How to increase literacy rate of a country with special emphasis on rural areas including girl child and minority communities?

Answer

 Best Answer:  We in India have more than 70% population living in rural areas. These people have to be educated about the need of education for their cohesion and adjustment with the educated people living in the urban and metropolitan cities in this highly surcharged atmosphere of competition. In order to teach more people, we have to reach more people; especially in rural areas. Although Government aided and  run educational schools and colleges are fulfilling the needs of the populace, yet, there is a urgent need to enhance the educational pursuit through people oriented programmes. The following are some of the aspects which are to be taken into account for spreading literacy amongst the people.

a/ Making the people aware about the need of education  through print and electronics medias. 

b/ Opening more schools and colleges in the less accessible areas. 

c/ Provide reading and other educational aids’ including books to the needy. 

d/ Providing uniforms to the needy. 

e/ Provision of scholarship to the needy. 

f/ Picking up the meritorious students for higher studies from the rural areas. 

g/ Give specialized type of education to the physically challenged children/children with special needs. 

h/ Periodically monitor the educational standard of the people areawise and devise measures for its improvement. 

i/ Provide grant-in-aid for needy for meeting needs arising out of educational pursuit. 

j/ Provide computers and other modern electronic aids for the schools. 

k/ Proper training and education for the teachers for making the educational pursuit a successful venture. 

l/ Make the people aware about teaching women folks with a view that if we teach a girl you teach a family as a whole.

m/ As far as possible make educational pursuit possible for adults also so that they could also assimilate in the society and get benefits that are accrued.

n/ Those amongst us who could not educate themselves due to some reason or the other, starting special classes for them so that they adjust with the society as a whole. NGOs should chip in for this.*

*Literacy rate of any country depends  on the facilities available in the forms of schools/educational institutions, needful infrastructure for these (study rooms, proper and clean toilet facilities – separate for boys and girls,  adequate number of trained teachers proportional to the students  so that individual necessary playing equipment/toys for specially needed children (for varieties of disabilities) with physiotherapist and specially trained teachers who could meet the needs of these gifted  children etc.

 

In rural India, there is a need of girls’ education because there is wide disparity in the literacy rate of boys and girls. It is well known fact that when we educate a girl, we educate the entire family as such because the child in the initial stage of growth and development, first lesson is imparted by the mother and if she is educated she can amply do so. Illiteracy of the females negatively impacts the entire family to which she goes after marriage. If she is literate and well educated besides cultured one; well versed in value system including traditional modes of behaviour then she can conveniently transfer/impart that value system to her children which doubtlessly will help afterwards in life when a child grows up and faces life. The sluggishness in females’ education could better be removed through the joint and sincere efforts of Government and parents. Efforts should also be made to convince the parents to send the girl child for necessary schooling.  An idea should be spread that both boys and girls need education for adjusting in the life. More so for girls for they have to assimilate themselves in different sort of environments after their marriage. Though in urban and metropolitan cities the literacy rate of girls has improved manifold yet in rural areas there are glitches like non-availability of more schools, teaching staff and other requisites like sanitation etc for girl students which need to be attended urgently.  More funds should be provisioned by the Government for infrastructural and other provisions in the rural areas.  If rural area with more population is awaken through literacy then the country as a whole will have inclusive progress.

Apart from giving fillip to education to girls, there is an urgent need of enhancing literacy rate amongst minorities along with attending to the caste related problems impacting their education. It has been experienced that children from these communities although enroll in the school in first standard but their dropout rate is too high because of factors like financial stringency due to poverty of parents, school available at far off places and available schools do not have trained and efficient staff including non-willingness on the parts of parents to send their children to school etc. Rather they would like their children, in many cases, to follow the parents’ traditional profession to meet the family financial needs. Actually absolute poverty too deters the pursuit of educational pursuits in the rural areas. Though Government is making efforts in educating the rural masses the need of education through publicity campaign and by opening new schools and bridging the gap yet still more needs to be done.

 

 

 

 

715T AUGUST – 71ST INDEPENDENCE DAY (HEARTIEST FELICITATIONS TODAY)

715T AUGUST – 71ST INDEPENDENCE DAY (HEARTIEST FELICITATIONS today) 

Keeping in view the sacrifices made by our forefathers, I pray to Almighty God that India may have inclusive growth and development., despite impediments. My wish-list for this 70th Independence Day and the coming ones is a mix of social harmony, economic, political expediency, probity, law & order besides facing the realities of our times including the specter of terrorism, extremism, violence etc.

• ATTACHMENT WITH THE COUNTRY. There may be some differences due to diverse cultural traditions, diverse religions, diverse caste and creed, colour, language etc but we should always have enduring love for our LAND – BHARAT. When different voices are heard, we get saddened. A RIGHT MESSAGE should go that despite differences, we are ONE. Nothing can divide us.

• DEMONETIZATION AND ITS AFTER-EFFECTS. Though demonetization of currency notes of R. 1000/- and Rs. 500/- have increased the tally of Income Tax Payees, it has also helped the Government in bringing to fore the hidden money kept in safe havens besides helping the Government to stop counterfeit or fake notes. With availability of cash in the banking stream, they can meet their requirements of loaning cash to the general public along with meeting the adverse conditions created by NPA of the Banks.
• THREAT LOOMING LARGE FROM FOREIGN SOILS. There are the countries which are threatening either their neighbours or are threatening using even nuclear weapons knowing well that nobody can win by using these weapons of mass destruction. India should do whatever it can so that peace prevails everywhere. Insensitive heightened rhetoric will not help only sagacious foreign policy moves can solve the pestering problems.
• HEALTH CARE OF THE GENERAL MASSES. What happened in Gorakhpur in UP recently is unfortunate and an eye-opener, we would like the authorities to introspect and help provide medicare to the citizenry in general so that there is no deaths. Mere politicizing this episode will not solve this health care problem. All out efforts by the medical community along with the administration is called for in this context.
• PEOPLE’S REPRESENTATIVES SHOULD BE ACCOUNTABLE. We choose our representatives so that they pass various legislations and exert for the upliftment of the society as a whole. Some modicum of wisdom has been shown by our parliamentarians which earlier on (in the previous Monsoon Session was missing.

THIS TIME IMPORTANT BILLS LIKE GST and many more are being passed after incisive dialogue and discussions. Every Indian felt satisfied, the way discussions on GST were held and all the parties showed unanimity or consensus for passage of this important bill. Then discussions with regard to ongoing Kashmir turmoil besides discussions on unfortunate incidents meted out to Dalits and weaker sections of the society; the maturity and wisdom of our representatives was really worth appreciation. We want our parliamentarians to show sagacity and legislate through discussions and dialogue on the matters impinging on the people’s wellbeing. This shows that despite differences based on party affiliations, we can rise above There may be differences and those are always there but these have to be discussed threadbare in proper forums and solutions provided. The Government too should take holistic view of the pestering problems at hand and reach consensus on the topics which are of importance for the country as a whole. That is the democracy we want and prosper in India.

• CHANGE IN THE MINDSET ON THE BASIS OF CASTE, CREED AND COLOUR. Previously the varnas or caste system wwas on the basis of professions the people followed. Now everybody is free to profess his/her profession therefore there should not be any need to give more credence to narrow parochialism Recent happenings (it may be in Gujarat, UP, Bihar or any other place) are the blot on the society as a whole wherein the Dalits are beaten up mercilessly either by cow protection vigilantes or cold shouldered even by the law enforcement agencies when approached by them for action. These incidences also echoed in the Parliament and all expressed their anguished on the sordid incidents. On the name of cow protection, some irresponsible and heartless instead of taking recourse to lawful action law unto themselves and hand out punishment in the full glare of the public. People in general are incensed by these incidents and the Centre and States should come forward and bestow protection to the Dalits and weaker sections of the society.
  • 
  • I WANT MY INDIA TO BE SENSITIVE TO THE NEEDS OF FELLOWMEN. The insensitivity and callousness that we show towards road accident victims is really pathetic. Our heart should feel pain when anybody is pained. The recent incident in which a tempo drive hit at 5.40 AM and till 6.10 AM nobody came to his succor and he was left to bleed. A man went there but to steal the mobile of the accident victim! It is not only the tempo driver, CCTV footage showed that several vehicles passed that way, a police van too passed that way but nobody cared for the accident victim. Such incidents and accidents are common butit should be our sincere endeavour to provide immediate medical care to the hapless person – in this the person concerned died leaving his dependent parents, wife and children to fend for themselves. Today, it is somebody else, tomorrow may be he/she is your near and dear one then what; if timely medicare is not provided to that person? May be it is the fear of police harassment that people do not come to the rescue of the victims. In that case law should be made to offer proper reward to the good Samaritan rather than harassment.
  • 
  • HONORING THE NATIONAL HEROES. It should be our endeavour to respect the dependents of those who laid down their lives for freedom of our country. Not only freedom fighters but those who lay down their lives for protect of the hard earned freedom should also be respected. We remember our heroes only when some unsavoury incident of terrorist happens but soon thereafter we woefully forget their valour and supreme sacrifice. What the ongoing demolition drive by BBMP has brought home is really pathetic. A portion of the house of Lt Col Niranjan Kumar (killed during Pathankot terror attack) has also come under demolition list. Such is the apathy and heartless attitude shown to the dependents is really an eye opener. It is my wish that those who make supreme sacrifices should be respected.
  • 
  • TRADITIONAL MODES OF BEHAVIOR/VALUES. It is a sad commentary that we are forgetting the traditional modes of behavior. The values which our forefathers attached to family and our cultural modes of behavior is being forgotten and in its place narrow regional considerations are being given credence knowing fully well that these are neither beneficial to anybody in the society. I would like my countrymen to imbibe traditional values for which my Bharat is acclaimed since ages with the dictum, respect others if you want to get respect. It is never a one sides affair.
  • 
  • 
  • A COUNTRY WHICH RESPECTS THE RIGHTS OF WOMEN AND GIRL CHILD. It is high time we respect our women folks. The Divine Trinity has his female counterpart; Saraswati (learning) – Lord Barmha, Lakshmi (wealth) – Lord Vishnu and Parvati (power) – Lord Shiva. All the rituals, especially auspicious ones, are incomplete without women being part of it all. Disrespecting women was construed as the disrespecting the God. All the relationships – mother, wife, daughter, sister, etc are essential for us all. In olden times these relations were considered very reverential. Without these, what is the status of father in relation to mother, wife in relation to husband, daughter in relation to son, sister in relation to brother etc.
  • 
  A woman was supposed to be the manifestation of Goddess/Shakti and the male was supposed to be incomplete without the female (Shakti) with him. Lord Shiva is incomplete with His Shakti (Maan Parvati) that is why it is called SHIVSHAKTI.

  Even in Ramayana times women used to choose their suitors – Maan Sita chose Lord Rama after he broke the Dhanush of Lord Shiva in a sacred ceremony called soambar. Even in Mahabharta Dropati chose Arjuna in a soambar.

  In other words, those who want to subjugate women and refuse to give their proper place, they are hypocrites. A simple question: CAN THIS PROCREATION and raising of new GENERATION possible without women? Men and women are the equal partners and ought to be taken as such.

• SELF RESPECT. It is a fact that respect is earned by our day to day behavior and demeanor. We have to earn our respect. It is not given to us on the platter for nothing. If I want that others should respect me, it is essential that I respect others. One who knows how to maintain self respect knows the need of respecting others on the basis of quid pro quo. It is synonymous with: Charity begins from home. Even a small child will respond with respect if I treat that child well.
• SPECTER OF TERRORISM. World is facing the ugly face of terrorism emanating from some parts of the world. The terrorists are striking at will anywhere it wants causing mayhem and killing including violation of human rights. Now is the time when human rights of all the people without discrimination have to be protected. The scourge of terrorism and violence have to be tackled with iron hand. This is an international problems and should be tackled under the aegis of UNO otherwise the humanity as a whole will suffer without unreasonably.

RESPECT OF BHARAT MATA IN THE COMITY OF NATIONS. We are connected with other countries of the world. Anything that happens in one part of the world has its reverberations / repercussions in other parts of the world. It may be economical deceleration, political upheaval, extremists / terrorists strikes / activities, all these have their affects on all the countries.

• IF WE WANT TO PROGRESS, IT IS A MUST THAT WE ARE INTERNALLY STRONG. For this to happen, it is a must that we are economically stable, politically strong, militarily strong, whose opinion is taken with a pinch of salt diplomatically, helps the weaker countries with finance and sometimes militarily as done in case of African nations by India many a times.

• BLACK MONEY MENACE. It has been seen that in order to avoid paying taxes and to escape from queries of sources of black money, people are stashing their ill-gotten monies in the foreign banks in the process, bleeding the country. The money which ought to have been used in job creation, infrastructural creation/improvement, etc are being used by others! Government, in the light of directions of the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, has constituted SIT to unearth black money. This is a welcome step. Lets see if it could show tangible results and bring back the black money which could be used in our country.

• CORRUPTION FREE SOCIETY. One of the impediments that is eating into the very vitals of our society is the hydra headed corruption. We are aware about the scamps and corrupt practices that were used in allotting coal blocks, use of middle man in defence purchases, and currently even the Judiciary has come under attack with some people tarnishing its image. God forbid, this is the wing of our society which should/is respected the most, if it falls prey to corruption then on whom our society will bank on! Wish that our country becomes corruption free one. This is a crying need of the hour as corruption is taking the wheels of progress backward.
• 
• UNQUESTIONABLE INTEGRITY. I would like all people with unquestionable integrity for upholding the unity and solidarity of India. This is the most essential asset for an individual. If it is in suspect then very existence of ours is in doubt and a life with doubt is fraught with impediments.
 
• RESPECT FOR EACH OTHERS FAITHS AND BELIEFS. India has diverse cultural modes. Its different religions, castes, creeds, belief systems, languages etc. If we respect each others’ modes of behavior, then there would be cohesion and brotherhood amongst our country men. When we are united, then no power can subjugate us. For this to happen in real sense of terms, it is important that we respect each other rights.
 
• EDUCATIONAL IMPROVEMENT. Education of the masses is one of the important factor for overall health of the country. Care ought to be exercised that students are taught the skills along with the general education so that they ‘earn while they learn’. Skilled and semi-skilled training should be imparted according to the capacity and capability of the student. We are rich in Human Resource. We have to exploit this rich resource for our own benefit. This is also important for avoid brain drain which is presently happening. Our IITs and IIMs are churning out technocrats and management professionals of highest caliber. Their talents should never go waste. Let our Government come forward in absorbing these talents for garnering benefits for our country.

• Economically Strong Country. Now-a-days, economical clout in the comity of nation is very essential. For becoming economically strong, it is a important that all the sectors of the economy; may it be industrial or agricultural should contribute their mite for economic health of the economy. This can only happen when we have inclusive growth and development. Nothing happens in isolation.

• RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT (R&D).Due to one reason or the other, this has been experienced that our R&D is just in doldrums. For example, the different projects which are being pursued by DRDO are not fructifying on time or lacking necessary resources (manpower or other resources). For example, the project for producing indigenous fighter aircraft project is just not complete till date. Wish that our R&D matches with best in the world so that we do not be dependent on others for our defence needs or any other crucial needs.

• INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT TAKES PLACE. Due to one reason of the other, the industrial development of our country remains almost stagnant or is below par. This is due to lack or resources. A country whose markets are being exploited by foreigners remains industrial backward is really bad. People buy and use Chinese made goods at cheaper rates without any guarantee of their use. Can India not manufacture the same goods for their own people and exploit gigantic market – benefiting the industry and the people both. The profit earned by the owners of the industry could then be pumped for more production and increasing their capacities.

• AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT IS ENSURED. Due to beggaries of monsoon, the agricultural production remains uncertain. The fear of scanty rain results in increase in prices of food item/vegetables etc creating food inflation. This is especially so in rainy season. The prices of vegetables is sky rocketing. The people do feel a pinch.
 
• If water management is properly done, then, the deficit created by scarcity of rain could be bridged.
• The Government’s project/ plan of connecting major river could do wonders in this regard.
Pollution to be tackled on the war footings.
• Infrastructure Development ought to be a continuous process.
• Imports / Export Policies oriented for improvement of imports and exports. More exports means more foreign currency for the country. More foreign currency could reduce the budge deficit which has become a number one headache for the country.
• Foreign Exchange Reserve to be replenished.
• Fiscal Policies revised as per the need of the hour so that the current rate / value of rupee does not fall as is being happening presently.
• 
• IT Sector to be given boost. India is potentially a soft power giant. But we have to exploit this resource to the hilt as is being done by other countries. We IT experts are proving their mettle in other countries. We are thus losing our human resources and also the benefits which our country ought to have garnered.

• It should never be forgotten that other countries too are improving in this sector. It is a must that this Sector should be given more incentive so that it improves further and earns much needed Foreign Exchange for the country.

• Spiritually Forward Nation. One of my fondest wish is that India may become progressive but with spiritualistic outlook, where people are awakened morally, culturally, aesthetically, progressive and more compassionate. Also keeping all along in that progress – leaving none.

• The above are some of our wish-list which every right thinking Indian would like to have for the overall development of the Bharat of our dream.

It is my fond wish that our next Independent Day should be more progressive in its outlook, self reliant, spiritually awakened and its youth positively oriented for steering the ahead from the choppy waters of deceleration. Also, there should be peace and tranquility between different communities. Discrimination on the basis narrow regionalism or caste, creed or language should cease and our dharma should be development for all – all inclusive.

 

NECESSITY OF INCARNATION OF KRISHNA – WISHING YOU ALL HAPPY JANAMASHTHMI

NECESSITY OF INCARNATION OF KRISHNA – WISHING YOU ALL HAPPY JANAMASHTHMI

 

When gross misconducts are at the worst

When irreligious people rule the roost

When there is no respect for the principles of natural justice

When voices of virtuous souls are gagged with force

When human values are ignored woefully

When ignorance replaces knowledge and sagacity

When people are disgruntled immeasurably

When ignorance is respected unduly

When egocentric tendencies are pampered

When even blood relations are imprisoned

When divinity and spirituality lose its sheen

When saintly advises are not paid any heed

                             When arrogance is allowed to increase

When subjectS are hugely coerced by their masters

To submit to their whims

And force them not to pray Omnipotent and Omniscient

When seers’ Yajna are defiled 

By throwing rubbish and filth on the sacred fires

When sages and opposite voices are stifled with highhandedly

When even just-born kids are done to death mindlessly

Because of fear of these children

Growing and becoming a cause of their own death

When general masses are uncared

And left at the mercy of evil marauders

Thence our Lord Vishnu descends from His Abode

To this material world to deliver the pious ones

And to annihilate the evil which has made a residency

Bedeviling our societies

As well as to re-establish the principles,

Of morality and fair-play.

 

At the stroke of midnight,   Ashtami Tithi and Rohini Nakshtra,

There appeared Lord Vishnu  dressed in shining attire

And carrying His weapons including Sudharshan Chakra,

In the confinement of Kamsa,

On request from mother (Devaki) & father (Vasudeva),

He turned Himself as a baby to be hidden from evil Kamsa,

Thus took place the birth of Krishna in Yadu dynasty,

Kamsa knew full well the truth

That nobody can frustrate the purpose of Lord Vishu incarnation

Since the will of God always prevails on all occasions.

 

The violent and vigilant guards remained in deep sleep,

Oblivious what transpired in the guarded dungeon just near,

Whilst heavy downpour made the Yamuna fully swollen,

With Sheshnag providing a shelter from rain,

Yamuna swelled still further on,

Ready to touch the feet of the Supreme Lord,

Then Krishna offered His Divine Feet for Yamuna’s  touch.

At Nandgaon Vasudeva exchanged the baby Krishna

Brought back Yashoda’s daughter named Yogmaya

He was back to his prison cell without being found out by anyone.

 

At Nandagaonm, Krishna performed many of His Leelas

Showed His mystical prowess at Mathura and finally Dwaraka,

He mesmerized Gopis with His flute – musical best,

Attracting even the cows herds in hoards,

Gayatri Mantra was initiated to the Krishna by Guru Gargamuni,

And Vedic arts and sciences by Guru Sandipanimuni,

At Mathura He killed many demons,

To ward off the demons threats,

Thus stopping threat looming large,

Of many a ferocious demons.

During His childhood days and  life time.

 

He married many  queens,

Rukimni being the most beautiful one,

Love of Radha & Krishna is etched in folklore’s,

Will ever remain in our memories,

As the pious Love of Divines.

Acted as a Charioteer of Arjuna,

The greatest dhanushdhari of all times,

Was the role of His in the Kurukshtra war!

Where Lord Krishna displayed His stupendous Universal Form,

When Arjuna was in doubt to fight war,

Against kith and kin of his own,

Then the Supreme Lord delivered His famed Bhagavad Gita,

“The Song of God”,

Containing essence of Jnana,

All encompassing knowledge – Gyana.

In the war that ensued,

Evil doers were destroyed,

And with them the wickedness that pervaded,

A victory of good over evil was ensured,

A sweet lessons for us mortals to follow indeed.

 May Lord Krishna’s blessings be showered on all of us

NEED OF  INCARNATION

The demons kings were very harsh in their behavior towards their subjects. They inflicted all sorts of punishments on them including not allowing them to worship their deities and carrying out various rituals as enshrined in the scriptures. . The demon kings wanted that people should obey them, pray them and remain slave to them. All this and more made the world perturbed. This necessitated and impelled deity of earth – Mother Earth (Bhumi) to go to the Lord Brahma in Brahmaloka  with tears in her eyes to reduce the burden of sins being perpetrated by the demons from the earth. Lord Bhrahma, Lord Shiva along with all Demi God accompanied Mother Earth for invoking Lord Vishnu to come to their succor. All prevailed upon Lord Vishnu to appear as the son of Vasudeva and all other Demi Gods to appear on the Mother Earth in different forms to assist Lord Vishnu in His new Avtar.  .   

Lord Krishna Himself has enunciated in Bhagwad Gita that whenever there is excessive evil/sin in the society; when there is prominence of repressive and regressive forces besides prevalence of irreligious practices, He appears on this planet to eliminate evil thus minimize the scourge of evil from the society besides protecting the pious and righteous people. His form may be different in different ages but He takes birth or incarnates and shows the right course to the people at large with His thoughts and actions.

Lord Vishnu is the cause of creation and He incarnated as Krishna to eliminate demonic forces prevalent in the society at large. It has rightly been said that God is omnipotent and omniscient besides He possesses innumerable names: Lord-Allaha-Rama-Krishna-Jehova-Budha-Akalpurakh but Truly speaking; He is the ONE. He has personal and impersonal aspects. To exemplify this; a drop of water has the same chemical and physical properties as water from huge reservoir of water. One or Many hardly makes any difference. Our body which we love the most is impermanent. Our soul and the Super Soul are permanent. It does not die with the death of the body. God incarnations and saints’ lives which have been enumerated in different scriptures have made it amply clear about the importance of God Consciousness through their discourses and other mystic actions, remain inspiring us humans. Such is the importance of incarnation of Lord Vishnu as Krishna.

 KRISHNA JANAMASHTAMI

Krishna Janmashtami has been variously described as: Krishnashtami, Saatam Aatham, Gokulashtami, Ashtami Rohini, Shrikrishna Jayanti, Sri Jayanti, Krishna Janma, Gokulashtami, Sri Krishna Jayanti, etc.

The birthday of Sri Krishna is celebrated every year. As per the astrological calculations and scriptural details, the date of Krishna’s birth, which is known as Janamashtami is 18 July 3228 BCE. Lord Krishna lived upto 18^th February 3102 BCE. He is the 8^th Avtar of Lord Vishnu. This festival is celebrated on the 8^th day of Krishna Paksha (dark night) between the months of August – September every year.

Krishna belonged to the Yadu dynasty descending from Soma. He was the 8^th son of Princess Devaki and Vasudeva (son of Surasena). Krishna was carried across the River Yamuna by Vasudeva after his birth in the confinement of Kamsa.

After the marriage ceremonies, while Kamsa was taking his sister Devaki and brother-in-law Vasudeva in the cheriat, he felt very happy. There is a custom of brother accompanying the married sister to her in-laws home. The procession was passing merrily while Kamsa was driving the chariot. The atmosphere was surcharged with joyous/ecstasy.

As ill luck would have it, there was a prophecy from the sky: “Kamsa, you are such a fool! You are driving the chariot of your sister and your brother-in-law, but you do not know that the 8^th child of your sister will kill you. “. Kamsa was dumbfounded and could not control his anger and therefore wanted to kill Devaki (the daughter of Devaka) but Vasudeva intervened and promised that they will give all their newborn children to Kamsa after their births and agreed to stay in his jail cell. They were thus imprisoned under the supervision of guards. Vasudeva also commented that Kamsa being a greatest warrior and should not kill his own sister. He also told Kamsa that we are dying every moment that passes and death is evitable for the one who is born. Thus he pacified Kamsa through his (Vasudeva’s) flattery.

Afterwards, Kamsa imprisoned his own father (Ugrasena) and declared himself as the King besides usurping the power of King Surasena (Vasudeva’s father). He expanded his power to other parts too through his prowess.

Subsequently, first six children of Devaki and Vasudeva were killed by King Kamsa sooner they were born after the news of their birth was conveyed to him. While Kamsa’s relatives and friends tried to dissuade him from doing so but he did not listen to anyone.    Then there was a news of miscarriage of seventh child but actually seventh child was transferred to Rohini as Balarama – just secretly – a Mystical potency of God.

When Krishna was born, there was an atmosphere of peace, auspicious stars were visible in the sky besides there were all positive signs. The demigods were very pleased and began to shower flowers. Then Lord Vishnu appeared before Devaki and she felt very elated. Vasudeva was also very happy after seeing the shine on the face of the newborn – such opulence and effulgence. The demigods had already informed them that Supreme Personality of Godhead would be born from the womb of Devaki. He was really convinced that the newborn was the Godhead Himself. Vasudeva  began to offer prayers. He was of the firm belief that now Kamsa will get justice for his sinful acts. He thus prayed and requested Him to save them from the hands of Kamsa. Devaki requested Him to take the form of an ordinary child so that no harm is done to him.

Afterwards, a mystic thing happened, all the prison locks got opened, all the guards slept and there was a heavy rain. On the birth of eighth child, Lord Vishnu ordained that the child be taken to Gokula to Nanda and Yashoda. There upon, Vasudeva took infant Krishna with him, crossed the river Yamuna and reached Gokul. After leaving infant child at Gokula, he brought back Yashoda’s daughter named Yogmaya back to his prison cell. Due to the grace of Lord Vishnu, nothing went amiss. The birth of Krishna, and activities are all transcendental and one who understands it is spiritually rich person. His birth is according to His time and place besides the need of such an eventuality. Even the planetary systems were adjusted auspiciously at the time of Krishna’s birth.

Foster father Nanda Baba and mother Yashoda of Lord Krishna were very happy while they were celebrating the birth of their newborn son with great pump and show. There was an atmosphere of joy everywhere. Yashoda always thought Krishna as her dear son and not anything else – they all enjoyed the childhood pastimes of Krishna thereafter.

The news of the 8^th child was given to Kamsa. While Kansa was about to kill Yogmaya, she vanished from his hands and thundered that his killer was in Gokul and warned about his looming death. Thereupon Kamsa sent his various ferocious demons to kill Krishna.

KAMSA’S PERSECUTION RECKLESSNESS STARTS

Kamsa comes to know about the birth of 8^th child and further information that he is taken to Gokula made him furious. He got exasperated and lamented; now the cruel death will not be far away he thought. Yet he wanted to do everything in order to eliminate the child.

• Kamsa sent Putana who was known for killing small children by her sinful methods, to kill child Krishna. Krishna killed her after suckling her breast.
• King Kamsa sent demon named Trnavarta with mystic powers. He was eliminated by Krishna without much difficulty.
• A demon named Bakasura attacked him and his cowherd friends. Krishna killed him.
• Serpent Aghasura was killed after playful acts of Krishna and his friends with him.
• Dhenukasura attacked Krishna and his gops. He killed the demon.
• Demon Pralambasura sent by King Kamsa was killed by Lord Krishna.
• Demon Kesi in the form of a horse was killed by Krishna.
• While visting Mathura, Lord Krishna killed the wrestler named Canura by hurling him to the ground while wrestling.
• Finally Lord Krishna dragged the demoniac King Kamsa and threw him on the ground, struck im with His fist repeatedly and killed him. That was the end of the evil along with Demon King 

 WHAT THE GENERAL PUBLIC DO ON THIS PIOUS DAY

Devout keep fast on this day and remain awake till midnight at the time when Krishna was believed to have born. The image of Krishna as an infant is kept on the cradle or swing both at homes and temples and everyone wants to have a dharshan makes the swing to move. This is considered an auspicious thing.

Devotees sing songs and make merry besides exchanging gifts and flowers. In temples satsang and puja is also held.

Janamashtmi is celebrated differently In different parts of India. In Maharashtra, Dehihandi is celebrated where buttermilk is kept in a pot and kept at a convenient height. Different parties try to break this earthen pot so as to win this contest. This event is undertaken to remember the event of stealing of buttermilk by Krishna in his childhood from Gopi’s homes. The participants in this event are called Govindas.

In Mathura (the birth place of Krishana), Gokul and Vrindavan the festival is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm. People gather in large number and offer their prayers to Him. Even in Dwarka in Gujarat where Krishna established his kingdom, people visit Dwarkadish temple. Bhagavata Purana, the part dealing with the pastimes of Krishna are recited besides offerings of betel, fruits, flowers etc done by the devotees.

Gokulashtami is celebrated with great fervor in South India too. In Tamil Nadu, the people decorate the floor with kolams (decorative pattern drawn with rice batter).

Besides Lord Krishna’s mysticism and Leelas are always enjoyed by the devotees.

• Lord Krishana dance upon the heads of the serpent Kaliya thereafter Kaliya realized his mistake.
• Protected the people from the heavy rains on the village Vrindavan by lifting Govardhan hill on his little finger.
• Rassa Lila (Dance) with gopis at Vrindavana to the tune of the flute.

It is opined in Bhaghwad Gita that those who know about the birth, His appearance and all activities of Lord Krishna become eligible to be transferred to spiritual world. JAI SHRI KRISHNA.

 

 

RAKSHA BANDHAN – RAKHI BANDHANA (AS ON 7TH AUGUST 2017)

RAKSHA BANDHAN – RAKHI BANDHANA (AS ON 7TH AUGUST)

Meaning of ‘Raksha’ is to assure security

Bandhan means a bond or a surety

That a brother bestows

Upon his sister, so valued one

It hardly makes any difference

Whether she is of biological origin

Or just a known human perchance

It could be a knot of thread between neighbours

And other society members

With no consideration of religion

Caste, colour or region

This festival is held in the Hindu month of Shravan

Witnessed by the auspicious FULL MOON FROM THE HEAVEN

The RAKSHA BANDHAN is the festival, so pure

When sister ties the sacred thread around her brother’s wrist

She is suffused with sisterly adoration

And awe-inspiring sentiment of brotherly affection

A festival of deep bond of emotion

Wherein a brother promises defence

To his sister from any danger unforeseen

An ultimate ‘bond of protection’ though unwritten

Yet this thread is not an ordinary twine

But solemn word given.

Purpose is to keep the fabric of society intact

To ensure communal harmony, with no strings attached

History is replete with examples

When Rajputs & Maratha queens sent Rankhis,

To the Mughal kings

And won their sympathies at the time most critical

 

There is also a story of Alexander the Great’s spouse

Sending a Rakhi to King Porus

Which King Porus reciprocated and respected

By not harming her husband

Such is the sacred strength of Rakhi’s bond.

Such is the power of this ordinary thread,

That it can keep even adversaries united.

O our All powerful Creator,

Thee who can do anything anywhere,

Knot the world communities with ThouThread, so Holy

So that all live in peace and in harmony.

RAKSHA BANDHAN  

The word Raksha means an act  of protection and bandhan is related to a/bond/or an association. Taken together the two means a relation which ensures/ protection from unpredictable quarters.  Raksha Bandhan, in other words is a bond between brother and sister for bestowing protection to the sister whenever contingency arises – a sacred pledge that he (brother) will fulfill the promise of protection come what may. In return, the sister prays for the wellbeing and prosperity of her brother. It is not merely the case of brother protecting his sister but otherwise also. We have examples of some financial sound but married sisters coming to the succor of their brothers who due to some reasons cannot bear the expenses of their education etc come to the rescue of their brothers.A case in point is of a sister named Aruna Tyagi, aged 50-years, whose brother was done to death by some goons. Despite police complaints and entreaties thereafter, nobody was caught. This lady determined to meet the Chief Minister and justice and for that she would be travelling 600km for justice! As we ready for Raksha Bandhan, ‘a sister marches 600 Kms for justice is the heading of the news.

Raksha Bandhan is a  Hindu festival which highlights the importance of brother-sister relationship. Here, brother-sister may be related biologically or even unrelated. In some parts of India it is simply called Rakhi festival or Rakhi Purnima (falling on full moon). India being a multi-cultural society, not only Hindus, it is celebrated by Sikhs, Jains etc. The sister ties a (Rakhi thread) sacred thread on the wrist of her brother and the brother, in turn, gives a solemn pledge or promise to the sister to come to her succor at any unforeseen exigencies. A promise which is formulized on RAKHI PURNIMA DAY. This festival falls on full moon day (Shravan Poornima) and that is why it is also called as Raksha Poornima.

The brother-sister relationship is really very sensitive. When brother and sister are biologically connected then they grow up together under the same roof and the parents make them understand the importance of brother-sister relationship. As the sister, after she grows up, has to leave the home and hearth of her parents after she is married, Rakhi Thread becomes a sacred link between brother and sister to remind each other that there exists somebody to care for him/her. It is, in other words, an emotional bond/link which brings forth the memories of the past days when both brother and sister had lived and brought up together. To say the least, I opine, sisterly love is next the motherly love.  A simple woven thread, self made or purchased from market with great reverence  cements relationship even further between brother and sister.

Some of the salient features of RAKSHA BANDHAN are given below:-

1. Raksha Bandhan signifies the love and affection between brother and sister – an emotional link which solidifies the relationship between the two blood-related or otherwise. It may include brother and sister who are not biologically related. Just strangers but they establish a bond by tying a simple twine on the wrist which solidifies the relationship. Sometimes this sister-brother relationship does not take into account the artificial boundaries or barriers of caste, creed, colour or religion.
2. Brother promises to protect her sister and come to her succor whenever called for besides giving a suitable gift for his sister as a token of love. It could be a sister promising to come to the assistance of a brother in need.
3. At the time of tying the knot of sacred thread parents, grand-parents and other members of the family ritualistically gather to shower their blessings on brother-sister at a spot where sister ties knot of Rakhi to her brother and pray for their well-being and prosperity. Tying of knot of a Rakhi is done in a ceremony by lighting a earthen wick or a candle in a shallow plate. Sister applies tilak or tikka on the forehead of her brother and then ties Rakhi. The purpose of lighting a wick is for sanctification of RAKSHA BANDHAN in presence of Fire God. Brother gives her gifts and promises to protect her whenever there is a need. Subsequently, the sister prays for the wellbeing and prosperity of her brother. Some sing religious songs in connection with Rakhi festival.
4. The sister prays to God for the safety and prosperity of his brother.
5. A sacred thread, in the form of Rakhi thread, cements a bond between brother and sister thus establishes goodwill and emotional bond between them two.
6. Most importantly, when brother-sister love is affirmed outside the biological relationship then it will enhance inter-faith cohesion and fellow feelings between different castes, religions etc. This practice persisted in the past and is prevalent now as well. Raksha Bandhan evokes feeling of love, respect, and a sense of protection and also engenders a feeling of togetherness between different religions.
7. Then there is a practice of sending Rakhi threads made by the school children to the soldiers guarding the borders who could not be with their sisters because of their emergent commitments. These soldiers will naturally feel elated and emotionally suffused by this sacred gesture.
8. Self made Rakhi Threads along with the sweets and gifts are sent to the orphanages for tying to the ones who were not so fortunate to have their brother tying this sacred thread. This also brings smile on their faces.
9. Brothers and sisters who are geographically separated send their Rakhis by post or any other fast means along with the gifts in the form of gift cheque etc. Now-a-days, due to the progress of communication owing to net, Rakhis could even be e-Rakhied without wastage of time. What a way to exploit the fast communication! This gesture too keeps the bond of brother-sister love ever blossoming.
10. The Prohits self-make Rakhis and distribute amongst their disciples who put these on their writs with fervour. This too is considered as a SARED TWINE.

Historical Perspective

Earliest exampels of a Rakhi Bandhan prayer is found in VISHNU PURAN:  a prayer that Yasoda sung while tying a sacred rakhi lucky charm on Krishna’s wrist.

May the lord of all beings protect you,
May the one who creates, preserves and dissolves life protect thee.

Historically legend has it that Rajput queens used to send rakhi threads (a scared thread) to other neighbouring rulers in order to show their linkage or relationship and establish a bond of relationship and spread brotherly feeling amongst the neighbourhood and avoid bloodletting on small pretext or misunderstanding of any nature.

There is a legend, Lord Ganesha had two sons named Shubh and Labh. While Ganesh’s sister came to tie a Rakhi around the wrist of Ganesh, his sons became disappointed. They wanted a sister too. Then  Narda Muni came and persuaded  Lord Ganesha for the same and thus created a daughter by the name of Santoshi Maa by the divine flame emerging from wives named Ridhi and Sidhi who tied Rakhi on the wrists of her brothers Shubh and Labh.  There is also a legend in Bhagavata Purana and Vishnu Purana that after Lord Vishnu won the three worlds from demon king Bali, he requested Lord Vishnu along with Maa Lakshmi to stay in his palace. This was not like by Goddess Lakshmi. She had a plan. She tied a Rakhi around the wrist of King Bali and made him his brother. When asked for a gift she asked for the freedom of Lord VISHNU and freed from the promise to live at his palace. Demon king agreed.

In Manabharta, Lord  Krishna considered Draupati as his sister. When there was a cut on his finger while beheading Shushupal, she pierced a piece of her sari and tied it around his injured finger which was bleeding. Krishna took it as a sacred thread (RAKSHNA BANDHAN) and bestowed her protection whenever called for the same.

There is also a legend of Yama (the lord of death) and Yamuna (river). Yama, due to pre-occupation could not visit her for 12 long years. She told Ganga for the same. Gangaji mentioned this to Lord Yama. He visited his sister thereafter. Yama was very happy to see his brother after a long time; prepared tasty food for him. On asking for a gift, she extracted a promise that he should visit her year after year. This too is connected with Rakshna Bandhan.

May true spirit Raksha Bandhan prevails and creates congenial brotherly feelings amongst the humanity as a whole

 

           

 

 

ON POSITIVE PEACE

PIECE TOGETHER PEACE

When there is prevalence of pain

When our willpower pulls us down

When suffering knocks our door

When disharmony rules roost

When every blooming moment turns into gloom

When dullness is all pervasive

When happiness is elusive

When disorder results at every step

When negativity rules our mindset

When quiet replaces disquiet

When lack of confidence haunts at every step we take

When our mental state goes into tizzy

When disturbance replaces tranquility

When genuine peace is a far cry

When negative peace is the order of the day

When it becomes difficult to adjust with surrounding

When every hope turns hopelessly off-putting

Then what to do when peace eludes us totally?

Only delving deep into our inner self entirely

Can deliver us from all pervasive quandary

EXPRESSION OF PEACE & TRANQUILITY

From the expressions on the faces of the people we come across in our daily life, if you try, we can come to know about their state of mind. The adage, face is the index of mind and we can read everything that lies inside them. Anxiety, lack of confidence, and dullness are writ large on their faces. There may be a smile sometimes, here and there, but that too is momentary – apparently true happiness is lacking. We may see very less people with calmness along with brimming with self confidence.

The literal meaning of peace (aman) is quietness, being in harmony, tranquility or without any sort of disorder. In other words, it is a state which is devoid of any disturbance. It is a sort of harmony in personal relationship in relation with other members of the society.

NON-FULFILLMENT OF OUR DESIRES BRINGS ABOUT LACK OF PEACE

When our desires are not fulfilled, we are in for trouble, meaning, either we are not able to adjust with the environments in which we are living or maybe we are not able adapt to change. Either way, we are sufferers. Then we’ve an agent which affects us more than others is boredom or widespread dullness. This agent creates more negativity than any other agent of change. We must have observed what inner turmoil people experience especially in oldage and in retired life when retirees have nothing concrete to do. They do not have disciplined directed life – like getting up on time, going to office on time and become accustomed to day to day routines thereby remaining busy and escape route from monotony and boredom. I know a person, who wanted to enjoy his retired life peacefully with nothing to do but enjoy and while away his time. I tried to convince him to remain busy in some pursuit but he did not care. But within a short period of two years after his retirement he died. He died, perhaps, due to boredom.

CONTROL OF MIND AND CREATION OF PEACE

Reigning in our mind brings about peace, purity, tranquility besides the thoughts which are free from any delusions. It is bereft of any yearning for anything unreasonable. We live holistically and naturally with total detachment – good or  bad situations do not imbalance us.

INNER STRENGTH AND TOTAL PEACE

For reaching a state of permanent peace and subsequently bliss, we’ve to explore our inner self and synergise our efforts to make a huge difference and earn peace and tranquility. This will not only bring about peace and also we would be able to know the true nature of our soul. Essentially, the eternal peace or bliss is hidden deep into inner self. It is just like a wave in the sea, when the wave has passed, there is prevalence of stillness. We remain absorbed in our own state of affairs and think that only external life is the best one – enjoying the fruits of work, earning our livelihood and then make merry – but this is not an eternal peace, maybe it is buying some peace, a temporary phase.

REMOVAL OF INNER CONFLICTS BRINGS IN ITS WAKE LASTING PEACE

But this is temporary phenomenon in real sense of terms. Total realization of happiness comes when we delve deep into our system and do everything which may help us gain calmness and tranquility. But it is easier said than done because are inner conflicts and contradictions which have to be fought within us first. Having resolved these inner divergences, we can realize our goal of inner peace. It should be realized that temporary peace which is acquired from external sources is no peace at all.  It is impermanent one. For eternal peace, we have not to go away from ourselves. It lies within us.

Sikh thought agrees that: With pain and suffering genuine peace is not possible and that peace is not necessarily the absence of war.

PEACE BETWEEN COUNTRIES

In order to live peacefully at our home, we have to have peace in our immediate neighborhood. The same analogy could be made applicable in relation to the peaceful co-existence with our neighboring countries. Nothing should be done which may disturb the peace of others. It could be non-use of offensive language to bully others, hedge-monistic attitude besides respecting the unity and integrity of others. What is happening in our neighborhood is a pointer to all this. Twist to irony comes to fore when some countries want to lord over other countries and adopt big-brotherly attitude by intimidating other countries by raising trade barriers or dumping goods to earn foreign exchange. All these reckless tactics are enemies of peace. Although, now with the deterrence of atomic weapons looming large, although positive peace is elusive and hard to get. Negative peace prevails on the basis of the dictum: Peace flows through the barrel of the gun.

But I subscribe to the sagacity enunciated in Holy Bible: Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.

·       PEACE IS INDIVIDUALIST OR SUBJECTIVE IN NATURE. Peace of mind is individualist in nature. When an individual does not feel let down or feel slighted by any event which otherwise could have implications on the emotional plane but concerned person’s modesty remains in the best of elements. There are people at high places who would like to slight or slender or pull others down, irrationally, in front of others, with an aim to show off without thinking about others’ sensibilities. Bossing around to a limit is alright but when it crosses a set limit bordering on insulting others, it tapers off the peace of others.

·       TOTAL DETACHMENT IS THE SURE WAY OF ACHIEVING EQUANIMITY. At best, if we remain attached to the fruits of our Karma, then, sure enough, when the result is not appropriate to our likings, we may feel disappointed, leading to unreasonable and unpredictable consequences. Remaining detached results in remaining prepared for any consequences; failure or successful fructification hardly makes difference to our balance of mind, in other words peace, tranquil, nothing disturbs our mental equilibrium. This is in line with the wisdom contained in Bhagwad Gita: Perform all thy actions with mind concentrated on the Divine, renouncing attachment and looking upon success and failure with an equal eye. Spirituality implies equanimity.

·       CHANGE OF ATTITUDE FROM NEGATIVE TO POSITIVE IS A SPIRIT OF VITALITY. If we draw out and utilize our internal dynamism/mechanism or inherent potential, then, we can have self realization or self awareness. Having attained self awareness, we imbibe all the positive traits by which we direct all our energies for realizing the purpose of our life. Know about our Bhagwanji by leading a righteousness life, feeling pain when somebody of our companion feels so, This realization brings us in close proximity with our Creator. Nothing makes us negative in our sojourn of life, hurdles for us are the stepping stones for ultimate success. Everything that we transact is done with the active participation of our Prabhuji. No hold barred. Peace so attained through personal experiences is a permanent one.

·       KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING WITH ENLIGHTENMENT ENHANCES PEACE. Knowledge is conscious awareness or understanding of a subject matter that is taken in hand. Knowledge or understanding may be with regard to the information and descriptions thereof about the origin of  thing, its usefulness and subsequently connection with other objects of the nature and beyond. During this information gathering, we come across so many hurdles, experience them under different space and time. After understanding the thing at hand may be theoretical and practical in nature. Complete understanding of a thing in hand  gives us leeway to act accordingly. Those who are self aware know how best to use the knowledge gained under different circumstances to reach to a conclusion for a healthy living with peaceful co-existence with person concerned and the surrounding in which that person is living.

·       EGO IS THE IMPEDIMENT OF PEACE OF MIND. When we are engulfed with ego then we may get some respite momentarily but ego is enemy of permanent peace.

·       PAIN  AND PLEASURE PART OF OUR LIFE. It should never be forgotten that admix of pain and pleasure are part of our life. When permanent balance is established then we can have permanent peace.

Conclusively, it could rightly be said that willpower (nishtha) and meditation (bhakti) with focused mind  help establish the abode of our Bhagwan Ji in our inner self and thereby permanent peace.

 

WILLPOWER (SANKALAP) MAKES HUGE DIFFERENCE IN OUR LIFE

STRENGTH OF WILL

When faced with discouraging state of affairs

With no breather in sight anywhere

Thence we’ve not to go afar for succor

For sure, it lies within us only

Just tap softly

Thy deepest recesses of  heart

Thee will hear a voice so tranquil

Keep heart, problems are created to be solved

Challenges are formed to be challenged

Sometimes with calmness

Other times with iron handedness

Fright from knotty situations

Is no longer any solution

Fighting head on firmly

 And acting  resolutely

Are the driving forces actually

Which will bestow God Speed to our sincere efforts finally

Because resolute mind will result in resolution

Of the vexing problem so faced

Approach of solution may slightly differ

From time to time and situation to situation

And Individual to individual per se

But we can hardly shy or run away  

From the catch-22 situation of our own creation.

Without a modicum of fight for a plausible solution

Yes, for every problem under the sun

There is a credible solution

It’ll not be found by being fearful

Self belief and belief on our Creator

Are the two likely helpful factors.

 

WILLPOWER (SANKALAP) MAKES HUGE DIFFERENCE

Willpower (Sankalap) is determination with which we undertake to perform our duties with single mindedness of purpose and with focused attention for fructifying the job in hand.  The trait of willpower can be learnt and imbibed by following a life of sincerity, with sheer dedication, following a disciplined life and above all with self-awareness that whatever Karma we perform will come back to us. Kukarma brings about bad results and good Karma results in favourable results. Strength of will is generated by harnessing our internal potentials. In other words, willpower is the strength of our mind.

WILLPOWER GIVES US STAYING POWER

Yesterday, I was feeling very hot because of typical weather condition; hot and humid state with surging temperature; and there no rains for the last many days made the weather still hotter. Walking in the hot sun was virtually very difficult with no respite from the scorching heat. In this sort of sultry environment, people usually sit in the comforts of their AC rooms or in AC offices to escape from the fury of high temporary. But travesty of fact is that we can sit in the comforts of air conditioned environment all the time because we are constrained to perform our various duties for our family or to face the realities of life head on.

While walking, in the hot sun, feeling all the affects of heat, drenched in perspiration, my eyes got riveted on two labourers who were mixing cement, concrete with hot sand. I wondered how those people were working in the hot sun without any complaints. There was not even an iota of feeling or regret about the pestering and persistent heat! This made me to reflect that everything – heat or cold, good or bad is in the domain of our mind. If one determines to withstand anything and everything there is no limiting factor. In other words our mind limits our perspective.

WILLPOWER AND NATURAL LIVING

It is also a fact that if we live just naturally, face what it comes, as per the time and space then we may not face any difficulty. A person who lives naturally live without any fear. He has his defences ready for meeting any contingency as it come rather than waiting for its resolution. Waiting for solving any problem means procrastination and that is one of the worst thing that could happen to us.

WILLPOWER DEVELOPED IN THE CHILDHOOD STAGE ITSELF

It must be remembered that the foundation of willpower is developed in the childhood itself by the parents. They should ensure that their offspring express their problems themselves fearlessly, act without fear and also should be taught to face the challenges of life without inhibition. Along with this, they should also be taught when to withdraw and when to fight it out. In the latter stage of life they grow up to be youth men with confidence.

WITH WILLPOWER AND BELIEF IN OUR ISHWARA WE CAN DO WONDERS IN OUR LIFE

A few days back there was an accident of one of our female teachers – the best computer teacher who with her changed the destinies of her students. She exercised control over her class and her felicity of expression created immense interest in the students which spoke volumes on her  lesson planning and delivery, encouraged students to ask questions and clear their doubts and made even the most difficult lesson easy to to comprehend. Obviously the students waited with bated  breath for her period.

It so happened that a cab driver, in an inebriated condition, hit  scooter which was being driven by her husband. She fell down the scooter, the cab driver did not stop but to the contrary dragged her for quite sometimes in the process creating grievous injuries to her person. This heartless inhuman person did not stop his cab even after injuring her severely. She was taken to hospital in an unconscious condition and admitted in Intensive Care Unit. Despite her most critical health state, she exhibited her strength of mind coupled with staying power and showed improvement signs from day one of her admission in the hospital. This could happen only with the blessings of WAHE GURU JI with whose blessings and graces unpredictable could happen.  He is the One who generates will to survive for His creations – that is what I can sermon.

YOGA HELPS US TO DEVELOP OUR WILLPOWER

It has rightly been said in Bhagwad Gita that our willpower is developed through Yoga, which is related to physical, mental and spiritual practices. It sustains our life by providing willpower in the mode of goodness. Willpower is the strength of our mental power and assists us to pull on despite hurdles that come in our path. Our determination also keeps us focused on our destination and helps gather together our inner potentials of inner self to achieve our higher goals in life.

Through the practice of Yoga, we develop three types of determination. We learn to exercise control our mind thereby our senses and subsequently our body. With the control over senses, we can exercise control over our life’s activities. We can thus perform Sattvic deeds (mode of goodness) rather than being Tamsic or Rajstic.

CONFIDENCE IN OUR OWN SELF

Confidence is the belief or reliability that we possess in ourselves. We have this trust when we are self aware. Self aware means to know our pluses and minuses. Then we endeavour to turn our minuses into pluses with self effort. It may be through trial and error method. Failures will surely be there but with persistent efforts and with grace of God minuses will turn into pluses. In this pursuit, we should not forget that some hurdles will be coming in the way and those are to be surmounted with self belief and self assurance. If we have indomitable belief in our abilities we will certainly succeed. While we have gained our self confidence to a limit, our effort should be to experience more and learn more from the experiences. Ultimately will shall have will take on any situation or circumstance. This is due to willpower (Sankalap) that is gained over a period of time. Having gained willpower hardly means that we turn egoistic about it. We can attain peace only when success does not overpower of head. Success should not go to our head. Experiences and success in life should make us humble.

Holy Quran proclaims: And, indeed, long ago We made Our covenant with Adam; but he forgot and We found no firmness of purpose in him.

One of the best trait for creating resolute mentality comes by adopting sincerity, honesty and doing one’s duty with dedication without fear or favour.                

FOLLOWING SPIRITUAL ORIENTED LIFE BRINGS ABOUT RESOLUTE MINDSET

Spiritual inclined life means to follow a life with or without religious orientation but with purity in knowledge, purity in thoughts and actions without any fear, purity in perception, purity in desire, with compassion for others etc. In other words, whatever path a spiritualist takes follows truthfully, without any inhibition, with positive attitude, with a sense of sacrifice, giving without any expectations, performing duties with fervor and also contributing holistically for growth of body, mind thus help reform himself/herself meaningfully. When we live in spiritual oriented life, then we can have enough willpower to face life’s challenges with all the potential at our disposal.

It has rightly been said in Holy Bible that the the Lord is my strength and my shield, my heart trust in him and he helps me , my heart leaps for joy and with my song I praise him.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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ON PATIENCE IN OUR LIFE

ON PATIENCE IN OUR LIFE

Patience is a state of being when we  tolerate other unethical attitudes and behavior coolly, when no situation or no irritant can affect us, when no pain or suffering could adversely impact our equanimity, when we do not feel angry on others irritating demeanor, etc. Besides, it is a condition when we do not complain others’ provocations but face the facts squarely. Patience despite irritants is a proof of patience.

PATIENCE SHOULD SPRING FROM OUR INNER SELF

It should always be remembered that patience springs from our inner being. It is not an external show of self-control but in actual practice it is not so when tested on ground. We must have seen some people feeling restless on silliest pretext and make spectacle of themselves in front of others. 

IMPATIENCES AND ITS CONSEQUENCES

We can imagine the predicament how impatience works while one is provoked by as flimsy ground due to sudden grazing of two vehicles  in the traffic jam and resultant flare up leading to even deaths due to one firing the other occupant! There are so many instances when we go lose our patience and in anger do something which may lead to unpredictable consequences.

OUR YOUTH & PATIENCE

We know what can impatience can result. At times, it could not only result in loss of face but worst of it all, could prove to be fatal if the other party too behave impatiently. There are the cases where people have lost their lives on petty and inconsequential matters.

PEOPLE WORKING IN THE PUBLIC GLARE SHOULD HAVE RESERVE OF PATIENCE

Experience is a guide to prove that those people who work for the welfare of the general populace, including politicians,  should have sufficient reserve of patience, tolerance, perseverance and willpower to work hard to come to the expectations of the general masses for which they are working.

I had the personal experience in this context a few days back. I had gone to meet our Area Councilor, for lodging a complaint related to a civic matter for propagating the idea of Swachh Bharat. Unfortunately, the concerned Area Councilor had gone to meet some other commitment in the other locality. I observed that a young man (named Mr. Paras Chopra – the son of the Area Councilor) was entrusted with the responsibilities of solving the civil/general public related issues viz, pension to the aged and infirm, register different complaints of public and order on the spot instantly for solution / deliverance.   

I was obviously impressed by this young man’s tenacity in handling / attending to different complaints besides contacting different officials for fructifying their different tasks. It was about 1:30 PM, I learnt that he so much so he was engrossed in his duties that he had not taken even his breakfast! He attended my complaint, ordered the concerned person to look after the complaint. Low and behold, the person concerned reached the spot before I reached the spot! Praiseworthy indeed! The amount of patience and persistence along with tenacity he exhibited was obviously laudable. I appreciate his patience and am very sure that he will reach a pinnacle of success; while rendering help to the general masses. Two hoots for this young man. India needs such young blood for rendering welfare measures. If we nurture such young men they will grow to be proficient personalities who are compassionate and patiently and persistently handle public related welfare measures.

PARENTS AND THEIR OFFSPRING

It has also been experienced that while teaching our children the importance of value system, the parents have to follow nitty-gritty of cool composure and tolerant attitude; leaving annoyance in the back-burner of our mind. It is because what the parents transfer to their offspring counts a lot. Parents are the first Gurus of their children and It should always be remembered by the parents that giving quality time to their progeny with patience and persistence becomes a first step in shaping the destinies of their children. They should try their best to instill patience and other related value systems in their children.

PATIENCE REQUIRED IN FINALIZATION OF BUSINESS DEALS

We also must have observed the people losing themselves while negotiating an important deal in business sphere, where cool temperament could go a long way, slightest impatience could impair the smooth clinching of negotiations and may prove counterproductive.

PATIENCE SHOWN BY TEACHERS FOR SLOW LEARNERS IN SCHOOLS

Then in our schools, the teachers have to show exemplary patience with their students who are slow learners. There are students who learn very fast, there are ones who require some prodding for their studies while there are ones who require considerably more time and attention to make them understand the topic to be taught. Here the teachers have to have adequate patience, persistence along with honest efforts to make them study and make it possible to make them at par with intelligent  students.

STUDENTS FROM LOWER STRATA OF LIFE TO MAKE CONCERTED EFFORTS TO REALISE THEIR DREAMS

As in this age group there is a lot of impatience and and irritation at any sorts of provocation, the youth are to be trained to face hardships and come out unscathed. Patience is the state of endurance or tolerance under stressful situations and circumstances. The youth of today have to be trained to act despite When provocations to this age group do not deter the youth from making this age group steadfast, possessing forbearance when under umlauting circumstances.

YOUTH AND IMPATIENCE

The youth is a period when there is prevalence of impatience in whatever they want to perform, to do something spectacular, liveliness, they showcase a lot of excitement in whatever they do, exhibit the traits of fearlessness despite some hurdles etc. This is also an age when there is also prevalence of defiance. But one common meeting point is that in this age they are full of energy. Need is to adopt ways and means to channel in the right direction for getting maximum benefits. The latent energy in the youth should be utilized for productive pursuits rather than destructive ones.

HOLY  QURAN PROCLAIMS: Seek Allah’s help with patient perseverance and prayer. It is indeed hard except for those who are humble.

REACTIONARY TRAITS

It has also been said that at this age, generally, the youth are reactionary in nature; reasonably or unreasonably sometimes. Given this point, our emphasis should to know and understand them fully and visit different options in order to reorient their attitude to play a more positive and constructive role as a student first, learner and a good citizen who has to shoulder the multiple responsibilities after his youth stage is over.

There may be initial hiccups or drawbacks but with since and best efforts youth could contribute not only for their growth and development but also set an example for others around.

In one of the forums, when I persisted that we can conveniently persuade this age group people to contribute positively not only for themselves but also for others around. One of the gentlemen was skeptical about change in frame of mind of the youth of the day because of his experience posed me two questions:   viz: 1. what makes you so sure that the advice given by you is right. 2. How do you know that your advice is even wanted?  To which I replied:

 I am of the view that if we make concerted and sincere efforts to understand the youth fully, including the environment in which they are living, we can make huge difference for their all round growth and development.  As older members of the society, we  may differ in our views based purely on the experiences gained over the years with youth. But one meeting point is that in this age persons concerned are full of energy; but this energy has to be channeled in the right direction for getting maximum benefit. There may be initial drawbacks but with best efforts youth could contribute not only for their growth and development but also be an example for others round. Now, coming to your questions:

 Second question: As far as the question of my advice being wanted or no? Although this is a hypothetical in nature yet, I can say with conviction that we have to first understand the environment in which the target youth are living including other particular problems faced by the group. Know these, gives us cursory overview. One can be in the category of ‘wanted’ , if we are sympathetic to the needs and also one has to have magnetic force in the person concerned. If I say that I’ve changed youth, but in my life while working in educational institutions, I have taken care of this age group and they have willingly come to discuss their problems and with God’s grace things worked out fine.

HOLY BIBLE SAYS: The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.

YOUTH AND SPIRITUAL ORIENTATION

Given that the youth is a period when they feel impatience and  annoyance at slightest provocation, it is   important that their latent energies are utilized in right direction. For this, they should be inspired for following a spiritual oriented life means to follow a life with or without religious orientation but with full conscious of  purity in knowledge, purity in thoughts and actions without any fear, purity in perception, purity in desire, with compassion for others etc. In other words, whatever path they follow, they follow truthfully, without any inhibition, with positive attitude, with a sense of sacrifice, giving without any expectations, performing our duties with enthusiasm and also contributing holistically for upliftment of body, mind and soul and enduring peace and re-formation of life.

BHAGWAD GITA TELL US: Lord Krishna tells Arjuna that there are three modes of the material nature; goodness, passion and ignorance, become self realized, possess pure spiritual consciousness and perseverance and patience.

 

 

 

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ON REMAINING MINDFUL IN OUR LIFE

 

ON REMAINING  MINDFUL IN OUR LIFE

Mindfulness is akin to awareness about anything and everything that transpires in life. If we are mentally strong and fully aware of our thoughts and actions thereof then result will always be positive. This will also save us of stress and strains of life.

Mindfulness and awareness are therefore inter-connected. It relates to our inner state. It is internal state which is instinctive in nature. Here consciousness has little or no role but it could be termed as extended consciousness. It is because the awareness is away from the capacity of  brain, its thoughts and understanding of brain. A condition of being aware means to know. It is integration of sensations from the environment and relates to goals and feelings for the overall benefit of the person concerned.

If we want to feel good and feel happy presently and make it a priority then we can surpass any hurdle that may crop up. In this state, we are empathetic towards others and at peace with ourselves.

Past is the time which has passed, dead presently and will not come back along with its happenings which had happened cannot be retrieved. It is like a deadwood with no hope to come back. We cannot rewind or reverse the past time. We can term it dead past. We can only reminisce the happenings, good or not so good which have happened thereby get experience of all those happenings. But a word of caution, we should not remain too much attached to those happenings of the dead past.

In the similar manner, the future is uncertain. It can only be imagined presently but cannot be lived presently / now but the seeds of future could be sown truly in the present moment. Here comes the persistence in remaining steadfast despite hurdles to work sincerely at the present moment with total belief on our Ishwara. Mindfulness at the present moment for the following brings about paradigm shift in our approach to lifestyle. 

If we are aware that present is the only time we are truly having then we can change our thoughts from negative – away from feelings of unhappiness, bereft of anger or frustration. These feelings take place when we live the present moment without regard to dead past and unpredictable future. We can be mindful at the present moment.

BEING MINDFUL HAS THE FOLLOWING IMPLICATIONS:

·       Internal  experiences in mindfulness. Mindfulness brings us closer to our inner self as these happenings are taking at  this moment itself. This could conveniently be done through meditation and other mind boggling positive practices.

 

·       Mindful make it possible to retract from wrong steps in life. When we have imbibed the quality of mindfulness, we then are in total control of our mind and whenever we take a wrong step our inner cues prevent us from retracting our steps and follow the right course.

 

·       Mindfulness helps us cultivate positive attitude. As we perform all the tasks in hand mindful of its consequences, we always remain positive in our approach with positive attitude.

 

·       Mindfulness is not difficult. In order to be mindful, we have to be positively oriented in our actions and deeds which results in ease of doing our duties without any doubt.

 

·       Mindful for joy in giving. It has rightly been said in Bhagwad Gits, when we meet others needs, we are actually fulfill our humane duties as human beings. Joy of giving gives us satiety and a purpose to our life. Mindfulness gives us wherewithal to help others not only financially but also psychologically too.

 

·       Harmony with reality. We all should live in harmony with nature, with the people we are living besides harmony which helps us understand and make us aware of own self.

 

In Bhagwad Gita it has been said that one who is mindful of his  thoughts and deeds attains peace. He enters any place without creating any disturbance just when river enters ocean without any disturbance. And also, one who does not heed material possessions attains peace of mind.

 

·       Importance of present moment. Present moment is infinitely important. What happens now is more important than what will happen in near future or what had happened in the past.

 

·       Prevention of helplessness for mental and emotional responses. Since we are mindful of the our duties and responsibilities we face no difficulty when some unpredictable happening takes place.  Lack of helplessness and control over our emotions results in peace and tranquility in our life. In such contingency life becomes a challenge, admix of good and bad experiences.

 

·       Focused mentality and productive thoughts could be attained through mindfulness. It should never be forgotten that marriage of focused mentality with productive thoughts lead to positively oriented lifestyle which obviates chances of  creation of negative mindset in the concerned individual. 

 

·       Mindful of the fact that  nothing is permanent. Happy moments do not last long so are the bad moments. This assertion solidifies our resolve to live a life of mindfulness with all positive attributes attached with it all.

 

·       Thoughts are created once in our mind and made practical through our actions. Our thoughts are created in our mind and then put to use significantly for overall good of the person concerned and the people around that person. 

 

·       Life should be considered as sacred and should not be scared. Mindfulness provides us an opportunity to think that our thoughts are very dear to us and sacred ones to be put to use for living a meaningful life. 

 

This has been clearly mentioned in Holy Bible: All life is sacred. Human life is especially so. Protecting it is of utmost importance to God.

 

·       Mindful of others aspiration and needs. While being mindful of our own needs and aspirations, it is in essence, important that we do so for others as well. This increases our horizon of thoughts and actions thereof.

 

·       Mindful of forgiving and forgetting others misdeeds. It should always be remembered, we as humans are not perfect, there is always something wanting. Therefore, it is essential that while performing our duties we are not unmindful of others’ needs and whenever and wherever we can we should forget and forgive others slip-ups. This has been mentioned in all the religious scriptures of all the religions.

It can rightly be concluded that mindfulness is linked with general well-being of an individual besides helping the individual to lead a healthy, moralistic and ethical life.It should always be remembered that Dharma and Karma which we adopt at the present moment

 

Holy Quran gives great importance while it emphasizes that mindulness is to shield oneself from all that displeases Allah. The mindfulness of faith (iman) is to shield oneself from eternal punishment through faith. The mindfulness of submission is to shield oneself from sin through obedience.

 

On the other hand, if we remain unmindful presently, it goes to show either we are living in the dead past or imagining about the unpredictable future for amelioration of our present state of affairs. Living in past and future without caring for present moment can bring about disharmony and a life bereft of peaceful existence.a