JNU: All that anxiety and fuss

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I am amazed how things take turns, and get twisted in our country. How thinking varies with caste, community and gender. The thing that's unfair is equally unfair for every single individual. It can't be categorised or enhanced or reduced differently for different people.

This JNU thing has created an uproar. Actually, to the extent which, I think, was not necessary. This is a topic that I tried my best to avoid. But couldn't.

What happened?

It was not anything unusual for JNU. They are people with amazing energy. But, disturbance started with some slogans that some students were shouting (And there's no doubt about it). Slogans that were not in good taste, and certainly not in the favour of our nation. It doesn't mean that the whole JNU was burning in this "Aazaadi"thing. It's not that difficult to understand that it's not about entire JNU. It's about a bunch of destructive anti-social, anti-national (Not aunty-National) elements. 

Then, out of nowhere, strange voices emerge in support of JNU and the problem that reeked of danger, seemed to tamper the sense of security, takes a back seat. Some called it idea, freedom of expression and Brunch (Hindustan times) called it intelligence!

Well, idea is a broad term, and can cover various things. Anything. From something constructive to destructive. In a place like college/University, ideas must breathe freely but don't you think it should be "constructive ideas"?

Then, "Freedom of Expression". In India, this term has evolved massively. But again, I'd say, it's a constructive term, and one cannot get away with "I-Am-Free-To-Do-Whatever-I-Want-To-Do" attitude in the name of 'freedom of expression'. With this meaning, anything and everything can fall under this category. Even those posters against Kanhaiya Kumar. Can one approve that? Certainly NOT!

I somehow felt that targeting Kanhaiya Kumar was a kind of distraction. It is important to know that: If not him, then who? Nobody seems to know. Not even JNU leaders who speak in a signature tone and style. It is like that filmy crime scene that happens publicly but nobody accepts that he/she was present there and has seen that happen.

Supporting what has happened at JNU doesn't make one cool or supremely intellectual. It's a serious issue and needs to be investigated thoroughly. If everything is clean, what could be better than that?

It's not an unusual thing if someone tries to damage the peace and integrity of our country. It happens quite often and engulfs several precious lives. If anything seriously dangerous happens, everyone starts blaming the Government and our security system very conveniently.

And Now!

When Kanhaiya Kumar is back, everyone is behaving like he has returned from the Border after a huge victory. As if he is a freedom fighter and the Government is like British rulers. It seems that opposition has taken this term quite literally. They think their job is just to oppose. Anything is fair for political benefits. And, it's so immature of BJP to react to Kanhaiya Kumar's speech like this. Media is vying for his interview! (Well, one can easily understand the competition of coverage. If they can show live telecast of serious and dangerous attacks then it is cypher in that comparison! After all it's a number (TRP) game)

It seems that everyone is unnecessarily portraying his heroic picture. Something he might have expected. To evolve as a revolutionary or politician.

Who is he? Student? No comments. Politician? Maybe, and it's okay. Revolutionary? A good thing to be but someone please tell me what this revolution is all about? What is this fuss about "Aazaadi"? Which kind of Aazaadi JNU students seek?

Why would you un-follow people on Twitter? #SocialMedia

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Social media presence is kind of essential for people's profile these days. When I say social media, I mean Twitter and blog. I'm definitely NOT talking about Facebook. I'm not a bit interested in FB. I love my blog and I find solace on Twitter. Ironic, isn't it? But, chaos of twitter keeps me calm and distracted (for a while of course) from anxiety.

Readers are more important than followers. Those who read your posts and are kind enough to leave you comments. I have an average readership (It's amazing to see bloggers who get 40-90 comments every post! And I sometimes I feel like my words don't even exist, just like my FB page). It's so sweet of Rudraprayaga who visits my blog regularly, and I truly thank her for this!

So, basically, interaction is important.

Recently, I read This interesting Post On Social Media by Alok Singhal, and I couldn't agree more. Every point is so relevant!

Then today, Shailaja V, a wonderful blogger who covers various interesting themes, conducted a poll on Twitter. Why would you un-follow people on Twitter? She gave four options, and asked to add options that's missing. I added two more options. That acted like a prompt and I decided to write about it.

So here are the options.

People on Twitter Who -

Are Uninteresting: Interesting or uninteresting, it depends on individuals. A thing that is interesting/relevant for me may not be interesting for others. But yes, I don't want to follow (I may not un-follow though) those who constantly tweet their pictures. I mean who wants to know how you looked/what you wore/what you bought every morning. It is so Facebook-ish!

Or some tweets are just endorsements. It's okay as social media is a great platform for promotion but why can't you post something interesting (other than endorsement) for a change?

Or some just whine about single thing every single day. It's annoying.

Or spread negativity with their depressing tweets!

Don't Follow Back: I don't do this, honestly! I'm very selective and sure about my following list but when I follow people I don't expect a follow back (Of course it feels nice when they follow back!). I follow many people who don't follow me.

But people often do this, following with an expectation of follow-back (and un-following when you don't live up to their expectation). My followers number go like this: 499 to 501, then 499, 496, then 502...it seems like a number game.

Tweet too often: I don't mind this until tweets are interesting/informative/thoughtful. But, if it's constant endorsements (I got it you have just released your book) and frequent RTs (that's not relevant to me), it's irritating!

Hardly tweet anything: This is boring. Why would I follow people who don't tweet anything for several months or years? I want to un-follow them after waiting for few months.

Follow you (Get your follow back) and then un-follow!: This is mean. When I joined twitter, I saw a very famous personality whose followers and following number were same (more than a lakh). In fact he wrote in his profile "I always follow back". It obviously attracted his fans. Then one fine day, he decided to declutter his following list. Now he followed just 200-300 people and his followers remained the same.

Last year, someone (a well known writer) followed me. I followed him back out of courtesy even though I haven't read his books. Then one day, he thought I was not good enough to be followed and un-followed me. I was new on twitter and I found it mean so I too un-followed him. Just few days back, he again followed me. I didn't and guess what? He un-followed me within a day!

Never reply: This is rude. How busy you could be to not reply? Even Ratan Tata replies to the tweet sent to him (He did to one of my friends). One can understand if you are a celebrity but if you are not, what does it take to reply to your readers or those who are saying something to you?

I like Preeti Shenoy. The way she interacts with her readers (On her blog and social networking sites). People read your tweets or blogposts. Take time to write to you and you just leave them unanswered. This is simply not done. You must respect/value your readers! Interaction builds connection, sometimes really good and valuable connections.

So, what's your Social Media Peeves?

On Making Choices: My Take on #MyChoice Video

Initially, I thought to let it go but I just couldn’t. The churning thoughts in my mind seemed disturbing. 

I strongly believe that you should do everything you want to do until, until it’s not irresponsible, unethical, and illegal. Like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobaara! And, everyone has the right to live happily and at peace. You must make a strong choice for your happy, sober and peaceful life. 

But, I think My Choice Video by Deepika Padukone in association with Vogue India is slightly overrated, going overboard. It reflects ‘I-Don’t-Care’ attitude. It may provoke a certain attitude that a person may do something unfair, irresponsible and unjustified and just get away shrugging, saying ‘it’s my choice’. 

It may reflect the thoughts of actresses featured in the video but I don't think it actually represents WOMEN because discipline, responsibility and loyalty are universal concepts. I wonder if the makers actually think likewise (on every single point made in the video) or just being ‘cool’, going on a whim. 

I mean, of course we are free to make our choices but we must make wise and most importantly responsible choices, not just for us but for our dear ones.

Is every single point made in this video valid for men? Like coming home and going out whenever they want to. Or having sex outside a committed relationship? Or not giving a damn what you do, what you wear (Just minding his own business, doing whatever he wants). Not thinking which kind of upbringing their children need. No, Then women would stand up and shout about carelessness, not giving proper time (That I have to do everything alone), betrayal, ignorance… 

Same bunch of people, who are making and supporting each and every point of the video urgently, would talk about thoughtfulness, relationships and parenting and what not.

We can’t apply same theory everywhere.

It is not a race. It’s about you. The one who makes choices. We need to be sensitive, responsible and wise while making choices. 'Just' getting a chance to do ‘anything’, wearing certain kinds clothes, going anywhere, any time; not being responsible enough to tell your parents, partner, or even to your children your whereabouts; and, breach of commitment is not freedom. And it’s definitely not empowerment. Right to choose a desired education and career, fulfilling your dreams, is freedom, and a path to empowerment. Getting or rather extracting an opportunity /space to do something concrete, substantial and positive is empowerment! Compelling, thoughtfully and reasonably, people to believe you and your decisions (and proving your decisions right) is empowerment! You (Both men & women) don't necessarily need to do things mentioned in the video to get empowered.

You can't leave me. Really?

 

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“What would you do if I get into a steaming extra-marital affair?” A husband asks, casually.

The wife shrugs, unable to understand what to say. How to react.

“Why? Won’t you feel bad?”

“Of course, I would feel bad. I’d think what went wrong, but I won’t be able to live with you then.” The wife says.

“Can you live without me?” The husband asks.

The wife ponders. No. It’d be very difficult.

“You would leave me? How could you? You love me so much!” The husband says.

“Don’t you love me?”

“Yes, I do.”

“Then why are you asking such questions?” The wife says.

“Just asking.”

It may be a casual, frank conversation between a couple, but don’t you think there’s an indirect message hidden in ‘his’ thoughts. Maybe unintentional, but it reflects something. Don’t you think?

Sometimes, this thought can be the root of cheating or any other unfairness inflicted upon an average Indian woman. A thought “Where would she go?” “She won’t leave me in any circumstances.”

Why some men think their female partners won’t leave them even if they do something unjustified?

Because she loves his partner so much that she can’t live without him.

You love him and need/demand same level of love in return. You won’t accept betrayal and violence. Will you?

Because she is not financially independent and earning money is not that easy.

It’s not easy but you will educate yourself enough to be financially independent if circumstances demand. Won’t you?

Because she can’t raise the children alone.

Oh, really? You mean a mother can’t raise her children properly? What a joke! In India, men are so engrossed in their work that women usually do it alone. What do you say?

What people will say? In India everyone asks about the father.

It’s true. But you will make yourself confident and strong enough to challenge the society. Won’t you? They will understand eventually.

Because she would not want to hurt her parents.

Parents would get hurt for sure, but they would and they should support you in any circumstances. Marrying off a daughter doesn't mean she is no more. Don’t you think so?

She can’t live alone because people in the society tend to raise eyebrows at single/divorced women.

It’s unfortunately true. Especially in the middle class society. Maybe things are changing slowly but when will it change completely?

She will put her ultimate effort to save the marriage.

Yes, you will, but you will seek and expect the same effort from him. Won’t you?

Moving on to take a new start sounds inspiring but perhaps it’s not that easy. It takes a lot of courage. Remember, there’s always a new morning beaming with possibilities. Geared up with new start. A woman is very strong. Stronger than she thinks. A woman just needs to raise her spirit and a concrete step against unfairness. She can bring change.

Written for:  https://housing.com/   

Is comparing Narendra Modi’s married life with Gautama Budhha’s an offence?

Yesterday, I was having a political discussion with someone, which turned into a debate.

“How could Narendra Modi NOT mention his wife all these years? How could he leave his wife in the lurch?” The girl, I was speaking with, said.

“There are lots of people who choose to get separated (For various reasons). I think, it’s better than living in a bad, sad or abusive marriage. Many bollywood celebrities have left their wives for other woman and remarried. I think it’s their private affair and it should not be taken as a national affair.” I said.

“No, no. If a man cannot take care of his family and wife, how could he take care of our country? If he doesn’t respect his wife, how could he talk about the respect and security of Indian women?” She countered.

“If a man gets separated or divorced, it doesn’t mean he disrespects women. There could be many internal reasons that we do not know. It’s not like Mr. Modi had tortured and left his wife in the lurch and indulged himself in a steamy affair or remarried. If you see closely, even Gautama Budhha did the same.” I said as an example.

“Aree, ye aap kahan ki baat kahan le jaa rahi hain. Ye to ekdum alag baat hai. (Oh, you’re going off-track. It’s quite different.).” She sounded taken aback and raised her voice a little.

I don’t understand how is it different.

The other day, I caught a serial called “Budhha”, running on the television, in which Siddhartha (As Gautam Budhha) returns home, many years after he left. Everyone seemed delighted and ran to greet him at the entrance of the palace. But, his wife Yashodhara was so angry and upset with him that she refused to greet him and said, “Wo bina bataaye mujhe chhor kar chale gaye the, ab agar unhen mujhse milna hai to wo yahan aakar milen.” (He left us without saying a word. Now, if he wants to meet me, he should come here to meet me.)

Sidhhartha’s mother said, “Ab use maaf kar do, Yashodhara. (Forgive him now.)”

I don’t know how authentic this serial is, but if you think from the point of view of a wife and (especially) a little son, it is unfair. If you bring a child in this world, your prime responsibility is to look after her/him.

When we think about “The Gautama Budhha”, this act of unfairness becomes “sacrifice”. And since Narendra Modi (He might have his own reasons to leave a family life. Fair or unfair) is a politician, and now our PM, we can easily make his act of unfairness (From the point of view of Yashoda Ben. Oh, see the similarity in name!) whirl around as a national issue and declare it an offence.

Here, I’m not advocating Mr. Narendra Modi or his decision regarding his marriage. I cannot think of demeaning the stature of Gautama Budhha. I’m just expressing my thoughts and I want to ask you:

How these two decisions are different from each other?

And is comparing Narendra Modi’s married life with Gautama Budhha’s an offence?

Cultural Paradise

The world is full of vibrant colours and they make this world a beautiful place. But what if you're greatly associated with those vibrant colours and beauty yet they fail to add colours to your life?

Artists worship their art and they work hard to master their skill and put their ultimate effort to create a masterpiece. They attain immense satisfaction. People appreciate their work greatly. It indeed feels the artists with happiness and satisfaction. But does the mere appreciation fulfills your life?

I have started painting recently and realized it takes a lot of concentration and imagination and skill. I am a bad painter still simple words of appreciation inspire me. But I paint for my own pleasure and satisfaction because I simply like it you can say it's my hobby.

But what if art is a mode of living for some one?

 Artists of Raghurajpur, a cultural paradise in Puri (Odisha), earn their living from their art. They work hard day & night. Strain their eyes for minute work to create a beautiful peace of Art. They get appreciation and money too. But they deserve much more than they receive. They hide a dark story behind the beauty of their art.

There is always a mediator between them and their customers.  The customers who know the value of Art and are ready to give decent amount of money. But the artists feel cheated and defeated when a large portion of that handsome amount goes to the pocket of mediator.

Art lovers need to know these artists, working hard to add beauty to their life, to satisfy their art palate and should approach them directly so that the artists can earn what they deserve. They need a platform to showcase their work and to get nice opportunities. They indeed deserve recognition and their works must shine!

So Do Right. Some innovative approach would enhance their enthusiasm and would inspire them to make their life better.

This post is a part of Do Right Half Stories initiative by Indiblogger

Why Mr. Arwind Kejriwal disappointed me?

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Few years back, when I saw a movie Nayak, I found it very dramatic and impractical but on 28th December 2013, when Mr. Arvind Kejriwal took the oath as the Chief Minister of Delhi, it seemed surreal and the movie Nayak reeled in my mind again.

Arwind Kejriwal undoubtedly created a huge impact. Anna Hazaare was indeed the real face of 2011 Indian anti-corruption movement but I think, Arwind Kejriwal arranged and managed that protest so skillfully that it turned into a revolution.

We all know about the Indian Emergency Period 1975-77. Many of us have not witnessed that historical event but I think Jan Lokpal Andolan somehow recreated that effect to some extent. It was a rage for change and I salute the people of India especially Delhi for their energy that made this revolution a huge success! The whole aura said that “Yes, the condition of our country is surely going to change. Yes, that time has finally arrived.”

I’ve really admired Mr. Kejriwal for his thoughts, zeal, determination that reflected a genuine sense of patriotism. 

People started analyzing and judging him as the CM as the expectation was giant. People forgot about the last government and expected magical change from the new CM. Other political parties did not lose any chance to pull him down which was inevitable. I really thought it was too early to judge him and he needed some time to do something substantial. The pace he took for making announcements seemed effectual.

But now, when I/Delhites look back, we surely feel a bit confounded and disappointed. He somehow shattered the expectations and hope of so many people.

I wonder why Mr. Arvind Kejriwal disappointed me. I’ve analyzed that:

He goes overboard while making statements thus losing the credibility of his own words.

He said he won’t join politics ever, he made his own party in 2012. We thought probably it was a right thing to do so we totally ignored the alteration of his words.

He said he’ll ‘never’ give/take support to/of any political party. He made the government with the support of Congress, the most corrupt political party, according to him. Again, we thought it was the right thing to do and he must get a chance to bring some change. We ignored.

He said he won’t take ‘Sarkari Bungalow’ but he took one. We ignored as it was totally justified for a CM of Delhi. But now, even after resigning, he did not vacate it. I felt bad.

He said, he won’t contest LS elections, now he is planning to contest against Mr. Narendra Modi, hoping to create the magic as he did with Ms. Sheila Dixit.

He said he won’t give LS tickets to the sitting MLAs but now, Ms. Rakhi Bidlan gets one.

He went overboard while making promises.

Now, I can’t ignore.

He has the tendency to leave things midway and reflects instability.

I think, his resignation as the CM was very disappointing and irresponsible.

There’s a saying “Busy without Business”. Some people have the tendency to look very busy while they don’t do anything substantial. His 49 days tenure reminds me of that saying.

I don’t think he has done a commendable job as a CM. you may ask ‘what do you expect in just 49 days?’ I would say ‘who asked him to leave things midway and resign?’

It’s not that you have thought or said something and it has to be done right then and there. You have to be patient and should struggle and Mr. kejriwal knows that very well then what was the hurry?

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He just want to create uproar and instigates people to participate…always. People were always with him but a serious government doesn’t run by doing “Dharnas”. Being the CM of Delhi, his dharna and protest on Somnath Bharti’s case was again irresponsible and disgraceful. Action is always better than shouting!

He thinks ‘He is always right and everyone else is always wrong.’ His teammate and friend Mr. Kumar once said an idiom that ‘Jua khelna buri baat hain, main kheloon to aur baat hai’ it goes aptly with Mr. Kejriwal.

Moreover, the enthusiasm he shows regarding investigation against other political parties diminishes when it comes to his own party. He decides if they are wrong or right.

He makes false statements to glorify his deeds. 

He always accuses others, sometimes without any proof. Before joining politics, he had many documents as proof against corrupt politicians. Everything took a backseat when he got powers.

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He sometimes uses disgraceful language, following the footsteps of many other political leaders.

He said Republic Day Ceremony a VIP tamasha and later found sitting there among the VIPs.

He believes in show off.

His outer appearance! Yes, it matters, especially when you’re at a supreme designation. That irritating muffler. That oversized jacket! Huh! He is an educated, well-known, well-to-do personality. Being an Aam Aadmi doesn’t mean you can’t look presentable and tidy.

His regular takiya-Kalam "Main bahut chhota aadmi hoon. Meri koi aukat nahin hai." is hammering!

I have no interest in politics but I felt that Mr. Kejriwal made the Indian politics interesting. I started to track the ongoing movements of Indian politics during Delhi elections. He seemed different. He exhibited tremendous truthfulness and hope. People of India and Delhi extended tremendous support. He got a golden opportunity to shine and help India shine but I feel he missed that opportunity.

Let’s see what happens in Lok Sabha Elections.

Women and Marriage!

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Society expects

Marriage should be her main goal

Not her excellence?

"Now I invite Mrs. Naina Agnihotri on stage to receive the 'Shining Star Award' for her excellence in the field of Social Service and Awareness.' The host announces.

A graceful woman, wearing a beautiful lemon yellow sari approaches the stage with a decent smile on her face. The audience applaud and several cameras flash instantly.

Naina runs an NGO which works for the welfare of unprivileged children and women.

She looks at the audience and joins her hands and then receives that prestigious award. After thank you speech, she says "I'm not Mrs. yet." She gets off the stage, smiling.

She is about to sit on her chair when she hears a woman whisper. "You know, she is 36 and still unmarried!"




Written for: Magpie Tales
                  Haiku Heights
                  Haiku My Heart

My book "Uff Ye Emotions 2" (An anthology and I'm one of the contributors.) is getting wonderful reviews! Get your copyHERE  and share your views.

I'm participating in a writing contest. Read my story"Revolutionaries" HERE. Share your honest feedback and please vote for me if you like it!

Thanks!

People who deserve to be ignored

In a journey, sometimes blissful or troublesome, sometimes peaceful or sometimes challenging, sometimes exciting or just plain, called life, we meet some unselfish, compassionate, helpful and understanding people who touch our hearts and stay in our memories forever even if they are far or detached.

But there are some other people who also stay in our hearts but for other reasons. For their selfish, wicked, masked, arrogant etc. image. Such people don't deserve to be in your life or even memories. I think, you don't have to be rude. Just keeping a decent distance would be enough for your peace.

1. People who show that they are very helpful to you and they are trying their level best. Are they really?
    You can also keep fake friends in this category. Hundred enemies are cipher in front of a fake friend!

2. People, sometimes very close to you, pretend to be your well-wisher and show that they deeply care for you but actually mislead you indirectly. Enough for your shattered peace.


3. People who are too busy for you. Have you ever felt that you are the most easily available person for people but when you need them they are always busy? If someone actually cares for you, will try and manage time for you. Those who are too busy, don't deserve your attention.

4. Those who don't miss a single chance to bring you down, come to that in a sugar coated tone. Some people just can't tolerate to see anyone growing! Maybe due to sense of superiority complex or jealousy. Such people tend to injure your enthusiasm and discourage you. Don't listen to them. Staying away would be a good idea!

5. People who are nosy and tend to extract all the information from your life (And maybe spread to the world!). Dangerous people. Keep them miles away from you.

Be good and kind. It doesn't take much. 

You can't solve anyone's problem? No problem! At least don't create problems for them. That would be a great help!

For: Write Tribe Festival of Words Day 6

So, you are talking about people today! I would like to share that Uff Ye Emotions (An Anthology in which I'm one of the contributors) is going to release soon. I invite you to share your thoughts HERE on a very special and unconventional relationship (Other than romantic and close blood relation) that you nurture and cherish in your life. I would love to know your thoughts!

Kabaadiwaala

Image Source Morgue File 

Today is Monday. He gets up early and sits with the heaps of newspapers that he had collected yesterday as kabaadiwaala, to make paper envelopes. He has to deliver them today in the market. People say, there’s a ban on polythene bags.

It’s 9:30 am already. He gets ready and keeps the arranged paper envelops in a cotton bag. Then hoists his school bag on his back and heads for the market, hoping to be on time for his school.

There are some problems in life but he is grateful  at least he has got his right to education.


Written for: Write Tribe
                 

'Uff Ye Emotions' (It's an anthology and I'm one of the contributors!) is going to release soon. You can Pre-Order your copy HERE or HERE or HERE. 

Be safe, stay happy: Safety matters

Life is precious and we must have the liberty to live a happy, respectful and secure life.  Read my post for Smart Suraksha.

Apart from blaming the system and others for our safety and security, there are some safety tips we can follow.

Make sure your mobile is charged.

Keep the numbers of your close family and friends on speed dial. 

Don’t ever take lifts from strangers. A strict NO when an unknown person offers you a lift. 

No matter how scared you are, you personality should always reflect confidence.

Keep red chilli spray or any pointed thing like scissors with you.  If possible, get some self-defense training.

Be responsible. Keep your family informed about your travel/location. Keep talking to them periodically.

Note down the details of the vehicle you're hiring and message it to your family and friends.

If you have to travel alone at night, avoid 'cumbersome' clothes/accessories and luggage.

You shouldn’t just worry about outdoor safety. Be careful at home also. Get the security grill door installed with your main entrance so that you don’t have to open the door for unwanted visitors.

Last but definitely not the least, Be Alert...always!

I am sharing my Smart Suraksha Tips at BlogAdda.com in association with Smart Suraksha App.

You’re not alone

When I heard that she had been stabbed, the first thing came to my mind “God! She is pregnant!

She was expecting her first child. After taking rest for two months, she had to resume her job. She usually returned from the office by 7:30 p.m to 8:00 p.m, but that day, due to some emergency meeting in the office she was a little late. It was 9:30 when she disembarked from the bus and started to walk slowly towards her colony nearby.

The road was deserted. It was not unusual. That road was generally desolate at this hour and in six months living there, she was quite used to of it.

She was walking in her own thoughts. Her husband must have arrived before her today. At that very moment, she sensed someone following her. She couldn't dare look back and started to walk with hasty steps. She heard some rattling sound and couldn't resist looking back. She saw a rickshaw coming towards her. Feeling relieved, she continued walking.

Suddenly, someone grabbed her hand to snatch her handbag. How was she supposed to react? Obviously, she resisted and tried to shout for help. Right then, the other boy muffled her mouth tightly.

Finding her still resistant, they stabbed in her hand and back! She gave up and they ran away with her handbag (That obviously contained many important documents, debit card and money) and mobile phone, leaving her injured. Do we work hard and earn money for these greedy robbers? She cried and cringed in pain. But no one was there.

After sometime, she gathered some courage and trudged herself. Luckily, one of her neighbours was passing by and he was kind enough to help her.

She was now safe. Thank God the baby was safe but I kept wondering what if those monsters hit her stomach! I really wish she had Smart Suraksha with her!

Recently, newborn of a woman, very close to me, was admitted in Sir Gangaram Hospital. She stayed all day in the hospital to breastfed her baby and returned back with her husband who usually picked her up at eight at night (Fathers are not allowed to stay with the baby).

That day her husband called at the last moment that he could not come to pick her up due to some urgent work in the office. She had another child to look after, so she had to get back to home.

After several refusals, finally, she got an auto. After a while, the auto stopped at a marooned petrol pump. She remembered the Nirbhaya’s case and shuddered. She asked him to leave her at her home first but he said “What if the fuel runs out on the way”. She was not used to of travelling alone at night and had a very little idea about the route. Sometimes, your circumstances leaves you with no option.

Thankfully, she got home safely that day but what if the auto driver was wicked. She must have thought about something like Smart Suraksha and I wish she had Smart Suraksha with her.

Travelling alone at night has become the biggest risk any woman can take these days. But we should have the liberty to care about our own duties/problems/convenience, not the filthy mentality of some nocturnal monsters. So, I would say, in the present scenario, The Smart Suraksha App is a very important and thoughtful initiative. It’s an android application which at the touch of a single button sends your message of help along with your location (Even if the GPS setting of your phone is switched off) to five pre-chosen contacts on your phone. It aims at making the women feel safe. It can make them feel that “don’t worry, you’re not alone”.

I am participating in the Seeking Smart Suraksha contest at BlogAdda.com in association with Smart Suraksha App.

Freedom is...

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Freedom is…

Opportunity, to paint your life with colours of your own choice. Living life with your own terms…without the fear of any judgment and unnecessary interference, in a generous and and supportive society which doesn't pass/impose judgment on you (Especially for women…especially single women who are forced to stay in the tribulations of bad marriage and tolerate violence with their wrecked dignity due to our eccentric social structure).

Breathing your own little space, without any inhibition, in a relationship…

To be financially and physically independent

Right to learn new things without any boundaries

To express your opinion fearlessly

Liberty to make your own choice and decisions

And Above all, living with a sense of SECURITY

But freedom is not just grabbing a chance to do what you want or what comes in your mind without caring for others. Oblivious of your duties.

Savour the flavor of freedom with a prudent sense of responsibility…

Wishing you.... HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!!

Will you please keep Quiet?!!

 

You might have liked Kareena Kapoor as Geet in Jab We Met. Or a boy in a Vodafone Ad who talks a lot and says "Ladkiyaan Kitnaaaa Baat Kartin Hain Yaar!". Or Rj's on FM radio, whose job is to talk non stop. Or many other people in your surrounding who are very talkative.

BUT imagine...I mean JUST IMAGINE, you are sitting in a hospital for long hours.  Disturbed. Or tired. Or tensed. Or maybe in a normal mood. Desperately waiting for your turn. Maybe your appointment number is far behind as the doctor has arrived late.

AND Someone standing or sitting beside you is blabbering & blabbering & blabbering...just non-stop!! Talking just nonsense in high tone. Laughing stupidly at some irrelevant talks at regular intervals. Fidgeting a lot that it seems he/she may collide with you any time.  How would you feel? Wouldn't you want to ask her/him to just shut up?

Hospital is a place where, generally, most of the people are tensed or disturbed, tired or maybe in pain. You don't know about anyone's condition. Maybe, anyone can be feeling dizzy with happiness. Maybe anyone take high pleasure in talking and laughing nonstop, or couldn't resist/wait pouring his/her heart out, but don't you think one has to be careful about the environment around them and should check their behavior? Jabbering and laughing out loud at a place like hospital seems very-very irritating. Doesn't it?




 

Love your family, work and environment...

This post is again for Wish List Wednesdays, a creative prompt provided by Preeti Shenoy. Her fourth book The Secret Wish List by Westland has been released and doing really good.

Today's prompt is: I wish everyone loved....



You might have seen many cases on news channels or sometimes in your society when people don't care about their parents or sometimes they even discard them when they become old. Those parents who were so loving and caring. Who preferred their children's smiles and happiness to their own convenience. It's strange that even some siblings tends to lose the innocent bond of love when they grow up!

Some husbands don't care for their wives,those who sacrifice a lot to be with their life partner. Sometimes they're even careless towards their children.

Some family (members) don't bother to think lovingly or sensibly for a new girl who comes to mingle with them affectionately with lots of expectation, but they expect from her a lot.   A man who thinks his wife must care for his family with pure dedication but doesn't give any importance to his wife's family. Sometimes it's vice versa.

I wish everyone loved their families. Everyone must return the expected love, care and importance.

What about living in a clean and peaceful environment, surrounded by lush greenery? It's a bliss and we all love it. But to create such environment we should love our environment.  But you might have seen many people who don't care where they are throwing the garbage. They just want to clean their houses. Planting lots of trees and keeping your surrounding neat & clean is a nice way to make our environment blissful.


It is said that 'love what you do and do what you really love'. Whatever you say, overall, everyone should love their work. Work is an integral part of anyone's life. It needs discipline and it often fills people with frustration and tensions on daily basis. If you enjoy what you do, then work doesn't feel like botheration rather it gives you pleasure. It leads you to the road of success. It never makes you anxious, though you may have to work really hard. You seldom lose your composure while working and save yourself from bombarding people with anger and irritation. And being happy and spreading happiness is one of the best things you can do in your life!


Also Shared@ Theme Thursday


  

Few Things to Learn

This is my response to the creative prompt "Wish List Wednesday"provided by Preeti Shenoy. Her fourth book "The Secret Wish List" has been released and getting really nice reviews.

Today's prompt is: The one thing that I wish everyone should learn is...


Few things I wish everyone should learn:

To lend people in need or trouble a helping hand. A tender touch of assurance and a warm smile relent the anxiety and spread positive vibes. These days, social life is shrinking and people tend to stay oblivious to other's problem. But helping others always gives happiness.


To raise their voice against depravity, corruption and injustice. People tend to think "How does it matter to me?" It's unfortunate.  Most importantly, people must learn to speak, at least, for themselves, against any hideous behaviour towards them, so that no one can take undue advantage.


To fulfill their promises. When someone makes any promise, it naturally generates hope and sometimes in difficult situation relief & courage. It's depressing when hope shatters. So, don't make any promises when you're not sure about it. And if you do, try your level best to keep your words. Remember, a pair of hopeful eyes are looking at you with expectation.


To say a polite or sometimes a firm "NO"! It's really...really difficult but it helps you to stay away from many complexities. People must understand their priorities in life.

This shame is your pride

Image Link

Helpless pleading eyes and

Face suffused with fear

Don't affect you anyhow

Piercing shrieks never hit your mind

Trembling body reflecting aversion

Cannot resist your filthy intention

Girls are NOT your property

Why don't you understand the meaning of a firm NO?

You never think before crushing a girl's life
Her anguish and pain is irrelevant to you

Have you ever thought....

How any girl close to YOU might have felt?

No, you haven't

Because you may do this sinful act to her too

What provokes you in innocent little girls?

Or in weak old women?

You can't think beyond a body

A sense of repent never echoes in your heart

Your dirty fiend mind scheme for just a cruel act....

This shame is your pride

In your life...

This is the only thing you crave to perform

This is your dream

This is your goal

And this is what you want to achieve???

Tribulations of bad marriages and society: An article published in Alive

Marriage is something people call settlement. May be. Life may seem settled for someone who gets loving and caring life partner and a peaceful life. But in many cases (You can see many real life stories on television or can observe around your circle) married life is not very sweet (Or say it's bitter especially for women) and life becomes completely disturbed and troubled.

In many cases women are forced to compromise. To what extent? This question keeps hanging. Ups & downs and some normal argument are inevitable in married life but at some point suffering women must put a full stop in front of their tolerance level and learn to take some strong and wise decisions to lead the life forward peacefully. Else it could be painful or even dangerous. 

I think our society plays an important role.

I wrote an article on tribulations of bad marriage which got published in Alivemagazine (Delhi Press).

Shared @ Three Word Wednesday

Independence

How do you feel when you don’t have anything to do? I think bored. How would you feel if you have to depend on someone for your basic needs? Helpless I guess. How would you feel when you try but don’t get anything in life? Pathetic for sure.

Some people do try but fail. It evokes sympathy. Some people just want to do something in life but they don’t apply any effort. Instead they whine. It evokes irritation. And some people choose to be idle. They don’t want to do anything. Instead, they ask for. If they are crippled, then it’s okay but what if they are healthy and fit? It evokes anger. doing nothing is folly.

Today I saw a young healthy man on television whose family business was begging and of course they did not find any need of education. How begging can be a business? How anyone can lead his/her life with things provided by someone if he/she is perfectly capable to work? You can see many fit babas moving door to door asking for money.

You’ll be surprised to know that once I had met a highly educated, law graduate and married man who preferred not to do anything.  He was dependent on various people for everything. He left practicing law because he thought the society is filled with corruption.

‘Why don’t you use your skill and try to change the society? Why don’t you move a step ahead to spread loyalty and try to diminish corruption? After all you’re a lawyer.’ I thought. He cursed the system and society continuously. Moreover, he called himself ‘Social worker’. How can you lend a helping hand when your own hands need help? When you’re dependent.

I have seen many people who work despite their physical limitations emitting rays of inspiration. But I have seen some unfortunate people leading a dependent (Dependent for their basic needs) life due to their severe physical inabilities and helplessness. It is painful. But sometimes they are left with zero option.

You are privileged if you have abilities. Utilize your capability. We get only one life. You won’t get anything by just whimpering and cursing. People dream of achieving success. They work hard to achieve a substantial status in life. It’s a pleasure to achieve goals in life. Doing something substantial gives confidence. Doing your own work without depending on someone gives contentment. It reflects your strength, ability and independence. Independence is precious that offers happiness and fulfillment.