What a CRAZE !!!

What a CRAZE !!!

Today it feels as if I have changed my workplace…. The everyday silence and professional work environment turned into a noisy, full of excitement, confusion and debatic atmosphere. Wondering what was behind that !!! the craze of Indians allover … CRICKET !!! It’s a quarter final and feels as like finals …. Will India win today?? Will Sachin n Sehwag be able to show their best forms?? Will Australia loose the match after years??... and the best of all.. who ever wins today will win the world cup !!! WAAOOFFFFF 

Many crazy fellows are sacrificing by not watching the match, coz whenever they watch, India looses it!!!! ….. All bosses turning into cricket fans for the day… board room is not being used to serious meetings but to watch the match on big screen and not to forget snacks and cola.. It’s even more exciting to witness this excitement than watching the match itself !!!

Not to mention, but facebook is another great medium to feed in the excitement into others…. a friend’s status said….. can’t wait 30 mins more to go !!!! :DDD

Guess every Indian house will be witnessing this today… Lets grab the popcorns, kathis, pizzas and colas and be a kid again and have super fun!!!!

Look beyond !!!

Look Beyond the usual !!!

I know it’s been a  few days since the country of great inventions- Japan has been experiencing its greatest hardship as it tackles the aftermath of earthquake, tsunami and nuclear crisis… but lately a question came in my mind..

What could you be doing, when you see an earthquake or tsunami happening before your eyes?...............

Could you be arguing with your partner on some petty issue? Could you be wondering about what to wear to the party in the evening? Could you be gossiping about somebody in the office, or the upcoming promotions? Could you be cursing your maid for bunking that day? Could you be watching cricket or a football match?? ME… I guess I would be watching TV and cooking..Really!! And I was doing just that when it hit Japan on March 11^th !

Why not check ourselves!!!... do we see ourselves spending too much time pondering over petty issues or arguing over some irrelevant past matters or fighting over things or people that are not that important to us?? End of the day, the question arises ..Is this all essential at all? Is all this tougue biting necessary? Can’t we live our present life happily, since we are unaware about our future.

Most of we girls end up only watching movies and dramas etc .. Most of the stories are made around the topics of love, relationships, family, office, the J factor, misunderstanding etc to make some addictive series which a lot of women get hooked to. I wont deny, am in the same race… these programmes in  a way are made for self awareness too and I won’t be surprised if you say that you see your real life portrayed in your favourite show.. :D

I wonder if the adding years to our age going to make us wiser and bring us more in senses. Will  we become mellower, the older we get? We will feel that we should not be too particular about faltu ka issues? Will we be more forgiving and feel that past is something not to hold on to? Will we be able to guage ourselves and save ourselves from the wrongs so we avoid regretting later in life? Will we … ??? Will we ….???

With all these thoughts, I believe instead of turning into tough nuts in our old age, we should spend more time in meaningful things like helping the needy and poor, dedicating time towards God, do things to make your family live happily, spread positive energy to everyone around you, be a motivator to people, be a guiding force for someone you see is going wrong, be someone who everyone would remember making a difference in their life because they have crossed path with you!

Not necessarily you have to agree with me, but do you???

My College & the Horror later!

My College & the Horror later!

Last weekend took me by surprise, I thought its holi, I’ll be at home.. was expecting a guest.. will cook.. eat ....watch TV etc.. in short it all sounded boring… But the guest (my fren M’s sis ) turned out to be from my college as well – Isabella Thoburn College, lucknow. So we became the gang for the day Me, M & her sis S… it was fun and quite nostalgic, talking about the teachers, classes, the bunking fun, the icecreams and chole bhatura of the canteen.. the shahrukh of our college Ashu….  We shared numerous stories and imitated our teachers while making chicken and  aloo parathas.

Then later in the day as the night eazed in and the full moon was staring in the balcony, the college stories were surpassed and horror n scary stories came in through the skies in our minds…. Five of our brains trying to gather something scary that we heard or experienced or even made up (may be .. :D ) to narrate to each other. What a magical moment it was… smiles mixed with excitement while we trying to guage each other’s expressions to know who is the most scared one amongst us… :D

Finally when our feet started aching we moved in from the balcony and the day ended with watching roadies repeat to change the scary topics from our minds and get a sound sleep… A memorable weekend indeed !!!

Biryanilicious !!!

Biryanilicious !!!

Chicken Biryani is my fav since childhood, a dish my dad cooks awesomest… When it comes to food, I can say biryani was my first crush and i always wanted to cook it for my honey the way mom used to.... last week for the first time I tried my hands on it… and guess what, it turned out great!!!! Not as good as my dad’s / mom's but will reach that level in a few more trials.

Me, my M, my S &M ….. we all had great fun having the lavish dinner. More than the dinner I loved the praise that I got for it.. lol :D its given me enough motivation to try more new things. 
My second crush in food now a days is MOMOs..... :D so get ready guys ........ YUMMMM !!!

Cheers to you ladies !

Cheers to you ladies !

Today is the day of every women, and every men to understand their women! And here I am with a new post after a long break, to talk to every women reading this.

Today is the day to think ahead from the usual roles of being a wife, mother, daughter in law, sister or a homemaker and think about yourself. Don’t take me wrong here, its caring for yourself and not being self-centred. Each responsibility of course can’t be neglected any time in life… but this one day don’t neglect yourself and trust me, your husband or children or parents will be with you. U never know they are arranging a surprise for this women in their lives.

Get up and discover yourself like I did, though being newly married every day is a discovery for me and this women’s day is even more special to me coz I am exploring myself in new roles of a women in life. But irrespective of what roles we play, care for ourselves to care for your loved ones better. There’s something empowering, magical and fun about spending time with ourself. You will always return with a renewed sense of energy and gratitude!

And hey you girls… this day also comes with endless sales all over. So pick up ur shopping bags and flat shoes and splurge on something you have been eyeing for. Gift yourself a gift and celebrate being women! If not alone, accompany ur girl friends, mom or daughters and enjoy the day the way u like.. be it, shopping, spa, a brunch and lunch or even simply cuddling up in bed with a book in hand… just let your hair down, laugh louder and polish the women in you.. and nobody will sue you for that :D

Happy Women’s Day and a toast to our freedom!

Incredible is the Word !!!!

Incredible… There is simply no other word that convincingly captures magical India. The country can sideswipe you with its enigma, vibrance, warmth and hospitality. From its breathtaking landscape to the intricate architecture, snow clad mountains to sun kissed beaches, marvelous temples to fascinating festivals and rustic villages to ultra-modern metro cities, it’s hardly surprising that it was ranked amongst the Numero Uno destinations by CondeNast Traveller.

The country is set apart from the rest of Asia by the Himalayas, the highest, youngest and still evolving mountain chain on the planet and is home to more than one billion people. The subcontinent bustles with a harmonious blend of cultural diversity, which appears to be an indulging cocktail for a traveller. India has something to offer every traveller!                                  

An Indian journey is one of aesthetic ecstasy, through the bygone eras of history that unfolds magnificently in its sculptures, stupas and temples which are not just monuments but also cultural centres showcasing the spiritual and secular significance of the country.

Being the world's largest democracy and one of the fastest developing economies of the world, India has some of the most intricate and interesting traditions and customs on earth. The many facets of this country unite its diversity which are sure to surprise a visitor. Those seeking spiritual bliss, India is a true haven with a liberal sprinkling of pilgrimages sites - great seers, masters and incarnations were born here. For the history and culture buffs ancient India presents its grandeur that is manifested in its forts, museums, monuments, temples and quaint townships. The Adventure lovers can get their adrenaline pumping while trekking in the Himalayas, rafting on the gushing rivers, camping in the wild, desert safaris or simply enjoying the waters of the balmy beaches and nature walks.

India is the land of infinite beauty and home to rich diversity of wildlife, flora and fauna. The sight and sounds of a majestic elephant, a peacock’s dance, the stride of a camel, the roar of a tiger are unparalleled experiences in themselves. National parks and bird sanctuaries are a paradise for nature lovers and are a photographer’s delight!

The charm of the royal grandeur of India can grip any visitor with admiration. With many forts and palaces now converted into luxurious hotels, visitors can relive the glorious past first hand and feel royal as if they were the kings and queens of the bygone eras.   As you become royalty on your vacation either you ride an elephant into a grand courtyard, dine in the durbar halls, see live folk dancers perform, travel in vintage cars or stay in opulently furnished luxury, the delight is truly in every detail.

If that’s not all, there is food. Thought Indian cuisine begins and ends with curry? Truth is Indian cuisine is as diverse as its culture. Not only dishes, but also flavors, colors, methods of cooking to even the style of cutting and cooking changes as often as the landscape does. It offers an array of cuisine with exotic spices. North India is characterized by its thick, tasty gravies, naan, kebabs and authentic sweets while in south India Idli, sambhar, dosa are just the tip of iceberg because its variety is endless from Chettinad to Malabari. Similarly Western India is cosmopolitan in food habits from dhokla, farzan, vada pav to the world famous spicy sorpatel and vindaloo curries.

India is not only about history and culture but also well renowned for its science of Ayurveda. ‘Harmony is health’ believes this age old science. Treatments, for chronic ailments to rejuvenating the mind, body and soul, include Aromatic massages, Herbal Oil Massages, Milk baths, body scrubs and face and body wraps. Ayurveda is not just about medicinal value but a way of life that believes in the power of nature.

Travelling to India would also be incomplete without being a part of its colorful festivals and fairs. The rich cultural heritage of India attracts the world during the celebrations of important festivals like Holi, Onam, Durga Puja and Diwali. Observed with enthusiasm and gaiety, festivals are like gems ornamenting the crown of Indian Culture.

India is probably one of the only places in the world where people are not just hospitable but also open their hearts and homes and where strangers become family with just one smile. Truly incredible!

Life of Twenties Something !!

A super article i came accross, didnt want to miss it postin on my blog, for my readers and myself. Hope u'll all like it:

BEING IN TWENTIES - SOMETHING

It is when you stop going along with the crowd and start realizing that
there are many things about yourself that you didn't know and may not
like. You start feeling insecure and wonder where you will be in a year
or two, but then get scared because you barely know where you are now.

You start realizing that people are selfish and that, maybe, those
friends that you thought you were so close to aren't exactly the
greatest people you have ever met, and the people you have lost touch
with are some of the most important ones. What you don't recognize is
that they are realizing that too, and aren't really cold, catty, mean or
insincere, but that they are as confused as you.

You look at your job... and it is not even close to what you thought you
would be doing, or maybe you are looking for a job and realizing that
you are going to have to start at the bottom and that scares you.

Your opinions have gotten stronger. You see what others are doing and
find yourself judging more than usual because suddenly you realize that
you have certain boundaries in your life and are constantly adding
things to your list of what is acceptable and what isn't. One minute,
you are insecure and then the next, secure.

You laugh and cry with the greatest force of your life. You feel alone
and scared and confused. Suddenly, change is the enemy and you try and
cling on to the past with dear life, but soon realize that the past is
drifting further and further away, and there is nothing to do but stay
where you are or move forward.

You get your heart broken and wonder how someone you loved could do such
damage to you. Or you lie in bed and wonder why you can't meet anyone
decent enough that you want to get to know better. One night stands and
random hook ups start to look cheap. Getting wasted and acting like an
idiot starts to look pathetic. You go through the same emotions and
questions over and over, and talk with your friends about the same
topics because you cannot seem to make a decision. You worry about
loans, money, the future and making a life for yourself... and while
winning the race would be great, right now you'd just like to be a
contender!

What you may not realize is that every one reading this relates to it.
We are in our best of times and our worst of times, trying as hard as we
can to figure this whole thing out. Send this to your twenty-something
friends... maybe it will help someone feel like they aren't alone in
their state of confusion...

We call it the "Quarter-life Crisis."

THINK PINK

During my childhood, I used to love PINK….. teens, I developed a taste for blue, metallics, black etc.. then later I got a fever of RED, when everything I used to like was red- be it clothes, accessories, cars, electronics, especially those red shoes ;-P…. but since a few months, I have developed a craze for pink, particularly fuschia!!!

So….What do you think?  Anyone's favorite color pink?  Do you admit it?  Do you wear it?  Will you now after reading this? 

QUE: Do Gurls wear pink coz its girly or its girly  coz we wear it??

Another first chicken or first egg variety question but who really cares! Pink is such a fabulous and attractive color that can instantly increase your face value and symbolizes everything happy & charming. Pink commands a cheerful connotation in our daily lives, it has its own beauty and represents a combination of elements: red & white, fury & peace, passion & calm. We are complex individuals and pink is the color that can be modified to match our moods. Some days you really do feel at peace like the nature of a cherry blossom pink, and the other day you might feel bright and chirpy like the Fuchsia… (my favvvvvvv ;o) … I am in love wid it)

Be it a fuchsia, magenta or coral, each hue of pink is so exciting and lively and therefore, so apt to be branded as girly! Today i can relate a lot of my feelings (specially the lovey dovey ones) to this super cute n super hot color ' PINK... no no Fuchsia Pink !!! :D

Pink color is also symbolic to the desire for the more carefree days of our childhood for the overworked and stressed-out women (both a corporate girl and a house lady), so gurrrllsss… lets freeze the time in the pink age of our lives…THINK PINK AND STAY GIRL!!!

Confession : The thought of writing this post popped in my mind when I saw a guy, passing by, in a pink shirt looking more confident than what girls look when they wear pink. Little did I know that the internet is already inundated with content on pink, rather with interactive forum for matters close to a girl’s heart..about stuff that can tickle u pink !!! :) So this will not be another run-of-the-mill post.

If I knew what I know NOW!!

Sitting in office idle for sometime, a song came floating in my mind ‘If I knew what I know now’ by Kenny Rogers which made me think, if I meet my younger self in teens, now, what advice would I give her. If we all knew THEN what we know NOW, would our lives been better?

IF I KNEW THEN WHAT I KNOW NOW

Well, hello girl, tell me, how have you been?
By the way, I`ll never make the same mistake again
And you know girl, it`s been a long hard time
Nothing like back when you were mine.

And if I knew then what I know now
I`d have found a way
To make things work out somehow
I`d have held you tight
I`d have treated you right
If I knew then what I know now.

It`s a crazy world for a boy and a girl

Harder than it is for a woman and a man
Oh, it was easy then just to push you away
Guess I never knew how I'd feel today.

If we knew then ...

You know I'd do things differently
If you ever come back to me
If we could just go back in time
There`s no broken heart
Girl, we`re at the start this time.

Dear Me @ 21,

The dress you wore for that school function, just what were you thinking :-o

Don’t hate the thick eyebrows you had then. It is going to be the most beautiful eyebrows once you grow up.

Don’t be impulsive. For your every action, there will be a reaction and you will realise this later in life and then you will have to live with the consequences.

Don’t dress up for others. Dress up because you want to feel and look good to yourself.

Don’t be embarrassed at stupid incidents, like when a guy tries to talk to you or asking for notes from a super intelligent classmate.

Don’t wear socks in those block heels or sandals, no matter how cold it is. Period.

Don’t cry over ‘that’ guy. He is not your true love. I repeat NOT.

Listen to your mom and dad. Trust me. They really do know what is best for you.

Help mom in the kitchen. How did mom do it without complaining? you will realize that once you start managing alone / are married ;)

Spend time with your girlfriend no matter how buzy you are with other things.

Spend more time with God.

Say ‘Thank you’ more often to your parents.

Spend less time watching TV or listening songs or studying and more time with your brother and give them advice when they come to you. Before you know it, they are not going to be needing your advice, but would be giving you one! They grow up so soo soooo fast!

Don’t be selfish. The world does not revolve around you. NO, It does not!

Don’t do anything which you have to hide from your family… be true to yourself and them.

Don’t get aggressive on sensitive matters, they ruin understanding with your loved ones.

Take care of your skin and have lots of water.

Enjoy every moment.. be it with parents, brother or Friends.

Don’t worry about that ugly pimple, you will learn that people are not superficial. They love you no matter what.

You will develop a passion for shopping.

Don’t be paranoid about birthdays. You will still look the same, even better than how you look now! And you will hear people complimenting on that …

Don’t go looking for Mr. Right in Mr. Wrongs. Just wait. You will fall in love with the most wonderful man and will be happily married.

Be more organized.

Love your body just the way it is. Trust me, You will want this waistline back when you look back at pics taken during the college days :p

Don’t live French fries, noodles, fried chicken, pizzas, dosas and samosas only… try some dal chawal also, you gonna crave for it later.

MOST IMPORTANT: Don’t try to please everyone and anyone… Learn to say NO and move on!

If I knew all this then, I probably would have had a perfect life, but these are the things that have made me into the person that I am today.  Guess that’s what life is all about, which doesn’t only includes good decisions but bad ones too. I have learnt to learn and move!

This is a idea I got from one of the blogs and sounded really interesting to me to write what’s on my list, infact kind of a letter to my younger self !!! i guess there are lot many things to be added still ....

Will be Back!!!

Its been more than 2 months since I posted anything.  A lot of things happened in the last few months on the personal front... everything for my best :) and next few months also have a lot in stock for me and my loved ones. These days are appearing to be the most memorable phase of my life and I would love to share with you my feelings and learnings. I have been thinking for a long time to resume blogging since it gives me immense happiness but laziness kept me procrastinate it .

Will be back soon with a new post :)

The Chaat Flavour!!!!!

It suddenly occurred to me when I turned to my older emails this morning, that it’s been more than two months since I got back from my last vacation (from Kasol, Himachal). Over the past few weeks, I have been busy enjoying my days with my family, friends and meeting work deadlines. As I sit back today, with a glass of juice in hand, it suddenly dawned on me that I have had quite eventful and experimental vacations with relation to food. And why not, I would have had it no other way.

For a food enthusiast like me, the cuisine of a region is as much to look forward to on a trip as the popular tourist attraction. So much so, that on many short trip, I have been known to cross out a few stops on my sightseeing itinerary only to accommodate a much important trip to the local restaurant or a village visit for food and new experiences.

Of the many things that were on my must-eat list during my trip, the few that undoubtedly sought my utmost attention were those that can be found at almost every nook and corner of the city. Ask anyone who has ever walked the streets of Indian metros, be it Delhi, Mumbai or Bangalore, and they will attest to the fact that no evening stroll is complete without making a stop at one of the many hawker stalls on the streets. Stall after stall and Street after street you’re greeted by pleasant smiling faces and tempting colors on the plates that urge you to come and give it a try.

Topped with spicy and tangy chutneys, yogurt and tons of other fixings, each plate creates a whole new experience in the mouth. Chaats are one of those purely addictive foods that I simply refuse to live without! Living outside the comfort of your home teaches you to adapt in ways you wouldn’t have imagined. And I am no different. Although I do miss the flavors of my favourite eateries in Lucknow but I don’t step back from trying those in different cities with their unique flavors. This is one delicacy which remains similar in look and feel but tastes different in different parts of the countries… like in Kolkata, Patna, Bhopal, Rajasthan, Himachal, Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. 

One should give it a try at various places to understand the tastes of the people of that region and trust me you will not regret!!!! 

Ooops, ok my mouth is watery now, going to grab a golgappa aka puchka aka pani puri… :o)

Six Funny Life Lessons

Hey Frens...

This is not my original post, am sharing with you an interesting email which I recieved today about 6 very funny and true life lessons to be learned. Jokes apart, the insight gained is valuable to everyone and I somehow don’t think you’ll regret reading them.  

Lesson 1:

A man is getting into the shower just as his wife is finishing up her shower when the doorbell rings. The wife quickly wraps herself in a towel and runs downstairs. When she opens the door, there stands Bob, the next door neighbor. Before she says a word, Bob says, “I’ll give you $800 to drop that towel.” After thinking for a moment, the woman drops her towel and stands naked in front of Bob.

After a few seconds, Bob hands her $800 dollars and leaves. The woman wraps back up in the towel and goes back upstairs. When she gets to the bathroom, her husband asks,…

“Who was that?” “It was Bob the next door neighbor,” she replies. “Great!” the husband says, “Did he say anything about the $800 he owes me?”

Moral of the story:
If you share critical information pertaining to credit and risk with your shareholders in time, you may be in a position to prevent avoidable exposure.

Lesson 2:

A sales rep, an administration clerk, and the manager are walking to lunch when they find an antique oil lamp. They rub it and a Genie comes out. The Genie says, “I’ll give each of you just one wish” “Me first! Me first!” says the admin. clerk. “I want to be in the Bahamas, driving a speedboat, without a care in the world.” Poof! She’s gone. “Me next! Me next!” says the sales rep. “I want to be in Hawaii,relaxing on the beach with my personal masseuse, an endless supply of Pina Coladas and the love of my life.” Poof! He’s gone. “OK, you’re up,” the Genie says to the manager. The manager says, “I want those two back in the office after lunch.”

Moral of the story: Always let your boss have the first say.

Lesson 3:

A priest offered a lift to a Nun. She got in and crossed her legs, forcing her gown to reveal a leg. The priest nearly had an accident. After controlling the car, he stealthily slid his hand up her leg. The nun said,”Father, remember Psalm 129?” The priest removed his hand. But,changing gears, he let his hand slide up her leg again. The nun once again said, “Father, remember Psalm 129?” The priest apologized “Sorry sister but the flesh is weak.” Arriving at the convent, the nun went on her way. On his arrival at the church, the priest rushed to look up Psalm 129. It said, “Go forth and seek, further up, you will find glory.”

Moral of the story: If you are not well informed in your job, you might miss a great opportunity.

Lesson 4:

A crow was sitting on a tree, doing nothing all day. A rabbit asked him,”Can I also sit like you and do nothing all day long?” The crow answered: “Sure, why not.” So, the rabbit sat on the ground below the crow, and rested.

A fox jumped on the rabbit and ate it.

Moral of the story: To be sitting and doing nothing, you must be sitting very high up.

Lesson 5:

A turkey was chatting with a bull “I would love to be able to get to the top of that tree,” sighed the turkey, but I haven’t got the energy.” “Well, why don’t you nibble on my droppings?” replied the bull. “They’re packed with nutrients.” The turkey pecked at a lump of dung and found that it gave him enough strength to reach the lowest branch of the tree. The next day, after eating some more dung, he reached the second branch. Finally after a fourth night, there he was proudly perched at the top of the tree. Soon he was spotted by a farmer, who shot the turkey out of the tree.

Moral of the story: Bullshit might get you to the top, but it wont keep you there.

Lesson 6:

A little bird was flying south for the winter. It was so cold the bird froze and fell to the ground into a large field. While he was lying there, a cow came by and dropped some dung on him. As the frozen bird lay there in the pile of cow dung, he began to realize how warm he was. The dung was actually thawing him out! He lay there all warm and happy, and soon began to sing for joy. A passing cat heard the bird singing and came to investigate. Following the sound, the cat discovered the bird under the pile of cow dung, and promptly dug him out and ate him.

Moral of the story:
1. Not everyone who shits on you is your enemy
2. Not everyone who gets you out of shit is your friend
3. And when you’re in deep shit, it’s best to keep your mouth shut!

BRILLIANT WAYS GIRLS TURN GUYS DOWN!!!

HE: I'm a photographer I've been looking for a face like yours!

SHE: I'm a plastic surgeon. I've been looking for a face like
yours!!


HE: May I have the pleasure of this dance?

SHE: No, I'd like to have some pleasure too!!!


HE: How did you get to be so beautiful?

SHE: I must have been given your share!!!


HE: Will you come out with me this Saturday?

SHE: Sorry! I'm having a headache this weekend!!!


HE: Go on, don't be shy. Ask me out!

SHE: Okay, get out!!!


HE: I think I could make you very happy

SHE: Why? Are you leaving?


HE: What would you say if I asked u to marry me?

SHE: Nothing. I can't talk and laugh at the same time!!!


HE: Can I have your name?

SHE: Why, don't you already have one?


HE: Shall we go and see a film?

SHE: I've already seen it!!!


HE: Do you think it was fate that brought us together?

SHE: Nah, it was plain bad luck!!!


HE: Where have you been all my life?

SHE: Hiding from you.


HE: Haven't I seen you someplace before?

SHE: Yes, thats why I don't go there anymore.


HE: Is this seat empty?

SHE: Yes, and this one will be if you sit down .

                                                                - author unknown (but probably a woman ;-)