For the IITian passing through the last stages of teen-hood, Mood Indigo offers lots more than performances (Yeaah!), plays (Wah! Wah!), fashion show (Ah!) and Aqua games (Aaaah!).

It adds a glitter to the eye, a glow to the face.

It adds style to his/ her otherwise squalid lifestyle.

It also removes quite a lot of moolah from his pocket, but gives him enough chances to win more.

That's why, over the years, Mood I has become a perfectly acceptable Chicken Soup for the Collegian's Soul.

Here's a guide so that first-timers can enjoy their share of soup -- with all the masala.

Symptoms of Mood Indigo

These can be clearly seen in early November in an IITian when he/ she decides to lose the extra pounds he has gained.

In most cases, only in early December would he/ she start to seriously introspect and end up deciding that, with proper clothing (read camouflage), he/ she can manage to look like, well, a rather plump cousin of Brad Pitt or Angelina Jolie, as the case may be.

A general dressing upgrade, bike learning sessions, etc, are the symptoms that follow.

The author would like to warn first timers strongly against this 'sure not to fail' formula.

Mood Indigo, more than anything else, is about having fun.

Just wear the attitude that fits you best -- be it 'nerd is nirvana' or 'I think I'm cool' or even the clich�d 'been there, done that.'

Pssst, here's the dope!

Just get into the money looting sessions rampant around the campus during the day -- also called competitions or Informals -- where you can win anything from freebies, vouchers, blind dates, free trips... Ummm, did we forget to mention cash prizes?

Add some glamour to your life, join the couple dancing workshop at Horizons. If you worship Newton (read inertia), Horizons also showcases professional plays, painting exhibitions by renowned artistes, etc, which are less taxing on the body.

And when it gets dark�watch out. The jungle comes alive with professional nites that cater to your whim and fancy -- from Classical Nite for peaceful souls to Livewire for the headbanging army.

If you think that's the end, you're wrong my friend. Insomnia calls the creatures of night to party in an ambience we promise no other fest can give you.

Things you won't hear/see at Mood I

• Please stand in queue.
• Move in line.
• You should have done pre-registration a month ago.
• Parental guidance.
• Entry fee for events.

Statutory warning: Mood Indigo is highly addictive.