Naren's Insight

"3 Idiots" movie in HongKong

2011-10-22T21:06:00.002+05:30

3 Idiots movie running in Hong Kong. I am not sure whether Aamir khan have fans in HK or coz of Chetan Bhagat.

HongKong Trip - Part 2 Ocean Park, Avenue of Stars, NgongPing360

2011-10-22T00:48:00.004+05:30

Day3: Ocean Park

Entering Ocean Park

Ocean Park is an animal theme park and amusement park. This is one of key attraction for kids.We left our hotel around 9:30 am and took MTR to Admiralty Station and catch City Bus to Ocean Park.This City bus was double decker bus and my daughter was excited to travel in the upper deck. we reached the Ocean Park Entrance. Since it was some holiday, there was long queue for getting Tickets. There are 3 major counters: Normal Ticket counter, Voucher Counter(Airlines or Package Tour) and Online tickets(Shortest Queue). Since my Ocean Park Tickets are part of my package, I need to wait for Half an hour in Voucher counter.

Gaint Panda

Once you get Tickets, First thing you need to collect is Map and also Show Schedule.Ocean Park consist of two levels:Water Front (at entrance gate level) and The Summit(Top of hill). These two levels are connected by Cable Car(Out of Order for maintenance) and Ocean Express. Water Front is more for Animal lovers and small kids. The Summit consist of adventure rides. Since my kids more interested in animals, we thought of covering Water front first. we first went to Gaint Panda Habitat to see Panda. Panda is one of rarest animal in world and also costliest animal. Its very difficult to sustain the in artificial Habitat. In Ocean Park, Panda is kept in artificial habitat and also breed over there.Whole of that pavilion is air conditioned and with green vegetation in it. we saw mighty Panda sitting and eating its food. Its really great to see elegant panda. I am sure every animal lover would like to see the same.

we went to Grand Aquarium. This aquarium is very nice and maintained very well. we can see sharks, Sea horse, Nemos(Clown Fish), Star Fish, sea urchin and many types of crabs.This is one of Must see attractions.

Jelly Spectacular

we visited Panda Village to see Red Panda. It was one of fascinating creature and very cute one. I remember Red Panda character in Jungle Book with Mowgli. we saw some Alligator and Otters over there. Then we visited Gold Fish treasures where they kept different varieties of gold fish. They also have display wild gold fish(.If you want to see more pretty gold fishes, I would suggest you to visit GoldFish market).Then we took kids for some rides like carousal, Toto The Loco and some games. we planned to check out the show at Whiskers Theatres. Its show with Sea Lion.(Not good, not Recommended). Then we went to Amazing Bird Theatre for Birds Show(Ok type, Not so special).we had our fast lunch near there.

Its already 3:00 PM, we took Ocean Express to go the Summit level.we saw Sea Jelly Spectacular. It was really great to see colour full Jelly Fishes.(Must see one).

Then we walk towards Ocean Theater to watch Dolphin and Sea lion Show.

Dolphin Show in Ocean Theater

Then we went to check out some rides. Eagle, Abyss, The Dragon and also Rain Forest ride along Rapids are very good.

How to Reach:
- Take MTR to Admiralty station Exit B and Take City Bus route no 629\

Suggestion:
- Try to reach ocean Park as early as 10:00 am to avoid queues.
- Many of shows are not upto expectations(cannot be compared with Sea world, Universal Studio), we can skip the same and also most of them are in Chinese.
- If you like rides then go to Summit. If you like animals then go to Water front.
- Don't get souvenirs from Ocean Park, you can get better one in Disneyland

Avenue of Stars:
we had our dinner around 7:30 Pm in McDonalds at Admiralty Bus Terminus and went to Avenue of Stars.
Avenue of Stars is one major landmark of HongKong. This is built to pay tribute to HongKong actors.This is like "Walk of Fame" in Hollywood. This is built on the Tsim Sha Tsui water front.This provides view of Victoria Harbor and also skylines across HongKong Island from Kowloon Side(Exactly opposite view from The Peak).I can see stars and hand imprint of Jackie Chan, Bruce Lee and Jet Li.This provides Stunning view during Day time and electrifying view in Night.Its worth to see the both views.

Avenue of Stars

How to Reach:t
- Take MTR to Tshim sha Tsui station Exit J

Suggestion:
- Try to reach there around evening 5:00 PM, so that you can stay until Symphony of lights show at 8:00 PM

Day4: NGongPing 360
Nextday was our last day in HK city.we planned to cover Gaint Buddha at NgongPing village and go to market for shopping. we took MTR to Tung Chung Station, to reach Cable Car terminal.Since this Gaint Buddha is on top of mountain, we need to take cable car to reach NGongPing Village.This Cable car ride provides magnificent views of HKIA, Colorful ocean and also lush green mountain. we booked Crystal Cabin cable which has glass bottom. This is really worth to spend on Crystal Cabin. This cable car crosses sea, goes across steep slopes of mountain, along lush forest and reaches Cabin Car terminal after 45 minutes.

Across Ocean

Glass Bottom Crystal Cabin

Lush green Forest with Water Fall

Gaint buddha from Cabin

Towards Gaint buddha

From the terminal, we need to walk along NGongPing Village to reach Gaint Buddha. On the both sides, lots of souvenir shops and restaurants are there.we started climbing steps to reach the Gaint Buddha. we got some good pics and nice view from the top of mountain. while coming back, we had checked some souvenir shops.we came back to cable car Terminal and came down.

we checked out CityGate Outlets near Tung Chung MTR. This is one of biggest Factory outlet mall in HK.we took MTR to HongKong.

How to Reach:
- Take MTR to Tung Chung station Exit B

Suggestion:
- Try to reach there early to avoid long queues.
- Try to round trip ticket.
- Should try "Crystal Cabin" - Must Try one - Dont Miss it ..!!
- Check for VISA promotional offers.

Day4: Stanely Market:
we went to HK MTR and took city bus from Exchange Square Bus terminus to Stanley town. This is on South Side of HongKong Island. Stanley is place where British setup their first admin office before moving to central area. Most of British settlers stay in this part. Stanley promenade has lots of restaurants serving delicious foods. Stanley market is one traditional Chinese style street market to get many authentic Chinese items, dress, toys, ornaments and bags.The Prices were much more reasonable than Ladies market and temple market. This market close by 6:00 PM.

How to Reach:
- Take MTR to Central/HK, then take bus 6,6A, 6X from Exchange Square Bus Terminus

Suggestion:
- Since market closes at 6:00 PM reach there accordingly.

HongKong Trip - Part 1 The Peak, Madam Tussauds Museum, Macau

2011-10-05T23:12:00.000+05:30

Recently after getting passport for my younger kid, I thought of planning vacation out of country. Since my daughter is crazy fan of Princess and Mickey, we decided to go to HongKong Disneyland. One of other reason for selecting HongKong, its perfect blend of Natural Beauty, City Life, Night life and famous for street markets.

I was looking for flight tickets from Bangalore. Since direct flights of expensive, i thought of hopping through Singapore and to try in AirBus-A380 from SGP to HK. Since i was travelling with Kids(.5yrs & 1.5yrs), i dropped the plan as it would be very tired. But I got good offer package from Cathy Pacific(Air Tickets + Hotel + One attraction). So started planning with package of 3N/4D and ended with 5N/6D. Cathy Pacific is very flexible, that they postponed the tickets without any extra charges. This package had option of hotels across the HongKong, I was looking for one in Kowloon Side and near to MTR (Metro Rail Station). So i shortlisted couple of option, then based feedback in TripAdvisor, i chose "The CityView" in Yau Ma Tei.

Initially my plan is to cover "The Peak", Avenue of Stars, Madame Tussauds Museum, Ocean Park and Disneyland in 4Days. Then i decided to extend couple of days to cover Macau and Ngongping as per my friends suggestions.

Day -1 : Arrival to HK, The Peak, Madame Tussauds Museum.
Day -2 : One day trip to Macau
Day -3: Ocean Park, Avenue of Stars
Day -4: NgongPing, Gaint Buddha
Day -5: Disneyland
Day -6: Disneyland & Dep to Bangalore

Day -1:
Since it was first abroad trip to my kids, they were very much excited. As our flight was scheduled to depart at 2:40 am, my kids were tired .Our flight landed in HK airport as scheduled time around 11:00 am. I would suggest you to get Window seat, as its really good to see while landing. HK International Airport is on man made Island and the runway is surrounded both sides by sea. you can feel like landing on sea.

On arrival before going to immigration, we collected few Tourist City Maps(one normal Map, which tells about various tourist destinations and how to reach there and another map will give some kind of 3D view all buildings and tourist destinations.The second Map is not available outside immigration so don't miss to pickup it). Since we landed on weekend, we waited in long queue for immigration. HongKong is SAR(Special administrative Region) of China . Except from tourist from few countries(who needs HK visa), all others including Indians will get Visa on arrival to stay for 2 weeks(no visa charges). After immigration and collecting check in baggage, we proceed towards arrival hall. we can see many counters for all transport, tourist infos and also forex. Regarding Forex, they charge more conversion fee.we went straight to Airport Express counter to collect our Airport Express tickets and Octopus card. Airport Express train is fastest way to connect to HK Airport and HK city. It charges 90HKD to Kowloon and 100HKD to HongKong. Another advantage is that Airport Express offers free shuttle service from Airport Express Stations to certain Hotels which is very convenient.Other than that there City buses, Shuttles(Vigor), Taxi available. People going to Shenzhen(Mainland China) and Macau can directly go to Ferry Terminal near airport.

Towards Airport Express station

Since i had some Asia miles, i redeemed the same to get Airport Express tickets to Kowloon and also collected Octopus Card. This is very useful card which can be used in all public transport in HongKong(MTR, City bus, Ferry, Tram, in super market stores(Circle-K and 7-Eleven) and also in many food joints).We can add value to this card and also we can return the same to get refund the balance money.It took exactly 20 minutes to reach Kowloon and from there we took Airport Express Shuttle "K5" which dropped us in our Hotel "The City View". This was another reason for choosing this hotel.we got our room at 23rd Floor. It was nice view from there.This hotel is right next to A2 exit of Yau Ma Tei MTR, Near to KFC and can find 7-Eleven and Circle -K stores adjacent to it.

View from our room in "The City View"

The Peak & Madam Tussauds Museum:

Peak Tram Station

After relaxing for sometime, We took MTR to reach "The Peak Tram" terminus. Since it had rained, climate was very humid. As it was weekend, there was huge queue over there. we collected 2-in-1Combo ticket(Peak Tram two way + Madam Tussauds) which is cheaper than getting separate ticket for Peak Tram and Madame Tussauds. Since it was raining and weather is not clear, we didn't get 3-in-1 combo which includes SkyTerrace also.It was so crowded that we wait there for Half an hour.

The Peak Tram was one of oldest mode of transport to "The Peak". It goes at inclination of 45 degree.

45 degree view from Tram

Try to get Window seat on Right Side to get better view. Peak Tram reaches much faster than city bus which goes from Exchange Square Bus Terminus. Madam Tussauds is located in the same building where Peak Tram terminus is there. There are lots of restaurants and shops.Since rain stopped, we took ticket for Sky Terrace and went to highest viewing point in HK. we can get stunning view of Victoria Harbour, Skylines of HongKong Island and Kowloon side view. we took some pics and proceed towards Madam Tussauds Museum.

View from Sky Terrace in The Peak

Princess Diana in Madame Tussauds

Madam Tussauds wax museum has wax figures of Hollywood actors(Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie,Nicole Kidman, Johnny Depp) , Asian actors(Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Big-B), famous leaders(Obama, Clinton, Sadaam, Hitler, Gandhiji), Royal Family Members(Princess Diana), SportStars(David Beckham) and Pop Stars(MJ, Madonna, Lady Gaga). It feels good to take the pic with famous personalities.Its very interesting to see the people clicking the Pics in different poses. We had great time and enjoyed pics with all personalities. This is really worth to visit.

After that we had our Snack in Burger King. Once we came out , it was dark and could see another view of HongKong(Night view of lighted Sky scrapers). We came out of Peak Tower and went to Lion's Pavilion(Free View point). It was Spectacular view of whole HongKong Sky crappers and it was really magnificent one. This is must see one. The view from Lion's pavilion is almost same as view from SkyTerrace(Its not worth to spend 30HKD for Sky Terrace entry).

Night View of HongKong from Lions Pavilion, The Peak

Then we return to Central MTR by taking The Peak Tram.

How to Reach:
The Peak can be reached by taking City Bus15 from Exchange Square Bus Terminus(right next to HongKong MTR Exit D). You can reach the peak by taking "The Peak Tram". You can reach Peak Tram Terminus by taking Exit J3 from Central MTR and walk down the Garden Road. Reaching Peak by Tram is much faster and suggested way.

Suggestion:
- Try to reach Peak in evening around 5:00 PM. so that you can enjoy Day view and also Night view.
- Try to get Combo Tickets, this will be cheaper.

Ladies Night Market:
We took train to Mongkok and reached the Ladies Market.This is place to get dress for kids, Ladies, some toys, Handbags, Belts, Souvenir, Bags, T-shirts and jeans.(These are not Branded items).This is like famous Janpath in New Delhi. This market is open until 10:30 pm and its fully crowded. we need to do good bargaining to strike the deal. Be Careful while bargaining, Some shopkeepers are very aggressive. if you are not interested in buying any item, don't bargain. we can see many shops selling kinky stuffs like underwear with elephant face with trunk(Be Ready to answer your kids questions;-)). You can also get HongKong Souvenirs like TShirts and magnets.

How to Reach:
Take train to Mong Kok MTR Station Exit E2, then walk along Nelson Street.

Suggestion:
- Test for your bargaining skill but be careful.

Day -2: Macau:

Macau is another SAR of China. Macau is known as Vegas of Asia and famous for its night life. Macau is also famous for its Historic heritage and Grand prix. Macau was colony of Portuguese. This is around 60kms from HongKong by Sea(approximately 1hour travel). There are ferries operating from HongKong Island(CotaiJet and TurboJet), Kowloon(First Ferry) and from HKIA. Since we stayed in Kowloon, we decided to go via New World First Ferry. This Ferry terminal is near Tsim-sha-tsui MTR and Harbour City Mall.

We reached ferry terminal around 8:15 am. Since it was Sunday, we could not get tickets at 9:00 am Ferry.we got tickets at 9:30 am Ferry and also we booked return tickets at 8:30 pm from Macau in advance(suggested as it will be very crowded). Please check for promotional Offers. we got offer of buy 3 tickets and Get 1 free(1 ticket 259HKD, Tickets needed for Infants also). we need to undergo immigration as we are going out of HongKong.Since we were travelling in high speed ferry for first time, It was very different and also uncomfortable(like riding on the Speed Breakers on Road).we reached Macau at around 10:30 am. Once long queue for Immigration coz it was weekend. In Macau local currency is Pataca(1 Pataca = 1HKD). Even HKD is acceptable everywhere, Local buses don't accept the same. In the Macau Ferry Terminal, there are automatic currency converter machines which can convert HKD to Pataca. Dont forget to collect Tourist Map for Macau tourism stall.if you are interested in going for one day guided tour, you can find may travel agent who offers one day tour in Cab(roughly around 180HKD per person).Since Macau is very small place, I would suggest you to go for self exploring tour.

A-Ma Templ

Our Initial plan was to go to Macau Tower(Take 32 from Ferry Terminal).Since weather was gloomy and not clear, it doesn't make sense to go there. so we skipped it we took bus no 10A to A-Ma Temple(also Bus no 5 and 10). Since all display in buses are in Portuguese, its very difficult to understand the current location of bus on GPS display. Its better to check the place with co-passengers. This goes through Wynn (on left side), Grand Lisboa(on right Side), Senado Square(on right side). Then we reach A-Ma temple(on right side). This is one of ancient and famous temple of goddess of Fishermen.This temple is very beautiful and can see people worshipping with big incense sticks.This is one of must see place.

Senado Square

Then we took the same bus on opposite direction towards Senado square. This was once center of city when Macau was Portuguese colony. This place is paved by Striped Mosaic kind of Portuguese pavement. This place is enclosed with buildings of Portuguese architecture.This places surrounded by lots of shopping places and also many place to eat. This places was decorated for chinese newyear and was looking awesome.we walked towards St Dominic's church.

Egg Tart

Then we walked towards St Paul Ruin's.The whole of streets on both sides full of eating places, shops selling Chinese kites, BBQ & Steaks and Bakery.One of must try is Portuguese Egg Tart and Koi Kei Bakery's Almond cakes and Peanut biscuits. Portuguese Egg tart has puffy base with mix creamy sweet egg. its yummy to have it and its really good snack. Another must try is Almond Cakes(like biscuit) and Peanut Biscuits(like Chikki or Kadalai mittai) from Koi Kei Bakery. this is one of oldest bakery and should try the same. Then we walked towards St Paul Ruins. This was one of oldest church but it was destroyed in 18th century. After clicking some pics, we took same bus from Senado square towards square of Lisboa/Wynn.

Ruins of St. Paul

Grans Lisboa

Dragon of Fortune in Wynn

From here starts modern macau . From this square, we can see grand Lisboa, Wynn and MGM casino. Every Casino offers different kid of entertainments from Kids to Adults and also from Free to tickets around 500HKD.We went to Wynn Casino, we saw Musical fountain show over there. You can check out giant chandelier in "Tree of Prosperity" and also "Dragon of Fortune". These will happen for every half an hour.Please check out Jelly fish aqua inside the Casino. Kids and Pets are not allowed in casino. Another good thing about the casino is that they also provide free shuttles to Ferry terminals. so we took Wynn free shuttle to ferry terminal and then took City of Dreams free shuttle to go to another casino City of Dreams in Cotai Strip.

Mermaid Show, City of Dreams

Cotai Strip is reclaimed area between Taipa and coloane Island. This is connected through 4.5Km long friendship bridge across the south china sea. It was full traffic jam on the bridge, so we had small power nap while travelling there in Shuttle. City Of Dreams is second largest Casino resort in Macau. It has two major hotels inside(Grand Hyatt & Hard Rock hotel). First attraction in City of Dreams is Vqaurium(Mermaid Show - Free one). This is really fascinating to someone dressed like mermaid and performing. we can feel as if real mermaid swimming along other fishes. Then we checked out "Dragon Treasure show"(popularly known as Bubble Show, Ticket 30HKD). This is 360 degree 3D multimedia show depicting story of dragon kings. check out the video belowThis projects everything as very lively.This is also must watch one.Another show which no one should miss is "House of Dancing Water"(ticket 100HKD). This is expensive but worth to watch it. Since we didn't have booking and its Sunday, we could not get tickets. There is also kids play area known as Kidscity.We had great food in Food Court(it also have McDonalds inside). Right across City of Dreams on the other side of road is "The Venetian", Biggest Casino in Macau. This is sister casino of "The Venetian Resort" in Vegas.

Grand Canal Shoppes

Inside Venetian

"The Venetian" resort is largest casino in Macau. Its interiors are like Italian Gothic Architecture.It looks like palace from inside.The whole of ceiling is decorated with paintings in french style.we went to towards "The Grand Canal shoppes". This is one of best place to shop if you are really looking for Branded stuffs. The whole buildings in this place are in Gothic style and it also have small Venice style Grand Canal with Gondola ride. It makes us feel as if we are in Venice. The whole of ceiling looks like bright blue sky.This is one of best place to took pictures.

Fun Ice World

Then we went to "Fun Ice World"(ticket 100HKD). This is Indoor ice exhibition where world famous structures are carved in Ice. This place is kept at -15'C. they also provided Jackets for kids and Adults.Its good to see Statue of Liberty, Taj Mahal, Eiffel tower. There is Ice Slide and Carousel made for Kids. There is another special show in "The Venetian" known as "Zaia" show(ticket 500HKD). This is kind of acrobatic and Dance performance which is worth to watch. we return back to Ferry terminal and left to HongKong. we were very tired as we had walkathon from the morning in Macau.

Venice in Macau

How to Reach:
In Macau, best way to travel is to take Free shuttle to casino from Ferry Terminals. The public Bus service is available, you can refer to Macau Tourist map for the route number. It costs 10HKD for above trip per person in City Bus.

Suggestion:
- Plan Macau one day trip in weekdays(coz in weekends waiting time in immigration is too long)
- Except local buses, HKD is accepted everywhere.
- Other attractions Macau Tower, MJ Gallery in Ponte 16

General Suggestions:

Forex - I would suggest you to get HKD from local Forex available in your place. They will provide good exchange rates.
Travel - Go for Octopus Card, its very convenient and very cost effective

Made in India

2011-05-17T01:06:00.002+05:30

Tejas - Low Combat Aircraft which is designed and manufactured in India. Hats off to HAL.

Break Ke Baad

2011-05-16T22:49:00.002+05:30

Its been years that i had blogged. Life is going busier day by day...!!
Many things come into mind to write. But somehow not able to spare time on blogging.
One thing keep me in touch is through the comments on blog. So i thought blogging my recent trip.

Funny Linux Adv

2008-01-23T00:36:00.000+05:30

In world without fences and walls, who needs gates and windows?

Funny One...!

Stages of life ..!!

2008-01-23T00:26:00.001+05:30

Innovative picture revealing stages of life...!!

Watch this ...!!

2008-01-23T00:21:00.000+05:30

Funny Video ...!! Watch it..!!

Thanks Navneet San.

An Incident to share....really sad one.

2008-01-21T09:28:00.000+05:30

I went to Kaniyakumari for this Christmas vacation. After having breakfast in the hotel, i was walking along the market. One guy followed me and asked for me that Do i need Tiger Nails ? (puli Nagam) Usually people used to put in the ornamental Gold chain. He seems to like tribal man (looking somewhat like Narikoravan), he told that he had got it from forest near Mudumalai and Bandipur (Near ooty). On curiosity , I asked to show the same. He showed the two Nails attached to the Paws and the long string(might be some muscle tendons) was there. By seeing the Nail size and color of the paws, it could be tiger. he mentioned its price is about Rs2000.

I am not sure whether it could be real Tiger's one or some other wild animal. I feel very bad about that because Tiger is one of prestigious and Fascinating animal for India. Because of the some Hippocratic people, all the animals were killed. I had read about the Tibet , China and Japan were having huge market for Tiger's products.Every time newspaper flashes news of poachers arrested. I couldn't imagine, how many were killed. if this happens like this, In future we can Tigers only in Book.

Everyone in world, Please considerate about the Wildlife..!!

Colorful ..!!

2008-01-21T08:49:00.001+05:30

New Camera..!!

2008-01-21T08:34:00.000+05:30

After analysing for long time, i decided to go for the SonyDSLR-A100. Its 10 MP DSLR with CCD sensor from Sony. After SONY bought Konica Minolta, its first step into SLR camera is DSLR-A100. The Main advantage for me to go for it is Image Stabilizer which is not available in the Nikon D40X or Canon 400D and Olympus.

I had taken few pics, it seems to awesome, but needs to read to understand all the features.

Soon will update with some good pics...!!

Tata Nano

2008-01-21T08:06:00.000+05:30

TATA rocks the world by introducing the Ultra Cheap Low cost Mini Car Tata Nano for Rs 1 lakh (2500 $). This was mentioned as People's Car by TATA. Few years back when Maruti Launched its first Maruti 800, It was huge hit in Indian automotive markets. This Nano is 625 cc , 5 seater, Hatch back car, with good ground clearance to suit to Indian roads.

TATA is targeting the people who were using still the 2-wheelers (Motorbikes). People who are spending Rs 60K on the Motorbikes will need to give a thought about the Nano.

This has really shaken the US, Germany and Japanese Auto Hubs. This is also having great potential in Chinese market. People are wondering about the price of the car because High end Car Infotainment System is around costing 2400$ (roughly).

I don't know what will happen in Bangalore if the Two Wheelers are replaced with Tata Nano, I think we need to walk to office. :-)

Taare Zameen Par...!!

2008-01-21T07:49:00.000+05:30

I saw the movie Taare Zameen Par (means Stars on Earth) was movie by Aamir khan, which protrayed the story of little boy affected by Dyslexia. This movie is not a entertainer.
First Half was depecting how the boy struggles with inablity to grasp the things faster and Second half is how he comes out of the same with help of his beloved teacher. Its really touches feelings and emotions of everyone and depicts how little boy feels while parents started ignoring him and teachers started scolding him daily. Its one of the best movies of 2007.
This is must watch movie for all parents and Teachers.

All are born Genius.

Haan..!! Kafi Taare Zameen par hai..!! Kisiko patha Nahi ...!!

Umbrella by Rihaana

2008-01-21T07:39:00.000+05:30

Recently i got to hear the song "Umbrella" by Rihaana. Its too good to hear and too too good to watch. Watch and Enjoy ..!!

Updates after long time

2008-01-21T07:25:00.000+05:30

Since my last blog update in Sep 2007, Its almost 4 months that i didn't update my blog. The reason is 60% Busy and 40% Laziness. :-). Usually busy with my kid and busy with my new Hobby (Any Guesses) of keeping Fishes as Pets.Yes, I had become Fish Hobbyist. I will update on the same very soon.
My blog is 1 year old now, but the saddest part is that i couldn't get time to update the same regularly. Every time i thought of updating regularly, Hope to continue the same with updating regularly.

Missing NOIDA

2007-09-20T23:23:00.000+05:30

Changes in the life are always Inevitable...! After 8 years of staying in NOIDA, I decided to come down south. Its not a easy decision, but need to go ahead with that. Whenever i had think of Noida,its very special to me. I really achieved many things in my career and personal life. So it always cherishes me.
I still remember me the day when i came to NOIDA 8 yrs back without even knowing how far its from delhi. Since at the time , I was fresher out of college and looking for a break through in getting job. With help of one my best friend (advisor, nice and simple gentleman, lives in Singapore now) , I got a chance to attend the interview in Noida. I got through the interview and settled in a job.
Few years Back:-

Just to stand in Ganga shopping complex chick watching
Remember the weekend cricket during winters, still luv it :-) in Sector 30 Park.
weekend trips to various places in Delhi by DTC.
Waiting for sale in Lajpat Nagar by any brands.
Planning trips during some holidays along weekends (Bhadkhal lake, Manali, Nanintal, Mussourie).Though we couldn't see much but enjoy in mini buses along with friends
Enjoying the daily ride in Banghel bus to sector 37 to NEPZ.
Roaming in Atta market during the New year eve in winter.
After leaving that company guest house, staying in Raju's house
Got to know many new peoples, most of people come in search of job, some succeeded and few return back.
watching kids playing in our apartment park.
Got new yamaha bike, one of my childhood dream.
Going to delhi to watch night show movie to Chanakya and PVR Theatre
Food in Andhra bhavan
Going in cab to Karolbagh for shopping.
Swimming in Sec 15A club, enjoyed it ;-)
First International trip - NEPAL via UP (really funny one)

Recently:-

Along with friends in Cafe Coffee day in Atta market.
Kathi rolls before Debon Meat Shop in Sector 29.
Great food from Karims, Swagat, the Kabab factory , Bercos and masala magic.
Great parking in Great India place.
Late night movie shows in Waves.
Driving in DND and Greater Noida express way.
Half an hour nap in our AC buses to office.
Metro in Delhi
Malls like Great India place, centerstage mall, shipra mall, Ansal plaza Pacfic mall and ofcourse gurgaon malls.
Accessability of everything within 10 mts of drive. (well planned city)

Even though there are also few moments of unhappiness also, lots of moments to cherish.

Tour De Grenoble

2007-09-16T05:46:00.000+05:30

Whenever i sit to update my blog, something pops up in between. I thought of updating my trip to France by end of May. As i was in transition state (Transit in Job and shifting new place), it was really very difficult for me to get some time to spare for blogging.

This trip is always special because its my first trip to Europe. Grenoble is small Town near the Lyon in south east of France. Much closer to Swiss and Germany. It lies in the valley covered by Alps on three sides and lies in between two rivers (R.Drac and R.Isere). Its with full of scenic beauty, Even in the summer its surrounded by snow capped peaks.

This trip was really break for me from Delhi's Summer. As expected, Europe is so beautiful. The whole way to Grenoble from Lyon is rich in the scenic beauty. While comparing to the US, Roads are small , we can see many small cars and hatchbacks (mostly Renault, Volvo, Bmw, Volks, & Audi ).

Its so small city with buildings depicting the typical french architecture. City is connected well by the Tramways which goes through the streets. Its really difficult without knowing french. Its very difficult the french way of pronunciation (like shopping known as "Grant Place" which is pronounced as "GoPlaa"). Everything from TV program to Newspaper is in french, so its difficult to time pass. There are all kind of foods available and variety of restaurants.French people are very friendly and fun loving people. They also care very much about the physique. Its very common that people come to office in bicycles. Every road has separate lanes for Bicycles. French Girls are very pretty ;-) . Since France is famous for its wines, people love to eat and drink. French desserts are awesome. PDA (public display affection) is very common. French people are very hospitality in nature and also very helping in nature.

Comparing to US, France is much better, very friendly , very beautiful. But France is much costlier, everything except the alcohol is very costly. Even the French perfumes are much costlier.

click here for pic

Road to Success

2007-07-23T10:26:00.000+05:30

The road to success is not straight.
There is a curve called Failure, a loop called Confusion,
speed bumps called Friends,
red lights called Enemies,
caution lights called Family.
You will have flats called Jobs.
But, if you have a spare called Determination,
an engine called Perseverance,
insurance called Faith,
you will make it to a place called Success.
- Unknown

"Work is ultimate Seduction"

Global Warming ..!!

2007-07-23T10:24:00.001+05:30

Indian Lion goes Onsite...!!

2007-07-23T10:17:00.000+05:30

In a poor zoo of India, a lion was frustrated as he was offered not more than 1 kg meat a day.
The lion thought its prayers were answered when one US Zoo Manager visited the zoo and requested the zoo management to shift the lion to the US Zoo.

The lion was so happy and started thinking of a central A/c environment, a goat or two every day and a US Green Card also. On its first day after arrival, the lion was offered a big bag, sealed very nicely for breakfast.

The lion opened it quickly but was shocked to see that it contained few bananas. Then the lion thought that may be they cared too much for him as they were worried about his stomach as he had recently shifted from India.

The next day the same thing happened. On the third day again the same food bag of bananas was delivered.The lion was so furious, it stopped the delivery boy and blasted at him, 'Don't you know I am the lion...king of the Jungle..., what's wrong with your management?, what nonsense is this?, why are you delivering bananas to me?'

The delivery boy politely said, 'Sir, I know you are the king of the jungle but .. did you know that you have been brought here on a monkey's visa!!!

Moral of Story : Better to be a Lion in India than a Monkey elsewhere!!!!!

All Indian IT Lions in US, Just have a Thought .... !!!

Humayun's Tomb

2007-07-19T20:57:00.000+05:30

Though, I am in Delhi for almost 8 years, I had heard about Humayun's Tomb But didn't get chance to see it.

Last weekend, Just thought of checking it out. Humayun's Tomb was the first monument built in Persian architecture(even before Taj Mahal is built). Many people from Persia were invited to build this massive structures.

If you are really intrested in Mughal Architectures, then just check it out....!!

Guess What...!!

2007-07-19T20:49:00.000+05:30

.
.
.
.
.
.
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Entrance Wall of Iza Khan tomb, Delhi. Its made of Red Sand and stones.

Avril Rocks once again..!!

2007-07-04T12:38:00.000+05:30

Avril Lavigne's latest song Girl Friend is really kool ...!!

- Avril Lavigne Lyrics

Leh Ladakh Trip

2007-07-02T20:58:00.000+05:30

Few years back, i got chance to watch a documentry on Ladakh and was fascinated by its beauty of Brown barren mountains , Topped with creamy White layer of snow and clear Blue sky. I read that its very different and can't see these type of beauty in anywhere in world. So i decided to plan a trip to Leh. After browsing the internet, I got my package booked through Overland Escape. I would really appreciate Mr Tundup in arranging best accomodation, best food, good driver to guide us and also meeting with each and every guest.

Initially most of my friends were telling the Leh is very isolated place and very different place. So i was suggested to be careful also. My flight to leh was at 5:20 am from delhi. I was expecting some ATR kind of small aircraft, but it was Airbus , almost filled. Lots of forigners travelled with us. It was really nice to see the snow capped mountains from the Flight. Then we landed in the Leh Airport known as Kushok Bakula Rimpoche airport , It was highest commercial airport in the world(at about 3000 metres altitude). It very tiny airport, covered by mountains on all sides and very secured. I could see the bright sunshine in the morning 6:30 am.

After reaching the hotel, We were asked to take rest the whole day that we need to get acclimatised to the high alititude. Less oxygen content in the high alititude can cause Mountain Sickness and i was suggested to take Diamox tablets. But i didnt feel anything rather than feeling sleepy as i woke at 4 am in the morning. From our hotel, we could see the view of Leh Palace and temple in the mountain top. our hotel manager was telling that i am his first guest to carry my 6 months baby to Leh. anyway i got know from some forums that baby's can easily adjust to climatic conditions. so it was not a problem.

After lunch, we got introduced with our cab driver and guide who greeted with "Juley" in ladakhi langauge meaning "Hello". I like the way he speaks hindi always telling "Bilkul" and "HaanJanab"(like Haanji). we went to Shanti Stupa, it was stupa in top of a hill where we could see the whole Leh town. Then we went to Leh palace, which is a minituare of Potala palace in Lhasa, Tibet. But it was not well maintained and some renovation were going on. we also went Monastery in Sankar. we went to market in Leh, we could find lots of tibetean items. Leh is famous for Turquoise stones. we can see lots of unpolished Turquoise stones there. We went to Ladakhi hotel to have Momos, Tupka and Gudgud chai (like Soup). There people drink only pressurised bolied water. since the water is rich in minerals they need boil it in pressure.

Next day, we planned to visit the Monasteries trip. we started towards the Hemis monastery. we went in the Leh-Manali highway, Manali is aroun 430 kms from Leh. The Road seems to be very flat and like in plains. we can see the barren grounds on both sides of road. This was like natural play ground. we were going along the Indus river. Then we reach the Hemis monastry, it was one of oldest monasteries. we could see the mountains with slate rocks over there. Then we visited the Thiksey monastery, it was bigger than Hemis and in the top of a cliff. From there we can see breathtaking view of valley along indus. As i was intrested to see the Bactrian Camel, Camel with two humps and lives in Gobi desert in mongolia. I had read that few of them are found in the Ladakh also. so we went to a farm near by, where we saw the Bactrian camels and its calves, its been breeded here, its with long furs. Then we visited the Stok Palace museum. i could ladakh royal families dresses, weapons and few antiques. we gotta chance to see the preserved Snow leopard and Aibex.

Next day, we started in the morning for Khardung La, It was highest motorable road around 18000 feet (6000 meters app) above the sea level. Though it was around 35 kms from Leh, it took around 2 hours to reach there. Since the road was very narrow and uphill, its really difficult to drive in that road. Also it was covered with thick fog and drizzling was there. This is the road to Nubra Valley (valley of flowers) which is near the PAK border. we could see lots of army vehicles going towards Nubra valley. we can see snow covered peaks over there and beatiful scenic views. we received snow fall over there. we were taking some pics over there, but army guys advised us to go down as we were having baby. but Disha was always kool and enjoying the weather. All the roads were maintained by BRO (Border Road Organisation), Thumbs Up to them as their service is incredible. Then we went to see the Pather sahib gurudwara in Leh-Srinagar highway. Then we went to see the confluence of two rivers Indus and Zanskar, it was amazing to see the different colours of water getting mixed up. Next we stopped at Magnetic Hill, it was place on the road, where we stopped the our car in neutral, it was pulled uphill. it was really gr8 to see it. I feel like it should be like "Bermuda triangle" ;-) . even locals said the fully loaded army truck could be also pulled. but no reason to explain the same.

Next day morning, we started early morning to Pangong lake, it was 160 km from leh via chang La. it was really hectic journey, but its worth to travel, to see it. we travelled uphill until changla and down hill towards Tangste. we could see the yaks grazing on the lushy grass lands. we could see nice view of the snow peaks. then we reached the Tangste, from there Pangong lake is around 35 km. we can see the roads going in between two mountains. we can see the ladakhi wetlands where its marsh lands with grass and mud. we can see lots of horses, ponnies and cows grazing there. then after we minutes of travelling, we could see the sand dunes and very fine sand grey in colour (like the beach sand). we can also see the layers of it. I think dats the way its called as Cold desert. Then we reached the Pangong lake, its 120 km long. 40 km inside india and 80 kms in china. It was like ocean, bluish in color, so big. Its a salt water lake, where there is no aquatic life. water is so crystal clear that we could see the bottom. we can see the stones in the lake which is having minerals deposited. It was place that we should not miss to see it. It was very cold and windy with bright sunshine. then we had our lunch in resort in tangste and started to leh. we reached changla and had a break over there. It was very cold and i felt head ache after going out. Its coz oxygen is very less in that alititude, so we started down hill to reach the leh.

then next day, i left to delhi.

Few things i wished to convey:

- Leh is magnificent place which is makes us to feel like that we were in europe, with lots of naturalistic beauty and very clean. It excellant place for Trekking, Mountain climbing, Rafting, Kayaking, Biking and Cycling across mountains.

- My salute to Army people, who were working in high altitude where normally we can't spend even few minutes there. I heard that winter will be very bitterly chill in leh where temperature go below -20'C.

- I would really appreciate Border road Organisation, for providing excellant roads.

- Many thanks to Mr Tundup and Mr Phunchok (our diver).

"From Kashmir to Kaniyakumari, our Bharath is Ek"

click here for pic

Mahiya - Lover Gal

2007-06-18T09:29:00.000+05:30

Recently got a chance to hear this song. Intially someone told that this was sung by IIT student, But atlast singer was found to be Annie - Paki Singer. Her voice is very kiddish and nice. Lyrics also too good. Lyrics are in English and Punjabi.

Click Here For Video

Lyrics is as follows:

Mahiya
Artist: Annie

i wish u could see urself the way i see ya

u shine juss like a star mahia

cuz ur my only pyar mahia

maine tujh ko he dil may basaya

tu hi mera pyar mahia X2

tu nay aisee adda say mujhay dekha

dil ho gya nisaar mahia

tu hi ha mera pyar mahia x2

tu nay aisee adda say mujhay dekha

dil ho gya nisaar mahia

tu hi ha mera pyar mahia x2

y dont u tell me mahi

ma mid at ease

how do u wish to see the loyalty in me

appnee wafa iqrar kya karoon

mar jaoon hudh ko jo tujh say juda karoon

tu nay aisee adda say mujhay dekha

dil ho gya nisaar mahia

tu hi ha mera pyar mahia x2

mahai u r i set ma soul on fire

i felt juss like a rose mahia

when i was in ur arms mahia

i cant imagine that like without u where i'd be

im ur lady i'll go where ever u take me

terey beghair jeenay ki khaish nahin

main terey saath hoon lay chal mujh ko kahin

tu nay aisee adda say mujhay dekha

dil ho gya nisaar mahia

tu hi ha mera pyar mahia x2

mahia ur i set ma soul on fire

i felt juss like a rose mahia

when i was in ur arms mahia

i don't care where we go or stay or wut we do

ill take u r bain consider becuz i love u

jaisay bhi haal main rakhoo gay main rahoon

dukh bhi milay to pyar main haans kay sahoon

tu nay aisee adda say mujhay dekha

dil ho gya nisaar mahia

tu hi ha mera pyar mahia x2

i wish u could see urself the way i see ya

u shine juss like a star mahia

ur my only pyar mahia

maine tujhh ko he dil may bhasaya

tu hi mera pyar mahia X2

mahia ur i set ma soul on fire

i felt juss like a rose mahia

when i was in ur arms mahia

3-D Audio Effect

2007-06-18T09:27:00.000+05:30

Came across this link. Do Plugin your Headphones.

Click Here

Really Nice one, Worth listening it.

Beginning Today

2007-05-03T09:12:00.000+05:30

Beginning Today

Beginning today, I will no longer worry about yesterday.

It is in the past and the past will never change.

Only I can change by choosing to do so.

Beginning today, I will no longer worry about tomorrow.

Tomorrow will always be there, waiting for me to make the most of it.

But I cannot make the most of tomorrow without first making

the most of today.

Beginning today, I will look in the mirror and I will see a person

worthy of my respect and admiration.

This capable person looking back at me is someone I enjoy spending time

with and someone I would like to get to know better.

Beginning today, I will cherish each moment of my life.

I value this gift bestowed upon me in this world and I will unselfishly

share this gift with others.

I will use this gift to enhance the lives of others.

Beginning today, I will take life one day at a time, one step at a time.

Discouragement will not be allowed to taint my positive self-image, my

desire to succeed or my capacity to love.

Beginning today, I will open my mind and my heart.

I will welcome new experiences. I will meet new people.

I will not expect perfection from myself nor anyone else: perfection does

not exist in an imperfect world.

But I will applaud the attempt to overcome human foibles.

Beginning today, I am responsible for my own happiness and I will do things

that make me happy . . .

admire the beautiful wonders of nature, listen to my favorite music,

pet a kitten or a puppy, soak in a bubble bath . . .

Pleasure can be found in the most simple of gestures.

Beginning today, I will learn something new; I will try something different;

I will savor all the various flavors life has to offer.

I will change what I can and the rest I will let go.

I will strive to become the best me I can possibly be.

Beginning today. And every day.
~ Source Unknown ~

Beer River in Germany..!!

2007-05-01T20:48:00.000+05:30

River of Beer discovered in Germanya perviously undiscovered natural river of beer has been found deep in Germany's Black Forest.

The existence of the Krautlager River, as it has been named, came as a pleasant surprise to most Germans as it is not even charted in maps of their legendary forest. The river of beer is believed to be the result of a fluke of nature. Fresh water from an underground spring flows down a riverbed surrounded by wild hops and barley plants. As the plants are periodically washed into the river, fermentation eventually occurs. The result is a delicious golden lager, which bubbles through the woodlands.

Beer lovers from around the world have been making pilgrimages to the Krautlager River since its discovery earlier this year. Many of these beer pilgrims have bathed in the beer believing it has magical powers that can increase their consumption and tolerance levels. Others just want to drink from the river rather than pay to drink in a traditional German beer garden.

Found Nemo...!!

2007-05-01T00:02:00.000+05:30

Few years back, when i visited the National Aquarium, Baltimore, MD. I was surprised to see the bunch of kids waiting in the Coral Reef shelf and waiting anxiously for something. Suddenly they shouted "Nemo Nemo Nemo", on seeing the fish with White and Red stripes. Since i didn't see the movie "The Finding Nemo", i don't know about this.

Nemo is Clown Fish which are found in Coral reef of Australia which is very shy creature. I was excited to see the Clown Fish is the aquarium in Delhi airport, It was gr8 to see marine reef (with sea anemone, star fish and reef) maintained in Delhi. Same thing is maintained in Bangalore also by the same concern. so just clicked the Nemo.

Reunion with my Yamaha Bike...!!

2007-04-29T22:00:00.000+05:30

Three weeks back, I received call from local Yamaha dealer that asking about my old bike's model and my address. I came to know from them that my bike which i lost one and half years back was recovered by police and was in a station which is 250 km from my place.

Initially, i could not believe the same coz i lost my bike in end of year 2005. when me and my wife were returning from market, i just parked (opp to parking slot) to have a fresh juice. Within the span of 10 minutes, i lost my bike (Though it has different keys for Ignition and Neck Lock). Since my insurance was expired, i was not able to claim also. Eventually all my hopes of getting my bike drained, as there was no positive response from the police. Still remember the times, I used to go to police station with bike keys. So all my hope got diminished and forgotten about the bike.

Now, I didn't take it seriously until i got a call from the concern police station for couple of times and asking me to take my bike.I was in dilemma whether to go and take the bike or not. When i asked to near and dear friends, few asked to get it and few asked me leave it as it would not be worth to spend that much money. Anyway i decided to give an try and went along with my friend Sanjay to that place. I was shocked to see the condition of the many motorcycle standing there (No seats, indicator broken , headlight broken, full of rust and Dash panel broken). I told my friend that if the condition will be same for my bike, then i will tell bye from them. I was surprised to see my bike as i could not identify it coz everything is changed (Fake Number, Alloy wheels, Engine cover like race bike), then identified with seat covers which i changed 1 week before i lost it and engine number.It was in better condition and in the separate place.

I got to know that it was caught in last week of 2005(within 1 month of theft ) coz there were not valid papers. After confirming the Registration Number is fake, police requested Yamaha motors India Ltd, to provide the dealer address where my bike is delivered based on the Engine and Chassis number. From there they contacted the Yamaha local dealer , to get the address of mine. Since my address is the old one, they contacted Yamaha dealer for my contact number and contacted me. There was immense effort made by few people in that police stations.

After finishing all the formality, i got my bike back.

"Hats off to those Super Cops"

Though i had registered FIR on theft of my bike in local police station and police registered the record after catching bike in the other police station, there were no correlation between these two local records. If police has some centralized database which is accessible by every police station, then i would have got my bike 1 year back. While govt department like Indian Railways, BSNL , Passport are having centralized database, why cant police too have it too? I think our police should also maintain a centralized database connecting each and every station in our country, So that there could be solutions available for some N cases.

Break from Blogging...!!

2007-04-29T21:48:00.000+05:30

I had been thinking to blogging many things happening around here. But after my little princess came here, she made me very busy and couldn't take time to blog( Even sometimes laziness).
Anyway i thought of being in touch with blogging.

- NAREN

Nainital - Bhimtal Lake

2007-04-22T15:43:00.000+05:30

Tit Bits Once more..!!

2007-04-22T15:21:00.000+05:30

- Dress Code in International School

"Bottom of TOP should touch top of BOTTOM"

In an international school, above phrase describes dress code. How funny is it ... !!?

- T-Shirt Caption

"There's nothing called Gravity,Only thing is Earth sucks...!!"

Looks like snowing

2007-04-06T20:17:00.000+05:30

Two weeks back, It was raining very heavily with along with Hail stones. Within few minutes, whole area is covered with Hail stones and seen white everywhere (as we received Snow fall).

i just clicked this pic from my office conf room.

Monkey Nest...!!

2007-04-06T17:54:00.000+05:30

Have u ever seen Monkey's Nest ? Last week, I was waiting in Nizamuddin Railway Station to receive my wife, I got to see the interesting sight, Monkey's family sleeping together. I had seen several documentaries in Discovery and NatGeo channels, but none had shown about how monkey sleeps ?

I saw family of monkeys (2 adults and 2 kids) sleeping on Steel beams which supports the roof. It was so peculiar that two adults are hugging each other with its kids in between and whole family is sleeping.

Is it called "Monkey's Nest" ????????

Ooo Haaa India

2007-03-18T21:56:00.000+05:30

Ooo haa India, aaa ya India.....!!
After world cup started, most of the match was played was not interesting as it was played with minnows (like countries playing for the first time). Even there were many controversial statements that whether these minnows should be allowed to played in worldcup or not.

Few commented that this should be avoided as this reduces the interest in worldcup matches. Few supported that we should give them chance so that they could gain the confident(like Kenya which came until semifinal in last world cup). Until yesterday, results of the all matches favoured Senior Team. Almost all cases, senior teams slaughtered the minnows team with above 300 plus.

Like every Indian, I was also excited to see the first match of India against Bangladesh. I was very confident that we will have a convincing victory. Once Sehwag fell in single digit as usual, I thought that he needs some rest now and needs to work on basics.The first fifteen overs really shook the Indian top order which was really considered as Great line-up.I too waited for the bowling change as considered that may be after fifteen overs will change. But then i concluded that our batting is really struggling against the Bangladesh bowling attack. Bangladesh Team's fielding was excellent and boundaries were dried up for India.After Yuvraj had gone, wickets fell very rapidly. India faced worse defeat in world cup history. I really dunno what was in mind of our cricket team before playing the match. Is it because of Over-confidence ? Over hype to Indian team by media ? Very high expectation cause the pressure to all team members ?. Lost is lost always, Is there anyway that India could sustain its position in Super 8's ? Does Indian team will take responsible to come into Super 8's ? Does India team repeat the same which happened in previous world cup (9 win after first match defeat )?

Yesterday, PAK bid farewell from world cup after its humiliating defeat.India needs to have this in the mind. Only way is to excel in every part of the game. Hope India team comes out of this trauma of defeat. Let's see on Friday ....!!

Internet mail friend

2007-03-12T16:41:00.000+05:30

Although you are a friend of mine
and mails we exchange,
I would' t know you on the street,
and doesn't that seem strange?

You hold a place within my life,
unusual and unique;
we share ideals and special dreams,
and still we do not speak.

I picture what i think you are,
perhaps you picture me.
An intriguing game for both of us
for someone we can't see.

So for this friendship we possess
we owe this mail a debt
Perhaps the charm lies in the fact
that we have never met.

Thanks to Pooja for this Fwd mail. :-)

DVD logo in Buses

2007-03-09T22:35:00.000+05:30

This time when i went to TN, I noticed that there are "DVD logo" and captions like "Digital Theatre", "Digital surround", "Dolby stereo".

:-)

Having experience in working in DVD, I could know the pain behind getting the DVD Forum certified DVD logo (passing set of test disk), getting DTS & Dolby certification.

I dunno the reason or inspiration behind printing such logos and captions. It might be reason that the buses are equipped with DVD players.

This could be seen in private and also government buses. anyway its fun to see these kinda stuffs.

DVD certified buses. :-)

Best click

2007-03-09T21:13:00.000+05:30

One of the best pic, Royal Bengal Tiger in Ranthambhore National Park.

Any Guess...!!

2007-03-09T20:03:00.000+05:30

Could any one guess what is there in this pic ?

think

Recently, I went a temple in Thirumangalam (near madurai), I heard this is "Kalumaram" (i dunno what is its English translation). In olden days, when they have yearly once pooja in the temple, they used to give sacrifice the goat or chicken by piercing it from top edge (which is very sharp). This is considered to be regular ritual in olden days. but now a days, its not used and just standing as Antique.

Dusk from Sky

2007-03-09T19:56:00.000+05:30

Wedding Invitation - different and nice one

2007-03-09T19:12:00.000+05:30

A Spring Wedding Verse

From the city of chennai, a guy of fiesty & fair,
Has found a girl of his choice after a tour,
Enjoying the chilled breeze of cauvery
In the temple town, Trichy..!!

Yeah, By distance we can be far apart !
But we decided that we cannot depart!
And born unknown to each other
We desired to bond together!

Hence, we both from the farer miles
Got engaged finally with million smiles

In the drizzles of december dews

Ofcourse.. after much lingered longing hours!

And now we are about to hold each other's hand

By exchanging the merry dew filled garlands!

Tons of thanks to our Dad's and Mom's

For making both us share the wedding charms!

Best wishes to my friend kalai for happy married life. Gr8 thinking..!!

MLTR

2007-02-23T15:15:00.000+05:30

I really like the Michael Learns to Rock Band. I love the songs of them and their lyrics. few of my favourites are below.

Paint My Love

From my youngest year
still this moment here
I've never seensuch a lovely queen
From the skies aboveto the deepest love
I've never feltcrazy like this before

Paint my love
you should paint my love
it's the picture of a thousand sunsetset's
the freedom of a thousand doves
Baby you should paint my love

Nothing to Lose

There are times
when you make me laugh
there are moments when you drive me mad
there are seconds when I see the light
though many times you made me cry

There are times when I believe in you
these moments when I feel close to you
there are times I think that I am yours
though many times I feel unsure
There's something you don't understand
I want to be your man

I'm Gonna Be Around

Well since the first time I took your hand
my love for you has just been growing
You always seem to understand You know how I am

I'm gonna love you til the end
I'm gonna be your very true friend
I wanna share your ups and downs
I'm gonna be around

Tell It To Your Heart

She came to me like an angel
when everything was torn apart
Erasing all the madnesss
he came and blessed a broken heart

More Than A Friend

You got me counting the seconds
It happens every time
I'm waiting for the moment
we can sit down and talk for a while
And every time that you're near me
my heart is running away
How can I tell you when words don't come easy
and there is so much I'm trying to say

I wanna know that love will surround us
and you'll share it with me every day
Tell me you'll care for me now and forever
I'll give anything to hear you say
that I'm more than a friend

Complicated Heart

Don't know what to say now
don't know where to start
I don't know how to handle
a complicated heart

You tell me you are leaving
but I just have to say
before you throw it all away
Even if you want to go alone
I will be waiting when you're coming home
if you need someone to ease the pain
you can lean on me, my love will still remain

Breaking My Heart

I'm on the floorcounting one minute more
Noone to break the silence
Staring into the nightall alone but that's alright
It's the feeling deep inside I don't like

There is no excuse my friend
for breaking my heartbreaking my heart again
This is where our journey ends
Your breaking my heart again

Tit Bits

2007-02-23T13:45:00.000+05:30

- Recently watched a stage performance by Indo-Japanese comedian in US. He describes his Indian Uncle as Racist. you know why ? Coz His uncle wants his daughter to get marry a guy from same part of india other wise he will kill her daughter and sucide himself.

- Read in a weekly magazine that few poor people of village in Madhya Pradesh make their living by carrying the Human waste. Daily they need to collect the Human waste for the whole village and dispose it somewhere , to earn 4 chappathi's daily. This is really height of poverty.

PKMC - Movie Review

2007-02-23T13:02:00.000+05:30

After long time, feel like blogging today. Busy with project for couple of weeks.

Recently saw the tamil movie "Pachai Killi Muthu Charam" by Gautham menon. I was expecting cop story like Vettaiyadu Vilayadu , Kaaka Kaaka in Gautham's style. But its different, its remake of English movie "Derailed". The story is quite different from normal conventional films, its about the twist happen in middle class nucleus family.

Sarath Kumar had performed really well, its gud to see him in to simple and casual roles rather than landlord in a village. Gud performance by him. Jyothika with her bubbly look as usual performance previous Gautham film. Andrea whoz starring as wife of Sarath had her debut in this film. Shez looking cool and proved her acting ability. Its different to see Milind Soman as villain , rather than Model. Splendid performance.

Highlight of the movie is the Music, Yuvan has given a great music. Especially background music in violin when Sarath & Jyothika is marvellous. Songs are really gud.

No comedy in this movie. But screen play is gud that we wont feel bored. once again gud film by Gautham Menon.

Must see film...!!

Is it Love ................??????

2007-02-14T10:36:00.000+05:30

Do you want her because you know that you need someone??
-It isn't love, it's LONELINESS.

Are you with her because it's what everyone wants??
-It isn't love, it's LOYALTY.

Do you stay for her confessions of love, because you don't want to hurt her?
-It isn't love, it's PITY.

Do you belong to her because the sight of her makes your heart skip a beat??
-It isn't love, it's INFATUATION.

Do you pardon her faults because you care about her?
-It isn't love, it's FRIENDSHIP.

Do! you tell her every day she is the only one you think of?
-It isn't love, it's a LIE.

Are you willing to give up all of your favorite things for her sake?
-It isn't love, it's CHARITY.

Does your heart ache and breaks when she's sad?
-Then it's LOVE.

Do you cry for her pain, even when she's strong?
-Then it's LOVE.

Do her eyes see your true heart, and touch your soul so deeply it hurts?
-Then it's LOVE.

Do you accept her faults because it's a part of who she is?
-Then it's LOVE.

Are you attracted to others, but stay with her forever without regret??
-Then it's LOVE.

Would you give her your heart, your life, your death??
-Then it's LOVE.

Happy Valentines Day to everyone .... !!

Demo of Multi Sensitive Touch Panel

2007-02-12T22:22:00.000+05:30

I really wondered about the touch panel control of I-Pod. Currently, Most of the Gadgets uses the touch panel which are sensitive to only single touch at a time. This video gives demo of multisensitive Touch panel, through which we can play piano in touch panel, Keyboard or clay modelling in it. Just have a look..!! its really amazing.

Got it from Vazz's Blog.

Golden Fields

2007-02-04T22:16:00.000+05:30

In winter, I really like to travel coz we don't feel tiredness(excluding frustrations caused by delays in Airport and Trains). Due to some commitments ;-) , I didn't travel much during the last year. many destinations are added in my list, hope to start it soon.

By the way, while travelling the country side, we could see the mustard fields which blossomed with its yellow flower every where (Delhi - Agra, Delhi - Jaipur, Delhi - Meerut highways). It looks like golden coating over the greenish fields which looks very fabulous. We can see in many bollywood songs(DDLJ).

This pic was clicked by me while going to sariska.

Funny Video

2007-02-04T22:06:00.000+05:30

Hilarious Video..!
Just Check it out...!!

Emu

2007-01-31T22:46:00.000+05:30

Last time, when i met my friend, he told me that he was going to start the poultry farm in large scale(apart from his main business). I was expecting something he was talking about white Leghorns Hen, Black Leghorns Hen, Red Rhode Island Hen, Goose or Turkey. I was really excited when he told that he was about to do Emu farming.

Emu is flightless bird (Cousin to Osterich in africa, cassowary in australia, kiwi in Newzeland & Rhea in S.America ) in Australia. It will be around 5-6 feet in height and around 45-60 kg in weight. This bird is much suited to Indian tropical climate. I was really excited to see these species. After seeing it for first time from very closer, i didn't have courage to touch it(Its having strong beak).

Hope i would get chance to see more many Emu chicks soon.

Once again air travel mess

2007-01-31T19:23:00.000+05:30

Last week, i took 2 days leave along the long weekend and went for a long round trip (Delhi -> Bangalore -> Virudhunagar -> Tirunelveli -> Chennai -> Delhi). Attended marriage reception of Bala and attended Jagan's marriage.So could not blog for a while.

Since i had planned my trip in last moment, i booked tickets through a famous low cost airlines. I had booked my flight to BLR from DEL at 7:40 pm. The day before departure, i got a SMS alert that my flight is re-scheduled to 9:30 pm (I wondered how they could predict the delay of departure of flight before 36 hrs). On the day of travel morning, i got another SMS alert that my flight is schedule to 10:20 pm.I was really puzzled whether to leave office after lunch (to catch the flight at 7:40 pm) or in the evening. Since i am not sure about SMS alerts, i managed to reach the airport at 7:30 pm. While i am going to airport in cab, i got another alert that my flight is re-scheduled to 11:05 pm. I am now damn sure that i am going to wait in airport for a long time. when i reached the counter, they told that only i could check-in my baggage after time of departure is confirmed. In the mean time, they announced that "They regret for delay in departure, this is due to delay in arrival of incoming flight". While all the airlines are keeping their timings, we are the one waiting for the flight whose departure is not confirmed yet. Even we are not sure that whether we will fly or our flight will be cancelled. At last we are allowed to check-in our baggage. I had word with the attendant , he told that they are expecting aircraft from BLR at 11:25 pm , once it landed, then they could take off at 11:55 pm. I was astonished to hear that their aircraft is covering almost 10 destination daily.(really wondered..!! how come second hand aircraft can really fly continuously more than 20 hours daily)

There was another interesting incident happened. In our flight, there was family of 15 people who had finished marriage of their son in DEL and taking the new Dulhan (newly married girl) to BLR. When they announced the boarding for our flight at 11:45 at gate no 1, everyone formed the queue over there. In the mean time, one person from the marriage group tried to intrude the queue in the front, telling that they need adjacent seats as they were 15 people (as no seat number in boarding passes). The airlines attendant requested him to come in queue, but chaos started when the few people from the marriage group started arguing. So flight attendant gave another announcement to form queue in the gate no 2, so all started boarding through that. But no one the marriage group boarded, they challenged how they could take off flight without them.After arguing for 20 minutes, they boarded the flight(Really pissed off with attitude of the people, we all were waiting for last 4 hours , whats going to happen if we boarded after 10 minutes.).Atlast our flight departed to BLR at 12:35 am. I reached the BLR at 3:00 am and knocked home at 3:45 am (felt like i am returning from abroad .... :-) ). Everyone asked me whether i came by flight or by bus.

Same thing repeated during my return journey from Chennai to Delhi in same airlines. My flight was scheduled at 4:10 pm, i was happy that i didn't receive any SMS alert (Bomb..!!). After reaching airport, it was announced our flight will depart at 5:45 pm. I checked in my baggage and finished my security check. Then gotta next SMS Alert that our flight is scheduled to 7:40pm. I felt in my inner mind that things are going to repeat like my onward journey. Around 7:15 pm,our flight name was displayed along with gate number for boarding in the display board for departing flights. As soon as it was displayed, everyone was stand in the queue. We waited until 7:45 pm , no official from the concern airlines came near. They announced after few minutes that our flight is re-scheduled to 9:40 pm with same announcement that "They regret for delay in departure, this is due to delay in arrival of incoming flight". Most of passenger were annoyed and was about to trash the airline officials. Few foreigners watching the chaos told that airlines were crazy. One of co-passenger told that he asked his family to wait for him in airport, to attend the marriage in town near by delhi. One foreigner told he had to catch the train at 10:30 pm from New delhi Railway station. At last i managed to reach delhi at 2:35 am.

I was really fed up with this airlines, so decided not to opt for it even though they give free tickets. Their claim that they had simpli-fly but actually they made everyone to fedup-fly.

I think i had booked my tickets at wrong time. :-) It was gr8 experience.

Recent Controversy - Real Hype

2007-01-20T11:49:00.000+05:30

Recent participation of bollywood actress in the English reality show has created lots of controversies. We all should accept her situation was awkward in the show.

- She had been paid around few crores for her participation in this show. How can she accept this offer without the knowledge of the shows ? Haven't she see any previous episodes ?

- Is this really so important that both prime ministers and other ministers need to justify it ? There were lots of serious issues yet to be sorted out in our country like recent disruption in NE by ULFA, Bengal disputes over agriculture land, Nithari killings.

Even with in our country, there are lots of discrimination (in different forms) happening daily in our society. In the mean time, how can we criticise people of other country ??? Atleast we should try to eradicate discrimination based on caste, religion in our country, we all should feel One Indian (like BSNL and Airtel latest STD plan).

Guru - Abhishek in full swing

2007-01-20T11:05:00.000+05:30

After long interval, I thought of going for movie with my friend. I book the tickets in night show in the waves. As usual combination of ManiRatnam & A R Rahman, expectation was very high.

This movie depicts about an young lad from gujarat who is aggressive of becoming pioneer in business based on his dream and his strong willpower. Abhishek has shown his maturity in acting. Thumbs Up for him. Gr8 performance. Aish is utter waste. Another promising performance is by Mithun chakraborty by his dialogue "Bahut aacha", actor has proved himself. Back ground music is rocking especially in the first half. ManiRatanam excels in the way of screenplay.

Director conveys message that its better to work of our self rather than working for someone which will improve our country.

X ray of Flowers

2007-01-20T10:51:00.000+05:30

We all know about the X-Rays which are used mostly in field of Medicines and Airport screenings.

It reveals more than a actual picture. X-Rays of Flowers are known as Floral Radiography. It reveals the inner structure of the flowers(way the petals, sepals are arranged).

An interesting pic i feel. courtesy some forward mail.

NOIDA's Shame - Nithari Killings

2007-01-13T22:26:00.000+05:30

NOIDA, popularly known as Satellite town, belongs to NCR (National Capital Region, surrounding New Delhi), Industrial Area, one of few planned city in India (next to Chandigarh) and considered to be good residential area.

Nithari Killings had really shocked everyone across the globe. Series of crimes really rocked the security concerns in Noida.Few months back when a famous kid was kidnapped, there was an article on Noida additional pages of famous National daily revealing that more than 15 kids were disappeared in Nithari(Nithari is small village before Noida was planned, after that its part of Sector 31 of Noida, Mostly people in Nithari were Rickshaw pullers and servants) and seeking the answer from police.But no response from them at that time.

One of my friend's servant maid was from Nithari whose sister is mother of Bina(13), who was the one of the victim. Bina disappeared in the mind 2005. Though her parents went to complain many times, they didn't get proper response. Once culprits in D5,Sec 31 were nabbed by the police, Bina's dress and chapel helped their parents identify her remains(very pathetic). Another victim is 3 yr old boy, who was asked by his lame father to get something from the shop (opp to their house), disappeared.The list goes on. Till now, no one exactly knows how many kids were victims , what happened to them and who were involved in this.

Even few statements were really surprising after the Narco test. Hope CBI will identifies everyone involved in this crime.May we cud have save more life, if police had alerted few months back.

May we all pray for the souls to rest in peace and words to victim's parents.Lets all hope that incident like this wont occur in future.This had been compared with Anthony Hopkins "The Silence of the lambs" movie.

Water Bed

2007-01-13T22:19:00.000+05:30

Must watch video. Enjoy :-)

Harvest Festivals: Pongal, Makara Sankranti, Lohri

2007-01-13T15:49:00.000+05:30

Harvest festival is one celebrated all across India in almost the same time in different names. Its the Indian version of ThanksGiving to God. Its celebrated as Pongal (TN), Sankranti(AP, Karnataka), Makara Sankranti(Maharashtra, Gujarat) and Lohri (Punjab, Haryana).

Even though every festival is celebrated in different way as the culture differs, but ultimate aim is one. "Unity in Diversity"

Happy Pongal
Happy Sankranti
Happy Lohri

By the way, Does people in US copied ThanksGiving day from India or its viceversa ?

Air travel from Delhi - Full of Surprises

2007-01-11T21:59:00.000+05:30

Last week, I had travel to Bangalore by air. Since i don't believe in the CAT III trained domestic airlines and also weather (coz Fog could cover the runway any time in morning and in evening), I booked tickets in the early evening flight. As usual i reached the airport one and half an hour before the departure. I got astonished to see the queue for X-Ray screening, its so long and zigzag(AirDeccan, GoAir, Jagson, SpiceJet and IndiGo).I feel like that i could not check-in before one hour of departure time. At last managed to reached the Check in counter which is about to close. Another surprise was the two long queue until Airport entrance from the waiting lounge. At last managed to reach the waiting lounge 15 minutes before the departure.There was another surprise that my flights got delayed another 30 minutes.

Even though our government had increased the airport tax (Including Congestion Tax), there is no sufficient security check counters, X-Ray Screening terminals and waiting lounges. we could see the temporary waiting lounges made in the parking area opposite to the Departure terminal, which will be used by passengers during delay if flights in winters.

- How come these delays happens only with domestic flights in India every India? we don't often hear delay of flights in busiest airports like Frankfurt, Paris , Amsterdam (with some exception like it happened few days back in Heathrow & Boston)

- Don't Government should think about developing Infrastructures before granting license for new Airlines ? (Heard lots of airlines going to have debut very soon in this year)

so guys, plan yourself to reach airport earlier anticipating the crowd. Its really full of surprises.

Apple iPhone

2007-01-10T20:13:00.000+05:30

Few months back, when i got my Apple iPod Nano, My friend Kapil told that its better to get Music players with Mobile Phone like Sony Ericsson W Series , Nokia N Series. Coz it wud better to carry one gadget instead of two (mobile + Mp3 Player).

Now Apple launched with iPhone powered by OS X which is iPod + Mobile + Browser with Wifi. This will give a great competition to leading SmartPhone manufacturers like Nokia, Palm , Blackberry.

Its really Gr8. But to get it , I need to subscribe to cingular for 499$. Hope to get the same in India soon. :)

specification more pics

Two Brothers

2007-01-09T19:56:00.000+05:30

Last week, When i was browsing through channels in my TV, I got a chance to see this movie "Two Brothers" in HBO. This film is directed by famous director Jean-Jacques Annaud (Seven Years in Tibet (starring Brad Pitt) - Story of Dalai Lama Childhood).He depicts the cruelty done to Predators.

This is about Twin tiger cubs--one shy and gentle(Sangha), the other bold and fierce(Kumal), born amongst the ruins of an ancient temple in the jungles of Indo-China some time early last century.However, on a fateful day, the brothers are separated by fate. The bold brother is sold off to a circus, where homesickness and living in a cage rob him of his spirit. Meanwhile, the shy cub becomes the beloved companion of the governor's lonely young son, until an accident forces the family to give him away to a man who resolves to break his gentle nature and turn him into a fighter for sport. When they are fully grown the brothers find themselves reunited--but as forced enemies, pitted against each other. Atlast they reunite with their MOM.

Though i agree , it has some director's imagination. It reveals the way the Kings in last century use to kill these fascinating animals for just fun. I guess, more than thousands were hunted in the Royal hunting grounds like Ranthambore and Sariska by Maharaja's of Modern India.

I really appreciate theme of the movie - Pls do watch it, Dont miss it.

But still we are having chance to save our Big cats. So guys, Just give a thought about this.

You know a fact , India is only country to have four species of Big Cats(Royal Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Lion, Leopard and Snow Leopard)

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2007

2006-12-30T11:18:00.000+05:30

Wishing You All, Very Happy and prosperous New Year 2007.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2007

MTV Roadies Show

2006-12-30T10:57:00.000+05:30

Few weeks back, I got a chance to watch a show "MTV Roadies 4" in MTV India. After watching for the first time, I really liked various activities in it and its really fun to see it. after each competition, one people will be voted out from the group. The person who will sustain untill last will be MTV Roadies of year 2006.

just try to watch it.

My Guess is Anthony, Lets see whoz in finals :)

"Survival is the Fittest"

Remembering Sunrise..!!

2006-12-27T23:40:00.000+05:30

Waking up in morning, that too in winter isssss really difficult. I tried to many times to wake up before sunrise. But always sun is faster than me ;-). So, I thought of remebering sunrise.

Dream House

2006-12-27T22:47:00.000+05:30

Wish to live in house like this :-). This is pic of house in a village near Manali (Himachal), located inside woods, a stream flowing nearby. Typical house of pahadis (people living in Mountains).Walls built in combination of stone and wood, to keep warm in winter. Its roofing is done in sheets of Slate (a kind of metamorphic rock found commonly in New Fold mountains like Himalayas) rocks.

Different Faces for Life

2006-12-27T22:31:00.000+05:30

Different faces, we meet in our day to day life with different masks.

"For men may come and men may go,
But I go on for ever. "

- Alfred Lord TennySon (The Brook)

Merry X-Mas to everyone

2006-12-25T22:40:00.000+05:30

Wishing everyone Merry Christmas. I feel Christmas this year, had become much global one in India. Everyone in office saying Merry Christmas to everyone, getting mails from customer telling Happy Christmas. Its really good to see the people selling magazines and balloon in traffic signals wearing Santa's cap and telling happy Christmas.

I would like to give MunnaBhai famous Jhaadoo ki Jhappi (Free Hugs) to everyone on Christmas. Just enjoy the video below:

When i think of Christmas, first thing come in my mind is the small get together in Vasanth's house during school days, where we all our friends will eat cake and play with crackers.

Entering Bloggers World

2006-12-25T22:28:00.000+05:30

After reading various blog, thought of giving a change by start blogging. Though its difficult to keep blogging regularly, but felt to give an try.

- Naren