And then there are some smart ones who display a fine example of their intelligence by tagging me as, Rockin’ Girl Blogger. Amrita, who I believe is, by far one of the best bloggers in the country and no I am not just buttering the situation (she seriously is as cool as me) picked yours truly in her fine list of Rockin’ Girl Bloggers. And so carrying on with the tagging tradition, I present to you some of my favorite Girly Bloggers who in the true beauty pageant style have it all, Beauty and Brains – Boys, I hope you are paying some close attention here.

The Idea-Smithy: First and foremost, I will take this opportunity to clear the misconception; No, it’s not her mission to eliminate the opposite the sex from the face of this planet. In fact she is as gentle as a lamb, as gentle as a bird’s feather – Okay I realize I am getting carried off here but I am sure you get the drift. But really, she is one of funniest and wackiest woman I know, online and offline. Love you babes!

Filmiholic: Now you won’t believe who got us two together, it’s none other than the ex-Hero No. 1; Yup people it’s true, apna golo-molu Govinda is da-man. He happens to be her favorite and he happens to be my neighbor and with the help of some un-seen Bollywood forces, we pranced upon each other’s blogs. But what’s truly commendable is her passion towards an art form that has nothing to do with her culture. And I so love the fact that she covers off-beat cinema as well and is not hung up on the commercial junk. If you love Bollywood, then you have to have her on your Blog Roll.

Without Giving The Movie Away: Again Bollywood fanaticism is the common ground here. Though I still have to meet the lady in person, but from whatever I have read and heard, she is one hard critic to please. If you ever our confused as to which film to watch or not to watch, then just hop over to her blog and believe me your problem would be solved in a jiffy.

(Meeta, see I did the deed of endorsing your blog at least now toh to give Sallu some rave reviews.)

Twilight Fairy: Bumped into her sometime last during the Global Voices Meet in New Delhi. And since then have been pestering to back up her bags and move away from the Rediff. I mean really such a waste of quality content on an un-attractive platform, Word Press totally rules. Not only is Ms. Fairyji excellent in her writings, she is a very talented photographer as well. Check out her Flickr account and you will get exactly what I mean. Though I really wish she would blog more often – So Fairyji, I hope you are reading this.

And finally I have saved the best for last,

The Voice in My Head: Yes, you are correct, how can this list be complete without the other half of the Ram-Lakhan Jodi. Let me just point it out here, she is the Ram and not me.

I met Melody via Mumbai Blog Meet almost two years ago and it’s sort of mind-boggling how you connect with someone only on the basis of what you read on their blogs. She is talkative (we actually do have talk-a-thons), she is snooty, she is super sexy, she is extremely understanding, she is anti-Bollywood but most important of all, she has a heart of pure gold. Okay, okay…without getting the tear taps on, all I will say is that Mel is one of the finest people I have meet from the blogging world and I forever shall be thankful for her friendship. Mel, you are an absolute sweetheart.

Though some may believe that we two promote each other (on our blogs) on the basis of “You scratch my back and I scratch yours” - well all I have to say to them is, (let me put this is in bold), “Up Yours”.

It’s incredible isn’t it? I took up blogging two years ago just for the kicks of it, never thought that it would one day be responsible for introducing me to such exceptional individuals.

So there you have it girlies, now it’s time to shower me with high praises and don’t forget throw in some Link Love as well.

With a number as high as 15 million, there are only a handful among its population who have managed to standout and make a place for themselves in the hierarchy of our dubious society. And keeping in mind the “7 Things about Mumbai” theme, here is my list of 7 most popular citizens of this city, who in very real terms ‘Live Life King size’.

Bal Thackeray – When you mention Mumbai and Politics in the same breadth, the one name that immediately makes its presence felt is, Bal Thackeray, the man behind the now “tainted” political party, Shiv Sena. Often referred to as the ‘Tiger’ by his followers, the cartoonist turned politician has been a center point of many controversies ever since he founded the hardline Hindu party more than 35 years ago. Frankly speaking, I completely detest this man and his party’s so-called philosophy of “sons of the soils”. The reasons are innumerable – their intimidating and (often) violent campaigns, fanatic beliefs, self appointed moral police behavior, vandalism and last but certainly not the least, Mr. Thackeray’s role in sparking anti-Muslim violence in Mumbai, which led to more than 1,000 deaths.

However, no matter how corrupt and immoral his actions have been over the years, the fact still remains that even today Bal Thackeray is described as the uncrowned monarch of the western Indian state of Maharashtra.

Continue Reading ’7 Famous Mumbaikars’

Jack & Jill – K. L. Saigal Ishytle

Listen Online (64 kbps) : Rhyme length: 53 seconds

And

Ba Ba Black Sheep – Various Indian Artists

Listen Online (64 kbps) : Rhyme length: 49 seconds

.

Underrated Superstars

Jinxed Is Thy Other Name (Enka Badluck hi Kharab hai)

Bollywood Shit-Box (Jub Uperwalla maherbaan toh Gadha pehalwan)

So men can remember them.

4. Why is it difficult to find men who are sensitive, caring and good looking?

They all already have boyfriends.

3. What are a woman’s four favorite animals?

A mink in the closet, a jaguar in the garage, a tiger in the bedroom, and an ass to pay for it all.

2. When does a woman care for a man’s company?

When he owns it.

and the classic one of the lot is…..

1. Why are married women heavier than single women?

Single women come home, see what’s in the fridge and go to bed. Married women come home, see what’s in bed and go to the fridge.

But being a Punju myself, I have noticed that the masses are often fed more of the mix-breed Punjabi version – you know Punjabi + Hindi = Pundi.

So inorder to get you non-punju folks a little more familiar with what is called *thheth Punjabi, I have compiled a list of Top Ten Punjabi Phrases along with their near-accurate meaning in English.

To get the pronunciation right, intake of neat desi-whiskey shots is highly recommended.

Here we go… (The list is in random order).

• Dur fitte munh : May you mouth burn in Hell. (Usually said when someone says something in-appropriate).
• Kaahli agge toye : Toye here means pot holes and kaahli means doing things very fast. (Said when one tends to do things very fast and eventually messes it up)
• Kucchar kudi shehr dhindora : The girl is in your hands, and you keep looking for her in the whole village. (When your arse is in your behind but instead you look for it elsewhere).
• Boohe aayi jhanj, te vinno kudi de kann : The baraat is just at the door, and you are now piercing the bride’s ears. (Used when you do something just at the last minute)
• Marr jaawaan gurd kha ke : That I’ll die by eating jageery. (Said to show affection for some one when he/she speaks some thing good for you)
• Kaent: Usually said referring to women. (meaning looking very sassy and sexy)
• Chak de fatte : I have no darn clue. (Usually said while experiencing high voltage of positive emotions)
• Khasma nu khaniye : Khasm means husband, so the phrase means ‘eat your husband’. (Used as a curse).
• Gurd naalon ishq mitha : Love is sweeter than jaggery. (Not sure if all will agree!)
• Kehre chakraan ch : Something is fishy.

And the famous of ‘em all –

Teri behn di (***Warning : Kindly think twice before muttering this)

Would like to assure all, no one related from Punjab was harm in the process except one super-sexy sardar dude. So in his memory I dedicate this post – Thank You Mr. Gurpalji.

* A special thanks to Ms. Twilight Fairyji.

Though we are more exposed to this industry’s glittery side but we are equally effected by its dark and much-more reality side – after all these “famous” faces also survive on emotions and sentiments.

Year 2006 will not only be known as the year of big-budget, multi-starer releases but also a year of controversies and gossips involving the top-notch personalities of desi-filmy duniya.

Here is a re-cap of such incidents and episodes that made headlines across all media sections.

Himesh Reshammiya – The nasal singer with an inflated ego

Armed with his high-pitched notes, dressed in tight-fit denims and a sporty cap with a (mostly) constipated facial expression, Himesh made it to very top of Bollywood music countdowns. Every film he touched turned to gold; films such as Aashiq Banaya Aapne, Aksar and Tom, Dick & Harry till date are only known for their foot-tapping music. Songs like “Jhalak Dhikla Ja” and “Aashiq Banaya Aapne” became national anthems for many Bollywood lovers and misery for many well-tuned Bollywood singers and music composers.

Such was his nasal impact that many even accused his creations of being possessed with super-natural powers. But as they say, “With great power comes great responsibility” but sadly, our Sindhi bhai managed to even top the un-popularity charts with his starry tantrums and big mouth.

You either love him or truly hate him but undoubtly year 2006 belonged to this man and his even more popular nose.

Aamir Khan – The Basanti effect on and off-screen

Rand De Basanti was the past year’s first super-duper hit film at the box-office. The whole patriotism effect became an instant fashion statement among the youngsters while the main stream media went gaga over leading actor and his no-show-sha marriage with his girl-friend.

But Aamir didn’t stop there, known to take his work way too seriously Mr. Khan took on the battle of words (and chappals) with senior BJP leaders over the Sardar Sarovar Dam subject. The actor refused to budge from his stance inspite of several threats and banning of his next film release “Fanaa” in several theatres in state of Gujrat.

With two big hits under his belt, Aamir Khan once again proved his power at the Box-office and with his stance over the rehabilitation process for the villagers affected by the Dam Project; he is a perfect example when we say “Practice what you preach”.

Sanjay Dutt – Saved by Gandhi-giri

This is the year that Mr. Dutt (also know lovingly known as Munnabhai) will remember for the rest of his life. Not only did his film “Lage raho Munnabhai” set the cash-registers ringing non-stop but it also helped the star in creating a positive public image. And not to forget, Gandhigiri has once again become the talk of the town.

On personal front, his long pending court case over his involvement in 1993 Mumbai blasts also came to a happy ending – well nearly. The court acquitted him of serious conspiracy charges which could have landed him up in jail for a very long time. However he was found guilty under the Indian Arms Act and sentencing for this is still pending.

Currently Dutt Jr. is out on bail, thanks to his of very well-paid and highly-qualified lawyers who have managed to extend his bail application not once but on three occasions.

Whether the Munnabhai star will spend his 2007 New Years Eve in police custody or not, guess we will just have to wait and watch.

Abhishek Bachchan & Aishwarya Rai – Pyar Kiya Toh Darna Kya

Better half of Year 2006 was spent over gossips and news headliners involving Bollywood most talked about real-life jodi, Abhishek and Aishwarya.

Going by leading tabloids, it all began during the shooting of Umrao Jaan. Though the film was at its best only for putting its audience to sleep, the leading pair’s romance moved on from reel life to real life. Their affections were further fueled by the time the two were spending together while shooting for Dhoom 2 and other forthcoming movies like Guru and Sarkar 2.

The funny bit is that even though the couple themselves and their respective families have never uttered a word about their relationship or marriage but there have been many others who claim to know everything – family astrologer, uncle, temple priest and even a sari-shop owner.

Besides their romance, the two have been center of news for many other reasons as well. Abhishek started the year with a black-out, was the only positive performance in KANK, was honored with Yash Bharati award by the UP Government and ended the year with success of his recently released film Dhoom 2.

Ash manages to make news even with her giggly laughter. Known as the face of Bollywood across borders, she managed to hit the right notes with the success of her cross-over film Provoked and international cosmetic brand L’Oreal’s ad campaign. But as they say “With good comes bad”, she was quizzed by the Indian customs over a mystery parcel sent by one of her fans and was also accused of corrupting the minds of Bharitiya women with her lip-lock scene in Dhoom with super-stud Hrithik Roshan.

Whether the two super personalities will enter into a holy-matrimony or will Ms. Rai continue with her “Use them and leave them” attitude, well I guess only time will tell.

Besides the above mentioned Bollywood personalities, there were some others too who managed to grab our attention with their on and off screen antics and here are the honorable mentions.

Ram Gopal Verma: For controversial forthcoming remake film Ram Gopal Varma Ke Sholay.

Shah Rukh Khan vs. Amitabh Bachchan: It started with KANK, then went onto Don and now KBC3, what’s next to come as the result of this cold-war between Bollywood’s two megastars?

Hrithik Roshan: After many flops, Year 2006 has been really lucky Roshan Jr who has been riding high on success of India’s first very own superhero Krrish and the most stylish villain to ever hit the Bollywood screen in Dhoom 2.

Don vs. Jann-e-mann: Such incidents don’t happen very often in our Hindi film industry when two big-budget films hit the theatres on the very same Friday. But 2006 was a complete different story where we had Farhan Akhtar’s Don remake at one end and new comer Shirish Kunder’s multi-starer Jann-e-maan at the other end. Both films hogged the media attention for many weeks before and after release, though Don managed to gain 100% box office opening and overall success. On positive side, Jann-e-mann was gifted with critic’s praises and accolades.

Khosla Ka Ghosla – A film that no one had heard off, a film with bare minimum publicity, a film with an amazing starcast, a film with humor galore, a film that captured our heart. If you still haven’t watched this masterpiece, dude where the heck have you been living?

Overall Year 06 was bustling not only in terms of big releases and success of many small budget films but it also gave us a sneak peak in the lives of many high-profiled filmy celebrities with their ups and downs.

Now as a typical Bollywood fan, I hope the New Year manages to keep up with the pace of the previous year and turns out to be ever more entertaining.
Here’s wishing you all a very Happy New Year, Bollywood Ishstyle.

Mobile 9 – Free downloadable themes for not only Windows Mobile but many other platforms as well; Nokia, Motorola, Sony Ecrisson, Siemens, O2 and many more. They also provide free ringtones (MP3, Wav, Midi, etc.), videos (3gp, MP4, WMV, etc.) and wallpapers.

Though they have plenty of themes stored up, I won’t call them top-notch ones. But if you have time and patience then you might just find some that suit your fancy. The other down-side would be that though downloads are free, there are a few restrictions if you use their service without registrations – number of download per day restrictions and time delay while downloading.

Freeware Pocket PC – The name is pretty self explanatory. The site is loaded with freeware programs for Windows Mobile PDA and cell phones. Games, Clocks, Calculators, Converters, Maps, Videos – basically everything under the sun. What makes it even better is that it requires no registrations, there are no download limits and no time delays.

The only downside I thought to be was that firstly the themes are not categorized at all, so basically you have to dig thru the entire lot inorder to download specific types of themes such as cartoons, actors, animals, etc.

And my most favorite theme site is?

PocketPC Themes – Now this is solely dedicated to Pocket PC themes only. Their database is huge with many top-quality themes. The themes are appropriately categorized which saves times as you can straight away click on specific types of themes without the hassle of going thru many others. They also have a huge stock of animated themes, which are compatible mostly with Windows based PDAs. Everything here is absolutely free and requires no registration whatsoever.

Do check out these sites and let me know what you think of them and also if you known such likes, kindly do jot them down in the comments section.

Bull Market – A random market movement causing an investor to mistake himself for a financial genius.

Bear Market – A 6 to 18 month period when the kids get no allowance, the wife gets no jewelry and the husband gets no sex.

Stock split – When your ex-wife and her lawyer split all your assets equally between themselves.

Market Correction – The day after you buy stocks.

Cash Flow – The movement your money makes as it disappears down the toilet.

Day Trader – Someone who is disloyal from 9-5.

Institutional Investor – Past year investor who’s now locked up in a nut house.

Standard & Poor – Your life in a nut shell.

Stock Analyst – Idiot who just downgraded your stock.

Profit – Religious guy who talks to God.

And the winner is

Bill Gates – Where God goes for a loan.

From Amitabh Bachchan to his son and his popular girl-friend, from Nikhil Advani to pro-ace Ashutosh Gowariker, from Super-stud Hrithik Roshan to wanna be stud John Abraham, from re-knowned Mira Nair to the man always in the news for the very wrong reasons Mr. Ram Gopal Verma – the New Year has all the masala ingredients of Hindi cinema.

But which peps up your movie buds, let us know.

Result:

Wow 46.6% votes for Abhishek Bachchan’s Guru. Now we would have to wait and watch if this film is able to create the same reaction at the Box Office this coming Friday.