Sunday Thoughts

Well Done Tamilnadu

2009-05-16T13:58:00.000-07:00

The mandate registered in Tamilnadu 2009 Parliament elections is flawless and decisive. It is one of the very rarest and healthy verdicts in last 20 years in Tamilnadu electoral space which I have been keenly watching. The election wave, anti – incumbency factor and electoral arithmetic (which played pivotal role in TN since 1998) have been pushed to cold storage in this election.

The development schemes (Infrastructure, creation of jobs, industrial development etc) implemented by DMK government have been much appreciated in this election and populist measures (Farmers Loan waiving, free schemes, etc) carried out by DMK also worked in favor. We can’t ignore the accreditation, the DMK and its leader Mr.Karunanidhi got for its ideological moves (Enabling all caste people to become temple priests, Announcement of Pongal as Tamil New year, etc). Overall, the ruling DMK has got its overwhelming endorsement for its good governance in the last three years in TN.

The most heartening outcome in this election is the defeat of Congress bigwigs like Mani Shankar, Thangabalu, EVKS Elangovan and the narrow escape for Chidambaram for their irresponsible and reckless behavior in the Eelam issue. It alarmed the red signal for Tamilnadu Congress and taught them the lesson that they cant just carried away by showing their blind eye when it comes to issues related to Tamil cause. Congress must understand the significance of local sensitiveness and should remember that they are accountable for it.

More accolades for Tamilnadu electorates for dumping the PMK in all constituencies for their betrayal and unfaithfulness. Mr.Ramadass should realize that the people are not so insane to acknowledge his opportunistic political games in every other election. After tasting the first defeat in 11 years, it is the high time for the PMK to introspect its political miscalculations for its own survival.

The voters in Viruthunagar made Mr.Vaiko to bite the dust and ousted his party from the Tamilnadu political arena. After taking the asylum in Poes garden, no one is ready to entrust his vociferous Eelam support. By compromising his principles in unruly ways, Mr.Vaikos reputation got pulverized in very short time.

Even after fencing the Eelam Sword in her whirlwind election campaign, Ms.Jayalalitha miserably failed to reap the benefits. You cannot simply win the election by blaming and blabbering about the ruling party in the campaign, after prolonged hibernation in the Kodanadu estate. Ms.Jayalalitha should understand that in democracy she has the job to do even if she is not in power.

The most significant achievement of the election is the recognition of Mr.Thirumavalavan and his party. I have lot of respect on Mr.Thirumavalavan for his unrelenting and unassailable stand when it comes to principles. DMK must express its gratitude to VCK and its cadres without whom the triumph in northern districts is the distant possibility.

The hero of this election is Mr.Karunanidhi and his political sagaciousness. Mr. Karunanidhi has balanced the ideology, development and populist schemes in correct proportion and conquered the elections. Young and prospering leaders must learn from his vast political experience and follow his recipe for success. In my opinion Mr.Karunanidhi is playing the very savvy and prudent politics in the last 5 years and drafting huge electoral victories. He understood the common man and he lent his deaf ears towards the highly educated idiots who are bluffing in the national televisions about him and DMK.

The common man is the penultimate judge to vouch for development and punish for being unaccountable towards Eelam issue. This election is the eye opener for all politicians across Tamilnadu. Being the staunch supporter of DMK, I am happier now than I was in 1996 and 2004 when DMK+ swept the elections and once again my heartily congratulations to Tamilnadu Electorates.

Interestingly poised

2006-04-15T15:27:00.000-07:00

The poll process in Tamilnadu is officially set in motion on Thursday (April 13th) with the start of filing nominations. The leaders are ferociously campaigning for their own party candidates as well as for the alliance party candidates, energizing the party cadres with their political speeches and mesmerizing the voters by their poll promises.

Unlike other elections, the role of media in depicting the election fever and exposing the election mood in Tamilnadu looks overdosed. It is astonishing to witness the soaring pre poll surveys though the pollster predictions are successfully biting the dust in Indian electoral space. It is still incredible to understand the sample size and methodology of these surveys in such a populous country.

The Hindu -CNN-IBN Poll conducted by the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies (CSDS) predicts the too close election in the history of Tamilnadu. The margins between the two major alliances are within the margin of error of the survey. The poll was conducted between April 1 and 7 before the DMK alliance started their political campaign and in the week when ADMK has kick started its campaign which obviously gives an edge to the ruling ADMK.

The significance of the poll is substantially weak as 30 % of the voters are in decisive and had not made up their mind. As the poll preciously pointed out, the concentration DMK-PMK combine in Northern pockets of Tamilnadu may fetch more of seats even with less swing in percentage of votes. In spite of the accuracy of this poll, this poll clearly indicates that there is no sweep in Tamilnadu and the election is interesting poised.

The desperation prevailing in both the ADMK and DMK camps is immense to capture the power and it looks bizarre when considering the 1996 and 2001 elections. The unruly scenes and revolt from the party cadres with respect to candidate selection is high and visible across all party lines. The election has so far seen the frequent change of announced candidates which is unusual in Tamilnadu elections.

The dramatic turnaround in the popularity of ADMK and wide acceptance of Ms.J.Jayalaitha after the last parliament election reported by the media does not seems to be tangible at all. Except for the Tsunami relief, the Government has only indulged in the rolling back the stopped welfare schemes and introduces the same old schemes with new names. Even if the Tsunami relief work has to be taken into consideration, it will affect only 15 to 20 constituencies in Tamilnadu.

If the previous elections voting patterns are taken for analysis, the point is very evident that the arithmetic is playing a vital role in deciding the election victory in Tamilnadu than the performance of the existing Governments. The DMK combine is arithmetically well ahead of ADMK alliance. With inclusion of MDMK and DPI, the ADMK is saved from facing the complete wipe out like 2004 election.

As the sufferings from the misrule of ADMK are still afresh in people’s mind, the DPA has the advantage with arithmetic numbers, colourful poll promises and the historical crowd gathering in the tour path of Mr.Karunanithi. With all permutations and combinations and without any last moment surprise, the DMK has an edge over ADMK.

An Interesting Book

2006-04-09T06:02:00.000-07:00

In the midst of the busy political readings on dailies these days, I found one interesting book titled “FUZZY AND NEUTROSOPHIC ANALYSIS OF PERIYAR’S VIEWS ON UNTOUCHABILITY” by Dr. W.B.Vasantha Kandasamy when I was searching in Google.

The book is the collective work of W. B. Vasantha Kandasamy, Florentin Smarandache and K. Kandasamy. Dr.W.B.Vasantha Kandasamy is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematics, Indian Institute of Technology, Chennai. Dr.Florentin Smarandache is an Associate Professor of Mathematics at the University of New Mexico in USA. Dr. K. Kandasamy is a staunch Periyarist. He worked as a guest Professor in the Tamil Department of the University of Madras.

The preface of the book starts with “Day in and day out we take pride in claiming that India has a 5000 year old civilization. But the way Dalits and those suppressed are being treated by the people who wield power and authority speaks volumes for the degradations of our moral structure and civilized standards” by our beloved Ex President Mr.K.R.Narayanan.

In this book the authors have analyzed the diverse manifestations of untouchability and the caste-system of Hinduism using Fuzzy and Neutrosophic theory. The authors have appropriately chosen Thandhai Periyar to study the untouchability who is a relentless crusader and social revolutionary who vociferously campaigned against untouchability and called for the annihilation of the caste system.

The authors used the basic Fuzzy and Neutrosophic tools in the analysis of the social evil of Untouchability. Since the notion of caste is based on the mind, they found it appropriate to use Fuzzy and Neutrosophic theory. The authors utilized the Fuzzy
Directed Graphs and Neutrosophic Directed Graphs of these Fuzzy and Neutrosophic models and presented the observations drawn from the mathematical results based on the Fuzzy and Neutrosophic analysis.

The study of this kind is innovative and it is done for the first time in the world. The authors intellectually incorporated the mathematical tools to study this sociological problem as they wanted to perform a scientific study of this system of oppression. The authors dedicated this book to Thandhai Periyar who devoted his entire life to work for the rights of the subjugated people and they felt proud to render this work to the great leader as their life time duty.

This book is the great work of highly qualified and educated people which has the clear scientific reasoning and presentation. It is heart warming to know that the authors choose Periyar who wished scientific development in every corner of the human life. This book is magnificent dedication to the illustrious leader who is fondly referred as ‘Arrivu Aassan’.

Soniaji stands tall

2006-03-25T22:31:00.000-08:00

By marrying Soniaji, Mr.Rajiv Gandhi has done his best thing for the country. Though Mrs.Indira Gandhi had been criticized for her controversial political moves, but she should be congratulated for her decision in accepting Soniaji as her daughter in law. India is fortunate to have the person like Madam Sonia in Indian politics.

It is obvious to anyone without an infinitesimal doubt in mind that Soniaji revived Congress party, resurrected new blood to the party and restored the past glory of the Congress in India. One should not forget that she has rewritten the history of Congress and made the party understand the true meaning of Social Justice.

The BJP members made loud and persistent outcry over her foreign origin when Soniaji entered into the political arena in 1998 after prolonged compulsion from Congress leaders to take the leadership of the Congress. By her unique way of approach she silenced the ugly noise by winning the hearts of crores and crores of people.

As decency and ethics has completely faded away from current political scenario, she reinstated the decency and ethics in the Indian politics by not making any angry or ugly remarks against her detractors. Even when persons like Ms.Jayalaitha questioned her loyalty to his husband (‘Pathibakthi’) during the 2004 elections campaign, which is absolute nonsense and ridiculous, Soniaji never indulged in any war of words with her.

She revolutionized the Congress ideology by giving the adequate of importance to Social Justice in the 1998 parliament election manifesto, which was never the case in Congress History. She is the one and only person in Congress history who has her plans focused on social justice and work accordingly.

Even after winning the clear mandate and unanimous choice of Prime Minister, she is not greedy over the post and made her statement crystal clear that she is in politics to serve the people not to occupy any post. She is showing her utter selflessness even in the same politics where the pseudo politicians like Ms.Sushma and Ms.Uma are carrying out their ignominious political stunts against her.

Soniaji has touched the new altitudes in Indian politics by resigning her MP post and chairperson of the National Advisory Council when the office of profit issue starts clouding the politics. As Hindu editorial correctly pointed out that Sonia Gandhi has, for the second time, turned apprehension into widespread applause.

As a person and as a politician Soniaji becomes the role model of Indian politicians and standing tall in maintaining the decorum in politics. Soniaji has not only got honored and acclaimed because of Nehru family; Nehru family got honored and acclaimed because of the reputation of Soniaji.

Congrats, Sonia Madam.

Can Thirumavalavan make the difference?

2006-03-04T06:24:00.000-08:00

The unfeigned efforts taken by Mr.Ramadass to include the Dalit Panthers in Democratic Progressive Alliance ended in vain as the leader of the DPA expressed his inability to accommodate the Panthers. This situation necessitated Mr.Thol.Thirumavalavan to take a different stand in this assembly election for its political survival.

Mr.Thiruma concluded the alliance and seat sharing business in a flash of time without any perturbation. He didn’t require any persistent negotiation or continuous sittings, which the other alliance partners (MDMK, PMK, CPI and CPI (M)) in DPA are undergoing with DMK to conclude the electoral pact with ADMK. The agreement was hassle free with the nine winnable seats for his party.

He was not successful in his attempts to capitalize the idea of floating the Third Front along with PMK before forging this alliance with ADMK. The justification which Mr.Thiruma quoting for the alliance is passable as it is the high time for his party to get the recognition of the Election Commission. The same justification was given by both PMK and MDMK when they aligned with ADMK in 1998 parliament election.

When analyzing the alliance of DPI with ADMK, two factors needs to be considered. The first one of course the electoral benefits which ADMK getting out of Mr.Thiruma and the second one is the threat to the social harmony put in place in the recent years by Mr.Ramadass and Mr.Thirumavalavan in North Tamilnadu.

The facts and figures from the last two elections (2001 Assembly election and 2004 Parliament Election) indicate that Mr.Thiruma is developing as formidable force in northern districts of Tamilnadu. In the 2001 Assembly elections DPI was with the DMK led front which faced the defeat all over Tamilnadu except in Chennai and Cuddalore.

DPI has nothing to do with the Chennai victory, as it is the traditional stronghold of DMK. But the front had won 5 out of 9 assembly segments in Cuddalore irrespective of the strong presence of PMK (was with ADMK front) in the district. The DMK front candidates emerged victorious in Cuddalore, Kurunjipadi, Kattumanarkoil, Mangalore and Chidambaram because of the strength of the DPI.

Even in the last Parliament election, he gave the tough fight to the DPA candidate in the Chidambaram constituency. He polled well above the ADMK front candidate in Chidambaram. He finished second in 5 out of 6 assembly segments in Chidambaram constituency and polled higher than DPA candidate in Kattumanarkoil assembly segment.

Apart from the election prospective, his acquaintance with Mr.Ramadass in the name of Tamil movement is a healthy development, which eventually enriched the social concordance between the two oppressed communities. Though both the leaders reassured their relationship would not be shattered by this electoral pact, it may alter the equilibrium in the grass root level when both the parties have face-to-face contest.

It is unfortunate to see both DMK and ADMK annexing the Dalit parties when they don’t have a choice and casting them away when they have solid alliance. If the Panthers victory progresses in the same fashion it might turn out to be a potential loss to the DMK front and substantial gain to the ADMK front. This election is the acid test for the DPI to showcase their potential in tilting the victory margin in North Tamilnadu.

Tamilnadu Elections

2006-02-17T14:19:00.000-08:00

The political parties in Tamilnadu are all geared up for the Assembly elections due in this summer. The political mood and activism in the party’s circle are upbeat and the election mania already gripped in the minds of party leaders with the functionaries and grass root level cadres are well equipped to confront the biggest event.

The exercise of receiving the application from prospective candidates has already been started by the major political parties in Tamilnadu before the Election Commission announcing the schedule. The response has been overwhelming with aspirants queuing up in large numbers before party offices to purchase the forms.

The Chief Minister and the General Secretary of the ruling party, All-India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) is announcing plenty of new schemes and sops everyday and launching the schemes which she stopped after reigning the power. ADMK kicked off its campaign with its star speaker and new council chairman Mr.Kalimuthu in full swing.

The despaired hope after the last General Election got refurbished with the stunning by- election triumphs in Kanchipuram and Gumudipoondi in ADMK camp. As no major political party is in alliance with the ADMK, it is desperately looking for political partners. The ruling party is effectively using the Intelligence agencies for strategizing their political fortunes.

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam supremo, Mr.Karunanithi has the laborious task of keeping the “Rainbow Alliance” intact and to repeat the same success of the last General Election. As every political party in UPA demanding for more seats, Kalinger has to utilize all his political intelligence to amicably conclude the sear sharing exercise. With the status of senior partner in UPA, DMK has the additional responsibility to counter attack the ruling party’s attempt to split the seven party alliances.

Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) has reassured its stand in UPA and it will neither go out of UPA nor ask for the coalition government. PMK has to end the speculation of the media about its eroding vote bank in the northern districts and to reassert that it is the major political force in North Tamilnadu after DMK and ADMK. The seat crunch situation prevailing in the UPA has kept the desire of Mr.Ramadoss to accommodate Mr.Thol Thirumavalavan hanging.

Though the former TNCC President Mr.Tinidivanam Ramamurthy has parted his ways with the party for some ludicrous reasons, the Tamilnadu Congress camp is eudemonic with its new State President and an additional central minister from the state. As usual Tamilnadu Congress camp is in low velocity to pick up its speed.

The new born Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) has also started its maiden political campaign with its leader Mr.Vijayakanth engaged in whirlwind Tamilnadu tour. Another National party, BJP hopefully will go alone as no party is ready to accommodate them.

MDMK is in limelight for quite sometime and decision of its General Secretary Mr.Vaiko with respect to alliance is anxiously awaited in the state. Both DMK and ADMK kept their ears wide open to hear any announcement from Mr.Vaiko. ADMK has taken all maximum possible efforts to annex MDMK to its camp. Whether Mr.Vaiko will continue in UPA or yield to the pressure of ADMK is the million dollar question?

Every party has kept their political apparatus busy and charged up for the next political bonanza. Yes, Tamilnadu is all set for yet another election ceremony. We wish the political parties all the best for their campaign and success.

Movie: Thavamai Thavamirunthu

2006-01-07T09:03:00.000-08:00

Cheran, a rarest talent in Tamil filmdom registered his innate ability in his debut movie Barathi Kannamma with a novel story line and stunning climax. He has panache for good cinema which enriched the experience on celluloid with his movies like Porkalam, Vetrikodikattu and Pandavar Poomi. He touched the new altitudes in Indian cinema with his remarkable and national award winning Autograph.

Cheran one of the handful of movie makers who has the guts to make the uncompromised artistic cinema even in the era of the stereotyped or formula based movies reigning the film world. His niche for quality cinema keeps rolling and he comes out with flying colours in his latest venture Thavamai Thavamirunthu which is heartwarming from start to end.

The Tamil cinema normally restricted itself to focus on mother son relationship alone, but Cheran picked the unexplored territory of bondage between father and son and Thavamai Thavamirunthu serves the glowing tribute to fatherhood. The movie is the poetry in celluloid with appealing story line, skillful screenplay and appropriate characterization with well rooted nativity.

The plot sets in Tamil village milieu with the location, sets, makeup and the other production related stuff perfectly sync in with the story telling. The limelight is on the lower middle income family which struggles for their very own livelihood. Cheran adopted his Autograph magic to go into memory lane and unfold the nostalgic feelings to drive home the message effectively.

The story is all about Muthiah (Rajkiran) and Saratha (Saranya) and their two sons Ramanathan (Senthil) and Ramalingam (Cheran). Muthiah owns a printing press is running pillar to post, taking loans and pledging his belongings to give his wards the best education though he is uneducated. The problem created in the family with his erring elder son and his sulking daughter in law (Meena) starts quarreling. Ramalingam (Cheran) added fuel to the fire by committing a serious blunder and eloped with his lover (Padmapriya). The happenings aftermath forms the rest of the movie.

The rural language and accent of the characters are perfect as the story is happening in the village near Karaikudi and kudos to Cheran as he intelligently avoided any caste names being used or suffixed to the character names in the movie belonging to the region which is very common in Tamil movies. The happy family celebrating the Pongal in their native village even after they moved to bigger city is pleasurable.

Rajkiran, vastly underrated actor, lived in the role of Muthiah. He dominates the whole show with his hallmark performance and etched out an impression that as if the role is played by thespian Nadikar Thilagam Sivaji Ganesan. Saranya, a gifted actress, has the life time performance in this film. Cheran besides many responsibilities on his sleeve blends into the character with consummate élan and ease. Padmapriya has the outstanding debut with Senthil and Meena made their presence felt.
The movie is criticized for its length but the movie has the depth to touch the heart and takes close you to the brink of tear. With this movie Cheran joins the elite club of greatest Tamil movie makers and this film is on par with Barathiraja’s 16 Vayathinile, Maheindaran’s oothri pookal, Balumahedra’s Veedu and Thankar’s Azhaki.

Thavamai Thavamirunthu is brave attempt and it catapulted Cheran to the pinnacle of fame.

When are we going to learn?

2005-12-31T08:56:00.000-08:00

Starting from the disastrous earth quake followed by the Tsunami in South East Asia, the world was critically challenged by the nature’s wrath with heavy incessant rains in Mumbai, devastating series of hurricanes in United States, catastrophic earth quake in Pakistan and torrential rains in Tamilnadu. The loss of life and property due to these natural calamities are vast and shocking.

Though some scientists are pointing their fingers towards Global Warming for the drastic alterations in the nature, practically it is tough to control the nature’s cause. But the tragedy occurred during the saree distribution in Lucknow, heart breaking fire accident in Kumbakonam School, dreadful stampede in Vyasarpadi followed by a bloody stampede in MGR Nagar, Chennai could have been avoided if proper system is in place.

The stampede which killed 42 innocent people and left many injured in the MGR Nagar is the classic example of the complete collapse of administrative machinery in Tamilnadu. This tragedy occurred during the distribution of relief coupons for the affected people in the non stop rain in Chennai. This disaster happened even after the similar incident in the same kind of relief operation in Vyasarpadi.

It indicates that the officials and functionaries are so dump that they have not learned any lessons even after Vyasarpadi tragedy. The calamity occurred in the wee hours of the day, but the people started gathering in the venue from the previous night despite of heavy rain. If the crowd controlling was in good shape this tragedy could have been avoided and saved many precious lives.

The accusation of Government towards the spread of rumors and the notorious involvement of anti social elements are ridiculous and it is the clear indication of the failure of the administrative vehicle in the state. If the officials are blaming spread of rumors why didn’t the nip off the rumors in the bud? Why didn’t they smack down the anti social elements?

The Government accusing the gathering of people and the greed of the people is outrageous and condemnable. Even in the super power United States there was an evident of tussle and disarray in Wal Mart Thanks giving sale so it is absolutely shame on the part of administration to blame people for their lack of efficiency.

Why the government and administrative system was not in high alert and extra careful even after many grievous incidents? Why they are mediocre and clueless in handling these situations? Why the so called bright and smart IAS and IPS officers are so lackadaisical and lethargic to frame a systematic approach? Why don’t they deploy the ample police force to mitigate the risk of stampede?

It is miserable and pathetic to see the heartrending incidents of these kinds so often. When are we going put an end to the consequences of carelessness and negligence? When are we going to learn the importance of the valuable and precious human life?

Achievements of Dravidian Movements

2005-12-18T07:02:00.000-08:00

There are quite a few numb, eccentric, jerk, bum, goof-off and jokester persons like Cho and Subramaniyam Swamy are always blabbering about the failures of Dravidian movements for any damn thing and blame the Dravidian parties even if the north east monsoon fails in Tamilnadu.

Some section of media and intelligentsia never flunked to utilize any opportunity to write, talk and float the idea of bringing in the alternatives to Dravidian parties in Tamilnadu politics and accuse the Dravidian parties as if they dug and buried the fortunes of Tamilnadu. This mania intrudes into the minds of section of educated backward caste people joining in the very same queue who are all got the social acceptance only because of Dravidian movements.

Apparently there exists a flattened feeling in the society that what the Dravidian movements achieved except the anti God and even after the vigorous anti God propaganda have they rationalized the whole state?

There should be qualitative analysis instead of the quantitative analysis when evaluating the anti-God movement which brought the renaissance in the state. The religious faith or spirituality is always spread in the society with the attached fear components like Karma, previous birth, fate etc which eventually dampened the human brain to think and question.

This movement opened the doors of questioning and reasoning and enabled the people to use their rationale faculty even for their religious fervors. Though the movement has not completely eliminated the religious faith from the people, but it has totally wiped off the fear factors associated with it. Religious institutions of any kind cannot exploit or fool the people as easily as they did before the movement started here. This is knowledge revolution and the battle was fought in human minds with the intellectual armory.

The knowledge of Sanskrit was essential to enter into any professional college in Madras province which deeply hampers the students from oppressed section to become Doctors and Engineers. The Justice Party after regaining the power felt this criterion was ridiculous and removed this eligibility which carved the path for the downtrodden students to enter into professional colleges.

This academic year medical college admissions witnessed the BC, MBC and SC students got the larger chunk of open competition seats. This noteworthy achievement has been made possible because of the radical change done 60-70 years back. Tamilnadu is the only state which has the larger pool of Doctors, Engineers and Lawyers from oppressed section then the other states in India and in some states still the professional courses are eternal to the same section.

Periyar's contribution to the success of the Vaikom Satyagraha is outstanding. It was the first notable social struggle on a large scale in India. Justice party implemented Government Orders giving reservation in education and job opportunities, passed the Hindu Religious Endowment and Charitable Trusts Act to regulate the management of the secular activities of religious places, abolished by law the system of Devadasi (divine prostitute), threw open all public places - schools, roads, tanks etc. - to the depressed classes, refused to issue or renew licenses to the bus companies that refused to carry `untouchables'.

Dravidian parties scrupulously adopt the necessary measures, including constitutional amendments, to promote and safeguard the policy of reservation meant for the advancement and adequate representation of the socially and educationally backward classes. They encourage the education of women, inter-caste marriages and widow marriages, and have lawfully provided for an equal share for women in the property of the parents. The governments formed by the Dravidian parties did not lag behind others in bringing about economic development and implementing welfare and socialist measures.

As Tamil soil is cultivated by great Dravidian leaders for a long time and the essence of the movement is deeply penetrated in to the people minds, the state always remains as a decorated example of secularism and escorts the true meaning of secular credentials. Most of the states in the country were in turmoil after heinous demolition of Babri masjid, but Tamilnadu remained calm because of the secular seeds sowed in by its leaders which never allowed any communal violence to go out of proportion.

All possible painstaking efforts taken by the communal parties like BJP to have a stronghold here went vain and unproductive because of the strong roots of this movement. Even during the recent Sankaracharya arrest, the state hadn’t exhibited any religious fanaticism in fact it celebrated it by firing crackers and reinstated that it is the birth place of Thandhai Periyar and Aringer Anna.

Dravidian movement is the pioneer in launching the struggle against social injustice and stood as a role model for the whole nation to fight for social justice. Ms.Mayawati celebrated Periyar mela in a grand way in Uttar Pradesh is the evidence that this movement inspired the rise of backward community leaders in northern India.

Wherever men claim equality and whenever all human beings seek equal rights, the spirit of the Dravidian movement will live there. In their struggle to gain human rights and dignity, and to safeguard cultural identity and linguistic equality, to eliminate caste discrimination and uphold social justice, the leaders, cadres and members of the Dravidian movement have undergone sufferings, incurred losses and made sacrifices that are monumental and memorable.

P.S: Dravidian Movement includes the Justice party, Self Respect Movement, Dravidar Kazhakam, Political parties branched out from Dravidar Kazhakam and the Congress rule under Mr.K.Kamaraj

Great men think alike

2005-12-06T12:21:00.000-08:00

Compare the living status of an agriculturist and a peasant with that of the merchants living in the towns and enjoying good facilities. A rural area should be provided with urban amenities such as school, hospital, park, theatre, library, radio, good transport facilities, bus stand, police station, stationery and departmental stores etc.,

-Thanthai Periyar
(Source: Extract from the address delivered by Thanthai Periyar at the Annual Day Celebration of the Village Officers Training Institute at Erode on 31-10-1944)

Physical connectivity by providing roads, electronic connectivity by providing reliable communication network and knowledge connectivity by establishing professional institutions and vocational training centres will have to be done in an integrated way so that economic connectivity will emanate. The PURA has to be a business proposition economically viable and managed by entrepreneurs and small scale industrialist, as it involve education, health, power generation, transport and management. The PURA scheme makes clusters of villages developed, in addition to maintaining rural beauty.

-Dr.A.P.J.Abdul Kalam
( Source: Extract from the address at the dedication ceremony of JSS academy of Technical Education Complex, Noida, August 01, 2003)

P. S: This is published in “The Modern Rationalist“.

Uma Bharati’s Episode

2005-12-03T10:24:00.000-08:00

The disarray, confusion, embarrassment and rough-and-tumble politics persisting in Bharathiya Janatha Party in the last 18 months after they got knocked out from power by people’s mandate is absurd and ludicrous. The recent happenings have pulverized the ostensible image of the party which is known for discipline and ideology.

The parliament election defeat shattered the BJP in a bigger way that they deviated from the role of playing the responsible opposition and they could not able to keep their internal affairs intact. BJP had the tough time to calm down the rough weather created by its president Mr.Advani about his secular statements in his Pakistan tour.

Ms.Uma Bharati has become a pain in the ass for the central leadership and a demon that is terrifying the old fellow’s sleeps. It is inscrutable to understand the politics involved in the exclusion and inclusion of Ms.Uma in the party in the last one year. The suspension of Ms.Uma from the party is only because of her unrestraint statements or is she victimized by the party leaders?

Though there is hypocrisy, betrayal and partiality involved in the suspension of Ms.Uma from the party, she deserves these kinds of punishments for attitude and behavior. BJP has utilized her cult image for the state election victory of Madhya Pradesh and thrown her to the dust bin once it attained the victory. She was omitted from the party after her fierce campaign and rhetoric’s in recent Bihar election.

Her firebrand hindutuva activities and aggressive participation in Ayothya movement have so far not come for her rescue. She is insisting that she is always standing for the ideals of the party, but her desire to occupy the chief minister seat, which she deserved, is always on her top list. She calls herself as Sanyasi, but her lust to be at the helm of power never sunk.

Her disgusting political stunts along with Ms.Sushma Swaraj in the wake of Ms.Sonia Gandhi becoming the Prime Minister of India to get the blessings of RSS got hammered after Soniaji showed her utter selflessness which is totally unknown to persons like Uma and Sushma. Her resignation from the Chief Minister ship after the summons from Karnataka court in Tiranga case and the yatra she launched after that clearly indicates that she digged her own grave.

Her suspension is on the disciplinary grounds; her questions of discipline against other leaders are looks tangible. She cited Advani offering to step down in the wake of the Jinnah controversy, Mahajan's critical article on Gujarat riots in 'BJP Today', Arun Jaitley fighting cases against Gujarat and Rajasthan Governments for "big fees" and Sushma Swaraj's charges against party leaders after her Government's defeat in Delhi as acts of "indiscipline".

Though the reason being obvious why Uma doesn’t seem to realize the problems she is facing in the party which Sushma’s, Jaitley’s and Mahajan’s are not. At least at this moment she should understand the true colour of BJP and leave her love towards hindutuva politics, Ayodya and Ram temple.

Bihar Verdict

2005-11-24T09:23:00.000-08:00

Tediously protracted and relatively long election process in Bihar is concluded and the results were out. The election commission is now breathing happily after conducting two elections within the span of one year in the tough state like Bihar where in the conditions are seems to be non-conducive for the democratic exercise.

The fractured verdict in the last election which had not given the absolute majority to any single party or pre poll alliance kept the state perturbed and rattled the democracy in a greater way. This time Bihar voters are decisive and given a clear mandate to JD (U) led National Democratic Alliance which ends the political uncertainty enduring in the state in last eight months.

The NDA’s landslide victory spearheaded by Mr.Nitish Kumar ousted the Lalu-Rabri regime in Bihar. The strong anti incumbency cloud and the vote for change drubbed the RJD and put an end to the 15 year rule in Bihar. This election belongs to Mr.Nitish Kumar for his determination and the JD (U) leader cashed in the follies of Governor’s rule.

The media persons and the upper crest bureaucrats who denounced Mr.Lalu as the villain of Bihar are happier than Mr.Nitish Kumar or Mr.Arun Jaitley or Mr.Paswan in drumming him out from Bihar secretariat. The fact should be remembered when welcoming the change of guard or a new government in Bihar that Mr.Lalu is man behind the social freedom of deprived class masses in Bihar.

As Mr.Lalu said in one interview that he did not give them heaven, but he did give them voice. Yes, Laluji changed the scenario where the backward and scheduled class people got recognized as human beings in the state which was not the case 15 years back. As many dubbed him as the person who deliberately kept the state in dire straits and ceased the prosperity and growth of the state should not forgot that the state was never a prosperous state even before 15 years.

The colossal of certain dominant castes in Bihar whom owned the most of the cultivating land in Bihar are obstructed by him and he emancipated the backward people from their landlords. The wretched conditions of the oppressed section of Bihar got the national attention only in Laluji period which his predecessors scared to bring to limelight.

His unassailable stand against the communal forces and fortified the state from them are significant achievements. He is a towering example of safeguarding the secular credentials of the country and his bold and distinct decision of not allowing the Rath yatra to enter in Bihar is outstanding. He has become a nightmare for the fascist forces to spread their grievous agenda in the state.

The incoming chief minister Mr.Nitish Kumar is also a capable person and hope he will change the course of Bihar which the fourth estate assaulted day in and day out as grim. As George Washington correctly asked when he refused to contest for third time, “If the same person is elected repeatedly in a democratic nation then where the democracy lies”. Though the change of government is essential for the democracy to prosper, Laluji is still remaining as the savior of poor and down trodden and the champion of social and secular cause.

Superstitions galore media

2005-11-19T07:27:00.000-08:00

The Scientific inventions, innovative technologies and modern methodologies are flowing profusely into the world day by day. These scientific advancements are for the comfort and of course sumptuous living of human beings. But unfortunately the Print media, Radio, Television, Cinema and Internet are being used to propagate the superstitions to sabotage the very purpose of their inventions.

In Tamil cinema, Super Star is a frontrunner in inculcating superstitions in his recent movies like Arunachalam, Baba and Chandramughi. Even after the miserable debacle of Baba, the scenario has not changed. Though the Chandramughi is modishly made film it is displeasing to witness the amalgamation of medical science with occultism.

An astrologer played a pivotal role in determining the Captain’s party name and the auspicious date and time to announce the party name based on Mr.Vijayakanth’s Lucky number. Captain’s show is almost ghost directed by his astrologer. It is piteous to see Puratchi Kalaiger has become a hapless victim of pseudoscience.

Tamil satellite channels surmounted the filmdom in airing the irrational beliefs for free. They are competing with each other in broadcasting the programmes relating to zodiac signs and gemstones without the worry of any scientific reasoning. The have waged a war against their own viewers in the form of mega serials which does not guarantee any logic or noetic thinking.

Even the Hollywood is in no less comparison to Tamil film fraternity in disseminating the supernatural contents. It is exasperating to watch the ghost related and haunting genre movies pouring in Hollywood nowadays. Even the critically acclaimed movie like ‘The Sixth Sense’ made with sleek narration and unexpected twist is also concluded with phantasm.

From regional to national and petty to renowned newspapers carries the daily, monthly and yearly horoscopes based on zodiac sign. Along with science and technology they are publishing the exclusive columns of popular astrologers. To make the case worst the famous national newspaper The Indian Express has the link to astrology in its home page.

The unprecedented hype and hoopla over the Harry Potter movies and books are containing only the interesting verbalization of magical and sorcerous powers without stimulating any scientific questioning. These books and movies seem to be the deliberate attempt to subdue the scientific temperament of children.

The intrusion of astrology has not spared the computer and Internet. There are many sites available in web to spread the astrology with computer josium, daily horoscopes, zodiac sign relationships, numerology, gemstones, palmistry, tarot cards etc.

The invention of computer showcased the exceptional magnitude of human intellectuality but it is also been effectively used to ruin the human brain. It is hard to digest the superstitions eclipses science even in 21st century Internet era.

Not an Executive President, but a Working President

2005-11-10T13:58:00.000-08:00

An epitome of the country’s liberal and secular traditions, the first Dalit President of India K R Narayanan who synthesized his profound scholarly knowledge with political sagacity during his Presidency died in New Delhi at the Army Research and Referral Hospital on 9th November, 2005.

Born on October 27, 1920 in Uzhavoor in Kottayam district in Kerala and started his life as an untouchable in that region of Vaikom struggle. The social transformation that took place because of the 1924-25 Vaikom Satyagraha had made an untouchable the first citizen of the nation. He went to St. Mary's School and then to CMS College in Kottayam. He studied English Literature during his Masters and stood first at the University of Travancore.

The social injustice cloud prevailing in the society showered its acid rain on him, when he was denied an opportunity to work in the University of Travancore as a lecturer which he properly deserved by the Dewan of Travancore because of the ignominious reason that he hailed from Dalit community. As a mark of protest, KR boycotted the convocation and never formally accepted his degree. Fifty years later, when he had become the Vice President of India, the same university requested him which he accepted graciously.

He graduated from the London School of Economics with distinction. His distinguished career spans to greater lengths by being journalist, diplomat in Indian Foreign service, academician, Ambassador, Secretary of External affairs and Member of Parliament and Minister of State.

He is the first president in joining the queue with people to exercise his franchise by overcoming the inherited pattern followed till that time. He spoke candor on various issues relating to social and economical liberalization, nuclear program and social justice of downtrodden.

He never remained stereotyped in the ceremonial post and signing in the dotted lines of elected government’s orders. He used his discretionary powers to innovate and improvise within the confines of constitution. He returned the questionable cabinet decisions of imposition of President’s rule for reconsideration two times which bought dignity and respect to the President’s office.

He called the demolition of Babri Masjid as the greatest tragedy after the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi and deeply disturbed by the genocidal pogrom in Gujarat which he characterized it as a "grave crisis of society and the nation”. These remarks that his predecessors thought was not within the scheme of the President's prerogative.

It is a matter of pride that he never indulges in any religious activities and has not visited any religious institutions during his regime in Rastrapathi Bavan unlike his predecessor Mr. R Venkatraman who was believed to be a staunch devotee who wore his religious affiliations on his sleeve.

As a quintessential statesman with half century public service behind him stood for secular values and social justice all in his life. Mr. Narayanan's innate brilliance and sheer hard work took him to the highest office in India despite the many social and economic hurdles in his path which eventually elevated him as a shining model for children from the poor and oppressed classes.

Mother Parks, take your rest

2005-11-05T03:57:00.000-08:00

“I can honestly say that without Mrs. Parks, I probably would not be standing here today as a secretary of state” said the secretary of state of United states Condoleezza Rice when honoring Rosa Parks in Alabama. Rosa Parks, who inspired a generation to fight for civil rights, died on Monday October 24th 2005 at the age of 92.

Rosa Louise Parks has been called the "Mother of the Modern-Day Civil Rights Movement." By not giving up her seat to a white passenger on a city bus, Rosa Parks started a protest that was felt throughout the United States. Her quiet, courageous act changed America and redirected the course of history.

This brave woman, Rosa Parks, was arrested and fined for violating a city ordinance, but her lonely act of defiance began a movement that ended legal segregation in America, and made her an inspiration to freedom-loving people everywhere.

The bus incident led to the formation of the Montgomery Improvement Association, led by the young pastor of the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The association called for a boycott of the city-owned bus company. The boycott lasted 382 days and brought Mrs. Parks, Dr. King, and their cause to the attention of the world. A Supreme Court Decision struck down the Montgomery ordinance under which Mrs. Parks had been fined, and outlawed racial segregation on public transportation.

The world famous reputed magazine Time honored Rosa Parks as one of the most influential and heroes and icons of 20th century. Parks become the first women to lie in honor in the Capital Rotunda, sharing an honor bestowed upon Abraham Lincoln, John Kennedy and the United States esteemed leaders. Rosa Parks has received hundreds of awards and honors, including the Medal of Freedom Award, presented by President Clinton in 1996.

The President Bush, along with leaders of the House and Senate, lay wraths and had stood silently for 15 minutes before the coffin. An estimated 40,000 people filed silently by her casket in the Capitol Rotunda in hushed reverence, beginning Sunday night and continuing until well pas sunrise Monday.

Renowned talk show host Oprah Winfrey, who was born in Mississippi during segregation, said Parks stand "changed the trajectory of my life and the lives of so many other people in the world. I would not be standing here today, nor standing where I stand every day, had she not chosen to sit down”.

Former President Bill Clinton, his wife, Sen. Hillary Clinton, and others paid their respects at Parks' open casket before the start of the funeral service. "The world knows of Rosa Parks because of a single, simple act of dignity and courage that struck a lethal blow to the foundations of legal bigotry" said Clinton, who remembered riding segregated buses in his native Arkansas until Parks' stand allowed him and others to break through that barrier of racism.

Parks with her defiant act inspired the civil rights movement which ended many atrocious practices and bought justice to many.

We salute you, Mrs. Parks.

P.S. The civil rights movement not only benefited African Americans here, it benefited the Indians also (Read the Article ‘Learn Social justice from Indian Inc’ in Indian Express).

Festivals and Pollution

2005-10-29T05:50:00.000-07:00

Today’s world pollution is a big concern and it poses serious threat to the human health and environment. With unprecedented expansion in population, the pollution in India has sky rocketed. The pollution in India shoots up abruptly due to various factors and the pollution due to festivals is also one among them.

The practice of immersion of Ganesh idols after the Ganesh festival in various cities is causing severe water pollution which leads to the death of tonnes of fish and many aquatic creatures. Gone are the days when the idols are made with clay, nowadays idols are made with Plaster Of Paris and chemical dyes.

The repeated cautions and warnings of ecologists and environmental scientists towards the possible hazards inflicted by the Plaster Of Paris are falling into the deaf ears of the idol makers and buyers. According to scientists, Plaster Of Paris does not get dissolved or disintegrated fast. Moreover, the chemical dyes and colours being used to colour the idols contain poisonous elements. Particularly, Red, Blue, Orange and Green colours contain Mercury, Zinc oxide, Chromium and Lead, the potential causes of developing cancer.

According to one estimate, 7500 idols of Ganesh are weighing about 20,000 kg or in other words, 20 tons. The sea-shore of Mumbai absorbs the immersion of about 1.5 lakh idols every year. The very calculation of the accumulation of clay, Plaster Of Paris, dangerous Chemicals from the paints and colours will shatter the thinking faculty of any brain.

The immersion of Durga Statutes during the Durga pooja is also a cause of concern for environmentalists. In Orissa alone 5,000 Durga pooja idols are made, most of them using harmful paints.

Heavy metals like lead and chrome are not easily assimilated in an aquatic environment and can lead to the massive hurt of flora and fauna of the river, pond, lake and coastal areas. As the same river, pond and lake water is used for bathing and drinking purpose high levels of lead can damage the heart, kidneys, liver, circulatory system and central nervous system, the environmentalist warned.

As Ganesh festival and Durga pooja is troubling the aquatic creatures largely, Holi, a festival of vibrant hues that brings with it a variety of colours is harmful to human beings. The seemingly harmless, “pleasing to eye” colours are synthetic and toxic because of the presence of cheap materials like mica, acids, alkalis, pieces of glass, which not only induce skin disorders like abrasion, irritation, itching but can impair vision, cause respiratory problems and also cancer.

Diwali, one of the important festivals in India has the distinction of polluting the environment to the core. Newborns and aged people have a nightmarish experience because of the high levels of sound caused by crackers during Diwali. Noise pollution on Diwali is between 69.7 db and 88.3 db which are higher than the prescribed limit of 50 db. The decibel levels alarmingly high in metros and it may reach up to 100 db.

Crackers are sometimes manufactured using barium sulphate, sodium nitrate, sulphur and potassium chlorate and when burnt, emit gases such as sulphur dioxide, oxides of nitrogen, oxides of heavy metals and particulate matter that pollute the air and cause eye irritation, respiratory disorders and allergies.

The government, police, pollution control boards are suggesting many alternative ways to celebrate festivals which does not pollute the environment. Even strict and stringent warnings are also given to public to refrain from bursting crackers such as atom bombs, hydrogen bombs, bullet bombs, thousand and ten thousand wallas. But it is all solely depend on the “change of mind”.

Movie: Chidambarathil Oru Appasamy

2005-10-22T10:22:00.000-07:00

Thankar Bachan a renowned cinematographer of the films like Kadal Kottai and Kalamelam Kadhal Vazhaga had wielded the megaphone for the first time in the critically applauded movie Azhagi. Thankar has set the benchmark for quality movies in the Tamil filmdom by his extremely pleasing movie Azhagi.

Thankar had an uneasy time to sort out the pre production controversies and off screen disputes before bringing up the Chidambatathil Oru Appasamy movie to on screen. Amidst all the troubles and tribulations, he has given a good movie. The movie has earned exceptional reviews especially the reputed and tough cine critic Anandha Vikatan has given 44 out of 100.

After his endeavor in photography and direction, he debuts into acting in this movie as this movie does not require any heroics. Elangovan (Thangar Bachan), a school teacher in Chidambaram is harum-scarum person who leads life without any aspirations. He truants the school, shirks his responsibilities, absconding from home often which kept his family in dire straits. He enjoyed his own way of life with his wayward friends in boozing and gambling. His various ludicrous acts done for fun and amusement added more trouble for him and nuisance for his family.

As advised by one Inspector to keep him proper path, the family pleaded and forced him to take a trip to Sabarimala. He nonchalantly accepted the offer but returns with the double religious fervor, refusing to discard his garb, and immersed totally in religious rituals. He continues his saintly life without any family commitments.

He leaves the home after the quarrel with his frustrated wife and decides to lead his life like a swami, least caring about his family’s future. Various experiences later, the man comes to terms with himself, and realizes where his true responsibility lay in. His wife’s reaction and the family acceptance after him back home forms the climax.

Elangovan role is tailor made for Thankar and he fits into the role comfortably. Navya Nair as the beleaguered wife steals the show. An excellent performance from Navya, who’s enacted her role with understanding and a surprising maturity. The greatest asset for this film is the music of the maestro. Ilayaraja is outstanding in background score.

Thankar asserted in the movie that frantic devotion is also an addiction like alcohol, nicotine and drugs. The person who refuses to perform his duties because of being an ardent devotee is not different from the person who relinquishes his responsibilities under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

The camera focusing the sign board displaying “Thanthai Periyar Perunthu Nilayam” (Thanthai Periyar Bus Station) when Elangovan realized his recklessness and returns to the responsible track with new lease of life is a thoughtful directional touch.

Thankar once again reaffirmed that he is a no-nonsense movie maker. Though the movie does not contain any ingenious graphics and exquisite foreign locales, it has plausible storyline. This movie is undoubtedly one more feather in his cap.

Ideology diluted in India

2005-10-15T10:10:00.000-07:00

“Whenever I see leaders like Harkishen Singh Surjeet and Sitaram Yetchury on Television, I squirm in my seat. What a bunch of characters”.Eswar blasted Communists in India in his “India was up for sale !?” blog.

Exasperation of Eswar based on the attitude of Communists towards the two popular countries is truly valid but it is only macroscopic. His accusation is only based on the foreign relations not for what they failed to achieve in India. In my point of view of Communists in India need few more smacking and some accolades for their recent change of approach.

My angriness towards them is due to inappropriate adaptation of Communism in India. India is the auriferous land to sow in the communist ideology and principles. But unfortunately parties in India had blown out the seeds in air. Communists were unsuccessful to reform and revolutionize India with the estimable principles of Communism.

Their main concern was to fight against the exploitation of work and improper wage regime. They accomplished the phenomenal job of liberating the workers from industrial servitude and installing the self-respect of a worker with in the factory campus but they blanked out to emancipate the workers from social evils and to get them the social freedom.

Communists leaders were never ready to worry about social prejudice, graded inequality and discrimination based on caste prevailing in the society. They failed to liberate them from the brutal caste hierarchy before liberating them from their industrial bosses.

The communists are rationalists and they took their oath by saying “ I solemnly affirm that .. .” instead of “ I swear in the name of God…”. Though they are identifying themselves as non-religious, they are not ready to shed their caste image. Their reluctant approach towards the opposition of Hindutuva and the ignorance of social justice are the potential down falls of Communists in India.

They adopted the Communism in the same fashion as it was adopted in Russia, but fortunately Russia was not in the control of Hindutuva. The Communist agenda failed to include any strategy to combat the cruel face Hindutuva that eventually leads to the miserable debacle of Communism in India. In Simple worlds, Communists had not followed the ideology which Thandhai Periyar and Dr.Ambedkar followed.

The Communists are lending their ears to hear about social justice and to understand the meaning of social justice only after the Mandal Commission. In the mean time the proliferation of Hindutuva forces are tremendous to counter the radical change emerging from Communists in India.

The proverb “repentance comes too late” holds well for Communist parties as they started vehemently opposing the Hindutuva and to voice for social justice. Their unshakable and unassailable stand against Hindutuva then any other party is encouraging nowadays.

Madame President – 2

2005-10-08T06:47:00.000-07:00

(… The readers are requested to read to the Madame President blog before start reading this blog …)

Siva has already penned one wonderful blog about Commander in Chief serial on ABC. I am humbly requesting the fans of Siva (including me) and especially Siva to excuse this rookie blogger to write sequel to his blog.

This serial has attracted 16.4 million viewers on its first show. The Indian national newspaper The Hindu published an article about this serial. This drama has been seen as prelude to the 2008 Presidential elections that possibly may have women candidates.

As two episodes have been aired so far, it is doing justice for the sensation created by the blatant promotion through trailers, advertisements and pre shows. Hope the drama has the content to keep its audience intact for the remaining shows.

Though I am movie buff, I don’t generally much incline towards serials and talk shows. This particular serial attracted me to go for it with its novel theme, crispy dialogues and brisk presentation. Geena Davis is splendid in her role as President and her role is groomed in a fantabulous way.

The mode of selection of the Vice President is quite amazing. The President is roping in for the person with whom she had contested during her election for the Vice President ship. She is selecting a person who is supposed to be her political rival and electoral opponent as her running mate.

It is incredible to see her choosing a person for his capability and brilliance by shutting down the political feud and rivalry. Even in drama it looks monumental. Hats off to the Director for utilizing this drama to show the political decency and idealism which has become a rare phenomenon in world politics nowadays.

As every politician across the globe can do anything and everything to climb in the political ladder, it is astonishing to see the vice president nominee in this drama is declining to accept the offer until it is justified.

One thing is flashing in my mind after watching the two episodes. It is about our Tamil satellite channel mega serials. Invariably all Television channels in Tamilnadu are broadcasting the serials in monotonous way without any subtle difference in it.

These serials lack in all departments with obsolete story line, inept screenplay, clumsy dialogues and pathetic characterization. The serials are melancholic from the first day and never touch your heart in any single scene. In the name of family drama they are showing all rubbish.

The serial directors are intoxicating the viewers without any statuary warning and made them addictive. Even the stupid movie can be made to bite the dust in box office but is there any way or anyone to change these mega serials?

Can Captain Capture Crown?

2005-10-01T07:56:00.000-07:00

Captain Vijayakanth commenced his new political innings with a magnificent six. To put an end to the speculation about his political debut, he announced the formation of his political party Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK, which translates as the National Progressive Dravidian Party), in an extravagant style. This blog highlights his strengths and weaknesses of the new game.

The response to the Madurai conference is overwhelming with mammoth gathering and a massive rally. The paradigm ‘Good start is half done’ was not found to be working for political parities in Tamilnadu. The launch vehicles for PMK and MDMK are also on the same fashion as DMDK, but the two parties established themselves only after few hiccups.

He hadn’t created any kind of mockery by making whimsical appearance, issuing arbitrary statements and bizarre interviews on the eve of every election like Mr.Rajinikanth. His stubbornness and solidarity to form a political party has to be appreciated. Kudos to Vijayakanth.

The apprehension about his party ideology and principles ended in a stale climax. His public declaration of intentions to alleviate poverty, eradicate corruption, assent for women reservation bill and transparent governance is in line with same old election manifestos of political parties.

Though the ideology is the same wine in new bottle, it would have been enlivening if he had unleashed his implementation plans. He must be careful to keep away his cinematic ‘Ramana’ style of implementation taking precedence over reality.

The warmth shown by other prominent leaders like Kalaiger and Mr.Vaiko for his new party showed his amicable relationship with them. It is good sign of healthy politics emerging out. As no party is ready to provide asylum for the ailing BJP unit of Tamilnadu, it is wooing DMDK for political alliance. The other big kazhagams (DMK and ADMK) are reprimanding for their nexus with BJP, it is wise not to burn his fingers by shaking hands with BJP.

It is heartening to see him garlanding the Periyar and Anna statues on their birthdays and paying tributes to the great leaders of Tamil soil. Hope these felicitations might not be a political customary rather then to accustom the great leaders legacy and path.

The permutations and combinations done in media about his capacity to garner the neutral electorates and his ability to erode the traditional vote bank of existing political parties are too early and may not be accurate. The vociferous discussion of his chance to spoil the vote bank of Mr.Vaiko based on his caste is sheer nonsense.

He would be considered as a potential force to reckon in Tamilnadu politics only after his party performance in the coming 2006 general election. Late Mr.M.G.Ramachandran had the luxury of four years before facing the first general election, but his party’s litmus test is on the cards. He got astounding opening, let’s wait and see how he keeps the momentum going. Let us wish all success for his new ball game and to maintain his score card ticking.

Welcome Mr.Vijayakanth !!!.

A Memorable Evening

2005-09-24T07:04:00.000-07:00

I was ecstatic to see the invitation in Think – Tank daily Viduthalai (Mouth piece or Band wagon of Davidar Kazhagam) sent by Washington Tamil Sangam. It was for the reception to Davidar Kazhagam President Mr.K.Veeramani who had been touring United States. The gathering is to felicitate him for his latest book Vazhalviyal Sithanaikal - 2. The function comprised of keynote address and followed by Question answer session with him.

Mr.K.Veeramani is one of the renowned speakers in Tamilnadu who has cognizance of many subjects and his speeches are progressive with authentic facts and credible information. His words always perk up me, rejuvenate my thoughts and refurbish my rational module.

He has authored many books on rationalism and social justice. This particular book Vazhalviyal Sithanaikal – 1& 2 is significant in his writing career as it is totally different from his other books. The Vazhalviyal Sithanaikal book comprises of articles related to self growth, personality development, health tips, moral practices and wonderful habits can be adopted on day to day life.

The Vazhalviyal Sithanaikal – 1 book was released last year has received a roaring acclamation for its content and substance. The book was a huge hit with record sales. The book has earned exceptional reviews from daily’s and magazines. The Vazhalviyal Sithanaikal – 2 is the continuation of the first book with another 50 quality articles.

Before coming to Washington, he was invited by the World Humanist and Rationalist Conference held in Paris and delivered a phenomenal speech on impact of cultural and socio-religious institutions and practices on economic wellbeing and human rights of the people. Two books of Thandhai Periyar were translated to French and released in Paris.

His topic of speech on the occasion was Periyar- yesterday, today and Tomorrow (Periyar-natrum innrum nallayum). He spoke about the intellectual and rational way how Periyar bought in the revolution in Tamilnadu and how Periyarism is vital and indispensable for the welfare of the society. He articulates how the principles of Periyar are admired by the world and how persistent they are.

His way of expressing, the fountain of words and his power of reasoning are amazing. The speech was followed by question answer session where the audiences have asked questions about Periyarism, politics, reservation, dalit movement and Women empowerment. He responded to the questions so promptly with appropriate and relevant answers.

Though I am constant attendee of his meetings, I got excited to see him in Washington, DC. That evening was memorable and will always be vivid in my memory to remember and cherish.

Thanthai Periyar – Crusader of Social Justice

2005-09-17T05:39:00.000-07:00

A Social Reformer who worked relentlessly with tremendous energy to demolish everything that degraded, discriminated and suppressed humans and to build a new and just social order based on egalitarian principles and rational outlook is none other than E.V. Ramasamy popularly hailed as Thanthai Periyar. This blog is a humble tribute to the Great Man on his 127th Birth Anniversary.

Periyar was born in the last quarter of 19th century (September17th, 1879) in the society where atrocious and cruel Hindu religious practices were in place. At the time the lower castes (Sudaras and panchammas) considered their discrimination, suppression and wretched condition as natural and fate. They did not resent or were not even conscious of the indignities heaped on them. Periyar who has a great passion for social justice fought tenaciously to emancipate the people from all social evils.

He stressed the need to abolish the hierarchal, graded, birth-based caste structure as a prelude to build a new egalitarian social order. He fought against those whose vested interests that upheld and perpetuated beliefs, faiths, traditions, customs and institutions that degraded and discriminated people.

He realized that without instilling the spirit of human dignity and self-confidence, people cannot be emancipated. So he started self-respect movement and spread the idea of the equality and the worth of all human beings.

He gave great importance to make people to use their rational faculty, to embolden them to think freely on all issues including the religious and ‘spiritual’ ones, and to accustom them to plan their own living, individually as well as collectively.

Periyar's vigorous and spirited role in the Vaikom Satyagraha (1924-25) contributed in no mean measure for the triumph of that first historic social struggle in the history of modern India. This paved the way for the "untouchables" to use public roads without any inhibition and for other prospective egalitarian social measures.

His programs, movements, campaigns, propagations, activities and agitations to accomplish social justice, women empowerment, script reform and birth control etc have never created any turbulence or hostility in the country. He brought in the silent revolution.

The courage, determination and perseverance exhibited by the Socrates of South India while bombarding the social disorders rooted in the society has made Periyar as a Distinct and Unparalleled Leader. His rational approach and legacy got the attention of the whole country.

The benignancy and graciousness possessed by his black shirt, stubbornness emerged out from his soft hairy white beard, modern vision envisioned by his old fashioned round spectacle and the honest path laid by his invincible walking stick are undoubtedly a boon to human race.

Long Live Periyar…..

Hinduism – Unjust and Unequal

2005-09-10T05:13:00.000-07:00

The Title may trigger anguish to many of the followers of Hinduism, but it deserves the title for its wicked content and immoral principles. This blog illustrates the practices persisting in the religion which deteriorates the society and its own people.

The common people of India have suffered for a very long period, for about 2000 years, under religious influences and social institutions that are inimical to their freedom and advancement. The social system emphasized by Hinduism, orthodoxically known as Vedic Sanathana Dharma, is unequal and unjust. It prescribes and sanctifies the graded birth-based inequality among various castes organized on Varna system.

The four-fold Varnas are Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaisiyas, and Sudras. Those outside the Varna fold are known as Avarnas, Panchamas, Chandalas etc, called ‘Untouchables’ and ‘Unseeables’. People born in Sudra, Avarna, Panchama etc castes form the lower and the lowest rungs of the social ladder. In this graded inequality, they have been denied educational and other facilities to develop their mental faculties and moral stature. They were kept illiterate and superstitious by religious heads and priests.

The scriptures like epics (Ithihasas), mythologies (Puranas) and Codes of Conduct (Dharma Sastras) taught them that by birth they belonged to a servile class. They were made to believe, by the principle of Karma, which they were born in a low caste because of their misdeeds in the previous birth.

Being mentally shackled, the vast majority of Indians, the Sudras and Panchamas, forming more than 80 per cent of the population, were made to lead a wretched life for several centuries under monarchs who ruled according to the principles and Codes of Conduct laid down in the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Manu Dharma Sastra etc.

Such scriptures condemned these people as sinners by birth (Paapa Yonih.) Among the servile classes, the lot of the Panchamas was the worst, being treated as untouchables. Condemned to live in the outskirts of the villages or in the slums of towns, they were prohibited to use public streets, lakes, wells, schools, temples etc. They were not allowed even to clothe decently.

Sati is the traditional Hindu practice of a widow immolating herself on her husband's funeral pyre. Sati was considered as a most virtuous and meritorious act which inflamed innocent women in the name of religion.

Devadasi system is the religious system of votive offering of girls of particular community to the deities in the Temple. The system forced the Devadasis to prostitution in the name of God and religion. This ignominious Hindu tradition kept destitute and hapless women shackled for a very long duration of time.

Hinduism entertains the practices of Sati, Devadasi, Child marriage, Bigamy, Untouchability and characterized by caste system and inequality is certainly the menace to mankind

Women Reservation Bill

2005-09-03T05:56:00.000-07:00

This Bill has been creating pandemonium in both the Houses for record number of times since its inception in the Parliament. The Bill is been discoursed extensively and it has undergone all sorts of treatment by the Members in various sessions, but still the fate of the Bill is in cross roads. This blog appraises the comprehensiveness associated with the Bill.

There exists an inferior category in the hierarchy defined by Manu Dharma below the level of Sudhras (All OBC’s, SC and ST) is Women. According to Manu, the women are supposed to perform the duties ordered by the men and have to withstand the excesses caused by him quietly without showing any dissent. This atrocity holds good for all the women belonging to any caste. In Manu’s context, women are given the status of slaves rather then the person with self-respect.

After arduous and prolonged struggle, they are getting relieved from the achings of antifeminism practiced here. But still the male dominance prohibits the participation of women in mainstream politics, which is evident from the statistics that reveals the meager percentage of female representation in State Assembly and in both Houses of Parliament.

The poor presence eventually takes away the views of women in the important decision making process for the growth of the country. The sole purpose of the Women Reservation Bill is to enable the greater participation of women in political arena. This Bill will certainly heel the wounds caused by ill treatments so far.

It is cryptical to understand the mathematics behind the derivation of the magic number 33%. The allocation of one-third percentage instead of appropriate 50 % for half population of the country is skeptical and it is one more instance of male chauvinism.

Waiting for the consensus among the political parties is the cripple reason that stalls the implementation of the Bill. This obviously pictures the hypocrisy in the design the Bill. The draconian act like POTA had been made to existence without the worry of consensus. Why the government is looking for consensus only on this Bill?

The speculation of upper caste politics about the Bill is outrageous as they envisage the Bill to nullify the emergence of Backward and Scheduled caste leaders through their proxies. The uproar in the Northern India is due to the above said fact and it can’t be omitted without given a thought.

The jeopardy felt by the Backward and Scheduled leaders who started participating in the National politics after Mandal era is tangible. The solution for the problem is to assure the internal allocation while implementing the Bill. Without the internal reservation the Bill will not serve the sole purpose it intended for.

If the Bill is thrown to back burner in coming sessions of Parliament, women should reconsider their diplomatic approach towards the implementation. They should march to the streets to fight for their Rights.

Bhopal Declaration

2005-08-27T11:52:00.000-07:00

Bhopal Declaration was unanimously adopted by the “The Bhopal Conference” held at Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh on 12-13 January 2002. The Bhopal Declaration is to chart the new course for Dalits in 21st century. This blog emphasizes the action mechanism to be accelerated by the State and Central Governments in India for the noble cause.

The conference declares its belief in Babasaheb Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s ideal of Social Democracy and his prophecy that, “A democratic form of Government presupposes a democratic form of society. The formal framework of democracy is of no value and would indeed be a misfit if there was no social democracy”.

The intellectuals and activists gathered in Bhopal deliberated the issues concerning the 250 million Dalits in India. They solemnly proclaimed to rededicate themselves to work in unison to achieve the basic rights of Dalits. They carved out a 21-point agenda to liberate the Dalits from scourges of untouchability and exploitation.

The significant observation in the agenda is to ensure the National and State budgets to provide the appropriate allocations according to the population of SC and ST and demands a stringent penalization measures for the Governments which not utilize and diversify the funds allocated for the Dalits. The forum eventually claims the essentiality of installing the Dalit Capital for the empowerment for Dalits.

The subtle employment opportunities occupied by the Dalits in Government and Public sector is vanishing rapidly due to market economy and privatization. As the Government has not ready to show any form of reluctance towards the disinvestment and corporatization, it mandates the focus on Dalit Capital.

The creation of Dalit Capital enables the country to produce Dalit entrepreneurs after 48 years of Independence which has the potential to open the gates for thousands of Dalits to be employed in the industries own by them. The emergence of Dalit Capital has the capacity to tap the inherent talents of the Dalits who have witnessed all possible sorts of discrimination so far. The Dalit capital is the threshold to subsume the innate ability of the Dalits for the Nation’s mainstream growth.

The concept of Dalit Capital should not be conceived or perceived to be the magnanimity shown to Dalits instead it is the affirmative action which they have been denied all the time. The Central Government should conciliate the recommendations and should frame a standing committee which comprises of legislatures across political spectrum to contemplate and debate the Dalit Capital concept.

The committee should not incline itself to hear the noises come from sections which vociferously oppose the social justice. The committee members should commit themselves to roll out the process in top gear to draft the impeccable action plan. The action plan should be made as legislation rather than the G.O. so that it cannot be misinterpreted or put in deep freeze through the judicial machinery.

Millions are anticipating the positive reciprocation from the State and Central Governments.

Social Justice: Judicial Hurdles

2005-08-20T16:25:00.000-07:00

There are many obstacles to achieve a social justice for the masses who are oppressed, suppressed and exploited for thousands of year in India. Courts are posing a major threat to social justice in India. Those who are not able to counter reservation politically here can easily do it through the Courts. This blogs shows some of incidents where the Judicial System has become a barrier for Social justice.

The Supreme Court stayed the Communal G.O, which practiced in Tamilnadu after the Independence. The Communal G.O is the Government order that provided reservation for Scheduled and Backward class people in education and employment. The Supreme Court stayed the Communal G.O by sighting the Constitution, which says, “All are equal before Law”. After the long and tedious struggle by Great leaders like Periyar and Anna, it was restored by amending the Constitution. This is the first amendment to the Constitution of India.

The then Prime Minister V.P.Singh had created history by implementing the Mandal Commission report. The Supreme Court without any good reason stayed the implementation of Mandal report.

The decision to discontinue the Entrance Examination for professional courses by Tamilnadu government for the benefit of rural students has been disapproved by all the Courts in India. Though the decision has got a roaring welcome from all quarters and was supported by all parties including the main opposition could not come in effect. Has the courts are superior to people mandate?

The recent judgment regarding the continuance of reservation in self-financing institutions is a great blow to the social justice. This will hammer down the dreams of SC, SC and BC students to become Doctors and Engineers.

Ultimately the Courts in all status of India are ready to gun down any policy that guarantees Social justice here. There exists a rigid vault in the form of Courts even if the reservation is achieved politically. The judges are so injustice when it comes to social justice problems. To achieve a social justice in India, the reservation has to be implemented in judicial system also. Those who fight for the social justice should also keep in mind that the Courts are there to fight for.

Social Justice: Indian Ltd Vs US Inc

2005-08-13T15:51:00.000-07:00

This blog is based on the two articles “Infosys and Microsoft-1 &2” by Gail Omvedt in “The Hindu”(Sep10th &11th, 2001) and “Learn Social Justice from US Inc” by Chetan Dhruve in “The Indian Express” (July 22nd, 2005). The objective of the blog is to compare the Reservation in India and Affirmative Action in US, which differs in the name but not in the sole purpose.

The word Reservation has negative connotation here and it is been seen as a demerit and compromising the quality. The philosophy behind Reservation is Adequate Representation. The very word Adequate means Add + Equal, see to it is equalized. Reservation is not like giving out something for free to the masses here. It is to prepare or make them to represent in all the activities for the benefit of the nation.

Reservation is to make the government, education institutions and corporate sector to search the required skills in the larger circle of the society instead of fishing in small same pond for years. It is an exercise to mobilize the abundant talent available in all the sections of the society.

Reservation is synonymous with the Affirmative Action practiced in United States where the positive steps have been taken to include those from disadvantaged groups (Blacks) in education and employment. The Black people who suffered slavery and extreme exploitation like the oppressed section of the society in India for centuries has been able to make their presence in all the departments of the United States as a result of Affirmative Action.

As said in the “Learn Social Justice from US Inc” article by Chetan Dhruve, the US government not only extended the Affirmative action to African American alone, they included the ethnic minorities like Indians also to get the benefit out of it after the Civil Rights Movement.

Luckily for us, without doing any of the fighting, we reaped the fruits of the Civil Rights Movement. In the name of diversity, the Americans opened their doors and let us into their elite universities and companies and corporate America began doing business with the likes of TCS, Wipro and Infosys. Yet, our ‘meritocratic’ industry and ‘self-made’ NRIs bleat about how India’s competitiveness will be eroded if we give special consideration to SCs/STs in the private sector in India.

As it is very evident from the above said fact, until or otherwise if a person is given an opportunity, it so injustice to determine the merits of the OBC, SC and ST people whom are suppressed for thousands of year.

The employers like Intel, Microsoft, IBM, HP, Boeing, Lucent, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, GE, Nike, General Motors, United Airlines and Proctor & Gamble are supporting the Affirmative action so as like top universities such as Stanford, Harvard, MIT, and Yale. Many former military Chiefs in United States are showing their approval to include Affirmative action in US military. In other words, the world’s most successful companies, the world’s most competitive businesses, the world’s best universities and the world’s most formidable armed personnel favour special consideration for disadvantaged groups. Why the same gratitude is not shown in here in India in all top education institutes and in top corporate sectors.

Microsoft has taken many good steps to educate and train the African Americans to equip themselves to get into IT industry, why don’t the same step has not been initiated here in IT industry which has the greatest potential to grow and blossom. We do not expect the corporate sector to statically define certain percentage for the oppressed section here rather then can take some proactive steps to educate, train and include them in their payroll.

They can open their eyes a little wider to see the people who are all standing little far. This could not only benefit the nation or the particular section of people, it will pay the corporate’s greater dividends that they haven’t tasted so far.

An open letter to Shankar for Anniyan

2005-08-06T06:49:00.000-07:00

First of all let me thank Mr.Shankar for his extravagant and racy entertainer, which once again unleashed the laudable talent of Mr.Vikram. After watching your latest movie Anniyan, I can’t stop many questions arising out from me.

Hope Mr.Shankar might have known that creating scientific temper is the fundamental duty of the citizen in India. Already the whole country is spoiled by many superstitious beliefs; he added fuel to fire by reasserting haven, hell, and punishments in hell and of course “karuda puranam”. Has he able to prove the existence of hell or haven scientifically? Does he have any authentic evidences?
The resurgence of suffixing the caste name, by naming the hero’s name as Ramanuja Iyengar and induction of the song starts with “Iyengar veetu azhage” are the examples where Mr.Shanker is way beyond the common goal of eradicating the caste system. The practice of suffixing the caste name is been eliminated from the Tamil community after a long and lengthy struggle by leaders like Thanthai Periyar.

Instead of urging the people to avoid using the caste names, he reintroduced the given up practice. There exists relatively a hatred felling of using or addressing the caste names in the society, but when it comes to Iyer or Iyengar, it is not. I don’t understand this hypocrisy? I do strongly advocate that both the names are also caste names, and we should be ashamed of using those names.

The third fault in the movie is the extensive use of Sanskrit. Common man neglected the language and it is alien to all of us. I don’t know why Mr.Shanker hailed the language in his movie. May be he did it to show some difference, but it is unnecessary.

And of course the great blender in his movies is death penalty given by the hero. Much has been debated about death sentence in the world so I don’t want to say anything about it and it is up to him to contemplate about it.

I do accept the facts like corruption, social irresponsibility, in discipline, not performing the duty is eroding the country, but he should not forget the major problem. Yes, it is Social justice. Mr.Shanker, can you know or at least heard about what is social justice? We need to uproot the tree developed in the name of social injustice rather then weeding around the tree. We should eradicate the social injustice prevailing in every corner of the country. When are you going to worry about it Mr.Shanker? Great economist and Nobel laureates are often insisting about the importance of social justice for the growth of the country without which there is no economical or social development.

After seeing Gentleman,Indian and Mudhalvan, I really appreciated his concerns about the society, having a feel that his approach needs be streamlined. But I after seeing his Anniyan, I doubt I am wrong about him. He showcased all his views to make money rather than creating awareness.

If he really cares about the country, he should better channel his ideas in the same way what Thanthai Periyar and Dr.Ambedkar did it here? That will pay him more than what his movies collected at the box office. Your medicines will cure only the cold and cough, but the patient will soon die out of cancer Mr.Shanker.

What is Social Justice?

2005-07-27T09:21:00.000-07:00

The word social justice is lingering in the minds of many Indians for quite sometime especially after the Mandal era (after 1990). If I am not wrong many of them does not know the exact meaning of social justice or many have wrongly understood the meaning. In this blog, let me try my best to explain what does it precisely means and how people are performing social injustice in day to day life knowingly or unknowingly by show casing the one simple scenario.

I have attended one of my friends house warming ceremony in Virginia recently in which the Hindu rituals are performed by a priest* in Sanskrit( it sounds alien to most of the people in India, so it is sacred - a weird thought ). The priest was given a Red carpet welcome from the moment he entered the house till the time he get out of the house as if he is directly jumped from the sky to earth. My friend was so humble before him and he is so obliged to perform the activities he was told to do by the priest during the ceremony. By seeing the politeness shown by my friend, I thought that the priest is doing all this for free of cost. To my astonishment, at the end of the rituals he fell down on the priest feet and paid a heavy sum of $300 for an hour which is 4 to 5 times higher the then average software professional paid here.

I really don’t care how much he paid for the priest, but the question here, is he able to show the same respect which he shown to priest to all (mason, carpenter, painter, electrician etc.) who really worked to build the house. I strongly believe he won’t. Why is this partiality to fellow human beings who are all working for our needs and happiness? I doubt the same respect can not be shown to the Doctor who is saving the human life.

This is where exactly the social injustice comes into picture. This is not only happening in one place, it is happening everywhere around the country. Every one of us is doing the same injustice to our people day by day.

It is one of the macroscopic observations regarding the social injustice. The social justice can be given hundreds of definition. The social imbalance caused because of the undue respect enjoyed by the priest like him who does not do anything for the betterment of the society and by denying the due respect for the hard working community here. It is all done in the name of caste and religion.

Can the Indian temples allow any socially deprived class man or women to perform the duties which the upper caste monopolized for them? Will the Hindu community appoint any Scheduled caste person as Head priest in any renowned Hindu temple?

Can the government ready to come out with a White Paper regarding the participation of oppressed class in Administrative Services? Can anyone reveal any office or department in India which has representation of people from all caste in right proportion depending upon the population?

Can anyone show upper caste men or women working as a carpenter, mason, scavenger, a farmer (not a land lord), a coolie, and cobbler? These jobs are reserved for us to do. Why is this discrimination?

* The Priest whom I am referring here is a normal person like us who leads a happy family life. He is not like the Christian Father who scarified his life for spirituality. The basic qualification to become a priest of his kind is the upper caste he belongs to. So the readers should not consider him as of the same stature as of Christian Father. The advantage and privilege is due to caste and only caste nothing more than that.