Eager to tackle the Kolhapur - Goa stretch at 540 am
Taking a shower on the Amboli ghat
Some warm-ups before the wheeelie
Up on Zoo Zoo Hill
Me and Sanam pose for pictures
After some mud crunching in the marshes
Monday, June 21, 2010
Samara's Goa Trip Photos
Eager to tackle the Kolhapur - Goa stretch at 540 am
Taking a shower on the Amboli ghat
Some warm-ups before the wheeelie
Up on Zoo Zoo Hill
Me and Sanam pose for pictures
After some mud crunching in the marshes
Back to Pune
Samara set a fresh record of 5 hours 30 mins from Goa to Pune. We've done 5.15 earlier in the Fiesta, but given that we left at 9.00 am and got a lot of initial traffic, this record does matter!
This was truly Samara's coming of age trip, watch out for the wheelie video and pictures coming up in a while!
This was truly Samara's coming of age trip, watch out for the wheelie video and pictures coming up in a while!
Movie Review: Raavan
What works for Raavan: Stunning locales and amazing cinematography, innovative and unseen camera angles.
What doesn't work: everything else.
Raavan is a modern day version of the kidnapping of Sita, and her Agnipariksha, although the "rescue" here becomes an uneventful release. Beera (Mr Aishwarya Rai Bacchan) is part Naxalite, part Veerappan from a place that is as bewitching and beautiful as any in the world. He kidnaps the wife of a very handsome police officer (southie Vikram), planning to kill her 14 hours later (yes, they got the number right!) for revenge of his sister, a victim of police excesses. Inexplicably (how else do you justify him falling for someone who screams in constipated agony?) he falls in love, and 14 days later, decides to let her go. But the modern day Ram will not rest till he has finished Mission Eliminate Beera. He conspires to have her "follow her heart" to her beloved Raavan (yes, she switches loyalty faster than it takes the machine at Inox to dispense the coffee), follows her with some heavily armoured men (no, not tanks), and blows Beera to pieces.
But not before Beera keeps uttering his most inspirational dialogue (zhig zhig zhig zhig... accompanied by a vigorous shaking of head akin to someone trying to shake out the non-existent vuvuzela bees from his ears), dances like a man possessed amidst beautiful ruins of temples in the rain, smears haldi on his face in anguish over the death of his clan members, and generally makes you wish you could die in peace.
Not before Aishwarya reminds you it's time to go to the potty with her constipated cries of anguish (yes, I know I repeated this - but it's still relevant and true), tries hard to make her breasts fall out of her blouse (thankfully, she doesn't succeed) and does a Hrithik-like jig in her jeans, making you wonder if she's got a frog in her pants.
Not before... oh god, just leave it. I wanted to try and describe the torture of living through the song and dance sequences, but will defer it out of whatever little respect I have left for Rahman.
PLease go watch the movie, I don't want to be the only one having suffered through it.
What doesn't work: everything else.
Raavan is a modern day version of the kidnapping of Sita, and her Agnipariksha, although the "rescue" here becomes an uneventful release. Beera (Mr Aishwarya Rai Bacchan) is part Naxalite, part Veerappan from a place that is as bewitching and beautiful as any in the world. He kidnaps the wife of a very handsome police officer (southie Vikram), planning to kill her 14 hours later (yes, they got the number right!) for revenge of his sister, a victim of police excesses. Inexplicably (how else do you justify him falling for someone who screams in constipated agony?) he falls in love, and 14 days later, decides to let her go. But the modern day Ram will not rest till he has finished Mission Eliminate Beera. He conspires to have her "follow her heart" to her beloved Raavan (yes, she switches loyalty faster than it takes the machine at Inox to dispense the coffee), follows her with some heavily armoured men (no, not tanks), and blows Beera to pieces.
But not before Beera keeps uttering his most inspirational dialogue (zhig zhig zhig zhig... accompanied by a vigorous shaking of head akin to someone trying to shake out the non-existent vuvuzela bees from his ears), dances like a man possessed amidst beautiful ruins of temples in the rain, smears haldi on his face in anguish over the death of his clan members, and generally makes you wish you could die in peace.
Not before Aishwarya reminds you it's time to go to the potty with her constipated cries of anguish (yes, I know I repeated this - but it's still relevant and true), tries hard to make her breasts fall out of her blouse (thankfully, she doesn't succeed) and does a Hrithik-like jig in her jeans, making you wonder if she's got a frog in her pants.
Not before... oh god, just leave it. I wanted to try and describe the torture of living through the song and dance sequences, but will defer it out of whatever little respect I have left for Rahman.
PLease go watch the movie, I don't want to be the only one having suffered through it.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Samara Goes to Goa
On Thursday evening, Samara left on her maiden visit to Goa, her longest trip so far. We had decided to take a halt at Kolhapur, and so took an evening start, leaving from Pune by 5.00 pm. The weather was beautiful, dark clouds, but not much rain. The chilly weather and the gradually undulating terrain was perfect for the 250 km drive. With Sanam sleeping peacefully on the back seat, my friend and her cousin ensconsed in their blankets on the middle seats, watching Twilight on the DVD, wifey and I enjoyed the drive immensely. We reached Kolhapur by 830 pm, after a 30 min break for bhajiyas and chai at the Sai International, half an hour from the city.
I did miss my Fiesta, though... the agility of the car enabling better power driving on the highway. Another thing you have to be careful of in the Endy are sudden jumps on the road, those uncomfortable speed bumps, which don't harm the front seat passengers, but can be pretty bad for the passengers in the rear. Thankfully, the super efficient ABS brakes on the Endy ensure you can avoid the impact to a large extent.
So round 1 was a tie, power driving on the highway went to the Fiesta, although the Endy made up through it's better in-car entertainment and stressless long driving experience.
Day 2 began at 545 am, with a slight drizzle, the last hour of the night yet to pass. By the time, we hit the Nipani-Uttur-Azra-Amboli-Sawantwadi stretch, both the car and her driver had sufficiently warmed up and found their rhythm, ready for what was expected to be the biggest challenge - 100 km of second class road, narrow and twisty, through fields and jungles, and the Western ghats. This has always been my time guzzler on all speed record attempts, the Fiesta needing to slow down on the potholed stretches, having to follow the lumbering STs and trucks, having to slow down to a crawl to let incoming traffic pass. And this is where the Endy proved it's worth, easily managing to stay at an average 100-120 kmph, effortlessly handling the potholes, scaring half the incoming traffic off the road long before we came to a head, and easily stepping off the tarred surface when needed for those tight squeezes.
The eye-opener was on the ghat. We were taking a hair pin bend at a decent speed when we suddenly saw this truck broken down right in our path, requiring emergency brakes and a tighter turn to pass the parked truck safely. The ABS kicked in, enabling unbelievably smooth and safe passage, and my respect for the Endy went up a level of magnitude.
Immediately after the Amboli ghat, a mostly-kuccha road takes you directly to Banda, saving around 20km and half an hour of frustrating single lane traffic in the Sawantwadi area, and we had tremendous fun throwing the Endy at the huge ponds of water, splashing through, the delugu splashing onto the windscreen and blinding the driver for a brief moment, before the wipers take over.
We reached Goa by 830, well in time for our first chai of the day!
Goa has been a lot of fun offering unlimited offroad opportunities. Wait for some cool pictures and videos, to be uploaded as soon as I reach broadband land.
I did miss my Fiesta, though... the agility of the car enabling better power driving on the highway. Another thing you have to be careful of in the Endy are sudden jumps on the road, those uncomfortable speed bumps, which don't harm the front seat passengers, but can be pretty bad for the passengers in the rear. Thankfully, the super efficient ABS brakes on the Endy ensure you can avoid the impact to a large extent.
So round 1 was a tie, power driving on the highway went to the Fiesta, although the Endy made up through it's better in-car entertainment and stressless long driving experience.
Day 2 began at 545 am, with a slight drizzle, the last hour of the night yet to pass. By the time, we hit the Nipani-Uttur-Azra-Amboli-Sawantwadi stretch, both the car and her driver had sufficiently warmed up and found their rhythm, ready for what was expected to be the biggest challenge - 100 km of second class road, narrow and twisty, through fields and jungles, and the Western ghats. This has always been my time guzzler on all speed record attempts, the Fiesta needing to slow down on the potholed stretches, having to follow the lumbering STs and trucks, having to slow down to a crawl to let incoming traffic pass. And this is where the Endy proved it's worth, easily managing to stay at an average 100-120 kmph, effortlessly handling the potholes, scaring half the incoming traffic off the road long before we came to a head, and easily stepping off the tarred surface when needed for those tight squeezes.
The eye-opener was on the ghat. We were taking a hair pin bend at a decent speed when we suddenly saw this truck broken down right in our path, requiring emergency brakes and a tighter turn to pass the parked truck safely. The ABS kicked in, enabling unbelievably smooth and safe passage, and my respect for the Endy went up a level of magnitude.
Immediately after the Amboli ghat, a mostly-kuccha road takes you directly to Banda, saving around 20km and half an hour of frustrating single lane traffic in the Sawantwadi area, and we had tremendous fun throwing the Endy at the huge ponds of water, splashing through, the delugu splashing onto the windscreen and blinding the driver for a brief moment, before the wipers take over.
We reached Goa by 830, well in time for our first chai of the day!
Goa has been a lot of fun offering unlimited offroad opportunities. Wait for some cool pictures and videos, to be uploaded as soon as I reach broadband land.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Movie Review: Karate Kid
When young Dre Parker (Will Smith's son, Jaden Smith) moves to Beijing with his mother, he is forced to take on a bunch of ruthless Chinese bullies from his school. His frail body no match for their karate training, he is pumelled time and again, until the "maintenance man" in his apartment building takes him as his student and prepares him for the ultimate showdown, the karate tournament.
Jaden impresses with a stunning performance, his innocence, his vulnerability and frail body providing a stunnign contrast to the determination, sweat and karate skills he picks up from his mentor.
Jackie Chan has his moments of brilliance, but it's Jaden that the movie completely revolves around.
A very nice movie.
Jaden impresses with a stunning performance, his innocence, his vulnerability and frail body providing a stunnign contrast to the determination, sweat and karate skills he picks up from his mentor.
Jackie Chan has his moments of brilliance, but it's Jaden that the movie completely revolves around.
A very nice movie.
Tuesday, June 08, 2010
GE Money Rocks
Last week, when we decided to sell off Madhavi's old car, we ran into a major issue. The RTA needed confirmation from the financier that the loan had been paid off - apparently, this is a must before you can transfer ownership. You need an NOC, as well as Form 17 and Form 35.
The problems were many. The loan had been cleared a year back. And Maruti Countrywide, with whom we had taken the loan, was now part of GE Money. And to top it all, we had no idea about the loan account number, no documentation, nothing.
I wrote to GE Money about the situation and they promised to help. Less than a week later, I had everything I needed, delivered to me at home.
All they asked for was the car number. No other forms, no other formalities, no visits to their office. Zero fuss. Max service.
GE Money rocks - another example of wonderful customer service I have seen in India recently.
The problems were many. The loan had been cleared a year back. And Maruti Countrywide, with whom we had taken the loan, was now part of GE Money. And to top it all, we had no idea about the loan account number, no documentation, nothing.
I wrote to GE Money about the situation and they promised to help. Less than a week later, I had everything I needed, delivered to me at home.
All they asked for was the car number. No other forms, no other formalities, no visits to their office. Zero fuss. Max service.
GE Money rocks - another example of wonderful customer service I have seen in India recently.
Sunday, June 06, 2010
Sanam at Shiamak Davar's Dance Show
First from right, this is one of the two dances she participated in. This is from a report in the Sakal Times, 4th June English edition.
Badalta Plan or Bewakoof Customer?
With competition hotting up, cellular companies are trying hard to woo customers with lower and lower tariffs and other schemes. After coming down to 1 paise per minute, what else? Tata Indicom recently launched a daily plan - where customers can keep changing their plan on a day to day basis, as per their talking pattern! Convenient, or just crazy? Well, Uninor, which is making its debut in Pune, has launched a Badalta Discount Plan, wherein customers are promised a new and different dicsount plan every few km! How the hell does that help consumers other than simply confusing the hell out of them? Am I encouraged to go around town making calls, checking out my discount rate every few meters? I wish companies would focus on providing better and more reliable services, and stop playing these stupid games with their consumers!
Movie Review: Kites
Much has been written and said about Kites, but the authors missed one major factor that made me love it. A sexy Black Ford Everest (that's what they call it in the US!) which holds it's own and comes out tops against a Hummer :)
Coming back to the movie itself, it's definitely not worth the hype and the noise surrounding it. Hrithik, for me, is going from bad to worse. He needs to be, look and act like a human again. Barbara Mori, though, looks and acts beautifully, and sizzles the screen with her body, her smile and her adahs. Totally worth it!
The action scenes are OK, the story line is nothing to write about, and the end really ends any hopes the movie had of redemption! A couple of tracks, however, make the music CD a must buy.
Watch it, it's not that bad an option if you have nothing else to do. And Barbara needs your support :)
Coming back to the movie itself, it's definitely not worth the hype and the noise surrounding it. Hrithik, for me, is going from bad to worse. He needs to be, look and act like a human again. Barbara Mori, though, looks and acts beautifully, and sizzles the screen with her body, her smile and her adahs. Totally worth it!
The action scenes are OK, the story line is nothing to write about, and the end really ends any hopes the movie had of redemption! A couple of tracks, however, make the music CD a must buy.
Watch it, it's not that bad an option if you have nothing else to do. And Barbara needs your support :)
Movie Review: Shrek Forever After (3D)
Checked out the latest installment of the Shrek franchise, Shrek Forever After, in 3D, last weekend at ESquare. Not bad for a family outing, the 3D glasses and picture quality were good, but definitely not as much fun as the earlier movies. Can take a miss.
Movie Review: Atithi Kab Jaoge
What happens when a much-awaited guest comes home, but then refuses to go away? AKJ is a simple movie, with a simple story line, mostly predictable. With Ajay and Konkona, and the king of comedy, Paresh Rawal, though, you expect a lot more, and that is why AKJ disappoints.
The best part of the movie? Two scenes with a black Endy! :)
The best part of the movie? Two scenes with a black Endy! :)
Friday, June 04, 2010
10000 Hits on the Counter :)
My hits counter crossed 10000 today - that's about a 1000 a month since Aug last year, or 30 per day :) Not bad for an amateur blogger like me who can't get over certain fetishes - right now, my Endy, for example!
Thanks folks, for inspiring me to continue observing, thinking, and sharing.
Thanks folks, for inspiring me to continue observing, thinking, and sharing.
Movie Review: Daybreakers
Vampires have taken over the world, humans are being farmed for their blood. Dwindling numbers of humans, though, are threatening the survival of the vampires. Will a blood substitute ever replace the real thing?
Lot of blood and gore, bodies exploding, splattering innards over bystanders...
Get it?
Not for the weak hearted, but not a bad movie, actually.
Lot of blood and gore, bodies exploding, splattering innards over bystanders...
Get it?
Not for the weak hearted, but not a bad movie, actually.
Tuesday, June 01, 2010
Hailstorm
Had an amazing rain and hailstorm today, following the thundershowers that lashed Pune last evening.
Here's a pic of a bunch of hailstones:
Here's a pic of a bunch of hailstones:
Take Off
Did something with Samara I always dreamt of but never really achieved as well as I wanted to with Lisa and Reona... a take off. We were coming back from a late night movie, the roads were empty, and the new elevated pedestrian crossing ramps on Baner road provided the perfect setting for a take off jump in the Endy. And as we hit the ramp at 100 kmph, the Endy took off effortlessly, jumped a few meters and then almost as effortlessly glided back onto its wheels, rocking once more before settling into the ride. Not a whimper from the suspension, not one second of hesitation, absolutely no loss of control.
We did it again a few hundred meters at the second ramp, this time much slower.
It is such an addictive feeling, I am afraid it's here to stay!
We did it again a few hundred meters at the second ramp, this time much slower.
It is such an addictive feeling, I am afraid it's here to stay!
Saturday, May 29, 2010
New Baby on the Way!
Booked our new Ford Fiesta SXi (Sea Gray) yesterday, for Madhavi. Also ordered a sky roof (still debating if we should have it), rear spoiler and reverse camera. Car comes with standard alloy wheels (which Reona doesn't have) and leather upholstery. The in-dash player now also supports MP3.
Look forward to getting her early next month!
Look forward to getting her early next month!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Apollo Flight of the Hawkz
Nice reality show on Nat Geo these days, Apollo Flight of the Hawkz, primarily focussed on off-roading from Lavasa to Goa. Mostly Gypsies, some sexy off-roading stunts. But the coolest thing: the hostess Nethra uses an Endy :) Yesterday she was talking about how the Bluetooth in the car enables her to talk while driving safely, with eyes on the road and hands on the wheel :)
Monday, May 24, 2010
Rack Off :)
OK guys, thank you for the frank feedback and for taking my poll. I have taken off the rack - your overwhelming votes against it helped convince me that that inner voice telling me to take it off wasn't alone :)
30K worth of aluminium is now paper-wrapped and hanging from the roof of my unused bathroom-turned-store :)
30K worth of aluminium is now paper-wrapped and hanging from the roof of my unused bathroom-turned-store :)
Ford Ad
If there were no cars, there would be
- No car pools
- No lying about your age for a licence
- No romancing in the back seat
- Nothing to put a just married sticker on
- No peeping into new cars
- No eyes meeting in the rear-view mirror
- No "Are we there yet, Daddy?"
- No "new car smell"
- No Women drivers
- No Driving off into the sunset
- No 0 - 60
- No love bug...........
I am trying to find a better picture and the full text, I know I have it somewhere.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
With or Without?
Does Samara look better without or with the roof rack? I need it for a full-house long distance travel only, but if you think it looks good, I might as well keep it. If it makes the Endy look more like a public transport vehicle, though, I can easily take it off... all it takes is 8 small screws.
Please take the poll on the blog (see to your right!) and help me decide!
Please take the poll on the blog (see to your right!) and help me decide!
Seven
Saw seven Endeavours today, five of them sexy black, one with awesome headlights. The best, of course, happened to be Samara :)
The reason I am mentioning this is simple - I never noticed Endeavours earlier. Is it just because I have one now that I am seeing them on the road? Or has the Endy breed really grown so much since I bought mine?
I got Samara her roof rack and headlamp guards today. The roof-mounted DVD player now works great too, it was a faulty power cable that gave the problem earlier. With the sound system at full blast, it's really a mini theatre with dolby experience in the back seats!
Tomorrow, hopefully, we'll get the ladder and the spoiler.
All I need then is a bank of fog/head lights on her head, and we are ready to rock the world.
The reason I am mentioning this is simple - I never noticed Endeavours earlier. Is it just because I have one now that I am seeing them on the road? Or has the Endy breed really grown so much since I bought mine?
I got Samara her roof rack and headlamp guards today. The roof-mounted DVD player now works great too, it was a faulty power cable that gave the problem earlier. With the sound system at full blast, it's really a mini theatre with dolby experience in the back seats!
Tomorrow, hopefully, we'll get the ladder and the spoiler.
All I need then is a bank of fog/head lights on her head, and we are ready to rock the world.
Newer Mile Sur?
I saw the Mile Sur video on Zoom TV today (see my earlier post at here) and guess what, they have updated the video to add all our young sports icons! Sachin, Saina, and many others... pretty cool :)
Friday, May 21, 2010
Google TV
Watch out for Google TV, a combination of TV, Internet and Search - endless possibilities, but will it be the same as our idiot box?
Shouldn't be too far away!
Shouldn't be too far away!
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Samara Updates
Samara completed 2000 kms today, and in the last 20 days, she's been twice to Mumbai, to Lavasa, Panchgani/Mahabaleshwar and Sinhagad.
She's also been valet-parked at the Hyatt in Mumbai, and the Mariott in Pune :) Got my first view of her on the road, being driven by someone else, and it was such a sight - all the mean muscle barelling down, the huge roar of the engine making everyone look out! Awesome!
Today, she had her first "accident" - at the Ratna Hospital traffic signal, an i10 nudged her from behind. Thankfully, she didn't get even a scratch!
She also got her own Team BHP sticker today.
Hopefully, over the next week, she'll have her spoiler, roof rack and ladder. And have her DVD drop down screen fixed too. Her floor mats have already been installed, and the chiller is on board too!
She's also been valet-parked at the Hyatt in Mumbai, and the Mariott in Pune :) Got my first view of her on the road, being driven by someone else, and it was such a sight - all the mean muscle barelling down, the huge roar of the engine making everyone look out! Awesome!
Today, she had her first "accident" - at the Ratna Hospital traffic signal, an i10 nudged her from behind. Thankfully, she didn't get even a scratch!
She also got her own Team BHP sticker today.
Hopefully, over the next week, she'll have her spoiler, roof rack and ladder. And have her DVD drop down screen fixed too. Her floor mats have already been installed, and the chiller is on board too!
Monday, May 17, 2010
Joke For The Day
High class blonde is walking along the lake shore, sees a crocodile, and screams, "Hey, Lacoste!"
That's the Spirit!
Something very mesmerising about this picture. Saw this old lady on the bike with her grandson, they overtook us, then took on the other Endy in front of us. That's the spirit!
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Toyota Corolla Altis Test Drive
Took a test drive of the Toyota Corolla Altis yesterday. Pretty good interiors, wooden and leather finish to the steering (slippery?), leather seats, climate control, cruise mode, multi-function display with controls on the steering, and pretty spacious too.
External looks are good too, pretty clean lines, with jutting lights, the champagne color looked awesome in the late evening light.
The driving experience was a disappointment though :( While it's OK for in-city economy driving, a power driver will come back thoroughly disappointed. Forget squealing tires, the take off is poor, highway performance seriously hampered by a wierdly ineffective AT, with 4 (yes, 4, not 5) gears.
And to make matters worse, there was a very disgruntled Altis owner at the showroom, pleading with the dealer to take his new car back, and warning me to stay away. Signs?
External looks are good too, pretty clean lines, with jutting lights, the champagne color looked awesome in the late evening light.
The driving experience was a disappointment though :( While it's OK for in-city economy driving, a power driver will come back thoroughly disappointed. Forget squealing tires, the take off is poor, highway performance seriously hampered by a wierdly ineffective AT, with 4 (yes, 4, not 5) gears.
And to make matters worse, there was a very disgruntled Altis owner at the showroom, pleading with the dealer to take his new car back, and warning me to stay away. Signs?
Movie Review: Badmash Company
Shahid wants to grow rich quickly, and in pre-liberalization India, there is a brilliant opportunity. Import thousands of pairs of foreign shoes, make it seem worthless, let customs put it up for auction, buy it back cheap and then sell it in the hungry market. But how do you make them look worthless? Simple. Get all the left shoes in one consignment, the right in another. Without each other, they are worthless. With each other, priceless.
With three of his cronies, this is one plan that's guaranteed to make them rich quickly.
When Manmohan Singh liberalizes the economy and cuts down import duties, their business is kaput. No problem, there are other equally brilliant ways to continue the game...
Shahid looks a little out of sorts after his other recent performances, Anushka looks hot but a little uncomfortable in her dialogues, the kissing scenes sizzle, the sound track flops, but overall, the movie is good entertainment value for the time spent.
With three of his cronies, this is one plan that's guaranteed to make them rich quickly.
When Manmohan Singh liberalizes the economy and cuts down import duties, their business is kaput. No problem, there are other equally brilliant ways to continue the game...
Shahid looks a little out of sorts after his other recent performances, Anushka looks hot but a little uncomfortable in her dialogues, the kissing scenes sizzle, the sound track flops, but overall, the movie is good entertainment value for the time spent.
Movie Review: Housefull
Delicious, mindless comedy - leave your hunger for sense at home, and just go laugh your heart out.
The girls look so good, every scene is a treatment for the senses :) Deepika sizzles, Lara looks great as usual. Jiah sets the screen on fire in her bikinis, and Jacqueline looks good in her item number. Akshay and Ritesh with their perfect timing, Boman as usual with his subtle mannerisms, and even Chunkey Pandey in a cameo role make you laugh your guts out. The quartet of Akshay, Deepika, Ritesh and Lara hit it out so well, you can see their comfort levels in every scene together. The end could have been better, but even then, all is well!
The sound track is average, but Papa Jag Jayega simply grows on you every time you hear it, with the visuals adding to the treat.
Overall, good weekend entertainment, best enjoyed in the theatre.
The girls look so good, every scene is a treatment for the senses :) Deepika sizzles, Lara looks great as usual. Jiah sets the screen on fire in her bikinis, and Jacqueline looks good in her item number. Akshay and Ritesh with their perfect timing, Boman as usual with his subtle mannerisms, and even Chunkey Pandey in a cameo role make you laugh your guts out. The quartet of Akshay, Deepika, Ritesh and Lara hit it out so well, you can see their comfort levels in every scene together. The end could have been better, but even then, all is well!
The sound track is average, but Papa Jag Jayega simply grows on you every time you hear it, with the visuals adding to the treat.
Overall, good weekend entertainment, best enjoyed in the theatre.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Endy Inti
Here are some pictures of the interiors of my Endy :)
I love the drivers seat! The steering is amazingly light, the AT is smooth and easy to operate, the only confusion comes from the reverse position of the light and wiper controls, as compared to my Fiesta and Ikon. I got the beige steering cover at a local accessories shop, and although the finish isn't that great, I love the fact that it matches so well! The sporty pedals look good. The fuel cap release button is thankfully not under the seat, and pretty conveniently located on the dash. Another switch helps control the brightness of the dash lights. Note: the black floor mats are temporary from a demo Fiesta, I just got the actual beige/carpet Endeavour mats today.
This is the view from the middle row. Notice the wood panelling - it's a mini drawer itself, great for hiding some cash or valuables The drop-down DVD screen for the middle and rear rows is still not powering up, need to get the wiring checked up.
Ignore the black mark on the in-dash screen - it's a problem with my camera lens!
Middle seats are comfortable, give sufficient leg and head room. Leather quality and finish is great too. Comfortably takes 3 adults.
Middle seats split 50-50, each can be folded to provide access to rear row.
In-dash provides a host of options including USB, Bluetooth, FM/MW/SW Radio, TV (but not connected in India), DVD, Telephone (via Bluetooth) and Sat Nav (MapMyIndia). Also doubles up as reverse camera.
Pretty sophisticated audio system, with myriad options and configurations
Mobile phone support is really extensive, providing audio as well as SMS interface. Ability to receive and make calls, access phone book, create/send and receive messages on the go is extremely convenient. Once hooked, you can also use the phone's memory to access and play audio on the car's speeakers.
And finally, here's the in-dash Sat Nav from MapMyIndia. I used the in-car unit before, so this was welcome. Does seem to have issues catching the satellites sometimes on cold start, but otherwise works perfectly fine. I do wonder how they will support map upgrades. I couldn't figure it out.
No pictures of the chiller yet. I also need to get the roof rack and headlamp guard installed.
Any comments on the rear ladder on the Endy? I kinda like it, but some others have told me it gives the Endy the look of a mini-bus What do you think?
I love the drivers seat! The steering is amazingly light, the AT is smooth and easy to operate, the only confusion comes from the reverse position of the light and wiper controls, as compared to my Fiesta and Ikon. I got the beige steering cover at a local accessories shop, and although the finish isn't that great, I love the fact that it matches so well! The sporty pedals look good. The fuel cap release button is thankfully not under the seat, and pretty conveniently located on the dash. Another switch helps control the brightness of the dash lights. Note: the black floor mats are temporary from a demo Fiesta, I just got the actual beige/carpet Endeavour mats today.
This is the view from the middle row. Notice the wood panelling - it's a mini drawer itself, great for hiding some cash or valuables The drop-down DVD screen for the middle and rear rows is still not powering up, need to get the wiring checked up.
Ignore the black mark on the in-dash screen - it's a problem with my camera lens!
Middle seats are comfortable, give sufficient leg and head room. Leather quality and finish is great too. Comfortably takes 3 adults.
Middle seats split 50-50, each can be folded to provide access to rear row.
In-dash provides a host of options including USB, Bluetooth, FM/MW/SW Radio, TV (but not connected in India), DVD, Telephone (via Bluetooth) and Sat Nav (MapMyIndia). Also doubles up as reverse camera.
Pretty sophisticated audio system, with myriad options and configurations
Mobile phone support is really extensive, providing audio as well as SMS interface. Ability to receive and make calls, access phone book, create/send and receive messages on the go is extremely convenient. Once hooked, you can also use the phone's memory to access and play audio on the car's speeakers.
And finally, here's the in-dash Sat Nav from MapMyIndia. I used the in-car unit before, so this was welcome. Does seem to have issues catching the satellites sometimes on cold start, but otherwise works perfectly fine. I do wonder how they will support map upgrades. I couldn't figure it out.
No pictures of the chiller yet. I also need to get the roof rack and headlamp guard installed.
Any comments on the rear ladder on the Endy? I kinda like it, but some others have told me it gives the Endy the look of a mini-bus What do you think?
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Team BHP
Team BHP is a pretty nice, professional and serious online forum for car lovers...
Here's my thread on the Endy at Team BHP: http://www.team-bhp.com/forum/test-drives-initial-ownership-reports/80669-my-ford-endeavour-3-0l-4x4.html
Here's my thread on the Endy at Team BHP: http://www.team-bhp.com/forum/test-drives-initial-ownership-reports/80669-my-ford-endeavour-3-0l-4x4.html
Saturday, May 08, 2010
Sherbaug
We went to this awesome nature theme park near Panchgani today, called Sherbaug. We didn't have too many expectations, but I must say, we came back very impressed and happy. Beautiful natural flora, a very innovative (though a little dangerous) water park, and an astounding fossil museum, along with a huge cactus garden make this a really exciting option for kids as well as adults. There's also an art gallery and a house of horror, along with a sweet lil restaurant. At 400/person, it seems a tad expensive, but trust me, it's totally worth it. Don't miss it if you are ever in the vicinity.
Hmmm Hmmm Hummer
Not impressed much actually... especially since it was parked right to my gleaming Samara. I'm sure it rocks off road, but it's definitely not a looker!
Samara Goes to Panchgani
We went to Panchgani today, Samara's first out-of-town trip after last week's quick romp to Lavasa. A full load, 5 adults and 2 kids, 250 kms. Expressway and ghat, on and off road. And she handled beautifully... safe and secure at high speeds, easy to manoeuvre and handle on the twists and turns of the ghat, and easy to get down and off road on the narrow roads of the hill stations.
And being able to play music from Madhavi's extensive collection on her cell, using Bluetooth, on the car's speakers meant freedom from having to change CDs for the entire journey :)
Here are some pictures...
And being able to play music from Madhavi's extensive collection on her cell, using Bluetooth, on the car's speakers meant freedom from having to change CDs for the entire journey :)
Here are some pictures...
Monday, May 03, 2010
Samara Gets A Bath
By the way, while her name's inspired by a friend I had way back in college, I just
found out it means "guardian" or "protected by god". Pretty cool :)
Sunday, May 02, 2010
Stress Test
Just took Samara for a stress test on the expressway. She hit 140 easily, and with a little coaxing, the speedo kissed 160. Ride quality, handling and steering was fantastic, though the thought of the massive beast hurtling down the road at that speed is pretty unnerving. Braking was good too, although she does needs a little longer runway to touchdown compared to my Fiesta. Use the breaks to rev the engine a bit before take-off and you can easily draw sketch paintings on the tarmac.
And while we're at it, I must say the sound system totally rocks - close your eyes and you could well be in a very sexy (and loud!) movie theatre!
And while we're at it, I must say the sound system totally rocks - close your eyes and you could well be in a very sexy (and loud!) movie theatre!
Saturday, May 01, 2010
Tips for Car Buyers
Pit one finance company against another, you can easily get the car loan rates down by 2-2.5%. Starting with 11.5, I managed to get 9.5 without much effort. Other areas of bargain include the processing fee and amount of coverage.
Pit one insurance company against another - again, I got 15K off, plus a 100% cover (no depreciation for plastics/glass etc). The insurance company might be able to pass on some additional discounts to you.
Make sure you carry your NCB from the earlier car. Since you can have only one car with the NCB, the insurance company might not allow you the NCB on the new car unless you sell off the older one. If you intend to keep the old car, you can move it to a thirt party only cover, and carry the NCB to the new (more expensive) car. If you plan to sell the old one off, you can then get the NCB applied to the new car by endorsing the insurance policy appropriately.
Understand and plan for the dependencies:
Insurance company needs car chasis and engine number to issue cover letter - make sure the dealer gives it on time
Finance company needs cover letter to issue disbursement - make sure the insurance company sends it
Dealer needs insurance cover note, and disbursement order to send vehicle for registration - make sure the finance and insurance company do their bit :)
Dealer needs registration, disbursement amount AND your balance/down-payment amount in the account to release car to you
Special Tip: If everything is ready, but you don't have the money in bank to do the down payment, try the credit card option! I did :)
Pit one insurance company against another - again, I got 15K off, plus a 100% cover (no depreciation for plastics/glass etc). The insurance company might be able to pass on some additional discounts to you.
Make sure you carry your NCB from the earlier car. Since you can have only one car with the NCB, the insurance company might not allow you the NCB on the new car unless you sell off the older one. If you intend to keep the old car, you can move it to a thirt party only cover, and carry the NCB to the new (more expensive) car. If you plan to sell the old one off, you can then get the NCB applied to the new car by endorsing the insurance policy appropriately.
Understand and plan for the dependencies:
Insurance company needs car chasis and engine number to issue cover letter - make sure the dealer gives it on time
Finance company needs cover letter to issue disbursement - make sure the insurance company sends it
Dealer needs insurance cover note, and disbursement order to send vehicle for registration - make sure the finance and insurance company do their bit :)
Dealer needs registration, disbursement amount AND your balance/down-payment amount in the account to release car to you
Special Tip: If everything is ready, but you don't have the money in bank to do the down payment, try the credit card option! I did :)
Endeavour 24 Hour Report
The Good
Looks fabulous, sexy presence on the road, a truly beautiful beast
Cruises fantastic, the diesel engine is absolutely noiseless
Awesome torque, ability to squeal tires
Takes off-road with unbelievable ease, given its size and weight
Beautiful behaviour on fast turns, fluid and smooth, securely rooted to the tarmac while swaying gently on the suspension
Sexy and comfortable interiors, truly a premium segment experience
The Not So Good
Suspension is jarry on bad roads at slow speeds, rear in uncomfortably jumpy on those sudden speed breakers
Roof-mounted DVD screen didn't power on, probably not fitted correctly (or I don't know how to make it wake up!)
The Small But Significant Things
Independent AC controls for all three rows, cooling is fast and effective
Wonderful media & entertainment system - rocking speakers
Integrated GPS and Navigation from MapMyIndia
Integrated Bluetooth, seamless access to phone's dialled/received/missed call list, automatic call reception
Rear view camera for parking is super convenient
Inadequate lighting for the front row, lights positioned towards middle row
The chiller is a wonderful accessory (although I have yet to receive it)
Light thrown up by rear view mirror assembly when opening door ensures you don't step into puddles, lovely feature!
Alti-theft nuts for tires also a good idea! (again, I am yet to receive them)
Looks fabulous, sexy presence on the road, a truly beautiful beast
Cruises fantastic, the diesel engine is absolutely noiseless
Awesome torque, ability to squeal tires
Takes off-road with unbelievable ease, given its size and weight
Beautiful behaviour on fast turns, fluid and smooth, securely rooted to the tarmac while swaying gently on the suspension
Sexy and comfortable interiors, truly a premium segment experience
The Not So Good
Suspension is jarry on bad roads at slow speeds, rear in uncomfortably jumpy on those sudden speed breakers
Roof-mounted DVD screen didn't power on, probably not fitted correctly (or I don't know how to make it wake up!)
The Small But Significant Things
Independent AC controls for all three rows, cooling is fast and effective
Wonderful media & entertainment system - rocking speakers
Integrated GPS and Navigation from MapMyIndia
Integrated Bluetooth, seamless access to phone's dialled/received/missed call list, automatic call reception
Rear view camera for parking is super convenient
Inadequate lighting for the front row, lights positioned towards middle row
The chiller is a wonderful accessory (although I have yet to receive it)
Light thrown up by rear view mirror assembly when opening door ensures you don't step into puddles, lovely feature!
Alti-theft nuts for tires also a good idea! (again, I am yet to receive them)
Lavasa
Visited Lavasa today, the planned and privately run city coming up along the banks of a man-made lake, some 40 kms from Pune. Looks like a good option to invest in, and definitely a lovely place for a weekend getaway. Some early pictures...
Samara
Got delivery of my super sexy Ford Endeavour 4x4 3L yesterday. Here are some exclusive pics...
We took a full load up the hill slopes off the road to Lavasa, enjoyed some heavy showers, and basically had a great time cruising the city streets... Needless to say, it's been a fantastic 20 hours so far, and we're just getting started!
ps: The picture doesn't bring out the depth/height of the hill slopes at all, will upload some more "revealing" pictures next time!
Oh, and yes, her name's Samara, the younger sister to Lisa and Reona.
We took a full load up the hill slopes off the road to Lavasa, enjoyed some heavy showers, and basically had a great time cruising the city streets... Needless to say, it's been a fantastic 20 hours so far, and we're just getting started!
ps: The picture doesn't bring out the depth/height of the hill slopes at all, will upload some more "revealing" pictures next time!
Oh, and yes, her name's Samara, the younger sister to Lisa and Reona.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)