(Step) Motherly Treatment Indeed

18th September 2011. Approx. 6:00 PM. It was a peaceful and quiet evening. Sipping chai and sinking our teeth into crispy hot pakoras, we watched the evening mist shape into clouds and kiss our window pane. A blissful moment that we wished would stay forever. But as the proverb goes, our happiness was short-lived. We had just drifted away, down the rabbit hole into a wonderland when we felt the floor beneath our feet begin to shake and the tea cups start to rattle. 

The mist enveloping the mountains
just before the first tremors were felt

For a few seconds, we couldn't gauge what was happening, was it the music next door causing the vibration? But then we saw the walls crack and we knew there was much more at play here than just music. Reflex took over and we both reached for the door simultaneously, bumping into a housekeeping staff member who was about to bang on our door. No words were required; his expression was enough to tell us that we were right. The three of us ran downstairs and out of the hotel, to join the rest as the tremors strengthened. Yes, we were caught in the earthquake that rocked Sikkim in September 2011 on a Richter scale of 6.9.

The first set of tremors probably lasted a minute or so. Honestly I cannot remember. Once the vibrations had subsided, we braced ourselves for the aftershocks. Would they unleash more terror or would they take some pity on us? We weren't disappointed. Within the next thirty minutes Gangtok experienced three more aftershocks; all we could do was hold hands and wait; hoping and praying that we had seen the last of them.

September is a lean season in Sikkim as far as Tourism is concerned. We were but the only guests at the hotel that evening, having planned to visit the northern parts of Lachung the next morning. 

It wasn't long before the electricity gave up and the whole of Gangtok was plunged into darkness. But in the midst of all the apprehension and fear that had taken over every mind, what touched ours was the hospitality the locals displayed. Despite all odds and the danger of the roof collapsing over their heads, they placed us and our needs above all.  In between the tremors, Mr. Thapa, the F&B manager walked up to us and asked what we would like to have for dinner. Yes, with the earthquake looming large on our lives, Mr. Thapa was worrying over what meal he could feed us. Despite our protests, he stayed adamant, saying that we had a long day and he couldn't see his guests go hungry, whatever the situation might me. Finally we gave in on the condition that we would have only “bread omelet”. All of us shared a meal that night. 

Post dinner, a slight tremor saw us outside again. But this time we were not alone. People were to be found everywhere, some squatting while others hunching against cars and scooters. Mothers tried to keep their children warm with blankets, while some men were busy lighting up tiny fires to chase away the chill. There was a chant in the air which had been absent earlier. We strained our ears and realized that every person out there was praying for a basic need – to keep all of us safe. The hotel invited folks in, to rest and pray. 

For safety reasons we along with the housekeeping staff slept on the ground floor. We were occupying the sole guest room on the floor and the rest along with some locals made the reception area their bedroom; including the hotel manager.  It was a long night and not a soul slept; all awake wondering every single second what was in store in the next. For the first time, we understood what uncertainty truly meant.  

A set of tremors later, the night finally decided to give way to the morning. Mother Nature seemed to have calmed down but everywhere we looked we could see the impact of her fury from the previous night. Trees had fallen, cables were dangling all over, roofs had collapsed and there were gaping holes in the walls. Our hotel too had seen its share of damage; cracks had developed across the rooms, with one gaping wide open near the entrance, silently exhibiting proof of what we had been through. 

Going to Lachung was now out of question, every road entering or exiting Gangtok was blocked by landslides. All we could do was spend our days around Gangtok city and evenings watching that mist against the hotel window pane. Quiet evenings they were, but this time they were accompanied by an eeriness that was tough to ward away. 

With Mr. Thapa and the hotel staff,
they defined hospitality for us

Mr. Thapa served us a limited menu for the next three days that we were there. Despite constraints such as a continuing power cut and restricted produce availability, he served us lip smacking meals which always comprised of dal, rotis, sabzi and rice - a complete indian meal. Come what may, he ensured we had a proper meal at all times. 

We walked around Gangtok, taking in the damage the earthquake had left behind and getting overwhelmed by the hospitality we encountered wherever we want. Yes, the roof over their heads was taken away but that did not stop a single local from extending a warm welcome to us, sharing with us whatever little was left behind and most importantly giving us a peek into what truly formed the elements of their existence. To the naked eye, their living would seem humble and their education minimal. True, they were not educated the way we were, but the knowledge they had to share surpassed ours by all measures. Despite the limited exposure to formal education, their views on the country’s political landscape, infrastructure and development was progressive. They faced threats on a daily basis, not just of natural calamities but disasters from across the border. But their inclination to stubbornly stay put with the land they called their nation was one to be proud of. We did not get to see the natural beauty this north eastern state had to offer, but the exquisiteness of its people more than made up for it.

Finally the roads to Bagdogra were cleared and we set to leave. A couple that was stranded in the landslides made it to the hotel, things had begun to fall in place. As we settled the bills, we found the figure given much smaller than what it should have been. Something seemed amiss. On rechecking each bill, we realized that there was indeed something absent – the food bill. When questioned, we were told that the hotel wouldn’t charge us for a single meal because they couldn't provide us with a choice. When we tried to argue, Mr. Thapa exclaimed “I fed you just an Omelet and bread that night, I can never forgive myself for that”. We were lost for words.

Source: Hindustan Times

Yes, we looked different from them, but that did not make them treat us differently. Yes, we had traveled miles to get there, but they did not ask for our passports to check our identity. Yes, they sympathized with what Tibetans went through but not once did they stop considering themselves as Indians. Yes, our hairstyles were different from many there, but they did not taunt nor pull daggers out at us. They treated us like family.

So why do we treat them any differently? An extremely peace loving and all inclusive community, why this continuing outcry against them? What have they done to deserve such abhorring treatment? They have always been sidelined, treated as foreigners and ridiculed at every opportunity. Why? And now, we kill one of them us? Why? They demand an anti-racism law, in their own country. Isn't that a shame on the rest of us? Yes, ever region has its own culture and distinction; does that mean we drive our fellow men and women from each state away? On what basis is this racial slur imposed on them? Who gave us the right to treat them so? And how on earth are we justified to decide their future? Doesn't all of this reflect our ignorance and inability to treat our own as an equal? Doesn't it make us feel small? It should – smaller than we can imagine. 

We left Gangtok with a heavy feeling that day. It was not the vacation we had signed up for, but it was one that we would never forget. Sikkim had taught us an important lesson. A lesson the rest of the country will probably never learn. 

When The Milk Boiled Over…

Source: philopmartin.info

What happens when a black cat crosses your path? Do you hesitate for that fraction of a second or continue as if nothing had happened? Whichever reaction it might be, I am sure the age old superstition does make its presence felt. Because like it or not, this poor four legged creature and many such beliefs have been entrenched in our subconscious minds for years together. 

It was a Friday when my maid had me stop in my tracks and stare at her with my jaws wide open. Snatching the worn out broom and mop out of my hand as I was about to throw them out, she exclaimed “Medam, aaj Shukravaar hai, aaj nahi fekte!” With glaring eyes she gave me a stare that haunted me even after she left. 

Superstitions have been an integral part of Indian culture since generations. While the logic is questioned all the time, many are said to have taken birth from a sound and scientific reasoning. Cutting nails at night is a strict no in most households, the logic behind this system stems from the lack of lighting back in the old days. Using that nail cutter in relative darkness increased your chances of cutting more than just the nail so night time could not be called auspicious for the activity now could it? Despite the abundance of lights in our houses today, this belief has continued like so many others.

A rare sighting, an eclipse attracts all for a peek whenever they make an appearance. But pregnant women in India are always disappointed. The saying goes that rays emitted during an eclipse are harmful for the fetus. Without any backing of scientific evidence, one would incline towards calling this one a myth; however I wonder how many would actually take the risk of challenging it, hmmm!

While leaving home, the person should never be asked where they are going or their work doesn't get done. Maybe it would have gotten done but now that we believe it can’t, we really cannot expect it to work can we? The same goes for another common belief, the cawing of crows. For the last thirty odd years of my existence I have craned my neck out of the window each time a crow cawed, to look out for those unexpected visitors. Each and every time, the doorbell has remained silent and the crows have earned a glare from me. 

If these aren't enough, there are more to keep us busy. Seeing an elephant is considered auspicious as it is meant to signify Lord Ganesh, if this were to be true, many of us Bangloreans would shift closer to Bannerghatta National Park without a second thought. About us, I don’t know, but real estate tycoons will surely benefit from the elephant sighting. 

Did you know? With your childhood habit of licking off your plate and the bottom of utensils you would be turning into a weatherman (woman) from the future? Doing that would mean the rain gods would bless you with their showers the day you tie the knot. Because a wet knot is difficult to “untie”, no rocket science here. However unbelievable this might seem, a dear childhood friend of mine had to endure a rather wet wedding, no prizes to guess what he did as a child! 

I don’t know about the rest of you but this one has a firm believer in me. Red underwear is meant to bring good luck. Now why would anybody not believe that? Superman wears red underwear period. I rest my case. Well err… we can ignore how he wears it though.

Even Hiccups are not ignored. How often do you hiccup? Not much? Sad, I say! Not too many people think of you. Imagine if you were Arvind Kejriwal right now, you would be hiccuping all day! 

While most superstitions deal with luck, prosperity and health, food is not one to be left behind. Having curd with sugar before an examination is meant to bring luck while a sack full of rice gets spoilt if touched by a woman during her periods. Much powers she has I say, such magic could put Harry Potter to shame.

Speaking of women and menstruation, there could be no other event ridden with superstitions as much as this. Regarded as “impure”, women who are menstruating are not allowed to enter temples and kitchens during “those days”. Pickles turn rotten by her touch, clothes she wears are polluted and the list goes on. Seems like a witch doesn't she? Definitely doesn't sound like the life giving woman that she actually is.

In all of these how can I forget Vaastu. While the directions in which each door of your house should point always depend on Vaastu; imagine eagerly approaching your future-to-be landlord to sign the rental agreement. What could that have to do with Vaastu you think? Everything.  Right from the direction in which we, the brightly eyed tenants were to seat while signing the agreement to which day we should move our luggage based on our birth star…. It was everything about Vaastu. Sigh.

They amuse; well at least most of them. Sometimes they sound downright weird. You wish you could just shake them off and move along… but some of them never let you go. Like the one about “Raahu Kaal”. That time of the day that is considered inauspicious to start anything new or do anything important. Oh, if there is one that I cannot stand it is this. Why you ask? Because I would be its target every time I made an official trip out of town. I would come home to an extremely messy and chaotic house only to be told by the “supposedly” better half that “Raahu Kaal” had been on all throughout the time I wasn't there.  Some people do know how to put superstitions to good use… don’t they?

Hoping for Hope

Life is beautiful. What with the 46” LED screens and surround sound home theatre systems we own and the snazzy gadgets that adorn our kitchens. Not to forget those premium four wheelers that we cozy ourselves into on our way to give in to the gastronomical delights that the city’s finest has to offer. 

Oh yes, life is beautiful – for you and me.

But amidst all the luxury and the cushioning we have around us, sometimes, just sometimes it becomes necessary to take a small peek outside the window and into what life truly has to offer to those other than us. Not just to make us value and appreciate what we have, but to know that we can make a difference. 

I ended 2013 with that peek; a peek that opened my eyes to the life some women in our country face each day. A peek that made me look beyond my “beautiful” world into one those women are trying to make livable...let alone beautiful. A peek into how they are rising against all odds to live a normal life, to look into the mirror and not hang their heads in shame. A peek into the lives of Devadasis who had decided to look up and move on.

Many of you might wonder who these Devadasis are. It’s not your fault if you are not aware; I blame the society that we co-exist in, the one that conveniently shields us away from anything out of the ordinary. 

Mahadevi runs a goat rearing business in Shegunshi, Belgaum, KA
Source: Milaap.org

Devadasis. As the name suggests, they are but servants of God. Young girls are “married” to the temple goddess and are expected to serve the temple through their lifetime.  What began as a religious practice generations ago is now engulfed by prostitution. Yes, you read it right. Today, the practice has been banned and termed illegal. However, young girls continue to be forced into being Devadasis in smaller towns and villages across the country.

While violating the law and pursuing abolished practices is a norm in India, what is a little known fact as far as this practice is concerned is the ordeal these women and girls are put through. More often than not, it is family members who force these hapless women into the trade. Yes, I call it a trade because it has little to do with Temples and more to do with prostitution today.  A dire living and a social stigma to carry on for life; there is really not much left for them to go by. Most get bogged down by this generosity bestowed by society. Most. But there are some who dare to defy, dare to look up with their head held high and make a choice. They choose to be a Kaplana Chawla or a Kiran Bedi in their own way, in their own right.

I took a peek into the lives of these brave women through the window called Milaap. 

In today’s world when we give up on the slightest setback, imagine these women who have only known of a life full of failures. When we turn desolate and pessimist over career moves and failed romances, imagines these women who have never known focus or love in their lives. All they have seen is lust and the commoditization of their bodies in society.

Milaap, a micro lending organization has begun an initiative called the Hope Project to wipe away the myths that surround Devadasis and help these women build their lives. To truly abolish this practice and prevent young girls from falling prey to it again.

If the grit shown by these women is not enough, their method of bringing about a change in their lives definitely is admirable. Charity and donations for finances are not words that exist in their dictionaries. They take loans, through organizations like Milaap. Loans; which they repay with full interest.

Take for example the story of Mahananda. She was married off to the temple at 12, and sold to a trader from Sangli by her Uncles in the greed for money. At the tender age of 15, Mahananda became a “Temple Prostitute”. When she was 5 months into her first pregnancy she was made to abort her child and return to her “Devadasi” duties. Only when she was able to pay off the trader did she get a chance to escape. Instead of resigning to fate, Mahananda met an activist and began her life afresh. She took up stitching and ensured her daughters don’t get caught into the trap like she did.

Many like Mahananda have vowed to make a difference to their and their children’s lives. Roopa made a new beginning with a pan and photocopy shop, Mahadevi began a goat rearing business while Housabai sells Bananas. There are many such Mahananda’s and Housabai’s across villages in India who want to stand up on their own feet and become resilient. All they need is help, our help. With loans as minimum as Rs 500, we can help change lives. This is not charity; it is what we call empowerment.

To eradicate a social stigma is no mean task, esp. in the Indian society that is built on a foundation of rigid mindsets and strict beliefs. Who better to help uproot it than us? We; the urban and educated strata of the society who have the intelligence and understanding to know the difference between right and wrong. To empower the needy and develop the nation. Because development does not only mean building nuclear weapons and infrastructure, it also means giving each individual in India the right to live with dignity, respect and in a manner they choose to.

Empowering these women would mean helping them build a beautiful life. Maybe not like the one you and I have... but one that allows their children to inherit respect, education, independence and self reliance from them and not victimization, despair, loss and shame.

****

To fund people and projects of your choice please visit The Hope Project

The Silence Of The Writer

For once Goa was in the news for all the wrong reasons. Amidst the swaying palms, sandy beaches and melting sunsets, gory news made way to the front page. News that made the scenic backdrop fade away.

Source: Jerry Pinto's page on Facebook

Eight years ago, a workshop was conducted by a group of veteran writers and editors native to this idyllic state.  Perching themselves on stools between bookshelves at a local bookstore, the Goa Writers Group (GWG) took birth. These monthly meets were an adaptation from the structure of New York based Two Bridges Writers Group where an original piece of work would be circulated prior to the meeting; at the meet the writers would offer a critique.  The group grew in size as well as shape. Along with critiquing literary offerings, workshops, writing challenges, presentations, debates and seminars got added to the list. The writers’ clan grew and even started playing host to renowned authors such as Orhan Pamuk and Amitav Ghosh. Sharing a camaraderie that was adding depth to the literary world, this group was setting a perfect example for fellow writers to follow. What more could one want? - Definitely not the scandal that brought about its sudden demise. 

Yes, a scandal. “Literati” and scandals are not words one usually finds in the same sentence yet there they were. A set of individuals strung together by their creativity and a “refined” outlook towards society engulfed in a despicable and undignified episode. An episode that replaces every ounce of respect with nothing but shame. 

So what ruined GWG? - One Writer’s weakness and his inability to control his fantasies. The moderator of the online mail group could not stop himself from harassing the women writers. As hard as it might seem to believe; he was caught condescending/bullying the writers and sending them abusive and sexually suggestive chat messages. 

When the harassed women got together, the jigsaw pieces fell in place, revealing an extremely horrific image. When questioned the group was abruptly dissolved and a new one formed with the same name, deleting all old records/archives that could point fingers at anyone. The women did not join. One would think the matter ended here; a harassment issue buried deep enough not to be raked again. It probably would have, had it not been for the Tejpal news that made headlines recently. 

Source: Jerry Pinto's Facebook Page

A journalist took a stand against the harassment she suffered at the hands of Tejpal, just like those women writers did from GWG. However there was one glaring difference as far as the latter were concerned. One particular male writer, a member of GWG and a close friend of the moderator who had ignored their request for support was now expressing solidarity to the Tehelka journalist. Jerry Pinto was blasted from all directions for his alleged hypocrisy. While in the GWG harassment case he had stood by his friend, the moderator, saying strong women cannot be harassed, here he was sympathizing with a victim going through a similar patch. In response to the questioning, Jerry did what most do – delete the messages and “unfriend” the women writers who questioned him.  His reaction was natural said he; however impulsive it might have seemed coming from a supposedly creative and professional writer.

Explanations were given and stood by, but it did nothing to wipe off the duplicity. It did however strengthen a feeling of cynicism as far as faith in mankind was concerned. This was the same person who had spoken some golden words on his Facebook page when Nirbhaya was brutally raped and abused in December 2012. Words that moved hearts and questioned the respect men have for women. Lines that made one believe that all was not wrong with the world; there were people like Jerry who did not let it down.  

Hypocrisy and avoiding confrontation is as much a crime as the harassment; coming from the “educated” and “intellectual” strata of society it further questions the action. Jerry is not the only one; Shoma Choudhury’s responses and actions in Tejpal’s case were equally disappointing.  Many such stories might be lying buried across workplaces and social gatherings alike…. Cans of worms waiting to strew open in the least expected places. One wonders if it is the absence of a conscience that leads to such a drastic disregard for dignity and respect.

If individuals who earn their credibility through their outlook and perspective towards life are capable of such hypocrisy; can one expect objective behavior from a bus driver or the office boy? None of the heinous crimes are justified, they never will be. However one does need to acknowledge the reality as well – crime is not limited to the act of abuse nor is it limited to the under privileged sections of society. Unjustified mindsets and a lack of conscience prevail in the “refined and elite” classes as well.

Regardless of the field of work, the education or apparent culture and development; trust and faith have become misnomers in the existing society. Yes, whether the masses like it or not this ambiguity is here to stay; because when people you look up to belie all expectations, that confidence dies a slow death; never to come back to life.

Live And Let Love

Beauty no longer lies in the eyes of the beholder; definitely not with Section 377 around. Maybe it would have, had the section not been revived again.

In 2009, the Delhi High Court on behalf of the Indian judicial system gave a verdict that emphasized one of the most fundamental rights of a human being – that to live and love. A group that is minor to all was being denied equal protection from the law and had their dignity abused.  Such behavior was a clear violation of articles 21, 14 and 15 of the constitution– rules that advocate privacy and dignity. Adhering to that very constitution, Section 377 was sent to the gallows – A moment of pride for the law, a moment of triumph for the Indian citizen. India had finally begun to progress in the truest sense of the word. It was a step into the future.

The LGBT Pride Flag
Source: Wikipedia

But then, the country decided to live up to its reputation – of doing more wrong than it could do right. A black flag soared high on December 11^th 2013 as far as the general public was concerned. Justice Singhvi on his last day in office declared a verdict that brought section 377 back into action; criminalizing gay sex. India seemed to have gone back into the medieval times and civil liberties were thrown out of the window. The country was stunned and faith in the system had wavered.

Section 377 IPC’s definition is based on penalizing sexual acts that are “against the law of nature”. A case that was closed in 2009 was bought back to life by certain organizations and individuals who challenged the verdict on grounds such as “protecting cultural values of Indian society”,  “mental distress caused by the LGBT community” and ironically “welfare of the citizen, their rights, functioning of the state and the interest of the public at large”. (Read more here)

“Laws of nature” – a wonderful guise to hide behind; an even more effective guinea pig to pin the blame on. How does one define what is against the law of nature? How does one arrive at what invades the privacy and dignity of an individual?

Societies across the world have certain notions about how things should work; of what is natural and what is not. These beliefs have been developed over centuries and entrenched into the mind over generations. Different mindsets are what make the world, but the ability to live and let live is what sets it apart. This is precisely what is missing in the Indian context. Why do we shun something or someone that is different from what we do? From the way we live? More importantly, from the way we love?Why is it so tough to accept that their behaviour is natural to them; to the way they were built? What right do we have to cast people off just because they make a choice to live differently? Yes, isn’t it about the choices we make? Is that not a fundamental right of every individual? Then why not give them what belongs to them; their basic human rights?

Religious groups and organizations have long been against what they believe to be an act against nature. The fact that The Vatican (Pope) believes the sexuality of an individual is their own concern and as long as the person is good at heart, the church need not be concerned, is conveniently ignored.. Even more worthy of mention is the existence of LGBT behaviour in Hindu Mythology. Shikhandi, Brihannala and Mitra and Varuna (depicted in Vedic literature as Gods portraying affection and intimate friendship between males) are classic examples of such behaviour. But again these are ignored by the very groups that propagate religion and its philosophies. None of it seems to matter as far as these groups are concerned.

The views of these groups are listened to. Quietly and politely. The highest court of justice, that had seen no wrong in live-in relationships and children born out of marriage, was what mattered.

And the court stunned the world; yes not just poor Indians. By taking a decision that set back the judicial system by centuries, they stripped off the LGBT community of not only their human rights but also their identity. The decision forces those affected by it to once again live their life in the shadows and be subject to harassment, exploitation, cruelty and humiliation. Speaking of harassment, imagine what this equips the already merciless “law enforcement” representatives with.  This decision will only encourage untoward behaviour, questioning, bribery… the list can go on…only to sink lower and lower.

Amidst the uproar, there are two more disturbing facts about the Supreme Court’s verdict.

One – rendering the adherence of a High Court to the constitution as invalid; by doing so the SC has impeded the power of a High Court to take decisions as per the constitution of the country. What example does that set? Doesn’t it belittle the decision making power of the courts in question?
 

Two –Indian politicians and the self proclaimed god men that are in abundance in this country need but an excuse to exercise their influence over the hapless masses. What the verdict does is give implicit encouragement to those corrupt politicians who slam the topic and sham “Babas” who get another reason to spread their philosophy and cure.

These details do nothing to revive faith; all they do is further weaken it.

Section 377 IPC was written in 1860 by the British; life has evolved since then and so has lifestyle. Somewhere we thought we had moved on as well, but this verdict tells us what we did not want to hear; that we are frozen in time. The Brits have long since undone the rule in the UK but we stay put on it.

The section of society that has been affected by this ruling might be in the minority.In everyday life majority might prevail over them, but nothing ever should come in the way when it comes to their fundamental rights. This is one aspect where majority and minority are equal; and should always be.

There is a ray of hope; the Parliament. If the Legislature decides on deleting the outdated section 377 from the IPC, it can reverse the verdict. On one hand the deciding body is filled with politicians who have only looked down upon the LGBT and on the other you have those who have openly claimed the verdict to be flawed. The Congress has spoken about bringing an ordinance in the verdict but in whose favour the scale tips, is yet to be seen. However one thing is crystal clear, if the judgment stays, all it will do is blotch India’s reputation and international standing for good.

This is the country where rapes, harassment, religious impositions and corruption are the order of the day. This is also the country that awards Nelson Mandela the “Bharat Ratna” and declares a state mourning for him – for a man who fought for his people and their civil rights. Boastful of its diversity in caste, creed and religion, this is the country that consistently contradicts itself and denies its people of their basic rights; making them wonder if they truly belong.
 

A concoction of confusion, inconsistencies and a mixed definition of ideologies and beliefs, this is a country that has one leg firmly rooted in the past and the other trying to step into the future...rather unconvincingly. 

An Active India… A Stronger India

There was a time when children played out in the open without any qualms of falling sick. They danced in the rains and splashed mud all around, building castles on the beach and playing “gilli-danda” or “lagori” on the streets. Childhood memories were made of laughter and mischief and not of common colds and flus. That was the time of our grandpas and grandmas, a time when immunity was at its high, not to be dithered by weather changes, mosquitoes and flies.

That was a time that is now steadily disappearing into the past; never to come back again.

As newer generations take birth, childhood is getting redefined. Evenings are made of iPad games and television shows while Cycling, Cricket and Football are being left behind. A slight drizzle or winds that howl now and then are reason enough for children to stay back at home glued to their screens. Add to it a healthy dose of fries and smileys and evenings turn from good to perfect for them. Happy and gay this armchair childhood might make them feel, but something will always stay amiss; something that is adding to the lines on every parent’s forehead today – Immunity and resistance to illnesses.

The slightest weather change or play in the rain leads to sneezes followed by high temperatures. Cold and Flu’s are on the rise; so are typhoid, hand, foot and mouth and the likes. If pollution gets added to this unhealthy mix consider your fate cemented for the downfall. Viruses and bacteria are growing in abundance, laughing away as their attacks get more vicious than ever. All we can do is sit back helplessly and watch as our younger generation fails to garner the immunity they require to keep these organisms at bay.

There are many factors contributing to this; most pertinent being a decreasing interest in outdoor activities and increasing effect of fast food and an imbalanced diet.

Healthier diet: pray what can that mean?

In earlier times, as soon as a child learnt to eat, they were introduced to fruits, nuts and vegetables along with the healthy doses of protein. Each meal was homemade and while sweets and savouries were loved as much, the wholesomeness in the meal was never forgotten. Given the hectic lifestyles we have today, time has become a precious commodity and the minutes spent in one’s kitchen a rare phenomenon. The helps and cooks do their bit, but the times when hot fresh food would be cooked in our kitchens for every meal are slowly on the decline. Come weekends and it is time to unwind and relax thus making eating out more convenient than at home. Evening snacks are about frozen “ready to fry” foods that never fail to sound yummy to the taste buds. Instant noodles were controlled in our diets by our parents but our love for them has ensured they stay on our children’s plate more often than they did on ours. Pizzas and burgers today count among favourite foods making them the easier option to satisfy the child’s hunger when in need. Pre-cooked and frozen foods, excessive intake of fried delicacies and increased consumption of outside meals are taking a toll on our immunity systems; imagine what they would do to that of a child’s? These need not be completely cut out, but a balance needs to be struck with nutritious food to boost immunity.

What a balanced diet ensures is that the right nutrients and supplements are provided to a child at the right time – at childhood. A child’s metabolism is extremely high and the diet can become effective only if it is channelized in the right direction – through activity and physical fitness.

Outdoor activities: why are they so important?

Early exposure to outdoor sports like our ancestors had, results in developing a robust immune system. The key word here being Early. In olden days getting wet in the monsoons while playing a game of “gully cricket” might have led to a couple of sneezes early on, but the child sprang up and went back to the game as if nothing had happened. Small bruises and cuts they might have got, bleed they would have but the child emerged with a body physically stronger. What made this possible? – The adaptability of the human body to weather and grime due to frequent exposure. After all it is well known that the physiology of a child is designed to recover faster and be more involved with their surroundings. Yes, as unusual as it might sound, if children get used to those rain drops and that sudden chill, chances are they will fall sick lesser. Last but not the least outdoor activities will imply a more active childhood developing into a habit of an active adult life. A habit for activity would in turn mean lesser tendency to lead a sedentary lifestyle in your later life. As a corollary that would mean minimal dependency on vitamin supplements to boost nutrition levels.

In addition to activity and diet, what lowers immunity is constant dependency on antibiotics and analgesics to fight ailments. They do achieve their objective and rid your body of the illness however it comes at a cost – your immunity. The stronger the antibiotic, the harsher it is on your immune system. Regaining back the lost immunity becomes a herculean task and as any doctor would put it; a healthy diet comes to the rescue. If the problem is addressed at its roots, strong medicines will not be required to address it and cause any further damage in the process.

Agility and Adaptability are two human abilities that begin to slow down with age. These characteristics are at their prime during childhood making it all the more crucial to give them the necessary boost at that age.

Immunity can always be injected through supplements however its longevity will depend on the continuous intake of those pills and syrups. If ingrained into the lifestyle right from the beginning, it will ensure a natural immune system to be developed within the body.

Recent surveys only add to the urgency to bring about a change. A grim outlook is not only limited to India but the rest of the globe as well. Today’s children are not as active and fit as their parents used to be and it is anything but a compliment to the latter. It cannot get any scarier than this.

It is a dire state of affairs but the grey cloud comes with a silver lining. Brands such as Dabur are doing their bit to help fortify the immune system from the core, in a natural (Ayurvedic) way as opposed to fighting through antibiotics... esp. with launching flavoured chyawanprash’s which can attract both young and the elder alike. As they continue to do their bit for the betterment of society, the first step to ensuring immunity must begin at home.

Parents need to give priority to their child’s health by taking a few lessons from the previous generations and in fact from their own. Guaranteeing a balanced diet and encouraging a mentally as well as physically active childhood will be the key to inculcate a robust immune system in the generations to come.

It is time to begin that journey now rather than pushing it off to later because ensuring a brighter tomorrow for our children is in nobody’s but our hands.

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This post is written for Dabur Chyawanprash contest hosted by Indiblogger in association with Dabur

The Tall, Dark and Ugly

Coutesy: www.webdesignhot.com

I recently wrote a casual blog post on the popularity Nina Davuluri has gained in India post winning her crown. My blog was a short piece ranting out my thoughts over a quick cup of coffee; however a few light hearted comments that it generated left me brooding all day.

Nina wouldn’t have won the crown here in India…we are the land of the fair and lovely’s… sometimes wheatish does not make the cut either . If these comments were not enough, this Firstpost article and a certain quote from Susan Runkle’s observations left me feeling all the more depressed and saddened.

What is it with fairness and us Indians? Despite being descendants of the brown race, this penchant for the white skin has been around for ages together. With the advent of education and exposure one would expect the mindset to change but if anything it seems to have only worsened. This stagnation of the mind is not surprising given the fact that India only hosts 27.8% of its population in urban areas; India even today is predominantly made up of rural towns and villages. Given the extent of education coverage this unfortunately implies higher rates of illiteracy coupled with rigid mindsets and orthodox beliefs… or so I would think to be the reason behind this craze; but when you really take a look you realize the picture is equally hazy in the seemingly educated strata of our population.

Lighter “fairer” skin translates into a higher societal status, glamour, charisma and a suave and refined persona as far as the average Indian goes; No, it does not stop there.This image is not just limited to the world of showbiz and entertainment. This mindset more often than not carries over to everyday life at the workplace, for marriage alliances and goodness knows where else.

Years ago a senior manager from my team was interviewing a candidate and had asked me to sit in as an observer. The lady walked in dressed in bright colours and some obvious makeup. The interview lasted twenty uncomfortable minutes with the observer driving the conversation. Once she left, I didn’t even have to ask to know the outcome; she was rejected. Oh did I mention she was dark skinned?

The Indian marriage market is driven by looks too. Behaviour, upbringing, family and all other niceties are secondary. What matters most to most prospective mother-in-laws is how fair the potential daughter in law is; that their son might not fit the bill really does not matter. If the girl turns out to be an Aishwarya Rai or Kareena Kapoor look-alike then she has definitely arrived! Mind you, this is a fairly common trait in the so called “urban” areas; we are not talking rural here.

We meet a stranger at a friend’s party or bump into someone at the neighborhood Kirana store, without speaking to the person we form an opinion based on their appearance. The damage is already done there; after all first impressions are usually the last impressions right?

I have been watching their ads since I was a kid some thirty odd years ago. The same concept, the same objective…nothing has changed- Fair & Lovely and Emami have been doing roaring business over the years. I still remember a maid we had back then; she would insist that Fair & Lovely made her look fair just like those “girls on TV”. I failed to see the difference then; I find it tough to see it now either.

Today many more fairness brands have jumped onto the bandwagon and all seem to have carved a spot for themselves in what I am convinced is a multi-million (if not billion) dollar industry. And why should they not? They deserve each and every paisa they make I tell you. Indians never tire of fairness brands... if one does not bring the desired outcome they will try another and then another and then another...the tryst with fairness is never ending. They would be fools not to leverage such a lucrative market. Add to it the rural consumer base and you have your annual revenues met.

Finally that all so important factor that ups the glam quotient for fairness- the Indian entertainment industry. Now tell me, how many dark skinned popular actors do we know in Bollywood? A few yes, mostly in the “Art” scheme of things; but when it comes to mainstream cinema, fairness rules all over. These very actors then take it onto themselves to endorse fairness brands. So what message are we spreading out here?

In India beauty runs skin deep literally.

The masses; the brand ambassadors and the brands; all share a symbiotic relationship. It seems to be a tenacious vicious circle- wonder if there is any end to it.

As cities turn cosmopolitan and exposure to the world yonder increases; an optimistic hope takes birth.. One that believes this helpless divide will thin out eventually.

Meanwhile the Fair & Lovely’s and Emami’s will continue to make hay while the sun shines.

Banoongi mai… Miss America!

Courtesy: http://www.silive.com

Miss India must be jealous. After all, her days of limelight hardly lasted a couple of newsprint columns and a few slots in the evening news. She definitely did not make it to everyone’s Facebook pages. Thankfully no racial slurs made their way to her but wait! Hold on a minute. Says who those comments mean any harm? Especially in Apna Des? Remember Big Brother a few years ago? All the racism did was bounce the then Miss Shetty back onto Page 3.

Why should things be any different now? India has already begun her sympathy vote. We have always been partial in our treatment towards our “Firang betas and betis" haven’t we? Err... it does depend on how glamorous the achievement mind you (Click here to know what I mean). I say, why should anything be different now? The stage is setting up, the newspapers and social media are testimony to this. Felicitations must be being debated right now; I am sure our Netas will not be letting us down. They never do right?

Miss India must be worried as well. Wonder if she is having sleepless nights right now. All those advertising campaigns, modeling offers and Bollywood scripts. ..Will they come her way now? Only time can tell.

For now scoot over Miss India, make way... Miss America is here!