T H E K E R N E L O F G U J A R A T

The ‘Modi’ fied Radiance – No Change of Decorations !!!

It’s the Saffron flag flying high in Gujarat ! Congress expected a last minute Harry Potter-1 twist but unfortunately seems to have landed itself in the ditch once more !

The final battle has now come to an end although the outcome was predictable and obvious. The graphical backdrop in the CNN IBN studio said it all ! One man wins hands down. The Chief Minster who calls himself a ‘Common Man’ is all geared up for another term of ruling the state single handedly. What is even more intriguing is the fact that the 2002 Godhra carnage seems to have been set aside and people are moving on with time. But hang on ! The Muslims are a minority in the State and this has certainly helped this one man to build up his army massively. What an empire !!! An empire that is not blotted with coalitions but ruled over by just one emperor, a successful emperor ! ‘Change is evitable’- Modi has rewritten the saying. The factors that were predicted to go against him seemed to have very little effect, be it the Anti-Incumbent factor or the Sohrabuddin encounter or the much hyped about betrayal of his own party cadres. The BJP is in a split and the crackdown right in the middle didn’t seem to have a big impact on the elections. Somehow, Modi plastered it way ahead of the elections. Now, the RSS, VHP and Kesubhai Patel have gone down the no man’s lane from which they are trying to recover. The question that keeps reverberating in my mind is ‘How can anybody forget the Godhra carnage where around 3000 people were massacred?’ A statistical analysis reminded me that the kith and kin of these 3000 people didn’t constitute Gujarat in entirety.

I happened to read a book called ‘In High Places’ by Arthur Hailey recently. The book is in and out political. I wondered how a small incident like the plight of a stowaway could affect the stability of the Government in power. The Opposition parties have this uncanny knack of magnifying a small drop in the ocean. What enthralls me the most about Modi is his ability to come out of all criticisms virtually unscathed !It was a decisive victory though the party is down by just 10 and odd seats from the previous mandate. The Tehelka expose was out of the news after a day(The Tehelka is a close ally of Congress ! That is another issue altogether !) How was it possible for him hush down all the criticisms !!!??? I wonder !!!!

Statistics show that Gujarat has recorded a 11 % increase in the state’s development during Narendra Modi’s rule. Well, you see ‘All that glitters is not Gold’ !!! But one cannot take away the credit Modi deserves albeit the fact that darker shades still exist. Just that these shades are dormant !

Modi has become a cult figure in India and more than being loved, all his publicity comes from being hated or to put it more precisely – the media’s continued projection of hatred against Modi.

Political nuances are best learnt from Modi. He is the man with the Midas touch. Let’s see how long his magic whirls around ! The next five years will be closely watched. The Congress’ trump card remained the 2002 Godhra Carnage but now the BJP can very comfortably retaliate with a resurfacing 1984 Sikh riot case. Everybody is masked !!! All of them have their own share of black spots !

D E S I G N

Now, that's pretty difficult to decipher !!! My mother gave me a blank expression !!! I made this for my slam book. It's not an Ambigram because Ambigram generally is Inversion. This is something different. It reads 'Memories Withheld' in the same direction that is, the letters are written in such a way that they read both the words. The concept behind this design is that one's thoughts(that's the ball of thoughts !!) strike a mirror and it cracks scattering a number of glass pieces that read 'Memories Withheld'.

P.S. Criticisms welcome !!!! (I deserve many !!!)

O B S E R V A T I O N S

God it's GOD !!!!

Curtain raises

Location: Breakfast place – The Machines’ Lab !

Saranya : enna di ore bhakthimayamaa vandhirukke
Nee thaan atheist ache (Subha joins her)
Me: atheist ???? me !!!! Who told you?????
Subha : hey aren’t you an atheist?????
Me : No!!!!
Saranya : en di vibhudhi vechirukke
Me : Dad wanted me to !!! yen atheist aa irundhaa vibhudhi vechikkakudatha?
Sowmya : seri freeya vidunga di…….(a perfect ending !!!)

Curtain falls


Atheism !!!

I am apprehensive about being branded that way ! Strangely, my mum too regards me an atheist. Am I feigning theism or for that matter atheism? Well, I did give a sincere and a serious thought about it and unraveled something really interesting about my mystical thought process. I deem the so-called ‘Holy Scriptures’ to be an ‘Outstanding fantasy writing’ very much like our present J K Rowling’s magnificence in writing. Thousands of centuries later, who knows, Harry Potter could be reckoned a ‘happened-before’ incident. To me, these scriptures are implausible. I personally feel that such stories were made up to instill fear in the minds of people. It was a very tactful creation to claim a stronghold on people. Many would cite various existing and traces of once existed artifacts, monuments and pagodas. My strong conviction is that such things were already anticipated and pre meditated. Am I sounding like I have been greatly influenced by Dan Brown’s ‘The Da Vinci Code’? Well, No !

I don’t doubt holiness but I doubt the very ‘Personification of Holiness’ or simply the 'Humanness of God'. See, (I’m still capitalizing the first letter of ‘God’ ! I was taught in my school days that it was an unwritten rule to capitalize the first letter in words like ‘God’ and ‘Himself’) I do believe in higher powers but not a total surrender to an illusionary personification of higher power. I believe that somewhere in our body, there is a place that gives you some confidence and consolation in times of distress and loneliness. It is this strange feeling that has been tactfully exploited by many who declare ‘Believe in God’ rather than ‘Believe in Yourself’ !

I know what you are thinking ! I am sounding too prejudiced and atheistic ! But am not !!! I am an atheist when it’s prefixed with various super natural beliefs like Astrology and others. I am a theist when it’s prefixed with some higher (not above the sky !!! but the zenith of knowledge – one’s own mind !) power centering on the individual.

Temples !!! I visit temples, though not frequently. But I love going there because it gives me a sense of peace. The idols are beautifully carved and sculptured and just like how Sara Crewe gives me immense pleasure, so do those ‘Divine idols’. Temples are made of stone and such stones add some chillness and peace to the atmosphere. I love the way these stones treat me when I enter a temple (I’ve never been to a church or a mosque !).

How am I vetoing the allegations thrown on me of being an atheist ? I am not against prayers. To me, God is the manifestation of one’s own self-belief. It exudes a feeling of not being lonely. I do pray ! The belief or the confidence that sets upon us while praying is very scintillating. But I am very much against these ‘Deiva kuththams’ or ‘Parihaarams’ ! They are a means of escapism or abstinence.

Well, I don’t know if I have put my feelings about the issue properly in writing !!!

Who knows what will happen? One fine day I may be writing about my spiritual experiences as a firm believer of God vetoing whatever I wrote in here ! But this is my outlook as of now !!!

P.S. This post is not intended to hurt the sentiments of anybody. These are personal opinions and I suppose I am given the fundamental ‘Right of speech and dissent’. If I happen to hurt somebody through my writings, I apologize not for my thoughts but for my way of putting it in a manner that was offending !

P.P.S. Forgot to mention about this ! When some book happens to touch my feet, reflexively and invariably I tap my hands on the cheek and blow a kiss(that’s how everybody does while praying !!!!). Such habits have been sown right from my young age and they are deep-rooted ! And I don’t intend to get rid of such things too !! What’s the harm ?

P.P.P.S. Wondering what P.P.S is? Well, it’s nothing !! Post the Post Script !!! Now, don’t come about asking me what P.P.P.S is?
That was intended to finish on a lighter note after a heavy weight thought process exhausted all my resources like Time, Energy, Memory and others ! No wonder why they call ‘Threads’ a lightweight process !!! Got to segregate my brain like threads and ensure Multi-tasking ! (I am back from a hectic examination, so please put up with this ‘mokkai’ !)

D I W A L I M A N I A

Hurray ! It's Diwali !

Diwali !! The ultimate day of festivities and grandeur !! The entire country is gripped with Diwali celebrations. What a day !!! For college goers like me, it’s a dream come true. You know why ? It’s holiday time because colleges like ours hardly give us any relief from the normal hectic schedule of mechanically attending classes and completing observations and records. I’m not spared as yet because I’m on study holidays ! And it’s a typhoon ready to hit all of us on November 16 th. What a pity !!! Our Diwali celebrations for these past 4 years have always been with Exam-Phobia !!

All of a sudden, small textile shops near my place seem to be flooded with a range of good looking dresses, be it the beautifully embroidered skirts or designer saris. Loads of platform shops have sprung up these past few days and everything seems so colorful and beautiful ! The aroma that the sweets emanate during their making is mouth watering.

But this Diwali seems to be sober for my neighbors. The regular noise pollution is on the fall this year and I find many people expressing their apathy to enjoy Diwali by bursting crackers. Life has become so hectic and time is running fast. It’s almost a routine for many to work more than 12 hours a day and cuddle up like a baby once their eyes droop with fatigue. So many don’t seem to be interested in landing themselves in physical labor like bursting crackers.

Thankfully, the Television has come up with good shows for this Diwali. The race for TRP between various Tamil channels, in particular Kalaignar and Sun TV is a real festive treat for viewers like me. Super hit movies are screened in all channels and I’m going to handpick my movie from the various options. The rivalry is really benefiting viewers and it’s happy times during festive seasons !!

Adding on to this, various movies are slated for release this Diwali. It’s going to be a neck-to-neck competition between ‘Saawariya’ and ‘Om Shanti Om’. Money is going to flood the distributors this season. Well, that’s for Bollywood buffs !!! For Kollywood buffs, it’s a range of movies this Diwali and what a pity, all the movies are house full in good theaters even before their release. ‘Kannamoochi Enada’ starring my favorite actor should be a good pick(Hey am not publicising !!!).

The police is extra cautious this Diwali. The rule that crackers shouldn’t be used after 10 in the night up till 6 in the morning is a lump in the throats of many Diwali freaks. The ban could be spared at least on the Day of Diwali. The dark sky would be glittering with the lights of crackers. What a sight !!!! Sad that the spectacle cannot be witnessed this year !

Somehow, Diwali has never fascinated me as it does for many albeit I enjoy the fireworks’ manifestation on the sky. I remember taking an oath in my 6 th standard that fireworks are the products of tiny tots whose hands are supposed to hold pens and pencils and therefore the bottom line is ‘Don’t burst crackers’. That is a defeated argument now ! In point of fact, there are loads of people near my place who can’t afford such fireworks and I feel obliged to give them company at least this way ! And shopping !! My God ! ‘Give me a break’ would be my courteous reply ! T Nagar is swamped with people and I would easily vanish in the crowd !! Why taking a risk ! Thanks to the textile proprietors, the shops are now opened till midnights but hey the crowd don’t seem to recede even at midnights !

Decisively, my plans for Diwali are as follows
Eat
Sleep
Eat
Sleep......

And occasional studying for my exam !!! :(
Although am cynical about doing the last.
:P

Happy Diwali !!!! Have a blast !


P.S. This Diwali is certainly a Happy one because our Indian Doctors have achieved a really rare feat by saving the 2 yr old Lakshmi ! Hats off to those saviours !!!
Well, I’m going to celebrate her recovery with an extra course of eating and sleeping ! ;-)

P O L I T I C A L I M B A L A N C E

‘Emergency’ – A Country in Turmoil !

A monstrous wave of high tension and commotion seem to be gripping our neighborhood. Pity ! The lives of Pakistani people are reduced to a drama silently viewed by spectators. An Emergency is proclaimed during crisis or national disasters or when there is a rise of unsocial activities. The President has cited various reasons for the imposition of Emergency.

Mr. Pervez Musharaff alleges that terrorist and militant activities have been on the rise. Well, as an observer, I say with the reports from Newspapers and Television channels that there have been hardly 4-5 incidents of terrorist activities in the year 2007, the major being the Karachi bombing during Benazir Bhutto’s return from exile. The Judiciary’s interference is another issue !

Now that the elections are due in the month of January 2008, the President seems certainly a desperate man (as Imran Khan rightly puts it !) taking desperate measures to save his Government from a fall. Be it the chucking of Nawaz Sharif on his return from exile on grounds that his agreement of exile with the President was still active, or the sacking of the Chief Justice Ifthikar Choudary due to personal dislikes, all these show the desperate attempts of a 64-year old military ruler to hold on to his power. The Government has certainly pulled up their socks to show their might ! At what cost ??

Politics is dirty indeed. It’s almost impossible to survive there unless one has the quality attribute of being a chameleon. Indians got to witness this of late in Karnataka where the JD(S) and the BJP played their way to discredit. It’s happening in Pakistan. I wonder how Benazir even accepted to strike a deal with the President even when he masterminded that political coup 7 years back ! Well, Benazir Bhutto is definitely not incompetent and dumb enough forge an alliance.

Many reckon this Emergency to be a ‘Martial Law’. It would be really interesting to see how long this ‘Martial Law’ continues. As on Monday (5 th November 2007) the lawyers have taken to the streets as a mark of protest. The Judiciary has been a pain in the neck for the General be it the controversy regarding the Steel Mill Plant or the interference in the whereabouts of missing terrorists. This triggered the General to sack the Chief Justice. And what a misfire !!! The Chief Justice was reinstated with greater fanfare. What a heavy blow !!!

There was a State of Emergency declared in India during Indira Gandhi’s tenure as Prime Minister. It went on for a period of 2 years during which many social and economic reforms were made. But she failed to pull up her PM status the next elections. That was when Morarji Desai won with an overwhelming majority and took over as the PM. Well, am cynical over Pakistan’s State of Emergency. If all goes well and peace is restored, then it’s well and good. As long as Pakistan is plunged into darkness, it would be really difficult for the Kashmiris. Pakistan would be too busy to go ahead with India’s peace talks.

What is even more intriguing is that the neighboring countries are mum about the entire issue in Pakistan. India is not ready to mince words as it is bound to be a target of US’s wrath in case of antagonistic interference (that too with the Nuke Deal on hands !). Myanmar and Nepal are busy resolving their internal conflicts. Sri Lanka is all-full with its never-ending war with the LTTE. The same goes with others. But it’s heartening to see Pakistan’s voice through Indian media.

Let’s hope that the once so-called Democratic Pakistan comes out of the hoods of the so-called Dictatorship (I wonder why? When a State of Emergency is proclaimed, the convener is always called a ‘Dictator’ !!!) to begin a new lease of life as a true Democratic Country.

The General is for sure 'In the Line of Fire' !

C L E A N B O W L E D

Modi - An Escapist or A Futurist?


Mr. Karan Thapar’s interview with Gujarat Chief Minister Mr. Narendra Modi.

http://www.ibnlive.com/news/modi-wont-talk-godhra-walks-out-of-interview/50835-3.html

Many would reckon this to be a testimony to Mr Modi’s shameless character. True, the past haunts every person. Be it the 1984 Anti Sikh riots that was the result of Indira Gandhi’s assassination or be it the 1993 Mumbai blasts or be it the 2002 Gujarat communal riots, all drive home one basic fact. The then or the now ruling parties have always been apologetic and are the first to convey their condolences. But their mere apology is not going to compensate the immense trauma, the victims or their kinfolk faced and still face. One can get an idea of how speedy, justice is delivered in India(it’s almost been 14 years and the judgement is still at pending for the Mumbai riots. Mr. Sanjay Dutt is still scott-free- dated : 20 October 2007) ! I get reminded of Arjun and Raghuvaran in Mudhalvan (where Raghuvaran plays the CM and Arjun, a journalist) when I see Karan Thapar playing the devil’s advocate to Mr. Modi. What is even more intriguing is that Mr. Modi never wants to speak about certain issues, the primary being the Godhra carnage. His speech at the HT summit was an eye opener to Gujarat’s developments and it’s international recognition. But when confronted by Rajdeep about the 2002 riots, he merely shrugged his shoulders and snubbed him. Well, a CM is answerable to all his deeds, be it good or bad. His conversation with Karan that lasted hardly 5 minutes was a total fiasco. Had he sat there and answered all the questions that were fired to him, then he would have been hailed as one who not only blows his own trumpet about his ‘Service’ to the State, but also his debacles. As a CM, he owes an explanation to each and every person any time, any place, and how many ever times it could be. Escapism wouldn’t do any good Mr. CM. By doing so, you seem to prove your critics who call you a ‘Mass Murderer’, ‘Anti-Muslim’ and so on.

I am not against Mr. Modi or for Mr. Thapar. Mr. Thapar for his side should try to reduce his aggression (like Sreesanth!). And I don’t understand the necessity for him to converse in English when Mr. Modi is never comfortable in English. There are allegations against CNN-IBN being anti-BJP and pro-Congress. I think an interview with Ms. Sonia Gandhi or Dr. Manmohan Singh about the 1984 Anti Sikh riots, Bofors scam, the centre’s indifference towards Quattrochchi’s extradition and the Nuke Deal fiasco would shut the mouths of critics.

Many people feel that the topic of Gujarat riots should have never come up during the HT summit and the interview. It’s because they all want to forget the past and start living the future by talking about Gujarat’s economic developments. Had their near and dear ones been the victims of the Gujarat carnage then such a statement would never have been made. It’s always better to remember the past, so that the same mistake is not committed once more. And there is a Hidden Reality too ! People always want to talk about good things. When shameful aspects of the India’s situation come into limelight, they are scared of it because they magnify out of proportions! The hype over the economic development always masks India’s shame, making people ignorant and unmindful about the pathetic condition of the Other India ! As a result, the poor and the needy are never given a thought.

U P R O A R

In the name of Ram !

A stupendous war of words! The news channels are having a blast about the Sethusamudram project and we get to hear fresh accusations and threats everyday !

Religion is certainly a delicate issue. When is comes to the politicians, it’s a big piece of a cake ! Be it the Babri Masjid issue or the Sabarimala or the latest Adam’s bridge where the Sethusamudram project is being planned.

The main idea of the Sethusamudram project is to provide a navigable sea route. Previously it used to be a circumnavigation of SriLanka to reach the Chennai harbor. On implementing the proposed project the travel would be reduced by approximately 30 hours and moreover TamilNadu, in particular Rameshwaram would become a hub for trading ships. The State will economically benefit on its implementation.

The statement issued by the Archeological Survey of India has definitely sparked off protests and the VHP and BJP are thoroughly enjoying it all. The Congress has been facing stiff situations these past 3 months. First it was the Quattrochchi’s extradition, then came the Nuke Deal, and now it’s the Sethusamudram issue. The ruling party is under constant pressure from Karunanidhi to sanction the project.

And the Congress is actually behaving in a way that could benefit its opposition. Ms Ambika Soni’s remarks over the issue have definitely kindled fire. And then there was mayhem in the party itself regarding her resignation.

What a pity ! Politics in the name of religion ! The interesting part was a fatwa that was issued against the DMK leader by Vedanti. Remember, Vedanti was an MP before. And then came an apology from him.

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“Jo Karunanidhi ka sar kaat kar layega usko sone se taula jayega.”
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(Anyone who cuts off Karunanidhi’s head will be weighed against gold.)
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And Mr. Vedanti retorted back telling that freedom of expression was not a license to commit blasphemy !

Karunanidhi for his part played well. He questioned if Ram studied in an engineering college and ultimately His existence.
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''Ram is as big a lie as Himalayas and Ganges. I merely told the fact, I did not intend to hurt anyone's sentiments. There is no question of withdrawing my statement.''
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And this followed an attack on the DMK chief’s daughter’s house in Bangalore.

As rulers, politicians should have been careful when they voice their opinions. They need to be extra careful when talking about religious matters. Karunanidhi’s remarks over Ram’s existence have for sure invited trouble from theists. When the sentiments of a larger section of people are at stake, he shouldn’t have made such comments.

The NASA has reported that the Adam’s Bridge was a natural formation and not man-made. There is absolutely no concrete evidence that Lord Rama had built it.

What is even more intriguing is that the entire issue has been restricted to religious concerns. The environmental concerns was completely ignored. Had any of the VHP,BJP politicians questioned the environmental impacts had the project been implemented, it would have made sense. It’s strange that BJP had given a green signal during its rule and its coalition with the DMK. Now, it seems to be having serious problems with DMK. Well, that’s how chameleons are supposed to be. Political scenarios definitely change with time like how change is inevitable !

The Gulf of Mannar is one of Asia’s richest coral reserves. The dredging along the proposed transit would be hazardous to the marine life. And moreover, the shipping canal would be directly accessible to Jaffna or the Yazhpanam, which is the epicenter for civil conflict. So there is always a constant fear of the harbor being used by the LTTE for their gains.

The Gulf of Mannar facilitates shallow fishing, which is a source of income for many in the area of Rameshwaram and other districts. On the project being implemented, the marine life is at stake, the ecological balance is lost and the oil spills into the sea could make the situation even more worse, when the entire world has been combating Global Warming.

An environmental assessment of the entire area would help. The DMK has already submitted

it's environmental report and claims that not much of damage would be inflicted on marine life. But environmental assessments and surveys from various other NGO’s and the plight of fishermen speak otherwise.

Here is an interim report on the Sethusamudram project and it’s environmental impacts when implemented.

http://www.tamilinfoservice.com/manitham/environment/sscp/ir.htm

A special committee should be formed to investigate the pros and cons. When the pros heavy weigh the cons and when contingency plans are made to eliminate the cons, there would be a unanimous approval for the dream project of Tamilians. Otherwise, it would still remain a dream. And don’t forget ! Implementing the Sethusamudram project was one of Karunanidhi’s election promise. So, the Congress is really in a fix ! The Nuke Deal is adding to its woes !

M U S I C

The Maestro's Wand !

Illayaraja ! The name says it all !

A prolific music composer of over 700 films to his credit, Raja, as he is fondly called is still one of the most sought after music directors in India.

Two Tamilians figure prominently in the list of 100 great Indian film composers – A R Rahman and our Maestro Illayaraja. He is the man of music. Music that directly touches the soul and mesmerizes the listener. Music directors of yester years created beautiful melodies with the right kind of lyrics blended in. But one aspect where they seemed to fail was in the background score. Illayaraja’s excellent orchestration provided the much needed background strength for movies.

A R Rahman created revolution with his excellent use of technology. Very minute sounds made music. What is that that distinguishes Raja from Rahman? Both are excellent composers. But one aspect heavy weighs Raja’s genius. When you listen to Raja’s songs, it goes deep down into your heart and gives you immense pleasure and peace. Rahman’s music, to me, has never touched my heart. Your brain enjoys but your heart does not accept the music.

Music requires creativity. Raja is extremely creative. The song ‘O Vasantha Raja’ has haunting music with a slow transition from classical to western. What a song ! The song will remain etched in my heart !

One of the many masterpieces is ‘Elangathu Veesudhe’ from Pithamagan. My all-time favorite ! Sriram’s voice suits the song like a T. The voices that he chooses for his songs are excellent.

Take ‘Thendral Vandhu Ennai Thodum’ or ‘Idhu oru ponmaalai’ , the music is enchanting. Raja would have made good use of his contemporaries - Yesudas and SPB

The list of songs is never ending. There is a magnetic supremacy in his music that places him unanimously right in top among people’s list of favorite music composers.

Raja made his mark and is still making a mark in Telugu, Hindi and many other languages. He won the National award for Saagara Sangamam and Rudraveena even though the Tamil version ‘Unnal Mudiyum Thambi’ did not fetch him a National recognition.

The Malayalam song ‘Oru Chiri Kandaal’ from Ponmudi Puzhayorathu(I think I got the spelling right !) has a typical IR stamp. The voices add beauty to the composition. (I listen to the song everyday. The music gives me immense pleasure.)

The soft interludes that he adds to his compositions are brilliant.

It’s not Music. It’s Divinity ! It’s something more than that too ! His magical wand has certainly attracted innumerable admirers across the globe.

Eagerly waiting for his forthcoming creations. His music is a SAVIOUR. Long live Illayaraja ! Even if that’s not possible, his music will remain immortal !

P H O T O C O R N E R

Roger Federer.My favourite sportsperson !

Federer reacts with ecstasy after defeating Novak Joke-O-Vic(as he is rightly called !) in the nerve-wrecking US open 2007 final.

Roger Federer is seen kissing his fourth straight US open trophy.He topped Djokovic 7-6(4),7-6(2).6-4.

P O E T R Y

Mother

An ocean of emotions
Paving way to paramount happiness
The unconditional love
With a deep sense of devotion
That is never susceptible to fault
Who is this philanthropist?
The light behind the darkness
That illuminates and radiates joy

Mother !

She actively pursues her goals
And includes you in all her goals
She is an embodiment of sacrifice
Helping us in structuring our character edifice
She is the devil’s advocate of evils
Protecting us from all perils

Mother
You are a tree
Under whose shade we live
You are always there during hard times
Helping us to crawl our way to safety
We rip open your heart with sinful acts
But you always make up your heart
For you always lend your heart to us,
Come what may !

Mother
You are a problem-solver
A motivator
A great teacher
A honing tool
A torch-bearer
And what not ?
Your love is far beyond defining
For it defies explanation
You are God sent
For we see God Himself in you
Giving us an evidence of His existence
We owe you a debt
That can never be paid.


Love You Mother
Please don’t leave me !
For, without you
I would be NOTHING !



Happy Birthday Mummy !

I love you.

This is a small Birthday gift from your daughter.

Hope you like it Mum.

Dated: September 3 '07

A M B I G R A M S

I had to work on this for almost 2 hours !

This is 'INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY'. (Sad ! Does it look that way?)

This one requires a great fine tuning of the eye to decipher given the clarity of the image and the clarity of writing(which, in particular I believe is below par !).

Kindly forgive me for the mistakes in intricacies.

A M B I G R A M S

This is 'MIAMI' (a city in Florida).

Apologies for the minisculeness of the image on paper!

D I L E M M A

In the name of Moral Policing !

Do we call it the rapidly eroding liberal values or the rapidly eroding cultural values and tradition?

Is it a gradual recession of freedom?

‘Moral Policing’ seems to be on rise recently. Is it Extremism? Well, this seems quite tricky to answer !

A trip down memory lane, one can recollect incidents of Moral Policing. A few sample incidents would be the arrest of student artist Chandramohan for his nude paintings.

Next in line is the ‘Kushboo controversy’ for her frank and open statement on pre-marital sex. Suhasini was a buy one get one free for the political parties for supporting her co-artiste.

Next comes the ban imposed by Anna University on wearing jeans and t-shirts(targeted specifically towards the girls !) on grounds of improving studies.

A recent incident that is still fresh in mind is the attack on Bangladeshi author Taslima Nasrin on grounds of inducing a religious conflict and defaming Muslims. She was roughed up by the members of a political party for her writings.

And yes, how can anyone forget this. The Delhi police issuing a booklet titled ‘Security tips for North East students/visitors in Delhi’ where the police have sent out tips to the girls as to how they are supposed to dress.

Is it Atrocity or Cleansing the rapid rise of Western culture?

Do we need to parent our teenagers on how they should behave?

Why is Moral policing on rise today?

Every coin has two sides. Likewise there are a section of people who fancy Western Culture and there is another section, which is not able to digest this transition.

Morals are good but rioting in the name of policing is bad. The above-mentioned incidents make this crystal clear.

Why do censorship boards exist for movies? Why do Internet, news, books come under censorship?

We start wondering why all this cry about such incidents !

It’s a never-ending war between Creative Freedom and Moral Policing.

P O E T R Y

The Search



My heart is empty
In which worries are umpteen
I go in search for happiness
But what prevails is gloominess
What a pain
To see all my efforts go in vain
Is there an end?
To the endless
Or is there a beginning to the end
I don’t give up
Believing that life is a circle
And the beginning is from the end
I lay on my bed for a ray of hope
And there comes God
Showing me the plight
Of many who are in a much pathetic state
My heart is empty and lonely inside
As I wipe my tear I am trying to hide
I am not giving up
For I believe
That everything that happens is for good
I am brave
At least that’s how I portray !


Composed by Sivapriya Nagendran.

G O O D B O O K S

Adieu !

The Potter phenomenon has finally come to an end with the release of the ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows’.

What a heart-racing and a bone-chilling closure !

Every chapter ends in suspense with a lot of twists and turns garnished everywhere and that’s what makes it a very interesting book. Once started, it is very difficult to put it down. Such is it’s pace !

With each installment, Harry Potter has grown increasingly dark. The final book though somber and grim throughout is very well written.

All the loose ends are neatly tied up. The start of the book comes as a real blow to the readers. The book is fast paced and it felt as though the chewing gum was not chewed on for long. There is insistence on love and relationships that appeals to people of all ages.

All the missing pieces of the puzzle are neatly packed in. The narration is flawless and there is scanty space for humor.

As I close my book, there is a bright smile lit up on my face and I am glad she heard her readers’ plea.

Adieu to the boy who lived.

But he will continue to live etched in my heart for long. This is one series that is not to be forgotten.

‘Harry Potter’ is immortal.

Believe me, it’s not magic !

Hats off to J K Rowling !

Dated: July 26, 2007

G O O D B O O K S

Pottermania

‘Accio HP7’ and here comes my Harry Potter book 7 flying from the stores breaking open its hoods, landing on my hands. Hang on ! There is this store’s door that is restricting my book from liberation. And here goes, ‘Alohomora’ ! The doors break open and the book has finally reached it’s mistress.

Wow ! Imaginations running haywire. I might as well try writing a fantasy book ! Hold on friends, don’t panic ! I was just kidding ! Anyways, I’m sparing you from my ‘Cruciatus Curse’.

‘You are famous, Harry Potter’, informed Hagrid to Harry.

This prophetic remark in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ is in every way a fact. The phenomenal success of Harry Potter makes it the most sought after book of this century.

What is so special in these books that it keeps its readers hooked to it?

‘Imperio’, that’s the spell J K Rowling has used on her readers. She keeps her readers spellbound to her books. Her adeptness in storytelling enthralls.

The entire series is a wonderful jigsaw puzzle distributed throughout the 6 books. All the books carry the hallmark of Rowling’s imagination.

What a mind blowing story with all the essential elements of love, hatred, passion, intensity, faith, friendship and bravery neatly packed in ! Every book has its own twists and turns that make it even more interesting.

Humor has always been part and parcel of all the books. In the 5 th book, Hermione teases Ron saying that he has an emotional range of a tea-spoon.

There is humor even in the darkest of scenes like Harry’s and Ron’s encounter with Aragog in the 2 nd book where Ron provides the necessary relief.

What happens to Harry, his friends and Voldemort is still a secret that is yet to be unleashed. The 7 th book, ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows’ is due for release tomorrow worldwide. Harry’s fate will be decided then.

Muggles, get ready for the Grand Finale and the racy encounter between Harry and Voldemort.

And the billion dollar questions to be answered-
Is Harry going to survive?
Is Dumbledore alive?
Is Snape on Dumbledore’s side?
Is Harry the Chosen one?

And lots of others !

Let’s wait and see !

Beware Voldemort ! Don’t go looking for your own grave. If at all you get to meet Harry, so much the better for him, so much the worse for you !

‘Avada Kedavra’ Voldemort !

The End.

Dated : July 20 2007 - on the eve of the 7 th book's release.

A M B I G R A M S

This is an Ambigram.

Remember reading about it somewhere? Yes, in Dan Brown's 'Angels and Demons'.

An Ambigram is also called as 'Inversion'. It is a graphical figure that spells out a word not only in its form as presented, but also in another direction or orientation.

I am still at the novice level.Kindly forgive me for the mistakes in intricacies.

The above Ambigram reads 'Infosys'(that's my company !).

A M B I G R A M S

That is 'SYNERGY'.Does it look that way?

T H E B R O A D E R P E R S P E C T I V E

India Rising


Is India intensifying and escalating to the zenith?

That’s a million dollar question to be answered with a prudent analysis of the pros and cons of the topic.

The fact can’t be denied ! India’s rise is remarkable !

Remarkable? In what way?

Remarkable in the way that Indian economy has registered a highly impressive growth with a steep rise in GDP to 8.4 percent for the year 2005-2006.

Remarkable in the way that India is making itself known in the Global arena.

Great ! I am proud to be an Indian !

Well, let’s look at the darker side of the story.

India is a land of varied culture and heritage. In short, it is a land of ‘Unity in Diversity’. But what I see is a land that’s been internally fragmented into two - one that is well groomed and properly nurtured belongs to the rich and the other that is neglected and is a result of sheer apathy and corruption belongs to the poor.

A Yin-Yang may be !

What a pity !

Where are our Elected Representatives? Where are our apathetic and self-centered comrades? Where are we?

India houses the poorest of the poor and the worst corrupted of the corrupt. Yet, the fact can’t be denied. India is rising ! It’s rise has been one sided and biased.

You call a country to be fully developed only when there is development in all quarters. But that seems to be totally misunderstood.

An Argumentative Indian would squabble about this. He who looks at a half-empty glass of water as a half-filled one is truly optimistic.

Does the argument go well when it comes to Development? One might be complacent with the way India has been progressing in select few areas, but there are lots of other areas where we are lagging behind. Let us give it a thought !

Remember, the other side is in complete darkness.

An optimist invented an Aeroplane. A pessimist invented a parachute.

Well, I am an Argumentative Indian too because I squabble a lot about my other India !

Let us all take after Buddha(enlighten ourselves !) and begin our illumination process.

B E H I N D T H E C L O S E D D O O R S

The Crusade

Not much comes to limelight ! Women suffer in silence !

Women are groomed to believe that it is ultimately their fault !

Behind the closed doors of many homes, women are physically, mentally and worse sexually abused. After marriage it becomes even worse for many of them. Marriages are spoken of to be made in heaven, but for many it is the ultimate hell !

Those select few who are happy are lucky ! Not many are lucky !

Sufferings start right from their birth. Most of them are treated as house elves in their in-laws place. Imagine their plight if they are unemployed !

Well, does that mean employed women are less prone to ignominy. Let’s not forget about the Occupational hazards that drive them to hell !

Are Women the Weaker Sex? Well, I don’t want to comment on their physical strengths. There are lots of women who break barriers and come out with flying colors thereby inspiring their fellow people. Do they constitute women in entirety?

Recently, there was a big hype about the Tourism Minister of Pakistan hugging her training inspector after a successful paraglide. The act annoyed a hard-line cleric who wanted her resignation for her so called ‘Sinful Act’. Atrocious and Ridiculous to the core !

Are Women really denied of their freedom? Well, one would argue that women are not denied of their freedom citing the way how some women loiter around in skimpy costumes which many people call it a ‘Disgrace’ to their culture !

Well, let’s not think about these westernized women! Let’s try to address the problem of those who are suffering.

In rural India, the humiliations inflicted upon women are colossal. Many are forced into prostitution and the country which was responsible for their pathetic state looks down on them with contempt !

When women are compelled to leave their homes and their countries for one reason or the other, they lay open themselves to new forms of violence and exploitation !

When are we going to get justice ? Is it in our hands or with the society ? Even if we try to come out of the hood, will the society accept us ?

It’s very heartening to see ‘The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 ‘ come into effect.

Now, women can fight it legally and let’s see how far they succeed in the crusade.

T H E C O V E R S T O R Y

The Human Armageddon


Religious Differences are on the rise. The latest being the Gujjar violence.

Well, sometimes it makes me feel if it is alright to be a democratic country. Why ruining the state economy by burning buses, trains in the name of exercising the fundamental right of equality.

Oh no, I need to be still more specific! It is exercising the fundamental right of backwardness. The race for backwardness is in its peek after a year long agitation about reservations in the past year.

Well, it all boils down to ‘Darwin’s theory’ of the ‘Survival of the fittest’. That is what we are seeing in Rajasthan.

It all kicked off as an ST status grant to the Gujjars community in return for a massive electoral victory to Vasundhara Raje. Well, she is paying for it now !

And there is more to the drama. Now the Meenas enter and protest against the granting of ST status to the Gujjars in fear of losing their number of reservations.

I guess Mr. Arjun Singh has chosen to remain undercover , dormant and a silent spectator. He is the epicenter of this entire horror.

So it’s all a caste- war for reservations. The situation has worsened more ,now that the BJP has failed to keep up it’s promise for 4 years since it’s ruling inception in Rajasthan. They have dug their own grave.

The BJP will find it an uphill task to pass the bill with Congress at the centre . So it’s a complete mayhem in Rajasthan.

This brings us to the same old question of whether reservations are necessary ! Well, it’s the same old answer of considering the economic background instead of caste. But it has fallen in deaf ears !

The politicians don’t want to make it an economy based one in fear of losing their caste based votes.

It’s not really possible to scrap off the caste based and religious feelings out of people’s mind. But yes it is possible to scrap off the caste based reservations.

Religion is a passion and so is caste. Its more like how one is passionate towards his country. We don’t blame patriots to be extremists.

Religion and caste is deep-rooted in our society. When tried to nick it off, it will manifest and strike us back on our faces ! We should try to abet people to be friendly with their compatriots thereby ensuring a peaceful living in the society.

T H E R E V E L A T I O N

Special Economic Zones – Are they so special !


Wikipedia defines an SEZ to be a geographical region that has economic laws more liberal than the country’s typical economic laws.

Special Economic Zones – Are they so special ?

Well, they are special in the way that there is so much of mayhem around with unrest prevailing.

Are they really necessary ?

Well, one would argue of industrialization , urbanization and the GDP growth rate of India. What more ! India would become a super power ! But at what cost ? At the cost of it’s people , their property and worse their lives !

Nandigram is a perfect example to understand how special the SEZs are. An utter misuse of power by the State Government in the name of Urbanisation and Development. What an irony ! Unless you have an urban standard standard of living and can speak English, you can’t call yourself to be an Indian ! Nandigram is a total fiasco and the way the Government has handled the situation is in a very bad taste.

What is the use of Urbanization and Development when it is of no use to the common man !

Everybody seems to be talking of industrialization and the country’s entry into ‘The Elite Forum’. Nobody wants India’s growth to come to a stand still. Why can’t we act intelligently ! We can set an AGRICULTURAL SEZ and bring in a boon to all those farmers. If this process is undertaken on a large scale , Agriculture would be reborn from ashes in India.

Agriculture is the back bone of India. At one point India would become saturated with Industrialization and we will have to beg other countries for our food !

Imagine what would happen if the entire nation is declared an SEZ ? We would get back to our bondage days !

The feud between the Finance Minster P. Chidambaram and the Commerce Minster continues. While the Finance Minister opposes SEZs in fear of loss of revenue, the Commerce Minster is pushing more ! There is a conflict inside the Cabinet itself.

The Government has to resolve these problems and implement an intelligent solution that benefits common man. Well, that’s the place the Government seems to be failing in!

T H E O T H E R S I D E

'DON'T WASTE FOOD' CAMPAIGN

We are so blessed to lead a very normal life with all our basic needs fulfilled. But what about these children? There are scores and scores of people who die of Malnutrition every year.

This picture is very heart- breaking, It makes us feel how lucky we are.

Let us not waste food anymore ! They are many people who can't even fill up their stomach once a day.

Please write into this blog about how you have been enlightened and by what means. Let's start the campaign!