[www.keralites.net] WEEKEND LIGHTER: FEEL HUNGER

 

WEEKEND LIGHTER: FEEL HUNGER

(February 27/28, 2016, No. 9/2016)

Feel free to mail your views on this edition of WL to mgwarrier@gmail.com

I

FIRST PERSON

Another view on inequality and hunger

On the morning of February 24, 2016 a small shop near Bhandup Railway Station  caught fire and was gutted. I couldn't go to the newspaper vender as smoke and fire force scared me. I missed my usual finance newspapers that morning. Any calamity is an opportunity. That gave me a chance to read "The Rhetoric Of Inequality" by former Procter Gamble CEO Gurucharan Das published in The Times of India that day. The article gives a fair idea about how those who have never been hungry, or have forgotten the 'hungry days' looks at hunger. Das claims that 'carping over inequality' tantamount to 'debating what was settled long ago- you don't make the poor rich by making the rich poor'. Excerpts from the article:

"I have always believed that it is none of my business how much the Ambanis earn as long as they create lots of jobs, pay their taxes and produce wealth for the society. The aam aadmi cares mostly about how he is fairing; he sometimes compares himself to his friends but never to the filthy rich.

Judging the lifestyle of others tempts one to control other things, and this is a short step to becoming a command society. Not to live ostentatiously is a call of Dharma, not a legal duty."

I am totally 'brain-washed' by Gurucharan Das and I leave it to you think for yourself, for now. If I am able to come out of the 'damage', I will be back with my views later!

II

FROM HERE AND THERE

February 22, 2016

Needed, higher insurance cover

This refers to Aarati Krishnan's article "Deposit insurance: what you didn't know" (Real returns, February 22). The article brings together in one place several FAQs on deposit insurance with answers explaining factual position. The article will serve a larger purpose, if policy makers take cognizance of the constraints within which DICGC is functioning today and initiate moves that will help the organisation recast its vision and mission to conform to the present scenario in which banks and financial institutions are working in India today. Such a makeover for DICGC may have to factor in:

(i)                The resources at DICGC's command at Rs50,000 crore is not small. But, it is inadequate to meet the business expansion the corporation may have to think of, if the confidence deposit insurance should instil among depositors is to be restored. DICGC may also have to revisit credit guarantee, a function it exited some time back, in the changed environment.

(ii)              Since 2014, there has been some effort to professionalise DICGC. This need to be taken forward.

(iii)            The anomalous situation arising from commercial banks meeting the cost of the inefficiency of cooperative banks will have to be rectified.

(iv)            The corporation should apply its mind as to whether continuing the level of deposit insurance should be retained at a low of Rs one lakh. Perhaps the threshold should be raised to a level to provide cover for at least 50 per cent of bank deposits.

(v)              Corporation could consider expanding its ambit to all financial institutions regulated by RBI which are accepting deposits from public. This may need differential rates of premia and coordination with regulatory and supervisory arms of RBI.

M G Warrier, Mumbai

 

February 17, 2016

Stop speculating on RBI

Apropos "RBI Guv and Never Ending Speculation" (Economic Times, Money banking, February 17), one wonders why ET should join the speculators. It is common knowledge that even in 2013 when Dr Raghuram Rajan was being tipped for the Governor's position, there were other influential contenders and an opposing school of economists who were spreading all sorts of rumours against Dr Rajan. They were again active during the first half of 2014, gossiping about the possibility of a change of guard at Mint Road, post General Election.

It is India's good fortune that Dr Rajan survived the moves against him, so far. World has acknowledged that the leadership provided by Dr Rajan in the conduct of RBI's affairs has been excellent. If India decides and Dr Rajan accepts on a longer term re-appointment, this paper should not have a doubt about Dr Rajan's capability to sort out his personal relationship with the University with which he has had an enduring relationship for the last two decades.

As any new incumbent governor in RBI takes minimum six months to 'settle down' and the 'work-in-progress' there now needs continuity in leadership, GOI may not think in terms of replacing Dr Rajan in September 2016 and perhaps offer a re-appointment for a longer tenure. But, reports like this can help gossip-mongers and have some impact on the thought processes of economists and media which can influence economy adversely.

M G WARRIER, Mumbai

February 26, 2016

Business Standard - Banks' health worries

This refers to Sudhir Keshav Bhave's letter "A sinking ship" (February 26). This could be an example of how transparency in a sensitive business like banking can spread panic. The Indian banking sector is not in as bad a shape as is being made out by some analysts and external agencies. Major Indian commercial banks including SBI have been able to meet all statutory requirements. Unlike their corporate co-travellers, banks are meeting their payment obligations on due dates and in the recent past there have been no bank failures in the commercial banking sector in India. Part of credit for this should go to the vigilant regulator. This is not to argue that all is well as regards functioning of commercial banks.

There is immediate need to restore the health of the banking system impaired mainly by reluctance of big borrowers to make timely repayment and heavy burden on public sector banks (PSBs) arising from workload and drain on resources in performance of social responsibilities.

There is no point in arguing now that the overhaul and professionalization of public sector banks (PSBs) should have happened along with bank nationalisation and there should have been regular 'health checks' and ongoing corrections. Just as a 'health check-up' does not change the condition of a person, the re-classification of more loans as NPAs does not alter a bank's ability to change. The need of the hour is to support banks to recover their dues from borrowers who have the capacity to repay, infuse professionalism in the banks' working and restore the faith in the banking system.

As private sector banks have failed to perform their responsibilities and are not too willing to grow (their share in banking business is less than 30 per cent), privatising the existing public sector banks is no solution. Perhaps, GOI should consider nationalising entire banking business and restructuring the banking system to serve public interest.

M G Warrier, Mumbai

III

SELF DEVELOPMENT

A suggestion shared by a  doctor, worth accepting*

Each individual must take note of the three ½ minutes. Why is it important?

Three ½ minutes will greatly reduce the number of sudden deaths. Often this occurs when a person who still look healthy, has died in the night. We hear stories of people suddenly die? The reason is that when you wake up at night to go to the bathroom, it is often done in a rush. Immediately when stand up, the brain lacks blood flow.

Why "three ½ minutes" is very important? 

In the middle of the night when you are awakened by the urge to urinate for example, ECG pattern can change. Because getting up suddenly, the brain which is anaemic can lead to heart failure due to lack of blood.

Hence, always practice " three ½ minutes", which are:

1. When waking from sleep, lie in bed for the first ½ minute;

2. Sit in bed for the next ½ minute;

3. Lower your legs, sitting on the edge of the bed for the last ½ minute.

After three ½ minutes, you will not have an anaemic brain and heart will not fail, reducing the possibility of a fall or sudden death.

Share with family, friends loved ones. It can occur regardless of age; young or old.

Sharing is Caring. If you already know, regard this as refresher!

*Copied from an email received from Vathsala Jayaraman (Exrbites Group)

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[www.keralites.net] RANAKPUR TEMPLES

 

Ranakpur Temples are acclaimed world-wide for their intricate and superb architectural style. These temples form one of the five major pilgrimages of the Jains.Located in village of Ranakpur near Sadri town in the Pali district of Rajasthan, Ranakpur temple lies at a distance of 95 kms in the north of Udaipur city. The temple is easily accessible from the city of Udaipur as regular buses are easily available. Built in the 15th century, Ranakpur temples are known for being the largest and most important temples of the Jain cult.

The temple is said to have been built by Seth Dharna Sah (a Jain businessman) with the aid of Rana Kumbha, who ruled Mewar in the 15th century. Ranakpur got its name after the name of the Rajput Monarch and likewise the temples. The temple complex is positioned in an isolated valley on the western side of the Aravalli Range. The Jain Temples of Ranakpur are certainly creditable for their splendid architecture. This temple is wholly constructed in light colored marble and comprises a basement covering an area of 48000 sq feet. There are more than 1400 exquisitely carved pillars that support the temple

The temple is a masterpiece of architecture and boasts of not less than four additional shrines. It has 24 pillared halls with 80 domes that are supported by 400 columns. The upper and lower parts of the domes are linked by brackets that have deities' sculptures. Above all, you would be amazed to see at a height of 45 feet engraved nymphs playing the flute in various dance postures. Each column is intricately carved and it is surprising to know that no two columns have the similar design
Apart from this, another stunning act about these columns is that they change their color from golden to pale blue after every hour during the day. In the mandap (prayer hall), the two big bells of 108 kg each produce a harmonious sound on the movement. Chaumukha temple is formed like a Nalinigulm Vimana (heavenly aircraft) and provides this whole structure a celestial appearance. Conceivably, it is due to the intricacy of the structure that the temple took approximately 65 years to complete.

In the complex, there are several temples including Chaumukha temple, Parsavanath temple, Amba Mata Temple and Surya Temple. Amongst all of them, Chaumukha Temple is the most important and as the term Chaumukha suggests, this temple is four-faced. Chaumukha temple is dedicated to Lord Adinath, who is the first 'Tirthankara' of the Jains. The Temple structure is highly compound having four different doorways to get into the chambers. These chambers ultimately take you to the main hall where the image of Adinath is positioned.

The four faced image also symbolizes the Tirthankara's quest for the four directions and ultimately the cosmos. The image is surrounded by many small shrines and domes. One more range of cells with separate roofs encircles these shrines and domes all over again. The five spires elevate above the walls and around 20 cupolas rise from roof of the pillared hall. Each spire houses a shrine and the largest shrine is the important one that addresses the central altar. The temple ceilings are festooned with foliate scrollwork and geometric patterns.

The Temple of Parsavanath is another attraction that is worth visiting. Built in the mid 15th century, the temple is renowned for its engraved windows embellished with Jain figures. Parsavanath Temple is also known as Patriyon Ka Mandir. In close proximity to this temple, you can trace two other temples dedicated to Neminath (22nd saint) and Surya Narayan (Sun God) respectively. Here, Surya Narayan Temple has innumerable wall projections with circular structure. The sight of Lord Surya driven in his chariot of seven horses is truly pleasing.
The dating of this temple is controversial but it is largely considered to be anywhere between the late 14th to mid-15th centuries. Inspired by a dream of a celestial vehicle, Dhanna Shah, a Porwad, is said to have commissioned it, under the patronage of Rana kumbha, then ruler of Mewar. The architect who oversaw the project is said to have been named Deepaka. There is an inscription on a pillar near the main shrine stating that in 1439 Deepaka, an architect, constructed the temple at the direction of Dharanka, a devoted Ritu Jainhe origins of Jainism can be traced back to the Indus River valley civilization of 3000 B.C. Jains believe that there were 24 great teachers the last of whom was Lord Mahavira who lived during 6th century B.C. These twenty-four teachers are called Tirthankaras-people who had attained all knowledge while living (Moksha) and preached it to the people. Thus, there is not one all-powerful supreme being that controls all. Jains believe in reincarnation. Their souls, which are believed to be a unique substance in the universe, take different living forms in the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. This cycle has been going on forever, the universe has no beginning or end, it has always been and always will be. The ultimate goal is to get rid of one's karma on their soul so that they may end this cycle. Once this goal is reached their soul has attained all knowledge and it rests in the heavens forever (Nirvana). Karma theory is about actions and the results they bring to the soul's path. It is the simply the law of cause and effect with respect to the soul. 
E.G. One's actions for today will effect what will happen to them in this or their future lives. The way to get rid of one's karma is to 
follow certain rules of doing good somewhat similar to the ten commandments. These include the principles of: Ahimsa - To protect all life (non-violence) Satya - To speak truth Asteya - To not steal Brahmacharya - To not commit adultery Aparigraha - To limit one's possessions Jains uphold these principles by practicing vegetarianism, non-violence in thought, deed, and action. Jains perform their sacred rituals at the temple or Derasar. Some of these rituals are: Puja - Concentrating on one's soul through intense prayer sometimes in the presence of sculptures of the teachers to serve as an example of how to attain Moksha. Samayik - Forty-eight minute ritual that asks for forgiveness for one's sins Namokar Mantra - A short prayer that can be said at any time that shows obeisance to the perfect souls that have achieved Nirvana. The biggest event in the Jain calendar is the holy week (8-10 days) of Paryushan where Jains reflect upon their actions throughout the past year. The week takes place in August or September and is concluded by a three hour prayer called Pratikraman.

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[www.keralites.net] 14 Brilliant Indian Movies Which Have Gone For Oscar Submissions Over The Years

 

Since the year 1957, India has been sending movies for submission at the Oscars, for the Best Foreign Language Film category. It all started with Mehboob Khan's epic drama, Mother India, which actually went on to even get nominated for the award. And since then, the journey has been pretty memorable. Even though only three Indian films have been nominated in the Best Foreign Language Film category at the Oscars (Mother India, Salaam Bombay!, and Lagaan), the films which India has been submitting throughout the years for nomination are definitely a must watch. We picked out a few best ones for you, and it's time you stock up on their DVDs right now!

1. Mother India

Okay, so you've got to be living on some other planet if you still haven't caught up with this epic drama film starring Nargis and Sunil Dutt. And of course, you all would know the story that despite playing her son in the movie, Sunil Dutt who went on to save Nargis from the fire on the film's sets, managed to woo her. And as they say rest is history! Also, this is one of the three films which were actually nominated in the Best Foreign Language Film category at the Oscars.

2. Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam

Yet another classic starring the ethereal Meena Kumari, Rehman and Guru Dutt. It explored the complicated relationship between a lonely wife, who takes to drinking, her busy husband and a lowly employee. And even though it was India's submission to the Oscars, the Academy actually wrote back to Guru Dutt stating that a woman drinking alcohol isn't permissible in their culture and hence they can't nominate it!

3. Guide

Dev Anand's masterpiece Guide is one movie which each and everyone out there must see once. Exploring the complications and various emotions of life, Guide is one cult classic film and would always remain so. Waheeda Rehman and Dev Anand's pairing too ensured that it was a super duper hit when it released.

4. Manthan

This Shyam Benegal's film starring Smita Patil might not be popular today, but it's one of those classics which is like an acquired taste. Like it or not, you simply cannot ignore it. Based with the backdrop of white revolution in the country, and brilliant actors like Smita Patil, Girish Karnad, Naseeruddin Shah, and Amrish Puri, the film went on to win the National Award for Best Hindi Film the year it was released.

5. Saaransh 

This is one film which will always be remembered for it's sensitive and hard hitting storyline and some amazing exhibition of acting talent from Anupam Kher and Rohini Hattangadi. Exploring the rampant corruption in the system, Anupam Kher stole the show in this one, when he played a stubborn old man whose son has been shot dead, despite the fact that he was actually just 28 years old at that time!

6. Salaam Bombay!

Here's one film which will put forth the naked brutalities and struggles of life. Based on the life of street urchins in Bombay, this Mira Nair flick will actually leave you thinking about life and its consequences. This one went on to become the second film which was actually nominated at the Oscars.

7. Rudaali

Odds are you must have heard about this Dimple Kapadia film. Based on the lives of professional mourners (known as Rudaalis) in Rajasthan, and directed by Kalpana Lajmi, here's one flick which will make you escape your daily grind and spare a thought for people who are not so fortunate in life. Dimple Kapadia did an explosive job in this film and went on to win the National award for Best Actress as well.

8. Bandit Queen

Well, what do we say about this one. Bandit Queen chronicled the life of the female bandit, Phoolan Devi, and showed how she was forced to become a bandit after being raped multiple times. Seema Biswas did a brilliant job and this film is not meant for the faint-hearted! 

9. Earth 

Yet another Mira Nair film on the list, and rightfully so! Starring Nandita Das, Aamir Khan, and Rahul Khanna in probably the finest performances of their lives, Earth is set in the time of India's partition in 1947, and how it affects a group of friends all belonging to different faiths.

10. Hey Ram

Written, directed, and produced by South star Kamal Haasan, this is one film where you'd need to apply a lot of brains and keep your emotions under control! The semi-fictional plot of the film shows the tale of Nathuram Godse and how he murdered Mahatma Gandhi. Even though the film saw many protests against it when it released, it still remains to be one of the cult classics of its time.

11. Shwaas

This Marathi film is perhaps one of the most emotionally draining film you'd ever come across. A villager and his 8-year-old grandson visit the city to get the kid's eye operated for a rare type of cancer which he's suffering from. And the only way to save the kid is to undergo a surgery which would leave him blind. The film follows the duo's journey through this ordeal. Shwaas went on to win the National Award for Best Film, which was a first for a Marathi film in nearly 50 years!

12. Lagaan

Come on, so who doesn't know about this Aamir Khan starrer! This one not only became the third film to be nominated at the Oscars, but also won hearts all over the country. And in hindsight, this is one film which actually revived Aamir Khan's Bollywood career.

13. Barfi!

Not many people know this, but Barfi was actually India's submission to the Oscars. This super cute tale of love between a deaf and dumb guy and an autistic girl won many hearts in the country. Also, Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra showed some explosive acting talent in this one. 

14. Court

This courtroom drama film examines the Indian legal system  through the trial of an ageing folk singer at a court in Mumbai. The film did brilliantly well at various international film festivals and even went on to win the National Award for Best Film. Watch it if serious kind of cinema is your cup of tea. 

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