Steve Jobs, an Icon of Cupertino, bids adieu!

Today, everyone is familiar with three Apples that forever changed the way we live - Adam's Apple, Sir Isaac Newton's Apple that fell on his head and the contemporary Apple that revolutionized the way we communicate and keep ourselves entertained. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I am talking about Steve Jobs inspired Apple Corps.

He conquered his illustrious adversaries in his trademark style coupled with his innovative designing and marketing masterstrokes. But he couldn't triumph over the life threatening pancreatic cancer which finally claimed his life. Though it was a 8 year long battle with the deadly disease which only Steve Jobs could have sustained with his never give up spirit!

The greatest contribution made my Steve Jobs which has immortalized his legacy and endeared him to millions of his ecstatic fans around the globe was his masterstroke of innovation with I-pod. It metamorphosed the way we listened to music and it brought music aficionados, music artists and music labels closer than ever before! His second masterstroke came with the introduction of I-tunes which enabled I-pod users to download their favourite tracks by paying a certain amount.

To me, Steve Jobs' genius lies in his simplistic towards innovation and design which is evident from his meticulous attention to detail. He orchestrated the show at Apple by remaining its face until his sad demise in his inimitable style. Apart from his 7 odd years that he spent in the wilderness away from his iconic company due to his strenuous relations with his board of directors was worth every second of it. It gave him the chance to introspect as he went soul searching to India and came back enlightened and struck back at his detractors with vengeance. The rest as they is history.

From now on, Apple Corps will be always be synonymous with Steve Jobs. He has left a legacy for not just his successor Tim Cook. His task is almost insurmountable trying to fill the enormous shoes of the maverick, Steve Jobs.

An obituary is not enough for this renaissance man of the tech world. His life is one of the most glorious chapters in the history of innovative entrepreneurship. Long live the memories of Steve Jobs! Mr. Steve, with your entry into the heaven, it will be a rocking place with angels grooving to the tune emanating from one of your masterstrokes, I-pod. You will be truly missed on earth for your zest for innovation and simplicity.

I wish to conclude with his popular anecdote, 'Stay foolish. Stay hungry.'

For those who want to have a good time at home!

Today, life has become fast and furious. In a thriving cosmopolitan city like Mumbai, you are reduced to mere slaves with a battered soul. It takes a toll on your overall wellbeing. But you are utterly helpless as this frantic life earns you livelihood. Most of us are used to this hectic lifestyle. But there comes a time when your mind says enough is enough!

When you reach that point of mental exhaustion, your mind vehemently searches for an escape route. That's where activities better known as 'Hobbies' comes to your rescue. They can be anything - be it - reading, writing, gardening, listening to music or watching a movie.

Today, let's focus on watching a movie as an effective way to rejuvenate your senses. Movie watching is an experience that transcends you to a different world where your thoughts run wilder and you gradually escape into the world of imagination. But there is something you need to watch out for when choosing a movie. Remember that you are looking to have a good time. So it is essential to choose a movie that will elevate your mood.

You should ideally choose a movie that would help you relax and lets you forget your present. Of course, it depends on your taste in movies. If you have an eclectic taste in movies, you will pick up just the right movie. There are different genres to choose from - be it - horror, action, comedy, sci-fi, animation, drama, rom-com and thriller to name a select few.

Watching a movie is an amazing experience as it helps you forget the daily woes in your mundane life by offering you a refreshing break. There's more to a movie than just its most sought after entertainment quotient. It makes an audio-visual impact on you. And when you are able to relate to a particular movie, you get completely engrossed.

And you don't have to be a movie connoisseur to enjoy this simplistic pleasure of modern life. All you need to do is to just grab a good movie, a bowl of popcorn and make yourself comfortable on a couch to add to your movie experience. And if you have your friends or your partner for company, then it becomes a fun filled experience to cherish for a long time.

I have had my shares of many memorable experiences till date. And I am sure even you will treasure the experience of watching a good movie either alone or in the company of your loved ones. It is easily one of the cheapest way to combat stress that exists in your life.

There's much more you can do besides this. For more on that, Keep visiting this space for more.

India's Turbanator scales 400 Wickets peak against West Indies

First and foremost, my heartiest congratulations to the Turbanator of Indian cricket, Harbhajan Singh, on his phenomenal achievement of getting 400 test scalps.

When he made his debut in 1998 series against the rampaging Australian side led from the front by their charismatic captain, Steven Waugh. Any youngster in his shoes would have definitely felt the butterflies in the stomach facing the army of intimidating Aussie batsmen like Matthew Hayden, Adam Gilchrist, Ricky Ponting, Justin Langer,Steven Waugh, Mark Waugh and Darren Lehmann. But not the fiesty sardar from Jalandhar.

It wasn't the series where he asserted his dominance and forged a formidable reputation as one of the best off spinners in the game. But his talent was there for everyone to see. In that ODI series, he dismissed Ricky Ponting with his mysterious 'Doosra' leaving his great batting adversary flummoxed.

This series was touted as the ultimate battle between two champions of the game, Sachin R. Tendulkar v/s Shane Warne. While Sachin took Shane Warne apart, Harbhajan Singh gave the glimpse of his magical ability. That series is now an integral part of cricketing folklore. After that series, Shane Warne went on to admit that he had nightmares of Sachin stepping out of the crease and hitting him out of the park much to his chagrin altough jokingly.

Subsequently, Bhajji as he is nicknamed by his team mates was dropped on disciplinary grounds. His trademark fiesty quality came to the fore in the One Day series when he dismissed Ricky Ponting and everything that followed is now history.

After spending couple of years in wilderness or shall I say finetuning his skills with former ace Indian tweaker, Erapalli Prasanna. When Australia visited India again in the summer of 2001 with even intimidating reputation as the world beaters since the legendary West Indies team led by Clive Lloyds. They were in breathtaking form playing brilliantly and consistently the world over.

In the three match test series, Australians took the lead as expected. What followed is the most memorable fight back in the history of Indian and world cricket. India was in a precarious position having made to follow on. This test match turned the careers of two stalwarts, Harbhajan Singh and VVS Laxman. The latter played the best test innings of his career in a record test partnership with Rahul Dravid. His majestic 281 at packed Eden Gardens was a delight to watch and was applauded for his sheer artistry even by the usually unflappable Aussies and not to mention the rapturous fans across the great Eden.

When India declared their innings after two superb tons by VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid, they were in a commanding position for the first time in the series. This is the same test match which established the legacies of VVS Laxman, Rahul Dravid and of course, Harbhajan Singh.

Australians started their innings in a typical whirlwind style courtesy of Matthew Hayden. But Sourav Ganguly, the Indian skipper, brought the spinning duo of the unflappable Anil Kumble and the feisty Harbhajan Singh. Almost immediately, he hit his straps and extracting extra bounce from the Eden Garden's wicket.

Once he got his first wicket, he ran through the side and single handedly won the test match to level the series. Once the series got over, India defeated their powerful adversary, Australia by taking the series 2-1.

And Harbhajan Singh's legacy began as he went on bag 32 wickets in 3 test match series. That test series was the vindication of the character that perfectly blended with raw talent of Harbhajan Singh and the Indian team.

Today as we speak, Harbhajan Singh is one of the world's best spinners with 402 test wickets and some 350 ODI wickets to boot.

At this point of time, as I write this, India is on the cusp of a series victory in the Carribean Islands against the once mighty West Indies. With much talked about the series against an in-form English side just around the corner, this fiesty sardar will be ready to spin his magic to silence his critics and the loud mouth English team in their own back yard.

Obviously, when the stalwarts in the form of Sachin R. Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Gautam Gambhir, Zaheer Khan make their much awaited return to Team India. Without an iota of doubt, it's going to be a thrilling series where action will keep you hooked.

Before I leave, my heartiest congratulations to India's ace spinner, Harbhajan Singh on his incredible achievement of reaching the landmark of 402 test wickets. May he spin his magic around the English batsmen and help India defeat the cocky England in their own den.

For more updates on the game which has fascinated India for decades, do visit again.

Battle Royale between two icons Sachin v/s Warne for one last time!

As Rajasthan Royals take on Mumbai Indians on the latter's home turf at Wankhede in Mumbai in the fourth edition of IPL for one last time, it's going to be battle between two of the greatest icons of this gentleman's game. Unlike David v/s Goliath contest, this one is going to be the Goliath v/s Goliath encounter.

Sachin R. Tendulkar is a run machine with a soul. While Shane Warne is a hunter eager to spring a surprise on every opposing batsmen. Both of them commands respect from everyone.

Like so many engrossing battles in the past, it promises to be an equally fascinating one even though Shane Warne has retired from International cricket. While Sachin is going stronger than ever before. But knowing these class acts, this game will be just another game where winner takes all.

Be it the qualification for play-offs for Sachin Tendulkar led Mumbai Indians or for the pride of Rajasthan Royals who would love to give their maverick retiring skipper, Shane Warne a fitting farewell.

As far as IPL - 4 is concerned, Rajasthan Royals are out of it. While Mumbai Indians are knocking on the door of play-offs with their one foot inside it. Keeping this aside, this match is geared up for another classic Warne v/s Tendulkar saga.

Apart from media hype, both these fiercely competent, battle hardened champions would like to gain an upper hand on each other for one last time in a competent game. They will try every trick in their arsenal to outwit each other as captains for their respective teams.

More than their captaincy, this is tipped to be the grand battle between Sachin Tendulkar, the world's greatest batsman against Shane Warne, the world's greatest leg spinner. Knowing the wily Warne, he will try to outsmart Sachin in his own den at Mumbai. Both of them are proven match winners with enviable records to back their claims.

Being an ardent Sachin Tendulkar fan, I am uber confident that Sachin will try to assert his dominance on the spin wizard. Apart from Sachin R. Tendulkar and Brian Lara to some extent, no other batsmen in the history of this glorious game have got the better of bamboozling guile and wily craftiness of Shane Warne.

Ultimately, it's a team game that will be fought between two worthy adversaries. With one team having nothing to lose, while other team would like to seal their spot for play-offs in this game itself. Mumbai Indians have suffered two consecutive defeats in their last two games, they will try everything to reverse this downslide. They also need not have to look far for inspiration than their skipper.

Even T-20 is a team game. But adding little spicy contest within a contest would take this game to the next level altogether. Besides, it's apparent that Mumbai Indians are in this competition to win it and not just settle as one of the best teams in the this edition.

Sachin Tendulkar would be much more motivated as Shane Warne has already led his team to the inaugural Championship triumph. It's difficult to choose between two geniuses. But this time I'd love to see Sachin R. Tendulkar add the glittering IPL trophy to his already crowded cabinet replete with awards.

After all, Sachin R. Tendulkar is the god's chosen one. Just as on 2nd April, 2011, Sachin realized his long standing dream of winning the elusive World Cup for the second time. I am sure that he wouldn't leave any stone unturned to win this fourth IPL edition. Even god would admire his for what creation he has done on his karmabhoomi leaving his peers and more than a billion fans in awe of his indomitable and inimitable genius.

I'd like to sign off with a popular hindi song, 'Jara Bachke Jara Hatke, Yeh hai Mumbai Meri Jaan".

Will U.S. continue its battle against terrorism after nailing Osama Bin Laden?

U.S. has finally taken out the world's most wanted terrorist, Osama Bin Laden, in his mansion near Abbottabad in Pakistan! This has exposed Pakistan's double game of demanding economic aid from U.S. and on the other hand, they are providing safe havens to terrorists. It looks like they are finally check mate.

U.S. Intelligence agency, C.I.A., has been credited with their efficient operation that killed the dreaded terrorist. U.S. seals has successfully added their most glittering achievement after eliminating Osama who were on the U.S's hitlist for over a decade.

Will this encounter be an eye opener for the U.S.? Only time will tell. Although killing the plotter of that shocking 9/11 will act as a balm for U.S. government and for those who lost their family in the worst terrorist attack recorded in human history. Will it make them even more resolute to go for all terror outfits responsible creating havoc in kashmir and across the globe?

U.S. appears to be miffed with Pakistan for their blunt refusal on the whereabouts of Osama Bin Laden. This time, U.S. intelligence, C.S.I., must be lauded for launching the successful hunt for Osama Bin Laden. They accurately traced his whereabout and gave the order to launch a swift encounter that proved to be successful. It reiterated the fact that U.S. is still the most powerful nation in the world.

Even though Al-Quaeda and other terror outfits operating out of Pakistan has openly declared war on India and U.S., deep down inside they knew that U.S. is too powerful for even the most notorious of terrorists. Well, Osama paid for what he had sown. Although he should have met his fate long ago. It is always better late than never.

Will U.S. go after the I.S.I's suspects and other terror outfits deeply entrenched in the land of Pakistan? In all likelihood, they must be feeling betrayed by Pakistan's reluctance to weed out terrorists from its land. It clearly indicates their narrow minded agenda of spreading their malicious, yet a futile intent of turning this world into a dominating Islamic community.

As vague as it sounds, it is beyond impossible. All those Islamic extremists are fighting a lost cause. It will never substantiate into anything besides stoking the ire of world's powerful nations.

There are several hurdles to be tackled before we can rid this world of a plague called terrorism. The most noted one is getting Pakistan's establishment to admit their wrongdoings and getting them willingly extend their hands unconditionally in combating terrorists' menace.

Apart from that, U.S. and India needs to keep a close watch on China. They are a dangerous and treacherous country. The sound bytes emanating from China about U.S. invasion of Pakistan is not encouraging either. Being a communist country, they will never be supportive of capitalist U.S. and democratic India.

The allied nations must be prepared if U.S. decides to teach Pakistan a stern lesson. India will step up the offensive against the Pakistan if all dialogues and peace talks fail to materialize. Even though it won't happen in the near future, but it seems inevitable.

Now that the ball is in the court of U.S. President Barack Obama, whole world's eyes will be transfixed on him from now on. His every move will be closely monitored. If he sticks to his determination to bring the perpetrators of terror attacks around the world to justice, he will emerge as the face of the crusade against terrorism.

It's an uphill task as launching a world-wide operation requires unwavering commitment and abundant resources. It's just a start of an end game for terrorists organizations. Their fate is sealed. At the most, they can elude allied forces, but cannot avoid their fate.

The Posterboy of global terrorism Osama Bin Laden killed in Pakistan!

Every law abiding citizen who is opposed to extremism woke up to a pleasant news yesterday morning. The most wanted terrorist in the world, Osama Bin Laden was shot dead near Islamabad in Pakistan! It was a result of massive manhunt that began almost a decade ago with the sensational attack on twin towers of United States of America. It was led by U.S. Intelligence who amde a master move by going for the kill without alerting Pakistan.

A man who single handedly masterminded the most devastating terror attack in history on the most powerful nation in the world finally met his fate. It was shocking to say the least. Terrorism witnessed a surge around the world especially in India. Billions of dollars were spent on intelligence for tracing Osama Bin Laden and his men. It took almost a decade to finally bring the dreaded terrorist to justice.

All circumstantial evidences pointed towards Pakistan's direct involvement which its corrupt administration had been busy denying vehemently till they were exposed butt naked yesterday. In the wake of 9/11, whole world witnessed another deadly terrorist attack on India's commercial capital where bunch of gut toting terrorists including Kasab ran amok on that infamous 26/11 night in 2008. However, the lone captured terrorist, Ajmal Kasab is languishing in Indian jail awaiting his death.

However within 3 days, India's bravehearts including NSG commandos, Mumbai Police, Railway Police and Commoners including Railway Radio Announcer and Chotu Chaiwala fought valiantly. India and the whole world watched in concern when the perpetrators were sitting comfortably in Pakistan and running their sadistic war against India and democracy in general. In a way, it's a significant victory for allied democratic nations such as the illustrious members of G8.

Isn't Al-Quaeda the brain child of U.S.A. when they were at loggerheads with Soviet Union in 1980s? U.S. highest ranked officials trained Osama Bin Laden and his troops to fight against U.S.A's one time arch rival, Soviet Union. It was only time when this dangerous outlaws turned against them. U.S. administration is to be blamed for the loss of innocent lives around the world.

U.S. again was the culprit behind the scene as they continued to provide financial and arms support to Pakistan despite knowing the fact that it is known to be a safe haven for terrorists. It is obviously a double game of U.S. politics which is trying to maintain its world supremacy at all cost. On one hand, they vow to eliminate terrorism. While on the other hand, they are readily funding those who are sheltering the dangerous terrorists who can raise their deadly fangs again. This dirty politics by U.S. needs to stop.

Coming back to India's plight, we have always been a lone nation standing firm in their continual fight against terrorism. U.S. only realized it after it suffered embarassing suicide terror attack that shook them off their deep slumber of ignorance.

Are we seeing the bigger picture? Is Osama's death an end game for terrorism on this planet? Or is it just a symbolic victory for U.S. who sought revenge for the carnage of infamous 9/11? Will this galvanize the Al-Quaeda and other allied terror networks?? Only time will tell.

Indeed, it was a great achievement and a much needed justice was meted out all those innocent victims who became targets of Al Quaeda's nefarious crusade against humanity. It is always better late than never. Indeed, revenge was sweeter. All is well that ends well.

With Osama Bin Laden out of the way, we will hopefully see other anti-social elements such as Dawood Ibrahim and his henchmen on the hit list of democratic forces. Everybody knows that he is merrily living in Pakistan like a king. Will U.S. turn their focus on him and smoke him out of his comfort zone and pump bullets into him?

No matter how conniving the terrorist network gets, they can run and hide but cannot survive the collective effort of secular nations armed with a purpose of wiping them out from its roots.

Hopefully, that day is not far away when we will rid this earth of menace called terrorism and terrorists. First and foremost, we need to tackle the thinking that leads terrorists on this path of absurd violence.

India's most popular godman Sri Sathya Sai Baba is no more!

Being born in the early 1920's, the meteoric rise of India's most revered godman, Sri Sathya Sai Baba began. He was born in the city of Puttuparthy in Andhra Pradesh. As years went by, he immersed himself in spirituality. He went on to declare himself to be the reincarnation of Shirdi's Sai Baba.

This declaration caught the imagination of many spiritual followers in India and abroad. They began flocking to his abode for seeking his blessings. His face reflected the aura which had a magnetic effect on his followers. What soared his popularity even more was his act of pulling out precious metals out of thin air. The elite class comprising affluent business tycoons, actors, politicians from India and overseas began loosening their purses for donating generously to his charitable trust.

It will baffle you after reading that his Sathya Sai Baba Charitable Foundation is an empire worth mind boggling 40000 crore plus. I believe, it's a clear indication of his soaring popularity not just in India but abroad as well.

More than the mass hysteria surrounding him, he will always be remembered for his philanthropic work which aided helpless and hapless people.

It wouldn't be wrong to say that he had a legion of fan following which any top movie star or cricketer would envy. Some of India's most influential people including some top politicians, sportsmen and actors along with millions of commoners who looked up to him for seeking relief from pain and worries in their respective lives. Some came to him for cure for their ailing kins, while some came to him for finding peace of mind.

He offered solace to anyone and everyone who came to his Ashram. It was reported that he was ailing for past few weeks. When he was admitted to the hospital, he was put on ventilator as he had problem while breathing. And his vital parameters had stopped functioning as result he stopped responding to medications.

He took his last breath on the morning of 23rd April, 2011. When hospital declared his passing away, whole country was engulfed in the grief of his demise. Everyone whose life was touched by this graceful and calm personified Sri Sathya Sai Baba, were moved by this irreverisble loss.

Who's who flocked to his ashram in Puttuparthy to get a last glimpse of their spiritual guru. The elite list was led by India's favourite son of the soil, Sachin R. Tendulkar who was a self-confessed devotee of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. Sai Baba was a pillar of strength and hope to millions.

He was definitely the hercules amongst all godmen whose personality was defined by his simplicity, grace, benevolence and unmistakable aura which he exuded. At a time when all other pretending godmen were marred in one controversy or the other, Sathya Sai Baba stood tall with his spotless conduct in the public domain.

It seems that we have witnessed the end of an era of spiritual gurus in India's spiritual history.

I would like to offer my heartfelt condolence to Sri Sathya Sai Baba's burgeoning list of devotees. His generous contributions in the field of education by building Sri Sathya Sai University is well known. May his soul rest in peace. And let his work continue to inspire and illuminate this world devoid of benevolent deed in this modern age.

Anna Brigade a phenomenon or just another passing fad??

Just when World Cup reached a crescendo, another World Cup was being played out on streets by general public of India. It was for a social cause of eradicating corruption which is clearly eating the roots of our great democracy in the similar way white ants eat the timber.

And one man rose to the occasion with his selfless service to the nation for over three decades and more. He is the poster boy of India's fight against corruption and he answers to the name of Anna Hajare. Believe me, he is a 72 year old octogenarian with a tenacity of a bull shark.

Across India, he is known for his squeaky clean image and someone who is a self-confessed Gandhian. He believes in fasting as a way of protesting against unjust and unethical practices. And he is not alone! He enjoys the support of every common man yearning for a change in the system for better. For us, the 'Aam' Janta, he is our voice.

Just over a week ago, he declared war on corruption as a whole which includes corrupt government ministers and bureacrats whose nexus has already caused enough damage to the reputation of our great democracy. Anna Hajare is a crusader who believes in letting his action do the talking. His social work is well documented and well-known across India.

Anna Hajare decided to fast unto death unless and until 'Lokpal Bill' is passed in the parliament. This bill aims at punishing the culprits and in turn effectively help in curbing it in the longer run. It was really heartening to see the sea of people turn out in unison for supporting his social initiative.

People prayed for his success. In fact, they joined him along with a forthright anti-corruption crusader, Arvind Kejriwal. Support poured in for him from all quarters - be it from film fraternity to sports fraternity to corporates. Most importantly, commoners participated in large numbers which made it a huge success.

However, in the wake of this mass awakening, few even had temerity to doubt Anna Hajare's character. Some even went on to label his way of protest as 'Blackmailing'. Such remarks are juvenile and proves that these people are against the larger interest of the R.K. Laxman's 'Common Man'. Such anti-socials are certain misfits in our society.

My only concern is that we as commoners have won the battle and not war! I sincerely hope that the uprising against corruption plaguing our great democracy doesnot wane. It's imperative for every like-minded Indian against corruption to stay united till we actually uproot it from its deeply entrenched root. Mind you, it's easier said than done.

I'd like to cite a brilliant example of mutiny of a certain Mangal Pandey that led to an uprising against the mighty British Empire which ultimately led to its downfall. This time around, our enemy is within. And it's a dangerous evil if I may say so. We need to stick together to tackle it effectively.

I would like to conclude with that often heard adage 'United we stand and divided we fall'. Jai Hind.

Scribe for Life - Let the words flow \m/: IPL turned 4 in 2011!

Scribe for Life - Let the words flow \m/: IPL turned 4 in 2011!: "Ever since the inception of a revolutionary concept called I.P.L. which loosely translates to Indian Premier League. Its essence permits In..."

IPL turned 4 in 2011!

Ever since the inception of a revolutionary concept called I.P.L. which loosely translates to Indian Premier League. Its essence permits International cricketers of repute to represent local Indian franchisees which creates a perfect mix. It's a perfect platform for those who aspire to represent India to show their mettle. Truly, IPL has come a long way ever since its inaugural first season.

To be honest, the format of IPL took the cricketing world by storm! It actually succeeded in throwing up promising talent for not just India but all cricket playing nations. Being the latest baby of cricket, T-20 cricket has been taken to the next level. It's a highly entertaining and at the same time, it provides an ideal platform for advertisers to showcase their brands in this cricket savvy nation.

2011 marks the 4th birthday of IPL. It has turned out to be bigger and better than the previous year. This year, the viewership is expected to hit the sky since Team India has become World Champions barely a couple of weeks back. The euphoria is understandably palpable. Another reason being the introduction of latest inductees in the IPL - Pune Warriors and Kochi Tuskers Kerala.

Apart from that, this year's auction meant that there are sweeping changes in the dynamics of the team from the previous years. For instance, a glaring example of Delhi Daredevils has seen a sea of change. As their skipper, Virender Sehwag, is the only constant in their team. It meant 10 new faces will feature in their side. Similarly, Kings 11 Punjab will be without their iconic player, Yuvraj Singh who was a revelation in the recently concluded world cup. He will be definitely missed by Preity Zinta's franchisee.

It will be difficult for viewers to adjust to the new faces as the very same faces were a part of opposition just a year back. Loyalties of those players who were bought at the auction has shifted. The newcomers Pune Warrior looks strong on paper and the way they have played their first 2 matches. And the same goes for Kochi Tuskers Kerala who defeated one of the hot favourites, Mumbai Indians at their own den yesterday! It has created tremendous interest in these two franchisees already.

This is just a start. And 20-20 is not for a faint hearted. So IPL juggernaut is ready to roll in 2011!

As always, I will always be Mumbai Indians loyalist for two reasons - one being that I am a born Mumbaikar and other one is no rocket science either. Mumbai Indians is being led by the God of Batting, Sachin R. Tendulkar himself! It's a sheer privilege to have been able to watch the Living Legend of world cricket in action for the past 21 years. He is simply phenomenal. His hundred was simply sublime although it came in a losing cause. My gut feel says that this IPL year belongs to the Master! May it turned out that way in the end.

Team India has rewritten history with their 2nd World Cup win!

Before the World Cup began, India were billed as one of the favourites. There were few cricketing who felt that India didn't have what it takes to become World Champions. He argued by saying that India's bowling was like a struggling juggler with only Zaheer Khan and Harbhajan Singh to bank on.

In the initial stages, India didn't give an impression that on the eve of the grand finale, they would emerge triumphant. But they almost miraculously survived the scare after their lone loss to South Africa followed by their unexpected tie after amassing runs in excess of 330. Once again India's over dependence on Zaheer Khan and Harbhajan Singh once again got exposed.

This time, it was different from the previous teams that participated in the World Cups. One reason being their over dependence on the dimunitive genius of Sachin R. Tendulkar. India came into this premier one day tournament with a tag of best batting line-up in the world. They lived up to their billing perfectly.

So what or rather who was the catalyst that unified the team which boasts of an illustrious batting legend of Sachin R. Tendulkar, explosive Virender Sehwag, tenacious Gautam Gambhir, wily Zaheer Khan, feisty Harbhajan Singh in that line-up. But to me, the real difference was the return of the rejuvenated Yuvraj Singh as an all-rounder! He batted with gumption and showed glimpses of explosive batting that has made him the darling of the masses.

He did not just shine with the bat but he shined as a bowler as well. He ended up with bucketful of wickets. Everybody in the team, coach and support staff knew that this is the last time that they will see the Master Sachin R. Tendulkar in the action. To bring all the players together like brothers in arms, they wanted to win this World Cup for him as a tribute to the greatest batsman this criketing world has ever seen. In the end, that worked wonderfully well for this determined Indian team.

This time around, India had the best skipper in Mahendra Singh Dhoni aka M.S.D. who led from the front. In India, captaincy is a crown laden with thorns. And how amazingly he galvanised the team as one in partnership with an affable, ice cool coach in Gary Kirsten. After having led India to their inaugural T-20 World Championship in 2007 along with leading Team India to the numero uno spot in the Test arena.

Truly, it was the beginning of a fairy tale journey to the top of the pecking order in the criketing world. This Indian team unlike their predecessor raised their game when it mattered the most. Every Indian in India and abroad began day dreaming from the Quarter Final stage onwards. They faced a formidable yet a familiar foe in Australia, the reigning World Champions even though they are on decline. Team India went past one hurdle on the brilliance of Sachin R. Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh and everyone else chipped in with their invaluable contribution.

Next up was the mother of all matches between arch-rivals, India and Pakistan. Media went into overdrive by labelling it as war on the cricketing field. This match generated tremendous interest among the general public. This match certainly lived up to its billing. India chose to bat and Virender Sehwag went ballistic against Pakistan's premier fast bowler Umar Gul by hammering him for four fours in an over. Their fielding was magnanimous to say the least as they dropped 4 catches of Sachin R. Tendulkar! As the old cricketing adage goes 'Catches wins Matches'.

Master scored a scratchy but useful 80 odd to maintain their stranglehold on Pakistan with 5 wins out of 5.

With semi-final done away with, India took on one of the favourites in Sri-Lanka. Media made a hash out of this final as well. It was champion off-spinner, Muttiah Muralidaran's swan song just as it was the last world cup match for Sachin. Media exploited it fully.

Final had that controversial twist with Sri-Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara called the toss and amid the boisterous Mumbai crowd, he deceived everybody with his call. Even match officials and on field umpires could not hear Kumar's call clearly. He chose to bat and put up a formidable total of 270 odd. And given the grandeur of the occasion, it was a fighting total thanks to Mahela Jayawardene's classic century!

India's innings got off to a worst possible start with slinga Malinga scalped 2 huge wickets of Virender Sehwag and Sachin R. Tendulkar. The boisterous crowd went dead silent and understandably so. India's super strong batting line-up was put to test. This time around, they rose to the challenge like they often did in the recent past. India's young turks, Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli were involved in a crucial 4th wicket partnership. It not only steadied the ship, but gave self confidence to the Indians with their steadiness. The former scored a macth turning 91 runs before he got out.

Then skipper Dhoni walked in with more than pne hundred fifty runs to go for a famous win. He walked with a stride that exuded confidence. Dhoni ended up playing a match winning and World Cup winning knock under pressure. He scored the winning run with his trademark swagger six. With Yuvraj yet again played with great maturity was at the other end when Dhoni's mavericks rewrote the history by eclipsing Australia's stranglehold on the World Cup. 'Cometh the hour, cometh the man'. Dhoni proved it with his best innings of his career.

It was destined to be Sachin's world cup after all. He played magnificently throughout. When he was given the lap of honour, the crowd went ballistic with chants of India and Sachin.

India are world champions! It's time to rejoice! The macth had a dream ending with Sachin adding the elusive World Cup to his list of many glittering achievements in his career spanning more than two decades and still going stronger than ever!

Clash of the Titans as India takes on South Africa

Weekend is finally here. And it promises to be an exciting one for all cricket fans as world cup fever is raging like an inferno with today's match of potential world cup winners - Hosts India takes on formidable South Africa side. Both sides have recently played in a closely fought ODI series on latter's home turf. South Africa managed to win it albeit narrowly although India were without the services of the Little Master, Sachin Tendulkar.

Last time Sachin played against South Africa, he smashed a record double ton against the likes of Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel, Johann Botha, Jacques Kallis and co. making up the formidable bowling lineup.

Today, once again they are pitted against each other on the grandest stage of the world cup. Past is to be forgotten to focus on the present. That would be the exact endeavor of both the teams. Obviously when two of the top sides collide, there are going to be battles within a battle for supremacy.

To start off with, India's Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag will be keen on taking on Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel. If that is not enough, star studded middle and lower order batting lineup of India boasting of Gautam Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh, M.S. Dhoni, Virat Kohli and Yusuf Pathan will look to dominate Johann Botha and young, talented leg spinner in Imran Tahir.

While Zaheer Khan will once again look to dismiss his bunny in South African captain, Graeme Smith. While Harbhajan Singh will look to stamp his authority against the consistency of Jacques Kallis, A.B. Devilliers and Hashim Amla.

Given the recent record between these two top nations in world cricket, it promises to be a humdinger. Which way tide will turn? Only time will spin a different tale for its twists and turns. Home support will be an added advantage for Team India as yet another run feasts awaits the jam packed Nagpur crowd.

Heat will be turned on the field and off it with mercury rising upto warm and humid 38 degrees.

Apart from that it's going to be a battle for one upmanship between India's M.S. Dhoni and Graeme Smith. Both would ideally love to seize the opportunities that come along the way during the course of this titanic clash.

It's Super Sunday as Team India takes on England

It definitely promises to be a Super Sunday only if weather gods permit. There is a forecast of rain which may prove to be a dampener as it features one of the strong title contenders, India who is taking on their former rulers, England. A lot has transpired since those days of British raj. Being a former colony of the former British empire, India has been in tremendous form over the past year and half.

Coming back to cricket, England has been in indifferent form off late as they lost to resurgent Australians in the recently concluded ODI series. But England has been traditional underachievers in the world of cricket. Even though they had invented the game, but it is mastered by other teams.

This crucial encounter will be played in front of several thousands of vociferous Indian spectators cheering on their cricketing heroes. Besides this obvious home advantage, India has a perfect blenf of experience and youth in their ranks to rankle even the toughest of opponents.

Any team which boasts of Little Master, Sachin R. Tendulkar, marauding Virender Sehwag, tenacious Gautam Gambhir, flamboyant Yuvraj Singh, promising Virat Kohli, Captain cool Mahendra Singh Dhoni, explosive Yusuf Pathan, lion hearted Harbhajan Singh, wily Zaheer Khan, frugal Munaf Patel and talented leg spinner Piyush Chawla. Even if 5 of these supremely gifted cricketers click in their respective departments of batting and bowling, then India is going to impose themselves on this English side.

This time around, England have a good unit consisting of talented players like Kevin Pietersen, their captain Andrew Strauss, experienced Paul Collingwood, James Anderson and Stuart Broad in their ranks to give team India a run for their money. But given the strengths of both the team, India are firm favourites though this English can give them a jitter or two.

Tomorrow's big clash promises to be a humdinger as it has all the ingredients of being a nail biter if both team play to their potential. Although I would stick my neck out and say that given the talent and wealth of experience, team India is ahead of this good English side.

I am keeping my fingers crossed for Sehwaag's dhamaaka and Sachin Tendulkar's magic! My heart and mind both unanimously expects Team India to come up with a superlative performance. Come on Team India, make us proud!

Hot favourites India takes on minnows Bangladesh in the World Cup, 2011 opener!

The countdown to the world's premiere cricket tournament, ICC Cricket World cup, 2011,has well and truly begun.With less than a day remaining when two host nations, title contenders, India takes on minnow, Bangladesh in their own den. If yesterday's opening ceremony left you bewildered, then saturday's clash is going to be feast for senses. It's going to be a carnival atmosphere as home side takes on formidable neighbours, India.

Before we get down to analysing tomorrow's teams. It seems to be a clash between the David in Bangladesh against Goliath in India. But in cricket, everything changes with the blink of your eyes. You blink and you will miss it moments are what makes this gentlemans' game so exciting!

India will start as firm favourites tomorrow with the some of the legends of the game take the field. To start with batting line up, it does not get any bigger than the name of the world's best batsman for over two decades, Sachin R. Tendulkar. Along side the master, blaster in Virender Sehwag is one of the most destructive opening batsmen will open the innings to give India an early impetus. If these two superstars are in the mood, vociferous Bangladeshi supporters will go mute. But at the same time, they will simply entertained by two legends of world cricket.

If at all Bangladesh get rid of either or both of these stalwarts, then tenacious Gautam Gambhir will look to play the sheet anchors' role to perfection. After Gautam Gambhir, India will look to play another dashing batsman in Yuvraj Singh who is expected to end his lean patch in this world cup. If he gets going, there is going to be fireworks and huge Bangladeshi crowd will be treated with exhilarating stroke play.

Besides Yuvraj Singh, there is a talented youngster in Virat Kohli who will be looking to make a mark in world cricket when he plays his first world cup match tomorrow. It's going to be a big occasion for him to represent India at the World Cup. His consistency and rich veinf of form will give that extra motivation and confidence to put his best foot forward.

Bangladesh team is still not done with batting machine of India. After Virat, they will have to contend with Captain Cool, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who is a proven match winner himself. He can be deadly with a willow in his hands as well. If situation demands him to play a grafting innings, he can do it equally well. He is definitely one of the men in crisis for Team India. Bangladesh team must watch out for his explosive batting.

If Bangladesh thought that they have got rid of India's batting machine, then explosive Yusuf Pathan comes to the crease. If Yusuf gets hang of the Bangladeshi bowlers, they will be staring at a huge score for sure!

India is not a superior bowling side but a good bowling attack after taking subcontinental pitch conditions into account. They do possess two supremely gifted bowlers in pace spearhead, Zaheer Khan and ace spinner in Harbhajan Singh. They will be backed by mercurial yet gifted Sreesanth.

Indian thinktank will look to play a seamer in Munaf Patel who is known for his accurate bowling as he is in good rythm offlate. Fourth bowler will be either Piyush Chawla or Ravichandran Ashwin. Both of them are going to be more than handy given the spinner friendly conditions. Captain Dhoni will be tempted to play both of them for sure!

India traditionally had a problem with 5 bowler. But this time around, it's going to be a different story. India will be cheered on by billion spectators who will encourage the team to uplift their game in tense situations.

I am getting a sneaky feeling that India is going to sound an alarm warning tomorrow for their nearest rivals in this competition. With the kind of arsenal which Team India possesses, I predict a win for the side. Come on India! Yes we can!