This topic has been at the back of my mind for a while now. The big question is "girls equal to boys" or are "boys equal to girls". There have been a lot of debates on this front, and a lot of people would want to join this one too. I am no authority and what you will be reading is my perspective about this whole topic. It is questionable and you may want to post your thoughts in here too, but please understand, its strictly my viewpoint.
To begin with, i want to understand this whole reason of comparison. I believe it all started with the dominance in early years. But here is where i believe things went out of context as the comparison or dominance is not the reason for if i remember it clearly, God created two separate entities with two different aims and results.
Let’s go back in history and try to relate to it. Man was "gatherer and Hunter" what it means is, he has to look out for new avenues for arranging food. This also involved hunting the animals and aiming at fruits on trees. Which necessarily meant that he had to be focused and had to aim at a particular thing/animal. That's where present generation men get the inability to look beyond the person sitting in front of you. Try a small exercise, go to coffee with your friends, spend about half an hour, then try to remember the color of sofa/chair or something which was not in the vicinity. Chances of you remembering it will be very low. Also, try this, go out with your girlfriend and try to keep talking to her while try to look at someone else, i am sure, you'd be caught and prompted coz you will not be able to disguise it.
On the contrary, girls/women were at home, and had the duty to protect the house/kids from scavengers. Which necessarily meant that they have to have a 360 degree view. That's the sole reason why your girlfriend can do all of the above without you noticing it. :)
Now, the second thought, males are typically considered extremely efficient while doing multi-tasking. So much so, that if you are good at it, you would rise very high in your ranks and very fast. While its extremely normal for women to manage and remember kitchen, kids, clothes, shopping, etc. This doesn’t mean that either is superior or inferior, its just the way it is meant to be.
The third comparison, physical strength. Man as i mentioned, was a hunter/gatherer, it was imperative for him to be strong as he didn’t knew what would attack him and from where. While women was most of the time protected and hence subsequently developed a low content of physical power. Now, i am not undermining their ability to do the work and bear kids, etc, all i am saying is that its easy for a man to push the car, change the wheels while its apparently difficult for women to do it.
If you read through above things, i have never compared the mental ability of either. There is a reason for it, for i believe that mental ability is same in both. This is the reason of having so many woman colleagues at office as these days its less of physical work and more of mental prowess that's required to complete the work. Woman are rising in their ability to compete with men but there is a limitation, they are competing "best" when its work which requires mental strength and controlled environment.
The other critical thing that i have always believed is, why is this need of comparison. Why do we want to be like other, why not retain our very reason to be. Now, by this I don’t mean women shouldn’t work, or that women are not capable (i know, i will have to be an idiot or a digvijay singh to take the debate to this nonsensical level), It’s just that some jobs, some profiles suit women better than man and that we have different responsibilities in society. The exceptions exist and will always exists, e.g. a woman working as a JCB driver for Tata motors and a Male chef with worlds best hotel. But, the core remains that we are two separate entities and should honor and respect it.
Comparison should always be within the category and not with the other category. Be a better man or a be a better woman, rather trying to be a better man over a woman or vice versa. God has made two separate entities, with separate aim and functionality, why do we want to lose the focus and compare them and loose all that can be earned.
Some people will talk about respect coming with working, or by being able to compete with men in the world. Let me correct it, your grandma, or mother were equally respected, yes a little less powerful than maybe your wife due to the monetary factor but there was no problem with respect. It’s just an outlook which money has brought in this debate.
Again, i have no problem in women working, i have no problem in men managing kitchen (i absolutely love doing it) but its this comparison that i hate, i don’t want to be compared to my wife in anything, not that either of us is superior but its just that you can’t compare one star to another star, only thing you would get is an argument and nothing beyond.
So all you people who talk about a girl being equal to a boy, try and ponder over giving better means to the girl in the path that she can excel, rather than trying to make her do the things that boy would do. Also, to parents, never make this statement to your daughter as all you are doing is undermining her very existence and downgrading her abilities.
-------------------
Story of a man as told by his grandson
This is story of a man, my grandpa Sh. G. L. Sharma Sahib as told by me.....
21st August 1924, my grandfather was born in extremely poor circumstances, with a thatched roof on top and barely one meal a day. His father expired when he was all but 4yrs and his mom passed away soon too. Before she passed away she ensured that he was set onto a never ending journey of perseverance, effort and commitment towards his work. This is his story as I have known him ever since I was a kid.
Born in a very humble family Sh. G.L. Sharma (Sh. Ghansi Lal Sharma) was all set to become the first ever man to achieve the heights which was so far only read or heard. He made it all possible by his sheer ability to work hard. Though some might debate on his intelligence levels and his smartness, none doubt his ability to work non-stop like a machine.
Early days: -
Since he was born in a very poor family and a very small village, “gagchana” in “Cheepabadood” tehsil in Baran district of Rajasthan, he had no option but to rely on mercy of people to help him complete his education. Now, here is a catch, he could’ve decided not to work hard and stay in that small village, earn whatever little and cry out to destiny (finding a connect!! Most of us often happily and easily blame our destiny for not having opportunity). But he decided instead to take on the world. He first moved to another, but slightly bigger, village called Seesvaali. There the schools were till matriculation or 10th as we know it now. He completed his matriculation and was always brightest student of his class. Such was his ability to strive that he used to study till he could keep his eyes no longer open. People used to look at his window to see if the lamp is still on and anyone who said that I would study longer than him, lost to him everytime.
Job marriage and kids: -
Those days it was very rare for one to complete the education even till this level and hence jobs were easy. He took the job of a third level school teacher to feed his family. He studied hard and built a very strong foundation in grammar, both hindi and English. Such was his command that whenever his school teachers used to debate about any confusion, they used to take his word as final on the matter.
He got married to a rather humble lady, Pushpa devi Sharma from another very poor background and a very small village. She was illiterate, and had no basic education. She was from another very small village called “Setkolu”. I don’t remember her ever talking to him directly or loud. She used to address him by “Sahab”. Despite being illiterate and having no clue of what education could bring in, she complemented him well by taking complete control of his house and leaving him with what he liked the most, reading and study.
They had 7 kids,( 4 boys and 3 girls). A big family with so many kids meant that my grandpa had to work even hard to feed them all, needless to mention, he did much better than that.
Further studies: -
He never stopped at a third level teaching job, he soon found out that in order to grow more and rise higher, he needs to study further. He did his B.A.(Bachelor of Arts), M.A.(Master of Arts - English), L.L.B.(Bachelor of Law). While he was in teaching, he realized that it’s impossible with this, so he strived further. He did his B.Ed. (Bachelor of Education) and then M.Ed (Master of Education). He continued to study till all his kids were born, which necessarily meant that he studied till 1971, a whooping 47 yrs of his life.
He always dreamt big and worked very hard towards achieving his goal. He never looked at time while studying, this ensured that he could only sleep for couple of hours a day. This took toll on his health and he went down with severe fever. His efforts didn’t stopped, he decided to put more efforts, such was his perseverance that once when the fever was not going away, he decided to take bath in open. It was winters and people who know Rajasthan can tell you that it really becomes very cold during winters. He went out, sat down and took bath in open.
If you are already thinking that this is maximum that a man can do to achieve his goals, wait till I tell you more….
Career growth: -
Most of the people of his age became comfortable with a job of a teacher and continued their life. He couldn’t stay in there, so he started climbing the ladder. People who knew him tell us, never was the case when he bowed down to pressures and never was the case when he took a lesser path. He always moved with truth and nothing short. This ensured that he had to struggle twice the normal effort, but so be it!!
He became principal, Inspector of school and then went even further to become Joint Director of Education, Rajasthan. There has been no second example like him, no one could put in so much of effort!!
He continued to work even after his retirement, primarily because he had to feed a big family.
Family and relationships: -
Not all men are perfect, he wasn’t either. In his pursuit of success, he started getting extremely busy and they by the distance between him and his family kept on becoming wider. Here, I can vouch for the fact that he loved all his kids like a father would do and have always wanted best for them; just the he had his priorities well placed. Two of his kids could live up to the perseverance that he had and therefore became near best in their lives, the rest, decided to live a chilled life and ended up in shackles. The only wrong that he did was to consider them all equal and push them hard.
He had three basic and very strong values: -
1. Be polite to all
2. Get up early and do your own chores
3. Respect comes with efforts
He was polite to even 6 months old great grand niece leave apart anyone else. No one who met him could believe that despite being such a strong personality, he was extremely humble to people around him. This made him extremely popular amongst people and left such an impression that who so ever met him once, could never forget him.
For his entire life, he woke up at 5am, washed his own clothes by hand, cleaned up his room and made his bed. Yes, for a whooping 80 yrs in life!! He did it every single day. He used to wear customary white shirt and a black pant when he used to step out of house, the toe of his shoes was always shining and yes, he used to polish them every-time he wore them. He dressing sense was impeccable and he was always dressed to the occasion.
My memories of him are confined to him working, I have never in my life seen him whiling away time, or sitting idle. So much so, that I have never seen him taking a nap in afternoon. He always used to say, “early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy wealthy and wise”, needless to mention, he followed it till this April 2011….. from 1924 to 2011, a massive discipline!!
Religious: -
I could never forget the call that he made to me when I was packing my bags to go to USA on an assignment. He said “son, never forget that you are son and grandson of a brahmin, all our lives we have been vegetarians, it would break my heart and faith if I hear anything otherwise for you. Please ensure that even if it comes to stay hungry, so be it, you would never cross the line”. I returned the call when I came back to him, and when I said, “Baba, I lived up to your expectations and followed the procedures”, I could sense a pride in his voice when he said “good boy” (his famous phrase for us).
Most people in India read either Shreemad bhagwat geeta, or Ramayana. He was regular at both and remembered them like it was imprinted in him. He always insisted on all the ceremonies to be done by the book, no shortcuts allowed, most of the time, he did them by his own hands.
My grandpa was the man who ensured that we have a better life, that we see the world, and that we could stand amongst most learned of the world and earn some respect for ourselves. Hence if today we are appreciated, it because of one man who left the comforts of life and struggled almost entire life to ensure that his sons and grandsons have something better for themselves.
Baba, we will try to keep your legacy alive, a legacy where efforts are not counted, where we don’t wait for awards, where we just work and do more work, for we always will believe in your words “There is no substitute to hard work”.
Anna-No Anna
I'd never thought i would ever write anything on this matter. This particular event has taken my entire country by storm and people have not shown such fight for anything in life. But i want to ponder a little as what is happening around and how it might impact. This is my opinion and while i will be ok with your comments i dont think it will change anything in the way i have perceived this whole thing.
The Event: -
Phase 1: - Anna wants a lokpal bill
Phase 2: - Anna wants a "stronger" lokpal bill
Action: - Hordes of people are on the roads protesting for what Anna wants and demanding government to do it.
My view point: -
I seriously doubt more than 10% people actually know whats this whole Janlokpal bill is about. Which also means, we do neither know the things which are mentioned in there, nor do we know what impact it will have. However, some people have actually simplified this whole events by stating that "If lokpal bill comes country will have lesser corruption than it has presently".
This is exactly what troubles me for: -
1) I dont think corruption is due to some tool/technique/technology, its basically due to mentality of people. Hence, the inference is not going to be validated unless we stop our mentality to earn a few quick bucks. Janlokpal has a very important parameter, "Jan" and "lok", i believe both are directly related to people. Hence, unless we, as people, change, i dont think it would bring about any change with/without lokpal bill.
2) All the people participating in this lokpal bill protests are actually frustrated by rising cost of living, which i dont know who, has related to rise in corruption in the country. Now, my simple brain doesnt understand how rising corruption can actually increase costs. But looks like something is connected in here. I am only worried about rising costs so if Janlokpal bill will actually reduce costs then i am for it.
I believe here is the connection between rising costs and corruption. Now i am open for a debate on this..
"X" amount is allocated for a project, it becomes "X+Y", "Y" being the value going into the pockets of people. This "Y" actually increases the taxes on general public due to the excessive spending and delay in recovering, therefore increasing the fiscal deficit. This increase in Tax is levied directly on general public and items for their daily usage, hence the cost of products/services goes up and so the price rise is the result.
3) I am 32 yrs of age, and Anna is 79, i dont think i knew him 6 months ago. I am sure he has done lot of good for people, and he has been a freedom fighter. But i still didnt knew him 6 months ago, and suddenly he has become a household name. Janlokpal has actually done a lot of good to his image, coz i am sure by now even the world would be knowing him (by virtue of protests across the globe). My problem is that someone actually compared him to gandhi. Now while the only similarity that i draw is that former is fighting against corruption and the latter had fought against british "for the people". Beyond this small comparison i dont see anything big that brings anna closer to Gandhi. I am still with Anna in his pursuit, just that i want him to know, that while british were men of morale, he is up against "Assholes" who can turn, twist and even bring in someone by the name Godse, to kill Anna. Its not the same era, where british would at max resort to a Lathicharge and/or filling the prisons. Here these buggers can actually higher goons and get Anna killed.
4) This the last point and i am very surprised with this one, the media coverage for Anna is unprecedented, now i have no particular grudge against Media but i still manage to hate them. Reasons are: - Media is tracking Anna to the extent of which cell he has been kept in, what did he do at what hour, what did he say etc etc, but the same media has no clue on some bigger issues: -
a) Who did the bomb blasts in mumbai,
b) Why Kasab is happily eating away chicken in jail on my taxes (to top it all, i am a veggie!!!),
c) where did Sonia gandhi go and for treatment of which ailment?,
d) Rahul gandhi was caught at boston airport with 1600K USD and was detained by FBI, no news on that!!,
e) Rahul gandhi has a girl friend who is alledged to be a daughter of a mafia,
f) Sonia gandhi is having links with people who buy and sell old indian artifacts illegaly(actually her sister has a shop in Italy), etc etc.
Now after so many things, what pains me the most is that i am increasingly getting inclined towards the thought that nothing's gonna change the country. Anna, i am with you, and i would really want you to bring about the change, but some where deep in me, i have this belief that the goons are much bigger than you and that you would also be sucked into this blackhole of dirty politics and hence, we will restore the normal behaviour.
I know in my country people pay to be born, to be educated, to get a job, to get a promotion, to get a transfer, to get their pension, to get their proper medication and finally they even pay to be buried in proper place, its just normal that the paid money has to be earned too, its rampant and its at grass root level, corruption is way of being in india, one injection called Anna, isnt good enough to be cured, i guess we need a proper rehab!!
signing off!!
The Event: -
Phase 1: - Anna wants a lokpal bill
Phase 2: - Anna wants a "stronger" lokpal bill
Action: - Hordes of people are on the roads protesting for what Anna wants and demanding government to do it.
My view point: -
I seriously doubt more than 10% people actually know whats this whole Janlokpal bill is about. Which also means, we do neither know the things which are mentioned in there, nor do we know what impact it will have. However, some people have actually simplified this whole events by stating that "If lokpal bill comes country will have lesser corruption than it has presently".
This is exactly what troubles me for: -
1) I dont think corruption is due to some tool/technique/technology, its basically due to mentality of people. Hence, the inference is not going to be validated unless we stop our mentality to earn a few quick bucks. Janlokpal has a very important parameter, "Jan" and "lok", i believe both are directly related to people. Hence, unless we, as people, change, i dont think it would bring about any change with/without lokpal bill.
2) All the people participating in this lokpal bill protests are actually frustrated by rising cost of living, which i dont know who, has related to rise in corruption in the country. Now, my simple brain doesnt understand how rising corruption can actually increase costs. But looks like something is connected in here. I am only worried about rising costs so if Janlokpal bill will actually reduce costs then i am for it.
I believe here is the connection between rising costs and corruption. Now i am open for a debate on this..
"X" amount is allocated for a project, it becomes "X+Y", "Y" being the value going into the pockets of people. This "Y" actually increases the taxes on general public due to the excessive spending and delay in recovering, therefore increasing the fiscal deficit. This increase in Tax is levied directly on general public and items for their daily usage, hence the cost of products/services goes up and so the price rise is the result.
3) I am 32 yrs of age, and Anna is 79, i dont think i knew him 6 months ago. I am sure he has done lot of good for people, and he has been a freedom fighter. But i still didnt knew him 6 months ago, and suddenly he has become a household name. Janlokpal has actually done a lot of good to his image, coz i am sure by now even the world would be knowing him (by virtue of protests across the globe). My problem is that someone actually compared him to gandhi. Now while the only similarity that i draw is that former is fighting against corruption and the latter had fought against british "for the people". Beyond this small comparison i dont see anything big that brings anna closer to Gandhi. I am still with Anna in his pursuit, just that i want him to know, that while british were men of morale, he is up against "Assholes" who can turn, twist and even bring in someone by the name Godse, to kill Anna. Its not the same era, where british would at max resort to a Lathicharge and/or filling the prisons. Here these buggers can actually higher goons and get Anna killed.
4) This the last point and i am very surprised with this one, the media coverage for Anna is unprecedented, now i have no particular grudge against Media but i still manage to hate them. Reasons are: - Media is tracking Anna to the extent of which cell he has been kept in, what did he do at what hour, what did he say etc etc, but the same media has no clue on some bigger issues: -
a) Who did the bomb blasts in mumbai,
b) Why Kasab is happily eating away chicken in jail on my taxes (to top it all, i am a veggie!!!),
c) where did Sonia gandhi go and for treatment of which ailment?,
d) Rahul gandhi was caught at boston airport with 1600K USD and was detained by FBI, no news on that!!,
e) Rahul gandhi has a girl friend who is alledged to be a daughter of a mafia,
f) Sonia gandhi is having links with people who buy and sell old indian artifacts illegaly(actually her sister has a shop in Italy), etc etc.
Now after so many things, what pains me the most is that i am increasingly getting inclined towards the thought that nothing's gonna change the country. Anna, i am with you, and i would really want you to bring about the change, but some where deep in me, i have this belief that the goons are much bigger than you and that you would also be sucked into this blackhole of dirty politics and hence, we will restore the normal behaviour.
I know in my country people pay to be born, to be educated, to get a job, to get a promotion, to get a transfer, to get their pension, to get their proper medication and finally they even pay to be buried in proper place, its just normal that the paid money has to be earned too, its rampant and its at grass root level, corruption is way of being in india, one injection called Anna, isnt good enough to be cured, i guess we need a proper rehab!!
signing off!!
Males in my family
Ok, after a long-ish pause, i decided to put down about the males in my family, each one of them is a legend in himself, humble, intelligent and someone to look upto. I always wondered where could someone like me, who happens to be so average in mental ability, draws inspiration to lead a decent living, and then i found out, God must be in a real good mood while creating me to have made me a part of such a family. Read through each of these profiles and you'd know the legacy that i belong to and the reason why i strive so much to become better each day.
1. Shri G. L. Sharma ji (dadaji): - Retired as a Joint director of eduction, member of AICTE technical panel, this man was born in a very small village in Baran distt in rajasthan. At the age of four he lost both his parents, had no place to go or live, decided to take the life to a different level. Started funding his own eduction when he was 10 yrs by giving tutions to kids of lesser age. Kept the flame burning till 65 (yes, he worked till this age). He wears nothing other than whites, washes his own clothes (till today, he is 87 yrs), keeps his room clean, wakes up at 5am every single day, take bath and gets ready by 6am. I am yet to come across a more disciplined person than him. A legend who rose from nowhere to the heights that are still beyond our reach, all by himself. Loves eating good food, reading (his taste is John Keats!!), and remembers every single thing of his life.
2. Shri L.N. Sharma ji (nanaji): - Retired as Head of the department, sanskrit faculty, University of Jodhpur, this man again was born to a very poor family who didnt even had money to buy him chappals leave alone books. He used to walk 30 kms bare feet with cloth tied to his legs to go to school in a near by town. Started funding his eduction by winning scholorships. Ensure that not only his eduction continues, but his brothers too get the light. Had just two pair of clothes when he was married. He reached the levels which we can only dream, he stood first in 10th board exams but since his % was less than 60 (Yes, the entire set of students who wrote board exams scored less than 60, i was amused when i heard it, then was stunned when i saw his certificates), he was not given a Gold medal, instead has a certificate from Governor with a mention. With earnings as less as 12 rupees per month (when he was a prof) he raised a family with so much values that its an achievement in itself.
** my grandpa and my nanaji are childhood buddies, they continue to draw inspiration from each others achievements.
3. Shri. P. K. Sharma (Papa): - A B. E. (Civil) graduate from MBM college of Engg, Jodhpur. He is a school in himself, i had written a seperate blog on his abilities. My idol, the person that i always want to be. You can read more about him here: - http://readcoziwrote.blogspot.com/2009/03/dads-promotion.html. One thing that most people dont know about him is that he was leader of NCC in jodhpur engg college, drove a battle tank during 71 war (NCC was used to provide supplies), had hit 50/50 with his 303 during his training days.
4. Shri. N. N. Dwivedi (Fufaji): - We are truly blessed to have him with us. I mean, its rare that you come across a person with so much of influencing ability, by his mere presence he can induce so much positive energy in you that you will be ready to take on the world even if you dont have limbs. No kidding, this man is the "best man" i have ever come across. He has huge amount of knowledge on Indian classical music, Bengal literature, English literature and Indian literature. He is a school in himself when it comes to learnings about life. Often i find myself at loss of words when i talk about him. He is definitely the man behind whatever little sense i have of literature and music. Really blessed to have him as a close member of my family.
5. Shri K.G.Gupta (Mamaji): - Forget about degrees and that he was responsible to bring up one entire unit of the biggest power plant in west india, forget about what he has achieved, he is single most loving father that i have ever come across. He has redifined family values for us. No matter whats the schedule, and no matter how much work pressure he is under, he would still greet us in the most loving way. He also redifined the Sister-brother relationship (he "chose" my mom to be his sister some 40 yrs ago and has ensured that none of her blood brothers stand a chance in front of him). He not only ensured that he and mamiji become the most important part of our lives, but also ensured that we connect with his kids as if we are all one. Truly blessed to have him around during my growing years. He is so expressive in his affection, that it makes everyone love him too. By the way, he is a Civil engineer from MBM engg college, Jodhpur and was with Thermal Power plant for his entire life.
6. Pankaj Khandelwal (Bhaiya): - IIT kanpur, IIM calcutta (Gold Medalist), Mckinsey... this man has achieved what every techie would like to achieve. Decided to leave his plush high paying job at Mck and started his own consulting company. Works in the agri sector and uses his brain for the good of farmers. I heard about his first speech to the farmers when he decided to take over the management of Desai fruits and vegetables, the speech left people in tears. He is one techie who has got his feet planted on the ground and achieves every single thing that he sets his eye on. A loving father, a patient brother, and a dedicate family man. Someone who continues to make us proud and show the path for last 20 yrs. If born again, if given a choice i would like to be born as him. :)
7. Piyush Khandelwal (Bhaiya): - He is one fellow who is the real"dude" despite being from a small town, Kota. He takes the bull by the horn and grooms it into his pet. Awesome attitude, sometime arrogant, but ready to rule the world all the time. I remember, even as a child he was always ambitious, and needless to mention that he is on a spree of achievements. IIT K happened first, next was Sapient, then INSEAD (Swiss) sealed it all. He is currently working as CTO of a tech company and with only sky as limit, this man has a long way to go. I wish i could have attitude like him. :)
8. Navendu Dwivedi: - It was not long ago when the world wrote him off, stating that even if this man could earn a decent living it would be God's grace. Little did they knew that in that small body and even smaller eyes, there was a fire to achieve the best. We have seen him stand whole night and run that machine by hand which was printing one paper at a time for an assignment of 3000 copies. Then the Laserprints happened for him, with his dedication, focus and efforts, he transformed Laserprints to what its today. He not only is making a good living for himself but also for his family. It will not be an exaggeration if i would mention that Laserprints, prints more than any other printing press in the entire 4 districts that surround my hometown. With the next level already in sight, he is all set to go higher in life. Someone who has redefined dedication, he is one of the strongest personalities that i have seen.
9. Rakesh Pachauri (Jiyaji): - Average life, made big, lost it all, got down with health, written off not once but atleast 4-5 times, this man is a real living "phoenix" who has the ability to rise even when the closest to him write him off. Undoubtedly the strongest personalities in all respect that i have ever seen. Everytime, world pushes him to the wall, he emerges stronger, wiser, humble, and rich. He is known his close quarters as someone who talks "hard", parties "harder", works "Hardest". Best thing about him, he is always same, whether he is struggling to meet the ends or whether he is having enough in life to even throw it on the road, he is just the same. He has been on my side for as far as i can remember. Whether its about sharing a dream or a drink, he is a person i always look upto. Rakesh jiyaji, loving di was one part, loving pupul was still ok.. but just a few days back i wrote to pupul that i want to come to delhi not for either of the two, but to spend sometime with you. That's how i place you in life.
10. The write up will not be complete without mentioning a few names which have strong influence on my life, Shri Sharad Dixit (kanwar sahib), Shri Dinesh Kaushik (Father in law), Ankit, Prasoon (munnu - there is a seperate blog on him too), Vaibhav Sharma, Ankur Suri. I have spent quality time with each one of the mentioned people. They have played a strong role in helping me making a personality that i am today.
Life's good, i am lucky and with so many people as path breakers and so much already achieved, its just normal for me to keep pushing my limits all the time. In order to stand amongst the "league of Gentlemen" mentioned above, i guess an average head like me needs to keep working hard. So much to learn, so many things to do and even more to achieve, the world is just a playground, and i know i got to be a good player to keep inheriting the knowledge that's available.
Feels great to be lucky enough to have been bron in a clan like this.
1. Shri G. L. Sharma ji (dadaji): - Retired as a Joint director of eduction, member of AICTE technical panel, this man was born in a very small village in Baran distt in rajasthan. At the age of four he lost both his parents, had no place to go or live, decided to take the life to a different level. Started funding his own eduction when he was 10 yrs by giving tutions to kids of lesser age. Kept the flame burning till 65 (yes, he worked till this age). He wears nothing other than whites, washes his own clothes (till today, he is 87 yrs), keeps his room clean, wakes up at 5am every single day, take bath and gets ready by 6am. I am yet to come across a more disciplined person than him. A legend who rose from nowhere to the heights that are still beyond our reach, all by himself. Loves eating good food, reading (his taste is John Keats!!), and remembers every single thing of his life.
2. Shri L.N. Sharma ji (nanaji): - Retired as Head of the department, sanskrit faculty, University of Jodhpur, this man again was born to a very poor family who didnt even had money to buy him chappals leave alone books. He used to walk 30 kms bare feet with cloth tied to his legs to go to school in a near by town. Started funding his eduction by winning scholorships. Ensure that not only his eduction continues, but his brothers too get the light. Had just two pair of clothes when he was married. He reached the levels which we can only dream, he stood first in 10th board exams but since his % was less than 60 (Yes, the entire set of students who wrote board exams scored less than 60, i was amused when i heard it, then was stunned when i saw his certificates), he was not given a Gold medal, instead has a certificate from Governor with a mention. With earnings as less as 12 rupees per month (when he was a prof) he raised a family with so much values that its an achievement in itself.
** my grandpa and my nanaji are childhood buddies, they continue to draw inspiration from each others achievements.
3. Shri. P. K. Sharma (Papa): - A B. E. (Civil) graduate from MBM college of Engg, Jodhpur. He is a school in himself, i had written a seperate blog on his abilities. My idol, the person that i always want to be. You can read more about him here: - http://readcoziwrote.blogspot.com/2009/03/dads-promotion.html. One thing that most people dont know about him is that he was leader of NCC in jodhpur engg college, drove a battle tank during 71 war (NCC was used to provide supplies), had hit 50/50 with his 303 during his training days.
4. Shri. N. N. Dwivedi (Fufaji): - We are truly blessed to have him with us. I mean, its rare that you come across a person with so much of influencing ability, by his mere presence he can induce so much positive energy in you that you will be ready to take on the world even if you dont have limbs. No kidding, this man is the "best man" i have ever come across. He has huge amount of knowledge on Indian classical music, Bengal literature, English literature and Indian literature. He is a school in himself when it comes to learnings about life. Often i find myself at loss of words when i talk about him. He is definitely the man behind whatever little sense i have of literature and music. Really blessed to have him as a close member of my family.
5. Shri K.G.Gupta (Mamaji): - Forget about degrees and that he was responsible to bring up one entire unit of the biggest power plant in west india, forget about what he has achieved, he is single most loving father that i have ever come across. He has redifined family values for us. No matter whats the schedule, and no matter how much work pressure he is under, he would still greet us in the most loving way. He also redifined the Sister-brother relationship (he "chose" my mom to be his sister some 40 yrs ago and has ensured that none of her blood brothers stand a chance in front of him). He not only ensured that he and mamiji become the most important part of our lives, but also ensured that we connect with his kids as if we are all one. Truly blessed to have him around during my growing years. He is so expressive in his affection, that it makes everyone love him too. By the way, he is a Civil engineer from MBM engg college, Jodhpur and was with Thermal Power plant for his entire life.
6. Pankaj Khandelwal (Bhaiya): - IIT kanpur, IIM calcutta (Gold Medalist), Mckinsey... this man has achieved what every techie would like to achieve. Decided to leave his plush high paying job at Mck and started his own consulting company. Works in the agri sector and uses his brain for the good of farmers. I heard about his first speech to the farmers when he decided to take over the management of Desai fruits and vegetables, the speech left people in tears. He is one techie who has got his feet planted on the ground and achieves every single thing that he sets his eye on. A loving father, a patient brother, and a dedicate family man. Someone who continues to make us proud and show the path for last 20 yrs. If born again, if given a choice i would like to be born as him. :)
7. Piyush Khandelwal (Bhaiya): - He is one fellow who is the real"dude" despite being from a small town, Kota. He takes the bull by the horn and grooms it into his pet. Awesome attitude, sometime arrogant, but ready to rule the world all the time. I remember, even as a child he was always ambitious, and needless to mention that he is on a spree of achievements. IIT K happened first, next was Sapient, then INSEAD (Swiss) sealed it all. He is currently working as CTO of a tech company and with only sky as limit, this man has a long way to go. I wish i could have attitude like him. :)
8. Navendu Dwivedi: - It was not long ago when the world wrote him off, stating that even if this man could earn a decent living it would be God's grace. Little did they knew that in that small body and even smaller eyes, there was a fire to achieve the best. We have seen him stand whole night and run that machine by hand which was printing one paper at a time for an assignment of 3000 copies. Then the Laserprints happened for him, with his dedication, focus and efforts, he transformed Laserprints to what its today. He not only is making a good living for himself but also for his family. It will not be an exaggeration if i would mention that Laserprints, prints more than any other printing press in the entire 4 districts that surround my hometown. With the next level already in sight, he is all set to go higher in life. Someone who has redefined dedication, he is one of the strongest personalities that i have seen.
9. Rakesh Pachauri (Jiyaji): - Average life, made big, lost it all, got down with health, written off not once but atleast 4-5 times, this man is a real living "phoenix" who has the ability to rise even when the closest to him write him off. Undoubtedly the strongest personalities in all respect that i have ever seen. Everytime, world pushes him to the wall, he emerges stronger, wiser, humble, and rich. He is known his close quarters as someone who talks "hard", parties "harder", works "Hardest". Best thing about him, he is always same, whether he is struggling to meet the ends or whether he is having enough in life to even throw it on the road, he is just the same. He has been on my side for as far as i can remember. Whether its about sharing a dream or a drink, he is a person i always look upto. Rakesh jiyaji, loving di was one part, loving pupul was still ok.. but just a few days back i wrote to pupul that i want to come to delhi not for either of the two, but to spend sometime with you. That's how i place you in life.
10. The write up will not be complete without mentioning a few names which have strong influence on my life, Shri Sharad Dixit (kanwar sahib), Shri Dinesh Kaushik (Father in law), Ankit, Prasoon (munnu - there is a seperate blog on him too), Vaibhav Sharma, Ankur Suri. I have spent quality time with each one of the mentioned people. They have played a strong role in helping me making a personality that i am today.
Life's good, i am lucky and with so many people as path breakers and so much already achieved, its just normal for me to keep pushing my limits all the time. In order to stand amongst the "league of Gentlemen" mentioned above, i guess an average head like me needs to keep working hard. So much to learn, so many things to do and even more to achieve, the world is just a playground, and i know i got to be a good player to keep inheriting the knowledge that's available.
Feels great to be lucky enough to have been bron in a clan like this.
Self Appraisal and maturity to do so
This might sound right out of the horse's mouth and full of sattire, but i believe this is single most important thing in current scenario. To know, your strength as they are and to be wise enough to list out your shortcomings will ensure that you remain successful in your entire duration of work life. Talking of appraisal's can leave a taste in mouth (bitter/sour/good is situational). Appraisal's are talk of the town around march-april time frames and every company does it in two ways. Self Appraisal - done by employee and then feedback - given by reporting authorities. This piece is more focussed towards the self appraisal part of it.
Increasingly Appraisal's are being seen as "weapons of career destruction" then its actual role. Appraisal's i believe are a very good way of assessing the year as it went by. Finding out what you wanted to achieve, how much did you achieve, and what should be done so that in the coming year, you end up achieving more than the previous year. The world is competitive and so its absolutely important for you to be on a continuous improvement drive.
Some individuals are wise enough to sit, understand and chalk out a plan for themselves, others (majority) are the ones who often feel disheartened, disgruntled, deffensive, depressed and disgusted after their appraisal. I often wonder, where is the gap and decided to write down my view on it.
1. Know yourself: - IT is one place which can easily be listed down as an area which employs largest group of "Average" minded people. There is nothing wrong in being average, and by no means i want to sound derogatory. But, no matter how much we argue, IT is the only place that couldve accomodated people like me with all the shortcomings that i have.
Hence, it becomes imperative for me to know myself. First of all, to understand that i am average, with lot of shortcomings. No, i dont have to be depressed with this thought, rather, it will be begining of a journey of self realisation and setting up proper expectations from myself. I believe, all of us average people need to know these three things: -
a) Whats my aim in life? (What i want to be?)
b) Whats the time frame that i have? (deadlines are extremly important?)
c) What it takes to be the person/role that i want to become? (personality traits)
Write answers to these three questions in black and white. Offcourse you can come back and make changes, but its important to write it down. Once you have done so, be honest and write down what you currently have in your personality. Once this gap analysis is done, open up your last two appraisals and see if you have missed anything. If everything is in order then it would mean that you have defined your boundaries and the target is set.
2. Talk/read about your aim: - One might aim for anything in the world, but its often important to check the possibility of achieving it. Doing a critical analysis of the aim is as important as choosing the aim itself. Now, who do you want to be your critic also is very important. You go to your friends and they pump you up with most amazing and "wasteful" energy and anything that Amitabh Bacchan can do on screen, you would dream to achieve. You go to your boss, and if in not in his senses, he might take you to the verge of suicide. Hence, selection of a mentor is so important in life. He/she can be anyone, from any field, but is best critic of you. The person should be irrational towards you, and someone who sees you from a distance and catches your ability. Now, i know its difficult to find someone like that, but trust me its most important.
You need to inteact with your mentor who does a critical analysis of your ability whenever you get time. It can be a discussion over tea, walk, breakfast table, or any where. The other most important thing is that you should be open in your discussion with the mentor and tell him/her everything that is in your mind.
3. Draw a chart: - Put up the three questions mentioned in point number 1, and post them at a place where you can see it regularly. It can by your handheld, laptop, desktop, anything. Important is to visit these on the pre-decided time frame.
The most important critic of you, is inside your head. The problem is most often its biased. The wise man are able to remove that bias from their head and hence they are able be on a continuous improvement cycle. It will be extremly important to be a wise man in life.
The other important thing is, the difference between a Asset and a liability. Its extremly important to understand the fundamental difference between these and needless to mention that be an Asset to the company. A liability does not hold a chance to negotiate for anything. Its ok if you are a liability for a short duration, but its extremly important to keep the duration short to avoid any unpleasant circumstances.
Will write more on this asset vs liability in my next write up.
Increasingly Appraisal's are being seen as "weapons of career destruction" then its actual role. Appraisal's i believe are a very good way of assessing the year as it went by. Finding out what you wanted to achieve, how much did you achieve, and what should be done so that in the coming year, you end up achieving more than the previous year. The world is competitive and so its absolutely important for you to be on a continuous improvement drive.
Some individuals are wise enough to sit, understand and chalk out a plan for themselves, others (majority) are the ones who often feel disheartened, disgruntled, deffensive, depressed and disgusted after their appraisal. I often wonder, where is the gap and decided to write down my view on it.
1. Know yourself: - IT is one place which can easily be listed down as an area which employs largest group of "Average" minded people. There is nothing wrong in being average, and by no means i want to sound derogatory. But, no matter how much we argue, IT is the only place that couldve accomodated people like me with all the shortcomings that i have.
Hence, it becomes imperative for me to know myself. First of all, to understand that i am average, with lot of shortcomings. No, i dont have to be depressed with this thought, rather, it will be begining of a journey of self realisation and setting up proper expectations from myself. I believe, all of us average people need to know these three things: -
a) Whats my aim in life? (What i want to be?)
b) Whats the time frame that i have? (deadlines are extremly important?)
c) What it takes to be the person/role that i want to become? (personality traits)
Write answers to these three questions in black and white. Offcourse you can come back and make changes, but its important to write it down. Once you have done so, be honest and write down what you currently have in your personality. Once this gap analysis is done, open up your last two appraisals and see if you have missed anything. If everything is in order then it would mean that you have defined your boundaries and the target is set.
2. Talk/read about your aim: - One might aim for anything in the world, but its often important to check the possibility of achieving it. Doing a critical analysis of the aim is as important as choosing the aim itself. Now, who do you want to be your critic also is very important. You go to your friends and they pump you up with most amazing and "wasteful" energy and anything that Amitabh Bacchan can do on screen, you would dream to achieve. You go to your boss, and if in not in his senses, he might take you to the verge of suicide. Hence, selection of a mentor is so important in life. He/she can be anyone, from any field, but is best critic of you. The person should be irrational towards you, and someone who sees you from a distance and catches your ability. Now, i know its difficult to find someone like that, but trust me its most important.
You need to inteact with your mentor who does a critical analysis of your ability whenever you get time. It can be a discussion over tea, walk, breakfast table, or any where. The other most important thing is that you should be open in your discussion with the mentor and tell him/her everything that is in your mind.
3. Draw a chart: - Put up the three questions mentioned in point number 1, and post them at a place where you can see it regularly. It can by your handheld, laptop, desktop, anything. Important is to visit these on the pre-decided time frame.
The most important critic of you, is inside your head. The problem is most often its biased. The wise man are able to remove that bias from their head and hence they are able be on a continuous improvement cycle. It will be extremly important to be a wise man in life.
The other important thing is, the difference between a Asset and a liability. Its extremly important to understand the fundamental difference between these and needless to mention that be an Asset to the company. A liability does not hold a chance to negotiate for anything. Its ok if you are a liability for a short duration, but its extremly important to keep the duration short to avoid any unpleasant circumstances.
Will write more on this asset vs liability in my next write up.
To all the ladies in life
Amidst all the news of Girl-boy ratio going down in the country, i decided to bring out a small paragraph about each of the women who have been related to me in close quarters and have impact on my personality. Guess, this is a direct indicator to those who think women arent good and that they are not needed.
1. Dr.(Mrs) Vimla Sharma, MA, Ph.D: My mom: - She holds three Gold medals, First rank in University in BA, First Rank in University in MA, and Governors Gold medal for over all First rank in University. I guess this is maximum that anyone can achieve and hence a huge motivational factor. A loving mother, a caring wife and a hugely intelligent person.
2. Mrs. Purnima Khandelwal (Rawat): - Bhabhi: - An MBA from T.A.Pai Management institute, is Director and Co-founder of a consulting company called InI Consulting in Bombay, undoubtedly the "Men" amongst "Men". Courageous, intelligent, hard working, hugely intelligent, a loving and caring mother, and most certainly someone to look upon.
3. Mrs. Pooja Dixit (Sharma): - Sister: - MA - English, MJMC, the first one to achieve "All round best" and "Cultural best" in the same year in a college which is about 35 yrs old. Held various positions before quiting everything for family. Extremly talented dancer, loving sister and a very caring mother. Hugely courageous and very professional in her approach.
4. Mrs Gunjan Khandelwal (Gupta): - Bhabhi: - IIT Kanpur graduate, worked in companies like Infosys and Sapient. She has been a true source of inspiration when it comes to the IT industry. A loving bhabhi, and a someone who gets along very well.
5. Mrs. Nidhi Kaushik: - Wife: - A B.E. graduate in Electronics, working with HP for last 6.5yrs. An avid dancer, thorough professional and someone who leads by example. Moved from J2ee to SAP without any hassle, shows her mental strength and capability.
6. Ms. Pupul Pachauri: - Neice: - Recent addition to this list, the lady has achieved a feat that is rare, she has been selected for an initiative by HCL where in she will be creating, maintaining and running a Social Organisation in the field of Animal Welfare. Vineet Nayar, Chethan Bhagat, the lady already has a growing list of achievers has her friends.
7. Naniji: - A mother of 7 kids and a wife of a very humble man, she ensured that all her kids are properly educated and do not lack discipline in life. She was the one who held together my Nanaji's house and took over the entire responsibility of his brothers and kids equally.
8. Dadiji: - A mother of 7 kids, a wife of an absolute disciplined man, extremly loving and caring mother, a beautiful daadi and a very strong lady. She is sketched in my memory like no one else. She is an extremly important part of my memories, most of the memories that i have either start from her, or end at her. I miss her dearly.
9. Pihu: - She is my neice, the one that i love the most, though i do not get chance to spend time with her, but guess our bond is strong. She loves me a lot and i love her a lot. She is one very pretty girl who has very strong pedigree, i am sure she is going to make me very proud.
10. Kuhu, jiya, hiya, bulbul, Nunnu: - Neices, all of them are extremly pretty and loving. They have been the center of our world for a long time now. I love you all very much and hope that i can get a chance to spend time with you all as much as i did with Pihu.
11. Sonu jiji, Babloo jiji, Sangeeta bhabhi: - Three of you have been path-breakers and really strong women in your own respect. Each of these ladies have capability to not only influence you with their charisma but also have immense ability to be a strong leader. They have ensured that their home remains a model home for everyone to see. Kids being disciplined, an extremly beautiful house, execptionally managed expectations, everything. These ladies are undoubtedly are the role models for the next generations of mothers/Wife's/sister's/aunt's who have used their hard earned degree's to shape up their houses.
12. Bhuaji: - Mention itself brings a smile to my face, she has been so loving that we are ready to go to her place at anytime, and mind you, whatever be the time, you cant leave her place without a sumptious meal. One of the most beautiful lady that i have ever seen in my life she is also extremly caring. I am so happy and blessed to have someone like her in life.
13. Mamiji: - I do not have to mention the name here either, for the simple reason that when i say mamiji, it only means that i am refering to her (believe me i would easily have 10 others!!). She is the one who has the most powerful influence on us. By her simplicity and her impeccable focus towards things, she has ensured that each of her kid becomes the biggest achiever not only in the family but trust me, in the entire city. Each of her kids have achieved what most of us just dream to achieve and people close to her know, that if her kids effort were there, there was also a pillar of strength alongside. Mamiji, i have immense respect for you, just that these days with so much distances and nonsenses around, i do not get time to be with you like i used to be when i was a kid.
14. Mummy (Mother in law): - Her reference is important, i just met her about 3 years back and one thing which struck to me was her inner strength and will power. She is one lady who can easily influence you with her capabilities. No doubt Nidhi has never been off-course in her life. I owe a lot in my life to her.
15. There are several other females who had influence on me, but my write-up would not be complete without mentioning this one name, Payal Rungta, the real woman of substance, i owe atleast 70% of my achievements in career to her. A BITS graduate, fearless, street smart, focussed, and super intelligent techie girl that i have come across. Married to love of her life, Gaurav, she is now managing her house and office with equal proficiency.
After this, there have been some more who have a strong influence on my personality, Ramya (Write up on you has to wait.. :)!! ), Devi Chakraborty, Megha Gupta, Meenakshi Rungta, Kavita Satish, Sapna Gowda, Shweta Gupta, Shubhi Singh, my other Aunts, ladies in the family, few other friends etc. I have been really blessed to have come across so many shades of women in life.
One thing is hard pressed, there is no life without Women, no happiness without them and there is no future either. Please respect every women who you come across and ensure that she gets her well deserved place. Women are important and integral part of our lives, without them, our existance is in danger. So if you have a girl child, be blessed coz you will get an opportunity of a lifetime when you do the "Kanyadaan" coz there is nothing bigger than that.
1. Dr.(Mrs) Vimla Sharma, MA, Ph.D: My mom: - She holds three Gold medals, First rank in University in BA, First Rank in University in MA, and Governors Gold medal for over all First rank in University. I guess this is maximum that anyone can achieve and hence a huge motivational factor. A loving mother, a caring wife and a hugely intelligent person.
2. Mrs. Purnima Khandelwal (Rawat): - Bhabhi: - An MBA from T.A.Pai Management institute, is Director and Co-founder of a consulting company called InI Consulting in Bombay, undoubtedly the "Men" amongst "Men". Courageous, intelligent, hard working, hugely intelligent, a loving and caring mother, and most certainly someone to look upon.
3. Mrs. Pooja Dixit (Sharma): - Sister: - MA - English, MJMC, the first one to achieve "All round best" and "Cultural best" in the same year in a college which is about 35 yrs old. Held various positions before quiting everything for family. Extremly talented dancer, loving sister and a very caring mother. Hugely courageous and very professional in her approach.
4. Mrs Gunjan Khandelwal (Gupta): - Bhabhi: - IIT Kanpur graduate, worked in companies like Infosys and Sapient. She has been a true source of inspiration when it comes to the IT industry. A loving bhabhi, and a someone who gets along very well.
5. Mrs. Nidhi Kaushik: - Wife: - A B.E. graduate in Electronics, working with HP for last 6.5yrs. An avid dancer, thorough professional and someone who leads by example. Moved from J2ee to SAP without any hassle, shows her mental strength and capability.
6. Ms. Pupul Pachauri: - Neice: - Recent addition to this list, the lady has achieved a feat that is rare, she has been selected for an initiative by HCL where in she will be creating, maintaining and running a Social Organisation in the field of Animal Welfare. Vineet Nayar, Chethan Bhagat, the lady already has a growing list of achievers has her friends.
7. Naniji: - A mother of 7 kids and a wife of a very humble man, she ensured that all her kids are properly educated and do not lack discipline in life. She was the one who held together my Nanaji's house and took over the entire responsibility of his brothers and kids equally.
8. Dadiji: - A mother of 7 kids, a wife of an absolute disciplined man, extremly loving and caring mother, a beautiful daadi and a very strong lady. She is sketched in my memory like no one else. She is an extremly important part of my memories, most of the memories that i have either start from her, or end at her. I miss her dearly.
9. Pihu: - She is my neice, the one that i love the most, though i do not get chance to spend time with her, but guess our bond is strong. She loves me a lot and i love her a lot. She is one very pretty girl who has very strong pedigree, i am sure she is going to make me very proud.
10. Kuhu, jiya, hiya, bulbul, Nunnu: - Neices, all of them are extremly pretty and loving. They have been the center of our world for a long time now. I love you all very much and hope that i can get a chance to spend time with you all as much as i did with Pihu.
11. Sonu jiji, Babloo jiji, Sangeeta bhabhi: - Three of you have been path-breakers and really strong women in your own respect. Each of these ladies have capability to not only influence you with their charisma but also have immense ability to be a strong leader. They have ensured that their home remains a model home for everyone to see. Kids being disciplined, an extremly beautiful house, execptionally managed expectations, everything. These ladies are undoubtedly are the role models for the next generations of mothers/Wife's/sister's/aunt's who have used their hard earned degree's to shape up their houses.
12. Bhuaji: - Mention itself brings a smile to my face, she has been so loving that we are ready to go to her place at anytime, and mind you, whatever be the time, you cant leave her place without a sumptious meal. One of the most beautiful lady that i have ever seen in my life she is also extremly caring. I am so happy and blessed to have someone like her in life.
13. Mamiji: - I do not have to mention the name here either, for the simple reason that when i say mamiji, it only means that i am refering to her (believe me i would easily have 10 others!!). She is the one who has the most powerful influence on us. By her simplicity and her impeccable focus towards things, she has ensured that each of her kid becomes the biggest achiever not only in the family but trust me, in the entire city. Each of her kids have achieved what most of us just dream to achieve and people close to her know, that if her kids effort were there, there was also a pillar of strength alongside. Mamiji, i have immense respect for you, just that these days with so much distances and nonsenses around, i do not get time to be with you like i used to be when i was a kid.
14. Mummy (Mother in law): - Her reference is important, i just met her about 3 years back and one thing which struck to me was her inner strength and will power. She is one lady who can easily influence you with her capabilities. No doubt Nidhi has never been off-course in her life. I owe a lot in my life to her.
15. There are several other females who had influence on me, but my write-up would not be complete without mentioning this one name, Payal Rungta, the real woman of substance, i owe atleast 70% of my achievements in career to her. A BITS graduate, fearless, street smart, focussed, and super intelligent techie girl that i have come across. Married to love of her life, Gaurav, she is now managing her house and office with equal proficiency.
After this, there have been some more who have a strong influence on my personality, Ramya (Write up on you has to wait.. :)!! ), Devi Chakraborty, Megha Gupta, Meenakshi Rungta, Kavita Satish, Sapna Gowda, Shweta Gupta, Shubhi Singh, my other Aunts, ladies in the family, few other friends etc. I have been really blessed to have come across so many shades of women in life.
One thing is hard pressed, there is no life without Women, no happiness without them and there is no future either. Please respect every women who you come across and ensure that she gets her well deserved place. Women are important and integral part of our lives, without them, our existance is in danger. So if you have a girl child, be blessed coz you will get an opportunity of a lifetime when you do the "Kanyadaan" coz there is nothing bigger than that.
World Cup: Some good some bad
HERE, CRICKET WON! West Indies played Pakistan in a must-win match in 1987 and Courtney Walsh was bowling the last over. With one ball left, the tension was at fever pitch and non-striker Saleem Jaffar was backing up too far. Walsh could have run him out and won the game for West Indies, but this gentleman cricketer warned the batsman instead and walked back to his mark to bowl again, a gesture that saw his side losing the match but won him many fans for sporting behaviour.
THE FAMOUS FROG JUMP! In the 1992 clash between India and Pakistan, 'bad boy' Javed Miandad got a taste of his own medicine and got miffed at the constant appealing by Kiran More. Miandad started jumping up and down like a frog, imitating Kiran More's appeal. Pure comedy!
RIDICULOUS RAIN RULE: During the 1992 semifinal, South Africa needed 22 off 13 balls against England to reach the final in their very first World Cup. But after a brief rain delay, the target was reduced to a farcical 21 off one ball to end their hopes!
NOT A 'WINNING' SPEECH, THIS! After Pakistan won the trophy in 1992, captain Imran Khan only talked about his upcoming cancer hospital and didn't mention his teammates even once in his acceptance speech. It miffed quite a few in Pakistan
MISPLACED CONCERNS? During the 1996 World Cup, Australia and West Indies refused to travel to Sri Lanka citing security concerns even though the International Cricket Council (ICC) considered it a safe venue. Eventually, Sri Lanka were awarded both games on forfeit.
TROUBLE IN PARADISE, LITERALLY! It still remains a mystery why Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin chose to field in the 1996 semifinal against Sri Lanka. India had to pay a heavy price and with defeat looming large, the crowd at Eden Gardens disrupted the match. The match was later awarded to Sri Lanka because of the rioting crowd. Cricket lovers still remember the image of Vinod Kambli weeping uncontrollably on the field!
TECH TROUBLE: In the 1999 World Cup match against India, South African captain Hansie Cronje wore an ear-plug on the field to take instructions from coach Bob Woolmer. Later, the match referee asked Cronje to remove it.
CATCH IT, GIBBS! In a crucial game against South Africa in 1999, Steve Waugh hit the ball straight to Herschelle Gibbs who caught it initially but threw up the ball into the air in celebration before he had full control of it, and dropped it. It proved costly, as Waugh scored an unbeaten hundred and Australia went on to win the match.
GILLY'S WALK OF FAME: In the 2003 semifinal against Sri Lanka, Australian opener Adam Gilchrist decided to walk even though the umpire had ruled him not out, a decision that stunned many! Like Walsh, he too won over many fans for his behaviour.
THEY GOT THEIR MATHS WRONG!
In a must-win, rain-hit game against Sri Lanka in 2003, South African team management got their revised target wrong ( Mark Boucher was the on-field batsman) and thanks to the calculation blunder, the game ended in a tie, which saw South Africa crashing out of the tournament!
ARMBAND PROTESTS: In 2003, Zimbabwean players Henry Olonga and Andy Flower wore black armbands for their tournament opener while "mourning the death of democracy in Zimbabwe". Besides, England didn't travel to Zimbabwe and New Zealand didn't travel to Kenya because of security concerns.
'SHAME' WARNE! Champion leg-spinner Shane Warne was tested positive for a banned drug just hours before Australia's first match against Pakistan in 2003, leading to a one-year ban of the player.
A BIG TRAGEDY: After Pakistan suffered a shock defeat against Ireland in 2007, Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer was found dead in mysterious circumstances in his hotel room in Jamaica, lying in a pool of vomit. It completely shook up the cricket world.
AND THIS TIME... Even before the 2011 edition has started, Eden Gardens is in news for the wrong reasons. The India-England match has been shifted to Bangalore thanks to the delay in construction work at the venue.
Thanks TOI and Soumitra Das
THE FAMOUS FROG JUMP! In the 1992 clash between India and Pakistan, 'bad boy' Javed Miandad got a taste of his own medicine and got miffed at the constant appealing by Kiran More. Miandad started jumping up and down like a frog, imitating Kiran More's appeal. Pure comedy!
RIDICULOUS RAIN RULE: During the 1992 semifinal, South Africa needed 22 off 13 balls against England to reach the final in their very first World Cup. But after a brief rain delay, the target was reduced to a farcical 21 off one ball to end their hopes!
NOT A 'WINNING' SPEECH, THIS! After Pakistan won the trophy in 1992, captain Imran Khan only talked about his upcoming cancer hospital and didn't mention his teammates even once in his acceptance speech. It miffed quite a few in Pakistan
MISPLACED CONCERNS? During the 1996 World Cup, Australia and West Indies refused to travel to Sri Lanka citing security concerns even though the International Cricket Council (ICC) considered it a safe venue. Eventually, Sri Lanka were awarded both games on forfeit.
TROUBLE IN PARADISE, LITERALLY! It still remains a mystery why Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin chose to field in the 1996 semifinal against Sri Lanka. India had to pay a heavy price and with defeat looming large, the crowd at Eden Gardens disrupted the match. The match was later awarded to Sri Lanka because of the rioting crowd. Cricket lovers still remember the image of Vinod Kambli weeping uncontrollably on the field!
TECH TROUBLE: In the 1999 World Cup match against India, South African captain Hansie Cronje wore an ear-plug on the field to take instructions from coach Bob Woolmer. Later, the match referee asked Cronje to remove it.
CATCH IT, GIBBS! In a crucial game against South Africa in 1999, Steve Waugh hit the ball straight to Herschelle Gibbs who caught it initially but threw up the ball into the air in celebration before he had full control of it, and dropped it. It proved costly, as Waugh scored an unbeaten hundred and Australia went on to win the match.
GILLY'S WALK OF FAME: In the 2003 semifinal against Sri Lanka, Australian opener Adam Gilchrist decided to walk even though the umpire had ruled him not out, a decision that stunned many! Like Walsh, he too won over many fans for his behaviour.
THEY GOT THEIR MATHS WRONG!
In a must-win, rain-hit game against Sri Lanka in 2003, South African team management got their revised target wrong ( Mark Boucher was the on-field batsman) and thanks to the calculation blunder, the game ended in a tie, which saw South Africa crashing out of the tournament!
ARMBAND PROTESTS: In 2003, Zimbabwean players Henry Olonga and Andy Flower wore black armbands for their tournament opener while "mourning the death of democracy in Zimbabwe". Besides, England didn't travel to Zimbabwe and New Zealand didn't travel to Kenya because of security concerns.
'SHAME' WARNE! Champion leg-spinner Shane Warne was tested positive for a banned drug just hours before Australia's first match against Pakistan in 2003, leading to a one-year ban of the player.
A BIG TRAGEDY: After Pakistan suffered a shock defeat against Ireland in 2007, Pakistan coach Bob Woolmer was found dead in mysterious circumstances in his hotel room in Jamaica, lying in a pool of vomit. It completely shook up the cricket world.
AND THIS TIME... Even before the 2011 edition has started, Eden Gardens is in news for the wrong reasons. The India-England match has been shifted to Bangalore thanks to the delay in construction work at the venue.
Thanks TOI and Soumitra Das
Travelogue
I had rarely imagined this day would ever be a part of my life. Life has been on the move ever since I graduated out of my college. First it was cities on the western side of my country, then it became a constant travel between the different states on western, eastern and southern part of the country and since last 6 months, it has gone international.
I have stayed in two countries so far – USA and Mexico, and have had transits in two others namely, UK (LHR) and Germany (FRA). The travel seems to have returned to me with a vengeance.
By my basic nature I am true taurian, someone who isn’t bothered about too many things at one time. My basics tell me to be lazy and relaxed, which is only achievable if I remain at one place and not be on the run.
However, life has a different thought, fresh out of college, I had to be at different places coz I was in search of a job. So I shuffled between, Delhi, Bombay, Gurgaon, Noida, Kota (my native), Jaipur, etc before settling down in Bombay for a short duration. This ended when I came to Bangalore and settled there for a while.
Another opportunity was waiting for me to be taken up at Bombay and I moved there again. From the day I moved for my second stint to Bombay, I was rarely at a place. I shuffled between Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Orissa, Jharkhand etc. This gave me a whole different perspective of my own country and the fact that how beautiful and dangerous it is.
After I became dead tired of these constant travels across the length and breadth of the country, I decided to give myself a little rest and came back to Bangalore. Life remained seated for a long duration of 2 years. I was at ease and there wasn’t much to be bothered about. There were limited things to take care of and limited scope for things in life.
I moved again, this time to a much smaller setup in IT, and more of work. I never knew that travel is waiting for me. Project came; I took ownership and travel returned in life. India-Frankfurt-USA-Mexico-USA-Frankfurt-India-Heathrow-USA. This is the travel incurred by me in last 5 months starting Aug-10 till 1-Jan-11.
Now I do not hate travel, but I hate the tiredness it brings with it and the constant uneasiness with new people, new places, new food habits and temperatures. This adaptability is something I am yet to learn and implement in my life.
On a different note, its actually fun to be a traveler, particularly when its travel around the world. You get an opportunity to see so many new things, so many new people and such beautiful things across. I guess, thanks to being in IT that I have been able to get this in life.
I have listened to Swami Vivekannada’s speech at Parliament of Religion. He had clearly mentioned a story of a Frog from well and a frog from ocean. Guess, this travel across the world is transforming a frog of the well into a frog of the ocean, bigger, brighter and stronger perspective towards life.
I have stayed in two countries so far – USA and Mexico, and have had transits in two others namely, UK (LHR) and Germany (FRA). The travel seems to have returned to me with a vengeance.
By my basic nature I am true taurian, someone who isn’t bothered about too many things at one time. My basics tell me to be lazy and relaxed, which is only achievable if I remain at one place and not be on the run.
However, life has a different thought, fresh out of college, I had to be at different places coz I was in search of a job. So I shuffled between, Delhi, Bombay, Gurgaon, Noida, Kota (my native), Jaipur, etc before settling down in Bombay for a short duration. This ended when I came to Bangalore and settled there for a while.
Another opportunity was waiting for me to be taken up at Bombay and I moved there again. From the day I moved for my second stint to Bombay, I was rarely at a place. I shuffled between Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Orissa, Jharkhand etc. This gave me a whole different perspective of my own country and the fact that how beautiful and dangerous it is.
After I became dead tired of these constant travels across the length and breadth of the country, I decided to give myself a little rest and came back to Bangalore. Life remained seated for a long duration of 2 years. I was at ease and there wasn’t much to be bothered about. There were limited things to take care of and limited scope for things in life.
I moved again, this time to a much smaller setup in IT, and more of work. I never knew that travel is waiting for me. Project came; I took ownership and travel returned in life. India-Frankfurt-USA-Mexico-USA-Frankfurt-India-Heathrow-USA. This is the travel incurred by me in last 5 months starting Aug-10 till 1-Jan-11.
Now I do not hate travel, but I hate the tiredness it brings with it and the constant uneasiness with new people, new places, new food habits and temperatures. This adaptability is something I am yet to learn and implement in my life.
On a different note, its actually fun to be a traveler, particularly when its travel around the world. You get an opportunity to see so many new things, so many new people and such beautiful things across. I guess, thanks to being in IT that I have been able to get this in life.
I have listened to Swami Vivekannada’s speech at Parliament of Religion. He had clearly mentioned a story of a Frog from well and a frog from ocean. Guess, this travel across the world is transforming a frog of the well into a frog of the ocean, bigger, brighter and stronger perspective towards life.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
