This Life..Miraculous Life

My son Shravan was born 4 months back. And with his birth, has yet again dawned the realization of how miraculous this universe, this Earth, Nature, and especially our Life is.


Small things about how Life portrays itself, through my son's actions and behaviors, have left me in awe. When he was born, he was was this bundle of chubby cheeks, dimpled chin, rosy lips, and sweet little hands and legs, popping out of mummy! Just that evening his position was not right (head-down), and I'd prayed to the miraculous Sun-God for a normal delivery. How did the baby hear..

Just as they say, he was crying like anything immediately after being born, when they were cleaning him up, and I, was smiling, happy as never before. As a lactation later said, if you'd ask him then, where he'd prefer to me, it would be back in the mother's cozy womb.

And just like the medical staff had told us, when he's consoled and placed on his mother, he instinctively knows his way to her breast, and to suck milk off it. Where there was none before..nature had nurtured a conceived-life into the cute baby boy inside Jyothi, so how it produced milk when that child came out, was in comparison the least surprising..

Shravan's hunger cues will always remain fond in our memories. The boxing-action and the side-to-side head-jerks, wow! I don't know if we've got it video-recorded, but doesn't matter, that's only for memories we could forget.. :-)

Time's flying by. I've always kept telling him, let time go slow, but he keeps making sure he grows fast. Each day brings us a new joy. He used to smile in sleep, and now he smiles in recognition. Both are most beautiful to watch. He's trying to converse, to his best possible ability right now at 3+ months, a baby talk which is a mix of cooing and babbling. But the best is when he communicates through body language. Each twitch, lip expression, eyebrow movements, leave us wondering who taught him all this! But still knows the best way to demand, is cry out loud! :)

Shravan still bundles his hands and legs into a small cute package, but also is active a lot other times; kicking and moving hands. He's turning over now, but is still scared to turn back after that. :-)He loves his massage. Bathing, on and off, but always loves the water on his body. To take a step back and think, the baby was in a water environment when inside his mother. With birth on Earth, came the ability to breathe.

He loves the same things in nature as we do: the greenery, the water, the light and wind. These, I'm sure, have lasted longer in his soul through past births, than the parents and others he sees now. Through him, I see what a gift Life is, and our time here. I see how powerfully we all are equipped, right from birth. And how nature gives birth to the parental instinct, when the child is conceived, and then born. How life gives the parent enough time to watch each step of the baby grow, while all the time nurturing the growing child with complex physical, physiological, emotional and mental powers.

It dawns on me, nature has a purpose for us. For each of us. She invests so much in us, has gifted us with so many qualities, and the most important of qualities, to instrospect and change! Makes me realize, that just as with any gift, life is a responsibility! To search for and fulfill our unique purpose in this lifetime, is what will give the soul peace.

Talent Blooming Late

And far out, a talent was blooming late
One that would become a force to reckon

He had kept searching a meaning to life
Kept saying to others, but forgot to listen
That this purpose forever had lay within

Something that I would do for free
Is writing, but yes, oh why indeed
And missing am I, in lack of this deed
Did my son just reveal, the secret is this

A passion to write, be it verse or word
Is God-given, and language, only a medium
True joy lies not, in hours of sleep
It lies in joy felt, at the hour of sleep

This Journey with my Child

My baby dear, my first born child
Is it really me, that created you
Or were you born, of that bright light
which created us, made all the rules

You are not me, but still a part of me
And of more value, than me the whole

To protect you, why this instinct in me
For are you not, just another soul

A journey I began, that you will start
Or is it just, a single thread
I will continue Life, just in your heart

A journey strange, is life and death
And how each being, came to evolve
All these instincts, this complex thought
Why are we living, purpose bereft

So baby dear, I welcome you back
For I must know, you were once here
I hope to help, your search as mine
Is achieved in full, with us hand in hand

Unfinished..

In the darkness of the night, while my wife and child sleep
I sit here brooding, thinking, instrospecting
Call it whatever your mind suits
In temples I'd been, and received great bliss
Generations of souls had venerated greats powers in these
But answers lie empty, my role unfulfilled
If a purpose, a path is shown, I would readily tread

Of what use an existence where there is no purpose
what is left behind, to remember me by
Fame and recognition is what I aspire
Footprints left in progress of time and life...

Krishna

Under the blue moonlit sky
Coloring the water and ambience in blue
My Krishna your temple bells
Are the very sounds of the environ around

Walking by the giggling river
Soft grass caressing my feet
When all one can think of is embracing one's love
Dear Krishna how did you live separated from Radha

A beautiful night, sweet breeze blowing by
Further cooling the sandal-paste on my forehead
And intoxicating fragrance of the Raat-rani flowers
Reminds me Krishna, what bliss would be like

I feel like laying down, where am I hurrying to
Breathe in the life, a gift I am born to
And then immersing it in, closing my eyes
Playful Krishna, I'll finally embrace you

Poetry of Youth

Why do I miss, the poetry of my youth
One look at a girl, my heart would miss a beat
The sight of a green leaf, would make me pleased
Fresh fruits felt tasty, so did reaching them on trees
Even crowd and dust, not disturb inner peace

I would run hard, feel tired, yet be at bliss
Water felt like nectar, or was it really nectar
The air had a fragrance, with no flowers around
Reading and writing felt ecstatic, as only simple pleasures can

No, it wasn't love, that caused the happiness I felt
I know the age was 24, when contentment met
I think I know the reason now, it has lay within
I feel I was in touch, with my very self and being

Lazy to Pursue?

Of late I have thought, where gone this love to write
To Put pen to paper, to look around and smile
The art is there, the ideas come
But lazy to sit, have I become?

My aims crystallize, my family flowers
As god-send the purpose, I was born at last
But still at distance, is the cause I crave
At least a family, I have as keepsake

Verses for the Day

From ashes rises a phoenix
I thought a lot of the meaning
And then realized that for true change
We must first destroy the old

No point in going fast
When the next light could well catch
Have an aim and goal
But know that life could fall short

I looked at the mirror, and keep looking at it
Sat down to write, but wondered why
There has to be, surely a deeper reason
Why I came, I looked, sat down to write


Rakshasa, dear Rakshasa, you exist within me
As Ravana, in Ramayana, you play your role with ease
I need be good, I need be evil, and evil you are in me
For only good, and only evil, will leave the world diseased


I understand this world, this nature, this existence
They why this self-doubt, this safekeep, this hold back
A purpose fulfilled, is what gives most peace
Not money, not progress, not relations we upkeep

A Single Life

To kick a stone, to crack a twig
Wherever went, fun of life alone
Simple pleasures, to read and write
Down to earth, but dreams abound

I climbed a tree, I ran afree
I swam a sea, I sped alike
A single life, needs know no fear
What is now called, lack of maturity

Why Free Market perhaps is the Right Way to be..for Health Care

There is currently the huge debate of health care embroiling America. And I've thought through of the battle of the ideal versus the practical. To put it briefly, the president's health care law aims at providing coverage for those without. But the main counter-argument to this is, but what if they cannot afford it? Now the government proposes, albeit obscurely, that innovative means would cover for that. All the while reasserting, that those with insurance currently will not see their premiums increasing. But popular, and pragmatic logic, says otherwise. Including the insurance providers who'll have to cover those newly added.

It is easy to be initially pained by the numbers. 15 percent of the country is uninsured. Many of them, children, the torch-bearers for the country's future. A government exists to look out for its citizens, and if some are unfortunate in wealth, then at least very basic needs of food, shelter, and health must be provided for by the government. If this implies, that part of this cost is borne by those more fortunate, then so be it. It'd be like applying a higher rate of tax for covering those uninsured.

But the counter-argument exists that such a cost cannot be afforded by the country. We have seen communism collapse in the past, as do we see socialist countries today in Europe. The law of free market is the law of nature: Survival of the fittest. If you try to kill the snake to protect the frog, the ecosystem would collapse. The only reason America is the most powerful and richest country of its time, is because it adheres to this law to the fullest. The system is there: public schools, infrastructure, lack of corruption, and a government that encourages entrepreneurship and innovation. If a person does not make use of these opportunities and falters in life, why should the hard-worker bear this person's expenses, including health insurance. And popular vote will resist it; only government will and leadership willing to flow against the tide can make this happen. And in a democracy where popular vote elects its government, the opposition is bound to come to power and overturn such a direction. If the government wants to avoid this, it takes up the cost, adjusting it by some means, which in the long run will be eyewash, as much of government revenue is taxes in income (individual or business). The other easy-way-out for the government is to push this cost to the private sector. But a private business exists for profit, and will certainly push costs to the end consumer by means of increase in premium for existing members. Which is what we are looking at right now.

Cruel though it is, perhaps life was never meant to be this way. And you just have to look at nature to know that as I said before. A government's primary responsibility is to ensure the country's survival. And if social committments come in the way, then a sacrifice to that respect has to take place. Basic needs could be food and shelter; health to be individual responsibility. Universal health coverage is not possible;dependants (children and hopefully seniors) can. Coverage to ensure immunization and hygiene (to avoid larger societal catastrophes due to epidemics), can.

All in all, the same rules apply to a country as to a business, in order to survive. Unless you innovate, you cannot survive. You have to let go of your weakest. Survival for the fittest, is indeed the undeniable law of nature, and as long as we live in nature, it will continue to reflect in our financial systems and social order.

Welcome Home (For my child written before he was born)

The sky is blue, a mesmerising blue
The grass is dark green, leaves light green
The water takes colour, of what falls on it
There is so much, I want to show you
In this Earth, that we are born to

Where you came from, I still can't answer
Where you will go, I cannot tell
But while here, I will show you
Of what God created, and what we know

There are huge mountains, there is brown earth
You can touch the dust, that created us
Walk on bare feet, as ancestors did
This mother patient, has borne us all

Given our food, provided shelter
Serving as bed, put her children to rest

There is the water, that immerses you in
Playful and cheery, with a gurgling grin
Can stick to you, yet not be held
You can consume, yet taste nothing

If there was nectar, water was it
I will bathe you, in its blessing and wealth

Then there is air, that you will breathe
Your first gulp defining, that you will live
And every deep breath, through heart and mind
Will throughout life, bring you a smile

And biggest of all, is the Sun God
Bright and golden, throughout the day
One look at it, and you will say
No matter what, I want to stay!

India Shining: 2 Things I Love and 2 Things that need to Change

A topic that seems to hold hope and relevance at the start of each decade. And why not, if these are visions from the unhibited dreams of a billion people in a free nation, albeit used to being part of a garrulous democracy.

Will our country truly be a superpower of this century (a shining India in the true sense of the term), that the world seems to be talking about and bracing for? Or will our biggest enemy, our very own internal conflicts, hold us back to the inevitable also-ran status? And that chain of thought makes me list the two things, in my opinion, that really need to change in India:

- Prevalence of Corruption: I'm sure this will be in the top 2 of all my blog buddies. I went back to the Transparency International Corruption Perception Index Ranking for India in the past 5 years. And no surprises, we all know this, a country currently in the top 10 in terms of GDP is 95th in terms of Transparency. Of what use is all the jingoism of patriotism and culture, when the core impulse seems to be to steal from our own brethren? The system may be partly to blame, for if there were no laws, the very nature of human behavior is to behave unpredictably, even wildly, causing chaos. So the fact that there is still room for corruption, is reflection of a systemic defect. But what surprised me, was that our ratings have been progressively been going down in the past 5 years. Perhaps reaching a tipping point last year when the 2G scam was exposed, leading to widespread public frustration and hence strong support for Anna Hazare's campaign. While we are still in the realm of numbers, we can perhaps also see in them the true reason why corruption exists i.e. per capita income. India ranks 127, and topped with the income inequality so evident in society, it is justification enough for even the most principled, that the greater good or in other words responsibility to family, overrides all. Well, our PPP does not have to be so bad just because of population, or China wouldn't be ranked 90, or the third populous USA be ranked 7! The cause for the income inequality as well as the low PPP is, guess what, corruption at the high-strata of society (in terms of power and income), an endless cycle perhaps? And wherein those in higher-strata of power are also responsible for the laws of the land, we see the direct connection wherein the intermingling of temptation and greed directly causes the laying out of half-hearted and weak foundations to check corruption. Lots been said of the amounts that have flown into tax havens instead of being invested in our nation. Yes, a nation getting more aware can vote to power the right candidates, so education and awareness are the groundwork. But all in all, a democracy still elects a set of individuals to represent us. And (easier said that done) unless there is a change of heart in at least most citizens, especially those in the high-strata of power, we will never get rid of corruption. If Anna Hazare's Lokpal can bear weight on the 80-20 rule, we may well check the major portion of it, and that would be progress itself.

- Lack of Unity: Despite all their shortcomings, the biggest contributions of Emperor Qin Shi (who ruled China from 221 to 210BC) and of former US President Abraham Lincoln, was to make their countries united. Of course there were falls and failures even after, but these men weaved a thread of unity so firm yet flexible, that it never has broken. And today, in the name of religion, our country lacks that unifying factor. A century ago, the iron hand and diplomatic shrewdness of the British rule kept our wounds unhealed, yet not let them fester. The struggle of Independance seemed to unify us, but we know how that curtailed volcano exploded in the bloodbath during partition. After independance, the caste and class structures, religion and sub-religious differences, state-wise cultural differences, all came out to the open and have continued to keep us apart. But the biggest threat to us right now, sadly, is religious differences. This was not so prevalent until the 70s when we were isolated from the world, perhaps owing to fear of the unknown and the 3 wars post-independance. But with a slow embrace of the world came a growing awareness amongst the populace, something that was exploited by the high-power strata of society in the form of religious extremism. The strategy of the British to narrow down populations was reused to create loyal vote-banks, but what the politicians could not foresee is that even a spark of fanaticism could now easily create a forest fire among such tight-knit groups held together by fear of the other. Operation Blue Star, militancy in Kashmir, Babri Masjid, Godhra all were results of these. And how these internal conflicts can prove dangerous for the nation was proved in all the most daring terrorist activities that happened within the country, be it the 93 blasts or the 11/26 shootouts. Obviously aided by our very citizens, and something totally unheard and unexpected of before. Again (easier said that done) unless reservations are rooted out from the heart, and practice (not teaching/celebration) of every religion given equal respect but made an individual/private activity, our uniquely multi-religious country will continue to have differences. For the cause of God is the best sales-pitch ever, has and will go beyond every reason and emotion! If history repeats itself, then we can go back in time to see what preceded before Qin Shi and Abraham Lincoln could achieve unity: Civil War!


In a way I'm happy the train of thoughts led me to the negative sides first, so that the second half turns out happier. For I now I have to write on two things I love about India. Wow, there are so many:

Food: Indian cuisine makes the best uses of the spices provided by nature and generates flavor and taste of such great variety, customized and perfected by different parts of the country, like nowhere else in the world.

Arts and Artistry: Be it music, dance, painting, carving, physical or even dresses and medicines, centuries of rigorous discipline, documenting, practice, and fine-tuning has made Indian practices impeccable and inimitable in the rest of the world. To name just a few: Yoga, Ayurveda, Music and Poetry (Carnatic, Hindustani, Devotional, folk), Dance (Bharatnatyam, Kathak, and myriad religious, regional and folk forms!) would arguably beat any other form in their category that the rest of the world has to offer. What we lost in Engineering supremacy was due to centuries under imperial and then foreign rule, where science and architecture was recognized as a tool to sustain supremacy and showcase dominance respectively. And what we continue to lose in music and dance, is plainly due to lack of marketing...

Weather: Do I need to say more. The best all-season natural weather that you can get in the world! Yes, we are losing this too, to pollution. It reflects the lack of systemic will to protect, and scientific advances to truly curb.

But I think the intent of the article is to bring out those things I love, which truly stand out in in the context of a shining Indian. And those two things would be

- Social Values: I would claim our culture and society to be, in its original form, truly very tolerant and flexible. The intermingling of religious celebrations as a society itself shows that! Even the caste system in its original form was based on meritocracy. But those in the higher-strata wanted to stay entrenched, and made your role in society be based on birth. But that is getting better, thanks to the merits of our Constitution's basic tenets. Indians through ages have imbibed respect and responsibility towards others, living and non-living, as part of our nature. Respect to elders, helping our neighbours, feeding the stranger, giving in charity, friendship with all, social celebrations, peace and love, have always been part of Indian culture. I have never seen such true social regard of your identity anywhere else. I mean, how am I your neighbour, if I'm not there when you need me, or even when you have something to share! Our true customs believed in the equality of all roles a human plays, irrespective of gender and task. While across the world, the woman tries to "be a man", in Indian she rejoices being revered as a symbol of Mother India. Don't get me wrong, lack of say in economy and social practices like dowry does endanger their very existence, but this is more due to manipulating social roles by greed and systemic defects in the law of the land. But I foresee that as technology reduces barriers to communicate, and awareness and education increases, more avenues will open up for the Indian women to showcase and express her skills.


- Spiritual Lessons: The jostling of religions for relevance in our country has had one benefit-the spread and knowledge of spirituality. Way back since when Hinduism was not a ritualistic religion, but just simply, a way of life, spirituality has been one of the prime goals of life. I've spoken about this in my previous blogs also. Spiritual lessons, modes of observance and practice were seen as non-conflicting to the other needs of human life, except ofcourse, behaving humanely itself! Even one look at Lord Krishna's life-whose rendition of Bhagavad Gita is interpreted and re-interpreted to meet orthodox ends-is enough to know that all is ok in human life, even killing is at times necessary, if only the intent is right. Go back to the context of when the Bhagavad Gita was recited, and you will know well. The most creative people in society are also the ones with the most gray shades. Why: Because else they are not human! Stop restricting and inhibiting yourself, be brave, express and act. But don't do it for a wrong intent. For the Law of Karma, as Krishna elaborated in detail in the Gita, is really the guiding principle of all creation. A lesson so profound, can only come from the deepest contemplations and realizations of the nature of creation, and we have the fortune to have been taught this in our culture! Go back again to the time of the Gita, there is no mention of idol worship. There is no mention of a religion named Hinduism. And there is no description of ritualistic practices. And yet, all were Hindus, by their way of life. So too in our country are all Hindus, not the religion, but the way of life. Spirituality was and always meant to be, indeed, an individual quest. And I feel proud our heritage taught me that!

Ethical Consumerism

The topic came up in the context that blog-buddy Swati's post-grad institute is asking students to research on building identity through Corporate Social Responsibility. And so it was chosen as our blog-group's topic of the month, and thought-provoking that it is, Good Choice I thought! :O)

Coming straight to the point...The reason a business runs is for profit. So the reason why it would pick on any non-core theme would be (in order of priority)profit enhancement (even if through cost reduction), competitive edge and government regulations.
Some sustainability and environmental benefits themes fall right into the safety net of all the three above. But "more ethical" does not. And I'd hence argue that just for that end, a business cannot be ethical in a market economy. So before going any further, one has to first accept that these themes of Corporate Social Responsibility became so only because it was justified either on the balance sheet or consumer demand, if the law of the land did not already mandate it.

Doing it is one thing, but there is no point advertising it, or making an identity/brand of it, if the end customer is not looking for it. So it is time now to first understand what the consumer's priorities are. At the end of the day, everyone lives on an income. Cost has to be managed. But where cost is almost equal among competing products or manageable (low in proportion to income) other factors do come to play including, and firstly, Quality. So for a consumer, be it an individual or an entity, cost will be the first priority followed by quality and then other factors. Now depending upon the kind of product/service on sale, these "other" factors can have considerable influence, and it is in this space that high-end competition tries to show differentiators. Note, I stress here that only consumers who fall within middle-class and upwards will be even influenced by factors other than cost and quality, in most scenarios not being able to afford looking beyond cost. I must also add here that I am not mixing quality with safety, and even when the middle-class consumer buys something for its low cost, he will check for the minimal safety-levels, even if defined by "others use it too". Going back to "other" factors beyond cost and quality, these factors that influence choice could vary from banal economics like it a one-time expense (durable goods) so lets keep cost aside, to the emotional like religious influence (kosher/halal for example) so cost is not what matters most, and so on including factors like ethical and green benefits. The point I'm conveying here is that in thought-process of the "responsible" consumer, Corporate Social Responsibility can at best lie at Level 3 (top among other factors), if not lower.

So the message to the Corporation seeking to build its brand, is that while the theme may include Corporate Social Responsibility, it should first have laid the brand-recall foundation in the consumer's mind on cost and quality. If the product is not regarded by the consumer as cost-competitive and of acceptable quality, trying to sell Corporate Social Responsibility is fruitless. And actually, marketers should take pains to send the message that embracing the Corporate Social Responsibility theme would not come at the cost of alienating cost and quality.

Having known its place, Corporate Social Responsibility indeed can act as a crucial differentiator, for it shows an organization's humanity and commitment to be well-regarded. In the IT space, companies like Infosys caught on early to this theme, and admirably, devotes 1% of its margins to the Infosys Foundation devoted to the social cause. Themes chosen include (not exhaustive) education, social upliftment, and environment, and it does make a difference in winning favor (even business), where all else is equal. As both shareholders, partners, and clients, even if not individually involved in it, like to be known as associated with companies chanting the Social Responsibility mantra (bask in their glory!). In the pharmaceutical industry too, where clients are most-times the end-consumer,  this can make a big positive difference. For example, the ingredients in the medicine being from non-meat or vegetarian alternatives. Or effluents are safely disposed. Manufacturing processes are efficient. As a consumer, it would make a difference to me, provided (and you can complete this sentence by now) cost and quality at least are not sacrificed!!

Five Quotes You Love and Live By

I'm making this post well after the due date. But this is a good day. We shifted into our new apartment today. And that, along with my workload, explains the reason for this delay.

My first thoughts on the topic: Interesting choice. But also that I won't have much to write except list the quotes I like and think about often.

So here goes:

- As you sow, so you reap: Source: The Bible. I think this is one of the first quotes that would have struck in anyone's mind when growing and learning, back in the school days. It is wonderful how much in sync it is with the core of Hinduism's teachings on how the Universe and Life works: The Law of Karma. There is no accident; all has been caused. And You are the cause! Yet, people say, destiny implies we have no choice. Not even close: Destiny implies you made it happen! And this quote puts that truth in, most concisely. Well, the related quote I actually live by is my own creation "In Life you can only have the Intent, Everything else Just Happens"

- An Eye for an Eye, leaves the Whole World Blind: Source: Mahatma Gandhiji. It so summarizes his philosophy in life. And the basis of his concept of Satyagraha. Forgive, let go! When in situations of frustration, when my first instinct is to give back in kind, this line gives me a first semblance of balance.

- Genius is 1% inspiration, and 99% perspiration: Source: Thomas Alva Edison. My hero in school-days when science and maths is all that made the world. It still gives belief in the most impossible of situations, where creativity or expertise is required, that I too can do it!

- Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid: Source: Albert Einstein. Ah, these scientists! Come up with more unforgettable lines, than any writer ever could! Perhaps because they pursue and reside closest to the truth. A line I heard fairly recently, this line should encourage everyone to find their calling, however small it might look in the big scheme of things. Because the big scheme is really not in your control, so just do what you love to do!

- I would burn in hell to keep you safe: Source: The Godfather III. Fills me with purpose, need I say more?

Purpose of Life

We all are born to this Earth, with a life, and a human life, that is "conscious-of-self" and can "think". What is this Life constituted of, is a deep question. But at the most basic level, it is the body, mind and soul. Where the boundary of one ends and the other begins, is the "deep" part...
But the bigger question is why is it what we have. And whether or not we were born before, why are we now born as humans who can think and realize. Again a difficult question to which religions and cultures have tried to provide answers. Their opinions cast a deep influence during our upbringing, but the more discerning ones among us, do rightly introspect. Perhaps there is no absolute answer, but as Swami Mukundanandaji pointed out in one of his talks: If you assert that there is no absolute truth as being true, then how can that assertion itself be true!
Suffice then to say that Life seems to be bent upon keeping the mystery of creation to itself. This is even seen in the very nature of the Universe, where a beginning of time and space seems to end in Infinite. What we believe is, but, just that: Our beliefs! And so it is important to equally regard those of others.

But the very fact that we are born with these set of capabilities which made us rule the Earth over other life forms, shows we are here for a purpose, and one that already is taking its course. The instinct to survive and procreate is in all living beings, so what led humans to go beyond and make all these developments in governance and science? There is no single visionary who guided us, for our life-time was kept short. And yet our very qualities ensured we settled our differences in race and human-codes (religion/culture/language) over centuries of generations, and built nation-states. Not at all hinting that we are done, for we can see the constant struggle of humans for their wants, at the level of the individual to those of economies and armies. Yet we have come a long way, and regardless of an individual contribution, we will continue to go forward (to what end, is part of the mystery).

This is not to suggest that each of us is not important. Of course we are. I for one consider each word I type, this output of my thought, will live on. And not just in databanks, but memories through life and souls that will be reborn.
But what I am leading to is that it is hence important to heed our calling. Not worry if we are doing our bit for our family or nature or society. But firstly if we are doing our bit for our Self. Simply put, what do I Love to do! And am I doing it? The rest just falls in place. The lessons are all there, in the very cyclical nature of seasons. Nothing will happen in a hurry, but will take its time. So too should you and I ensure balance, but stick to our calling. In that sense, I also agree with the Hindu way of Life of the 4 "ashrams" in life; and the purpose or role you serve in each stage of life. The greatest monarch to the worst authoritarian each served his purpose, and reached their zeniths for their stuck to their purpose. In the canvas of Infinite Life, they all served their purpose. In the deepest treatises on Ravana, most difficult to comprehend, is said that he abducted Sita and did not touch her. Yet fought the war with Rama. For his ultimate goal had always been to die at the hands of Vishnu...

So our purposes will unfold, if we identify our calling(s) and follow it with joy. When RD started loving music or Kishore singing, don't think they knew their purpose was to leave behind evergreen memories. But from the life histories of these stalwarts and those of so many, I think you serve your life's purpose in a span of 10years. Yes, for 10 consecutive years in his whole life, a man gives his best, and plays his part in the scheme of Infinite Life. The rest of his lifetime is either struggling to get there or thereafter living on laurels or getting jaded. So just be sure that the purpose you are here for is bound to get fulfilled, so rather just do what you love doing!

This also alludes that while a person might be a genius in what he loves to do, he may be most incorrect in all other actions. And since there is no way in human-law to punish the act and not the person yet, well choose to kill his freedom. Not that nature's law of Karma wouldn't have. Anyways, hero-worship should be an absolute No. They may be geniuses in what they do, and we do applaud; but so are we in what we do, whether they know it or not!

As for my purpose: My interests lie in problem solving (mathematics, puzzles, analysis), music, poetry, physical effort and arranging stuff. I work in IT with domain backgrounds in banking and manufacturing supply chain. And gelling my interests with my work, I feel my calling is to be good in Supply Chain Management. That one day I'll be so good that you put me in any industry, I will analyze and make efficient its Supply Chain. My output will be a work of art! The very thought pumps me up, so I know this is what I want to do! I work towards it, let's see how it turns out!

All the best with yours!!

Peace at Last

The wind blows past my face
As memories flowing by
The evening casts no shadow
As a body fading away
Even gracious mountains, won’t be always
How will my words survive
Fluttering leaves, the busy dust
As mind racing for tasks not done
Rest thy, in peace, the blinding eyes
Let the soul take over, to glory divine

(The Last) 10 Day You Challenge/Quest: 1 Picture

Finally (and sadly, really) we come to the end of the 10-Day You Challenge/Quest. It has been a wonderful journey, inwards asking myself those questions posed by the challenge, and outwards upon reading the posts of my friends. Made a new friend, Sonali. Really nice knowing you Sonali. Had been in touch with Deepa but didn't know so much. Not surprising for she's a multi-faceted personality. But the biggest revelation was Swapna, someone "serious" me had observed at a distance in college as someone more mature and balanced than everyone in class, wanted to but didn't really know well. It's yet again a proof of how life has a way to close the loop. It was truly great reading so much about you Swapna, and recently when I saw a picture of you with your daughter in Facebook, having read your blogs, felt really happy. I think that's what the blog gave us, getting us closer to our selves and those who were on this journey with us. And for that, we all have to thank Deepa!

I know I've been the worst in publishing posts on time. But honestly it's because I love to write (if it wasn't obvious from these long, very long posts), and like to think about and digest what to write about. And I insist that when I sit to write (like now), the words just flow out, be spontaneous. Obviously I re-read and correct/edit things before publishing. But all this is still no excuse for being a late-lateef. Sorry.

And frankly speaking, midway through I lost that image we had to remind us of what's for next week. So I'd read one of your conversations and figure out what's for next week. And that is partly to blame why I thought today's post is about "One Picture" and not "One Picture of yourself". Kind of makes sense actually, considering this to be a challenge open to an arbit group of people who take this blogging journey together, to finally see the person they know so much about...
So when I was thinking of "One Picture" I was closing in on The Scream, a painting that keeps coming to mind when idle and wanting to think of something. What exactly inspired Edvard Munch, or what life did his creation take? Is it the scream of horror upon the bloodied sky in the background; the "scream" we all feel within upon seeing strangers approaching (on the way in life), for we all by nature are by ourselves, and actually need others only because of the environment; or is it the shudder of being born (notice the central character is  in a fetal image), also viewed by some as a ghostly image again conveying fear. But all this is irrelevant...
"One Picture of Yourself" is a whole different ball game for a guy. Mainly 'cos I (and I think most guys) don't care about our pics, or how they come out, or where they are.So I'll point you guys to my profile pics on Blogger, Facebook and Google Plus..the three put together characterize me, if that is achievable:
Blogger Pic: I like being formal, a certain decency, and close friends know I don't loosen up unless in their company or when engrossed in something, even acting/singing. Yet don't want to look formal, and hence the pic with a suit, but a t-shirt within.
Google+ Pic: Left to myself I'll just grow a beard, and spend a life studying music and math in company of nature. To me even the mention is tempting, of leading a spartan, reclusive life. Guess that's why I like my Google+ photo
Facebook Pic: I lean a little on religion, proud of the original Hinduism and being born into it, and hold my family dear, which for me foremost is  now obviously my wife.And hence the Facebook pic, taken in front of the Aurora Balaji temple in Chicago, with me and Jyothi having Chandan-kuri on our foreheads, pleases me.

At this point, I feel it only natural to share with my friends that we are expecting. Jyothi just crossed 12 weeks. Our baby is on the way :-)
Please pray for all three of us.

And thank you for reading...and I really enjoyed reading all your posts too, so thanks for that too!
Hope we can continue this pen-pals thing going in some form. Enjoy maadi :-)

10 Day YOU Challenge//Quest: 2 Songs

Since the last two of my posts were close(r) to heart, words just poured out, so I wanted to keep this one short (also seems to be the intent with the title, just 2 songs!). But then, music is close(st) to my heart, and hence I feel like writing again :-)

To me, Indian music and all the variety and depth that music can produce!

Grown up hearing playbacks from arguably the two best eras of melody in music:
- The 70’s in Hindi films
- The 80’s and 90’s in Malayalam films

As time passed, began enjoying Carnatic and Devotional too, and now listen to some English and Country too.  But compared to any form of music, I can sit back and get lost in melody anytime.

My favorite singers, lyricists and music directors thus inevitably became the best singers of this time:
- Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle in Hindi
- K.J. Yesudas, Chitra in Malayalam

My favorite lyricists:
- Anand Bakshi, Gulzar and Javed Akhtar in Hindi
- O.N.V. Kurup, Kaithapram, Girish Puthenchery in Malayalam

But the musicians made all the difference for sure, and one name rules all above, almost God-like for me: R.D. Burman!
In Malayalam, the best music directors have been: Raveendran, Ravi (who has done mostly Hindi films in his career like Chaudvin ka Chand, Ek Phool Do Maali, and Nikaah, but did his best work in Malayalam in the 80s and 90s)

And as you can see from the listing, these are people of eras bygone. And most of the music I listen, is still from that genre. So I’m depending here on my friends who are out on this 10-Day Quest venture too, to enlighten me on what’s hot these days!

Needless to say, the top 2 songs I’ll choose will be from the genre and time I love. I’ll pick one Hindi and one Malayalam:

- Pramadavanam (link to hear):

Singer: Yesudas

Music Director: Raveendran

Lyrics: Kaithapram

Film: His Highness Abdullah (Malayalam)

 Perhaps the best, and uncannily difficult to render, Malayalam song. Yesudas says he cannot sing it again himself, with that right touch the music director graced on the tunes during recording.
The song itself, like most Malayalam lyrics, is philosophical. It talks of the arrival of spring, and how seasons as being witnessed by us, has also been, by generations gone by. As if we are repeating history by witnessing it. He uses the Ramayana and Krishna Leela as analogies. Although non-Malayalees will not get the lyrics (which the Malayalees themselves find hard to interpret owing to the philosophical overtones), the music will grow in you. A must listen!

- Tere Bina (link to hear):
    Singers: Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar
    Music Director: R.D. Burman
    Lyrics: Gulzar
    Film: Aandhi (Hindi)
A very difficult choice  since I listen to Hindi film songs the most. I think I’ve heard all the ones upto the end of the 70’s.  And I’m sure everyone has heard this song at least once in their lifetime, and most of those from this generation perhaps liked the music, and didn’t think much about the lyrics. But that’s precisely what the song stands out for, in my opinion. It is to teach a generation fast turning into social network junkies, of the value that lies in deep interpersonal relationships. Panchamda picked the music out of a devotional song he composed in Bengali, so the music was a sure bet, appreciated even before it was applied here. And the singing, especially in Kishore’s voice, has the right maturity required for this song. And this is one of those instances where the music only could have spoken more volumes than any film dialogues. It absolutely fitted the context in the film. Helps to have a lyricist who’s also the director I’d say!

Shortlist:
- English
    ->Kiss Me: The best song I’ll ever love in English. Listen to it, and you can’t help but feel nostalgic, about teenage romance almost like sweetest memories from a past life.

- Devotional
    -> The Gayathri mantra is a favorite and recited ritually. Its effects on the mind have even been studied by scientists. Its meaning can be at different levels, praying to the Sun, the giver of life, to enlighten nature, your body (energy), and prana (soul).

-> Shiva Tandava Stotram: I’m not sure if you’ll have heard of this stotram composed by Ravana in praise of Shiva (link to meaning). The link I’ve shared is Ashit Desai’s version in youtube, which I like the most. It matches intensity with devotion.

-> Hanuman Chalisa: Love Hari Om Sharan’s version of it, although South-Indians are more familiar with MS Subbulakshmi’s

- Hindi
    -> Songs from Amar Prem: Led by Kuch Tho Log Kahenge, the depth in Anand Bakshi’s  lyrics is amazing!
    -> Songs from Khamoshi (1969): Led by Humne Dekhi Hai, where Gulzar, is his own style, weaves words into a deep message.
       
    -> Most hits by Panchamda. Nobody could consistently provide that much melody, in his time or thereafter!

- Ghazals
    Two not-so-well known ones stand out for me:
    -> Khaleel Dhantejvi’s Ab main Raashan Ki Qathaaron mein nazar aata hoon, apne Kheton se bichadne ki Sazaa paatha hoon
    -> Nida Fazli’s Apni Marzi se Kahaan Apne Safar ke Hum hain, Rukh Hawaon ka Jidhar ka hai, Udhar ke Hum hain


- Malayalam

Songs from most hits in the 80’s and 90’s, for good music was plenty in Malayalam films then. If I have to pick a few for non-Malayalees to enjoy (click the name to listen, I’ve linked it to youtube:

-> Anju Sharangalum

-> Manyal Prasadavum

->Neeraduvan

-> Etho Nidrathan

-> Vaishakha Sandhye

-> Palavattam Pookaalam

-> Pazham Tamil Paatizhayum

Let me know if it spikes your interest and you want to listen to more! :-)

10 Day YOU Challenge/Quest: 3 Films

After a period of lull, back to writing for the 10 Day YOU Quest. And it’s one of my favorite topics too: the movies!  But picking just 3 is so difficult, in my military mind I can take the following approaches to short-list:

- When I typically rate movies on Netflix, a 5 star goes to one which crossed the realm of really liked; I must love it, for reasons beyond reason.

- Based on my feeling of the purpose served by the movies. To entertain mostly, but even then, how does it achieve that. There has to one selling point, something different in the message/content, else it wouldn’t stand out. For example, Hum Aapke Hain Kaun’s selling point was the filial bonding, on top of good music/dance/romance. Sholay’s was how two people empower a village and a real-good good-over-evil duel. DDLJ’s was about romance, but not with disregard to family.  In the multiplex age, directors are able to make profit with just their unique selling points without the expensive music/dance/romance routines. Yes, I’m restricting my thoughts to Hindi films, becauese most regional films, for long, have run purely on a strong content/message. So I could list three based on how hard-hitting was the point made by the director (because the film is his vision materializing. The director he is the architect, the actual hero, and everyone else including the performers, are  just his support-staff)

And I also think every movie has to end on a positive note. It may even be, a faint ray of hope or a dream sequence. But for me, it’s part of the director’s responsibility to ensure that the people leaving the theater, when conveyed to a message no matter how grim, are left with something to look forward to.

So hmm, I’ll come up with three movies which fit both criteria (“I Loved It!” and “Great Message”) plus my ground rule (happy ending :-D). And let me keep another criteria: 1 Hindi, 1 Malayalam, 1 English

So here goes:

In films, I like characters to reflect real-life humans. Even protagonists to have gray shades. If you look at it, Lord Rama and Gandhiji had as much gray shades as any other human, and hence their life-stories have more to learn from on what to, and not-to do. The film I’ll list as my top choice is one that perfectly suits that idea, about a young adult who knowingly makes mistakes, but also has his heart in the right place-
Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa (Hindi) directed by Kundan Shah: I’ve loved this one since ages, and Shahrukh Khan once said it is his favorite film too. Only someone as bubbly and talented could have played the role with such elan.  You really begin empathising with Sunil,  the free-spirited protagonist played by Shahrukh who dreams of making a career in music. Obviously this rankles his father, who, like most parents in the Indian middle-class, wants him to pass high-school and get a real job. The movie is also built around Sunil’s unrequited love for Anna. The character is so well-etched that you start rooting  for his simple wants. I have grown up in a typical south-Indian family, and gone to a Christian missionary school (where all is black/white or good/evil), and had until then thought those without good report cards are not good people.  The movie teaches that the true measure of character lies in integrity and selflessness. And more important than being honest to the world, is being true to yourself.


The next film is in-short, a celebration of life, created by the genius MT. He forte is writing and is usually involved in literary works and film screenplays, but he’s been equally adept whenever he directed one. All married couples, happily in love, would empathize and relish this film:
Oru Cheru Punchiri (Malayalam) directed by M.T. Vasudevan Nair: The title translates “A small Smile”, and is about a elderly couple, leading their retired lives in peace. The movie takes us through their seemingly mundane village life, yet teaching how there is beauty and joy in the most ordinary living, if there is that spark of love. In the company of each other, and the richness of the life left behind, they are self-assured and above prejudices. The funniest sequence I still chuckle at is when the couple are out to attend a marriage, and the wife teases the husband upon seeing his old crush also attending the wedding. While taking us deep into the chemistry of their soul, the movie also takes us wider into their social circle, reflecting the state of society as a whole. The playful sequences with the neighbouring children, the inevitable friction with their materialistic children who reside in cities, their support of the grand-daughter’s relationship to a Muslim, the detest to temple festival organizers who are there more for the political mileage than devotion, the director makes vast colorful strokes on this canvas. The movie prods us to ponder, what matters eventually? And in a perfect ending, the film depicts how the celebration of life, this love we feel within, goes farther and deeper than the objects of our affection.

I generally taske the view there are no absolute truths. Every action is correct based on the circumstance. And when directors explore this by showing two perspectives of the same event, two ways of interpreting the same subject, it interests me. The are numerous movies that do this, but this one I like the best-
Taking Sides (English) directed by Istvan Szabo: Based on a true story, this is about the post-World War 2 interrogation of a world-famous conductor Wilhelm Furtwangler by an American Army Major. These interrogations were carried out to determine the level of involvement in war-crimes by Nazi-sympathizers, by probing them with available evidence. Before the interrogation, the major has been hardened by screenings of inhumanities carried out during the war. To such an extent that even the war-weary major gets nightmares and throws up at nights. The major has thus been fortified to be at his harshest best. And he confronts the conductor to the point: why inspite being the best in the world, did the conductor (like Einstein and so many others) defect to the Allied countries. And yet is faced with a steely resolve of a response “Germany is my motherland, why should I have left it”. The debate (and the movie) plays out at various levels and tones: intellectual, objective, sentimental, to downright argumentative, bullying, and maddening. Such is the impact of the war of words that every person in the room viz. the Lieutenant who bears witness, the clerk who has to type/document the interrogation, and the interrogator and subject themselves, at some point or the other, break down. The audience walks in with the major into the interrogation room carrying a mindset of hatred, and walks out at the end with their hearts gone out to the conductor, and their minds looking for introspection in fresh air...

Some other films came very close to being with the top 3, and I must list these also-rans, for these too, are indeed must-watch (not in order):

Hindi:
Ek Ruka Hua Faisla
Koshish
Agneepath

Malayalam:
Sadayam
Pakshe

Tamil:
Virumaandi

English:
Forrest Gump
The Godfather-3
The Good Shepherd
Body of Lies
Inception
The Dark Knight
The Prestige

Foreign:
Lives of Others (German)
The Grocer’s Son (French)
Red Cliff (Mandarin)
The Emperor and the Assasin (Mandarin)
Farewell my Concubine (Mandarin)

And any film which is a creation of Gulzar, Christopher Nolan or  M.T. Vasudevan Nair, I would recommend to all!

Focus on the Right Things

I know not what it is to be, in a jungle or a palace
In a state of illness eternal, or of perpetual  health
So neither can this mind be, happy or sad forever
Distracting in this vacillation, the prana’s divine light

Unless I choose to be, unattached to happenings outside
Immerse my attention to, one task at a time
Live and contribute to, the love of music and science
Keep paying my respects to well-wishers, in life and in mind

Verses for the Day

He walked alone, and alone did he Bide
Nobody did understand him, and neither did he Himself
For a lifetime may be long, but short in terms of Life
And deeds may hold relevance, long after the creator Forgotten