Creativethinkerme's Blog

THE FLYING COFFIN

creativethinkerme — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 08:58:14 +0000

The Indian Air Force (IAF) again triggers the head line with eighth crash of the defense aero model for the year 2009 – with MiG21 fighter plane crash being the latest – snatching the life of a young fighter pilot, Lt. Manu Akhouri. With a series of crashes, the plight of IAF is at stake. Recapitulating seven crashes until last November 2008 at Hashimara, where in a MiG27 on a routine sortie crashed near the airbase. Wing Commander M. Sisodia and Flight Lieutenant Ramesh Karthik bailed out well in time before the plane burst into fire. The other able contingents to follow the list since January 2009 are:

1. Flt Lt. Rushikesh Ramani

2. Flt Lt Manu Akhouri

3. Wing Commander. R S Dhaliwal

4. Flt Lt. Varun Kumar

5. Wing Commander. Butalia

6. Sqn Ldr. Ritin Jain

7. Sqn Ldr. Nitin Chaturvedi

8. Wing Cmdr. P.S Narah

9. Wing Cmdr. Praveek K

10. Wing Cmdr. C.K. Shah

11. Sqn Ldr. S. Ilyaraj

who unfortunately lost their lives. Can anyone justify the loss of life here please?

There isn’t an Iota percent of speculation regarding how capable these pilots are, one of the best among the picked up lots from the defense academy. What for our Government is spending fortunes in training such cream from the forces? Are their lives priceless? It is an irrecoverable loss. It’s a matter of pride to server the nation, but if the young officers are offered flying coffins as an integral part of their profession, it’s a matter of an absolute menace, if not for the brave hearts then surely for their beloved.

How can the above mentioned deceased toll be justified? I bet, no one has an answer to it. I recently witnessed a debate on television where in the topic of discussion included the tender invited to replace the outdated defense equipments and machines. It was elucidated that it takes at least a time span of 10 years to run through the tender consisting of umpteen documented pages, by when the technology becomes some what outdated, well illustrated quoting the examples of fighter planes for Air force and the Naval ships. A situation like this totally absurd.

Imagine the psychic trauma which the families of the officers have to go through day-in and day-out. How can the parents be assured of their children, being in the most dignified profession, are take care of? If Patriotism is for the nation, what do you call a loss of life due to such ignorance by the nation itself? If we are ensured protection and security by our able soldiers, who would ensure theirs? How can we be so self-centric? Wake up!! The common people of India…Wake Up!!!! Its time to raise our voice against such fallacious conduct of our Government. We have done it before, so can we today…

As this topic is pretty closely connected to my heart, it hurts as such events become a nightmare for many like me. Have we become so thick skinned that we ignore such mis-happenings? Every officer happens to be a son/brother/fiancé/husband/uncle/nephew/friend to someone. Such loss is unacceptable. My heartfelt condolences to the families of such officers who have been dedicated and honest to their profession till their last breath.

A plea to the Government of India: Do not give a reason to the upcoming youth not to join the forces, just because of your ignorance.

Jai Hind.

HUMAN PSYCHE…..A Thought To Ponder [;)]

creativethinkerme — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 11:05:50 +0000

Ever wondered why we get along with some people and not with some (or probably many)? But is it a forced effort that we make to gel with someone or it’s the will of an individual? Such questions keep circulating, if not in many, surely in my mind. Does likes attract and the unlike(s) repel? What is this phenomena all like?

Well I get to understand it as an individuals Psyche. We surely have the right to choose the kind of people we want in our life. Well a brain teaser strikes here too. What if the chosen one turns out to be the one who can hurt? What’s next in store? Ever given a thought….hmmmm…Nope…

Ever planned a Rendezvous with Nous?????? – Guess it might have an answer to all of the above mentioned. Perhaps the credentials of the outcome might not be satisfactory or probably will remain partially answered. Why is there an unclear panorama? Why do we comprehend a half filled glass in different tangents? Why does everything seem glorious when you are high in spirits (I mean it in literal terms and nothing pertaining to SPIRIT as a pleasance…ha ha ha…..) viz-a-viz an unpleasant day? Guess this thought lead to the evolution of the word “MOOD SWING” …ha ha ha ha…… [:)]

Well to think of there are legion thoughts to chew-over, ruminate, excogitate……But have there been any concrete answers in response to the “Think..Think..Think” phenomena? Now that’s a question to PONDER, Isn’t it????? [:)]

Cheers

DISTRESS – A MONOSYLLABLE

creativethinkerme — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 08:27:10 +0000

It is just recently when I discovered the depth of the word – MENTAL DISTRESS. With the so called recession hitting every individual, the word is lately gaining all its importance. Yes, I dare say, it surely did have its impact on me too. At times I wonder, is it just the current situation which leads to this ultimate vexed situation or there is more scope of spreading impact of this virtual MONOSYLLABLE.

With the current ambiance at work, the aftermath on individuals leads to disharmony and frustration let out at loved ones is too common a scenario. Isn’t there a way an individual can feel secured of his / her basic needs (which obviously includes: A desired Job in hand, time for oneself and loved ones & satisfaction after execution of an activity).

A personal belief says an individual is to be motivated to perform an activity, directing his/her performance towards achieving what is desired out of them. When these activities rather get imposed, the zeal to perform is radically erased. This causes stress (which probably led to the eventual evolution of the theory – Stress Management). Do we actually need such theories to protect our happiness? It’s become a scuffle in our daily routine and a hallucinated idea takes away the irrecoverable loss of time, just worrying.

What is the solution to DISTRESS? Simple DE-STRESS….but how????????? Pointers which I discovered to DE-STRESS myself includes:

1. Early start of the day with a big broad smile [:)] (remember fresh oxygen helps fighting toxins).
2. Practice Yoga, hit the gym or guess some time out to pray…might just do wonders.
3. Carry a planner and have a defined learning for the day (value addition)…remember learning has no end and change is persistent…
4. Take at least 15minutes a day for oneself….Trust me it’s important and a necessity.
5. Learn to choose the best of criticism thrown at you. Its helps in self improvement. (Mind it: only the best of criticism).
6. Speech is silver; Silence is gold…Choose the best of adjectives and measure your words before they get executed.
7. Smell Good..Listen good…Sound good…..a great mantra.
8. Patience is the key to success. (I know what I mean [;)] )
9. Ignorance is a strict no no…remember you are always tried and tested at gun point.
10.Happiness is a voyage…some see opportunity even in a storm..Anchoring the ship is not always the best of solutions…think about it……

Cheers

Happy Independence Day

creativethinkerme — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 07:41:51 +0000

“I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country. “ – Nathan Hale

True words were never spoken loud, but read and believed solitarily. Patriotism, Heroism, Discipline, Courage, Honour and Dutiful are the best of adjectives which describes our Indian Army in 360 degrees. Known for their valiance and toughness, the audacious lads have always been an attraction to many like me since child hood. These fine and well bred youths joining the armed forces get imbibed in the glorious heritage and the time honour.

I still remember the days when I used to long to meet my uncle – who himself serving the forces – used to pay a visit and it used to be the best of the days. Those coloured punishment plumes used to be an absolute delectation. I was too young to empathise its meaning but with time I managed to get a gist of it [;)] . Right from my love for the Combat Uniform to the claustrophobic experience in the Tank demo was one of the kinds. The passion to know more about this dignified occupation drove me to many of the Cantonment across the length and breadth of the country till date and they have been an experience for a life time.

Often posted at places with extreme climatic condition, whether at spine-chilling cold in high altitudes of Siachen or in the scorching summer heat in the deserts of Rajasthan, I wondered how did these Jawan manage to stay away from home and comfort for long durations, knowing the fact that their life is at risk every single second. An instance which brought corrections to my opinion was when I had a One ‘O One with a Jawan in the valley of Kashmir. This is what he had to say “Everyone knows that life is a continuous journey. It does not end when I die. This is what I say to my loved ones who care and worry about me. But I also tell them that even if I were to die and be born again, in my next birth I will again join the Army and serve my nation. That’s my motto for all lives to come.” I was left speechless. All that I could do was to give him a friendly pat and exchange an assuring smile. I probably have a negligible experience to share but respect it from the bottom of my heart.

The slogan “Be An Army Man…Be A Winner For life” is for a person imbued with passion, discipline and confidence and can achieve their dignity and strength and earn the respect and admiration of his peers. And our officers, keeping up the tradition, surely do not have a compeer. Infact it goes for all the three Prestigious forces of our nation. Not to forget, my heart goes to the families of all the personnel’s for their everlasting support.

Remembering all the brave hearts who have been a part of the peace keeping activity and the martyrs who led our nation from the forefront fighting terror on this proud occasion. I dedicate this write up to my family, friends, and acquaintances in the armed forces. Your contribution is truly valued and I feel extremely proud to be associated with you all. Thank you for letting us live and breathe with freedom.

Wish you all a very Happy 62-Independence Day.

Jai Hind !!!!!!!!!!

University Jaunt – Long & Short of It

creativethinkerme — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 07:17:53 +0000

I am a graduate from University of Delhi (DU) and a part of one of the most prestigious courses which our college offered – Bachelors in Business Economics, where in my collage was affiliated to North Campus, the Department of Business Economics situated in South Campus and my college was located in the East Campus…Phewwww!!… Had a real tough time during the result days as we friends just used to shuttle from one corner to another submitting rechecking or re-evaluation forms….But then still there was some unique merriment travelling in the public transport in the scorching summer heat. It was a phase of life were the acquaintances became the best of Pals and shared some of the most splendid moments with each other.

As the autumn approaches, the “Fest” season in DU is in the air. Visiting colleges, attending jam sessions, representing collage in various events, bumping on to school friends, making more acquaintances ohh myyy myyyy…..Miss those dayzzzz…We used to have our fests during the month of December. I had a blast especially during the second year of my grad as I went pally with the best of lots both from my department and others. We were all in a groovy mood and knew what we wanted from the three day fest which our college conducted. Hooting and hauling during the fashion show, charging on to the stage performing with full ebullience, getting on the tables and shaking our legs to the tune of the rock band, giggling and guffawing loud in the “Hassya Kavi Sammelan”…….In fact spending most of the 72 hours just with friends, friends and friends.

When I look back I wonder if it is just the Fest time I had so much exuberance. No definitely not. I treasure all the time I spent with my fellow class mates chit chatting, post the lecture hours “Babbar Sher” session with the seniors and juniors, playing cricket inside the classroom and breaking the window and their panes, marking proxy for our fellow mates, being a partner in crime as a group , dealing with the tug of war between early morning blues and the worst of lectures, slipping out of the boring lectures and fleeing away to catch the latest at the box-office @ PVR or CSM, missing lectures to treat the taste buds munching the delicacies made by our MADRASI bhaiya in the canteen, bunking classes in mass and going on a distant outing in the outskirts, the mischief carried on during our industrial trip, waking late nights to make notes and friends just barge in to pick up the late night efforts and Photostat the material just before the exams, a day before exams getting the feel of “ Kuch to hua hai..Kuch ho gaya hai” and while looking at the question paper getting a mass feeling of “Sab kuch alag hai…Sab kuch naya hai”, ha ha ha [:)] [:)] …………… and the list goes on…..

I never wanted to grow past these days. Three years at the university is a long & short of an experience. And today I feel elated when I think of my buddies from universities performing par excellence in their respective careers and life. But what makes them still special are their never changed demeanor and the unconditional love and support till date. Thank you so much GUYZZZZZ for giving and sharing some of the justest days of your life and accepting me as your friend despite my warts.

Cheers [:)]

Hand Full of Fun :) :)

creativethinkerme — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 06:59:12 +0000

So it was a call again….This time the purpose of my visit was to attend a very special occasion… “The Battle Honour Day – CELEBRATION”. After a tedious schedule at work front, I let my hair down and was all set for my next trip down to my most cherished destination – The Army Cantonment [:)] [:)]

Heard of the saying “The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it”. That’s exactly what I did. I boarded the train on the 5th of Dec 2008 soon after a hectic day and happily landed at my eagerly awaited destination the very next morning. The day started with a bang. With a delayed train schedule, I was head over heels to get ready for the 1st event in my Itinerary for the day – The Welfare Meet. The ladies were well attired in Indian traditional wear. The guests of honour -Mrs. Chand and Mrs. Rajagopal- were warmly welcomed and the event started with the lighting of lamp followed by a Vandana.

The fellow ladies of Jawans had put up a howling maiden – theater show on Women power, followed by a fashion show marking individual style statements depicting national integrity. The ladies were acknowledged for their remarkable achievements and so were the youngsters for their academic excellence. It was a commendable effort put in by the officers’ wives along with the first lady, to build up the confidence in the ladies to display their concealed talents. Kudos to you Ladies……..

The Meet was concluded with a very informative thought shared by the guest of honors, which was self motivating in itself. As a civilian, I personally lived the moment and I am glad I was a part of this ceremony…Thank you uncle and aunt for giving me this opportunity.

Going forth, I rushed back home for a luncheon at the Commanding Officer’s (CO) place [my official residing address [;)] lolls’]. On my way back home, I discovered a very unique arrangement in the groovy array of bushes and shoots. And guess what I discovered, the shade under which the seating arrangement was made for the luncheon turned out to be a Parachute. MAN!!!!! That’s height of creativity……In a few hours I was set for my 2nd event in my Itinerary – AN ENGLISH LUNCHEON.

It was 2:00 PM and you bet, the men in OLIVE GREENwere bang on time. Hey not to cut here, a lady officer, is too a part of the regiment – a vibrant character. The afternoon went off well. I too tried being a host for the day and believe me it was an awing experience. Not to forget, most spouses of the respective officers were right up on their toes for the next big bang in the evening which bechances to be my 3rd event in my Itinerary for the day. Your absence was surely felt ladies, but your thought surely remained a part of the luncheon at the back of the CO and his bête half’s mind.

Now came the most awaited evening for me.

EVENT: Battle Honour Day
DATE: 6th DEC. 2008
VENUE: OFFICER’S MESS
TIME: 7:30 PM ONWARDS
DRESS CODE: FORMALS

Finally the time came when I along with mom stepped into the Officer’s Mess. We were warmly greeted by the CO and the 1st lady (Sounds different addressing uncle and aunt like this [;)] ) along with a set of young officers spruced up in formal evening wear, officially addressed as – BLUE PATROL. The ambience was exceptionally prodigious. Additionally, the Army band relatively marked their presence with the drilled repertoire. The detailing was soo intricate that it immaculately complimented the theme of the day – AQUA. The evening commenced with a presentation on the brave hearts who laid their lives and a small note of achievements penned down on every individual senior officer who have led the regiment till date. Followed by the unveiling of the new Trophy by the guest of honour Retd. Lt.General. Chand, the evening proceeded with the flow of guest invitees. The ladies of the regiment were elegantly decked up in exquisite POCHHAMBALLI SAREES form a range of colour pallet, signaling the latest vogue.

As the time passed by, the guests were driven down to the dance floor straight from the barbeque counter, the bar counter and so on. The floor was set on fire within seconds with the latest track played by the Disk Jockey (DJ). All that I can recollect is the madness within every individual officer right on floor. Hard to believe but they are one amongst us – FREAKING CRAZY. Personally, my favourite was from the movie OYE LUCKY…..LUCKY OYE, the title track. It was hilarious watching everyone shaking their legs on the dance floor in this particular track. My heart sank into my stomach laughing. It’s truly said, one who cannot dance says the stage is not ready, but then it has no relevance in the defense. Guess that’s the spirit these men & woman in olive green carry with them – INVARIABLY…

Finally, we all settled for a break wherein I got this opportunity to interact with the officers, their respective spouses. The photo sessions were on in full swing. No one wanted to miss on any action, nor did I ever want to. Finally came the Jam Sessionfor the host of the evening, I & mom being an exception though [;)], post the guests departed. Ultimately a perfect start has to have a vivid end…Who says, not me definitely!!!!!!! The day began from there on…What can I more ask for…Experience, fun, knowledge, friends, and what not….believe me I got more than what I deserve. The congenial character of every individual made my stay so comfortable, despite being formal.

I sincerely need to thank all the people who did make my trip memorable.

THANK YOU ……

Uncle & Aunt for your unconditional love and care, my baby bro Anand and the entire Unit, specially Jyotsna , Vikas, Rakesh , Aafreen , Ankur, Kavita, Sooksham, Ananya, Uma, Pradeep, Aditya, Anuj, Samrath, Alok, Mala aunty to name a few.

Phewwww…its hard to believe that all this happened to me in one day..M TRULY BLEZZZZDDD … Heyyy hold on, I have more to say…but you gotta wait ‘n’ watch……

Cheers

THE ” D ” FACTOR……..DREAM, DANCE & DAD

creativethinkerme — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 06:05:43 +0000

I believe I was waiting for this most special evening through out my life until then. It was just a few weeks before my birthday, and I got the most cherished gift which came my way well in advance – a ticket to a DANCE ACADEMY. I was in cloud nine and could not believe my ears when my most treasured asset – my Sis- hushed this to me. I had to join for a Winter Workshop, but a rare fear inside me was holding me back from enrolling – Fear of DAD…Dancing was a strict “NO- NO” at my place, which fortunately or unfortunately made us, the siblings, learn Karnatic Music (with all due respects to my teacher) for close to almost 7 impeccable years.

Finally, I made some uncounted calls to my Sister right from outside the school where the registrations were happening. How low on confidence I was or probably say still had the DAD fear syndrome in me . After a successful orientation by the Instructors of the Academy I had my ID card issued in exchange of a fee receipt (Surely the funding came from my very own 24*7 ATM – My Sis). There was a delight and exhilaration within me until it all melted down just like an ice on fire when I’d to encounter DAD in the evening. I did get my share of severe scolding from HIM but my Sis and Mom too became the victim of his grouching. I was terribly sorry for what had happened and was whining badly until my Sis solaced me and as always, became my strength to carry on and pursue DANCE which was a dream always.

As it is rightly said, time surely is a healing factor; DAD too came out of his stubbornness and accepted my gusto. From here my journey in the Academy began with a big bang. I was enjoying every second I spent learning one of my dream-Dancing. “Jazz” is what I specialized in. Time flew by and did not even get to know where, when and how it was my turn next to be on stage. I surely was in jitters as I knew I had just 2 minutes to give my best in front of some 250 odd audiences, whose eyes were just glued on to me. But never ever knew how stirring it felt after what you call a true “STAGE PROFESSIONAL PERFORMANCE”. I experienced a unique flavour of life, a very new aspect of self discovery probably might just sound too good .

Thank you so much Sis (Didi). Without you I surely would have not been a part of this Academy for good 4.5 years as a student and an instructor. Every year on my birthday you gave me the best of things I could have ever possessed, but this gift just stands out, as I discovered myself and framed an identity for myself as an individual in all arenas of life. You ensured and guaranteed your presence in each stage performance of mine, which definitely lifted up my spirit every single time I made an appearance on stage. On a closing note, you surely did convince DAD to watch my stage performance in person along with you and Mom, and his reaction surely did convey that I have not let him down. Phewwwww…… :0 :0