Fearless voices,
celebrating colors of diversity,
unflinching unity,
One nation,
under the rainbow of Republic,
crushing caste and religion,
to coalescence into a single voice,
seamless humans,
spirit of togetherness,
prejudice has no name or reason to be,
thousands languages,
rich and timeless heritage,
teaching love in all its forms,
a pledge for national integration,
cornuscopia of faces,
we have limitless,
but one,
a powerful force,
no one dare to break,
being Indian,
is an emotion,
rooted and anchored,
a lifetime bond,
speaking the language of tolerance,
freedom is our pride.
"All persons are equally entitled to freedom of conscience and the right to freely profess, practice, and propagate religion subject to public order, morality and health."
-Article 25, Indian Constitution
The silence of the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi was appalling and the silent Hindu majority of Hindu could be termed as necrotic on the spate of lynching and beef killing in modern India. Tremulous voices were heard on social media that consisted of feeble voice sandwiched between over aggressive extremists condoning such attacks that gave a false sense of entitlement or belief on one hand and on the other hand, citizens irrespective of religious belief coming together to condemn attacks on Muslims, traders, and consumers of meat. The dichotomy lies in the fact that beef is not religious centric.
Image credit: Google/India.com
It reached a point of saturation when reasonable citizens, irrespective of their religious identities, decided to put an end to the break-down of law after 16-year-old Junaid was assaulted and dealt with death in a train on the eve of Eid. It was the time for Indians cutting across community and caste lines to say No to the heinous killing in the name of the Gau Mata.
Since the coming to power of the BJP, the law of the jungle reigned supreme with this idiotic and dim wit Gau Rakshak running loose to brutally assault citizens. We have one Mohammad Akhlaq who was brutally murdered in Dadri, UP for allegedly keeping beef that turned out to be goat meat. It gave us the impression that the voice of reason has lost its might and we failed to recognize the secular India, which seems to loom away by the day and disappearing like dust in the distant past.
The time for action is now for citizens to engage and say No to such killings in the name of religion. A movement was born as an alternate power to protest in the right direction, #notinmyname. It bears resemblance and was strikingly similar to the Nirbhaya movement where women fearlessly trudged in the open and boldly faced police brutality. It didn't take long to mount pressure on the Government.
Today, PM Modi condemned such attacks in the name of religion and claimed that such killing and intolerant behavior shall not be tolerated. For the first, I saw the PM who somehow got lost in globe-trotting showed that he means business and that he is the Pradhan Sewak for everyone.
He spoke like a strong statesman and sent a strong message to the warmongerers. I recognized my PM speaking and shall give credit where it is due. It was needed on his part at a time when so many of us were lingering on the verge of insanity and lives were falling.We helplessly saw our country fading into oblivion, our secular values of respecting faiths crumbling and contrarian views bearing the brunt of intolerance. It is the top most priority to instill the fear of law in those terrorists and murderers.
The worse thing is that those extremists are giving a bad name to Hinduism and rewriting the Hindu scripture to make it the book of violence. It's extremely dangerous considering that Hinduism as a way of life has always celebrated peace, stability, tolerance, and growth of humans to cohabit together as enshrined in the Indian constitution and is being misinterpreted by a bunch of extreme voices. Today, Islam is facing the same issue where few bad and rotten apples are spoiling a religion and its adherents.
The power lies with the people to thrust the Government into action to safeguard and protect rights of both the majority and minority. The mass protests #notinmyname gathered steam and showed the power of an enraged nation coming together in mounting pressure on the political power. It reached the ears of the state which propelled Shri Narendra Modi into action. It was no asunder script where voices were lost. There is the government, the media as the fourth estate and like someone rightly said, the power lies with the people to say no to the forces of terror. India is the biggest democracy on earth which is facing testing times. It was a confrontation with the power of the day but with a legitimate reason. India cannot afford to remain silent when innocents are slithered to death on account of their religious beliefs with demented fools hijacking the country.
Non-peaceful method is one way to confront the forces of evil and one shouldn't be cowed down by the veiled threat of violence raging its might to silence voices. The demented goons hiding behind a religion and assaulting women cannot be my religion. I am born a Hindu. You don't do it in my name. My religion never believed or advocated violence and for instance, the Vedas is a gem that has always preached peaceful living, divinity, and spirituality. Till now, this mob culture gave an impression that their action received a legitimate nod from the Government of the day and the PM where they fearlessly went on a killing spree. Truth is they lack spine on the face of apathy where the state apparatus failed till now to protect the victims. Rise my countrymen and women against such heteronormativity!
There is a perception that the PM hands are fettered by the dangerous forces of Hindutva agenda and it’s extremists agents in the form of RSS and its ilk, VHP, Ram Sena or Bajrang Dal. Today, the PM affirmed his might in holding the reins of the country and in a way, thwarted occult forces of Hindutva to overcome this ‘perception’.For the first time, I saw the PM, the one whom citizens want to see so that the rule of law triumphs above everything. It is the voice of reason and its citizens that make a nation the shining beacon of democracy.
However, the irony lies in the fact that long after the PM broke his deafened silence, a meat trader was beaten to death and his vehicle perished in flame set by ruffians and mob made of more than 100 people. It's unacceptable in today's India. The supporters of the Government and of this flawed ideology are as guilty as the murderers. We cannot condone such acts. The perpetrators should be brought to the book. Time for the PM's strong words to translate into action. Let the voice of reason rise against such killings and the movement of citizens as a watchdog should never stop till democracy gets back its sheen and voice of sanity so that we become a model to the world.
"King Piyadasi (Ashoka) dear to the Gods, honours all sects, the ascetics (hermits) or those who dwell at home, he honours them with charity and in other ways. But the King, dear to the Gods, attributes less importance to this charity and these honours than to the vow of seeing the reign of virtues, which constitutes the essential part of them. For all these virtues there is a common source, modesty of speech. That is to say, One must not exalt one’s creed discrediting all others, nor must one degrade these others Without legitimate reasons. One must, on the contrary, render to other creeds the honour befitting them.”
-Plural India in Ashoka's inscription of 3rd century BC
Jai Hind
I abide by the Constitution of India, respect of law, plurality and tolerant values
It's the last day in April. It's been drizzling and the temperature has cooled down which confines me to sit at home, reading stuff and attempting a personal post on this space. The love story with books continue unabated and I just got myself Ritu Lalit's His Father's Mistress and JK Rowling's third outing, 'Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. I am back with Potter series after a couple of years and love revisiting HP that meant so much to my generation.
I didn't take part in the April A to Z challenge after three consecutive outings and it's time to pull the plugs. I had my fair share and it becomes increasingly difficult to write for every single day of my life. I am happy that I don't feel the pressure which can drain the energy. One should write when the heart is in and not force oneself. These days, meditation and yoga are very helpful to curb the depression. I can say that things are improving when I look back to the past three years where I didn't have control over my life and the mind embroiled into unwanted thoughts. I am learning to be more aware in the Power of Now that helps one to live in the moment.
It brings me to the thought that I've been mulling over for several years, shifting back to India. The only hitch is the expensive house rent in cities like Mumbai and Pune which is holding me back. It got me thinking how time is flying and not making the most of life signifies that one is losing especially when the clock doesn't stop to suit one's own fancy or plans. Sometimes, I get tired of this self-reasoning or others reminding me that things will happen on its own. No. It doesn't. One must push things and the self to the edge. As I read about the life of thespian actor Vinod Khanna who passed away last week, his colleague and friend Kabir Bedi told how he left glamor and successful stint to embrace spirituality in US. The time he decided to come back to India, he had no money and survived in a humble room. Isn't it inspiring? God bless his soul. A true legend that lives forever in our hearts like his iconic screen name Amar from Amar Akbar Anthony.
In life, we should be ready to pursue happiness and make adjustment to survive on the bare minimal to adapt to our circumstances. That how we thrive and succeed. When I read about such things, I am like, why not get back to India since for me it equates happiness. I need to wire my brain on accepting to compromise on luxury, struggle and expect the unexpected. It can be a long time being away for 8 years and time to weigh my options, either Mumbai or Pune. The hitch in Mumbai is the expensive lifestyle but Pune wouldn't be a bad deal to start all over again. As it is, Pune will always be home to me. I am in my mid-30s and feel that time is running. I need to catch the ball, swing and throw it on life.
There are so many things running in my head which are no less than the stormy river. The good news is that this week I have been able to work on my novel and wrote thrice a week which is a positive sign. I have already chucked out half draft to restart all over again since the book has dragged for more than three years. Guess, it's better to start again with the love story set in Mumbai that I am striving to pen. The perk of being a stay-at-home with a decent earning every month helps me to work on the book and come May, I shall flesh the stuffs with specific days to write the novel, reading, and the blog. As it is, it's one of my pet peeves to do so many things in a day which can be so counter-productive where one end up not doing anything worthwhile.
Going into self-analysis mode has been one of my biggest weakness that robs me of my sleep. This week I haven't been doing so well where I ended up staying awake and tossing on the bed throughout the night. There were frustrating moments where some people made some unwanted comments and I so wanted to put them in the place where they belong. Over-thinking doesn't work for my sanity and the frustration gnaws my sense of being. It compelled me to take some sleeping pills and last night, it did wonder to me when I slept till noon. Whatta perfect way to spend the Sunday! The only hitch is that I missed watching Bahubali-The Conclusion.
Till then, see you soon and have a happy Sunday. I am gearing up for this extended holiday as Maharashtra Day being celebrated tomorrow and the country I am based, it's also May Day. Happy Maharashtra Day.
I am a Liebster Awardee on this blog...first time, first time. It made me feel on top of the world when Indian Drama Queen, our own Dee Dee not Didi, nominated me with Liebster Award. You can check her out on Indian Drama Queen Did I say that? Oops!! Bad Boy! I mean check her blog.
Here, we go with the format for accepting Liebster Award.
Liebster Blog Award is all about connecting and forging the bond with blog fellas. Peer nominated where we send some love to our favorites and help grow our network.
Indian Drama Queen goes by the name Dee Dee is fun to read and I guarantee that you won't leave her space without getting your dose of blogotainment (I just coined a term for entertainment on blog for Dee Dee).
Liebster Interview with Dee Dee
1. What is the best thing that has happened to you?
Studying at Pune's most prestigious Fergusson College and living in the city. Days of bliss, falling in love and discover life. Like cherry on the cake.
2. What is that one thing or incident in life that you regret?
No Regret but we only make life experiences, good or bad. Well!! Try to live up by the Philosophy, Zindagi Badi honi chahiye lambi nahin, Babu Moshai from Anand.
3. If there is one person in this world you would get to say Sorry, who would it be and why?
Already told it to a friend and love interest from college. I plucked the courage after a decade and told it to her on Facebook. She's at her sweetest best. I am relieved and it was hanging on my head like a sword.
4. What is your most searched word or phrase on Google?
Ha! Do you remember whom you made love to yesterday? Kidding! There are so many things I google on net and honestly can't remember. Tanmay Bhat! Nah!! May be Arnab Goswami. For sure, some new words related to writing. Yeah! I love doing that, always in quest of fancy vocabulary to impress people.
5. Who is the last "Received call" on your mobile phone (Eg: carpenter, dad, a friend)? I call myself to chat for nobody ever call me except to cancel a meeting or ask for their borrowed money that I assumed was given for free.
6. What is the wallpaper on your mobile phone (Eg. Nature, my family, my pet)?
Some random, colorful mountainous and grass view. I have lost the art of being smart with the phone.
7. If ever, you get an all paid trip anywhere in this world, where would you go?
Ibizza for some hot and sensual romance, dare and bare.
8. What is the worst pick-up line used on you?
I am all yours!!
9. What is Happiness for you?
Happiness means freedom and following one's heart without constraints. Loving unconditionally, be the rebel forever and don't take a job as a constraint.
10. One advice you would give your teen self?
Explore life fearlessly, chuck out what-ifs, experiment everything be it sex, falling in love and don't be scared to fall down. Learn a new musical instrument or language. Explore life. Pack your bag, see the world, sleep at railway station with hardly any cash. Never go with the crowd. Be a godamn rebel.
11. If there was a life after death, what would you want to be reborn as?
May be a film actor or a writer. Yes! To be born as a film actor and book writer. It works for me. Tell you a secret, I wanna be famous where Paparrazi would train their shots on me.
Liebster Blog Award rules
Write a blogpost about your nomination, displaying an image of the award.
Thank the person who nominated you and include a link to their blog.
Answer the 11 questions the person who nominated you asked you in his/her blogpost.
Nominate 5-11 other starting bloggers who you think deserve this award, and come up with 11 questions of your own for them to answer.
India celebrated its 69th Independence Day on August 15, Saturday. Our freedom is a rich legacy left behind by our fore parents where they fought for our freedom and it's something we need to uphold and constantly strive for. Freedom is something we should never take for granted and always strive to uphold when things goes wrong. It's our identity as Indians. Listen to what our blogger and FB friends have to say.
Image credit: Google India.
Freedom means:
Garima Shrivastava Nag
Freedom to me is to be able to think, express, move, work & live freely. Freedom means that my action is not dictated by anyone, person or system. I'm free to make my life choices as long as I don't step on anyone's space. Freedom is to live without fear & bondage. Freedom is much than just being physically. Mental freedom scores much higher. A free mind worth more than just a free body.
Surbhi Thukral:
Freedom is the empowerment to create a society conducive to social welfare. It is the liberty to raise your voice against wrong without fear.
Megha Chauhan:
Freedom to me is about making free and independent choices, about leading a fearless life with complete liberty and about spreading humanism.
Maniparna Sengupta:
I think independence is a state of mind, a way to appreciate the celebration called life. Liberation from all the shackles that produces hatred toward human kind. Independence means to live in one's own terms and letting others to do the same.
Independence Day is also the time for us to seek joy and happiness by showing our Indian-ness being decked in the colors of the tricolor. My friend, Ananya Kiran (ananyatales.com), tells you how to make our Independence Day special and hope the video helps you for the next Republic Day in January and next August 15 when we turn 70.
Happy Independence Day and may we be free from the shackles of society in our thoughts and strive for our freedom. I am penning a short story, imaginative but very much a reality among so many of us, embedded in our thoughts about India. Hope you like it.
India
It's a sunny Saturday morning at Red Fort when the Indian tricolor fluttered high in the sky and mammoth crowd proudly sang, Jana Gana Mana, and bowed to Mother India. It was difficult to wriggle one's way out after the Prime Minister's convoy's left the venue.
Two young man finally made the way out, sweating profusely and ordered cutting chai at the tapdi and sharing a cigarette. He seemed very irritated looking at the crowd dispersing while his companion looked with pride at the number of Indians, braving the heat to stand at Red Fort.
"What's there to be proud, watching the national flag unfurl?", Kuch nahin hoga was fuming.
Desh badlega looked at him and couldn't believe what his best friend whom he has known since childhood just blurted out
The pessimist lets out, "I am telling you. Nothing will change in this country. We are proud for a day and then forget about every thing. You name it, you get it, corruption, morons breaking traffic signals, poverty, dirt, homelessness, jumping the queues, no respect for women and elders, rape. The list is endless. Nothing is right in this country and nothing will ever change."
Desh badlega decided to teach his friend a lesson and will not let him win the argument today, not on Independence Day. He didn't flinch, "Obviously, with pessimists like you who keep harping and criticizing the country and will not make the slightest effort to be the change. You never do anything to be the change. It's the sad reality of cynics today."
Kuch Nahin Hoga was taken aback, "What are you talking about? If I start doing all these, what has Modi, Rahul or Kejriwal been elected for?"
Desh Badlega said, "This is the problem. If everyone start thinking like that, nothing will happen. Keep criticizing the effort of people who are trying to make small changes in society despite the fact that things are wrong. Look at yourself: You throw wrappers on the street, you look with disdain at the homeless child yet you will never buy a banana or pack of milk for the innocent life. I've seen you the last time when those bastards were teasing a girl. You laughed and walked as if nothing happened."
Kuch nahin hoga didn't know what to say. "Buddy, chill! There is always a risk of cops getting me into trouble at the police station or those guys taking a revenge against me. What would you do?"
Desh Badlega said, "Well! I called the cops and alerted some people on the streets. The thugs were arrested. I believe that small things that can make a difference. I don't need to be in politics to make small changes happen. I teach homeless children because empowerment and education is the only way for progress and a better India. When someone throws a wrapper on the street, I pick it up and put in the bin. I volunteer with some people to clean not just the backyard but the colony where I stay. I blog against injustice. As a citizen. it's not just my right but duty to free India from such shackles of evil forces.I contribute in signing petitions and share stuffs to create awareness, unlike some cynics who keep criticizing. I value what our ancestors have given to the nation. I value my country."
It was like a blow to Kuch Nahin Hoga who was at a loss of words and blurted, "To each its own." These words dug a nail to the coffin words, "Well! Don't complain then," Desh Badlega said and patted his back, "Let's go now and appreciate our freedom that we enjoying today."
This post P for Pen Love is written on Day 16 as part of Blogging from A to Z Challenge (April 2015). Click here to know more:
http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/
She: Do you think we will ever meet in life? It's been three years that we are pen friends. I wonder whether the term 'Pen love' exist!
He: It's a beautiful relationship we have....
SHE: I agree...two souls connecting with each other. The pen is a mighty sword yet a faithful lover. Just imagine we have never seen each other.
HE: How long my letters takes to reach you?
SHE: I dunno! How does it matter? As long as our souls cross the seas and oceans to reach each other.
HE: Don't you think that we should meet this year? It's been three years.
SHE: Patience, my love. Everything will fall in place. One thing I want to be frank, stop sending me super expensive gifts and save the money for rainy days. I am a simple girl who comes from a super rich family who never miss an occasion to show how much money they have. I travel by expensive cars but hate it. I love the freedom of riding a bike, admiring the scenery, dancing in the rain and playing with street children. I am dying to move away from my show-off family in Lahore, free from inquisitive relatives who swears by the perfume of wealth. How I hate it!
SHE: Next year, I am moving to US for my Masters in performing arts and am so excited and glad that I won't come back home to have my marriage fixed with an idiot.
HE: So, you plan to forget me?
SHE: You mad!! How can I? I love you. We should not raise doubts. I am sure you can try and plan it out to meet me in US next year.
HE: Do you think they will agree to our love? I am a Hindu in India and you are a Muslim Pakistani.
SHE: Why are you so much bothered in breaking your neck to convince them? They will never-both my parents and yours-agree. For them, religion and ego is everything. They don't know the power of love. Hatred will beget hatred. It's our lives and we didn't seek their permission to fall in love.
SHE: Listen! Let's set a date to speak to each other on phone. Let's make it special.
HE: Your birthday, on June 1?
SHE: Nah! boring. Birthdays are cliche.
HE: Wait, August 14, your Independence Day or on August 15, my Independence day.
SHE: It's not a neutral date. It's too heavy patriotism, love and then war, my country better than yours...bla bla! How I hate this whole India vs Pakistan thing.
Let's close our eyes and think for 30 seconds. Both He and She zeroed on June 14 that they said at the same time. It was the morning when HE waited for her call at the PCO in the small village in Punjab, at his Dad's shop. It was 7 a.m. He waited with bated breath. The phone rang and he said, 'Hello', voice stammered and choked with emotions. "Hi," she almost shouted loud enough for him to hear. I love you,"
He heard the most beautiful voice of love, the tone verged between emotions of crying and unlimited happiness. He shouted back, "I love you, too. Nothing can separate our pure and true love." Their love became their only prayer since that day where they stopped believing in Gods they were taught to worship.
They have two children, a boy and a girl, well settled in New York. Yes! Their parents has accepted their love and met on neutral terrain, often sharing a drink or two over the heated India-Pakistan cricket match. Politics, religion and terrorism are never discussed on the dining table.
I know what you are thinking about your India visit, gushing at Lal Qila and India Gate. You must be biting your nails and curse yourself, wishing that you could have learned dancing to match steps with a Malaika Arora Khan type figure. Heard last last visit, young chillars' gave you a run for your money.
Aha! Speaking of money. Did you brought a gunny sack of money, doling out kindness to India!!!! I know, there is nothing called a free meal in the world, certainly with the likes of Uncle Sam. It's a deal with Modi-Ji, your new chaddi Buddy aur Langotya Yaar. Yeh Dosti Hum Nahin Todenga. Barack (Sirr!!!) I am talking bout the nuke deal aur Chai pe Charcha with Narendra, the renewed friendship. See!! Modi-ji called you by the first name that I thought for a while that you were twins, separated at birth. You know the story, right! Pardon my indulgence, for addressing you as Barack, adding a Sir. Protocol held. Two brothers separated by the railway track to find each other in the anti-climax. You fight, deny him visa and then kiss and make up. After all, Bade bade deshon mein, Aise choti choti Baatein Hoti Rehte Hain, Senorita. Right, Barack (Sir). You've melted the heart of our desi, Raj. Shah Rukh Khan is like that only, he woos hearts in true King Khan Size.
Image credit: Google
Confused over lost brothers tale. Koi Baat Nahin! You can rent out our 70s Hindi movies DvD's, Lamboo-ji double roles will do the trick for you. You must be missing India, big time, Barack (Sirrrr!!!!) I know, I know. In India, we do Mehmaan Nawaazi perfectly. Barack Devo Bhava. See, you are our new God, adding you to the zillion Gods we worship. One more!! No tension, Barack Sirjee. Our country love everything AmriCan, the politicians, goodies, accents and green cards. Who doesn't want them all in the bag of goodies. Of course, your dollars to pay for our king-sized burgers and Pizzas.
You are a true blue Amreecan, Barack Yes We Can!!!. Before saying Alvida to us, you didn't forget to play a pound fist by gently chiding India over Ghar Waapsi campaign. A respect for all religions and ethnicity is what we need. Sad na that it's always a foreigner who will teach us the basics. A true Ghar Waapsi on your part. Like they say, Haas Haas ke Majaa Lete hain.
Speaking of Dosti and new found Yaarana, Barack (Sir!!) and your new found Kabbadi dost, our dear PM, Narendra Modi must be in for a sequel. See! You know our KJO, Karan Johar who doesn't have anything to do right now. What!! You didn't have Koffee with Karan or met him to discuss his fixation with K....Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Kabhie Alvida Na Kehna, Kabhie Khushi Kabhie Gham. See, the poor guy is outta work. He sit through All India Bakchod to roast celebs. Sad that KJO couldn't roast you. Chale Saath Saath with Modi-ji for climate change. I'm telling you it's heating up: How about giving fodder to the unemployed Karan of Dharma Productions for a new version of Bromance between you and Modi-Ji.
I am just thinking of a third version of Dostana, starring Narendra Modi and his brother Barack. Worry not, KJO will do all the scripting and your penchant for your fashion icon, NAMO. After all, you can give him some work to do, poor boy, roaming aimlessly, on the street of Mumbai doing the Salsa, roasting celebs.
You wanna an anti-climax, no problem!! Our neighbor is just up our arses, like you pronounce in Amreeka. KJO will make them the villain. Remember your goodies worth million for guns to combat terrorism. Your pact with India for payback. How cool an idea?
As it is, Pakistan is already fuming on your visit, Barack Sirr!!! India UN Security council Permanent seat, you are already gunning for your new found dostana with Indian PM.Bechara Pakistan Government is fuming over our growing clout in the region, courtesy Barack (Sir!!) bada Dil aur Dosti. What a 500-crores story idea, this would be, Barack Sir!!!! New found love, bromance and a common enemy over Nuke deal and UN permanent seat. I tell you, a blockbuster from Neta to Abhineta.
Toh Baat Pahki Samaj le over Bromance, N-Deal and dollars!!! Did you click the selfie with your Yaar to show the daughters? Dekh Betiyon Dekh...my selfie with your new found uncle. Do they refer to Namo Chachu at the White House?
Dear Barack (Sir!!!!!) Till we meet again in Dilli for some Dilwallahs moments, Namaskar Pyar Bhara Namaskar.
Another crime and sexual violence against women reminds us of the Black December we witnessed two years back after the heinous crime that shook our world. We didn't want another Nirbhaya to happen. A grim reality in India, from plush cities to obscure villages. that doesn't seem to stop. I highly oppose the label of Delhi as Rape Capital which is a cliche that will dilute the cause of fighting against rape.
The irony of the situation is that Uber cab, connected to smart phone applications was judged safe for a woman in a city and the country as a whole, that took a beating as a result of heinous crimes such as rape committed against women. It's a real tragedy when we see how the male aggression is hitting such a high octane. When politicians 'indirectly'condone such patriarchal male assault with catch-phrase like, 'Ladke hain Galati Ho Jati Hai,' one might argue where we have gone wrong. The woman, who is a victim in most of the cases, is blamed for wearing short skirts or showing her legs when those bastards shamelessly commit crime without showing the slightest remorse.
When both men and 'some'women in society blame a girl and fail to educate their sons on how to respect someone, it makes me wonder what shit we teach our boys? It's perfectly cool and normal to show their masculinity and a woman saying No to their advances is a personal insult or injury, for that matter. Tell me, how the girl going for a walk on the street will feel safe when an asshole makes sick comment on her body or she is being groped in the train? For how long, should she remain silent just because he is a man, no matter how sick this behavior is? How many of us will come in defense of a girl protesting against dirty looks? Such things make me very pessimist on our apathy which sucks?
We've debated at length on so-called reform in our laws that deal in a very lenient manner on matters pertaining to verbal, sexual assault and rape. Piece-meal legislation just doesn't help to curb the crime. Authorities need to come up with strict laws dealing the strict punishments that serve as a deterrent to such crimes. Shaming the criminals by plastering their pictures all over the place is one way to create awareness by letting the public know that they are the bad guys. I also believe in chemical castration that will go a long way to serve as a reminder.
Anyways! The objective of this post is not to tell the Indian Government or authorities across the globe what should be done to prevent such crimes. It's high time we educate our sons on how to behave with a woman and treat her as equal. It's not just about boosting your stupid male ego, adding fuel to the false ego that you have the right to physically harm someone because of ascribed features acquired at birth. For once, it sends shiver down my spine as a man if someone would inside an iron rod inside me or some penis will forcefully enter me much against my wish. How would I feel as man? It is important that we, men, think in those terms to try understand the trauma a women, victim of rape, is going through.
We point accusatory fingers at women with this bullshit of staying late, whether at work or hanging out somewhere during the night, dressing from top-to-toe or being accompanied by a male during the course of duty to restrict women freedom. Agree, women are easy targets by perverts! But, let's cast aside this moral sermon which is utter rubbish so that we don't lose track of the real debate or fight against the crime.
As far as improvement is concerned in terms of safety for women, I just hope that I don't lose the fading hope. One wonder whether we should take the law in our hands since protests are not really happening to bring change.
Our dear, Barack Obama, must be thanking his stars! After the American administration lost the visa stamp for years and finally recovering it post May this year, Obama 'Yes! We Can! must be borrowing a cue from India how to get the US Congress win the next election. A plausible scenario! You bet!
Image downloaded on Google India
At a time when the US economy is in the lurch, Modi-nomics promises to save Yankees from the looming disaster. It's like Amitabh Bachchan telling the US immigration officer in English Vinglish, 'I am here to spend some dollars to grow the US economy. You don't want it!"
A lil' bit on Gyaan on the American soil on the great American Dream! Soon, Obama will start singing, 'Ab ache Din Ayega America Mein, brushing up his Hindi. Or, will he say, 'Ab ke Baar Modi Sarkar. See, Modi is going truly global as New York is dazzled to his charm, singing 'NaMo, NaMo'. Madison Square will enter the Guiness World Book Record as NaMo stood tall, witnessing the hero of the day, delivering his monologue. Now, who says, India can never make it to the Oscar? Of course, we can. Yes, We Can. Modi has already made it to the Oscar as India creates history in a non-film award for acting.
Pic credit: PMO India (@PMOIndia) | Twitter
Now, can our NRIs left behind as they stormed the Madison Square to get some incentive from Modi, proudly displaying their American-Indian flags to the great delight of TV crew. What a proud moment for them, one is tempted to ask. After all, they have just been credited as the crew who made the NaMo film, 'An Ache Din Aa Hee Gaye' a roaring success. Now, most of them must be booking their ticket to reach Mars at Rs 7 per km, cheaper than rickshaw rate in Gujarat at Rs 10 per km. What say? Cheaper than Tomato and Mc Donald burger. They better re-settle in Mars and leave behind their American dream. They can sell hot dogs on planet Mars cheaper and make a killing. If they are not satisfied, it's time to come back to Desh....Mera Bharat Mahaan..see India needs them as the savior. Why would they not come back? Arnab must be racking his brain. After all, India wants to know!
Our dear NRI shouting Inquilaab must be leaving Barack Obama in a state of confusion on the next revolution. Is it for him or the president-in-waiting Hillary Clinton? After all, NRI has an uphill task: send American tourists to India and freebies, no visa on arrival. Wait, I got a better option. What if...we do some barter! Let's all of us shift to US and let our American friends make India their home. That way, we can take upon ourselves to save their economy, the spend thrift that we are. Chalo Amreeka, Saathiyon! Make New York, Madison Square our home and start tearing each other's off in Obama's land. See, we can vote for Obama's part, US Congress, and keep them in Government for another five years.
Image Credit: Google India
We shall sing, 'Pseudo-secularism.' No! We shall be boys and girls, better than our ABDC counterparts. Nopes, we will not settle in US to learn ABDC the wrong way..it's American Born Desi Confused. We shall drink our Coca Cola to heavenly bliss. We shall sing and dance, 'Jeeo Kurta Phar ke', tearing the shirt of journalists who question us on why we support Modi. We will be the new Modi Bhakts assaulting not just Rajdeep Sardesai but Americans journalists telling us to behave ourselves. After all, we are the torch bearers of 'silly' Hindutvaa and who has the balls to question us!
We, Indians, are good in doing jhol. No prize for guessing here! We shall earn in dollar, buy in rupee and make our currency the new dollar, selling our prized assets, our rupee to dollar babus to make a killing on the market. Better than that, our Indian rupee will replace the Dollar groom and bahus of the world. Modi-nomics has just altered market dynamics in US and high time for MNCs to pack their bags and settle in India.
After all, who needs motivational Gurus like Shiv Khera, Robin Sharma when we have apna desi Prime Minister, Narendra Modi telling us one thing or two about, determination and how to make things work out for us? Perhaps, our own Congress man, Mani Shankar Aiyyar must book his air ticket to New York city and start a tea stall, 'Special Modi Chai.'
I am feeling bored today till I started playing the game of Love Jihad. I throw the dice to entrap someone, an invisible victim. The game of entrapment, zeroing on my catch, some innocent girl, flirt with her, promise her love and marriage, then break her heart. Amen!
That makes for the script of 100 crores blockbuster, scripted by the likes of RSS and the great Yogi Adityanath as the savior in the breath-taking climax. Our new-age superman has taken upon himself to save the lives of million innocent girls in the magnum-opus 'Love Jihad.' A script tailor made for success: Man in beard zooming past on the motorcycle as the Hindu girl, clad in Salwar Kameez, red bangles and red Bhindi, hop on in the name of love. You know the rest! If you don't, Hindu outfits will tell you the story coz they will narrate the concocted soup of threat to spill down your throat.
See, the Hindu religion is in danger na coz of Loove Jihad hell bent in destroying man kind. What a formula for success! This will put the likes of Karan Johar and Rohit Shetty to shame. In this RSS Kahani, there is no twist coz you see vultures are hell bent to make our girls fall in love with them and force them to convert. Romeo Jihad! Beware of Love Jihad! Why? Baby! Proponents of Hinditva agenda are telling and you must listen to them. It's their script, their movie. Have you bought the tickets? Totally free of cost. Unplugged propaganda of fear. Now, they are turning into vigilante in our University campuses coz the world, oops sorry!, their religion is in danger of being possessed by Love Jihad. I tell you, Valentine celebration is against our culture and is such a westernized concept. Now, see how Love Jihad is making a comeback to force things down the throat of our girls and they wanna rope us after brain-washing our heads. You see! The perfect script of 100 crores votes!
Have you said secularism? What is that! According to them, there is only Hindutva which is the perfect package, designed to delete secularism and the fabric of the Indian constitution. Didn't someone said that everyone is a Hindu in India? Now, why are you scoffing at them? You find it funny, na. Must be! Beware, they don't find it funny coz we belong to the land of Lord Rama, declaring war on Love Jihad, no chicken and Beef! We are so pure that Kamasutra exist only in our dirty minds. We, young people, are so polluted coz we believe in love and making friends with people, irrespective of their ethnic or religious belonging. We are the ignorant youth of India who should be taught the conspiracy of Love-Jihad which is destroying our religion and our girls. If we fail to adhere to their logic, we should be beaten up every Valentine Day coz we are wiping our religion and not being able to save our girls. Beti Bahu Bachao! Declare war on love Jihad!
See, we are only capable of making love and not war. But, who will tell them this? They don't want to see us united like Sooraj Bharjatya's Hum Saath Saath Hai! After all, it's a question of their pro-Hindutva sick agenda that sucks like rotten tomato. Suddenly, I am wondering how they would call Hindu boys falling in love with Muslim girls! The boys must be innocent that the Muslim girls are putting a Jaal-The Trap, to ensnare the poor boys, na! It's Pyar Pyar Pyar vs Maar Maar Maar, the RSS way! A new script, changed to suit their 'religious' sensibility of hatred. Wait! Howz about forming an outfit against hatred to destroy their proxy war?
We shall walk the tight rope to spread love and only love minus Jihad. Our Jihad will be filled with feeling will of love and we shall them some flowers and 'Get Well Soon' card the Munna way. It shall be our war against the force of terror and our Love Jihad against violence, brain-washing and hatred. Till then, let me enjoy my chicken Briyani made with love and feast on secular food.
Today, India celebrates its 65th anniversary and its 66th Independence Day. One night, August 15, 1947 we were granted freedom from the shackles of the British rule. We were oppressed by the British power and as we set to attain an Economic Growth of 7 per cent in 2012, it seems that we are set to become of the mightiest economic power in the world.
Men and Women laid their lives and shed blood that the present generation and future generation can breathe free and that freedom of speech is ensured. Today, there are several challenges that India faces and first and foremost is to combat corruption and ensure that no poor man or women is discriminated against. Secondly, is our combat against terrorism which is a source of constant worry for us. Thirdly, and perhaps the most important one and in which I strongly believe is the divide between rural and urban India. For a country that aims to become the super economic power, we cannot afford to neglect rural areas and there is a need to empower the poor. The solution is: Education, education and education. There is a dire need to give them resources that is at par with big cities and this will lead to their economic empowerment. Let's all join hands to combat poverty through this tool called education.
What does freedom means for me as a young Indian? It means a lot and it's the sacrifice made by my forefathers so that I can breathe freely. I am at Indian at root and there is nothing on earth that can make me forget where I can truly belong, no matter where I am in this world. Whenever, I see an Indian shines be it the cricket world champion and our heroes at the Olympic game, it gives me immense pride. Whenever I hear the national anthem, Jnana Gana Mana..tears roll down my cheek and remind me how fortunate I am to have Indian root.
Who says Indians want to leave the country and settle somewhere else? Even if I am not in India, I want to come back and serve the country. Today, many Indians settled abroad or the generation that were born in the country where their forefathers and parents have settled want to come back to their true and original motherland. It is a country rich in legacy and vibrant. Gals and guyzz, we are not called the biggest democracy for nothing.
There is something that I didnt know and I thought of sharing with you. It educated me on our power as a vibrant nation and I hope it educate you also. No one, I may add,
travels thousands of miles to conquer a poor country. Statistics
published by contemporary international scholars are proof for sceptics.
In 1750, seven years before the fateful battle of Plassey, India had
24.5% of World Manufacturing Output while United Kingdom had only 1.9%.
In other words, one in every four goods on the world market was
manufactured in India. By 1900, India had been left with only 1.7% of
World Manufacturing Output and Britain had risen to 18.5%. The western
industrial revolution was in its incipient stages in the 18th century,
but even in this regard India slipped from 7 to 1 in per capita
industrialisation in that period, while Britain vaulted from 10 to 100.
Between 1900 and 1947 India's economic growth was an annual average of
1%. This shows that India was not a poor country when it was under colonial power but the Britishers used the theory of rule and divide. They used Indian labour and took them to countries such as Fiji, Trinidad and Mauritius and made them work for peanuts. The Indians have settled in these countries but many have forgotten their roots as well but some have upheld their culture and the Indian dignity. Long Live the Republic of India Jai Hind Happyy Independence Day
Hey folks wassup? Been suffering from fever, cough due to the change of the season..bah!30 resons to cheer me up and you as well as we travel down memory lane.Received this as a forward mail from Meghna..cool na..Reasons not to grow old or to do so in a dignified manner.
Cheerio
Duuno abt u guys but am definitely feeling ancient now :(
30 Things That Will Make You Feel Old –
1. Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge was released 16 years ago.
2. Windows XP was released TEN years ago, in 2001.
3. The “new” Millennium is more than a decade old.
4. Chetan Bhagat’s antics have been around for the past 7 years!
5. Pierce Brosnan last acted as James Bond 9 years ago.
6. The Delhi Metro has been running for 9 Years now.
7. It’s been 10 years since 9/11
8. The Matrix came out 12 years ago, Keanu Reeves is 46 today
9. Mother Theresa and Lady Diana have been dead for 14 years.
10. This happened a whopping 17 years ago.
Yes, they are old, too!
11. Remember Jungle Book on Doordarshan? That was more than 15 years ago.
12. Macaulay Culkin is 30 today. “Home Alone” came out over 20 years ago.
13. Terminator 2 is 20 years old. Edward Furlong who portrayed kid John Connor is 33 now.
14. Sean Connery is 80 years old and retired.
15. The youngest Spice Girl is 35, the oldest Backstreet Boy 39, Gwen Stefani is 41, Madonna 52
16. The first Harry Potter book came out when I was in High School. 14 years ago!
17. The first season of F.R.I.E.N.D.S was aired 17 years ago! Age of the cast:
18. Remember these Guys?
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19. Akshay Kumar is older than the moon landing – He was born in 1967
20. Arnold Schwarzenegger is older than India. He was born in June 1947
21. ‘Kids’ born in 1993 can legally drive, drink and vote this year.
Where are my car keys, bob?
22. Jurassic Park is older than Justin Bieber.
24. Rajiv Gandhi has been dead for 20 years.
25. Bryan Adams’ cult song “Summer of 69″ was released 26 years ago.
26. Kids whom you remember in their diapers posting their pics on Facebook
Not like this, though.
27. Facebook has been around for 7 years. Orkut for 9.
Fraandshipping since 2002
28. Remember the little girl from Kuch Kuch Hota Hai? She is 23 now.
29. The Maruti Zen was first introduced 18 years ago.
30. And of course, the Rasna Girl. She is all grown up as well!
