LIfestyle: Johny Runner :-): The Tale of Two Shots and Some Neat Weights ;).....

You are at an Airport, you bump on your school class-mate after almost two and half decades, and your class-mate who is a professor, identifies (mistakenly ;)) you as his student. Or how about your 12 year old kid’s friends, recognizing you as her younger brother. Or even at later point in life, you are at St. Paul's Cathedral London, and you are climbing up the 528 steps easily than a bit younger friend accompanying you. Or quite recently in 2015, training for about 1 month to complete a half marathon (21K) without having any previous long distance running experience.

Incidentally all of these have actually led to a lot of feel good factor about self. 

Looking back and trying to analyze the reasons for achieving this, were the activities, habits and patterns which were very specifically adopted at various junctures in life, and many of those have been consistently followed for last 12+ years, across areas involving food, fitness and overall lifestyle.

I am writing after almost 4 months, and altogether on a different topic (than usual movie thing) but which is very close to my heart and something which I am thoroughly passionate about. And while being said that I am just fitness enthusiastic not a Pro (neither these tips are very scientific), but wanted to share aspects which worked for me and which helped in achieving basic to intermediate level of fitness.

I'll try and keep this short and light for today. Also dividing it in 3 levels, for the benefit of all of you, so that you can gauge the time & efforts required and plan accordingly. Again this is based on the basic exposure I have on this front. We'll talk on the exercise front first, followed by the food / diet.

Capsule:

I'll be referring the levels / efforts in medical terms :-). 1) Capsule, 2) Small Shot (not the 30 ML but the flue-wala shot;)) and the 3) Big Shot. Capsule is quick daily dose of activities that you can start doing Instantaneously . ..like from today.

Small Shot:

One key difference is you do lot more Suryanamaskars with only a tad more additional time than earlier, making this around 40 minutes regime.

Big (Large) Shot:

Almost similar to the Small Shot but you focus more on probably every aspect, and requires @ 50-60 minutes. It could be more Suryanamaskars or even extended breathing and more intense weights 

Capsule	Small Shot	Big Shot
·         Few stretches (3-5 minutes) ·         Few sets of Dips / Squats (3-5 minutes) ·         12 Suryanamaskar (3-5 minutes) ·         Some Asanas (10-12 minutes) ·         Breathing exercises ( 5-7 minutes) Total (25-30 Mins)	·         Few stretches (3-5 minutes) ·         Few sets of Dips / Squats (3-5 minutes) ·         50  Suryanamaskar (13-15 minutes) ·         Some Asanas (10-12 minutes) ·         Breathing exercises ( 5-7 minutes) Total (35-40 Mins)	·         Few stretches (3-5 minutes) ·         Few sets of Dips / Squats (3-5 minutes) ·         50  Suryanamaskar (13-15 minutes) ·         Some Asanas (10-12 minutes) ·         Breathing exercises ( 10 minutes) Total (50 – 60 Mins)
This will need to be topped up by below: ·         Low intensity Cardio (15-20 minutes) OR Very brisk walk (35 - 40 minutes) ·         Some stretches	This can be topped up with below requiring another 45-50 Mins: ·         High intensity Cardio (25 minutes) ·         Weights for muscle toning (preferably free weights dumbbells are perfect, 15 minutes) ·         Stretches (5-10 minutes)	Intent here is to focus more on the building / training muscles requiring 50-60 Mins: ·         High intensity Cardio (15-20 minutes) ·         High intensity weight training (25-30 minutes) ·         Stretches (5-10 minutes)

The important bit which actually will start working for you immediately is Suryanamaskars - Even if you can start with 2 and make it to 12 from day 01 to day 07 (within a week, doubling the number of Suryanamaskars every alternate day) and then keep it consistent for 2 weeks it’ll be an absolutely great start. Below are a few links on how to do Suryanamskars. However I'm planning to devote an entire article on Suryanamaskar sometime soon. It actually warrants a book J. Truly an amazing full-body stretching and cardio exercise at one go, requires space of only 6 FT X 3 FT, and no equipment whatsoever.

http://www.artofliving.org/in-en/yoga/yoga-poses/sun-salutation

The next most important aspect is Food. However consistent and effective one is at exercising, if the food habits are incorrect, the sweat at the gym absolutely doesn’t yield anything. I am not a dietician and most of it I learnt and owe big-time to a book by Rujuta Diwekar called - 'Don’t lose your mind, lose your weight'. I came first read thw book sometime in 2011, and however clichéd it may sound it actually has worked for me. It used to be a stapled accessory on all my domestic travels for a couple years and I used to read in bits, time and again during the travel. 

     http://www.amazon.in/Dont-Lose-Your-Mind-Weight/dp/8184001053

A few tips from the book, and otherwise based on what I’ve been practicing and felt working for me:

• Be Disruptive – Challenge yourself to get in to the groove of health and fitness!  
• I gifted myself a S size T while I was using L (12 years back when I started on the fitness journey)
• After 4 months getting into S size T was unbelievably exciting feeling J: and still is!
• Helped me reduce at least 14-15 KGs over a span of 6 months.
• Otherwise reducing 4 Kgs per month is absolutely healthy.
• Exercise 6 days a week, consistently! You should feel guilty if you skip one.

• Focus on 3 Cs on a very consistent basis (per exercise / daily)
• Clock every activity during your workout
• Count calorie spend at least during exercises (and if possible count the calorie intake as well across entire day)
• Calibrate (monitor and adjust) your weight / effort

• Daily workout should include
• Suryanamaskar and additional high intensity cardio
• Some easy but effective asanas (based on body type, ailments etc.) is must
• Brisk walking for 30 minutes can give lots of joy

• Eat every 3-4 hours (This list is far from complete… need to write separate article)
• At least 5 meals. Early morning snack, breakfast, lunch, snack, light dinner (7 am, 9 am, 12-1 PM, 4 -5 PM, 7.30-8.30 PM)
• Strict NO to fried foods, sweets, carbonated drinks (even Diet 0 L).
• Plan to have just one cheat day / week to binge on high calorie food
• Fruits, soups, greens and a lot of high fiber foods. It’s damn easy!

• Invest in Health:
• I gifted myself 2 sets of dumbbells on the 40^th Birthday J
• Get a fitness band – Definitely is a motivation for non-starters. Some basic but branded are available as low as INR 2K. And worth it!
• Pick up health, lifestyle books, fitness gadgets, new-edge shoes & accessories, Gymwear is sexy and awesome these days. Just go for it. Flaunting it in a perfectly toned body is an amazing experience. Feel that!
• Be calorie conscious – Read the small font information on food items. Skip all those which are high on calories, potassium, sugar etc!

• Lifestyle change
• Morning 5-7 is great time to exercise. 'Rise early' is not an idiom -Practice!
• Take stairs always. Walk wherever possible. Avoid usage of 2 wheelers.
• Not having a cable TV at home is a bliss!
• Make friends in real life, FB, Twitter, Wapp who are fitness freak – Helps!
• Walk, Run, Swim, Trek, Play: Drench yourself in sweat - Daily!

I just tried scribbling a few things worked for me, but this could have been a lot more organized. Also this is not one-size fits all. However this is a humble attempt to share a few bits towards an healthy lifestyle. Benefits are tremendous: for one, you can be called as the Milind Soman of your group J Enjoy!  

Please switch to these shots for a while and feel the change. I am sure, it will be quite rewarding!

Exiciting Times ahead for the Marathi Movies: Part 2 (Q3 2016)

When I wrote similar article Marathi movies on the very first day of 2016, I was damn sure about the exciting times for the Marathi movies, and was doubly sure about the Natsamrat, Friends, PoshterGirl success. But moreover had ravishing vibes about Sairat, after watching the 1.4 minutes teaser and later the promos, to an extent to predict it to be first Marathi movie to enter the 100 Cr club. However didn’t think of actually creating a series and writing more based on the same topic. And here we are in early June to look at what's in store for the Quarter 3 of 2016. 

June:

Youth:

Barring a song,  sought after Neha Mahajan, and probably first Marathi handsome hunk Askhay Waghmare, there may not be much in it. Off course an awesome romantic Pop fusion number 'Je Hote Tula' by Armaan Malik has great Marathi and English lyrics and music to it. Very loving.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wocMnrK4bM8

Barad:

A political thriller and should be well made movie. Should leave a mark from crtics standpoint - Acting, Direction, Dialogues. Suhas Palshikar after long time in good role. Will do decent on Box office.

One Way Ticket:

Very youthful star cast an equally youthful set-up - Shot in Spain, France and Italy. Suspense thriller, has got all the grandeur at par with a Bollywood movie. Looks to be a one time watch.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcAclpQDTqE

Cheater:

First Horror Comedy in Marathi. Vaibhav Tatwawadi on the way to become the next super star of Marathi. He has all the elements looks, physic, acting, dance et all. Should be in top 5 most successful commercial movies of 2016. Again should be a one-time watch.  Shot in Mauritius. Great visuals. Ajay Phansekar's very refined direction. Video Palace is doing a lot of justice in launching this movie, as it actually postponed the release to avoid Sairat blood bath.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8WjsQFFKd9o

1234:

Déjà Vu Rege (2013 Marathi movie). At least looking at the teaser it looks to have lot of resemblance with successful Rege.  Dark Suspense Thriller. Great ensemble cast, Bhushan Pradhan is another emerging good looking actor in Marathi. Should be in top 10 most successful commercial movies of 2016 . I'm tempted to watch this. Milind kawade to get a huge recognition for his direction.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8WjsQFFKd9o

Ganvesh:

Social / Political Drama. Looks to be a decent movie. Another deep performance by Kishore Kadam and the child artist Tanmay Mande. He'll be in race for the best child actor award with the duo from to be released 'Halfticket'. Mukta Barve is playing a Cop, and will be interesting to watch her.

Ekk Albela:

One of the movies I'm waiting eagerly is Bhagwan Dada's biopic. Mangesh Desai apparently has done a stunning job, portraying the actor and period in 1950-60s. Mangesh is lean, and though he has not put on a lot of weight he still compensates that with his acting, dialogue delviery, looks and mimicking Bhagwan dadas steps to the point. He'd get a lot of accolades and so do Shekhar Sartandel for delivering a period drama and biopic with much authenticity.  Vidya Balan's cameo as Geeta Bali is very apt. The recreated song is as charming as the original - feels nice for the respect shown by the director in days of Bajirao Mastani!! This should be in Top 5 Commercially most successful movies of 2016.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJKpvt5_cN4

Hmmm so much in June?? Wow.. Hope some of these are not delayed because of the cascading effects/success of Sairat, Cheater and 1234

July:

Half Ticket:

This is the movie I'm banking on most in 2016 after Sairat. Most awaited for me after Sairat. Samit Kakkad has shown the side of Mumbai which no one had done in Bollywood in last 60-70 years - Its low class, slum ladden, poor side of Mumbai but shot so beautifully and revolving around centralised theme of trains and train tracks. Looks like this will / must have gotten a standing ovation at most of the movie festivals. Hats off to Samit. His direction and story telling to me goes very close to Satyajeet Ray, when his frames comprising of long shots, low angles and touching landscapes, speak a lot more than anything else. Also like the canvas is small but with lots and lots of detailing to it. The other element which may not be as striking as Sairat, but music sounds very soothing and thoughtful - The number launched as promo 'Chal Chal Chal' is really nice, with Sarod and Satar prominently in the background draped in Harshwardhan Waware's silky voice. He is one promising singer going to make it big in Bollywood as well. 

After Sairat (can't help not comparing but referring to Sairat :-)) I'm banking on this movie for another huge commercial success of the year, and I hope Video Palace will do justice to its promotion, branding and marketing to get it's worth. The other aspect which will work in huge favour from commercial standpoint is about Mumbai - Like the rural b/g was the huge success point for Sairat, the urban but unusual, poor yet beautiful locals of Mumbai and the overall set-up / storyline will take this movie to all the metros and tier 2 cities of India to keep the box office rolling. Should be able to comment on the Box Office Prediction sometime soon. Upwards of 50 CRs? Lets see. 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANDvrA0-9Vc

And Jara hatke:

New age Marathi drama with a Bengali twist. Yes Indraneil SenGupta's is a lead actor with Mrinal Kulkarni. Subtle urban higher class family drama of broken marriages and relationships. Ravi Jadhav and Krishika Lulla's product design is super and off course backed by EROS. Prakash Kunte should establish himself as a director and the movie should do just about decent business. The point I want to make is about what I've been mentioning about movie industry becoming a melting pot and fine actors are working across the regions.

Great sign  - I feel a strong step towards transforming to an Indiwood from Bolly, Tolly and Kollywood, and should take more than a decade when you'll get to see a lot of cross pollinated movies like these.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kpri5GGIwI

August:

YZ :

Comedy and should be a great one as looks to be strong on crazy characterization and dialogues.  The title is really bold and Sai Tamhankar, Parna Pethe, Akshay Taksale would be rocking in the movie. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VeBog2WFToY

And stay tuned as I am expecting further releases (yet to be revealed) by big production houses like UTV, Yashraj, Phantom (Anurag Basu), Dharma Productions, Foxstar, Disney, and by others like Ritesh Deshmukh, Shreyas Talpade, Rajnikant, John Abraham, Akshay Kumar, Salman, Amir and Shahrukh khan and a few more. 

CineBlogs_ 'Sairat' the Stunner (When Mani Ratnam meets Vishal Bhardwaj meets Shakespere)

I am writing this under the title of Cineblog as being a viewer, I can't keep myself out of the Sairat's making and watching experience, and thus my review is a bit longish. Right from the first time I've seen the Sairat teaser back in Jan '16 I was mesmerized, and have been trying to find out more and more about Sairat. No, I didn’t watch the earlier 2 works of the Director Nagraj Manjule, namely Pistulya (short film) and Fandry (feature film), but have been always aware of his prowess as a director. Moreover the 2 minute teaser had the score from the romantic song 'Yadd Lagla' and I was captivated by the symphony used, and was wondering if it was actually used from one of the Mozart / Beethoven's work…And then as all the songs were being released, I could get to see good amount of content on the YouTube and on TV channels about the movie, the actors and about Nagraj himself. And all that added to the anxiety and desire to watch this movie named 'Sairat'.

Well I couldn’t made it to first day first show, which I wanted to (not the usual me :-)) and almost missed the first weekend, but somehow could get just one ticket (third row from front (again not the usual me!) and that’s the only one left) for the afternoon show today, at the usual multiplex. All the shows were house-full through-out the day (even the 10 PM shows were having only front rows available) across most of the theatres in Pune.

Now let's talk about the movie….

This has been projected as a romantic musical, and it definitely is! But… It's also a thriller, with strange bits of comedy, politics, khandaan et all. The movie has very characteristic start and ending. I'd rather explain the movie in one line, it's like a glass painting, the side facing you is painted in all the vibrant colors but then still you can get to see the hues of just one color on the other side which makes you….nothing less than restless!

It's a story about Archi (Archana - Rinku Rajguru) and Parashya (Akash Thosar), about their falling in love with each other, about their friends, family and enemies. The first half is the vibrant façade of the painting which moves at a modest pace - building, describing the characters, sprinkles of comedy, blossoming the love between Archie and Parshya, and off course taking us through all the 4 cracker of songs.

The second half is about the unexpected struggle of both Archi and Parshya and then unfolding of the  grey, dark hues which actually moves you deep within.

Rinku Rajguru and Akash Thosar both have been the highlight of the movie - It's the first movie for both with no prior movie background. They have literally lived Archi and Parshya on screen. Rinku is only 15  years (9th grade)  and Akash a few years elder to her in real life. Especially the dominating, brash girl (drives bullet, SUV, Tractor and is a bit reckless) and a more composed boy - these characters themselves are unheard of at least in Marathi movies, and both have enliven those by their immense talent. While Rinku has already received the National award for Best Jury award in her first movie, I suppose Akash has a great potential to become the super hero of Marathi cinema, might do good supporting roles in Hindi as well.

The next amazing thing that can happen to this movie is it's music. It's like re-incarneted Ajay-Atul after Chikni Chameli etc. who have actually helped in making the painting so vibrant in the first half with 3 romantic numbers ('Atach Baya ka' 'Yaad Laglaa' and 'Sairat Zala ji') and 1 would be this year's super-hit at the Dance clubs  ('Zingaat' - But Nothing beats Awaaj Wadhav DJ from Poshter Girl :-)). 'Atach Baya Ka' is more of a Pop number sung by Shreya Ghoshal, 'Yaad Laglaa' has the acclaimed symphony and Ajay's textured rural voice, 'Sairaat Zala ji' is a super-melodious Indian romantic number with some Western fusion and in the super smooth vocals by Chinmayee Shripada (Zehnaseeb from Hasee to Phasee) and 'Zhingaat' is sung by Ajay-Atul is their rocking voice, well this time fusion of Synthesizer, trumpets and Tasha (Drums in rural Maharashtra).  Ajay-Atul's dream and insistence about recording some of these songs at the studios in Los Angeles (can't believe it was just 3 hours affair at the studio !!) have made the songs quite distinct and treat to the years. Will be in peoples memory for long.

Cinematography in many scenes (not every frame though) is again futuristic for the Marathi movie, especially top angle and super slow-mo shots, the way all the songs are shot, Chopper / Drone shot capturing the Sunset in 'Sairat Zaala ji' - In fact this one is a beautiful combination of music and visuals, when the camera is moving towards the water body, the music heightens the mood and once the camera hovers over the lake facing the Sun, the music becomes very soothing, leaving you to traverse to the eternity. Also the scenes at the water bodies and the farms, and the way birds are captured across the length of the movie typically the murmuration (flocks of hundreds / thousands flying in rhythm) is very symbolic. Well barring the last sequence.

But what stands out - None other than the Writer / Director of the movie. The kind of hold Nagraj has on the movie is scintillating. He makes all of us think, believe, laugh and cry the way he wants and when he wants. I was actually so engrossed from the beginning, that I was almost clapping in the very first sequence of a Village level Cricket match being played and the local 'Billy Bowden' umpiring there. And then it actually becomes a roller coaster ride of emotions. His prowess is supreme in showing this 2 faceted glass painting with vibrant and dark shades in the same movie. It made me think quite a few times if I'm watching an anthology movie like 'Dus Kahaniyaan' or 'Bombay Talkies' etc. If there are 10 more Nagraj in India, Indian movies would rule the world within next 10 years, instead of me waiting for it to happen for lifetime. I just hope he'll make at least 1 movie / year than having made 2 movies (and 1 short film) in last 6 odd years.  His story line is reminiscent of the Shakespeare plays (with comic and dark shades) and the story telling somewhat resembles Mani Ratnam for the emotions, sensitivity and Vishal Bhardwaj for the raw appeal of the characters  and the violence.

The epitome of his direction is when the movie starts making you so restless and makes you so anxious that even while you can guess what can happen, somewhere within, you don’t want to 'expect the unexpected'.

he other small but impact-full aspect is costumes - gives a very natural tone to the movie, however like the way Parshya's outfits, typically shirts are designed - That's not expensive / branded stuff, but still good enough to make the statement. Didn't check the credits, but somehow feel Nagraj must have owned the Costume department as well, as it's so true to the habitat and the storyline.

Well while saying that…. A few niggles….And if I'd have been the Executive Producer

• The length of the movie would have been ~2.15 hrs instead of 2.54 hrs now.
• Editing is probably the weakest link and I'd say Nagraj being the Producer must have taken the liberty on the editing table resulting into the only department where the finesse is not seen.
• I would have made character introduction a bit more easier… Also strange to know that being in the same village many of them know each other only when they are in the First year of the college.
• Some characters behave a little weirdly. Like Parshya suddenly becomes suspicious.
• Would have had at least one song in the 2nd half
• Most roles are played by the villagers / non-actors - Few Dialogues are not audible also being the local dialect
• I'd have made Nagraj making the Symbolic use of the birds in the last sequence.
• Both the leads learn / speak the other language so quickly, that it feels a bit weird

Btw I was banking on the commercial success based on the 2 minute teaser back in Jan '16. And would like to congratulate Zee Studios on backing this project. And they will be rewarded in a huge manner - I would like to see it grossing at least ~75 CRs. They have already touched one more state in addition to Maharashtra making sure the bi-lingual benefit for added revenue and they may release it in other South Indian states considering the story-line and story-telling similarities. Also I believe even within Maharashtra a lot of non-Marathi audience will be enticed to watch this owing to powerful music and no good movies during this period at theater (and when MI and RPS not doing so great in IPLs 9th edition ;). And if the overseas marketing / release, which should be good considering  Zee's venture, I'd further hope it to gross somewhere around 90 CRs.

Sairat literally means Stunner (both positively and negatively) -  While the first half is a cracker of a show, the last couple minutes of the movie is actually a deafening silence, watching which I was so stunned and confounded even while driving back home, in quite charmed and haunted state.

A must watch to savor the joy and the 'opposite' just like any Shakespearean masterpiece. 

YO Sunday Brunch - Sam: Jerk Uncle OR Liar Aunt?

Sunday Brunch at 'The Mango Tree' Restaurant - At one of the most affluent Souk Al Bahar mall, Dubai

Vik (Vikram) a young guy with prominent Asian ethnicity, a cool stud, and portrays himself as the next 007.

Vet (Vettri not Vetal :-) is Sri Lankan / Australian origin, at times a bit doubtful and then famous for his dubious gaze. 

Hema / Emma is an Anglo-Indian young girl and probably a bit like Hermione from the Harry Potter series. 

Uncle Sam (Samsher) is of Middle-Eastern origin, but stayed in the US, and spent number of years on ships sailing across seas. Now in Dubai, managing this restaurant. At his age he's definitely credible to impress guys and gals even 30 years younger to him.  

Lucie is of Vietnamese, French and Russian origin girl, super athletic, in mid 30s but blessed by her Eastern Asian origin and looks sooo younger.

Gabriela (Gabby) is tom-boyish and of Argentine, Dutch and Spanish descend.

BTW all are omnipresent, multi-faceted, multi-lingual, come from all walks of life and so-are-so damn authoritative in anything and everything they do / talk about. And by the way all of you are invited for the Brunch, hmmmm, yes on every Sunday.

BTW Vet and Lucie won't be joining today. 

It's early April and mercury has already started soaring in the Global City. Today its Gabby who's first to reach the 'The Mango Tree' and chose the table by the pool to respect the mild breeze. They have decided to meet early just over drinks, as everyone wants to make most of it later with their own afternoon schedules. Off-course that means they will be getting more company of Uncle Samsher at their table as it's still morning and usually it's not much of a rush at the restaurant - thanks to the late Saturday night parties thrown by the rich and famous. Gabby is visiting the 'World Art Dubai' exhibition at the World Trade Center, and is dressed in a light khaki ankle length trousers, a short black polo Tee, and off-course not the heels, but in her comfy Puma sneakers and ruffled curly blonde mop of hairs - well, her usual self :-). She didn't had to wait even for couple minutes as she could see Emma walking over to her table. 

Emma's just opposite to Gabby. She's in the light mustard-white floral knee length dress, bought from the Selfridges, a cool grey butterfly goggles, white big ear-rings, almost touching her shoulders (not exactly ;)), a big white hat, and white colored stilettos with a glass sole to complete her look. She is heading straight to the 'Mercato Mall' after a drink, for some essential shopping for the summer, and which can not wait till her next Europe trip :-).  

Emma: Hey Gabby wuz up? Long time...

Gabby: Hola! 'Dat is Lang' (Long time..in Dutch)! couldn't meet you guys over last couple months as I was visiting the States (USA) and have been assisting the analysis for the office of Ted Cruz who is Republic candidate in the US Presidential elections. I was there during 13 state primaries in Feb and March, and also I am back for the final 6 state primaries in June. It's been lot hectic there and been a bit chaotic after returning, as I'll be here in Dubai just for couple of weeks. 'Como has estado' (how you've been)? 

Emma: Holy Cow ! I am doing great, and that's super cool as I'm following the elections keenly. Tell me more..

Right then, both of them hear the silvery husky 'Merhaban', as Uncle Samsher joins their table. And he had already ordered a Pina Colada (less ice and more cream and black rum) for Gabby, a Peroni pint for Emma and mildly hot Kahwa (off course with the black Ajwa dates) for him. While managing the restaurant, he had restricted himself for an occasional Kahwa and that too with only with a few select guests whenever time permits.     

And he was delighted to join the table at the most appropriate time as he had been deeply following the World politics from a very young age, but shares his expert views only when he / others are not drunk ;) and when he is convinced about the IQ of 'caucus' at the table :-). 

Uncle Samsher: So Gabby are you dreaming about the first Hispanic President of the US? 

Emma: And probably one of the youngest after Eisenhower or JFK? 

Their drinks are served by now and Gabby instantly starts sipping the Pina colada, being excited about the topic.  

Gabby: Well yeah. We Latinos have been so instrumental in the US culture and economy since last century, and definitely we deserve a lot more focus and attention. Close to 20 % of the US population is Latino / Hispanic and Ted Cruz should surely ride on that. Thankfully Marco Rubio, the other Hispanic Republic candidate is almost out of sight now. 

Uncle Samsher: And what are your plans of beating the beast in the House, your own Republican "Trump" card (Donald Trump)?   

Gabby: Well the Nevada and Arizona primaries were definitely a big disappointment for Ted (Cruz) but we have the actual Ace with us, in New Mexico and California, where we (Ted Cruz) will win the votes over Donald Trump. We are sure to secure a lead from those 2 states in June. The Nebraska, Dakotas, Oregon, and Washington are also we are hopeful about. And believe me even within the Republicans the under-current is completely anti-Trump and they are making everything possible to make him a 'Dead Man Walking'

Emma: But do you really need to do that? His jerky behavior has already added to his discredit. And he is also probably running out of money for the subsequent primaries.

By this time Vik has arrived, as he got up late owing to the last few weeks nightly training for the upcoming 'Full Moon Marathon' at 'Wadi Rum' in Jordan on 22 April and thus looking a bit leaner than usual. He is in casual blue 'Jack and Jones' jeans, a white linen shirt and his favorite Versace shades. For a change, he is in suede brown loafers to get that casual weekend look. He has agreed to join Emma for shopping, but he is sure that he will be able to 'decide' (not to join) on that, after guzzling a couple of super-chilled (@ 5 Deg Cel to be precise) Carlsbergs. He has already ordered his drinks even before arriving at the table. 

Vik: (He jumps into the discussion instantaneously with the first sip of the beer) - But guys are you missing on the 'First Women President'? Hillary Clinton is leading by huge margins even within Democrats and far too ahead of the Republicans in terms of votes. Also in the recent years Democrats have positively influenced the World politics, where in Republicans have lead to a lot of Wars. 

Gabby: But then that does not necessarily has to be Hillary Clinton? NO WAY!! She is a liar. In the US the talks are about ' If Hillary was the first-Lady, the actual-woman is Monica ;). 

Emma: No cheap talks please :(

Gabby: Perdon! Come on guys hear me out first - What they mean is Monica Lewinsky could have been a better candidate to be posed as the 'First Woman- President' of the USA. Got it now...? 

Uncle Sam: Well in all probability I feel Bernie Sanders is best positioned to win the elections. He is probably the cleanest and having most rational views at that level. Only flip side - he is already 74 and will be the Oldest to join the 'Office of President' :-) if that happens. 

Vik: No matter whoever wins I can see a subtle mandate on 'Reservations'. If it's Hillary reservations could be for 'Women', if Cruz it would be for 'Hispanics', if Trump it could be for 'Non-Muslims' and if Sanders it could be for 'Muslims' as his idea of Democratic Socialism goes too far luring the Muslims. 

Uncle Sam: Kid, you could be right. But wait, the undercover information I have is, Kingmaker - Prashant Kishor who helped build Narendra Modi the solitary government in India after many many years, has been already frequenting the US and will be shuffling across India and the US till year end, to topple the existing Governments in the US and the 5 states in India :-). 

They wanted to continue the discussion, but by now, it was already getting a bit late for Gabby and Emma for the show and the Shopping, and thus Gabby got her shoelaces tightened, Emma puts back her hat and uncle Sam in reckoning of the fact that more guests have started popping in,  they get up from the chairs and bid adieu to others. Emma throws a dependable glance at Vik, as she always admires his choice of things and he being around makes shopping soooo cool. 

Vik 'being a stud' has already had 2 Clarsbergs by then, and 'thus now being a 'super-stud' knows his 'right to speak?' and to prove that 'he is not intolerent' towards girls! Poor Vik had no choice (usually after a couple drinks), or even better, no 'reservation', but to say Yes to Emma, and starts following her to the 'Mercato Mall'.    

Hasta Luego and Have a Great Weekend!

   

  

YO Sunday Brunch - The monk who sold Ferrari (Without even buying it, and well not quite Ferrari)

Sunday Brunch at 'The Mango Tree' Restaurant - At one of the most affluent Souk Al Bahar mall, Dubai

Vik (Vikram) a young guy with prominent Asian ethnicity, a cool stud, and portrays himself as the next 007.

Vet (Vettri not Vetal :-) is Sri Lankan / Australian origin, at times a bit doubtful and then famous for his dubious gaze. 

Hema / Emma is an Anglo-Indian young girl and probably a bit like Hermione from the Harry Potter series. 

Uncle Sam (Samsher) is of Middle-Eastern origin, but stayed in the US, and spent number of years on ships sailing across seas. Now in Dubai, managing this restaurant. At his age he's definitely credible to impress guys and gals even 30 years younger to him.  

Lucie is of Vietnamese, French and Russian origin girl, super athletic, in mid 30s but blessed by her Eastern Asian origin and looks sooo younger.

Gabriela (Gabby) is tom-boyish and of Argentine, Dutch and Spanish descend.

BTW all are omnipresent, multi-faceted, multi-lingual, come from all walks of life and so-are-so damn authoritative in anything and everything they do / talk about. And by the way all of you are invited for the Brunch, hmmmm, yes on every Sunday.

Vik is coming straight from his work-out at 'The Gym' at The Souk Al Bahar. Looking just perfect in his white 'Armani Exchange' (AX) track-suit. He's got this as a gift from his close friend Rick, who is a model - Rick actually was in this same AX tracks last month, walking on the ramp for one of the Spring / Summer'16 show in Paris. 

Vet had a bit of tiring session at Al Badia Golf course, and then it took him almost 25 minutes on E11, because of the traffic (tourists everywhere, Damn! the Shopping festival)  to drive-down to The Souk, which he usually hits in 15 minutes. 

And Hema is looking stunning even dressed in a casual grey chiffon palazzo, cropped black leather jacket on a light peach short top, and off course black heels (She hates sneakers), as if she is visiting a boutique, road-side eatery at South Kensington, London on a Sunny August noon. BTW she is seemingly happy with the last 2 hours session she had, at the salon 'Posh by Feryal'. Anything Posh in it, and Hema will be sold on that :-). The glow on her face is radiant and accentuated, thanks to the Gold-Herbal facial, and the minor red highlights at the tips of her curled dark mop of hairs, is actually giving a lot of phirangi edge to her subtle Anglo, and more prominent Indian looks. 

Hema / Emma is the first to arrive, followed by Vik and then the delayed Vet. It’s breezy and less hot being January morning. Usual mild khus fragrance in the air, and soft sarod played through a centralized music system of the restaurant. Hema chooses to grab a place at the terrace, and she being hopelessly romantic, is sitting facing the Dubai fountains. Vik facing her, and Vet joins and sits next to Emma (just to avoid giving away those occasional dubious gazes to Hema, which he himself doesn't like, but somehow can't control...hmmmm OCD?). 

Uncle Sam is busy attending some of his other affluent guests. But the familiar Bashir is there to attend the trio, and he already had kept their drinks at the table while seeing them arriving in. It's the signature Mango-saffron lassi for Vik, Fosters (OUAustreliaann for Beer!!) for Vet, and 'Dew and Drops' herbal mock-tail (lemon base, with dash of basil, chia seeds, saffron and honey) for Hema. Last 8 years, right from her teen age, she's probably added just about half a stone (Brit measure and means ~3 Kgs) and still carries that envious teen-age look in her thin frame. Bashir while leaving the table doesn't forget to tell Vik that the Lassi is shaken and not stirred, and receives a 'Shukraan with a super-stud-smile from Vik, just ensuring his hefty tip. Bashir's too smart for his job. Vik while removing his black aviator glasses, begins the conversation...    

Vik: Dudes what's up?

Vet: Not much mate, the oil prices and stock markets are nose-diving, and not too sure when I'd switch to a Porsche Macan V6 Turbo, from my Audi TT Coupe.

Vik: But why Buoy (after-effect of watching ZNMD 08 times)? And what's wrong with your TT?

Emma is still not settled, as she is searching something in her beaded, black and brown patchy, 'Louise Vuitton' handbag. The bag looks small but stocks a caravan-full stuff in it. Well not really! Her bag is damn organised, and it's actually very rare of her; searching for something in the bag. Now she gets the pack of 'Sen Cha' mint, keeps it on the table, which Vik and Vet will be having during next couple of hours more than her. 

Vet: TT is great, but as VW is going through the gas emission row, the next turn could be the Audis. But I love this brand and I hope by the time the emission control agencies would reach Porsches', it would be another 5 years. So just wanted to buy a Macan quickly.

Vik: Dude here's the deal (he is an eternal sales guy as well!). YOU KNOW WHAT? (it's his way of saying 'My Name is Bond… 'Vik' Bond!) Arvind is a friend of mine….

Vet: Wait (that's his favorite expression!) and who is Arvind?

Emma: (Suddenly she feels like getting into the conversation) Arvind the Indian guy at CAFEE (Center for Alternative Fuels, Engines and Emissions) at West Virginia, who exposed VW emissions to the world?

Vik: You can't be wrong girl! So Arvind is a good friend of mine and he told me that CAFEE will be looking at everything from a lower end SEAT, to the top end Bugattis. So Porsches can't be spared. Also Arvind being an Indian, and powered by the US Passport :-), makes him the most lethal combination to do and predict all the techy and future-proof things, which obviously are supposed to rule the world. And according to him JLR is amongst the top 5 global car companies for the next 30 years.

Vet: Waaiiit !!! (doubtful here) and what happens after 30 years? 

Emma: There wont be any cars after 30 years, she says while slowly sipping and enjoying her favorite 'Dew and Drops'. World would be rapidly changing to other means of transport including the self-transporters seen in the sci-fi movies. And why you worry about it, you hardly keep a car for 2 years. But wait (this is a more witty 'wait' of Emma's, contrary to what Vet just expressed) 5 years is still a lot more time, than you get along with one GF :-)

Vik: Guys come to the point… I know Harisingh very well who owns the JLR dealership at Zayed Road. In fact I bumped on to Harisingh in the elevator below, and he is here with his family. So the deal is I'll introduce you to him and he can actually deliver the Range Rover Sport in at least ADR 50 K less than the Porsche. This too is V6, but more spacious than the Macan. And you don’t have to bother about JLR breaching any emission norms. Since Tata's have bought the JLR, they transformed it to an extent that it can not afford to breach any norms (As if it would never meet those - Vik speak with himself  :-). But he is kidding, knowing JLR and Tata's is a different equation, even later being an Indian origin company)

Vik: So Vet... Done deal?

Vet: Hmmmm, Cool mate, but let me check with Lucie (he has a soft corner for Lucie, who had a never-ending Saturday night party and thus not present today)

Uncle Sam while attending the guests at nearby table is having an eye and ear across this part of the restaurant and obviously a lot more for the trio, they being very close friends of his. He chimes in at the right moment here.....

Uncle Sam: Vet, the Porsches' we get here are made in China, where most of the raw steel comes from Africa and is adulterated, while all the JLR we get here are completely UK made including the raw material. Aside me and my friends while getting out of the theater last year after watching Fast & Furious 7, were almost convinced if Paul Walker wasn't driving that car in California, he'd have still be alive delivering more editions of F & F. RIP Paul. Logical, practical and less emotional Uncle Sam is, and quickly switches back to the present, as he gets a feeling that his job is done :-) and moves on to 'enlighten' guests at other tables, but doesn't forget to instruct Bashir to serve one more 'Fosters' for Vet. 

This had an enormous effect changing Vets mind (he was in 2 minds as always) and looking at Vik, he says....  

Vet: Vik let's meet Harisingh to book the car. BTW I love Black Range Rover, but the blue looks awesome as well. Guys which one I should go for?

Vik: Red macha (Vik uses this when he wants to influence guys, especially Vet), while staring at the fresh red streaks of Hema's hairs, and even though he had put on his Aviators just moments back, Hema very well knows the reason why Vik suggested the color Red this time. 

Vet: Yeah...red looks cool and Lucie's favorite. 'Lock kiya jaye'? (That's his affirmation to himself, means the deal is sealed now)   

There goes Hema's accented 'Haan Ji', throwing the usual witty smile to Vik, when Vet is busy calling Lucie telling her about the news, and Vik popping another 'Sen Cha' mint, leaving the table to meet Harising, guessing he must be sitting somewhere near the ground floor pool with his family. Vik walking down the stairs, smiling at himself, for he is not a monk, it's not a Ferrari and he does not intent to gain anything from this. But for he had cracked a deal for his friend - Vet, which otherwise would have taken ages for him to decide.  

'Cheers' murmurs Hema, gently tossing up her drink at Uncle Sam, who is busy giving his '2 cents' at another table, but while also giving a quick stare at the trio's table, smiling as a sage....hmmmm wait......or as a Monk?

Have a great week ahead all :-)