Category Archives: column

BEAUTIFUL QUOTES & LOVELY LINES

Copyright@shravancharitymission

The future is limitless—Peter Thiel
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A right cause never fails- M K Gandhi
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“Old soldiers never die, they simply fade away” is an old
wartime ballad
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How can you remember someone you cannot forget—
Badrinath Singh
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‘To error is human; to forgive, divine’—Alexander Pope,
English Poet
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The soldier above all others prays for peace—Douglas
Macarthur
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Good words are worth much, and cost little—George Herbert
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Desire is necessary to initiate action
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Mahabharata unlike Ramayana is not about an ideal man. It
focuses on ethical and moral conflicts-faced in the pursuit of
dharma
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What goes around really comes around
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‘Now that we have made Italy let us make Italians’—Massimo
d’Azeglio
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The more people think only of themselves, the more
exclusive they become, and less able they become to accept
others
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Not every flower in a plant becomes fruit
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Fate’s ironic way of fighting the balance
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Krishna is in all and we all are in Krishna
One-in-all and all-in-one is Krishna
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Prices are the only thing that defy the law of gravity

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The promise given was a necessity of the past, the word
broken is a necessity of the present—Machiavelli
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‘What is a cynic? A man who knows the price of everything
and value of nothing’—OSCAR WILDE

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Posted by Kamlesh Tripathi

*

https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

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Share if you like it

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Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases. Should you wish to donate for the cause the bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(CAN BE BOUGHT FROM ON LINE BOOK STORES OR WRITE TO US FOR COPIES)

*****

 

CAUSERIE–AERIAL SIGNALS OF LOVE

   Copyright@shravancharitymission

    I was young then. My uncle used to stay in Niralanagar, a posh colony of Lucknow that was not very far from my home. He had an adjacent neighbour. Who, happened to be a Flight Lieutenant with the Indian Air Force. His name was Palta. Attached to the transport squadron where he flew Dakotas, and was posted in Bakshi-ka-talab, the defence airport of Lucknow. His chic and suave wife was Rita. Good looking and quite in line with the upbeat image of the armed forces wives.

    He often used to pilot the morning flight at 7 a.m. to Guwahati. It used to take him about five to six hours. Because, enroute, he used to off-load cargo at Bagdogra airport in West Bengal. Next day he used to return in the same manner from his sojourn. Where, he normally used to take-off from Guwahati at seven. And, after touching Bagdogra again, he used to reach Lucknow by around 1 P.M.

    I often used to go to my uncle’s house those days, to meet my cousins. He had a huge terrace where we used to go and play. And, whilst on it. I often used to notice Rita aunty, sitting in one corner of the adjacent terrace, alone, with her umbrella open, under the hot sun. And, I used to wonder why. But I never bothered to ask.

    One day, when the suspense became unbearable. I decided to break it. So I asked, ‘Aunty, why do you come and sit under the hot sun?’ she smiled at me and asked.

    ‘Who are you?’

    ‘Well, I am Bina’s cousin. I often come here, to spend time with her. But each time I came here. I saw you sitting in that corner with your umbrella, under the hot sun. So, I thought of asking you.’ She looked at me and smiled and then said.

    ‘I must say you are very observant beta. I’m waiting for your uncle. He should be coming any moment now.’ And with that she grinned again. I didn’t quite understand what she meant. I began to mull, ‘waiting for uncle and that too on the terrace in the peak of summers.’ It really wasn’t making any sense to me.

    ‘But is he going to fall from the sky that you’re waiting here aunty?’ I asked a bit loudly. She laughed in amusement.

    ‘You want to see him coming?’

    ‘Yes aunty.’

    ‘Then just wait here.’

    The suspense was beginning to get interesting now. So I decided to wait. Even when it was lunch time and I was hungry. After about ten minutes I could hear the faint sound of an approaching aircraft. Soon, it grew louder. Is when, aunty stood up and closed her umbrella, and started waving at the aircraft that was now descending into the nearby airport and wasn’t very high. I then saw, the pilot had dipped the left wing of the aircraft. And after a little while it vanished behind the tall trees. Skyscrapers had not come up then so the view was clear. After the sound of the aircraft subsided, she looked at me and said. ‘That was your uncle.’ I asked.

    ‘How do you know Aunty?’

    ‘Didn’t you see? He dipped the wing of the aircraft until it went behind the trees. That signal was for me.

    ‘Aunty, but why did he do that?’

    She smiled again and said, ‘Beta to announce his arrival. Now I need to go and cook for him.’

    ‘And what will you cook?

    ‘That’s a good question. If he dips the left wing, it would mean non-veg. Right would mean veg. And, if he doesn’t dip either, that would mean no lunch. So bye for now as I need to get into the kitchen.’ And with that she went away.

    I was dazed for a moment. I too went down for lunch. And after about forty five minutes. I could hear the sound of Mr Palta’s bike.

    Many years have passed since then. I don’t even know where Mrs Palta is. But, I could never forget this small and sweet incident that reflects so much about her love and concern for her husband. And, last but not the least. How they learnt to communicate from the sky, with each other—like in semaphores. When, mobile phones were not invented and even landlines had a long wait.

By Kamlesh Tripathi

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Share if you like it

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Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases. Should you wish to donate for the cause the bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(CAN BE BOUGHT FROM ON LINE BOOK STORES OR WRITE TO US FOR COPIES)

*****

 

REMEMBRANCE—AMMAJI

Copyright@shravancharitymission

  

Remembering mother on her birthday

    Moms are special. They are never too old for their children. They continue to bless. Even more special are their memories, when they are gone. That keeps rocking you, all your life. Look after her as long as she’s alive. As beyond that it is only sad remembrance. Few lines in her honour.

MOTHER

Years don’t distort,

Time doesn’t warp,

Lifetime doesn’t blot,

As mother’s priceless memory,

 Always remains atop.

*

Even when I know you’re not there,

Yet there is always something,

 That tells me,

You’re somewhere here and somewhere there,

For my life and for my care.

*

In the measure of time,

You carried me up to cloud nine,

Then cradled me with all the rhymes,

You fed me to grind,

And taught me to shine.

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My maiden friend,

The first to comprehend,

My lifelong mentor,

And evergreen centre.

*

In the shackles of time

You were always mine,

But when shackles unshackled,

God took you away in no time.

*

And since you’ve gone

Life is bereft of umpteen charms,

But the soul connect is still alive,

That revives the vibes

And that’s how life thrives.

*

Of all you taught me,

Each virtue is still fresh,

I May have forgotten school,

But you’re still afresh.

*

As time passes,

More of it comes along,

Just like your loving memories,

That keeps coming on and on.

*

Ma you’ll never fade,

You’ll always shine like the jade,

As long as I live,

And even beyond my days.

*

By Kamlesh Tripathi

*

https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

*

Share if you like it

*

Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases. Should you wish to donate for the cause the bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

(Archived in 7 prestigious libraries of the US including Harvard University and Library of Congress. It can also be accessed in MIT through Worldcat.org. Besides, it is also available for reading in Libraries and archives of Canada and Cancer Aid and Research Foundation Mumbai)  

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

(Archived in Connemara Library, Chennai and Delhi Public Library, GOI, Ministry of Culture)

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

(Launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival 2014)

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(Co-published by Cankids–Kidscan a pan India NGO and Shravan Charity Mission that work for Child cancer in India. The book is endorsed by Ms Preetha Reddy, MD Apollo Hospitals Group. Book was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival 2016)

(CAN BE BOUGHT FROM ON LINE BOOK STORES OR WRITE TO US FOR COPIES)

*****

 

TO ABANDON A DEPENDENT IS NOT ACCEPTABLE EVEN FOR HEAVEN

Copyright@shravancharitymission

 

 

DHARMRAJ YUDHISTIR’S RELIGIOSITY

 

    When, Maharaja Yudhistir came to know that Sri Krishna has ended his jeewanleela. And, post that Yadav’s too, have undergone self-destruction, because of infighting. He decided to coronate Arjun’s grandson Parikshit as the king of Hastinapur and head for sanyas. Keeping the difficult decision in mind he started preparing for it. To begin with he decided to give up the prestigious and coveted king’s costume and its jewelry. Following, which, he decided to enter into a maun-vrat and unlock his hair. Finally, he entered into veer-sanyas and left his Raj Bhawan and started walking towards the north. When, his brothers and even his wife Draupadi started following him.

    Yudhistir’s decision to renounce the world and it’s so called—moh-maya created ripples in his own mind. As a result of which, he stopped eating food and drinking water. He even stopped resting his body and mind and refrained from looking at anyone, in the eye. And, decided to keep moving without stopping anywhere. Until, he crossed Badrinath in the Himalayas. Where, his brothers and even his queen Draupadi were pacing up with him.

        After crossing Satyapath, Yudhistir entered the divine land of Swarga-rohan. But by now his brothers and his queen were extremely exhausted and they fell sick. Soon Draupadi, Nakul, Sahdev and even Arjun—they all fainted one by one and fell on the ground. The weather was freezing in Himalayas. So they couldn’t revive themselves and soon attained Him-Samadhi. Thereafter, the divine powers of the holy land sent them to Swarg where they attained moksha. But even these stupendous calamities, couldn’t stop Yudhistir. As, he was continuously moving, and never looked back even to catch a glimpse of his brothers and his wife. He was now bereft of rag-dwesh. In the end even Bhimsen, the strongest out of them, also collapsed and went into Him-Samadhi.

    When, Yudhistir was about to reach the top most mount of Swarga-rohan. He was not alone, in spite of the fact, that his brothers and his wife Draupadi, had entered into Him-Samadhi on the way. As, there was a dog, that was continuously following him, right from Hastinapur. When, Yudhistir finally reached the mount. Devraj Indra sat in his viman and descended on earth to meet him. He welcomed him and said—‘you’re the epitome of Dharma. So the swarg belongs to you. Please sit in my viman. So, that, I can take you there.’

    When, Yudhistir asked about his brothers and his wife Draupadi and requested, they too, be taken to swarg. Devraj replied—‘they have already reached.’

    Yudhistir then made another request—‘can we take this dog also in this viman.’

    Indra replied—‘you being the quintessential of dharma. Why do you talk like a novice? How can a dog enter swarg? Isn’t it enough that this desecrated being has had my darshan.’

    Yudhistir, wasn’t convinced by Indra’s logic. So he said—‘but the poor dog is dependent on me. Because of my devotion he has followed me all the way from Hastinapur. To renounce a living being that is dependent on you is adharma. So, deserting this dependent is not acceptable to me. And without him, I’m not willing to enter swarg.’

        Indra tried to counsel Yudhistir again—‘Rajan! You attain swarg only with the fruits of punya. Had this dog been a punyatma. He wouldn’t have been born as a dog.’

    Yudhistir politely said—‘God if that is the case. Then, I would like to donate half my punya to this dog.’

    ‘Dhanya ho, dhanya ho Yudhistir! I am very happy with you. And discarding the dog’s form, the Dharm-Devta appeared in front of him and blessed him.

    Moral of the story: Think thousand times, before you abandon someone who is dependent on you.

    Story is from Mahabharat

GLOSSARY

  • Maharaja—Great king
  • Jeewan-Leela—mortal role
  • Sanyas—life stage of renunciation within the Hindu philosophy
  • Maun-vrat—avow to remain silent
  • Veer-sanyas—renunciation from exercising strength
  • Raj-bhawan—official residence of king
  • Moh-maya—all things in the world are not real; they are fallacy, a presumed reality of the world held by people.’
  • Dharmacharn—good virtues
  • Him-Samadhi—meditative trance
  • Swarg—Heaven
  • Moksha—released from the cycle of rebirth
  • Rag-Dwesh—love and hate
  • Viman—mythological flying palace or chariot described in Hindu texts
  • Dharma—eternal law of cosmos
  • Darshan—divine audicience
  • Adharma—going against the law of cosmos
  • Punyatma—blessed soul
  • Dhanya ho—be blessed
  • Dharm Devta–God

**

By Kamlesh Tripathi

*

                                                      https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

*

Share if you like it

*

Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases. Should you wish to donate for the cause the bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(CAN BE BOUGHT FROM ON LINE BOOK STORES OR WRITE TO US FOR COPIES)

*****

 

 

POEM: THE RAT-RACE

Copyright@shravancharitymission

THE RAT- RACE

In the heat of life,

There was never a summer,

But when the heat was over,

Only the winter got closer.

*

In my hectic life,

I was always uptight,

About things that mattered,

And also about things that didn’t matter.

*

In the days of heat,

Life was like a marathon race,

Where some pseudo brainwaves,

Had termed it as a rat race.

*

One initially thought,

It’s a onetime race,

But sadly, it turned out to be,

A lifetime of a race.

*

Where, the rats were surprised,

That it was some enterprise,

Where man stole the race,

And made it into a rat race,

And that too, without their gaze.

*

It all started well,

Like the string of jingle bells,

But soon the jingle was over,

And you were left as a rover.

*

There was so much to do,

And so much to improve,

Where I had my own dreams,

To brew and stew,

Until one day I realised,

I had a career to pursue.

*

Between the race and career,

Man had no breather,

Soon he became a teaser,

And with that a big schemer.

*

That resulted in endless pursuits,

And pointless disputes,

Bereft of generosity,

And full of ferocity,

Where humans were estranged,

And demons were ordained.

*

From exhaustive to repetitive lifestyle,

To loads of competition,

Until one day I realised,

Sanity was about to get paralysed.

*

As the stance of life was changing,

Where heat was evaporating,

Where winter was upstaging,

Grace was receding,

And where time was forsaking.

*

Is when I asked the creator,

What happens now?

When heat becomes cold,

Summer becomes winter,

Hectic become skeptic,

And I become rustic.

*

Nothing said the creator,

As good sense of life is always greater,

Then the rat race,

That happens to be a crater,

And in disguise a hater.

*

So come out of it,

To live in the winter,

That also has a summer,

That also has a shelter.

*

For rat race is just a phase,

And phase should not be a craze,

And the ultimate is encased,

In the wisdom of faith.

***

Share if you like it

By Kamlesh Tripathi

***

Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases. Should you wish to donate for the cause the bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

         Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

         IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

(Archived in 7 prestigious libraries of the US, including, Harvard University and Library of Congress. It can also be accessed in MIT through Worldcat.org. Besides, it is also available for reading in Libraries and archives of Canada and Cancer Aid and Research Foundation Mumbai)  

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

(Archived in Connemara Library, Chennai and Delhi Public Library, GOI, Ministry of Culture)

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

(Launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival 2014)

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(Co-published by Cankids–Kidscan, a pan India NGO and Shravan Charity Mission, that works for Child cancer in India. The book is endorsed by Ms Preetha Reddy, MD Apollo Hospitals Group. Book was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival 2016)

TYPICAL TALE OF AN INDIAN SALESMAN

Story of an Indian salesman who is lowly qualified but fights his ways through uncertainities to reach the top. A good read for all salesmen. Now available in Amazon.com

(CAN BE BOUGHT FROM ON LINE BOOK STORES OR WRITE TO US FOR COPIES)

*****

 

COULD THE BRITISH RAJ HAVE BLUNTED THE INTENSITY OF CASTEISM IN INDIA?

Copyright@shravancharitymission

 

 

     It is said—‘In India you can change your religion but not your caste.’ But this reality almost met with a challenge from the Britishers at the time of the British Raj which is largely unknown. In fact, had the British Raj, pushed its way through, it would have shown the way for abolishment of the caste system, all together. But they began only with criminals, by sending them to Andamans, better known as Kala Pani. (Literal meaning is ‘black waters’. But ‘Kala’ also signifies ‘kaal’—that signifies the time of death).

    If the British so wanted. In the eighty nine years of their dictatorial rule. They could have at least blunted the ferocity of the caste system in India, if not completely uprooted. But they had other nefarious designs that was to divide and rule. So, while on one hand they exploited the caste rivalry in the mainland, on the other they got rid of it by sending criminals to islands in Kala Pani. Where, they could rid them of their caste. But sadly, most of them were freedom fighters whom they had held as prisoners.

        These remote islands in Andamans, were considered suitable to punish the ‘India Independence’ activists—called the freedom fighters. Not only were they isolated from the mainland. The overseas journey to the islands (Kala Pani) also threatened them with loss of caste that could have resulted in social exclusion. Sadly, this is also corroborated by Hindu religious scriptures. These convicts were largely used in chain-gangs, to construct prisons, buildings and harbor facilities. Many were finally hanged and many died while building these structures. Where, they largely served to colonize the island for the British.

    That brings us, to the moot point. What about those Hindus, who were not prisoners? But have travelled overseas, either on business or pleasure. Have they also lost their caste identity like those prisoners, just because they crossed the seas? Because, as per the scriptures. Those Hindus who have travelled overseas, automatically lose their caste, and to retrieve it they need to go in for deep penance. Further, if we are to believe in the caste system. We also need to believe in the scriptures with equal measure. As both are ancient and part of our tenets. For it can’t be that on one hand we believe in the caste system but give the other theory a grand miss. For our religious scriptures below, say it all.

    The offense of crossing the sea is known as “Samudrolanghana” or “Sagarollanghana.” The Dharma Sutra of Baudhayana (II.1.2.2) lists sea voyages as first of the offences that cause the loss of varna (caste). The Dharma Sutra suggests a person can wipe away this offense in three years by eating little at every fourth meal time. By bathing at dawn, noon and dusk; standing during the day; and seated during the night.

    The reasons behind the taboo include the inability, to carry out the daily rituals, and the sin of contact with the mlecchas (barbarians). The fear of crossing the seas also derives from the notion. That it entailed the end of the reincarnation cycle as the traveler was cut off from the regenerating waters of the Ganges. Such voyages also meant breaking family and social ties. And, according, to another belief in the pre-modern India the Kala Pani (sea water) was inhabited by the houglis, bad spirits and monsters.

    During the Age of Discovery, Portuguese sailors noted that Hindus were reluctant to engage in maritime trade due to this taboo. In the eighteenth century, the Banias of North India, considered, even the crossing of the Indus River, at Attock as a taboo, and underwent purification rituals upon their return. However, not all Hindus adhered to the taboo, especially the Hindu merchants located in Burma, Muscat and other places.

    So, can we, then say. All those Hindus, who have traveled overseas, are now devoid of any caste?

*

By Kamlesh Tripathi

*

                                                       https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

*

Share if you like it

*

Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases. Should you wish to donate for the cause the bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(CAN BE BOUGHT FROM ON LINE BOOK STORES OR WRITE TO US FOR COPIES)

*****

 

 

SHORT STORY: THE GOOD MAN

Copyright@shravancharitymission

 

 

 

    Once upon a time there lived a rich person who had built a huge temple in his hometown. And to service the temple he had also kept one poojari, to perform the daily puja. To, meet the expenses of the temple, he had even transferred his assets, such as land, farm and even his orchards in its name. He had done such a meticulous planning and organized the whole thing in such a manner. That, for all the devotees coming to the temple; those who were hungry or in pain, or any other person who was poor or even a sadhu (sage) could have, stayed there for a couple of days. He could have eaten the prasad from the temple as his meal. And after putting all these wonderful ideas in place, he was now on the lookout for a manager. Who could handle the temple property honestly along with its systems and procedures in an efficient manner.

    Many candidates came to the him for the job. They all knew. That if they are selected as the manager of the temple. They will get a good salary. But the rich man rejected everyone. He told them—he required only a good man. And, that, he’ll be able to find one himself.

    On this unbecoming behavior of the rich person, people starting abusing and cursing him discreetly. Some even started calling him simpleton and mad. But, the rich man did not pay any heed to what anyone said. When the temple used to open in the morning and people used to line up for darshan. He used to climb up to the terrace. From where, he used to quietly watch all the devotees who came for darshan. One day a simple looking person came to the temple. His clothes were torn and dirty. He didn’t appear to be well educated. He had his darshan after which he was about to leave. When the rich man called him to his house and asked—‘Sir! would you like to work as the manager of this temple?’

    The man was rather surprised. He said—‘I’m not very educated. So, I, really don’t know, how I’ll be able to handle the management of this huge temple?’

    Rich man said—‘I don’t want a very educated manager either. I’m just looking for a good man. Who could become the manager of this temple.’

    The man politely replied—‘My dear brother. In this sea of human beings around the temple, what made you feel. That I am the sole good man around?’

    Rich man mildly elucidated—‘I know you are a good man, because this pathway to the temple had a pointed edge of a stone jutting out. And for many a days now, I was watching it. Many people had hurt themselves and some even fell because of it. Then they used to get up and just go away. But you were different. You were not hurt with that stone. Yet, considering, someone else might get hurt. You decided to pull it out. I was watching you, when you called for the shovel from my labour. Only to take the trouble of digging that stone out. Thereafter, you leveled the area for others comfort and safety.

       The man responded—‘but that is nothing. In fact, it is every man’s duty to remove thorns, pebbles and even stones, stuck in the ground that might hurt someone else.’

    To which the Rich man confided—‘people who are clear about their duties and also believe in performing it, alone are good men.’

    The man was thus appointed the manager of the temple. Where, the rich man was not wrong, because he administered the temple in a very efficient manner.

Posted by Kamlesh Tripathi

*****

https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

*

Share it if you like it

*

Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases especially cancer. Should you wish to donate for the cause. The bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

(The book is about a young cancer patient. Now archived in 7 prestigious libraries of the US, including, Harvard University and Library of Congress. It can also be accessed in MIT through Worldcat.org. Besides, it is also available for reading in Libraries and archives of Canada and Cancer Aid and Research Foundation Mumbai)  

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

(Is a book on ‘singlehood’ about a Delhi girl now archived in Connemara Library, Chennai and Delhi Public Library, GOI, Ministry of Culture, Delhi)

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

(Is a fiction written around the great city of Nawabs—Lucknow. It describes Lucknow in great detail and also talks about its Hindu-Muslim amity. That happens to be its undying characteristic. The book was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival of 2014)

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(Co-published by Cankids–Kidscan, a pan India NGO and Shravan Charity Mission, that works for Child cancer in India. The book is endorsed by Ms Preetha Reddy, MD Apollo Hospitals Group. It was launched in Lucknow International Literary Festival 2016)

TYPICAL TALE OF AN INDIAN SALESMAN

(Is a story of an Indian salesman who is, humbly qualified. Yet he fights his ways through unceasing uncertainties to reach the top. A good read not only for salesmen. The book was launched on 10th February, 2018 in Gorakhpur Lit-Fest. Now available in Amazon, Flipkart and Onlinegatha

(ALL THE ABOVE TITLES ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN AMAZON, FLIPKART AND OTHER ONLINE STORES OR YOU COULD EVEN WRITE TO US FOR A COPY)

*****

 

 

 

‘SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION’ RECEIVES APPRECIATION FROM APOLLO HOSPITALS GROUP

Copyright@shravancharitymission

 

TOUCHING LIVES

‘SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION’ RECEIVES APPRECIATION FROM APOLLO HOSPITALS

 

    We are delighted to inform our donors and well wishers. That Apollo Hospitals, which happens to be one of the leading chain of hospitals in India. Has accorded recognition to the work we have done for ‘poor children suffering from life threatening diseases.’

    On 24th December 2016, Apollo Hospitals celebrated their ‘Brave Hearts’ day, where the recognition was announced. It was a glittering function held in their auditorium at Sarita Vihar in Delhi. Where, apart from little brave hearts. The function was well attended by Doctors, officials, parents of brave hearts and NGO staff.

     Shravan Charity Mission was registered in 2010. But due to unavoidable circumstances it could start work only in 2012. Since then it has touched many lives.

    On this sterling moment we would like to thank Apollo Hospitals for their cooperation in bringing about the best in us. And we pledge to continue with our mission.

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Posted by Kamlesh Tripathi

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                                                           https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

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Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases. Should you wish to donate for the cause the bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

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Our publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(CAN BE BOUGHT FROM ON LINE BOOK STORES OR WRITE TO US FOR COPIES)

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MAHABHARAT-DRAUPADI’S PARDON

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    The holy war of Mahabharat had just about ended in which Pandavas had had a thumping victory. But in spite of all this there was a frightening and lasting lament in Pandava’s camp. But no one knew exactly why. When suddenly, Draupadi’s make shift tenement was filled with shrills and bloody echoes of wail. Pandavas ran towards the chamber of Panchali from where these hell cries were coming.  

    The scene was truly gruesome. As there lay, the dead and severed heads of all the five sons of Draupadi in a pool of blood. That was even smeared on their torso. Dharmraj Yudhistir couldn’t bear the scene when he whimpered, ‘Draupadi … its heart rendering.’ And beyond that he couldn’t utter a word. Perhaps, with these few words, his unqualified agony together with surprise and inquisition, all came alive in one go.

    Upon witnessing the gory scene, Gandeevdhari Arjun’s shoulders started twitching. He couldn’t control himself, when he yelled in anger—‘except for that morbid devil Ashwaththama. Who else could have carried out this ghastly crime? Wipe your tears Devi. As I enter into a pratigya, that I will make this rogue prostrate at your feet. I will squash him with my legs, so that you can bathe with his blood.’ Arjun then requested Krishna to be his charioteer. He then wore his armour and lifted his Gandeev and charged after Ashwaththama. Clean-handed Pandavas were now listless, at the brutal murder of their sons. They were now getting wild and ferocious and wanted revenge forthwith. Under the circumstances, scared Ashwaththama couldn’t have remained out of their clutches for long.

    After arresting Ashwaththama. Arjun was beginning to get restless. He asked, ‘Madhusudhan, what should we do with this rogue? How should we punish him?’ And, before, he could even complete his sentence, Lord Krishna in an angry tone reacted—‘Parth! The rascal Brahmin’s execution, alone, is the way out. This was your vow too. So, where is the question of any permission in this matter?’

    But while grieving on her dead sons, when, Draupadi saw Guruputra Ashwaththama tied in ropes and lying in the courtyard. She stood up and started pleading for mercy with Arjun—‘Prannath! Please forgive him.’

    But Arjun remained adamant. He said, ‘Draupadi sit on his chest—I want you to bathe with his blood.’

   But Draupadi kept beseeching in her gruff timbre. She folded her hands to namaskar Ashwaththama, and then addressed Arjun—‘Aryaputra! Ashwaththama happens to be the son of the same hallowed person from whom you have learnt superior war skills. He is also a Brahmin and therefore respectable to Chatriyas. His mother Kripi is even alive today. So, for the sake of her motherhood, where, she sees her son Ashwaththama as her only motive in life to live and doesn’t follow her husband anymore, you must pardon him. And Nath! Also, my sons won’t return to life even if Ashwaththama is sent to the gallows. The way I’m weeping for them. His mother too will weep for him, and God only knows what else she might do. In case I can’t give happiness to someone why should I be the reason for his sorrow?’

    Arjun, along with all his brothers was watching this amazing scene of morality being spelt out by Draupadi. Standing on the side was Bakenbihari in his usual manner, in a calm posture. When he slowly came forward and sarcastically said—‘what happened Arjun, why have you stopped? Come, lift the sword.’

    Arjun bowed at Lord Krishna and said—‘Madhav please pull me out of this dharmsankat’

    Srikrishna as if testing Arjun’s patience said—‘I am once again repeating my orthodoxical tenet to you. And, mind you. I am repeating it for your benefit alone parth!—Not to kill a fallen Brahmin, but to kill a miscreant—this alone is the ultimate dharma.’

    Arjun was spellbound for a moment. But he was a celebrator of wisdom and knowledge. And for him, as if the golden, primordial hint was enough. When he acted forthwith. By pulling out the mani embedded in Ashwaththama’s forehead and thereafter tonsuring him. He then left him to wander as an insulted Brahmin who is anyway like a dead person.

Thus without killing the Brahmin, Arjun gave Ashwaththama punishment equivalent to death and fulfilled his pratigya.

Glossary

Panchali – another name of Draupadi

Gandeevdhari- the bearer of bow—Arjun

Devi – Divine Draupadi

Gandeev – Bow

Pratigya- Vow

Madhav/Bakenbihari/Madhusudhan–  Another name of Lord Krishna

Parth- One who doesn’t miss his target. Name given to Arjun by Lord Krishna

Prannath- Lord of life

Namaskar- Hindu greetings.

Aryaputra – Noble prince.

Nath- Lord.

Dharm sankat- moral ambiguity

Mani-jewel

 

Extracted from Srimad bhagwat puran.

 

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Posted by Kamlesh Tripathi

*

https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

*

Share if you like it

*

Shravan Charity Mission is an NGO that works for poor children suffering from life threatening diseases. Should you wish to donate for the cause the bank details are given below:

NAME OF ACCOUNT: SHRAVAN CHARITY MISSION

Account no: 680510110004635 (BANK OF INDIA)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

*

Our publications

GLOOM BEHIND THE SMILE

ONE TO TANGO … RIA’S ODYSSEY

AADAB LUCKNOW … FOND MEMORIES

REFRACTIONS … FROM THE PRISM OF GOD

(CAN BE BOUGHT FROM ON LINE BOOK STORES OR WRITE TO US FOR COPIES)

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OUR VISIT TO GOOD SAMARITAN DORRIS FRANCIS

Copyright@shravancharitymission

Kamlesh Tripathi

Dr Sujata with Dorris Francis

 

Help is pouring in for ‘traffic heroine.’ As TOI puts it in their Noida edition dated 30th November 2016. In our blog we have previously written about her. (URL is below)

https://goo.gl/tGJuv8  Contribute for Good Samaritan Dorris Francis’s cancer treatment.

On 3rd December we too visited her, to do our bit. The picture shows it all. You too can make your contribution for this brave person as per account details given below:

Name of account: Shravan Charity Mission

Bank of India account no: (680510110004635)

IFSC code: BKID0006805

Or mail your cheque to

Shravan Charity Mission

S-002, Arihant Ambience

Crossings Republik

Ghaziabad-201009

Uttar Pradesh

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