Election Time…oops, Its Entertainment Time

I confess. The more I have been reading about the elections and the news, the more entertained I am. The media is equally to blame too I guess as they have been really sensationalizing the non-stop political drama like crazy. I am actually amazed to see how low Indian politics can actually go.

India is probably at the most crucial juncture with so much uncertainty all over the country which is in the midst of a recessionary cycle affecting the jobs and lives of millions. Just at a time when we really need a strong and honest government, it looks like we are getting ready to vote in the weakest leaders who will provide the worst governance ever after Independence.

Some of the more amusing things that have happened:

• Shoe throwing has suddenly become a sport (ask P.Chidamabaram, Jindal and Advani) - India's politicians are now so fearful of shoes being hurled at them that they have asked for more security and are erecting metal nets at rallies.
• Candidates declaring their wealth. Some of the candidates has really flabbergasted me (BSP candidate has just declared assets of 600 crores)
• Every party leader has to say something on the national news everyday
• Varun Gandhi saga – where do I even begin
• SP wanting to ban English and computers
• Karat who talks against corruption is joining hands with Mayawati and Jayalalitha who are the epitome of corruption in this country
• Budiya-Gudiya exchange between Modi and Priyanka
• Barrage of filmstars suddenly standing for elections – Does anyone really want Sanjay Dutt or Govinda to be a leader of the country?
• PM –Advani exchange – will you guys stop it already
• TDP’s free cash and TV schemes

We have only two parties at present in India with an all-India presence - the BJP and the Congress. Suddenly it looks like a 3-way race with a third front emerging. But we already know that the third front has no policy, except to oppose the Congress, BJP and America. History has already taught us a disastrous lesson when he third front came to power at the center the last time. Remember that It was during the third front experiment that we had 4 PMs in 4 years!! To make matters worse (or entertaining.. I don’t know the difference anymore), all of a sudden, there is talk of a fourth front comprising SP, LJP and RJD.
I am not against regional parties. I feel they have a role in our democracy - a regional role. At present, it looks like every regional party wants to be a national party and every regional leader suddenly has become a horse trader. Armed with just 5-6 seats, they are becoming or trying to be the king-makers. Even for getting admission into an ordinary MBA institute, we have debates and group discussions, but sadly when it comes to our leaders, there seems to be absolutely no criteria at all. Anyone and everyone can be a leader in India (criminals are welcome as well)
The only way Indian can build on the momentum it has seen in the last 4-5 years is if and only if a single party is elected with majority at the center. Exactly what will happen when India’s 714 million eligible voters head to the polls in the world’s biggest exercise in democracy is difficult to forecast, this year even more than in the past as it looks like the next government will pretty much be stitched together only after the results are announced. But it is sadder to see every other self proclaimed leader making a mockery of the entire country.

Only in India…Democrazy is FAR the people (before polls), BUY the people (during polls) and OFF the people (after polls).

24 - Simply Superb!!

What else can I say? After watching 18 episodes of Season 7, I am already ready to give my verdict to Jack Bauer and the rest of the 24 crew even before the season ends. Simply Superb guys!!

This season has been THE season to watch and it has so far outdone all its predecessors easily. Every episode has so many twists and turns with the right mix of action and suspense. The drama has consistently increased every single week and easily keeps you on edge wondering what will happen next. One of the other striking factors this season I loved, different from the previous ones, is that the story has been really built and revolves around the entire cast of 24 and not just Jack. Heck, Jack was even made to sit out a couple of episodes when Tony and Larry took over all the action and spotlight. But having Jack out of the field, was a good change of pace and refreshing.

While we have had to bid adieu to many lovable characters, Tony killing Larry was a bit disturbing to me (undoubtedly the most shocking twists of the season so far) as I always thought Tony is one of the good guys and was also really hoping Larry would be back the next season. With Larry gone, a Jack and Renee hookup seems inevitable (since she is already confirmed in Season 8 set in New York). As of now, it looks like a Jack and Tony showdown all the way to the end, unless something changes next episode (Which I am sure it will:) It is also interesting to see Jacks daughter back, but the father-daughter relationship probably won’t create much interest this time as I think the sole purpose of bringing her back is to save Jacks life. (Since season 8 has already been confirmed). There are still tons of questions which am sure will be answered in the coming episodes. But as of now, the writers and Kiefer Sutherland got us exactly where they want us.. Totally hooked and wanting for more.

This season is a phenomenal comeback for 24. (The ratings speak for themselves)