be hit irreversibly by fate. A single rape by a sweeper, which was an act of revenge, dented her life forever, multiplying pain and sheer torture by several amounts. While people from all over India visited KEM Hospital to get a glimpse of the '<i>damsel in distress'</i>, she became just another 'object of display'. Captivated in a single room for forty years, it's the spirit in her that keeps her alive and kicking even today! In this vegetative state, all I would pray for her is <i>euthanasia</i>, though I might be denying the hope within her, despite diminishing health. <b>Pinki Virani</b>, a journalist, has written '<i>Aruna's Story</i>' which is a true account of the rape and its aftermath. She initiated the request to allow mercy killing for Aruna and has been unsuccessful so far.<br />
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...and every time I read of such pain-stricken stories, I instantly forget all the pain in my life, which half of the time is in my thoughts rather than in reality. But the fact is it all creeps in once I'm over with empathizing. Our problem is actually our problem and no once can ever get it how much ever they try empathizing. Some smart tweeter had once said that -<i> if we were given a chance to sit across the table and exchange our problems with others, within five minutes we would leave back with our own.</i><br />
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Like Chris Martin had sung in Coldplay's 'For you' .<br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><i>Everyone of us is scared</i></span><br />
<i>Everyone of us is hurt</i><br />
<i>Everyone of us has hope</i><br />
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</div>Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-71315833468004299992012-06-22T18:39:00.000+05:302012-06-22T18:39:23.473+05:30Melle Kollum - New Mix !!<br />
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Singing melle kollum was a different learning experience for
me. Being a part of 22 Female Kottayam was actually unplanned. It all began
with doing the tracks for Rex ettan, for the video shoot of the songs. But
eventually my voice ended up in the main version, too, only because of him. And
when Aashiq felt that he wanted to try out a single female voice, representing
Tessa, he invited me to do the 3rd track, Neeyo, which is composed by
Bijibalji. <o:p></o:p></div>
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My favourite is Melle Kollum. I guess deep down everyone is
a romantic. I am one, too. For someone like me who has a two-way communication
with music, I can best express my heart and mind and soul via music. I remember Rex ettan asking if I am in love a
few days before recording this song, to which I asked if it would affect how I
rendered. He just smiled. Music is such. I like how I can be just another
person in love, soul-singing every word, justifying romance. Melle Kollum is an
out of the world song. As in, it's abstract and larger than life. I was asked
to sing my portions dominantly, as at that part Tessa takes a huge step in her
life by moving in with Cyril. Rex ettan wanted power in the singing, one that
comes with security in love, trust in a relationship. That is why the words used
for my part are vast and open and infinite, like horizon. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Chirage..thelivaname.. <o:p></o:p></div>
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ulle..ullil melle... veeshum thennale<o:p></o:p></div>
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kanave.. kadale ...<o:p></o:p></div>
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I didn't know how Tessa actually must have felt.. till I got
to see the video. Beautifully shot in Bangalore, Aashiq Abu took it to a
different level altogether, with an enticing chemistry between Rima and Fahadh.
Penned by Venugopalji, Rex ettan just did a new mix for the song.. and I would
like you guys to give it a listen.. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This new mix is for his satisfaction, as an independent
musician. So here is melle kollum..<o:p></o:p></div>
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<iframe class="widget_iframe" frameborder="0" height="370" scrolling="no" src="http://www.reverbnation.com/widget_code/html_widget/artist_723750?widget_id=50&pwc[design]=default&pwc[background_color]=%23333333&pwc[included_songs]=1&pwc[photo]=1%2C0&pwc[size]=undefined" width="400"></iframe></div>
<br />Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-1408943931302553352012-06-20T22:32:00.000+05:302012-06-20T22:32:06.967+05:30"blank"blank.<br />
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blank space.</div>
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blank space filled with umpteen ideas.</div>
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random and familiar; <span style="background-color: white;">inspiring, yet deceiving</span></div>
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on the outset, my imagination begins to clutter, feeling confused. </div>
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but now they align into several parallel paths</div>
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not meant to collide, until my mind wants it to.</div>
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<br /></div>Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-62921493543167857842012-05-18T21:08:00.001+05:302012-05-18T21:08:26.504+05:30Cherish the day<br />
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This is the second time that a bird, whose breed I'm unaware
of, is nestling her babies over the highest layer of the chandelier, upstairs.
Though I've heard of how beautiful the process of giving birth is, it never occurred to me until I got to experience its warmth in real . Every day the bird would
bring layers of twigs to construct a nest, a home for her eggs which were
soon-to-become babies. The very first time the eggs hatched, baby birds would
twitch their neck upwards to gulp whatever little grains their mother fed them
with. Eventually the day arrived when they had grown big enough to fly, filling
the room with plenty of chirps and pips. As melancholic a day it was, it soon
succumbed to silence when they flew out of their ways, to explore a world of
their own.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The same process repeated and now the new ones are in their
feeding days, occasionally taking a peep from the top of the four layered
chandelier. Beautiful. Now I get it when they say how giving life to something
is one of the most beautiful creations of God. It will be a dry day when they
too will leave their temporary home. Life is beautiful, no doubt! Perhaps, what
makes it beautiful is realizing how useful we can make it by nestling every
second with utmost will. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The presence of shady people in your life shouldn't make you
hate life. Somewhere, they have been hurt too, to be that shady. It's unfair to
blame them or your destiny when things don't go as planned. Today you're happy,
and tomorrow could be just another unhappy day. But who cares? It's just
another sunset that will soon be followed by a sunrise, if you're willing
enough...to let go! <o:p></o:p></div>
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I'm glad that the expensive chandelier came of some use to
the birds, who could generate life, instead of being covered in dust. See, now
this was not something that was called for while purchasing it, right?
Sometimes, the most unexpected could play a pivotal role in shaping who you
are. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So... "Let go,
let go, because there's beauty in the breakdown" - Imogen Heap<o:p></o:p></div>
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As I end this blog, the birdy is now guarding her sleeping beauties, without winking an eye.<o:p></o:p></div>Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-68469055788579016452012-05-16T21:09:00.000+05:302012-05-16T21:13:01.106+05:30<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
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<b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">"Life being what it is,</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">we all dream of revenge.</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">Open your eyes for a second,</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: verdana; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;">just to roll them at me."</span></b></blockquote>
</blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 11px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 11px;"><br /></span></span></span><br />
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It is. Isn't it ? No matter how bright and illuminating the
sun is, we just can't help but groan over the dark side of the moon. But down
the lane, remembering the dark side of life could not mean more than a tear
drop. They say it's a part and parcel of life. Be it yesterday's plane crash or
the chirpy bird's nest over my chandelier or thousands of natural activities
that are accelerating global warming, they'll happen for a reason. It was funny
when just the other day, I and couple of my friends were talking about the Big
Bang theory and how whatever is how many ever light years away! The way it evolves, connects
together in an unbalanced manner, for a purpose that unintentionally celebrates
that imbalance. So I guess every obstacle in our life creates an imbalance, making
it the only possibility to get over it successfully! So happiness or success or
any such positive moments would be impossible without these obstacles. How
amazing it is! Life being what it is...
a reality to be celebrated every moment!</div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana; font-size: 11px; text-align: left;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/yDv_3nsboa4" width="560"></iframe></span>
</div>Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-10909765843567875412012-01-23T15:01:00.002+05:302012-01-23T18:25:18.013+05:30IFFK 2012It’s better late than never, is what I felt after the eight day long IFFK held at Trivandrum, last month. I always regretted not attending the Festival so far, but my first time was a super-enjoyable experience for me, one that’ll remain etched in my mind for quite some time. I am no critic to judge the quality of movies screened this year, but some of the movies I got to watch at the festival were enriching in several ways. ‘<b>Delhi in a day</b>’ , directed by Prashant Nair was a delightful watch, comprising of a tiny mishap that takes place between an upper class family in Delhi and a foreigner who wants to feel the real essence of India. The director got it right with the casting and by portraying an India devoid of slums and snake charmers. Though, I was advised not to indulge much into Indian films, I couldn’t stop myself from checking out ‘<b>Palas in bloom</b>’ by Shalini Usha Nair which was engaging to an extent. With killer acting by Fahadh Faasil, this book adaptation was narrated through his perspective, which made it interesting in certain shots, like the climax. The final Indian movie I watched was ‘<b>At the end</b> <b>of it all</b>’, a Bengali movie that was a total art movie cliché. The initial innings looked promising, but it got too boring with stereotype characterization, where in, almost all the characters spoke poetically, not to forget about a dragging narrative. <br />
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Among various categories including an exclusive list of football films, ‘<b>Games of their lives</b>’ came as a surprise as the synopsis given in the handbook was of a completely different one! This documentary told about the development of football in North Korea. French master Robert Bresson’s films were featured in the retrospective category and his ‘<b>Ladies of the </b><b>Bois de Boulogne</b>’ was a decent black and white experience. Depicting a vengeance filled extra marital affair, this one highlighted French culture of women of those times, which was aptly supported by subtitles. Denying it of unnecessary melodrama, the characters had a balance between emotions like ego, innocence and pride. ‘<b>The Puzzle</b>’ spoke of a bored housewife who leads a monotonous life and finds her true calling in solving jigsaw puzzles. The written material has been well adapted on screen and also has really good performances by the main leads. <br />
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My favourite pick from the Festival films has to be Asghar Farhadi’s <b>‘A Separation’</b>. Every character was simply interwoven within the storyline, connecting with the spectator in an empathetic way. Farhadi is directorially brilliant in his flawless style of narration and kudos to the realistic cast. I couldn’t take my eyes off for even a minute, despite having to keep in pace with the subtitles and facial expressions. Adrian Sitaru’s <b>‘Best Intentions</b>’ was another flick with unintended humour that came out of serious situations. It juggled with subtle comedy and an over anxious protagonist. The movie mostly comprised of long shots, where in, the leading character had long dialogues to deliver, doing justice to his neurotic personality in the film. But it lagged in few places, yet, stroke back with funny punch lines. <b>‘The First</b> <b>Grader</b>’ is based on a true story, beautifully directed with the non- fiction element intact. Though, it doesn’t boast of a great technical side, the movie on a whole was very inspiring with some impactful dialogues, speaking of how empowering education is. Visualizing Columbian country side in a modern day portrayal of daily life, ‘<b>The Colours of a </b><b>Mountain</b>’ is a simple story of a nine year old’s world. In the context of a larger, dangerous issue of the killing of civilians, all that matters to the children is a damn soccer ball. Even in this earthbound hell, a huge round of applause came for Manuel as he risked everything to get his ball. <br />
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I had my share of good and not-so-good movies, but watching them with friends and loitering around Kairali theatre for snacks and shamelessly waiting for a free auto is all too memorable to be forgotten. As inspiring as some of the movies were, that enriching it was to share it with friends of the same mind set. Like they say, great minds think alike :pNeha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-38904396637308842572012-01-16T20:00:00.000+05:302012-01-16T20:00:33.953+05:30If not now, when?I love my Samsung Google Nexus S phone that operates on Android. It's super-efficient, has thousands of smart apps, and is my best buddy when I'm away from home. I can 'like' on my own photos and can even send free SMSs internationally. Today, it is my virtual buddy, and what scares me is that maybe in the future, my only buddy. <br />
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You know what the irony is of this technology? The smarter your phone gets, the dumber we soon are prone to be. Being an ardent user of this technology, and a Facebook addict, it's only recently that I realized how small my world literally is. Be it from news updates to downloading songs and playing games where pigs are apparently in war with birds, smart phones and the internet have made many of us absolutely dependent on it. There was a time, back in school, when I used to talk to my best friend in class, after I'm home and before I sleep. My mother would ask me what's there to talk so much. But, that was the kind of bond I used to share with my closest of friends. Today, we speak around once in two weeks, and inevitably end the conversation with 'keep in touch' and the like, which I never thought would have to use it with her. My parents often complain of how silent I've become. and perhaps , now I realize it's because I'm so pre-occupied with socializing on the internet , and when outside… on my smart phone.<br />
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Giving it up is not a solution, as one will be called primitive if done so. Age old uncles and aunties will have a problem with this technology, scaring you away with latest findings on how cancer prone you are with radiations emitted by cell phones. Some might say it lacks personal touch and by saying that, I wonder what personal touch was there during times when a pigeon would deliver letters. Funnily, none of this can scare away net savvy people like us, and no matter what cancer can be born out of whichever gadget, even on our death bed we’ll probably not forget to ‘update out status’. <br />
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All said and forgotten, one thing that really scares me is how dependent I have become because of this. Also, how many of you can remember your closest friend's birthday without peeping into your phone calendar or Facebook for birthday reminders? Honestly, I don't even know what my land line number sounds like, because I don't need it anymore when I can converse freely over Skype with my sister who lives seven seas away. What's amazing is that everything from pins to pizzas are accessible today- just a click away. It saves time, too. I don't need to stand in a queue at the railway station when I can 'e-book' it. Nor do I need to go to book exhibitions for latest collections when I have Flipkart to deliver it at my doorstep. The internet is so cool, that I can catch an AR Rahman concert on YouTube for free, while other loyal fans take the trouble of paying hefty amounts to catch a live glimpse of him. All this is even better with a smartphone and 3G connection, which apparently is the new method for birth control ;) One of my professors had joked once about how net addicted today’s generation has become, that if we are asked of our grandparents’ names, we’d probably have to Google it up. Lately, I’ve realized how handy all this is when you have to constantly be in touch with people related to work and otherwise, but look at the amount of time wasted. At my age, I can see a lot of youngsters who aren’t equipped with such luxury, making most of their time travelling around, experiencing the real sun and earth. However easy our life is today because of this, I seriously think we must intend on spending more time outside with real people in a real world, as we may not realize what we’re missing on the outside. It shouldn’t be too late to regret, right?<br />
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We really are missing out on a lot, sometimes, when we take all this for granted. Unarguably, experience that comes with a personal touch leaves an immortal impression. There's so much to explore and enjoy outside the world of web. It's time that we stop confining ourselves to gadgets and gizmos and go out there. We might say that we're making life much easier with everything just a click away, but we're missing out on the real way of doing things that could probably make us stagnant and isolated with no memories left for the rest of our lives.<br />
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P.S. Samsung Galaxy Note is just amazing! Checked out my friend's phone and it has amazing storage power and a good enough camera. In fact you can even send mails in your own hand writing and its so much fun to play angry birds on a screen as huge as that :P. It's been rumoured to be better than iPhone .. do check it out, whilst you detach yourself from these gadgets after reading my post :)Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-44557100693002955502012-01-11T21:33:00.001+05:302012-01-11T21:49:21.531+05:30Happy New Year !Nothing has changed, yet, so much has.. people, circumstances and emotions. It's amazing how we end up happy with the same person we despised before and how we can't get enough of this happiness. I don't know how fast the year passed by, but what changed with it was my life, my ambitions and most importantly- who I am. How expensive is it to buy happiness for a lifetime? Is it always about compromising and being settled with whatever you're given? Or.. is there a field out there that's beyond what's right and wrong, like what Rumi said?<br />
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<blockquote>Toot ke bikharna mujhko zarur aata hai <br />
Varna ibbadat wala shahur aata hai <br />
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Sajde mein rehne do, ab kahin na jaunga <br />
Ab jo tumne tukhraya tho sawar na paunga</i><br />
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It's a new year, calls for new innings, new opportunities to become a better person and everyone deserves to be happy. Wishing you all a fabulous year ahead.Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-43319298486015699602011-12-22T14:31:00.000+05:302011-12-22T14:31:17.360+05:30Let Go, iMOGEN HEAP !<i>'Let go, let go, because there's beauty in the breakdown'</i> <br />
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There's something between me and Imogen Heap that connects way too deep, surpassing idol-ship and worshiping. It's how I'm so influenced by her song-writing and music. It's as if she's looking straight into my heart, understanding my emotions and expressing my pain and happiness. Whatever may be the occasion, I always have some song of her's to connect with. It's not sheer poetry that's ornamented with similes and metaphors. They're as simple as singing in the bathroom to being as dynamic as getting your heart broken, from loving someone like never before to being super ambitious. I really feel I haven't lived life the hard way to be able to write so honestly. Sometimes, everything around is so fake with plastic faces and expressions, that I feel so out of place in a Universe, as pure as ever, that bounds us all. I don't feel congested or like a stranger, but I'm on a confused platform, expecting one of the billion stars in the galaxy to direct me to a place where I can feel real. For me, at one point, life was ,or is, just a pattern. Everything is listed, like a lavish a la carte, where you'll choose what's most recommended. But the possibility that there is something outside that, yet to be discovered or acknowledged, is where you have to be lucky enough to experience a path not designed by others for you. That's a feeling I get to live in through her songs. I guess I am not good enough a writer to express her songs, because it's impossible for me to do so.. I'm leaving the rest of this post with some of her songs. You need to be a part of her music to understand it.. <br />
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<b>Between Sheets</b> <br />
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Psychobabble</b><br />
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2-1</b><br />
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<b>Tidal</b><br />
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I loved her album 'Ellipse'. It has this impeccable influence of Indian style aalaps and progressions ; and a slight touch of Bjork, the artist. Some of the Cello progressions remind me of Bjork's 'Play Dead' and 'Venus as a boy'. I'm on a high and I wish to be in this feel for ever, forgetting my troubles and insecurities. I'm ending this post with a line from <i>Tidal</i>, <b>"Do what you feel, just how you like..nobody has to know.."</b>Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-84356483055549374832011-12-19T18:13:00.001+05:302011-12-19T18:18:53.185+05:30The Hindu: Metroplus: She's Rocking !Though, a wee bit late, here are few excerpts from my interview for The Hindu. Liza George, the lovely lady who interviewed, was so friendly to talk with, which actually helped me open my mind out to her.. <br />
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To read the whole interview <a href="http://www.thehindu.com/life-and-style/metroplus/article2597841.ece?homepage=true">CLICK HERE</a> <br />
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<i><b>Neha Nair is the new musician in town. Liza George tunes in as she rewinds her journey in music</b><br />
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“I am one of the guys,” says Neha Nair, the sole girl in the Malayalam alternative rock band Avial. “In fact, after hanging out with them so much, I have started walking like one. While we are out together, I even help the guys check out girls,” she laughs.<br />
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“I started off as a Veejay thinking that would help me get a break into the film music industry. Unfortunately, all I got were more veejaying offers. Rosebowl's Outcast Vocals and Piano Sessions with Stephen Devassy were what got me noticed as a singer. While hosting In Conversation Session, I got the opportunity to interview music legends like Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and Sivamani. My producer, Kadamba Rajesh, would sometimes tell the guest musicians that I am a singer myself. Often this would lead to a jamming session. I remember singing a ghazal with Hariharan sir.”<br />
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Although trained in Carnatic music, Neha is currently concentrating on Hindustani music. “I feel my voice is more suited to Hindustani music,” says Neha, who is polishing her skills in Hindustani music with Manohar Keskar. Although she had learnt Carnatic music from Ramesh K. in Muscat, she is continuing her training under the tutelage of Perumbavur G. Ravindranath and Western music from Binu. “I love music in all its forms. I love the fact that every piece of music is created from the same seven notes. You take a blues song in Kalyani and a Hindustani bandish in the same rag, it may sound different but the root is the same. The endless possibility in creating something new out of these notes is what fascinates me.”<br />
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<b>Blogging her thoughts<br />
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Apart from music, Neha also spends time on her blog. A journalism student at the city's Press Club, she enjoys penning her thoughts. “It's usually on what I observe around me.” Ask her if she plans to make a career as a journalist and she replies: “I don't think so. I might freelance though. Music is my life and I want to pursue it in earnest. In fact, I listen to music all the time. Music is my work and my hobby,” smiles Neha who is a fan of Imogen Heap and Bjork.<br />
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A foodie, who loves everything except seafood, Neha claims her love for food saw her touch 82 kg when she was in class 10. “Constant workouts at the gym and a strict diet have helped me fight the battle of the bulge.” She still binges on her mom, Usha's rajma, channa and dal preparations. So, does she cook? “I can cook an excellent Maggie! Isn't that cooking?”</i>Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-29594563960723666702011-12-07T21:03:00.000+05:302011-12-07T21:03:49.698+05:30Aashiq Abu PhotographyIt was the most random photoshoot ever, don't know if I can even call it one! The Salt N' Pepper team was at Dubai to celebrate 100 days and we were just chilling in our rooms, getting as lazy as ever, arguing over which place to check out and stuff. All of a sudden I had the sudden urge of trying Aashiq's Ray Ban, his most priced possession. He probably loves it more than his life! And then we were on a roll.. it was lights, camera, action! I am a terrible poser and just when Ajay Menon gave up on me, Aashiq Abu, one of the most patient photographers I've met, came into the scene. I would keep doing exactly what he wanted me to do.. and by luck.. we got few amazing shots! This one below is my favourite click.. do <a href="http://nehapics.blogspot.com/2011/12/aashiq-abu-photography.html">click here</a> for more :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJbiZMFtgF2mzTxd_zu-kieiK7311zY6oZCRMUezXN_vFb1bN_OQvLNgs_W6SK10ehUUZkG7thUHetFy8ykpEePa3XzwxpeLSehSRE3H510QRvk7y6bXEcZveamIFpCyyBK4tw5rjO/s1600/22FT4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="198" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJbiZMFtgF2mzTxd_zu-kieiK7311zY6oZCRMUezXN_vFb1bN_OQvLNgs_W6SK10ehUUZkG7thUHetFy8ykpEePa3XzwxpeLSehSRE3H510QRvk7y6bXEcZveamIFpCyyBK4tw5rjO/s320/22FT4.jpg" /></a></div>Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-2037696185950218672011-12-06T15:25:00.000+05:302011-12-06T15:25:51.856+05:30Best Iconic Female Singer Award at the IMFA, Dubai<i>"sabr ka phal meetha hota hain"</i>, is something I learnt in my primary Hindi classes back in school. But in my case, there was hardly any wait or struggle in literal sense. I am just a normal couch potato who would rather switch through TV channels than going from studio to studio with a demo CD and biodata. My kind of struggle was a fun ride, where I often happened to slip, too. As lazy as I can get, having sent a dozen demos to the industry's happening composers, only Rahul Raj happened to respond back for 'Chanchalam' in Ritu. But as fate had it, was quite unlucky to not have a video for that, which got the song unnoticed. Then life took a drastically positive turn when I entered into a progressive chamber of creativity aka Rosebowl. From then on, of course, I lost touch with the playback industry, and was immersed in a whole new world of music, where there were no deadlines or commanding producers, but, just plain music! When Aashiq happened to hear Outcast Vocals and invited my to sing for SNP, I never knew it would be a song or a movie that would change the age old commercial perception of Malayalam Cinema.<i> Premikyumbol</i> was probably my fastest studio session so far, in a record of 25 minutes! But what intimidated me was when I heard my voice along with P. Jayachandran's, at the studio. Bijibal sir was so composed and calm even while correcting some of my nuances. And to see it on the big screen ... *sigh*! <br />
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When the IMFA, <b>International Malayalam Film Award</b> organizers called to inform me of my award, I thought I was receiving it for only Premikyumbol. But on the day of the function, I realized that I was actually being credited for my musical endeavours with Rosebowl and Avial. Can't believe how progressive music that was displayed only on a local channel, and was circulated on the net, crossing the 7 seas, has scored to such a huge level. I also happened to learn that few Radios in Dubai play the audio tracks of Outcast Vocals, and get a lot of requests for <i>Tose Naina Ft. Anberlin</i> :) Despite recovering from a cold, I had super fun jamming 'Etho Varmukilin' with a talented musician from 'Radio Me', Ranjith. So, a huuuuge thanks to the <i>'Gelf'</i> Malayalees and music lovers for making this local product international . The list will go on, but can't do without thanking SNP team, Aashiq, Bijibal, Rafeeq Ahmed, P. Jayachandran for Premikyumbol, Sumesh Lal for believing in his conviction, Avial team for making me feel like a family and educating me at all levels regarding music and life; my family, especially Dad.. without whose patience and encouragement I would remain a couch potato. Thank you to everyone on twitter and facebook for having shared my videos and for liking and commenting and retweeting, because of which my work got a little noticed outside Kerala. Finally, thank you IMFA and Radio Me for bestowing upon me this award. I felt really honoured to have shared this moment on the National Day of the U.A.E.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfO56y3k9Bufg26iqnKg5nr5WhN85MAtLMlFVC3_TT7MWKO3emNyKs2aIwsX0JUi-F2ZsgM5mDQmQOv13lmEtq4V-CoXJ1hdiHprLtlcagANnWaLjhGFMPPdXWGDwShqTr_nniGYe/s1600/IMFA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="214" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfO56y3k9Bufg26iqnKg5nr5WhN85MAtLMlFVC3_TT7MWKO3emNyKs2aIwsX0JUi-F2ZsgM5mDQmQOv13lmEtq4V-CoXJ1hdiHprLtlcagANnWaLjhGFMPPdXWGDwShqTr_nniGYe/s320/IMFA.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99tQpnihUluvC_U2WOxP7SDgyB45Vl5CYbPWjq9AyR-qt_mSZV3qsbOkjrYQ411BQ0eSY7m3HsLj8emsm_o4hHM5yN_kuFp9C16eyHoQV584eOQmSD5MbwOSrAZbwv0Nsjtd5UPSw/s1600/IMFA2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi99tQpnihUluvC_U2WOxP7SDgyB45Vl5CYbPWjq9AyR-qt_mSZV3qsbOkjrYQ411BQ0eSY7m3HsLj8emsm_o4hHM5yN_kuFp9C16eyHoQV584eOQmSD5MbwOSrAZbwv0Nsjtd5UPSw/s320/IMFA2.jpg" /></a></div>Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-33793052205443097502011-11-23T22:05:00.003+05:302011-11-23T22:16:22.354+05:30The Last supper - Rosebowl, a journey with immortal memoriesEver since I shifted my base to Kerala, my mother has always been bugging me to get into some channel and do one of those chit chat shows, where one has to put on a 32 teeth smile, yapping away with aunties ,like forever ! Not that those shows are lame, but it's so not my cup of tea. I am so damn serious and boring , especially in front of camera, that one would stop calling if I ever was to be part of one of those <i>request-a-song-and-i'll-play-what-the-producer-decides</i> show :) After college when I would go home and become a couch potato ,sipping onto hot coffee, Mom would show me plenty of <i>are-you-interested-in-VJing</i> ads ,to which I would retaliate with endless NO's!! Then, one day, as if it was snowing in a desert, I happened to stop upon 'Rosebowl' , during a commercial break going on between one of those cry baby serials my Aunt is addicted to. I couldn't believe my eyes. Something this contemporary, exceptional, out-of-the-box youth channel in Kerala came as a shocking revelation to me. But, my mom would still try to convince me to audition for some channel and invest my qualitative time in some extra curricular activity, rather than indulging into eating 24/7, which is a sickness for few foodies like me. OK. Maybe, I'm just going on and on without getting to the point. Here, it is- the <i>Om Shanti Om </i>dialogue "<i>kisi cheez ko pure dil se chaho tho puri qaynaat use tumse milane ki koshish mein lag jati hain" </i>... and really, it just happened like that. Some producer who was doing time pass on Orkut, happened to come across my then lame profile (where I had written rubbish like where would I go on a date and so on!), and was bowled over by my display photo, which was, of course, photo-shopped *evil grin* . <br />
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The fact is that no one knows about how I had auditioned earlier and was never called back , much before this producer's (Kadamba Rajesh)eye fell upon me. Like a dream come true, I hosted my first ever TV show <b>'Thank you for the music'</b> , which aired 100 best songs of A.R.Rahman, right before he won the Oscars. The rest they say is history. Sumesh Lal, one of my Godfather in true sense, gave me my first independent show <i>'Piano sessions with Stephen Devassi'</i> without even an audition. When I asked him about this later, he said that he apparently had some kind of conviction. What followed his conviction were other series like, <b>Outcast Vocals 1 & 2</b> and the <b>'In conversation'</b> episodes with a whole bunch of exquisite musicians!<br />
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It truly has been a great, fun, musical, extravagant and whatever I say more would only be too less to describe what Rosebowl has given me. I would like to thank all the technicians, cameramen, my producers who've been terribly patient with me ,the other anchors who are so much fun to hang out with , and Sumesh sir for believing in me. You all have watched our work on TV and on the net and have given us so much love, but, a lot of effort goes behind this, from its concept to preparing budgets, to creating sets, lighting, camera, editing, and so much! In fact, we work on a minimal budget, but we have always tried to deliver the best. I hope we've done justice. Tomorrow if our Rosebowl is going to be remembered for <i>Listmania</i> or for <i>Jagee's </i><i>cookbook</i> or for <i>Talking Point</i> or for <i>Harmonize Projekt</i>, it is definitely because of endless effort and dedication by the small team who works behind the camera. As you all must have known by now, the channel is going to be led by a new creative group. This is what<b> Sumesh Lal</b>, the ex-creative head at Rosebowl had to say on the channel's last day -<br />
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<blockquote><i>Dear friends and well wishers,This is our final status update. The 30 incredibly talented people who were behind Rosebowl have quit...They showed courage and conviction to follow their heart, when everyone else failed to handle the truth. And we will someday tell you that story...We thank all our friends and viewers who were our only inspiration all these years. Well, the show will and must go on. We hope the new guys would take the channel to greater heights...From all of us, producers, editors, cameramen, anchors… Thank you and goodbye!</i></blockquote><br />
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<b>Goodbye, Rosebowl</b>. This is only a new beginning for all of us who will try to create the same magic in some other platform. Thank you viewers for being such an amazing source of encouragement and constructive criticism. Without you guys, we would never be such a massive hit on the YouTube. This is my last work at Rosebowl.. <br />
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<b>Adios Amigo</b>Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-68327815551726319842011-10-18T21:47:00.000+05:302011-10-18T21:47:55.084+05:30Quest for a mind without fearI have been trying to listen to my inner soul, unintentionally, tossing sides of my cerebral area, deeply sunk into wandering thoughts. I have been experiencing a range of mood swings, most of which are positive and some of which are dark. The only relief I get from the burgeoning thoughts is the music I have bestowed myself upon. As I listen to them, enjoying the lines and the notes, I can feel the music listening to me, my thoughts. Maybe that's why I connect with it, because it connects with me, each time .It's a force that I seldom fail to notice. <br />
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Sometimes I just feel how easy a task it would have been for God to thump us upon expecting individuals, who may or may not want to create a generation after them. What are even funnier are the qualities with which he ornaments our souls. Everything is a choice, they say, isn't it? But, what's the right choice is the real problem. This is the quest for my inner soul, I believe. <br />
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From birth we imbibe the culture we are born to live with. I succumbed to it as a child, entrusting upon me the inevitable changes of my culture. But, what really is my culture about? Beyond the means of respecting our elders and being obedient, there are others virtues we are expected to follow. Hard work, patience ,tolerance, being ambitious are some qualities we are expected to practice and doing ultimately what your parents think is right for you, or rather what the society has decided to ,unanimously, having a 'secured and safe future'. At one point, I only wanted to make my dad happy, do exactly what he wants me to do with my life, and he has very impeccably chosen the right path for me. But, what he and I were unaware of, for a long time, was that the journey is to be done alone. The journey, from the rugged terrain of scorching heat and dry land to where there are flowing streams and flowers and butterflies. And now, I am still on a quest for my inner soul.<br />
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Abruptly leaving this post with lines from The Dewarist - "The story continues with <b>Minds without Fear</b>"Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-76104539699965017172011-08-17T21:49:00.001+05:302011-08-17T21:50:40.883+05:30Unity'India against corruption' has definitely outgrown its expected turnout. Mind blowing! Honestly, I am not writing this to advertise Anna Hazare or his motives. In the past few days I learnt that there are supporters of the movement who are against Anna Hazare, the activist. Whatever maybe your justification, please realize that we are against corruption. Let us not shift our focus from that. I personally feel that Annaji has never gone to make this movement a reality out of his political interests. He has taken a strong stand, come up with reviving of the Ombudsman Bill and has perfectly executed with the right panelists and, of course, mass support! Sadly, I saw few people saying that Annaji is trying to be the new age Mahatma and is sitting inside DGP's air conditioned room. The latter is such a sadistic view of someone who has struggled a long way to take a positive step forward. The former is very disheartening to even hear! Annaji, in my view, never tried to claim the title of another Mahatma, nor does he intend to. He has fought for our nation during the 1965 Indo Pak war and has played a vital role in building Ralegaon Sidhi in Ahmed Nagar district, Maharashtra. For the record, the village runs on solar power, windmills, etc. I feel that someone of this stature who has contributed in a discreet manner would never in his right minds want to make self-claim of being Mahatma. You get what I mean? He genuinely intends on directing the Janlokpal bill on the right path, though, your perception of the bill could have a negative review. If so, then please refrain from supporting Annaji and his movement. You are free to do so, right? Mahatma Gandhi was known as Mahatma for his impeccable execution of ideologies at a time where electronic media, hype, second by second update of reactions were absent. But, the success of this movement deserves a big applause to the masses of India all over the world. <br />
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The success of this movement is not celebrating Annaji's conviction, but it is of how a cause can get the masses together. Like Chetan Bhagat had mentioned earlier, initially a lot of people were against Anna Hazare, the bill, etc. for reasons better known to them. But, today we have to garner and express that support for the kind of arrogance the political parties are showing. There is absolutely no gratitude, respect, empathy for the citizens of India. On one side we have reckless commentary and decision making and on the other side... *silence*. MMS has definitely no intentions of speaking up, or has rather forgotten how to do so and instead deploy spokespersons who accuse Anna of being dipped into the ocean of corruption. I knew the Govt. would not agree to the bill so soon, but showing utter ignorance to the common man's view is disagreeable. I didn't support this fight earlier because I felt we had to remove the temptation from within ourselves. But, after the ungrateful assembling of voices belonging to the party sounded so foolish and immature, I want to support this movement to show how much I regret having them into power. I want to support to show my respect towards a bill that deserved its empowerment ages ago. I want to support to prove that the common man won't bend for foolish notions set by the Govt. I want to support to show that we are indeed united. So let us have arguments on whether this is new age revolution, or Anna's greed to popularity, or if we should equalize corruption with Annaji later! This is the moment to understand and acknowledge the power of the common man. Unite.<br />
Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-88906070368988113032011-08-12T17:59:00.001+05:302011-08-12T18:01:46.761+05:30Padmanabhaswamy - The Lord and his wraths!The <b>Padmanabhaswamy kshetram</b> is rich. Yes, a lot of money indeed. I don't even know how many zeros to put against the 1. So we all agree that the temple represents frontier of our history. I heard that <i>Maharaja Swathitirunal</i> had put in lots of coins at his sad and good times into the <i>bhandaram</i> as this was one of the ways through which he found peace from chaos and trouble. Presumably, the money is not in the form of ready cash, right? I think it has a mix of cash, antique objects and souvenirs that belonged to the yesteryear rulers. Please correct me if I am wrong here. I do find it surprising when some are in the opinion of the money being used for the 'welfare' of the common man .I definitely wouldn't trust it in the hands of politicians for the simple reason that many are way too tempted to devour it to entertain their personal needs. This kind of treasure should be protected in a reserve or a museum, built to distance it from the eyes of thieves. The temple mirrors the religious sentiments of many, and some amount of discreet tone is maintained due to this. One thinks twice, thrice before passing any comment on the money, worried that they will be targeted by communists and secularists. Most of the recent additions to this huge treasure are in the form of money and various gifts to the Lord in the name of <i>archanas, poojas,</i> festivals; that have all been followed as a part of tradition. I adore the architecture, one of the main reasons as to why I have visited the temple around 6 times in 4 years. But, I was always against certain rules we abide by in the name of God. Why I get angry is because these rules are manmade and are followed in a mandatory pattern by blaming God. You cannot wear a salwar or any form of pants because God dislikes it. Says who? Once upon a time, I used to hear people giving up non veg on the days they visit temples, but interestingly, very conveniently they have a bath after consuming non veg, claiming that the bathing purifies their body. What they failed to learn is that the mind has to be pure, not your pot belly. To each... his own. I respect others views on certain traditions as long as it does no one bad. <br />
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There are enough and more charity organizations, NGOs and Govt. approved schemes that are helping the poor. Yes, it isn't enough but you can't demand our traditional collection to be used to serve the needs of the people. Not that I am against this idea. With so much money one would only want to make generous, fruitful use of it. But, to knowingly place the sword in the hands of the deceiver, one shouldn't expect development, but destruction. In no ways am I in a mood to agree on using this money for the nation's welfare only because if it is misused, it is going to take forever to punish the guilty and to procure the lost wealth. What a Bad Idea sirji! <br />
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The recent repercussions after the findings by the temple's astrologer triggered a lot of mixed thoughts. It was disheartening to see such statements coming out on such a sensitive issue. I really felt that the religious sentiments were being taken advantage of. According to these astrologers, God's wrath would be unleashed if the respective vault is opened. I wish the thieves would fall for that instead of poor devotees. I have believed in astrology as a form of science, not astrologers. Their inaccuracy can be a cause of huge hesitancy in the minds of millions of people who believe in it. Making strong statements like the exposing of the vault can lead to extinction of your generation is so absurd and uncalled for. <i>Mr. Sunderarajan</i>, the 70 year old man who revealed the Temple treasure died of fever. Apparently he died due to God's curse and was not an outcome of sickness, according to few who are narrow minded. Sadly, there are so many who are going to believe this and will, subsequently, begin to fear God all the more! My request to these astrologers who exercise important powers of not only detecting astrological signs, but who are responsible in influencing devotees' beliefs, must be more responsible in their conclusions. Trust me... if God wanted to curse and spew venom on 'wrongly done activities'... terrorists, scamsters, and the bad guys would have been rotting in hell long time back. That is not how this world works.<br />
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I understand that exposing the treasure can attract corruption, but it can also at the same time make us proud of our culture and diversity. Isn't that what India is best known for? Let us be more transparent and help resolve this issue that can satisfy the religious, and the atheists .Security is the main issue and no wrath can keep Robin Hood away from possessing the wealth. I hope the SC takes a wise decision and unfolds the secret treasure and make us feel more responsible in safe guarding it.<br />
Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-7840208390068139072011-08-10T21:52:00.005+05:302011-08-11T08:44:24.808+05:30Veetilekyula Vazhi - A selfless journey for the sake of humanityThe way to a destination, chosen by many, that brings together the lines of meet. When the journey begins with a Doctor having to fulfill his patient's last wish, there begins the tryst with destiny that could change many people's lives altogether. But, let me be more concise. Prithviraj, the doctor, takes up the momentous responsibility of taking a little boy all the way to his father, an alleged terrorist. How he does it is what this movie is all about. Basking though the glory of the very famous <i>Pushkar Mela</i> in Rajasthan to the ice tingling snowcapped hills of Ladakh, they have been beautifully captured through the lens.<br />
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This elongated search begins with the little boy being recklessly handed over to the doctor, whose vision is too unrealistic but at the same time too determined to have its way. I love the way the boy bids a simple goodbye to the little institution that took care of him till now. Though he may be a little skeptical of what the future has for him, he seemed to be very confident or rather too ignorant about his migration. Amidst his journey, his little habits and mannerisms were what enticed me into falling in love with him. He would watch Tom and Jerry with a lot of curiosity, being a freedom he was getting for the first time. Initially, there was a scene where the doctor had gone to inquire about his father's whereabouts and the boy had just got off on his own doing his own little thing .Later on, quite sheepishly he would always clung onto the doctor's hands , somewhere worried about being left alone, a moment of accountability. Unaware of his past and future, and unaware of the outcome of this intentional quest... he is just comfortable with a little aeroplane or a little ball, or anything that can distract his mind and can keep him occupied. Towards the end there is even a moment when he asks the doctor if it is necessary for him to face his father. Such is the innocence of a 6 year old, beauty of childhood. <br />
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I am liking this toned down look and presentation of Prithviraj's character in the movie. He doesn't sound loud or doesn't even make me, as an audience; feel like he is a superstar or whatever. There is certain honesty in his eyes, his biggest asset. At one scene when they were at a terrorist hideout, unprepared for what was about to happen; he looked unhappy while witnessing the making of bombs hidden inside the disguise of a beach ball. He kept looking, not knowing how he should react. It is one of those times when we don't know if we should just stick to what we are doing or should care of our surroundings. Somehow, none of this mattered to him. Though, he did try to strike a small arguement with Indrajith, another Jihadi, it seemed to go nowhere. He knew he couldn't change their motives and he just wanted to give his mission a full stop. In fact, in another scene (which was shown in the trailer), he says that there are several routes that lead to home. Whichever route one chooses, he finds it to be the correct path. Though it may not seem right for the other, one cannot choose for another. <br />
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Dr. Biju has incessantly stressed on a selfless element throughout. A doctor who decides to give life to an opportunity which includes people, who took away his zest for living, is a beautiful portray of how one perceives life. There is never a selfless deed, isn't it? Even a philanthropist gains satisfaction after losing his wealth intentionally to charity. But, here, it was a selfless moment, deed, a selfless fight for what was asked for. At several points the doctor is asked the same question again and again... why this selfless journey for someone who is not your’s? Some commendable moments are how he had brought a shade of calmness in most of the terrorists' characters. Terrorists in this movie are calm and composed, and sometimes even have a good heart. There was this loud and happy Punjabi driver who happened to give doctor and the boy a lift. The driver was shown speaking his Hindi in typical Punjab style. This was followed by some typical <i>bhangda</i> music. Another funny moment was when he refers to the doctor as a <i>'madrasi</i>' on realizing that he is from the South. The plight of South Indians! Whether you speak Telugu, or Kannada, or Malayalam or even <i>'Manglish</i>'... you'll always be known as a <i>madrasi</i> for most of them up north :)) Such amazing musical forms have been depicted through the sandy deserts of Rajasthan. I also got to hear some real <i>Sufi</i> music along with a small ghazal piece. They all have been so aptly synced with most of the scenes. The only fictitious thing in the whole movie was how easily the doctor could break through into the terrorist circle. The rest is for you to see and judge. The use of other languages has been timed perfectly with the characters and situations that it doesn't make one feel out of place while watching it. <br />
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Veetilekyula Vazhi for me is a journey towards finding one's selflessness, an irreplaceable emotion from hugging the bigger cause -humanity.<br />
Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-71988801279701386602011-08-01T19:41:00.000+05:302011-08-01T19:41:31.198+05:30Ajay Menon and his 'Beautiful People'Ajay Menon, the eye behind Papaya media, has always weaved magic through his extraordinary images inside his eyes :) And everytime he would update his photography page with some amazingly captured moments, I would crave to be a part of it someday !! Whenever I met him I kept nagging him about how he never has time to click his friends' photos and he would always say that we never have time to pose. Just two days back during Avial's pre gig relaxation, we were all sitting together having coffee and fries and pakoras and this man just stood up with his camera, abruptly flashing around, catching us unawares! Then, he asked me and Sreenath Bhasi to sit behind each other and 'act' like we are having a jolly good time. We tried everything but apparently I made all the wrong moves and the photographer seemed to get tired of waiting to catch THE moment. But, we patiently went on posing and ended up getting few 'average' moments caught beautifully in his camera. One of those average moments is what you can see below, featured in 'Beautiful People'. To know more about Ajay Menon and his skills just check out his Page on Facebook : http://www.facebook.com/ajaymenonphotography<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijfhlM4Qxd9nSsE-XB25RyCXBp1bTHJYxh8VKxpMQvNdbTvnzHQLoOxbSHRTlq77mGMfzJsFQcYxZHAXt_MKszFbINiu7EOeiMdPM_JxtmrWal7OmcSEzh_KL-nGvu54LDKLL7Icat/s1600/IMG_8615+Neha+Nair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijfhlM4Qxd9nSsE-XB25RyCXBp1bTHJYxh8VKxpMQvNdbTvnzHQLoOxbSHRTlq77mGMfzJsFQcYxZHAXt_MKszFbINiu7EOeiMdPM_JxtmrWal7OmcSEzh_KL-nGvu54LDKLL7Icat/s320/IMG_8615+Neha+Nair.jpg" /></a></div>Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-33575783620959984722011-08-01T18:58:00.001+05:302011-08-01T19:05:26.011+05:30Justice delayed IS Justice deniedYou've got to believe this. I was just trying to, like a normal, inquisitive individual , Google the latest updates on the Soumya rape case and didn't find any useful details. So, I thought of blogging on how pathetic the system is and blah blah, because I tend to become wacky everytime I see nothing being done on such important issues. Then I refrained from doing so as I always end up writing long, boring lectures on this , feeling helpless ! Then, on twitter, happened to read a retweet "In 2010: 48,461 rapes in India. 2011: 5 months, 185 rapes just in Delhi! #SHAME" by @jainnimit. <br />
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There are the ones that never get registered, or enough media attention, and hence due to no major reporting being done they're denied any action or justice at all. But the ones like Soumya, how much has actually been done? The whole of Kerala was outraged months ago when the incident took place and it seems like the whole truth was laid out by Govindachami himself before the police. When everything is out in the open, why is it taking so much time to punish him? A month back I read few absurd details on how few top advocates are actually fighting this case for the rapist. Apparently 5 of them are on this case and the soul which is not resting in peace is probably up there crying tears of pain, on how pathetic it will further get for all the other women who might have to go through this terrible fate. I can still remember seeing an ad campaign by Ajan Rs regarding this. Watch it below.<br />
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<iframe width="425" height="349" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/SLeeiUyS5_M" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
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Soumya <b>IS</b> dead<br />
Govindachami <b>IS STILL</b> alive<br />
Politicians <b>HAVE</b> Spoken out<br />
They <b>WILL</b> speak again<br />
When the<b> NEXT</b> Soumya passes away<br />
Open your<b> DAMN</b> mind!<br />
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There is nothing left to be said after the countless number of debates and counter sessions of justifications. Yes, justice delayed is justice denied. And hell yeah, we aren't going to forget this for a long time until Soumya doesn't get any rightful justice. If there is someone who knows anything extra about this case or on how it is progressing , please be kind enough to mention it here.Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-3574151323713528422011-07-26T19:29:00.003+05:302011-07-26T22:03:16.100+05:30Chaappa Kurishu - A humble reviewPlease don't go ahead if you have not watched the movie because I have given away the suspense :)<br />
<blockquote><b>Aararane ! Nyano neeyo araarane</b> !</blockquote><br />
Over the flip of a coin around a 1000 true stories are portrayed through the conviction of a man, Sameer Tahir. Based on several MMS scandals that has happened in the past, and is happening even today, this movie goes beyond that basic concept, painfully showing the hovering of emotions and how it can require just one incident to trigger it off!<br />
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Ansari (Vineeth), who has been leading a very plain, dull life as a salesman at a supermarket; seems to be unaware of how it would feel to be the king of his kind of world. On the other hand, Arjun, who seems to be a Casanova, is somewhere deep down aware of how he plays his game. The two extremes are evident in every angle of their emotions. When love is blunt and so openly exposed between Arjun (Fahad) and Sonia (Remya); we have Ansari and Nafisa (Niveda) who speak it through the language of sight. One would call the latter 'old age’, but only if one could understand the whole universe of love that revolves around the beauty of silence. Sameer has shot few scenes so realistically...like how Ansari plunges his teeth into the banana, having bountiful bites at a time, hungry from a half day of tiresome work. There was so much of innocence on his face only to know what a crook he can be when he gets the power. In fact everyday he goes to have one <i>porotta</i> from a nearby eat out and is always ridiculed by another man for having to live on minimal food and sarcastically asks him to borrow money for a plate of Biryani. Also, loved how Nafisa took the first step of extending a hand of friendship towards Ansari, trying to make him comfortable and letting him know that he has someone to rely on since he is away from home. <br />
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After a steaming lip lock between Arjun and Sonia, their love making was intentionally captured on his mobile ,and from there begins the adventure of how these two extremes will come together for the same purpose. When Sonia becomes aware about the existence of Ann (Arjun's fiance), she gets into a bickering conversation asking him to back out from his wedding. During this mishap ,Ansari , who at that point of time was there to deliver a letter, happens to possess Arjun's phone that slips out of his hand in mere pressure of losing Sonia and having revealed to her about the their taped video. There are a few talks between the two main protagonists but what I thought was the beauty of this movie is, Arjun being absolutely unaware of how backward Ansari is when it comes to technology. The former is worried on having another stranger possess the clip but is totally unacquainted about how Ansari doesn't even know how to make a call from that phone!! But, it is only when Ansari feels cheated during their first meet (where he asks Arjun to come alone) when he spots two other friends of Arjun accompanying him to the discussed place (where the phone would be handed over), that the game begins ... Not only was Ansari disappointed ,but he also realized how everyone just took him too easy just because he had no power. Now that he knew that he had the phone that could bestow powers upon him, he wouldn't dare risk the chance of giving it all up too soon!<br />
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Right before the interval, there is a scene when Ansari calls Arjun to a park where he assures him of handing over the phone. Eventually he doesn't and ends up playing around with him, making Arjun do bold things which Ansari himself was insecure to do so. They both sit on either sides of a bench, a smirk slowly developing on Ansari's lips, a smirk that says it all. That one smirk is his acknowledgement of power, of remote control that is in his hands. It was the unveiling of the little demon that was triggered off from his dormant dream!<br />
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I love how Sameer has juggled with emotions, each commanding the other, depending from situation to situation. At one time, Arjun was so comfortable dealing with many girls at a time, but after having lost his phone it was only about Sonia that he cared. He just frantically searched the net to see if his MMS clip was uploaded, only to feel glad about its absence. If it wasn't for Nafisa's disappointment over Ansari's weird behaviour changes, leading to lies; maybe he would never give up his new found power. On Nafisa's word, he decided to return the phone back. There are a series of other phone calls between them and I was continuously wondering how the hell a phone battery stays that long. But, at this prompt moment, the battery dies and Ansari hands it over for charging at one his friend's shop. On the other end, Arjun was dying out of angst, helpless as to what he could do to get his phone back; what he was unaware of was how huge a scandal was waiting up the line for him. <br />
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Yes, the video is uploaded by the friend who charged his mobile and Sonia and Arjun end up becoming the libido factor for many of the perverts who enjoy the tape soon after. The climax is a fight sequence between the two which was full of anger, impatience and the urge to end the pain. There were no fashionable stunt scenes to highlight the muscles of our respective heroes which are exactly what made me applaud. It was a pure fight that was a mixture of guilt and fury. There was a point when both stood opposite each other, one contemplating the other's move; it was that moment which spoke about how scared and confused they both were of the consequence.<br />
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Another scoring point was how the female characters were given limelight. Sonia who is shattered with failure in love does not break into a dramatic outburst of tears, and very strongly speaks whatever is there in her mind. It somehow gave me a picture of how strong women are emotionally. We do know how to handle the worst of situations, and sometimes can save a sinking ship. After having learnt about her video on the net, there is a scene where she stops by in the traffic, through the rolled down windows one can see a guy handing over money to a prostitute. In a look one can get how she equates herself to the other woman across the road. For absolutely no fault of her's. Nafisa is so simply portrayed throughout the movie. She talks so little... but whenever she does it is like sweet music filling into my ears. There was so much of honesty and sincerity in her eyes, and this lady is so damn expressive!<br />
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Meanwhile, the end seems to be a sort of closure, in a more positive way, for everyone. Sonia, who contemplates on giving up her life, decides to move on and is surprisingly accompanied by Arjun who at last understood how truthful her love was for him. Ann, feels deprived of his love with this scandal churning up more hits day by day, but feels lucky to have survived the mistake of getting married to him. Ansari is a happy, young man now. He got to taste the power and at the same time feels good to have retaliated to whatever injustice (according to him) done to him. He lives his life the way he has to and ends up being served that one plate <i>porotta</i> yet again .. This time he does oblige to the ridiculed comment, and asks for those 50 Rs, believing he has earned himself a Biryani!<br />
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I loved every aspect of this movie. I don't think you should watch it just because it is experimental. I would refrain from using such terms as it will undermine the other highlights within the movie. I found Salt N' Pepper experimental too, only because it dealt with the most common topic, love, with edible delicacies and subtle humour. If one calls Chaappa experimental for its technical brilliance, then a movie would be incomplete as it only fulfills the technical side. But, Chaappa has everything from a strong story line, to brilliant casting to brilliant music ,by Rex Vijayan, complimenting every scene perfectly. Bravo! to the whole team of Chaappa Kurishu. Don't flip a coin over watching this movie, because you will miss one helluva movie if you lose it ;)Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-35548755144767855202011-07-24T18:56:00.001+05:302011-07-24T19:43:38.071+05:30Guru Pournima 2011I'm quite on a blogging spree this month! Hmm... Loving this interest, and Inshallah, shall be inspired more to sustain it :) During my last session with my Hindustani Guru, Prof. Manohar Keskar, we were discussing about what I should try singing for Guru Pournima celebrations. In hindsight I got to understand how these celebrations are traditional held. There are norms and 'rules' some<i> gurus/ shishyas</i> attach to this day. Whenever I have found myself to be punctual, responsible and disciplined I know I have to attribute it to Dad. He always used to tell stories of struggle, compromise, adjustments and whole lot of that <i>you-know-during-my-time</i> incidents. Sometimes, I wonder how hard it must have been which on the contrary made him a super strong human being, a super dad! Making me a musician was his idea of making his dreams fulfill through me. He got me the best of everything to facilitate my studies particularly in music. From then on life went on a roller coaster ride, swirling through ragas , aalaps and geets...an extravagant journey so far. <br />
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Along with learning some beautiful, magical nuances in music; I also got to see some beautiful insights of my inner self through my Gurujis' knowledge & experience. I had some very negative impact while being associated to another musician who, maybe unintentionally, almost tarnished my determination and will to do <i>sadhana</i>. Why & How? I do not know. But definitely it was meant to be ,because if it weren't for him, I probably wouldn't have learnt some valuable lessons of life and most importantly, taken a step forward in music. <br />
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It is another whole traditional episode for music students throughout India to literally fall at their Guru's feet every time they see him/her. Coming from a much care free teaching system at Gulf, I was not so used to these traditions though I knew I had to do it on important occasions like Saraswati pooja, etc. During one such occasion, for Sai Baba celebrations, a very interesting thing happened. I was supposed to accompany my Carnatic Guru, Perumbavur G. Ravindranth sir, on vocals. I was already on a high when he invited me to sing alongside him, a privilege very few students get <i>*yippee*</i> . Soon after the concert commenced and people had settled down to listen to the bhajans; sir had signalled me to sit beside the accompanying instrumentalists. After that he himself, being an ardent <strike>fan</strike> devotee of Sai Baba, spoke few generous words on him and music and soon after came and sat beside me. He just looked once towards his right and left and gave a sort of approval to commence the concert. At that point I realized that I never touched his feet and it would be bad luck in that case. I looked at him, worried, with trouble in my eyes I tried to tell him of the horrible mistake I had felt I committed. He smiled lightly and then laughed a little more. That itself was so assuring, but I still felt guilty. He told me, "All this is nothing, child. Respect is in the mind, not by touching my feet. Pray to Sai Baba in your mind and sing, my blessings are always there with you ". That moment was something that will always remain etched in my heart forever. These are such simple things one tends to exaggerate and over exercise in the name of God, rituals, tradition, etc. After that day I was able to believe that everything is in the mind. Our love and fear for God, our judgements based on circumstances, a normal moment turned into aggression for the silliest reason... is all in the mind. <br />
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I remember how my very first Guru in Carnatic , Shri. Ramesh K. had come over to my home to commence our lessons. That time my sister would also learn with me. When he began teaching us <i>geetam</i>, there was a time when he would ask me to stop running like a rabbit :) I guess as kids we just tend to be really impatient as though wanting to learn and sing everything all at the same time ! But, he has been the sole reason behind my initial growth in music. He is the most patient person I had met at those times which was why it was a pleasure to learn under him. He is amazingly funny and would always crack little jokes to make the learning process more interesting. I just loved his classes so much that by the end of high school I told mom to ask him if we could secretly pack & bring him to Kerala :) He would never ever praise me for my performances even when I came first for Light music under junior category, consecutively for 3 years! But, that is exactly what made his every comment so exclusive. Probably in my 8-10 year of learning under him, only on 2/3 such occasions was he able to appreciate my singing. On the other hand, my Pakistani guru Ustad Khalid Anwar Jaan, would always keep motivating and praising the slightest nuance or taan I took which was why I felt super confident whenever he taught me. <br />
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Some of my musical sessions with Prof. Keskar go without any music at all! Hehe... he is a talker and I am a good listener if it is him on the other end. Initially when I was a new bud who was overtly willing to bloom, he would suppress my impatience with some of his scholarly talks. I remember him telling me how he despised all these poojas that were held at Gurupoornima celebration because it would simply embarrass him. He never liked the concept of Guru being literally treated as God with<i> pada pooja</i> (washing their feet) and restricting them from accompanying their <i>shishyas</i> on vocals or instruments. He has always broken barriers, very successfully, if he felt it curbed the freedom of expressing in any art form. I so love this attitude of his! So, this time during the practice session we were going through this cheerful <i>geet</i> in <i>Raag Yaman</i> . He played the tabla as I tried expanding my vocal chords to suit the rhythm. I so loved the<i> thekas</i> he played that I requested him to accompany me on the main day. He so happily agreed to it reiterating how he dislikes the rules some authoritative people put on Gurus like they are not allowed to accompany people smaller than them, especially if it is their own student. This time with his entire mind he said he would accompany me only for that small composition.<br />
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Today was Guru Pournima and I did a 35-40 minute interpretation of <i>Raag Puriya</i> followed by a small geet <i>'Rang rangile phool khile'</i> in Yaman . Ratnasree, a fab tabla artist accompanied me for Puriya and Guruji for the latter.Also, on the harmonium was a very talented musician, Hussain Ali. Towards the end of the day , Guruji said that how much he teaches is proportionate to how receptive the student is. With the Universe reflecting all the positive energy given out by all my Gurus, I assume that this energy will give me the courage to take fruitful steps forward in most of the things I do ..Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8227594686536299314.post-21732080737197454622011-07-21T23:06:00.003+05:302011-07-21T23:44:33.792+05:30SOLD : Zana & NadiaNadia and Zana Muhsen (Yemen)<br />
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The sisters right before they left for their holiday-turned-nightmare<br />
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This is Nadia with her daughter, Tina<br />
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This is Zana with her mother, years after her escape<br />
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Spell bound! I had been searching for ages for 'SOLD: Zana Muhsen with Andrew Crofts' but eventually ordered it through Flipkart. I have never ever felt so moved after reading a book. I share some mystical bond with it for sure..! My previous relationship with the book was when I was 14, the same age as one of the protagonists, Nadia. The story in one line is about the tryst of two England born girls, Zana and Nadia, with their sudden change in destiny. It was a beautiful holiday trip that just went wrong. Horribly wrong. These young girls decided on going for a holiday to Yemen, the birth place of their father, for a month or so. What they didn't learn was that they were already sold and apparently "married" to their father's friends' sons. Zana, who seems to be the stronger one, describes her whole nightmare that lasted for around 8 years before she could escape to England for good. In fact the book was written by a ghostwriter, Andrew Crofts for getting Nadia out of Yemen. Zana was first to escape and wanted this book to be used as a tool to reach out to her sister who is by now mothering around 6 children with her Arab husband, Mohammed. <br />
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What were painful to acknowledge was the chores she was made to do. This is a real life story that happened during the early 80s. I don't think I can ever relate to the pain she went through. But having to learn that she was married on her 3rd day of so called vacation to being forced to lose her virginity with an unknown stranger who was then known as her husband that too for a few dollars is unimaginable! When I read it during my school days there was an anxiety to know more about Arab women and their lifestyle. There are few photos of Zana and Nadia in the book and also available on net. I used to stare at those photos for a long time and try to picture how they walked miles together to collect water to not even having a standard latrine for fulfilling nature's call. When Zana had to deliver her baby, which she says is a product of her rape by her alleged husband; she had to do it at her hut-like home without nurses, doctors or proper instruments required for the purpose. <br />
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Though I did try to empathize with her very action and reaction, what I couldn't do was shed a tear. Zana had such great conviction, the will to fulfill her plan, and to never lose hope that always kept me as a reader very sad but determined of that tiny ray of hope. The book ends with Zana's return back home which almost freed me from some kind of a dungeon, I felt I was in, while reading the book. I could just keep writing about her agony and struggle and eventual success but it is not worth spoiling the essence of this book through my blog. Somehow, many events from her life kept haunting me at one point or another and then I decided I must get this book. I remembered almost all the important events as though xeroxed into my memory. Just finished reading it today and feel so light, as if it were a task I had to accomplish from the day of my birth! A must read, people! I totally recommend this woman's true account on modern slavery.<br />
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I did my little research on this and the latest reports on Nadia is available on this site : http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2002/apr/01/gender.uk , where she states that she is apparently happy with her life.Neha Nairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07591340439476577599noreply@blogger.com0