The first thing that comes to me when I look for conversations is books. Ever since I could read, I have been immersed into books. From short stories to full length novels, from Enid Blyton to William Shakespeare, from Asterix to the da Vinci Code. Reading is more than a pastime. It is a true joy for the mind and the soul.

Food comes a close second on my list of loves. I love to experiment with cuisine, spices and herbs. I can cook a chicken curry and rice pulao that can become a staple diet of a small nation. I love Indian, Italian, Cantonese, Chinese, Sichuan and Continental cuisine. Crisp fried Hangzhou west Lake fish is my current favorite, with Bacon and Eggs being a close second.

 

I love watching cartoons and the West Wing. I am an ardent Star Trek fan, but prefer Star Trek - Voyager over the other series.

 

I love teaching and learning. I have been a teacher for a long time, in both academic and the corporate worlds.

I am supporter of CRY - Child Relief and You and believe every child has a right to a comfortable childhood, world - class education and equal opportunities to develop in their own chosen fields.

 

Since starting my career, I have donated 1% of my annual income to charity, because its the least I can do.

I am frank and honest and have been known to give harsh feedback, when I deemed it appropriate. I hate hypocrites, who cannot stand up for what they believe in. I find offense with the phrase “politically correct”, because I think it is an oxymoron.

 

I have an inherent dislike for people who believe they have a lot of social smartness and are always trying to be the centre of attention in a conversation. I cannot respect a person who does not have intelligence, but is getting by in the world by wits alone.