Friday, October 31, 2008
Diwali Greetings
With the world facing the current economic crisis ( unanimously attributed by common man to GREED), there is more 'darkness'. But, too early to panic. Moreso, on the holy, auspicious occassion of the Festival of Lights!
I am writing this after Diwali, as we need to sustain the spirit of Diwali for days, weeks and months... It is our choice !
TAMASOMA JYOTIRGAMAYA... Let us take the first step from darkness to Light. It is the personal choice of each one of us...
Happy Diwali...
I am writing this after Diwali, as we need to sustain the spirit of Diwali for days, weeks and months... It is our choice !
TAMASOMA JYOTIRGAMAYA... Let us take the first step from darkness to Light. It is the personal choice of each one of us...
Happy Diwali...
The Appeal by John Grisham
Finished reading this book. ( I was waiting for the paperback edition:))
John Grisham lives upto his reputation. A very gripping story, which looks so real. The story is definitely reflection of how the system is hijacked by a few to their own benefit. 'Krane Chemicals' is only an example. Ultimately each one of us contribute to the creation of such monsters around us. Author did not give a "happy ending", perhaps to make us think and act.
PS: Though very thought provoking, purely from the reading joy, I would not rate this book among the best of his books. Grisham still remains one of my favourite authors
John Grisham lives upto his reputation. A very gripping story, which looks so real. The story is definitely reflection of how the system is hijacked by a few to their own benefit. 'Krane Chemicals' is only an example. Ultimately each one of us contribute to the creation of such monsters around us. Author did not give a "happy ending", perhaps to make us think and act.
PS: Though very thought provoking, purely from the reading joy, I would not rate this book among the best of his books. Grisham still remains one of my favourite authors
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Mutual Fund
I GOT A MAIL from one of the mutual fund houses... a big brand of international pedigree. I, the financial advisor of my mother, had gone by the reco of my financial advisor & few cross checks among friends later, opted to invest in this fund.
I saw the attachment to the mail. SO, straight away went to same to check the NPV. After almost a year, I am shocked to see the NPV fall below the investment figure. I feel responsible for the same. I do feel guilty...
What irritates me is the mail has the routine covering letter... specifies 'PLEASED TO ENCLOSE THE INVESTMENT SUMMARY...' !! :)
I saw the attachment to the mail. SO, straight away went to same to check the NPV. After almost a year, I am shocked to see the NPV fall below the investment figure. I feel responsible for the same. I do feel guilty...
What irritates me is the mail has the routine covering letter... specifies 'PLEASED TO ENCLOSE THE INVESTMENT SUMMARY...' !! :)
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Kite Runner
Kite Runner by Khalid Hosseini
This is one book, which was part of my list for quite sometime. When I started reading, I got hooked. Very few books have got me so hooked...
It captures the struggle of a country in strife. Author narrates the contemperory history of Afghanishan thru the lives of two children and the world around them... both in early childhood and subsequently when they grow up. The author keeps highlighting the negative part of the main character's personality.
An entire generation seem to be losing out on their childhood... Quite a moving story... Strongly recommended.
This is one book, which was part of my list for quite sometime. When I started reading, I got hooked. Very few books have got me so hooked...
It captures the struggle of a country in strife. Author narrates the contemperory history of Afghanishan thru the lives of two children and the world around them... both in early childhood and subsequently when they grow up. The author keeps highlighting the negative part of the main character's personality.
An entire generation seem to be losing out on their childhood... Quite a moving story... Strongly recommended.
How to handle the Credit Cruch ?
The Chinese CURSE just got more relevant : MAY YOU LIVE IN INTERESTING TIMES ! Things could not have got more interesting !
GE's Immelt says, 'he is paranoid' ! That coming from the head of GE, is surprising. While the politicians and the beaurocracy around them try to figure out a way out of this universal financial mess. . . I do not have much of a hope.
Stories of personal losses are slowly coming in the media. And people say, this is just the beginning !!
Time to stay cool... Handle the crisis bravely. Focus on improving skill sets. And, do not forget to MEDITATE
GE's Immelt says, 'he is paranoid' ! That coming from the head of GE, is surprising. While the politicians and the beaurocracy around them try to figure out a way out of this universal financial mess. . . I do not have much of a hope.
Stories of personal losses are slowly coming in the media. And people say, this is just the beginning !!
Time to stay cool... Handle the crisis bravely. Focus on improving skill sets. And, do not forget to MEDITATE
Sachin Tendulkar climbs the summit
Sachin reached the pinnacle of test cricket, at Mohali.
Success is about turning stones into milestones… he said this evening, while addressing the press. Indeed… I am delighted. I am happy I could watch the last lap of ‘his journey’.
Harsha Bogle and Ajay Jadeja were at their best in the program anchored by Sonali.
Krish Srikant reiterated how he has remained the same young cricketer he was 19 yrs ago. Along with his cricket-performances, it is this character that endears Sachin to his million fans.
His performance at the crease is supposed to influence the moods of his fans across India and abroad. Harsha went a step further. Just as Sir Bradman was there to inspire the people while they suffered during Great Depression, Sachin’s performances would be like summer showers in present economic scenario, affected by the current eco crisis.
I fully agree with Ajay when he say, ‘Sachin was not under pressure for targets, like bankers’. How true J ! Only a banker, in today’s economic scenario can fully understand !!
Little Master stands tall, full of humility and character, among cricketers of past and present.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Blog Action Day 08
Gandhiji said this world has enough for the needs of its population, not for its greed...
Many experts, mostly common man, today's financial crisis is the result of the greed of players in financial arena....
A crisis in any area of our lives first hit the common man, the poorest. There is so much poverty and suffering in the world. This needs the attention of every one of us
http://blogactionday.org/js/e36945634f181e2602517f2a3ef9d8500c0c7ab9
Poverty
Many experts, mostly common man, today's financial crisis is the result of the greed of players in financial arena....
A crisis in any area of our lives first hit the common man, the poorest. There is so much poverty and suffering in the world. This needs the attention of every one of us
http://blogactionday.org/js/e36945634f181e2602517f2a3ef9d8500c0c7ab9
Poverty
Jet Airways reinstates employees
Jet Airways is one of the brands I always admired... Not only me, some friends also.
We were happy to move from blue to silver to Gold and finally platinum. Not as a status symbol, but we all genuinely appreciated their quality of service. There were occassions when I felt if their attitude bordered on 'artificial and snobbish' levels. But overall, this brand always delivered quality, consistently. I felt they always had a great team, at all levels and at all customer touch points.
In my previous job, I had the opportunity to interact with some senior managers. I always enjoyed walking into their office at Andheri and interact with them. Later, the contract became a key acquisition and a prestigious account, obviously.
I was surprised to hear about their decision to sack their staff en-masse. Were they under so much of financial stress to take such a decision ? That too, quite 'unprofessional', from a corporate angle. The politicians were quick to interfere. But, I was more surprised to hear 'the emotional decision' of Mr Goyal, to reinstate every one of them. Was it under political pressure ?
Let us hope, 'the best Indian airline 2008", and one of India's best brands tide over this crisis and come out in their true style
We were happy to move from blue to silver to Gold and finally platinum. Not as a status symbol, but we all genuinely appreciated their quality of service. There were occassions when I felt if their attitude bordered on 'artificial and snobbish' levels. But overall, this brand always delivered quality, consistently. I felt they always had a great team, at all levels and at all customer touch points.
In my previous job, I had the opportunity to interact with some senior managers. I always enjoyed walking into their office at Andheri and interact with them. Later, the contract became a key acquisition and a prestigious account, obviously.
I was surprised to hear about their decision to sack their staff en-masse. Were they under so much of financial stress to take such a decision ? That too, quite 'unprofessional', from a corporate angle. The politicians were quick to interfere. But, I was more surprised to hear 'the emotional decision' of Mr Goyal, to reinstate every one of them. Was it under political pressure ?
Let us hope, 'the best Indian airline 2008", and one of India's best brands tide over this crisis and come out in their true style
Booker for Aravind Adiga
Aravind Adiga has won the prestigious Man Booker award for his The White Tiger.
Michael Portillo, chairman of judges, said the book was an impressive work…’in many ways perfect. It is quite difficult to find any structural flaws with it’.
It is supposed to be about a protagonist who uses any means to fulfill his dream of escaping his village life for success in big city. He is also being criticized for painting a negative picture of modern India and its huge underclass.
I have not read it. Will grab copy right away… (Standby for update !)
At 34, he was the youngest finalist. It was his first novel. Cool… That is very inspiring for lot of people (yours truly included) who dream of writing a book themselves!
What does it take to do A PERFECT JOB ? A perfect job, whatever be the area, is divine... or worthy of Divine Offering !
Friday, September 12, 2008
New IPod Nano
Apple has done it again. They have unveiled
Ø the new models, with “shake control technology”
Ø new media player for PC, iTunes8
Ø Nano has Apple’s genius technology which automatically creates play lists from songs in the music library
Ø I Phone feature, ‘accelerometer’ technology extended to Nano. (Adjusts screens to how the devises are held and lets people shuffle music with ‘a shake’!)
Upgraded, slimmer Touch, with built in speaker (Now I am going to regret this. I now own an outdated Touch, though acquired not very long back L. I always it could have been lighter and should have provided a built in speaker, for that size! )
True to the reputation of Apple to keep continuously improving on their IPod. Apart from the new features, the new Nano is made with toxin-free components and is made of recyclable aluminium and glass. Great !
Ø the new models, with “shake control technology”
Ø new media player for PC, iTunes8
Ø Nano has Apple’s genius technology which automatically creates play lists from songs in the music library
Ø I Phone feature, ‘accelerometer’ technology extended to Nano. (Adjusts screens to how the devises are held and lets people shuffle music with ‘a shake’!)
Upgraded, slimmer Touch, with built in speaker (Now I am going to regret this. I now own an outdated Touch, though acquired not very long back L. I always it could have been lighter and should have provided a built in speaker, for that size! )
True to the reputation of Apple to keep continuously improving on their IPod. Apart from the new features, the new Nano is made with toxin-free components and is made of recyclable aluminium and glass. Great !
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Happy Onam
Onam greetings to all...
Onam, though a Hindu festival, is a festival for all and celebrated by all in Kerala and beyond( true to the spirit of hinduism, Sanathana Dharma)
This is celebrated to welcome King Mahabali, who visits Kerala, his erstwhile Kingdom, thanks to a boon bestowed by Lord Vishnu in His Vamana-avthaar. When King Mahabali ruled there was equality, purity and happiness. Something, we terribly miss today.
To bring back the true spirit of Onam is the need of the hour, and our individual responsibility. Samastha Loka Sukhino Bhavanthu...
Onam, though a Hindu festival, is a festival for all and celebrated by all in Kerala and beyond( true to the spirit of hinduism, Sanathana Dharma)
This is celebrated to welcome King Mahabali, who visits Kerala, his erstwhile Kingdom, thanks to a boon bestowed by Lord Vishnu in His Vamana-avthaar. When King Mahabali ruled there was equality, purity and happiness. Something, we terribly miss today.
To bring back the true spirit of Onam is the need of the hour, and our individual responsibility. Samastha Loka Sukhino Bhavanthu...
Friday, September 05, 2008
5 Oct 08
Took off on time, thanks to almost an empty airport, being off season.
Sudha Murthy's book, Gently Falls The Bakula , kept me glued to the same and did not realize as time 'fly by' too. Occassionally, I looked outside. As we took off, it was desert, with different patches of landscape. Lateron, it was just sand all over ! After sometime, it was the grandeur of the sea ! ( The grandeur of desert landscape, sea... is almost Divine !)
As we came closer to India, it was raining outside. Thankfully, it was just overcast when we hit Mumbai... !
Mumbai's slums always made me feel sad. But this time, the city, esp areas which have slums had a blue-tint. Lot of these dwellings have blue plastic sheet on the roof, to protect from rains. That is spirit of Mumbai, they handle the problem in hand and just MOVE ON !
The airport has got more than a facelift. But, the quality of service, lot of scope to improve. As we drove into the city, taxi guy warned me of some traffic jams. I realized, I would hit the highway just in time to catch the office-crowd, returning home after a tough day. To add to it, it was first ( 1.5 day) Ganesh Visarjan. Not much traffic though, but got few glimpses of Ganesha procession, with its music and dance. Indeed, it is auspicious to be around when Mumbai celebrates its favourite festival...
It is great to be back HOME ! :)
Sudha Murthy's book, Gently Falls The Bakula , kept me glued to the same and did not realize as time 'fly by' too. Occassionally, I looked outside. As we took off, it was desert, with different patches of landscape. Lateron, it was just sand all over ! After sometime, it was the grandeur of the sea ! ( The grandeur of desert landscape, sea... is almost Divine !)
As we came closer to India, it was raining outside. Thankfully, it was just overcast when we hit Mumbai... !
Mumbai's slums always made me feel sad. But this time, the city, esp areas which have slums had a blue-tint. Lot of these dwellings have blue plastic sheet on the roof, to protect from rains. That is spirit of Mumbai, they handle the problem in hand and just MOVE ON !
The airport has got more than a facelift. But, the quality of service, lot of scope to improve. As we drove into the city, taxi guy warned me of some traffic jams. I realized, I would hit the highway just in time to catch the office-crowd, returning home after a tough day. To add to it, it was first ( 1.5 day) Ganesh Visarjan. Not much traffic though, but got few glimpses of Ganesha procession, with its music and dance. Indeed, it is auspicious to be around when Mumbai celebrates its favourite festival...
It is great to be back HOME ! :)
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Dhoni for test captaincy
Going by the press reports, a case is slowly getting built up for MSD as test captain. Gary Kirsten's interview to NDtv is the latest, though he confirms Anil Kumble is doing 'a great job'.
MSD is a good cricketer and a good leader. But, test captaincy is a much bigger challenge. MSD needs to pick up the nuances of test-captaincy from the seniors in the team, full of ex-test-captains !!! MSD has exhibited this learning aptitute and also the humility, apart from the skills. We will be unfair to MSD by putting on him the responsibility of same, immediately. Couple of years later, as and when Anil retires, would be the right time.
PS. The final ODI loss to Sri Lanka was almost as humiliating as the test series. What we want is the consistency of Australians, not even of Kirsten's home team (after their white-wash by British team)
MSD is a good cricketer and a good leader. But, test captaincy is a much bigger challenge. MSD needs to pick up the nuances of test-captaincy from the seniors in the team, full of ex-test-captains !!! MSD has exhibited this learning aptitute and also the humility, apart from the skills. We will be unfair to MSD by putting on him the responsibility of same, immediately. Couple of years later, as and when Anil retires, would be the right time.
PS. The final ODI loss to Sri Lanka was almost as humiliating as the test series. What we want is the consistency of Australians, not even of Kirsten's home team (after their white-wash by British team)
Friday, August 29, 2008
We too need A CHANGE
Just look around :
- Floods in Bihar – a natural calamity or a man-made catastrophe for being irresponsible to our environment ?
- Jammu and Kashmir – the state hit a new low
- Communal violence in Orissa
- Tata Nano project is a project of international relevance. It may our own ‘Ford T model’. But politicians will not allow the project to go beyond personal egos and look at common good.
- There are other pockets of problems, such as the sign-board issue raised in Mumbai, etc. !!
What is the root cause ? I think it is failure of our Political Leadership.
Whose fault ? Our fault. We were irresponsible ; else incompetent politicians would not have been our leaders.
Solution ? this is not easy. We need to be responsible. Need to feel empowered. Need to wholeheartedly accept Gandhian values such as non-violence, Satyagraha.. BE proactive.
We can not wait for next election ( panchayat/municipal/state/national) to punish one set of politicians to be replaced with another set in their musical chairs.
Camel Race in Jordan
Camel in Middle East is more than a mere animal.
This animal is so much an integral part of desert life.
Among other things, camel used to the main source of transportation, till cars entered the scene.Check out the link for info on Camel race in Jordan, ME
http://www.arabianbusiness.com/index2.php?option=com_gallery&id=528709&img=0&mment=p
This animal is so much an integral part of desert life.
Among other things, camel used to the main source of transportation, till cars entered the scene.Check out the link for info on Camel race in Jordan, ME
http://www.arabianbusiness.com/index2.php?option=com_gallery&id=528709&img=0&mment=p
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Let us live frugally
The author has defined frugality as
•Acquiring goods and services in a restrained manner.
•Resourcefully using already owned economic goods and services, to achieve a longer term goal.
We can still live well, but yet be frugal
Master calls it CEILING ON DESIRES... we owe it to this world, to our future generations and to ourselves
For the full article: http://www.thenational.ae/article/20080821/OPINION/619066641/1080
•Acquiring goods and services in a restrained manner.
•Resourcefully using already owned economic goods and services, to achieve a longer term goal.
We can still live well, but yet be frugal
Master calls it CEILING ON DESIRES... we owe it to this world, to our future generations and to ourselves
For the full article: http://www.thenational.ae/article/20080821/OPINION/619066641/1080
Olympics trivia
McDonalds in China
Ø Has focused on the traditional menu
Ø Offer Corn Cup with Happy Meals
Ø Condiments, different, reflecting local spices
Ø Focussed on traditional menu, emphasizing on beef, as beef is a luxury to many in china, and suggest success and virility !!!
A city in USA is planning to ban setting up new fast food joint.
World has tried to reduce the number of smokers through persuasion, but failed miserably.
Mac went ahead with aggressive promos, trying to get more customers and increasing consumption from existing customers :)
It is our choice - to eat or not to eat, junk food !
Ø Has focused on the traditional menu
Ø Offer Corn Cup with Happy Meals
Ø Condiments, different, reflecting local spices
Ø Focussed on traditional menu, emphasizing on beef, as beef is a luxury to many in china, and suggest success and virility !!!
A city in USA is planning to ban setting up new fast food joint.
World has tried to reduce the number of smokers through persuasion, but failed miserably.
Mac went ahead with aggressive promos, trying to get more customers and increasing consumption from existing customers :)
It is our choice - to eat or not to eat, junk food !
London 'School of Life'
The Maser says EDUCATION IS FOR LIFE... ( not for living)
We study...end up working and making a life.. but, we forget 'life' or 'art of living'.
Now a group of artists, writers and intellectuals has launched a new "university" in London, to help those too tied up with work to appreciate the finer things in life, like art, books and travel.
We study...end up working and making a life.. but, we forget 'life' or 'art of living'.
Now a group of artists, writers and intellectuals has launched a new "university" in London, to help those too tied up with work to appreciate the finer things in life, like art, books and travel.
- 'a chemistfor the mind' to dispense 'cultural solutions to everyday ailments'
- operates out of a small shop in Bloomsbury, an arty district in central London
- has a large free lance faculty
- will cover subjects such as Life, work, family and politics
- faculty will draw ideas from philosophy, psychoanalysis, literature and art. will try to discover what Plato, Shakesphere, Tolstoy and Freud had to say on compassion, empathy and self life
- also on topics such as importance of punctuality, what books to read, etc.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Relationships
India lost the cricket match. No action at Beijing... Oprah show continue to be relevant.
- Guest spoke about the integrity of her partner, over and above honesty...'her partner oozes integrity', she says !
- She also took the discussion to capture the essence of a relationship: rise to a SPIRITUAL level
A Value System that cuts across all cultures and all relationships...
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