Monday, November 30, 2015

Durga explains ‘Monkey’ baat’ to Lord Shiva (satire)


‘Darling,’ Lord Shiva gave a sheepish smile and looked at Durga, his wife. ‘What is this ‘monkey’ baat everyone is talking about?’
Durga sighed and looked up from her knitting. Winter was setting in and she needed to get the sweaters ready. Her devotees gave her saris bit none of them bothered about other apparel like pullovers and sweaters. It does get really cold up here in Kailash.
‘Dear Lord,’ she said. ‘Monkeys are integral with India and the lifestyle of Indians – the simians are reincarnation of God – they revered and treated with respect and temples are dedicated to them in every road corner.’
‘I know all that. What I don’t know is the meaning of monkey baat. Do they talk like us and get into quarrels? Is that what monkey baat is all about?’
Durga laughed.
‘No. This is a new trend of politics. He who loves to talk devotes sometime to talk to his subjects. He wants to always remain with his people and, what better way to do that than to talk to them over a public medium.’
‘But – they keep doing during that regularly in public meetings where millions throng to hear him out. They ignore rain and sun and wait or his arrival by the chopper.’
‘This days are gone,’ Durga explained. ‘You have seen the set of three monkeys? It is quite popular and can be seen in the showcase of politicians – the three represent the basic philosophy of good living. One of the three has its hand over its eyes, the second one has a hand covering its mouth, and the third has its hands covering its ears.’
‘Oh Durga,’ Shiva sounded irritated. ‘I know all that. The set of three signifies – see no evil, talk no evil, hear no evil. What is the connection with monkey baat?’
‘When a leader want to impress his subjects, he uses the philosophy of the three monkeys to get his message across.’ ‘I think this monkey baat is monopolized by only one leader.’
‘Yes. When leaders do not flow the ‘3-monkey’ philosophy, it gives rise to intolerance in society. There have been cases when someone has lost control over his speech. It results in a wide gap between what he says and what he intended to say and he tries to wriggle out by saying ‘I have been misquoted’ or ‘what I meant to say was not what has been assigned to me’
‘I see. That is the gist of ‘monkey’ baat, is it?’
‘Sort of, Durga picked up her knitting again. ‘Words and actions must be controlled – one just cannot slap someone in the face and justify it by saying that it was not meant to harm him but to kill a mosquito.’ (to be continued …)

Image courtesy wikimediacommons.org)

Lord Shiva learns of Moody’s plans to go to the Moon (satire)

The honey trap of Pat & Jolie (satire)

Baba Someday to use gobar gas and yoga for space flights (satire)


Foreign students for study in India nosedives from 13,961 in 2013 to 3,737 in 2014

Water scarcity in Prime Minister's constituency - blame it on Coca Cola

World Cup cricketer of Vadodara sells moong kachoris to make ends meet


Big B rides a scooter in Kolkata - shooting for another movie

International Jazz Festival at Stone Water Eco Resort in Goa

Ben Affleck talks on 'Batman V Superman'


Russian airstrike in Syrian town of Ariha kills at least 40

Turkey downed two Russian fighter jets - Putin says the US leaked its flight path

Gunman attacks Colorado abortion clinic - leaves 3 dead, 9 wounded

Saturday, November 28, 2015

Baba Someday to use gobar gas and yoga for space flights (satire)


Baba Someday was busy planning the launch of his spaceship with his select bunch of astronauts to make a trip to the Moon. He was delighted to have got the nod from none other than Moody himself. It did not take much convincing because Moody had implicit faith in the powers and abilities of Baba Someday.
Their meeting was short and to the point – no beating around the bush.
‘I have got just what you want,’ Baba Someday grinned as he occupied the chair opposite Moody. The Baba had a way with people. His charisma coupled with his black beard, black hair and the bare torso was an envy of many. He knew that he always stood out in any crowd.
‘Well what have you decided?’ Moody lowered his voice and asked in a whisper.
He was a firm believer in the saying that walls have ears and he did not want the secrets to leak out. Who knows – with the advancement of technology, there could be eavesdroppers thousands of miles away in USA or Russia or China or Japan.
‘Gobar gas,’ Baba Someday replied.
‘You mean gobar gas will propel your space vehicle?’ Moody asked.
‘Yes,’ the Baba replied calmly. ‘We have our cows. We are getting their milk and from that we are preparing ghee. We have also set up facilities to convert their dung into gas. It is already used for lighting our houses and the streets and even the biscuit and noodle factories.’
‘Wonderful – you are a true lover of the environment,’ Moody relaxed. ‘I must give you an award on Republic Day.’
‘Thank you.’
‘So much so for the propulsion system of your space vehicle. What about the astronauts? Have you formed your team?’ ‘They are already undergoing training.’
‘What? How have you managed to make a anti-G chamber so soon? How will they get accustomed to weightlessness? What about their diet?’
Baba Someday grinned.
‘It is all done through yoga. My team is training on fasting for at least 30-days at a time. Then they are getting trained on hypnotism. These are what our sages used to do. They used to sit under trees and meditate for months together.’
‘Good – if they could have done it, why not your boys!’
‘And, I am redesigning their training course to make it compatible to modern times,’ Baba added. ‘I am sure they will succeed in their mission.’
Moody heaved a sigh of relief. Baba Someday can be trusted to deliver – he will help Moody add yet another feather to his already crowded cap. (to be continued …)

Image courtesy wikimediacommons.org)

The 'Pat & Jolie' instant noodles worry Lord Shiva (satire)

Make in India (satire)

Pat & Jolie and their biscuit making (satire)


Murder of Uzbek belly dancers in Hapur

Maggi instant noodles - 3.3-crore packets vanish within 10 days

Indians hate holidays - India is 4th most holiday-starved nation


Music venues in UK beef up their security in view of Paris terror attacks

Academy Award winner Kate Winslet and The Dressmaker

Sir Terry Wogan drops out of presenting Children In Need citing health reasons


The terror attacks in Paris bring Obama and Putin into a huddle

France joins Russia in joint airstrikes against ISIS in Raqqa

Suicide bombings by Boko Haram kill 49 in Nigeria

Friday, November 27, 2015

Lord Shiva learns of Moody’s plans to go to the Moon (satire)


It was morning and Lord Shiva had finished his breakfast – the dose of ganja had been a bit too much last night and he still felt drowsy. But – if he remained in bed, Durga would heckle him and, he did not want to be tagged a hen-pecked husband. So, like a good husband, he had brushed his teeth and had munched a handful of peanuts.
By the time he finished the peanuts, his trusted lieutenant Bhringi brought him his morning cup of green tea. He took a sip and felt rejuvenated.
Suddenly he heard noises in the distance – it sounded like the noise of an airplane. He was surprised and looked at Bhringi.
‘That is the sound of an engine being tested,’ Bhringi clarified.
‘An engine in this remote part of Mount Kailash?’ Lord Siva asked. ‘What engine?’
‘An aircraft engine.’
‘Aircraft engine here in Kailash?’
‘Yes – it is a top secret project of Moody,’ Bhringi replied. ‘Only a few of his men know about it. He is fast running out of countries to visit. So – he has set his sights on the Moon.’
‘I don’t believe,’ Lord Shiva said.
‘But it is true,’ Durga replied. She had joined him with her cup of tea. ‘Our friend Moody loves to think out of the box. He has made friends with big countries who have agreed to help him in his venture with necessary expertise.’
‘You mean different countries will contribute towards making the vehicle?’
‘Exactly. They all love him. One of them would give the engine, another one the body, a third will give the navigation system and the fourth will provide the pilot.’
‘A very interesting affair I must say,’ Lord Shiva handed over the empty cup to Bhringi. ‘And – what will he talk about on the Moon?’
‘Well – his agenda has not been disclosed,’ Durga whispered. ‘But, from what I have heard, since there are no humans on the Moon, he will take his ministers along with him. Of course, only a few like Jet Lee and Ranee-ji and Sue Sharma will get first preference. They are very close to him.’
‘And – what gift will he carry in case he does meet someone on the Moon?’
‘Probably moonstones, a copy of James Bond novel Moonraker and a video of Michael Jackson’s Moonwalk.’ (to be continued …’)

Image courtesy wikimediacommons.org)

The 'Pat & Jolie' instant noodles worry Lord Shiva (satire)

Make in India (satire)

Pat & Jolie and their biscuit making (satire)


Murder of Uzbek belly dancers in Hapur

Maggi instant noodles - 3.3-crore packets vanish within 10 days

Indians hate holidays - India is 4th most holiday-starved nation


Music venues in UK beef up their security in view of Paris terror attacks

Academy Award winner Kate Winslet and The Dressmaker

Sir Terry Wogan drops out of presenting Children In Need citing health reasons


The terror attacks in Paris bring Obama and Putin into a huddle

France joins Russia in joint airstrikes against ISIS in Raqqa

Suicide bombings by Boko Haram kill 49 in Nigeria

Thursday, November 26, 2015

Lord Shiva tries to understand Moody magic (satire)


‘You have something on your mind?’ Durga-devi asked Lord Shiva as he sat staring into the distance. They had finished lunch and were sitting on top of a hillock in Mount Kailash enjoying the winter sunshine. The Lord was bareback as usual – Bhringi, his trusted assistant, never forgot to apply the special ash powder on his body. It was far better than any prickly heat powder or dandruff powder.
The Lord’s hair was tied in a huge knot on top of his head and he had never been troubled by dandruff.
‘I want to learn the tricks of the trade,’ Shiva said.
‘What tricks? Which trade?’ Durga did not understand.
‘Tell me why this Moody character keeps running from one country to another?’
‘He is certainly not playing musical chairs,’ Durga smiled.
‘Then why does he not stay in his own country for long? Is he running away from trouble?’
‘Actually he is new to this job. He is like a child with a brand new toy. He wants to show it off and impress the people. He is a lonely soul – he does not stay with his wife. So, he keeps himself distracted by meeting new people, visiting new places, learning new languages, tasting new food.’
‘Don’t tell me he loves to taste new food,’ Shiva objected. ‘From what I have heard, he never bites a morsel of food when away on tour. That is why his guests swoon over him – they do not have to bother what food to serve him. A glass of water or a glass of lime juice is all that he takes – and, an occasional slice of apple.’
‘Well – everyone has his likes and dislikes,’ Durga said. ‘But you must admit that he has showcased our culture and heritage wherever he has gone. When visiting other countries, he takes with him long lost boys. He has also instructed his people to search for lost souls who are stranded in other countries. He wants to bring them back.’
Lord Shiva sighed.
‘Yes – and he reciprocates good gestures with neighbors. He also wants to send back lost souls from neighboring countries who are stranded in his territory. He loves doing good deeds.’
Durga looked at the lengthening shadow of the trees and left her seat.
‘Tell me,’ Shiva asked, ‘If he is always on the move, when does he get the time to look into problems that need his attention.’
Durga laughed.
‘His problems are associated with cleanliness,’ she said. ‘There is dirt everywhere. He wants a clean slate to write on and is searching for just a slate. Then only can he begin writing.’ (to be continued…)

Image courtesy wikimediacommons.org)

The 'Pat & Jolie' instant noodles worry Lord Shiva (satire)

Make in India (satire)

Pat & Jolie and their biscuit making (satire)


Murder of Uzbek belly dancers in Hapur

Maggi instant noodles - 3.3-crore packets vanish within 10 days

Indians hate holidays - India is 4th most holiday-starved nation


Music venues in UK beef up their security in view of Paris terror attacks

Academy Award winner Kate Winslet and The Dressmaker

Sir Terry Wogan drops out of presenting Children In Need citing health reasons


The terror attacks in Paris bring Obama and Putin into a huddle

France joins Russia in joint airstrikes against ISIS in Raqqa

Suicide bombings by Boko Haram kill 49 in Nigeria

Tuesday, November 24, 2015

The honey trap of Pat & Jolie (satire)


Lord Shiva was polishing his trishul – the trishul or trident was his trademark, the trident, the snake and the tiger skin which was his attire. Nowadays he has difficulties in procuring tiger skins because the animals are under the protected category and killing them is a crime. Therefore, he has to depend on cheap imitations that Goddess Durga procures online.
He looked at Durga – she had the earplugs on and, with eyes half closed, was listening to songs.
Shiva gave a little cough – to draw attention.
Durga opened her eyes and removed the earplugs.
‘What is this I hear about honey?’ he asked.
‘Honey? You mean Honey Singh the singer?’
“No – I mean honey that is good for health.’
‘Oh – our friends Pat & Jolie have their setup. Their honey is cheap as compared to other well-known brands.’
‘Have we tasted it?’ Shiva was curious.
‘Well – they did send across samples. As they did for biscuits and noodles. I have kept them aside. I do not want to fall into any honey trap’
‘Why? Are they not safe?’
‘Don’t be silly – of course they are safe. But, I rely more on tried and trusted products. Newcomers must first gain acceptance. You just cannot bulldoze your way into any venture. Those who are experts in yoga should spread the message of yoga. Not indulge in business ventures.’
Shiva did not argue further. The lady of the house is always choosy and convincing them is not an easy matter.
Durga switched her very own special mobile phone with unlimited memory. She has to cater to millions of her devotees who keep sending her ‘help me’ messages. The mobile phone is a boon for her. Without it, she would not have been able to keep track of who wants what and when.
But – not for Lord Shiva. He has always been a Bohemian character and does not want to lose that mantle. He loves to remain aloof and Durga allows him the freedom – she does not want to face his tandaba dances. Of course, she loves the dances in the Bollywood movies – they are sooo similar to Shiva’s tandaba dances and lovely to watch from a distance. At times she wonders just how the heroes and heroines manage to gyrate so fast. Then she laughs it away as happening in the world of fantasy. (to be continued …)

(Image courtesy wikimediacommons.org)

The 'Pat & Jolie' instant noodles worry Lord Shiva (satire)

Make in India (satire)

Pat & Jolie and their biscuit making (satire)


Murder of Uzbek belly dancers in Hapur

Maggi instant noodles - 3.3-crore packets vanish within 10 days

Indians hate holidays - India is 4th most holiday-starved nation


Music venues in UK beef up their security in view of Paris terror attacks

Academy Award winner Kate Winslet and The Dressmaker

Sir Terry Wogan drops out of presenting Children In Need citing health reasons


The terror attacks in Paris bring Obama and Putin into a huddle

France joins Russia in joint airstrikes against ISIS in Raqqa

Suicide bombings by Boko Haram kill 49 in Nigeria

Friday, November 20, 2015

Pat & Jolie and their biscuit making (satire)


Lord Shiva was sipping a cup of tea - he hated tea and was more comfortable with ganja and, with Durga around, he had to curb his desires. He looked at her - she was sitting on a tiny mound near him and was munching biscuits along with her tea. Sensing his eyes on her, Durga looked at Shiva.
'Yes?' she asked.
'What is that?' Shiva put a counter question.
'It is a packet of biscuits - a courtesy pack,' Durga explained.
'You brought it back when you went to your mother's place?' Shiva asked.
'No silly. This is courtesy packets distributed by Pat & Jolie - they have taken up making biscuits.'
'I thought they were into instant noodles,' Shiva said.
'This is another venture of theirs,' Durga said. 'They are determined to capture one and all. Their USP is eat healthy, remain healthy.'
'You mean they want to drive the doctors out of business?'
'Well - they want a situation when the need of doctors would be minimum. No one would suffer from simple diseases like cough, cold, joint pains etcetera.'
'By means of biscuits?'
'They are using a secret formula - they are treating the dough with juice of medicinal herbs. Nothing is visible from outside and no one can be satisfied with just one. Lab tests will not reveal these hidden secrets. That is why they are distributing courtesy packs.'
'Do they have plans to enter the export markets?'
'But naturally - this is the age of Make in India and capture the global market.'
'Make in India? I always thought anything produced in India should be Made in India!!'
'Actually - Make in India is a relatively new concept where foreigners are invited to come to India to make the goods and export them.'
'I think is is too complicated,' Lord Shiva yawned and reached for his chillum of ganja. He made it a point to send his trusted follower Bhringi to scout around the Pat & Jolie setup to find out what they were actually up to. (to be continued ...)

(Image courtesy wikimediacommons.org)

Moody and the Humpty Dumpty syndrome (satire)

Winning elections is not as simple as making tea (satire)

Indian smugglers are celebs, boast of official doubles (satire)


Tea is a health drink - four cups a day can keep the doctors away

No more 'Rent-a-Womb' in India

Tourist bus ploughs into pedestrians in Union Square, San Francisco - 20 injured


Big B attends 21st Kolkata International Film Festival at Netaji Indoor Stadium

Alisha Chinai adds to the glamour quotient at Wembley Stadium

24th James Bond movie 'Spectre' earns USD 300 million in less than two weeks


Jihadi John killed by a 1000-mph missile striking his car

Edmund Fitzgerald sank in the Lake Superior 40 years back with 29 on board

Bomb in Airbus A321 responsible for Sinai Peninsula crash and 224 deaths

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

The 'Pat & Jolie' instant noodles worry Lord Shiva (satire)


Lord Shiva sniffed the air, stared into the distance and saw the range of mountains in his very own Kailash. His wife Durga sat beside him - she was engrossed in the memories of her mother's home and tried to piece together those fond memories in her mind.
'What is that smell?' Lord Shiva asked.
Durga also sniffed and became serious.
'That is the smell of instant noodles drying in the open,' she said.
'Instant noodles? Drying in the open?' Shiva was stunned.
'Yes - it is that new noodle factory that Pat & Jolie have set up,' Durga replied.
'Unbelievable!!' Shiva was surprised no end. 'Just imagine a noodle factory in this part of the world! Wonders will never cease! Where is this factory?'
'In Haridwar.'
'And - they are being dried in the open?'
'Yes - that is to ensure that the stuff absorbs the UV rays from the Sun,' Durga said. 'These noodles are not just safe but also much more healthy than what is available in the market.'
'That is good news,' Shiva said.' But - what are these UV rays?'
'UV rays means ultra violet rays. These are good for health. Actually - instant noodles available in the market had impurities like MSG in them. They are not safe for consumption. That is what prompted the new venture.'
'MSG?' again Lord Shiva appeared stumped.
'MSG is a chemical known as Monosodium Glutamate (MSG).'
'I thought MSG was the abbreviation you used in SMSs - short form of 'message'!' the Lord was satisfied. But - he had some other doubts.
'You said that Pat & Jolie have started this setup. Why should foreigners enter into a joint venture and interfere in our domestic affairs?'
Durga sighed.
'My dear husband - there are no foreigners in this. The name might sound to be imported but it is a totally Indian affair. Of course, Pat & Jolie does have an eye on taking over the international brands.'
'That would be great,' Shiva agreed. 'What is their USP?'
'Instant noodles - no MSG but with loads of UV rays added.'(to be continued ...)

(Image courtesy wikimediacommons.org)

Moody and the Humpty Dumpty syndrome (satire)

Winning elections is not as simple as making tea (satire)

Indian smugglers are celebs, boast of official doubles (satire)


Tea is a health drink - four cups a day can keep the doctors away

No more 'Rent-a-Womb' in India

Tourist bus ploughs into pedestrians in Union Square, San Francisco - 20 injured


Big B attends 21st Kolkata International Film Festival at Netaji Indoor Stadium

Alisha Chinai adds to the glamour quotient at Wembley Stadium

24th James Bond movie 'Spectre' earns USD 300 million in less than two weeks


Jihadi John killed by a 1000-mph missile striking his car

Edmund Fitzgerald sank in the Lake Superior 40 years back with 29 on board

Bomb in Airbus A321 responsible for Sinai Peninsula crash and 224 deaths

Tuesday, November 17, 2015

Make in India (satire)


Lord Shiva was happy that Durga had returned to Kailash with her children - but, he was not happy with all the noise being made about Make in India. A Baba had entered the scene and he had begun to make indigenous versions of popular foods that people had grown up with. Obviously, Lord Shiva wanted to know the background story. So - he summoned his sons Kartika and Ganesha to get the feedback.
'What is this new fashion trend?' a visibly irritated Shiva asked his son Kartika - he was wearing only a pair of jeans and his body was bare.
'This is the Sallu trend,' Kartika replied. 'He loves to showoff his muscles.'
'That is fine when he has fans swooning over him,' Shiva was serious. 'If you ask me, you look like clown. You are dressed up in a fashionable gear that displays your skinny figure. Who will swoon over you?'
Kartika did not bother to reply. Both of them had argued on this aspect on several occasions but Kartika just did not bother - he had Durga-ji on his side and he knew that Shiva cannot fight and win any argument with Durga.
Lord Shiva, therefore, turned to his other Ganesha.
He was a different kettle of fish. He loved his favorite modaks and, nowadays, the modak makers have begun to experiment with exotic additives - like chocolates. He relished these and, even had an occasion to taste the instant noodles long before it was banned because competitors wanted to edge out the foreign hands.
And, that is how Lord Shiva came to now about the Baba.
'Why is a saintly figure interested in manufacturing foodstuffs?' Shiva asked Ganesha.
'It is a part of the Make In India game,' Ganesha replied. 'The Baba is determined to be a game changer.'
'How?' Lord Shiva wanted to know. 'I thought his game was yoga.'
'Yoga has served its purpose. The current trend is Make In India,' Ganesha explained. 'People today have become health conscious. They can read the fine prints on the food packets without magnifying glasses and, in case, the level of dangerous substances are beyond limits, they discard the foods.'
'Oh,' Lord Shiva relaxed. 'Make In India is all about making hay while the Sun shines - right?'
'In a way you are right,' Ganesha grinned. 'I only hope the Baba takes more interest in modaks. I would love to see the modak makers introduce cheese into the delicious modaks. They would taste still better with French cheese.'
'But - you just now said that the Baba wants to drive out foreigners. And - you want foreign cheese in your modaks!!' 'Don't worry Papas,' Ganesha grinned. 'There is always some hidden foreign agenda at work.' (to be continued ...)

(Image courtesy wikimediacommons.org)

Moody and the Humpty Dumpty syndrome (satire)

Winning elections is not as simple as making tea (satire)

Indian smugglers are celebs, boast of official doubles (satire)


Tea is a health drink - four cups a day can keep the doctors away

No more 'Rent-a-Womb' in India

Tourist bus ploughs into pedestrians in Union Square, San Francisco - 20 injured


Big B attends 21st Kolkata International Film Festival at Netaji Indoor Stadium

Alisha Chinai adds to the glamour quotient at Wembley Stadium

24th James Bond movie 'Spectre' earns USD 300 million in less than two weeks


Jihadi John killed by a 1000-mph missile striking his car

Edmund Fitzgerald sank in the Lake Superior 40 years back with 29 on board

Bomb in Airbus A321 responsible for Sinai Peninsula crash and 224 deaths

,

Friday, November 13, 2015

Indian smugglers are celebs, boast of official doubles (satire)


Smugglers in India enjoy a special pride of place in society ever since the times when an angry young man rose to power from being a shoe shine boy to become a dreaded smuggler who dictated terms to other more experienced ones.
Right now it is rumored that all the smugglers who have gone underground are shivering in their pants because of the emergence of a powerful man called Moody.
The lawbreakers are scared to come out of their cover because they are worried that Moody, one of the 10 most powerful men in the world right now, is gunning for them. Therefore, the meek surrender of one of their tribe came as a golden ray of sunshine for the electronic media.
It was the fabulous case of he who goes by the popular name of Chotu Ranjan - having realized that he stood no chance of escaping from the clutches of the law, he chose the easy way out. He chose to surrender. He knew that his return to India after nearly three decades would be a game changer. Hence a specialist team went to bring him back to the country to face trials for his misdeeds.
He delighted in showing the media how the handcuffs looked on his wrists.
And, in the background, film makers were trying to edge out competitors because all of them wanted to acquire exclusive rights to the story of Chotu Ranjan – it would be a future potboiler.
‘We want him to be lodged in a Mumbai jail,’ they said.
‘Yes,’ the would-be actors joined the chorus. All of them eyed the plum role they would like to portray.
But the ones in Delhi had other ideas.
‘No – he will be lodged in Delhi for safety,’ they said. At the back of their minds was to offload the asset to Hollywood – that way, the bond with the West, read America, would be stronger.
While the debate went on behind the scenes, Chotu Ranjan landed on Indian soil and was whisked away giving the media the miss – there was a double to divert attention. We have heard of doubles being used in case of celebrities but, India is probably the only country in the world where a common smuggler enjoys such privileges. (to be continued …)

(Image source wikimediacommons.org)

Moody wants ODIs in Silicon Valley (satire)

Fight fire with fire - have ‘Award Return Festivals’(satire)

Moody in the mute mood (satire)


Mad rush for tourists stranded in Egypt to return home

Study reveals that online shopping is good for health

Inmates use mouse to carry drugs between cells in Brazil prison


Amitabh Bachchan to inaugurate 21st edition of Kolkata Film Festival

Sandra Bullock planning an all-female version of Ocean's Eleven

Horror Museum in Colorado could be a money spinner


Bomb in Airbus A321 responsible for Sinai Peninsula crash and 224 deaths

Two Russian TU-142 Bear aircraft shooed off from USS Ronald Reagan

Iran has already executed 700 this year and the figure could cross 1000 by year end

Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Bharat Judai Party stacking wood for the funeral pyre (satire)


Once touted as the Bharat Jodo Party, it is now busy scripting a recipe for destruction and might be renamed the Bharat Judai Party. There is a saying of putting nails in the coffin – here it seems to be an attempts to pile wood on to the funeral pyre!
The leaders feel they can get away with blue murder and some of them keep trying out new concepts of how to stir the hornet’s nest and watch it disturb a well set combination. They make atrocious comments just to see the effect it has on the masses and, within no time, retracts it saying that they were misquoted.
Poor Moody was a frustrated leader and in a dilemma.
His lieutenants are creating problems and he has to keep mending fences not just with outsiders but also within his own party seniors. He knows that he is always at a disadvantage and tries to make up for it by his oratory powers. Dhokla and lime juice are fine at times but not always – there must be variety.
‘Why don’t we get on with our agenda?’ he asked the minsters sitting in front of him.
‘I have not lost track of my agenda,’ Uma-ji, the Ganga Madam replied. ‘The banks of the river in Varanasi are regularly being cleaned. I am also keeping a check on the depth of water – it has not increased but had not reduced either. That is a good sign – we certainly can introduce trips across the Ganges soon.’
‘How soon?’ Moody asked.
‘Well – once the other localities do their cleaning part. The clean-up mission is a joint effort.’
Moody now looked at his minister of education.
‘And – what about our plans to modify the syllabus to include you know what.’
Ranee-ji gave her well known smile.
‘Don’t worry – things are under control. We have yet to complete two years – what we have achieved within this short time is unparalleled in history. Did you not see how those students in FTII finally surrendered?’
Moody now looked from Gadcurry to Jet Lee, Sue Sharma, Vicky Singh, Hash Budden and Baba Someday. They were the pillars on which Moody’s success depended.
‘Since all of us are here, I want to know why some of our people make statements that do more harm to us than good.’ ‘Actually – they want to get noticed.’
‘Today they say something and tomorrow they say they were misquoted. Do they not know that the novelty wears off and the cutting edge gets blunt if any weapon is used too often?’
‘They are novices, new to this job. It is the learning curve. Give them some time and they will become our assets.’ ‘Anyway,’ Moody sighed. ‘Our seniors are unhappy with the latest election results.’
‘It is actually the generation gap that is showing up,’ Sue Sharma looked at Jet Lee for confirmation.

(Image source wikimediacommons.org)

Moody wants ODIs in Silicon Valley (satire)

Fight fire with fire - have ‘Award Return Festivals’(satire)

Moody in the mute mood (satire)


Mad rush for tourists stranded in Egypt to return home

Study reveals that online shopping is good for health

Inmates use mouse to carry drugs between cells in Brazil prison


Amitabh Bachchan to inaugurate 21st edition of Kolkata Film Festival

Sandra Bullock planning an all-female version of Ocean's Eleven

Horror Museum in Colorado could be a money spinner


Bomb in Airbus A321 responsible for Sinai Peninsula crash and 224 deaths

Two Russian TU-142 Bear aircraft shooed off from USS Ronald Reagan

Iran has already executed 700 this year and the figure could cross 1000 by year end

Tuesday, November 10, 2015

Winning elections is not as simple as making tea (satire)


The official stand of the debacle in Bihar and the preliminary findings that it was an example of collective failure has not gone down well with the old-timers of the party. These once popular leaders have now been sidelined because of their age. But have, still, had their say – and, they have, in one voice, condemned the people who had been at the helm of affairs in the state.
They have not mentioned names but have dropped enough hints to help identification.
‘The smell of success has gone to their heads,’ Lal-ji lamented. ‘And, they have begun to pay the price. First in Delhi and now in Bihar.’
‘This is the trouble of improper upbringing,’ Yashu-bhai added. ‘They feel politics is as simple as making tea. Just sir in a few ingredients to maintain the heat.’
‘They have become a family with no proper head,’ Double M sighed. ‘What they lack is a strong head. They may appear to be loaded with strength but it is all muscle strength. Their brains are not yet developed.’
‘The drubbing they got will keep haunting us forever,’ the cool one said. ‘Why did they have to stoop so low to conquer what should have been easy pickings?’
‘Actually, they have mixed up their priorities. They feel lung power coupled with muscle power will pay dividends,’ Lal-ji said.
‘That does not always happen when you have people who don’t know when to say what,’ Yashu-bhai was not happy. ‘Like the DNA affair. The problem magnified when the post offices were overloaded with samples of DNAs and did not know how to store them.’
‘Then the talks about fireworks across the border,’ Double M said. ‘Why should we worry about what they fire so long as those are not bullets or mortars? Moreover, Diwali is our festival and, we do not want to burst crackers to pollute the atmosphere. So, why bring it up at all?’
‘We all know the priorities but some people keep mixing them up. Why should we talk about dogs? We all know that dogs are a menace – not just in our country but all over the world. Why should we not let the sleeping dogs lie?’
‘Yes, we need to, instead, concentrate on building the temple. That was our priority.’
‘But, our folks seem to have forgotten which temple and where.’
‘And – not worry too much about cows. They provide us with milk and milk products but not votes.’
‘By the way – there is a drive on to locate adulterated sweets. Has anyone researched as to why these surface only during festivals? An answer to this question could get us more votes the next time around.’ (to be continued …)

(Image source wikimediacommons.org)

Moody wants ODIs in Silicon Valley (satire)

Fight fire with fire - have ‘Award Return Festivals’(satire)

Moody in the mute mood (satire)


Mad rush for tourists stranded in Egypt to return home

Study reveals that online shopping is good for health

Inmates use mouse to carry drugs between cells in Brazil prison


Amitabh Bachchan to inaugurate 21st edition of Kolkata Film Festival

Sandra Bullock planning an all-female version of Ocean's Eleven

Horror Museum in Colorado could be a money spinner


Bomb in Airbus A321 responsible for Sinai Peninsula crash and 224 deaths

Two Russian TU-142 Bear aircraft shooed off from USS Ronald Reagan

Iran has already executed 700 this year and the figure could cross 1000 by year end

Monday, November 9, 2015

Moody’s team blames dogs for the debacle (satire)


It had to happen and has happened. The sudden fall from grace was most unexpected and, as is usual, the blame game has started. It is strange that when there is success, there is invariably the ‘I’ factor that comes into prominence – ‘I have done this’, ‘I have given you that’, ‘I paved the way for prosperity’, ‘I brought light where there was darkness’ etcetera.
That was the agenda in front of Moody – who was really to blame, who was to be made the scapegoat.
Moody had with him his man of all seasons in the form of Jet Lee. He appeared to be out of form. Also present were Uma-ji – she had to put on hold her clean-up of the Ganges and devote some time to clean up the mess in their backyard. And, Vijay-ji was the third – he loved dogs.
‘Are we convinced that the trouble maker is Shotgun?’ Moody asked.
‘But naturally,’ Uma-ji was serious as always. ‘Do you know how many visits he made to the opposition camps?’
‘You have maintained records?’ Moody was surprised.
‘Yes,’ Uma-ji smiled – it was a rare occasion.
‘But, why? He is one of us,’ Moody was surprised.
‘Because he was the odd man out,’ Uma-ji replied. ‘He was always ambitious. He wanted to be a Bollywood hero but Amit-ji beat him to the pinch.’
‘Amit-ji?’ Moody fell from the roof. ‘I never knew that Amit-ji wanted to become a Bollywood hero.’
‘I mean Amitabh Bachhan and not Amit Shah,’ Uma-ji clarified.
‘Oh!’ Moody said. ‘So – what do we do now?’
‘Officially we let the world know that somewhere down the line, the arithmetic went wrong,’ Jet Lee mumbled.
‘We know all that,’ Vijay now spoke. ‘I think we should blame it on dogs.’
‘Dogs?’ Moody, Jet Lee and Uma-ji spoke in unison.
‘Yes – dogs are faithful animals. But, they also fight – you must have heard of dog-fights. And, they spread rabies – one bite means sixteen injections.’
‘Yes – stray dogs are a menace to society and must be uprooted,’ Moody nodded. ‘I think it should be a part of our Swatchh Bharat campaign. Eliminate stray dogs and make the roads safe for the people.’
‘That is an option,’ Jet Lee added.
‘Then let me have an estimate of funds that we would need,’ Moody heaved a sigh of relief.
Three heads are always better than one and he was happy at finding a solution.
When there is failure, usually vocal leaders lose their voices and try to merge into the background and remain there. The failure becomes a collective one and leaders grin and bear it. But, not with Moody. His band of men always had some solution at hand. (to be continued …)

(Image source wikimediacommons.org)

Moody wants ODIs in Silicon Valley (satire)

Fight fire with fire - have ‘Award Return Festivals’(satire)

Moody in the mute mood (satire)


Mad rush for tourists stranded in Egypt to return home

Study reveals that online shopping is good for health

Inmates use mouse to carry drugs between cells in Brazil prison


Amitabh Bachchan to inaugurate 21st edition of Kolkata Film Festival

Sandra Bullock planning an all-female version of Ocean's Eleven

Horror Museum in Colorado could be a money spinner


Bomb in Airbus A321 responsible for Sinai Peninsula crash and 224 deaths

Two Russian TU-142 Bear aircraft shooed off from USS Ronald Reagan

Iran has already executed 700 this year and the figure could cross 1000 by year end

Sunday, November 8, 2015

Moody and the Humpty Dumpty syndrome (satire)


Moody was pacing in his office and tearing his hairs – the world was curbing around him. He was like Humpty Dumpty who was sitting comfortably on a wall when he fell down. He was still trying to fathom out what caused him to fall – was it that DNA remark or the one about intolerance or was it the steep rise in prices of dal or the withdrawal of subsidy of LPG or increase in cancellation charges of the railways.
Suddenly, his White House hot line rang – it was Uncle Sam.
The phone had been ringing since morning when the news about the debacle broke and Moody was searching for a broad shoulder to cry upon but, Amit-ji was not available. His PA had informed that Amit-ji was bedridden – suffering from a headache. No – not a case of dengue fever but the result of an unknown virus attack fondly known as the Aloo-fever. Anyway, the White House hot line cannot be ignored. So, Moody picked up the receiver.
‘Hi buddy,’ it was the Big Man himself. ‘What is this I am hearing?’
‘I beg your pardon – please speak loudly. I am not able to hear you. The connection is not good,’ Moody squeaked.
The Big Man at the other end smiled.
‘It’s the Humpty Dumpty syndrome,’ he said. ‘It can happen. We must face the realities. Remember what Abe Lincoln had said – ‘you can fool all the people some of the time, and some of the people all the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time.’
‘Well,’ Moody gulped. ‘My doctor has come. I’ll talk later.’
‘By the way – you are headed to meet the Queen. Right?’
‘Yes.’
‘Better to have some more foreign trips lined up – it will help you to unwind and stay away from prying eyes and accusing fingers.’
‘I will.’
‘Take a friendly advice - learn to let down your hair. Don’t be tied down by rules and regulations – break away from the routine once in a while. By the way – do you hip-hop?’
‘No.’
‘Learn it – Silicon Valley knows how to do it. You have plenty of friends there - they will love to share their knowledge.’ (to be continued …)

(Image source wikimediacommons.org)

Moody wants ODIs in Silicon Valley (satire)

Fight fire with fire - have ‘Award Return Festivals’(satire)

Moody in the mute mood (satire)


Mad rush for tourists stranded in Egypt to return home

Study reveals that online shopping is good for health

Inmates use mouse to carry drugs between cells in Brazil prison


Amitabh Bachchan to inaugurate 21st edition of Kolkata Film Festival

Sandra Bullock planning an all-female version of Ocean's Eleven

Horror Museum in Colorado could be a money spinner


Bomb in Airbus A321 responsible for Sinai Peninsula crash and 224 deaths

Two Russian TU-142 Bear aircraft shooed off from USS Ronald Reagan

Iran has already executed 700 this year and the figure could cross 1000 by year end

Thursday, November 5, 2015

Moody’s ideas to revamp the media (satire)


The news shown on the national media appears to be bland and lacks the verve and zing of private channels and Moody was determined to set that right. Therefore, during one of his brief sessions at home, he summoned his I & B Minister.
‘Why should private TV channels have all the fun?’ he asked Jet Lee.
‘They have the money power,’ Jet Lee replied.
‘Let us clear the anomaly, let us give the employees a raise.’
‘Actually, they work on a shoestring budget,’ Jet Lee wrung his hands. ‘We have to increase that also.’
‘I don’t think that should pose any problem,’ Moody said. ‘We have generated plenty of funds through different means.’
‘That is OK – but, private channels enjoy much more freedom to work. They can experiment and they can induct talent and discard the deadwood.’
‘I think we should form a committee – who do you think should be in the committee?’
‘Well – we must have representations from women. Hence Ranee-ji and Sue-ji would be automatic choices.’
‘Yes – they have plenty of ideas.’
‘And, then we can have Baba Someday who can give ideas on alternative medicines. Hash Budden can also contribute his knowledge while Vicky Singh can look after the effects of global turmoil that needs to be analyzed in the proper perspective.’
‘Well – that would be a start for the audio visual medium. What about the broadcasting media? How can we make it more exciting? I want to make it more appealing to the masses. But. I am told that the people listen to only film songs. They have no time for anything serious.’
‘No Sir,’ Jet Lee hastened to assure him. ‘We have made listening to the radio compulsory, at least once a month.’ ‘That is good. Let us improve the frequency. Let us wean people away from the world of make believe and promote the culture and traditions that we are proud of.’
‘Yes – we must do that. The masses are addicted to alien cultures and values. That must change.’
Suddenly the phone rang. Moody picked up the receiver and the muscles on his face softened.
‘Have you heard the news?’ he asked Jet Lee.
‘Which news?’
‘Cricket is good for health and wealth.’
‘Health I understand but, how about wealth?’
‘Don’t you know - all our cricketers are crorepatis.’
‘I know,’ Jet Lee sighed. ‘It’s a wonderful diversion.' Then murmured under his breath - 'if I knew earlier, I could have gone in for cricket.'
‘Then arrange some more matches – if necessary, have a new format.’
‘But the IPL season has yet to take off.’
‘Forget IPL - let us explore new areas. Let us contact the Eskimos – they can come up with a new look team.’ ‘And, pitch them against teams from the deserts. That will make beautiful contrasts.’
‘And, give exclusive rights to the national media for telecast and broadcast. That will create a new platform for us to spread our messages.’ (to be continued …)

(Image courtesy wikimediacommons.org)


Some more interesting links -

Give It Up – embrace a DOG’s life (satire)

Fight fire with fire - have ‘Award Return Festivals’

Operation unearthing Black Money (satire)


Fossils and eggshells of baby dinosaurs found in Gobi Desert

Parama Island flyover adds to traffic jams in Kolkata – made one-way

Future of street foods in Delhi bleak - Delhi bans cooking on roads


Arnold Schwarzenegger could play in Rajinikanth-starrer 'Enthiran 2'

Emma Roberts and her horror-comedy series "Scream Queens"

India is one of 81 countries vying for Best Foreign Film in the 88th Academy Awards


Despite US airstrikes, ISIS still makes £300-million a year from oil

Syrian gang caught trying to smuggle 20-tonnes of cannabis worth £150million into Europe

US airdrops 50-tons of ammunition for M-16s and AK-47 to Syrian fighters

Wednesday, November 4, 2015

Moody wants ODIs in Silicon Valley (satire)


Moody wanted to create a diversion because his people continued to land him and his Bosses in unpleasant situations. People kept pointing fingers at him and criticize him for his inability to keep his flock in check.
Therefore, he called Jet Lee to discuss diversionary tactics.
‘Jet Lee,’ he began. ‘You love cricket, don’t you?’
‘Well,’ Jet Lee wiped the sweat from his bald head. ‘I do.’
‘Your idols are the fast bowlers Brett Lee and Sir Richard Hadlee – right?’
‘Yes. They bowl wonderful bouncers.’
‘I want ODIs to be taken to Silicon Valley.’
Jet Lee gulped. The Americans had their own version of cricket known as Baseball and making ODIs popular in Silicon Valley could make him lose whatever few strands of hair he still sported.
‘That would be a good idea but, why do you want this?’
‘Cricket is a wonderful means to keep the attention of people diverted. They must be given a new toy to play with. I am tired of listening to leaders who say something today and clarify next day that they were misquoted.’ ‘Then ODI is certainly an antidote,’ Jet Lee rubbed his hands in glee.
‘Let us set the ball rolling. I am sure Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, Sundar Pichai, Steve Jobs and their likes would love to own ODI cricket teams.’
‘Steve Jobs is dead.’
‘But, not his Apple,’ Moody displayed his depth of general knowledge.
‘They will need brand ambassadors.’
‘That should not be a problem. There are many reputable cricketers who have retired and are twiddling their thumbs and are busy working as models to advertise fancy products. I am sure they would love to get back into the game.’
‘Fine – and, who do we rope in as the main sponsor?’
‘There would be no dearth of willing Corporates. Just leak the news to the media and wait for reactions. I am sure it will serve its purpose.’
‘I think I will drop the hint to one of those over enthusiastic reporters like Bakra Madam.’
‘Yes, she would be OK,’ Moody appeared to be relieved. (to be continued …)

(Image courtesy wikimediacommons.org)


Some more interesting links -

Give It Up – embrace a DOG’s life (satire)

Fight fire with fire - have ‘Award Return Festivals’

Operation unearthing Black Money (satire)


Fossils and eggshells of baby dinosaurs found in Gobi Desert

Parama Island flyover adds to traffic jams in Kolkata – made one-way

Future of street foods in Delhi bleak - Delhi bans cooking on roads


Arnold Schwarzenegger could play in Rajinikanth-starrer 'Enthiran 2'

Emma Roberts and her horror-comedy series "Scream Queens"

India is one of 81 countries vying for Best Foreign Film in the 88th Academy Awards


Despite US airstrikes, ISIS still makes £300-million a year from oil

Syrian gang caught trying to smuggle 20-tonnes of cannabis worth £150million into Europe

US airdrops 50-tons of ammunition for M-16s and AK-47 to Syrian fighters

Tuesday, November 3, 2015

Moody in the mute mood (satire)


Normally vocal Moody, does, at times withdraw into a shell and goes into the mute mood – especially when subjects with B (beef), C (corruption) or D (dalits and dogs) become the talking points of the day. In days gone by, when he was at the other side of the fence, he used to criticize and taunt elderly leaders when they went into the mute mode.
Moody has now realized that there are moments in the life of leaders when the proverb silence is golden is most appropriate.
If he had some close friends, they would have told him – a penny for your thoughts. But, again, they might not because the very word penny is foreign. Penny is of British origin like Miss Moneypenny, the secretary in the office of M who was the boss of James Bond.
Anyway, he had to get the story of the dalit boys and the dog. He just could not fathom the relationship and, hence, was disturbed. So, he summoned Vicky Singh – the man knew plenty about warfare and Moody wanted the lowdown on the dalit killings.
How did the dalit boys get burnt? Was it in some battlefield? Was it due to some dog that came in the line of fire? ‘Vicky,’ he asked. ‘Dalit means oppressed. Right?’
‘Yes,’ Vicky settled in the chair opposite Moody.
‘How did the boys catch fire? Was it due to firecrackers?’
‘I have no idea. Some say they committed suicide.’
‘Strange. I always knew that farmers committed suicides. Or – kids who fail in their exams. Or – girls who are let down by their boyfriends. Why then did the dalit boys commit suicide?’
Vicky shrugged his shoulders.
‘How did the dogs come into the picture?’ Moody now asked.
‘There we no dogs as such,’ Vicky said.
‘But I heard you had mentioned dogs.’
‘That was just to make a comparison. Tell me, if a dog goes out of control, people stone it to death. How can any government be responsible for that?’
‘Any idea why the boys caught fire?’
‘If you ask me - they must have been involved in some dangerous activity and paid the price. Probably making firecrackers – you know Divali is round the corner.’
Moody was listening in rapt admiration. He was lucky to have assistants like Vicky – they had an answer to every question, no matter how awkward. (to be continued …)

(Image courtesy wikimediacommons.org)


Some more interesting links -

Give It Up – embrace a DOG’s life (satire)

Fight fire with fire - have ‘Award Return Festivals’

Operation unearthing Black Money (satire)


Fossils and eggshells of baby dinosaurs found in Gobi Desert

Parama Island flyover adds to traffic jams in Kolkata – made one-way

Future of street foods in Delhi bleak - Delhi bans cooking on roads


Arnold Schwarzenegger could play in Rajinikanth-starrer 'Enthiran 2'

Emma Roberts and her horror-comedy series "Scream Queens"

India is one of 81 countries vying for Best Foreign Film in the 88th Academy Awards


Despite US airstrikes, ISIS still makes £300-million a year from oil

Syrian gang caught trying to smuggle 20-tonnes of cannabis worth £150million into Europe

US airdrops 50-tons of ammunition for M-16s and AK-47 to Syrian fighters

Monday, November 2, 2015

Fight fire with fire - have ‘Award Return Festivals’ (satire)


It was a really high level meeting – the topic was ‘how to eliminate intolerance’ and the venue was the penthouse of a skyscraper – hence, a high level meeting.
Moody was surrounded by his band of trusted men and women and each of them was serious because the subject was intolerance and, it was hogging the limelight. It had become a topic of discussion, and debate at every forum and, with people either returning their awards, or threatening to do so, Moody had his hands full.
‘Can anybody explain what exactly intolerance is?’ he asked.
‘If you ask me,’ Baba Someday spoke up – ‘it is the state of mind when you are not able to adjust to changes in situations’.
‘Please be more precise,’ Moody looked at Baba.
‘I can tolerate extreme changes in temperatures. Whether it is sweltering heat or freezing cold, I am fine with my dress code. Thanks to yoga, my tolerance level is high.’
‘I see,’ Moody was thoughtful. ‘That is tolerance and dress. That is why some people love to go about wearing next to nothing on the beaches while others pile up clothes like the Eskimos.’
‘Yes,’ Baba grinned.
‘But - what about intolerance in society?’ Moody asked.
‘That also is a state of the mind. Some people do not like anything to be thrust upon them. They have fixed notions of life and hate to change.’
‘May I intervene?’ Ranee asked. She knew all about education and how to change mindsets.
‘Go on,’ Moody looked at her. ‘This is a mind-blowing session.’
‘Actually such sessions are called brainstorming sessions,’ Ranee smiled.
‘Both are same, aren’t they? They involve the mind and the brain.’
Ranee did not comment. ‘To remove intolerance, we must bring everyone to a common platform,’ she said. ‘Tune them to the same frequency.’
‘How can we do that?’
‘Fight fire with fire. When people want to return awards, let us organize ‘Award Return Festivals’. Let us do it on a large scale, invite the foreign media. Let us not be cowed down by intolerance but take the bull by the horns and face the challenge bravely.’
Moody was a much relieved man as were his assistants. Ranee was a real gem, she had come up with a wonderful solution. (to be continued …)

(Image courtesy wikimediacommons.org)


Some more interesting links -

Give It Up – embrace a DOG’s life (satire)

Fight fire with fire - have ‘Award Return Festivals’

Operation unearthing Black Money (satire)


Fossils and eggshells of baby dinosaurs found in Gobi Desert

Parama Island flyover adds to traffic jams in Kolkata – made one-way

Future of street foods in Delhi bleak - Delhi bans cooking on roads


Arnold Schwarzenegger could play in Rajinikanth-starrer 'Enthiran 2'

Emma Roberts and her horror-comedy series "Scream Queens"

India is one of 81 countries vying for Best Foreign Film in the 88th Academy Awards


Despite US airstrikes, ISIS still makes £300-million a year from oil

Syrian gang caught trying to smuggle 20-tonnes of cannabis worth £150million into Europe

US airdrops 50-tons of ammunition for M-16s and AK-47 to Syrian fighters

Sunday, November 1, 2015

Operation unearthing Black Money (satire)


Black Money had been an obsession with Moody long before he came to the hot seat. He had come from a humble background and, to him, black meant coal. He used it to light up the ovens to make tea. But, his trusted band of lieutenants and followers had coined wonderful phrases on black money which did pay dividends but not in the way he would have liked them to.
He wanted to unearth the huge amounts of that particular brand of money stashed away in foreign banks and distribute them to the common man – he had gone to the extent of promising that he would transfer it to individual bank accounts. And – the people were floored!
But, alas, reality was hard to swallow.
That is why he had called for a meeting with his trusted lieutenants Jet Lee, Sue Sharma, Hash Budden and Baba Someday. ‘Why have you not met the deadline?’ Moody was not in the best of tempers.
‘It’s a big mystery,’ Sue Sharma explained. ‘The foreign banks were most courteous, they rolled out the red carpets and have given us a tiny slip of paper with names of a few people.’
‘That was just the tip of the iceberg,’ Moody was not happy. ‘Why are they so cagey?’
‘I have no idea,’ Sue mumbled.
‘Well – get idea,’ Moody gave a sarcastic grin. ‘Why do they have hesitation to part with the information?’
‘Could be that the list is a huge one and contains names of people that would cause undue embarrassment,’ Jet Lee suggested.
‘Let us be the judge,’ Moody said. ‘If the people were influential and wielded tremendous power and came from different political formations, should we let the sleeping dogs lie?’
It was at this point that Baba Someday intervened.
He was a wise man determined to root out any and every thing that was bad for the masses. He wanted to have a world devoid of disease and, hence, many doctors were his sworn enemies. He preached yoga and had a huge setup where he had started setups to manufacture biscuits, noodles, honey, plus pure ghee etcetera.
‘Moody-ji,’ he said, ‘which ever country you have gone to, you have broached the subject, yes?’
Moody nodded.
‘You have sent Sue-ji and Jet Lee-ji also – yes?’
‘Yes,’ Moody again nodded.
‘That means you have exhausted all natural channels, right?’
‘Yes. Sort of.’
‘Then let us invoke the Gods, have a yagna, invite all the world leaders to the program. They will jump at the opportunity.’
‘But – how will that help bring back the black money?’
‘Well – in my honest opinion, unearthing black money is a subject where God only can help us. Let us, therefore, invoke the Gods.’ (to be continued …)

(Image courtesy wikimediacommons.org)


Some more interesting links -

The global broom campaign (satire)

Moody searching for a place where no leader has gone (Satire)

Moody, Jet Lee and missing pulses (Satire)


Fossils and eggshells of baby dinosaurs found in Gobi Desert

Parama Island flyover adds to traffic jams in Kolkata – made one-way

Future of street foods in Delhi bleak - Delhi bans cooking on roads


Arnold Schwarzenegger could play in Rajinikanth-starrer 'Enthiran 2'

Emma Roberts and her horror-comedy series "Scream Queens"

India is one of 81 countries vying for Best Foreign Film in the 88th Academy Awards


Despite US airstrikes, ISIS still makes £300-million a year from oil

Syrian gang caught trying to smuggle 20-tonnes of cannabis worth £150million into Europe

US airdrops 50-tons of ammunition for M-16s and AK-47 to Syrian fighters