Supriya Sule : Feminism or Tokenism?

Surfing news channels for my daily dose of current affairs while sipping late morning tea, a lady answering audience questions on ABP news caught my attentuon. This was Supriya Sule, daughter of NCP suprimo Sharad Pawar, in a program titled 'Ghoshnapatra'. Political biases aside, I must say I was impressed with the grace with which she answered some serious and tough questions, may it be about Farmers' suicides in Maharshtra or Dynasty politics.

What caunght my attention was her answers to two differnt random questions, that strangely connected on one subject.

A gentleman in flowery words questioned her about Dynasty politics. Obviously, this was directed towards her own 'Pawar-house' (*hint, pun). To which she gave example of R.R.Patil (Home Minister Maharashtra) who has no political background. Also, she mentioned about Nationalist Congress Party's efforts in incresing women's participation in politics right from grass-root level and how they have reached out to Women in rural Maharashtra.

After few other questions, another gentleman pointed out that often her name is mentioned as a candidate for the post of Maharashtra's CM...will the people see her as Maharashtra's first female CM?

The answer to this question is always a shy denial, but the way she denied was what impressed me the most. "I am against any kind of tokenism. A female CM does not guarantee safety and security for women. Uttar Pradesh had a female CM (Miss Mayavati) for four terms and we all know about the situation there." - She denied and NOT!

She cleverly denied any sexist ethusiasms and left the question on CM's post unanswered. We all know what an unanswered question means.

Every now and then we see people demanding more posts be headed by females, since that would ensure soltion to women's issues. Is this not sexism...against women? Are we saying a person should be given a certain post and celebrated only becuse the pronoun associated is 'SHE'? In doing so are we not undermining that person's talents and capabilities? And most importantly, drawing from Supria Sule's words, aren't we trading Feminism for Tokenism, thereby opening new ways for women to be exploited? (Remember how Lalu Prasad Yadav used Rabri Devi as a remote control? Oh, those who'd call it misogynitic Male dominated Society's treatement of women, remember Manmohan Singh's case?)

There is a thin line between all these 'isms'... let us not forget this in our enthusiasms for whatever sex we favour.

Dusting off the dirt from the tradition of Rakhi

A Book that sits in shelf, inevitably gathers dust. When people stop making efforts to learn the real sense hidden in the Book and start interpreting the title on its cover by hear-say, inevitably a huge chunk of information never comes into picture. Also, you should expect a considerable amount of information to be false. Would you go by a review of any book by someone who hasn't read the book but writes the review on hearsay? Moreover, would you trust someone to tell you about the book, when that someone doesn't really want you to read the book? Whatever your answers are, I'd request you to relate this whole introduction to Hindu Traditions. Most of our traditions have changed with time, for various reasons, and now are under attack - Rakshabandhan is one of them.

Attack, you say? Yes. When a tradition with so many colourful interpretations and forms has been chopped down into a stub and then even criticised, I would say, it is under attack.

I try to recall what I learnt through my education in school about the festival and traditions of Rakshabandhan? All I remember is the story of Rajpoot Queen Karnavati who sent Rakhi to Humayun to protect Chittor from Bahadur Shah, the Sultan of Gujrat. Humayun though set off immediately to her rescue with his troops, arrived too late. Bahadur Shah had managed to sack Queen's fortress and Rajpoot Queen along with other 13,000 women had performed Jauhar. Though a lot of historians remain skeptical about the legend, I don't dare to doubt what the school text books dictate me to believe. Yet, this is a historical account; where is the religious origin of this festival?

Going by popular belief, Rakshabandhan is a festival that (exclusively) celebrates the bond between a brother and sister; but if so, why a similar festival called 'Bhai-dooj' is also celebrated? I was also taught about Queen Draupadi tying a piece of cloth torn from her attire on Krishna's finger to stop it from bleeding. But then Draupadi was Krishna's Sakhi/Friend...isnt this another shade of this festival? Trying to find the origin of this festival, I also read about stories about Yam and Yamuna, King Bali and Lakshmi and the story about Santoshi Maa, daughter of Ganapati. All these stories strengthen the belief that it is a festival that celebrates the love between a brother and sister... and I would be happy with that too; but Wait! Why would then Pundit jee on the same day tie Raksha-sutr on the wrist of their Yajman? Why do women tie Rakhi amongst themselves?

courtesy :
Religious Basis of Hindu Beliefs By Dr. Bhojraj Dwivedi

This time I tried to concentrate on the term 'Rakshabandhan' - literally, a thread tied that would protect; and that is when I came across Devi Shachi and Indra's story. Long story short, Devi Shachi (Indra's consort), tied raksha sootra on Indra's wrist before going for war, which made him fearless and due to the effect of the Raksha-sutra, he won the war. The interesting thing to note here is that Devi Shachi is Indra's consort - this adds a new dimension to the festival of Rakshabandhan.

Bhavishya Puran mentions :
सर्व रोगापशमनं सर्वाशुभविनाशनम् ।
सत्कृत्कृते नाब्दमेकं येनरक्षा कृता भवेत्॥
Raksha-sutr worn on Shravani Poornima is the destroyer of all diseases and inauspicious activities. By wearing it in a proper manner once a year a man remains protected for the whole year.

With all these different stories, What I could conclude is that the festival is basically about Rakshasutra tied by a wife to her husband, a Pundit to Yajman, a sister to her brother and even amongst women to bless the other with courage and invisibility so that She/He could in turn protect others. With the arrival of Mughal hordes, Rakshabandhan inspired men to fearlessly fight to defend their women. Though the other vibrant hues of this festival are still practiced, Bollywood with is obvious lack of knowledge of cultural values picked up and romanticised only the bond between Brother and sister. 

I have only attempted in this article to brush away the dust from a small volume of a mammoth set of books called Sanatan Dharma and I am sure I'm still missing a few aspects here. The best way to conclude is with a few words from a respected elder, who first pointed out the hidden truths - 

"The Indian mythology is an endless ocean. You will draw only as much water from it as the size of your bucket (mental and spiritual pre-requisites) and if your bucket is placed bottoms up, even if the whole ocean is poured over it, you won't get a single drop out of it."

a girl tying Rakshasutra to her Mother

The real culprits of Meerut Gang Rape

A 20-year-old Girl who taught Hindi and English in the Sarawa village madarsa in Kharkhauda area, In her complaint alleged that the village pradhan Nawabkhan, madarsa official Sannaullah and a few of their aides took her to the madarsa of Dautai village of Hapur district on July 30, a day after Eid. There she was gang-raped, compelled to convert and her name was also allegedly changed. They then took her to Muzaffarnagar where she was kept in confinement. 

Going by the rumors, there are more girls trapped and the atrocities don't stop at what you have read. (use your fertile imaginations) When the News Media has turned a blind eye on the whole issue, rumors are the only source of information. Obviously, this media blackout exists in order to maintain the sensitive 'communal harmony' of the state and Nation. The very same intellectuals that tirelessly have been making riotous noise on every platform for the protection of our secular ideals have suddenly disappeared. 

There is much more to this case than what meets the eye. I penetrate into deeper layers of the sequence and find the two Muslim Men NOT responsible for the act. I quote Mulayam Singh on this,"Boys make mistakes." Yes, you read this right. The fault lies somewhere else. Where? Let us use the art of logical deduction and find out the answer.

Lets start with the question, what if the venue was an Ashram? Oh wait, that sounds familiar. yes, Asaram! They ran media trial on him for months! Also, I recall Nirbhaya's case when one of the Rapists name, Raam Singh, was also dragged into a question, while one accused's name never came out. I'm sure, the readers can see what I'm pointing at. Just a few days back when a Shiv Sena MLA tried to force feed the substandard quality food to the one who served it to make his point, Media ran the news 24x7. I can site many such examples. Why selective outrage by media and intellectuals? Skewed Secularism? 

Now that we have established that the media is biased, let us try to find what caused it. 

Remember the violence witnessed by Mumbai, Patna and other cities by 'Peaceful' protesters who marched out chanting slogans in protest of violence against Rohingya Muslims in some other country...in Myanmar? Remember people out on roads holding placards about saving Gaza and shouting slogans against Israel? I'm sure you do. 

Now, remember People shouting slogans protesting against injustice on Kashmiri Pundits? Remember people on streets marching to support IPS officer Durga Shakti Nagpal? Remember people in other parts of India marching in support of Bodos and against illegal Bangladeshi immigrants? Remember outrage against Jove Jihad? No, you dont. Right? Why? because Hindus never went out and marched for themselves. Hindus 

have taken the lesson of Secularism and all its skewed interpretations too seriously and tried to avoid every issue that involves another community's members as perpetrators. Sure, they may march out with candles when they are sure that there is not any 'communal' angle to it. I am yet to see an angry Hindu mob that comes out marching on road shouting slogans, let alone harm public property for something that concerns exclusively their own kind. You might feel inclined to point out the Ayodhya issue, but those were the times when Yusuk Khan was known as Dilip Kumar and the difference in population of the Majority and 'the' minority was huge, since most migrated to Pakistan. 

Crux of the matter is if you want Media to pay heed, go violent. If you chose to use peaceful means like courts and expect the government to do everything for you, know that the media will turn a blind eye. 

So, in the end who do I find are the real culprits? Not the perpetrators, not the media, not even the government... the burden of responsibility for this situation is on every Hindu who in his enthusiasm to maintain a secular image turned a blind eye to issues relating to her/his community that cried for attention. 

This was rape, twice, on - 1. The Girl's body. 2. The victim's religion. 

The perpetrators knew well that they would go unpunished for both the offences. They knew well that the media will look the other way if caught. All this was possible because Hindus have burdened themselves with pseudo-Secular ideals... which in essence are communal...communal against their own community. 

There is a silence in the flock of News channels... faint cries of outraged few demand justice. If the justice is not served, take it down, we are heading towards a storm. 

Technology and Ashirwad

॥श्री॥ 

A morning walk on beach is good for body, mind and soul. while the walk exercises the body, the mind gets time to ponder over things that we often overlook in our day to day life. The wind on your face with the sound of the waves make for a perfect setting. It is often at such a time and place, that you may stumble upon a pearl of wisdom.

During my morning walk today, as I walked past by a few sandcastles, I overheard a small conversation between a young lad, maybe around 21 years old, and an old retired couple. The boy was trying hard to explain some deep-techie-Gyan in simple Hindi. It appeared that the old couple had some technical difficulty with their new Mobile phone and asked the young man for assistance. Though I hope their problem was solved, It is difficult to conclude the same. The Old man while leaving placed his palm over the Lad's head -
an age old Hindu way of giving your blessings to someone. As they parted, the 3 of them shared smiles.

Normally, I wouldn't have  even noticed this conversation, but watching them all smile as they walked away made me think - how technological difficulties can help us overcome the giant gap between generations, New and Old - how a difficulty can be changed into an opportunity. The couple in asking the Lad for assistance, let go off their ego. Ego left and smiles blossomed.

While the young can help the elderly with technology, let us not forget, the former is equally in need of  spiritual guidance and support from the latter. Unlike earlier times, the exchange now is two way and the need to share is greater than ever. The key is to lose the EGO. The opportunity is here, lets embrace it. Let us RECONNECT.

Baking bread on Pyre - ABP News

Monday 09/06/2014, Time: around 2 pm.

"how serious is this?"
"How serious? I've lost my friends. How serious do you think this is?"

An ABP News correspondent asked this question  to one of the survivors of the tragedy for a special News report on the unfortunate drowning of 24 students from Hyderabad in Beas River in Himanchal Pradesh. Allegedly, the students were clicking photographs when Hydro electric power project opened its flood gates sending tonnes of water downstream. Hence, it seems, the News channel chose the title 'Maut ki Photography'. (photography of death)...How Creative! 

 The News host in the studio then continued to question if this could have been prevented. 

Every time a news channel uses a tacky title such as this for a sensitive issue, I'm reminded of a roadside hooker that wears loud makeup and provocative dress to attract customers. On a second thought, this comparison is an insult to sex-workers. 

While the families of those 24 young boys and girls mourn their loss, these vultures with such tacky titles and over-emotional punches bake their bread on pyres.

This is not the first time that I've seen a News correspondent ask such a moronic and insensitive questions. The same has been used in many dark humor scenes in a number of movies - Someone dies in an accident or is killed, and a News reporter is seen with a mic pointed out to the survivor or a family member of the deceased asking, "How do you feel about this?".

These same insensitive bastards take moral high grounds while delivering punch lines at the end of news reports on sensitive issues like rapes. No one and absolutely no one is beyond their criticism, and rightly so. But the moment anyone points fingers at these vultures, they don't lose time in hitting back. One of the best examples of this is when the incompetent Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Akhilesh Yadav retaliated back at the media saying "Crime is only visible in UP to media." We all expect the Yadav Father and Son to take responsibility for the law and order situation in their state and though they are, morally, in no position to point a finger at others, what Akhilesh Yadav said wasn't totally incorrect. 

Last, when Nirbhaya suffered, Delhi won the title 'Rape capital of India' thanks to News Media's obsession with the same kind of news. Currently the title has been won over by Uttar Pradesh. During such times, in their greed for TRP, the same subject is played over and over again. They run their own MEDIA TRIAL on everyone, but when the court acquits the accused of the charges, not a single VISIBLE apology is aired. Will a news correspondent ever let her/his colleague cover any mishap that involves her/his own personal life? I doubt. 

ABP News proudly plays its tagline  - 
"ABP News, aapko rakhe aage" - "ABP News, always placing you ahead". 
Based on the kind of News reporting the channel does, this is how I see it : 

RAPEs in UP and Mulayam Singh's butterfly effect

On Tuesday 27th May 2014, two sisters, 11 and 14 year old, were gang raped and hung from tree in Badayun, Uttar Pradesh. Allegedly, a constable too was involved in this gruesome crime. The Police apathy adds salt to the wounds! Is this really Uttar Pradesh's Law and order situation? 

How every word uttered can have far reaching effects can be seen from this example. Pre Lok Sabha elections Mulayam Singh Yadav was reported saying "Boys make mistakes." and today News Channels are flashing this gruesome News ! It takes no special logic to come to conclusion that such audacity in perpetrators draws its strength from Mulayam Singh's words and such people who defend the criminals. 

Would you now again repeat your moronic words, Mr Mulayam Singh Yadav? I DARE YOU. 

you dare say "Boys make mistakes"?... wait and watch...

We Men, Brothers-Fathers-Husbands-Friends, and Women of India shall soon rectify all such mistakes...

 "Sab Pavitr kar denge!"

Narendra Modi - Sending out the right signals

We have been reading and listening to people saying "Parliament is Temple of Democracy." Finally, someone behaves like it really is! 

News channels have talked much about Modi-Advani rift, yet today we saw both Modi and Advani share a genuine hug. Advani has seen the party grow from just 2 seats to a massive majority of 282 seats for BJP alone, while the alliance, NDA, bags 336 seats! Even for a seasoned Politician like Advani, to see the sapling he and his fellow BJP leaders planted bloom into such a massive tree, must be overwhelmingly emotional. No doubt he has been spotted teary eyed a few times by reporters. The overwhelming victory seemed to get the best of Modi too, when he too got emotional during his speech, twice. Other BJP leaders too couldn't help joining in. Cynics may pass this as merely a publicity stunt, but those who understand human behavior and BJP-RSS history, their passion, and devotion for the Nation would'nt doubt the feelings. In any case, the Nation today follows every move made by Modi very closely and is full of hopes. What makes Modi so special? 

The answer is, besides his and BJP's hard work and marketing, Modi never fails to make positive and bold statements through his actions. He grabs every opportunity to send the right message. Here is a list of observations - 

Pre-election, Modi not only refrained but also refused to address and divide Indians as Muslims and Hindus, as Minority and Majority. This was the beginning of the end of Vote-bank Politics. 

While filing his nomination at Vadodra, Kiran Mahida (a Tea vendor) and Shubhanginiraje Gaekwad from the royal family of Vadodra were his two proposers. Both were carefully chosen to represent the humble and the great, a male and a female. 

Similarly, in Varanasi, the four proposers - Padmabhushan Pt. Channulal Mishra (Hindstani Classical Singer), Justice Giridhar Malviya (grandson of freedom fighter Madan Mohan Malviya), Virbhadra Nishad (Boatman) and Ashok Kumar (weaver)... all represent and symbolise different sections of the society. Before Modi, not many knew about even the role of a proposer in the process.

Post Elections, the 1st time he was spotted was while visiting his mother, hitting the right notes with people.

His 1st public address was at Vadodra, 2nd at Ahmedabad and 3rd at Varanasi after visiting Kashi-Vishwanath temple and performing Ganga aarati. The 3 cities symbolise his journey from State to National Politics. His speeches ensured a strong connect with every individual who voted for him, finding the same with the ones who didn't. Offering prayers, he made sure to put an end to 'pseudo-secular' vote bank appeasement politics. 

The most probable name for his successor as Gujrat CM is Anandiben patel - Women empowerment in action.

Pre and post elections  Modi talked about development...development for everyone - for the young and the old, for poor and rich, for men and women. His talks about technology made him popular among the younger generation. He respects India's customs and Traditions. He comes from a humble family. His relatives still live a humble life. All this makes it possible for him to connect emotionally and ideologically with people from different walks of life. How about the other politicians start taking notes?

Elections2014 - Not all those who lost are defeated

No battle is won without losing a few brave soldiers. Elections aren't very different when it comes to victory and defeat. With the outstanding victory BJP registered, there were few candidates who lost too. Out of many, the most shocking was the news about the defeat of Shahnawaz Hussain and Arun Jeitley. Smriti Irani even with a defeat, made her fans proud. It is important to analyse the reasons for the loss of these Stalwarts.
  

Shahnawaz Hussain lost from a narrow margin of 9,000 votes! now that takes away the pain from the sting a bit. no?

Arun Jaitley on the other hand became a victim of BJP and his own mistakes and his opponents' effective strategies. First the Navjot Singh Siddhu's issue and then when finally his candidature was confirmed, Congress decided to pull out one of its Big Guns - Ex-CM Capt Amrinder Singh. While Capt Amrinder Singh focused on local issues, Arun Jaitley focused on National issues, which ofcourse helped people to find a connect with Capt. Amrinder Singh and not Arun Jaitley. Capt. Amrinder Singh in addition raised the issue of Jaitley being an 'outsider'.

What impresses me about Jaitley is that neither during election campaigns nor in defeat, did Arun Jaitley ever abandon his Gentlemanly behavior. During the campaign in Amritsar, the two opponents were seen greeting each other warmly during a morning walk. After the results were declared he made sure to greet Capt. Amrinder Singh for his victory - something other Politicians need to learn from Jaitley. 

Last but not the least, Our very own 'India's Bahu' - Smriti Zubin Irani! what a brilliant Lady - Her Poise, Her Grace and her command over language! While AAP kept trying to make the battle in Amethi look like 'RaGa V/s  Kumar Vishwas', as soon as Smriti Irani entered the battle field, it was only Her against RaGa. Kumar Vishwas was no where in the scene, which was even reflected in the poll results when Kumar Vishwas lost his deposit! Kumar Vishwas had managed to secure only 25,527 votes - a humiliating defeat. The margin between Smriti Irani and RaGa was 1.08 Lakh - not a Huge gap, considering previous margins registered by the Gandhi scion. 

Not all those who have lost are defeated. So, along with the victorious, let us not forget the dedicated soldiers who gave a tough fight to their mighty opponents and who made sure that a huge part of the resources and efforts of the other party were concentrated in defeating them. In many ways, they served as a mighty shield that helped keep others safe. A huge Salute and a round of applause for them. 

Inferences drawn from 'Har-Har Modi' issue

As the election campaign for Narendra Modi moved forward with cries of 'Har Har Modi, Ghar Ghar Modi', a controversy too followed. Many devout Hindus and 'Secular' Congress leaders took objection on the use of this slogan, but it was Shankaracharya Shri Swaroopanand Saraswati of Jyotirpeeth who strongly condemned the use of 'Har Har Modi' slogan. Modi promptly requested his supporters to do the same. While the slogan has been MODIfied as 'Har dil Modi, Ghar ghar Modi', there are few interesting things to note about this whole incidence.

It was a pleasant surprise to see Congress for once talking about Hindu sentiments. Yes, we are talking about the same Congress that in its arrogance had even put a question mark on existence of Raam! Recently a Congress Leader, P. Shankar Rao, was in news for constructing a temple dedicated to Sonia Gandhi. Even in past, Sonia Gandhi has been portrayed as Goddess Durga in posters. 



The sycophants do not only exist in Congress, but in every party. A good example is the case of BJP's Hemant Bohra from Jodhpur, Rajasthan, who printed a poster depicting Vasundhra Raje as Goddess Annapoorna. 

Why limit ourselves to Politics?

Sport Personalities like 

Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni too were found in similar controversy. 

While Hindu Saints have been demanding a ban on Cow slaughter, India becomes leader in Beef exports. No heed was payed to their cries when they marched to Delhi to save river Yamuna. Swami Nigamanand died after fasting for 73 days to save holy river Ganga, but no one seemed to care. I have immense respect for Shankaracharya Shri Swaroopanand Saraswati as religious scholar, and eagerly want to know his views on all the above mentioned incidences. I would love to know why he only chose to speak on 'Har Har Modi', and not on any other issue? But I doubt, these questions will ever be answered. 

In any case, whats interesting is that Modi supporters stopped using the slogan after Modi's request, and not because of Shankaracharya's criticism. Usually labelled 'Communal', Hindu masses rejected a Religious Head's views for a leader who talks about development. I try to compare this with Shahi Imam's recent visit to Sonia Gandhi and his endorsement of Mamata Banerjee. Azam Khan addresses a conference of Madrassa managers and Principals to secure his party's Muslim vote bank. This only hints that these religious heads hold a good influence over a huge Muslim population. what inference do I draw from this?  

I'm sure any sane mind will agree with me when I say Religion should not be allowed to control politics of a Nation. While the Majority seems to have learnt this lesson, the Minority yet seems to be in need of time to accept this fact. 

In light of these facts, let us now argue the definition of 'Communalism'. 

Using Navratri as an opportunity for personal development

We all know Navratri is a 9 day long festival that celebrates different manifestations of the Divine femininity. But, besides its spiritual significance, these auspicious  9 days can also be used for personal development. How? Read on, to find out. 

Let us begin with knowing a little about Navratri. There are 4 Navratri in a year, 2 that we know of, are also called 'Pratyaksh'(प्रत्यक्ष) Navratri, while the other 2 are called 'Gupt' (गुप्त=secret) Navratri, Marked in blue in the figure below.

*correction, VASANT Navratri and not 'Vasat'.

It, thus can be seen that the 4 Navratri occur at regular intervals of 3 months, dividing a year into 4 quarters. These 4 Navratri can be considered as 'Check-points'. Here's how to use these 'check points' -  

Making Resolutions : We all make New-year resolutions every 1st January, most of which don't last long, and only the most strongly followed ones survive for a month or two. Instead of feeling disheartened by the fate of these resolutions, how about giving ourselves more chances to make resolutions and then trying our best to follow them through? How about taking each Navratri as an opportunity for jotting down a list of new habits you might want to inculcate and the ones that you want to quit, of goals that you want to achieve and places you want to go.

Its is interesting to note that the gupt Navratri of Paush/Magh falls around New year. So, New year resolutions are already in place. Right? Also, Vasant Navratri (Also known as Chaitri Navratri) that starts with the Hindu New year celebrations as Ugadi or Gudi Padwa, almost coincides with Financial New year. How about doing your taxes and taking care of your investments before this Navratri? 

The 4 Navratri can be used as check points that are spread 3 months apart, to list Goals, weigh options, review progress, make necessary changes, device new strategies and put our priorities in order, thus improving our chances of Success.

Health : Most Hindus fast during the two Pratyaksh Navratri. Some fast for all 9 days, some just on the 1st and the last day and some don't at all. There is no compulsion, as such. Also, it should be noted that 'fasting' is NOT starving. In fact, fasting helps us to control and reform our eating habits and presents an excellent opportunity to detoxify our body. Fasting when coupled with Lemon therapy and Water Therapy, in addition to detoxification, can do wonders for those who wish to shed a few extra pounds. Also, since every Navratri occurs at the onset of a new season, fasting during this time can help one's body to adjust to the seasonal changes.

In addition to its strictly physical effects, fasting can also serve as a powerful workout for one's will power. Resisting body's cravings for food and taste, conditions mind's control over body. Aren't most of the disorders that the modern generation faces, an outcome of unrestrained gratification of the senses? 

Another advantage that I found, from personal experience, is that when while fasting one takes simple meals consisting of fruits and dairy products, enough for a healthy body, it leaves one with extra time for other things. It may not seem much while you read about it, but I'm sure will agree with experience. 

Let us try and begin to see beyond the usual portrayal of India's rich cultural heritage and find the hidden wisdom of our forefathers in our customs, traditions and rituals. 

How the previous generation of Hindus messed up the current ones.

No this is not just about religion, but cultural heritage and Pride. Those who lack patience may skip the first two paragraphs.

While growing up, I was fascinated with the stories of Hindu gods and goddesses. Most of them were narrated by my grand parents to me at night. They were like short fairy tales, with a moral. Also, had B.R. Chopra not made Mahabharat and Ramanand Sagar, Ramayan, my knowledge about these epics would have been very limited. The Shiv Lingam, for me, was a symbol of Mahadev, but I had no clue about the reasons or story behind it. No elder could give me a satisfactory explanation about it. The term 'Hindu Mythology' pushed me to believe that all the stories that I heard and read were only myths, designed to give us moral lessons. Learning Darvin's theory of Evolution, only strengthened this view. A heavy load of textbooks during school and college made it difficult to find time for reading heavy philosophy of Vedas and Upnishads. Numerous Movies and News about Dhongi-Babas pushed me further away from my own religion. The cast discrimination pushed me further away. My doubts and questions seldom found satisfactory answers by elders; for they never questioned their elders out of respect. At some point, religion for me, became an unscientific and irrational belief. And so, I subscribed to Atheism. I am sure, many will relate to this. 

I remained an Atheist for quite sometime, but the questions still haunted me. By now, reading 'Liberal' writers, I found out that Shiv Lingam was a Phallic symbol. Still not convinced, in search of answers, I started reading and reflecting. It was at this very juncture, that I found the beauty of the religion that I was born with. Even as a non-believer, the philosophy of Vedas and Upnishads had an appeal. Soon new discoveries started linking myths with reality. And so, the circle of belief, for me, was complete; my belief was back, only stronger. I found the real meaning of Shiva Lingam and its story; It is a symbol representing infinite pillar of light that was created by Mahadev.

So, why do I blame the previous generations? 
Because they did not question their elders. If they did, they could have been able to answer the questions of the younger ones. The ones that were fascinated by the modern scientific advancements, abandoned their rich Ancient wisdom. In their enthusiasm for modern western education, they left behind Hindu history as myths.  The devout ones gave up rational explanations and subscribed to blind faith and followed rituals without even trying to find the real meanings behind them. Religion for them was synonymous with rituals. The upstarts in their attempts to sound modern and liberal, went on to criticise scriptures without even reading and understanding them. In their quest for a good salary, they forgot to feed their minds. Their dismissal turned into our loss, their assertions became our burdens. The previous generations, in general, were divided into two extremes - The blind believers and the Liberal atheists; And both encouraged modern education, neglecting Hindu Science, philosophy and history. They held on to the pride of their casts but gave up their duties dictated by the caste system. (no, I'm not advocating caste system. all I'm saying is why just drop the duties and keep the caste pride? abandon both!)

The previous generations created a void, which now is being exploited by missionaries and mullahs to convert young Hindus. Cinema too never misses a chance to capitalise on such vulnerability. The previous generation was blessed with Movies like 'Guide', while we are misguided by the likes of 'Oh my God'. While the common Hindu youth is still confused with numerous versions of 'mythological' stories, opportunists like Amish Tripathi, an atheist, pens down novels like 'Immortals of Meluha' using Shiva and other gods for characters in his second rate fictional story with a language that lacks luster. The Leftists and Liberals, in their arrogance, do not care for this rich heritage and not only support likes of Wendy Doniger in the name of 'freedom of speech' but also try to twist the facts. Painters like M. F. Hussain lack balls to draw nudes relating to his own religion, yet find fame with disturbing paintings of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. 

Textbooks in schools sing praises of Gandhis and Nehrus, but mention very little about Maharana Pratap, Shivaji and Hemchandra Vikramaditya. Bappa Raval doesnt find even a small mention. We are taught Algebra, Pythagora's theorem, Value of Pi etc. and told that their discovery has foreign roots. The reality is, Indians knew it all when the west was still dwelling in caves.The previous generation quietly allowed the Government to rob us of our Hindu Pride. 

Had it not been for the likes of Sri Sri Ravishankar, Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi, Swami Vivekanand, ISKCON, Gayatri Parivar and Arya Samaj, the Hindu society would have either fallen back into dark ages and its superstitions or transformed into radical Atheists. Had it not been for westerners like Allen Watts, we would have only seen a crooked western view of our culture and philosophy.

Though the generation before ours dismissed the existance of Raam-Setu, Dwarika (Krishna's city) and River Saraswati, the generation before them had a firm belief on these matters, but had no proof. Our generation though has proof, but is confused. Its like we have pieces of a jigsaw puzzle but have no idea how the original picture was, to begin with.

Cut the branches, yet the tree will survive. Sever its roots, soon it will die. 
will our generation be able to get back to our roots? 
Who knows. Theres always hope. 

Veena Malik trends on twitter

Are you shocked to read Veena Malik's Tweet "India sucks"? frankly, I am not. Though I would have preferred her say, "Indians suck", but then again, with the kind of intelligence she displayed while speaking about 26th January in a small interview a while back, we should keep our expectations to minimum. 

Why did she say so? Looking at her TL, it was evident that news about molestation of a German student had upset her. Every such case is indeed upsetting! But then if in this case, 'India Sucks', what about her own motherland, Pakistan?

Indians atleast have learnt to be vocal about this problem and have even come out on streets demanding justice and safety for women. For a Nation that ranks number 1 in internet porn searches, worldwide, It wasn't difficult to find articles about Pakistan's Rape problem. The hypocrisy is, Pakistan also ranks number 1 in homophobia and tops gay-porn searches at the same time! Ill refrain myself from comparing the two Nations in their treatment of Rape cases, but a sensible reader can guess the outcome. Curious readers may read this article : Pakistan also has a rape problem

Having said all this, the big question is, will Veena Malik dare to use the same word for Pakistan that she used with India? I doubt, and yet I agree with her if she means 'Indians suck'.

Why do we Indians suck?
We welcome Pakistani artists like Veena malik and watch them on Big and small screens. The career that had no future back home suddenly finds name, fame & success...and in return, this is what we get!

Yes we Indians suck, for the simple reason that we welcome ungrateful fucks like Veena Malik and give them a celebrity status!

Let us hang Modi

I am not loyal to any party but to reason, and for that reason my loyalties keep shifting, leaving only one thing for certain - show me injustice and I shall join any and every protest against it. And hence today I try to distance myself from Modi!

But, before we go ahead and discuss more about Modi, here is a small exercise for the readers. Irrespective of our Faith and ideology, we all have atleast one person that we love the most. Right? I want you to think of that person. Done? 

now scroll down



Have you really thought of THE person?




No cheating please...




is it your Father?




or your Mother?




Or one of your Grand Parents?




Or your spouse/Boyfriend/Girlfriend?




or your Kids?




Or simply a special friend?




Now Imagine that, 
you see that person off at train station one day and the next day you see on news that the train that person was on was burnt. You frantically try to connect with that person but you fail. You try every means possible only to find that that person was one of the victims of the arson and that He/She too was burnt alive, locked inside the train coach. 

I'm sure you'd want to  harm me for making you to go through this mental torture. My apologies, but if just the thought of this whole incidence fills one with anguish and rage, what must the grief be of those who lost their loved ones in Sabarmati express? 

Let us, to this pain add the memory of the exodus and genocide of Kashmiri Pundits and the fact that it was totally ignored as if it never happened and the fear that it may again happen to any other state of India, to a place where you and your family resides. 

Post Godhra riots, the impression is that only Muslims lost their loved ones and that the number was in thousands. Here is the truth - 790 muslims and 254 Hindus died in the riots. Now lets do the Maths - 
790 + (254+58) = 1102 (58 victims of Sabarmati Express)
therefore, 
28.31 % Hindu and 71.69% Muslim victims. 

My heart breaks to even imagine how it would have felt to go through such perilous times, for every Muslim, for every Hindu...for every Human being!
But, no matter how gross it was to do the math of dead bodies, it helps us see how easily the 28% were totally ignored and forgotten. It shows us the bitter truth about the Secularism of our Media and elite liberals that choose to ignore the tears of the Majority. 

Post 2002 there has not been a single case of riots in Gujrat. Had there been one, the media would have hounded Modi. Some would say that this peace only exists due to fear. To every reader, regardless of Her/His faith/religion/background, I ask, will you prefer to lose you loved ones and your property destroyed or peace, even if it exists due to fear? I would, without hesitation, chose peace. 

Still, lets hang Modi. 
but for what reason? For riots or for not being able to stop the riots?
Clearly, the trigger for the riots was Sabarmati Express. Hence lets hang him for not being able to stop the riots. Right?
Let us ignore Supreme Court's verdict. Who cares what the apex court of our Nation says. We shall stick to what media, Politicians and elite leftists and liberals wants us to believe.

But, in this clip, in front of his bitter rivals, Digvijay Singh and Fahrooq Abdulah, he reveals when the riots broke out, the Gujrat govt. sent fax to the neighboring states Chattisgarh, Maharshatra and Madhya Pradesh to send help for riot control. The request was denied. Wouldnt his arguments be thrashed by these two if they could? Even with the limited Police force, the riots were brought under control in 3 days. Assam riots continued for 3 months and the '84 riots in 3 days claimed over 8000 lives. Do I need to give statistics for genocide of Kashimiri Pundits? Shouldn't we demand the same for the culprits in these cases too? or is it that Hindus and Sikhs are better off dead?


I have heard some conspiracy theorists saying that the Sabarmati Express incident was pre-planned by BJP-RSS. Now, thats a new angle. Here is another one - what if it really was pre-planned and those that planned it made it look like it was pre-planned by the 'Saffron terrorists'? If we were to stick to a conspiracy theory, which one should we stick to? Obviously, the one that has been repeated over and over again. After all, whatever is repeated several times, ultimately becomes the truth. No? 

Let us overlook the praises for Modi by Maulana Ghulam Vastanvi, at the cost of his post of Deoband's rector and Maulana Mahmood Madani, general secretary of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind. These Maulanas obviously know shit about Godhra as compared to Arundhati Roy. Right?

Let us forsake all reasons and believe what we are made to believe, let us cease to think and let our religious beliefs take over our logic. Let us hang Modi! For if we dont, chances are, there wont be any riots anymore in the country and hence no other political party will get any chance to fan religious and communal sentiments of the downtrodden 'Aam Juntaa' for their petty gains. 

Manish Tewari and Congress' silent revolution

After election commission's declaration of dates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, Just a few moments ago, I saw Congress spokesperson Manish Tewari giving his statement in Hindi saying -

"The 2014 elections are going to be fought between two ideologies. On one hand there is a party that has given sacrifices for the nation and its freedom, while on the other hand there is this party with a very narrow psyche and that believes in dividing people."...he further added,"Congress has brought a silent revolution in the country."

With that statement, I know, he was referring to Maun-Mohan Singh; And I couldnt agree more on this with Mr. Tewari. But how does the Congress party become a party that gave sacrifices for the nation? Was he talking about Nehru-Gandhi family's assassinated members? or was he referring to India's freedom struggle? In either scenarios, the claim is ridiculous. 

Did Congress, as Manish Tewari claims, sacrificed for India's freedom struggle? No! The Indian National Congress that fought for India's freedom was led by Mahatma Gandhi, and it was Mahatma Gandhi himself who wanted this party to be dissolved after India won its freedom. Also, to say India won its freedom only due to the efforts of INC will be a gross mistake, neglecting innumerable sacrifices of the brave revolutionaries and those Martyrs that did not agree with congress' ideology.

If Manish Tewari was referring to assassinations of Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi...firstly, he is reiteration what Rahul Gandhi has been saying all along. Though I sympathise with him, their 'sacrifices' do not give their progeny the right to rule the nation. Especially, when the aspirant has no administrative experience and an IQ that has been laughed upon. Also, when did the Nehru-Gandhi family become the Party? My bad. We are talking about Congress here, which obviously is run by 'the family'. Secondly, let me remind the readers, it was the same Indira Gandhi that imposed emergency on the nation. She was only a step away from becoming a Dictator! (and by saying that, I'm not trying to justify her assassination.) Also, it does not suit to absolve Rajiv Gandhi of '84 anti-Sikh riots that claimed over 8,000 lives, while they keep hounding Narendra Modi for 2002 that were promptly controlled in 3 days time, but sadly with a loss of 1,044 lives (790 muslims and 254 Hindus). I hate to recall Rajiv Gandhi's famous words, "When a giant tree falls, the Earth shakes."

At best, Mr. Manish Tewari, the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections can be described as Dynasty Vs Development. Everything else is only votebank politics. 

An open letter on Aamir Khan's 'Fractured' reasoning

While the prices of everyday commodities have sky-rocketed and the economic growth of the nation itself is 'Fractured', Aamir Khan favors a fractured verdict in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. In his words,

"It's not fair to give mandate to single political party in the upcoming polls."

Then, what is fare? letting people starve due to increasing inflation? People dying in bomb blasts and other terrorist activities? Deserving candidates being denied college seats due to quota system and adding more seats and categories based on religion into this system? Our soldiers being beheaded and their bodies being mutilated? Locals being driven out from their own homes by the Bangladeshi refugees in Assam? or ethnic cleansing of Kashmiri Pundits? Attempts to pass a communal law such as 'Anti-Communal violence bill' in the name of secularism? Women being openly molested in streets in wide daylight? Neighboring countries trying to snatch our lands? dividing the Nation in the name of religion, region and casts? Unemployment? Corruption or screwing with taxpayer's hard earned money on unnecessary subsidies and scams?

A well informed citizen of this Nation knows well that whenever people's verdict helped the Third front to come into power, the Government has never been able to take tough decisions.  every decision is delayed, every interest of the Nation is compromised for regional gains of the constituent parties. Even in the current scenario, its one coalition against the other - UPA against NDA. So, in reality, there is no 'One Party' thats going to contest elections. This is a time when the Nation needs a stable government and strong leadership that can lead the Nation out from the current crisis and address issues that concern us all. Sadly, none of these requirements can be met by the Third front. 

Why was Aamir Khan mum till now? What makes him voice his opinion just a few months before Nation goes for elections? Going by his past publicity stunts, its evident that Amir Khan only speaks now, to promote his show - 'Satyamev Jayate'.

Mr Aamir Khan,
'Humko hae desh ki fikar' - We care for the Nation...Seriously? you want us to believe that? I would have believed your intentions and these words had you not charged a hefty sum for doing this show or atleast donated a good chunk of your own personal earnings for issues that you raise in your show. Sharing stage with victims and heroes and shedding crocodile tears doesn't count for shit! You are a brilliant actor and I'm a fan of your acting skills; and exactly for that reason, everytime you cried on the show, it was difficult to believe that it was real. I have seen you in news, cutting people's hair and your other publicity stunts to get audience for your movies. Its not uncommon for actors these days to use people's emotions and issues to promote their movies. But there is a line that must not be crossed - Do not try to bake your bread on pyres. Thats an art best left to News media and dirty Politicians. You Sir, have crossed this line. I would have respected your freedom of expression had this comment of yours come not at such an opportune moment for the promotion of your show. You have successfully caught eyeballs for your show with this gimmick, but lost respect in the eyes of one your fans. I'm sure, compared to crores gained from the show, this isnt a loss at all. Even if I were to believe that your intentions were true, Mr. Aamir Khan, your view, at best, is myopic. 

Fuck you and fuck your show.
Sincerely 
Up yours!  

NB: those who would say "atleast he is doing something", please find out how much he earns for every episode and then say the same.

Rioting over Riots

Modi responsible for 2002 Gujrat riots.
- Rahul Gandhi, Congress.

I urge SIT probe for 1984 riots.
- Arvind Kejriwal, AAP.
(And retweets a tweet labeling Narendra Modi a 'Murderer', even after clean chit from SIT)

Kejriwal betrayed Muslims, backtracked on his promise of SIT on Batla House encounter.
- Asif Muhammad, MLA, Congress.

Muzaffarnagar riots were political.
- Ajit Singh, Chief, Rashtriya Lok Dal.

It all started with Rahul Gandhi's interview, where he blamed Modi for Gujrat riots of 2002; and one after the other they started to riot over past riots in the country and pointing fingers at each other.  The above mentioned personalities weren't the only ones to participate in the chicanery, spewing venom against the other parties and trying to establish themselves as the protector of the minorities. Those who understand politics, would know that more of such drama can be expected in coming days, as we move closer to the Loksabha Elections 2014. 

Meanwhile, srrounded with all the cacophony of the Crows (politicians) and Vultures (Media), it was interesting to note that no one bothered to make even a small mention of the Ethnic cleansing of Kashmiri Pundits from their homeland, Kashmir, in 1990, nor the recent Assam (Kokrajhar) riots. It was like they never happened; and I so wish that they never had! But since they did, why the silence? Is it because, these were the incidences that affected the people belonging to the Majority of the Nation? Do lives of Hindus don't matter or is it that since they exist in majority, a loss of few lives can be considered negligible? These are uncomfortable questions, but someone has to ask them. They must be answered.

Its sad and unfortunate to even compare human suffering, and that is exactly my point. If the sufferings of the minorities find cries for justice, why are the majority's tears ignored? That is when Mancur Olson's The logic of Collective action answers the question - 

"In Democracy, a well organised minority is Majority."

While setting aside the differences between the different sects and casts and subcasts, the Minorities fight together for their issues, the majority continues to be divided not only into different casts and subcasts but also through language and region. The people comprising the majority in India have clearly not learnt the most obvious lesson from their History; and unless they do, they are doomed to go through it all again.