EXTERNAL THREAT UNIFIES THE COUNTRY BUT INTERNAL THREAT?
Most of us Verdurians remember how the Country stood behind the soldiers as a strong wall during the trying times of 1962 war with China, 1965 war with Pakistan and again 1971 war with Pakistan. Irrespective of the results, bad and good both, the whole populace beyond cast and creed cheered the Army Jawans at the Railway stations while being transported to the fronts. Women were present with Rakhies, flowers, and sweets and vermilion to greet the soldiers and wish them luck. People opened their vaults and donated wholeheartedly to the Prime Minister’s Fund. Blackouts were religiously observed. There were long queues to enlist in the Army.
Fortunately the Country has not faced such external threat since then, barring a few disquiet moments on the borders.
The country however is faced with a bigger internal threat in the form of Maoists and several such so called political outfits in different forms that may break the basic thread of the nation. This is addition to terrorist’s threats engineered by our neighboring country. The country seems to be divided over the issue of the internal threat.
More than sixty districts in Bengal, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Orrissa and Andhra Pradesh are affected with daily dose of violence in the tribal areas and spreading. The Prime Minister thinks this threat is more dangerous than the external threats and rightly so because here our forces Police and Army have to fight with our own people. Political Parties have different take depending upon the vote bank.
The Nation is not united on the issue of fighting these misguided elements who refuse to come to the negotiation table unless the Government meets their conditions.
Unless the Country as whole has a common approach on the issue we are going to watch more bloodshed.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
WHEN NEED BECOMES GREED
WHEN NEED BECOMES GREED
Leo Tolstoy in his story “How Much land Does a Man Need” seems to convey that a man does not need more than six feet long and may be three feet wide land for his grave. Greed drives a simple peasant to accept a proposal to own as much land as he can cover in a day from day break to sunset with the condition that he has to return to the starting point before sunset. Greed takes him to as far as he thought he can cover but by the time he returns to the starting point he is totally exhausted and falls dead on the ground. He is buried there itself.
Seen in this context, it is rather difficult to understand why people accumulate vast wealth in form of landed properties, stocks, cash, jewellery etc. It is true that a man needs only six feet by six feet land if to be burried and not even that if to be cremated after his death but the issue is not that simple during his life time. In some communities burial/cremation expenses have become so exhorbitant that even death seems to be a very costly proposition. Some guys make financial arrangements for all such expenses before their death. It is not however of little consequence after one is dead be it prestige or peace or heavenly journey or any which name we would like to call it. Thousands of people die and get buried /cremated without any rites whatsoever.
The question, therefore is how much is enough? I officially retired at the age of 58 as per company rules and was given 8 six monthly extentions and finally allowed to retire at the age of 62. My employers wanted me to continue as long as my health permitted but I had different take and they had to accept my request. The CMD remarked “you seem to have enough savings” to which I replied “Sir, ‘enough’ has different meaning for different people. I think I have enough to sail through for rest of my life. I want to visit various places which I would not be in a position to do with all the official work to attend to. I would not like to make commitments that I can not fulfill. We have equally efficient people in our team who can take over anytime. One of them must get the opportunity.” He smiled and we shook hands.
Well I have no regrets. I have been in a position to maintain the same standard of living I was used to . In fact, during the last 7 years after retirement I have been in a position to visit various places of tourist and religious importance . I have been in a position to visit my grand children 4 times in the USA and stayed with them for as long as six months in a very carefree environment. It would not have been possible if I had official commitments staring at me from a distance.
This may be okay for me but not for many. Some may have unmarried sons or daughters. Some may have no roof over their heads. Some may have no savings at all. Some may be facing health problems. People take up jobs after retirement to supplement their income in order to live a comfortable life and meet other obligations.
There are people for whom enough is never enough when it comes to wealth and comforts. A friend of mine has a Maruti Swift but he is worried that he does not have money to buy a Toyota Innova. The other friend wants a large house with a swimming pool. This satisfies their ego. They also want to secure the future of their nextr generation.
Then there are people who never feel secure and are always under constant fear of losing their wealth and power and therefore continue grabbing more and more. The very fresh case is that of Ms Mayawati, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, India. An ordinary school teacher has reached to this position which by itself is very commendable and is possible in a Democracy only. What is disturbing is the fact that she has amassed huge wealth and does not stop multiplying it by all means, fair or faul. She claims that all her wealth is legal gifts from her Party workers and admirers. She spends huge monies from Public exchequer to build her statues and that of her mentor Mr Kansi Ram., the founder of her Party ,Bahujan Samaj Party. She collects money for allotting tickets for election, for her Birth days and she does it with all pomp and show least caring about the people or the media or the law.
So we have three categories of people who accumulate wealth :
1. For their genuine needs.
2. For their inflated egos and for their next generation.
3. For the fear of losing wealth or power.
“Sai itna dijiye, ja me dowoo smaya,
Ghar bhi bhooka na rahe, panthi na bhooka jaye”
(God ! give me so much as to satisfy the hunger of both,
my family and any passerby)
It is only fair that anything over and above the above should be used for public good. One should act as a custodian of the wealth he has earned by fair means and not the squanderer. We should thank God for having granted the capabilities to be more fortunate than many. You will be the sole decider of how much is enough for you.
H. P. Lakhera
Delhi, March 18, 2010.
Leo Tolstoy in his story “How Much land Does a Man Need” seems to convey that a man does not need more than six feet long and may be three feet wide land for his grave. Greed drives a simple peasant to accept a proposal to own as much land as he can cover in a day from day break to sunset with the condition that he has to return to the starting point before sunset. Greed takes him to as far as he thought he can cover but by the time he returns to the starting point he is totally exhausted and falls dead on the ground. He is buried there itself.
Seen in this context, it is rather difficult to understand why people accumulate vast wealth in form of landed properties, stocks, cash, jewellery etc. It is true that a man needs only six feet by six feet land if to be burried and not even that if to be cremated after his death but the issue is not that simple during his life time. In some communities burial/cremation expenses have become so exhorbitant that even death seems to be a very costly proposition. Some guys make financial arrangements for all such expenses before their death. It is not however of little consequence after one is dead be it prestige or peace or heavenly journey or any which name we would like to call it. Thousands of people die and get buried /cremated without any rites whatsoever.
The question, therefore is how much is enough? I officially retired at the age of 58 as per company rules and was given 8 six monthly extentions and finally allowed to retire at the age of 62. My employers wanted me to continue as long as my health permitted but I had different take and they had to accept my request. The CMD remarked “you seem to have enough savings” to which I replied “Sir, ‘enough’ has different meaning for different people. I think I have enough to sail through for rest of my life. I want to visit various places which I would not be in a position to do with all the official work to attend to. I would not like to make commitments that I can not fulfill. We have equally efficient people in our team who can take over anytime. One of them must get the opportunity.” He smiled and we shook hands.
Well I have no regrets. I have been in a position to maintain the same standard of living I was used to . In fact, during the last 7 years after retirement I have been in a position to visit various places of tourist and religious importance . I have been in a position to visit my grand children 4 times in the USA and stayed with them for as long as six months in a very carefree environment. It would not have been possible if I had official commitments staring at me from a distance.
This may be okay for me but not for many. Some may have unmarried sons or daughters. Some may have no roof over their heads. Some may have no savings at all. Some may be facing health problems. People take up jobs after retirement to supplement their income in order to live a comfortable life and meet other obligations.
There are people for whom enough is never enough when it comes to wealth and comforts. A friend of mine has a Maruti Swift but he is worried that he does not have money to buy a Toyota Innova. The other friend wants a large house with a swimming pool. This satisfies their ego. They also want to secure the future of their nextr generation.
Then there are people who never feel secure and are always under constant fear of losing their wealth and power and therefore continue grabbing more and more. The very fresh case is that of Ms Mayawati, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, India. An ordinary school teacher has reached to this position which by itself is very commendable and is possible in a Democracy only. What is disturbing is the fact that she has amassed huge wealth and does not stop multiplying it by all means, fair or faul. She claims that all her wealth is legal gifts from her Party workers and admirers. She spends huge monies from Public exchequer to build her statues and that of her mentor Mr Kansi Ram., the founder of her Party ,Bahujan Samaj Party. She collects money for allotting tickets for election, for her Birth days and she does it with all pomp and show least caring about the people or the media or the law.
So we have three categories of people who accumulate wealth :
1. For their genuine needs.
2. For their inflated egos and for their next generation.
3. For the fear of losing wealth or power.
“Sai itna dijiye, ja me dowoo smaya,
Ghar bhi bhooka na rahe, panthi na bhooka jaye”
(God ! give me so much as to satisfy the hunger of both,
my family and any passerby)
It is only fair that anything over and above the above should be used for public good. One should act as a custodian of the wealth he has earned by fair means and not the squanderer. We should thank God for having granted the capabilities to be more fortunate than many. You will be the sole decider of how much is enough for you.
H. P. Lakhera
Delhi, March 18, 2010.
COMMONWEALTH GAMES OR NATIONAL SHAME ?
COMMONWEALTH GAMES OR NATIONAL SHAME?
A few weeks from now India will be hosting at Delhi the Commonwealth Games 2010. The event is already marred with the allegations of financial irregularities involving the high and mighty of the Organizing Committee.
The scam seems to be too huge. Names of some foreigners, connected with Commonwealth Games Federation have sprung up giving it an international dimension. Millions of dollars seem to have changed hands and many more people may be unduly benefited from the loot
I t is a delicate issue. On the one hand we have this enormous job in hand to organize the games successfully and for that removing the people at the helm of the affairs at this stage may prove fatal as any replacement at such a short notice may not be possible or may not deliver the goods. National prestige will get a beating. Already there are reports of games tickets not finding buyers and Hotel and Guesthouses getting little response. Thousands of crores of Rupees have already been spent for the event.
There seems to be a valid reason for a thorough enquiry into the whole issue and exemplary punishment to the people found guilty. The question is should the enquiry be held now or it can be postponed till the games are over. There have been some efforts by the authorities blaming the media for making hue and cry and thus lowering the prestige of the Country in the eyes of world community. Some have even gone to the extent of calling them unpatriotic
On the other hand, punishing the culprits is much bigger issue than the games. Games will come and go but if the culprits go scot free, in future too organizers will be tempted to do bigger loot. . Giving time to these culprits will only help them to falsify records further and find some scapegoats. It seems the Govt. too is soft peddling the issue and trying to shield the Chairman of the Organizing Committee.
A few weeks from now India will be hosting at Delhi the Commonwealth Games 2010. The event is already marred with the allegations of financial irregularities involving the high and mighty of the Organizing Committee.
The scam seems to be too huge. Names of some foreigners, connected with Commonwealth Games Federation have sprung up giving it an international dimension. Millions of dollars seem to have changed hands and many more people may be unduly benefited from the loot
I t is a delicate issue. On the one hand we have this enormous job in hand to organize the games successfully and for that removing the people at the helm of the affairs at this stage may prove fatal as any replacement at such a short notice may not be possible or may not deliver the goods. National prestige will get a beating. Already there are reports of games tickets not finding buyers and Hotel and Guesthouses getting little response. Thousands of crores of Rupees have already been spent for the event.
There seems to be a valid reason for a thorough enquiry into the whole issue and exemplary punishment to the people found guilty. The question is should the enquiry be held now or it can be postponed till the games are over. There have been some efforts by the authorities blaming the media for making hue and cry and thus lowering the prestige of the Country in the eyes of world community. Some have even gone to the extent of calling them unpatriotic
On the other hand, punishing the culprits is much bigger issue than the games. Games will come and go but if the culprits go scot free, in future too organizers will be tempted to do bigger loot. . Giving time to these culprits will only help them to falsify records further and find some scapegoats. It seems the Govt. too is soft peddling the issue and trying to shield the Chairman of the Organizing Committee.
IDOL IMMERSION
IDOL IMMERSION
India celebrates a number of festivals round the year but some of our very important festivals fall during the months from August to November namely Ganapathi in Western India, Durga Pooja in Eastern India and Deshera in North India, Diwali in whole if In India. There are many other regional festivals round the year like Baishakhi, Onam, Pongal, Bihu, and Holi.
I would however like to limit discussions on the subject of idol immersion in the rivers and sea. It is common knowledge that thousands of Ganesa idols are immersed on the Mumbai beaches and various rivers in Maharashtra every year. Similarly thousands of Durga idols are immersed in River Hooghly in Kolkata and other rivers of West Bengal. There may other such festivals.
The soil and colors not only pollute the water but the silt deposit also increases the risk of river flooding the villages, towns and cities on its way. It is rather impossible to desilt the riverbed of Hooghly in Kolkata, Yamuna in Delhi and Ganga in Kanpur.
We are a Nation of Idol worshippers and we are proud of our traditions. Idol worshipping is considered much effective for the purpose of concentration. It was probably okay when the population of the Country was no so huge and our rivers and seas were not so highly clogged with all sorts of refuse and garbage into them. Situation today is much different. We are a population of over 1.3 billion and almost 85% of it worships idols in one form or the other. Tons of waste material is already dumped into the rivers and seas.
Immersing the idols after the festivals are over only aggravates the already worsening situation. Tons of soil and harmful industrial colors are used for the making of the idols and eventually dumped into the rivers.
Would it not be more prudent to conserve the idols for as many years as possible rather than worship and throw. The idols can be made to last longer and can be used in coming year/years. This way we may help reduce the menace of silt deposit in the rivers and sea banks. I know a few friends who have installed Gold, Silver of cheaper metallic idols in their homes and not need to immerse them anymore. This may be a small step but if all of us who install Ganesha or Durga or any other idol at homes during festival times and immerse them after the festival is over, follow this practice, it will make a lot of difference.
Friends in Verdurez may have more effective solutions.
India celebrates a number of festivals round the year but some of our very important festivals fall during the months from August to November namely Ganapathi in Western India, Durga Pooja in Eastern India and Deshera in North India, Diwali in whole if In India. There are many other regional festivals round the year like Baishakhi, Onam, Pongal, Bihu, and Holi.
I would however like to limit discussions on the subject of idol immersion in the rivers and sea. It is common knowledge that thousands of Ganesa idols are immersed on the Mumbai beaches and various rivers in Maharashtra every year. Similarly thousands of Durga idols are immersed in River Hooghly in Kolkata and other rivers of West Bengal. There may other such festivals.
The soil and colors not only pollute the water but the silt deposit also increases the risk of river flooding the villages, towns and cities on its way. It is rather impossible to desilt the riverbed of Hooghly in Kolkata, Yamuna in Delhi and Ganga in Kanpur.
We are a Nation of Idol worshippers and we are proud of our traditions. Idol worshipping is considered much effective for the purpose of concentration. It was probably okay when the population of the Country was no so huge and our rivers and seas were not so highly clogged with all sorts of refuse and garbage into them. Situation today is much different. We are a population of over 1.3 billion and almost 85% of it worships idols in one form or the other. Tons of waste material is already dumped into the rivers and seas.
Immersing the idols after the festivals are over only aggravates the already worsening situation. Tons of soil and harmful industrial colors are used for the making of the idols and eventually dumped into the rivers.
Would it not be more prudent to conserve the idols for as many years as possible rather than worship and throw. The idols can be made to last longer and can be used in coming year/years. This way we may help reduce the menace of silt deposit in the rivers and sea banks. I know a few friends who have installed Gold, Silver of cheaper metallic idols in their homes and not need to immerse them anymore. This may be a small step but if all of us who install Ganesha or Durga or any other idol at homes during festival times and immerse them after the festival is over, follow this practice, it will make a lot of difference.
Friends in Verdurez may have more effective solutions.
WHO CARES ?
WHO CARES?
There are two types of individuals in our society who react in the following ways:
1.”they say, what they say? Ok I will take care”
2. ‘They say, what they say? Let them say”
Basically we are always conscious of what others think about the way we talk or behave. The very foundations of our society are standing on the values systems we choose for ourselves and that include respect for each other. We willingly or unwillingly do not want to hurt anybody’s feelings. We do not speak a spade a spade just because we feel it may hurt someone and our relations with that person might be constrained forever. We try to be politically correct with our friends, relations, collogue and even with our family members.
Such people are very cautious in their personal life also. They do not, at least in public, do or talk what is not acceptable in a civilized society. If someone tells them about what others think about him, particular negative, they promise to be careful in future.
Then there are people who speak their mind out least bothered about the feelings of others. They think it is better to speak in front of rather behind the person concerned. In personal life also they are not bothered about what others think about them. Their stock reply is ‘let them say’.
The ratio of the second category of individuals is on the increase. Have a look around and we find boys and girls dressed up in a way that was not acceptable a few years back. They talk loudly, they are indifferent if not rude to others and family values are no more sacrosanct. They do not vacate seats reserved for ladies or seniors or handicapped. They openly float traffic rules. There is frequent road rage, fights in discotheques. The worst part is they do not what others say.
People of the first category are considered impractical if not stupid.
There are two types of individuals in our society who react in the following ways:
1.”they say, what they say? Ok I will take care”
2. ‘They say, what they say? Let them say”
Basically we are always conscious of what others think about the way we talk or behave. The very foundations of our society are standing on the values systems we choose for ourselves and that include respect for each other. We willingly or unwillingly do not want to hurt anybody’s feelings. We do not speak a spade a spade just because we feel it may hurt someone and our relations with that person might be constrained forever. We try to be politically correct with our friends, relations, collogue and even with our family members.
Such people are very cautious in their personal life also. They do not, at least in public, do or talk what is not acceptable in a civilized society. If someone tells them about what others think about him, particular negative, they promise to be careful in future.
Then there are people who speak their mind out least bothered about the feelings of others. They think it is better to speak in front of rather behind the person concerned. In personal life also they are not bothered about what others think about them. Their stock reply is ‘let them say’.
The ratio of the second category of individuals is on the increase. Have a look around and we find boys and girls dressed up in a way that was not acceptable a few years back. They talk loudly, they are indifferent if not rude to others and family values are no more sacrosanct. They do not vacate seats reserved for ladies or seniors or handicapped. They openly float traffic rules. There is frequent road rage, fights in discotheques. The worst part is they do not what others say.
People of the first category are considered impractical if not stupid.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
WALKING IN THE MORNING-THE COLORS OF LIFE
12. WALKING IN THE MORNING….THE COLORS OF LIFE
Chitragupta Park is full of life particularly in the morning hours. Life has many colors which manifest differently for different people. Humans are endowed with tremendous amount of energy and no where it is seen better than in the Chitrgupata Park or any such other Parks.
THE DO GOODERS:
Some of us have the gift of using our our resources for the benefit of the society and fellow creatures. Chitragupt Park is also indebted to such noble souls who devote their time, money and energy for the good of the other people and living beings. It is believed that good deeds of this life are rewarded in the next life. Our Karmas in this life decide our condition in next birth. All Hindus are made to believe in the cycle of birth and rebirth and the only way out to achieve Nirvana (freedom from this cycle) is through good deeds in this birth.
One such family or group of friends is engaged in the free distribution of petha (a fruit from the melon family) juice, green tea and Neem twigs. Petha juice is good for diabetics. So is green tea. Neem twigs are used as dental cleaners. Neem in its various forms is used as medicines and is considered a good blood purifier. The members of the group ladies and children included, come early in the morning in their USV with all the material and employ themselves in cutting the fruit , extracting the juice and offering it to the waiting public. They start at 6 a. m. and continue up to 8 a.m. tirelessly. Their proclaimed motto is “serving the seniors is the greatest worship”. Some members offer green tea. They put the Neem twigs in a container for the use of morning walkers. They distribute all these items free. They have however kept a donation box and those willing can drop some money in it but there is no demand.
There are other gentlemen also who bring Neem twigs. Brushing the teeth with Neem twigs is age old tradition in rural India is considered very higenic and effective dental cleaner. The Neem twigs have been replaced by modern tooth brushes and toothe paste but some people still use them.
One senior citizen couple has taken upon themselves to fill the earthen pots with water and keep around the park for birds to drink. The first thing when they enter the Park they collect the pots, fill them with fresh water and place them at different parts of the park.
A few noble souls bring grains for bird feed. Some bring food for the stay dogs. There is this desire to do well.
THE SATSANGIES:
“Guru” (The Religious Preacher) is considered greater than God because it is through the blessings of Guru that one can know about God. This belief has turned millions of Indians in the pursuit of finding a suitable Guru who may help them to realize God and thereby Nirvana. There are thousands of Gurus to satisfy this cultural need. Such gatherings are known as Satsang (assembly of truth seekers)
Chitragupta Park does not have the benefit of the blessings of renowned Gurus but the as I said there is no dearth of Gurus. There is one such Guru, fondly called “Guruji” in Chitragupta Park too. He is about 75 years old but quite healthy and active for this age. His devotees come at about 5.30 am, spread the Ashana for the Guru and clothe sheets for themselves. Their Satsang starts with the Guru Mantra “Gurudev Namah” (salutation to Guru) and is followed by bhajans, mostly penned and composed to music by Guruji. Guruji arrives at about 6 am. And joins in the Bhajans for some time. The Satsang ends with the discourse by the Guruji on some topic of everyday life and how we should conduct ourselves. Guruji has a following of some 25/30 people. I have a feeling that the devotees offer some Dakshina(offerings) to Guruji in kind or cash.
THE OTHER SATSANGIES:
At the corner of the park exactly parallel to the corner where the above Satsangies sit, there is this group of senior citizens who talk loudly. In North India, particularly Punjabis speak a language full of #@$%#%$#@ and this has now become the language of many. Even kids utter these words in normal communication. For a few of us not brought up in this culture, it is annoying and culturally shocking but for most it is just another way of expressing their love. This group starts with just such words and concludes with such words. They share adult jokes and do care a little who is listening. Once or twice I have seen Guruji asking them not to disturb his assembly. It does seem to have some effect as they are not that loud now.
It is however a contrast of colors where one group talks all what is pure and sublime and the other group talks what can be termed as vulgar. Both the colors coexist.
THE CRICKET TEAMS:
Cricket is a passion in India. All over the country there are cricket enthusiasts be in Metros, cities or villages. It is a sport of the masses now. No wonder, therefore, that Chitragupta Park too has the presence of so many cricket enthusiasts in the morning particularly school kids and young boys. On both sides of the Central Park, there are play grounds but they overflow to the central Park only to be hushed away by the Yogis and Yogins, Satsangies, and other morning walkers. There are bill boards all around notifying “Playing Cricket etc is not allowed in the Park” but the greens of the Park are too inviting for a game of Cricket and hence the violation of the notification.
In addition to the established rules of the game there are some local rules such as the boundary limitations, number of overs etc. The amusing rule however is the batting and balling line up among the kids. The owner of the bat has the right to bat first and the owner of the ball will ball first. It is rather a matter of discretion if the owner of the bat or ball can be given out. In extreme provocation they may walk away with the bat or the ball as the case may be. They call the shots. Hard ball is no no because it may damage the bat. Cricket bats are costly and must long last before the parents agree for a replacement. Cricket balls also do not come cheap and has all the chances of being lost in the thick bushes. There are some poor kids in the team who cannot afford the bat or the ball and therefore have to accept the placing at the far end of the field to stop runs. Their chance of balling or batting comes the last.
Difference of opinion about an out decision or a no ball may end into stoppage of the game itself if the player involved is the owner of the bat or the ball. Such difference may also end up in little fights. But kids will always be kids. Next day at the same time one can find them grouping for another game of Cricket. Unfortunately there have been a few cases of the fights gone violent and resulted into death too.
A short description of Chetragupta Park in the evening will be apt here before I close the subject. The Park is full of evening walkers, most of them being morning walkers also. The only difference is that this time instead of yoga sessions, there are cards or chess sessions. Some of the players come immediately after lunch and stay till sunset. They are engrossed in the play. Some of them play with stakes too. There are occasional fights too. Mostly it is friendly.
There are some old ladies singing bhajans.
Chitragupta Park mat mean different to different people. The one who come for a walk or yoga or satsang or gossip or cards or chess or philanthropy or simply drinking alcohol in the late evening when it is dark or those who use it as an office or who come simply to rest.
Chitragupta Park is full of life particularly in the morning hours. Life has many colors which manifest differently for different people. Humans are endowed with tremendous amount of energy and no where it is seen better than in the Chitrgupata Park or any such other Parks.
THE DO GOODERS:
Some of us have the gift of using our our resources for the benefit of the society and fellow creatures. Chitragupt Park is also indebted to such noble souls who devote their time, money and energy for the good of the other people and living beings. It is believed that good deeds of this life are rewarded in the next life. Our Karmas in this life decide our condition in next birth. All Hindus are made to believe in the cycle of birth and rebirth and the only way out to achieve Nirvana (freedom from this cycle) is through good deeds in this birth.
One such family or group of friends is engaged in the free distribution of petha (a fruit from the melon family) juice, green tea and Neem twigs. Petha juice is good for diabetics. So is green tea. Neem twigs are used as dental cleaners. Neem in its various forms is used as medicines and is considered a good blood purifier. The members of the group ladies and children included, come early in the morning in their USV with all the material and employ themselves in cutting the fruit , extracting the juice and offering it to the waiting public. They start at 6 a. m. and continue up to 8 a.m. tirelessly. Their proclaimed motto is “serving the seniors is the greatest worship”. Some members offer green tea. They put the Neem twigs in a container for the use of morning walkers. They distribute all these items free. They have however kept a donation box and those willing can drop some money in it but there is no demand.
There are other gentlemen also who bring Neem twigs. Brushing the teeth with Neem twigs is age old tradition in rural India is considered very higenic and effective dental cleaner. The Neem twigs have been replaced by modern tooth brushes and toothe paste but some people still use them.
One senior citizen couple has taken upon themselves to fill the earthen pots with water and keep around the park for birds to drink. The first thing when they enter the Park they collect the pots, fill them with fresh water and place them at different parts of the park.
A few noble souls bring grains for bird feed. Some bring food for the stay dogs. There is this desire to do well.
THE SATSANGIES:
“Guru” (The Religious Preacher) is considered greater than God because it is through the blessings of Guru that one can know about God. This belief has turned millions of Indians in the pursuit of finding a suitable Guru who may help them to realize God and thereby Nirvana. There are thousands of Gurus to satisfy this cultural need. Such gatherings are known as Satsang (assembly of truth seekers)
Chitragupta Park does not have the benefit of the blessings of renowned Gurus but the as I said there is no dearth of Gurus. There is one such Guru, fondly called “Guruji” in Chitragupta Park too. He is about 75 years old but quite healthy and active for this age. His devotees come at about 5.30 am, spread the Ashana for the Guru and clothe sheets for themselves. Their Satsang starts with the Guru Mantra “Gurudev Namah” (salutation to Guru) and is followed by bhajans, mostly penned and composed to music by Guruji. Guruji arrives at about 6 am. And joins in the Bhajans for some time. The Satsang ends with the discourse by the Guruji on some topic of everyday life and how we should conduct ourselves. Guruji has a following of some 25/30 people. I have a feeling that the devotees offer some Dakshina(offerings) to Guruji in kind or cash.
THE OTHER SATSANGIES:
At the corner of the park exactly parallel to the corner where the above Satsangies sit, there is this group of senior citizens who talk loudly. In North India, particularly Punjabis speak a language full of #@$%#%$#@ and this has now become the language of many. Even kids utter these words in normal communication. For a few of us not brought up in this culture, it is annoying and culturally shocking but for most it is just another way of expressing their love. This group starts with just such words and concludes with such words. They share adult jokes and do care a little who is listening. Once or twice I have seen Guruji asking them not to disturb his assembly. It does seem to have some effect as they are not that loud now.
It is however a contrast of colors where one group talks all what is pure and sublime and the other group talks what can be termed as vulgar. Both the colors coexist.
THE CRICKET TEAMS:
Cricket is a passion in India. All over the country there are cricket enthusiasts be in Metros, cities or villages. It is a sport of the masses now. No wonder, therefore, that Chitragupta Park too has the presence of so many cricket enthusiasts in the morning particularly school kids and young boys. On both sides of the Central Park, there are play grounds but they overflow to the central Park only to be hushed away by the Yogis and Yogins, Satsangies, and other morning walkers. There are bill boards all around notifying “Playing Cricket etc is not allowed in the Park” but the greens of the Park are too inviting for a game of Cricket and hence the violation of the notification.
In addition to the established rules of the game there are some local rules such as the boundary limitations, number of overs etc. The amusing rule however is the batting and balling line up among the kids. The owner of the bat has the right to bat first and the owner of the ball will ball first. It is rather a matter of discretion if the owner of the bat or ball can be given out. In extreme provocation they may walk away with the bat or the ball as the case may be. They call the shots. Hard ball is no no because it may damage the bat. Cricket bats are costly and must long last before the parents agree for a replacement. Cricket balls also do not come cheap and has all the chances of being lost in the thick bushes. There are some poor kids in the team who cannot afford the bat or the ball and therefore have to accept the placing at the far end of the field to stop runs. Their chance of balling or batting comes the last.
Difference of opinion about an out decision or a no ball may end into stoppage of the game itself if the player involved is the owner of the bat or the ball. Such difference may also end up in little fights. But kids will always be kids. Next day at the same time one can find them grouping for another game of Cricket. Unfortunately there have been a few cases of the fights gone violent and resulted into death too.
A short description of Chetragupta Park in the evening will be apt here before I close the subject. The Park is full of evening walkers, most of them being morning walkers also. The only difference is that this time instead of yoga sessions, there are cards or chess sessions. Some of the players come immediately after lunch and stay till sunset. They are engrossed in the play. Some of them play with stakes too. There are occasional fights too. Mostly it is friendly.
There are some old ladies singing bhajans.
Chitragupta Park mat mean different to different people. The one who come for a walk or yoga or satsang or gossip or cards or chess or philanthropy or simply drinking alcohol in the late evening when it is dark or those who use it as an office or who come simply to rest.
WALKING IN THE MORNING-THE YOGA CENTERS
11. WALKING IN THE MORNING….THE YOGA CENTERS
The serene environment of Chitragupta Park in the morning is the perfect place for exercising both the body and the mind. There are a few regular groups performing various types of Ashanas(postures) and Pranayams(breathing exercises). Two of these groups have a gathering of over 50 practitioners on any given day. Then there are smaller groups or even individuals performing yogic exercises at different places in the Park.
Yoga exercises have become very popular these days. Thanks to Swami Ramdev. Ramkishan Yadav (date of birth unknown) popularly known as Swami Ramdev is an Indian. He is particularly known for his efforts in popularizing Yoga as it is enunciated in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. He is also one of the founders of the Divya Yog Mandir Trust headquartered in Haridwar that aims to popularize Yoga and offer Ayurvedic treatment
His camps are attended by a large number of people. Over 85 million people follow his yoga camps via TV channels and video. His yoga teaching sessions are for the masses and free for all. His stated principle in life is to be of help to everybody.
Yoga refers to physical and mental exercises. The Sanskrit word Yoga has many meanings and is derived from the Sanskrit root “yuj” meaning “to control” “to yoke” or “to unite”. It includes joining, uniting, union, conjunction, contemplation and absorption. Someone who practices yoga or follows the yoga philosophy to a high level of attainment is called a yogi or yogini.
There are many Yoga teaching organization in India but Swami Ramdev has made it simple and hence popular. Yoga includes various breathing exercises like “kapal Bhati” (exaling through the nostrils and pushing the stomach at the same time), “Anulom –Vilom” (inhaling through the right nostril and exaling from the left nostril and repeating the same through left nostril and exaling from the right nostril), “Bhramari” (closing the ear buds and humming like a bee). Yoga exercises with some medicines are suppose to cure some ailments like blood pressure, heart ailments, diabetes, obesity, asthma, back pains, etc.
Thousands of people have been trained in his organization and they in turn are conducting yoga classes in various parts of the country and abroad. There are at least five such yoga groups in Chitrgupa Park. In addition there are other Yoga centers conducting yoga classes in the Park.
Like Swami Ramdev’s organization all other organizations also popularize Aurvedic medicines produced or marketed by them. No wonder, therefore that there is always a subtle hint to buy these medicines for the treatment of various ailments.
Divya Yog Trust of Swami Ramdev runs an Aurvedic Hospital at Haridwar. All the medicines are produced by the trust. In less than ten years it has become one of the richest Trusts in India. Joining a Yoga Camp may cost anywhere between Rs 7000/- to Rs 11,00,000. Though the treatment at the Hospital is not very costly but overall cost including stay and food is quite high.
Coming to Yoga Groups of Chitragupta Park, there is no denying the fact that there are hundreds of yoga enthusiasts who religiously come early in the morning, take part in the yoga exercises and get healed.
The serene environment of Chitragupta Park in the morning is the perfect place for exercising both the body and the mind. There are a few regular groups performing various types of Ashanas(postures) and Pranayams(breathing exercises). Two of these groups have a gathering of over 50 practitioners on any given day. Then there are smaller groups or even individuals performing yogic exercises at different places in the Park.
Yoga exercises have become very popular these days. Thanks to Swami Ramdev. Ramkishan Yadav (date of birth unknown) popularly known as Swami Ramdev is an Indian. He is particularly known for his efforts in popularizing Yoga as it is enunciated in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. He is also one of the founders of the Divya Yog Mandir Trust headquartered in Haridwar that aims to popularize Yoga and offer Ayurvedic treatment
His camps are attended by a large number of people. Over 85 million people follow his yoga camps via TV channels and video. His yoga teaching sessions are for the masses and free for all. His stated principle in life is to be of help to everybody.
Yoga refers to physical and mental exercises. The Sanskrit word Yoga has many meanings and is derived from the Sanskrit root “yuj” meaning “to control” “to yoke” or “to unite”. It includes joining, uniting, union, conjunction, contemplation and absorption. Someone who practices yoga or follows the yoga philosophy to a high level of attainment is called a yogi or yogini.
There are many Yoga teaching organization in India but Swami Ramdev has made it simple and hence popular. Yoga includes various breathing exercises like “kapal Bhati” (exaling through the nostrils and pushing the stomach at the same time), “Anulom –Vilom” (inhaling through the right nostril and exaling from the left nostril and repeating the same through left nostril and exaling from the right nostril), “Bhramari” (closing the ear buds and humming like a bee). Yoga exercises with some medicines are suppose to cure some ailments like blood pressure, heart ailments, diabetes, obesity, asthma, back pains, etc.
Thousands of people have been trained in his organization and they in turn are conducting yoga classes in various parts of the country and abroad. There are at least five such yoga groups in Chitrgupa Park. In addition there are other Yoga centers conducting yoga classes in the Park.
Like Swami Ramdev’s organization all other organizations also popularize Aurvedic medicines produced or marketed by them. No wonder, therefore that there is always a subtle hint to buy these medicines for the treatment of various ailments.
Divya Yog Trust of Swami Ramdev runs an Aurvedic Hospital at Haridwar. All the medicines are produced by the trust. In less than ten years it has become one of the richest Trusts in India. Joining a Yoga Camp may cost anywhere between Rs 7000/- to Rs 11,00,000. Though the treatment at the Hospital is not very costly but overall cost including stay and food is quite high.
Coming to Yoga Groups of Chitragupta Park, there is no denying the fact that there are hundreds of yoga enthusiasts who religiously come early in the morning, take part in the yoga exercises and get healed.
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