Silently We Scream

Ramayana: The Game of Life

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Fri, 20 Feb 2015 17:43:00 +0000

Mythology as a genre has always attracted my attention. I have read various versions to The Mahabharata and have extracted so much out of each journey into the past. On Ramayana, I haven’t read a lot except the simpler and not-much-detailed version known to everyone. When I saw Ramayana: The Game of Life by Shubha Vilas, I was thrilled. I could finally lay my hands on some piece of literature on Ramayana. This is the second book in the series and I got easily drawn into the story, despite missing the first book. The writing is simple and the expressions in some places are quite impressive.

From a look at the cover and at the pages, one can see that a lot has been put into this book. There are a total of nine chapters, which have been further divided into sub-chapters with relevant titles. On giving information, the author has done a splendid job. He has provided extensive footnotes on everything that might need explanation. Everything that could have been explained has been explained. A lot of attention has been given to detail—detail in thoughts, emotions, events, rituals, surroundings, characters, relationships, etc.

The author literally takes us back to that time. The entire feeling of a happy and prosperous kingdom, the rituals, the serenity, the thrill and excitement, the colourfulness and richness of a ceremony—it can all be experienced through this book.

Vilas makes us witness the mental struggles of Dasaratha (we get to read every thought, such good luck!), how and why he decides to pass on the throne to Rama and many more of his dilemmas. We, as readers, also explore how Ravana was born and later on given the name Ravana, what circumstances led to Rama’s exile and how Lakshamana and Sita accompanied him.

A few things that have been highlighted very well in this book are:

· The happy kingdom where decisions are made in an unbiased way

· The way a king looks at his people, with the feeling to protect and serve them

· The kings and queens also go through their own personal set of dilemmas and difficulties just like everyone else

· The beauty of rituals and celebrations

· The purity and goodness of all relationships (between the king and his people, father and son, husband and wife, and among siblings)

The reason we can so easily relate to the events and story is that all characters go through situations and dilemmas just the way we do. They have moments of joy, sorrow, misfortune, anger, pride just the way we do. We also learn a lot about human lives and relationships, how complex and simple they can be at different points in life. There are lessons and messages for all of us.

On the weakness bit, I only felt that in some places the transitions could have been smoother as it was slightly difficult to relate to a change in thought or event. Except this, the book is rich in detail and description. I got to know so much about the characters and events, including the lesser-known stories which would have otherwise escaped my attention.

Reading is a journey, an experience, which is different for everyone. Incidents and experiences, irrespective of their descriptions, leave a different impact on every reader; they can never be the same for everyone. So, irrespective of what I say here, go create your own experiences and perceptions. Also, make sure you take pauses in between as this particular journey could be an exhaustive one (of course, in a good way)!

This review is a part of the biggest Book Review Program forIndian Bloggers. Participate now to get free books!

Chanakya's New Manifesto

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Thu, 21 Feb 2013 18:01:00 +0000

Chanakya's New Manisfesto, the name itself sounds so interesting and makes us wonder what it's going to be about. The blurb on the back cover takes the excitement and impatience to another level. It says, "We cannot continue as we are, and must gather the resolve to bring in effective governance, a true-democracy, a corruption-free State... If we fail, India will never succeed. Our future is at stake."
What is Chanakya's new manifesto?

You certainly can't wait after reading this. The activist inside you wants to know what these changes are because the current state of the country is making everyone worry.

Pavan K Varma has been the Press Secretary to the President of India, Director General of the Indian Council of Cultural Relations and India's ambassador to Bhutan. He took an early retirement from Indian Foreign Service and is now actively involved in public life. In this book, Varma presents plans and reforms which should be implemented immediately to stop further deterioration of the country. He not only focusses on things going wrong but also people who are being done wrong, the underserved who deserve the basic needs—health, education, clean drinking water, employment and respect as human beings.

Varma is inspired by the knowledge of India's greatest thinker and teacher, Chanakya and his work Arthashastra. He feels if we can understand Chanakya's qualities and the way he handled the challenges 2,000 years ago, we can behave and think like him. We must certainly not forget that India has been a civilisation in which the power of original thought was cultivated. Varma emphasises that we must revive this legacy and initiate a change because the world and people can't wait forever. It is time to act—analyse systems, see what is wrong and fix the errors.

Varma highlights five areas which need immediate attention and gives us an detailed account of what all is happening, right or wrong, in those areas. Those five areas are governance, democracy, corruption, security and the need for an inclusive society.

1. Governance

Varma points out that in the recent times most governments at the Centre and in the states have shown an inability to govern.

-Education, agriculture, infrastructure, railways, power, every sector functions in deep neglect as a host of urgent initiatives are pending.

-30-35 per cent of the food produced under the Agricultural Producers Market Committee Act perishes due to lack of storage and distribution facilities.

-India is home to largest number of people who cannot read and write.

2. Democracy

India is the world's largest democracy but is among the lowest scoring countries on political finance regulation according to the Global Integrity Report, 2011.

-It is a shame to see that 128 of the MPs to the Lok Sabha have criminal records including rape, murder and extortion.

-Most politicians bring in their family members to positions of power and authority.

-We see in front of our eyes the deteriorating state of discussions in the Parliament, there used to be a time when the debates were a mix of wit and substance.

3. Corruption

Today, India is one of the most corrupt countries and the Commonwealth Games 2010 brought the corruption within the country to the world's attention.

-16.6 per cent of the country's GDP is eaten away by corruption.

-Corruption has become a way of life in the country, paying a sum to an official makes achieving the desired goal easier.

-A corrupt minister or civil servant is hardly prosecuted under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
-It is quite sad to see that the country which was once led by Mahatma Gandhi has fallen to such a low level.

4. Security

Terrorism, both externally sponsored and inside our country, has become a big threat to the security of our nation.

-India has 568 battle tanks against China's 2,800, 15 submarines against China's 60, 784 fighter aircraft against their 1,669.
-We have inadequate manpower and equipments, and we are doing nothing about it.

-The country's Parliament has been attacked, planes have been hijacked and major cities terrorised but even then projects to strengthen and tighten the nation's security lie pending and ignored.

5. Creating an Inclusive Society

The current state of the country is appalling—poverty, squalor, illiteracy and malnutrition have become the new social indicators of our country's progress.

-Welfare schemes are doing more good to the people responsible than the beneficiaries.

-There are about 300 million Indians who live in extreme poverty.

A few of the solutions mentioned in the book:

-There should be new laws for corruption-free governance.

-Technology should be used to take all the public services online which will increase accountability and reduce dependence on government officials.

-The government should focus on increasing the growth of sectors that impact the poor, empower the poor with better skills and partner with civil societies, NGOs as alone it has proved to be incapable and ineffective.

-All the courts in the country should make public the number of cases disposed off and which remain pending every six months.

- The voters should be given the right to reject a candidate and parties should make a public list of the candidates who have been convicted of a criminal offence.

-The speakers of both the houses are vested with a number of powers and they should exercise them by warning and expelling members in cases of misconduct. The house is not to be adjourned except in a situation of major crisis.

-And in case of bribery both the giver and taker should be punished.

-The potential of corporate social responsibility (CSR) should be utilised in a better way.

-No bureaucrat should be given an extension after retirement.

-We need a new security mentality, a better command and decision-making structure. The 12,000 vacancies in our armed forces should be filled in immediately.

-Weapons, aircraft, equipments based on obsolete technology should be modernised.

You need to read the book to be able to see the detailed discussions about what is happening in our country and what should happen.

Varma feels the book is not perfect but it presents ideas that need serious thought and debate by everyone. It is up to us to make the choice to either keep complaining or act as agents of change, for it is our country and future that are at stake.

“Change will not come if we wait for some other person, or if we wait for some other time. We are the ones we've been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”

-Barack Obama

This review is a part of the biggest Book Review Program for Indian Bloggers. Participate now to get free books!

The Krishna Key

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 19:00:00 +0000

You feel you've really enjoyed a book or a book has served its purpose when you can imagine and feel every word of it. A good book will actively engage and grip you as if you're one of the characters.

The Krishna Key by Ashwin Sanghi did it for me!

Ashwin Sanghi is best known for his historical and mythological thrillers and I must congratulate him on producing yet another brilliant piece of work. I thoroughly enjoyed his narration which was full of twists and a random mix of the past and the present. Every chapter brings a new surprise making it almost impossible to put it down and leaves you wanting more. Sanghi has done his best to explore the life of Krishna and has valuable bits of historical, mythological and theological information to share.

There is so much that I want to say and write about the book but it's worth experiencing on your own. So, I'll not give away a lot over here.

The story revolves around the four ancient 3-headed seals and a base plate (with inscriptions in Sanskrit) which together form the Krishna Key. These have the ability to unlock the truth and secret of the historical and mysterious Krishna. The murders in the book are a re-enactment of Krishna's death as the person's left foot is stabbed with a scalpel instead of an arrow. Four famous scientists, linguists and reseachers are brutally killed by a young man who is made to believe that he is the Kalki avatar, 10^th avatar of Vishnu. The 10^th avatar of Vishnu is believed to be the destroyer of evil and purifier of earth. The kalki avatar alongwith his creator Mataji unlocks the ancient secret of the precious Syamantaka by executing their hideous schemes. The Syamantaka is something very precious to a Krishna devotee and can transform base metal into gold or vice versa.

Historian Ravi Mohan Saini who suffers the most because of their evil plans puts an end to all this. In the end, he reinforces the long-forgotten message of Mahabharata that the philosopher is more important than the stone, meaning that the stone being searched for by the killer may have magical properties but the real alchemy or transformation happens inside us. The power to transform and change our lives resides within us and no stone or magic can do it for us.

Also, different characters bring in perspectives and details from their vantage points and add layers to the already existing mystery. Gradually, you feel you are getting there but the end of every chapter leaves you more puzzled and curious. Sanghi has used symbols and illustrations to explain the puzzles/scenes better and to make it an interesting read. At the end of the book you feel that he was successful in maintaining the element of suspense throughout.

Each chapter begins with the narration of Krishna's life and the Mahabharata by Krishna himself. The interesting blend of the epic and the story not only keeps the excitement alive but also enlightens us with the ancient knowledge.

Some tidbits that fascinated me:

-The Taj Mahal was a palace before it became a tomb and has seven storeys not just three.

-Somnath temple was created and destroyed eight times.

-The ancient rishis' understanding of energy and science was much greater than ours.

-108 is a sacred number for Hindus. The distance between the earth and the sun is exactly 108 times the sun's diameter. The distance between the earth and the moon is 108 times the moon's diameter.

-Nine is a magical number, you multiply it by anything you always get nine when you add the result.

-The golden city of Dwarka was built by Vishwakarma, the famous architect, on being asked by Krishna.

-And the Sanskrit shlokas add to the fun and your confused state (for readers like me who are not well versed with them!).

Even though I'm not into mythological or historical fiction, I was completely hooked to the book which should say a lot about it. And I am thrilled to know so much more about my country's history and the greatest epic, Mahabharata.

My judgement:

The book is a lot of fun and full of information. It is well-researched and has a good plot that keeps you hooked. I would definitely recommend reading it! And I would like to conclude my review with a quote which I completely agree with.

"A great book should leave you with many experiences, and slightly exhausted at the end. You live several lives while reading."

William Styron

Happy Reading! :)
This review is a part of the Book Reviews Program at Blogadda.com. Participate now to get free books!

A Calendar Too Crowded

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 14:46:00 +0000

A Calendar Too Crowded by Sagarika Chakarborty is an interesting book. It highlights how women deserve to be happy every day and not just on the specific/important days dedicated to them and reserved for the protection of their rights. Every day in a woman's life is precious! Something which is missing in reality.

The author has taken a very unique style to analyse whether women get what they deserve or they are still a part of a fake society, which is only getting better according to the statistics. There are over 300 days which are not devoted to any women's campaign against child abuse, gender inequality, domestic violence, sexual harassment and it is on these days that womanhood is trampled upon, the patience of a woman is tested and all kinds of atrocities are inflicted on them.

A woman sacrifices throughout her life as a daughter, wife, mother and completely changes herself, her attitude and her life for her family and loved ones but just one fault in her turns everything futile.

In this book, every story deals with a challenge which not only the woman in the story but millions of women across the globe face and struggle with.

Every chapter has an interesting name to it, which keeps you wondering what is it that the author actually means and you want to read further to find that out.

Sagarika raises some relevant questions in her book-- are women really treated fairly? If yes then why is a woman who wants to follow her dreams or live a life the way she wants to considered spoilt or bad? Why is a woman expected to sacrifice at every stage? Do we still see the remnants of the old beliefs hidden somewhere in our society which are silently damaging it? Why is it wrong if a mother wants her daughter to have a different life and not a life which has choices without any options?

She highlights in a few chapters how people assume that women get equal and fair treatment when there are millions of girls who are deprived of basic rights and respect. Even though there are so many laws and rights reserved for women still there so many cases of female infanticides, domestic violence, rapes, female trafficking and child abuse.

Sagarika backs up her arguments against the discrimination faced by women with strong facts at the end of some chapters. Some of the stories are really thought provoking. If you and I don't face these issues that does not mean that they don't exist. They do and in huge numbers. After reading this book, I am amazed at the level of difficulties and suffering women have been and are still are subjected to.

Women are tortured for petty reasons--reasons beyond their control, for not getting enough dowry, they lose their importance if they don't have a baby boy, they are declared a misfit if they question the wrong being done to them or try to change things for themselves because those things are unacceptable.

Just by saying that times for women have changed doesn't really do it, there are millions of women who are still striving for their very basic rights as human beings, the liberty to make their own choices, live the way they want to and live for themselves and not others.

After reading the book, I have a few questions which I doubt can find satisfying answers.

Being a human being why cannot I (being a girl) do things that I want to? Why can I not be accepted for what I am instead of all the faults that are easily found in me? Why am I bad if I question things which I don't agree to? Why can I not have a guy as my best friend? Why can I not make my own decisions? Why people around me have no faith in the values and morals they have instilled in me? Just because I am a Girl?

These questions are worth a thought! For things to change and improve, the mindset of people has to and should change.

This book is a must read for everyone, definitely for all girls, not because you can relate to it but because after reading it you know that you deserve to live a life the way you want to and not submit to unacceptable things, there is nothing wrong in living for yourself. It's our right as a human being.

"A woman has to live her life, or live to repent not having lived it."
- DH Lawrence

Happy Reading! :)

This review is a part of the Book Reviews Program at Blogadda.com. Participate now to get free books!

How I wish!

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 17:37:00 +0000

Wish time could freeze when you looked at me,

I was released from all the unhappiness and misery.

Wish things were never to be explained,

The silence we shared made things fall in place.

Wish things could be back to where they were,

even with our fights the happiness remained.

Wish I could control time,

the only thing that separates us now.

I would have never come so far,

if I only had the power to control Time.

Untouchable by Mulk Raj Anand.

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 18:28:00 +0000

Nobody likes being disliked or rejected, specially when things are not under our control or cannot be changed. But there are some people who have to live with it every day. Mulk Raj Anand in his novel 'Untouchable' portrays how the scavengers most commonly referred to as the untouchables are treated by the Hindu society. Anand describes a day in Bakha, a sweeper's life and his desire to be like the Englishmen and the high class Hindus--imitating their lifestyle and living in cleaner houses rather than the filthy and miserable living conditions and seeking similar respect instead of the ill-treatment that he has to face.
Bakha is a young and attractive boy who wishes to live a life of happiness and respect. His only fault is that he is the son of a scavenger and has to carry on with the profession of cleaning and disposing other people's waste.
Throughout the novel Bakha struggles to get some answers--Why are sweepers treated with no respect? Why are the temples, schools, wells not open to the outcastes? Why is their shadow or touch considered polluted? Why are sweepers humiliated all the time for no rhyme or reason?

His day begins with his father's abuses and curses, followed by the insults and humiliation from the Hindus of the upper castes. He is supposed to shout and warn people of his approach. He is addressed as a "Dirty dog! Son of a bitch! The offspring of a pig!"
I doubt if that's how any individual addresses a person, even if s/he belongs to the lowest section of our society. The discrimination exists because it is supported by the caste system and Hindu beliefs.
When he goes to clean the house of a Hindu lady, he is showered with unpleasant comments and the leftover bread and food is thrown at him.
"You eater of the masters! Why did you sit down on my doorstep, if you had to sit down at all? You have defiled my religion! You should have sat there in the gulley! Now I will have to sprinkle holy water all over the house! You spoiler of my salt! oh! how terrible! You sweepers have lifted your heads to the sky, nawadays!"
On the other hand she gives respect and regard to the Sadhu, who is a Brahmin, and requests him to accept her offerings, assuring him that 'the sweeper' didn't pollute her house.
Bakha feels helpless as he fails to understand why the upper caste people always abuse him or look down upon him. He soon concludes that "They always abuse us. Because we are sweepers. Because we touch dung.They hate dung. I hate it too."
Anand's novels on humanism give voice to the oppressed and allows them to express their anger and suffering. All they look for are the basic rights and privileges as human beings, which the caste system deprives them of.

As a reader you feel sorry for all the humiliation and suffering he is subjected to. There would not have been a better way to show how rejection can affect a person and his/her psyche. Anand very well describes Bakha's dilemmas, emotions of anger, helplessness, rejection and disapproval. I felt I was a part of all the protagonist's experiences, as a silent spectator, and felt disgusted but couldn't do anything. The author clearly shows Bakha as a human being who has expectations, emotions, weaknesses and strengths just like anyone else. He feels happy and grateful when Charat Singh, a higher caste Hindu, treats him as a normal person and is kind to him. He wishes a normal life of kindness and equality. He is elated to be a part of Gandhi ji's speech, where the Mahatma stands for the rights and fair treatment of the 'Harijans'. The novel ends with Bakha getting some answers while he has to find the rest of them on his own during the course of life.
The only disappointment was that there was not much to read about the changes that took place in the life of Bakha and other sweepers after Gandhi ji addressed the villagers and demanded fair treatment of the sweepers. Apart from this, I enjoyed reading the book and would insist you to read it too.
Hope you enjoy it!

Vande Mataram.

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 18:29:00 +0000

"Anna tum sangarsh karo, hum tumhare saath hai," is what thousands and thousands of Indians have been crying out since August 16, 2011. Anna Hazare, a veteran activist, is getting unconditional support from the Indians in his fight against corruption.
Over the last week, people from all different classes and sections have come together to participate in rallies and marches. From the youth to senior citizens, everyone is an active member and part of his non-violent movement against corruption, be it at Ramlila Maidan or through tweets, facebook statuses or blogs.

Jan Lokpal Bill has to be passed to check corrupt practices in public offices. It's not that passing such a bill will end all corruption but atleast it is a step forward, an effort to end bribery and unethical practices.
Most people don't know what Lokpal Bill is all about, but what they certainly know is that they want an end to corruption and punish the people who indulge in it.
I have never seen something like this before - people on the roads in such huge numbers and such variety of non-violent ways to protest.People have emerged as one, irrespective of their regional, cultural and religious differences.

On monday I had joined the crowd at Ramlila Maidan and could feel the excitement and enthusiasm among people. It was a great moment. Despite all differences, every Indian was standing with Anna and together for one cause. I was taken aback by Anna's energy, positivity and attitude - his spirit and zeal are a total contrast to his age.
Both Anna and the crowd are getting motivated and inspired by each other!
I am wearing the famous 'Anna topi' and totally supporting Anna, just that I am not able to stay at the venue and be the part of the determined and passionate crowd.
Still, expressing my feelings and views through my blog is a good way to support the cause while I'm at home.
And the best thing I find about this movement is that it has brought all Indians together, who are no longer afraid of expressing what they want or what they believe in.
I want to join the mob and shout my lungs out - 1,2,3,4 band karo yeh Brashtachaar. Vande Mataram...

Just Dance- That's what these kids believe in.

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 07:22:00 +0000

I know it's been long that I haven't written anything except for some poetry because I have been really busy with my first job :) It's a great start and a good place to learn.

Now let's focus on this post which is about some inspiring kids I met a few months ago. During my internship with Hindustan Times, I got the chance to visit a Government school in Noida's Aghapur village. I was actually amazed to see their talent, spirit and enthusiasm.

They are crazy about dance and have amazing stories to share. Even though they have no dance teacher but this has not stopped them from dreaming or dancing like their favourite Bollywood stars.

They sure want a teacher who can teach them different dance forms and the techniques required to make them better dancers. They want someone who can transform their lives, not making them rich or famous but boosting their morale and confidence and be a mentor to them. They want to participate in dance shows like Dance India Dance and Chak Dhoom Dhoom to make their parents, who are mostly labourers, domestic helps, drivers, etc., proud. They want to equip themselves with the right skills to achieve their dreams which will only happen when they have someone to guide them.

Unfortunately, they are still managing without one as no one wants to work for a low wage or in a village. Thanks to the reality shows! At least they are keeping their faith and dreams alive. Instead of giving up, they are trying to learn dance steps from these dance shows, though they can't understand all the technical stuff but they are giving these kids a reason to keep dancing and the way they want to.

I'm sure Hrithik Roshan's new dance show- Just Dance means a lot to them. Firstly, it involves Hrithik Roshan, an inspiration for so many of them. Secondly, it gives them the hope that such platforms are there to give wings to their dreams and aspirations.

I wish I knew some dance form, I would have loved to teach them on Saturdays!

If anyone reading my post is interested in helping them then you are most welcome to do so! You can just leave a message here. I really want them to get a mentor as they are really passionate about dance and just like you and me they have the right and freedom to dream about anything and whatever they want to. So what if they study in a village and a school with few opportunities, but they are a part of our country's future. :)

Hope for the best.

Talk to me

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 11:53:00 +0000

I can look at you for hours,
It feels like you want to speak to me,
Sing to me and share with me stories of your past.

I keep waiting for you to talk,
but always find you soundless and quiet.
Are you making fun of me or playing with my thoughts?

I see you staring and showering smiles at me,
I see them all the time.
But, is it only me or you keep fooling all?

My Inspiration- the old man on the street.

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 09:16:00 +0000

There are so many things which are not in my control,
which give pain and make me think more.
I wish I had a magic wand,
to take away the miseries and all that is bad.

It's hard to imagine how you live,
it's like a challenge every day in a row.
You have strength, patience, faith and hope,
which I believe is unknown to most.

I surrender, being oblivious to the fortitude you show,
as if I am the only one to have things wrong.
I ask all, to think just once about you,
and Faith will immediately rush back to all.

You inspire me by your courage and attitude,
as if you own everything that I may know.
You made me Grateful for all that I have,
and I pray for you and those captured in my mind.

You give me strength and make me move,
because of you I remember that I have strength.
I want to live and live like you,
even if life gets tougher and harder than the one I know.

Trying my hand at poetry :)

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 17:39:00 +0000

Mind is overpowered by fears,

known yet they seem unknown.

Is it loneliness or my own creation?

I feel lost and powerless,

I cry out and long for someone,

but only my shadow prefers to stay close.

My soul is shattered by the sharp pain

but tears take charge,

the only strength I think, I possess,

Escaping from everything appears best

But human mind has doors,

which block my ability to reason

my thoughts and confidence give up with me

I embrace the feeling not knowing,

what is it that I have just gained.

Busy like I have never been.

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 10:16:00 +0000

Friday, 1st April, 2011
Hi everyone,

Sorry again for not being able to write for this long. I have never been so busy before. And I'm not enjoying being so busy :(
But yes, I'm enjoying my internship at Hindustan Times as they have given me the liberty to write stories on the social changes taking place in Noida and its villages. It's fun to explore the villages and write on some exceptional changes that have taken place there.

Also, I have my exams for literature (distance programme) starting from 5th April , so after work I have to cope up with its huge syllabus. By the end of the day, I am so exhausted and I feel I should just focus on one thing.
From my personal experience, I have a suggestion to make- don't go for two courses ,be it distance or regular, at the same time. I am not able to give my best to either of the two. I should have gone for the distance programme sometime later, but I thought my love for books will make it easy for me. But, I have realized that I love reading but that is different from preparing and giving exams. I am totally enjoying reading all the plays and novels. But I am not getting enough time to prepare for the exams and this is making me nervous.
Still, I am one of those people who don't give up till the end so I am trying my best to overcome my fears and nervousness. I hope I get through these exams. Trust me, I have never been in such a situation before when I just want to pass the examination! Its going be an experience. I am happy to accept what comes my way. After all, so many things happen for the first time in everybody's life! :D

Cheers!
P.S. Enjoy the World Cup Final tomorrow! BTW I am wearing BLUE to support India..are you? :)

Just a few more days to go!

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 17:00:00 +0000

Tuesday, 20th January, 2011.

I am extremely sorry to write after so long. As I had mentioned in my last blog that I was going out on a trip to Pondicherry and Mumbai with my friends, teachers and college mates. I had a great time. This trip was also more interesting because I had never been to these places and then I was going out with my friends.
I had planned to dedicate a blog to this wonderful trip but I have been busy with my internship plans and then I had some extremely difficult time where I didn't feel like writing, reading or going out. I just wanted to be all by myself and do things which required no effort. But I will soon be writing about that too.
As of now I am waiting for my internship to start. My friends have already started with their internships and I am still waiting. I am watching a lot of movies these days as it requires least effort from my end and I am enjoying it. Maybe I just want to be away from the career I have chosen..I don't want to write for a few days..lol
Just a few more days for my intership to start so let me be lazy for a few more days :P
I hope things start soon and I will share my experiences here both good and bad. :)
Wish me luck! I need it badly..:P

My fear.

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 03:24:00 +0000

Thursday, 9th December, 2010.

I had planned that I would write this blog on some interesting topic but then I changed my mind. I know sometimes it is so easy to change your mind: P

A few friends of mine do it all the time..haha..sorry..but its true!

I think, today their symptoms were transferred to me.:O

So, in this blog I am going to talk about something serious. Now please don’t stop reading. It’s not that serious but it is something which I feel like sharing.

I am referring to some changes which are about to take place in my life.

My college life is about to get over, which is very sad :(

I am going to miss my teachers who have been fantastic both in terms of teaching and encouraging us and most importantly I am going to miss the fun of being with friends.

I loved being with my friends even if it was the most boring lecture.

I remember my cousins telling me that college is the best phase of everybody’s life, nothing can be better than college days. I can so much relate to what they said as I miss my previous college and friends really badly but I don’t want to go through that feeling again. :(

Soon we all will be interning in different places.

I have no idea about where am I going to intern but all I know right now is that we all will get separated and then we will have to work really hard. We won’t get much time to be together and have fun; even meeting each other would be difficult.

I am sure we will have make friends there too but the freedom, fun, and enjoyment we have here will be impossible after we start working. The field which we all have chosen will make us into complete workaholics! Pheww!

I want to stay in this phase!

I know that is not possible as we have to move on with time. And yes, I also want to see myself in a place where I have always imagined being. I want to learn as much as I can and be independent. I have always wanted to experience that feeling of being independent. Now, I am moving closer to it but still I am going to miss my college life.

Now I think I should stop thinking about future or I will not be able to enjoy the last few days of my college. I want to make the most of these days so that I can always keep such moments with me.

After giving this a thought, I will stop thinking and will make sure that I have a great time in Pondicherry where we are going together as a college on this 16^th.

I hope I get over with my fears and not allow myself to think so much that I miss the present.

I am relieved as by the end of this blog as I have made up my mind of enjoying the present and not thinking about my future. I will move with time.

Please feel free to express yourself. I would love to know if there are many people who think like me or if some people have different way of looking at this.

Thanks :)

Winter Killings

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 17:37:00 +0000

While I was reading today's newspaper, I came across this news about two men who were found dead in Chandni Chowk due to extreme cold weather.
Since a week, the temperature at night has gone down to 10 degree Celsius.This makes it really difficult for the homeless and poor as they do not have warm clothes or a place to live in. They have no option than to sleep on pavements and roadsides.
They already suffer from poor health conditions as a result of which they are an easy target in this cold weather.
The number of homeless people have risen after the Commonwealth Games as many slums were demolished to clean the city for the International event.
The worst thing according to me is the indifferent attitude of the government. The government is completely oblivious to their existence.
The government is relaxed thinking that it is enough on their part to open 64 night shelters for the homeless.
But let me remind them that these night shelters can accomodate only 10,000 but the number of homeless people in the city is estimated to be 160,000.

I want to request the government to please help the homeless as they themselves can't afford anything on their own. Please save them from this cold weather by helping them all find a place in the night shelters which have been brought to existence to protect them. It is the government's duty to help all people, irrespective of their class and make sure they have a decent standard of living.

Green Drive

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 17:32:00 +0000

Tuesday, 7th December, 2010.

If we talk about greenery then Greater Noida tops among all the National Capital Region towns (NCR), including Delhi. Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA) has planned to plant 10 lakh trees by March 2011.
Till now, they have planted 5 lakh trees along the roads and parks in the city. This plan has witnessed active participation by residents of various resident welfare associations and students of different colleges. The GNIDA teams have supervised and assisted people in taking proper care of these plants.
I really find it amazing.
I am happy to see that a city has taken up the initiative to save our environment and is on track with its plan.
We being the responsible citizens are not able to control pollution as we can't do without cars, aerosols, cutting trees, smoking and various other things that cause pollution. I know many people want to but untimately, we are unable to do so.

But, if we are not able reduce pollution atleast we can try and plant more trees so that the damage we do everyday to our environment can be balanced.
Every city should get inspired by this brilliant plan started by the GNIDA and should try and encourage the people of their city to work towards saving our environment. It is really needed, atleast for the sake of our future generation!
This green drive has seen a good start and I hope that Greater Noida sets a benchmark for other cities by successfully planting the 10 lakhs trees.
:)

She has inspired many.

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 18:24:00 +0000

Monday, 6th December,2010.

The 30- year old BPO girl who was abducted from Dhaula Kuan and gangraped on 24th November has become an idol for many women. Her courage and fortitude has actually inspired a number of Indian women. After going through this trauma she has not given up, she wants to punish her culprits in the most severe way possible.
Other women are amazed to see her courage as usually in our society girls are scared to fight for themselves or their voices are suppressed. But in this case nothing can stop the Manipur girl from punishing these insane men.
I want to salute her courage. If girls show this amount of courage then I am pretty sure that men would think twice of committing such disgraceful and shameful acts.
Also, shame on men who actually have no morals, values and humanity left in them.

Please Quit Smoking..

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Sun, 05 Dec 2010 15:33:00 +0000

Sunday, 5th December, 2010.

A US study has revealed that smoking cannabis increases the risk of cancer by suppresing our immune system. It has been found that the active compunds in cannabis suppress immune responses in our body and promote cancer growth.
So people who smoke a lot here is a warning for you.
A 2002 report by the the British Lung Foundation estimated that three to four cannabis cigarettes a day were associated with the same amount of damage to the lungs as 20 or more tobacco cigarettes a day.
Compared to non smokers men who smoke have 23 times higher chances of having lung cancer and women who smoke have 13 times higher chances. Smoking causes 80% and 90% cancer deaths in women and men respectively.
Also, in 2003, 171900 new cases of lung cancer occured and approximately 157,200 people died from lung cancer.
So, by giving up smoking cannabis, tobacco, cigarettes or cigars we can prevent cancer and other harmful effects caused by them.
Please I request all those who smoke to atleast try giving up this habit.
Thanks :)

Keep them warm by helping them :)

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Sat, 04 Dec 2010 09:33:00 +0000

Saturday, 4th December, 2010.

It's winter time. I love this season of the year.
The thing I like the most is that we get to wear woolen clothes of various colours and matching stoles or mufflers in this season.
It is getting colder day by day but I am loving it.
In this blog, I want to request my readers to help the stray animals outside or around their houses. I love animals especially dogs but I have no pet at my place because my mom thinks that I don't have enough time to look after them and spend time with them. Also, she is scared of dogs :P
But still I make sure I look after the stray dogs outside my house in this chilling winter season. I feed them with some biscuits, chapattis and dry food items as empty stomach makes one prone to catching cold in the winters.

Also, last winters I had used jute sacks to make sure they could rest and lie on them in the cold weather. I will be doing the same this year.
It makes me happy after I do something to help these living beings as they can't speak about their problems or they can't tell us they are hungry.
Even little things like this can bring a sense of satisfaction to you and you will feel happy that apart from being busy with work or studies you are able to help someone.
You can also put empty cardborad boxes and line them with old newspapers or stacks of hay to keep them warm.
Please help them friends and also feel free to post how you feel after helping them :)

We can do it..and we will!

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Fri, 03 Dec 2010 18:14:00 +0000

Friday, 3rd December, 2010.

Poverty is a major social evil as it gives rise to further problems of malnutrition, illiteracy, unemployment and unhygeinic living conditions. There have been various schemes to help the below poverty line(BPL) families but still a huge part of the world's population struggle everyday for their survival.
I agree with what Barkha, another blogger, who in her blog post talks about how poverty forces the unprivileged to steal and beg. They have no money to eat, no clothes to wear be it the scorching heat of the summers or the chilling winters, no place to live in. They are deprived of the basic facilities because they cannot afford them.
Their children are the worst sufferers, they cannot go to school, they do not get proper care and attention, they hardly get a meal per day. All these conditions forces them to work as child labourers and they live a life of complete dissatisfaction as they really can't do anything to change their life even if they want to.
Can you imagine how miserable it is to live a such a life?
It is a challenge to live through each day but they stilll have hope that things would change for them. Soon there would be a time when they will have all they are being deprived of, atleast in terms of health, education and better living conditions.
But are we supporting or helping them? Are we there to make sure their hopes and dreams shape into reality?
Maybe. I am not so sure of the answer.
What I have seen is that everybody agrees that poverty should be eradicated but nobody talks about how it should be done, infact serious efforts cannot be seen.
In her blog Barkha has requested each one of us to support and participate in the development goals of the United Nations, where poverty eradication is one of the major development goal.
We have to support United Nations in order to help these people as they are an important part of our society.
Please I request my readers to pass on my message and take this issue seriously.
Also, in this blog I will not tell you what you should do or should not do but I want you to decide yourself how you want to support and participate in this cause. Even if it is something small, it will be a huge help to the people in need.

And remember we have to help so that they keep on dreaming and hoping for better and good things.
Good luck!

Dowry should exist no more!!

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 16:31:00 +0000

Monday, 29th November, 2010

I strongly agree with Barkha Dhar's blog post which raises a lot of questions in our modern Indian society.We as a society have achieved a lot and are still progressing but there are many Indian girls who are tortured and ill-treated for dowry reasons.
In our society, daughters are treated as 'parayadhan' and their status in the marital homes depend on the amount of dowry they bring into the new family.
A lot has changed in our society, education of girls is one of those changes but we can hardly see any change in the mentalities of people when it comes to treating women. Nobody is bothered about how much a girl is educated, what family background she comes from or what values have been instilled in her but people are only interested in how much money she can bring along with her.

It is a disgrace to our modern society.
Why have people given up humanity? How can they treat another human being like this?
My friend Barkha has rightly mentioned in her blog that people involved in such shameful acts should not forget that the way they treat someone else's daughter their own daughter could be experience the same ill- treatment.
Why nobody thinks about the girl who goes through all this pain and suffering? Is this the kind of life she expects after being happily married?
No. Absolutely not.

I too request my readers to please pass on this message to discourage and eliminate the evil of 'dowry' from our society so that all girls get the respect and life they deserve as human beings.

This is simply cute!

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 18:27:00 +0000

Sunday, 28th November, 2010.

I came across this blog post where the blogger talks about my favourite subject, headbands.I always keep looking in for nice and simple headbands but I never realized that I could actually make them using stuff at my house. Also, I don't have to buy anything or spend money on my new and beautiful headband.
Cool..!
I just loved the new 'lauren headband' it is so cute, elegant and different. I like the way she has given the details, steps and measurements for making one myself. The best thing about it is that it is a product of her imagination and creativity.
Honestly, I don't think I can come up with such an idea.
Now, all I need is to make one and wear them to make my hair look neat and attractive.
Thanks for the lovely tutorial friend :)

The Police walas!!

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 16:51:00 +0000

Sunday, November 28, 2010.

I just went out with mom and dad to enjoy some chicken rolls and momos at a roadside stall nearby my place.It is always fun to go out with family even for a short while.
While we were enjoying our food we suddenly saw two tall policemen approaching the stalls and they actually threw all the eatables and food on the ground.
I was amazed as I had witnessed this for the first time. I had always heard about the 'police walas' being nasty but I saw them behave so irrationally for the first time.
They did this because the stalls were not supposed to be at the roadside.I think, instead of being so harsh they could have just told the stall vendors to move the stalls.
I felt really bad and could see how miserable the stall owners looked. Firstly, the government does nothing to help them find a proper legal place. Secondly, when they show the courage to work instead of resorting to begging or other easy ways they are not encouraged by anyone.
I request the policemen and other people to please treat them as humans and give the respect they deserve as human beings, so what if they belong to the poor section of the society.

Air pollution on an increase.

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 15:09:00 +0000

Sunday, 28 November, 2010.

Many hospitals in the city have reported a hike in respiratory diseases like asthma and bronchitis.This is due to the increase in the pollution levels. Smoke from factories, soil dust and vehicular emissions have led to a sharp increase in air pollution.
It was reported that the Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM)and the Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter(RSPM) have been found to be higher than the standard which causes respiratory ailments. These particulates are very small and they enter deep into the respiratory tract of human beings.
I think,we can help reduce such problems by controlling pollution at an individual level. We can walk for short distances instead of taking our cars or vehicles and should turn off the car engines while waiting at the red lights.We can go in for car pooling and should make sure we promote afforestation.
If you guys have any other ways to reduce air pollution please feel free to post and pass on this message.
I am sure with our honest efforts we will bring a good change for our planet :)

Men just can't help it..lol!

noreply@blogger.com (Radhika Haswani) — Sat, 27 Nov 2010 22:57:00 +0000

Saturday, 27th November, 2010.

You must be wondering why do I write so much about metros.
Well, I travel so much in the metro that I can't stop thinking about it :P
Here's the most important thing I want to share.
On my way in the metro I see a lot of men entering the coach reserved for ladies very casually. The ladies always have to tell them that the coach is only for women.
I too have had the privilege to pass on this information :P
But, the men in Delhi just can't understand. We, still see them entering the women's coach.
Two days back I had a terrible experience while on my way to Rajiv Chowk. I was amazed to see that men were entering the women's coach in order to get down at the next stop conveniently and they were seen pushing and squabbling in the best possible way.
In doing so, they had made it difficult for the women to get down as the whole last section of the coach was occupied by these insensible men!
Even on repeated reminders from all the ladies they did not budge from their positions.
I shouldn't be saying this but I really want to, I was really happy when I saw that yesterday men were punished for travelling in the women's coach :P

There were these women constables travelling without their regular uniform, who red-handedly caught men in the ladies coach and thrashed them for not taking the metro rules seriously!
They were also asked to do sit-ups which must have reminded them of their school punishments. Lol:)
I just hope this drive men will learn a lesson that metro police no longer has the 'chalta hai' attitude towards the metro rules ;)