Yesterday I was reading Amartya Sen's "The Argumentative Indian - Writings on Indian Culture, History and Identity." The back cover of the book states, "India is a large and hugely diverse country with many distinct pursuits, vastly different convictions, widely divergent customs and a feast of viewpoints. In this landmark book Amartya Sen argues that only by exploring its long, pioneering tradition of skeptical argument and cultural achievement can we truly understand contemporary India's place in the world."
Sen expounds on "The problem of invoking the Ramayana to propagate a reductionist account of Hindu religiosity", and states that "The roots of skepticism in India go back to a long way, and it would be hard to understand the history of Indian culture if skepticism were to be jettisoned," quite contrary to some cultural theorists who "are particularly keen on showing the strength of the faith-based and unreasoning culture of India and the East, in contrast with the 'shallow rationalism' and scientific priorities of the West."
I became ever enthusiastic about setting out on a 'Pan-Indian' excursion and understand the true nature of this unfathomable society. I straightened up and ran my fingers through my hair that was almost covering my ears. "Negative", I thought scratching my cheek that had went unshaven for a month. If I lacked the energy to go to the barber's shop for over a month, which is a few yards across the road, a pan-Indian trip was out of charts.
Anyways, I dragged my feet to the barber, having nothing better to do in the sultry afternoon. He was lazing on the revolving chair alone, listening to Bhojpuri songs churned out endlessly by the Radio Jockeys. What a wastage of time, I thought. As if I were some intrusion in his private space, he reluctantly asked,"Whose hairstyle you wanna have?" Before I could come up with some suggestion, he said,"Not a chimpanzee's of course, which you already don," and tied a towel around my neck before I could protest. He actually detested me for never having my hair colored, something at which he claimed to be the best in town. After trimming my hair he jabbed at the radio and turned it off declaring,"Useless craps, these songs." Mood swing, I thought.
Then in a complacent baritone he reflected,"The Ramayana and the Mahabharata are so relevant even in these 'hi-fi' days." Hi-Fi, I thought, a term often misused as an alternative to futuristic, but which actually means High-Fidelity."The characters are so timeless," he continued,"take for example Prakash Karat and Sonia Gandhi. They are like Krishna and Radha, in deep love for each other, yet could never reconcile." Putting on a wry smile on my face I inwardly laughed at his naivete.
"Or you could take the 'classic' case of the politics behind the Partition of India. Nehru was the Arjuna for us, strong, brave and forthright, with Gandhiji as his mentor, just like Dronacharya. On the other hand, Jinnah can well be considered as Ekalavya. Both Jinnah and Nehru had the right to become the sole heir to independent India. But since Gandhiji had promised Nehru beforehand, he was obliged to hand over power to him alone. So he broke up India and asked Jinnah to be satisfied with half of it, akin to asking Ekalavya for his thumb."
I jumped up straight and tried to flee. The Congress and BJP party offices were not very far off, any eavesdropper overhearing our conversations could bring in Narendra Modi and Manmohan Singh scurrying to silence us once and for all.
I tried to save my dear life but he was adamant about pouring out all the highly philosophical thoughts that he considered to be of utmost importance to India and its future. He had finished trimming my hair and was now going to shave my beard. He remarked that Narendra Modi was actually considered evil during the Godhra riots, though he was only following his 'dharma' like Ravana. Who could ever disagree with someone wielding a sharp razor at the throat.
Eventually he gave a lengthy speech on how intertwined our society is with what the epics had suggested thousands of years ago, how there was a lesson in every nook and corner of the composition,etc. And my god , I was taken aback by his thorough knowledge and the way he drew parallels between the characters and events in the epics and present India. Shashi Tharoor would have hugged him hard before publishing his "The Great Indian Novel", had he known that there was another one like him, though quite unsophisticated.
There I was, an engineer having landed a job with a top Indian MNC, erudite and well-informed, gaping with admiration at this apparently oblivious and illiterate barber. He elaborated on so many issues that is shackling India's progress and brought up the ghosts of so many great thinkers of our times, digging out there scandalous lives and clandestine dealings, that if I were to write them out here, a national debate and censoring of my blog would follow. Though I may sound hilarious, he was correct in every sense. It reminds me of Amartya Sen when he quoted a villager's remark : "It is not very hard to silence us, but that is not because we cannot speak."
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Sun Sign
I don't believe in astrology as such, but often find it interesting when a person can be described by his Sun sign perfectly, though it's just prejudice that leads us down that path of superstition. I found the following description of the Sun sign Leo aptly describing atleast certain characteristics of my personality (though grossly digressed). I would be obliged to my readers if they care to comment on the truth of such descriptions and if they are at all aligned to my image in your eyes (A very good exercise I believe).
The Sun is your ruling planet, Leo. Of course the Sun is not really a planet; it is the centre of our solar system. And, as above, so below! You shine as brightly as the Golden globe because you reflect the characteristics of the heavenly body that rules your star sign!You too are a ball of dynamic energy. You are warm, bright and self-motivated, and you want to make an impression in everything you do — your work, your love life and your social life.
Because you are extremely generous, you expect others to be just as big-hearted. So when you see others holding back, you find it hard to not jump in and try to change that. You want to see everyone giving to the best of their ability. To other people, you can look like a bit of a tyrant, asking for more than they can give.
When you are feeling upbeat, you carry people away with your energy, and they love you for it. You love sharing your joys and successes with the people you love, and when you do, you are magnanimous — you never give a thought to getting anything in return. There are few star signs who really understand the nature of giving, but Leo seems to have perfected the art.
You also have a great sense of timing. When you offer a friendly word or gesture of encouragement, you pick the exact moment when it will have greatest impact. You always seem to be in the right place at the right time. You’re lucky this way.
Try to remember that your strong sense of self can be misinterpreted by others — understatement could sometimes be a more effective way for you to show your loyalty and express your generosity.
Some people think you are a show-off, but this too is a mistake. Your dramatic flair is part and parcel of your zest for life, your love of people and your optimism. For you, life is a stage on which you can perform and express your talents.
You may not be a performer on the entertainment stage, but Mick Jagger, a Leo, is, and he is a very good example of the strutting, egotistical nature of Leo. Mick exudes charisma, creativity and a personal style all his own. Not only that, but he has embedded his brand name as No. 1 in the rock industry, decade after decade. On the stage of life, you too will want to be No. 1, and to present yourself as someone special, with unique talents.
Loyalty is your trademark. People know you are a genuine friend who is always ready to lend a hand. Even if you can’t help someone with their specific problem, you still manage to send out a warm and reassuring vibration that makes them feel better.
On the other hand, you also have a need to ‘one-up’ others. A little more humility wouldn’t hurt. You will get plenty of praise and recognition for your energy and your self-motivation — you don’t need to big-note yourself. People will instantly recognise your abilities, and many will look up to you. Try not to let this go to your head; remind yourself occasionally to ‘get off your high horse’.
Leo’s totem is the lion, lord of the jungle — full of muscularity, grace and ferocity. This means that your physical appetites and general level of energy are extraordinarily high. You need to be physically mobile and fully engaged in meaningful work and social activities to feel good.
You are a born leader: people naturally gravitate to you, and look to you for guidance and security. This is especially true if you are born in the very first part of Leo - that is you're born between 24th July and 3rd August. At times you can seem a hard taskmaster, demanding excellence from them — this is just a reflection of your own actions, your own approach, but keep an eye out for it, and keep it under control.
Generally you have a pioneering spirit; this is connected to your desire to be the best. So while you could be quite happy with a life where you follow other people’s rules and regulations, mostly you’ll much prefer to blaze your own trail.
This means you will carve out your own niche and make a name for yourself. You’ll shine in almost everything you do, and will without a doubt make your mark in the world — you can reach the top of the ladder, no matter what field you choose.
Leo is the 5th sign of the Zodiac and is represented by the Lion. The Lion is a very apt symbol for Leos. Only something very proud and masculine like a lion would have correctly represented this sign. Leo is a masculine, or positive sign that is considered more aggressive, direct, assertive, and self-assured than feminine/negative signs.
Element: Fire
Leo is one of 3 fire signs in the Zodiac, all of which have the same basic characteristics. Fire signs are typically action-oriented, confident, passionate, and full of energy. It is the element of focus and prosperity. The other fire signs in the Zodiac that share these characteristics are Aries and Sagittarius.
Planet: The Sun
As the Sun puts forth light, so it brings forth life. This Planet (also known as a luminary and a star) represents the self, one's personality and ego, the spirit and what it is that makes the individual unique. It is our identity and our face to the world. The Sun also speaks to creative ability and the power of the individual to meet the challenges of everyday life.
Personality Trait: "I Will"
The Leo person is creative, generous, proud, fun-loving, dramatic, dignified, passionate, affectionate, ambitious, loves attention, noble, a leader, sunny, naive, magnetic, and powerful. They can also sometimes be bossy, jealous, patronizing, promiscuous, snobbish, egotistical, over self-conscious, and arrogant. Leos are ruled by their hearts and for them, love triumphs all. They are able to survive all of life’s stormy times with their charismatic and positive thinking.
In relationships, Leo commits for life. They are both devoted and faithful once they commit, however, once their trust is broken, Leos don’t forgive or forget. Even with long-term relationships that have lasted for years, once it is over, a Leo can leave and not look back. When a relationship is over for a Leo, it is over for good.
There are three levels of self-evolution for a Leo. Starting at a Lion Cub, being very immature and undeveloped, to a King of the Jungle, who is ruled by their ego but always protective of those they love. The last level is the Sphinx, who is wise beyond their years and great teachers to others. Regardless of the level they have attained, all Leos are leaders, adventurers, and trendsetters. Their true weakness is pride.
Leo Quick Facts
Symbol: The Lion
Element: Fire
Ruling Planet: The Sun
Birthstones: Ruby, Peridot
Colors: Gold, Red, Yellow, Orange
Gemstones: Amber, Topaz, Ruby, Diamond
Flowers: Marigold, Sunflower, Hops, Cowslip
Metals: Gold
Body: Heart
There's many a slip between the cup and the lips...................
I had sketched the lion on 16.10.2001 from an illustrative book by Leo Tolstoy.
The Sun is your ruling planet, Leo. Of course the Sun is not really a planet; it is the centre of our solar system. And, as above, so below! You shine as brightly as the Golden globe because you reflect the characteristics of the heavenly body that rules your star sign!You too are a ball of dynamic energy. You are warm, bright and self-motivated, and you want to make an impression in everything you do — your work, your love life and your social life.
Because you are extremely generous, you expect others to be just as big-hearted. So when you see others holding back, you find it hard to not jump in and try to change that. You want to see everyone giving to the best of their ability. To other people, you can look like a bit of a tyrant, asking for more than they can give.
When you are feeling upbeat, you carry people away with your energy, and they love you for it. You love sharing your joys and successes with the people you love, and when you do, you are magnanimous — you never give a thought to getting anything in return. There are few star signs who really understand the nature of giving, but Leo seems to have perfected the art.
You also have a great sense of timing. When you offer a friendly word or gesture of encouragement, you pick the exact moment when it will have greatest impact. You always seem to be in the right place at the right time. You’re lucky this way.
Try to remember that your strong sense of self can be misinterpreted by others — understatement could sometimes be a more effective way for you to show your loyalty and express your generosity.
Some people think you are a show-off, but this too is a mistake. Your dramatic flair is part and parcel of your zest for life, your love of people and your optimism. For you, life is a stage on which you can perform and express your talents.
You may not be a performer on the entertainment stage, but Mick Jagger, a Leo, is, and he is a very good example of the strutting, egotistical nature of Leo. Mick exudes charisma, creativity and a personal style all his own. Not only that, but he has embedded his brand name as No. 1 in the rock industry, decade after decade. On the stage of life, you too will want to be No. 1, and to present yourself as someone special, with unique talents.
Loyalty is your trademark. People know you are a genuine friend who is always ready to lend a hand. Even if you can’t help someone with their specific problem, you still manage to send out a warm and reassuring vibration that makes them feel better.
On the other hand, you also have a need to ‘one-up’ others. A little more humility wouldn’t hurt. You will get plenty of praise and recognition for your energy and your self-motivation — you don’t need to big-note yourself. People will instantly recognise your abilities, and many will look up to you. Try not to let this go to your head; remind yourself occasionally to ‘get off your high horse’.
Leo’s totem is the lion, lord of the jungle — full of muscularity, grace and ferocity. This means that your physical appetites and general level of energy are extraordinarily high. You need to be physically mobile and fully engaged in meaningful work and social activities to feel good.
You are a born leader: people naturally gravitate to you, and look to you for guidance and security. This is especially true if you are born in the very first part of Leo - that is you're born between 24th July and 3rd August. At times you can seem a hard taskmaster, demanding excellence from them — this is just a reflection of your own actions, your own approach, but keep an eye out for it, and keep it under control.
Generally you have a pioneering spirit; this is connected to your desire to be the best. So while you could be quite happy with a life where you follow other people’s rules and regulations, mostly you’ll much prefer to blaze your own trail.
This means you will carve out your own niche and make a name for yourself. You’ll shine in almost everything you do, and will without a doubt make your mark in the world — you can reach the top of the ladder, no matter what field you choose.
Leo is the 5th sign of the Zodiac and is represented by the Lion. The Lion is a very apt symbol for Leos. Only something very proud and masculine like a lion would have correctly represented this sign. Leo is a masculine, or positive sign that is considered more aggressive, direct, assertive, and self-assured than feminine/negative signs.
Element: Fire
Leo is one of 3 fire signs in the Zodiac, all of which have the same basic characteristics. Fire signs are typically action-oriented, confident, passionate, and full of energy. It is the element of focus and prosperity. The other fire signs in the Zodiac that share these characteristics are Aries and Sagittarius.
Planet: The Sun
As the Sun puts forth light, so it brings forth life. This Planet (also known as a luminary and a star) represents the self, one's personality and ego, the spirit and what it is that makes the individual unique. It is our identity and our face to the world. The Sun also speaks to creative ability and the power of the individual to meet the challenges of everyday life.
Personality Trait: "I Will"
The Leo person is creative, generous, proud, fun-loving, dramatic, dignified, passionate, affectionate, ambitious, loves attention, noble, a leader, sunny, naive, magnetic, and powerful. They can also sometimes be bossy, jealous, patronizing, promiscuous, snobbish, egotistical, over self-conscious, and arrogant. Leos are ruled by their hearts and for them, love triumphs all. They are able to survive all of life’s stormy times with their charismatic and positive thinking.
In relationships, Leo commits for life. They are both devoted and faithful once they commit, however, once their trust is broken, Leos don’t forgive or forget. Even with long-term relationships that have lasted for years, once it is over, a Leo can leave and not look back. When a relationship is over for a Leo, it is over for good.
There are three levels of self-evolution for a Leo. Starting at a Lion Cub, being very immature and undeveloped, to a King of the Jungle, who is ruled by their ego but always protective of those they love. The last level is the Sphinx, who is wise beyond their years and great teachers to others. Regardless of the level they have attained, all Leos are leaders, adventurers, and trendsetters. Their true weakness is pride.
Leo Quick Facts
Symbol: The Lion
Element: Fire
Ruling Planet: The Sun
Birthstones: Ruby, Peridot
Colors: Gold, Red, Yellow, Orange
Gemstones: Amber, Topaz, Ruby, Diamond
Flowers: Marigold, Sunflower, Hops, Cowslip
Metals: Gold
Body: Heart
There's many a slip between the cup and the lips...................
I had sketched the lion on 16.10.2001 from an illustrative book by Leo Tolstoy.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
The Other Side of the Coin
Every streak of light with it
And every moment gay,
Brings a piece of darkness concealed
To which earth and heaven sway.
Strange it is to say--on the Creator's lap
Both truth and fraud wailed,
Stranger it is to say that
Darkness never prevailed.
As often as you will kneel before God
And both your hands join,
Erebus will creep on you from behind--
That's the other side of the coin.
The term gay here refers to the original feelings of being "carefree", "happy", or "bright and showy".
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