RESPECTED VIP, KINDLY RSVP
Dear VIP (very important politician),
Heartiest congratulations mister minister, from all us Surtis of this sparkling diamond city! Your contribution to our town has been quiet unequivocal and praiseworthy, in lieu of which you have been chosen to inaugurate our eighth flyover.
Built at a cost of Rs.59 crore, this 962 meters long piece of architecture is ‘Hors de prix’-priceless, because of the fact that not only did we uproot our signature mini Eiffel tower for it but also that denizens of an age group that ranges from kids upto the ready to kick the bucket kind, residing around it went through several sleepless nights so that it could be constructed in good time.
Many a night, beyond 1 a.m in the mornings, when the noise got unbearable and disturbed ailing elders, board exam students, pregnant mothers to be, newly born infants and us all, most of us dialed 100 to place a complaint at the Umra police station in vain, as we were promptly told to grin and bear the drone till the wee hours of the morning since, “flyover publicna sukh maatey baney chey, jetlu jaldi bani jay, public ne laabh thay.”(The flyover is for the benefit of the public, the earlier it is constructed, the better)
While the citizens of this area have sacrificed their sleep and are waiting to exhale with a sigh of relief to breathe easy, there are other Surtis who have sacrificed sweat,burnt petrol and boiled blood while trying to maneuver their vehicles with extreme difficulty on the rain ravished pot holed single track lanes, desperately awaiting the flyover to take over the problem of saving precious time, if not kilometers by smoothly branching out traffic.
School buses and the bachha brigade that rides on them are looking forward to return home earlier, Ambulances and fire brigade rescuers hope to reach their destinations faster, travelers to and from the airport where the lone flight arrives and departs during busy traffic hours within the town are looking forward to the brisk connectivity, as are railway passengers who will be able to access the station sooner. Surtis, who regularly saunter out on Sundays in search of the Arabian Sea, are looking to fly high over Parle Point’s first and only flyover that exists in this part of the town.
Since Diwali, we await the inaugural of the same and while officials are still non committal about the D date, we are sure you would know better about the reason why the same has been indefinitely delayed and postponed.
We Surtis are known to treat our guests like gods-Atithi Devo Bhav is our motto and out of habit, we shall tend to tempt you with our winter goodies such as Undhiyu, Ponk and Salempak.
Kindly take this request in right earnest and request your office to provide you a date so that you may grace the occasion of the Parle Point flyover’s inauguration with your august presence this December, so that we may all have a happy new year.
Truly, your sincere Surtis.
P.S.-While we make the best hosts, the average Surti does not care who takes the credit of this bone of contention between man and minister, because the priority here is about facility to, for and by the public, which was the original purpose. With our past record of inaugurating the Amroli bridge by ourselves and the present rumor of a Facebook campaign to walk over the flyover, hurry before we banish the barricades!
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Awaaz Nichey, This Diwali
A recent study in New York has showed that loud noise features high in the list of ‘Everyday things that can kill you.’
The thumping, pounding, honking, wielding, cutting, jutting, digging, building, filling, constructing along with a zillion other noises that we denizens are unwillingly subjected to as part of an accepted curse of city life is partially responsible for stress, blood pressure, insomnia, hearing disorders and many other health woes that turn us into weaker humans than we are, that too without us as much as realizing the same.
With the near completion of the Parle Point flyover, as we got to print, suburban Surtis are set for peaceful slumber, or so they think. After months of cement ,dust and the most thunderous thumps entering their homes day in and night out, they are in hope of experiencing nights as they once knew them-all peace and quiet. But, are we really in for some silent bliss just yet?
Am afraid, not. Via the recent sale of vehicles worth more than Rs.6 Crores on a single day, supposedly auspicious, Tapi town will be witness to a roaring road wave as 2-3-4 wheelers rage through the already conspicuous lanes within the city. Pot holes be damned, Surtis are now used to spending anything from 20 to 45 extra minutes commuting on roads that could put dirt bike racing to shame. Accompanied by constant blowing of horns and musical tunes that go off when cars reverse, which are way above the recommended decibel level that invade the human ear. For all you know, we might even have special new classes to teach the art of delicate maneuvering the metal catacombs formed on our not so full of mettle roads.
While the honking orchestration continues at crossroads during the day, along with brain numbing mobile ring tones that blare off catching you absolutely unawares, we now have news of some super sales of firecrackers which seem to have broken recent records of recession. Now really, tell me, does this love for ‘fatakdas’ (firecrackers silly, not a slang for good looking males as in ‘fatakdi’ for girls) generate from the fact that they are known as ‘darukhana’, I mean what’s the addiction to the kind of intoxication they are known to generate-flash of light accompanied by deafening sound resulting in toxic smoke and rubbish that’s strewn upon lanes that have seen better days, ages ago.
With innumerable unlicensed kiosks of crackers having sprouted up around Tapi town, God alone knows how much risk we are subjecting our children to while officially allowing them to fire up gimmicks-most of which are prepared by lesser fortunate children. Speaking of whom, isn’t it about time we grew up from the fact that the success of your past and future business year is not all about which lala’s loom crackles the longest (no pun intended).
Just as the speeches by Shiv Sena Supremos were monitored for their decibel capacity by an NGO –Awaaz in Mumbai recently, methinks it’s about time that our ‘Lalaland’ got a dose of the same medicine. Any surveys within Tapi town would be sure to show our eardrums shouting out loud for help.Surtis-never known to be subtle in their style, need to make an effort to value the strength of silence. And a great way to begin would be precisely at this time of the year; by having a fantastic Diwali and a fabulous New Year with double the fun and half the noise. Let’s celebrate with awaaz nichey, what say?
Tapi town tattle- Bus, stop!
A recent study in New York has showed that loud noise features high in the list of ‘Everyday things that can kill you.’
The thumping, pounding, honking, wielding, cutting, jutting, digging, building, filling, constructing along with a zillion other noises that we denizens are unwillingly subjected to as part of an accepted curse of city life is partially responsible for stress, blood pressure, insomnia, hearing disorders and many other health woes that turn us into weaker humans than we are, that too without us as much as realizing the same.
With the near completion of the Parle Point flyover, as we got to print, suburban Surtis are set for peaceful slumber, or so they think. After months of cement ,dust and the most thunderous thumps entering their homes day in and night out, they are in hope of experiencing nights as they once knew them-all peace and quiet. But, are we really in for some silent bliss just yet?
Am afraid, not. Via the recent sale of vehicles worth more than Rs.6 Crores on a single day, supposedly auspicious, Tapi town will be witness to a roaring road wave as 2-3-4 wheelers rage through the already conspicuous lanes within the city. Pot holes be damned, Surtis are now used to spending anything from 20 to 45 extra minutes commuting on roads that could put dirt bike racing to shame. Accompanied by constant blowing of horns and musical tunes that go off when cars reverse, which are way above the recommended decibel level that invade the human ear. For all you know, we might even have special new classes to teach the art of delicate maneuvering the metal catacombs formed on our not so full of mettle roads.
While the honking orchestration continues at crossroads during the day, along with brain numbing mobile ring tones that blare off catching you absolutely unawares, we now have news of some super sales of firecrackers which seem to have broken recent records of recession. Now really, tell me, does this love for ‘fatakdas’ (firecrackers silly, not a slang for good looking males as in ‘fatakdi’ for girls) generate from the fact that they are known as ‘darukhana’, I mean what’s the addiction to the kind of intoxication they are known to generate-flash of light accompanied by deafening sound resulting in toxic smoke and rubbish that’s strewn upon lanes that have seen better days, ages ago.
With innumerable unlicensed kiosks of crackers having sprouted up around Tapi town, God alone knows how much risk we are subjecting our children to while officially allowing them to fire up gimmicks-most of which are prepared by lesser fortunate children. Speaking of whom, isn’t it about time we grew up from the fact that the success of your past and future business year is not all about which lala’s loom crackles the longest (no pun intended).
Just as the speeches by Shiv Sena Supremos were monitored for their decibel capacity by an NGO –Awaaz in Mumbai recently, methinks it’s about time that our ‘Lalaland’ got a dose of the same medicine. Any surveys within Tapi town would be sure to show our eardrums shouting out loud for help.Surtis-never known to be subtle in their style, need to make an effort to value the strength of silence. And a great way to begin would be precisely at this time of the year; by having a fantastic Diwali and a fabulous New Year with double the fun and half the noise. Let’s celebrate with awaaz nichey, what say?
Tapi town tattle- Bus, stop!
Thursday, October 28, 2010
New Answers To Old Questions Anyone?
No sooner has the brightest moonlit night of the year passed; with Surtis gorging out on the Sharad Poonam and Chandipadva night that the agenda for the next set of festivities during the forthcoming fortnight has been set.
Social Surtis who qualify as official tattlers around town are armed with their usual questionnaire to attack the unassuming common man /woman /child. It is not as if these questions have been inspired by the new season of” Kaun Banega Crorepati’, rather it revolves around the theme of ‘Kyaa kareyga crorepati”?
Like, no matter how high up in the social ladder you are, you will be asked,”Diwali ni safaai thay gayee?”(Have you cleaned up for Diwali?) If you are left frazzled wondering what is it about this routine of” cleanliness is next to Godliness ‘during Diwali, well, its just an age old custom practiced by our ancestors to clear away the previous year’s waste, gathered with squirrel like skill. Unused and used goods now rendered useless will be presented with philanthropic pride to staff members who eagerly help out in this tedious routine. Often things like, clothes, utensils, cosmetics, toys etc which have seen better days, come tumbling out of lofts and closets. While some find better use in a lesser home, other unfortunate stuff will be re-bundled and loaded back up there for next year’s spring cleaning season. Once you have managed to answer that your home is already clean and does not need to be de-cluttered, you will be given a dirty look with an unconvincing nod saying ,’amaarey tyaa toh karvij padey .”(We have to do it.)
Up next you will be attacked by, “Diwali maa shu karo cho?” No really, now tell me, ever since lord Rama returned to Ayodhya,Indians have been celebrating it by –lighting lamps,feasting,wearing new clothes and, after the advent of crackers ,bursting the same. The good part about this question is that you need not answer it; the person who has asked it will then immediately let you know about his/her plan on spending the festival. Be ready to be inundated with an endless shopping list which will feature nothing other than the routine, a grand announcement of how much moolah is going to be burnt up in from of ‘aatashbaaji’by children who know no better (men included), how the atrocious present market rates of all precious metals is not going to hinder the lala’s homemaker from burning a hole in his pocket –Dhanteras being the rescue excuse, how the hardworking lala is going to go in for a reincarnation in the wardrobe to replace crisp linen shirts with ,well ,more crisp linen shirts.
Which brings us to the last and the most entertaining question of them all,”Diwali maan kyaa jao cho.” (Where are you off to, this Diwali?) .No matter what destination you say, you will be told ‘oh there! We went there 4-6-9 years ago. You will be then given an in-depth info about your destination with more zest than the travel agent. Even if the location was visited a decade ago, you will be told about what to do and where to eat and what to shop for, as if the world has come to a standstill since then and that city or country has been frozen in time. God forbid if you answer,” we are not traveling this year’, thou shall then have to lend ear to listen to extensive travel plans of the person who questioned you. Including what food they are going to carry along on the journey. Which is not a bad deal; actually, you could trot the globe with a Surti’s sense of imagination.
No sooner has the brightest moonlit night of the year passed; with Surtis gorging out on the Sharad Poonam and Chandipadva night that the agenda for the next set of festivities during the forthcoming fortnight has been set.
Social Surtis who qualify as official tattlers around town are armed with their usual questionnaire to attack the unassuming common man /woman /child. It is not as if these questions have been inspired by the new season of” Kaun Banega Crorepati’, rather it revolves around the theme of ‘Kyaa kareyga crorepati”?
Like, no matter how high up in the social ladder you are, you will be asked,”Diwali ni safaai thay gayee?”(Have you cleaned up for Diwali?) If you are left frazzled wondering what is it about this routine of” cleanliness is next to Godliness ‘during Diwali, well, its just an age old custom practiced by our ancestors to clear away the previous year’s waste, gathered with squirrel like skill. Unused and used goods now rendered useless will be presented with philanthropic pride to staff members who eagerly help out in this tedious routine. Often things like, clothes, utensils, cosmetics, toys etc which have seen better days, come tumbling out of lofts and closets. While some find better use in a lesser home, other unfortunate stuff will be re-bundled and loaded back up there for next year’s spring cleaning season. Once you have managed to answer that your home is already clean and does not need to be de-cluttered, you will be given a dirty look with an unconvincing nod saying ,’amaarey tyaa toh karvij padey .”(We have to do it.)
Up next you will be attacked by, “Diwali maa shu karo cho?” No really, now tell me, ever since lord Rama returned to Ayodhya,Indians have been celebrating it by –lighting lamps,feasting,wearing new clothes and, after the advent of crackers ,bursting the same. The good part about this question is that you need not answer it; the person who has asked it will then immediately let you know about his/her plan on spending the festival. Be ready to be inundated with an endless shopping list which will feature nothing other than the routine, a grand announcement of how much moolah is going to be burnt up in from of ‘aatashbaaji’by children who know no better (men included), how the atrocious present market rates of all precious metals is not going to hinder the lala’s homemaker from burning a hole in his pocket –Dhanteras being the rescue excuse, how the hardworking lala is going to go in for a reincarnation in the wardrobe to replace crisp linen shirts with ,well ,more crisp linen shirts.
Which brings us to the last and the most entertaining question of them all,”Diwali maan kyaa jao cho.” (Where are you off to, this Diwali?) .No matter what destination you say, you will be told ‘oh there! We went there 4-6-9 years ago. You will be then given an in-depth info about your destination with more zest than the travel agent. Even if the location was visited a decade ago, you will be told about what to do and where to eat and what to shop for, as if the world has come to a standstill since then and that city or country has been frozen in time. God forbid if you answer,” we are not traveling this year’, thou shall then have to lend ear to listen to extensive travel plans of the person who questioned you. Including what food they are going to carry along on the journey. Which is not a bad deal; actually, you could trot the globe with a Surti’s sense of imagination.
FESTIVE FINGER FOOD FARE
The spirit of festivals in countries around the earth revolves mainly around its traditions and traditional food fare. Surat being no exception enhances its sense of celebration with home made goodies that disappear as soon as they are dished out.
Migrants who have waded into the city for a better monetary future often wonder why the average Surti, however wealthy , is so proud of something as simple as ‘Diwali nastas’ and displays it with such maternal pride. Over time, these very same outsiders not only get hooked on to the tasty treats but more often than not end up imitating the trend.
Now that the marigold strewn lanes of Tapi town have been witness to the crispy fafda and crunchy jalebi fervor of Dussera, Surtis are all set to devour sinfully smooth gharis as they swoon below the Chandi padva moon. The week after which, woks and pans in domestic kitchens will be sizzling with savories.
The easy to make ready to fry last minute versions that are commercially available might give instant relief to many Surtis who are mental slaves to the festive favourites but these packed to fry versions wilt in comparison to the heavenly home made treats. The successes of these receipes lie in the purity of their ingredients as well as the exact tactfully measured amount from granny’s days, which have been rolled down the ages.
Uptill the 1960’s, Surtis often got their own custom made batch of nankhatais baked at local bakeries, by providing their own wheat flour, sugar and ghee to small time bakers who made tray full of these sweet cookies and marked them according to the orders placed by segregating them with different stones! Variations in these were the ones prepared from plain flour, sooji and milk, topped with almonds.
The original Diwali treats of Tapi town are the Ghooghras- which are basically hand made plain flour dumplings deep fried in clarified butter stuffed with minced milk mawa, embellished with dried fruit and nuts, with a hint of cardamom.
The flaky ‘cholafali’-a spiral of fried chola and udad dal twists sprinkled with a sudden burst of powdered spice are originally from Ahmedabad, where kiosks sell this preparation as a tea time snack around the year.
The ‘mathiyas’-a melt in the mouth version of fried papad made from the flour of math and udad dal are an innovation from Patels of Anand and Vadodra from where till date the best versions of these in an uncooked form are driven into town.
The ‘chakris’ –swirls of spicy wheat flour bound with fresh butter crunchies , that are known as Murrukku down south in their rice flour versions also have a new fancy avatars in chatpata ,roasted soy and bajri versions which of course are no threat to the evergreen sesame dotted originals.
Along with these main show stoppers, palates will also be pleased with thapdas, kharkhariyas and suvalis making it a cracker of a package that tastes as terrific as it sounds.
With the changing times, Surti gals who run non commercial ventures from homes have polished up their culinary skills to present new goodies to treat the town with.Rakhi Dhamanwala the pioneer of the rich and famous cheese samosas will be conjuring up diet friendly desi dry snacks, while the naturally gifted gourmet Sonia Sahni will be belting out sensuous sinful brownies that are laced with international chocolates. The effervescent charmer Cheena Bhatia has plans to present Mint, Toffee, Truffle and other exotic chocolates in pretty packaging.
Surat sure seems set for a sugar and spice and all that’s nice season ahead.
The spirit of festivals in countries around the earth revolves mainly around its traditions and traditional food fare. Surat being no exception enhances its sense of celebration with home made goodies that disappear as soon as they are dished out.
Migrants who have waded into the city for a better monetary future often wonder why the average Surti, however wealthy , is so proud of something as simple as ‘Diwali nastas’ and displays it with such maternal pride. Over time, these very same outsiders not only get hooked on to the tasty treats but more often than not end up imitating the trend.
Now that the marigold strewn lanes of Tapi town have been witness to the crispy fafda and crunchy jalebi fervor of Dussera, Surtis are all set to devour sinfully smooth gharis as they swoon below the Chandi padva moon. The week after which, woks and pans in domestic kitchens will be sizzling with savories.
The easy to make ready to fry last minute versions that are commercially available might give instant relief to many Surtis who are mental slaves to the festive favourites but these packed to fry versions wilt in comparison to the heavenly home made treats. The successes of these receipes lie in the purity of their ingredients as well as the exact tactfully measured amount from granny’s days, which have been rolled down the ages.
Uptill the 1960’s, Surtis often got their own custom made batch of nankhatais baked at local bakeries, by providing their own wheat flour, sugar and ghee to small time bakers who made tray full of these sweet cookies and marked them according to the orders placed by segregating them with different stones! Variations in these were the ones prepared from plain flour, sooji and milk, topped with almonds.
The original Diwali treats of Tapi town are the Ghooghras- which are basically hand made plain flour dumplings deep fried in clarified butter stuffed with minced milk mawa, embellished with dried fruit and nuts, with a hint of cardamom.
The flaky ‘cholafali’-a spiral of fried chola and udad dal twists sprinkled with a sudden burst of powdered spice are originally from Ahmedabad, where kiosks sell this preparation as a tea time snack around the year.
The ‘mathiyas’-a melt in the mouth version of fried papad made from the flour of math and udad dal are an innovation from Patels of Anand and Vadodra from where till date the best versions of these in an uncooked form are driven into town.
The ‘chakris’ –swirls of spicy wheat flour bound with fresh butter crunchies , that are known as Murrukku down south in their rice flour versions also have a new fancy avatars in chatpata ,roasted soy and bajri versions which of course are no threat to the evergreen sesame dotted originals.
Along with these main show stoppers, palates will also be pleased with thapdas, kharkhariyas and suvalis making it a cracker of a package that tastes as terrific as it sounds.
With the changing times, Surti gals who run non commercial ventures from homes have polished up their culinary skills to present new goodies to treat the town with.Rakhi Dhamanwala the pioneer of the rich and famous cheese samosas will be conjuring up diet friendly desi dry snacks, while the naturally gifted gourmet Sonia Sahni will be belting out sensuous sinful brownies that are laced with international chocolates. The effervescent charmer Cheena Bhatia has plans to present Mint, Toffee, Truffle and other exotic chocolates in pretty packaging.
Surat sure seems set for a sugar and spice and all that’s nice season ahead.
Monday, September 20, 2010
EAT, PRAY, LOVE
Hollywood hottie Julia Roberts’s new flick may or may not hit bull’s eye at the box office in India, but the truth is, Surti’s have been living on this mantra, as a way of life; especially so, in these past few fortnights .
The’ Adhik maas ‘(extra month, not fat, silly) of the Hindu calendar year, insured many a festival to intermingle with the faith and festivity dates of another. And, Tapi towners have been religiously following the regime of ‘khai, pi ne jalsa karo ‘(eat, drink and make merry), even as they prayed all the way, doing so.
The Shravan month was observed with the obvious absence of foodies at all public eateries, contrary to popular belief, fasting in Surat is more like feasting. Surtis stuck to the rules of eating one meal a day which was more like an all inclusive fare from sherbet to shrikhands.Also, the Ghanchi, Rana and Khatri communities in town believe that Shravan is the month when “fartu nahi khaavanu pun tartu khavai” (don’t consume that which roams, but do consume that which swims) A special fish breed called ‘Modar’ known for its rich fillet of eggs is a pricey delicacy that’s part of Surti Shravan must haves.
Even as Shravan threatened to fizzle Iftar’s sizzle, the holy month of Ramadan for our Muslim brothers at Chowk, Zhampa bazaar and Rander saw no dearth of enthusiast eaters. The bylanes beside the beautiful Chunarwaad Masjid in the city of mosques, where little boys run around after the evening Azaan, saw many a retired rayeez moonlighting annual festive Rangooni fare; but, the real treats are within the walled city homes where morning Sehris begin with fish shaped bread and nalli niharis simmered on a slow boil. The Sopariwallas at Shalimar Baug savour an exotic Kheema salan receipe, prepared exclusively for brekkar on Eid morning.
Early mornings also saw the Jains venture out to the derasars for ‘pratikaman’ and ‘parna’, during ‘Pajyushan, the,’ the eight days of abstinence that culminate into repentance for the misdeeds of the previous year. As they went off fresh greens, home made meals concocted via age old traditions found steam.Dal dhoklis, banana and dried fenugreek bhajiyas ,sweet and sour pancakes, made up for mini meals along with thick warm curd. The exquisite Chintamani Parshvnath temple, a treasure trove of intricate carvings that was built during the regime of Emporer Aurangzeb during 1699 A.D.is by far one of the most precious pulchritudinous premise of architecture from that age. Well visited during these pious days, it is surrounded by kiosks that sell dry snacks such as gathiya, paasa, fulwadi, kharkhariyas that make for yummilicious tea time serves.
The Krishna Janmashtami and dahi handi events sailed smooth, with people power fuelled enthusiasm; albeit, some unfortunate souls were caught with a full hand, so to say.
Even as the D day for all of the above was shared with the advent of the God of fun things-Ganesha, there was a harmonious, happy mood flowing around town. As versatile as the good God Ganesha himself is, is the cuisine that Surtis will be seen relishing around pandals put up in his glory. Grub streets around town buzz up like never before, doling out paani puri to nylon dosas to vada paav and more. Kabootar Khana’s age old replica idol as well as the ‘all that glitter, its gold’Daliya Sheri special, are the ones that witness most devotees.
German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche had once said that, “I would believe only in a God that knows to dance”, lets hope our dearest Ganesha keeps him busy up there, after all, Surtis are busy playing “Munni badnaam ‘numbers for him down here and loving it.
Hollywood hottie Julia Roberts’s new flick may or may not hit bull’s eye at the box office in India, but the truth is, Surti’s have been living on this mantra, as a way of life; especially so, in these past few fortnights .
The’ Adhik maas ‘(extra month, not fat, silly) of the Hindu calendar year, insured many a festival to intermingle with the faith and festivity dates of another. And, Tapi towners have been religiously following the regime of ‘khai, pi ne jalsa karo ‘(eat, drink and make merry), even as they prayed all the way, doing so.
The Shravan month was observed with the obvious absence of foodies at all public eateries, contrary to popular belief, fasting in Surat is more like feasting. Surtis stuck to the rules of eating one meal a day which was more like an all inclusive fare from sherbet to shrikhands.Also, the Ghanchi, Rana and Khatri communities in town believe that Shravan is the month when “fartu nahi khaavanu pun tartu khavai” (don’t consume that which roams, but do consume that which swims) A special fish breed called ‘Modar’ known for its rich fillet of eggs is a pricey delicacy that’s part of Surti Shravan must haves.
Even as Shravan threatened to fizzle Iftar’s sizzle, the holy month of Ramadan for our Muslim brothers at Chowk, Zhampa bazaar and Rander saw no dearth of enthusiast eaters. The bylanes beside the beautiful Chunarwaad Masjid in the city of mosques, where little boys run around after the evening Azaan, saw many a retired rayeez moonlighting annual festive Rangooni fare; but, the real treats are within the walled city homes where morning Sehris begin with fish shaped bread and nalli niharis simmered on a slow boil. The Sopariwallas at Shalimar Baug savour an exotic Kheema salan receipe, prepared exclusively for brekkar on Eid morning.
Early mornings also saw the Jains venture out to the derasars for ‘pratikaman’ and ‘parna’, during ‘Pajyushan, the,’ the eight days of abstinence that culminate into repentance for the misdeeds of the previous year. As they went off fresh greens, home made meals concocted via age old traditions found steam.Dal dhoklis, banana and dried fenugreek bhajiyas ,sweet and sour pancakes, made up for mini meals along with thick warm curd. The exquisite Chintamani Parshvnath temple, a treasure trove of intricate carvings that was built during the regime of Emporer Aurangzeb during 1699 A.D.is by far one of the most precious pulchritudinous premise of architecture from that age. Well visited during these pious days, it is surrounded by kiosks that sell dry snacks such as gathiya, paasa, fulwadi, kharkhariyas that make for yummilicious tea time serves.
The Krishna Janmashtami and dahi handi events sailed smooth, with people power fuelled enthusiasm; albeit, some unfortunate souls were caught with a full hand, so to say.
Even as the D day for all of the above was shared with the advent of the God of fun things-Ganesha, there was a harmonious, happy mood flowing around town. As versatile as the good God Ganesha himself is, is the cuisine that Surtis will be seen relishing around pandals put up in his glory. Grub streets around town buzz up like never before, doling out paani puri to nylon dosas to vada paav and more. Kabootar Khana’s age old replica idol as well as the ‘all that glitter, its gold’Daliya Sheri special, are the ones that witness most devotees.
German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche had once said that, “I would believe only in a God that knows to dance”, lets hope our dearest Ganesha keeps him busy up there, after all, Surtis are busy playing “Munni badnaam ‘numbers for him down here and loving it.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Dilemmas of a Surti writer
The romance of Parle Point fell with the mini Eiffel that we Surtis prided ourselves in.
The Eiffel always was a soft corner for this writer who began penning’ Khoobsurat’three monsoons ago with’ if it’s Eiffel, it must be Parle Point”.
Over the weeks that have flown by, the response from fellow Surtis has been overwhelming and as entertaining as we all are notoriously famous for.
My siblings and I grew up in a home that had a vast library which ranged from Blyton to Gibran. My parents, fond readers themselves, believe in education from the quality of reads, more than institutions.Hence, learning literally began at home, even as my mother aspired aloud (as all mothers do) “paper maan aave evu naam karjo”, and well her wishes came true, in a way.
Today’s Khoobsurat is about sharing the queries that came in from all of you.
The Glamour-
Pretty Neighbor-Oh! Did YOU write on the Eiffel today? Journalists are paid very badly, you know?
At a party-Why do they only run your photograph and no other writer’s? Oh, you are a columnist? So, special treatment?
Via e-mail-Hiiiiiiii! Will you do frensip?
School senior –I also write, on how dirty and corrupt the bahumali is, they never run what I send. Whom did you send your article to?
Sister from USA over phone-Girl, you should always get your hair done before taking a photo! Change your photo please.
Via SMS-aapse bhi KHOOBSURAT aapke andaaz hai!
At a restaurant-Aren’t you the person who writes Khoobsurat? Your photo size changes with every article
Father-Your face looks like a weather balloon. Does Khoob-surat mean ‘lots of face”? Writing and all is fine but you are too intelligent to not do something about your weight.
Reader-I file all your articles, do you?
Husband-Where is your mind?
The Gumption
Friends-How much can you write about Surat?
Readers-Why do you write only about Surat?
Visitors-You write so much, about Surat?
Maternal grand mother-You haven’t written enough about Surat, have you?
Via email-Now that you have written about kitly tea, when will you cover the coffee hotspots?
Via sms –Can you write about khaman and dhokla and fafda and marcha with the recipes also?
Via –email-I went and ate all that you wrote in your column and put on 2 kilos in two weeks.
Via email-We are lucky to know about historical culture of town can you write more days of the week?
Via phone call-Can I meet you?
Via email-I also write, where did you learn to write?
At a kiosk-Have you written about these vada pavs yet?
Strangers-What are the advertising rates? Are there discounts for obituaries?
Friends-How could you write this about us?
Friends-How could you not write this about us?
Strangers-Will you write this about us?
Spouse-Which world do you live in?
The Guts-
Via email-Can you write more about alcohol and dry state.
Via SMS-Don’t you think you write too much about alcohol in a dry state?
I was born a Patel, but as the name up there suggests, have a boisterous fun loving Punjabi ma in law who has a social circle equal to the population of Australia. Ever so often whenever she drops in, she inadvertently finds me with my head huddled into the puter.
” Ki kardi pay hai? Jado dikho likhdi padhdi hai” she remarks fondly (what are you doing? always reading or writing) “Kinne paise mildey ne enni mehnat de?”(How much do they pay you for all this hard work?)
As I dig my head even lower in the lap top and mumble my meager means as a writer,she is shocked and says,”Hai! Enne paise mein ki honnda hai aaj kal, chad parey, chal bahar nikal, kitty join Karle!”(What happens with such little money these days? leave all this and come join a kitty).
Mr. Khurana-Do you have ANY clue about what’s going on in the house?????????????
The Glory-
Readers-Your column make us laugh and learn.
“Your column today, touched our hearts and we cried it out.”
The romance of Parle Point fell with the mini Eiffel that we Surtis prided ourselves in.
The Eiffel always was a soft corner for this writer who began penning’ Khoobsurat’three monsoons ago with’ if it’s Eiffel, it must be Parle Point”.
Over the weeks that have flown by, the response from fellow Surtis has been overwhelming and as entertaining as we all are notoriously famous for.
My siblings and I grew up in a home that had a vast library which ranged from Blyton to Gibran. My parents, fond readers themselves, believe in education from the quality of reads, more than institutions.Hence, learning literally began at home, even as my mother aspired aloud (as all mothers do) “paper maan aave evu naam karjo”, and well her wishes came true, in a way.
Today’s Khoobsurat is about sharing the queries that came in from all of you.
The Glamour-
Pretty Neighbor-Oh! Did YOU write on the Eiffel today? Journalists are paid very badly, you know?
At a party-Why do they only run your photograph and no other writer’s? Oh, you are a columnist? So, special treatment?
Via e-mail-Hiiiiiiii! Will you do frensip?
School senior –I also write, on how dirty and corrupt the bahumali is, they never run what I send. Whom did you send your article to?
Sister from USA over phone-Girl, you should always get your hair done before taking a photo! Change your photo please.
Via SMS-aapse bhi KHOOBSURAT aapke andaaz hai!
At a restaurant-Aren’t you the person who writes Khoobsurat? Your photo size changes with every article
Father-Your face looks like a weather balloon. Does Khoob-surat mean ‘lots of face”? Writing and all is fine but you are too intelligent to not do something about your weight.
Reader-I file all your articles, do you?
Husband-Where is your mind?
The Gumption
Friends-How much can you write about Surat?
Readers-Why do you write only about Surat?
Visitors-You write so much, about Surat?
Maternal grand mother-You haven’t written enough about Surat, have you?
Via email-Now that you have written about kitly tea, when will you cover the coffee hotspots?
Via sms –Can you write about khaman and dhokla and fafda and marcha with the recipes also?
Via –email-I went and ate all that you wrote in your column and put on 2 kilos in two weeks.
Via email-We are lucky to know about historical culture of town can you write more days of the week?
Via phone call-Can I meet you?
Via email-I also write, where did you learn to write?
At a kiosk-Have you written about these vada pavs yet?
Strangers-What are the advertising rates? Are there discounts for obituaries?
Friends-How could you write this about us?
Friends-How could you not write this about us?
Strangers-Will you write this about us?
Spouse-Which world do you live in?
The Guts-
Via email-Can you write more about alcohol and dry state.
Via SMS-Don’t you think you write too much about alcohol in a dry state?
I was born a Patel, but as the name up there suggests, have a boisterous fun loving Punjabi ma in law who has a social circle equal to the population of Australia. Ever so often whenever she drops in, she inadvertently finds me with my head huddled into the puter.
” Ki kardi pay hai? Jado dikho likhdi padhdi hai” she remarks fondly (what are you doing? always reading or writing) “Kinne paise mildey ne enni mehnat de?”(How much do they pay you for all this hard work?)
As I dig my head even lower in the lap top and mumble my meager means as a writer,she is shocked and says,”Hai! Enne paise mein ki honnda hai aaj kal, chad parey, chal bahar nikal, kitty join Karle!”(What happens with such little money these days? leave all this and come join a kitty).
Mr. Khurana-Do you have ANY clue about what’s going on in the house?????????????
The Glory-
Readers-Your column make us laugh and learn.
“Your column today, touched our hearts and we cried it out.”
Monday, August 9, 2010
Dalda 13 in focus
In ten days from now, in order to commemorate 50 golden years of the photo division, a Media unit of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, we shall witness India’s first National Photo awards.
Amongst the four prestigious recipients for the,’ Lifetime achievement award’is India’s first lady photojournalist, Homai Vyarawalla – aka Dalda 13,a nickname that came from her year of birth, the age at which she met her husband and the number plate of her vehicle in Delhi-DLD 13.
Vyarawalla was born in Navsari on the 9th of December,1913.Her father was a Parsi stage artist with a traveling theatre company ;at a very young age her siblings and she were packed off to Mumbai for higher education.
There have been many moments in this eminent and photogenic photographer’s life, which would tell a story of their own, had she been photographed then, one wonders –
Like how it felt to be the only girl in her class and one who went on to pass matriculation.
Like what was the scene like when she first met Maneckshaw –her husband to be at a railway station?
Like what did she paint during her course at the Sir J J School of Arts?
Like what was the experience like while learning photography and processing the pictures in the dark room.
Like how did she look when she took her first pictures independently, those of the women’s club of Sir J J School of Arts, at a picnic party to the Amarnath temple?
Like what was the look on her face, when she looked at those pictures published full page, in the Bombay Chronicles.
Like how it felt to be the only woman in her field and being paid Re.1 (a big thing) in those days.
Like how she felt sharing the Rolliflex camera with her husband, as they together covered the Mumbai of the 30’s, Hospitals, festivals, beggars, cottage industries, et al.
Like how she looked ,with her practical saree and becoming hair-do, while shooting pictures as a free lancer for The Illustrated Weekly of India, when the war came on.
Like how she was perceived in Lutyen’s Delhi of the 1940’s and 50’s as she bicycled around the town which was then safe for women even at 1 a.m.
Like how she sounded when she instructed all her colleague gentlemen to behave and have ‘no hanky-panky or unnecessary smiling that could be misconstrued.’
Like what was the look on her face when she taught fellow photographers to be ‘propah’, dressed in closed collar shirts and trousers and shoes because theirs was then a respectable profession.
Like how did she react, when they nicknamed her ‘Mummy ‘; out of love and respect.
Like how she and Maneckshaw looked while sharing their plate of food (lifelong) and other responsibilities in life as a 50-50 partnership.
Like the eager expression on her face as awaited her mother in law’s signal, from the terrace across her place of work, when it was time to feed her infant.
Like how it felt to spend a night at the Kurukshetra mela,a petite Parsi armed with a large format speed graphic camera that had a composite wood ,steel and aluminum chassis and weighed more than 6 pounds.
Like how she moved around with joy and child like simplicity in the innermost core of political circles.
Like what was she looking for when she always waited even after events for an out of the ordinary shot, at times perched on a table or stack of crates?
Like how she could behave like a thorough professional and not get carried away in spite of clicking the top politicians and India’s most important historical moments.
Like how she gave up clicking after being disillusioned at the sights that changed with the times after a career that spanned from the 1930’s to the 1970’s.
Like how she looks in her new roles as those of being a carpenter, gardener, tailor, plumber, cobbler, barber, gourmet cook in order to lead the independent lifestyle she has always led.
Yes, there have been many moments so far, in the life of Homai Vyarawalla, which would have made fabulous, precious photographs. One such moment will be on the 19th of August.
Though she hates being in front of the camera, this young lady will be bringing as much as dignity to the front of lens focus, as she brought from behind it.
In ten days from now, in order to commemorate 50 golden years of the photo division, a Media unit of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, we shall witness India’s first National Photo awards.
Amongst the four prestigious recipients for the,’ Lifetime achievement award’is India’s first lady photojournalist, Homai Vyarawalla – aka Dalda 13,a nickname that came from her year of birth, the age at which she met her husband and the number plate of her vehicle in Delhi-DLD 13.
Vyarawalla was born in Navsari on the 9th of December,1913.Her father was a Parsi stage artist with a traveling theatre company ;at a very young age her siblings and she were packed off to Mumbai for higher education.
There have been many moments in this eminent and photogenic photographer’s life, which would tell a story of their own, had she been photographed then, one wonders –
Like how it felt to be the only girl in her class and one who went on to pass matriculation.
Like what was the scene like when she first met Maneckshaw –her husband to be at a railway station?
Like what did she paint during her course at the Sir J J School of Arts?
Like what was the experience like while learning photography and processing the pictures in the dark room.
Like how did she look when she took her first pictures independently, those of the women’s club of Sir J J School of Arts, at a picnic party to the Amarnath temple?
Like what was the look on her face, when she looked at those pictures published full page, in the Bombay Chronicles.
Like how it felt to be the only woman in her field and being paid Re.1 (a big thing) in those days.
Like how she felt sharing the Rolliflex camera with her husband, as they together covered the Mumbai of the 30’s, Hospitals, festivals, beggars, cottage industries, et al.
Like how she looked ,with her practical saree and becoming hair-do, while shooting pictures as a free lancer for The Illustrated Weekly of India, when the war came on.
Like how she was perceived in Lutyen’s Delhi of the 1940’s and 50’s as she bicycled around the town which was then safe for women even at 1 a.m.
Like how she sounded when she instructed all her colleague gentlemen to behave and have ‘no hanky-panky or unnecessary smiling that could be misconstrued.’
Like what was the look on her face when she taught fellow photographers to be ‘propah’, dressed in closed collar shirts and trousers and shoes because theirs was then a respectable profession.
Like how did she react, when they nicknamed her ‘Mummy ‘; out of love and respect.
Like how she and Maneckshaw looked while sharing their plate of food (lifelong) and other responsibilities in life as a 50-50 partnership.
Like the eager expression on her face as awaited her mother in law’s signal, from the terrace across her place of work, when it was time to feed her infant.
Like how it felt to spend a night at the Kurukshetra mela,a petite Parsi armed with a large format speed graphic camera that had a composite wood ,steel and aluminum chassis and weighed more than 6 pounds.
Like how she moved around with joy and child like simplicity in the innermost core of political circles.
Like what was she looking for when she always waited even after events for an out of the ordinary shot, at times perched on a table or stack of crates?
Like how she could behave like a thorough professional and not get carried away in spite of clicking the top politicians and India’s most important historical moments.
Like how she gave up clicking after being disillusioned at the sights that changed with the times after a career that spanned from the 1930’s to the 1970’s.
Like how she looks in her new roles as those of being a carpenter, gardener, tailor, plumber, cobbler, barber, gourmet cook in order to lead the independent lifestyle she has always led.
Yes, there have been many moments so far, in the life of Homai Vyarawalla, which would have made fabulous, precious photographs. One such moment will be on the 19th of August.
Though she hates being in front of the camera, this young lady will be bringing as much as dignity to the front of lens focus, as she brought from behind it.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
TAPI TOWN'S TRIANGULAR TUBER TREATS
‘Samosa kyun na khaya? Joota kyoon na pehna?
Tala na tha.’-Khusrau,circa 1300.
Why wasn’t the samosa eaten? Why wasn’t the shoe worn?
Wasn’t fried (the samosa); didn’t have a sole (the shoe).
As if being featured in Amir Khusrau’s ‘Dosukhnay’, renditions in Delhi during the 13th century, participating in Ibn Batuta’s travelogues of 1334 and holding a permanent place in the royal daawat’s,’ Ain –i-Akbari’- Emporer Akbar’s gourmet spread, wasn’t enough;the 'sambusak'is still that one delicacy around which conversations revolve.
‘Samosa’ a central Asian invention - the patty notorious for prolific fillings, continues to be India’s favourite tea time treat and, Tapi town is no exception.
Since we have already done a delicious thesis on our famous ‘Mad man’s triangles ‘(gandabhai na samosa )and other such Surti treats where gram dal,yam,cheese etc make the main matter, fried within thin crispy shells; lets now take a peek within the suburban tuber treats in town.
Popularity of suburban Surat’s samosas is segregated according to the phase of a student’s life.
Kindly note that nostalgia might hit you while reading the lines henceforth.
If you were educated in institutions around Timalyawaad, Nanpura or Dutch Garden, Samosas from Kailash sweets, those spicy parcels of chopped potatoes, dotted with green peas, seasoned with cumin and spiked with garam masala must surely mean a melancholic mouthful.Kailash samosas were the brain child of the late Kishinchand Ahuja who pioneered Punjabi samosas in Surat, way back in 1966.The receipe remains an exclusive hot seller till date. Seeped in drippy, dense tamarind chutney, that makes a fine accompaniment to this crusty crudity.
Students of colleges in and around Athwalines swear by bonding over the South Indian samosa avatars dished out by perennially popular Mysore Café, privacy provider-Priya cafe and of course, the king of kiosks-Shetty who ventured into partnership with ‘Atithya.’ The deep fried filos from here consist of minced mashed tubers that have been boiled beyond limits; a slight dash of ginger -chilli, a sparse sprinkle of coriander leaves, lemon drops and sugar is what all three are commonly laced with. Served with refreshing coconut chutney (the only authentic South Indian detail in the deal), these flaky crusts disappear as soon as they are served, over chatter and chai.
Convent girls and boys who were educated at the institution of Our Lady of Lourdes, know for a fact that just as their school which was always considered ‘different’, so also, their canteen samosa - that still makes them shamelessly salivate, tastes like none other.
Samosas for Lourdes are actually made in a teenie weenie room, in a strip of a lane, exactly opposite to the Muslim Yatimkhana, that leads into the back area of what used once be Dhiraj Sons Fashion Shoppe, Athwagate. Fried in a huge wok over a kerosene stove, there is no fancy board outside to advertise these knock out morning cholesterol crunchies that are sold out by 10 a.m, max.
Here is the catch, the elderly Maharashtrian gentleman who invented these took a promise from the gen nexters of the family,”never sell these without frying, lest the secret ingredients be known.”. Hence, even people who order over a hundred pieces of these precious parcels ,have to make do with a pre fried version of pasty poha worked with potato, enmeshed with minimal ginger chilli paste and wrapped in plain flour dough.
With multiplexes on Bhatar and Dumas road, which make for college bunking hours and tuition classes on Ghodod road and Citylight area, student special samosas now have many new avatars and addresses like Agra and Shiv Shakti sweets from where they are sold out.
In Surat, it is impossible to bite into a samosa without bringing up masti filled memories of those yaari-dosti years. Friendships here have thrived on sharing these.
‘Samosa kyun na khaya? Joota kyoon na pehna?
Tala na tha.’-Khusrau,circa 1300.
Why wasn’t the samosa eaten? Why wasn’t the shoe worn?
Wasn’t fried (the samosa); didn’t have a sole (the shoe).
As if being featured in Amir Khusrau’s ‘Dosukhnay’, renditions in Delhi during the 13th century, participating in Ibn Batuta’s travelogues of 1334 and holding a permanent place in the royal daawat’s,’ Ain –i-Akbari’- Emporer Akbar’s gourmet spread, wasn’t enough;the 'sambusak'is still that one delicacy around which conversations revolve.
‘Samosa’ a central Asian invention - the patty notorious for prolific fillings, continues to be India’s favourite tea time treat and, Tapi town is no exception.
Since we have already done a delicious thesis on our famous ‘Mad man’s triangles ‘(gandabhai na samosa )and other such Surti treats where gram dal,yam,cheese etc make the main matter, fried within thin crispy shells; lets now take a peek within the suburban tuber treats in town.
Popularity of suburban Surat’s samosas is segregated according to the phase of a student’s life.
Kindly note that nostalgia might hit you while reading the lines henceforth.
If you were educated in institutions around Timalyawaad, Nanpura or Dutch Garden, Samosas from Kailash sweets, those spicy parcels of chopped potatoes, dotted with green peas, seasoned with cumin and spiked with garam masala must surely mean a melancholic mouthful.Kailash samosas were the brain child of the late Kishinchand Ahuja who pioneered Punjabi samosas in Surat, way back in 1966.The receipe remains an exclusive hot seller till date. Seeped in drippy, dense tamarind chutney, that makes a fine accompaniment to this crusty crudity.
Students of colleges in and around Athwalines swear by bonding over the South Indian samosa avatars dished out by perennially popular Mysore Café, privacy provider-Priya cafe and of course, the king of kiosks-Shetty who ventured into partnership with ‘Atithya.’ The deep fried filos from here consist of minced mashed tubers that have been boiled beyond limits; a slight dash of ginger -chilli, a sparse sprinkle of coriander leaves, lemon drops and sugar is what all three are commonly laced with. Served with refreshing coconut chutney (the only authentic South Indian detail in the deal), these flaky crusts disappear as soon as they are served, over chatter and chai.
Convent girls and boys who were educated at the institution of Our Lady of Lourdes, know for a fact that just as their school which was always considered ‘different’, so also, their canteen samosa - that still makes them shamelessly salivate, tastes like none other.
Samosas for Lourdes are actually made in a teenie weenie room, in a strip of a lane, exactly opposite to the Muslim Yatimkhana, that leads into the back area of what used once be Dhiraj Sons Fashion Shoppe, Athwagate. Fried in a huge wok over a kerosene stove, there is no fancy board outside to advertise these knock out morning cholesterol crunchies that are sold out by 10 a.m, max.
Here is the catch, the elderly Maharashtrian gentleman who invented these took a promise from the gen nexters of the family,”never sell these without frying, lest the secret ingredients be known.”. Hence, even people who order over a hundred pieces of these precious parcels ,have to make do with a pre fried version of pasty poha worked with potato, enmeshed with minimal ginger chilli paste and wrapped in plain flour dough.
With multiplexes on Bhatar and Dumas road, which make for college bunking hours and tuition classes on Ghodod road and Citylight area, student special samosas now have many new avatars and addresses like Agra and Shiv Shakti sweets from where they are sold out.
In Surat, it is impossible to bite into a samosa without bringing up masti filled memories of those yaari-dosti years. Friendships here have thrived on sharing these.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
SALIENT FEATURES OF FIFA 2010
As the FIFA fervor has now bid us adieu and the war of words between overdressed saas-bahu serials will return to family drawing rooms, it will sadly be time for some predictable monotonous drama once again.
Surtis who love to comment while watching stuff whether it’s the television screen or the silverscreen, will be silenced by the ‘dukhi atmas’ of the idiot box who always seem to be in doldrums.
Here are some salient features of FIFA 2010, as pointed out by Surtis around Tapi town, in random order-
“Vuvu jhela”
“Watte ae sott”
“First time any host country has been eliminated in the first round.”
“Aa who karey chey? (What are you doing?)”
“Oh pelaa Nicholas Anelka ne suspense kari nakhyo!”(The said player was suspended)
“I love David Beckham; hope they show more of him.”
“Maar, maar o jaldi maaaaaaar!”(Hit, hit o hit it quickly!)
“Vuvuzelas are horny trumpets”
“This is not a gentleman’s game.”
“Aa Drogba ni hairstyle haari chey, holvij na padey! (Drogba’s hairstyle is cool, needs no combing)
“O maar!........benna!@# %$&*()!!!!! Aa baaju thee marvanu hatu (errr……you should have hit it from this side)
“Where are the cheerleaders?”
“May we watch India-Bangladesh, Asia cup match?”
“Ricardo Izecson dos Santo Leite-Aa bhai nu naam kaka chey te haaru chey (good he is called kaka)
‘Jabulani’- koi Sindhi bhai ae ball banvyo chey? (Has some Sindhi brother manufactured it?)-
“Farigayo, farigayo aakho farigayo” (the ball has fully turned around)
“Brazil was the only country to have played in every world cup final till now”
“Vuvuzelas have been banned in the Wimbledon”
“Brazil nu crowd bau fine chey, nai?”(Brazilian crowd is very good, no?)
“Aa Paul punter laagey che” (Paul looks like a better)
“Don’t forget, official mascot was Zakumi-the green and yellow leapord.”
“Ronaldo is sooooooo cute!”
“My favourite part is when they exchange tees at the end.”
“So, they have never had cheerleaders?”
“Gonzalo Higuain ae tron marya” (hat trick)
“You think Dhoni’s boys must have beat Bangladesh?”
“Aa Denmark no Daniel Agger patli badlu niklo! (Has changed sides)
“Su mast disco jevo national anthem chey! (Their national anthem sounds like disco music.)
“Bet that Joachim Loew lost his baggage.”
“Paul is an octopus vulgaris.”
“Klose patigayo, red card maligayo.”(Klose is finished, has been given a red card)
“I was supposed to travel to South Africa but I don’t want to miss the Asia cup finals.”
“You think they might think about having cheerleaders in the future, if everybody insists?”
“Vuvuzelas above 100 decibels have a Saudi fatwa against them and are banned in the UAE.”
“We should hire Paul to predict Indo-Pak matches.”
“Bhaag, jaldi bhaaaaag “(run, run fast)!
“!@%$#^&&%&*()_+&&^%$$!!!!!!(BEEP BEEP BEEP BEEP BEEP)
“England’s football team is as over rated as Indian cricket team.”
“Soneri boot koney makshey?”(Who will get the golden boot?)
“Maximum goals were saved by the crossbar this year.”
“Sigh! Good bye Villa”
“How I wish Paraguay had won, at least there would have been one cheerleader!”
As the FIFA fervor has now bid us adieu and the war of words between overdressed saas-bahu serials will return to family drawing rooms, it will sadly be time for some predictable monotonous drama once again.
Surtis who love to comment while watching stuff whether it’s the television screen or the silverscreen, will be silenced by the ‘dukhi atmas’ of the idiot box who always seem to be in doldrums.
Here are some salient features of FIFA 2010, as pointed out by Surtis around Tapi town, in random order-
“Vuvu jhela”
“Watte ae sott”
“First time any host country has been eliminated in the first round.”
“Aa who karey chey? (What are you doing?)”
“Oh pelaa Nicholas Anelka ne suspense kari nakhyo!”(The said player was suspended)
“I love David Beckham; hope they show more of him.”
“Maar, maar o jaldi maaaaaaar!”(Hit, hit o hit it quickly!)
“Vuvuzelas are horny trumpets”
“This is not a gentleman’s game.”
“Aa Drogba ni hairstyle haari chey, holvij na padey! (Drogba’s hairstyle is cool, needs no combing)
“O maar!........benna!@# %$&*()!!!!! Aa baaju thee marvanu hatu (errr……you should have hit it from this side)
“Where are the cheerleaders?”
“May we watch India-Bangladesh, Asia cup match?”
“Ricardo Izecson dos Santo Leite-Aa bhai nu naam kaka chey te haaru chey (good he is called kaka)
‘Jabulani’- koi Sindhi bhai ae ball banvyo chey? (Has some Sindhi brother manufactured it?)-
“Farigayo, farigayo aakho farigayo” (the ball has fully turned around)
“Brazil was the only country to have played in every world cup final till now”
“Vuvuzelas have been banned in the Wimbledon”
“Brazil nu crowd bau fine chey, nai?”(Brazilian crowd is very good, no?)
“Aa Paul punter laagey che” (Paul looks like a better)
“Don’t forget, official mascot was Zakumi-the green and yellow leapord.”
“Ronaldo is sooooooo cute!”
“My favourite part is when they exchange tees at the end.”
“So, they have never had cheerleaders?”
“Gonzalo Higuain ae tron marya” (hat trick)
“You think Dhoni’s boys must have beat Bangladesh?”
“Aa Denmark no Daniel Agger patli badlu niklo! (Has changed sides)
“Su mast disco jevo national anthem chey! (Their national anthem sounds like disco music.)
“Bet that Joachim Loew lost his baggage.”
“Paul is an octopus vulgaris.”
“Klose patigayo, red card maligayo.”(Klose is finished, has been given a red card)
“I was supposed to travel to South Africa but I don’t want to miss the Asia cup finals.”
“You think they might think about having cheerleaders in the future, if everybody insists?”
“Vuvuzelas above 100 decibels have a Saudi fatwa against them and are banned in the UAE.”
“We should hire Paul to predict Indo-Pak matches.”
“Bhaag, jaldi bhaaaaag “(run, run fast)!
“!@%$#^&&%&*()_+&&^%$$!!!!!!(BEEP BEEP BEEP BEEP BEEP)
“England’s football team is as over rated as Indian cricket team.”
“Soneri boot koney makshey?”(Who will get the golden boot?)
“Maximum goals were saved by the crossbar this year.”
“Sigh! Good bye Villa”
“How I wish Paraguay had won, at least there would have been one cheerleader!”
Thursday, July 8, 2010
OCTOPUS ORACLES –Why Paul should pick India.
Now that Paul’s pappu has been passed, following Joachim Loew’s labour lost, Germany for certain would want nothing to have to do with its prized celebrity, once a soothsayer, now a tentacled terror.
With his prediction for a Spain win itself, this prophet’s fate was sealed. In a catch 22 situation, he was all set to be fried, had his choice of clam been proven wrong.
Had they emerged winners, maybe the German’s would have spared him out of joy, maybe not. Fact remains though, that it’s ‘suddenly Paul’ season.
While my animal lover friend from Bangalore sent a text to join the ‘save Paul and adopt him as a pet ‘campaign, I hear animal rights activists want to know if Paul is getting his dues along with all the undue media attention. They also want to know who will be handling the international star’s Face book and Twitter accounts, lest his feelings are hurt.
Unlike the Euro 2008, where a partial Paul had wrongly predicted Germany to win against the same opponent -Spain, but the latter had conceded a win, co incidentally by the same stats-1-0; Paul’s predictions have scored a straight 6 on 6 this FIFA 2010 season.
Needless to say, with a 100% record like that, this octopus‘s face value is far more than that of Joachim’s unwashed Blue tee, which, as we all know is sure to raise a stink now.
With no real particular football stars living upto their image as spectacular sportsmen this world cup, seems like this eight legged invertebrate might just end up laughing all the way to the tank, in his bubbly spirit.
Last heard, Gujarat’s great gambler-Gaman Aekko (alias aflatoon’s) call was intercepted while he was having a quick word with Mumbai’s bookie Galabhai Shana. They were in a heated discussion regarding when they should put up an on line bid for Paul the player.
Word in the ‘shhh circle’ is that talks are on between our top international khiladi (no relation to Lalit Modi, mind you) and Germany to lower boxes that contain a flag of India and Germany each with some fine food fare in Paul’s think tank and watch the one that Paul picks.
In a country where yagnas are held for a cricket match win, parrot card readers predict fall of governments, and multi coloured stones enhance star value, Paul seems to be on the hot list of all punters.
The crawly psychic can choose our motherland and live the life of a prince, to be pampered for life. We might rename him Sant shri Pappu baba, have a temple in his name and even get him a missus on the side-an ‘octopussy ‘, so to say, a la Bond .( Paul was born a British)
Or, he could choose his fatherland and end up as the ultimate German gourmet meal. Just like the fate of the Germans in FIFA this year, either which way, the choice is his.
So, what say Paul? Are you game?
Now that Paul’s pappu has been passed, following Joachim Loew’s labour lost, Germany for certain would want nothing to have to do with its prized celebrity, once a soothsayer, now a tentacled terror.
With his prediction for a Spain win itself, this prophet’s fate was sealed. In a catch 22 situation, he was all set to be fried, had his choice of clam been proven wrong.
Had they emerged winners, maybe the German’s would have spared him out of joy, maybe not. Fact remains though, that it’s ‘suddenly Paul’ season.
While my animal lover friend from Bangalore sent a text to join the ‘save Paul and adopt him as a pet ‘campaign, I hear animal rights activists want to know if Paul is getting his dues along with all the undue media attention. They also want to know who will be handling the international star’s Face book and Twitter accounts, lest his feelings are hurt.
Unlike the Euro 2008, where a partial Paul had wrongly predicted Germany to win against the same opponent -Spain, but the latter had conceded a win, co incidentally by the same stats-1-0; Paul’s predictions have scored a straight 6 on 6 this FIFA 2010 season.
Needless to say, with a 100% record like that, this octopus‘s face value is far more than that of Joachim’s unwashed Blue tee, which, as we all know is sure to raise a stink now.
With no real particular football stars living upto their image as spectacular sportsmen this world cup, seems like this eight legged invertebrate might just end up laughing all the way to the tank, in his bubbly spirit.
Last heard, Gujarat’s great gambler-Gaman Aekko (alias aflatoon’s) call was intercepted while he was having a quick word with Mumbai’s bookie Galabhai Shana. They were in a heated discussion regarding when they should put up an on line bid for Paul the player.
Word in the ‘shhh circle’ is that talks are on between our top international khiladi (no relation to Lalit Modi, mind you) and Germany to lower boxes that contain a flag of India and Germany each with some fine food fare in Paul’s think tank and watch the one that Paul picks.
In a country where yagnas are held for a cricket match win, parrot card readers predict fall of governments, and multi coloured stones enhance star value, Paul seems to be on the hot list of all punters.
The crawly psychic can choose our motherland and live the life of a prince, to be pampered for life. We might rename him Sant shri Pappu baba, have a temple in his name and even get him a missus on the side-an ‘octopussy ‘, so to say, a la Bond .( Paul was born a British)
Or, he could choose his fatherland and end up as the ultimate German gourmet meal. Just like the fate of the Germans in FIFA this year, either which way, the choice is his.
So, what say Paul? Are you game?
Sunday, June 27, 2010
ROMANCING THE RAIN
Of all the seasons that fall over Tapi town, the monsoon is by far the one that makes it most beautiful. If the skilled Sanskrit poet-Kalidasa’s cloud messenger-Meghdoot were to fly over Surat, in its fluffy state, its eye would meet many a pretty sight-
Kalidasa wrote-‘The Ashoka tree with sweetly dancing lines, the favourite Bakul tree, are near the bower of Amaranth-engirdled Jasmine vines; Like me they wait to feel the winning power, of her persuasion ere they blossom into flower.’
As Surat’s ancient architecture from Dutch to English to Mughal stands freshly awashed; most roads are carpeted with fresh blossoms from blazing Gulmohars, beaming Amaltas and in case you are on the right side of the road, pretty Parijats.
In spite of its urbanization, there still lie many quaint streets in Surat where one could enjoy a walk while it drizzles; like the by lane in Sarjan society which overlooks the garden is one closest to nature, like the main road by Panas agricultural farm where two wheelers now zip zap zoom has the most beautiful road sheltered by many a tree, like the green tunnel formed by a foliage of branches that entwine overhead outside the Umra police station.
The sweet, damp full bodied fragrance of mother earth will tempt bi-cyclists to bring out their wheels and race towards where land meets the Arabian sea, for the more adventurous, the serpentine Palsana route will serve the purpose for racing the rain.
Children who have now grown out of paper boat days will splash out into a wet and wild football or volleyball bout .As an audience of lasses below bright coloured umbrellas cheer on with their effervescent and unabashed Surti charm.
Kitly kings will be concocting up misty mint flavored tea from textile market’s famous foamy delight-‘Tim tim ‘as onerous laborers run around with rainbow coloured goods to good old Ghodod road’s cutting chai which will help wash down local goodies.
Foodies by nature, Surtis will be seen at all monsoon hotspots around town, relishing hot steamed khichu drizzled with oil and decorated with a generous sprinkle sesame seeds ,chutney lined tomato bhajiyas freshly fried by the ancient anchor at Dumas and pepper laced Sarasiya khajas from Ambaji road. As ash flies, floating out with the aroma of freshly roasted corn on the cob by road side kiosks, run by robust women from villages like Vesu, Bhimpore in bright coloured clothing, fanning the charcoal fire from below plastic hoods that do little to keep them from getting drenched by the downpour.
One could go out and enjoy the weather, view it from the various bridges that connect us to the blue horizon yonder, where palms swish and swoon to the tunes of the monsoon slate.
Just in case you would rather stay dry within the comfort of your home, curl up with a cup of hot cocoa and a great book like ‘Chasing the monsoon ‘by Alexander Frater.Or, better still, soak yourself in the rich text of ‘Meghduta’by Kalidasa what better weather than this to enjoy one of the most romantic poetry ever written -
‘Where from the Moonstones hung in nets of thread, great drops of water trickle in the night. When the Moon shines clear and thou, O cloud art fled to ease the languorous of the women’s plight who lie relaxed and tired in love’s embrace tight.’
Of all the seasons that fall over Tapi town, the monsoon is by far the one that makes it most beautiful. If the skilled Sanskrit poet-Kalidasa’s cloud messenger-Meghdoot were to fly over Surat, in its fluffy state, its eye would meet many a pretty sight-
Kalidasa wrote-‘The Ashoka tree with sweetly dancing lines, the favourite Bakul tree, are near the bower of Amaranth-engirdled Jasmine vines; Like me they wait to feel the winning power, of her persuasion ere they blossom into flower.’
As Surat’s ancient architecture from Dutch to English to Mughal stands freshly awashed; most roads are carpeted with fresh blossoms from blazing Gulmohars, beaming Amaltas and in case you are on the right side of the road, pretty Parijats.
In spite of its urbanization, there still lie many quaint streets in Surat where one could enjoy a walk while it drizzles; like the by lane in Sarjan society which overlooks the garden is one closest to nature, like the main road by Panas agricultural farm where two wheelers now zip zap zoom has the most beautiful road sheltered by many a tree, like the green tunnel formed by a foliage of branches that entwine overhead outside the Umra police station.
The sweet, damp full bodied fragrance of mother earth will tempt bi-cyclists to bring out their wheels and race towards where land meets the Arabian sea, for the more adventurous, the serpentine Palsana route will serve the purpose for racing the rain.
Children who have now grown out of paper boat days will splash out into a wet and wild football or volleyball bout .As an audience of lasses below bright coloured umbrellas cheer on with their effervescent and unabashed Surti charm.
Kitly kings will be concocting up misty mint flavored tea from textile market’s famous foamy delight-‘Tim tim ‘as onerous laborers run around with rainbow coloured goods to good old Ghodod road’s cutting chai which will help wash down local goodies.
Foodies by nature, Surtis will be seen at all monsoon hotspots around town, relishing hot steamed khichu drizzled with oil and decorated with a generous sprinkle sesame seeds ,chutney lined tomato bhajiyas freshly fried by the ancient anchor at Dumas and pepper laced Sarasiya khajas from Ambaji road. As ash flies, floating out with the aroma of freshly roasted corn on the cob by road side kiosks, run by robust women from villages like Vesu, Bhimpore in bright coloured clothing, fanning the charcoal fire from below plastic hoods that do little to keep them from getting drenched by the downpour.
One could go out and enjoy the weather, view it from the various bridges that connect us to the blue horizon yonder, where palms swish and swoon to the tunes of the monsoon slate.
Just in case you would rather stay dry within the comfort of your home, curl up with a cup of hot cocoa and a great book like ‘Chasing the monsoon ‘by Alexander Frater.Or, better still, soak yourself in the rich text of ‘Meghduta’by Kalidasa what better weather than this to enjoy one of the most romantic poetry ever written -
‘Where from the Moonstones hung in nets of thread, great drops of water trickle in the night. When the Moon shines clear and thou, O cloud art fled to ease the languorous of the women’s plight who lie relaxed and tired in love’s embrace tight.’
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
TAPI TOWN ON A TICKER?
Suryaputri Tapi-the Sun God’s daughter, originates as a pure ,bubbly spring ,full of life in the dense tribal district of Betul, in Madhya Pradesh from a place called Multai.Its name originates from the Sanskrit name Multapi.
While it is the life line of our town and the pride of the city’s rich glorious past, present day sees it contaminated with worst ever effluent industrial waste, sewage drains that flush out in it, algae and river bed vegetation which act as natural polluters and other harmful organisms dumped in by humans and animals.
Our civic body, the SMC, was amongst the first in the country to acquire standards to process and distribute quality water in required quantity on time and implemented the ISO 9001-2000 certificate to improve quality of potable water way back in 2004. Many an anti pollution drives and campaigns have been carried out to try and keep our river clean; sometimes after being alarmed over high levels of pollution or on other occasions, due the discovery of strange red organisms in the water treatment plant at Varachha water works.
The on going, month long Tapi Shudhhi karan campaign is by far the most aggressive and well attended ‘clean our river waters’ drive that we have experienced. In addition to correcting the damage done by the ‘khadis ‘that pour in the polluting factors, well meaning denizens and the civic body have joined hands to make sure that the Tapi stays protected from humans and animals that pollute its ovaras and ghats,with plastic, waste. The campaign will end on 27 June.And, in the rare case that we responsibly carry on the good work; things might just be back to square one or even worst, by this time next year.
Along with being the brightest jewel in the industrial capital of the country, it comes with little surprise that our city has also qualified as being one of the highest polluted. As deadly messages in the form of dead fish have often washed ashore, littering our beaches, dying cattle have had meek protesters and sniffing the gaseous air beyond Piplod as the evening sets in has become a way of normal life for us.
With over 400 textile processing units and more than 600 odd chemical factories that fume, it is little wonder that the presence of Carbon Dioxide in the air is more than 100 microgram per cubic meter than the permissible presence of below 80 micrograms.Yes, we took a giant step with converting our means of public transportation on road into CNG dependant vehicles but our air has worst enemies. As does our soil that has been found to be heavily contaminated with high levels of metals and toxic wastes.
The Gujarat Pollution Control Board has served a general improvement notice this year to industrial agencies. Some of its rules state that ‘All sources of water consumption have to be informed to the GPCB,Effluent discharge like ETP,LETP,FETP etc shall be allowed only through flow meter indicating correct quantity being discharged, any increased generation exceeding CTE(NOC0should be reported immediately, effluents are to be discharged only from authorized points ,only authorized fuel is to be used and any disposal of waste via pipeline connections,leakages,spillage,by pass,burying,underground or outside discharge is illegal.
The notice also states that while law abiding units can enjoy the rights of business and good infrastructural facilities provided by state government, wrong doers are warned that any illegal activities will be punished with ‘dire consequences’-the parody of the situation is, the wrong doers are punishing us already, with ‘dire consequences’.
As the mudslinging and finger pointing for the responsibility of Bhopal-the worlds worst industrial disaster reaches its zenith, lets learn from it and leave a better future for our children to live in ,lest we be known as the Andersons of our times.
Suryaputri Tapi-the Sun God’s daughter, originates as a pure ,bubbly spring ,full of life in the dense tribal district of Betul, in Madhya Pradesh from a place called Multai.Its name originates from the Sanskrit name Multapi.
While it is the life line of our town and the pride of the city’s rich glorious past, present day sees it contaminated with worst ever effluent industrial waste, sewage drains that flush out in it, algae and river bed vegetation which act as natural polluters and other harmful organisms dumped in by humans and animals.
Our civic body, the SMC, was amongst the first in the country to acquire standards to process and distribute quality water in required quantity on time and implemented the ISO 9001-2000 certificate to improve quality of potable water way back in 2004. Many an anti pollution drives and campaigns have been carried out to try and keep our river clean; sometimes after being alarmed over high levels of pollution or on other occasions, due the discovery of strange red organisms in the water treatment plant at Varachha water works.
The on going, month long Tapi Shudhhi karan campaign is by far the most aggressive and well attended ‘clean our river waters’ drive that we have experienced. In addition to correcting the damage done by the ‘khadis ‘that pour in the polluting factors, well meaning denizens and the civic body have joined hands to make sure that the Tapi stays protected from humans and animals that pollute its ovaras and ghats,with plastic, waste. The campaign will end on 27 June.And, in the rare case that we responsibly carry on the good work; things might just be back to square one or even worst, by this time next year.
Along with being the brightest jewel in the industrial capital of the country, it comes with little surprise that our city has also qualified as being one of the highest polluted. As deadly messages in the form of dead fish have often washed ashore, littering our beaches, dying cattle have had meek protesters and sniffing the gaseous air beyond Piplod as the evening sets in has become a way of normal life for us.
With over 400 textile processing units and more than 600 odd chemical factories that fume, it is little wonder that the presence of Carbon Dioxide in the air is more than 100 microgram per cubic meter than the permissible presence of below 80 micrograms.Yes, we took a giant step with converting our means of public transportation on road into CNG dependant vehicles but our air has worst enemies. As does our soil that has been found to be heavily contaminated with high levels of metals and toxic wastes.
The Gujarat Pollution Control Board has served a general improvement notice this year to industrial agencies. Some of its rules state that ‘All sources of water consumption have to be informed to the GPCB,Effluent discharge like ETP,LETP,FETP etc shall be allowed only through flow meter indicating correct quantity being discharged, any increased generation exceeding CTE(NOC0should be reported immediately, effluents are to be discharged only from authorized points ,only authorized fuel is to be used and any disposal of waste via pipeline connections,leakages,spillage,by pass,burying,underground or outside discharge is illegal.
The notice also states that while law abiding units can enjoy the rights of business and good infrastructural facilities provided by state government, wrong doers are warned that any illegal activities will be punished with ‘dire consequences’-the parody of the situation is, the wrong doers are punishing us already, with ‘dire consequences’.
As the mudslinging and finger pointing for the responsibility of Bhopal-the worlds worst industrial disaster reaches its zenith, lets learn from it and leave a better future for our children to live in ,lest we be known as the Andersons of our times.
SUMMER TEMPEST
They say when you have nothing else to write about, write about the weather, so, when we were under the Phet threat, this column was poised to read otherwise.
Thankfully, hurricanes have a mind of their own and are vagabond travelers with no particular route or destination in mind hence our shores were spared.
Despite the wanton change of weather plans however, mini hurricanes hit Surtis due to different individuals and issues that gave reason to Tapi towners to tattle. Hungary’s hunger and Hatoyama’s sayonara did not make it to the top list .the ones which did were-
Javier jalapeño Spanish writer Javier Moro may lack knowledge on how to drape a sari; but Surti lalas are on a desperate lookout for him .They want to request exclusive rights of patent to recreate his ‘Red Sari’. Lalas who have no clue about the writer’s past books like “Five past midnight in Bhopal’ on India’s worst apocalypse or ‘The Jaipur foot’-a man’s ability to overcome tragedy ,think that Surti versions of Moro’s red sari might just be the next big hit design after ‘Ghajini’. Meanwhile a representative of the hand that rules the country has served a notice to Javier who is protesting ‘tujhko mirchi lagi toh mein kyaa karu?’
Tambu mein gabhrahat An architectural wonder, the air-conditioned, gigantic, pillar less dome at Surat International Exhibition and Convention Centre (SIECC) was built with the purpose of providing ‘international standard facilities ‘for building better business and trade relations. But, Surat’s crème de la crème have been using it as the ‘in’ wedding venue of the season. Surat’s new, wow wedding vows venue observed a ‘vavajhodu’ (Surti for hurricane) when over a lakh wedding guests turned up to bless a parliamentarian’s blessed daughter. All roads led to Sarsana as people wanted to be in the ‘been there done that’ list.
Deedar ae Drogba While ‘it ‘couples in Surat are set to sail shores and attend Football 2010 worldcup, Ivory Coast’s ace foot is nursing an injured elbow.In a warm up match against Japan that might now cost host country South Africa a precious blow, ace striker Didier Drogba has been declared injured and unfit for FIFA 2010.Although over 20 million fans worldwide are crestfallen, Surtis are in top spirits since they will be sporting colourful tees representing all countries and would rather sight fancy film stars from Hollywood than ferocious footballers .
Limca book of records In a record event that has our extremely alert police in a puzzle, a 2 litre, Surti Limca bottle is on its way to become part of, well ‘Limca book of records’! The record breaking bottle filled with Vodka, discovered by a surprise raid squad, mysteriously found its way into the Surat sub jail, near ward number 4, which is present home to a few high profile law breakers. Of course, now that the unique bottle has been sent to the efficient forensic science department ‘results may vary ‘and we may not have a winner on our hands.Jalsa loving Surtis are, however celebrating with Hic!hic!hurrah in dry state’s rare, amazing discovery.
Thus, while the country dealt with the IPL- ‘I appeal ,yell ‘ hurricane and the state had ‘Charcha Nehru ‘to deal with, Surtis were busy with their own set of summer tempests.
Tapi town tattle Nuts over Mr.Natwarlal.
They say when you have nothing else to write about, write about the weather, so, when we were under the Phet threat, this column was poised to read otherwise.
Thankfully, hurricanes have a mind of their own and are vagabond travelers with no particular route or destination in mind hence our shores were spared.
Despite the wanton change of weather plans however, mini hurricanes hit Surtis due to different individuals and issues that gave reason to Tapi towners to tattle. Hungary’s hunger and Hatoyama’s sayonara did not make it to the top list .the ones which did were-
Javier jalapeño Spanish writer Javier Moro may lack knowledge on how to drape a sari; but Surti lalas are on a desperate lookout for him .They want to request exclusive rights of patent to recreate his ‘Red Sari’. Lalas who have no clue about the writer’s past books like “Five past midnight in Bhopal’ on India’s worst apocalypse or ‘The Jaipur foot’-a man’s ability to overcome tragedy ,think that Surti versions of Moro’s red sari might just be the next big hit design after ‘Ghajini’. Meanwhile a representative of the hand that rules the country has served a notice to Javier who is protesting ‘tujhko mirchi lagi toh mein kyaa karu?’
Tambu mein gabhrahat An architectural wonder, the air-conditioned, gigantic, pillar less dome at Surat International Exhibition and Convention Centre (SIECC) was built with the purpose of providing ‘international standard facilities ‘for building better business and trade relations. But, Surat’s crème de la crème have been using it as the ‘in’ wedding venue of the season. Surat’s new, wow wedding vows venue observed a ‘vavajhodu’ (Surti for hurricane) when over a lakh wedding guests turned up to bless a parliamentarian’s blessed daughter. All roads led to Sarsana as people wanted to be in the ‘been there done that’ list.
Deedar ae Drogba While ‘it ‘couples in Surat are set to sail shores and attend Football 2010 worldcup, Ivory Coast’s ace foot is nursing an injured elbow.In a warm up match against Japan that might now cost host country South Africa a precious blow, ace striker Didier Drogba has been declared injured and unfit for FIFA 2010.Although over 20 million fans worldwide are crestfallen, Surtis are in top spirits since they will be sporting colourful tees representing all countries and would rather sight fancy film stars from Hollywood than ferocious footballers .
Limca book of records In a record event that has our extremely alert police in a puzzle, a 2 litre, Surti Limca bottle is on its way to become part of, well ‘Limca book of records’! The record breaking bottle filled with Vodka, discovered by a surprise raid squad, mysteriously found its way into the Surat sub jail, near ward number 4, which is present home to a few high profile law breakers. Of course, now that the unique bottle has been sent to the efficient forensic science department ‘results may vary ‘and we may not have a winner on our hands.Jalsa loving Surtis are, however celebrating with Hic!hic!hurrah in dry state’s rare, amazing discovery.
Thus, while the country dealt with the IPL- ‘I appeal ,yell ‘ hurricane and the state had ‘Charcha Nehru ‘to deal with, Surtis were busy with their own set of summer tempests.
Tapi town tattle Nuts over Mr.Natwarlal.
NOT JUST KIDS’STUFF-The big business of little people.
Suri Cruise turned all of four years in age this summer, yet Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes are reportedly spending around 4 million dollars on her wardrobe annually! Tom had earlier stated Suri chooses her own clothes and now, even advises him on the same.
Along with a $800 Ferragamo purse neatly resting on her tiny shoulder, this mini style icon already has a fashion blog in her name, with over 5 lakh visitors and counting. Every single time the little fashionista steps out with her celebrity parents, bloggers vote –“thumbs up for the Burberry plaid dress, thumbs down for her high heels”etc.
“Keeping up with the Cruises” has become the motto of more and more Gen Xers around the world. According to online polls, fashion enthusiasts are happily kitting out for their kid’s gear, amounts that would resemble your monthly car installment or family holiday budget.
India too, has caught up with the mini fashion frenzy and Gujarat is no exception .Young, upwardly mobile parents who are brand conscious themselves are making sure they dress their dear ones in designer tags and shop for the same whenever they travel. Gujarats’yummy mummies love to dress their young guns as’ mini me s’.”When we mommies are wearing strappy branded labels, why should it be any less when it comes to kidswear?” argues Shhalu Kapadia, whose daughters aged 8 and 5 have a wardrobe as big as their moms.” I shop from Delhi for their Indian gear and my husband who travels abroad often, purchases their western out fits.
Kids couture, that was an ‘unorganized sector’ till now, has started looking up like never before. Kidology that launched this year, in Delhi is already branching out to the west due to demands. It houses designer threads in Indian and western wear to cater to tiny vouguettes and little boys aged 0 to 7. The country’s leading labels like Ritu Kumar’s ethnic fusion blend, Malini Ramani‘s tribal /glam diva look, Gaurav Gupta ‘s funky styles, Gauri and Nainika’s princess collection are hot sellers .Karina Rajpal, its director points out that,” While celebrity kids ’fashion influences a certain sector of the market, there are plenty of aesthetically minded parents who have very distinct taste, who appreciate good quality design and enjoy watching their offspring’s wearing the same.”
The weather in Ahmedabad calls for comfortable fabric, as does kid’s fashion. I use a lot of natural fabric, organic cotton, that has an extra feel of softness to the skin”, says Priti Mehta, who runs’ Bows and Buttons’ for pretty young things, at Ellis bridge.” Fit to size is an important aspect; my youngest client is 6 months old. We physically try out samples on children to make sure that the fit is perfect and provide alterations. Matching accessories like hairclips and purses are custom made to order.”
”Prices are not an issue, if the kids like something, parents happily pay for it, children have so many birthdays and functions to attend,” says Nishhka Lulla whose youngest client is one year old.” the most difficult part is getting them to be stable during measurements. Even one year olds are very conscious about the length of their dresses and the colour that they want .It is great fun designing for children since there is a lot of freedom with colours and one can be innovative with fun styles.” Having launched her label Nisshk's Barbie collection last year with a ‘mommy and me’ ramp walk, she has regular clients in crème de la crème Gujaratis like Palak and Samir Sheth’s daughter Shonaya amongst others.
Tanisha Sonpal, an NRG settled in Hong Kong states, “I have regular requests from cousins back home to shop and send kid stuff for my nephews and nieces who reside in Rajkot and Baroda .Since here we have stores of Baby Dior,Gucii,Kenzo,Marc Jacobs etc in kiddy styles.”
Meanwhile, back in Ahmedabad and Surat, cash crunched parents are also shopping at low priced shops like Clothes Rack, Just brands, for their tiny tots to stay put in the brand wagon. Play at the park has never been so stylish, as Tommy Hilfiger rubs shoulders with Burberry’s at the see saw and swings.
“Its not just the tags, comfort is prime importance,” points out Pooja Patel ,” I make it point to pick up Baby Gap jeans and fine footwear for my kids, I also like the Indian block prints on cotton shirts for my son. My daughter’s wardrobe is more Victorian and feminine, country style frocks etc.Loud colours, too much embroidery are big no nos”.
‘I shop for sports gear for my kids all over the world they always put in a request for Manchester United stuff, since they are both soccer fans. “Says Parikshit Contractor.
A lot of people who can afford good clothes found it hard to find unique clothing for children before, this sector has a big future. A retailer in Surat is preparing paperwork to approach brand ‘Burberry’s’, who have launched their miniature versions of the key pieces from their Spring Summer catwalk Prorsum Collection in India.” They stock tee shirts priced Rs.2500 onwards for kids aged one month to 14 years, dresses for little damsels that range from Rs.9000 to 11, 00, denims for boys that range from 10,000 onwards along with sneakers and ballerinas that cost 10 grands per pair.I have been in this field for 20 years now, Surtis never mind paying that extra buck for unique stuff.”He winks.
Tejus Kapadia who often travels abroad due to his business, makes it a point to book a hotel that is close to boutiques that sell branded kiddy wear, to shop for his daughters Vieha ,8 and Nayssa , 5, in between his busy meetings,” My children do not need to be celebrity kids to dress in designer tags. For me, they are the celebrities.” He smiles.
Suri Cruise turned all of four years in age this summer, yet Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes are reportedly spending around 4 million dollars on her wardrobe annually! Tom had earlier stated Suri chooses her own clothes and now, even advises him on the same.
Along with a $800 Ferragamo purse neatly resting on her tiny shoulder, this mini style icon already has a fashion blog in her name, with over 5 lakh visitors and counting. Every single time the little fashionista steps out with her celebrity parents, bloggers vote –“thumbs up for the Burberry plaid dress, thumbs down for her high heels”etc.
“Keeping up with the Cruises” has become the motto of more and more Gen Xers around the world. According to online polls, fashion enthusiasts are happily kitting out for their kid’s gear, amounts that would resemble your monthly car installment or family holiday budget.
India too, has caught up with the mini fashion frenzy and Gujarat is no exception .Young, upwardly mobile parents who are brand conscious themselves are making sure they dress their dear ones in designer tags and shop for the same whenever they travel. Gujarats’yummy mummies love to dress their young guns as’ mini me s’.”When we mommies are wearing strappy branded labels, why should it be any less when it comes to kidswear?” argues Shhalu Kapadia, whose daughters aged 8 and 5 have a wardrobe as big as their moms.” I shop from Delhi for their Indian gear and my husband who travels abroad often, purchases their western out fits.
Kids couture, that was an ‘unorganized sector’ till now, has started looking up like never before. Kidology that launched this year, in Delhi is already branching out to the west due to demands. It houses designer threads in Indian and western wear to cater to tiny vouguettes and little boys aged 0 to 7. The country’s leading labels like Ritu Kumar’s ethnic fusion blend, Malini Ramani‘s tribal /glam diva look, Gaurav Gupta ‘s funky styles, Gauri and Nainika’s princess collection are hot sellers .Karina Rajpal, its director points out that,” While celebrity kids ’fashion influences a certain sector of the market, there are plenty of aesthetically minded parents who have very distinct taste, who appreciate good quality design and enjoy watching their offspring’s wearing the same.”
The weather in Ahmedabad calls for comfortable fabric, as does kid’s fashion. I use a lot of natural fabric, organic cotton, that has an extra feel of softness to the skin”, says Priti Mehta, who runs’ Bows and Buttons’ for pretty young things, at Ellis bridge.” Fit to size is an important aspect; my youngest client is 6 months old. We physically try out samples on children to make sure that the fit is perfect and provide alterations. Matching accessories like hairclips and purses are custom made to order.”
”Prices are not an issue, if the kids like something, parents happily pay for it, children have so many birthdays and functions to attend,” says Nishhka Lulla whose youngest client is one year old.” the most difficult part is getting them to be stable during measurements. Even one year olds are very conscious about the length of their dresses and the colour that they want .It is great fun designing for children since there is a lot of freedom with colours and one can be innovative with fun styles.” Having launched her label Nisshk's Barbie collection last year with a ‘mommy and me’ ramp walk, she has regular clients in crème de la crème Gujaratis like Palak and Samir Sheth’s daughter Shonaya amongst others.
Tanisha Sonpal, an NRG settled in Hong Kong states, “I have regular requests from cousins back home to shop and send kid stuff for my nephews and nieces who reside in Rajkot and Baroda .Since here we have stores of Baby Dior,Gucii,Kenzo,Marc Jacobs etc in kiddy styles.”
Meanwhile, back in Ahmedabad and Surat, cash crunched parents are also shopping at low priced shops like Clothes Rack, Just brands, for their tiny tots to stay put in the brand wagon. Play at the park has never been so stylish, as Tommy Hilfiger rubs shoulders with Burberry’s at the see saw and swings.
“Its not just the tags, comfort is prime importance,” points out Pooja Patel ,” I make it point to pick up Baby Gap jeans and fine footwear for my kids, I also like the Indian block prints on cotton shirts for my son. My daughter’s wardrobe is more Victorian and feminine, country style frocks etc.Loud colours, too much embroidery are big no nos”.
‘I shop for sports gear for my kids all over the world they always put in a request for Manchester United stuff, since they are both soccer fans. “Says Parikshit Contractor.
A lot of people who can afford good clothes found it hard to find unique clothing for children before, this sector has a big future. A retailer in Surat is preparing paperwork to approach brand ‘Burberry’s’, who have launched their miniature versions of the key pieces from their Spring Summer catwalk Prorsum Collection in India.” They stock tee shirts priced Rs.2500 onwards for kids aged one month to 14 years, dresses for little damsels that range from Rs.9000 to 11, 00, denims for boys that range from 10,000 onwards along with sneakers and ballerinas that cost 10 grands per pair.I have been in this field for 20 years now, Surtis never mind paying that extra buck for unique stuff.”He winks.
Tejus Kapadia who often travels abroad due to his business, makes it a point to book a hotel that is close to boutiques that sell branded kiddy wear, to shop for his daughters Vieha ,8 and Nayssa , 5, in between his busy meetings,” My children do not need to be celebrity kids to dress in designer tags. For me, they are the celebrities.” He smiles.
Friday, May 28, 2010
SWISH SET’S NEW SKIN SINS
Popeye, Angelina Jolie, Winston Churchill and Rakhi Sawant might never end up in the same subset; but fact remains that they are all linked with ink. Tattoos play a vital part in the projection of their personalities.
Related more to punk funk, till recent years, permenant tattoos have suddenly emerged as the new style statement on the fashion circuit universally and Gujarat’s swish set is going all out to ink their attitude.
Neck napes, wrists, shoulders, lower backs, biceps are expressing personal preferences. Like Bob Dylan’s song,’ times they are a changing’, tattoo trends too are no more just a cult custom but, a widely accepted attitude, even in the middle aged groups. It’s not just the twenty somethings’ who are going in for the skin sin.” Most of my clients are professionals, in their mid thirties or more,’ smiles tattoo artist Jagruti Parmar .In the field for more than 10 years now, this boho chic promoter is known as Gujarat’s Kat Von D when it comes to tattoos.
Parmar’s studio ‘La Nina tattoos’ at Vastrapur Ahmedabad, is like a mini museum of tattoo history, the walls depict pictures from ancient Japanese body art to Jolie’s arm candy (tattoos, not Brad Pitt, silly).” 3-d and glow in the dark tattoos are very popular with the elder age group. A lot of people are getting various gods depicted on skin and since Indian gods wear a lot of ornaments, the effect in radium coloured tattoos comes out amazing. Tattoos are the only jewels that go with you to your grave. I just did a Cleopatra type replica on a client’s eye, it was a tricky task”
The Raamnamis of Chattisgarh no more monopolize the mantra sutra. Elderly Gujaratis are getting Gayatri Mantras, Hanuman Chalisas and Maha Mrityunjay jaaps permanently penned on their backs and shoulders for instant nirvana. Kavita Dave, who runs D N Tattoos at Jodhpur Satellite remarks,’ we have clients who are upto 65 years of age as well. Many come in from Saurashtra, Kutch, Baroda and some go for fancier versions of their Kul Devta.” Ahmedabad being central for Gujarat,” Even foreigners and NRI’s prefer getting their religious tattoos done here because as Indians, we are able to give genuine divine expressions for the ever popular Ganeshas and Shivji idols and innumerable options for the ‘om’symbol,” points out Parmar.
Tattoos are not new to Gujarat. The Rabari tribes of Kutch have a trend of body art called ‘chhundanas’.Many centuries old, it consists of geometrical designs and dots that is often visible in their embroidery and home décor rangoli motifs as well. Meant to adorn the skin, this definitely makes their women look sexier.
La Nina‘s tattoo artist has a client who got her boy friend’s name permanently tattooed in 7 secret places. “She adds one more every month and is married now.” Young girls commonly go in for dainty butterflies and fairies, but, the women are going in for more elaborate, serene Buddha images surrounded with exotic floral creepers and sensual snakes intertwined with dragon like creatures.” I have a phoenix on my back which signifies my character, am planning another for my ankle soon” says Sonali Desai, a young mother. ” Tattoos are the new fashion mantra for Surat’s suburbans”confirms Lavesh More, who has trained under famous tattoo artist Sameer Patange and shuttles into Tapi town every fortnight to upgrade Surat’s swish set with styles that are ‘in style ‘in Mumbai because,”Surtis always want something unique and different and are willing to pay for the fact that I never repeat the design again. I plan to permanently work out of Surat now due to the growing demand.”
Not bearing social stigma anymore, tattoos are openly flaunted with pride. It’s not just the fashionistas who are falling for the trend.” Many of my clients are doctors, they usually want one on their biceps or neck nape, they don’t mind if their patients notice it, others are patients of luecoderma or have surgery scars and tattoos help them cover the same” says Kavita.
Celebrity charisma has direct bearing on fans who risk the pain for visual pleasure. Just as Saif followed David Beckham, penning the name of the love of his life, “Alphabet tattoos are very common but also lose their charm as soon as girlfriends change. I have to play music in accordance to the mood and theme of my clients’ make ups and break ups.Ours being a dry state, there is no alcohol in take before the act unlike other towns.” giggles Jagruti.
Premal Zaveri, 44, has adopted Hrithik Roshan’s new star tattoo on his right wrist while his wife sports the same on her left wrist. ‘It gathers immediate attention at work, “smiles the textile trader,” but no one has dared ask yet. My wife is very fair skinned and also has a beautiful floral one on her back. The colours have come out wonderfully well.”
”I am planning to go shopping for more halter necks, “winks Sonal Patel., 37, from Rajkot, who has got a 3 d shadow effect tattoo done on her left shoulder that extends to the nape, “it feels sexy to get noticed for it. I am trying to get my husband go in for a Shivji one like Sanjay Dutt’s.”
While its style quotient for ladies, its all about symbols of power for the gentlemen.Al’s Tattoo studio in Bandra, Mumbai is run by four brothers .Al has done his masters in fine arts from M S University in Baroda. They cater to Bollywood stars and celebrities, back in Gujarat, Jagruti Parmar who has a TBTI certificate from New Jersey, dreams of having just one celebrity client,’I would like to make a Kohinoor for chief minister Narendra Modi, on any secret body part that he wishes to have one on.”
Box section-Tattoo trivia-
1. Tattoo comes from the Tahiti word ‘tautau’-meaning ‘to mark’
2. Numbing creams like ‘Xylocain’or ‘Prilox’ may cause temporary itchiness.
3.8 out of 10 patients bleed while getting a tattoo done.
4. Cases of improper precaution can lead to skin cancer, hepatitis or AIDS
5. Tattoos normally take upto 3 weeks to heal totally.
Popeye, Angelina Jolie, Winston Churchill and Rakhi Sawant might never end up in the same subset; but fact remains that they are all linked with ink. Tattoos play a vital part in the projection of their personalities.
Related more to punk funk, till recent years, permenant tattoos have suddenly emerged as the new style statement on the fashion circuit universally and Gujarat’s swish set is going all out to ink their attitude.
Neck napes, wrists, shoulders, lower backs, biceps are expressing personal preferences. Like Bob Dylan’s song,’ times they are a changing’, tattoo trends too are no more just a cult custom but, a widely accepted attitude, even in the middle aged groups. It’s not just the twenty somethings’ who are going in for the skin sin.” Most of my clients are professionals, in their mid thirties or more,’ smiles tattoo artist Jagruti Parmar .In the field for more than 10 years now, this boho chic promoter is known as Gujarat’s Kat Von D when it comes to tattoos.
Parmar’s studio ‘La Nina tattoos’ at Vastrapur Ahmedabad, is like a mini museum of tattoo history, the walls depict pictures from ancient Japanese body art to Jolie’s arm candy (tattoos, not Brad Pitt, silly).” 3-d and glow in the dark tattoos are very popular with the elder age group. A lot of people are getting various gods depicted on skin and since Indian gods wear a lot of ornaments, the effect in radium coloured tattoos comes out amazing. Tattoos are the only jewels that go with you to your grave. I just did a Cleopatra type replica on a client’s eye, it was a tricky task”
The Raamnamis of Chattisgarh no more monopolize the mantra sutra. Elderly Gujaratis are getting Gayatri Mantras, Hanuman Chalisas and Maha Mrityunjay jaaps permanently penned on their backs and shoulders for instant nirvana. Kavita Dave, who runs D N Tattoos at Jodhpur Satellite remarks,’ we have clients who are upto 65 years of age as well. Many come in from Saurashtra, Kutch, Baroda and some go for fancier versions of their Kul Devta.” Ahmedabad being central for Gujarat,” Even foreigners and NRI’s prefer getting their religious tattoos done here because as Indians, we are able to give genuine divine expressions for the ever popular Ganeshas and Shivji idols and innumerable options for the ‘om’symbol,” points out Parmar.
Tattoos are not new to Gujarat. The Rabari tribes of Kutch have a trend of body art called ‘chhundanas’.Many centuries old, it consists of geometrical designs and dots that is often visible in their embroidery and home décor rangoli motifs as well. Meant to adorn the skin, this definitely makes their women look sexier.
La Nina‘s tattoo artist has a client who got her boy friend’s name permanently tattooed in 7 secret places. “She adds one more every month and is married now.” Young girls commonly go in for dainty butterflies and fairies, but, the women are going in for more elaborate, serene Buddha images surrounded with exotic floral creepers and sensual snakes intertwined with dragon like creatures.” I have a phoenix on my back which signifies my character, am planning another for my ankle soon” says Sonali Desai, a young mother. ” Tattoos are the new fashion mantra for Surat’s suburbans”confirms Lavesh More, who has trained under famous tattoo artist Sameer Patange and shuttles into Tapi town every fortnight to upgrade Surat’s swish set with styles that are ‘in style ‘in Mumbai because,”Surtis always want something unique and different and are willing to pay for the fact that I never repeat the design again. I plan to permanently work out of Surat now due to the growing demand.”
Not bearing social stigma anymore, tattoos are openly flaunted with pride. It’s not just the fashionistas who are falling for the trend.” Many of my clients are doctors, they usually want one on their biceps or neck nape, they don’t mind if their patients notice it, others are patients of luecoderma or have surgery scars and tattoos help them cover the same” says Kavita.
Celebrity charisma has direct bearing on fans who risk the pain for visual pleasure. Just as Saif followed David Beckham, penning the name of the love of his life, “Alphabet tattoos are very common but also lose their charm as soon as girlfriends change. I have to play music in accordance to the mood and theme of my clients’ make ups and break ups.Ours being a dry state, there is no alcohol in take before the act unlike other towns.” giggles Jagruti.
Premal Zaveri, 44, has adopted Hrithik Roshan’s new star tattoo on his right wrist while his wife sports the same on her left wrist. ‘It gathers immediate attention at work, “smiles the textile trader,” but no one has dared ask yet. My wife is very fair skinned and also has a beautiful floral one on her back. The colours have come out wonderfully well.”
”I am planning to go shopping for more halter necks, “winks Sonal Patel., 37, from Rajkot, who has got a 3 d shadow effect tattoo done on her left shoulder that extends to the nape, “it feels sexy to get noticed for it. I am trying to get my husband go in for a Shivji one like Sanjay Dutt’s.”
While its style quotient for ladies, its all about symbols of power for the gentlemen.Al’s Tattoo studio in Bandra, Mumbai is run by four brothers .Al has done his masters in fine arts from M S University in Baroda. They cater to Bollywood stars and celebrities, back in Gujarat, Jagruti Parmar who has a TBTI certificate from New Jersey, dreams of having just one celebrity client,’I would like to make a Kohinoor for chief minister Narendra Modi, on any secret body part that he wishes to have one on.”
Box section-Tattoo trivia-
1. Tattoo comes from the Tahiti word ‘tautau’-meaning ‘to mark’
2. Numbing creams like ‘Xylocain’or ‘Prilox’ may cause temporary itchiness.
3.8 out of 10 patients bleed while getting a tattoo done.
4. Cases of improper precaution can lead to skin cancer, hepatitis or AIDS
5. Tattoos normally take upto 3 weeks to heal totally.
SHREKS AND THE CITY
America and the rest of the world is going gaga over the friendly monster Shrek, falling in love with the ugly ogre, who has a kind heart of gold.Shrek is derived from the German word Shreck which means fear and terror.
Reel life fairy tales hardly come true in real life. There are Shreks all around town and here is a girlie guide to recognize and handle the same-
Party Shreks-These are the ones with the shiny shirts and slinky hair who give dirty, hairy a different meaning (no, not Clint Eastwood, dear) and go,”Hey baby, want to go for a drive?” when the DJ is playing a sensitive, soulful number. They will keep smiling no matter what your facial expression portrays. You can get away with any rude reply, since this lot is certainly deaf and definitely not looking at your eyes while speaking, if you know what I mean. Be as mean as you can be.La belle dame sans merci.
Phone Shreks-Easily entertained, these are the ones who imagine there is a princess on the other end, especially so if they have accidentally dialed the wrong number, no matter if you actually are twice their age and thrice their size. All you need is a sweet voice and, you will have them at the first ‘Hello.’ They will be stupid enough to ask ‘who is this?’In spite of the fact that you just said, ‘wrong number.’ They will redial .Most likely lot to have a degree in nose wax moulding.Silence is the best answer for quick relief and save the number, for ‘no reply’ the next time.
Train/Plane Shreks-The over enthusiastic complete strangers, who smell like they just came out of Shrek swamp, who try to strike conversations out of the blue. It could be anything, the book you are reading, to where you are going; to what your i pod is playing. They will make sure they help you with heavy luggage whether or not you need their help, will be rude to the coolies /steward and, sugary sweet to the ticket checker air hostess, going,’ji saheb,yes ma’m’for no particular reason. They will also have a strong opinion on the Indian Railways, Airways, not that they do anything to make it any better. Ignore and avoid please.
Online/Office Shreks-The Gen next of the Ogre lot. Their vocabulary will consist of constant ‘lol’, ‘brb’ and they will type to you ‘wassup dudette?”.Their face book profile will be the display unit of how ‘cool’ they looked in the gym, at their reunion, at last New Years Eve etc.They will be passionate about football, basket ball and of course cricket. Since intellectual conversation will be too big a task to handle, for these ‘instant karmayogis’, you will be asked to take some kind of stupid online quiz so that they can know you better. Give no personal details, ever.
Pre marital Shreks-The handsome yet possessive insecure lot. They will want to know what you did from the time you woke up till you slept. They will want to decide what you wear, eat and whom you talk too. It’s not your fault; it’s just that they don’t believe in themselves. This kind normally turn into Post marital Shreks with lousy eating habits, a foul mouth , along with unending complaints .Run as fast and as far as you can.Because,only fairytales have happily ever after endings.
America and the rest of the world is going gaga over the friendly monster Shrek, falling in love with the ugly ogre, who has a kind heart of gold.Shrek is derived from the German word Shreck which means fear and terror.
Reel life fairy tales hardly come true in real life. There are Shreks all around town and here is a girlie guide to recognize and handle the same-
Party Shreks-These are the ones with the shiny shirts and slinky hair who give dirty, hairy a different meaning (no, not Clint Eastwood, dear) and go,”Hey baby, want to go for a drive?” when the DJ is playing a sensitive, soulful number. They will keep smiling no matter what your facial expression portrays. You can get away with any rude reply, since this lot is certainly deaf and definitely not looking at your eyes while speaking, if you know what I mean. Be as mean as you can be.La belle dame sans merci.
Phone Shreks-Easily entertained, these are the ones who imagine there is a princess on the other end, especially so if they have accidentally dialed the wrong number, no matter if you actually are twice their age and thrice their size. All you need is a sweet voice and, you will have them at the first ‘Hello.’ They will be stupid enough to ask ‘who is this?’In spite of the fact that you just said, ‘wrong number.’ They will redial .Most likely lot to have a degree in nose wax moulding.Silence is the best answer for quick relief and save the number, for ‘no reply’ the next time.
Train/Plane Shreks-The over enthusiastic complete strangers, who smell like they just came out of Shrek swamp, who try to strike conversations out of the blue. It could be anything, the book you are reading, to where you are going; to what your i pod is playing. They will make sure they help you with heavy luggage whether or not you need their help, will be rude to the coolies /steward and, sugary sweet to the ticket checker air hostess, going,’ji saheb,yes ma’m’for no particular reason. They will also have a strong opinion on the Indian Railways, Airways, not that they do anything to make it any better. Ignore and avoid please.
Online/Office Shreks-The Gen next of the Ogre lot. Their vocabulary will consist of constant ‘lol’, ‘brb’ and they will type to you ‘wassup dudette?”.Their face book profile will be the display unit of how ‘cool’ they looked in the gym, at their reunion, at last New Years Eve etc.They will be passionate about football, basket ball and of course cricket. Since intellectual conversation will be too big a task to handle, for these ‘instant karmayogis’, you will be asked to take some kind of stupid online quiz so that they can know you better. Give no personal details, ever.
Pre marital Shreks-The handsome yet possessive insecure lot. They will want to know what you did from the time you woke up till you slept. They will want to decide what you wear, eat and whom you talk too. It’s not your fault; it’s just that they don’t believe in themselves. This kind normally turn into Post marital Shreks with lousy eating habits, a foul mouth , along with unending complaints .Run as fast and as far as you can.Because,only fairytales have happily ever after endings.
FASHIONISTA SUMMER FARE
I spent Saturday morning with my head in the freezer, dreaming about being nestled in the Himalayas, this time of the year, wishing that we had winters all around the year (not that they are particularly cold ,either).Finally after 5 minutes, temporary facial numbness made me see reason to face the heat (literally )and be sane.
Summer is here, bringing with it the dire need for all things ‘fresh’; hence, both stale food and fashion are big no no’s.
The gurus of the garment industry have stated that the colours for Spring Summer 2010 are –Tuscany, Oyester, Rose dust, Champagne, Aurora, Woodbine and Aquatic. There is no need to panic, in simple language; this just means grey, silvery grey, lilac, pink, lemon yellow, lime green and turquoise blue .You know how designers love to make it sound exotic! And, how on earth could they forget White with its quintessential charm?
Now that we have our colours in order, let’s get on with the must haves.
Flip flops-Cobblers’ best gift to heeled tired twosomes, these thongs for feet have taken an outdoorsy avatar making it the most preferred teen foot wear .Spruce up your pair of toesis with a little bling.Buy a basic pair in your favourite fluorescent colour and add a line of sheer ,tiny sequins or multicolored beads or teenie weenie snail shells.
Tank tops-Nothing makes a good pair of well fitted jeans look cooler than a tank top-the good old ganji like jersey.Salman bhai’s ganji look takes a beating when gals wear one with denims. Add glam to your spaghetti top, musclebag or tank with a colourful butterfly or dragonfly brooch near the collarbone.
Tattoos-Ever since Bollywood stars have started going for what Angelina Jolie wears on her arms (tattoos, not Brad Pitt, silly), Surtis have found the fashion trend painworthy.Suburbans are at it ,getting permanent signs,emblems,gods,serpents,dragons,flora and fauna painfully penned on their wrists,calves,ankles,shoulders and elsewhere. If you are above 18 and want to go in for one, get a temporary one and look at it for a month before going on for something that will stay on your skin for the rest of your life.
Skin -Scorched skin needs tender loving care. Avoid heavy creams which are loaded with chemicals no matter how soft they make your skin feel. Always buy a face cream with aqua as the main component. Better still; depend on good old rose water, cucumber juice, milk/buttermilk for instant relief. You could store it in a spritzer and refrigerate it, for gentle spraying on face whenever required.
Nails- Now available in Tapi town are nail colours that could put a rainbow to shame and what better weather than this to show off pretty nails. For youngsters, dabble in some do it yourself nail art by simply adding multicolored stud and locking them on with a clear nail varnish top coat. Also available now are art pens that you may use to make tiny hearts and smileys over nail paint. If you must use a new colour in a cheap product, make sure you protect your nail with a base coat of a known brand first.Ladies, kindly leave funky colours to the girlie age group please, lest you want to look like a member of the Adam’s family.
Hair-Braid, gel, and spike, do what you must to keep it out of harms way. Put it up in a pony tail with a pretty scrunchie or, plug it into a roll with a chopstick like accessory. If you must wear it loose, hold it up with a pair of oversized sunglasses.
Since you are all set now, step out and commit skin sin because nothing looks sexier than a natural tan.
I spent Saturday morning with my head in the freezer, dreaming about being nestled in the Himalayas, this time of the year, wishing that we had winters all around the year (not that they are particularly cold ,either).Finally after 5 minutes, temporary facial numbness made me see reason to face the heat (literally )and be sane.
Summer is here, bringing with it the dire need for all things ‘fresh’; hence, both stale food and fashion are big no no’s.
The gurus of the garment industry have stated that the colours for Spring Summer 2010 are –Tuscany, Oyester, Rose dust, Champagne, Aurora, Woodbine and Aquatic. There is no need to panic, in simple language; this just means grey, silvery grey, lilac, pink, lemon yellow, lime green and turquoise blue .You know how designers love to make it sound exotic! And, how on earth could they forget White with its quintessential charm?
Now that we have our colours in order, let’s get on with the must haves.
Flip flops-Cobblers’ best gift to heeled tired twosomes, these thongs for feet have taken an outdoorsy avatar making it the most preferred teen foot wear .Spruce up your pair of toesis with a little bling.Buy a basic pair in your favourite fluorescent colour and add a line of sheer ,tiny sequins or multicolored beads or teenie weenie snail shells.
Tank tops-Nothing makes a good pair of well fitted jeans look cooler than a tank top-the good old ganji like jersey.Salman bhai’s ganji look takes a beating when gals wear one with denims. Add glam to your spaghetti top, musclebag or tank with a colourful butterfly or dragonfly brooch near the collarbone.
Tattoos-Ever since Bollywood stars have started going for what Angelina Jolie wears on her arms (tattoos, not Brad Pitt, silly), Surtis have found the fashion trend painworthy.Suburbans are at it ,getting permanent signs,emblems,gods,serpents,dragons,flora and fauna painfully penned on their wrists,calves,ankles,shoulders and elsewhere. If you are above 18 and want to go in for one, get a temporary one and look at it for a month before going on for something that will stay on your skin for the rest of your life.
Skin -Scorched skin needs tender loving care. Avoid heavy creams which are loaded with chemicals no matter how soft they make your skin feel. Always buy a face cream with aqua as the main component. Better still; depend on good old rose water, cucumber juice, milk/buttermilk for instant relief. You could store it in a spritzer and refrigerate it, for gentle spraying on face whenever required.
Nails- Now available in Tapi town are nail colours that could put a rainbow to shame and what better weather than this to show off pretty nails. For youngsters, dabble in some do it yourself nail art by simply adding multicolored stud and locking them on with a clear nail varnish top coat. Also available now are art pens that you may use to make tiny hearts and smileys over nail paint. If you must use a new colour in a cheap product, make sure you protect your nail with a base coat of a known brand first.Ladies, kindly leave funky colours to the girlie age group please, lest you want to look like a member of the Adam’s family.
Hair-Braid, gel, and spike, do what you must to keep it out of harms way. Put it up in a pony tail with a pretty scrunchie or, plug it into a roll with a chopstick like accessory. If you must wear it loose, hold it up with a pair of oversized sunglasses.
Since you are all set now, step out and commit skin sin because nothing looks sexier than a natural tan.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
TAXED BY INCOME IN TAPI TOWN
So you thought that life in Lalaland was a bed of roses, eh? Well, well well, not really and certainly not in the last few days of March.
These are difficult days, with even more difficult words, poor rich lalas can’t even pronounce them properly –perquisite, deficits, assets, assessments, disclosures etc.
You see, too much of anything is never a good thing. Post the dreaded Ides of March, its show time of a different kind, when more profits might mean more loss, for a change.
No matter how much a Lala is troubled by these days of the year, year after year, it still turns out to be the same story for him.
The officers in charge have to complete a set target and every lala in town fears he and his company might be it- the flavour of the month of March.
He has to pull up his socks a little higher, mug up quick ways of explaining his tax exemption theory, how he made hay from tax free agricultural income, how he escaped paying taxes in the name of his spouse and children, how he believes in’ philanthropy begins at work’, when the officers discover the accounts in names of various employees and their family members and be answerable to all the magic bonds that he used to pocket a few rupees more, rather than part with them.
If there is anyone who is closest and most supportive to the Lalas during the month of March, it is, no, not the spouse or the other woman in his life, it’s his CA= Chartered Accountant.
The ‘see a CA’ theory is what gives the Lala some relief, if any and you will often find him cozying up more with his CA ,than his wife in the evenings .
Lalas and their tactful CAs communicate in the language of love-‘pyaar and dil’, err… make that PR and Deal. Both share a ‘deal ka rishta.’
Here is an example of what text messages between the two may read like-
Lala-Deal deke dekho.
CA-Hum deal de chukey sanam.
Lala-Isharo isharo mein deal leney waley, bataa tuney hunar ye seekha kahaan se?
CA-Jab PR kiya toh darna kyaa, PR kiya koi chori nahi ki.
Lala-Deal diya, dard liya?
CA-Deal apna aur treat parayi.
To make things worse, there is tattle within the CA circle that last minute raids in March will be carried out, so as to not give an opportunity to plan.
Officers meanwhile are pointing out ,how Lalas and Co are gaining advantage points by smart play .Figuring their ways out from taxing times ,with TOING theory-“Tax on income no ghotalo.”
It seems the fables and theories put forward each year are getting funnier and more entertaining by the year.
First timers on duty in Surat are amused at how naïve the Surti lala and his CA seem to take department to be.
Who knows, with the Surti fetish for classes to acquire new skill, we might soon have a private ‘dodge your dread session’, by appointment only.
Be rest assured, Lalas wont mind paying dearly for this one.
So you thought that life in Lalaland was a bed of roses, eh? Well, well well, not really and certainly not in the last few days of March.
These are difficult days, with even more difficult words, poor rich lalas can’t even pronounce them properly –perquisite, deficits, assets, assessments, disclosures etc.
You see, too much of anything is never a good thing. Post the dreaded Ides of March, its show time of a different kind, when more profits might mean more loss, for a change.
No matter how much a Lala is troubled by these days of the year, year after year, it still turns out to be the same story for him.
The officers in charge have to complete a set target and every lala in town fears he and his company might be it- the flavour of the month of March.
He has to pull up his socks a little higher, mug up quick ways of explaining his tax exemption theory, how he made hay from tax free agricultural income, how he escaped paying taxes in the name of his spouse and children, how he believes in’ philanthropy begins at work’, when the officers discover the accounts in names of various employees and their family members and be answerable to all the magic bonds that he used to pocket a few rupees more, rather than part with them.
If there is anyone who is closest and most supportive to the Lalas during the month of March, it is, no, not the spouse or the other woman in his life, it’s his CA= Chartered Accountant.
The ‘see a CA’ theory is what gives the Lala some relief, if any and you will often find him cozying up more with his CA ,than his wife in the evenings .
Lalas and their tactful CAs communicate in the language of love-‘pyaar and dil’, err… make that PR and Deal. Both share a ‘deal ka rishta.’
Here is an example of what text messages between the two may read like-
Lala-Deal deke dekho.
CA-Hum deal de chukey sanam.
Lala-Isharo isharo mein deal leney waley, bataa tuney hunar ye seekha kahaan se?
CA-Jab PR kiya toh darna kyaa, PR kiya koi chori nahi ki.
Lala-Deal diya, dard liya?
CA-Deal apna aur treat parayi.
To make things worse, there is tattle within the CA circle that last minute raids in March will be carried out, so as to not give an opportunity to plan.
Officers meanwhile are pointing out ,how Lalas and Co are gaining advantage points by smart play .Figuring their ways out from taxing times ,with TOING theory-“Tax on income no ghotalo.”
It seems the fables and theories put forward each year are getting funnier and more entertaining by the year.
First timers on duty in Surat are amused at how naïve the Surti lala and his CA seem to take department to be.
Who knows, with the Surti fetish for classes to acquire new skill, we might soon have a private ‘dodge your dread session’, by appointment only.
Be rest assured, Lalas wont mind paying dearly for this one.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
AND.......KHOOB-SURAT,SAID THE PIRATE-
VOYAGE TO INDIA VIA CAPTAIN KIDD’S SHIPWRECK.
Ashleshaa Khurana
‘Shiver me shattered timbers ‘went reports when the 310 year old, barnacle covered, coral encrusted Quedagh Merchant was discovered, in the pristine sea waters of the Dominican Republic, 70 feet off Catalina Island.
This was no ordinary vessel .It was one that legends are made of, on the hot trail list of every treasure hunter. The Quedagh Merchant alias Cara Merchant, ship of the notorious Captain William Kidd- Scottish privateer turned swashbuckling pirate, the only one to actually bury treasure on New York’s Gardiner’s Island.
Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island and Edgar Allen Poe’s ‘The Gold Bug’ are some among the works of pirate lore inspired by the history of his story.
Three years down since this invaluable find, Charles.D.Beeker, Director of Underwater Science and Academics Diving program at Indiana University (IU), USA, seeks to visit Surat, India, where The Quedagh Merchant was built in the 17th century for,’ a presentation of a unique and significant aspect.’
Beeker,who recently presented the results of his research to the Museum of London Docklands, in February 2010 pledges,” I am very committed to featuring India’s maritime heritage as represented through Captain Kidd’s captured ship ‘Quedagh Merchant’this is the only example of the unique 17th century Surratt ship building technology and should be recognized for its international significance.”
Since more than 12 years now, Beeker and IU archaeologist Geoffrey Conrad have been exploring the era when the ‘New and old worlds first met’, focusing on La Isabela Bay where the first Spanish settlement was established in 1494 by Columbus.
Appointed to research the shipwreck with his team by the Dominican Republic, Beeker had confirmed its authenticity and observed, ‘When we first removed a cannon last summer, we exposed the keel of the ship. I was just shocked that the keel was still there but the reason it’s probably there is because it was teak which is resistant to decomposition.’
The reason that the ship's keel withstood stormy undersea weather was because Gujarat’s shipbuilders used technique on their timber. Teak was treated by smearing a thin paste of chunnam (lime), gum sundrac and gingelly, letting it dry for a day to turn it hard as stone. Many a ship’s keel was lined with a vegetable based tar substitute-‘dammer’ to make it leak proof, way back in those days.
Praful Wadia whose ancestral trade is boat building, constructs and supplies boats to SMC Surat Municipal Corporation states, ‘The rabetted joints of Gujaratis ship builders makes boats thrice as capable to wade waters while remaining leak proof. Called ‘Wadhrai’ joints, the joint is in the shape of an ‘N’ like loop. Special marine wax like glue, made locally is used on the joints for caulking planks, covered with cotton and clamped tight, making it leak proof. Teak from the Dang forests used in ancient ships, had heavy content of oil which made it resistant to decay in water.’
Shipbuilding is not a just a trade in the coastal towns of Gujarat, according to our ancient texts; it has been a way of life. Geographically located to have the country’s longest coastline that runs 1600 kms, trade via sea existed here since 2 BC. Lothal’s trapezoid reservoir and terracotta boat models prove that. The Mahabharata, ancient Greek and Roman books like the Batiyas and Peryaksa, African Tibu tib, all mention ports of Gujarat
European travelers of 16th and 17th centuries, Tomes Pires, Nicolo Conti, J.Ovington to name a few, have written on the master craftsmanship of Gujratees and their skills in shipbuilding. Ships built here, outshone the ones made in Europe; skillfully constructed to survive rough voyages in spite of damage to certain parts.
Aurangzeb’s navy here, had huge, 800 ton ships like the ‘Ganj I Sawai would sail out from Surat’s Meccapul, carrying Haj pilgrims to and fro.
Lovji Nusservanji Wadia, who set up the Bombay dockyard and went on to build frigates for the British, had honed his skills in his home state, in the city of Surat his surname -Wadia comes from the word ‘Wahandia’meaning shipbuilders.
During Kidd’s trial, in 1699, Kidd had testified that Quedagh Merchant was a “ship about four hundred tons in burthen made by the Surrat moors.’
Being the only pirate ship ever discovered in the Caribbean and only one of the three discovered in America, it is extremely precious to the departments of underwater -archeology, marine biology, ecology and geology. ‘Interpretation is very important to this project, as one of our main goals is to educate the general public not only about the shipwreck but also to the fragility of the surrounding marine life and their ecosystem.’ points out Fritz Hanselmann, anthropologist and research coordinator with the Office of Underwater Science.
Months after its discovery, the U.S. Agency for International Development USAID had awarded IU $ 200,000 to turn Captain Kidd’s shipwreck site and three other underwater preserves in the Dominican Republic into a ‘no-take, no –anchor ‘living museums.
National Geographic aired a documentary and put out a DVD on the discovery and study of the ship, including teak excavation called,’Shipwreck! Captain Kidd.’
In January this year, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis (biggest in the world) sponsored a cannon weighing1500 pounds, from the 26 stacked on the wreck, to be transported to the IU’s Hoosier underwater Science Conservation Lab for 5 years of study and conservation. ‘This is a great opportunity for IU faculty and a student to obtain hands on experience during the converstion of this unique artifact that has created such international interest.’ says Beeker.
Professor Sumit Ganguly, Director of India Studies at IU, who received the’Pravasi Bhartiya Samman Award’the highest honour bestowed to an Indian abroad, from President Pratibha Patil, last year, says,’ Indiana University has an International reputation for our academic excellence and diverse International programs. Beyond the discovery of Captain Kidd’s shipwreck in the Caribbean Sea, I am pleased with the IU investigations of the Quedagh Merchant, as a unique example of 17th century shipbuilding techniques in Western India and among the most significant shipwrecks representative of this era of India’s maritime heritage.’
“People often ask me if I found any of the famous treasure on board,” smiles Charles Beeker, I point out that,” No other 17th century ships had rabetted joints with tongue in groove construction. We believe this is a living museum. The treasure in this case, is the wreck itself. The preserve will provide a treasure of sorts for people to enjoy for hundreds of years’
Someday, he hopes to sail the shores and share the true wealth of Quedagh Merchant in her homeland-India.
PRIVATEER OR PIRATE?
Source-National Geographic
Captain Kidd blurred the line between pirate and privateer. Acting originally as a government issued privateer, he was ultimately executed for piracy. By either name, Kidd left behind a legacy and a mystery. Learn more about the man behind the tales:
Captain William Kidd was the only pirate known to ever actually bury treasure—on New York’s Gardiner’s Island.
Privateers were captains enlisted by the government to hunt pirates. A privateer captain would split the booty he captured with his crew and the government.
Although he’s often depicted as a flamboyant cutthroat pirate, William Kidd was actually an accomplished sailor and a businessman of considerable means.
London’s Execution Dock served for over 400 years as the prime spot to hang pirates…including William Kidd.
While the skull-and-crossbones is a popular pirate symbol, Golden Age pirates all had their own, unique flags.
The bodies of hanged pirates were often covered in tar and hung on the shore in a metal cage called a gibbet as a warning to would-be pirates.
During the first attempt to hang Captain Kidd, the rope broke and he fell. His executioners had to hang him a second time.
After his execution, the remainder of Kidd’s treasure was donated to Greenwich Hospital, a facility for British sailors.
SHIP’S NAMES, A STORY BY ITSELF
Frederick Hanselman, IU.
In the petition of Armenian owners to the Admiralty Court it was named several times QUIDAH MERCHANT alias KARY MERCHANT. Most likely CARA is misspelled KARY.
Quedagh is most likely after the Sultanate Kedah. This was common to give geographical names: India Merchant, Armenian Merchant or Surat Merchant.
What is Kary merchant? One hypothesis is that the Kalantar family which possessed the vessel had a monopole right, granted by the East India Company for the trade of garnets to England. In Armenian Kary Merchant is Stone (precise) Merchant.
ARMENIAN ANGLE.
Dr.Pavel Galoumian, along with his spouse Isabella heads ANAHIT-Armenian Nautical Association for the History of Intermaritime Trade. They are directly involved in archival and field research and had visited Surat last year .Both believe,” The Quedagh Merchant was not an ordinary vessel even the very fact of the appearance of an exotic oriental vessel built in India and belonged to Armenians in Caribbean waters is unique. More important is that the Quedagh Merchant find is valuable when it comes to the whole history of international relations and their evolution towards the modern philosophy, namely that of cooperation and fair trade. She represents an important historical heritage for many great nations of 17th century and merit a wide international recognition. “
PIRATE LINGO
Barnacles –Marine creatures related to crabs and lobsters.
Cackle Fruit-Chicken eggs.
Duffle-Everything a sailor owns, including bag.
Holystone-Bars of stone used to scrub decks, making sailors look like they are kneeling and praying.
Jacob’s Ladder-Rope ladder on ships.
Monkey-Small cannon.
Salmagundi-Popular pirate dish with chopped meat, eggs, anchovies, onions seasoned with garlic, oil, vinegar, salt and pepper.
Black Jack- Large drinking mugs of leather made stiff by applying tar.
Scuttlebutt-Gossip on board deck while passing barrel of booze around.
VOYAGE TO INDIA VIA CAPTAIN KIDD’S SHIPWRECK.
Ashleshaa Khurana
‘Shiver me shattered timbers ‘went reports when the 310 year old, barnacle covered, coral encrusted Quedagh Merchant was discovered, in the pristine sea waters of the Dominican Republic, 70 feet off Catalina Island.
This was no ordinary vessel .It was one that legends are made of, on the hot trail list of every treasure hunter. The Quedagh Merchant alias Cara Merchant, ship of the notorious Captain William Kidd- Scottish privateer turned swashbuckling pirate, the only one to actually bury treasure on New York’s Gardiner’s Island.
Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island and Edgar Allen Poe’s ‘The Gold Bug’ are some among the works of pirate lore inspired by the history of his story.
Three years down since this invaluable find, Charles.D.Beeker, Director of Underwater Science and Academics Diving program at Indiana University (IU), USA, seeks to visit Surat, India, where The Quedagh Merchant was built in the 17th century for,’ a presentation of a unique and significant aspect.’
Beeker,who recently presented the results of his research to the Museum of London Docklands, in February 2010 pledges,” I am very committed to featuring India’s maritime heritage as represented through Captain Kidd’s captured ship ‘Quedagh Merchant’this is the only example of the unique 17th century Surratt ship building technology and should be recognized for its international significance.”
Since more than 12 years now, Beeker and IU archaeologist Geoffrey Conrad have been exploring the era when the ‘New and old worlds first met’, focusing on La Isabela Bay where the first Spanish settlement was established in 1494 by Columbus.
Appointed to research the shipwreck with his team by the Dominican Republic, Beeker had confirmed its authenticity and observed, ‘When we first removed a cannon last summer, we exposed the keel of the ship. I was just shocked that the keel was still there but the reason it’s probably there is because it was teak which is resistant to decomposition.’
The reason that the ship's keel withstood stormy undersea weather was because Gujarat’s shipbuilders used technique on their timber. Teak was treated by smearing a thin paste of chunnam (lime), gum sundrac and gingelly, letting it dry for a day to turn it hard as stone. Many a ship’s keel was lined with a vegetable based tar substitute-‘dammer’ to make it leak proof, way back in those days.
Praful Wadia whose ancestral trade is boat building, constructs and supplies boats to SMC Surat Municipal Corporation states, ‘The rabetted joints of Gujaratis ship builders makes boats thrice as capable to wade waters while remaining leak proof. Called ‘Wadhrai’ joints, the joint is in the shape of an ‘N’ like loop. Special marine wax like glue, made locally is used on the joints for caulking planks, covered with cotton and clamped tight, making it leak proof. Teak from the Dang forests used in ancient ships, had heavy content of oil which made it resistant to decay in water.’
Shipbuilding is not a just a trade in the coastal towns of Gujarat, according to our ancient texts; it has been a way of life. Geographically located to have the country’s longest coastline that runs 1600 kms, trade via sea existed here since 2 BC. Lothal’s trapezoid reservoir and terracotta boat models prove that. The Mahabharata, ancient Greek and Roman books like the Batiyas and Peryaksa, African Tibu tib, all mention ports of Gujarat
European travelers of 16th and 17th centuries, Tomes Pires, Nicolo Conti, J.Ovington to name a few, have written on the master craftsmanship of Gujratees and their skills in shipbuilding. Ships built here, outshone the ones made in Europe; skillfully constructed to survive rough voyages in spite of damage to certain parts.
Aurangzeb’s navy here, had huge, 800 ton ships like the ‘Ganj I Sawai would sail out from Surat’s Meccapul, carrying Haj pilgrims to and fro.
Lovji Nusservanji Wadia, who set up the Bombay dockyard and went on to build frigates for the British, had honed his skills in his home state, in the city of Surat his surname -Wadia comes from the word ‘Wahandia’meaning shipbuilders.
During Kidd’s trial, in 1699, Kidd had testified that Quedagh Merchant was a “ship about four hundred tons in burthen made by the Surrat moors.’
Being the only pirate ship ever discovered in the Caribbean and only one of the three discovered in America, it is extremely precious to the departments of underwater -archeology, marine biology, ecology and geology. ‘Interpretation is very important to this project, as one of our main goals is to educate the general public not only about the shipwreck but also to the fragility of the surrounding marine life and their ecosystem.’ points out Fritz Hanselmann, anthropologist and research coordinator with the Office of Underwater Science.
Months after its discovery, the U.S. Agency for International Development USAID had awarded IU $ 200,000 to turn Captain Kidd’s shipwreck site and three other underwater preserves in the Dominican Republic into a ‘no-take, no –anchor ‘living museums.
National Geographic aired a documentary and put out a DVD on the discovery and study of the ship, including teak excavation called,’Shipwreck! Captain Kidd.’
In January this year, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis (biggest in the world) sponsored a cannon weighing1500 pounds, from the 26 stacked on the wreck, to be transported to the IU’s Hoosier underwater Science Conservation Lab for 5 years of study and conservation. ‘This is a great opportunity for IU faculty and a student to obtain hands on experience during the converstion of this unique artifact that has created such international interest.’ says Beeker.
Professor Sumit Ganguly, Director of India Studies at IU, who received the’Pravasi Bhartiya Samman Award’the highest honour bestowed to an Indian abroad, from President Pratibha Patil, last year, says,’ Indiana University has an International reputation for our academic excellence and diverse International programs. Beyond the discovery of Captain Kidd’s shipwreck in the Caribbean Sea, I am pleased with the IU investigations of the Quedagh Merchant, as a unique example of 17th century shipbuilding techniques in Western India and among the most significant shipwrecks representative of this era of India’s maritime heritage.’
“People often ask me if I found any of the famous treasure on board,” smiles Charles Beeker, I point out that,” No other 17th century ships had rabetted joints with tongue in groove construction. We believe this is a living museum. The treasure in this case, is the wreck itself. The preserve will provide a treasure of sorts for people to enjoy for hundreds of years’
Someday, he hopes to sail the shores and share the true wealth of Quedagh Merchant in her homeland-India.
PRIVATEER OR PIRATE?
Source-National Geographic
Captain Kidd blurred the line between pirate and privateer. Acting originally as a government issued privateer, he was ultimately executed for piracy. By either name, Kidd left behind a legacy and a mystery. Learn more about the man behind the tales:
Captain William Kidd was the only pirate known to ever actually bury treasure—on New York’s Gardiner’s Island.
Privateers were captains enlisted by the government to hunt pirates. A privateer captain would split the booty he captured with his crew and the government.
Although he’s often depicted as a flamboyant cutthroat pirate, William Kidd was actually an accomplished sailor and a businessman of considerable means.
London’s Execution Dock served for over 400 years as the prime spot to hang pirates…including William Kidd.
While the skull-and-crossbones is a popular pirate symbol, Golden Age pirates all had their own, unique flags.
The bodies of hanged pirates were often covered in tar and hung on the shore in a metal cage called a gibbet as a warning to would-be pirates.
During the first attempt to hang Captain Kidd, the rope broke and he fell. His executioners had to hang him a second time.
After his execution, the remainder of Kidd’s treasure was donated to Greenwich Hospital, a facility for British sailors.
SHIP’S NAMES, A STORY BY ITSELF
Frederick Hanselman, IU.
In the petition of Armenian owners to the Admiralty Court it was named several times QUIDAH MERCHANT alias KARY MERCHANT. Most likely CARA is misspelled KARY.
Quedagh is most likely after the Sultanate Kedah. This was common to give geographical names: India Merchant, Armenian Merchant or Surat Merchant.
What is Kary merchant? One hypothesis is that the Kalantar family which possessed the vessel had a monopole right, granted by the East India Company for the trade of garnets to England. In Armenian Kary Merchant is Stone (precise) Merchant.
ARMENIAN ANGLE.
Dr.Pavel Galoumian, along with his spouse Isabella heads ANAHIT-Armenian Nautical Association for the History of Intermaritime Trade. They are directly involved in archival and field research and had visited Surat last year .Both believe,” The Quedagh Merchant was not an ordinary vessel even the very fact of the appearance of an exotic oriental vessel built in India and belonged to Armenians in Caribbean waters is unique. More important is that the Quedagh Merchant find is valuable when it comes to the whole history of international relations and their evolution towards the modern philosophy, namely that of cooperation and fair trade. She represents an important historical heritage for many great nations of 17th century and merit a wide international recognition. “
PIRATE LINGO
Barnacles –Marine creatures related to crabs and lobsters.
Cackle Fruit-Chicken eggs.
Duffle-Everything a sailor owns, including bag.
Holystone-Bars of stone used to scrub decks, making sailors look like they are kneeling and praying.
Jacob’s Ladder-Rope ladder on ships.
Monkey-Small cannon.
Salmagundi-Popular pirate dish with chopped meat, eggs, anchovies, onions seasoned with garlic, oil, vinegar, salt and pepper.
Black Jack- Large drinking mugs of leather made stiff by applying tar.
Scuttlebutt-Gossip on board deck while passing barrel of booze around.
Monday, March 8, 2010
T-20’s TAPI TOWN TATTLE.
Indian cricket team’s, friendly, benefit T20 match in Surat, before IPL season 3, was the topic of constant tattle in Tapi town.
Besides an event of this scale being organized for the first time here, Sachin, THE God of cricket, was going to perform for the first time, post the Gwalior glory.
The organizers pleaded Surtis to participate in a peaceful manner during the match and turn this golden opportunity of the town into a proud moment, with dignity.
Surtis buzzed phones over hot topics like, ‘who knows whom how well” and” what is the colour of your ticket?”.
With a seating capacity of 16, 700, at the freshly spruced up Lalbhai Contractor stadium, 14,000 tickets were sold out.
Nomophobics smuggled in phones, hiding them along with unmentionable body parts.
The crowds filled in the stands from 7 in the morning and once inside, it did not matter what colour their entry card was. The upper stalls were filled up with groups of fun loving locals and as usual had the maximum fun.
Most of the ones seated in the pavilion and royal boxes, had come in a couple. There were Sunday papas with enthusiastic poiras (fathers & sons), some senior officials with bored aunties, rich businessmen with pretty girls etc.
Both, Tendulkar and Sehwag’s teams were received with a standing ovation, as were all players who arrived and departed from the playing ground during the match.
Both teams shared the same pairs of cheerleaders.Sehwag and Kaif also shared a cricket bat, while Sachin used two.
Stud Yuvraj wore shoes with yellow soles that matched with his specially designed sunny tee shirt .He scored 12 runs amongst great applause, most hit using a single hand.
The commentator took T 20’s fun theme a tad too seriously and entertained crowds with lines like,’Watt ae sott!”,”Yuvi ke dono hath khule”,’aai hai!” etc.
There was no official score board on the cricket ground to display the score, but then, who was counting.
Entertainment during the lunch break had songs like,’Patiala peg lagakey, mein talli ho gayi”which were sung out to Surtis of the dry state who braved heat, thirst and hunger.
The players relished Corn cheese palak, Mutton seekh kebabs, Paneer lababdar, Chicken mamnas, Tangdi kebabs, Dhara fish tikkas, Chicken Biryani, dal makhani, patra fish, butter chicken boneless and Jeera rice with Mung dal halwa and Gulab Jamun for dessert as Surat nu jaman.
The lunch apparently must have been too heavy for Sehwag, Yuvraj and Gambhir who did not come out to field, post it.
Sachin not only fielded for his team, but also batted to the bowling of Surti boys, Mehul Patel-nickname Mehul Bano and Deepak Bhandari, before getting caught at the boundary by Mehul Bano.
Sehwag’s team won the match but for the Surti’s, they were winner all.
Spectators understandably cheered Sachin the most and remarked,’enaj toh paisa chey.’(He is worth it)
Everyone celebrated by popping soda bottles in the dry state, since champagne is taboo.
Surat’s first friendly T20 match turned out to be a good sign of the times to come.
The security staff, police officials and organizers all breathed a huge sigh of relief and hoped to catch a good night’s sleep at long last.
Indian cricket team’s, friendly, benefit T20 match in Surat, before IPL season 3, was the topic of constant tattle in Tapi town.
Besides an event of this scale being organized for the first time here, Sachin, THE God of cricket, was going to perform for the first time, post the Gwalior glory.
The organizers pleaded Surtis to participate in a peaceful manner during the match and turn this golden opportunity of the town into a proud moment, with dignity.
Surtis buzzed phones over hot topics like, ‘who knows whom how well” and” what is the colour of your ticket?”.
With a seating capacity of 16, 700, at the freshly spruced up Lalbhai Contractor stadium, 14,000 tickets were sold out.
Nomophobics smuggled in phones, hiding them along with unmentionable body parts.
The crowds filled in the stands from 7 in the morning and once inside, it did not matter what colour their entry card was. The upper stalls were filled up with groups of fun loving locals and as usual had the maximum fun.
Most of the ones seated in the pavilion and royal boxes, had come in a couple. There were Sunday papas with enthusiastic poiras (fathers & sons), some senior officials with bored aunties, rich businessmen with pretty girls etc.
Both, Tendulkar and Sehwag’s teams were received with a standing ovation, as were all players who arrived and departed from the playing ground during the match.
Both teams shared the same pairs of cheerleaders.Sehwag and Kaif also shared a cricket bat, while Sachin used two.
Stud Yuvraj wore shoes with yellow soles that matched with his specially designed sunny tee shirt .He scored 12 runs amongst great applause, most hit using a single hand.
The commentator took T 20’s fun theme a tad too seriously and entertained crowds with lines like,’Watt ae sott!”,”Yuvi ke dono hath khule”,’aai hai!” etc.
There was no official score board on the cricket ground to display the score, but then, who was counting.
Entertainment during the lunch break had songs like,’Patiala peg lagakey, mein talli ho gayi”which were sung out to Surtis of the dry state who braved heat, thirst and hunger.
The players relished Corn cheese palak, Mutton seekh kebabs, Paneer lababdar, Chicken mamnas, Tangdi kebabs, Dhara fish tikkas, Chicken Biryani, dal makhani, patra fish, butter chicken boneless and Jeera rice with Mung dal halwa and Gulab Jamun for dessert as Surat nu jaman.
The lunch apparently must have been too heavy for Sehwag, Yuvraj and Gambhir who did not come out to field, post it.
Sachin not only fielded for his team, but also batted to the bowling of Surti boys, Mehul Patel-nickname Mehul Bano and Deepak Bhandari, before getting caught at the boundary by Mehul Bano.
Sehwag’s team won the match but for the Surti’s, they were winner all.
Spectators understandably cheered Sachin the most and remarked,’enaj toh paisa chey.’(He is worth it)
Everyone celebrated by popping soda bottles in the dry state, since champagne is taboo.
Surat’s first friendly T20 match turned out to be a good sign of the times to come.
The security staff, police officials and organizers all breathed a huge sigh of relief and hoped to catch a good night’s sleep at long last.
Friday, March 5, 2010
WOMEN ON TOP-FIRST LADIES OF BOLLYWOOD.
India’s first Oscar winner, costume designer Bhanu Athaiya is often remembered now and again for her feat in a category that unfortunately does not yet exist in the awards given out for achievements in Indian cinema.
Here are some Divas of Bollywood, first in their league, who set the standard for others to follow.
Devika Rani- Prima Donna, First lady of Indian cinema. First recipient of Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1970, earlier awarded Padma Shri in 1958. Student of London’s Royal Academy of drama and music. Apprentice to Elizabeth Arden, she was educated in architecture, textile, design décor. Heroine of the 1930’s, yet, way ahead of her times. Shocked prudes with first ever lip lock on screen that ran a record 4 minutes, in the movie Karma, which could put Mallika Sherawat to shame. Set up Bombay Talkies, which gave us the brilliant discovery- Dilip Kumar. This ban ki chidiya was given full state honours on her death in 1994.
Fatima Begum-Bollywood’s first lady director. An Urdu stage artist from Surat,she entered the film line with her debut in acting in Veer Abhimanyu,1922.Within four years went on to venture in writing ,producing ,directing films. Launched her own production house-Fatima films and directed Bulbul –e-Paristan.Shone on the sepia screen with her extremely fair screen, dark make up and fancy wigs. Though her marriage to the then Nawab of Sachin stood disputed in court, she followed her own dreams and paved a path to super success. All her three daughters, Zubeida, Sultan and Shazadi were superstars too.
Zubeida- Legendary actress, stunning beauty; this princess of Sachin, debuted at the mere age of 12. Talented at singing and dancing, she possessed an impeccable gift of speech. Female lead for India’s first talkie-Alam Ara, Prithviraj Raj Kapoor played a supporting actor in it. Her box-office bonanzas jingled cash counters. Highest paid actor of her times. She set the screen afire, portraying characters which ranged from a courtesan to mythological ones. Successive hits include Balidaan based on Tagore’s Sacrifice. Rocked as the circus gal of, ‘Zarina’ whose steamy scenes sent censors in a tizzy.
Nadia- The fearless. India’s first stuntwoman, The Hunterwali, was an Australian- born Mary Ann Evans. Introduced to Bollywood via Wadia Movietone, she broke the belief that heroines should be docile stereotypes, wore figure hugging clothes, knee high boots. Bringing baddies to book by jumping horse carts, fencing with villains, running on train tops, swinging atop chandeliers, performed all her dangerous stunts .This whip brandishing ,bold superwoman, who was queen of tongawallahs and paanwallahs set trends of Hunterwali bags, bangles and chappals,nevertheless.
Usha Khanna-Bollywood’s only established female music director. At sweet sixteen, she composed her own songs without being formally trained in music. Made a grand debut 1959 with ‘Dil Deke Dekho’ and set rumours rife that it was just a publicity stunt and someone else was actually composing the music.50 years in the industry, she still composes tunes for television serials and music videos. Her tune in ‘Har nazar ke sau afsaane’ inspired A R Rahman for ‘Latka dikha diya ‘.Known to promote new talent, Sonu Nigam, Pankaj Udhas, Roop Kumar Rathod,to name a few.
Tun Tun-Christened thus, by Dilip Kumar, this roly poly comedian’s mere presence set off laugh a riot spells.While other actresses starved themselves, Tun Tun constantly ate from her ‘dabba’ on the sets, claiming,’I have to maintain my weight. Born Uma Devi and orphaned as a child, she had a natural funny flair but was a singer by choice. She was introduced to many music directors by Govinda’s parents Arun and Nirmala Devi Ahuja.Her childhood dream to sing for Naushad came true with the chartbuster,’Afsaana likh rahi hoon’,later on his advice she switched to acting.
Nadira-Although Kajol was the first actress to receive an award for a negative role, Bollywood’s original vamp was born with Farhat Ezekiel Nadira.Femme fatale Maya in Shri 420.While Kuldeep Kaur(Anarkali), Manorama, and Shashikala played baddies who troubled the heroines, haughty Nadira made life living hell even for spouses, as the haughty bold savage princess in Aan, jealous wife in Dil apnaa aur preet parai.An established baddie against chaste heroines,she was amongst the first Indian actors to own a Rolls Royce.
Persis Khambatta-Zeenat Aman is considered the first lady in Bollywood to crossover from winning a beauty paegent to acting.Before her, it was Persis Khambatta-India’s bald and beautiful-‘you fascinate me ‘gal, who scored big in Hollywood in spite of not making waves back home. In 1979, she presented an academy award, something that no other citizen of India has been invited to do yet. Breathtaking beauty as llia of Star Trek, she went on to star in Nighthawks, Megaforce, and Warriors of the lost world. Said to have refused to strip for films or Playboy magazine, this Indian hottie dies a controversial, untimely death.
Daisy & Honey Irani-Acting for these balikas, was no kid stuff. Daisy and sister Honey Irani were cherubic charmers, who fetched biggest openings during the golden years of cinema. They were household names as favourite child artists. Roles were specially written to fit them in, films promoted on their basis.Daisy continued to work in the industry for more than 35 films. Honey went on to write successful scripts. She was once married to Javed Akhtar and is the mother of Zoya and Farhan Akhtar.
Sharmila Tagore-Kareena Kapoor took to Tashan and melted down to size zero for impact in a bikini. But, it was beau Saif Ali Khan’s mommy dearest who first sizzled on Indian screen in an itsy bitsy, teeny weenie, bikini. Tagore who began her career with Satyajit Ray’s Apur Sansar and stole many hearts as the Kashmir ki kali, ended the age of innocence with an Evening in Paris. This put the established actress on the list of Indian Cinema’s hottest heroines forever.
India’s first Oscar winner, costume designer Bhanu Athaiya is often remembered now and again for her feat in a category that unfortunately does not yet exist in the awards given out for achievements in Indian cinema.
Here are some Divas of Bollywood, first in their league, who set the standard for others to follow.
Devika Rani- Prima Donna, First lady of Indian cinema. First recipient of Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1970, earlier awarded Padma Shri in 1958. Student of London’s Royal Academy of drama and music. Apprentice to Elizabeth Arden, she was educated in architecture, textile, design décor. Heroine of the 1930’s, yet, way ahead of her times. Shocked prudes with first ever lip lock on screen that ran a record 4 minutes, in the movie Karma, which could put Mallika Sherawat to shame. Set up Bombay Talkies, which gave us the brilliant discovery- Dilip Kumar. This ban ki chidiya was given full state honours on her death in 1994.
Fatima Begum-Bollywood’s first lady director. An Urdu stage artist from Surat,she entered the film line with her debut in acting in Veer Abhimanyu,1922.Within four years went on to venture in writing ,producing ,directing films. Launched her own production house-Fatima films and directed Bulbul –e-Paristan.Shone on the sepia screen with her extremely fair screen, dark make up and fancy wigs. Though her marriage to the then Nawab of Sachin stood disputed in court, she followed her own dreams and paved a path to super success. All her three daughters, Zubeida, Sultan and Shazadi were superstars too.
Zubeida- Legendary actress, stunning beauty; this princess of Sachin, debuted at the mere age of 12. Talented at singing and dancing, she possessed an impeccable gift of speech. Female lead for India’s first talkie-Alam Ara, Prithviraj Raj Kapoor played a supporting actor in it. Her box-office bonanzas jingled cash counters. Highest paid actor of her times. She set the screen afire, portraying characters which ranged from a courtesan to mythological ones. Successive hits include Balidaan based on Tagore’s Sacrifice. Rocked as the circus gal of, ‘Zarina’ whose steamy scenes sent censors in a tizzy.
Nadia- The fearless. India’s first stuntwoman, The Hunterwali, was an Australian- born Mary Ann Evans. Introduced to Bollywood via Wadia Movietone, she broke the belief that heroines should be docile stereotypes, wore figure hugging clothes, knee high boots. Bringing baddies to book by jumping horse carts, fencing with villains, running on train tops, swinging atop chandeliers, performed all her dangerous stunts .This whip brandishing ,bold superwoman, who was queen of tongawallahs and paanwallahs set trends of Hunterwali bags, bangles and chappals,nevertheless.
Usha Khanna-Bollywood’s only established female music director. At sweet sixteen, she composed her own songs without being formally trained in music. Made a grand debut 1959 with ‘Dil Deke Dekho’ and set rumours rife that it was just a publicity stunt and someone else was actually composing the music.50 years in the industry, she still composes tunes for television serials and music videos. Her tune in ‘Har nazar ke sau afsaane’ inspired A R Rahman for ‘Latka dikha diya ‘.Known to promote new talent, Sonu Nigam, Pankaj Udhas, Roop Kumar Rathod,to name a few.
Tun Tun-Christened thus, by Dilip Kumar, this roly poly comedian’s mere presence set off laugh a riot spells.While other actresses starved themselves, Tun Tun constantly ate from her ‘dabba’ on the sets, claiming,’I have to maintain my weight. Born Uma Devi and orphaned as a child, she had a natural funny flair but was a singer by choice. She was introduced to many music directors by Govinda’s parents Arun and Nirmala Devi Ahuja.Her childhood dream to sing for Naushad came true with the chartbuster,’Afsaana likh rahi hoon’,later on his advice she switched to acting.
Nadira-Although Kajol was the first actress to receive an award for a negative role, Bollywood’s original vamp was born with Farhat Ezekiel Nadira.Femme fatale Maya in Shri 420.While Kuldeep Kaur(Anarkali), Manorama, and Shashikala played baddies who troubled the heroines, haughty Nadira made life living hell even for spouses, as the haughty bold savage princess in Aan, jealous wife in Dil apnaa aur preet parai.An established baddie against chaste heroines,she was amongst the first Indian actors to own a Rolls Royce.
Persis Khambatta-Zeenat Aman is considered the first lady in Bollywood to crossover from winning a beauty paegent to acting.Before her, it was Persis Khambatta-India’s bald and beautiful-‘you fascinate me ‘gal, who scored big in Hollywood in spite of not making waves back home. In 1979, she presented an academy award, something that no other citizen of India has been invited to do yet. Breathtaking beauty as llia of Star Trek, she went on to star in Nighthawks, Megaforce, and Warriors of the lost world. Said to have refused to strip for films or Playboy magazine, this Indian hottie dies a controversial, untimely death.
Daisy & Honey Irani-Acting for these balikas, was no kid stuff. Daisy and sister Honey Irani were cherubic charmers, who fetched biggest openings during the golden years of cinema. They were household names as favourite child artists. Roles were specially written to fit them in, films promoted on their basis.Daisy continued to work in the industry for more than 35 films. Honey went on to write successful scripts. She was once married to Javed Akhtar and is the mother of Zoya and Farhan Akhtar.
Sharmila Tagore-Kareena Kapoor took to Tashan and melted down to size zero for impact in a bikini. But, it was beau Saif Ali Khan’s mommy dearest who first sizzled on Indian screen in an itsy bitsy, teeny weenie, bikini. Tagore who began her career with Satyajit Ray’s Apur Sansar and stole many hearts as the Kashmir ki kali, ended the age of innocence with an Evening in Paris. This put the established actress on the list of Indian Cinema’s hottest heroines forever.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
HOT STEPPING HEROES
Akshay Kumar is doing a Travolta in his next'Action Replay', while Shahid was a dancer in last.Here is the story of Bollywood dance,by male lead actors,down the ages-
Its 4 a.m. at Clark Quay, by the Singapore river.DJ Harvey is playing to a full house at the Rupee Room. The crowd is a mixed breed of Asians and Europeans; the song - ‘koi kahey kehta rahey’, from Dil Chata hai.
“Weekends are always jam packed”, says Dhruv Luthra, 23, a regular here” my friends and I love teaching the enthusiastic firangs Bollywood dance steps. Our favourite is,’Go-Hrithik’ a combo of Govinda and Hrithik’s steps. Everyone always joins in.”
Since circa 1935,Bombay, when K.L.Saigal ran around the trees, singing to his amour, to Danny Boyle in L.A., acknowledging Slumdog Millionaire’s choreographer (our very Bandra boy Longinus Fernandes) in his Oscar acceptance speech,Bollywood dancing has surely come full circle. Male leads in Indian Cinema have often shot to fame by the mere magic of their moves.
Magic of Imagination-Kalpana….
Dancing on celluloid by a lead hero, was first taken seriously when Indian critics sat up and noticed Shri Uday Shankar’s,’Kalpana’ (1948).The entire movie was in ballet form, depicting a dancer’s dream of setting up an academy.Shankar, sitar maestro Ravi Shankar’s elder brother, had shot for this in Gemini studios, with his wife Amala.He was known world wide for his Hindu ballet troupe and performance with Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova.
‘We were shown’ Kalpana ‘at the SDCI, it is an outstanding piece of work, ‘votes Vaibhavi Merchant, Bollywood’s ace choreographer,’ Udayji has depicted dance and music through his body, for the audience’s imagination.’
Yahoo! Chahey koi mujhey junglee kahey……
“Dance has always been an integral part of our leading men in cinema, “states Jaaved Jaaferi,” we have had it in classical and folk forms, in Gopi Krishna and Bhagwaan dada, in the facial expressions and body language of Raj Kapoor ji. While movements of other matinee idols like Dilip Kumar, Dev Anand, and Rajesh Khanna were accepted because they were popular for their acting, Shammiji had an original style of dance, with stylish feet movement and the way he would jerk his head.”
Nicknamed ‘Rebel star’ by film publicist Bunny Ruben; Shammi Kapoor in his avatar of a cross between James Dean like looks and Elvis Presley like steps broke all norms of the then prevalent 'gentlemanly behaviour'. Dressed in tee shirts and leather jackets as per his wife Geeta Bali's advise.He started getting jiggy with it, gleefully tumbled down hills, raised arched brows above flirty eyes, made his heroines and audiences melt. Crooning away on screen, as the face for Rafi Saab’s voice. Numbers brilliantly composed by O.P.Nayyar and R.D.Burman for super hit Nasir Hussain played a major role for this hot stepper to set a cult that continues till date.
Taa thayya taa thayya ho…..
Few people know that Jeetendra’s first movie was as Sandhya’s double in Navrang, at the age of 17.Later,when he danced in a tee shirt and legendary white shoes, in Farz,to,’Mast baharon ka main aashiq’ he began his journey as ‘Jumping Jack.’
“My dance master, Shri B.Hiralal, was a very hard task master, but fabulous at his work.I owe him all the credit. A student is just as good as his guru is. The white shoes in that song were just incidental because I like to team the colour of my footwear with my trousers “Says young tarang Jeetendra who continued to enthrall audiences with dance performances; through 70’s, Caravan, to Tohfaa in the 80’s, often accompanied with dozens of extras and props.
Kaml Hassan who shook a talented leg in Sadma and Ek dooje ke liye on ta thayya beats ,too,was grace personified.
I am a Disco Dancer…….
Armed with a B.Sc degree in Chemistry and one from the Film and Television institute, Gouranga Chakraborty aka Mithunda won the National award for Mrigayaa and critical acclaim for Hum Paanch. It was Disco Dancer that made him the hero of the aam janta.
Dance show Boogie Woogie’s finalist, Ritu Gupta, 34, claims,’ when we mummies were asked to perform to male hero numbers, I was thrilled to be given Mithunda’s number .I have grown up watching ‘auva auva koi yahaan naachey ’and all the gals and guys at college always danced in Mithunda’s style.
The pioneer of the very sexual pelvic thrust in India, Mithunda points out,’ I loved watching Fred Astaire and Elvis Presley .I mixed my own style to theirs to create a unique one. These days, since everybody simply copies and follows western steps, dance has become monotonous, without any distinct style.
Bol baby bol, rock and roll……
Breaking the mould in the 1980’s, as a negative lead in Meri Jung, came Jaaved Jaaferi.Dancer par excellence, he brought trained, clean lines. In a combination made from ballet, jazz, martial arts, side thrusts and body control while refraining from facial expressions.
“Bandra was the place to be in,’ reminisces Jaaferi who also co produces India’s pioneer dance show on television-Boogie Woogie.My brother Naaved and I would watch videos of our favourite-Fred Astaire.Later, Saturday Night Fever and Michael Jackson numbers on VHS were available and very inspirational. Travolta brought the whole disco revolution and pelvic involvement in dance and sexuality in it with,’you should be dancing tonight’. Men started strutting after that. We would practice for hours and go to the discs and perform our thing by adding our own steps to memorized moves.”
Govinda aala re aala………
Chichi, as he is fondly called, means ‘little finger’ in Punjabi, but this ‘Virar ka chora’ turned out to be a big package. Inspired by Travolta, he made a VHS of himself, showing his groovy dance styles and circulated it to producers. When given a chance, his movies and moves made the upper stall go hopping haywire.
“I did not like the idea of sitting outside offices for long hours, dwindling my thumbs and making small talk.I concentrated on what would make me stand out from the others. My gurus Raam masterji, Saroj Khanji taught me well.I tried my best to please them. Worked hard to improve on what I was taught.Shammiji is my most favourite Bollywood dancer, rare is the ‘umda noor’ (superb illumination) that he had, amongst the industry.”
Stalwart Saroj Khan smiles as she talks about Govinda ,”When one enjoys dancing, it comes out in the pure form.Govinda has that quality ,where people who watch him ,feel like getting up to dance as well. No one can beat his expressions and timing.”
Kaho naa pyaar hai……….
Known to be the perfectionist when it comes to dance moves and grooves, Hrithik Roshan is the universal favourite.Since his debut, his Hotstepping moves are on the hot list of every dancer worth his grooves.
Famed choreographer, Terence Lewis points out,’Hrithik is the rare star who dances better than the chorographer. He takes a simple step to the next level and turns it to poetry in motion. There is such precision and clarity in his moves there is no confusion or awkwardness, however difficult the step. Generally it’s difficult for people with long limbs to dance so gracefully, he is an Ace.”
Yogen Bhagat, 35, Director of Bollywood Step Dance, in Los Angeles, U.S.A. notes,’Hrithik has a very strong connect with the audience. All our students want to learn to dance like him. While working with him for his moves, for the ‘Heartthrobs ‘world tour, I learnt how hard he works, giving more than a 100 %.There was a time when Indians learnt from foreign artists. Now, Hollywood wants to learn from Bollywood.”
Ba ba ba bhangra se le ke pop tak…….
A protégée of the Shiamak Dawer dance institute, his story reads like what every dancers dream would .First seen on screen as a background dancer to Aishwariya Rai in Taal and Karisma Kapoor in Dil Toh Pagal Hai. Shahid Kapoor’s dream debut in Ken Ghosh’s Ishq Vishk Pyaar Vyaar not only won him critical acclaim but also the Filmfare best debutante award. Besides, the film was a perfect showcase for him to show his talent at dance.
It’s Dil Bole Haddippa, from bhangra beats in Jab We Met, freestyling in Kaminey, Fancy footwork in Kismet Connection, or the recently released ‘Chance pe Dance’, Shahid’s skills are in his smooth serenades and he never fails to impress with the same.
All lead choreographers from Saroj Khan to Ahmed Khan agree that he is very sound in technique.
Popular choreographer for male leads in Bollywood, Ceaser of the Bosco Ceaser team couldn’t agree more.”Shahid is an excellent, fabulous and perfect dancer. He is very versatile and can do full justice to any kind of dance. He has no hassles and moves freely. He is smooth with traditional steps as well as modern technique. Since his core is very strong, be it B boying, krumping, pop and lock, he can synchronize it all to perfection and make it look great on screen.Definatley ,the dancing super star ”
PAPA KEHTEY HAI-
Bachna ae haseeno-The charming Rishi Kapoor had girls going crazy with his moves in movies that had foot tapping chartbusters; popular with the youth.Son Ranbir Kapoor has inherited lineage of Kapoor showmen with superb sense of rhythm and timing.
Kajrarey Kajrarey-From the bulb lit bodysuit in Yaraana to Auro’s infectious prance, from fun loving hip hop in Bluff Master and ‘Rock n roll soniye’, to perfect comic timing in Bunty and Bubli, the AB duo is hard to beat.
Hai muscular,hai popular…….but Pappu cant ….Dharampaji with all his good looks and kind nature, failed to over come two left feet as did son Sunny Deol, who would rather break limbs than the dance floor.
Box-2
Jaaved Jaaferi’s Jukebox-
TOP 5 Hollywood Song n dance numbers-
1. Singing in the rain make em laugh Donald O Conner-funny
2. Blue Skies Putting on the Ritz Fred Astaire.-classy
3. Moonwalker Smooth Criminal Michael Jackson.-trendy
4. West side story Cool Group dancing.-best group number
5. Singing in the rain Singing in the rain Gene Kelly.-best baarish number ever.
Jaaved Jaaferi’s Jukebox
Top 5 Bollywood song n dance numbers-
1. Teesri Manzil O haseena zolfonwali Shammi Kapoor.
2. Hum kisise kum nahi Competition medley Rishi Kapoor.
3. Chik puk chikpuk and Muqabla Prabhudeva.
4. Jis desh mein Ganga rehta hai, Prem jaal mein phans gaya mein toh, Govinda.
5. Lakshya Mein aisa kyun hoon? Hrithik.
Vaibhavi’s Merchandise (Ms.Merchant’s comments on the hot steppers)
Amitabh Bachhan-Abundance of talent, great sense of music, extremely gifted.
Shah Rukh Khan-Overcame his drawbacks as dancer via hard work and immense energy.
Hrithik Roshan-Was very conscious, is very sensitive and emotional feels a call to music, tireless.
Aamir –Application actor, performer. Puts in lots of effort to be the character to bring in that aspect of personality of the role played.
Salman-Really stylish, very lazy, like a baby needs to be pushed. Excellent once he believes in doing it.
Saif Ali Khan-Intelligent metro sexual .Has to mentally prepare to overcome awkwardness, but comes along and delivers.
Shahid Kapoor-Exceptional has come of his own. Very well trained and quick learner. Capable of holding longer beats. Balances face and body language perfectly.
Ranbir Kapoor-Born for the camera, great potential, natural dancer, very talented.
Abhishek Bachhan-Brat, wonderful timing, reads the move very well, understands work, trusts his choreographer.
Farhan Akhtar-Very new, very stylish, knows good moves, has come out of his shell.
Akshay Kumar is doing a Travolta in his next'Action Replay', while Shahid was a dancer in last.Here is the story of Bollywood dance,by male lead actors,down the ages-
Its 4 a.m. at Clark Quay, by the Singapore river.DJ Harvey is playing to a full house at the Rupee Room. The crowd is a mixed breed of Asians and Europeans; the song - ‘koi kahey kehta rahey’, from Dil Chata hai.
“Weekends are always jam packed”, says Dhruv Luthra, 23, a regular here” my friends and I love teaching the enthusiastic firangs Bollywood dance steps. Our favourite is,’Go-Hrithik’ a combo of Govinda and Hrithik’s steps. Everyone always joins in.”
Since circa 1935,Bombay, when K.L.Saigal ran around the trees, singing to his amour, to Danny Boyle in L.A., acknowledging Slumdog Millionaire’s choreographer (our very Bandra boy Longinus Fernandes) in his Oscar acceptance speech,Bollywood dancing has surely come full circle. Male leads in Indian Cinema have often shot to fame by the mere magic of their moves.
Magic of Imagination-Kalpana….
Dancing on celluloid by a lead hero, was first taken seriously when Indian critics sat up and noticed Shri Uday Shankar’s,’Kalpana’ (1948).The entire movie was in ballet form, depicting a dancer’s dream of setting up an academy.Shankar, sitar maestro Ravi Shankar’s elder brother, had shot for this in Gemini studios, with his wife Amala.He was known world wide for his Hindu ballet troupe and performance with Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova.
‘We were shown’ Kalpana ‘at the SDCI, it is an outstanding piece of work, ‘votes Vaibhavi Merchant, Bollywood’s ace choreographer,’ Udayji has depicted dance and music through his body, for the audience’s imagination.’
Yahoo! Chahey koi mujhey junglee kahey……
“Dance has always been an integral part of our leading men in cinema, “states Jaaved Jaaferi,” we have had it in classical and folk forms, in Gopi Krishna and Bhagwaan dada, in the facial expressions and body language of Raj Kapoor ji. While movements of other matinee idols like Dilip Kumar, Dev Anand, and Rajesh Khanna were accepted because they were popular for their acting, Shammiji had an original style of dance, with stylish feet movement and the way he would jerk his head.”
Nicknamed ‘Rebel star’ by film publicist Bunny Ruben; Shammi Kapoor in his avatar of a cross between James Dean like looks and Elvis Presley like steps broke all norms of the then prevalent 'gentlemanly behaviour'. Dressed in tee shirts and leather jackets as per his wife Geeta Bali's advise.He started getting jiggy with it, gleefully tumbled down hills, raised arched brows above flirty eyes, made his heroines and audiences melt. Crooning away on screen, as the face for Rafi Saab’s voice. Numbers brilliantly composed by O.P.Nayyar and R.D.Burman for super hit Nasir Hussain played a major role for this hot stepper to set a cult that continues till date.
Taa thayya taa thayya ho…..
Few people know that Jeetendra’s first movie was as Sandhya’s double in Navrang, at the age of 17.Later,when he danced in a tee shirt and legendary white shoes, in Farz,to,’Mast baharon ka main aashiq’ he began his journey as ‘Jumping Jack.’
“My dance master, Shri B.Hiralal, was a very hard task master, but fabulous at his work.I owe him all the credit. A student is just as good as his guru is. The white shoes in that song were just incidental because I like to team the colour of my footwear with my trousers “Says young tarang Jeetendra who continued to enthrall audiences with dance performances; through 70’s, Caravan, to Tohfaa in the 80’s, often accompanied with dozens of extras and props.
Kaml Hassan who shook a talented leg in Sadma and Ek dooje ke liye on ta thayya beats ,too,was grace personified.
I am a Disco Dancer…….
Armed with a B.Sc degree in Chemistry and one from the Film and Television institute, Gouranga Chakraborty aka Mithunda won the National award for Mrigayaa and critical acclaim for Hum Paanch. It was Disco Dancer that made him the hero of the aam janta.
Dance show Boogie Woogie’s finalist, Ritu Gupta, 34, claims,’ when we mummies were asked to perform to male hero numbers, I was thrilled to be given Mithunda’s number .I have grown up watching ‘auva auva koi yahaan naachey ’and all the gals and guys at college always danced in Mithunda’s style.
The pioneer of the very sexual pelvic thrust in India, Mithunda points out,’ I loved watching Fred Astaire and Elvis Presley .I mixed my own style to theirs to create a unique one. These days, since everybody simply copies and follows western steps, dance has become monotonous, without any distinct style.
Bol baby bol, rock and roll……
Breaking the mould in the 1980’s, as a negative lead in Meri Jung, came Jaaved Jaaferi.Dancer par excellence, he brought trained, clean lines. In a combination made from ballet, jazz, martial arts, side thrusts and body control while refraining from facial expressions.
“Bandra was the place to be in,’ reminisces Jaaferi who also co produces India’s pioneer dance show on television-Boogie Woogie.My brother Naaved and I would watch videos of our favourite-Fred Astaire.Later, Saturday Night Fever and Michael Jackson numbers on VHS were available and very inspirational. Travolta brought the whole disco revolution and pelvic involvement in dance and sexuality in it with,’you should be dancing tonight’. Men started strutting after that. We would practice for hours and go to the discs and perform our thing by adding our own steps to memorized moves.”
Govinda aala re aala………
Chichi, as he is fondly called, means ‘little finger’ in Punjabi, but this ‘Virar ka chora’ turned out to be a big package. Inspired by Travolta, he made a VHS of himself, showing his groovy dance styles and circulated it to producers. When given a chance, his movies and moves made the upper stall go hopping haywire.
“I did not like the idea of sitting outside offices for long hours, dwindling my thumbs and making small talk.I concentrated on what would make me stand out from the others. My gurus Raam masterji, Saroj Khanji taught me well.I tried my best to please them. Worked hard to improve on what I was taught.Shammiji is my most favourite Bollywood dancer, rare is the ‘umda noor’ (superb illumination) that he had, amongst the industry.”
Stalwart Saroj Khan smiles as she talks about Govinda ,”When one enjoys dancing, it comes out in the pure form.Govinda has that quality ,where people who watch him ,feel like getting up to dance as well. No one can beat his expressions and timing.”
Kaho naa pyaar hai……….
Known to be the perfectionist when it comes to dance moves and grooves, Hrithik Roshan is the universal favourite.Since his debut, his Hotstepping moves are on the hot list of every dancer worth his grooves.
Famed choreographer, Terence Lewis points out,’Hrithik is the rare star who dances better than the chorographer. He takes a simple step to the next level and turns it to poetry in motion. There is such precision and clarity in his moves there is no confusion or awkwardness, however difficult the step. Generally it’s difficult for people with long limbs to dance so gracefully, he is an Ace.”
Yogen Bhagat, 35, Director of Bollywood Step Dance, in Los Angeles, U.S.A. notes,’Hrithik has a very strong connect with the audience. All our students want to learn to dance like him. While working with him for his moves, for the ‘Heartthrobs ‘world tour, I learnt how hard he works, giving more than a 100 %.There was a time when Indians learnt from foreign artists. Now, Hollywood wants to learn from Bollywood.”
Ba ba ba bhangra se le ke pop tak…….
A protégée of the Shiamak Dawer dance institute, his story reads like what every dancers dream would .First seen on screen as a background dancer to Aishwariya Rai in Taal and Karisma Kapoor in Dil Toh Pagal Hai. Shahid Kapoor’s dream debut in Ken Ghosh’s Ishq Vishk Pyaar Vyaar not only won him critical acclaim but also the Filmfare best debutante award. Besides, the film was a perfect showcase for him to show his talent at dance.
It’s Dil Bole Haddippa, from bhangra beats in Jab We Met, freestyling in Kaminey, Fancy footwork in Kismet Connection, or the recently released ‘Chance pe Dance’, Shahid’s skills are in his smooth serenades and he never fails to impress with the same.
All lead choreographers from Saroj Khan to Ahmed Khan agree that he is very sound in technique.
Popular choreographer for male leads in Bollywood, Ceaser of the Bosco Ceaser team couldn’t agree more.”Shahid is an excellent, fabulous and perfect dancer. He is very versatile and can do full justice to any kind of dance. He has no hassles and moves freely. He is smooth with traditional steps as well as modern technique. Since his core is very strong, be it B boying, krumping, pop and lock, he can synchronize it all to perfection and make it look great on screen.Definatley ,the dancing super star ”
PAPA KEHTEY HAI-
Bachna ae haseeno-The charming Rishi Kapoor had girls going crazy with his moves in movies that had foot tapping chartbusters; popular with the youth.Son Ranbir Kapoor has inherited lineage of Kapoor showmen with superb sense of rhythm and timing.
Kajrarey Kajrarey-From the bulb lit bodysuit in Yaraana to Auro’s infectious prance, from fun loving hip hop in Bluff Master and ‘Rock n roll soniye’, to perfect comic timing in Bunty and Bubli, the AB duo is hard to beat.
Hai muscular,hai popular…….but Pappu cant ….Dharampaji with all his good looks and kind nature, failed to over come two left feet as did son Sunny Deol, who would rather break limbs than the dance floor.
Box-2
Jaaved Jaaferi’s Jukebox-
TOP 5 Hollywood Song n dance numbers-
1. Singing in the rain make em laugh Donald O Conner-funny
2. Blue Skies Putting on the Ritz Fred Astaire.-classy
3. Moonwalker Smooth Criminal Michael Jackson.-trendy
4. West side story Cool Group dancing.-best group number
5. Singing in the rain Singing in the rain Gene Kelly.-best baarish number ever.
Jaaved Jaaferi’s Jukebox
Top 5 Bollywood song n dance numbers-
1. Teesri Manzil O haseena zolfonwali Shammi Kapoor.
2. Hum kisise kum nahi Competition medley Rishi Kapoor.
3. Chik puk chikpuk and Muqabla Prabhudeva.
4. Jis desh mein Ganga rehta hai, Prem jaal mein phans gaya mein toh, Govinda.
5. Lakshya Mein aisa kyun hoon? Hrithik.
Vaibhavi’s Merchandise (Ms.Merchant’s comments on the hot steppers)
Amitabh Bachhan-Abundance of talent, great sense of music, extremely gifted.
Shah Rukh Khan-Overcame his drawbacks as dancer via hard work and immense energy.
Hrithik Roshan-Was very conscious, is very sensitive and emotional feels a call to music, tireless.
Aamir –Application actor, performer. Puts in lots of effort to be the character to bring in that aspect of personality of the role played.
Salman-Really stylish, very lazy, like a baby needs to be pushed. Excellent once he believes in doing it.
Saif Ali Khan-Intelligent metro sexual .Has to mentally prepare to overcome awkwardness, but comes along and delivers.
Shahid Kapoor-Exceptional has come of his own. Very well trained and quick learner. Capable of holding longer beats. Balances face and body language perfectly.
Ranbir Kapoor-Born for the camera, great potential, natural dancer, very talented.
Abhishek Bachhan-Brat, wonderful timing, reads the move very well, understands work, trusts his choreographer.
Farhan Akhtar-Very new, very stylish, knows good moves, has come out of his shell.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
