Just An OpNeon

4084 or Chaalis Chauraasi or 4084 (whatever)

2012-01-19T14:43:00.003+05:30

Cast: Naseeruddin Shah, Kay Kay Menon, Atul Kulkarni, Ravi Kissen, Zakir Hussain

Direction: Hriday Shetty

What happens when you have two class actors, one Bhojpuri superstar and one of country’s best actors, in one movie? What happens when they are planning a heist of Rs. 20 Crore? What happens when they’re dancing to the super hit 80s song ‘Hawa Hawa’ by Hasan Jehangir? You get Challis Chaurasi…..or is that 4084 (whatever even the guy at the ticket window was confused)?? Well some movies need superstar to shuttle between cities, so that people pay to see their movies. While there are others which need bunch of good actors and good enough script to attract movie goers. 4084 (I will use this to address the movie’s name…obviously cauz it’s easier & shorter to write) definitely falls in the latter category. With accomplished actors like Naseeruddin Shah, Atul Kulkarni, and Kay Kay Menon, this film highly depends on their performances (Sorry, all Ravi Kissen fans for not mentioning his name in the same breath as the other three…but then it’s obvious isn’t it). Ok enough of my gibberish talk, let’s get to the point- I mean my review of the movie.

So what’s the story?? It’s about four guys (a car thief, an ex-professor, a drug trafficker & a pimp) who decide to rob an isolated house (where they exchange real rupees for fake ones), this house is apparently protected by just ‘TWO’ guys. So part of their planning is to dress up as “police” and steal a police van and scare the goons away and then walk away with the cash. There is just one problem (actually two), while these fake policemen are roaming around Mumbai…drinking..singing..dancing..harassing people, they are caught by a real policeman (Rajesh Sharma) who wants them to accompany him to catch a dreaded gangster (guess who Zakir Hussain of course). There plan goes haywire but they manage to catch the gangster but in the process come to know that the policeman was actually using them as shield and already knew that they were fake. He asks them why they put on the act…they tell him why. Of course the greedy policeman now wants the money, so they go to the isolated house to rob the goons. But find that they now have to tackle half a dozen mad and pissed off (they don’t really like the ‘Thullas’) gun trotting Haryanvis (mind you I don’t have anything against the community but that’s how they’re addressed in the movies & as such they don’t have names). So as you can imagine it gets really messy in the end with all the shooting going on (please don’t expect me to explain that...it’s as messy as ManU are currently in front of goal).

About the performances, as I said earlier he is one of the best in our country, Naseeruddin Shah a.k.a. Pankaj Suri or Sir is excellent in the limitness of his character. He is a seasoned pro and effortlessly does his part, but I am disappointed because director could have easily used him better. Atul Kulkarni, well honestly I feel that this guy is an amazing actor and its time Bollywood used him more. He plays the character of Bobby, and he and Kay Kay Menon a.k.a Pinto share an amazing chemistry in the movie and their comic timing is impeccable. And how can I forget king of Bhojpuri cinema, Sir Ravi Kissen, to be fair he doesn’t have much to do in this film. But he does manage to get your attention with his dance (I mean the way he thrusts his neck and pelvic puts all the background dancers to shame). Rajesh Sharma (as the policemen) and Zakir Hussain (as the gangster) also do full justice to their small but important roles. But it’s the ‘Haryanvis’ (I should mention this again that I don’t have anything against the community) who steal the show. They are awesome and probably are part of the best scenes of the movie. (Note: catch the Indian Rambo he’s funny). Music of the movie is mediocre, only saving grace is of course is (you guessed it right) ‘Hawa Hawa’. So how do I rate the movie, well the star cast is excellent but the movie could have done well with a tighter script. It’s not a bad option considering the kind of movies that released in its competition this week. So final verdict 2.0 rating for this one, it won’t be a part of my DVD collection but is a good one-time watch just for the good acting.

(PS: I have seen the original video ‘Hawa Hawa’ by Hasan Jehangir at least 10 times after seeing the movie. Its hilarious….thank god (or should that be Google) for YouTube)

Man Vs Woman (the eternal battle)

2011-09-26T17:16:00.001+05:30

Yesterday, I was watching Pyar Ka Punchnama (for like, the nth time) and it was hilarious (yeah again). Well I guess it’s true that Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus. So I thought…let’s add some more fuel to the fire- the eternal battle of sexes. So presenting to you the Man Vs Woman battle (revisited).

Argument:

Well women like to argue endlessly. It’s like they have to put in each and every point that comes in their mind (it doesn’t even matter if the argument makes any sense or not…they thought about it so they have to put it forth). And women want the solution to every problem at that very instant (even if it’s about world peace).They can stretch an argument endlessly (even after years they will remember it).

Men on the other hand want the argument to get over as soon as possible because they know arguing endlessly would solve nothing (and it’s ok for them even if it’s not solved at that very instant). Men suffer from memory loss, they generally don’t even remember about the arguments (or fights) after a while.

Image Source: www.freedigitalphotos.

Dressing-up:

Women like to dress up for occasions. It’s just that even going to office, grocery shopping, evening walks, etc. also come under the list of occasion for women.

Men dress up only when they are going on a date or on their own wedding. Rest of the time it’s just the snap judgment they make about the clothes they want to wear.

Maturity:

Women mature early. It is said women mature by the time they are 18.

Men are more blessed, they think they are mature when they are 25 but the truth is even on their 50^th birthday they don’t have a remote idea what maturity means.

Shoes:

Women have 6 shoes for one occasion.

Men have 1 shoe for 6 occasions.

Shopping:

Women like to shop for every occasion. They usually shop for clothes, jewelry, accessories, etc. (stuff that never makes sense to men)

Men (like dressing up) use snap judgment technique for shopping. Men usually like to shop for some mindless new gadgets. (Stuff that never makes sense to women)

Mobile:

Apparently, better tariff plans were created by Telecom co.’s because of women. And mobile phone companies started attaching better batteries (longer talk time) to their phones because of women.

Telecom companies created the internet pack for men only. And mobile gaming is now an industry because of men.

When they like someone:

If a women likes someone they will make sure the guy comes up to them and asks them out for a date. And her girlfriends will help her on this mission.

If a guy likes someone, he will tell all his buddies…n those buddies will make fun of him whenever that girl is nearby; making sure the guy gets nervous. And when the guy finally proposes the girl and gets a slap from her, these same buddies of his will make once again make fun of him.

Television:

Women like to watch daily soaps and reality television.

Men like to watch sports all the time. They also like to watch reality television only if they have women parading in short clothes.

Magazines:

Women like reading magazines about fashion and women issues.

Well the kind of magazines men like cannot be talked about in public.

Friends:

Women when with their friends talk about all the issues from how their skin is feeling dry these days to what their boyfriends/ husbands said last night.

Men, usually just use slang words to describe workplace environment, last night’s match or their relationship status. (And mostly they do that after they are down with two drinks)

I know everyone of us will have a lot to add to the list. I would love to do so. Please send in your comments and additions.

(The post is inspired from movies, personal lives, friend’s lives and website named www.funny2.com)

Image Source: http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=2125

FriendShip of Life

2011-08-09T16:16:00.000+05:30

"Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born."
- Anais Nin

This is probably the best quote I found about friendship, when I decided to write a post about Friendship Day. Friends are the best (or the worst in some cases) gift to us. So I thought of remembering the old times.

Image: photostock / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

School Days: Probably the best days of anyone’s life (most would agree), when you were carefree and were always upbeat even after a bad mid-term result (which was such a regularity with me). I spent my school days at two places, Delhi (Primary education) and Gandhinagar (Secondary & Higher Secondary). I was a thin, dark and shy boy back then (Not much has changed from then besides my weight of course). It used to be so much fun although we didn’t have any multiplexes or malls to go around. Today’s teenager’s expenses for a day were our pocket money for a month or two. We didn’t have bikes or scooties, but we had bicycles (geared ones were a rage back then). Although many now live in different cities, we are still in touch because of Orkut first and now Facebook of course (I met couple of friends from my Delhi school after about 10-12 years..Pretty amazing)

College Days: College (A-square P C-square i.e. AA Patel Comm College) was not much different from school for me. There’s a famous idiom in Hindi “Aasmaa se gire khajoor mein atke” well that was our situation back then. We left school in hope of being free and do all the fun stuff shown in movies, but all our dreams were shattered when we reached college. First of all, college was in same education complex as our school secondly it was guarded like we were prisoners in the jail. Anyways, I found quite a many great friends here and we had lots fun (details of which can’t be disclosed in this post…let’s just say read my earlier post Four Question Marks???? to get an idea). I had probably one of the best friends in life during this time. We were like brothers. It was amazing.

Pune Year: Honestly speaking I didn’t have any idea about life till I came here (Not that I still have a good idea…just a better one). My life was limited to a small city called Gandhinagar, cricket and friends. I actually didn’t want to go, but brother dear almost dragged me there to prepare for CAT and MBA exams and I will thank him for that all my life. I was scared. Yeah scared, of the big city, the traffic, so many unknown people, not being able to fit in, the list just goes on. So I enrolled for CAT coaching and in Diploma in Journalism there. I was living with my brother here in sort of a bachelor’s hostel. So I learnt to, clean my room, dishes and clothes and how to be self-reliant. With not much to do here, books became my best friends (I didn’t even have a mobile phone back then). Friends here were totally different from what I had seen till now. Firstly, they were older (in some case 5-10 years), then more mature, knowledgeable and intellectual. I learnt to understand things here. And slowly and steadily started to have my own unbiased view about things, issues and subjects (about anything). The city also gave me a new hobby- movies. I became a total movie buff. My departure from Pune was very sudden because of a family emergency, but I still remember the days that really made me a different person.

The fun MBA: When MBA finished I felt man it should have continued for couple more years. Yeah MBA was fun. With lots of event participation (and wins), it felt even better. Made a lot of friends here (friends for life). We had a big group of about 10 people in college and we had loads of fun. These guys were special and I just love them all. There were others whom I can never forget, can’t name them all but they all are super people. A special mention of my grand Project Partner here (he is a dude), without him god knows where my project would have gone.

Kreadiots: Well, part of the MBA group, Kreadiots is made up of four people. All four of us like to call ourselves creatively idiotic. This is because we bring creativity to idiocracy and have fun in the process. We also have a group t-shirt with our nicknames inscribed at the back. Yeah sounds childish, as I told you we do idiotic stuff creatively. (Some of that stuff can’t make it to the blog).

Working Days: Many of my friends tease me by calling me “Krishan Kanhaiya”. This is because six out of my nine colleagues are girls. You can do the math. Jokes apart, all of them are great individuals and really good friends.

The Pen Pals: Have had couple of pen pals since 2000. Well, you can’t call one of them Pen Pal actually, we are more of SMS, chat and FB friends. Other one is probably my second best friend I have ever had. Both of them are really awesome gals.

Just in case you were wondering who my best friend is, well she lives in Gurgaon. She is my best friend and has been so from the day I came on earth. She is my sister. Words can never explain the relation we have. We don’t need to say things to each other, to convey our thoughts. It’s just awesome. (Love you sis).

So that is me and friends.

Image Source: http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=2125

What is Imp? Money or Joy?

2011-08-05T17:39:00.000+05:30

I and few of my friends have this habit of having long threads of emails being exchanged about various topics. (Dude you still use emails???Why??Don’t you have any social networking accounts?? Yeah for some we might sound archaic for still using out of fashion emails). We have email threads running over hundred at times. Well, in college days we had 40 minutes of discussions in college canteen but since it’s not possible for all of us to meet often because of various problems (like distance & time), we make full utilization of our employer’s internet connection. (So enough for the background of this post)

So like innumerous email discussions it all started with a different topic and boiled down to something else. One of the friends (‘HeMa MataJi’ our very own melodramatic aunty) had seen the movie Zindagi Naa Milegi Dobara, and got nostalgic about the time our group spent during the 2 years of MBA (she wasn’t the only one though because I know at least half a dozen people who felt the exact same way after the movie). Anyways so the thread started. I and few others joined in and so on it went. Then one of our friends (we fondly call him ‘Tara Singh’ of Gaddar fame…don’t remember how the name stuck though), sent us a mail with the subject line “What is Imp? Money or Joy?” Although I replied to it yesterday noon only but the question still stuck in mind, and so I thought of writing this post.

It’s quite a simple question you might think, but is the answer to it really that simple? Often in life we have to make tough choices…choices where your mind and heart are in opposite teams and fighting for your acceptance. Whom should one listen to? The Practical mind or The Emotional heart? I for one, always have this eternal confusion about almost everything. And often I make wrong choices which I rue later. I guess almost all of us go through such situations in life. (At least I hope so I am not the only one). Anyways here’s what I replied back to Tara Singh:

“Wats Imp?Money or Joy?...well ans in most imp is thyself....so put urself first...choose wat u want Money joy or nethg else...cauz nethg cn b imp dependin on d situation!!!u tuk d rt decision cauz dats rt 4 u...evrythg else will fall in2 place if ur happy wid ur dec!!hai ki nahi..”

Life is as complex and as simple as you make it. Agreed we need to make tough choices many a times in life, but will these choices be so hard if you have put yourself first and decided what’s right for you. ‘It sounds so selfish’ many would say and being selfish is not a virtue is what our elders have always told us. But think about it again. Aren’t all living beings selfish? I feel we all are selfish and there’s nothing wrong in that. If we aren’t happy how can we make anyone else happy? Now don’t get me wrong it doesn’t mean you take a gun and ape Anders Breivik, and go on a killing spree. Absolutely not. What I mean to say is one should be happy to take a decision and not force self into taking a decision they don’t want to.

Now, it’s not a one solution fits all problem kind of strategy. Depending on the situation and what you want you should take your call. So you could be chasing money or joy/happiness depending on the situation and what you really want.

Another thing we might do, is weighing ourselves down. That is, carrying unnecessary baggage over our head. We all carry these baggages from our previous experiences. But we forget that experiences are meant to facilitate our judgment and not completely overtake it. I have seen people who are so engrossed in their past that they aren’t able to navigate through their present. So it’s important leave past in the past. That’s the best way I feel.

One more baggage that we carry is the baggage of expectations. Especially we Indians have that extra expectation pressure from our families, which again weighs us down. But family should be your pillar of strength and not the anchor of a free-flowing boat. In any decision in life, if you cannot convince your family to accept it, believe me no one will. So if tackled properly, one’s family can be convinced. And then again if you are happy and if your family sees your decision working for you, they will accept. Like I said earlier, one needs to make thyself happy before making anyone else happy.

So this is what I thought……..(till now that is). I know most of you might have their own view (same or opposite), so why not share it. Use the comments to put in your views. So till the next post Asta la vista.

Our Mobilizing Era

2011-08-03T13:36:00.002+05:30

One of my colleagues lost her mobile around a month back and has not bought a new one since then. As a usual reaction, we were all surprised and asked her why doesn’t she just buy a new one? Her response is simple, she doesn’t feel the need to and that she actually gets time to do other things (like reading books). Her responses although amazed me but also got me thinking. Is so much technology really helping us or just eating up all time from our already loaded schedules?

To answer that question I did a small test on myself. I just tried to record the number of times I checked my phone in a day (for messages, emails or anything else). Well my average for couple of days was 16 times. That was quite amazing I thought but then it was not probably a big figure I thought. So I tried to check how much time I spent each day actually using my cell phone. Well I am not much of a caller so, at an average I talked for around 20-30 mins a day. Messages (sending or reading the received ones) took away another 30 mins. Music and radio usage came to about 2.5 hours a day on average. Internet and various application usages also took around 1 to 1.5 hours. So here after the accumulation of data, I was using my cell phone for 4 to 5 hours a day. Now this figure was big I thought. Probably my colleague was right, one can actually get a lot of time without these mobiles.

And guess what yours faithfully has had three different mobiles in last 16 months.

By the way how much time do you spend on your cell phone? Please do comment.

Ohh Jheejhus…Look who’s back on TV

2011-08-03T12:37:00.001+05:30

Image Source: www.newsbeats.in

My luck or whatever you might say it is, I saw a reality show this weekend on NDTV Imagine by the name of “Ghazab Desh Ki Ajab Kahaaniyan” hosted by none other than Miss Rakhi Sawant (I hope you know her because if you don’t she will haunt you). I must say it’s one of the most hilarious shows around; Rakhi is so naturally dumb (ohh Jheejhus, people just love her).

So it was a Sunday and with nothing better to do, I switched on my television and started surfing through channels (not spending more than 2 seconds on one channel). And then I switched to NDTV Imagine and saw Rakhi Sawant, I stopped (Ohh Jheejhus I am a great fan of her you see…I feel that she’s really funny without actually intending to be so). Tata Sky showed the name of the show was Ghazab Desh Ki Ajab Kahaaniyan, I said this should be fun and so I continued watching.

The first episode had Naveen Prabhakar as the celebrity guest. (Naveen who????) Well for those of you who don’t know him, he is a stand-up comedian. And so on it went. So Mr. Prabhakar was on the show to clear a controversial fan he has. Apparently she keeps messaging and calling him and blah blah. Watch the show on YouTube if you’re interested to know the details. Then came the second episode about two people (neighbors or something), who cannot see eye to eye. They apparently send ghosts to each other’s house. It was freakingly hilarious. There’s a show called Comedy Circus on Sony TV which is comedy show but man it doesn’t even come close to this one. You can catch the old episodes of it on NDTV Imagine’s YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/ndtvimagine).

Anyways Rakhi awesome with her reactions…. I mean you will fall off laughing watching her talk and react. Her body language is outrageously funny. Although I guess Rakhi might have thought that it wasn’t a comedy show and she was doing some serious television (yeah right), but I guess the channel has pulled up a prank on her.

I am not complaining though. Enjoy.

(Remember the Jaspal Bhatti show ‘Flop Show’ and that episode where he was the producer director of a TV serial and was given the Comedy award mistakenly, well Rakhi’s show is a real life example of that. All smiles!!!)

No Singham in Nottingham

2011-08-02T17:00:00.001+05:30

Yeah India got a real drubbing at the hands of English. And like many self-proclaimed cricket pundits I would like to take this opportunity to criticize our beloved “Indian Cricket Team”. This article is a pure product of fiction and any resemblance to any real situation is unintended.

Image Source: www.espnstar.com

“Is the dream really over?” is what Mr. Dhoni said to Mrs. Dhoni this morning, confirms our very unreliable source Pumba at Nottingham. Pumba also confirmed that Ian Bell has thanked the whole Indian team and especially Dhoni, first for the generosity they have shown to him with so many boundary balls and secondly of course for the run-out thing. Apparently Stuart Broad and Ian Bell are going to throw a party for the whole Indian team once the series is over.

Pumba also got a chance to interact with some of the Indian players and got their reaction on the test match and the series so far. Here are the few reactions we got.

Sachin Tendulkar said he is quite enjoying the English weather and hopes that his family will join him soon and they will spend some valuable time together.

VVS Laxman when approached said that he and his family never used Vaseline in their life. They are fans of Boroline and have been using the brand since many years.

We couldn’t get a comment from Dravid as he straight away went to have a net session with few local bowlers.

Harbhajan Singh said that he was very angry with Vijay Malya and that he will make sure that his and whole Sikh community’s prestige be restored in the court of law. (Pumba says Bhajji is also angry on Dhoni for appearing in the Ad and hence the performance)

Ishant Sharma seemed very happy, when asked the reason he replied that he was very happy with the barbers in Nottingham.

Sreesanth when contacted said he was very happy with his first innings’ performance and he credited Harbhajan Singh for it. He said “Bhajji-paa really helped me a lot…he told me which lines and lengths to bowl on these wickets and how to swing the bowl from outside leg-stump to off.”

Pumba says World Cup MOT Yuvraaj Singh was very sad when he met him. Apparently he was missing his mother and Neha Dhupia.

Dhoni apologized to Pumba because of lack of time. He said he was getting late for wonderful Thai curry his wife Saakshi had made for him.

Coach Fletcher was seen in a local pub enjoying a few beers. Apparently English team was celebrating their win in the same club and had invited Fletcher to join them for old-time’s sake. Fletcher though declined politely.

Indian team in the mean time is boosted by the return of Nawab of Najafgarh aka Virender Sehwag. Pumba has got inside information from Team India dressing room that they were actually trying to make England overconfident by losing the first two matches and then launch Sehwag on them. He also informed that Gautam Gambhir is already feeling fitter on hearing about Sehwag’s return. We have also learnt that India is considering playing two spinners and that Munaf Patel might be called in the third test to share the spin burden with Praveen Kumar.

So hopefully with such positive energy all around India will be able to make a turnaround in this series and level it 2-2. With high hopes this is me signing off.

RBI hikes REPO rates

2011-07-29T15:44:00.001+05:30

Image Source: www.ibnlive.in.com

RBI recently hiked the REPO rates and I was reading some articles on WSJ.com and LiveMint.com about the same. For those who don’t know what a REPO rate is, it is the rate at which RBI lends money to banks. Now this was done to curb the inflationary pressure that the economy is facing. This inflationary pressure is largely due to the rise in food and fuel prices. Now I fail to understand that after 64 years of independence, an agrarian economy still has basic problems like irrigation and storage. Governments after governments sing the songs that how far India has grown. But if the most important problem related to the most basic need i.e. food cannot managed, we should ask them are we really growing?

I understand that rising fuel prices is another cause of concern. But if that is so, why not improve public transportation facilities and encourage people to use them (Almost all Indian cities have a really bad and insufficient public transportation system in place). Why not discourage people from buying and using private vehicles by having more duties on buying and using cars? (Of course that cannot be done with so many automobile majors looking to set up shop in India, because of two reasons one India being a big market and secondly its geographical position for exporting cars).

10 Years on and Dil Ab Bhi Chahta Hai "DCH"

2011-07-29T11:56:00.001+05:30

Image Source: www.chakpak.com

10 years back I had scraped through SSC and entered HSC or 11^th. Then I had the first heart-break (the situation seems funny now…but back then it was indeed a heart-break) of my life. So like any teenager I was having lots of new experiences at that time.

And then it happened….yeah ‘it’ happened. Don’t think otherwise, I am talking about Dil Chahta Hai’s release. Dil Chahta Hai or DCH had become an instant hit with the youngsters. It has been a cult friendship movie ever since. I still remember back then, we didn’t have much access to internet (we were still using ultra-slow dial up connections back then) so we didn’t depend on the critics review before watching any movie.

The movie as you all know by now (if you don’t….man that’s so uncool) is about three young guys, their friendship & buddy bonding and their individual love stories. DCH was an uncommon movie. It was not about high octane action, super emotional family-drama, sugar-coated romances, singing in the rain or snow-covered Swiss mountains. All though the protagonists were rich Mumbai guys, they had an appeal and an instant connect with small town middle-class guy like me. Everything about the movie was so fresh, be it the dialogues, the screenplay, cinematography, music, styling, I mean almost everything. New age cinema had finally reached the Bollywood shores.

Well DCH gave us a lot of stuff to hold on to and here are my favourites from the movie.

Music: The songs were awesome. It seemed as if the album had one song for each mood.

1. DCH title track- the ultimate buddy song

2. Jaane Kyon- the naughty love track

3. Kaisi Hai Yeh Rut- the dream track

4. Koi Kahe Kehta Rahe- the party song

5. Tanhayee- the heart break song (a personal favorite at the time for the obvious reasons)

6. Who Ladki Hai Kaha- the funny dance song

Style: How can we forget?

1. Aamir’s soul patch or a mouche. It’s my personal favorite and most often than not I have it since I first grew it in 2001.

2. Aamir and Akshay’s haircut. I say it with honor while everyone was aping Aamir’s haircut, I had Akshay’s cut. Actually I always had that haircut (even before the movie) and so probably Akshay copied me.

3. The casual clothing and Aamir’s hat.

Characters: Oh man weren’t they just great.

1. The Three Friends- Akash- Aamir, Sameer- Saif and Siddharth- Akshay Khanna

2. The Love interests- Shalini- Preity Zinta, Pooja-Sonali Kulakarni and Tara Jaiswal- Dimple Kapadia.

3. The small but interesting characters- Subodh aka Time Table- Azad Dadarkar, Rohit- Ayub Khan, Priya ‘Sameer’s GF’- Suchitra Pillai, Deepa ‘Crazy gal in love with Akash’ - Samantha Treymane

Well DCH magic still holds on (I will be watching it for the n^th time today). All smiles.

Four Question Marks???

2011-03-02T17:48:00.001+05:30

What will happen if four guys with messed up lives have a weekend to spend in an empty flat, with a whole lot of hard-drinks and nobody to disturb them, and to top it all one of them comes up with a freakish idea to spend the two nights and two days. The answer is simple- K-OS (Chaos).

First let me introduce you to the characters (and I mean it…each one of them is a character).

Maddy a.k.a Pritam Raut, well as the name suggests he is a mad man and a wild one at that. He has mastered Computer Engineering (It took him 5 years to finish his degree). He is a MBA (Marketing) and works as Marketing Executive for an Insurance Company.
Second is KS aka Krishna Shukla, apparently an ancient Indian philosopher wrote a book on LOVE and it had a deep impact on Krishna (and of course his initials were very popular in the medical stores all around India). He is a B. Com and a MBA (Finance). He is currently working with a private bank.
Third comes, Atul Sathe, a very cultured and good boy from a middle class Marathi family (affectionately called Darling by Maddy). He is also a Computer Engineer. He is a MBA (Marketing) and works as Business Development Executive for an IT Company.
And lastly Manish Dey aka Mani, he is a genius but an underachiever (he is the only one who brings some sanity to this group). He is also a B. Com and a MBA (Finance). He is currently working with a small consulting firm.

“Yu ki humein zada bolne ki aadat to hai nahi...”said Hema Malini (Basanti), Mani was watching Sholay (probably 50^th time) when he received the SMS from Maddy “Guys Atul is really low these days after he broke-up with his girlfriend...I think we need to do something to cheer him up...I say we throw him a weekend party for his birthday on 11^th Feb...wat say reply asap”. Mani was just writing his reply when another message came...it was from KS “Well I am in...lez have a wild party guyzzz”. Mani read the message and smiled, he thought “man this guy and his wild plans” and he then messaged both of them that he was in for the weekend party. [Mani actually remembered one particular incident that happened when all of them were in HSC. Well the day was 18^th February 2003, it was a beautiful Tuesday morning and Mr. KS decided to bunk class and wanted to do something wild. So he decided to go to this famous (rather infamous) theater to watch an adult movie named “Hawas Ke Pujaari”. Everything was going great for KS, the heroines were beautiful (using a civilized word),but 30 minutes into the movie he found a hand on his shoulder, he was shocked but when he turned back to have a look, he saw his father. Shit. Well KS's father also came to see the movie and saw his son sitting two rows below his seat 30 mins into the movie. All hell broke after that on KS, his father ensured that.]

The Humble Beginning:

Mani and KS have known each other from their High School days; they used to go in the same tuition class and have been friends ever since. Maddy and Atul got introduced to Mani and KS about 4 years back while they were studying MBA. They were brought together by a Production Management project and they messed up the whole thing. And after that this gang has never parted ways.

Ok Back to Present now. (Date: 8^th February 2011)

After everybody agreed for the party, they all got together to plan the party. So started the Yahoo conference between the four,

Maddy: So guys as every1 is ready for the party…lez plan it out. So ne1 has ne suggestions 4 d same?

KS: Well as I said we should do a wild party…I say we get some hard drinks….n Mani don’t start your ideological crap ok...It’s a party after all man…

Mani: I avoid it because my dear I know all you a**hol*s….have no control over yourself and will do all the mad stuff…pass out..And I will have to clean up the mess…..

Maddy: Mani yaar chill maar…..we’ll do the party at my flat this time…so u don’t need to clean up the mess…bol ready

Mani: abbey it’s not about the cleaning….tum saale talli ho jaate ho n wat happens next v all know…isn’t it Atul

Atul: yeah man…u guys remember how Maddy gave a special slang class to that Omlette hawker last Navaratri…..i swear meri to fa** gayi thi

KS: Saale teri to hamesha fa** jati hai….iss baar don’t back out…this time ur gonna drink…saale Devdaas its ur party…..

Atul: Fa**ati teri hogi…..m not scared…I just respect my culture and my parents…..

Maddy: oye mere Cultural King…..r we uncultured????chal dis time ur gonna drink..agar fa**u na ho to?

Atul: m nt fa**u…n I will prove dat 2 u guyz dis time b**nc**d

Maddy: so at last Cultural King takes the challenge huh…gud gud…now lez pln…so we will get together at my place on 11^th…I will make sure we have enough booze and food in the refrigerator to last 2 complete days….baki Mani do bring ur camcorder…wat else bolo???

KS: guys...i have this latest po** CD it’s awesome…shud I bring it????

Mani: saale Vatsayana k sishya…tu nahi sudrega…at least now leave this addiction of yours….bhul gaya Papa ki maar??? :D :D

Maddy: yeah man ab to chor ye po** addiction…chalo now I gotta leave…we will meet you on 11^th at my house 8PM….okeys cya

Atul: cya guys too…my client is awake now….saala Skype pe msg pe msg maar raha hai…

Mani & KS also logged out. All four of them were now waiting eagerly for 11^th, to have fun and get a relief out of their respective f**ked-up lives.

Love Only: Atul and KS episode (Date: 11^th February 2011)

Manni and KS were the first to reach Maddy’s flat on the seventh floor. They were greeted with a huge hug by Maddy. He used all his strength to make both Manni and KS understand what a tight hug meant. All of them went in and then Maddy said “Atul called….said he’s gonna b here by 8.30PM….some client suddenly called for a meeting so…”.Mani said “He is always late…humesha iske sath hi kyu aisa hota hai…neways”. And then KS opened his mouth “what about Daaru??kya kya laya hai be??”. Maddy “hmmm…we have two bottles of Whiskey...wo bhi ‘Antiquity’…one bottle of ‘Old Monk’ rum…one Smirnoff vodka…and Eight bottles of beer….and if we need more samne wale flat ke uncle se setting hai”. KS’s expression was priceless...he was shocked but in a good way…and of course he couldn’t hide his excitement.

KS was all excited and wanted to start as soon as possible, but somehow (don’t know how but…) Mani and Maddy were able to make him realize that the party is for Atul and so they should wait for him. So they waited and waited for Mr. Atul Sathe. Of course, Atul came at his leisurely time at around 9.15PM and was greeted with a mouthful (of Slangs) from all the three. Once Atul was there, they called for some pizzas from Dominoes, now everything was set for the party.

First round of drinks started with beer mixed with rum (Maddy felt that only beer would not be enough). So all of them said ‘Cheers’ and started to drink. Atul had a peculiar expression after his first sip and said “it’s too bitter guys, I can’t drink anymore”. Maddy then mixed some Fanta in his drink and said that this would make it taste better and Atul carried on after a lot of persuasion from the three. KS was the first to finish, he gulped it all in one go and was ready for his second (Honestly, he looked like a dog who saw a bone, he was literally salivating). After having two rounds, KS had reached a different plane altogether and was singing with the Sheila (Katrina) on TV. The other three decided that a third drink for KS would be a catastrophe for not just them but also for all the people in the building. So in the third round there were only three players left and they carried on and gave some Fanta mixed with water to KS.

After the fourth round the pizzas were finished and Atul said he could have no more. It was getting boring so they all started to talk about their lives, first-up was Atul and the question was obvious ‘Why did he and Naina break-up? After all was so well between the two’. Maddy, Manni and KS(or any part of him that was still in its senses) were amazed at Atul’s reaction (after all the A**H*LE had started to cry). And then Atul started to speak.

Atul: Well, guys I have a confession to make here. Me and Naina never broke-up...it was she who dumped me.

Maddy: So why did you lie?....But why did she dump you?

Atul: Well their were a number of reasons. Firstly that I was a Marathi and she a Marwadi. Secondly, I wasn't rich. And lastly that I was not even settled in my life.

Maddy: What the f**k? How could she? Why didn't you just give her a tight slap? How can she just end a 2 year relation like that?

Atul: Well, do you think I didn't try?She didn't even listen....may be she never loved me...guyz I feel broken...cheated...hurt...all this is crap. Why does shit happen to me??? (and he again started to cry)

KS: Mat ro yaar. (he then did the unthinkable.....hugged Atul and was calming him down...i swear if anybody else saw them like this they will have doubts about their sexual orientation)

Maddy: Shut up dude and leave him alone. You two look very gayish like this (hearing this the two jumped back to their original seats).....and listen Atul don't be a jerk...wo saali gayi to gayi...remember there are many fishes out there...ye nahi to koi aur sahi.

Atul: I know man. Its just that I love her so much...I just can't just throw her away from my heart yaar. I don't know what went wrong yaar....I loved her so much...probably loving somebody with all your heart is not enough.....

Mani: Dude this LOVE is an overrated term. I have been through couple of heartbreaks as well....I know it's a hard time for you at this moment..it won't get better if you don't let go of her. If she really loved you, she would have understood by now...its been a month now...she would have comeback to you if she wanted you. And you can't just wander around like a bloody DevD.....their is nothing cool in that. I mean look at you....you look like shit.

(Atul felt better after Mani's word...Mani had that effect on people...he understands things so well and can make people understand things so well)

Atul: You're right dude...why should I cry...I didn't leave her..she left me...my work has also suffered because of her. You know all this started about couple of months back and this has f**ked up my work. I just lost out on a promotion today because of my shitty performance in last two months. To hell with her and this f**king love. I will now do things that make me happy from now on.

Maddy: Thats the way it should be. (He then poured some more drinks in everyone's glass)

(And then KS started to speak)

KS: Atul dude you're so lucky at-least you had a girlfriend. Look at me, I can't even propose to the girl I Love. Ok I gotta take a pee (He then jumped up, then went into the balcony)

Maddy: A**H*LE...thats not the toilet, its the balcony...come back here...go to your right.(KS went to the toilet). Mani what is he saying?? Don't tell this a**h*le is in love??

Mani: Actually, I dont know if you can call it Love or not. He saw this beautiful girl this other day at the Multiplex and fell in love instantly (like always). And it doesn't end there, he followed her to the parking and noted her vehicle number, and then followed her to her home. Actually just saw the society she lives in. Now some friends of his told him that her name is Swati...dont know whether they are just joking with him or not. And so he is in love for the past six days.

(Maddy had this devilish smile on his face. Mani just knew he is upto something and a prank was on its way)

Maddy: Guys I have a great idea. I will talk to KS...you all will just agree and flow with it. Ok shhhh...he is here. So KS man you love someone? What is her name?

KS: Her is Swati....watta beautiful name isn't it? But she is even more beautiful then her name. I swear this time I am really in love.

Maddy: You said that about Megha Patel also.

KS: No man with Megha it was more of lust then love. But this time I am sure it was love. Moreover Megha wasn't a good girl she was going out with that idiot Punjabi guy Aakash.

Maddy: Why is Aakash an idiot? He just made a move at her before you did. You just didn't have the courage to propose Megha. Isn't it guys???

Atul and Mani said in unison “yeah true man...very true”

KS: What I don't have courage? F**k you guys. I wasn't scared...I just wanted to be sure that I love Megha before I made a move. Now I am happy I didn't make a move on her because I truly love Swati.

Maddy: He he thats a joke. As you said you're sure you love Swati..if thats so why haven't you proposed to her?? Tujme himmat hi nahi fat*u.

KS: Yes I will propose her. I will do it tomorrow.

Maddy: Why do you want to waste time??? If you really love her tell her so tonight. Its just 1.30am now. We can go now and express your feelings.

KS: I don't know her house..I just know which society she lives in.

Maddy: So what we will find out after reaching there. If you love her propose her tonight or accept that you're a Fa*tu.

KS: What I am Fat*u? I am Fat*u?..chalo lets go I will prove to you all that I have courage.

(And bang Maddy just pulled it off....Mani and Atul knew KS is gone now...he just sold his soul to the devil...a Devil named Maddy...so all four were sitting in Maddy's open jeep and heading for this Swati's house...as wind gushed passed their ears...they were getting even more talli)

So they reached the society. There must have been a marriage their because people were brining down the tamboos and bamboos their. And then KS started walking ahead of us and did the unthinkable (again), he started screaming “Swati...Swati...where are you???? I love you....where are you?”. And as the lights started to switch on, the other three knew they should head back to the jeep and they did...but they forgot one thing KS.

People started gathering and KS was still shouting Swati's name. Then few young guys came forward and started to talk with KS.

1^st guy: Who are you? What do you want?

KS: I am Krishna. I am looking for Swati. I love her and am here to make her mine.

2^nd guy: Swati do you know this guy?

This Swati was six feet and 100 kgs Hippo. Swati said “ I don't know her bhaiya”

2^nd guy: A**H*LE you are going down tonight...how dare you say such things about my sister.

KS: Are u crazy? This is some mistake....am in the wrong place. Am I mad to love this Buffalo (Pointing at this Swati).

KS never knew what happened after that. His last sentence ensured that. The 2^nd guy with his gang started beating him. But as saviors the other three reached there on Maddy's jeep. And by the grace of god Mani knew this Swati's brother and calmed him down and convinced him that KS just got drunk and didn't knew what he was saying. A police complaint and many broken bones were avoided.

All four went back to Maddy's flat after that. KS had already passed out. The other three decided that they had enough action for the night and should head straight for sleep. And so after cleaning KS face they all went to sleep. (By the grace of god nothing had happened to KS....he lost his senses just after getting the first punch from Swati's brother and felt nothing after that. The other three prayed that he doesn't remember what had happened in the night)

Atul was the first to wake up next day at noon. Mani and Maddy soon followed. They all had freshened up, when at last KS woke up. The other three just wished that KS didn't remember last night or he would go crazy. Well, he was normal after waking up. “Probably he would react after he starts to feel the pain” thought the three. But they were shocked with KS silence, he just freshened up and then took a bath. The suspense was killing, so at last Mani spoke.

Mani: KS yaar. Are you ok? Do you remember anything about last night?

KS: Of course I remember what happened. (He replied in a peculiar ascent)

Maddy: To saale, its been an hour since you woke up...kuch bolta kyu nahi???

KS: F**k you a**h**e. My jaw is all swelled up...I can't move it..bolu kaise?? Saale, you all left me alone in that society. I don't know what I said or did, he just punched me on my cheeks and then I don't know what happened after that. I woke up around 9, when you guys were sleeping and was relieved that I was still alive.

Maddy (started to laugh): “Abey saale...tuje sayime nahi pata....what you said to that bodybuilder...k wo itna bhadak gaya?....Tune usko kaha you love his sister and then called her a Buffalo and also called him a Bull.” (And he burst into lauhgter)

Mani and Atul, also couldn't hold on anymore and laughed their hearts out. KS stood their like a child who had no idea what he did, but he still put brave face and managed a smile.

A Different Ball Game: (Date: 12^th February 2011)

All four decided to have a heavy lunch, so all went to this Punjabi Restaurant nearby and had a luxurious lunch. They all came back, booked tickets for a 5.30 movie and then went to sleep. They woke up in time for movie and reached their in time. The movie was around 2.5 hours long. So after coming out of movie they decided to get some packed Chinese food and go back to Maddy's flat and eat while drinking.

It was already 9 when they reached Maddy’s flat. As everyone was not so hungry they decided to have one round of drink before dinner. So after one round of drink they had dinner. After dinner they again continued with their drinking program. At the end of the third round Maddy came up with a strange idea.

Maddy: Guys this is getting boring…let’s do something fun…I have an idea…but it will test your courage and resilience. Are you guys ready??? (And then gave is devilish smile again)

Atul: Guys I don’t know about you all but I am getting scared now. Whenever this sick ba*t*rd gives this smile I get scared. God knows what he will throw us into now?

Maddy: Relax A-Tul…I am just saying let’s play an interesting fun game. You guys in?

Mani: Please don’t say we will play truth or dare now? Truth scares me…especially after booze.

Maddy: Oye philosopher nayi yaar…Truth or Dare is an old game. My game is much interesting and fun…and physical. Are you guys in now?

Mani and Atul had a quizzical expression on their face…when they heard the phrase ‘physical’…but still said ‘yes’ to the game. KS of course didn’t have such a problem…his brain never gave him signals I guess...so he also agreed.

Maddy: Have you guys seen baseball? (KS didn’t know much about baseball, so motioned his head sideways in disagreement)….Ok you have seen cricket right…the game is similar to that. Now in this game we will be divided into two teams with two players each. One player from the first team will bat while the other player will be the wicket, standing erect from his knees …the player from the other team will hold the wicket-guy’s hand from behind so that he doesn’t move during the delivery….and of course the left player will be bowling like a baseball pitcher. And ya…the uniform for the game would be nothing but your respective undies.

All three were shocked but KS agreed immediately (after all he was the one who wanted to do wild things). Mani also agreed hesitantly. Atul said “Are you crazy agar lag gayi kisi ko to? I am drunk not mad…am not playing”.

Maddy: Arey yaar Atul….don’t be scared the wicket-guy will wear that helmet of yours. Now the rules of the game, the batter won’t try to hit the ball he will try to defend the ball and save his team mate from getting hit. Every ball you defend will give you a point and a miss will give you nothing and if you hit the helmet it will be a minus one. There will be two rounds, in the first round each team will get 6 pitches to bat/bowl. A player can bowl or bat once only. And ya for bat we will use that broken chair’s handle and for ball I have a tennis ball, which is very light and will ensure no one gets hurt. So shall we begin??? Arey Ha Mani set up your Camcorder; we will shoot the damn thing.

All got dressed for the game (or rather dressed down). Mani got his Camcorder out and placed it just behind the pitcher and started recording. When everything was set, they decided to draw chits for deciding teams. So four chits were made by Maddy, two had number one written on it while the other two had number two written on them. Now other three picked the chits, Mani and Atul got number 1 and KS got number 2. Next thing was the toss which Team1 won and they decided to bat first. Atul took the bat and Mani bravely became the wicket, Maddy took bowling and KS held Mani’s Hand from behind. And the game began.

Atul missed first three balls; two balls hit Mani on chest and last one on the belly just above the most dreaded place. God listened to Mani’s prayer for next three balls as Atul was able to defend them. Mani was more relieved than happy to score three points.

Now it was Team2’s turn to bat. Maddy took to batting while KS became the wicket. Atul’s first ball was a slow on that dipped on Maddy and hit KS on his thigh but he still screamed, the other three could not stop laughing. After 2-minutes laughing break, the game restarted and Maddy managed to defend the remaining balls.

Score was Team1: 3 points and Team2: 5 points after first round. Team1 batted gain now, Mani was batting and Atul was wicket with KS bowling. Mani defended all the six balls. Team1’s score was 9 now; KS had to get 5 in the last round. KS came to bat now with Maddy being the wicket. Mani bowled first four balls and KS defended them, there was tension in the air. KS missed the fourth ball and it hit Maddy on his neck. The last ball was of course very interesting, KS stood straight in front of Maddy…Mani had bowled a fast ball and it hit KS on the dreaded place. KS managed just an “ooh” and then silence, and then fell on the floor. He was on the floor for about 5 minutes and Maddy laughed for those 5 minutes non-stop.

All three were still laughing with drinks in their hand while KS was drinking and cursing Mani. And they all laughed every time KS said anything and Maddy was enacting the whole scene again and again. Things were going great; all of them were joking and pulling each other’s leg. Then Mani started to speak.

Mani: Guys I love you all…you’re the only bright spot in my dark and gloomy life.

KS: Abey tuje kya hua? You and emotional…man that’s unbelievable.

Mani: Yeah that’s a part of me as well…. I do get emotional as well. You know life is sometimes very unfair. There’s always action and reaction thing going on. And I somehow always mess up my action and get messed up reactions from life.

Atul: What are you talking about? I don’t understand what you’re saying.

Mani: Well am saying that all my life I have strived to get something and failed at it. Take Education…I was good at them but somehow messed up the exams and in turn the result. In Love...I loved Alisha but let her go although I knew she was the one. In job I know I am good at doing creative stuff but I still hang on to this same monotonous work just because I get money out of it. I am just a looser.

Maddy: Mani man you’re not a looser but yeah you fear taking risks. That is fine because we all are afraid to take risks. But sometimes you just got to take the leap of faith dude.

Mani had his eyes closed and was silent, he was listening.

Maddy: You know….you have a great mind; I mean…you can think both analytically and creatively. That’s a rare combination man. But you know what your biggest problem is? You think too much at times and that just stops you from hitting the nail at the right time. I am not saying don’t think before you take an action but rather be proactive sometimes. Let’s face it you’re a bit laid back and that doesn’t help. If you really want to get things in life you got to change that.

Mani: Yeah I know you’re right.

Atul: Yeah man you don’t have a bad life, you’re doing pretty well just be a bit more brave….. Think if you were born with KS’s mind or whatever he has in his head.

KS looked miffed. He then started fighting Atul (KS only knew one way to fight that was pinching your opponent), and both Mani and Maddy were laughing like mad. It was midnight and Atul’s 25^th Birthday. Maddy held Atul’s both hands and Mani & KS held each of his leg and started giving him birthday bumps. And then Maddy started kicking Atul’s bum and other two joined him. At the end of it all Atul’s whole body was paining, especially his bum.

Mani: Chal Atul it’s your birthday and since we are together, we give you a chance to ask any one of us a question and we are bound to give you the truth and nothing but truth.

Atul thought long and hard, and then smiled and proceeded with his question.

Atul: Well I thought a lot. In the last two days…actually one day and two nights…we all have some or the other problem. But Maddy you seem to be really cool about everything in life. I mean how is it so? Don’t you have any problem?

Maddy: Samasya ghanghor smasya. Well I also have problems; I mean am a human after all. But I tackle most of them by myself. You know I have been alone too long and that’s why I have this problem of sharing. When I was 12years old I was sent to boarding school as my parents didn’t want me to see them fighting. They divorced when I was 14, after that I would see them once a year and that too separately. And dad stooped even that after couple of years since he got married by then. Mom was better though, she always felt responsible because I never got the love of both the parents. She used to call regularly even though I never talked to her properly.

Maddy drank some more whiskey and then continued.

Maddy: She paid for my education and all my valid/invalid wishes. Anyways, you guys always asked me that why I broke up with Niharika…well because she was a good girl…no actually a great girl and I loved her also. But like I said I have been alone most of my life and so I messed up. I couldn’t marry her because I felt I would end up like my parents always fighting. And so I just pushed her away, that poor girl kept on trying to hold on to me but I kept on ill-treating her. And last she left me. You know she is getting married soon to this Businessman guy from Mumbai. I wish her to be happy anyways.

Mani: Whoa dude, are you fine??

Maddy: I don’t know what fine is now Mani. I lost the girl I loved and can ever love. And now…. (He could say no more and broke into tears)

Mani consoled him and Atul and KS also did the same.

Mani: Dude get hold of yourself. You are a tough guy but you know….like you told me…you got to take the leap of faith sometimes. Don’t be afraid to take that risk. If your parent’s relation didn’t work, it doesn’t mean your relation is going to be a failure. Believe in love and god, his ways are strange. And don’t hold back so much, sometimes you should let go off the baggage from your heart. One thing, you still love her na?

Maddy: Who?

Mani: Niharika of course. Who else?

Maddy: It doesn’t matter anymore. But if you got to hear it yeah I do love her.

Mani: Do you have the courage to marry her now?

Maddy: I told you it doesn’t matter anymore…I can’t do anything now…even if I wanted to.

Mani: Ok fine. (Sensing the frustration in Maddy's voice, he didn't push him any further0

KS: Guys, don’t be so sad about your lives. You know Atul said the right thing, what if you had a life like me. I understand nothing about life….nah not nothing because I understood what Vatsayana taught…but yeah most things. So cheer up. And let’s make a promise to each other that we will make an effort to make our lives better from tomorrow and change ourselves for the better.

The three didn’t know whether it was because of the whiskey or not, but they were amazed how mature KS sounded (very different from his usual self...actually too intelligent for KS's standards). But they raised a toast to it and agreed on it. Soon after they all went to sleep, a lot more comfortably then did normally.

The Finale: (Date: 13^th February 2011)

All woke up around 9.30-10 the next morning. They all got fresh and had their bath. All sat and were deciding on what to do on this day. KS spoke first.

KS: Guys I dont know about you but the first thing I want to do is go and apologize to that bodybuilder who punched me and of course his sister 'The Swati'.

Rest three thought man this whiskey was magical, KS talking mature is bigger than miracle. Atul spoke next.

Atul: Guys I will go back home in the evening celebrate the evening with my parents and sister. And of course you guys are invited.

Mani: I have decided its time I take a risk. I am going to leave my job. And take up the content writer job with Beat magazine. Although the salary is is lower than what I get now, it would do for now. And yeah another promise guys, that from today onwards I will never complain...it's my life I will make the most of it.

Maddy was silent. So Mani spoke again.

Mani: And Maddy as you won't say or do anything, I am dialing aunty's number and you're going to talk to her and ask her to stay with you for a week.

Maddy said nothing and took the phone and talked to his mother for full 20 minutes. And then when he put down his phone, he was smiling.

Maddy: Man that felt so good...as if there is a load of my chest. My mom is coming next weekend. Thanks Mani yaar.

Mani: Arey don't mention it yaar. What are friends there for then. Ok KS I have talked to Mitesh..ohh I mean your bodybuilder friend...he is at his home, we can go and meet him now.

So got on Maddy's jeep again and went to Mitesh's place. It will be over stretching the truth if one says that Mitesh was happy to see KS. He was not, and probably wanted to have another go at KS.

Mitesh: So what are you guys here for.

Before Mani could say anything KS took the cue and proceeded. The three crossed their fingers and hoped KS didn't say anything offending.

KS: Mitesh let me get straight to the point. Look man first of all let me apologize for that night. I know I talked crap but I was really very drunk. I am really sorry.....Where is Swati? I want to talk to her.

Mani looked at Maddy and Atul, and talked with his facial expression “what is he doing? Wapis pitega saala”

Then Swati came into the room.

KS: Swati, sister I am really very sorry for what happened that night. I know I said a lot to mindless things, please forgive me.

Mitesh looked at Mani and then at KS and started to speak.

Mitesh: Hmm...it seems your really sorry. Well we forgive you. I have done lots of crazy things after getting drunk myself as well so I understand but make sure not to make the same mistake again.

KS and Mitesh then chatted like two old buddies. They hit it from the word go. Anyways when the four were leaving Mitesh's house, a girl came out with Swati (Both of them were smiling). KS had puzzled look but didnt have the courage to ask Mitesh who she was, he didnt want to risk another punch. So he followed the others to the Jeep. The girl also came down and said “Bye Swati...Bye Mitesh bhaiya”. KS decided he had no chance here. He had just sat in the front seat beside Maddy when the girl came on her Activa and stopped it near him and gave him a paper which looked like a letter, and then she zoomed pass them. KS read the letter aloud.

“Hello. I heard from Swati what happened that night. Actually I know you came here for me that night. But I don't live here, I live in a ladies hostel and Swati is my best friend, so I visit her often. I saw you at the multiplex. Honestly speaking, I got scared when you started following me, so came to Swati's place. I must say you make a real bad first impression and a worse second impression but in the third I quite liked you. It was quite gentlemanly of you to come here and apologize. And I must say I am impressed. So I think I would like to know more about you. My mobile number is below my name, message me when you're done reading this letter”- Khushi.

KS closed the letter and kept it in his shirt and took out his mobile and saved Khushi's number. He then started to type a message, but then looked at the three and said “Kya Likhu?”

Maddy: Beta teri to nikal padi. Write something friendly, so that she gets impressed.

Mani: Actually don't do that. She is not falling for that. Hmm write “Read your letter. Thank you for the compliments”.

KS: Thats it.

Mani: Yeah thats it. Ab chalo lets go I want you to meet my new girlfriend at CCD.

Atul: Abey yeh kab hua? Chupe Rustam. What's her name?

Mani: Hmm batayunga lets meet her first. Yaar Maddy, what gift should I take for this girl. She is very much like Niharika.

Maddy (Was silent for a minute): Hmm Nihu loved a red rose and a Dairy Milk. I mean that is how I used to get her to forgive me when I used to make her angry. But don't know whether that will work on your girl.

Mani: Perfect. It would work perfectly well for her.

Maddy started the jeep and took them to the flower shop. Mani bought a red rose after lot of inputs from Maddy. And then they bought a Dairy Milk from a nearby shop. Their next stop was CCD. Mani's girlfriend was not there, so the four got hold of a table and took their seats. And then when everyone had settled, the door opened and everyone was shocked.

Maddy: Niharika you. Mani what is this? You're dating Niharika? (Before he could say anymore Mani intervened)

Mani: Dude stop stop.....before you say anymore. First, I am not dating Niharika. Secondly, she is not getting married. Thirdly, I think you have deciphered by now...yeah it was my plan. Niharika called me told me about what was going on between you two. I knew you loved her, just didn't know why you were behaving like this.....so all this drama.

Maddy (in less than 12 hours Maddy again had tears in his eyes): Mani man you are just.....(then he looked at Niharika and said)...you really love me a lot na Nihu...I...

(Before he could say anymore Niharika hugged him and said)

Niharika: Of course I love you a lot idiot...I just can't say how much..but I do. Now promise...you won't be do idiotic thing again and push me away from you.

Maddy: Pagal ho gayi hai kya? I love you babe. I won't ever leave you now...even if you want to I won't.

They all stayed there for an hour or so and chatted for about an hour. After that Niharika said goodbye to everyone and Maddy went outside with her. The three could see both of them from their. Maddy hugged her again and kissed her forehead before she left.

Atul: Whoa....he does love her lot man.

KS: How do you know that?

Mani: Dude when a guy kisses a girl's forehead to say Good Bye, he is truly in love with her. Note kar le saale jaldi tere kaam aney wala hai. Waise did Khushi reply.

KS: Yes she did..just now. She says “Would like to know you better? Would you like to meet tomorrow evening 7PM?”. I said “Same here..wanna know you better..but where shall we meet?”

Mani: Lage rahe munna. Best of luck not to you...but to Khushi.....bhagawan bachana bichari ko.

And so they all went to Atul's home that night to celebrate his birthday with his family. A surprise waited for Atul there. Gupte family was waiting there to wish him on his birthday. (Who's Gupte?- He Sathe uncle's childhood friend who had just arrived in the city) And almost forgot to tell, Gupte uncle had a daughter named Manjari and yeah she is about Atul's age and add to that they hit it off pretty well that night. :D :D :D :D

DIL TO BACHA HAI JI

2011-01-30T20:17:00.003+05:30

Cast: Ajay Devgn, Emraan Hashmi, Omi Vaidya, Shazahn Padamsee, Shruti Haasan, Tisca Chopra, Shraddha Das
Director: Madhur Bhandarkar

Love is probably a subject that is integral part of Indian cinema. Most if not all Indian movies has a love track. And same goes with comedy (actually its hard for a movie to be a hit it doesn't have these two main ingredients). So it was about time that Mr. Madhur Bhandarkar tried his hand at both. And so we have Dil to Bacha Hai Ji- a modern day take on the subject that has kept the human species confused for long.....you guessed it right....LOVE.

DTBHJ is story of three men and their encounters with beautiful women and of course LOVE. Naren Ahuja played by Ajay Devgn is a soon to be divorced banker, Abhay aka Abby played by Emraan Hashmi is a playboy and also a gym trainer and Milind Kelkar played by Omi Vaidya works with a matrimony company and also a part time poet, they all come together when Naren decides to rent out his house to two PGs. The three are very different from each other not only in age but also the way they look at love.

There is a 38 year old Naren who is attracted to a young intern at his office, June Pinto played by Shazahn Padamsee. Abby is stuck and confused between love and money and cannot choose between the mother and daughter duo of Anu and Nikki i.e. Tisca Chopra and Shruti Haasan. And lastly Milind, a firm believer in true love who loves radio jockey Gungun played by Shraddha Das, who uses him all the time.

Best performance is surely by Ajay Devgn who does well in his role as a middle aged man looking for love from a girl half his age. Emraan is of course at ease playing the playboy (he is a veteran in this kind of a character now).

So does DTBHJ work? Well it does in parts. I personally found the movie to be too long and slow. The dialogues could have been better (& funnier). But the movie is still enjoyable in parts. A note though you wont fall laughing from your seats watching this one.

Image Source: bollywoodhungama.com

Dhobi Ghat

2011-01-23T15:31:00.005+05:30

Cast: Aamir Khan, Prateik Babbar, Monica Dogra, Kriti Malhotra

Director: Kiran Rao

“What did this movie want to say?” was what my friends said after coming out of the movie hall (a thought echoed by most coming out of the hall). Dhobi Ghat is a very different kind of cinema, one with which we Indians as not too accustomed with. I actually liked the English title for the movie 'Mumbai Diaries' (it describes the movie better).

The film revolves around five characters, Aamir Khan (Arun- a Painter), Monica Dogra (Shai- a Investment Banker+Photograpger from New York), Prateik Babbar (Munna- the Dhobi), Yasmin (a young newly wed Muslim girl) and Mumbai (the city plays the fifth character).

Arun is a painter who lives a lonely life (and likes it that way), he makes a rare public appearances at his exhibition and meets Shai- a investor banker from NY, who is also a photographer. They come together and spend the night together. A night with which Arun isn't too happy about and in the process hurts Shai, who on the other hand feels they had a connection. Munna is a 'dhobi' in the morning and a rat-killer by night, who wants to be an actor. He introduces Shai to Mumbai and while doing so falls in love with her. Yasmin is newly wed Muslim girl who comes to Mumbai from a small town in UP. She appears from time to time in the video letters to her brother, which Arun accidentally discovers in his new house.

The movie shows the city of Mumbai from four different perspectives of its four central characters. It is a story of four different people from four different backgrounds and how their lives crosses each other. The complexity of everyday life is well explored in the movie. The movie opens with a view of Mumbai from a under construction building and that is what the movie is about 'Life under construction'. There are really some chilling scenes towards the end of the movie.

It has some really good performances by all the four characters but Munna and Yasmin's characters steals the show. Especially Prateik Babbar is excellent at his portrayal of Munna- the expressions, body language, everything. Kriti Malhotra does well in her role. Monica Dogra looks beautiful and is good in parts. Aamir Khan though is not at complete ease (it is probably not one of his best performances).

Kiran Rao's directorial debut is experimental and is not for everybody. The movie takes some time getting used to because we don't often see this kind of cinema here. So if you are not afraid of experiments this movie is for you.

Image Source: BollywoodHungama.com

One Life to Dream

2011-01-23T13:23:00.006+05:30

“Sam…Sam….wake up Sam….get up now”….said a soft voice in his ears. 'Whose calling me?' thought Sam, he didn’t know whether he was dreaming or was this voice actually waking him up…so he decided to find out…and slowly tried to open his eyes. What he saw next was unbelievable….he saw a beautiful girl looking at him....Sam had never seen somebody so beautiful. The girl had lovely wavy brown hair…beautiful blue eyes…lips as red as rose…it was too good to be true…so he closed his eyes and opened them again…only to find this girl to be even more beautiful. Slowly he lifted his head from her lap….the girl was wearing a beautiful pink silk gown....Sam was dumbstruck and bowled over by her beauty....still looking at her he mumbled “Who are you? What am I doing here? Where am I?” She helped him stand on his feet. Sam was amazed at what he was seeing; this place was like heaven, with trees, plants and flowers all around. He looked at the girl and asked her again “What is this place? Who are you? And what am I doing here?” The girl said “I am Pari…God has sent me to take you to him….and this is the path to God’s palace”.
Sam was shocked….he couldn’t believe what he just heard…was he dead...or was he dying? If yes, then why wasn’t he feeling any fear? “I am probably dreaming” he thought and pinched himself, but he felt the pain of it. The girl smiled and said to him “You are not dreaming Sam…so don’t inflict pain on yourself”. Sam didn’t know how to react…he said to her “How do you know my name? Is this some kind of a joke because let me tell you it’s not funny at all….who has sent you? Vicky…or was it Adi?” She smiled again and said “This is no joke Sam…this is for real…I am here to take you to god...now let’s start…we have a long way to go”. Unable to understand anything…Sam thought to himself, “probably I am dead now…this is what I wanted “DEATH”…and now am getting it, so let’s not be late for my appointment with God”.
Sam was walking with Pari now; they weren’t talking just walking in this paradise. At last Sam broke the silence “How far is God’s palace from here Pari?” Pari looked at him “Not far from here, but it depends on you Sam....how much you want to walk to get there…” Sam didn’t understand what she meant but he liked it; he thought “may be this is how these angels talk”. Sam was actually enjoying this walk with this angel named Pari…she was the most beautiful girl he had ever seen…her voice had a sweet calmness and he just wanted to hear that voice again and again. He was thinking all this when suddenly he heard himself asking her “Are all angels as beautiful as you?” Pari looked at him…silence…and then she blushed and said “Well, it depends on who and how one looks at us, which makes us beautiful”. Sam thought “Wow, am I really flirting with an angel here and she blushed as well…probably she likes me as well”. He was still thinking when they reached a huge door about 25 feet tall. And then the door opened and the bright light welcomed them. Pari told Sam “this is God’s Palace Sam….lets go in”.
Both Sam and Pari were now inside the palace, although there was nothing you would associate with a palace…no gold or silver pots or huge paintings, or carvings….everything here seem to have life and emitted some kind of light...there were colors all around and the air had a sweet freshness about it. Sam said to Pari “you know Pari....I always thought heaven would be a place in the sky...where everything would be in white...but....” Pari continued “but you’re feeling an amazing inner peace here”. Sam was surprised and said “How do you know what I am thinking?”......“I am an Angel remember” said Pari.
“So we are inside God's Palace now....so what now??” asked Sam. Pari kept quiet and pointed to a room on the right. Sam followed Pari into the room....this room had glasses all around....there was couch at one corner....Sam didn't understand what was happening so he looked at Pari....she took him to the couch and they both sat there. “What are we doing here Pari....when is God going to meet us?” said Sam. “Well he will meet us soon enough....till then we have to wait here for him” answered Pari. After few moments of silence Pari started to speak “Hmmm...Can I ask you something? Hmm....why are you here? I mean you seem to be such a nice guy...having a good life...then why? I mean then why did you wish for your death?” There was again a moment of silence...but this time it was really long. Sam had tears in his eyes as he remembered all that had happened in last six months....he hadn't spoken about it for long...not even to his closest of friends....but he wanted to share it with someone...so he started to speak slowly...and Pari was listening intently to him.
You know Pari….Life is really a roller coaster ride….when things are going right you feel a rush of going up…and when things go wrong….you feel the fear from gravity pulling you down even more….six months back I was a happy man…..I was going to propose Shez my love…my life…my everything for last four years….then I popped the question to her….she was amazed to hear it…and she said ‘no’…because apparently she thought I wasn’t well settled and won’t be so anytime soon….so she had thought of breaking up with me and marry a rich techie from US…..and she walked out on me…..I was shattered of course….actually shattered was a small word for the pain I felt inside…..anyways when I told my parents about it, they wanted to be with me….I waited for them….but they never came….only the news that the car by which they were coming met a freakish accident in which both of them died on the spot……I was alone in this world….I started to drink heavily during that time to get through this pain, but the pain never subsided……it all started to affect my work and I was thrown out soon….then I was thrown out of my apartment as I couldn’t pay the hefty rent anymore with my job gone….all my assets…my bike..TV…everything…..were taken back by the bank…these loans just kill you…you know!!!A friend then gave me his flat as he was moving to US……I looked for jobs but I didn’t get any….so here I was alone…without parents…without love…without work…and fast receding bank balance…Shez took a lot with her…so much so that I felt that there’s nothing left inside me..…I had no aspirations…no goal…nothing at all….not knowing what to do in life…just waiting and praying for this pain to end…I wanted to meet god…and ask him a simple question ‘Why Me?’…” at last finished Sam. He was amazed how easily he had told Pari everything that till now he had hidden till now in the darkest corners of his heart. He felt so much better now.
Pari wiped the tears of Sam’s cheeks and kissed his lips. Although it was a small moment…it made Sam feel happy after many months. Pari now took Sam in her arms and hugged him tightly. Sam also held her tightly…he felt real peace in his heart right now….the peace that had been missing all this time. Then Pari said “I need to go now Sam….God is going to meet you now…but promise me no matter what happens from now on you would be happy….do you promise me?”. Sam didn’t want Pari to leave…he wanted to hold on to her…he then said “ don’t leave me alone….I promise I would be happy but only if you are with me….don't leave me please!!” Pari said “I promise I would be back soon..but now you have to meet God now….you shouldn’t keep him waiting..we will meet soon”. Before going Pari kissed Sam and wished him luck.
Sam was sad that Pari was gone now, but he also felt an anxiety of meeting God….he felt like he was giving his first interview. He was waiting for God and thinking what he will say to him, when the door opened. A young man entered the room….he was dressed in a Light Blue suit…he looked smart and handsome. Sam was amazed as he had never imagined God to look like this. The guy came forward and sat next to him and began talking to Sam “So you are Sameer Sen…..how are my boy? I heard you had a few questions for me….why are you so amazed????....alright I get it…you didn’t expect ‘THE GOD’ to look like this young right…well sorry to disappoint you but this is me…so tell me”. Sam collected all his courage and asked “You know everything about my life…so I just had a small and simple question for you…Why me?” God smiled and said “OK I will answer all your question…lets just take a walk outside”.
So Sam was walking with The Almighty God himself now on a road that was going straight...the sun was rising at the horizon...the same place where the road was heading. After walking a bit God started speaking “Do you remember that night Sam..the night before the day when you were gonna propose to Shaina....you wrote something in your blue diary....you wrote 'God, please if you're listening you know how much I love Shez...please so something that she loves me back as well'...you know I granted your wish that night...and the next day you proposed her...and she eventually said yes to you”. Sam said “yeah she took a month to answer that”. God laughed and said “thats not the point my boy...she did say yes didn't she?....okay forget that remember that day when you were coming back from a marriage with your family...and your car got hit by a truck...you were shocked and scared...and you thanked me for saving you and your family.” “Yeah I remember all that God...but whats your point?” said Sam. “My point is when I granted you a wish or when I saved you from a certain death....your first thing you did was thank me......but when I threw a challenge at you...the first thing you said was 'Why me?'....why is that Sam?....Life's full of ups and downs...joys and sorrows...happiness and sadness...but thats what makes life alive....think if you only had days and no nights, would you still enjoy the rising sun?....if there was rain everyday...would you still enjoy the first drop of rain on your face?” Sam was getting what God was trying to say and it got him thinking. God continued “OK tell how high can you jump from this place without bending even a little?...not that high right... Sam I throw challenges at you, not to hurt you or make digs at you...challenges are are stepping stones to the bigger and better things I want you to have...” “But what good did the things that happened to me, did for me?” thought Sam. “Are you sure it didn't serve you any good?.....okay think what would have happened if you married a girl who didn't want you as much as she wanted materialistic things in life...would you be happy with that...or would you be happy with a job that you hate...but didn't have the courage to leave and pursue your passion and start that restaurant you always dreamt of having?....just think would your parents be happy seeing you in so much pain and ruining it all?....Sam you only get a chance at life, why be sad at what you lost...instead why can't you be excited of what is to come in future?” Sam looked at God and said “I understand what you want to say God....I wish I understood all this before instead of crying over what had already had happened...I wish I had another shot at life...”. God said smiling “your wish is granted Sam...you were never dead actually, I just wanted to talk to you...now that I have, don't forget what I told you...love life and listen to your heart”. At this very point Sam realized they had reached the horizon..he could hear a loud music in the background...the sun had risen and all he could see was light and that was it.
Sam slowly opened his eyes, the light from the window was falling straight on his face...he sat up shocked, not knowing what had just happened... “was I really dreaming all that” thought Sam. He picked up the ringing mobile now..it was from his friend who was back in the city and he wanted to meet him for a new business he wanted to start..a multi-cuisine restaurant....and he wanted Sam to manage it. It was 1.30 pm, Sam tried to think exactly what had happened last night. Apparently he was very sad and had finished a bottle of whiskey...he wanted to end the pain, so he then took four sleeping pills with the last glass of whiskey. And after 15 hours of non-stop sleep and a bad bad headache...he was over his pain and thankful to god for his life . He was happy that he was getting another shot at life. But he was sad that he won't be able to see Pari now. Thats when somebody pressed the door bell. Sam opened the door and found a beautiful cute smiling girl with dimpled cheeks in pink tee and blue jeans. “Hi, I just moved into 502...I was thinking if you can help me move things around.. I mean if you are free....its a mess in there and I couldn't do it alone” said the girl with the dimpled cheeks. Sam couldn't say no (of course), so he said “Surely am free....just give a minute..let me get my chappals”. He then followed the girl to her flat, it was a mess inside with with boxes all around. “By the way, what was your name again?” asked Sam. “Oh sorry I totally forgot to tell you my name...anyways...Hi I am...Pari...Pari Roy...and whats your name?” said the girl. The name triggered the obvious thoughts, Sam closed his eyes for a second, then looked at Pari and smiled (he had got his answer); he then said “I am Sameer Sen...but you can call me Sam”. They both started placing things around the house...they joked and laughed together and enjoyed each other's company. The only thing Sameer speaking to himself was "God and his ways are way to kool man".

2010-06-08T22:49:00.002+05:30

All set For The Most Beautiful Game in the World

Don’t get any wrong ideas I am talking about World Cup Football 2010

After four years of endless wait ‘the most beautiful game in the world’ is back. Yes I am talking about the Football World Cup. This time it’s making its debut on African soil. On June 11, 2010 South Africa will become the first country from the continent to host the World Cup.

The tournament will see 32 teams competing to get their hands on that most coveted golden trophy in the world of football. This year will see the all-time highest participation from the African continent, with 6 nations in the final draw. But in the presence of European and South American power houses of the game, there is little chance on any of them to make it to the next round. But hey I am ready of surprises this time. There are other countries like Japan, Australia (Who believe it or not qualified from Asia), both Koreas, New Zealand, USA, Mexico, etc. who would like to make a name for themselves in this world cup.

Well the tournament favorites are as usual Brazil (They are like Australia of Cricket), who are at numero uno in rankings. They have the star studded side coached by Dunga. And they have the most number of World Cup titles no doubt they are the favorites. With a strong team and exceptional players like Kaka, Gilberto and Fabiano, they will surely bring the Brazilian flair and will make other teams sweat.

Following them is Spain, who is no.2 in the world. But the problem with them is that they always seem to have a great team of individuals who always fail as a team. With good players like Torres, Fabregas, Casillas and Villa, they will try and make an impact this time round.

Besides them there are European England, Germany, Holland, France and Italy who all are also considered strong contenders for the title. These teams known for their strong technical game with which they can demolish any side.

And how could I forget Argentina; they have a force to reckon with in this world cup. The team is coached by a gentleman with whom I share my first name, the legendary Mr. Armando Diego Maradona (The Best All-time Footballer in the World). Although they had a tough qualification rounds, one can never write off Argentina with stars like Messi, Teves and Vernon in their ranks. By the way….Mr. Maradona was the inspirational captain of the team when they last won the cup in 1986 (My Birth Year….that’s how I got the name you see).

Sadly though this year the world cup is injury plagued with many of the biggest players missing. Among those who will be missed most are Mr. Free kick Beckham (he is injured….ohh god not again…hope his wifey Posh is not responsible), crazy dribbler Ronaldinho (he was not selected…can u believe that????....give him a Indian Passport for god’s sake), goal machine Nistelrooy (he retired..poor chap..his pension is still pending), pillar of defence Ferdinand (injured in while training…tried too many slide tackles I guess), road roller Ballack (Poor chap got hit by a mad man named Boetang) to name a few. But still it’s going to be a spectacle, no doubt and mind you the…..World Will be Watching.

And we do it again!!

2010-05-13T22:19:00.002+05:30

When India lost their third consecutive match in the ongoing T20 World Cup, the first thing that came to my mind was…..Oh god we did it again!! And I know those who follow Indian cricket would have felt the same. By now you might have read about all the possible dissection/s of India’s performance in yet another World event. Well I am sorry…Team India…I am going to do the same. (And I have the right to do so…I am a Indian you see…and all Indians are born Cricket Experts)

Let me list down the prime reasons for poor performance in World T20 2010:

Firstly, we have a selection panel that can’t look beyond a bunch of 16 players and if you question them the best answer they would give you is “This is the best we have”.

Secondly, we had worst series of events prior to our Team’s departure-yes I am talking about IPL fiasco.

Thirdly, the cricket control board of the country is not serious about competing in any World Tournament-how else can you describe denying having any practice matches prior to the start of the tournament. We all know the only thing that concerns BCCI is making money.

Fourthly, as we all know success is 50% attitude and 50% hard work- Indian players had none. It seemed as if the players went there for an all-expenses paid holiday and they aren’t concerned about how they do in a match. It was unbelievable to see the way the team fielded…. batted & bowled…. It seemed bunch of school kids were playing out there.

And those who talk about player burnout and stuff like that… my question to them is what would these cricketers had done if they were not playing cricket for their national team. Well, the answer is working like a common man- 9 hours a day…6 days a week…for the whole year. So if you are a professional cricketer you are expected to be fit and play to your full potential for your country.

I end here with a hope that We as Cricket Fans would get to see our Men In (Dark) Blue in full colors and doing well.

Source: NDTV

Roger Federer: Is He the Greatest Tennis Player?

2009-06-10T16:00:00.001+05:30

On Sunday (7th June 2009), Roger Federer created history by becoming only the sixth man ever to win all the four singles grand slam titles. The Swiss maestro achieved this feat by outclassing Swede Robin Soderling 6-1, 7-6(1), 6-4 in the Roland Garros final on Sunday. This victory meant that Federer equaled Pete Sampras’ all-time record of 14 major singles titles. It was Federer’s first French open title after appearing in four finals but failing to win on three previous occasions (Falling to Nadal). Now that he at last has achieved to win at Ronald Garros, the question is…Is he the Greatest ever? Is he better than Rod Laver, Bjorn Borg or Pete Sampras? Well, he shares the record of 14 major singles titles with Sampras, but does that make him the greatest? Rod Laver won all four grand slams, not once but twice in 1962 and 69. Borg could have broken all records if he had not retired from the game at age of 25. And Sampras achieved the feat facing few of the greats of the game like McEnroe, Agassi, Lendl and Federer himself. Federer has age at his side and can go on to make a new record. But the greatest test for Federer is still the Spaniard Rafael Nadal. Federer has a poor record against Nadal, with only 7 wins from 20 encounters. Add to that Federer has never beaten Nadal in French open. He probably got an advantage this time as Nadal went out in the fourth round. Besides he was not at his best, he had fight hard against Tommy Haas, del Porto and Monfils. But probably that is what true champions are made of….they continue to fight even when they are not at their best. So his achievements so far, are extraordinary but he still needs to do more to be remembered as the greatest the game has ever seen. For now he is a great player of our era.

Source: ATP, Times Of India