I believe the biggest threat to hinduism (and India) is our chalta hain attitude. Please refer to the latest Jodhpur accident. We have thousands of people in a narrow lane, yet there are no emergency exits any whereAnd go to of our temples, and the scene is the same. I went to Balaji, and trust me, it is another disaster waiting to happen. You have thousands people again without any emergency exit. The priests, or the guards literally push people after they had the darshan. Same trouble exists in Vaishav Devi, Kashi Vishwanath, any other temple. Its a miracle that accidents are not happening.
Even after accident, people are being carried out by hand. No stretchers, nothing. Have we ever thought how many people die after accidents as a result of careless, make it callous, attitude. But we do not complaint because of our chalta hain. We often commend that US had no terrorists activities after 9/11. But did we ever notice that 9/11 had very less people dying via stampede. We don't need terrorists to kill our people. This attitude is doing enough on that front.
Another issue - people often blame Islam, or missionaries over declining hindu ratios in states. But I have another question. But will our shankracharya EVER allow a lower caste to feed him. Have we ever seen any of traditional religious teachers doing anything on untouchability. If you keep on ignoring a huge class of people for generations, why will they not convert. Was this not the reason why we asked British to leave. Why should these peole not leave?
Let us start cleaning ourselves from inside first. If a person is sick then the first priority is to have a strong immune system. Let us work on our immune system first. Let us work on untouchabilty in our lives, our families, our temple, our marriages first. Let us attack on our chaltaa hain attitude first. Let us ensure that our houses have fire enxtenguishers, our offices have them. Let us ensure our cops have bullet proof vests. Once this all is done, we would have won defeated 90% of threats.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Taking the GMAT
With regards to preparation, I would say the first step is taking an appointment. Without it, you can't study. Or at least people like me can't. For over 3 years I had been planning for GMAT preparation, purchased books, been there done that, but nothing worked. Then one day took appointment. Kept three months for preparation and that is when it all started.
I started with basic books. Thompson's GMAT preparation in 30 days and Kaplan's. Honestly speaking Thompson's is not respected highly, but it is a good book. Especially for math. It has formulas and everything in a neat format. And it ensures that you study at least something daily. Kaplan, as we all know, is the bible kind of for GMAT. But I differ and would come to this later. I also purchased one year subscription for 800GMAT score. It costs something around 25$ and is worth it. So my strategy at this stage was straight, I would read the day’s material from Thompson's and practice in 800GMATscore (http://www.800score.com).
Also I gave Kaplan's test in between, and was pretty disappointed with scores. I guess practicing with Kaplan test's here is a big advantage. You get low scores, and realize you have to work hard.
After completing these I moved on to the official guide. Again it has no parallel in terms of practice material. But I feel it lacks in terms of those TOUGH questions. I feel most of the questions here are mid range kind of. But it is important to be thorough with all of the questions here. And all the math formulae.
Having completed these and with 45 days approx remaining, I purchased GMAT official paper tests. I purchased two of those. Each has 3 tests. I gave them with all honesty, using timers and all. This helped in two ways, building stamina and pinpointing weak areas. And the biggest weak area was SENTENCE CORRECTION. I am writing this in a hurry, and I guess you guys can interpret, my natural writing...
At this point I must thanks Hagrid. He advised me for Manhattan book. And it was definitely worth it. The book is nothing short of brilliant. And they give you six practice tests free, which are quite good ones in terms of toughness, so it is worth it.
I also purchased the Kaplan 800 series and some mini tests from Manhattan guys, and kept on using them in between.
Before concluding the learning part there is one area I would like to stress. Essays. They are important for two reasons. They can be strange, if you don't practice. And more importantly they are the first questions. So if they are not correct, you go into the whole test with a negative mood. And that hurts.
Now coming on to the actual test experience.
My test was scheduled for 10; I reached at 9:15, completed formalities and had started the test at 9:30. So you can start early. Better than feeding the butterflies in stomach...The essay questions were cool. I had 5 minutes to spare after the second one. And used that for a BIG advantage in math. I drew the number line of math on the grid and plotted some fractions, positive numbers, negative, roots etc. on the copy. This really helped me with two DS questions in math..:-)
There was one strange thing that I saw in Math. After two or three super tough questions, one absolute easy was thrown. Now hearing to all this CAT stuff, I thought I had blundered on last questions. But the score says otherwise. So God knows what they were. But I think one should not fret too much about toughness of questions and all that mumbo jumbo. Basically each answer has to right, as per your interpretation. I did guess in some questions, because they were out of my reach...
Now coming to things that I did WRONG in test. First, I was over cautious with timings. I had around 19 minutes remaining when I was at quest 37 in quant. Then I did even worst in analytical. 22 minutes in hand. This time should have been utilized in answering questions on which I guessed. I mean GMAT does not score marks on speed like Manteca does. So be cautious.
Some general tips before concluding. Wear comfortable cloths. Try giving at least one test at home with earplugs. It is strange having them in ear. And that was some disturbance when I was at Math and guy next door was typing his essay. Also remember that 10 minutes break is actually 8 minutes. Because the moment you leave computer, you call instructor to lock the computer. Then you leave room, have finger printing. Then you return to room, again finger printing, again unlocking. So just keep that in mind while practicing.
Last advice (sorry if I am preaching), give loads of practice tests. I gave around 25(6 from GMAT paper tests, 6 Manhattan, 6 800 score, 4 Kaplan, two official and one somewhere). I guess this helped most. Because it helps you get in the mood to think on all shortcuts and all. But don't give unrecognized tests. Because you have no way to realize whether your score is good or not.
I started with basic books. Thompson's GMAT preparation in 30 days and Kaplan's. Honestly speaking Thompson's is not respected highly, but it is a good book. Especially for math. It has formulas and everything in a neat format. And it ensures that you study at least something daily. Kaplan, as we all know, is the bible kind of for GMAT. But I differ and would come to this later. I also purchased one year subscription for 800GMAT score. It costs something around 25$ and is worth it. So my strategy at this stage was straight, I would read the day’s material from Thompson's and practice in 800GMATscore (http://www.800score.com).
Also I gave Kaplan's test in between, and was pretty disappointed with scores. I guess practicing with Kaplan test's here is a big advantage. You get low scores, and realize you have to work hard.
After completing these I moved on to the official guide. Again it has no parallel in terms of practice material. But I feel it lacks in terms of those TOUGH questions. I feel most of the questions here are mid range kind of. But it is important to be thorough with all of the questions here. And all the math formulae.
Having completed these and with 45 days approx remaining, I purchased GMAT official paper tests. I purchased two of those. Each has 3 tests. I gave them with all honesty, using timers and all. This helped in two ways, building stamina and pinpointing weak areas. And the biggest weak area was SENTENCE CORRECTION. I am writing this in a hurry, and I guess you guys can interpret, my natural writing...
At this point I must thanks Hagrid. He advised me for Manhattan book. And it was definitely worth it. The book is nothing short of brilliant. And they give you six practice tests free, which are quite good ones in terms of toughness, so it is worth it.
I also purchased the Kaplan 800 series and some mini tests from Manhattan guys, and kept on using them in between.
Before concluding the learning part there is one area I would like to stress. Essays. They are important for two reasons. They can be strange, if you don't practice. And more importantly they are the first questions. So if they are not correct, you go into the whole test with a negative mood. And that hurts.
Now coming on to the actual test experience.
My test was scheduled for 10; I reached at 9:15, completed formalities and had started the test at 9:30. So you can start early. Better than feeding the butterflies in stomach...The essay questions were cool. I had 5 minutes to spare after the second one. And used that for a BIG advantage in math. I drew the number line of math on the grid and plotted some fractions, positive numbers, negative, roots etc. on the copy. This really helped me with two DS questions in math..:-)
There was one strange thing that I saw in Math. After two or three super tough questions, one absolute easy was thrown. Now hearing to all this CAT stuff, I thought I had blundered on last questions. But the score says otherwise. So God knows what they were. But I think one should not fret too much about toughness of questions and all that mumbo jumbo. Basically each answer has to right, as per your interpretation. I did guess in some questions, because they were out of my reach...
Now coming to things that I did WRONG in test. First, I was over cautious with timings. I had around 19 minutes remaining when I was at quest 37 in quant. Then I did even worst in analytical. 22 minutes in hand. This time should have been utilized in answering questions on which I guessed. I mean GMAT does not score marks on speed like Manteca does. So be cautious.
Some general tips before concluding. Wear comfortable cloths. Try giving at least one test at home with earplugs. It is strange having them in ear. And that was some disturbance when I was at Math and guy next door was typing his essay. Also remember that 10 minutes break is actually 8 minutes. Because the moment you leave computer, you call instructor to lock the computer. Then you leave room, have finger printing. Then you return to room, again finger printing, again unlocking. So just keep that in mind while practicing.
Last advice (sorry if I am preaching), give loads of practice tests. I gave around 25(6 from GMAT paper tests, 6 Manhattan, 6 800 score, 4 Kaplan, two official and one somewhere). I guess this helped most. Because it helps you get in the mood to think on all shortcuts and all. But don't give unrecognized tests. Because you have no way to realize whether your score is good or not.
Monday, March 17, 2008
This is shameful
Posting an HT article
http://hindustantimes.com/htsite/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?id=9f666c0f-04eb-441c-ba37-23ac8a6f4e1d
A freshly minted statue of Nathuram Godse that was to be formally unveiled on Wednesday has kicked up a row in a coastal Andhra Pradesh town.
Activists of Gandhi Mandali Abhibrudhi Committee protesting against the glorification of the Mahatma’s killer damaged the statue with axes and shovels and brought it down. They threatened to intensify the agitation if the statue was allowed to be installed.
“Tadepalligudem has played a great role during the freedom movement and a number of local youth went to jail inspired by Gandhiji`s call. Mahatma Gandhi spent a night in the town too. Installing the statue of Gandhiji`s killer in this town is an affront to the memory of hundreds of freedom fighters as well as their descendants,” said Appa Rao, adding that it is intended to cause ill will among people.But the man behind the statue, appropriately named Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, is unapologetic. He insists he has the right to go ahead with installing the statue. “I have made the statue with my own money and I am installing it in my own land, not in any public place. What objections do they have,” he asked.
Mukherjee, a lawyer, wanted to unveil the statue on Wednesday to commemorate Godse’s death anniversary. On Mukherjee’s complaint, police has booked a case and started investigations.
The act of Mr. Mukharjee.. Sad.. The act of so called Gandhians.. SHAMEFUL...
Had these people not demloished the statue this Mr. Mukharjee would have gone unnoticed. Now they have made him a news item. I am sure this is something Gandhi would have never approved off..
Let us imagine that the protestors would have followed Gandhiji here. And an ailing freedom fighter from the region, or any one from the region would have taken a fast unto death. The scene would have different. Mr. Mukharjee would have been object of shame for killing an old man . I am sure he would have been forced to remove the statue. Mission acomplished. Gandhi was a genius. When will some Gandhi followers understand that he was one of the best and williest politicians that we had.
Can someone please get me the address of Mr. Mukharjee. I am planning to send over a DD to him as compensation of his losses.
Though I did not distroyed his property, I feel ashamed to be a part of group that did. Request to others. If you think what was done to Mr. Mukharjee was wrong, let's make it right. What he did is now inconsequential. What has been done and what should be done is paramout.If we can pool in our sources and send a join compensation, that will save him the hassles of depositing money again and again. Else I plan to send him within a week or so.
http://hindustantimes.com/htsite/StoryPage/StoryPage.aspx?id=9f666c0f-04eb-441c-ba37-23ac8a6f4e1d
A freshly minted statue of Nathuram Godse that was to be formally unveiled on Wednesday has kicked up a row in a coastal Andhra Pradesh town.
Activists of Gandhi Mandali Abhibrudhi Committee protesting against the glorification of the Mahatma’s killer damaged the statue with axes and shovels and brought it down. They threatened to intensify the agitation if the statue was allowed to be installed.
“Tadepalligudem has played a great role during the freedom movement and a number of local youth went to jail inspired by Gandhiji`s call. Mahatma Gandhi spent a night in the town too. Installing the statue of Gandhiji`s killer in this town is an affront to the memory of hundreds of freedom fighters as well as their descendants,” said Appa Rao, adding that it is intended to cause ill will among people.But the man behind the statue, appropriately named Shyama Prasad Mukherjee, is unapologetic. He insists he has the right to go ahead with installing the statue. “I have made the statue with my own money and I am installing it in my own land, not in any public place. What objections do they have,” he asked.
Mukherjee, a lawyer, wanted to unveil the statue on Wednesday to commemorate Godse’s death anniversary. On Mukherjee’s complaint, police has booked a case and started investigations.
The act of Mr. Mukharjee.. Sad.. The act of so called Gandhians.. SHAMEFUL...
Had these people not demloished the statue this Mr. Mukharjee would have gone unnoticed. Now they have made him a news item. I am sure this is something Gandhi would have never approved off..
Let us imagine that the protestors would have followed Gandhiji here. And an ailing freedom fighter from the region, or any one from the region would have taken a fast unto death. The scene would have different. Mr. Mukharjee would have been object of shame for killing an old man . I am sure he would have been forced to remove the statue. Mission acomplished. Gandhi was a genius. When will some Gandhi followers understand that he was one of the best and williest politicians that we had.
Can someone please get me the address of Mr. Mukharjee. I am planning to send over a DD to him as compensation of his losses.
Though I did not distroyed his property, I feel ashamed to be a part of group that did. Request to others. If you think what was done to Mr. Mukharjee was wrong, let's make it right. What he did is now inconsequential. What has been done and what should be done is paramout.If we can pool in our sources and send a join compensation, that will save him the hassles of depositing money again and again. Else I plan to send him within a week or so.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Lessons from Chennai
Just an incident that I faced while in Chennai. After couple of days in Chennai I realized that auto drivers would ask for more money if I told them the amount and place in English. Slowly I started learning Tamil that allowed me to bargain with them and that did the trick.
The point I am trying to make is that I learnt Tamil because market forced me to do so. However, if the government had said that I have to pass exam X in Tamil before landing in Tamil Nadu or within 3 months I would have protested. Or worst, passed the exam using unscrupulous means.
And that is what governments need to realize. They can play the role of catalyst. They can offer incentives, benefits etc. to people if they adopt a certain line. But forcing people to adopt that approach often has the negative effect. And it wastes energy of governments in ensuring that people are following. And it people do not follow, it gives them the message that its OK not to follow. Everyone looses.
Governments need to remember that catalyst is defined as one that hastens (or slows) a reaction, without being consumed in the reaction. Being a catalyst preserved government and its energy for future uses. And it ensures that the reaction if doomed is not executed.
In terms of history, I think man created markets first, and governments later. There is info on first profession, but none of first government. And that is something that governments need to realize. They are powerful. But market is more powerful. For ages we lived under the socialistic era. Nothing was allowed to be imported without permission. Yet everything you wanted was available. Because market wanted it.
The problem with the government power is perhaps that it does thing artificially at times. For example take the development of Amethi. It prospers when Nehru’s are in power and then dithers. Because the progress is unnatural. This is not to say that governments should never intervene.
If you have fever you do take medicines. That's the power of government. If any area is actually lagging the governments should intervene. And yet that's its limitations too. You can't pop up pills daily. So governments after starting a job must be aware of there exit points. You can't live till eternity, even if you take medicines daily.
The point I am trying to make is that I learnt Tamil because market forced me to do so. However, if the government had said that I have to pass exam X in Tamil before landing in Tamil Nadu or within 3 months I would have protested. Or worst, passed the exam using unscrupulous means.
And that is what governments need to realize. They can play the role of catalyst. They can offer incentives, benefits etc. to people if they adopt a certain line. But forcing people to adopt that approach often has the negative effect. And it wastes energy of governments in ensuring that people are following. And it people do not follow, it gives them the message that its OK not to follow. Everyone looses.
Governments need to remember that catalyst is defined as one that hastens (or slows) a reaction, without being consumed in the reaction. Being a catalyst preserved government and its energy for future uses. And it ensures that the reaction if doomed is not executed.
In terms of history, I think man created markets first, and governments later. There is info on first profession, but none of first government. And that is something that governments need to realize. They are powerful. But market is more powerful. For ages we lived under the socialistic era. Nothing was allowed to be imported without permission. Yet everything you wanted was available. Because market wanted it.
The problem with the government power is perhaps that it does thing artificially at times. For example take the development of Amethi. It prospers when Nehru’s are in power and then dithers. Because the progress is unnatural. This is not to say that governments should never intervene.
If you have fever you do take medicines. That's the power of government. If any area is actually lagging the governments should intervene. And yet that's its limitations too. You can't pop up pills daily. So governments after starting a job must be aware of there exit points. You can't live till eternity, even if you take medicines daily.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Valentine's day
I am not very much in favor of Valentine's Day. It’s a marketing stunt in all probabilities. Never heard of it till high school. And I am not a passout of 1800s!
The article by Tarun Vijay in TOI today is good one in this regard. We need to promote and create our festivals. That is needed even to market India abroad. The whole world knows that Chinese celebrated their New Year couple of days back. What about our Makar Sankranti ? Why can't Basant Panchami be national day for love and brotherhood? Let us remember our festivals before jumping in for new ones. Let us keep our windows open for fresh airs, but not be blown away by the wind.
But I am more against the hooliganism that is displayed by those opposing it. It’s even worst. If I had to choose between mindless consumerism and mindless hooliganism, I think I will opt for former.
This hoolignism makes me ask a question ?Why does this country need courts? Justice for these people is a Maggie two-minute noodle. Just add water, boil and eat. So they practice catch the culprit, make a tamasha and beat!!! But remember even if you like this recipe in short term, please remember that Maggie is not good for health. Neither is hooliganism. No matter you call is Hinduism or you call it fatwa. Incidentally this irresponsibilty is perhaps the best (or worst) secular nature we have. Be it Thakrey, or be it the Shahi Imam, every one has the audacity to take country to ransom on name of public.
Who are these people to decide if someone is a culprit? Let us say they are competent enough and beat someone whom you think is culprit. What happens when they realize tomorrow that he was innocent? What if he was framed? Will they then beat up those of your party who beat him? And then if they realize that he was actually victim, whom will they beat then.
I am not saying that judicial system is 100% accurate. The judicial system might be bad, but this judicialism is worst. It is partial and it is innacurate. And in most cases inhuman. Who is responsible for the mother who was forced to deliver baby in a train toilet. Hooliganism practiced by Thakrey. Who is incidentally on a bail and is roaming free with Abu Hashmi.If someone attacks my house I will pull out the revolver first and call police later.
The constitution gives every one freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship. As long as those who celebrate Valentine’s day do not disturb anyone else, they have full right to practice what they believe in. And as long as the protestors do not harm them, they have right to do so. And the moment one of them crosses there limit, he or she or they should be punished as per the law of the land. Nothing more. But nothing less either.
The article by Tarun Vijay in TOI today is good one in this regard. We need to promote and create our festivals. That is needed even to market India abroad. The whole world knows that Chinese celebrated their New Year couple of days back. What about our Makar Sankranti ? Why can't Basant Panchami be national day for love and brotherhood? Let us remember our festivals before jumping in for new ones. Let us keep our windows open for fresh airs, but not be blown away by the wind.
But I am more against the hooliganism that is displayed by those opposing it. It’s even worst. If I had to choose between mindless consumerism and mindless hooliganism, I think I will opt for former.
This hoolignism makes me ask a question ?Why does this country need courts? Justice for these people is a Maggie two-minute noodle. Just add water, boil and eat. So they practice catch the culprit, make a tamasha and beat!!! But remember even if you like this recipe in short term, please remember that Maggie is not good for health. Neither is hooliganism. No matter you call is Hinduism or you call it fatwa. Incidentally this irresponsibilty is perhaps the best (or worst) secular nature we have. Be it Thakrey, or be it the Shahi Imam, every one has the audacity to take country to ransom on name of public.
Who are these people to decide if someone is a culprit? Let us say they are competent enough and beat someone whom you think is culprit. What happens when they realize tomorrow that he was innocent? What if he was framed? Will they then beat up those of your party who beat him? And then if they realize that he was actually victim, whom will they beat then.
I am not saying that judicial system is 100% accurate. The judicial system might be bad, but this judicialism is worst. It is partial and it is innacurate. And in most cases inhuman. Who is responsible for the mother who was forced to deliver baby in a train toilet. Hooliganism practiced by Thakrey. Who is incidentally on a bail and is roaming free with Abu Hashmi.If someone attacks my house I will pull out the revolver first and call police later.
The constitution gives every one freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship. As long as those who celebrate Valentine’s day do not disturb anyone else, they have full right to practice what they believe in. And as long as the protestors do not harm them, they have right to do so. And the moment one of them crosses there limit, he or she or they should be punished as per the law of the land. Nothing more. But nothing less either.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Give them a taste for their medicine.
Some suggestions for the government to try for Shiv Sena cure
1. Today Raj Thakrey has said that no outsider will be allowed to work in Mumbai airport. Extend the approach. Ban all airlines from landing in Mumbai, if he goes ahead with this nonsense.
2. Ban Udhhav from fighting elections for next 10 years. Also ban any candidate he campains for. Declare his MMS and Shiv Sena both as outlawed terror outfits.
3. This one is for the public. Have a complete boycott of these leaders. They should not be invited to public functions, parties, markets, everywhere. Infact, even the thela waalas should stop selling them vegetables.
4. If they continue to attack outsiders, government should declare a subsidy of 50% on all movies made outside Maharashtra. If needed even stop the Mumbai port.
These steps might sound outlandish. But I believe that these pals and there chums should be taught a lesson with the maximum severity. And the people who support them. It is high time that these people do not win even ONE seat in elections. Else the public is as guilty as them.
And one last thing. I have never heard anytime any Muslim organisation making these demands. yet, it is Muslims who have to prove there partiotism. Why doesn't the half mind half nikkar brigade prove its partiotism by stopping all relations with half mind Thakreys.
1. Today Raj Thakrey has said that no outsider will be allowed to work in Mumbai airport. Extend the approach. Ban all airlines from landing in Mumbai, if he goes ahead with this nonsense.
2. Ban Udhhav from fighting elections for next 10 years. Also ban any candidate he campains for. Declare his MMS and Shiv Sena both as outlawed terror outfits.
3. This one is for the public. Have a complete boycott of these leaders. They should not be invited to public functions, parties, markets, everywhere. Infact, even the thela waalas should stop selling them vegetables.
4. If they continue to attack outsiders, government should declare a subsidy of 50% on all movies made outside Maharashtra. If needed even stop the Mumbai port.
These steps might sound outlandish. But I believe that these pals and there chums should be taught a lesson with the maximum severity. And the people who support them. It is high time that these people do not win even ONE seat in elections. Else the public is as guilty as them.
And one last thing. I have never heard anytime any Muslim organisation making these demands. yet, it is Muslims who have to prove there partiotism. Why doesn't the half mind half nikkar brigade prove its partiotism by stopping all relations with half mind Thakreys.
Friday, February 8, 2008
I hate them...
There's a sense of irony in the lives of those who are consumed with hatred towards any one else. You waste you energy, your energy, your life, based on the terms of the other person.
Its equally sad when people hate on basis of religion/nation etc. All the Muslim bashers, if you were born Muslim you would have been hating Hindus. But you are born hindu, so you hate Muslims. Think of it. You did not control your birth. And an event over which you had no control is affecting your thoughts on which you have control.
It probably is still OK if you hate a person based on what he did to you. But hating a community based on what was done in past. Its like destroying your life. And that applies to every one, irrespective of caste/creed/religion. Perhaps its OK if you want to increase the number of people under your religion. As is said in RSS there are two line and you want to make one line longer. Don't shorten the other line, increase your line. So I wonder where does hatred fit in all this.
One last tip. Please remember that we often become what we hate. There are people who HATE Muslims, because some terrorists (please do not fight with me over percentages here)happen to be terrorists. And then they start suppressing Muslims or other religions in name of stopping terrorism. Are you not doing a terrorist activity yourself. This is what Raj Thakre and party have landed in now. This is what Shiv Sena did some time back. Two wrongs do not make a right. They are still two wrongs..
Its equally sad when people hate on basis of religion/nation etc. All the Muslim bashers, if you were born Muslim you would have been hating Hindus. But you are born hindu, so you hate Muslims. Think of it. You did not control your birth. And an event over which you had no control is affecting your thoughts on which you have control.
It probably is still OK if you hate a person based on what he did to you. But hating a community based on what was done in past. Its like destroying your life. And that applies to every one, irrespective of caste/creed/religion. Perhaps its OK if you want to increase the number of people under your religion. As is said in RSS there are two line and you want to make one line longer. Don't shorten the other line, increase your line. So I wonder where does hatred fit in all this.
One last tip. Please remember that we often become what we hate. There are people who HATE Muslims, because some terrorists (please do not fight with me over percentages here)happen to be terrorists. And then they start suppressing Muslims or other religions in name of stopping terrorism. Are you not doing a terrorist activity yourself. This is what Raj Thakre and party have landed in now. This is what Shiv Sena did some time back. Two wrongs do not make a right. They are still two wrongs..
Thursday, February 7, 2008
My grandfather's jail diaries
Pasting couple of pages right now... Will post more detailed resolution images once I am in India
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
National anthem
I have heard enough non sense on the topic. My views on the topic...
I don't care who this songs praises. or used to praise in the first place..A mere stone once placed in the temple assumes importance. It does not matter where did the stone belonged in the first place. For me this song is placed in the temple of motherland now, and I don't care how much the 'intellectuals' discuss over where it belonged previously...
For me singing either Vande Mataram or Jan Gana Mana evokes the same level of patriotism that some intellectuals call madness.All that I know is that millions have laid there lives protecting it. And millions can lay there lives for it. All that I know is that I am ready to die or to kill to protect this song..And it is this spirit that gives this mere song its importance.
Also if we change the anthem once what next ?How many things should we change more... Tomorrow some people will call for Vande Mataram to be changed because its anti muslim and what not. Then some one will call for national anthem in regional languages. Then in local dialects. Cycles as these never stop.And the point is that they achieve no purpose. A patriot will remain a patriot no matter what is the national anthem. Ditto for a non patriot.. But the nation will loose precious time and energy that it could have used else where
I don't care who this songs praises. or used to praise in the first place..A mere stone once placed in the temple assumes importance. It does not matter where did the stone belonged in the first place. For me this song is placed in the temple of motherland now, and I don't care how much the 'intellectuals' discuss over where it belonged previously...
For me singing either Vande Mataram or Jan Gana Mana evokes the same level of patriotism that some intellectuals call madness.All that I know is that millions have laid there lives protecting it. And millions can lay there lives for it. All that I know is that I am ready to die or to kill to protect this song..And it is this spirit that gives this mere song its importance.
Also if we change the anthem once what next ?How many things should we change more... Tomorrow some people will call for Vande Mataram to be changed because its anti muslim and what not. Then some one will call for national anthem in regional languages. Then in local dialects. Cycles as these never stop.And the point is that they achieve no purpose. A patriot will remain a patriot no matter what is the national anthem. Ditto for a non patriot.. But the nation will loose precious time and energy that it could have used else where
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Teach them a lesson please
Something irregular is perhaps taking a regular shape in Indian politics now. It was something that was once confined to the outer circles of politics. It was common in Tamil Nadu politics. And was dying a natural death even there. But it is taking a centre seat in main stream national politics now.
I am talking about regionalism taking intolerant turn in politics. Perhaps the latest straw to this was Shiv Sena and its folks declaring Amitabh Bahchan as UP centric. Another incident that disturbs is Taslima episode. And these are nothing but different sides of the same coin. There are innumerous of such incidents. There is a complete secularism in these incidents ! For every action from one side there is one even better from the other side.
Think of it. If Taslima episode is taliabanisation of Muslim politics ? Then how come is Amitabh episode different ? These are both wrong instances and deserve equal punishment. Employ police, public and if required army to bring the Shiv Sena to its knees. Better still declare a 50% subsidy for any movie outside Maharashtra. Teach them a lesson. And do not leave Taslima detractors too. Employ the same weapon as you can think of against Shiv Sena. Confiscate property of any one who fights against Taslima. And BAN any one of such people from fighting elections.
Perhaps these things are required to teach a lesson. There is a growing tendency in some sections to speak just for the heck of it. And they are gaining out of it. Free publicity. Free votes. Everything free.
I am not too sure if these deserve to be nipped in bud or allowed to die there natural death. Comments please ?
I am talking about regionalism taking intolerant turn in politics. Perhaps the latest straw to this was Shiv Sena and its folks declaring Amitabh Bahchan as UP centric. Another incident that disturbs is Taslima episode. And these are nothing but different sides of the same coin. There are innumerous of such incidents. There is a complete secularism in these incidents ! For every action from one side there is one even better from the other side.
Think of it. If Taslima episode is taliabanisation of Muslim politics ? Then how come is Amitabh episode different ? These are both wrong instances and deserve equal punishment. Employ police, public and if required army to bring the Shiv Sena to its knees. Better still declare a 50% subsidy for any movie outside Maharashtra. Teach them a lesson. And do not leave Taslima detractors too. Employ the same weapon as you can think of against Shiv Sena. Confiscate property of any one who fights against Taslima. And BAN any one of such people from fighting elections.
Perhaps these things are required to teach a lesson. There is a growing tendency in some sections to speak just for the heck of it. And they are gaining out of it. Free publicity. Free votes. Everything free.
I am not too sure if these deserve to be nipped in bud or allowed to die there natural death. Comments please ?
Friday, February 1, 2008
Genius of Gandhi contd...
In continuation to
http://random-rp.blogspot.com/2008/01/genius-of-gandhi.html
Something I wrote as reply to someone's doubts...You asked why did Gandhi suspended non-cooperation movement.
Please remember that Gandhi stuck to Gita in his life and deeds. If you would refer to chapter ii shloka 31 you will get the answer. The Shloka says (sorry I am not too good in translation.. someone else can do a better job.)"When there is time for your duty you should not run away from it; for there is no higher good for a Kshatriya than a righteous war. "Refer to last two words. Righteous war.
Indepndence struggle was a righteous war because it was unsaught. And the way it was being faught was through moral means. Now the moment we distroyed Chauri Chaura the war was no longer righteous. The British had a moral reason to avenge. Gandhi realized that in such a case the distinction of right and wrong would have blurred and the movement would have failed.If you need further explaination.
If I look at Nandigram I realise the power of this. The cause was right. But the outcomes ? No one knows who is right and who is wrong. And this blurring of lines was what Gandhi avoided and faught till his last breath to avoid this.
Some people call introduction of Rama as an idol in freedom struggle as foolishness.I call it the MASTER STROKE of independence struggle. Here you had to lead illiterate people into the struggle. What do they know about Marx and all. Could they relate to him. Could they connect to freedom struggle. They needed something they could connect to. And thanks to Tulsi Das Rama was known even in the remotest corners of India. Gandhi did not reinvent the wheel. He merely connected people to what they knew.
Gandhi was not a mere paper tiger or a strategist or an elitist leader. He toiled WITH the people in the villages and the streets. He led by example. That is what caused people to join in the struggle. Not the elitist leaders who could not talk to the masses.
http://random-rp.blogspot.com/2008/01/genius-of-gandhi.html
Something I wrote as reply to someone's doubts...You asked why did Gandhi suspended non-cooperation movement.
Please remember that Gandhi stuck to Gita in his life and deeds. If you would refer to chapter ii shloka 31 you will get the answer. The Shloka says (sorry I am not too good in translation.. someone else can do a better job.)"When there is time for your duty you should not run away from it; for there is no higher good for a Kshatriya than a righteous war. "Refer to last two words. Righteous war.
Indepndence struggle was a righteous war because it was unsaught. And the way it was being faught was through moral means. Now the moment we distroyed Chauri Chaura the war was no longer righteous. The British had a moral reason to avenge. Gandhi realized that in such a case the distinction of right and wrong would have blurred and the movement would have failed.If you need further explaination.
If I look at Nandigram I realise the power of this. The cause was right. But the outcomes ? No one knows who is right and who is wrong. And this blurring of lines was what Gandhi avoided and faught till his last breath to avoid this.
Some people call introduction of Rama as an idol in freedom struggle as foolishness.I call it the MASTER STROKE of independence struggle. Here you had to lead illiterate people into the struggle. What do they know about Marx and all. Could they relate to him. Could they connect to freedom struggle. They needed something they could connect to. And thanks to Tulsi Das Rama was known even in the remotest corners of India. Gandhi did not reinvent the wheel. He merely connected people to what they knew.
Gandhi was not a mere paper tiger or a strategist or an elitist leader. He toiled WITH the people in the villages and the streets. He led by example. That is what caused people to join in the struggle. Not the elitist leaders who could not talk to the masses.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
What the heck
Another stupid law in the making it seems. The Maharashtra government is planning to make a law planning to make HIV checkup compulsory before marriage.
Sounds good. But any similar concerns for the farmer suicides also ? Any concerns for the crashing infrastructure of Mumbai ? Water supply having sewage ? Seems the governments are learning the simple principle. Create smoke screen of all the inefficient services they provide. Keep people busy talking things that make no sense. That prevents people from looking at real matters.
Now coming to the point. Let us take a hypothetical marriage between person X and Y. X is HIV positive and does not know about it. They meet or their parents meet and the marriage is fixed. HIV test happens. The marriage breaks. You saved Y. But what about X. We are still a nation where school kids were not allowed to attend schools because their parents were HIV+. What happens to the social life and the circle of Mr. X. Has the government been able to create a society that does not discriminate people of basis of their HIV status. Has it been able to create a government office that does not discriminate people on that basis. Can the MLA heading the committee assure me that he will not hesitate in meeting and dining with an HIV + person.
If two adults are marrying by consensus, its up to them to decide their past, present and future. If the government were to educate people about HIV, that would be good. Great. That’s their job, but a government meddling in affairs without setting its house in order, without taking the pre steps before taking the next step is a disaster waiting to happen.
Sounds good. But any similar concerns for the farmer suicides also ? Any concerns for the crashing infrastructure of Mumbai ? Water supply having sewage ? Seems the governments are learning the simple principle. Create smoke screen of all the inefficient services they provide. Keep people busy talking things that make no sense. That prevents people from looking at real matters.
Now coming to the point. Let us take a hypothetical marriage between person X and Y. X is HIV positive and does not know about it. They meet or their parents meet and the marriage is fixed. HIV test happens. The marriage breaks. You saved Y. But what about X. We are still a nation where school kids were not allowed to attend schools because their parents were HIV+. What happens to the social life and the circle of Mr. X. Has the government been able to create a society that does not discriminate people of basis of their HIV status. Has it been able to create a government office that does not discriminate people on that basis. Can the MLA heading the committee assure me that he will not hesitate in meeting and dining with an HIV + person.
If two adults are marrying by consensus, its up to them to decide their past, present and future. If the government were to educate people about HIV, that would be good. Great. That’s their job, but a government meddling in affairs without setting its house in order, without taking the pre steps before taking the next step is a disaster waiting to happen.
Friday, January 25, 2008
January 26
Here comes another 26th January.. Their will be parades. News papers will have advertisements and editorials declaring the great feats that the nation has achieved. Their will be the mandatory holiday. And then their will be 27th January.
Sadly the day makes no difference in our lives. Except for the people who like to booze and hate this as being a dry day. Their are no celebrations, no special meals, no new dresses, nothing special at the level of the ordinary man, woman, child, family.
Even families which like to celebrate this day with poori sabji are called as 'Extra patriotic' by people. What the heck ! Never heard of extra hindus or extra muslims. We celebrate diwali because scriptures tell us that lord Rama returned Ayodhya on this day. And Ayodhya wasis celebrated his return. So on 15th August British left India. And I guess Indians celbrated their leaving. Why don't we celebrate that with the same spirit as Diwali. On 26th January India declared itself as indpendent in mind and in spirit. Why don't we celebrate it then ?
Unfurtunately, the question is clear, but the answer isn't. May be it is because we do not feel connected to these days. But then we do cheer when India wins cricket match. When India wnis world cup. Why not celebrate the days that gave us the right to celebrate this victory.
Perhaps it is because the day has been turned into sarkaari tamasha by our government. And we as Indians like to abhor most of the things that are sarkaari. But then what prevents us from celebrating this in our personal lives. Unfortunately, I don't have an answer to this question. But perhaps you might have it.. Please help by helping us understand the cause behind this and try and celebrate the national days in a manner befitting the world's oldest civilisation.
Sadly the day makes no difference in our lives. Except for the people who like to booze and hate this as being a dry day. Their are no celebrations, no special meals, no new dresses, nothing special at the level of the ordinary man, woman, child, family.
Even families which like to celebrate this day with poori sabji are called as 'Extra patriotic' by people. What the heck ! Never heard of extra hindus or extra muslims. We celebrate diwali because scriptures tell us that lord Rama returned Ayodhya on this day. And Ayodhya wasis celebrated his return. So on 15th August British left India. And I guess Indians celbrated their leaving. Why don't we celebrate that with the same spirit as Diwali. On 26th January India declared itself as indpendent in mind and in spirit. Why don't we celebrate it then ?
Unfurtunately, the question is clear, but the answer isn't. May be it is because we do not feel connected to these days. But then we do cheer when India wins cricket match. When India wnis world cup. Why not celebrate the days that gave us the right to celebrate this victory.
Perhaps it is because the day has been turned into sarkaari tamasha by our government. And we as Indians like to abhor most of the things that are sarkaari. But then what prevents us from celebrating this in our personal lives. Unfortunately, I don't have an answer to this question. But perhaps you might have it.. Please help by helping us understand the cause behind this and try and celebrate the national days in a manner befitting the world's oldest civilisation.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
The Rhino principle
There is a certain rule in life that I just thought is worth considering. If particularly applies when you are confronted by a crisis. And I would love to call it the Rhino principle.
Wait wait, before you leave. I know the rhino is not particularly sensible or clever animal! It is perhaps last of quadrupeds to carry a great weight of body amour. And by rules of progressive design and the process of natural selection and progressive design the rhino ought to have been eliminated. But it hasn't been. Why not?
The reason prehaps lies in one aspect of rhino - it is single-minded. When it perceives an object the rhino takes a decision - to charge. And it puts everything its got into the charge. When the charge is over, the object is either flattened or has gone a long way into cover, whereupon the rhino instantly resumes browsing.
Few people think of learning from a rhino. But I think I do. Or will try harder for it. Whenever I think of a task that can not be finished, or a start can not be made I will write in bold " Stop fussing about the job, just charge it. Keep on charging until it is finished. That's what the rhino does. Put this over the desk and remember the Rhino principle". I have tried this more than once. (Even in writing this). The rhino principle may not produce the perfect result, but it produces a result. It
produced an initial of this article. And once the draft was ready, I could improve and polish and bring it to a level of reasonable satisfaction. But ignore the rhino and even the initial is not produced.
Now there are other areas to which the principle can be applied, particularly politics and statesmanship. The monumental story of Chanakya is an exposition of this principle. Even in recent history of India this principle just sublimes. When Gandhi saw an object- the British, he just took the charge. And the nation just rallied behind him. And he kept on bulldozing the British till he succeeded. Even Jinnah, perhaps unfortunately was a living example of a rhino principle. Never perhaps in history did one man created a nation.
Now thinking of our present leadership. Is it cast in the same mold. I am afraid not. Be it congress, be it BJP (others are non existent) the spirit to take charge, the spirit to relentlessly pursue an aim is missing. The aim might be wrong, or it may be right but there has to be a spirit to follow it. Which perhaps is something our leaders’ lack. And may be this is what the nation lacks. More than the goal, we need leaders with spirit. We need leaders with less “niti” (policy) and more “neeyat” (spirit).
And there is another area in which the principle just bamboozles. Our lives. Moving to our personal lives we can go choose to lead our quiet lives and get through them without achieving much. But if we want to do the big thing, if we hope to leave the mark that will be admired and remembered, we will have to learn to distinguish between the peripheral and the essential. Then, having clearly established our central objective, we must charge it again and again until the goal is achieved.
That is the way the rhinoceros does. It may not be a model animal in most ways. But one thing it does very well. And that one thing we can learn. Charge!!!
Wait wait, before you leave. I know the rhino is not particularly sensible or clever animal! It is perhaps last of quadrupeds to carry a great weight of body amour. And by rules of progressive design and the process of natural selection and progressive design the rhino ought to have been eliminated. But it hasn't been. Why not?
The reason prehaps lies in one aspect of rhino - it is single-minded. When it perceives an object the rhino takes a decision - to charge. And it puts everything its got into the charge. When the charge is over, the object is either flattened or has gone a long way into cover, whereupon the rhino instantly resumes browsing.
Few people think of learning from a rhino. But I think I do. Or will try harder for it. Whenever I think of a task that can not be finished, or a start can not be made I will write in bold " Stop fussing about the job, just charge it. Keep on charging until it is finished. That's what the rhino does. Put this over the desk and remember the Rhino principle". I have tried this more than once. (Even in writing this). The rhino principle may not produce the perfect result, but it produces a result. It
produced an initial of this article. And once the draft was ready, I could improve and polish and bring it to a level of reasonable satisfaction. But ignore the rhino and even the initial is not produced.
Now there are other areas to which the principle can be applied, particularly politics and statesmanship. The monumental story of Chanakya is an exposition of this principle. Even in recent history of India this principle just sublimes. When Gandhi saw an object- the British, he just took the charge. And the nation just rallied behind him. And he kept on bulldozing the British till he succeeded. Even Jinnah, perhaps unfortunately was a living example of a rhino principle. Never perhaps in history did one man created a nation.
Now thinking of our present leadership. Is it cast in the same mold. I am afraid not. Be it congress, be it BJP (others are non existent) the spirit to take charge, the spirit to relentlessly pursue an aim is missing. The aim might be wrong, or it may be right but there has to be a spirit to follow it. Which perhaps is something our leaders’ lack. And may be this is what the nation lacks. More than the goal, we need leaders with spirit. We need leaders with less “niti” (policy) and more “neeyat” (spirit).
And there is another area in which the principle just bamboozles. Our lives. Moving to our personal lives we can go choose to lead our quiet lives and get through them without achieving much. But if we want to do the big thing, if we hope to leave the mark that will be admired and remembered, we will have to learn to distinguish between the peripheral and the essential. Then, having clearly established our central objective, we must charge it again and again until the goal is achieved.
That is the way the rhinoceros does. It may not be a model animal in most ways. But one thing it does very well. And that one thing we can learn. Charge!!!
Salaries for political workers
Inspiration to this came from my father when he said "I am a big notch beurocrat; I have a salary of Rs. 35,000; I can be honest. But how can I expect a peon with salary of Rs 4000 to be honest. Its is impractical. And brutal. And dishonest"
Just thought of some wierd idea for improving Indian political system.. Brickbats welcome..Bouqets most welcome.
Should Indian political parties be paying salaries to its workers ? It was a concept that was tried (and perhaps still is) in Communist parties. But I am talking about bigger salaries. This system I feel can cleanse the Indian political system. (You can not live at Rs 850 salary in Delhi)
I feel the reason behind corruption is that once a person decides to step into politics there is no legitimate way for him\her to earn money. We are still stuck with politics being the oh so noble profession. But it still is a profession. Think of it. We would never had Gandhiji as Mahatma had Gokhale not persuaded him to stop worryin aout money for his family and that people would take care of him. And they did take of him. And he did not paid to most of them back. And he was the mahatma. But what happens to the young guy who at a stage in his life tells his parents "I am going to be a politician".
Think of yourslef as that person. And think what would parents reaction be. You can fight all about chaning the system and the system needing good people. But what happens and the end of it. How will you support your life. Either your turn yourself to the mahatma and reduce your needs to the minimum. But what if you can't ? You then indulge in all illegitimate methods to earn money. And turn into a goon .Is politics a profession only for saints or goons ?
sadly this has been the story of our democracy for the past 50-60 years. For the 10-15 years you had saints( till late 60s). Then you had all goons( represented by Sanjay). Then JP launched his well intentioned but completely misdirected sampoorna Kranti missile. It had all the noble aspiring youngsters like Laloo, paswan jumping into politics to clean it. But without money to feed his family of 9 (or 10 or 11) did laloo had a choice other than to turn to corruption ?So after that you had two breeds of corrupt folks- one new breed of Jannta family and other old family of congress fighting till late 90s. In 90s with growing frustration among people emerged a new alternative. The RSS family. But it had a gene pool almost same as the other two. Once it failed you now have the current no one is fit to rule situation.
And let us admit there have been attempts to cleanse the system. By Rajiv, by Vinoba Bhave, by JP, by many people. But I suspect it is more directed at the superficial. The political parties pick from people who select to be there workers (atleast theoritically). And these workers do not have any means to support them and there family if they enter politics full time (and you can't make it big unless you are full time). So you either kill your desires (which is a great idea but not always possible). Or they be paid honest salaries.
There are some more ideas but let us open this to discussion first.
Public figures parallel to Gandhi today ???
don't think there is anyone who is close to being Gandhi... But in my opinion these people are closest
1. Nanaji Deshmukh- For his exemplary work in villages and his selfless service. Also he has maintained a moral authority over his supporters. So even he might be in opposite camp he appears close.
2. Baba Amte - Perhaps the closest. In views and in action.
3. Bala Saahab Thakre - Perhaps the most convroversial, perhaps most anti Gandhi person. But he is one of the few politicos who speaks his heart. And that in my view was one of the rare abilities that he has in common to Gandhi. No matter what the consequence this man has spoken his heart. Similar to Gandhi. Though his actions and his philosphy are entirely different and I do not subscribe to them.
Internationally1. Nelson Mandela - for his work against aprtheid in SA. And his ability to bring everyone together after that.
2. Martin Luther King - Again for rasing voice of the unheard and oppressed and not destroying the society in process.
3. Dalai Lama - Perhaps closest to Gandhi. Though his eternal dream continues to elude him.
4. Aung San Suu Kyi
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
The genius of Gandhi
I interpet non-violence as another weapon used in war.. And therein lies the genius of Gandhi.. He turned the conventional theories of war up side down, and that's what confuses his detractors..Every new battle needs a new weapon for victory... Else you don't win.. The WWII was won by nuclear weapons.. WWI by tanks..first Iraq war by attacking armies media centres..Colonialism was faught by non-violence..A new kind of weapon..Something that british had no answer to.. It was simple. The british thought it to be the white man's burden to civilize the world. Here were brown men behaving in a more civilized manner than them. It shook them. The date and the timings of their departure was immaterial. The empire's roots were disturbed. That was the genius of Gandhi...
I also have another feeling with regards to Gandhi cancelling agitations in middle. Perhaps, he knew that independence was to come sooner or later. What was more important that Indians learnt to govern themselves and got a stream of leaders to do it. Perhaps, this explains, why India has performed better than any former British colony ( And I am talking nations, not cities). Compare India to Pakistan, Burma, Ceylone and you realize the importance of having grass root leaders that he created. May be this is where Zinnah erred. He created a nation but never created the machinery to govern it. I think he did tried his best to attack caste system. But in a sense he again realised that you can't remove caste system totally from India. And this shows true even today. We have new 'high' castes emerging. In UP there are new highs and lows emerging depending on who wins the elections. Had he been allowed to remove the evils of caste systems this would not have emerged today.
Varna system in its purest form is perhaps not all that bad. But in this form you attempt to live all the varnas oneself in one's life. You learn as a kid, fight as an adult, make money in mid age and serve others in the last phases of life. What's wrong here ?
Just reminded of one quote that Gandhi used about western civilsation, 'It's a good idea...' !!! We have our defects, but the attempt should be to purge them. Not to kill the tree for rotten fruits. And that was what other socialist reformers and others attempted and has created the mess that we have in certain parts.
I also have another feeling with regards to Gandhi cancelling agitations in middle. Perhaps, he knew that independence was to come sooner or later. What was more important that Indians learnt to govern themselves and got a stream of leaders to do it. Perhaps, this explains, why India has performed better than any former British colony ( And I am talking nations, not cities). Compare India to Pakistan, Burma, Ceylone and you realize the importance of having grass root leaders that he created. May be this is where Zinnah erred. He created a nation but never created the machinery to govern it. I think he did tried his best to attack caste system. But in a sense he again realised that you can't remove caste system totally from India. And this shows true even today. We have new 'high' castes emerging. In UP there are new highs and lows emerging depending on who wins the elections. Had he been allowed to remove the evils of caste systems this would not have emerged today.
Varna system in its purest form is perhaps not all that bad. But in this form you attempt to live all the varnas oneself in one's life. You learn as a kid, fight as an adult, make money in mid age and serve others in the last phases of life. What's wrong here ?
Just reminded of one quote that Gandhi used about western civilsation, 'It's a good idea...' !!! We have our defects, but the attempt should be to purge them. Not to kill the tree for rotten fruits. And that was what other socialist reformers and others attempted and has created the mess that we have in certain parts.
Friday, January 18, 2008
The British created India ???
I don't agree that Britishers defined the entity called India. May be India but definitley not Bharat.. Bharat existed and prosopered even when Europe was in dark ages. It has existed even when Greece and Rome which were its contemporaries have long vanished.
As per Europian defintion a nation is defined by boundaries, governments, rules. I don't agree. A nation is defined by soul. And the soul of India was distroyed by British. Even today piligrims from Rameshwaram offer water to temple in Varanasi. Infact before British I doubt if they even cared about states. The fact that former is in Tamil Nadu and latter in UP was introduced by British. The concept of North India, South India was introduced by British and has been cemented by our poilticos. If India has survived it is because of this sole. Sole that leads to melas at Kumbha and ursa at Ajmer. And I think the reason behind troubles in Pakistan and Bangladesh is that they are created against the sole. They are created in the flawed european model and are now being held up against the laws of nature. No wonder you need unnatural nation building forces like army to protect them.
Indian nationhood was different. Let their be states. let them fight. Let rulers be changed. But do not stop people to people interaction. That is the ultimate aim of of any nation building excercise. This is what Europe is trying to achieve now. This is what Gandhi said when he said that he will cross over to Pakistan and not recognise the boundaries.
I somehow feel that Indians would have fought a lot had british not come. But we would have been more propserous..Because the money would not have drained away as it happened with british raj.. And eventually we would have evolved as EU. Don't forget that England and France were the bitterest of opponents till some time back... And to some extent they still are...Friday, January 4, 2008
ID cards compulsory
This is with regards to id cards being compulsory for all in Delhi.
I believe this is the MOST idiotic of guidelines till date. On one hand the governement has failed to ensure that everyone has id cards. Now this is rubbing salt on the wounds. This has more chances of being used than abused.
Isn't this similiar to arms act. Something that Gandhi said draconian. Every criminal has weapons. Good people don't have; and are killed by bad people. Now can a beggar on the street have an id card. This is giving the police an option to extort hafta from him as and when required. A criminal on the other card can have 'n' number of if cards as per requirements. Sounds idiotic.
But perhaps the whole security thing is. I remember an incident at Newark during high security alert. Here was I screened head to toe at the screening. Made to take off my shoes, socks and all. Checked for 10 minutes. Then when I was boarding Air India they started another screening. With ill functioning body scanners that can't detect a thing. Just make tee tee chee chee sound. I understood there efficiency when I was able to touch Bajpeyee's feet and realised later that I had a french army knife in pocket. Look at the security in any temple in India. It is more hoopla that real delivery. More style than substance.
I think we need to take a more pragmatic approach at security. And stop these FUNNY rules in names of security.
I believe this is the MOST idiotic of guidelines till date. On one hand the governement has failed to ensure that everyone has id cards. Now this is rubbing salt on the wounds. This has more chances of being used than abused.
Isn't this similiar to arms act. Something that Gandhi said draconian. Every criminal has weapons. Good people don't have; and are killed by bad people. Now can a beggar on the street have an id card. This is giving the police an option to extort hafta from him as and when required. A criminal on the other card can have 'n' number of if cards as per requirements. Sounds idiotic.
But perhaps the whole security thing is. I remember an incident at Newark during high security alert. Here was I screened head to toe at the screening. Made to take off my shoes, socks and all. Checked for 10 minutes. Then when I was boarding Air India they started another screening. With ill functioning body scanners that can't detect a thing. Just make tee tee chee chee sound. I understood there efficiency when I was able to touch Bajpeyee's feet and realised later that I had a french army knife in pocket. Look at the security in any temple in India. It is more hoopla that real delivery. More style than substance.
I think we need to take a more pragmatic approach at security. And stop these FUNNY rules in names of security.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)