Sunday, April 4, 2010
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
My Last Page Blog 10/03/2010 Contradiction gives emphasis
SOCIETY
“Man proposes and God Disposes”
It is said ‘Man proposes and God disposes’. In a complicated modern society, it should be understood that more than 50 percent of the man’s actions and plans are governed by the external factors, and fate or God is nothing to do with it. God is not taking the responsibilities of man, and devising plans for him. By nature, man is under the impression that he is the centre of the world, and the world revolves around him. This impression is enforced in a family, when he is constantly criticized, advised or protected within the family. The world cares little about a particular individual, and has no time for it. Neither his success nor failure is the talk of the town. The success, failure, happiness or sorrow is the state of his mind, and there is no 50 percent share for the external factors.
An individual is expected to observe the world and structure his activities in tune with the environment. Religious concepts serve as a reference to the society. Religious guidelines or scriptures reflect a sort of common minimum expectation, the rules applicable to all, for the efficient functioning of the society; that is all.
Analyze the causes & Redefine your strategies
Being blind to the factors governing success or failure in life and depending too much on fate, luck or God’s will, people do not take the following points into account.
1. Analysis of factors leading to the failure or success in life
2. Lack of initiative to explore alternative ideas to overcome the failure
3. Consolidating the gains of success for growth and development
4. Coming to conclusions without any basis, logic or reasoning
5. Repeating the mistakes endlessly due to lack of analysis (Pt.1)
6. Indifferent approach to life on account of failure
Contradiction gives emphasis
It is true that 50 percent of the man’s actions and plans are governed by the external factors. But, do remember that you are left with 50 percent! Thomas Alva Edison failed a number of times before inventing ‘filament lamp’. When commented upon the results, he quipped, “Results! Why, man, I have gotten a lot of results. I know several thousand things that won't work“.
“I never did anything by accident, nor did any of my inventions come by accident; they came by work” - Thomas A. Edison
Is it contradictory, that he also said, “I never did a day's work in my life, it was all fun,” and “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.”
RELIGION, SOCIETY AND GOVERNMENT
Imbalances among the societies
In the last chapter we discussed about imbalances within the societies. Imbalances among the societies, and its nature, causes and effects have international implications.
All societies of the world are interlinked by science, technology and business. The flexibility in a society is the backbone for its development and growth. The societies by nature are flexible, because human nature is flexible and adaptable to the changing conditions and circumstances. Rigidity portends extinction or neglect.
International Terrorism
Imbalances within a society create friction among the members that may lead to violence at times. Likewise, imbalances among the societies create tensions internationally. Terrorism is the byproduct of imbalances in the societies of the world. Many a times, it is nothing to do with religion or any noble cause. However, religion is conveniently used as there is little resistance to the misuse from the religious leaders or the leaders of the religious countries, to be precise, religious republics of the world.
Destroying public properties, demolishing buildings, manhandling and intimidating public etc. during strikes are good examples of violence without any purpose within the society. The purpose of strike pales against the atrocities committed in the name of strike. The government is threatened. When it is thoroughly probed, mostly it is found that few antisocial elements are responsible for such damages without any purpose, at the best, self centered, sometimes on perceived enmity or rumors without any basis. Internationally, it takes different forms. Unless the imbalances in the societies are narrowed down, terrorism will be perpetrated for ever. We do not mean disparities in societies on account of income levels or technology. Because, the reasons for these factors are understood, and there is no ambiguity. The rectification of these imbalances is the prerogative of the individuals.
Religions are not progressive
However, the imbalances arising out of the societies’ outlook and thinking is not easy to narrow down. The main cause for such imbalance is religion. Religion in general is not progressive. It is very slow to react to the changes in the environment. Progress is stifled in many countries due to the political structure or domination of religion over politics. The system of education has not been tuned to the developments and changes in the culture and society, which causes problems both locally and internationally.
Therefore, imbalances among the various societies under the current circumstances create frictions that threaten to pull apart the world. But, the fact that a society can be insulated from the world no longer on account of internet and the recent revolutions in media, especially social networks of this age, has been ignored or not given due consideration. The pace of acceleration in science and technology already overtook Alwyn Toffler’s predictions in his ‘Future Shock’.
The role of the developed countries
The conflicts arising out of interactions by a society with the world can’t be avoided unless the imbalances among the societies of the world are narrowed down for the sake of healthy existence of the world. Removal of imbalances within the society is a pre requisite for the removal of imbalances among the societies of the world. It is only the logical consequence and will take place on its own without any efforts on the part of the societies. Therefore, it should be realized that the removal of imbalances within all the societies of the world is very important, because no society can be excluded in the process for any reason. It should be understood beyond any doubt that it does not mean that the task is on the head of the respective societies, and the world has no role to play to correct the imbalances.
Responsibilities of the various groups
It is the overall responsibility of the world to help correct the imbalances in each and every society of the world. The developed societies have to take initiative in this direction. In fact many countries are precariously in need of such intervention by the world, as these governments are helpless to initiate any action either due to political structure or for fear of backlash due to inherent weakness. The educational institutions, professional bodies, social networks and United Nations have great roles to play and wake up to this challenge and evolve methods to educate the nations and start dialogue with the international communities.
However difficult it is, the reasoning will eventually bring the all the communities of the world into this fold. The societies with glaring imbalances would be the first victims of social unrest and anarchy, unless they want to become the first beneficiaries in this process. Of course, there will be resistance, as nobody will accept their weakness and always put up a brave face. They need to be convinced, and, no developed country can afford to escape this responsibility.
S. Pottanna
“Man proposes and God Disposes”
It is said ‘Man proposes and God disposes’. In a complicated modern society, it should be understood that more than 50 percent of the man’s actions and plans are governed by the external factors, and fate or God is nothing to do with it. God is not taking the responsibilities of man, and devising plans for him. By nature, man is under the impression that he is the centre of the world, and the world revolves around him. This impression is enforced in a family, when he is constantly criticized, advised or protected within the family. The world cares little about a particular individual, and has no time for it. Neither his success nor failure is the talk of the town. The success, failure, happiness or sorrow is the state of his mind, and there is no 50 percent share for the external factors.
An individual is expected to observe the world and structure his activities in tune with the environment. Religious concepts serve as a reference to the society. Religious guidelines or scriptures reflect a sort of common minimum expectation, the rules applicable to all, for the efficient functioning of the society; that is all.
Analyze the causes & Redefine your strategies
Being blind to the factors governing success or failure in life and depending too much on fate, luck or God’s will, people do not take the following points into account.
1. Analysis of factors leading to the failure or success in life
2. Lack of initiative to explore alternative ideas to overcome the failure
3. Consolidating the gains of success for growth and development
4. Coming to conclusions without any basis, logic or reasoning
5. Repeating the mistakes endlessly due to lack of analysis (Pt.1)
6. Indifferent approach to life on account of failure
Contradiction gives emphasis
It is true that 50 percent of the man’s actions and plans are governed by the external factors. But, do remember that you are left with 50 percent! Thomas Alva Edison failed a number of times before inventing ‘filament lamp’. When commented upon the results, he quipped, “Results! Why, man, I have gotten a lot of results. I know several thousand things that won't work“.
“I never did anything by accident, nor did any of my inventions come by accident; they came by work” - Thomas A. Edison
Is it contradictory, that he also said, “I never did a day's work in my life, it was all fun,” and “Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.”
RELIGION, SOCIETY AND GOVERNMENT
Imbalances among the societies
In the last chapter we discussed about imbalances within the societies. Imbalances among the societies, and its nature, causes and effects have international implications.
All societies of the world are interlinked by science, technology and business. The flexibility in a society is the backbone for its development and growth. The societies by nature are flexible, because human nature is flexible and adaptable to the changing conditions and circumstances. Rigidity portends extinction or neglect.
International Terrorism
Imbalances within a society create friction among the members that may lead to violence at times. Likewise, imbalances among the societies create tensions internationally. Terrorism is the byproduct of imbalances in the societies of the world. Many a times, it is nothing to do with religion or any noble cause. However, religion is conveniently used as there is little resistance to the misuse from the religious leaders or the leaders of the religious countries, to be precise, religious republics of the world.
Destroying public properties, demolishing buildings, manhandling and intimidating public etc. during strikes are good examples of violence without any purpose within the society. The purpose of strike pales against the atrocities committed in the name of strike. The government is threatened. When it is thoroughly probed, mostly it is found that few antisocial elements are responsible for such damages without any purpose, at the best, self centered, sometimes on perceived enmity or rumors without any basis. Internationally, it takes different forms. Unless the imbalances in the societies are narrowed down, terrorism will be perpetrated for ever. We do not mean disparities in societies on account of income levels or technology. Because, the reasons for these factors are understood, and there is no ambiguity. The rectification of these imbalances is the prerogative of the individuals.
Religions are not progressive
However, the imbalances arising out of the societies’ outlook and thinking is not easy to narrow down. The main cause for such imbalance is religion. Religion in general is not progressive. It is very slow to react to the changes in the environment. Progress is stifled in many countries due to the political structure or domination of religion over politics. The system of education has not been tuned to the developments and changes in the culture and society, which causes problems both locally and internationally.
Therefore, imbalances among the various societies under the current circumstances create frictions that threaten to pull apart the world. But, the fact that a society can be insulated from the world no longer on account of internet and the recent revolutions in media, especially social networks of this age, has been ignored or not given due consideration. The pace of acceleration in science and technology already overtook Alwyn Toffler’s predictions in his ‘Future Shock’.
The role of the developed countries
The conflicts arising out of interactions by a society with the world can’t be avoided unless the imbalances among the societies of the world are narrowed down for the sake of healthy existence of the world. Removal of imbalances within the society is a pre requisite for the removal of imbalances among the societies of the world. It is only the logical consequence and will take place on its own without any efforts on the part of the societies. Therefore, it should be realized that the removal of imbalances within all the societies of the world is very important, because no society can be excluded in the process for any reason. It should be understood beyond any doubt that it does not mean that the task is on the head of the respective societies, and the world has no role to play to correct the imbalances.
Responsibilities of the various groups
It is the overall responsibility of the world to help correct the imbalances in each and every society of the world. The developed societies have to take initiative in this direction. In fact many countries are precariously in need of such intervention by the world, as these governments are helpless to initiate any action either due to political structure or for fear of backlash due to inherent weakness. The educational institutions, professional bodies, social networks and United Nations have great roles to play and wake up to this challenge and evolve methods to educate the nations and start dialogue with the international communities.
However difficult it is, the reasoning will eventually bring the all the communities of the world into this fold. The societies with glaring imbalances would be the first victims of social unrest and anarchy, unless they want to become the first beneficiaries in this process. Of course, there will be resistance, as nobody will accept their weakness and always put up a brave face. They need to be convinced, and, no developed country can afford to escape this responsibility.
S. Pottanna
Monday, March 8, 2010
Women’s Reservation Bill: A mile stone in Indian history! My Last Page 08/03/2010 - Adjustments and readjustments in society
With the numbers in the Rajya Sabha decisively tilted in favour of the Women’s Reservation Bill, which is hanging fire for nearly a decade and a half now, India is all set to create history by moving forward with a law reserving 33 per cent of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and state Assemblies. This will, however, leave the ruling Congress-led United Progressive Alliance skating on thin ice for survival for the remaining four years of its term. Parties like the Samajwadis, Bahujan Samaj Party and Rashtriya Janata Dal, which provide crucial outside support to the government, are vehemently opposing the bill.
A bill amending the Constitution of India, as this one will, needs a special two-thirds majority for passage in each House of Parliament.
Calculations, adjustments and readjustments in society
There is calculation involved in every aspect of human life. Interpersonal relationships, business, social issues are all covered without exception. Seeing huge disparities in life, income, standard of living, technology levels and so on in the society makes you wonder whether the above statement has any meaning. Let us analyze case relevant to the point.
There is a shop not far from the main road, but inside a residential locality. The landlord of the shop wanted to raise the rent to Rs.5000/-, from Rs.1500/- per month citing the rent prevailing on the main road for a similar shop. When the shop owner resisted the hike he was evacuated by force. The shop remained closed for about 2 years as there were no takers, and eventually he got it fixed for a rent of Rs.3000/-. However, by that time, the rent for a similar shop commanded Rs.15000/-.
Same commodities like cigarettes, candies and beverages are sold in both the shops. In the shop at residential locality, the customers buy only one or two cigarettes at a time and the shop owner has to wait for an hour to sell a packet of cigarette. Whereas, a person traveling on main road drops in on the roadside shop, and buys a packet in a frequency of 15 minutes on an average. This is in addition to the normal retail sale of a cigarette or two, which is also brisk on main road. Now, we understand the reason for huge disparity in rent, and also in income.
The changes are irreversible
The ‘change’ brought about in a society is an endless process. On a long term basis, this is called evolution. For example, if the main road becomes ‘one-way’, the traffic is diverted on other road or it is closed to traffic due to other reasons, the earlier position gives way to recalculations or new calculations. There are many changes in society, with consequences in life that could not be wished away and are irreversible. The underlying factors of growth and changes in societies are multifarious. In many cases you can’t compute or quantify the effects. The changes are in accelerated phase and continuous. Happiness, satisfaction, peach, pleasure, etc. can only be compared and not computed.
The changes in society form the basis for changes in culture. Religion is only part of the culture, though it is important factor in any culture. Food, dress, arts, fashion, language, family system, political structure, racial mix, education level, income level, religion etc. are all the important factors influenced by the culture, and in turn influence the culture. But, the domination of one of the factors, religion, on human life and society without giving due regard to the changes in culture on account of other factors brings up rigidity in society. Like any other factor religion should also reflect the changes in society. Any resistance to change makes it misfit in the society. The equilibrium in the society is disturbed due to lack of flexibility, continuous adjustments and readjustments on the part of religion.
Adjustments and readjustments
Adjustments and readjustments taking place in a society are based on calculations. After weighing the pros and cons the society weighs the benefits against sacrifices. If the benefits outweigh the sacrifices, the societies slowly lean towards benefits and eventually embrace the changes by making adjustments for growth. If the calculations proved to be wrong, readjustments take place. The frictions arising out of lack of flexibility on the part of religion or religions cause unrest and resentment in the society. When silenced in the name of religion, scriptures and tradition, it leads to ‘disguise’ among the members of the society and makes their integrity questionable. This slippage is justified on account of injustice meted out to the society in the name of religion. The relevance of religion eventually diminishes over a period of time due to impractical and inconvenient theories imposed on the society. The religion, scriptures and tradition were shaped up over a period of time based on the needs of the society. Society is not a slave to tradition. Where there is growth, there is change. By reverse logic, if the change is not accepted, society stops growing. Nothing is permanent in this world except ‘Change’.
Religion is a part of the society and can’t override society
In view of the above realities, it should be understood, “religion is a part of the society and it is inside the society, and not bigger than the society or Government.” The argument “the religion is bigger than the society and there are no borders to religion as it is practiced throughout the world” is unfounded.
You are working in a company, say, as an Accountant. Within the four walls of your house you are the Chief. Others are not superior to you in your house. When the Manager of your company visits your house, he does not become your boss in your house. He can’t dictate terms to you n your personal life.
Religious authority
Therefore it goes without saying that the religious authority has its limits. What is good to one country may not be good to another country. Food, dress, fashion etc. can not be same for a country in arctic region and another tropical country, and hence the customs, culture and religious practices even within the same religion. Religious yard sticks should not be used indiscriminately.
The argument advanced above is to make an impression that religion has only subordinate role in a society. It is bound to undergo changes. Already, there are lot of imbalances in growth between religions and the other underlying factors of culture in the society. The society can’t be forced to resist changes for a long time. The revolutions and evolutions happened in the world can not be undone. The religions can’t be standstill for centuries without changes. Therefore, it is for the religious leaders to introspect into its structure and philosophy. It is essential for the benefit of religion also.
Religious extremism
Religious extremism is the products of religious intolerance. If imbalance within the society is a cause for concern, imbalances among the societies take dangerous proportion in the world. Imbalances within society combined with imbalances among the societies in the world are the challenges that mankind faces today. Therefore, it is imperative, action at national and international levels are very important to combat the evils of fundamentalism and religious extremism.
Pottanna
A bill amending the Constitution of India, as this one will, needs a special two-thirds majority for passage in each House of Parliament.
Calculations, adjustments and readjustments in society
There is calculation involved in every aspect of human life. Interpersonal relationships, business, social issues are all covered without exception. Seeing huge disparities in life, income, standard of living, technology levels and so on in the society makes you wonder whether the above statement has any meaning. Let us analyze case relevant to the point.
There is a shop not far from the main road, but inside a residential locality. The landlord of the shop wanted to raise the rent to Rs.5000/-, from Rs.1500/- per month citing the rent prevailing on the main road for a similar shop. When the shop owner resisted the hike he was evacuated by force. The shop remained closed for about 2 years as there were no takers, and eventually he got it fixed for a rent of Rs.3000/-. However, by that time, the rent for a similar shop commanded Rs.15000/-.
Same commodities like cigarettes, candies and beverages are sold in both the shops. In the shop at residential locality, the customers buy only one or two cigarettes at a time and the shop owner has to wait for an hour to sell a packet of cigarette. Whereas, a person traveling on main road drops in on the roadside shop, and buys a packet in a frequency of 15 minutes on an average. This is in addition to the normal retail sale of a cigarette or two, which is also brisk on main road. Now, we understand the reason for huge disparity in rent, and also in income.
The changes are irreversible
The ‘change’ brought about in a society is an endless process. On a long term basis, this is called evolution. For example, if the main road becomes ‘one-way’, the traffic is diverted on other road or it is closed to traffic due to other reasons, the earlier position gives way to recalculations or new calculations. There are many changes in society, with consequences in life that could not be wished away and are irreversible. The underlying factors of growth and changes in societies are multifarious. In many cases you can’t compute or quantify the effects. The changes are in accelerated phase and continuous. Happiness, satisfaction, peach, pleasure, etc. can only be compared and not computed.
The changes in society form the basis for changes in culture. Religion is only part of the culture, though it is important factor in any culture. Food, dress, arts, fashion, language, family system, political structure, racial mix, education level, income level, religion etc. are all the important factors influenced by the culture, and in turn influence the culture. But, the domination of one of the factors, religion, on human life and society without giving due regard to the changes in culture on account of other factors brings up rigidity in society. Like any other factor religion should also reflect the changes in society. Any resistance to change makes it misfit in the society. The equilibrium in the society is disturbed due to lack of flexibility, continuous adjustments and readjustments on the part of religion.
Adjustments and readjustments
Adjustments and readjustments taking place in a society are based on calculations. After weighing the pros and cons the society weighs the benefits against sacrifices. If the benefits outweigh the sacrifices, the societies slowly lean towards benefits and eventually embrace the changes by making adjustments for growth. If the calculations proved to be wrong, readjustments take place. The frictions arising out of lack of flexibility on the part of religion or religions cause unrest and resentment in the society. When silenced in the name of religion, scriptures and tradition, it leads to ‘disguise’ among the members of the society and makes their integrity questionable. This slippage is justified on account of injustice meted out to the society in the name of religion. The relevance of religion eventually diminishes over a period of time due to impractical and inconvenient theories imposed on the society. The religion, scriptures and tradition were shaped up over a period of time based on the needs of the society. Society is not a slave to tradition. Where there is growth, there is change. By reverse logic, if the change is not accepted, society stops growing. Nothing is permanent in this world except ‘Change’.
Religion is a part of the society and can’t override society
In view of the above realities, it should be understood, “religion is a part of the society and it is inside the society, and not bigger than the society or Government.” The argument “the religion is bigger than the society and there are no borders to religion as it is practiced throughout the world” is unfounded.
You are working in a company, say, as an Accountant. Within the four walls of your house you are the Chief. Others are not superior to you in your house. When the Manager of your company visits your house, he does not become your boss in your house. He can’t dictate terms to you n your personal life.
Religious authority
Therefore it goes without saying that the religious authority has its limits. What is good to one country may not be good to another country. Food, dress, fashion etc. can not be same for a country in arctic region and another tropical country, and hence the customs, culture and religious practices even within the same religion. Religious yard sticks should not be used indiscriminately.
The argument advanced above is to make an impression that religion has only subordinate role in a society. It is bound to undergo changes. Already, there are lot of imbalances in growth between religions and the other underlying factors of culture in the society. The society can’t be forced to resist changes for a long time. The revolutions and evolutions happened in the world can not be undone. The religions can’t be standstill for centuries without changes. Therefore, it is for the religious leaders to introspect into its structure and philosophy. It is essential for the benefit of religion also.
Religious extremism
Religious extremism is the products of religious intolerance. If imbalance within the society is a cause for concern, imbalances among the societies take dangerous proportion in the world. Imbalances within society combined with imbalances among the societies in the world are the challenges that mankind faces today. Therefore, it is imperative, action at national and international levels are very important to combat the evils of fundamentalism and religious extremism.
Pottanna
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Consider giving respectability to the Indian Civilian Decoration Awards! - My Last Page Blog 25/02/2010
A tale of two events in the world related to India and erstwhile colonialism
1. Auction of Ganhi’s belongings
There was a big hue and cry in India and from the Indian Americans on the announcement of auction of Gandhi’s belongings in America.
Indian government had objected to the auction a few days back, "We will do everything to bring Gandhiji's belongings back," said Minister of State for External Affairs Anand Sharma. But there seems to be little that it has done to ensure Gandhi's items don't go under the hammer in New York on March 5.
Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has given a stay order on the auction of Gandhi's items in New York. (http://ibnlive.in.com, Mar 03, 2009)
There is an important point to be noted here. The Indians in general are proud of Gandhi, and justifiably so. It is a mark of Indian nationalism.
But, an important contribution made by Vijay Mallya has been ignored or not properly recognized in this context. Irrespective of his political leanings, the spirit with which he has acted in this issue is commendable. Vijay Mallya, former Rajya Sahba MP is a business magnet shrouded in controversies, and attracts attention in social life also, like a magnet, on account of his lavishness in parties, horse racing, his yacht apart from business that includes, breweries, airlines, leisure, engineering and so on. He also owns the Formula One team Force India, the Indian Premier League team Bangalore Royal Challengers, and the I-League team East Bengal football Club. The establishment of Mallya Hospital and Mallya Aditi International School speaks about his interests in human welfare.
Mallaya buys Gandhis belongings for 1.8 mn dollars
New York, Mar. 6 (ANI): Mahatma Gandhis five personal objects, including the iconic round eye glasses, were bought by Indian liquor baron VJ Mallya for 1.8 million dollars. The controversial auction has gone ahead in New York, despite protests from India, and the United States-based owner James Otis last-minute attempt to halt it. Finally, Gandhi’s belongings were bought by Indian businessman VJ Mallya for 1.8 million dollars, who said he was bidding for the country and plans to return them to Indian Government. Auctioned items included Gandhi’s iconic round glasses, a pocket watch, leather sandals, plate and bowl for sale….
Four years ago, in a bid to bring the Tipu Sultan sword back to India, Mallaya had coughed a whopping four crore ruppes to a London based auction house. (ANI) (http://www.thaindian.com March 6th, 2009)
He brought back the sword of Tipu Sulan to India from London. Now, considering the Indian Government’s efforts and the High Court’s stay order, question arises as to what the Government of India has done to honor its citizen for his efforts in restoring the belongings of Gandhi to India, leave alone the cost involved. It is an achievement that deserves appreciation.
Ganhi’s belongings have cultural value to India and the Minister of State for External Affairs Anand Sharma said "We will do everything to bring Gandhiji's belongings back." In spite of its efforts, the county failed in its mission. However, Mallya successfully finished the job, and it should be treated as the country’s victory.
Government of India may consider giving respectability to the Indian Civilian Decoration Awards, at least in this year by bestowing it on deserving personality like Mallya!
2. East India Company now has an Indian owner
With just around a month to go for the re-launch of the East India Company — the world’s first multinational whose forces once ruled much of the globe — its new Indian owner a Mumbai-born entrepreneur completed the process of buying the East India Company in 2005 from the “30 or 40” people who owned it….
With a $15-million investment, Mehta has not taken lightly. “Put yourself in my shoes for a moment: On a rational plane, when I bought the company I saw gold at the end of the rainbow,” he said. “But, at an emotional level as an Indian, when you think with your heart as I do, I had this huge feeling of redemption — this indescribable feeling of owning a company that once owned us.” Indo-Asian News Service (Dipankar De Sarkar, Hindustan Times, London, February 14, 2010)
But, we also wonder, why and how the British Government was indifferent to this ‘important deal with a long drawn process’, considering its historical and national importance.
However, it has to be honestly admitted that they are not really proud of their historical ‘colonization’ and the associated evils, in this modern world. They don’t want to pay any attention to preserve with zeal, the relics of those days connected with colonization.
However, for an Indian it is by no means a small achievement, and for India it is a very significant step in its history. We understand the feelings of Mehta. India, in its historical backdrop should understand his emotions.
This is an achievement for India, and it should be appreciated and recognized by the Government officially.
Pottanna
1. Auction of Ganhi’s belongings
There was a big hue and cry in India and from the Indian Americans on the announcement of auction of Gandhi’s belongings in America.
Indian government had objected to the auction a few days back, "We will do everything to bring Gandhiji's belongings back," said Minister of State for External Affairs Anand Sharma. But there seems to be little that it has done to ensure Gandhi's items don't go under the hammer in New York on March 5.
Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court has given a stay order on the auction of Gandhi's items in New York. (http://ibnlive.in.com, Mar 03, 2009)
There is an important point to be noted here. The Indians in general are proud of Gandhi, and justifiably so. It is a mark of Indian nationalism.
But, an important contribution made by Vijay Mallya has been ignored or not properly recognized in this context. Irrespective of his political leanings, the spirit with which he has acted in this issue is commendable. Vijay Mallya, former Rajya Sahba MP is a business magnet shrouded in controversies, and attracts attention in social life also, like a magnet, on account of his lavishness in parties, horse racing, his yacht apart from business that includes, breweries, airlines, leisure, engineering and so on. He also owns the Formula One team Force India, the Indian Premier League team Bangalore Royal Challengers, and the I-League team East Bengal football Club. The establishment of Mallya Hospital and Mallya Aditi International School speaks about his interests in human welfare.
Mallaya buys Gandhis belongings for 1.8 mn dollars
New York, Mar. 6 (ANI): Mahatma Gandhis five personal objects, including the iconic round eye glasses, were bought by Indian liquor baron VJ Mallya for 1.8 million dollars. The controversial auction has gone ahead in New York, despite protests from India, and the United States-based owner James Otis last-minute attempt to halt it. Finally, Gandhi’s belongings were bought by Indian businessman VJ Mallya for 1.8 million dollars, who said he was bidding for the country and plans to return them to Indian Government. Auctioned items included Gandhi’s iconic round glasses, a pocket watch, leather sandals, plate and bowl for sale….
Four years ago, in a bid to bring the Tipu Sultan sword back to India, Mallaya had coughed a whopping four crore ruppes to a London based auction house. (ANI) (http://www.thaindian.com March 6th, 2009)
He brought back the sword of Tipu Sulan to India from London. Now, considering the Indian Government’s efforts and the High Court’s stay order, question arises as to what the Government of India has done to honor its citizen for his efforts in restoring the belongings of Gandhi to India, leave alone the cost involved. It is an achievement that deserves appreciation.
Ganhi’s belongings have cultural value to India and the Minister of State for External Affairs Anand Sharma said "We will do everything to bring Gandhiji's belongings back." In spite of its efforts, the county failed in its mission. However, Mallya successfully finished the job, and it should be treated as the country’s victory.
Government of India may consider giving respectability to the Indian Civilian Decoration Awards, at least in this year by bestowing it on deserving personality like Mallya!
2. East India Company now has an Indian owner
With just around a month to go for the re-launch of the East India Company — the world’s first multinational whose forces once ruled much of the globe — its new Indian owner a Mumbai-born entrepreneur completed the process of buying the East India Company in 2005 from the “30 or 40” people who owned it….
With a $15-million investment, Mehta has not taken lightly. “Put yourself in my shoes for a moment: On a rational plane, when I bought the company I saw gold at the end of the rainbow,” he said. “But, at an emotional level as an Indian, when you think with your heart as I do, I had this huge feeling of redemption — this indescribable feeling of owning a company that once owned us.” Indo-Asian News Service (Dipankar De Sarkar, Hindustan Times, London, February 14, 2010)
But, we also wonder, why and how the British Government was indifferent to this ‘important deal with a long drawn process’, considering its historical and national importance.
However, it has to be honestly admitted that they are not really proud of their historical ‘colonization’ and the associated evils, in this modern world. They don’t want to pay any attention to preserve with zeal, the relics of those days connected with colonization.
However, for an Indian it is by no means a small achievement, and for India it is a very significant step in its history. We understand the feelings of Mehta. India, in its historical backdrop should understand his emotions.
This is an achievement for India, and it should be appreciated and recognized by the Government officially.
Pottanna
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Australia sees rising home-grown 'jihadist' threat - My Last Page Blog 24/02/2010: God, Government & Religion
Australia faces a rising threat from home-grown "violent jihadists", Prime Minister Kevin Rudd said on Tuesday, unveiling a counter-terrorism blueprint which increases security measures for visitors from 10 countries.
Rudd announced security improvements, including face-screening and finger-printing, to better monitor visitors from countries assessed as a serious security risk. He did not name the targeted countries.
The new biometric checks come amid heightened security concerns in Western countries following the failed attempt by a Nigerian man to bring down a commercial airliner bound for the United States on Christmas Day.
Rudd said recent counter-terrorism successes in Asia and elsewhere had been offset by the rise in the number of local groups inspired by radical Islam.
"Australia now faces an increased terrorist threat from people born or raised in Australia who take inspiration from violent jihadist narratives," Rudd told reporters. (Source: Indian Express Feb 23, 2010)
BJP on Sethu: Your trust is misplaced! Come down to earth!!
Do not expect people to jump into fire
People are not so much religious minded as the political and religious leaders believe who want to capitalize on the people’s sentiments. This is applicable to all societies in the world. People want to treat the religion as ‘fire’. They want to use it by going near the fire, if it is cold, but, only to the extent to keep them warm. Don’t expect them to jump into it.
Whether there are brokers to God or not they won’t give up their faith. Yes, they are trained to believe not by Mosques, Churches and Temples but by their parents as of now. They are opportunists like politicians and religious leaders; for that matter like any other fellow member of the society in general. They would like to keep away from fire when it is not cold, only to come back when they are bitten by the cold.
Factors like poverty, pain and depression bite them like cold. Many people who were atheists throughout their life develop faith when they are bed ridden. Without any company to share their grief and sorrow, they turn to warmth of God. The most severe pain is felt when one’s existence is ignored by the fellow human beings. Especially it descends on the people when they are aged. When people are ignored by their family, friends and the society, trampled under the feet of fate, even the most courageous atheists turn to God, at least temporarily when their mind is clouded in confusion.
Doubts in the minds
The faith is instilled in young minds in all the societies. It is not an instinct by birth, because a child by birth has no notion about God. Many people believe in God with a doubt lurking in their minds. Nevertheless, they believe in need of a God, but fashionably call themselves ‘Agnostics’. They don’t want any arguments over God, existent or non existent.
Therefore, the religions are alive not because of the religious leaders and their service to the religion. As long as there was no direct or indirect compulsion on the people to give up God as in the erstwhile USSR, the need for organized religion at the national level with vigorous programs and propaganda to protect the religion is very limited. Its role is restricted to the level of giving only guidance to the community, leaving the rest to the local communities.
Believing in God is one thing, and remaining faithful to the religion is a different thing. Do the people believe in God because of religion? Many peoples who believe in God pay no attention to religion. They are not atheists or agnostics. Let us not overestimate the influence of religions in human life, and religions are not at par with God.
BJP: Misfortune was due to miscalculations
Religious culture as it is perceived to exist in society by the religious and political leaders no longer exists in the world. Otherwise, if it is so, in India which is considered as a predominantly a religious country, the BJP would have come to power in the central government with thumping majority during the last elections. Their misfortune was due to their miscalculations.
Come down to earth
In spite of the severe drubbings in the last elections, the BJP has never learned a lesson. Their causes are linked to the God in heaven or the creation of God on the bottom of the ocean. Dear Babus, when are you going to come down from heavens or come out of ocean to earth and fight for the causes related to our society? Can we understand their logic in opposing the Sethu Samudram Canal Project that involves dredging a canal between Sri Lanka and India in the Indian Ocean to avoid sea travel around Sri Lanka?
The BJP has condemned the project on the grounds that Rama Sethu is considered the most ancient heritage of our country, and the UPA government in unabashedly proceeding with the implementation. The bridge said to have been constructed by Rama was drowned, and our Babus are protecting a drowned bridge in the name of religion and culture in the back drop of Sri Lankan campaign against the project. Whether there is evidence or not to this story, instead of convincing the religious leaders about the importance of the project to the nation, the BJP joined the religious forces and headed the opposition.
In the various parts of the world, the political structure prevents the rulers from understanding the real feelings of the people towards the religion and its oppressive and orthodox practices. If they are harping more and more on religion and putting unnecessary and unreasonable pressures on the people without understanding the ground realities, the pent up feelings would surely erupt as ‘revolution against religion’.
Change is inevitable
Change is inevitable in every field, be it religion or politics. Be warned. If the change is not accepted the religion would be neglected and loses its utility to the society. The leaders should also braze themselves not only for changes but also for continuous review of the system. The system properly and regularly overhauled will work for a longer time.
When the compulsion knocks at your door, the readjustment will be painful and it will accompany with the loss of values. The developed countries should enlist the support of the relatively advanced countries and United Nations Organization to spread the awareness. The less developed countries need some leads to pick up the thread, and the momentum will gather on its own thereafter. A series of conferences and meetings of the world leaders as in the case of ‘global warming’ or ‘WTO’ are the needs of the hour.
Pottanna
Rudd announced security improvements, including face-screening and finger-printing, to better monitor visitors from countries assessed as a serious security risk. He did not name the targeted countries.
The new biometric checks come amid heightened security concerns in Western countries following the failed attempt by a Nigerian man to bring down a commercial airliner bound for the United States on Christmas Day.
Rudd said recent counter-terrorism successes in Asia and elsewhere had been offset by the rise in the number of local groups inspired by radical Islam.
"Australia now faces an increased terrorist threat from people born or raised in Australia who take inspiration from violent jihadist narratives," Rudd told reporters. (Source: Indian Express Feb 23, 2010)
BJP on Sethu: Your trust is misplaced! Come down to earth!!
Do not expect people to jump into fire
People are not so much religious minded as the political and religious leaders believe who want to capitalize on the people’s sentiments. This is applicable to all societies in the world. People want to treat the religion as ‘fire’. They want to use it by going near the fire, if it is cold, but, only to the extent to keep them warm. Don’t expect them to jump into it.
Whether there are brokers to God or not they won’t give up their faith. Yes, they are trained to believe not by Mosques, Churches and Temples but by their parents as of now. They are opportunists like politicians and religious leaders; for that matter like any other fellow member of the society in general. They would like to keep away from fire when it is not cold, only to come back when they are bitten by the cold.
Factors like poverty, pain and depression bite them like cold. Many people who were atheists throughout their life develop faith when they are bed ridden. Without any company to share their grief and sorrow, they turn to warmth of God. The most severe pain is felt when one’s existence is ignored by the fellow human beings. Especially it descends on the people when they are aged. When people are ignored by their family, friends and the society, trampled under the feet of fate, even the most courageous atheists turn to God, at least temporarily when their mind is clouded in confusion.
Doubts in the minds
The faith is instilled in young minds in all the societies. It is not an instinct by birth, because a child by birth has no notion about God. Many people believe in God with a doubt lurking in their minds. Nevertheless, they believe in need of a God, but fashionably call themselves ‘Agnostics’. They don’t want any arguments over God, existent or non existent.
Therefore, the religions are alive not because of the religious leaders and their service to the religion. As long as there was no direct or indirect compulsion on the people to give up God as in the erstwhile USSR, the need for organized religion at the national level with vigorous programs and propaganda to protect the religion is very limited. Its role is restricted to the level of giving only guidance to the community, leaving the rest to the local communities.
Believing in God is one thing, and remaining faithful to the religion is a different thing. Do the people believe in God because of religion? Many peoples who believe in God pay no attention to religion. They are not atheists or agnostics. Let us not overestimate the influence of religions in human life, and religions are not at par with God.
BJP: Misfortune was due to miscalculations
Religious culture as it is perceived to exist in society by the religious and political leaders no longer exists in the world. Otherwise, if it is so, in India which is considered as a predominantly a religious country, the BJP would have come to power in the central government with thumping majority during the last elections. Their misfortune was due to their miscalculations.
Come down to earth
In spite of the severe drubbings in the last elections, the BJP has never learned a lesson. Their causes are linked to the God in heaven or the creation of God on the bottom of the ocean. Dear Babus, when are you going to come down from heavens or come out of ocean to earth and fight for the causes related to our society? Can we understand their logic in opposing the Sethu Samudram Canal Project that involves dredging a canal between Sri Lanka and India in the Indian Ocean to avoid sea travel around Sri Lanka?
The BJP has condemned the project on the grounds that Rama Sethu is considered the most ancient heritage of our country, and the UPA government in unabashedly proceeding with the implementation. The bridge said to have been constructed by Rama was drowned, and our Babus are protecting a drowned bridge in the name of religion and culture in the back drop of Sri Lankan campaign against the project. Whether there is evidence or not to this story, instead of convincing the religious leaders about the importance of the project to the nation, the BJP joined the religious forces and headed the opposition.
In the various parts of the world, the political structure prevents the rulers from understanding the real feelings of the people towards the religion and its oppressive and orthodox practices. If they are harping more and more on religion and putting unnecessary and unreasonable pressures on the people without understanding the ground realities, the pent up feelings would surely erupt as ‘revolution against religion’.
Change is inevitable
Change is inevitable in every field, be it religion or politics. Be warned. If the change is not accepted the religion would be neglected and loses its utility to the society. The leaders should also braze themselves not only for changes but also for continuous review of the system. The system properly and regularly overhauled will work for a longer time.
When the compulsion knocks at your door, the readjustment will be painful and it will accompany with the loss of values. The developed countries should enlist the support of the relatively advanced countries and United Nations Organization to spread the awareness. The less developed countries need some leads to pick up the thread, and the momentum will gather on its own thereafter. A series of conferences and meetings of the world leaders as in the case of ‘global warming’ or ‘WTO’ are the needs of the hour.
Pottanna
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Mysterious death: Body found in lake may be of missing CPM leader WR
My Last Page Blog/02/2010
Politics in Peace time is a pastime: Leadership Crisis in Religion
A body fished out from a lake on the outskirts of Chennai on February 13 could be that of senior CPM leader W R Varadarajan, who has been missing for the past 10 days.
While wife Saraswati has recognized the highly decomposed body as his, his sisters, son and some party leaders have expressed their doubts. The party has decided to wait for a confirmation, including DNA test, before officially announcing Varadarajan’s death.
Known to all as WR, Varadarajan was removed from the Central Committee of the CPM at a meeting in Kolkata earlier this month for undisclosed reasons. A few days later, he had walked out of his home in Chennai, leaving behind two letters that indicated he was going to end his life and that personal strife was behind his action. The letters directed that his body be donated for research and his personal belongings be given to the party.
Old-timers pointed out that Varadarajan’s was not the first case of suicide in the party — they recalled the tragic fate of leaders like Desraj Chaddha and Shailendra Shaily. “Nobody knew why they committed suicide,” they said. Shaily, a central committee member and secretary of the Madhya Pradesh state committee killed himself in 2001, while Chaddha committed suicide around two decades ago.
A chartered accountant, WR had joined the party in 1963 when he was an RBI employee. Proficient in both English and Hindi, Varadarajan was sent to Delhi as a CITU secretary in the late ‘90s. For the next eight years, he continued there, returning to Tamil Nadu as a Central Committee member of the CPM three years ago. (Source: Express news service, Feb 22, 2010)
Great leaders in history
The Greatest leaders emerged in the world when the societies were in crisis. These were the turning points in history. Their views were considered to be radical in those times. The most influential among such leaders are Jesus Christ, Prophet Mohammed and Buddha. Great personalities like MK Gandhi, Karl Marx, Mao Zedong, Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela, EV Ramasami dedicated their lives for liberation of the people in one way or the other and their names are etched in history.
The leaders in societies who worked hard for change in the society, but subsequently emerged as political leaders like Lenin, Nehru, Lincoln were also given high place in the history. But, the political leaders in general, however powerful, were relegated to the secondary place.
Religions’ glorious past
The most influential leaders were considered as radicals initially. They were all reformists. They questioned and condemned the customs and values of the society existed in the society and advocated reforms against all the odds. Their courage, conviction and achievements made them great. Their followers during their period had purpose in life and derived strength from them. There was purpose, conviction and courage.
Politics in peace times is a pastime
Party politics and power politics within the religion destroyed the edifice of the religions. There is no purpose, conviction or courage on the part of the leaders now. Flexibility and understanding is totally lacking. Debates or arguments are not tolerated. The rebels are shown the doors or silenced. The absence of any murmur in the institutions does not mean unity, neither it is healthy. The dissention is conspicuous by its absence. There is a smoke of suspicion pervading everywhere that portends revolution.
Unholy marriage of politics with religion
Politicians who derive support from religion can not peacefully rule the country. There are so many examples glaring from history. Politics in opposition combined with religion is worse. The cinema actors join politics. Advocates and others are joining politics. No problem. They can’t make it worse. But, jumping from religion to politics? Not good for the country. But, the route from politics to religion is alright if the politicians consider themselves more talented.
Leadership crisis in Religions
Talking atheism is not revolution. There are many books on religion questioning its beliefs, practices and domination in social life. Real revolution should arise out of religion from the religious leaders espousing the cause of reforms to keep pace with the development in science and technology and the impact of the same on culture.
Human Nature
The nature of the human beings irrespective of the religion or geography is not very different from each other in a broad sense. The basic instinct such as greed, fear & beliefs and basic needs such as food, recreation, sex, etc. are common to all. However, there are restrictions on factors such as food, liquor, fashion, recreation (cinema, drama, music, etc.) in various degrees in various societies. In other words the persons’ right to use, consume and enjoy these things in their life is restricted by birth. We should agree that the glaring differences in this regard should be narrowed down. We have to make a humble start for convergence of various societies on some common minimum requirement the people are entitled to, by birth in all the societies, leaving preferences to the individual’s choice.
Revolution
Efforts in this direction will make people understand the world better that helps reduce tension and frictions in social life and international relationships. The revolution in communication and media brought people together. There is no Socrates required to teach about questioning to find out the truth in the modern age. All the questions and answers are available in their finger tips, if there is will on their part to learn. Nobody can stop this process of learning, and consequently, revolution of a different nature initiated by the people, for a change this time, unless these issues are properly addressed now with top priority.
Are the religious leaders prepared to face the consequences? Should they not be equipped to deal with such a situation? In the event of revolution can anybody predict the turn of events? They should understand that the reforms can not be postponed endlessly as it is already delayed very much. If it is delayed further, the evils in the society will spread like cancer, and that is more dangerous to the society. Everybody should understand that the transition should be smooth to avoid violent consequences.
Pottanna
Politics in Peace time is a pastime: Leadership Crisis in Religion
A body fished out from a lake on the outskirts of Chennai on February 13 could be that of senior CPM leader W R Varadarajan, who has been missing for the past 10 days.
While wife Saraswati has recognized the highly decomposed body as his, his sisters, son and some party leaders have expressed their doubts. The party has decided to wait for a confirmation, including DNA test, before officially announcing Varadarajan’s death.
Known to all as WR, Varadarajan was removed from the Central Committee of the CPM at a meeting in Kolkata earlier this month for undisclosed reasons. A few days later, he had walked out of his home in Chennai, leaving behind two letters that indicated he was going to end his life and that personal strife was behind his action. The letters directed that his body be donated for research and his personal belongings be given to the party.
Old-timers pointed out that Varadarajan’s was not the first case of suicide in the party — they recalled the tragic fate of leaders like Desraj Chaddha and Shailendra Shaily. “Nobody knew why they committed suicide,” they said. Shaily, a central committee member and secretary of the Madhya Pradesh state committee killed himself in 2001, while Chaddha committed suicide around two decades ago.
A chartered accountant, WR had joined the party in 1963 when he was an RBI employee. Proficient in both English and Hindi, Varadarajan was sent to Delhi as a CITU secretary in the late ‘90s. For the next eight years, he continued there, returning to Tamil Nadu as a Central Committee member of the CPM three years ago. (Source: Express news service, Feb 22, 2010)
Great leaders in history
The Greatest leaders emerged in the world when the societies were in crisis. These were the turning points in history. Their views were considered to be radical in those times. The most influential among such leaders are Jesus Christ, Prophet Mohammed and Buddha. Great personalities like MK Gandhi, Karl Marx, Mao Zedong, Martin Luther King, Nelson Mandela, EV Ramasami dedicated their lives for liberation of the people in one way or the other and their names are etched in history.
The leaders in societies who worked hard for change in the society, but subsequently emerged as political leaders like Lenin, Nehru, Lincoln were also given high place in the history. But, the political leaders in general, however powerful, were relegated to the secondary place.
Religions’ glorious past
The most influential leaders were considered as radicals initially. They were all reformists. They questioned and condemned the customs and values of the society existed in the society and advocated reforms against all the odds. Their courage, conviction and achievements made them great. Their followers during their period had purpose in life and derived strength from them. There was purpose, conviction and courage.
Politics in peace times is a pastime
Party politics and power politics within the religion destroyed the edifice of the religions. There is no purpose, conviction or courage on the part of the leaders now. Flexibility and understanding is totally lacking. Debates or arguments are not tolerated. The rebels are shown the doors or silenced. The absence of any murmur in the institutions does not mean unity, neither it is healthy. The dissention is conspicuous by its absence. There is a smoke of suspicion pervading everywhere that portends revolution.
Unholy marriage of politics with religion
Politicians who derive support from religion can not peacefully rule the country. There are so many examples glaring from history. Politics in opposition combined with religion is worse. The cinema actors join politics. Advocates and others are joining politics. No problem. They can’t make it worse. But, jumping from religion to politics? Not good for the country. But, the route from politics to religion is alright if the politicians consider themselves more talented.
Leadership crisis in Religions
Talking atheism is not revolution. There are many books on religion questioning its beliefs, practices and domination in social life. Real revolution should arise out of religion from the religious leaders espousing the cause of reforms to keep pace with the development in science and technology and the impact of the same on culture.
Human Nature
The nature of the human beings irrespective of the religion or geography is not very different from each other in a broad sense. The basic instinct such as greed, fear & beliefs and basic needs such as food, recreation, sex, etc. are common to all. However, there are restrictions on factors such as food, liquor, fashion, recreation (cinema, drama, music, etc.) in various degrees in various societies. In other words the persons’ right to use, consume and enjoy these things in their life is restricted by birth. We should agree that the glaring differences in this regard should be narrowed down. We have to make a humble start for convergence of various societies on some common minimum requirement the people are entitled to, by birth in all the societies, leaving preferences to the individual’s choice.
Revolution
Efforts in this direction will make people understand the world better that helps reduce tension and frictions in social life and international relationships. The revolution in communication and media brought people together. There is no Socrates required to teach about questioning to find out the truth in the modern age. All the questions and answers are available in their finger tips, if there is will on their part to learn. Nobody can stop this process of learning, and consequently, revolution of a different nature initiated by the people, for a change this time, unless these issues are properly addressed now with top priority.
Are the religious leaders prepared to face the consequences? Should they not be equipped to deal with such a situation? In the event of revolution can anybody predict the turn of events? They should understand that the reforms can not be postponed endlessly as it is already delayed very much. If it is delayed further, the evils in the society will spread like cancer, and that is more dangerous to the society. Everybody should understand that the transition should be smooth to avoid violent consequences.
Pottanna
Monday, February 22, 2010
India condemns beheading of Sikhs, urges strict action
Eye of the Storm II - My Last Page Blog 22/02/2010
India condemns beheading of Sikhs, urges strict action
India on Monday condemned the killing of two Sikhs by Taliban in North-West province of Pakistan and said such "barbaric acts" will take "us back to the medieval times."
Though the minister described these Sikhs as "Indian nationals", the reports from Pakistan have been maintaining that they were locals living in that area.
An estimated 10,000 Sikhs lived in the NWFP and in the tribal belt, particularly Aurakzai Agency, till the Taliban imposed 'jiziya' or religious tax on them last year. Most members of the community then fled to cities across Pakistan.
- It doesn't matter whether he is Indian or Pakistani.
Anoushka case: Court asks cops to expedite forensic report
The chief metropolitan magistrate, Ms Kaveri Baweja, also issued notice to the special cell of the Delhi Police to file its response on the forensic examination report of the seized laptop of accused Junaid Khan by July 30.
Khan, who was accused of sending e-mails to Anoushka demanding $1,22,000 in return for the private photographs obtained after hacking her mail IDs, has been granted bail by the court on November 19.
A senior Home Ministry official had shot off a letter to the Delhi Police on August 8 on a complaint forwarded to him by Pt Ravi Shankar stating his daughter was being harassed and blackmailed on the material stolen from her emails and laptop and being asked huge money in return for the pictures.
EYE OF THE STORM II
We are in this world pitted against each other in the name of religion not because of following Ten Commandments or other tenets handed down by the Prophets and religious fathers. It is precisely by ignoring it, neglecting it, interpreting the principles in a self serving manner and abusing the scriptures, the social unrest has been escalated continuously through the years. When the humanity is moving toward anarchy with more and more speed, doubts about the usefulness of religion to the humanity arises. But, the religious stalwarts are clever. They may come out with a theory stating that the world would have been extinct by now but for the religions! We do believe it!!
All the religious wars, crusades, Jihads, etc. were in the name of religion, but, nothing to do with the principles as enunciated in the scriptures as no religion encouraged violence or religious intolerance. Simply put, they were not fought on religious causes, and it was a question of domination. The religions need not be followed by large number for them to be superior. Compact societies such as Marwadis, Sikhs, Zoroastrians, etc. have their own religion without any friction among themselves or other religions and brought about peace and welfare. Probably more and more religions should have sprouted in the world, as the choices now available are limited considering the diversities in humanity in terms of languages, climates, cultures and so on.
The Smallest Religion in India
The 'Meivazhi' minority religion was established by a Muslim. Lot of followers from other religions joined it. They wear turban like Sikhs. Meivazhi has its own Holy Scriptures that runs over 7 volumes and has its own prayer system and spiritual festivals. Allowing membership regardless of creed, Meivazhi's disciples are thousands of people belonging once to 69 different castes of different religions being united as one family of Meivazhi Religion. The people belong to other religions are neither friendly nor hostile towards this religion, and they pursue their own path without being a nuisance to the society.
Basic Philosophy in Life
Religion or no religion, the basic philosophy in life is, ‘you can’t claim only your belief is right, and, it overrides all other beliefs’. After all, it is ‘belief’. If this principle is respected by all the religions, atheists and agnostics 90% of the problems faced by the world would vanish. Again the religion itself had been founded by an intelligent person with foresight to impose his beliefs on the society, for the orderly growth and development of the society. Another important thing is that one should be willing to make adjustments with the society, if it is realized that the expectations arising out of his beliefs should be restricted for the common good.
This is the real sacrifice.
All religions talk high of sacrifice. The society should not hesitate to restore their position when the restrictions are no longer meaningful. It is a continuous process. What is good to-day may not be good to-morrow. What is applicable to me to-day may be applicable to you to-morrow, for change is the essence of life, and constant review is necessary.
“I want to speak to another man as a ‘Man’ no matter what is his religion. My belief is important to me. But, it need not necessarily be important in social life for a society. I am willing to reduce my expectations to the level accepted by the society or the government.” This should be the guiding principle of a member of any society.
If you want to derive political power out of religion, remember eventually you will fall a prey to it. It is for politicians, not for religious leaders! (for religious leaders it is a profession) That is history.
“Growing and shaving is unnecessary if you detest what the public rejects” – Thirukkural. To put it in simple words, ‘You need not attach too much importance to religion, if you are humane.’
Pottanna
India condemns beheading of Sikhs, urges strict action
India on Monday condemned the killing of two Sikhs by Taliban in North-West province of Pakistan and said such "barbaric acts" will take "us back to the medieval times."
Though the minister described these Sikhs as "Indian nationals", the reports from Pakistan have been maintaining that they were locals living in that area.
An estimated 10,000 Sikhs lived in the NWFP and in the tribal belt, particularly Aurakzai Agency, till the Taliban imposed 'jiziya' or religious tax on them last year. Most members of the community then fled to cities across Pakistan.
- It doesn't matter whether he is Indian or Pakistani.
Anoushka case: Court asks cops to expedite forensic report
The chief metropolitan magistrate, Ms Kaveri Baweja, also issued notice to the special cell of the Delhi Police to file its response on the forensic examination report of the seized laptop of accused Junaid Khan by July 30.
Khan, who was accused of sending e-mails to Anoushka demanding $1,22,000 in return for the private photographs obtained after hacking her mail IDs, has been granted bail by the court on November 19.
A senior Home Ministry official had shot off a letter to the Delhi Police on August 8 on a complaint forwarded to him by Pt Ravi Shankar stating his daughter was being harassed and blackmailed on the material stolen from her emails and laptop and being asked huge money in return for the pictures.
EYE OF THE STORM II
We are in this world pitted against each other in the name of religion not because of following Ten Commandments or other tenets handed down by the Prophets and religious fathers. It is precisely by ignoring it, neglecting it, interpreting the principles in a self serving manner and abusing the scriptures, the social unrest has been escalated continuously through the years. When the humanity is moving toward anarchy with more and more speed, doubts about the usefulness of religion to the humanity arises. But, the religious stalwarts are clever. They may come out with a theory stating that the world would have been extinct by now but for the religions! We do believe it!!
All the religious wars, crusades, Jihads, etc. were in the name of religion, but, nothing to do with the principles as enunciated in the scriptures as no religion encouraged violence or religious intolerance. Simply put, they were not fought on religious causes, and it was a question of domination. The religions need not be followed by large number for them to be superior. Compact societies such as Marwadis, Sikhs, Zoroastrians, etc. have their own religion without any friction among themselves or other religions and brought about peace and welfare. Probably more and more religions should have sprouted in the world, as the choices now available are limited considering the diversities in humanity in terms of languages, climates, cultures and so on.
The Smallest Religion in India
The 'Meivazhi' minority religion was established by a Muslim. Lot of followers from other religions joined it. They wear turban like Sikhs. Meivazhi has its own Holy Scriptures that runs over 7 volumes and has its own prayer system and spiritual festivals. Allowing membership regardless of creed, Meivazhi's disciples are thousands of people belonging once to 69 different castes of different religions being united as one family of Meivazhi Religion. The people belong to other religions are neither friendly nor hostile towards this religion, and they pursue their own path without being a nuisance to the society.
Basic Philosophy in Life
Religion or no religion, the basic philosophy in life is, ‘you can’t claim only your belief is right, and, it overrides all other beliefs’. After all, it is ‘belief’. If this principle is respected by all the religions, atheists and agnostics 90% of the problems faced by the world would vanish. Again the religion itself had been founded by an intelligent person with foresight to impose his beliefs on the society, for the orderly growth and development of the society. Another important thing is that one should be willing to make adjustments with the society, if it is realized that the expectations arising out of his beliefs should be restricted for the common good.
This is the real sacrifice.
All religions talk high of sacrifice. The society should not hesitate to restore their position when the restrictions are no longer meaningful. It is a continuous process. What is good to-day may not be good to-morrow. What is applicable to me to-day may be applicable to you to-morrow, for change is the essence of life, and constant review is necessary.
“I want to speak to another man as a ‘Man’ no matter what is his religion. My belief is important to me. But, it need not necessarily be important in social life for a society. I am willing to reduce my expectations to the level accepted by the society or the government.” This should be the guiding principle of a member of any society.
If you want to derive political power out of religion, remember eventually you will fall a prey to it. It is for politicians, not for religious leaders! (for religious leaders it is a profession) That is history.
“Growing and shaving is unnecessary if you detest what the public rejects” – Thirukkural. To put it in simple words, ‘You need not attach too much importance to religion, if you are humane.’
Pottanna
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