The gifts of 2009 are strengthening my will every minute but are also bringing heightened sensitivity. After finishing the reading of ‘A Certain Ambiguity’ by Gaurav Suri & Hartosh Singh Bal, I didn’t know how to swallow the lump in my throat for a long time.
The book is a mathematical novel lucidly questioning mathematical truths based on axioms (which is equal to calling unquestionable faith in spiritual terms). It is not a commercial novel so interesting to go deep in one go but you cannot ignore completing it as well. It is a good inspiring book for non-mathematicians to get introduced to the deeper concepts of Cantor’s Continuum Problem, Euclidian Geometry, Non-Euclidian Geometry etc on a surface level.
I was pained to know that many mathematicians including Euclid had burnt their lives to prove the Euclid’s fifth postulate. For more than 2000 years, this postulate was a challenge to geometers across the globe who had centered their lives on it but in vain. I wish to document here some of the extracts of published journals that touched my core being….
Girolamo Saccheri (1729) – …..I have spent hour after hour, night after night seeking the contradiction. Even in sleep I have dreamt about finding the refutation. My health has suffered, my loved ones have suffered, even my theological studies have been neglected…. Because it is still imperfect, I will not allow publications of this work until I die….
Baruch Spinoza (1656) – Today I was excommunicated. I was excommunicated for speaking the truth. It seems the truth was too stark for those who sat in judgment over me……. Instead of being persuaded by my common-sense deductions, they have accused me of blasphemy and thrown me out of their society….
Letter from Farkas Bolyai to his son Janos (1820) – I beg you, son, write poetry or plays, teach music or build homes, even grow apples or oranges if you like. In heaven’s name, do anything except try to prove the fifth postulate…… For God’s sake, I beseech you, give it up. Fear it no less than sensual passions because it, too, may take all your time, deprive you of your health, peace of mind, and happiness in life.
Nikolay Ivanovich Lobachevsky (1855) – I am blind and sick now and I know I am dying. My dearest eldest son has already died, I am in debt, my marriage has failed, and my career is over. But these are minor irritations compared to my greatest regret: the fact is that I have made the greatest mathematical discovery in two thousand years and have received no recognition for it….. But no one has understood the importance of this discovery. For over three decades, I have tried to get people to read this work, I have translated into French, German, and recently again to French, but it has not mattered. Nobody cares…..
Georg Cantor (1884) – I am depressed and troubled….. The quest for a solution now has a vice-like grip over me; it is impossible for me to think about anything or anyone else. I have not been out of the house for weeks and have not spoken to another human for days….
It is not the outline of the novel that touched me more but the lives of these mathematicians. There were many who had sacrificed their lives in search of space-shape connectivity. And we all know that mathematicians have to prove every certainty logically. Once again I came to realise that it is always lonely for those whose passions are truly sublime and esoteric. When there is none to share your passion, the pain is more felt in the heart.
After finishing the book, I didn't know how to dissipate the choking sensation in my throat, for my sensitivity had heightened to the extent of feeling the helpless agonies of the mathematicians in my being.
So, standing in the kitchen, my eyes searched for those lost souls in the sky through the window. Yes, I was searching for those few rare souls who were caught in mathematical ambiguities and lived their entire lives with a single goal beyond animal passions and selfish calculations but failed to prove…..
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Friday, July 24, 2009
Silence to silence
Rarely do I sit for long in front of the computer these days but if at all I do, either it is to watch a movie or write or read something. My two-way communication with the outside world is drastically reduced.
The dancing of trees in the cool breeze, the red and yellow roses that blossom in the balcony, touch and go rains, exquisite conversations of birds all keep me in rapture. In fact, I was so taken away by the birds’ non-stop chattering on the solar eclipse day (July 22) that I wanted to learn their language. I could understand how Yanni would have derived inspiration for his ‘Nightingale’. No wonder, the great artist had made me enjoy the music though I am zero in musical skills. Listen to it if you have not heard so far.
There is no silence at all in the air because of these birds; yet silence is felt easily.
***
Watched BOLT. Hats off to the creators of this animation movie. The dog is so cute, naïve and loveable. I could not control my laughter when Bolt is nailed to ground realities and tries to learn unwillingly from Mittens ‘how to behave like a normal dog’.
Whether he is playing with the rubber carrot or begging for food under the able guidance of Mittens or enjoying simple joys of life like popping out of the window with his tongue out while travelling, Bolt is simply superb. After all, fake love and fake people are something that we all abhor and do not wish to be associated with. Bolt is no exception. Thank God, Penny proves to be a real person of real love.
This is one movie I may watch again and again. :)
***
I am reading ‘A Certain Ambiguity’ these days. Infinite doors are opening up in understanding the concept of infinity. Better… I should be more careful when I use the word ‘infinity’ henceforth. Once again, I realise why my late father was so addicted to Mathematics till his last breath.
I could not stop admiring the creative and interesting presentation of the difficult concepts of Mathematics.
That reminds me... though it is just 5 minutes away from my house, I am yet to make a visit to Crossword. I need at least a minimum of 3 hours to quietly laze around the bookshelves and also to watch the interesting personalities of all ages walk in. :D At present, I don’t have that much time but surely will do before I leave for Bahrain.
***
If I have had a daughter, I would have considered naming her as ‘Sanghamitra’. It is such a beautiful name. I used to feel a lot of grace and divinity in it. I am drawn to that name ever since I’ve heard of it in my childhood. To rewind a little history, she was the daughter of Emperor Ashoka who became a Buddhist monk and went to Sri Lanka along with her brother (Mahindra) to spread the teachings of Buddha and adopt female nuns.
When I was going through the train timetable a few days back, I was happy to see the name, though I am not travelling by Sanghamitra Express. :)
After so many years, now I could vaguely understand why I like the name 'Sangamitra'. It could be because
* though being a daughter of great emperor, she opted to become a nun and sacrificed her luxuries for a noble cause
* my love for Buddha
I feel stirred when I recite these powerful lines along with birds' loud whispers …..
Buddham Sharanam Gacchami
Dharmam Sharanam Gacchami
Sangam Sharanam Gacchami
Silence is easily felt in the air.
***
The dancing of trees in the cool breeze, the red and yellow roses that blossom in the balcony, touch and go rains, exquisite conversations of birds all keep me in rapture. In fact, I was so taken away by the birds’ non-stop chattering on the solar eclipse day (July 22) that I wanted to learn their language. I could understand how Yanni would have derived inspiration for his ‘Nightingale’. No wonder, the great artist had made me enjoy the music though I am zero in musical skills. Listen to it if you have not heard so far.
There is no silence at all in the air because of these birds; yet silence is felt easily.
***
Watched BOLT. Hats off to the creators of this animation movie. The dog is so cute, naïve and loveable. I could not control my laughter when Bolt is nailed to ground realities and tries to learn unwillingly from Mittens ‘how to behave like a normal dog’.
Whether he is playing with the rubber carrot or begging for food under the able guidance of Mittens or enjoying simple joys of life like popping out of the window with his tongue out while travelling, Bolt is simply superb. After all, fake love and fake people are something that we all abhor and do not wish to be associated with. Bolt is no exception. Thank God, Penny proves to be a real person of real love.
This is one movie I may watch again and again. :)
***
I am reading ‘A Certain Ambiguity’ these days. Infinite doors are opening up in understanding the concept of infinity. Better… I should be more careful when I use the word ‘infinity’ henceforth. Once again, I realise why my late father was so addicted to Mathematics till his last breath.
I could not stop admiring the creative and interesting presentation of the difficult concepts of Mathematics.
That reminds me... though it is just 5 minutes away from my house, I am yet to make a visit to Crossword. I need at least a minimum of 3 hours to quietly laze around the bookshelves and also to watch the interesting personalities of all ages walk in. :D At present, I don’t have that much time but surely will do before I leave for Bahrain.
***
If I have had a daughter, I would have considered naming her as ‘Sanghamitra’. It is such a beautiful name. I used to feel a lot of grace and divinity in it. I am drawn to that name ever since I’ve heard of it in my childhood. To rewind a little history, she was the daughter of Emperor Ashoka who became a Buddhist monk and went to Sri Lanka along with her brother (Mahindra) to spread the teachings of Buddha and adopt female nuns.
When I was going through the train timetable a few days back, I was happy to see the name, though I am not travelling by Sanghamitra Express. :)
After so many years, now I could vaguely understand why I like the name 'Sangamitra'. It could be because
* though being a daughter of great emperor, she opted to become a nun and sacrificed her luxuries for a noble cause
* my love for Buddha
I feel stirred when I recite these powerful lines along with birds' loud whispers …..
Buddham Sharanam Gacchami
Dharmam Sharanam Gacchami
Sangam Sharanam Gacchami
Silence is easily felt in the air.
***
Monday, July 20, 2009
Touch of India
The central pipe of the umbrella refused to remain intact in its folded form. Yesterday evening, my brother and I decided to take it to task along with other works and hence were trying to locate a man who repairs umbrellas. Upon enquiry, we reached the place. Wowie…. I was dazed to see the open air professional repair shop under a tree with the background of license number plate and a big portrait of a god mending chappals.
The expert man checked the umbrella and told my brother that the pipe needed to be changed. My brother agreed too for a labour cost of Rs.35/-. Immediately, the man gave Rs.100/- to someone to buy pipes since he was running short of them. And he got 4 pipes and some change in return in a few minutes. Upon arrival of the pipes, the professional started working on our umbrella. In a minute, he turned our umbrella into a featherless bird and started working on it quickly fitting the pipe, springs, strings, rods etc one by one.
In the meantime, a clean and freshly bathed woman of middle age (must be his wife) came with boxes of food, sat on a stool nearby and started stitching the edges of an umbrella silently.
There were regular stream of visitors for umbrella repair and also to make calls on the four local telephones that were kept in front of him. His hands were working deftly raising his head only occasionally between umbrellas and telephones and also to answer to enquiries about bus stops in between. I was absolutely fascinated by his professional approach and multi-tasking capabilities.
Yes, India really rocks…..... This spirit of India which we can see in every nook and corner so casually is what I am thrilled about and proud of.
I wish some day we would find at least a week to stay in a rural village of Tamil Nadu during Pongal and enjoy the festival in its natural ambience, homely treatment and local delicacies (of course it must strictly be lacto-vegetarian food for all meals throughout the week). Not to mention actively involving in their non-stop candid talks and long walks along the river/lake side.
But we need a host on the first hand with our requirements fulfilled mentioned above. :D
***
Talking of India and her talented children, I was deeply moved by a performance of one Sunil in “India’s Got Talent” show being aired in Colors between 9 & 10 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. You may ask why he deserves this applause in this space when there are so many talented artistes from small villages, towns & cities who have moved on to the next level (about the judges, some other time I shall write if I feel so).
This young (barely educated) man became deaf and dumb by accident in his childhood. He has no connection to sounds at all in his life. But he dons the make-up of a woman and does Lavni as dancing is his passion, breath and breadwinner. And he dances and emotes without hearing the background music or beat with great perfection and timing.
How does he do? He has a very dedicated guru who is teaching him steps with 1, 2, 3, 4 counting. The teacher sends the student at the right beat on stage and with just 1, 2, 3, 4 counting, Sunil performs a full length dance sequence for one full song with right emotions on face. From his performance, you cannot believe that he is deaf and dumb nor is he a man. He is a true talent indeed and I rate him the highest score!
The teacher identified the passion of the poor student towards dancing and with great difficulty has taught him voluntarily sparing his time and efforts. No words can explain the dedication of the teacher and the ever fixed smile of the student. I value this ‘success’ & ‘achievement’ more than corporate balance sheets or any show business successes.
Without the teacher, dancing would have remained just a dream for the student. Without this student, the teacher would not have tried something so challenging in his life. This is called strength, determination and will power.
My salutations to both the teacher and the taught for their perfect understanding, respect, faith, patience and love towards each other.
***
You can imagine the inflow and outflow of people near a local station in the evening hours. Unmindful of who is watching and who is not, I ate fresh hot ‘vada pav’ yesterday evening standing on the road. I must say that both the enjoyer (me) and the enjoyed (vada pav) were very faithful to each other, as I relished the roadside delicacy after one year. :D
And the enjoyment that I got for just Rs.8/- ....... awwww… heavenly. I don’t have any other word to describe more. :)
***
The expert man checked the umbrella and told my brother that the pipe needed to be changed. My brother agreed too for a labour cost of Rs.35/-. Immediately, the man gave Rs.100/- to someone to buy pipes since he was running short of them. And he got 4 pipes and some change in return in a few minutes. Upon arrival of the pipes, the professional started working on our umbrella. In a minute, he turned our umbrella into a featherless bird and started working on it quickly fitting the pipe, springs, strings, rods etc one by one.
In the meantime, a clean and freshly bathed woman of middle age (must be his wife) came with boxes of food, sat on a stool nearby and started stitching the edges of an umbrella silently.
There were regular stream of visitors for umbrella repair and also to make calls on the four local telephones that were kept in front of him. His hands were working deftly raising his head only occasionally between umbrellas and telephones and also to answer to enquiries about bus stops in between. I was absolutely fascinated by his professional approach and multi-tasking capabilities.
Yes, India really rocks…..... This spirit of India which we can see in every nook and corner so casually is what I am thrilled about and proud of.
I wish some day we would find at least a week to stay in a rural village of Tamil Nadu during Pongal and enjoy the festival in its natural ambience, homely treatment and local delicacies (of course it must strictly be lacto-vegetarian food for all meals throughout the week). Not to mention actively involving in their non-stop candid talks and long walks along the river/lake side.
But we need a host on the first hand with our requirements fulfilled mentioned above. :D
***
Talking of India and her talented children, I was deeply moved by a performance of one Sunil in “India’s Got Talent” show being aired in Colors between 9 & 10 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. You may ask why he deserves this applause in this space when there are so many talented artistes from small villages, towns & cities who have moved on to the next level (about the judges, some other time I shall write if I feel so).
This young (barely educated) man became deaf and dumb by accident in his childhood. He has no connection to sounds at all in his life. But he dons the make-up of a woman and does Lavni as dancing is his passion, breath and breadwinner. And he dances and emotes without hearing the background music or beat with great perfection and timing.
How does he do? He has a very dedicated guru who is teaching him steps with 1, 2, 3, 4 counting. The teacher sends the student at the right beat on stage and with just 1, 2, 3, 4 counting, Sunil performs a full length dance sequence for one full song with right emotions on face. From his performance, you cannot believe that he is deaf and dumb nor is he a man. He is a true talent indeed and I rate him the highest score!
The teacher identified the passion of the poor student towards dancing and with great difficulty has taught him voluntarily sparing his time and efforts. No words can explain the dedication of the teacher and the ever fixed smile of the student. I value this ‘success’ & ‘achievement’ more than corporate balance sheets or any show business successes.
Without the teacher, dancing would have remained just a dream for the student. Without this student, the teacher would not have tried something so challenging in his life. This is called strength, determination and will power.
My salutations to both the teacher and the taught for their perfect understanding, respect, faith, patience and love towards each other.
***
You can imagine the inflow and outflow of people near a local station in the evening hours. Unmindful of who is watching and who is not, I ate fresh hot ‘vada pav’ yesterday evening standing on the road. I must say that both the enjoyer (me) and the enjoyed (vada pav) were very faithful to each other, as I relished the roadside delicacy after one year. :D
And the enjoyment that I got for just Rs.8/- ....... awwww… heavenly. I don’t have any other word to describe more. :)
***
Friday, July 17, 2009
Mumbai Munch - Round 4
I had to go out urgently on 14th July to pick up my ill brother from the Doc’s clinic. Mumbai had recorded heavy rainfall on that day in fact. It was raining cats & dogs outside. Though the destination was near, it was not reachable by walk. Moreover, I was skeptical about my recently healed right foot. Any slip anywhere in one of the dents on the roads would take me back to the dreadful situation and I do not wish to have it for one more time, especially now (when I have come down for a specific purpose).
But even to catch an auto, I have to walk for 4-5 mins to come out of the society campus. My umbrella and I seemed pathetic in front of the nature’s fury. At that time, an auto came near our block to drop off somebody. As I ran (conveniently forgetting my foot in excitement) to hold the man, he said that he was going in the opposite direction but he would drop me outside the compound. He also said, “Sambalke didi… Aaraam se aayiye…” :)
Not only did he drop me out, muttering to himself that it would be difficult to catch an auto in that rain, he fixed another auto for me and ensured that I got into it. When I tried to pay, he said with a smile that he didn’t do for money. He also said that he would have dropped me himself if he had not had another commitment elsewhere. I was really, really touched by his gesture.
How nice our world would be if each one is so genuine towards each other! Unfortunately, sometimes even known people behave like strangers at moments of distress.
As for the auto man, all I wish to say to him is, ‘Your Allah is all merciful.’
***
Watched a movie ‘Because of Winn Dixie’ a few days back. It is a clean movie with no glam girls or steamy scenes. The young 10 year old girl AnnaSophie looked angelic. I could not take my eyes off her. She exuded beauty and charm in all frames. The film as a whole is so cute and the dog (Winn Dixie) is absolutely adorable.
Those who want to know what is unconditional love, please do watch Winn Dixie’s expressions. I shall watch this movie with Atul once I reach Bahrain.
Next in pipeline to watch is ‘Bolt’. Hehe…
***
Some books you simply assume that you’ve read long back. One such is ‘To kill a mockingbird’. It is a book every adult nay every lawyer must read. The character of Atticus is very difficult to see in this world, especially among the present breed of lawyers.
When I told Atul over chat that I am reading this book, he asked me, “How many times will you read this?”
I said, “This is the first time I am reading,” for which he replied, “No, you have read it before.”
Did I? I don’t remember though. :D
But even to catch an auto, I have to walk for 4-5 mins to come out of the society campus. My umbrella and I seemed pathetic in front of the nature’s fury. At that time, an auto came near our block to drop off somebody. As I ran (conveniently forgetting my foot in excitement) to hold the man, he said that he was going in the opposite direction but he would drop me outside the compound. He also said, “Sambalke didi… Aaraam se aayiye…” :)
Not only did he drop me out, muttering to himself that it would be difficult to catch an auto in that rain, he fixed another auto for me and ensured that I got into it. When I tried to pay, he said with a smile that he didn’t do for money. He also said that he would have dropped me himself if he had not had another commitment elsewhere. I was really, really touched by his gesture.
How nice our world would be if each one is so genuine towards each other! Unfortunately, sometimes even known people behave like strangers at moments of distress.
As for the auto man, all I wish to say to him is, ‘Your Allah is all merciful.’
***
Watched a movie ‘Because of Winn Dixie’ a few days back. It is a clean movie with no glam girls or steamy scenes. The young 10 year old girl AnnaSophie looked angelic. I could not take my eyes off her. She exuded beauty and charm in all frames. The film as a whole is so cute and the dog (Winn Dixie) is absolutely adorable.
Those who want to know what is unconditional love, please do watch Winn Dixie’s expressions. I shall watch this movie with Atul once I reach Bahrain.
Next in pipeline to watch is ‘Bolt’. Hehe…
***
Some books you simply assume that you’ve read long back. One such is ‘To kill a mockingbird’. It is a book every adult nay every lawyer must read. The character of Atticus is very difficult to see in this world, especially among the present breed of lawyers.
When I told Atul over chat that I am reading this book, he asked me, “How many times will you read this?”
I said, “This is the first time I am reading,” for which he replied, “No, you have read it before.”
Did I? I don’t remember though. :D
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Mumbai Munch - Round 3
Yesterday night after dinner, my brother, Mother and I were reliving some of the memories for a long time. For a moment, I felt so young under the umbrella of Mother. :) Didn’t want to grow up but the reality was that I forgot to come online for a chat with my husband at that time. Poor guy! By the time (i.e. 11:30 IST) I had grown up again (hehe…), he was not online. I had to call him up from my (Mother’s) mobile to say that I am going to bed as I feel very tired and sleepy. Well, after my night prayers, I became fresh and didn’t know what to do at midnight. :D
Though many untrue and true souls walk along the journey, I realized that there can be no permanent companion from birth to death giving permanent happiness. Life is very strange indeed. Many times we lose sight of the purpose.
God! Did I become too philosophical?
Probably must have dozed off unable to withstand my own philosophical thought process. However, I was woken up at 5:45 am today morning by an sms from my friend.
:D
***
Finished reading the book ‘Plato and a Platypus Walk into a Bar…’ The book is mainly on Western philosophy though Eastern is also touched here and there. The authors Thomas Cathcart & Daniel Klein managed to lucidly present the boring & difficult philosophical concepts through jokes. It is a creative attempt indeed.
But did I enjoy reading this book? I can’t say clearly because I couldn’t enjoy some of the jokes as they were vulgar in any standard. Did I grasp the philosophical concepts clearly? Well, I did at the time of reading but can’t recollect now. It could be due to my poor intelligence only. However I was laughing throughout the ‘Acknowledgements’.
Here’s one of the conversations that I enjoyed which explained 'Absolute Relativity'...
Dimitri : So, Tasso, you seem to be one of those guys who thinks there is no absolute truth, that all truth is relative.
Tasso : Right.
Dimitri : Are you sure of that?
Tasso : Absolutely.
Ok... Now a joke on 'Relativity of Worldviews'
A multinational corporation advertises for a secretary. A golden retriever applies for the job, passes the typing test, and is granted an interview. The human-resources manager asks, "Do you speak any foreign languages?"
And the golden retriever says, "Meow."
I felt that “Sophie’s World” is my type of book (though the ending of SW is awkward & disappointing) as the philosophical concepts are presented more clearly.
The students of these authors are really fortunate. I can understand how entertaining and enlivening their classes would be.
***
Now got to watch another dog movie during my spare time. Shall write on this later. :)
Though many untrue and true souls walk along the journey, I realized that there can be no permanent companion from birth to death giving permanent happiness. Life is very strange indeed. Many times we lose sight of the purpose.
God! Did I become too philosophical?
Probably must have dozed off unable to withstand my own philosophical thought process. However, I was woken up at 5:45 am today morning by an sms from my friend.
:D
***
Finished reading the book ‘Plato and a Platypus Walk into a Bar…’ The book is mainly on Western philosophy though Eastern is also touched here and there. The authors Thomas Cathcart & Daniel Klein managed to lucidly present the boring & difficult philosophical concepts through jokes. It is a creative attempt indeed.
But did I enjoy reading this book? I can’t say clearly because I couldn’t enjoy some of the jokes as they were vulgar in any standard. Did I grasp the philosophical concepts clearly? Well, I did at the time of reading but can’t recollect now. It could be due to my poor intelligence only. However I was laughing throughout the ‘Acknowledgements’.
Here’s one of the conversations that I enjoyed which explained 'Absolute Relativity'...
Dimitri : So, Tasso, you seem to be one of those guys who thinks there is no absolute truth, that all truth is relative.
Tasso : Right.
Dimitri : Are you sure of that?
Tasso : Absolutely.
Ok... Now a joke on 'Relativity of Worldviews'
A multinational corporation advertises for a secretary. A golden retriever applies for the job, passes the typing test, and is granted an interview. The human-resources manager asks, "Do you speak any foreign languages?"
And the golden retriever says, "Meow."
I felt that “Sophie’s World” is my type of book (though the ending of SW is awkward & disappointing) as the philosophical concepts are presented more clearly.
The students of these authors are really fortunate. I can understand how entertaining and enlivening their classes would be.
***
Now got to watch another dog movie during my spare time. Shall write on this later. :)
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
English mania
Talking about English in my last blog reminded me of my morning visit to Atul’s school on the day of leaving Bahrain i.e. 26th June. In spite of the mind spinning work that I had at home, I wanted to surprise him. Moreover, there was a PTM from 8:45 to 11:30 am on that day.
It was a Friday and hence a holiday for him. Since he has taken up Kiran More coaching classes for 3 weeks, he was up and ready at 5 am itself for his morning coaching. At the end of training for the day at around 8:00 am, there was an unexpected assembly of the participating students to give a few tips and also to distribute T-Shirts. It was just an informal gathering in the auditorium of the school. I could see both the students and teachers were sweating profusely because of their intense physical practice in the summer heat. Under the circumstances, the PT Master in-charge was acting as MC on an emergency basis. He was talking in English which was grammatically incorrect many times.
What irritated me was, the elite group sitting at the backside were commenting and laughing about every sentence that he spoke and poor organizing skills of the school. I felt like asking a few questions…
1) If your ward is studying in an elite school and if you are so concerned about English, why do you have to send your child to this mediocre school for cricket coaching?
2) Why do you have to grumble so much for spending extra half an hour for the sake of your own child? I know how much time you spend for parties and club activities.
3) Are you aware that English proficiency is not a must for a PT Master? He should be able to convey the key message to the children in simple words and the children should grasp without fail which both the parties are doing without any problems. How stupid you can be to assume that English is the end of the world!
4) Do you know that many great personalities of sports, arts and science do not speak in English even though they know the language. Be aware that it is only the perfection in one’s field of interest that really matters which they know and the world too knows. That's why they command respect.
5) By the way, are you a literary giant whom the world adores? Even they don't do such foolish things, for they know that humility is what makes a man complete.
6) By talking ill of teachers in front of your children, do you know that you are dangerously stealing the respect your child has to give to his teachers? Is this the culture that you want to pass on to your child?
7) Can’t you sit quietly and listen patiently to what others have to say? At least learn not to criticize on such unimportant matters if you have to talk in between. It badly reflects only on your character.
I happened to be a witness to this shameful act. I feel really sad.
It was a Friday and hence a holiday for him. Since he has taken up Kiran More coaching classes for 3 weeks, he was up and ready at 5 am itself for his morning coaching. At the end of training for the day at around 8:00 am, there was an unexpected assembly of the participating students to give a few tips and also to distribute T-Shirts. It was just an informal gathering in the auditorium of the school. I could see both the students and teachers were sweating profusely because of their intense physical practice in the summer heat. Under the circumstances, the PT Master in-charge was acting as MC on an emergency basis. He was talking in English which was grammatically incorrect many times.
What irritated me was, the elite group sitting at the backside were commenting and laughing about every sentence that he spoke and poor organizing skills of the school. I felt like asking a few questions…
1) If your ward is studying in an elite school and if you are so concerned about English, why do you have to send your child to this mediocre school for cricket coaching?
2) Why do you have to grumble so much for spending extra half an hour for the sake of your own child? I know how much time you spend for parties and club activities.
3) Are you aware that English proficiency is not a must for a PT Master? He should be able to convey the key message to the children in simple words and the children should grasp without fail which both the parties are doing without any problems. How stupid you can be to assume that English is the end of the world!
4) Do you know that many great personalities of sports, arts and science do not speak in English even though they know the language. Be aware that it is only the perfection in one’s field of interest that really matters which they know and the world too knows. That's why they command respect.
5) By the way, are you a literary giant whom the world adores? Even they don't do such foolish things, for they know that humility is what makes a man complete.
6) By talking ill of teachers in front of your children, do you know that you are dangerously stealing the respect your child has to give to his teachers? Is this the culture that you want to pass on to your child?
7) Can’t you sit quietly and listen patiently to what others have to say? At least learn not to criticize on such unimportant matters if you have to talk in between. It badly reflects only on your character.
I happened to be a witness to this shameful act. I feel really sad.
Mumbai Munch - Round 2
Last Saturday (04/07/2009), it was heavy downpour over here. I was just watching, watching and watching from the kitchen window as I was busy throughout the day. Having settled in a country where I hardly see any rains, such yearly visits to Mumbai during monsoon time is a real treat for me though I’ve heard Mumbaikars hating this season. Today the weather is gloomy as it is drizzling since morning. I could hear the birds having their morning conversations too. This reminds me of the birds from the nearby trees playing rhythmic beats to Swamiji’s morning speeches during our stay in Siddhbhari ashram this March. Ah! Life is indeed beautiful!
***
To refer a word, I picked up our old English Oxford Dictionary which is not in so good a condition. While I was mentally chiding my brother for not replacing with the latest one, I was in near tears to see my late father’s beautiful running handwriting throughout the pages. For example, against the word ‘peripatetic’, he had written ‘itinerant’ for a quick reference.
Even in the midst of severe pains, I’ve seen him reading or solving crossword or adding new words from Readers’ Digest, or create such thesaurus shortcuts. He had never sat idle. He had never grumbled, moaned or got irritated for the pains that he was going through because he had mastered the art of channeling his energies. Any subject could ignite his interest, be it Philosophy, Psychology, Mathematics, English, History, Geography, Science, Religion, Sports or anything for that matter. He was a keen and humble learner till he breathed his last.
Yesterday I learnt a new word thanks to his eye catching handwriting – ‘verbigerate’. He is teaching still even after cutting off his relationship with us 12 years back.
Out of sudden impulse, I opened the first page to get shocked. You know what…. my name is imprinted there as ‘S. Padmaja’ in capital letters in my own handwriting. This was indeed my old dictionary which he was using during his last years (which I had forgotten all these years).
I quietly returned the treasure back to its original place.
***
Two days back, I was trying to fix BiPap for Mother after her breakfast so that she can have her required quota of BiPap hours per day. In spite of the limitations that she has got, she joked, “See… just like smokers and drunkards, I have also become addicted to this. My physical body craves for this.”
I replied to her with a smile, “This is your life support and not a destructive habit. Your physical body craves for it because your lungs need it. Do not think otherwise.”
She nodded innocently.
Ah! She is a great woman of willpower and mental strength. I marvel at her combination of innocence and intelligence.
***
I got to write on the book that I am reading but only later. :)
***
To refer a word, I picked up our old English Oxford Dictionary which is not in so good a condition. While I was mentally chiding my brother for not replacing with the latest one, I was in near tears to see my late father’s beautiful running handwriting throughout the pages. For example, against the word ‘peripatetic’, he had written ‘itinerant’ for a quick reference.
Even in the midst of severe pains, I’ve seen him reading or solving crossword or adding new words from Readers’ Digest, or create such thesaurus shortcuts. He had never sat idle. He had never grumbled, moaned or got irritated for the pains that he was going through because he had mastered the art of channeling his energies. Any subject could ignite his interest, be it Philosophy, Psychology, Mathematics, English, History, Geography, Science, Religion, Sports or anything for that matter. He was a keen and humble learner till he breathed his last.
Yesterday I learnt a new word thanks to his eye catching handwriting – ‘verbigerate’. He is teaching still even after cutting off his relationship with us 12 years back.
Out of sudden impulse, I opened the first page to get shocked. You know what…. my name is imprinted there as ‘S. Padmaja’ in capital letters in my own handwriting. This was indeed my old dictionary which he was using during his last years (which I had forgotten all these years).
I quietly returned the treasure back to its original place.
***
Two days back, I was trying to fix BiPap for Mother after her breakfast so that she can have her required quota of BiPap hours per day. In spite of the limitations that she has got, she joked, “See… just like smokers and drunkards, I have also become addicted to this. My physical body craves for this.”
I replied to her with a smile, “This is your life support and not a destructive habit. Your physical body craves for it because your lungs need it. Do not think otherwise.”
She nodded innocently.
Ah! She is a great woman of willpower and mental strength. I marvel at her combination of innocence and intelligence.
***
I got to write on the book that I am reading but only later. :)
Monday, July 06, 2009
Mumbai munch
Whenever I come down to Mumbai, it is an unwritten rule that I start using Mother’s mobile number without even informing her. So, enjoying the rains from the balcony, I was speaking to my friend last week who had fondly remembered me to make that long distance call.
Upon completion of the call, my brother casually asked me, “Who’s that?”
Mother replied with a smile, “Don’t you know that she could befriend anyone even in the first meet?”
I could not stop exclaiming loudly if this is a compliment or something different. We three had a good laugh after that.
On a serious note, I could honestly say that I have only a few handful of dear friends who are with me for a long time wherever they are.
***
From the commentary box, Alan Wilkins rightly called the two players ‘gladiators’. Probably he would have been inspired to say so after seeing the ‘Gladiator’ Russell Crowe sitting on the stands. True to his words, yesterday’s Wimbledon Final Men’s match was one such that neither Roger Federer nor Andy Roddick was willing to give away the coveted championship so easily. The spectators were blessed to witness one of the graceful fights on the court yesterday. Roger appeared contented and grinning from ear to ear as he has become a tennis icon after yesterday’s win in front of legendary Rod Laver, Pete Sampras, Bjorn Borg. He was the same man who broke down emotionally after clinching this year’s French Open title. And it was he who cried after losing 2009 Australian Open title to Nadal.
You have broken a dream record yesterday. No tears this time, Federer?
Well, well…. emotions are part and parcel of every human being and that’s what differentiates a human from a stone.
While Roger Federer was seen outwardly happy, Andy Roddick tried very hard to control his emotions and behaved so well. My heart is always concerned about the emotions of losers than feeling one with the winners. Why am I like this?
***
Some 4-5 days back, I watched a very, very sweet film ‘Air Buddies’. Those kids… hehe….. golden retriever pups were absolutely adorable. You could imagine how much I would have enjoyed the movie, I being a dog lover. If you have kids, ask them to watch. They would love it. If you have childlike heart, you too can watch this movie. I wish to watch again with Atul and Balaji once I return to Bahrain. :)
Your face will be fixed with a smile when you see the puppy ‘Buddha’ chanting ‘Aum’ to collect positive energy during one of its difficult journeys to rescue its gifted parents. :)
***
More later.
Upon completion of the call, my brother casually asked me, “Who’s that?”
Mother replied with a smile, “Don’t you know that she could befriend anyone even in the first meet?”
I could not stop exclaiming loudly if this is a compliment or something different. We three had a good laugh after that.
On a serious note, I could honestly say that I have only a few handful of dear friends who are with me for a long time wherever they are.
***
From the commentary box, Alan Wilkins rightly called the two players ‘gladiators’. Probably he would have been inspired to say so after seeing the ‘Gladiator’ Russell Crowe sitting on the stands. True to his words, yesterday’s Wimbledon Final Men’s match was one such that neither Roger Federer nor Andy Roddick was willing to give away the coveted championship so easily. The spectators were blessed to witness one of the graceful fights on the court yesterday. Roger appeared contented and grinning from ear to ear as he has become a tennis icon after yesterday’s win in front of legendary Rod Laver, Pete Sampras, Bjorn Borg. He was the same man who broke down emotionally after clinching this year’s French Open title. And it was he who cried after losing 2009 Australian Open title to Nadal.
You have broken a dream record yesterday. No tears this time, Federer?
Well, well…. emotions are part and parcel of every human being and that’s what differentiates a human from a stone.
While Roger Federer was seen outwardly happy, Andy Roddick tried very hard to control his emotions and behaved so well. My heart is always concerned about the emotions of losers than feeling one with the winners. Why am I like this?
***
Some 4-5 days back, I watched a very, very sweet film ‘Air Buddies’. Those kids… hehe….. golden retriever pups were absolutely adorable. You could imagine how much I would have enjoyed the movie, I being a dog lover. If you have kids, ask them to watch. They would love it. If you have childlike heart, you too can watch this movie. I wish to watch again with Atul and Balaji once I return to Bahrain. :)
Your face will be fixed with a smile when you see the puppy ‘Buddha’ chanting ‘Aum’ to collect positive energy during one of its difficult journeys to rescue its gifted parents. :)
***
More later.
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