Thursday, July 29, 2010
Memories flood...
Its raining heavily outside. The sound of rain lashing on the doors and windows is a wonderful sound. I do not remember hearing this sound for almost a decade.It is not thunderstorms or sudden natures fury, this is consistent, heavy rain.
Years back, when I was a kid, that is to say when I did not know what a hurricane was or a low pressure in some sea was, I used to think that this was cool, this rains. Well, sea never frightened me. I had been to Kozhikode beach, some other beaches around the place Chavakkad, it was fun - not dangerous. It never occured to me what was frightening lay beyond that. Still, I did not think too much. Later, the stories of hurricanes and natural disasters became fodder for news. It still didn't frighten me.
Maybe it is the lack of interest in such news or the monotony of the reporting that make me stay away from the TV, but it has also made me ignorant about this rain. Why is it raining so heavily? Should I really be asking this? It is good that nature is as it is. Let it rain. Why do we worry when it does not rain? And more worry when it does? Seems like a comedian got it bullseye. The right amount of hotness in a shower is between hot and cold - a few degree below super hot and microns above freaking cold. We want everything the way it is not and wish for something else.
Still, I feel so much at peace looking out of the window, the water filled fields and coconut trees lashing at each other with their arms, it is a beautiful sight. I do not remember many things in my past, but I do remember the trees, I remember the slopes, even the tarred roads, I remember looking out from back seat of car at retreating elephants, so I do remember. Why is it so important to remember formulae and rather remember these things? Fortunately I am able to do both, barely enough to sustain myself in this world.
Rains always brings back memories.. I have many to share.. Would you like to hear?
Friday, July 16, 2010
Phir Mile Sur Mera Tumhara
None of them were included, sadlyWhen I saw all the thumbs up in FB, I was intrigued to see the new version of beautiful and inspiring National integration piece aired in DD two decades back. I was totally disappointed. Counter to normal nature of mine, I was totally disgusted with this, not finding even some silver linings anywhere in this lo[oo]ng debacle. This doesn't represent India. I was wondering why so many were promoting this video which was more of mish-mash of actors. Anyway, what I couldn't stomach, somebody has split out pretty explicitly. So before going to perhaps I'd better warn for all those with weak brains.
Reaction 1: Please read it patiently.
Reaction 2: My favorite piece.
Reaction 3: For this author has seen the real one.
Tuesday, July 06, 2010
Shaheed Bhagat Singh
Image via WikipediaThe place where I found most inspired was at the well at Jalianwala Bagh, historically known as the scene of worst tragedy in the course of Indian independence struggle. At 1000, the place was lit up with morning sun; and all around I could not find anything that was reminding me of the massacre. There were relics and structures which were supposed to remind of the sacrifices made. I reached the martyrs well and suddenly I was taken over by a feeling. This was the well where many people had jumped in to, to save themselves. The well did not have a big mouth and was dark inside. I was feeling what all the relics and structures couldn't tell me. I was reminded of the life of Bhagat Singh, I could feel what Bhagat Singh felt. Bhagat Singh was only 12 years old when this happened. I was surprised why he never felt hatred, but only a desire to live free. I had been living in a free country from my birth. I was brought up where all my thoughts were freely spoken. I have been party to discussions on Nehru, among others, in bad light, not of the person but about their policies and decisions. I have been able to learn about the greatness of these men from these discussions. I have always looked up on Bhagat Singh, the way he conquered his mind and lived free even under the British rule. The well made me look around in a whole different light. I was feeling free. I realized when I had so much given to me by those who lived before me, I should give more to those who come after me. If I could utilize my learning, my life would have some meaning.
Labels: Bhagat Singh, Jalianwala Bagh, Punjab
