US Elections 2020. Trumped by the Vote: A Comedic Recap

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, and everyone in between, gather 'round as we recount the grand spectacle that was the 2020 U.S. Presidential Election—a saga so steeped in drama that Shakespeare himself might have said, "Bit much, innit?"

At the center of this whirlwind of democracy was none other than the incumbent President, Donald J. Trump, the man who turned the Oval Office into a Twitter pulpit and diplomatic relations into episodes of reality TV. Trump, a maverick in a red tie, approached the election with the confidence of a man who's just found a coupon for a free haircut and knows exactly what he wants: "Just a little off the sides, please, but leave the top. It's perfect."

Finally Trump'ed up campaign comes to an end after giving some anxious moment to the republican camp. 

In the midst of a global pandemic, Trump's rallies were less about social distancing and more about social gathering. The term 'super-spreader' became synonymous with both the virus and misinformation, and masks were often treated like the dress code at an informal beach wedding—optional and largely ignored.

Then came the debates, a series of verbal jousts where Trump, armed with barbs and quips, faced off against Joe Biden, who often looked like he was wondering whether he'd left the stove on at home. The debates were less about policies and more about endurance, as viewers played a drinking game with the phrase "Will you shut up, man?" Spoiler alert: everyone lost that game.

The antics of Trump have etched themselves indelibly into my memory, living there rent-free. Consider the moment during his visit to Gujarat, India, at Modi's invitation, when he attempted to pronounce 'Vivekananda' - the revered Indian reformer and activist. His tongue tripped and tumbled over the name, transforming it into something that sounded suspiciously like "Weee Vik aa nan mundaaa."

Cutting to the chase, election night arrived with all the certainty of a groundhog's shadow. As the votes were tallied, Trump's lead began to wane, and the President did what any reasonable adult would do: he took to Twitter to declare victory prematurely and accuse the other side of stealing the election. It was like calling "shotgun" before your friend has even bought a car.

The days that followed were a blur of lawsuits, recounts, and tweets—so many tweets. Trump's legal team, led by the ever-composed Rudy Giuliani, held a press conference at Four Seasons Total Landscaping—because nothing says "I'm taking this seriously" like standing next to a sex shop and a crematorium.

As the legal battles waned and the Electoral College cast its votes, Trump's tenure as President was given an expiration date, but not before he pardoned a cornucopia of cronies and possibly contemplated pardoning himself—a move as unprecedented as it was on-brand.

In the end, the 2020 U.S. Election was a masterclass in political theater, with Trump playing the lead role in a performance that was part King Lear, part reality TV, but all-American. It was a time when satire became redundant because reality had beaten it to the punchline.

So, let's raise a glass to the 2020 election: the year politics became so bizarre, comedians had to check if they were accidentally reporting the news. And to Donald Trump, the man who left the White House with the same subtlety he governed—kicking, screaming, and tweeting into the wind.

From Russia with Love: Kindred Spirits United by India's Charm

As the world huddled in the quiet isolation brought on by COVID-19, a ray of camaraderie shone through the stillness, bridging the distance with a message from Ekaterina, a soul from the snow-laced expanses of Russia. Her words, infused with care, reached across the digital divide - a poignant testament to a shared affection for a land that, even amid global solitude, remained vivid in the hearts of those who adore it from afar.With nostalgia woven into every word, her message unfolded - a poignant tapestry of concern for the beloved nation she holds dear in the wake of the pandemic's surge.

Her sentiments are a reminder of the timeless allure India holds, reminiscent of a bygone era when Raj Kapoor, the eternal showman, twirled his way into the hearts of the Russian people with the cinematic treasure "Mera Naam Joker." How intriguingly fate intertwines our stories, blending the past with the present, art with affection.

Ekaterina's concern, as touching as the black and white memories of cinematic yesteryears, reflects the depth of affection that Indophiles across the world harbor for this land of vibrant diversity. Consider Iliya Padukova, the Ayurvedic doctor from the historic streets of St. Petersburg, whose devotion has led her and her fellow pilgrims to the serene hillock in Kerala, year after year for a dozen years - each visit a homage to the spiritual call of Swami Ayyappa.

And it's not just the pilgrimages that signify this bond but also the profound resonance of India's spiritual heritage in the hearts of many Russians. Bhakti Vijnana Goswami, an ambassador of the Russian Iskcon movement, spoke of a thriving community - fifty thousand Hare Krishna devotees - each a vibrant thread in the colorful mosaic of global unity

Such is the power of India's cultural embrace - it knows no bounds, transcending the physical, dancing over oceans, whispering through mountains, to touch lives far and wide. A myriad of Katias and Iliyas stand testament to this timeless bond, a dance of souls intertwined by love, respect, and shared humanity. As the world watches and waits for the tempest to pass, these heartwarming tales of cross-border camaraderie stand as beacons of hope, reminding us that even in times of trial, the human spirit prevails, boundless and eternal.

Kamal Nath MP Govt Falls

The Congress party came to power in Madhya Pradesh (MP) on the election plank

                                          

15 months back. Soon enough Shivraj Singh Chaohan had the last laugh with another 'Operation Kamal' after he weaned away 22 legislators rendering a ironic wedge in the 'name-sake' of the old congi fox.

Indian auto rickshaw. Epic rides and catchy messages

If you've ever set foot in the bustling streets of India, you've likely encountered the chariot of the common man: the mighty auto rickshaw. These three-wheeled wonders are the unsung heroes of Indian transportation, navigating the urban jungle with the grace of a ballet dancer and the stability of a toddler on a sugar rush.

An auto rickshaw ride is less a commute and more a roller coaster without the safety regulations. The rickety journey is a symphony of bumps, rattles, and honks, where every pothole is a drumbeat and every sudden brake a cymbal crash. It's a full-body workout, an impromptu game of Twister as you contort to avoid the loving embrace of fellow passengers or the occasional curious cow or goat peeking in.

 

Saw this fella hitching a ride yesterday. Funny way to say back off.

Now, let's talk about the captains of these vibrant vessels - the auto rickshaw drivers. They are the sultans of swerve, the wizards of the three-wheeled steed. Haggling over the fare is their favorite sport, and they play it with the zeal of an Olympic athlete. The quoted price is often a 'suggestion', subject to a mysterious algorithm that factors in your accent, the weather, time of the day and possibly the alignment of the planets.

But it's not just about the ride; it's about the razzle-dazzle. Auto rickshaws are decked out with more bling than a pop star's Christmas tree. From psychedelic seat covers to flashy tassels that swing with the rhythm of the road, these autos are a mobile discotheque. The rearview covers don't just reflect the world—they challenge it, adorned with stickers like one above

The dashboard is a shrine to every deity, celebrity, and talisman known to man, creating a protective bubble against the evil eye and traffic tickets. Fairy lights twinkle like stars around the driver, who sits enthroned amidst this splendor, a king in his court of chrome and vinyl.

And let's not forget the music. Each auto rickshaw is a rolling jukebox, blasting the latest Bollywood hits or sometimes a forgotten '90s local pop song, adding a soundtrack to the already sensory-overloading experience.

In the end, the Indian auto rickshaw is more than just a mode of transport; it's a carnival on wheels, a microcosm of India's chaos and color, a testament to the spirit of 'jugaad'—the uniquely Indian art of winging it with flair. So the next time you hop into one of these tri-wheeled rockets, remember: you're not just going places, you're part of a grand tradition of adventure, negotiation, and unexpected disco parties. Buckle up (figuratively, because seat belts are still a fantasy in this realm), and enjoy the ride!

Shaheen bagh protests a guided missile?

The name sound familiar to military watchers. The inimical enemy across the border displays its pathological hatred for India by naming its missiles on the invaders of past. So after a round of names like Babar, Ghaznavi, Ghouri etc it named a new class of missile by the name of 'Shaheen'. This missile is supposed to have more teeth, a longer range (which practically cover all of India including southern part of the country) and is touted as a nuclear-capable surface-to-surface ballistic missile. The enemy for a change was inspired by a species of Falcon found in the mountains of Pakistan. Nontheless Shaheen (the missile) brought many Indian cities under its destructive capability when it was test fired in the first half of 2019

Now lets come to a protest by the same name in the national capital that is grabbing news headlines for the past 3 weeks. It is supposed to be a spontaneous movement by some disgruntled women of a minority community (just 10 to 15 local women are claimed to have started this on the afternoon of 14 December 2019). However as things unfolded it seemed to be a well planned conspiracy at work to destabilize the Govt and its legitimate policies

The significance of the name Shaheen

The name 'Shaheen' is just not a type of bird of prey, Some would say Shaheen also means "God of all Falcons" or just "God" at times, it really depends on the use and connotation. On the other hand a similar sounding 'Shahin' is a Muslim Girl name and it is an Arabic originated name with multiple meanings

The word 'Shaheen' has historical significance too, Naseem Hijazi the Pakistani Islamic historian and novelist wrote a historical novel by the same name. It details the situation of the Muslims in Granada in 1492 when they were about to be expelled from Spain. The novel goes on to depict the causes of destruction of Muslim power in Granada
So this is one of the unique and popular names with impressive meaning. You can find Shahin name meaning in Urdu and English, as well as other languages.

Why Shaheen Bagh protests are strategic in nature?

There is a pecular religious and historical persecution overtones to the name of the park where the protests are held. That it was started and now led by a group of Muslim women gives credence. The flames ignited here spread to other muslim dominated areas of Delhi like Turkman Gate, Jaffarabad and Seelampur, Khureji, Kardam Puri, Old Mustafabad and Bhajanpura. Many of the women protesters are hijab and burqa wearing Muslim women homemakers

Their misguided ire is just not against the Citizenship amendment act (CAA) and National registry of Citizens (NRC) but also opposing the government's "anti-labour policies". They have also protested against JNU attack that occurred recently which is being projected as 'state sponsored violence'

Creative artworks, innovate slogans like "Hum kagaz nahin dikhayenge" (we won't show our papers) or famous Urdu Nazm 'Hum Dekhenge' created by students from JNU, Delhi University, Jamia Milia Islamia, Jadavpur University and Hyderabad Central University do the rounds here. Ironically the 'Us Vs Them' cannot be lost in translation here amidst the shero shayari and recall of Muhammed Iqbal.

For the casual observer the Shaheen Bagh, has turned rampantly communal and is now caught pushing dangerous secessionist agenda (second partition). People like Sharjeel Imam who is an activist and former JNU student and reporter is the symptom of this malaise

The Hindu reports “The peaceful flame of resistance has now spread to other communities in and beyond the national capital and across the country”. It further add 'As on Wednesday, January 22, at least 20 Shaheen Bagh-inspired sit-in protests have been reported in the country'

Whispers of Ancient India: Discovering the Enchanting Ramchandrapura Math and its Bovine Heritage

Journey into the Heart of Karnataka: Ramchandrapura Math in Focus

Imagine embarking on a journey to a place where the whispers of ancient India blend seamlessly with the serene beauty of nature. Welcome to the enchanting Ramchandrapura Math, tucked away in the Shimoga district, amidst the lush Western Ghats of Karnataka. This idyllic spot is enveloped by dense forests and cradled by the tranquil backwaters of the Linganamakki Dam, which gracefully arches over the Sharavati River. A stone's throw away from the quaint town of Hosanagara, or "new town," lies this sanctuary, a mere 6 kilometers journey into the heart of India’s natural wonder.

Ramchandrapura Math is not just a place of spiritual pursuit; it's a living testament to the preservation of India's vanishing bovine heritage. Here, amidst the verdant landscapes, lies a project of passion and preservation – the Goshala. This haven is home to 37 distinct breeds of Indian cattle, both milch and draught varieties, each one a vital thread in the rich tapestry of India's agricultural history. It stands as a beacon of hope against the backdrop of governmental mismanagement in cow breeding, as highlighted by the National Commission on Cattle. This private initiative breathes life into a tradition on the brink of extinction.

'Amruthadhara', the unique cattle shed at Ramchandrapura Math, is more than just a shelter. It's a mosaic of India's native cattle breeds, the largest of its kind in the nation, a modern-day Gokula reminiscent of ancient Indian lore. Its significance was globally recognized in April 2007, when it became the focal point of the World Cattle Conference, underscoring the importance of traditional cow rearing in India.

The Math itself is cradled in an awe-inspiring landscape, where the Sathashringa hills and the gentle embrace of the Sharavathy river create a setting of unparalleled beauty. This harmonious land, where wild animals once coexisted peacefully with cows and deer, captured the attention of Sri Shankaracharya, leading to the establishment of the Raghuothama Mutt. Here, the profound teachings of the Advaita philosophy echo through the hills.

Cultural Immersion: Exploring the World of Havyaka Brahmins

Our journey was further enriched by an intimate glimpse into the world of the Havyaka Brahmins, thanks to our friends Ganapati and Aparna Hegde from Dallas, US. This community, with its roots in ancient Kannada, traces its lineage back to the 32 Brahmins of the Kadamba king Mayursharma's era (345-360 A.D.). Renowned for their expertise in 'havana' or sacrificial rituals, their culture and traditions are a bridge to a bygone era. The havyaks speak a very old and traditional precursor of present day Kannada. Their descendancy is traced to 32 Brahmins brought to his Banavasi kingdom by Kadamba king Mayursharma (345-360 A.D. covered in previous blog). They are considered experts in performing 'havana' or oblations to deities and sacrifices. The name therefore 'Havik' or 'Havyak' means connected with 'havana' or sacrificial rituals

Our arrival at Ramchandrapura Math was greeted by the evening symphony of birds and the solemn chants of young monks, immersed in the daily recitation of sacred scriptures. The math resonated with the timeless wisdom of shlokas, creating a spiritual ambiance that's both tranquil and profound.

After a day of exploration, we retreated to our modest cottages, anticipating a dinner that promised simplicity yet richness in taste, aligned with the satvik principles of the Havyak Brahmins. The absence of onions and garlic only accentuated the natural flavors of the meal.

Goshala: A Sanctuary for India's Indigenous Cattle Breeds

The following day presented an opportunity to visit the Goshalas, an incredible sight directly opposite the Ramchandrapura Math complex. Spanning across what seemed like a narrow ravine, possibly carved out by a dry riverbed or stream from the Sharavathy backwaters, the scene was picturesque. As we crossed over, we were greeted by the serene figure of Lord Sri Krishna, flute in hand, overlooking the serene setting. Flanked by rows of cowsheds on either side of a quaint temple, the Goshalas were a sight to behold.

Here, in this serene sanctuary, we encountered around 500 cattle, each one a living representation of India's indigenous cow breeds. These cows, some of which we captured in the video below, were tended to by a dedicated team, ensuring their well-being and preservation. The complex was a self-contained ecosystem, housing a Cow Products Unit, a Gobar Gas Generator, and Cattle Feed Sheds, all integral to the sustainable management of this unique endeavor.

Our visit to Ramchandrapura Math and its Goshalas was more than just a journey; it was an immersion into a world where tradition, nature, and spirituality converge. It was a vivid reminder of the intricate tapestry of India's heritage, a heritage that continues to thrive in the heart of Karnataka, preserved by the dedication of those who cherish it. This enchanting destination, nestled in the Western Ghats, is not just a haven for India's native cattle breeds but a beacon of cultural and spiritual richness, inviting all who seek a deeper connection with India's timeless legacy.

Various indigenous Cow breeds found in Sri Ramachandrapura Mutt Gaushala Hosanagara

 GIR

- Found in: Saurashtra, Gujarat

- Characteristics: A high milk-yielding breed, extensively used for hybrid varieties both in India and internationally, notably in Brazil.

 SAHIWAL

- Found in: Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana

- Characteristics: Recognizable by its prominent red color. Originates from the Sahiwal district of Punjab province in Pakistan.

 KANKREJ

- Found in: Bhuj, North Gujarat, Rajasthan

- Characteristics: Bullocks are strong and hard-working. Among the largest cattle breeds in India.

 RED KANDHARI

- Found in: Marathwada, Maharashtra

- Characteristics: Bullocks are good for draught work. Cows are good milkers.

 NIMARI

- Found in: Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh

- Characteristics: Dual-purpose breed for milk and draught. Animals are copper-colored with patches of white.

 MALVI

- Found in: Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan

- Characteristics: Bullocks are useful for ploughing. Cows are average milkers.

 KHILLARI

- Found in: Southern Maharashtra, Northern Karnataka

- Characteristics: Bullocks are hardy and known for being fast workers.

 HALLIKAR

- Found in: Hassan, Mysore, Tunkur districts of Karnataka

- Characteristics: Draught breed used for road and field agricultural operations. Related to Amrit Mahal but thinner and with lower milk yield.

 BARAGURU

- Found in: Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

- Characteristics: Bullocks are good for work.

 KASARGOD

- Found in: Kerala

- Characteristics: Known for excellent milking ability, producing mineral-rich milk with a high feed-to-milk ratio.

 PONGANUR

- Found in: Andhra Pradesh

- Characteristics: The breed's milk has a high fat content. It's among the world's smallest humped cattle breeds.

 MALENADU GIDDA

- Found in: Coastal and hilly areas of Karnataka

- Characteristics: Small, dwarfish cows. Known for low milk yield varieties

 

The Ramchandrapura Matha also houses a small counter at the office (video coverage in next blog post) where several excellent cow products (gavya utpanna) are sold.

 Sri Ramachandrapura Mutt Gaushala Hosanagara: Traveler's Checklist

 Location

- Place: Ramchandrapura Math

- Distance: 6 Kms from Hosanagar town, approximately 66 Kms from Shimoga.

 How to Reach

- Travel Options:

  - Overnight train or bus from Bangalore/Bengaluru to Shimoga/Shivamogga (300 Kms, 6 hours journey).

  - Cab via NH48.

 Accommodation

• - Where to Stay: Cottages provided by Ramchandrapura Math.
• - Booking Advice: Advance booking recommended due to high demand on certain days.
• - Cost: Rs.600 per day for a clean cottage with hot water facility.
• - Note: The cottages are not tourist resorts, so expectations should be set accordingly.

 Nearby Attractions

• - Humcha Village: Located 22 kms away, known for historic Jain temples.
• - Kodachadri: A paradise for trekkers and nature enthusiasts, 30 kms away.
• - Jog Falls in Gersoppa: India's second-highest waterfall, 44 kms away, with a drop of 253 m (830 ft).

 Contact Information

- Ramachandrapura Mutt Hosanagara:

  - Contact Number: Telefax # 081852 56050

  - Address:

    - Jagadguru Shankaracharya Mahasamsthanam – Shree Samsthana Gokarna

    - Shree Ramachandrapura Math

    - Post Haniya – 577418,

    - Hosanagara Taluk, Shimoga District,

    - Karnataka, India

 Administrative Office

- Address:

  - ‘Shree Ramashrama’, #2A, J.P. Road,

  - Girinagar 1st Phase, Bangalore – 560085,

  - Karnataka, India

- Telefax: 080 26724979

List of branches of Sri Ramachandrapura Math in Karnataka
1. Sri Ramachandrapura Matha, Hosanagara Taluk (Profile)

2. Sri Ragoottama Matha, Gokarna (Profile)

3. Sri Ragoottama Matha, Kekkaru, Honnavara Taluk (Profile)

4. Sri Ramachandrapura Matha, Thirthahalli (Profile)

5. Apsarakonda Matha, Kasaragodu (Profile)

6. Sri Ramadeva Math, Bankuli, Siddapura Taluk (Profile)

7. Sri Ramachandrapura Matha, Peraje, Bantvala Taluk (Profile)

8. Sri Ramashrama, Girinagara, Bangalore (Profile)

9. Sri Ramakrishna Kalika Matha, Ambagiri, Sirsi (Profile)

10. Sri Ramashrama, Chadaravalli, Sagara Taluk (Profile)

Banavasi Kadamba Madhukeshwara Temple

On a crisp fall day in 2019, my friend Ganapati and his wife Aparna, all the way from Dallas, graced us with their presence, and with them, an opportunity arose to finally visit the enchanting Banavasi Madhukeshwara Temple.

After a restful night in Sirsi, following our earlier exploration of Ramchandrapura Matha in Hosanagara, we set off for a short, scenic drive to Banavasi. This quaint town, nestled along the banks of the Varada River, welcomed us with its lush greenery and an aura of unspoiled, rustic beauty.

Stepping into the Banavasi Madhukeshwara Temple was like entering a different realm where history and artistry intertwine. The priest, with his eloquent narration (captured in the video below), wove a tapestry of Pampa's beautiful poetry that was as melodious to the ears as the temple's stone art was mesmerizing to the eyes.

Banavasi Madhukeshwara Temple as per ASI (Archeological Survey of India)

Drenched in history, the Madhukeswara temple, according to the Archeological Survey of India, has evolved from its original dedication to Madhava, a form of Vishnu, during the Kadamba period. It has witnessed extensive additions and alterations, a story told through more than twelve inscriptions and architectural features dating from the Western Chalukyas to the Sonda kings.

The temple's east-facing design features a square garbhagriha with a circumambulatory passage, enshrining the Madhukeswara linga on a decorated yonipitha. Its two sub-shrines, dedicated to Mahishamardini and Ganesa, and a large hall with massive square pillars, speak volumes of the Western Chalukyan era. The superstructure, a blend of Vijayanagara-Sonda styles, rises in a stepped pyramidal Kadambanagara style, adorned with stucco figures of Nandi, the ten incarnations of Vishnu, the twelve forms of Aditya, and other deities.

 

The temple's roof, flat at the center and sloping along the periphery, and its dhvajastambha, or flagpole, in front, add to its grandeur. The contributions of the Sonda kings are evident in the sub-shrines along the prakara wall, housing various deities and sculptures.

Notably, the temple grounds house a remarkable inscribed Naga sculpture, dating back to the 2nd century AD. This artistic creation, alongside a stone cot donated by Raghunatha Nayaka in AD 1628, showcases exquisite carvings, each inch a testament to the craftsmen's skill.

Banavasi is not just about the Madhukeshwara Temple. It's a treasure trove of history, with other temples like Adikadambeswara and Adimadhukeswara, each modest yet rich in ornamentation and stories. This journey to Banavasi was not just a visit to a historical site; it was a walk through the pages of time, where every stone and sculpture whispered tales of a glorious past.

Banavasi Tourist Fact File

Place	Banavasi, 40 Kms from Sirsi,  around 175 Kms from Hubli
How to reach there	From Bengaluru or Mumbai take a overnight train to Hubli. From there you get plenty of daily KSRTC buses to Sirsi or hire a cab. From Goa you can come via Karwar-Kumta route.
Where to Stay	Stay in Sirsi town, Hotel Madhuvan &Samrat are two decent options. While Samrat (managed by planters association) is in the city, Madhuvan is on the outskirts and in a quite, green surroundings. We stayed in Hotel Madhuvan.
Nearby places to see	Marikamba Temple in the town, Sahasralinga (12 kms from Sirsi). We also visited Gauswarga (a large cattle shed) about 35 kms away where many Indian varieteies of cows are rescued and sheltered