My Realm

Blending Away

2011-11-16T22:06:00.009+05:30

Since I was a kid, there was something about art that always fascinated me, was good at drawing/sketching craft etc. Later on I loved computer games at my aunt's house and always fancied me being a developer for one of those games. Time zipped by and in college days was always in love with Computer graphics and loved the 3D aspect of things. As fate had it I ended up working on Financial/Trading products and eventually on database related concepts.
The Graphics aspect never quit, I still continued playing games and kept sketching did some graphics programing and also got pretty comfortable with Adobe Photoshop, and then I stumbled upon Blender . I never really was a big fan of modeling 3 dimensional objects using tools since I believed anything could be created from code. But a few trials did convince me of the power this simple open source platform packed. As days went by I was regular at learning the various concepts of 3d art development and 3d in general and getting accustomed to the terms from the graphics industry. Having a PS3 at home and being an avid gamer got me more interested in the realism infused into the gaming world.

As time went by I was getting more and more comfortable developing such models- still life that is. BlenderGuru was one of my regular hunt spots and I would spend hours over the tutorials mimicking the same.

My aim, though, is to create natural human/life figures and get them animated in a realistic sequence. This would possibly take a long time to conceive.

For the time being enjoy a couple of renders I could manage from this fantastic software.

To Ride A Dream...

2010-07-17T23:36:00.007+05:30

The adrenalin was running high, the skies shone blue and the distant valley held a dried river. The black tarmac seemed never to end and the line of trucks ahead was never ending. Blaring the horn through my tight glove hurt my knuckles and overtaking from the blind lefts seemed pretty foolish. Soon Gautham steered slow and stayed back as I looked at him from the far curve ahead. The momentum refused to cease, the air blew hard and the sweat dared to take a trickle as I squint the eye and leaned to the left and took over a truck over a blind steep turn over a gorge. Trailing a white Innova, I honked and eventually got ahead and curved ahead to the right, the speedo read at 70 or so I guess. Soon got a clearing as I took a steep left and throttled to the steep right U turn ahead, the rubble at the crub was loose.. I braked and engine braked down to a dead 20 as I “hard” steered to the right but the momentum got the better of us over the curb as I skid and bang fell on my knee as I held the ground and bump over my helmet and lay bewildered on the black tarmac. The adrenalin took some time to retreat as my heavy breaths were the only audible notes in the shell. My knee hurt and I was sure of a bleed, but what worried me more was my machine as I instantaneously got up and made vein attempts to get the 180kg monster to its wheels. A few daring pushes and up she stood as I heard a screech behind. The Innova guys came rushing out "Drive slow on these roads sir... these loose pebbles on the side and along the road are very dangerous... you please overtake slowly" said the Tibet-ian driver "You ok Mate... you are bleeding... I see a fuel leak” said a concerned tourist who came running at me "I'm all right... all OK . The vehicle seems just fine... just a bend" I bluffed. My knee hurt and 'was all of a sudden too tired. Soon got over my steed and kicked her to life and rode on at a mellow 40 :).
A ride is for man and machine to be one ... that day I realized it to be true: a dent to machine meant a tear and bang for me :). The ride for over 2500 kilometers over the northern most borders of India is a dream for any adventurer at heart and for me too. Crossing green and beautiful valleys at Kashmir to the rugged landscapes around Ladkak to the "so said" world’s highest motor able road to the high saltwater lake divided between India and China. This was a ride to stay for long in my heart.

For those 15 days I rode my dream...."

na na na, I would not bore you with detailed accounts of the ride, for all I know... I don’t know what I am going to blog of this ride... possibly would end up with trip logs or nothing at all ... it’s just too difficult to get the volume of experiences to compact blogging data. It was my dream and I am happy I could live through it.

Shantaram

2010-05-02T22:31:00.003+05:30

Reading novels/story books had re-caught my fancy after a long beak somewhere in 2005/6 I guess. Started with short stories, eventually could never keep my eyes off the fat book with a rusty-red and blue front cover.

My regular visits to crosswords would confirm two to three minutes spent near the shelf holding that book. Eventually one fine day, got it off the rack billed it home. The book was huge. My recent stints with Ayan Rand[1] were not so good- The Fountainhead completed halfway and Atlas Shrugged simply shrugged untouched in my book cabinet.

Before purchasing the same, a few reviews did catch my fancy. They spoke about a live story and always on the edge of your seat kind’ a read. I was a bit wary before starting it though- I mean it’s a fat book! Never before had I read -rather completed -anything that fat.

So I started following the footsteps of this Australian along the shores of Mumbai. Soon in about 2-3 hours a decent set of pages were flung left. I was fast. The story was well narrated and did seem lively. I was easy to imagine all the characters and the plot - like a movie/daily soap playing in front of your eyes.

In a few weeks I did cover good ground, and had no urge to let it down as my protagonist learnt the Marathi language and visited villages. I was good. Then out of habit, I started giving my sessions a pass... soon not a single page was flipped for over 2 weeks. But when I got back to it, it was all back like the soap played into the next episode.

Eventually my lethargy got me addicted to other books, weird but true. Read a few book in-between and eventually would be back to the novel in burst of 2 three sessions in a month or so. This went on… for over 3 years.

Eventually some 2 months back with over roughly three hundred pages left, I got on to it like a leach. And today it stands completed.

Marvelous, got to travel all over Mumbai to "Sunder" village to Goa to Pakistan to Afghanistan, then randomly to US UK Iran Spain etc... it was fabulous! One of the review said, "...was too quick to reach the end of the novel , that I deliberately slowed down and gave huge gaps in reading out of fear that the story might come to an end..." how true. Gripping and fantastic.

I always wanted to finish this novel before the movie was made.
Now I am happy.

Shantaram[1] is a beautiful piece of work and a standing ovation would be an understatement to the author Gregory D Roberts.

Heavy Rain Demo

2010-03-05T12:01:00.005+05:30

Heavy Rain was one of the most anticipated games since Uncharted2. Ravi spoke a lot about this game, Srib too was pretty exited to play that. Thus following the Playstation blogs etc finally the demo was launched mid of Feb. The demo took endless to download ~2 weeks with ~2hrs a day. 1.8GB does not come fast.

So eventually the download completed, ready to be played... how was it . Wonderful. Controls were cool, and it felt different from other games, not the usual point and shoot. It was more of an interrogative game, where you build conversations and piece up on evidence. Graphics were top notch... the low contrast played well for the reality factor.(It was too short though)

What I hated about the demo(Spoiler!): It reveals the murderer. At a crime scene you discover pollen and the other part of the demo shows one of the protagonist having heavy asthma... easy MATH.. hate it when such spoilers are loaded by the creators(Quantic Dream in this case)!
I really do'nt know if I'd buy this game now that I know who did it.

Ride to Chikhaldara

2010-01-07T20:48:00.015+05:30

As of 21st December we had been on a bike ride to Chikhaldara and back. Enroute we took a halt at the Lonar crater. The primary destination was the jungle and hill station at Chikhaldara and it was magnificent. This time around DaRomans rode in more style - we got ourselves a T-shirt printed, the design was so good it attracted cops. Have you ever heard of riding some 90kms just to fill petrol- yeah we did that! Lived in one of the worst hotels one could think of for the last day, one would go on to say staying under the sky would have been a better idea!
Nonetheless the ride was wonderful and eventful, sure we had a few slips and some fell sick on and off the ride but all was well and the ride went fantabulously well, 'cause "When in da Rome do da Romans" This ride was different from the previous ones, in the sense we took the interior route of Maharashtra- towards the central parts, the weather was one of the most striking differences we noticed.

The descriptions might be lengthy so make sure u get hold of a cup of tea as you scan through the pages....Day1: Pune-Lonar (383kms)
Day2: Lonar-Chikhaldara (305.9kms)
Day3: Chikhaldara (132.5kms)
Day4: Chikhaldara-Sillod (310.6kms)
Day5: Sillod-Pune (309.3kms)

This is the post by Nachiket and
this is what Amit had to say about the ride!

These are the snaps from my cam while
these are from Mandar's cam.

Bike ride to Chikhadara -Part 5

2009-12-25T23:08:00.017+05:30

25th Dec:
The day started at roughly 7am with all of us lazing up to the morning blues. NEWS: No water! Dammm! This hotel was getting our nerves now. So as all were waking up, a couple of us with a neighboring guest went down to the reception area and kicked the couple of sleeping hotel staff awake and yelled like crazy at them. Soon they came off their slumber and said since the lights were off there was no water. They then started the generator and connected a pumping machine to some external water drums and pumped water to the tanks. But the process was slow and could easily take over 2 hours, we did not have that leisure. So took our buckets from the room to the tanks and got it filled in. Slowly we were done with our morning duties, and decided to skip bath for the day.

The neighboring guest guy started heating water in a metal container using some firewood and bricks, some of us gathered around the fire to warm ourselves. The bikes were wet with due, just to indicate how cold it was the previous night. Oddly though the rooms were warm. We then had another round of arguments with the manager of the hotel and paid them less of the non-service. Avoid this hotel "Hotel Yuraj" -Sillod affiliated to MTDC at all costs! Soon we blasted our steeds to life and roared off to a near by tea stall(1133kms, 9:32am).

The place was small tea shop with an adjoining dhaba and served an amazing snack only available in these parts - "bun wada" it was amazing just the reverse of a wada paav. The bun is covered in the dough and deep fried. The taste is awesome. Tea too was good -name of the hotel "Agarval tea house". Some of us tanked up at the petrol pump across the road. In about 30 minutes we were on our merry way towards Aurangabad. We decided on synching up some 10kms past Aurangabad.

Mandar was trailing me since the previous day and continued with the same technique (he actually was riding at ~40kmph). In a few kilometers we took a brief halt at an HP petrol pump where Amit an Maneesh tanked up. Post this it was the same blast and bang from my bike and I had my throttle at full and the bike would decide with the gradient and texture of the road weather to go at 50 or hit 70+. Nachiket too stayed behind for this leg, the worse hit part was when we had to ascent a mini ghat just past the Ajantha Caves bifurcation- the bike purred to a glorious 20kmph with blast and puffs as I overtook a couple of trailers! Weird man and really frustrating... So effectively we left my speed at the hands of the bike and no one tried to stop or slow me... it was a weird riding experience.

Eventually Mandar and me rode into Aurangabad city via Chikhalthana and had missed a bypass route(1201.7kms, 11:02am). This side of the city seemed to be pretty modern with malls and a couple of multiplexes. Eventually the city got crowded and post some inquiries we got the right direction, Mandar synched with rest of the gang who had taken the bypass route and we decided to meet in ~10kms. So on we went and rode past Aurangabad city. In some time, we took a halt near a tea stall and called up the others(1231.3kms, 11:44am). In a few minutes the 4 bikes came zooming in and we had our cups of tea. We decided on taking the next halt near Nevasa phata and possibly look for a mechanic there for the bike. In about 20 minutes we rode off.

The highway ride was the same repetition of what we experienced in the ongoing ride, Amit was in a hurry since it was his wedding anniversary and had to be home as soon as possible. Mandar, Nachi and me trailed the pack and the others took turns going ahead and at times trailing back. Effectively we rode at an average of 60kmph. In some time we took a halt at a petrol pump where a few of us tanked up and decided on trying to trouble shoot the bike issue(1260.3kms, 12:42pm). We checked the fuel flow from the petrol tank which was perfectly OK and also dried up the carburetor. I called the hero honda service center mechanic and he suggested changing the spark plug. We planned on getting the repairs done at around Ahmendnagar.

We got off on our merry way and rode off the little city. It was starting to be a pain to ride the coughing machine.. but we carried on. It would get frustrating when some slow vehicle would come infront of me or some one would try crossing the road and would make me slow down. The bike would cough like a maniac when trying to speed up. I still remember on the stretch in MP. where a dog crossed the road and as the bike farted it sprung to its feet in fear staring at me.

By now Amit, Dhanya and Maneesh had ridden off ahead and decided to check for mechanic shops at Ahmednagar. Soon the traffic starting piling up and we were negotiating a huge line of trucks. We were entering Ahmednagar city. We arrived at a turn in the city where Maneesh was waiting for us, Amit had gone in looking for a mechanic shop and Dhanya as usual rode off ahead (he too was looking for a mechanic he said later)(1316.1kms, 13:30pm). Amit returned and said there we many mechanics inside the lanes, soon Amit and me rode of on my bike into the crowded city. The area we went to resembled Nanapeth (in pune) here we bought a spark plug and took it to a HeroHonda authorized mechanic and he said the spark plug was wrong then I had to make 3 rounds to various shops to get the right spark plugs and return the wrong ones. Eventually he fitted the spark plug and checked the bike and said there was some issue with the pickup and starter coils, and denied to fix them soon as he had 3 other bikes in his hand. He said we take a break near Sarathwadi for the bike to cool down before going on. So much for that, we returned to the others and narrated the story and eventually decided to ride off(14:24pm).

We decided to stop at the next available good looking hotel. As we started riding off Dhanya joined us at the outskirt post a bridge. We went searching for a good hotel and eventually halted at one "Hotel Sagar" (1323.9kms, 14:45kms). Here we ordered pitla, methipitla, shengdana thecha and lots of bhakris with rice and daal. The food was amazing and lip smacking. Post lunch we rode off and decided to stop somewhere near Saratwadi (15:36pm).

The ride continued along the highway at gradual speeds. Puffing and chugging through as we rode via a couple of villages, and eventually rode past Saratwadi (via Hotel Navnath we had stopped for breakfast a few days back)(1375.6kms, 14:30pm). We took a brief halt but decided to carry on as everyone was in the groove of the ride. So on we rode and went past more smaller towns and eventually entered Shikrapur and took our routine tea halt(1399.9kms, 17:04pm).

Here we refreshed ourselves and decided to meetup next directly at Gunjan talkies (depart at 17:14pm). My fuel indicator was showing bad signs so fueled up at a pump in a couple of kilometers. Slowly rode ahead as the roads started getting crowded, I guess I was at Wagholi, by now everyone was far ahead and was the last one. Some big VIPs were around and had a huge ground setup for a public meet, lots and vehicles and police had clogged the place. Negotiating the traffic I eventually rode past Koregaon and soon came the traffic signals of Pune, post which all my compadres stood waving at me near Gunjan talkies. The ride had come to an end(1432.7kms, 18:00pm).

Here we exchanged high fives and chit-chatted for sometime. The 4 big tigers from Semadoh was still a topic for laughter at this point and so was Maneesh's "oo ooooooo oooooo". Eventually Dhanya and Amit took their luggage off the saddle bags and bid adeu... Mandar departed a few minutes later and finally Maneesh Nachi and me took off in the direction of BundGarden bridge. Eventually Maneesh rode off then Nachi parted ways near Kumbharwada as I "puffed" "bang" "chugged" the frustrating city traffic and my caughing steed back home(1441.3kms, 18:47pm).

It was a ride, quiet different from the previous ones. In a way that we went away from the coast and this time did not experience sweat or sore butts post riding :).

B.t.w the blasts from my bike were later rectified and corrected by the mechanic, who said it was nothing more than a loose contact of a couple of wires... @#$%$^&*(#@$!!!

Bike ride to Chikhadara -Part 4

2009-12-24T23:07:00.017+05:30

24th Dec:
The day started pretty early with us waking to morning calls at ~6:30am. Soon we called up the reception for our buckets of hot water (the hotel heater system was down and hence they would provide us with water). Soon the water arrived and we took turns getting fresh. By ~7:30am we checked out of the hotel and rode down to the little snack shop, and had some quick snacks. Nachiket and me decided to leave early, since we would have formalities to complete with the checkpost guy. (821.4kms, 8:01am).

Here Nachi, had a slip at slow speeds. It was pretty funny, I was trailing him and thought he was taking a stop for a leak and then at a standstill position the bike fell off. No injuries just a few parts got jammed which were rectified soon. Past some twisties we were at the checkpost and started off with the formalities for tickets and shelling off 210/-. Soon everyone teamed in and with the formalities done we took the ghat to Semadoh(~8:30am).

By now we were familiar with the road and jungle, thus left at our own pace downhill. Past the twisties as were were nearing Semadoh, came a huge roar (like a muffled sound) definitely a tiger, monkeys jumped off trees as the sound came in. (None except Amit and me heard that roar... so well, we atleast got to hear a tiger roar in the tiger sanctuary). Soon we arrived at Semadoh took a regroup halt and rode off ahead. Here I was leading the entire way- the bike was not behaving well, it kept misfiring and for me it felt like riding a horse for every misfire blast. Still the smooth roads went on straight ahead at ~80kmph. We did slowdown to regroup and continued to ride in a straight line. There were a couple of close calls as passing by motorist/cars would stop to have an eyeful of us streamlined motorists and thus almost run into us. But nothing bad happened. Soon we rode past Dharni Phata. The road now started getting bad in patches and we riders were now spaced apart. The jungle started to thin off as we started riding along a thin road with farm on both sides. Soon we were following signs for Bhuranpura and Dharni. Finally we arrived at the little village of Dharni -our breakfast halt(896.9kms, 10:25am).

The previous day's food had taken a toll on me and my stomach was not feeling right and with a slight headache decided to skip snacks and just have a cup of tea. Other relished on the local food- which they said was the best they had on the entire ride (grrrrrrrr!). Many villagers gathered around the bikes and kept passing comments. Soon in about 30minutes we left in the direction of Bhuranpura.

For the ongoing route the road was not too good and we mostly had some farmland on both sides with a thin road going straight through various hamlets. At one point an Indica car parked to the left of the road revved hard to let out a plume of black smoke wall on the road and Nachiket rode straight through it at 70kmph - it looked cool, as he passed through- the smoke trailed him through the hole :). I followed him - possibly made similar impact on my trailing compadres. Soon enough we arrived at a small checkpost sorts and rode straight through with a board that read (Welcome to Madhya Pradesh)! Thumbs up and in we were the new state. The roads were pretty thin and continued with similar scenery around us. We kept riding more or less in a single file. The road signs were now in hindi and the overspeeding caution messages too were in Hindi- no Marathi :). At places the roads were pretty bad and we had to pass through some stagnating traffic, as trucks and heavy vehicles blocked a market road at a village. We rode on and soon arrived at a junction with Bhuranpur to the right.

All riders rode right following the lead of Mandar, soon we were crossing a huge river over a wide bridge -Tapi river. We were going in the wrong direction we never were to cross Tapi and simply had to by-pass Bhuranpur. Nonetheless we regrouped soon after riding some 6 kms into the city outskirts, were stopped by cops for a routine check of vehicle-papers. The cops were thrilled to know we had been ridding all the way from Pune, all cops crowded around us like curious spectators, it sure was a funny sight. One of the cops persuaded us to stay at Bhuranpur and take a look at a nearby hill fort which is like an icon for the city. We politely rejected his offer- by now Mandar and Maneesh were in a situation with no RTC papers since their bikes were brand new and the papers had not arrived. Some talks and 50 bucks let them free. We took appropriate directions from the cops and they directed us back 6kms and asked us to take a right towards Ichhapur and eventually Maharashtra via Muktainagar.

So we rode back some 6kms kilometrers and took a halt near a tea stall. Amit came in with Dhanya and we learnt a new story - Dhanya was traveling without papers and had lost the same a long time back. This was pretty bad, but he managed to slip off with us. Eventually Mandar and Maneesh teamed in and we had our cups of tea and Maneesh went down to a mechanic to get his mirror repaired (979.7kms, 12:29pm). Eventually post tea, we decided to ride towards Ichhapur and have lunch either there or at Muktainagar.

The road from here was along a highway and it was pretty smooth - we could speed after a long time. We went riding over a couple of rivers, some were full others seemed pretty dry. Soon we were driving through highway traffic and eventually entered Ichhapur a small town and just as immediately rode through a checkpost sorts with a board indicating we were leaving Madhya Pradesh. The road signs were again in friendly territory. My bike would not let me ride any faster that 70kmph. So I was trailing back, others recognized this and took turns trailing me or ride around me :). The afternoon was pretty hot and a big change from the last 3 cool days- that meant getting tired as you ride. We arrived at Muktainagar, and rode into junction but found no spot where we could have lunch. (1017.8kms, 13:36pm). Post some inquiries locals asked us to have lunch at a near by college canteen. Amit and Dhanya went to check out the restaurant- they called back to affirm the quality and we gathered for lunch.

The canteen was pretty simple and was built adjoining the Muktainagar college. The owners were pretty happy to see us and we were pretty tired under the sun. Took a couple of tables under the shade of a tree. The waiter kid was an enthusiastic lad and suggested some good food -shev bhaaji, aloo rassa bhaji , vaangi bhaaji and lotsa chapaatis and papads. These parts of Maharashtra are know was extremely spicy food, so we instructed them to make it less spicy. The food was simple and amazing ... the taste was top notch. Even with my rotten stomach I could not resist the temptation. After a long relaxing break we took our leave and took directions and rode off in the direction of Jamner our next halt(1018kms, 14:35pm).

The ensuing road was no different, but post some distance there was this construction activity underway and that meant a lot of rubble. Maneesh managed to slip again, but with no injuries. Soon we came to an extremely bad patch of road where there was a deadloack with a truck entering a ditch an we lining up to get out of it, but soon enough we were on our merry way. The road went through some desolate parts and soon we came to a halt near a railway crossing. Here and individual could not resting patting all of Amit's protective gear and Amit could not resist himself explaining the merits of each. A train passed by but the the gates did not open , an engine passed some 5 minutes later . Eventually the gates opened and we rode through. Roads were no different and we simply kept going. Soon we arrived at Jamner and took a regroup halt, Jamner was to the right we had to go straight. I had to fuel up so did the same while others settled at a tea stall (1065.8kms, 15:51pm).

Here the tea shop owner and few other visitors suggested us not to goto Ajantha Caves as it was to close by 5pm and also one could not ride all the way to the caves. We would have to park the vehicles at a junction then take a bus to the caves. We contemplated on various options for an overnight stay- Pardapur and staying at Dahnya's farm house was one of them. We decided on riding down to Pardapur and hunt for places to stay- The Ajantha caves visit was in the bin. We left for Pardapur (16:25pm).

Rode straight along the highway, my bikes condition was deteriorating and we thought of getting it repaired at some nearby city if time permitted. Eventually post some highway straight drive we arrived at Pardapur neat an MTDC resort. The owners there pulled the gates on us saying it was full, but did suggest an MTDC affiliated resort "Yuvraj" just on the outskirts of Sillod(1095.7kms, 17:07pm). We tried convincing the owner, but was of no avail. Dejected we decided to ride on towards Sillod- Dhanya suggested we had a fallback plan in case no hotels worked out -his farmhouse. We rode on stright towards Sillod.

We had decided to keep an eye out for Yuvraj hotel, Amit and others rode straight ahead to make the search at higher speeds I kept chugging behind. So by now I was riding pretty much alone far behind, in about 45minutes the riders were waving down to me along the side of the road in a distance. It was a butt break halt. Sillod was hardly some 2 kms away -Amit, Maneesh and Dhnya went off ahead to search for the hotel while the rest of us took a halt (I needed one especially after riding the farting horse!). Soon Amit called and said the hotel seemed OK and was just 5 minutes from where we were- as usual the others had ridden away.

Eventually we all grouped up at "Hotel Yuvraj". From outside it seemed pretty neat. The rooms were not well kempt and we took an adjoining less untidy room. The staff had promised to give us 4 extra beds. Thus we wrapped down into the room and decided to have dinner at the hotel itself. (1132kms, 18:00pm). Some of us took a fresh up and others walked off in the open area of the hotel which seemed like a mini resort. Having too many mosquitoes we requested for repellent coils which we got. Later we spent time in the central reception room/dining area as we watched the India-Srilanka match. The cold was unbearable and some of us got comfortable near the bhatti (where they bake naans and rotis).

Here drinks were ordered which arrived after about 45 minutes, the dinner came after about 2 hours- pathetic service. I had already dozed off at the table and Mandar gave me neat massage in a bid to keep me awake- Thanks Mandy!. Later Mandy and the owner went down to the drinks shop to change the drinks since they were outdated, and it turned out the drink shop owner had over charged! Eventually dinner arrived and it tasted horrible- chicken handi was like rubber pieces, the veg handi was made in chinese gravy after this we could not have anything. The only good part was having all those 12 boiled eggs before the dinner.

Eventually tired and disoriented we retreated back to our rooms. The beds had not arrived only 3 extra beds were there and no blankets. Lots of shouting eventually got in 2 blankets and an extra double bed, this irritated most of us and we went out and blasted the manager and the owner of the hotel at 12 midnight. The bozzos had not given us anything and expected us to sleep tight in the cold night. Finally they assured we would get everything soon, at ~12:30 am all the blankets arrived amidst our sleep. Irritated I snapped at the manger who got the blankets, Maneesh who was sleeping next to the door woke up mid-sleep and went "Huuuhh.. hooo ooooo ooooooooooo oooooooo ... blah blah blah" blabbering in his sleep "sleep off man" I snapped at him and just as immediately he dozed off - Nachi and me enjoyed this, and we kept teasing him for this for the rest of the trip.

Eventually we called it a day at ~12:35am. The next day our ride was to end and we could do that at a leasurly pace, but with my bikes bad condition meant our speeds would be hampered. The next day was to see a major influence cased by good old CBZ the fart buster!

Bike ride to Chikhadara -Part 3

2009-12-23T23:07:00.022+05:30

23rd Dec:
The night was calm and possibly full of roars from black Romans... Woke up with the alarm at roughly 7am and got down with our routine. No one was in the mood to be up eventually we ordered our tea. Looked like all except me were in the drowse of a mood. Tea arrived, eventually at ~8:15 Nachi and me took a stroll down the road to the nearby little hotel(New India Cafe and Nashta House), where we had our next share of tea followed by some amazing pohe. The place was like a typical hill-station, many tourists were getting off buses and other getting ready for their morning stroll. I amused myself playing with a little pup. It was chill, the sunshine gave some much needed respite from the cold.

Back at the hotel, our riders got down and we were chatting with the hotel folk asking for places to see around. They shared enough info and we decided on doing some sight seeing first followed by the Jungle Safari. All of us, then visited the little hotel again for a round of breakfast...(~9:30am) pohe, wada, misal, daal wada all with rassa and tea was the menu. Chit chatted a bit and returned back to our hotel. The chicken too could not cook-a-doodle with a cold down their throat. We spent some time down at the lobby as others took turns to get fresh for the day.

The hotel staff had indicated that the dormitory would be vacant that day and we decided to take a look. It was on the terrace but was untidy. The view from up there was wonderful! The rates for the dorm were similar to that of our rooms combined, hence we continued with our rooms.

By 11am we were all attired and ready to stroll. Except Nachi's thunderbird all vehicles took the road and "BhimKund" was our first halt, which was 4kms from where we were. We rode along a presumed direction but then eventually were riding along a clean straight road which later went down a ghat, after some 11kms of riding I decided on stopping the procession. We were in the wrong direction for sure and also my fuel was indicating "not good for fooling around". Thus we turned around and when we saw the board "4kms Chikhaldara", we stopped and what seemed to be a sort of view point, decided it was our Bhimkund and made all sorts of mockery and enjoyed the views. It was a clean and clear day and the views and spirits were high.

We then rode in the direction of the city again and spotted the board for Bhimkund (we had actually ridden past the right turn had taken the following right ). Following the boards we went along nice smooth roads and eventually came to a halt at what seemed to be a hight point for the start of a ghat road as we spotted many buses parked along the side and a school picnic was making way off the road down a slop along a walk way. Assuming this to be a parking lot we parked our vehicles and strolled down the slope. It was a simple walk down which eventually went over a little footbridge along the side of the hill and eventually walked down to the same road where it came to an end at a vantage point.

Truly speaking we could have ridden down till the point.. well alas we were here. Where the road ended there was this huge triangular vantage point with a parapet wall running along the valley side. The valley was deep and beautiful, much bigger than what we proclaimed to be our BhimKund. We spent some time around the vantage point and later walked past it and trekked down the slop to what seemed to be the start of a water fall from a little natural water reservoir (kund... possibly BhimKund). Spent some time fooling around the spot and in awe of nature. In some time headed back to the vantage point where Amit played with some school kids who ran off in fear! :). There is a notice board indicating the history behind the place it basically said "Bhima had beheaded Rakshasa Kickhak and flung his body down this vally and washed the blood off his hands in a little pond which is now called 'BhimKund' and since the event this place was called KichakDara (dara as in dari in marati) and with time it became ChikhalDara". Knowledge++. Eventually we trekked back along the hill slope to where our bikes were parked. Maneesh had no idea we had to walk this far and came all attired in protective gear and helmet (he looked like an astronaut teleported right off the moon).

We got on to our next spot- "Malvia Point". This was not too far from where we were. Simply retraced the route and took the boards indicating to Malvia Point. The road eventually ended and we had to go though some really bad paths (it was simply carved off the hill ) -which was no more than dust and rubble and too slippery. Maneesh slipped off this road but fortunately at extreme slow speeds. The path ended when we felt we could ride no further. A small walk down the dent in the hill and we were at another vantage point, which was just some distance from BhimKund- The views were similar. We could spot Gawilgad fort in a distance. Spent some time fooling around before heading back.

Devi was our next spot to be seen, We eventually got off the dirt track and made our way towards Devi with Mandar and pillion Nachi heading the route. We reached Devi which seemed to be like a little temple with a huge pond along side it where they had boating and horse riding activities and was heavily crowded. We simply rode past towards GawilGad fort.

The fort in a distance seemed to be pretty huge with a mega big entrance. Post some discussion we decided to enter the fort and sped a few minutes. There was possibly a college trip that had come on a visit here and hence the crowds. The fort was in ruins with just the bastions intact. We walked some distance inside and could see how vast the this fort was ... seemed to be over a kilometer wide. After some time we explored a little more before retreating back to our vehicles.

Here we met a gentle man who on seeing the bullets asked if they were 500CC and continued to say that no other vehicle could ride this far. On getting knowledge that 150 and 350 CC too made it till here ,he chose silence and walked off. Another couple of people asked if the bullets were running on Diesel, on denial they simply gave an awkward grin and walked off. Well diesel meant more fuel efficiency and thus the query.

By now the clock was ticking at ~13:15pm and we decided to ditch any other spots of interest to lunch. We pre-decided to have lunch at Satpura resort. So off we rode in the direction, Now we could see the roads we had taken the previous night... it was wide but the turns were pretty actute and dangerous for the dark. Eventually we were at Satpura and were directed to the dining area. Soups, Waradi paneer, zhunka, bhakri curries made up our lunch. We relished on the mouthwatering food, sure it was a bit spicy but was amazing. Post lunch spent some time around the resort lazing and chit chatting and deciding on what is to be done next. Jungle Safari it was- but what about fuel!?

My CBZ, Maneesh's bullet and Amit's pulsar were showing not so good indications. A visit to the nearby petrol pump indicated no fuel till 30th of December! They were selling fuel in black but we decided against the same. The nearest place to get fuel was Paratwada which was some 35 kms from here (the same route we had mistook as the BhimKund route in the morning), but also we had to do Jungle Safari which was 25 kms down the road in the other direction at Semadoh. The clock was ticking around 3pm and safari was to close by 5pm, so the taking Chikhaldara-Paratwada-Semadoh was out of the question which was some 80kms away and would mean missing the safari. So it was decided to take a risk- ride down to Semadoh have the JungleSafari then ride on to Paratwada, where we fuel in and then come up to Chikhaldara. It did seem pretty weird to go all this far just for fuel, but it had to be done and fast too.

So back we got attired and back on our steeds to leave the place towards Semadoh (714.5kms, 15:30pm). In a few minutes we reached the checkpost where we were asked to take tickets again, since the tickets were valid only on a daily basis. So 210/- lost again and 20 more minutes gone. With all this done we eventually rode down the curves through the jungle in broad day light. The jungle was beautiful and thick. It did have a few straight stretches but many were curves, one could ride at a max of ~60kmph. We rode more or less in a file spaced far apart. There was some road construction work going on (we did observe this the previous night too), the only bad patch. Also with a string of mud lying along the central part of the road meant we would automatically cling to one edge of the isolated road. Eventually we got fairly low and the distance reading for Semadoh along the mile stone kept decrementing. A fence appeared along the 2km mile stone to the left and we rode past the checkpost near the Forest Dept. Guest house. We regrouped at this point and rode inside the guest house premises. (739.7kms, 16:30pm)

The place was neat and big. Quick inquiries with the concerned officials revealed that we had to arrange our own vehicles since the forest dept vehicle was away on duty. The official asked us to act fast in booking a vehicle at Semadoh(which would be very easy) since the safari would stop at 5pm (basically he said if we reported past 5pm the safari would not take place.). The safari was to cost 120/-. Amit and me wasted no time going to the Semadoh village looking for a vehicle. Villagers pointed us to a place where we could book a vehicle, and people from that place pointed us to another (hospital) where we could meet a person who would arrange the vehicle. We reached the spot and inquired for the person who came and said he would reach the Forest dept. guest house in 15 minutes before 5pm. He charged 500/- for the hire(a green Maruti Van).

Back at the guest house we informed the officials of the same and once the driver arrived we were appointed a guide who with a smiling face joined us all inside the van. Amit, Mandar, myself, Maneesh and Nachi sat behind while Dhanya sat with the guide and driver in the front seat. The van drove in the direction of Dharni Phata for some 10 kms before taking a right to a checkpost where we had to show the JungleSafari booking receipt. Some cars and vans were coming out in the opposite direction, The road was nothing more than a dirt path that went through the thickets for about half an hour. We were told we would eventually enter Semdoh from the other side.

All of us were pretty exited and were expecting to see some animals around this part. The guide purely believed in smiling at his customers and preferred chatting with the driver. The driver believed in chatting with everyone , Dhanya believed in pep talk with his new found companions and the rest of us believed in making non-sense talk when none of the informed ones pledged to talk with us. So we had our laughter riot. The only information we got and that too from Mr. driver was that all trees were "Sagwaan wood trees". The guide even on questioning felt too shy to open his mouth. Duh!

A passing vehicle in the opposite direction indicated that there was some animal or something in a distance , but our informers believed otherwise and took us rocking and shaking though the dirt path past streams and over streams. All we saw nice thick foliage in various shades of green and brown. Not one insect in sight- we at least could spot monkeys on our ride along the tar roads! Not even a cat or dog in these parts!

We reached another checkpost which marked the end of the safari and meant we would be on tar roads again. At the exit a couple of motorists (possibly new to these parts) inquired in "Yahan se shortcut hai kya?" pointing towards the trail we came from, to which Dhanya in all frustration answered "Haan haan .. dhikhe chaar bade bade dhike" extending his hands out of the window proving his point. We got into a laughter frenzy and it was fit we simply could not control, we still keep giggling about it till date. The poor motorists decided on following us all the way to Semadoh instead :).

The driver said that one can spot bears if not tigers, but that was possible only during the summer months when animals would come down to water holes near the trails. He said that at this time with thick foliage, even if an animal was nearby it would be camouflaged. So much for tigers we drove back to the forest dept. Here we completed all formalities. But one thing is for sure, the place is thickly forested and beautiful!

At roughly 6:15 we departed from the place to the Semadoh village tea hut for some tea. A group of bikers from some near by village were here and the cold in all its might was here as well. Some gulps of tea later we rode off in the direction of Paratwada which was along the state highway. The cold was relentless but the roads were good. It went straight at occasions and twisting and twining at others, the high beams from heavy vehicles in the opposite direction was an issue, so we would simply stop and let the vehicle pass. Riding on for many kilometers later we came to a ghat section and went on to a descent along curves, we could spot a huge cluster of city lights in a distance -possibly Paratwada city. In some time we took a halt along a straight road and inquired for directions to Paratwada and followed the directed path.

The city of Paratwada is huge and seemed like a modern city from what we saw. There were many petrol pumps but none of the residents believed in following a queue system. Mandar and me tanked up at an Indian Oil pump while others did the same at HP petrol pump (784.5kms, 19:56pm).

Post tanking up we were in for another blunder from Dhanya, who went missing- but not for long. We utilized the time in getting the appropriate directions to Chikhaldara. We were to go via Dhamangaon to Chikhaldara up the same road we mis-took in the morning. In ~30minutes we rode off.

We went in a single file, the initial stretch was straight and eventually went along twists upwards. Enroute I took a halt on the ghat since I just could not control the cold and had to clean up my nose! Riders went up some distance and Nachi and Dhanya came riding back in search of me. We had a hearty laugh later when I told them the true reason :). The ride was pretty event-less with us riding past various little village boards and eventually via twits up the ghat to Chikhaldara. Here we had to pay an entry fee - This we were told was the Govenment fee and what we had been paying earlier was the forest dept. fee. We were pretty irate with this and gave them a piece of our mind, but there was nothing they could do either. Eventually we reached our hotel (817kms, 21:20pm).

Back at our hotels freshened ourselves up. There was some function going on in the near by public hotel- loud unheard blaring music. We like the tunes and were dancing to it! Soon we decided to have dinner at Satpura resorts and rode off in that direction. It was very cold and unforgiving. We were all wrapped but the cold still got to us. We had dinner indoors and had ordered similar food as afternoon. It was sumptuous. Post dinner rode back to our hotels in the dark and ice-cold climate.

We decided to leave by ~7am since we would have the forest dept. formalities to complete on the way out. By now my bike was showing signs of bad exhaust notes... I was not sure what it was. We slept off at ~11pm, the next day we would be riding via Madhya Pradesh and stay somewhere near Ajantha. It was a long day and demanded some sound sleep- which we did get for the night!

Bike ride to Chikhadara -Part 2

2009-12-22T23:07:00.030+05:30

22nd Dec:
The mouse did make some of us wakeup past midnight. It was morning, with us lazing up at ~7am. Again Dhanya was in a drowsy mood, so all of us except him went for the morning tea. So off we got 3 bikes from the garage and away we were. Took a break at the tea stall where fresh tea was being prepared, post that we went off in the direction of the crater. The town was sleepy and a complete contrast to the previous night. The air was chill and a good feel all over, as we rode off the town in the other direction towards the crater.

In no time past some turns in a distance the plateau seemed to have caved in, up we revved our engines as we came to a juncture and took a right and later entered one of the guest house premises that had a wonderful vantage point. The crater was visibly huge. Sure enough this Lonar halt was big success(we were brainstorming over a halt at Lonar or Akola the previous day), none of us had seen anything like it before. But again if seen in the non-geographical interest angle it seemed like nothing more than a huge hole with water within. Yet it was beautiful , the water was salt water and we stood there in awe. We did contemplate going down to the bank, it seemed to be ~500feet deep, but it had to be done on foot so that translated to time consumption and add up to delays for the days destination and hence it had to be chucked out. Some local kids did ask us to visit the hot water spring, but time constraints got the better of us and we rode back to our lodge. (~8:20am)

Back at the lodge, packed in all the stuff had a fresh hot bath and decided to throw off the pack of "rusk biscuits" since our rodent friend decided munch on the snack. We did report the same to the lodge staff and Mandar held a 1K bet too and won the same (naaa... we did not cash in). Nonetheless it was ~9:25 (389.3kms) by the time we were leaving Lonar and traveling in the direction of Mehekar.

We rode in a single file and soon reached Sultanpur (400.8kms, 9:25am). Took the straight road that led to Mehekar. The road was a single lane and went through some rich country side. Street signs indicated the proximity of Mehkar and soon we entered a little town and took a halt near a little shop (Hotel Ganesh) that was serving tea and some hot munchies(412.6kms, 10.02am). A huge crowd gathered around us and were chatting as to who we might be etc. (now this was pretty much a know behavior for us since attired people on bikes is a rare sight around these places). Here we had some amazing daalwada, wada paav pohe and loads of tea. A gentle man helped us with directions to Chikhaldara and also drew us a nice map and since we were on a joy ride on bikes he suggested we take a route via PopatKhed to a place called Semadoh to Chikhaldara, all via the lush jungle of Melghat. He also asked us to stay at Semadoh (which is the base of Chikhaldara and thickly forested too) since we could expect tiger roars etc at night which would be a rarity atop. Loaded with information , some of the bikes tanked up at a near by petrol pump, off we were (10:20am).

The next destination was decided to be Akola some 100kms away since we were fresh and ready for the speed run. The ride was not characterized by any special events per say, it was simple ans straightforward keep riding in the direction of Akola. We did keep circling our places around each other in the line of bikes. In about an hours time as our backsides started to pray for a break, signboards for Akola started to emerge. We soon got over a highway after taking a right, regrouped and rode in the direction of Akola. We rode for some distance and came to an intersection near an St. bus depot (it seemed to be the outskirts of the city). Here we took a left and a halt near a tea stall and took directions for Akot, which was nothing but straight along the turn we took. Maneesh steered off left and retreated back to where we were (514.6kms, 12:08pm). Took a 20 minute halt before Mandar and me rode off to tank up at a near by petrol pump (518kms, 12:40pm). The pump helper asserted our directions and was happy to see riders in this direction. Soon we all teamed up and rode through the heavily crowded Akola city and off it in the direction of Akot. We passed through a ghat section partway which was pretty scenic, but no one was in the mood of a halt. The later part of the ride was not eventful but pretty comfortable as we rode into the town of Akot (561.4kms, 13:30pm).

Akot was crowded and we could not spot any decent hotel. Amit expressed his urge to have lunch at the right time if possible and we decided on the same. Some quick inquiries and we were directed to a hotel in the vicinity(Swad and Shet hotel). The place was not too big, but nothing to grumble about either. So parked our steeds in the crowds and in we were (in these parts, people do get curious looking at loaded bikes but do not do anything mischievous either.. sure we would ask the owners of the hotel to keep a watch and they'd oblige). The lunch was really good amazing waradi theecha with bhakris and some lip smacking curries. The butter milk was not so much to talk about though. Amit had a long and lengthy discussion with the owner of the hotel and a couple of his friends, who were possibly in their teens, about directions and places to stay at Chikhaldara. Here too they helped us in all possible ways, with telephone numbers etc. Loaded with all this information off we were in the direction of Semadoh(14:35pm).

The road soon got off the crowded city and we were riding on some not so good roads, a river made an appearance by the side and in the distance was a range of hills. These were the Melghat ranges. I was a bit irate that no one took halts at the previous picturesque ghat between Akola and Akot, so out came my camera and lo behold started clicking as we rode. Dhanya was trailing me all along and he too started with the recording spree. One could not ride too fast since the roads were OK-ish. Soon we rode past the board pointing to Semadoh and rode through thin vegetation, we were riding under tall trees and eventually under a thick cover. Dhanya rode all around our file recording with his camera (later he was irritated that he forgot to click record!.. hahaha). The cover as wonderful and very serene. The road had a lot of sand on the path and thus our speeds were at bay. Soon we came near a checkpost. We were at Khatkali Naaka(585.8kms, 15:20pm).

We had to part with 210/- (Rs. 15 per vehicle and Rs. 20 per head) and the guards there gave us precise directions to Semadoh. In roughly 20 minutes we were done and were off riding through the jungle. There was a stream along side and some truckers were having their bath as they waved out good byes... The road led in an upward direction through twists and rubble. For the most part the road was good, but there were pebble and mud along most parts of the road and hence the risk of slips. The lead riders would generally stop and sych up at every occasion since some of us were having difficulty negotiating the acute turns at high speeds. Soon we reached a vantage high point (there was this concrete shed constructed there) and that's where we got an amazing panoramic view of the Melghat jungle. It was huge and wonderful, thick and green. There are ~60 tigers in this forest, we were sure it would be a rarity to spot any(~16:00pm) Many snaps and off we were on the road ahead in 10 mins.

The twists continued and one occasion the whole road for a good kilometer was nothing laid with cut stones(the ones they layout just before making the road). Slow but steadily we kept riding along many slips but no falls we were moving ahead. Soon the road gave way to some nice tarmac and took a slight descent as it went through a nice country side with various streams and farms. Soon the jungle reappeared and so did the twisties. Along this road we were pretty fast and soon came to a T junction -Dharni phata(641.2kms, 17:10pm). Lots of langoors were dancing on tree tops. The place was amidst the forest , the road to the left went to Dharni and eventually Madhya Pradesh and to the right led to Semadoh. Some quick inquiries with a couple of people on vehicle confirmed our direction and off we were.

The ensuing roads were simply amazing, one could rip at break-a-neck speeds on these roads... but again it was pretty dangerous too, since there would be the sudden uninvited turn. We rode pretty fast and heavy, this was a smooth and best leg of the ride (we had to ride back on the return journey as we had to take the Dharni route). For some reason there were speed breakers at regular intervals- we later learnt it was to protect the animals crossing the road. Soon we rode past an unmanned checkpost to the village of Semadoh(663.2kms, 17:36pm). The temperature was at an all time low, it was tough to stand at one spot. We soon settled ourselves at a tea shack and had endless cups of hot tea. Maneesh and Mandar inquired at the forest dept. guest house for places to stay but unfortunately it was full since many of the officials had come for some convention and training session. Later Mandar and myself rode down to the government guest house a couple of kilometers away just to hear the same story. We had no option but to go upto Chikhaldara for the night.

Villagers did persuade us to go up, as it was getting dark. From where we stood there were 2 routes to get atop, one ~25kms straight up though the jungle and second ~80kms via Paratwada along the state Highway. With the darkening surroundings we unanimously decided on the 25kms route :). After spending an unfruitful and terribly cold hour at Semadoh we rode to the checkpost that led atop via the 25km jungle route(This was along side the forest dept. guest house). The Forrest official refused to open the gate, since he said it closes at 6pm , later when Mandar and others persuaded him that we had failed to find rooms and rode a long distance on bikes he surrendered to our pleas and let us through, but advised us to stay together as it was a jungle. It was dark, and got pitch dark as we got into the thickets.

The road was not at all bad, it kept going up on most occasions though twits and we rode in a single file at an average speed of ~30kmph. It was impossible to speed in the dark, the only light we had were our bike beams. We rode obediently Mandar-Maneesh-Amit-Dhanya-Nachiket-Me was the file and it went like a serpent through the tickets. The chill had got us all numb and it was relentless. I started singing to beat the cold. In a distance we could see the valley in the dark and the distant silhouettes of mountain ranges. A couple of vehicles rode past us in the opposite direction and we spotted some road construction workers sitting around a little bonfire amidst the jungle!

In ~45 minutes we reached the top to another checkpost to enter Chikhaldara.(683.5kms, 19:11pm). Here we simply had to show our previous receipts and the guard there made entries for all the bikes. The guard was a pretty cheerful character and shared various stories, he also said he spotted 2 tigers that morning near the checkpost. Well soon enough we were done with the formalities and we were let inside the hillstation.

The road was good and soon past some tuns we came to a juncture from where we took a left to the main city center. We stopped near a Hotel Utkarsh and started on the hotel hunt(688.9kms, 19:30pm). Amit was anxious to get a hotel soon, since his motions were under control for a good 8 hours! Hotel Utkarsh seemed nice at 600/- a room with an extra bed and Amit was more than content with it:). Mandar and me checked an MTDC affiliated lodge but did not find that good for the price and later checked Satpura resort some 2kms away, but found it too expensive. We finally settled for Hotel Utkarsh. The owner of the hotel was impressed with us bikers and also decided on showing us a new hotel he was constructing in the vicinity (which was more of a resort), but Nachi and Mandar were not content with it as it was still undone.

Soon we picked our rooms and changed over for dinner.(~20:10pm) Dhanya again crashed on the bed ad decided not to team in (bummer!). Well we walked down to the new hotel where we expected some campfire and good food. The place was extremely cold and we were shivering like crazy. Walked past a crowded hotel like place which was bustling with loud music, and soon walked past a calm street to the new hotel Utkarsh.

Here we sat with the owner around a small "shekoti"(firewood being burnt to keep the cold away). It was a relief to be there, here we ordered some routine food and loads of boiled eggs. Then started the drinks session which lasted for roughly over an hour, then came in the eggs that we gulped down in no time. Soon food was served and we very reluctantly deserted our hot place to the outdoor table. The food was anything but hot, not even close to be called warm.. Amit commented"Yeh kya Anda curry hai .. yeh to Thanda curry hai bhai". But we were hungry so had some meal and found the kichadi rice good. sent off a parcel to our room for Dhanya. Spent some more time by the fire and finally walked back to our hotel.

Amit kept saying we should do the Jungle safari, many people confirmed the safari is done at Semadoh and one should have their own 4 wheeler to do it. We decided on doing what's best once we wake up the following morning... no one was keen on an early wakeup call. Back at the hotel (~12:15am) we crashed at our beds and off we were zipping though dream land in no time. The following day was to be a relax day with just some sight seeing, and hence we decided on taking it easy... little did we know what the following day had in store for us!

Bike ride to Chikhaldara -Part 1

2009-12-21T23:02:00.013+05:30

The last ride barely seemed a day away as we started with our discussions for the next year-end ride. The mails floated around as destinations seemed to toss all around the map. Gujarat and Rajasthan seemed to be very bright candidates as a ride towards central Maharashtra started taking shape. Panchmari (in M.P.) was very much a bright candidate but timing issues finally kept us at bay. The final route we penned down was Pune-Chikhaldara-Pune going via Lonar and returning via Ajantha lasting for about 5 days.

Just a couple of days before the ride, we got ourselves a group t-shirt printed, so "DaRomans" was now itched in print. Getting the "T" printed is a different story in itself. N achiket, Mandar and Maneesh on R.E. bullets Amit on a Bajaj Pulsar , Dhanya on his HMSI Unicorn and me on the H.H. CBZ were the final candidates for the ride. 21st -25th of December were the dates and after a few initial hiccups, the day finally arrived.

21st Dec:
Mandar, Nachiket, Maneesh and myself left home at 7:10am for Gunjan talkies near Bund Garden bridge. We were to group with the remaining lot and Bandya too decided to come in to bid us adieu. within 10 minutes we were finally at the group-up point as Amit and Dhanya joined us and thus started the bag loading session. Mandar, Nachiket and Maneesh filled in their saddle bags with all stuff from Amit and Dhanya as mine was full to the brim. Bandya joined the party, boosted our confidence as we bid farewell to Pune and took the road down to Ahmednagar (~7:50am, 7.8kms).

Dhanya rode off ahead as his tank was low, and he said he would be waiting near an HP pump at Wagholi some 10 kms away. Little did we know this was be the start of events :). A halt at one of the pumps near Wagholi (17.6kms, 8:05am) held no sign of Dahnya and none of us spotted him anywhere. Hence we decided to keep an eye at other pumps ahead, but still no sign. By now our bike queue Dhanya missing, had Nachi and me trailing and the rest of the pack far ahead, but every now and then we would team in. Eventually Nachiket got a call/message from Dhanya, who said he would be near Ranjangaon. Thus we rode steadily till Ranjangaon(54.2kms , 8:42am) -still no sign of Dahnya. Amit knew of a hotel near the place at Saratwadi a few kilometers ahead, so we took our breakfast halt there(Hotel Navnath - 65kms, 9am) . Maneesh rode off far ahead and some calls later we called him back some 4 kms, Dhanya was missing. Nonetheless we ordered our munchies -Misalpaav, Wadapaav and the first of million cups of tea, some calls up and down with Dhanya finally got him to our place some 1/2 hr later. It turned out he was waiting for us on the wrong side of the highway -Big Bummer! Nonetheless, breakfast was done-simply amazing- and we re-attired ourselves back on our stallions. (~9:45am) We decided to take our halt some 50kms away which was a few kms past Ahmednagar, and also would be away from city traffic. (Khedgaon was our halt point).

The ensuing ride was via the good NagarRoad. The ride was, so to say, pretty monotonous. Sure people did keep overtaking each other and fell back on occasions. A couple of close calls with other vehicles but all was well. Soon we drove past Ahmednagar and finally arrived at out butt-break halt no. 1 Khedgaon (117.2kms ,10:32am). A quick synchup and off we were on our road ahead. Here the next halt was decided to be a place called Nevasa Phata some 60kms away. Again nothing much eventful took place for the rest of the ride, the sun too was not on a full bask and thus the ensuing ride seemed pretty comfortable.

(177.6kms, 11:35am) It was here at Nevasa phata that Dhanya decided to gorge on some eggs for his cold. The rest of us had some tea. Here we met a gentleman from Amravati and he was pretty intrigued by our bikes.... "kitna deta hai milage yeh bike" he asked pointing at Nachi's bike "... bees ya pandra" .. I said "chaliiss" and he went in a "oh man that cool..." sort'a expression. But again he was kind enough to give us all sorts of directions and help on where to stay etc. Got a few of our pictures clicked from him. With tea done we were headed to our next destination again some 50 kms away at a place called ChikhalThana on the outskirts of Aurangabad, some 1 kms past. All this was Dhanya's territory, since he is from Aurangabad (and despises the same for some off reason ). (11:55am)

So back on our bhps we went zipping down the highway enroute Aurangabad. Again the similar highway. Its quiet funny as you keep riding all the hours within a helmet shell, how your mind starts conversing and start singing various songs. Its quiet fun actually - just a way of saying the ride was pretty good. Very soon the highway took the expression of a big city outskirt and soon we were driving through an Army area followed by the crowded city of Aurangabad. The city was big and seemed very advanced (next to Pune I would say). One good thing, people seemed to follow rules. Soon we saw boards for Chikhalthana and as the traffic started to thin down we took our halt near what seemed to be the end of city. (244.3kms, 13:06pm).

Had a quick break and inquired around for a hotel for lunch. We were advised to ride to a "Hotel Abhijeet" a few minutes away. (13:15pm). A few minutes later we reached Hotel Abhijeet along side the highway (249.1kms, 13:30pm). The hotel seemed good, moreover we did not have much options around. Lots of currys-veg kolhapuri, veg bhoona and rotis with daal kichadi made up the menu. Chitter chatter and lots of teases later we finally left at ~14:30pm. The waiter was pretty happy with us and also asked one of his colleagues to give us some information about Lonar. Our next stop was to be past Jalna at a place called SindkhedRaja.

With my meter clocking low on fuel we took a quick break at one of the HP pumps (263.9kms, 14:51pm) and off I zipped at break-a-neck speeds towards Jalna. Dunno what made me take the speed run, Dhanya and Maneesh were trailing me as we entered the crowded city of Jalna. Nackiket, Amit and Mandar were trailing far behind. Here we missed on of the turns that lets us bypass the city traffic, and so took a halt and inquired for directions and also synced with the other 3 compadres over phone and decided on meeting directly at SindhkhedRaja.

The roads led though some thick traffic and narrow streets as we came near the "Jansi ki Rani" statue and took the appropriate turns to ride past the highway to the State highway that led to our destination. Further inquiries asserted our direction and we rode through the single winding road with the open countryside. It sure felt good and a respite to ride on this road after the continuous highway ride. Soon we spotted our 3 lost riders near a tea stall (Mama Bhanje hotel was the name of the hotel) and synched-up. It was SindkhedRaja (325kms, 6:11pm).

We did have ideas of various routes to Lonar from here, but villagers suggested we taked the book route to Lonar since the other routes could easily mislead us. Some quick cups of tea and stretches later off we were on our way to Lonar. Before this we had to reach the town of Sultanpur and take a right to Lonar. We did want to reach before sunset so that we could, if possible, take a look at the crater at sunset. Here we rode in a single file at consistent speeds as we reached the thinly populated Sultanpur, (372kms, 17:17pm). The sun was setting far in the horizon, as we made quick inquires for the right turn and off we were on our last ~10kms ride for the day. The road got thinner as we took a few twists and turns riding on, I did fantasize spotting the crater in a distance but that was not so. Soon we reached Lonar and took a halt near the ST. busstop as we quickly rode down to a "Krishna Lodge"- a decent looking place bang opposite the St.Bus stand (383kms, 17:30pm).

875/- for the room with an extra bed was a good deal. It had a big bed which could accommodate 5 of us, and 2 bath rooms. What more would you want! With the water being cold, we decided to skip the bath and take a walk around the little town (Dhanya preferred to stay back). All of us attired in the "DaRomans" 'T' and shorts took a walk around the streets of Lonar. The place was full of dust and was crowded. A police van stopped besides us and called Amit and asked him a lot of questions before driving off. The police wanted to know who we were and why we walked with the same T-shirts, when they got to know e were from Pune and rode all the way they were surprised and asked what business we had. They left once they knew we were mere travelers and were here just for an overnight halt by the crater. Soon we visited a Tea stall had some nice hot tea and were back at the rooms. Changed over to better clothes(minus the Daromans haha) and took a walk to a near by hotel for dinner.

We were told by the owners of the lodge to park the vehicles in the interiors of the hotel, there was a good go-down garage where we could park all the vehicles. We did have a nice time getting the bikes through the small door and down the ramp. Soon took a walk to the near by hotel and had some sumptuous food, the waiter was happy to hear we were from Pune. The hit item at this place was roasted Chana and boiled Chana, it was a marvelous we had lots of those and just a few plates of daal kichadi later. It was ~12am or so when we returned back to our lodge (singing giggling and dancing all the way back). Back at the room played a lot not letting people sleep , but called it a night amidst the Roman roars and the squeaks of a rodent.

The day was good and we had ~400kms in our bag. Tomorrow we were to see the crater and later leave for Chikhaldara. The helper at the lodge asked us to visit a water spring where we could have a hot bath.. so all was to be decided the following day.

PlayStation

2009-10-01T21:29:00.005+05:30

Playing games was always my kinda thing. Back in school days I had this handheld video game (it was called dog something), my brother had gifted that to me from Singapore... later in college days bought an Atari TV console. It was simple but addictive, all friends would crash land @home and we would spend hours playing various games. Eventually I was into engineering armed with a computer, and in came computer games. It all started with a game called Hocus Pocus. Later it was Wolfenstien 3d and various other games.

My aunt in Mumbai had a PC since I was in 3rd(an intel 286!) , so had already played some classics like CAT, Packman etc. As years went by, realized the fundamentals behind 3D and game programming. Better processors and optimizations were the norm and Michael Abrash was sorta my God those days :).

Anyways so as time went by got myself a job, and yes the PC upgraded from monochrome to color and eventually over a span of 8 years to better processors and higher speeds. Games like cat, hocus pocus seemed a letdown (graphically ...) in front of likes of Grand Theft Auto 3 etc...

I was still a gamer :).

Xbox 360, Wii and the Playstation series were rising into prominence over the last few years. I always wanted me one of these better (read high end) consoles for gaming. Soon I got married but still had this zest for console/computer games.

Then on 20th September 2009 -it happened. Wify dear gifted me an 80GB Playstation 3 with two Dualshock 3 controllers and two free cult classic games: Uncharted-Drakes fortune and Gran Turismo 5 prologue. It was a wonderful birthday gift. Both these games I loved and would only dream/imagine myself playing hem. Now it is reality.

Barely two weeks since I got this, I'm already done with Uncharted and am in the process of training my folks to ride virtual cars :D.

The PS3 does a lot, it plays a plethora of video file formats , displays images, plays music and also connects to teh internet. And as though that's not it - one can also install Linux onto the PS3!!! Wow! ... err.. it also plays games btw. :)

I always wanted to connect my old computer to the TV so that we could watch various movies and photos off the PC, but now with the PS3- just connect with an external HDD and off you go!

The gaming doors have reopened!

Sculpting an idol

2009-08-23T15:42:00.014+05:30

Ganesh Chaturti is definitely one of my favorite festivals (as indicated in my previous post). With eco-friendliness being the latest rage, and with us opting for an eco idol, I did have a plan springing up my sleeve. Sculpt an idol myself :).

There were times when I would make these little idols out of Wheat flour, my mom used to make different delicacies. It always was a thought I had in the backburn for a long time.

So with the idea discussed back home- the first task was to get some clay. Shaadoo mud (the mud that can bind easily and stay put post drying), everyone we asked did not have that available, so one fine day made a run down to Staples and spotted some paper clay in the children's section. There were various brands and varieties, finally picked myself one of the more sophisticated looking (no BS types) package.

It was a heavy pack with grey paper-clay. Decided to sculpt the idol the next day on Friday, since 'was pretty tired post office. The next day started with me getting my hands dirty at ~8:30am. Tried various techniques but the minimal quantity of clay made this a daunting task- the idol would not be big enough. That's when an idea clicked in mold the clay around something round to create the body and then something simillar for the head. It worked!

Used a glass bowl for the body and stuffed the void with a lot of wet paper, then elongated the body upwards using some card paper- stuffed it further with a lot of paper. Finally used one half of a plastic ball to create the head. Now I had the basic structure ready all covered with clay. It did start looking like a promising Ganapati in the making :).

A few more hours and the crown, trunk and hands and legs were ready. The idol unfortunately did not have a neck ... so it looked like an elephant in a seated position. Looked nice. With this ready, left the idol for drying and pushed off to work. Bought another pack of white paper clay since, I could sense the need for it quiet easily. Back home, just created a simple mouse for the idol and it surprisingly turned out too cute. The idol was still wet, so left the fan on the whole night.

Next day, further dried the idol in the microwave (1 minute each rotation for ~5 times, since there was glass and plastic inside of it :D). Used the clay to further fatten the arms and legs. By now the idol truly started to represent Lord Ganesha. Picked a couple of slate stones lying around in the rubble. Used them to create the base seat. Covered the same with clay. Now used the scissors to carve in some dhoti textures and other little features around the idol. After this used some extra clay to make the ornaments and sculpt a shivaling. Placed all of these on the platform and it looked too cool in grey and white :).

Now came the big challenge- coloring the idol. Everyone agreed that it looked good in its natural grey form, but I wanted to color it and that to in eco-friendly colors. So used kajal for black and it worked wonders for the mouse and shivaling. Tried haldi for yellow/gold but it looked too dull. Finally decided to go off eco and get myself some true colors from the market.

In the evening, we went to get our shadoo ganapti and also purchased some decorations. Back home post my dental appointment, raced off to get some acrylic colors and brushes. Red, Blue, Pink, White, Black, Gold, Brass-Gold were the base colors.

The painting session went all the way till ~10:30 at night, and all had a blast sitting around pouring in their suggestions. All of this with the decorations and preparations for the festival the next day. The idol was ready with a grey body and gold with vaious colors seated on grass :).

It truly was a dream come true.

Shadoo Ganapati ...

2009-08-16T20:52:00.008+05:30

It was that time of the year again. Festivities aloom and the usual gaga gogoo on the streets raging in all blast and vigor. But no! NO no ... doubly no! Not this year.. it was all mellowed down. The city was gripped in one tough situation with the epidemic on the loose... that had all Puneiets behind closed doors, all shopkeepers had their shutters down, the city administration was planning on a total shutdown of the city (City under quarantine!). It was unbelievable, in a matter of a couple of weeks and some blaring media reports the city civic officials were forced to pull up the red flag. Swine Flu had the whole city in its grip.

But it was the "Shravan mahina" and this the season of festivals... lakshmi pooja, gokulashtami, ganesh chaturti etc. etc. Ganesh Chaturti! - the festival that had me and still keeps me smiling on its advent. But this time around, the influenza scare had all the hulla gulla mellowed down.

We planned on buying on buying an Eco-friendly Ganesha idol this time around. Wify and me did some research and finally got to know from Rahul that we could purchase very good "Shadoo Ganapatis"(Ganapati idols made from mud) from near Rastapeth. We decided on visiting the place a week before the festival and place an order for the same, if we like an idol.

The shop was small, but was full of idols. It had both POP(Plaster of Paris) and "shaadoo" idols. The owner directed us inside the shop to a room where he had numerous idols of various shapes and sizes, most of which were made of "shaadoo". Rahul and both of us instantly liked one of the Ganashea's with a Tanaji turban (It was called "Jai Malhaar"). But it was too big so we decided on looking at other smaller idols... These idols looked really wonderful, but most of them were booked. A couple of idols which we liked were gone too.

After some hunting, both of us zeroed in on an idol that was not brightly colored - but had a uniform brownish color. It looked beautiful. We decided to do more research before finalizing on one.

Back at Rahul's house for the second hunt round, this time around we paraded various shops in the Rastapeth area with Rahul's mom. None of the shops had very attractive idols. After much hunting we returned back to our Shop no.1.

In 10 minutes we had ourselves booked the uniformly brownish painted Ganesha idol. We both loved it- it was pleasing and had a wonderful presence. Like Rahul's mom said "You guyz already had your eyes on this one... so none of the rest appealed to you". But these words were going to recoil back , as Rahul was very insistent on getting the "Jai Malhaar" idol.

The next ~1.5 hrs were spent scanning each and every idol in the shop. Every idol looked beautiful, all the brownish idols appealed to me ;). Every time we selected an idol, there would be some doubts and we would again consider the "Jai Malahar". It was tiring, but a lot of fun! The basic issue was the size and the turban on the idol :).

Eventually after a lot of head hunting and help from the shopkeeper Rahul booked his "Jai Malhaar"! It was an all successful shopping spree... all owners were returning back happy.

Took some pics and showed our folks back home... they liked our choice... (It was right sized and did not have the turban ..hahaa ). We would be getting our idol a day before the festival... so 'am really looking forward to this year’s Eco friendly H1N1 mellowed down festival!

Atop at Last...

2009-06-07T12:02:00.012+05:30

Getting back to the fitness regime was looking good, with my bike heading back to the gym and everyone back home making a 5:30am spark, the norm. It was good.

I always had this urge to hike up Sinhagad during weekdays and eventually have it as a norm. Riding daily to office or crossing the mutha over bridges would always have my neck turn around trying to spot the historic twin towered hill in the distance. The next day was a Friday and I knew it had to be done. So as me folks back home got ready for their morning walk, 'zipped off with a backpack and some water. The breeze was chill, it was a good thing I wore my monkeycap. The insects and mosquitoes made sure I squint, as I made my way past the country side and eventually rode to the village of Atkarwadi.

The top of Sinhagad was covered in clouds. The foot-hills were calm as I embarked on the ascent (6:20am). The stone riddled initial path has always been an irritating patch for me and many- and it still is the same. The pace was constant- one of the many things you do as a trekker. The weather was cool, but the constant rhythm got the heartbeats high, let the perspiration loose and the breath heavy. I must confess, 'did slow down a few times to get some nice snaps. But in general the pace was constant. Overtook a villager who was guiding his buffalo up the slopes, soon walked past the half mark. (~6:45am)

The clouds were getting close and the distant valley looked beautiful! Soon overtook a couple more people and continued my ascent along the rock riddled path. I was nearing the top as the final 3 nerve wrecking 'U' paths took a start - these are basically simple paths that go parallel to the face and 'U' turn 3 times as you reach the top. Trust me its really nerve wrecking- knowing u are so close yet so far :).

I teamed myself up with a gentle man atop as the trek concluded (7:05am) - 45 mins 6seconds! Unbelievable- its almost a year since my last trek. It felt good to have such good timing. I was soaked wet in sweat and it felt wonderful! Being in clouds and wonderful views of the fogged valley below were stupendous. A few clicks, a quick breather and off I was on my way down. Enroute met many people from some "Environmental" organization hiking up - some hiked good while some were bad, but it felt good to see so many hike up despite their tiredness and not giving up. In about 35mins I was down(7:50am) and astride my bike and zipped back sqinting my eyes back home. (8:15am).

Mt. Baner

2009-05-29T23:22:00.012+05:30

The sun was beating down and so were our spirits. We needed some shade some cool some fun. It happened, the clouds went berserk and the blue sky cast grey. The weather was beautiful and the usual timeout at our local tapri did not work the magic. The little hillock stood sweet in the cool shade and we knew what was needed- a little small hike up the Tekdi, affectionately called "Mt. Baner".

Piyush, Sanjay Mandar and myself took the usual road to the base of the hill. This time around, I wanted them to experience the steeper way up. So we took it. Not having exercised for days the climb did mandate a couple of halts. But the tiredness really did not matter as much, since the dark clouds and chill breeze kept the spirits high. Soon we were atop the hill and then made a quick ascent to the little hillock atop to the mandir (temple).

The views were stupendous. A dark cloud the size of Pune city above us, broken off along the periphery lashing water at the distance. The ranges holding Sinhagad and Torna were hidden far back. A quick breather and off we got with the property and money talk.. blah blah blah. The consistent breeze and freshness in the air kept our spirits high, soon Piyush noticed the incoming rain and that had us take a quick descent.

This time around we took the simple route (South face as we call it :D ). Lots of talks and laughs and down we were contemplating for a wadapaav and some tea. Had a lot of it Rohit wadewalle before making a dash back to the little 4x3 pen.

A couple of days later Amit did the magic talk and off we dash-ed to Mt. Baner. It was a quick quick ascent (steep route) and within the blink of an eye we were standing next to the little mandir. All was the same except the weather. It was not cool and cloudy it was wonderful clear skies with the fresh breeze.

Dusk was soon to fall and we decided to take a path that led to the hillock in the distance. Walked some distance and noticed that many trees had been planted along the hillside. Go Green was doing some awesome work atop these gentle slopes. Soon we stopped partway and decided to take in the beautiful golden sun as it set far behind the mountains. Amit pointed out to various buildings and upcoming projects down in the valley and quoted their prices... the market is improving or so he said. Well we loved the view, and we enjoyed it. The distant views of Balewadi Hinjewadi to Sus and many other areas were simply beautiful. Pune has grown.. its huge.

The atmosphere turned golden as the huge orange ball lost itself behind the mountain. We had to head back before dark. This time we descended the steep route and soon were at the base and trotted back to office for fresh snacks.

The tekdi/Mt.Baner is a wonderful gym for nature enthusiasts. Like Amit put it "muscles wagere kahi nahi re.. stamina ahe stamina... biceps wallyana race lavayla saang aplya barober ani kasse phattete bag tyanchi ... " before narrating a story how he easily trotted off ahead against a fit muscle man to the top of Mt. Baner!

99

2009-05-16T20:10:00.013+05:30

Yesterday for reasons ... 1) being a friday 2) long time since we had seen anything new on the movie scene 3) my wife being a movie buff herself 4) no new movies being released in a long time and 5) a new comical '99' was slated for release on that day- the tickets were booked at premium levels starting 8:31pm at the square with a big E.

Knowing not what to expect and run with no expectations is the best way to enjoy the onslaught is what I was taught by one of my good friends some donkey years ago. It proved wonderful! The movie got us in splits at regular intervals... story. Ummm... no not a big deal really, but execution and comedy, oh yess a lot of it! We thoroughly enjoyed every premium level of that ticket.

Movie done with popcorns and tasteless coffee, decided to ride down to some restaurant at ~11 in the night. Lots of hunting later landed at "Punjabi Tadka" near Chandni Chowk. An empty restaurant with wonderful ambiance and khatiya/indian-baithak style seating with the typical mindblowing makke-di-rotii te sarsoon da saag with mega sized chaanch te lassi was perfect for ending the night.... but no so with the already full-ourselves. Forcing the grub down was a fun event in itself with the shadow of sleep looming low over our heads. ~12:15am we full-bellied-selves decide to call it a night.

An annn... not so soon. I keep getting my urges as wify dear stated she was not feeling too sleepy. So decided to ride down all the way to Khadakwasala dam at 1am :). Wonderful. The ride was enough to let the sleep gods get the better of us as we lazily rode past the dam and just gave it a a few hevy glances as we rode back home.

Day ended the next morning - was it 2am? What did we take away from the movie... "Dimple...."

Konkan Bike Trail

2008-12-28T22:00:00.008+05:30

Three of us had been on an amazing Bike ride that lasted over 1200kms. The ride along the coast of Konkan from South(Vengurla) to North(Revas). Nachiket(Nachi) on his Red Bullet Thunderbird, Suryakant(Bandya) on his Black Bullet Thunderbird and Me (Vinod/Vindy) on my Black HeroHonda CBZ were on this trip that lasted for 5 days (23rd December '08 to 27th December '08) and was a ride to cherish for the rest of our lives.

We rode through all kinds of road -good and bad alike. Many ferry crossings to get to the other side of the creeks. Sunny beaches to our sights with the blue skies to the horizon, with the cool shades at the coastal village and the barren land across unknown stretches, with the black tarmac varying in texture through the kilometers of well built roads to the dust patches across unknown paths. The ride was simply fabulous.

The following 5 blog articles let you ride alongside, and live the adventure
Day1 : Pune->Vengurla [1] ( ~401kms)
Day2 : Vengurla->Ratnagiri [1] (~233kms)
Day3 : Ratnagiri->Harihareshwar (~193kms)
Day4 : HArihareshwar->Nagaon (~170kms)
Day5 : Nagaon->Revas->Pune (~200kms)

Enjoy the photographs from the ride
Vindy's cam
Bandya's cam
Nachiket's version of the story

Konkan Bike Trail (Day 5 of 5)

2008-12-27T22:00:00.011+05:30

Day 5:

The day started as early as 7am or so. We had decided the previous night to finally do what one does in Konkan- get wet in the sea! It was a very cold morning, Nachi and me took a stroll outside, where we noticed all the vehicles parked were soaking wet -they were covered in dew. It was extremely chill, but walking around in shorts in that chill had a different feel to itself. We took a look around the wadi surroundings as we strolled through the garden full of 'supari', coconut trees and various plans. At the far end there was the 'otha' where we were told we could take bath in case we wanted chill water. The water was so cold, there was vapor rising off it. As we spoke our breath condensed to the cold surroundings. It felt refreshing :).

We kept things very slow- since we knew the day would not be packed. Had ample breakfast of amazing kandhe pohe and upith and loads and loads of tea. Roughly by 8:30 or so we departed for the beach. Here we notice some of our old friends - the 'langoors', just that they were bigger- all perched atop another wadi. We took our path to the beach through the pine trees. The beach was not crowded, but people were coming in. We picked a patch away from some guyz playing cricket. Got to our trunks and bang we made a dash for the waters. We just stood in waist high water gazing into infinity, then we got on to all sorts of kid games, pushing and playing around in the chill waters. The water on the surface was warm but at lower levels it was very cold. Splashing mud at each other and also regaining our lost swimming talent- it ws fun. We were playing like little kids. Soon the beach started housing many people, also the typical beach toys made their presence- 'tangas', parasailing, water scooter etc. By about 9:30 or so we reluctantly decided to get back to the the wadi. We wished we could linger around for more time, but we had to go.

The little bazaar now had all its shops open, here we had some routine tea followed by a very weird fruit you get only at coastal areas -"Tadgola". It looks like a little coconut, but once you cut it - inside lie 3 soft pulpy fruits(they look like plasma-ice ). We gave it a try - and it tasted pretty good. Back at the wadi, we decided to have a hot water bath. So Mr. Nandu setup a traditional method to heat water - a huge earthen pot full of water was placed atop a furnace. Then one by one we went on to get fresh -Bandya, me, Nachi in that order. In the free time, Bandya had a wonderful time talking to Mr. Nandu who shared all sorts of things. He showed us around the wadi and also explained what all fruits and flowers grew there. It was fun. His son too had been on a mega cycling expedition once, and he was very happy and probably felt pride in having us -bikers- as his guests. Alas we had to bid farewell and at 11:30am we bid him and Nagaon farewell.

We retraced our path though the mud path, via the road to the 'T' junction and then a left towards Alibaugh. The roads were crowded with vehicles, but being on a bike has its own share of advantages, we could sneak though the jam and get ahead. The road went on to meet Alibaugh. Alibaugh looked like a plain big city- I really felt relieved we did not stay here, since it looked like any other city! We took some directions and were on the road that led to Mandwa.

The road was straight - simply straight. It was wide and was lined with huge trees. This patch simply went straight, we could see various little towns zip by. The kilometer countdown for Mandwa fell to zero and it was to the left off the main road, but Bandya kept riding. Nachi and me got furious, Nachi got on some call with Ankush. I was confused and zipped ahead and got Bandya back to Mandwa phata. There he explained, it makes sense to get to a place called 'Revas' since that was the actual north tip for the konkan coastal path, a quick decision was made and we were on our way to Revas. The road simply went straight on. Soon the tree canopy was lost and the road got thin, to the left we could see the barren marsh land end into the sea and to the right was a another patch of barren land behind a fence.

The road ended, and we were at Revas. There were many vehicles parked here, also a couple of police vans. We were not sure where we were, sine there was nothing more than a building like structure ahead of us that led to a port. Well that's when we learnt- Revas was nothing more than a port- the village, which possibly small, lay somewhere behind (12:30pm , 1034.6kms). Here we sipped on some tea at a local store and made our way to the port, bought some typical konkani stuff like amba barfis and some chikkis. The path ahead was concrete and had a steel divider in between. It went straight ahead a long distance and turned left to a covered waiting area and opened ahead to the actual port. Far on the other side of the sea lay Bombay/ Mumbai.

We took the hike and reached the edge of the port. Many vehicles and people were waiting here to board for Mumbai. There was thick and a very visible grayish-brown dust layer on the other side- POLLUTION. The awful truth of where we live and what we breath could be seen crystal clear from here. Here we discussed a lot on pollution etc, took a last long eyeful of the ocean before making our departure. Had some neera at one of the stalls before getting back on our steeds.(~1pm)

From here we took the road to a point where the fencing ended and then a left to get to Pune via Pen. This section of the road was amazing, as in it went along side various hills and little villages. There was also a cricket match on at one of bigger villages -it was a sight to watch. Much of this section we had varying speeds. There seem to be many factories springing along these stretches, especially a prominent feature is a huge chimney jutting right atop a hill. Soon the little road got onto NH17 and we were on our way to Pen. It was fun riding on this stretch of NH17, especially some of the road bends were amazing - there was a point I took such a lean mean my shoes scrapped the tarmac. The roads were just too good- most of this section it was Bandya way ahead followed by me then Nachi. We passed though Pen(I am just guessing since it was a big town) at ~1:30pm (1072.3kms). There was a point at 1082.7kms when we eyed the sign board "Pune- 100kms" We rode with our thumbs up at this point. The road went on ahead and got ugly after we took a right.

The road was relentless, it simply did not give way- too bad. We were in Khopoli, The huge factories made their presence all around us. Soon the bad roads were a thing of the past as we rode on a well divided road and spotted the much familiar sign "Expressway :Pune right :Mumbai left". Well being bikers we inquired and somehow ended up taking a left and rode straight on though some town. Soon we took a right and turned around, the road eventually zigzagged uphill and took a huge curvature as we entered the Expressway (A section of the expressway near Lonavala is open for all sorts of vehicles). We zipped and zipped really hard. But it was of no avail , as the cars sped comfortably past us :). Riding on concrete sucks! But at traffic jams , it was a breeze to serpent though the maze of trucks. We regrouped near the Lonavala exit where the expressway patch for us bikers came to an end (2:35pm, 1121.9kms).

We descended to Lonavala. There were many hotels around, but none of them seemed to be safe enough to park our bikes. The hill station was crowded as usual, we decided to get off Lonavala and have lunch at some dhaba along NH4. So it was bye-bye Lonavala. The ride got us onto the old Pune-Mumbai highway. The expressway carpeted along side us to the right in a distance. It was a pleasure zipping along this stretch, the old Pune-Mumbai NH4 highway is amazing to say the least. Near around Malavli we spotted one Sheetal dhaba and detoured off for lunch (2:52pm, 1131.6kms). This place was huge and not a dhaba in any sense. The menu was expensive, a simple Veg-Handi was for ~200/- , we could have had 3 amazing konkani thalli for far less, around konkan, for that kinda price tag! None-the-less we ordered our feast- a usual roti daal and subji. Food was ok- nothing great. The best part about this place, the forts of Lohagad,Visapur and the hill of Batyashree made a massive presence on the other side of the highway.

Finally we departed at ~3:50pm and decided on regrouping directly at Sinhagad phata. Bandya and me needed to fuel in, but still we decided not to wait for each other. So from this point we rode on our own- I broke loose. The fuel indicator dipped low, but still I knew in the wost case it could reach Sinhagad phata on a reserve tap. The highway went straight along sections and took amazing wide twists at others, also many ups and downs along the twists. Soon I lost Nachi and Bandya to higher speeds. I was on my own to the road, all the fuel pumps were closed on my side of the highway. Somewhere near Kanhe I decided to take 'U' to the other side to fuel in (4:05pm, 1147.9kms). Took a 'U' back to my side and zipped on, eventually passed though Talegaon. One has to be careful along these stretches, as many locals carelessly cross roads. Nonetheless, soon spotted the massive Ganapati idol alongside the highway and finally took a right at DehuRoad phata.

Here I noticed Bandya riding extremely slow and relaxed chugging along. Well I was on a speed run so simply zipped past him.The roads caught more traffic, and finally I was in a jam and it got frustrating to speed through the mess. Finally at some point past Hinjewadi, trailed Naachi who too was chugging at ~50kmph. So slowly in some time we stopped and finally in about 5 minutes Bandya teamed in. We were at Sinhagad Phata (4:40 pm, 1194 kms). Sipped on some tea at a "Hotel Durga". We recollected some memories of the past few daysbut were pretty tired at the same time. Bid our final goodbyes as Bandya took the highway to get home while Nachi and me took the Sinhagad road. The traffic was heavy and the familiar pollution made its grand presence felt again. At Rajaram bridge Nachi departed off for home, while I rode straight on.

It was 5:09pm when I parked my vehicle and the odo read 1200.2 kms. Yippie we hit the 1200 mark! Had a warm shower and shared the pictures from the ride with Dad and Mom before crashing to bed early. The coastal ride lingered through my dreams as I sped through dreamland taking turns rapping with a langoor seated pillion.. "aHa.. BanKot" :).

Konkan Bike Trail (Day 4 of 5)

2008-12-26T22:00:00.018+05:30

Day 4

The day started pretty loose, with us catching the start of day at roughly 8am or so. Slowly we lazed off the slumber and were chatting at the corridor, here we befriended our neighbors. They too were on a "Coastal Ride" by their car North-South, so that sure did instill a lot of respect for our new-found friends, also helped them with all sorts of directions and cautions they need to take on their "drive" down. Cleaning up the bikes and hogging on amazing pohe, sheera and tea later we took a shower and decided to hike upto sunset point (we did want to see this Bandya's much hyped sunset point!).

So by ~9:45 we were on our our way to the temple. The road and the mandir alley was full of devotees, tourists and shopkeepers alike. Soon we waded our path through the crowd and eventually were on our way up a fleet of steps. A small path later we were climbing up a small footpath through thick bushes leading to to the top of a hill. Once up, we were blessed with an amazing sight. Water on all three sides and just enough ground for say some 5 people. Here we perched ourselves on a rock and sunk in the portrait that nature drew for us. From here we could see some people walking on the rocky beach far below, we were very fortunate to spot many dolphins!

Some snaps, lots of talk and enough silence to take in the calm later we backtracked our way down the hill, then steps off the mandir and seated ourselves at a little tea store for a cup of hot tea and wada paav :).

It was roughly 10:30am (832.6 kms) when we were astride our steeds thumping off the quint village of Harihareshwar. The roads from here took us over familiar terrain with the untouched beaches our left and wild road besides it. The road would go over twisting over and away from the hills at regular intervals giving us some spectacular sights of the distant beaches. I would not call the roads good- they were 30kmph or less roads. Soon we passed through Sriwardhan, but decided to give it a pass. Enroute we passed by many fishing colonies and could spot hoards of fishing boats and 'kolis' in the distance, the stench of fish was unbearable at certain points of the ride- we did get used to it. Soon at one point Nachiket stopped so did I- Bandya was missing. The last I'd seen him wa s taking some pictures of the distant fishing settlements.

Nachi decided to backtrack and hunt for Bandya as I stay put taking pictures of some playful langoors (11:30am, 866.7kms). In less than say 10mins or more both came thumping in- we were in no mood to know why Bandya was delayed and gave his smile a pass :). Soon we rode to Diveagar and followed Bandya's lead to take a right towards Borli (We really did not want to do that, since we thought of riding straight onto Dighi). But still we went on Borli and halted for te a yet again missing Bandya, who soon teamed in for tea. The hotel owner was probably a popular figure as he seemed to know everyone who visited his shop, also he was a helpful chap- gave us good directions to get to Dighi and also said that the decision to ride via Borli was good since the direct link through Diveagar was a very bad patch of road (kudos Bandya). Here we learnt that Bandya had bought a 'Halwa' fish from the kolhi's and a bargaining session for the right price had made me wait with the langoors :).

So Dighi (a boat ride to Agardanda/Rajapuri) was our next destination which was some 15kms away. The road went through the city center of Borli, so thick traffic and soon we were on smooth tarmac. The speeds obviously took a needle up. The road for the most part had some dry farms on both sides separated by bush fencing. We did stop for our routine leak, and when we left Bandy a sped off and his priced fish dropped off his saddle bag. Nachi and me tucked in the parcel and decided to trick Bandya over the "loss" of his fish. Now we had some fun to look forward to. Soon the roads got smoother and got amazing as it started to twist and twine through the hills. The road was just too good, it started taking a descent from the hills and went down straight to the distant town of Dighi. We could see the creek and the landmass on the other side from this distance.

Dighi was like any other coastal town, just that it was too crowded with tourists and school children (on a picnic) who were here either to take a boat or just got off it. A few inquiries got us winding through the very narrow streets and we eventually got to the jetty only to learn that the next earliest boat was at 2pm. (12:25pm, 884.9kms). Dejected- yes we were. The sun was beating down on us and skipping the boat meant we had to ride around the creek via Mahasala (truly coastal though, haha...) to Agardanda/Rajapuri which would add ~40-50kms. Decision was made- took a few snaps and off we were.

Retraced the road via the hill and smooth tarmac. This is when "lady luck" danced her way off our back. We were at ~80kmph, I was trailing Bandya and he had just narrowly missed a truck in the opposite direction, Nachi was trailing us way back at 'sane' speeds. At a bend to the right a motorcyclist was headed straight for me on the wrong side, nothing could be done to avert an accident (we banged along along our sides). I stopped within 20 meters of the crash and could still see plastic fragments flying and bouncing off the road, the other guy scared to his guts zipped away as I ran after him yelling. A quick inspection revealed nothing had broken off my vehicle, all plastic was his :). Cleaned the road of the plastic mess as the 3 of us regrouped. My foot peg had taken a bad hit and the guard rail and side fibre were bent. Nothing serious. Caution advices from Nachi -later we rode on.

The ghat road came to an end and we saw the Mahasala board asking us to take a left. So off were were to our next new destination- Mahsala. Mahsala is sort of a central town, for access to the coastal destination on the Murud and Diveagar sides of the creek, when riding down from NH-17. We were expecting crowds there. The roads were pretty much the same with fields and distant hills to the right and fields ending up to the water bodies in the distance to the left. The road did get narrow and wide at regular intervals and took a mood of of its own as it got flavors of bad and g ood in patches. Passing through various little towns and hills we were at Mahsala (1pm 911.1kms). The town was bustling with life- vehicles, humans ,cattle, dogs etc. all seemed to have emerged off nowhere.

From Mahasala we took an acute left (almost a 'U') and went on straight aiming for Agardanda. The roads were no w in a consistent bad shape- very bumpy- bad-on-ass roads. The sights were no different just that the roads seemed to be longer. The roads went up and down over the non-rhythmic bumps mandating Bandya and me to stand at regular intervals like rockstars on a performance- Nachi was undeterred and sat like a zombie bumping a consistent slow speeds. His ass had had enough, and by now he was complaining - which meant it was BAD. We had no option but to carry on. Soon we rode past Mandad, quick directions stated we go still ahead on the bumpy roads. Many an occasion I would speed off ahead and wait for the bullets to make an appearence- Bandya decided to ride slow with Nachi.

Soon we rode by Agardanda and now were nearing Murud riding past vast barren fields and horticulture ponds. Finally the familiar si ghts of island fort of Janjira made its grand appearance as wer e we rode over the hill that presented us with some amazing sights of the ocean. The roads had gotten worse by now. Soon we took a left and got down via Rajapuri and eventually though the thin Kolhi settlements and again up via the hill side then zig zagging down the turns down-hill and eventually though the bazaar to Murud.

The famous "Patil Jevanalay" was our destination for lunch - this place was packed with tourists. (2:30pm, 956.9kms) All tables were full and many tourists were lazing around in the compound and many other were feasting over nit-bits from the cart vendors. The wait here did let us relax and freshen us up. The crowds showed no signs of retreat, we decided to pick on some other hotel. Quick inquiries led us to a nearby "Hotel Vinayak". Here we relaxed and leisurely munche d over our plates, the location of this hotel was good -bang along the beach. Food was pretty ok- nothing great -simple. The traffic snarls with the weekend crowds were a sight not to be missed. Post lunch Nachi decided to change over to shorts and ride the remaining distance in shorts- The rashes were very bad and the lack of airflow through denim only made matters worse. We did wait a long time in Murud, and also took some anti-rash treatment advise from the hotel owner.

By 4pm we were ready to leave- 2 attired as riders and 1 as a weekender in shorts. The road from Murud to Alibaugh is very good and we knew the bumps were to be a thing of the past. We were correct. The road went straight on, later twisting up hill and eventually down consistently keeping the ocean to our left. At one spot we took a halt for some pictures, the sights were simply too good. The road had its own share of jeeps stuffed with weekenders. Eventually we rode down the bridge near Revdanda, past which we were under the thick canopy of trees as the smooth roads led via the town of Revdanda, very soon we were at Chaul. At Chaul naka, Nachi decided to visit a temple there (his village temple) as Bandya and me took a break at a local tea store near Chaul-naka. (5:05pm, 991.6kms). In roughly 20mins Nachi joined us and shared an incident of some local garland sellers where one of them saved him from a jinx-curse :D. Here we made up our minds to check out for rooms at Nagaon itself (Nachi's village ..haha).

Riding though the thin road we soon arrived at a 'T' junction from where we took a left to get to the Nagaon village. The road was long and was lined with all sorts of hotels and shops. We decided to get till the end of the road and start hunting for hotels bottom up.

The road ended at the beach as the orange ball was settin g behind a canopy of palm trees. The place was full of parked vehicles (5:50pm, 1000.9kms). Hotel-man went about his mission to get us a room, while two of us relished on some gola and a local juice at a cart. We had to wait for long as we could see Bandya go from place to place and disappear. Soon he came in and said there were 2 options 1. A 'Wadi' (traditional house with a room and external toilet) and 2. Expensive hotel. We decided to check option 1. As we rode behind Bandya, he gave some elderly guy a lift. The path went through a backyard sorts and though very dense well planted trees and bang we were next to a 'Wadi'.

The old man's name was Mr. Nandu Apte and he was a very jovial and a friendly person. He showed us our room and it did have an attached toilet. Here we learnt that this was some other 'Wadi' we were at (Bandya gave us a detailed explanation later), but nonetheless it was excellent. We had our customary cups of tea. The room was neat - A double bed and and extra thick mattress. The huge quadrangle outside the room had a typical traditional homely setting complete with a swing. Here the 'Halwa' fish secet came to play as Bandya got totally dejected when he learnt- the fish went missing.(This we played with him before we reached Murud). So when our host asked us about dinner and Nachi said "what if we gave our own fish to cook", Bandya's eyes lit up and LO we revealed the black ice stuffed packet to him. Here we all had a hearty laugh. Bandya played like a kid, insane, with the fish. Soon he and Mr. Apte rode down to the cook's house who was to prepare dinner for us.

A quick freshen up later the 3 of us decided to walk down to the beach but be back by 9pm (dinner time). In shorts and under the stars we walked down the path though the over grown grass towards the shacks and carts near the beach. The drunks decided to get some bottles, so we took a hike along the road and get some from the 'special' store. A bit of decision making later we bought the brew and walked down to the beach. Soon we got through the pine trees and onto the beach. A bit of hunting later, we found ourselves a quiet and open spot where put ourselves to rest. Talking all sorts of things and admiring the distant constellations and the beautiful reflection of Venus over the ocean we started wading our discussion though our last 4 days. We recollected all sorts of memories - the one common thing we liked and shared was the extremely hospitable nature of the konkan village people. It was simply a different experience interacting with the locals; soft and every ready to lend a helping hand right from the family at Vengurla who let us a room to the locals who lent an unconditional hand of help for loading the bikes onto the boat to the smiling face of Mr. Apte. So many people to mention and words dont do justice.

Well that's how we got philosophical. Soon we spotted a bunch of high intensity torch lights in a distance and they were coming towards us. Fearing they might be the law, we quickly stuffed the bottles and snacks into the packets only to discover they were a bunch of local kids hunting for abondened bottles. All of us had a hearty laugh over the incident, the kids were in splits especially one who kept repeating "Kaka ghabarle... Police ale tar ghabarayeche nahi ..sarrr zada maghe paloon zayeche... Pan kaka ghabarle haaha" ("Uncle got scared... if the cops come then don't fear simply run behind the trees... but uncle got scared"). This unsettled Nachi and he snapped "ok guyz go away and shut those darn torches, these scared uncles will give you the bottles once they are empty". And then they left and we got back to where were ... wandering thoughts from one place to another. It was nearing 9pm and the bottles were empty so we took the track back off the sands to our 'Wadi'.

On the way back, handed over the bottles to the kids :) and the drunk went back to the shop to get more brew. Me and drunk2 returned and set our dining table outside the room in the spacious surroundings. Our host too liked the idea and presented the grand dinner to us before. Nachi arrived with another set of bottles as we got down much on the food. The dinner was amazing- I really cannot comment about the 'Halwa' fish(me a Veggy) but Bandya,Nachi did say it was delicious so did a cat who enjoyed the served fish haha. The lights went off partway for sometime and our host instantly came out to present us a lantern. The sight was amazing, the star ceiling was something we had not seen in a long time. Soon dinner was done and we tidied back everything into the room, as the lights came back.

We spent some time seated in the cold outside (the coolest in 4 days- our teeth were rattling). Had a lot of fun mimicking 'dakkus' 'puhpa bhabhi' 'batman' etc with a blanket each and pulling each others leg. Eventually we retired to our beds still playing like crazy .. slowly the day ended, maybe after 1am.

For next day too we decided to leave late as our destination was to be Mandwa and later return to Pune via Pen. It was hard to imagine our ride was coming to an end, none of us wanted it to end- but good things too have an ending and tomorrow was the day for the same.

Konkan Bike Trail (Day 3 of 5)

2008-12-25T22:00:00.026+05:30

Day3:
I cant really say the day started, we were awake all night clapping the bugs away. Nachi woke up with a hood-ed sweatshirt - he said he got that on mid night to keep the buzz away. It was as early as 5:30am, we took a quick walk down to the ST stand in the wee hours for an amazing hot cup of tea. Back at the room we freshened up and were down to our bikes for the next days ride by around 7am. We had breakfast at a nearby restaurant- tea,pohe and puri kurma. Perfect, also witnessed an early morning minor skid accident.

The bikes roared back to life as we took quick directions for our ride to Ganapatiule via Nevare. This was an internal road that led through the heart of the city then went through the hills. Soon we rode off the city and were riding through a forest. At one point we were pretty confused at a turn and a local confirmed that the road to the left went over a new bridge and to Ganapatiule. Soon the hills were left behind and we came over a huge bridge- wonderful sights with the chill and the morning sun made this a perfect weather to ride. Once on the other side the road twisted and twined and soon we were on one of the most beautiful stretches we had ever seen on this coastal ride. The road went around a hill with the cliff dropping off to the left and the ocean beyond. The road was smooth tarmac and had grills along the cliff side (it sure did resemble "Route 1" for a minute). There was a beach far below and and it looked beautiful, alas we had a long day ahead. Took a halt and many pictures at this spot before we rode on.
The road curved along , led through a village and eventually we were on the main road that led to Ganapatipule to the left. This road was smooth and our speeds shit up. Soon were approached the mandir. Made some quick inquiries before we rode inside "No Entry" to park our vehicles next to line of little shops and hotels. (8:45am 664kms). We had an amazing breakfast (at a hotel Samrat )of wada usal, Nachi's recommendation and of course loads of tea. A few snaps and off we were to our next destination -Jaigad. (9am)

We backtracked our route a couple of kilometers then took a left for Jaigad. The road soon lost the luster but was still pretty good. We could see the distant cliff for Jaigad getting closer and rode over a plateau for that cliff. Here we took a halt at a cross road and asked locals for directions to the Jaigad jetty (and also about a "Rai Bhatkar" bridge to skip the jetty) and all answers were pretty confusing. We decided to visit the fort first. There is some power plant that has come up at this place with 2 huge chimney and defaces this place to all its might.

The road ended at a fence which had the fort of Jaiad (9:45am, 684.5kms). There was a police station to the left. Here we made inquiries with a person (possibly a cop) about the jetty and bridge. He gave us precise detailed information for our next leg, also said that we should go to the Jaigad jetty and not Jambhari since the latter had smaller boats. We paid Jaigad fort a quick visit , and found it to be no different from Vijaydurgh except that this was in a more sorry state. At about 10am our engines roared back life, we took a quick left from the cross road to the jetty. The road went twisting for sometime then eventually we came to a huge port. Quick inquiries revealed -the next boat was scheduled at 12pm. A local was offering us a ride to the other side at 100/- a bike (normal cost was 75/-). Our futile bargaining skills led us nowhere, but the local was kind enough to give us honest opinions about the bridge which was some 20kms away. Eventually we gave in for the boat-ride and parked our vehicles at the ramp.

The boat this time was a pretty big - looked like a mini house boat. The boat parked itself next to the ramp and then there was a repetition of the lift-bike load-bike saga. Soon all were mounted and our boat blasted to life. Out boatman was a young lad in his 20s with some 7-8 friends of the same age. The ride was pretty good and lasted a long time, in a few minutes we rode along side a bank and went further in towards the bank of Tawsal (Tausala) village. Dolphins too made an appearance every now and then. Once on the other side the boat parked itself next to some steps (low tide prevented us from unloading at the ramp) and then we had a saga of lifting the bikes off-boat then push them some distance then lower them to the ramp side and eventually to a local's little shack (11am 686.4kms).

Here we took a long break recouping from the stress activity and enjoyed an amazing glass of Kokam sharbat followed by tea. The place was tranquil with calm quiet waters and not a soul or any sort of pollution in sight. The local's son (a journalist) spent some time chatting with us, and shared all sorts of information about the area and also insisted we do let people know about this place. He pointed out the laid-back attitude of these locals some of whom from neighboring villagers sold their land to people from the city for a low cost. He had a spark and vision in him to do so much for his village (tourism centric and educational centric ideas) and said that no one from his village will or would sell land. The talk was interesting and he and his family particularly liked our idea of a bike ride along the coast. Well at about 11:30am we took quick directions before bidding them goodbye.

The road went trough trees and eventually rode by the waters. It went twisting leading to the usual breaks of open land at intervals. We soon rode past Velneshwar and Hedvi. Somehow I totally missed our path through these places, maybe I was too engrossed to the wonderfull surroundings and innocent looks on so many faces. The looks, as Nachi later pointed out, were pretty heartening- the kids saw their dreams go past them, the old folks saw what they could never do ride past , the middle aged people simply let the bike go past. None-the-less we eventually got down to Guhagar and here we had our next activity -visit the temple. (12:35pm 719.1kms).

Shree Vyadeshwar Devasthan. Here Nachi and me paid the temple a visit while Bandya decided to guard our bags. He sat near a little shop and had a nice time talking with the shop owner. The temple was pretty neat and tidy with a throng of devotees. The main shivaling was housed inside a hall and further down in a room with a huge angled mirror on top giving us devotees outside a good view. The arthi was to start soon, so Naci quickly got his archana done. Eventually we were out chatting with the shop owner, his wife asked us to visit a Durga temple down the road. We did nod but knew we wouldn't (press of time!) (1:00pm). Our next destination was Dhopave to get a ferry to the other side -Dabhol.

The road went uphill and we passed a point where we spotted a board to the Durga mandir. The road went up down and around little forested hills. Soon we came to a point where it got pretty confusing as to where the road for the jetty was. None the less we picked the right path and were on our way via little roads with the distant ugly sight of the power plant -Enron. The road got bad and our speeds fell.

We took a left and then a steep decline and further ahead the jetty was to the right (1:30pm, 733.6kms) . The Jetty was big and there were cars waiting. This was a ferry ride, where the boat could take in trucks as well. The person at the ticket counter informed us the boat would arrive in 20mins. So we sat near a local shop and had loads of wafers, tea and cold drinks. Sitting here, the 3 of us started rapping some words. Nachi suggested I do it in Marathi and so it came "Bankot Rap" it went "Maharaj ale eke kaali, jinkale te Vijaydurgi, nantar ale teen maharathi , hote te punyahooni , tyatla ek hota Vindiii, hota Bandya ani Nachiii.. Bankot.. aha Banko". From that day on anything we did or had to discuss was always part of Bankot rap :).

Our ferry arrived and many pictures later we rode straight into the launch. The boat was packed with vehicles. In no time the launch took off and headed for the other side. People were taking pictures and videos here - obviously travelers headed for Dapoli. Once at the other side we rode off the boat and decided on or next plan of action.(2:10pm). I stressed on the idea of riding via Ladgar to Dapoli- staying true to the virtue of a coastal ride, but possibly the tiredness made them think otherwise, some quick inquiries later we decided on taking the road via Ladgar. The road went uphill and continued straight. At a pont we came at a 'T' junction and some quick inquiries later were advised to take a left. The road got narrow and carried on endlessly. The fuel indicator was raging very low for my steed and that coupled with the hot sun made me enjoy this leg a little less. We arrived at a village, a right from there got us via Borondi which presented us some beautiful views of the beach. There were various villas here and many high end sedans parked as well. Riding past Ladgar the road led away from the coast and got us to a highway. We were at Dapoli. So effectively we made a 'U' detour off Dapoli highway and were back. Some quick inquiries and waiting for Bandya later we rode into the "hillstation". This place was packed with tourists. Many hotels and vacationers were loitering around. Here we filled up gas at a fuel station and eventually a bit of hunting later crashed at a "Hotel Vrundhavan" with Veg thalli on the menu. (3:10pm , 765.2kms).

Here we took a long break. It was 4pmby the time we departed and headed to Anjarla. The road was straight and was to be good tarmac as said by locals. And so it was, the road led off Dapoli and went down straight to the coast. Then on we were riding bang alongside the coast. An amazing sight and experience- untouched and kilometers of beach to the left and the road along side it. Here we took a few halts for some snappy sessions. Harne fort was visible in a distance. Soon roads lost their look and started misbehaving with torn tar here and there. The views of the beaches from here were amazing, low tides led to the formation of wonderful little lagoons. Eventually we rode through Harne and were now headed for Kelshi where road conditions deteriorated. Eventually we rode through Kelshi. The village was quiant but its roads were better left unmentioned- pathetic.Moving ahead roads got even worse. Nachi and Bandya by now were lagging far behind. I was riding alone- force to ride standing on most occasions. I mean it was a torture on the lower side. Soon we regrouped and carried ahead at a very slow pace. The roads became really bad in patches- to a point that the faithful Vijaydurgh-Jaitapur patch seemed better. Our speeds were ~20kmph. A cyclist- all attired- was pushing his bike in the opposite direction, I did want to have a chat with him, but looking at our condition and the setting sun, decided not to. The patch soon took a right and let up a very very ugly stretch uphill. This was unforgiving, relentless torture. But every bad thing has an end, and it came. Out of nowhere the path suddenly transformed to smooth tarmac, we could ride at better speeds down the road now.

The Bagmandala creek was now visible in a distance. The roads twisted downhill and eventually defaced itself. Spotting a ferry-board we took a bend to the left that went past a village. Then the same board reappeared and pointed right, this was a steep drop down to that same village! The road straight ahead led to Bankot. So I took the lead here and dropped down to the right for making inquiries. The village was deserted and I had no one to ask directions, then saw a kid playing in the quadrangle of a house. An elderly woman there was very pleased to see me and confirmed the direction to the Jetty but insisted I stay for some time and talk. But it was getting late with the sun setting fast so I pleaded my way out. Nachi and Bandya came thudding in shouting abuses -why I did not return back to confirm the directions, and had a good laugh over the scene I had to go through.

The road led to the jetty, which had a long path leading into the water where the ramp and ticket booking station was. We could spot the Bankot jetty at a distance in the golden dusk, this was "Vishwasa Jetty"(6:15pm ,826.4kms). Had some tea a local tea shack. The ferry ride was no different from the previous, all we needed to do was ride right in. The ride went through the dark waters- it was night by now. We had a good time chatting with the guy riding the ferry. Once on the other side(Bagmandala), it was quiet evident our next halt had to be Harihareshwar. The road was straight from Bagmandala. It possibly went through a canopy of trees (I really cant comment here since bike beams were my only sight of the road ahead). Soon we rode into Harihareshwar. Here we parked our vehicles next to the temple and Bandya our hotel-man got onto his task to get us a room for the night. (7:25pm 831.9kms).

Nachi and me sat at a tea store as Bandya came bouncing in with options, we picked on one and check the room. The guy who was managing this room was a young kid and was not wiling to reduce the price. We liked the room with no beds but 5 thick mattresses :). The 2 adjacent rooms had guests. We got our place to crash. Freshened ourselves up and relaxing and joking later we went down to a hotel and had some good konkani dinner. After this we decided to walk down to the temple and then go up a hill to sunset point. The temple was full of people, possible a colony/college gang staying in the rooms and quadrangle there. They were having a ball playing all sorts of games. Soon we went up the other side up a fleet of steps but returned defeated to the dark surroundings and Bandya's suggestive ghost stories :).

We paid the beach a visit, sat for sometime yapping all sorts of things and eventually called it a day. On the way back we stopped for ice cream at a hotel where the owner gladly offered us some amazing "black current sundays". So we had 2-3 of those -each. Here we called our folks back home from the STD booth before walking back to our room. Some chit chat and lots of laughs later the night ended to the calm of konkan.

The next day was not to be hectic, as we had our target set to no further than Alibaugh. So we decided to wake up late.

Konkan Bike Trail (Day 2 of 5)

2008-12-24T22:00:00.020+05:30

DAy2
Dawn sparked with Nachi's many wakeup calls stating at 8am. Quickly we scurried off our beds, rushed out to the boiler. This was an unique experience, getting out and siting next to the fading furnace to fill in water. Well soon we started getting our share of tea, pohe and upmas and were ready by 8 am. A few more snacks later we warmed up the engines, got attired for the days ride, settled the amount with the owner and were off to the nearby fuel station. It was ~9:40am.

The Vengurla Bazaar had pickup up life and there was a never ending halt in that little lane, soon the deadlock cleared and we fueled up at the nearest pump. From there we learnt we had to backtrack the bazaar and take a right to get to Malvan. The road led up a hill and twisted up giving us wonderful views of the ocean through the bushes lining the road. Soon the ride went through a patch of land as the road led as straight as it could to infinity - a barren patch on both sides and the black carpet beneath. The drive was wonderful and we crossed a wonderful bridge- the first of the many bridges we were to cross. Had a quick photo session and off we were towards Malvan. By now Bandya set the standard of racing ahead and clicking us as we rode in and I followed suite :).

We arrived at a 'T' junction - left led to Malvan/Tarkarli while right it we went towards NH17. We decided to halt at Malvan for breakfast near the S.T. bust stop at the same restaurant we had breakfast on our previous trip. Once at the S.T. stop we darted into the hotel and ordered some tea and a few snacks- Bandya cannot live on tea alone and that's written. Time was ticking at 11am, with 449.3kms on the odo). The waiter was the same enthusiastic guy single-handedly managing the whole crowd and also the constant batter of a guy seated next to us who was on some race to get what he ordered fast and gulp it the minute it was placed on the table. Amazing breakfast and re-living some old memories we took quick directions for Devgad (11:30am).

We had to back track a little and then take a left near some scrap yard as the road- a really bad patch- went through some not so good surroundings of marshy land. With the sun beating down at us and the roads- being the inner roads- kept our speeds at bay, but still we were getting some quick patches where we could see the endless road and let the needle turn at will. Soon we were riding by many political-party flags and saw the typical stage being setup for some 'bhashan' -philumi istyle, we went ahead and the the road took a dip to the left through a thick canopy and led to a village- A few locals confirmed it was Devgad ahead and the road behind led to Vijaydurgh. We decided to pay Devgad a visit. The road got narrow and led along side the waters to our right and ended at a gate. We went in, but decided not to linger around much- It was the fort of Devgad we were in. Here we got down to a little coral beach to the side, took some snaps, stretched ourselves before leaving for Vijaydurgh. (12:40pm, 504.1 kms )

The ensuing part of the ride was pretty much event less with us riding through similar landscapes. In about an hour we were at Vijaydurgh(1:50 pm). We were more interested in the port, since we needed to cross the huge bay to the other side. We rode alongside the waters and soon spotted the wonderful fort of Vijaydurgh. We rode right in and asked locals about the boats to ferry us. Everyone said the next boat to leave would be at 3pm. Some even said due to low-tide the boats would not leave. One very kind local at the fort suggested we take a new bridge -Ambarli bridge- which was supposedly some 20 kms away to get to the other side, he also pointed out in the distance, across the waters, to some mud cut area saying that's where the bridge was. He was a nice guy and invited us to visit "his" fort :). Well we took our steeds to a hotel Suruchi parked it there and had the best konkani lunch! Man having local food is precisely my idea of a perfect meal- not the paneer crap. Post lunch we went on to visit the fort, I had to pull the tired Nachi and Bandya in (or so I thought). The fort was pretty clean and surprisingly not in shambles, much of it was reconstructed and it looked like a strong fort. We set a turn-around time of 3pm and down we were by that time, only to be told by the locals that there were no boats - we had little choice but to ride down to Ambarli bridge. (15:05pm ,534.4kms)

The rest of the ride was going to prove to be a test for our patience, concentration, physical-torture etc etc. The initial section of the road was good and it seemed pretty cool and pretty much what we experienced earlier. Soon we came to a junction and on inquiries were directed onto a dust path. Some 2 wheelers coming off the opposite side confirmed our direction. (I guess we were at 'Padel Thitta'). The road was a mere dust path with stones strewn along and cut rocks along the side- this road was to be built soon. Our speeds fell considerably as the terrain shifted from bad to pathetic to worse and the color of our pathway transformed from shades of brown to black to white. The "road" went through a pass cut through the hill and led down a steep descent to the left and a few twists later we passed a little bridge hardly 30 ft in length and the scene re-iterated itself to the other side. That was the much hyped Ambarli bridge?!- that puny little thing we passed to torture our ass for the last over 1/2 hour! NO- we were to be proven wrong.

Soon the dust path ended to a good road as we reached the middle of nowhere with a whole bunch of stone workers at a mine. All of them were pretty exited to see us red-clad clowns attired under the beating sun. We asked them for Jaitapur jetty. Here there were mixed opinions, a couple said they would not load enfields on the boat- they suggested we take the road to Rajapur on NH17 and drive around the creek to the other side of Jaitapur. A quick discussion later we decided to ride down to the jetty and take all what comes at us. So we went straight across towards Jaitapur, very soon we came at another cross road and here we took a left along a good looking road and ended up at a village. There the friendly locals spoke a lot and assured us that all bikes could be loaded in the boat and directed us some 10 kms back along the road we came and go straight up till a big hut like structure from where we were to take a left. So we did that. This patch was an ugly tar road . It was bad. Slowly inching ahead. There were times when I would race ahead and wait for for my compadres to team in.

Soon we came at something that looked like an intersection with a broad mud path (no different that our previous - only broader) leading to the left. A couple of vehicles came in from that side, and they confirmed we had to take that path. A local standing near a house like structure confirmed the same "Aho hyoch rasta hay .. Highway hay hyo!" - He called that darn path a highway!!. He said the path ahead along the tar road led to Rajapur. We had little option and in we threw ourselves to the mud path. Here we rode along the corners of the path where it was relatively better- that meant 2 things: 1. Our asses bore less torture and 2. We could have a smother ride. But that had one drawback: at certain points when we had to get back towards the central section it translated to slips and skids. Our speeds were roughly 20 -30 all along this path as it went from village to another and finally through a cut mountain pass and LO!!!! We were on this huge bridge that crossed the creek with the ocean to our left- AMBARLI BRIDGE!. Yeah man we rode across with our thumbs up. The mud path ensued to the other side and soon it ended at a silk smooth tar road it had a board Jatapur to the left- some 10 kms!

From here we zipped, we threw ourselves at the road and made up for all that torture. This seemed like silk skidding over butter for our lower sides and we sped as the milestones zipped by 10 -9 -8... 6 I stopped for a snap as Nachi and Bandya passed and on - 5-4-3-2 .. We were at Jaitapur (5pm, 581.1 kms) as we saw the port. It was extremely small and simple, a quick inspection got our horrors to light - we had to load our steeds on a fisherman's boat. A few inspections and apprehensions later we decided to cross by boat. It was a macho task lifting those enfields manually onto a little boat- lots of sweat and muscles later all 3 steeds were on boat ready to ride across. The boat-man was very confident and said he did that every day and assured nothing bad would happen. We enjoyed it :). In 10 minutes we arrived to the side side. The unloading saga played in reverse. Again a drain of sweat and energy. We were on the other side by boat! There was a bridge being constructed across the creek and that would translate to a dip in the bat-man's wages. Local's said the work was in full swing and that the bridge should be done in a year. Had some quick refreshments at the local shop with kids darting in for their own tit-bits "taai 2 rupaye che goli dena - 3 rupaye cha icecream dena" etc. It was very relaxing. A few inquiries for directions and we pushed on for our ride ahead. (5:30pm, 581.1kms)
Our road for the rest of the ride was to be via Pawas to Ratnagiri. Some locals suggested we could also stay Bhatye. We rode on. The road was amazing and very smoth - highway standards. Soon we passed though Pawas, there was possibly some function on at the Samadhi there as the whole village was bustling with people. Soon we rode through some amazing twisties as we neared a beach that we mistook for Bhatye, moving on we arrived at Bhatye with the sun fading (6:40pm, 632.6 kms)). Here I called Prasad to check if he could arrange for some accommodation at a hotel in Ratnagiri, but he said that all were full. None-the-less we moved into an over crowded- mini metro city of Ratnagiri. Nachi and Bandya did the hard part of searching us a room as I guarded our bags. We were to lodge at Shraddha Lodge.(7:15pm ,635.1kms)

The lodge was perfect and bang amidst the bazaar. The room had a double bed and I opted for the floor. Here we relaxed. Later took a quick cold shower, which was rejuvenating after the torture we were put through. Soon we left for dinner. Me being familiar with this place, took us by rick to a Hotel Amantran. Had an amazing Konkan meal with "Wade" (Puri like rotis). Back at the lodge, we laughed at our original prospect of riding to Hedvi. The night was sleepless with the blood thirsty mosquitoes making sure we did not sleep.

The stop for the next day was to be Harihareshwar or Diveagar. We were pretty exited for this day as it was to cover some interesting points of Guhagar-Velneshwar, Dhabol and also 2 boat rides!

Konkan Bike Trail (Day 1 of 5)

2008-12-23T22:00:00.019+05:30

It was that time of the year. Holidays and a long vacation announced by our company. Nachiket planned on another trip, but we had nothing concrete in mind. A day before the actual trip we had explored options of rides to Mt. Abu, a ring expedition Pune-Hyderabad-Bangalore-Bijapur-Pune, drive down to Dandeli stay a couple of days there and return and the well favored ride -all along the coast of konkan. Eventually by the time Bandya, after all his 'nakharas', teamed in -the destination decided: Pune->Vengurla via Amboli ->Ride along the Konkan coast with day1 halt at Vengurla;day2 around Hedvi; day3 around Diveagar and day4 around Alibaugh and finally back to Pune via Tahmini or Pen.

Day1:
The plan was good and after usual delays we were finally at Sinhagad Phata at about 7:15am. Standing here we could recollect memories from the Karwar trip and we decided to keep the speed at ~80kmph along NH4. The engines roared to life as we thudded down the highway and in no time were past the Katraj bypass. We had decided to take a halt at the Bharat Petrol Pump post Natraj hotel. It felt good, we did not speed and maintained a max of ~80kmph. Fueled up, we decided on our next halt post Khambatiki Ghat at one of the many stalls for breakfast. Off we flew and zipped down the highway . Khambatki arrived and then came the incredible twisties- but early morning mist got the roads wet and we had to administer caution taking lean means. 8am -we were at a food stall past Khambatki, judged a couple of stores finally settled for one with pohe, wada and our fist of the thousands of cups of tea!(8am, 71.6 kms) Nachiket's enfield caught its ritual leak- one of the pipes was cut and that made way for a minor oil leak. A quick purchase of a cello-tape and a fine patch up put things at bay. Here we spent some quality time- kept discussing all sorts of things, I mean wih 3 monkeys like us laughter is not a premium.

Ah well, we carried on and made a tentative decision to halt post Karad at the hotel we stopped at on our previous ride or halt after an hour. It was 8:45 when we left. Here the ride got pretty monotonous and some how I decided to skip the 80 game and take a speed shot. We rode past Satara, the distant hill forts seemed to be floating on air with Clouds still lingering low over the city. Soon I lost Bandya and Nachi off the rear views. A few misses later we all synced up at the hotel past Karad for our next breakfast halt- Hotel Ruchura. Time was ticking at 10:15 (173.1 kms). A few relaxing stretches and mindless talks later we zipped off and decided to halt only if needed but making the Shippur hotel our next defined halt. The ride here was no different the usual monotonous highway with the sun rising high over our heads. Bandya and me started playing formation games and very soon we teamed Nachya in and all three of us played circle formations. Believe me this helps! It helps you kill the monotone. Well the traffic was starting to pick up and after some 1/2 hr of formation play we decided to simply ride our own way ahead. Very soon we were on Karnataka roads and NH4 bore the Expressway look. Rules there were to be broken at ones whim- "excellent roads" + "bad sense of driving" = "bad roads" :). Well we had to face this for some time. The fuel gauge started nearing the red mark and that made me search for pumps. But soon we rode past Nipani and I knew the hotel was near and we thudded in.
Hotel Satyawati (~12 noon) with his over enthusiastic owner made the halt there wothwhile. Here we were directed to abandon NH4 and take the road we saw opposite the highway -that would lead to Amboli via Ajra. We were also told that the nearest fuel station was ~20kms down that road. With 273kms on the odo and 12:40 on the clock we took the not so good road leading to Ajra. Enroute we went past Ollur (we had to bypass the idea of visiting Nachi's relative here due to press of time). The roads were not good and we had to be very careful negotiating various twists. All through we were finding it hard to even jump past 40. Eventually we arrived at the fuel station and got the mettle-bellies full(1:10pm, 292 kms). The road ahead went under a lot of shade with the forest thickening up to the kilometer. Riding behind trucks was very irritating, since at many places the roads were pretty thin and we'd have to get partially off road to overtake, also trailing cars was a pain since they'd put breaks at almost all ticks of the clock to the patchy bad roads. Bandya was far ahead with me trailing Nachi. That's when it happened, I honked hard and steady, Nachi stopped and I said "I have a flat rear tyre dude" We honked hard and saw Bandya ride off. Off we got our steeds contemplating ona plan of action. Quick inquiries from a couple of locals only revealed - the mechanic would be available at Amboli about 10 kms from where we were. (2:10pm, 333.5 kms)

Nachiket and me decided to get the rear wheel off ourselves and stuff in the new tube (The previous day, we bought a new tube- just for such occasions). The CBZ gave us a tough time getting the wheels off the body- that's when Bandya trailed in. "Damn guyz- I was waiting for you some 2 kms ahead ready to snap a pic of you guyz riding in" - we had a hearty laugh and got the wheel off the bike. Decided to change the tube ourselves and did it in the not-the-way-to-do-it method. Like clowns we stood on the wheel loosing the tyre and pulled off the tube, a quick inspection revealed the culprit: a darn nail -got rid of it. Soon stuffed in the new tube and again using the most hilarious methods possible in a truthful bid to do it right got the tube in and on started the air filling saga. 15 mins of sweat and excursion did not even get 1 PSI in the tube, that's when Nachi and Badya decided to ride off (on Bandya's thunderbird) to Amboli to fill in some air while I was to sit it out amidst the jungle. (2:50 pm)

The jungle was quiet and occasionally vehicles bounced by making me, the CBZ w/o the rear wheel, the glittering Nachi's red bird a sight to watch. No one, I mean not even one even cared to ask if I needed help -Jerks! Oh well. There was this little lake behind- so trotted off there and freshened myself up. The wait was exhaustive- so killed time with some photographic sessions. At about 3:15 got a call from Nachi "Vindya- the tube we put in that too was punctured!". "What... how.. we checked it yesterday". "The screwdrivers we used to tug the tube in managed to slit the tube a bit". Agghh.. So it took them some 15 minutes to fix the tyre and some 20 more minutes before they finally arrived. Then started the mania to get the wheel back onto the bike. Munching on wafers and joking over the past event and bathing in sweat, the vehicle was finally ready to shoot down the road. It was 4:15 when we finally bid my rest place goodbye.

Soon in about 1/2 hour we arrived at Amobli and stopped at a Hotel Swagat for lunch, but ended up having omlettes cold drinks and the ritual tea(4:35pm, 345.5 kms). "Who serves lunch at this hour" was the expression of the owner there :). Here we met a guy who appreciated our efforts to ride down all the way and glowed at our prospect of the coastal ride. Its that glow and such positive attitudes that gave us the strength, stamina and the right mindset to execute this trip in a flawless manner. Some 20 minutes later we left the village and were soon on a ghat- Amboli Ghat! What views.. What roads... What environment .. simply stupendous. It was a ghat through a jungle that led down over a majestic carpet of tar. We did take a photographic halt enroute where Bandya enjoyed his primate friends. The ride was effortless and the sun was setting low behind the canopy in a distance as we reached ground level. Very soon took a right some 3.5 kms before Sawantwadi to get to Vengurla. A couple of kilometers later we touched on NH17 rode a few kilometers before we got off it to ride down the State Highway to Vengurla. We saw the sun set in a distance as we thudded down the beautiful road at breakneck speeds to finally reach the town of Vengurla.

A few inquiries later we were directed to go straight, and the road ended at the port -Vengurla Bandhar. The clock ticked at 6:40pm and odo read at 401.8kms. We were at "our" Southern tip of Konkan. Took some time out and relaxed by the port looking around the soon setting darkness. Bandya -our hotel search man- very soon found a wonderfull place for us. Hotel Sea View had about 5 rooms with 3 beds and an attached toilet each with a hospitable owner and his family with a very reasonable price of 300/-. How can you say no! Well we soon crashed in - had a very chilly bath and were all fresh and ready for dinner. We were directed to one Hotel Amantran. This place was like a resort but the food was your typicall city food -Punjabi-Chineese no konkani stuff! Man I would not recommend this place if you want good local food- but I will recommend this place for its setting and the wonderful ambiance of amazing classic-old background music and the helpful waiters. Here we had the time of our lives- soon we picked on Kachara (the character from the movie Lagaan) and made all sorts of situations spice up around him -every little thing we spoke had Kachra in it. Then jokes after jokes , added to it the line of empty bottles, this was a laughter riot. Finally at maybe 11pm or so we decided to quit and walk down the street. The night was cold but our talk and jokes kept the chill away. The sky was lit up with a million LEDs- a sight we city dwellers dearly miss.

Soon we stood by the port and saw the fishermen catch their bait and spoke to them about how they go about it etc. It was some quality time we spent, then on my perusal we decided to climb up a hill to the lighthouse. But unfortunately the gate was shut so we decided to return only to find that our hotel Sea View had its door shut as well. Lots of noise and shouts later the owner woke off his dreams and let us 3 idiots in. Lots of talk and chats later we decided to at least try and reach Ratnagiri if not Hedvi for the next day.

We did assume that going anyplace beyond the Ratnagiri-Jaigad landmass could be and overkill- the next day's ride proved us absolutely correct. The lights went off with many drunk goodnights to the wee hours as we slid into dream land with the waves lashing against the bank across the street.

Kaun Hai Tasneema!?

2008-12-03T01:10:00.001+05:30

17th Nov '08

I never imagined liquor chocolates could make me sleep like a log! So that day finally I had one before jumping to sleep.

Soon I realized I was in a lot of turmoil and it was of utmost importance that I meet Salmaan. Salmaan was a good friend and I had to meet him since he was the only guy who could protect me in this time of need and terror. I soon realized I had to be a savior and Salmaan was the only answer to all my worries. Soon I knocked at his little "chawl" door in my society. The society was good, I mean all cemented and white but the corridors selectively looked like a old chawl. It was strong and cozy though. Salmaan was seated on a chair as I ran to him and talk to him of how bad the situation was and that I needed guns to be the savior for this society! Very soon Salmaan handed over a bazooka, and said keep this its good and the best. Content- I slung it cross across my shoulder and walked off.

Very soon I realized a single bazooka was not enough and the distant gunshots were getting louder and more audible as I could see vivid images of soldiers ripping apart a war ground. I rush back to Salmaan and ask him for more guns. He obliged and said I was doing the right thing and handed me over a few guns and boxes of bullets for the same, for some odd reason the bullets were soft and looked like little dildos- he said they were the best and made a mark on the enemy.

Soon I saw Tasneema- a happy sweet girl in Salmaan's house. She was his sister and a good friend of mine. Riding along the streets seated pillion to her felt odd but we kept blabbering of a lot of things... things that meant nothing and at times total gibberish crap. The bazooka was still stuck to my back but never felt uncomfortable. Soon we needed to park the vehicle, we neared F.C. college. Very odd- the parking area along the road was all dug up and was nothing more than a heap of mud strewn around. I was riding the scooty now, so somehow managed to push and park the vehicle, but odd the scooty was the only vehicle being parked on that busy day. Suddenly I turned around to see that there was no road!

Suddenly there was an attack .. bullets flying everywhere, huge sounds of battle- gunshots ,cannon balls, blasts etc. etc. I also managed to spot a king riding on a horse with his sword sticking high up as he rode yelling at the enemy. Weird... I stuck out my own gun at the blood thirsty enemy - but wait the gun .. the gun was all plastic - it was a toy, and it soon broke off! I was doomed , but funny I was not scared. I knew my bazooka would save the society, I rushed to Salmaan!

Me: "Abbey yeh bazooka ko kaise chalate hain Bhaijaan?"
Salmaan: "Yeh button dabba to to yeh peeche hoga .. phir yeh compartment khulega .. phir unlock hoga uske baad tera mutex free hojayega aur semaphone plus plus ho jayega"

Suddenly we found ourselves inside this chambered room. We are actually standing inside the bazooka! What!! He opened a huge and strong furnace door, but it looked like that of "Kenstar". There were wild flames inside the door, he then tossed in a lot of "paavs"(bread) One loaf after another and I kept watching closely with keen interest, as I needed to know how to fire the bazooka. Then Salmaan turned over to me and said "Jaise hi ting ting ting ki awaaz ayegi to ek ek karke niklenge ye bazooka se aur toot padenge dusman par". I was happy and proud of my newly found knowledge. Then starts the war , I watched and studied the enemy from very close quarters.

Suddenly I found myself seated across a dining table with a cup of tea, Tasneema's mom was standing on the other side of the table giving a content smile. I sip on the tea and as soon as I lift my head, the whole room is full of guests- Hindus and Muslims alike. All were very occupied and happy for some reason, I knew it was a KPC in progress- It felt weirdly uncomfortable in a way and a usual uneasiness crept into me. Tasneema's mom kept smiling giving indications that all is ok. I was wide eyed.

Then I spotted some old village folk seated under a old "pipal" tree. They were discussing about how bad terrorism was and were discussing about the terrorist attack, all this time the war was on in full swing behind us- but somehow they were least bothered about it. It was then that an old man looked up to me and said "beta ATM mein bandook rakhi hai".

I then seat myself pillion to the scooty as Tasneema rode on into the dark night. WE soon reached an old abandoned 2-storied building. The building seemed incomplete since the land it was built on was under litigation. The first floor had its shutter partly open and the ATM was inside in a far corner. I told Tasneema "Mujhe bandooken withdraw karni hain.." as I took the ATM card and ascended a couple of steps to rush to the ATM in a dark corner inside.

At the ATM, once I inserted the card in the slot a couple of lights behind a glass pane started blinking on the topside of the machine. A man from inside the machine looked at me from behind the glass lights and asked "Kaaunsi color ki chahiye?" I replied "Mere paas bazooka hai..". Suddenly a gun popped into the tray below from the machine. I lift the gun and looked down and suddenly realized I had my hands full of guns of all shapes and sizes.

Soon I found myself back at Salmaan's house, I stepped out and saw the mercy-less war on at full wage. I turned my head and saw Tasneema at the far end of the dining table "Chaay pee lo.. thandi ho rahi hai". Her mom slid her palm across my hair affectionately and I felt like one of those gratitude-laden dogs wagging their tail for more affection. I turned my head again and saw Salmaan ruining like crazy for his life, there were some 3-4 commandos behind him with automatic weapons, he got shot and killed. It was like a movie, I turned my head and Salmaan was standing content next to his sister. Both starred at me.

I then found myself again at the "pipal" tree with all the old folk in the village. This time they are arguing heatedly about the terrorists. Suddenly I got shot in the leg, wasting no time I manned the bazooka over my right shoulder and again found myself on the passageway of the society. I was suddenly forced to jump with the bazooka but landed perfectly on the stairs below. I heard the "ting ting" sound, I knew the bazooka was going to fire -took aim at the mercy-less enemy. But wait the bazooka... it was nothing more than a pink colored water pistol with a blue plastic nozzle!! I was doomed.

I then found myself again seated pillion on the scooty with Tasneema and we are discussing all sorts of things like good old friends laughing out loud. Soon her mom says "beta tum bahut achhe ho". I am back at Salmaan's house. I turn my head and see Salmaan covered in blood falling down behind the screen in his room.

Suddenly I heard a "klang klang klang " sound and heard my dad "yes yes... " as something bright hit my eyes. I woke up all wide-awake and realized it was all just a dream- a weird stupid dream. The maid had come to work and dad had opened the door letting in ample light :).

But… still I was not convinced- what was this dream? Bazookas, plastic guns, ATM machines, war, old folk, Salmaan and who was this Tasneema!!!!!?? Scooty!!!

Maybe my recent search for a diwali plastic toy gun for my nephew, the current terror activities on in the country, me and my ATM card, recent talks with my fiancée, various masala movies, my love for canines etc. all these possibly got clobbered into this hilarious plot! :). But again... Kaun hai yeh Tasneema!??

Just thought of getting the above writeup booked :)

Zero on the Odo.. ~130 to the bag.

2008-11-30T22:47:00.004+05:30

It was a boring day, waking up at 12 then lazing through some munchies later over 'Dasvidaniya' the day seemed to end in a usual lousy drag. Then out of nowhere, decided to get off my slumber and do something “non-slumberish”.

Got ready- tucked over the red jacket whisked the dust off the bike kicked the engine to life and revved off. The time was ticking at ~5:45pm, it was getting dark and I really did not have many options. Soon I was on Sinhagad Road, not knowing what to do, I started contemplating various options- maybe ride to Sinhagad and trek and come back... but the dark clouds and evening did not deem right, possibly ride via the Katraj bypass till Shirval or so and return back... but that was a drag of an idea. That's when it struck why not take the Panshet road then take the Rajgad bifurcation and then via the thin and thickly forested steep ghat to the Velha road (Rajgad-Torna road) and then via NasrapurPhata-Satara road to Pune. Perfect!

Soon riddling my way through potholes, rubble and the returning weekenders I was riding past Khadkvasala. The traffic started to thin down as I reached the crossroad for Panshet. The road ahead was dark with a few high beams in the opposing direction, up went my visor. Then came a sign board indicating “Torna road” to the left. Took it.

The road was thin and too dark, I started getting second thoughts. What if I catch a puncture, some breakdown? What if thieves attack...? I mean this is a deserted stretch -as in a totally lonely road. But again I was confident this place would not have any dacoity issues. But a bike-breakdown is a definite possibility. The road went through a thick canopy of trees occasionally opening up to either sides opening up the dark valley sprinkled with lights in the distant settlements below. Deserted... oh yes it was... but still there were a couple of vehicles riding by in the opposite direction and that sprayed in some confidence. Soon the road started twisting and twining up a hill. The inclination was pretty acute. I could spot one of the red lights from the Sinhagad towers far behind. I kept riding

All this time there were flashes of light all around. Lightning! Yea man, I needed this- rain - and a lot of it. That's how insane I am. Passed via occasional houses and some bifurcations- some of these bifurcations were pretty dicey, but decided to follow my instincts. Soon reached the high point, I remembered this spot the last time we were here- it was bright and held the morning sun with the distant spectacular views of Rajgad and Torna. But now… it was dark, the distant pitch black clouds flashing occasionally made it further eerie. The road now was a descent. My bike handled pretty well, though slipping a few times to the rubble below. All I could see was 4-5 feet ahead where my low beam shone... or the 20 odd feet in higher beams. The descent had to be slow, since there were too many hairpin bends to negotiate. Nonetheless soon went past the crematory and I knew I was almost at level ground and Velha road would turn up in no time.

And there it was. A few villagers were seated with Milk cans at the road bend. Asked them if the left turn straight up lead to Satara road? They nodded. Yippie!!! Now I could throttle up to the full. The roads got better but not the best. I was emphatic... Started singing aloud and many an occasion rode spreading my arms open wide. Passing through many villages I was moving fast. At one occasion very marginally escaped a bad slip- I throttled to a full maybe 70 and then there was this sharp 90 deg. right, oh the fear, I could picture myself in the rubble and the bike slipping off into the field… maybe my instincts, managed to get out of it... it was only another maybe roughly 10kms or so that got me back to my senses. I could spot the highway- Satara road.

Yes! I was at Satara road- Nasrapur phata. Took the left and rode to the full throttle down the slick tarmac. It did take some time comforting myself to highway riding after the village and mountain roads. Soon the indicators got in action as I changed lanes at break-a-neck speeds. Maybe I was riding at 110. Joshi Wadevale soon made its presence. It was ~8pm. Took a refreshing halt. Lightning myself, then stuffing in a sumptuous pair of bhakris with pitla -bhajji and yes the thecha and kanda-limbu with tea- Purrrfect. Smsed me friends about my adventure, a couple replied back in all kudos. Mom said if I could parcel a bhakri back home haha :)

Well at roughly 8:20pm kicked my back to the now wet highway under drizzles. Very soon through the Katraj bypass I was back to Sinhagad road and back riding the not-so-crowded roads touched back home at ~8:45pm.

All through this ride, I knew my bike deserved better. You see the speedo was down the odo dead, the seat torn the right mirror missing the various oil-levels on the low a few fiber parts rattling and the tyres loosing their character. So all I can say is maybe I rode some 130 kms with a peak of a 110. I shall service my bike soon.

At the end of it, the bummer of a day was alive and kicking with me as the drummer!

GodGiri

2008-10-08T16:21:00.011+05:30

I once happened to browse the past trekking albums of VxTrek and came across this stupendous pic. from the "Boratyachi Naal" trek. I was awestruck looking at the degree of steepness and difficulty that was involved in that one pic. The pic. displayed concentration, alertness and definitely the zest that many call irrational moves (and others like me call cool,must-do etc etc.) I did talk to most involved in that trek. Addy was being modest -"Its not that steep and difficult as it appears in that pic. you see, remember "Naalichi Waat" trek- its similar to that". Anpy had a similar modest answer. Gondhya said the trek was great and fantastic and he had all rights to be elated- the pic was taken by him. All shared a common thought "When descending that Naal- it simply does not end, you get tired getting down man!".

Its since that day, I always wanted to do this trek and more so a trek called "RajMargh" which spans all the way from Sinhagad to Raigad covering RajGad, Torana, BoratyachiNaal and LinganaMachi and supposedly lasts for roughly five days.

In the snap from left to right -Anpy-Sanjay-Addy

Put in Gondhya's own words "Chakke Godgiri keli re amhi!"

My first flat...

2008-10-01T14:30:00.001+05:30

It took ~19K kms... it took ~eight years... it took a slumber of ~three or more years... it took , umm lemme see one.. two.. ~four minor and one recent major fumble... it took me visiting some six countries... it took in loads of dust and rust... it took 6 months in my bedroom :)... it took lots of rubble, stones, extremely rough terrain to some of the best tarmac around...

It finally happened... I was obedient behind the STOP line in RED at Jahangir Chowk rushing for a meeting... Green got me thrusting the throttle to its max and in no time to an idle. The bike was wobbling.. I experienced this many-a-times on 4 wheels. I knew its time had come... I knew I finally did it... I should have felt remorse... I should have felt bad ... I should have felt guilty ... I had to be angry over missing the meeting... I smiled.. I shook my head, got the visor off... I giggled... I laughed. Oh the elation.. oh the triump.. oh the feeling of fulfillment...

The puzzled rickshaw fellow said he did not know where the shop I was looking for was... the other rickshaw guy said, I need to get back to the signal for a shop there.

I did walk with my steed. It shone under the sun, it wanted the mild push ... killed the engine decided to thrust it on. Sure it had never experienced this before. It had a flat. the rear tyre had gone flat. The first time in eight years .. my CBZ faced its flat! I was happy and took pride of the situation :)

The mechanic soon arrived and fixed 8 punctures. I decided to pay him for the punctures instead of getting a new tube.. I wanted my bike -stock :). Saw the company bus zip by, imagined my colleagues laughing out loud at me. In about 1/2 hour the bike was back in shape , congratulated the mechanic for a job well done (he did say the tube was of good quality, and infact was a good guy himself!).

Rode back to office humming the songs from Rock on!!..

Meri laundry ka ek bill... Ek aadhi padi novel…
ta naa naa naa naa.. ta na naa naa

Weekday past 2am... Pashi in town.

2008-09-24T14:26:00.004+05:30

Its been a long time since I laughed insane, its been a long time since we all laughed insane and its been even longer since we laughed insane for no reason!

Pashi was in town, and that mandated a meetup. The birthday put me in the host's seat. Picking Andya from his place at ~8:20pm and then Pashi and Nilya driving down to me house had us munching over mouth-watering gulab jamuns and a lot of snacks,mom had prepared, over some hilarious scenes from "The Angrez". Pritam was next on the accused list, many phones and laughs later the car rode us to Pritam's (~10).

Pritam has not changed one bit. Its been ages since I've met him :). Bear hugs and "kya yaar " "kya rao " "hey man" "yoyyoyoyo" 's later, I was commanded to take us to a hotel- where I did not know. Oasis made sense, so on we rode past FC, Ganeshkid to Pashan Road. All sorts of amazing discussions engulfed this leg of the drive. So many catch up's and mises from our void -it was amazing.

Soon we took the Sus left and headed for Chandani Chowk and eventually onto dark-dark :) NDA road. Being a weekday, the couples were missing from nooks and corners- but that's about when we spotted a few and on came the HI-LO beam game. Oasis made its appearance in the dark corner, without a slow-down we took a sharp left down the uneven path to the car-park. "How did we reach so soon?" I thought. It was ~10:40pm.

We picked ourselves a table away from the crowd for the predicted boasts, loud noises, laughter riots and what not- and yes we were true to our word. The drinkers got their vodkas and we non-sinners got ourselves exotic mocktails (names like Namibian Nights, Pink Panther and Fiery Ice makes them sound Exotic!). The waiter asked us to place all orders since the kitchen was to close soon. The discussion went on through all names in the menu card to all confusion over what sort of Rotis to order! Usual confusions later we had some chick dish for starters some veg-platter(that never came) 2 vegs 1 daal a Roti ka Tokri :) and rice. Roti Ka Tokri was the best decision -it had all and no confusion, was filling and bang on.

The discussions soon wavered from serious talk to lighter hickups to mindless rant. Andya kept starring at his glass and kept munching on peanuts, I blast out laughing "You are drunk without a sip man... munching on Peanuts !" "Aye Vindya .. you are drunk without a drink -check your Namibian Night if that had anything .. laughing for no reason!" chuckled Ands. That was enough for the chuckkles to set in -I was getting out of control. Pashi kept patting my back "Controool man.. controol". I don't know, maybe its something about being surrounded by good friends that pushes me way into my comfort zone and go insane... I really don't know.

Then came little stories of how an irritated Anil once shouted to a bystander who was asking for the time in marathi -"Mala Marathi yet Nahi!", we all were in splits. Then came in various stories from all around the place. Anything anybody spoke or even uttered let the loud "HA" with repetitions with a mouth wide open so loud that we had to console ourselves to dimer volumes. Prasad was engaged and the time was 12am -we decided to pick on him.

Pashi did the honours to get snores to breaths and hisses to words -Prasad was awoken:). The round robin had us asking Prasad questions and answers to teases and irritations- what better way to irritate someone in the middle of the night just past commitment to mindless rant and laughter.. that too over phone! Prasad was happy we were all the same and perfectly normal.

Soon the dinner onslaught came to an end after a few more mindless laughs over Andya's new dumb-bells :). Nilya was getting late and was in a hurry. But we had to drop Pashi. The car took the dark NDA road past Sus- past Abhimanshree- past Parihaar- past Breman- past Aundh- to the Khadaki railway crossing where we took our first halt. We had to, the gate was down for a slow goods train to pass us. We imagined the train stopping for us (played Hi-Lo just to add to the giggles). After the long wait the gates eventually opened and got us to the other -uneven Martian surface- side. The road was bad but soon past the Bridge it got wonderful.

Zipping at insane speeds and then taking a central lane we reached Chinchwad. Himesh and many singers kept us company as Nilya and Pritam took turns snoring. Eventually a few turns later we were at Pashi's place- The place where I was once introduced to a "Nirdosh"! Yeah... whatever. Chatted for a few minutes before bidding our farewells back to the doggy streets to the highway. (~1:15).

The road then got us back via Aundh to SB road to FC to drop Pritam at his place. Nilya started getting his calls. Soon we reached home and decided to trail Nilya (he insisted he'd take his scooter back home despite my repeated persuals to drop him by car) all the way to his place at Wanowari(~2am). Andya and me kept discussing -LIFE :), and kept consoling as we trailed onto Wanowari.

Soon we reached Nilya's (2:20am) bid our farewells before zipping back to Andya's place at Sahakar Nagar. Had a lot of mature talk - I guess, its like, when a person gets too sleepy he probably feels he is too wise and.. for a blabberer like me it means I start sharing the wisdom. Hmm. Andya kept saying I made sense- maybe I am good -..... Naaat.

It was past 2:30am when I got home, mom said "So you are back haan..." "Sleep" said dad :).

The day they saw blunts...

2008-09-21T00:40:00.004+05:30

Once upon a time, Avik came by my cubicle and handed over a box to me. It looked different and unlike other boxes. It was a box cigars. Why me!? I do'nt smoke!

Well his philosophy was different, he just wanted to get rid of that box. He probably thought I did not smoke so that box would be preserved for some more time- actually my cube was adjacent to his. Sanjay was dead angry and frustrated with him at the time "इ विंडी तो पीता नहि है, ब&%#(% व@( उसे काहे दे दिये सिगार? एएए मोटाईमल बताओ तो... सब बरबाद कर दिये।"

Well I managed to keep that 5 pack with me for roughly 3 years now. Nachiket, Piyush, Mandar were amongst the consistently persistent ones for getting their hands on that box. I did not even give them a glimpse of the pack. Maybe I was trying to be a "messenger of good"- thou shalt not drink Cigars :)

One fine day, I was tired of keeping that box and being nagged at all times. Mandar and Piyush were in a discussion -Plop- I tossed the box on the table "ले ऎश कर।". Both of them starred at the box, then at me, then at the box and then at each other -wide eyed. "क्या है ये ?" asked Mandar "सिगार का बो़क्स- क्या बात है विंडी!.. क्या हो गया तेरेको?!" expressed Piyush "रख लो..." I said.

Have you seen a kid(really small.. like say around two) with a packed Birthday parcel, the enthusiasm and eagerness with which it tears open the wrapping and at the end of which it gives the tounge-out smile with saliva bubbles popping off the edges and then goes slap slap over the box. I witnessed a similar but marginally mature behavior that day with two twenty something year old kids :).

The discussion stopped, the outer lamination came off in a jiffy and then rose a sweet aroma- a very familiar distasteful in a way but still a sweet smell. Then out came 5 dark beige-brown-greenish (lets call it the cigar color) cartridges. Each wrapped in it own separate plastic covering. The many years of preservation had taken its toll, the covers clinged to each other and needed an ant effort to get them apart. Piyush and Mandar smiled like they were looking at a stick of Ambrosia. Then came the moment- one Cigar was selected to be peeled off its plastic jacket -off it came as all of us peered down at the cut end to the flakes of dry leaves and twigs (tobacco) stuffed in.

"यार इस्को फ़िल्टर नहि है।" I commented.. "अब्बे, ये सिगार है सिगार ।" both pounded over my sarcastic comment. By now each of us held a cigar in our hand and Vito Corleone and LOIN ( सारा शहर मुझे लोइन के नाम से जांत है। fame) made their spirits felt in no time -all sorts of dialogs from various celluloids and immense know-hows on how to hold and smoke a cigar ensued the next few minutes. Nachiket teamed in.

"ओय होय.. क्या बात है!" Nash was elated. The discussion continued over the Ubuntu screen swirling around from Epanny to Firefox from one Cigar know how to the other. "एक्स्पैरि डेट काकुच पंगा है क्या.. विंडी ने सडा दिया सब सिगारस को। " Piyush barked. I always thought Cigars were like Wine- older the better. Yiekks!

No one bothered about the expiry and decided "पियेंगे यार .. एक दिन शान से।". I returned to my cube with one bargained Cigar- afterall a momento was mandated though I never smoked.

The "पियेंगे शान से" day came in a week. The usual post office 7 something O'clock all of us walked down to the 3rd floor terrace with smiles and enthusiasm of little college kids ready to do and dance over something unheard and undiscovered of. We borrowed a cutter to get rid of the blunt end. With the honors done, "बहुत लाइट है रे.. म्म ह्म्म.. इतना मज़्ज़ा नहि है।" "दे तो ज़ारा.. हां.. लैकिन वो मांन्युलि जो सिगार बनाता है, उस्से तो स्ट्रोंग है..।" "दिखा तो.. हां, सहि बात है.. लैकिन लाइट हैयार-गुडांन गरम जैसा हि है..। " "बता.. क्या है यार.. कुछ भि नहि, हुक्का इस्से स्ट्रोंग है, ले।" "ओय.. क्या बात है.. ..।" "चल छोड.. जाता मैं घर, बीवी राह देख रहि है..।" "चल बे.. .. ..।" "मैं फोनकरके आया। " "बस कर, पूरा पियेगा क्या?" ".. .. खत्म करता हूं .. .. .. .. ..।" "क्या हुवा?" "बुजारहा हुं, नहि होगा, दस बज जयेंगे खत्म करते करते। ".

Back at the cubicle, "चल विंडी... आज से मैंने सिग्ग्रेटस छोड दिये।" blasted Piyush, "और क्या... सिगार चालु कर दिये?" smirked Mandar. "हां..." all laughed. Sorry Avik, your cigars are now in the open :).

Daaay... Mind it

2008-09-13T14:08:00.008+05:30

Our product was being used by an esteemed customer in Chennai and they were facing some problems with the same. Our Sales and Support folks made sure they let us Engineers know the seriousness of the issue. Managers realized the seriousness and asked me to backpack to Chennai. I was apprehensive at first, somehow I never liked the prospect of visiting Chennai.

Its been over 8 years since I visited that part of India. The last time I did it was humid summer but yes did enjoy the visit- visiting relatives, the temples(there is something about visiting 'non-hyped' temples in the south), going around the city etc. but I hated the climate and since I hardly ever speak tamil -had a tough time communicating.

Despite my apprehension, managers and various colleagues managed to lure me to the prospect of the visit stating it would be a great learning curve and others chided me to other obvious know-hows. Well I had to and I did. Dad 'n Mom were elated -their Marathi tounged lad , MBCT (Marathi Born Confused Tamil), was actually traveling to Channai - ALONE!

Armed with a backpack, laptop, lots of sweat and nervousness I took the "Red" flight to Chennai. At first I did not have a clue as to how I was going to solve the customer issue, but had a few tricks in my bag -it was tough depending on those. We flew up above the clouds and back down black clouds as the captain announced "The temperature outside is 30 deg. Cel.". Old memories engulfed me -the humidity, the sweat and white folded veshtis and cycle rickshaws all around. The pink make-up and red lips shone "good bye sir.. have a nice day" as I stepped off the flight.

It was cloudy and not humid, it was warm. Sultan was my buddy cabbie -it took me the entire trip to realize, I actually was an executive! Chennai did not look like Madras, it looked very familiar, it looked very open very ... cosmopolitan. Lungis were replaced by jeans , TVS-50's were replaced by various 4-wheeled drives, little dusty roads were taken over by wonder-full black roads. Chennai looked different. Maybe I am wrong afterall...

The rest of the day was spent with me at the Customer site tackling the issue till late midnight. "Everyone" spoke tamil around me but "we" communicated in English. I understood every word being spoken, and really wanted to jump in with "aaman.. correcttee.. illai " etc., but decided not to -since that's the only tamil I am confident with. On the way back 2 of my colleagues -a tamil and a kerela born tamil- were surprised and floored to learn I was a tamil as well. MBCT- that hardly mattered anymore, it was the 'T' that made the difference :).

With a resolved case, I had the next day all to myself. Ajay was in Chennai- Kodambakkam. I liked the name, asked him to skip office. The ride went via many names, Neelambakkam, Ashok nagar and what not and also a short cut that took us via an army area and a village with a huge suclpture of a king (some deity maybe). Finally we were at Kodambakkam next to a girls college. I did spot old memories here -veshtis and TVS-50s.

Ajay has grown thinner, "Mujhe motta hona hai yaar, bachha hoga to utha kaise paunga .. wo laath marega mein peeche gir jaunga.. dhek mujhe mein office se college, college se school jane ke tayari mein huun:)". Yes we are happy close buddies, had a great time spicing up all sorts of things at his place. For lunch, he took us to a place I always loved for food in Chennai- Sarawanabhavan!

Sarwanabhavan, idlis dossas and loads of sambar and chutney start flying around my head. Sarwanabhavan, make me stand next to a foul garbage bin and I would still smile with the smell of fresh curries and rice dollops in my head. We took inner roads to get to Arkot Road.

I remember this place, I had been to this branch once- its much bigger now. I decided to buy some stuff from the outlet, Mysoor paak and nendranga chips. "Mysoor Paak irukkange?" I asked "Evloo?" she asked.. I got confused- I am bad at numbers in Tamil "kaal kilo" I blurted. Whats kaal kilo!!!? "Paal Mysoor Paakaa? .. Gheeaa?" she asked Ajay "Oye Vindy .. mennu bachao yaar .. gaali derahi hai mennu" reacted Ajay "Ghee Ghee" I intervened. (Kaal kilo is 250gms :) .. mom told me later)

After that, whatever it was- I was out with 2 packets, we had lunch. Decided on having Thaalis, they had many thaali options. I picked the costliest of the lot, Ajay took the next one. The plates were full- I mean they were roughly my forearms length in diameter and full of katooris. ~12 bigger ones took the outer diameter and 7-8 smaller ones covered the inner void - all were full of some curries or the other, many I recognized others I could relate to. Soup, One immeriti (Jangri in Tamil), 1 papad, 1 paratha (I ordered another) and a load full of rice! Ajay and me stared at each other and dug right in. In no time the handkerchiefs were out and we braved the battle. It was a fight to the finish before we ran bash to the wash basin content we were out of the sweet torture! Back at the table there was 1 banana and 1 paan an icecream for me. We forced the stuff down our throats and decided on taking a walk before actually getting back to the car.

Mom, Dad said they wanted some more stuff from the outlet. Bought those -spoke in English this time around. Back at Aj's room we had another great session Jumping and laughing for joy before I bid my farewell as I had a flight to catch.

The ride to the airport, made me wish I could stay longer and spend more time possibly roaming around the city and visiting relatives and also possibly pay a visit to some temple. Alas as the roads kept speeding back and the sign boards for International cargo and airport made their presence, I knew it was the time to say goodbye.

In flight a book that spoke of south cuisines and stuff interested me in particular- maybe its my recent stint at Chennai that got me all mushy about this :). Back in Pune, the cabbie asked me "Tumhche naav Marathi vatat nahi .. pan tumhi spashte marathi kase kay bolta ho??". So yes post trip I realized the MBCT I am -just that it introduced me to the 'T' factor.

Stress ride to Lonavala

2008-09-07T13:52:00.010+05:30

Again the trek plan took a hit and had to do something about it. So effectively on Saturday morning Jayram and me met at Chandani Chowk and after a few ideas decided to ride down to Sahara City/Lonavala area via the Mulshi route.

This was one route I had always wanted to do for a long time.

On we rode the smooth roads that led to Pirangoot(~9:30am). The weather was pretty dull with clouds all around but with no trace of humidity. Jay was all attired in his 4500/- armored riding jacket :). Soon we rode past Bhugaon and post a few misses finally synced up near Manas. Riding past Pirangoot Ghat- Pirangoot- Sutarwadi we eventually neared Paud. Decided on taking a breakfast halt past Mulshi at one of the dhabbas. As we rode on the city/town scape was taken over by the rich green landscape. The roads seemed to have been laid through a meadow of wild shrubs. The temperature dipped.

We stopped just before the Mulshi dam road-fork. Jay mentioned of a road that goes by the fork to Lonavala, but we decided to stick to our plan of riding past Tahmini and taking the notorious path to Lonavala. The ride ahead made the distant plateaus and green mountains with clouds perched atop them visible. Soon we were riding along the Mulshi waters. Here we took a break at one of the roadside dhabbas and relished on Pohe and tea. Surprisingly my grumbling tummy seemed content :D. I was ~10:30am.

The ensuing route had me trailing Jay. The water body to the right and plateau for us makes this section of the ride amazing. That's one of the reasons you have so many tourists visit these parts. The scene remained more or less the same with the roads twisting and skirting the Mulshi lake. Roads too were pretty decent. A couple of halts for snaps and we continued on as I loudly hummed tunes from "My Fair Lady " and "Singh Is King !!!!" :)).

Soon we rode past Tahmini village as were headed steady to the distant mountains. A few of them clogged in dense clouds. "Humara rasta wahin se janne walla hai boss" commented Jay. Amazing, we will have rains or so we thought as we neared the point for the Lonavala bifurcation.

The path leading straight goes on to Dongarwadi while the one to the right led to Lonavala and inner Mulshi villages. A group of riders -possibly headed towards Dongarwadi saw us coming and gaped as we took a right and stopped by the bridge. What we saw was nerve wrecking. The "kuccha path" led over a little bridge took a left and climbed over rubble- yes rubble! It looked like a landslide and nothing more or less.

Jay and me exchanged glances and he persuaded me to lead the rest of the path :). Packed with confidence and a cool head we slowly chugged to the landslide. Soon we were over loose stone and gravel. It seemed many heavy vehicles had passed over this terrain as the tyre tracks layed two little compact rubble paths - we rode on those. Slowly bouncing /skidding /jumping /throttling and playing with all sorts of levers we were atop and saw the beautiful landscape spread ahead of us.

To our lucky stars nothing was broken and we rode a little ahead and took a butt break. An S.T. bus rode in the opposite direction and over the rubble as it took a left to get down the landslide! So yes this path is ridable. From here one gets the view of the Plus valley from a different perspective you are standing lateral to the ravine facing a huge rockface of the mountain across the valley. Snaps and laughs later we rode on. The path got from worse to bad to good. The road seemed new, we rode by a Yoga ashram. Soon we took our next immediate halt.

These parts are so beautiful, it s a tough job to get over the temptation for nature-gasping while riding. We got off road over the plateau to a vista point near the valley. This spot was even more amazing. Distant waterfalls over the rockface and dull clouds over the sky simply made this place heavenly. We pondered over how one can get to the mountain across and possibly sit at the mouth of those gushing falls! We had to move and so we did.

The ride went though a jungle and open plains and rode by little water dams as we neared our second bifurcation. The road straight ahead-which was good- led to the village of inner Mulshi while the one to the left went over a bridge and eventually over rubble and sharp stones with loose tyre track paths. We stared at the road ahead shook our heads and took the path. Slips and dances over the vehicle was a norm for this section of the ride. We rode over low-bridges and eventually past little hamlets. Many school children cheered along as we rode down and up various inclines over rubble. The torture seemed endless. In reality it was not that bad - There were a few meters of bad tar roads for every kilometer of rubble :). Eventually the rubble and bad roads gave way to better ones.

We could spot Korigad in the distance and the various neighboring hills. We took a halt by a stream, freshened ourselves in the cool fresh mountain water. The only thing we kept repeating "Arrey kya mast jagah hai yaar ".. "sahi sahi.." .

The ride went went over various water puddles and bad and good roads in patches and soon we were nearing various hills. At one halt we did spot Telbaila engulfed in clouds in a distance and made calculations over where Ghangad and Sudhagad could be. The ride went past some weird mountain formations and soon we could spot Ghangad in a distance. It was barely some 5-6 kms away. For any other given day we would have made a dash for a climb, alas we had to return by evening. The sight was beautiful. Telbaila too made its majestic appearance in the near vicinity. The cattle enjoyed a lazy bath in the near waterlogged farm which spilled water over the roads. Here we rode by some nature eco-tourism site and eventually by the bifurcation that leads to Telbail village.

The road now ascended though a thick jungle and got really bad. Lots of craters and blind turns got us atop the hill as the road got better the path took a downward plunge. The roads were lined with blue flowers -"Karwi"! Atlast we spotted what I really wanted to- the flower that blooms one in 10-12 years! Jay confirmed it was the rare blossom post some close inspections. The place was beautiful and perfect for a long halt - a near gushing stream by an old moss ridden temple, the roads lined with blue bushes and not a hint of daylight down the thick canopy of trees.

The path soon went down the hill and just as immediately we were riding on air! The road was now smooth "Tarmac"! We were nearing the SaharaCity bifurcation . At the bifurcation we took an immediate left and decided on ditching the rich City. Roads were awesome, simply magnificent- a 2 laned well divided road with smooth tar all over. The wheels and engine loved the smooth touch. We did take a halt to click some more "Karwis".

Riding on we got to a major 'Y' bend and post some inquiries for Mulshi took a 'U' bend and rode on. We were returning back via the path Jay mentioned at the start of the trip. The time was near ~12:30. We were without water and our last food was that at Muslhi.

The roads were pretty wide and decent. At one point we did loose track but then rode straight into a "Road closed" gate, the guard there said "This road goes to Sahara city, for Mulshi you need to take this thin one by the side". The thin road was again a kuccha road and ascended alongside the adjacent hillside. At one point Jay pointed to a kuccha path that lead to Tungwadi inwards to the left- the road looked bad. We rode straight on. Enroute we did spot many little tuns that had a "Road Closed" gate - all lead to Sahara City.

At one occasion we did come to a prominent fork and simply decided to follow our instincts and ride straight on. We were not sure where we were headed. The ride went past little make shift looking hamlets with no inhabitants. Maybe these were displaced villages due to the Amby Valley project or possibly the workers for the same I thought.

The ride and road was relentless, simple torture. Our backsides were pleading for mercy. Many an occasion we would stop part way and wonder if the fork we left behind was indeed the correct path. Korigad was now visible from the other side and that confused us further. We did not know what to do and decided to ride on.

At one village, the villagers did confirm the path led to Mulshi. But the path seemed endless,we were continually riding alongside a hill. We took our major butt-break. Jay was frustrated and exhausted over the torment,I decided to ride back a few meters where a couple of bikes were parked, hoping to meet some people - I did! The farmers seated under a tree did say the road led straight and went all the way to Paud Gaon. Joyous and content got back to my compadre who was now off his riding gear and seated on a pile of mud. "Baith ja yaar" he said... :)

So we sat and simply did nothing and in a few moments starting yapping. The clock ticked past 1:30pm. A few moments of rest and assurance that the path did go the right way we dressed back for the ride ahead.

The path now went twisting and twining down as we could spot some major water body to the right. Possibly this was a rivulet from Mulshi we thought. An Endavor trailed us for most of the path and we lost him as soon as path went bang into a village. Riding past, the road widened but was a mostly a mud path as it ascended to another village full of cows.

We skipped the "does this road go to Paud" talk and rode on. Soon we reached a high point and could spot the huge water body in the valley at a distance. Took a halt. We walked over the hillside and were Jumping For Joy, when we realized where we were! We were bang on the opposite side of Mulshi lake. The water body below had various little islands and also a conical island behind which lay "Kailasgad". We were riding along some right track, we assured ourselves as we spread on the green pasture.

The sun was beating down refracting through the grey clouds, we slipped into a peaceful nap for a few minutes. The meadow our bed the light breeze our blanket and the open skies our roof- perfect. In a few minutes a couple of "firangs" dropped by astride bicycles. They were lost and were adventurers. We did help them with a few directions and they kept calculating distances on their GPS system. Bidding our farewells we rode down as it went twisting down below near the waterfront.

Riding over bridges and many bends we started ascending a hill, soon came to a high point where we could spot a dam in the distance -Mulshi dam! We were on the other side of the dam. From here we could see the road as it serpented down the hillside alongside the dam to the Poud road below. We kept laughing aloud as we spotted the Mulshi road, the poud road and the bifurcation near the dam. We were correct and were coming down the very road we had decided in the first place! Perfect.

Soon we rode down various twists and blind bends and over a bridge alongside Mulshi dam, eventually took a left that got us to the point where we contemplating on the road to take many hours back. It was now ~3pm.

We caught hold of a roadside hotel and munched to glory with a few new made four-legged friends. Here Jay displayed his armored handgloves he did not wear the whole ride "Arrey.. I still need to get used to it man!". Preplanned to take a halt at one of the HP petrol pumps near Paud we rode on. Soon we arrived at the pump and fueled in. Post this I decided to take the lead and do something a ride mandates -speed and lean the bend. Pirangoot ghat saw me do that riding at 70+ leaning at the bends I let Jay get ahead post the ghat. The one thing I noted about Jay- he is a rider who exercises utmost caution, and this kept our speeds well within safe limits for all of the ride.

We took our final preplanned halt at Chandani Chowk for tea, where we ended up gulping coffee. The ride was amazing and perfect -adventure to the fullest. We did thank our lucky stars we did not have to face any mechanical or tyre failures. Bid our farewells. No sooner did I get home did I crash to the bed. It was ~4pm.

Late that evening, we office friends did have a family get-together at Chandani Chowk. This time I took my car :)

Jay's version of the story
A few snaps from the ride

Drenched to the N*&&s

2008-09-01T23:35:00.004+05:30

It was a wonderful day, had a beautiful ride on Saturday and here I was all ready to gym on Sunday afternoon. Took the long Sus road and burnt some fat, on the way back at about 5pm I decided to pay Sheetal a visit. Called him to ascertain he was around. He was.

Took the motocross path to reach Sheetal's place. The roads were wet with the recent showers. Had a wonderful time chatting out at Sheetal's place playing with his kid and relished some moth-watering idlis prepared by his wife. The discussion went all the way from good 'ol days to the current maket situation to Tom and Jerry! :D

It was 9pm and I had to return, the lightning bolts with thunder was simply unsettling. It was geting late with the rains picking up every minute. Eventually after checking a few times I decided to ride the rain. Sheetal and his better half persuaded me to wait on for more time, but it simply was too late and the rains too tempting. Accepted Sheetal's wind-sheeter to settle him down and stepped into the shower.

The rain was mild when I left and picked up as the engine roared to life. It gained some momentum as I got onto Aundh road and eventually struck hard at Breman circle. The university road stretch was like riding in an ocean. Water puddles everywhere and the clothes I wore made no sense. The wind-sheeter helped keep the needle drops away while the helmet protected my grey. In a few seconds I was sogging wet. My speed was at 50, the visibility was at a bare minimum with my fogging visor. Up it went. The cool drops kissed my face as it trickled down to wet the foam in the helmet. My eyes sensed the cool water as it itched and burnt my globes to free it of all dirt.

The water pounded against me as the skin shivered helplessly to the lashing streaks. The diminishing vision and the lowering speeds with some chilly gusts striking hard rattling my bike over to the untarred side of the tarmac. The puddles lost my tyres grip as I balanced the monster to the dark waters. Loosing direction and barely missing a tree I was back on the road. The cool -the chill -the shiver -the water seeping deep in my chinos, I was helpless. The wrist gripped the throttle as I hummed a few songs to keep the spirit alive. It helped. The University singnal came close as I rode on to S.B road.

The rains seemed relentless, my body grew warmer. I was sogging wet as I rode the empty stretch. The rains seemed invisible to me, it felt like petals flowing against my direction. The open visor let in the cool breeze as my wet face took every drop to cherish its presence. I looked up and around, the rains were there to stay, I smiled. Started humming some beautiful numbers and aloud at that. It was wonderful, simply seemed great -did not want the moment to end. Then came the signal. Somehow the rains seemed foolish at the signals, came straight and hardly got me wet. Many riders next to me were sogging wet as some shivered, some simply got comfortable with the conditions and others doned raincoats -YUKKKK! Why do you need rain coats ! (I ride wet to office as well man... common... enjoy the rains!).

The ride ahead saw the rains diminishing and eventually to drizzles. It was pretty tough to get off the seat, my clothes were a storage of water and each move got the pool cool touch from the wet fabric. I was back home - the ride had come to an end. Mom, Dad simply shook their heads - "When is this boy ever going to learn!.. atleast pretend!!"

Ride to bliss..

2008-09-01T01:16:00.014+05:30

Being fit and off injuries I really needed to do something over the weekend, the trek that was getting finalized never made it to the fin-ale. That's when Nachya told me of this TP ride to Thoseghar.

Saturday morning Nachiket, Amit, Ankush and me left from the sinhagad phata after the usual delays and troubles. Was there something on at BVP, many cars stopped by asking us for directions... Anyways, a hot cup of tea later astride our bikes we thudded down towards Katraj tunnel.

The weather which seemed to be gloomy in the morning gave way to white clouds and a glowing sun. Why did we get our set of change of clothes?! Old memories from the mega ride took over the senses as we zipped down the road at an average of 80kmph (it was sort of pre-decided -this being a short ride we don't do something stupid). Following lane rules and basic riding sense prevailed throughout the trip. We soon zipped past Natraj hotel and took our first break at the Bharat petrol pump. Nachya's bird started showing signs of the usual oil leak, but all was well and nothing serious. Amit got himself a new CBZ tyre for his Pulsar :-) but kept saying it was not grip-py enough, with a bent frame I fail to understand how can any rear tyre be grip-py. With the bike bellies full, we rode down the stretch of black tarmac.

Here we kept getting our bouts for the need for speed. Amit managed to touch 125 while I loved leaning low at various bends at over 90 (no I did not get to touch 3 digits). Nachya and Anky(pillion :D) simply thudded constant like sensible cruisers all the way at a near 80. Here we did some good riding as well, at a point we overtook an St. bus and the 3 of us simply rode like a chain, overtaking the bus- time seemed to pause as we rode at a constant 80 and the bus seemed to slow down as the lead pushed his left indicator and then we did as we serpented in front of the Bus and rode on. It was like one of those moments you get to se on TV, I witnessed it - one of the advantages of being a trailing rider :D.

Soon we arrived at Shirwal, our next planned halt and the odo clocked ~50kms. It seems Shirwal is famous for Wada paavs, so we took a halt at the famous Wada Paav center and ordered ourselves plates and plats of fresh wada's pohe sample etc etc. This place does seem to be a famous spot, many travelers had stopped by and then 2 bus loads of college/school goers got off to add commotion to the serene spot. Stuffing our mouths full with the left-overs we dashed away from the place and thudded on towards Khambatki.

Leaning and speeding Amit and me took a breif halt post the Khambati toll for the thunderbird to thud in. As it did we rode on, just to loose the bird to its constants. Khambatki Ghat is one awsome ghat to nourish and file your riding skills. Taking over buses and errant car drivers was a piece of cake, overtaking an SX4(for one)- who was plying smart ass was the best of the lot: Amit took right and me left as we got ahead leaving the driver with a wide open mouth.

The ensuing ride involved us geting ahead of each other at numerous ocations as the average speed shot up from ~80 to ~90 in my case. Eventualy came Satara Phata and soon directed everyone to take this exit, all assumed we had to take the second exit - whch was not the case.

Geting off the highway and riding down the single laned road to Satara city was cool and quiet. Geting off highway driving to city took a few minutes to adust so thuding by we came to the fork that would lead us down to the base of Ajinkyatara fort via the old city and eventualy Thoseghar.

We wanted to have tea, but no place around here offered tea so we rode down the very narrow streets of the old city as we came to the road end to take a right to the tunnel. I must say, we were quiet a sight - 4 riders all in attire and riding with a calm head (something that might be alien in these parts).

Post the tunnel we took a halt, just to regroup and Nachiket pointed to a sign board that read "ठोसेघर ला ज़ाणारा रस्ता बंद आहे ।". Oh common! Well so we caught hold of some locals and they said that bikes can go over the road, as I shed my philosophy of riding over landslides might be possible by bikes Yiekkes! Amit relished the distant sight of the windmill clusters oacross the valley behind Chandan-Vandhan forts.

The scene transformed from roads, vehicles and houses to distant mountains, a single grey carpet of road, green fluorescent pastures all around and the constant ups ad downs along the ride. The scene was beautiful and the helmet visor was a distraction - Up it went. The cool fresh breeze, the chirping of the birds, the soothing hues of green, the muffled thumps from our bikes, the riders going sea-saw over the carpet road at a constant pace - Bliss!

We stopped by at a couple of places asking for tea, and were directed to a place beyond a bridge where we would get some. Soon came the bridge and then the shop it had a board hording "wada paav, misal paav... ...". Amazing this was our next halt.

A couple of people in the shop said, the road was open and that bikes could go across, as the workmen at the site made sure bikes could get across. We were relieved. Here we befriended a dog. He seemed vicious at first- all black, lean-mean with deep tangy orange button eyes. A few whizzles and he still did not show interest, a couple of biscuits and he was all wags and kept stretching himself and came off his lair from under the bench and wagged to glory next to us. Anky probably presumed he should have been a public service guy as he posed in the drivers seat of a rickshaw. The tea was amazing and the biscuits were relished by all 5 of us (our new 4 legged friend remember).

A few bells and whizzles later we took the road leading to Thoseghar. The climate was fantastic and the views were crystal-clear. Sajjangad never looked better! The ride continued as we rode the wonderful tarmac in the blissful green surroundings. Soon we started riding over a ghat and eventually alongside Sajjangad but continued to our destination -Thoseghar.

Anky was riding Amit's pulsar took a turn at the ghat and slowed down. We thought, it could be the bad roads. Then we witnessed what the other guy meant when he said the workers made sure bikes could cross the road! The statement was literal!

The ghat road had caved in to the valley below, there was a huge trench in the road. The workers worked over the trench stuffing it with mud and all that can fill it. There was a small temporary plank set up against the hillside over the cut with various bamboo sticks acting as support pillars for the plank. The road was nothing more of a mud bath before that plank. So off we got our rides and pushed 'em across the makeshift road one at a time. The plank was strong, as the workers and various bystanders gave s huge smiles as we came to the other side.

Flashing 32 teeth later we rode on, the roads were lined with trees on both sides, the speed fell down to a soothing ~50 as we maintained good distance as we rode alongside green fluorescent pastures over the dips, rises and turns of the road. Soon we arrived at a board that read "दबदब्या कडे". We were at Thoseghar. Here we decided lets ride to Chalkewadi Windmills first and then get to the waterfall.

So on we rode, the road went up a hill and swindled around to the plateau on the hill the other side. Windmills started sprouting in the distance and the farm made itself visible. Here we took a halt, some snaps, enjoyed the views and injected ourselves further into the farm. The roads got from good to bad to worse. The distant valley across the plateau seemed beautiful as some mills were lost in clouds. The dark clouds with a mix of fresh white ones with the blue skies made for a wierdly sultrish and cool weather. We halted next to a functional huge windmill.

"Thrummmmpp.. Swooosshhh... Whisssskk..." The blades rotated with the breeze. Many of the mills were standstill. "Maybe the power supply is off in those mills" Amit joked. A few clicks, lots of art snaps in various angles against the sun made for some really cool snaps. Alas, I was tagged "talented photographer" and my mates were the lucky subjects. Many snaps later Anky said we had enough windmills for the day lets see something different like a waterfall maybe :).

So back we took the route downhill that twisted down to the signboard. From here we went a little ahead and took the little path to the Thoseghar dhaba. Parked our vehicles, and made ourselves comfortable at the eatery. Here we had to place our order before getting to the waterfall. So 8 pitla-bhakris (bajra) with some patal usal and anda burji was the order. Placed our helmets and jackets at the managers desk and made our hike to the waterfall.

The path was from behind the dhaba and down a fleet of steps. We kept gossiping and discussing all sorts of things, soon we came down to the concrete platform that was full of people. Three of four waterfalls were vibrant and the river down below did not hold a lot of water - just a reminder that it did not rain too much in these parts. Soon the group dispersed and we had the platform all to ourself to test our photographic talent.

A few minutes of snaps and off we were from the platform and found ourselves a new pathway along the hillside that in one way or the other led to a little bridge and across to a fence that eventually opened to the river that made up the waterfall. A group of people were already jumping for joy in the cool waters. Made our way over the rocks and enjoyed the wonderful scenes of little waterfalls and the rapids that let to the final fall.

Anky Nachya and me went over to the water while Amit decided to guard our bags. Nachya decided to head back and the 2 of us got off our shoes and crossed the water over to a little rock posing for snaps. The water packed a lot of force and that in itself explains why so many people loose their lives here on a regular basis.

It started drizzling and we headed back to the dhaba. This time we took a walk till the "waterfall" board and the road back to the eatery. The weather had gotten very humid and somehow all the colours around us were at a +10 contrast ratio.. everything seemed bright and the colours striking. "Maybe the city pollution dos'nt let us see clearly u see" commented Nachya.

Amazing lunch and a few extra bhakris made up for the course of the meal. Had a great time relishing the simple and lip smacking delicacies and the complementary "मिर्चि चा ठेचा". Of course a round of tea always ends a great meal :). The waiters, the hotel owners and the sneezing canines made us great company throughout the process. Post lunch we contemplated paying a visit to Sajangad. But with the clock showing 2 we were not too sure as we had to get home by dark. Amit insited we go there since wehad come here all the way.

The ride back was again cool, but faster (somehow return trips always seem to be fast). We quickly got to the cut road and with and instinct trodded across to the other side and rode on till the start of the Sajangad bifurcation. Our bullet that stayed behind simply thudded upwards, we were visiting Sajjangad.

The road to the top was narrow and full of mud. Lots of twists and twines and bad roads later we got to the parking lot atop. No one really was in the mood of climbing the steps to the top, so we decided to simply spend a few minutes. Chito chat and exploring my hydration bag later we got back to our saddle to hit the road.

The ride back was through a few light showers and wet roads. The speeds fell down. We took our next regrouping halt at the tunnel. From here we made our way to the city and took the old city roads after a few misses and back to the road that led to the highway. We could spot multiple cloud bursts in the grey skies at a distance. We touched the highway.

The speeds rose from a steady 60 to 80 in no time. The weather now, was still pretty humid. Our speeds were pretty consistent. All of a sudden the atmosphere got very cool and really cool like someone had opened a refrigerator door. It stayed this way for a few minutes as we rode over some wet patches on the highway. The water sprays from the rear wheels of the various vehicles made it seem those vehicles rode on air.

Then it happened a few drops and then more and then I could see white fog.. my visor was fogged up and the rains had picked up dropping the visibility considerably. Quickly spotted a tree, and took shelter under it. We waited for the picking rains to subside, a calf behind us also shivered in the cold. Here were discussed about how we missed the rain and got that as well -making this trip complete. The rains slowly subsided. We decided on our next halt at Shirwal post Khambatki.

The ride went on a few minutes over dry and wet and slippery patches as we averaged at ~80. Then the drizzles seemed to pick up near khambatki again. With an instinct all 3 rides stopped just before an exit.
Me : "Do you think it would rain man...what should we do?"
Nachya: "I guess lets keep going.."
Amit : (pointing a few meters ahead of us) "Look its raining there and nothing here"
Allof us laughed, and the rain picked up all over us as we scurried for shelter kicking the engines back to life!

Amit and Anky took a tin roof for shelter while Nash and me picked a hotel. The rains were bad and seemed merciless. We stood at our respective spots for about 15 minutes but the rain gods seemed to be too pleased with us and decided on not shutting the tap. Soon we called Amit and Anky to the hotel and settled in at a safe (non-wet that is) table. Amazing tea (2 for me) and lot of chats ensued this phase of the halt. Each one of us were in splits when we spoke of the way we scurried for shelter. The rains simply did not seem to settle.

The clock ticked from 4 to 4:45 at the hotel. Riding slowly in the rains too was a foolish decision to be taken so we decided to wait it out. At ~5 the rains seemed to give way, and we kicked our engines back to life over the wet roads.

In no time we were in the Khambatki ghat tunnel and the speeds still were at a good ~70. The rains were gone. Here Amit and Anky sped off at bottleneck speeds while I trailed Nachya for the rest of the ride. The weather was beautiful and all I could think of were songs... So many of them, I sung one after another also lost control a couple of occasions that mandated a high pitch selection :). But this was easily one of the best- technically sound parts of the bike ride - follow the lead, follow the rules, don't get intimidated by anything! We neared the toll Plaza near Shirwal.

We regrouped post the toll gate and decided on meeting at a pre-decided hotel post the Katraj Tunnel. The ensuing ride saw loads of traffic at Shirwal but effectively decent stretches till Pune. Riding through the Katraj tunnel was bliss with roads all to ourselves. A couple of indicas enjoyed driving alongside us but seemed to have a tough time keeping up with us.

Eventually we got off the highway near Sinhagad phata and took a break at the hotel. Exchanged high-fives a few stretches and an amazing round of tea. Lots of talk later we decided to call it a day before making sure -make it to another similar ride very soon!

Amit and Anky took the highway and that's when we realized the bird caught her first flat in 27K kms! We did had to spend a few minutes at the tyre repair shop where the mechanic had a tough time getting the wheel off the ride. Well eventually in about half hours time the deal was done and we took back to the polluted interiors of Pune city.

Needless to say, I lost Nachya on the way back home just to reconfirm his arrival on SMS. We eventually were back home :).
Nachya's version of the story.
Pics from the ride

Dug up ride...

2008-08-24T23:15:00.005+05:30

"Pune Municipal Corporation ki jay"... Dunno who so ever is ever going to say that. Its something part of a far fetched reality. Have faced the brunt on numerous occasions.

This one happened yesterday, was on my way to the Baner office Gym. The roads were pretty ridable till about near the Rajwada hotel , then starts the waltz (dhik tak tak ...dhik tak tak ..dhik tak tak .. dhik.. tika tika). The 2 ways trurn to one, the road transforms to a mud path. But still, atleast, looks ridable. A couple of confused cars and a huge confused truck were lost what to do where to go, an auto driver ahead kept a cool head and helped the helpless truck driver get on the left sideof the right road so that all the cunjested vehicles on the 2 sides of the right road get to move .. wow.. weird... and I thought rick. drivers only knew to keep a sour face!

Well, riding a bike has its own plus-es you see, a. You can sneak through any nook and corner b. You zip past crunchiest of situations and c. potholes or not ou can manage your wheels over them! JFYI, all the 3 points mean the same :P

Riding through the raising slush and the road getting ever narrow I happened to realize the rest of the cut-off road was actually laid with a cement block and pedestrians were having a ball walking causally aimlessly, one of the many advantages of putting 2 legs to the test.

Riding on came another hurdle, the road disappeared and it seemed to transform into a trekking trail as it took a right(!!!) towards the petrol pump. I was confused what to do, and found that following the rider ahead actually helped as we steered via the petrol pump and out to the trek track again. So effectively we crisscrossed the oncoming traffic.

Now I could vaguely see the twin towers of my Baner office, but the track made me gaze more onto the road/track/path (whatever). Then the front wheel goes thud into a trench (acually a dried up lorry tyre track) and then I race and get the wheel out and the back wheel followed suite, mind you I did not loose my cool neither did the rider behind me nor the maruti car guy coming onto me -probably he made calculations for his assault plan.

Suddenly the track ended and the road opened to a barricade. A trench was dug up perpendicuar to the road with barricades against it. The road was shut. My office was 10 meters ahead and the road was shut. The oncoming traffic was a huge single-file-stream as they came from the right corner of the road through a narrow pass over the trench -so could not take that route.

That's when I noticed the brave ninja riders. On any other given day, I would always tend equating them to "hassle and worry" of the road. Not today. This is what I saw,
The ninja behind got off her seat and whispered some secret mantra to the riding ninja and then they exchanged looks (play the huge GONG/CLANG that's heard before a martial bout). Slowly she purred her scooty to the right side of the trench where the barricade ended and poof she steered left and rode down into the trench! What the! I could still see her scarf moving along and her pillion scarf trodding behind her, then like a miracle they started to emerge from the left end of the trench on the other side. They exchanged glances some mantras looked backed at us and rode away to glory (play the huge GONG/CLANG that's heard after a martial bout).

Well soon me 'n other 2 wheelers followed suite. The entry to the trench was actually not a motorable pass at all, just a dug-out that led down and then there was a plank that bridged to the other side. In we went and out we came and there the road was slaughtered again. A small patch of road led to my office premises and the other was the suppositedly motorable concrete road (just looked like a long long block of concrete to me on which vehicles moved).

The guard was elated to see me (some guts a guy has to do all these idiocycs just to get to office on a weekend!), so I asked him since when and why was this done. He kept saying no one listens, they should not have closed the road etc etc... but he was damn happy to see me :).

So up I went and shed over 350cals at the treadmill and over 150 at the cycle and much much more at other equipments. Flushed and tired after over 2 hours and a cup of curd I was back at the parking lot ready to make my way back home.

Having faced the music on the way here, I had hardly any problems to face -just had to get over a some rubble and then back track a few times around office since they shut off the only road (thanks to my new sec. guard friend they opened the road for me). Well then riding along-over the potholes and via the petrol pump and eventually onto tarmac was a piece of cake. After all that, I needed to stretch my engine to its limits so got onto ITI road and eventually via Aund-Univ road hit a good 3digits and the same on S.B. road finally the silent gullies led me back home.

And today, the story was all the same :-), after burning another 400cals end up taking the return via Baner Pashan road (a new rugged one that leads to Sus road). Met Avik, Paromita 'n family at Chandani Chowk had a great 3 to 4 hours there before getting through another challenge, the weirdly concretized Kothrud and the ever crowded roads on the night of "Dhai-Handi"!

Who said you need to get out to the mountains for a dirt track ride, welcome to Pune!

Walk to Parvati..

2008-08-21T20:20:00.016+05:30

The weekend went dead boring with me just siting it out at home doing nothing. Some appointments were canceled and my monsoon sickness made me tug in 3 sets of blankets.

I had to get out of home and take a walk.

Keeping the spirits up and with a temperature and few sneezes left home at about 6 in the evening and with an instinct took a right and decided to hit the Paravati hill top. Having watched Aamir and many other movies over the weekend , the verses kept playing in my ears....

"Aani Jaani Hai Kahani,
Bulbule Si Zindagani
Banthi Kabhi Bigadthi
Tez Hawa Se Ladthi Bidthi
Ha Reham Ha Reham Farmaaye Khuda(2)
Mefuz Har Kadam Karna Eh Khuda Eh Khuda(2)"

The weather was cool, but no traces of rain. The last couple of days were pretty dry. Walked down the small allies of lokmanaya nagar as I came on the road adjoining S.P. college grounds. The roads were crowded this time, soon crossed over at Neelayam chowk past Vikrant cables. Here I noticed a new book store "Pathfinder" next to Ashoka Hotel, so decided to pay it a visit on my way back incase I retraced my steps.

Parvati looked as good as ever. Parvati is a wonderful hill bang in the middle of the city, and I still dont understand why so few people know of it! Such a quaint and lovely place (err.. its been over 3 years since I myself paid it a visit :P). Walked past Neelayam theater which was all empty and it hosted a couple of movies, "Sing Is King" was one of them.

"Saanson Ki Sukhi Door Anooti Jal Jaayegi Jal Jaayegi
Bandh Jo Laaye the Haath Ki Mutti, Khul Jaayegi Khul Jaayegi
Kya Ghumar Karen Kayaa Yeh Ujali Mitti Mein Mil Jaayegi
Chaahe Jithni Shamayein Roshan Kar Le, Roop To Dhal Jaayegi Jaayegi
Ha Reham Ha Reham Farmaaye Khuda(2)
Mefuz Har Kadam Karna Eh Khuda Eh Khuda(2)"

I was pretty happy with my steady pace, maybe my walking habits are not that bad afterall. Climbed up the Bridge over the Water Canal and eventually waded my way past a few lazy cows as a couple of people took blessings from the creatures. The helpless policeman simply sat at the side chatting with his colleague :).

They have renovated Paravati- a new arched entrance and some more arches on the top. I was wondering if I can still go up in one shot, I mean its been a long time since I have trekked anyways. So took on the angled slabs of ~300 steps that curved its way to the temple premises atop. Noticed many old folks sitting on benches in the dimming light and some enthusiastic oldies climbing up at a constant pace zig-zagging over the steps so they get to walk more :). These people are true inspiration for the many loosers we have warming their butts in the cosy A/c infested interiors of various organizations. I mean one look at their enthusiasm with wrinkles and pooof you get all charged up to do the exercise(climb in this case) better. I did that ... my pace did not falter its stride, maintained the same speed I did since I left home.

Finally atop, post the final few killer steps (why do the last steps always kill you! ), I was at the temple premises unsurprisingly breathing heavily still not that tired. Stood there and took in the surrounding views - distant houses, rivers, green canopy of the city. The city is still green no two ways about it, but yes.. it is diminishing.

"Sone Chamak Mein, Sikko Kanak Mein Miltha Nahin, Miltha Nahin
Dhool Ke Zaroon Mein, Dhunde Koi Tu Miltha Wahin Miltha Wahin
Kya Majaal Teri Marzi Ke Aage, Bandhon Ki Chal Jaayegi
Taane Ugli Jo Tu Katputhli Ki Chaal Badal Jaayegi Jaayegi
Ha Reham Ha Reham Farmaaye Khuda(2)
Mefuz Har Kadam Karna Eh Khuda Eh Khuda(2)"

Soon made my way through the premises to the backyard of the temple. Unfortunately there is a door now and it was locked. Maybe it was to keep miscreants away from the temple. Who knows. So just stood there took a bit of what I could see around before retracing my steps. The cell network is jammed up here.

The way down was pretty quick and steady. Back down tried to contact Andya, unfortunately his mobile was out of coverage. Retraced my steps via Neelayam and payed the bookstore a visit. The store is like a mini version of Landmark/Crosswords. The walk back was nothing different and was home in no time.

Mom was surprised I was back after climbing Paravati so soon. Hmm.. maybe I am not all that flab after all :)

"Ha Reham Ha Reham… Ha Reham Ha Reham….Ha Reham Ha Reham… (3)"

4 to 8

2008-08-15T23:45:00.005+05:30

15th August.. today was independence day... gave it a slow start at about 12 in the afternoon. Hardly could sleep the previous night, no reason why. Anyways the day was all dull with dark clouds and too many missed signs of heavy downpour. Also being 'VaraLaxmi Nombu' a religious ceremony, mom had prepared some delicacies that kept me full.

The missed calls and independence messages kept me busy as I learnt Addy bought a cycle today ...AgggGHHH oh.. the frustration!!. Got all fresh and ready leave for a casual walk as the dark clouds separated at intervals to show blue.

It was 4.

Off I went, as I decided my usual path down Aalka via Deccan and then return via FC road before stopping by Sharwari for tea. But then I thought of adding in some extra miles. So started walking down the empty roads( the newspapers did predict -Pune roads would be empty this weekend for too many bookings were reported by MTDC at various green destinations on the long weekend). Past Alaka and down Deccan ,decided on checking out Shoppers Stop at Wakedewadi as they had an on-going Sale.

Walked under the Garware bridge past the Deccan bus stop, as I helped some lost riders find Laxmi Road, furthur down the Stretch of JM road alongside Shambaji Park post which I crossed over to Ghole road. Here I planned to take the route till NewEnglish school then past the parking lot area to Shimla office.

As I passed Modern School, there was a lot of chaos from the premises as kids participated in various organized sports events. Walking past the Recreation center, I cherished memories of the days I used to play badminton. Soon crossed over to the Parking lot as I walked down the quiet neighborhood and eventually came out the main road at Simla office then walked over the Sanchati bridge and eventually past Patil-estate. At last walked by the complex that held @HOME and Shoppers Stop.

The place was crowded. Cars were parked on the roads 2 wheelers were stuffed in the parking lot. Took the steps to the shop as I wiped the perspiration off my face. I was quick to jog up to the second floor to the casuals section and just as immediately started scanning for green 6-pocket cargos. My current cargo was showing traces of fatigue (if you know what I mean). So scanning up and down the various piles of discounted clothes I eventually gave up and started scanning for a pair of jeans (my current sets share a bad fairy tale). I wanted black so scanned all of the 34" blacks and tried one but hated it it for some weird textures.

Off I went to the far end section of "Branded" (as in costlier) clothes and scanned through their discounts, here I finally tried and picked myself a 36" black jeans branded "MUFTI" at 30% discount. The place was full of clothes and sale. I mean the cashier too was trying to make me buy an ad-on shoppers stop card for 100/- and on my denial he said he would give me some free mp3 CD that pictured the grey bearded BigB. I insisted I pay only for the clothes and no plastic cards :).

Here I asked the cashier to pack the clothes in 2 sets of covers since I'd be walking and chances of getting the clothes wet in rain were high. Dunno what the guy thought, he said "ok sir, I will place in another cover and then you can cover it when it rains, you can also exchange the clothes in 15 days".. did he think I was one of those asking for 2 covers!!! Well I nodded neither yes or no.. I just let a tremor visible on my head :P.

Finally give Crosswords a ritual checkout before zipping down the stairs for my walk back home. The weather was cool with dark clouds. So back I headed past the Wakedewadi underway past Agricultural college and finally onto FC road. Here I followed one of my next rituals of spending some time at Sharvari over a cup of tea. Unfortunately I had to sit inside and not in the balcony since they were expecting rains .. yeah right!! So there I sat sipping my tea as I overheard some aunties behind me gossiping about their daughters and in-laws in the states in "hi-fandu' English ...

Tea came .. gulped down the brew as the 2 of the 3 girls in front of me ordered pav bhaji and the 3rd one (all makeup and lipstick) possibly nodded in denial but insisted she was hungry (what did she want.. pav bhaji with no butter 'n bhaji !?.. maybe some slices of cucumber and lemon juice.. who knows.. ). Their final order was long as I plonk-ed two 5Rupee coins onto the waiters hand before leaving.

So I continued my walk and finally took the Good Luck Cafe gully and past Deccan Gymkhana and eventually walked via ASC(now Cox and Kings). Cherished fond memories of my first office. I just stood there for a minute and could visualize- me dressed in formal black and white on my first interview as I walked off the ASC gate to my parked Kinetic. Walking down these roads with many new made friend and of course the very favourite hangout from college days as well- Rutuja. Gave a smile and smirked as I walked on.

Took the gully that leads bang on to the Garware Gate, here I decided to take the road towards Null stop rather than the usual Garware college bridge road. I had heard a lot about Surendar cycles from the bikeszone community, wanted to give it a 'dheko'. I knew I would not buy anything now, but I just wanted to see this shop. So on I went down the length of Karve road. Just before the Ranka signal, came the Hercules Cycles Surendar cycles shop. This shop looked good and well maintained. I could spot numerous Hercules and LAS models, also noticed a Trek 4300 hung off the wall inside. Well just walked past it, day-dreaming of me paying an amount for a wonderful ride, and took the gully at the signal as I walked down past the hospital and finaly onto Garware Causeway bridge.

Here, I hardly noticed any couples .. which was weird. All I saw were pairs of guyz everywhere. As I walked past all I overheard was various narrations of "I like this girl... he said he likes her... she said no.. she is too modern rao.." Man!!! Looks like the girls gifted themselves a leave today:).

Mom asked me to pickup an insect killer spray so I walked down Vaikuntroad and off Date Studio and into Food World as I picked myself a Mortein spray and a loaf of Plum Cake.

Back home. The clock struck 8. The TV played a tamil movie where Shriya and Dhanush danced around trees.
:|

A fascinating gift...

2008-08-04T01:06:00.003+05:30

I always wanted to have one of these bags with a tube jutting off it (Hydration bags). The first time I ever got to see (and sip from) one of these was during my paragliding courses. No sooner did Avi (my instructor) show his hydration pack did we jump like thirsty monsters and almost finished off the whole reserve :). It was a "camelback" hydra-pack I guess.

The concept is really cool. A simply backpack with a 1-2 liter plastic bag that holds the fluid (water/hydration supplements err.. err...) and a tube that comes off it with a rubber stopper like thing at the other end from which you suck the liquid. Its really a handsfree water bottle for that matter.

So ok it looks fascinating, how was it supposed to practically help me other than looking like a showoff item? This backpack can come handy in almost any situation you demand (so long as you don’t feel weird wearing and sucking water off the tube). Practically accepted of course in any adventure/outdoor activity you demand - trekking / bicycling / paragliding / snowboarding / jogging / motor-biking etc etc. I mean if you get too geeky you could sit with one in your office cubicle as you type away... but that’s the reason mentioned the previous list under 'Practically accepted" else you would end up in the wild with hoards of people sucking water in a ration queue or at the bus stop... aggh... my thoughts running wild.

I was meeting Sriram (my cousin) after a long long time. We chatted a lot and he gifted me this backpack and said "you can fill water in this...", I said "oh wow ... its a hydration bag...", he said "yes... here you go". Wow.. I was really happy and am, really, still admiring the bag. It’s a blue "High Sierra" 2 liter Hydration bag. Its amazing - its a very good-go for a small hike (single day) also has a provision to hold you helmet (cycling) and a hook to hang all sorts of things. Really really cool.

Just another reason to get my bums on the saddle again! :)

Lo kallo baat !

2008-07-18T15:16:00.007+05:30

As I write this post , I am reminded of Namak Hallal - "Lo kallo baat ! Arre babuji aisi English aave that I can leave Angrej behind!! You see sir, I can talk English, I can walk English, I can laugh English because English is a very funny language. ..."

Well I had to face the music myself. English sure is a funny language. When "I can do something" or "something can be done by me" while "something could have had been done by me" and definitely "if I will have said to have had done something" then it does get confusing.

I was hit bad by the tense bug. In a mail I wrote , there was a statement "GroupA have not tested the same with FEATURE-X enabled since there seems to have had been an understanding that the feature enablement would only be for ProductA and not ProductB" . The bold-ed text created all the confusion and made my head go spin.

Mandar refused to believe I was correct and Piyush eventually agreed I was right. I had to give them this explanation (my explanatory-knowledge for verbs and pronouns nouns etc, has taken a downward fall, hence could not explain the same in those contexts but rather in a more manageable and layman-ish way) This is what I said:

"The only other possibility was "since they seem to have had and understanding...." now since I used past participle with reference to an event .. the "since they..." changes to "since there..." and so " seem" would change to "seems" so "since there seems to have.." .. now the tense I use is past participle in perfect tense .. hence the "had" comes into play and so "since there seems to have had" now if I say "since there seems to have had an understanding" then this statement refers to a void which would mean that the understanding was done by "there" where there refers to nothing (basically a bad grammatic construct).. so we have to use "been" and then it creates the bridge between the referrer and the referee so the statement becomes "...since there seems to have had been an understanding...". Maybe I am completely wrong .. but this is what I believe in and would not budge from it." (I agree my knowledge of pas perfect and participle is jolly bad here- but does not mean my sentence is bad )

I know its too lame and loose to prove my statement. Mandar stood his ground saying "Your sentence is a very good example of Pig's English. I was taught Queen's English at school."

And so I started to read of past , present, past perfect, present perfect, past/present perfect continuous tenses. Oh man! am I out of touch with the basics of grammar! Sure I can speak right but ask me to explain in terms of tenses and verbs and adjectives etc etc. you will enjoy watching me go blank and dumb :)

So yes as for my sentence which created the confusion , I am jolly happy its correct but feel irritated not to give it a convincing explanation!

Hike...

2008-07-16T20:32:00.007+05:30

What is it about salary hikes, why all the fuss? the mental attitudes? and make and break of good ties. Well hikes is money and nothing but that could be the sole culprit of this fuss.

Edya: Hey man you met you manager today, so what are the figures dude.. .how much??
Idiot: Ummm.. no man... just met him for some work related stuff...
Edya: Ah ok....
Sometime later Idiot thinking to himself...

Idiot: Saala is manager ki to ... mujhe 5% hike aur Megaidiot ko 20%!!! aur yeh Edya to yeda hi hai .. paise ka kuch lena dena hi nahi ...

Sometime later...
Megaidiot: HEy dude... wazzup
Edya: HEy man... so how much ...
Megaidiot: Ah.. how much can the company afford man.. the same .. not much same as everyone.. (smiles and giggles)
Edya: (Suspicious) Hmm true... see ya

Sometime earlier...
Idiot: How much did you get man...
Megaidiot: HEy don't tell anyone but I got 20% what about you...
Idiot: I don't know.. yet to meet the manager...

in a few minutes...
Manager: Idiot... you have gotten 5%
Idiot : (heart sinks)... why
Manager: blah blah blah blah blah .....
Idiot: BLAH.. BLAH .. BLAH .. BLAH..!!!
Manager: blah blah blah
Idiot: (thinking to himself) Saala... Megaidiot gets 20 and me 5 :(

Back to current times...
Edya Pagal and Gandela discussing the hikes they just got

Edya: Damn this manager man... just 4% ... return me my lent money guyz :( :) (trying hard to smile)
Pagal: Haan kya ... what happened inside? What did you tell the manager...
Edya: blah blah blah blah....
Gandela: OK...
Pagal: Do you know Idiot already knows his percentage.. saala jhoot bolta hai...
Edya: hmm (trying hard to keep up with reality thinking to himself) people getting 13 15 and 10 % hikes .. dammit
Gandela: Well that means Pagal has to give the party .. the max percentage amongst us
Pagal: Pagal ho gaye ho kya.. We need the party from Gandela for his numbers !
Edya: First return me my lent money .. my bank account is running dry :)

All characters in this story are fictitious and any resemblance with any one alive or dead is purely coincidental :)

Back to Sketching...

2008-07-15T15:32:00.008+05:30

"वळू मंझॆ देवाच्या नावाने सोड्लेला बैल।"... That's how the movie Valu starts off. A very cool and cozy movie. Hilarious and witty too. Loved this movie so much so, bought a DVD of the same.

Soon I decided to rekindle one of my old hobbies - drawing/sketching. So one fine day post office rode down to Venus Traders and picked myself a "good-quality" sketch book and a few pencils. The next couple of days were spent simply admiring the quality of that sketch book :). Well I had to draw and I needed a subject, so my first sketch was that from a news paper. Not too great but just gave me a feel of things.

The following day, I decided to sketch something from Valu. So decided on picking up a scene from the movie where a sketchup of the wild bull is presented. It did seem pretty simplistic, but getting back to the sketching lingo took a few minutes to get used to.

Eventually in about an hour's time at about 12:30am mid-night I was done with my sketch. And boy did it come out well.. it really looked good, this is how it looked:Got a lot of appreciations from friends and family and that made me play more with that pic. Also the fact that some of my friends did not know about my drawing abilities, they simply mocked me saying I modified the original image in some image editing software :), this remark in itself was one of the best appreciations I could get. So took this picture used Adobe Photoshop to add a few colors and man did it come out well:
Just hope to keep up with more sketches, it sure is a stress buster! Still remember the way I got engrossed simply shading the bull, every stroke had to be light and right the choice of pencils had to be correct and the fingers had to quickly brush the lead to shade it right.

Mardana hike...

2008-06-08T17:44:00.016+05:30

This was pictured about a year or more back with Amty spelling Sagargad in all styles and rhymes. Amty cried again Sagargad and we went on this trek on Saturday with Amty and nike being the drop offs :P

The day started with me shedding some skin and blood to PMC's wonderful work off Ganeshkind road. The delayed start got us off Ady's house by about 6:30am having picked Anpy and Jay from their locations we were soon cruising (err.. going ... the sumo driver was a cautious slow coach :-) ) the expressway. Took our first halt at the food mall post Malawli where we relished on some sumptuous pohe and tea. Anpy always seemed to to get the bigger share of cake :P.

Soon we took the Khopoli exit and took the road towards Pen. The roads were good and they were tolled :(. Soon we rode past Pen got off the NH17 and took on the Alibaugh road. Post some inquiries took the straight road leaving the Alibaugh bifurcation behind (Alibaugh was some 4 kms from here). Few villages later we reached Khanadle and took the kuccha path to the start of the climb.

Siddeshwawadi is nothing more than a collection of a few hutments. This is where our hike took its start(~10:30 am). We already had spotted the Siddheshwar Math waterfall. The path was broad and straightforward. The place was green and the weather was humid. The reptiles and crabs kept dancing around as were moved ahead. A few clicks and some hike later we reached the steps that go up to Siddheswar Math and Sagargad.

These steps really were not a spoiler, it was the weather that seemed to take a toll on us. Up steady incline, a consistent pace and glasses of sweat later we came up to a point from where we got a wonderful view of the waterfall and the twin domes of the Math atop it. This was our first halt for the day. Anpy soon carried on. At this place there was little hump to the right from where we got a stupendous view of the surroundings, unfortunately the day was cloudy but thankfully this place being in the open was windy and kept the humidity at bay. Before we could leave we spotted the racing Anpy atop at a huge distance :) (~11am).

The path ahead was a little forgiving, in the sense there were not much steps and the inclination was not too steady and steep. Very soon we walked through 2 logs of wood (like a gate) and were at the bifurcation. The path ahead (right) led down to the Math and the left going up went to Sagargad. Anpy was missing, we assumed him to be at the Math so went down and called out for him a lot, in response we had two dogs barking back at us from the closed doors of the Math. Well we decided to move on assuming Anpy to be somewhere atop.

The rest of the path was not too inclined and soon we came up to a clearing and saw a few village houses, post some inquiry we got directions and carried forth and passed another few houses and saw Anpy in a distance next to a stream dancing and waving out at us. He had gotten the direction for the fort and so we carried on with his lead. The path went through many paths and then we started following stones with marked arrows and also some locals giving us directions. The path later went into clouds and visibility dropped to a few meters. Soon the path started going down along the edge of the hill.

We reached a place where there was an idol with sindoor tikas all over it, next to it was a dome like stuff out of rubble (we assumed it to be one of the 7 tombs of satichi maal) (~12 pm). The path then went from the right as we followed arrows and went up and reached a plateau with a hump in dense clouds. A little wandering later we went up the hump which seemed to be organized in 2 or 3 layers. A few bells and whizzles later we decided to carry on.

Here again we took a path that went up the right edge and reached the top at a clearing. This plateau was huge, I mean really huge. It was littered with Karwandache jhaad :). We wandered a little and came to this spot where we could hear weird noises "pwan pwanpwan... durr bruuk". And the noise was loud- animated. Thats when we spotted huge I mean huge toads along the little lakes. They were plain noisy man!

Being cloudy with the consistent drizzles we could not spot VanarLingi pinnacle ('arrey ek vanar disat nahi ahe .. tyache lingi kutthun disnaar' as Ady put it :-) ). This is where the major attraction of the trek, as Anpy put it "wassol zhalli ahe", started -Plucking and munching on sweet and sour karwande of the millions hanging off the thousands of trees. This session just never seemed to end, Jay was tossing in the black fruit like he were munching groundnuts! Lots of persuals later we go on to get inside the fortification section. The path was from the left side.

This is when the rain picked up. Inside it was a tick jungle, we had to bend and jump over shrubs and cobwebs a lot. Soon we walked past a couple of good clearings and explored the length and breath of this place. It was just ruins and shrubs all around. Here we picked a spot in the clearing and had our lunch - curd rice, shira parathe ladoo was the menu of the hour. We lazed a little and decided to move on. (~1:30pm).

We explored a little more, but really found nothing other than ruined walls and thickets. backtracking proved to be a tough job too, with the jungle and numerous path ways it was easy. Btw. Anpy had filled in a bag full of karwande by now. I even got to see the fruit the size of a plumb! Mushrooms in this area too were weird, like round balls on the ground looked like dried lemons.

The return hike got us off the hill, clouds and the dhaba dhab rains and we were down on the green plateau. Here we lost Anpy and lots of confusion later we were back together and tracking our way back to the village. Once at the village we spent some time at the stream and had a good time cracking jokes and dancing fools around. Now the clouds had given way and the skys were open. We could spot the Arabian sea in a distance. Oh what a wonderful sight it was! It felt really good and different, I mean you are on a hill fort and you can see the ocean ahead- thats something different. (~2:30pm)

We hiked on and got down to the Siddheshwar Math. The dogs were missing and so were any souls. The place was quit and cool- just the rubbish the idiotic picnic crowds litter around was visible down the slopes and next to the waterfall. The arabian sea again made a wonderful sight from here. Soon left the Math behind and we made a slow cautious descent down the slippery steps to the ground below. The humidity was on.

Singing songs and yapping all sorts of things and just about anything; we came down to the start of the steps and took the walk back to our parked sumo. Here we changed over to dry clothes and made a move. (~5pm).

Enroute we halted at Pen for some snacks and rode on, spotted many other hill forts on the way back as we hit the expressway via Khalapur. By now we were taking nap breaks as we slowly went by the crowded expressway that we eventually got off and dropped Jay at Chinchwad station and Anpy at his house.

Eventually Ady and me got back home and a hot cup of tea later I slowly and cautiously made my way back home astride the now bruised CBZ.

This was an eventful trek- the accident, the humid climb, the karwande trees , the clouds, the sight of the Arabian sea and so much more! The good news -I am not fractured and the better news -take a week's rest :).

Fits...

2008-05-09T18:34:00.010+05:30

Fits they sway, took me away

got me grip, took me astray

Wattery bushes, the pinch of chill
An-other path, for hill and thrill

Deep ravines oh slippery cliffs
make a stride, total a'bliss

Oh gosh oh my, I had to fly
the amber sheet, held me a'fleet

Distance cloud the horizon sight
Another dream, got me a'flight

Brooks and hill loot me at will
Pastures they, carpet my stay

Flight away, walk away
Summer-white-sun sweat away

Legs are two, now wheels are two
Rusty thumps, made freinds a'new

Blistering breeze, flying trees
Goals the same, but roads a'new

Dream again, say 'o change
Cycle a day keeps the doctor away

let a-lone, desires oh moan
Bushy greens, reds of day
oh no oh wait, the fits 'a gone, 'a gone astray

Some asked me what in the world this poem meant? Well I wanted to speak a lot in a few words and hence such choice of words.
Here we go...

"Fits they sway, took me away
got me grip, took me astray"

Fits here is a metamorpic to intrests/desires/passion etc. So when ever I get such fits, I am overwehlmed by them and get onto newer and untouched terrotories...

"Wattery bushes, the pinch of chill
An-other path, for hill and thrill
Deep ravines oh slippery cliffs
make a stride, total a'bliss"

I sortof started my recent adventures with treks and those were in the monsoons, so the consistant cold and chill brezze was a constant companion as we walked through various terrains. Never did the chill or the rain or any of the slips ever hinder our stride. So basically we simply enjoyed the trek.

"Oh gosh oh my, I had to fly
the amber sheet, held me a'fleet
Distance cloud the horizon sight
Another dream, got me a'flight"

Then came paragliding, where in I ejoyed the wonderrous views of the deep valley under my feet and the awsome surroundings. The "amber sheet" is basically the paraglider.

"Brooks and hill loot me at will
Pastures they, carpet my stay
Flight away, walk away
Summer-white-sun sweat away"

After the paragliding stint I was back to trekking, and was back walking in the mountains and green fields and eventually to summer treks.

"Legs are two, now wheels are two
Rusty thumps, made freinds a'new
Blistering breeze, flying trees
Goals the same, but roads a'new"

Then came the motorbiking stint, where in I made a long journey down till Karnataka and back and made many good friends in the process. This was again with the same motto of adventure and having fun in the great outdoors so nothing really as different to trekking/paragliding, hence I say "Goals the same, but roads a'new"

"Dream again, say 'o change
Cycle a day keeps the doctor away
let a-lone, desires oh moan
Bushy greens, reds of day
oh no oh wait, the fits 'a gone, 'a gone astray"

Finally came my desire to get on a bicycle, and so much research and dreams were fueled into this that I was bitten too bad by the bycycling bug. But none-the-les I was not able to get one, so was let down and got off mood and hence the last para says the fits are fading away.

-Vindy

Die Cast...

2008-05-03T22:27:00.014+05:30

I really always had a fascination towards die cast models. As a kid had a huge collection of die cast cars especially "Hot Wheels". Also had one of those tracks. Was a Gi-Joe fan as well.. if you get me started I would be talking about toys for ages and probably start behaving like a kid.

Off late, I learnt about these precise replica models of cars and bikes. Was really impressed by the 1:18 sized miniatures of all bike brands .. May it be the Yamaha YZF R1 or the MV Agusta Brutale or the Suzuki GXR or the Harleys ... anything. I was impressed. These were precise scaled replicas of the original models and this company, Maisto, had special licenses to produce these.

I wanted one of these and was craving for one. Especially clubbed with my like for photography and one of these beauties, the horizons were limitless :).

Last week, on labor day, paid a visit to Landmark stores. While dad purchased a truckload of Carnatic music CDs I decided to loiter around the toy section. Soon was drooling over the 1:18, 1:12 replicas. Dad too teamed in and we both were picking boxes and saying "Had addu been here he would had ripped the store apart..." (Addu .. my 4 year old nephew). Well we were craving for those models.

The following day on my way back from office, I decided to stop by at Popular toy store. Sure I let Landmark pass. There is something about Popular - I mean I bought my huge collection of little cars from there as a kid :).

I sure was feeling weird to step into a toy store and look around for a toy Bike. It felt weird, but still I confidently marched up the stairs to the shop. The shop has not changed one bit, its just the way it was some 15 or more years back. Soon one of the attendants asked me what I wanted, and on my response he pointed me to the Maisto boxes. Geeeezzz... these metal toys looked beautiful! I literally picked every box and was eventually stuck to a couple of 1:12 models. On my query for additional models he pointed me to a Suzuki GXR, it was drool maal, but I was really all teeth with the blue Yamaha R1 and the Aprilla RSV1000.

Soon I inquired about bicycle replicas, and this is where the owner stepped in. It did not take me a second to recognize him! He was still the same -sure older than what he was when I was a kid. So he searched around for bicycles. Unfortunately they did not have them in stock.

When I told the owner that I did not want models to be gift wrapped or anything, both the owner and the shop attendant were all giggles- right this guy is buying toys for himself !!! hahaa... I enjoyed it as well and shared with him the bonds I had with his shop. He was extremely pleased to hear the same, and took down my number - just in case he got a shipment of bicycles :D.

Back home dad loved those models and was drooling over them like kid, me alike. Mom kept saying don't keep those in the open they would get dusty. Soon had a photographic session at night and slightly better one the next day -thats today. Was fun.

Just cant wait to add more to the couple! A car -1:12 would be a right blend/subject for a snap eh!.

What say! Muaahahahahaaaa

Meetup Break..

2008-04-27T18:36:00.004+05:30

Almost all of us who discussed were too "sure" to meetup. The day was set to monday but our Sardaar declared his presence today (Friday) so we decided to meetup the same day.

Avik/Yogesh did not team in since they had other appointments and the rest of the folks were safely assumed to be out of the meet. A few final phone calls and mails later Piyush and me left from offie at about 7:15 pm negotiating the buggy traffic. Piyush was to pick sanjay from Mayfair whilst I voulenteered to go pickup the injured Sardaar(Sheetal) from his place at Aundh.

Nice chitchats snacks and tea later left with sardaar towards Chandani Chowk where we were to meet Sanjay and Piyush.

It was roughly 8:30pm when we met the duo in a smoke could at Chandani Chowk. Soon we decided to have dinner at Oasis and made a dash for the hotel. There was just 1 table for us and we took it. I mean it was near the entry, but really for people like us nothing matters. Soon the Carnivorous drunks ordered their share of booze and meat whilst I picked on some soda and 'ghaas puus'.

The talk wavered from what we were all upto to what all we did to what all we have been doing to what all we should have done. So we decided on picking up one of our un-present mates and make a mockery out of him. Soon everyone teamed in and added spice and garlic to the topic. The night was warm and it was getting foggy with the chain smokers not quiting their routine and was geting shaky with the boozers not failing to order another.

Time went by and we (at least me) came to realize all we had were some starters and a lot of 'chakna', had to order something for us starving cows. A few rotis daal and rice was the only menu for the night. So we spoke of what we could do and why we did what we did and how doing what we were not supposed to do actually made us feel right in doing what we did (agghhh!). So as we discussed one of our drunks started to count sheep dancing around his head. So he made a gallant effort getting up to freshen himself.

Another beer was the order of the night :-). DAmm, how can these guyz gulp in so much! So the drunk returned and made a gallant attempt clearing imaginary sheep off his seat and fill his mug with booze (err.. its a different thing he never dared take another sip).

The talk then transcended to why they ordered so much beer and how on one of the trips we had to face the fright of the night :-). Well the time was ticking through the night as we decided to walk out. The waiters by now were stacking up chairs and tables.

Outside we had some paan and the smokers puffed through the cloud, as we aimlessly walked down the parking lot discussing what we did and how much we had and how we had came here once upon a time and that we should meet quiet often.

Now astride our mobikes I decided to trail Piyush and Sanjay. We(Sardaar and me) were worried if these guyz could actually drive through? I mean all along the quiet deserted mid night roads Sanjay kept wishing us 'Good Morning' "Ekdum Good Morning ho gaya hai boss" and cursing the oncoming traffic. When I synced up with Piyush to confirm some directions, gave it a pass since he was wide squint eyed scaling the road like a hawk :-).

Soon I left Sardaar at his place then rode down to Sanjay's place to see if they reached in one piece. Sanjay said Piyush left him and was on his way home.

Once back home smsed Piyush to confirm his arrival -"Ghar pahunchte hi sms kar dena", I got an immediate reply "Nahi". Then in about 15 mins got another sms from him "Reached" :)

Are you crazy!!!

2008-04-24T16:11:00.023+05:30

That's a reaction I got from my folks when I said I would be getting a bicycle. Yes I have been on an impulsive high with a few adventure activities off late. Things that used to seemed a far cry for me were not when I got the high pulse. It all started with my trekking endeavors and eventually what seemed jumping off cliffs for me became a reality with me hanging on a midair swing. What seemed like a crazy idea to me transcended to reality when I went on a numb ass circuit from Pune to Gokarna.

Isn't jumping off cliffs and walking off weak ledges enough? I did not know the answer for this, since when in that impulse I was willing to take on anything in that direction.

4 years back, when I joined in this organization I was one of those fun loving outgoing and an all TP guy. Adventure sure was something that stayed with me but never in an expressive manner. I mean I had been on long drives -Car drives- umpteen amount of times. I have been on numerous trips and outings. Never before had I done any sort of treks as in a real trek nor had I done anything that got me close to the levels of endurance I encountered the last few years.

4 years before, I always thought of the adventure "freaks" to be extremely channel/narrow minded and way too prosperous ($$$) to undertake such activities. I never understood nor could easily formulate what made these people do what they did. I mean I sure wanted to get a taste of all those things but simply could not. I was happy and content with what I was doing then.

VxTrek was something that looked different and exposed me to the concept of organized treks. I mean I had trekked before, but not really with the passion of trekking. Soon made a few good friends and we too started embarking on many treks. The passion took me on a high as I got comfortable and understood the few basics for a good trek. The basic do-s and dont-s, that I never thought of before. I did 'accomplish' many good treks and came to realize that its never about the destination, its the path that matters. Trekking not only gave me the high of adventure and endurance but also very much educated me on decision making. Trekking is not simply walk along a path and u are done (sure it is if you do it just for the heck of it). Long treks need planning like which path to take , how to manage food, what are the fallback plans? etc etc. Trekking also introduced me to cope up with individuals on a trek, and when given a chance take important decisions. I really loved (and still do)trekking and when was in the high of it, really most of these things were simply reflexive. The best gift of it all -loss of weight, stay fit, enjoy, smile on your face and feel free :D. (yeah I know this sounds like one of those 5th std/ composition 'trekking' ... )

Paragliding was another activity I started off with, but it really never went to far. I really enjoyed those 7 days at Japaloupe farms and taking off hills. Those few moments in flight were simply for myself and could scan the scene around to get a birds eye view and the wonderful topography the hills, plains, valleys had to offer (and not mention the man made structures - roads, dams, farms etc.). I always wished I had continued with paragliding, and still get goosebumps just thinking of the same. Paragliding was not different than trekking, that is here too I had a lot of decision making to learn. It was not just jump off the cliff and land, you need to understand the aerodynamics of the glider, the air flow-direction-strength, the topogrpahy of the terrain you are flying over etc etc. At the end of 7 days I was very comfortable with the glider and had a lot of fun at the same time! The best part of giving 7 days- I flew the glider solo all the time :)

Bike rides too had caught my fancy. I had been driving the car for a long time and never really understood at that time the need of riding a bike. Driving the car has its own charm, and I shall never ever take that away! I mean try driving the 4 wheels in a crowded street or rip down the open highway at break-a-neck speeds- its fun and has its own highs. But I still wanted to relive the passion of 'balanced riding' :-). So got the bike all done and embarked on one of my best bike rides till date. Again, its not just fun and games riding the bike. A lot of planning, and decisions need to be taken with this as well. Sure I have done just one of those long rides but would love to get on more soon.

So yes these were more or less the new activities I had gotten myself totally engrossed into in the last 4 years. It was not wonder my folks thought "wasn't jumping and running off cliffs enough?" when I asked for the bicycle.

Bicycling I know has its own charm, and highs. Something I wish I could take up soon before it gets too late. Being a forum member (more silent now-a-days) at bikeszone got to know and see many people transform from motorized to non-motorized or atleast keep and option of a non-motorised vehicle. Its just been so long now I have been dreaming, have started to loose interest...

Why all these thoughts now? Well... had to do some reality checks on myself. :-)

Bored to Death

2008-04-22T18:37:00.012+05:30

The last few days/weeks have been grossly inactive. Not much fun activities, nothing new going on. All was the same, having done nothing for so long I was getting sluggish. Well I hope to embark on a trek in one of the coming weekends, that should instill some much needed break in me.

Well just to add more to my delima, we had one of those routine re-orgs. and had a whole bunch of presentations put by the Big Bosses. To top it today we had one of out "new group" meetings.

We did expect the meeting to be more in line of what the new group would be and what our roles would sound like. Unfortunately the meeting took me through one of the most pathetic 1.5 hours of my life. I am being honest here, never before have I felt so confused or giddy after a meeting.

The meeting basically started with an introductory round like "I am A working on B for X years" , then came the talk which sort of said what we would be doing and who the new folks were.

I honestly did not know that we would be having any new faces in the group, for all I understood we were the same group with a new name, well the truth had a new mood though.

Soon the meeting went into the technicalities of the new group, and started getting intense into the micro level discussion of what the new folks were doing all these years .. err (my bad) months. It did seem ok at the start to know these new found folks and be a little bogged down to the fact that these guyz did some real hardcore "w.o.r.k". Thats about when things went bad.

The manager started talking about all the little nitty gritty this group did, and then it wavered into a single channel discussion about the new folks and all the technical (most words were simply Jargons for me )difficulties they faced. And this discussion never seemed to see the end of day. It went on with new mails and colorful excel sheets with rows and rows of technicalities which did not even remotely sound familiar.

Initially I though it maybe due to my recent apathy over being in this group thats making me feel this way, but soon realized everyone apart from the "new members" were counting sheep or scratching their eyes or rocking the chair or simply giving blind stares around. I felt confided, continued crossing my legs and tried to rub the grease off my pants.

Soon I could see the notepad in front of me with a flow chart and I had really enjoyed that chart and everything that went into making that chart. I mean I understood everything about it and got this huge grin on my face and -lo- the grease still stayed on pant refusing to budge to my relentless scratching. Boy had I started day dreaming.

But again, I thought why I dreamt about that flow chart which I made some 4 years back, the very next week of making that flow chart I had resigned from my previous job. Then I though of the days in my current company and I got really enraged at the way in which the management had always tossed our group from one to another. Dammit the grease is not fading... so I stretched my legs pushed the chair back folded my hands relaxed as the dim presentation of the excel sheet continued to scroll and so did the jargons.

Another guy from our older group was trying out at an MNC, little did I expect him to try that. So Shailesh had rejected his offer from this place, since he thought this place was new and the position was a little risky. Why wasn't I ready to quit or rather why was I all charged to quit and yet sticking around. Maybe the comfortable chair made me not take the decision. Dammit now my legs were stretched too long and then people were still walking around their cubicle that could sight through the transparent glass wall. The excel sheet had changed colors and was on a new worksheet. Piyush was still trying to keep his eyes open as Mandar looked as his hoes and kept scanning the room with Abhishek still rocking that chair.

Both the scroll-tab and fonts on this worksheet were so small that no time in the world would get me out of this torment. Thats when the manager said, "I guess we can discuss this offline" and many of us smiled :).

By now I realized my looking up or down consistently at a stretch and the background score of unknown jargons were getting me all dizzy. Soon the manager asked if there were any questions. The original us were used to keep quiet but that was not the case with these new Knights (atleast one of them).

Damm I wish I had a broom stick, which I could shove down his throat and wack him left and right. This guy had even more jargon knowledge and enjoyed playing jargon-jargon with the manager. Damm I recollected the Ashok Kumar mimicky from the previous post .. I felt no different and relished on the prospect of giving a Shatrugan shot "Khamoosh .. Ayyeeee.. Bhishumm". I had that huge grin again.

The meeting ended half an hour post schedule as someone else who had booked the conference room kicked us out. It never felt so good to be hustled out. I was still shaky and dizzy from the meet. The world around me went spinning and all looked or seemed over-brightened, damm was my grey taking in the much necessary blood.

Once back at my cubicle I shut my eyes and rested my face in my palms as I tried to recover from the onslaught and forget it as one bad dream.

Never before have I ever faced or been bored to death by a meeting, this was my first. Donno how many more are headed my way :-)

A typical day in an IT company

2008-04-15T14:19:00.003+05:30

Something I typically would not have blogged (in the sense showcasing someone else's stuff), but this video is too cool to be denied.

The video simply shows a day in a s/w engineers day at the office from 11:30am to 6pm.

All credits go to the creator and characters depected in this video. I have NOT created this video nor am I involved in any sort with this video. All credits go to the owner of this video. Simply cool and very well edited!

Hillarious!
nJoy!
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Seeems like the hosting the video is taking up a lot of bandwidth so here are a couple of links for the video:

link1
or
link2
or
link3

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