There were three days left for Riya to leave the country that showed her the other side of life. In her fast paced life, unconsciously she had missed to live every moment of her life. Riya realized how her busy work schedule had kept her away from life!
Michael had shown her a way. She wanted to take him along.
The day before she had to leave, she sat their wondering how she would propose to him. She was also a bit worried about her family; would they accept a foreigner as their son-in-law?
Michael came to the airport to see her off.
Riya wasn’t sure if this was the moment when Michael walked up to her.
“Riya, you made my days brighter. Thank you!”
“Michael, it is you who showed me life beyond survival. Come to India soon to capture life!”
“Now that I have a splendid host, I will”, and he smiled.
Riya sat in the flight drowned in thoughts.
“Why didn’t I tell him, I love him? Does he love me?”
She knew Michael liked her and that was enough for her. Michael had told her once, it doesn’t really matter in life how others feel for you, all that matters is how you feel for them.
She murmured under her breath, “I love him, and I will let him know.”
Michael and Riya stay connected in the virtual world. After 2 months Michael was sponsored to make a documentary on the lives of Milk-men in Aarey colony, Andheri, Mumbai.
Riya was excited. She was living a renewed life. The trip to the US had changed so much for her, yet nothing.
Michael’s trip to India was very short and he was busy with his shoot. They met for dinner one night at Colaba.
It was a beautiful night. The sky was filled with stars; the moon was hiding behind the clouds. Riya and Michael strolled along the marine drive intensely engaged in a conversation. It was quite chill and the gentle breeze was teasing Riya.
“Isn’t it beautiful Michael?”
“The night?”
“God’s trick on people!”
“What?!”
“I love you! Would you be my man for a lifetime?”
Michael looked up. He held Riya’s hand looked into her eyes.
When Riya first met him, he took her breath away and now her heart. He was piercing through Riya!
“Riya, I love you, but..”
************************
Dawn was breaking-in; Riya sat in her couch looking out through the window.
Michael never spoke to her after that day. Riya couldn’t handle the sudden void in her life. He came like a storm; swept her off her feet and now she lay like the left over debris.
She was agonizing herself by entangling in a chain of thoughts.
“God! How could he keep away from me? Doesn’t he love me? When did I lose myself completely to him? How could I let him do this to me? How could his absence tear me into pieces?”
“He can’t avoid me! He can’t...”
“Am I nobody without him? He brought in a bout of freshness in my life, he led me into beautiful meadow and now he is gone!”
“I love him…and all I wished for is life together. Why did he deny me that?”
She was crying. Riya couldn’t hold her tears back.
“I love him for who he is, even if he is terminally ill.”
She wiped her tears off, washed her face and changed her wet shirt. She closed the facebook page that she had kept open, and searched for tickets to Kansas, USA. She made a few calls and was ready to leave.
The clock in her bedroom showed 10 past 5 in the morning. She called Maya, “Hello Maya! I am sorry to wake you up so early…”
“Riya..Riya, is everything ok?”
“Yes, I have taken off from work and I need to report only on Monday. I am going to Kansas, USA.”
“Not official? “
“No.”
“What is the emergency?”
“My life! I am going to live my life. I am in love. I will come back and give you details.”
“Riya, I knew it was a man. Good luck!”
Riya rang the door bell.
Michael stood stunned.
“I love you.”
“It doesn’t matter to me if you are diagnosed with cancer. I …”
“Riya, understand…I don’t want to take the moments out of your life.”
“You already are..!”
“Cancer is a killer, the treatment is grueling. I don’t even know if I will survive…”
“Michael, I want to be part of your pain and pleasure.”
“Riyaa..”
“Michael, don’t you trust me? Together we can make every moment count!”
Riya tried hard to hold back her tears, “I am fully aware of the consequences of my decision. You make your life count by making films that will essay life! I want to make my life count by building memories of us together!”
“I want to give you happy memories.”
“You will Michael, let us live every moment, like you always say…Before it is gone!”
Michael held her close; and whispered into her ears, “I love you, together let us leave our legacy behind!”
“I love you, Michael. “
In the face of death, one begins to live!
Friday, September 30, 2011
Die hard love -- 1
Riya stood staring at the mirror, she couldn’t recognize herself. She collected water from the basin and held it in her cupped hands before splashing it hard on her face. Nothing changed. It didn’t even help clear her clouded mind.
“What has he done to me?”
“Why did I let him to do that to me?”
The phone rang.
She knew it wasn’t him and she didn’t want to talk to anyone. It rang again.
She slowly moved closer to the mobile and took a peep at the display.
Maya calling..
She held the phone and said,” Hello!”
“Huff! I finally get to speak to you.”
“How are you?”
“You tell me! Where have you been lately? Not picking up calls! Is everything alright, Riya?”
“Thanks for your concern! I am fine.”
“Your voice doesn’t say that. Can we meet sometime?”
“Not today. I am little busy, I will call you when I am free.”
“Riya!”
“Maya, give me some time, I will explain things later. Bye”
“Take care! Bye.”
Maya was Riya’s best friend. She couldn’t believe she was hiding it from her.
It was late in the night. Riya was sitting in the dark still confused. She had to report to work on Monday. Recently she has been very sluggish at work; there were lot of tasks pending from her end. Initially she was distracted by the buzzing events in her life, now by fear.
Last week her boss had summoned her.
“Riya let me get straight to the point. Ever since you are back, I see a decline in your productive output, is there something wrong?”
“No, Sir.”
“Riya, you are smart. We have seen you do tremendous work here and I personally have seen you grow in your career from the day you started here. If there is any ethical issue at work, don’t hesitate to tell me. “
“It’s a personal problem.”
“Oh! Don’t let it affect your work. With appraisals around the corner, this kind of output from you will affect your growth. Is there anything I can do to help you?”
“No sir, I will be fine. Just give me some time.”
“Ok! You can take a day or two off, if that will help.”
“Thank you, Sir. I will join back work on Monday.”
Riya has been buying time from everyone in her life, but now she knows her time is up.
************************
It was 5 months back when she had gone to the US on work, she met him.
It was a new country and a bunch of new people; everything around was new. She was sent here to win a project for her company. She had a challenge ahead and she wasn’t comfortable in the new environment.
She had to depend on others for her smallest needs and that wasn’t Riya.
Riya was waiting at the lawn, for her colleague to pick her up to work.
The green pastures, fresh air and white swans in the pond soothed her emotions. Today was a big day! She had an important presentation to make, as she sat their collecting her written notes she noticed him playing Tennis in the background.
He caught her attention for more than a few seconds. She was transfixed; her eyes followed his run-up and her heart missed a few beats.
“Hi Riya! I am Vinod.”
She couldn’t cut back her vision to Vinod.
“Oh. Hi, I am Riya!” She looked lost.
“I know. Can we start?”
“Well! Yes.”
It was a busy day. Riya was introduced to her clients, and every time she shook someone’s hand, she could only envision being introduced to him.
She told herself, this is a significant day in her life and she had to be at it.
Riya’s presentation started, she put him in the background and took a deep breath.
The outcome of the presentation will be the fruit for her hard work.
She did exceedingly well.
“Job well done, Riya.”
“Thank you!”
“Vinod will pick you up at eight; we are having a dinner party tonight!”
The nervousness of the new place suddenly left her. She was inexplicably happy.
Riya sat in her portico, sipping coffee.
He walked up to her.
“Hi! I am Michael.”
“Riya”
It was like a dream coming true.
“I am a film maker. I make short films.”
“Oh! That’s fantastic!” She blurted out.
“I travel around to capture the lives of people in their own nests. It really brings color to life. “
Michael went on to add, “There are several emotions that surround a human life, the tiny things that upset someone brings happiness to another. It is incredible capturing the various moods.”
“I have heard India is land of stories – touching stories. I want to come there one day!”
“Yes! Absolutely. Indian society is widely divided; you have a Dhobiwala surviving on a meal day and a rich business splurging on his dinner at Taj living only miles away. India definitely has many tales up her sleeve.”
“Interesting! India is land of love and hate.”
“Much more!! India is land of laughter, envy, celebration, agony co-existing. “
“..And, a place of the ever evading serenity!”
“You love your country! Don’t you?”
Like India, Michael had a soul rendering history too.
It didn’t feel like she was talking to him for the first time. In the one month she stayed in that country, they spent every single evening together.
Michael helped her cope with her new environment. He told her stories about the community, the economy, the entertainment industry, and a lot more. He made her self-sufficient.
Riya knew where to pick her newspaper! The little things that make our everyday living effortless are best realized in a foreign land. She, now knew directions to the supermarket, she could even suggest a traveler where to dine in the new city.
He made her independent.
Riya and Michael enjoyed each other’s company. On weekends they went to the country side, Riya watched him shoot and aided him in his work.
“Why do you make films?”
“Ah! There is lot of intense moments in life which we fail to live. My lens captures them.”
He continued. “Every moment has a life. In our struggle to survive we miss the pulse of life, by making films I capture them forever.”
“I believe I will live through these films, even after I am gone.”
Riya was perched on a rock by the stream. The stream glittered in the moonlight. She could see the reflection of a cheerful, charismatic and calm Riya in the stream.
A Riya she hadn’t known; introduced by the man sleeping in the tent.
She was captivated more by the film-maker who gave rendition to life than the muscular tennis player she saw first.
She was in love.
Read Part-2 here.
“What has he done to me?”
“Why did I let him to do that to me?”
The phone rang.
She knew it wasn’t him and she didn’t want to talk to anyone. It rang again.
She slowly moved closer to the mobile and took a peep at the display.
Maya calling..
She held the phone and said,” Hello!”
“Huff! I finally get to speak to you.”
“How are you?”
“You tell me! Where have you been lately? Not picking up calls! Is everything alright, Riya?”
“Thanks for your concern! I am fine.”
“Your voice doesn’t say that. Can we meet sometime?”
“Not today. I am little busy, I will call you when I am free.”
“Riya!”
“Maya, give me some time, I will explain things later. Bye”
“Take care! Bye.”
Maya was Riya’s best friend. She couldn’t believe she was hiding it from her.
It was late in the night. Riya was sitting in the dark still confused. She had to report to work on Monday. Recently she has been very sluggish at work; there were lot of tasks pending from her end. Initially she was distracted by the buzzing events in her life, now by fear.
Last week her boss had summoned her.
“Riya let me get straight to the point. Ever since you are back, I see a decline in your productive output, is there something wrong?”
“No, Sir.”
“Riya, you are smart. We have seen you do tremendous work here and I personally have seen you grow in your career from the day you started here. If there is any ethical issue at work, don’t hesitate to tell me. “
“It’s a personal problem.”
“Oh! Don’t let it affect your work. With appraisals around the corner, this kind of output from you will affect your growth. Is there anything I can do to help you?”
“No sir, I will be fine. Just give me some time.”
“Ok! You can take a day or two off, if that will help.”
“Thank you, Sir. I will join back work on Monday.”
Riya has been buying time from everyone in her life, but now she knows her time is up.
************************
It was 5 months back when she had gone to the US on work, she met him.
It was a new country and a bunch of new people; everything around was new. She was sent here to win a project for her company. She had a challenge ahead and she wasn’t comfortable in the new environment.
She had to depend on others for her smallest needs and that wasn’t Riya.
Riya was waiting at the lawn, for her colleague to pick her up to work.
The green pastures, fresh air and white swans in the pond soothed her emotions. Today was a big day! She had an important presentation to make, as she sat their collecting her written notes she noticed him playing Tennis in the background.
He caught her attention for more than a few seconds. She was transfixed; her eyes followed his run-up and her heart missed a few beats.
“Hi Riya! I am Vinod.”
She couldn’t cut back her vision to Vinod.
“Oh. Hi, I am Riya!” She looked lost.
“I know. Can we start?”
“Well! Yes.”
It was a busy day. Riya was introduced to her clients, and every time she shook someone’s hand, she could only envision being introduced to him.
She told herself, this is a significant day in her life and she had to be at it.
Riya’s presentation started, she put him in the background and took a deep breath.
The outcome of the presentation will be the fruit for her hard work.
She did exceedingly well.
“Job well done, Riya.”
“Thank you!”
“Vinod will pick you up at eight; we are having a dinner party tonight!”
The nervousness of the new place suddenly left her. She was inexplicably happy.
Riya sat in her portico, sipping coffee.
He walked up to her.
“Hi! I am Michael.”
“Riya”
It was like a dream coming true.
“I am a film maker. I make short films.”
“Oh! That’s fantastic!” She blurted out.
“I travel around to capture the lives of people in their own nests. It really brings color to life. “
Michael went on to add, “There are several emotions that surround a human life, the tiny things that upset someone brings happiness to another. It is incredible capturing the various moods.”
“I have heard India is land of stories – touching stories. I want to come there one day!”
“Yes! Absolutely. Indian society is widely divided; you have a Dhobiwala surviving on a meal day and a rich business splurging on his dinner at Taj living only miles away. India definitely has many tales up her sleeve.”
“Interesting! India is land of love and hate.”
“Much more!! India is land of laughter, envy, celebration, agony co-existing. “
“..And, a place of the ever evading serenity!”
“You love your country! Don’t you?”
Like India, Michael had a soul rendering history too.
It didn’t feel like she was talking to him for the first time. In the one month she stayed in that country, they spent every single evening together.
Michael helped her cope with her new environment. He told her stories about the community, the economy, the entertainment industry, and a lot more. He made her self-sufficient.
Riya knew where to pick her newspaper! The little things that make our everyday living effortless are best realized in a foreign land. She, now knew directions to the supermarket, she could even suggest a traveler where to dine in the new city.
He made her independent.
Riya and Michael enjoyed each other’s company. On weekends they went to the country side, Riya watched him shoot and aided him in his work.
“Why do you make films?”
“Ah! There is lot of intense moments in life which we fail to live. My lens captures them.”
He continued. “Every moment has a life. In our struggle to survive we miss the pulse of life, by making films I capture them forever.”
“I believe I will live through these films, even after I am gone.”
Riya was perched on a rock by the stream. The stream glittered in the moonlight. She could see the reflection of a cheerful, charismatic and calm Riya in the stream.
A Riya she hadn’t known; introduced by the man sleeping in the tent.
She was captivated more by the film-maker who gave rendition to life than the muscular tennis player she saw first.
She was in love.
Read Part-2 here.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Drakensberg – An Adventure seeker's delight!
Drakensberg is the highest mountain range in South Africa, situated in KwaZulu-Natal province. It is a wilderness area known for its trekking trails and Adventure activity. It is about 4 hours drive from Johannesburg that could take you away from the hustle-bustle of the city to the country side, tranquil and picturesque. I got to drive about 150 Kms on way to Drakensberg, one of my firsts on International roads. I found the Highway infrastructure here to be like that of the National highways (our new NHs) in India, rather should I say India’s NHs are as good as the South Africans only that our sign boards could be improved. It is not the infrastructure that gives you a great driving experience it is the lane discipline that everyone follows here which makes driving simple, speedy and safe! In India we got to trust ourselves as a driver, here we need to trust the others on road; one wrong move by anyone could send your vehicle go tossing up! You could speed at 120-140 Km/hr near blind spots, on roads that have no divider between the onwards and upcoming traffic, overtake trucks at curves and be assured that no one will ever come in your way.
Drakensberg is a world heritage center and a National park which has entrances from many sides. The region is divided into Southern, Central and Northern; one can imagine the vastness of this region! We had booked our accommodation in Ikahaya Lodge, near Bell Park dam in central Drakensberg, which means we could do/see things only in this area, as traveling to northern or southern region would take about another 1-2 hours of driving.
Many adventure camps operate out of Drakensberg, one gets to go Quad biking, Zip-lining, Abseiling, water kayaking /tubing (in the summer/after the rains), canopy tours and few more. I did zip-lining; it was fun, not a very long distance, neither was it very high but definitely worth your first experience!
After a day of adventure activities, we retired at our home stay – a beautiful farm tucked away in a serene milieu. As the sun went down and the darkness set in; leaving us at the mercy of the stars to lighten up our trail – one look upwards towards the sky; took our breath away! It was the most beautiful night sky I have ever seen in my life. I have always wanted to sleep under a glittering night sky and there I stood exasperated - Gorgeous! In the bitter cold, it was hard to lose yourself staring at her; we made fire and spent some time engulfed by her radiance!
We were up early for a trek into the National Park; we were at the Monk cowl’s end of the entrance into the Drakensberg heritage center. Trek trails are conspicuously marked, with a map outlining the difficulty of each trail. It is made so easy that no one would need a guide and there are no guides. We did one of the easiest trails to Sterkspruit waterfall and a pool nearby. The water was piercing cold; sat there chit-chatted a bit and headed out. The trek was quite easy, with a small kid in our group of six it was our best bet. The place is quite inviting and we did want to trek further into wilderness, but that would need at least one full day. Some of our friends were waiting for us at the home stay for our next activity - the horse trail, so we had to wind up though we promised ourselves an overnight camp the next time!
Nine horses were saddled up for us to take the trail up the mountain and down the streams. As we mounted the horses and got ourselves into reining the horses, instructions were given out on how we should ride them, take control and maneuver them around – didn't sound easy! We had two guides; one would lead the way and another to look over us, which meant we had to take care of our horses.
The name of my horse was Chief! He was busy grazing all the time before the start; I had a question – what if he wants to graze when we are on the run – the lady told me , “you are on the run, you are in command – hold him back, don’t let him graze”. Fact File: Horses graze 16 hours a day!
Here we go – initially it was fun getting used to the movement of the animal and gaining control of the reins. We were in a line as the horses followed each other in a particular order (we later came to know some horses are not compatible with others and females don’t like to be closely followed by males!) I involved myself in a conversation with Chief – He was listening to my instructions and riding me with grace. Few sections of the trail was exciting – riding up hill, crossing a very small stream and trotting! In South Africa, people can own their own game reserve; the place adjoining our farm was a game area. Interesting isn’t it? You could buy lions, probably cheetahs too and have your own reserve!
We were almost close to completion when Spa – the lead horse wanted to go for a run and went away for a real horse ride! As we stood waiting for our lead, Chief started grazing (He tried grazing on our trail too – I held him back all the while), initially I tried to hold him back and then I saw other horses graze too and let him graze. The grass was too low and he had to bend a bit and in the course I let the reins slip out of my hands!! Uh-Ah, the reins were gone, I tried to catch the attention of our guide who was busy capturing us on camera. As I kept saying “I left my reins, I left my reins” Chief decided to run – Ouch!! There was rush of adrenaline; he shook me up quite literally that I could feel my stomach muscles twitch. My mind said,” I am going to fall any moment” as my lips were saying “I left my reins”! As chief ran forward, his head moved backwards and the reins came up and I held on it – the defining moment. I held him back and said “Hold on Baby! – Stop”. He did and I sighed a breath of relief. It would have lasted only about 10-20 seconds but enough to wobble you up. I regained my composure and we happily trotted back to the stay.
We were towards the end of another exciting, engrossing and entertaining trip. On our way back, I noticed something quirky – all the electrical poles in the countryside were of wood [Picture inserted] isn’t that an economical way? We could save on the metal cost; should propose that back home.
Travel Info:
Drakensberg is a Trekker’s delight. Like I said, there are many trails from several entry points to the National Park, Hence one could go there again and again until one explores it all.
It is ideal for people who enjoy Nature, Serenity (who doesn’t?), Trekking, Hiking and Adventure activities.
I would recommend Ikahaya Lodge for stay – Pleasant. There are many places to stay around.
We missed to see the much acclaimed Bushman cave paintings of Drakensberg due to the fact that none was close by. It is in the norther region.
Best Season to visit – Summer (when after the rains it is all green!), Winter (to see snow clad peaks)
Weather gets unpredictable when trekking to higher regions.
Drakensberg can provide you an absolute experience with nature and wilderness!
Drakensberg is a world heritage center and a National park which has entrances from many sides. The region is divided into Southern, Central and Northern; one can imagine the vastness of this region! We had booked our accommodation in Ikahaya Lodge, near Bell Park dam in central Drakensberg, which means we could do/see things only in this area, as traveling to northern or southern region would take about another 1-2 hours of driving.
Many adventure camps operate out of Drakensberg, one gets to go Quad biking, Zip-lining, Abseiling, water kayaking /tubing (in the summer/after the rains), canopy tours and few more. I did zip-lining; it was fun, not a very long distance, neither was it very high but definitely worth your first experience!
After a day of adventure activities, we retired at our home stay – a beautiful farm tucked away in a serene milieu. As the sun went down and the darkness set in; leaving us at the mercy of the stars to lighten up our trail – one look upwards towards the sky; took our breath away! It was the most beautiful night sky I have ever seen in my life. I have always wanted to sleep under a glittering night sky and there I stood exasperated - Gorgeous! In the bitter cold, it was hard to lose yourself staring at her; we made fire and spent some time engulfed by her radiance!
We were up early for a trek into the National Park; we were at the Monk cowl’s end of the entrance into the Drakensberg heritage center. Trek trails are conspicuously marked, with a map outlining the difficulty of each trail. It is made so easy that no one would need a guide and there are no guides. We did one of the easiest trails to Sterkspruit waterfall and a pool nearby. The water was piercing cold; sat there chit-chatted a bit and headed out. The trek was quite easy, with a small kid in our group of six it was our best bet. The place is quite inviting and we did want to trek further into wilderness, but that would need at least one full day. Some of our friends were waiting for us at the home stay for our next activity - the horse trail, so we had to wind up though we promised ourselves an overnight camp the next time!
Nine horses were saddled up for us to take the trail up the mountain and down the streams. As we mounted the horses and got ourselves into reining the horses, instructions were given out on how we should ride them, take control and maneuver them around – didn't sound easy! We had two guides; one would lead the way and another to look over us, which meant we had to take care of our horses.
The name of my horse was Chief! He was busy grazing all the time before the start; I had a question – what if he wants to graze when we are on the run – the lady told me , “you are on the run, you are in command – hold him back, don’t let him graze”. Fact File: Horses graze 16 hours a day!
Here we go – initially it was fun getting used to the movement of the animal and gaining control of the reins. We were in a line as the horses followed each other in a particular order (we later came to know some horses are not compatible with others and females don’t like to be closely followed by males!) I involved myself in a conversation with Chief – He was listening to my instructions and riding me with grace. Few sections of the trail was exciting – riding up hill, crossing a very small stream and trotting! In South Africa, people can own their own game reserve; the place adjoining our farm was a game area. Interesting isn’t it? You could buy lions, probably cheetahs too and have your own reserve!
We were almost close to completion when Spa – the lead horse wanted to go for a run and went away for a real horse ride! As we stood waiting for our lead, Chief started grazing (He tried grazing on our trail too – I held him back all the while), initially I tried to hold him back and then I saw other horses graze too and let him graze. The grass was too low and he had to bend a bit and in the course I let the reins slip out of my hands!! Uh-Ah, the reins were gone, I tried to catch the attention of our guide who was busy capturing us on camera. As I kept saying “I left my reins, I left my reins” Chief decided to run – Ouch!! There was rush of adrenaline; he shook me up quite literally that I could feel my stomach muscles twitch. My mind said,” I am going to fall any moment” as my lips were saying “I left my reins”! As chief ran forward, his head moved backwards and the reins came up and I held on it – the defining moment. I held him back and said “Hold on Baby! – Stop”. He did and I sighed a breath of relief. It would have lasted only about 10-20 seconds but enough to wobble you up. I regained my composure and we happily trotted back to the stay.
We were towards the end of another exciting, engrossing and entertaining trip. On our way back, I noticed something quirky – all the electrical poles in the countryside were of wood [Picture inserted] isn’t that an economical way? We could save on the metal cost; should propose that back home.
Travel Info:
Drakensberg is a Trekker’s delight. Like I said, there are many trails from several entry points to the National Park, Hence one could go there again and again until one explores it all.
It is ideal for people who enjoy Nature, Serenity (who doesn’t?), Trekking, Hiking and Adventure activities.
I would recommend Ikahaya Lodge for stay – Pleasant. There are many places to stay around.
We missed to see the much acclaimed Bushman cave paintings of Drakensberg due to the fact that none was close by. It is in the norther region.
Best Season to visit – Summer (when after the rains it is all green!), Winter (to see snow clad peaks)
Weather gets unpredictable when trekking to higher regions.
Drakensberg can provide you an absolute experience with nature and wilderness!
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Jo'burg - An outsider's view
It is exactly a week since i landed here in Jo'burg. It's been slow, stoic and simple!
Johannesburg didn't sweep me off my feet. My first impressions were - a city that is a dream to many!
As one walks off the airport, it is the infrastructure of the place that first catches your attention. Jo'burg appears to be a well planned city that is considerably ready to take on development. Contrary to the perception i held that the city retires early, i saw quite some activity on the streets at around ten in the night. It wasn't desolate as i had expected :) It is true that many places shut their doors latest by eight, but still one can find vehicles. I am still wondering where they go, the days ahead might have the answer.
It was end of day two in a new city, i was staring out of the window pane as we were driving back home after dinner at a friend's place. I felt the city was missing something, i wasn't sure what.
I still haven't been able to connect with the people of Jo'burg, may be the lack of human touch makes me feel empty! I did get to speak to few people, i do not know how to word my experience. There is a mixed ethnicity to the city that would need considerable time to dissect into ;)
People in general are warm and friendly, am talking of the superficial contacts that one gets to make in the public places. I guess it is one of those things you pick up in an era of globalization.
The country's history has many incidents of crime reported. In spite of reduction in the crime rate, everyone exercises caution in their daily activities as there is quite an extent of crime that gets reported even today. As a visitor to the country it definitely puts you on the back foot.
Behind this mask there is an enduring human value.
I believe this country has a long history and an intense culture which would be absolutely interesting and engaging to learn. Before i embark on this quest, i need to find my grounding which for now seems little hard to catch sight of.
At the moment i will need to watch my back as i try to tear off the mask this city seems to be wearing!
Johannesburg didn't sweep me off my feet. My first impressions were - a city that is a dream to many!
As one walks off the airport, it is the infrastructure of the place that first catches your attention. Jo'burg appears to be a well planned city that is considerably ready to take on development. Contrary to the perception i held that the city retires early, i saw quite some activity on the streets at around ten in the night. It wasn't desolate as i had expected :) It is true that many places shut their doors latest by eight, but still one can find vehicles. I am still wondering where they go, the days ahead might have the answer.
It was end of day two in a new city, i was staring out of the window pane as we were driving back home after dinner at a friend's place. I felt the city was missing something, i wasn't sure what.
I still haven't been able to connect with the people of Jo'burg, may be the lack of human touch makes me feel empty! I did get to speak to few people, i do not know how to word my experience. There is a mixed ethnicity to the city that would need considerable time to dissect into ;)
People in general are warm and friendly, am talking of the superficial contacts that one gets to make in the public places. I guess it is one of those things you pick up in an era of globalization.
The country's history has many incidents of crime reported. In spite of reduction in the crime rate, everyone exercises caution in their daily activities as there is quite an extent of crime that gets reported even today. As a visitor to the country it definitely puts you on the back foot.
Behind this mask there is an enduring human value.
I believe this country has a long history and an intense culture which would be absolutely interesting and engaging to learn. Before i embark on this quest, i need to find my grounding which for now seems little hard to catch sight of.
At the moment i will need to watch my back as i try to tear off the mask this city seems to be wearing!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Dissecting India's democractic victory over corruption
In the history of independent India, 16th August 2011 and subsequently 27th August 2011 will be ear-marked as significant days that propelled our democratic rights.
Any movement in the world has people both for and against the issue, if there is something physically tangible in this world, then definitely it has two sides to it, if not more. I would like to go back a little in time and see why the people of India were forced to come on to the streets?
Few members of the civil society led by Anna Hazare wanted to fight corruption. There are many groups in India who have constantly been trying to fight corruption, but what made this group stand out? Direction! India against corruption and its members had done enough groundwork and were aware of the Lokpal bill that has been pending in the parliament for 46 years. To address any problem, one needs a solution, it just not enough to voice out. In my opinion we have had many voices against corruption earlier, but this group had a solution in the name of Jan Lokpal bill. The solution can always be debated.
They had a possible solution that could control corruption and made sure they went to the people of the country and educated them on the proposed solution. They finally had to take the suggestions to their elected representatives. They had to emphasis the effectiveness of the proposed bill as opposed to the bill waiting for resolution. The elected representatives were not interested. The civil society group went from one door to another knocking even at the doors of the Prime Minister, but to no avail.
In Indian democracy though we elect our leaders, both the citizens and leaders forget each other for the next 5 years. It was quite unusual for the elected representatives to see a group of civilians advising them on the bill to be passed. If democracy is by the people, for the people and of the people, then weren't we undermining our own powers?
Well, now that none of the elected representatives across the political class by majority were interested to encourage the civil society in drafting the bill, the members of the civil society had to resort to desperate measures to call for attention and so they did.
It was March-April when Anna threatened to Fast for the bill, that the political class turn around. Even back then, many of the civilians had no idea about the Lokpal bill. With the elections due in some of the states, the Govt in its desperate measure agreed to allow the civil society to sit for a Joint drafting of the bill. The government in my opinion had been acting in haste, in handling the civil society without any forthrightness or direction.
The Government or its patrons tried to tarnish the image of the civil society members, they tried to employ the divide and rule policy of the British, but they fail to realize times have indeed changed.
Both the members of the civil society and the representatives of the Government never got along. They held a very distorted perception of each other that couldn't change over days. The outcome of the joint drafting committee fell short of everyone's expectation. The Government tried to display high handedness and never made it appear like a collective effort, the govt bill remained and the suggestions from the civil society was never even looked at.
Of course, this angered the civil society and they began to threaten the Government again by setting deadlines.
The most absurd reactions from the Indian Government was trying to curb the peaceful protest by the people of India. I still don't understand how the Indian Govt thought it could get away with such an act. First imposing unreasonable conditions for the peace protest and fast and later arresting Anna Hazare before he began the fast.The Government still not sure of itself, continued to act in haste. They released Anna Hazare and allowed him to Fast. The Govt creates High drama only to give in later.
The Indian Government fueled the people of India.
It is after this act of the Government that many started showing interest in the Lokpal movement. More awareness was created. For the general public, it was not about Lokpal, it was about Corruption, the fight against corruption strengthened.
The thousands of people who came on the streets, came to show their dissent to the Government, their dissent not just towards the Govt Lokpal bill, but also towards the Governments inaction to curb corruption, their arrogance and stupidity in handling the sentiments of the people.
I had been to the field to support the movement and i can only say people knew why they were there. In contrary to the views people who stayed at home and work held, the people on the streets knew their purpose, else achieving what they have today would have been impossible. People were mature and responsible in their demands, and actions. They exercised their freedom with utmost responsibility!
Anna Hazare and the common man have the right to protest for their rights, similarly the Government has the right to say No, and we have a method to do both. Civil society knew its method well, the Government was clueless. If the Government had the will to fight corruption it would have found its way and wouldn't need to follow the civil society, sadly the Government lacks the intention.
The Indian Governments inadequate response to the widespread agitation irked many. Anna Hazare in his address to the people began to sound aggressive and came under the scanner of few. He had already become a Hero to millions that even if he was wrong with few words, he was forgiven.
Many questions were raised on the effectiveness of the Jan Lokpal bill, cynics were all around. There were others who said, change begins with you. Corruption is a mammoth issue, there has to be a beginning somewhere, let JanLokpal be the start.
In my opinion any solution can be made effective/ineffective by the people who are administrating the system. To start with we need to have strongly laid ground rules, and then the system needs to take care of the nuances. If we start by assuming, people will misuse, abuse and overuse their rights then we can never make a beginning. This applies to any system that comes in place, So do we have no constitutional bodies then ?
Finally the Government agreed to the demands of Anna Hazare and passed a resolution in the parliament. People's might won over the might of the Government.
The battle is only half won. I am not trying to be skeptical, but given the history of the Government in handling the entire issue, i still feel it has given into the pressure of the people, opposition and the media.
A sincere Government, with the welfare of the people in mind should have fought its stand. Few months back the same Government felt constitution needs to be amended, certain elements of Jan Lokpal would set dangerous precedent, it would be a parallel Governance can't just agree to it simply today. Our all the genuine concerns of the Government today vanished?
Some questions still remain unanswered:
1) If the Govt never had any intention to include any of the suggestions from the civil society, then why hold a joint draft?
2) If the Govt felt most of the suggestions provided by the civil society were in creating a parallel Governance and would threaten our democracy, then why did they agree now?
3) If the Govt had reasonable concerns over the issues, they why couldn't it come up with better solutions?
4) When almost everyone, both people against and for Anna's movement agreed that the Govt bill is a weak bill, why did the Govt try hard to push it?
5) Why isn't the Govt not being sincere in tackling corruption?
6) Why did the Government take such an hard stance?
7) How could the Govt stop someone from protesting peacefully for their cause?
8) Is this Govt sure of its actions? They seem to retract on their words and actions, how would the common man place faith in them?
9) How would the Government handle the implementation and maintenance of the Lokpal body?
10) Do we have to continue protesting at every stage for the Government to take effective actions?
There is some respite for now! This whole Lokpal movement has questioned the credibility of the Government and people have lost faith in their elected members. It has also brought the civil society together, made them more aware of their rights and power.
India is turning a vigilant society and it is only the beginning.
Any movement in the world has people both for and against the issue, if there is something physically tangible in this world, then definitely it has two sides to it, if not more. I would like to go back a little in time and see why the people of India were forced to come on to the streets?
Few members of the civil society led by Anna Hazare wanted to fight corruption. There are many groups in India who have constantly been trying to fight corruption, but what made this group stand out? Direction! India against corruption and its members had done enough groundwork and were aware of the Lokpal bill that has been pending in the parliament for 46 years. To address any problem, one needs a solution, it just not enough to voice out. In my opinion we have had many voices against corruption earlier, but this group had a solution in the name of Jan Lokpal bill. The solution can always be debated.
They had a possible solution that could control corruption and made sure they went to the people of the country and educated them on the proposed solution. They finally had to take the suggestions to their elected representatives. They had to emphasis the effectiveness of the proposed bill as opposed to the bill waiting for resolution. The elected representatives were not interested. The civil society group went from one door to another knocking even at the doors of the Prime Minister, but to no avail.
In Indian democracy though we elect our leaders, both the citizens and leaders forget each other for the next 5 years. It was quite unusual for the elected representatives to see a group of civilians advising them on the bill to be passed. If democracy is by the people, for the people and of the people, then weren't we undermining our own powers?
Well, now that none of the elected representatives across the political class by majority were interested to encourage the civil society in drafting the bill, the members of the civil society had to resort to desperate measures to call for attention and so they did.
It was March-April when Anna threatened to Fast for the bill, that the political class turn around. Even back then, many of the civilians had no idea about the Lokpal bill. With the elections due in some of the states, the Govt in its desperate measure agreed to allow the civil society to sit for a Joint drafting of the bill. The government in my opinion had been acting in haste, in handling the civil society without any forthrightness or direction.
The Government or its patrons tried to tarnish the image of the civil society members, they tried to employ the divide and rule policy of the British, but they fail to realize times have indeed changed.
Both the members of the civil society and the representatives of the Government never got along. They held a very distorted perception of each other that couldn't change over days. The outcome of the joint drafting committee fell short of everyone's expectation. The Government tried to display high handedness and never made it appear like a collective effort, the govt bill remained and the suggestions from the civil society was never even looked at.
Of course, this angered the civil society and they began to threaten the Government again by setting deadlines.
The most absurd reactions from the Indian Government was trying to curb the peaceful protest by the people of India. I still don't understand how the Indian Govt thought it could get away with such an act. First imposing unreasonable conditions for the peace protest and fast and later arresting Anna Hazare before he began the fast.The Government still not sure of itself, continued to act in haste. They released Anna Hazare and allowed him to Fast. The Govt creates High drama only to give in later.
The Indian Government fueled the people of India.
It is after this act of the Government that many started showing interest in the Lokpal movement. More awareness was created. For the general public, it was not about Lokpal, it was about Corruption, the fight against corruption strengthened.
The thousands of people who came on the streets, came to show their dissent to the Government, their dissent not just towards the Govt Lokpal bill, but also towards the Governments inaction to curb corruption, their arrogance and stupidity in handling the sentiments of the people.
I had been to the field to support the movement and i can only say people knew why they were there. In contrary to the views people who stayed at home and work held, the people on the streets knew their purpose, else achieving what they have today would have been impossible. People were mature and responsible in their demands, and actions. They exercised their freedom with utmost responsibility!
Anna Hazare and the common man have the right to protest for their rights, similarly the Government has the right to say No, and we have a method to do both. Civil society knew its method well, the Government was clueless. If the Government had the will to fight corruption it would have found its way and wouldn't need to follow the civil society, sadly the Government lacks the intention.
The Indian Governments inadequate response to the widespread agitation irked many. Anna Hazare in his address to the people began to sound aggressive and came under the scanner of few. He had already become a Hero to millions that even if he was wrong with few words, he was forgiven.
Many questions were raised on the effectiveness of the Jan Lokpal bill, cynics were all around. There were others who said, change begins with you. Corruption is a mammoth issue, there has to be a beginning somewhere, let JanLokpal be the start.
In my opinion any solution can be made effective/ineffective by the people who are administrating the system. To start with we need to have strongly laid ground rules, and then the system needs to take care of the nuances. If we start by assuming, people will misuse, abuse and overuse their rights then we can never make a beginning. This applies to any system that comes in place, So do we have no constitutional bodies then ?
Finally the Government agreed to the demands of Anna Hazare and passed a resolution in the parliament. People's might won over the might of the Government.
The battle is only half won. I am not trying to be skeptical, but given the history of the Government in handling the entire issue, i still feel it has given into the pressure of the people, opposition and the media.
A sincere Government, with the welfare of the people in mind should have fought its stand. Few months back the same Government felt constitution needs to be amended, certain elements of Jan Lokpal would set dangerous precedent, it would be a parallel Governance can't just agree to it simply today. Our all the genuine concerns of the Government today vanished?
Some questions still remain unanswered:
1) If the Govt never had any intention to include any of the suggestions from the civil society, then why hold a joint draft?
2) If the Govt felt most of the suggestions provided by the civil society were in creating a parallel Governance and would threaten our democracy, then why did they agree now?
3) If the Govt had reasonable concerns over the issues, they why couldn't it come up with better solutions?
4) When almost everyone, both people against and for Anna's movement agreed that the Govt bill is a weak bill, why did the Govt try hard to push it?
5) Why isn't the Govt not being sincere in tackling corruption?
6) Why did the Government take such an hard stance?
7) How could the Govt stop someone from protesting peacefully for their cause?
8) Is this Govt sure of its actions? They seem to retract on their words and actions, how would the common man place faith in them?
9) How would the Government handle the implementation and maintenance of the Lokpal body?
10) Do we have to continue protesting at every stage for the Government to take effective actions?
There is some respite for now! This whole Lokpal movement has questioned the credibility of the Government and people have lost faith in their elected members. It has also brought the civil society together, made them more aware of their rights and power.
India is turning a vigilant society and it is only the beginning.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Happy B'day Yahavi !!
Dear Yahavi,
Another year, and yet again we aren’t celebrating your birthday together. Happy Birthday Dear!! Miles apart, yet you fill our minds with your charismatic smile :-) Most of this year, we have been away from each other and I missed watching you grow. Nevertheless we have spent some precious time together and you never fail to impress me. Your mere presence at home energizes the entire space. I have enjoyed every bit of you; the mellowness I see when you stay occupied all by yourself, the restlessness I sense when your dear ones are not around, the casualness you try to flaunt immediately after you have been disapproved – and you are all of three years dear. You have indeed been born with innate qualities.
I would like to recall few special incidents that would stay engraved in memory. It was Diwali, raining and wet outside, I tried cajoling you to wear your footwear so you could stay on your own. You vehemently refused, a girl who loves to wear her footwear so that she can stay out refused. I was confused. I tried explaining to you many things and even tried to put a bolder face – you didn’t budge. Finally I left on the floor near home, stating, “You either go out with your footwear or stay here”. I quietly vividly remember how you wanted to run, yet looked at me from the corner of your eye and stayed there.
One night, when everyone at home tried to keep a stern face to let you know that we disapprove what you did, for about nearly an hour you didn’t mind us and were on your own trying to show us that you didn’t have a problem with our disapproval by being chirpy and happy, completely absorbed with your toys and your playmate – Dada. Quite a resolve lady. It was heart wrenching, when you finally came stood and looked at us expectantly, wishing we would just talk. It was indeed moving to watch you stand with tears brimming from your eyes and half willingly say ‘Sorry’. Oh dear you are the sweetest!
There are many more to the list dear. I believe you were disappointed when you returned from NewZealand and didn’t find Mama at home. I still don’t know why you refused to talk to Mama over phone in spite of me requesting you do so many times. I am not sure if it was just child pranks or you do hold an emotion associated to it. Either way, you know we love you where ever we are.
We wouldn’t be around in the coming days too; I only wish to see you and personally bid good-bye before I leave home. Let’s keep faith and believing the distance wouldn’t curb the exchange of love.
The world is an awesome place to be in, enjoy every moment of your life. Happy B’day! Wishing you abundance of Strength and resolve to explore your life, they way you intend to. Our prayers of peace and joy will linger in your space.
I only hope, writing letters to you on your Birthday doesn’t become a tradition ;) Wishing to be with you on your Fourth Birthday!
Love,
Aththai.
Hugs, kisses and fond B’day wishes from Aththai, Mama, Dada and all of us back home.
Another year, and yet again we aren’t celebrating your birthday together. Happy Birthday Dear!! Miles apart, yet you fill our minds with your charismatic smile :-) Most of this year, we have been away from each other and I missed watching you grow. Nevertheless we have spent some precious time together and you never fail to impress me. Your mere presence at home energizes the entire space. I have enjoyed every bit of you; the mellowness I see when you stay occupied all by yourself, the restlessness I sense when your dear ones are not around, the casualness you try to flaunt immediately after you have been disapproved – and you are all of three years dear. You have indeed been born with innate qualities.
I would like to recall few special incidents that would stay engraved in memory. It was Diwali, raining and wet outside, I tried cajoling you to wear your footwear so you could stay on your own. You vehemently refused, a girl who loves to wear her footwear so that she can stay out refused. I was confused. I tried explaining to you many things and even tried to put a bolder face – you didn’t budge. Finally I left on the floor near home, stating, “You either go out with your footwear or stay here”. I quietly vividly remember how you wanted to run, yet looked at me from the corner of your eye and stayed there.
One night, when everyone at home tried to keep a stern face to let you know that we disapprove what you did, for about nearly an hour you didn’t mind us and were on your own trying to show us that you didn’t have a problem with our disapproval by being chirpy and happy, completely absorbed with your toys and your playmate – Dada. Quite a resolve lady. It was heart wrenching, when you finally came stood and looked at us expectantly, wishing we would just talk. It was indeed moving to watch you stand with tears brimming from your eyes and half willingly say ‘Sorry’. Oh dear you are the sweetest!
There are many more to the list dear. I believe you were disappointed when you returned from NewZealand and didn’t find Mama at home. I still don’t know why you refused to talk to Mama over phone in spite of me requesting you do so many times. I am not sure if it was just child pranks or you do hold an emotion associated to it. Either way, you know we love you where ever we are.
We wouldn’t be around in the coming days too; I only wish to see you and personally bid good-bye before I leave home. Let’s keep faith and believing the distance wouldn’t curb the exchange of love.
The world is an awesome place to be in, enjoy every moment of your life. Happy B’day! Wishing you abundance of Strength and resolve to explore your life, they way you intend to. Our prayers of peace and joy will linger in your space.
I only hope, writing letters to you on your Birthday doesn’t become a tradition ;) Wishing to be with you on your Fourth Birthday!
Love,
Aththai.
Hugs, kisses and fond B’day wishes from Aththai, Mama, Dada and all of us back home.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Does science define reality?
Can Science explain it all? Science attempts to validate certain claims by verification. Science is limited by its discoveries, and so is the process of verification. Can one dispose the idea since we haven’t yet developed a process of verification? If existing equipment cannot help gauge what is to be observed, can we say the observable doesn’t exist?
Science is indeed maturing and in the past we have been able to derive empirical equations from already established scientific theories to prove a conceptual idea which becomes a fact. A fact remains indisputable until new findings emerge. The empirical findings themselves are subject to scrutiny, they remain proven unless disproved. Does existence vacillate around Science?
Science definitely makes life easy. A basic set of facts have been established, over which we can make new discoveries, and with every discovery the base principal is reinforced. It is a good reference point, but that cannot enforce us into believing it is the ultimatum.
If anything is observable in nature, then it needs to be investigated. Nothing should be repudiated before its verification. If something cannot be proven that does not mean it does not exist, it also needs to be disproved before hailing its non-existence. It is as important to disprove something as much as it is to prove.
Would you believe the presence of certain fact only if proven by Scientists substantiated by research papers that you never get to read or would you go by the personal experience of the fact? If one could experience gravity, you don’t need scientific proof of it? Do you? Similarly what is use of scientific finding that you can never experience? In my opinion anything observable in nature can be validated by Science one day, till then Science has to wait, not the occurrence of these observable trends.
Science can only govern reality, it can't define.
Science is indeed maturing and in the past we have been able to derive empirical equations from already established scientific theories to prove a conceptual idea which becomes a fact. A fact remains indisputable until new findings emerge. The empirical findings themselves are subject to scrutiny, they remain proven unless disproved. Does existence vacillate around Science?
Science definitely makes life easy. A basic set of facts have been established, over which we can make new discoveries, and with every discovery the base principal is reinforced. It is a good reference point, but that cannot enforce us into believing it is the ultimatum.
If anything is observable in nature, then it needs to be investigated. Nothing should be repudiated before its verification. If something cannot be proven that does not mean it does not exist, it also needs to be disproved before hailing its non-existence. It is as important to disprove something as much as it is to prove.
Would you believe the presence of certain fact only if proven by Scientists substantiated by research papers that you never get to read or would you go by the personal experience of the fact? If one could experience gravity, you don’t need scientific proof of it? Do you? Similarly what is use of scientific finding that you can never experience? In my opinion anything observable in nature can be validated by Science one day, till then Science has to wait, not the occurrence of these observable trends.
Science can only govern reality, it can't define.
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