About the Blog

This is my diary....what I make sense of, around me. You'll find short prose on contemporary topics that interest me. What can you expect - Best adjectives? …. hmm occasionally, tossed around flowery verbs ?…. Nope, haiku-like super-brevity? … I try to. Thanks for dropping by & hope to see you again

February 25, 2024

Ram Temple Ayodhya and Power Politics: A Historical Analysis in the Style of Romila Thapar

The Ayodhya Tapestry: Weaving Together Faith, History, and Politics


In the intricate tapestry of Indian politics, where the warp of history intertwines with the weft of contemporary governance, the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya emerges as a vivid thread, highlighting the confluence of faith, identity, and power politics. As we delve into this narrative, it's impossible not to reflect upon the perspectives of eminent historian Romila Thapar, whose scholarly work, although increasingly marginalized in public discourse, offers a nuanced understanding of India's past and its echoes in the present.




Romila Thapar’s Lens: Deciphering the Past, Understanding the Present


Thapar, a historian who has navigated the complex waters of Indian history with an admirable blend of scholarly rigor and a critical eye, has often been at odds with the mainstream narrative, especially concerning her interpretation of historical events like the attack on the Somnath temple by Mahmud of Ghazni in the 11th century. Her contention, grounded in Persian writings and local chronicles of the time, alongside debates in the British Parliament, suggests that such invasions were less about religious fervor and more a manifestation of political power struggles. This perspective seems contentious which I particularly don't ascribe to, invites us to look beyond the surface of historical events and understand the multifaceted motivations that drive human actions.

The Architectural Manifesto: Ram Temple as a Symbol of Political Ascendancy


This lens of analyzing history not just as a sequence of events but as a reflection of power dynamics is particularly relevant when we consider the recent inauguration of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The timing of the temple's inauguration, coinciding with the peak of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's popularity towards the end of his second term, is hardly serendipitous. It is, as Thapar might argue, a declaration of the political importance of an emergent powerful leader, woven into the fabric of India's ongoing narrative.

Modi, ruling over a continent-sized country, has skillfully made Varanasi his electoral fortress, thus anchoring his political saga in a city of immense religious significance to Hindus and just 200 kms away from his bastion of Varanasi. The emotive appeal to the reconstruction of the Ram Temple, framed within the narrative of a resurgent Bharat emerging from the shadows of the Babri Masjid movement, is a masterstroke of blending religious sentiment with nationalistic fervor. It's a testament to how temples, and by extension religious symbols, are not just places of worship but potent instruments of political authority and identity.

A Thousand-Year Vision: Modi’s Narrative of National Rebirth


The Prime Minister's vision of scripting the next thousand-year story of India, with the Ram Temple as a cornerstone, is not merely an architectural endeavor but a symbolic reaffirmation of his political stature and the ideological underpinnings of his governance. It reflects a conscious effort to mold the collective memory of the nation, to anchor it in a narrative that champions cultural resurgence as a vehicle for political consolidation.

In this context, Thapar's analytical framework invites us to question and explore the layers beneath the surface of what might seem like purely religious or cultural milestones. It encourages a deeper understanding of how historical narratives are constructed and employed in the service of contemporary political agendas. While one may not align with all of Thapar's viewpoints, her approach to history - as a dynamic interplay of power, politics, and identity - provides a valuable lens through which to view the unfolding of events like the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.

History in the Making: The Role of Religious Symbols in Power Dynamics


In the grand theatre of Indian politics, where the past is perpetually interlaced with the present, the Ram Temple stands not just as a symbol of religious devotion but as a monument to the enduring legacy of power politics. It's a reminder that in the quest for political dominance, the manipulation of historical narratives and religious sentiments remains a potent tool, wielded with strategic precision by those in power. As we navigate this complex landscape, the insights of historians like Romila Thapar offer us a contrarian view, indicating us towards a more nuanced understanding of the forces that shape our world

February 3, 2024

Echoes of Innovation: Remembering Mr. Bijon Nag's Visionary Legacy

Summer of '96: First Encounters with a Visionary

In the warm embrace of the summer of 1996, I had the serendipitous pleasure of crossing paths with Mr. Bijon Nag, a figure whose presence was as commanding as his contributions were pioneering. Nestled within the verdant suburbs of Khar in Mumbai, we both found ourselves residing in the company guest house—a choice that spoke volumes about Mr. Nag's character. Despite the allure of luxury that a five-star hotel could offer, he opted for the modest accommodations of our guest house. It wasn't just a place to stay; it became a melting pot of interactions, a hub where employees from diverse backgrounds converged during their transit visits. And there I was, an extended resident for nearly half a year, which gifted me the opportunity to engage with Mr. Nag more frequently than most.

Mr.Bijon Nag IFB Chairman tribute



Our encounters often unfolded in the cozy living room, following a hearty Bengali dinner with other colleagues that always included his beloved 'Macher Jhol'. In these moments, enveloped by the comfort of good food and the company, Mr. Nag would share stories in his deep, sonorous voice -stories that lingered in the air long after the night had deepened.

Mr. Nag was not just a storyteller; he was a visionary who brought precision engineering to India. His sojourn in Germany in the early seventies was not just a visit but a voyage of discovery that led to the introduction of fine blanking technologies back home. His ventures didn't stop there; he foresaw a future where convenience and luxury meshed seamlessly in Indian households. This vision materialized in the form of India's first fully automatic front-loading washing machines, produced in collaboration with Bosch. This premium innovation leapfrogged over the existing semi-automatic models, capturing the market's imagination and earning its top spot, much to the delight of us in the marketing department. The word of mouth alone catapulted our product to unparalleled success.

Revolutionizing Indian Kitchens: The Microwave Odyssey


But Mr. Nag's ambition was boundless. He aimed to capture the 'share of the kitchen wallet,' an endeavor that saw the introduction of microwave ovens into the Indian market - a market still nascent and ripe for revolution. Tasked with introducing this groundbreaking technology to the bustling, upwardly mobile crowds of Mumbai, I found myself at the forefront of change. The task was daunting; we had to shift perceptions, proving that the microwave was more than just a reheating gadget - it was a culinary marvel capable of cooking full-fledged meals.

Imagine the scene - me, a novice in the art of cookery, thrust into the limelight, conducting live demonstrations from the storied halls of Akbarallys in the south to the bustling outlets of Vijay Sales in the North. The journey was dotted with memorable interactions, including a chance meeting with the iconic film actress Helen in Bandra, as I endeavored to debunk myths and showcase the microwave's versatility.

Beyond Cooking: Educating and Inspiring a New Culinary Era


The challenge of finding a cookery expert in Mumbai turned into an unexpected opportunity for me. Drawing upon my experience working with Mrs. Ujwala Mandgi in Bangalore, where we had prepared a cookbook as part of our pre-market launch activities, I found myself donning the chef's hat. There I was, in the guest house kitchen, demonstrating the wonders of microwave cooking - from fluffy upma to sumptuous gobi aloo sabzi and even cakes - each dish a testament to the appliance's potential.

Our marketing efforts were not just about selling a product; they were about educating, engaging, and inspiring our customers to explore new culinary possibilities. The company's foresight extended beyond microwaves; soon, clothes dryers were introduced, leading me to the pleasant hills of Coonoor for field tests with the Uthup (famous singer) family, amidst the chilly embrace of the Nilgiri hills. Dishwashers followed, marking yet another innovative leap in our journey.

Behind all these groundbreaking ventures was Mr. Bijon Nag - a visionary whose legacy transcends the products he introduced. His passion, foresight, and relentless pursuit of innovation have left an indelible mark on both the industry and the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. Rest in peace, Mr. Nag, your vision continues to inspire and resonate within the halls of innovation and beyond.

November 20, 2023

Kapil Dev: The Forgotten Hero of Indian Cricket in World Cup 23

In the world of cricket, legends are born, records are shattered, and memories are etched in the hearts of fans. But what happens when the glitter and glamour of showbiz and politics overshadow the true heroes of the game? Well, it seems like we got a taste of just that during the World Cup 23' as Kapil Dev, the man who led India to its first-ever World Cup victory in 1983, was conspicuously absent from the VIP box. Instead, it was a star-studded affair, with film stars showing off their antics and politicians occupying prime seats.


As the World Cup unfolded, it felt like a Bollywood awards show meets a political rally, with the VIP box resembling a chaotic circus. The likes of Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, and Ranveer Singh (the reel hero who represented him on screen) were seen waving, blowing kisses, and even attempting a few signature dance moves. Meanwhile, politicians jostled for the spotlight and basked in the occassional limelight projected on screen boards. The whole spectacle made us wonder if we were at a cricket match or a Bollywood extravaganza!

Amidst all the glitz, lights, and glamour, it was easy to forget the real heroes of Indian cricket – Kapil Dev and Mohinder Amarnath, the captain and vice-captain of the 1983 World Cup-winning team. They were the Jai and Veeru of Indian cricket, the dynamic duo who etched their names in history, but sadly, they seemed to be forgotten in the midst of all the hullabaloo.





The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) has certainly embraced change when it comes to cricket stadiums. In their quest to make the game more entertaining and engaging for the masses, they've introduced cheerleaders, light shows, dance performances, and even DJs spinning tracks during breaks. While these changes have added a new layer of entertainment to the cricketing experience, one can't help but wonder if they've overshadowed the substantive part of the game.

Cricket is a sport that has always been known for its rich traditions and history. The sound of leather hitting willow, the tension in the air during a close run chase, and the roar of the crowd when a wicket falls – these are the moments that make cricket special. While cheerleaders and light shows are fun, they should complement, not overshadow, the core essence of the game.

The 'Jai Ho' chants and the dazzling display ironically reminded me of the 'Jay' who is running the show in BCCI now, not the Jai's of yore. Cricket is not just about the here and now, it's about respecting the past, celebrating the present, and nurturing the future. Kapil Dev and his teammates wrote a glorious chapter in Indian cricket history in 1983, and their legacy should always be acknowledged and honored.

So, as we continue to embrace change and modernize cricket stadiums, let's not forget the legends who laid the foundation for the game we love. Let's celebrate the Kapil-Mohinder era while enjoying the Bollywood-style entertainment. After all, in the world of cricket, it's the perfect blend of tradition and innovation that truly makes the sport a timeless classic.

November 17, 2023

Nana Patekar's Viral Video: The Price of Stardom and the Selfie Hunters' Circus

Greetings, fellow internet wanderers, and welcome back to our hilarious corner of the web! Today, we're diving headfirst into the whirlwind of chaos that surrounded the recent "Nana Patekar viral video" incident. You know, the one where our beloved star, Nana Patekar, had to defend himself against an unexpected intruder in the form of an over-enthusiastic fan. Strap in, folks, because this is one wild rollercoaster ride through the world of celebrity fandom!


It's no secret that our Indian celebrities have to pay a hefty price for their stardom – the constant nagging of fans and the relentless pursuit of the paparazzi. But this time, the price Nana Patekar had to pay came with a viral twist! The video was enough to send social media into a frenzy, with everyone and their aunties chiming in. Many slammed him for his "inappropriate behavior," but let's not jump the gun here, folks.


No one seemed to notice the little leech-on-a-celeb, aka the kid who decided to latch onto Nana Patekar without so much as a by-your-leave. Just because a star is in a public place, apparently, it's enough for selfie hunters to throw proper decorum and politeness out of the window and pounce on them. And of course, the star is supposed to oblige because, well, they are our entertainment providers, right?


When Nana Patekar finally slapped the boy, it was as if a bomb went off on social media. But guess what? Nobody bothered to question the boy's inappropriate behavior. I mean, come on, people! Who wants a random child hanging onto them like a backpack without consent? That's not a bonding experience; it's a restraining order waiting to happen!


Nana's subsequent statement did little to help his cause. But let's be honest, when you're bombarded by the paparazzi, and fans are climbing all over you like you're a human jungle gym, I doubt even Mother Teresa would maintain her composure!


The Indian public often raises their stars to dizzying heights, only to turn around and bay for their blood, holding them to the highest standards of accountability. They seem to forget that these stars are "one of us," common people who happen to be good at pretending to be someone else on screen. They can be just themselves and get annoyed by the silly things around – like random kids clinging onto them like they're a lifebuoy in the middle of a storm.


Social media, especially X (you know the one), was flooded with multiple tweets that all seemed to emphasize one thing: everyone wants a slice of the tamasha because it's free entertainment. It's like we've resurrected the Roman Coliseum, and the star is the gladiator while everyone else in the stands is baying for some celebrity blood. "Are you not entertained?!" they seem to shout while refreshing their Twitter feeds.



Nana patekar viral video image




In conclusion, folks, let's cut our stars some slack. They may be famous, but they're still human beings who deserve their personal space and sanity. The next time you spot a celebrity in the wild, remember, they're not there for your amusement; they're just trying to buy some groceries or enjoy a meal in peace. And if you see a kid latching onto them, maybe consider helping the poor star out instead of snapping a viral video! After all, we're all in this circus of life together, aren't we?

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