THE SHOWMAN!

Good evening! its yet another Sunday evening and as I prep for the week coming up listening to CHORI CHORI vinyl to unwind from the chaotic week i've had, I want to share a short note for someone who I got to know yesterday, not personally but thru TV. 

Yeh Raat Bheegi Bheegi from the Film Chori Chori is such a classy number on a sunday night, just perfect to end the week and dive into a new one, with positive vibe. Raj Saab's films have always given us some classic music. Off course his films are nothing but a masterpiece, full of emotion, love, hope, energy, positivity and the list goes endless. Similarly Raj Saab was full of all these emotions... Well I remember while being a child when I saw parts of Mera Naam Joker and the song Jeena Yaha Marna Yaha, almost bought tears to me even as a kid, the emotion was so strong that it connected instantly within the child I was. I must have been probably 7 years old when Raj Saab passed away, I remember mentioning to my friend, "I wanted to see him once in person." It was practically impossible for a child like me to even wish to see someone like Raj Kapoor in person but there was something about Raj Saab which had that connect in me even at that age. Me writing about Raj Saab is like "सूर्याला दिवा दाखवणे"as they say in Marathi. I am too ordinary a person to write about the legend. But that also does not mean I am going to write about any ordinary person.

Well I was watching a new show on NETFLIX yesterday - DINING WITH THE KAPOORS. I was quite hooked to it since it was about Raj Saab and the KAPOOR Family. It's indeed a classic of a show to watch, yes it has to be classic since it's about Raj Saab! And also because it's about celebrating his life with some amazing delicious food. Families coming closer and getting together is such a lovely thought in itself! It reminded me about our family since even I grew up in a similar joint and a huge family. I've made sure I have been connected with everyone in some way or the other even if there are any minor setbacks here and there within the family. Also I am grateful to my uncles who have had the Camera since the 80's and captured all the moments in the form of photographs. I made sure I got all the Old Albums from our old house to my house and kept them safely. This exact similar moment from the show caught my attention of this gentleman Mr. Armaan Jain, the grandson of Raj Saab. Yes This note is about Mr. Armaan Jain.

There is a point in the show where you get a glimpse of all the collectibles of Raj Saab are treasured and labeled with love and care, by none other than Mr. Armaan Jain. I was beyond delighted how he secured all of Raj Saabs belongings and preserved them with love. I was surprised when I got to know he never met Raj Saab, but I am sure he must have heard all the lovely stories about him. And well it's Armaan who has been hosting this dinner and cooking himself, at first I thought It's a show so it must be scripted, why will he cook, but later I found out this gentleman comes from a background of culinary expertise besides the director that he is. And yes he was cooking and sweating it out. Oh and the way he plated the food was top notch. I mean even if he has done this for producing a show, but look at the thought, he has made it so immersive, you just can't NOT notice his efforts. 

The core thought of getting the family together and making it happen takes a huge amount of planning and efforts. Only a person who values his family and the heritage can think of creating something like this. From what I have seen and known of him, he is someone who likes to travel back in time with food. You must see he still has the old recipes, handwritten with exact ingredients... I'm sure when he must be crafting them, the flavor from the old recipe book must be traveling in some magical form and making them even special, more flavorful and more authentic. Only someone like Armaan can manage to weave this sort of a flavorful magic. Not Just the food, the thought of the seating arrangements made, its just fantastic!!! He has given thought and attention to detail in every possible aspect. Keeping Raj Saabs legacy alive with the grand dinner parties is something Armaan has pulled off effortlessly with grace! 

The way he has weaved food, family and films so perfectly, If Raj Saab were here today, would have been so proud of him!!!

While I watched the show, halfway through the show I hopped onto instagram, followed Armaan and messaged him in excitement about what I felt. And to my surprise, I got a reply from him in the most humble and grounded manner. Honestly I never expected him to reply me. But I was surprised to see his sweet reply that now makes me his fan! And hell yes I am going to order from his cloud kitchen soon. I am sure thats where i'll get the nostalgic flavor which has been passed down thru several generations. 

Dear Armaan, you are truly a gem of a person!!! I have hardly known you with the show, but I think I know what you would be like as a person. Thank you for giving us Dining With the Kapoors! 

Bon Appetite!  

THE BOYS OF BANDHAVGARH

 ।। श्री गणेशाय नमः ।। 

THE BOYS OF BANDHAVGARH

FIRST DRAFT - 24 May 2023

Chapter 01

It was a hot summer afternoon in the month of April in the year1988. The young lads from the nearby villages of Bandhavgarh, were busy soaking themselves in the pond to cool of from the scorching heat. Summer holidays were on and everyone was busy playing in the pond, lakes and streams. Kanhaiya walked towards the pond as he finished his daily chore of grazing the cows and sat on the grass. Vishnu yelled, hey Kanhaiya, you are late even today, we have been waiting for you. Mahadev splashed water towards Kanhaiya and said, he is always late, must have gone deep in the forest with the herd... Pawan who was drenched, walked out of the pond and picking up his pancha (towel) wiping himself dry and sat next to Kanhaiya and said, Kanhaiya ignore these two, you tell me did you get berries for me? I am so hungry. 

Berries! Mahadev and Vishnu screamed... Hey Kanhiya you are the bestest friend we have, come on please share some with us, please... Kanhaiya still had a frown and handed over the berries to his friends. They stared relishing the berries but suddenly noticed that Kanhaiya was not eating and neither he seemed interested in anything, rather he looked troubled and worried about something. Mahadev asked him, hey Kanhu, what is the problem, you seem to be restless. To which Kanhaiya replied, yes my friend, another person from our village has gone missing and this time it is Chaudhary Kaka. To which Vishnu replied in shock, What! I just met him last evening while I was returning from the farm with babuji. He seemed all good, and told us he was walking towards his farm since he forgot his tools back there. 

The Boys were worried since this was the third time someone from their or the nearby villages had gone missing since the last three months. The Forest Officials and the Police were doing the best of their investigation but they were unable to solve this mystery. 

They headed back home and met again after dinner at Vishnu's house which used to be their routine during the holidays. They used to discuss several topics, either school or general knowledge. Each of them had their special interests. Vishnu had deep interest in astronomy and he used to share and educate the rest with his favourite topic. Mahadev was very good at art and craft, he shared his set of interest and knowledge with the rest. Pawan had interest in woodwork and carpentry and was good at building structures and objects. Kanhaiya loved Geography and Nature, he could imitate bird sounds and had a great memory with the forest pathways and knowledge of birds. To add to their passion and interest was the Seth Gyanchand Foundation Library which fuelled their interests and helped them with the best of the books. Late Seth Gyanchand was a philanthropist and had set up educational institutes and a huge library which had the best of the books back in the times. The children from the nearby villages were engrossed in reading, which was education as well as entertainment for them since TV was still a rare find. Radio was pretty common in the household. But many children in the village were excited to read books since they were free and there was no limit on reading. 

That night while they gathered, Kanhaiya showed them a few bird feathers of a rare bird which was found only very deep in the forest. They all were quite intrigued to see that. Mahadev got a new book about the temples of Ellora and told everyone how the Ajantha and Ellora were carved out of a single rock and were monoliths. They kept discussing and chatting until their parents reminded them to go to bed.  

Chapter 02 - 20 June 2023

It was another bright and sunny morning at the village and the boys gathered at the usual market which was also the center of the small village. The village center had all the shops, post office, police station which also had a forest office in the same complex. Each village had a small forest office since most of the villages neighboured the Bandhavgarh National Park. The boys saw a new face, a boy of their age sitting outside the police station playing with his fancy car. Vishnu exclaimed, wow what a toy he has, come lets go and check it out. Mahadev said yes lets go and see what toy he has. They went near the stairs where the new boy sat alone, playing with his car. He did not look like someone from the village. His attire was like a typical city boy. Kanhaiya walked upto him and asked, hello my friend, why are you sitting alone, you seem to be new here, is there anything I can help you with. To which the boy smiled at him and said, hello I am Omkar, you can call me Om, all my friends used to call me Om, but now... I had to come here. He frowned upon and looked down. Vishnu asked, are you lost or something? Doesn't look like... Oh no, replied Om, I have moved here with my parents. My father Arjun Rathod is the new forest officer in this area, and he has been posted here. A lady walked out, she smiled at Om and said looks like you already made friends here. Om said yes ma, oh but i dont know their names yet. The boys introduced themselves and asked if he wanted to come along to see the village. Om was excited and jumped with joy and asked his mom, Ma can I go around with them. Even before his mother could nod a yes, he jumped the stairs and walked with his new friends towards the village. Om's ma was glad to see Om with his new friends. 

Here Om walked down with his friends and they took him to the library, Om was happy to see a huge library in a tiny village. He too loved to read and was glad to see the variety of the books in the library. They then went to the pond and Kanhaiya treated him with the sweetest jamuns. Om had never tasted such sweet jamuns. Vishnu popped from nowhere with some tiny juicy mangoes and they all binged on the fruits and relished them. Om was very excited as he climbed the tree and sat on a branch chatting with his new friends. Moreover he was glad he would be going to the same school as his friends since it was the only school in the nearby villages. 

Om was delighted and was back home with mango and jamun stains on his clothes. His mother was happy to see him so excited with his new friends. Om's father Arjun Rathod was excited to see Om enjoying the village life. This was his first posting with his family, his previous postings he was all alone and this time decided to take the family along. 

The next morning Vishnu and Mahadev were outside Om's house which was in the Police Quarters. They were ringing their bicycle bells and calling Om's name. Om popped out of the window and yelled, 2 minutes, ill be right there. Ma... Maaaa... Om shouted as he ran out of the house, Maa.. I am going for cycling with my friends. Om's Ma said ok, but dont go too far and come back in the afternoon, tell your friends to have lunch with us. 

Om headed out with his friends on their bicycles. The chased each other throughout the entire village. Om was excited to ride through open fields and mango trees. They stopped by whenever they saw nice ripe jamuns and berries. It was noon and he asked everyone to come home for lunch. They were back home tired and exhausted. Om's Ma welcomed them and asked them to freshen up. They all sat for lunch, Mahadev got a small pack which was made up of stiched leaves which had the best of the berries and handed over to Ma, and said Aunty these are for you, the best of the berries from our village. Om's Ma happily accepted the gift and got startled with such loving behaviour and upbringing of these kids. Thanks, she said. And served some delicious food to everyone. The boys had a delightful meal and then dozed off while playing in Om's room. 

This was now their daily routine, lunches were at either of their houses, their mothers too loved doting over these kids and it was a fun vacation for them. The village had spacious houses and  couple of times everyone gathered at Mahadev's house in the evening and post dinner they kept chatting and discussing about everything that they could. Everyone lived close by and parents were well informed so it was safe for the kids as well. Their vacation was indeed turning out exciting. 

Chapter 2 - Completed June 26.

Chapter 03 - 26 June 2023

It was a regular morning at the village and the forest officials along with the police continued search for Chaudhary Kaka who had gone missing few days ago. Arjun Rathod was on duty and was scanning each and every nook and corner. His day was full of search operations, combing up the forest in the best possible way he could. Every morning he started early to get the daylight advantage since he had to be back before dusk. The forest area was dense and search operations were in full swing.

Aawaaz Ki Duniya - 04 - MnM Talkies

Welcome to the world of sound! Come See the Sound. Yes you read it right. That's what MnM talkies has been doing all these years with sound. This till date has been my favourite, most loved production house which produces top notch quality audio content. These people are the wizards when it comes to audio shows. 

So once again I just want to give a brief intro as to why I love the audio medium the most. Most of us love to hear stories, we have been listening to various stories since childhood and while someone narrated us stories we used to be lost in our own imagination with our own interpretation of the story told. We used our imagination to create the characters and the events described and depending on the detail of the storytelling our imagination used to supply each detail of the story in our heads which only we could see. So suppose there are 5 other people along with you sitting listening to the story there are 5 different visuals of the same story with different set of characters rendered by each one of our imaginative minds. Isn't this fascinating enough. This is one major reason for my love to audio stories and the format. But besides this, since childhood I've always liked someone telling me a story, its more entertaining than watching a film. Cut to present times while I travel to work and the average travel time to reach work in a city like mumbai is around 1 hour everyday. How much of radio you can listen to? How much of songs? If you are stuck in traffic then additional time to add to the boredom. I used to drive down to Lower parel and back and the travel time used to be tiring, thats when I came across several audio shows which used to come on radio, the best part was these were really well produced shows and extremely entertaining. The first few Shows I heard were as follows

1. Yaad Shehar With Neelesh Misra on 92.7 Big FM
2. Sainaath on Fever 104
3. Friends in a metro - Fever 104 and SoundCloud 
4. Fever Fry - Fever 104 and Sound Cloud

So these got me intrigued in the world of radio / audio format. These shows had a set showtime and in case if I missed it I would be disappointed! Fortunately later I found out that Fever 104 used to park the episodes on SoundCloud and thats how I could enjoy all the remaining episodes. 

Later with apps like Spotify, Audible and many more a lot of audio content got into production. My joy knew no bounds when I stumbled upon these apps and content. An hour of travel listening to shows while i drive or rode my motorcycle made my commute bit relaxing and to some extent traffic did not matter. 

Apart from the entertainment, these shows added some peace of mind in the busy schedule I had. I used to look forward for that drive/ride back home eager to know whats going to happen next in the show I am listening to. That was the "ME TIME" I got since even after reaching home there are other responsibilities. 

OK so the reason for such a long introduction is that ever since i've been listening to the content produced by MnM talkies, its not only entertainment, but also knowledge of other cultures, simple teachings and small town experiences are which I got to know and learn. It was also a revival to some moral stories which we hear in our childhood and forget the moral of the story and these shows brought it back to me. 

So let me introduce you to MnM Talkies, This is a company formed by a bunch of talented people about who I will write about in the next few posts. So, Mr. Mantra, is the founder of MnM talkies and they have been wizards in this area. 

The first podcast I came across from this production was Mine and Yours, its available on Audible and I would highly recommend you all to listen to it. Then I kept stumbling upon a lot of MnM branded content until I heard Bhaskar Bose, this is our own James bond / Sherlock / Byomkesh in todays times. Well I will have to write another long post about each of their shows. 

Their shows production values are top-notch, with excellent sound design and voice acting that draws the listener into the story. This format allows MnM to explore a wide range of themes and topics, from love and relationships to crime and suspense. It also keeps the listener engaged and curious about what will happen next. Excellent Storytelling with high quality production is the reason for MnM Talkies being successful and popular amongst the audiences. 

They are always looking for new ways to push the boundaries of podcasting and create content that is fresh, exciting, and innovative. From Mine and Yours, Bhaskar Bose, Kahaniyon Ka Mantra, Batman ek Chakravyuh, I Hear You, Shanaya, Dr Phobia, Commander and many more, the list just goes on. Each show is different and they have also created a multiverse with crossovers in their shows which is an excellent innovation. 

I have heard almost everything. Many a times with these shows i've come across simple life lessons. There have been times I've had a tough day and these shows have made me forget the stress as i transit on my way home, refreshing me to be back to normal again. Sometimes I felt maybe god wanted me to take that advice and its come across in this format. I've laughed at Bikesh Da's funny anecdotes, felt bad while Bhaskar separated from Bikesh as he moved to another space and time, (sorry for giving some spoilers here). Got mad at Biplav for being really mischievous and crazy, by the way who can imagine Vrajesh Hirjee as a Mad Psycho Villain, yes another spoiler here... Got intrigued with the storytelling and wondered maybe they made all these shows just to entertain me. And also felt happy for adding credits of VO artists at the end of the show. 

They have an amazing team, from Story Writers like Asif Syed, Obaid Rehman and Musicians and sound wizards like Shadab Hashmi, Maneesh Sharma, Kunal patil. Producers like Azeem Mulani and this list is never ending, MnM is a powerhouse of talent and recently they got Mr. Sumanto Ray on board. I know of Sumanto Da since he was the brain behind Fever Fry one of the best mimicry comedy shows and Sainaath, another superb storytelling experience both on Fever 104 FM. A lot of bollywood artists have been associated with MnM and its an amazing experience to hear them in a different setting. 

I may edit and add a few more instances and experiences regarding this excellent production house who indeed makes you see the sound. 

But for now a heartfelt thanks to MnM Talkies and Dearest Mantramugdh for all the entertainment. I will be sharing posts of the people from MnM Talkies of who I DONT KNOW personally but what I feel about them. Yes I don't know anyone personally except one person who I will write about next.

Also Please note this is not a PAID review or write-up, I am a huge fan and this is like my diary I keep a note of :)  

Thanks again and Bhaskar Da and Bikesh Da we are waiting for you to get back into action, dekho yaar itna badhiya write up likha hai, ab toh aa jaao wapis. Just kiddin! while I know you are busy with your on going assignments and will come back soon with something interesting on Bhaskar Bose. 

Signing off for now, 

A very happy and content fan. Thanks again and loads of love to you all!

Jyotirbhaskar Jayant Salgaokar Sir - Ek Anubhav

नमस्कार - आपल्या सगळ्यांच्या रोजच्या दैनंदिन कार्यात एका कॅलेंडर चा खूप मोठा सहभाग असतो. आमच्या घरात कॅलेंडर आणी पंचांग ह्या दोन्ही गोष्टी आम्ही लहानपणापासून पाहात आलोय. आम्ही पौरोहित्य करणारे ब्राह्मण नसलो तरी मला चांगले आठवते १९७०-८० च्या दशकात व त्यापूर्वी घरोघरी पंचांग उपलब्ध असायचे. आम्ही मूळचे रत्नागिरीचे भंडारी समाजातले. क्षित्रय गटात मोडणारे आम्ही भंडारी, आमचे पूर्वज छत्रपती श्री शिवाजी महाराजांचा आरमार सांभाळायचे, व महाराजांनी आम्हाला मायनाक हि पदवी बहाल केली होते व आज ते आमचे आडनाव आहे, ह्याचं विस्तारित कथारूप वेगळ्या पोस्टमध्ये करिन.  बरं विषयाला न वळवता मुद्द्यांकडे येतो.  

आमचे आजोबा श्री बाळकृष्ण रावजी मायनाक ह्यांना पंचांगाची बऱ्यापैकी समाज होती. पंचांग कश्याप्रकारे वाचावे, हे त्यांना माहित होते. पण सर्वसामान्यांसाठी ह्या पंचांगाला कॅलेंडर बरोबर जोडण्याचे काम ज्योतिर्भास्कर श्री जयंत साळगांवकर सर ह्यांनी केले हे आपल्या सर्वाना माहीतच आहे. कालनिर्णय घराघरात, विविध भाषेत व विविध सदरात आपल्याला दिसून येते. एक मराठी मुलगा म्हणून मला कालनिर्णय चा आकंठ आभिमान वाटतो. वाटलाच पाहिजे. हे फक्त कॅलेंडर नसून भरपूर माहितीचे भांडार आहे. व कालनिर्णय बद्धल लिहायला सुद्धा एक वेगळीच पोस्ट बनवावी लागेल. मला आज तुम्हा सर्वाना सांगायची आहे ती श्री जयंत सांगावकर सरांच्या एका मुलाखतीत त्यांनी सांगितलेले कुलदैवताबद्धल त्यांचे विचार. जे अर्थात मला पटले व मी त्या विचारांचे आचरण सुद्धा केले. 

मला आठवत नाही नक्की कुठल्या वर्षाची मुलखत होती. पण हो आजपासून नक्कीच २० वर्षांपूर्वीची असावी. दूरदर्शन वर ज्योतिर्भास्कर श्री जयंत साळगांवकर ह्यांची एक मुलाखत सुरु होती, मी ती मधूनच पाहण्यास सुरुवात केली. 

त्या मुलाखती मध्ये त्यांनी देवपूजा व देव देवतांसंधारबीत काही गोष्टी सांगितल्या, त्यापैकी माझ्या लक्षात राहिलेली व माझ्यावर सकारात्मक बदल झालेली हि गोष्ट. 

ज्योतिर्भास्कर श्री जयंत साळगांवकर सांगत होते, तुम्ही सर्व देवांची पूजा करता, कोणी गणपतीची पूजा करतं कोणी साईबाबांची पूजा करतं. हे उत्तम आहेच पण त्याचबरोबर आपण आपल्या कुलदेवतेची पूजा करतो का? हे हि तितकेच म्हत्वाचे आहे. 

ते म्हणाले, आपण आपल्या कुलदेवतेची पूजा केलीच पाहिजे, आपल्या संकटकाळात सर्वप्रथम धावून येणारी शक्ती आपल्या कुलदेवतेचीच असते. आपल्या सर्वात निकटवर्तीय देव म्हणजेच आपले कुलदैवत. हि छोटीशी गोष्ट, आठवण म्हणा जी माझ्या डोक्यात जणू छापली आहे. मी बराच प्रयत्न केला हि मुलाखत शोधण्याचा पण मला नाही मिळू शकली. खरंच पुन्हा एकदा पाहायला आवडेल हि मुलाखत. असो, बहुतेक त्यांचे हे शब्द माझ्या नशिबी होते व त्यामधून बोध घेऊन त्याचे आचरण करण्याची बुद्दी मला झाली व त्यातनं मला चांगलाच अनुभव आला. आजोबांच्या देवपुजे मुळे आम्हाला आमच्या कुलदेवतेची माहिती होतीच पण पुढे जाऊन मी माझ्या आजोबांकडून कुलदेवतेबद्धल अधिक माहिती मिळवली. 

ज्योतिर्भास्कर श्री जयंत साळगांवकर सरांना आभार मानणे हेच ह्या लेखाचं मूळ उद्धिष्ट. त्यांना प्रत्यक्षात कधी भेटता नाही आलं. पण अजून दररोज सकाळी कालनिर्णय बघताना त्यांचे नाव वाचून खूप छान वाटते. मनातली हि गोष्ट कुठेतरी नोंद करून ठेवावी म्हणून हि पोस्ट लिहिली. पुन्हा एकदा ज्योतिर्भास्कर श्री जयंत साळगांवकर सरांचे मनापासून आभार. 

धन्यवाद सर.

नंदकुमार मायनाक (यतीन)

Aawaaz Ki Duniya - 03 - Neelesh Misra

Arent we all stories, or characters in a story... I think there is a story we watch everyday while we travel, work, eat, drive or play. Imagine you are on a public transport bus and suddenly a lady boards the crowded bus with her laptop bag, managing the crowd and moving to spot a seat. She manages to get a place and hurriedly pops open her laptop to send a few work emails. She gets done with it and spends the remaining 25 minutes in silence and at ease thinking about her struggle from getting up in the morning, getting the kids ready, rushing to get the lunch ready and packing it as she struggles to get her phone charged, gets ready in a jiffy, drops the kids at the school bus stop, runs for a rickshaw to get to the bus stop and manages to catch this bus she boarded just in the nick of time to avoid another late-mark at office. To which her silence is broken with an incoming call from her yaad shehar where she gets lost in the memories of her comfortable small town. Presenting you Neelesh Misra... the great story teller. 

The above short story is not written by him or any of the members of his mandli, they do a great job. This is just a typical draft by me just to build the connection to Neelesh Misra's world. I dont know how well I did it, but I must say if you havent heard Neelesh Misra, you must check his Yaadon Ka Idiot Box series. Well who does not like to listen to stories, everyone does. From children to grown-ups like us, we all love to listen to stories and get on an imaginary world and enjoy the same.

Yaadon ka Idiot Box, yes, thats the show which got me hooked back to radio. As a pre-teen and a teen, I always used to listen to FM radio and record songs on my cassette since movie cassettes were way expensive. FM radio had a great stereo quality broadcast and the recording used to be fairly decent. Moving from stereo FM and cassettes to FM and music on mobile phones and then songs downloaded in mp3 formats loaded on mobile phones is the time I bought a car, my first car and Ta-Ding I got a SONY music system installed. This is somewhere in 2011 where we still had a few CD's in use and Pen Drives loaded with music. Bluetooth was still luxury and took a while to pair and connect. After a certain while it used to be boring to hear the same songs on your pen drive and radio where ads kept popping on and the experience was not so great. This is where I got re-introduced to the world of radio.

One day while returning from my office I heard a radio show - Yaadon Ka Idiot Box by Neelesh Misra and for about the next 45 minutes I enjoyed the show thoroughly. My office used to be at Worli and the driving time used to be not less than 1 hour 15 mins to my house in Powai and for such a long drive alone, entertainment was much needed and nothing could be better than this. 

Every day there was a new story with new characters which came from all over the country and every story carried the aroma and soul of the place it belonged. The dialogues and the script was very well written and the sound effects were equally amazing and adding to the excellence of the show. People from all over the country loved the show since it took them to a small town where they belonged to or a place which made you feel good. The humbleness of the people in a village or small town, the time standing still out there somewhere touched me and many other like me and the person who made us travel to the Yaad Shehar was Neelesh Misra. 

His stories were simple. Had the nostalgia element which hit people hard and made them fall in love with his style of storytelling and his voice. The simplicity and stories from big and small towns from all over india which were relatable to all the listeners which took them to their comfort corners and made them feel emotional and feel good at the same time. 

Getting people from 35 cities together at one place and in one city - the yaad shehar just making them travel thru radio as they travel back to their home from work / college is no small task. 

If in a story he talks about a character taking a flight and travelling in a place, besides the brief and to the point narration, the sound effects of the airplane and on air announcements made you feel that you are on that same flight and experiencing that story. And as he starts narrating the story with the minute details and anecdotes, you realise this is your story, you've been through this at some point in time and you are all the more intrigued in yaad shehar. The detailed but relatable incidences make you realise that yes this did happen to me once or this did happen to someone very close to me. In the hustle bustle of the day to day life, Neelesh Misra was successful in building an audience and take them to those small lanes and corners where simplicity and life was in abundance. 

His stories and simplistic narration is noteworthy, particularly at the time when radio was exploring these new audio shows. This one will always remain special to me. 

Thank You Neelesh Misra Ji for creating the Yaad Shehar which requires no ticket to travel to. 

Aawaaz Ki Duniya - 02 - Ameen Sayani

 "Binaca Geetmaala" takes you back to the days when radio was a popular medium. TV's were a luxury but Radio or Pocket Transistors were in use. The show was run on Radio Ceylon and Vividh Bharti and was hosted by none other than Mr. Ameen Sayani. 

Mr. Ameen Sayani is one of the first the most popular Radio Host known to the world for the last around 60 - 70 years and still continues to entertain all of us. His voice is magical and his command on the languages is scintillating. 

Hosting a show is an art and I think he was the pioneer to have started this trend. My parents always kept telling me about his intriguing style of narration and hosting the show. Besides the songs on the show, it was also Mr. Ameen Sayani's voice which people had fallen in love with. 

Besides radio shows, he also hosted events and voiced for ad jingles. The list for his jingles is endless. His voice is truly magical and his style is unique.

It's still a treat to hear his voice while you listen to shows on audible. The diction, tone and quality of speech is impeccable and unmatched. 

Thank you Ameen Sayani Sir for the wonderful shows, ad jingles and all the entertainment. 

Aawaaz Ki Duniya - 01 - Introduction

Hello Everyone, Its been a while ive posted something or scribbled about something. Not that I am an avid writer, but yes I do like to pen my thoughts here.

So today I would like to take the opportunity to start writing a new segment. Yes a segment in which I would like to talk about a lot of people and hence separate posts for each one of them since its not possible to write about these legends in one single post/article who are behind the camera most of the times. 

Aawaaz ki Duniya me aap sabhi ka swaagat hai !!! Welcome to the world of sound !!! The moment you read the above lines, im sure you either read it in a certain tone and tempo and also thought of some voiceover in your mind with variations on the line.

Yes, voiceover plays a very important role in the entertainment industry. Somewhere I feel its overlooked and due credits are missing most of the times. Many people dont know who is behind the amazing voice unless its a known FACE. The reason I stressed on the word FACE is because you associate every voice with a face, you put a face to the voice. Simplest example is "Aaj Khush to bahot hongey tum haiyn" the moment you read this line you heard Amitabh Bachchan Sir speak in your head in the same voice and tone. Or  "Ye Haath Humko De De Thakur" brings you gabbar - Amjad Khan sir in a flash. With these iconic dialogues, the acting, and the character, the VOICE is what made these dialogues come to life, now wherever you are, imagine in a crowd, and someone plays these dialogues on a loudspeaker, the entire scene plays in front of your eyes. 

Voice and sound, both play a very important role in films, radio, gaming and every other form of entertainment and we never realise the power of this extensive and important medium.

Today I am going to write about names which are popular in the Voiceover Industry but not known to most of the common people. The reason I wanted to write this article featuring people I liked the most is because this is my way to thank them for the entertainment they provided. 

उड़ चला मन!

उड़ चला मन!

It's been a while i've posted something here. Yes off course in todays world of instagram and facebook who writes blogs? And who has the time to read it? But this is my diary and my space for me to express what i feel. So here I am back again with a small scribble.

About a couple of days ago when i was scrolling through my instagram feed, I came across a video by a music producer Janapriyan Levine who is an American producer and I have been liking his music which has the indian flavour blended in. I like fusion music and I kinda connected with the music he makes and have been following him. So back to the video I was talking about, its a video where he is playing a tune composed by him a few years ago. I instantly connected with the tune and shared a small visual note on the comments and he liked it. I was happy to see his appreciation. But the tune got stuck in my head and I thought of a couple of lines which i've scribbled in here.

You can watch the video for the music here - [https://www.instagram.com/p/CgfAhMPpJLz/?hl=en] and im sure even you would just fall in love with the tune.

And here is a link to Janapriyan Levine's youtube channel for you to enjoy some supercool music - https://www.youtube.com/c/JanapriyanLevine

And here is my scribble.

Baanwara sa yeh man...

This post is dedicated to Chixy!~ The poem title is inspired from the Song Baanwaara Mann by Shri Swanand Kirkire. from the movie Hazaro Khwaishein Aisi.
--

He was an artist, by profession a designer and a creative person. Had been thru many ups and downs in life. At some point he met this beautiful angel fairy who always wanted to be his, but he somehow was in no position to accept her for life. Nevertheless, he wanted to be with the fairy till time permitted and wanted to give her the best he could. She made him fly high on the sky. And they rocked the city, with a no named relationship. A relationship so strong and so pure and so divine. It was something normal people could never understand. It was pure, with unconditional love and happiness. But one day the Fairy got annoyed with him. So badly that she couldnt take this idiots reasons anymore. She just couldnt take it and she fired back. He as usually had no answer. He was lost as always, speechless and restless. And this is wat he had to say!

Baanwara sa yeh mann!!!

baanwara sa yeh mann,
kaise samjhata,
khwaabon ki duniya mein
ek baanwara sa khwaab dekhne chala.

khwaab jo dekha,
toh bole yeh baanwara sa mann,
yeh khwaab na hai mera,
phir bhe laage aapna saa...


khwaab jo toota,
baanwara man bhi rootha,
woh khwaab na tha mera,
aise hi yeh man bas hain baanwaraa.

2nd November 2004 !

Beep beep... His cellphone constantly beeped with sms's asking to meet up asap. He wondered what had happend... he left for office and on his way met up with his friends to find out what it was. there was chaos in the entire group... "arey tere bike pe chale jao tum loog.. reach asap" someone yelled, "arey tu dekh mat, bike chalu kar, jaldi chal blood donation ke liye jaana hain" ... . Vroom as all the bikes zoomed on to the blood bank. On his way to the blood bank, vivek told him about the accident. A lady from his building had met with a major accident and needed blood. Vivek was making sure he informed everyone and took everyone along. 'arey bahut buraa huaa yaar, aunty is in a very bad state... Chances of survival are very less... Priyesh told him as they drove towards the blood bank. He reached the blood bank and they all rushed in. He called up his girlfriend... Well girlfriend was not the right term... Their relationship was almost in splits... Several reasons... memories of their first meet flashed by, it was just a few days back they met, met on the 31st of october... met for the first time... And it was a sweet memory to cherish... She answered the call...

He: hey dear, hows u... U at office?

She : yes, im at office, where are u?

He : i have come here to donate blood...

She : u please dont do it, im worried for you...

He : no babes, ill do it... I understand u worried about me, but relax, its for a cause... Ill be glad if i can help save someones life..

She : Uh, um.. Okay, take care.

He : i will... Ill call u once its done. Bye dear

She : bye.

Beep beep beep... The call got disconnected...

He looked up as the nurse asked, are you the next donor? He replied 'yes' come this way, the nurse said. He lied on a bed as the nurse collected blood he was a little scared but was glad he was helping for a good cause. A few minutes passed by and it was done... He stood up happily, he was done... Walked up to the bench and dialled her number...

He : hello, look its done...

She : oh... U are such an adamant guy, are u fine...

He : yes... ER..

Thud... The phone fell and got disconnected...

He went unconsious... He had visions of traveling through a deep blackhole and he was struggling to save himself from falling deep inside the blackhole. People gathered around... Some one splashed water as the nurse checked his pulse and tried to get him back to consiousness. A few minutes of struggling through the deep darkhole of maze, he opened his eyes. He popped for his cellphone... 'wheres my phone' i need to call her... She must be worried... Please call her and tell her im fine... prashant sat next to him and said here is ur phone... He asked him to call her and tell he was fine... Prashant called her and told about it... He was restless... Soon after a minute he dialled her number and spoke wid her... Told her he was allright as she scolded him for not listening to her... That small moment made him realise, it was really difficult to live without her... And the difficult time was about to begin!

La La La La ... LAMBA - AH Prawns...

Its been a crazy week with loads of work happening. Hectic But fun. In all this zip-zap-zoom I somehow got some time on friday evening to have dinner with a friend at Chembur. We were wondering where to go, and then landed up at Lamba! Yes a famous food joint, umm yea A Dhaba! in Chembur very well known and known best for its Prawns speciality. 

Lamba serves authentic Punjabi cuisine and a heaven for Non Veggie freaks like me. Lamba serves awesome chiken tikkas, mutton delicacies and loads of amazing stuff. Its known best for its Prawns Speciality! Prawns fry, Prawns Biryani and a few more prawn delicacies is something that will make you go crazy.

We wanted to have a no-so-heavy dinner so we stared off with Prawns Fry, a super mouth watering delicacy which will drive you crazy just with the aroma of the Prawns, you think about it and the aroma just lingers around in your mind. The best part about the prawns and all the food here, specially about the prawns is that the prawns are fresh. Prawns if not served fresh do not have the taste, and can also have a little foul smell. But here at Lamba, I can guarantee you the BEST of prawns, and yes they are average good sized prawns and its fun havin them.




The next dish we ordered was Prawns Biryani, whoa again the exotic aroma and taste blended with tiger prawns leaves you speechless. The Biryani rice flavoured with the prawns masala is a perfect combination and is the most divine delicacy one can relish. The Biryani has big tiger prawns which makes it even more interesting. Did not waste a single minute taking any pic of the biryani... just had it all!

The service is good, they also have a seperate Bar Area where they serve alcohol.

I have been here a couple of times and have always liked the food here. More than the food its the attitude of the people which I liked. We were sitting outside in front of the tandoor area, I could observe the Manager who was packing and getting the orders ready, he was precise and perfect. I saw him rejecting an order since it was not made properly, it was a parcel order and he noticed that the chicken was not cooked well, I saw him taking the serving back to the cook and telling him it was not made well and asked him to make it again. Also while he served the orders, he was making sure everything was perfect. Really liked their attention to detail and this is how they have made a great name for themselves. I would recommend Lamba to all my friends. A place for having amazing food! Priced well the food here is really worth the money you pay! I am already planning my next dinner as I finish writing this post!

My Favourite Food Hangouts

Hello, im back to my desk after an awesome dinner! and yes I am gonna brag about it. Well no im not gonna brag about me having an awesome dinner, but about the place where I got the dinner from! Yes Im talkin about FOOD! after a much awaited break, I got back hunting to my Favourite Food Hangouts. Today I am gonna share one of my Favourite place - Sadichha.

Yes its Bandra with one of its best Landmarks! Sadichha

Sadichha is an authentic Malwani / Konkani food place. And is famous for Seafood specialties as well as chicken sukkha and mutton sukka delicacies. In short its a perfect place for Non-Vegetarians like me :) yea thats a big wide grin!

The food here consists of authentic Malwani food! yes its 100% marathi coastal food! And its fun.

We have been to Sadichha several times and that helps me write about most of the food that I have tasted here. Cos you just cant have it all at one go, they have an awesome variety.

To begin with I would like to tell you about the starters, well starters would not be the right word, cos this term does not exist in Marathi food. Anways, to start of with I would recommend the Prawns Koliwada Fry or Jawla Fry (Yes thats the correct spelling of Jawla). The prawns here are real good with the spicy masala which ignites you to taste more of the food here.

Sadichha serves very good Fish Delicacies, So if you are going to start, id suggest you some Halwa Fry and Surmai Masala. Well if you choose chicken/mutton, then you can opt the Chicken/Mutton Sukkha. The sukkha chicken/mutton is to die for. Shimply masala or Tisrya masala, known commonly as shellfish is a treat out here. They also serve authentic kolhapuri chicken known as kolhapuri kombdi. If you are a crab fan, then Khekda masala is the dish for you. Crabs with authentic coastal preparation is a dish you need to have with both your hands digged in the place to break open the crab and enjoy the crab flesh with the mouth watering masala.

Fish delicacies like Surmai Masala, Pomfret Masala, Stuff Pomfrets with Solkadi is a bliss! I am sure by now you must be all desperate to have some real good fish. ALl these heavenly delicacies can be enjoyed with Bhakri, Chapati and the chicken can also be enjoyed with Kombadi wade. Yes the food out here is to die for, so what are you waiting for? Go try it all out there! Here is the traditional board which had all the items and specials of the day! Enjoy!

The Crossroads Song!

Dark Days, Cold Nights!

school chale hum

June july begins with schools, new text books, notebooks, pens, pencil boxes, uniforms, raincoats... Everything thats related to school. Fun isnt it, goin to school with all your friends wearing new uniforms and carrying new school bags, specially with kids... Kids who are just starting up with their KG classes. For them school is a new world, a world which they have dreamt of...wanting to go to school.wanting to begin a new chapter, the best chapter. But hold on, what about those kids who are not lucky to get admission? Specially if they dont have any references or contacts and not even the capacity to grease the palms of some corrupt politicians and get through with the admissions. Yes, there are people, who have to struggle very hard so they can see their little wonder entering the school of his/her dreams. And here im not talking about any modern school admission. Im talkin about admission in a regular school. I came across such a situation when I saw a friend of mine struggling to help someone get admission for their kid. Now my friend, she isnt any journalist or social worker or any influential person. She is a student of TYBMM. And she was all running for the last two months just to make sure her neighbours kid gets admission in a decent school. The same kid whom she offers tutions free of cost. Yes free of cost without any conditions apply tag, just because his parents cant afford. I proudly congratulate my friend Preeti for having successfully helped the little kid getting in his dream school. Yes I am feeling very proud today when I see her successfull with the admission part. Preeti had to undergo a lot of ups and downs in this entire process. It was the same school she had passed out from and she thought maybe it wont be much of a problem. But it was not an easy affair... The grind had begun. They refused admission for whatever reasons... The running around had started. She tried if thru friends including me, if there were any contacts through where she could get the admission. But all in vain. I didnt have much political or any influential contacts which I could go through, I really felt helpless since there was nothing I could do other than moral support. I saw a girl running around, helping someone to make their child's future... And i was helpless... But preeti was not amongst someone who could give in so easlily. She struggled her way through all these days and finally got a source through another good friend of her who could get the admission done...that friend through his collegue got them through with the admission process. The best part is he didnt charge money or donation...he asked them to get a Life insurance policy to be taken for the kid, which in would be beneficial for the kid. Preeti's efforts helped the kid get admission in one of the decent reputed school. Kudos to preeti! I Congratulate her once again. Babes you have made all of us proud and taught us to be selfless and do our little bit for the needy. Once again... Three Cheers to Preeti! May you always be successfull in all walks of life.

Loneliness !!!

After a long hectic work schedule, I finally got a break and had been to Vaishnodevi after a gap of 2 Years. It was really a wonderful trip and now I'm back, all recharged!

But while I was away this week, my very close friend Chiks, really went thru a very bad time. The worst part is she didnt let me know all this week cos I was away on a vacation n she didnt wana disturb me. When I was back she told me bout it and was completely sad n broken down. It felt really bad when she said she was all alone... She talked bout loneliness and I could really understand that, believe me.

Everyone goes thru loneliness at some point of time in their lives. Its a passing phase maybe, or whatever you say. I was really feelin bad thinking about everything and loneliness, a few lines came to my mind.

Here is Loneliness...just an attempt to tell chiks, that I did really understand what u must have gone thru... Chiks I am sure u wont be lonely ever again... Cos u wud be strong by now !

you take a busy road on a crowded street,

you walk by aside on the street.

You say good bye to your friends goin home,

You wave a bye to the girl waiting for her guy,

And time comes when you are all alone,

busy walkin on the crowded road... All alone...

Lonliness, when no-ones near

Lonliness, when u dont fear

Lonliness, a satisfaction

Lonliness, its a distraction

Lonliness, a walk of life

Lonliness, is no turning back

Lonliness, its destiny

Lonliness, its me and me

Lonliness, when the right goes wrong

Lonliness, its made me strong

Black Day!

Its a Black Day for me...17th of November... This day does not exist for me... I hate this day! Dont Ask me why!

November Rain!

Its November and expecting some chill out here in Mumbai! Well I know mumbai winters are not something that id wait for snowfall and fall leaves or something like that. But yes Mumbai winters are cool! Though not jackets or sweaters or pullovers, but yes people did take out their umbrellas n raincoats cos Mumbai experienced an unexpected rainfall.

Ive been dreaming about this weird rainfall since a long time and could not find the relation... One more incident that i dream of is also related to rain, though it never happened I still could not figure out what all that was about.

A song for the November Rain!!!

Tu Jaane Naa!

"kaise batayein, kyun tujhko chahe
yaara bata na paayein
baatein dilo ki, dekho jo baki
aake tujhe samjhayein
tu jaane na aaaa..tu jaane na
tu jaane na aaaa..tu jaane na"

Watched the movie Ajab Prem Ki Ghajab kahani. The movie seemed to be okay. Rajkumar Santoshi tried his Andaaz Aapna Aapna style humor but I feel he somehow could have done better. He is one of my favourite directors. The music of this movie is noticeable. Pritam has done justice to the lyrics by Irshaad Kamil. The duo does it again after Jab we met.

Well the song in the movie really gets you goosebumps with the music, vocals by atif and offcourse the chorus and the cinematography to add the icing on the cake.

I loved the song. Well not just for the above reasons. But I was touched. It kinda expressed my state of mind. Every word is just what id wished to say. Moreover when I learned that there was a version of the song by "Kailash - Paresh - Naresh" I just couldn't stop myself. Yes they have an unplugged version in the music album. The best part is that all the versions are simply superb!

Coming to my state of mind... yes... something id always say... Tu jaane naa... U just cud never know and cud never understand!!! No intentions here to hurt anyone, cos even someone can say the same to me... Funny isnt it. Funny but true. Its just a state of mind! very complex yet true, which I had to face.

Here's the video and lyrics! Enjoy! And yes Tu Jaane Naa...U cud never understand!!!

kaise batayein, kyun tujhko chahe
yaara bata na paayein
baatein dilo ki, dekho jo baki
aake tujhe samjhayein
tu jaane na aaaa..tu jaane na
tu jaane na aaaa..tu jaane na

hmm milke bhi, hum na mile
tumse na jaane kyun, meelo ke,
hai faasle tumse na jaane kyun
anjaane, hai silsile
tum se na jaane kyun,

sapne hai, palko tale tum se na jaane kyunnnnnn…

kaise batayein, kyun tujhko chahe
yaara bata na paayein
(aaa…aaa…)

baatein dil o ki, dekho jo baki
aake tujhe samjhayein

tu jaane na aaaa..tu jaane na
tu jaane na aaaa..tu jaane na
aaaa aaaaa aaa

nigahon mein dehko, meri jo hai bas gaya aa
woh hai milta tumse hubahoo
ooohhooo..

jaane teri aankhein, kiya baatein ki vajah…
hue tum jo dil ki aarzoo

tum paas ho ke bhi, tum aas ho ke bhi
ehsaas ho ke bhi,

apne nahin aise hai, hum ko gile

tumse na jaane kyun, meelo ke
hai faasle tumse na jaane kyun ooonnn….

tu jaane na aaaa..tu jaane na
tu jaane na aaaa..tu jaane na

ooo jaane na jaane na jaane na
aaaaaaa aaa… tu jaane na

khayalon mein lakhon baatein, yun toh keh gayaaaa..
bola kuch na tere saamne
oooo… hue na begaane bhi

tum hoke aur ke, dekho tum na mere hi bane

aafsos hota hai, dil bhi yeh rota hai
sapne sanjotha hai, pagla hua soche ye

hum the mile tum se na jaane kyun
meelo ke, hai faasle tumse na jaane kyun

anjaane, hai silsile, tum se na jaane kyun, sapne hai

palko tale tum se na jaane kyunnnnnn…
hooooohh…kaise batayein
kyun tujhko chahe, yaara bata na paayein

baatein dil o ki, dekho jo baki
aake tujhe samjhayein

tu jaane na aaaa..tu jaane na
tu jaane na aaaa..tu jaane na
tu jaane naaaa…tu jaane naa
tu jaane naaaa…tu jaane naa

Iktara! - Bringing back memories

Music lately is kinda away from me from the last few days. The last few good songs i kinda loved are from Rock On. Off course there have been many good songs after that, but Yeh Tumhari Meri Baatien from Rock On, really did move me. It got me goosebumps and I could find some connect for a several reasons, people know why. I had set it as a ringtone for someone special, today i dont have it anymore since that person dosent call me anymore, shez gone far far away. Even today when i hear the song on the radio or someones ringtone, i go numb for a minute.

Last saturday morning I woke up from bed n heard "Iktara" from wake up sid. I fell in love wid that song that very moment. I heard it twice, thrice n kept on listenin. Saw the video properly on youtube today. Everytime I heard the song I just thought of only one person. Maybe she hates me now. But I still could not stop getting back to my memories.

Iktara... its a wonderful number. n its got a wonderful meaning too.

Orey manva tu to bavra hai
Tu hi jaane tu kya sochta hai
Tu hi jaane tu kya sochta hai bavre
Kyun dikhaye sapne tu sote jaagte
Jo barse sapne boond boond
Nainon ko moond moond
Jo barse sapne boond boond
Nainon ko moond moond
Kaise main chaloon, dekh na sakoon
Anjaane raastein
Gunjasa hai koi iktara iktara, gunjasa hai koi iktara
Dheeme bole koi iktara iktara, dheeme bole koi iktara
Gunjasa hai koi iktara iktara, gunjasa hai koi iktara