Men and Beauty
Today most men are just not content with the traditional segments of male fashion like apparels, footwear, accessories and at the max jewellery, but are instead exploring their feminine side as well.
Earlier men fashion was mainly restricted to four sections - apparels, footwear, accessories and jewellery, and while shopping they usually sought for things that are stylish, durable and comfortable.
Today most men are just not confined to these four sections. They are no longer coy to explore their feminine side as well. Most men these days are open to seek beauty tips and deep down some of them are just as conscious as women about their looks.
It is increasingly becoming a wrong notion that beauty is the domain of women only. Men have the right to look good and feel good, and they have started to come out openly with their needs and wishes. All across India, especially in the metros and cities have adorned and embellished themselves to enhance their looks. More and more men have started to appreciate that nice grooming and care can add a different dimension to their looks, and that smart beauty tips will help them to enhance their appearances and inner beauty, and thereby increasing the overall prospects in their personal and professional life.
Here are some of the popular beauty tips for men which, will very useful in keeping their hectic lifestyle:
* Cleansing is the first step of beauty regimen for men. Even rugged look cannot afford dirt and spots on your face. Use good quality cleansers to keep your skin in good condition. Apply toner and moisturizer after cleansing to keep your skin smooth and flawless.
* If the skin tone of a man is not even, then don’t stand out with all the imperfections. Apply a little make-up to conceal the imperfection. Apply a little foundation on your face to make the skin tone even and to cover blemishes. First use oil-free moisturizer on your face to make your make-up long lasting.
* If you are slogging day and night your face is bound to look tired and haggard. If you are not having proper sleep and dark patches have appeared under your eyes, then apply concealer with a brush under your eyes to hide your tiredness.
* Your well-defined face will enhance your appearance. To make your face well-defined you have to resort to a little make-up. Highlight the positive features of your face with pinky-brown shade and stand out in the crowd.
* For skin care, try using a light moisturizer on the skin with sunscreen. It is just as good for men to get into a daily regimen for skin care. Do a cleansing then use an exfoliate scrub or mask and then follow with a light moisturizer. Once your skin begins to get smoother and softer, shaving won’t be such a chore.
The increasing number of men who see nothing wrong on being considered beautiful and not just handsome, and who are not averse to making the best of their look, be it while attending marriages, formal meetings or informal parties or just a get together comes under the category of a Metrosexual male.
In India Upen Patel is a prime example amongst the many who routinely and openly admit to having manicure, pedicure done and prefers a clean look and make no qualms about it. And this is not restricted to the world of art and entertainment, but men from all walks of life and career are associating themselves with metrosexualism. And this trend is going to attain more popular following in time.
Monday, December 15, 2008
The list of the best hangouts in Khar
Over the years Khar has been renowned for many things; it’s rich and diverse culture, its way of life, the spirit and zest of its people. It has also been famous as a perfect shop to eat and dine with its innumerable hotels which can satiate any taste buds.
Khar has always been a favourite destination for many of the cities work and pressure weary singles, couples or just a whole group looking to have a great time and infuse some zing back into their life. Out of the many places where you can visit, we decided to ask the youngsters to rate the five best hangouts which has turned Khar into a youngster’s paradise. And this is what we came up with:
The Banana Bar
Yes!! THE BANANA BAR at Linking Road…but hey…It’s got nothing to do with bananas, this recently launched pub does play some good retro music with a lovely tropical feel. The bar area has ample space for revelers to stand around, chat or dance.
Thursday is karaoke night Friday is salsa night and once a month they host a stand-up comedy and music show. Saturday nights the place gets a makeover and has a club feel playing regular commercial and Bollywood.
The lounge area has tables scattered around with sofas, cane chairs and a large flat-screen for cricket and football matches. The third section is out on the terrace and the comfortable cane sofas, makes it perfect for pleasant alfresco drinking blending with great music (mostly slow rock and retro), affordable prices, hookahs in the patio then The Banana Bar is definitely a great pick.
Squeeze
If you want to have a great Saturdays then ‘Squeeze’ at S.V. Road, is right up your alley, where, DJ Swapnil plays some wicked sets from Club to Hip Hop to Janta, but hey…don't forget to take lots of friends along...works well there!!
Though small; the settings are intimate. Decent drinks combing with a fresh urban hangout, four bars, a dance floor and an open air lounge with stone benches makes it an ideal locale. DJ Kumash also plays hip hop, trance, pop, and Bollywood tunes where you might bump into a Bollywood celeb. All in all, a great place to jazz the night away.
Olive & Kitchen
It’s a Restobar – Lounge at Pali Hill. The Olive Bar & Kitchen is a stylish, elegant and natural world of simplicity.
The Olive kitchen has a menu based on char grilled churasco’s, homemade pastas, fresh vegetables, and grilled fish, dressed with fresh Mediterranean herbs and Olive oil.
If you adore going to the restaurant which, has creative interiors, chic yet friendly atmosphere and unobtrusively stylish . It is a favourite watering hole for celebrities and prominent people like Oliver Stone, Tommy Hilfiger, Aamir Khan, Rahul Bose, Sharukh Khan, Malaika Arora, Karan Johar and members of the Royal family of Bhutan.
Club IX
Club IX, one of the most established names in Khar, Dr. Ambedkar Road at Pali Hill, is a nightspot favourite with the suburban crowd. Not very expensive, and pretty informal, Club IX caters to everyone from college students, to upcoming models to an older-working crowd on weekdays. They play mostly pop though regulars prefer retro. The drinks and starters are popular.
But be prepared to get squashed on the small dance floor, or go early and occupy a corner for your group to avoid getting your toes stepped on later in the evening.
Irish Pub
Irish Pub 757 S. V. Road has a green décor with drinks on the menu, good Bollywood music, smoke hookahs and Italian food. The Pub, with its hanging footballs and dartboards, and flat TV screens, looks more like a sports bar but it’s also a restaurant.
For those who’ve come for the food, there’s also a “Private Party” section with diner-style booths and tables – all green rexene, of course. Irish Pub has a warm, friendly vibe and offers some potent cocktails that make it good for a drunken night out.
Over the years Khar has been renowned for many things; it’s rich and diverse culture, its way of life, the spirit and zest of its people. It has also been famous as a perfect shop to eat and dine with its innumerable hotels which can satiate any taste buds.
Khar has always been a favourite destination for many of the cities work and pressure weary singles, couples or just a whole group looking to have a great time and infuse some zing back into their life. Out of the many places where you can visit, we decided to ask the youngsters to rate the five best hangouts which has turned Khar into a youngster’s paradise. And this is what we came up with:
The Banana Bar
Yes!! THE BANANA BAR at Linking Road…but hey…It’s got nothing to do with bananas, this recently launched pub does play some good retro music with a lovely tropical feel. The bar area has ample space for revelers to stand around, chat or dance.
Thursday is karaoke night Friday is salsa night and once a month they host a stand-up comedy and music show. Saturday nights the place gets a makeover and has a club feel playing regular commercial and Bollywood.
The lounge area has tables scattered around with sofas, cane chairs and a large flat-screen for cricket and football matches. The third section is out on the terrace and the comfortable cane sofas, makes it perfect for pleasant alfresco drinking blending with great music (mostly slow rock and retro), affordable prices, hookahs in the patio then The Banana Bar is definitely a great pick.
Squeeze
If you want to have a great Saturdays then ‘Squeeze’ at S.V. Road, is right up your alley, where, DJ Swapnil plays some wicked sets from Club to Hip Hop to Janta, but hey…don't forget to take lots of friends along...works well there!!
Though small; the settings are intimate. Decent drinks combing with a fresh urban hangout, four bars, a dance floor and an open air lounge with stone benches makes it an ideal locale. DJ Kumash also plays hip hop, trance, pop, and Bollywood tunes where you might bump into a Bollywood celeb. All in all, a great place to jazz the night away.
Olive & Kitchen
It’s a Restobar – Lounge at Pali Hill. The Olive Bar & Kitchen is a stylish, elegant and natural world of simplicity.
The Olive kitchen has a menu based on char grilled churasco’s, homemade pastas, fresh vegetables, and grilled fish, dressed with fresh Mediterranean herbs and Olive oil.
If you adore going to the restaurant which, has creative interiors, chic yet friendly atmosphere and unobtrusively stylish . It is a favourite watering hole for celebrities and prominent people like Oliver Stone, Tommy Hilfiger, Aamir Khan, Rahul Bose, Sharukh Khan, Malaika Arora, Karan Johar and members of the Royal family of Bhutan.
Club IX
Club IX, one of the most established names in Khar, Dr. Ambedkar Road at Pali Hill, is a nightspot favourite with the suburban crowd. Not very expensive, and pretty informal, Club IX caters to everyone from college students, to upcoming models to an older-working crowd on weekdays. They play mostly pop though regulars prefer retro. The drinks and starters are popular.
But be prepared to get squashed on the small dance floor, or go early and occupy a corner for your group to avoid getting your toes stepped on later in the evening.
Irish Pub
Irish Pub 757 S. V. Road has a green décor with drinks on the menu, good Bollywood music, smoke hookahs and Italian food. The Pub, with its hanging footballs and dartboards, and flat TV screens, looks more like a sports bar but it’s also a restaurant.
For those who’ve come for the food, there’s also a “Private Party” section with diner-style booths and tables – all green rexene, of course. Irish Pub has a warm, friendly vibe and offers some potent cocktails that make it good for a drunken night out.
Ashok Vaidya: The Man who gave us our Vada Pav
Nestled in a tiny room in a narrow lane, in a chawl near Dadar station resides the family of Ashok Vaidya, who started the Vada Pav in Mumbai.
The Vada pav came into existence when a snack seller outside Dadar railway station decided to experiment. He came up with a combination of batata vada and split pav.
Soon it gained in popularity and others followed Vaidya. "My father introduced the first stall of Vada pav near Dadar station in 1966. Soon vada pav stalls mushroomed all over Mumbai," said Vinayak, Vaidya's elder son, who works for a multinational company.
Ashok Vaidya passed away in July 1998. But his family, comprising wife Mangal, elder son Vinayak and younger son Narendra (who although well-educated), looks after the stall now.
"My father was a hardcore Shiv Sainik. He decided to start his own business. This business gave us a decent living, education and respect. So, even after education and the passing away of our father, we decided to run the stall," said Narendra.
"But we are thankful to the Shiv Sena, without which this would not have been possible. The police used to harass my father very often. Sena chief Balasaheb Thackeray went to Dadar police station and the local ward office and ensured that he wasn't harassed," he added.
The Vaidya family acknowledges the Sena's contribution, and is delighted that even after all these years, the party once again came forward and approached them to be vendors under the Shiv Vad scheme, which will launch vada pav stalls in July-August.
The family feels the Sena has always worked for poor people, and the scheme will provide a large market to the middle class.
"We have been in this business for 42 years. When we started off, we used to sell vada pavs at 20 paise. Now we are selling it at Rs 6. The increase of a rupee is only because of the recent hike in LPG prices," explained Mangal.
Despite facing stiff competition from McDonalds and Jumbo King, they never thought of increasing their price. Their strategy is simple. "The vada Pav is a poor man's meal. Not all middle class people can afford to spend Rs 20-25 on a burger. Keeping this is mind, we sell our vada pav, maintaining its true essence," said Narendra, who claims their USP is that one can even eat it cold.
The family is looking forward to its association with the Shiv Sena's Shiv Vada scheme.
Nestled in a tiny room in a narrow lane, in a chawl near Dadar station resides the family of Ashok Vaidya, who started the Vada Pav in Mumbai.
The Vada pav came into existence when a snack seller outside Dadar railway station decided to experiment. He came up with a combination of batata vada and split pav.
Soon it gained in popularity and others followed Vaidya. "My father introduced the first stall of Vada pav near Dadar station in 1966. Soon vada pav stalls mushroomed all over Mumbai," said Vinayak, Vaidya's elder son, who works for a multinational company.
Ashok Vaidya passed away in July 1998. But his family, comprising wife Mangal, elder son Vinayak and younger son Narendra (who although well-educated), looks after the stall now.
"My father was a hardcore Shiv Sainik. He decided to start his own business. This business gave us a decent living, education and respect. So, even after education and the passing away of our father, we decided to run the stall," said Narendra.
"But we are thankful to the Shiv Sena, without which this would not have been possible. The police used to harass my father very often. Sena chief Balasaheb Thackeray went to Dadar police station and the local ward office and ensured that he wasn't harassed," he added.
The Vaidya family acknowledges the Sena's contribution, and is delighted that even after all these years, the party once again came forward and approached them to be vendors under the Shiv Vad scheme, which will launch vada pav stalls in July-August.
The family feels the Sena has always worked for poor people, and the scheme will provide a large market to the middle class.
"We have been in this business for 42 years. When we started off, we used to sell vada pavs at 20 paise. Now we are selling it at Rs 6. The increase of a rupee is only because of the recent hike in LPG prices," explained Mangal.
Despite facing stiff competition from McDonalds and Jumbo King, they never thought of increasing their price. Their strategy is simple. "The vada Pav is a poor man's meal. Not all middle class people can afford to spend Rs 20-25 on a burger. Keeping this is mind, we sell our vada pav, maintaining its true essence," said Narendra, who claims their USP is that one can even eat it cold.
The family is looking forward to its association with the Shiv Sena's Shiv Vada scheme.
Race to Space!
Here are the efforts to find out what Nations across the world are doing to lead in the race to space!
For many years, the United States and the Soviet Union were engaged in a fierce competition—the space race. The space race began in 1957 when the Soviet Union launched the first artificial satellite, Sputnik. The Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev and the American presidents Dwight Eisenhower, John Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson and Richard Nixon all agreed that conquering outer space was very important. Both countries wanted to win—to prove their scientific superiority and to show their military strength. Soviet Premier Khrushchev wanted to show that communist technology was superior. President Kennedy wanted to beat the Soviets to the moon. The European Space Agency is investigating spaceships to carry astronauts. China is laying the groundwork for a moon shot. Even India plans to send its own astronauts into space.
Over the years, many nations have utilized a great deal of resources to explore the mysteries of the universe and creating their own way in the space race. Nations that are making progress toward putting humans in the orbit and participating in the space race:
The European Space Agency: The 17-member agency plans a March inaugural liftoff of a spaceship carrying supplies to the station. The ship could be the basis for a capsule that
would carry humans, says Alan Thirkettle, chief of the European agency's space-station program. The capsule or something like it would be designed to take astronauts to the moon.
China: It lofted humans into space in 2003 and 2005. It's likely to try a fall mission that would
feature the first Chinese spacewalk. China also plans to send humans to the moon in roughly
2025, as stated by Vincent Sabathier, who studies global space policy at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. There is "huge public support" in China for a moon mission. But, NASA hopes to return astronauts to the moon in 2020.
India: Our country blasted into the international space race with the successful launch of an ambitious two-year mission, Chandrayan-1. Packed with an international suite of science instruments, the orbiter is headed to the moon. Besides this, India is already the proud owner of a rocket capable of carrying a human crew and spacecraft into space. Last year, Indian engineers sent a small unmanned capsule to orbit and recovered it back on Earth. G. Madhavan Nair, chairman of the Indian Space Research Organization, stated in Washington that his agency has drawn up plans to develop a human spacecraft. He expects "no major hurdles" to obtain funding.
Japan: A Japanese laboratory will be delivered to the space station as early as March, and a
Japanese robotic cargo ship is scheduled to make its first trip to the station later this year. Japan will handle their day-to-day operations, the first time it has been in charge of spacecraft with humans aboard or nearby. Japan's new space policy calls for it to be ready to send humans to space in 20 years.
SPACE TERMS:
In the United States, astronaut is derived from the Greek words ástron (star) and nautis (sailor). While, in Russia, a space traveler goes by the name космонавт (English: cosmonaut),
which is derived from the Greek words kosmos (universe) and nautis (sailor). Westerners call a space traveler from China a taikonaut, based on the 1998 writings of Chiew Lee Yik and Chen Lan where the term tàikōng (great emptiness), Chinese for “space”. In China, the term yuháng yuán (universe navigator) is used for space traveler.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
A Trekkers Paradise Peth with its uniqueness manages to stay with you longer and high & above than all the others.
There are many hill stations in India, but as someone has very rightly said, some places are truly special in many more ways than what comes to mind. And Peth is definitely one of them. With soaring peaks, thriving flora, cool and soothing mountain air are the atmosphere that greets you in this tiny village of Peth around the year.
Peth, which means residence in English is also known as Kothaligad , situated in the Shahapur Taluka, approximately 21km North East of Karjat. One of the major draws of this place is that it is just 130 km away from Mumbai. Kothaligad, built at 3100 feet is ideal trekking destination, and is more commonly known as the fort of Peth because the village of Peth is situated at its base.
This fort though small in stature has immense historical significance. This fort was more of a ‘defense outpost’ than a full-fledged fort and is located at a vantage point. Peth was mainly used for ammunition storage and gained importance during Sambhaji’s era. Indeed, this place is great and bountiful, rewarding the visitor with a mix of old-country side charm, natural beauty, traditional livelihood and a great history.
“Although it is a long journey, due the spectacular sights along the way, you will enjoy your ride thoroughly. Greenery of the paddy fields and the murky brown streams crisscross the whole land. When it rains, and clouds descend from the sky to blanket the earth, the sight is truly breathtaking, said Prajakta, 21, art student, who visited this place through her field trip.
Highlights of this location:
The pinnacle of the fort is visible from the village. The view from the top resembles an endless expanse of colourful canvas. Once there, you can also see the beautiful caves carved in huge rocks. The first one is the cave of Goddess, besides it, runs a reservoir and the last one is the Bhairoba cave.
“The specialty of these caves is a flat floor and well sculpted pillars. These caves are famous for camping and make for a challenging trekking adventure which is yet not perilous. However it is advised that an expert should accompany a trekking trip in this cave for novice trekkers, said Dhanaji, 26, a frequent trekker.
Another highlight is that historical places like Kalwawantinicha Mahal, Nagfani, Siddhagad, Malanggad, Chanderi, Prabalgad, Manikgad, and Matheran that surround the fort are also visible from its apex.
“Kothaligad, is truly for nature lovers and best known for trekking. Peth is a tiny village which is devoid of any hotel for accommodation and food. Therefore it is advisable that the visitors carry their camping gears and packaged drinking water and food,” Shailesh Rane, a tour organiser.
In conclusion, don’t expect the luxury of city life here. This destination is certainly for those people who want to experience nature up and close and get a vivid taste of what wilderness is all about so close to the city.
So, if you are a nature lover, then you should mark this location on the top of your adventure holiday itinerary.
Fact File:
Location
Karjat – Peth – Kothaligad (Fort)
Weather
Mild temperate weather
Best time to visit
Monsoon and winter season
Drinking Water Facility
There are many a cisterns and tanks on the fort, but the one near the cave is reliable as long as you boil it. If you are hesitant about it then do carry packaged water as no other drinking facility is available.
How to reach
One can board a ST bus for Ambivali via Kashele or from Karjat railway station on Mumbai-Pune route. The distance from Karjat to Ambivali is about 30 Kms. You can use the roadway to Peth from Ambivali. An extensive pathway leads to the fort entrance from Peth.
On can also get down at Neral, another railway station on Mumbai-Pune route and reach Kashele by local transport and catch a bus for Ambivali.
Where to stay
The cave on the fort is the best place to spend the night.
Note: Make sure to carry your camping gear along to compensate for the lack of accommodation.
Time to Reach:
Ambivali to Peth – 2 hours
45 minutes from the base village, Peth
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Paranoid Schizophrenia – a reality check!
Kranti Khanderkar explores the much misunderstood and controversial mental ailment – paranoid schizophrenia and sheds some light on the reality and popular misconceptions plaguing those affected.
Thirty year old Smita Raut (name changed) speaks to people everyday who do not exist in reality. She speaks, hears and sees them as part of her life and doesn’t realize that they aren’t really there. If you come to the conclusion that she is possessed by a spirit or something paranormal, then you have been misled by a popular belief or superstition, rather, the real cause of her behaviour is paranoid schizophrenia, a paranoid form of the disorder.
“She usually speaks to people which she claims exist and forces her to do the things which she doesn’t want to do,” expressed Anil Arekar, brother of Smita.
"Schizophrenia, one of the most damaging of all mental disorders causes its victims to lose touch with reality. They often begin to hear, see, or feel things that aren't really there (hallucinations) or become convinced of things that simply aren't true (delusions),” explained Dr. Anand Patkar, a Psychiatrist.
Smita has been married for six year and stays with her in-laws, and a son who is five year old. “Few years back we had Ganpati at home. I and Smita were performing pooja, she suddenly had an attack and said to me that her imaginary companion was asking her to physically desecrate the Ganesh idol. That episode really stunned me for a while,” said Deepak Raut, Smita’s husband.
“Once, I and my cousin sister went to visit sister Smita. We were having a casual conversation, and out of nowhere, she revealed that sometimes she feels an urge to throw her son from the first floor,” said Sneha Naik, Smita’s cousin sister.
Without medication and therapy, most paranoid schizophrenics are unable to function in the real world. If they fall victim to severe hallucinations and delusions, they can be a danger to themselves and those around them.
The causes of schizophrenia are still under debate. A chemical imbalance in the brain seems to play a role, but the reason for the imbalance remains unclear. Reaserchers believe that you're more likely to become schizophrenic if you have a family member with the illness. Stress does not cause schizophrenia, but can make the symptoms worse.
According to Dr. Patkar, in the paranoid form of this disorder, they develop delusions of persecution or personal grandeur. The first signs of paranoid schizophrenia usually surface between the ages of 15 and 34. There is no cure, but the disorder can be controlled with medications. Counseling and group therapy help recovering patients to understand the disease and to function effectively. Severe attacks may require hospitalization.
Signs/Symptoms
Schizophrenia usually develops gradually, although onset can be sudden. Friends and family often notice the first changes before the victim does. Among the signs are:
Confusion
Inability to make decisions
Hallucinations
Changes in eating or sleeping habits, energy level, or weight
Delusions
Nervousness
Strange statements or behavior
Withdrawal from friends, work, or school
Neglect of personal hygiene
Anger
Indifference to the opinions of others
A tendency to argue
A conviction that you are better than others, or that people are out to get you
Care
TREATMENT
The treatment for schizophrenia depends in part on the stage of the patient's condition.
Hospitalization
In the early stages, hospitalization may be necessary. Hospitalization prevents patients from doing harm to themselves or others.
Medication
The primary form of treatment for schizophrenia is medication. Drugs are now available to control many of the symptoms of the disorder.
Psychotherapy
Some forms of psychotherapy can help schizophrenic patients. Behavior therapy, example, can teach patients to cope with daily activities and may improve the way they interact with other people.
Family therapy
Family members can also benefit from some forms of therapy. Family therapy may also focus on improving the family's ability to communicate with each other and solve mutual problems brought about by the disease.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Mumbai’s WIFi Future?
The Mumbaikars take on BMC’s 50-Crore plan of setting up the Citywide WiFi network for Mumbai.
Few months back, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has brought forward a citywide WiFi plan for Mumbai. According to BMC, the plan, if implemented, would allow anyone to use WiFi on their compatible laptops or mobile phones. This initiative by the BMC is a public-private partnership of sorts, in which the BMC plans to cover the entire city with WiFi coverage, albeit not free. Let’s find out the Mumbaikars take on this plan…
“Once the city is WiFi enabled, it will make possible for any user who has a WiFi enabled device to surf the web from any location in the city. Once he is connected, he will be able to move around in the city at his own will, without worrying about any connectivity hasles. - Sampada, a MSc. IT student
“Such a network would make it easy for the citizens to communicate with each other and the civic body, thus making communications easier and processing time shorter. Cyber experts, on the other hand, see this move from a different perspective. According to them, this would place Mumbai among the top technologically advanced cities in the world.
- Mandar, system administrative
“If the plan does indeed go through, it would be interesting to see how it would be implemented. According to me, it would really help if there was a single system of managing the service. Something on the lines of Mobile Recharge coupons should be implemented, wherein each user will have his own account and he is charged as per usage. We will also need to wait and see what speeds would be implemented along with the service.
- Bijosh, a young IT professional
“Installing a WiFi network is well and good. But, the misuse by some antisocial elements should also has to be taken into consideration and necessary steps which will secure the network from misuse should be made the top priority by the BMC.
- Alliston, a technology enthusiast and a student
BMC will maintain that this will be cheaper than other such services. In conclusion, the plan will certainly benefit the Mumbaikars. But before implementing it, the BMC should consider the issues like security, efficiency & servicing.
The Mumbaikars take on BMC’s 50-Crore plan of setting up the Citywide WiFi network for Mumbai.
Few months back, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has brought forward a citywide WiFi plan for Mumbai. According to BMC, the plan, if implemented, would allow anyone to use WiFi on their compatible laptops or mobile phones. This initiative by the BMC is a public-private partnership of sorts, in which the BMC plans to cover the entire city with WiFi coverage, albeit not free. Let’s find out the Mumbaikars take on this plan…
“Once the city is WiFi enabled, it will make possible for any user who has a WiFi enabled device to surf the web from any location in the city. Once he is connected, he will be able to move around in the city at his own will, without worrying about any connectivity hasles. - Sampada, a MSc. IT student
“Such a network would make it easy for the citizens to communicate with each other and the civic body, thus making communications easier and processing time shorter. Cyber experts, on the other hand, see this move from a different perspective. According to them, this would place Mumbai among the top technologically advanced cities in the world.
- Mandar, system administrative
“If the plan does indeed go through, it would be interesting to see how it would be implemented. According to me, it would really help if there was a single system of managing the service. Something on the lines of Mobile Recharge coupons should be implemented, wherein each user will have his own account and he is charged as per usage. We will also need to wait and see what speeds would be implemented along with the service.
- Bijosh, a young IT professional
“Installing a WiFi network is well and good. But, the misuse by some antisocial elements should also has to be taken into consideration and necessary steps which will secure the network from misuse should be made the top priority by the BMC.
- Alliston, a technology enthusiast and a student
BMC will maintain that this will be cheaper than other such services. In conclusion, the plan will certainly benefit the Mumbaikars. But before implementing it, the BMC should consider the issues like security, efficiency & servicing.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Cricket in Olympics?
The youngsters take on the idea of the inclusion of cricket in 2020 Olympic.
With the start of the Beijing event less than a week away, Adam Gilchrist believed that cricket has the potential to be included in the Olympic Games which will secure the game’s global future. Although, considering the success of the new format and the Indian Premier League, he said Twenty 20 is the ideal version to be included in the 2020 Olympics. Let’s find out the Gen X’s view on this issue…
“It should go to the Olympics. But before that we have to make sure that it is spread to more parts of the world, so that more countries could participate. For that we have to put in the right efforts from now on, and carry on the developmental programs side by side, so it can be part of the Games in 5 or may be 10 years,” Sherin, 22, an computer engineering student.
“There are 104 members of ICC, and amongst them, there are only 8 to 10 countries that participate. So to be part of the Olympics, it has to be truly presented as a global sport and not just a few,” expressed Abhijeet Kulkarni, senior sports journalist of Hindustan Times.
“Nowadays more and more countries have started to play cricket, including USA and China. In fact, China has committed itself to be a major cricket force in the future. So I think that by 2020, the shortest version of the game will be ready to be part of the biggest sporting spectacle, The Olympic Game,” said Harshala Naik, Editor at KPO.
“I think cricket is not ready to be included in 2020 Olympics, because hardly 10-12 countries play cricket, so to include the twenty-20 format, we need to run a campaign which will teach the world how to play cricket in the first place,” said Sanket Parab, an engineering student.
As things stand now, cricket doesn’t have a chance to be included in the near future. A lot of lobbying and horse trading is required to get a sport to be included in the Games, as evidenced by the recent controversy regarding selection of venues and the resulting bribing allegations amongst the adjudicators,” said Diwakar Seth, a jewellery merchant and a cricket enthusiast.
The inclusion of cricket in Olympics will help spread cricket in new territories and raise its popularity amongst women. Before including cricket, we need to make our cricket popular in the majority of the competing Olympic nations, by making it exciting and ground-breaking in countries that haven't yet caught the 'cricket-bug'. This will also result in cricket getting more competitive and thereby flourishing in countries where it is currently played today.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Best phrases in Hindi Cinema
The face of films has changed over the years. From a Mother India to a Munnabhai, we sure have come a long way. All these movies came and went, but some of the memorable dialogues of these movies stay on to become part of our idiom.
I asked the youngsters some of their favourite lines of the movies and find out some brilliant, romantic and silliest phrases. Take a look…
Priyanka Kini, an art student
“Amar Prem: 1971
“Pushpa, I hate tears.... inhe ponch dalo.”
Evergreen Rajesh Khanna said this dialogue to a sobbing Sharmila Tagore in the immortal love story Amar Prem.
Sonya Khan, Sales & Marketing Executive
“Pakeezah: 1972
“Aapke paon dekhe, bahut haseen hai. Inhe zameen par mat utariyega, maile ho jayenge.”
The nation sighed when Raj Kumar left this poetic note to Meena Kumari in the movie Pakeezah.
Mubashir Usmani, Mass Media student
“Sholay: 1975
“Kitne aadmi the?”
Amjad Khan played the famously feared dacoit Gabbar Singh to perfection in this 1975 classic.
Niketa Naik, an Interior designer
“Deewar: 1975
“Main aaj bhi pheke hue paise nahin uthata.”
Amitabh Bachchan’s voice had your skin tingling when he taught us a thing or two about self-respect.
Ashray Khanderkar, Science student
“Deewar: 1975
“Aaj mere paas paisa hai, bangla hai, gaadi hai, kya hai tumhaare paas?
“Mere paas maa hai.”
Amitabh Bachchan and Shashi Kapoor put the morality vs materialism debate in a nutshell with this exchange in Deewar.
Viral Joshi, an event coordinator
“Sholay: 1975
“Hum angrezon ke zamaane ke jailor hain.”
Asrani’s Great Dictator-inspired character had everyone in splits when he warned prisoners with a lathi.
Hiren Desai, Advertising Student
“Sholay: 1975
"Tumhara naam kya hai, Basanti?"
We can never forget this funny dialogue of Amitabh Bachchan which is said sarcastically to Hema Malini
Kuldeep Jalan, Advertising student
“Kaaliya: 1981
“Hum jaha pe khade ho jaate hein, line wahi se shuru hoti hai.”
Amitabh Bachchan said with poise in a jail when a person who disterving food said him to be in a cue.
Abhishek Shah, Sales and Marketing Executive
“Souten: 1983
“Jinke ghar sheeshe ke hote hai, woh batti bujha ke kapde badalte hain.”
A villainous Prem Chopra said these words. What happens in daylight, we wonder!
Ramesh Bansode, clerk, Bank of India
“Shahenshah: 1988
“Rishte mein to hum tumhare baap lagte hain, naam hai Shahenshah,”
Who can forget an over-the-hill but stylish Amitabh Bachchan and his studded leather jacket in Shahenshah?
Shweta Damankar, Teacher, Oxford School
“Baazigar: 1993
“Kabhi kabhi kuch jeetne ke liye kuch haarna bhi padta hai, aur haar ke jeetnay wale ko baazigar kehte hain.”
Shah Rukh Khan`s signature line comes when he meets Kajol on the racetrack for the first time in Baazigar.
Manish Solanki, Account Executive
“Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge: 1995
“Bade bade deshon mein, aisi choti choti baatein hoti rehti hain, Senorita.”
A dimpled SRK played the lover boy to perfection in the India`s biggest ever hit.
Kushdeep Singh, Entertainment student
“Devdas: 2002
“Babuje ne kaha gaon chor do, maa ne kaha haveli chor do, sab ne kaha paro ko chor do, paro ne kaha sharab chor do, phir ek din ayega jab woh kahega ke duniya hai chor do.”
Shahrukh Khan at his best in the Sanjay leela bhansali's classic DEVDAS.
Juhi Verma, student
“Om Shanti Om: 2007
“Jab bhi kissi cheez ko dil se chaho
to puri qayanaat usse tumse milane mein lag jaati hain.”
Shahrukh Khan expressed his passion to Shreyas Talpade in the Om Shanti Om.
Niyati Bane, a commercial art student
“Om Shanti Om: 2007
“Pictue abhi baki hain mere dost.”
SRK to Sreyas Talpade.
Today, we are celebrating our 61st year of Independence. Indian cinema played a vital role in the history of India. Pre-independence, the kind of films being made in India was full of patriotic fervour, full of messages and full of morality. On the other side, Independence brought with it a freedom that was creative in the extreme and this was reflected in our films.
Here are some films which successfully depicted Patriotic theme in the movies:
Gandhi (1982), directed by Richard Attenborough,
Shaheed (1948), Diip Kumar starrer,
Naya Daur (1957),
Jagruti (1954), old, starring Abhi Bhattacharya,
Jis Desh Men Ganga Behti Hai (1960), made by Raj Kapoor,
Old film Sangram (1993),
Leader (1964), Dilip Kumar starrer,
Nastik (1983), made by I.S. Johar
Son of India (1931), directed by Mehboob Khan
The face of films has changed over the years. From a Mother India to a Munnabhai, we sure have come a long way. All these movies came and went, but some of the memorable dialogues of these movies stay on to become part of our idiom.
I asked the youngsters some of their favourite lines of the movies and find out some brilliant, romantic and silliest phrases. Take a look…
Priyanka Kini, an art student
“Amar Prem: 1971
“Pushpa, I hate tears.... inhe ponch dalo.”
Evergreen Rajesh Khanna said this dialogue to a sobbing Sharmila Tagore in the immortal love story Amar Prem.
Sonya Khan, Sales & Marketing Executive
“Pakeezah: 1972
“Aapke paon dekhe, bahut haseen hai. Inhe zameen par mat utariyega, maile ho jayenge.”
The nation sighed when Raj Kumar left this poetic note to Meena Kumari in the movie Pakeezah.
Mubashir Usmani, Mass Media student
“Sholay: 1975
“Kitne aadmi the?”
Amjad Khan played the famously feared dacoit Gabbar Singh to perfection in this 1975 classic.
Niketa Naik, an Interior designer
“Deewar: 1975
“Main aaj bhi pheke hue paise nahin uthata.”
Amitabh Bachchan’s voice had your skin tingling when he taught us a thing or two about self-respect.
Ashray Khanderkar, Science student
“Deewar: 1975
“Aaj mere paas paisa hai, bangla hai, gaadi hai, kya hai tumhaare paas?
“Mere paas maa hai.”
Amitabh Bachchan and Shashi Kapoor put the morality vs materialism debate in a nutshell with this exchange in Deewar.
Viral Joshi, an event coordinator
“Sholay: 1975
“Hum angrezon ke zamaane ke jailor hain.”
Asrani’s Great Dictator-inspired character had everyone in splits when he warned prisoners with a lathi.
Hiren Desai, Advertising Student
“Sholay: 1975
"Tumhara naam kya hai, Basanti?"
We can never forget this funny dialogue of Amitabh Bachchan which is said sarcastically to Hema Malini
Kuldeep Jalan, Advertising student
“Kaaliya: 1981
“Hum jaha pe khade ho jaate hein, line wahi se shuru hoti hai.”
Amitabh Bachchan said with poise in a jail when a person who disterving food said him to be in a cue.
Abhishek Shah, Sales and Marketing Executive
“Souten: 1983
“Jinke ghar sheeshe ke hote hai, woh batti bujha ke kapde badalte hain.”
A villainous Prem Chopra said these words. What happens in daylight, we wonder!
Ramesh Bansode, clerk, Bank of India
“Shahenshah: 1988
“Rishte mein to hum tumhare baap lagte hain, naam hai Shahenshah,”
Who can forget an over-the-hill but stylish Amitabh Bachchan and his studded leather jacket in Shahenshah?
Shweta Damankar, Teacher, Oxford School
“Baazigar: 1993
“Kabhi kabhi kuch jeetne ke liye kuch haarna bhi padta hai, aur haar ke jeetnay wale ko baazigar kehte hain.”
Shah Rukh Khan`s signature line comes when he meets Kajol on the racetrack for the first time in Baazigar.
Manish Solanki, Account Executive
“Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge: 1995
“Bade bade deshon mein, aisi choti choti baatein hoti rehti hain, Senorita.”
A dimpled SRK played the lover boy to perfection in the India`s biggest ever hit.
Kushdeep Singh, Entertainment student
“Devdas: 2002
“Babuje ne kaha gaon chor do, maa ne kaha haveli chor do, sab ne kaha paro ko chor do, paro ne kaha sharab chor do, phir ek din ayega jab woh kahega ke duniya hai chor do.”
Shahrukh Khan at his best in the Sanjay leela bhansali's classic DEVDAS.
Juhi Verma, student
“Om Shanti Om: 2007
“Jab bhi kissi cheez ko dil se chaho
to puri qayanaat usse tumse milane mein lag jaati hain.”
Shahrukh Khan expressed his passion to Shreyas Talpade in the Om Shanti Om.
Niyati Bane, a commercial art student
“Om Shanti Om: 2007
“Pictue abhi baki hain mere dost.”
SRK to Sreyas Talpade.
Today, we are celebrating our 61st year of Independence. Indian cinema played a vital role in the history of India. Pre-independence, the kind of films being made in India was full of patriotic fervour, full of messages and full of morality. On the other side, Independence brought with it a freedom that was creative in the extreme and this was reflected in our films.
Here are some films which successfully depicted Patriotic theme in the movies:
Gandhi (1982), directed by Richard Attenborough,
Shaheed (1948), Diip Kumar starrer,
Naya Daur (1957),
Jagruti (1954), old, starring Abhi Bhattacharya,
Jis Desh Men Ganga Behti Hai (1960), made by Raj Kapoor,
Old film Sangram (1993),
Leader (1964), Dilip Kumar starrer,
Nastik (1983), made by I.S. Johar
Son of India (1931), directed by Mehboob Khan
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Get Seasonal
For the fashion conscious city-folks, rain is no constraint to flaunt the really hip and funky look. Kranti Khanderkar catches up with youngsters, fashion designers and make-up artists on the latest fashion in this rainy season.
Fashion fundas of monsoon
Shilpa Dhanmeher, 29, a fashion designer said, “People are not at all looking clumsy during Monsoon. They are more concerned about their look in rainy season. Markets are flooded with some very feminist transparent and colourful knee length raincoats. Sporty and branded Winchesters are in this monsoon for boys. Big size, transparent and colourful bags are in used. Also, a lot of stylish and colourful sports shoes and crocs in pink, light brown, blue are in vogue in this period. One should experiment with lots of loud colours like blood red, flashy yellow and experiment with the deep range in geometrical patterns and other designs in this season.”
Rainy make-up
Sharing cosmetic tips for the monsoon, make-up artist Rajashree Nayak said, “During Monsoon one should go for waterproof make-up. For this you have to buy separate lipstick, foundation, lip gloss, eyeliner, pan cake, mascara according to your skin tone, as every person has different skin tone. If possible try bright, gloomy colours and use branded such as L’Oreal and Maybelline products which help to stay your make-up longer during rainy season. Girls should be decked up with just the right cosmetics suited for the rainy season. For the overall look of the face, translucent powder should be used so that the person looks colourful during the dull monsoon."
[As far as Facial is concerned go for ‘cold facial’. One should go for mud pack pedicure.
You must applied sun control during this season.
Serum, body lotion with moisturizing and nail protection should be used instead.] box use
Accessories in fashion
Beads jewellery is appropriate for all the seasons and occasions, as there are varieties of beads and designs available. Beads earrings, necklace, bracelets and ankle-lets are evergreen, as it never goes out of fashion. However, wooden and stone beads are really in fashion these days. You can buy beads of your choice which are easily available in the market today.
Priyanka, Interior designer, 23, said, “I preferred to use beads jewelry. They are not expensive, therefore you can have one each matching with your dresses. I have also bought up some of exact colours of my dresses. The best part about beads is that it is available in lot of colours and varieties and also I can use them in all season.”
Be as simple as you can
Niyati, an artist, 20, said, “I really love wearing capres and skirts. Now that rainy season is here, so avoid wearing white colour attires. I have bought shirts with big graphic and flowery prints in colours like red, green and sky blue! They really work in the rainy season.”
Let your hair enjoy this monsoon
Sonya, 24, Marketing Executive, said, “I have got my haircut in layer cum step which looks bouncy. They look superb when they get wet in rain. And what's good is the fact that they require less maintenance.”
Neelaxi, a hairstylist said, “During monsoon, shoulder length hairstyles are in. Mostly girls preferred to trim their hair. Layers in messy look like disconnected layers and notched layers are in vogue. The best part is that these kinds of haircuts can be left untied or tied, and they are zero maintenance.”
This monsoon brings you a lot of varieties in fashion, so go ahead and enjoy rain, get wet and yet remain stylish and in.
For the fashion conscious city-folks, rain is no constraint to flaunt the really hip and funky look. Kranti Khanderkar catches up with youngsters, fashion designers and make-up artists on the latest fashion in this rainy season.
Fashion fundas of monsoon
Shilpa Dhanmeher, 29, a fashion designer said, “People are not at all looking clumsy during Monsoon. They are more concerned about their look in rainy season. Markets are flooded with some very feminist transparent and colourful knee length raincoats. Sporty and branded Winchesters are in this monsoon for boys. Big size, transparent and colourful bags are in used. Also, a lot of stylish and colourful sports shoes and crocs in pink, light brown, blue are in vogue in this period. One should experiment with lots of loud colours like blood red, flashy yellow and experiment with the deep range in geometrical patterns and other designs in this season.”
Rainy make-up
Sharing cosmetic tips for the monsoon, make-up artist Rajashree Nayak said, “During Monsoon one should go for waterproof make-up. For this you have to buy separate lipstick, foundation, lip gloss, eyeliner, pan cake, mascara according to your skin tone, as every person has different skin tone. If possible try bright, gloomy colours and use branded such as L’Oreal and Maybelline products which help to stay your make-up longer during rainy season. Girls should be decked up with just the right cosmetics suited for the rainy season. For the overall look of the face, translucent powder should be used so that the person looks colourful during the dull monsoon."
[As far as Facial is concerned go for ‘cold facial’. One should go for mud pack pedicure.
You must applied sun control during this season.
Serum, body lotion with moisturizing and nail protection should be used instead.] box use
Accessories in fashion
Beads jewellery is appropriate for all the seasons and occasions, as there are varieties of beads and designs available. Beads earrings, necklace, bracelets and ankle-lets are evergreen, as it never goes out of fashion. However, wooden and stone beads are really in fashion these days. You can buy beads of your choice which are easily available in the market today.
Priyanka, Interior designer, 23, said, “I preferred to use beads jewelry. They are not expensive, therefore you can have one each matching with your dresses. I have also bought up some of exact colours of my dresses. The best part about beads is that it is available in lot of colours and varieties and also I can use them in all season.”
Be as simple as you can
Niyati, an artist, 20, said, “I really love wearing capres and skirts. Now that rainy season is here, so avoid wearing white colour attires. I have bought shirts with big graphic and flowery prints in colours like red, green and sky blue! They really work in the rainy season.”
Let your hair enjoy this monsoon
Sonya, 24, Marketing Executive, said, “I have got my haircut in layer cum step which looks bouncy. They look superb when they get wet in rain. And what's good is the fact that they require less maintenance.”
Neelaxi, a hairstylist said, “During monsoon, shoulder length hairstyles are in. Mostly girls preferred to trim their hair. Layers in messy look like disconnected layers and notched layers are in vogue. The best part is that these kinds of haircuts can be left untied or tied, and they are zero maintenance.”
This monsoon brings you a lot of varieties in fashion, so go ahead and enjoy rain, get wet and yet remain stylish and in.
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Sari Rules In The World
In India India
It’s at the core of Indian Culture.
It personifies the shape of a woman.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Life Is A Learning Experience
Journalism is considered to be among the most noble and respected professions in the world. And at the helm or the pinnacle of this noble profession sits the editor. The Editor is the guiding force, the inspiration and in some cases the face of this noble profession.
The Editor is the leader who not only is responsible for the content that goes into his publication or the broadcast medium that he heads, but is someone who is a motivator , a team player who is able to get the best out of the team that he is part of.
Having received the opportunity to be the Editor of the fifth edition of Friday has allowed me to gain a knowhow and an understanding of the ground realities and appreciate the many exciting challenges and testing opportunities that editor is faced with on a regular basis.
I also realise the editor is also good as team that is working with. The bond, working relationship and more importantly the coordination that, the editor has with the people, who are vital and instrumental in the final product are the key factors which influence the efficiency and quality of the output which I found out the hard way during the work of this edition.
Also, one of the most underestimated aspects of education is the indifference and apathy shown towards out-of-box thinking and the importance of practical learning. And, an essential component in practical learning is the contribution of internship and apprenticeship. The tenure as an intern prepares and increases the understanding of the career that the students have chosen and as a bonus allow them to meet and interact with some great people and thorough professionals. This is similar to a budding cricketer sharing the dressing room with sports legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Roger Federer, just imagine the possibilities.
But, I have been among the lucky students who have had such an opportunity, and I’m happy to say that have cherishing every minute. I hope many will have the same opportunity that I have had.
My edition and the opportunity to be an intern in a reputed publication have given me the ideal platform to taste life as a journalist and test my metal in the real world. Now, I am more prepared and ready than ever to take up journalist with vigour and passion; accepting the challenges that lie ahead and bracing myself to take them head on. Cheers!!
The Editor is the leader who not only is responsible for the content that goes into his publication or the broadcast medium that he heads, but is someone who is a motivator , a team player who is able to get the best out of the team that he is part of.
Having received the opportunity to be the Editor of the fifth edition of Friday has allowed me to gain a knowhow and an understanding of the ground realities and appreciate the many exciting challenges and testing opportunities that editor is faced with on a regular basis.
I also realise the editor is also good as team that is working with. The bond, working relationship and more importantly the coordination that, the editor has with the people, who are vital and instrumental in the final product are the key factors which influence the efficiency and quality of the output which I found out the hard way during the work of this edition.
Also, one of the most underestimated aspects of education is the indifference and apathy shown towards out-of-box thinking and the importance of practical learning. And, an essential component in practical learning is the contribution of internship and apprenticeship. The tenure as an intern prepares and increases the understanding of the career that the students have chosen and as a bonus allow them to meet and interact with some great people and thorough professionals. This is similar to a budding cricketer sharing the dressing room with sports legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Roger Federer, just imagine the possibilities.
But, I have been among the lucky students who have had such an opportunity, and I’m happy to say that have cherishing every minute. I hope many will have the same opportunity that I have had.
My edition and the opportunity to be an intern in a reputed publication have given me the ideal platform to taste life as a journalist and test my metal in the real world. Now, I am more prepared and ready than ever to take up journalist with vigour and passion; accepting the challenges that lie ahead and bracing myself to take them head on. Cheers!!
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Is godliness lacking in Suburbs?
Over the years Suburbs have been renowned for many things. Its rich and diverse culture, its way of life, the spirit and zest of its people and it’s definitely no coincidence that is considered by many as the ideal place to call home.
But for the past some years, the face of Suburbs has undergone the most drastic change that it has witnessed in any other time in Suburbs recent history. There is construction activities visible all around, be it in the west or the east side of our beloved stations.
The population of Suburbs have only been increasing at a greater pace than ever, be it casual visitors or permanent settlers. It has taken a toll on the public amenities meant to ensure hygiene and sanitation for its people, what this has done is made us ignorant to the falling standard of cleanliness in Suburbs.
As many of us might have experienced already, it’s a really difficult task in itself to find a public loo when nature comes calling. You have to be lucky enough to be in a mall, if not in a really descent hotel to find some relief. In the end, you end up forcing yourself into any one of the two as a last resort. Even though this is what many of you might have done, but then there are those who, either intentionally or under compulsion are forced to go in public.
Toilets sound a bit unsophisticated but in actuality many have been victim of this shortfall in infrastructure but have not confessed openly. Some of the areas which urgently require public toilets are band stand, carter road, and the area surrounding Joggers Park.
Looking at the density of Suburbs, the number of public toilets is grossly inept. This has increased the cases of defecation in public, and no matter how much we tried to avoid it, we have been subjected to this grotesque sight some time or the other. Apart from its many ills, the impact it has on the sensibilities of the public has often been overlooked.
Yet another issue that this throws up is the issue of making those in charge accountable, and introduction a system of audit based on fair check and balances.
Does development only mean how many malls, theatres and buildings once can construct with the most profit? Or does the satisfaction and general happiness of the public be the major yardstick? It is therefore said that development without proper vision and planning could only lead to chaos.
It is upon us as a responsible citizen, as a youth, and as the major stakeholder in the future of Suburbs to either sit back and rest on our laurels or adopt a more proactive approach in shaping our future. This could only happen if we all can take control of our present and take steps which can guarantee a better tomorrow.
But for the past some years, the face of Suburbs has undergone the most drastic change that it has witnessed in any other time in Suburbs recent history. There is construction activities visible all around, be it in the west or the east side of our beloved stations.
The population of Suburbs have only been increasing at a greater pace than ever, be it casual visitors or permanent settlers. It has taken a toll on the public amenities meant to ensure hygiene and sanitation for its people, what this has done is made us ignorant to the falling standard of cleanliness in Suburbs.
As many of us might have experienced already, it’s a really difficult task in itself to find a public loo when nature comes calling. You have to be lucky enough to be in a mall, if not in a really descent hotel to find some relief. In the end, you end up forcing yourself into any one of the two as a last resort. Even though this is what many of you might have done, but then there are those who, either intentionally or under compulsion are forced to go in public.
Toilets sound a bit unsophisticated but in actuality many have been victim of this shortfall in infrastructure but have not confessed openly. Some of the areas which urgently require public toilets are band stand, carter road, and the area surrounding Joggers Park.
Looking at the density of Suburbs, the number of public toilets is grossly inept. This has increased the cases of defecation in public, and no matter how much we tried to avoid it, we have been subjected to this grotesque sight some time or the other. Apart from its many ills, the impact it has on the sensibilities of the public has often been overlooked.
Yet another issue that this throws up is the issue of making those in charge accountable, and introduction a system of audit based on fair check and balances.
Does development only mean how many malls, theatres and buildings once can construct with the most profit? Or does the satisfaction and general happiness of the public be the major yardstick? It is therefore said that development without proper vision and planning could only lead to chaos.
It is upon us as a responsible citizen, as a youth, and as the major stakeholder in the future of Suburbs to either sit back and rest on our laurels or adopt a more proactive approach in shaping our future. This could only happen if we all can take control of our present and take steps which can guarantee a better tomorrow.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Here Start Dirty Politics Again!
Everyone witnessed the recent Jaipur and Ahmedabad blast that killed 50 people and injured more than 100. Experts, professionals and almost every individual criticized this shameful act of terrorism, but do you know how our political leaders reacted on such a terrifying incident? Yes, you should aware of it.
The leaders of our two major political parties; the Congress and BJP started pointing fingers at each other rather than joining hands to fight terrorism.
BJP leader Sushma Swaraj claimed that the blasts were a conspiracy hatched by the Congress to divert attention from the cash for trust vote allegations, and to bring back the Muslim votes in UPA’s kitty, while Congress reverted back by threatening to employ to seek legal course over the allegation.
No matter what major problem the county is facing today, these parties seem not to be unconcerned about it. They are too engrossed in their bloody old blame games and are only interested in deriving political points in every tragedy. They are just concentrating on gaining more and more votes in the upcoming 2009 elections.
Instead of analyzing the condition of our country and the people at present, they have started blaming each other which is really irrational and silly. I haven’t seen them trying to find a solution or remedy to this threat to Indian integrity and ensuring security for its people, instead, it looks like they are busy digging out each other’s mistakes, and use this episode for their own good.
But now, it’s time when they have to think beyond their political realm and step out of their dream and face reality. According to me, pointing fingers at each other for a particular act doesn’t lead them toward any solution. For that, they really have to be united (by keeping their so called ideologies and grudges aside) and converge all their effort toward this war against terror, as one.
The leaders of our two major political parties; the Congress and BJP started pointing fingers at each other rather than joining hands to fight terrorism.
BJP leader Sushma Swaraj claimed that the blasts were a conspiracy hatched by the Congress to divert attention from the cash for trust vote allegations, and to bring back the Muslim votes in UPA’s kitty, while Congress reverted back by threatening to employ to seek legal course over the allegation.
No matter what major problem the county is facing today, these parties seem not to be unconcerned about it. They are too engrossed in their bloody old blame games and are only interested in deriving political points in every tragedy. They are just concentrating on gaining more and more votes in the upcoming 2009 elections.
Instead of analyzing the condition of our country and the people at present, they have started blaming each other which is really irrational and silly. I haven’t seen them trying to find a solution or remedy to this threat to Indian integrity and ensuring security for its people, instead, it looks like they are busy digging out each other’s mistakes, and use this episode for their own good.
But now, it’s time when they have to think beyond their political realm and step out of their dream and face reality. According to me, pointing fingers at each other for a particular act doesn’t lead them toward any solution. For that, they really have to be united (by keeping their so called ideologies and grudges aside) and converge all their effort toward this war against terror, as one.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
The Real Motives of Terrorism
Recent news of 17 blasts in Ahmedabad in 90 minutes was really terrifying. After this incident unknown terrorist organization came into the terrorist picture i.e. Indian Mujahideen. They have taken the responsibility of Ahmedabad blasts by sending a 14 page email to Indian news channels which explains why they carried out these blasts, and what are their next targets. They even claimed that these blasts are revenge against the state of Gujurat for their arrest and torture of their brothers, including in SIMI.
Through this mail, they have also threatened to make more strikes in MP, Maharashtra and other parts of India. I think their real motive behind this mail seem to create panic and hatred among people of different religion in the country. Nothing else!In past years, these organisations became successful in doing so and claimed that they had done these blasts for the benefits of certain communities. Now, the question is, are these terrorist organisations really concerned about these communities. If you think about it, the answer will be certainly No!
We all witnessed the 7/11 Mumbai blasts, which were done by Al Qaida. And if we remember the people who died in this act were not of any particular religion, but of every religion and castes.
If you consider all the bomb blasts which have taken place in Mumbai, Jaipur, Banglore or Ahmedabad, they are just mere act of terror.
Secondly, terrorism has no face, no boundary, no beliefs, no humanity and even no religion. But according to the perceptions in the major part of the world including India, Islam and Muslims have become synonymous with terrorism, which I think is very sad!As we know, the murder of a single man, not guilty of any heinous crime is akin to murdering the whole humanity. And people who are responsible for such crimes are Terrorists, who works only for money, for themselves, for the fulfillment of their desires at any cost.
According to me, the motives behind such acts are to kill people irrespective of any religion, to create panic and hatred among the people of different religion, not only by attacking them physically (killing people) but also psychologically (mental trauma, fear of terror), which is I think is more poisonous in any case. Now, the only way to defeat their dastardly plan is by, each and every one of us, as an individual and even the media standing together and handling this situation very maturely.
Through this mail, they have also threatened to make more strikes in MP, Maharashtra and other parts of India. I think their real motive behind this mail seem to create panic and hatred among people of different religion in the country. Nothing else!In past years, these organisations became successful in doing so and claimed that they had done these blasts for the benefits of certain communities. Now, the question is, are these terrorist organisations really concerned about these communities. If you think about it, the answer will be certainly No!
We all witnessed the 7/11 Mumbai blasts, which were done by Al Qaida. And if we remember the people who died in this act were not of any particular religion, but of every religion and castes.
If you consider all the bomb blasts which have taken place in Mumbai, Jaipur, Banglore or Ahmedabad, they are just mere act of terror.
Secondly, terrorism has no face, no boundary, no beliefs, no humanity and even no religion. But according to the perceptions in the major part of the world including India, Islam and Muslims have become synonymous with terrorism, which I think is very sad!As we know, the murder of a single man, not guilty of any heinous crime is akin to murdering the whole humanity. And people who are responsible for such crimes are Terrorists, who works only for money, for themselves, for the fulfillment of their desires at any cost.
According to me, the motives behind such acts are to kill people irrespective of any religion, to create panic and hatred among the people of different religion, not only by attacking them physically (killing people) but also psychologically (mental trauma, fear of terror), which is I think is more poisonous in any case. Now, the only way to defeat their dastardly plan is by, each and every one of us, as an individual and even the media standing together and handling this situation very maturely.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Bhutia’s Olympic Torch Controversy
Recently, the captain of India’s national football team refused to carry the Olympic torch in protest over China’s handling of recent unrest in Tibet. He became one of the first athletes in the world who had refused to carry the torch. His actions had won him praise from the Tibetan community and its supporters in India. But his action also came in for criticism from some sections of society.
Now the question is…should he have or shouldn’t he have declined to carry the torch? It is surely a difficult decision for Bhutia who is a Buddhist from the north-eastern state of Sikkim, which borders Tibet, so is very close to Tibetians, geographically, emotionally as well as culturally, due to which he chose not to carry the Olympic torch. But if you ask me whether I agree with his decision or not, then my answer will certainly be No!
According to me, he should have carried the torch, as he is one of the finest sportsmen of India, and he also should have taken into consideration that he was among the chosen few who were offered this unique honour to carry the torch by the Indian Olympic Association on behalf of India and not China. Other thing is that Olympic torch relay was organised by IOA, not by China, which was held in Delhi, so refusing it didn’t make any sense even though he justified his step by saying that this is his way of standing by the people of Tibet and their struggle.
And secondly, participating in the relay means you are representing the sports community of India and the country as a whole in the world. He should also have appreciated the fact that Olympic is the platform of conveying message to the masses. Keeping this in mind, rather than refusing it, he should have carried the torch to support Tibet cause alike Amir Khan, which could have helped him in giving positive message to its supporters and Tibetians.
Instead of refusing, if he could have chosen to wear a black attire or band, as a mark of protest against the Olympic being held in China, could have proved more effective measure in creating mass awareness against China, the country which is violating the Human rights of Tibetians. Also, by doing this, his stand could have definitely given a fillip to anti-Chinese protest that flared across Tibet.
Now the question is…should he have or shouldn’t he have declined to carry the torch? It is surely a difficult decision for Bhutia who is a Buddhist from the north-eastern state of Sikkim, which borders Tibet, so is very close to Tibetians, geographically, emotionally as well as culturally, due to which he chose not to carry the Olympic torch. But if you ask me whether I agree with his decision or not, then my answer will certainly be No!
According to me, he should have carried the torch, as he is one of the finest sportsmen of India, and he also should have taken into consideration that he was among the chosen few who were offered this unique honour to carry the torch by the Indian Olympic Association on behalf of India and not China. Other thing is that Olympic torch relay was organised by IOA, not by China, which was held in Delhi, so refusing it didn’t make any sense even though he justified his step by saying that this is his way of standing by the people of Tibet and their struggle.
And secondly, participating in the relay means you are representing the sports community of India and the country as a whole in the world. He should also have appreciated the fact that Olympic is the platform of conveying message to the masses. Keeping this in mind, rather than refusing it, he should have carried the torch to support Tibet cause alike Amir Khan, which could have helped him in giving positive message to its supporters and Tibetians.
Instead of refusing, if he could have chosen to wear a black attire or band, as a mark of protest against the Olympic being held in China, could have proved more effective measure in creating mass awareness against China, the country which is violating the Human rights of Tibetians. Also, by doing this, his stand could have definitely given a fillip to anti-Chinese protest that flared across Tibet.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Today, there are no ideologies in Politics
For the last few months, whatever has transpired in the Indian politics were quite shocking to all of us. The Left withdrew support from UPA, and went with the BJP, BSP is now leading a third front which they claim is targeted against nuclear deal, inflation and poverty.On paper, it sounds fair enough. But are they seriously concerned about the masses or are they just concerned about their own interest, or do they just want to extract some revenge on the UPA? These are the question that the people of this country is faced with.Whatever might be the reason, they have to answer to the aam janta who don’t have faith on any party after the trust vote drama in the parliament, which will stand out as a black day in Indian Political History.
As I know Political parties in India love to talk about ideology. Each political party is supposed to have an ideology. So, even if a political party does not have any ideology, it will never say so. If you were to ask probing questions about a party's ideology to a staunch loyalist of the party, they might decline, but I'm sorry to say that currently no party except may be for the Congress has any semblance of an ideology, if they do, it's tainted.
As Left withdraw support from UPA, as it is obvious, they are against the Indo-US nuclear deal for many years, and their ideology is different from Congress, and of course they despise the US. But when they supported BJP in the trust vote, I found it shocking as well as hilarious, as there is no connection between these two ideologies.One is a socialist relic, anti-US and pro-China, another is the Hindu ultra conservative party, forming the fundamentalist far right, if I’m not mistaken.
Other sad thing is that during the trust vote, they were proclaimed and were egging on Mayawati to the Prime minister chair. What was happened to the Left.It seemed like they have lost their senses and only had revenge on their mind. The real question is, how one party can forget their ideology just to keep UPA out of power. How unethical is that? This 123 agreement not only raised the issue of trust vote but also forced us to think about where Indian political parties are headed towards and they aim to lead us and the country. They keep changing their ideologies as per their own interest.It seems, all are just playing dirty politics and are keen in gaining only votes from the people. They are not at all loyal to their own ideologies, so the question is, will they be loyal with us, the public for long?
Today, our country without hope is in a danger zone, and cannot afford to remain in this zone for long. A new ideology and a new political party is the need of the hour. As the new principles and party takes shape, we can either curse our luck for living in this hour of crisis, where is void and chaos among ideology less parties and unethical parties or we can work for heralding a new sunrise.
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