The Referee From Hell – How Valentin Ivanov Screwed Up.
Portugal v/s Netherlands, World Cup 2006 Second Round Match. Referee: Valentin Ivanov, of Russia, taking place at Nurnberg.
The game started off decently. The first half was goal filled, well because it had the only goal of the game, a good strike from Maniche. But it ended with an ominous sign - the sending off of Costinha, by the Russian referee, for a second yellow card. It was a fair decision to a particular extent, but could have gone the other way too. Apart from the goal and the sending off, the other point of note was the piece of magic conjured by Arsenal's Van Persie on the right flank, but he spoilt it with a careless miss. All in all, I did not know what to expect in the second half.
Before I move to the 2nd half details, let me get this clear. I am a Brazilian supporter, but for this match I was supporting Netherlands because of Arsenal’s Van Persie and because well Portugal would pose a greater threat to Brazil if they went through. So, anyway the point is I was supporting Holland.
The score line was definitely frustrating. 1-0 at half time, damn! The second half though looked more promising for the Dutch. With an extra man, they were dominating possession. Then, Cocu agonizingly struck the bar. Kuyt missed a few more chances, and some dismal shooting from Van Bommel got me even more infuriated. Then, enter Ref. Ivanov. This Ivanov dude has some mental problem definitely. He seemed to be drawing pure sadistic pleasure from yellow and red cards. He seemed to be refereeing without the slightest implementation of logic and common sense. All in all, Mr Ivanov ended up giving a modest total of 20 cards, 16 yellow and 4 red. Freak. All through the game it seemed as though he wanted to steal the limelight, and it seemed as though he felt self-righteous for every single booking he made. Quite frankly it was insane. Some were deserved, but many were not. By issuing so many bookings, this clearly stupid referee fuelled the adrenalin of the players, leading to many silly tussles. This led to more bookings, and well more pleasure for our Russian referee. Injuries, bookings and fights constituted most of the second half in addition to the almost rare fast-paced football of the two teams. Netherlands came close many a time, but remained unable to unlock the Portuguese defense. Anyway, despite the wastage of so much time, the referee felt that only 6 minutes needed to be added on. It should have clearly been at least 8 or 9.
It was an extremely frustrating and enjoyable evening for me, and for many other football lovers. A bad referee, coupled with lovely football and a flurry of bookings, it kept me glued to every single piece of action. It had everything, but maybe a few more goals would have made it better. Any how, these ambivalent emotions depict the unpredictability and well, the beauty of football. You just don't know what is going to happen next. Yes it was entertaining, thanks to the referee, but hell it was damaging for both the sides.
This world cup has been a very controversial when it comes to referees. The reputed Graham Poll surprisingly gave 3 yellow cards to a Serbia & Montenegro player, which was pretty hilarious, but totally unbelievable, coming from such a revered English referee. Also, the referee of England's first game against Paraguay was a pain in the ass. Marco Rodriguez, the Mexican referee spoiled the game, according to me, by giving unnecessary free-kicks, interrupting the flow of the game. On the other hand, some referees have been exceptional. They have stayed low key, and allowed free-flowing football. That's how it should be.
All in all, the 2006 World Cup is turning out to be a truly entertaining spectacle; living up to it's expectations and enthralling millions of people worldwide, with some of the most unbelievable goals. Let's hope the rest of the matches live up to their billing too, and let us all hope that Brazil lift the crown for a record 6th time, and let us all also hope that stupid referees don't spoil any of the remaining games.
24
24 took me by storm. It was during my examinations, I think it was the Math weekend, when I was feeling quite bored and was quite fed up of academics. So, well, I thought of watching the 1st episode of this award-wining series, and find out what all the fuss was about. It took me precisely 5 minutes to know that I am going to be addicted to 24. I watched 4 episodes that night, and only stopped because; well I had only 4 episodes.
Anyone who has not seen 24 is a fool. I was one too, until recently. You don't know what you are missing. 24 has everything from a twisted, mind-boggling plot, accompanied by realistic acting, to the most creative concepts ever.
"The following takes place between 12:00am and 1:00am on the day of the California Election Primary. Events occur in real time" - that’s how each episode starts. Each season has 24 episodes, one hour each, which trace the events occurring in Jack Bower's life as a CTU agent. Convoluted, and filled with a million twists, with breath-taking shots, and highly realistic occurrences, 24 will blow you away and quite honestly, I have not see any video production better than this, and guess what I am not even through seeing the first season yet. Even though it has a very improbable story line, it is very realistically made and it has the ability to transfer you into the eyes of the protagonist, and you, the observer, are the only one who knows everything that's happening.
It's fascinating and a must see. I just had to rave about it. It's so good, that there will probably be a Bollywood take on it, and as usual they will screw it up. Let me make it clear, 24 outclass every single Bollywood & Indian Television production, and highlights the superiority of Western entertainment as opposed to the inferiority of the Indian television industry. Hats off to Paul Gadd (producer), Robin Chamberlin, Richard Rosser and Nicole Burke (directors) on a truly marvelous production.
Bored At School 2
Remember Ms Ohri, well she is here right now. Wailing, crying, and hitting the innocent me. Apparently it's all for her sister - "What would I do without her?" Well it kind off reminded me of my sister. She's in Spain, living a fruitful life, and exploring the beauty of simplicity, with the aim to be a part of the elite few Indians who are well versed in Spanish, which is probably the fastest growing language in the world. The maker of 'Griddskipper' - one of the most popular travel websites in the world - has approached her to write for his website, and her 1st post is already up. Her blog is now Latino flavoured, with constant updates on the Spanish and salsa. Worth a visit! Hats off and good luck to her.
Coming back to the School IT center, the Head Boy and the Head Girl have now entered the IT center. Hmm...interesting. A few wonder couple sparks seem to have been flying. ;-)
We are going to meet the school alumuni, and get a little bored. I am really tired. Haven't really got any sleep for the past 24 hours.
Yes recently, my blog posts have been a little random with less substance and more well, 'masti', or non-sense. But do expect something a little more exciting in the future.
P.S. - This post was started in the school IT center. I was not able to finish and publish it then. That is the reason why I am publishing it now.
Exams & Prize Day
Exams around the corner, and as my recent trend has been - I can't really get myself to study for them. Here's the problem - too many things are happening, and believe me, that's hell for an idealist.
One thing that has now been pushed out of the way, is Prize Day 2005-06. A less complicated build-up leading to a glitch-filled, but fun day, this years Prize Day had it's ups and downs. One 'up' was that atleast it was better than last years. However, certain misnomers, and certain exaggerations were made. From an abnormally large 'Grade 1B' student, to blatant ignorance of "Manity Fair", the day did leave a few unsatisfied. Anger at certain accalades, mixed with pure joy for the well deserved 'Best Teachers', it was an ambivalent day, only promising a very entertaining tomorrow - hopefully. BTW, Shri - you are free to vent here. On the whole, it was a good day. With live entertainment for the choir boys in the classrooms, the re-arrival of a 'rocking' ex-student, we, or rather most of us, did get our share of the laughs. But most importantly, I was especially happy for the due recognition that was given to a certain few, namely the Best Sportsman, and the Sherley-Varkey-Award winner. Also hearty congratulations to all you 'prize' winners - great job with your academics. For all those ex-students who could have been there today, you have certainly missed a good opportunity to meet all the teachers, and join the school in an eventful and fun evening.
However, today was a prime example of how academics rules Indian schools, and don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong about that. But I don't want to argue too much now. All I have to say is that, maybe a little more emphasis could be given to extra-curriculars. But then again who am I to say so? - Maybe enough recognition is already given.
A Day For Geniuses
In this post, my definition of a 'genius' might be totally wrong. So for this post's sake, envision a 'genius' as a person who just blows you away with a moment of pure brilliance. You can see it - his soul is in what he is doing, and the energy and passion is oozing out. He is at his best. To me this is refreshing and fascinating, and it is something that my permeable self takes in with sincere pleasure and appreciation. Today a certain selected group of random people left me smiling and well, quite honestly, spellbound. Hats off to them.
My favourite guitarist, Ali (yeah I know my belief is to prevent revelation of real names, but this is for true appreciation) was the first one to cast his magic on me. Our school hosted an internal, low scale "Battle Of The Bands", which should have been called "Battle Between The Bands", because there were only two bands, both comprising what one would call 'amateurs' or 'juniors'. Both of them were, quite frankly, lousy. No 'brilliance' there, but potential - yeah, loads. Anyway this not-so-fascinating show got over quickly, leaving me quite bemused, especially because of one farsical cover of a famous Queen song. So, where does "Ali" come in? After this average performance, Rohan, 'the-you're-fat-you-suck' sayer, begged the 'School Band' to perform. Enter Ali. Unaware of what to play, with no real preparation, the 'School Band' decided to show-off with a 'jam' session. Almost shocked by this sudden compulsion, Ali, stepped in. The rythem, as in the easy part, began, and Ali asked Rohan, the bassist, "Which key you playing on?"
"A," was the reply. And then lead guitarist, Ali, unleashed an improvised solo, feeling every note he played, putting on no fake show, but releasing a natural flow of energy and music which only comes when someone 'good' is perforiming, a real performer. Yes, you may argue, there are many people in the world who can do that, but to me that moment was one of pure joy. The wonderous feeling you get when some one good does something classic and leaves behind 'oohs' and 'aahs', is rare. To me it was genius, he was, atleast for that moment (for all you debating freaks) a genius. He was a genius accompanied beautifully by an able drummer Udai, a confident rhythem guitarist Jitin and an enthusiastic and apt bassist, Rohan. Truly, bravo. I really enjoyed it.
Adding to add to this remarkable performance, was Harry, my very close friend. He hosted the "Battle Of The Bands", and it was a last-minute decision to make him the host. But his composure and delivery, mixed with this homely confidence thrilled me, and made me think - there we have it, the next great TV Host/News Reporter/Actor or definitely something in that field. A genius, not because he had done something amazing, but because of his confidence and because he gave off the feeling - I am in control of this, and I am good at what I do. It was just his presence, genuine and loving - oh I hope this potenital and talent is not wasted, and I hope that everything gets sorted out for him now and in the future.
This next instance is a more, well, maybe something you won't be able to relate to entirely. 1st session, in school, we were having our singing/music practice. The group song we were singing, 'Eagles' by Abba, went off decently. The 4 piece harmony, blended delightfully, and the literally 'rocking' track brought out a very decent sound. After that, the necessary people practised the 'Prayer Song', a more intricately composed song, with harmonies that blended even more beautifully. They put on a fairly pleasurable performance. But that nor the earlier song falls into my definition of 'genius'. In fact, this is where my definition of a 'genius' goes wrong. During those songs, there were two people working energetically at perfecting every single note. One was Mr Axel (no not 'Rose'). An extremely hard-working, maybe a little exploited, genius, whose love for music is like of no one else's I have seen. Once he loses himself in the music, he is transformed into this radioactive element that is constantly emitting energy in all directions. An amazing pianist who has a mastered the art of track-making, and the only person I know who totally understands music, he often leaves me awestruck. Today, what made me realize his 'genius' abilities was not his skill, but his passion and his joy of teaching and transferring music. That sir, is truly revered by me. The second of the two people is our very own Sharen ma'am. A principled woman, whose attitude is positive and right, mixed with a tinge of fun, she has a lovely voice. But what makes her different to me from all the other people who have lovely voices, is her passion and her love for what she does. This accompanied by her truly loving and caring nature makes her a 'genius' in her own way. Today, while practising the 'Prayer Song', she just let her self go, and her voice, boosted by her passion and skill, resonated in my ear, and once again left me smiling. Yes the day did involve a lot of smiling - which is my expression of 'wow', and well done.
I don't know what it is that's so amazing. No actually I do. Beyond just the skill, it's the passion, yes, it's the passion. That's the word that separates the 'geniuses' from the rest. That's what I want to appreciate today, because that is what most of us fail to do. We lack passion, and what's even worse is that we lack the ability to express our appreciation. We envy them instead of lauding them. Yes, it's natural to envy, every single person does, but it's how you raise yourself beyond that, and learn to appreciate things that deserved to be appreciated. It is then, that this envy automatically turns into honest appreciation for someone other than YOURSELF. And then follows, joy and satisfaction for you.
I have experienced this, and that's why I am saying it. That's my point, and this is how I felt it would come across best.
World Cup Fever
It grips everyone. Even if you hate 'the beautiful game', you will still follow the Football World Cup. It's magical how this unifying force, that is football, entrances the world with a spell that sinks right into the heart, and then the passion, the excitement, the energy, the devotion, all come out like gushing water bursting out from a shattered dam. The sheer emotion and euphoria when your team scores, and pure pain when your team loses is something that's priceless. To me football is purely sublime. Do you feel the same?
My team, - Arsenal all the way. Their fast-paced attacking football and thrilling one touch play has won my love. But as this is a World Cup post, let me not dwell too much on them - but just one thing - hell today will be one of my most memorable days yet, if they lift the coveted Champions League, and kick some Barca butt.
I got converted into a football fan after the 1998 World Cup. Brazil's samba made me a Brazilian Indian, atleast in the sphere of football. Well not really a glory supported, I have supported Brazil ever since 1998. 2002 was truly majestic. Even though Brazil were a little lack-lustre that year, they pulled through remarkably and captured their 5th crown. I love them. This year, unlike 2002, Brazil are the favourites. With pace, flair and 'attack' written all over, they will only lose in the World Cup because they are too darn good. I hope not, but thats the tendency. The favourites have too much pressure and that pulls them down. Ronaldinho and Adriano are going to be the stars of this World Cup, and its evident that no team can match Brazil's brilliance. But the World Cup is known for its twist, and I just hope that Brazil won't be a part of it.
Here are my predictions:- (well, also 'hopes')
WINNERS - BRAZIL
(Yeah the clear favourites, both on paper and gamewise, so don't argue. Whatever you could argue about, I have already put in my earlier synopsis)
BEST PLAYER - RONALDINHO
(Don't even argue about this one, ok maybe Henry might give him a little competition, but the Arsenal Maestro doesn't seem to know how to perform for his country)
GOLDEN BOOT - ADRIANO
(Yeah ok, fight on, this award is always a surprise)
SILVER BOOT - MICHAEL OWEN
(Yeah I know he is out of form and all, but I won't be surprised if he comes back with a bang - he is quality and one of the only players I like from England)
BEST COACH - LUIS FILLEPE SCOLARI
(I have a lot of respect for this man, especially for his great exploits with Brazil in 2002. Portugal are lucky to have him as their manager. But the all time best manager ever, according to me, still is Arsene Wenger)
BIGGEST SURPRISE - THEO WALCOTT
(If this guy shows his true potential of a wonder kid in this year's World Cup, I won't be happy for England, but boy I would be counting my beloved Arsenal's blessings.)
MOST PROMISING TEAM - IVORY COAST
(Eboue, Toure and Drogba might produce some magic, and there's a high possibility of them emulating 2002's South Korea)
BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT - GERMANY
(I know this sounds harsh, but I feel they don't have the props to make it big in this tournament, despite the home support. I therefore feel they will be the biggest disappointment of this World Cup)
THE TEAM I HATE THE MOST - ENGLAND
(Call me hypocritical, but I feel they are over-rated. They have never really 'performed', and their captain, Mr Becks, is especially frustrating)
MOST OVER-RATED PLAYER - RUUD VAN NISTELROOY
(Most of his goals are tap-ins. He is known for his silly, malicious attitude, and this World Cup he is going to be as frustrating. According to me, he's a born loser. Yeah he will score some dull goals this World Cup, but he will also prove how boring a footballer he is. Posh's Becks placed a close second for this award, by the way. Please feel free to differ)
You know what you need to do, you need to get gripped in this football frenzy. What do you feel? Who do you support? You can do the following to be heard:
1. Copy-paste the 'predictions' bit onto your comments, and give your predictions, with suitable reasons.
2. If that's too long and boring, just comment about your favourite team, or against anything you don't bloody with agree with on this post.
3. This you have to do. Create your own Fantasy World Cup team at http://fpli.premierleague.com/ and join this private league whose code is 14426-3932. Let your football wisdom unfold.
I hope you do atleast one of the above. Till later - blog on.
Keep up the football spirit and Brazil - kick some ass.
Blocked!
Ok, this has got nothing to do with MSN Messenger and my status on the list of my MSN buddies. It's just about a phase. Recently, my posts have been philosophical and commemorative in nature, but this one is a little more personal.
Have you ever reached a 'phase' in your life when you suddenly don't understand anything? Weird things happen. People who are really dear to you start frustrating you, and the funny thing is that you actually get frustrated. Indolence starts creeping in, and how much ever you want to change yourself, it doesn't happen. Weird. You start worrying about your future, your past, your responsibilities, your reputation, or in a nutshell - yourself. You worry, but you don't do anything, and that's where things go out of hand - you get blocked and stuck.
Don't get me wrong, my life does not suck. I am no hedonist. I believe problems and shortcomings are all a part of life. And life only gets better when you start to understand and correct them. But right now I am drowned with too many woes, which in no way should be mine. A lot of these woes have been transmitted from others, and have been created from self-construed conclusions and emotions, which ideally should not affect me. A lot of people have affected me to an extent that I am thoroughly perplexed. My thoughts have gone haywire. I worry too much. And the funny thing is that I know what my problem is - I have no control over my mind. And I also know the solution - Vipassana Meditation.
Ok, yeah, an unexpected solution, but hear me out. I am no ascetic nor a believer in any of these religious practices. But Vipassana is not a religios practice, in fact, it's a science. It is a proved science that teaches you to get control over your mind. My parents are ardent meditators, who practice Vipassana religiously (no pun intended), and the effect it has had on them is unbelievable. My dad, known for his extra-worrying-attitude (like mine), has benefited so much from it, that mentally and emotinally he has reached a self satisfying balance, which, especially for a doctor, is priceless.
What does Vipassana do? It imparts in you the powers of concentration, memory and self control. It preaches no religion and forces nothing upon you, but allows self purfication in an extremely logical and scientific way. It helps you to think more rationally and chase away all your extraneous fears and worries. All it asks for is diligence, and that is not easy. You have to read about Vipassana - http://www.dhamma.org/
This 'solution' has been laid down on a platter for me. Still, I am not making the most of it. Why?
That is what's worrying. I need to start focusing and working, and start studying! I need meditation, I need a peace of mind. It's easy to say but let's see if I actually start utilizing this solution? Because that's where I'm failing myself.
P.S - Apologies for a truly boring and self centered post, but sometimes your blog is a good place to vent.
My Mother
She is a working-wife. She is a house wife. She is a homeopathic doctor. She does most of the chores at home. She feeds us. She stimulates us. She binds us all together in a way that we are the strings of her guitar. Without her, we would almost fall apart. She keeps us fine tuned, and allows us to freely march into our own ambitions with little regard for anything else. Such little regard, that at times I feel I have disappointed her with my adamant harshness. She imbibes all our frustrations of school, work and play, and gives us the most amount of care. She doesn't abide with the Newton's 3rd law. She cares, and however we are with her, she will always continue to care. Every evening, when I come home tired and dead at 6:00 pm, my food is ready on the table. Every morning, she gets up at 5:40 am to make sure I get my school tiffin and my morning breakfast.
After all the hardwork at home, she has many achievements to be proud of. She is an ardent meditator who has done 3 Vipassana courses and has also travelled to Burma for her meditation. She has been in many news publications for her homeopathy, and on the 3rd of May, 2006 she was on the radio, on 99.3 Dubai FM. She is one of the most caring and supportive mothers ever, and I know that she will always be there for me, and for her entire family, like she always has.
It's just that I don't appreciate her efforts enough. So this is how I want to redeem myself.
"Dr.(Mrs) Deena Malpani, Mum, Wife - I salute you. We salute you." - Abha, Anish, Kishore.
The Past Few Weeks – The Greatest Lesson
The 'Past Few Weeks' saga came to an abrupt end. You see, there is this problem, called time, so many of the things that I wanted to write about did not actually make it up here. Fine. But this one is a must.
There comes a certain time in everyone's life (I guess) when reality dawns, and when we finally realise something so..well...DUH. This was just one thing, which I feel is the cause of all disappointment, cause of all problems, cause of all fights, cause of all hatred and well, everything else. This 'cause', I feel, is that we expect too much from people. Atleast I do, and as a matter of fact, quite frankly and unhaughtily, I should rephrase that too some of us expect too much from people. How many times have we heard people complaining 'he should have done that' or 'why is he late?'. Okay, yes expectations are required, otherwise this world would not function. Everybody expects, but the people who really suffer are who 'expect too much'. And I am one of them. It's not bad, actaully the intentions are all good, but it is harmful. Because when someone doesn't meet your expectations, you get disappointed, irritated, stressed and depressed. There is no need for that.
Be it your best friends, your girlfriend, your peers, your elders - everyone disappoints. It is not like they mean to, but then we get so troubled and demanding about everything, it just happens. The worst scenario is even when you talk to these people - and they still don't get it. It's so frustrating. You start thinking and speculating and wondering, and then the worst bit - you start to blame yourself. You don't feel like talking, you don't feel like doing anything for anyone, but then again you care. So you get even more perplexed, you feel like hitting your head against the wall, and then you try to do something about it instead - so you try to pick up the phone and call - But then again, you check yourself. STOP. No. How much can you say? That's when it hits you - stop it. Stop expecting so much. Continue to do what you want to, continue to try to meet other people's expectations, (not that it always happens - but I have realised it so I need to practice it as much as I can) continue caring and for once, putting other people before you - but without too many expectations.
I have somewhat started doing that and the feeling is awesome. If you haven't already realised, the most amount of joy is felt by us when we don't expect something and we get it. WOW! Think about it, I really don't know what you think - but to me, this holds a lot of reverence. As my Elvis puts it, reflect.
The past few weeks have taught me just that. It has come to me like a plate of food comes onto a wife-betrayer's face. But then again we need to question: How much do we expect from ourselves? Because we cannot not expect anything from ourselves, then we would end up no where. Again, reflect.
Robbie Williams In Dubai – The Aftermath
I am NOT gay - so don't judge. But...
Have any of your dreams come true? If they have, you will understand the pure euphoria that comes along with it. I had one such experience. After watching Robbie Williams blow everyone away at Live 8 with his mesmerising performance, and then watching him entertain 400,000 people at Knebworth on DVD, I felt that Robbie Williams would never come to Dubai, or that I would never be lucky enough to see him perform in his prime days.
But thanks to Midas Promotions, and Mr. Williams himself, this one dream of mine has come to life. It started with a hiccup as I mentioned in my earlier post, and ended with orgasmic joy at 10:50 pm on 21st April 2006.
Due to my absurdity, Billy, My-Favourite-Guitarist, Elvis, My-Best-Bald Friend and I reached Nad Al Shebha at 10:00 am (Gulf News got it wrong) for a show that would eventually begin only at 9:00 pm. We were the first few to reach there, and the most foolish ones because we didn't have front pit tickets. It was all my fault, so I apologize for it. But please note, for Robbie William's earlier concert in Pretoria, people had started lining up from 5:00 am - but then again I forgot, we lived in Dubai - the land of the pampered and the lazy.
Football, SAT study, and more football kept us occupied in a truly boring build up to the concert. The initial organisation was pretty poor, with no proper queues, and limited food arrangements. The queue fiasco was especially frustrating because our early arrival paid hardly any dividend. People like Ms. Ohri and Ms. Hussain got in at the same time as we did, even though they arrived 6 hours later. Anyway, it's cool - they are good company - :P.
Behind us in the queque, were these 4 Robbie fanatics. It was their third Robbie concert, and one of them had also been to Knebworth to watch him there. And, that my friends, is truly insane. Anyway, the night before the show, Robbie Williams was at 'Trilogy' - a bar in Dubai, and these groupies had met him there. Surprisingly he was a little rude to them - and they blamed it on the negative effects of money. But all I wanted to tell them was - hey, it's Robbie Williams - he must be high on alcohol or something, and hell, he has millions of 'No.1' fans - and he can't possibly be nice to everyone, especially after a high dosage of good old beer. Apparently he left the bar quited unhappy, his supposed last 2 words being - 'F*** that!'
The gates opened at 5:30 pm. The 7 and a 1/2 hours of waiting, which included Elvis' visit to the ambulance nearby because of his high fever, extreme heat and sheer restlessness, seemed worthwhile eventhough it didn't give us any real advantage. However these bulky self-obsessed, know-it-all, 'too-cool' bouncers committed a stupid error. They tried letting only one person go at time, one of 25000 people. Freaks. Obviously it didn't work, and luckily enough nobody assaulted them - but just pushed them aside instead. 25000 are definitely stronger then 2 bulky men.
It was then time for 'The Big Race'. Everyone sprinted to get as close as possible to the stage. Here's where fitness helps. We got the best standing area possible with our dhs. 195 tickets, and quite unexpectedly, it was pretty close to the stage.
Contrary to the external organisation, the internal arrnagements were excellent. However I pity the people with dhs 495, dhs 595 & dhs 695 tickets, because according to me those were not worth it. They were seated behind us, the cheapest ticket holders. And who the hell wants to sit down and watch Robbie perform?
An average DJ kept us going for some time, and then 3 and a half hours later, at 9:00 pm sharp, we witnessed magic. The lights went off, and on came the presentation on the big screen on the rear part of the stage. Breathtaking images of Robbie (more cool that 'hot') accompanied by entrancing sound effects, and heated firebolts made everyone hyper and eager. Finally, from beneath the stage, with streams of white smoke, emerged Robbie Williams in his long buttoned coat, cravat, jeans and sun-glasses, and our ears resonated with shrill cries of the crowd and then the beats of his first song that day - Radio. The crowd went offcially bezerk. We went offically bezerk. We were witnessing one of the greatest perfomerers ever. Rock DJ followed and that really got us going. Robbie played most of his hits, and kept us screaming continuously. His humour, his passion, his style, his talent and his charm came out with such ferocity that it left us incredulous to everything. It was like this mighty wave that crashed upon us, but instead of pushing us down, lifted us to such heights of ectasy that these moments would never be forgotten.
From his sexy camel pose, to deriding J.Lo, Robbie was pretty hilarious. It was a dual show - an amazing musical performance and a side-by-side stand-up comedy act. He imitated 'Jacko' and the great '106-years-old' Mick Jagger. His 'portrayal' of I Can't Get No Satisfaction along with a mockery of Mick Jagger's dance and voice was stomach-splitting. His Jenny From The Block 'emulation' (uhm..uhm) followed by a marvelous delivery of his modern-Shakespeare-like soliloquy added to a truly memorable night.
Robbie did screw up once - he messed up 'Ghosts' completely and also admitted it later - 'I scuffed it'. But that didn't really matter - he was totally awesome. The only downside of the whole concert was, quite frankly, the audience. We 'Dubaites' don't realise how lucky we are to see such great performers with such ease. The crowd wasn't bad, but it wasn't as frenetic as Robbie's usual fans - that I can tell from the many Robbie concerts I have seen before on DVD. There were many people who were there just for the hype. Anyway, everything can't be perfect.
The best permformances of the day were Kids and Let Me Entertain You. Kids is just a really good song, and the awesome,'brilliant' lights - as My Fave Guitarist puts it - made the song even more dynamic. But the best was when he really 'entertained' us. After the cliched act of saying 'Goodnight' and coming back onto stage, Robbie hit us with Let Me Entertain You. This is by far his best performance song. The magnificent lights, and the steamy firebolts, with a great background, one that Rubin and Mr James would be proud of, and the brilliance of the song itself made it the most exhilarating performance that I would probably ever witness.
At 10:50 pm the gig ended. Robbie made us 'feel' all the 'angels' above us, and 'made us pure'. Hopefully, I enthralled 'Ish' by carrying her on my back for Robbie's last song - 'Angels'. She seemed to have enjoyed it. However in the process she almost lost her shoe, and I almost broke some other female's knee.
Beside me, was a hysteric Billy, my Robbie buddy. He also equally enjoyed the concert. Actually, maybe a little more. For me it was orgasmic, for him, in his own words, it made him 'lose his virginity' - now you decide what's better? However hi
s desperate efforts to show Robbie his pretty poor poster went in vain, but then again that was just a little glitch.
Also, it was in it's own way a romantic night. Billy and Lem, Tejas and Ms. Ohri and the other couples who I don't know were together, and enjoying a great, moving performance by his highness, Mr Williams. How I wish she was here! But then again, that night left Lem thinking whether Billy loved her more or Robbie Williams? :P
No people Billy is not bi. And Lem, chill. :)
It hasn't sunk in yet. I am still incredulous towards the fact that I actually witnessed this magical performer live, right in front of my eyes. For all those people who didn't watch this concert, you have obviously missed a chance of a lifetime.
I would again like to highlight the sheer joy and memories a 1 hour 50 minute concert can give, so if any of you get any chance of seeing Robbie, or any other good performer for that matter, grab it with your hands, your feet, your stomach and everything else that is possible - because it is rare. You certainly missed this one, but I didn't. Now looking back, those 8 hours of waiting don't seem that boring.
In short - Robbie Williams rocked the hell outta Dubai.