My World...My Perspective...

The Dewarists

2011-11-07T15:42:00.000+05:30

The Dewarists is an amazing show on Star World which features the collaboration of some of the most passionate and talented musicians to create songs that transcends beauty.

Do yourself some good by watching these episodes coz just like the Dewarists believe - Some things are just worth doing :)

2011-11-04T23:44:00.000+05:30

I have my copy now :)

Thanks to flipkart for the amazing service :)

India Vs Pakistan Match

2011-04-01T00:59:00.003+05:30

The experience of watching India Vs Pakistan World Cup semi final match on a big screen with friends all cheering for their team - Priceless :)

After the match, everyone celebrating the success of the team at midnight - Priceless :)

Hoping we have another priceless moment in a day from now..cheers to the Indian cricket team..cheers to the game.

EV and Leadership

2011-04-01T00:57:00.001+05:30

The founder of twitter, Evan Williams quit his job. He is also known as the creator of Blogger.

In this post, he talks about how the founders, in general, get all the credit for any successful company. He credits the success of twitter to all its employees who contributed to the company's success.

Read his entire post here.

Thanks EV for Blogger and twitter, look forward to your next stint and venture.

Transfer your Talktime

2011-04-01T00:03:00.003+05:30

The telecom industry is always competitive and the players in this market always innovate to keep themselves ahead of the rest.

In a new move, Uninor allows you to transfer your talktime to your family/friends. Nice idea, especially in times of urgency and emergency.

Barefoot College and African Women

2011-03-31T23:54:00.003+05:30

Here is a story about how Barefoot College, founded by Bunker Roy is changing the lives of African women. These women are trained to become solar engineers and how to train others about the same.

Reminds me of the road trip that my friends from Pilani did to Tilonia while at college. Damn, I missed it. I'm hoping to make a trip to Barefoot college sometime in the near future.

An MBA Graduate - A Village Sarpanch

2011-03-28T22:27:00.003+05:30

"She quit her senior management position in Bharati-Tele Ventures of Airtel Group to serve her village as a Sarpanch".

Here is the story of Chhavi Rajawat - a story of inspiration and a story of the changing face of Indian youth.

2011-03-25T02:03:00.004+05:30

Today I read a post about a guy in the US who got an admit into MIT but he never got a high school degree.

When he decided to apply to college, he sent the code he wrote to the colleges. While most of them rejected his application because he didn't have a high school degree, MIT looked at his code and said - we like it - we accept you.

I felt pretty happy after reading this. Knowledge, passion and talent wins over scores and degrees.

Startup Chile

2011-03-22T22:48:00.006+05:30

Startup Chile is a great program by the Chilean Government to attract the best talent and entrepreneurs across the world to bootstrap their business in Chile.

India, instead of hurling away talented innovators and entreprenerus from other countries through the tough bureaucratic processes should start similar programs to make our country a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship.

India should have a Dept. of Entrepreneurship headed by a successful entrepreneur (like Nilekani heading the UID project) and backed by a group of innovators, technologists, venture capitalists and others to develop a ecosystem that is favorable for the growth of entrepreneurship in our country.

Hat tip: Actionable Insights into the World of Indian Startups

2011-03-22T22:48:00.005+05:30

Startup Chile is a great program by the Chilean Govermnet to attract the best talent and entrepreneurs across the world to bootstrap their business.

India, instead of hurling away talented innovators and entreprenerus from other countries

through the tough bureaucratic processes should start similar programs to make our country a

hub of innovation and entrepreneurship.

India should have a dept of entreprenuership headed by a successful entreprenuer

(like Nilekani heading the UID project) and backed a group of innovators, technologists, venture capitalists to develop a ecosystem that is favorable for the growth of entrepreneurship in our country.

Fred Wilson

2011-03-22T21:22:00.008+05:30

I am a big fan of Fred Wilson, a New York based Venture Capitalist and the co-founder of Union Square Ventures.

He is well known for his blog where writes on start ups, entrepreneurship, venture capital and others interesting things and for his investments in some innovative Web 2.0 companies.
Personally for me, his posts are always a great source of knowledge.

Today he blogged about two pre-accelerator programs in the US - Startup Weekend and Founder Labs.

I wish we have the similar programs in India (or is there one that I am not aware of?) to promote entrepreneurship in our country.

Hyderabad Twestival 2011

2011-03-02T20:38:00.005+05:30

Hyderabad Twestival 2011 is supporting Aashayein Foundation.
Please be there and support the good cause.

2010-09-21T17:50:00.001+05:30

Bopanna and Qureshi.

To the Game. To Peace. To Brotherhood.

A Disappearing Number

2010-08-24T17:08:00.004+05:30

Last Sunday I've seen the play "A Disappearing Number" by the Complicite company. It is undoubtedly one of the best plays I have seen till date. The play is inspired by the collaboration of two great mathematicians of twentieth century, Srinivasa Ramanujan and G.H. Hardy.

The execution of the play was flawless, brilliant and perfect.

If they are performing at your place, don't miss it.

Kudos to the guys!!

Picture courtesy: wikipedia.com

2010-02-03T21:01:00.002+05:30

Tuk-Tastic
Cheers to Samson!!

Avatar

2009-12-19T19:55:00.004+05:30

The movie takes you to a completely different world. It is one of the best movie experiences I had till date.

A visual marvel and no words are enough to explain the Avatar experience.

Don't miss it!!

Picture courtesy: wikipedia.com

TEDxChennai Exp

2009-12-01T22:48:00.007+05:30

As a believer in the power of ideas and collaborations, I am a big fan of TED talks. They are very inspiring and thought provoking. I had the opportunity to attend an independently organized TED event - TEDxChennai and the experience was simply awesome. Being amongst so many wonderful people who are doing some great work is truly inspiring.

Apart from talking to the amazing speakers, I also had the opportunity to interact with very nice people like the Co-Founder of Rang De, a young musician from Chennai, a budding entrepreneur, few BITSians and many more wonderful people.

Personally for me Romulus, N. Vittal, Kavita Baliga, Dr. Santhosh Babu, Satyabrata Dam, R.Madhavan were the best (in no particular order). While the performance by Anil and Sikkil was beautiful.

You have to be there to feel the energy around. It's a day I will not forget in a long time.

The best part of this event was bringing together speakers and people from diverse backgrounds on to a single stage. A big bow to Kiruba and the organizing team for putting together a brilliant show. These guys certainly set the bar high for other TEDx event organizers.

The next TEDxChennai event is scheduled for 10/10/10. Don't miss it.

Find the list of upcoming TEDx events here.

Get Inspired and Get Going :)

Rainbow

2009-11-07T19:49:00.005+05:30

But this is what my 2 MP mobile camera can capture :)

At 16 Babar Ali is the Head Master of a School

2009-11-07T14:40:00.005+05:30

Here is an incredible story of a 16 year old head master (youngest in the world) Babar Ali, who runs an unofficial school for 800 stydents in Murshidabad, West Bengal. These 800 kids wouldn't have had a chance at education without this great chap. Kudos to him!!

"In the beginning I was just play-acting, teaching my friends," Babar Ali says, "but then I realised these children will never learn to read and write if they don't have proper lessons. It's my duty to educate them, to help our country build a better future."

2009-11-05T22:32:00.004+05:30

Incase you missed it, here is the link to the speech given by Chris Anderson - the curator of TED to the students of Woodstock School where he spent seven years of his life.

Some words from his speech that are so true "... and without even really thinking about it, you learn that those superficial differences of race, nationality, color really don't matter that much. We're all just people. We all laugh, we all cry, we all love, we all bleed."

iMo

2009-09-16T23:29:00.008+05:30

iMo is an Indian startup that was selected for the TechCrunch 50 2009 finals. They developed an iPhone/iPod Touch app which converts the iPhone into a video game controller.It works with existing PC video games giving it a Wii like experience. They are just a team of 2 and they won the best presentation award at TC50. Awesome presentation it is...check it for yourself.

Waiting to see more Indian startups to develop ubercool products/apps/technologies and showcase them at these big platforms.

Haptip: Interactive Marketing Blog

TEDIndia 2009 Fellows

2009-09-16T01:08:00.003+05:30

I am a great fan of TED and their talks are simply brilliant and very inspiring.

The list of 103 TEDIndia 2009 fellows is out. Check out the short profiles of people who are selected. The kind of work they have done/doing is simply amazing. Kudos and Congrats to all of them :)

Siva Cotipalli, a BITS alum and founder of dhanaX is one of the fellows this year :)

Inglourious Basterds

2009-09-16T00:52:00.004+05:30

I can't wait for Tarantino's new flick Inglourious Basterds to release in India. Check out the official trailer here. Amazing it is!!

Picture Courtesy: wikipedia.com

Anything for you, ma'am

2009-09-05T23:57:00.007+05:30

Anything for you, ma'am by Tushar Raheja is cute and simple in its own way. It makes a good light hearted weekend read. Go grab it!!

Picture Courtesy: raheja.org

Magadheera

2009-09-03T23:14:00.005+05:30

To say that the movie is brilliant would be an understatement!!

Picture Courtesy: wikipedia.com

KAMINEY

2009-09-02T23:27:00.003+05:30

Charlie. Guddu. Sweety. Bhope. Tashi. Awesome narration. Fast paced. Drugs. Guns. Guitar. Dhan Te Nan. Pheli Baar. Raat Ke Dhai Baje. Transformation from a star to an actor. That's Kamine y in short for you and there is lot more in store.

Kudos to Vishal Bhardwaj!!

Famjaa Naa??

Picture Courtesy: wikipedia.com

Sunday Morning at Deepam Center

2009-07-06T00:06:00.006+05:30

Today morning I went to Pudiyador center at Vannathurai and I was pretty happy to look at the enthusiasm of the kids.

One of the activities of Deepam include enlightening the kids everyweek about one great leader or statesman to inspire them by explaining about their achievements and ideologies. This week one of the volunteer spoke about Nelson Mandela and the kids were really inspired when they learnt that Mr. Mandela did his law in correspondence and wrote his auto biography during his stay in prison. At the end they were asking questions ranging from apartheid to his life in the jail to what he is doing at present.

When they were told that Mr. Mandela is from South Africa, one of the kid quickly pointed out that Chennai Superkings player Morkel is also from the same country. When they were told that he was born in 1918, one kid quickly did the math and came up with the current age of Mandela. Smart kids I say!!

I was really amazed to see them abreast with current affairs ranging from MJ's death to his second autospy results.

A Sunday morning well spent and happy that I met a couple of guys from my alma mater at the center.

Wimbledon Finals 2009

2009-07-05T23:26:00.006+05:30

Just when I was feeling sad that I wouldn't be able to watch the Wimbledon finals, the idea of watching it in a coffee shop stuck me. These days I'm a frequent visitor to javagreen and everytime I go there I see tennis matches being shown in their TV, atleast during this Wimbledon season.

Thanks to those guys, I've watched one of the greatest matches of all time between Federer and Roddick. I wanted Federer to win and make his place in the history as the undisputed player winning 15 grand slams till date. Federer finished the match with 50 aces and also reclaimed his number 1 position in the ATP rankings. I guess this is the first time Roger didn't cry after winning a tournament. Well, Roddick has given a real tough fight and his serves were just amazing and he is the ace master of this tournament with more than 180 aces.

So, the next time there is an important match, you know where to find me :)

Nandan Nilekani to head Unique ID project

2009-06-26T22:51:00.002+05:30

Nandan Nikelani, the Co-Founder and Vice Chairman of Infosys Technologies has resigned from the Board of Infosys to head the Unique ID project.

The Unique ID project aims to uniquely identify the 1.2 billion population of our country. Considering the magnanimity of the project, Nandan Nilekani is the correct pick to head the project. It is good that India has finally started a project like this while its counterparts like USA have their social security number that was designed long back.

Nandan to me is an iconic hero, he has resigned from the board of the company he has co-founded to head a project which has a far greater reach and advantages to the country with more than a billion population. I wonder how many corporate business men would be ready to do that?

P.S: I have read an article which talks about Nandan Nilekani trouncing or getting a headstart over Narayan Murthy. Its really sad to see articles which compare two great icons. Both of them are great people with great values. Let us celebrate their brillance than comparing them.

Rest in Peace MJ

2009-06-26T22:41:00.004+05:30

I feel a deep grief inside me right from the time I heard the news of his death.
To the greatest moon walker ever. We'll miss you MJ!!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S

2009-06-25T22:54:00.004+05:30

Yuppie, I have started watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S

Btw, yesterday I ask this question to a friend of mine whose b'day is today.

Hey, is anyone getting a surprise cake for you tonight??

Duh!! Whattay question!!

Wondering if its by any chance the F.R.I.E.N.D.S effect :-P. Whatever it is, I am just loving it!!

buzz 140

2009-06-07T11:23:00.003+05:30

There is a twitter conference happening in Chennai on the 21st of June2009. It's organized by The Knowledge Foundation, the same group behind events such as Proto.in, Wikicamp.in and Blogcamp.

Check out this page for more info on the event.

Be there for some interesting discussions and mind exchanges on twitter.

Google Wave and Microsoft Bing

2009-05-29T00:37:00.006+05:30

Today Google gave an early preview of Google Wave, a platform where you can communicate and work together. I found it pretty interesting and guess it will be the next big thing from Google and believe it is going to make waves in the world of web. The Google Wave team plans to continue working on it for a number of months before making a public release.

Also, Microsoft Corp. unveiled Bing, a new decision engine. It will be fully deployed worldwide on June 3. We'll have to wait and see the impact Bing will have on the search business.

The Assassination of Jesse James

2009-05-03T15:48:00.004+05:30

At times I think people can save 150-200 bucks by just googling about the movie before coming, or else they will end up leaving the movie screen after the initial 30-40 mins.

This is what has happened today at the theatre, the screen was fully packed at the start of the movie but as the movie progressed almost 1/4th of the crowd left before the first half and another 1/4th left before the end of second half. I guess they were expecting some kind of a action packed thriller since the title had the word "assassination" in it.

But I personally liked The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford. To me the narration at the last 10-15 mins of the movie is the best part and I also liked the back ground score, the picturisation and the train robbery at the beginning of the film.

It is not one of those movies you would like to watch over the weekend with your family and friends but if you are in one of those moods where in you want to watch a serious drama genre movie, then this movie should certainly top your list.

DO watch it for the amazing narration at the end of the movie.
If not, just watch it for Brad Pitt. I thought he was brilliant in the role of Jesse James.

Hope you'll like it as much as I did.

What a Voice!!

2009-04-17T21:40:00.003+05:30

Britains Got Talent 2009 participant Susan Boyle stunned everyone with her amazing voice, its simply awesome!!

Seriously, one the biggest wake up call ever!

Watch the Video here.

APOGEE 2009

2009-03-26T20:06:00.004+05:30

I bow to the organizing team of APOGEE 2009, BITS Pilani.
Have a look at the list of guest lectures.
I'm very happy and excited to see the way it has grown.
Simply Awesome!!

2009-03-25T22:44:00.008+05:30

Join the millions to Vote Earth for Earth Hour 2009

2009-02-22T09:34:00.004+05:30

DevD is just not about smoke, booze and drugs, its Anurag Kashyap's modern & blunt take on Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's "Devdas".

Abhay Deol was brilliant as Dev and both Paro & Chanda gave good debut performances. The music is also good.

I liked the movie. We need more directors like Anurag Kashyap!!

Towards a Knowledge Society

2009-02-12T20:13:00.007+05:30

"The ability of a nation to use and create knowledge capital determines its capacity to empower and enable its citizens by increasing human capabilities" - NKC

The National Knowledge Commission (NKC) which advises the Prime Minister of India, opens up public participation via contests. The contest has three categories namely Film, Debate and Essay.

Participate and send in your entries to the contest. Your ideas and participation will transform India into a knowledge society.

2009-02-10T23:17:00.005+05:30

Watch Bill Gates as he passionately talks about two of the most important issues that need urgent attention from people across all communities.

I hope to see more and more optimists like Bill Gates coming forward and taking the lead to solve some of the world's most pressing problems.

Kudos to Bill Gates and his foundation!!

2009-02-04T12:28:00.001+05:30

IRAN: A Nation Of Bloggers from ayrakus on Vimeo.

Bookmark Marketing

2009-01-18T11:41:00.005+05:30

Recently I've read this and liked the idea. This time its about bookmark marketing by a college in Chennai about their Techno-Management Festival. Got this bookmark from Odyssey bookstore.
With marketing ideas like these, the college fests will certainly have a greater visibility.

Congratulations, AR Rahman!!

2009-01-12T22:11:00.001+05:30

NEWS Capsule for 2009-01-02

2009-01-02T22:58:00.004+05:30

Celebrating a Century of Cricket

Nokia wants your used Handsets - From PLUGGD.IN

30GB Zunes everywhere went dead yesterday - From End User

2009-01-01T02:06:00.004+05:30

WISHING YOU ALL
A
VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR

NEWS Capsule for 2008-12-30

2008-12-30T20:24:00.002+05:30

Lessons fromTissue Pack Marketing - From DOSHDOSH

Expertise and Passion - From Seth's Blog

Entrepreneuring India - From DesiPundit

Extra Second added to 2008 - From The Economic Times

Jumbo exit

2008-11-03T17:59:00.004+05:30

The little amount of cricket that I've played till date is coz of the inspiration I got after watching him spin the ball.

My childhood cricket hero, you have certainly raised the bar of the game!!
You are a cricketing legend!!

Movie Marathon

2008-10-11T23:32:00.003+05:30

Been watching movies like crazy since yesterday's mid night....my brother's out of town and I've got the entire weekend to do nothing and hence started with a movie marathon. I've watched School of Rock, Ice Princess, Aamir, Rain Man, Ratatouille and Casablanca in the last 24 hours. And the best part is I still have the whole of Sunday.

Casablanca, Rain Man and Aamir are great and you shouldn't miss watching Ratatouille & School of Rock, while Ice Princess is just cute.

Ingrid Bergman is very very beautiful in Casablanca and Dustin Hoffman blows you away with his performance in Rain Man. These two movies are a must watch.

Time to sign off, have a great Sunday!!

2008-09-27T09:25:00.003+05:30

Jamia Millia Islamia decided to offer legal aid to two of its students arrested on terrorism allegations.

"If they are proven terrorists, hang them but unless proved guilty they are presumed to be innocent" said the Vice-Chancellor of Jamia Millia Islamia.

The stand taken by the university is very impressive. All is well if they are proven innocent but if proven as terrorists it would be a huge blow to the entire community of Jamia whose efforts & money go in vain and most importantly its their faith which takes the biggest hit.

2008-09-26T21:02:00.003+05:30

Project 10 to the 100: Absolutely loved this idea and video of Google

May Those Who Help The Most Win

2008-09-24T17:34:00.002+05:30

"Are you sure, you know what you are doing??

No, I don't. But I think, that's the point!!

I'd rather do nothing and be happy, than do something I don't love!!"

from - What Happens in Vegas.

I find myself in a similar situation these days.

NEWS Capsule for 2008-09-06

2008-09-06T21:08:00.003+05:30

Timeline: The beginning and the end of 34 years of N-apartheid - From IBNLive

Came to compete, made selector; Indian boxer confused - From expressindia

SideTaker: Crowdsourcing your private disputes, with hilarious results - From TechCrunch

Living Life

2008-09-02T18:58:00.003+05:30

Its been a long time since I've last posted on my blog. I've been off the blogging action for quite too long for various reasons.

First things first, I've quit my job last month and presently staying in Chennai (thanks to my parents for respecting my decision and having faith in me).

Its been a mixed bag of emotions & feelings over the last one month. I was with my friend when he needed me the most, I was with my brother in one of the most important days of his life, I've seen my parents becoming kids revisiting their childhood memories in our recent trip to our native place. These are some of the moments that make life worth its every second. Memories & feelings that are priceless.

For me being part of these moments is very important. And I'm happy that I'm Living Life!!

Cheers to Life

The Dark Knight

2008-08-01T15:56:00.006+05:30

Finally and finally I get to watch the most talked about movie of recent times "The Dark Knight". Its a brilliant movie coupled with an amazing screenplay and great performance from "The Joker" played by Heath Ledger. The Joker outclasses everyone else in the movie with his sheer presence. Also the Batman is shown more from an human angle than from a super hero angle, something I liked.

I wont be getting into the details or the plot of this wonderful movie but all I would say is if this movie gets an Oscar its should be for Heath Ledger's performance and also for the screenplay given by the Nolan brothers.

Also check out the movie's official website.

The Joker is my man from the entire movie.

After all...Why So Serious?

India and Olympics

2008-08-01T13:10:00.000+05:30

Last week a 57 member team which will represent India at the Beijing Olympics 2008 was announced. From a population of 1 billion only 57 athletes are qualified to take part in the Olympics?? Compare it with China whose contingent number stands at 639.

Two Countries with almost the same population but one failing to create enough sporting leaders.

Where is it going wrong? When can I see India leading in the medals table? Can an encouraging ecosystem for the development of sports in India can ever be created??

Also India is in the list of World's Worst Performing Olympians.

And btw I'm condemning the act of the South Korean TV Channel which filmed & leaked the Olympics opening ceremony dress rehearsal video.

NEWS Capsule for 2008-07-30

2008-07-30T15:56:00.002+05:30

Last place in the Tour de France - From kottke.org

Step towards cleaner cooking in rural areas - From Think Change India

India Developing World's Cheapest ($10) Laptop - From PLUGGD.IN

Randy Pausch

2008-07-26T12:32:00.003+05:30

About him
An Enduring Legacy
The Last Lecture

R.I.P

NEWS Capsule for 2008-07-17

2008-07-17T14:59:00.002+05:30

Who benefits from the brain drain? - From PSD Blog

NEWS Capsule for 2008-07-16

2008-07-16T15:01:00.003+05:30

Nothing was ever really wrong. It just wasn't right. - From kottke.org

Africa's soccer swindle - From FP Passport

Female Afghan athlete runs away from home - From FP Passport

No Mac clones for you! Apple sues Psystar - From VentureBeat

Phone call from China transformed '84 games - From The NewYork Times

Mera Jahaan...

2008-07-14T16:31:00.005+05:30

Picture from our recent trip to Shivasamudram. Absolutely loved the picture. Thanks Venky for the capture!!

More snaps at flickr

NEWS Capsule for 2008-07-14

2008-07-14T14:25:00.003+05:30

Graduation (By Shobhit Chugh) - From So little time, so much...

Pak film Ramchand Pakistani set to create history - From IBNLive

Venezuelan Mendoza crowned Miss Universe - From IBNLive

NEWS Capsule for 2008-07-10

2008-07-10T15:12:00.003+05:30

Teach India

Lively: Google launches Virtual World - From ReadWriteWeb

Bubble Calendar

Rural KPO's, possible??

2008-07-07T14:53:00.008+05:30

Ever since I've heard of Source Pilani, the idea of Rural BPO's has fascinated me a lot. From what I've learnt, the productivity is more in these places, the attrition is less and the operational costs are minimal. Its a wonderful business model and certainly empowers the rural youth.

Now, I've been thinking of the idea of Rural KPO's (Knowledge Process Outsourcing) and was wondering if its really possible to start something like this in rural areas. And if yes, can Rural KPO's really emulate the success and efficiency of Rural BPO's?

I guess starting a Rural KPO is difficult coz of the lack of necessary talent or knowledge workers in those areas, though setting up the remaining infrastructure in place is not a major issue. Another problem can be the kind of work or research that can be taken up in these rural KPO's. I'm still trying to find these answers!!

If any of you guys are excited about this idea & believe that setting up Rural KPO's is very much possible, I would like to here from you. If interested we can collaborate and work on this idea.

You can also ping me on twitter.

NEWS Capsule for 2008-07-07

2008-07-07T14:12:00.003+05:30

Why you? - From *Grin*

Google's subsidized child day care not as good as it used to be? - From VentureBeat

Bloggers write text backwards to bypass web filters in China - From Digital Inspiration

My views on Internet

2008-07-02T16:34:00.000+05:30

I've always believed that Internet is a very very important tool and by each passing day my belief only strengthens. Imagine a world without Internet or connectivity, it would be a disaster. The thing I like the most about the Internet is that I would be able to find out about anything and everything under the sun from those millions of web pages.

The influence of Internet on me has been huge. I've explored a lot and perhaps I should admit that I've learnt much more in the past one year than ever before coz of the constant Internet connectivity. At times I feel that there is more knowledge & learning that can happen over the Internet than at the schools and colleges.

Internet to me is Knowledge. I learn a lot and I share a lot. It has made me more social and added a little more to my existing grey matter.

Now to make this Internet revolution more fruitful and meaningful, it has to spread to the rural areas & villages. There are challenges to overcome and opportunities to be explored. And I believe the future belongs to Internet, connectivity & networking, mobile apps, rural BPO's and the likes.

In the end its all about connecting people & knowledge sharing!!

NEWS Capsule for 2008-07-02

2008-07-02T12:46:00.002+05:30

If a journalist cannot write, then who else will? - From churumuri

A simple solution to inflation - From PSD Blog

From Rs 50 to a Forbes billionaire! - From rediff.com

Social Entrepreneur Chronicles - From Social Entrepreneur

NEWS Capsule for 2008-06-30

2008-06-30T15:43:00.003+05:30

If you have to die, can you please do so in Delhi? - From churumuri

Posterous Beats Tumblr in Simplicity - From TechCrunch

NEWS Capsule for 2008-06-27

2008-06-27T12:20:00.002+05:30

Shutting down a GMAT Cheat Sheet - From Business Week

Simple Guide to an Investment Process - From Abhishaken

Is narco-analysis test only for poor & illiterate - From churumuri

Going On a Business Trip or Family Vacation? Don't Forget Anything - From Digital Inspiration

Tennis Fever & My New Racket

2008-06-25T14:16:00.005+05:30

These days Me and Venky are on to tennis like never before. The last time we played tennis was in our final semester at BITS Pilani and after that we've almost given up on the game. But after a gap of one year the game has revisited us (thanks to Venky's colleague Pavan) and we instantly jumped on and bought our new rackets.

First it was Venky who bought his racket about two weeks back, a Wilson one and it looks absolutely stunning and then its my turn, after a thorough search over the internet I've decided on Wilson Impact tennis racket. The reviews say its a great racket for beginners and recreational adults and I certainly fall into this category & added to this it comes for just $17. Now what else can I ask for? Surely "value for my money". Fortunately Koti was returning from U.S and he bought it along for me. Thanks dude :)

My Wilson Impact Tennis Racket

Already Tennis has taken away one day of my workout schedule & added to this is the ongoing Wimbledon. But whatever it is, I'm loving it and having loads of fun!!

P.S: If you are interested in tennis but a novice, check out tennis warehouse, it has good info on rackets and other tips.

NEWS Capsule for 2008-06-25

2008-06-25T12:31:00.003+05:30

Stunning new terminal at Shenzen Bao'an International Airport - From Inhabitat

Nokia acquires Symbian, Takes on Google's Android - From ReadWriteWeb

The rich get richer - From PSD Blog

The billionaires of Zimbabwe - From FP Passport

Weekend trip to Chennai

2008-06-24T14:32:00.009+05:30

Last weekend I was at Chennai to meet my brother and had a lovely time in the 24 hrs I was there. We watched Ready movie on the night I went there, its a good comedy movie and asusual Bramhanandam rocks. Go to the movie without any expectations and you'll have a gala time!!

On Sunday we had our lunch at "Khaana Ghaana", a multi cuisine restaurant. Well the "Ghaana" in the restaurant's name actually gives you a chance to sing live in the restaurant while a troop plays the background score. Overall a decent eating experience.

From there we went to ecstasy, a deserts specialty place in the Sathyam Cinemas multiplex. For the first time I had Tiramisu, an Italian desert and I should say its awesome. It actually gives you a mixed taste of coffee, cake, cream, ice cream etc etc.,. Unfortunately this desert wont be available in many of those coffee shops or good restaurants. So, the next time you are in a Italian specialty restaurant or a five star hotel, make sure you have this. I bet, you'll love it!!

Tiramisu

In the night we went to Taj Connemara for our dinner and then to the station to board my train. All in all a wonderful trip and in short "Ready, Tiramisu & Taj Connemara".

NEWS Capsule for 2008-06-20

2008-06-20T12:21:00.002+05:30

Children in the mail! - From kottke.org

NEN Start-up Day Zero at IIIT-B - From Professor Sadagopan's Weblog

NEWS Capsule for 2008-06-19

2008-06-19T16:30:00.004+05:30

The Hype Worked: Firefox 3 downloaded 8.3 million times in first 24 Hours - From TechCrunch

China Buys Entire Mountain of Copper - From Climateer Investing

Blame the Olympics for India's missing manhole covers - From FP Passport

China's staggering cement use - From FP Passport

YZF-R15: India's first Sports Bike!!

2008-06-18T13:43:00.008+05:30

The wait is over, India gets its first Sports Bike from Yamaha as YZF-R15 which was recently launched at Chennai.

YZF-R15

R15 derives its design, concept & styling from the legendary Yamaha R1. Coming to the specs, R15 is a 150 cc bike (does it look so??) with front and rear end disc breaks, having 6 gears and gives a mileage of 35 -40 KMPL. Check out the detailed Specs.

With R1 priced at approx 10.5 lakhs, its almost an out of reach deal for many in India and hence R15 which comes at approx 1.04 lakhs (on road) is surely a treat for many bike enthusiasts.

R15 derives DNA from R1

I am sure many guys who are planning to get a Pulsar 220 or an Avenger will now think twice and consider pushing their limits to get their hands on this sports bike.

While Yamaha should give more publicity to this new bike, probably launch an ad campaign similar to Pulsar Mania to grab a bigger market share.

Will Yamaha YZF-R15 have an impact on the sales of other players in India? What do you think?

NEWS Capsule for 2008-06-18

2008-06-18T13:01:00.003+05:30

India PC Market - 20% Growth, Unbranded PCs dominate the market - From PLUGGD.IN

Software Company Ditches AdWords for...Kiva? - From ReadWriteWeb

How petrol price is calculated in India - From Propelling Congeries

Lead India Campaign makes waves at the Cannes !!

2008-06-17T14:19:00.006+05:30

The Lead India Program conceptualized by The Times Of India group has finished long back but their ad campaign continues to make waves not just in India but at an international level.

(The Most Inspiring ad from the Campaign)

It won the Grand Prix Lions at the Cannes advertising festival. Cannes Lions is the equivalent of the Oscars or the Grammy Awards for the advertising fraternity and the campaign was selected for this award from nearly 1,700 entries. This is the first ever Grand Prix Lions to an Indian ad agency or campaign.

In recent times no other ad has struck a chord with almost everyone who has watched it. Kudos to JWT (the ad agency).

NEWS Capsule for 2008-06-17

2008-06-17T14:07:00.002+05:30

Tiger Woods fact file - from espnstar.com

Romanian village re-elects dead mayor - From expressindia

Bill Gates' Legacy: Constructive Monopolism - From George F. Colony's Blog

Fearing smog, Aussie runners to skip Olympics Opening Ceremony - From FP Passport

Superheroes - From Seth's Blog

Orkut MTV Roadies Contest

2008-06-13T14:51:00.005+05:30

MTV Roadies is back but this time as an online game. The first online version of this highly popular reality show is launched. MTV had tied up with Google India to run this contest on orkut.com, a social networking site.

To participate you need to register (join) the Sony Ericsson MTV Roadies Battleground community and download an interactive application present in this page.

Just like the offline version, this game will assign various tasks to the participants and they can submit their performed tasks in various formats likes photos and videos.

Online voting will be used to remove or retain participants.

Considering the popularity of Orkut and MTV Roadies, this online game is surely going to be a big hit among the youth.

Investigate and Win Great prizes!!

2008-06-13T13:25:00.003+05:30

I've tipped this off from Gautam Ghosh's Blog.

Here is your chance to win an Apple 16 GB iPod Touch and an accessory kit worth $ 449.95 from crimcheck.com (a company which does background checks and pre-employment screening).

All you gotta do is guess the celebrity in the mugshot correctly to get your hands on the brand new iPod Touch.

To play visit http://www.crimcheck.com/contest/

Good Luck!!

NEWS Capsule for 2008-06-13

2008-06-13T13:02:00.002+05:30

Yahoo tuns into Google's Arms - From TechCrunch

Google Talk & Yahoo! Messenger Users Can Talk To Each Other Soon - From Digital Inspiration

Hillary Clinton's concession speech -out of race with so much grace - From Professor Sadagopan's Weblog

994 miss IIT chance - disclosure raises questions - From The Telegraph

Firefox 3 update

2008-06-12T12:46:00.005+05:30

I've already mentioned about Firefox aiming to set a Guinness world record for the most software downloaded in 24 hours in this post.

The official date for the launch of Firefox 3 is June 17th, 2008.

Get ready to set the world record!!

Once a BITSIAN, Always a BITSIAN

2008-06-10T14:32:00.004+05:30

The promotional video of BITS Pilani produced by the Publications and Media Relations Unit.

Thank you BITS Pilani, my second home!!

NEWS Capsule for 2008-06-10

2008-06-10T13:26:00.003+05:30

Find the woman in this picture - From Pixadus

Taking the Leap: Don't Just Be A Wannabepreneur - From OnStartups

Download Day - Spread Firefox

2008-06-07T12:49:00.004+05:30

Very soon Firefox is coming up with a newer version of its web browser Firefox 3 (already the beta version is doing the rounds). But whats more interesting is the innovative marketing strategy of these developers, they aim to set a Guinness World Record for the most software downloaded in 24 Hours!!

Pledge to download Firefox 3 on the Download Day. At present 14,028 people have pledged from India. I was 872 (approx.) guy from India to pledge.

I'm spreading the word by placing a button on the right side column of my blog. Now, its your turn to spread the word!!

NEWS Capsule for 2008-06-07

2008-06-07T12:26:00.004+05:30

One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish - From The Official Google Blog

Nandan Nilekani: The 6 things that changed India- From churumuri

Weight discrimination OK'd for Indian air hostesses - From FP Passport

Russian officials said to steal $120 billion a year - From msnbc

NEWS Capsule for 2008-06-06

2008-06-06T12:34:00.003+05:30

Can Silicon Valley Deal Makers Take the Credit for Obama's Success? Or Was it Wall Street? - From Climateer Investing

Bangalore is Global No 2 Tech Spot- From Professor Sadagopan's Weblog

World Environment Day

2008-06-05T15:17:00.004+05:30

Lets reduce our Carbon footprint!
Lets build a greener world for the coming generations!!

Happy World Environment Day :)

NEWS Capsule for 2008-06-05

2008-06-05T15:12:00.002+05:30

Inflation, Zimbabwe Style - From The Big Picture

China Vs India - a battle of the brains - From PSD Blog

Politics and Me

2008-06-04T13:58:00.004+05:30

Never before have I taken such a keen interest in politics, by this I mean not just the politics of the world but also of my country.

But the last few months have been different, I have closely followed up the events shaping up in the race for the U.S Presidential elections. It was John Mc Cain who won the Republican nomination, I should say he did not have tough fight in clinching that nomination.

But thats not the case at the Democratic end, for 15 months Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton have contested against each other to clinch the magic number 2,118 (the number of delegates whose support is required to clinch the nomination). Finally Barack Obama has created history by getting the needed delegate support (he is the first black person to get a nomination for the Presidential Elections). His campaign theme is Change.

Barack is the guy who kept me soo glued to the happenings. I wanted him to win the Democratic nomination and now I want him to win the Presidential elections!!

All is good but today morning I began to wonder, if National Elections come up in India, would I take such a keen interest and follow up?

I thought over and the answer is partially yes, partially because I don't find a good statesman in our country who can have my complete confidence and keep me glued. A few thoughts that emerged in my mind:

I feel that the primaries & Caucasus at U.S are conducted on a much fair basis. You have debates between the candidates, where they question each other on issues like national security, immigration, terrorism, health care & education etc etc.,.

During these debates you actually get an idea of what the contestant is actually capable of doing. Remember that all this is before the election to decide the final nominee.

Where as in India, we can never see this happen. All you can hear are the false and un feasible promises of the politicians.

In U.S even college going students and working professionals take an active role in campaigning for a candidate.

And they do all this for nothing but because they believe in their candidate & his vision for the country.

Coming to India, the masses are offered money, food & cheap liquor and brought to the campaigning rallies by the political parties. (I understand that the root cause for this is poverty and lack of proper education but it has to Change.)

And finally, the day we'll have good statesmen in India, the people (esp. youth) of our country will start taking an active & keen interest in politics.

Barack is someone who inspires soo much. We need more and more Barack Obama's in our country. Someone whom people can identify themselves with, someone they can believe in and someone who can bring about a Change.

May be that spirit is with in us. Its just that we need to recognize it and take the next step. Who knows 20 years from now I might become a politician!!

NEWS Capsule for 2008-06-04

2008-06-04T12:39:00.002+05:30

Barack Obama wins the Democratic Nominee for the U.S Presidential Elections to be held in November, 2008.

Travellers in for rude shock at BIAL - From Sights, sounds and smells from Bangalore

Not so grand - From Seth Godin's Blog

Gurjar agitation cost India Inc Rs 5250 crore - From IBNLive

Barcelona, Chelsea join Bharti's club for football academy - From The Economic Times

Mine, mine! - From death ends fun

From Sew Workers to Successful Entrepreneurs - From Think Change India

Google Search Inspired by Unix Command Shell - From Digital Inspiration

Music Review: Jaane Tu...ya jaane na

2008-06-02T16:47:00.003+05:30

If you are someone who likes A.R. Rehman's music, then I bet that you'll love this album. Few songs are quiet different as compared to his previous compositions. My personal favourite's are "Kabhi Kabhi Aditi" and "Jaane Tu Meri Kya Hai".

My say, go and grab your CD today!!

NEWS Capsule for 2008-05-30

2008-05-30T16:51:00.005+05:30

Gmail Labs? - From Google Operating System

10 trees relocated to BU Campus - From Sights, sounds and smells from Bangalore

The simplest refrigerator - please come to India - From Think Change India

One of the world's last uncontacted tribes - From TED Blog

One Campus a land of Two IIT's - From The Times of India

Google's New Favicon - From Google Blogoscoped

Windows 7

2008-05-29T17:29:00.001+05:30

Multi touch comes to the next version of Windows. Wondering when they'll start shipping it.

1953-05-29

2008-05-29T17:22:00.004+05:30

On the 29th of May 1953, Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay are the first to reach the summit of Mount Everest.

This post is dedicated to these two individuals who have achieved such a great feat in the history of mankind.

Dhoni Vs Yuvraj

2008-05-29T16:39:00.003+05:30

Dhoni and Yuvraj, the two young & dynamic cricketers of the cricket crazy nation have always impressed me and millions of others with their play on the field and at times off the field as well.

I've always asked my much knowledgeable friends one question "Why isn't Yuvraj made the Captain of the One Day Cricket team" and their answer was attitude. Never convinced with their answer, I used to argue with myself that attitude is what is important to handle the pressure and tactics of the opponents.

That was the old story.

Here comes the IPL where Dhoni is the Captain of Chennai Super Kings and Yuvraj the Captain Kings XI Punjab and surprisingly I get the answer for my question.

Below is the reaction of these two players during the presentation ceremony in different matches (in both the cases both Dhoni and Yuvraj are being booed by the spectators), here is what they've got to say about the crowds boo's

Yuvraj: "Let me remind the crowd that few boys from Punjab also play for India"

On the other hand look at Dhoni's reaction
Dhoni: "I know this same crowd will cheer for me when I'm in Indian outfit"

Yuvraj himself has answered my question. I believe that the Captain is not someone who just has loads of attitude but someone who commands respect and cool headed. And in this regard Dhoni is a much much better fit compared to Yuvraj.

P.S: I'm neither a fan of Dhoni nor Yuvraj but someone who loves & enjoys the game.

NEWS Capsule for 2008-05-29

2008-05-29T15:44:00.002+05:30

Mukesh Ambani plans to build his own Airport - From The Economic Times

Social Responsibility in IIMA's curriculum - From Think Change India

Couple puts baby girl online for sale, price tag 10k - From expressindia

Cybertecture Egg for Mumbai - From Inhabitat

NEWS Capsule 2008-05-28

2008-05-28T12:47:00.002+05:30

MacBook Going Solar? - From Inhabitat

Peak Water? - From The Big Picture

Demystifying a Business Plan - From PLUGGD.IN

Ratan Tata among most powerful in UK construction industry - From The Economic Times

Tennis goes the IPL way, serves ace with ITL - From IBNLive

Climate Change's Big Winner - From FP Passport

It finally gets up on its own! - From Acyut: The Humanoid Robot

Citibank - Delhi metro card ad

2008-05-27T14:50:00.004+05:30

The Citibank Delhi metro credit card ad which is shown in the IPL match breaks has struck a chord with me. I love the ad esp the music. If you haven't watched it yet, watch it here:

Now just "Jhoom Jhoom...
Jhoom Jhoom..."

NEWS Capsule for 2008-05-27

2008-05-27T14:26:00.003+05:30

Could Jindal be the Vice President of US? - From HELLOJI

Friendfeed Is Going To Kill Google Reader, Not Twitter - From Loic Le Meur Blog

Vodafone CEO Arun Sarin to step down in July - From IBNLive

Download Multiple Web Videos Into a Single Movie or MP3 - From Digital Inspiration

The Infotech 100 - From BusinessWeek

Passengers fume as crew hunt for missing plane - From IBNLive

17 May, 2008 to 23 May, 2008

2008-05-26T16:38:00.006+05:30

Last week has been one of the best weeks for three main reasons:

I've travelled thrice to Pune in a weeks time and have put a good show at my work. I'm happy and waiting for the results. Also read 3 cities in 24 hrs.

Koti got his U.S VISA issued for 10 years and is flying to the land of opportunities on 27 May, 2008 at 02:00hrs from BIAL. Good Luck dude.

And finally the most important and exciting news is PT found the Man of her life and getting married soon. All of us are soo soo happy for her!!

*Cheers to Life*