Some months ago, i had said that the Internet is nearly impossible to patrol. Now, the scenario has come back in the form of a hate community on the popular social site Orkut. The reaction to this was angry, and when i went to check the comunity today, it was not to be found anywhere. It is perhaps too premature to determine wether Cyberspace patrolling has managed to filter Propoganda. But, people who know the nuances of the Internet might find different platforms to express their hate for a ideology, Party or person.
This case related to the creation of a community titled "I hate Bal Thackeray". It was formed by individuals who hated him as a person, as well as the party which he created. It also spoke against the ideologies which is stood for. Following the outcry on discovery by the party members, the Cyber cell initiated action quickly and deleted the community. Now, wether the persons involved did this purposefully or with serious intent is yet to be determined.
Two points are raised here. One, Did the Shiv Sena react angrily to this because it perhaps spoke the truth? Second, what is the probability of Hundreds of such sites filtering across the vast network of Cyberspace? Two other points have been highlighted in this case. The Internet will consolidate itself as the biggest sources of Propoganda, and that security against Propoganda is next to impossible.
If an unbiased opinion of the Common Man is sought out, he will echo the same felings that the community expressed against the Shiv Sena. The Sena's ideology of division among communal lines has tested the social fabric of Mumbai. The open acts of aggression demonstrated by the Sena have indeed led to normal life being disturbed. About 8 years ago, a World Class Hospital was destroyed by the Sena as it could not save their local leader. The same party brought normal life to a halt when some statues of their party as well of their supreme leader were defaced. To add to this, the continued hate campaign against muslims furthur keep Mumbai on a boiling point.
The chances of this occuring again is quiet high. Some community that hates this part will again crop up, so eliminating Propoganda against them might be very difficult. How ironic this situation is. The perpetrators of Hate Propoganda are now in the recieving end of this. I guess now they must be feeling that the world is round and that what goes around must come around.
I would like to add, that if Citizens expressed their opinion through Public forums and voice their concerns, then it will be far more effective. By creating communities on the Web, the people risk falling into short-sightedness. Maybe, the back door bad mouthing of the Sena has irked them this time. If Citizens can come out into the open and speak out against the Sena, then it will be better.
This is perhaps an indirect way also of the people telling the Sena to change for the better. For too long, they have spread Hate Propoganda in the city. For far too long, they have disrupted normal life for political mileage. Of course, the Sena also has to be credited with a lot of Political activism, because by their activism, they highlight the flaws of the system. The Shiv Sena might represent a front in changing the rigidity of the system, but, if it is at the price of Normal life and social tranquility, then this hate campaign against them will only increase.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Several things on my mind
When my mind is muddled, I can’t think of the facts that surround me. It is at this time that I chose to write a poem. Today is one such day, and I just want to outline of the blankness and complications that is happening inside my head.
Several things are on my mind,
but I can't make sense of them.
The mind seems muddled and bored,
but days like this are ever so common
How should I make it different?
Several things are on my mind.
I dream of going out, and having fun,
but all my friends are busy and occupied,
I look out for other opportunities,
but till then I have to wait.
The Weather is Hot, and I am at home.
Nobody wants to go anywhere in the heat,
but the mind insists that we go,
Having fun and frolic instead of laziness,
but it becomes so difficult.
My mind wanders around, for it
Thirsts of doing something new.
I watch and hear nothing but the same old things,
so my mind tends to stagnate.
If I am bored, I cannot help myself.
I am doing nothing new,
so I am stagnating away.
Several things are on my mind,
but my mind doesn’t want to do anything,
it just wants to idle away.
Ideas frolic and dance around my mind,
but I cannot put them rightly.
The mind muddles up your thinking,
your heart doesn’t beat to do anything,
and then you realize that life is nothing.
I have a mind that has ideas and facts,
but I do not have the heart to do anything.
Why must individuals be caught up in this?
Cannot we on our own do something?
Perhaps, this is the other side of human life.
Life can be cheerful, pleasant, innovative, happy,
If we put our mind and soul in it.
Take away mind and soul, and life is nothing.
Several things are on my mind,
but my soul is quiet inactive.
Several things are on my mind,
but I can't make sense of them.
The mind seems muddled and bored,
but days like this are ever so common
How should I make it different?
Several things are on my mind.
I dream of going out, and having fun,
but all my friends are busy and occupied,
I look out for other opportunities,
but till then I have to wait.
The Weather is Hot, and I am at home.
Nobody wants to go anywhere in the heat,
but the mind insists that we go,
Having fun and frolic instead of laziness,
but it becomes so difficult.
My mind wanders around, for it
Thirsts of doing something new.
I watch and hear nothing but the same old things,
so my mind tends to stagnate.
If I am bored, I cannot help myself.
I am doing nothing new,
so I am stagnating away.
Several things are on my mind,
but my mind doesn’t want to do anything,
it just wants to idle away.
Ideas frolic and dance around my mind,
but I cannot put them rightly.
The mind muddles up your thinking,
your heart doesn’t beat to do anything,
and then you realize that life is nothing.
I have a mind that has ideas and facts,
but I do not have the heart to do anything.
Why must individuals be caught up in this?
Cannot we on our own do something?
Perhaps, this is the other side of human life.
Life can be cheerful, pleasant, innovative, happy,
If we put our mind and soul in it.
Take away mind and soul, and life is nothing.
Several things are on my mind,
but my soul is quiet inactive.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Fundamentalism and the future
Perhaps, this is one aspect which is debated quiet a lot. The factor of Fundamentalism is finding prominence nowadays. From the time September 11th took place, the world is defined by this aspect. It is the rise in various other religions that is alarming.
I have always said that Organized religion is a great danger to the world. It is because of this aspect that i consider it the threat that it is. Fundamentalism tends to involve protecting the purity of the religion, as well as highlighting the superiority of one over the other. But, sometimes, Fundamentalism can try and get down to the roots of that religion.
Since Religion is rooted in Historical developments, and because History is muddled in so many ways, Religion has always remained Complex. The very expresion of it in large numbers will be problematic. When Religion tends to assert its purity, it often leads to violence, because the formation of every religion has involved Blood. The results are seen in the violence that is enveloping Islamic Terrorism, and the degeneration of the other religions is being witnessed.
The future of Fundamentalism is unfortunately not short. In this age of religious irrationality, fundamentalism is bound to exist for a very long period of time. Perhaps, it is here that the Conscience of the individual needs reasoning. It is about time people lok deep into their soul to counter Fundamentalism, because Fundamentalism can be curbed only by reasoning the human mind.
I have always said that Organized religion is a great danger to the world. It is because of this aspect that i consider it the threat that it is. Fundamentalism tends to involve protecting the purity of the religion, as well as highlighting the superiority of one over the other. But, sometimes, Fundamentalism can try and get down to the roots of that religion.
Since Religion is rooted in Historical developments, and because History is muddled in so many ways, Religion has always remained Complex. The very expresion of it in large numbers will be problematic. When Religion tends to assert its purity, it often leads to violence, because the formation of every religion has involved Blood. The results are seen in the violence that is enveloping Islamic Terrorism, and the degeneration of the other religions is being witnessed.
The future of Fundamentalism is unfortunately not short. In this age of religious irrationality, fundamentalism is bound to exist for a very long period of time. Perhaps, it is here that the Conscience of the individual needs reasoning. It is about time people lok deep into their soul to counter Fundamentalism, because Fundamentalism can be curbed only by reasoning the human mind.
Is this Right or Wrong?
This is not a question to be posed holistically. Certain instances have been encountered where in the lines of right and wrong are blurred. These instances have a bearing in the socio-economics of a state, or other instances in life where man has arrived at the Crossroads.
For months on end, i have criticized the Media coverage of some issues like Fashion, Celebrity weddings and all the Page 3 glamour that happens among the elites of society. But, a recent article by a prominent Journalist has said that this is all fine in this globalized world. All these things are part of the broader socio-economic functioning, and hence accepted. Today, Technological advancements have ensured that Negative events and positive events share equal amount of Air-time on Television and the Internet.
It is here where the lines are blurred. The blurring comes as to what is Media's priority? When there are more pressing issues plaguing people, is it acceptable for the Media to portray all the glitz and the Jazz that is out of the Common Man's reach? Of course, maybe, the Media has realized and grasped upon this aspect that ordinary people are interested in Celebrities. The consumerist and materialistic culture has established itself in Urban India, and one gets a feeling, that under the guise of Acceptability, even Trivial events can get serious coverage.
It is perhaps the People who have conditioned themselves that all glitzy events are important. Some people in their mid-40's argue that the Media during the Old socialist times of the 70's and 80's were just redundant. The media at that time were plagued by their short-sightedness. Today, if one compares the changes that have taken place, many argue that this what it should have been. Many of this generation welcome the changes.
Now, the Media is focusing on all aspects, ranging from the serious to the downright trivial. Critics of the Media argue that whatever time has been alloted to these trivial events can be substituted by little-known serious events that can affect people's life. Are the Critics right or wrong? Have they considered the Boredom aspect of Individuals? It is very hard to determine all that.
Unfortunately, the theme in today's world is that, Money and the Profit Motive are the defining points around which they function. The generation of this time have dismissed that time in the past as irrelevant and incompetent. Today, Anything is Cool and acceptable. But, I often wonder wether this is Blind Acceptance.
After writing this, i will still not have an idea wether all this is right and wrong. I guess, it is the job of the Critique to Criticize, and perhaps not read too much into their criticisms. Maybe, it is a bit too Idealistic for News channels to be all the time serious, and highlighting only serious aspects. Maybe, once in a while, the human mind tends to drift away into Triviality. Perhaps, the Media of this time is more appealing, but i wonder as to wether this appeal might be overshadowed by Apathy.
The Media of the Old, devoid of all technologies, encouraged Citizen Participation and hence, the old generation was vigilant. The New Media, encourages an equal bit of seriousness and Triviality. So, i am wondering wether this generation is Apathic or not. The new media has to shout literally from the rooftops to encourage Citizen Participation. Now, as the New and Old are caught in the Crossroads on the social front, i wonder wether the Old and New Media are not in the same scenario? It is now i ask the question as to Who is Right and who is Wrong? I guess, the answer will be uncertain for some time now.
For months on end, i have criticized the Media coverage of some issues like Fashion, Celebrity weddings and all the Page 3 glamour that happens among the elites of society. But, a recent article by a prominent Journalist has said that this is all fine in this globalized world. All these things are part of the broader socio-economic functioning, and hence accepted. Today, Technological advancements have ensured that Negative events and positive events share equal amount of Air-time on Television and the Internet.
It is here where the lines are blurred. The blurring comes as to what is Media's priority? When there are more pressing issues plaguing people, is it acceptable for the Media to portray all the glitz and the Jazz that is out of the Common Man's reach? Of course, maybe, the Media has realized and grasped upon this aspect that ordinary people are interested in Celebrities. The consumerist and materialistic culture has established itself in Urban India, and one gets a feeling, that under the guise of Acceptability, even Trivial events can get serious coverage.
It is perhaps the People who have conditioned themselves that all glitzy events are important. Some people in their mid-40's argue that the Media during the Old socialist times of the 70's and 80's were just redundant. The media at that time were plagued by their short-sightedness. Today, if one compares the changes that have taken place, many argue that this what it should have been. Many of this generation welcome the changes.
Now, the Media is focusing on all aspects, ranging from the serious to the downright trivial. Critics of the Media argue that whatever time has been alloted to these trivial events can be substituted by little-known serious events that can affect people's life. Are the Critics right or wrong? Have they considered the Boredom aspect of Individuals? It is very hard to determine all that.
Unfortunately, the theme in today's world is that, Money and the Profit Motive are the defining points around which they function. The generation of this time have dismissed that time in the past as irrelevant and incompetent. Today, Anything is Cool and acceptable. But, I often wonder wether this is Blind Acceptance.
After writing this, i will still not have an idea wether all this is right and wrong. I guess, it is the job of the Critique to Criticize, and perhaps not read too much into their criticisms. Maybe, it is a bit too Idealistic for News channels to be all the time serious, and highlighting only serious aspects. Maybe, once in a while, the human mind tends to drift away into Triviality. Perhaps, the Media of this time is more appealing, but i wonder as to wether this appeal might be overshadowed by Apathy.
The Media of the Old, devoid of all technologies, encouraged Citizen Participation and hence, the old generation was vigilant. The New Media, encourages an equal bit of seriousness and Triviality. So, i am wondering wether this generation is Apathic or not. The new media has to shout literally from the rooftops to encourage Citizen Participation. Now, as the New and Old are caught in the Crossroads on the social front, i wonder wether the Old and New Media are not in the same scenario? It is now i ask the question as to Who is Right and who is Wrong? I guess, the answer will be uncertain for some time now.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Dreams and Nightmares
My life is going through an Interesting phase at the moment. All this has been influenced by the events unfolding on Television. One case is a dream, but the other event seems to be a nightmare which nobody expected. The verdict in the Manjunath Case as well as the disaster in Cricket represent conflicting times about India. The First part of 2007 has indeed being full of surprises. Let us get down to analyzing both these scenarios.
The Manjunath case might perhaps be considered as another victory for the Justice system. An IIM Graduate from Lucknow, S.Manjunath was on the verge of exposing the Petrol Adulteration Mafia in UP. He was murdered in 2004, and the case has been going on for the last 3 years. Yestreday, the verdict was passed by the sessions court, in which of the eight accused, seven were handed life imprisonment, while one was given the death penalty. Perhaps, indirectly, this is another victory for Media activism, for once again news channels took up the Manjunath case, and the results were yielded.
However, there is still a long way to go for the Judiciary to prove that it is providing the right course of Law. I have my doubts regarding the sustainability of Media activism. Can the Media be counted upon everytime to bring in Activism? When will the Judiciary wake up on its own count and deliver Truth and Justice? According to me, Media is still playing the rules of Selectivity when it comes to Activism. Where is the Media activism regarding the death of Professor Sabharwal at the hands of political goons? Media highlighted the initial plights, but is nowhere to be seen when the course of Justice is to be delivered. Even after Prof. Sabharwal's Son appears on TV asking for Justice for his father, there seems to be a minimal response.
The above argument highlights the fact that Media Activism is bound by Selectivity and that, it can't be counted upon everytime. The Citizens as well as the Judiciary have to initiate the path of Activism on their own, believing in nothing but their Conscience and having a crystal clear vision of the Truth.
While there seems to be some hope in the Judiciary, the Sports has taken two steps back. Billions of people were left disillusioned, and their anger spilled out on the streets. Effigies were burnt, people attacked the houses of the Sportsmen, and the result was the nightmarish disintegration of the Indian Psyche. The first round exit of the Indian Cricket team from the Carribbean highlighted the fact that India has a very, very long way to go before they can challenge the very best in Sports.
This case highlights the fact that Sports Culture in India is stagnating. Looking at the response of the so-called Fans, though in a minority, it might perhaps not be worth being a sportsmen here. Lots has been written, lots has been said, but the people have forgotten that it is just a Game. If I say that Winning and Losing is part and Parcel of the Game, it is guaranteed that i will be lynched by a mob. Agreed, we are disappointed, but there is a more subtler way to express it.
I guess that is why the heading is Dreams and Nightmares. India is caught between Dreams and Nightmares, and like in most aspects, we seem to be at the Crossroads.
The Manjunath case might perhaps be considered as another victory for the Justice system. An IIM Graduate from Lucknow, S.Manjunath was on the verge of exposing the Petrol Adulteration Mafia in UP. He was murdered in 2004, and the case has been going on for the last 3 years. Yestreday, the verdict was passed by the sessions court, in which of the eight accused, seven were handed life imprisonment, while one was given the death penalty. Perhaps, indirectly, this is another victory for Media activism, for once again news channels took up the Manjunath case, and the results were yielded.
However, there is still a long way to go for the Judiciary to prove that it is providing the right course of Law. I have my doubts regarding the sustainability of Media activism. Can the Media be counted upon everytime to bring in Activism? When will the Judiciary wake up on its own count and deliver Truth and Justice? According to me, Media is still playing the rules of Selectivity when it comes to Activism. Where is the Media activism regarding the death of Professor Sabharwal at the hands of political goons? Media highlighted the initial plights, but is nowhere to be seen when the course of Justice is to be delivered. Even after Prof. Sabharwal's Son appears on TV asking for Justice for his father, there seems to be a minimal response.
The above argument highlights the fact that Media Activism is bound by Selectivity and that, it can't be counted upon everytime. The Citizens as well as the Judiciary have to initiate the path of Activism on their own, believing in nothing but their Conscience and having a crystal clear vision of the Truth.
While there seems to be some hope in the Judiciary, the Sports has taken two steps back. Billions of people were left disillusioned, and their anger spilled out on the streets. Effigies were burnt, people attacked the houses of the Sportsmen, and the result was the nightmarish disintegration of the Indian Psyche. The first round exit of the Indian Cricket team from the Carribbean highlighted the fact that India has a very, very long way to go before they can challenge the very best in Sports.
This case highlights the fact that Sports Culture in India is stagnating. Looking at the response of the so-called Fans, though in a minority, it might perhaps not be worth being a sportsmen here. Lots has been written, lots has been said, but the people have forgotten that it is just a Game. If I say that Winning and Losing is part and Parcel of the Game, it is guaranteed that i will be lynched by a mob. Agreed, we are disappointed, but there is a more subtler way to express it.
I guess that is why the heading is Dreams and Nightmares. India is caught between Dreams and Nightmares, and like in most aspects, we seem to be at the Crossroads.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
No Equality on this
This topic is a very vague one. It is about understanding, either an individual or aspects of life which are so crucial to each and every one of us. In India, individuals are caught in the Crossroads between Tradition and Modernity, that understanding is blurred even further. In fact, to touch upon this thing is huge, because it is so vague.
What should i make about the position of woman in this Crossroads? If woman are to be believed, their position has not changed at all for generations. In fact, under the guise of Modernity, tradition tends to dominate the male psyche. Woman, nowadays, are playing second fiddle to the man, in all aspects of life. This might be a speculation, for there are no means to confirm it. When the male climbs up the ladder to success, the woman has to stay behind so that "Family" can be stable.
In this Modern society, there are only few instances of woman making it to the top and being successful at it. Majority of woman, in India and perhaps the whole world, achieve his situation. Even today, women are not allowed to progress out of their households. The desires and the needs of the woman are put aside and she has to sacrifice everything she has. With a heavy heart, she has to compromise on all her dreams for the more dominant male and Family.
Perhaps, the woman has hit the nail on the head when she says that Men are selfish and conceited. I admit that even after writing this, I won’t be able to understand this situation. The complexity of the woman mind, as well as the fact that Men cant be sensitive enough to understand, compound this matter further. Gender equality might perhaps be a Utopia in this world, because the essence of Compromise dominates the male psyche. 9/10 times, it is the woman who has to compromise, but if the role is reversed, then the male thinks a million times over.
Man, socially, might climb the ladders of success quickly. But, for the women, things might be as they are even 50 years from now on. With the passage of time, the complexity of the gender divide will only strengthen, and thus pushing the issue of equality further into non-existence.
What should i make about the position of woman in this Crossroads? If woman are to be believed, their position has not changed at all for generations. In fact, under the guise of Modernity, tradition tends to dominate the male psyche. Woman, nowadays, are playing second fiddle to the man, in all aspects of life. This might be a speculation, for there are no means to confirm it. When the male climbs up the ladder to success, the woman has to stay behind so that "Family" can be stable.
In this Modern society, there are only few instances of woman making it to the top and being successful at it. Majority of woman, in India and perhaps the whole world, achieve his situation. Even today, women are not allowed to progress out of their households. The desires and the needs of the woman are put aside and she has to sacrifice everything she has. With a heavy heart, she has to compromise on all her dreams for the more dominant male and Family.
Perhaps, the woman has hit the nail on the head when she says that Men are selfish and conceited. I admit that even after writing this, I won’t be able to understand this situation. The complexity of the woman mind, as well as the fact that Men cant be sensitive enough to understand, compound this matter further. Gender equality might perhaps be a Utopia in this world, because the essence of Compromise dominates the male psyche. 9/10 times, it is the woman who has to compromise, but if the role is reversed, then the male thinks a million times over.
Man, socially, might climb the ladders of success quickly. But, for the women, things might be as they are even 50 years from now on. With the passage of time, the complexity of the gender divide will only strengthen, and thus pushing the issue of equality further into non-existence.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
International Journalism
This is a topic that is very close to my heart. From the time i finished high school, the field of Journalism has always attracted me. I now have an opportunity to pursue an MA in this very field from the UK. I am looking forward to it, especially since i am doing it in a country that is home to perhaps the greatest International News Broadcaster of all times, the BBC. It is the lure and the hope of the BBC that i carry in my heart, and step forth on a new path and on to a new life.
International Journalism is a very difficult and one of the most challenging beats a Journalist can face. The Journalists of this generation are working in a globalized and Diversified environment. This can be a unique experience, a once in a lifetime experience and most of the time horrifying. To add to this, Journalists in this beat face a lot of Isolation. Unfortunately, the Purview which defines the parameters in International Journalism is conflict. Hence, International Journalism can be seen as presenting a very negative picture of the world in whole.
Fortunately, Technological advancemens in Media and Telecommunications has made the job of International Journalists lot easier. However, along with the advancements in Technology come the reduction in Time slots. Critics have often stated that International Journalism might score high on Connectivity. But, it falls short of making people understand the true nature of the issue involved. It is because of Time constraints that International issues and Journalists alike face Negligence. It is only when the magnitude of conflict is high on numbers that people from all over the world watch with keen interest.
These are several of the flaws that I will be exposed to when i get there. The problems that have been listed here form only a very small number. To outline each and every problem would take hours. The working environment will be challenging, and at each and every step, I, the individual, will discover myself. I will discover what the fact of life is in this Global village, so aptly put forth by Marshall McLuhan.
International Journalism is a very difficult and one of the most challenging beats a Journalist can face. The Journalists of this generation are working in a globalized and Diversified environment. This can be a unique experience, a once in a lifetime experience and most of the time horrifying. To add to this, Journalists in this beat face a lot of Isolation. Unfortunately, the Purview which defines the parameters in International Journalism is conflict. Hence, International Journalism can be seen as presenting a very negative picture of the world in whole.
Fortunately, Technological advancemens in Media and Telecommunications has made the job of International Journalists lot easier. However, along with the advancements in Technology come the reduction in Time slots. Critics have often stated that International Journalism might score high on Connectivity. But, it falls short of making people understand the true nature of the issue involved. It is because of Time constraints that International issues and Journalists alike face Negligence. It is only when the magnitude of conflict is high on numbers that people from all over the world watch with keen interest.
These are several of the flaws that I will be exposed to when i get there. The problems that have been listed here form only a very small number. To outline each and every problem would take hours. The working environment will be challenging, and at each and every step, I, the individual, will discover myself. I will discover what the fact of life is in this Global village, so aptly put forth by Marshall McLuhan.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Not worthy being a Sportsperson
This is regarding the responses by the Indian Public following Indian Cricket team's loss to Bangladesh in the opening round of the World Cup. Several youth wing members of a political party demolish an Under-Construction house of a Cricket player in Jharkhand, posters of the players are burnt, and protests and attacks occur outside the players houses. This is nothing new in India. It happened in 1996 and in 2003. In 1996, against Sri Lanka in the Semi-finals, angry crowds threw bottles on the field in Kolkatta leading to Sri Lanka winning. The reason being that the team performed below par. In 2003, following a dismal showing against Australia, several agitated "Fans" attacked a house of a player in UP and also there were angry demonstrations.
This is the scenario of Cricket in India. This is a nation that admires Cricket Fanatically, to the point where Cricketers are almost considered equivalent to a Supernatural force. Here in India, looking at these shameful events of the past two-three days, it is a tragedy that the Indian People are not good sportsmen. The Indian Public seem to have forgotten the basic fact that this is afterall a Sport, and in this, winning and losing are all part and parcel of it. The period in which Greig Chappell, the current Indian Coach, has witnessed the peak of unsporting behaviour by the Public.
The whole tenure was marked by the protests of dropping former Skipper Saurav Ganguly on lack of form. The public, with the help of the media, stroked the flames of their pasions and made it an issue each time India either won or lost. The axing of Ganguly has helped India, and also it has helped him personally, because now he is performing better. But, for me, the shameful and unsporting exhibition by the public on this highlights the point that Indian people are simply Unsporting. The height of this came in an India-South Africa ODI match, when the capacity crowd cheered for South Africa rather than India in Kolkatta.
Furthur incidences of some Oriya Political goon slapping Chappell for not including the Oriya players showed the unsporting nature of the people as well. It is because of these above reasons that one feels that being a Sportsmen in India is simply not worth it. Add to this, the constant irritant in the form of Advertising adds to the woes of the Sportsmen concerned. If somebody targets these Advertising firms, only then will Sportsmen in the country perform.
The list goes on. Whatever one says, i will always maintain two facts. One, We Indians are really unsporting people. Two, there is nothing called Sports Culture here in India. The Indian public are looking for the wrong benchmarks to get interested in other sports. By this, i mean that Indians watch with awe and inspiration the English football league or EPL. It is well known that the EPL is ZERO as far as quality is concerned, and yet people watch with blind fanaticism.
I shudder to think what will happen if India does not qualify for the next stage of the World Cup. I could very well imagine that the players might not be allowed to land on Indian Soil. When this kind of scenario confronts them, they will state that being a Sportsperson in India, despite all the glory and fame, is not Worth it.
This is the scenario of Cricket in India. This is a nation that admires Cricket Fanatically, to the point where Cricketers are almost considered equivalent to a Supernatural force. Here in India, looking at these shameful events of the past two-three days, it is a tragedy that the Indian People are not good sportsmen. The Indian Public seem to have forgotten the basic fact that this is afterall a Sport, and in this, winning and losing are all part and parcel of it. The period in which Greig Chappell, the current Indian Coach, has witnessed the peak of unsporting behaviour by the Public.
The whole tenure was marked by the protests of dropping former Skipper Saurav Ganguly on lack of form. The public, with the help of the media, stroked the flames of their pasions and made it an issue each time India either won or lost. The axing of Ganguly has helped India, and also it has helped him personally, because now he is performing better. But, for me, the shameful and unsporting exhibition by the public on this highlights the point that Indian people are simply Unsporting. The height of this came in an India-South Africa ODI match, when the capacity crowd cheered for South Africa rather than India in Kolkatta.
Furthur incidences of some Oriya Political goon slapping Chappell for not including the Oriya players showed the unsporting nature of the people as well. It is because of these above reasons that one feels that being a Sportsmen in India is simply not worth it. Add to this, the constant irritant in the form of Advertising adds to the woes of the Sportsmen concerned. If somebody targets these Advertising firms, only then will Sportsmen in the country perform.
The list goes on. Whatever one says, i will always maintain two facts. One, We Indians are really unsporting people. Two, there is nothing called Sports Culture here in India. The Indian public are looking for the wrong benchmarks to get interested in other sports. By this, i mean that Indians watch with awe and inspiration the English football league or EPL. It is well known that the EPL is ZERO as far as quality is concerned, and yet people watch with blind fanaticism.
I shudder to think what will happen if India does not qualify for the next stage of the World Cup. I could very well imagine that the players might not be allowed to land on Indian Soil. When this kind of scenario confronts them, they will state that being a Sportsperson in India, despite all the glory and fame, is not Worth it.
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Something HAS happened
I had said in the previous post that something was going to happen on Sunday. It happened in the field of Sports, events which were shocking and even Tragic. India's loss to a weaker side like Bangladesh and Pakistan's loss to an Unknown Ireland team has led to tremors in the Subcontinent. While India face an uphill task to stay in the Cup, Pakistan are out of the competition. The news late in the day was filled with Tragedy, as Bob Woolmer, the coach of the Pakistan team, was found dead in his Hotel room. This World Cup has taken a really tragic turn, and there is all probability that this World Cup might be remembered for the wrong reasons.
The reasons behind Bob Woolmers death are still unknown. But, in the back of my mind, i would have to assume that the backlash that Bob Woolmer anticipated after this poor showing would be too much for him. Cricket in the subcontinent is so much defined by passion and fanaticism that they people forget that it is afterall a Sport. Along with the Bob Woolmer incident, the youth wing of a political party in Jharkhand, home of Wicketkeeper Batsmen MS Dhoni, destroyed his under construction house in Ranchi. The activists were angry at the failure of Dhoni to perform against Bangladesh. So, just like 2003, when several player's houses were attacked following a string of bad performances, history repeats itself.
Both the cases point out to the Detrimental Fanaticism that Cricket takes on in the Sub-Continent. It would be terrifying and indeed interesting to visualize the Indian Cricket teams early return, for there will be chaos and in some instance incidences of Violence. Already, the fans are calling for the Blood of some of the players, and many expect that the team will not even reach the competitive stage.
The failure of the Indian team has highlighted the negativity of their commitment to Advertising. Irate fans, instead of targeting the players, should instead target Advertisers, who feed upon their popularity. When there should be serious preparation for a important competition, Advertisers distract them and lay out a path to endorse their products. The incident that happened in MS Dhoni's house in Ranchi was unfortunate, because that same thing should be directed at all Advertisers and their agencies. If India go out of the World Cup, dont blame the players, blame the Advertisers and the lack of mental strength among the team.
As for Bob Woolmer, the tenure of Coaching Pakistan has unfortunately being filled with Controversy. This has ultimately got to him, and hence has resulted in his breakdown, leading to his unfortunate demise. Woolmer transformed teams like South Africa into the Number 1 side that they are today, but with Pakistan, he tried hard but could never get the results. Whenever Pakistan committed Self Destruction, the repercussions proved deadly for him too. Now, he is no more, and it will be interesting to see how Pakistan go from here. Wether Pakistan Cricket's ride to hell has just begun, is a speculation, just as the causes leading to Bob Woolmer's unfortunate death
The reasons behind Bob Woolmers death are still unknown. But, in the back of my mind, i would have to assume that the backlash that Bob Woolmer anticipated after this poor showing would be too much for him. Cricket in the subcontinent is so much defined by passion and fanaticism that they people forget that it is afterall a Sport. Along with the Bob Woolmer incident, the youth wing of a political party in Jharkhand, home of Wicketkeeper Batsmen MS Dhoni, destroyed his under construction house in Ranchi. The activists were angry at the failure of Dhoni to perform against Bangladesh. So, just like 2003, when several player's houses were attacked following a string of bad performances, history repeats itself.
Both the cases point out to the Detrimental Fanaticism that Cricket takes on in the Sub-Continent. It would be terrifying and indeed interesting to visualize the Indian Cricket teams early return, for there will be chaos and in some instance incidences of Violence. Already, the fans are calling for the Blood of some of the players, and many expect that the team will not even reach the competitive stage.
The failure of the Indian team has highlighted the negativity of their commitment to Advertising. Irate fans, instead of targeting the players, should instead target Advertisers, who feed upon their popularity. When there should be serious preparation for a important competition, Advertisers distract them and lay out a path to endorse their products. The incident that happened in MS Dhoni's house in Ranchi was unfortunate, because that same thing should be directed at all Advertisers and their agencies. If India go out of the World Cup, dont blame the players, blame the Advertisers and the lack of mental strength among the team.
As for Bob Woolmer, the tenure of Coaching Pakistan has unfortunately being filled with Controversy. This has ultimately got to him, and hence has resulted in his breakdown, leading to his unfortunate demise. Woolmer transformed teams like South Africa into the Number 1 side that they are today, but with Pakistan, he tried hard but could never get the results. Whenever Pakistan committed Self Destruction, the repercussions proved deadly for him too. Now, he is no more, and it will be interesting to see how Pakistan go from here. Wether Pakistan Cricket's ride to hell has just begun, is a speculation, just as the causes leading to Bob Woolmer's unfortunate death
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Something is going to happen
I am perhaps not looking forward to this sunday. It might perhaps be events on the sporting field that may put me off. There was this sensation sometime in the evening today, and tommorow i do not know how sinister it is going to be. The sporting field, notably the Cricket World Cup, could be seeing huge ripples on the calm seas, but i am not going to go in depth with it as it is still too premature.
On the political front, Nandigram continues to boil. The battle of Capitalism and Peasent Lands continues to plague Bengal. The outcome this time has been much bloodier and violent as the Singur one. Is lack of Political will and hypocracy to be blamed for all this? Perhaps yes, perhaps no! One thing is for sure though, the police action in Nandigram has really brought the whole state of West Bengal to a standstill. How much longer it will simmer is yet unknown. What will happen tommorow is anybody's guess.
On the personal front, i have been reunited with the only Computer game that has thrilled and excited me. However, it is because of this excitement that i could not contribute on my blog yesterday. For me, to get over the addiction of this game, it will be really tough. But, i am more than committed to continue updating my blog. On a Sunday Evening, what will be my plans is also anybody's guess, because here in Bhopal, i feel that almost everyday is a Sunday, now that the Vacations have begun.
Tommorow is going to be a day like never before. Either for the Bad reasons or the good reason, i do not know. But, i get a feeling that something might happen.
On the political front, Nandigram continues to boil. The battle of Capitalism and Peasent Lands continues to plague Bengal. The outcome this time has been much bloodier and violent as the Singur one. Is lack of Political will and hypocracy to be blamed for all this? Perhaps yes, perhaps no! One thing is for sure though, the police action in Nandigram has really brought the whole state of West Bengal to a standstill. How much longer it will simmer is yet unknown. What will happen tommorow is anybody's guess.
On the personal front, i have been reunited with the only Computer game that has thrilled and excited me. However, it is because of this excitement that i could not contribute on my blog yesterday. For me, to get over the addiction of this game, it will be really tough. But, i am more than committed to continue updating my blog. On a Sunday Evening, what will be my plans is also anybody's guess, because here in Bhopal, i feel that almost everyday is a Sunday, now that the Vacations have begun.
Tommorow is going to be a day like never before. Either for the Bad reasons or the good reason, i do not know. But, i get a feeling that something might happen.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
The Criticizing of Politics: Justified or not?
From the time we set upon the path of education till our old age, human beings share one common perception. In fact, this perception has been the only constant feature of Human beings through generations. The perception of viewing Politics as a Gutter and Politicians as Corrupt individuals has remained constant. Anywhere we go, in our schools and Colleges, in Coffee Shops, in Offices, in Films and any public place, the notion that Politicians are all Corrupt has been enforced again and again. Ask the younger generation and they would say that they would want to be an Engineer, Doctor, MBA Bigwig, Architect, but never a Politician. Now, in the beginning of the 21st Century, is this perception justified? It also points out to the very understanding of Corruption as most people percieve of it.
Our human psyche is such that it is acceptable to call Politicians corrupt. Our mind has been bombarded with this perception so many times that it is hard to assume a Politician and his field anything but Corrupt. However, i am going to put forth some things which might enable to do a double check on this issue.
The first thing is if the field of Politics is like the gutter, why dont Citizens clean it up? Why doesnt the initiative come from the Citizen himself? The fact of the matter is that along with the acceptance of Politicians being corrupt, Citizen Mentality has leaned towards Apathy. If the dirt is present, let it be there, but do not try and get your hands dirty in this. It is another but unfortunate thing that a film made me realize this. The mindset of India is such that the effort to change the Status Quo, however rotten it might be, is frowned upon. The thought that maybe Change could be hard to digest overrides this thought.
People talk about eliminating Corruption. Destroying the Corrupt through the process of Law and by force is often the solution metted out by Citizens. However, the more basic question that needs to be asked is: Can Corruption really be removed from a System?
The answer according to me is NO. Individuals are by nature Corrupt. The Urge to do things quickly and to bypass the rigidness of the system is something all people want. I think Corruption can only be curbed from within, not eliminated. It remains to be seen that how the Conscience of Man can be sold down the drain for a period of time. Surely, at some point, there must be an effort and a realization to curb the Corrupt tendencies. This thing might be time consuming, but according to me, it is a fact that people must realize. If Corruption has to be eliminated completely, kill of the human race in the whole planet! Only then, a Corrupt free Planet can be possible.
According to me, other than the acceptance that Politicians are corrupt, they are also very Brave People. They have voluntarily allowed themselves to dirty their hands doing Public Service. Not many individuals in this planet would do that. The people who sit in their Air Conditioned Offices, in their executive Suites, in their Couches at home, they represent the very reason as to how Apathy can rejuvenate Corruption at any given point of time.
It is for these combination of reasons that I choose not to call Politics a Gutter. For me, the real challenge comes as to how can you clean the Gutter. This Gutter will test my conscience, and give avenues to sell it off for a price. However, it is better to do something about it, rather than just talking about it. This generation, some of them at least, believe that it is time to "Walk the Walk, rather than Talk the Talk".
Our human psyche is such that it is acceptable to call Politicians corrupt. Our mind has been bombarded with this perception so many times that it is hard to assume a Politician and his field anything but Corrupt. However, i am going to put forth some things which might enable to do a double check on this issue.
The first thing is if the field of Politics is like the gutter, why dont Citizens clean it up? Why doesnt the initiative come from the Citizen himself? The fact of the matter is that along with the acceptance of Politicians being corrupt, Citizen Mentality has leaned towards Apathy. If the dirt is present, let it be there, but do not try and get your hands dirty in this. It is another but unfortunate thing that a film made me realize this. The mindset of India is such that the effort to change the Status Quo, however rotten it might be, is frowned upon. The thought that maybe Change could be hard to digest overrides this thought.
People talk about eliminating Corruption. Destroying the Corrupt through the process of Law and by force is often the solution metted out by Citizens. However, the more basic question that needs to be asked is: Can Corruption really be removed from a System?
The answer according to me is NO. Individuals are by nature Corrupt. The Urge to do things quickly and to bypass the rigidness of the system is something all people want. I think Corruption can only be curbed from within, not eliminated. It remains to be seen that how the Conscience of Man can be sold down the drain for a period of time. Surely, at some point, there must be an effort and a realization to curb the Corrupt tendencies. This thing might be time consuming, but according to me, it is a fact that people must realize. If Corruption has to be eliminated completely, kill of the human race in the whole planet! Only then, a Corrupt free Planet can be possible.
According to me, other than the acceptance that Politicians are corrupt, they are also very Brave People. They have voluntarily allowed themselves to dirty their hands doing Public Service. Not many individuals in this planet would do that. The people who sit in their Air Conditioned Offices, in their executive Suites, in their Couches at home, they represent the very reason as to how Apathy can rejuvenate Corruption at any given point of time.
It is for these combination of reasons that I choose not to call Politics a Gutter. For me, the real challenge comes as to how can you clean the Gutter. This Gutter will test my conscience, and give avenues to sell it off for a price. However, it is better to do something about it, rather than just talking about it. This generation, some of them at least, believe that it is time to "Walk the Walk, rather than Talk the Talk".
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Sadness and nothing but Sadness
Rare things are supposed to be preserved. The reason being that they offer a glimpse into things which individuals do not have an idea about. The reason why Historical Artifacts are preserved is because they offer a glimpse into the events of the past which shape up the future. That is why millions are invested into safeguarding and preserving historical monuments and artifacts. But, unfortunately, here in India, some pieces of history are destroyed, and this gives me nothing but sadness.
In a News Item today on CNN-IBN, a story about India's first Talking movie was broadcast. The film 'Alam Ara', released on March 14th, 1931, was the first film ever to have voice in India, and this ultimately paved the way for Indian Cinema to be what it is today. Considering the impact that Indian cinema has on the world today, treasures like these should be preserved. But, unfortunately, there is not even a single print of this film anywhere. The prints of the film were destroyed in a fire in the Pune Film office some years ago, and thus no traces remain. Even films like 'Raja Harishchandra', which was the first film ever made in India, is suffering from the same fate.
The report ended by saying that to retrieve the prints of these rare films would be very difficult indeed. Generations who would want to know about the beginnings of Indian Cinema now have to deal with only facts written on paper, not the original film. It is indeed a shame that the authorities could have been so careless. We could forgive them for the one fact that it was by accident that a fire broke out which destroyed the film. But, it is a Cardinal sin to not have made copies of the print, regardless of how slow or painstaking it might have been.
I guess this is the difference between India and the West. The West, notably Hollywood preserves most of its works and has back up copies of most films. I stand by this, because i could watch a 1920's American Film titled 'Birth of a Nation', on a CD for my Cinema subject. We got a glimpse of Cinema in the 1920's by watching this film. Thus, we only have ourselves to blame for not preserving our History. Our Film Industry can rectify some of the errors by preserving some of the films of the 40's at least. But, for me, the damage has already been done, and a rich Treasure trove has been lost for Indian Cinema. This should also make the New Generation very Sad, for they have lost the chance to discover something good about their Cinema.
In a News Item today on CNN-IBN, a story about India's first Talking movie was broadcast. The film 'Alam Ara', released on March 14th, 1931, was the first film ever to have voice in India, and this ultimately paved the way for Indian Cinema to be what it is today. Considering the impact that Indian cinema has on the world today, treasures like these should be preserved. But, unfortunately, there is not even a single print of this film anywhere. The prints of the film were destroyed in a fire in the Pune Film office some years ago, and thus no traces remain. Even films like 'Raja Harishchandra', which was the first film ever made in India, is suffering from the same fate.
The report ended by saying that to retrieve the prints of these rare films would be very difficult indeed. Generations who would want to know about the beginnings of Indian Cinema now have to deal with only facts written on paper, not the original film. It is indeed a shame that the authorities could have been so careless. We could forgive them for the one fact that it was by accident that a fire broke out which destroyed the film. But, it is a Cardinal sin to not have made copies of the print, regardless of how slow or painstaking it might have been.
I guess this is the difference between India and the West. The West, notably Hollywood preserves most of its works and has back up copies of most films. I stand by this, because i could watch a 1920's American Film titled 'Birth of a Nation', on a CD for my Cinema subject. We got a glimpse of Cinema in the 1920's by watching this film. Thus, we only have ourselves to blame for not preserving our History. Our Film Industry can rectify some of the errors by preserving some of the films of the 40's at least. But, for me, the damage has already been done, and a rich Treasure trove has been lost for Indian Cinema. This should also make the New Generation very Sad, for they have lost the chance to discover something good about their Cinema.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Start of the Carnival
The 9th Cricket World Cup has begun today, and the excitement is very high in a Cricket Crazy nation like ours. This World Cup begins in the Caribbean, a place best known for its beautiful sights and sounds, as well as the Carnival atmosphere that accompanies every major event. There has been considerable build up of excitement for the past one year, as it happens with every Cricket event in which India is there.
This World Cup might also be special for India. Many analysts say that this is the best team being picked as well as the best prepared of the lot. The Ads run by Pepsi, with the theme being the Blue Billion cheering for India, has been regularly replayed at every commercial break. Trust these Advertisers to irritate Audiences! This event unfortunately provides advertisers to dig their Claws deeper.
The only unfortunate thing, which is beyond our control is the Time Difference. People in India will have to burn the Midnight Oil to watch the full match, on account of the 10 hour Time difference between India and the Caribbean. But, in a Cricket Crazy country like ours, and in particular when India will be involved, the people will do the needful to catch a glimpse of this event.
This time around the people are very optimistic, many believe that this is India's best chance to win this trophy. But, being an Indian supporter, i have observed that to trust India to win is a Mountainous task, and one that will make your hair grey. The motto being that the Indian Team can anytime Self-Destruct, both on the field and mentally. Hence, to have full backing of the team will not be advisable. But, I am an Indian, and hence, i will like nothing better for India to win the Cup, and bring forth a Renaissance in Sports in the country. For the moment, it is Cheers to the World Cup and also the Best wishes for my country.
This World Cup might also be special for India. Many analysts say that this is the best team being picked as well as the best prepared of the lot. The Ads run by Pepsi, with the theme being the Blue Billion cheering for India, has been regularly replayed at every commercial break. Trust these Advertisers to irritate Audiences! This event unfortunately provides advertisers to dig their Claws deeper.
The only unfortunate thing, which is beyond our control is the Time Difference. People in India will have to burn the Midnight Oil to watch the full match, on account of the 10 hour Time difference between India and the Caribbean. But, in a Cricket Crazy country like ours, and in particular when India will be involved, the people will do the needful to catch a glimpse of this event.
This time around the people are very optimistic, many believe that this is India's best chance to win this trophy. But, being an Indian supporter, i have observed that to trust India to win is a Mountainous task, and one that will make your hair grey. The motto being that the Indian Team can anytime Self-Destruct, both on the field and mentally. Hence, to have full backing of the team will not be advisable. But, I am an Indian, and hence, i will like nothing better for India to win the Cup, and bring forth a Renaissance in Sports in the country. For the moment, it is Cheers to the World Cup and also the Best wishes for my country.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Mind Space
What goes on in an Individuals Mind? What are the various thought processes and Ideas that our brain churns out? What makes one man's thought the motto of an entire generation? Things that are preached in some era become the common sense of this era. What is that thing that makes Human beings so Complex? What makes Individuals Interpret things differently? Why have so many Ideologies come up to try and improve the condition of Man?
All these Answers are as muddled as the Human psyche and mind. I am not a Sociologist, Psychologist to give concrete answers to all the questions asked above. For me, a common man, i can only touch the surface of this variety of Mind Spaces. Each and every individual on this planet has various interpretations of many things, each confined within their mind space. At the end of the day, what is trusted as Concrete and what is considered a Lie?
This post will throw up more questions than answers. The large amount of diverse information on each and every kind of things has been the feature of this New Technoogical age. I guess, by the end of the day, it all depends upon the two T's of human life. Trust and Tangibilty are two things which can make a little sense of this diversity.
Walter Lippmann, writing in 1922 in his book Public Opinion remarked that "Men trusted the pictures in their Heads". Journalists today are taught that there is no such thing as Truth. There are only facts; Facts which can be seen, touched or percieved by the senses. Both these aspects are integral in each and every individual Mind Space. However, there seems to be a catch in this. The Mind also has the power to Distort images, Misinterpret them according to the convinience of Man's Socio-economic setup. In Today's world, Tangibility also varies. The reason being that there is too much of Information overload, and the lines of Fact and Fiction are blurred on account of the electronic and technological nature of the Medium .
This post is just a general Observation. It should be warned that this throws nothing new. But, I would want to question the very basis upon which Truth, Lies, Justice are based on? In this era of Reasoning and thinking, the base of the mentioned are really blurred. Can Individuals really define Truth, Lies, Justice? I guess the Answer is as diverse as the setup of the Human Mind Space. But, at the end of the day, it all boils down to the Two C's, namely Convinience and Conscience. The Two T's and the Two C's represent the conflict within this Mind Space of Humans, and thus will be the defining point of this Era. Conflict between the Two C's and the Two T's will define Social Fabrics in the new era.
All these Answers are as muddled as the Human psyche and mind. I am not a Sociologist, Psychologist to give concrete answers to all the questions asked above. For me, a common man, i can only touch the surface of this variety of Mind Spaces. Each and every individual on this planet has various interpretations of many things, each confined within their mind space. At the end of the day, what is trusted as Concrete and what is considered a Lie?
This post will throw up more questions than answers. The large amount of diverse information on each and every kind of things has been the feature of this New Technoogical age. I guess, by the end of the day, it all depends upon the two T's of human life. Trust and Tangibilty are two things which can make a little sense of this diversity.
Walter Lippmann, writing in 1922 in his book Public Opinion remarked that "Men trusted the pictures in their Heads". Journalists today are taught that there is no such thing as Truth. There are only facts; Facts which can be seen, touched or percieved by the senses. Both these aspects are integral in each and every individual Mind Space. However, there seems to be a catch in this. The Mind also has the power to Distort images, Misinterpret them according to the convinience of Man's Socio-economic setup. In Today's world, Tangibility also varies. The reason being that there is too much of Information overload, and the lines of Fact and Fiction are blurred on account of the electronic and technological nature of the Medium .
This post is just a general Observation. It should be warned that this throws nothing new. But, I would want to question the very basis upon which Truth, Lies, Justice are based on? In this era of Reasoning and thinking, the base of the mentioned are really blurred. Can Individuals really define Truth, Lies, Justice? I guess the Answer is as diverse as the setup of the Human Mind Space. But, at the end of the day, it all boils down to the Two C's, namely Convinience and Conscience. The Two T's and the Two C's represent the conflict within this Mind Space of Humans, and thus will be the defining point of this Era. Conflict between the Two C's and the Two T's will define Social Fabrics in the new era.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
A Cultural Experience of a lifetime
I attended a party today, and the theme was rural based. The backdrop was Rajasthan, and today, i got a glimpse of the colour and the spectacle of Rajasthani Culture. After having seen this, my wish before i leave is to travel to Rajasthan, and experience all the splendours of this colourful state. Rajasthan has always fascinated me, because of its puppets, colours, palaces and the Dancing.
It was the Dancers who really gave a good time at the party today. The various kinds of Rajasthani Folk Dancing were on stage and some of the performances were truly mind boggling. There was an act were in the Female Dancer balanced 8 pots on her head and she balanced herself on two glasses and then on top of three razor sharp swords. At the same time, maintaining her balance as well as her movement, it was truly fantastic. The music score also reflected the cultural setup of the state as a whole.
The state is an exhibition of colours. Pink, Blue, White are the most prominent colours of the state. Along with a large number of Forts and palaces, this makes Rajasthan truly spectacular.The Puppet shows that are held in many towns across Rajasthan are an indication that the method of Story telling is unique here. With the blending of Music, Song and Story, the locals and the outsiders get equally entertained. It is perhaps this reason that Rajasthan will make your journey an unforgettable one.
The only complaint against the people of Rajasthan is that they are very conservative. The people here adher to the age old values of Matriarchy and Patriarcy. But, leaving that aside, Rajasthan is indeed a Cultural experience of a lifetime. I got fascinated when i got that experience in a party here in Bhopal. I wonder how it is going to be when i experience those in that very land. It really thrills me, and a Trip to Rajasthan is definately on the cards, thanks to this event.
It was the Dancers who really gave a good time at the party today. The various kinds of Rajasthani Folk Dancing were on stage and some of the performances were truly mind boggling. There was an act were in the Female Dancer balanced 8 pots on her head and she balanced herself on two glasses and then on top of three razor sharp swords. At the same time, maintaining her balance as well as her movement, it was truly fantastic. The music score also reflected the cultural setup of the state as a whole.
The state is an exhibition of colours. Pink, Blue, White are the most prominent colours of the state. Along with a large number of Forts and palaces, this makes Rajasthan truly spectacular.The Puppet shows that are held in many towns across Rajasthan are an indication that the method of Story telling is unique here. With the blending of Music, Song and Story, the locals and the outsiders get equally entertained. It is perhaps this reason that Rajasthan will make your journey an unforgettable one.
The only complaint against the people of Rajasthan is that they are very conservative. The people here adher to the age old values of Matriarchy and Patriarcy. But, leaving that aside, Rajasthan is indeed a Cultural experience of a lifetime. I got fascinated when i got that experience in a party here in Bhopal. I wonder how it is going to be when i experience those in that very land. It really thrills me, and a Trip to Rajasthan is definately on the cards, thanks to this event.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
So Much for that!!!!!!!!!
There has been a break in my writing again. Now, that i am back home, i expect that the updates will be back to normal. Three things have disturbed me a lot. Two outside events and also one personal. I will elaborate on the personal stuff later, but two events outside of my control have made me ponder.
Firstly, my journey from Mumbai to Bhopal on the 8th. The Media have during the past one year highlighted the brilliance of the Railways. The growth in numbers of the passengers, and the way how the Railway minister has turned the tide. In this Budget session of 2007-08, he declared that this fiscal year, the Railways will observe it as 'Railway Cleanliness Year'. So much for that Claim!!!! On the Journey, the train that i travelled in was Filthy. During the whole trip, a small rat made life miserable for the passengers. There was rubbish, and some people had spilt their food, and nobody was willing to clean it. Along with the Rat, there were small cockroaches and large volumes of dust on the seats. It is worth noting that the 2153 Kurla-Habibganj Express is very clean, and that it was given an ISO-9000 Certificate. Perhaps, the Railway Authorities will observe Cleanliness Policies only in the Air-Conditioned Compartments, not the Sleeper coaches. This is the problem with the Politicians in India. If they make a law, then there has to be a catch somewhere which will render it dysfunctional and Unabiding.
Second, the Media were highlighting the so-called Grand Wedding of Liz Hurley and Arun Nayar. I will never understand as to what connection do these people have in the lifes of Common people. The Media, in their pursuit of grabbing the TRP's, have stooped down to the level of shooting Marriage Videos. There was apparently a Fight between Media personnel and the Security. If this is how the future of the Media looks like, then the country is in Big Trouble. On the other hand, i was reading a Book titled 'The Best of Tehelka'. After going throught the beginning of the book, I have realized that sections of Indian Society do not deserve Quality Journalism. The Country needs more media outlets like Tehelka, not some glorified Infotainment Channel. Tehelka is the real Watchdog of Indian Democracy, but the tendency of the elites are so third rate, that Tehelka shall always be fighting an Uphill Battle.
Third, the house was in a mess when we came home. Our maid refused to turn up for the last 15 days, and it took hours of cleaning to get the house functioning back in order. How am i to interpret this? Rumours were floating around that the Maid's father expired. Normally, if she had not come for a week, it was OK. But, by not coming for 17 days (including today), she has foresaken the factor of Responsibility. Nobody can help her now, although i sincerely wish that there be NO Maid System. I perhaps will have to fight my mind and stick to the fact that if some things have to be done, we need to do it on our own. I really have to think hard about this. To do most things on our own, gives us an added pleasure, I guess. But, it sounds too Idealistic, So much for that!
Firstly, my journey from Mumbai to Bhopal on the 8th. The Media have during the past one year highlighted the brilliance of the Railways. The growth in numbers of the passengers, and the way how the Railway minister has turned the tide. In this Budget session of 2007-08, he declared that this fiscal year, the Railways will observe it as 'Railway Cleanliness Year'. So much for that Claim!!!! On the Journey, the train that i travelled in was Filthy. During the whole trip, a small rat made life miserable for the passengers. There was rubbish, and some people had spilt their food, and nobody was willing to clean it. Along with the Rat, there were small cockroaches and large volumes of dust on the seats. It is worth noting that the 2153 Kurla-Habibganj Express is very clean, and that it was given an ISO-9000 Certificate. Perhaps, the Railway Authorities will observe Cleanliness Policies only in the Air-Conditioned Compartments, not the Sleeper coaches. This is the problem with the Politicians in India. If they make a law, then there has to be a catch somewhere which will render it dysfunctional and Unabiding.
Second, the Media were highlighting the so-called Grand Wedding of Liz Hurley and Arun Nayar. I will never understand as to what connection do these people have in the lifes of Common people. The Media, in their pursuit of grabbing the TRP's, have stooped down to the level of shooting Marriage Videos. There was apparently a Fight between Media personnel and the Security. If this is how the future of the Media looks like, then the country is in Big Trouble. On the other hand, i was reading a Book titled 'The Best of Tehelka'. After going throught the beginning of the book, I have realized that sections of Indian Society do not deserve Quality Journalism. The Country needs more media outlets like Tehelka, not some glorified Infotainment Channel. Tehelka is the real Watchdog of Indian Democracy, but the tendency of the elites are so third rate, that Tehelka shall always be fighting an Uphill Battle.
Third, the house was in a mess when we came home. Our maid refused to turn up for the last 15 days, and it took hours of cleaning to get the house functioning back in order. How am i to interpret this? Rumours were floating around that the Maid's father expired. Normally, if she had not come for a week, it was OK. But, by not coming for 17 days (including today), she has foresaken the factor of Responsibility. Nobody can help her now, although i sincerely wish that there be NO Maid System. I perhaps will have to fight my mind and stick to the fact that if some things have to be done, we need to do it on our own. I really have to think hard about this. To do most things on our own, gives us an added pleasure, I guess. But, it sounds too Idealistic, So much for that!
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
Summertime
March has arrived, and with it, the last of the beautiful winter fades out. India now faces a tough four months ahead. Its going to be Summer Time, and for me, i consider this time as a time of Extreme discomfort. I have never liked Summer, mainly because it is so hot, and the dust and pollution adds to the discomfort.
In Bhopal, my hometown, the day temperatures in summer go upto 43 degrees. Last year, in May, it recorded 46 degrees. The intense heat made me confined to the four corners of my house, with the Air Conditioner in full blast. It is only very late in the evening that i manage to come out and have some fun. Anybody foolish enough to venture in the Noon time during Summer is bound to suffer. I endorse this, as i did suffer.
Many school Children though would thoroughly disagree with me. For them, Summer is Salvation time for them. The rigours of Daily school life and studies are left behind, and they enjoy to their fullest during this period. Parents go out on a vacation and the children enjoy to their fullest. Even I admit for the fact that I was relieved when Summer came, but that was a long time ago.
I only wish that Summers would be more moderate, not an Inferno.In the Urban Lifestyle, Heat plus Pollution makes life miserable. The concretization has also not helped matters for ordinary people in the city. However, every season has its shares of Pros and Cons, and only we can ensure that we pull through a particular season with safety and Fun. I go into this season with a Positive note, that perhaps Summers might not be as bad as we think. It all depends on other factors of comfort which might aid us, but till then, I welcome Summer as i do with every other season
In Bhopal, my hometown, the day temperatures in summer go upto 43 degrees. Last year, in May, it recorded 46 degrees. The intense heat made me confined to the four corners of my house, with the Air Conditioner in full blast. It is only very late in the evening that i manage to come out and have some fun. Anybody foolish enough to venture in the Noon time during Summer is bound to suffer. I endorse this, as i did suffer.
Many school Children though would thoroughly disagree with me. For them, Summer is Salvation time for them. The rigours of Daily school life and studies are left behind, and they enjoy to their fullest during this period. Parents go out on a vacation and the children enjoy to their fullest. Even I admit for the fact that I was relieved when Summer came, but that was a long time ago.
I only wish that Summers would be more moderate, not an Inferno.In the Urban Lifestyle, Heat plus Pollution makes life miserable. The concretization has also not helped matters for ordinary people in the city. However, every season has its shares of Pros and Cons, and only we can ensure that we pull through a particular season with safety and Fun. I go into this season with a Positive note, that perhaps Summers might not be as bad as we think. It all depends on other factors of comfort which might aid us, but till then, I welcome Summer as i do with every other season
Monday, March 5, 2007
It's MY Life!!!!!!!!!!
Or is it? That is what i am trying to figure out. For so many generations, people live life either in the Microcosm or in the Macrocosm. By the Microcosm, i mean for their friends, for their family and of course their personal life events. The Macrocosm, would suggest the broader society, and doing your bit for your country. However, in today's time, where reasoning is dominant, the individuality suffers, and the youth of today's times are caught in the Crossroads as to what is right and what is wrong.
I am now at the Crossroads. I do not know what is right and what is wrong. This is with regard to my trip to the UK for my masters in International Journalism. If i was going there in 2000 or something, i might not have faced this dilemma. The one thing that i have noticed is that Globalization, for whatever we have read is a farce. For, it is observd that the 'Liberal West' is tending to furthur isolate itself in this global village. Conservatism and emphasis on the Sons of the Soil are making their presence felt in that part of the world.
Fear is built up among people who go there that they will be treated as Second Class Citizens. A report today about the plight of Asian Americans getting shunned in the field of Music adds to the fear. The fact of the matter is that the Stereotype is dominating the psyche of the people in the West about people from the East. In the UK, the place where i am going, i might also be a victim of this stereotype. Today, in order to save the native population from being Jobless, the Migrants are shunned. These migrants, to which these forward nations promise the sky, are bought down to earth and shunned. I might, hopefuly not, be part of this.
I am being accused by my close ones, that I am taking things for Granted. I go in with an attitude that things might be wonderful there. But, they do not seem to understand, that I do not expect a better life there. I am only going there with Optimism that things can be a little better. But, the writing is on the wall. To expect a better life away from your own house, is a Dream. For me, being Optimistic is my only tool for survival, and i hope that i am not wrong at least on this front.
I am now at the Crossroads. I do not know what is right and what is wrong. This is with regard to my trip to the UK for my masters in International Journalism. If i was going there in 2000 or something, i might not have faced this dilemma. The one thing that i have noticed is that Globalization, for whatever we have read is a farce. For, it is observd that the 'Liberal West' is tending to furthur isolate itself in this global village. Conservatism and emphasis on the Sons of the Soil are making their presence felt in that part of the world.
Fear is built up among people who go there that they will be treated as Second Class Citizens. A report today about the plight of Asian Americans getting shunned in the field of Music adds to the fear. The fact of the matter is that the Stereotype is dominating the psyche of the people in the West about people from the East. In the UK, the place where i am going, i might also be a victim of this stereotype. Today, in order to save the native population from being Jobless, the Migrants are shunned. These migrants, to which these forward nations promise the sky, are bought down to earth and shunned. I might, hopefuly not, be part of this.
I am being accused by my close ones, that I am taking things for Granted. I go in with an attitude that things might be wonderful there. But, they do not seem to understand, that I do not expect a better life there. I am only going there with Optimism that things can be a little better. But, the writing is on the wall. To expect a better life away from your own house, is a Dream. For me, being Optimistic is my only tool for survival, and i hope that i am not wrong at least on this front.
Sunday, March 4, 2007
Futility of War
Today, a Tamil film had a profound effect on me. "Kannathil Mutthamittal", in english meaning a Kiss on the Cheek, gives an idea about the effects of War on people. The backdrop to this film is about the conflict that is going on in Sri Lanka, between the Sri lankans and the minority Tamils. The effects of War and its futility was clearly evident tome. Before i go into the details, let me give the people a backdrop to the Sri Lankan conflict.
The ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka had largely taken the form of a demand for autonomy for the Tamil-speaking regions under an overall federal framework. The lack of results after twenty-five years of negotiations, and the perception amongst Tamils that the Sinhalese dominated government was unwilling to grant their wishes, led to a significant section of young Tamils, particularly in Jaffna, adopting a more radical position. They now favoured the use of violent means. A large number of militant organisations were set up, one of which was the Tamil New Tigers (TNT), formed in 1972 by a small group of young Tamils and university students led by Velupillai Prabhakaran. Many students joined the TNT thereafter because they believed that they were not given equality in the grading systems and admission to post-graduate schools.
The TNT's first military operation was the assassination of Alfred Duraiappah, the SLFP mayor of Jaffna, in 1975, followed by a few successful bank robberies to fund their activities and the assassination of a number of minor police officials. The success of these early acts gave them confidence, and in 1976 they teamed up with the militants headed by S. Subramanian to form the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. In 1979, the late Anton Balasingham joined the LTTE as their main ideologue. Balasingham added depth to the LTTE's politics. Whereas they had earlier been committed to the single idea of Tamil independence, Balasingham added a new layer of social policies, inspired by Marxism and anti-casteism, which profoundly shaped the LTTE's worldview.
The LTTE continued the TNT's campaign of low-intensity violence against state agents, particularly policemen, and quickly became the most efficient and ruthless of the many Tamil militant groups. In 1978, they wiped out a police patrol that had discovered one of their training camps, the first major military victory for a separatist Tamil group. After one such attack in July 1983, which killed 16 army soldiers, Sinhalese mobs took revenge in the event now called Black July, which saw the death of 1,000- 3,000 Tamils. Following this angry Tamil youths swelled the ranks of the LTTE seeking retribution for the violence. The intensifying conflict produced a steady stream of volunteers for the LTTE, which they shaped into a militia with the help of India's Research and Analysis Wing intelligence agency. In 1984, they began launching higher intensity attacks against Sri Lankan troops. The same year they also formed a naval unit, the Sea Tigers.
Talking about the film, it highlights the plight of the refugees that come in from the affected parts of Sri Lanka and into India. In that, one particular refugee woman gets pregnant and bears a child. Circumstances force her to abandon the child and go back to her strife torn village. The child is raised by someone else, and she grows up to be a fine girl. On her 9th Birthday, she is told about her background and from then on, the search for her real parents. During that search, the child sees the horrors of Wars and also the suffering of the people affected by War.
In the later part of the Movie, the main characters wonder as to why people are losing their humanity and adopting War. The examples, if loked at this decade alone, would involve Chechnya,Kashmir, Sri Lanka, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo, Israel-Palestine, and now Afghanistan and Iraq. Quoting from the movie, two reasons as to why this happens. The Arms Industry has now been well established and in order to thrive and consolidate, encourages War in most of the world. The Second Reason, is possibly, that in this age, Reasoning and Irrationality are dominant in the world.
The fact that so many Wars are taking place is proof of the last statement that i made. The fact that a Child is seperated from its mother is the one reason why i consider Wars futile. Lives are lost, country's are devastated and people's lives are scarred physically or mentally for a long time. Now, unfortunately, Wars are assuming the factor of Legitamacy. Following 9/11, the US has made War the ultimate weapon of Legitamacy, with Iran now on its target. The world is so dangerous now, that we can see more Children geting seperated from parents, and nations getting disillusioned with the so called factor of peace.
NOTE: THE SECOND THIRD PARAGRAPHS ARE FROM WIKIPEDIA. FULL CONTEXT OF THE SRI LANKAN CONFLICT CAN BE FOUND THERE
The ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka had largely taken the form of a demand for autonomy for the Tamil-speaking regions under an overall federal framework. The lack of results after twenty-five years of negotiations, and the perception amongst Tamils that the Sinhalese dominated government was unwilling to grant their wishes, led to a significant section of young Tamils, particularly in Jaffna, adopting a more radical position. They now favoured the use of violent means. A large number of militant organisations were set up, one of which was the Tamil New Tigers (TNT), formed in 1972 by a small group of young Tamils and university students led by Velupillai Prabhakaran. Many students joined the TNT thereafter because they believed that they were not given equality in the grading systems and admission to post-graduate schools.
The TNT's first military operation was the assassination of Alfred Duraiappah, the SLFP mayor of Jaffna, in 1975, followed by a few successful bank robberies to fund their activities and the assassination of a number of minor police officials. The success of these early acts gave them confidence, and in 1976 they teamed up with the militants headed by S. Subramanian to form the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam. In 1979, the late Anton Balasingham joined the LTTE as their main ideologue. Balasingham added depth to the LTTE's politics. Whereas they had earlier been committed to the single idea of Tamil independence, Balasingham added a new layer of social policies, inspired by Marxism and anti-casteism, which profoundly shaped the LTTE's worldview.
The LTTE continued the TNT's campaign of low-intensity violence against state agents, particularly policemen, and quickly became the most efficient and ruthless of the many Tamil militant groups. In 1978, they wiped out a police patrol that had discovered one of their training camps, the first major military victory for a separatist Tamil group. After one such attack in July 1983, which killed 16 army soldiers, Sinhalese mobs took revenge in the event now called Black July, which saw the death of 1,000- 3,000 Tamils. Following this angry Tamil youths swelled the ranks of the LTTE seeking retribution for the violence. The intensifying conflict produced a steady stream of volunteers for the LTTE, which they shaped into a militia with the help of India's Research and Analysis Wing intelligence agency. In 1984, they began launching higher intensity attacks against Sri Lankan troops. The same year they also formed a naval unit, the Sea Tigers.
Talking about the film, it highlights the plight of the refugees that come in from the affected parts of Sri Lanka and into India. In that, one particular refugee woman gets pregnant and bears a child. Circumstances force her to abandon the child and go back to her strife torn village. The child is raised by someone else, and she grows up to be a fine girl. On her 9th Birthday, she is told about her background and from then on, the search for her real parents. During that search, the child sees the horrors of Wars and also the suffering of the people affected by War.
In the later part of the Movie, the main characters wonder as to why people are losing their humanity and adopting War. The examples, if loked at this decade alone, would involve Chechnya,Kashmir, Sri Lanka, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Kosovo, Israel-Palestine, and now Afghanistan and Iraq. Quoting from the movie, two reasons as to why this happens. The Arms Industry has now been well established and in order to thrive and consolidate, encourages War in most of the world. The Second Reason, is possibly, that in this age, Reasoning and Irrationality are dominant in the world.
The fact that so many Wars are taking place is proof of the last statement that i made. The fact that a Child is seperated from its mother is the one reason why i consider Wars futile. Lives are lost, country's are devastated and people's lives are scarred physically or mentally for a long time. Now, unfortunately, Wars are assuming the factor of Legitamacy. Following 9/11, the US has made War the ultimate weapon of Legitamacy, with Iran now on its target. The world is so dangerous now, that we can see more Children geting seperated from parents, and nations getting disillusioned with the so called factor of peace.
NOTE: THE SECOND THIRD PARAGRAPHS ARE FROM WIKIPEDIA. FULL CONTEXT OF THE SRI LANKAN CONFLICT CAN BE FOUND THERE
Saturday, March 3, 2007
Holi: The Unholiest Time of the Year
The beginning of March is the most horrible time for me. The festival of Holi begins and continues to create havoc for 2 days. I must be thankful that Holi is celebrated only for 2 days, because the nuisance that is caused to most people makes me wonder as to why the festival has to celebrated. The festival of Holi is hence deemed Unholy, according to me.
The argument that i have against Holi is that it is a big nuisance for a lot of people. Any festival that causes grievances against people and also causes health complications should be banned. The kind of Colours that are used today, the kind of apparatus that is used against a person, the throwing of balloons filled with liquid and also the cardinal sin of wasting so much of Water is the reason why Holi should be banned. Not to mention the Water and Air Pollution that occurs during this festival.
Some Colours that are used for this so called Celebration are poisonous, and it leads to eye-loss. The respiratory disorders that come about can sometimes be life-threatening. Other than Eyes and Lungs, the Skin is also bound to suffer. Rashes and allergic reactions can damage and scar a person for a long time. The Balloons that are thrown from at a height can injure a person. If a balloon hits an elderly person on the head, he risks a concussion or a stroke. This is not a festival, but rather a destructive element out to torment people.
In India, no festival here is celebrated in the right sense. Majority of the Indians do not celebrate a festival the way it should be. Rather, many people are affected by this festival, and thus the joyousness is lost. The same is true also for Diwali, but that elaboration will be in done in some other post. The mentality of the Indian Public needs to change, because they are causing hardships to the people in the guise of a festival, and that is indeed harmful. But, people continue to remain silent, and this is one thing why the country can move forward. If Citizens speak up for the hardships that any event causes them, then things can get better. But, already, this year is wasted, because as i write this, the unholy method of celebrating this festival is on in full swing.
The Festival of Colours is never going to be colourful for me, because it causes hardships to many people. The shameful wastage and pollution of resources like Water will make this festival a waste of time. Inspite of these two pressing issues, the people who are affected will remain silent. I guess in a country like ours, Hardships and Silence go hand in Hand.
The argument that i have against Holi is that it is a big nuisance for a lot of people. Any festival that causes grievances against people and also causes health complications should be banned. The kind of Colours that are used today, the kind of apparatus that is used against a person, the throwing of balloons filled with liquid and also the cardinal sin of wasting so much of Water is the reason why Holi should be banned. Not to mention the Water and Air Pollution that occurs during this festival.
Some Colours that are used for this so called Celebration are poisonous, and it leads to eye-loss. The respiratory disorders that come about can sometimes be life-threatening. Other than Eyes and Lungs, the Skin is also bound to suffer. Rashes and allergic reactions can damage and scar a person for a long time. The Balloons that are thrown from at a height can injure a person. If a balloon hits an elderly person on the head, he risks a concussion or a stroke. This is not a festival, but rather a destructive element out to torment people.
In India, no festival here is celebrated in the right sense. Majority of the Indians do not celebrate a festival the way it should be. Rather, many people are affected by this festival, and thus the joyousness is lost. The same is true also for Diwali, but that elaboration will be in done in some other post. The mentality of the Indian Public needs to change, because they are causing hardships to the people in the guise of a festival, and that is indeed harmful. But, people continue to remain silent, and this is one thing why the country can move forward. If Citizens speak up for the hardships that any event causes them, then things can get better. But, already, this year is wasted, because as i write this, the unholy method of celebrating this festival is on in full swing.
The Festival of Colours is never going to be colourful for me, because it causes hardships to many people. The shameful wastage and pollution of resources like Water will make this festival a waste of time. Inspite of these two pressing issues, the people who are affected will remain silent. I guess in a country like ours, Hardships and Silence go hand in Hand.
Friday, March 2, 2007
The Poem of a Mumbaikar
I have been in Mumbai for the past 18 years of my life, and when i was young i admired the city for its vibrance and its way of life. All the time there was something or the other to do in this city of Lights. Now, after being in Bhopal for 5 years, perceptions of mine have changed. I look at the city in a different light. Here's what i see of Mumbai as it is now:
Songs are sung about Mumbai,
Mumbai is my life and we are Mumbaikars,
the city indeed is vibrant,
the people are busy and always involved,
but there are problems underneath,
and suddenly mumbai is not what
I imagine when i was a kid.
The city is known as the City of Lights,
but it is burdened with powercuts.
Some parts have power everytime,
but others face no power for almost the whole day
So, Mumbai is not what i imagined
When i was a kid.
The City is the Dream city for millions,
but it is a nightmare also.
People flock into the city in millions,
and for them the dreams are nightmares.
Where some dream of a good life,
there is nothing but poverty and slums.
So, Mumbai is not what i imagined,
When i was a kid.
The City is one big opportunity in itself,
but yet so many miss out on this dream.
The rich get richer and also more fanicer,
the poor get poorer and also negligence.
Dreams are slowly disintegrating into nightmares,
and Mumbai is not what i imagined,
When i was a kid.
Families make money to provide them with security,
but socially and inwardly, they grow more apart.
Money and not common sense is the order of the day,
and relationships are caught up under the grasp of money and ambition.
So, Mumbai is not what i imagined,
When i was a Kid.
But, Mumbai is Mumbai.
The city survives because people here have big hearts.
They still might consider the world outside mumbai as irrelevant,
for they know that their soul and essence is connected to the city.
For the majority of its flaws, there is something about Mumbai.
So, Mumbai will continue to thrill my imagination, just as it did when i was a Kid
Songs are sung about Mumbai,
Mumbai is my life and we are Mumbaikars,
the city indeed is vibrant,
the people are busy and always involved,
but there are problems underneath,
and suddenly mumbai is not what
I imagine when i was a kid.
The city is known as the City of Lights,
but it is burdened with powercuts.
Some parts have power everytime,
but others face no power for almost the whole day
So, Mumbai is not what i imagined
When i was a kid.
The City is the Dream city for millions,
but it is a nightmare also.
People flock into the city in millions,
and for them the dreams are nightmares.
Where some dream of a good life,
there is nothing but poverty and slums.
So, Mumbai is not what i imagined,
When i was a kid.
The City is one big opportunity in itself,
but yet so many miss out on this dream.
The rich get richer and also more fanicer,
the poor get poorer and also negligence.
Dreams are slowly disintegrating into nightmares,
and Mumbai is not what i imagined,
When i was a kid.
Families make money to provide them with security,
but socially and inwardly, they grow more apart.
Money and not common sense is the order of the day,
and relationships are caught up under the grasp of money and ambition.
So, Mumbai is not what i imagined,
When i was a Kid.
But, Mumbai is Mumbai.
The city survives because people here have big hearts.
They still might consider the world outside mumbai as irrelevant,
for they know that their soul and essence is connected to the city.
For the majority of its flaws, there is something about Mumbai.
So, Mumbai will continue to thrill my imagination, just as it did when i was a Kid
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