Slumdog Millionaire seems to be the flavor of the season (2008-09).  I am writing this post after seeing the Slumdog movie.  And, am reminded of Lathika’s character.  See inserted picture here.  Do you see any resemblance between this child-woman and the toddler she is carrying?  Also, the child-woman (waif) seems to be fairly good looking too.  Wonder what her story is and how she has come to this state.  To those that might question how slum kids could end up as good looking as Freida Pinto, this waif is but one example.

Co-existence of slumdogs and millionaires is quite the reality in India.  The dichotomy can inure you to hardships, disturb you to be angry or dig deep or just simply make you aware and appreciate the Joie de vivre.  And, yes, from time to time, there are the slumdog fairytales in real life too.

Took this picture from inside my car as we were waiting at the lights by Tharamani and Velachery.  Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Below is an example of what a gifted street kid (Ravi) can pick up by way of skills.  I had seen the first video below couple of years back and was humbled and inspired by Ravi.  The second video, which tracks down Ravi after 3-years of the first one, shows a glimpse of him playing the “Tour Guide”.  And, this is what this Curry Bear blog post is mainly talking about.

Once again, thanks to a “westerner” for making this video and piggybacking on the Slumdog wave to popularize this kid.  And, back-off (from Danny Boyle) .. all those guardians of Desi pride, who got “hurt” that India was not portrayed in a dignified manner.  I will save (my) reasoning to this remark to a later post.  Until then, let this slumdog kid (Ravi) inspire you to revisit and expand your own realms of possibilities ..

Lingo Kid – Beginnings

Lingo Kid – The Teenage Years

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