A Letter to Linkin Park

Dear Linkin Park,

I am writing to you today out of grief and sadness. This is probably something I should’ve done a long time ago. I am so very sorry to hear about Chester’s passing. But to be honest had such circumstances not emerged I do not think I’d be writing to you today.

Even in death Chester taught me a lesson. If there is a poison inside you that is overpowering you - do something about it.

I first encountered Linkin Park’s music in Highschool. I heard Hybrid Theory and absolutely loved it.
I was a shy boy who went to a Christian convent school. Discipline was high, fun was controlled. Your music helped me express myself. Unrestrained, be myself. Scream in the shower on the bad days, sing and dance to the beat on the good.

Before you I was a big fan of Backstreet Boys. In those days I had purchased the cassette (audio tape) of Hybrid Theory and one of the unique things about your tape was the lack of time between the ending of one song and the beginning of the other. The tape virtually played the music like one long symphony. For many days I couldn’t figure out where some songs ended and others began. I used to listen to a bit of Limp Bizkit as well and his songs often had long pauses during or a complete change of beat in the same song which confused me further.

This problem was finally solved when your CDs came out and despite them being expensive I purchased them. Even the font size of the lyrics in the covers were larger so it helped me read the lyrics better.

Even after your success with Hybrid Theory, Meteora and Reanimation, I followed your music religiously. Whenever I heard that LP’s new single or album had released I'd look it up on Limewire (in those days) and download it first thing first. I’d wait till the end of the day when everyone was asleep and then listen to it on my iPod whilst reading the lyrics in perfect solitude. It was beautiful.

Whether it was the beats in ‘Session’ or the words of ‘Little Things Give You Away’, I digested it all sumptuously. By now I had even heard of the success of the side bands like Dead By Sunrise, Fort Minor and began listening to some of their songs as well. ‘Remember the name’, ‘Where’d you go’, ‘Crawl back in’ were some of my favourites. I began reading articles of you - how you originally wanted to name the band 'zero' and then how 'Lincoln Park' became 'Linkin Park'.
But the original LP was the original LP. The music you all made together was far better in my opinion.

In 2014, I had the opportunity to attend your concert in London at the O2 Arena. It was a dream come true. On day one, I attended the concert and sang along with 23 of the 25 numbers you performed. On day two, for which I had purchased the VIP Pass, I had the rare privilege of coming and meeting you all face to face. I was so nervous, I could barely utter out a few polite words. When Chester came before me, all I could do was shake his hand in awe. I heard him talk to the man next to me for the longest time. Just being there was overwhelming enough. Due to which I never got a chance to share with you all just how big a fan of yours I was.

I was studying at Kingston University London that year, doing my masters and used up the money for my graduation (and then some) to purchase those concert tickets. I was in two minds about doing so and it was my father who pushed me into it. He felt it was an opportunity of a lifetime and I shouldn’t miss it. My masters had ended in September and the concert was in late October which meant I would have to book fresh tickets from New Delhi, India to London as well as book accommodation. It was a very expensive trip (and honestly got a little lonely too) but I’ve created a memory that will stay with me forever.

You all do not know how many times I’ve heard your songs. There was a time when the top 5 songs on my ‘Top 25 Most Played’ List were all LP tracks and the No. 6 one was like at least 250 plays behind. 

I should have told you all how grateful I was for it, but I did not. And now, Chester will never know. But you will. 

I am a published author with two books to my name. At one point I even wanted to write a book using different song titles as titles of chapters and dedicate it to Linkin Park. The idea never materialized completely and the unfinished work has found a nice cozy spot in my hard drive.

Below are the pictures of the night at O2 -

                   
 1. Meeting Chester Bennington. 

(I’m the boy in the Blue Shirt.)        

2. Picture of the band with everyone.

The poster you all signed stands smartly framed on the wall in my room. It always reminds me of the sheer bliss I felt those two magical nights in London.

I do not know any of you personally yet I feel so deeply connected to you. But more so to Chester and Mike. There was just something about Chetser, that I know, had we ever hung out, we would’ve simply clicked. The more I read of him, his personality, the way people remember him, the more I relate with him.

My heart grieves for Chester. The world seems a little less brighter after he has passed on. Not only because he’s gone but also because of the way he went out. I idolised him. He inspired me. I never thought he’d be one to commit suicide. I related that with Jimmy Morrison, Kurt Cobain and Amy Winehouse but never Chester Bennington. Just never expected him to do something like that.

It is this reason that drove me to write to you all.
I do not know you, but please believe me when I say, I love you.
Your music and your expressions will be etched in my memory forever.
I stopped being ‘just a fan’ long ago. If ever you feel the desire to share with someone - a random stranger who will listen you non-judgmentally or want some advice or even a place to come stay where you won’t be disturbed. Please look me up. My email ID is anirudhvasdev@gmail.com. I stay in New Delhi, India. I won’t share my contact no. here because I intend to share this letter on the internet. Hopefully it will reach you and even if one of you does read this, its purpose will be served.

You were wrong about one thing, In The End, It Does Matter. Everything does. Chester’s legacy will not be tainted by the way his life ended but it will affect how many in the world saw him.

Please learn to love yourself, more than anything in the world - find happiness within. If what your doing is not helping you be that way, drop it - it is of no use.

Thank you for the music,
It was my companion when I dint have anyone else to share with. Still is sometimes.

Thank you for making the dreams I had dreamt as a little boy come true and sorry I did not share with you sooner. Had I known it was going to be the first and last time I’d meet you, I would’ve handled it very differently.

Stay blessed, stay alive and as my mom says ‘keep drinking water’. Apparently, its good for health or something …

Sincerely,
Yours always,
Anirudh Vasdev.

On Ode To Your Lips

The slender eyes can play tricks,
The tiny nose can draw you in,
But the lips, Oh these lips, when thrown into the mix,
will make you commit the original sin.

On that beautiful face, shrouded amidst the hair,
they stand out like a cherry on a souffle,
Oh so juicy, oh so sweet,
Right there for the taking, ripe to eat!

If The Rolling Stones had seen this, their emblem would have been slightly different,
the tongue would go in and just the pout would remain,
For your glorious two would create such a predicament,
that despite a tongue and cheek effort all would go insane.

I wish I could kiss your lips,
the ones between you hips, I mean.
Those are the ones that no-one has seen.
And that just makes me more keen :*

No but seriously, Your lips are so delicious,
If I could I'd take them out on a date,
Just the lips, buy nachos and extra dip,
So I can watch it drip, from the stiff upper lip.

Then I notice! You don't like to share,
Trust me, I'll take care of them, I swear!
But Alas! You prefer to hold back & put me at unease,
Haa! Who knew you'd like to tease.

I've been drawn into the game but you've underestimated the player,
I may seem gullible but lying within is a dragon-slayer,
brave and strong I'll wait till the teaser tires,
then snap! I''ll grab you and kiss you igniting the passionate fires.

We both like a challenge but hey, its not a competition,
its not like 'beating the opponent' is the mission,
I'm just glad we got to kiss,
because it truly felt like bliss.

On Turning 25...

To my friends,
Atharv,
Prachetas,
Ujjwal
& Azmaan

(Kamy, Addi, Mrinal & others I'm currently failing to mention - You guys are very special to me too and don't think I don't count you guys :P This one is just more relevant to these top 4 than you)

On 15th June, 2016 I will complete 25 years of being.
Some may say its a great day to celebrate. A momentous occasion which must be earmarked by a grand party inviting hoards of people, getting drunk, making memories and dancing till the sun comes up.
As appealing as that may sound, I will have no part in it.
My entire life barring a few tough months of depression in college and definitely the board exam years - has literally been one big party for me guys.

I write now for all to read.
In my 25 years of existence,
I have traveled to over 15 different nationalities as well as traveled well within my own country.
Ironically I've never been to Bangalore :P - but that too will change later this month.
I have had the pleasure of eating the finest meals ranging from Pizza at Michelangelo's in Singapore, Sushi in Japan, Fish n Chips in Oxford to Cheesecake in New York.
I have watched Disneyland being constructed in Hong-Kong and gone on rides in the original one in Florida,
From Cruises that took us to pristine beaches to watching fascinating thunderstorms from a business class seat on a flight,
From watching 'Phantom of the Opera' at Her Majesty's Theatre to watching the latest X-men movie in 3-D,
From being present at the President's Bodyguard Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan to attending an active session of Congress at the Senate,
From watching the heartbreaking loss of Ganguly's team in 2003 to being present in the stadium when Dhoni hit the exhilarating winning six in 2011,
The god lord has been kind in ways no 25-year old can imagine.

He has provided well for my family. He has given my father and mother strength and sensibility.

Despite being well provided for, I am grateful that my ego is well within limit and to a large extent I remain grounded, jovial and amicable.

Good values go far in life.

Money comes and goes.

I have tasted fame, publishing a book at 17 being claimed a prodigy as well as the 'Next Big Thing'.
I have had the pleasure of falling in love and being loved in return.
I have tasted the warmth of a woman's company in my bed on many an occasion.
I have stayed in 5-star hotels with views overlooking oceans and yet the cool breeze that blew on my face there wasn't nearly as soothing as it was when I slept on the open terrace on a chaddar in the small village of Hamira under hundreds of stars on my own soil.
I have seen landscapes of mountains that looked like they were waiting to inspire an artist for his next painting,
and I have also seen the sunset of the horizon on the beach as if clearly marking the world from the Skies.

I have been blessed with reasonably good looks,
wealth, fame, popularity and love! All of these have at some point or another been in my life!
The band I listened to devoutly (Linkin Park) - hearing every lyric as if it was a sermon - I have had the pleasure of shaking hands with them in person.
What more can I ask for that I haven't got already?
So rich and fulfilling has been my life! I feel like I've lived more in these 25 years than most people live in lifetimes!  


Yes there have been shortcomings too,
I have lost in love,
I have faced embarrassment in trying to reach out to people,
People have taken advantage of my coyness and used me.
People have made me doubt myself and taken me for a ride.
I have been angry and stubborn leading to much pain and discomfort for not only myself but the good people who tried to help me.
I have hit such severe lows that I wanted to end it all. 

But I am grateful that the universe gave me the courage to push through and learn from my mistakes rather than live in regret and repeat them.

Forgiveness is a lesson we all should learn as soon as we can. Especially when you need to forgive yourself, forget and move on.

Somewhere the hand of fate played its trickery upon me. Teaching me certain bitter truths through bitter experiences but in retrospect I realise that the price I had to pay was far smaller than the value of the lessons I learnt in return.

After many a wrong turn, I found faith and patience. I found spirituality and happiness within.
There are five senses in the body - eyes, ears, nose, touch & taste; yet the one sense which is the most important - as some have called as 'The Sixth Sense' is the one we explore the least. For it is this that accounts for intuition, for peace from within, for spontaneity, for creativity.
All senses are controlled by the mind. The brain records and registers and through it we feel, we taste, etc. But when we direct our energy inward, when we become self-aware - we don't feel the need for anything. We are one. We are complete.
When we live completely in the present moment, we empower ourselves to be our best!

I am grateful to the universe and my grandmother for granting me this knowledge to practice and enjoy.

Always remember, the person who will give you the maximum sorrow and the maximum happiness in your life is you yourself. That guy in the mirror? Don't take him lightly. But not too seriously either.

It is said in our Shastras that upon reaching the age of 25 - one fulfills one part of his/her life i.e. the aspect of being a student. Now one's purpose becomes to live the life of a family man. In order to do this to the best of one's ability, one must be conscious of his time, manage a routine, care for his health and the happiness of others around him. Unless we start practicing this now how else will we form these good habits and be ready to teach them forward to society as well as our own children upon their arrival in our lives?

We are young and our future belongs to us.

Our challenge now becomes balancing the responsibility being bestowed upon us as well as enjoying the game of life as we do!

I don't need yet another party inviting hoardes of people to honour me. For me, turning 25 is a change in mindset - nothing more, nothing less.
It may empower me legally as a citizen of this country but for me its just 'A Wednesday'. (Coincidentally also one of my fav movies.)
Its the age I can finally sign my name as a 'Member' in the Vasant Vihar Club and no longer be a 'Dependent'.
Its the age I can legally drink anywhere in the world!
Its the age I feel I need to be brave and take many an independent decision rather than relying on mom n dad.

My happiness no longer lies in satisfying my own egoistic desires alone. It lies in building a future that's bright for others.
How can I help others achieve their dreams?
How many people can I bring happiness to and in what way?
Wouldn't it be great if I could build a company that would employ a large no of people? So many people would get jobs and earn a livelihood, a roof over their heads, money to spend and live life!
What good can I do to build my nation and put it on par with global leaders?
Our motto in school was 'We Care'.
Somewhere along the years amongst the pressure of getting a good job and the crazy things that happen in this great but distressed nation this motto seems to be fading.
There was a doha by Kabir I remember that went something to the effect that 'Happiness grows by sharing it whereas sadness burdens one less by venting it.' So integral is human company for one another yet we often delude ourselves into only thinking about oneself. 
Well, the future belongs to those who take it.
Let's grab the bull by the horns guys!

Then one day when we are satisfied that we gave it our best, we can drive our Ford Mustangs down the well-constructed asphalt in our own cities and toast to Coronas together ;)

Turning 25 is just the beginning!

Plus, its not like I'm doing NOTHING for my b'day. I'm going to Manali for a 5 day long Trek! A much needed break and hopefully a trip that will rejuvenate me to handle the amount of tension and pressure I'm gonna face in the upcoming heavy months of business!

I am touched however at all of ya'll efforts to want to celebrate this event with me. Your enthusiasm has been heart warming. It is the reason I am writing today so as to prevent hurting your feelings and sharing with you man-to-man.

I love ya'll and I hope we stay such good friends forever. In this life and the next.

Goodnight guys,
Sweet dreams.

As A New Journey Begins!

Its been sometime since I last wrote here,
Welcome back! To you my dear reader and to me for penning down thoughts here.

I have been working for the last three months in a firm called DesignForUse on a project as a content specialist. The nature of the work has been satisfying, the environment has been creative and stimulating - in short; I have been loving it. Made a few new friends, met some new interesting people. Its been a good ride.

On the 7th I will complete three months here and that is also the day that my month long vacation will begin. Yes, I have taken temporary leave from work for a month to attend to my body, mind and spirit. To start with, my physical health hasn't been the best. Much pain has arisen in my back, lots of weight loss due to bad sleeping and eating habits has resulted in weakness and soreness. Hopefully, in the span of some serious effort and dedication over this break I will regain some strength.

On the mental fronts, I feel depleted of vitality as friends have become fewer and those good ones whom I consider close barely meet due to being busy with their lives. Routines of work and Delhi traffic don't help our cause. So in part loneliness, but more so a lack of company to share with. Any job at the end of the day, no matter how much you like it, does wear you down.

On the spiritual front, I have been running away from taking inner responsibility and facing myself. Foolishly searching for the bubble reputation in parties, drinking myself away. Yes I have found some pleasure occasionally but evidently that has been momentary, nothing more. (Did sleep with 2 different women in a span of the same week though .. That was cool :P) This month I have restarted meditating and have been reading this book called 'The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari' which is providing good insight and reflection. Let's see where the journey takes me.

On the writing front! I have been reading more than writing honestly, more so because I am searching for inspiration on a subject to write about. Now the time has come to put aside the waiting process and just throw myself into the deep end to stumble upon something rather than wait for it to come to me. This won't be the best strategy of course, but since you have to make a start somewhere - so be it.

I am looking forward to new challenges, new experiences almost as if I am young and fearless all over again! The renewed vigour to live, strive & conquer are returning faster than expected.

I heard this song of Nickleback the other day in which there was this line - 'The Right Thing To Guide Us is Right Here Inside Us.' It made me realise that all the power I'll ever need to make it happen - I already possess. Just a matter of taking that leap :)

So, why wait?

Sometimes the only stopping you from being you - is You.

**Jumps off**

The Present Situation

So,

Here's whats been up with me;

I was working at Bloomberg TV India as a Journalist but have now resigned from my job.

My delightful girlfriend has left India to pursue further studies for a 2 yr Masters Diploma in Canada which makes it safe to say I won't be seeing her anytime soon.

I feel the need to silently rebel against my household and family as they suffocate and deny creativity Q.E.D. I sleep in the guestroom and not my own bed anymore.

I try and stay out as much as possible. Staying at home is an insult to my intelligence.

I want to write stories to entertain minds, make them reflect, possibly ignite new ideas in them. This is my purpose. I need nothing I don't already have to achieve it. For that, I consider myself blessed.

My means are this very laptop for which all I require is a mere charging station and a comfortable chair and table to engage in the activity. There is always this body that one has to manage. Hence food, rest and proper exercise are mandatory - no matter what age or how experienced one is. This is often an annoying task yet a healthy distraction.

But now I aspire for more. For I have tasted the feeling of earning a monetary sum with my own hard effort. I look upon those who are financially independent with awe and admiration. Even though I was never taught to chase money because I always seemed to have plenty; it seems sad but true that in today's times - even if you are chasing greatness and following your dreams, the question 'How much do you get a month?' has more weight than 'What did you achieve with your time?'. Our existence is a subtle compromise between the things that really matter and the things that only seem too.

I started by writing this to inform my friends and those who wonder about me what is happening in my life. But in the process have also stumbled upon certain reflections which could be relevant for anyone reading this.

In the end all I'd like to say is,
if you've had the patience to read this far,
Thank you for having so much interest in me - call me - for it is now more than ever than I need good company to keep me occupied;
And if your stuck in a job that you must do because you must do it - I'm not saying quit it and follow your passion. I'm sure you have your reasons for perpetuating, all I hope for is that you remember the activities that take your breath away like the art of writing does for me and indulge in it even if just for a short while today.

Live it up,

Wish you luck,
Goodnight.

What The Heart Truly Desires

A little rush of passion,
A few sparks of romance,
Intelligence mixed with a little fashion,
A few drinks, music and the element of chance.

The magic in the eyes,
like a beautiful sunrise,
the two bodies collide like fire and ice,
a little love, a little lust, but overall oh so nice!

A concoction designed to appeal,
to the senses and the soul,
like a new hit song full of 'feel',
that makes you wanna Rock n roll!

What the heart truly desires is to love and be loved in return,
but its rare to find that in life so patience one must learn.

But always be on the lookout coz it can come along when you least expect it!
In a dark room or even one that's well lit!

Written at 23rd August, 2014
At Whetherspoons in Kingston while chilling with my friends and classmates - Dani, Max, Roger, Joe, Stacy and Marie. 

Lets Fall Together

My wish is for you to come to me and take me by suprise,
I want to wake up with you in my arms to every sunrise,
let's walk together through the grasses green,
and discover new lands together never before seen.

Hold my hand and take the leap,
let me hold you when you weep,
let me kiss you, your shiny skin so sweet,
lets dance to the song of love - such a beautiful beat.

Lets drink coffee together and complain about how capitalism is taking over the world,
lets discuss Plato and Socrates while letting our love unfurl,
lets watch a romantic movie together and have a subtle contest to see who cries first,
and when we can't hold it in any longer - let our tears burst!

Let's go shopping and discuss brands like we know the difference,
'Nah Nah Uniqlo's waaay better than M & S', 'No, that's just your preference'.
Let's cook together - I'll show u what I know and then you can show me what your good at,
I can pamper you with delicacies and you can help make me fat!

Lets be lazy together and be ok with that.
'What do you feel like doing today' .. 'Bleh' .. 'We chill in the flat?'
'Yeah' .. 'come here' .. 'I wanna snuggle' .. 'Its a hot day babe' ... 'You don't love me'
C'mon .. no need for a lover's spat.

Lets go for long cycle rides in Richmond park,
we'll see deers in the wild!
enjoy the trees, have a can of juice, maybe even spot a lark!
together in nature be beguiled.

Movie Review: Bobby Jasoos

To begin with, I quite liked the movie :)

In the past I have been often very judgmental and arrogant of my opinion of Hindi-Bollywood movies as they have given me plenty of reasons to be and as Hollywood has set high standards in my mind. If you've seen movies like Godfather, Star Wars and Remember the Titans; watching movies like Murder or Aashiqui 2 makes you want to die. So, let's face it - Its not completely my fault.

Moving on,

This movie in my reserved opinion is rather heart-warming (Yes I shed a few tears while watching it, and No you did not read that last sentence). The movie's plot is based on the protagonist Bobby who dreams of being a private detective and has little professional experience or formal education for the same. Her skills though are commendable. An intuitive mind with fairly thorough database of what goes on in her part of town; her skills are not to be taken lightly. She's witty, persistent and observant. Yes her unorthodox methods don't always come across as the best but they end up paying results which is what matters.

The movie is solely carried by the acting of Vidya Balan. It gets a bit slow in parts but thankfully unlike a lot of hindi movies this one isn't long. Its been well edited to fit into the 2 hour window of entertainment and that earns it marks in my books. The plot gets interesting after the initial bit as there is suspense created revolving around the nature of the mysterious character who hands out money as if its running out of style to Bobby for her services. Many questions are raised and in time answered. Who is this man? Why is he tracking down these people? What becomes of them once he finds them? Etc etc.
The family drama in the movie fits that of a typical Indian middle-class Muslim household where women must obey and honor the traditions set before them by the patriarchal head and 'society'. Personally I din't really like this bit. I feel sad seeing the mindsets of the majority of our population still stuck in their perception of their life as black and white with women either having a place in the household or not. In this sense, Bobby defies many of the stereotypical notions of being feminine and that's what makes her such a strong character. She's an ambitious go-getter who refuses to back down.
Upon the interval where she decides to go against the current and stand up to the 'boss-man' rather than simply be a pawn in the game is when it gets interesting.

No Bollywood movie is complete without a love story these days and this film is no exception. Although, at least there is an attempt made to not make the entire movie revolve around the love story so that earns it marks too. Although the cheesy love song calls for alarm and hence all those marks you just earned have now been subtracted.

Here's where it loses marks for me - the script is rather simple. So if your attentive, you really can make out where its all going. Although as a writer I know how difficult it can be to tell a good story, thats why I never undermine even an otherwise ordinary averagely good story. But when it comes to movies, a director has a lot more tools to express creativity than a writer. Apart from the back-story of mr. mysterious and his reasoning of why he's doing what he's doing - there really isn't anything much you can't anticipate if you haven't been concentrating.

For me the real flavour to the movie was the ending. Not just the mystery unsolved but the way Booby stands up to her father. The dialogue 'Mai aapki sharam nahi, aapki shaan bana chahti huu' really struck a cord with me. The last 15 mins of the movie where everything culminates is definitely the best in this critics opinion and the wait to reach there is quite alright.
The humour in the movie also keeps you occupied and I must say there is quite a bit of it in the film.

So all in all, it ain't a genius movie. It is good entertainment. Vidya Balan - well done. Script - good show. Happy to see Bollywood progressing the way it is. (I am reeeealy hoping this is not a re-make of some English movie coz then I'd really lose a lot of faith).

I would rate the movie a reasonable 6 of 10. Would I watch it again? Maybe. But yes, if your looking for an entertaining yet heartwarming hindi movie with a bit of suspense and drama - this is definitely a good bet.

Enjoy!

Over a cup of coffee

Inspired by True events

It was 8 AM, he hadn't slept all night. The assignment was due at 11, not much was left but he had to get it done. 'You never value words as much as you do when you're typing an assignment' he thought to himself. The word-count hangs over you like an executioner and you the prisoner. Despite 3 Red-bulls, 2 caramel macchiatos, 3 millionaire shortbreads, 2 packets of crisps and 2 sandwiches; energy drained from his body like a cheetah cooling off after a failed chase of his prey. 'Oh, how much more!' He thought to himself. 300 words. 'Hey! That's not much!' a smile upon his face. Wait, Oops - That's the amount he had written. 2700 more to go. What had he done all this while? Well, yesterday evening he couldn't get any work done coz his friends came over and they all got high. The day before that he burnt his fingers on the hob so typing was an issue and he couldn't get any writing done. The day before that he was out with family and he had to do his chores when he got back home, after which he was completely exhausted so he just had to sleep. Despite his repeated efforts, nothing seemed to pull through. He had spent all last night researching the topic so as to produce a good-quality essay. Now it was 8 in the morning and the essay had barely been done.
'I've GOT to do this.' He motivated himself. Like a professional typist he started off. Click, click, click, click, click, he was typing at the speed of light. Words were on the screen just as fast as he thought them. The argument made sense, the structure was strong, the concept - original, it was happening! Beautiful! After continuing with full focus for what seemed like half an hour, he paused to check the word-count. 923. Not bad. He thought to himself. Then he checked his clock - it had been exactly 12 mins since he had started again. A rush of confidence boosted him. '623 words in 12 mins! I'm on a roll!' he reassured himself. Again he started off, this time though a little more calculative than before. A certain rhythm had taken form.

That's when it happened.

Her day had just started. She got all ready to go to uni when she got the message - class is cancelled. Disappointed she decided to take a different route to uni that day now that she had an extra hour to make it to the next lecture. Into Starbucks she went to get a hot Cappuccino and look who she sees to her surprise! There he sat, his face so familiar. She had seen him at uni before. He looked so cute with that haircut and his black Uniqlo jacket. 'Oh!' she felt a chill up her spine. 'You're order ma'am?' the lady at the counter asked interrupting her thoughts. 'Oh! A cap .. cappuccino please!' she replied fumbling. She realized she should not stare, and became extremely self-conscious. She went and sat at a table diagonally opposite him. His table was a mess. My god! How long had he been there? It seemed like he had spent the night there. There were wrappers, used tissues and basically filth all around him. Was he doing an assignment last minute? Hmmm, he had never seemed like the irresponsible types before. Who knew that behind such a pretty face lay such recklessness. But oh what a pretty face he had - 'Oh!' she found herself thinking about them together again.

**Sigh**

'I wonder if he ever notices me.' She thought to herself. The coffee was served. She sipped slowly; blowing at it slightly as it was piping hot.


'I'm getting my momentum, this baby's all mine!' He thought to himself. He had gotten 1203 words. All that reading was paying off. A combination of the reading and his ability to critically analyse and draw arguments was what was being spilled out onto the screen. Suddenly something caught his attention. There she sat, cross-legged, sipping her piping hot coffee. Wow! She took his breath away. Her features striking, that denim jacket looking smashing on her. His thoughts were disrupted. He couldn't concentrate on the essay anymore. 'Serve me right for studying at Starbucks. Why didn’t I just go to the library like everyone else.' he thought for a moment. 'No I have to study. I have to! Its due at 11! F***!!!' He attempted a rescue mission to get his concentration back. It worked initially, but was short-lived. 1500 words. That's all he could do. Well, it's better than nothing. Considering two hours ago I barely had any. 'I'm so tired' he thought to himself. He looked up from his screen. She wasn't there. Disappointed he turned back to his laptop. 'Oh well' he thought 'Perhaps next time'.


'He's typing so fast! My god! Its almost as if he wants to injure his keyboard!' She thought to herself. 'Stupid reckless boy, why didn’t he do it earlier? I don't even think I've ever seen him at the library. Huh, I guess he'd rather study here anyway. Who studies at Starbucks?!' Just the thought seemed insane to her. 'Its a place to get coffee and have a chat not you're office studio! Hmpf!' she further complained. 'He's got way too much swagger to like any decent girl. Especially someone like me! Unless I wear a micro-mini top and some revealing shorts, he won't even blink when his eyes fall on me.' She noticed her reflection in the mirror. 'Oh! My make-ups off, I'd better go correct it. He's busy lost in his laptop, what does he care. No, but it looks bad, I'll go correct it.' She got up and walked towards the toilet without him ever noticing.


'Ah! Nothing like a hot butter croissant and an episode of 'Friends', man can these guys make me laugh! Haha' He thought to himself. He had let the episode buffer online while he ordered the croissant. That was the other reason he liked studying at Starbucks - Free unlimited fast Wifi. Faster than at Uni and no blocking of Torrentz or anything - download what you like - He liked that. When he returned to his table, he didn’t notice it but there she was - back on her seat. He saw his episode and laughed at regular intervals enjoying the food never noticing that she was looking at him all the while - wondering, thinking, feeling. He was too busy lost with Chandler's sarcasm and Joey's foolishness. When he finished the episode, he decided to get back to work as he felt better. Upon returning the plate he noticed her again. 'There she is again. I thought she left?'. Their eyes met and she instantly turned away.

'That was weird' - Both thought the same but felt differently.

'She turned away so quickly, what is she ignoring me or smtng?' - boy
'He's looking at me! Shit! He din't look at me all throughout his laughing spree, why is he looking at me now?' - girl
She turned slowly and looked his way. He was still looking at her. She held his gaze for about 2 seconds before again looking away.

'This girl is weird.' he thought.
'Oh my god, he's still staring.' She said to herself.
'She looks familiar, have I seen her somewhere?' he thought.
She took a deep breath. 'Now now, don't attract attention to yourself. Be calm.'
'I swear I've seen her somewhere, but I can't seem to place her. Damn I wish I knew where I had seen her, at least then we'd have something to talk about. But now I can't even approach her especially after how she just flipped her head 180 degrees like a boomerang after seeing me. Good lord! She probably thinks I'm some creep who’s staring at her boobs or something! Fuck dude, I'm getting out of here. I don't wanna cause a scene or something.'
He picked up his jacket and started packing his things.
'He's leaving?! What?! Why? Is it because of the look I just gave him? No!!! Stop! Don't go! But I can't say that?! That'll sound so stupid! I don't wanna make a scene or something. Oh no, what do I do.'

Once packed he literally stormed out of the Starbucks as if they've just declared a bomb-threat there or something.
'HE RAN. WHO THE HELL RUNS OUT OF A STARBUCKS?! Shit, I creeped him out. I'm such a fool.' She placed her face in her hands and felt stupid. She sipped her coffee quietly, distraught with herself. When it was over, she looked at the empty cup in dismay. It was a sad beginning to the day. She left the cup at the counter - the waitress thanked her for doing her work to which she politely smiled. Looking down, she began walking out of the place.

That's when it happened.

There he was, sitting bang opposite Starbucks at Costa. No food, no drink, just him and his laptop - pretending to look busy. He had been waiting all the while for her to come out. He took of his earphones and began walking up to her. She noticed it. At first she paused, but then she kept up her pace. 'Excuse me!' he called out. She took a short deep breath and turned out putting on an heir of bravery 'Yes?' she replied. 'Hi, I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable back there. I wasn't staring at you or anything, and it wasn't my intention to make things awkward.' he spoke gently. 'That's all right.' she said almost dismissively and half turning around.
'Um, one more thing!'
'Yes?' She stopped and looked at him again.
'Have I seen you before?'
'Um, I think maybe you study at Rohampton as well? Perhaps you've seen me there?'
'Oh yeah! I knew you looked familiar. Huh, right right. Well, Hi! I'm *****!

'Hi I'm *****, nice to meet you.'
They shook hands and smiled. 
'Well, I hope you don't take this the wrong way but um, would you like to join me for  cup of coffee?'
She had butterflies in her stomach as he said those very words.
'Sure! But, I just had coffee :/'
'Oh ok, um, another time then...'
'But you can buy me a scoop of Gelato' she said jovially.
The boy smiled.

They were just getting to know each other.
 

The Boxer

A gust of wind,
A ray of sunlight,
The dreamy eyes wake,
Time for the next round of the fight.

He looks into the mirror, A moment of self-refelction,
Reminding him to be strong and patient,
'Your time will come, just keep working and hold on',
A poster of Ali on the wall - his inspiration.

Music in his ears, fire in his belly, he runs,
runs so far he loses track, he was never built for the track anyway,
push up, pull up, push up, pull up - Focus kid! This aint a game of fun!
One wrong move and you'll come crashing down like a leap of hay.

Knees bruised, elbows scratched, eye blue and I don't mean the pupil,
"Keep your shoulders up! Wrists cocked up!" No mercy! Be brutal,
Aaaaaah! He lunges, Ufff, he plunges,
the fight takes it toll, hit, beat up, he sits - catches his breath.

Training for the big fight was never easy,
The rides always tough, only rarely is it breezy,
Eat protein and plenty of carbs! Get your rest son,
Yes Coach! Just three more lifts before the day's quota is done.

The time came when his talent was put to the test,
He was facing all - the worst and the best,
Ringside, every step along the way coach saw the glory begin,
K.O. ! Victory Rizler! He's too fast! So strong and lean!

It din't matter how tall or strong you were, this 'kid' was the formidable force you couldn't stand up to,
Rizler! Rizler! Rizler! The nobody whose name was now on everyone's lips,
A bleeding mouth, one hurt eye, yet he stood, unafraid, undefeated, no boo-hoo,
landed a punch and fractured his opponents hip!

'How do you do it?' They asked him, 'What's your secret?'
'Just dedication and hard work' he replied humbly,
This was true but it wasn't the whole truth,
there was another reason that made Rizler do what he did - It was Bumblebee.

Bumblebee. Oh Bumblebee. So innocent. So sweet,
but the fates had not been kind and Bumblebee was no more.
Rizler was so angry, sadness took over him. He felt defeat,
The incident broke him. Left him like a gaping wound - in need of healing whist still sore.

He had no one but himself to help him get back on his feet,
the journey changed him, he was never the same again.
the boy had become a man, ready to struggle, full of energy, upbeat!
a mixture of pain and hope keeping him sane.

Boxing found him, Coach put a glove in his hand before lending him one,
Coach taught him to dream again, 'You're gonna be BIG son!',
Coach painted the picture, Rizler made it a reality,
 Together they overcame all the hurdles and became an unstoppable team.

Now they travel, rocking the ring, making the arena come alive,
With every punch landing his name into the archives,
Look at him go! In, out, in, out! Slippery like a fish, swift like a puma!
Strong, oh so strong, making the crowds sing in unison 'hallelujah, hallelujah!'

Behold The Legend of Rizler!
It's his time now, Look at him shine!

Reflection of a moment

(Started on 5th April, 2014 at 5:45 am)

It's not just happiness I feel, its a mixture of profound peace and serenity,
It's not just love she gave me, its meaning and reason to be,
It wasn't just black or white, it was more than that,
I realized it when alone in the club I sat.

Looking around I struggled to find a clear path,
Its not easy to identify whats the way to go sometimes,
I struggle everyday, it's a constant tassel like the mind of a sociopath,
a flicker of familiarity echoes comfort like Corona with lime.

What was beautiful, I could not see, I only realized in feeling,
with time, it revealed itself and indeed how brightly it shone,
one step at a time, non-judgmental, non-attached, simple flowing,
naturally, gradually, carrying innocence and playfulness, as if just born.

It has the power to rejuvenate, but it takes wisdom to fully accept its ways,
But those who are intelligent in time understand that that's the way to go,
because you realize who you are, not who society wants to make you,
you find strength and awareness within, which guides you so.

Just inner strength and focus isn't enough mind you,
The outer journey is just as real as the one within,
your thoughts, feelings and actions carry energy which constantly sail through,
creating a balance between 'in' and 'out' is crucial to surviving.

Too much reflection makes you a thinker,
Too little makes you a fool,
Just right makes you wise,
Not reflecting at all is just 'ek bahut baddi bhool'.
(A phrase in Hindi which translates into 'A very big mistake')

What takes courage is knowing what is right and following it even if your unsure how things are gonna play out,
There's faith in such a decision, and the power of faith is so tremendous it is unfathomable,
contesting, persisting even when your mind tempts you - like the illusion of an oasis in a drought.
Push through, focus, don't listen to the doubtful voice in your head, it's laughable. 

But at some level I truly believe we are all slaves in the hands of time,
today is our time to shine so we sparkle, tommorow its not so we struggle to rhyme,
everything - all our emotions, expressions, experiences, memories - everything is set to happen the way it does,
one moment your everybody's favorite Woody! The next minute its Buzz!

And that's what actually makes me believe in Buddha's words of it ALL being an illusion,
the real truth, the real crux of the matter is us! Us as we are! The magic we hold in being!
Everything we've ever wanted or defined ourselves by is present within,
yet we search high and low outside for all the magnificence expanding our eyes to see.  

Time only makes us realize this truth.
Causality is the principle, realization is the fruit,
cause and effect - as you reap, you shall sow;
But the heart constantly desires, and the brain even more so!

Its difficult to not be tempted and live wisely,
Its not deep meditation but more of an inner awareness,
your body talks to you as just as much your mind,
Its language is rarely heard even though its one of a kind.

Mind-body, interior-exterior, the world and its influence on us,
we are all part of the grand universe but one rarely feels connected to it,
the mind's always preoccupied; while at work, talking over dinner or even going home on the bus!
like separate pieces of a puzzle bent out of shape in order to prevent the right fit.

It is not peace we will find, it is not power or wisdom, it is just time,
we will find and we will let go, and then on the path of life we will repeat,
the best we can do is accept it, the irreversible loop we are all drawn too,
no better, no worse in the long run just memories perhaps to woo.

I read this poem once called 'Some people laugh and some people cry',
It brought a smile and a tear to my eye,
its about how people react to the same situations,
while one man finds it humourous, another one sighs ...

So its about perspective then, ah we have another discovery,
time, causality and now attitude! Ah sounds savoury,
Were all philosophers and rockstars misunderstood and born in the wrong decade,
lost in love, hungry for fame, pressure lingering like the general's mind in a war-zone blockade.

Or maybe not depends on how we see it no?
Today is a bright shinny day and brighter even will be tomorrow!
but perspective also factors in being true to yourself and that means living in the moment,
so back to inner-awareness; see? I just fell into the loop again.

I'm just as human as you; and your just as human as the guy sitting next to you!
So is Goku (well technically he was a sayan) and Majin buu!
(Sorry just wanted a creative way to rhyme .. kinda lame but it'll make those of you who watch DBZ smile :D )

And now I take your leave to go be true to what I believe in,
while this poem lets you introspect upon what has been said,
before the end one offers gratitude; hope reading this was time well-spent,
or maybe time made you arrive here upon this reflection of a moment. 

(Ended on 13th April at 2:30 am)

To New Beginnings

To getting a New Debit card,
to the start of better friendships,
to more confidence and less overconfidence,
to more conversations over coffee and less kissing on the lips.

To more patience and more maturity,
to more focus and less frivolity,
to being self-aware, to being more understanding,
to maintaining relations and acknowledging subjectivity.

To new sunrises and less midnights,
to travel responsibly and less lazyness,
to learning how to cook and eating healthy,
to more deep breaths and less crazyness.

To more Adorno and less 'Friends',
to being more supportive and less offend,
to catching the bus on time and not walking home!
to being more social and less alone.

To being less social when required too!
To Widening My Gaze and doing what I need to do.
to having more self-respect and never selling myself short,
to seeing myself soon (hopefully) on the Squash Court.

To less romance and more 'be my friend',
to appreciating what I have and making amends,
to a fundamental change of attitude that starts by saying 'NO',
You can't always be the nice guy, think twice before you say 'Yo!'.

To living in the moment and creating a new identity,
To breaking away from convention and enjoying the unpleasant serenity,
to shattering the mind which restricts and believing in the mind which acknowledges flight!
to sitting back and accepting the change - 'Ah what a sight' 

and finally,
To wishing you all a very goodnight! 

Book Review: 'The Dalai Lama's Cat' by David Michie

There are very few books one reads with absolutely not a single negative remark to say. This book is a delightful read and I am honoured to present a book review of it on my blog. It is for books like these that the purpose of a book reviewer truly exists - to tell you that this is a good book and you should read it. But lets not only make this me talking and you believing. I'd like to think that the audience of my blog is a smart independent one that thinks for itself and ascertains itself as it what is worthwhile and what is it not. So here why in my opinion I rate this book a flashing 5/5 stars -

The book's story although fictional is one hundred percent plausible and infact in many situations deals with problems that all normal human beings deal with - ego, anger, gluttony, low confidence, etc. Yes the book places Buddhism and Spirituality at a higher pedestal and makes it the first and foremost solution to all these problems - so if your not into spirituality this book is certainly NOT for you.
The book is quite literally exactly what the title suggests. The story of the Dalai Lama's cat. The most unique and never-before-seen feature that I as a reader witnessed was that the story is presented FROM THE CAT'S POINT OF VEIW. Yes! The entire Narrative is that of the cat's! There are passages in between where humans (often famous humans) take over but it is mostly the words and thoughts of the cat. Now I have always been a dog person and have a more or less stern dislike for cats since the 5th grade, but this book never made me feel repulsive to this feline even when it spat out furballs. That's the other catch. I'm the kind of reader who appreciates good writing. I do appreciate a good story but the way its presented scores points with me too. This book is deliciously written. I say 'deliciously' not because of the hundreds of food descriptions that are indeed gastronomically delightful as our little Snow Lion or HHC (His Holiness' cat) as she is addressed as is a big fat glutton! But because the author has indeed taken time to edit his manuscript with the choicest words to express articulately what he wishes to convey. This rare talent in today's fast pace world makes you admire and literally get lost along the pages as you grow reading this wonderful book. From accurate descriptions of the behaviour of how his holiness behaves with his guests to breath taking descriptions of Mcleodganj from a feline's eye situated at the highest point of Namgyal Monastery, this book is a light, humourous, spiritually enlightening read that makes you introspect and feel alive. I would suggest all who are interested to pick it up and not look back. Oh and keep your pencil ready because in all likelihood you'll definitely be doing some underlining :)

Although I do caution you it starts rather slowly and takes the first few chapters to get gripping, but once your hooked - There's no turning back! Just sit back and enjoy the show :D

A Stern Confession

Written for PACH 13 by Anirudh Vasdev
28/12/2013

It's true, I'm damaged.
I was pure once. I knew love all too well but not any longer,
Now I have issues; I have baggage,
but the pain has made me grow and made me stronger.

Too much has changed and I understand what it means to grow up,
It's a lot more 'Good Mornings' and a lot less 'Wassup',
It's a lot more difficult and a lot less easy,
you feel the ride with its highs and lows - its a lot less breezy.

Innocence is replaced because of experience,
envisioning a dream and realizing it are two very different things,
you change, you understand and often become more obedient,
you have to adapt - you realize 'Thats Life!' and resistance stings.

Life was never complicated, on the contrary its brutally simple,
choices have to be made as both 'black' and 'white' intermingle,
these choices come at a cost and that cost is what affects us,
It questions, it confuses, it irritates, suddenly the game's calculative - minus or plus?

But the golden rule of life is that there's no going back,
and if you desire to return; its strength you lack,
Nostalgia and retrospect have a very limited shelf-life,
'Let it go' is what your told but once scared you always fear the knife.

In such times there is one great quality we posses that never fails to delight,
the ability to suprise yourself,
Transgression, taking an unexpected turn can lead to witnessing a lovely sight!
like finding an old photograph while dusting the top shelf.

Life is long; longer than you and I know,
So listen to Lenka's words when she says 'Just enjoy the show',
Being compassionate and true give peace and courage to push further,
Its not always a fairytale but neither is it 'The Sorrows of Young Werther!'

In friendship we find tremendous good feel,
In family we find support and nurturing,
we share laughs with the ones we love over a hearty meal,
with religion; in god, we feel our soul merging.

There are moments that make you feel divine,
there are moments that simply take your breath away,
there are moments you find yourself in good company sipping sparkling wine!
and your body gradually begins to sway . . .

When I was little, we'd first be inspired then work, but now the deadline is the greatest inspiration,
rather than success - the fear of failure is the force of motivation,
although then I was a child now I am worldly wise,
and honestly I'm a better man for the job in my own eyes :)


__________________________________________________________

Heightened Exuberance

Blessed with youth, energy and vibrance,
free to run, unrestrained and without guidance,
a soul with strength and passion; an empty mind with low will power,
laziness mixed with honour growing more numb with each passing hour.

a deep question, a lost cause of reality,
an illusion of greatness, an imagined sense of purpose followed by a miscalculated state of affairs,
loneliness, obsession, escapism, overwhelmed abnormality,
life is made to slow down like looking into a mirror and being forced to stare.

in betweenness follows complications,
negativity is short lived,
understanding is weak based on a flutter of emotions,
only positivity makes me 'Dare to be Free'

The mundane routineness follows an active alert curiosity,
a decadence of images with subtle animosity,
self reasoning accompanied with self doubt,
a thrill to hit without hurting upon seeing her pout.

Raw, so crazy raw from within despite the consistency for correct cooking,
like a simultaneous organised brainwashing when your not looking,
It is isolation and I do blame you !
I blame all who fed me the illusion even though they knew it wasn't true!

Beauty is presupposed by need,
not greed,
patience is a virtue,
not speed.

The pain mixes with the tranquility to form an unusual chasm,
the images float starting the process again,
exhaustion and hunger, peace and power, overrated expense causing a spasm,
'Grow up boy! This is the world of men!'

Orders sparkle with intent and rebellion,
a sense to defy is omnipresent,
gripped with fear; 'Forward March Batallion!'
all face the consequences whether Patriarch or peasant.

Time will pass by, this will all fade,
no matter how hard you worked, no matter what you made,
but the results are your own truth, the truth YOU cannot run away from,
You still live here, in this quiet compact dorm.

Putting pen to Paper - letting thoughts flow :)

"Its all so new and unheard of! Its like being born again at 22!"

At first when I came here I thought, "So its London .. Been there so many times before. Shouldn't be sooo much of a change right?" .. Well I was in for a treat alright. It all started with having my first glass of water. Now I've been here before, I've been to Singapore where the similar practice is undertaken but I'm still from a country where we dont directly consume tap water! I mean who does that?! Apparently EVERYONE here.

Then came the rules of the road. So your walking down the road say .. and you realize you need to cross the street and so it begins - the planning in your head of how to cross, look for an opening between the zooping cars without killing yourself right? Yeah; No. Not here at least. Maybe in Central London you'll find some of those rude drivers but definitely not here. You wanna feel like a Queen? Take a walk on any road side and simply stand at a crossing. Any car and believe me when I say ANY car coming at no matter what speed will come to a dead stop as soon as your foot's forefinger's nail touches the road.

This is getting a little boring .. I'm just gonna convert this into a poem ..

They drink tap water and park in squares,
The unpredictable weather always confuses you to wear a light shirt or layers,
The traffic and the people are all too polite,
They'll stop at the red lights even when there's no one in sight!

Laws are followed and balance is maintained,
The best quality of stuff is available here - right from Barley to Sugarcane,
We have sabzi mandi, they have Tescos and Azda,
their poor is our well-fed, their Maruti is our Mazda!

'English' - the word itself has so many different connotations now,
It could mean cold, diplomatic, clever, bland, historical, or make you wanna take a bow,
It is shit expensive though and highly overrated I tell you,
London has a vibe but its dead after 3, you have to walk crazy distances just to use a loo.

A storm will make news headlines if 3 trees fall and a handful die,
roads will be closed, trains will have bus diversions, delays will make you go *sigh*,
They're very efficient sometimes but are usually so lazy,
laid back, by the book attitude, boring and unrefreshed, like the climate - drab and hazy.

The Sun here teases you and teases you alone,
It wont come like a good friend for lunch to stay,
It'll come like a high school Principal for a cordial visit and then run away.
It'll be days before you see its light brightly shone!

Thankfully, they're not many insects here, just a few spiders and small fellas,
they'll show up every now and then just to remind you how you sound when you yella!
But the food though is horribly bland,
its like eating beach sand :S

The good thing is that things usually work,
fast internet, constant power, hot water, the system supports you to push forward,
around public offices you need not lurk,
Oh and for those who are fans, here its called 'Yogurt' not 'Curd'. 

The river is sublime in some areas and the long intertwined roads are a sight to behold,
Breakfast at Riverside Cafe, lunch at 'Foxes n Hounds', The Holiday Inn, The Boatyard Tavern,
The colourful leaves spring forth in autumn from Tress with small green molds,
the birds here are as if indifferent to us! They're just not scared! and it doesn't seem like they'll learn.

I think I'll stop now ... little sleepy .. plus its like 2:30 AM. Unless I'm still operating on Indian Standard Time, I should sleep if I know whats good for me.

Farewell.

Little Dandelion

Inspired by Audioslave's song 'Dandelion' 

There it lay, swaying politely under the sun,

Sinfree with glee, delicate like a flea,

Here I sit, writing this from London,

Happy to be here, but more so just happy to be! 

It's a quiet night with the road ahead lit up,

The silence is comforting, the cold is a fuck up,

Sometimes it's just nice to sit back and sip wine,

Especially when it's not mine ;) 

Yeah, I'll admit I drank your wine and ate your food,

Why do you think I'm in such a joyful mood !

Just like this little Dandelion I sway carefree,

Happy to be here; but more so just happy to be :) 

She sits in the garden lost in thought,

He rolls with his friends planning for cinema,

That one stands all alone, in his own world caught,

Oh did I tell you? My flatmate's name is Emeka. 

The romantic flavor of the air is fully engrossing and beautiful to be in,

The blowing wind freezes you from the outside but blesses you from within,

To ignore this magnificence and be lost in your problems is as much a sin!

As making a worthy horse purposely lose when you know he was born to win. 

Free verse ... Is such a boon, 

Can you imagine if I had to follow rules while writing this?

Rather than express myself freely, I'd be some disciplined goon,

I'd be adhering to grammar instead of being educated by bliss.

Its nice sometimes to just sit and feel,
like an Apple - complete, not like an Orange that needs to be pealed.
the song continues, the music makes you sway,
One can only sit back and wonder 'Ah! What a beautiful day!'

The food grows cold, the leaves grow still,
the berry mix is a beat, just like the movie 'Kill bill',
The blonde guitar, the perfunctory report,
the detailed analysis, the scared fort.

The endless story, the ring composition,
the disappointment in the longing eyes; The intermission.
the rolled up underwear, the sparkling sea,
I'm just happy to be here; just happy to be.

Beatbox thunder, drunk girls, pizza delivery and smoking,
abuses on your face disguised under the label of 'I was only joking!',
the never ending stench of responsibility, room freshner please!
Laundary, cooking, bank account, payment of fees!

This is a new way of living, unjust but free,
fuck it up - your fault, make it - your degree!
What you see is what you get; no hanky-panky,

I miss PACH yaar, and especially you Shanky!

We escape everyday to return to our reality,

I was once lost but now I'm profound, 

you have to accept your nature; cultivate humanity,

the automatic lights, the foxes at night, the leaf-blower mornings, 

accompanied by a plethora of unfamiliar sound.

The Water in a Smrinoff bottle, (the tap water mind you), 

the anti-bacterial spray, the 'You're holding the sponge wrong!' while cleaning the loo,

the unfamiliar plug points, the longing for home,

the fireworks on the wrong nights, the chanting of 'Aum'. 

The Dandelion still sways, 

yet the breeze is no more,

what a comfort it finds in just being,

while we all are still sore. 

'Teach me your wisdom!' I cried in admiration, 

'There is no wisdom' came the answer; 'Just unlearn everything you know!' 

So I sat with him a while shaking his hand,

Feeling so ... ? ... Feeling so. 

But I aint no Dandelion, I am human so I returned. 

Sharing my discovery with you, sharing what I learned. 

'Just be!' was his message, 'don't BE this or BE that!' 

such a simple message, such glee, such a pretty thing to look at.

THE BENCH

By Anirudh Vasdev 
(7th October, 2013)

I am seated for you to sit on me,

wood, metal, paint and glue,

we were all united solely for you!

Our union - my purpose - to comfort you I wait, can't you see?

The polite tree waves to me everyday,

but I have my heart on another,

the slim and tall street-lamp is the light of my life,

but I treat him like a little brother.

The cement on which I stand is cold and unfriendly,

the soft grass tugs gently at my feet,

O! A stranger! I am graced with company!

*Cough* *Cough*, he smokes, *cough*, not such a joyous meet.

Whew! He's gone and I'm reunited with my silent scenery,

We are stagnant on the surface but inside lies bursting energy,

riveling with excitement, mood, flavour and sense in perfect symmetry,

yet we seem as expressionless as Keira Knightley.

I am an ant's breakfast, the Magpie's relief,

the homeless' bed, the fox's roof,

the Christian's faith, an occults belief,

and a familiar space for the aloof.

Yet you'll find me here, day in and day out,

without fear, without worry, without doubt,

this is my spot for better or worse,

It is my gift, it is my curse.

I enjoy the bustling busy mornings,

I introspect on the lonely nights,

I offer support to all whether dawn or dusk,

and have been witness to a few drunken fights.

You, young man, who step into my sockets,

Its getting cold, I urge you to head in,

put the pen away and warm your hand in your pocket,

there's a thin layer of ice developing on the dustbin.

Go and rest son, I'll be here tmrw too!

Thank you for your words, I found a friend in you.

Sleep now child, the party has begun elsewhere,

I see 4 coming towards me - dark, tall, young and one fair.

With a cold hand and a warm heart,

I take your leave;

Farewell.  

 The Bench at Seething Wells; The muse of this poem.

Meeting The Vice-President of India

Meeting the Vice-President of India Hon'ble Shri M. Hamid Ansari and Presenting him with the books - 'Of Ghosts, Wizards and Other Fantasies' and 'Essence of Spiritual Wisdom' at his residence on 23rd Spetember, 2014.

My Journey with PACH!

To PACH,
I love you so much!
Saach Saach!
I’ll miss you PACH 


Who knew our lives would change this way,
When we walked into CCD that day?
I was reserved and partially nervous,
I only knew this one girl, who is presently preparing for her civil service,
Then I met this Looney-Toon family – one founder at a time,
And a collared shirt man with a unique recipe of laughter to break the ice,
You opened your heart to complete strangers, it was truly sublime.
These were good people – genuine and nice.

It wasn't long before we let our guards down and got in touch,
‘Arrey yeh to honna hee thaa’ said our founder, ‘After all, this is PACH!’
The poetry connected us to each other and made us introspect too,
Some got inspired, some were admired, some even said ‘I love you’.

We have a Shaire of Shayari who’s now become a rap artist,
We have a diamond in the rough whose dog’s name is poof!
We have a big lovely Panda to add to the list,
And a small cute elephant who sits under the roof!
But no law of the jungle was applied here,
No rivalry for territory or love,
In fact we have an environmentalist who protects plants and saves Deer,
And a split-personality psychologist who sits as peaceful as a dove!

Before the fall, Eden must have been something like this,
Peaceful, serene, full of love and enchanting,
Brimming with creative fervor and nothing amiss,
Here we are all complete, united in every heart beat.

Personally I have grown ten-fold with you guys,
Harboring strength, facing fears, accepting the truth and forgetting broken ties,
I’m renewed, re-born a new me,
Because of the love of this wonderful PACH Family.


Thank you PACH ! :)