Bhargab's thoughts...

La La Land: A Love Story Bundled Within "It Might Have Been"...

2016-12-18T00:03:00.000+05:30

How good it would have been if every love story would have never had that feeling of "it might have been!" That's all about La La Land! A musical masterpiece which will definitely re-store the power of good cinema!

After a grand first movie in "Whiplash", Damien Chazelle has just raised his own bar miles above with his second musical drama venture! I salute this young 31 year old Director to bring back the good old classical musical romantic drama back to the screen. It has been real long years since we last saw "Grease", another classic in 70's. Thank You Mr. Chazelle.

Now, coming to the movie. I do not know where to start with. Anyone who loves to dream, who loves to feel the good old way of romance, the feelings, the movements, the steps, the touches...just go watch this movie. Story is definitely not out of the ordinary, but a real innocent one. Two struggling aspiring persons, one with his passion with Jazz music (Ryan Gosling), the other is aspiring to be an actress (Emma Stone) happened to meet in the city of stars- Los Angeles. Fate brought them together, fate let them love together and fate gave them success as well. But, did it give them the life way they would have wanted to be! That is what has made this movie a league apart in these genre. The entire theme is- Do we need one love of a life time or do we need success or both? This movie so beautifully portrays all the feelings around these words- if "It Might Have Been"... But in the end, an unconquered love remains a love of a lifetime conquering the unconquered! The last ending 10 minutes of musical sequence just brilliantly summarize this entire thought like a poem on live! This will leave you spellbound in the end, and I bet, you will think a lot after getting out of the cinema hall.Terrific!!!

Coming to the technical details. Movie started with a brilliant musical sequence, setting the tone for the rest. The levels of detailing in the movie- screenplay, cinematography, the light, the music, those minute expressions are simply superb. All these have made this one like a dreamy poetic experience. I have been a great fan of Ryan Gosling always. His previous movies- Blue Valentine, The Place Beyond the Pines, Notebook, Lars and The Real Girl, etc all were epic performances. He has not disappointed here at all. But, to me- it was Emma Stone who simply outshone Ryan in her performance. I feel after Birdman, this movie will definitely put a stamp on her as the most promising actor in coming days. Brilliant acting.

Music- well Justin Hurwitz, like his director, has just raised his own bar after his work in Whiplash. The good old Jazz is back, with flavor of eternal love. Salute.

I am sure this one will win many Oscar this time around. There is no flaw in this movie, its an experience of a kind.

My rating- 5 out of 5!

The White Night

2015-11-26T22:53:00.001+05:30

It was a quiet long white night,
Then the moon turned blood red,
The stars started to run far away.

Mystical void filled the silent song.

The old thorn was waiting alone,
Holding on the numb cold rail.
She asked for one last glance,
Before the night ends,
For the love she once discarded,
She'd dreamt to redeem the bygone,
Through her final breathe.

The downtown train was waiting,
For the last passenger to ferry,
The hooter broke the night's silence,
The lover stood aground long,
With a pause to adore her final wish,

Time was extending tomorrow’ shoulder,
With a step ahead into the waiting train!

The Crossroad's Song!

2015-03-19T00:44:00.003+05:30

When the time runs fast and high,

When the end boards the last train,

The new hides beneath tomorrow’s shy,

The old soaks in today’s ponderous rain!

When the yesteryears become a void,

When the yesterday is a page in history,

The dawn wishes morning’s kiss to avoid,

The night embraces dark’s averse affinity!

But, the dream stands tall amidst the ravage,

The hope reappears for a life to engage,

The love’s belief grows strong,

Waiting on a crossroad’s song!

In Search of the Promise Land

2014-10-10T01:32:00.001+05:30

The beginning of a new day today for a freedom,

I could see through the eyes of a newborn,

For a search of the promise land still to fathom,

For that moment of glory destined to be reborn!

Behind the horizon where I lived resided the thoughts,

Waiting and engulfing excitements of every passing night,

So astray yet bounded by the love so hard fought,

With the delusion of feeling her presence in every sight!

Beyond the horizon they say lives the promise land,

That I could feel from the smell of the newborn,

Painting the hopes so bountiful- the dreams so grand,

For I wish to hold that hand from the waiting unicorn!

Tonight, I start the ride in search of my promise land!

Tonight, the newborn crawls towards his promise land!

The Mother and Her Daughter

2014-09-09T22:23:00.000+05:30

Sitting beside the window waiting for the last rain drop’s fall,

She lets her cigar to leave the trail of her soul’s ego,

She smiles that carries thousand sorrows built with holy blessings,

She kisses her daughter with the hopes unbounded for!

As memories gone by and dreams broken away,

She builds her daughter’s tomorrow giving her every today,

She teaches her no pain no emotion imbuing the world of grey,

Guarding her daughter from a childhood she treasures every day!

But, there lives a soul so tender inside the shell so firm,

That, she prays the time to cease its seconds for few moments,

For she wants to shed a tear when the world is forgotten,

As her daughter sleeps on her lap redefining the innocence so divine!

Awakes her daughter at the drop her tear of countless years,

Smiles her daughter and says, “Mama, we will grow old together for years!”

PS: Inspired from a real life story, dedicated to the little daughter for being the strength of her mother.

The Curtain Down!

2014-09-04T23:52:00.001+05:30

The moment has arrived when the curtain fell down,

First ladder to the fool’s paradise has just broken,

He raises a toast for the elusive peace has reborn,

On the day when the curtain has fell down.

The moment of her leaving by his side draws the scar,

That no warmth and no love could heal ever,

He knows for sure how much so ever wish her to hold for,

Alas! His hands are weakened when the moment of truth has arrived.

But, shadows of the lost paradise haunt him now at nights,

His blood freezes, his heart trembles with fright,

He sees the plumes of smoke behind the fallen curtain,

Merging with the smell of sorrow for the promise broken.

He asks the flying gale of the lost love and devotion,

An arrogant hush only he hears as the reflection,

Then he wakes up to sound of drums and opens the curtain,

Only to witness the battling light of hope at the distant dawn.

In Search of His Soul.

2014-08-10T01:48:00.001+05:30

Life beyond her desires finds him standing amidst a nowhere,

The bright clouds of faith are shadowed by mistrust intents,

The boat he sailed now stalls without the steer,

Struggles he against the wind of change only to relent.

He glimpses him at the strike of the thunderous lightening,

Standing with naked emotions in that deserted islet,

As the first beam of the dawn falls upon the land uncovering,

Identifies he the soul so own only to turn into a midget.

Runs he hard towards her bestowed emotions disappeared in the oblivion,

Following the trails of those black bloods however may be in zillion.

Rejects he to embrace the new soul so filled with disdain,

Preparing for a new life in search of his old soul to regain.

The Conflicting Desire

2014-07-16T01:26:00.000+05:30

The old chronicles have just become older,

To write a tale of the ancient love of apart or together,

The part of my soul becomes the shadow left forever,

The endless act of forgiving paints the heart with a never,

For you to become an image to be remembered forever!

The ashes leave the trail through the woods of gloom,

The Knight of the nights directs the dark blood towards the moon,

As the guilt of their conscience surrenders to the filthy desire,

The Goddess of love hollers for the freedom with despair,

For I to decide to hold her hand heeding my heart’s aspire!

I march ahead undraping the cloak of darkness seems so long,

And, I hear you behind at an infinite distance singing the phoenix song!

Some Random Thoughts...Night Past Time.

2014-06-03T22:38:00.000+05:30

The melody you bring awakens the loner's destitute thoughts,

Like the Phoenix song re-filling the heart dethroning the drought,

The words you say render the hope to the fading life,

The smell of your skin revives the eternal breathe to the dead for another day to thrive!

Arrogance of the night challenges the sheen of the moon,

Thunder of the cloud questions the existence of the sun,

The bloodshed of the brotherhood leaves no soul to groom,

But howling dark wolves carry our love as along we run!

When death abhors life through the last breathe,

Mind adores the dark void through the ending ray of hope,

Soul sets up for the journey to the land far beyond,

Raising a dawn of pure love towards the nirvanic reckon.

Light of deaths awaits for a new life,

Melody of her scream demands for a new song,

Wings those clipped dreams for the high black sky,

Then the woods her last hope mutates to dark and shy!

The Untied Reincarnation

2014-02-26T00:23:00.001+05:30

The bondage she carried suddenly shows her a ray,

As kisses her stride the sibylline road on a sunny today,

Mesmerizes her sight with a will to defy,

The world so new she’s never felt to identify.

Looks she back to peek the eye ever following,

(That) pierces her soul reminding those moments of undressing,

Looks she down to feel that chain so strong,

(That) immures her dreams defining all wrong.

Then happens the miracle deep inside her quintessence,

Through the demystified knowledge leading the resurgence,

Through the twirls of the road revealing new vivid hope,

She sees her intrepid soul flying like a dove.

Her moment has arrived to commandeer her expedition,

Re-defining the history through the untied reincarnation.

HIGHWAY: Far From the Reality, Yet A Good Execution

2014-02-25T01:58:00.001+05:30

My take on a movie after a prolonged gap!

Lets start with the story first. There are two perspectives two feel the story of Highway. Let me explain the both. Rich girl Veera got kidnapped accidentally by a gang of petty criminals led by Mahaveer. After initial trouble, as they went on various places to hide, Veera the girl always confined under protection of elite manners, suddenly started loving her newly found freedom through her experiences through the travel in highways. Along the way, Mahaveer started enjoying her company and tried his best to be with her, took her to the hill above to a house of her dream, to make her feel happy, to make her feel her dreams a little more, but with a question- will this last forever!!! Eventually, reality struck. However, this time Veera refused to obey the life she was taught. This is the story in short. Definitely a story far from reality. Hence, a big no movie for most of us. But, if you want a realistic story out of this movie, my basic question would be- why such movie to be made!

Lets take the other perspective. To feel the story from this perspective you will have to get into the characters of the protagonists Veera and Mahaveer. A girl, born and brought up within the boundaries of high elite societal norms with restrictions unknown, with manners unclear to her, with a childhood filled with troubled memories, never knew how to feel the sense of freedom, a break free life without her fears. Through a sudden act of accidental kidnap, she started discovering her inner soul's desire to break free from all those restrictions. She started enjoying her life free from all worries, all past wrong incidents, free from her fears for the unknown future. Along the way, she started discovering her kidnapper Mahaveer's pains, originated from his childhood experience of his mother's miseries. Veera taught him to enjoy his life too like a free bird, or to say from other perspective, Mahaveer started learning from Veera along the way to break free from his worries, his fears. He started feeling his happiness through Veera's every small new experiences with her life by fulfilling her desires. Eventually, he took her to the hill above and helped her build her dream home and learnt finally to face his fears for good! If we can feel this movie from this perspective, it reminds us an important aspect of life- unless you are ready to forget your fears, your worries, you will never be able to break free. Choice is yours. We are so engrossed with our worries, our fears, our responsibilities towards everything around us, that we can not dare even to dream to break free.Thus, we always prefer to be in a real world, we always prefer to watch a realistic movie. Hence, we feel this movie to be a big failure in execution. However, I enjoyed Highway from the second perspective.

Coming to the screenplay. Although, Imtiaz Ali tries to portray the story line through an attempt of poetic justice, I felt the screenplay was a bit lethargic at times in terms of carrying and developing the emotional chord in a continuous manner. But at the same time, there are some brilliant scenes especially those two- when Veera enjoys the resistance of that stone amidst the fast flowing river; and when Mahaveer displays his emotions- his pain and happiness at the same time while watching Veera arranging her home of dream. These two were brilliantly executed shots I must say.

Coming to acting skills. I strongly believe Highway will definitely showcase the leap of evolution of Alia Bhat as the actress! What a terrific performance by her! Even if you do not like the story, you can still enjoy her acting. A commanding performance.

Background score- I really enjoyed Pataka Guddi from the great Rahman. Overall, the background score carries the typical Rahman's signature. However, I will not rate it as extraordinary one, definitely enjoyable.

In short, I will rate Highway 7 in the scale of 10, with a disclaimer- if you are too much concerned about the logicality of the story, then you will not enjoy Highway!

The Death Sonnet

2013-07-22T00:00:00.001+05:30

The kiss he longs for- cuddles (him) in the final day,

Feels he a warmth through the blood so frozen,

The beam elucidates the dark making (him) a way,

Looks he past towards that life- so brazen.

Ceases the time its flow when you appear,

Opens he eyes to enfold a new beginning,

Oh! Thou bliss him whispering in a deluded ear,

Breathes he again (but) for a life so drooping.

Amidst the peace hears he those cries,

Reminding him of those sinful deeds,

The light so bright (soon) slowly returns its dyes,

As the dark engulfs despite (his) kneeled pleads.

He wishes for her presence to thwart your existence,

He wishes for a life with the loving quintessence.

The Thunder

2013-04-03T01:06:00.001+05:30

Jolt you down with the conceit so sheer,

To tear the dark into million pieces,

Thunder you loud that bring the fear,

To resonant her name from those distant ridges.

Roar you high with the lights that timid,

To fill the hush with songs those harmonize,

Flash you back rendering the memory so vivid,

To portray her through glimpses I (only) cognize.

Descends the bolt strong as I march home,

Kneel those trees biding me the goodbye,

Smash those leafs the hurdle to roam,

You swell her existence with a thundering cry.

Awake you the dark knight from the sleep so profound,

Arise you her genesis again tonight- I astound.

The Song of Silence

2013-03-25T00:15:00.000+05:30

Silence that chord with the melody that unsung,

Hounds the solitude through the galloping mustang,

Finds he the light as the dark opens its eye,

Reminds him her presence (that’s) so pristine and shy!

Follows he the aroma he knows so distinct,

Meanders he with a wonder- “Should I quest my instinct!”

Then pictures he her standing there alone and gleaming,

But agnizes he the mirage as (her) scarf enwraps him kissing.

Whisper the stars to show him the way,

There appears the dawn far beyond as he turns away,

Smiles he loud knowing the desire that remains,

Walks he forth savoring the vigor that regains.

Moves he near the light, feels he the heart lighter,

Moves he afar the dark, (but) feels he the heart heavier!

Obliteration of a Guilty Soul

2013-03-12T00:02:00.001+05:30

Standing there she stares with the protracted glare,

Turns she his eyes dark and red with emotion carrying a bare,

Launches she the lethality that’s so vile and dare,

Asks he to himself- Is it the beginning or just a flare!

He closes his eyes with a wishful of prayer,

Hoping for the day when ‘He’ will spare,

From the agony and the guilt that’s so despair,

For a chance, the only chance he desires.

Alas! Her youthful soul he harmed so deep,

Garners the force that propels through his closed eyelid,

Lights his nights with the memories that so dark yet vivid,

“Help me!”- cries he loud alone for that eternal relief!

Forgets he the count for nights that passes without peace,

Wondering he stares at her- what remains to teach?

As he remembers the cruelties he unleashed,

No less than the darkest shadows would make him relish.

As the days turn to nights and again to days,

Descends she down intensifying his guilt to hay,

To free her world from the heart that’s so foul,

To accomplish her obliteration of a guilty soul.

Note: Imagining a victim's revenge- afterthought from Ram Singh's "suicide"

Barfi !!!!! A Treat to Watch!

2012-09-16T00:17:00.001+05:30

Has Bollywood come to the level of Hollywood?? Well, perhaps slowly we are getting to see some quality movies here and Barfi definitely gives a stepping stone towards this climb. It has proved two things- firstly, movies can be made without our typical commercial formula with enough entertainment and secondly, Bollywood does have a master story teller in Anurag Bsu. Yes, although the overall story line is simplistic, it has been told in a beautiful style. I loved the smooth transition with the time periods. The story somewhat goes this way. Deaf and dumb Ranbir fell in love the girl next door Illiana and wished to marry. However, like any typical upper middle class family, she could not carry the courage to carry out this love. Illiana got married to her choice of a young and rich guy she met in the college long time back. Time passed by. In the mean time, Priyanka who is a victim of a form of autism returned to her grandfather's place who was in his dying stage. Due to various turn of events, Ranbir had to stay with Priyanka and finally fell in love. Six year since passed by and suddenly it was found that Priyanka was killed due to an unfortunate circumstance and his old love Illiana came to stay with him realizing her love for him. But, soon Ranbir realized out of his interactions with Priyanka over the years that she might not be dead. I am stopping it here from further disclose as it is better if people actually watch the movie till climax the way it has been told. As I mentioned, the story is a simple one, but the treatment is what made it different and unique.

Speaking about the performance, although people are in general ga ga about Ranbir, it was actually Priyanka Chopra who gave a stellar of performance. There is no doubt that Ranbir is the real star attraction, and equally I must say that he ha performed extremely well; however Priyanka's role was exceptional throughout. Depicting a form of autism (mind you, there are many forms of this), she was brilliantly successful in portraying the role. The significance of this role is that if one gives slightly over or under act (performance), it would have been a disaster. But she was brilliant!! Equally good was Illiana's performance too.

Regarding Ranbir, really he has come to an age now where he can sure establish a new trend in Bollywood, keeping aside the Khans (However, I don't consider Salman among Khan's trend though he has been giving some "hits" of late) In Barfi, although many of his acts are hugely inspired from some of Chaplin' and Raj Kapur's old charms (also, I can include Rowan Atkinson from Mr Bean), at the same time, Ranbir is successful in showing his own flavor along the way. The next superstar of Bollywood, no doubt!

Barfi has some real good background scores. I wonder how Mr Pritam could create such music this time without "inspiration" (if anyone can point out the source I will welcome here :-) ). The background score has played a tremendous role in scripting an engrossing environment throughout. The title song from Mohit Chauhan and the one from our own Papon (Angarag) were really awesome. Lets hope Pritam can create such music in future!

In short, hats off to Anurag Basu!.. He has been a master storyteller and will always be! I must say to all, although this kind of movies are very much common in Hollywood, please go out and watch this one; and encourage!. I don't want to see movies like Ek Tha Tiger making Rs 200 cr, and not by Barfi!

My overall score 4 out of 5.

Kolkata Diary: Part I

2012-05-13T17:00:00.003+05:30

Scene 1: Bargain Shopping

It was a hot Saturday evening. I was waiting outside my wife's office building to receive her. There was this person who was selling tender coconut to thirsty customers as and when they came, however I realized he was not having good business that day. I noticed an interesting way of his business, to some customers he was charging Rs 12 per coconut and to some he was charging only Rs 8. However, most of time he took only Rs 10 after just a round of bargain. Then came a lady getting down from a car. She asked the price. To my surprise, the seller said its Rs 15. She angrily refused to pay 15 and instead demanded only Rs 8. The seller refused. She started arguing with him for about 10 minutes and then said, she would pay Rs 8.50. The seller refused again. Her temper increased to a new level and then continued another 5-10 minutes of argument. Now with anger and desperation, she demanded to charge only Rs 9. The seller refused, and she walked out. She stepped back a few yards babbling with herself. It was really hot and humid condition. However she was still willingly continued her arguments and she returned again. Now she said that she would pay Rs. 9.50 only and if not, she would finally go back. After a pause for a moment, the coconut seller finally agreed and offered her one. I was surprised and then suddenly realized the logic behind his different pricing for different people! Whatever it was to others, but it entertained me for some time. Kolkata has always been famous for bargain shopping of every kind, however, never thought of experiencing something like this (Rs 1.50 of bargain in about 30 min!). And, yes, this is Kolkata with its flavor.

Scene 2: Mode of Transport

After coming to Kolkata, I realized there are very few places in and around Kolkata for weekend drive. Among them are the beaches near Digha which are about 170-180 kms to the south of Kolkata. However, I decided to got to Mandarmani which is just 5-10 kms ahead of Digha and where, as I heard from my colleagues, the beaches are really kind of virgin. So, I finalized for Mandarmani trip in the next coming weekend. Then came the next question- how to go. There are direct train and bus services to Digha from Howrah station, however, not for Mandarmani. So suggestions came- take bus or taxi or share taxi or share auto to the bus-stand in Kolkata, take a bus that goes to Digha, get down on the way to Digha in a place (forgot the name), take a share auto or minibus to a place near to Mandarmani (again forgot the name), and then take either a shared motorized cart or shared pedal cart to reach the Mandarmani beach, and then enter the resort. (For your information, most of the resorts in Mandarmanu has entry from the beach front only, there was no road to them from the main highway). I felt trembling!!! I almost thought of abandoning the plan after realizing the complex modes of transport. But then I asked with no hope, "Can I drive directly down to the Mandarmani beach from Kolkata." To my surprise I got a reply as YES! And bingo!!! But there was a catch, to reach by car, one needs to reach and leave the beach between 10.30 am and 4 p.m. In other time, generally due to high tide, some parts of the beach gets consumed by the bay of Bengal. I took the risk and went ahead with my plan to take my car, only because of its the simplest transport mode. During that journey, I realized one more flavor of Kolkata- its modes of transport. This is the only city in India (perhaps in the world also) where you will see all modes of transport- underground metro, trams, buses, trains, three wheeler auto-rickshaws, pedal rickshaw, hand pulling carts (although I am ashamed of its existence in today's date!), four wheeler taxis, pedal open cart, motorized open cart...and many more!! Its not amazing!!!

Afterthought: After visiting Mandarmani, I must say this is the one of the best beaches in India. If it is developed in systematic manner, it has the potential to be a world beater!!! I will never forget the sunset at the beach with my most refreshing tea, the purplish-golden reflection of the sand, slowly rising tide kissing my toes!! Given a chance, I will definitely pay one more visit there.

To be contd...

Why I "Liked" this Rockstar

2011-11-19T12:28:00.003+05:30

A gentle warning to all those head bangers, do not expect any extravagant out of this one from Imtiaz Ali's fourth venture. As the name suggests, it is nothing much of rock or heavy metal music that you might have expected (anyway, in India no one expects so also). However, it was about the life of an aspiring Rockstar, who kissed success in his aspiration albeit passing though enormous darker side of his life; and eventually it remained so. Yes, Imtiaz Ali tried his best to portray the life of a person who aspires and achieves his dream of becoming a rockstar, however not using the best known life mantra's of many of the artists' best known lives. Here there was a fellow who dreamt of becoming someone like Jim Morrison, however without knowing how. He tried all possible things to follow to reach his goal, however he never felt the inspiration from his soul inside. Then, unknowingly and slowly he found something to cheer about in his life, by virtue of an unknown love for a girl; and when he actually realized his love, he became desperate with all his pains and agony! Lets keep the suspense here why so. Through all these pains, he started creating his best music through his songs as he could not explain his thoughts in plain words. In the end, he had to lose his love out of his own selfish and adamant love for her. However, he could achieve his dream of being the Rockstar, but then, without a life and a sense happiness. Well, this is what in sort this movie is all about. But, somewhat I was not convinced enough that the film title justifies the story.

Ok, then keeping aside this, the question comes what I "liked" about it. Three things- firstly, Ranbir Kapoor's acting! Oh man...he is really terrific in portraying his character of Jordan, it seems he really got into the gloves of Jordan. I must say, he has shown and proved his diverse acting skill through this one. Secondly, the background scores from A. R. Rahman. However, when I listened to Rockstar's music prior to watching the movie, I was not very much impressed. But it all turned upside down when I saw the movie and realized the beautifully crafted background scores by Rahman. I think that's his signature throughout all of his movies. I must say about two songs- "Sadda Haq" and "Nadaan Parindey Ghar Aja". These are Rahman's best creation in Hindi rock genre! Finally, I was impressed with Imtiaz Ali's effort in creating a movie keeping aside his earlier ventures. He has been successful with his other releases- Jab We Met, Love Aaj Kal etc, where mainly it was the brighter side of life that has been the driving force. However, here he tried the contrasting path and I believe he is somewhat successful. Let’s hope for his future endeavors to come.

Considering, all above I would mainly recommend Rockstar for two reasons- Ranbir's acting and Rahman's music. My final score would be- 3.75 out of 5

The Bard from the Banks of Brahmaputra: Some Thoughts

2011-11-12T23:52:00.001+05:30

The recent past few days in Assam has witnessed, perhaps, one of the largest gatherings in the world at the demise of the beloved Dr. Bhupen Hazarika, the bard from the banks of the great river Brahmaputra. No one in Assam has ever received such love as Bhupenda (as known more fondly) has drawn in his last journey. He was and has been one of the greatest personalities of modern India who contributed immensely towards national integration through a cultural journey filled with music and compositions. Then I wonder, why the mainstream India, barring a few media channels (thanks to Arnab Goswami- TimesNow and NDTV) and places, so indifferent to this landmark happenings! Despite his such great works, why it seems there is little significance in India's heartland! Bhupenda's work broke the man-made boundaries, reached the heart of the people from across the borders, but then people are wondering here why Bhupenda never received much better attention in his lifetime in national level that he deserves, why he was not considered for Bharat Ratna, nor even for Padma Bibhusan. Perhaps, I got my answer when I listened to this interview of Jahnu Baruah in NDTV, who has been the most talented filmaker of Assam, perhaps one among them in India today. He said, "India is culturally so rich in so many different cultures/languages that one may not understand the greatness of a man's work, like Bhupenda's, if he does not know the language that forms the basis of such great work". He may be true to some extent, but that does not mean that the nation should forget a person who played an important role in its integration. Just analyse Bhupenda's work since India's independence till date and you will know why I am right. Moreover, not only he contributed immensely to national integration, he also played his part in building India's cordial relation with her neighbours. Remember Bhupenda's song written for Mukti Bahini in their journey toward independence of Bangladesh, it was then considered as unofficial national anthem during the war!

Coming to Assam and its future without Bhupenda, I visualise a big void in Assam's socio-cultural activities. Assam had witnessed a surge of immensely talented and gifted personalities in early 20th century and late 19th century who made the foundation of the modern Assamese society and culture. Notably, Lakshminath Bezbaruah, Parbati Prasad Barua, Bishnu Rabha, Jyoti Prasad Agarwala were the ones among them (and my apology for missing out the other great names). However, most of these great souls departed from these earthly pleasure more or less within a decade long time, leaving no one other than Bhupenda to carry forward this foundation in his young shoulder alone. And, he carried it successfully! Not only did he contribute and carry out Assamese society through his medium of music and compositions, he also fetched the recognition for this culture in national and international platforms. He was one of the main forces ( I believe I will not be wrong if I say the only force) behind bringing a togetherness between the North Eastern India and rest of India and beyond. Along with the personalities like late Syed Abdul Malik and now ailing Mamoni Raisam Goswamy (who played the important roles of enhancing Assamese literary creation post independence), Bhupenda played the most important role of building and shaping Assamese socio-cultural dimension. He was, has been and will always be the face of Assam; his songs and music will always play in the heart of Assam. Now, I again wonder- will this void be ever filled??? I hope that our society and culture have reached to a position from where it can only sustain and grow out of its own foundation laid by all those great souls. Hope we will learn to live without Bhupenda, hope we will always be reminded of this void left by his departure and will always thrive to be the one who can at least contribute to fill this void however may be little in contribution. Lets pray for this great Bard from the banks of the river Brahmaputra, you will always hear his music echoing out of its flow.

Anna and Beyond..

2011-08-31T11:53:00.005+05:30

Anna Hazare, the man who once fought for the nation as an army man, today fights for the same nation but as a common man and this time against the enemy within. Earlier he was a mere defense driver who followed all the orders he received, today he is leading a society that belongs to almost every nook and corners of India. Since his voluntary retirement as an army man, he has been relentless in his passion for working towards social justice. He did several agitations, demonstrations and fasts in the past against various governmental corruption issues, but this time he has done something which was beyond imagination for many of us. Let me summarize what he has achieved in his recent 12 day past-

He has awakened a nation that has been sleeping since, I believe, JP's movement of '70s if not the freedom struggle
He is successful in uniting the nation against all divisive forces in the name of casts, communal, political, regional, economical and social classes
He has succeeded in creating an order in the parliament, which all parliamentarian thought as their property that can not be questioned
Finally, he has glorified the Indian democracy to the world, showing how matured our democracy is!

But keeping aside all above, I would like to highlight the success of his movement. How did he or his team successfully manage a movement against the powerful Indian state? It is not a small effort. Somewhere I read that Anna's movement is now one of the most discussed topics among the business schools in India. Then I realise- yes, it is indeed a very good lesson in successful branding and winning people's support. Let me analyze it with some points.

1. An Appealing Issue to All-

Although the Anna's fast was mainly to support for his Jan Lokpal Bill, but the surrounding movement as a whole was termed as anti corruption movement. The result- it touched everyone's heart as there is hardly any Indian who has not faced the dirty face of corruption in his life. Thus, the team has used this sentiment that appeals to all in general, to achieve its objective. The lesson- you can brand your product in line with most appealing sentiments of the targeted people; this will definitely garner interest in your product.

2. The Publicity, in other word Marketing-

This movement is a perfect example of best marketing practice one should adopt. Look at the way it reached to a large portion of mass and significantly, to all the important parts of the mass- the media, the educated working class and the some section of rural less educated mass. Then, one must look at the means the team has used. The team not only used the modern IT platforms like social networks, but it also went for direct campaigning at community levels. Thus, it has performed its marketing both using traditional way and modern technology. This ensured that the campaign reached to larger part of the targeted society.

3. Proven Image: Anna Hazare-

How a 74 year old person secured his position as a youth icon in the young educated class! It sounds very much interesting. Despite all the efforts to divide and then diffuse the movement, it only grew further. I firmly believe-the reason being his immaculate clean character and proven records of public welfare works that did attract the mass. People could relate to their hopes in his dream and their desperation through his deeds. I think this can be a very important lesson for any organization that has some kind of proven goodwill among the people and that wants to grow further. Such organization can hold on its proven image, and can build an environment around that to reach for its targeted objects. The important point is- Anna himself uses the proven power of Gandhian philosophy in his movement!

The above three are the main factors or means on which Anna's team banked upon, and today we all know the result very well. This has been one of the best example of creating a brand and then successfully establishing it. Finally, we hope that this movement does not go in vain, hope it keeps our conscience alive.

My Shots at Zindagi Na Milegi Dubara

2011-07-16T22:40:00.003+05:30

Most of us must have been waiting for some time to watch this one from Zoya Akhtar. Well, before I decided to watch I heard people saying two things- it is influenced by Dil Chahta Hai and Spain tourism. To some extent they are right, but I differ to many saying that it has killed the movie. If just after watching Delhi Belly you expect to see similar plot where urban youthful life would be in full motion, then you will be totally disappointed. Zindagi is not of that genre. Its quite a soft movie in comparison to Delhi Belly. Again, if you are expecting to hear some cracking jokes or situational funny moments, again you will be disappointed. Its language is plain, very gentle and to some extent, I feel, much expected considering the people belonging to late twenties and early thirties.

OK, lets forget about those comparisons, coming back to earlier point, yes Zindagi does look like influenced from Farhan's blockbuster Dil Chahta Hai to some extent. Like DCH, it has three central characters- Kabir (Abhay), Arjun (Hritwik) and Imran (Farhan). Like DCH where Saif Ali portrayed the funniest personality, here also Farhan is at his elements best in performing that part. But there is a fundamental difference, in Zindagi all the characters have equal screen presence and very much equal importance in the screenplay. Moreover, the central theme in DCH was realising true love out of all uncertainties in life, but here Zoya tried to portray the life as its central theme of the movie throughout. But the point is- Has she succeeded? I believe- she is about 70% successful in this. The reason it lacks the charisma of DCH is that she tried too many things to describe and express with a very simple and expected storyline which has lost its balance due to the weightage it had to provide to showcast Spanish Tourism. Even, DCH was also a movie with somewhat expected storyline, but it never lost its soul.

The story starts with Arjun'e plan to go for his bachelor party trip in Spain. They had a vow that they would do something where each one's wish has to be accompanied by other two. Although, it seemed to be their initial idea, but they actually planned this trip to be with each other so that they could confess and face each of their fears. Along the journey they met many people, learnt some important lessons and finally got inspired to face and overcome their fear. This is the story in one shot. So, as you can see, it is a quite expected and simple story. However, I liked the way Zoya treated the story largely. Especially I would like to highlight two cases-1) Their discussion just after the drinking session where they cracked jokes. Many might say it was not funny, but I must say their conversation looked more realistic than what generally described in other movies with funny body language, odd jokes. Considering their personalities and background it was perfectly executed- the way three such persons would have behaved after a heavy session with drinks. 2) And the last scene- the bull run, where they run ahead of the chasing bulls to save their own life. Before this run, they made promise about doing something they wanted to do (which otherwise would have been difficult to execute in normal circumstances) if they would be alive after the run. The toughest promise was from Arjun (Abhay Deol), he promised he would tell the truth to Natasha (Kalki) and cancel the marriage. Then they run, and as expected they survived the run. But there is a little difference in it, he ran for the 2nd and 3rd round again to check whether life is actually giving him his chance or not! That execution was perfect.

Anyway, all the characters were really impressive despite the predictive story line. Farhan Akhtar is really the life of the movie, like always I am really a big fan of this talented person. Hritwik is awesome and Abhay is simply the most cool actor of this genre who can act in the most simplest way as possible. The music and background score are just more than average. Kalki Koechlin is simply the best imported actor in the Bollywood now, really she is much much better than Katrina in terms of acting.

In short, I would rate about 3.75 for this one. Definitely a watch from my point. Among all, the things that I loved most about the movie was the beautiful poetic verses from Javed Akhtar cited by his son throughout. They are simply superb. In short considering all the efforts from the three talented Akhtars, it should catch eyes but with an expected and predictive storyline.

Stanely Ka Dabba: Good Attempt!

2011-05-17T22:35:00.003+05:30

The other day, I went to watch this one from Amol Gupte, who was famous for his work with Taare Zameen Par. I was particularly impressed with its promo and had an anticipation that Stanely Ka Dabba might be an another outstanding one from his bag. Well, after watching it, I am not convinced now.

Albeit, it is a movie crafted with a different stroke and with an honest intention of taking the issue of child labour forward. But at the end of the day, it has turned out to be a work overdone by its creator. Yes, it had everything- a touching good theme, very good actors, good sense of humor and good background score; but somehow it has missed the ticket to leave any permanent imprint on the hearts of the viewers. I believe the extended illogical part in the 1st half of the story where the Khados teacher (performed by Amol Gupte himself) runs after the lunch dabbas of his pupils has shadowed down the realism of the basic theme of the story. There was no good movie made till date in India with the theme of child labour. If Amol Gupte had given little more emphasis on the realistic side of this burning issue, it would have been a real masterpiece like the one- Taare Zameen Par.

From acting point of view, everyone has delivered great performances, especially the lead character portrayed by little Partho. He will have a good future, no doubt. I was really impressed with the background score. The main letdown was the camera angles- well, I was not impressed much. Although, Amol Gupte was right on target in identifying the minute details in a child's playful life at school, he needs to work better on cinematography.

Nevertheless, I will definitely give a rating of 3.5 for this work. I wish him for future good work with Children issues and definitely appreciate his endeavour in this. At least there is someone in India who can showcase the burning issues with children's upbringing, which have been so quietly ignored by most of the movie makers.

The Legend Lives On..

2011-04-02T11:40:00.006+05:30

“Beneath the helmet, under that unruly curly hair, inside the cranium, there is something we don’t know, something beyond scientific measure. Something that allows him to soar, to roam a territory of sport that, forget us, even those who are gifted enough to play alongside him cannot even fathom. When he goes out to bat, people switch on their TV sets and switch off their lives”

-BBC on Sachin

Probably, today will be the last time we will see the Legend with unruly curly hair playing in the final Battle of the Champions; although like a true Indian and a blind fan I also wish Him playing forever... at least in my life time! This is the greatness of Sachin, the Man who single handedly units this Great nation nullifying all divisive factors of socio-economical, caste, religion and regionalism.

I believe I was in Class 2 when Sachin debuted his International career against Pakistan. As someone said when Federer was unheard of, when Messi was in his nappies The Legend landed to face the most hostile attack of that time. But it was until his 1st Century against England, when I actually started following him. Probably it coincided with my growing interests in sports and reading/listening to sports news. And since then, we have been one of few lucky Indians who grew watching Sachin playing ever better in each passing days, series after series.

I was a reasonably OK batsman in my schooldays (although never played any major competitive game), and I remember trying to follow two of Sachin's trademark shots- Cover drive between Mid off & Extra cover and leg side flick between Mid on & Mid wicket. I am sure everyone who did play as a batsman have tried to follow his trademarks somewhere or other. I vaguely remember one of my old friend (Jayanta) playing very much similar to him, especially his late cuts were very much as attracting as was Sachin's.

Today- 2nd April, 2011, this final frontier will be the most passionate moment for every Indian . As someone written in a banner- "I will see God when I will die, but till then I will watch Sachin" and today, as I said in the beginning, probably will be the last day when we will watch Sachin playing his last battle- the battle of the Champions! No matter what may be the outcome today, You are always the Champion in our hearts and will remain be forever. We do not need to take a dip in Ganges, we do not need to visit Mecca, we do not need to visit Himalayas to reach for God's blessings, we are already blessed with His incarnation and today again we will be blessed when we will watch Him play! Hail the Legend...

As Peter Roebuck famously quoted-

"On a train from Shimla to Delhi, there was a halt in one of the stations. The train stopped by for few minutes as usual. Sachin was nearing century, batting on 98. The passengers, railway officials, everyone on the train waited for Sachin to complete the century. This Genius can stop time in India!!"

Today, time will be stopped in India and perhaps a history will be written for the years to remember!

Guzarish- An Interesting Thought!

2010-11-28T21:50:00.008+05:30

Since I last wrote my views about Inception, it has been a dull period to feel like expressing some views about any movie till this latest one from Bhansali -Guzarish. It is also not true that I did not watch many movies in recent months, in reality I did watch almost all the big banner movies- including till the recent one- Break Ke Baad- for which I did not think of writing anything important of!

Well..lets come to the point. Bhansali has always been known for his minutely detailed efforts in depicting his story. It his unique stance and the arrogant style which stand him apart from his contemporary. Although, it was his arrogance that led to somewhat disastrous adventure with Saawariya, with Guzarish Bhansali has really tried his best to control his raw arrogance with some shots that are precisely and masterfully crafted. Especially those moments when immovable Ethan fought the rainy night with each falling raindrops, Ethan's moments of embracing the outside world after 12 long years... that silly moment with his nurse Sophia imagining the feelings of love through her care, the argument between Sophia and Devvyani where one wants to justify Ethan's life to live, while the other supports to end his pain- although both are right in their own way..and a few more. In short, Guzarish is a venture by Bhansali with some moments with real masterly precision. But then, I feel the story could not bring out the real essence of the message Bhansali wanted to highlight. Somewhere, again, with his love for the arrogance he possesses, the script was left with some void in capturing the emotion it should have carried with. In the end, we do not find a clear idea whether we should support the cause of Euthanasia or we should not. But, overall...technically Guzarish is a masterly crafted creation by Bhansali with his controlled arrogance. Bhansali's love with the colour blue and playing with lights and shadows are at its best. Even, the music and the background scores are surely craftily created.

Then comes our lead roles. Mind you- Hritwik has grown to a stature now from where we can say that he will surely leave behind a legacy for the future generation to come. Personally, I was never his fan, in fact I really hated his acting skills in his 1st block buster- Kaho Na Pyar Hain, but now- he is creating a class within himself...that others to salute one day. A big thumbs up to Hritwik...And, our lead lady- Aishwarya- she is actually always at her best with Bhansali. No guessing- this time also, she delivered a great performance. Even, all the roles perfected and justified their presence. Kudos to all of them.

Overall, I would say it was one of Bhansali's masterly stroke with some less color and, perhaps, a venture that certainly missed out to carry its intended essence at the end. It remained in search of finding its essence between an eternal love story and supporting the cause - the right to end one's painful sufferings with a dignified end. I would give it a score of 3.5 out of 5.

Coming Back To Life!

2010-08-10T22:16:00.009+05:30

Dusted I there amidst the life's puzzle,
Prayed I Him in a dire to solve its riddle,
Eluded the dream from those loving nights,
As the more the sun passed its lights.

Stranded was I one rainy night as thoughts rhyme,
Then found I 'me' suddenly lost in time,
Looking straight at those eyes so sparkled,
As emerged the dream leaving me bedazzled.

Enthralled were my senses in her silence so intense,
Enlivened the soul so melancholic decanting her fragrance,
Longed I for holding those moments from demise,
As decided we for a mach embracing life as the sole promise.

As I sit by the window looking at the old night so vibe,
See I myself again tonight coming back to my life.