Thursday, July 24, 2008

Singh is King!

This is really the new era. With the Left out, we're in a phase of growth, and privileged to see India go from the thirld world to super power! And Dr Manmohan Singh (MMS) couldnt have prepared a better and more heart wrenching, sincere repertoire to BJP and that insincere Advani, who puts us all to shame. MMS manner was touching and humble as always, and the references to Rajiv Gandhi's vision went beyond talking about Sonia Gandhi's husband, and more for a leader who gave a free reign to a visionary economist like MMS. I covered Rajiv Gandhi's asthikalash (immersion of ashes in Allahabad) as a journalist in 1991, and I remember the strength of sorrow of the people from Delhi to Allahabad. He may have been immature in politics and done many wrong things, but he did push India to walk on it's own two feet by giving her MMS.

I am currently in the US on work, and the interest India has generated Vs what it was even 10 years ago, is so totally different. There is a respect that stems from a proof of concept, of appreciating that when India says it will do something, it gets it done. Despite the lack of infrastructure, despite the lack of support from many quarters. The buzz clearly is... India is becoming successful, despite all the things going against it. It's almost like our minds are pulling us towards success, and that mental strength will win the physicality of bad roads, no electricity and poverty. We shall overcome.

It was a song we learnt in school. And it holds true. We have overcome. Thank you MMS.

Monday, March 24, 2008

Goa down the drain


Goa makes me very sad. Three weekends ago, my daughter and I went there, and I was so let down. We have been contemplating buying a lil home there, like a million other people, but re-visiting Goa after 5 years broke my heart. Esp North Goa. The beaches are dirty, crowded, and the people who visit Goa are no longer holiday makers. At least their perspective of a holiday isn't the same as ours. Anyone looking for cheap fun basically lands up there.

We went to South Goa to check out some properties, and the nice ones have a really nice price too. Plus it's secluded, and we've all read about the problems of being alone on a beach in Goa.

So while we enjoyed our stay at this really happy and fresh property called the Lemon Tree at Candolim, and enjoyed our dinners at Republic of Noodle (in the hotel), Shiros (2 km off, I love that place and the peace it brings in form of the fresh breeze and the waves just below where we sat), Cavala (Baga beach, very Old Goa) and Riviera (forgot exact location, but it's beautifully done up, though food is average), the same nagging thought kept going through my mind -- can we really have a lil home here?


The answer my friend, is a sad no. I wish something would help us change our minds though.

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

Tuesday, November 6, 2007

The Exempt Collection

Where would life take us if we were exempt from duties and obligations? Wouldn’t those be our most enjoyable moments? Or would they be our most fearful ones?

The Exempt, my exhibition of paintings, showcases the moods of those exempt from obligations, for just a few moments. That privileged solitude then, brings a sense of exalted freedom in some, a furtive moment of insecurity in others, and a thankfulness towards the almighty in a few.

Being held at The Next Shop, N-Block Market, Greater Kailash I, The Exempt will be on from Dec 5 – 10, 2007. A fusion of colors in acrylics on canvas, The Exempt is my third exhibition. Last year, my exhibition at The Next Shop, In Black & White depicted women in the purity of these two colors, and received a grand response. But... I manage only one exhibition a year since corporate life, travel and family allow me only so much. However, during the moments I paint, I feel “exempt” from the world, a feeling I personally enjoy and look forward to. The lack of duty, obligation or liabilities is a wonderful feeling. You could pray, dance like no one’s looking, or just be.

You can reach me on rchhachhi@gmail.com for feedback or buying options.