Thoughts @ Amit Gupta » India Insight & Beyond

IPL match @ Ferozshah Kotla

Amit Gupta — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 20:05:32 +0000

IPL season 4 …manoranjan ka baap

(Bhagwaan jab deta hai chappar faad kar deta hai)

Date : April 20, 2011

2:00 PM : Thinking of Cycle Agarbatti ?? Kya Bhagwaan hai

2:30 PM : @amitguptaz digging deep into excel sheets @indiatimes office

4:30 PM : @amitguptaz cheering for Delhi Daedevils from Super Hospitality Hill A South east stand of Ferozshah Kotla Stadium with 3 team members.

These complimentary passes for the match were sponsored by my office Times Internet Limited. I was among the lucky one along with Hemant , Naveen and Gagan to got these passes from our Business Head Archana Vohra . Thanks a ton. Have a look at the lovely envelop and the ticket to match below.

Yes you read it right, each ticket was worth Rs 20,000 . This gives access to east hill section of the stadium ; which is most premium location and also have a hospitality section (will come to it later).

3:15 PM : Full speed ahead to Feroz Shah Kotla ground. I must have broken my own record of highway driving of 80KMPH ;p

4:00 PM : Got parking some 2 Km from stadium and we all rushed towards the stadium. Even took an Auto for a Kilometer of ride

4:30 PM : See below where were sitting, standing, roaming , dancing and cheering for the Devils

It was my first experience to watch match at the stadium and it can’t be bigger and better than this. It took us all some time for this feeling to sink (Some drinks obviously helped all of us).

The hospitality area was another experience. Watching the live match from air conditioned zone with refreshment and drinks on the house, took the experience to another level all together.

Back to cheering after the break. We were all loaded with merchandise of Delhi daredevils. And in true delhiwalla style we carried it all back with us. Anyone who want a piece raise your hand.

BTW the fans were spraying water to keep all enthusiastic fans like us. And few like me also took shelter in the hospitality zone to enjoy the match from cool zone.

And then like all good things the match also come to an end. We were all happy (may not be reflected in pic below ; ya I am fan of the loosing side) and super charged even after the match.

So match ho gaya after match abhi baaki hai. What next …

The moment we stepped out everyone from Star News to P7 wanted a byte from us about the match. Well literally Naveen and Gagan were in their best avataar as the sports analyst. Talking from team composition to batting technique of Virender Sehwag.

What a day !!!

Incomplete map of India on google

Amit Gupta — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 15:23:16 +0000

Totally condemn the way Google repeatedly treat the map of India. J & K is and will remain integral part of India.

And , not showing it part of any other country also is not solution. Correct your maps Google.

Pan Card for Tisya

Amit Gupta — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 16:08:02 +0000

Tisya got her Pan Card issued on at the age of Four Month and Nine Days (09 June 210).

By far this has has been the most wonderful experience of mine dealing with any government agency or should I say the only agency which offered a truly world class service experience.

I applied pan card for my four month old daughter (Tisya Singhal) online through NSDL. The form seems to be very simple and self explanatory. As my daughter is minor Pan was applied on her behalf by representative (her mother)

The fee for the pan card is Rs 94 . You have the option to pay through Credit or Debit Card / DD /Cheque. The best mode of payment is Credit/Debit card as this beside expediting the process also give online status of your application using a 12 digit acknowledgement number issued on successful transaction.

A printout of acknowledgement need to be send to NSDL Pune with photograph and address proof within 30 days.

National Securities Depository Limited
3rd Floor, Sapphire Chambers
Near Baner Telephone Exchange
Baner, Pune – 411 045.

In case of any queries you can also call up NSDL call center at Pune (020 – 2721 8080) . I called them up twice , once while filling application and again checking the status of the application. The staff was extremely polite and helpful on both the occasions.

I received a SMS from NSDL on receipt of the application and again on confirmation of issue of the pan Card (whole process took less than 15 days) . Today the update on NSDL site shows that the PAN has been dispatched to our mailing address through overnite courier.

A quick check on ovenite courier website says the courier has reached Delhi on 14th July from Mumbai. So hopefully We’ll get the Pan Card for Tisya tomorrow.

Next on agenda is to get a Passport for Tisya and that thought sends a shiver down my spine. To know why read my experience in getting my passport reissued

Update (July 13, 2011) : I applied for passport for my minor daughter under Tatkal and got it within 4 working days.

Birth certificate for minor in Gurgaon

Amit Gupta — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 17:55:55 +0000

The Cradle provided a birth certificate for my daughter. Little did I realized that it only has a emotional and ornamental value and no legal validity. So we got it framed it nicely (Thanks to Tushina) and it occupies a place of pride in our bedroom.

I was told that as a procedure hospital has already send the notification to the municipal authorities about child birth. The birth certificate can be collected after 21 days from the MCD office, Gurgaon situated opposite civil hospital Gurgaon (See Map Below).

View Larger Map

I went there after 2 months to collect the certificate. I was told to submit an application again on plain paper (hospital has already send in the notification) and collect the certificate 21 days post that. The application has a simple format capturing Name of child , parents, date and place of birth, address and number of copies of certificate required. Not so simple…

The application format was pasted outside the clerk window in both English and Hindi, but he would accept the application only filled in Hindi and that too without child’s name. Once a certificate without name is issued then a affidavit needs to be submitted stating that child name will not be changed in future to get a birth certificate with child’s name. I tried to convince him that we had already spend two months in finalizing the daughter name as Tisya and have no intention to change it.

I got the birth certificate without child’s name and wrong address. On inquiring I was told the birth certificate will carry details as shared by hospital and can’t be changed (I thanked heaven they have only put in wrong address and not wrong parents name).

On my next visit I submitted the affidavit for the child’s name, Birth certificate (without name) and the same stupid application (remember they would only print details as shared by hospital) and fee of Rs 17 (+Rs 52 for additional 4 copies). I was asked to come again in 7-8 days to check the spelling on certificate before printing. They issued the certificate this time with name but in Hindi. Every action of theirs is covered under one blanket statement ‘yehi process hai’.

Now as a final step, I have again submitted the application (same futile details) and attached a copy of certificate (hindi) and fee of Rs 17 (+Rs 52 for additional 4 copies) for a new certificate. I have to visit the municipal office again to ensure the name is punched in right before the printing of the certificate.

Traffic light for footover bridge in gurgaon !

Amit Gupta — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 10:46:57 +0000

This can happen only here in India. We know how to ulitize all the resources to fullest and look forward to accept new challenges. Look at the images below I clicked of foot over bridge meant for pedestrian in millenium city, gurgaon.

No hurry at all – Guy seems to be attending a call from home

Wow ! such a good negotiater of sharp turns

Pedestrian should be given adverse travel advisory for crossing expressway by footover bridge build in gurgaon. Or considering the amount of motor vehicles goverment should put up traffic lights up there. Or better lets have a another overbridge on the existing one

Mumbai Marathon 2009

Amit Gupta — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 10:32:46 +0000

Mumbai will run again. Run again to show solidarity, unity, a cause and spirit of life. Standard Chartered Mumbai Marathon the biggest international marathon in Asia will kick off tomorrow.

This event first held in 2004 has outgrown itself from just being a annual gala sporting event. The event now showcases the spirit of people of Mumbai and India and large. Along with top international athlete who competes for prize and pride, there are whole lots of Indians who run for cause. There will be corporate India running as a team to raise funds for charity as designated by them.

This event is the biggest international event happening after the unfortunate terror attach on Mumbai. And now Mumbai will run to display the strength we have as the country and prove that no one can bring us down.

Sitting miles away physically, my heart goes with all who are running for the cause. Keep running…

Reissue of Indian Passport

Amit Gupta — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 11:25:26 +0000

I filled the application form online from official website and it generated a downloadable format for me to get the photographs done etc. And the best part , I got a appointment online for submission of the form. Somehow I manage to get all my documents in palce and time (Most difficult being proof of residence.

So a journey of five month has come to an end. I have managed to lay hand on my reissued passport after much delay and followup. For the starter an Indian passport has to be be reissued after every 10 years. My passport was about to expire (actually there were still 9 months to go) so I thought to get the same reissued in time. I was pleasantly surprised to find that system has evolved much since the day I have first applied for the same, year 1999.

ALWAYS REMEMBER :

a) Telephone Bill means only Government line (MTNL or BSNL) no Airtel, Tata Indicom or Mobile bills

b) Bank Statement : Only government banks (No Citibank, ICICI though it is second largest bank in India, No HDFC it may be the largest housing finance banking entity of the country)

AND so on… Anyways, Fortunately I have one sarkari bank account in Bank of Baroda which actually become the passport to my passport application. So two days of effort to collect documents and 1000 RS down I managed to submit my application. They cancelled my current passport and accepted the application for reissue. So now I was practically without a passport (with some 9 months still to spare for expiry ).

This was the beginning of long journey, which was suppose to get over in just 45 days.

The wait begins for the police verification as the passport status site show the status “Awaiting Police verification” from the very next day. After numerous round to ACP office and request for early verification, the same happened some after 60 days.

Now after 90 days I found the new status on the site “Police verification clear, Application under process”. Now starts another round of wait for the processing of passport.

Then the round of mails and personal visit to RPO ensure that I got my passport after 5 months. I feel like being on cloud nine without actually flying

Update ( Feb 27, 2009 ) Months after I got my passport , I got call for a police verification again. As per them My verification is still pending. this send chill through my spine. But fortunately It was some error and I was saved from any hassle.

Update (July 13, 2011) : I applied for passport for my minor daughter under Tatkal and got it within 4 working days.

Vote for better India

Amit Gupta — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 08:35:49 +0000

Did you know that there is a system in our constitution, as per the 1969 act, in section ” 49-O” that a person can go to the polling booth, confirm his identity, get his finger marked and convey the presiding election officer that he doesn’t want to vote anyone!

Yes such a feature is available, but obviously these leaders have never disclosed it.

This is called “49-O”.

Why should you go and say ” I VOTE NOBODY”… because, in a ward, if a candidate wins, say by 123 votes, and that particular ward has received “49-O” votes more than 123, then that polling will be cancelled and will have to be re-polled. Not only that, but the candidature of the contestants will be removed and they cannot contest the re-polling, since people had already expressed their decision on them.
This would bring fear into parties and hence look for genuine candidates for their parties for election. This would change the way; of our whole political system…. it is seemingly surprising why the election commission has not revealed such a feature to the public….

Please spread this news to as many as you know…

Seems to be a wonderful weapon against corrupt parties in India … show your power, expressing your desire not to vote for anybody, is even more powerful than voting… so don’t miss your chance. So either vote, or vote not to vote (vote 49-O) and pass this info on…

Use your voting right for a better INDIA.

Chanda Mama here we come

Amit Gupta — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 10:29:02 +0000

India launches its Chandrayan 1 today from Sriharikota. This marks the entry into new era of space exploration by India. India will enter the league of naions who have succesfully landed on the Moon. Though Man-less mission Chandrayaan will fuel the space program of India.

Incomplete map of India on google

Good Bye Sam

Amit Gupta — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 05:36:06 +0000

Good Bye Bahadur Sam

(April 03, 1914 – June 27, 2008)

IPL – Kab Aayega Baap !!!

Amit Gupta — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 17:59:31 +0000

Kab aayega ranjan aur mano ka baap! There is an extensive and long search for ranjan and mano for their baap. After a long wait of 8 years and endless taunting of people their mother attempts suicide. Suddenly we discovered who is “mano-ranjan ka baap”

Hilarious and simply brilliant is how I would describe latest commercial of DLF – Indian Premier League. Agency has successfully married the two biggest religion of nation Cricket and Bollywood in this one script. The advertisement not only has brilliant story line but also executed to the perfection.

The tempo was build over a period of time and viewers’ curiosity was raised to a level that it becomes a talking point among them. Everyone wanted to know “Kaun hai bachcho ka baap”.

Hope the IPL itself also turns out to be equally exciting.

Talent Search 2.0

Amit Gupta — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 07:00:03 +0000

Every child has heard this umpteen times. Every time there is a guest parents insist child to recite a poem or sing a song. A latest song hummed by the child makes parents proud of their child’s talent. Child gets rewarded through lots of praises. Now the stage has grown and children perform in front of live and TV audience. Various talent hunt shows has make this bigger than ever and the rewards has grown too. Few days back , one such show held a finale at where contestants performed and whole nation seemed to vote for them. The winner takes 20 laks of cash, a brand new car. Now that’s something really big for a teenager. Infact the youngest winner who takes 10 laks as reward was not even in his teens. Its amazing to see the talent getting rewarded in style.

Reliance : Thy Name Trust

Amit Gupta — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 17:58:33 +0000

Reliance by virtue of its name generate confidence. And Ambani’s has done unthinkable to keep the flag flying high for these years. I may not understand the depth of share market but this is my take on reliance as an consumer.

People has shown immense faith in the Reliance Power IPO and oversubscribed it as expected. The issue bombed on the day of listing and thousands have burned thier fingures. And then came the unexpected announcement of Bonus shares. And now talks of buy back of shares.

Hatoff to Mr Anil Ambani . This is a great gesture of corporate giant to show support to millions who have trusted them over years and keep thie confidence alive in BRAND RELIANCE.

Cricket Moolah Unlimited

Amit Gupta — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 17:53:53 +0000

Crick·et
noun

1. Only sport in the dictionary of Indians

2. Money

Crick’et.er
noun

1. Sportsperson

2. Model

3. Endorsements

BCCI
noun

1. Mint

2. Money spinners

3. Politics

Image Credit : ballsports.com

Zero Degree in Delhi Really !!!

Amit Gupta — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 18:17:16 +0000

Bakar Bakar on Channels about Zero degree temprature (Forecasted for Today) in Delhi has hogged the limelight on prime time slots for last few days.

News channels and Newspaper has debated it out more than they do the annual budget or general election. It become the talking point in offices. Few of my friends from across seven seas even me asked what we are going do to battle the freezing cold.

Now that the day today is coming to an end and there is no sign of Zero in Delhi. It seems that there is some time for homecomimg for Zero . As it is we Indians who gave birth to ZERO and send him around the world

Image Credit : Claudecf

Crown Prince in waiting…

Amit Gupta — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:21:51 +0000

Prince Charles of Great Britain has become the longest waiting Prince in queue to the thrown. And what a wait.. more than 59 years. Long live the queen.

But then it reminds of difference between Purab and Paschim. Where else but in so called under developing nations like India and Pakistan one would sacrifice the power and chair for the children.

Not to glorify anyone but earlier Ms. Gandhi and now Mr. Zardari has taken chosen to pave way for their children (People may choose to call this political compulsions).

I think sacrifice will bring you more glory and power than the artificial titles. Stepping down and nurturing future will surely make you the king of the hearts.

Image Credit : Londononline

Gentleman was it “Monkey” or “Maa ki”

Amit Gupta — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 16:47:24 +0000

Harbhajan’s controversial spat with Symond has come to an end. The outcome though was bit predictable with BCCI literally arm-twisted the cricketing giant with a threat to abandon the tour. So the charges against our turbunator were mellowed. Now, we will have Harbhajan and Symond once again battling it out at field in the upcoming one dayers.

Whatever it may be but cricket is no longer seems to be a Gentleman’s game for sure.

Good Bye Sam

60th Death Anniversary of Mahatma

Amit Gupta — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 16:14:32 +0000

“I cannot teach you violence, as I do not myself believe in it. I can only teach you not to bow your heads before any one even at the cost of your life.” - Mahatma Gandhi

I salute the Father of the Nation on his 60th death Anniversary.

Organ Trade in Gurgaon, India

Amit Gupta — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 17:14:29 +0000

Every print and news media in India was clogged with news of a organ trade unearthed in millennium city of Gurgaon. This racket, which was operational in major part of country, was run by group of surgeons for last 6-7 years.

They have state of the art medical setup to operate and transplant organs of needy to their rich and effluent clients in India and overseas. They were minting money by exploiting the poor and needy by luring them with money or false job promises.

But what gives them this opportunity is our own law of land, which does not permit organ transplant from anyone beyond one’s family. The essence of the law was to prevent commercialization of organ transplant. But it has paved way for the flourishing organ trade where huge monies are exchanged and the donors end up exploited at the hands of these so called doctors.

In my view, all of those involved in such heinous crime should be shown no mercy by the law and an example should be set for others.Further, regulatory authorities should spread awareness about organ donations (Like the campaign for eye donation) to promote donations after death. And make some provision in the law to allow a non relative to donate the organ for a adequate compensation.

Image Credit : BBC