The Birbal Story

The Birbal Story

Akbar, the Great, one of the prominent Mughal emperors who ruled India, went hunting one day in the summer, accompanied by a group of attendants. They searched the entire forest but did not find a single animal. He traveled many miles on horseback. Akbar and his team were exhausted due to extreme fatigue and thirst. If only we had some water! Their tongues were parched and they searched everywhere for water. "Let's go to the nearest village," Akbar said. When they went some distance, they saw a boy walking carrying a small bag. Akbar asked the boy: "We are very thirsty; where can we get some water?" "There is a pond near my house. "I will show you the way there," replied the boy. The boy was very eager to show the way to the horsemen. A man put the boy on his horse. The horses galloped away with loud hoofs. They quickly reached the pond.

The boy fetched water from the pool and gave it to everyone. When he poured water for Akbar with a smile, the emperor asked the boy: "What is your name?" "What is your name?" - The boy turned and asked a question. Akbar was shocked to hear this unexpected question. The emotion in his mind was also reflected on his face. The emperor's face became more serious. "Do you know who I am?" he asked in a rather high-pitched voice. The boy laughed without hesitation and asked another question. "Do you know the Brahmin priest in this village?" "I don't know," said Akbar. "Yes, I want to tell you the answer." The boy replied confidently.

The attendants waited anxiously to see what was about to happen. Suddenly, Akbar's face became clear like the cloudless sky. He laughed; took off his ring and gave it to the child; Then he said: "Let this be for giving us water and speaking as a lime. That ring will speak who I am." While the boy was looking at the ring back and forth, Akbar and his team got on the horse. On that ring studded with a sparkling ruby ​​stone was written: "Akbar"! The boy stared at Emperor Akbar in wonder. When you grow old you should come to my palace in Delhi. Show that ring and you can enter it. Saying this, Akbar left the place driving the horse and then the team of horses. Then the boy remembered something. He said he had not told him his name and ran back. "My name is Mahesh Das.......Mahesh Das "Who will listen? No one heard the boy shouting over the sound of horses' hooves!

When Mahesh was sixteen, he came to Delhi to meet Emperor Akbar. He approached the guard standing at the palace gate. He told the story of Akbar coming to his village years back. The guards looked at him in disdain (since he was not very well dressed) and asked why they should let him in. He showed them the ring that was given to him by the emperor as proof. One of the guards realized that this individual was important to the emperor and gave him permission to enter, based on one condition: the young man would share half of what he received from the emperor with the guard. Mahesh Das promised to do so and was given access to the court of Emperor Akbar.

The palace was a wonderful sight for Mahesh. He walked through the vast and beautiful palace and reached Akbar's audience. Mahesh sat on a chair and saw Akbar sitting on a golden throne. Akbar asked the audience in front: "Which is the most beautiful flower in the world?" Many people said many names. Mahesh said loudly, “ Cotton is the best flower in my opinion. It has no smell.” The crowd in unison laughed. When the noise was contained, Akbar asked: "What is the reason for saying cotton? Can you explain?" Mahesh stood up again and said. "O Lord! From cotton, the famous fabrics of your country are woven. Muslin and voile yield it. They are as delicate as the gentle breeze and beautiful as the rainbow. I prefer cotton to any other flower." Akbar liked the explanation. Akbar asked. "What is your name?" Where do you come from?" "My name is Mahesh. You came to my village seven years ago while hunting. I fetched water from the village pool for your thirsty group to drink. You gave me a ring that day. You said that I should come here when I am old." Akbar laughed and said, "I remember, and happy that you have come. You can stay in the palace as long as you wish." Akbar remembered the rash boy of that day.  And benevolent King asked him if anything else in particular he wanted.

 The young man thought a while and asked the emperor for fifty lashes of the whip. The emperor was amazed but he knew that Mahesh Das was a very astute young man and asked him the reason for his wish. Mahesh Das revealed to the emperor the deal that he had made with the guard outside the fort. The emperor was thoroughly amused and angry at the same time. He awarded fifty lashes to the guard for his impertinence and his habit of bullying people. He rewarded Mahesh Das by including him in his court and giving him all the comforts he could desire. He also bestowed on him the name of Birbal.

 Birbal, an Indian folk hero noted for his wit and cleverness, was one of the nine gems of Akbar. To this day, this duo is remembered by everyone, especially children through the fancy and witty tales.

Robin Sharma's " Who Will Cry When You Die? "

                                                             

Who Will Cry When You Die?"  

Robin Sharma, Author of the book, is a world-renowned leadership expert, author, and speaker. Sharma started a career as a litigation lawyer, but he quit that high-stress, high-paying lifestyle at age 25 because he felt unfulfilled. However, it wasn’t until the release of his second book, "The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari", a spiritual guide in the form of a parable, that Sharma gained recognition as a self-improvement guru.

The book is full of preachings about "the right way to lead a good life" presented in a list-like manner rather than the thoughts weaved in a storyline or put philosophically to make an interesting read. If leading a fulfilling life was as simple as following a checklist the world wouldn't be distressed. Contemplating your life for half the time that you would need to finish the book would be much more fruitful. Everything explained in the book is true, except that there is not a single 'thing to do' mentioned throughout the book that one still needs to do or was at least aware of.

The book would have more global appeal, especially to people with a very hectic lifestyle and a mechanical routine. In Who Will Cry When You Die? Robin Sharma demands you ask yourself if, on your deathbed, you’ll look back on life and feel you got the most out of it. If your answer to this is “no,” Sharma provides 101 pieces of advice to help you build a life you’ll feel good about. These range from broad perspective shifts to specific actionable ones all to give you greater control over your life so you can make it one worth living.

Here are some lessons from the book, a collection of insights and wisdom aimed at helping readers live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

1. Live with Purpose: Sharma emphasizes living with a sense of purpose. Knowing your purpose gives direction and meaning to your life and motivates you to positively impact the world

2. Practice Gratitude: Cultivating gratitude for the blessings in your life can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment. Sharma encourages readers to express gratitude daily and appreciate the beauty and abundance around them.

3. Take Risks: Taking risks and stepping out of your comfort zone is essential for personal growth and success. Sharma advocates for embracing challenges and seizing opportunities for growth and development.

4. Be Authentic: Authenticity is about being true to yourself and aligning with your values and beliefs. Sharma encourages readers to embrace their uniqueness and live authentically, without trying to please others or conform to societal expectations.

5. Live in the Present Moment: The present moment is all we have, and learning to live fully in the present can lead to greater peace and happiness. Sharma advocates for mindfulness and being fully engaged in each moment of life.

6. Serve Others: Serving others and making a positive difference in the lives of others brings deep fulfillment and joy. Sharma encourages readers to look for opportunities to serve and contribute to the well-being of others.

7. Take Care of Your Health: Physical, mental, and emotional well-being are essential for a fulfilling life. Sharma emphasizes the importance of taking care of your health through regular exercise, proper nutrition, and self-care practices.

8. Keep Learning: Lifelong learning is key to personal growth and development. Sharma encourages readers to be curious, seek knowledge, and continuously strive to improve themselves.

9. Practice Forgiveness: Holding onto grudges and resentment only weighs you down. Sharma advocates for the practice of forgiveness as a way to release negative emotions and find peace within yourself.

10. Live with Passion: Living with passion and enthusiasm makes life more vibrant and exciting. Sharma encourages readers to pursue their passions, follow their dreams, and live with zest and energy.

Conclusion:

Having said the above,  most of us may ponder over what is next.

Now and then, we come across motivational speeches and writings either from social media or self-help books about various subjects. It has become a lucrative business. Though most of them try to involve us to release some “ feel good’” factors, for the time being, it ceases after some time. Mostly the subject is “ success “ and for the speaker or author, it lies in money, power, prestige, or anything else he chooses.  Is not ”success”  subjective? You may be successful in one thing and a loser in another. Many a dream is sacrificed to pursue a purposeful, prioritized arena. Success is about winning the most important aspect of life.

Most of the content of the motivators is stereotypical norms which in the long run become a burden because the things that excite us today may not move us tomorrow. For them, it is a trick to create a problem and make money. Motivational content mostly ignores the probabilities and privileges of anybody’s success. Perhaps what we need is a society that accepts us as it is and cares about catching us when we fall.

No matter what hopeless situation you are in now, there will be a fire in the belly when you realize you are made for bigger things. A fire of self-belief. When that happens, no force can put out that fire. 

😐

Festival Bonus

 

                                           Festival Bonus

Mohan was on his regular evening walk to Tower Park. There was an unusually huge crowd in front of the Ration shop. No surprise, it is the month of January and Pongal festival days are ahead starting next week onwards.

The shop distributes the extra quota of rice, sugar, and other cereals at controlled rates, to the BPL card holders during the Pongal celebration. In addition, they supply two varieties of clothes- dhoti and saree wares in Superfine and Fine qualities. Fine quality, one can see thro' whole of Tamilnadu whereas  Superfine is like a Chinese fishing net, you can see the whole of India, somebody said jokingly,  because it is so thin and refined.

The Ration shops are under the Block Co-operative Society. The Shop owner is responsible for maintaining records and has to submit monthly reports to the president on the stock of rice, sugar, and other items and the period's profit. The present President was removed by the Board due to corruption charges. A  retired Major in the area was made President at a shareholders' meeting and the idea was to control manipulation and black marketing of the products.

 
Once settled, rice, wheat, sugar, and other cosmetic items started moving to Major’s house from the Ration shop at lean hours or under the moonlight. Once the stock had become surplus, his house became a parallel society godown and a few friendly merchants took advantage by clearing the stock at a profitable price to them and the Major. 

As days passed, the Ration shop owners joined to discuss their margin loss despite giving the share to Major and made a complaint to the Board. The Board after due deliberation removed the President. Next came a more experienced retired Manager working in a Supermarket chain as the New President to clear the mess and improve the distribution system. He assured a positive change to the consumers but discreetly announced that he would take only half of the commission being paid to the ex-president.

While returning from the walk another day, Mohan saw there was a huge crowd shouting and howling at the Shop owner, and surprisingly the President was among them asking the reason for their agitation suddenly. One of the agitated complained about not issuing the superfine clothes to them and told the shop owner was hiding the clothes in the Almirah. And on a query from the President, the shop owner stated that it was wrong and he had only Fine clothes. Further, the President went inside and checked, and to his surprise, he noticed the super fine clothes were wrapped in separate bundles behind Fine quality clothes.

The public complaint was true and he came out and announced: "See folks, what you were saying is correct. Let me tell you from my experience. Fine clothes will last longer and the prices are also lower. Whoever wants the Superfine variety can buy them at a higher price.  Anyhow, the shop owner who lied and created a problem for you all is transferred to the Kattumedu Shop with immediate effect and he will leave tomorrow ".

There was no more demand for Superfine clothes and the President was seen off by departing crowd with  Zindabad and Jai ho sooner. 

The same day evening the shop owner met the President at his home and thanked him profusely for arranging his transfer to his hometown so quickly and handed over a bundle containing five Superfine dhoties!.

And roared, " Happy Pongal ..Saar !".

 

😏

The Mess and the Minister

 

The Mess and the Minister

This story has a background of more than 20 years. The value of Rs 10 for that period will cost Rs 100 now. The fall and damage of currency!

We had a Food Minister who enjoyed food, especially so if it was non-vegetarian. Rightly so, he was healthy in his body as well as mentally. No doubt he is one of the finest ministers of that day. His itinerary had the habit of entering the Minister’s chamber on time after a good breakfast and visiting the Pillaiyar Kovil on the way regularly and back home for the special lunch made ready by his beloved wife.

There happened a break to this routine one day when CM had called for an urgent meeting and hence was held up in the Secretariat. He was a little upset about his schedule change, but summoned his PS, Menon, to enquire about a good non-veg lunch to be served nearby.

‘’ Yes sir, Nair Military Mess is nearby and they will deliver us too, on time". said the PS.

The telephone message from the Minister’s office was a bonanza or lottery to the Owner of the Mess, his happiness knew no bounds. The bearer was rushed to deliver a full course of meals to the Secretariate chamber with add-ons in double the quantity usually served. Keeping aside other issues for the ensuing meeting, he fell upon the Mess menu and attacked the same with due respect. The Minister asked his PS in confidence the cost of the food and he got the answer at a fifty percent discounted price. So joyful, he placed the next order for the evening Tea with tasteful items like Cutlet, Masala Dosa, Dal Vada, and Jalebis with a good quantity of Coffee. He was charged only half the rate of the lunch menu. 

In the evening, once the official meetings were over, the Minister issued a new order, that henceforth his food menu for lunch and evening tea, etc were awarded to Nair Military Mess and whenever he had to attend the morning meetings breakfast also would be served by them. He will travel less during office hours and to the outskirts to reduce fuel costs.

The local news bulletin announced through Aakashvani in the evening, was a bolt from the blue. The custodian of Nair Mess fell unconscious and when regained thought, if he withdrew the discounts on the Menu, sure action would follow even by an order to close the residential Mess for running it as a Restuarant with of forgery to avoid taxes. His niece, an economics graduate added fuel with an advise stating if he continued the service, it would take only three months at the most to close the shop. 

Nair and his family were in a dilemma and after a prolonged discussion took advice from the local MLA of the opposition party. His commission was fixed and his plan was to rake up the five-year-old case against our Minister on the purchase of sugar from UP State at a higher price violating all tender conditions known infamously as “ Sugar Gate”. It worked precisely and within a month, the CM forced his Food Minister to tender his resignation until he was cleared of all charges.

Without knowing the back door scenario, the Minister was waiting for his lunch as usual and for the delay in the arrival of lunch. Neither Menon, his PS nor Orderly were to be seen around. But it was then he was shocked to see the note on his table from Nair Mess which read:

‘‘We do not serve subsidized food to ex-ministers, and no carrier had left to the Secretariate today as per rules of the Mess”.

It was not known when the Minister regained his senses!

😏

Co -existence

 

                                Co-existence

Kumuda is employed as a UDC in the Revenue Division and her husband Manimaran is with the Police Supdt 's office. as an Inspector. A house where both the civil and criminal powers were well balanced. They have two children, Ritu and Ravi, and live in a modest house in a posh area of the city.

Office clients or their agents visit them on weekends or holidays to obtain favors. Though costly, transactions with pleasure are often considered at home, and either of them are happy.

The routine is almost the same for Kumuda. Get up early, enter the kitchen add mixed powders proportionately, and give a name to it before packing for the children and Maran and herself to their respective places. If time permits, she goes for a wash, rushes to nearby Pillaiyar Kovil, and submits to him with small demands. To buy a coconut will be a luxury as an offering which anyway will be handed over back half split by the Pujari, though the next day it will add spice to lunch, with chutney,  pachadi, kichadi, or Fish curry immersed in coconut milk! 

When one such day she casually happened to read the column on’ Cooking Styles’  in  Women’s Day Magazine and laughed to read that in the olden days, women spent more than 15 hours in the kitchen and the taste of the food remained for a fortnight and more. Why not possible for the present-day generation, thought Kumuda since they have a Piped gas connection and four burner stove. It requires only 3 hours!  

The next day, she announced to her family that she may not go to the office. DM may be angry but not bothered, the Deputy is on her side. She packed bread, butter, and jam as a standby and boarded the children on the school bus and her husband on his route bus. Later she took an auto and went to market,  collected fresh vegetables, and returned in the same vehicle. In no time she changed to a cooking girls’ attire from a working women’s dress and fired all the burners.

When the feast was ready with all the items, she had her bath, and took full meals and the time was already 12.30. Now there should be no further delay to reach the office before lunch break. She transhipped the special menu to a deck carrier and kept the plantain leaf across the carrier. Dressed up to a working girl, locked the house, and was ready on the road to catch the regular auto of Murugan. Without waiting much in the hot sun and pitying the poor folk sweating, reached the office by Lunch break.

‘‘Oh Kumuda Mam, what is special in the carrier and the bag? Are there any confidential papers? Any promotion list for us? “ 

She cut short the subordinates from their questions and rushed to DM’s Chamber. On seeing her with the baggage, Mishra, a handsome, bachelor officer is curious to know what is in the carrier?  ‘Sir, it is my birthday today, and have brought the Special lunch for you.” said Kumuda without waiting for his next word and prying eyes. Kumuda cleared the desk, sending the files to the record room. She spread the plantain leaf and served the dishes one by one slowly smiling. DM was so pleased to see the spread and aura of the food, that no words came out while enjoying the food with both hands and eyes!

No desserts, Kumuda?’ came the voice from the officer.

Kumuda immersed herself in the thoughts of the man in front of her suddenly woke up and took a piece of jaggery from beneath her pajama pocket and gave it to him, saying ‘Dessert… sweet sir”. 

'Was it all prepared by you, It's all too good. Oh you took leave today, isn’t it ?', said DM.

‘No sir, I was about to tell you….”

‘Don’t tell anything. Not to take leave also. Bring me on all working days a carrier like this..and err..know add-ons too.

Kumuda was too happy to hear what he wanted and ready to pass on the cover the next day to DM. Some of the Clients are waiting to come home to honor their commitments with more requests and she was too glad to serve them and her citizen that way!

😘

 

 

Money matters

                                              Money Matters

It is almost a decade and a half since  Madhav Menon and  Madhavi Amma settled in “Madhavi Nilayam “, the ancestral house endowed in her name in God's own country.  Nair had many years of service in a very senior position at different locations in the country and agreed to the wishes of his wife to transport himself to the rural background of Kerala.

  After a heavy morning breakfast, he had nothing else to do, except wait for the next course of the middle-class lunch getting ready in the kitchen with the combined efforts of  Kalyani, the at-home maid under the supervision of  Madhavi Amma. 

There were materials to read on the table, local and English News journals, magazines in the vernacular of special interest to the lady of the house in particular, spicy and juicy. She was deprived of this luxury when he was in service in Cities and god-forsaken remote locations. Out of the bunch he took  ‘India Today’  and saw an article by Dr. Paranjpai on Money matters. It must be good, thought Menon.  He writes beautifully without cliches. Even if not, why bother?  

If you think about it in Vedantic terms, money is nothing. It is for the haves, an instrument to exchange, bargain, and flourish. For the have-nots a piece of paper with beautifully carved pictures on either side.

Sundry thoughts looming large over them, he looked far to the compound and saw Kunjan seriously around the plantain at his odd jobs. Forgot that some cash was required by evening to pay for his labor, thought Menon and rushed him to the Bank for currency.  

 ‘Yes Sir, today being Saturday, they work up to 2 pm only for money transactions’, Kunjan said. While handing over the Signed  Cheque for Rs 2000/-, Menon is appreciative of his general knowledge. He sped away in no time to the Bank. The Bank Branch mainly deals in gold loans and is smarter than the World Bank, having an H.O. in Tamil Nadu. 

Already Lunch announcement call came a few times from inside the Dining room. Without waiting Menon finished the two-course lunch in the company of Madhavi Amma and had chewed his Pan combo, a habit cultivated long ago.

 By this time came the rich man Kunjan with Cash in hand. And handed over new notes of Rs.500 three each, Rs 200 two no.s, and two lottery tickets of Rs100 each, scratching his head for acceptance.

‘Who asked you to take Lottery tickets, or is it a counterfeit’ questioned Menon. 

‘Tickets? Where from? It’s all new Notes. It has come in the Newspaper too". Kunjan said.  'Don’t talk about newspapers. You could have taken one more 500. There is no box or border or Gandhi in these notes, but only colors. Ask them to give these notes to Gold loan customers.

Kunjan couldn’t but laugh at Menon and pitied who was so knowledgeable and had foreign degrees in Economics and all that, but didn’t utter a word.

Okay, OK go now. You should give original notes in case unable to buy something later. Come back soon in the afternoon without wasting time for having spent a lot in the Bank. 

Kalyani came in between smiling and handed over a carrier and plate containing lunch to Kunjan. They have cultivated a special relationship known to Amma and Menon.

Why haven’t you joined the Comrades, Kunjan asked Menon half-wittingly. 

‘ Not necessary sir,  I will collect my quota, kept near the side room, along with wage in the evening before leaving and it is economically more viable.’ was Kunjan’s repartee.

😏

The ‘foreign hand’

 

The ‘foreign hand’

The ‘foreign hand' bogey was not new to us. One heard of the foreign hand during the last few years of Mrs Indira Gandhi's Prime Ministership in the 1980s. In several public speeches and political meetings, the powerful first lady raised the specter of the dark foreign forces trying to destabilize the country. Rajiv Gandhi, who rode the sympathy wave generated by the assassination of his mother and Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi, in 1984, also frequently talked of the ‘invisible' foreign hand, trying to impede the development of India. Without private TV channels, the messages carried by the print media and the state-run Doordarshan and radio on these dark and invisible forces were quite powerful.

Perhaps it was during the time of the Gupta kings, that several editors corrected the typos in the Puranic epics. Anyone can write and add anything like history. Those who have gone before can correct what was written by self-correctors.
 
In the epic Ramayana, we hear the story of Kaikeyi saving King Dasaratha during the war against Asuras. When the chariot's axle was loosened and about to collapse, she put her right hand in it, thus saving the King. As an expression of his joy and love, the King granted her two boons, which she chose to use at an appropriate time. However, in the end, it did not help her. Is not the Kaikeyi’s act shrewd in mystery? Dasaratha in his dream saw the beautiful and most loved Kaikeyi taking the form of Manathra, the hunch-backed woman extending her “Hand” to his throat choking and feeling unconscious.

Sri Rama has been away for fourteen years, on a detour of the land and Lanka, and returned to be crowned with all pomp and popularity. Soon Sita was sent to the forests again. Was it not the same beloved Sita absolved of all impurities by the Fire test in Lanka in the presence of all? Again, on flimsy grounds and with rumors of washermen she was banished to the forests and fetch for herself!  Did the foreign hand play there too?

The involvement of outsiders in the Mahabharata story can be traced back to Gandhari and her brother Sakuni. The Mahabharata narrative has been attributed to the participation of external parties, particularly Gandhari and her brother Sakuni. Their primary objective was to inflict punishment on Bhishma, while also seeking to gain control over Haryana and Punjab, to annex them with Gandhara, and rule over an expansive kingdom. Notably, Gandhari, who had blinded herself, was not only responsible for rendering King Dritarashtra physically blind but also mentally incapacitated. Furthermore, Sakuni's strategy to engage Dharmaputra in a game of dice was intended to bring about the downfall of the Kurus.

Have you ever considered the fact that Gandhari, is a woman with a heart full of emotions and feelings? She is a character that shouldn't be judged by her actions but rather by the circumstances that led her to make those choices. Let's take a moment to reflect on her story and understand the depth of her character and interests too. 

After hearing the advice of Sage Vyasa, Vidura, his minister, and Bharata, Dristarashtra asked his wife and queen Gandhari if the war was necessary. She burst out, untying the knot in her eyes, and said, "Are you human and a king? Don't you know that half the kingdom is claimed by Pandavas? Do you want the other half to go as well, leaving my brother Sakuni empty-handed?"

Silence was the answer from the King and he lamented to himself: The Astro charts suggested the name Suyodhana to his heir and son but the unknown hands thrust on him to be known as Duryodana. And he was sure of the inevitable war and the ruin of his kingdom. Why didn't God make him deaf but only blind?

😞

( P.s:  Only fictional imagination and does not contribute to the idea in any way )

The Libraries and the River

 

The Libraries and the River 

In the course of human history, libraries have served as repositories to safeguard the essential elements of civilization.

Libraries are establishments created to safeguard written materials, such as records, legends, and literature. They serve as a repository of the history, intellectual activity, discoveries, and innovative ideas of a culture over time. In the Western world, the first libraries were collections of literature, commentaries, records, and speculations on how the world worked. Many of these institutions also promoted scientific investigation, new ideas, and innovative methods of understanding the world. Libraries are establishments created to safeguard written materials, such as records, legends, and literature. They serve as a repository of the history, intellectual activity, discoveries, and innovative ideas of a culture over time. In the Western world, the first libraries were collections of literature, commentaries, records, and speculations on how the world worked. Many of these institutions also promoted scientific investigation, new ideas, and innovative methods of understanding the world.

India is known to be the birthplace of one of the earliest civilizations in the world. The Indian civilization was shaped by intellectual inquiry and philosophical thinking. Archeological and literary evidence suggests that writing and reading of manuscripts were common practices in ancient India from the 4th century B.C. to the 6th century A.D. This led to the development of a collection of manuscripts in important centers of learning. One of the most notable libraries of this period was Nalanda University's library in Bihar, which functioned for over 800 years until the 12th century and boasted a student body of more than 1,000. Other significant academic libraries of that period included Vikramsila, Odantapuri, Somapuri, Jaggadal, Mithila, Vallabhi, Kanheri, and more.

In 1193 AD, Nalanda University was attacked by Bakhtiyar Khilji, a general who served under Qutubuddin Aibak. This attack was more severe than previous ones, and it had a devastating impact on the university. As a result, Nalanda lost its status as a major center of learning.

During a period in history, there was a lot of activity in South India. It was known as the Sangam age, and there was a tradition about the libraries in that period. Thanjavur, a city in South India, has been renowned for over ten centuries as a great center of art, culture, and literature. The Cholas, Nayaks, and Marathas - successive generations - have all contributed to and enriched the city's cultural greatness. The Brahadeswar Temple and the magnificent Palace are some of the main attractions of Thanjavur, but the Sarasvati Mahal Library is also well-known throughout the world. The Sarasvati Mahal Library is one of the few medieval libraries that still exist today. It is a treasure house of manuscripts formed during the Nayak Kingdom in Thanjavur (1535-1675) and developed by the Maratha Kings (1676-1855). Raja Serfoji II (1798-1832), one of the Maratha Kings, was an eminent scholar in many branches of learning. He took special steps for the enrichment of the Library and it is now a living monument for our culture, reflecting the glory of Raja Serfoji II. It is a fitting tribute to the great collector Serfoji. Since 1918, the Library has been named the Thanjavur Maharaja Serfoji’s Sarasvati Mahal Library. It has more than 60,000 palm leaf records and is one of the oldest in Asia.

According to the national constitution adopted in 1950, public libraries are the responsibility of Indian states. However, not all states have taken advantage of their authority to establish public libraries. In 2007, the National Knowledge Commission (NKC) issued wide-ranging recommendations for the country's libraries, which are gradually being put into practice.

Outside, the world picture:

Very little information exists about the earliest libraries, and most of them haven't survived in any form. Some of the written works they contained deteriorated because they had been recorded on perishable surfaces. Some libraries were destroyed by conquerors, while others fell into disuse when no one was left who could read the material.

In ancient times, there were two libraries in Egypt - one in Amarna during the fourteenth century B.C. and another in Thebes. Unfortunately, nothing remains of these libraries today. The most significant library of the ancient world was established in Alexandria, a city founded in 332 B.C. by Alexander the Great. The library was a part of a learning institution called the Alexandria Museum, which was established by the rulers of Egypt in the third century B.C. The purpose of the museum was to promote education and scientific research, and the library was created to support these efforts.

The Library of Alexandria, which is known worldwide for its vast collection of knowledge, was unfortunately destroyed by fire. Although some people believe that the city of Alexandria was set up in Egypt as an extension of Emperor Alexander's conquests, the library became fully operational during the reign of his successor, Ptolemy II, also known as the Philadelphus. From 255 BC to 246 BC, the library grew to become a magnificent collection of world knowledge, containing an estimated 400,000 scrolls at its peak. However, during the time of the Roman Emperor Julius Caesar in 48 BC, a devastating fire broke out, losing countless invaluable works of literature and knowledge. It is believed that the library was not destroyed in the fire and that some parts survived. Nonetheless, Alexander's library vanished from the pages of history during the third century's religious power struggles and wars.

There is an interesting story behind the name of Rio de Janeiro, which means “January River” in Portuguese. It was named so by Gaspar de Lemos in 1502, who mistook the Guanabara Bay for a river. Although this story has become popular, historians later disputed it. In the 16th century, the word “Rio” was used interchangeably for “river” and “bay” in Portuguese, leading to confusion. However, the name Rio de Janeiro was never changed.

Rio de Janeiro became the capital of Brazil in 1763 and remained so for two centuries, despite being located thousands of kilometers away from the country's center. In 1808, the Portuguese Royal Family fled to Brazil to escape Napoleon’s invasion and brought with them their possessions, including the Royal Library. The library, which contained about 60,000 books, became the largest library in South America and the seventh largest in the world. When Brazil gained independence from Portugal in 1822, Rio de Janeiro continued to serve as the country’s capital until 1960.

The preservation of works of literature and history in ancient libraries served as a foundation for our knowledge of vanished cultures.

Siddhartha

 

                        Siddhartha - when one hundred years have passed.

It is a rare novel in the world of literature. Even after 100 years, the novel by Hermann Hesse  (1877-1962 ) shakes the reader as a deep reading experience. Siddhartha brings the readers to the absolute truth that life is a journey everyone's life is different and the experience of another cannot be transferred. 

The novel Siddhartha was published in 1922. It continues to influence readers all over the world even after 100 years. Regardless, we see in Siddhartha the journey of man from childhood to adolescence, from youth to old age, the paths he takes, the answers he tries to find, the changing perspectives on the journey, and the goal.

It is not the knowledge that someone else has understood or told that satisfies a seeker of truth, but the truth that he obtains through his own experience. Finding this truth is his goal. It is a journey. Every journey has a path. What is that path? This is the thought that the author carries through the writing of each character. Siddhartha discovers that he remains poor in spirit despite having everything.

*"As the son of a Brahmin, Siddhartha enjoys comfort and privilege while sequestered in his home village. However, as he grows older, his heart is moved by a burning desire to acquire wisdom and new experiences. Telling his father his intentions, Siddhartha and his childhood friend, Govinda, leave the safety of home to join the Samanas, a group of wandering ascetics.

As Hermann Hesse’s novel unfolds, we follow Siddhartha in his search for meaning and truth in a world of sorrow and suffering. Drawing on both Hindu and Buddhist teachings, Siddhartha expertly explores the tension between the doctrinal dictates of organized religion and the inner promptings of the soul. As Siddhartha grows older, a fundamental truth gradually becomes apparent both to him and to us: there is no single path to self-growth, no one formula for how to live life. Hesse challenges our ideas of what it means to lead a spiritual life, to strive after, and to achieve meaningful self-growth through blind adherence to a religion, philosophy, or indeed any system of belief.

We should, rather, seek to seize hold of the reality of each moment, which is always new, alive, and forever changing. Hesse uses the potent symbol of a river to convey this sense of vibrancy and flux. The particular brilliance of this novel is how its profound message is delivered through prose that flows as naturally and shimmeringly as the surface of the river beside which Siddhartha spends the final years of his life."

(*source: Britannica - Christopher Gregory )

Siddhartha leads readers to the truth that life is a constant stream of joyous moments rather than despair.

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Hermann Hesse, born on July 2, 1877, in Calw, Germany, was a renowned German novelist and poet. He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1946. The main theme of his work focuses on the individual's struggle to break free from the established norms of society and discover their true spirit and identity.

When Siddhartha was initially published in German, it failed to gain much recognition. However, when it was released in English in 1951, it was highly embraced by young readers who were in pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. As of its hundredth anniversary in 2022, it has sold over four million copies in the United States alone.

A START-UP STORY

  

  A START-UP STORY

                 

"All happy families are alike, but each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way." is a famous quote by Leo Tolstoy.

Our family belongs to the first category and we are a happy family. I am Rama, the wife of my husband Ravi, and we have an only son named Raghupati. Raghupati has always followed a unique path that very few people have taken, and we admire his wisdom. Despite having a Master's degree in Commerce, he chose to venture into a start-up unrelated to his studies. We are astonished to see the remarkable growth his start-up has achieved in no time.

His raw material is the secret of his client. Don’t you think everybody keeps their secrets and never discloses at any cost? Raghu has the Dealership in secrets and it is his business! His clients are from varied fields. In the beginning, it was parents who wished to know the details of their proposed alliance of their ward and he charged very nominal fees and sometimes no fees at all. In the beginning, it was parents who wished to get the details of their proposed alliance of their ward and he charged very nominal or no fees at all. Senior police officials are helpless to get no clue in much-publicized murder cases, media persons are in search of scoop on a juicy political issue, Film producers to get a theme competitive to show his enemy in the field, Known writers want to include certain murky secret to excel in his plot.  And not the least a Politician who needs to checkmate his rival of his own or opposition party member are Raghu’s favourites. He has become a dealer of secrets by buying at a cost and doubles the same as a seller.

"He has established an office on the outskirts of the city, away from the hustle and bustle. The office is well-maintained and equipped with all the latest technology, including uniformed security personnel and recording rooms equipped with hidden cameras. Additionally, there are two or three secure rooms dedicated to safeguarding confidential records with utmost security."

Raghu is known to be a go-to person for many clients, including celebrities, who wish to buy or sell secrets. According to him, in our society, nothing holds as much value as secrets. Recently, Zypher Systems paid one lakh rupees to acquire information about a candidate running for an election who had an affair with a person from a reputed family. The news was bought from reliable sources. After two days, it was sold for three lakhs to the opposition party candidate. His mother questioned him, "Aren't you ashamed of this deal, let alone morality or logic in this case?"

Raghu laughed at her and explained that he was merely a broker in the deal and had reservations about it. He felt that the parties involved should be ashamed of their actions and reactions. In business, sellers often have only one goal - to sell and make money quickly, while buyers have many options and consider several factors beyond just the price. Although buyers also need money, it is not their only priority."Some people strive to win, while others crave popularity. Then some seek revenge against their enemies or play it safe. Everyone here holds secrets. Consider this, where are the opportunities for secrecy limited? Is it in matters of birth, death, love, sex, or money?"

"My son exploits his clients' vulnerabilities to gain an advantage. While this may work in individual cases, it can have disastrous consequences if it becomes widespread in society. Rama suggested that her son close his shop as they had already made enough money. However, he countered by asking what would happen to those who relied on him."I am wondering if our donations to temples and orphanages are substantial enough to make a significant impact on people's lives. Although my spouse and I agree with our child's reasoning, we cannot help but feel that his gift of sin has resulted in immense wealth and success."

She couldn't control herself and couldn't understand why men kept so many secrets. Let everything come to light and let his nudity be displayed openly.

"When Ravi returned home from work today, he was wearing a peculiar smile on his face. He told me about a middle-aged woman who had visited him earlier that day and given him a package. The package belonged to her husband, who had passed away a few months ago due to cancer. The woman explained that she trusted Ravi more than anyone else to look after the package and ensure that its contents were safe. And that she might not live much longer. She did not need any money. Her daughter abroad suggested the idea of giving this package to him. The package consisted of a set of love letters that the man's mother had sent to the woman's husband before they got married. The husband had written down his responses to each letter but never sent them. The woman had decided not to read any of these letters, as she believed that it was not right to invade someone else's privacy. The couple were not only bound together as husband and wife but were also good friends who trusted each other till the end.

 Raghu offered a fake smile as he handed over a packet to Rama. "Zhypher Systems Start-up was opened just for you," he said. "Don't worry Mom, no one else has seen a single line in this world except for the two of you." Rama received the packet with folded hands and opened it to find a folded paper with his beautiful signature. She looked at the packet with tears in her eyes and thought it was a symbol of sadness that needed aromatic ointment applied to it.

"Hey Dealer, why didn't you sell these letters to your dad for a better price?" Rama playfully asked her son, knowing fully well that she had discussed these letters and their relationship, with Ravi much before they got married.

“With a smile, Raghu retorted, "Mom, Dad already paid me back. Didn't he give you the money and me !

 😏

 

Condolence

 

 

                               Condolence

It was a busy day. CEO is visiting the Regional office next week specially to review the new Project the company obtained against stiff competition.

Last week end too, could not go home due to pressure in the office, Radhika told to herself. Somehow want to complete the assignments given by Friday afternoon and catch the late night train to reach home early morning. Radhika could not take calls from Ramesh who is on an official tour to Mumbai and expected to join her by Friday evening. As usual, her husband was particular to receive the return call which she  got missed over the schedules at office desk. Mother in law’s call which is seldom and unusual too was also disconnected before answering. Anyhow her conversation is mainly thro’ his son only and was a bit worried for the urgency in calling to her office.

It was just when reached back from office to the Quarter’s and freshened up, remembered and read the message from Jt. Secreatary of RWA.  “ Dear members, our esteemed Resident at E 1010 and Plus Point owner Mr. Dhanapalan  passed away early hours at KMG Hospital. A condolence meeting will be held at the Club House as scheduled. May his soul rest in peace.!

 It was a stunning and shocking news. Is it that Mother in law too wanted to convey and Ramesh was calling me repeatedly. What about Dhanya and their Son. What will happen and who will take over their business. He appeared to be quite healthy and even attending the sports events briskly a month ago. Ramesh was his class mate and a thick friend and how will he be able to accept the sad news. Dhanya and Dhanapalan  is  known for their loving, helping nature in the society and takes part in all activities voluntarily.  They were more liked by Mother in law, because they always lovingly supplemented to her requests for provisions or essential items soon , as both of us are away from home at workplaces and available only on weekends and that too irregular off late.  Mind  was crowded with many issues at hand, but had to wait until Friday  to catch the train on time.

Though no plans made in advance worked to perfection, she wanted to meet Dhanya and if possible to spend some time to console and her son who is also faraway studying for his Masters. Luckily the train was on time, and when woke up after a disturbed sleep, only half an hour was left to alight. Not waiting much for, got into an Auto from the station and reached in no time to her Apartment. 

Mother in law opened the door, and without waiting for a breath, complained to tell that Ramesh’s flight was delayed and that he may not come this week. And that her consultation with Doctor is overdue and blood tests to be carried out today itself before meeting the Doctor. The maid Shanti is absent for the last three days without any notice. There was no mention of Dhanapalan’s demise or Dhanya.  Is it that she deliberately avoiding the news for not attending the call to office !

She knew that Ramesh will not come and the flight delay was only a cover to avoid the condolence meet. He is afraid of attending the funerals and rituals since long. After completing the morning chores, and cooked  for lunch, Radhika was ready stepping out to meet Dhanya at her home. Mother in law was at the door and made a comment; “ Don’t you know that it is Saturday and nobody goes on this day for condolence, specially when seniors are alive at his home”. Though lived for more than three decades with Ramesh’s father of  a different caste, she has no qualms to quote of  rituals or traditions.

It is better to keep peace at home than moving out to meet Dhanya, thought Radhika, already tired with no rest for the last so many days. It was when another calamity appeared with no notice in the form of Ramesh’s uncle and family of three.  Now, she had no choice than to curse the day and her fate. Sunday was a day of rest and of small mercies, and luckily the guests at home left   as they have come , without waiting for lunch.

Radhika with no hurry made up her mind to meet Dhanya at their Plus Point-mini super market, generally open on Sundays also. When reached there it was total disappointment to see the shop is closed and  she felt bad with different emotions. And when reached back home, with no remorse Ramesh and his mother was watching an old movie, happily to her surprise, 

Radhika’s next visit  to home was after three weeks, with an added holiday. It is more than a month after Dhanapalan passed away. Will it be proper  to meet Dhanya after such a delay. It will not be correct also if not met her atleast now. The RWA office boy whom she met last time told that they all left for their ancestral home immediately after the funeral rites and that is why Radhika could not meet them in the Shop , last time.

And today, Oh God, she reached in front of Plus Point and saw Dhanya talking to some customer and transacting at the cash counter. How easily she is transformed to the new situation, though looked lifeless and sad. Dhanya's eyes met her  surprised, and Radhika felt so bad , words not coming out and mumbled to say Sugar 2 kg and Lux Deluxe 5. Dhanya handed over the packs and extended her hand with the bill and balance amount looking askance at the blue sky far away ! 

An after thought prompted Radhika  to tell her to contact for any help, with words not coming out, but the reply from opposite side was a deep silence. Returning with the packets in hand Radhika felt unexplainable emotions on herself of sadness, anger or piety .    Who is the loser, Dhanya or herself ?

And the victor is again loneliness !

 😔