Category Archives: column

EVEN#WOMEN #MPs NEED TO BE REMINDED ABOUT ARCHAIC #ABORTION LAWS IN INDIA

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By Kamlesh Tripathi

 

 

    There are 544 members in the 16th Lok Sabha, and 244 members in the Rajya Sabha, which totals up to 788 MPs. Out of this there are 93 women MPs. That includes the powerful speaker of Lok-Sabha who happens to be a lady. And, yet they don’t have the time and will, and needed to be reminded about the draft Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Bill, 2014. Pending for a long time now. I am more than sure they all understand the seriousness about abortion laws. Especially, when the foetus has abnormalities or is an ugly consequence of a rape. The editorial in Times of India is an apt reminder not only to our women MPs, who should use women power to get the bill through but even to all our legislators. Currently the apex courts are doing the job of legislators. Read the article below.

IT’S HER BODY

Today’s society and science demand an upgrade of the abortion law 1971

    Parliament’s lackluster pace of legislating leaves citizens suffering various outdated laws. Two cases in the courts this week draw attention to the human costs of a delay in amending the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971—even though an updated draft has been on the table for years. Both cases concern the medical terminations of pregnancy being permitted only up to 20 weeks, a limit that made sense in terms of society and science four decades ago but is seriously out of step with the many developments since. When law’s failure to keep pace with science and global best practices becomes the cause of citizen’s suffering, its very purpose is subverted.

In one case on Monday the Supreme Court allowed a rape survivor to terminate her 24-week old pregnancy. This is the first judicially sanctioned abortion beyond 20 weeks. It followed upon a medical board reporting severe abnormalities in the foetus and its threatening implications for the petitioner. The point of note is that medical technology today can disclose much more information about the foetus after 20 weeks than earlier. Plus, it can make termination of the pregnancy safe for the carrying woman even at 24 weeks.

In another case also on Monday the Delhi high court granted similar relief to a teenaged rape survivor, provided an AIIMS medical panel certifies that the abortion of her 25-week foetus would be safe for this minor. Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi told the apex court that the existing law, with its 2002 amendment, is adequate to handling pregnancy complications warranting abortion after 20 weeks. But the above two cases show that women stuck in such a situation have to seek an exception through the courts, which imposes additional trauma upon women who are already traumatized. Given the logjam at our courts, this also leaves their life in a race against time.

The draft Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Bill, 2014 provides for abortion beyond 20 weeks under well defined conditions such as if mother’s life is endangered or the pregnancy is caused by rape. Centre should push for this updated legislation instead of upholding a status quo scripted four decades ago. Medical opinion and women’s groups are agreed and it is not even politically contentious. Every delay in passing an upgrade endangers many women’s lives.

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Article: Bollywood between Diamond and Platinum Jubilee

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Bollywood between diamond and Platinum jubilee  

Remake: epic serial ‘Mahabharat’ starring superstars

 

    ‘Bollywood’ is the sobriquet for the Hindi film industry that is based out of Mumbai. The term is also, loosely used, as a synecdoche to refer to the whole of Indian cinema. It has made millions and trillions through movies. And has a huge Indian following. The name has even made ripples abroad. It has now been in existence for more than eighty five years. Raja Harishchandra, was the first silent feature film made by Dadasaheb Phalke in 1913. By 1930s, the Indian Film Industry was producing over 200 films per annum. Since then it has never looked back. It is one of the largest film producers in India. Representing 43% of net box office revenue. While Telugu and Tamil cinema represent 36%. The rest of the regional cinema constitutes 21% as of 2015. It is also one of the largest centers for film production in the world. Formally referred to as ‘Hindi cinema.’ It is one of the biggest movie industries in the world, in terms of the number of people employed and the number of films produced in 2011. Where, over 3.5 billion tickets were sold across the globe. Which in comparison is 900,000 tickets more than Hollywood.

    Hitherto, Bollywood, has functioned quite enviously, under different banners for more than eighty five years. And has given us some wonderful movies. But it is about time. It now comes under one united banner. To give India the entertainment of a lifetime—the real dhamaka of the century.

    It missed the lifetime opportunity of a diamond jubilee celebration. And platinum is still far away. But by then many superstars of today may hang their boots. So now is the right time. To produce a mega serial where all the diggajes of Bollywood can come together and act, and for the sake of Bollywood’s commemoration they should act free. If we delay it further. We may miss out on many such great actors coming together as they may call it a day. The idea is to make them act together in a mega project. Which may not be possible in a three hour movie. I would therefore suggest a remake of the great epic ‘Mahabharat’ which is still the most popular serial ever made in the Indian history.

    Imagine how would you feel watching Mahabharat. Scripted by the all time famous duo of Saleem-Javed as was done in Sholay, music by A.R Rehman, songs by Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhonsale, Anuradha Podwal, Anup Jalota and Bhupendra (unfortunately Kishore and Mukesh are no more). And my dream my caste. To name a few would be: Amitabh Bachchan as Bheeshma Pitamah, Nana Patekar as Dronacharya, Anupam Kher as Mahatma Vidur, Ajay Devgun as Krishna, Amir Khan as Karan, Shahrukh Khan as Yudhistir, Salman Khan as Bheem, Kritik Roshan as Arjun, Ranbir Kapur as Nakul, Abhishek Bachchan as Sahdev, Javed Jafri as Shakuni, Danny as Dhritrasth (ideal would have been Amrish Puri, but sad he is no more), Jaya Bachan as Gandhari, Shabana as Kunti, Priyanka Chopra as Draupadi.

These are only few names and characters with my limited knowledge. Once you start detailing it. Many more icons will surface, to take on many more challenging characters of Mahabharat.

But will this ever happen? Well nothing is impossible. The way we like watching Mughle-Azam even after half a century. This serial too shall be watched for time immemorial.

Come on Bollywood. Start thinking about it.

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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

(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)

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

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Story: God likes simple ways

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    Once, Kannap, who happened to be the head of the Bheel (tribal) community. Landed up in a temple, located in a remote jungle, after a hunt.

    Temple housed an old idol of Lord Shiva. And upon noticing, the idol to be in a degraded state. Kannap got a little emotional. He was simple person at heart and felt—‘Shiva is alone in this jungle with countless wild and notorious animals. Hope no animal comes in the night and attacks him.’ By now it was evening and getting dark. Concerned, Kannap loaded his bow with an arrow and decided to guard the temple by standing across the door, where he spent the entire night.

    At dawn, Kannap thought of doing puja in the temple. But truly speaking he didn’t know how to perform one. So, he went to the jungle and killed an animal and roasted its flesh on fire for prasad. He then climbed a tree and broke open a honeycomb and collected honey. Thereafter he collected everything in a leaf-bowl and then plucked some flowers and stuck them on his unruly hair and plaits. He then filled his mouth with water from the nearby river and reached the temple to perform his puja. The idol had some dry leaves and flowers rotting on it. Kannap, removed it, with his feet, as his hands were tied up. With one hand he was holding his bow and with the other he was holding the leaf-bowl filled with roasted flesh and honey. He washed the idol with the water in his mouth. And then he pulled out the flowers from his hair and started respectfully placing them in front of Shiva. Thereafter, he placed the leaf bowl in front of the idol. After which, in his simplicity he thought the puja is over, and then with his bow and arrow he started guarding the temple.

    In all of this Kannap forgot about his home, his family, and so much so that he even forgot his hunger and his sleep. In his endeavour to safeguard his beloved God and performing the puja. He as if forgot his world and his own self and even his body.

    But, surprisingly, in that very temple. Every morning a Brahmin also used to come from a distant village to perform puja and after the ritual he used to go back. He normally came when Kannap was away in the forest, hunting. And on finding morsels of flesh in the temple the Brahmin was saddened. He walked up to the river and got some fresh water and cleaned the temple. He bathed again to perform the puja. But this was not a matter pertaining to a particular day. When the Brahmin found, the temple in this condition every morning he decided, ‘today I’ll hide and see as to who is this person who is polluting and soiling the temple every day.’

    Brahmin hid himself in the temple and started gazing to and fro from the camouflage. After a little while he was astounded to see a scary appearing bheel (tribal) carrying a bow and arrow on his shoulders. After seeing him. He did not have the guts to say anything. But when Kannap entered the temple. He was shocked to see that one eye of the idol was bleeding. He slowly kept the leaf-bowl on the ground and started weeping himself—‘Who is this devil who has hurt my God in the eyes?’

    Immediately, Kannap loaded his bow and ran out of the temple. He wanted to kill the person who had inflicted injury upon the idol. But he could find no one. Soon he kept his bow and arrow on the side and started collecting some grass and leaves. And in a little while he had collected a heap. He then returned to the temple and started crushing what he had collected, and started applying it on the eyes of the idol. But even by doing so Kannap was not successful in stopping the bleeding. This made Bheelkumar Kannap extremely uneasy. But just then he remembered what another bheel (tribesman) had once told him—‘In the wound of a person if the same body part of a different person is placed then the wound heals immediately.’ Kannap was happy to remember it. He decided to act immediately. From his quiver he quickly pulled out an arrow and with that he scooped out his own eye. Even, when, it pained to the hilt and placed it on the eye of the idol and pressed it hard. But from his own wound, from where he had pulled out his eye, blood had started oozing out profusely, but he was unaware of the pain. On the contrary he was feeling happy that it had stopped the bleeding from the eye of the idol.

    But the agony was not over yet. As just then the other eye of the idol also started bleeding. But Kannap by now had the therapeutic solution for it. He kept the toe of his foot on that eye of the idol, so that after he scoops his second eye and goes blind it will not be difficult for him to find the second bleeding eye in the idol. And with his arrow he scooped out his second eye. But before that suddenly there was divine illumination in the temple. From the idol, Lord Shiva emanated and embraced Kannap; and said,

    ‘Dear Brahmin! Puja and its complex methods don’t make me happy. What really, makes me happy is the earnest and respectful feelings of a devotee towards me.’ Lord Shiva addressed the Brahmin hiding there. And by now Kannap’s eyes had healed as that became Ashutosh’s (Shiva’s) prasad, and along with him he went to his divine abode. The Brahmin too, because of Bheelkumar Kannap’s simple ways that God liked, got darshan of Lord Shiva.

    And that is why it is said, ‘it is so simple to be happy, but so difficult to be simple.’

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Posted by Kamlesh Tripathi

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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

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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)

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

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ARROGANCE LEADS TO DESTRUCTION-LEARN IT FROM DURYODHAN

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    Just before the commencement of the holy war of Mahabharat. Arjun broke down in the battle field when his emotions ran high. He was unable to come to terms with the prevailing circumstances that soon he would have to fight his near and dear ones, that is the Kuruvansh. Who happened to be his first cousins, and where his main rival was Duryodhan. He got into a state of torment when he suddenly saw mighty and stupendous Bhishma Pitamah standing right opposite him, and ready to take him on. When, Arjun emotionally reflected, he had spent his entire childhood in the cradle of his arms. And flanked on either sides of Pitamah were his revered Gurus—Dronacharya and Kripacharya all tied down by various pratigyas (vows) to defend the Kuruvansh. In the mid all of this he was suppose to raise the battle cry to deluge them in the sea of destruction.

    And when Arjun was unable to withstand the emotional pressure. He looked up to Lord God Krishna who was his charioteer and entered into a divine conversation with him. Where, Krishna sermonized Arjun, to pick up arms against his close relatives and fight for righteousness. He responded to his mighty sakha (friend) Krishna, but at the same time desired to see his “Vishwaroop” (omni divine form) in order to get out of his tender and weak spell. Krishna obliged and post that he said:

    ‘Dear Arjun! I am pleased that you are my friend and bhakt (devotee) and therefore with my antarangaa shakti (inner strength) I was able to show you my “Vishwaroop.” For bear it in mind, before you, no one else in this universe has ever seen the aaseem tatha tajomaya aadi-roop of mine. And you would have realized, my “Vishwaroop” was shinning like the sun and the faces in it were continuously changing like the cycle of birth and death.’ Notable: Krishna had revealed his omni-form to a composed Arjun.

    When Arjun was shown this breathtaking form which was scary in some ways, even avatars and devotees from swarg lok (heaven) and people from other lokas got a glimpse of it only because of him. One could say with the blessings of Lord Krishna all his disciples and followers were able to have a darshan of his Vishwaroop that Arjun was witnessing.

    It is believed when Krishna went to Duryodhan with the peace (sandhi) proposal before Mahabharat. Due to sheer arrogance Duryodhan not only rejected the offer but also attempted to insult and imprison him. And at that time. Krishna in extreme anger showed him some form of his Vishwaroop which was quite different than what was shown to Arjun. But unfortunately ignoramus Duryodhan in his haughtiness and false pride could not understand the divine message from him otherwise the war of Mahabharat could have been averted.

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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

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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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Poem: Joy

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JOY

In search of joy I wandered,

Only to be squandered,

In pursuit of joy I plundered,

But while doing so I blundered.

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Like an alluring dream,

Joy enticed me forever,

Into actions of demean, that played havoc,

With my simple serene.

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In the voyage of life,

I thought important was the end,

And not the means to the end,

So I adopted various means,

Only to achieve the coveted end,

Until one day I realized,

End is only fruitful,

If it is through the right means.

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And while running after joy,

I could only find the venom of waste,

That had left me high and dry,

To the rigors of depraved taste.

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For joy was not any achievement,

Nor a prized possession,

And definitely not a status symbol,

And certainly not a glorious complexion,

But only a healthy mental condition.

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For joy was simple,

Joy was visible,

Joy was small,

Joy was tiny and not tall,

Yet it took me a lifetime,

 To understand the meaning of joy,

And in that manner it was quite an overall.

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I ambled and scrambled,

Wherever I landed,

In search of joy,

When ultimately I realized.

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Joy resided in my timid smile and bold laughter,

In my sound sleep and little dreams,

Under my pillow and on the roof and even under my feet,

And above all in my radiant eyes, and state of mind,

Which all this while I couldn’t identify.

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By Kamlesh Tripathi

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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

(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)

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

*****

 

 

POEM: SPRING

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SPRING

With the touch of spring,

It merrily rings,

Winter is over and summer is closer.

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Where trees go bald,

As the leaves fall,

And where hopes arrive in the buds to blossom,

Is when the old vanishes, and the new horizons.

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Boulevards grin and orchards smile,

Scintillating and sparkling as the new season arrives,

And that caresses my mind to beguile,

Is when I pack my woolens,

To sprinkle in the spring and drench in the summer.

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And in between the freeze and the heat,

It appears to be a moment of respite,

A moment of revive,

From the unnerving winters,

To the scorch of summers.

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And as I walk along the lush green gardens,

Under those barren trees,

I can sense how nature,

Undresses and then dresses anew,

To create another view.

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Truly, spring happens to be the reminder of times,

That sheds the past and imbibes new lines,

That discards the old and acquires the new,

To complete the natures annual review.

By Kamlesh Tripathi

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https://kamleshsujata.wordpress.com

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Share it 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

(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)

*****

 

STORY: THE CORRELATION BETWEEN KARMA AND TAPASYA

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THE CORRELATION BETWEEN KARMA AND TAPASYA

   

    It is widely believed that Hinduism is not a religion but a way of life, where one could continue to remain a Hindu even without really practicing it. But when you run through the religious texts it doesn’t say so, that simplistically. In fact, it won’t be a misnomer to say Hinduism is all about good and bad Karma—and ‘Karma’ alone is the essence of Hinduism. While Karma emanates from your mindset, tapasya (prolonged, intense and rigorous form of meditation) is the versatile vehicle of karma that takes you to your goal, and in case of any misdeeds it also acts as the penance, to pull you through tough times. Hence, one could say a ‘Tapasya’ in many ways is only a planned and focused karma.

    If you go through the Hindu texts dispassionately you would find, there were no free lunches, not even for Gods. Everyone had to fight for each specific issue where opponents could not be taken for granted just because someone commanded a superior position, breed, hierarchy or a better brand. And, competitor intelligence then, was a prevalent strategy vital for survival. While one could continue in life, being an average and inactive person. But for a Herculean milestone and phenomenal achievements one had to go in for long and arduous tapasyas where even avatars and Gods were not spared from the drill.

    When Pandavas were exiled from their kingdom, Lord God Krishna advised Arjun to obtain Divyastras (divine weapons of various Gods) as that would have helped Pandavas in the future, while combating the Kauravas. But Divyastras were not available off the shelf, even when Arjun was a very close sakha (friend) of Lord God Krishna. And, for Divyastras, the only way out was to perform rigorous tapasya to please respective Gods to bless him with their weapon, which Arjun did successfully. Specific Devatas (God) had specific powers but, no, one, Devata had all the powers vested in her or him. Devatas on many occasions were even found weaker than asuras and danavs since power and might were never a constant factor, as mentioned in the famous and historic episode of Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean). So Devatas often had to perform long tapasyas to win over asuras. And asuras too were not behind in this, as they often performed mind boggling tapasyas to obtain vardans (blessings) which they used for destructive purposes.

    Ravan the king of Lanka had done a lifetime of tapasya and was well entrenched, as a tall pundit but his tapasya was not followed by good karma and so all his knowledge went for a waste. So in Hinduism, can not one say both karma and tapasya work in tandem? Good karma with intense tapasya will yield good results, while good karma with intense tapasya followed by bad karma will only dilute the effects of tapasya. And as long as the arch of good karma continues time shall be kind to you.

    Let me also tell you another story. That will give you a flavour of how even Gods had to go in for intense tapasyas for specific events. As, no one had unlimited powers, and how at times they had to be interdependent  on each other to attain self goals by keeping aside their personal egos. And that is why it is said, it is extremely difficult to shoo the ego in us. Every person has his ups and downs in life where karma gives us the flexibility of adjusting to these ups and downs through the prowess of tapasya.

    Once when Lord Brahma (the creator of universe) was narrating a story to Rishi Narad he said,

    Dear Narad! Once when Prajapati Daksh left for Mandirachal Parwat (mountain). I too decided to perform a difficult vrat (a religious practice to carry out certain obligations with a view to achieve divine blessings for fulfillment of certain desires) and started praying to Devi Jagbamba. Wherein, I repeatedly told her in my prayers what I wanted. When Jagdamba was pleased with my vrat she gave me darshan (divine audience). I bowed in respect and said ‘pranam Devi,’ she asked. ‘Tell me Brahman! Why have you been praying so passionately, and tell me soon.’

   On hearing this, I folded my hands and politely said—‘Mother! A God named Rudra who happens to be an avatar (incarnation) of God Sadashiv has insulted me. So, I desire you take the form of Sati (Shiva’s first wife) and destroy his arrogance. Kindly take birth as Prajapati Daksh’s daughter to attract God Sadashiv towards you. Bhagwati! Barring you, there is no one else in this universe with the power to attract him erotically. And in anticipation that you’ll accede to our request, and so very excited to receive you as his daughter, Prajapati Daksh is already underway his intense tapasya in Mandirachal Parwat.

    On my saying so Bhagwati was shocked and surprised beyond words and she even looked worried. When she said—‘what is this, that you are saying Brahma ji? You want me to attract Lord God Sadashiv, and for this malicious job you’re seeking my help. Therefore, in reality whatever you’re doing is only Lord God Sadashiv’s criticism. This is a big mistake. Everyone knows I cannot do anything against God Sadashiv. Tell me, what will I gain by attracting the nirvikalp (that does not have an alternative) God Sadashiv, as I am only like his menial maid. And for the salvation of his devotees only he has taken the avatar of Rudra. Lord God Sadashiv is the undisputed emperor of all the three Lokas. He is also yours, as well as Lord Vishnu’s swami. Even in yoga, he is ahead of both of you. I am indeed astounded to hear this foolish thought coming from you, where Lord Brahma wants to captivate Lord God Sadashiv who happens to be the king of Maya (the supernatural power wielded by Gods and demons) and I am truly dumbfounded at this.’ And after saying this Devi Jagdamba went back to meditation, when she received a message from Lord God Sadashiv that without my blessings nothing happens. With my consent only Sri Brahma and Prajapati Daksh are in intense vrat and meditation. So give them the vardan and take birth in Prajapati Daksh’s family and I’ll accept you. Important: Even Lord God Sadashiv had to seek interpersonal help in a polite manner by requesting Devi Jagdamba.

   After receiving instructions from Lord God Sadashiv, Devi Bhagwati said, ‘Brahma ji—‘its fine. I will try my best, so that Lord God Shiva falls for me, and marries me as his second wife. As such there is no one in the world who can break Lord God Shiva’s concentration and attract him sensually, and even I don’t have this power and capacity. Nevertheless, I will endeavour to attract him after obtaining an avatar to fulfil your desire.’ And after this she disappeared.

    Meanwhile Prajapati Daksh was into deep and rigorous tapasya in Mandirchal Parvat. He kept meditating for three thousand years. In summers he used to meditate in the middle of fire and in severe winters he used to immerse himself in cold water, and in between tapasyas he also obtained proficiency in pranayam.  At last when Bhagwati was happy with his tapasya she gave him darshan.

    Bhagwati Shiva knew everything and so she said to Prajapati Daksh—I’m extremely happy with your tapasya and therefore you can ask for a vardan (blessings). Daksh with folded hands said—Devi! If you are happy with me then you please take birth in my family as my daughter, since Lord God Sadashiv has taken a new avatar in the name of Rudra as Brahma’s son, and there is no one to match him and therefore you need to take an avatar to marry him. Because, in this entire universe there is no other person who can do this. Brahma ji for this very important work has sent me here to Mandirachal Parvat for a long-long tapasya. Now with your attractive maya (illusions) try and attract Lord God Sadashiv and oblige the world. Jagdamba said—‘Tathastu–it will happen in this manner only. From your wife’s womb I shall take birth as your daughter, and to endear Lord God Sadashiv I will do intense tapasya.’ And after saying all this Bhagwati Shiva disappeared as she had a long to-do-list to be completed.

    Karma is the opportunity to do important things in life while tapasya the intense preperation and that alone differentiates between the Devata and the man.

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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

(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)

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

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Short story: LEGACY OF INVENTIONS

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    What might be good for you may not be good for your nation, and what might be good for your nation, may not be good for humanity. What is good for today, may not be good for tomorrow, but may be good for day after, and again a disaster for the day- day-after.

    Thinkers, scientists, innovators and inventors may create something with a noble intention. But crooked minds traversing mother earth may hijack it for sinister motives. To come to think of it, inventions leave a legacy behind. Where, some may turn out to be the serenades of life, while some the hounding baggage, difficult to carry.

    When Sir Alexander Fleming, Scottish biologist and botanist discovered Penicillin in 1928, he shared the Nobel Prize for Medicine the same year. Penicillin later developed into antibiotics used for killing microorganisms; and since then it has saved many lives and has reduced the agony of so many sick people. Fleming therefore must have left the world with pleasant memories about his invention.

    Realising what he had created—Dynamite! A high intensity explosive that could have been a bane for the society. Alfred Nobel bequeathed his fortune to institute the Nobel Prize for noble causes. Perhaps, he could visualise in his lifetime the ominous calamity that could be struck with dynamite that he had invented. And to offset that he instituted this prestigious award.

    While Eadweard Muybridge commonly referred as the ‘father of the motion picture’ must have exited the world with pleasant memories. The same can’t be said about Lieutenant General Mikhail Kalashnikov the inventor of AK-47 assault rifle, even when he invented it for his country. He was born to a peasant woman and was an Orthodox Christian. He rose to be a Russian General with sterling innovative attributes, but on hindsight his inventions appear to be for the wrong causes.

    Approximately 100 million AK-47 assault rifles were produced by 2009, and about half of them are counterfeit, manufactured at a rate of about a million a year. Kalashnikov maintained in his lifetime, that his rifle was a ‘weapon for defense and not a weapon of offence.’ Yet countless unwarranted killings must have taken place through this invention.

    Kalashnikov claimed he was always motivated by service to his nation than money. But then, what was once good for the nation could have been used by myriads of terrorists in illegal and dreadful killings.

    In the final years of his life he was saddened and anguished over his awry responsibility for the millions of deaths that his invention caused, reveals his published letter to the head of the Russian Church.

    In his various public interviews, Kalashiikov who died at the age of 94 insisted that he created the AK-47 assault rifle and dozens of other firearms as a means to protect his country, and rejected the responsibility for killings, perpetrated by militants and terrorists using his weapons.

    “My soul ache is unbearable and has one irresolvable question: if my rifle took lives, does it mean that I, Mikhail Kalashnikov, aged 93, a peasant woman’s son, an Orthodox Christian in faith, is guilty of those people’s deaths, even if they were enemies?” the leaked letter reads. He wrote the letter sometime before his death.

    Even when he was baptized as a child, he spent most of his life as an atheist, living in an officially atheist country. It was only at the age of 91 that he felt the call of faith and answered. And as he was approaching the end of his life some doubts lingered in his mind. That perhaps, through his invention he gave a chance to millions of miscreants … to massacre innocents.

    Surely, inventions do leave a legacy behind, and some legacies are insurmountable for the soul. But sadly the inventor only realizes this when its too late and when he is at the twilight of his life.

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By Kamlesh Tripathi

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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:

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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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Short story: God is omnipresent

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    Every night before going to bed Parmeshwar used to tell interesting stories to his son Krishna. One day he said. ‘Son! Never forget. God is omnipresent. He can see everything, and nothing is hidden from him.’

    Krishna like an obedient son looked to and fro and asked—‘Father! Did you say God is omnipresent, but I’m not able to see him anywhere.’

    Parmeshwar replied. ‘Well, we can’t see God. But he is all over, and can see everyone and everything that we do.’

    Krishna, thereafter, remembered what his father had told him. After a few months there was a severe famine in the village. On account of which Parmeshwar’s fields were rendered barren. One night with the intention of stealing someone else’s crop Parmeshwar set out, along with Krishna and entered another farmer’s field. Where, he instructed Krishna to sit on the branch of a tree to keep a close watch, and signal in case he found someone coming towards them.

    And, as soon as Parmeshwar sat on the ground to cut the crop Krishna called out—‘hold on father.’

    ‘But why, can you see someone coming?’

    Krishna replied—‘yes, someone is watching us.’

    Parmeshwar left the field and came out to see who was watching. He looked around but found no one there. He then asked—‘where, and who is watching us?’

    Krishna said—‘father you only had said. God is present everywhere and watches everyone’s deeds very closely. Then why will he not watch you cutting someone else’s crop?’ Parmeshwar upon hearing his son felt ashamed. He dropped the idea of stealing and returned home.

    Moral of the story: While stealing anything in life, always remember, the God within is watching you.

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Posted by Kamlesh Tripathi

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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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SHORT STORY: REAL VICTORY

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    Once there lived an arrogant farmer in a village. His name was Sher Singh. He was as dreadful as a tiger. Even for small reasons he used to pick up big fights. He never spoke to the people of the village in a polite manner. And he never visited anyone. Nor did he wish anyone, he came across on the way. The villagers also found him arrogant and avoided speaking to him.

    In the same village. One day a farmer by the name of Dayaram came and settled from a distant location. As compared to Sher Singh he was extremely simple and helpful. He spoke to everyone in a very polite manner. And he always tried to help the villagers. Soon he became very popular and every villager started respecting him and also started seeking advice from him.

    One day few villagers thought of giving Dayaram some good advise—‘Brother Dayaram! Never ever visit Sher Singh at his house. And as far as possible. Try and stay away from him as he is a big fighter.’

    Dayaram laughed and said—‘If Sher Singh tries to fight with me I will kill him.’

    Villagers laughed at this. They knew Dayaram was very kind. Forget killing. He wouldn’t even abuse him. But some miscreant went and sneaked about Dayaram’s comment to Sher Singh. Sher Singh on hearing this got very angry. And, he started looking for opportunities. To pick up fights with Dayaram. One day he left his bullocks in Dayaram’s fields. They grazed his crop and even destroyed it. But Dayaram quietly drove them out of his fields.

    Another day. Sher Singh changed the direction of the drains that carried water to Dayaram’s fields. With the result water started flowing in the wrong direction. Leaving his fields dry. But Dayaram avaoided confrontation. So he quietly set the drain right. In this manner Sher Singh kept harming Dayaram. But Dayaram with his cool nature did not give him an opportunity to pick up a fight.

    One day a relative of Dayaram sent him some Kharboozaas (melons). As a good gesture he decided to distribute them in the village. He sent one to each farmer. But Sher Singh refused to accept it. He sent it back saying. ‘I’m not a beggar. I don’t accept alms from anyone.’

    During monsoon, one day. When Sher Singh was returning home from the market in his bullock-cart, loaded with grains. On the way it got stuck in the mire. Near a nullah (watercourse). Where, his feeble bullocks were unable to pull the cart out of it. When the news reached the village everyone happily thought—Since Sher Singh is a crook. Let him spend the night by the side of the nullah alone.

    But Dayaram, with his robust bullocks. Immediately left for the nullah. To help Sher Singh. People tried to stop him when they said—‘Dayaram! Sher Singh has troubled you quite a lot in the past. And you often used to say. If he fights with you. You will kill him. Then why are you going to help him today?’

    Dayaram replied—‘Today, I’ll definitely kill him. And you all will be able to see that by morning.’ After this he left.

    When Sher Singh saw Dayaram coming along with his robust bullocks to help him. He arrogantly yelled—‘Please go back. I don’t require your help.’

    But Dayaram didn’t slow down. He continued walking towards him in the same pace and said—‘Abuse me if you feel so. Beat me if you wish to. But right now you are in trouble. Your cart is stuck and it’s getting dark. So, I just can’t agree to what you say now. And I have to help you.’

    Dayaram, quickly released Sher Singh’s bullocks from the harness and installed his own. Thereafter, his robust bullocks pulled the cart out of the mire. Sher Singh, then drove his bullock-cart home. He realized the goodness of Dayaram and politely said to him—‘Dayaram you killed me with your kindness. Now I am no more that arrogant Sher Singh.’ Thereafter, Sher Singh started relating with everyone in the village with extreme love, kindness and humbleness.

Moral of the story: To win over evil with goodness is the real victory of life. Dayaram, was able to achieve that.

*****

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 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)

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

*****