"In one case out of a hundred a point is excessively
discussed because it is obscure; in the ninety-nine remaining it is obscure
because it is excessively discussed."
—Edgar Allan Poe (American, 1809-1849)
Word for the day
Talisman (N)
Anything whose presence exercises a remarkable or powerful
influence on human feelings or actions.
Malice towards none
I can say one thing with complete certainty - "Donald
Trump is not an inspiring leader. He is least likely to leave a legacy when he
demits White House."
Regardless, for four years, the USA and the world will have
to put with him.
First random thought this morning
Budget 2017: The government must realize and accept that
manufacturing sector cannot create the number of jobs India would need in next
couple of decades. The sooner they shift focus on the services and farm sector,
better it would be. The focus in manufacturing sector should be on global
competitiveness in terms of quality, productivity and efficiency. The fiscal
incentives should accordingly be reoriented.
The soul of Kashi appeared leaving the body
Kashi (also
Varanasi and Banaras) is widely known as the spiritual capital of India.
Traditionally believed to be the chosen abode of lord Shiva, this city has
significance for believers of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, and the
followers of the Bhakti movement (Kabir panthi, Raidasi).
The city nourished by the sacred waters of Mother Ganga, and
protected by Lord Shiva, Lord Hanuman, Kaal Bhairva, and Goddess Durga, has
inspired immortal souls like Gautam Buddha, Mahavir Swami, Tulsidas, Kabir,
Ravidas, Guru Nanak, et. al.
Historically, many Hindu and Muslim rulers patronized the city,
making it one of the prominent center for study of religion, art and culture.
The city produced many legends in the fields of science, music, dance, art,
literature and spirituality. Since ages, the city has been attracting students,
research scholars, knowledge seekers, curious and enthusiasts from world over.
In recent time, the city gained popularity as the incumbent prime
minister chose it to represent it in the parliament. Subsequently, it has been
designated as the partner city of Kyoto (the second largest city in Japan); and
also a Smart City under the urban development program of the central
government.
Admittedly, I have been madly in love with the city for decades.
Like a passionate lover I cherished almost everything about the city. But as
Geoffary Chaucer famously said seven centuries ago, "All good things must
come to an end".
On my recent visit to the city early this week, for the first time
I felt like breaking up. To me, the soul of Kashi appeared leaving the body.
Mother Ganga appeared old, tired and frustrated. First time I felt
that she is no longer willing to absorb the sins of her delinquent children.
The city appeared terribly chaotic. The people were in general inconsiderate,
insensitive and indifferent.
The melody of divine music has surrendered completely to the
cacophony of endless traffic snarls. Everyone appeared in a hurry to reach
nowhere; leaving the fellow citizens struggling on road. I experienced more
road rage and profanity than humanity and spirituality in the city.
The traditional arts and textile have been pushed back to the
narrow, dark and filthy by-lanes, as the global apparel and electronics brands
have encroached the main markets.
The traditional food that I loved is struggling to survive the
onslaught of global giants like McDonalds, Chicago Pizza, Dominos, etc.
Italian, Chinese, and continental food has become a 'must have' in parties and
family gatherings. There are disproportionate number of pharmacies, indicating
towards the deteriorating health of the dwellers.
Most disturbingly, the primary characteristic of the city -
"the Faith", appeared to have become largely Old, Rural, Illiterate,
Female and Poor....to continue tomorrow
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