68 Pages Subscription: `.1100 p.a.

THE MAGAZINE FOR PRODUCTIVE AGEING September 2018 FOR PRIVATE CIRCULATION ONLY PASSIONATE KEEPERS OF HISTORY

q FLOWER THERAPY q CHARDHAM YATRA q TECHIE TURNS FARMER q LIFE AFTER RETIREMENT q DADA J P VASWANI: A TRIBUTE q DAAN UTSAV September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue FIRST WORD

hy is it that media reports about elderly abuse are on the rise? Is it because society the world over has Wbecome more psychologically violent? Is it because the elderly are seen as a burden? Or is it because the population of the elderly has been increasing dramatically? Researchers Huned Contractor say that all these and more factors are equally responsible for this disturbing state of affairs. The number of people 60 years and over in the globe was 673 million in 2005 and is expected to increase to 2 billion by 2050, thus giving birth to the term ‘the age of the ageing’. India, like many other developing countries in the world, is presently witnessing rapid ageing of its population. According to World Population Prospects, UN Revision, 2006, the population of aged in India is currently the second- largest in the world. There has been tremendous increase in the number of elderly population since independence in India from 20.19 million in 1951 to 43.17 million in 1981 and 55 million in 1991. According to the 2001 census, around 77 million people are above 60 years which constitutes 7.5% of the total population of the country. This number is expected to increase to 177.4 million in 2025. Link this with the fact that the traditional values and institutions are in the process of erosion and adaptation, resulting in the weakening of intergenerational ties that were the hallmark of the traditional family. As a report published in ‘Yojana’ points out, economic independence is also to blame. Push factors such as population pressure and pull factors such as wider economic opportunities and modern communication cause young people to migrate. Moreover, the impact that physical and psychological violence have on the health of an older person is exacerbated by the ageing process and diseases of old age. It is more difficult for the elderly to leave an abusive relationship or to make correct decisions because of the physical and cognitive impairments that usually come with old age. In some places, kinship obligations and the use of the extended family network to resolve difficulties may also lessen the ability of older people, particularly women, to escape from dangerous situations. Often, the abuser may be the abused person’s only source of companionship. At such times, efforts should be made to strengthen family care because the preferred source of support for the aged is still the family. . Under instructions from the Government of Maharashtra the use of plastic bags for inserting magazines is forthwith stopped. We are therefore directed to post the magazine without any cover, September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue with the label pastedDignity Dialogue on the magazine. September | 2018 LETTERS

Anger machines have replaced September 2018 VOL 23 ISSUE 09 Take Pride in your Management a valuable instrument of Parental Role beating clothes. People, n article authored by arents – what an take decisions as they who do not like to work in the V N Gopalkrishnan kitchen, can do gardening, amazing word! think fit. A P about anger mana-gement even if in a balcony pot. It’s a word that There are three was very informative. Weeding and digging are immediately connects factors we need to However, I would like excellent prescription to with someone that you keep in mind in our to add my personal vent frustration. Or take a can rely on without parental role: 1) Be prescription to manage sport to hit a ball – football, thinking. A majority a shield when a child anger – actually tried and tennis, squash any will do. of human beings have is in trouble, 2) Be a tested by me. I do not claim Even if you do not become the opportunity to be friend and help the to be absolutely calm all the a champion, you will get parents in their life. child when he or she is time, but I do manage to good exercise. That way, And once they take confused about taking stay so most of the times. As venting your anger will not on this responsibility, certain decisions, and the author has said in one lead to any regrets! it heralds the start of his tips, physical activity 3) Guide a child and Shobha Mathur of a new journey not rule over him or lessens stress. I vouch for that involves tough her. As parents, and it. Anger is a fierce emotion E-mail: shobham@ aspects such as the now grandparents, that unleashes a lot of yahoo.com proper upbringing enjoy every moment surplus energy. This needs Be a Good of the children, their of life either learning, to be expended in violent physical activity. That is education, social teaching or sharing Citizen why people hit out blindly stature, habits and and you will truly s a citizen of the or act hastily which begets attitude, religion, etc. realise the value of country we live in, regret later. I channel this A Every parent wants life and how precious we enjoy many privileges energy in a productive his or her child to it is. Don’t while away – the infrastructure, way. When angry, instead be the best in the time with the false roads, water supply, of taking it out on family world. Unfortunately, drainage and all that is prestige or ego that or others, I take it out many a times, despite necessary to live in a city. you know everything. in kneading any kind of their best efforts, Life is too short try But we should be aware of there are failures dough! Hit it as much as to play your role you want. our responsibilities too, when the children perfectly and allow the primary one being to do not measure up others to play their Or chop vegetables, pound pay our taxes on time so to expectations. I, role in a dignified spices. Kitchen is the most however, feel that our way. See things in the violent space in the home; duty ends with giving most positive way! use it to vent fruitfully! them the best of what You can release your we can offer and also Shubha Suresh frustration and anger quite providing them the E-mail: shubha@ legitimately. Work done freedom to be on spectrumconsultants. in the process is a bonus! their own feet and co.in Regretfully, washing

September | 2018 04 September Dignity | 2018 Dialogue Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 05 that the authorities can life after retirement. blind students, a journalist and indeed very cheap monitoring in ailments will suggest the right continue to provide us There is nothing to do and a scholar. I consider services. Nowadays, when like diabetes, heart specialist should any such with such services. Our once you retire. Yes, these years to be among caught in a situation attacks, blood pressure, treatment be required. responsibilities towards that is an often-heard my most rewarding of simple sudden flu etc.; he or she can be of S H Subrahmanian our family are exclusive lament. An important years, My friends were symptoms, nagging back immediate assistance in ones, for which we alone reason for the lament is responsible for my clearer pain, an unexpected treating minor infections; E-mail: mani@ are responsible. Good that practically no one, understanding of the rash — we search for a and a family doctor enablery.org conduct begins at home. especially someone in problems they faced and point of contact? Why? If we can keep our family position of power and how they coped. They, Because we have none Neither/Nor: Saying it Poetically! happy, the society will influence, is mentally literally, opened my who is our first help, a We are the in-betweens strangulating between life follow. Our family is ready to face the fact that eyes! I could no longer qualified one! A recent negating and death asserting where we get apprenticed. he, too, must retire one continue this activity due research study found that We are the in-betweens stifling between desire’s want With our neighbours, it is day. Many hang around to commuting problems. elders without personal and fulfillment wanting basically give and take. hoping for some crumb of Later, along with my wife, physician reported worse We reap what we sow and a sinecure will come his I got deeply involved in care experiences, rating We are the in-betweens struggling between dream’s a happy neighbourhood way. I personally know translation into English of a their overall quality of will and reality willing is conducive to harmony of a very senior officer few scholarly woks, mainly care substantially lower We are the in-betweens; neither loving, nor leaving; and peace in the simply disappearing from in Sanskrit. Reading has than those with a personal neither daring, nor denying; neither fettered, nor community we live in. his office on the day of been an abiding passion. I physician. When it comes freeing; neither rooted, nor releasing Remember, citizens make his scheduled retirement hope to continue the habit to healthcare quality of We are the in-betweens stumbling between capacity a nation and a nation will and then trudging the of buying about three older adults, a family and confidence be as good or bad as its corridors of power till he new books every month. doctor plays an important Stunted between desperation and discipline citizens are. got the order of extension! Honestly, there is no dull role. We are the in-betweens stuttering between On the other hand, I also day! Somesh Chandra There are many reasons: creativeness and compromise know one who, on the Kakar Gopalakrishnan he or she will be the first We are the in-betweens stuck up amidst scheduled day itself, took Sankaran and most easy point E-mail: Dragging traditions, clogging systems, sagging values the GT Express from of health contact; the kakarsomeshchandra@ Delhi to Chennai, his E-mail: geess@gmail. We are the in-betweens stranded between salted gmail.com com personal and family home town. health history will be thoughts and simmering projects. Life After On a personal note, I have Personal Physician known to the family We are the in-betweens stilted between Retirement never ever felt I was at a an Absolute Must doctor, which helps arrive A compelling urge for change loose end on retirement. at a proper diagnosis; a am a senior citizen, hose were the days And a confusing choice for direction In fact, for 10 years family doctor watches almost touching 88. when we had and relied We are the in-betweens suspended between the ideal I and more, I was doing T out for red flags and The excuse for this epistle on family physicians, — essential voluntary work: reading to can provide guidance in is your ‘First Word’ on with very reasonable And the multi-superfluous exigencies — practical time; he or she knows the psychological setup Shall we not spit out the gum, when the sweetness is gone According to a notification issued by the Income Tax Department, as per Section 35AC of the of your whole family, Finance Act, 2016, no deduction shall be allowed in respect of any assessment year commencing at times privy to many Or keep on chewing, just for the sake of chewing? on or after April 1, 2018. As such, 100% tax exemption that was available for all donations to dementia care has now been withdrawn. However, donations made to Dignity Foundation will be secrets; a family doctor Kusum Gokarn eligible for 50% of the amount under Section 80G. can help in constant E-mail: [email protected]

06 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 07 68 Pages Subscription: `.1100 p.a.

THE MAGAZINE FOR PRODUCTIVE AGEING September 2018 FOR PRIVATE CIRCULATION ONLY COVER STORY 10

68 Pages Subscription: `.1100 p.a. THE PASSIONATE KEEPERS OF

THE MAGAZINE FOR PRODUCTIVE AGEING September 2018 HISTORY FOR PRIVATE CIRCULATION ONLY PASSIONATE KEEPERS A life-long passion of OF HISTORY collecting unique things is now serving these seniors well – not only keeping them fruitfully occupied but also helping them

q FLOWER THERAPY to network with society 47. LIVING HAPPILY 58.A MEMORABLE FLIGHT q CHARDHAM YATRA q TECHIE TURNS FARMER q LIFE AFTER RETIREMENT while inspiring a younger generationSeptember | 2018 to take up suchDignity Dialogue q DADA J P VASWANI: A THEREAFTER TRIBUTE q DAAN UTSAV September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue hobbies. Dignity Dialogue brings forth the stories 49. JUST MIND IT! of some collectors from Pune, while looking forward to profile many such collectors from the rest of the 51. SUICIDE IS NO country in our subsequent issues SOLUTION 52. CLEARING THE PATH AHEAD

62. BOOK REVIEW 64. DF UPDATES 19. MUSCLE LOSS: WHY 66. LAST WORD DOES IT HAPPEN?

29. TECHIE TURNS 37. MAKING MERRY 21. KEEP WALKING! FARMER IN MACAU 32. DADA J P 42. A CAPTIVATING VASWANI: A MAN 55. THE JOY OF 23. HEALING WITH ‘CHARDHAM’ OF PEACE GIVING FLOWERS EXPERIENCE 35. THE MOTHER OF MANY 25. NATURAL RELIEF FROM ARTHRITIS REGULARS PAIN Letters 4;

08 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 09 that I have achieved 95% of the quality The Passionate of original Japanese dolls.” However, these are not dolls for children to play with. “They are show dolls used for Keepers of History display in homes, etc,” he explains. A life-long passion of collecting unique things is now serving these Now, Sathe has gone one step further. seniors well – not only keeping them fruitfully occupied but also helping On the suggestion of a friend two years them to network with society while inspiring a younger generation ago, he has ventured into making Indian to take up such hobbies. Dignity Dialogue brings forth the stories dolls representing the myriad cultural of some collectors from Pune, while looking forward to profile many facets of our country. Thus, among his Japanese dolls collection you will find a Maharashtrian such collectors from the rest of the country in our subsequent issues ‘lavani’ dancer, a Bharatnatyam dancer, a Rajasthani farmer, a Bengali woman Getting Dolled Up the art of doll-making in order to get wearing her saree in her typical ethnic ack in 2007, when Jayant Sathe, then married. Ornaments are not a part of style, and so on. “Out of the 1,000 dolls B73 years’ old, wanted to hang up his the Japanese culture. Instead, they I have made so far, about 50 are Indian. boots and close his factory that churned emphasize on hairdo and that is exactly I now plan to focus more on making out nuts and screws, he went in search of what the dolls flaunt too. When I Indian dolls because the demand for new boots – small ones, which he could started making the dolls, I studied a lot them is huge, and increasing,” he says. fit on the feet of dolls. Sathe was going of literature and photographs about the Sathe holds an exhibition every year to to shut one enterprise and open another costumes that Japanese women wear showcase the dolls where most of them – one that he had desired to for a long as also the accessories. I can now say get sold out. time but hadn’t had the time or space for it. He was going to make Japanese A Crush for Coins dolls just as the Japanese do. “I had been hen Shrinivas Bhat’s mother gifted 8, 1939 at Dharwad in Karnataka, Bhat yearning for more than 30 years to devote him the first coin issued by India has also collected a set of coins named myself to making these dolls. Now, after W after independence in 1947, he was just as the 50 State Quarters Programme of having done my duty to my family with Jayant Sathe, the maker of Japanese dolls eight years old. But it triggered off in the US wherein the US Mint, in a 10- a successful engineering business, I felt I him a fascination for coins that has now year program, started issuing five state should no longer keep myself away from be sold. The process took a long time led to a huge collection of more than quarters (25 cents) every year from 1998 what I really wanted to do,” says Sathe. because there were two things I wasn’t 5,000 pieces. This has repeatedly earned to 2008. A mechanical engineer by profession going to compromise on – the quality him a mention in the Limca Book of Through a series of circulating quarters, the who had also started another unique of the dolls and the authenticity,” he Records right from 2004. The collection programme aimed to honour the 50 states parallel enterprise to make craft kits recalls. To his surprise, all the 35 got sold includes 1,160 coins on wildlife from that form the US. “The quarters depicted for school children, Sathe’s moment of off when he put up a small exhibition to 172 countries, bi-metal coins from 157 some specialty of that state, such as natural action to start making dolls was triggered display them. countries, and general coins from 342 or man-made landmarks, landscapes, after he saw some cheap Chinese-make Talking about the unique art, Sathe says, countries. It also comprises sets of coins historically significant buildings, symbols Japanese dolls that certainly weren’t “Japanese dolls are an irreplaceable from ancient India, Mughal India, the of state resources or industries, official made to perfection. “I decided then that part of the culture in that country. Maratha rule, the princely states, and the flora and fauna, and state icons,” he I would start off by making 35 dolls, In fact, there was a time when it was period of British rule. Born on January explains. Bhat completed his schooling hoping that at least five of them would mandatory for Japanese girls to know

10 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 11 and devoting all my time to my hobby,” Some of the interesting ones are those Bhat says. of Pan American World Airways and Vasant Apte exhibiting his card collection And it’s a hobby that does require time also remnants from British Overseas and effort. “I have to constantly network Airways Corporation (BOAC), a former with friends, relatives, coin dealers and British airline. There were also some others to source coins that are not in my from the Emirates’ early days when collection. They also have to be maintained they had bought their first jet. Another properly in plastic folders with special interesting theme is that of modes of transport. These include sports cars Shrinivas Bhat and his son Punit with their holders,” he adds. The interesting thing collection is that this passion has now gripped his and even cycles. All of Apte’s friends thus creating an amazing stock of son Punit too who has secured a mention knew about his quirky obsession and cinema-themed cards. “I had a friend helped him by adding some to his in Mumbai who was associated with from Basel Mission School at Dharwad in the Limca Book of Records since 2005 collection. During the yesteryears, the films, and had a good rapport with and then obtained his postgraduate degree for his amazing collection of 501 sealed film industry would use the cards as stars like Shammi Kapoor. He used to in commerce from Karnataka University miniature liquor bottles, 200 metal a great tool for merchandising. Apte get me these things because he knew of before moving to Pune in 1963. “I started Ganesh idols, and over 500 lapel pins would lay his hands on the collection, my hobby,” he says. my career with Advani Oerlikon. Later featuring sports, airlines, and countries. I joined Morris Electronics and worked Born on October 4, 1970 at Pune, Punit there for 18 years till I left it in 1984 to start grew up watching his dad painstakingly All for Art my business of manufacturing chemicals build up his collection of coins and that f at all you are searching for some of of paintings. And though it started such as manganese sulphate till the time is what drove him to try out something Ithe rarest paintings from across the merely as a hobby, it soon turned into we shut it down in 2007. I am now retired similar on his own. world, look no further than the home a consuming passion, thereby turning of Dominic Corda. He is not an artist his home into an art gallery where all art aficionados are more than welcome. Caught up with Cards “You name the artist and I will provide asant Apte has a treasured collection Cut to 2018, where, he proudly displays the art piece by that artist. I have always Vthat would make casinos in Las his collection of whopping 6,500 cards. been picking up unique things and this Vegas envious. He has 6,500 playing The cards range from every conceivable collection is the result of one such hobby cards, the first of which was picked up theme possible. “Since I was in the of mine,” says Corda. The 140-year-old in 1960. And guess how did it all start? merchant navy, I had friends from rare photographs by Sorabji Jehanjir, He credits his collection to buying a whom I could source things. I have one who was the chief magistrate of Baroda, railway pass for his daily commute particular card stack that is plated with is one of his all time favourites and has while in Mumbai. “I was buying my 24-carat gold and I got it from a friend great historical value among art lovers. monthly railway pass at Andheri who went to Hong Kong for work,” he He also has a huge collection of movie station, and the man at the counter gave informs. Most of the cards that he has posters which is a rare sight today. Small the pass in a cover, which had one of sourced are from waste paper depots. wonder then that his collection has often those random cards. That was the first “Other people would throw away some Dominic Cord and his collection been termed Ali Baba’s treasure! “My card I ever collected,” he recalls. It was of these cards because they considered aim is to promote art. Therefore I try since that day that he started adding them garbage. But those vendors himself but his love for the art is simply to organise exhibitions so that people playing cards to his collection. Despite knew me and would specifically bring astounding. Popular among rare art become aware of such paintings,” he being professionally absorbed, Apte me these things. That has immensely collectors, Dominic has earned a name says. Such efforts have been remarkable made sure he gave his hobby enough increased my collection,” he says. for his eye and precision in his selection in their own way. For instance, for time and attention. 12 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 13 after his disappearance. mention in the forthcoming edition of crew, stills and even lyrics. “With a Diploma in Fine Arts from the Guinness Book of World Records. Designed to attract, they were soon Government College of Art and Craft, “Meanwhile, the American Biographical relegated to the dustbins once the films Calcutta, Kundu started out as a teacher Institute has presented me with a gold were released and reviewed. But Phadke at a school for the deaf and dumb. His medal and has also appointed me on is one person who has safeguarded creative psyche was scarred by stories from their advisory board,” Phadke informs. them. “It’s a pity that everything has the Bengal famine in 1943 and the war, “It’s just that I fell in love with cinema at become so digitalized now. Booklets and and the result was pen-and-ink sketches a very young age and started collecting posters are not printed any more. All the of deeply anguished, frail and brooding all this as a hobby. My family members publicity is done through the Internet, figures. Undoubtedly marvelous, his thought I would outgrow this rather mobile phones, and so on,” Phadke rues. works do carry the sinister shadows of a strange passion after my teenage years Some of the booklets in his collection years, Corda has been collecting artist deeply disturbed mind. Later, Kundu put and then marriage but so strong was are gems such as that of ‘Navrang’ Dilip Kundu’s paintings and researching up a few solo shows in Kolkata that got the bond that I just kept collecting, and which is a double-fold booklet showing about his work. The 1943-born artist him much attention and appreciation. collecting,” he says. Phadke’s collection actress Sandhya’s two faces as shown mysteriously disappeared in 1966, But he went missing in 1966 and no one includes issues of ‘Film India’ from 1933 in the film or of ‘Mother India’ which and ever since, there has been no news knows where he is or what happened that and booklets of films now lost in time. is a masterpiece of sorts with double- of him. There is no record of Kundu’s made him abandon everything and go A practice that is not in vogue now, film spreads of paintings on canvas. “For me, work having entered the market away suddenly,” says Corda. booklets were once a part of the publicity the world of films is a fascination that will material that distributors produced to never fade away. It’s something that has Charmed by the Movies generate interest and awareness about also kept me occupied in my spare hours ven today, when he is past his 80th films. They contained all the relevant so that I have always remained active Ebirthday, Narayan Phadke finds information about a particular film, and excited about adding something to something to add to his collection. It including the synopsis, cast, technical the collection,” he says. could be a poster of a newly released film, an autographed picture of an actor, Click and Freeze a booklet of songs, or a signed letter arid Sheikh’s love for the camera and welcomes you at the door, and then from a known film personality. He just Fby extension, photography knows no you walk into a world of cameras and doesn’t tire of this passion that first bound. His passion is to collect every witness their evolution. gripped him about 56 years ago. And possible camera ever made and the This includes the oldest camera series with such regularity has this been going museum is his Holy Grail. It all started in called Novelty, which was made 200 on that Phadke now has a collection Narayan Phadke with awards received for 1968 when he was only 12 years old and years ago, to the latest DSLRs, from of 700 posters, 8,500 booklets, 4,000 his collection of movie posters his father gifted him a vintage folding photographs, 4,000 autographs, and camera. After clicking some good shots, more than 3,000 signed pictures which, this rare collection,” he states wistfully. his father recognised Farid’s talent and due to lack of space at home, have been It’s an idea no one wants to fund. This further trained him in photography. crammed into a loft in the office of M R is why Phadke is now worried about Today, that camera sits amongst 3,000 Joshi & Co, the place where he has been what will happen to all his efforts. So cameras at his home that is also a working since the past three decades. unique is Phadke’s treasure trove that museum of sorts. Believed to be Asia’s It’s a company that sells paper. his name has consistently figured in the largest collection of cameras, Sheikh has “I would like to build a small museum so Limca Book of Records for six years and gathered cameras from across the globe. Farid Sheikh and his cameras that cine buffs can come and appreciate he is now hopeful that he shall find a A 35-mm cinematography projector

14 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 15 cameras made of cardboard and wood collection ranges from a camera which profession and a poet by passion. Most of to the metallic models of today. Sheikh worked on thin metal plates called ‘film his poetic work revolved around historical served as the official photographer packs’ and could shoot six pictures at a issues and out of his love for heritage and of Indian Army and the governors time to a series of 150-year-old Kodak history, he started collecting artefacts and of Maharashtra. “Nowadays, it is cardboard box cameras, which can take objects of antique value.” It’s a passion the world of digital cameras and not only vertical pictures to a Kodak Baby that he has inherited. many people care about film cameras Brownie. The highest amount he has For Ranade, it is also his tribute to his anymore. I feel the old cameras had a paid so far for a camera is Rs 6 lakhs grandfather’s mission. Ranade has realised different level of precision, unmatched for a Rollei SLR 8008, bought from Sri his grandfather’s vision of propagating the by the new cameras.” he says. His Lanka in 1991. nation’s rich culture and history through automation and digitized library the 20,000 square feet museum. “What management, I have also created a first- Archiving a Legacy matters most for me is the fact that I have of-its-kind graphic and multimedia studio tocking a pan-Indian collection of reveals the decadent lifestyle of maharajas been able to carry forward the 100-year- at the museum for academic work, making Sroughly 20,000 products—ranging in the 18th century, and music lovers old legacy that would have remained presentations for visitors as well as for from musical instruments, Indian will appreciate the gallery dedicated traceless, had it not been my grandfather’s designing and printing of the museum’s paintings, sculptures and woodwork, to determined archiving and preservation,” exclusive range of merchandise,” jewellery, puppets, writing instruments he stressed. According to him, India is still Ranade informs. “Since a major chunk and textiles—the Raja Dinkar Kelkar bereft of the awareness and importance of our visitors are young, it has become Museum is a bottomless pit of practical of preservation and archiving, be it imperative to take help from the social objects used as part of daily Indian life. with regard to films, artefacts, books or media — with voice-overs in English and Everything inside the museum was artworks. Staying abreast with the Marathi for audio tours, blogs and mobile painstakingly collected over a period of changing times and coping with the best apps,” he adds. The biggest challenge, about 40 years by Dr. D G Kelkar, who practices in accounting and conservation however, is dealing with the paucity of wanted to create a centre for all things have been the primary concerns for funds. But Ranade still dreams of moving artistic. The ground floor houses a large Ranade. to a much bigger place. “It will happen,” display of household vessels from the to musical instruments, including the he says. . 18th and 19th century, while another floor personal instruments of some famous “Not only have I streamlined office is dedicated to idols of Ganesha, Shiva musicians like P L Deshpande and Ustad Passionate Collections: The DF Show and Parvati along with a manuscript and Kadarbaksh Khan. Titled ‘Passionate Collections’, Dignity Foundation had showcased in Mumbai, paintings depicting scenes straight out of One room houses a recreation of Mastani Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai and Pune for three consecutive years, starting 2012, a the ‘Ramayana’. Yet another collection Mahal – built back in 1734 – replete with physical collection with the collectors standing at the stalls to narrate their history colourful paintings and chandeliers to of how such a collection came about. It was visited by thousands of adults and evoke a sense of luxury. Dr. Kelkar died children. in 1990, but his life’s legacy lives on in the museum because his grandson Sudhanva Write about Collectors Ranade has kept the legacy alive. Despite Dignity Dialogue would like to run a series of articles feature seniors who have having studied printing technology and devoted several years to building up a collection of unique items – coins, stamps, marketing management, Ranade is more paintings, vinyl music records, books, photographs, matchboxes and whatever than adept at museology. Art runs in his else. If you know of such a person in your city, send us his or her profile in about Sudhanva Ranade and the artefacts at the blood, he said, adding, “My maternal 400 words along with 2-3 good quality photographs. E-mail your articles to: museum grandfather Dr. Kelkar was an optician by [email protected]

16 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 17 Muscle Loss: Why Does it Happen? Muscle protective systems could reduce frailty in old age, states a research report published in the Journal of Physiology ccording to Physiology, suggests that is most successful in new research muscle wasting follows older adults with large, Apublished rec- on from changes in the healthy muscles. When ently, there is now nervous system. By the the internal protective an explanation about age of 75, individuals mechanism is not why people experience typically have around successful and nerves are muscle loss in old 30% – 50% fewer nerves unable to send out new age, increasing the controlling their legs. branches, it can result prospects of reversing This leaves parts of their in extensive muscle the condition in the muscles disconnected loss. This can result future. As people grow from the nervous in a condition called older, their leg muscles system, making them ‘sarcopenia’, which become progressively functionally useless affects an estimated 10% smaller and weaker, and so they waste - 20% of people aged leading to frailty and away. However, healthy over 65 years. disability. While this muscles have a form The researchers do process inevitably of protection, in that not yet understand affects everyone living surviving nerves can why the connections long enough, until now send out new branches between muscles and the process has not to rescue some, but nerves remain healthy been understood. This not all, of the detached in some people and not new research, published muscle fibers. This in others. The race is in the Journal of protective mechanism now on to use this new knowledge to delay old- age weakness by either slowing the decline or by increasing the success of nerve branching to rescue detached muscle fibers. The research carried out by Manchester Metropolitan Uni- versity in conjunction

18 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 19 with University of Waterloo, Ontario, Keep Walking! and The University of Manchester, involved At a certain age, when you obviously don’t using MRI to gain want to join a gym or cannot take up strenuous a detailed look at exercises, walking can be the best option the muscle tissue, to remain fit, suggests V Anand Kumar V Anand Kumar followed by enhanced electromyography to ome millions of Next to food, water and walking. record the electrical years ago, man, sleep, walking is an • Heart: Walking activity passing through Scalled Homo sapien essential thing for all helps reduce the blood the muscle to estimate then, lived on trees and people to live a healthy pressure and supplies nerve branching to rescue the study lead author the numbers and the in caves and walked life. Nowadays, doctors adequate amount of detached muscle fibers who has since taken up a size of surviving nerves on the ground with his recommend going for a blood to the heart, thus and thereby reduce the position at the University available to rescue two legs, and therefore walk in order to live a reducing the risk of a numbers of older people of Nottingham, said: muscle fibers. called a ‘biped’, meaning disease-free and stress- heart attack. in our neighbourhoods “One of the earliest having two legs. Living free life. Especially for • Brain: Blood The researchers are with low muscle mass attempts at research thus, and mostly in people who are obese flow increases to the currently looking at and muscle weakness. similar to ours showed forests, the style of and diabetic with brain and its functions whether regular exercise in Right now in Europe results from a small walking was more like disorders like blood become sharper. middle and older age slows there are at least 10 group of older people that of an ape. However, pressure, walking is the • Eyes: Eyes get the process of muscles million older people with who apparently had just gradual transition took best therapy to get rid of energy as we are becoming disconnected low muscle mass, which a couple of surviving place and from this ape- such ailments. vigilant during walking from the nervous system, is a medical condition nerves feeding into a like walk he started to and they get good or improves the success of Benefits of Walking known as sarcopenia. foot muscle. When we walk upright on his feet. blood supply, thus nerve branching to rescue They are at higher risk of started out with our Since then he has been All our organs such as warding off diseases detached muscle fibers. social isolation, falling, research we were very walking to live and to heart, brain, eyes and like glaucoma. The goal is to identify the bone fracture, disability skeptical of the old data carry out many tasks for our body parts like feet, • Hips and Back: best type of exercise— and hospital admission. and thought it was an his living and has to walk knees and arms derive Walking reduces strength training or Weakness makes them anomaly of out-dated until he meets his death. immense benefit from hip traction and endurance—and to particularly vulnerable testing procedures. strengthens the understand the physiology to falls in bad weather, However, now that we backbone. of why the nerve-muscle as we have had in recent have tested a couple of • Legs: Movements changes occur as we get weeks. Our research hundred men we think while walking lower older. helps to explain why the early observation the risk of blood clots Professor Jamie McPhee, muscles decline with was probably correct. in legs. the senior author on the advancing age and this We have also observed • Knees and research, commented on new knowledge will help some very old muscles Feet: There are many the significance of the in the search for effective with just a few dozen acupressure points findings: “Our challenge countermeasures.” nerves left, where young in our feet and they now is to find ways to Dr. Mathew Piasecki, and healthy adults have get pressurized while increase the success of hundreds.” . walking, which also 20 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 21 helps to reduce load on sickness, dehydration, other joints. The knee heart attack or stroke Healing with joints get lubricated. which may happen at any • Arms: While stage irrespective of age. walking we move People with certain Flowers our arms and our ailments like epilepsy Aparna Ray, who practiced aromatherapy shoulder muscles are or low blood pressure for many years, writes about how flowers strengthened. are advised to be extra have the power to cure many an ailment For good sleep at night and more fresh and cautious while walking. walking is essential. rejuvenating. They should avoid going hat is flower part of the plant, therapy? flowers have a lot of life Walking stimulates Precautions for a walk without a our digestive system; companion. According It is one of force energy. Flower It is advisable to wear W the food gets digested to a recent study, for a the most natural and medicine is powerful bright-coloured clothes quickly and we person who walks for at universal ways to heal and effective for while going for a walk maintain a good least two hours a week, through the power of mind, body and spirit. The White Yarrow in during the day hours appetite. For people there is a 40% chance plants. Don’t we, with Depending on which and light-coloured attire flower oils are calendula who want to reduce of keeping any ailment the help of flowers, flowers you are using, during the late evening and dandelion. Dried weight, try walking away. And of course offer happiness, and how you are using hours. This will ensure flowers and plant parts daily and at least for 45 walking decreases the congratulations, them, they will primarily visibility to motorists. have to be used for teas minutes continuously. risk of hypertension, symp-athy, love and work on a physical level Wear comfortable and infusions. Otherwise For seniors who heart disease and obesity. friendship with each or an energetic level. walking shoes and loose the cell walls remain cannot indulge in As Thomas Jefferson, other? These gifts of For example: stress- garments. Avoid talking intact and no nutrients any other physical erstwhile president of nature have the power to relieving herbs taken on the cell phone while or constituents escape exercise, walking is the US, put it, “Walking heal, inspire, and touch as tinctures or tea work walking. If you are in the into the water. Drying the best suggestion is the best possible our hearts. Just being in because they calm habit of listening to music breaks the cell walls. and it doesn`t require exercise. Habituate the presence of flowers the nervous system. through earphones, Teas are sipped for any physical strain yourself to walk very touches our spirits. The result is a more keep the volume at the enjoyment, relaxation unlike other exercises. far.” And finally, it is Whether we experience relaxed mind. Flower minimum so that you can and medicinal benefits. For people who want not necessary that you them as a gift of nature oils and ointments are hear car horns and other Infusions provide to keep their blood must walk only a jogging along a country road, helpful for external use. warning sounds. While the added benefit pressure and sugar track. The beauty of in our gardens, or by They may be used for crossing look at both sides of supplying easily levels under control walking is that it can be receiving or giving a wound healing, relaxing of the road and ensure absorbed vitamins and and people who are done anywhere, as for gift of flowers, these muscles, acne and more. that there is no sudden minerals. Flowers are stressed, there cannot example, exploring a new beauties are a welcome They are made from onrush of traffic or errant commonly used in teas, be a better therapy city during your travels, and positive addition to fresh or dried flowers riders getting in the way. but not so much in than walking. An in your neighbourhood, our lives. It is no wonder infused in a carrier oil. And while walking is infusions. early morning walk in shopping malls or that flower therapy is an A good carrier oil such as definitely recommended is better as compared in the local park. The age-old form of healing. olive, jojoba, apricot and Essential oils are usually for people of all ages, you to the evening hours bottomline is: walk to Types of Flower grape seed may enhance made from the steam- should be cautious about since the morning increase the wealth of Therapy the benefits. Two extracted volatile oils of any health risks like heart air is less polluted your health! flowers and other parts. . As the reproductive wonderful medicinal

22 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 23 When you pick up the emotional, mental and and choose flowers that scent of flowers in the spiritual energy levels. make you feel good when Natural Relief from air, it is nothing but their If a physical healing you look at them or smell volatile oils escaping. happens, it is usually them. Whether you take Molecules enter the because a related core essence drops or sit Arthritis Pain blood stream as you issue is released at one with a living plant, your While conventional medical treatment for arthritis comprises inhale. They can also be or more of those levels. vibration raises to match painkillers, there are some natural ways that can help absorbed through your There are different the vibration of the you deal with the pain, suggests Dr. A N Shekhawat skin. Aromatherapy systems of flower plant. As your vibration primarily heals on a essences. Bach remedies rises, negative states fall rthritis is a group cause side-effects, and weight loss. Regular physical level. Certain are the most well-known. away and shift to more of painful and a natural approach to movement helps to flowers and resins, such The Flower Essence positive ones. degenerative pain relief is becoming maintain flexibility in as frankincense and Repertory profiles the A Here is an example: conditions marked more popular. However, your joints. Weight- jasmine, are sometimes Bach remedies and Yarrow offers flower by inflammation in remember to consult bearing exercises such used as vibrational many other flowers therapy physically and the joints that causes your doctor before trying as running and walking remedies for spiritual as well. Each flower emotionally. On the stiffness and pain. these natural remedies. can be damaging. healing, energy healing, in a system is linked physical level, white Osteoarthritis, the Lose Weight Instead, try low-impact or raising the vibration to specific emotional, yarrow relaxes smooth most common type of exercises such as water Your weight can of a space. Rose, jasmine mental and spiritual muscles, making it good arthritis, gets worse with aerobics or swimming to make a big impact on and lavender are three states. You introduce for cramping in the age and is caused by wear flex your joints without the amount of pain flowers that make flower the energy signature digestive tract and uterus. and tear over the years. adding further stress. you experience from therapy a joy because of of the flower and those It may reduce fever when Rheumatoid arthritis is arthritis. Extra weight Hot and Cold their heavenly smelling positive qualities into taken internally because caused by the immune puts more pressure on Therapy healing essential oils. your energy field with it makes you sweat. system attacking the your joints — especially Simple hot and cold Flower essences are each dose. Yarrow is astringent and joints as if they were your knees, hips, and treatments can make vibrational healing Whether in field or helps stop external and foreign tissues. Because feet. Reducing the stress a world of difference remedies because they garden, flowers offer internal bleeding, which of this, rheumatoid on your joints by losing when it comes to primarily work on the the same benefits as made the tincture a arthritis is classified as weight will improve arthritis pain. Long, essences. You can benefit popular remedy for heavy an autoimmune disease. your mobility, decrease warm showers or baths from the vibration of a menstrual bleeding and Doctors traditionally pain, and prevent future — especially in the flowering plant just by nosebleeds. It is a natural treat arthritis with damage to your joints. morning — help ease sitting in its presence. antiseptic and antibiotic anti-inflammatory stiffness in your joints. Ask for mental and for infections inside medications and Exercise Use an electric blanket emotional healing, open the body and out. Make painkillers. However, There are more benefits or moist heating pad at your heart, and meditate an infusion of yarrow some medications to exercise than just night to keep your joints on its positive qualities. flowers and drink to loose. Cold treatments Find this information in help relieve congestion are best for relieving a book or online source. and stimulate digestion. joint pain, swelling, and Better yet, let your Also use the infusion as inflammation. Wrap a intuition guide you to a a wash for eczema, oily Good health with flowers gel ice pack or a bag flower. Visit a nursery skin and wounds. .

24 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 25 of frozen vegetables in Massage a towel and apply it to According to the painful joints for quick Arthritis Foundation, relief. regular massaging of Acupuncture arthritic joints can help Acupuncture is an reduce pain and stiffness ancient Chinese and improve your range medical treatment that of motion. Work with involves inserting thin a physical therapist to needles into specific learn self-massage, or points on your body. schedule appointments This is supposed to by the World Health pain. If you want to with a massage therapist reroute energies and Organisation for explore this treatment Diet Plan before taking them. regularly. Your massage treatment of over 100 method, be sure to find therapist should be restore balance in your Everyone needs Om- Turmeric different conditions. a licensed and certified experienced with wor- body. Acupuncture is ega-3 fatty acids in their It is thought that acupuncturist in your Turmeric, the yellow king on people who have the most researched diet for optimum health. complementary therapy acupuncture has the city. spice common in arthritis. These fats also help Indian dishes, contains and is recommended ability to reduce arthritis Meditation Herbal Supplements your arthritis. Fish oil a chemical called Does Stress Affect Arthritis? Meditation and supplements, which are curcumin that may There are many kinds of relaxation techniques high in Omega-3s, have help to reduce arthritis herbal supplements on The connections between stress and inflammation are been shown to reduce the market that claim to clear. Stress releases chemicals that affect the immune may be able to help pain. The secret is its joint stiffness and pain. be able to reduce joint system, and this causes inflammation. As a result, you reduce pain from anti-inflammatory Another fatty acid that pain. Some of the herbs arthritis flares up again. Going through life changes such arthritis by reducing properties. The NIH can help is Gamma touted for arthritis as moving, the death of a loved one, financial concerns, stress and enabling reports that turmeric Linolenic Acid, or GLA. pain include Boswellia, or even a vacation require us to adapt, change routine, you to cope with it given to lab rats It’s found in the seeds Bromelain, Devil’s and worry. It’s important to recognise when you are better. According to the reduced inflammation of certain plants such Claw, Ginkgo, Stinging feeling stressed and worrying. Being self-aware of your National Institutes of in their joints. More as evening primrose, Nettle and Thunder body’s reaction will remind you to relax. What helps you Health (NIH), studies research on use of borage, hemp, and God Vine. Always talk relax? Here are some suggestions of ways to relax. have found that the the supplement for practice of mindfulness black currants. You can humans is needed, but to your doctor before • Breathe slowly for two minutes. Focus on a long meditation is helpful for also buy the oils of the it can’t hurt to add trying a new supplement exhale and then allow the inhalation to enter your lungs some people with painful seeds as a supplement. this tasty spice to your to avoid side-effects gently. joints. Researchers However, be sure to dinners. and dangerous drug • Be creative. Paint, doodle, write, or cook. also found that those check with your doctor interactions. . • Listen to music, watch a movie, or engage in some with depression and activity which will allow you to stop focusing on what is arthritis benefitted the Seeking Help from Subscribers and Readers worrying you. most from meditation. When stress is reduced, • Get out in nature and feel the sun on your face. After reading this magazine please leave it at a Doctor’s inflammation and thus • Spend time with someone who makes you laugh. swelling and pain drop. waiting room when you visit one

26 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 27

Seeking Help from Subscribers and Readers After reading this magazine please leave it at a Doctor’s waiting room when you visit one Techie Turns Farmer

Venkat Iyer was destined to go places in his job with the IBM. Instead, he quit his job and became a farmer. Here’s his story by Huned Contractor

or a book, the for a single moment,” he IBM, Venkat turned title is quite says. As he explains it, to organic farming by Fintriguing: Moong “In order to chase your investing in a 4.5 acre over Microchips. But dream and passion, I farm in Peth village there is a story behind feel one needs the 5 of Dahanu taluka in such a quirky title. And Cs: Courage to leave Maharashtra, along it relates to the author the comfort zone you with his journalist wife, who quit a high-profile, are in and look at new Meena Menon. For Iyer high-paying job as an options; commitment and Menon, it all started IT professional with to put in 100% of your with looking out for a a leading company energy to chase your small weekend getaway like IBM and chose to dream; conviction that near Mumbai. “We are become a son of the soil, what you are planning both nature lovers and a farmer. In fact, he was to do is what you want; had money left over at the peak of his career cooperation from family after our investment in when he decided to quit. and friends; capital a flat in Goregaon. But What led to such a rash since you always need we never quite managed decision? Does Venkat some money to start.” to zero in on a property. Iyer, who changed So, after he had signed Meanwhile, Meeena, the lanes in his life so his exit papers as a who was working on a drastically, ever regret project manager with project related to organic at having done so? “Not cotton farming in rural

28 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 29 India, visited several the work environment, would be needed to day one was off,” says dependence on money some take the trouble farmers and came back but I guess I was fed survive if the farm was Venkat. and do what your heart to visit him too. “I was enchanted with their up with long hours and going to be their only So how does his farm tells you to do,” he says. particularly impressed lifestyle. Suddenly, we short deadlines,” says source of income. life differ from that in So, what is Venkat’s when a 90-year-old wanted not a weekend Venkat. The more he “The feedback we got put the city? “First of all, take on agriculture? person with his son-in- getaway but a place thought about it, the the figure at Rs 6,000. I I had to learn the art “Agriculture will law and a retired teacher where we could farm more convinced he calculated what I would of doing nothing. The continue to be the friend visited me at the organically and live,” became about trading get from my provident labourers would leave mainstay in our country, farm. They set out from Venkat informs. his hectic lifestyle for life fund, gratuity, etc., once at about 6 pm and then though it may no longer Mumbai with only a “Seventeen years as a in a village. “The weird I resigned, set aside there was nobody to talk be the profession of vague idea of where I software professional, part was when I talked money that would give to and nothing by way choice. Many farmers lived, armed with just and I was beginning to colleagues at IBM us a monthly income of entertainment, not are selling land and a copy of the Gujarati to question what I was they all thought it was of Rs 6,000 for a few even TV. So I started to some are becoming magazine ‘Chitralekha’ really doing. My MNC a great idea.” However, years and then worked just sit and stare at the daily wagers, or seeking that had carried a cover lifestyle was not helping one piece of advice the on getting rid of all the stars, look at the insects, jobs and this is likely story on me. It was me grow as a person and couple consistently liabilities like car loan and so on. It became a to continue. Farming amazing that they got to neither was city living. got was to assess their EMIs, credit card debt, sort of meditation and could undergo changes the farm after searching Don’t get me wrong. The assets and liabilities and etc. The balance money eventually it helped me and there could be more for a few hours, showing job was great and so was determine how much in our kitty was to be let go of the years of corporate and private people my pictures in used to buy land,” he stress that city living had intrusions, and contract the magazine along the says. By January 1, 2004, bred.” But it also led to farming which is already way,” he recalls. And Venkat had resigned writing his experiences happening. There is where would he have and in February 2004 down, which eventually little political will to been if he had not taken they zeroed in on a got published as a help farmers and unless up farming? Replies small farm in Dahanu. book. “It is about my there are major policy Venkat: “I would The couple renovated transition from a techie changes with increased probably be in the senior the existing structure to a farmer. Above all, it credit availability, better management of some on the farm and added a also outlines the fact that pricing and improved company, with a huge refrigerator and cooking all my city ailments such rural infrastructure, salary, living in the city, gas to get set for a new as high BP, cholesterol farmers will struggle,” accumulating frequent life. However, there was and diabetes are now he says. flyer points, complaining of traffic snarls, tough a small change in the gone. It also points out Venkat gets a lot of plan. Meena was offered that you can work out clients, strict deadlines, fan mail ever since the tight budgets and poor a job with a leading your finances, reduce book was published and newspaper which she your material needs and increments.” . didn’t want to pass up. “In a way, that was great Seeking Help from Subscribers and Readers because now we had a steady source of income After reading this magazine please leave it at a Doctor’s and the pressure to make the farm profitable from waiting room when you visit one

30 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 31

Seeking Help from Subscribers and Readers After reading this magazine please leave it at a Doctor’s waiting room when you visit one Sadhu Vaswani Mission Dada J P Vaswani: A The seeds for the Sadhu Vaswani Mission were sown by Sadhu T L Man of Peace Vaswani in 1929, at Hyderabad, Spiritual leader Dada J P Vaswani died at 99 in Pune, just 21 days Sindh. In those days it was called the Sakhi Satsang, as it largely comprised before his 100th birthday on August 2. Dignity Dialogue pays women. With time, a number of men its respects to a person who advocated peace and brotherhood were inspired to join and hence Sakhi t was being am saddened beyond age of 13 and graduated Satsang became the Brotherhood planned as a grand words on the passing at 17! He acquired a Association. In 1948, Sadhu Vaswani celebration and away of Dada J P postgraduate degree in along with his devotees settled in Pune I and made the Jeejeebhoy Castle his for the Sadhu Vaswani Vaswani. He lived for Physics and his thesis on Mission this would have society and served the the scattering of x-rays home. This beautiful heritage building located in the heart of Pune became the been a day of rejoicing poor and needy with by solids was assessed headquarters of the Sadhu Vaswani Mission. In 1966, after Sadhu Vaswani shed that would have been compassion. Blessed by Dr. C V Raman – his physical body, the baton was passed on to Dada J P Vaswani. The essence of remembered forever. with immense wisdom, the world-renowned Sadhu Vaswani Mission’s teaching is to love god, and, in love, find the fulfilment Unfortunately, destiny he was passionate nuclear physicist and of one’s life. Daily satsangs are held to provide spiritual solace to all. Once a week played its own hand about educating the girl recipient of the Nobel and on special occasions, Dada addressed those with a quest for the universal and spiritual leader child, cleanliness and Prize – who marveled truths of life. Dada J P Vaswani, who furthering peace as well at his genius! A brilliant be adopted by people at use, for it will open to another occasion, Dada had ardent followers as brotherhood,” Prime career lay ahead of him, all levels. One cannot us all the doors to peace offered his own head not only among the Minister Narendra but Dada chose to give it help but marvel at how and happiness,” he in exchange for the Sindhi community but Modi said in a tweet. all up and follow in the he reduced profound often said. lives of four goats that people of all faiths, footsteps of his uncle, Born on August 2, 1918, philosophy to simple Dada’s love moved out were to be sacrificed passed away just about Sadhu T L Vaswani. Dada grew up to be a guidelines that could to all of god’s creation, at a ‘yagna’ in Pune. three weeks before While shaping his life brilliant student who be both fulfilling for including birds and Seeing the sincerity of his 100th birthday. “I and his thought on the matriculated at the early the practitioner and to animals. He was known the appeal and radiant master’s teachings, the society he lived in. to cause the release of compassion writ on Dada’s intrinsic value A simple man, Dada birds held in cages, and his face, the priests lay in his building upon was simple in his dress, on another occasion, were moved to proceed and presentation of simple in his speech, comfort a dog which had with the rites without Sadhu Vaswani’s great and simple in his just been run over. He the customary animal thought in his own elucidation of higher picked up the mortally sacrifice. Dada saved refreshingly attractive thought. Therein lay the wounded animal and the hopeless lambs, and and inimitable manner. beauty of it all. There laid it gently at the more significantly, took Himself intellectually was no complexity in his side of the road, then one more step towards sublime, he presented prescription for peace. stroked its head while the ultimate triumph of his philosophy of life It’s so simple, he said. articulating ‘shlokas’ in vegetarianism. in simple, practical “Love is the key. It is a the attempt to ease its This deep awareness of terms which can easily key we must constantly agony of death. On yet the need for reverence

32 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 33 Dada J P Vaswani’s Quotes On March 8, 2018 • Silence is relaxation for the mind, even The Mother of Many on Women’s Day, as rest is relaxation for the body. Therefore, Sindhutai Sapkal, the spend some time in silence every day. • True love is sacrifice. It is in giving, ‘Mother of Orphans’, not in getting; in losing, not in gaining; in was honoured with releasing not in possessing that we love! the highest civilian • Wars will not cease until all killing is award for women, the stopped. No sentient creature must be killed. Nari Shakti Award • A new humanity, a new race, a new 2017. In this interview world order can only be built by investing in with Sonali Shetty, value-based education. indhutai Sapkal, against the wishes of my she talks about • Peace of mind is your richest treasure. See that you do nothing which may affectionately known mother. He used to send her life and work rob you of your peace of mind. as the ‘Mother of me to school under the S to cemeteries after night • Woman is the architect of the new generation. Orphans’, is an Indian pretext of cattle grazing. social worker and social However, abject poverty, because of fear. If anyone for all life formed a very the nascent spirituality of his thoughts, the activist known particularly family responsibilities and saw me, they would think I essential part of Sadhu in every child. A new frequent use of wit, for her work in raising an early marriage forced was a ghost. Vaswani’s teachings humanity, a new race, humour and anecdotes orphaned children in India. me to quit formal education Wasn’t it a difficult and was propagated thereby a new world made him a very She has nurtured over after clearing Class IV. I thing to undertake emphatically by Dada order can only be built popular speaker. His 1,050 orphaned children. was married at the age of 10 without any Vaswani. In 1986, by investing in a value- birthday on August 2 As of today, she has a grand to a 30-year-old cowherd resources? he flagged off the based education. has been celebrated family of 207 sons-in-law, and had three sons by the Initially I took care of International Meatless Dada was by nature as Global Forgiveness 36 daughters-in-law, and age of 20. When I gave Day campaign, seeking Day. On August 2 some orphaned children a pilgrim and a over a 1,000. Many of the birth to a girl in 1973, my in return for some rice, dal to initiate an awareness traveller. Travelling at 2 pm, young and children whom she adopted husband abandoned me. of reverence for all old alike, across and buttermilk. Gradually, across the globe, are well-educated lawyers I was tempted to commit people came forward to forms of life and Dada’s talks attracted continents, observe a and doctors, and some, suicide but then decided I appealing to the people ‘moment of calm’ by help us. I would sing and large international including her biological would become dedicate my beg at railway stations to to abstain from all forgiving all those who audiences. He drew daughter, are running life to the care of orphans. raise money. food of violence. Dada have wronged them. people of all races and their own independent Was it scary being a was also a towering Forgiveness, Dada Is it true that you have creeds towards him. orphanages. lone woman with a educationist who helped said, is the golden key even used your award His universal appeal Could you tell us about child? unfold Sadhu Vaswani’s to peace. “It is a bridge money for building an sprung from the fact your early days? vision for modern, over which one can get As a young woman without orphange? that he would not I was born on November any shelter, I came up value-based learning impose religious ritual to any human heart. I have used it to buy land in the 21st century. He Never does a man 14, 1948 in a village in with strategies to protect to make a home for my on his audience. The Maharashtra to a cowherd myself from men. One believed that along with conviction with which stand so tall as when he children. Construction academic excellence, forgives an injury and by profession. I was an of them was to sleep in has started but we require he spoke, the depth unwanted child. However, cemeteries because no one education must be of knowledge in his pardons a revenge,” he more funds. We want this structured to nurture said. my father was keen on would molest me there. facility in Pune to house at utterances, the clarity . educating me, much I knew that no one came least 300 children. . 34 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 35 Making Merry You never feel guilty when you go casino hopping in Macau in Macau even when you lose all your money, says Judith D’Gama

in Las Vegas. The hotel has been inspired by her love for Venice, a city she fell in love with during their honeymoon. The hotel opened the doors for Macau to become a gambling destination,” t’s not gambling. Not up until 1999, Macau says local guide Rosanna even when you empty currently rakes in more Ipsiro. Iyour pockets and walk gambling money than My chance to go to the back a long distance to Las Vegas. Since 2004, it Venetian Macau came due your hotel just because has been on every Indian to an invitation for the you have lost every dime tourist’s wish list when, National Ballet of China’s you had in one of the 33 beginning that year, Las performance of the much- casinos of Macau. After all, Vegas Sands Corp opened loved Christmas classic you have come to Macau the Sands Macao, the first- ‘The Nutcracker’. This is to indulge in a sport, not ever US-operated casino one of the world’s most a game of chance. That’s in the region. Since then, famous ballets and tells how it is on this island off the the company has been the joyful story of an old the coast of Hong Kong adding an increasing Beijing family celebrating where I happened to number of places to on the eve of the Chinese be last month. Just two give its visitors a true New Year, the production nights in Macau can make taste of entertainment, blending rich Chinese your head reel – there are leisure, sightseeing and culture and western the blinking, swiveling, adventurous activities. classical ballet music. flashing lights that dazzle “All thanks to the CEO of But since it was gambling the place through the night Las Vegas Sands Corp, that was high up on the and there are the loads and Sheldon Adelson, who priority list, it was back to loads of money packets built the Venetian Macau the Poker machines that which everyone seems to as a replica of the lavish we headed. Finally, there be just burning up. and luxurious hotel he had was just enough cash left A Portuguese colony constructed for his wife to buy some peanuts! . 36 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 37 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 DIGNITY ENRICHMENT PAYMENT OPTIONS New revised membership rates - June 2018

MEMEBERSHIP OPTION BENEFITS TYPE

DIGNITY DIGNITY SINGLE 3150 5110 ENLIGHTENMENT DIALOGUE

DIGNITY 5700 9300 COMPANIONSHIP CHAI MASTI SINGLE COUPLE 3500 9975 16275

DIGNITY DIGNITY TOTAL SINGLE 7400 12000 DIALOGUE +

CHAI MASTI COUPLE 5000 14250 23250

September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 weather here would four hours. When we and then to the hotel fluctuate hour by hour reached Yamunotri at Barkot. The next A Captivating and we waited for the Dham at 10,170 feet, the morning we visited the skies to clear. weather, fortunately, Lakhamandal Mandir, ‘Chardham’ Experience The following mor-ning was bright and clear. where, it is believed, we took off on the first The Yamunotri Mandir the Pandavas created my sister-in-law. more than a lakh K V Krishnakumar recounts his Chardham leg of our pilgrimage, is dedicated to river We boarded the New proceeding to Yamunotri goddess Yamuna, the ‘shivlings’. With several Yatra – spiritually fulfilling, geographically Delhi Rajdhani Express of them excavated by interesting, scenically amazing – 46 km from Barkot. twin sister of Yama on May 7 from Mumbai We halted at Janki (Lord of Death).The The Archaeological Central and reached Chatti, the last point up idol of the goddess is Department, these are New Delhi the next to which vehicles are made of black marble displayed in the temple. morning. When we allowed beyond which and another interesting Our next destination reached our friend’s you have to either walk feature is the existence was Uttarkashi, which home, he warned us up or hire a pony or a of a hot spring where we reached in about to take heed of news palanquin. We voted in the devotees prepare three hours and stayed reports stating that the favour of the palanquin the ‘prasad’ out of rice in the Shivalinga Resort, region had experienced which was hoisted on carried by them in a a beautiful place. heavy snowfall and the shoulders of four small bag which, when Early at 5.30 am the next landslides with many men, two at the front immersed in this hot day, we left for Gangotri pilgrims stranded en and two behind. It’s a spring, gets cooked in Dham via Gangnani, 40 couple of years having two ‘Shakta’ route. We, however, steep climb of about 6 no time. Surprisingly, km from Uttarkashi – a ago, I and my wife sites (Yamunotri decided to carry on with km to the top and we felt next to the hot spring place where generally had planned to and Gangotri), one our trip, putting all our sorry for the men who is a cold water spring. pilgrims halt and have A faith in god. We reached undertake the strenuous ‘Vaishnava’ site did this job for a living. It did seem magical. a holy dip in the hot Chardham Yatra com- (Badrinath) and Haridwar by noon the The carriers had to take Having completed springs of the river prising visits to holy one ‘Shaiva’ site next day from where a three breaks for rest and our ‘darshan’ and the Ganga. The scene here abodes at Yamunotri, (Kedarnath). A year rented Innova car took snacks to re-energize amazing landscape of is truly vibrant with Gangotri, Kedarnath later, after my wife had us to Barkot, our first themselves for covering the rugged territory, we people from all over and Badrinath. We had successfully treated overnight halt. The road the uphill distance in returned to Janki Chatti India converging to almost tied up with a her leg problem and I was treacherous with pray and find salvation. travel agent, but due to had found a cure for many a hairpin bends About 60 km ahead some health reasons, peripheral vertigo, we on the mountainous lay Gangotri Dham we could not undertake focused on doing the route via Dehradun at 10,500 feet where, the pilgrimage then. Chardham Yatra again. and Mussoorie. Strong once again, we found The Chardham Yatra Our doctors found us fit winds and heavy rain a serpentine queue encompasses the Hindu to go and so in May 2018, greeted us at Barkot of pilgrims. However, pilgrimage circuit of we set off on a nine-day where we stayed at after paying for a the Indian Himalayas tour to finally see our the Devbhoomi Hotel. special pass, we were and represents all dream come true. We Our travel agent had able to complete our the primary cults by were accompanied by indicated that the ‘darshan’ quickly, following

42 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 43 which we filled our cans 2013, the temple has with the sacred water of remained safe. Our Ganga to be carried back return flight was next home for our near and morning and we flew dear ones. One of the to the Phata helipad interesting places we near Sitapur from visited on this route was where we visited the the Pilot Baba Ashram. famous Triyuginarayan Refreshed after a night’s Mandir. It is here that rest, we drove to Sitapur, to travel to Kedarnath experience, especially the wedding of Lord 200 km away – a drive the next day, and that when the helicopter had Shiva and Goddess that had us holding our too in a helicopter. to make its way through Parvathi had taken breaths in fear on seeing Unfortunately, the bad a small gap between place. Our next halt was the lofty mountains, weather of the previous two mountains. The at Joshimath, a tiring the deep gorges and the two days had put the slightest error would journey of 250 km. After strong flow of the river. helicopter service on have had us plummeting a night’s rest, we hit It surely was a test of hold and now there was down. It was therefore the road once again for morning and watched we are explained the the driver’s skills on a backlog of pilgrims with a prayer on our Shri Badrinath Mandir, the wonderful evening diverse cultures of our negotiating the scary waiting to take off. lips that we reached located at an altitude of ‘Ganga Aarti’ for an hour states. It houses the road bends where at However, we managed Kedarnath and joined 10,825 feet. The deity at Har Ki Pauri. The statues of some of the times it was just about to get instant tickets the queue for ‘darshan’. here is Vishnu in the ‘aarti’, accompanied by most famous faithful manageable to move one through our travel agent. It was cold and raining form of Badrinarayan the chanting of Vedic disciples in a seven- car at a time. Tired but When the helicopter and we were amazed to and is represented with hymns, was simply storied building. On exhilarated at the same was about to take off, hear that many of the a 3.3 feet tall statue spectacular. A massive the following day we time, we tucked into our the weather turned pilgrims had trekked 19 in black stone. We turnout of people reached Dehradun and blankets to stave off the with a strong wind km by road to reach this performed the ‘Pinda made the evening more visited some important cold and slept soundly. and a drizzle casting temple at an altitude of Daan’ for our ancestors enjoyable. On the next tourist spots like We were also excited uncertainty. But it soon 11,155 feet. with the help of a priest. day, we visited the huge the Forest Research because we were going cleared and we were up Four hours later, we From Badrinath Patanjali Yog Peeth Institute and Dehradun in the air. The flying time finally stood before we proceeded to located on vast acres Zoo. In the night we took was only seven minutes the idol of Lord Shiva. Rudraprayag for a night of land with a medical the overnight train from but it was an awesome It is believed that the halt. Then we went college, hospital, a mega Dehradun to New Delhi temple was built by the to Rishikesh and saw store, to name a few. and on the following Pandavas and restored Lakshman Jhula, Lord From there we visited day boarded the by Adi Shankaracharya. Shiva Mandir, etc. After the famous Gayatri Rajdhani Express back It is one of the 12 that we proceeded to Mandir and saw the to Mumbai. Finally, it ‘jyotirlingas’, the holiest Haridwar, regarded as ‘akhand deep’ (eternally felt like a big mission Hindu shrines of Lord one of the seven holiest lit lamp) in front of the had been accomplished. Shiva. Though there places by Hindus. We goddess. From here we Not to forget that it was a massive flood in had a holy dip in the proceeded to Bharat was an experience of a sacred Ganga in the Mata Mandir where lifetime! .

44 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 45 Living Happily Thereafter Krishna Moorthy suggests making your life after retirement a phase of fulfillment spent in the perusal of new things

ived happily job title, job content, achieve your unfulfilled thereafter’ – power and the people dreams, and create a ‘Lthis is how you work with or new lifestyle that is most fairy tales end. work for are no more rich, rewarding and But you can make relevant. satisfying. it a true story after You have to adjust to It may be part-time retirement. Retirement new roles, new identity work, volunteering for is not an end, but the and new routines and a social cause, teaching transition point to the build new relationships, slum/homeless/street beginning of a new life. which may change from children, working with For restructuring and time to time until you a religious institution, leading a new life you settle. If you have not or utilising an need to look at a few planned well ahead, opportunity to use your insights about how to you may start without skills and experience adjust to the changed a purpose, and in a in a different field. You environment. It may vacuum. The aim is may get spiritual and be full of problems to fill this vacuum philosophical and read and uncertainties with meaningful work and teach these subjects but at the same time, and purpose. A sense or take to writing if opportunities. You of purpose in life is you have the flair for retire from work important to health it. The transition may and not living. The and a key factor in be slow and with ups transition to a new ageing gracefully. and downs, but should way of life will take You get better sleep, end happily. While time and is a period of maintain better doing this, a number of confusion, frustration health, eat healthier factors have to be borne and failures. You may and exercise more. in mind: not have a regular and You also don’t resort steady work schedule • Financial security to drugs or alcohol to is essential so as to on a day-to-day basis get over your anxiety and you may not even make enough money and worries. You have to lead a decent life. know what will happen the opportunity to the next day. Your old Health costs are likely

46 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 47 to increase with age and approach each day with five possibilities in this should be taken a smile. So develop this journey: 1) Like care of. At this stage it new relationships and deadwood, you may get Just is health and not wealth nurture old ones. Have stuck up at the bank that matters. friends and family to forever, never making Mind • There is no need support you. Go on any progress. You to keep up with the a vacation with your can only watch others ‘Joneses’. Be satisfied family or friends. passing by, 2) Or you It! with what you have • Use your leisure may be like driftwood, drifting from place The mind is our real and also ensure you time for creative master since we have no have job satisfaction. pursuits or hobbies. from place and getting Unstructured life stuck up often on the control over the thoughts • Don’t relocate at way, until pushed by that keep shuttling back and and work can be the wrong place to save overwhelming with an external force to forth all the time. But, as Indira money. Later it may another point – when absence of purpose, turn out that it doesn’t Ananthakrishnan points out, boredom, depression and how is always we can learn to control our thoughts suit you. uncertain, 3) Cruisers and mental stress. and turn them into positive energy You can dream of have a slow but steady • Think young many things or do movement in the river, hether we are best thing to do? First of all, it is worth-while and learn new things many things, but they enjoying life, meeting or vocations and gain masters or What would we do if we to remember that thoughts should be practical, people and taking a servants, rich or are powerful. They have more knowledge. realistic, affordable known course, without W were to live in harmony poor, young or old, all of incredible energy to make • Staying social and worthwhile. I many jerks and with a higher authority us have one and the same in office or at home? We or mar our lives, to create is important. Low thought of an analogy changes, 4) Navigators master who rules over us harmony or discord social activity is linked (may be imperfect) to are those who guide should be do something irrespective of caste, creed, similar here – try to be within and without. What to greater risk of explain the options others in their colour or gender. Who is this thought energy? diseases, depression after retirement. Life journey, using past aware of our thoughts, could this master be? No study them, straighten Where does it come from? and dementia. Sleep after retirement is like skills and experience, prize for guessing. It is the Quantum physics has well and maintain navigating through 5) Adventurers or out kinks in the thought bundle of thoughts in our process, do away with shown us the importance peace of mind and a river. There are explorers travel across mind. Whether we like it of energy in creation. Its unknown waters or unwanted thoughts, and or not, this master is ever nurture the better ones. vibration has been keeping territories for fun or present. Never ever can everything connected adventure or gaining More easily said than this master be done away done! However, as we get and going. We know that knowledge. They work with! That is, we can never thoughts are in a constant with people who also closer to the end of our ever be without thoughts. life’s journey, it would do a state of flux. We are never like adventures. And No thoughts would mean able to remain with just finally, to quote British lot of good to give a serious no mind and that is the thought to our thoughts one thought in mind. poet C S Lewis: “You state of ‘nirvana’, which Thoughts keep cascading are never too old to set and see what best can be is an impossible state to done about them if the in and out all the time. new goals or to dream be in by ordinary mortals This happens due to their new dreams.” evening of our life is to be . like us. So, what is the next peaceful and happy. innate energy that has the

48 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 49 capacity to connect us to undertaken at any age, the being with our thoughts is the higher power. sooner the better. It needs a greatly effective activity Suicide is No Solution If we can capture and no external equipment leading to this state. Sumit Paul takes harness it, we would and no external conditions Slowly, we get unplugged have achieved our will affect it. Everything and disconnected. Sounds note of some recent purpose in life and be is within us. It is entirely like treason in today’s cases of suicide ever happy and peaceful. up to us to move on. world of connectivity. and presents his As this significance Interestingly, there can Nevertheless, it had better perspective about thoughts begins to be no comparison or be so. Each cell in the body dawn, we realise that it competition because is known to respond to Albert Camus explained is imperative to learn to thinking is unique to thoughts. It follows that Chef and author Anthony Bourdain’s suicide remains a mystery it beautifully in his letter get a grip on our thoughts each of us, somewhat pure, happy thoughts anguishing in a saying patronisingly that to very young Edward W and quality – control like fingerprint. No two will enhance healing and hospital bed in they shouldn’t have done Said: “There’s an uncanny them. This control goes persons, not even twins, health. More often than far away England, this. They must have gone glamorous side to suicide. think of the same things, not, we tend to put our L Don’t get lured by it and on to give a better hue battling the crucial stage through some unbearable to circumstances and at the same time with the thoughts on auto-pilot, of blood cancer and pain, predicament and descend into an abysmal situations in life and paves same intensity. Our lives allowing them to wander getting to read online turmoil in their lives. It pit of self-loathing a path to the destination get shaped by our thoughts. where they wish to. that in recent times so may sound hackneyed or juxtaposed with a silly called ‘happiness’. The Therefore, no two persons For this not to happen, many celebrities have an outdated cliche that sense of self-glorification. path may be pebbly at first live the same kind of lives it is necessary to assume committed suicide, my suicide is no solution but Face the music because because of the negative and we can never aspire to full responsibility of our heart goes out to them. let me state that it’s indeed man is condemned to thoughts that we have live like someone else. As thoughts and manage Himanshu Roy, a senior no solution. It may not experiencing the pains and entertained over the years. the saying goes, ‘How we them effectively and cop in Mumbai, couldn’t be a sign of cowardice to pitfalls throughout his life. Driving out the negative think is who we become.’ purposefully. This cope with the excruciating commit suicide, but what’s Don’t get fazed and foxed thoughts makes the path Having dwelt, so far, on awesome management pain of cancer and life if not a perpetual strife by them.” smoother and makes the the influence of thoughts process is not easy, but committed suicide a of the profoundest and When blood cancer struck journey comfortable and on our lives, we can say it is bound to make stray month ago; celebrity severest kind? the erudite Said in 2002, he quick. with confidence that thoughts, unnecessary chef Anthony Bourdain It’s like a game of cricket. remembered the words of This exercise can be thoughts can lead us to a thoughts, negative and recently cut short his Nothing can be predicted Camus and faced the Big C state of well-being. Simply purposeless thoughts life; and one more name till the last delivery is with utmost equipoise and disappear. Eventually, was added to this sad, bowled. Suicide truncates equanimity. The human thoughts will begin to turn depressing and macabre that golden possibility. It spirit has an astounding inwards and touch base list when spiritual guru jettisons all the chances quality to bounce back. It’s with the spiritual source Bhaiyyu Maharaj shot and opportunities that amazingly resilient. That’s which is our real self. At himself dead in Indore. could have blossomed the reason the indomitable this stage, thoughts stand There’s no condescending hadn’t life been depleted human spirit eventually still at the threshold of or sermonising attitude abruptly and prematurely. tides over all negativity quietude and enter the on my part towards these Mind you, there’s no and low tides in life. realm of blissful silence. brave people, who chose to heroism that has been Remember, adversities are Can we aspire for anything commit suicide. Neither is fallaciously attributed great but man is greater better? . there any pontification in and accrued to suicide. than all adversities. .

50 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 51 Clearing the Path Ahead Janina Gomes dwells upon how a shift in our priorities comes with ageing Janina Gomes

ntil one expressed through social isolation or alone, we may encounters interaction, rather than need to once again find Uthe trials and we being manipulated roots in our community. tribulations of life, by social interactions. On the other hand, if we whether in one’s own A big influencing factor have lost our identity in life or the life of those in this shift is coming the community, with no dependent upon us, to terms with death. identity left of our own we normally just go As our abilities begin self, we may need to spell along with life, without out our identity in a way to diminish and more There is a need to look for a clear path in our life as we grow older serious questions. and more of the people that is unique and a true However, when faced who were around us are reflection of our inner self. shift meant a giving up of to reorder my whole life. don’t deliver. This comes with helplessness or taken away by death, we I found that for years I led many pleasurable things The search for integrity naturally when we spend disability in others, we learn to reformulate our a life that was busy with and a loss of certain joys and integration were the maximum amount of begin to see our life from lives and choose options office work and superficial that may have become an important part of energy and time on what another perspective. Our that are meaningful relations. Then when the entrenched in the way I the process. I could not we excel in and devote priorities also change. in the perspective of outer structure collapsed had organised myself so integrate the different less time to tasks and We focus much less on death. We may have put and I had to look after my far. parts of my personality, occupations, which are the trivial things in life. relationships last on our mother in a more intensive My goals became simpler except through a shift in not really important to us. We begin to look at the list of priorities. way, I had to distance and the path to them less priorities. This requires a sifting really essential. We also We may have given too myself from my daily work arduous. I began to derive This has helped me process. In the mid-years begin to prioritize the much importance to our routine and finally give joy from small sacrifices become wiser and has of life, we are forced to take way we spend our time. work lives. We may have it up for something that made and the simple helped me to integrate a long look at our lives. The As we become more become totally absorbed was less demanding. My things that I attained in the lessons of the past, sifting process is often an conscious of how finite in our immediate new priorities then were life. I began to search for with the present and plan inner purification. We are we are and how little time environment. We need to give my mother more an identity more linked for the future. Perhaps called to remove all the we have to accomplish the distance of time as attention. Her medical, to the earth and its needs. the greatest lesson we dross we have collected what we want to on this well as the distance of physical and social needs, Meaningful relationships all have to learn from and to build on our inner earth, we slowly begin to space to reorder our even her spiritual life, became much more of the past is what we are strengths. If we do so cut out peripheral time- priorities. Sometimes we became my responsibility a goal and the burden good at and what we can however, we will find consuming activities. have to seek the help of and slowly other things of relationships based do without. We have to that our golden years will Our social lives are now others. If we have been began to fall in place. The on falsehood began to build on our strengths become years in which we planned in such a way that too individualistic and shift was not always easy. fall away. This shift in and not waste time on have been most true to the values we uphold are fended for ourselves in Gaining by an inward priorities has helped me occupations where we ourselves. . 52 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 53 DAAN UTSAV The Joy of Giving As DaanUtsav draws closer, here is a giver’s personal account of how giving leads to great satisfaction t a recent Azim Premji. I am a wanted to visit Bombay DaanUtsav ‘giver’ alright having had free access into our A meeting a fellow time and again assisted home and unlimited volunteer put forth several people in hospitality. My mother a rather quaint sug- small ways to cross a never tired of serving gestion: “Would you,” particularly difficult sumptuous lunches she asked, “consider stumbling block; but and dinners and my listing yourself as a a philanthropist? I dad never tired of phila-nthropist and think not. The Oxford shopping for fish and pledge to donate after Dictionary defines other goodies. It was your death half your ‘philanthropy’ as ‘the always service with a wealth to charity? I am practice of helping smile. That phase was looking for 10 ordinary people in need’. ‘nurtured giving’ at its people who would set Flashback to my early best. No questions were the ball rolling for childhood when along ever asked. philanthropy by the with my parents and My first experience ordinary citizen as a three siblings, we lived of ‘evolved giving’ DaanUtsav initiative.” A in a small 350 sq. feet was perhaps when I little nonplussed, I told apartment. If there was in Class VI. I call her that I would have to was an abundance of it ‘evolved’ because think about it. “You have anything in my home it while being fallout of until the DaanUtsav was bonding within the ‘nurture’ the decision Week (October 2-8) to family and outside. this time was entirely decide,” she concluded. An endless stream of mine. I was helping a Am I a philanthropist? A visitors characterised friend understand a natural association with our home. In addition mathematics problem. the word ‘philanthropy’ to my grandparents who I was at ease with the for me, is ‘magnitude’, came every year, there fractions, equations, something associated were friends, relatives, percentages, areas with the the volume friends of friends, and volumes while my of giving, as with the relatives of friends, friend struggled to keep likes of Bill Gates and and so on. Anyone who pace. I would sit with

54 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 55 her after school. That happened much later believe me, there is she grew to specialize after I had attained the great satisfaction in in mathematics is ‘grandparent’ status. knowing for yourself another story, but I My grandchildren that you have helped like to tell myself that I were adopted – an change a life. contributed by helping experience that gave About DaanUtsav her out. Also, doing so me the rare insight into was my personal calling. DaanUtsav is a festival what a child can do – an entirely voluntary This still, was not for a family and vice- one. There is no ‘social giving’ for our versa. Along with my organisation; there friendship was the daughter and son-in- are no hierarchies; no motivation for me; there law, in 2002 we founded standard operating was the expectation of a Catalysts for Social systems and no ‘return’. As a teenager, Action to cater to the accountability except circumstances led care of institutionalized to oneself. All that me to caring for an children. We is required is for an injured stray in my rehabilitate children individual/unit/group/ neighborhood. Caring in need of care and society/community/ for strays then became protection. This is corporate to get a passion leading to ‘socially responsible together to give. Any participation in some giving’ because the kind of need fulfillment training programmes rehabilitation process is ‘giving’ and is and getting myself is one that leads to welcome. So is a pledge certified as an Animal social change. We – a promise unto Welfare Officer. This give, so we impact; we oneself to do something was my first attempt at impact, so we change; to bring about change. social giving for there we build communities, If the giving or pledge was no expectation of so we value-add. We leads to sustained any return. Socially are the change we want change, that transition responsible giving to see around us! And is an achievement – a thing to celebrate and that’s what the DaanUtsav Week is about. Launched in 2009 as the Joy of Giving Week, the name was changed in 2013 so that even ordinary Indians can relate to it – the festival has been around for 10 years! . 56 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 57 One day, in September 1998, I was called A Memorable Flight by our Operations Department and told that I would be one of the pilots taking our In this nostalgic account, Subhash Patwardhan PM to the US. The route was going to be recalls his last VVIP flight of taking former Delhi – Amsterdam – New York – Paris Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his visit – Delhi. A different crew would bring the PM and his entourage to Amsterdam, and to the US to address the UN General Assembly Subhash Patwardhan we were supposed to take over from there The author outside the gates of the White House n India, there are only three official detail. There are two reasons for that - on and be with the flight till the end. Our an official PM visit to the US – PM Atal VVIPs – the president, the vice firstly and more importantly, this flight crew would be positioned at Amsterdam Bihari Vajpayee went to the US on his Ipresident and the prime minister. has a very historical background which via London. With this in view, we got first official visit as the prime minister of During my long association with Air had implications on the future political ready for the flight. The VVIP flight would India only in 2001. India, I had the privilege of flying our scenario of our country, and secondly, I commence on September 23 and finish The Assembly VVIPs on many occasions. Most of my admire our former Prime Minister Atal on September 30 with a five-day stay in VVIP flights were very interesting and I Bihari Vajpayee very much. We will be New York and a three-day stay in Paris. We were following the PM’s visit from have many anecdotes to share! My first celebrating the 20th anniversary of that While being positioned at Amsterdam, I Washington DC. He addressed the UN VVIP flight was when we flew Prime flight very shortly. met BJP stalwart Mr. Jaswant Singh, who General Assembly in Hindi for the first time. He met world’s top leaders at that Minister Indira Gandhi in 1983 on a The Background was one of the very high level dignitaries Boeing 707 and the last one I flew was in the PM’s entourage international forum. I suppose he was able After coming to power in 1998, the to explain India’s position regarding our with Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee The Flight in September 1998 on the Boeing 747 then National Democratic Alliance nuclear explosions to those dignitaries. Jumbo Jet. On my first VVIP flight, we (NDA) government took a very bold The flight out of Amsterdam was He seemed to have gained confidence flew Mrs. Gandhi back to India after her decision and carried out nuclear and smooth. However, after landing at the J during this visit to the UN. On the return visit to the USA and the UK in August thermonuclear explosions at Pokharan F Kennedy Airport we were told that the flight, we landed in Paris so that our PM 1983. Operation Blue Star took place in on May 10 and 13, 1998. This particular necessary security could not be provided could meet all the top French leaders who June 1984 and she was later assassinated act was done with such utmost secrecy to our airplane since it was only a civilian had supported our action at Pokhran. by her guards in October 1984. It was a that the whole world was taken by total airport. Instead, we were asked to fly The French government provided a very sad moment for me! surprise. As a result, India lost favour the aircraft to Andrews Air Force Base red carpet welcome to our PM and he with most of the western countries that near Washington DC, where US ‘Air was given a guard of honour at the Orly In this article, I would like to share imposed sanctions and restrictions on Force One’ is stationed. So, we the flying Airport on arrival. my last VVIP flight with you in more India, the only exception being France. crew was at Washington and the PM’s The second day our PM met the president, It was against this background that the entourage in New York! This was not on prime minister and other officials of PM was visiting America. He was not France. There were no official engagements invited by the US, but he was going there the next day and we wondered what the to address the UN General Assembly in extra blank day was for. However, it later New York. Our PM must have wanted to transpired that he had kept that day aside explain India’s position on the nuclear to meet some Naga underground rebel explosions at this august gathering. This leaders and had signed a peace treaty with was going to be his first opportunity to them, which continued till last year. The interact with heads of many states at a Paris–Delhi sector was very eventful. I world forum. The author with Mr. Jaswant Singh The author with former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee met Mr. Jaswant Singh who took me

58 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 59 over to meet our PM with whom I had a good chat. Later, onboard the aircraft, the PM held a press conference and we could make out that he was very happy because of an extremely successful visit to the United Nations and France. The new surge of confidence he had gained Former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee addressing the was evident and this also resulted in India UN General Assembly taking strong measures in tackling any of this political upheaval and the caretaker the tough situations that followed. government of Mr. Atal Bihari Vajpayee The Aftermath led us to victory in that war. The nation’s pride was intact. Thereafter, the Lok Sabha However, the government’s new stance elections were held and in 1999 the new was not liked by the opposition parties NDA government took the oath of office to and led to a lot of political wrangling. As serve the nation for a full term of five years. events unfurled, a ‘no confidence’ motion As I look back on that flight now, I cannot was tabled against the PM and the BJP help but feel that it was a historic one was brought down by just a single vote. indeed! The Kargil War took place soon after .

60 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 61 BOOK REVIEW

June 1996. The final the delay? Obviously, in ivory towers and are Justice For All? judgment was delivered the finger points at cut off from reality. by the Supreme Court our courts who play Shourie makes a strong Arun Shourie is a well-known and versatile author in February 2017 after into the hands of the appeal to the judges to and his most recent book is a sort of report card Gopal Srinivasan Jayalalitha, the main cunning and crafty carefully consider the about the Indian judiciary. Gopal Srinivasan accused, was no more. lawyers who find ways repercussions of their presents a review It took more than 20 and means of illegally orders and observations years. The accused, defending their clients on society. Anita Gets Bail: What Are Our Courts Doing? and the judges who give What Should We Do About Them? notification. Finally, through a battery of There are many adjournments at the Author: Arun Shourie after nearly six years, eminent lawyers, tried more cases which are Publisher: Harper Collins Publishers India she was acquitted in all the tricks in the drop of a hat and some enumerated where Pages: 277. March 2015. game to evade justice. who are suspected for justice has been delayed giving orders for huge Price: Rs 699. During this period But the uprightness and even denied. considerations. ver the years, the problem. Shourie and his and the doggedness of In order to improve wife had to suffer the Advocate General of The chapter titled delivery of justice the reputation Starting the book of the Indian severe hardships, Karnataka and Special ‘Eloquence’ is within a reasonable O with his own example, Public Prosecutor B hilarious. Orders given time the country needs mental trauma and judiciary has suffered Arun Shourie writes deterioration of their V Acharya and the in the most bombastic public-service oriented for many reasons. Its how he and his wife health due to frequent meticulously prepared style on various issues individuals, media pristine purity has Anita had to suffer for visits to the Faridabad order of the trial court reduce the gravitas of that must constantly been lost and there a house that they did court situated 40 km by Justice John Michael the matter. Shourie highlight the delays, are many chinks in its not build on a plot they from their home. A D’Cunha finally sealed quotes many of the equipping all courts armour. Though by and did not own in Aravali wrong charge was her fate in the Supreme orders which make across the country with large people look up to Retreat, Himachal foisted on law-abiding Court. Should it have the readers burst into qualified, intelligent it with confidence and Pradesh. They had individuals and the taken such a long time? peals of laughter for and capable judges and belief that truth would been allotted a plot of courts took so much time Who is responsible for the ludicrousness of for the apex court to prevail within a given land in December 1990 when the matter could the references that the set in motion a set of time framework, it is which they registered have been disposed judges make. The order judicial reforms. It is usually not the case. in October 2007 and off in a few hearings. passed on Calcutta no doubt a humongous Courts take many many sold in March 2008. It is no wonder that High Court Judge C S task. Otherwise, the years to give their In October 2009, the backlog of cases in Karnan, the only judge hope that timely justice orders, quite often the Haryana State our courts are running sent to jail for ‘contempt will prevail will remain after the petitioner is Pollution Control into a mind-boggling of court’ makes a distant dream. The no more. And some Board filed a complaint figure. Then, in the interesting reading. book has a mine of of these orders are that Mrs Anita Shourie next chapter, Shourie There are judges who information on many erroneous, made has committed an takes up the Jayaram pass sweeping orders landmark judgments without application of offence punishable Jayalalitha case of without considering and is written in an mind – a travesty of under Section 15 of disproportionate assets the impact that these easily readable style justice. Unfortunately, the Environment beyond known sources orders are likely to have while keeping the our judicial institutions Protection Act for of income. The first at the ground level. In interest of the reader are not accountable. violation of an Aravali There lies the crux of complaint was filed in a sense, they are sitting alive. .

62 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 63 DF UPDATES

Pune Chapter Hosts Dance Extravaganza he Pune Chapter of Dignity Thereafter, the entertainment quotient Foundation hosted a ‘Dances was pumped up with seniors taking Tof the World’ event on July 29 the stage to dance to Bollywood and at the Mahatma Phule Auditorium Rajasthani songs. Members from at Wanawadi. Inaugurated with the the Kalyani Nagar Chai Masti Centre Dignity Anthem and Ganesh Vandana presented a fusion dance, Shanta by Chitralekha Lawangu and Vidya Kapoor enchanted the audience Krishamurty, the programme was with a ‘diya’ dance and Jayshree anchored by Saguna Ramaprasad. Pancholi enlightened the audience A fashion show was presented, with a Bhutanese dance. Meanwhile, choreographed by Snehal Oswal and her Bhupendra Kempraj displayed his skill designer team of Purnima Shetty and with the mouth organ. The event came Nakshetra, which fetched a standing to a close with a vote of thanks by Kiran ovation from the 300+ audience. The Mahankale of the DF Pune Chapter. The models were in the ages of 60 to 90. event was also a huge success due to the This was followed by an orchestrated fund-raising efforts of Kurien Thomas, musical programme presented by Gopal Asthana, Abha Choudhari and Dr Swargandhar with former students of Usha Sutaria as well as the coordination the Pune School for the Blind taking managed by Jayanthi Gopal and office the lead. assistant Nisar Shaikh. .

64 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 65 LAST WORD

Life in Those Days!

V Ramasubban, at 84, would like to share a few nuggets from the period before and after independence V Ramasubban

he year was 1940. third day it was stolen need was for food, I was writing from my school bag. clothing and shelter. T the draft of an As for bicycles, several That’s because their article on one side of brands were imported supply was rationed. the paper – the reverse into India. The price Rice, the staple food was already used for was between Rs 150- in the south, used to some scribbling. There 180. You had to pay the be from two sources, was only one pencil full price in advance Burma and Brazil. The maker in India then and wait for several Burmese rice used and pencils were in months for the bicycle to become one big short supply. So they to be delivered. Mine gooey mass, while the had to be used till they was a Norton - an Brazilian rice consisted were down to just one English brand - that of large separate one inch long. And cost me the princely grains the size of even after that they sum of Rs 169. I coffee beans. For most were not discarded. received it four months of us it was difficult The stub was inserted after it was paid for! to digest either. in a tube (like an This was in 1945. Soon Cloth rationing was old fountain pen ink after the bicycle was fortunately such that barrel) and used till delivered at our house if you did not buy one only a half or quarter my elder brother took month the entitlement of that stub remained. the cycle for a test ride got added to the next. Fountain pens were over pebble stones This enabled purchase imported mostly from and fell down with the of dhotis, sarees, etc. the UK. My father once cycle falling over him! Having lived through bought me a fountain Luckily he was not such times, it became pen as a gift – a sleek injured but my brand a habit to preserve all and shiny brand new new bicycle now had kinds of things. Even black Burnham pen. I a permanently bent now I cannot bring was happy to own that right pedal. myself to throw out pen – alas, only for used clothes, shoes, two days only. On the During the period 1948 bags, pens, etc.! – 55, the country’s .

66 September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue Dignity Dialogue September | 2018 67 RNI No 62985/1995 Reg No. MCE/255/2017-2019 WPP Licence No. MR/Tech/WPP-251/East/2018 Published on 28th of every previous month. Posted on 28th and 29th of every previous month at Mumbai Patrika Channel Sorting Office, Mumbai-400001

September | 2018 Dignity Dialogue