Let Us Welcome 2009 Constructively by Saying “No” to Wild Celebrations

People all across the world have started making arrangements for the New Year. Year 2008 may have been a good year for some, however, for many it has not been so good. The reason being global recession resulting into large scale lay offs and pay cuts. As a result, for many the celebration for the New Year may be a low key affair. Back home, we are also going to witness less celebration owing to Mumbai terror attacks. In fact, most of the New Year shows which were supposed to showcase famous Bollywood actors and actresses have already been called off. This is indeed a great way to pay our salute to those who laid their life for the nation. In addition, security concerns have made the police more vigilant and so, most of the celebrations have been cancelled.

But, the thing that concerns me the most is the celebration that is planned for the New Year by the youngsters. Every year, we hear of some wild celebrations around this time. The most common feature of such celebrations is the involvement of young children. They smoke, booze, and dance the whole night, forgetting our old age value system. Celebration is not a bad thing, however, it has to be within the acceptable limits. How often we hear of sexual assault and sometimes, even molestation at such celebrations? The worst case is when young boys and girls drink and drive. By doing so, they not only pose a threat to their own lives, but also that of others. It is not surprising that most of the road accidents in India are the result of drunken driving. This is not restricted to only youngsters, but also grown-ups, who think that drinking is the only way to celebrate and rejoice.

In the past, we have also seen cases where indecent dance parties have been arranged by some influential people in their farm houses or 5-star hotels. For such people, these dance parties become an integral part of celebration. By hiring bar dancers, who in most cases come from financially weak families, they mock openly at our tradition, culture, and most importantly, our value system.

Are all these the right way to welcome the New Year? Instead of promising a great future for ourselves, we celebrate it wildly, without paying any heeds to our and that of others' well-being. This is high time that we all should start thinking constructively, and make our efforts to make 2009 a great year, full of prosperity, good health and growth. This is even more important as we are going through a bad phase characterised by economic slowdown, coupled with terrorist attacks on our soil. Let us all pledge to make 2009 a prosperous year for our nation, away from all insecurities that we have been living with during the last few months of 2008. This is possible by focusing on the current problems, and not wasting time in all those irrelevant wild parties.

New Year Resolution 2009: Learning From the Past Mistakes to Shape up The New

Come Dec 31 and we are all set to step into a New Year – year 2009. There will be celebrations, booze parties and all other pomps that each one of us would love to indulge ourselves. The reason is simple – bidding the past a wonderful adieu as we gear up to embrace the New Year. But, does year 2008 leave us with enough scope for celebration? Year 2008, indeed, has been not a very delightful year in India. What with the dastardly terror attacks in two of the nation's major metropolis? In retrospect, the series of five blasts that ripped through the national capital on September 13. The ghastly terror strikes in Mumbai, which took place on November 26 added salt to an already wounded nation.

The “finesse” with which the terrorists, who apparently belong to our neighbours carried out this barbaric strike is indeed a big question mark on our administration. Then again there is the global recession that is showing its ugly face even in India – even as our ministers are trying their level best to project an optimistic image of the same. Leave alone the small scale business, even the big corporate houses could not remain unaffected from this phenomenon. The result - thousands amongst us losing jobs at the snap of a finger. Not to forget the drastic pay- cuts!

Can we really slip into a celebration mood with so many of our fellow citizens succumbing to blasts and some being stripped of their daily bread, thanks to recession? May be yes, may be no. And even if it is yes, we need to analyse as to what are the reasons that we can celebrate the by-gone year for. No doubt, the terror attacks have left a dent in our national conscience, but there was a positive sign too. I found it amazing how the common man has taken the centrestage to get his heard voice through various mediums.

I was reminded of the historic sights that filled my history books – of a mass holding processions against the tyrannical British regime. It really touched me when I saw people taking to streets, posting blogs, holding mass protests to take up the cause of the safety and security of the common man. Such was their impact that even a crucial anti-terror bill was unanimously passed in Parliament – which is otherwise a house of the hooligans.

The government will be faced with a tough task this New Year. First, to come out of the question marks that is posed on the security scenario of the country. It has to adopt stringent security means to ensure that every individual feels free to move in any part of the country and rather not sleep on the threats posed to the nation. Second, on ensuring that recession does not mar the new hopes that the common man hinges on. This will happen only when there are more economic opportunities.

But I also feel, you and I have a major role to play when it comes to better ourselves as citizens as well as individuals. So, this New Year, let's all make the resolution – raising hopes in the minds of the people of a tattered nation by being an active and responsible citizen.

Ongoing global recession may cloud the Christmas Celebration

Christmas, also known as Christmastide is one of the major festivals of the Christian population that marks and honours the birth of Jesus Christ. Every year, it is celebrated on December 25 with great pomp and show. The celebration takes the form of gift giving, special prayers in the church, and not to forget, display of attractive decorations, including lights, mistletoe, Christmas trees, and so on. The popularity of this festival is growing everyday. This is the reason why Christmas is being celebrated with equal ecstasy by many non-Christians. For many, it has become a secular, cultural festival.

Exchanging gifts is the most important part of the celebrations surrounding Christmas. In European countries and other nations with Christian population, people begin to make preparations for this festival at least a month back. They start buying gifts for their loved ones. There are also many people who plan to go on a vacation to some distant place during this time. It would not be wrong to say that this is the time when they love to be extravagant. However, this year, the scenario has changed.

Global recession has resulted into large scale lay offs. Some global giants have already announced even more job cuts. Those who are fortunate enough to continue in their jobs are facing the threat of pay cuts. In fact, some big companies have already resorted to the path of pay cuts by a significant amount. As a result of all this, the heightened economic activity that we have always witnessed during Christmas holidays is likely to be missing this time.

People are not as excited as they always used to be during Christmas. The ongoing global recession, which has already hit the budget of every common man, is likely to restrict the celebration. People living in both developing and developed countries are equally hit. The retail industry which has always made huge profits on Christmas is all set to make huge losses owing to the declining purchasing power of people. Even the elite class that has always thrown big parties on the occasion of Christmas are feeling the crunch in their pockets.

A common man has already started looking for less costly alternatives for Christmas gifts. This is the reason why most of the companies are offering their products or services at highly affordable prices. With this low pricing strategy, they are hoping to attract buyers who are facing a tight budgetary constraint this time.

Id-ul-Zuha (Bakr-Id) Celebrated to commemorate those who lost their life in 26/11 Mumbai Terror attack

Id-ul-Zuha or Bakrid is one of the major Muslim festivals celebrated all over the world. It is celebrated in honour of Prophet Ibrahim, who willingly agreed to sacrifice his son for God. Thousands of Muslims offer their prayers for peace and prosperity on this auspicious day. Exchange of greetings and gifts is also a common feature of this festival, besides the sacrifice of goats.

This year, although Bakrid has been celebrated all across India, the celebrations have been kept much low profile. This gesture has not been shown by a handful of Indian Muslims, but every single Muslim in India, who strongly condemns the recent 26/11 Mumbai terror attack. Addressing the attacks as unholy and completely non-Islamic, Indian Muslims joined their hands to fight against terror. They chose the auspicious occasion of Id-ul-Zuha to express their condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this barbaric attack.

Different news channels also captured images of people wearing black bands to show their protest against those handful of lunatics who kill innocent people in the name of Islam. They were also processions arranged by the Muslim community at many places to show their protest against terrorism and also to demand justice for the martyrs.

Special prayers were also organized in the mosques for peace. Some even went to the extent of waging a war against Pakistan. Although, this day marked the sacrifice of goats (an integral part of this festival) by Muslims all across India, preparation of special delicacies, exchange of gifts and a festive mood- all were missing from the scene. Like every other Indian, they too showed their support to the government to fight terrorism. Such a gesture by Indian Muslims show the greatness of our country.

This is the land where people from different religions live in peace and harmony. This is a big slap on the face of our enemies, sitting in different parts of the world, who think they can create unrest and tension in the name of religion. Likewise, this incident should also be taken as a learning experience by those who have formed a hatred towards the Muslim community. They should realize that by hating the people of their own country (on the basis of religion), they are destroying the foundation of our nation. Till date, all Hindu-Muslim riots were politically motivated, killing innocent people. Let us say 'No' to such irrational incidents. This is the moment of crisis, and we all need to stay united for the sake of our nation. We all are Indians and love our country equally, irrespective of our religion.

Dec 1, 2008 Celebrated as the 20th Anniversary of World AIDS Day

Like a demon, AIDS has killed more than 25 million people worldwide between 1981 and 2007. It has been recognized as one of the worst diseases for the mankind. Seeing the severity of the disease, Jonathan Mann, director of the Global Programme on Aids at the World Health Organization (WHO) propounded the concept of World AIDS Day. Consequently, WHO declared December 1, 1988 as the first World Aids Day.

On Dec 1, 2008, the World AIDS Day completed its 20th anniversary. This gives us an opportunity to assess how much progress has been made by India in the direction of AIDS awareness and its prevention. I must admit that our government, several NGOs, and charitable institutions have made AIDS awareness campaign a big success during the last two decades. This has been possible also due to the involvement of international organizations and WHO in the various campaigns related to AIDS.

Today, it is common to find numerous TV advertisements that are aimed at making every common Indian aware of this deadly disease. The most interesting feature of these TV Ads is their boldness, which until recently was considered to be unacceptable for the Indian audience. Now, condom ads are no more a taboo in our society. Today, every Indian has understood the importance of AIDS awareness. Big hoardings and posters, informing people about different ways of contacting HIV and preventive steps for the same, are found to be displayed at bus stations, railway platforms, streets, shops, medical stores, hospitals, and so on.

The success that we have achieved so far, however seems small when compared to that achieved by the developed countries and many other developing countries. We may have become tolerant towards advertisements featuring the factors that cause transmission of the deadly HIV virus, but somewhere deep in our heart, we do not acknowledge the fact of getting our children know about it thoroughly. Even today, there are many families that either switch off their TV sets or press the mute button whenever there is an advertisement related to AIDS. For them, viewing such advertisements with the whole family is against our culture or tradition. This is only one aspect where we need to work upon. There are other issues as well.

Even today, an HIV positive person has to undergo social boycott, and that too from his/her own people. Recently, there have been also a few instances, where an AIDS victim has been beaten up or thrown out of the village by his neighbours. And, who will forget the controversial Richard Gere and Shilpa Shetty kiss? It was sad to see that our media gave their full attention to the 'kiss' and not the cause of the function. Richard Gere was here to address an AIDS awareness campaign. However, the whole nation simply ignored it and talked only about how he hurt the sentiments of our countrymen.

There is indeed a long way to go.

Children's Day and Child Labor: A Picture in Contrast

The festive spirit in India has always held me in thrall. Talking of festivals that are a celebration of individuality, one cannot forget the Children's Day. I still remember my scholastic days when we were informed a week earlier about the programmes that will mark the Children's Day celebration in the school, and when even the most shy guy/girl in the class would raise hands to enter his/her name in various competitions. I shall always be thankful to late Ex-Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, whose love for children resulted in dedicating a special day- November 14, Nehru's birthday- for celebration of the spirit of childhood.

As we grow up, we tend to probe into the meanings of these special days. What I considered a day for celebration, has hence become a day of purpose – the underlying meaning of Children' Day. Is Children's Day really worth when millions of children in India toil in factories or beg in the streets and are forced to pick rags as usual to feed their stomach, even as their well-off counterparts partake of the festive spirit of Children's Day? This difference is indeed a blot on our economy. Development, as I see it, should encompass every section of the society. To quote the dismal figure, there are over 8.4 million child labors employed in different industries. Hardly aware that there is a special day for children, these kids dedicate this day to making their ends meet, some even by being engaged in hazardous jobs. This is indeed a pathetic plight, when there are laws screaming out that it is a serious offense to make children below 14 years work.

Chacha Nehru himself believed in providing children with a safe and loving environment, so that they can take great strides and contribute to the progress of the nation. No doubt there have some efforts on the part of the government to bring the underprivileged kids in the fold of various child development schemes like the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, Mid Day Meal and many more. However, their implementation has been marred by many socio-political (including red tapism) and economic factors. Again, there are various NGOs which organize different functions for the street kids and the school dropouts on Children's Day. But these are only patches in the whole scheme of development.

Why not use the Children's Day as a platform for awareness about the evils of child labor? Why not award those industries which do not employ child labor on Children's Day? These efforts might sound the “good only in paper” sorts, but yes a strong political will and yes, a more strong public will- from citizens like you and me - can surely go a long way to add a holistic meaning to the Children's Day. After all, children are the future of every nation.

Guru Nanak Jayanti: Let's Celebrate it in its True Essence

Guru Nanak was the first guru of the Sikhs. Guru Nanak Jayanti, also known as Guru Parab is celebrated on the full moon day of Kartika. It is all about celebrating the birth anniversary of a great saint like Guru Nanak, who will always be remembered as one of the greatest social reformers, preachers and saints. Although, I am not a Sikh, I always eagerly wait for this sacred festival. This is because, I simply love the prasad and food which are distributed through free lungers, all across the country, and even abroad. There are pandals at different places to organize free lungers and distribute prasad. Visiting a Gurudwara on this auspicious occasion is also very exciting. But, of late, I have started realizing that there is more to this festival than just eating at free lungers.

Guru Nanak taught mankind non-violence, love and unity. Are we following it? I don't think so. Today, there are communal riots, regionalism and hatred everywhere in India. On one hand, there are some politically motivated groups who are destroying church and humiliating nuns. On the other hand, in Maharashtra, a handful of people are on roads protesting against the North Indians, who have gone their to earn their bread. Is this a country that Guru Nanak dreamt of? Whether you are a Sikh or not, you need to think deeply about all that Guru Nanak has taught us. He was a saint who tried to bring harmony among all religions. Not only this, he traveled to different places all over India and preached humanity, unity, and also liberalized many social practices for the betterment of common people. In spite of all this, today he is only remembered on his birthday. His teachings have not found a place in our day to day life. This is reason why we are witnessing so much of hatred, violence and greediness for power in today's time.

According to me, today, on this auspicious occasion, we should take a pledge to follow what Guru Nanak taught us. We should live with peace and love. We should respect one another and try to make the world a better place to live. This would be the celebration of Guru Nanak Jayanti in its true essence.

Deepawali: A Festival Celebrated at the Cost of Lost Childhood in Fire Cracker Factories

Deepawali is one of the most eagerly awaited festivals in India. People make numerous plans to celebrate it with great pomp and show. Children in particular look forward to burn fire crackers, wearing new dresses. Their parents make it a point that they buy enough fire crackers for their children, which can last for at least 3-4 days.

When I was small, I too loved to burn as many fire crackers as possible. I always counted the number of crackers given to me and that to my sister to see whether I got an equal number of fire crackers or not. However, as I grew up, I came to know the cruel story behind all that brightness and sound of fire crackers. It was alarming to know that children of my age were made to work in fire cracker factories for countless number of hours.

Poverty and parental negligence compelled numerous children in the age group of 10-16 years to work in a hazardous place like a fire cracker factory. As the process of making fire crackers involves dangerous raw materials and techniques, the life of children are always at a grave risk. The fire factory owners allure small children from poor families to work for them in return of just a few rupees. For these children, Deepawali does not mean fun and enjoyment.

Today, I no more burn fire crackers and also discourage other people to burn them. How can we even think of celebrating Deepawali by burning fire crackers at the cost of innocent lives? There are many other ways to celebrate it. For instance, you can worship Goddess Lakshmi, distribute gifts and sweets among your relatives and friends, and also buy new things for your home. Today, with increasing number of people buying fire crackers on Deepawali, it no more signifies the triumph of the truth over evil. Rather, it is more of a celebration that encourages child labour and that too, in extremely gruelling conditions. In a way, people who burn crackers on Diwali are becoming a part of the exploitation of innocent children.

This Deepawali, if you are planning to burn fire crackers with your family, think one more time. This is because your decision to abstain yourself from burning crackers may go a long way in promising a better future to numerous unfortunate children, who are forced to forget their childhood and work in fire cracker factories. Government may have taken stringent steps to curb child labour, but it is you who can make a difference.

Karva Chauth: A Glamourized Festival that is Popular Even Amongst the Younger Generation

As I am unmarried, I have never celebrated the festival of Karva Chauth. However, this festival has always fascinated me for its inherent charm and significance. What is even more exciting is its glamorous status in today's time. This is the result of increasing interest of companies in this festival, who see it as a great opportunity to market their products and services. Now, it is not only Diwali that witnesses intensive marketing by big companies, but also the festival of Karva Chauth.

Many companies have started offering their products and services with attractive schemes to people who are looking for ideal gift items for their wives. I For instance, I have seen one of my friends waiting eagerly for Karva Chauth as her husband always gives her expensive gift items on this particular day. It has become customary for husbands to offer gifts to their better halves on this auspicious occasion. So, companies are also targeting people who celebrate Karva Chauth with great pomp and show.

Last week I went to a nearby mall. I could find that every shop was beautifully decorated for the occasion of Karva Chauth. The jewelry and saree shops were offering special discounts and other attractive schemes. Even restaurants were advertising special delicacies for the couples who love to dine outside on the night of Karva Chauth. Some renowned beauty salons and clinics, with international fame were also seen targeting customers with their special beauty packages, leave aside the local beauty parlours. One thing is clear, husbands now do not require to indulge themselves into too much of thinking while deciding an attractive gift for their wives. The market is ready with numerous options, suiting every budget.

Another recent trend that I have observed is the increasing participation of young generation in this festival. This is indeed surprising because our hectic life schedule and western influence have made us, particularly our young generation, to forget many festivals. There are many people who do not even know the significance and essence of many festivals, which we have been celebrating for ages. In such a scenario, it is surprising to find young generation celebrate the festival of Karva Chauth for their loved ones. Even many of my unmarried friends keep this fast for their to-be-husbands. What ever be the reason, it is good to see that Karva chauth still holds importance in the lives of old and young alike.

Dussehra Celebrations might turn sour this year

My friend has come all the way from London to celebrate Dussehra and Diwali with us in India. He loves the way festivals are celebrated in India. The pomp and gaiety of festive celebrations in our country is known all over the world.

My friend asked me to visit a nearby Ramlila. I was a bit reluctant in going to Ramlila initially as there is a huge crowd over there but as he pushed me hard, I took him there. I was really surprised to find a lesser number of people over there. At first I thought that it is yet another cause of the latest Mall culture in Delhi where people prefer to go for shopping, watching movies, having dinner or just chilling out. Who has time to visit these crowded, noisy places like Ramlila? But then after looking at the tight Police security in the Ramlila ground, I realised what is the exact cause for this. The number of blasts that took place in different parts of Delhi in last few days have seriously affected the usual Ramlila celebrations. Although, Delhi Police has tightened its security system but people are scared and prefer to stay at their homes only. Since so many years, Ramlila is considered as an important part of Dussehra celebrations. It generally starts nine days before Dussehra. Be it rural or urban areas, people really cherish going to this fare. It is a place full of fun-filled activities such as riding on swings, eating street food, watching theatrical performance based on Lord Ram's life and lot more.

But, this year many people did not visit Ramlila. Terror has taken such a toll on Delhiites that they prefer to stay at their homes than enjoying themselves at such fares. I do not think many people will visit Ramlila on Dussehra too. They will rather prefer to watch the effigies burn on their Television sets. When Ramlila could not bring people out of their homes, who can expect the usual crowd and festive spirit during Diwali too. I am sure it can be a cause of concern for many who do good businesses during Diwali days.

Navratra: Do we celebrate it in its True Essence

As Navratras approach, people can be seen making so many arrangements for its celebration. While big decorated pandals in some big parks become a customary phenomenon, arrangements for “Dandiya” and “Jagaran” get on a full swing mode. Celebrating Navratras is an old age custom and therefore has become an integral part of our tradition and rich heritage. While Dandiya offers full enjoyment to people by giving them an opportunity to sing and dance the whole night, Jagaran allows them to offer devotional prayers at the feet of Goddess Durga. People also do not drink liquor or eat non vegetarian food during the nine days of Navratras.

In spite of all the pomp and show that we get to see during Navratras, I have never felt anything special about it. Although as a

child, I had enjoyed a few celebrations arranged during Navratras, as I started growing, the charm of this festival was simply fading away for me. All I felt was how can a country where Goddess Durga is worshipped in a special way, afford to go on with the prevalent discrimination against women in the society. It is no more a hidden fact that Indian women not only face discrimination, but are also the most vulnerable victims of both domestic and social violence. How can we worship a goddess when women in our country a

re living in an undignified manner? Do we actually celebrate Navratras in its true essence? Well, the answer is a big “No” as can be evident from the rising rape and molestation cases in India.

Back to my hometown, Koltata, where Durga Puja is the most important festival, is also celebrated during Navratras. The whole year we used to wait for those five days of celebration. New dresses and shoes were an integral part of our celebration. As long as I was a small girl, I used to wait eagerly for it. However, as I grew up, I had to face several incidents of eve teasing right inside the pandal where the idol of Goddess Durga had been placed. It did not matter whether I was there with my parents or brothers. As a result, I did not feel like going to pandals any more. My enjoyment during Durga Puja got restricted to only attending the morning puja and eating the 'prasad'.

All I know is that the celebration of Navratras would make sense when every Indian would take a vow to respect womanhood. Goddess Durga will also shower her blessings when she would be worshipped on a land free from all atrocities against women.

Onam - A Festival Full Of Mirth and Celebrations

I think that there can be no better term to describe our country than “Incredible India”. It is a comprehensive way to describe the beauty of India's rich tradition and customs. India-land of different cultures, religions and customs, a country where every state is unique in its own special way. The love and pride for my country gets stronger every time I visit a new state.

Few days back, I visited my friend's ancestral home in Kerala and enjoyed the beautiful festival called Onam. Onam is one of Kerala's most important harvest festivals that celebrates the grace and abundance of nature after a year of hard labour. According to the legends, Onam is the celebration that marks the homecoming of King Mahabali. It is the day when people of Kerala pay glorious tribute to the memory of this benign king who gave his all for his subjects. Celebrated every year in the Malayalam month, Chingam, (end of August and beginning of September), this year Onam festival was celebrated from September 10-16.

Onam ranges from four to ten days, starting from Atham to Thiruvonam, depending on the region. The festive celebrations include worshiping, enjoying music and dance, indulging in sports, boat races and eating delicious food. To celebrate the mirth of the season, new clothes are bought. Women wear new sarees and elaborate jewellery. Children go out of their homes to gather beautiful flowers to decorate the yards of their homes for ten days of Onam. I was surprised to know that there is a different flower to be used for every day of the festival. Together with their mothers; children decorate their homes with beautiful and artistic designs of rangolis and pookkalam. The rangoli is made using coloured rice pasta and pookkalam with flowers. They also make the native flower carpet known as 'onapookalam'. It is the highlight of all these decorations.

Being a sports lover, I personally enjoyed the spectacular snake boat race on River Pamba. Thousands of people gather to witness the exciting Snake Boat races. Each snake boat belongs to a village along the banks of the river Pamba and is named after it only. People take pride in their boats and worship it like a deity. Only men are allowed to board or even touch a boat and that too barefoot. Every year the boat is oiled mainly with fish oil, coconut shell, and carbon, mixed with eggs to keep the wood strong and slippery in the water.

Thus, Onam is the carnival of Kerala and every single person living there looses himself in its celebrations and rituals. I feel lucky to be a part of this merry-making festival.

BPO Culture: Good or bad for Indian youth?

BPO or Business Process Outsourcing has become a common phenomenon in India. Targeting undergraduates and those who are in their late twenties, BPOs are currently one of the major sources of employment for the Indian youth. Even, I started my career as a customer care executive at a reputed BPO for US clients. While working there, I have always felt that BPOs provide a golden opportunity to all those young girls and boys who want to work for financing their future studies. An undergraduate working for a BPO today, earns quite a handsome salary to support his day-to-day expenses as well as studies. I personally know many youngsters who have come from small cities to establish themselves in a metropolitan city. They feel fortunate enough to be able to grab a decent job in a BPO, which allows them to feel financially independent for the time being. They no more need to ask their parents to send them money. But, this is the only positive side of the BPO culture.

Today I am no more working for BPOs. This is primarily because I was working in night shifts, as I had to serve US clients. Today, most of the BPOs are US based as companies there constantly look for an educated human force available at cheap rates. Such an opportunity is readily available in developing countries like India. As a result, most of these BPOs have to work in various odd shifts. In a recent study conducted, it has been established that prolonged night shifts can adversely affect our entire biological cycle resulting in many ailments. So, are we ready to get our young generation entrapped into an unhealthy work schedule? In addition to this, BPOs also bring with them a strong western culture which has made our youngsters accustomed to a lifestyle characterised by fast food, smoking, boozing, branded clothes, expensive gadgets and many more.

There is another crux in the whole matter concerning BPO culture. More and more youngsters are getting attracted to BPO jobs owing to a higher starting salary coupled with various perks and incentives that are not offered in any other industry. As a result, somewhere we are losing a workforce which could have been one of the most productive human resources for India by diverting them into engineering, medical science, economics, and other fields which are crucial for the development of the country.

Relevance of Teachers Day in the Present Day Context

The month of September starts with celebration in its very first week. This is on the occasion of Teacher's day, which is celebrated on September 5 every year. In school, we used to look forward to the teachers' day celebrations. On the day, a large number of students used to perform different plays and dance numbers, and then present each teacher with gifts and mementos. When I look back and remember those days today, I realize that all the rejoicing and effort we used to put in for the celebration came from the deep regard we held for our teachers.

In fact, a tutor plays a very important role in shaping the future of all his/her students. For all the students, their teachers are their idols, whom they look up to in the formative years of their life. Students usually follow their teachers in the manners, dressing style, etiquette and everything else. However, this is not the case anymore. In fact, I am yet to come across any student who respects his teachers as much as we did. A few days back, when I asked my niece (who studies in the same school as I did) as to how she was planning to celebrate Teacher's day, and whether she had bought gifts for her teacher, I was surprised to hear her response. She said that she had no plans for celebration, and completely lacked enthusiasm in even talking about the event.

Such attitude amongst students can be attributed to the decreased dedication amongst the teachers. The new age teachers do not consider it to be their responsibility to shape the lives of their students. In fact, it would not be wrong to say that very few of them are dedicated towards their work, of influencing the personality of their students. This is why they also fail to command respect from the students. This has given a major setback to the student-teacher relationship. As a result of this, the present day students also fail to respect their teachers. In many cases, they do not fall short of disrespecting the tutors and disregarding their orders. This is why; Teacher's Day holds little importance in the present day scenario.

So, presently, all students and teachers who intend to celebrate the day should take this opportunity to make a new beginning and do away with their shortcomings. They should strive to start afresh and give a new meaning to the student-teacher relationship. While the teachers should try and create a congenial atmosphere for the students to grow up in and also inculcate high virtues in the students, the students should also try to give due respect to the tutors. This would be celebrating Teacher's day in its true meaning.

The Art of Bargaining In India

India is a country of many languages, ethnicities, cultures, traditions and customs. And if you happen to live in a metropolitan city in the country, then you also tend to meet people from diverse backgrounds, who are striving to co-exist in one place. They follow different practices, celebrate different festivals, believe in different Gods, and even speak different languages. However, one skill that you would find common amongst them all is the art of bargaining. That's right- to survive in any village or city in India, having the skill of bargaining is a big necessity. And if you do not have it, you are sure to learn it in the formative years of your life.

In my case, ever since I was a child, I would see my grandma haggle with the local vegetable hawker on the prices of veggies. And after a few minutes, she would end up convincing the vendor to accept lower prices. Also, as a child when I would accompany my mom to the different markets in old and New Delhi such as the markets of Lajpat Nagar and Sarojini Nagar, the markets would be full of outcries of vendors selling their ware and urging people to purchase them. Right from the fruit shopkeepers, to the cloth vendors, the crockery owners and most of the other vendors would be ready to bargain and in the end sell the products at prices ranging from are 25 percent to 70 percent of the original values offered by them. And even after so many years, things haven't changed a bit.

As I grew older, bargaining became a recurring activity even for me. Now, every time I need to get an auto rickshaw, I have to haggle with the driver to settle the price for the journey, as their meters are customarily out of order. Also, every time I need bric-a-bracs for the house from Sarojini Nagar, junk jewelery and handicraft items for myself from Dilli Haat, trendy clothes from Janpath or electronics from the underground Palika Bazaar, I ensure to spend enough time in bargaining with the shopkeepers. In this way, I am able to get the best possible value for my hard earned money besides enjoying the experience of bargaining with the shopkeepers, which adds more pleasure to shopping!

Tarnetar Fair - Saurasthra, Gujarat

While traveling to Gujarat last year, I also visited the picturesque area of Saurashtra. Luckily, I got to visit the Tarnetar fair, which coincided with my visit to Saurashtra. Visiting the traditional fair was a truly awe-inspiring experience, which I will remember all through my life. The Tarnetar mela is an popular festival for the natives of Gujarat, which is organized in the month of August or September every year. The site of the fair is the Trineshwara temple and its inception dates back to thousands of years. During my visit, I also got to know about the historic significance of the fair. The mela takes place every year to celebrate the wedding of the two important character in the epic of Mahabharata, namely Draupadi with Arjuna. Before the legendary wedding, Draupadi's father had organized a "Swayamwar", which was won by Arjuna, and culminated in the marriage of the two. Listening to this story from one of the locals brought tears to my eyes, as I was instantly reminded of my childhood times, when my grand mother used to relate stories from the epics of the Mahabharata to us.

During my visit, I saw a lot of local women and men folk, who come in to the place dressed up in their ethnic attire, looking for prospective grooms and brides in the area. The men folk who were looking for brides carry Tarnetra Chhatirs or embroidered umbrellas as an indication of their bachelorhood. The maidens, on the other hand, were decked up in very colorful Gujarati clothes and ethnic jewelery. I also noticed that if a girl would stop by a suitor, this would indicate that she is interested in tying the knot with him. This whole atmosphere of matchmaking was heightened by some commendable performances of folk dances of garba, ras and hudo, songs, devotional music and other cultural aspects. Apart from this, the place was full of exhibitions of handicrafts of all types from different local artisans.

During my visit, I also saw a lot of enthusiastic foreigners who had come to visit the place in large numbers. In this way, the fair also proves to be a great platform to promote the country's rich heritage and culture. It is also a source of occupation to many and at the same time, the mela promotes the Indian tourism across different country. Even this year, I am looking forward to visit the place again and have a blast in the most colorful fair all across India!

Can you tie the Band of Rakhi to anyone? Think again!

The month of August brings with itself a host of festivals to celebrate. Of them, the one that keeps me waiting throughout the year is festival of Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan. Rakhi emphasizes the relation that every sister shares with her brother, who vows to save her from all perils of the world. Well, that's the significance of the festival of Rakhi. However, it really hurts to see how the purity of the festival is being maligned and its significance mellowed by many people. The practice is especially prevalent amongst young boys and girls, who tie the band to almost anyone, not with the motive of establishing a real brother and sister relationship but to be able to freely speak to and be with people whom they like. Sometimes, they also tie the band to ween away people with different intentions towards them. I guess an incident that I witnessed recently would help you to understand that statement properly.

A couple days of back, a friend of mine was narrating an incident where a guy had approached her with some different intentions. She also reciprocated his feelings and was rather keen to start up with a relationship with him. But at the same time, she was also scared of coming out in the open about the relationship, lest her parents come to know about it. To avoid this situation, she tied a rakhi on him to legalize their relation. Though she was quite happy with her feat, I some how could not agree with her point of view.

For me, rakhi is extremely auspicious. Even if I would tie it to someone who is not in my blood relation, the person has to be very special in order to get the stature of a brother in my life. If you ask me such an act only demeans the the significance of Raksha Bandhan and also maligns the pious relationship between a brother and a sister. Recently it is a trend mostly with school and college going girls who also follow the same thing, with the intention of getting liberty to be with the person they like.

Its not as if this trend has originated recently. It was quite in vogue even when I was in school some ten years back. Although I used to laugh it off then, now, when I am more mature and exactly understand the significance of that tiny silk thread. This is why I find this practice to be grossly unethical.

So, here's urging all those girls to understand the importance and sacred nature of the ceremony. There sure are many other ways to be with the person you love, other than demeaning the pious festival.

Is Friendship Day (3rd Aug) Truly Meant For India?

“We had joy we had fun we had seasons in the sun,” ...These famous lines from a song from the Back Street Boys holds up the image of an evergreen friendship in my mind. It brings back the reminences of my school days when every year on the first Sunday of August, we six boys used to take a firm oath to maintain our friendship for ever. Today almost after ten years of passing out from the school, we don't even know each others whereabouts.

This thing makes me ponder over the fact that what is the relevance of friendship day now for me and even what relevance does it have in India. I remember spending a lot of my pocket money in buying greeting cards, gifts and even treating my friends on this very day, but were they worth enough? After so much exposure in life and facing so much harsh reality that life offers, I just find it a waste of time, energy and money.

I still have friends whom I never wish at all on this day, but they are still my best friends in place of those with whom I use to swear for maintaining friendship and taking holy oath on this 'auspicious day'. I think it depends upon the emotion and dedication for each other that strengthen the bond, not expressing your feeling for a friend on one particular day. I see people wearing friendship bands and flaunting them in front of everyone just to show that they have so many friends or they are liked by so many people. Even the thing that makes me laugh is people have made friendship bands as their style statement and their parameter of measuring a friendship has become the cost of the gifts that they are offered by their friends. So, what is the sense of celebrating such day?

I find it a sheer copy of the western culture like the other imposed 'auspicious occasions' such as Mother's day, Father's day or the most 'auspicious day'- valentines day. I feel do we need any particular day to show our emotion, gratitude and love for our father, mother or our beloved ones? I think every day is a mother's day, father's day and a valentines day. These all auspacious days are imposed on our Indian culture to milch money. Who are the benefeciaries out of the celebrations of these occasions? These are western greeting cards and gifts suppliers like Archies or hallmark. This is the reason why they are always promoting such occasions in a big way. They are banking upon the youths who are completely obsessed with everything western. If you don't celebrate such days, you are not a trendy or a modern guy.

The celebration of such occasions, I feel, will only lead us to such a situation when we will start remembering our friends or our beloved only due to these days. So, I firmly believe that the celebration of friendship day is only a sheer copy of the west and is being promoted in India to harness rich profits by the multinational companies. It is not at all meant for India where still 27 percent of the populatin is living below poverty line and fighting each day to satiate their hunger.

Status of India after 61 Years of Independence

India is going to complete 61 years of Independence on 15^th August, 2008. Now, one more year is going to get added when we can proudly call ourselves a free nation. But, are we free in real terms? Does it make sense to celebrate this day with great pomp and show when we are still living under the clutches of poverty, corruption, injustice, inequality and most importantly, illiteracy? At least, I don't think so.

Inequality in different forms is still the face of free India. It mainly exists on the basis of gender and caste. Let us take the case of inequality on the basis of gender. Although a lot has been done for the upliftment of women and more and more women are attaining equality with their male counterparts, yet there are many women who get suppressed by their family and society on matters like pursuing higher studies or choosing a life partner or having a say in family planning or wearing a dress of her choice. Another aspect of such kind of inequality is the preference for male child, still prevalent in many parts of our country largely evident by the rampant female infanticide. Even today, when I let people know that we are only two daughters of our parents, they give an astonished look as if my parents are living an unhappy life without a son. People are also facing discrimination on the basis of caste. Let me just remind you all of an incident took place last year. An ex-army personnel belonging to a lower caste was beaten to death by his own villagers when he tried to dig a well on his land for farming. Now, what kind of achievement of India does it show after so many years of independence?

If inequality is an evil we still need to fight strongly, poverty is another major issue still holding our country in the league of third world countries. In fact, poverty has resulted into another kind of inequality between rich and poor. On one hand, you find those affluent people who can spend one lakh rupee just on a single dinner with their friends and family in a five or seven star hotel, while on the other hand, you find people living on streets with no proper clothing, food and other basic necessities.

Poverty has also resulted into a major social evil and that is child labor. In my locality, there is a slum area where majority of children are the bread earners for their family without any time to attend government schools. Their financial condition does not allow them to attend a full session in the school. If they at all are attending classes, it is only for satiating their hunger with mid day meals. But, this problem has got another dimension. There is a class of people who have literally no interest in making their children educated and look at them only as an additional source of income. So, isn't there a need to take a strong initiative by the government to make these people let their children attend school? Only constructing school buildings is not enough, I think.

It is not only poverty that is spelling a curse on common people, but also corruption. The common man of our free nation still needs to bow his head to corruption, which is rampantly found in our administrative machinery. If I ask you, how many times you had to pay some kind of bribe to get your work done, I am sure you would have forgotten the number as it has become close to countless.

There are many other issues that show our susceptibility to get succumbed to pressures at individual level as well as national level. So, shall we celebrate this day? Of course, but in a way that promises a great future for every Indian in coming years. On this day, we all should take a vow to join hands and cooperate with our government to get our nation free of all evils so that we get a reason to celebrate this day in true sense.

Raksha Bandhan - A Festival of Bonds

Come August and I gear up for one of the most revered festivals of the Indian Calendar. Yes this is the festival of bonds that I am talking - 'Raksha Bandhan' or more popularly Rakhi. I specially look forward to this festival as my brothers visit me on this day, no matter in which part of the country they are. where they are stationed It is on Rakhi that we revive those vows which we had taken ever since we were born.

For the ones who are not tête-à-tête with the festival, Rakhi captures the essence of the relationship between a brother and sister. Raksha means 'to protect', and Bandhan means a 'bond', therefore Rakhi is a bond of protection. Like every sister, I tie a band or an amulet around my brother's wrist as a protecting charm and pray for his wellbeing. My brother in turn vows to protect me from all sorts of evils and perils of the world. The festival is celebrated on the "Shravan Sud Poornima" every year, according to the Hindu calendar. An inetegral part of my rakhi celebrations are the gifts that my brothers lovingly shower upon me. The mere thought of the box of chocolates or the new dress that might be in store for me still brings a glitter to my eyes.

This festival has special meaning for me and my entire family as it very fondly reminds us of my grandmother. As children, I use to hear the mesmerizing legend behind Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan. Since time immemorial this festival has been attached to the ritual of protecting your loved ones from the evils of the world. The tradition actually dates back to the Mahabharata and the Hindu Mythological Godhead 'Indra.'

Rakhi is fun time as it also serves the purpose of a refreshing family get-together. The entire house basks with the presence of relatives from all corners of the country. Be it my paternal aunt or my maternal uncles, it is fun to have all of them under one roof.

Now, with Rakhi just round the corner, my mind is full of joy and I am waiting for all the action to happen. It’s not just me, I am sure that all sisters are waiting for it too.

Amarnath Land Controversy - Was This Move Required?

The controversy in the state of Jammu & Kashmir on the allocation of 100 acres of the land to the Amarnath Shrine board has brought forth the pent-up sentiments of the Muslim residents in the area. This move on the part of the Government has large repercussions on the already volatile political scenario in Jammu and Kashmir. This thoughtless move was a clear attempt to lure the Hindu residents' votes in the area, but it has resulted in uprooting the entire normalcy in the state. Ever since this announcement was made, it was evident that the Muslim residents in the state would raise their voice against it. However, an even stronger impact on this has been from the Separatist forces, who have taken this platform to draw the pro-India populace to their side.

As a result of all this political flutter, the PDP had also gone on to pressurize the Government to withdraw the land order, so as to satiate the feelings of the Muslim voters in the state. In fact, the PDP had even threatened to withdraw its support from the coalition government if this was not implemented. As a result, the Congress government in the state succumbed to the pressure and has taken back their move.

But all these developments raise a pertinent question in our minds that was this step really required? In the volatile states of Jammu and Kashmir, where the public feeling has always been bent towards Pakistan, such an inconsiderate move only ignites the fire that has always been given air by the separatist forces. The peace and tranquil atmosphere was predominant in the state from the past few years and everyone was hoping that things would be normalized again. But, with this move, things have again been pushed to the same politically corroded state.

Amarnath Yatra - Holy place of India

India is land of age old spiritualism. Unlike other religions Hinduism, the main stay of India does not recognize a single prophet and idolizes innumerable gods and goddesses. Evidently, the country also has numerous pilgrimages scattered throughout, from north to south. One such pilgrimage that holds enormous significance for Hindus is the Amarnath Yatra. I have been fortunate enough to take this yatra last year. It was such a memorable journey that I want to share my experience with you. This Yatra or journey is taken up by devotees during ‘shravana’ or the monsoon season. So, I along with my friends started our pilgrimage to Amarnath on 15th of July as Darshan at the Holy Cave is generally open from early July (Ashad Purnima) to early August (Sharvan Purnima).

For yatra to Baba Amarnath Holy Cave, we have to trek a height of about 14,500 ft and the journey was full of joy and thrills. The environment was divine and we were feeling as we are walking through the heaven on earth. It is said that the devotees attain ‘Moksha’ or freedom from rebirth by reaching to this cave of Lord Shiva- the most important God Head of Hindu mythology and even we were thinking it to be true. Pilgrims gather from all around the world to offer their prayers to the ‘Shivlinga’ residing in the cave. Surrounded by beautiful valleys and mountains, we felt like walking in the Kailasha hills which is said to be the abode of lord Shiva. The enchanting of mantras and the religious slogans like “Bam Bam Bhole”, “Jai Baba Amaranth”, “Jai Baba Barfani” and others made us feel the presence of lord Shiva everywhere around me. It was such an experience that would hardly vanish with time. I feel the journey to the Amarnath cave is such that pilgrims can rediscover Mother Nature and her love for human beings.

Legend has it that Shiva recounted to his wife Parvati, the secret of creation in a cave in Amarnath. Unknown to them, a pair of mating doves heard this conversation and having learned the secret were reborn again and again and they made the cave their eternal abode. Many pilgrims report seeing the doves-pair, when they trek the arduous route to pay obeisance before the ice-lingam (the phallic symbol of Shiva), but I was not that fortunate to see them.

The Amarnath Yatra is conducted once in year by the Jammu and Kashmir Government. The climatic conditions are extremely uncertain. Rain or snowfall may take place at any time or place during the Yatra. It is to be particularly noted that abrupt changes in temperature might occur. Sunny weather may turn into rain / snow fall in a short span of time. The temperature also may fall up to -5 degree Celsius. Uncertain climatic conditions often make the journey unpleasant and difficult for the pilgrims and you should take proper care and make adequate arrangement before taking up Amarnath Yatra. Such is the faith and dedication, that all pilgrims brave the adverse conditions and reach the abode of their God. But, one thing that really hurt me was the garbage being spread by the pilgrims which is causing great environmental hazard to this beautiful abode of God. I think persons should behave little responsibly and should not indulge in such things. Then, only we would be able to save the utmost beauty of nature coupled with divinity.

Rath Yatra - The Orrissan festivals

India is a land of festivals. Every part of this country has a different festival to celebrate. Each of them has a separate background and a special significance of their own. Amongst the seem-to-be-countless such religious occasions, the Rath Yatra at Puri is extremely well known. Devotees from all over the country flock to this region of Orissa to have a mere glimpse of their favorite God.

Better known as Jagannath Rath Yatra or 'the chariot journey of Lord Jagannatha', the festival is observed in the month of Ashadha (June-July). The historical-religious event commemorates the annual visit of Lord Jagannath to his birthplace Gundicha Mandir (temple). A conglomeration of millions of people can be seen at the Jagannath temple at Puri during this chariot festival, which is celebrated for eight consecutive days.

The festival commences with several rituals and offerings to Lord Jagannatha. Then the king of Puri or any descendant of the royal dynasty brings the idols of their respective beautifully decked chariots lined up before the temple. He sweeps the chariots' platforms with a gold-handled broom and sprinkles scented water. It is only the King of Puri and the King of Nepal who are allowed to touch the idols as they belong to the Chandravanshi dynasty.

Now, the Images of Lord Jagannath - Lord of the Universe, his sister Subhadra and brother Balbhadra are taken out in a procession in three magnanimous chariots. The main chariot is 14 meters high and 10 meters square with 16 wheels. It is said that one can attain salvation with a single view of the Gods in their chariots. However, in the olden days, the die-hard devotees used to throw themselves under the wheels of the raths with the believe to free their soul from the cycle of birth-and re-birth.

The chariots of the Gods are drawn by the devotees to the Gundicha Mandir amidst devotional songs and prayers. After a week's stay here, on the tenth day, the 'Ashadha Sukla Dasami', the deities start their return journey. The return of the Lords is called 'Bahuda Yatra' or 'Phera Rath Yatra'. The journey of the Lord's chariot to and from its sanctum-sanctorum is believed to purge and purify the city.

To seek detailed information on Jagannath Rath Yatra, you can log on to www.festivals-culture.blogspot.com

Valentine’s Day

"Within you, I lose myself.
Without you, I find myself wanting to be lost again."

Celebrated on February 14 every year, Valentine’s Day is celebrated as the festival of love. Lovers cherish this day to express their feelings to their dearly-loved ones along with flowers, gifts, cards and chocolates. The day for lovers is celebrated all over the world including Europe, Asia, Africa and America. The exchange of chocolates and flowers is traditional on Valentine's Day in America. Flowers, cards and gifts businesses make brisk trade on the occasion.

People in some countries celebrate this day differently. In some North American elementary schools, students give a Valentine card or a small gift to everyone in the class. The greeting cards exchanged between students mention what they appreciate about each other. In Slovenia, a proverb says that "St Valentine brings the keys of roots," so on February 14, plants and flowers start to grow.

This day has been celebrated in Europe since long. There is literary record conveying that the day was celebrated by people in some countries of the continent. The day was associated with romantic love in the circle of Geoffrey Chaucer in High Middle Ages, when the tradition of courtly love flourished. The day was closely associated with the mutual exchange of love notes in the form of "Valentines". Valentine's Day and romance has found mention in Chaucer's Parliament of Foules. This day is also mentioned by Ophelia in Hamlet: "Tomorrow is Saint Valentine's Day."

On this day, it is believed that people earlier offered their loved ones handwritten notes expressing their feelings for them. And since 19th century, handwritten notes have given way to printed greeting cards. Since the mid-19th century, greeting card-makers all over the world have a field day on this special day. In the second half of the 20th century, the practice of exchanging cards was extended to all manner of gifts in the US, usually from a man to a woman. Such gifts typically include roses and chocolates. In the 1980s, the diamond industry started to promote the day as an occasion for presenting jewelry as a gift to loved ones.

Now on Valentine's Day, people send greeting cards widely. US Greeting Card Association estimates that about one billion cards are sent each year worldwide, making the day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year behind Christmas. The association estimates that women buy approximately 85 per cent of the Valentine Cards.

Republic Day

India celebrates January 26th every year as the Republic Day with zeal and pride all across the nation. Hoisting of the tri-colour and colorful parades at all administrative units such as the capital cities and district headquarters mark the celebration on this day. The major ceremonies are held in New Delhi and the state capitals. On this day in 1950, the India’s constitution came into force and it became a sovereign, democratic and republic state.

In the country’s capital New Delhi, main celebrations are organized in the form of a majestic parade showcasing the country's military might and cultural diversity. The parade covers an eight-km route, starting from the Rashtrapati Bhavan through the picturesque Rajpath down to India Gate before winding up at the historic Red Fort.

The parade consists of mechanised, mounted and marching contingents of the Army, Air Force, Navy, Paramilitary forces and Police. After the march past, models of lethal fighter jets, missiles and battle tanks are displayed. Then the cultural extravaganza consisting of floats are presented by various States. The cultural exhibits depict scenes of activities of people in different States and the music and songs of that particular State accompany each display. Each display brings out the diversity and richness of the Indian culture and the whole show lends a festive air to the occasion.

The events of the day begin with the Prime Minister laying a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate in memory of the martyrs and soldiers who laid down their lives for the country. He then drives up to the central enclosure and awaits the arrival of the President and the Chief Guest of the occasion who is generally a Head of another country.

On his arrival, the President meets the dignitaries present there and unfurls the national flag. After this, the national anthem is played with a 21-gun salute to the national flag. Then, in a brief investiture ceremony, the President presents India's top gallantry awards, the Param Veer Chakra, the Veer Chakra and the Maha Veer Chakra to outstanding soldiers from the defence services.

After that, four helicopters fly past the parade area showering rose petals on the audience. Each chopper carries a flag - the first being the National flag and the other three, the flags of the Army, the Navy, and the Indian Air Force. The march past begins immediately after the fly past.

Children also take part in the celebrations a big way in their respective schools all over the country. Three days after the Republic Day parade, a moving ceremony known as "Beating Retreat" is held at the Vijay Chowk in New Delhi. This ceremony marks the formal end of the Republic Day celebrations.