The Indian World

Share the World!

2011-04-10T19:58:00.000+05:30

I'm sure many of my readers and friends might want to read something on the recent cricket World Cup or the Anti-Corruption drive in the country in this blog post. Sorry, I'm doing nothing of that sort.

Here is a different topic that struck me like lightning:

We humans are amazing creatures. We are the only ones to be called intelligent due to our thinking capacities. However, if we realize, we are actually doing more harm than good to Planet Earth. We mine and dig deep for our greed. We kill its beautiful natural resources for our own good. We murder our waters with garbage and pollution. All this for the betterment of our OWN benefit. Why should we then wonder if animal and plant life tags us as selfish?

Let us realize as intelligent beings, that we are here for collective growth and development. We are kings and rulers of our own world. Each one of us is powerful and capable to provide for welfare for others. In fact, I believe the very purpose of our existence is to spread and share all that we have.

It seems contradictory that on one hand, we say the world is a large family and on the other, hesitate to give of ourselves. We cannot live if we do not give. In fact, each one of us has the power to provide for all that the world is in need of.

There is really nothing that we can call our own. We usually run after material things and then let them rule over us. Money and goods are often hoarded to act as a form of security. This causes stagnation, my friends. We ought to give what we take. Or else, how would the world function and sustain itself? For instance, let us share our knowledge, experience and wisdom with our fellow mates to enrich their lives. Why hold on to money also? Money is just a means of exchange and meant for survival.

Living itself is a flow. And the opposite of flow is apathy. We as Indians appear to be extremely apathetic to all that is going around us. We must realize that our laid-back attitude is actually preventing us from living the way we want to. Our lives have become so mechanical that we are not prone to anything that happens in the world. We might raise our voices only if events or incidents concern us in specific.

Let us stay in this flow by giving of ourselves. I must admit here that it is always the Giver's Gain! All that we possess now or later in our life will not be ours after our death. So why remain attached to all that is fleeting and temporary?

For instance, in my case, I am in the process of donating my already-read books so that I can give light to those who have never seen it. I have old clothes in my place that I shall be giving to the needy, not because I don't need them but because they need them more than I currently do. Same with money, I am saving small amounts that I shall direct towards a worthy cause.

Even more than material things, we can always give priceless gifts of love, compassion and attention. We really lose nothing in this flow. Life is not meant to be hoarded, for then it will stink. Let us give of all that we have. Let us share our world with the world!

I request all those are inspired to give and share to be a part of this beautiful website - The Freecycle Network. You can also join your local group to change the world one gift at a time.

What are your thoughts and ideas on sharing and giving? Don't you think it is a divine process?

[Image Source]

5 Reasons to Avoid Holi

2011-03-18T21:40:00.000+05:30

My 12th board exams are finally over and I'm back to what I loving doing best - blogging!! I'm sorry for being inactive, though not anymore..

This time, a blog post on Avoiding Holi..

Why You Should Avoid Holi 2011:

Image via Wikipedia

1. It is a criminal waste of water. We are already reeling under a severe water shortage and efforts are being made to save water. Celebrating Holi will only nullify those efforts and cause wastage of millions and millions of litres of a life-saving precious resource.

2. Holi colours are toxic and dangerous. In fact, most of the Holi colours are meant for industrial uses and are specifically not meant to be applied on humans.

3. Plastic water balloons hurt the environment. First of all, they are non-bio-degradable and the mess they create after the celebrations is terrible and difficult to dispose.

4. There is nothing like a 'Safe Holi'. In spite of all the precautions you might take, you will still be a victim of accidental injuries and exposed to all kinds of toxic colours.

5. It is an unproductive experience. Holi has lost its true meaning and celebrations have only turned superficial, leaving behind an empty feeling. Instead of transporting us into a state of bliss, Holi has only turned into 'hooliganism'.

Dear friends, please avoid celebrating Holi. The environment and its natural resources will be more than grateful to you!

Please spread this message to your family and friends, and enjoy Holi doing something intelligent and productive indoors.

I look forward to your comments and thoughts!

P.S. The Indian World shall resume with 'The European Chronicles' series along with articles on relevant and burning issues.

Your Moral Duty!

2010-09-07T20:44:00.002+05:30

The 2010 Commonwealth Games were one of the many dreams we saw as Indians. One of the opportunities that would help us prove to ourselves, our ability. To prove to the world, that we were way better than the best.

We pitched for it, and got the opportunity. A mammoth sum was sanctioned by the government. And we were supposed to get to work. But, unfortunately things didn’t go as we would have wished them to. And our first attempt at excellence failed. But…

Let this be the last time, we talk about failure.

Let this be the last time, we regret.

Let this be the first time we take a step ourselves, in the right direction.

Let us be the change, we want to see in others.

If you’re reading this and agree to help, we shall create a CWG Youth Crew. A team that will actually help the CWG Organizing Committee take the CWG on another level. A team that will not mind getting its hands dirty, in mud and sweat. The team will have a schedule based on which they would go to the venues and help these men. A team that would be the journey from failure to success.

We shall toil in the sun.

We shall climb to the stars.

We shall bask in the glory.

We shall live the dream.

I'm in, Now What Can We Do?

The answer to this question and many similar ones is right here. Its your moral duty to support this cause. You cant ignore this one if you're a caring Indian :

http://www.cheercwg2010.in

An Account of an Everyday Event

2010-07-31T20:20:00.008+05:30

This post has been published by me as a team member of The Wordsworth Legions for the GRAND FINALE of Bloggers Premier League (BPL) – The first ever unique, elite team blogging event of blog world. To catch the BPL action and also be part of future editions and other contests, visit and register at Cafe GingerChai

Alarms are the worst invention in the world!

It's 6 am - exercise time. Morning walks, gym trips or extra doses of sleep. Who says sleep is not a form of exercise?

The sun displays its sparkling feathers and the leaves gently whistle to the tune of the breeze. For people like me, this is the perfect time for sleep but there are obvious hurdles...

Like Mom switching off that fan. Splashing water on my face. Loud alarm snoozes...and what not?

I am forced to finally give in and get ready for college. As soon as I retain my sane consciousness, am busy in checking my GMail messages on my phone. It is a good feeling.

Come 8.30 am and am off in a private society bus to the railway station. Since my place is pretty far from the trains’, my stint of about 20-25 minutes in the bus is an interesting one. For company, I either have my music or a book to immerse in. Or else, I just stare in the blank space of the highway like a kid. The breeze hitting me reminds me of my past memories and again, shuts my eyes to feel the feeling!

On my way, there are a couple of things that really really annoy me. First being, the beautifully-designed political billboards. When it comes to developmental schemes, these guys have no money in their pockets and now, for their publicity, it seems they probably loot banks. These billboards are plastered all over the city with birthday wishes to party leaders and season’s greetings to people who stop and read. Another thing that irks me is the incredible quality of the monsoon roads. One heavy downpour and there are more potholes than the path itself. Why does this happen only in India? We have perennial rains in US and Europe, but the roads are hardly affected. Why? Just because we’ve got used to bumpy rides, no one wants to use high quality materials for construction.

So, by 9 o’clock, am climbing up and down to the railway platform. There are hundreds of others migrating here and there, powered with the potential of a mini-stampede. Dirt and litter make really creative borders and fences here. Railway tracks work as 24/7 dustbins. Same with train compartments. Used, abused and misused.

9.16 am is an important event in my life. This is when my local fast train arrives and the scene is a pretty common one, especially in Mumbai. No sooner does the train slow down, than people start rushing into it. ‘World War III’ is what I call it in my world. Hundreds of commuters rush in through the entry points like a blitzkrieg attack. Had there been automatic doors, they would have been crushed the very first day. Once I struggle my way in, I have prized seats waiting to be filled. I quickly grab one like a reward after such chaos.

Inside too, the music of the rush, the thrill and not to forget, the hawker sets in. I plan to utilize this time in a little academic affair. I start out with reading a textbook or some subject’s notes. Consistency prevails for another 10 minutes… and then, bang! Am nicely in deep sleep with the notebook as my hard pillow. With my vast experience in being a student, I can easily declare that academic books are the best sleep inducers. Once you get in the pleasant realm of sleep, external cacophony is hardly disturbing.

I wake up like a soldier when they announce, “Next station – C.S.T!” My 40 minute journey has been that of sleep, compensating for the morning hurdles as mentioned earlier. I am fresh and raring to go. An amazing 5 minute walk separates C.S.T and my college. Through this walk, I enjoy views of the Subway (which should be renamed as Godown for obvious reasons), the C.S.T architecture, the buzz of the main city and a notice board reading ‘Pin Code – 400001’. On the way, you find unemployed lawyers roaming aimlessly, several police jeeps, Cama Hospital and the destination!

St. Xavier’s College is a beautiful city, and I’m glad to be a part of it. Vibrancy and enthusiasm greets you at its gates and accompanies you throughout. There is never a typical, dull day here. I enjoy attending most of my lectures, which usually commence from 10.30 am right upto 3.30 pm with an hour lunch break in between. I have a rocking and crazy time with my fellows here, blended with humour and delight. There’s so much to say about my college… In fact, I could write a long essay on it and still not get done away with.

Evening strikes and I generally, leave for home, a place 45 kms away. Again the train ride, but with a less crowd this time. As it reaches Thane station, I waste no time to whoosh away in a share rickshaw.

By 5.30 pm, I am home, snacking on something quick. Just after this, I switch on my workstation mode and dedicate a few hours for my venture revolving around handwriting analysis. Once am done, we have a nice and peaceful family dinner around 8.30 pm.

Later in the night, either I read an interesting book, or surf the Internet or I probably just happen to study a little, by mistake.

After that, sleeps calls me and I quickly pick up the phone…

This may come across as a pretty mundane schedule, but it isn’t. I learn something new every single day and always have a check on my goals and dreams. By the way, did I tell you my daily routine is coated with layers of cheerful and excited vibes?

To read posts by other members of the Wordsworth Legion in the final Round, see here: Shilpa, Pujitha, Tavish, Hitesh, Kshitij, Vinita and Rahul

An imaginary trip into Hitler's psyche

2010-07-12T17:08:00.016+05:30

This post has been published by me as a team member of The Wordsworth Legions for the SUPER 3 round of Bloggers Premier League (BPL) – The first ever unique, elite team blogging event of blog world. To catch the BPL action and also be part of future editions and other contests, visit and register at Cafe GingerChai

30 April 2045

“Good morning students! It is a special day today...”, the black huge screen started as we all settled in our seats in the AMR room of our college.

We were a nation of happy and cheerful people. Our exceptional leaders had carved out a superpower country from India. Being No.1 in the world, we had the best education system in place. Schools and colleges boasted of digital presence, with incredible technology guiding our way throughout. Our nation came to be known as one of ‘dreamers and achievers’!

St. Xavier’s College in Mumbai, the country's financial capital, was always the first one to try out these state-of-the-art digital facilities. The best feature of these amazing systems in place was that, they could recreate the minds of eminent personalities in their specially designed rooms. These rooms were fitted with advanced motion sensors & brilliant sounds and lights. The Advanced Multi-Media Room (AMR) was one of the best places for digital and mind-blowing presentations.

Students loved this way, and professors found yet another innovative way to teach. Among recreating personalities, Mahatma Gandhi was the favourite. And now, for the first time ever, Adolf Hitler was being revisited here...

The screen gently lit up and the narration continued.

Adolf Hitler - the name has itself become synonymous with cruelty and brutality. We tend to label strict and hard people as ‘Hitler’ as a mere generalisation, ignoring the other facets of Hitler’s personality. To get into his psyche, we actually have Hitler’s brain with us here. After his death, it was cryogenically preserved and his brain mapping was done after careful research using advanced equipments. Here are the reviewed inferences...

They say, the greatest minds are capable of the greatest vices as well as of the greatest virtues. Hitler has rightly proven that, by being the former.

Let us start from his childhood. Hitler was born in the year 1889 and just when he was 11, he faced his first shock. His younger brother, whom he was very attached to, died of measles, and he lost all his confidence and strength, which made him totally dull and numb.

The scintillating lights in the room created a rare and morose picture of Hitler....

It is a well-known fact that experiences of any kind adversely affect a person for life. Young Hitler was a disturbed person. His father, being very strict and dominating, used to constantly thrash him. Conflicts arose, and Hitler became more and more rebellious. His school experience was again bitter, with Hitler having unpleasant encounters with his teachers. He was finally thrown out of high school due to misconduct and indiscipline. His father, an Austrian customs official, wanted Hitler to follow in his footsteps but he was least interested. He was never encouraged to do what he really wanted to. That is, being a painter. (Just imagine an Adolf Hitler engaging his entire life in painting!)

A struggling and tumultuous youth further affected his state of mind. He shifted his priorities to become an architect, without any success. Till the age of 24, only one word could describe his life - MISERABLE! In spite of all these personal obstacles, he was a very strong-willed person. He had high regard for his country and his patriotic sense was one of its kind.

Soft Indian national music chimed in and echoed through the entire room, uplifting everyone...

Soon, the commencement of World War I in 1914 changed him forever. He realized how other European nations were treating his German land with disgrace and disgust. This is what ignited him. Also, after the war, Germany was asked to sign a very humiliating Treaty of Versailles and was indirectly insulted by other nations. Adolf Hitler extremely loathed those Jewish leaders who had approved of this treaty, and who had also failed to defend Germany in times of crisis.

Over the times, Hitler’s rebellious nature converted into aggression and fierce action. WWI woke him up to the grim realities faced by his nation, he was deeply saddened, frustrated and revengeful. His anger guided him to enter into the political setup of Germany, as that was the only way in and out. Hitler was a very expressive person. His outstanding oratory skills connected with the local people and their emotions, and thus, he won majority seats for his party. Well, as he came to power....

A thunderous sound of gunfire gripped the room with the motion seats moving helter skelter. Panic. Terror. Never before were the students subjected to such brilliant artificiality.

Deep inside his mind, Hitler wanted to manifest his plans formed years ago. That of vengeance, hostility, force, power, domination and superiority. Hitler developed an uncanny and abnormal degree of pride and ego, calling himself the ‘best of the best’!

Once he was made Chancellor of Germany, he started rolling out a series of actions exclusively for the Jews. This included extreme torture, bondage and captivity in concentration camps. Again, Hitler acted this way just because of his personal vendetta and anger against those Jewish leaders from the times of WWI. He wanted to be a superior man and he actually implemented Charles Darwin's theory of 'Survival of the Fittest'. Race discrimination set in, and inequalities began to rise. Thus started one of the worst phases in the history of mankind - The Holocaust. More than 11 million people were killed in this business, and Hitler could finally seek revenge, though in an extreme manner.

Against all this background, Hitler was a true nationalist without any doubt. His love, respect and attachment to his Germany is exemplary. His development schemes improved Germany in 2 years, and such a radical change could not be brought about in even 20 years after his death!

Truly, Narendra Modi is Hitler for the massive development in his region, and Raj Thackeray is Hitler for his evoking and provoking speeches...

World War II was Adolf Hitler's favourite game. He loved seeking vengeance against other European countries for their humiliation and disgust earlier. He enjoyed battles and wars, and believed that only force can conquer the world! Let us realize that, such behaviour of Hitler was directly and indirectly related to his strict and authoritarian father who used to always beat him up...

Being the most influential person in Europe and practically the entire world in that time, leaders of other nations feared him. Mahatma Gandhi, the torch of non-violence had sent some of his pleasant and kind flames to Hitler, for only to be ignored. In fact, Hitler was the one who had even conspired to kill Gandhiji just because non-violence was his strong competitor.

Now, to capture Hitler's inner personality, let us analyze his character through his handwritten notes and letters...

The screen created a superb display of German ink:

An overview handwriting analysis of Mr. Hitler would go something like this....

Adolf Hitler was a very intelligent man with a brilliant and sharp mind. He held his emotions in high regard and his life revolved around it. This vulnerability to emotional incidents made him initiate the Holocaust and other irreversible destruction. A charming and dominating leader, he was also a true nationalist. He had fixed beliefs and perceptions in his mind, which he refused to change, adding to his rigid behaviour. He was very ambitious and was gifted with excellent will power. Had he used all his brilliant traits for the good, he would have definitely come out as an exceptional visionary in the history of the world...

This concluded our insightful presentation, modifying Hitler's perceptions in the minds of many present.

...And this how Adolf Hitler's 100th death anniversary was celebrated.

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To read posts by other members of the Wordsworth Legion in the Super 5 Round, see here:
Tavish, Shilpa, Pujitha, Vinita, Hitesh, Kshitij and Smitha!

Image Credit: Hitler's Brain - Hitesh Rawat

[Image Source]

Print Media v/s Electronic Media: End of Prints?

2010-06-28T19:32:00.000+05:30

This post has been published by me as a team member of The Wordsworth Legions for the SUPER 4 round of Bloggers Premier League (BPL) – The first ever unique, elite team blogging event of blog world. To catch the BPL action and also be part of future editions and other contests, visit and register at Cafe GingerChai

View. Counter View. Print media v/s electronic media: is it end of prints?

Media, right from the days of its inception, has been a powerful medium of communication. When it was a toddler, it existed in the form of manuscripts and then came, books and newspapers. With time, the media blended with technology to create interactive channels like the Internet, television and the mobile.

Comparing print media with its electronic counterpart is like debating between chocolates and ice-creams. Let’s see how…

Simply put, print media consists of everything printed. We have newspapers and magazines and booklets and so much more. Right from that retired teacher to the sales executive, and right from that typical housewife to the MBA aspirant, newspapers have been an all-time favourite. We find magazine subscribers in every nook and corner of train compartments, airport lounges and waiting rooms.

New and new newspaper editions are coming up. Editorials come packaged with incredible topics that actually click and connect. City headlines provide food for thought for every gossiping housewife. Sports sections attract and inspire budding young enthusiasts… And the entire edition gives out the perfect infotainment to every reader!

Now, let’s talk about the modern and the state-of-the-art electronic media…

According to a 2008 World Bank report, there are more than 51 million Internet users in India. Almost every household, urban or rural, boasts of a television set. Mobile Internet is on a crazy rise as technology witnesses developments almost every other day….

Now that social networking has become viral, news reporters are flocking to sites like Twitter and Facebook for the daily dose of gossip and updates. Internet penetration, especially in India has brought with it, an immense dependence on technology and the like. The Internet, as a whole, has become a treasure chest for every information-seeker on the Planet.

Electronic and digital stuff has revolutionized the mainstream media with its incredible super-fast information delivery systems and real-time updates of happenings in and around. So, does this really mean the end of prints…?

Not really.

Books are a man’s best friends. Same is with print media. You can live a day without the Internet, but being devoid of newspapers and magazines is simply unimaginable. The utter simplicity of staying updated with prints is incomparable and one of its kind. Although mobile Internet has brought the world at our fingertips, our fingers actually crave for that crispy paper designed with ink on it. Unlike those ‘Breaking News’ phenomenon in news channels, our publications tend to be simpler and smarter with to-the-point headlines and updates.

However, with computers at every household and workplace, we are too lazy to search for specific reports in newspapers. We would rather google it up and get our job done fast! It is a known fact that technology has made our lives easier and more comfortable, though caution needs to be exercised. The more we tend to rely on technology, the more we are prone to being at loss. Be it for any matter, too much dependence is obviously a no-no.

Whatever developments go through electronic media, print media is here to stay and rule, as it has done for centuries together. Newspaper publications won’t shut even if that street pauper starts owning a Twitter account…

Now, coming back to chocolates and ice-creams, you know, deep inside, we really can’t live forever without either…!

P.S. This news bulletin brought to you by the Wordsworth Legions team whose team members can be found below:

Shilpa, Smitha, Lazy Pineapple, Kshitij, Tavish and Hitesh

[Image Source]
[Image Source]

Blogger Almighty and the 12 Commandments!

2010-06-14T21:26:00.000+05:30

This post has been published by me as a team member of The Wordsworth Legions for the SUPER 5 round of Bloggers Premier League (BPL) – The first ever unique, elite team blogging event of blog world. To catch the BPL action and also be part of future editions and other contests, visit and register at Cafe GingerChai

If you are “Blogger Almighty”, what would be your 12 commandments to change the world – elaborate.

Changing the world is a challenging dream, for all dreams are meant to be fulfilled.

Starting from scratch, change is simply an action. An action that is more dreamt than fulfilled. The world needs change, not only for improving social conditions, but also for mere survival. Anyone can hope for a better tomorrow, though only men of steel can make it a reality.

Being The Almighty, I see things like fear, dark and frown here which I never created. They are bugs of my World, preventing an improved living.
Many on Earth talk of change, though it is a broad and abstract concept. It has to be understood that no world change can be initiated without YOUR involvement.

Some wise soul inscribed this text at Westminster Abbey in 1100 A.D. :

When I was young and free and my imagination had no limits, I dreamed of changing the world. As I grew older and wiser, I discovered the world would not change, so I shortened my sights somewhat and decided to change only my country.

But it, too, seemed immovable.

As I grew into my twilight years, in one last desperate attempt, I settled for changing only my family, those closest to me, but alas, they would have none of it.

And now, as I lie on my deathbed, I suddenly realize: If I had only changed myself first, then by example I would have changed my family.

From their inspiration and encouragement, I would then have been able to better my country, and who knows, I may have even changed the world.

To prevent any such regretful events, for the 21st and the coming centuries, I have laid down The 12 Commandments to change the world....

As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Be the change you want to see in the world". We can't change others; we can only change ourselves. As a result, when we change, it changes everything...

Changing the world is no child's play. A bumpy ride may have its challenges and distractions, but you have to drive through with full faith and resolute.

This prohibits the defensive attitude of being shut and rigid. Be open and flexible to ideas. Be alert and aware, for awareness is the beginning of change. And change is the beginning of more change...

Start something new, something better and something helpful. Initiatives are the one of the most powerful tools to encourage change in the society and the world, at large.

Before starting on this mission of changing the world, you first need to accept change in you and your life. This is the most important commandment!

In simple terms, no level of pretence can help you act and change. All you need to do, is to be natural. Start to live the way you want to see the world, or society changed, and do not compromise your ideals or your ethics.

Whatever you do, however you act, whatever you speak and however you see - Everything Counts! There are no small things in this world, because in the long run, those are the things that make ALL the difference!

Once you've changed yourself, you will find a new, changed world. Start with changing your circle of influence...

Our perception of looking at things control our ideas and beliefs. Hence, a positive attitude can keep us motivated and charged up to get up and do things. Negative thinking is a superb source for draining your energy and life. So, beware!

If you always keep on wondering what people will think about you, you will never be able to do anything. What people think should not be your concern, what you think about yourself should be.

Do something new and different. Always keep your mind occupied, for an idle mind is a devil's workshop, and an occupied mind is a brainstormer's workshop!

Remember - Actions speak louder than words...

Follow these commandments. Change the world.

The European Chronicles - Italy

2010-05-29T14:22:00.001+05:30

So, here we go with Italy...

How does it feel when you travel the entire day in a bus just to finally find a crooked building with nothing great in it?

This is how we started our travel experience at Italy, with our first stop at Pisa. And the 'crooked building' mentioned is none other than The Leaning Tower Of Pisa!

This tower at Pisa is seriously not worth the hype and hoopla!

Our next stop was at Rome, the capital city and an historical one too!

Rome is seriously a beautiful city with ancient artefacts, monuments, pillars and other structures dating to a thousand years back. In fact, you get a feeling of being in a city with ancient stuff scattered here and there! Re-visiting Rome would only be a wish of an art lover, a historian or an architect.

Shown below is the Colosseum, an amphitheatre mainly used for gladiator fights:

After Rome, we set out for Florence, the richest and the largest city in Europe in the 12th century.

Florence has been the chosen home for eminent figures like Leonardo Da Vinci, Galileo Galilei, Michelangelo, Dante, Machiavelli, Salvatore Ferragamo, Amerigo Vespucci etc. It is widely known for its extensive art and architecture, specially in the Renaissance period. Florence is regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, thanks to it's artistic and cultural heritage. It boasts of more than a hundred museums and many palaces around the place.

Here is an aerial view of Florence city:

We next moved to Venice, a very beautiful and romantic city. It stretches across 117 small islands, accessed by boats and gondolas. It attracts a lot of tourists due to its pleasant climate, picture-perfect looks, luxury shops and boutiques, gondola rides and canals. According to Wikipedia, Venice is one of the most important tourist destinations in the world, due to the city being one of the world's greatest and most beautiful cities of art.

View from a Gondola!

Though endowed with so many buildings and monuments, Italy is a rather boring country which can anytime be skipped in any tour. It's people are outright manipulative, shrewd and perfect liars. There have been many cases of tourists being cheated here in Italy. In fact, once, a few years ago, even my Dad was robbed of his money. Italians are not at all trustworthy. And the worst part is, coffee shops charge their customers even for the music being played in the background. Air Italia, their national airlines, is also disgusting with unco-operative crew members.

The reason Italy attracts so many tourists, is only because they aggressively market their tourist sights and attractions. There are clothes, souvenirs and other items with monuments and structures printed on them. There are also a lot of 'I love Italy', 'I love Rome', etc. T-shirts that are the best way of marketing their cities. This feature is the only thing we need to develop in our India... Let's preserve our heritage sites and let's publicize them well!

That's all for Italy. Our next destination is Austria.. So, do stay updated!

P.S. I shall be again away for a week, since am travelling to my native Ahmedabad. So, the next update shall possibly come around 4th or 5th June.

The European Chronicles - Monaco

2010-05-27T23:47:00.002+05:30

Reminds us of the biscuit name, but in reality, Monaco is just like a tiny biscuit...

Monaco is the 2nd smallest country in the world with an enormous area of 1.95 square kilometres. It is basically a principality surrounded by France from three sides. It's small size doesn't stop Monaco from constructing skyscrapers every now and then.

Monaco is simply famous for 2 things - the Formula One Grand Prix races and the grand casino at Monte Carlo. It is a tax haven country, and people here are ridiculously rich and usually possess high-end sports cars.

Even though this is a pretty tiny place, it serves as a beautiful tourist destination with awesome hotels overlooking the gorgeous Mediterranean Sea!

The below image is of the very famous casino at Monte Carlo..

Monaco is a very well maintained monarchy with the head being Prince Albert II. It features a smooth administration, excellent city planning, crystal clean Mediterranean waters and no crime rate at all!

That's all for Monaco, a small post for a small ~~biscuit~~ nation. Coming up next is Italy, the home ground of the pizzza and the UPA Prezzzident... So, stay tuned!

The European Chronicles - France

2010-05-25T00:37:00.005+05:30

How does it feel when something you've always desired finally comes true?
For me, it was a foreign trip. Pending since 8 years!

Date: 2 May 2010
Place: Charles De Gaulle Airport, Paris, France
Local Time: 1400 Hours
Tour Operator: Thomas Cook India
Mission of Tour Operator: 11 countries in 18 days

"I don't believe it! Is this sort of a dream?", said something inside me....

Why didn't it all look the same? There were roads there. There were cars. Traffic. Farmlands. People. Food. Hotels. We have all of that here, as well. Then why didn't it look the same?

On my way to the hotel from our airport, I noticed every single detail of the city with obvious curiosity. Paris didn't look like Mumbai or any other city in India. Forget Paris, the entire continent of Europe was something different and unique. It was appealing! Back there up in Europe, words like discipline, precision and rules hold a lot of heavy meaning. We have cars that follow a speed limit. They fear changing lanes. At the first glance, such kind of a system looked amusing and automatic at the same time. There were farms edited to perfection. There were trees organized with meticulous planning. There were punctual transport systems. Nature was taken care of. This kind of disciplined city planning extended to such an extent, that at the end, it seemed like a beautiful piece of art!

Coming back to France, I had a lot of expectations from this country. Being a French student, I had learnt a lot about this nation. France was delightful and Paris, even more! Paris is a treat for every art student, every history buff, every romantic soul and every tourist. It is a city which shines with elegance and grins with sparkling bright colours through the night. For me, Paris is the most charming city in the world!

The Paris city cruise on the river Seine is quite renowned and appreciated. It explores some of the most artistic bridges, public building on the river side, cathedrals, monuments and museums. Louvre Museum, known to be the longest museum in the world, was on my wishlist and it still does. Courtesy the tour itinerary! Anyway, after our cruise tour, we were treated to the Lido Show. The Lido Show is a an excellent cabaret event with incredible performing artists. We, including our entire tour group of 40 people couldn't enjoy it to the fullest since we were all dead tired and sleepy by then.

New day. New show. Disneyland was our destination. Though we went through amateurish rides and experiences, that place did remind me a little of my childish self. Disneyland is every child's dream and paradise place. WOW! Wish we could have something similar in our metro cities. Meanwhile, Notre Dame, Arc De Triomphe, Champs-Élysées and other buildings played cameo roles. The evening was the best part. That did tell me we were really in Paris - The Eiffel Tower!

The Eiffel Tower is a magnificent piece of engineering. We went right up to the top, at the summit. 276 metres high, the city of Paris looked beautiful as ever. You've got to really experience that stunning view from the top. One can never imagine Paris without the Eiffel Tower. It's what you call, the very foundation of the beauty of this city. No wonder, Paris was the most beautiful city in my entire tour.

Next stop was Nice, a coastal city to the south of France. The TGV - France's fastest train - was our transport route. Known as the train à grande vitesse (High Speed Train), it can clock speeds up to 320 km/h. Seen below is the TGV beside me!

The TGV is not only reputed for its speed, but also for its luxurious and comfortable ride. Just unlike our Mumbai local trains. I wish we could have such brilliant train systems here in India!

Nice (pronounced as the English word 'niece') was definitely nice! Pristine beaches, novelty shops and a beautiful place to stay. It's coast was just the ditto version of our very own Marine Drive!
Here's another snap with trams going round their way...

Our next destination was Cannes. Cannes is basically a tiny city, but is extremely famous for its yearly Film Festival which is held in every May. We reached Cannes about a week before the International Film Festival were to take place, but we could definitely witness the ongoing preparations for it. The city mainly boasts of a lovely seafront and 5 star hotels usually reserved for celebrities and film stars who throng to the annual Film Festival.

I hope you enjoyed reading this experience in France. Coming up next, is a small, pretty principality named Monaco. So, stay updated!

India, Europe and Me!

2010-05-23T00:40:00.001+05:30

Hello Everyone, I'm finally back to blogging and it feels great!

Why do we perceive India as we do? Why do we admire its greatness and rubbish its drawbacks? Why is India a country that goes through so many changes, and yet remains the same old India?

India remains the same. Only our perspective changes. Our beliefs and our values modify. That's obviously all because of our circumstances and situations, right? For those who are unaware of, I recently made a trip to Europe and experienced it for about 18 days. That was the time when the India in my mind slightly changed. One of my friends, Sahil puts it wonderfully -

We realize the importance of things only when they are temporarily not available.

This is the only factor that makes NRI's sometimes respect India more than we do. My voyage had its unique share of twists and turns, which is what made me value India even more. Having visited 11 countries in 18 days, I have many experiences to share with all of you, my dear readers. So, from now onwards, I start a 11-post series, a post for each country, narrating my accounts, uncovering facts and understanding new ideas, along with running parallel to the Indian counterpart.

I hope you all enjoy this 'European Chronicles' series.

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Ads4Good - the best thing that happened to social service!

2010-04-11T12:39:00.002+05:30

I recently got an e-mail from a volunteer of Ads4Good for inviting me to join this cause. Usually, I ignore such promotional offers, but this one caught my attention, and it will catch yours too!

Ads4Good is basically a platform to engage people in the act of giving. It is a unique initiative which allows everyone with a blog or a website to raise funds for their favourite cause for free!

Here's a screenshot of the main website launched in 2009:

On a personal front, I feel Ads4Good is a very innovative and simple way to give back to the society by choosing a particular cause. At the moment, this venture supports Education, Poverty, Environment and Animal Rights.

Here's the modus operandi of this initiative:

Anyone with a blog or a website can install Ads4Good widgets on their site. (I just did on my sidebar!)
For every click on these ad widgets, the generated money is used to support your favourite cause. (Mine is education)
After installation of these widgets, you get regular reports on your ads and your contribution to your cause.

Ads4Good is an easy and sustainable way one can contribute to the society. It is seriously the best thing that ever happened to social service!

I request all those who have a website or a blog to join Ads4Good and help serve the society in their own little way!

What are your thoughts about this superb initiative?

How To Make The Most Out Of Facebook!

2010-04-09T14:32:00.005+05:30

Image via Wikipedia

Did you know there are more than 7 million Facebook users in India?

Since Facebook has earned so much popularity in India, here is an interesting post for all Facebook lovers, and also for those who don't prefer it much...

Facebook is a wonderful social networking site. Making the most out of it with effective usage lies in our own hands. So, here are a few pointers on how you can enhance your experience at this hugely popular social networking site:

Join Facebook Fan Pages and Groups. This will help you expand your knowledge base by interacting with other members. Engaging in fruitful discussions will definitely broaden your horizons in several ways. Managing Fan Page and Group updates can be a little challenging, though. Ensure that you join fan pages and groups only due to your interest and passion, and nothing else. Some interesting and extremely active Fan Pages on India are The Indian World, AwakIND and India Together.
Share your knowledge with your friends. Engage in productive discussions through statuses, post updates and Facebook Chat. Here, 'productive discussions' doesn't mean rambling about your new dog, but sharing views with each other for an enriching experience. Remember this:

Share your knowledge. It is a way to achieve immortality. ~ Dalai Lama

Change your mentality of looking at Facebook. It is not a timepass site, but a platform for social networking. Make new friends, interact and enjoy the experience, but don't let it waste your precious time!
Declutter your Facebook account. Delete all Fan Pages and Groups, which you would not like to be a part of. Also, defriend those whom you don't know...
Enhance your feed sections, i.e. Top News and Most Recent feeds. This can be done by removing all stupid applications and permanently blocking them off. Just click on the 'Hide' button for any particular application posted on your feed and block it for ever! Here's a screenshot after you click on a friend's application updates on your home page:

What would you like to add to this list? Your thoughts please...

Welcome To Summer 2010!

2010-03-31T23:03:00.002+05:30

Welcome to Summer 2010...

We've already witnessed hot winters and warm monsoons....

I don't know how scorching our Indian summers are going to be...

There was a time when we used to eagerly look forward to our summers, but now it has become a perennial activity. Climate change and global warming, as anyone would point out as the culprit. But the real culprit is You. Me. We.

What's say?

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The Reality Of Reality Shows!

2010-03-20T12:02:00.000+05:30

About 10 years ago, in 2000, India witnessed the start of one of its first and finest reality shows, Kaun Banega Crorepati hosted by Amitabh Bachchan....

...After that, we've had a plethora of reality television shows here in India.

Now, the equation of reality TV is slowly and steadily changing. It is turning to be more manipulative and unreal these days. We have all types of reality shows now. Competition shows, musical shows, challenging shows, talk shows, game shows and so much more...

The latest of the lot, Emotional Atyachar, as we all know, is aimed at taking a loyalty test on partners and their infidelity. Though it may sound a little awkward to expose these stints, it has turned out to be one of the most popular shows among younsters. I don't understand what kind of entertainment is derived by watching someone cheat on his/her partner, and that too, live.

At the helm of reality TV, we also have music shows and competitions. Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, the popular music show has been running for a very long time now. Earlier, when it started in 1995, it was a real thing and devoid of manipulation. But through the passage of time, along with other shows like Amul STAR Voice of India and Music Ka Maha Muqqabla, politics and manipulation has found its way into all this. Results are decided beforehand, partiality has entered, talent is misused and organizers do nothing but mint money.

Look at Indian Idol, it is currently busy in auditions for its 5th series. People participate hoping to expose their talent. But in return, they get looted and cheated badly. An insider source tells me that most of the music competition shows have a procedure for contestants who have passed the auditions. These contestants are trained by the show organizers in light vocal training with a fee of Rs. 3 lakhs. This simply indicates that shows are out to loot people... And what if, those trained contestants don't last for long in the show? Their invested money is all gone...

Another revealing fact is about the method of voting in such shows. When you vote for a contestant by SMS, the cash goes in the pockets of sponsors and show organizers. Even so, reality shows also make up fake voting statistics and award victory to a finalist on their own will.

It is really interesting to see how reality programmes are turning into a matter of rehearsed commentary and unethical practices. They are on the verge of entering fiction now.

What are your views about the turning tide of reality television in India? Do you have any further examples to cite about such manipulation? How do you think can we eliminate such weeds from reality television programmes?

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Place Of Honour - INDIA!

2010-03-17T21:58:00.000+05:30

A guest post by Nalini Hebbar:

Reclaim you place, Oh Motherland,

your rightful place of honour,

From you rose the spoken word

and from you, computing began,

With no bloodshed on battlefields

you conquered the world of yore,

With peace and love the only weapon

you invisibly ruled every continent,

Reclaim your place, Oh Motherland,

your rightful place of honour,

Reclaim you place, Oh Motherland,

your rightful place of honour,

Countries with history written in blood

lead with coercion behind the smiles,

But you, with a mixed bag of genes

have greeted strangers as progeny,

Into the grains of your soil integrated,

the sweat and tears of races aplenty.

Reclaim your place, Oh Motherland,

your rightful place of honour,

Reclaim you place, Oh Motherland,

your rightful place of honour,

Where wisdom flowed from sharp minds

to distant shores far and wide,

Be that land that a beacon was

teaching the world, the art of living.

If there is a country that deserves to lead,

It is you, Oh Motherland,

reclaim your place, Oh Motherland,

your rightful place of honour.

March 5, 2010

The author, Nalini Hebbar is an Aquaculture Consultant based in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh. She blogs at Open Mind, a poetry blog and SayCheese, her photoblog. You can also check out her other guest post, A Salute To You, a hard-hitting and powerful poem about struggling women.

[Image Source]

What are your thoughts about this beautiful poem on our Motherland's compassion and glory?

The 'Perfect' Technology Of Spirituality!

2010-03-15T12:41:00.001+05:30

Technology of Spirituality...
...What do you think this term could mean?

Anyway, here I am sharing with you a couple of videos titled 'Technology of Spirituality'!

These videos speak about our ancient India, our spirituality, our saints and our civilisation. In short, these video series are here to prove that India was definitely 'The Golden Bird' in the olden ages with incredible and amazing facts laced with a little of humour.

This is actually a talk presented by Khurshed Batliwala, director of World Alliance for Youth Empowerment at Ruia College, Mumbai. He is a post graduate in Mathematics from the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay. In his own words, he decided it was better to teach people meditation and make them happy rather than teach them mathematics and make them miserable and thus chose the unconventional and challenging career path as a faculty member of the Art of Living, sharing the vision of its founder, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, which is to see a smile on every face on the planet.

Here are 2 videos from the 7 part series. If you are unable to view them here, you can watch them directly on Youtube here!

Video 1:

Video 2:

I am sure you must have loved these videos!

By the way, what's your take on this?

A Paradox Residing In Mumbai

2010-03-12T22:21:00.000+05:30

So, here is another picture for the Photograph Of The Week series...

[Photograph sourced from mfitch at Flickr]

This is an under-construction picture of Atilia, the world's largest private residence in Mumbai. This is being made by Mukesh Ambani for his family and his fleet of vehicles.

So, as the title goes, what's the paradox about this news...?

Mumbai, where Mukesh Ambani is personally funding the world's largest private residence, is also home to Dharavi, Asia's biggest slum, that shelters over 1 million people.

- from 5 Paradoxes Of Our India

A whooping $1 billion is the cost required to construct this high-rise and customised skyscraper. It is also going to be one of the tallest buildings in Mumbai. In short, the Ambanis are taking luxury to an altogether new level...

...But the biggest joke is that this tower is going to house only 6 family members with a massive fleet of 168 cars, three helipads, a theatre and 600 staffers for its upkeep.

At the same time, India is facing enormous land shortage problems. There's hardly any space left for constructing residential buildings. In fact, builders are now encroaching on forests and jungles to make way for high rise buildings. Land is a scarce commodity now and we need to use it resourcefully...

On one side, we have industrialists building customised towers and on the other, there are people who are dying in slums and other pathetic places.

With such modern technology in civil engineering, Antilia-like structures can be home to at least a thousand people thus making full use of land.

I don't know where are we leading now...

What are your comments about the land being used, misused and abused by our people? Do you think building such state-of-the-art structures is practical enough in a nation where a secured home has become a rare thing now? Please do share your thoughts on this...

An Interview With A Politician!

2010-03-09T22:43:00.001+05:30

This post is about a short interview session I had with a politician. This politician has played an active part in Congress from a long time now.

Let me also clarify here that I do not support Congress in any way. In fact, I do not support any political party at the moment. This is just an excerpt about the politician's view of politics...

Name: Bhanwarsingh N Rajpurohit

Active Since: 1965

Currently holding the following positions:
Trustee - Mumbai Port Trust (Ministry of Shipping, R.T. & Highways, Govt. Of India)
Vice President - Mumbai Regional Congress Committee
Member - All India Congress Committee

I entered his cabin. Too huge, but looked simple. A photo of him with Sonia Gandhi adorned the wall. Gods and goddesses were gently placed on a cupboard. The desk boasted of a boring telephone, a notepad, two pairs of spectacles, a cordless bell, a pen stand and nothing else. The man in question, Bhanwarsingh N Rajpurohit, was an old, strong man. Here are the excerpts of the questions I asked him...

Why is politics treated as a dirty subject by the general public?

That's because ministers and politicians have made it dirty. There are a few honest people in this system, but they are often suppressed.

We always find political parties engaging in catfights and blame-games. Why so? Why would a party give a chance to criticism if it does its job properly?

Look, this blame-game will go on, no matter how much we try to solve it. Even if we do something good for the people, there's always this opposition to find faults and condemn our actions. There's no remedy to this now.

Do you realize that this blame-game is actually generating hatred and prejudice among the masses? Instead of developing the nation, it is actually creating a divide. There should be love and brotherhood among the people, and here we have the complete opposite...

Nods his head.

Politics is turning into a nastier and dirtier game every other day. In fact, it has also seeped into religion, sports, communities and every other thing now. What's your take on this?

Hahaha! Yes, true. Politics has entered almost every aspect of our society. Politics has even entered households now! Greed has spoiled the minds of people.

Why don't we change this corrupt system? Why don't we at least make a start to shut down this nuisance? You are at a pretty high post and have the power to do things. Why don't you raise your voice against corruption and dishonesty?

Nah! I don't think anything can be done about it. If you want to make a start to change all this, you need to be a powerful person with a strong support base. In fact, even I can do nothing about it. Power is support. If I raise my voice, all my power will be snatched away, you see. And even if you wish to change something, what all will you change? This corruption, this red-tapism, this bribery is happening all over the country. What can you do about it? If you want to end corruption, you need to be the Prime Minister or something of that sort. This corruption and manipulation can only end if the highest level people take some action...

Later, I left his office thinking about the enormity of this situation. Our country should not go in the dregs because of weeds like corruption, bribery and red-tapism. I did feel disappointed, but I also learnt a little about the mentality of politicians.

Still I believe, everything is not lost yet and we need to have hope.

What are your views about this short-interview? Were you satisfied with the responses this politician gave? Or would you also like to share some of your thoughts and ideas here?

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A Woman's Day and her Bill...

2010-03-08T16:42:00.001+05:30

First of all, I would like to wish the women in every household of this world a Happy Women's Day!

The other day, Vidya Balan added her views about Women's Day in Bombay Times:

Women’s Day doesn’t mean too much to me. It shouldn’t be a one-off thing over which we make a lot of hoo-ha. As women, if we don’t celebrate our womanhood throughout the year, what’s the point? And then, an argument: I don’t mean to sound sexist or feminist, but why don’t we celebrate Men’s Day too? Is it because every other day is men’s day? Humanity is about mankind. But, to use a sociological term, a veiled attempt is being made here at the perpetuation of patriarchy!

Today, it is also a historic day in the political system of our country. Both the houses of Parliament are going to consider the issue of 33% reservation of seats for women in Parliament and put it to vote. This day has come after a serious and long wait of 14 years...

But do we actually require this Bill to be passed in a country where the minority has become majority and the simple, common man is now a minority? Just think about it... We talk so much about gender equality and liberty, so why this madness? A Congress spokesperson justified this issue by saying, "Women form 50% of the population and they should also be given adequate representation in the Parliament".

Let me clarify 1 thing - India needs the representation of the people, and not of gender. This Women's Reservation Bill is capable of creating another gender divide in the society. If seats are reserved for women in Parliament, then soon we shall have this kind of reservation in every company for employment, and in every aspect of social living. Why this inequality? In the history of India, there has never been a time when men and women were treated equally.

In the first place, why do we even need to reserve seats for women? Do they lack skills and opportunities in today's world? Women are proving to be as capable as men, and they are exploring various horizons. Women are given enough opportunities to achieve all this, so why should we extend this to reservation of seats? I feel women have the potential to achieve whatever they want. So why don't they stand up and contest for elections on their merit? Who is stopping them to get involved in politics?

The only barrier between women and unparallel achievements is a belief. Women have this mentality that they are supposed to be submissive and inferior to men. When this belief will be cleared, everything will fall in its place. In fact, Chronicwriter also quotes something relevant in a paradoxical manner:

You know she is an Indian woman when she demands for equal rights even though she knows that she dominates man.

I am not against the Women's Reservation Bill. It's just that, it makes no sense whatsoever in passing such a Bill. If the Government really wants to reserve seats, let those seats be for women from backward regions who hardly get a chance to express their thoughts and have no opportunity to excel. The urban, literate woman need not be privileged to such reservations. They are intelligent and strong enough to participate in elections and win a seat in the Parliament on their own merit. They have plenty of scope to excel in politics and in fact, women should take part in managing our nation's democracy.

India is a nation of reservations. In fact, these minority groups like SC's, ST's, NT's, OBC's etc are a group of privileged people. They have a reserved share in almost every sector of the society. Prestigious government posts ranging from Chief Minister and Governor right up to the President of India are mostly dominated by these minority groups and women. It is sad to know that a common man has become a minority case in today's world...

Let equality prevail...

जय हिंद!

Please do share your views and thoughts about this issue... In fact, I'd love to hear women's opinions about this Bill. Do you guys really feel that passing this Bill will be beneficial for our democracy?

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Time Travel

2010-03-06T10:30:00.002+05:30

This post has been published by me as a part of the Blog-a-Ton 8; the eighth edition of the online marathon of Bloggers; where we decide and we write. To be part of the next edition, visit and start following Blog-a-Ton.

To travel or not to travel, that is the question.

-- Mr. Time

Time is a beautiful yet mysterious concept. Time transcends all borders and boundaries. It has seen what no one can ever see in his/her lifetime. If there's anyone who has seen the reign of Ashoka as well as that of Sachin Tendulkar, it is time. I'd like to share one stanza of a poem I had written about time for my post, 'Watch Your Time':

Time is a dimension,
Of seconds, minutes and hours.
And not a calculator,
To measure conflicts and Wars.

When we talk of Time Travel, is this actually possible? We have numerous movies and books based on time travel, but this concept is still not a plausible one...

Something to ponder on - What is Time Travel? Is it time travelling through the ages, as the name says..or is it humans travelling through time which is practically impossible!

Time is constant. It is always travelling. It has changed civilizations, created cities, modernised the world..and what not? Here are a few instances of time travelling through decades and generations:

India

Residence

Mahatma Gandhi

Mumbai

This is how Time has changed India...

...And now is the time for India to change the Time!

What are your views about Time Travel and its effects on India? Do you think travelling through time can actually benefit us and what are its possibilties? I'd love to hear your ideas and opinions on this topic...!

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The fellow Blog-a-Tonics who took part in this Blog-a-Ton and links to their respective posts can be checked here. To be part of the next edition, visit and start following Blog-a-Ton.

A Salute To You

2010-03-04T00:00:00.007+05:30

A guest post by Nalini Hebbar:

The art of survival

Of lying and of seduction.

An art learnt practiced to perfection

Six mouths waiting open and demanding

Screamed in her ear words of loathing

A life in the slums of death and starvation

Early lessons in survival

Lessons a plenty

With eager teachers ever lurking

Lusty old hands in the narrow lanes

Seize the tender body forever hurting

With a sinking heart she discovers

Hectors many, with favours in the asking

Vend and receive

A saviour in sight

Young man of thirty, double her age

On a horse, her escape came riding

Kick starts the art of coy and daring

Soon he was hers with tongue dangling

Done with the scum, the penny-pinching

Newfound wings of flight

Life in paradise

New home, food on the table

Bright dreams of future and babies

Life now happy, too happy and stable

But cruel fate has a way with destinies

The husband so fine and so able

Give her no money for sustenance

She with two children in renewed trouble

Forced back into the life of the streets

Harsh life-dance

Hardened heart

A shield of dispassion around the heart

To wear day and night in the arctic effort

Just a job to be done with no warmth

Just something to keep-on fire and hearth

Alive in death

Toughened mind

Scores of males with dissatisfied vices

All kinds of jobs and new learned skills

In and out, tried and tested

Bar dancer, hospital worker

Maid, juice vendor, singer

Ready to master anything offered

This fight in life forever challenged

Unscarred and strong

Tempered steel

In the menacing jungle of life

Always positive with the head in charge

She is a creation of the modern world

Made by the world that’s a man’s world

Learned survival using him in his world

His debauchery her prized weapon

A double-edged sword

I respect your strength

I salute you.

(May, 2006, Nellore)

This poem is a tribute to one strong woman in Maharastra, India, and to millions of brave women all over the world, who are forced by circumstances to take up the world’s oldest profession. The woman I am talking about is Vaishali Haldankar, now writing her story in a book in Marathi, which will be out soon. She is a good singer and now earns a living singing with an orchestra after the Government enforced a ban on dance bars.

The author, Nalini Hebbar is an Aquaculture Consultant based in Nellore, Andhra Pradesh. She blogs at Open Mind, a poetry blog and SayCheese, her photoblog.

Image by Hanadi Traifeh via Flickr

Do drop in your views about this thought-provoking and hard-hitting poem...

Hindustan Ka Dil Dekho!

2010-03-02T15:45:00.003+05:30

In my earliest post India Revisited, I had received the following comment:

The best of India, grain, fruit, cloth, intelligence, spirituality, yoga - is always exported first - it never reaches the common man. If you look at the people interested in mining India's wisdom, most of them are westerners than local. Be it the knowledge in the four Vedas or new applications of Indian classical music, the rest of the world is more interested in it than India. Startling example: people wanting to preserve Taj Mahal.

-Sanket Korgaonkar

True, isn't it?

India is a vast country with diverse richness in culture and heritage. But what's the use of this culture which we can't even be proud of? Foreigners are way ahead of us, and they know better about India than we do. All we can do is scribble our names on heritage sites and then ask UNESCO for funds for its preservation. Is that ethics?

Talk about Yoga and spirituality. Nowadays, yoga is being revived here because of the startling interest and popularity of it in the West. The above-quoted comment speaks of simple reality which should bring us to shame. Everything is exported first. Even our supercomputer-brains and talents.

It is a fact that we don't appreciate the paradise in our backyards, but tend to love foreign and artificial stuff.

We need to know India. Discover its mysteries and appreciate its impeccable beauty. Encourage the talent and allow the wisdom to grow. Understand the spiritual nature of things and explore the human nature. As I would put it, India is a complex simplicity.

Here is an advertisement that is relevant and very insightful. Innovated by the Madhya Pradesh - India Tourism to promote tourism, this awesome commercial is a little more than that. Have a look:

This ad not only highlights the structures and monuments of the Dil of Hindustan (Madhya Pradesh), but also underlines the fact of considering and appreciating these marvels.It is a great feeling to know that our, Indian minds can think of such beautiful and creative ideas. We are a great intellectual resource, being constantly looted by the West. Let that not happen anymore...

It is definitely a matter of shame that foreign scholars are better equipped than us in our Indian knowledge and wisdom.

It is time to renew our interest in our country and revisit its splendid culture, wisdom and knowledge. Hindustan Ka Dil Dekho!

What do you think we could do in learning and exploring our India? Do share your views and comments...

P.S. If you want a small laugh, watch the above video without the sound. It's hilarious!

Nature-Turned Abstract Photography!

2010-02-28T12:48:00.002+05:30

Here is another one for the Photograph Of The Week series...

Sometimes carelessness can also lead to a work of art...

This picture looks more of abstract and less of nature.

In fact, such a combination of Thane city lights and dry trees cannot look any more real and scary!

This is yet another India!

What can you make out of this photograph? What was your first impression of this piece of art? Do drop in your views and ideas...

Please Welcome Our Unholy Holi...

2010-02-27T00:00:00.002+05:30

Holi is around the corner, and the the whole of India is busy in preparations...

Some have plans to sprinkle colour all over the place. Some have plastic balloons ready to be attacked with. Some have spare water to throw on friends, family and relatives...

...And the country has millions of tonnes of extra water to waste on the D-Day, right?

Where are we going?? Where have all those 'Save Water' campaigns disappeared all of a sudden? Don't they realize a significant amount of our nation's water is spent just in a couple of hours' play for excitement and fun?

All festivals give us something or the other, either by family gatherings or a chance to munch on delicacies and sweets. Let us not discontinue this tradition. Holi, as an Indian festival, has been degraded so very much that it takes more than what it gives...

Holi is more than just massive wastage of water....

As IndiaParenting.com quotes,

Scars I bear,
Till date make me scared.
Colours I shared,
Have made me visually impaired.

Holi was never meant to be a dangerous and risky affair, specially for children. As we modernize, so do our festivals. We now have sophisticated holi pastes, wet colours and other synthetic colours which cause more harm than pleasure. These lovely and modern colours, if used, can bless us with mind-blowing gifts like cancer, impaired vision, respiratory problems, eye allergy, temporary blindness, etc..etc...

At any given time in India, hospitals are busy attending patients suffering from various ailments and disorders. Why do we want to add to this long list of suffering by celebrating our so-called modern Holi? Why do we want to intentionally reduce our productivity at work by playing with fire?

Children love celebrating the festival of Holi. In fact, they should. But, today's parents seem to be a little more careful. Children are always equipped with an oil layer on their skin to prevent any colour from harming them. They enjoy themselves so much so in colours and in water that they end up looking unrecognisable!

As I would point out, like several others, the real essence of Holi has been somewhat forgotten by today's generation. I do not want to get into the details about it's origin here, but I just wish to remind you all it's purpose and essence. Holi is meant to bring people together and forget social divides. According to Hindu tradition, Holi helps the people to believe in the virtue of being truthful and honest and also to fight away the evil.

It is time we become a little eco-friendly this year...

No, no.. I am not asking you to completely give up Holi. You can definitely enjoy with safe and natural colours. In fact, scientists believe that playing with colours helps to promote good health and they have a great impact on our body. So, safe colours are not a problem, but please do not include the element of water. Water intensifies everything. Your colour stains and even sometimes, your cold and any injuries, if you have.

Please celebrate Holi as an aware and concerned citizen of this country....

HAPPY HOLI!

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