1..2..3……A poker face hides all evidence, but the eyes fixated on the dial of the elevator expose the churn occurring within. Arriving at the reception, fingers fidget around restlessly with the pen, slightly irritated that the mundanity of the attendance routine cannot be excused on such occasions. Moving towards the workplace, the charade of normalcy is betrayed only by the urgency of the step moving half a yard quicker than it usually does. Passing through the maze of cubicles, the entire spectrum of office characters are encountered. The office peon, the nosy colleague, the gossip queen, the reclusive genius, the professional leech, the wannabe Casanova, the office crush and the best friend are all met with the customary smile. Something needs to be shared but none of them can know yet. The Bag is planted firmly on the desk, but it’s not time for work. Moving purposefully, the final destination is arrived at: The seat of the person, better known as, the Confidant.
Within the confines of the professional universe, an individual interacts with innumerable others. Most of them pass off as mere acquaintances, while some others register a deeper impression. Some he grows to loathe, while some he calls friends. A handful among them become his close buddies, with whom he shares his frustrations and joys. Only 1 among all of them, however, can claim to be his Confidant. It is a reflection of the trust that the Confidant enjoys that he is made privy to information which he should not know about. If this person was to be a book, that book would probably be buried deep into the ground. His silence is the quality that justifies his position. If this information were to be accessed by a third person, he would cease to be the Confidant, for there can be only one of his kind. His exclusivity is his existence.
It is this kind of exclusivity which makes him irreplaceable. And it is only when an empty seat stares back at the destination that this realization sinks in. The empty seat will be filled soon, but the void created will remain empty. Roving eyes search for a suitable outlet for the secret begging to be shared. None to be found, the secret is discreetly gulped down. Not a word is spoken, for the eager ears are not within hearing range anymore. Backtracking slowly, with a silent prayer wishing for the Confidant’s success in his chosen path, command of the daily routine is assumed.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
An Illusion
In the fertile labyrinths of Human Imagination,
Disguised as a thought, takes birth an illusion.
Pampered by desire and indulged by biased perception,
Ridiculing fact, it flourishes in the company of fiction.
Within its master’s attention span, spreading its parasitic girth,
Feeding on its own presence, it propagates a farcical mirth.
With its mesmeric charm it engulfs every waking thought,
Reality, but a feeble opponent, withers under its onslaught.
Having enslaved its master, an exit it begins to shape,
Unlike its gradual deception, sudden is its escape.
Deserted by its unfaithful friend, searching amidst an endless void,
Stumbling upon a loyal enemy, of all defense the victim is devoid.
Staring into the face of reality, seeking cover under the familiar cloak of illusion,
Unwilling to accept the harshness of deceit, he seeks comfort in ungainly delusion.
Disguised as a thought, takes birth an illusion.
Pampered by desire and indulged by biased perception,
Ridiculing fact, it flourishes in the company of fiction.
Within its master’s attention span, spreading its parasitic girth,
Feeding on its own presence, it propagates a farcical mirth.
With its mesmeric charm it engulfs every waking thought,
Reality, but a feeble opponent, withers under its onslaught.
Having enslaved its master, an exit it begins to shape,
Unlike its gradual deception, sudden is its escape.
Deserted by its unfaithful friend, searching amidst an endless void,
Stumbling upon a loyal enemy, of all defense the victim is devoid.
Staring into the face of reality, seeking cover under the familiar cloak of illusion,
Unwilling to accept the harshness of deceit, he seeks comfort in ungainly delusion.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
The Final Bow
Adorning my feet one last time, towards the field my shoes plow.
Heavier than ever I feel their weight, as I walk out for a Final Bow.
Showering its light, towers the floodlight, bowing its head in reverence,
Lunging beneath, the grass touches my feet before the final severance.
By the thousands they turn up, rapturously expressing their glee,
On this day, they bow to Him, and after him they bow to me.
At times they showered on me, paeans, at others brickbats and sticks,
On their feet are my most ardent supporters, the bitterest of my critics.
There stands my captain, on whose head I once placed his first cap,
That cap is doffed today; soon he shall place one in another’s lap.
I recognize the glacial stare of the one they called my nemesis,
Eyes locked in silent respect, we share our moment of catharsis.
In the embrace of my best friend, I feel on his cheek a solitary tear,
Having spent his years in my company, he knows his day draws near.
Out peeps an expectant understudy, soon he will occupy this stage,
For long he has been my shadow, honing his skill under my tutelage.
Departing from tradition, for once, they do not worship the rising one,
Like kids on the shore, they line up to feel the warmth of the setting sun.
On occasion I have been written off, on occasion I rewrote history,
Not the numbers written in record books, my legacy is my artistry.
Not long ago, a nameless youngster, stepped out from this sacred portal,
Walking through it for last time, he enters the Pantheon of the Immortal.
Dedicated to the unassuming Legends: Rahul Dravid and Paul Scholes.
Heavier than ever I feel their weight, as I walk out for a Final Bow.
Showering its light, towers the floodlight, bowing its head in reverence,
Lunging beneath, the grass touches my feet before the final severance.
By the thousands they turn up, rapturously expressing their glee,
On this day, they bow to Him, and after him they bow to me.
At times they showered on me, paeans, at others brickbats and sticks,
On their feet are my most ardent supporters, the bitterest of my critics.
There stands my captain, on whose head I once placed his first cap,
That cap is doffed today; soon he shall place one in another’s lap.
I recognize the glacial stare of the one they called my nemesis,
Eyes locked in silent respect, we share our moment of catharsis.
In the embrace of my best friend, I feel on his cheek a solitary tear,
Having spent his years in my company, he knows his day draws near.
Out peeps an expectant understudy, soon he will occupy this stage,
For long he has been my shadow, honing his skill under my tutelage.
Departing from tradition, for once, they do not worship the rising one,
Like kids on the shore, they line up to feel the warmth of the setting sun.
On occasion I have been written off, on occasion I rewrote history,
Not the numbers written in record books, my legacy is my artistry.
Not long ago, a nameless youngster, stepped out from this sacred portal,
Walking through it for last time, he enters the Pantheon of the Immortal.
Dedicated to the unassuming Legends: Rahul Dravid and Paul Scholes.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
A Memory
A vision in mind, a dream in my eye and a map in my hand,
Never to return, I set off on a journey to the Promised Land.
A cottage, a hammock, stars strung together in a garland,
And the boisterous sea being calmed by the silent sand.
Bereft of any strain of cacophony and also the resulting din,
A place where serenity abounds, unbothered by any sin.
Peaks, Valleys, en-route, a river teasing its embankment
Mere milestones, I moved on, ignoring their enticement.
Then as the Heavens burst open, trundling off my chosen path,
I entered a hut promising little but shelter from nature’s wrath.
Through the tiny window of the tiny shack, I could finally marvel
At the very peaks, valleys, the magnificence of the humble hovel.
With the rain long gone, in the glistening sunlight I stood divided,
Heart set on abundant tranquil, of the vision the mind reminded.
Armed with Reasons galore, the mind battled with logic sound,
Fighting a losing battle, the sail of my heart’s protest ran aground.
Map firmly in the hand, the flame of the journey was rekindled,
Though with a memory in heart, the vision was a bit muddled.
Now at the Promised land, the stars still formed a pleasant sight,
Yet the sea was but restless and the sand, now, deafeningly quiet.
The vision had become real, but this reality, now, was not the vision,
No match for the calm once felt, the expanse mocked me with derision.
Besotted by the etched image, eyes craved to revisit the sight once seen,
With no option but to close them, I wondered at what could have been.
Never to return, I set off on a journey to the Promised Land.
A cottage, a hammock, stars strung together in a garland,
And the boisterous sea being calmed by the silent sand.
Bereft of any strain of cacophony and also the resulting din,
A place where serenity abounds, unbothered by any sin.
Peaks, Valleys, en-route, a river teasing its embankment
Mere milestones, I moved on, ignoring their enticement.
Then as the Heavens burst open, trundling off my chosen path,
I entered a hut promising little but shelter from nature’s wrath.
Through the tiny window of the tiny shack, I could finally marvel
At the very peaks, valleys, the magnificence of the humble hovel.
With the rain long gone, in the glistening sunlight I stood divided,
Heart set on abundant tranquil, of the vision the mind reminded.
Armed with Reasons galore, the mind battled with logic sound,
Fighting a losing battle, the sail of my heart’s protest ran aground.
Map firmly in the hand, the flame of the journey was rekindled,
Though with a memory in heart, the vision was a bit muddled.
Now at the Promised land, the stars still formed a pleasant sight,
Yet the sea was but restless and the sand, now, deafeningly quiet.
The vision had become real, but this reality, now, was not the vision,
No match for the calm once felt, the expanse mocked me with derision.
Besotted by the etched image, eyes craved to revisit the sight once seen,
With no option but to close them, I wondered at what could have been.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
The Price of Stability
“When a crime is committed, half of the punishment is acquired by the Criminal, a quarter by his ally and a final quarter by the silent observer”, thundered a furious Vidura as accomplished warriors remained mute spectators to Draupadi’s humiliation in Hastinapur’s Royal Court. A similar situation presents itself before the nation today, as layer after layer of the 2G scam is uncovered. A Prime Minister, initially feigning ignorance and later helplessness to the whimsical policy shifting of his own Minister, refuses to remain accountable to the loot of public wealth which has been entrusted to him by the electorate. Whether he is a willing ally or a silent observer is a matter of debate, though his responsibility remains undiminished. The rulers of Kaliyug might object to being held accountable to the Rules of Dwapar Yuga, but a simple question of the current era itself might help in assigning responsibility of the scam. If Kanimozhi is responsible for the transgressions of Kalaignar by virtue of being the actively involved in its affairs, should not the PM, being the functional head of the government, be judged by the same measure?
A conversation with a friend led to an article hailing the merits of the stability provided by the Congress’ ‘Monarchy’ against the inherent instability of the BJP’s internal democracy. Indeed, the First Family provides stability to the Congress as to many other Regional fiefdoms. However, the basic nature of a Monarchy or a Dictatorship is that the unquestioned authority of a single individual provides the organization with unmatched stability. However, it is this stability within the organization which results in unrest and chaos outside it. In an organization with multiple power centers, every action of the person in charge is scrutinized and every mistake is pounced upon. Internal conflict becomes the framework for internal audit and ensures that the Throne remains accountable. The complacency arising out of the absence of such internal checks results in arbitrary policy formation (2G Scam), compromise of neutral offices(CVC fiasco and appointment of Naveen Chawla as CEC) and becomes a breeding ground for corruption and mismanagement.
When UPA-1 assumed power, the Sonia-Manmohan pairing was hailed as the perfect model for governance. While the Congress president would involve herself with all the political concerns of the Head of State, the Prime Minister could concentrate his energies on administrative issues. However, there was one basic flaw in the master plan: separation of accountability and power. The person accountable for the fallout of the State’s policies was not in charge of formulation of those very policies. While this arrangement worked perfectly in favour of Mrs. Gandhi, allowing her to mould governance in a whimsical manner. The Prime Minister remains unbothered by the flak he draws due to such wayward governance as the political fallout of such situations are the least of his concerns. A classic example of this arrangement is the continued hoarding and import of food grain to ensure that the much touted ‘Food Security Act’ sees the light of the day, even as the government continues to grapple with measures to check soaring inflation. The formula for success has turned into a recipe for disaster.
‘Power without responsibility’ seems to be the Mantra for the ‘Crown Prince as well as he embarks on his Mission-2014. The repeated rebuttals, of the heir apparent, to the PM’s frequent offers of a berth in his ministry are indicative of an aversion to responsibility. A ministerial berth would effectively mean creating metrics to assess his performance. At the moment, only his statements can be the subject of the scrutiny of his rivals. However, once he assumes a position of power, every policy decision and its fallout under his purview can be debated. A clean slate works perfectly in his favour, as he can go about blaming the ‘system’- created by his own creators- and ask for votes under the pretext of cleaning up this very system. He can be the incumbent and yet be unaffected by anti-incumbency.
A lot of debate that is conducted these days on the issue of corruption generally ends on the TINA note and laments at a similar malaise affecting the chief opposition party. Some even blame the BJP for not raising the concerns of the public as vociferously as it should have. While the BJP too has some skeletons in its cupboard, most of the criticism is unfair on the principal opposition party. Arun Shourie has been raising the issue of financial impropriety in 2G allocation at multiple forums since 2007. The appointments of the CVC and the CEC were opposed vehemently by the party, and in the CVC case, their stand has been upheld by the Supreme Court. Based on the five years of NDA rule itself, the NDA acquits itself quite comfortably as compared to the seven years of UPA rule. Unfortunately, a section of the elite News fraternity has an allergy to anything ‘Saffron’ and attempts to create a perception suiting their own needs and beliefs.
While one party chooses to focus on Individual based politics, since Individuals are the only ones keeping it afloat, the other prefers to dwell on Issue based politics. In the battle of perceptions it is always easier to create a larger than life persona than it is to drive home a hard fact. Only when the country moves beyond perceptions of Individuals and moves on to judging performance on the basis of fact, can we hope to actually cleanse the system. Until such a time arrives, we can only be amazed at the embezzlement of our money carried out by the very people we appointed to safeguard it.
A conversation with a friend led to an article hailing the merits of the stability provided by the Congress’ ‘Monarchy’ against the inherent instability of the BJP’s internal democracy. Indeed, the First Family provides stability to the Congress as to many other Regional fiefdoms. However, the basic nature of a Monarchy or a Dictatorship is that the unquestioned authority of a single individual provides the organization with unmatched stability. However, it is this stability within the organization which results in unrest and chaos outside it. In an organization with multiple power centers, every action of the person in charge is scrutinized and every mistake is pounced upon. Internal conflict becomes the framework for internal audit and ensures that the Throne remains accountable. The complacency arising out of the absence of such internal checks results in arbitrary policy formation (2G Scam), compromise of neutral offices(CVC fiasco and appointment of Naveen Chawla as CEC) and becomes a breeding ground for corruption and mismanagement.
When UPA-1 assumed power, the Sonia-Manmohan pairing was hailed as the perfect model for governance. While the Congress president would involve herself with all the political concerns of the Head of State, the Prime Minister could concentrate his energies on administrative issues. However, there was one basic flaw in the master plan: separation of accountability and power. The person accountable for the fallout of the State’s policies was not in charge of formulation of those very policies. While this arrangement worked perfectly in favour of Mrs. Gandhi, allowing her to mould governance in a whimsical manner. The Prime Minister remains unbothered by the flak he draws due to such wayward governance as the political fallout of such situations are the least of his concerns. A classic example of this arrangement is the continued hoarding and import of food grain to ensure that the much touted ‘Food Security Act’ sees the light of the day, even as the government continues to grapple with measures to check soaring inflation. The formula for success has turned into a recipe for disaster.
‘Power without responsibility’ seems to be the Mantra for the ‘Crown Prince as well as he embarks on his Mission-2014. The repeated rebuttals, of the heir apparent, to the PM’s frequent offers of a berth in his ministry are indicative of an aversion to responsibility. A ministerial berth would effectively mean creating metrics to assess his performance. At the moment, only his statements can be the subject of the scrutiny of his rivals. However, once he assumes a position of power, every policy decision and its fallout under his purview can be debated. A clean slate works perfectly in his favour, as he can go about blaming the ‘system’- created by his own creators- and ask for votes under the pretext of cleaning up this very system. He can be the incumbent and yet be unaffected by anti-incumbency.
A lot of debate that is conducted these days on the issue of corruption generally ends on the TINA note and laments at a similar malaise affecting the chief opposition party. Some even blame the BJP for not raising the concerns of the public as vociferously as it should have. While the BJP too has some skeletons in its cupboard, most of the criticism is unfair on the principal opposition party. Arun Shourie has been raising the issue of financial impropriety in 2G allocation at multiple forums since 2007. The appointments of the CVC and the CEC were opposed vehemently by the party, and in the CVC case, their stand has been upheld by the Supreme Court. Based on the five years of NDA rule itself, the NDA acquits itself quite comfortably as compared to the seven years of UPA rule. Unfortunately, a section of the elite News fraternity has an allergy to anything ‘Saffron’ and attempts to create a perception suiting their own needs and beliefs.
While one party chooses to focus on Individual based politics, since Individuals are the only ones keeping it afloat, the other prefers to dwell on Issue based politics. In the battle of perceptions it is always easier to create a larger than life persona than it is to drive home a hard fact. Only when the country moves beyond perceptions of Individuals and moves on to judging performance on the basis of fact, can we hope to actually cleanse the system. Until such a time arrives, we can only be amazed at the embezzlement of our money carried out by the very people we appointed to safeguard it.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Second Best in Europe…By quite a distance
They lined up for their third final in four years. They didn’t have the best of domestic campaigns, but they did enough to ‘knock Liverpool off their perch’ and seal their position as the most decorated side in England. Confident in their ability, they sought revenge against a side touted by many as the best ever. By the end of it all, they cut a forlorn figure, as their hopes of a fourth European Title were dashed cruelly and yet so beautifully. "Nobody's given us a hiding like that but they deserve it," admitted Sir Alex, choosing to call a spade a spade as the English Champions were outthought, outplayed, outpassed and outclassed by the “best team he has ever faced’”. The famed Barca midfield quartet were at their irresistible best creating chance after chance and cementing their spot as the best team in all of Europe.
Despite all the unfair criticism, the current crop of players is as good as any other Manchester United side over the years. Despite not having the financial muscle of Chelsea or Manchester City, they wrapped up their 19th League Title with a game to spare. However, the Barcelona juggernaut, they ran into , exposed their frailties like none other. Evra could not cut off the angles feeding the wings and was found wanting. Valencia was expected to run circles around Abidal, but he did little more than turn up. Chicharito was offside most of the game and Giggs and Carrick were outnumbered and outclassed. Vidic and Van Der Sar were monsters in defence, but their resistance finally broke down against the relentless onslaught.
Domestic League glory, a semi-final appearance in the domestic cup and a Final appearance Europe would count as another successful campaign for any club. They are definitely the second best side in all of Europe but they are miles behind the class of Barca. While the result of last night’s game was decided over 90 minutes, the foundation was laid a year ago when the transfer window slammed shut with United failing to make any notable additions to their midfield. If this game were to be played 10 more times, the result would have been the same on all occasions due to the absence of a solid ball winning midfielder in United’s ranks.
While SAF’s eye for a bargain was evident yet again during the transfer of Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez, the deals he missed cost them dearly during the final. Sami Khedira, Mesut Ozil and Rafael Van Der Vaart all changed clubs at dirt cheap rates, with none of them ending up at Old Trafford. The gaping hole left in midfield since the exit of Roy Keane is yet to be filled. With the imminent departure of Scholes and Giggs looming large, Sir Alex has the unenviable task of rebuilding the team at a time when the Catalans are at their peak. It’s a period of transition for the club and the season-ending defeat should serve as a wake-up call.
David De Gea should prove to be an ideal replacement for the retiring Van Der Sar. Ashley Young, should he make the move to Manchester, will benefit hugely under the tutelage of Giggs. The return of Danny Wellback, Federico Macheda and Tom Cleverley should add teeth to the attack. Fabio and Rafael continue to show promise and will occupy the full back positions for years to come. Anderson has shown promise this season, and with enough games he will ably fill the big boots of Paul Scholes. However, it’s the area in the centre of the park which requires urgent attention. With Owen Hargreaves finally being shown the exit door after spending more time troubling the medics than opposition playmakers, the defensive midfielder position is up for grabs. Everton’s Jack Rodwell has been linked with a move to Manchester all through the season, but Sir Alex would know he needs a seasoned player who can boss the midfield even in the presence of Messi and Iniesta.
Sir Alex and Manchester United have probably been written off a number of times in the last couple of decades and every time they have silenced their critics. The exits of Cantona, Beckham, Van Nistelrooy, Keane, Tevez and Ronaldo were all supposed to end their era of dominance, but each time they have managed to prove their supremacy. However, the challenge they face today is tougher than any they have faced. After winning the 19th league title, people wondered what could motivate Sir Alex to continue his association with the Club. Last night’s result provided that answer. The Red Devils are not used to chasing shadows, and Sir Alex would be smarting from the humiliation from the humiliation suffered at Wembley. Barcelona ‘s ‘Invincible’ midfield have made the team to beat, much like the Australian Cricket Team of the 2000’s. They will continue to dominate teams and win multiple trophies. What remains to be seen is whether Manchester United can challenge them at the high table of European Football or whether they will be content in being the best of the rest. The Mauling of Manchester has set the stage for an intriguing few seasons which will see many a memorable battle like the one witnessed at Wembley. SAF would like to end this battle, like all others he has fought, on a winning note before leaving the ‘Special One’ to further his agenda with the Catalans.
Despite all the unfair criticism, the current crop of players is as good as any other Manchester United side over the years. Despite not having the financial muscle of Chelsea or Manchester City, they wrapped up their 19th League Title with a game to spare. However, the Barcelona juggernaut, they ran into , exposed their frailties like none other. Evra could not cut off the angles feeding the wings and was found wanting. Valencia was expected to run circles around Abidal, but he did little more than turn up. Chicharito was offside most of the game and Giggs and Carrick were outnumbered and outclassed. Vidic and Van Der Sar were monsters in defence, but their resistance finally broke down against the relentless onslaught.
Domestic League glory, a semi-final appearance in the domestic cup and a Final appearance Europe would count as another successful campaign for any club. They are definitely the second best side in all of Europe but they are miles behind the class of Barca. While the result of last night’s game was decided over 90 minutes, the foundation was laid a year ago when the transfer window slammed shut with United failing to make any notable additions to their midfield. If this game were to be played 10 more times, the result would have been the same on all occasions due to the absence of a solid ball winning midfielder in United’s ranks.
While SAF’s eye for a bargain was evident yet again during the transfer of Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez, the deals he missed cost them dearly during the final. Sami Khedira, Mesut Ozil and Rafael Van Der Vaart all changed clubs at dirt cheap rates, with none of them ending up at Old Trafford. The gaping hole left in midfield since the exit of Roy Keane is yet to be filled. With the imminent departure of Scholes and Giggs looming large, Sir Alex has the unenviable task of rebuilding the team at a time when the Catalans are at their peak. It’s a period of transition for the club and the season-ending defeat should serve as a wake-up call.
David De Gea should prove to be an ideal replacement for the retiring Van Der Sar. Ashley Young, should he make the move to Manchester, will benefit hugely under the tutelage of Giggs. The return of Danny Wellback, Federico Macheda and Tom Cleverley should add teeth to the attack. Fabio and Rafael continue to show promise and will occupy the full back positions for years to come. Anderson has shown promise this season, and with enough games he will ably fill the big boots of Paul Scholes. However, it’s the area in the centre of the park which requires urgent attention. With Owen Hargreaves finally being shown the exit door after spending more time troubling the medics than opposition playmakers, the defensive midfielder position is up for grabs. Everton’s Jack Rodwell has been linked with a move to Manchester all through the season, but Sir Alex would know he needs a seasoned player who can boss the midfield even in the presence of Messi and Iniesta.
Sir Alex and Manchester United have probably been written off a number of times in the last couple of decades and every time they have silenced their critics. The exits of Cantona, Beckham, Van Nistelrooy, Keane, Tevez and Ronaldo were all supposed to end their era of dominance, but each time they have managed to prove their supremacy. However, the challenge they face today is tougher than any they have faced. After winning the 19th league title, people wondered what could motivate Sir Alex to continue his association with the Club. Last night’s result provided that answer. The Red Devils are not used to chasing shadows, and Sir Alex would be smarting from the humiliation from the humiliation suffered at Wembley. Barcelona ‘s ‘Invincible’ midfield have made the team to beat, much like the Australian Cricket Team of the 2000’s. They will continue to dominate teams and win multiple trophies. What remains to be seen is whether Manchester United can challenge them at the high table of European Football or whether they will be content in being the best of the rest. The Mauling of Manchester has set the stage for an intriguing few seasons which will see many a memorable battle like the one witnessed at Wembley. SAF would like to end this battle, like all others he has fought, on a winning note before leaving the ‘Special One’ to further his agenda with the Catalans.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
The Mercenarization of Cricket
“My heart and soul is with KKR, I am not a Delhi boy anymore.", declared Gautam Gambhir right after he led KKR to a 17 run victory over Delhi Daredevils at the Kotla. 2.4 Million USD was all that was required to affect this change of heart and soul. The Delhi boy was not the only one to experience this sudden change. Rohit Sharma and Andrew Symonds combined to bury Hyderabadi hopes at the very same ground they had called ‘home’ for the last three seasons. Yuvraj Singh led the charge as his Warriors routed his erstwhile Kings. And who can forget Chris Gayle’s mauling of the Knight Riders (on a side note I have never understood how someone can ride a knight), breaking the very same Bengali hearts which had been used to cheering each of his massive slogs.
It all began during that glittering auction in January when cricketers were ‘bought’ and ‘sold’ to the highest bidder, with Team ‘Owners’ and their coterie deciding which players to retain and which ones to let go. The last time humans were traded in such a manner, they were called slaves. While fans were still busy figuring out whether to mourn the ouster of their stars or welcome the new ones, the players were too busy raking in the moolah to complain about the utter disregard shown for their opinion, and therein lies the failure of the IPL. While it would be preposterous to compare the handsomely paid players to slaves, the readiness with which they have switched teams is strikingly reminiscent of Medieval Mercenaries who bore allegiance to none other than currency.
The vision behind the IPL was to create a League akin to the English Premier League which is the pinnacle of English Football. The naming of the tournament itself is farcical. While the EPL itself sits on top of a robust hierarchy of lower division leagues, hence earning the moniker of the ‘Premier League’ of the country, the IPL is a one league system making it the ‘Premier’ as well as the lowest T20 league in the country. The EPL, as well as other Leagues all across Europe, indulge in player transfers with each club being required to enter into separate negotiations with the player after agreeing a transfer fee with the parent club. The system ensures that no club can keep or sell a player against his own will as seen by numerous club-player confrontations over the years. Even the fans can play an influential role in persuading a player to stay as witnessed during the Rooney transfer saga. So while there will always be players lured by money and silverware, the crux of every team is retained across seasons allowing the fans to develop a special bond with the players and creating legends in the process.
Teams evolve their own styles of play based on their pool of players and playing surfaces at home. Constant chopping and changing in the name of auction, makes for a wonderful televised event, but the framework of the team is altered beyond recognition. It is hard enough for fans to root for unknown local players, but it’s even more difficult to do the same for a new set of players every couple of years. If the IPL is to replicate the success of the EPL, the powers that be have to realize the importance of team stability. After all, it’s the fans and the players that make a club, not the owners.
It all began during that glittering auction in January when cricketers were ‘bought’ and ‘sold’ to the highest bidder, with Team ‘Owners’ and their coterie deciding which players to retain and which ones to let go. The last time humans were traded in such a manner, they were called slaves. While fans were still busy figuring out whether to mourn the ouster of their stars or welcome the new ones, the players were too busy raking in the moolah to complain about the utter disregard shown for their opinion, and therein lies the failure of the IPL. While it would be preposterous to compare the handsomely paid players to slaves, the readiness with which they have switched teams is strikingly reminiscent of Medieval Mercenaries who bore allegiance to none other than currency.
The vision behind the IPL was to create a League akin to the English Premier League which is the pinnacle of English Football. The naming of the tournament itself is farcical. While the EPL itself sits on top of a robust hierarchy of lower division leagues, hence earning the moniker of the ‘Premier League’ of the country, the IPL is a one league system making it the ‘Premier’ as well as the lowest T20 league in the country. The EPL, as well as other Leagues all across Europe, indulge in player transfers with each club being required to enter into separate negotiations with the player after agreeing a transfer fee with the parent club. The system ensures that no club can keep or sell a player against his own will as seen by numerous club-player confrontations over the years. Even the fans can play an influential role in persuading a player to stay as witnessed during the Rooney transfer saga. So while there will always be players lured by money and silverware, the crux of every team is retained across seasons allowing the fans to develop a special bond with the players and creating legends in the process.
Teams evolve their own styles of play based on their pool of players and playing surfaces at home. Constant chopping and changing in the name of auction, makes for a wonderful televised event, but the framework of the team is altered beyond recognition. It is hard enough for fans to root for unknown local players, but it’s even more difficult to do the same for a new set of players every couple of years. If the IPL is to replicate the success of the EPL, the powers that be have to realize the importance of team stability. After all, it’s the fans and the players that make a club, not the owners.
Monday, January 24, 2011
A Piece of Cloth!!!
On the 26th of January, 2011 ordinary citizens of this nation will mark the Indian Constitution's coming into force by hoisting the tricolor across the country. But it is one such planned hoisting, in the heart of the northern most state of the country, which promises to become a flashpoint as the BJP’s Youth Wing(BJYM) marches towards Lal Chowk and the establishment puts all its might behind preventing it. While the CM of the State has gone on record calling the flag hoisting as ‘divisive’ and has sealed the state’s border with adjoining Punjab, thus restricting movement of citizens within their own country, the PM has also echoed the same sentiments. Some prominent journalists, meanwhile, choose to question the need to ‘stir the pot’ at this point in time when Kashmir was ‘limping back to normalcy’ even asking why no such ‘Ekta Yatra’ was held in the last 20 years and some even comparing it with the patriotism of soldiers in Siachen in order to prove its lack of importance. What they chose to completely sidestep was the determination of the government to deny the citizens of the country their constitutionally guaranteed right to hoist the tricolor.
The simple answer to the people questioning the motives behind the choice of venue and timing of the event is that there need not be a reason to hoist the national flag. Any citizen can do it, anywhere he wishes to do it, anytime he wishes to do it. However, if they really need a reason then they should just go back in time to September, 2010 when this incident occurred. As is the case with any ‘sensitive’ issue, this event received minimal coverage in the media as Separatists in the valley unfurled the Pakistani flag at the same Lal Chowk while the state government, lacking the power or rather the will to stop them from doing so, became silent bystanders. Surely, the soldier standing guard in Siachen does not do so to witness this sight. The politics of appeasement which has led the valley into a spiral of unrest, ensured that the same government would take no action against these separatists but it would employ all the machinery at the disposal to prevent the hoisting of the tricolor to avoid antagonizing these very separatists.
Some journalists have called this event as a return to ‘nationalistic yatra politics’ for the BJP. They claim that the BJP is not the standard for patriotism and that a person does not become any less nationalistic by hoisting a flag. They are right on both counts. But doesn’t a person/organization become less nationalistic if it tries to prevent the flag being hoisted on Indian soil? The issue here is about fundamental right of the people. What is different about this yatra than all the BJP’s previous adventures, is the absence of Hindutva as a rallying point. It has no reference to any temple or any community. The only intention is to restore national pride at the same place where, not very long ago, a separatist mob openly mocked the law of the land. If somebody’s sentiments are hurt by the hoisting of the tricolor, does that individual even deserve to live in this country?
As the establishment and the media grapples with its inability to paint this event with a communal hue, it has tried to create an impression that the law and order of the state will be disturbed if the hoisting does indeed take place. As mentioned earlier, the flag hoisting is being dubbed as ‘stirring the pot’ in a state ‘limping back to NORMALCY’. This is the same state which has forced thousands of its own people to become refugees for the last 20 years only because of their religion. This is the same state where the flag of a hostile neighbor was unfurled in an act of open defiance not too long ago. This is the same state where citizens are not allowed to hoist their own national flag. And this situation is normal? Is the absence of violence the only indicator of normalcy? Doesn’t the denial of basic human rights strike these ‘intellectuals’ as being abnormal? Is this state of apparent normalcy a good enough reason for the government to behave in such a spineless appeasing manner? Reminds me again of the famous Joker dialogue, “When everything goes according to plan, nobody panics, even if the plan is horrifying.” In this case, the plan being that the people of Kashmir let the stones remain on the ground, even if it requires subverting the constitution to suit their whims and fancies.
The simple answer to the people questioning the motives behind the choice of venue and timing of the event is that there need not be a reason to hoist the national flag. Any citizen can do it, anywhere he wishes to do it, anytime he wishes to do it. However, if they really need a reason then they should just go back in time to September, 2010 when this incident occurred. As is the case with any ‘sensitive’ issue, this event received minimal coverage in the media as Separatists in the valley unfurled the Pakistani flag at the same Lal Chowk while the state government, lacking the power or rather the will to stop them from doing so, became silent bystanders. Surely, the soldier standing guard in Siachen does not do so to witness this sight. The politics of appeasement which has led the valley into a spiral of unrest, ensured that the same government would take no action against these separatists but it would employ all the machinery at the disposal to prevent the hoisting of the tricolor to avoid antagonizing these very separatists.
Some journalists have called this event as a return to ‘nationalistic yatra politics’ for the BJP. They claim that the BJP is not the standard for patriotism and that a person does not become any less nationalistic by hoisting a flag. They are right on both counts. But doesn’t a person/organization become less nationalistic if it tries to prevent the flag being hoisted on Indian soil? The issue here is about fundamental right of the people. What is different about this yatra than all the BJP’s previous adventures, is the absence of Hindutva as a rallying point. It has no reference to any temple or any community. The only intention is to restore national pride at the same place where, not very long ago, a separatist mob openly mocked the law of the land. If somebody’s sentiments are hurt by the hoisting of the tricolor, does that individual even deserve to live in this country?
As the establishment and the media grapples with its inability to paint this event with a communal hue, it has tried to create an impression that the law and order of the state will be disturbed if the hoisting does indeed take place. As mentioned earlier, the flag hoisting is being dubbed as ‘stirring the pot’ in a state ‘limping back to NORMALCY’. This is the same state which has forced thousands of its own people to become refugees for the last 20 years only because of their religion. This is the same state where the flag of a hostile neighbor was unfurled in an act of open defiance not too long ago. This is the same state where citizens are not allowed to hoist their own national flag. And this situation is normal? Is the absence of violence the only indicator of normalcy? Doesn’t the denial of basic human rights strike these ‘intellectuals’ as being abnormal? Is this state of apparent normalcy a good enough reason for the government to behave in such a spineless appeasing manner? Reminds me again of the famous Joker dialogue, “When everything goes according to plan, nobody panics, even if the plan is horrifying.” In this case, the plan being that the people of Kashmir let the stones remain on the ground, even if it requires subverting the constitution to suit their whims and fancies.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Happy New Year!!!
Another Day, another Year, another decade passes away. It was quite an eventful year marked by a plethora of unfortunate events – Corruption, Inflation, Chelsea winning the EPL – this year had it all. Even the Fourth Estate ended the year with mud on its face. However, despite all the negatives the year ended positively in most areas. A positive vote for governance from the caste conundrum that is Bihar, was reassuring to say the least. The Judiciary (and the CAG) provided the much needed scrutiny that the media failed to provide while the opposition surprised us by showing that it still has the bite needed to provide a stiff challenge to the Grand Old Party of Indian Politics. Finally, the year ended with India reigning supreme on the Test Rankings and Manchester United lording over the EPL. The Sporting world enters 2011 in refreshingly fine shape.
If I have to pick one person or object or incident etc. to represent 2010, it has to be Twitter. The advent of Cable Television marked the beginning of the decline for the newspaper. The speed of the visual medium was the USP which allowed it to defeat the mighty pen. Incisive, fact based journalism with a 24 hour lag was no match for Know-It-All anchors hysterically debating the fallout of events as they happened across the globe. Well, 2010 was all about the return (or atleast the beginning of it) of the written word. Twitter had taken the USP of News Channels and turned it on them. It allowed users to pursue whichever topic interested them, from whichever source they wanted, from whichever place suited them. So while the Media Barons blanked out ‘uncomfortable stories’ like Radiagate, there were quite a few uncomfortable questions raised by the Twitizens for which there were no answers. Long Live the age of the Internet.
Another remarkable incident this year was the coincidence that took place on 19th December, 2010 (as pointed out by a friend). Two legends who have made a habit out of creating history, did just that on the very same day. While Sachin Tendulkar chose the fateful day to become the only batsman in test history to score 50 Test centuries, Sir Alex Ferguson eclipsed Sir Matt Busby to become the longest serving manager at Old Trafford. These two larger than life individuals, who have come to represent perfection in their chosen sport, who reached their own personal milestones this year will be looking towards 2011 with an eye on achieving things which will bring a sense of completeness to their careers. While the Master Blaster will seek to add the World Cup to his otherwise exhaustive list of trophies, the Scottish Genius will seek to bring a 19th League Title to Old Trafford cementing Manchester United’s claim as the most successful club in English Football. As was the case with Sir Don, sport can be a very cruel master. But surely in the case of these two legends, it will choose to make an exception.
Thus, with 2010 ending on a hopeful note, the first day of the fresh year began with a fresh frame of mind. However , ‘The Masthead Of India’ sure knows how to puncture my mood as I found Chetan Bhagat and his stupid smirk staring back at me as soon as I opened their Editorial. I guess my hate for the newspaper will continue this year too (though they made up for it with a wonderful piece in the Sunday Times by Gurcharan Das). Also, on the last day of the year I decided to make up a resolution, “ I will not procrastinate in the new year as much as I did in the last one”. But then again, I thought I will give this year a miss and keep this resolution for the following year. ;)
Finally, by now I believe all you guys would have gotten over the hangover of late night parties. Hence, leaving you all with a nice article to read and ponder over here. Happy New Year, Folks!!!
If I have to pick one person or object or incident etc. to represent 2010, it has to be Twitter. The advent of Cable Television marked the beginning of the decline for the newspaper. The speed of the visual medium was the USP which allowed it to defeat the mighty pen. Incisive, fact based journalism with a 24 hour lag was no match for Know-It-All anchors hysterically debating the fallout of events as they happened across the globe. Well, 2010 was all about the return (or atleast the beginning of it) of the written word. Twitter had taken the USP of News Channels and turned it on them. It allowed users to pursue whichever topic interested them, from whichever source they wanted, from whichever place suited them. So while the Media Barons blanked out ‘uncomfortable stories’ like Radiagate, there were quite a few uncomfortable questions raised by the Twitizens for which there were no answers. Long Live the age of the Internet.
Another remarkable incident this year was the coincidence that took place on 19th December, 2010 (as pointed out by a friend). Two legends who have made a habit out of creating history, did just that on the very same day. While Sachin Tendulkar chose the fateful day to become the only batsman in test history to score 50 Test centuries, Sir Alex Ferguson eclipsed Sir Matt Busby to become the longest serving manager at Old Trafford. These two larger than life individuals, who have come to represent perfection in their chosen sport, who reached their own personal milestones this year will be looking towards 2011 with an eye on achieving things which will bring a sense of completeness to their careers. While the Master Blaster will seek to add the World Cup to his otherwise exhaustive list of trophies, the Scottish Genius will seek to bring a 19th League Title to Old Trafford cementing Manchester United’s claim as the most successful club in English Football. As was the case with Sir Don, sport can be a very cruel master. But surely in the case of these two legends, it will choose to make an exception.
Thus, with 2010 ending on a hopeful note, the first day of the fresh year began with a fresh frame of mind. However , ‘The Masthead Of India’ sure knows how to puncture my mood as I found Chetan Bhagat and his stupid smirk staring back at me as soon as I opened their Editorial. I guess my hate for the newspaper will continue this year too (though they made up for it with a wonderful piece in the Sunday Times by Gurcharan Das). Also, on the last day of the year I decided to make up a resolution, “ I will not procrastinate in the new year as much as I did in the last one”. But then again, I thought I will give this year a miss and keep this resolution for the following year. ;)
Finally, by now I believe all you guys would have gotten over the hangover of late night parties. Hence, leaving you all with a nice article to read and ponder over here. Happy New Year, Folks!!!
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