It is election time in India and the political scene is nicely setup now. Being an avid follower of politics in India and world at large, I thought it will be prudent to actually take sides in this election and decide which party and person is better to rule India at this time.
Although India is a parliamentary form of democracy as opposed to USA which is a presidential form of democracy, recently political parties have started the practice of announcing their chief ministerial or prime ministerial candidates. BJP specially has been doing this consistently in state and central elections.
So here is my opinion on some of the candidates that are in the fray.
1. L K Advani
He has been the strong man of BJP and for long the think tank of the BJP. The duo of Atal ji and Advani has shaped the BJP and Jan Sangh earlier and taken the party to this level. Although, I have had several ideological differences with the BJP as a party, but I feel, Advani is the best person to lead our contry. His ideas and ideals are very praiseworthy and he has shown tremendous amount of credibility and commitment to the national cause. He is a true democrat at heart and a man who has been in politics for more than 5 decades, and has been in opposition for most of his political career. This itself prooves that he is not in politics for power and truly believes in "nation first" approach in his politics. At the same time he has performed reasonably well when NDA was in power for 6 years. His performance as home minister and later as deputy PM was very good and he did a lot of things, which if given more time would have succeeded. No mention of Advani would be complete, unless one talks about his controversial speech about Jinnah in Pakistan. He was misunderstood by his own people, but ultimately was vindicated, when the party and the so called pariwar accepted him as the PM candidate. I have immense respect for him for not backing out and maintaining his views.
2. Manmohan Singn
Manmohan Singh is probably the first non-political PM of India. He first came into limelight for his role in the 90's when he opened the Indian economy under the mandate given to him by the then PM Narsimha Rao. What he did then was the best thing that has ever happened to India. The events then really showed the country and world how a crisis can be turned into an opportunity and ultimately a reward for generations to reap. When he was elected as the PM (after Sonia bowed out of the race), the idea was that he will handle the governance part and Sonia Gandhi will handle the political component of the Central Govt. As it turned out, it is not possible to separate out the two. As happened in the case of nuclear deal, the PM was the only person pushing for the deal. For that I give credit to him. However, this govt under him has like other Congress govts, not done enough to tackle terrorism. The way Mumbai attacks were handled, left many questions unanswered. The biggest problem I see in Manmohan Singh is communication with public at large. I have never seen him interact with the media and convey his thoughts clearly. In today's world of internet and over communication, how can Manmohan Singh get away with such abysmal level of comunication? I don't think, in the end it has helped his govt or his personal image. He seems to be a bureaucrat/academician trapped in the political ramblings and looks totally out of place and out of touch with ground reality. He probably is a VERY good minister for finance, but can not lead the country.
3. Narendra Modi
Narendra Modi, another political heavyweight from Gujrat BJP is known for his "moditva" which I like to call as "macho hiindutva". Although he has done a lot of development work for the state of Gujrat and has turned the state into a engine of nationa's economic development, but how can we overlook the immoral acts that were done under his govt in the post Godhra riots? Specially, as till today, he has not shown the kind of remorse as is expected for a Chief minister of a state where the minorities were badly crushed and killed in what was proclaimed to be an act of state sponsored terrorism? So till he comes out clean on Godhra and is willing to take all the stakeholders (minority or majority) together and provides demonstrable justice to the people who were directly impacted in the riots, he will always find it impossible to be able to gain support of the entire country. To be a PM, he needs to be acceptable by larger sections of the society. So Mr Modi, for this reason alone, I would not support your PM claim at this point of time.
4. Rahul Gandhi
Rahul Gnadhi has a tremendous advantage (unfairly) because he has a Gandhi surname to use and hence has a lot of political capital associated with him by default. However, I don't think, he is even close to being ready for being the PM of this country. There are a lot of tests yet for him and he needs to demonstrate his capability, maturity and even understanding of the problems being faced by the country and what his thoughts are on the same. So Mr Rahul Gandhi, its time to get hands dirty and learn the realpolitik and the reality of the Indian state.
5. Pranab Mukharjee
He is probably the dark horse to be the PM in my opinion. He is the man who I feel is the only politician in Congress who has a vision, grasp, breadth, understanding of issues faced by the country today nationally as well as internationally. Unlike Manmohan Singh, he is a real politician as well and has been the savior of this govt politically. He was the person who was talking to the left during the entire time and has known to have good contacts across the political spectrum of India. Even Advani recently hailed Pranab da and praised him for his role. Internationally, he is the most visible face of India today. He has talked straight and in stern fashion with Pakistan and tried to convey the anger, frustration and disappointment of 1 billion Indian people in his conversations with diplomats and world leaders. If Congress comes to power this time, I really feel, he should be made the PM instead of Mr Manmohan Singh.
Considering all the factors, I feel, the only person who is ready at this point to be the PM of this country are either Mr Advani or Mr Pranab Mukharjee. Of the two I would support Mr Advani more than Pranab da, simply because Mr Advani needs to be given a chance to complete the tasks that were incomplete in the Vajpayee govt.
I wish my best luck to Advani and wish he wins the Indian elections which should be announced any time now.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Monday, December 8, 2008
Response to Mumbai Attacks
It has been close to a week now since we had the terror attacks in Mumbai. Now that the emotional rhetoric is settling down, we need to take steps to handle the internal angle and the external angle of the terror attacks. External angle is more difficult to handle as we still don't know what the exact reply to Pakistan should be. I think, war as an option should not be ruled out. Once the diplomacy efforts are done with, we should look into "hot pursuit" option. Though this is not going to be easy as what will we attack in Pakistan?
Besides, the war is not a comprehenive solution. The common example given in favor of war is to look at USA and Israel and the fact that since 9/11 there has not been any terrorism act against USA.
`
But that is factually not correct. There might not have been a terrorist act in America, but they have been in war since 2001 in Iraq and Afghanistan. And close to 4000 soldiers have died. In a way, the common man in streets of American has not died, but the soldiers are getting killed all the time. So in a way inspite of the war, Americans are still getting killed by terrorists. Besides, just imagine the impact it has had on US economy. No wonder, people are fed up of this war. Also, American is way out of reach of the Jehadists. Its geographic outreach has helped America, otherwise in the last few years, they have made the world more dangerous and polarized and has had no effect whatsoever.
Similarly we don't want to be Israel as its not as if the israelis are never killed. They keep getting killed in the constant war like situation they are in.
I think, we need to do the following.things as a long term solution.
1. Strong Anti terror Laws - Have strong anti terror laws and speedy trials, so the terrorists like Masoon Azhar can be tried quickly and hanged to death.
2. Strengthen our internal security which is abysmal right now. We are so vulnerable and have so many porous boundaries that the terrorists keep infiltrating.
3. Conversation among Religions - Develop an atmosphere where the religions are talking to each other. Recently Advani ji did a very good thing when he talked to the Christians regarding the killings in Orissa. The same should happen with the Muslims. Important thing is who do we talk to in Muslims. Recently the "Dar-ul-uloom" has said couple of very good things and they even asked the Muslims to not slaughter cows on eid. I think, we need to promote more of the moderate Islam. India has long had a tradition of what is called as the "Sufi Islam" and we have all grown up listening to some very good sufi music. We need to promote them and make sure a strong muslim middle class is created.
4. Inclusive Growth - Today our society is polarized. We have a huge divide between the"haves" and "have nots". We need to have policies which are more inclusive in nature and have a far greater reach. The Muslims have for various reasons not been able to be part of the economic success. I think, we need to make sure that not only Muslims but many other classes are also part of the economic success. World over the economics is moving from blatant captialism to a more "humanised capitalism", where many more people are brought under the "haves".
5.Communal Harmony - Make sure incidents like Gujrat are not repeated. I like Modi and what he has done for the well being of his state, but unless he takes all religions with him, he will never be able to be a pan indian leader. Even if Gujrat happens, we should make sure speedy trials and quick and fair justice. This will reduce the chance of muslims becoming more millitant.
6. Delink terror with religion - Just as if some disgruntled hindus exploded few bombs, the entire hindu community does not become a terrorist, same logic should apply to Muslims. Politicians should learn a very strong lesson. Two days before Karkare was killed, a famous politician in Indore questioned Karkare. Only 2 days later when karkare was killed, the same gentle man had the audacity to go to Karkare's place and offer 1 Crore Rs to his family?? Does he think the people are IDIOTS? I am very happy that the slain family did not take a penny from such a politician. Bottomline is terrorism has no religion and neither are all terrorists muslim.
I feel, India is the only country which can showcase such a unique model where we have all religions living peacefully and helping each other in nation building. That is how the "Sanatan Dharma" has always been and that is only how the sanatan dharma will continue to be Sanatan dharma.
I speak this as a true, proud and practicing Hindu.
Besides, the war is not a comprehenive solution. The common example given in favor of war is to look at USA and Israel and the fact that since 9/11 there has not been any terrorism act against USA.
`
But that is factually not correct. There might not have been a terrorist act in America, but they have been in war since 2001 in Iraq and Afghanistan. And close to 4000 soldiers have died. In a way, the common man in streets of American has not died, but the soldiers are getting killed all the time. So in a way inspite of the war, Americans are still getting killed by terrorists. Besides, just imagine the impact it has had on US economy. No wonder, people are fed up of this war. Also, American is way out of reach of the Jehadists. Its geographic outreach has helped America, otherwise in the last few years, they have made the world more dangerous and polarized and has had no effect whatsoever.
Similarly we don't want to be Israel as its not as if the israelis are never killed. They keep getting killed in the constant war like situation they are in.
I think, we need to do the following.things as a long term solution.
1. Strong Anti terror Laws - Have strong anti terror laws and speedy trials, so the terrorists like Masoon Azhar can be tried quickly and hanged to death.
2. Strengthen our internal security which is abysmal right now. We are so vulnerable and have so many porous boundaries that the terrorists keep infiltrating.
3. Conversation among Religions - Develop an atmosphere where the religions are talking to each other. Recently Advani ji did a very good thing when he talked to the Christians regarding the killings in Orissa. The same should happen with the Muslims. Important thing is who do we talk to in Muslims. Recently the "Dar-ul-uloom" has said couple of very good things and they even asked the Muslims to not slaughter cows on eid. I think, we need to promote more of the moderate Islam. India has long had a tradition of what is called as the "Sufi Islam" and we have all grown up listening to some very good sufi music. We need to promote them and make sure a strong muslim middle class is created.
4. Inclusive Growth - Today our society is polarized. We have a huge divide between the"haves" and "have nots". We need to have policies which are more inclusive in nature and have a far greater reach. The Muslims have for various reasons not been able to be part of the economic success. I think, we need to make sure that not only Muslims but many other classes are also part of the economic success. World over the economics is moving from blatant captialism to a more "humanised capitalism", where many more people are brought under the "haves".
5.Communal Harmony - Make sure incidents like Gujrat are not repeated. I like Modi and what he has done for the well being of his state, but unless he takes all religions with him, he will never be able to be a pan indian leader. Even if Gujrat happens, we should make sure speedy trials and quick and fair justice. This will reduce the chance of muslims becoming more millitant.
6. Delink terror with religion - Just as if some disgruntled hindus exploded few bombs, the entire hindu community does not become a terrorist, same logic should apply to Muslims. Politicians should learn a very strong lesson. Two days before Karkare was killed, a famous politician in Indore questioned Karkare. Only 2 days later when karkare was killed, the same gentle man had the audacity to go to Karkare's place and offer 1 Crore Rs to his family?? Does he think the people are IDIOTS? I am very happy that the slain family did not take a penny from such a politician. Bottomline is terrorism has no religion and neither are all terrorists muslim.
I feel, India is the only country which can showcase such a unique model where we have all religions living peacefully and helping each other in nation building. That is how the "Sanatan Dharma" has always been and that is only how the sanatan dharma will continue to be Sanatan dharma.
I speak this as a true, proud and practicing Hindu.
Monday, November 3, 2008
McCain Vs Obama - My thoughts
This is the first US election which I am observing and follwing so closely. USA being the world's most powerful democracy, this election has world wide implications. The world today is extremely polarized on all issues that matter. Be it the globalization impact, be it the policy to tackle extremism, or closer home be it regional/national chauvinism.
In such a backdrop, this US elections is not a normal election. The stakes are extremely high and the choices are equally tough. There are a number of factors which are influencing this race
1. The Bush Factor - George W Bush is the most hated figure today in the world. This is after 9/11 when the entire nation was with him and also got him elected again to complete the job to catch OBL. Today there is a strong anti incumbancy factor against him in particular and republicans in general because of the way they have handled the war on terror and the Iraq fiasco. Obama has a great advantage in that regard and his campaign has made sure that they keep giving the message that McCain is going to be an extension of Bush-Cheny duo.
2. The Economy - If Bush was a catastrophy for McCain, the economic crisis came as a jolt from the blue to him. The subprime crisis which culminated into the broader economic breakdown, made sure that the anti incumbancy against Bush sore to unimaginable levels. Obama was able to attribute most of the economy blues to republicans. McCain's "maverick reaction" of stopping the campaign and going to Washington did not bore well with the common man as he ended up bailing out the very people who were responsible for the mess. Another negative factor which is working in Obama's favor.
3. The Palin Factor - McCain chose an almost unknown Sarah Palin as his running mate. In the beginning the charming Palin was able to attract a lot of republican mass. She came across as a conservative republican, which McCain was not. But as time went on, it turned out that she was not prepared to be the VP candidate, forget having the presidential mantle. Interview after interview proved that she did not have the knowledge that a good VP candidate must possess. And though Joe Biden also made a number of blunders, the media chose to focus on Palin and her inability to name a newspaper she read, or her linking of economic crisis to "its about job creation". Palin has proved to turn away the independant voters which in a tight race like this are the major attractions for both campaigns. The acerbic nature of her campaign only turned them away from republicans. Yet another negative factor working in Obama's favor.
4. The Iraq War - The war in Iraq might has been a utter disaster throughout. Although the surge helped now, but to go to war against Iraq was a disaster which majority of Americans have absolutely rejected. McCain, obliged by the republican ideology has supported the war in first place and still continues a coercive millatry based foreign policy instead of a "diplomacy based" foreign policy. This has made the world a dangerous place and a extremely polarized place to live in. Obama showed good judgement by opposing the Iraq war and the need to focus on eliminating the apparatus of terrorism in Afghanistan/Pakistan duo. Another factor in Obama's favor.
5. OBAMA Mania - Amid all the negativities, surrounded in the world in general and USA in particular, Obama gives a hope that is simply put audacious. The way he has managed his campaign over the course of almost 2 years is spectacular. He has been able to beat "The race factor" which is such a big issue for Americans. His message of change reflects the state of mind of people today. All through out the campaign he has been consistent in his message of change and has laid out a broad ideology of reaching out to others. His foreign policy approach is also based on using "diplomacy" as a cornerstone of his foriegn policy and not relying solely upon brute millatry force to achieve the strategic goals. He is willing to talk to states like Iran also, which is good because the neo con notion of "Either you are with us or against us" has not worked in last 8 years. In all his public appearances, he has appeared as a calm, cool, composed and presidential by all means. His oratary skills are great, but he has also done well to not shy away from tough questions like his allegiance to his radical pastor Right or his linkage to Bill Ayers etc.
This does not mean, all his ideas are correct or that he will not make mistakes. Considering the enormous challenges, he will most certainly make mistakes. But because of his thought process and ability to reach out to people, even if he makes mistakes, he will be able to accept the mistakes, get over them quickly and get the correct advice from the people around him.
My Prediction
Considering the opposition candidate and his ideology and based on Obama's campaign, his ideology and personal traits, I feel Obama will win by a comfortable majority (if not a land slide). I hope he is able to bring the change tha the talks about. I hope better sense prevails throughout the world and we become less polarized and develop the much required ability to "Agree to Disagree", for that trait alone will ensure better times to come for future generations.
In such a backdrop, this US elections is not a normal election. The stakes are extremely high and the choices are equally tough. There are a number of factors which are influencing this race
1. The Bush Factor - George W Bush is the most hated figure today in the world. This is after 9/11 when the entire nation was with him and also got him elected again to complete the job to catch OBL. Today there is a strong anti incumbancy factor against him in particular and republicans in general because of the way they have handled the war on terror and the Iraq fiasco. Obama has a great advantage in that regard and his campaign has made sure that they keep giving the message that McCain is going to be an extension of Bush-Cheny duo.
2. The Economy - If Bush was a catastrophy for McCain, the economic crisis came as a jolt from the blue to him. The subprime crisis which culminated into the broader economic breakdown, made sure that the anti incumbancy against Bush sore to unimaginable levels. Obama was able to attribute most of the economy blues to republicans. McCain's "maverick reaction" of stopping the campaign and going to Washington did not bore well with the common man as he ended up bailing out the very people who were responsible for the mess. Another negative factor which is working in Obama's favor.
3. The Palin Factor - McCain chose an almost unknown Sarah Palin as his running mate. In the beginning the charming Palin was able to attract a lot of republican mass. She came across as a conservative republican, which McCain was not. But as time went on, it turned out that she was not prepared to be the VP candidate, forget having the presidential mantle. Interview after interview proved that she did not have the knowledge that a good VP candidate must possess. And though Joe Biden also made a number of blunders, the media chose to focus on Palin and her inability to name a newspaper she read, or her linking of economic crisis to "its about job creation". Palin has proved to turn away the independant voters which in a tight race like this are the major attractions for both campaigns. The acerbic nature of her campaign only turned them away from republicans. Yet another negative factor working in Obama's favor.
4. The Iraq War - The war in Iraq might has been a utter disaster throughout. Although the surge helped now, but to go to war against Iraq was a disaster which majority of Americans have absolutely rejected. McCain, obliged by the republican ideology has supported the war in first place and still continues a coercive millatry based foreign policy instead of a "diplomacy based" foreign policy. This has made the world a dangerous place and a extremely polarized place to live in. Obama showed good judgement by opposing the Iraq war and the need to focus on eliminating the apparatus of terrorism in Afghanistan/Pakistan duo. Another factor in Obama's favor.
5. OBAMA Mania - Amid all the negativities, surrounded in the world in general and USA in particular, Obama gives a hope that is simply put audacious. The way he has managed his campaign over the course of almost 2 years is spectacular. He has been able to beat "The race factor" which is such a big issue for Americans. His message of change reflects the state of mind of people today. All through out the campaign he has been consistent in his message of change and has laid out a broad ideology of reaching out to others. His foreign policy approach is also based on using "diplomacy" as a cornerstone of his foriegn policy and not relying solely upon brute millatry force to achieve the strategic goals. He is willing to talk to states like Iran also, which is good because the neo con notion of "Either you are with us or against us" has not worked in last 8 years. In all his public appearances, he has appeared as a calm, cool, composed and presidential by all means. His oratary skills are great, but he has also done well to not shy away from tough questions like his allegiance to his radical pastor Right or his linkage to Bill Ayers etc.
This does not mean, all his ideas are correct or that he will not make mistakes. Considering the enormous challenges, he will most certainly make mistakes. But because of his thought process and ability to reach out to people, even if he makes mistakes, he will be able to accept the mistakes, get over them quickly and get the correct advice from the people around him.
My Prediction
Considering the opposition candidate and his ideology and based on Obama's campaign, his ideology and personal traits, I feel Obama will win by a comfortable majority (if not a land slide). I hope he is able to bring the change tha the talks about. I hope better sense prevails throughout the world and we become less polarized and develop the much required ability to "Agree to Disagree", for that trait alone will ensure better times to come for future generations.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Chicago Musings - India and the nuclear deal.
As we speak, India is at a possible turning point in her history. We have to make a decision whether we do what is in our best interests or succumb to forces that want india to be in a state of self imposed poverty and lack of access to technology that will thrust us into a bright future for generations to come.
On one hand we have Left, which has a philosophy based on blind animosity towards the capitalistic US, is ready to give away the benefit that India can gain by signing a deal with USA. This kind of an ideology, which is not based on national interests is absolutely abhorable and should be discouraged.
BJP on the other hand is also not doing the right thing by not supporting the deal, which it had masterminded in the first place. The party with a difference is showing the kind of political myopia which is not expected of a nationalist party and is exactly the kind of polity which we as a nation must not support. BJP should take a cue from APJ Abdul Kalam and come out in support of the deal and nation's willingness to place itself on a path to success and greatness that India deserves and is capable of.
The only leader who stands tall amid all this is Dr Manmohan Singh. He has been consistent in his support to the deal and has been the force in making this deal a reality(as it seems). What is really commendable is the fact that he has done this single handedly, when his own party has had an inkling towards sticking to power and succumbing to the left. Congress did not have the courage to call left's bluff. And in doing so, it has made the PM look weak. It is only now when SP has no other option but to support Congress in view of its weakening base in UP, that Congress Party is backing the nuclear deal.
We the people of India deserve a lot more and better from our politicians and hope that some day the polity of our day will be driven by national interests and not clinging to power at any cost. The eternal optimist in me says Amen at the thought !!
On one hand we have Left, which has a philosophy based on blind animosity towards the capitalistic US, is ready to give away the benefit that India can gain by signing a deal with USA. This kind of an ideology, which is not based on national interests is absolutely abhorable and should be discouraged.
BJP on the other hand is also not doing the right thing by not supporting the deal, which it had masterminded in the first place. The party with a difference is showing the kind of political myopia which is not expected of a nationalist party and is exactly the kind of polity which we as a nation must not support. BJP should take a cue from APJ Abdul Kalam and come out in support of the deal and nation's willingness to place itself on a path to success and greatness that India deserves and is capable of.
The only leader who stands tall amid all this is Dr Manmohan Singh. He has been consistent in his support to the deal and has been the force in making this deal a reality(as it seems). What is really commendable is the fact that he has done this single handedly, when his own party has had an inkling towards sticking to power and succumbing to the left. Congress did not have the courage to call left's bluff. And in doing so, it has made the PM look weak. It is only now when SP has no other option but to support Congress in view of its weakening base in UP, that Congress Party is backing the nuclear deal.
We the people of India deserve a lot more and better from our politicians and hope that some day the polity of our day will be driven by national interests and not clinging to power at any cost. The eternal optimist in me says Amen at the thought !!
Friday, February 15, 2008
!!!! Happy BirthDay Divya !!!!
Dear Divya,
Wishing you a very happy birthday and a great year(s) ahead.
This is a very special birthday for her since not only is this the first birthday after marriage, she also completed 25. This is a very special birthday for me too, for obvious reasons.
Let me go back a bit in time to set this up nicely. I met Divya about 8 or 8.5 months back. In my search for my better half, i had met few girls, but somehow things never clicked (and now i know why). When mamma/baba told me about her, I was a bit indifferent to the whole thing to them(which was very typical of me then), but someohow felt, she might be the one. I went to Indore and she came with her parents and Chetan (her brother). After exchanging quick pleasentries, we decided to go out and chat a bit freely. So there we were, in the car going for a long ride.
In my typical fashion, I started talking about Indore and its weather to begin with(I always think, thats smart of me to strike a conversation :-)). And I could suddenly sense that she too had a passion for Indore. The conversation went on, and spanned across many topics like her office, my office, likes, dislikes, her idea about life, sports, hobbies, movies, music, dance(she was the one talking on dance and not me), relationships, friendship, family, values etc. And as we both were talking, our mind was analysing each others thoughts and mannerisms.
My first impression about her was she was a very down to earth person and got along very well with others. She did not seem to have any ego or air about her being.
My mind was reaching a conclusion slowly. We met once omre the next day and said YES. All the wait seemed to be paying rich dividends for me. Divya came into my life and we had a "Chat pat Byah". Everything happened very quickly. Within a month we were married on 11th of July 2007(A Monsoon Wedding as I like to call it). Miracles do happen and dreams do come true.
Everyone including me (more importantly!!) was very happy. As per my resolution, I was able to move on and start a new life with Divya. It was and is great to have her together. We gell with each other very well and are very happy (touch wood) ! Although, it has been just 7 months, it seems we know each other for a long time. i would give that entire credit to Divya since she gets along so very well with everyone in family and is such a fun person to be with. She is down to earth, friendly, humorous, lively, enthusiastic and most importantly knows how to take everyone together. These were precisely the things which I wanted in my life partner.
As time has gone by in last 7 months or so, my impression about her has not changed since the first impression I formed about her. She is great at socializing with people. The vibes that you get out of her are friendly and have a very soothing effect on your psyche. No wonder, she has a huge friends list. i have realised in last 7 months, how much her friends mean to her. As I have realised, her friends also value her immensly. Besides other things, she is a great singer and an even better dancer. She makes some amazing food (her cooking has improved tremendously since she came to US).
Well, to cut the long story short, it has been an immense pleasure to be with her. I am happy with life again and am looking forward to life ahead. I was very doubtful about arranged marriage and how it will turn out to be for me. I can say with full confidence that arranged marriages rock too !
That in short is my tribute to Divya on her first birthday after marriage.
I wish her all the very best for her life and for her career too. Hope she achieves "one to all" in life !
!! Congratulations once again my lady love !!
Amit
Wishing you a very happy birthday and a great year(s) ahead.
This is a very special birthday for her since not only is this the first birthday after marriage, she also completed 25. This is a very special birthday for me too, for obvious reasons.
Let me go back a bit in time to set this up nicely. I met Divya about 8 or 8.5 months back. In my search for my better half, i had met few girls, but somehow things never clicked (and now i know why). When mamma/baba told me about her, I was a bit indifferent to the whole thing to them(which was very typical of me then), but someohow felt, she might be the one. I went to Indore and she came with her parents and Chetan (her brother). After exchanging quick pleasentries, we decided to go out and chat a bit freely. So there we were, in the car going for a long ride.
In my typical fashion, I started talking about Indore and its weather to begin with(I always think, thats smart of me to strike a conversation :-)). And I could suddenly sense that she too had a passion for Indore. The conversation went on, and spanned across many topics like her office, my office, likes, dislikes, her idea about life, sports, hobbies, movies, music, dance(she was the one talking on dance and not me), relationships, friendship, family, values etc. And as we both were talking, our mind was analysing each others thoughts and mannerisms.
My first impression about her was she was a very down to earth person and got along very well with others. She did not seem to have any ego or air about her being.
My mind was reaching a conclusion slowly. We met once omre the next day and said YES. All the wait seemed to be paying rich dividends for me. Divya came into my life and we had a "Chat pat Byah". Everything happened very quickly. Within a month we were married on 11th of July 2007(A Monsoon Wedding as I like to call it). Miracles do happen and dreams do come true.
Everyone including me (more importantly!!) was very happy. As per my resolution, I was able to move on and start a new life with Divya. It was and is great to have her together. We gell with each other very well and are very happy (touch wood) ! Although, it has been just 7 months, it seems we know each other for a long time. i would give that entire credit to Divya since she gets along so very well with everyone in family and is such a fun person to be with. She is down to earth, friendly, humorous, lively, enthusiastic and most importantly knows how to take everyone together. These were precisely the things which I wanted in my life partner.
As time has gone by in last 7 months or so, my impression about her has not changed since the first impression I formed about her. She is great at socializing with people. The vibes that you get out of her are friendly and have a very soothing effect on your psyche. No wonder, she has a huge friends list. i have realised in last 7 months, how much her friends mean to her. As I have realised, her friends also value her immensly. Besides other things, she is a great singer and an even better dancer. She makes some amazing food (her cooking has improved tremendously since she came to US).
Well, to cut the long story short, it has been an immense pleasure to be with her. I am happy with life again and am looking forward to life ahead. I was very doubtful about arranged marriage and how it will turn out to be for me. I can say with full confidence that arranged marriages rock too !
That in short is my tribute to Divya on her first birthday after marriage.
I wish her all the very best for her life and for her career too. Hope she achieves "one to all" in life !
!! Congratulations once again my lady love !!
Amit
Monday, December 31, 2007
The year that was ... 2007
Ok. Its that time of the year when you look back at the past year and look ahead at the new year as well. Time to reflect upon the happenings of the year going by and time to make resolutions for the new year (that in a separate blog tommorow).
To summarise last year, it was an awsome year, a year with lots of memories to cherish and lot of new experiences which have enriched my life tremendously. To begin with, I was in USA for first couple of months till mid feb. I have to say my US trip last year was an amazing experience. It gave me lot of time to introspect, look deep down within and make attempts to solve some long standing issues in life. More than anything, it gave me opportunity to have fresh perspectives and a chance to be more open to experiments and finally make some concrete decisions to change things. And I was able to do that and took some steps which would lead me into some decision !!
The biggest decision was to choose a life partner. I started my search with a lot of preconcieved notions. But as time went by I learnt to throw away those preconcieved notions and get real.
In July I finally found my life partner. All the wait seemed to be paying rich dividends for me. Divya came into my life and we had a "Chat pat Byah". Everything happened very quickly. Within a month we were married on 11th of July 2007. Miracles do happen and dreams do come true.
Everyone including me (more importantly!!) was very happy. As per my resolution, I was able to move on and start a new life with Divya. It was and is great to have her together. We gell with each other very well and are very happy (touch wood) ! Although, it has been just 5 months, it seems we know each other for a long time. i would give that entire credit to Divya since she gets along so very well with everyone in family and is such a fun person to be with. She is down to earth, friendly, humorous, lively, enthusiastic and most importantly knows how to take everyone together. These were precisely the things which I wanted in my life partner Though these are still early days(honeymoon period as the cynics call it), we both are sure that we will do well in difficult times too as "anti incumbancy" sets in.
I also got promoted this year at work and so the "feel good factor" continued in work as well. I am thankful to so many people in my team who helped me in getting the promotion.
More importantly, I felt good from within after a long long time and there is no better feeling than this. I learnt lessons from my past (there were plenty!) and I felt confident as I moved ahead in life.
I started blogging at the end of year 2006. As I moved into 2007, I wanted to write more and for that I needed to read more. And read I did ! I read an outstanding book called "Mrityunjay" by authot Shivaji Samant. This has to be the best book I have ever read in my life till now. And I already know the only book better than this would be "Yugandhar" by the same authot. I intend to read it in 2008. I read many other books like Call of honor, Everything happens for a reason, Inspite of Gods, and couple of other fiction novels.
Divya and I also attended two fantastic music concerts. We attended one in Pune by
sudesh Bhosale. The other one was in Dec 2007 in Chicago. We have followed Sa Re Ga Ma Pa show on Zee TV and it was an awsome experience to attend this show. We both loved it like nothing !
We are now in USA and trying to adjust in the windy city of Chicago. I am back to this place as I was here last winter as well.
All in all, this year has been great and it made me love and live life once again. 2007, the year that was will always remain in my memory for a long long time.
Wish you all a great 2008. Wish the best for everyone and hope all you want comes true !!
To summarise last year, it was an awsome year, a year with lots of memories to cherish and lot of new experiences which have enriched my life tremendously. To begin with, I was in USA for first couple of months till mid feb. I have to say my US trip last year was an amazing experience. It gave me lot of time to introspect, look deep down within and make attempts to solve some long standing issues in life. More than anything, it gave me opportunity to have fresh perspectives and a chance to be more open to experiments and finally make some concrete decisions to change things. And I was able to do that and took some steps which would lead me into some decision !!
The biggest decision was to choose a life partner. I started my search with a lot of preconcieved notions. But as time went by I learnt to throw away those preconcieved notions and get real.
In July I finally found my life partner. All the wait seemed to be paying rich dividends for me. Divya came into my life and we had a "Chat pat Byah". Everything happened very quickly. Within a month we were married on 11th of July 2007. Miracles do happen and dreams do come true.
Everyone including me (more importantly!!) was very happy. As per my resolution, I was able to move on and start a new life with Divya. It was and is great to have her together. We gell with each other very well and are very happy (touch wood) ! Although, it has been just 5 months, it seems we know each other for a long time. i would give that entire credit to Divya since she gets along so very well with everyone in family and is such a fun person to be with. She is down to earth, friendly, humorous, lively, enthusiastic and most importantly knows how to take everyone together. These were precisely the things which I wanted in my life partner Though these are still early days(honeymoon period as the cynics call it), we both are sure that we will do well in difficult times too as "anti incumbancy" sets in.
I also got promoted this year at work and so the "feel good factor" continued in work as well. I am thankful to so many people in my team who helped me in getting the promotion.
More importantly, I felt good from within after a long long time and there is no better feeling than this. I learnt lessons from my past (there were plenty!) and I felt confident as I moved ahead in life.
I started blogging at the end of year 2006. As I moved into 2007, I wanted to write more and for that I needed to read more. And read I did ! I read an outstanding book called "Mrityunjay" by authot Shivaji Samant. This has to be the best book I have ever read in my life till now. And I already know the only book better than this would be "Yugandhar" by the same authot. I intend to read it in 2008. I read many other books like Call of honor, Everything happens for a reason, Inspite of Gods, and couple of other fiction novels.
Divya and I also attended two fantastic music concerts. We attended one in Pune by
sudesh Bhosale. The other one was in Dec 2007 in Chicago. We have followed Sa Re Ga Ma Pa show on Zee TV and it was an awsome experience to attend this show. We both loved it like nothing !
We are now in USA and trying to adjust in the windy city of Chicago. I am back to this place as I was here last winter as well.
All in all, this year has been great and it made me love and live life once again. 2007, the year that was will always remain in my memory for a long long time.
Wish you all a great 2008. Wish the best for everyone and hope all you want comes true !!
Saturday, May 5, 2007
A-Z of Indianness (C,D this week)
Shashi Tharur is writing a column in TOI every sunday, where he describes Indianness. And as you would expect with India, Indianness has many contours and expressions which can be described on each alphabet.
I would try here to create my own list of Indianness. Shashi Tharur has reached B, so I am starting my series with C and D, so I am not copying what Mr Tharur has to say.
Here is what I think, describes India on C and D
1. Cricket : If there is one religion that binds India cutting across caste, creed, sex it has to be cricket. Almost entire India shares this passion of a game which is more of a British Legacy. India today is a powerhouse in terms of financing the game, and we as Indians, who are eternal optimists. Even after the recent debacle, entire nation is closely hoping for a miracle in Bangladesh
2. Computer : India has missed a lot of growth opportunities in the past. We missed the industrial revolution and hence lost a chance to be at par with its western world. But IT is one area, where we have not missed any opportunity and have taken it with both hands. Computer today has empowered common Indians and made them conquer the global IT industry.
3. Cell Phone : Post liberalization, if computer was one strong success factor for we the Indians, cell phone revolution was another feather in our cap. Today even a road side vendor, sabjee wala, doodh wala etc all own a mobile phone and are in touch with their loved ones. Cell phone today is also a very cheap way to do business and innovate. No wonder in the entire world, we have the cheapest service.
4. Caste : India as a society has always been caste ridden. This is not a recent phenomenon. Right from our vedas and upnishads, all talk about a highly castiest society and this has always led to a lot of conflicts. A state like UP, where caste is the only factor that works in elections. I wish, as we grow and evolve as a country, the effect of caste is reduced, and the polity of the country becomes more issue based, rather than based on "Mandal and Kamandal".
5. Congress : Congress is the oldest political party in India. During our independance, it became synonymous to the entire nation and its will to be free and attain "Swarajya". Its leaders came from all spheres of life and went on to dominate the entire freedom struggle and also ruled the post independance India. Though, there were a lot of other entities and leaders (non congress) who did so much for the country and its independance, one can never undermine the role of Congress in defining the nation as it is today. Obviously, the congress is also responsible for all the lacunas that we see in our polity and society.
6. Charkha : Charkha was that ultimate symbol of "Aam Aadmi" and his will to be self independant and free during our freedom struggle. Modern India might not still be using Charkha, but the whole ideology behind the "Charkha" is still very modern and contemporary in today's globalised world.
7. Cow : Cow has always been treated in India as a mother figure. It has always been reverred by the majority hindus. "Gaay" as a symbol has also been misused by some political parties to their own interests. Nonetheless, there are countless ocasions, where the cow is treated as very sacred and hence portrays a strong symbol of Indianness.
8. Democracy : Democracy is the ultimate success of modern and independant India. If there is one achievement for modern India that has unparallel instance in the entire world, it has to be the way in which India and Indians have chosen to be truly democratic. As the "Time" magzine pointed out this week, it is only in India where you can have a "Catholic Italian" woman be the lady in command of a country which has a "minority sikh" PM and a "Minority Muslim" President ruling the majority Hindu population without even an iota of trouble. Hats of to that ultimate symbol od modern India, Democracy !!
9. Diversity : India in its modern awtar and in its age old awtar of "Hindusthan" has been a land of diversity. The "Sanatan Hindu" dharma is the ultimate symbol of how it has literally amalgamated so many faiths. India as a country has always been plundered and invaded time and again by Turks, Mughals, Brits, Portugese etc. There have been offshoots of Hindu dharama like Sikhism, Jainism, Buddhism, but ultimately the Sanatan Hindu dharma has always accepted diversity and ultimately has been flexible enough to amalgamate all these religions in its own ideology. Thats our secret of diversity.
10. Doordarshan : DD as a medium has seen this country evolve and grow. Pre liberalization, it was the only source of entertainment for Indians. Havent we all liked the "chitrahaar" and the sunday evening movie for years, before we had the Zees and Sony's literally eating up DD? Who can forget serials like "Buniyaad", "Hum Log", "Yeh jo hai Zindagi" and the much hated "Krishi Darshan". All of that represented India and our Indianness !!
LAst but not the least, the festivals like Diwali bring all Indians joy and happiness. Another "D" that comes to mind is the famous "Dandi march" which Gandhiji undertook as the ultimate symbol of opposing the british hegemony and imperialism.
Lookout for the e's and f's in coming week.
I would try here to create my own list of Indianness. Shashi Tharur has reached B, so I am starting my series with C and D, so I am not copying what Mr Tharur has to say.
Here is what I think, describes India on C and D
1. Cricket : If there is one religion that binds India cutting across caste, creed, sex it has to be cricket. Almost entire India shares this passion of a game which is more of a British Legacy. India today is a powerhouse in terms of financing the game, and we as Indians, who are eternal optimists. Even after the recent debacle, entire nation is closely hoping for a miracle in Bangladesh
2. Computer : India has missed a lot of growth opportunities in the past. We missed the industrial revolution and hence lost a chance to be at par with its western world. But IT is one area, where we have not missed any opportunity and have taken it with both hands. Computer today has empowered common Indians and made them conquer the global IT industry.
3. Cell Phone : Post liberalization, if computer was one strong success factor for we the Indians, cell phone revolution was another feather in our cap. Today even a road side vendor, sabjee wala, doodh wala etc all own a mobile phone and are in touch with their loved ones. Cell phone today is also a very cheap way to do business and innovate. No wonder in the entire world, we have the cheapest service.
4. Caste : India as a society has always been caste ridden. This is not a recent phenomenon. Right from our vedas and upnishads, all talk about a highly castiest society and this has always led to a lot of conflicts. A state like UP, where caste is the only factor that works in elections. I wish, as we grow and evolve as a country, the effect of caste is reduced, and the polity of the country becomes more issue based, rather than based on "Mandal and Kamandal".
5. Congress : Congress is the oldest political party in India. During our independance, it became synonymous to the entire nation and its will to be free and attain "Swarajya". Its leaders came from all spheres of life and went on to dominate the entire freedom struggle and also ruled the post independance India. Though, there were a lot of other entities and leaders (non congress) who did so much for the country and its independance, one can never undermine the role of Congress in defining the nation as it is today. Obviously, the congress is also responsible for all the lacunas that we see in our polity and society.
6. Charkha : Charkha was that ultimate symbol of "Aam Aadmi" and his will to be self independant and free during our freedom struggle. Modern India might not still be using Charkha, but the whole ideology behind the "Charkha" is still very modern and contemporary in today's globalised world.
7. Cow : Cow has always been treated in India as a mother figure. It has always been reverred by the majority hindus. "Gaay" as a symbol has also been misused by some political parties to their own interests. Nonetheless, there are countless ocasions, where the cow is treated as very sacred and hence portrays a strong symbol of Indianness.
8. Democracy : Democracy is the ultimate success of modern and independant India. If there is one achievement for modern India that has unparallel instance in the entire world, it has to be the way in which India and Indians have chosen to be truly democratic. As the "Time" magzine pointed out this week, it is only in India where you can have a "Catholic Italian" woman be the lady in command of a country which has a "minority sikh" PM and a "Minority Muslim" President ruling the majority Hindu population without even an iota of trouble. Hats of to that ultimate symbol od modern India, Democracy !!
9. Diversity : India in its modern awtar and in its age old awtar of "Hindusthan" has been a land of diversity. The "Sanatan Hindu" dharma is the ultimate symbol of how it has literally amalgamated so many faiths. India as a country has always been plundered and invaded time and again by Turks, Mughals, Brits, Portugese etc. There have been offshoots of Hindu dharama like Sikhism, Jainism, Buddhism, but ultimately the Sanatan Hindu dharma has always accepted diversity and ultimately has been flexible enough to amalgamate all these religions in its own ideology. Thats our secret of diversity.
10. Doordarshan : DD as a medium has seen this country evolve and grow. Pre liberalization, it was the only source of entertainment for Indians. Havent we all liked the "chitrahaar" and the sunday evening movie for years, before we had the Zees and Sony's literally eating up DD? Who can forget serials like "Buniyaad", "Hum Log", "Yeh jo hai Zindagi" and the much hated "Krishi Darshan". All of that represented India and our Indianness !!
LAst but not the least, the festivals like Diwali bring all Indians joy and happiness. Another "D" that comes to mind is the famous "Dandi march" which Gandhiji undertook as the ultimate symbol of opposing the british hegemony and imperialism.
Lookout for the e's and f's in coming week.
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