Next govt must bring back our money: Baba Ramdev

(Adapted by Devika Chhibber)

An ardent admirer of Swami Vivekananda, Baba Ramdev is well known for his vigorous efforts to popularize of Yoga. But recently, his hard stance on Indian black money, allegedly stashed in Swiss accounts, has brought him into the limelight for quite a different reason. Candidly speaking in an exclusive interview with Swati Chaturvedi of Zeenews.com on ‘Kahiye Janab’, Baba Ramdev, puts forth suggestions for the next government.

Swati: Recently you have laid emphasis on compulsory voting and ending corruption. ‘Transparency International’ has listed India at the 3rd spot in the list of most corrupt countries of world, after Nigeria and Bangladesh. What’s your take on it?

Baba Ramdev: We have started a movement against ending corruption and for compulsory voting in the country. India has a lot of money which can be used for the uplift of society and to help the needy. Those who are poor and unemployed can gain a lot from such money which is stashed away in foreign banks. Thus our money .i.e. Rs 72,80,000 cr must be brought back for the development of the backward.

Swati: Before elections politicians make several promises, but never follow up on them. We are tired of hollow promises. Will your insight help us in availing fruitful results?

Baba Ramdev: We have launched our campaign to create awareness among masses. People should know where their money is going. For that, we are trying to involve as many as 50 cr people in two years’ time and will extend the figure to 100 cr in 5 years. We want people to understand the approach we have taken up. We want them to vote for the right candidate, who is honest and ready to keep his promise to bring India’s money back. "Aao kare matdan ki chot, mitayen loktantra ki khot".

Swati: BJP and Congress both have made several promises, but hardly fulfilled them ever. Do you have any hope from them?

Baba Ramdev: Currently my idea is to make people aware that their money, which can be utilized for good purposes, is in Swiss accounts and should be brought back anyhow. It’s for the first time that a Swiss bank has allowed transparency in its system and now we have the right to know about our money. My motive is to bring back that money and also find out the reasons of it going abroad. While for the political parties, I would simply like to say that they must keep their conscience clear.

Swati: BJP or Congress which party’s conscience is the clearest according to you?

Baba Ramdev: How can we decide that, especially when the political parties themselves are not clear in their respective approach? It’s necessary that politicians speak their mind and vow that they will bring back our money. At least they should accept the fact that our money is stashed in those accounts. Karat, Advani and Sharad Pawar have at least spoken of bringing back the money. It’s our country’s money and we should safeguard it anyhow. I would like to mention one point here that we will bring back those Rs 72,80,000 cr even if we have to go to war for that. We are a powerful country and we can lead the world. Politicians nowadays are trying to raise the issue just to gain political mileage, but we are very honest in our approach and after elections we will achieve our goal even if we have to march to Parliament. This is not my challenge, but my determination.

Swati: You took the names of Karat, Advani and Sharad Pawar, but let me inform you that these were the same people who created a lot of hue and cry when the Bofors Case was exposed. But still that money is out of India’s reach?

Baba Ramdev: We have to show the politicians that we want to take this issue seriously. Because of the corrupt politicians, businessmen and bureaucrats the situation has become more troublesome. How can we just keep this issue aside. Bringing back the money can improve the situation across country. Therefore, we are laying emphasis on this issue. Hence people must wake up and take up the situation seriously.

Swati: People are tired of reminding our great politicians. Don’t you agree on that?

Baba Ramdev: Swiss banks have for the first time taken up option of disclosing the information and we will make use of the service the best. Be it NDA, UPA, Third Front or Fourth Front only that party will be able to rule which will promise us that they will bring back our money. People are dying of poverty and when they will see that the culprits are in front of their eyes they will just vanquish them.

Swati: Earlier politicians made promises now Baba is doing the same. What is the deadline you are giving to the next government?

Baba Ramdev: After elections when the new government will come to power we will send them a letter demanding to find out a solution to the issue as soon as possible. We will wait for about a year and if we do not get appropriate response we will give a befitting reply to the govt. If we can vote in any govt we can also vote them out.

Swati: Baba Ramdev is also capable of giving wonderful speeches.

Baba Ramdev: I believe in performance and not in making empty speeches. One piece of work speaks volumes and I believe in it.

Swati: Would Baba Ramdev be seen entering politics in near future?

Baba Ramdev: No I would never want to enter politics. I am fine here teaching yoga to my followers. This is my biggest asset till date and I would not like to lose their love.

Swati: Out of the current politicians whom do you feel are the least corrupt and don’t be diplomatic?

Baba Ramdev: I think we should leave this for media as they are the best ones to judge this out. I am not trying to be diplomatic because people who know their work best should be left with them. "Jiska kaam usi ka sajhe, doosra kare to ninda baje".

Swati: You inspire so many people. Whom are you inspired with in Indian politics?

Baba Ramdev: Every party is a mixture comprising honest and dishonest people. We are nobody to question anybody’s character. People know best about the leaders standing from their constituencies. Hence, it would not be justified if I raise finger at somebody.

Swati: You have so many followers from all parties. Whom will you ask people to vote for in these elections?

Baba Ramdev: This election entirely different from earlier polls as it has no national issue. Emphasis is laid on age and caste. Those who are young are considered ignorant, while old are considered weak. We need patriots who love their country, who are true Indians are strong and are honest. We don’t want India to become a failed state like Pakistan. Already 300 districts are in close contact with terror groups. But what can one candidate do. Therefore we want to request the political parties to think and make efforts to bring back the money from the Swiss accounts so that we can use it for those who really need it.

Swati: Tell us something about your compulsory voting campaign.

Baba Ramdev: Oh! This campaign has really become influential. Previously people said that Baba has gone mad and the campaign won’t work but it has already got a success. This time you can see that nearly 60% voter turnout in comparison to the last elections.

Swati: Do you feel bad when people question your aesthetics, values or motives?

Baba Ramdev: No, I never feel sad because if I am right, I am not afraid of what others say and the day I will be wrong, I myself won’t be able to face the world as I would feel guilty.

‘Change’ required in Indian democracy: Rakeysh Mehra

“He’s not going to win, but my vote is a vote for having more voices heard in the country”- Larry Bell

‘Janaagraha’s’ One Billion Voters (OBV) campaign launched by a Bangalore based non-profit organization took up some thought-provoking and interactive panel discussion on ‘Young India and role of youth in shaping its democracy’.
The panel discussion at the ITC Maurya Hotel in Delhi saw involvement of eminent personalities from film fraternity like director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra (‘Rang De Basanti’ and ‘Delhi 6’ fame), who is also the advisory board member of the OBV campaign and celebrated actor Rahul Bose.

Excerpts:

About ‘One Billion Voter’

being asked about the campaign, Rakeysh answered that sometimes in our life we are driven by an urge to do something for our country and this is the foundation, which we are planning to lay here. Change comes from within. Many of us talk about changing the whole scenario but for that we need to change ourselves first. That is what this campaign is all about. Rahul Bose said that the campaign is an initiative to bring awareness among the youth. OBV campaign seeks to improve the functioning of the Indian democracy by empowering citizens especially the youth to participate in the political process. The first leg of the campaign will enable them to make an informed choice, and ensure a huge voter turn out in the General Elections.

How can technology help voters?

Answering to this question Hemant Sachdev, Joint Director of Microsoft India, which is campaigning partner stated that there was a time when India had doubts about the Y generation’s technology but today’s youth is well versed in the techniques. Technology helps in providing a platform to express emotions. This is what we are trying to do - to build a bridge between technology and politics. If a youth knows updates of several candidates and their constituencies through websites, SMS facilities or search tools, he automatically starts developing an interest in the field.

Is politics cool?

Rahul answered this question quite politely and said that he doesn’t agree with people who say that politics is cool. Politics is everywhere whether it’s about MF Hussain’s return to India or banning rock show events after 10 pm. Hence, it’s time that we understand the value of politics rather than ignoring the situation.

Any interest in Politics?

Rahul said, “As an Indian yes I am interested in politics but I am not a politician. Everybody is born with a motive. I can say that Rakeysh Mehra can direct movies conveying social messages while I can enact good roles in some very good movies. But politics is certainly not our cup of tea.”

Qualities of a powerful leader

Rakeysh answered this question, “Leader in itself is a word that holds a powerful meaning. We don’t need politicians, we need good leaders, who are capable of taking hard stance in certain circumstances, who respect the country and are responsible and accountable towards the citizens who bring them to power. We should not forget that the one in power can only make significant changes in society.” In answer to the question, Rahul Bose quoted the lines of U2 band leader Bono, he said, “Now I can talk to the President from my platform on the issues of the black and apartheid as I have the power to do so. We must always remember that power comes with great responsibilities."

Do we have good leaders today?

Rakeysh answered that those who are there are not leaders but politicians. On asking whether we have a choice while selecting them. He said that we may not have a choice but what we can do is not vote for any of them and teach them that our vote is worthier and that the corrupt candidates are not acceptable. Suppose a lady goes to a sari shop and tries to select the best out of the lot. If she doesn’t find the best, what she can do is to tell the shopkeeper that his collection is not of her taste and leave without making any purchases, that’s exactly what I am trying to say here.

Take on women voters

Rakeysh emphasized that women are the key players in our society. They nurture a child and strengthen our character. Because of a woman, we are able to face hardships prevalent in the society, so I think that emphasis should be laid on their voting too because they are the root and without watering the root a tree cannot nourish properly.

How do you see today’s youth?

With a grim smile, Rahul decided to answer by citing an incident from his life. He said that in 1985, when he was 18, Rajiv Gandhi came to power. At that time India lacked self-esteem. Youth in those days just wanted to settle down in America with their MBA degrees and forget about their motherland but today’s youth is so different, so full of life, so decisive. He knows that he can lead a life of self-respect here in India. He knows that he has the power to uproot corruption. Above all, he is proud to be an Indian and now especially post 26/11 he has started demonstrating and not accepting the corruption. He comes out on the road to express that he is hurt and angry with those politicians, who do nothing but feed themselves on public money.

On youth entering politics

Rakeysh agreed that those youth, who are interested in politics, do not get sufficient chances or do not have appropriate funds to support their candidature. But then every profession has problems, so, if somebody is really interested he/she will definitely emerge victorious amidst problems. My example is in front of you in this case.We should never forget that change is a timeless process. What we have started may take 2-3 years time but we should not be depressed with this thought. Someone has to take the first step to give our future generation a life of peace and prosperity.

One change required fervently

If someday I get the opportunity to do so I would like to uproot corruption from every field. Corruption is a disease, which decomposes everything. So, let us think of the brighter side and try to vote and bring change, said Rahul.

Your vision for India?

Rahul said that India is beautiful. It’s a country where everybody gets respect, basic rights and privileges, where the youth is not suppressed. Where we don’t have to look out for options. Where law binds all and the youth gets a chance to express and fulfill their basic desires and demands.

Hi there!!!!!

Down below many of my postings are the bylines which i received from Zeenews.com. Even in future i will keep updating my other posts here and will look forward to write on severe issues daily...

Devika Chhibber

`If`- My favourite one

`If` Rudyard Kipling (1910)

If you can keep your head when all about you Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;

If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you But make allowance for their doubting too;

If you can wait and not be tired by waiting, Or, being lied about, don't deal in lies, Or, being hated, don't give way to hating, And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise;

If you can dream--and not make dreams your master;

If you can think--and not make thoughts your aim;

If you can meet with triumph and disaster And treat those two imposters just the same;

If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools, Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools;

If you can make one heap of all your winnings And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss, And lose, and start again at your beginnings And never breathe a word about your loss;

If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew To serve your turn long after they are gone, And so hold on when there is nothing in you Except the Will which says to them: "Hold on!";

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue, Or walk with kings--nor lose the common touch;

If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you; If all men count with you, but none too much;

If you can fill the unforgiving minute With sixty seconds' worth of distance run-- Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it, And--which is more--you'll be a Man, my son!

This is my favourite poem thus decided to share it with YOU ALL. This poem holds a meaning that u r the only one who have the solution of all ur problems. Hence become progressive and defeat all the evils who are hindering ur path of success. `Discovering urself is more glorifying than any materialistic oppurtunities in the world`. I believe it.

FINDING SOLITUDE IS THEIR DESTINY……….

Is success halting the frames of young minds to such an extent that the contrast emerges in the form of newly developed and well furnished Old Age Homes? We agree that the concept of quick success at the ease of individuality has fast taken pace but is it right that we forget and cut down our own roots in this process? In the last 20 years visionary old age homes have been on a rise. Parents, who instead of enjoying their shares of life together have laid more emphasis on the twist and turns of their young ones, are left behind with remorse and worry. And we the so called Gen Z people in an attempt to concentrate on our promising careers forget all about their sacrifices. Have we become so selfish that in our achievements and glories we forget all about our real families? The main arching reason today for the growth of these homes is the growing idea of nuclear families, then property disputes and less understanding among family members are the other inviting reasons. One very unique fact have also come up, the parents sometime themselves take decision to live in such homes, to maintain their dignity and also to spend their lives together. Why we turn our backs towards those people who have nourished us with the ups and downs of their life? Who are we, to leave them all alone in dark corners, in their moments of need and desire for us? One should never forget, History repeats itself and `As you sow so shall you reap`.
I wrote this after seeing the poor conditions of the people and the aged who reside in an old age home named `AASRA`- THE SHELTER as defined by one of my friend.

U r n will remain my ANGEL all my life............

We generally desire things besides what we have. Today i am finding it quite true. Today what i want the most is my mothers arms running smoothly all around me. Her embrace which makes me feel special and her warmth which gives me the joy of being so precious and beautiful. Her kisses assure me that besides being naughty and a hell lot of mischievous she loves me a lot , a lot more than any other wonderful thing on this planet. She mesmerizes me with those beautiful eyes of hers. Her pink smile gives me the vision of a greek goddess who is ready to enshower her love and warmth on anyone. Once i told her that she is my first love and she truly is. I think i worship her. She is my creator , my supporter and she is the one who has always cheered me in my journey of success and failures. Whenever in my moments of sorrow i have turned back i have always found her giving me strength and confidence to fight back the tears and step ahead on a new jouney of success and achivements. I love u mumma a lot n pray that i love you similarly all my life. Thank you for always being there with me. Without you i would have never been here.
Neeru, only for you my love
Urs Parul

हिन्दी तुम मेरी साथी हो !

सुबह की सुर्ख लाली और शाम का चमकता सितारा
खुशियों का मौसम और बागों का महकता ठिकाना
दोस्त की वो मीठी बात और हँसते हुए वो कॉलेज ना जाने का बहाना
कभी किसी पे हसना कभी ख़ुद मजाक का हिस्सा बनना
वो होठों की हँसी और शोर शराबे में क्लास में न पढ़ना
मौजों की लहर मतवाली
चाय की दुकान पर वो मीठी प्याली
कभी गलती पर डांट पड़ना कभी मुस्कुरा के सारी बातें अनसुना करना
सत्र ख़तम होते होते वो भविष्य के इरादे
वो साथ रहने के वायदे
वो हम-तुम करने की शरारत हर बात पे खीजना हर बात पे झल्लाना
पर फिर मुस्कुरा के दोस्ती की कसमें खाना
हर कसम पे नसीहत हर नसीहत पे गुस्सा
हर गुस्से पे मुस्कराहट हर मुस्कराहट का किस्सा
वो सारा आलम
आज भी मेरी यादों का हिस्सा
हर खुशी आपस में बांटना हर दुःख में किसी का साथी होना
हर पल को खुशियों से तोलना
आखिरकार ज़िन्दगी को अपनी शर्तों पे जीना
ये सब इतना आसान नही होता अगर तू मेरे पास नही होती
तूने मेरी ज़िन्दगी को आसान ही नही बनाया है
बल्कि मेरे जीवन में जोश का जज्बा भी जगाया है
शायद मैं संवेदनाहीन होती अगर मुझे तेरा साथ नही होता मिला
तू मेरी भाषा ही नही मेरी आत्मा है मेरा विश्वास मेरा हौंसला
पूरी की तूने जीवन की कमियाँ
तू है मेरी मां
"इसलिए मैं तेरा शुक्रिया करती हूँ और इस अवसर पर मैं तुझे शत शत प्रणाम करती हूँ इस हिन्दी ने हमें सब कुछ दिया पर हम आज उसे ही भूलते जा रहे हैं क्या ये आज की ज़रूरत नहीं एक तरफ़ हम जहाँ अपनी सभ्यता और परम्परा को बचने की बात करते है वही प्रतिस्पर्धा के नाम पे अपनी मात्रभाषा को भूलते जा रहे हैं चलो आज अपनी आवाजों को एक कर कर अपनी भाषा का वैसा ही ख्याल रखने का प्राण करे जैसे हम अपने मां बाप का रखते हैं "

अब डरने लगा हूँ

पहले डरता नही था पर अब डरने लगा हूँ ,

रोज़ तिल तिल कर मरने लगा हूँ ,

रोज़ बस से आफिस जाता हूँ ,

इसलिए आस पास की चीज़ों पर ध्यान लगता

हूँसीट के नीचे किसी बम की शंका से मन ग्रसित रहता

हैकभी कोई लावारिस बैग भ्रमित करता है ।

ख़ुद से ज़्यादा परिवार की फ़िक्र करता हूँ

इसलिए हर बात मे उनका ज़िक्र करता हूँ

रोज़ अपने चैनल के लिए ख़बर करता हूँ
और किसी रोज़ ख़बर बनने से डरता हूँ
मैं एक आम हिन्दुस्तानी की तरहां रहता हूँ

इसलिए रोज़ तिल तिल कर मरता हूँ

हालत यही रहे तो किसी रोज़ मैं भीकिसी सर फिरे की गोली या बम का शिकार बन जाऊँगा

कुछ और न सही पर बूढे अम्मी अब्बू केआंसुओं का सामान बन जाऊँगा।

इस तरह एक नही कई जिनदगियाँ तबाह हो जाएँगीबहोत न सही पर थोडी ही

दहशतगर्दों की आरजुओं की गवाह हो जाएँगी ।

इसीलिए मैं अब डरने लगा हूँहर रोज़ तिल तिल कर मरने लगा हूँ ,

तिल तिल कर मरने लगा हूँ ।

Posted by Tanzir Ansar

Mariah Carey: Beauty with substance

What happens when you feel short of words for somebody? Someone who is sensuous, glamorous and flamboyant in addition to being an excellent singer and presenter? This holds true for the March 1970 born Mariah Carey. Eventually, when you look-up the word "diva" in the dictionary, picture of Mariah Carey appears as the visual reference. In spite of the subtle reference to other female singers in the definition, Carey displays all characteristics of a diva. Mariah Carey is an American pop and R&B singer-songwriter, record producer, and actress. She made her recording debut in 1990 under the guidance of Columbia Records executive Tommy Mottola, and became the first recording artist to have her first five singles top the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. Family life and past circleCarey was born in Long Island, New York, to Patricia Carey, who was a vocalist and Alfred Roy Carey, an aeronautical engineer. Since the tender age of four, she knew she wanted to sing. After her parents divorce Mariah was reared by her mother an Irish-American mother, Patricia who was a vocal coach and former singer with New York city Opera. Her older sister, Allison and her brother Morgon both stayed with their father. During her childhood, Mariah only periodically saw her father. Her father's mother was Black and his father was Venezuelan. Therefore, she had to go through the stress of being an inter-racial couple’s child in the '60s and ‘70s, which put her under tremendous strain. Over the years, their dogs were poisoned and cars were set on fire and blown up. By the time she was 18, Carey had a tape ready for the moment when the opportunity would come knocking. After her High School graduation she got her big break singing for Brenda K Starr, which lead to her eventual deal with the Columbia Records. A brief meeting with Sony executive Tommy Mottola, at a party was all she needed to begin her rendezvous with superstardom. Mottola told Ebony magazine that he knew right away that she had star potential. "When I first heard and saw Mariah, there was absolutely no doubt she was in every way destined for stardom," he said. Musical journeyHer early commercial success came with her debut album Mariah Carey. Carey burst onto the scene with the affluent and soulful single "Vision of Love," in 1990. It was the first single from her first album, which distinguished her as a talented singer. Except for three albums, each of her first singles has hit number one on the charts. The incredible freshman efforts lead Carey to become the third artist to ever be nominated in the same year for best album, best song and best new artist. This effort earned 22 weeks at Billboard's number one and moved more than seven million copies. It was while making her debut album, Carey and Tom Motolla got involved with each other and finally they were married in June 1993. Her second album Emotions was claimed by Rolling Stone as 'one of the same with less interesting material'. The title track "Emotions" made Carey the only recording act to have her first five singles reach number one on the US Hot 100 chart, though the album's follow-up singles failed to match this feat. After which she began writing and producing for other artists including Penny Ford and Daryl Hall. Her first widely seen appearance was featured on the television show 'Unplugged'. Mariah has sold more than 12 million albums worldwide and yielded a record setting four consecutives on the No 1 position with songs like 'Vision of love', 'Love takes time', 'Somebody' and 'I don't wanna cry'. Butterfly is the most popular album and the title song is the most tracked. It marked the maturation of the actor. The songs took her music and fans in a bold direction as it was a mixture of the Rap and the hip hop with sophisticated lyrics and production technologies. With so much record-breaking successes under her belt and an album of greatest hits that included 13 number one singles, it seemed that Carey had accomplished all that any one person could in music. Carey's monumental success also helped her dethrone the Beatles that year to become the artists with the most weeks on top of Billboards Hot 100 singles list. By 2000, Carey began to spread her wings into the acting field as well. She finished a small part in the Rene Zellweger film, The Bachelor, and began looking for other acting roles to broaden her already full horizon of talent. Her bag of Grammies American singer Mariah Carey has received five Grammy Awards and a total of thirty-three nominations since the start of her career in 1990. She is the second most-nominated female artist in Grammy Award history behind Aretha Franklin, who has thirty-eight nominations. Carey won her first two awards in 1991, and at the 1996 show she had been nominated in six categories. She did not win any awards that year, and it marked the last time that she attended a Grammy Awards ceremony until 2006, when she was nominated for eight awards, the highest number of nominations that she has received for a single year. She appeared and performed at the awards show, and won three more awards. Emotional breakdownsIt is said that ‘success comes with pain’ and Mariah’s life reflects the statement. Her journey was certainly not on smooth ends. Be it her childhood or adulthood, her life was filled with miseries and sorrows but like a fighter she always remained unmoved. Critics panned ‘Glitter’, Carey's much delayed semi-autobiographical film, and it was a box office failure. The lead single, ‘Loverboy’ (featuring Cameo), reached number two on the Hot 100 thanks to a price cut, but the album's follow-up singles failed to chart. Following a well-received supporting role in the 2002 film ‘WiseGirls’, Carey released the album Charmbracelet, which she said marked "a new lease on life" for her sales of Charmbracelet were moderate, and the quality of Carey's vocals came under severe criticism. "Through the Rain", was a failure on pop radio, which had become less open to maturing "diva" stylists such as Celine Dion, or Carey herself in favour of younger singers such as Kelly Clarkson or Christina Aguilera, who had vocal styles very similar to Carey's. Best of her songs''Vision of Love'' (Mariah Carey, 1990)''You're So Cold'' (Emotions, 1991) ''Always Be My Baby'' (Daydream, 1995''Butterfly'' (Butterfly, 1997) ''The Beautiful Ones'' (Butterfly, 1997) ‘‘Fantasy’’ (featuring O.D.B.) (#1s, 1998) ''I Still Believe'' (#1s, 1998) ''Heartbreaker'' (Rainbow, 1999) ''Last Night a DJ Saved My Life'' (Glitter, 2001) ''We Belong Together'' (The Emancipation of Mimi, 2005) ''Shake It Off'' (The Emancipation of Mimi, 2005) ''Your Girl'' (The Emancipation of Mimi, 2005) FilmographyThe Bachelor (1999) Glitter (2001) Ally McBeal (episode: "Playing with Matches", 2002) WiseGirls (2002) Death of a Dynasty (cameo, 2003) The Proud Family (herself, 2003) State Property 2 (2005) Tennessee (2008) You Don't Mess with the Zohan (filming) Push (2008)

Frankly speaking with Alok Tomar

Alok Tomar is an eminent and known face of the media industry. His early career began with UNI at the age of 19. Till date he has contributed many works as a scriptwriter by being a part of NDTV (Ji Mantri Ji), Aaj Tak, Zeenews, Jansatta, Pioneer and also KBC. Here is a short excerpt from his conversation with Devika Chhibber about his experiences at The Taj--

What was your initial thought after understanding the terror situation?

As a scriptwriter my preliminary thought was OK I have got another story. But later on some panic did creep in my head and I felt a bit helpless. Though later on I relaxed and started sorting out ways to deal with the situation.

Any moment when you were face to face with death?

Once at midnight when we all were relaxing suddenly fire broke out in the tomb next to our hall. We could not see anything. Everywhere it was just smoke, black smoke our eyes were burning. That was the moment I felt that my end is near. But finally the police personals came and guided us outside the room. I can never forget this moment.

Was the security system efficient in combating terror?

NSG arrived somewhere around 7:30 in the morning on 27th in the BEST buses. So you can well guess out what was the situation before. We were left on the security of the police who were having simple rifles which was a poor comparison with the AK 47 of the terrorists. I can assure you many would have not used their guns in a situation like this ever before.

So much discussion is going on over media`s role, what`s your take on it?

I myself have done a course on war reporting, which earlier was provided by the Indian government. So I can understand that reporting in such situations becomes really difficult. Thus we require skilled and trained reporters for such situations in which Indian media really lacks. Hence coverage does not become easy for reporters who usually cover political and human issues. There is an utmost need to have skilled and trained media personals to cope and combat such situations.

At last after being a part of such mayhem now do you see life with a difference?

No not much I am still lazy and lethargic. Actually I am still the same but yes as a journalist I have a new piece of adventure to share with the world. I would also suggest terrorists that such heinous acts of crime won`t suppress the spirits of Indians. We know what are you people trying to do and we well do all in our wills to evade it.

Rendezvous with Alok Tomar- `My 17 hours at The Taj…`

Who said terror has no face? Terror has a face in all those humans who are alive to tell a tale of the brutal acts of crime committed on them. With the Mumbai siege, finally over what now remains is the left over. The left over, which is neither describable nor imaginable. Mumbai attacks have proved that our security systems have lacked and we have failed. We just can`t state the pain and torture faced by those who were present there. Some have died while some are alive to tell the stories of pain inflicted on them by the terror groups.

Here is one such person Alok Tomar, a senior journalist, and with old association with Zee news himself who encountered the terror attack. Here he has recalled his experience of the Taj cordon. He has pen down his adventures, as he was present in the new building, The Taj Tower. Let`s read his experience---

Alok Tomar---My 17 hours at The Taj…

Landing for the second time at Mumbai airport in 15 days my first plan was to visit the film city to meet one producer friend who has sent me the ticket to do so. However, you call it a coincidence, my fate, sheer destiny or irony of the situation that his mobile was switched off and the car also didn`t come to pick me up.

By chance, it happened that one of my friends, also a fellow traveller, was going to Colaba region so just in order to spend time and to catch-up with old times, I accompanied him. My producer friend called me when I was already celebrating the birthday of my friend’s colleague`s son at the top floor of the New wing of Taj Hotel.

It goes `Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder` the same happened with me. Taj has always attracted me. I remember, this striking monument was constructed to welcome George 5th nearly a century ago. On one hand where this monument derives a wow from the hearts of many simultaneously, the prices at the famous hotel are really heart breaking. (can do without this)

The watch was striking the chord. At 9 PM, the party has not yet begun. People were getting restless, suddenly a man informed everybody that a blast has been reported at the Sasoon Dock, where I lived for a long time, and gunshots are being heard. Actually, his idea was that somehow Abu Salem has escaped from the prison though we all knew that Arthur Road was far off from Colaba.

All of a sudden, everybody started getting messages on their cell phones. It was a total chaos. After sometime, we heard gunshots on the road below but saw nobody. Finally, when nothing went wrong we started partying again. Later we heard sirens of police and the manager came in the picture that was when we actually realised that something has gone wrong. In spite of children`s resistance the managers called off the party. Some people managed to go down through service lift while others managed to get down through staircases. At last, we all reached the big hall where the plasma TV was running, with the help of which we came to know about the terror attack on the financial capital of India, Mumbai.

I too, am like all is afraid of death but being a journalist the desire to live the adventure in any such situation was one of my biggest fantasies. Mostly, after getting the boarding pass I pray in subconscious to become the part of a hijack drama. Here too, I was just waiting to pen down memoirs of any such incident in my life and this was my chance. Although, I was frightened, I felt lucky too. I tried to move out of the hall by showing my so powerful press card but it didn`t help me as the well-built guard on the door stopped me from moving out. Subsequently we heard our manager speaking that some terrorists have come in the building and thus we must stay quietly at our respective places and if we require anything, we can call up the reception. All chargers of several models were sent. Suddenly the TV stopped working. The response from the reception was very puzzling that there was some technical problem and the TV would be rectified eventually. By that time, we all knew that some terror groups have made their way not only in Taj and Colaba but also at Oberoi and a coffee place nearby.

Some time later, the manager came with some packets of food and said sorry for the inconvenience. He also assured that our safety was his priority. Many of us wanted to smoke hence, understanding the circumstances he brought several packets of Dun Hill with him and opened the nearest room for the purpose also asserting the fact that we won`t be charged for the same. Wah Taj!

Gradually, all of us were nervous and anxious as to what will happen next. However, in due course we all settled. By that time, we understood that TV was disconnected in order to prevent terrorists from monitoring the outside activities. We all relaxed after sometime but were abruptly raised by an alarm that fire has broken in the building. Next to our room was the tomb, which has caught fire. We knew that we might not be able to save our lives but who wishes to be burnt alive. Hell we just didn`t know what to do?

At 1 AM we heard sounds of gunshots and blasts from within the hotel. People who had come their to celebrate their birthdays thought that it`s their death day, now while my mind was working on a new story. Many of my new found friends started telling me about their last wish. By that time, we could see the cranes. Many were even ready to pay for their lives. However, `friends with money you can buy your death not your life`.

Time just passed out. Finally came the morning the most beautiful morning of my life. Sun, which I used to watch regularly unexpectedly, seemed to be so brilliant. It was a perfect morning, morning which enlightened new horizons in my life. The hotel staff kept coming in between to reassure our safety. How brave of them they also kept us informed about where the terrorists were actually hiding. In total, they were keeping us abreast with the latest news of the day. The terrorists were actually hiding in the kitchen and basement as they had planned a 9/11 for Taj by hitting the historical monument at the base.By that time our mobiles were jammed for security reasons.

First time in my life, I slept sitting on the sofa. People say that habit never goes it`s true friends, later when I woke up my first urge was to read a newspaper. I simply can`t live without it. But in all this drama where would I have got a newspaper when we were the biggest news piece of the day followed by every channel and highlighted by all newspapers though that time the conclusion of the terror act was yet to be sketched out. Finally, after two in the afternoon the security guards directed us to move safely down the hall through the service lifts, to the narrow lanes backwards, away from the now lonely standing hotel to the BEST buses.

Thank god and more then that thanks to dare devil commandos, I was safe and sound. A sense of relief surpassed me on the thought that my media friends were not there or else they would have surely asked me that how a newsmaker became news himself. For, which I would have replied all thanks to the terrorists of the Mumbai mayhem………

`Your touch spreads love, not AIDS`

Love transcends all boundaries. It is love, which bring two strangers together. It helps in better understanding between friends. It is the only way to show and express human emotions. A mere expression and true gesture of love can make anybody yours. However, today this word is losing its force and sex is gaining momentum. Sex – though, an essential aspect of anybody’s life – is incomplete without love. So let us join hands and share the feeling of love on AIDS Day, as December 1 is celebrated world wide as World AIDS Day. Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome i.e. (AIDS or Aids) happens due to damage to the human immune system caused by the human immunodeficiency virus or HIV. I would like to highlight the human side of AIDS through this short story —Last year while visiting my aunt in Bhopal; I met a man in the local bus who was very handsome, attractive and dynamic. After exchanging glances, I asked him about his professional life. To my surprise, he was a police officer. A happily married man he seemed to be full of zest for life. Sometime later, I heard him telling his wife that he has taken all his medicines. Curious, I asked him if he was well. Nothing much, he said, he just had AIDS. I got the shock of my life. I just could not believe that he was suffering from the so-called deadly disease, which we have studied in our textbooks. Nevertheless, it was true. The incident was a revelation for me. I had a poor opinion for such people but after meeting this man, I started looking at the perspective more broadly. I remembered some slogans used in advertisements like ‘Pyar chune se failta hai na ki aids’. We must realize that there are people who are living with this disease as if nothing has changed. For them it has become their normal routine. They know their precautions, they know that have to live with it and they live daringly. What matters to them most is the care and affection of the world surrounding them. What helps them in facing their critical situation is the gentle touch of their dear ones. What helps them in surviving through the problems of life is our love. Any human being feel helpless only Even today AIDS victims are treated as untouchables as if they are not humans.

So let us stand united on this day and vow to show love and affection to all AIDS sufferers and make this world a better place for them to live in.

Chhattisgarh (Hopes of sunshine or promises of doom again)- State Elections

With the election fever gripping all states, surpassing promises and novel hopes in every eye is mounting. Be it any party president or worker everybody is crossing their fingers to woo the voter and win elections. Where on one hand party is ready to grant all wishes to the elector on the other hand no stone is left unturned to influence voters. Be it emptying their pockets or making false promises. All party slogans are simple to guess `Desh hamara naara hai janta hamari data hai`-- `Serving country is our motto and people of the land are our god` i.e. come what may but we will do all to serve the nation and its citizens.

Party politics in India has always been rampant and many issues play crucial role in deciding the strategy and power sharing modules in any state. For a better view let`s take a closer look at Chhattisgarh polls, which are to occur in two phases on Nov 14th and 20th. What remains unfolded is the strategy, which the two leading parties in state would follow. On one side is BJP, which will work under the effective leadership of CM Dr. Raman Singh while on the other hand Congress would try to influence the mass by the comeback of former CM Ajit Jogi. Jogi who has repeatedly proven his mettle in Chhattisgarh, is contesting from `Marwahi`.

However, with every upcoming election, parties set new agendas but their goals forever remains same i.e. `to rule and earn instead of govern`. Something similar can be foreseen in the by-polls of Chhattisgarh for 90 assembly seats, which are due to take place in 2 phases on Nov 14th and 20th. What remain unseen and untold are the consequences.

If we take a glimpse in the political history of the state there are many noticeable facts. After the formation of the state in 2000, Ajit Jogi received a major setback when the National Commission for SC and ST ruled that he does not belong to the scheduled tribe and has been "fraudulently" claiming that he belonged to Kanwar community for getting ST certificate. It was then that he had to resign following, which Raman Singh succeeded him in 2003 and I believe that he had given it his best shot. Therefore, in the upcoming polls competition is tough as both Raman Singh and Ajit Jogi are in the run as CM candidates from BJP and Congress respectively.

Burning issues

Developmental issues:

What do we understand by development? Development is one issue, which concerns all be it upper, lower or middle class. Every segment of the society is in some or the other way related to it. Development is the improvement in the conditions of tribes, woman, and taking in care key issues like health, poverty, education, employment, standard of living, infrastructure and Mineral resources.

Tribes—Chhattisgarh is the state of the tribes. It`s one of the most fascinating destinations not only in India but in the world too. Known for its exceptional scenic beauty and unique and rich cultural heritage, Chhattisgarh has always been synonymous with tribes and tribal culture. Tribes, which have retained their culture and traditions for centuries. Over one third of the state population is of tribes, most of them inhabiting in the thickly forested areas of the famous Bastar region.

Bastar is the largest tribal district of Chhattisgarh with over 70% of its total population comprising of tribals, which is about 26.76% of the total tribal population of Chhattisgarh. The Gond Tribes are well known for their unique Ghotul system of marriages, in all over the world. Other major tribes of Chhattisgarh region include the Baiga, Korba, Abhuj Maria, BisonHorn Maria, Muria, Halbaa, Bhatra and Dhurvaa tribes.

Chhattisgarh is a proud region where several tribes have flourished but today they face several dangers. All tribes are very backward and do not feel the need to be come in the outer world which prevents them from being exposed to the outer world.

The problems include asymmetrical distribution of education and employment leading to other key problems like of health and poverty. Thus, this issue tops the developmental agenda of all political parties. The object would be simple i.e. to implement and develop a replicable model that ensures house hold food security and improves livelihood opportunities and overall quality of life of the Tribal population based on the sustainable and equitable use of natural resources. As Chhattisgarh, is rich in mineral ores and other natural resources. Hence, the goal of the programme should be to promote sustainable improvement in the food and livelihood security and general quality of life of the target group.

Women status--

One other issue relating to the above topic is proper care of women in this region.
Today it`s one of the many harsh realities of women's health in this country that begins at birth, goes on through girlhood to adolescence and adulthood. They are treated as mere creatures who only have to cope up with the harsh treatment from the opposite sex.
The women are so scared due to the Naxal problems they see only death and destruction. There is no drinking water. Every day a couple of children die. There is no woman doctor. As a result, women with health problems have no one to whom they can turn. Women are told not to step out of the camps but the real danger to their lives is from the living conditions inside the camp. Hence, more emphasis must be laid on how to improve their condition, as they are the ones who nurture next generation.

Infrastructure facilities--

Chhattisgarh is well connected by road network. There are 3 National Highways passing through the State. Railway is another dominant factor in the industrialisation of the State. Raipur, Bilaspur, Durg, Rajnandgaon, Raigarh and Korba are important railway stations. The State also has one major airport in the capital city of Raipur. The airport is situated over 543.41 acres of land and has one main runway. It serves as the gateway to places like Bilaspur, Bhilai, Raigarh, Ambikapur, Koriya, Jashpurnagar and Rajnandgaon and is well connected to the major cities in the country.

Jitendra Jain brings `Joy 24x7` to all readers

`Joy 24x7`, a book authored by Jitendra Jain lays emphasis on the colourful aspects of human life. It also includes Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudhev`s observations on pleasure and ecstasy.

DePOT, which is a part of Pantaloon Retail (India) Limited (also a part of Future Group) and a retailer of ‘books, music and gifts’, launched 'Joy 24x7', authored by Jitendra Jain, in the presence of Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudhev, who is the founder of Isha Foundation at a book release function held at DePOT, Ambi Mall, Gurgaon.

Jitendra Jain is a volunteer with Isha Foundation and was initiated by Sadhguru in 2004. An Electronics Engineer from Hyderabad and an MBA from Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore, he has worked at Senior Management levels in Marketing at various Multinational organizations.

The book 'Joy 24x7' is not based on any religion, ritual, meditation techniques or spiritual practices; but simply dwells on inspiration to explore joy. The book also has simple, short snippets of what Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudhev has to say, about 'Joy'. Full of Sadhguru’s incredible clarity of expression, his brilliant wit and sense of observation, his ability to bring the most profound aspect in a very simple and direct way, this book is for anyone who seeks to be joyful in life.

Speaking at the release, Jitendra Jain, author, Joy 24x7 said, “The joy that I experienced with Isha Yoga is something that I wanted to share with other people around the world through my book 'Joy 24x7'. I have no words to express my gratitude; it is such an honour to be able to enunciate what I felt through this book. I would like to also thank Depot for being associated with this release and agreeing to provide me with the platform to sell the book in all their stores, across the country, and to help me spread the joy”.

Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudhev is the founder of Isha Foundation, which is a non-profit organization based at Velliangiri Mountains in southern India. The foundation is a non-political, non-religious organization that does not promote any particular ideology, but works on the mission of the betterment of all individuals, society and world.

Saffron, White, Green – Flying colours of Indian Air Force

The Indian Air Force (IAF), which came into being on April 1, 1932, is celebrating its 76th founding day today. It was originally founded by Air Marshal Subroto Mukherjee, who took over as the first Indian Chief of Air Staff (CAS) on April 1, 1954. The IAF took off as a tiny fleet with four Westland Wapiti Army co-operative by-planes, six RAF trained officers and 19 Hawai Sepoys. Today, it is seen as the fourth largest Air Force in the world with a highly technical and specialised fighting force that safeguards our skies against enemy invasions.

The anniversary was celebrated at the Hindon Air Force base on the outskirts of the national capital with full enthusiasm and pride. Though I was present there as a media person, I felt like a child who had suddenly found her whole dreamland, which truly allured me. Nowadays we often say that we youths are forgetting our heroes or losing the feelings of patriotism, but the view in front of me today had sufficient enough to behold anyone. It was certainly an event which helped me recall the glorifying history of my motherland.

The programme began at 7:30 am sharp with an air display by 52 aircraft that formed part of the Air Force Day Parade-cum-investiture ceremony. Air display started with Para Motor and NCC operated aero models performing prior to the sky diving display during which sky divers of the Akash Ganga team jumped from an AN-32 aircraft. Many young officers participated in the wonderful Para sport event. It was charismatic as if suddenly humanly figures had been given beautiful wings, which helped them enjoy the varsities of space and unending blue sky. The audience was full of applauds and cheers for the Para riders. Aircrafts flew at heights from 60m to 300m above ground level. The areas over which aircraft flew at low levels were Wazirpur Bridge-Karwalnagar-Afjalpur-Hindon, Shamli-Jiwana-Chandinagar-Hindon and Hapur-Philkua-Ghaziabad-Hindon.
The next ceremony – the ceremonial parade in the marching grounds – persuaded me to be more observant and watchful. The marchers were all looking extremely handsome in their blue dresses, which were a total contrast against the lush green backgrounds. The view was marvelous and helped me understand the significance of being an Indian. The Air Force Day Parade commenced with Ensign formation of three MI-17 helicopters in Vic formation trooping the Air Force Ensign at a height of 60 metres and speed of 80 kmph, closely followed by Vic formations of three each Bison (Mig-21), Vijay (Mig-23), Vajra (Mirage 2000) and Baaz (Mig-29) aircraft. This was followed by three Sukhois in Vic formation. The formation pulled up steeply in front of the dias carrying out upward and outward maneuvers. It was the farewell ceremony for Mig-23 (Vijay).

The parade was relaxed during the arrival of the three Defense Chiefs – General Deepak Kapoor (Army), Admiral Sureesh Mehta (Navy) and Air Chief Marshal Fali Homi Major (Air Force), who took over as the Chief of the Air Staff from Air Chief Marshal SP Tyagi on April 1, 2007. Besides them, the first Air Marshall Arjan Singh also made his presence felt. He was the only officer of the IAF to be promoted to Five Star rank (in 2002), equal to a Field Marshal. It is noteworthy that with the death of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw in June 2008, Arjan Singh is the only present living Indian military officer of Marshal rank.

The ceremonial parade also included several acrobatic performances involving guns, which enthralled the audience into giving a round of applause. The next maneuvers by the well-known `SARANG` helicopter display team, comprising four ALH helicopters, left the audience, including me, spellbound.

The grand finale was a scintillating formation of aerobatics ballet by the renowned Surya Kiran Aerobatics team (SKAT). They took off in front of the audience followed by a breath taking display of synchronised low level maneuvering in close formation with the vibrant colours of red, blue and green.

Talking to reporters after the grand ceremony, Air Force Chief Fali Homi Major said in response to a question whether the IAF has upgraded itself to the standards of other countries: “Indian Air Force has taken some very confident steps forward in becoming a true Aerospace Power. It has projected powers incredibly within its zone of influence with precision, speed and high intensity against a variety of objectives by seamlessly integrating all their assets to achieve very compressed decision cycles. The government has been extremely supportive in making this happen.”

Commenting on the internal security disturbance in the country, the Air Force chief said, “Today’s youth must be enigmatic and dynamic then only they can help in the nation’s growth. Progressive mind is necessary or it will only enlarge the rift between progressive and destructive minds.”

On the question of women officers in the Air Force, he said that his force is trying to provide special privileges to females but added that to inculcate the rules properly they needed time.

Celebrating the spirit of the Indian Army

This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave. ~Elmer Davis Truer words were never spoken! Patriotism, heroism, discipline, honour and courage are the words that best describe our Indian Army. Known for their valor and strength, the bravehearts of the Indian Army have attracted me since childhood. Their striking personality has always impressed me. These fine-looking youths after joining the Army inherit a glorious heritage and time honoured traditions. Once my uncle – who himself is a retired Major – quoted Benjamin Franklin to describe the spirit of the Indian Army, “Where liberty dwells, there is my country”. Though I was too young to grasp the full meaning of the words, I did get the gist of it. That was when, I think, I fell in love for the first time in my life. Yes, my first love was the Indian Army. I remember the days when, while crossing the Army cantonment area in my city with my papa on his scooter, I used to watch the Army men parading and exercising. The sight never failed to fascinate me. That love has still not faded; in fact, it has grown with the years. You won`t believe it, but I joined an Army school just to better understand the army life. That proximity, in its turn, nuanced not only my understanding of the Army, but of life itself. ``Be an Army man. Be a winner for life`` the words had a special meaning and inspiration for me. A job in the Army is one of the most difficult in the world. Their life is a struggle. Only a person imbued with passion, discipline and confidence can achieve their dignity and strength and earn the respect and admiration of his peers. They are the apple of every girl`s eye and an object of envy for all boys. That they also cut a striking figure is of course an added advantage! Till some time back I used to be amazed that there are people who can stay away from their family for long periods of time; though they are always aware that they can die any second. All my opinions went through a course correction when I had a small chat with a young lieutenant who was posted in Leh. To quote: `Everyone knows that life is a continuous journey. It does not end when I die. That is what I tell my parents and the ones who care for me, when they worry about me. But I also tell them that even if I were to die and be born again, in my next birth I will again join the Army and serve my nation. That’s my motto for all lives to come.” His words were an eye-opener for me and I realized why Army men are so different from others. Every Army man thinks that it`s his job to protect his motherland. Any enemy to the country is his foe and that gives him the strength to lead a bold and adventurous life. Just imagine if I lived with the possibility of dying the next day how would I behave. I would want to live every moment to the fullest and share the most with my loved ones. That is what they try to do. They often serve at places of extreme temperatures. They are posted at Siachen, which is one of the coldest places on the planet, and in the burning deserts of Rajasthan. They leave the comforts of their home to share a minimal life with their colleagues in bunkers. Roles for all Goals The Army has played a prominent role throughout last year. Whether we talk of Bihar floods or the Mumbai siege, they have done their best to combat the worst situations. They are the ones who stay awake so that we may sleep peacefully. Can we ever forget Sandeep Unnikrishnan and others who gave their lives for the cause of saving Mumbai? The Army was helpful even in resolving the recent episode of strikes by Oil PSUs. The Territorial Army monitored the events and maintained a balance especially regarding transportation and loading-unloading activities. Lifestyle Duties aside, their lifestyle is unusual. Smartly dressed, closely cropped haircut washboard belly and powerful physique makes them most charming and attractive. Adventure is certainly a way of life for them. Their eventful lives involve trekking, and all the daring games that we cannot even imagine in our dreams. Sometimes I just wish even I were a part of that life! “This world rests on the arms of heroes like a son on those of his sire”. These lines speak volumes about heroism and courage of the Indian Army. One who fails to acknowledge this spirit can never understand the nation to which he belongs. “On thy grave the rain shall fall from the eyes of a mighty nation” - Thomas William Parsons. Thus, on the occasion of 61st Indian Army Day celebrations I salute our country`s Army men. Jai Hind!

Requesting Mr Lalu- The Rail Minister

have been observing the degraded state of Indian Railways for quite some time. As a responsible citizen of India I could not resist the urge to pen down some of the many problems, which every common man faces while traveling in trains today. Therefore, in order to convey my feelings to you sir I am writing down this short letter. No doubt India fully deserves credit for running one of the biggest and busiest railway networks in world. You have helped it achieve many other milestones, but I would suggest that you also pay attention to the problems that the common public faces. Lalu Ji, everyone knows that you are a `son of the soil`. Hence, nobody could be a better judge of the sufferings of the masses than you. Here is a list of our many and routine troubles: Overcrowded- Indian Railways reminds one of our 1.1 billion population. The platforms are overcrowded with rag pickers, beggars, fruit walas, chai-walas and loiterers. Every time I visit a station, I feel completely lost. Maintenance & Cleanliness - Stations and platforms display a poor sense of hygiene and sanitation. One cannot avoid the sight of dirty tracks and unhygienic food available on the platforms, even if one tries. Stalls are so unclean. Even the pantry cars, which boasts of quality food is unhygienic. No water can be found in taps on trains and platforms. Never mind if the passenger dies of thirst. Both on platforms and in trains, green toilets are like a lost dream waiting to become true. Station architecture, platforms, trains design are just awful. Sometimes I feel at a complete loss for words. Compartments are squalid and worst of all is the lavatories, which are sordid beyond believe. Tobacco stains stain the platforms, bleary-eyed travelers’ sleep on the floor, and stink of garbage rises up from the tracks. Other infrastructures like Fire safety devices, fans and lights are also in bad shape and therefore must also be looked after. Upper and middle class waiting rooms are badly maintained with broken chairs.Therefore, waiting rooms with good furniture should be constructed and strict rules regarding removal of beggars must be followed. Trains should be equipped with modern resources and comply with all sanitation and hygiene requirements. Otherwise what is the purpose of huge gains (if I am not wrong Railways generated a profit of Rs 15000 Crores last year.)? In my opinion Laloo Ji the entire maintaining and cleaning job of platforms, tracks, toilets, rooms and waiting halls must be outsourced and given to private companies who will certainly beautify the stations for us. Hazard trains- Trains are seen as the cheapest medium of conveyance but while traveling in India your journey can not be all that easy. First of all the trains never arrive and depart on time. Sometimes the reason for this is the lack of double lines; for e.g. Farakkha express that runs between Malada town and Delhi is the single train that runs up and down. So it is destined to become late. It starts late, reaches late, and then goes to the shed for servicing and therefore again starts late. The condition of many other trains is similar. There are only 2-3 general compartments in any train while the tickets sold are far in excess of the available seats in these compartments; with the result that the sleeper boogie looks like a general compartment with people occupying every inch of space they could find. Passenger trains running between important stations are very few. for e.g. only 2-3 passenger trains run between Kanpur and Lucknow. Delhi itself is poorly connected with the neighbouring districts, because of a lack of passenger trains, this increases the pressure on the other general trains passing through that route and also gives rise to unwanted activities like pick-pocketing. Laloo Ji, some stations are not even connected, for e.g. Jammu is the last station in J&K and beyond that we have to look for other alternatives like bus and taxi which are comparatively costly. Security for trains & passengers - Mumbai`s 26/11 attack was one of worst terrorist attack on the nation. The terrorists intentionally targeted crowded CST station. After the attacks all sorts of promises were made to strengthen and beef up the security measures. Railways, which remains one of the most overcrowded places does not have adequate security apparatus. Railway guards many a time do not even check passengers’ baggage and when they do they are quite lax. CCTVs installed in the station are in a bad shape. To remind you Laloo Ji IR also remains the target of cross border and internal terrorist groups. After so many attacks including the Samjhauta express, there are still loopholes in security. In the end I would like to say that though Railways is for the common man it does not mean that the common man has to travel in such pathetic conditions. I know that we owe the responsibility of not spoiling the railway stations and trains but if somebody is not following rules then it becomes the responsibility of Railways to enforce discipline, which in India is certainly the last thing on any person’s priority list. Laloo Ji, the stringent measures and appropriate guidelines, which you have taken up, are definitely impressive but many more steps are needed to improve the pathetic conditions of the Indian Railways. I still remember clearly some of your very famous lines from the last years Rail Budget speech. Sab kah rahe hain humne gazab kaam kiya hai, Karoron ka munafa har ek shaam diya hai, Phal salon yeh ab dega, paudha jo lagaya hai,Sewa ka, samarpan ka, har farz nibhaya hai. (Everyone is saying we have done great work,Earning crores every day, This sapling that we have planted will bear fruits for years, We have fulfilled our duties to the full.) This Railways profit, which you have been showing for the last two years, must be carefully utilized for the improvement of infrastructure and development of your sector. Thus, I request you to take stringent action against the erring officers and staff incharge of trains. The Indian Railways needs to take this feedback very seriously since it is the lifeline of India and pride of the nation, and is sadly bringing shame and disgrace to its people. I would also like to mention that these complaints are not just mine but describe the anguish and distress of many. I hope that through your distinguished administrative skills you will be able to upgrade the worst conditions prevailing in your sector otherwise all would say that- Sab kah rahe hain aap gazab kaam kar gaye, Karoron ka munafa apne naam kar gaye. (Every one is saying you have done great work You have looted the crores (the railways earned) Yours truly Responsible citizen

Kerala nun's journey to 'Sainthood'

Sister Alphonsa is the first woman and only the second Christian from India to be Canonised. Gonsalo Garcia who was canonised in 1862, was partly Indian. He was from Vasai, near Mumbai, and it is believed that he was crucified in Nagasaki in 1597. Beatified in 1986, Sister Alphonsa’s journey to sainthood reached its final stages more than two decades later when, in June 2007, Pope Benedict XVI authorised her Canonisation after he approved a miracle attributed to her on May 11, 1999. The miracle was the healing of a one-year-old boy, Jinil, who could not walk because of a disability. Jinil began walking the very day his parents took him to the Sister's tomb for prayers. This is truly phenomenal.Keeping the above piece of news in my mind I ask myself, as to what I understand by Christianity and Divinity? The best answer, which I can imagine, is that it’s a relationship of our soul with God who, in the name of Jesus Christ, has always forgiven our sins. Christianity in its very essence teaches us the quickest way to reach Him, to understand his preaching, to follow his message and ultimately to pardon the sins of others. This stands true for Sister Alphonsa of Bharananganam, Blessed Alphonsa was born on August 19, 1910 as the fourth child of Muttathupadath Ouseph and Mariam at Kudamaloor, Changanacherry in the district of Kotayyam, Kerala. She lost her mother when she was only three months old. Her mother’s sister brought her up as a beautiful young lady and wanted her to marry in a well to do family. However, Alphonsa wanted to dedicate her entire life to Jesus Christ like Little Therese. In order to dedicate her entire life to the Lord she jumped into the pit used for burning chaff during the harvest season in the hope of deforming her body so that no suitor would marry her. Nevertheless, her efforts were in vain, as she survived with burns all over her body. It took nearly 90 days to get the burns healed. Later she joined the Franciscan Clarist Convent at Bharananganam on 2 August 1928 and received the name of Alphonsa. Even though her poor health was a great block to her progress in religious life, she continued her journey of commitment and dedication. Finally, after many ordeals, she took her perpetual vows on August 12, 1936. She devoted her entire life to the Lord. In her words, “My every suffering is an offer of a beautiful flower in the wounds of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.” At the end of her life, she was in great pain and frailty of the body, but in the midst of the unbearable pain, she committed her soul to the heavenly one reciting the names of Jesus, Mary and Joseph on July 28, 1946. After forty years, on February 8, 1986, Pope John Paul II beatified her. On Friday, June 1, 2007, Pope Benedict XVI signed the decree approving the miracle that took place through the intercession of Blessed Alphonsa, thus paving her way for canonisation. However, there is enough questioning as to why Mother Teresa is not considered for this declaration but the church has its own reasoning and logic behind the issue. The miracle that put on fast track the process of Mother Teresa's sainthood was reported in a village in South Dinajpur district of West Bengal. A tribal woman Monica Besra's testimony of a miraculous cure from an abdominal tumor through Mother Teresa's intercession paved the way for the Mother's beatification. However, her Sainthood lies a step away as the church requires at least two miracles for a person to be canonised. One needs to first understand the process by which a Catholic reaches the stage of Canonisation to understand the delay in Mother’s ‘sainthood’. “Canonisation is a solemn declaration by the Pope that a certain person has, in faithfulness to the grace of God, practiced heroic virtue and is therefore proposed as a model and intercessor for the whole Catholic Church.” In simple words, it is a declaration that a particular person due to his holy deeds and miraculous ways has been given the designation of a saint. A saint is one to whom we pray for our lucks and failures and we believe that he/she is a mediator between the Holy One and us. Originally, individuals were recognised as saints without any formal process, as happened, for instance, in the case of Saint Peter, Virgin Mary and Joan of Arch. How does the canonisation process begin? It begins spontaneously as people simply recognise that someone is a very holy person, and they begin to feel that the person is obtaining favors from God for them. Then someone would approach their local bishop and will provide further information about this person. If the bishop is convinced, he will send a report on the person to the Congregation for Causes of Saints at the Vatican. Earlier only martyrs were honored and recommended as models of virtue and mediators. Gradually, the members of the church also recognised other persons. In the next step the local bishops would decide to insert the names of these holy persons into the liturgy of the mass. Slowly, bishops began to defer to the Pope, the Bishop of Rome. It was in the year 993 that for the first time a pope formally canonised someone in the way that we know it today. That was when Pope John XV canonised St. Ulric of Augsburg, who had practiced heroic charity for persons in great need. Next stage is that of terming him/her "Venerable". The Congregation researches the life and virtue as well as the writings, of this candidate. If the Congregation recommends the cause of this candidate, and the Pope accepts this recommendation, this person receives the formal title of "Venerable."Then comes the Blessed phase where the apostolic process continues with still more scrutiny of the life and virtues of the holy person. Witnesses are called in and have to swear testimonies. A "Promotor of the Cause" is appointed, who searches out possible objections. Ordinarily, two cures obtained through the candidate's prayer and declared by medical experts, which are beyond natural causes are considered for the conclusion of this process. The "Venerable" candidate is then declared "Blessed" by the Pope in a solemn ceremony, and recommended for imitation and special liturgical honor. The final step is terming a person "Saint" i.e. Canonisation, which is the ultimate step, which may follow beatification quickly, or after many years, even centuries, depending upon the case and the wish of the Pope. Usually another miracle through the holy person's intercession is required. Special procedures are followed before the final celebration of canonization. When all has been satisfactorily completed, the Pope verdicts that the whole Church is to honor and imitate this person, and inserts the person's name into the canon of the Mass during the holy ceremony of canonisation. The person will now be publicly honored with the title "Saint".

The flute-playing God's many names

The legend goes that the eighth child born to Devaki was an incarnation of Lord Vishnu who took the human form in order to mitigate earth from the demon Kings especially Kansa. Sri Krishna ended people`s sufferings by killing Kansa and was known as Kamsarave. But like Vishnu, Krishna has a thousand names and more!

Here is a list of a few names- each after a fascinating story related to Him.

Sri Krishna: Acharya Garga, the family priest of Yadavs, named the Lord. He was named Krishna because of his dark complexion. His other popular names were Shyam, Shyamsundar i.e. the dark complexion lord. He was also called Yadavendra as he was born in a Yadav family.

Makhan Chor: Krishna was quite mischievous in his early years. He loved eating Makhan and therefore stole it, hence the name.

Bal Gopal: Bal means a small child who attracts all while Gopal is used for the one who plays with cowherds and has a pleasant nature. Once when all the cows of Gokul were lost, he brought them back safely to their shades by playing his magical flute. Thus after the incident villagers started calling him Gopal i.e. the protector of cows. He is also referred to as Govinda i.e. Lord of cows. The name is also symbolic for 'one who controls senses'.

Putana Jivit Haraya: Putana was a demoness who was sent by Kansa to kill Bal Krishna. She tried to feed him her poisonous milk but Krishna ultimately destroyed her.

Gopesh: In his teens Krishna used to visit Vrindavan in order to meet Radha. There he used to involve in divine pleasure making that is Rasaleela- hence being called the Lord of Gopas and Gopis. He was also called Baanke-Bihari i.e. the youthful and handsome God who enjoys life. He was also popular by the name of Bihari as he used to meet Radha in the groves of Vrindavan. His other popular name was Kunjbihari i.e. the one who roams in gardens.

Mohan: Krishna was very handsome and attractive. Hence he was called Mohan that is the one who attracts others easily.

Murali, Muralidhar, Muralimanohar: Krishna was a wonderful flute player. He never played his flute again after giving it to Radha while he was on his way to Mathura to avenge Kansa.

Devkinandan: Krishna was the biological son of Devaki therefore he was called by her mother`s name. Similarly he was also called Yashodanandan i.e. son of mother Yashoda who, though did not bear him, nurtured him.

Vasudev: Vasudev was the biological father of Krishna who took infant Krishna away from Kansa by crossing Yamuna to the house of Nand. The people of Nand and Braj also knew him as Nandgopal and Nandraja i.e. the one bringing joy.

Giridhari: Krishna freed the people of Gokul from age-old ritual of worshipping Indra-the God of rain. In response Indra got angry and destroyed the village making all villagers homeless. Then Krishna lifted Govardhan hill on his mini finger and saved them. Thus he was called Giridhari i.e. the one who lifted Giri or hill.

Mathuranath, Mathuranaresh: Sri Krishna was born in Mathura though due to circumstances he was brought up in Gokul. Thus after the death of King Kansa he crowned his Maternal Grandfather as the King of Mathura. He later became the King of Dwarika and was also called Dwarakadheesh or Dwarikapati.

Partha Sarthi: At the time of Mahabharata, Krishna played a diplomat and gave his whole army to the Kauravas while preffering to be the charioteer of Arjuna. Arjuna was the Parthi while Krishna was the Saarthi.

Mayur: Mayur stands for peacock. Sri Krishna was always seen wearing a peacock-feathered crust.

Sudarshana: It originally means a lord who has a mystic appeal and is simultaneously striking and handsome.

Chakradhar, Chakrapani: One who carries Sudarshan Chakra.

Hari: Hari stands for the lord of nature who desires to enjoy the serene beauty of nature.

Sarvapalaka: It stands for the protector of all. He is also known as Jagannath i.e. Lord of the whole world

Madhav: He is also known as husband of goddess of fortune Sri Laxmi

Shri Krishna—Youth Icon

Introduction-- Krishna an inspiration

`Krishna` is divided into two syllables `krish` and `na`. `Krish `means` one who has appeared on Earth to mitigate the burden of demoniac kings, and who attracts the minds of all living entities`. `Na` means `the supreme transcendental pleasure`. These two syllables combine to become the name `Krishna`.

Shri Krishna, the flute player has been the source of inspiration for many through ages – the perfect youth icon. He is like the blossom of spring that keeps returning with every season. Whenever we think of him, the picture, which emerges is that of a dark complexioned, attractive man who is ready to acquire anything through `Saama, Daama, Dand, Bhed` and yet remain free of all vices. He is one of the most revered Gods of Hindu mythologies.

The master of all arts, he is a true leader having that rare mystic appeal and beauty, which is hard to resist. He continues to rule our hearts and actions. We know Lord Krishna by many names but the most popular ones are Balgopal, Makhan Chor, Govinda, Devkinandan, Murali, Morari, Girdhari, Dwarakadhish and Parthisartha. Traits and character like him are hard to find in any individual. The younger generation admires him and treasures his principles.

Who was Krishna as a youth?

Shri Krishna is like the morning mist that brings tranquillity and novelty with itself. He personifies the eternal spring of youth. Krishna while enacting his leela on earth was a man of his word. He went through sufferings, pain, revenge, ambition, achievements, love, marriage, politics, diplomacy and finally submission to death, which is very similar to the life of the youth today. But what made his life divine was that he remained a ‘Karmayogi’, performing actions yet remaining free from them. He attained a human body, to show humans that they can use their body to discover spirituality and the Absolute truth. He took incarnation to kill Kansa. His childhood was beautiful and mischievous like that of any common child. He was a Makhan Chor and enjoyed the nature and colours of all festivals and arts. His love play with ‘Gopis’ (milkmaids) and ‘Gopas’ finally ending in Rasaleela is something every teen shares with their lovers. His love for Radha was eternal and an ideal example for all of us. Because of his pragmatic approach, he is loved, followed and worshipped.

Krishna inspires youth to be determined, courageous, articulate and diplomatic. He was an able administrator, strategy maker, philosopher, and above all a politician. Various instances of his life, which highlight these aspects are-

Youthfulness (Naughty at young age, then playing and enjoying with Gopas and Gopis as well the epic of love and longing in Rasaleela)
Joyful (Enjoying all colours of festivals and arts)
Daring (Killed Kansa and evil powers)
Rebellious against old rituals, customs (Stopped villagers from worshipping Indra for rain and lifted Govardhana hill)
Far Sighted (Advised Yudhishthir and other Pandavas for the right strategies to win the battle of Mahabharata)
Firm and Determined (Achieved all what he wanted at any cost)
Good Politician and Diplomat (Always was a well wisher of Pandavas yet a friend of Kauravas)
Wise Strategy Maker (Was the strategy maker for Pandavas in Kurukshetra)
Philosopher (Revealed Gita to Arjuna which contains the meaning of life when he was in dilemma)
Good Friend (Helped each of his friend either it was Sudama or Arjuna )
Learned (Well versed in Arts and Shastras)
Well Mannered and polite (Treated everyone as equal)
Good Administrator (Dwarka is told to be one of the best states that ever existed)
Very Practical Approach (Used Saama-Daama-Dand-Bhed as essential)

What today`s youth desire

Today`s youth is competitive, fast and enterprising; in brief, they are jack of all trade. They want to obtain things at any rate. If they set eyes on anything, they want to acquire it even if the path followed is justified or not. Pleasure is yet another vital aspect of their life. They never question morality and live in relationships, in fact, `we need to have an understanding before we decide to live together forever` is their logical response. They are assertive in their demands. They dare to go to any extent to get what they desire and are manipulative, intelligent and shrewd. However, they crave for art and culture too. In such a scenario, where the Youth is swinging between desire and peace, Krishna’s message in the form of Bhagvad Gita comes to rescue. The divine concept of ‘Karmayoga’ (the path of selfless action and selfless service) and the ‘Stitha-Pragya’ (a person of unwavering intellect) acts as an anchor and ideal for the youth.

Krishna-In our hearts forever

Krishna`s message is like an eternal flower that spreads its fragrance across all generations. He was a mentor, dictator, politician and a diplomat – traits that inspires every one. He represents wealth, strength, beauty, knowledge, and renunciation in all its glory. There is no doubt that he was a God but even after being the divine, he took birth to show the limitless possibilities that exists in human beings. His determination, courage and endeavours truly motivate the youth.

Kishore – Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna

Versatile singer and a man of different moods Kishore Kumar or otherwise called `Kishor Da` would have celebrated his 79th birthday today. An actor, playback singer and comedian Kishore Kumar still reign the industry`s heart and also those who still cherish his melodious voice. His voice was like a fresh air for all those who understood his vivacious creations. His artistic voice was like a mystic appeal that generated scores of waves for those interested in music and genuineness. The artist had always delivered his best be it his musical display or his artistic capabilities. He was surely a man who was ahead of his time.

He was born in Khandwa (MP), his father Kunjalal Ganguli was a pleader, an advocate and mother Gouri Devi was a simple housewife who belonged to a wealthy family.

His was the voice that sang unforgettable numbers like the joyous 'Paanch rupaiya baara aana', the soulful 'Zindagi ka safar', the romantic 'Pal, pal dil ke pas' and the foot tapping 'Eena meena deeka' that has people doing the twist even 50 years later. Mere Sapno Ki Rani and Roop Tera Mastana, which became smash hits are one of many which we all humm in our private moments. U can easily check his remix songs on any of the charts. Such was his profoundness for music that the scores are still relishable by the younger generation. Once music director Anu Malik regarded him by saying, "One can only copy him, none can innovate like him,"

However, to call Kishore Kumar only a singer would be underestimating his talent. He was a multi-faceted personality who was at once a lyricist, composer, producer, director, screenwriter and scriptwriter. And in all these areas he has left his unique mark. He is an idle for all the music directors in our country today.

Noticeable fact: Anand originally was supposed to star Kishore Kumar and Mehmood but due to some misunderstandings between him and Hrishikesh Mukherjee due to which the idea was dropped and new stars Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan were casted.

Etymology

He has sung in many languages including Marathi, Assamese, Gujarati, Kannada, Bhojpuri, Malayalam and Oriya.
He holds the record for most number of Filmfare Awards won for Best Male Playback Singer.
His first film as an actor was Shikari (1946), first song Marne ki duayen kyon mangu for the film Ziddi (1948
First filmfare as Male playback singer for Roop Tera Mastana.
He was a genius when it came to singing be it roop tera mastana, Humein aur jeene ki, Saagar Kinare or the energetic Khaike Paan Banaras Wala

And as one song sung by him, states itself….
Chalte Chalte mere ye geet yaad rakhna……. Kabhi alvida na kehna-kabhi alvida na kehna
Kishore Kumar We wish you a Very Happy Birthday You live forever with us in your music..

Ila Arun - the enchantress of contemporary Indian music

The entire nation is dancing to the beat of `Ringa Ringa`, one of the songs of eight Oscars winner, 'Slumdog Millionaire'. One such person without whom this song couldn`t have left its impact worldwide is the vibrant and ethnic Ila Arun who is one of the reigning ladies of the music industry. Her voice complements the playful charm of Geeta Dutt and the resonating cadence of Shamshad Begham along with the simplicity and ethnicity of Rajasthani folk music. Ila Arun is unquestionably the undisputed queen of contemporary Indian folk-pop music.
Musical achievementsI am sure nobody would have forgotten the nostalgic `Mornee Baga mein bole adhii raat ko` from Lamhe and the mischievous `Choli ke peechey kya hai` from `Khalnayak`.She has sung in more than 50 films. Her songs made her a favourite of music lovers all over the world. In addition to being a singer, she is a composer, poet, actress, playwright, and dancer. She has also composed lyrics for 4 films including ‘Auzaar’ that was a huge hit during the period and has directed the music for 3 films. Her histrionic talents are very impressive. Last year Ila ruled the music and film industry. 2008 has put several glories and added famous works to her basket. Slumdog`s Ringa Ringa gave us once more the blend of romance and folk i.e. the combination of Alka Yagnik and Ila Arun who experimented together after the sultry and vivacious `Choli K Peeche Kya Hai`. She also lent her voice to the anthem `Halla Bol` of the celebrated IPL team Rajasthan Royals.Acting skillsShe has written the script of several plays and TV serials. She has acted in about 25 films. She also proved her acting skills recently in Ashutosh Gowarikar`s `Jodhaa-Akbar`, where she played Akbar’s foster mother. Her typical rural woman role in Welcome to Sujjanpur` also won a round of applause. Moreover, she has also played a sensitive mother in ‘China Gate’.She has acted in lead roles in famous serials such as Kabir, Tamas, Discovery of India, etc. She has conceptualised, written, anchored, and was the main actress in one of India`s first sit-coms on Satellite TV for Jaipur Doordarshan. AwardsIla is mysterious, vibrant, ethnic and popular both with younger hearts and the older generations. She has won numerous prestigious awards, in particular, the Filmfare Best Singer Award in 1993 and the Indian Music Industries` first ‘Diva’ award for Best Female Folk/Pop Singer in 1994. 2008 gave her the award for best negative role (women) in Jodhaa Akbar.Reality showsIla Arun is no stranger to reality shows. After Fame Gurukul we saw her again as a mentor for the famous musical show `Junoon Kuch kar Dikhana hai`, on NDTV Imagine which did not see a battle between mentors but between music genres- Sufi, folk and filmi. Quite naturally, she was the mentor of the folk gharana `Maati Ke Laal`. “I always like to do things emotionally close to my heart and personality. I’ve always been associated closely with folk and whatever I am today is because of folk music. I love the simplicity, rawness and rhythm of folk music,” said Ila, as an answer to her being the mentor for the genre.The singer turned folk-pop into a craze and her voice has the quality that rivets the young as well as the old. In Fame Gurukul, a TV show, she diligently trained the contestants as the headmistress of the Fame Gurukul school, where the contestants were trained for reality singing. Theatre She also leads a theatre troupe that mostly performs on women-centric themes. Once in the Prithvi Theatre Festival, her troupe performed a play in which she played Sita, who questions Rama`s credentials as a husband. And Rama comes across as a man caught in a political cobweb. Early beginning This lady with husky voice studied in Maharani Girls College in Jaipur. She did her BA in Music, and a Post Graduate Course in Acting at the National School of Drama in New Delhi. Ila’s full name is Ila Arun Bajpai. She comes from Rajasthan but presently lives in Mumbai. She also has a charming family. Her husband Arun Bajpai is in Merchant Navy and an accomplished videographer. According to Ila, he is her constant source of support and inspiration. Her career started with her song for all India radio for which she was paid only Rs 5. Mahesh Bhatt, the famous film director, was the first to notice her voice and introduced her to the film world through the film ‘Aashiana’. Since then, she has never looked back. Woman of substanceShe is a lady who wants to shun limelight, a singer, whose talent has earned her the reputation of an excellent composer, poet, actor and dancer. The actor has always been known for her flamboyant style off screen with multi-layered designer bindis and loads of costume jewellery. She is certainly a woman of substance. Although being widely acclaimed and awarded with the Filmfare Award for the Best Female Singer and Indian Music Industries Best Diva Award, she has not ignored her role of a responsible mother. Ila has diligently groomed daughter Ishita as a singer. She also works to patronize Indian culture. She took up the cause of propagating Indian culture with over 200 live shows across Europe and India with the Indian Council for Cultural Research (ICCR). Her reason of success is her single minded devotion towards music. On confronting trouble, she has always emerged from her own ashes just like the Phoenix. After being so successful, she suddenly slipped away from limelight. But what led to her disappearance from the scene after reaching the pinnacle of mass popularity with songs like `Morni` (in Lamhe) and `Choli Ke Peeche` (in Khalnayak)? The answer to this is simple. Vulgar remixes and rampant music piracy-forced Ila into long hibernation but the devoted singer could never resist the fervent urge to sing. Ila blends the rural and the urban traditions of India. She presents an evocative pictorial view of the different aspects of India; its moods and seasons, fairs and festivals, and the sensuousness of the monsoons. Her songs have an unmistakable depiction of Rajasthan in its full glory – the romance and expanse of the desert, the beauty and elegance of palace life, and the rusticity of the gypsies.

Technology- Embracing world in arms

Bill Gates once rightly said, `Technology makes it possible for people to gain control over everything, as science today, is technology tomorrow`.

Technology has revolutionized the world. Whether we talk of handy mobile sets, smart PC`s or simple gadgets used in our daily routines, technology has transformed the way we think, work, contribute and achieve.

Imagine you are having a chat with your friends suddenly you receive a picture email in your phone from your mother of some occasion she last attended. Or another time suppose you are far away from your office and all of a sudden you get to know about this important meeting with your VIP delegates, no worries you can go for a video-conferencing on your slender notebook.

With so many gizmos and gadgets forming part of your curricular activities life has become so convenient, so handy, and so trouble-free as if the whole world has come into your pockets and all the problems could be effectively solved with just the click of a mouse. The mouse, which turned 40 this year. Technology has transformed our lives in a manner, we never imagined before. Be it our kitchen or our bedroom technology can be credited with the role of changing our lives tremendously.

Let`s give a take at the latest inventions in tech, net world:

3G enters India with MTNL- Much awaited 3G services finally saw the light of the day as PSU, MTNL launched the services in Delhi. PM Manmohan Singh inaugurated the services by making a video call. The service clubbed as ‘Jadoo’ will initially be on offer in Delhi to be followed by Mumbai launch. Motorola is the technology partner for MTNL in this initiative.

With 3G, the next-generation mobile service launched in Delhi, your handset becomes an all-purpose device. Here’s what all you can do and what it offers. * Browse Internet and send, receive large emails including graphics. 3G also enables faster movie downloads. * Make video calls and videoconference (possible on 3G to 3G calls). * Get streaming TV on phone screen with pause, record features. MTNL’s IPTV network currently offers 4 channels, will expand to 10 channels in 10 days and 40 in 2-3 weeks.
* Remote access footage from CCTV (could also help police and in traffic management). * Play interactive games on Net sites, access bank accounts and shop online. * Get high-speed Web navigation, maps. * 3G services give mobile users high-quality voice transmission and access to high-end data applications on their mobile phones. 2G vs 3G 3G represents the next step in the evolution of mobile telephony, offering markedly greater capacity and efficiency than the current 2G systems. While 2G is focused on voice, 3G supports high-speed data of at least 144 kbps enabling broadband Internet access on the mobile, and "triple play" features like mobile TV and converged communication services.

Mobile phones

With human lifestyle increasingly getting advanced, mobiles have assumed a prominent place in society than it had in the yesteryears. Today mobile is everything for everyone. Be it use for e-mails, music, photography or as a style icon, mobile has become the cherry of all eyes. There are several models, which are rocking but here we will discuss the key ones, which have patronized the technical world this year.

HTC Touch Diamond-I preferably prefer this black wizard. Available in the shades of grey and black it composes the best features. It`s a gadget that gives you three in one features i.e. of mobile, i-pod and digicam. This is seriously one gadget that can rule the whole world. Available at a price of nearly Rs 28,000 it can certainly be called a common man`s choice.

Apple i-phone- The much-hyped Apple i-phone was launched last year. However, its 3G version came up in the market this year in July in nearly 70 countries. This high-tech mobile supports several features. You can make a call by tapping a name or send a text with the intelligent keyboard. Simultaneously you can enjoy music and video on a widescreen display and shop for music with a tap. You can also browse the web, get HTML email, and find yourself with GPS maps.

Nokia N-series- Nokia N96 is the other most advanced phone in the run. It distinguishes itself on the basis of web browsing techniques as well as Wi-Fi smooth connectivity. Coming with the brand it suits those who have a fetish for the mobile`s oldest brand Nokia.

Others- Besides these best selling mobile phones we have several others in the row like Sony Erricsson`s Xperia, Samsung Omnia and Samsung`s i780 etc.

Estonia to vote by mobile phones in 2011- Parliament has approved a law making Estonia the first country to allow voting by mobile phone. Lawmakers approved a measure Thursday allowing citizens to vote by mobile phone in the next parliamentary elections in 2011. Estonians were allowed to cast Internet ballots in last year's parliamentary vote. The mobile-voting system, which has already been tested, requires that voters obtain free, authorized chips for their phones, said Raul Kaidro, spokesman of the SK Certification Center, which issues personal ID cards in Estonia. The chip will verify the voter's identity and authorize participation in the electronic voting system, he said.

Laptops and notebooks

Expensive hardware, sophisticated technology and one in all that surely defines Apple `s MacBook MB466LL/A launched in October. Available at a price of Rs 80,000 it gives a remarkable performance. It offers enhanced 3D gaming and video experience without compromising on the battery. Nvidia Ge Force 9400 graphics card offers 5 times better performance. It`s make-up is quite eco-friendly. New battery indicator key has been added. Dell has also launched its stylish, vibrant and colourful `Inspiron` available at a price of Rs 42,900. It supports Intel Core 2Duo Processor T5800.

World`s first eco computer- The world's first biodegradable computer, the iameco, has been manufactured in Dublin from bio-degradable wood panels made from waste products in the lumber and pulp industry. During a visit to the company by Ireland's Minister for Science and Innovation, Jimmy Devins, the inventors of iameco, MicroPro Computers Ltd, said they could implant the seeds of native-tree species into the wood panels.

LCDs and Plasmas

After Bollywood, size zero has entered techno world too. Sleek, slim and stylish are the `S` role models of the younger generation while selecting TV sets for their living rooms. Television sets are getting slender nowadays. The thinnest LCD TV in the world is of 38.1 mm of Hitachi UT42MX700A, a tenth of the slimmest Cathode Ray Tube (CRT). Gone are the days when 21 inches and 29 inches TV sets were in fashion. Now with the increased standard of livings of the younger generation people want to settle down with the latest Plasma and LCD screens in their halls. Samsung CS29A730EL ultra slim fit, SAMSUNG SERIES 6 LA40A650A1 are other models most acclaimed in the market.



Virtual games

Gaming is catching in India though it is yet to become the craze than it is overseas. In India the only option for buying these games is by using a credit card and buying online. Most of them are available at an amount of Rs 120-160, which is an attractive amount considering the amount of entertainment and fun you, get from them. The various games gaining popularity in India are in sports- FIFA, 09, Real Football, Pro Evolution Soccer, Wimbledon 2008, Michael Vaughan Cricket ad Playman Summer Games. While others include Rally Master, Prince of Persia, Assasin`s Creed etc. In India people basically like to play 3 types of games- first Arcade Games i.e. video games, second computer games and third consoles i.e. realistic action and digital audio on machines. Among the major players in India Zapak has understood the strategy to win his customers. Besides it Xbox and PlayStation continues to hog limelight.

Japan unveils solar powered ship- The world's first large ship partially using solar power for engine-related devices was unveiled today in the western Japanese port city of Kobe, with a ceremony to turn on the flow of energy from solar panels installed on the vessel's deck. The ceremony for the Auriga Leader, a car freighter developed jointly by Nippon Yusen KK and Nippon Oil Corp in an effort to reduce carbon dioxide emissions through the use of solar energy, was held at a shipyard of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd.

New hydrogen-powered racing car aims to be world's fastest- Researchers have unveiled the first hydrogen-powered racing car that demonstrates the incredible possibilities of hydrogen as the clean, renewable fuel of the future. The car will be bidding for the title of world's fastest hydrogen-powered racer when it attempts in early 2009 in Germany to break the Guinness World Records' mark for speed by a vehicle of its class. Powered by an internal combustion motorcycle engine that has been modified to run on hydrogen, the racing car is expected to reach speeds of up to 170 kmph in its world record bid, according to a statement of the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT).

Net news

Mouse completes 40 yrs on Dec 2

One computer device could be called as being most "in touch" with humans - the mouse, which celebrates it's 40th birthday on Dec 2. The first computer mouse, developed four decades ago, was a little wooden box with a single red button on top and a wire hanging from the back, because of which it was likened to a rodent. And while computers have transformed from big white boxes to cool flat screens and laptops, the mouse has stayed the same. Its designer, Douglas Engelbart, is not a rich man as he never got any royalties because the patent expired before the mouse became a must-have.

India ranks 4th in world with 81 mn users

India has been ranked fourth among the top 10 nations in the world with 81 million internet users even as the world aggregate touched 134,85,72,040 by the end of 2007. United States leads the chart with 220 million Internet users followed by China (210 million) and Japan (88.1 million).

Intel launches fastest processor

Chip giant Intel Corp on Tuesday launched its most advanced desktop processor 'Intel Core i7' in India. The Core i7 processor is the first member of a new family of Nehalem processor designs and is the most sophisticated ever built, with new technologies that boost performance on demand and maximise data throughput. The processor speeds video editing, immersive games and other popular internet and computer activities by up to 40 percent without increasing power consumption.

Google Chrome

Google says Chrome is faster, more secure and easier to use than any other Web browser, especially Microsoft's Internet Explorer. So, let's say you've been driving around in the same old Chevy for years. It gets OK gas mileage, but it's not that fast. Now, someone has come out with a sleek hybrid that gets great mileage and is agile on the road. That's how I can best describe Google Chrome.

Other browsers would immediately freeze up every open tab, but in Google's browser each tab acts like it has its own engine. If one Web application is consuming a lot of your computer's resources, the rest of the apps can still act very responsively.

No matter how fast or how much simpler Google's Chrome may be, however, it is still going to have a hard time grabbing market from Microsoft's Internet Explorer, which has around 70 percent of people online and comes pre-installed on most PCs.

Google might be able to steer people to its browser by getting them there through its popular search engine.




Big Bang Machine which didn’t destroy the Earth

This year, fear grasped the world with the news of the scientific experiment of Hadron Collider taking place, as many argued that it might release particles called “strangelets,” which could gobble the globe. The ‘Big Bang’ experiment – which many said, including some scientists, would result in the end of the world did succeeded initially but ultimately failed.

The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is the world's largest and highest-energy particle accelerator, intended to collide opposing beams of protons or lead ions, each moving at approximately 99.999999% of the speed of light.
The Large Hadron Collider was built by the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) with the intention of testing various predictions of high-energy physics. It also has Indian imprint, with the instrument on which the Collider is put, being made in India.

Those afraid of the experiment believe it may lead to the creation of a black hole – an intense gravitational field sucking in everything including light. According to Rossler, the experiment might lead to a scenario where the Earth will be sucked inside out “within four years of a mini-black hole forming”.
On 10 September 2008, the proton beams were successfully circulated in the main ring of the LHC for the first time. On 19 September 2008, the operations were halted due to a serious fault between two superconducting bending magnets. Due to the resulting damage, the LHC will not be operational again until summer 2009. There were also reports of protesters hacking the system.
Controversy

This controversy was created when physicist Walter Wagner wrote a letter to Scientific American, asking whether the creation of a quark-gluon plasma might create a globe-gobbling black hole. In his answer to Wagner’s letter, Frank Wilczek of Princeton’s Institute for Advanced Study referred to a speculative scenario involving something called “strangelets.”

Strangelets would contain “strange” quarks, which are somewhat heavier and less understood than the garden-variety “up” and “down” quarks that make up ordinary protons and neutrons. If a series of highly unlikely conditions apply, strangelets could in theory start consuming ordinary matter, turning the entire Earth into a sphere of strangeness. This scenario captured the attention of physicists and the press jumping to conclusions and calling the whole experiment dangerous like “Big Bang Machine Could Destroy Earth.”

The Experiment
What the experiment is all about: In a giant machine called the Large Hadron Collider at the CERN research centre straddling the Franco-Swiss border, the physicists will smash particles together to create, on a small-scale, re-enactments of the event that started up the cosmos.
The LHC is using giant magnets housed in cathedral-size caverns to fire beams of energy particles around a 27 km (17 mile) tunnel where they will collide at close to the speed of light.
Scientists at CERN, the 54-year-old European Organisation for Nuclear Research, close to the foothills of the French Jura mountains, will pursue concepts such as "dark matter", "dark energy", extra dimensions and, most of all, the "Higgs Boson" believed to have made it all possible.
Doomsday failed

The Large Hadron Collider tested doomsday again on Sep 11 as a 30-ton transformer, which is used to power coolants in the 17-mile underground, vacuum-sealed loop in the world's most powerful particle accelerator, failed on Sept. 11. Because of the failure, the collider switched off the main cryogenic compressors for two sectors of the machine.


Apple i-Phone 3G

The much-hyped Apple i-Phone was launched last year. However, its 3G version came up in the market this year in July in nearly 70 countries. This high-tech mobile supports several features. You can make a call by tapping a name or send a text with the intelligent keyboard. Simultaneously you can enjoy music and video on a widescreen display and shop for music with a tap. You can also browse the web, get HTML email, and find yourself with GPS maps.

Features:

3G Speed- You can surf the web and download email over fast 3G cellular networks. Browse games and applications, then download and install them directly onto your iPhone.

Maps with GPS- Find your location, get directions, and track progress along your route.

i-Phone in Enterprise- Get push email, calendar, and contacts with Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync.

This was the most hyped cell phone of the year though it could not match the respective standards in India due to basic requirements problems like high price and hefty tariff problems. Other problems include its mini 2MP camera. Even the battery is non-attachable. Certainly, these features were unable to impress the tech savy of India and therefore it soon found its way out of the market. Even British i-Phone users were facing a tough time using the new voice recognition software, because it did not understand British accents.






Rumbling Giants: Google, Yahoo and Microsoft


Resignation of Bill Gates

Bill Gates let his emotions get the better of him as he announced his pending resignation in a press conference in July 2008. Gates has made a transition from his day-to-day role as Chief Software Architect and Chairman of Microsoft to just being the Chairman. Chief Technical Officer Ray Ozzie immediately assumed the title of Chief Software Architect and began working side by side with Gates on all technical architecture and product oversight responsibilities while Chief Technical Officer Craig Mundie took the new title of Chief Research and Strategy Officer. In July 2008, Gates switched to working part-time for Microsoft and full-time for the health-and-education foundation he founded with his wife, Melinda.


Yahoo’s Microsoft bid

Microsoft withdrew their offer to acquire Yahoo after talks between the two companies and their advisors broke down after a failure to come to agreement on price and other terms.

A final meeting occurred at Microsoft headquarters in Redmond, between Jerry Yang and David Filo from Yahoo, and Kevin Johnson and Steve Ballmer from Microsoft. At that meeting, Yahoo said the lowest price they could accept was $37/share. Microsoft reportedly went as high as $33/share. Yang and Filo returned to California shortly after the meeting, and Yang then had a subsequent phone conversation with Ballmer. At that very time Ballmer withdrew the offer.

Ballmer had even threatened to takeover the company by share purchase. Yahoo, after much thinking, rejected Microsoft's multibillion-dollar buyout offer, saying that it undervalued the company.

Google, Yahoo strike ad deal

The non-exclusive deal united the online advertising businesses of Google and Yahoo and came as a setback to Microsoft, which tried hard to acquire all or part of Yahoo to strengthen its own online business and compete better with Google.

Yahoo expects the deal to generate $250 million to $450 million in operating cash flow during the first 12 months, and that it represents an annual revenue opportunity for Yahoo of $800 million. The deal was announced after Yahoo said earlier that it had ended its talks with Microsoft over a possible investment by the software giant.

Yahoo said it ended the talks because Microsoft was interested only in acquiring Yahoo's search business, not the entire company.

Yahoo and Google had been in talks over a potential deal for months. It was seen as a way for Yahoo to strengthen its advertising business and alleviate the pressure to be acquired by Microsoft. Microsoft had cited any deal with Google as a potential deal-breaker in its talks with Yahoo. It had also called it a bad business decision that would only serve to strengthen Google, the online ad market leader.