अंतर्द्वंद

मेरी बातों से मुझे अच्छा मत समझना तुम
मैं थोड़ा सरफिरा, थोड़ा जुनूनी हूँ
किसी का दिल तोड़ के आया हूँ
किसी के इश्क़ का मैं खुनी हूँ ||
मुझे तो कुछ और ही करना था
अपने सपने के लिए लड़ना था
खुद से भाग रहा हूँ मैं मगर
एक अंतर्द्वंद से जूझ रहा
क्यों करता हूँ ये सब पूछ रहा ||
ये जो खुशियाँ मैंने पायी हैं
उसकी रहमत उस ही की भलाई हैं
क्यों कदम कदम हैं वो साथ मेरे
क्यों रखता हैं सर पर हाथ मेरे
मैं मंदिर मज्सिद से दूर बड़ा
इंसानियत ही हैं सिर्फ धर्म मेरा ||

दर्द

तेरे इश्क़ में जो मर जाते
तेरे इश्क़ में जो मर जाते
तो हम मजनू कहलाते
यह हम तो जी गए हैं
तो अपने नाम से भी गए हैं

जो अंधेरो में खो जाता हैं

वो अपनी आँखों से सपने देखते हैं,
वो मेरी आँखों से भी अपने सपने देखते हैं
और मैं सबके सपने को अपनी आँखों में जगह देता हूँ |
दर्द बस इतना हैं ऐ ज़िन्दगी, दर्द बस इतना सा ही तो हैं ज़िन्दगी कि...
मैंने भी आँखों में एक अपना सपना सजा के रखा था
जो चुप-चाप से अश्क़ बन कर बहता हैं कही
वो मेरी आँखों में मेरा एक सपना ही तो हैं,
जो रहता हैं दबा-सा, छुपा-सा कही,
एक सपना हैं मेरा अपना
जो कोई मेरी आँखों में नहीं देखता |

The Terrorist In You

ये यथा मां प्रपद्यन्ते तांस्तथैव भजाम्यहम् | 

मम वर्त्मानुवर्तन्ते मनुष्या: पार्थ सर्वश: ||

The heart-wrenching inhumanity of people being brutally killed across the globe has deeply affected me. I have witnessed the power of solidarity as individuals of diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, and religions unite in empathy and opposition to these heinous acts. However, a small faction exists that misuses religion as a cover to propagate hatred and animosity against humankind, and it is to these individuals that I wish to address my thoughts.

First and foremost, the same God who created one person is responsible for creating all. If you believe in and follow the path of a single divine entity, it follows that every human being, regardless of caste, color, creed, or religion, is a child of this one Supreme God. This belief leaves no room for taking another life in the name of religious or ideological differences. No God grants the authority to extinguish a life simply because it does not align with your personal principles.

Secondly, you are no judge of the mankind – He is. It is unfortunate that many of us are quick to harbor hatred when faced with tragedy, rather than offering prayers and support. We must remember that acts of evil have no connection to the divine.

Lastly, liberate yourself from the shackles of hatred. Hate clouds your judgment, corrupts your soul, and taints your heart, leading you astray from the path of righteousness. Once consumed by hate, you become indistinguishable from the very terrorists you condemn.

The world desperately needs advocates of love and peace, not agents of hate. Choose your path with wisdom and care.

If seeking a place in God's realm is my goal, I would much prefer to be a devoted follower than a perpetrator of terror.

बीती सुबह

कुछ बनने की चाह में मौसम यूँ गुजर गए

हम हम रह गए और ज़िन्दगी फ़ना हो गई |

~ . ~

ना सुबह की लालिमा देखी, ना रात की चांदनी

मैं जब जागा तो तपती धूप से मेरा सामना हो गया |

~ . ~

हर पल में जीना चाहा हर पल में ना जिया

सही और गलत की बंदिशों से जूझते वो लम्हा खो गया |

~ . ~

दौलत की चमक आज घर के कोने कोने में हैं

लोग कहते है मुझे मेरी मंज़िल मिल गयी

पर वो ये नहीं जानते की मेरा दिल खो गया |

~ . ~

How Faith Works...

Nov 16, 2014. After what felt like an eternity, I finally met Vyom again. I inquired about his absence, to which he casually replied, "Glad to be back."

"So, what brings you here today?" I pressed.

"I was searching for answers, and to find them, I needed to ask the right questions of the right person."

"Did you find the right person?"

"Yes, I did. My quest was a success."

"What were your questions?"

"There was one in particular: How can we continue to have faith in a world that increasingly challenges the belief in a God who created it?"

"And the answer..."

"'You must still keep faith,'" Vyom said. I expected him to elaborate, but he didn't.

"Tell me everything," I urged.

"That's all there is," he replied.

"I don't understand. I'm missing the connection here," I said, growing impatient.

He stood up and began walking. I followed, puzzled. We walked in silence for a mile or two before coming across an elderly vendor selling plastic items. He was leaning on a metal bar for support. Vyom stopped and turned to face the old man, whom he had initially ignored. As he approached him, I stood back and observed.

Vyom picked up two combs and asked for the price.

The old man, unable to speak, gestured twice with his hands to indicate ten.

Vyom handed him a five hundred bill. The man's trembling hands grasped it, and he began waving it toward Vyom for change.

"Keep it," Vyom told him.

As Vyom walked back to me, the old man stood still, staring up at the sky in disbelief. I was speechless.

"Faith," Vyom said as he approached me. "That's how it works."

The Battle Of Hopes

Tomorrow the result of the elections of World's largest democracy is to be announced. I've read that the celebration and the preparation has already begun in one camp NDA and the other camp UPA is seeking solace in oblivion.

Far from the politics and the two camps, this election saw the rise of the unlikely common man (Aam Aadmi), the mute spectator who for once rose from the silence and decided to break the shackles which has kept him bound for years. Six decades over but things remain the same from being tormented and looted by the outsiders now the country is been tormented and looted by the insiders.

The last decade has been the threshold. What worse could have happened to this country that didn't happen in the last decade? Terrorism, gang-rapes, riots, mega-scams, farmer suicides, all are the milestones of the last decade. Will the coming years bring any change? Somewhere in the heart this country does believe that "acche din aane wale hai".

This election was driven by a high wave of hope. At one end, there is an authoritarian, a politician, a projected figure who promised development, development, development. At the other end we have a common man, that's it, a common man. Both gave hopes. Hope is what was needed the most at this juncture. So tomorrow even though the common man might lose but the hope will survive.

And one day when this hope dies, the common man will rise again, this time to bring down the system and built a new one, to find the order in chaos, this time it would be you and me.

In the end though, I wish that the hope does not die this time...

Allah Ke Bande

This morning, social media and news outlets were buzzing with debates comparing Modi and Arvind. Kiran Bedi added fuel to the fire by openly endorsing Modi on Twitter, despite her previous claims of wanting to remain apolitical. While I still respect Bedi, I cannot comprehend her reasoning behind this statement.

Both Modi and Arvind share a goal of curbing corruption and working towards the betterment of India. Their ultimate aim may be the same, but they are walking entirely different paths. I encourage everyone to research and make an informed decision before supporting a political figure. This is not about idolizing individuals, but rather about the future of our nation, for which we all bear responsibility.

While Modi has welcomed controversial figures like Yeddyurappa and shared platforms with the likes of Bangaru Laxman, it's difficult to trust the BJP's promises. Examples of their leaders going back on pre-election commitments or being involved in corruption only raise more doubts.

On the other hand, Arvind has fulfilled his promises, and there are no tainted ministers in his party. While some may criticize his reliance on Congress support, it's important to remember that he was pressured into forming a government by both the BJP and Congress. We must prioritize the country over any individual.

As I was reflecting on these issues, I came across a heartbreaking news story: "Teen dies stopping suicide bomber at school in Pakistan" This 14-year-old boy, Aitazaz Hassan Bangash, sacrificed his life to save hundreds of his schoolmates in a country often criticized for harboring terrorists. Words cannot express the anguish his story evokes. Aitazaz, a forgotten hero, may now find peace in the embrace of the divine. May his soul rest in peace.

It's crucial to recognize that our indifference towards the world is what causes the most pain.

India - The Democratic Zombieland

http://indiagestao.blogspot.in/2013/07/feminismo.html - I regularly follow a blog that serves as a reflection of the India I inhabit. It acts as a mirror, constantly challenging me: am I doing enough?

Each day, I begin with prayers and the recitation of sacred mantras in search of tranquility. However, most days my prayers seem to go unanswered. Today, I was confronted with the news of IAS Durga Shakti Nagpal's suspension – the courageous woman who stood against land and sand mafias. An influential politician boasted about orchestrating her suspension within forty minutes under the guise of protecting secularism and religious harmony. The manner in which religion is exploited by the corrupt deeply troubles me, as it reveals the extent to which immoral actions can be justified in the name of God.

Moreover, another recent incident saw all political parties uniting against the Supreme Court's ruling to ban criminals from politics. Not one politician or political party has supported this decision. Are they driven by vested interests? What happened to the age-old concepts of justice, triumph of truth, and the defeat of evil? Were these merely myths, like the God we pray to? If so, what is the point of praying? Should I instead take up arms and seek to deliver the elusive justice that our society craves, even if it means becoming an outlaw or a terrorist, a threat to the very idea of democracy?

I've vented my frustrations for today, but the people in my world continue to stumble through life like the walking dead.

Government Sponsored Shelter For The Rapist

It took years of injustice and innumerable cases of rape for one incident to finally capture the public's attention. This time, people didn't need a leader to awaken them from their slumber; their repressed anger demanded an outlet. The voices that had been silenced for years coalesced into a collective outcry that could no longer be ignored or suppressed. This led to changes in the outdated laws on sexual offenses. The Justice Verma Panel identified "failure of governance" as the root cause of sexual crime, criticizing the government, police, and the public's apathy. It recommended significant changes. While many recommendations are commendable, the panel's stance on rapists remains too lenient.

The key points of contention include:

Rape offenders will face rigorous imprisonment of no less than seven years, potentially extending to life imprisonment.

Punishment for causing death or a persistent vegetative state will be rigorous imprisonment of no less than 20 years, potentially extending to life imprisonment.

Gang-rape will carry a punishment of no less than 20 years, potentially extending to life imprisonment.

Gang-rape followed by death will result in life imprisonment.

Firstly, why is there no capital punishment for rapists? Any unemployed, desperate individual could secure a permanent place to live, eat, and die if they commit rape. Should this be considered government-sponsored shelter for rapists? It's worth noting that this money comes from taxpayers. Imagine a family whose daughter has suffered such a horrendous crime, paying taxes to keep the criminal alive, potentially for life.

Secondly, why differentiate between rape, gang rape, and rape followed by murder? Rape is already a heinous crime deserving of the most severe punishment, yet the panel has divided the penalties based on the severity of the crime itself.

The Indian Judicial System deserves criticism for making rape appear like an opportunity or a blessing in disguise for the depraved and morally bankrupt.

The Marriage Of Convenience

My friend Rajush was approaching the prime age for marriage, and his parents were diligently searching for a suitable bride. I met him a week ago, and since then, I've been meaning to write this blog. This piece is not about a person, a family, or a tradition, but rather the society we live in. As I spoke with Rajush, I couldn't help but ponder the plight of a girl child in India. This plight is not limited to the girl child but extends to the entire society. Even in the context of marriage, a wonderful institution, some of the practices and traditions we've adopted or perpetuated over the ages are not just questionable but downright absurd.

Rajush was entering into an arranged marriage, and as simple as it sounds, it is indeed ARRANGED from the very beginning. Everything in this arrangement is taken into account. Every arrangement involves its own set of negotiations, and Rajush, being rather naive in these matters, felt disheartened by his experiences thus far. The most striking example was when the father of a prospective bride admitted that they weren't particularly well-off and wouldn't be able to provide much for their daughter, implying they couldn't afford a lavish wedding. I asked Rajush what was so surprising about that, and he responded, "The girl is an MBBS, MD, and a practicing doctor. Isn't the wealth of education that her father ensured for her enough? I can't help but wonder what real wealth is, and how much gold, silver, or money could compare to what he's given his daughter. Add to that the 'sanskar' (moral values) instilled in her, and you have the wealthiest person in the world. So why this talk of not being able to give much to their daughter?"

Rajush's response left me speechless.

I understand why the girl's father said what he said—it's a reflection of our current society. However, I'm still searching for answers as to why there is such a differential attitude towards girls. Why can't a girl, like a boy, support her family after marriage? Marriage is a mutual relationship with mutual bonds, so why aren't the responsibilities shared, both before and after?

"In today's world where religion marries religion and wealth marries wealth... Where can I find a match, as I am a human whose religion is mankind and love is the only wealth I possess?"

A Vain Effort

On November 12th, 2012, at 11:57 PM, Vyom's phone rang. He had gone upstairs to get some sleep, as he always made it a point to be home for Diwali, the most popular festival for many Indians. Some view it as the festival of lights, celebrating the triumph of good over evil, while others see it as a time to please Goddess Laxmi and seek a prosperous year. For Vyom, it was a time to reconnect with friends and family.

By the time he reached the phone, the ringing had stopped. He picked it up and was heading back to his room when it rang again. It was Gautam, a dear friend of his. Vyom wondered if Gautam was planning a prank for Diwali eve, but it seemed unlikely. He answered the call, and the urgency in Gautam's voice caught his attention. Gautam asked for Vyom's blood type, explaining that his friend's grandfather was critically ill and in need of blood. Vyom agreed to donate at 7 AM the next morning.

Within a minute, Gautam's friend, Manish, called Vyom and asked if he could donate immediately for a platelet transfusion. It was an emergency, and they couldn't wait until morning. Vyom hesitated but eventually agreed. He had donated blood a few times before, but this was a new experience for him.

After discussing the situation with Gautam, Vyom left his house without informing his family, fearing they would worry. Manish and his father picked Vyom up around 12:30 AM, and they drove to Chirayu Hospital in the city center. The lab technicians explained the platelet donation process to Vyom, and he was initially apprehensive about the size of the needles and the duration of the procedure. However, he overcame his fears and completed the donation.

While the platelets were being extracted, Vyom chatted with Manish and learned that the doctors had not been able to diagnose his grandfather's condition. Manish's family had spent a significant amount on medical expenses, putting a strain on their finances. Vyom hoped that his donation would help save Manish's grandfather, and perhaps a miracle would happen—it was, after all, Diwali.

Vyom returned home around 4 AM and went to bed, reflecting on the words of a friend living in the States: "What worth is the life of a man in India?" A couple of days later, Gautam informed Vyom that the doctors had given up, unable to determine the ailment, and advised the family to fulfill the man's last wish by taking him to his village.

Ye hai aaj ki Diwali jahan ek parivaar 15-20 hazar ke phatake jalata hai aur wo ye kabhi nahi sochte ki shayad unke ghar me kaam karne wala naukar saal ke 15-20 hazar hi kamata hai. Ussi me khata hai, jeeta hai, apne bachcho ko padata hai... khair in sabse humne kya lena, hamare paas hai paisa jalane ko hum jalayenge bhale hi hamare aankhon ke saamne log bhuke mar jaayenge. 
Anar ke rang, bomb ki awaaz jo maja dete hai, wo kisi gareeb ke khushi aur uski hasi kahan de paayegi. Kalyug me Diwali aisi hi manai jaayegi.

मुकाम

ये मेरा आखिरी मुकाम नहीं
आगे की राह आसान नहीं
लेकिन जीने की परवाह जो करते नहीं
मौत से जो डरते नहीं
उनके लिए कहा कोई सफ़र नामुमकिन रहा है
मैंने तो ना हटाकर मुमकिन को चुना है
अपने लिए तो जी ही रहा हूँ
एक दिन देश के लिए जीना है
दाग लगे है माँ के आँचल पर
उससे अपने लहूँ से धोना है...

मन्नतें

आज फिर तेरे दर पर खड़ा मैं
मन्नतें हज़ार ले कर
लेकिन तुझसे कुछ भी मांग न पाया

दी तुने ज़िन्दगी मुझे
मुझको तुने इंसान बनाया
धरती की गोद में पला बड़ा में
तेरी सृष्टि की रक्षा कर न पाया

आज फिर तेरे दर पर खड़ा मैं
हाथ जोड़े शीश झुकाए
क्षमा प्रार्थी हूँ मैं
लेकिन तुझसे क्षमा भी मांग न पाया

22-Sep-2012 @ Shirdi

From dusk to dawn

इस दुनिया को समझते समझते में बहुत चकरा गया
अपनों ने पराया कर दिया, परयो ने अपना लिया..
देखता हूँ की दुनिया कहा जा रही है,
एक मोह जाल में फसे जा रही है|
पैसे वालों की इस दुनिया में भगवान भी  बिकता है,
मंदिरों में भी vip का बोल-बाला चलता है|
मूरख है वो जो सबका मालिक एक समझता है,
अपनों से गले लगता है और गैरो से दूर से मिलता है|
वो गैर ही कभी इतना अपनापन दे जाते है,
जिस प्यार को अपने पैसो में तोल आते है,
जिस प्यार को अपने पैसो में तोल आते है...

Life is turning out to be a battle and right now I am scarred badly but then it too offers a night and the breeze that brings comfort to my burning scars. Love and affection are the most scarce things in this practical world, and love and affection is what I get unexpectedly from people who barely know me. I often wondered when something bad happened to me, that what have I done to deserve such fate but to that I had an answer too. To something which I never had an answer was what is there in me that the people love me for, what have I done to deserve their respect. To that I got an answer today, it's nothing in me that they love me for but it is they, the wonderful people of this world who became the part of my life by some luck of mine and enriched it with their presence.

Today I learned that how a small house can compensate for it's place by a big heart; why the poor stick together and the wealthy ones fall apart. No wonder none can sleep well on golden beds, while some can sleep even without even a mattress. There is a story to be told, a lot more to be said but I am so overwhelmed that I just cannot express...

भगवान नहीं दिखता

क्या हो गया है मुझे जो इस दुनिया में मुझे भगवान नहीं दिखता
त्यौहार मनाता हूँ लेकिन पूजता हूँ जिसे वो भगवान नहीं दिखता

घमंड दिखता है, अहम् दिखता है, लालच और लोभ दिखता है
झूठ दिखता है, बुराई दिखती है, क्रोध और काम में डूबा शैतान दिखता है
सच दिखता है, अच्छाई दिखती है, दया और दान करता इंसान दिखता है
क्या हो गया है मुझे जो इस दुनिया में मुझे सब दिखता है पर भगवान नहीं दिखता

कभी धुप से झुलसता, कभी ठण्ड से ठिठुरता,
कही बाढ़ में बहता, कही सूखे का मारा जीवन दिखता है
तम दिखता है, सितम दिखता है, आम इंसान का दर्द दिखता है
भूख से बिलखिलाता बचपन दिखता है, सड़क पर भटकता योवन दिखता है
क्या हो गया है मुझे जो इस दुनिया में मुझे सब दिखता है पर भगवान नहीं दिखता

कहते है की भगवान मन में है लेकिन जब मन देखता हूँ तो....
सब दिखता है, सब दिखता है लेकिन भगवान नहीं दिखता...

God is gone, we are on our own...

23rd March, 2012
There was a bustling atmosphere at the station; Mumbai is a city where everyone seems to be in a perpetual rush, and Vyom was no exception that day. He needed to catch a train to return home for a festival celebration. Just in the nick of time, he boarded the train and discovered someone had already occupied his reserved berth. An untidy man, likely a laborer, was sitting there, probably intending to enjoy the sleeper class luxury tonight at Vyom's expense.

"Excuse me, ye meri berth hai, S1 17", said Vyom.
"Par TC ne to bola 17 par baith jao, 100 rupaye bhi liye", the man said.
"Hmmm TC se check karna padega" said Vyom and he went looking for the TC in the other compartment.
"Sir ye S1 17 is my berth par waha koi baitha hai, bol raha hai ki aapne berth usse allocate kar diya".
"Nahi nahi kaun hai, usko bolo 18 par baithe, 18 khali hai", said the TC. "Ok" said Vyom and went back to his berth to announce, "bhaisahaab 17 mera hai, aapko 18 par baithna hai". The man took a moment before deciding to move and then left the seat murmuring, "TC paise bhi le liya, koi raseed bhi nahi diya, ab aise hi idhar udhar karte rahenge log". Vyom ignored his mumbling and arranged his luggage under the berth, took out his book and started reading.
The man started a formal discussion, "bhaisahaab aap kaha jaa rahe hai".
"Bhopal" said Vyom almost uninterested.
"Bhopal to bahut door hoga", asked the man.
Vyom realized that the inquiry is not going to be over soon, so he lowered his book and said, "kuch khaas nahi, 12 ghante me pahuch jaunga. Aur aap kaha jaa rahe hai."
"Main malegaon jaa raha hoon, ye train manmad tak jayegi phir waha se bus/taxi karke jaana padega to subah ke kuch 4-5 baaje waha pahuchunga" explained the man.
"Hmmm", an agreement from Vyom and he was back to his book.
"Veg biryani, chiken biryani, veg biryani...", shouted the vendor while crossing the compartment. The man was suddenly interested and called the vendor, "how much for chicken biryani?".
"Sau rupaye", quoted the vendor, handing the chicken biryani even without actually ordered.
"nahi nahi sau rupaye to bahut zyada hote hai, itne se biryani ke, rehne do".
The vendor gave the man a dirty look and moved on.
"Batau bhaisahaab itne se biryani ke sau rupaaye", the man complained to Vyom looking for agreement. Vyom lifted his face from the book, nodded and slipped back to the book. "Samosa, 15 rupaya, samosa", called another vendor. "Arre samosa wale, samosa de do", said the man who was now content about the price, the vendor gave him a plate with two samosas and a packet of sauce which the man refused. "Nahi chatni nahi chahiye", he said.
He then turned to offer Vyom, "lijiye samosa khayiye".
"Nahi nahi thanks main train ka khana nahi khata" Vyom declined feeling sheepish.
"Humko to khana padta hai, nahi to ab khana seedhe kal milega" said the man and ate the two samosas voraciously and followed by a litre of water. Vyom was watching this from the corner of his eye and he was suddenly a bit interested in the man and asked, "bus. Ab aap khana nahi khayenge".
"Nahi bhaisahaab, itne se raat kat jayegi aur subah kha lenge", said the man nonchalantly. By now the man got Vyom's full attention, he kept his book aside and began a conversation. "Kya kaam karte hai aap", inquired Vyom.
"ji mistri (plumber) hai, drivery bhi kar lete hai thodi, abhi ek mumbai ki company me kaam karte hai, din ke dau-teen sau (200-300) rupaye mil jaate hai" the man told and continued, "hamara ek chota bhai aur behen hai, abhi behen ke ghar jaa rahe hai, kal sham tak wapas nikal jayenge, chutti nahi milli hai phir somwar se kaam par jaana hai. (pause) Bhaisaab agar aapke phone me balance hai to ek call karna hai, ammi ko batana hai ki khana kha liya hai, wo fiqr karti hai". Vyom dialled the number and handed over the mobile to the man, "ji ammi khana kha liya hai, haan haan ab pahuch kar baat karenge aap fiqr na karo"
"Thank you bhaisaab" and he handed over the phone to Vyom.
Vyom sat thinking for a while and then moved pretending to call someone. He went to find the biryani vendor, it was already 10.45PM and the pantry was about to close, the vendors were having dinner when Vyom reached there and he requested one of them, "bhaiya thodi help chahiye, ye S1 me 20 berth number par ek aadmi hai, usko chicken biryani de dijiye aur ye lijiye 100 rupaye, usko bol dijiyega ki uske liye hai, usse paise mat lijiyega" and Vyom roamed around the berth pretending to be be talking to someone over the phone till the time the chicken biryani was offered to the man and he finished eating it. Then Vyom moved back to the berth and opened his bag to pull the covers for sleeping. When the men said, "Thank You bhaisaab, mera naam Yunus hai, Yunus Sheikh aur aapka?"
"Vyom" replied Vyom feeling bit awkward with the thanks.
"Aur aage, aapka pura naam" asked Yunus.
"Vyom, bus itna hi" said Vyom with a smile and spread the cover on the berth and lied down on the berth. That is when Yunus started narrating his life to Vyom, "hum gaon Dhulia ke hai, jab ghar se aaye the tab yahi traino me saaf karte the, kachra saaf karte the kapde se, phir sheher me kaam shuru kiya majduri ka, phir mistri ka kaam seekha aur ab thodi drivery bhi seekh li. Pichle saal hi kaam shuru kiya hai, uske pehle coma me the, mumbai me local par baithe the current lag gaya. Bahut paisa kharch hua, aap .......(forgot the name) aspatal jaante ho wahi hamara ilaaz hua tha. Ab phir se shuru kiya hai sab, bahut paisa lag gaya tha ilaaz me. Aap train me so jaate hai, accha aap so jayiye, humara station to ek baje aayega."
Vyom just nodded in agreement and pulled the sheet on his face, thinking about the party last week where he spent 840 rupees drinking beer with his friend because he was upset, he was upset because life was not turning out the way he wanted....

28th March, 2012

Vyom was en route to Pune, where he had to start work the next day. He boarded the train and settled into his sleeper compartment berth. Hoping to upgrade to an AC seat, he inquired with the ticket collector, who directed him to the AC coach's ticket collector. When Vyom approached the second ticket collector, he was informed that the upgrade would cost not only the difference in ticket price but also an additional 200 rupees. Sensing a bribe, Vyom decided against the upgrade and returned to his sleeper berth.

During the journey, Vyom enjoyed a meal, read some comics he had bought, and eventually fell asleep. He woke up at around 7 am, knowing the train was due to arrive in Pune by 11 am. He bought packaged drinking water to brush his teeth and wash his face, then returned to his berth to pass the time with movies and music until his devices' batteries died.

At around 10 am, Vyom got up to recharge his phone. He noticed a man sitting near the charging point opposite the washbasin but didn't pay much attention to him. As Vyom enjoyed the view from the train, he suddenly saw the man rummage through a plastic bag retrieved from the garbage area beneath the washbasin. The man searched several aluminum foils before finding some leftover vegetables, which he ate as though he hadn't eaten for days. After consuming the meager leftovers, the man drank water from the washbasin, not to quench his thirst but to satiate his hunger.

Vyom was shocked and overwhelmed with emotion, tears streaming down his face. He thought about how he had spent 36 rupees on three bottles of packaged water just to wash his face and brush his teeth, and how he had carelessly spent 50 rupees on comics that he read for only 30 minutes. The stark contrast between his life and the man's experiences opened Vyom's eyes to the vast disparities in their circumstances.

   **************************************************************************

Vyom is a citizen of India where the scams sum up to 10.67 Lac Crore (coalgate), 1.76Lac Crore (2G scam), 70000 Crore (Commonwealth),  27000 Crore (UP NRHM) and many unearthed till now... This is the country with highest number of worship places (temples, mosques, churches, gurudwaras). This is the place which boosts of several Gods and religions.. this is the place from where God has gone.

God is gone, we are on our own...

नाजुक रिश्ते

रिश्ते है नए ज़माने के ये छूटने लगे है
अहम् की दीवारों से टकराकर टूटने लगे है

झगडके गले लगना, ये बचपन के रिवाज़ थे
आजकल तो दिलों में शिकवे बेहिसाब है

अपनों को अपना कहने वाले पल में पराया कर देते है
ज़िन्दगी में कई रिश्ते हम यू ही ज़ाया कर देते है

सहेज के तो घर में कांच के बर्तन रखते है
रिश्ते तो वो ताकत है जिसकी हम लोहे से तुलना करते है

लोहा भी मिलावटी टूट के बिखरने लगा है
आजकल तो गैरों से ज्यादा अपनों से डर लगने लगा है

रंग से परे

रंगों से परहेज नहीं लेकिन रंगों को सहेज कर रखा है
क्यूंकि इन रंगों में रंग अभी कुछ और भरना बाकी है 

What Dad said after reading my post :)

रंगों से परहेज नहीं रंगों को सहेज कर रखा है हमने
बेरंग हो रही दुनिया में कुछ रंग ख़ुशी के भरना है 

 pic clicked at CST Teminal Bombay on 2nd Feb 2012

Before I Let My Soul Die...

I've been down before but this time it was like surrendering. Some parallel events placed me in dirt zone. I was all in for the sin. Righteousness was getting me nowhere, I was criticized and demoralized.

At work, my efforts seemed to be going down the drain yet again and the same old story of crooks being rewarded was about to be repeated. I fought, decided to quit and let the work suffer. At home, my family was cheated in business and I was ready to retaliate. But He... I have Him in many forms, I find him in my friend and I find Him in my love. My friend is agnostic and my love is believer. He never let's me down and I don't know how it works, but His magic works for me.

I do things and He corrects them for me.
When I lose hope, He inspires me. 
I just fight and He shields me.
When I am alone, He accompanies me.

He’d be the one who’s by my side before the night is over and He'd be the one who'll hold me back before I let my soul die...

Ae Jaate Hua Lamho

Somehow when I went for this New Year's celebration I had this feeling that this is probably the last time when I can go crazy and that is exactly what I did... I had Fun Unlimited!!! That time is not gonna come back and I will never complain about it, there is nothing that I wanna change about that time. Everything was picture perfect, from the beginning to the end. Without getting into the details of the trip and the celebration, I'll come down to the purpose of penning this blog. There is always this one person somewhere, who makes you feel that "world is still very beautiful and life is worth living".

I think that I have big challenges but I am not the only one, there are those whose challenges are bigger than mine, whose lives are tougher than mine; and no they have not accepted defeat, they are strugglers. Till you'll live, the struggle will be there. The only thing that you have to figure out is how to keep smiling in tough times, eventually tough time will pass by. Remember nothing is permanent.

khoobsurat gam

gam ki khoobsurti ko kya samjhega ye zamana,
muskaan ka dard kaha hai isne pehchana..

Save The Humanity

"Welcome to the world of the girl child, where promise meets despair and hope is overshadowed by gloom. The woman, who rocks the cradle and shapes the destiny of civilization, is tragically one of humanity's gravest concerns today. With numerous summits, conferences, and events being held to address the issue, even the world's top leaders are involved in the cause.

Indian traditions and rituals define the existence of the girl child. Despite clamors for gender equality and law enforcement, female infants are still found abandoned in trash, while unborn fetuses are relentlessly eliminated in the womb. Our society, steeped in discrimination and bound by rituals, has dealt a cruel hand to the girl child, from the moment of conception until the darkness of life."

I won't reiterate what we read in newspapers, nor will I provide reasons for why we should save the girl child. The problem is that people hear but don't listen, read but don't understand.

I pose these questions: Why does the girl child need a "SAVE" title, as if she were an endangered species? What drives society's callous attitude, and does the concept of society even exist in India? At times, it feels like we live in a lawless place more dangerous than a jungle, where even the standard rules don't apply. Just a few months ago, I saw on television how a group of goons killed two young men who resisted their advances towards girls, while hundreds of bystanders watched the horrific scene unfold. These helpless, shameless, remorseful individuals may lament society's ills, but when given the chance to make a difference, they choose to be mere spectators.

I could write thousands of words on the subject, but I will end here. I hope you were born of a woman you call MOTHER and in a nation you call your MOTHERLAND. If you have duties and responsibilities towards your family, you have at least the same obligations towards your nation. And if you cannot respect and love the daughter in your home, don't even consider yourself human, for even animals protect their offspring.

** I changed the title of the post. This title does justice to the article.

लोग कहते है

लोग कहते की डर के आगे जीत होती है लेकिन कितने आगे है ये कोई नहीं बताता
लोग कहते है की अन्याय का अंत होता है लेकिन कब होता है कोई नहीं बताता
लोग कहते है की अच्छाई की जीत होती है लेकिन कब होती है कोई नहीं बताता

कभी सुबह कभी शाम होती है,
कभी दिन कभी रात होती है,
हवाएं रुख बदल लेती है,
मौसम भी जल्द बदल जाते है,
लेकिन जो बात लोग कहते है वो नहीं होती...

लोग कहते की डर के आगे जीत होती है
लोग कहते है की अन्याय का अंत होता है
लोग कहते है की अच्छाई की जीत होती है

The Festival

बाहर जगमगाहट,
भीतर घना तम,
त्यौहार की धूम में,
मन को चुभ रहा एक गम I

फटाको की गूँज
तो कही तबाही का मातम,
त्यौहार की धूम में,
मन को चुभ रहा एक गम I

घर से निकला मैं लेने त्यौहार का साजो सामान,
देखा सड़क पर बैठी  थी  एक नन्ही सी जान,
बेच रही थी वो फूलों की माला और रंगोली के रंग,
एहसास हुआ मुझे कितना तंग था उसका जीवन,
त्यौहार की धूम में,
मन को चुभ रहा एक गम,
बाहर जगमगाहट,
भीतर घना तम I

From The Past To The Present

As I was reading some old paper cuttings I got a few quotable quotes from them and I couldn't resist sharing them. I added one of my writeup too ;)
The picture below also from a newspaper... observe it carefully, it's hope..

If you do not hope, you'll not find what is beyond your hopes.

The best way out is always through.
 

That you really believe in always happens. And the belief in a thing makes it happen. ~Frank Lloyd Wright

The fearless are merely fearless. People who act in spite of their fear are truly brave. ~James Lewis

There is nothing like a dream to create a future. ~Victor Hugo

To create, sometimes you must rebel. ~Isabelle Duschenay

I try to keep it simple, so if complications hit me. They'll die.

The self is not something that one finds. It is something that one creates. ~Thomas Szasz

Let me not pray to be sheltered from dangers, but be fearless in facing them. ~Tagore

The price good men pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men. ~Plato

The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. ~Miyamoto Musashi

Strength does not comes from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will. ~Gandhi

If a man hasn't discovered something that he would die for, he isn't fit to live. ~Martin Luther King Jr

The trouble with the rat race is that even if you win, you are still a rat. ~Lily Tomlin

A man who dares to waste one hour of time has not discovered the value of life. ~Charles Darwin

A man who fears suffering is already suffering from what he fears. ~Michel de Montaigne

The Night Is Darkest Just Before The Dawn

I want to tell you, before I go to bed, that I am a little afraid tonight. Whatever I am or my dream is, might hit the rock bottom, I fear losing, I fear failure. It is still quite easy to keep making money by what I am doing now and not only that, it is secure, I am settled here, this is my comfort zone. But.... but still for once I want to reach out, I want to feel the solace in my heart that I did it, I tried and I never gave up. Will I be able to do that? Can I find some decent people in this institution who respects the value of education?

I don't know my own capabilities and limitations completely but I will try not to let my spirit break. I will...

An Education Revolution

The Indian education system has got enslaved in capitalist society. Among the rat race to acquire a white collar job, our education system is producing more cattle folk than farmers. The educational heritage which imbibed 'guru-shishya parampara' has been destroyed. The Indian Education System whose objectives were acquisition of knowledge, inculcation of social duties and character building is now just focused on wealth generation. A teaching authority and fair-mindedness is lacking in our society. The fascination and craving for knowledge is missing among the students.

After volunteering for Teach For India, a thought struck me, I felt compelled and motivated to bring about a change in Higher Education, so that students can be educated rather and not just be degree holders. For I firmly believe that an educated soul is an enlightened soul and are the future of our society. With high hopes I decided to reach out to the educationalists. My first few experiences were bitter-a Dean Academic of a very prominent college openly announced cash for seat in the college to one M.Tech aspirant in front me and I knew that it was not my place to be, the other college whose director boosts of 41 years of rich teaching experience, renowned scientist and educationalist, gold medalist in M.E., holds Ph.D. from IIT(Bombay) and claims to chairman/expert/member of several academic bodies and institutes turned out to be a big dummy fed with money and no authority, crestfallen when I was about to decide to quit on my mission, I found a few people, who shared the same vision and respect for education as mine. I could not express my delight by the way they encouraged and revived me. I am roaring to go now.

I'll follow my belief, my belief that true education can shape the India I envisioned. My plans are clear I'll develop leadership among the students and teach those who have been deprived of education through night schools and classes. One me will find another me, and then so many believers will shape the India.

EDUCATION BUILDS THE MAN SO IT BUILDS THE NATION.

Lessons for ManMohan Singh & Team Anna's Philosophy

Lesson's for Manmohan Singh:

• Don't wait to fight corruption. To wait is to waste time and opportunity. 
• Don't surrender leadership to outside forces(like Sibbal, Chiddu).
• Better do something imperfectly than nothing flawlessly.
• Never reject an idea because its not your way of doing things.
• You won't be able to eradicate corruption, if you won't begin.
• Don't surrender your soul to KURSI.

 Team Anna's Philosophy:

• If we do good, people will accuse us of selfish ulterior motives. But we'll do good anyway.
• Honesty and frankness makes us vulnerable. But we'll be honest and frank anyway.
• What we spent years building may be destroyed overnight. But we'll build anyway.

Why I'd rather be Anna than Arundhati

Don't miss this one -- Why I'd be Anna and not Arundhati

All credits to the author. Hats off.

आंधी

मेरी ख़ामोशी को मेरी कमजोरी न समझ लेना,
जिस दिन मेरा खून चला तुम पानी से बह जाओगे..
मैं चुप हूँ क्यूंकि अभी तक मैं जला नहीं हूँ,
पर मैं जला तो समुन्दर में भी तुम जल जाओगे..
मत लो मेरे सब्र का इम्तेहान मत लो मेरे सब्र का इम्तेहान
अगर सब्र का बांध टूट गया तो जीते जी तुम मर जाओगे..

The Conspiracy Theory

Manu – Chairman

Sona – Chief Executive Officer

Rohit – Sona’s son (the to be chairman)

Kapil and Diggaj  – Board members

Kalu & Raja – The ex-workers of the factory now in jail (they were found to have duped the factory workers and were responsible for factories recent downfall in market)

Hajji – The union leader

Aru and Kira – Workers in the union, termed by others as Hajji’s hands.

There was no solace for the factory workers in Rohit’s statement, “It was just a minor fire in the finance unit, such minor incidents do happen and we cannot do anything about it. We deeply regret for the loss of the life of the workers though. We will have a board meeting to decide the compensation for the victims; we have our sympathy with the workers.” While there was anger among many factory workers, the families who lost their sole bread earners were not able to check their tears and wails.

Aru found something suspicious in the statement, ‘… such minor incidents do happen and we cannot do anything about it’. Why was it, that a day after Diggaj’s visit, the finance area was on fire? Why did Diggaj even after knowing that Kalu and Raja were culprits termed them as innocent victims? Aru’s mind was racing, Hajji is a month away from the threatened strike against the board’s misruling and a fire in the finance unit diverts the mind of the workers. It can be a plot to derail the strike. The board knows well that the workers are very agitated and they have deep faith in Hajji, any strike that Hajji leads will result in the downfall of the board. The board cannot risk themselves getting behind bars. So was it a plot by the board? Was the fire planned?

Aru disclosed his fears to Kira, “Kira, there is something suspicious about yesterday’s fire breakout. Did you hear how Rohit addressed the whole incident?”

Kira, “Aru, you just read my mind. A day before yesterday when Diggaj visited the factory and expressed his concern for Kalu and Raja, I noticed that wry smile on his face. He is surely fooling the innocent workers and I am sure that Kalu and Raja’s misdeeds were very well known by the board and they too were involved in it. But Aru we cannot let such incidents derail our movement, out strike is for the workers and the factory and our victory alone can bring to the guilty to justice.”

Aru nodded silently, but Kira and Aru both knew that the battle is not easy.

In the board meeting room, Sona is pacing furiously while Manu is sitting at the chairman’s desk visibly dejected when Kapil, Diggaj and Rohit enter the room.

Rohit “They had a stern look, the workers… the workers are quite agitated mother.”

Sona shouts at Rohit, “So does that explain why you announced that they will be given compensation. Those workers, those no class workers, they are born to die and if they die in an accident why should we…”

Kapil intervened, “Sona you don’t worry about the money, we have already managed all that with their own money, not even a penny moves out of our pocket and even if they realize what we did to them, they cannot fight back, poor workers have family to take care of, kids to feed and educate.”

Sona, “But even then does that mean that we are going to give in charity the factory’s fund.”

On this Manu meekly speaks, “The factory runs because of the workers, it is their right to…”

Diggaj, “You keep your mouth shut, don’t you realize that you are the chairman because of Sona madam. You just act as a spectator till Rohit takes over the chair from you. And Sona it is important to announce the compensation because if some day they will find out that the fire was not just an accident but a plot by us, we will have our defenses ready. We need to throw money because there is a lot of blood shed and we need to clear it.”

Sona ”but what will be left for my son Rohit, if you keep splurging money like this.”

Diggaj “Sona don’t forget there is a lot that we have and a lot that we can make, this factory is still running well due to the workers, we just need to keep them at toes.”

Rohit, “What about Hajji? How are we planning to silence him?”

Kapil “Kid you just play your part and leave the bigger game to us, we will take care of him when time comes. We already lured him last time promising him justice at the board. This time we will eliminate this weed.”

All except Manu share a vile smile.

After one month, a day before Hajji’s strike and factory’s annual results, again a fire broke out in the factory this time many workers were caught. Hajji could not carry out the strike and what happened next…

**A conspiracy theory is a fringe theory which explains a historical or current event as the result of a secret plot by exceptionally powerful and cunning conspirators to achieve a malevolent end. **

hope....

Epilogue:
It was pouring heavily today when I first saw him, silently sitting in the garden on a rusted green bench. For a moment it seemed that he was lost in the sound and sight of the heavens washing away the dirt and dust of the world and after a while he started to shiver. I walked up to him "hey, you should not be sitting here anymore" and he glanced at me with bleary eyes that was the first time when I noticed his face. He looked despondent and fragile. Tears flooded his eyes and he covered them with his hands. He was visibly struggling......

The speech:
"The words expectation and hope are separated with a very fine line. Expectations are driven by mental logic and there are particular areas of our life where we should be filled with expectations. Like I expect that I should be paid each month for the work I do. Managers expect that their employees should work effectively and deliver in time. Whereas hope is something that is a wish, a dream sometimes you work for it sometimes you don't -- but you don't expect it to happen. That way there are fewer disappointments and more pleasant surprises. So the advice is to keep our hopes high and expectations low.
A man once came to me heartbroken, financially depressed, facing a complete mayhem. I asked him what was hurting him the most, to which he replied that I often find myself in the place of expectation and nothing turned out according to the expectations. I broke up with my fiance, I got trapped in a heavy debt, my job is also not paying me well and I can't find a way out. I just provided him with a little hope, a little pep talk. He clung to hope without expectations and things stopped hurting him anymore, he was able to smile again, he was able to feel love again, a new life... a new beginning all because of hope from his heart.
The morale is no matter how dark the moment, love and hope are always possible. Every area of trouble gives out a ray of hope; and the one unchangeable certainty is that nothing is certain or unchangeable. When you put faith, hope and love together you can live positively in a negative world."

The Story:
The mornings infused a new life in him, he woke up and listened patiently to the sound of the cool breeze and bird chirping before he climbed out of the bed. In an hour he was all set to go to work. He rehearsed his speech for one last time, and with the last word the door bell rang. "I am sorry, I am sorry" is all that they said. His wife and kids were killed in a road mishap. A case was filed for negligent and drunken driving against the driver, who was pronounced not guilty by the court today. A decision that defied all the expectations of justice.

*This is inspired by a real life incident.

Raped

The Congress party's 2009 election motto read:
Aam aadmi ke badte kadam, Har kadam par Bharat buland.

Not sarcastic but the truth, the words behind the motto meant:
Bhrashtachar ke badte kadam, Har kadam par Bharat khatam.
                                                   or
Aam aadmi ke bate kadam, har kadam par jurm ki takat buland.

What has corruption done to India? I'll jot down what has been in newspapers in the month of June, just one single month:


17 Jun 2011,21:44
Pune police have booked a 29 year old person for allegedly raping a woman on the pretext of marrying her
16 Jun 2011,21:06
A tantrik was arrested for allegedly raping a 17-year-old teen at Larankelo village of Kullu on Thursday evening. The incident came into light when girl narrated her horrific experience to her mother that how tantrik, Sher Singh of the same village raped her on the pretext of removing the scars on her face on Wednesday.
14 Jun 2011,23:09
Gurpreet Singh of Sangrur has been booked under charges of raping a minor girl
10 Jun 2011,19:47
A person was booked on the statement of a woman in Nirmand village that he tried to rape her while she was alone in her garden. Accused has been identified as Bir Bahadur. A case u/s 354 of IPC act has been registered against him.
10 Jun 2011,02:55
A 15-year-old was allegedly raped by another minor in Sultanpuri area.
9 Jun 2011,23:42
Two persons, identified as Sadh Ram and Santosh Kumar, resident of Nirmand village have been booked for 'attempt of rape' at public place in Nirmand today.
9 Jun 2011,21:39
Pune police arrested one person for allegedly raping a 42 year old woman and making her obscene video clip.
7 Jun 2011,18:18
A minor girl belong to the Dalit community was abducted and raped from a slum area in Sikar district of the state. Police have lodged a case but was yet to arrest the accused.
2 Jun 2011,13:45
Sukhpal Singh of village Samao booked for raping a minor girl.
1 Jun 2011,18:48
A person, identified as Dhyan Singh, resident of Chehni village was arrested on Wednesday for raping a girl in Kullu. According to police, the accused first kidnapped the girl and raped her without her consent on May 26. He has been arrested u/s 365, 366, 376 of IPC act.

Every single day n-number of such cases reported/non-reported happen in India and the government says it is worried about the declining sex ratio. Save the girl child. Save her for what? For getting raped one day.

To top that, in many of the rape cases, which come in light now-a-days, the perpetrators of the heinous crime are the ones who are part of the government-POLICEMEN and POLITICIANS. These people with power find it easy to escape any punishment for the crime, all thanks to the Indian Judiciary System. There are no stringent laws to punish the guilty.

Corruption has raped the nation still government says it WILL TRY to tackle corruption. Are you trying to tell me that POLITICIANS can come up with a system which will allow them TO RAPE THEMSELVES.

The Civil Society is demanding the law breakers to draft the laws... There are three more years before the next election. The freedom fighters fought for 200 years can the civil society last for the next three? And even after that will they be able to free India from corruption?

What next Annaji?

My question- "what next Annaji?" is pointed towards the common man.

Quite concisely I knew the fate of Lokpal on April 22, 2011 as I highlighted in Vande Matram, still in some corner of my heart I had some hope not in government but the democracy which is non-existent.

And it is not only me who is perturbed, I read what Kiran Bedi tweeted today, at this moment - "Govt bill reinforces practice of two sets of laws in enforcement. With PM, judiciary and MPs for corruption in the house out of lokpal bill. By its new draft govt makes it three inquiry\ investigating overlapping agencies. CBI, CVC and Lokpal. Not one single anti corruption body. It also bifurcates the bureaucracy into higher and lower. And provides non effective relief for a common man. It also leaves the state ayukts out. Which means states will need to struggle for effective anti corruption institution too. The selection panel is a political heavy weight. Ours was a mixed balance. The removal of a corrupt lokpal was direct. Now indirect via Govt. What is the point of agreeing on minor issues while not agreeing on a basic independent structure proposed for Lokpal needed most."

What will I do next? I'm bound by my own shackles, so should I sit quietly and watch the drama. I'm highly perturbed. My tolerance is not my weakness... the battle has to begin now, it's the time for the wishes to be fulfilled.... I'll keep you posted.

Satyagraha

The government which never questioned why so much corruption is now questioning why so much agitation. The dogs of the corrupt system who are barking over the news channels and in the media that, such agitations are not worthy and have suspicious motives, should atleast do a soul search for what have they done for the nation. They all are corruption beneficiaries wagging their tails for the ministers and now someone, a man, is trampling on these dog's tails and they have started barking. All the political parties and their dogs have vested interest in corruption, and they take care of each other. Corrupt practices are not imposed from outside; people choose to practice them to further their interests!

For how long did the government think that they would continue their naked display of corruption and the nation will keep itself blindfolded to what is happening, aren't six decades enough. We have had enough of scandals, loots, rapes, abductions and murders by the legislators of the democracy.
 
After 64 years of utter frustration in common men, this one time someone is at least raising his voice against corruption. These are rays of hope, I am not sure how far can they penetrate the black cloud but we should fully support every such agitation which ensures to save the country from corruption, let not this be an individual's campaign. We have to fight this cancer of corruption. People are skeptical/pessimistic, some are fully confident that this is just a futile wail or cry and no outcome is going to come out of this. Still the objective is worth pursuing. A true warrior is the one who is almost sure of defeat but still gives his best to defeat the defeat. It is time that we rise above the facebook and twitter campaigns and become real revolutionaries and not internet warriors.**
Let's refurbish our souls and become a SATYAGRAHI...

**Internet as a medium to reach people and raise our voice is highly effective but it is not enough. Shanknaad to jung ka elan karne ke liye hota hai, jung to aakhir kurukshetra me utar ke hi jitni padti hai.

The Comment from :) --
Satyagraha is not the answer for such a long and revolutionary change to take place... If we have dirty politics, then they also possess unbound power of destruction. We have to be tacticle in handling this situation, participation is necessary but change too... First all the people should be united, do you think there really is unity in diversity when we fight on small matters like celebrating festivals and also about those old religious wars? Is there any realisation on the greater front about being one for your better life? Do we ever talk about peace and betterment of this society? We never do.. and when we are not even together, do you think satyagraha is of any help?

"Principles are of help with knowledge, but with conditions applied."
To use any law,or principle there is an exception and are if's and but's... the same is here..

But somewhere to start, unity should be created. The internet is just a medium, creating fan pages and fight groups is not all..we have to go beyond it, and find real courage to fight. In reality no one wants to dirty his or her hands in this fight... but since its the need of the hour rebellious attitude may work wonders..

Dont write it in a newspaper manner, it needs touch of strength and bold courage to make a difference with satirical writings..

Just a little wish for you, Maa

"In pain when my heart cries, mom's embrace is the balm to my pain."  

All I am and I ever will be, if you ever want to thank me or praise me for what I do- thank my maa and praise her. Whoever I am, I owe to the two ladies of my life- my maa and my naani maa.

Maa taught me that her boy should not give up on anything and Nanimaa taught me not to complain or regret.

Maa taught me that life is an endless challenge and Nanimaa taught me that no challenge is good or bad.

From Maa I learned to be eager and from Nanimaa to be humble.

From Maa I gained my courage from Nanimaa my patience.

They taught me to fear only the Almighty and the wrongs I do.

They taught me to respect the elders and love the younger ones.

As a child, I used to be stubborn but she never fulfilled all my demands. She taught me that sometimes it is important to lose and sometimes it is important to gain. She taught me not to take pride in my possessions and not to feel ashamed for what I don't possess. I was not born as someone destined to be great, no prodigy. I had no big and real dreams either but then one  day I realized my mom's dreams, dreams which she saw for me and they made me what I am. Her belief in me, became my belief and I dare not wrong her ever.

Maa... just a wish for you... may your smile fade never ever. Because my life began when you took me in your arms and smiled looking at my face.

Vande Mataram

I was not one among the many Indians who felt euphoric after the government caved in to Anna Hazare's movement against corruption. I was skeptical of the government's move and they did not disappoint me either, they proved my theory right. My theory- that the government could sense the spark and the heat, so it immediately decided to extinguish it before it catches widespread fire and then remove the originators of this fire out of the system by any and all means possible. The Indian judicial system works in a simple manner, if someone stands for true justice, walk up beside them slowly and stab them in their heart, keep the culprits in a safe custody till then. This is how almost every movement, every agitation in our country dies.

What chance does a country have when the good people do nothing? Common men have learned to bury their responsibilities with their silence. They need to learn to confront it and face the truth. They know how to fight for their food, they need to learn to fight for their right. They have learned to live as impotent who couldn't fight injustice. Remember, corruption is not a curse set upon us it is an evil that has to be fought. We can chose to perish and make our lives miserable or we can chose to stand up and fight. The efforts are equivalent.

People need dramatic examples to come out their coldness. I speak to shake them out of their apathy. I don't know exactly what to do but I know that out there, there is evil. I am just gonna do what is right, nothing heroic and I'll keep doing that again and again till I am alive. I won't regret and I won't complain, I'll keep facing the challenges. So that one day may be from God's nest when I look down I see that the Indian common man has trampled the corruption.

INDIA, our motherland, does not belong to the criminals or corrupts. And I am not going to watch it burn.

a message from ............. : (felt like sharing)
Common man is common because of his struggle for livelihood, its not about silence, its about his life. Corruption is something which is created by the rich and wealthy, the powerful and greedy. They have everything, its all but empty mind's devil's workshop. First you should take care of their basic needs, talking about so many stuffs is useless if the people of your country are hungry and poor,they don't have proper clothes to wear or proper education. Corruption comes far later, because its just a part that makes Indian government stink. Good people are who? Define them? How can you call good people good when they don't do anything, these good people are good for nothing. There are no people in fact in India who genuinely will fight for their rights, the ones who do are ridiculed, not supported by. Corruption is a big thing, but for things to improve the fundamentals should be clear, many people can't read, they are duped by the clever..but its not their fault, education comes in play over here... look into the basics sort out the needs and then talk about it. I would like to know what you do? And what right you want to keep doing? The movement by Anna Hazare was not a agitation, it was just the start of realisation, and for the Indian peole it was necessary.. Government won't change, till the time people take control. And corruption won't stop till you make every human being the way he is supposed to be, with things necessary for a civilised society, those are called values. If you can think, its time to act... this piece of yours sounds like a monotonous news, saying all the same things that critics say, stop being diplomatic if you love your country that much. India needs character of truth, not tacts. And if you feel so red, do something!

Corruption and Common Man

"The dream of India as a strong nation will not be realized without self-reliant, self-sufficient villages, this can be achieved only through social commitment and involvement of the common man." These are the words, the vision of the man who commenced a fast upto death on 5th April 2011- Anna Hazare.

Anna Hazare's protest led to the resignation of Mr CORRUPT Pawar from the governments Lokpal Bill committee but is that enough. Pawar is not the only corrupt politician. How can a guilty convict a guilty. The politicians are all robbers of the same gang, we need someone from outside this system to nab these corrupts. If this country has to be cleansed then the job cannot be trusted with by the current set of politicians. This movement has to be led by efficient leaders bring Narayan Murthys, Anna Hazares and cleanse the system.

A movement is in the beginning, the people are coming out of their shells and raising voice, let's make this voice-a roar. SHOUT LOUD, so loud that the corrupts go deaf.

Thanks Anna Hazare for showing us the ray of hope. You are on the way of fulfilling your duty towards your motherland.  

Also, Team India we stood by you and supported you when you were battling for the world cup, now it is your time to step up and stand for us. Say no to Indian Paisa League till the Lokpal bill is drafted. Will you?

I just hope that this movement turns out to be a stirrer and not a moments 'josh'. The agitation should pick up and people should support this movement and share this feeling in the same manner we shared the proud of winning the world cup. This time the stakes are much higher and so are the rewards, if we can make this movement a revolution...we can win the battle against corruption.

हो गई है पीर पर्वत-सी पिघलनी चाहिए,
इस हिमालय से कोई गंगा निकलनी चाहिए।
आज यह दीवार, परदों की तरह हिलने लगी,
शर्त लेकिन थी कि ये बुनियाद हिलनी चाहिए।
हर सड़क पर, हर गली में, हर नगर, हर गाँव में,
हाथ लहराते हुए हर लाश चलनी चाहिए।
सिर्फ हंगामा खड़ा करना मेरा मकसद नहीं,
सारी कोशिश है कि ये सूरत बदलनी चाहिए।
मेरे सीने में नहीं तो तेरे सीने में सही,
हो कहीं भी आग, लेकिन आग जलनी चाहिए।

- दुष्यन्त कुमार

A few more shouts:

Azadi Ka Jashn
Khoon chala
Commonwealth- A big treason  

76 Soldiers Killed by Politicians

Mayawati- Steward of daulat

Separate State Satire 

Encroached, Enraged India

A Letter from INDIA to the Indian Cricket Team

Dear Team India,

You know that cricket is celebrated like festival in India. It runs like blood in the veins of every Indian, be it rich or poor. No Wonder the anxiety and anticipation of India-Australia cricket quarterfinals on 24^thMarch 2011 overshadowed the death anniversary of Shahid Bhagat Singh that fell on 23^rd March, 2011 (his 80^thdeath anniversary). No one for once remembered, forget paying tribute, the young man who sacrificed his life at the age of 23 for independent India. The nation was enthralled with the anticipation of witnessing Sachin’s 100th century in international cricket and his 18000 run feast. Let’s not forget how many ‘havans’ and ‘special prayers’ were done for your victory against Australia in the quarterfinals.

The martyrs of the past are now the part of history textbook but you the Indian Team are the current heroes of the Nation. We look up to you to give us something, a recognition of “sporty India”; a recognition apart from the “poor victims of corruption”.  It feels good to be titled as ‘Cricketing Nation’ than ‘Corrupt Nation’.

All the political parties and the ministers (not leaders- it is a very dignified word), whom we elected have showed us the ugly side of the game and shamed us with their dismal performance in all the fields - team(with integrity and honesty), captaincy (leadership), batting (top order- giving good guidance, middle order- providing solid growth, lower order- playing sensibly not ducking with bribes), bowling (restricting runs- restricting corruption, getting wickets- nabbing the corrupts and criminals) and fielding (containing inflation, population explosion, crime rate and unbridled construction).

So Team India in your victory we’ll find the balm for the excruciating pain that is caused to us by the 2G spectrum scam, the Commonwealth scam, the note for vote and the prevalent corruption  (We wonder why the news calls these sinister crimes as scams), which has scarred our souls and wounded our hearts badly. In your victory we’ll find the joy, the solace, the pride of being an Indian- a winner and not a corrupt.

If you, the Blue Brigade, fail us in the days to come, don’t worry, we won’t be more heartbroken and lost than we already are. We’ll gulp the news of loss in the same manner like we have gulped the poisons of n-number of scams till now just with a few noises and going silent thereafter, expecting nothing.

But remember we want to see the ‘Men in Blue’, you,  lifting the cup, we want to hear the world applauding us for being victorious and feel the glory of India- the nation of cricket lovers not the land of scams.

An Indian

** I tried my best to get it in some national english daily... missed out. Probably not a newspaper material or even the print media works on 'solid jugaad' :)

Between You And Me

No matter how worse it gets, You'll be there that's something I know...
It's not because I'm too good, it's just because you are a wonderful YOU.

Teach For India

This month I'll finish my tenure with Teach For India as a volunteer. Soon the kids will have their exams and all that they were taught will be tested. My test still won't be over as I was not trying to teach them just maths or english, I was trying to motivate them to learn. The lesson I wanted to imbibe in their hearts was of hard work and honesty. They'll fail the day they feel that they can't do it and I'll fail if as a teacher I let them believe it. My footprints might be lost in the sand of time but one day I want them to rise and mark their footprints, become a good human being and serve their motherland. The rising digits in my salary bring me no solace, it's just a need but an hour spent in teaching these kids becomes my hour of serenity.
Probably now will be the time for me to say goodbye to my kids... with a heavy heart I have to move on and find out a way through which I can reach out to other kids and give them the same lesson and move on and on and on.

I have miles to go before I sleep,
Stay awake with me for a few nights,
Walk with me - a few miles,
Help me as I have a long bridge to be built,
Help me.... please TEACH.


P.S.- Those who read this and want to appreciate me or my efforts... just try to understand I don't do it for anyone, I do it for myself. This is how I buy happiness for myself. I'll try to mend your heart because this is how my heart is contented. I'll be your friend because I see that compassion in you that I crave for. I teach them because I desire to see honest countrymen in my country, who don't rob, rape, kill, burn my nation, my country, my motherland.
Educate a child and I'll be indebted.