I failed a test designed to distinguish between Chinese, Japanese, and Korean faces. Readers in the comments share specific physical markers, regional differences in Northern and Southern China, and the impact of globalization on East Asian phenotypes.

Can you tell the difference between Chinese, Japanese and Koreans? I tried a test. My report card read "Bad". Comments eastasian 30 Aug 2001 12:00 pm: acutally, im all three, japnese, chinese, korean... its funny b/c my dad's parents were chinese/japanese, while my mom parents were korean/chinese... and im all three, but i was born in japan... its confusing... but just so you know, eyes go like this... this is general... korean smallest eyes(ever), then comes japanese, then chinese... my mom has large eyes from chinese desendants and my dad has slit eyes b/c both parents had slit eyes... face, koreans have big round faces and eyes tend to be up top, japanese and chinese eyes are in the normal possition... koreans are tall b/c my korean reletives are all well above 6ft... japanese tend to be pretty tall but not as tall as koreans... chinese it depends... some are tall some are short especially the taiwanese and HK... and btw i think i konw which test your talking about i scored a 16/18... :D the ones i got wrong were both males... tangeee 16 Oct 2008 5:39 am: Hey I'm chinese but I LOVE everything about Japan/ Korea. I buy jap ingriedients to cook jap dishes, eat obento in school, always updating the cute stationary and study jap at school. I was wondering if the traditional Japanese breakfast consist of tea, miso soup, rice, salmon/fish and tofu. Usually for breakfast, that's what I have and I usually get up in the morning to cook scrambled tofu with salmon or carrot with tofu and soy sauce. Joe Swansan 3 Dec 2008 11:01 am: I believe one can differentiate between these three by looking at how at much their nose protrudes from their face. It is just a little theory of mine, but I have noticed that my Chinese friends have very small nose protrusions (sometimes in the negative!), while my jap friends have large ones. I am not exactly sure where the Korean people fit into this scale, but I will keep you guys posted if I make further progress. pos 30 May 2010 7:28 am: from my experiences and observations..i notice that chinese's eye are larger than korean and japanese...mostly the southern chinese has double eyelid...korean's eyes r the smallest...and mostly monoeyelid. But korean r definetely taller than chinese and the japanese ...japanese are darker..korean and chinese has lighter skin tone..but the sourthern chinese like from hong kong has darker skin tone. aznguy 12 Aug 2010 10:35 pm: I don't think there's a specific way to tell...if there was, there would have been a flowchart or a checklist you can find on the web for determining which nationality an East Asian might be. Being Korean, I can tell with some accuracy what nationality some random east asian is. It's mostly gut feeling, I think. From what I saw mostly, Chinese people have really wide faces (seriously, I have never seen a chinese person with a pointed/narrow face), Japanese guys have eyebrows that slope downwards. sukii 25 Sep 2010 4:04 am: this is my personal experince..korean and chinese has lighter skin tone than japanese... korean are the tallest.. taller than chinese and japanese but northern chinese are even tall... southern chinese are shorter .. if u go to japan..u will find that japanese are really short.. even their guy are short. chinese has more percentage (60%) of double eyelid because most southern chinese has double eyelid.. korean and japanese tend to have mongoloid eye with single eyelid.. no offense.. u will find a lot of japanese guys with weird face structure.. i dont know how to describe.. maybe its their eyebrow and eyes which make them look mean... but japanese do has higher nose bridge than korean and chinese. professorbill 18 Oct 2010 1:11 pm: I am afrom HK and my impression of the past (before 70's) for the 3 following nations and mostly about men and lesser in woman is as follow. Most Korean have large round or square face but tall and well built quite similar to Mogolian, Japanese are short, hairy, mild curly hairs with bushy eye brow. Chinese is a big race and so a distinct difference between far north and far south is quite noticeble. Northerner are fairer in complexion, much taller and boarder in built, southern are shorter and darker in complexion with skin complexion less fine and high cheek bone However, this impression of mine is all changed I get form the 70's and before. For the last 30-40 years, a much more universal diet combination, life style preference, going to the gym, fashion consiousness, education, western movie and culture, and to a certain extent cosmetic surgery plus plenty who resided in the west seem to have made of 3 of the nations becoming more and more difficult to be distingusih from each other. Defintely, evolution is at work and a lot of us could be wrongly mistaken for another nationality instead.I gathered that's what globalization has brought to all of us, at best you can only be truly identify by your DNA and no more by your physical look very soon. Jeff 19 Nov 2010 2:41 am: Koreans maybe tall or whatever, but Chinese will always have LONGER legs. dave 3 Feb 2011 7:35 am: I agree with professorbill. In the last few decades, it's gotten hard to tell who is from where. And in western countries, when the asians all adopt a western diet and exercise regiment.... But with extremes you can still tell. Also, fashion and hairstyles give a lot of info, especially in asia. In general Koreans are well-built. Even if you find some who are shorter than Chinese or Japanese (and there are a lot) the men still tend to be more muscular. This is in general, of course. marcMANIAC 1 Nov 2011 12:30 pm: more info: japanese= wider yet smaller lips(like americans) chinese= the lower lips tends to be bigger than the upper lips(most asians) korean= they have sincerely small mouth..like the tadpole(joke, i mean that's rite?) marcMANIAC 1 Nov 2011 12:24 pm: hurmm...its like this! i can actually tell the diferences between chinese japanese and korean quite well...i mean like its that hard?! here it is...quite frankly korean have high ''CHEEK BONE'' and ''FLATTER FACE''(especially i f you notice it from their nose stalk)..which ocassionally makes their eyes small and bit distance from the nose stalk! for japanese...they have more pointy nose and like any people(with pointy nose) they tend to have more visible nose..which makes it look ''BIG''! also japanese have a ''FLAT CHEEK BONE''....then makes curve between the eyes and the cheeks! chinese??...uhh they have those natural curve cheek bone!! definately if you would pass someone like japanese korean or chinese...then if she/he is a korean(no plastic surgery) then notice the very sharp and small eyes(yet it is longer)! if chinese...notice their cheek bone(that's the only way)...if she/he has a natural curve cheek(like many asians)...then it's the chinese! japanese...notice she/he tends to have a very oval n pretty much like americans' headshape(except for the extreme pointy nose of americans')!!!... vernon s khuzwayo 4 May 2012 11:23 am: i am a south african. from my very limited encounter with these races i have noticed that the japanese(atleast as i see them) tend to have wide faces especially around the sides, the cheek bones are more out. the chines on the other hand tend to have smaller noses. pin straight hair. and lighter skinned. i am mostly talking about women here as i am more interested in asian women(not indians).its a preference. i do have a question though: do chinese women own hair straighteners? their hair is never out of place and i like the funky look asian (not indians)women hava adopted its both cute and sexy. i would love to interact with some of you asian folks whether you be female or male. i am interested in japanese ,korean and chinese. want to know all about your countries and how you perceive the big world we live in. contact me on vernon.khuzwayo@gmail.com Andrew 23 Jun 2011 7:37 am: I don't think there's a fool-proof way you can tell one from another, unless they stand out like STAND OUT, know what I mean? All those guys who said that Koreans have small eyes and mono-eyelids, I have some pretty big eyes and natural double-eyelids, and I'm full South Korean. And there are plenty of short Korean people, I know that for sure. All these comments seem either stereotypical or misleading.. :/ Yahukio 3 Apr 2012 3:40 pm: This question ... absolutely Chinese ..(becase there are so much artificial people in Korea and Japan ) ..Believe it or not,someone in J and K really has a disgusting face. Facts 3 Oct 2012 4:48 pm: Here are some tips: Koreans in general are the tallest, pale skin, small eyes, Korean guys best built, friendly, fiesty and perhaps drink too much. Korean girls are fashionable, too obessed with beauty. Hot temper. Japanese in general shorter,pale to tan skin, small eyes, Japanese guys friendly, reserved, can be hairy. Some Japanese women are even piegon toed, don't know if this a medical condition, mild mannered. Fashionable, obessed with beauty. Chinese in general tall (Northern Chinese) perhaps due to mixture with Altaic speaking people like Koreans, Manchus,etc to shortest (Southern Chinese), larger eyes, fair skin to tan skin. Chinese guys too skinny, doesn't dress well and smoke too much. Perhaps due to economics. Hot tempered even ill mannered especially mainland Chinese, Love to gamble, Chinese women aren't as fashionable as Koreans or Japanese. Loud in public. Tiffany Cheng 18 Apr 2013 10:42 pm: I am Chinese from Indonesia, I have been traveled to several Asian countries and met several numbers of Asians from other Countries too. Here are my descriptions of the typical Chinese, Korean, and Japanese look. Chinese in the north are usually taller with single eyelids, sparse eyebrows, higher nose bridge, broader cheekbones and jaws, longer legs, and they have lighter skin colors. Chinese in the South are usually slightly shorter with double eyelids, thick eyebrows (I'm Southern Chinese with quite thick eyebrows), lower nose bridge, rounded cheekbones and jaw, and they have slightly darker skin colors. Koreans are usually taller with single eyelids, wide jaws, broad cheekbones, sparse eyebrows, higher nose bridge, lighter skin colors, longer legs, and somewhat wide lower lips. Since some Koreans undergone plasic surgeries, so the typical Korean faces are quite changed nowadays. Japanese are usually quite short in height with almond eyes, longer nose, lighter skin to medium dark, lower cheekbones, pointy jaw, thick eyebrows, somewhat hairy, shorter legs, and crooked teeth.

Chinese vs Japanese vs Koreans


I curated a collection of humorous Winston Churchill quotes that showcase his legendary wit and sharp political repartee. These examples highlight his quick-thinking responses and the distinctive style of his historical banter.

Funny Churchill quotes.

Churchill quotes


I found a CAIDA study featuring animations that visualize the rapid geographical spread of the 2001 Code Red virus. It provides a striking look at how the worm propagated across global networks during the outbreak.

This study has some nice animations on how the Code Red virus spread geographically.

Code Red virus spread animaton


I highlight Coimbatore's rise as a potential information technology hub in India. This resource explores the city's infrastructure and business environment, marking its transition into a strategic destination for software development and tech services.

Coimbatore: The next IT destination?

Coimbatore the next IT destination


I visited Coincidence Design and found it to be one of the creepiest websites I have ever encountered. If its claims are true, the site’s exploration of synchronicity and intentional design creates a deeply unsettling and eerie experience.

If it is to be believed, then coincidence design is the creepiest website I've ever visited.

Coincidence design


I highlight a resource explaining why coincidences are statistically inevitable rather than supernatural. It breaks down the mathematical probability of rare events occurring across large populations, illustrating why seemingly impossible 'miracles' are actually quite common.

Coincidences are common.

Coincidences are common


I highlight the limitations of machine translation by linking to classic examples of linguistic failures. These sources showcase why software often fails to capture context, resulting in the humorous errors frequently found on sites like Engrish.com.

This is why you should not use computers for translation. While you are at it, check out www.engrish.com.

Computer translations


Half of all internet surfing in 2001 occurred on just four platforms: Yahoo, AOL, Microsoft, and Napster. This brief look captures the early consolidation of web properties and the dominance of a few major corporate players.

50% of all Net surfing is done on the sites of Yahoo, AOL, Microsoft and Napster. There's consolidation of web properties for you!

Consolidation of web properties


I find Consulting Central’s ranking of consulting firms to be accurate based on my own experience inside the industry. It provides a snapshot of the professional services landscape and firm hierarchies in 2001.

Having seen a bit of it from the inside, I agree with Consulting Central's ranking of consulting companies.

Consulting Central ranking


India's Convergence Bill has been approved, signaling a significant shift in telecommunications and broadcasting regulation by consolidating oversight for diverse communication services under a single regulatory framework to address modern digital integration.

The Convergence Bill has finally been approved.

Convergence Bill


I highlight Cool Site of the Day and other early 2001 web discovery tools recommended by Google, including Netscape's "new and cool," USA Today’s hot sites, and the Glassdog directory for finding interesting content online.

Cool Site of the Day: another way to learn about interesting sites. Google recommends Netscape's new and cool, USA Today hot sites, The Internet Tourbus, and the Glassdog.

Cool Site of the Day


I found the US Copyright Office's search engine for searching public records and registrations. This tool allows you to look up copyright status and official documentation directly through the Library of Congress online database.

The US Copyright office has come up with a Copyright search engine.

Copyright search engine


I recommend Corante for its ability to filter and curate tech news. It serves as a focused resource for staying updated on industry developments without the noise typical of broader news aggregators.

Corante filters tech news.

Corante


I found an excellent NASA tutorial covering the fundamental concepts of cosmology, including the expansion of the universe, the Big Bang theory, and the cosmic microwave background radiation. It's a great resource for learning space science.

An excellent tutorial on cosmology from NASA.

Cosmology


I found several practical online courses on digital photography at ShortCourses.com. These guides cover digital camera basics, lenses, exposure, and lighting to help beginners master their equipment and improve their photo quality.

Several useful courses on digital photography.

Courses on digital photography


I shared a link to CourtesyFlush, a humorous resource for mastering bathroom etiquette and shared restroom manners. It provides tongue-in-cheek guidance on maintaining social standards and proper hygiene in delicate situations through essential flushing tips.

Learn courtesy at CourtesyFlush.

CourtesyFlush


I found that CP/M, the legendary operating system for early microcomputers, has finally been released as open source. You can now download and explore the code for this historic software from the main resource site.

CP/M, the ancient OS has gone open source.

CPM


I compiled a list of recommended sites for finding software cracks, serials, and keygens, featuring classic repositories like Astalavista, WT Cracks, and FOSI. These resources were shared to help users bypass software protection and banner ads.

Some sites with good cracks, thanks to Alok: astalavista.box.sk, wtcracks.com, kickme.to/FOSI, bannerkillers.cjb.net, and start.at/these.urls.first

Crack sites


MIT students wrote a tiny seven-line program to unscramble protected DVDs, sparking a landmark legal debate over whether source code should be legally protected as a form of freedom of expression.

Two MIT students have written a 7-line program that unscrambles protected DVDs. It's downloadable. The legal issue is whether source code deserves protection on par with freedom of expression.

Cracking DVDs


I received the 'Craig is ill' chain letter today, a classic piece of early internet lore. It highlights the viral nature of email hoaxes and the persistence of digital urban legends in my inbox.

I got a "Craig is ill" letter today.

Craig is ill


Convert documents into PDF files directly in your browser using Adobe's web-based service. This online tool allows for quick file creation without needing to install additional software on your local machine.

Adobe lets you create PDF files on the Web without using any software.

Create PDF files online


Review historical reports on significant hacking incidents, including the high-profile theft of credit card information from prominent figures such as Bill Gates, George Soros, and Yoshiro Mori.

The greatest hacks ever. And now, credit cards stolen from Bill Gates, George Soros and Yoshiro Mori.

Credit cards stolen from big shots


I met Cybelle, a virtual assistant on AgentLand that guides users through the site. She represents a novel, conversational approach to search engines, using a digital persona to help navigate information through direct interaction.

Cybelle lives in AgentLand. She's 100% virtual (having admitted it, she asked if I was disappointed), and guides people through their site. It's a new and interesting way of having a search engine on a site.

Cybelle in Agentland


I am exploring the geography of the Internet through this archive of network maps and spatial data. It visualizes how digital infrastructure connects physical locations across the globe through unique cartographic techniques.

Cybergeography: the geography of the Internet.

Cybergeography


I received a notice from GeoCities that my website exceeded its 3GB monthly data transfer limit. My site was temporarily disabled due to high traffic, leaving me to wonder what exactly caused such a sudden spike in popularity.

I wonder what caused this... From: civics@geocities.com\ Subject: Your Data Transfer Status Congratulations, your website seems to be very popular and has been receiving a large amount of traffic. Our records indicate that you're using more than the allotted amount of data transfer we provide for a free web site, which is 3 gigabytes per month (measured on an hourly basis). That means that during the past few days we had to temporarily turn your site off to keep the bandwidth within this limit.

Data transfer status exceeded


I compiled a list of early Indian dating sites like Bachelors India, Yahoo India dating, and Bharatplanet to help someone find local connections. This collection captures the landscape of digital matchmaking in India circa 2001.

Someone wanted to know dating sites in India. Bachelors India, India dating, Bharatplanet singles, Yahoo India dating, Dating club, Singles India and Dhak dhak. Comments dhanaji sutar 24 Jul 2001 12:00 pm: It is a good idea to have absolute indian dating site managed from India.

Dating sites in India


I’ve shared a link to Dave’s extensive Disney art collection, which showcases a wide variety of animation cells and memorabilia. It’s a nostalgic look at classic character designs and collectible pieces from Disney's storied history.

Dave collects Disney art.

Dave collects Disney art


I discovered and enjoyed using Daypop, a search engine that ranked my personal site at the very top for an "Anand" search. It was a useful tool for tracking what was currently popular on the web.

I like daypop. It threw up my site right on top when I searched for "Anand" :-)

daypop


I shared a link to H.L. Mencken’s version of the Declaration of Independence written in the American vernacular. It translates the formal text into the colloquial slang of the early 20th century, highlighting the distinct evolution of American English.

The American declaration of independence in American.

Declaration of Independence in American


I'm noting that a California court ruled the distribution of DeCSS is protected speech. This preliminary decision suggests that DVD decryption code may be legally shared despite trade secret and DMCA challenges regarding copy protection.

Preliminary indications are good. DeCSS is legal (so far.)

DeCSS is legal


I’m reflecting on DeCSS losing its legal case, marking a significant milestone for strong copyright protection. This outcome underscores the legal challenges surrounding DVD decryption software and the expanding influence of the DMCA on digital media.

Oops. DeCSS lost the case. Welcome to the world of strong copyright protection.

DeCSS lost the case


I found it incredible how children in Delhi's slums taught themselves to use the internet through the 'Hole in the Wall' project, showcasing the power of self-directed learning and unsupervised access to technology.

Just leave a computer connected to the Internet near the slums of Delhi, and it's incredible what the children there do with it! (More at India: Hole in the Wall)

Delhi children learn computing by themselves


I overlooked the potential for digitally certified video conferences while developing our business plan, despite prioritizing professional insurance. This niche security application provides a specific way to verify remote meetings that I hadn't originally anticipated.

This is something I hadn't thought of when we wrote our business plan. Digitally certified video-conferences. But we did think of insuring ourselves.

Digitally certified video conferences


I walked from Churchgate to Chowpatti for a budget-friendly dinner at Crystal. I enjoyed their malai kofta and alu parathas, finding the food incredibly filling and affordable for a well-known local Mumbai spot.

Crystal is opposite to Chowpatti beach. I didn't know that, so when Bhura suggested we take a cab there from Churchgate, I boldly said, "Let's walk down the beach." It's not that long a walk, but longer than I'm normally used to. At the end of the walk, I nearly collapsed. Crystal is apparantly pretty famous for its value-for-money. We ordered 2 alu parathas with malai kofta and paneer masala and dahi. The food was quite tasty, but filling. Neither of us had space for many more rotis. The bill came to about Rs. 100.

Dinner at Crystal


I visited Food Inn in Mumbai and found ourselves the only diners surrounded by four strangely synchronized waiters. We joked it was a mafia meeting spot, but the suspicious atmosphere made us finish our North Indian meal quickly.

After having been stood up on a dinner engagement, Amitabh and I walked from Regal to Food Inn, which looked fine from outside. We decided to have dinner in the AC section upstairs. I didn't notice anything, until Amitabh wondered: "Anand, why is it that there's no one in this whole place except us?" Well, there were, actually. 4 waiters, all standing with their backs to the same wall, with a tray in the hands, equidistant from each other. Looked like those thugs in movies who'd move away from the wall at the villain's orders, and say, "Yes Boss!" Our hypothesis was that the place was run by the Mumbai mafia, and was the meeting point for the shady deals in the city. It struck me as a fabulous idea, and I started writing it down. Only to notice a waiter peering at me. And then another. And yet another. To the innocent, it may appear that they gathered to take our order (which, incidentally, they did). Neither Amitabh nor I could be considered 'innocent' in any sense of the word, though. We quickly ordered (Amitabh mustering enough courage to crib that the dishes were being served too fast), and left, before the mafia arrived. Nothing much to comment on the cuisine. The standard North Indian menu.

Dinner at Food Inn


I visited Indian Summer in Mumbai and highly recommend their Shahi shorba and methi tikki. Despite some service confusion, the meal was excellent, and I learned the proper etiquette for eating soup by moving the spoon away from myself.

Vishnu and I tried out Indian Summer, opposite to Gaylord. It looked like one of those 'classier' places, so I wasn't expecting the meal to be any good. The variety was impressive though, so sticking to my policy of ordering dishes I never had, we tried Shahi shorba (soup), methi tikki and simla mirch besan ke sath, with makai roti and reshmi paratha. For Rs. 550. I recommend every single dish -- especially the soup. The service was good, too, and I'd rate it as excellent, except for the fact that the waiter walked up to us and asked us if we'd ordered Shahi Shorba. True to my form, I stared at him cluelessly, looked around, and said, "Who me?" The poor waiter was understandably embarrassed. He walked to the next table to confirm that they hadn't ordered it. They hadn't. He walked back, and in the middle of all this walking up and down, almost spilt a bit of soup on Vishnu. Then he comes back, after checking the register, informing us that we had, indeed, ordered Shahi shorba. Fine by me... The good part is, now I know how to drink soup -- move the spoon away from yourself when collecting the soup on the spoon. Thanks, Vishnu! Comments The knife 26 Feb 2007 2:47 pm: wiow! you are such a cool dude bro..for embarrasiing someone who did not have the classy upbringing you had... S Anand 26 Feb 2007 2:56 pm: Oh, you misunderstood. I had honestly forgotten what I'd ordered. That's quite typical of me, and that's what I meant by "true to my form". The joke's on me, if anyone.

Dinner at Indian Summer


I recommended Dipti Kamath's refreshing personal website in 2001. Since then, the post has unexpectedly transformed into a public archive where old acquaintances use the comment section to search for her and attempt to reconnect after many years.

A refreshing personal website by Dipti Kamath. Comments JAY 17 Jan 2007 1:42 pm: Dear Dipti, am Jay, do u remmember, we met in 2001.where r u? I have been searching for you all over.. UR WEBSITE IS NOW NOW MORE.. cud u plz provide me ur email id, I Wanna know how are things going with u, cud we meet some day? plz mail me at je\777@mail.com I wanan tell u somany things... JAY 17 Jan 2007 1:45 pm: dear Anand, sorry yaar wrongly posted comments to Dipti, cud u help me find Dipti Kamath?? Pl mail me at je\777@mail.com m.balasubramanian 29 Dec 2008 8:00 am: HI DIPTI,\ we were never destined to meet,I guess otherwise i am still waiting fr u dips.dear.bye

Dipti Kamath


I found a curated list of discounts and deals available in Bangalore through 123india, including offers like a US Pizza party pack for Rs 111. It highlights local savings on food and retail throughout the city.

123india has a list of discounts in Bangalore. For example, US Pizza has a party pack Rs 111.

Discounts in Bangalore


I found a $30 disposable mobile phone from Hop-On that offers 60 minutes for outbound calls. It’s perfect for my minimalist needs, though unfortunately, it isn't available in India yet.

A disposable mobile phone is just the sort I want. At $30 for 60 min, and only outbound calls, it's perfect for my use. So far, it's not coming to India though.

Disposable mobile phone


I installed the DivX codec on my laptop, enabling me to watch compressed MPEG-4 movies. This utility was a significant addition for portable media playback, allowing high-quality video viewing without heavy storage requirements.

Now I can watch DivX movies on my laptop.

DivX codec


I’m sharing a warning from Yahoo about spam: never reply with "Remove me from the mailing list." Doing so only confirms your email address is active, which likely leads to even more unwanted messages in your inbox.

A warning from Yahoo not to reply to spam saying "Remove me from the mailing list".

Do not reply to spam


Register domain names in various Indian languages using services like Vishwabharat and Lead Networks, enabling localized web addresses and improved digital accessibility for non-English speakers across the Indian subcontinent.

Vishwabharat and Lead Networks let you register domain names in Indian Languages.

Domain names in Indian languages


I criticize the RIAA for deploying Denial of Service attacks against Gnutella and other peer-to-peer networks. They are resorting to aggressive tactics instead of adapting to the fundamental shifts in how the world shares digital media.

Shame on the RIAA! Now they're trying DoS attacks on Gnutella, etc. Can't they realise the world has changed?

DoS attacks


I reflect on the decline of legacy technologies in late 2001, noting the end of the MS-DOS era and the potential downfall of the AltaVista search engine as the web landscape shifts toward newer standards.

DOS is dead. Is Altavista dying too?

DOS is dead


I visited Dosa Diner in Mumbai, enjoying idiappam and rava dosa for about Rs. 300. While discussing entropy and free will, I found the restaurant's former-discotheque green tunnel entrance more memorable than the varied South Indian menu.

Sumit & I had dinner at Dosa Diner. I was fairly absorbed in a discussion relating entropy, evolution and free will, hence did not pay much attention to the place or the menu. But what remains fresh in my mind is the long green tunnel you walk through to get to the place. It used to be a discotheque earlier, and the tunnel had been painted black completely. At least its brighter now, but green is almost as discotheque as black if you ask me. But then, at least I don't wear black nailpolish (as opposed to green ;-) The place was spacious and well lit. Considering that they served only south Indian, the variety was surprisingly good. We tried idiappam, a rava dosa with 'mushroom masala', and sheera. Tasted quite good, and came out to around Rs. 300.

Dosa Diner


I'm following DotComDoom.com to track the ongoing collapse of internet companies. The site serves as a central hub for news links documenting startup failures and massive layoffs during the peak of the dot-com bubble burst.

DotComDoom.com -- about the demise of dot-coms. News links.

DotComDoom


I highlight how e-commerce initiatives within established companies thrived even as dot-coms went bust. Early 2001 research shows e-commerce budgets significantly outpaced general IT spending despite the broader market downturn.

Dot-coms go bust, but e-commerce initiatives in companies still thrive.

Dotcoms go bust but ecommerce thrives


I've highlighted these resources for quantitative dream analysis. Dream Research and the Dream Bank offer extensive databases and methodologies for studying dream content, patterns, and psychological meanings through scientific and statistical frameworks.

Dream Research and Dream Bank. Lots about the analysis of dreams.

Dream research


I bookmarked this 2001 report on the emergence of e-ink and e-paper technologies, which promised to revolutionize digital reading by creating screens that look and feel like traditional physical paper.

e-ink on e-paper.

e paper


I observe that privacy and free speech are among the first victims of the September 11 attacks. I am highlighting concerns from the EFF regarding new wiretapping legislation and the immediate impact on digital civil liberties.

Unfortunate, but among the early hits of the attack are privacy and free speech.

Early hits of Sep 11 attack


I experienced classroom tremors and evacuations during an earthquake, noting the financial impact where the Sensex collapsed while cement companies stayed firm. I also shared safety advice like standing under doorways or heading outdoors.

Earthquake. We were in class this morning. We started off with 2 minutes of silence for the earthquake victims. At about 8:15AM, we felt a slight shake. We quickly ran out of the room and down the stairs. By this time, the tremors got fairly strong but they lasted only 7-8 seconds. At around lunch time, the estate officer said we were expecting more tremors at noon, so we lined up at the open air theatre, but nothing happened. Incidentally, stand under a door in case of an earthquake. Or outdoors, of course. Result: Sensex collapses, cement companies stay firm.

Earthquake and impact


I'm looking at Eazel, a Linux GUI project created by former Apple engineers to help bring the operating system to a mainstream audience by focusing on a more polished and user-friendly desktop experience.

Easel is a GUI for Linux written by people from Apple. Hopefully, it will really bring Linux to the masses.

Easel


I shared my excitement for eeggs.com, a dedicated archive of hidden secrets and surprises found in software, movies, and music. I've always loved discovering these clever hidden features tucked away by creators.

Easter eggs. I love these!

Easter eggs


eBay is removing Nazi and hate group items, while Yahoo purges adult content from its site. In contrast, AOL is turning to neural networks to automate content filtering across its services as platforms tighten moderation.

eBay will delist items associated with Nazis, Ku Klux Klan, etc. Yahoo is cleaning its porn content. AOL is, however, using neural networks to automatically filter content.

Ebay to delist Nazi items


I recommend eBiquity for news on pervasive computing, a field that began with Mark Weiser’s foundational research at Xerox PARC. It tracks the evolution of ubiquitous technology and its integration into our daily physical environments.

eBiquity has news on pervasive computing (which, as with most good things, started at Xerox.)

eBiquity


I highlight the Library of Congress’s directory of eBook sources, which serves as a curated gateway to various digital archives and electronic text repositories for finding public domain books and academic research materials online.

The Library of Congress has a collection of eBook sources.

eBook sources


I am highlighting that the Economic and Political Weekly (EPW) has launched its online presence. This provides a digital archive for researchers tracking Indian political economy and sociology through one of the country's premier scholarly journals.

The Economic & Political Weekly is online.

Economic and Political Weekly


I'm highlighting CIOL's e-governance channel, a resource for tracking how digital technology and IT infrastructure are being integrated into Indian government services to improve transparency and administrative efficiency.

CIOL's e-governance channel

eGovernance channel


Electric automobiles are becoming more affordable, with Ford offering leases for $199 a month. The market for personal electric transport is also diversifying to include cycles, scooters, and skis from companies like Aprilia and Fuseproject.

Electric automobiles are becoming affordable, with Ford's car leasing at $199 a month, and electric cycles, scooters and skis coming into the market.

Electric automobiles


I observed that while overall US services sector employment is falling, high-tech jobs continue to grow despite the recession. This highlights a strange resilience in technology sectors compared to broader economic trends.

While in the US services sector employment is falling, high tech employment, which is about 8% of the services sector, continues to grow. Meaning technology is still growing, despite the recession. Strange!

Employment is falling


Encyclopaedia Britannica is no longer providing free access to its online content. The site has officially transitioned to a paid subscription model, requiring users to pay for full access to its reference articles.

Encyclopaedia Britannica is now a paid service.

Encyclopaedia Britannica no longer free


I found the Encyclopaedia Galactica, a comprehensive resource for Isaac Asimov fans. It covers the expansive universe of his Foundation and Robot series, providing detailed entries on characters, locations, and lore for science fiction enthusiasts.

Encyclopaedia Galactica. For Asimov fans.

Encyclopaedia Galactica


I discovered that Every Night Josephine is out of print and noted how copyright restrictions prevent people from simply copying old editions, illustrating the barriers to preserving and sharing older, hard-to-find books.

Every Night Josephine is out of print. If not for copyrights, one could just copy an old print.

Every Night Josephine out of print


Access simple and detailed resources explaining why biological evolution does not contradict the second law of thermodynamics, specifically highlighting the distinction between open and closed systems and the role of external energy sources.

A simple and detailed explanation for why evolution does not contradict the second law of thermodynamics.

Evolution does not contradict the Second Law


I found this analysis of how Google's search technology and information retrieval evolved after the September 11 crash. It examines how the engine adapted its infrastructure and algorithms to manage sudden, massive spikes in global news traffic.

The evolution of Google post the Sep 11 crash.

Evolution of Google


I found a brilliant tool from TheStandard that tracks executives who have been fired or left their positions. It's a useful resource for monitoring leadership turnover during this period of high-profile layoffs.

With all these people getting fired, TheStandard has come out with an ex-Exec tracker. Brilliant!

ex-Exec tracker


I shared a link to a CNN special map detailing the extent of structural damage and building destruction in the area surrounding the World Trade Center following the September 11 attacks.

The extent of damage around the WTC

Extent of damage of Sep 11


I curated reports on the FBI's Magic Lantern keystroke logger, recent campus raids targeting internet piracy, and the ethical standoff as antivirus companies refuse to whitelist government-sanctioned spyware tools.

The FBI snoops around and raids campuses. Virus fighters are trying to hold out.

FBI snoops around


I was surprised by the Federal Reserve's unexpected inter-meeting interest rate cut, the first of its kind. The move caught the market off guard, sparking a significant rally across the NASDAQ and Indian IT stocks.

The Fed lowers interest rates! Certainly hadn't expected it till the end of the month. Obviously, since this is the first time they changed rates in-between policy meetings. The market was caught short too. Anyway, the NASDAQ has shot up. IT stocks in India are following.

Fed lowers interest rates


I shared a link to theonering.net as I look forward to the upcoming theatrical release of Fellowship of the Ring. The movie adaptation of Tolkien's work is set to arrive in theaters very shortly.

Fellowship of the Ring. Releasing shortly.

Fellowship of the Ring


I found FICCI’s portal and the Business Information Services Network to be essential resources for tracking Indian policies. They provide deep insights into the country’s regulatory landscape, trade data, and business environment for researchers and investors.

FICCI's site and their Business Information Services Network are invaluable resources about Indian policies.

FICCI


I discovered that I haven't seen or even read the scripts for any of the films selected for preservation by the National Film Registry in 2000, highlighting a significant gap in my cinematic knowledge.

Of the films selected by the National Film Registry for preservation in 2000, I haven't seen a single one! Not even read the script of any, for that matter.

Films selected for preservation


I found a collection of financial cartoons by Mark Poyser. These illustrations offer a humorous and satirical look at the world of finance, business, and economics through digital art and sketches.

Financial cartoons.

Financial cartoons


I discovered an interactive feature on the Whitehouse.org parody site where the First Lady 'talks.' It’s a classic example of early 2000s internet satire targeting the Bush administration through biting, humorous characterizations.

This First Lady really talks!

First Lady


I've linked to Forbes' directory of the top-rated websites from 2001. It’s a useful archive of what the business magazine considered the gold standard for various online categories during the early web.

Forbes: Best of the Web

Forbes best of the Web


I highlight .fr08, a legendary 64kb demoscene production by Farbrausch. It is a milestone in procedural generation, packing high-fidelity 3D graphics and audio into a tiny executable file.

What is .fr08?

fr08


I find it crazy that France is considering taxing computers and recording devices to compensate artists for piracy, following a similar move by Germany. This comes shortly after the French court's ruling against Yahoo regarding Nazi memorabilia.

After telling Yahoo to remove Nazi memorabilia from its auction site, France is now considering taxing computers and other recording devices to compensate artists for piracy. I mean, Paris and art is all fine, but this is crazy! And Germany's apparantly already done this.

France considering taxing computers


I've discovered the Baen Library, a fantastic source for reading free online science fiction. They offer a selection of full-length novels from several authors that are available to read directly in your web browser.

Free online science fiction at the Baen Library.

Free online science fiction


I'm sharing an insightful article that delves into the origins and underlying motivations of the free software movement, examining why people contribute to open projects and the social structures that sustain these collaborative efforts.

Why does free software exist? An interesting article.

Free software


I highlighted a discussion about the freedom to license software, focusing on how different legal frameworks impact developers. It’s an exploration of the choices we have when deciding how to share and protect our code.

Interesting views on freedom to license software.

Freedom to license software


I examine the closure of Freedrive and Napster as major setbacks for free online services, contrasting these developments with the fundamental legal argument that code should be protected as a form of free speech.

Freedrive closes public storage space. Along with Napster, that's a nail in the coffin of free software. But what about the argument that code is speech, and hence "free speech"?

Freedrive closes


I am excited that scientists are boycotting journals that refuse to provide free access to their archives. This push for open access ensures that vital research is available to the public rather than locked behind paywalls.

Scientists have decided not to publish in journals that do not make their archives available for free. Cheers!

Freeing archives


Explore Thomas Friedman's argument for promoting democracy as a solution to global instability. This note highlights his perspective on why political reform serves as a critical tool for ensuring long-term regional security and countering extremism.

Friedman argues for democracy.

Friedman for democracy


I shared that I work at a fun location in Mumbai and recommended using a Google search for 'having fun in India' to discover the vibrant atmosphere and lifestyle surrounding my current workplace.

I work at a fun place (search for "Having fun in India" on Google).

Fun place


Gartner Group has launched GartnerG2, a new research service focused on business strategy. This expansion signals a shift for the firm from its traditional focus on IT strategy into broader corporate and market intelligence.

The Gartner Group, which focused on IT strategy, has launched GartnerG2, which will talk about business strategy.

GartnerG2


I visited Gaylord in Churchgate with friends, navigating poor service and mixed cocktail reviews. We enjoyed vegetable Au Gratin and Canaloni Indiana after sampling bakery items. Despite frustrations with management, the flavorful food makes it worth revisiting.

Amitabh, Xavier and I, after considerable deliberation on the choice of tonight's restaurant, ended up at Gaylord, again in the Churchgate area. We sat at one of the tables near the entrance, informed a (relatively young, clean shaven) waiter that we'd like a seat inside ASAP, and we'd have drinks in the meantime. Just to be on the safe side, Xavier confirmed with him that it was OK if we got a seat in-between our drinks and we could take the drinks inside. After a few rounds of explanation, he seemed to get the point, and nodded. But the explanation must have done him more harm than good, because he forgot to make our reservation. We ordered drinks in the meantime. Amitabh, a Bloody Mary (whose recommendation is "don't have it." Incidentally, Amitabh benchmarks drinks in a restaurant by Bloody Mary. So his recommendation actually translates to "Don't have anything."), Xavier, a Margarita (he didn't enjoy it all that much either, but was less vehemant about it), and myself, a Virgin Mary. As its the first time I'm having it, I had to enquire (a) if it was non-alcoholic, and (b) what on earth is it? Turned out to be tomato juice, with salt on the rim, and a lemon hanging from a stick poking through it. The salt was tasty. (OK, I'm kidding, I fairly liked it.) And then there was Paneer Alu Croquet, a starter that sounded interesting. Turned out to be mashed paneer and alu filling made in bonda style. Xavier walked down to the nearby bakery and bought chocolate muffins (very nice), a custard muffin (fairly nice), and a chocolate croissant (OK), while Amitabh ran into an old flame. By this time, we noticed that most people that came after us were being let in, and after a fair amount of screaming and threats, managed to get a place inside. It's split into two floors, the first overlooking the ground, and we were seated above. At this point, Amitabh wants me to write that their men's room is pathetic. (To Amitabh, the loo is an important benchmark, again. If they take care of it well, they're bound to take good care of the kitchen, etc.) We settled on garlic bread, vegetable Au Gratin (pretty good), Canaloni Indiana (pasta cooked with spinach and tomato sauce -- excellent), between the three of us. The service inside was acceptable. It's a smoking restaurant (pity), and as always, I was flabbergasted to observe that there were more women smoking than men. There was a bar inside, too. The food was fairly filling. On the whole, I think I'll come back here.

Gaylord


GCC 3.0 features significant improvements, including the addition of a built-in Java compiler. This update expands the GNU Compiler Collection's capabilities, allowing for native compilation of Java code alongside C and C++.

The new GNU C Compiler GCC 3.0 includes a Java compiler.

GCC


I evaluate Encounter 2001’s service for launching hair and personal photos into space for a fee. I contrast this commercial venture with NASA’s free program to send names to Mars, which I joined to receive a certificate.

And now you can send out your genes into space. You write a poem on your photo, stick your hair on it, and they'll throw it into space. Read the FAQ. Oh, and by the way, it costs $50. If they can store 4.5 million submissions, and get $30 per submission (after discounts), they still make $135 million. Plus merchandise, advertising, etc. How much does it cost to launch a spacecraft? (NASA lets you send your name to Mars for free, though. I signed up and got a certificate.)

Genes into space


I recommend Celera's Genomic News as a quality source for tracking advancements in genetic engineering. It offers a useful perspective on the evolving genomics landscape and the specific breakthroughs defining the industry's progress.

Celera's Genomic News is a pretty good source of information on what's happening in genetic engineering.

Genomic News


I examine George Gilder's assertion that bandwidth is replacing processing power as the primary driver of IT innovation. This shift from Moore's Law to Gilder's Law mirrors the industry's broader transition from software to online services.

George Gilder proposes that while Moore's law drove the IT revolution through processing power, today it's bandwidth that's driving it -- through Gilder's Law. This ties back to what an Economist survey says about focus shifting from software to online services.

George Gilder


Explore the Global Corruption Report, a central resource for tracking international bribery, political integrity, and transparency standards. This link directs to detailed findings on systemic corruption issues affecting various sectors and countries globally.

The Global Corruption report.

Global Corruption


I summarized the CIA’s Global Trends 2015 report, highlighting that technological growth will focus on IT, biotech, materials, and nanotechnology, while identifying agricultural improvement as India’s primary challenge for future development.

Global Trends: 2015 (CIA) says technological development will be in IT, biotech, materials & nanotechnology. And that India's main problem will be to improve agriculture.

Global trends


I categorize the spectrum of computer viruses, from harmful malware to proposed beneficial code and deceptive hoaxes like the sulfnbk.exe warning, reflecting on the different types of digital threats and misinformation.

Viruses are bad. But some are good, and others, ugly (hoaxes, that is).

Good bad and ugly viruses


I'm following a "Robin Hood" trend where "social worms" are designed to perform tasks like reporting child pornography. It’s an interesting shift toward using self-replicating code for ethical purposes rather than just traditional malware.

After the good worm, we now have the social worm, which searches for child porn and reports it. This is starting a Robin Hood-esque trend.

Good worm


I'm excited that Google acquired Deja, giving me a powerful tool to search Usenet archives. It’s also a great sign that Google has the capital for acquisitions, showing their growing influence in the search landscape.

Google bought Deja. I don't know which is better news -- that they have money to buy companies, or that I can now search the Usenet.

Google buys Deja


I'm highlighting Google's new search service for browsing mail-order catalogs. It digitizes paper catalogs, allowing users to search for products and browse pages online, marking an interesting expansion of Google’s index into physical print media.

Google catalog. For mail order catalogs.

Google catalog


I'm sharing that Google Groups has officially moved its Usenet archive out of beta, providing a searchable interface for decades of internet history. This release makes legacy newsgroup discussions more accessible and preserved for the public.

Google groups archive is out of beta.

Google Groups out of beta


I found Google's new image search tool which indexes 150 million images. It’s a significant update for finding visual content, and I also shared an interesting search query for 'dead.long.live' to test the results.

Google has an image search with 150 million images. (While on the topic of Google, try this search on dead.long.live.)

Google image search


I discovered a useful third-party Google toolbar created by Dave that fills a gap in browser functionality. I'm surprised Google hasn't released their own official version yet, making this community-built tool essential for my search workflow.

Just what I needed. A google toolbar, except that it's not by Google. Wonder why they didn't think of it...

Google toolbar by Dave


I track Google's early 2001 developments in voice search technology, noting their move into speech recognition. This vintage update reflects the beginning of search interfaces evolving beyond simple text input on a keyboard.

Google just goes on. They're working on voice search now.

Google voice search


Explore Google Zeitgeist to track search trends and cultural shifts. This tool provides insights into popular queries, alongside similar offerings from Yahoo Buzz, Lycos50, AskJeeves, and Excite that reveal the internet's collective interest.

Google Zeitgeist: trends in Google searches. (Zeitgeist means "the general intellectual, moral, and cultural climate of an era"). Similar to Buzz and Lycos50. Other sites that offer search profiles are AskJeeves, Search.com, Excite, and Goto.

Google Zeitgeist


I shared a humorous link from the Telegraph about how grammar becomes the first casualty of war. It highlights linguistic errors that crop up in media coverage during times of conflict.

Grammer: the first casualty of war. Funny.

Grammer


Explore Gramophone magazine's online archive for expert reviews of classical western music. It is a valuable resource for finding high-quality recordings, evaluating new releases, and staying informed about developments in the classical music world.

The Gramophone magazine has reviews on classical western music.

Gramophone magazine


I recently bought an MG Logic graphic tablet and have been impressed with its quality. It is a solid, effective tool for digital input and creative work, offering a much better experience than using a standard mouse.

I bought a graphic tablet. Pretty good.

Graphic tablet


I highlighted a security exploit in Microsoft Passport just as BCG moved our team to .Net IDs. While the vulnerability is concerning, I've found MSN Messenger 4.5 to be a solid update for messaging.

You can hack into MS Passport. And just today, BCG decided to move us all into a passport ID using .Net. Still, MSN Messenger 4.5 is pretty good.

Hack into MS Passport


Explore the lucrative world of online theft through hacker diaries and junk-mail hoax reports. If you've been targeted by credit card fraud, use resources like Card Cops to share your experience and find support.

If you don't believe in online theft, read the diaries of hackers who make six figures, or stores of junk-mail hoaxes. If you've already been had, share your sorrow at Card cops.

Hackers who make six figures


I explore the high cost of detecting hacking and the privacy dangers of permanent online logging. Based on these threats, I recommend switching off your internet connection when it is not actively being used.

After seeing how costly it is to detect hacking, and the fact that anything you say can be logged against you, one wonders if being online is worth it. If you've got a permanent Internet connection, keep it switched off.

Hacking is unavoidable


I highlight the classic HAL and IBM connection in 2001: A Space Odyssey while pointing to a clever genetic pun found in the title of the film Gattaca, which references DNA base sequences.

If you thought HAL and IBM in 2001: A Space Odyssey was clever, you should read this article to learn out about the pun in Gattaca.

HAL and IBM


I am marking the 100th birthday of Walt Disney by sharing a commemorative link and image. This brief post highlights the centenary of the animation pioneer's birth on December 5, 2001.

Happy 100th birthday, Walt!\ Disney's 100th Birthday, 2001-12-05

Happy 100th birthday Walt


I found that the Harry Potter movie is scheduled for an Indian release only in April 2002. I'm frustrated by the significant delay compared to the global premiere dates listed by Warner Bros.

The Harry Potter movie is coming to India only in Apr 2002. :-(

Harry Potter in India only in Apr 2002


I shared the news that Warner Brothers was officially producing a Harry Potter movie. This early link allowed fans to follow the production's progress on the studio's website as the beloved book series transitioned to the big screen.

Warner Brothers are making a Harry Potter movie. Comments Khanjan 26 Sep 2008 12:27 am: Harry Potter is best movie. please watching me thi movies

Harry Potter movie


I noted the rising popularity of the Harry Potter website and poked fun at a CNet article's redundant demographic reporting, which oddly specified that males accounted for "more than 37 percent" of the audience.

The Harry Potter site is becoming quite popular. But what I don't get is the comment on CNet saying "Females made up 63 percent of the site's audience, while males accounted for more than 37 percent." Hmm... what were they expecting? Martians?

Harry Potter site popular


I found a comprehensive collection of Hello World code examples written in dozens of different programming languages. This resource is perfect for comparing syntax and seeing how various languages handle basic output.

Hello, world.

Hello world in many languages


I found a resource for streaming Hindi movies online via Filmnasha. It provides a direct way for you to watch Bollywood films and Indian cinema titles directly within your web browser.

Watch Hindi movies online

Hindi movies online


I found the New School’s History of Economic Thought website to be an excellent resource for exploring contrasting viewpoints on business and economics, providing a deep dive into historical theories and diverse academic perspectives.

New School's History of Economic Thought website is an excellent collection of contrasting viewpoints on business and economics.

History of Economic Thought


I linked to Stanford's digital history of the Macintosh, a detailed archive featuring primary sources, design materials, and photos. It provides an essential look at the early development and cultural impact of Apple’s revolutionary desktop computer system.

A history of the Macintosh computer.

History of the Mac


I've announced the winners of the IIM Bangalore home page competition. Section C claimed the top spot with Section A as runner-up, reflecting the early 2000s web development culture within the IIMB student community.

The home page competition results are out. Congrats to Section C, and to Section A, who were close behind.

Home page competition results


I found a website that calculates your monetary value as a human being. It’s a quirky tool from the early 2000s web that asks personal questions to determine your literal price tag for entertainment.

How much are you worth?

How much are you worth


Check out this improved model for human capital valuation from the IIMB Review. The article provides a specific framework for measuring the economic worth of employees and intellectual assets within a firm.

And article on Human Capital Valuation from Deep, Kalidas, Kundu, Pankaj and Sumit on IIMB Review.

Human Capital Valuation


I'm tracking the 2001 milestone where researchers at Advanced Cell Technology cloned the first human embryo. This breakthrough focused on therapeutic cloning to create patient-specific stem cells for treating diseases rather than for human reproduction.

The human embryo cloned.

Human embryo cloned


Check out the UCSC Genome Browser for interactive access to the human genome. It’s a foundational bioinformatics tool for visualizing genomic sequences, gene annotations, and integrated maps to help navigate complex genetic data.

Genome browser.

Human genome browser


I highlight Human Spell Check, a site that exposes glaring spelling mistakes on major websites that should have known better. It’s a humorous look at corporate oversight, though I admit I don't use spell-check myself.

Human Spell Check tosses out some glaring spelling mistakes at famous websites -- which presumably would have run a spell-checking software on their site. Mind you, I personally do not.

Human Spell Check


I shared a humorous 2001 Yahoo Messenger chat transcript where I "adopted" a six-year-old in a chat room. We bantered about secret emoticons, chocolate, and parenting rules while navigating the chaotic, nostalgic era of early internet messaging.

This is one of the funniest conversations I've had.\ funkymishti79: hello\ funkymishti79: anyone wanna chat\ anand\m26blr: Sure Funky.\ anand\m26blr: Are you from Mumbai?\ funkymishti79: where r u from\ kunu122: hi\ anand\m26blr: Mumbai. Actually, I didn't quite think anyone would use this room.\ funkymishti79: hi kunu\ anand\m26blr: I had dropped by to practise some Yahoo emoticons\ kunu122: is there any 1 there in room\ anand\m26blr: which were not listed.\ anand\m26blr: Good to see so many join in.\ funkymishti79: lol\ kunu122: u\ kunu122: how r u\ anand\m26blr: Hey, did you all know about the secret emoticons?\ funkymishti79: i am fine kunu\ kunu122: please tell me how\ anand\m26blr: Well, for the rose\ kunu122: a/s/l\ funkymishti79: whose?????\ anand\m26blr: you've got to type @ } ; -\ anand\m26blr: Yours, I suppose, Funky.\ kunu122: u funky\ funkymishti79: sharon r u theres\ anand\m26blr: Mine is obvious -- M 26 BLR.\ anand\m26blr: Hi, Kunu.\ kunu122: how r u\ funkymishti79: 6/f/mum\ anand\m26blr: Good. Where are you from?\ funkymishti79: u are old enough to be my father anand\ kunu122: r u just 6 yrs\ funkymishti79: yes kunu uncle.....\ anand\m26blr: Always wanted a kid, Funky. Shall I adopt you?\ kunu122: 16/m/mum\ anand\m26blr: Hmmm... between us, we're in arithmetic progression\ kunu122: anand a/s/l\ anand\m26blr: M 26. Right now I'm in Mumbai.\ funkymishti79: glad to be ur daughter...by the way are u fussy about late nights and chocolates????\ funkymishti79: r u not frm mumbai\ anand\m26blr: I'm EXTREMELY fussy about late nights, but not chocolates.\ kunu122: yes i m from mum\ anand\m26blr: Unless you prefer dark chocolate.\ anand\m26blr: How about you, Kunu? What's your preference of chocolate?\ funkymishti79: r u adopting kunu tooo.....i don't want a brother\ anand\m26blr: Well, Kunu can be your uncle\ funkymishti79: where is my mommy....(tears)\ anand\m26blr: These days, you need to learn to cope with having a single parent, dear!\ funkymishti79: naa...i wnat mommy and no uncle...\ anand\m26blr: Well, Kunu, I don't know your preferences, but\ funkymishti79: unless he is handsome\ anand\m26blr: could you become Funky's mommy?\ anand\m26blr: Uh, oh.. I think he's gone!\ funkymishti79: i want kunu mommy.....(laughing with one tooth)\ anand\m26blr: Scared him, didn't you?!? Very bad girl!\ anand\m26blr: Shouldn't scare mommy away.\ funkymishti79: vinay r u frm delhi????\ funkymishti79: no i want mommy...daddy help\ anand\m26blr: Guess I'll have to get you another one, child.\ anand\m26blr: Lots around.\ anand\m26blr: Hello everyone.\ anand\m26blr: Anyone wants to join me in parenting Funky?\ anand\m26blr: Gender irrelevant.\ anand\m26blr: She likes late nights (I don't) and chocolate (I do)\ funkymishti79: parents invited for interviews...open now...rush for it\ anand\m26blr: Application: 79 year old. Plenty of experience.\ anand\m26blr: Retired in 1980.\ funkymishti79: help i want a mommy...u fool...not a nani\ anand\m26blr: Well, why not both?\ anand\m26blr: Application: 79 year old with 50 year old daughter\ anand\m26blr: AND a 25 year old grand-daughter.\ funkymishti79: i said only mommy and not the whole fuckin family....\ anand\m26blr: Good lord, you have such vile vocabulary. Wash your mouth!!\ anand\m26blr: Otherwise no chocolates tonight.\ anand\m26blr: Do you really like chocolate that much? I'm a white chocolate fan myself.\ funkymishti79: i heard u saying these last night with the barely clad woman daddy\ anand\m26blr: Well, Funky, you and I should have a little chat about birds and\ anand\m26blr: bees in about 6-7 years from now.\ anand\m26blr: But till then, sleep early!!\ funkymishti79: no i want to stick to daddy and do what he does...\ funkymishti79: with the birds and bees\ anand\m26blr: I don't think you can do what daddy does, sweety pie. A bird cannot do what a bee does.\ anand\m26blr: (At least, not as well)\ funkymishti79: me a delhiwali and u....daddy (blinking eyelids)\ anand\m26blr: Daddy has been all over the country\ funkymishti79: me likes new daddy....now the chocolates...heh heh\ anand\m26blr: Chocolates will be served only after dinner. First, brush your teeth.\ funkymishti79: how can i eat chocolates after brushing my teeth u moron!!!!\ anand\m26blr: Moron!?!? That's not the way you speak to daddy, child! Now, spank yourself and\ anand\m26blr: pretend daddy really beat you up.\ funkymishti79: kids r smarter these days daddy\ anand\m26blr: And what's wrong with eating chocolates after brushing your teeth?\ anand\m26blr: You can always brush it again after the chocolate\ anand\m26blr: I'll go with you on the kids getting smarter. The time's come when I think I know\ anand\m26blr: less than my 12-year old cousins.\ funkymishti79: lets get brushing outof the scene whats the use????\ anand\m26blr: Point. All other things being equal, I'd rather never brush.\ anand\m26blr: And, of course, hog all the chocolate and ice cream I can get.\ anand\m26blr: But Daddy never said that, OK?\ funkymishti79: what do u do for a living daddy???? i mean i have to know the money source\ anand\m26blr: well, OK, you might be a prodigy. funkymishti79: no such luck...i am spoilt brat kinds\ anand\m26blr: Daddy works as a consultant. And don't EVER ask what that means.\ anand\m26blr: Daddy makes a life out of conning poor companies off their wealth.\ funkymishti79: smart daddy\ funkymishti79: naaaaa...me got a sis\ anand\m26blr: Well, that makes me the proud father of two, then! Wonder when I got the time away\ anand\m26blr: from all these clients!\ funkymishti79: interesting so no family jhanjhat\ anand\m26blr: None at all.\ anand\m26blr: Incidentally, is my daughter fending off a whole array of PMs?\ funkymishti79: save me dadddy\ anand\m26blr: Kyaa hua bitiya?\ anand\m26blr: Kaun tujhe tang kar raha hein?\ funkymishti79: duniya bhar ke ladke\ funkymishti79: pappa\ anand\m26blr: baat karo na? taras rahe honge\ anand\m26blr: bichare na jaane kitne door se aaye hein tumse baat karne ke liye.\ anand\m26blr: Aur agar koi pasand aaya, let me know. I'll start worrying about him 15 years from now.\ funkymishti79: anand u r damn cute\ anand\m26blr: With all due respect, I am NOT cute. I may be a hunk,\ anand\m26blr: I may be powerfully attractive,\ anand\m26blr: but I am NOT, repeat NOT, cute.\ anand\m26blr: you promise not to call me "cute".\ anand\m26blr: Such a ridiculous word.\ anand\m26blr: Do you promise?\ funkymishti79: sorry daddy...i thought my daddy will be more appropriate\ anand\m26blr: Hmmm.... that's better.\ anand\m26blr: Just keep showing me this kind of respect, and I'll treat you to chocolates.\ anand\m26blr: Maybe even let you stay up late on Saturdays.\ funkymishti79: cute...cute....cute...anand is cute\ anand\m26blr: HRRRMMMPPHHH!\ anand\m26blr: Bad girl!\ anand\m26blr: Sssshhhhhhhhh....\ anand\m26blr: Koi sun lega. What will happen to my reputation!?\ funkymishti79: no daddy don't be greedy now\ anand\m26blr: Nothing greedy about not wanting to be "cute"!\ anand\m26blr: (Yuk, what a word!)\ anand\m26blr: Can I PM you, if you don't mind? Wouldn't want Kunu to track me down and propose to me...\ funkymishti79: jaydeep are u sharon's friend\ anand\m26blr: Hmm, who's Jaydeep? Hi Jaydeep! Why don't you join us?\ funkymishti79: daddy...thats is for me....parents stay away\ anand\m26blr: This place is a bit of madhouse, but its OK, I'm sure you'll fit in...\ anand\m26blr: OK, OK, dear.\ anand\m26blr: Incidentally, I know it's a little late to ask, but what's your real name?\ funkymishti79: daddy can call beti anything\ anand\m26blr: Funky sounds too 'funky'. Mishti's better. OK, mishti?\ funkymishti79: yes daddy....as long as u feed me\ anand\m26blr: Strict diet of chocolates and ice cream, I suppose? No way!\ anand\m26blr: Daal chaval and roti is what you can expect.\ anand\m26blr: Maybe the occassional bhaingan bharta.\ funkymishti79: gotta go...will call u tomorrow\ anand\m26blr: See you. And now I can go back in peace to my emoticons

I adopt a 6-year old


I'm visiting Bangkok and pausing site updates for a week. This trip comes just before my site’s first anniversary on July 28, celebrating a full year of regular posting since I began in mid-2000.

I'm in Bangkok. Not planning to update this site for a week. Incidentally, it's almost time for my site's first anniversary -- a year since 28 July 2000, when I started updating it regularly.

I am at Bangkok


I navigate a bizarre online chat with an engineer from Orissa who confuses my gender, misinterprets my interests in animation, and offers unsolicited advice on self-control. It is a humorous look at early-2000s internet miscommunication.

I just can't figure out some people. It's not just their English, which can be even more confusing than mine. It's just their way of thinking, I guess. This guy, for instance, started off with...\ debasissatpathy: hi friend i want a cool girl\ root\node: I'm sure you do. Haven't found one yet, have you?\ debasissatpathy: no i have lots of girl friends not a lover\ root\node: Too bad. Why don't you have a lover, though?\ debasissatpathy: i want a girl who will perfect matching for me\ root\node: And what kind of a person is a perfect match for you?\ debasissatpathy: a sexy bold and friendly girl\ root\node: That's it? And you'd fall in love with a sexy, bold and friendly girl?\ root\node: (BTW, hope you're not trying to hook ME...)\ root\node: I'm not a girl, FYI.\ debasissatpathy: he i am a girl try to hog me\ \ This floored me completely. I had no clue what the guy was saying. I figured he might have meant, "Hey, I am a girl... try to hug me!" -- so I figured...\ \ root\node: Gosh, I'm chatting to a lesbian!!\ debasissatpathy: he i am not a lesbo i am intrest in your pennies\ \ Now, I'm completely clueless. "pennies"!?? Why's he interested in my money, and how's he going to get his hands on it? But then, it hit me...\ \ root\node: Ah, I trust that would be a mis-spelling for the male organ of reproduction.\ root\node: Nice thing to be interested in.\ root\node: And you're looking for your sexy bold friendly girl online?\ debasissatpathy: it is only nice or any thing special in you\ root\node: Oh, dear me.. always thought I was a bit different, at least in name...\ debasissatpathy: no nothing in name you want to enjoy so don't be a homo\ root\node: Fair advice. Thought bisexuals have the best of both world's I guess.\ root\node: Wouldn't you agree?\ debasissatpathy: common i am a male and don't be so bore\ root\node: Hmmm... what do you propose we do then, Debasis?\ root\node: I hate to bore you as much as you hate being bored by me.\ root\node: Shall we pester some of the lasses around?\ debasissatpathy: no if you want a strong friend ship then step your feet now\ debasissatpathy: i am a very carring person above all i am an indian\ \ Wow! Strong sentiments. I'd better "step on my feet", and prove my "friendship".\ \ root\node: So am I Debasis. Caring, and Indian.\ debasissatpathy: he don't be so bold enjoy\ root\node: I didn't understand...\ debasissatpathy: to be a friend you should tell me somthing about you and your family\ root\node: OK. I'm an only child, and I'm from Madras.\ debasissatpathy: do you native of tn or migrated\ root\node: Native.\ root\node: What about you, Debasis? How old are you? What do you do?\ debasissatpathy: what about your hobbies\ root\node: I play the keyboard. Mostly film songs. I play basketball. Reading, etc.\ debasissatpathy: tell me about your education\ root\node: Of course... but do answer my question? How old are you? And what do you do?\ debasissatpathy: i am 22 year old a mechanical engineer and warkin in a mnc at new delhi\ root\node: Oh... which company do you work in?\ debasissatpathy: in neolite industries\ root\node: What products do you manufacture?\ debasissatpathy: automobile lights\ root\node: Oh, cool. I just finished a management degree a few months ago.\ root\node: I'm a chemical engineer myself.\ debasissatpathy: good but tell me what you want to be in feature\ root\node: I want to direct a cartoon film. Some day...\ debasissatpathy: ok why cartoon these are aim of girls\ \ Sheesh! Such preconceived notions.... anyway, at this point, the guy starts getting really wierd.\ \ root\node: Well... sounds like Walt Disney was a guy. And I kinda admire the guy.\ root\node: Wouldn't mind being like him.\ debasissatpathy: tell me one thing if you are alone with a girl what will you do\ root\node: Talk to her.\ debasissatpathy: what type of talk\ root\node: Normal talk -- the kind we're doing. What're your interests, etc.\ root\node: Why? What would YOU do?\ debasissatpathy: i will try to notice if see will screm or not\ root\node: OK, and then?\ debasissatpathy: try to know about her needs\ root\node: Like what?\ debasissatpathy: if she want help ok or if her intesions are bad then leave her alone\ root\node: What do you mean by bad intentions?\ debasissatpathy: not by bad intent but i like those who know there limits\ root\node: Please clarify....\ debasissatpathy: a girl look good not only from skin from charecter that is for male also\ debasissatpathy: so always try to control yourself\ root\node: Of course, Debasis. I'll keep that in mind.\ debasissatpathy: because i love those girls\ root\node: Have you met many girls who do not know their limits?\ debasissatpathy: oh you are not he ok we are good friends make it strong\ root\node: Great to hear that!\ root\node: Now, back to cartoons -- why do you think they're for girls?\ debasissatpathy: give me your address and mine was debasissatpathy@yahoo.com\ root\node: root\node@yahoo.com\ debasissatpathy: what is ur name\ root\node: Anand.\ debasissatpathy: annad are you rajesh khanna\ \ What on earth does that mean? Took me quite a while to figure out he was refering to the movie "Anand".\ \ root\node: Would love to be, but hate to admit that I'm not. Why? Have you lost him?\ debasissatpathy: clear it\ root\node: Are you asking about the film star Rajesh Khanna?\ debasissatpathy: and tell me about your family\ root\node: I already did -- single child, and from Madras. That's about it.\ debasissatpathy: are you not she\ root\node: No, trust me -- I'm as masculine as they get. I'm a "he" for sure!\ debasissatpathy: ok try to contact me through mail and i am a native of orissa\ root\node: Sure, Debasis. It's been a very interesting experience, chatting with you!\ debasissatpathy: ok it is very long chating because here i am after my duty is over you\ debasissatpathy: plase contact me through e mail bye friend\ root\node: Bye!

I am befriended by an Oriyan with strong opinions


I took the blogaholic quiz and scored 48/100, labeling me a casual weblogger. I discovered that 39% of participants are more dedicated to blogging than I am, since I usually only post when I have nothing better to do.

I am not a blogaholic. I scored 48/100. 39% scored more than I did. I am "a casual weblogger ... blog when nothing better to do ... post more often ... readers happy."

I am not a blogaholic


I discovered that I am R2D2 after taking an online Star Wars personality test. I've shared the link to my specific results and the main quiz page so you can find out your own character match.

I'm R2D2. Who are you?

I am R2D2


I encountered a user in a Yahoo Chat room streaming high-quality music from Durban. I chatted with him about his band and sister’s singing, though I suspected they were just playing recorded albums while I offered polite feedback.

I was scouring various chat rooms on Yahoo, when I hear music stream down one of the Mumbai chat rooms. It looked like fairly professional music. Quite nice. After a while, a message came on the the chat room... mahomedyaseenkhan: did you hear my music? I did. So,... anand\m26blr: Hi maho... I do. Heard you.\ mahomedyaseenkhan: hello!!!!!!\ mahomedyaseenkhan: was my singing nice\ mahomedyaseenkhan: must i sing more songs\ anand\m26blr: A bit on the higher side, the pitch. Now, you're probably wondering why I said that. Well, frankly, I heard a LADY's voice, and "mahomedyaseenkhan" sure is no lady. But heck, there's a whole lot of people who can sing at a lady's pitch, so I figured, fine. (The truth is revealed later.) anand\m26blr: The tune was good, though.\ anand\m26blr: On the whole, yeah, I'd buy your album\ mahomedyaseenkhan: must i sing more song's\ mahomedyaseenkhan: can i sing more songs\ anand\m26blr: You sure must!\ anand\m26blr: Have you given a performance before?\ anand\m26blr: Louder, please!\ mahomedyaseenkhan: ill sing just now\ mahomedyaseenkhan: let me chat\ anand\m26blr: OK, sure.\ mahomedyaseenkhan: are u a muslim\ mahomedyaseenkhan: if u are u no wats azaan\ anand\m26blr: No, and I don't know what azaan is either...\ anand\m26blr: What is it?\ mahomedyaseenkhan: in muslim we have 2pray wen something goes\ mahomedyaseenkhan: its something that a man sayz 2whole of south afrca's mulims\ mahomedyaseenkhan: muslims\ anand\m26blr: Oh, I see.\ anand\m26blr: Why'd you ask, BTW?\ mahomedyaseenkhan: wat did u c\ mahomedyaseenkhan: lol\ mahomedyaseenkhan: just joking I didn't see the joke. But no harm in smiling... anand\m26blr: :-)\ mahomedyaseenkhan: k ill sing in 01 min time\ mahomedyaseenkhan: im setting my band\ anand\m26blr: OK, will await in rapt attention I was being sarcastic, but the music that I heard was truly professional. I was convinced they guy was either operating a proper band, or was playing recorded music. mahomedyaseenkhan: howz that 1\ anand\m26blr: Way cool, man!!\ anand\m26blr: How many of you were there?\ anand\m26blr: Or was it all just you!?\ mahomedyaseenkhan: me and my friends\ mahomedyaseenkhan: 3of uss\ mahomedyaseenkhan: which 1u think was me\ anand\m26blr: You sure have a great band, boss. Where are you? In Mumbai?\ anand\m26blr: I don't know... a wild guess would be the guitarist. Were you?\ mahomedyaseenkhan: i was the 1 that was saying\ mahomedyaseenkhan: south afrca\ mahomedyaseenkhan: durban\ anand\m26blr: Oh, OK.\ mahomedyaseenkhan: i swear by the moon and the star\ anand\m26blr: What about the accompaniments, then?\ mahomedyaseenkhan: ?\ anand\m26blr: I mean, who played the instruments?\ mahomedyaseenkhan: must i sing anothere 1\ mahomedyaseenkhan: my friendz\ mahomedyaseenkhan: another song\ anand\m26blr: Why not? More importantly, why don't you record your songs in an album?\ mahomedyaseenkhan: this song my sister will sing 4u\ mahomedyaseenkhan: with her friendz\ mahomedyaseenkhan: nah\ mahomedyaseenkhan: its not that good\ mahomedyaseenkhan: my sister will sing this song\ mahomedyaseenkhan: its called\ anand\m26blr: What difference does THAT make? Just record it yaar. Anyway, I'll be listening.\ mahomedyaseenkhan: survivour\ mahomedyaseenkhan: k\ mahomedyaseenkhan: my sister sang that 1\ mahomedyaseenkhan: must i sing\ mahomedyaseenkhan: now\ mahomedyaseenkhan: wait\ mahomedyaseenkhan: 1min\ mahomedyaseenkhan: usts a move\ anand\m26blr: Hey, I didn't hear the last one...\ mahomedyaseenkhan: ill tell my sister 2sing it again\ anand\m26blr: OK.\ mahomedyaseenkhan: are u listnin\ mahomedyaseenkhan: 2myn\ anand\m26blr: Can't hear a thing.\ anand\m26blr: OK, will wait.\ mahomedyaseenkhan: did u hear myn\ mahomedyaseenkhan: its called\ anand\m26blr: I heard a voice, but no song...\ mahomedyaseenkhan: it wasn't me\ anand\m26blr: I mean, just a phrase...\ anand\m26blr: Not a song.\ mahomedyaseenkhan: wait\ mahomedyaseenkhan: ill tell my sis\ mahomedyaseenkhan: sing her 1 again\ anand\m26blr: Just let me know when she starts, and I'll tell you if I can hear her.\ mahomedyaseenkhan: she will start now\ anand\m26blr: Can't hear anything yet.\ mahomedyaseenkhan: now\ anand\m26blr: Can't hear a thing.\ mahomedyaseenkhan: can u hear\ anand\m26blr: What's happening?\ anand\m26blr: OK, can hear her.\ anand\m26blr: Hey, sounds great. Exactly like the original. I wasn't kidding. I thought they were playing me some tape. Anyway, listening to original albums isn't my way of spending a weekend anyway. anand\m26blr: OK, boss, I've got to push now. Have to eat. Let's chat some other time...\ anand\m26blr: will look forward to it.\ anand\m26blr: Really sorry I couldn't chat longer.\ anand\m26blr: Bye! Ah, but our friend is persistent. mahomedyaseenkhan: how about after u eat\ anand\m26blr: I'm going home after that.\ mahomedyaseenkhan: k\ anand\m26blr: How about next weekend? That's when I'll get online again.\ mahomedyaseenkhan: friday night\ anand\m26blr: OK. Bye! Needless to say, I took several months before I logged in.

I appreciate music