This is in continuation to the post, 'I feel pretty'. I started this journey of weight loss about 1 and half years ago. Today I weigh 53 kilos, fit , healthy and enjoying life. This has been the best journey of my life and will continue to be so.
Now, it's all a part of my life, the running, the food control. That is what makes me happy. Knowing that I have a control upon my own life, is a good thing.
I am a singer, and often see myself on stage, giving concerts, receiving prizes, etc. Now, I don't have to cringe, looking at my photos. :) I can buy standard size clothes, which IS a really big thing for me. I don't have to feel conscious when I go out, clothes shopping. I am just so proud of myself, I can't tell you how much. :P
Monday, January 26, 2009
Friday, January 23, 2009
Why!?
Just like everyone of you, I watched Slumdog Millionaire. Just like half of you I am blogging about it. So, why should you read mine? Well if you blogged about it, or read all the blogs about it, why shouldn't you read mine?
Point number 1: I was NOT impressed by the movie. I am not saying it is a bad movie or something. But I just don't get why the movie is so 'great'.
Point number 2: I was not impressed by the music. A.R.Rehman can do better and has done better. I am a big fan of Rehman. Nothing against the great maestro.
Point number 3: If you think I am just being too snobbish or whatever, don't bother to read on. This is just my opinion. That is what blogs are all about, right?
Now, why was I not impressed by the movie?
I am not saying the movie was bad. It is good. I have read 'Q & A' by Vikas Swarup. Now you must be thinking, here goes miss-I-Have-read-the-book-and-the movie-could-have-been-better. And one of my friends has already pointed out that people who read books say the same line each time about movie adaptations. But, No. This movie was a good adaptation. The book had too many characters. Colourful, to read in a book and visualize,but adapting that many characters on screen would have lead to confusion. They seem to have used the same foundation for the movie, but they have modified the story a lot. But, as a whole, the movie failed to impress me. The acting of the lead character Dev Patel failed to make an impact. The face was blank, with a bewildered expression mostly, forced smiles at times. Agreed those were the major emotions he was supposed to portray, but he wasn't a great eye-catching item in the movie, in any way. And the scene where the boy falls in the pit of faeces in order to see Bacchan was indeed uncalled for. Was this scene put in, to emphasize that he is actually 'slumdog'? Like we didn't know and needed telling!!! The movie left me with a lot of unanswered questions. I still have a lot of Hows whats and whys unanswered, even after watching the movie. I don't get the point why it is so hyped.In my opinion, Taare Zameen par was definitely a better movie, in all aspects. It definitely deserved an academy award nomination.
And about Rehman's music, I am sure I can get lot of people to agree with me that this was not Rehman at his best. Definitely not the song 'Jai ho'. If any of you have been fans of songs like 'Tu Hi Re', 'Kehna hi kya', 'Dil Se', 'Bombay theme', 'Vande Mataram','Chayya chayya' and numerous other songs of his which never seem to get old,you would probably agree with me about this. Yes, We are all happy that he won a Golden Globe. But the movie's music isn't great. I am neither being biased nor prejudiced against anyone here. Every day at least once, I still listen to 'Tu Hi Re', 'Bombay theme' and 'Jaage hai der tak' from 'Guru'.There has never been as versatile a composer as Rehman, nor will there ever be any. But something was amiss here, in this movie. I did not feel the 'Rehman touch'.
I have a few friends who agree with me here. My mom, of course. She was so disappointed with the movie, my blog doesn't even come close to explaining how disappointed she was. She felt it was bland. And literally loathed the 'slumdog' scene. My friend Harsha, an even bigger movie buff than me, was disappointed too, more so with the music than the movie. Though, he adds that 'Dreams on fire' is one good piece of music in the movie, and is much better than 'Jai ho'. And mind you, he hasn't read the book. Another friend, Sumanth, agrees, that the movie was nothing great. And an online friend of mine, an about-to-be management graduate from JBIMS, Mumbai, Mr.Nikhil agrees TZP better deserved the red-carpet treatment that Slumdog Millionaire is getting, talking with respect to academy award nominations.
Disclaimer: I have nothing against the movie, the music, Mr.Rehman or the awards this movie has won. I am glad India is carving a niche for itself. But I wish it would have been through a movie like 'Taare Zameen par' rather than this.
If you don't agree with me, or if you are a huge fan of Slumdog Millionaire, I am sorry you had to read this blog.But, I have no regrets about my opinion.
Point number 1: I was NOT impressed by the movie. I am not saying it is a bad movie or something. But I just don't get why the movie is so 'great'.
Point number 2: I was not impressed by the music. A.R.Rehman can do better and has done better. I am a big fan of Rehman. Nothing against the great maestro.
Point number 3: If you think I am just being too snobbish or whatever, don't bother to read on. This is just my opinion. That is what blogs are all about, right?
Now, why was I not impressed by the movie?
I am not saying the movie was bad. It is good. I have read 'Q & A' by Vikas Swarup. Now you must be thinking, here goes miss-I-Have-read-the-book-and-the movie-could-have-been-better. And one of my friends has already pointed out that people who read books say the same line each time about movie adaptations. But, No. This movie was a good adaptation. The book had too many characters. Colourful, to read in a book and visualize,but adapting that many characters on screen would have lead to confusion. They seem to have used the same foundation for the movie, but they have modified the story a lot. But, as a whole, the movie failed to impress me. The acting of the lead character Dev Patel failed to make an impact. The face was blank, with a bewildered expression mostly, forced smiles at times. Agreed those were the major emotions he was supposed to portray, but he wasn't a great eye-catching item in the movie, in any way. And the scene where the boy falls in the pit of faeces in order to see Bacchan was indeed uncalled for. Was this scene put in, to emphasize that he is actually 'slumdog'? Like we didn't know and needed telling!!! The movie left me with a lot of unanswered questions. I still have a lot of Hows whats and whys unanswered, even after watching the movie. I don't get the point why it is so hyped.In my opinion, Taare Zameen par was definitely a better movie, in all aspects. It definitely deserved an academy award nomination.
And about Rehman's music, I am sure I can get lot of people to agree with me that this was not Rehman at his best. Definitely not the song 'Jai ho'. If any of you have been fans of songs like 'Tu Hi Re', 'Kehna hi kya', 'Dil Se', 'Bombay theme', 'Vande Mataram','Chayya chayya' and numerous other songs of his which never seem to get old,you would probably agree with me about this. Yes, We are all happy that he won a Golden Globe. But the movie's music isn't great. I am neither being biased nor prejudiced against anyone here. Every day at least once, I still listen to 'Tu Hi Re', 'Bombay theme' and 'Jaage hai der tak' from 'Guru'.There has never been as versatile a composer as Rehman, nor will there ever be any. But something was amiss here, in this movie. I did not feel the 'Rehman touch'.
I have a few friends who agree with me here. My mom, of course. She was so disappointed with the movie, my blog doesn't even come close to explaining how disappointed she was. She felt it was bland. And literally loathed the 'slumdog' scene. My friend Harsha, an even bigger movie buff than me, was disappointed too, more so with the music than the movie. Though, he adds that 'Dreams on fire' is one good piece of music in the movie, and is much better than 'Jai ho'. And mind you, he hasn't read the book. Another friend, Sumanth, agrees, that the movie was nothing great. And an online friend of mine, an about-to-be management graduate from JBIMS, Mumbai, Mr.Nikhil agrees TZP better deserved the red-carpet treatment that Slumdog Millionaire is getting, talking with respect to academy award nominations.
Disclaimer: I have nothing against the movie, the music, Mr.Rehman or the awards this movie has won. I am glad India is carving a niche for itself. But I wish it would have been through a movie like 'Taare Zameen par' rather than this.
If you don't agree with me, or if you are a huge fan of Slumdog Millionaire, I am sorry you had to read this blog.But, I have no regrets about my opinion.
Some things in life..
It's been sometime since I did any blogging. Enough of narcissism for a while( I will get back to it though. ;) ) Something prompted this post. This particular incident happened a few days back and I have been meaning to write about it.
I was bored at home during the holidays, and decided to take a walk. It was about 3.30-4 in the afternoon and it was a pleasant day. I rarely walk around on busy roads and that day was no exception either. As usual, by force of habit, I was messaging someone or fiddling with my phone, I am not too sure. And I heard a shrill voice behind me say "Appa, Kaalu Novtha ide"(Dad, my legs are paining.").What I saw when I turned back, was a little girl of about 8,dressed in a school uniform which wasn't in a great condition, walking beside a man of about 35,who was thin and haggard looking, unshaved, who was pushing a bicycle alongside.
The man looked exhausted pushing the bicycle after what must have been a tough day of labour. He parked his bicycle by the footpath, lifted the little girl by her waist and gently set her down on the bicycle bar. The girl had a big smile on her face and the father gave her a tired looking smile and removed the stand of the cycle and started pushing the cycle towards their destination. The girl went on in her chirpy little voice, probably her day's activities at school.They went past me, I couldn't hear them anymore. I could just see the man nodding his head to whatever the daughter was saying. And off they went.This was a small incident which consumed less than two minutes of my day's time. But something which left an impression somewhere, in my heart.
I can get all philosophical about the situation. But I leave it to you this time, to see it all for yourself. Picture this in your head. Hope you also get a feel of the emotional rollercoaster ride that I experienced.
I was bored at home during the holidays, and decided to take a walk. It was about 3.30-4 in the afternoon and it was a pleasant day. I rarely walk around on busy roads and that day was no exception either. As usual, by force of habit, I was messaging someone or fiddling with my phone, I am not too sure. And I heard a shrill voice behind me say "Appa, Kaalu Novtha ide"(Dad, my legs are paining.").What I saw when I turned back, was a little girl of about 8,dressed in a school uniform which wasn't in a great condition, walking beside a man of about 35,who was thin and haggard looking, unshaved, who was pushing a bicycle alongside.
The man looked exhausted pushing the bicycle after what must have been a tough day of labour. He parked his bicycle by the footpath, lifted the little girl by her waist and gently set her down on the bicycle bar. The girl had a big smile on her face and the father gave her a tired looking smile and removed the stand of the cycle and started pushing the cycle towards their destination. The girl went on in her chirpy little voice, probably her day's activities at school.They went past me, I couldn't hear them anymore. I could just see the man nodding his head to whatever the daughter was saying. And off they went.This was a small incident which consumed less than two minutes of my day's time. But something which left an impression somewhere, in my heart.
I can get all philosophical about the situation. But I leave it to you this time, to see it all for yourself. Picture this in your head. Hope you also get a feel of the emotional rollercoaster ride that I experienced.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
A few good words :)
This blog is more of a 'thank u' note,than just expression of thoughts and feelings.
Today I am a lot because of the few good words that people around me spoke.A few good words,is all it takes,to make someone's life. Believe me,it's true.
When I was a kid,about 3 years old. I used to sing all the usual songs kids would sing,Rhymes and some music I used to hear on tv. But the people around me felt that I sang exceptionally well and they said so,to my parents and to me too. Those few good words that they spoke that day,is the important reason,why I am a successful singer today.
When I learnt and wrote my first alphabets,my teacher took time to tell me,individually,that I was quick,a fast learner. I still do not know,till today whether she said that to all the kids . But I am glad,she told me,coz she made me feel good and proud of myself that day. I learnt to expect more and more from myself,and got better,every time.
When I was asked to teach music at a small orphanage when I was about 14 years old,I did that gladly. The lady in charge of the orphanage,took time,amongst all her responsibilities to tell me she was glad for my help and thanked me for all the patience and care. I do not remember your name aunty,sorry,but I thank u,coz my heart still cares and beats the same way,it used to,that day.Because today,I know it matters,I know it mattered that day to u.
To the kid,Manjula,in the orphanage,a wonderful listener and a learner,a few words. 'I don't know where you are today. I later learnt that you got adopted by a good family. I am glad for you,and I hope you're happy.You must be in high school by now.But,I want to tell u,that the interest you showed in my singing,and the look of admiration in your eyes,did wonders to my self-confidence,that day.'
And referring to my previous blog,i have now lost totally around 14 kilos. I am happy and thankful. A few good words by the precious gems around me is the reason why I feel so good today. Thanks again,Pavan,for every word you have ever said to me. and Malloo,you are an exceptional friend. I have no words to tell u how much u matter to me,actually. Every word u ever said,every good thing u ever said about me,will stay fresh in my heart,forever. I am a lot due to you,your selfless words.
And also thanks to all the people around me who are playing a key role,in restoring my faith in 'magic'. ;)
This is not just about me.Take time to think what I am actually talking about. A few good words. Next time,You feel like giving someone a compliment,just go and do it. A few good words,never hurt. The face that lights up with the smile,after hearing the compliment that you give him/her,will make everything worth it. By saying a few good words,You might just make someone's day.
Today I am a lot because of the few good words that people around me spoke.A few good words,is all it takes,to make someone's life. Believe me,it's true.
When I was a kid,about 3 years old. I used to sing all the usual songs kids would sing,Rhymes and some music I used to hear on tv. But the people around me felt that I sang exceptionally well and they said so,to my parents and to me too. Those few good words that they spoke that day,is the important reason,why I am a successful singer today.
When I learnt and wrote my first alphabets,my teacher took time to tell me,individually,that I was quick,a fast learner. I still do not know,till today whether she said that to all the kids . But I am glad,she told me,coz she made me feel good and proud of myself that day. I learnt to expect more and more from myself,and got better,every time.
When I was asked to teach music at a small orphanage when I was about 14 years old,I did that gladly. The lady in charge of the orphanage,took time,amongst all her responsibilities to tell me she was glad for my help and thanked me for all the patience and care. I do not remember your name aunty,sorry,but I thank u,coz my heart still cares and beats the same way,it used to,that day.Because today,I know it matters,I know it mattered that day to u.
To the kid,Manjula,in the orphanage,a wonderful listener and a learner,a few words. 'I don't know where you are today. I later learnt that you got adopted by a good family. I am glad for you,and I hope you're happy.You must be in high school by now.But,I want to tell u,that the interest you showed in my singing,and the look of admiration in your eyes,did wonders to my self-confidence,that day.'
And referring to my previous blog,i have now lost totally around 14 kilos. I am happy and thankful. A few good words by the precious gems around me is the reason why I feel so good today. Thanks again,Pavan,for every word you have ever said to me. and Malloo,you are an exceptional friend. I have no words to tell u how much u matter to me,actually. Every word u ever said,every good thing u ever said about me,will stay fresh in my heart,forever. I am a lot due to you,your selfless words.
And also thanks to all the people around me who are playing a key role,in restoring my faith in 'magic'. ;)
This is not just about me.Take time to think what I am actually talking about. A few good words. Next time,You feel like giving someone a compliment,just go and do it. A few good words,never hurt. The face that lights up with the smile,after hearing the compliment that you give him/her,will make everything worth it. By saying a few good words,You might just make someone's day.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
I feel pretty!!
If u have seen the movies,anger management,west side story or analyze that,you'll remember this song."I feel pretty,oh,so pretty....".I kinda feel pretty,that's why i am remembering this song right now.
I have an elder brother,working in the corporate sector who was also pretty much overweight. He had been in states,working on some project.And poof!!! when he comes to India,he's all fit and smart and great-looking. Though initially all i felt was jealousy,he turned out to be my inspiration,my mentor through out this journey.
There aren't things that I haven't tried. I went to a cool gym and worked out. When all others were losing weight,the scales weren't dipping much for me,again depression and more food. I used to cry myself to sleep almost every night. I have tried all diets possible,only to bounce back,hungrier than ever. I should have realized,that the fat was accumulated over years and wouldn't easily budge. But all i worried,was about losing weight. I couldn't even think logically about it.
And then one day,about 2 and a half months ago,I went to the parlour and got a haircut.Short,shoulder-length.People actually told me that I looked good.That got me thinking.May be i wasn't ugly after all. Maybe it was only the fat. Maybe I could do something about it. And the first person i turned to was my brother. In spite of my past failures in this field,he trusted me enough to buy me a treadmill. And showed me something that i enjoy doing,running.
After two and a half months of running and food control,i weigh 61 kilos now. 11 kilos less than i used to weigh. I run everyday for nearly an hour.Half in the morning,and half in the evening. Amazed at my progress my bro even got me a cycle.Remember,i said food control and not diet. I still eat what i used to eat. But the quantity is less. I occassionally treat myself to something,but i have learnt to compensate for it,in my own ways.
To all the people who supported me through this,I can't express in words how much it meant. I specially thank my bro for trusting me when no one did,my mom and dad for words of encouragement,Jai aunty,coz she kept on telling me I looked better and better each time she saw me,Pavan,coz he listened to all my talk patiently and helped me and supported me all the time,my friends mallu and benny for looks of amazement and happiness on seeing that i had lost so much weight. And all u people who ever complimented me and encouraged me with a few good words.
At 61 kilos,I am still not the right weight for my age,It's a process,still going on.And I know I'll reach my goal.And for all those who looked shocked seeing at me and still never complimented me or even mentioned anything about how i looked,I just wanna say "I read the look on your faces.I know you're jealous. It only spurs me on and makes me feel better. Be at it and I'll get better than you". :P :)
It was nice pouring all this out.I gotta go run now. See ya,people!!
I,am Anupama,at 5'1",about three months ago,weighed about 72 Kilos, obese for my age,did not care about my appearance much. Even outside,mostly,i was treated the way i treated myself,except for a few lovely people. I had medium length hair which i didn't take care of,properly. And I am surprised my mirror didn't crack all those years when i looked at it.
Everyone used to tell me to lose weight,and i used to get depressed.Even in social gatherings I was compared with others and it hurt,like hell.Again depression,and there were times when only food could bring me out of depression.It,was like a vicious circle!!!I have an elder brother,working in the corporate sector who was also pretty much overweight. He had been in states,working on some project.And poof!!! when he comes to India,he's all fit and smart and great-looking. Though initially all i felt was jealousy,he turned out to be my inspiration,my mentor through out this journey.
There aren't things that I haven't tried. I went to a cool gym and worked out. When all others were losing weight,the scales weren't dipping much for me,again depression and more food. I used to cry myself to sleep almost every night. I have tried all diets possible,only to bounce back,hungrier than ever. I should have realized,that the fat was accumulated over years and wouldn't easily budge. But all i worried,was about losing weight. I couldn't even think logically about it.
And then one day,about 2 and a half months ago,I went to the parlour and got a haircut.Short,shoulder-length.People actually told me that I looked good.That got me thinking.May be i wasn't ugly after all. Maybe it was only the fat. Maybe I could do something about it. And the first person i turned to was my brother. In spite of my past failures in this field,he trusted me enough to buy me a treadmill. And showed me something that i enjoy doing,running.
After two and a half months of running and food control,i weigh 61 kilos now. 11 kilos less than i used to weigh. I run everyday for nearly an hour.Half in the morning,and half in the evening. Amazed at my progress my bro even got me a cycle.Remember,i said food control and not diet. I still eat what i used to eat. But the quantity is less. I occassionally treat myself to something,but i have learnt to compensate for it,in my own ways.
To all the people who supported me through this,I can't express in words how much it meant. I specially thank my bro for trusting me when no one did,my mom and dad for words of encouragement,Jai aunty,coz she kept on telling me I looked better and better each time she saw me,Pavan,coz he listened to all my talk patiently and helped me and supported me all the time,my friends mallu and benny for looks of amazement and happiness on seeing that i had lost so much weight. And all u people who ever complimented me and encouraged me with a few good words.
At 61 kilos,I am still not the right weight for my age,It's a process,still going on.And I know I'll reach my goal.And for all those who looked shocked seeing at me and still never complimented me or even mentioned anything about how i looked,I just wanna say "I read the look on your faces.I know you're jealous. It only spurs me on and makes me feel better. Be at it and I'll get better than you". :P :)
It was nice pouring all this out.I gotta go run now. See ya,people!!
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