Rahul Aithal

Hang Gliding

2012-02-05T04:19:00.000-08:00

Road spiraled to the mountain top,

high and lonely,

geared for a sweet drop,

deep valley, magical streams appeared tiny,

fear wobbled over the mighty air,

in bird's territory,

wings glided beyond aware.

Timeline

2012-01-14T21:06:00.000-08:00

Having seen in black and white,

I move into the technological zone,

new colours; bold and bright,

I reminisce about the generation old,

would I have opted for video games then,

if I were offered cyber space?

would these kids now play them,

if otherwise provided open place?

things joyed us long ago are not yet extinct,

if seen, felt with new set of eyes,

hands change as the clock ticks,

setting new trends, benchmarks, styles,

unfair to compare the present with the past,

it's just a timeline that's sped too fast.

Nocturnal

2012-01-07T20:17:00.001-08:00

In the night I awake with his squeaks,
quivering nose he scampers around,

and I with my broom and stick,

the trap with a cheese, an open-fridge,

the race with the rat is once again set,

on my battlefield, on his playground,

he the prankster, me the pet.

Untailor

2011-12-05T23:27:00.000-08:00

Stitched of a false mask,

buttoned with colourful threads,

I'm needled to last,

hold me not liable if I don't live up to the label,

an honourable suit weighs much,

tough to iron out wrinkled ends,

leave me untaiolred,untouched.

Rolling Marbles

2011-10-25T21:41:00.001-07:00

On a quiet street corner boys roll marbles,

nor heat nor dust can pause those sweet thuds,

which resonate off the wall,

till the shadows stretch long.

Cleaving

2011-10-06T06:54:00.001-07:00

Err not these inks ere they vaporize,

my quill has raised the spirits that once were razed,

I write to be wise but you think me otherwise,

eyes aged with rum, burn every page,

wonder what's stronger when this heart of mine bleeds,

love that pours from your jar, seldom ajar

or tears that needle when you leave me in needs.

A Question

2011-09-17T23:16:00.001-07:00

With a heavy load he trots to school,

bulging knowledge but shoulders droop,

here it ends, here it begins,

yet another day of battle with books,

how this chore that once brought amuse,

when thrill aroused just by peruse,

has now become a substance to gauge,

and joy remains only in muse,

devil exam creeps in the slumber,

keeps eyes open to chase some numbers,

a cruel race without a finish line,

one not learns but just remembers,

little spider is caught in it's own web,

needs an hour-glass that is sand-less.

Fox (Tanka)

2011-09-10T11:59:00.000-07:00

Pair of green eyes

hounds deep in the jungle

shadows every move

till hunt appears close
camouflages the intent.

Ebb And Flow

2011-09-02T20:25:00.001-07:00

I ask the sea to reveal her secrets,

but hear not the music when she sings,

I see the ripple that every wave creates,

and sight not the offer that each tide brings,

tasteless is life in absence of mystery,

and lonely is a pebble without a shore,

why be empty of love and humour?

sea remains unchanged as waters ebb and flow.

The Falcon

2011-08-12T09:23:00.000-07:00

High atop a snowy mountain,

air filled with hunter's silence,

alert to it's foxy prey,

the royal falcon waits,

a serpent wriggles unaware

of the danger that circles above,

senses the shadow a wee bit late,

becomes the food in jungle's bowl,

the falcon dives at a matchless speed,

talons drawn for fiery need,

pounces on the slippery snake,

how so venomous,now so pale,

beware of the flight of the falcon,

swift, fierce and eager to kill.

One Guy Less

2011-07-11T17:42:00.001-07:00

How we strive to mould,

to fit him into our maze,

envious of his conduct,

and the guilt-free face,

he won't mourn for miseries we create,

nor awe at our breathless pace,

in the crowd he's just one guy less,

but he eyes us as already dead.

Nice

2011-06-26T05:26:00.001-07:00

Cranes squeak with laughter early morning in Nice,

hover around my balcony that overlooks the beach,

shop-keepers clank open the shutters,

and coffee lingers longer in the air,

come alive those small streets and lanes,

as sunlight announces a long bright day,

beige rocks on white pebbles shore,

along run long stretches of broad promenade,

few miles down is Monte Carlo,

sleek yachts sway to rocking parties,

life here shifts to top gear,

and spurs you on with a new set of feet,

I bow, my sensors tuned for optimum reach,

lest I miss this subtle charm of Nice.

Switzerland

2011-06-03T07:53:00.001-07:00

Red swiss train spirals the country-side,

looking out of the big window I see nature passing by,

milk and wool graze on vast open fields,

snow braces clouds over the deep green valleys,

wooden cottages with their smoking chimneys,

bed of lilies form a ring around them,

a river runs along the fields, rails, bridges,

long stretched piers to sit and fish,

I feel I'm living in a post card,

painted and framed on God's canvas,

the locomotive hisses past the alpine trees,

through dark tunnels at a gentle speed,

in the big glass I reflect of amaze and wonder,

to this land of Swiss I surrender.

Fall (Haiku)

2011-04-08T20:26:00.000-07:00

Red earth calls to wind

a withered tree sparkles

shawl of crisp sepia

The Quake - 10/03/11 (Tanka)

2011-03-18T06:23:00.000-07:00

Earth rumbled deep down

the sea unleashed fury

homes and souls submerge

but wail not my rising sun

this dark night soon we shall pass

Return (Senryu)

2011-03-05T23:26:00.000-08:00

Rum not deep enough
a dry sigh wandered
then I found myself

The Number Game

2011-02-27T20:29:00.000-08:00

It's that time of the year when TVs are switched off, malls and restaurant are neglected, temples become crowded, and the atmosphere turns grim. It's exam-time. Parents exchange notes with teachers and other parents to check if their son/daughter is well-prepared. Nerves go a notch higher. The student, actually is pretty cool until he/she is dragged onto this panic train. And suddenly this cool dude feels the pressure which otherwise would have handled it quite well in his/her own style. The number game begins. Every other person becomes your competitor, ready to pounce on that vacant, precious seat with an extra mark. Because of this funny system, rather than nourishing and nurturing the knowledge the education is dumped on your brain. You are not what you would love to be but become what others prefer you to be. With time, cirumstances change, but the game continues.

Stranger-Eyes

2011-02-19T23:14:00.001-08:00

Here I stand,

on these tiny feet at the bus-stop,

my first time aboard,

a ride with unknown,

faces unfamiliar, but look similar,

stranger-eyes stare,

in the haze that surrounds.

Here I stand,

on these big feet at the bus-stop,

I'm just someone,

who tussles with the clock,

caught up like everyone,

in the everlasting maze,

still unaware what lays ahead.

Languor (Song)

2011-02-18T21:02:00.000-08:00

My porch is wet.

It's just a drizzle.

Far away ice mountains

and my malt on the rocks;

sizzle,

quietly in my head,

they sound distant.

I close my eyes,

and feel oozy.
Life is getting slower.

It's languor.

I am, just a bit high,

but warm in the chill,

as the sun dips behind.

Whiskey clinks on ice,

I smile and say,

'hey,

I am with you,

tonight.'

It's languor.

A Flip

2011-02-04T16:47:00.000-08:00

What door to knock on?

my thirst wanders and sighs,

which fire more fierce?

of the tavern or,

within you that resides,

know not if one drowns

the pain of the other,

or would the memory

ache and linger,

the ride unknown and lonely,

my lesser fate awaits

a flip of the coin to decide.

Ephemeral Woman

2011-02-02T07:01:00.001-08:00

The armour of love cracks,

maudlin tears,

in abundance,

fill the gaps.

She touched,

in a way unknown,

left me to rust,

my ephemeral woman.

A Lonely Drive

2011-01-25T19:01:00.001-08:00

Dark rainy night,

a car cruises on a deserted road,

wipers try to swish away the blur,

stereo plays rock n roll,

deep valleys await on narrow turns,

the car slows, a crack from above

lights up a white clad figure,

long black hair falling over the face,

sits cross-legged in the middle of the road, unmoved,

the car races ahead screeching right through,

the figure rotates it's head and stares,

blood flows from the long teeth,

it's laughter chilling the air,

rear-view mirror reflects the pale green eyes,

look frightened seeing no one inside,

screams, but music blares on.

Happy Birthday To Me

2011-01-25T18:13:00.001-08:00

A streak of grey sets me apart,

adds a year, lessens the prime,

but I age not at heart,

for a mischievous bubble resides.

Are You Drinking Tonight? (Song)

2011-01-15T23:04:00.000-08:00

I wake up in the afternoon, disoriented,

takes few minutes to know where I am,

red eyes tell me that I'm still alive,

one more night of my lonely life.

I pick up the phone and ask,

hello there, how are you?

are you drinking tonight?

I can't hear but can see you smile.

I take a shower, the water piping hot,

feel it in my veins, last night's pain,

harder I push, stronger it returns,

gotta do this one last time, all over again.

I oil my hair, wear the same clothes,

say good-bye to no one, pick up the car keys,

I will come back, I promise myself,

one hand on my heart, the other holding whiskey.

Are you drinking tonight?

Will you drink with me tonight?

Bygone

2011-01-09T09:08:00.001-08:00

My last days drift in solitude,

every hour, every night reminds me of you,

the places where we used to sit,

linger in my mind,

what wouldn't I do for one more visit,

and to go back in time,

just to give you a beautiful rose,

you loved so much,

and whisper in your soft ears,

that though I was never alone,

I have been lonely,

all these years.

7:47 Andheri Local

2011-01-08T01:04:00.001-08:00

First time I commuted by train to go to work, was in 1989. The train I boarded, started from Andheri station at 7:47 A.M.(so it was called 7:47 Andheri local). On my first day, I was flooded with 'stranger-stares' by the regular office-goers. I found my newspaper and the ceiling fans in the train, more comforting. These daily travelers sensed my uneasiness. And after a week of commuting by the same train, I was adopted by this tribe. Soon I found myself cracking silly jokes, discussing sports, listening to business and politics, sharing movie gossips and occasionally; singing. The train journey took about 45 minutes. Some guys read, some dozed. Some just blabbered like us. We addressed each other with our 'train pet names'. Almost all of us were from different professions. Sometimes our intense talks led to heated arguments and then to quarrels. But, like in all husband-wife fights; nobody bothered solving them.

We were like a big family. Twice in year we all went out for dinner at some restaurant. Basically to get drunk and let ourselves loose.

Years zipped by. Commuters changed, fashions changed, our talks changed. But life in the train remained the same.

Never did I imagine that I would be travelling by the same train for the next twenty years or so.

A Walk By The Graveyard

2011-01-05T07:02:00.000-08:00

There lies the school teacher, strict, severe,

now so serene, so quiet in here,

alongside the school gardener,

partners in crime; now, forever.

And that gangster who broke the limbs,

beside the doctor who mended them.

Here lies the policeman with his eluding nemesis,

who has finally caught up with him.

And the actor, larger than life,

performing the last act, rehearsing his line,

next to the beggar who stole or begged for hunger,

and roamed the streets for shelter,

has found one, a closed one.

And an empty grave where I would finally lay,

but till such time I will live and play.

The Devil

2010-11-27T02:26:00.000-08:00

Evil of mind, that in-breeds hate,

locks unwind which love create,

ghosts haunted the dream to grave,

most feared and fed are those thoughts' face.

Facts falsify that, imaginations dread,

tracks that devil, not yet, dead.

Lies now, guilt buried deep,

eyes terror those, aren't asleep.

Note : Read from right to left for a different meaning.

Urchin

2010-11-26T19:22:00.000-08:00

At the railway station I pass him by,

dishevelled hair, ragged clothes,

but a lovely smile.

Amidst the chaos, he finds amuse,

of this helter skelter pace,

and aimless commute.

Where, I survive the times of trends,

and a dual with the clock;

he lives in moments.

Water Rafting (Sri Lanka, 2010)

2010-11-20T20:12:00.000-08:00

There is a long stretch of winding road all the way up the mountains. Somewhere the road splits and one part slopes down a few hundred meters and stops at an open area. A small shack stands in a corner surrounded by massive trees and few watercrafts. The place is famous for water sports. As I approached the shack, a man walked out. He was the owner. After some bargaining we arrived at a price for water rafting. I changed into a swim-wear and put on a life jacket. To reach the river I had to climb down the valley for about fifty feet. A stone path wading through the jungle. Slippery. Two guys were assigned to me. As we were climbing down I saw the raft being slid down on a rope-way. We reached the river and got into the raft. I was given an oar and shown how to use it. The raft was quite comfortable. We began moving with the current. Soon it picked up speed and so did my pulse. I did a couple of haphazard strokes with the oar. Just ahead I could see a small rapid. Two guys who had come along instructed me on how to tackle the rapid. They told me to lean inside the raft if I went off-balance. Suddenly the water splashed all over me. My first blind date with a rapid. My adrenaline was pumping hard. This was terrific stuff. Excitement at it's peak. I gripped the raft and managed to maintain my balance, but soon we were approaching a bigger rapid. It came too fast and before I could react I had fallen, fortunately inside the raft. The two guys were laughing now and I found myself laughing with them. They said three more to come; larger ones. I stopped laughing. But, much to my surprise, I handled the bigger ones quite well. They were amazed and congratulated me.The last rapid was the biggest and the most challenging one. They warned me that I might fall into the river and if I did, I was to do nothing. The life jacket would keep me afloat and the current would take care of the swimming part. Wow, I thought; they make it sound so easy. I braced myself for the encounter. This time the rapid came on to us like a big wave. I gritted my teeth in determination and vowed that I will not fall into the river. The rapid attacked us as if taking up the challenge. Our battle lasted for ten long seconds and I triumphed. I was jubilant. I was a pro. I raised my hands in the air and almost knocked one guy over with the oar. Now we were all laughing and the sensation was rejuvenating. Last mile of the river and there were no more rapids. They told me I could jump into the river and swim if I wanted to. The current had reduced to a gentle flow. I jumped and started floating. I lied down on my back with the life jacket on. Up, far away, I could see the mountains. The sun was breaking through the dark night. I could see the whole river, up from where I had traveled, to all the way down here. The scene was breathtaking. But something else had just taken my breath away.

Cigarette

2010-11-06T20:43:00.001-07:00

As you hold me to impress,

the first error is made.

You use me in depress,

when nerves have frayed.

You roll me with your tongue,

and slowly inhale,

I will enter your lung,

to break and frail.

I ease your pressure,

and calm your fears.

I become your treasure

and lessen your years.

I am your breath,

you are my life,

I am your death,

will cut like a knife.

Your days start with me,

I am an addictive device.

Now you can't part with me,

as I become your vice.

On your death-bed and energy seeping,

you curse, calling me heartless.

Your eyes swollen-red and weeping,

I smile, seeing you breathless.

Flower-girl

2010-11-05T10:45:00.000-07:00

My car stops at the signal. I curse the traffic as I wait for the signal to turn green. I'm in a hurry to reach home. I'm not driving but sitting at the back. I hear a knock at the driver-side window. A tiny hand goes up and down in rhythm. I can't see who it is that is knocking so I crane to have a better look. I see a flower-girl carrying a small basket of roses. When she sees me, she runs around and comes over to my side. She picks a beautiful red rose from the basket and offers it to me. I ask, how much? She says, 5 Rs. I give her 10 Rs. So she asks, you want two or should I give 5 Rs. back? I'm about to say two but change my mind. Instead, I tell her to keep the balance 5 and ask her to eat something. She tilts her head and smiles. It is the most beautiful smile that I've ever seen. It melts my heart and I wish that the signal remains red so I could ask her about her family. But she waves and scurries off.

From thereon, it becomes a routine for me. I actually wait for her to come and give me a rose everyday. It brings back the energy in me. This goes on for several days and one fine day she doesn't turn up at the signal. I get restless so I enquire about this little flower-girl. It seems she has no real family living here. A married couple bought flowers from her regularly. Like me, they were quite fond of this little girl. Since they had no children of their own, yesterday they had come and adopted her.

Unshackled

2010-10-29T20:12:00.000-07:00

Willy manages to get up .The shoes are shackled to one another with heavy chains. He wobbles but doesn't fall. He takes a deep breath and steadies himself. Still not in complete control. He takes a step forward. Can't take a long stride. The chains drag along the ground with heavy sound. Willy feels dizzy, like after a few drinks. He smiles and walks slowly. Clang! Clang! Clang!.. Better. People around stare at him but Willy looks straight ahead. Walk! Walk! Walk! He starts feeling lighter. Willy is released from the last of his emotional burdens. He is no more answerable to anyone nor he needs to prove anything to anyone. Great! Willy can finally do what he wants to do. But the shackles? He looks down. Shackles have disappeared. Willy is amused. Bad memories? Well, good luck to new life! He marches on......

The Hammock

2010-10-25T09:20:00.000-07:00

There are fifty seven stone-steps going down into the jungle. They open out into a square surrounded by huge trees. A hammock swings between, probably two of the oldest but strongest trees of the forest. These trees go almost hundred feet up into the sky. Just beyond the hammock a stream flows making a rippling sound as it rolls on the pebbles.

I climb down the last step, take off my haversack and lie on the hammock. The sun comes up from behind the mountains creating a golden glow. With the chirping of birds the jungle is waking up. Wind picks up and swings the hammock. I close my eyes and think I could lie down here forever.

A Game Of Chess

2010-08-21T19:23:00.001-07:00

Life is like a game of chess. The Little cubs wait in a line to move ahead. They are well protected by the family members who stand behind them. These pieces may play different roles in the game but their ultimate goal is to win. They face various challenges from the opposition. Some perish while doing so.

Lion is the king of the jungle. He sits idly watching the battle in progress.Lioness is the all powerful one. She uses all her killer instinct and skills to hunt. The family lives in a castle which forms a solid base around the Lion. The two lithe commanders add power to the force. Combined with the Lioness, they plunder the enemy and help the little cubs create a path and reach their destinies. The quest to gain and win is constantly on. The knights with the shining armours and their foxy tricks add glitter to this intriguing game. Some cubs manage to cross the border and become just like one of their ancestors. Or die in pursuit. Life ends but the jungle lives on forever.

My Lunch Date

2010-08-17T18:33:00.001-07:00

I was in Goa. It was about 1 o'clock in the afternoon. I had already walked for more than two hours, here and there, looking around, doing nothing, relaxing, enjoying, and generally having a good time with myself. I was feeling hungry. I spotted a restaurant," Fisherman's Cove ", went in and took a table over-looking the road. I ordered a bowl of egg fried rice and a fresh lime soda. As I was waiting for my lunch to arrive, I spotted a young girl with her parents entering the restaurant. The girl gave me a cute smile. Instinctively, I waved back. They took a table across. The girl kept looking at me while her parents ordered their lunch. And soon enough she got up and walked towards my table. I nodded and offered her a seat. Again that dimply smile. I looked up at her parents. Her mom asked whether it was alright with me? I said 'of course'. I asked for one more plate and a spoon. The girl mumbled something I couldn't follow. When my food arrived, I put some rice into her plate. She seemed quite happy. She thanked me with her mischievous eyes. She seemed a bit uncomfortable so I asked for some extra cushions to be placed on her chair. She finally settled into her seat and I indicated that now we were on eye-level. So I talked and she listened. I cracked all sorts of funny jokes and she kept laughing all the while. She was quite amused by my behavior. I was having a great time. I was, as I usually am, at my hilarious best, when in a company of good a looking woman and more so if it happens to be a three year old beautiful girl. The spoon was a little big for her so I asked for a smaller one. She was excited to get her own tiny spoon. And when I put some chilli sauce in my fried-rice, she also wanted some. I had to mimic that it was so very hot and spicy. I couldn't do it properly but she understood and showed me in her own version how it was done. And when I imitated her, she laughed.

The lunch got over and my date got up and went to sit with her parents. I asked for the bill. I paid and was about to go, when to my amazement, she stood up on her chair, turned, looked at me and waved good-bye. I was surprised. How was it possible?

The Cherry Tree ( 1967-80)

2010-07-14T08:07:00.000-07:00

There was a cherry tree in my backyard. When I was ten years old, I learned to climb it. Me and couple of my friends. Some didn't, and I thought not because they feared climbing, but to avoid the scolding they might get from their parents if they were found climbing the tree. The tree produced quite juicy cherries and enough to tempt us to climb, so they always told me, since I never tasted them. I climbed for the sheer thrill of it. I felt I might not like the the taste of those 'too sweet cherries' and that would eventually put me off from climbing the tree again. We climbed right on top, at least twenty feet high to get those cherries. Then we filled our pockets and I would give my share to the boys who waited down anxiously. These boys were called 'The Watchers'. Their job was to watch out for people who were likely to stop us from climbing the tree.

There was this old lady or 'The old witch' as we used to call her. She would scream her head off if she saw us climbing the tree as if she owned the tree or us. And so, one 'Watcher' was specially recruited to watch out for her. All the watchers were given equal share of the loot. And they were quite faithful. They never ran away or scampered leaving us stranded. Yeah, they would warn us well in advance and it was our job to climb down fast and run. If they failed to spot or warn us in advance, they were given a mild punishment like, they were to miss their share next time.

There was a wall of about twenty feet high, almost hugging the cherry tree, which separated the neighbours' backyard from us. Top of the wall was covered with sharp pieces of glasses which were dug deep into the wall. so one could not stand on the wall for support. Few branches of the cherry tree crossed over the wall and reached the neighbours' side. So sometimes, while on the cherry tree, we did back and forth across and over the wall from our backyard to the neighbours'. And on one of the off days when 'The watchers' couldn't warn us in advance, we would jump over to our neighbour's compound. It was risky since those branches were thin and not capable of taking the weight of two people, specially when we would be in panic state. But we felt safer doing that than getting caught by ' the old witch'.

And one day one of my friends fell off the tree and broke his arm. I bore the maximum brunt of the shouting, second only to the boy who was badly hurt and in pain.

We stopped climbing the cherry tree till the boy recovered and was ready to join us again.

This went on for few years and I never really became old enough to stop climbing.

When I was thirteen, the cherry tree was finally cut down. I had climbed the evening before not knowing it would be my last climb. I remember, for some reason I sat on the tree for a very long time. I had not filled my pockets with cherries for 'the watchers' since that day there were none. Next day, the tree was razed. But not from my memory.

I still suspect ' the old witch' had something to do with it....

A Letter To God.

2010-07-03T23:18:00.000-07:00

Hello God. I am having a wonderful life out here. And you are taking good care of me. Thank you.

Occasionally, I do fall sick with depression, anxiety and fear. Sorry to be selfish, but I remember you only during those times. But invariably you have come to help me regain my balance and control.

One day I slipped my anchor and was all at sea. You did not come for a very long time. Sorry God but I had almost given up on you when, out of nowhere, you appeared to steady my ship.

Now, I have thought of telling you something and hence this letter. I have decided to be with you at all times. And it's been a lovely experience. Those evil elements which have haunted me every now and then in the past, are frequenting less now. And if at all they come, they disappear seeing you around. And sometimes when they linger on, I am able to tackle them with ease.

If you think I have become even more selfish by staying with you for ever, I am sorry. But my reasons are purely on the faith you have bestowed upon me. I am overwhelmed in your company and I don't want to lose you ever again.

Once again God, thank you for taking care of me. I have made up my mind to spend the rest of my life with you. Now, I am awaiting your answer. Please don't say no.

Truly yours.

Holi

2010-03-05T20:48:00.001-08:00

Soft colours caress the face,

people greet with warm embrace,

water-balloons in joyful menace,

quelling stale and ill grudges.

Dance,music,paints of wonder,

love floats on sweet elixir,

splashing barrels of colourful water,

Holi sweets; the beginning of summer.

Journey

2009-12-15T17:28:00.001-08:00

Feeling bored of a routine life,

one fine day I took a long train ride.

I packed my bag,

and hailed a cab,

reached the station,

booked my destination.

As the train arrived,

people began jostling,

and the pleasure it derived,

chugging and whistling.

Farewell and goodbye,

and the mood upbeat,

with spirits turning high,

I settled into my seat.

Sad looked few,

leaving their hometown,

with Energy anew,

were homeward bound.

Soon began the long journey,

leaving the bustling city behind,

in no hurry to reach early,

and no labour-work to grind.

No teachers and bosses to berate,

we pretty strangers so unlike,

time for lovely things to ruminate,

children and adults all alike.

I looked out of the open window,

as the train rolled past a flushing meadow,

what a lovely country-side,

vast and green open and wide.

Nature's beauty to see and sense,

so different from the city of pretense.

few snaps shot for my memories,

to relax and enjoy in my reveries.

Up the mountain and then down the hill,

the train sped and moved like a windmill.

As it snaked through the forest and sparkling streams,

it awakened a beauty which was dormant in my dreams.

the spirits of pixie woke up as if,

a call from the childhood full of mischief.

A shift in attitude,

a change in life's motive,

all the gratitude,

gift of this locomotive.

Few passengers in the compartment,

were sleeping as if in an apartment.

Wake up mister, don't doze your head,

if you miss this you are as good as dead.

Train moves after various stops,

life halts with as many drops.

wish my life was like a train,

at full throttle even in pain.

loaded with a strong horse-power,

but soft aromatic like a flower.

Train came to it's final stop,

As I alighted with a tear drop.

Felt my hiccups had been mended,

I wish the journey had not ended.

The First Dove.

2009-07-03T06:29:00.001-07:00

It's morning, and the doves are waiting.

On the roof tops, on the tree, waiting for the food which would be arriving.

I enter the temple, there is a flutter of noise,

I look up and find these birds sitting in a poise.

I scatter the peanuts on the ground,

they get restless and hungry but are scared to come down.

Hoot and cry but afraid to take the plunge,

Finally a dove decides, I will be the one.

Gracefully it floats and lands near my feet,

Others watch anxiously, but still don't come to eat.

The dove takes a bite and relishes the food,

and then others scamper down to share the loot.

Eat and eat, now they are a cheerful bunch,

bellies are full with a delightful brunch.

Opening their beaks thirstily they fly back to the tree top,

waiting to quench the thirst with the first rain drop.

Happy birthday to me

2009-01-25T00:16:00.001-08:00

I am 42 years young today and it feels great. I remember two years back Kamala had organized a surprise party for my 40^th birthday. She put in a great effort to keep it a secret. She hired a room at a pub called ‘On Toes’ and told all my childhood friends, train friends and office guys to be there by 9 p.m.. In the morning of my birthday, she said that there was a friend’s wedding anniversary party to be attended in the evening and we must go there for few hours. I got pissed off and told her didn’t she know it was my birthday and I wanted to spend time with her. She just smiled. In the evening she led me to this place. I was fuming all the while thinking how to escape from this anniversary party early. She opened the door of this pub called ‘On Toes’ and I saw familiar faces smiling at me. I was taken aback. Everyone shouted “SURPRISE”! I was too stunned to realize it was my birthday party and those were my dear friends. I looked at Kamala and she burst out laughing. It was one of the best and biggest surprises I have ever had. And believe me; she did this right under my nose without me getting a whiff of it. Womanly thoroughness.( Although she still suspects that I was aware of it). Niyoshi had an amused look on her face. She had known this all the while but hadn't utter a word.

It was by far the best parties I have ever had. Booze was overflowing and so was I along with some good old music of our times. Rod Stewart, Sting, Clapton, Brian Adams, Dire Straits, Michael Jackson and many of my other favourites. I am pretty sure Kamala would have chosen the music too. It was nice to see guys who are normally pretty reserved in a dance party, open up and occupy the dance floor. It was a party to remember. It is a sweet distant memory and I cherish those memories.

The fisherwoman

2009-01-22T07:51:00.000-08:00

One fine morning I was walking on the beach. Since it was low tide I decided to walk towards the sea. Somewhere close I saw a strange sight. There were some fishermen gathered around the fishes they had caught in their nets. In the middle there was one fisherwoman standing with her biggest catch of the day placed near her feet. She was sipping a hot cup of tea and with the other hand she was eating a soft (khaari) biscuit. She was talking animatedly with someone on a cell phone which a small boy was holding to her ears. Others around her were clapping and chatting excitedly amongst one another appreciating the big fish the fisherwoman had caught. This went on for about 20 minutes and I just stood there, let my eyes skate over the scene, gazing at everybody all the while. It was a big day in the fisherwoman’s life and she was obviously enjoying it and so probably sharing it with everyone. Few joggers also stopped by to admire the big fish and this further encouraged the fisherwoman. I requested her to pose for a photo for me with tea in one hand and biscuit in the other, the small boy still holding the cell phone for her and her latest acquisition displaying around her feet for approval. I said “Smile”! And she gave me one of the most beautiful and sweetest smiles that I would ever see.

Life Ain't Bitch.

2009-01-16T07:02:00.000-08:00

Hello and welcome to 2009. The year 2008 was quite adventurous and educative in every sense. People around have become quite literate. Now even a paanwallah knows what is an ‘economic crisis’. No need to spend money on a business school. All thanks to glorified but sophisticated casino called ‘Stock Exchange’. I do love the colour of money but 2008 has forced me to look beyond it. Now, I might have one nickel less this year but what the heck; it saves me the time which otherwise I would have wasted on watching movies (Oh boy! How are they promoting now!) , or going to the bars or buying unwanted things.

I am thankful to all the gamblers around the world for enlightening me on the value of money. Guys, life without you would be so dull.

When we were kids..

2008-08-30T00:45:00.000-07:00

One day in the year 1979, Asit (15), Rajiv (12), and I (12) decided to have lunch at home. My mom being a teacher left for school. However, before leaving home she gave us strict instructions: “Please see to it that you sit on a chair, keep your food on the table and eat like well behaved boys”. Yes mom! Now, we were wild and reckless but at the same time obedient. So we took a small table, three chairs went to the bedroom placed it all on top of the bed and started eating. The food was chappatis, bhaji and water. Mom came back early. I can’t forget the look in her eyes. She was stunned. She started screaming at us. We (Asit) told her “Well, you told us to place the food on a table, sit on a chair and eat and that’s what we are doing. You never mentioned where to eat”. She was fuming but we were eating.

Whenever Niyoshi, Ayu or Aakarsh ask me to tell them a funny story, this is the one that springs up. So many years have passed but it is still fresh in my mind as if it happened yesterday.

Happy Birthday mom!!

Marathon Party

2008-08-18T08:43:00.000-07:00

On May 17th Kiran, Pradeep, Vinod and I had a sleepover party at my place. We started the session in the afternoon with Vinod cooking food for us and making wine-fruit-punch. We had a couple of beers and went to ‘The Club’ for swim, steam and sauna. After returning, we continued with whiskey, wine and more beers. At around midnight, we decided to visit one of the watering holes and chose ‘J.W.Marriott’. All of us were in our nightdresses and since we were too lazy (drunk) to change, we headed to the bar of this five star hotel in the same attire. I wished that things were always so pure and uncomplicated. After having couple of drinks and listening to Daniel (singer), we purred with happiness. We were made aware that we had worn out our welcome. We drove back cautiously because suddenly we realized that journey was more important than the destination. We felt rejuvenated. More beers flowed along with wine- punch, until about four in the morning. Finally, we slept. Sleep of the just. Woke up at about eleven, showered, had breakfast and decided to have buffet at this same hotel. Beer continued. Came home at around four in the evening and finally decided to call it a day. Wow!! What a party…

Young bloggers

2008-08-05T07:45:00.000-07:00

I am happy that my daughter Niyoshi (11) and nephew Aakarsh (8) have decided to blog. It is good that they have started at an early age. It will improve their writing skills. In addition, it will help them in their thinking, as they would want to write something new every time. Both of them have an interesting style of writing. Quite unique. I guess it is their innocence, which gives them a free hand. Best of luck to both of them.

Zampa

2008-06-15T00:49:00.000-07:00

rumba or samba
after having Zampa

One of my best friends Pradeep, got into the wine business. Now he is as old and sweet as wine. One day he came home and produced two bottles of Zampa. One red, one white....

Initial hiccups
------------------

I'm not much of a wine drinker, but he insisted we (Kamala, Vinod and me) the terrible trio of critics, gave him our frank opinion on his new wine which he was about to launch. He didn't know he was asking for trouble.

Vinod (4 beers down) :" I went to the restaurant called 'Happy' and asked for Zampa. They gave me choice of 'Appy' or old Champa. "
Me (8 beers down ): "I didn't like the red wine. "
Kamala (sober) :" I'm not feeling too well. Could I give you my opinion tomorrow? " .

Hibernating
---------------

Next morning I got up and realized, Zampa the red, didn't leave the lingering bad taste in your mouth, which other red wines do. I messaged Pradeep and told him so. He messaged back saying "thank you". Vinod was a bit drowsy and hung-over and not in the right frame of mind to give the right opinion. Kamala waited. She had her first sip the next day.

The wine grows on us
--------------------------

After our first encounter, we realized that Zampa (especially the white) was delicious. I thought it could become a benchmark drink against which others would be compared. Vinod also, realized that he was too old for old Champa and it was time for him to change over to Zampa, if ever he wanted to feel young. Kamala and her friend Suresh took one sip and were completely sold out. I wished Kamala felt the same for me.(late night we were having the wine and after the bottles were empty, we contemplated going over to Pradeep's house and asking for more).

Price v/s Value
-------------------

Gabbar : "Aarey o Sambha. Kitna inaam rakhe hai sarkar ham par? ".
Sambha :" Pure chaar bottle Zampa! ".
Gabbar : "Suna tumne. Sarkar bhi hamari value samzta hai.Abhi tak haramzada pachaas hazar bolta tha".

ZAMPA!! FACE IT !!

Aakarsh

2008-06-07T02:38:00.001-07:00

It had been a long time since I saw Aakarsh. He is my nephew and lives in USA. He came down to Mumbai with Asit (my brother) and Minoo (my bhabhi). Ayushee (my niece) couldn’t make it because of her entry into medicines. This little boy is lovely. No ways you cannot like him. He had two goals in mind when he landed. (1) To play chess with me and hopefully beat me before he left (2) learn to play cricket.

He came on a Friday, so being a working day I couldn’t go to the airport to receive him. Kamala (my wife) went to fetch him. Since my parents didn’t know they were coming, I called them over to give them a big surprise. They were quite thrilled. By the time I could get back from office, this boy had fallen a sleep. I waited for him to get up. Finally, I was about to close my eyes when there was a big load which fell on me and woke me up. I got up and saw this silly boy laughing at me and shouting “surprise”. I acted as if I had not seen him all this while. I said “oh my! When did you come?” He gave me a weird look and said “Don’t fool Rahulkaka. You already knew it. That’s why kamalakaki came to the airport”. I knew I had it. I was in for a big trouble for the next one and half months or so.

Next day was Saturday. After chatting with him for some time, I told him to sleep. He gave me a sheepish look and told me he was jet lagged and would sleep only if he felt exhausted. Liar. He had already made plans to stay awake the whole night and possibly the next morning till the milkman arrived. This boy is so restless that you can't rest if he is around. My biggest worry was to keep him occupied (which ultimately brought out the kid in me). It was a challenge.

Aakarsh is a boy, with whom everybody wants to talk. He comes out with amazing statements and logic. And for an eight year old, he is very sharp. Niyoshi (my daughter), finds him very cute. Kamala (as always) would go out of the way to help him and play with him. My parents can't keep mum when he is around. So here I was awake with him the whole night. Didn't know who was jet lagged. Next morning, promptly he told me he wanted to take a ride in a rickshaw. I said OK. I called for an auto and told the driver to take wherever he liked. Aakarsh was thrilled.(wherever?)That's unheard of in US. We reached Juhu beach and went for a stroll. He was visibly upset. I asked him what had happened? Was he upset because the beach was dirty? He
said no, he hadn't expected the beach to be clean anyways but he was disappointed because the rickshaw driver was too slow. I said I would drive while coming back. He took it seriously. Anyways, while coming back I caught another rickshaw driver and told him I would pay him 5 Rs. extra if he drove real fast.The driver smacked his lips in anticipation ( getting the extra money from us morons for the thing he would have done anyways).He drove really fast. Aku was overjoyed. I said, imagine only 5 Rs. for what Disney would have charged 50 Dollars.

We came home and Aku was hungry. Anu, our maid (but I would call her our family member) had made Paneer paratha for him. One bite of it and he fell in love with the food and Anu. Now Kamala and Minoo had serious competition. I started wondering if all the boys and the girls were so easy to please. But no, this guy was special. Whenever he expressed a desire to do or have something done and if he enjoyed it, he would give you a feeling as if you had done something really great. I guess life is all about feeling great.

Over the days we had lots of fun, Aakarsh and I. His reasoning and questioning are so forthright that it amazes you and makes you wonder why you hadn't thought of it earlier. He is also a very emotional boy but he keeps it private. On one occasion, he was sitting in the hall and the bell rang. Before he could open the door fully , Niyoshi by mistake open the door from outside and it banged on his head. Immediately tears started rolling down his face. Now I was watching all this but I still asked him what had happened? He immediately protected Niyoshi saying it was just a mistake and refused to tell the details thinking I would scold Niyoshi. But the tears could tell he was hurt. Niyoshi, of course , instinctively fell sorry for him and went on apologizing.

He also has a great sense of humour. Since he was coughing a lot, one day, Kamala gave him a hot pack to put it on his chest. He was lying down. But as soon as he got up, the hot pack skidded down his chest on to the floor. He burst out laughing saying "My boobs just fell! Pick them up will ya?". There was half a minute of stunned silence. Despite the ladies being around, I couldn't help myself and fell off laughing. Top it all, ladies joined both of us and were laughing even more vigorously. Now this is what I call an innocent sense of humour. One can easily be embarassed if one had a rigid mind.

Every evening I would come back from work and he would be ready with his ammunition (either a chess board or a cricket bat). He plays real good chess. He knew most of the moves. Fortunately, I used to play quite a bit of chess when I was in college. And now I had to bring all my memories back to beat this guy. We had our battle lines drawn every evening. Ageing bull against young matador. It wasn't easy though.

Saturdays and sundays we used to play cricket. He loved it so much that he used get up at 6, wait for the first ray of sun light which was his first ray of hope, wear his cricketing gears and order me to teach him to play cricket. Asit was so happy that he took our videos and posted it on his blog. Niyo and Anu also joined us from time to time. Niyo is a good hitter and Aku is a good catcher. We lost lots of cricket balls but he made sure they were replaced. This went on for most of the holidays. Like I said ealier, here is a kid who brings out the kid in you. Pepole who cannot find time for fun are obliged, sooner or later to find time for illness.

Aku, Niyo and Anu jelled very well. They had their share of fun and had lots of secrets to share. I'm sure at our expense. It was a great joy having him here in Mumbai. Like beauty, joy is one of the highest vibration on this planet. The time we spent together brought out the joy that was already inside me to life.

My friend Michael (an episode)

2008-02-27T06:58:00.000-08:00

It’s 4 a.m.. My eyes have opened. No need for alarm nowadays. I’m trying to remember or at least figure out what happened last night. No clue. Never mind. I drag myself out of the bed and go to the kitchen. I open the kitchen cabinet and half a bottle of rum is staring at me. Inviting. Should I or should I not? Oh , what the hell! I take a big gulp and it sails down my throat. There is a glow somewhere in my brain. I feel better. My new day has just begun. I carry the bottle with me to the bedroom. Suddenly my head starts spinning. I fall face down on the floor. But before I hit the floor, I get a sweet smell of rum and then the pain shoots thru my face. It’s blood. I have fallen on the bottle before hitting the floor.

It’s 6 a.m.. I’ve woken up after two hours. There is a throbbing pain. I put my hands on the face and they become sticky with blood. I look myself in the mirror and there is a big gash on my forehead. I go to the bathroom and try to wash my face. Suddenly, I realize that I’ve created enough noise but my family has not got up to check. I run to the living-room only to find it empty. I panic. I find a note lying on the table saying “good-bye!”. I sit on the floor holding my face and begin to cry.

I’m Michael. Age 38. employed (so far). Married to a lovely wife who has produced and even lovelier doll. I adore them. But now, I’m alone. It has been long 20 drinking years. There is enough alcohol in my blood. Most of my friends have deserted me. One or two (still having hopes on me) are with me. And now my family is gone.

I look around and take stock of things. I’m completely busted. I enter the kitchen and start taking out bottles, one by one, from the cabinet. There are eighteen. I bring them all to the bathroom and start smashing them. There is still great pain but I ignore it. I’m determined. After I’m done, I close the bathroom door leaving the broken bottles and the smell inside. I take out cotton from the first-aid box and apply to my face. I take out my wallet and shirt from the cupboard and walk out of the house. I hail a cab and ask the driver, who gives me a horrifying look, to take me to the hospital. I reach the hospital and go straight to the operating room, catch hold of the doctor and ask him to stitch my forehead. He takes a deep breath and tells me to wait for a few minutes for the anaesthetist. I say I can’t wait and plead him to stitch my forehead without anaesthesia. He is bewildered and comes closer to have a better look. I move back a little worrying he would smell alcohol. He starts stitching. I’m prepared to endure any pain now. If my family can endure it for ten years, why can’t I do it for ten minutes? After an agonizing ten minutes, the job is done. The doctor gives me few pain-killers which I put it in my pocket. I pay the doctor, thank him and head home.
It’s 8 a.m. now. There is a stink coming from the bathroom and it doesn’t bother me. I check my forehead and it is stitched as if a cobbler has fixed a shoe. Again there is a shooting pain. I need solitude. I need time to reflect. I walk out of the house and head to the beach.

The beach is hot but I feel nice. I stroll for about twenty minutes and then decide to lie down. There is still pain but nothing as compared to what my family has gone thru. I close my eyes and decide to rest. I see two pairs of watery and pleading eyes begging me to stop ruining my life. I feel sad and tired and soon fall asleep.

I get up with a start and realize that the sun is boring into my skin. There is sand all over my body. I must have slept for a long time but those two pairs of eyes had never left me. I get up and head back home. When I reach it’s 1 p.m.. I return to the carnage. I look at myself in the mirror. My face is full of sand and the forehead (or whatever it is called now) is swollen. I start the hot water in the tub and undress. When I’m naked, I check again in the mirror. But now there is different person staring at me. I smile and he smiles back. Is this a new Michael, I wonder? I can feel it but I can’t prove it. God, give me time to prove it to those two beautiful pairs of eyes! I want them back. Suddenly life has a new meaning. There is great urge inside me to clear things. I’m determined. I start picking up broken glass pieces and clear the floor. After getting rid of the stink and the bottles I get into the hot tub. it feels good. I lean back, smile and start cleaning myself up…..