I have loved nature, as any else
Looked up with awe, admired solemn
Thought in to depths, cried often
Eaten fruit, drank from rivers,
Bathed in rain, gorge and fall
Risen with the sun, and rolled on mud
But all this craze, the mist and haze
Yet deny me the vision, of why this Life
Friday, July 30, 2010
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Take the Plunge!
In life, you look back, and see what you did
And you will only feel pride, in steps of risk
In life, you think back, and cherish memories lived
And you will only remember, the moments on edge
Each life may be meant, for a purpose but
A step on sand, takes a whole-hearted effort
And you will only feel pride, in steps of risk
In life, you think back, and cherish memories lived
And you will only remember, the moments on edge
Each life may be meant, for a purpose but
A step on sand, takes a whole-hearted effort
Feroz Khan
Feroz Khan, the epitome of style and good taste. I will always remember him as a symbol of good taste and a good life. At least his public and on-screen persona. He always seem to potray how one can start from scratch and have it all. He started as a struggling actor, but maintained his own mannerisms, style, dash and on-screen persona. Irresistably handsome and self-assured, confidence always seemed to be oozing out of him.
Apart from his acting, Feroz Khan ventured to direction showing he's not just someone to rest on his laurels. And direct he did tastefully. He also boldly got into production to make the kind of films he loved to. Some of these were inspired from other classics, but still created with flair. I admire how all the lead characters were given a lot of scope to perform, in most of his films. He also propped up actors who had the sparkle but were yet to be noticed. Every film by Feroz Khan had tasteful music or musical themes.
An example of how good a role model he was is seen when his son Fardeen was caught with drugs. In the press conference the next morning, there was not one defensive word from Feroz. He knew where the line needs to be drawn so his son doesn't end up wayward.
Feroz Khan struggled and rose like a phoenix. Made his fortunes and achieved all he wanted in style.
He may have truly looked back and said I lived life king-size!
You'll be missed.
Apart from his acting, Feroz Khan ventured to direction showing he's not just someone to rest on his laurels. And direct he did tastefully. He also boldly got into production to make the kind of films he loved to. Some of these were inspired from other classics, but still created with flair. I admire how all the lead characters were given a lot of scope to perform, in most of his films. He also propped up actors who had the sparkle but were yet to be noticed. Every film by Feroz Khan had tasteful music or musical themes.
An example of how good a role model he was is seen when his son Fardeen was caught with drugs. In the press conference the next morning, there was not one defensive word from Feroz. He knew where the line needs to be drawn so his son doesn't end up wayward.
Feroz Khan struggled and rose like a phoenix. Made his fortunes and achieved all he wanted in style.
He may have truly looked back and said I lived life king-size!
You'll be missed.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Idol Worship and Spiritual Progress through Worship of Nature
While there may be speculation whether the Ramayana was a true story or work of fiction, there is enough historical evidences to prove that the Mahabharata era and war actually happened. I was struck then, to read in a book "Yuganta" by Iravati Karve-which happens to be one of my favorites- that the people during the time of the Mahabharata never practised Idol worship. Hinduism at the time had been more about self-inquiry towards realizing one's purpose in life and life's purpose to one and all.
Strikingly, I read elsewhere that Shri Krishna actually advocated idol worship realizing that humans are able to identify more with objects of sense-things they can perceive-than abstract concepts, although the latter is the truer means to spirituality. No wonder idol worship is heard of more after the era of the Mahabharata. And perhaps Shri Krishna, the all-round genius, for he is historically known for his might, intelligence, philosophy and especially a deep understanding of the laws of nature. Idol worship apparently got entrenched only from 3rd to 7th Century AD.
What has however been increasingly forgotten, that Idol Worship is perhaps the first stage to spirituality. Over time the means became the end, as it was easily reachable. Today, its easier to meet God at the temple rather than within Self. Most would find it incredulous that we are none other than the Gods we pray too. For, focused on Idol Worship, spiritual education has gone awry. We know we are not perfect, and "want" God to be. But even in the lives of mythological Gods, or in the lives of Shri Krishna or the greatest of Gurus, we see this lack of perfection. Perhaps our forefathers realized, that "God" is one who has his/her weaknesses, but also mastery, control or moderation over them.
Adi Sankara would likewise recommend 'Inquiry' as the path to progress. Why am I here? What is the purpose of life? Meditating on these questions is more pertinent that asking favors from paintings and sculptures.
It is the Laws of Nature are that are actually perfect. They are guided by the Law of Karma. We have built our lives, habits, civilisations and culture around these laws. At the risk of sounding paganistic, if anything, Nature and its wonders deserve veneration (and at least thus, preservation and protection). But can the laws of Nature be completely understood? You have a better chance with perception. Which is why a Leader is one whose decisions are based more upon this perception, this rhythm with Nature; not all are born with (or perhaps adapt) this quality.
The other difficulty in accepting Nature as one's master is because its incompassible as well as ruthless. How would you define the scope of Nature? Humans are left humbled when they keep searching for the end of the Universe and are unable to even fathom it. Neither the beginning or end of time. How small we are is understood by the fact that 90% of Earth's history was the Precambrian era. And we humans have lived lesser (1.8 millions years now) than even the dinosours (69 million years).
Yes, we are the most intelligent and self-aware species that Nature created. And I believe Nature created us for a purpose, which might even be the destruction of Earth. For through its history, the Earth has had 6 mass extinctions. And we humans happen to be the first species in the history of Earth causing another mass extinction.
Connecting this back to our topic, idol worship played a role in making humans further dependant upon sense pleasures. All the advances of science were focused upon making the senses more comfortable, instead of the earlier ideals of understanding nature and preserving life.
An Idol, instead of acting as a role model or reminder of our progress towards spirituality, instead became something for us to project our wants on. Apart from becoming our ideals, they became life-like. And projecting upon them thus, we gave them their powers too. Do we realize that we, born of Nature, as Buddhism or contemporarily "Star Wars" would put it, have the "force" strong within us. By considering Idols all-powerful, we made them all-powerful and began considering ourselves servile. I truly today believe the Idols listen to us, for we gave them those powers, instead of seeking to empower ourselves!
Strikingly, I read elsewhere that Shri Krishna actually advocated idol worship realizing that humans are able to identify more with objects of sense-things they can perceive-than abstract concepts, although the latter is the truer means to spirituality. No wonder idol worship is heard of more after the era of the Mahabharata. And perhaps Shri Krishna, the all-round genius, for he is historically known for his might, intelligence, philosophy and especially a deep understanding of the laws of nature. Idol worship apparently got entrenched only from 3rd to 7th Century AD.
What has however been increasingly forgotten, that Idol Worship is perhaps the first stage to spirituality. Over time the means became the end, as it was easily reachable. Today, its easier to meet God at the temple rather than within Self. Most would find it incredulous that we are none other than the Gods we pray too. For, focused on Idol Worship, spiritual education has gone awry. We know we are not perfect, and "want" God to be. But even in the lives of mythological Gods, or in the lives of Shri Krishna or the greatest of Gurus, we see this lack of perfection. Perhaps our forefathers realized, that "God" is one who has his/her weaknesses, but also mastery, control or moderation over them.
Adi Sankara would likewise recommend 'Inquiry' as the path to progress. Why am I here? What is the purpose of life? Meditating on these questions is more pertinent that asking favors from paintings and sculptures.
It is the Laws of Nature are that are actually perfect. They are guided by the Law of Karma. We have built our lives, habits, civilisations and culture around these laws. At the risk of sounding paganistic, if anything, Nature and its wonders deserve veneration (and at least thus, preservation and protection). But can the laws of Nature be completely understood? You have a better chance with perception. Which is why a Leader is one whose decisions are based more upon this perception, this rhythm with Nature; not all are born with (or perhaps adapt) this quality.
The other difficulty in accepting Nature as one's master is because its incompassible as well as ruthless. How would you define the scope of Nature? Humans are left humbled when they keep searching for the end of the Universe and are unable to even fathom it. Neither the beginning or end of time. How small we are is understood by the fact that 90% of Earth's history was the Precambrian era. And we humans have lived lesser (1.8 millions years now) than even the dinosours (69 million years).
Yes, we are the most intelligent and self-aware species that Nature created. And I believe Nature created us for a purpose, which might even be the destruction of Earth. For through its history, the Earth has had 6 mass extinctions. And we humans happen to be the first species in the history of Earth causing another mass extinction.
Connecting this back to our topic, idol worship played a role in making humans further dependant upon sense pleasures. All the advances of science were focused upon making the senses more comfortable, instead of the earlier ideals of understanding nature and preserving life.
An Idol, instead of acting as a role model or reminder of our progress towards spirituality, instead became something for us to project our wants on. Apart from becoming our ideals, they became life-like. And projecting upon them thus, we gave them their powers too. Do we realize that we, born of Nature, as Buddhism or contemporarily "Star Wars" would put it, have the "force" strong within us. By considering Idols all-powerful, we made them all-powerful and began considering ourselves servile. I truly today believe the Idols listen to us, for we gave them those powers, instead of seeking to empower ourselves!
Saturday, July 10, 2010
A Drive at Night
Driving against the wind, on a pretty moonlit night
Hopes of soaring, made by the mind feeling light
Is it alcohol, or has the speed-limit shot by
Or my Mustang afire, company on this bright lonely ride
Curves and bumps, cannot sag the spirits now
The blue rivers and mountains, color my life anew
The passing lights keep me, from feeling this as heaven
But does it matter where to go, when we all live and then die
Hopes of soaring, made by the mind feeling light
Is it alcohol, or has the speed-limit shot by
Or my Mustang afire, company on this bright lonely ride
Curves and bumps, cannot sag the spirits now
The blue rivers and mountains, color my life anew
The passing lights keep me, from feeling this as heaven
But does it matter where to go, when we all live and then die
Wednesday, July 07, 2010
Will the US Continue to Retain Numero Uno
There is a lot of debate on whether the US will retain its number one position in the world. Will it continue to remain the richest (which by current statistics of its mounting debt is also in doubt), greatest (depends on what standards are we talking of) country of the world.
True, China has become the manufacturing hub of the world. India has become the IT hub of the world. But none of those countries have the intellectual capital that the US has. The Harvard, MIT, Stanford are all here. The most innovative companies leading in the technology and business forefront are based out of here.
Cutting edge scientific research and technology happen and exist here.
And so, while these companies will continue to outsource for manufacturing (China) or IT services (India), the driver is primarily cost.
The currencies across the world are pegged at the dollar giving it a high value that would not go down in some time. Hence the the highest margins for sale of products continue to be from the US. This means the best quality of product and life would continue to be available here.
Few countries in the world have the infrastructure, or made the investments to research, as the US has. China especially has mainly lived off by pirating/replicating/copying products made out of years of innovation in the US.
Few countries provide the basic facilities for continuity of human life: One dollar can get you half a gallon milk or a meal to help you survive. No person can go hungry here. Restrooms and potable water are ubiquituous. Most importantly, racism is almost non-existent. By its very nature, the country was built by immigrants and there has been respect for hard-work.
Offshoring is good for balanced development of the world. But it must be a level-playing field. With China forcibly devaluing its currency, manufacturing, not just in the US, but across the developing world, is being dealt a body blow. The premise is my belief that economy is basically driven by solid outputs created from nothing. These primarily constitute agricultural and manufacturing output. A service product only exists to support the former.
So in an ideal world, where currency is driven by market forces, the Yen should have increased a long time back. This would have raised the living standards of people in China in the long run, and also given an edge to other developing countries as suitable sources of manufacturing. One day the economic viability would catch up and give the US its due too. But this is not to be so, and China is taking up an unfair advantage.
So the US continues to lose what any country's economy is based up on: manufacturing jobs. Obama should stopped commenting about service-oriented jobs being taken up by India, as those are white-collared jobs. The base of the economy (and employment) is the blue collared jobs going out to China, and that is what needs to be addressed. Note that white-collared citizens will be more accepting of a global world and willing to travel where the best opportunity exists; the blue collared cannot afford this.
If the US has to maintains its ranking, that is what needs to be focused upon.
True, China has become the manufacturing hub of the world. India has become the IT hub of the world. But none of those countries have the intellectual capital that the US has. The Harvard, MIT, Stanford are all here. The most innovative companies leading in the technology and business forefront are based out of here.
Cutting edge scientific research and technology happen and exist here.
And so, while these companies will continue to outsource for manufacturing (China) or IT services (India), the driver is primarily cost.
The currencies across the world are pegged at the dollar giving it a high value that would not go down in some time. Hence the the highest margins for sale of products continue to be from the US. This means the best quality of product and life would continue to be available here.
Few countries in the world have the infrastructure, or made the investments to research, as the US has. China especially has mainly lived off by pirating/replicating/copying products made out of years of innovation in the US.
Few countries provide the basic facilities for continuity of human life: One dollar can get you half a gallon milk or a meal to help you survive. No person can go hungry here. Restrooms and potable water are ubiquituous. Most importantly, racism is almost non-existent. By its very nature, the country was built by immigrants and there has been respect for hard-work.
Offshoring is good for balanced development of the world. But it must be a level-playing field. With China forcibly devaluing its currency, manufacturing, not just in the US, but across the developing world, is being dealt a body blow. The premise is my belief that economy is basically driven by solid outputs created from nothing. These primarily constitute agricultural and manufacturing output. A service product only exists to support the former.
So in an ideal world, where currency is driven by market forces, the Yen should have increased a long time back. This would have raised the living standards of people in China in the long run, and also given an edge to other developing countries as suitable sources of manufacturing. One day the economic viability would catch up and give the US its due too. But this is not to be so, and China is taking up an unfair advantage.
So the US continues to lose what any country's economy is based up on: manufacturing jobs. Obama should stopped commenting about service-oriented jobs being taken up by India, as those are white-collared jobs. The base of the economy (and employment) is the blue collared jobs going out to China, and that is what needs to be addressed. Note that white-collared citizens will be more accepting of a global world and willing to travel where the best opportunity exists; the blue collared cannot afford this.
If the US has to maintains its ranking, that is what needs to be focused upon.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Verses for the Day
Victories n Virtues, r like Weekends n Brunch; Absence of one, does not make filling, the other
Hypocrisy and Reason stay hand-in-hand; for as enemies they could, put the other to harm
There is one word to place it, I admit "chaos" it is; but what better do you have within, to replace it
Hypocrisy and Reason stay hand-in-hand; for as enemies they could, put the other to harm
There is one word to place it, I admit "chaos" it is; but what better do you have within, to replace it
Friday, June 25, 2010
Mahesh Bhatt film themes of Seach for Purpose in Jism and Rog
Mahesh Bhatt speaks his mind, is bold to take his stand and not follow blindly like sheep. And his movies show his observation of people's behavior to situations. Undercurrents of fear and nervousness they go through. And one of my favorites are the themes of loneliness he delves into in two of his films.
You will note that in both Jism and Rog, the main protagonist feels a pang within him. And he's not sure. This is a phase every youngster goes through. I'd say, someone in his early 20's before he's in love and married, and then, surprisingly, after his family's settled.
To put it simply, it is nothing but the heart's search for purpose. The human soul and spirit arise within, asking us to search for the purpose of your life. More often, people term it as a search for your love. I'm not sure if it's that's or at least just that. Because in some this phase makes them take a bold move in career, a move at an age when you have nothing to lose (which not many realize and lose their best chance in life). But in the majority, this yearn is silenced by the discovery of love. One then aims at committment, possessiveness, and then feels good when there's a sign of being settled. And then, strangely, the hollowness, the same feeling when one is lonely perhaps, arises again.
One can get very self-destructive, and behaves at least sometimes irrationally in these phases. The former is very beautifully captured when John Abraham drinks alcohol as his nectar. The song 'Aawarapan' aptly captures his mood. I'm sure if you were in this phase when this movie released, it's etched in your memory, and lo, even in your feelings. When he falls in love, he thinks it was the purpose he was looking for. And now his only aim is to possess it. As the movie painfully potrays, he regrettably knowingly makes mistakes in this drive of his.
The other movie Rog, showed a person (although not in his early 20's) in a similar search for purpose. Again, coincidentally sung again by KK, the song 'Maine Dil Se Kaha' captures the feeling of want very beautifully. The character is shown to be a mature and responsible police office, a good choice in character. Mahesh Bhatt then reflects on how such a character will come to terms with himself as the movie progresses. As one sees, he at least gets irrational by losing himself in the beauty of his (apparently) dead subject. When she's found to be alive, he goes to great lengths to keep control over self ('Khoobsurat Hai Woh Itna' captures what is going through his heart) and eventually to get to the culprit only within the parameters of law.
But I was really amazed at these choice of characters and especially, their creator's (Mahesh Bhatt) understanding of the feeling.
I don't know whether women go through this phase too, or even how many men realize themselves when they are in this phase.
But although like living on the edge, this is one stage in life when you face your own, raw, vulnerable self. I'd say the only other force that potent would be when you lose something you hold dearly. So reflect in it, savor it when it lasts, I'm not sure if you'll find your answer, but hopefully (at least for most when it comes after family life is settled) it'll set you in the right direction for your life!
Thank you, Bhatt sir.
You will note that in both Jism and Rog, the main protagonist feels a pang within him. And he's not sure. This is a phase every youngster goes through. I'd say, someone in his early 20's before he's in love and married, and then, surprisingly, after his family's settled.
To put it simply, it is nothing but the heart's search for purpose. The human soul and spirit arise within, asking us to search for the purpose of your life. More often, people term it as a search for your love. I'm not sure if it's that's or at least just that. Because in some this phase makes them take a bold move in career, a move at an age when you have nothing to lose (which not many realize and lose their best chance in life). But in the majority, this yearn is silenced by the discovery of love. One then aims at committment, possessiveness, and then feels good when there's a sign of being settled. And then, strangely, the hollowness, the same feeling when one is lonely perhaps, arises again.
One can get very self-destructive, and behaves at least sometimes irrationally in these phases. The former is very beautifully captured when John Abraham drinks alcohol as his nectar. The song 'Aawarapan' aptly captures his mood. I'm sure if you were in this phase when this movie released, it's etched in your memory, and lo, even in your feelings. When he falls in love, he thinks it was the purpose he was looking for. And now his only aim is to possess it. As the movie painfully potrays, he regrettably knowingly makes mistakes in this drive of his.
The other movie Rog, showed a person (although not in his early 20's) in a similar search for purpose. Again, coincidentally sung again by KK, the song 'Maine Dil Se Kaha' captures the feeling of want very beautifully. The character is shown to be a mature and responsible police office, a good choice in character. Mahesh Bhatt then reflects on how such a character will come to terms with himself as the movie progresses. As one sees, he at least gets irrational by losing himself in the beauty of his (apparently) dead subject. When she's found to be alive, he goes to great lengths to keep control over self ('Khoobsurat Hai Woh Itna' captures what is going through his heart) and eventually to get to the culprit only within the parameters of law.
But I was really amazed at these choice of characters and especially, their creator's (Mahesh Bhatt) understanding of the feeling.
I don't know whether women go through this phase too, or even how many men realize themselves when they are in this phase.
But although like living on the edge, this is one stage in life when you face your own, raw, vulnerable self. I'd say the only other force that potent would be when you lose something you hold dearly. So reflect in it, savor it when it lasts, I'm not sure if you'll find your answer, but hopefully (at least for most when it comes after family life is settled) it'll set you in the right direction for your life!
Thank you, Bhatt sir.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Travesty of Life, Nature and Hope
Of what works and does not, in Nature's flight
When tornadoes uproot, followed by a rainbow's smile
Did it happen when, humans lost their instinct
In favor of greed, safety and reason
Man sees hope, but does hope leap o'er death
And does life live on, in soul's open desire
When tornadoes uproot, followed by a rainbow's smile
Did it happen when, humans lost their instinct
In favor of greed, safety and reason
Man sees hope, but does hope leap o'er death
And does life live on, in soul's open desire
Thursday, June 17, 2010
(RTOAC) Memories gone by: Discovering Self in Bangalore and Mysore
Was in a restless mood tonight also. I'd been expecting a phone call. It's been a week, and I'm wondering how Karmic forces have moved away from favoring me.
The pangs of pain, perhaps, took me back in time. I consider my time in Bangalore as favorite. Staying alone over weekends and discovering self.
Doing all there is to, by myself. Eating simple food at Aunty's Mess. Cleaning home and washing clothes. Exercising, music, composing poetry, running. Visits to the temple, after a one-time meal fast on Sundays. I miss all those. Sleeping with windows open, no matter how cold or dreary the climate and lone outside. Bathing in fresh water notwithstanding how cold.
i had once a cat come over to my bed. And once a snake in my bathroom. My roommate Sainath was one of the many I've seen in Life, who are better skilled than me. Intellectual discussions with him, I'll never get again perhaps. For when you talk on the phone, you only have time to catch up. Discussing in depth, are what only roommates can do. I look back and realize how stubborn and rigid I was at times. I'd take silent pleasure in being called a miser perhaps. I'd spend, but on books and music. I'd walk wherever I can, or only take a bus. I wanted a third roommate, to save costs (I distanced myself from my own idea later, realizing how-not just Sai- I too valued my privacy). We'd cut corners on who'd pay more for water (I was and still am a guzzler) and electricity (because he'd use a coil to heat water). Feels real immaturish today, but those were my experiments in growing independant.
I remember refusing to take any medicine when I caught fever. No matter how much phone calls from parents in Mumbai would coax. My explanation was simple, if at this prime youth my immunity is not strong enough, when would it be. I treated my fever with meditation. And its been 6 years since, but I've not had a single incident of fever.
Next to that comes the time in Mysore. When I would watch the channel showing traditional art performances. I had enjoyed the Yakshagana, Bharatnatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathakali. I share two beautiful links, which give me a sad feeling: Why could I not dedicate my Life to my passions, Music and Maths. Why did Life just not give me the direction/excellence/opportunity in it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CMquphTYM3w&feature=related
http://www.kalamandalam.org/daywithmasters.asp
Back in Mysore, I practised austerity. I developed the perfect flame of Vairagya. I knew of powers within us, and felt for the time, Nature looking over me. I wonder where in time has it all got lost in me. Where in time did I lose the eagerness to waking up before the Sun. Going for my early morning walks, talking to the security people. Climbing trees as if to fulfill a desire left unquenched from childhood (I'd realized long back I'm as good at rocks as a mountain goat). I experimented sleeping 6hrs a day. It was an utter failure, just as was the 7hrs sleep cycle in Bangalore. I have to admit my body needs 8hrs. Dozing when at work is definitely not worth it. Nowadays I believe the human body has a weekly cycle and sleep less on weekdays and more during weekends. I taught myself Yoga and Pranayam in Mysore. And I first started reading, appreciating and writing poetry in this culture capital. I'd never forget the visits to Goddess Chamundeswari and the view from the Chamundi Hills. I will take Jyothi back there someday.
Self-discovery is incomplete, if a man does not fall in love with women. But those lessons, and their learnings for Life (some of which I need to remind myself today) are worth a different topic itself. But the love I dedicate this article to, is my falling in love with Nature.
Growing up in the city, I'd missed out on it - falling in love with Nature. Every human needs this phase to make his life complete. Once he experiences it, he'll always keep craving for it. As Rudyard Kipling had said: A man can leave the mountains, but the mountains will always be within him. He'll want to keep coming back, and die there. It's true to do with nature. This is what I received from my stay in Bangalore and Mysore.
The pangs of pain, perhaps, took me back in time. I consider my time in Bangalore as favorite. Staying alone over weekends and discovering self.
Doing all there is to, by myself. Eating simple food at Aunty's Mess. Cleaning home and washing clothes. Exercising, music, composing poetry, running. Visits to the temple, after a one-time meal fast on Sundays. I miss all those. Sleeping with windows open, no matter how cold or dreary the climate and lone outside. Bathing in fresh water notwithstanding how cold.
i had once a cat come over to my bed. And once a snake in my bathroom. My roommate Sainath was one of the many I've seen in Life, who are better skilled than me. Intellectual discussions with him, I'll never get again perhaps. For when you talk on the phone, you only have time to catch up. Discussing in depth, are what only roommates can do. I look back and realize how stubborn and rigid I was at times. I'd take silent pleasure in being called a miser perhaps. I'd spend, but on books and music. I'd walk wherever I can, or only take a bus. I wanted a third roommate, to save costs (I distanced myself from my own idea later, realizing how-not just Sai- I too valued my privacy). We'd cut corners on who'd pay more for water (I was and still am a guzzler) and electricity (because he'd use a coil to heat water). Feels real immaturish today, but those were my experiments in growing independant.
I remember refusing to take any medicine when I caught fever. No matter how much phone calls from parents in Mumbai would coax. My explanation was simple, if at this prime youth my immunity is not strong enough, when would it be. I treated my fever with meditation. And its been 6 years since, but I've not had a single incident of fever.
Next to that comes the time in Mysore. When I would watch the channel showing traditional art performances. I had enjoyed the Yakshagana, Bharatnatyam, Mohiniyattam, Kathakali. I share two beautiful links, which give me a sad feeling: Why could I not dedicate my Life to my passions, Music and Maths. Why did Life just not give me the direction/excellence/opportunity in it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CMquphTYM3w&feature=related
http://www.kalamandalam.org/daywithmasters.asp
Back in Mysore, I practised austerity. I developed the perfect flame of Vairagya. I knew of powers within us, and felt for the time, Nature looking over me. I wonder where in time has it all got lost in me. Where in time did I lose the eagerness to waking up before the Sun. Going for my early morning walks, talking to the security people. Climbing trees as if to fulfill a desire left unquenched from childhood (I'd realized long back I'm as good at rocks as a mountain goat). I experimented sleeping 6hrs a day. It was an utter failure, just as was the 7hrs sleep cycle in Bangalore. I have to admit my body needs 8hrs. Dozing when at work is definitely not worth it. Nowadays I believe the human body has a weekly cycle and sleep less on weekdays and more during weekends. I taught myself Yoga and Pranayam in Mysore. And I first started reading, appreciating and writing poetry in this culture capital. I'd never forget the visits to Goddess Chamundeswari and the view from the Chamundi Hills. I will take Jyothi back there someday.
Self-discovery is incomplete, if a man does not fall in love with women. But those lessons, and their learnings for Life (some of which I need to remind myself today) are worth a different topic itself. But the love I dedicate this article to, is my falling in love with Nature.
Growing up in the city, I'd missed out on it - falling in love with Nature. Every human needs this phase to make his life complete. Once he experiences it, he'll always keep craving for it. As Rudyard Kipling had said: A man can leave the mountains, but the mountains will always be within him. He'll want to keep coming back, and die there. It's true to do with nature. This is what I received from my stay in Bangalore and Mysore.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
You are One
When the mind feels sullen, look beyond
When the soul feels a want, feel Mother Nature
In Nature lies, our deepest secrets
You cannot miss, the feel of oneness
We, and the trees, share the same soul
In their silence, the green, are only richer
As the Bodhisatva you too, came from them
You were once the tree, an ant,
And once a beautiful, bright flower
You are born of the union, of Sun and Nature
As all with Life, on this Earth
So look down at none, they are your kin
If not in words, reach them through soul
The Sun shines warm, the moon is calming
The tend butterflies, flutter our skin
Swim in blue rivers, run on grass
Breathe the fresh Air, this may be your only Life
When the soul feels a want, feel Mother Nature
In Nature lies, our deepest secrets
You cannot miss, the feel of oneness
We, and the trees, share the same soul
In their silence, the green, are only richer
As the Bodhisatva you too, came from them
You were once the tree, an ant,
And once a beautiful, bright flower
You are born of the union, of Sun and Nature
As all with Life, on this Earth
So look down at none, they are your kin
If not in words, reach them through soul
The Sun shines warm, the moon is calming
The tend butterflies, flutter our skin
Swim in blue rivers, run on grass
Breathe the fresh Air, this may be your only Life
Tuesday, June 08, 2010
The Moon
To a child the Moon is but, a beautiful white ball
A perfect round, in a dark starry night
He feels its watching over, singing a lullaby in rhythm
To the young lovers the Moon is, an enchanting hope
A metaphor of a girl, reflecting the light of her love
They dream of one-day, being as immortal together
To most grown-ups the Moon is, a lofty study
Its changing shapes, and the days it won't shine
They plan on reaching it, then breathing and living on it
To those old the Moon is, a great relief
Unchanging and nostalgic, midst much-changed life behind
They wish to just see it, re-live in its light
A perfect round, in a dark starry night
He feels its watching over, singing a lullaby in rhythm
To the young lovers the Moon is, an enchanting hope
A metaphor of a girl, reflecting the light of her love
They dream of one-day, being as immortal together
To most grown-ups the Moon is, a lofty study
Its changing shapes, and the days it won't shine
They plan on reaching it, then breathing and living on it
To those old the Moon is, a great relief
Unchanging and nostalgic, midst much-changed life behind
They wish to just see it, re-live in its light
Sunday, June 06, 2010
Thinking
Thoughts flow freely, the mind is awake
But to keep it from sleeping, what is the way
I must keep thinking, inquiring, debating
For that is the way, to keep cobwebs at bay
I must think deep, go within layers of the skin
Make a note for posterity, to know the way back
Must leave back my footprints, my memory and acts
It must pave the way for self, the world and for life
But to keep it from sleeping, what is the way
I must keep thinking, inquiring, debating
For that is the way, to keep cobwebs at bay
I must think deep, go within layers of the skin
Make a note for posterity, to know the way back
Must leave back my footprints, my memory and acts
It must pave the way for self, the world and for life
When the Time has Come
My soul is quiet, and the mind flies
But I know that my, direction in sight
And destiny will find me, when the time is right
If it were not meant, would Ying Zheng be king
Could the hero Jing Ke, not have got to him
Work hard I must, the path will unfold
Only memories of Now, will be left to hold
My quest, my love, for this Earth abound
Bring about unity, let the human awake
But I know that my, direction in sight
And destiny will find me, when the time is right
If it were not meant, would Ying Zheng be king
Could the hero Jing Ke, not have got to him
Work hard I must, the path will unfold
Only memories of Now, will be left to hold
My quest, my love, for this Earth abound
Bring about unity, let the human awake
Here Comes Spring
Spring is back, the leaves are red
Soon they will be, a vibrant green
Thin small shoots, born of mother nature
The bright sunlight, will kiss as father
I have felt, this touch of love
I mind not now, to dance its tune
As a peacock would not, when rains touch skin
Soon they will be, a vibrant green
Thin small shoots, born of mother nature
The bright sunlight, will kiss as father
I have felt, this touch of love
I mind not now, to dance its tune
As a peacock would not, when rains touch skin
I Once...
I Once ran out ,thinking will reach the end of Earth
Only to realize, that I had come but full Circle
I Once flew up, aiming at the Sky
Only to see myself, rising from the Waters
I Once prayed aloud, to appease the Gods
But only could hear him, in the Silence of my Heart
Only to realize, that I had come but full Circle
I Once flew up, aiming at the Sky
Only to see myself, rising from the Waters
I Once prayed aloud, to appease the Gods
But only could hear him, in the Silence of my Heart
Friday, June 04, 2010
Human Life: Moderation of all or Austerity for all
Ever since man evolved to be able to think, this has been the prevalent question: Why exactly this human life? A life we know, bestowed with so much power.
Consciousness to know I exist. That I am My Self, not someone else.
A mind that Thinks, and also Perceives.
A body that can be both strong and vulnerable.
With these ideals, we also have a curse bestowed upon us: Mistrust.
We just cannot get along, with each other and Nature. Through civilisations have we fought, almost knowingly seeking to destroy the rest of us.
Why were we given these particular qualities? Why was I born? What is my purpose? And then, what is the purpose of my brethren, fellow humans?
A Lifetime of a 100 years, of which in 20 we are our healthiest, most productive selves.
The first and last 20, we are dependant on others, but are also the greatest reasons, even teachers for those in the other generations.
The 40 years in between, we try to get by, be of help, in whatever roles we play!
So going back to my original question, what lies at the end of the rainbow? What will culminate civilisation? Where are we headed to? What as the human race, are our goals? Not just us, but the future generations, our own offsprings.
If you are unable to fathom anything else, one would say, at least know this as your goal. Ensure continuity of the human race. But to my mind, it bears the question: Why? An endless cycle, is it not? Subroto Roy said: No one does anything for anyone. Everything we do, is for our own satisfaction; it may be physical, mental and even emotional (when we "go out of our way to help").
If we look within, don't we bring a newborn to this world for our own selfish reasons? My child, My future!
Do we give birth to him/her that he may live a life of luxury. We know he has to go through all the pain and fury. Yes, mingled with fun and pleasure, but still the whole nine yards. So let's not deceive ourselves.
Notwithstanding why we are here, we have taken up on ourselves one purpose: progress! Except of-course, the terrorist, whose motives we don't really understand. But otherwise, through eras and civilisations, we have been bent upon progressing. In defining the roles of man and woman, refining our living habits and comforts, and producing and manufacturing more than our own needs.
We want to go faster, higher, reach out. What is the limit, we ourselves don't know.
Nature too throws a few toys at us: new diseases out of nowhere, natural calamities, and the Universe so vast. All mysteries we have given lifetimes to grasp.
One rationale I find is closest to explaining it, is that we are Atman. Through births having progressed to this highest form of life, awaiting liberation to meet the Parmatman, our original source.
If that we agree upon being true, our first reaction would be to be overwhelmed. It immediately then takes us to the path of seclusion-looking inward. Grow spiritually and suppress all "baser" needs. But if those be the lower, why are they in us.
Can anyone really stop our body from being hungry? And if so, why? The common nature of humans is to live together, in a "society". We are social beings.
So I doubt if denial really is the answer to our own growth. Would we not be wasting away the grand gifts blessed by Nature?
To summarize, if we are not to eat, why then a stomach. Even more, if we are not to think, why then the mind.
And that purpose brings me to the subject of this article, how do we live this Human Life?
I know not the whole answer, but I believe it lies in Lord Krishna's life. I'd strongly recommend the book 'Yuganta' by Iravati Karve.
He was human, but he understood Life. That was, indeed, the source of his vast understanding, and even powers.
He grew up, lived life, and died, as any normal human being. He was naughty as a child, infatuated as an adolescent, and well-married when in youth. He was as much a warrior as a philosopher who grew to realize strategy rather than personal combat gives more gains.
Krishna was as much driven by circumstance as we are. Born in the age where a great war was portent, respected for being wise by both warring sides, definitely not an enviable position. Even he could not stop his own clan from fighting amongst themselves and destroying themselves.
And I think the greatest lesson he learnt, and he kept reiterating to Arjuna before the war in Kurukshetra (now encompassed as the Bhagavad Gita) is this:
Experience It All, But Do Not Be Attached To It!
And the more I think, I live, I do things. The more I observe myself and situations around, the more I realize that to be true.
Realizing (and teaching) that is the cornerstone of what made Krishna immortal in time. (He was even elevated to the status of being an avatar of Lord Vishnu. Definitely a making from way after his time. Hinduism during that era, was based on self-enquiry, than the idol-worshipping and ritualistic religion it has now become.)
And that concludes my understanding and opinion on the topic:
Human Life itself is Not made for Austerity.
As the weekly cycle, we all have our needs- from the very life that we are born of.
The ordinary man can (and maybe should), experience all in Human Life, but in Moderation. Excess, is the mark of Attachment, the cause of all downfall.
As Gandhiji even once alluded, unless you touch the muddy water with your feet, you don't really know why to avoid it!
Consciousness to know I exist. That I am My Self, not someone else.
A mind that Thinks, and also Perceives.
A body that can be both strong and vulnerable.
With these ideals, we also have a curse bestowed upon us: Mistrust.
We just cannot get along, with each other and Nature. Through civilisations have we fought, almost knowingly seeking to destroy the rest of us.
Why were we given these particular qualities? Why was I born? What is my purpose? And then, what is the purpose of my brethren, fellow humans?
A Lifetime of a 100 years, of which in 20 we are our healthiest, most productive selves.
The first and last 20, we are dependant on others, but are also the greatest reasons, even teachers for those in the other generations.
The 40 years in between, we try to get by, be of help, in whatever roles we play!
So going back to my original question, what lies at the end of the rainbow? What will culminate civilisation? Where are we headed to? What as the human race, are our goals? Not just us, but the future generations, our own offsprings.
If you are unable to fathom anything else, one would say, at least know this as your goal. Ensure continuity of the human race. But to my mind, it bears the question: Why? An endless cycle, is it not? Subroto Roy said: No one does anything for anyone. Everything we do, is for our own satisfaction; it may be physical, mental and even emotional (when we "go out of our way to help").
If we look within, don't we bring a newborn to this world for our own selfish reasons? My child, My future!
Do we give birth to him/her that he may live a life of luxury. We know he has to go through all the pain and fury. Yes, mingled with fun and pleasure, but still the whole nine yards. So let's not deceive ourselves.
Notwithstanding why we are here, we have taken up on ourselves one purpose: progress! Except of-course, the terrorist, whose motives we don't really understand. But otherwise, through eras and civilisations, we have been bent upon progressing. In defining the roles of man and woman, refining our living habits and comforts, and producing and manufacturing more than our own needs.
We want to go faster, higher, reach out. What is the limit, we ourselves don't know.
Nature too throws a few toys at us: new diseases out of nowhere, natural calamities, and the Universe so vast. All mysteries we have given lifetimes to grasp.
One rationale I find is closest to explaining it, is that we are Atman. Through births having progressed to this highest form of life, awaiting liberation to meet the Parmatman, our original source.
If that we agree upon being true, our first reaction would be to be overwhelmed. It immediately then takes us to the path of seclusion-looking inward. Grow spiritually and suppress all "baser" needs. But if those be the lower, why are they in us.
Can anyone really stop our body from being hungry? And if so, why? The common nature of humans is to live together, in a "society". We are social beings.
So I doubt if denial really is the answer to our own growth. Would we not be wasting away the grand gifts blessed by Nature?
To summarize, if we are not to eat, why then a stomach. Even more, if we are not to think, why then the mind.
And that purpose brings me to the subject of this article, how do we live this Human Life?
I know not the whole answer, but I believe it lies in Lord Krishna's life. I'd strongly recommend the book 'Yuganta' by Iravati Karve.
He was human, but he understood Life. That was, indeed, the source of his vast understanding, and even powers.
He grew up, lived life, and died, as any normal human being. He was naughty as a child, infatuated as an adolescent, and well-married when in youth. He was as much a warrior as a philosopher who grew to realize strategy rather than personal combat gives more gains.
Krishna was as much driven by circumstance as we are. Born in the age where a great war was portent, respected for being wise by both warring sides, definitely not an enviable position. Even he could not stop his own clan from fighting amongst themselves and destroying themselves.
And I think the greatest lesson he learnt, and he kept reiterating to Arjuna before the war in Kurukshetra (now encompassed as the Bhagavad Gita) is this:
Experience It All, But Do Not Be Attached To It!
And the more I think, I live, I do things. The more I observe myself and situations around, the more I realize that to be true.
Realizing (and teaching) that is the cornerstone of what made Krishna immortal in time. (He was even elevated to the status of being an avatar of Lord Vishnu. Definitely a making from way after his time. Hinduism during that era, was based on self-enquiry, than the idol-worshipping and ritualistic religion it has now become.)
And that concludes my understanding and opinion on the topic:
Human Life itself is Not made for Austerity.
As the weekly cycle, we all have our needs- from the very life that we are born of.
The ordinary man can (and maybe should), experience all in Human Life, but in Moderation. Excess, is the mark of Attachment, the cause of all downfall.
As Gandhiji even once alluded, unless you touch the muddy water with your feet, you don't really know why to avoid it!
Thursday, June 03, 2010
Childhood's Play
From the farthest seas, to the northern mountains
Carefree, blithe, a pure delight
Growing up is, to a great extent
The place where grown-ups, want to be
Spraying water, building mud-dams
And keep on running, till you never get tired
Greatest are memories, of childhood's play
With siblings and friends, on a rainy day
Carefree, blithe, a pure delight
Growing up is, to a great extent
The place where grown-ups, want to be
Spraying water, building mud-dams
And keep on running, till you never get tired
Greatest are memories, of childhood's play
With siblings and friends, on a rainy day
End of a Wait
Deep in my restless mind, a seed borne fruit
Leads me to something, I know not how
In earnest wait, an intense flame
This fiery will, hope not is a candle wick
Walked I have, on Earth and Water
Breathed I have, and consumed passion
But rise I now must, or when else would it be
That the sun rises, to show Me the way
Leads me to something, I know not how
In earnest wait, an intense flame
This fiery will, hope not is a candle wick
Walked I have, on Earth and Water
Breathed I have, and consumed passion
But rise I now must, or when else would it be
That the sun rises, to show Me the way
Wednesday, June 02, 2010
Limits to Freedom of Expression - 1
A lot has expressed about "Freedom of Expression". As one of the pillars, holding the edifice that is democracy.By its very definition, democracy is rule of the majority. By that logic, freedom of expression in a democracy should be only to the level that it reflects the views of the majority.
But what complicates matters are the individual's right to express his opinion in a democracy.It definitely is hard to know what constitutes views of a majority, until you know the majority of that being expressed. And the majority will feel "free" to express only via "Freedom of Expression" of course.
So how does a government or society tread this fine line? When MF Hussain hurt the sentiments of the majority community of his motherland, he was forced to live in exile. He now has taken citizenship with another country There has been a lot of debate on what went wrong. A thoughtful point made by Sri Sri Ravi Sanka has silenced the din: If MF Hussain were to hurt the sentiments of the majority community in this other country, wouldn't he be subjected to the same.
But if MF Hussain had hurt the sentiments of a minority community, would that be acceptable? Of course not. But the majority could be accepting these views? Unarguably may be, yet it would be wrong. How does a government then protect the rights and sentiments of every community it governs while also protecting the individual's "Freedom of Expression"?
I read someplace that by carrying out censorship and calling something "obscene" is actually an obscenity carried out toward the freedom of expression.It is the same argument I shared above. Having said so, I also think censorship to an extent, is necessary. For example, say you do not place boundary walls to your home/country, what is to stop people from running into your area and setting a fire in the name of "expression". What is to stop a person from lying like there's no sacrilege, even loudly so its perceived by more as truth. Damage done can be both ways, tangible and intangible.
Right now, its the elected body that lays broad rules, the bureaucrats that apply them, all in the scrutiny of a vibrant media (perhaps the acid test).
It has its failings, and on a case-by-case basis, a nation's conscience is pricked. Protests are raised in a democracy when something expressed is just not acceptable (by the government/private body/individual). And the government acts to suppress/revert either the matter expressed, or the protests itself. In all of this, there is considerable waste of property, money, time, and much worse, even life.
Avoidable? If our norms were steadfast. But in a multi-cultural, secular democracy like India, a host to 28 states and an equal number of distinctly significant populations of communities, tied by a myriad range of religions and languages, how do we define such parameters?
(Thoughts welcome. To be continued...)
But what complicates matters are the individual's right to express his opinion in a democracy.It definitely is hard to know what constitutes views of a majority, until you know the majority of that being expressed. And the majority will feel "free" to express only via "Freedom of Expression" of course.
So how does a government or society tread this fine line? When MF Hussain hurt the sentiments of the majority community of his motherland, he was forced to live in exile. He now has taken citizenship with another country There has been a lot of debate on what went wrong. A thoughtful point made by Sri Sri Ravi Sanka has silenced the din: If MF Hussain were to hurt the sentiments of the majority community in this other country, wouldn't he be subjected to the same.
But if MF Hussain had hurt the sentiments of a minority community, would that be acceptable? Of course not. But the majority could be accepting these views? Unarguably may be, yet it would be wrong. How does a government then protect the rights and sentiments of every community it governs while also protecting the individual's "Freedom of Expression"?
I read someplace that by carrying out censorship and calling something "obscene" is actually an obscenity carried out toward the freedom of expression.It is the same argument I shared above. Having said so, I also think censorship to an extent, is necessary. For example, say you do not place boundary walls to your home/country, what is to stop people from running into your area and setting a fire in the name of "expression". What is to stop a person from lying like there's no sacrilege, even loudly so its perceived by more as truth. Damage done can be both ways, tangible and intangible.
Right now, its the elected body that lays broad rules, the bureaucrats that apply them, all in the scrutiny of a vibrant media (perhaps the acid test).
It has its failings, and on a case-by-case basis, a nation's conscience is pricked. Protests are raised in a democracy when something expressed is just not acceptable (by the government/private body/individual). And the government acts to suppress/revert either the matter expressed, or the protests itself. In all of this, there is considerable waste of property, money, time, and much worse, even life.
Avoidable? If our norms were steadfast. But in a multi-cultural, secular democracy like India, a host to 28 states and an equal number of distinctly significant populations of communities, tied by a myriad range of religions and languages, how do we define such parameters?
(Thoughts welcome. To be continued...)
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