25 Things You Never Knew About Me

Thanks to Ava for tagging me.

1) My favorite color is blue. (typical male)
2) I am afraid of medical needles. When young I used to get dizzy given a couple of injections. (typical male)
3) I once piloted a small aircraft for about 3 min, and threw up the rest of the hour long flight. I suppose there ended my dream of ever going into outer space.
4) I cannot handle amusement park rides either, the worst was the space simulator @ EPCOT. My daughter sailed thru' it without a hitch, I was woozy for the next 3 hours.
5) I would very much like to look like my favorite Hindi actor Dev Anand, unfortunately the closest I resemble is Shetty. On second thoughts, that may not be so bad; remember that in those days only villains could really get close to heroines (really evil HeHeHe).
6) These are some Hindi movies I could not bear to see past the interval, Hum Aapke Hain Kaun, Dhoom (1 & 2), Bunty Aur Babli, Guru, KKKG, DevDas (with SRK).
7) Pt 6 for English would be Titanic, Da Vinci Code (actually slept thru it; can't believe a movie containing the Louvre, Versailles, Westminster Abbey, the English Countryside & Tom Hanks can be so bad), Matrix, Mission Impossible, Eyes Wide Shut.
8) The last movie I saw in a theater was "The Reader"; loved it; Kate Winslet deserves her Oscar. I recommend it to everyone, most certainly to book lovers.
9) I have never programmed a VCR, and probably will never do so.
10) I have yet to send a text msg (SMS) from a cell phone, although this is something I probably will do.
11) I have however programmed in FORTRAN using punched cards (IBM 370), in assembly(Intel 8085, Z-80), & paper tape (PDP-11).
12) The first email I sent must have been in the mid-1980's.
13) The first on-line blog I posted on was soc.culture.india (early 1990's, and using text editors, graphical internet browsers were not invented yet.). This blog had the 2nd highest traffic in those days (naturally the 1st was alt.sex; "more talk less action" was the theme common to both.)
14) Although I have spent the last 14+ years developing Real-Time Fixed Income & Derivative Trading Systems for Wall Street, I have yet to personally trade any security.
15) One of my favorite Wall Street trader story is on Dec 31 1999, a trader told me to take the rest of the millennium off.
16) I was in New York City on Sep 11 2001.
17) My favorite card game is Bridge, although have not played it in a long long time.
18) My favorite sports are Cricket & American Football; again have not played either in a very long time.
19) Currently, bicycling, mountain climbing, and swimming are my physical activities.
20) I have julienned vegetables, made a bouquet garni, baked a quiche and roasted whole turkeys and chickens.
21) My favorite food-wine pairing is Salmon with a Red Burgundy.
22) The less said about my artistic abilities, the better.
23) I cannot play any musical instrument.
24) Although I do not believe in palmistry (or astrology or religion); I do have "The Simian Line" on my right hand.
25) I share my birth month (April) with Adolf Hitler & Saddam Hussein. My birth year had significant military episodes in both the countries I have been a citizen off (India-China War, The Cuban Missile Crisis.) [No, this is not a plot for Omen 17 1/2]

I cannot think of anyone to tag (all I know have been tagged); hence stopping for now.

Explanation/Prediction of the Financial Crisis

Amitabh (Vijay Gupta) in his first meeting with Sanjeev Kumar says "Main Paanch Lakh Ka Sauda Karne Aaya Hoon Aur Meri Jeb Mein Paanch Phooti Kaudi Nahin Hain".

Now fast forward to the early 2000's to a hypothetical US homebuyer (say VJ Gutkowski) in say Las Vegas --- "I have come to buy this Five Hundred Thousand $ House, and I have No Down Payment."

Sanjeev Kumar (a builder of homes and owner of Raj Constructions) agrees to sell the plot to Amitabh. Upon hearing that Amitabh is going build a colony of houses on that plot, a financiar Prem Chopra agrees to lend five lakh rupees.

In the USA, Sanjeev Kumar and his company would be any homebuilding company; and Prem Chopra could be a well known investment bank. VJ Gutkowski was categorized as SUBPRIME, and probably held an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM). His reasoning was "House prices are rising and I will probably sell this house before the ARM resets to a higher rate.". The investment bank took his mortgage and other similar mortgages and securitized them, i.e. created mortgage-backed securities (MBS) and collateralized debt obligations (CDO).

Amitabh creates his own construction company (Shanti Constructions), and begins competing against Sanjeev Kumar. Both attempt to purchase more land to build more houses, and end up bidding against each other at a land auction. The net result is an inflation in land prices, with Amitabh outbidding Sanjeev and wildly overpaying. Revenge is Amitabh's reason for doing so, he was born out-of-wedlock and Sanjeev is his father.

Spurred by the low interest rate policy favored by the US Federal Reserve (US Central Bank) many people (PRIME as well as SUBPRIME) rush to buy homes. Since MBS & CDO's diversify risk and increase profitability, Investment banks make home lending a priority. This causes land and home prices to inflate, leading VJ Gutkowski and other Americans buy more houses. Note that the initial impetus to the housing bubble may have been different (Trishul-Revenge Vs. USA-Low-Interest-Rates-MBS-CDO's); but the effects are similar.

The Indian Govt. creates a scheme to promote affordable housing, and both Amitabh and Sanjeev tender bids. Using underhanded means (gets the senior Govt. official to believe that Amitabh is trying to bribe him), Sanjeev Kumar wins the bid. An incensed Amitabh purchases all the available adjacent land and advertises his intent to build sell and better houses at half the price. This naturally leads to a collapse in housing prices, and brings a lot of trouble for Raj Constructions. Suppliers start demanding immediate payment and investors/bankers are loath to lend any further money. Sanjeev Kumar has to mortgage his home and office in order to borrow money to keep his business afloat.

What the Federal Reserve gives, the Federal Reserve taketh away. From 2004 to 2006, the Fed hiked the Fed Funds rate from 2.0 to 5.25; thereby effectively pricking the US housing bubble. Homebuyers saw their house prices collapse and simultaneously their ARM's adjusted to a higher rate of interest. Many subprime homeowners defaulted on their mortgages, and this lead to an increase in losses on the underlying MBS & CDO's. To prevent further losses, Banks began to tighten lending standards.

Sanjeev Kumar enlists the help of Prem Chopra to try and prevent Amitabh's colony from being built. Prem also controls cement distribution, and refuses to supply Amitabh. An enraged Amitabh informs the police who promptly sieze Prem's assets. Prem and Sanjeev gang up and plot to kill Amitabh. Meanwhile, Amitabh has purchased all of Sanjeev's mortgages and IOU's; and in a grand gesture returns them back to Sanjeev. After the obligatory fight scenes, the movie ends with Sanjeev sacrificing his life, and Shanti & Raj Constructions merging to creating Shanti-Raj Constructions.

Remember that Prem Chopra in the US is an investment bank, and one that is deeply affected by the housing/MBS/CDO collapse. This investment bank declares bankruptcy, leading to a severe credit crunch. Again different reasons for the discontinuation of Prem Chopra/Investment Bank; but again the effects are similar --- credit crunch.

A reader may well insist that no such credit crunch happened in the movie, if anything in the movie "All's well that ends well". But did all really end well ? Note that the two merged companies still owned a surplus of houses that were rapidly depreciating. Also, Amitabh must have had to go into debt to be able to buy all of Sanjeev's debt (note that in a distressed environment even his assets must have collapsed.). Add to this fact that one major financier had disappeared and others will unwilling to lend --- has to result in a credit crunch.

OK, OK, OK; this economic stuff may finally be too much for some people --- peace.
Trishul happens to be one of my favorite Amitabh Bachchan movies. I apologize for taking some liberties in this review, my intentions were to try and explain the circumstances leading to the current financial crisis. Both Amitabh and Sanjeev deliver powerful performances, and are ably supported by Shashi Kapoor, Hema Malini & Rakhee.

On a more serious note, to better understand some of the issues and some possible solutions; I recommend the following books/sites.

1) Structured Finance & Collateralized Debt Obligations - Janet M. Tavakoli.
2) Monetary History of the United States - Milton Friedman & Anna Schwartz
3) Essay in the Great Depression - Ben Bernanke
4) Writings and Commentary of NYU Prof. Nouriel Roubini (www.rgemonitor.com).

Some definitions
SUBPRIME - Persons with an irregular or incomplete salary history, probably had a bankruptcy in the past. (FICO score < 620)

ARM - A mortgage whose interest rate changes at pre-defined points in time. The new rate is a fixed spread added to well-known rate such as LIBOR.

MBS - A bond that pays interest and principal from the monthly mortgage payments of the underlying pool of mortgages.

CDO - A derivative instrument that uses MBS and other securities.

India's Unknown Birth Control Pioneer

Margaret Sanger, an American birth control pioneer, founded her first clinic in 1916 at Brooklyn New York. A few days later, she was arrested on obscenity charges and sentenced to 30 days in jail. A determined woman, she kept challenging the reigning orthodoxy, and ultimately succeeded in bringing sexual and reproductive freedoms to women worldwide. Time magazine included her in the list of 100 most influential people of the 20th century.

Marie Stopes, a British birth control pioneer, founded her first clinic in 1921 at London. Although she was never arrested, a number of doctors and priests attacked her. Eventually her ideas and work gained acceptance, and today "Marie Stopes International" a women's reproductive health organization is active in several countries.

Raghunath Karve, an Indian birth control pioneer, founded his first clinic in 1921 at Bombay. He was arrested and convicted twice on obscenity charges, and had to pay fines. Despite waging a lifelong passionate fight for gender equality and women's sexual & reproductive rights, he was relegated to the backwaters of history. In 1953, he died a lonely and unsung man.

Dhyaas Parva (An Era of Yearning) is director Amol Palekar's award winning Marathi movie, a biographical account of the life of Raghunath Karve. Filmed in a restrained almost documentary style, this non-sermonizing movie keeps the intellectually curious viewer rooted to their seat. Shunning traditional devices like songs and melodrama, a rationalist treatment makes this a refreshing experience.

Malati Karve, Raghunath's wife, whole-heartedly supports him in his endeavors. At times she shoulders much of the couple's financial responsibilities, after having chosen to work in the career of her choice. One of the most powerful scenes is when Raghunath tells Malati that she is under no obligation to bear children. Since she does not feel like being a mother, they remain childless. Naturally this does not go down well in pre-independence India; a Doctor mis-diagnosing her illness(Pernicious Anemia) claims that her troubles are due to not being a mother in over 15 years of marriage.

Other effective episodes from the movie

*** Several snide comments passed by the Karve's neighbors. Viewers well versed in Marathi culture, especially that of Pune and Girgaum Mumbai, will truly appreciate these.

*** Raghunath's speech to a gathering of Pune intellectuals and the negative response it generates. Palekar takes a delicious tongue-in-cheek swipe at a few of the opponents, bringing memories of Ghashiram Kotwal.

*** Some progressive editors refusing to publish Karve's progressive magazine, one of those editors calling his ideas "provocative".

*** The reason for being charged with obscenity; his editorial asserting that "Current attitudes to female fidelity and virginity emanate from a woman being viewed as a man's property."

*** Several scenes hinting at some of the reasons for his failure :- a refusal to compromise, being extremely critical of those in power, unable to build and maintain relationships.

Employing an underplaying style reminiscent of Arun Sarnaik and Shriram Lagoo from Sinhasan, Kishore Kadam delivers an outstanding performance as Raghunath Karve. Without resorting to any histrionics, he intelligently conveys the pain of constantly being rejected and ignored. He is equally at ease displaying unflagging determination, but the real genius is the unsentimental portrayal in analyzing Karve's own failures.

Seema Biswas, as Malati Karve, delivers a reserved and gentle performance; quite unlike her Bandit Queen effort. The other supporting actors have turned in competent efforts, with Sanjay Mone as Dr. Ambedkar being the standout.

Amol Palekar himself a committed social progressive, atheist, and gender equality champion; possibly had an interesting dilemma as to how to create this movie. He could have chosen to loudly trumpet Raghunath Karve's ideas and raved and ranted against those that opposed him, he did neither. The intentional focus on the reasons as to why Raghunath Karve did not succeed in becoming famous is Palekar's stroke of genius. Additionally, he managed to get Bhanu Athaiyya (India's only Oscar winner) for costume design and Nitin Desai (Devdas, Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam) for art direction to work for a pittance. Their joint efforts have resulted in creating a a realistic period feel that compliments the movie's central theme.

Epilogue
A) Free India was the world's first Govt. to institute a birth control program. It began in the 1950's on a small scale; and in response to the burgeoning population, by the late 60's/early 70's had grown into a much bigger country-wide effort.
B) India's population crossed the one billion mark in the early 2000's, and by 2020-25 is projected to reach anywhere between 1.3 - 1.5 billion. In the second half of this century, India is projected to be the most populous country on earth.
C) In the United States, it took the 1965 landmark US Supreme Court decision Griswold V Connecticut to legalize contraception for married couples. Eisenstat V Baird (1972) extended this right to unmarried couples.
D) Even today in the US, women's reproductive rights are constantly being challenged. Aid for international birth control is often un-certain and subject to ideological and budget constraints.

References
1) http://maharshikarvefamily.blogspot.com/
2) The Global Family Planning Revolution, Warren C. Robinson, John A. Ross
3) Twenty-First Century India, Tim Dyson, Robert Cassen, Leela Visaria
4) www.time.com/time/time100/leaders/profile/sanger.html
5) www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm4847bx.htm
6) www.answers.com/topic/marie-stopes
7) Wikipedia
8) www.mum.org/contrace.htm
9) countrystudies.us/india/33.htm

Woody Allen's Enchanting Spanish Caper

The movie starts with two American friends Vicky (Rebecca Hall) and Cristina (Scarlett Johansson) going to Barcelona for the summer. They stay at Vicky's friend Judy (Patricia Clarkson) and her husband's home. On a visit to an art gallery they see Juan Antonio (Javier Bardem); Cristina is interested and enquires whether he is the artist. Judy narrates a story about how Juan Antonio and his wife had a tempestuous divorce, and the wife tried to kill him. Later at dinner in a restaurant, Vicky and Cristina see Juan Antonio with his friends. Juan Antonio notices them as well, walks over to them and his first words after introductions are "I like to invite you both to spend the weekend, we will eat well, drink good wine, we will make Love". Pat comes the reply to Vicky's question "Who exactly is going to make love" --- "Hopefully the three of us".

Viewers/Readers familiar with Woody Allen's history may be tempted to roll their eyes and mutter "There he goes again, that near pedophile". However, a witty and inspired script, excellent chemistry between actors, and imaginative direction soon overcome any misgivings. Indeed "Vicky Cristina Barcelona" marks a comeback for Allen, and is his best movie in a long time. Almost in the category of his early classics "Love and Death", "Annie Hall", "Hannah and her Sisters"; this movie continues his inimitable exploration into unfulfilled relationships.

Vicky & Cristina fly away with Juan Antonio for the weekend. The practical, level-headed & already engaged Vicky ensures the girls are in one room and he is in another. After a lot of wine, the more adventurous Cristina goes to Juan Antonio's bedroom, but suddenly gets an attack of food poisoning and has to be hospitalized. Vicky & Juan Antonio are thrown together, they do some sight-seeing and visit his father. Juan Antonio tells her about the complicated relationship with his ex-wife. At the end of a romantic evening with wine and Spanish Guitar music, she succumbs to his charms.

They all come back to Barcelona, Vicky keeps her dalliance a secret from Cristina. Over time Juan Antonio and Cristina get involved and start living together. Vicky's fiance' Doug also shows up in Barcelona, and has plans for a romantic hurried wedding. Meanwhile, Maria Elena (Juan Antonio's ex-wife) has some trouble in her life, and moves in with Juan Antonio and Cristina.

Please see this delightful movie to find out what happens next.

"Only unfulfilled love can be romantic", Maria Elena's wise words could sum up this movie. Indeed, Woody Allen has always specialized in exploring the many paths within relationships; especially relationships that initially flower but over time come asunder. This movie sheds light on some unexplored or partially explored paths such as menage' a trois (threesomes), and unfaithfulness. Controversial and delicate subjects like these could easily be mishandled by lesser directors, but Allen employing an unusually funny script keeps us highly entertained. Never do we feel that we are watching some sleazy endeavor, even the much celebrated make-out scene between Scarlett Johansson and Penelope Cruz is tastefully enacted. He also uses a voice-over to periodically explain and embellish scenes, I personally liked it and found that it enriched the movie experience.

The acting is brilliant all around, with Penelope Cruz, Javier Bardem and Rebecca Hall being outstanding. Cruz is a firm favorite for supporting actress Oscar; she spices up this movie with an electric performance of a slightly crazy and violent, yet perceptive and talented artist. Her character has many different shades from vulnerability to taking charge, nurturing to breaking up a relationship, friendliness to possessive violence, understanding and exhibiting an artist's temperament; she essays all these effortlessly.

Rebecca Hall is a great discovery, she delivers an intelligent performance that begins with a crisp and sure demeanor. As the movie progresses, she marvellously displays subtle cracks in this sure-footedness and is at ease portraying hesitation, self-doubt and indecisiveness.

Scarlett Johansson has a great working relationship with Woody Allen (Scoop, Match Point), and she is very much at ease with the initial flighty and easily impressed character. Later she often has to react to Cruz taking charge, which she does competently; but this may be a reason for her effort not being on par with the other three.

After an Oscar winning performance as a scary, psychotic, hit-man in "No Country For Old Men", Javier Bardem excels as a romantic, charming, confident Spanish artist. He leaves no doubt about his star power with a performance that nonchalantly seduces the viewer. The icing on the cake is his later expression of self-doubt and insecurity, hallmarks of Woody Allen male characters.

Adding to the appeal of this movie, are the picturesque locations and the wonderful cinematography. Scenes like sailing on the serene Mediterranean, bicycling through and picnicking in the enchanting Spanish countryside, alluring Barcelona locations, background fireworks; suggest a Madison avenue hand at work. The cinematography certainly enhances the romantic appeal of the movie, and is probably worthy of an Oscar as well.

Woody Allen has a different location (Barcelona instead of New York) and a younger set of characters (Bardem instead of himself); but has not lost his unique entertaining way of telling a slightly melancholy tale.

Avdi's Dev Anand Tag

First a link to my review on Dev Anand
http://www.mouthshut.com/review/Dev_Anand-144533-1.html

Next a link to my review on Guide
http://www.mouthshut.com/review/Guide_-_FilmFare_Award_1966-130373-1.html

Movies Seen & Liked
Des Pardes (1978) --- The last good Dev Anand movie. There is a nice line in the last song that I identify with a lot "Wahaan Ek JeevanSathi Hai Yahaan Roz Naya Sawariya, Woh Bhi Theek To Yeh Bhi Theek Hai Apna Apna Nazariya." (Expressing tolerance and understanding for the West & India.)
Haré Raama Haré Krishna (1971) --- His best directorial venture, partly flawed (all that moorti stealing stuff with Prem Chopra); but mostly ahead of the curve. Zeenat Aman's debut, and great songs "Dum Maaro Dum", "Phoolon Ka Taaron Ka", "Kaanchi Re Kaanchi", "O Re Ghunghroo Ka Bole", Dekho O Deewano".
Tere Mere Sapne (1971) --- A sensitive movie that explores medical ethics and husband-wife relationships, Dev Anand & Mumtaz make a lovely pair. Great songs "He Maine Kasam Li", "Jeevan Ki Bagiya Mehkengi", "Jaise Radha Ne Mala Japi".
Johny Mera Naam (1970) --- All us kids were greatly impressed with Dev Anand as a cool hep dude Johnny, who in reality is a CID inspector. We used to play a game called HandsUp, and all of us would try to imitate him. Me and my brother must have spent several years fighting like the long lost brothers Dev Anand & Pran.
Duniya (1968) --- Do not remember much, had a great song "Dooriyaan Nazhdikiyaan Ban Gayi". I think it was a whodunit murder plot.
Jewel Thief (1967) --- First Hindi movie seen outside India, as someone said "A Great combination of James Bond & Agatha Christie.". Do I need to say great songs ?
Guide (1965) --- Refer to my review, My all-time favorite Hindi movie.
Teen Devian (1965) --- Great songs with Nanda, Kalpana (not Kalpana Kartik his wife) & Simi Garewal. "Are Yaar Meri Tum Bhi Ho GhazaB', "Khwaab Ho Tum Ya Koi Haqeeqat", "Likha Hai Teri Ankhon Mein", "Aise To Na Dekho". Only Dev Anand can be simultaneously in love with 3 women.
Tere Ghar Ke Samne (1963) --- His best movie with Nutan, a delightful entertainer. Great songs "Dil Ka Bhanwar Kare Pukar", "Tere Ghar Ke Samne", "Tu Kahaan Ye Bataa", "Dekho Rootha Na Karo".
Asli-Naqli (1962) --- Only film with Hrishikesh Mukherjee, they had a fight. HK thought that DA was all charisma and no acting ability, and DA would retort that no one would come to see HK's movies. Many great songs and a lovely Sadhana, "Tujhe Jeevan Ki Dor Se Baandh liya Hai", "Tera Mera Pyaar Amar", "Ek Budh Banaoonga", "Kal Ki Daulat AAj Ki Khooshiyaan".
Baat Ek Raat Ki (1962) --- An underrated thriller with Dev Anand as a lawyer and Waheeda Rehman as his client accused of a murder. Great songs "Na Tum Hame Jaano", "Akela Hoon Mein".
Hum Dono (1961) --- Dev Anand shines in a double role, Sadhana is lovely (as usual) and great songs (as usual). "Abhi Na Jaao Chodkar", "Main Zindagi Ka Saath Nibhaata Chala Gaya".
Jab Pyar Kisise Hota Hai (1961) --- A nice pair Dev Anand & Asha Parekh, with great songs "Jab Pyaar Kisise Hota Hai", "Sau Saal Pehle Mujhe Tumse Pyaar Tha", "Teri Zulfon Se Judaai To Nahi Mangi Thi."
Bombai Ka Babu (1960) --- Sensitively handled the taboo topic of incest, Dev Anand plays Suchitra Sen's long lost brother. In reality, he has accidently murdered the real brother; but now falls in love with her. She obviously cannot reciprocate, and finally marries someone else. Both looked great, and so were the songs "Dekhne Mein Bhola Hai Dil ka Salona", "Deewana Mastana Hua Dil Jaane Kaha Hoke Bahaar Ayi', "Chal Ri Sajni Ab Kya Soche."
Kala Bazar (1960) --- Another great pairing with Waheeda Rehman, Vijay Anand acts and directs this movie. Numerous great songs. A great early scene shows Dev Anand selling "Mother India's" tickets in black, at it premiere attended by several Hindi Movie industry figures.
Kalapani (1958) --- Dev Anand & Madhubala must be the best looking pair in Hindi Movies, also great acting acting by DA (won Filmfare best actor award.) Great songs again "Hum Bekhudi Mein Tumko Pukare Chale Gaye", "Nazar Laagi Raja Tore Bugle Par",
"AchaJi Mein Haari Chalo Man Jaao Na".
Nau Do Gyarah (1957) --- Starts as a copy of "It Happened One Night", but unlike another Raj Kapoor-Nargis copy "Chori Chori"; veers away from the original. And when it veers away, it also looses some of the charm. Never mind, great song "Hum Hai Rahi Pyar Ke", "Ankhon Mein Kya Jee Rupaila Badal", "Aaja Panchii Akela Hai", will keep you entertained. (BTW, both Dev
Anand & Raj Kapoor copy Clark Gable's hair style, in different songs.)
Paying Guest (1957) --- I think his first pairing with Nutan, and a delightful movie. A character "Sharabi Jeejajee" unintentionally provides a lot more fun. Great songs once again
C.I.D. (1956) --- Dev Anand excels at playing a sauve smart CID inspector, Johnny Walker provides comic relief and a great song "Yeh hai Bombay Meri Jaan", Waheeda Rehman's debut is not to be missed.
Munimji (1955) --- Great song "Jeevan Ke Safar Mein Rahi".
Patita (1953) --- Several great songs.

Movies seen & Liked as a Kid But ROFL now
I cannot belive that as a kid I liked these movies, and actually looked forward to seeing them.
Bullet (1976) --- Has a song that goes something like "Bullet, Bullet, Bullet, Dekho Yeh Kya Hai".
Jaaneman (1976) --- Apparently a remake of Taxi Driver with Hema Malini in a double role.
Warrant (1975) --- Has to be seen once to see Bombay Police dressed in skin tight pale blue outfits while raiding Ajit's den.Ajit goes around looking for a "Faarmoola", and also has a pool of acid in which he throws people he wants to kill. Now strictly ROFL. Nice song "Ruk Jaana O Jaana Humse Do Baate Karke Chali Jaana".
Amir Garib (1974) --- What in hell is a Bagla Bhagat (Dev Anand's bad character's name.).
Joshila (1973) --- Great song "Kiska Rasta Dekhe"
Chhupa Rustam (1973) --- Yet another CID role with Hema Malini. Dev Anand does a qawwali, with Ajit, Prem Chopra & Hema Malini looking on; again strictly ROFL.
Banarasi Babu (1973) --- Dev Anand in a double role, one of which is a paan chewing Babu from Banaras.
Heera Panna (1973) --- Great Song "Panna Ki Tamanna"; Zeenat looks awesome in a bikini in another song.
Shareef Budmaash (1973) --- Yet another CID role with Hema Malini. Great song "Neend Churakar Raaton Mein".
Yeh Gulistan Hamara (1972) --- With Sharmila Tagore.

Movies Seen & Not Liked
Love at Times Square (2003) --- Cant believe I actually saw this one, and also read the New York Times's review where they too were sort of kind to him.
Return of Jewel Thief (1996) --- ROFL, ROFL, ROFL at the first song and most of the movie. This movie should never have been made.
Gangster (1994) --- Remember only bits & pieces, to quote Kulbhushan Kharbanda from Shaan "Meri Samajh Mein Nahi Aaya Ke Mein Hansoo Ya Rouu" (forgive the spelling of Rouu.)
Sau Crore (1991) --- Again vaguely remember.
Awwal Number (1990) --- A movie containing Cricket & Aamir Khan, and yet so bad.
Swami Dada (1982) --- Holy Cow !!!!
Man Pasand (1980) --- Dev Anand as Henry Higgins has to be the greatest miscast of all time.
Kalabaaz (1977) --- ROFL @ Dev Anand & Zeenat on an elephant.
Saheb Bahadur (1977) --- Apparently a remake of Afsar which I have not seen, judging by this movie am glad I did not.
Ishq Ishq Ishq (1974) --- Had good songs, but no one could figure out the story.
Gambler (1971) --- Great songs but what was the point ???
Prem Pujari (1970) --- Great songs (multiple), Dev Anand's direction leaves a lot to be desired. Grimsel Pass (Phoolon Ke Rang Se) in real life is the closest Lunar Landscape on earth.
Love Marriage (1959) --- Yet another movie with Cricket, ROFL @ Dev Anand hitting sixes; only 10 people in the theatre; we 4 friends walked out during the interval (2 of us strong DA fans). Great songs "Dheere Dheere Chal Chand Gagan Mein" & "Kahen Jhoom Jhoom Raat Ye Suhaani".
Amar Deep (1958) --- A Love triangle that dragged on, Great songs "Dekh Hame Awaaz Na Dena" & "Mere Man Ka Bawra Panchii".
House No. 44 (1955) --- Great songs, but a slow movie.
Insaniyat (1955) --- ROFL @ names like Zangoora, and Dev Anand with a moustache, and Dilip Kumar hamming away.
Taxi Driver (1954) --- Slow movie, but a couple of great songs.

Movies Not Seen
Mr Prime Minister (2005)
Aman Ke Farishtey (2003)
Censor (2001)
Hum Naujawan (1985)
Anand Aur Anand (1984)
Lootmaar (1980)
Darling Darling (1977) --- Has a great song "Aise Na Mujhe Tum Dekho"
Prem Shastra (1974)
The Evil Within (1970) --- ????
Mahal (1969)
Kahin Aur Chal (1968)
Pyar Mohabbat (1966)
Sharabi (1964) --- Great song "Kabhie Na Kabhie Kahi Na Kahi Koi Na Koi To Ayega"
Kinare Kinare (1963)
Maya (1961) --- Great songs "Koi Sone Ke Dilwaala", "Tasveer Teri Dil Mein"
Roop Ki Rani Choron Ka Raja (1961)
Ek Ke Baad Ek (1960)
Jaali Note (1960)
Manzil (1960)
Sarhad (1960)
Solva Saal (1958) --- Great song "Hai Apna Dil To Awara"
Baarish (1957)
Dushman (1957)
Funtoosh (1956)
Pocket Maar (1956)
Dev Anand in Goa (Alias Farar) (1955)
Milap (1955)
Baadbaan (1954)
'Ferry' (1954)
Armaan (1953)
Humsafar (1953)
Rahi (1953)
Aandhiyan (1952)
Jaal (1952) --- Great song "Yeh Raat Yeh Chandni Phir Kahaan"
Tamasha (1952)
Zalzala (1952)
Aaram (1951)
Baazi (1951) --- Great song "Tadbeer Se bigdi hui"
Do Sitare (1951)
Nadaan (1951)
Sanam (1951)
Sazaa (1951) --- Great song "Tum Na Jaane Kis Jahaan Mein Kho Gaye"
Stage (1951)
Afsar (1950)
Birha Ki Raat (1950)
Dilruba (1950)
Hindustan Hamara (1950)
Khel (1950)
Madhubala (1950)
Nili (1950)
Nirala (1950)
Jeet (1949)
Shair (1949)
Shayar (1949)
Udhaar (1949)
Hum Bhi Insaan Hain (1948)
Vidya (1948)
Ziddi (1948)
Aage Badho (1947)
Mohan (1947)
Hum Ek Hain (1946)

Response to CP's Tag

I was tagged by CouchPapaya, with the following rules:

RULE #1: People who have been tagged must write their answers on their blogs and replace any question that they dislike with a new question formulated by them.

RULE #2: Tag 6 people to do this quiz and they cannot refuse. These people must state who they were tagged by and cannot tag the person whom they were tagged by. Continue this game by sending it to other people.

1. If your lover betrayed you, what will your reaction be?
What took you so long.

2. If you can have a dream to come true, what would it be?
Actually get that billion US $ mentioned later, and more important, let that be in 3 month T-Bills.

3. Whose butt would you like to kick?
Several people, but only if they sign a waiver.

4. What would you do with a billion dollars?
Assuming it is in US $, first buy 3 month T-Bills, and then Start a Hedge Fund.

5. Will you fall in love with your best friend?
No.

6. Which is more blessed, loving someone or being loved by someone?
Both.

7. How long do you intend to wait for someone you really love?
Till the next someone I really love comes along.

8. If the person you secretly like is already attached, what would you do?
Depends upon whether I already have that billion $ or not. If I have then why not try Robert Redford's Indecent Proposal (extremely evil laughter); but since I do not I suppose I shall just get over it.

9. What takes you down the fastest?
Spacecraft, airplanes, gravity.

10. How would you see yourself in ten years time?
Since I cannot get Lasik done, using my glasses.

11. What’s your fear?
Actually getting that 1 billion US $ as 1 $ per day for the next 1 billion days.

12. What kind of person do you think the person who tagged you is?
Eclectic Writer, Extremely Well Read, Exquisite taste in food & drinks.

13. Would you rather be single and rich or married but poor?
He He He; I always thought married but poor always follows single and rich.

14. What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?
Search for my glasses.

15. Would you give all in a relationship?
If "all" includes all assets AND LIABILITIES, most certainly.

16. If you fall in love with two people simultaneously, who would you pick?
I would let my wife decide, after all it affects her as well.
(Hey, stop throwing those shoes at me.)

17. Would you forgive and forget no matter how horrible a thing that special someone has done?
Yes, so long as whatever was done was legal.

18. What is your idea of the perfect vacation?
Bicycling thru' French vineyards to a wine-tasting lunch. Climbing Mountains, preferably bordering an ocean.

19. What are the three most important expectations in wine (Original Question: What are your three most important expectations in love)
Intoxicating, Keeps improving with age, Good for your health.
(On second thoughts, applicable to love as well.)

20. List 6 people to tag:
Whoever reads this, and is not tagged, and is willing. (All those I know have already been tagged.)

The 100 Foods List

CouchPapaya found this interesting one (Thanks CP), here is my list.

1) Copy this list into your blog or journal, including these instructions.
2) Bold all the items you’ve eaten.
3) Cross out any items that you would never consider eating (Like CP, I use blue)
4) Optional extra: Post a comment here at www.verygoodtaste.co.uk linking to your results.
Additionally, I use italics for foods that almost/nearly eaten.

The VGT Omnivore’s Hundred:
1. Venison
2. Nettle tea
3. Huevos rancheros (1)
4. Steak tartare --- I am almost sure I have eaten, but cannot remember 100%
5. Crocodile --- No way I am eating this, hopefully a croc. never eats me.
6. Black pudding --- After finding out what this is NO WAY !!!
7. Cheese fondue (2)
8. Carp (3)
9. Borscht --- (4) This is good stuff
10. Baba ghanoush (5)
11. Calamari --- (6) Not a fan
12. Pho
13. PB&J sandwich (7)
14. Aloo gobi (8)
15. Hot dog from a street cart (9)
16. Epoisses --- (10) Neutral
17. Black truffle --- Must have had some shavings over an entre'
18. Fruit wine made from something other than grapes --- Apple wine, I think had some in the NY finger lakes region.
19. Steamed pork buns --- (11) Assuming this is Chinese, not fond though
20. Pistachio ice cream (12)
21. Heirloom tomatoes (13)
22. Fresh wild berries (14)
23. Foie gras (15)
24. Rice and beans (16)
25. Brawn, or head cheese
26. Raw Scotch Bonnet pepper
27. Dulce de leche (17)
28. Oysters --- (18) Neutral
29. Baklava --- (19) Like it
30. Bagna cauda
31. Wasabi peas --- (20) Neutral
32. Clam chowder in a sourdough bowl --- (21) Some really good
33. Salted lassi (22)
34. Sauerkraut (23)
35. Root beer float (24) --- My children love this, had a sip once, yuk !!!
36. Cognac with a fat cigar --- (25) Don't smoke, but really like cognac
37. Clotted cream tea
38. Vodka jelly/jell-O
39. Gumbo --- (26) Sometimes Good
40. Oxtail
41. Curried goat --- (27) Had it in Jamaica, did not really like it; Kolhapuri Mutton is the best
42. Whole insects --- A guide in a rain-forest in Puerto Vallarta demo'd; yuck !!!
43. Phaal --- Huh ???
44. Goat’s milk --- (28) Like CP, Goat's Cheese.
45. Malt whisky from a bottle worth £60/$120 or more --- (29) Don't drink scotch nowadays, but had some a while ago. Why not wine/champagne/cognac ? Yes to all 3.
46. Fugu
47. Chicken tikka masala (30)
48. Eel --- Like CP in sushi.
49. Krispy Kreme original glazed doughnut (31)
50. Sea urchin --- Like CP in sushi
51. Prickly pear
52. Umeboshi
53. Abalone
54. Paneer (32)
55. McDonald’s Big Mac Meal (33)
56. Spaetzle (34)
57. Dirty gin martini
58. Beer above 8% ABV
59. Poutine
60. Carob chips
61. S’mores (35) --- Again my children to the rescue.
62. Sweetbreads
63. Kaolin
64. Currywurst
65. Durian
66. Frogs’ legs
67. Beignets, churros, elephant ears or funnel cake (36)
68. Haggis --- CP, you are brave.
69. Fried plantain (37)
70. Chitterlings, or andouillette
71. Gazpacho (38)
72. Caviar and blini --- (39) Can't believe I have had caviar on shores of the Caspian sea (Iranian side).
73. Louche absinthe
74. Gjetost, or brunost
75. Roadkill
76. Baijiu ????
77. Hostess Fruit Pie (40)
78. Snail (41) --- Std. French, escargots, not bad
79. Lapsang souchong ????
80. Bellini
81. Tom yum (42)
82. Eggs Benedict (43)
83. Pocky
84. Tasting menu at a three-Michelin-star restaurant --- Not had the tasting menu, but on my very soon to do list.
85. Kobe beef (44)
86. Hare
87. Goulash (45) --- My PhD guide was Hungarian, so were several co-students.
88. Flowers (46) --- Again using CP's logic, must have had some somewhere.
89. Horse --- I hope I have not had this one.
90. Criollo chocolate --- I must have had this, but not counting for now.
91. Spam --- (47) Yuk !!!
92. Soft shell crab (48)
93. Rose harissa
94. Catfish (49)
95. Mole poblano (50)
96. Bagel and lox (51)
97. Lobster Thermidor (52) --- Overrated.
98. Polenta (53)
99. Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee (54) --- This is really good, had it in Jamaica
100. Snake

Not bad; 54 definite & 6 maybe.