“To me, there’s no difference between French and Bengali!’’ a 13-year-old Bengali girl uttered these words in a most stylish way! She took great pride in the fact that she can’t read or write her own mother tongue!
Bengalis otherwise branded as an ‘educated and intellectual class’ has these exclusive characteristics of taking pride in not knowing their own language. ‘Banglata na thik ashena (I don’t know Bengali properly) is the most common feature of the urban youth, who don’t even know their favourite English in its actual form! There’s no denying that knowing the correct English is too important for communication, career etc. as it is considered the connecting language for both India & abroad!
But the irony is, ‘International Mother Tongue Day’ is the outcome of ‘Bhasha Andolan’ (Bengali Language Movement) which was fought by the students of the Dhaka University in order to recognise Bangla as the official language of Bangladesh (the then East Pakistan) against West Pakistani government’s imposition of Urdu as the official language of East Pakistan! Today is the 61st year of ‘Bhasha Andolan’ and Bengali has become the most neglected language and an ‘embarrassment’ for a large number of people in Kolkata itself! I am excluding the Diaspora chapters for some other connotations.
India too has experienced its own sort of language movement. Potti Sriramumulu’s ‘fast-unto-death’ and consequently his death sparked off the major re-shaping of Indian state boundaries. Sriramumulu demanded Telugu-speaking-state. Through the act of Reorganisation of the states, 1956, the old states were dissolved & new states were created on the lines of shared linguistic and ethnic demographics. Thus, Telugu speaking Andhra Pradesh, Malayalam-speaking Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Marathi-speaking Maharashtra, Gujarat and Punjab were created. Bengal never has to fight for its language, it was automatic but it is the state which has least respect for its native language.
In almost all the Indian states, learning the state-language is mandatory. Be it Maharashtra or Gujarat, Kerala or Andhra, you have to have learn the language of the state you are residing in. The exception is west Bengal, where Bengali is not even compulsory as third language! So it’s of no surprise that Marathis or Gujaratis, Punjabis or Tamilians or Malayalis have great pride for knowing their language! Bengalis are probably the only tribe who prefers English over Bengali while communicating in a social gathering! Showing-off has become a normal practice for most of the Bengalis! Parents feel satisfied if their kids get less marks in Bengali or if the school doesn’t teach Bengali at all!! Kids can’t be blamed for disrespecting Bengali, because this is the culture their parents are implanting in them! They are simply following the ‘global practice!’
Rabindranath Tagore believed, English should be skillfully and thoroughly taught as a second language, the chief medium of instruction in schools (and even in colleges up to the stage of the university degree) should be the mother tongue. He has four reasons for this belief: first, because it is through his mother tongue that every man learns the deepest lessons of life: second, because some of those pupils who have a just claim to higher education cannot master the English language; third, because many of those who do acquire English fail to achieve true proficiency in it and yet, in the attempt to learn a language so difficult to a Bengali, spend too large a part of the energy which is indispensable to the growth of the power of independent thought and observation; and, fourth, because a training conducted chiefly through the mother tongue would lighten the load of education for girls, whose deeper culture is of high importance to India. He holds that the essential things in the culture of the West should be conveyed to the whole Bengali people by means of a widely diffused education, but that this can only be done through a wider use of the vernacular in schools.
One must not misunderstand me, I am not telling that in name of saving own ‘cultural distinctiveness’, everyone should follow Siva Sena’s path, forcefully imposing alien languages to others, abusing other language speaking people. My point is simple; one must have respect for his own language! Caution is especially for the self-forgotten Bengalis, because ‘’Everyone loses if one language is lost because then a nation and culture lose their memory, and so does the complex tapestry form which the world is woven and which makes the world an exciting place…”. Even Gandhiji firmly stated, “Any nation that cherishes its individuality must love its own language and feel proud of it. The learning of English must come second to learning one's mother tongue.”
I am proud to be a Bengali. I am proud that I can read, write and speak in Bengali. I never feel ashamed of that. Some of the best literary creations of the world is in Bengali, great movies were made in Bengali by eminent film makers like Satyajit Ray, Mrinal Sen, Ritwik Ghatak. Noble Prize, for the very first time came to India for a Bengali, Oscar too followed the same path! One Bengali had unfurled his jersey at the Lord’s Balcony, innumerable examples are there! Still, most Bengalis don’t know their mother tongue, they feel ashamed in speaking in Bengali.
It’s a question for them… very recently Bengali bashing has been a regular practice in most places of India. Don’t they think that actually their disrespect for their own language has actually widened the path for this insult? Have they ever thought that each Indian has to sing two Bengali songs, namely Jana Gana Mana’ and ‘Vande Mataram’ at least once in their life?
Now,take a look at our neighour. The Morning Star of the Language Movement, this year have chosen to 'celebrate' the occasion on a different note. In a close affinity with the Arab Spring, Shahbag Square is burning bright with the candles. The war-cry being 'hang the 1971 terrorists'.
'Amar Ekushe' (21st February forever)is the driving force of Bangladesh. They know, they fight for a cause, unlike India where one Nirbhaya Case shook the conscience of the nation and within weeks die down! Bangladesh knows how to ensure justice, we must take a cue from them! I am sure 90% of the people would give a blank look if you ask the significance of the date!
Wake up Bengalis… we must not forget our very own Bangla! After all, ‘amar bhaiyer rokte rangano ekushe February/ ami ki bhulite pari?’ (My brother has shed blood on 21st, how could I forget that?). Let’s think of those young, brave boys and then look at ourselves. I can assure, if we have emotions, we will feel pity and ashamed for ourselves only!
The 'sweetest tongue' is allover my body and soul...('Amar Bhitor o Bahire, Anatare, Anatre Achho tumi Hriday Jure' the immortal lines by Rudra Muhammad Shahidullah, penned during the Bhasha Andolan), so let's embrace it.
No shame in knowing your own language!
Monday, 21 February 2011
Monday, 14 February 2011
Saga of St. Valentine
It is so much true that ‘Gravitation is not responsible for people falling in love.’ So people fall in love and very often come out of it. Through the ages the single emotion called love has been the inspiration for poet’s creativity, painter’s canvassing, singlehood’s panacea and couple’s headache. There might be many other micro level feelings associated with that. But in last few years Love has become an ‘ocean of emotions entirely surrounded by expenses!’ Thanks to the Great Lover saint Valentine, suddenly his Love for a little girl (as the story tells) being celebrated all over the world.
The gentle feeling of Love has now become a commodity. It (Love) is wrapped in sweetness of chocolates, fragrance of flowers, sparkles of diamonds, tenderness of Giant teddy etc etc; Shops are giving huge discounts, message contests being organized, mobile service providers declared it as ‘Black out’ day for super profit- thus the ‘business of Love’ has become a multi-billion dollar market! Yes, Valentine’s Day is here again!! Markets at its best with lucrative offers for Love…
But the fact is, if you love someone from the bottom of your heart, if it is eternal, a-never-ending feeling of completeness, then it cannot be a commodity at the first place, can’t be a tool for consumerism! Have you ever thought, it’s a basic human emotion and it’s on sale!!
Personally, I never fall in Love per se. So to say, I don’t have any ‘Prince Charming’ in my life and I think I am blessed being single. Secret crush was (and is) definitely there, love for people is there. I feel for them, but for that I don’t need any special day to ‘celebrate’ my feelings for them. It comes naturally. All 365 days I have the same amount of love, concern, and care for them. I might be backward!! Actually I believe, if you love someone (not limited within man-woman relationship or bodily pleasure) you don’t need ‘luxurious celebration’ for that! It is often silent, unspoken and sometimes self explanatory.
Some feel love is all about getting physical. If you don’t touch each other (upto its sexual core) fulfilment cannot come. Sex, Lust is the gratification for love! Certain instincts might be essentiality for some individuals but Platonic Love is the purest form of love. Even without seeing each other you might have a deep feeling for a person. A silent look can speak volumes which thousand of kisses and passionate touch might not express. One of the positive aspects (or the only?) of Valentine’s Day is that it is encouraging Platonic Love too! The other form of love needs no encouragement, I guess!!
Give n’ take is the basis of Love nowadays!! ‘You are single, find your V-day partner’ too is in the offing!! Youths, especially those who are in ‘Love’ laments if they are unable to get an expensive gift for his/her partner. Great Show-(Off) business I must call!
If you have a very special place for somebody in your heart, do you really need a special day to express that? Market-statistics would say, definitely yes, but I know for sure, it’s not!! Love is eternal, tranquil. It knows no boundary. It has no limitations. Love, cannot be marketed, branded… As long as human heart bits, this very warm emotion will be there, even when there wouldn’t be ANY VALENTINE’S DAY!!
The gentle feeling of Love has now become a commodity. It (Love) is wrapped in sweetness of chocolates, fragrance of flowers, sparkles of diamonds, tenderness of Giant teddy etc etc; Shops are giving huge discounts, message contests being organized, mobile service providers declared it as ‘Black out’ day for super profit- thus the ‘business of Love’ has become a multi-billion dollar market! Yes, Valentine’s Day is here again!! Markets at its best with lucrative offers for Love…
But the fact is, if you love someone from the bottom of your heart, if it is eternal, a-never-ending feeling of completeness, then it cannot be a commodity at the first place, can’t be a tool for consumerism! Have you ever thought, it’s a basic human emotion and it’s on sale!!
Personally, I never fall in Love per se. So to say, I don’t have any ‘Prince Charming’ in my life and I think I am blessed being single. Secret crush was (and is) definitely there, love for people is there. I feel for them, but for that I don’t need any special day to ‘celebrate’ my feelings for them. It comes naturally. All 365 days I have the same amount of love, concern, and care for them. I might be backward!! Actually I believe, if you love someone (not limited within man-woman relationship or bodily pleasure) you don’t need ‘luxurious celebration’ for that! It is often silent, unspoken and sometimes self explanatory.
Some feel love is all about getting physical. If you don’t touch each other (upto its sexual core) fulfilment cannot come. Sex, Lust is the gratification for love! Certain instincts might be essentiality for some individuals but Platonic Love is the purest form of love. Even without seeing each other you might have a deep feeling for a person. A silent look can speak volumes which thousand of kisses and passionate touch might not express. One of the positive aspects (or the only?) of Valentine’s Day is that it is encouraging Platonic Love too! The other form of love needs no encouragement, I guess!!
Give n’ take is the basis of Love nowadays!! ‘You are single, find your V-day partner’ too is in the offing!! Youths, especially those who are in ‘Love’ laments if they are unable to get an expensive gift for his/her partner. Great Show-(Off) business I must call!
If you have a very special place for somebody in your heart, do you really need a special day to express that? Market-statistics would say, definitely yes, but I know for sure, it’s not!! Love is eternal, tranquil. It knows no boundary. It has no limitations. Love, cannot be marketed, branded… As long as human heart bits, this very warm emotion will be there, even when there wouldn’t be ANY VALENTINE’S DAY!!
Saturday, 29 January 2011
'Intellectual' War
Is it over and again Intellectual challenge in form of financial benefit?
This might not be very exaggeration if someone puts it like that!
It is well known (and also accepted) that Indians are more meritorious and intellectually ahead than the native Americans & Europeans. No, I am not commenting from any prejudice, but several surveys are there to present the stated fact.
But for past 15 years Developed nations (mostly USA and EU) have tried to throw challenges to India by owning patents on several products which is originally Indian and falls under ‘Traditional Knowledge!’
Intellectual Property Rights is an emerging aspect of international business. Management of IPRs has become one of the major attributes of M&A, Take Over or JVs! To protect the business interest of every nation, TRIPS (Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights) has come into force under WTO! Most of the nations are signatories of the same! Yet violation is taking place in every second day! Copyrights, Geographical Identification, Trademarks are not that badly hit as in the case of patents! And India is the worst hit!
So, what is a patent?
It is a product or process which includes innovative step, industrial application, novelty and which must not fall under the ambit of ‘prior use’. Patent is generally granted for 20 years and governed by Indian Patent Act, 1970, (Amended in 2002).
WIPO has defined patent as “an exclusive right granted for an invention, which is a product or a process that provides a new way of doing something, or offers a new technical solution to a problem.” [http://www.wipo.int/freepublications/en/patents/450/wipo_pub_l450pa.pdf]
But surprisingly enough, while granting patents, many a times ‘prior use’ and ‘novelty’ have been looked down upon! The little example of that Basmati, Neem, Haldi (Turmeric), fennel, coriander, cumin, sunflower, peanut, reri (castor) all have been patented by USA and EU companies!! (Though some of them revoked later).
Before going into past, first let see the most recent one!
Lal Dantmanjan (Red Herbal Gentifrice) has been patented by Colgate-Palmolive in USA! Yes, it is the same Dantmanjan which reminds millions of Indians about ‘Raju & Masterji’ TV Commercials by Dabur! And which categorically falls under the age-old practice of Indian Ayurveda, which means Lal Dantmanjan is a Traditional Knowledge and is in public use for decades.
Colgate-Palmolive got the patent this year in June in USA. The same company has filed for patent of this product in India too in 1995. But that is yet to be granted.
The Secretary of ‘The Association of Manufacturers of Ayurvedic Medicines’ (Amam) is of the opinion that India must apply for ‘post grant’ objection sighting the example of Traditional Knowledge. And India’s application must be cancelled on the ground of ‘traditional knowledge.’
But Traditional Knowledge of India has developed a peculiar ‘tradition’ of being patented outside the country!
It began all with Neem. In 1995 the patent was granted to WR Grace and US Department of Agriculture. After severe opposition from various Indian groups, it was cancelled in 2005 on the ground that the invention was not ‘novel’ and was in ‘public use’ in India.
Turmeric was next on the line. Two NRI associated with Mississippi Medical Centre, Jackson was awarded patent on Haldi by USPTO. For ages, this has been in use in India for curing various diseases. Vehement protests by India forced the patent office to‘re-examine’ and it found that it falls under ‘prior art’, thus, not patentable!
Wheat too was patented by Monsanto, European Patent Office (Munich Office) granted the patent in 2003. Later, with the help of PIL in the Supreme Court of India and Greenpeace Organisation, India was successful to get the patent cancelled.
The fragrance of Basmati is still a buzz word in the Patent circle. USA Co. Rice Tec was granted patent of Basmati under the brand name of ‘Texmati’ and ‘Kasmati.’ With much effort India was able to prove that Basmati was long-grain scented rice which has specific geographical origins in India. Both Texmati and Kasmati are none other than variants of Basmati: India has successfully proved that point in the ‘post grant opposition’ appeal. So after much debate and thorough re-examination Basmati patent was partially revoked (grain-specific claim of Rice Tec was struck down by the Patent office) and it was stated, “Rice Tec would not be able to block the country’s (India) Basmati Rice export to US; it could, however, produce ‘similar or superior grains’ outside India.”
Though India is yet to file cases against the patent of Isabgol: Psyllium Husk, Saunf: FENNEL, Dhania: CORIANDER, Jeera: CUMIN, Surajmukhi: SUNFLOWER, Moongphali: PEANUT, Arandi, Reri: CASTOR, Karela (Bitter gourd), Jamun and Brijnal, Jar Amla: Phyllanthus Niruri, various countries of Europe, Asia and USA have already patented these products and they are enjoying the huge economic benefit from these products. [courtesy: Allahabad High Court website]
To some critics, this is happening over and again because of the difference in the patent law of USA and India. According to law firm Sagar & Suri, “India first examines a patent application, then widely publishes it for third parties to challenge, and only then grants the patent. However, the US keeps the patent application a closely guarded secret and grants it without allowing other parties to challenge it. After the patent has been granted, third parties are then allowed to petition against the patent. This shortfall in the patent process in the US that ultimately needs to be revised to prevent future cases like this (Basmati) from occurring.”
In 1995, when ‘modified’ GATT was resurfaced in the form of WTO, various developing nations had shown their concern for their Business and Commerce prospect. Especially Third world countries faced the “intellectual challenge’ from the developed nations. As IPRs are ‘golden hen’ in the business circuit, countries like USA, EU have used their clout and patented various products/processes which in actuality have separate origins. Left wing parties raised these issues of ‘Economic abuse’ when India became member of WTO!
TRIPS agreement is not enough successful in protecting the IPRs of the developing and under-developed nations. Much stricter regulations need to be imposed to prevent the abuse of IPRs.
Experts believe, disclosure of the source and country of origin, evidence of prior informed consent by concerned national authority and fair sharing of benefit must be incorporated in the patent application form itself.
And where India stands today?
In the second amendment of Patent Law of India in 2002, disclosure of source and GI was made mandatory for applying patent within the country. Revocation of patent is incorporated if disclosure is not done or given inaccurately. Further to prevent patents based on TK, which is not always in written form, provisions have been made to include anticipation of invention by available local knowledge, including oral knowledge, as one of the grounds for opposition and for revocation of patent.
For protection of traditional knowledge Biodiversity Act of 1999 has been enacted. Sui Generis System, electronic database of TK (mostly of medicinal plants) i.e. Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL), power to oppose and give prior approval for patenting by NBA have become operational under this law.
Still, the numero uno ‘Emerging Economy of the world’ is yet to achieve the desired success rate in the protection of IPRs. Indian IPR laws should be more stringent not only in paper, but also in practice!
India has proved its genius and intellectual capital to the western world in various manners. In this new kind of ‘Intellectual War’, the hope is that India will emerge as a Champion yet again!!
This might not be very exaggeration if someone puts it like that!
It is well known (and also accepted) that Indians are more meritorious and intellectually ahead than the native Americans & Europeans. No, I am not commenting from any prejudice, but several surveys are there to present the stated fact.
But for past 15 years Developed nations (mostly USA and EU) have tried to throw challenges to India by owning patents on several products which is originally Indian and falls under ‘Traditional Knowledge!’
Intellectual Property Rights is an emerging aspect of international business. Management of IPRs has become one of the major attributes of M&A, Take Over or JVs! To protect the business interest of every nation, TRIPS (Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights) has come into force under WTO! Most of the nations are signatories of the same! Yet violation is taking place in every second day! Copyrights, Geographical Identification, Trademarks are not that badly hit as in the case of patents! And India is the worst hit!
So, what is a patent?
It is a product or process which includes innovative step, industrial application, novelty and which must not fall under the ambit of ‘prior use’. Patent is generally granted for 20 years and governed by Indian Patent Act, 1970, (Amended in 2002).
WIPO has defined patent as “an exclusive right granted for an invention, which is a product or a process that provides a new way of doing something, or offers a new technical solution to a problem.” [http://www.wipo.int/freepublications/en/patents/450/wipo_pub_l450pa.pdf]
But surprisingly enough, while granting patents, many a times ‘prior use’ and ‘novelty’ have been looked down upon! The little example of that Basmati, Neem, Haldi (Turmeric), fennel, coriander, cumin, sunflower, peanut, reri (castor) all have been patented by USA and EU companies!! (Though some of them revoked later).
Before going into past, first let see the most recent one!
Lal Dantmanjan (Red Herbal Gentifrice) has been patented by Colgate-Palmolive in USA! Yes, it is the same Dantmanjan which reminds millions of Indians about ‘Raju & Masterji’ TV Commercials by Dabur! And which categorically falls under the age-old practice of Indian Ayurveda, which means Lal Dantmanjan is a Traditional Knowledge and is in public use for decades.
Colgate-Palmolive got the patent this year in June in USA. The same company has filed for patent of this product in India too in 1995. But that is yet to be granted.
The Secretary of ‘The Association of Manufacturers of Ayurvedic Medicines’ (Amam) is of the opinion that India must apply for ‘post grant’ objection sighting the example of Traditional Knowledge. And India’s application must be cancelled on the ground of ‘traditional knowledge.’
But Traditional Knowledge of India has developed a peculiar ‘tradition’ of being patented outside the country!
It began all with Neem. In 1995 the patent was granted to WR Grace and US Department of Agriculture. After severe opposition from various Indian groups, it was cancelled in 2005 on the ground that the invention was not ‘novel’ and was in ‘public use’ in India.
Turmeric was next on the line. Two NRI associated with Mississippi Medical Centre, Jackson was awarded patent on Haldi by USPTO. For ages, this has been in use in India for curing various diseases. Vehement protests by India forced the patent office to‘re-examine’ and it found that it falls under ‘prior art’, thus, not patentable!
Wheat too was patented by Monsanto, European Patent Office (Munich Office) granted the patent in 2003. Later, with the help of PIL in the Supreme Court of India and Greenpeace Organisation, India was successful to get the patent cancelled.
The fragrance of Basmati is still a buzz word in the Patent circle. USA Co. Rice Tec was granted patent of Basmati under the brand name of ‘Texmati’ and ‘Kasmati.’ With much effort India was able to prove that Basmati was long-grain scented rice which has specific geographical origins in India. Both Texmati and Kasmati are none other than variants of Basmati: India has successfully proved that point in the ‘post grant opposition’ appeal. So after much debate and thorough re-examination Basmati patent was partially revoked (grain-specific claim of Rice Tec was struck down by the Patent office) and it was stated, “Rice Tec would not be able to block the country’s (India) Basmati Rice export to US; it could, however, produce ‘similar or superior grains’ outside India.”
Though India is yet to file cases against the patent of Isabgol: Psyllium Husk, Saunf: FENNEL, Dhania: CORIANDER, Jeera: CUMIN, Surajmukhi: SUNFLOWER, Moongphali: PEANUT, Arandi, Reri: CASTOR, Karela (Bitter gourd), Jamun and Brijnal, Jar Amla: Phyllanthus Niruri, various countries of Europe, Asia and USA have already patented these products and they are enjoying the huge economic benefit from these products. [courtesy: Allahabad High Court website]
To some critics, this is happening over and again because of the difference in the patent law of USA and India. According to law firm Sagar & Suri, “India first examines a patent application, then widely publishes it for third parties to challenge, and only then grants the patent. However, the US keeps the patent application a closely guarded secret and grants it without allowing other parties to challenge it. After the patent has been granted, third parties are then allowed to petition against the patent. This shortfall in the patent process in the US that ultimately needs to be revised to prevent future cases like this (Basmati) from occurring.”
In 1995, when ‘modified’ GATT was resurfaced in the form of WTO, various developing nations had shown their concern for their Business and Commerce prospect. Especially Third world countries faced the “intellectual challenge’ from the developed nations. As IPRs are ‘golden hen’ in the business circuit, countries like USA, EU have used their clout and patented various products/processes which in actuality have separate origins. Left wing parties raised these issues of ‘Economic abuse’ when India became member of WTO!
TRIPS agreement is not enough successful in protecting the IPRs of the developing and under-developed nations. Much stricter regulations need to be imposed to prevent the abuse of IPRs.
Experts believe, disclosure of the source and country of origin, evidence of prior informed consent by concerned national authority and fair sharing of benefit must be incorporated in the patent application form itself.
And where India stands today?
In the second amendment of Patent Law of India in 2002, disclosure of source and GI was made mandatory for applying patent within the country. Revocation of patent is incorporated if disclosure is not done or given inaccurately. Further to prevent patents based on TK, which is not always in written form, provisions have been made to include anticipation of invention by available local knowledge, including oral knowledge, as one of the grounds for opposition and for revocation of patent.
For protection of traditional knowledge Biodiversity Act of 1999 has been enacted. Sui Generis System, electronic database of TK (mostly of medicinal plants) i.e. Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL), power to oppose and give prior approval for patenting by NBA have become operational under this law.
Still, the numero uno ‘Emerging Economy of the world’ is yet to achieve the desired success rate in the protection of IPRs. Indian IPR laws should be more stringent not only in paper, but also in practice!
India has proved its genius and intellectual capital to the western world in various manners. In this new kind of ‘Intellectual War’, the hope is that India will emerge as a Champion yet again!!
Friday, 7 January 2011
To Sir...
Yesterday I found a chocolate-wrapper. For last 11 years it is with me. After reading these two lines, eyebrows must not be in their usual places. But I have kept it as a blessing.
It was our final day of standard 10.The feeling was naturally very bad. It was an ‘end’ of a long warm association. Teachers, friends and all other in the school were very nostalgic. I too was on the same league. Though some of my friends were crying, I cannot cry that easily (even if my voice choked).
This is a peculiar thing that I was more close to my teachers than even my parents. They have always given me encouragement, unconditional support, valuable advises to go ahead in life. One of them was Dipankarda. Our Maths teacher from class 8! Though I was very poor in the subject, still he had always stood by me. When I was in a very bad state of mind and even thought of end my life, Sir was the person who had lent the helping hand. Just like a father, he scolded me. Loved me. Instilled confidence in me. Whatever little I have done, I owe much of them to him only. He was (and is) a person of integrity. He never showed any bias against any student.
Dipankarda knows me inside-out! So he understood that I won’t cry. He was looking at me. ( I deliberately didn’t meet him as saying good bye to him was not possible for me). As for the final time, I was about to leave the campus, he called me. I stopped. He gave me a 5-Star! (The only chocolate I love to get and he knew it so well). I couldn’t control my tears. I started crying. I never thought that Sir would give me on that day!
Just now I told that I was never good at maths and science. We had a strange debate. Just before my class 10 Board examination, he called me up and said ‘I think you are going to get Letter (above 80%) in the Maths!’ I was so ‘shocked’ to hear this from sir, such a cruel joke that too with me. (I was not sure to score even 50%). I was so angry and hurt that I started crying and told that why was he making me feel of my incompetency. He calmly told, ‘if I win you will get a 5-star!! And if I lose, I will give you chocolates of my choice!!’ Just imagine, it was a win-win situation for me! Sir told after giving me the 5-star, ‘’daughters get married off, it’s like that Anwesha. You were, you are and you will be my daughter even if you are a passed out now!’ I looked at him, not sure what to tell.
I didn’t say ‘Thank You!’ I know it would be an insult to him. I said Sorry for doubting his predictions, my ability and hurting him. When I was busy telling this, Sir whispered two words ‘Trust Yourself!’ For last 15 years it has been mantra for me.
I am blessed that wherever I went thereafter be it university and workplace I always have got the best of bests as my teachers and bosses, but never found a friend-philosopher and guide like Dipankarda! Some of them definitely were good and almost like my mentors, but I still miss the warmth of that teacher-student relation! Though I am in an academic institute, I never get to see such a love between a faculty and a student!
I must confess, my confidence is running in minus nowadays. I am questioning my ability every single day.
I don’t know whether the wrapper would show any light know.
That wrapper was that 5-star wrapper!
It was our final day of standard 10.The feeling was naturally very bad. It was an ‘end’ of a long warm association. Teachers, friends and all other in the school were very nostalgic. I too was on the same league. Though some of my friends were crying, I cannot cry that easily (even if my voice choked).
This is a peculiar thing that I was more close to my teachers than even my parents. They have always given me encouragement, unconditional support, valuable advises to go ahead in life. One of them was Dipankarda. Our Maths teacher from class 8! Though I was very poor in the subject, still he had always stood by me. When I was in a very bad state of mind and even thought of end my life, Sir was the person who had lent the helping hand. Just like a father, he scolded me. Loved me. Instilled confidence in me. Whatever little I have done, I owe much of them to him only. He was (and is) a person of integrity. He never showed any bias against any student.
Dipankarda knows me inside-out! So he understood that I won’t cry. He was looking at me. ( I deliberately didn’t meet him as saying good bye to him was not possible for me). As for the final time, I was about to leave the campus, he called me. I stopped. He gave me a 5-Star! (The only chocolate I love to get and he knew it so well). I couldn’t control my tears. I started crying. I never thought that Sir would give me on that day!
Just now I told that I was never good at maths and science. We had a strange debate. Just before my class 10 Board examination, he called me up and said ‘I think you are going to get Letter (above 80%) in the Maths!’ I was so ‘shocked’ to hear this from sir, such a cruel joke that too with me. (I was not sure to score even 50%). I was so angry and hurt that I started crying and told that why was he making me feel of my incompetency. He calmly told, ‘if I win you will get a 5-star!! And if I lose, I will give you chocolates of my choice!!’ Just imagine, it was a win-win situation for me! Sir told after giving me the 5-star, ‘’daughters get married off, it’s like that Anwesha. You were, you are and you will be my daughter even if you are a passed out now!’ I looked at him, not sure what to tell.
I didn’t say ‘Thank You!’ I know it would be an insult to him. I said Sorry for doubting his predictions, my ability and hurting him. When I was busy telling this, Sir whispered two words ‘Trust Yourself!’ For last 15 years it has been mantra for me.
I am blessed that wherever I went thereafter be it university and workplace I always have got the best of bests as my teachers and bosses, but never found a friend-philosopher and guide like Dipankarda! Some of them definitely were good and almost like my mentors, but I still miss the warmth of that teacher-student relation! Though I am in an academic institute, I never get to see such a love between a faculty and a student!
I must confess, my confidence is running in minus nowadays. I am questioning my ability every single day.
I don’t know whether the wrapper would show any light know.
That wrapper was that 5-star wrapper!
Friday, 31 December 2010
Decoding the Decade
All the Celebrations are on… people are having a gala time to welcome not only the New Year but a new decade !!
Before starting codifying 2011, let see the ‘Good, Bad and the Ugly’ of the era!
Some factors are constant in this ever-changing world. Though the Constants too fall under the various categories of ‘Good, Bad and the Ugly!’
With Consistent performance within the 22-yard, the tallest man in the world cricket is 5’ something!! The milestones he has achieved and the way this 37-year-old is going, it reminds me the most celebrated tagline of Adidas, ‘impossible is nothing!’ Man o’ man, you are the most constant across discipline: Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar!
It seems ‘small is beautiful’ gels well with Indian context. Aamir Khan can easily be tagged as Mr. Steady. With his conviction and perfection he has delivered one after another smashing hits be it a potboiler like Ghajini or a thoughtful Taare Zameen Par or Black Comedy Peepli Live (producer only). ‘Lagaan’ the movie which I have seen at least 22 times made India proud at the Oscars! It can be told, many more to come…!
Caste politics and horse trading is another constant for Indian democracy. Badly enough, we cannot shed it off as no political party is willing to bring this to an end.
Jammu & Kashmir is another factor which is ruling the roots of India-Pakistan relationship. Every time a confidence building measures take place, the very next time terror attack take place! Yes, terror attacks across the world unfortunately an ugly continuity!
And the ugly one? Without any doubt American dominance! To rebuild their dwindling economic condition, America has started witch hunt in the name of terror-free world!
These are few aspects which will be alive atleast for another half a century. But what were the events that were momentous but memorable.
Let look at the West first. All were historic on its own terms.
9/11 and ‘Black Man in the White House.’ Osama Bin Laden,’ the Frankenstein’ had allegedly destructed the pillars of American Economic dominance: Twin Towers on 11th September, 2001. The irony is that, 911 is the emergency number of USA! Since then, the definition of terror has changed and American Imperialism has redesigned itself and Laden became the mystery!
Barack Hussain Obama ha s re-written the history of USA by stepped into the White House. The ardent follower of Martin Luther King, Mahatma Gandhi and Abraham Lincoln, this man has promised a ‘Change we believe in- yes, we can’. This presidential campaign slogan has actually become most quoted sentence! Though, world is yet to see ‘Change’ in the literal sense.
Everything seemed perfect until September, 2008. The Eclipse sets in…Either it was Total or Partial. But it could be seen from all over the world- the Economic Meltdown! It spread thick n’ fast. From USA to Europe to Asia to Africa... the effect was so far reaching that overnight some called it a ‘New World Order’. Though Indian Economy was stirred but not shaken during the period due to its own policy!
Execution of Saddam Hussain by Bush Administration was another heart-wrenching event world had witnessed. Erstwhile American president George W Bush had punished him for ‘crime against humanity!’ Just think!!
Some natural tragedies had united the world. Lakhs of people from several countries had lost their lives in Tsunami in 2004. Earthquakes in Bhuj, Kashmir and Haiti had proved how vulnerable humans are in front of natural fury. Floods in Pakistan and India too have proved the helplessness of individuals. Helps poured in from all parts of the world for the survivors!
Man made catastrophes too were there: the most ghastly one was Gujarat Genocide of 2002. The perpetrator of the crime is still ruling the state. Series of terror attacks (mostly in religious places) in India have tried to shake the secular base of India, though we are successful enough to prove our resilient. Rise of the Maoists due to lack of development and economic backwardness.
We have lost leaders like Jyoti Basu, a magic called Michael Jackson.
No, everything is not shrouded in pessimism. ‘If you look for the stars, you will land on the moon’ India has indeed proved this under the captainship of R Madhavan Nair. Team Chandrayaan was a super success story for us. In the world of sports, Saina Nehwal, Abhinav Bindra, Sushil Kumar, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Lakshman (for crushing mighty Aussies in 2001 and SA in 2010) made us proud. By winning Oscars A R Rahman and Gulzar simply made us ecstatic. India for the first time ever got Madam President, which is indeed very significant from Indian sociological point of view. Sunita Williams, Kalpana Chawla, Amitav Ghosh, Kiran Desai and others had made an Indian Summer.
Here in India, Right to Information Act, 2005 has become a reality. Right to Education has become a fundamental right. Environment awareness now is at its best.
If we name this decade as the decade of Information Revolution, that won’t be an exaggeration. Advent of dozens of news channels in India and few thousand papers are giving each other a healthy competition. New Media, internet, social networking, and micro blogging are the latest trends which have empowered the general mass.
Now, a little personal anecdote. How was the decade for me? I have finished my schooling, universities with a good percentage and topper awards. Joined my dream job and left it. Presently serving an institute which I never thought that I could land there…
May be New Decade will see many such impossible! The beginning is indeed unique…
1.1.11!!
*(Probably I have forgotten many things, these are from my memory only!! So pardon me…)
Before starting codifying 2011, let see the ‘Good, Bad and the Ugly’ of the era!
Some factors are constant in this ever-changing world. Though the Constants too fall under the various categories of ‘Good, Bad and the Ugly!’
With Consistent performance within the 22-yard, the tallest man in the world cricket is 5’ something!! The milestones he has achieved and the way this 37-year-old is going, it reminds me the most celebrated tagline of Adidas, ‘impossible is nothing!’ Man o’ man, you are the most constant across discipline: Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar!
It seems ‘small is beautiful’ gels well with Indian context. Aamir Khan can easily be tagged as Mr. Steady. With his conviction and perfection he has delivered one after another smashing hits be it a potboiler like Ghajini or a thoughtful Taare Zameen Par or Black Comedy Peepli Live (producer only). ‘Lagaan’ the movie which I have seen at least 22 times made India proud at the Oscars! It can be told, many more to come…!
Caste politics and horse trading is another constant for Indian democracy. Badly enough, we cannot shed it off as no political party is willing to bring this to an end.
Jammu & Kashmir is another factor which is ruling the roots of India-Pakistan relationship. Every time a confidence building measures take place, the very next time terror attack take place! Yes, terror attacks across the world unfortunately an ugly continuity!
And the ugly one? Without any doubt American dominance! To rebuild their dwindling economic condition, America has started witch hunt in the name of terror-free world!
These are few aspects which will be alive atleast for another half a century. But what were the events that were momentous but memorable.
Let look at the West first. All were historic on its own terms.
9/11 and ‘Black Man in the White House.’ Osama Bin Laden,’ the Frankenstein’ had allegedly destructed the pillars of American Economic dominance: Twin Towers on 11th September, 2001. The irony is that, 911 is the emergency number of USA! Since then, the definition of terror has changed and American Imperialism has redesigned itself and Laden became the mystery!
Barack Hussain Obama ha s re-written the history of USA by stepped into the White House. The ardent follower of Martin Luther King, Mahatma Gandhi and Abraham Lincoln, this man has promised a ‘Change we believe in- yes, we can’. This presidential campaign slogan has actually become most quoted sentence! Though, world is yet to see ‘Change’ in the literal sense.
Everything seemed perfect until September, 2008. The Eclipse sets in…Either it was Total or Partial. But it could be seen from all over the world- the Economic Meltdown! It spread thick n’ fast. From USA to Europe to Asia to Africa... the effect was so far reaching that overnight some called it a ‘New World Order’. Though Indian Economy was stirred but not shaken during the period due to its own policy!
Execution of Saddam Hussain by Bush Administration was another heart-wrenching event world had witnessed. Erstwhile American president George W Bush had punished him for ‘crime against humanity!’ Just think!!
Some natural tragedies had united the world. Lakhs of people from several countries had lost their lives in Tsunami in 2004. Earthquakes in Bhuj, Kashmir and Haiti had proved how vulnerable humans are in front of natural fury. Floods in Pakistan and India too have proved the helplessness of individuals. Helps poured in from all parts of the world for the survivors!
Man made catastrophes too were there: the most ghastly one was Gujarat Genocide of 2002. The perpetrator of the crime is still ruling the state. Series of terror attacks (mostly in religious places) in India have tried to shake the secular base of India, though we are successful enough to prove our resilient. Rise of the Maoists due to lack of development and economic backwardness.
We have lost leaders like Jyoti Basu, a magic called Michael Jackson.
No, everything is not shrouded in pessimism. ‘If you look for the stars, you will land on the moon’ India has indeed proved this under the captainship of R Madhavan Nair. Team Chandrayaan was a super success story for us. In the world of sports, Saina Nehwal, Abhinav Bindra, Sushil Kumar, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Lakshman (for crushing mighty Aussies in 2001 and SA in 2010) made us proud. By winning Oscars A R Rahman and Gulzar simply made us ecstatic. India for the first time ever got Madam President, which is indeed very significant from Indian sociological point of view. Sunita Williams, Kalpana Chawla, Amitav Ghosh, Kiran Desai and others had made an Indian Summer.
Here in India, Right to Information Act, 2005 has become a reality. Right to Education has become a fundamental right. Environment awareness now is at its best.
If we name this decade as the decade of Information Revolution, that won’t be an exaggeration. Advent of dozens of news channels in India and few thousand papers are giving each other a healthy competition. New Media, internet, social networking, and micro blogging are the latest trends which have empowered the general mass.
Now, a little personal anecdote. How was the decade for me? I have finished my schooling, universities with a good percentage and topper awards. Joined my dream job and left it. Presently serving an institute which I never thought that I could land there…
May be New Decade will see many such impossible! The beginning is indeed unique…
1.1.11!!
*(Probably I have forgotten many things, these are from my memory only!! So pardon me…)
Sunday, 19 December 2010
God of All Things: TONdulkar!
24th April, 1973!
37 years back The God was born… Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar!
Lovingly called as ‘5 feet something’, he achieved the Everest with ease! Reaching new heights in all of the calendar years have become his habit. I don’t want to go into the mega statistics of his cricketing genius, but all I know that I am lucky that I am seeing a ‘performing God’ for last 22 years!!
In this ever-changing world, the Constant is Sachin Tendulkar! He made us cry, laugh, scream… Every Indian thinks him as his family member! Indeed a ‘Bharat Ratna!’ Though when is he going to get that, no body knows!!
And why I am calling him God over and again? Simply because I am an atheist and believers say, God makes ‘impossible’ to ‘possible!’ and I am watching Sachin is achieving unimaginable milestones by crushing our fears of ‘impossible!’
Experts are there to give their opinions, all I know is (50+46) tons are nothing for the Run-Machine!!
After all, God is the maker of his own Destiny! He has made his own, so of ours… To me, you are ‘the God of All things!’
37 years back The God was born… Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar!
Lovingly called as ‘5 feet something’, he achieved the Everest with ease! Reaching new heights in all of the calendar years have become his habit. I don’t want to go into the mega statistics of his cricketing genius, but all I know that I am lucky that I am seeing a ‘performing God’ for last 22 years!!
In this ever-changing world, the Constant is Sachin Tendulkar! He made us cry, laugh, scream… Every Indian thinks him as his family member! Indeed a ‘Bharat Ratna!’ Though when is he going to get that, no body knows!!
And why I am calling him God over and again? Simply because I am an atheist and believers say, God makes ‘impossible’ to ‘possible!’ and I am watching Sachin is achieving unimaginable milestones by crushing our fears of ‘impossible!’
Experts are there to give their opinions, all I know is (50+46) tons are nothing for the Run-Machine!!
After all, God is the maker of his own Destiny! He has made his own, so of ours… To me, you are ‘the God of All things!’
Friday, 17 December 2010
Yes, Comrade! Welcome...
It was not ‘business as usual’ in a B-school campus! Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta, one who basks in glory of being ‘best finance institute’ invited a Comrade to deliver speech in Institute Lecture series! Mr. Sitaram Yechuri, CPIM Rajya Sabha MP was the guest for today’s occasion!
The discussion was all about Crony Capitalism with special reference to ‘all India Radia!’ How Crony Capitalism is destroying the Democracy at large came back over and again in his speech.
What is this Crony Capitalism? It is a form of capitalist economy in which success in business depends on close relationships between business people and government officials. In other words, it’s a ‘sweetheart deal’ and nepotism performs at its best while government (or any government officials) grants contracts, legal permits, special tax breaks etc.
Yechuri pointed out, collateral damage is taking place due to vicious presence of Crony Capitalism. Not only multi crore rupees 2G Spectrum Allocation or Commonwealth Game Scandal, but the ‘invisible hand’ (not in the context of Adam Smith) was seen in illegal mining, Adarsh housing scams too! In this nexus, natural resources too have been destroyed (illegal mining etc.) and amount of collateral damage was huge! If corruption becomes the key in almost every deal, so how could be democracy prevail unhurt? So, carcinogenic Crony Capitalism is gradually chomping the strongest pillar of Indian Constitution i.e. Democracy!
Honest politicians are soon becoming an endangered species; even Yechuri has jokingly admitted the same while telling that ‘(for a politician) most creative ingenuity can be found in corruption and money-making, though others are not in other orbit!’ The way thousands of crores of rupees being wasted in several scams, that is actually hindering the social progress. ‘Right to Education’ can actually becomes a full-fledged reality had thousands of crores of rupees not being wasted in 2G scams! According to a survey by NEPA, now it would take more time to be implemented as more and more fund is needed. Food Security is still a dream for India. Left parties asked the government, no need to discriminate AP-BPL, give all Indian household 35-kg rice/month. For that Rs. 82,000 crore additional fund is needed and now just think of what happened during CWG!! The reality is, 77% of Indian population living on less than 20 rupees a day, whereas we are getting to see almost in every second day a multi-million scam is unfolding! So, in a way Crony Capitalism is destroying the future is what Yechuri believes. Can India actually afford this much of waste? He asked the questions to the managers-to-be!
But how could a politician stay away from political comments? References of ‘Historical Blunder’ did come while replying a question, so did the issue of tussle between Achuthnandan-Vijayan in a subtle manner, Mamata Banerjee’s Poltical Hungama! Though Comrade didn’t take a single name other than A Raja!
With great pride he told, that not a single name of any left leaders in 2G scams, and in Hawalacase was there! But morality, principle, value is no more a basis while politicians ask for vote! ‘People’s mandate has been bought’ so many a times bright and deserving persons are losing and Money-Muscle is having the last laugh!
He has drawn our attention to the fact, two Indias are being made. At one hand, we are striking deals after deals with G5 countries and focusing on bilateral trade, technology transfer etc. and on the other more than 40% people don’t get a square meal a day! Population has become liability for the government whereas this must be seen as an asset as 54% of them are under the age of 25. So if all of them can be provided with food-health-education, India can change and for better.
But why should anyone vote for the Left? While replying this question, Yechuri told that India wasn’t fall down during the last economic recession because of Left’s timely intervention with government’s economic policies. He cited the examples of, not allowing full convertibility of rupee, foreign banks taking over Indian banks, FDI in Insuarance, Pension fund privatization etc. Had all of them taken place, could India survive the recession? Then a square drive, ‘aren’t these enough reasons to vote for the leftists coupling with morality and honesty, what say?’
Yechuri believes that, economic reforms have in-built mechanism to Crony Capitalism. By any means Crony Capitalism needs to be eliminated. He requested PM Manmohan Singh to take the initiatives in doing so.
And he ended with changing nature of management studies. He called Management studies a ‘trans- disciplinary’ segment, no more a multi-disciplinary! And onus is on the management graduates to drive away the evil called Crony Capitalism while making policies for their respective employers! And future of India lies in management exercise!
Though I wanted to ask him a question… Crony Capitalism is destructive, so is capitalism (though from a different perspective). Between these, where does Communism stand? Is it really dead or actually can play a role in throwing away Crony Capitalism? The question was unheard and naturally, the reply too!!
Still, Welcome comrade!! Different stroke in the hotbed of Capitalism!!
The discussion was all about Crony Capitalism with special reference to ‘all India Radia!’ How Crony Capitalism is destroying the Democracy at large came back over and again in his speech.
What is this Crony Capitalism? It is a form of capitalist economy in which success in business depends on close relationships between business people and government officials. In other words, it’s a ‘sweetheart deal’ and nepotism performs at its best while government (or any government officials) grants contracts, legal permits, special tax breaks etc.
Yechuri pointed out, collateral damage is taking place due to vicious presence of Crony Capitalism. Not only multi crore rupees 2G Spectrum Allocation or Commonwealth Game Scandal, but the ‘invisible hand’ (not in the context of Adam Smith) was seen in illegal mining, Adarsh housing scams too! In this nexus, natural resources too have been destroyed (illegal mining etc.) and amount of collateral damage was huge! If corruption becomes the key in almost every deal, so how could be democracy prevail unhurt? So, carcinogenic Crony Capitalism is gradually chomping the strongest pillar of Indian Constitution i.e. Democracy!
Honest politicians are soon becoming an endangered species; even Yechuri has jokingly admitted the same while telling that ‘(for a politician) most creative ingenuity can be found in corruption and money-making, though others are not in other orbit!’ The way thousands of crores of rupees being wasted in several scams, that is actually hindering the social progress. ‘Right to Education’ can actually becomes a full-fledged reality had thousands of crores of rupees not being wasted in 2G scams! According to a survey by NEPA, now it would take more time to be implemented as more and more fund is needed. Food Security is still a dream for India. Left parties asked the government, no need to discriminate AP-BPL, give all Indian household 35-kg rice/month. For that Rs. 82,000 crore additional fund is needed and now just think of what happened during CWG!! The reality is, 77% of Indian population living on less than 20 rupees a day, whereas we are getting to see almost in every second day a multi-million scam is unfolding! So, in a way Crony Capitalism is destroying the future is what Yechuri believes. Can India actually afford this much of waste? He asked the questions to the managers-to-be!
But how could a politician stay away from political comments? References of ‘Historical Blunder’ did come while replying a question, so did the issue of tussle between Achuthnandan-Vijayan in a subtle manner, Mamata Banerjee’s Poltical Hungama! Though Comrade didn’t take a single name other than A Raja!
With great pride he told, that not a single name of any left leaders in 2G scams, and in Hawalacase was there! But morality, principle, value is no more a basis while politicians ask for vote! ‘People’s mandate has been bought’ so many a times bright and deserving persons are losing and Money-Muscle is having the last laugh!
He has drawn our attention to the fact, two Indias are being made. At one hand, we are striking deals after deals with G5 countries and focusing on bilateral trade, technology transfer etc. and on the other more than 40% people don’t get a square meal a day! Population has become liability for the government whereas this must be seen as an asset as 54% of them are under the age of 25. So if all of them can be provided with food-health-education, India can change and for better.
But why should anyone vote for the Left? While replying this question, Yechuri told that India wasn’t fall down during the last economic recession because of Left’s timely intervention with government’s economic policies. He cited the examples of, not allowing full convertibility of rupee, foreign banks taking over Indian banks, FDI in Insuarance, Pension fund privatization etc. Had all of them taken place, could India survive the recession? Then a square drive, ‘aren’t these enough reasons to vote for the leftists coupling with morality and honesty, what say?’
Yechuri believes that, economic reforms have in-built mechanism to Crony Capitalism. By any means Crony Capitalism needs to be eliminated. He requested PM Manmohan Singh to take the initiatives in doing so.
And he ended with changing nature of management studies. He called Management studies a ‘trans- disciplinary’ segment, no more a multi-disciplinary! And onus is on the management graduates to drive away the evil called Crony Capitalism while making policies for their respective employers! And future of India lies in management exercise!
Though I wanted to ask him a question… Crony Capitalism is destructive, so is capitalism (though from a different perspective). Between these, where does Communism stand? Is it really dead or actually can play a role in throwing away Crony Capitalism? The question was unheard and naturally, the reply too!!
Still, Welcome comrade!! Different stroke in the hotbed of Capitalism!!
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