Cultural Treasure

One of the unique features of India is its rich and vast cultural heritage. India has a treasure trove of various culture phenomena that comprises arts, traditions, religious confluence, centuries old literature, customs, visual and performing arts and so on. Thus it becomes the responsibility and duty of each one of us to understand the cultural diversity of our country and help preserve it.

With a view to acquaint our readers with the importance of conserving our rich culture and to know some of the components of our culture better, like the temple architecture, the richness of Sanskrit language, the relevance of Upanishads, Vedic values, ancient manuscripts, Vastu Shastra and more, One India One People has taken up ‘Culture’ as its theme in August, which happens to be the 14^th anniversary of One India One People Foundation. 

Tracing the cultural history of India and highlighting the importance of oral and wisdom traditions that form the bedrock of Indian culture, Dr. Gautam Chatterjee, an expert on Indological studies and Deputy Controller (Media) at Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, New Delhi, in the lead article talks of conserving our culture and observes that traditions, customs, beliefs, rituals, art, literature, architecture are all part of the rich Indian culture that has evolved, sustained and nurtured over a time by the people themselves, who have acted as its custodians.

Tushar Gandhi, social activist and the great grandson of Mahatma Gandhi and the Managing Trustee of Mahatma Gandhi Foundation, Mumbai, in his article on the foreign influence on Indian culture, opines that culture does not need protection and can withstand external influences, but it is up to us to accept what is worthwhile and discard what is not.

Emphasising the importance of Upanishads, B. M. N. Murthy, a prolific writer on Indian heritage and Vedic wisdom, says that the Upanishads, also called the Vedanta, embody the ancient Indian wisdom and the grand outpourings of the spiritual experiences of those unique sages and seers who saw the ‘Truth’ and thus gave us thoughts as no other philosophy of the world could give. But how many of us actually realise the importance of this great work, he asks.

 In the article on the relevance of the Sanskrit language, Mr. Murthy states that Sanskrit is not merely a language but it represents the totality of Hindu culture right from Kashmir to Kanyakumari. Unfortunately, the general perception that Sanskrit is complicated has restricted its utility to the recitation of Vedic mantras during religious ceremonies, he rues.

Our ancient manuscripts are a window to the enormous knowledge that our country has and gives an idea to the posterity about the amount of strain our forefathers took to pass on the light of knowledge. Prof. M. R. Veerabhadra Swamy, Professor & Chairman, DOS in Sanskrit, University of Mysore and the Director of the Oriental Research Institute, Mysore, highlights the importance of preserving our ancient manuscripts and guides us on how to preserve them.

N. Ramasharma, an expert on Vedanta, and who looks after the administrative affairs of Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam, Kancheepuram, Tamilnadu, talks about our Vedic heritage and gives us simple lessons on how to live a happy life.

Dr. Ishrat Alam, Associate Professor, Centre of Advanced Study in History, AMU, Aligarh and Member Secretary, Indian Council of Historical Research, New Delhi, writes about the invaluable contribution of some of the prominent dynasties in promoting art and architecture, especially temple architecture till the thirteenth century.

Vastu Sastra is the science of dwelling or architecture. The science owes its origin to the Vedas – the knowledge books of India – Rig, Yajur, Sama and Atharva. Vastu is said to relate to Atharvaveda, says Niranjan Babu Bangalore, well-known international consultant in Vastu, author and a member (as a Vastu specialist) of Sri Dharmastala Manjunatheshwara Dharmottanna Trust, (Dharmastala, India), which maintains and manages a large number of India's well-known temples and other theological institutions and gives us an account of the origin of Vastu and its relevance even today.

When you talk about culture, can the colourful festivals of India be far behind? Katie Dubey, travel writer, was lucky to visit Assam during the native festival of Bihu and she comes back mesmerised with the celebrations.

Mumbai continues to be vulnerable. Once again it has been targeted by terrorists. Today ordinary citizens ask if the US can prevent attacks on its homeland after 9/11, why can’t India do it? That is because we refuse to learn any lessons from the past experiences, says P. M. Kamath, former Professor of Politics, University of Mumbai; who has authored numerous research papers on terrorism points out how India refuses to learn from its past experiences.

 ‘Know India Better’ features Himachal Pradesh, a place steeped in myths, legends, fantasy and history. Travel writer Akul Tripathi visits the Dev Bhumi or the ‘Abode of the Gods’ to give us an account of the spectacular flora and fauna inside the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) and the popular hill station Manali, and its picturesque surroundings. 

In our ‘Face to Face’ section, eminent writer and theatre critic Shanta Gokhale speaks on culture and its various traits and trends. Interviewed by Anuradha Dhareshwar, Associate Editor, OIOP.

Great Indians:

The raw courage, personal example and supreme sacrifice of Major Padmapani Acharya MVC (1968-1999) encouraged his troops to quickly secure Knoll during the Kargil war. Like his mythical mentor Arjun of the Mahabharat, he fought bravely till his last breath. Contributed by Brig S. C. Sharma (retd.)

M. F. Husain (1915-2011) was a controversial figure alright, but his contribution to Indian art cannot be ignored. He played a major role in showcasing Indian art and artists on the international stage. Contributed by Prakash Bal Joshi, Mumbai based journalist and artist.

Solid academic achievements, scholarly expertise, objective analysis, credibility, integrity and above all, humility and values were what made Dr. Suresh Tendulkar (1939-2011) a cut above the rest. Contributed by Sunil S. Bhandare, consulting economist and former economic advisor, Tata Group.

Highlights of July 2011 Issue of One India One People

OIOP July 2011

Caring For Our Future

We often say that Children are Our Future. But is the society doing enough to ensure that our children have a happy and safe childhood? It is shocking to read media reports of children being abused and exploited at remand homes, orphanages; humiliated and punished in schools, abused at home; molested and raped by law enforcers; children growing up on streets without anyone to care or being forced to work to feed the family when they should be in school. All these cases of atrocities point out that not enough is being done for children`s care and welfare in our country. Although there are legislations to guard the rights of children, these need better implementation. A country which dreams of being a superpower cannot afford to neglect its children. It will have to address all pressing issues on a war footing for a better future of the children, as well as the country.

CJ George

In the lead article ‘Promises to Keep’, activist C. J. George says that despite a number of positive steps to ensure the rights of the child, we fall short of protecting these rights. He puts this issue before the government and the society and emphasizes the need to address this issue urgently.

Payal Shah Karwa

Arif Kapadia

In ‘Lost Childhood’, Payal Shah Karwa, an independent writer and entrepreneur writes that the recent stories of exploitation of children in remand homes and orphanages point to the larger issues of child abuse. Children are no longer safe even in the confines of their homes.  She urges the government and civil society to come together to put an end to this growing menace.

In ‘Children of a lesser God’ Arif Kapadia who works with NGO Saathi for the rights of children and youths living on the streets,  points out, that children land up on the streets because of various socio-economic reasons, and they languish there for life. This can be averted if there is strong political will and determination on the part of the government to look beyond electoral politics.   
Kailash Satyarthi, founder of Bachpan Bachao Andolan, founding President of Global Campaign for Education and Chairperson of Global March Against Child Labour writes that child labour endangers the child’s present and future. He adds that India has tremendous potential and possibilities to eradicate child labour only if a concerted and integrated approach is adopted backed by genuine political will.   

Kailash Satyarthi

 ‘In a case for juveniles’ advocate Maharukh Adenwalla, who closely work with the juvenile justice system opines that children who commit an offence require protection as their act is a result of their immaturity. The competent authorities under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2000 therefore have  a daunting task of rehabilitating these children to ensure that they enjoy the same opportunities as others, she notes.

Dr. Harish Shetty

Vividisha Chaitanya

                                                                         

Commenting on the race to produce child prodigies, eminent psychiatrist Dr. Harish Shetty,  says that curiosity and compassion create child prodigies, and not unmindful competition. He emphasises the role of parents, teachers and the society in igniting these qualities in children.

Vividisha Chaitanya, chief Editor, Balvihar magazine,  observes that children’s literature can be a major influence in inculcating right values in children and teaching them about our culture, so that they grow to be rooted and strong while facing the various ups and down in their life.  

Deepa Gahlot

                                                                                                                
Noted paediatrician Dr. R. K. Anand gives us tips on good parenting and shares his prescription for a healthy and happy family.

Dr. R. K. Anand

Eminent film and theatre critic Deepa Gahlot writes that when it comes to quality entertainment for children, the choices are few and far. But theatre for children in India, holds enough promise to nurture their creative talent. 

Children are now the little ‘big’ customers, where every marketing campaign is made with them as the target. It is a war between marketers and the family, where the former are using their resources to entice children and the latter is using its values to protect children. We hope the family wins, say Dr. Ritu Bhattacharya and Dr. Sangita Kohli.     

Film Maker , Writer, Thinker and Actor Amol Gupte

  Sriprakash Menon brings us face to face with film maker, writer, actor and thinker Amol Gupte, who shot to fame with the sensitive children`s film ‘Taare Zameen Par’ as its writer and creative director. His recent film ‘Stanley ka Dabba’ too received huge applause from the audience as well as critics..He speaks about his movies, children and society.

 Katie Dubey

 Know India Better  features the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve on the border of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, a nature lover’s paradise, with rich flora and fauna and vast grasslands.  The reserve is well worth a visit while it is still forested and one is able to feel a chill go up the spine as the tiger stealthily moves through the grass or when the Gaur, all 100 tons of him, stops grazing and looks you straight in the eye as you raise your camera as Katie Dubey experienced.

Great Indians:

Kakasaheb Gadgil

Kakasaheb Gadgil                      

The champion of progressive causes (1896-1966)

A great nationalist, an astute parliamentarian and  educationist   Narhar Vishnu Gadgil, affectionately called as Kakasaheb, was in the forefront of national liberation movement of India under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi. He was one of the prominent leaders engaged in rebuilding the nation after independence.

Lt General Sagat Singh PVSM

Lt General Sagat Singh PVSM

A soldier’s soldier (1919-2001)

Bold and aggresive, he exploited the opportunity at Chandpur and
forged a heli-bridge across River Meghna which led to an early victory.
He could say with Nelson "Wherever, there is anything to be done,
then Providence is sure to direct me there."

Fateh Singh Rathore   

Fateh Singh Rathore

The Tiger Man (1938-2011)

 Fateh Singh Rathore’s efforts to save the dwindling population of tigers in India are legendary. Bittu Sahgal pens an emotional note to his dear friend who influenced most of his attitudes to tigers.

The Political Whirlpool

With corruption, money laundering and scams involving politicians making headlines, almost everyday, Politics has become a dirty word, and people love to hate politicians. Undoubtedly, politics shorn of ethics is at the root of corruption, and there is a need for changing the old order. But this transformation cannot happen unless the people of India, especially the youth stop looking at politics with cynicism and participate in the electoral process to bring the necessary change. The June issue of One India One People on Politics, emphasizes the need for changing the political culture by resorting to ethical politics.

Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan, founder and President of Lok Satta Party

In the lead article, Dr. Jayaprakash Narayan, founder and President of Lok Satta Party, calls for a serious re-examination of our definition of politics and power, and evolution of a new political culture by conscious effort. But such a transformation of politics demands the eager and effective participation of the best and brightest in society, he says.

N.Vittal

Veteran journalist P. K. Ravindranath rues the decline of democracy, where the voice of the common man is stifled, as most parties jockey for power, compromise their principles, and abandon whatever little of commitment they have for ideology.

N. Vittal, former Central Vigilance Commissioner, emphatically says that a single Lokpal Bill cannot weed out corruption, unless we improve governance, bring in transparency and accountability into our system, and free organisations of governance from political influence to deliver service.

S. Balakrishnan, senior journalist and editor, Deshbhakti Weekly, Mumbai, says that criminalisation of politics cannot be checked through legislation alone, but by powerful mobilisation of public opinion against this dangerous phenomenon.    

Jashwant Mehta

Jashwant Mehta, convener of Forum for Better Democratic Alternative, and author of several books such as Quest for a better Democratic Alternative, advocates the Presidential form of government for better governance to end an era of hung parliaments, unstable governments and unprincipled coalitions among the political parties, who want to merely share the spoils of power.

Mukut Sah, President, Citizens for National Consensus, which has done considerable work in the field of electoral reforms, calls for few urgent electoral reforms necessary for good governance, such as tight control over election expenses, keeping tainted candidates out of the fray, the right to recall a member for poor performance, curbing the role of money to induce voters and barring rigging of elections.

Mukut Sah

Agatha Sangma, Minister of State for Rural Development, GOI, says that though it is not easy for women in politics, many have gone on to become larger than life figures, and their tales of courage and determination are today inspiring several more women to aspire to positions of power.  

Agatha Sangma

Senior journalist Abhay Mokashi, writes that voters do not seem to value the educational background, professional status and standing in society of independent candidates over candidates of political parties. As a result their number in the Parliament has been dwindling.

 Abhay Mokashi

Bharat Dogra

Bharat Dogra, OIOP columnist who writes on social concerns, notes that women sarpanchs are successfully contributing to the development and progress of their villages.  While illiteracy and their low educational levels sometimes pose problems, it has not deterred them from playing constructive role in nation building.

In an interview with One India One People, Dr. Manohar Joshi, Rajya Sabha member belonging to the Shiv Sena, and former Speaker and Chief Minister of Maharashtra (1995-99) candidly shares his thoughts on politics with senior journalist Abhay Mokashi.

Dr. Manohar Joshi

Dr. M. A. Haque

Know India Better (By Dr. M. A. Haque, Director-Scientifc (retd.) in the Ministry of Environment and Forests) features ‘The white tigers of Govindgarh’, in Madhya Pradesh, where the rare species of 'white tigers' were first spotted by the Maharaja of Rewa Martand Singh, on an hunting expedition. The historical Govindgarh palace and the scenic surroundings, today lie in total neglect. If the state takes initiative to restore the lost glory of Govindgarh, it can be a potential tourist destination and also a tribute to the white tigers.

Great Indians’ section features -

Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab (1899-1987), a journalist-author, an able administrator, a social reformer and a leading freedom fighter who associated himself with social-constructive works and made public-service and nation-building the goal of his life. 

Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab

 Major Ramaswamy Parameswaran PVC (1946-1987) - The only recipient of the highest gallantry award of Param Vir Chakra from Mumbai, Major Ramaswamy Parameswaran died at his post fighting militants in Sri Lanka. He was a true leader and soldier who led by personal example.

Major Ramaswamy Parameswaran PVC 

Lt. Puneet Nath Datt AC (1973-1997) - During a militant operation, Lt. Puneet Nath Datt came face to face with a militant and killed him but also succumbed to his injuries. The incident was typical but the zeal and valour of the 24-year-old hero was uncommon, who lived to his motto – Death Before Dishonour, for which he was awarded the Ashok Chakra, the highest peace time honour. 

To order a copy, call 022-2353 44 00 or email at oiop@vsnl.net or oiopsub@fouressindia.com

New OIOP Clubs

a) At St. Francis Institute of Management & Research, Borivali (W)

Mrs. Sucharita R. Hegde, Trustee and Managing Editor, OIOP, presents the OIOP Club Membership Certificate to Deputy Director Dr. Chandramouli

b)    S. P. R. J. Kanya Shala (Gujarati Medium), Ghatkopar (W)

Mrs. Hegde, Ms. Anuradha Dhareshwar, OIOP Associate Editor (far right) with teachers and students of the school. Principal Mrs. Nanda N. Thakkar (centre) is holding the OIOP Club Membership Certificate

There are two ‘Indias’ within the country - an observation that has been made often to highlight the dichotomy between the rich and poor. While we want the world to view us as emerging superpower, it is ironic that millions living live in stark poverty. On one hand we have tones of food being wasted due to lack of storage facilities and on the other there are millions who cannot afford one meal a day. The different topics on the theme ‘Food’ in the May issue of One India One People bring out this contrast. The issue also brings into focus the growing demand for convenience food and subsequent growth of the food industry in India. There are also topics that show the way to good health. In sum, there is plenty of food for thought.   

May 2011- Food For Thought

In the lead article ‘Corporatisation of India’s agriculture: A ticking time bomb’, Sachin Jain, development journalist and social researcher, warns us of large corporations that have taken control of every facet of agriculture, even consumer behaviour and consumption patterns. As a result, he says, farmers can no longer decide what they want to grow and it is becoming increasingly unclear what kind of protection the government policies will provide them.      

 Sachin Jain

    

Siddharth Shankar, 

In ‘Inflating prices, deflating stomachs’, well-known economist Siddharth Shankar, notes that food inflation is a serious cause for concern and is here to stay for a long time. But taking effective measures such as increasing production and productivity, and reducing wastage and consumption can contain inflation to a certain extent.

It is a shame that every fifth hungry person on this planet is an Indian. Bhaskar Goswami, agriculture and trade policy analyst, writes that the reason why people go hungry in India is not scarcity of food but an ineffective public distribution system. Adding to the problem is food inflation. Only an honest and effective PDS can prevent malnutrition and death due to hunger.

Bhaskar Goswami

Loveleen De

                                                          

Though convenience food has received flak from environmentalists and nutritionists it is being lapped up like never before. While it is important that the ultimate user is aware of the nutritional content of the food and makes a choice to have or reject it, Loveleen De, freelance writer, says it would do good for consumers to pause and think at what cost is this convenience.

Noted nutritionist, health activist and founder of THAC (The Health Awareness Centre, Mumbai) Dr. Vijaya Venkat emphasizes that eating fresh, wholesome, natural, organic food is the key to good health. She urges people to keep off fast foods, as they are full of chemicals, unhealthy and offer no real nourishment.

Dr. Vijaya Venkat

Piyush Mehta

    

Piyush Mehta, G. M., Corporate Communications, Morarka Foundation, highlights the many health benefits of Organic food, which is fast gaining popularity as it is free of toxic chemicals and adulteration, which ensures a healthy life.

Ummeayman Rangwala, nutritionist with Protein Foods & Nutrition Development Association of India (PFNDAI), Mumbai, says that the boom in the packaged food industry has been largely due to consumer demand for convenience food, change in lifestyle of the middle income group and the shift from need-based to indulgence-based consumption.

In Women go carting, Soma Mitra tells us about Project Sukanya, a unique retail venture started in Kolkata by a social entrepreneur, where goods are sold on roadside mobile kiosks called ‘bou carts’ that are run by women.   

In Face to Face, Disha Shetty has a tete-a-tete with young entrepreneur-farmer Ubei Husein from Mumbai, who is trying to get farmers and consumers closer with his unique venture ‘Hari-bhari tokri’.                                              

Dr. Sukant Khurana

In the general section, Austin, Texas based researcher Dr. Sukant Khurana and his junior collaborator Brooks Robinson, raise concern about binge drinking in India, but say “Prohibition will not end the party”. Rather than banning alcohol they advocate spreading information on alcohol abuse to make a difference.     

Breathtaking Ladakh

                                                    

Know India Better features breathtaking Ladakh. Quirky, feisty, impish, feral and ridiculously photogenic. Savage roads etched across a lunar emptiness; a soulless desert where rocks bleed colour. Brittle stone walls which in its lazy folds hide unending valleys; brilliant blue skies capering beyond the grasp of earth’s snow-clad fingers. Akul Tripathi rides to this difficult terrain across the mountains -- Ladakh and agrees that it is Worth Every Gasp!

 Akul Tripathi

                                                 

                                                         Great Indians profiles

Swami Keshwanand - an educationist, social-reformer and nationalist (1883-1972) 

Swami Keshwanand

Swami Keshwanand was a renowned social reformer and a leading freedom fighter of the Gandhian era of freedom movement, who along with making people conscious of the consequences of social evils, worked for mass awakening, rural upliftment and propagation of nationalism and national language.

Prof. N. G. Ranga - A great parliamentarian and peasant leader (1909-1995)

Prof. N. G. Ranga

           Prof. N. G. Ranga was one of those few prominent leaders of India who in the Gandhian era of Indian freedom movement (1917-47) and many decades after the independence, could well understand the basic problems of peasants of India. He was a real and top-ranking farmer leader of South India.   

Major Laishram Jyotin Singh AC- Courage unfathomed (1972-2010)    

Major Laishram Jyotin Singh AC

He could have easily saved himself but as an army man, he did not. Major Laishram Jyotin Singh, though unarmed, charged at the terrorist and was killed in the process. His brave act saved the lives of ten people.