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Let noble thoughts come to us from every side - Rigv Veda, 1-89-i

Indian Republic Day

Australia Day Martyr’s Day - Mahatma Gandhi’s martyrdom Day

Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam “The whole world is but one family”

Life | Literature | Culture

Jan 2011 | Vol 8 No.7 | ISSN 1449 - 3551 India Tourism, Sydney

Level 5, Glass House

135, King Street, Sydney NSW 2000

Ph: 02 9221 9555; Fax: 02 9221 9777 Martyrs’ Day

January 30 is marked as the Martyrs’ Day. It is an annual observance in India to honor all the freedom fighters who gave up their lives in service of the Nation. Martyrs’ Day marks the death anniversary of the father of nation, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, who was assassinated on Jan 30, 1948, by Nathuram Godse. Godse held Gandhi time everyone, be it in industrial units or responsible for the partition of India thus he shot government offices remember the martyred souls. Gandhiji. For this evil deed Godse was hanged on November 15, 1949. Martyrs’ day is dedicated to all The followers of Mahatma Gandhi worship him and the brave people who sacrificed themselves on the quote “He is the greatest human being so far altar of freedom. Earlier, January 26 was the appeared on this earth. Bapu is a symbol of virtues somber reminder of all the martyrs but later on, and greatness. This man lived the life of a saint”. 30th January was declared as the new Martyrs’ Day. His status as Father of the Nation cannot be January, 30 is a Martyrs’ day to remember the challenged as the political party led by him enjoyed freedom fighters of our country, wheras January 25, full monopoly after independence. He believed in is considered as a Martyrs’ day to remember those anti-violent ideologies. who lost their lives in the Anti-Hindi agitations during 1937-38 and 1965. The Day

Mahatma Gandhi Martyrs’ Day remind us of great people who attained martyrdom while defending the Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, fondly known as sovereignty of the country. On this day, the Prime “Bapu” was one of the greatest leaders of the last Minister of India and the three chiefs of the armed century. His popularity is not just restricted to forces salute the martyrs at India Gate. All the Indian boundaries. Millions of people across the Indian citizens pay homage to the souls of those globe hold him in highest esteem. Universally martyred. The top leadership visit Rajghat to recognized leader like Nelson Mandela took remember the man who single handedly led us to inspiration from Gandhi Ji. He was no ordinary the freedom. Multi-faith prayers are organized and leader. His method of non-violence paid great floral offerings are made. School children sing dividends. Every year on January 30th, a two- devotional songs. minute silence in memory of the Father of the Nation and other martyrs is observed throughout All-religion prayer is offered by religious leaders of the country at 11 a.m. On this day not only Prime different faiths. Classical musical renderings Minister and chiefs of the armed forces salute the including bhajans and devotional songs are held on martyrs at India Gate but also common men show this day. Martyrs’ Day is dutifully observed by the their gratitude towards them by giving up their entire nation. normal activities for some time and observing silence for 2 minutes. Sirens are blown at every Source: http://festivalsofindia.in, government establishment around 11 am. At that www.indianchild.com

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 3 Chairman

Glory to God in highest heaven, Who unto man His Son hath given; While angels sing with tender mirth, A glad new year to all the earth. - Martin Luther King, Jr.

We close this year and with a hope to bury past all our bad karmas, memories, grief and agonies look forward to a very happy and prosperous new year. Bid farewell of what you do not want to carry into the New Year. Forget and forgive the bad and the bad things and start over again in a positive attitude. And surely it is a chance to start afresh in 2011!

New Year is a resolution time to think of wishes to be turned into realities and goals for the welfare of humanity and peace all over the earth fulfilled. It takes a lot of courage and hard work, believing and achieving, patience and perseverance, inner strength and gentle hope to achieve all this. Taking the first step firmly will lead to big goals needed to save our people and our earth. I wish everyone on this earth a very Happy and Optimistic New Year with this hope.

Twenty six January – a Historic day for Australia and India

Australia Day

Australia Day, 26 January, is the anniversary of the arrival of the First Fleet of 11 convict ships from Great Britain, and the raising of the Union Jack at Sydney Cove by its commander Captain Arthur Phillip, in 1788. Since then Australia Day has evolved from a small commemorative New South Wales holiday into a major national celebration. Australia Day remains the most inclusive celebration of a national day in Australia, expressing the national diversity which has become an important part of the Australian national character. Australia Day today celebrates diversity and tolerance in Australian society. It embraces multicultural Australia, including all ethnic backgrounds, racial differences and political viewpoints. It is an opportunity for us to think and implement our deep inner thoughts to consider how we can make Australia an even better place in future.

On Australia Day, Wednesday 26 January 2011 the NSW Government will again stage celebrations in Darling Harbour, the 2011 Australia Day Spectacular. This event has proven to be a wonderful success for many years with crowds of up to 200,000 people attending the day and night time celebrations. We at Bhavan make our contribution to the Australia celebrations every year in a unique way. This year we have been invited to join with a special “Indian boat” with the auspices of the Indian Festival to be involved in the Parade of Vessels in Cockle Bay as part of the 2011 Australia Day celebrations. The Parade of Vessels will feature a variety of cultural Above from top: Australia Day; communities that make up Australia’s diverse society, ferried Martyr Day; Amar Jawan Jyoti; around Cockle Bay on beautiful, grand and interesting boats as a Republic Day part of harbour life on Sydney waterways.

4 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Indian Republic Day

India became Republic, a sovereign democratic state on 26th January, 1950 with a written constitution and an elected parliament. The occasion is always a solemn reminder of the sacrifice of the martyrs who died for the country in the freedom movement and the succeeding wars for the defense of sovereignty of the nation. The nation finally realized the dream of Mahatma Gandhi and those numerous freedom fighters. Let us work toward peace and betterment of the nation and march toward the fulfillment of the dream that our great freedom fighters saw of a future India.

Thirty January – Martyr’s Day

Years have passed since the greatest human to walk on this earth in the 20th century, was gunned down on 30th January 1948. Mahatma Gandhi had done everything to free the minds and bodies of men and nations across the world, and yet, seems to have become irrelevant to his own people and country. No single human had achieved so much to change the history and geography of the world as the Mahatma did and yet, he became a victim of his own supreme achievement. Born out of struggle based on Satya and Ahimsa, (truth and non-violence) India and the world today, have diversified forms of violence. Seeing the whole world there is still the relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the contemporary world. The nations plead repeatedly the need for the Mahatma’s presence. It is time to look beyond government, public life and business and bureaucracy to the ordinary people to invoke the Mahatma to secure and insulate the nations from the scourges of violence and untruth? Remembering Mahatma and adopting his Satya and Ahimsa policies will be our true tribute to the Mahatma on Martyr’s Day every 30th January.

Gambhir Watts Chairman, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Australia

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 5 Contents

44 40 75

Australia Day ...... 8 Kautily’s Arthshahstra ...... 54

Festivals of the Month ...... 10 Lala Lajpat Rai ...... 58

Martin Luther King Jr ...... 16 Gandhi Stamps A Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi . . .60

A New Year Prayer Ramesh Bijlani ...... 19 Priyadarshini ...... 68 christmas celebration ...... 23 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas ...... 71

Consciousness Dr Ramesh Bijlani ...... 24 Resolution International Symposium on YOGism for Healthy & Happy Living and Age . . . .72 Mahatma Gandhi Seven blunders of the World . . .25 Sydney Festival ...... 75 Guru Gobind Singh ...... 40 Subhash Chandra Bose ...... 80 Republic Day ...... 44 Shiva Sutra in Poetry~ A very novice effort . . . . .100

Publisher & General Editor: Gambhir Watts BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF [email protected] BHARATIYA VIDYA BHAVAN AUSTRALIA Editorial Committee: Shanker Dhar, Parveen Dahiya, Office Bearers: Sridhar Kumar Kondepudi Chairman Gambhir Watts [email protected] President Surendralal Mehta Design: Executive Secretary The Aqua Agency - 02 9810 5831 and Director General Homi Navroji Dastur www.aquaagency.com.au Advertising: Other Directors: [email protected] Abbas Raza Alvi, Shanker Dhar, Catherine Knox, Mathoor Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Australia Krishnamurti, Rozene Kulkarni, Palladam Narayana Sathanagopal, Suite 100 / 515 Kent Street, Kalpana Shriram, Jagannathan Veeraraghavan, Moksha Watts Sydney NSW 2000

Patron: Her Excellency Mrs Sujatha Singh The views of contributors to Bhavan Australia are not necessarily the views of Bhavan Australia or High Commissioner of India in Australia the Editor. Bhavan Australia reserves the right to edit any contributed articles and letters submitted for publication. Copyright: all advertisements and Honorary Life Patron: His Excellency M Ganapathi, original editorial material appearing remain the Currently High Commissioner of India in Mauritius property of Bhavan Australia and may not be reproduced except with the written consent of the (Founder Member/Director of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Australia) owner of the copyright. Bhavan Australia: - ISSN 1449 – 3551 aqua.2644

6 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Rabindranath Tagore’s Geetanjali

Closed Path I thought that my voyage had come to its end at the last limit of my power—that the path before me was closed, that provisions were exhausted and the time come to take shelter in a silent obscurity. But I find that thy will knows no end in me. And when old words die out on the tongue, new melodies break forth from the heart; and where the old tracks are lost, new country is revealed with its wonders.

Only Thee That I want thee, only thee—let my heart repeat without end. All desires that distract me, day and night, are false and empty to the core. As the night keeps hidden in its gloom the petition for light, even thus in the depth of my unconsciousness rings the cry —‘I want thee, only thee’. As the storm still seeks its end in peace when it strikes against peace with all its might, even thus my rebellion strikes against thy love and still its cry is —‘I want thee, only thee’.

Beggarly Heart When the heart is hard and parched up, come upon me with a shower of mercy. When grace is lost from life, come with a burst of song. When tumultuous work raises its din on all sides shutting me out from beyond, come to me, my lord of silence, with thy peace and rest. When my beggarly heart sits crouched, shut up in a corner, break open the door, my king, and come with the ceremony of a king. When desire blinds the mind with delusion and dust, O thou holy one, thou wakeful, come with thy light and thy thunder.

Sail Away Early in the day it was whispered that we should sail in a boat, only thou and I, and never a soul in the world would know of this our pilgrimage to no country and to no end. In that shoreless ocean, at thy silently listening smile my songs would swell in melodies, free as waves, free from all bondage of words. Is the time not come yet? Are there works still to do? Lo, the evening has come down upon the shore and in the fading light the seabirds come flying to their nests. Who knows when the chains will be off, and the boat, like the last glimmer of sunset, vanish into the night?

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 7 Australia Day

From the earliest white settlement at the end of the Wales. Phillip also became Governor of the colony, 18th century, Australians have striven to celebrate which was founded on the harsh grounds at Port a national day, and in so doing, define what it Jackson. Slowly, a modern British society, very means to be Australian. January 26 has much based on the distinctions between convicts traditionally marked the landing of Captain Arthur and settlers, developed. The fledgling colony very Phillip at Port Jackson in present-day Sydney. soon began to mark the anniversary of 26 January 1788 with formal dinners and informal celebrations. A National Day 26 January 1808, the ‘anniversary of the foundation of the colony’ was observed in the traditional Australia Day has evolved from a small manner with ‘drinking and merriment’. commemorative New South Wales holiday into a major national celebration. It remains the most By 1820, Australia was beginning to look inclusive celebration of a national day in Australia, prosperous and sentiments of Australian patriotism expressing the national diversity which has were being expressed at gatherings of ex-convicts. become an important part of the Australian The sense of belonging to a new nation must have national character. Australia Day today celebrates been encouraged in 1817 when Governor diversity and tolerance in Australian society. It Macquarie recommended the adoption of the name embraces multicultural Australia, including all ‘Australia’ for the entire continent instead of New ethnic backgrounds, racial differences and political Holland. viewpoints. 1889 to 1938 History - 1788 to 1888 In 1871 the Australian Natives’ Association (ANA) 26 January 1788 saw Captain Arthur Phillip take had been formed in Victoria. This was the first ‘formal possession’ of the Colony of New South Australian Friendly Society and its motto was

8 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Advance Australia. The group, which had particular January has become much more for the average influence in the period between the 1890s to Australian. Celebrations now include a strong around 1914, had strong nationalistic aspirations. festive aspect with special events encouraging the In Victoria, ANA Day was celebrated on the 26 participation of the entire family and all members January. of a community. Australia Day Committees involve their ethnic and indigenous communities, service 1939 to 1988 clubs, sporting and cultural organisations while local government has become increasingly The Second World War shifted the focus of supportive. Theatrical performances, music, Australians from Australia Day to the more sombre sporting events, speech days, multicultural and ANZAC day. In the years leading up to war, and indigenous performances are all a major part of even during the war, the Australian Natives Australia Day. It has been a great innovation that Association had been working patiently towards people and communities get together with the unified naming and dating of national day. In government bodies to make it a specific 1946, following their concerted efforts and with the celebration.” There is a greater awareness of the support of similar movements, the Commonwealth need to celebrate modern Australia—a land of Government and all States and Territories finally diverse ethnic makeup, a country working towards agreed to observe the same national day—26 reconciliation with its indigenous people and a January—and to call that day Australia Day. nation gearing itself for the challenges of globalisation, the removal of previously safe assumptions regarding national identity, and the uncertainties of a new century. Australia Day is the “Australia embraces centre of an evolving nation.

multicultural Australia, Source: www.australiaday.com.au including all ethnic backgrounds, racial differences and political viewpoints.”

1989 to Present

After the 1988 Bicentennial celebrations, the expectation was that the Australian public would not continue to observe Australia Day in such style and with such import. Despite this lack of optimism, each year since 1988 Australia Day celebrations across the country have continued to grow in number and stature and ceremonies have become increasingly appealing to a broad community audience.

Celebrations

Australia Day has become a community day. There are still formal ceremonies throughout the country—flag raising, citizenship ceremonies and the presentation of important community awards such as Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year, but 26

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 9 Festivals of the Month

International Kite Festival

Makar Sankranti begins around mid-December. It is believed that any auspicious and sacred ritual can be sanctified in Makar Sankranti is a major harvest festival any Hindu family, this day onwards. Scientifically, celebrated in various parts of India. According to the this day marks the beginning of warmer and longer lunar calendar, when the sun moves from the Tropic days compared to the nights. In other words, of Cancer to the Tropic of Capricorn or from Sankranti marks the termination of winter season Dakshinayana to Uttarayana, in the month of Poush and beginning of a new harvest or spring season. in mid-January, it commemorates the beginning of the harvest season and cessation of the northeast All over the country, Makar Sankranti is observed monsoon in South India. The movement of the earth with great fanfare. However, it is celebrated with from one zodiac sign into another is called Sankranti distinct names and rituals in different parts of the and as the Sun moves into the Capricorn zodiac country. In the states of northern and western known as Makar in Hindi, this occasion is named as India, the festival is celebrated as the Sankranti day Makar Sankranti in the Indian context. It is one of the with special zeal and fervor. The importance of this few Hindu Indian festivals which are celebrated on a day has been signified in the ancient epics like fixed date i.e. 14th January every year. Mahabharata also. So, apart from socio- geographical importance, this day also holds a Makar Sankranti, apart from a harvest festival is historical and religious significance. As, it is the also regarded as the beginning of an auspicious festival of Sun God and He is regarded as the phase in Indian culture. It is said as the ‘holy phase symbol divinity and wisdom, the festival also holds of transition’. It marks the end of an inauspicious an eternal meaning to it. phase which according to the Hindu calendar

10 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 History Gul (Sesame-Jaggery sweet) is prepared and exchanged on the day. Aryans started celebrating this day as an auspicious day for festivities. The reason behind Charity forms a significant part of the traditions of this may be the fact that it marked the onset of Makar Sankranti. In the state of Uttar Pradesh, one harvest season. Even in the epic of Mahabharata, can witness people donating Khichdi (rice cooked an episode mentions how people in that era also with lentils) to the poor and needy. People in considered the day as auspicious. Bhishma Andhra Pradesh also indulge themselves in charity Pitamah even after being wounded in the of clothes. Mahabharata war lingered on till Uttarayan set in, so that he could attain heavenly abode in Taking a holy dip on the day is considered auspicious times. It is said that death on this day to auspicious. It is a popular custom followed in Uttar brings Moksha or salvation to the deceased. Pradesh, where people flock the religious places in the state to take a ceremonious bath in holy River Legends Ganga. It is believed that taking dip in holy rivers provides moksha (salvation) from all the sins done The Puranas say that on this day Sun visits the previously. house of his son Shani, who is the swami of Makar Rashi. These father and son do not ordinarily get The customs followed in villages of India, on Makar along nicely, but inspite of any difference between Sankranti, have a unique charm. Varied festivities each other Lord Sun makes it a point to meet each including singing and dancing mark the other on this day. celebrations of the harvest festival. Courtyards are swept and sprinkled with a mixture of water and From Uttarayana starts the ‘day’ of Devatas, while cow dung, while the homes are scrub-cleaned for dakshinayana is said to be the ‘night’ of devatas, so the festival. most of the auspicious things are done during this time. It was on this day when Lord Vishnu ended Celebrations the ever increasing terrorism of the Asuras by finishing them off and burying their heads under Makar Sankranthi or Sankranti is celebrated in the Mandar Parvat. many parts of the country and also in some other parts of the world with great zeal and enthusiasm. The great savior of his ancestors, Maharaj It is a harvest festival which is basically celebrated Bhagirath, did great Tapasya to bring Gangaji River in the Hindu communities. There is a wide variation down on the earth for the redemption of 60,000 in the celebration of Makar Sankrant throughout sons of Maharaj Sagar, who were burnt to ashes at India. In Gujarat and Maharashtra, Makar Sankrant the Kapil Muni Ashram, near the present day Ganga is a festival of the young and the old. The states of Sagar. It was on this day that Bhagirath finally did Bihar, Bengal, Punjab, Maharashtra, Gujarat, tarpan with the Ganges water for his unfortunate Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu celebrate the festival ancestors and thereby liberated them from the with great fervor and gusto. In Tamil Nadu the curse. festival is known as Pongal, in Assam as Bhogali Bihu, in Punjab, as Lohiri, in Gujarat and Rajasthan, Customs as Uttararayan. Outside India, the festival is given due importance in the countries like Nepal where it Makar Sankranti is celebrated with religious is celebrated as Maghe Sakrati or Maghi, in fervour in almost all parts of India. In Maharashtra, Thailand where it is named as Songkran and in there is a custom of exchanging sweets made of Myanmar where it is called Thingyan. jaggery, as the first sugarcane crop for the year is harvested during the period. According to a Lohri tradition, the Marathis wear black clothes, because they consider the black sesame as auspicious. Til Lohri, is celebrated every year on 13th of January. It is a festival to worship fire. Lohri Festival is celebrated with great pomp in North India. First Makar Sankranti Lohri is very important for the newlywed and the new born babies as it marks fertility. At night, people gather around the bonfire and throw sesame seeds (til), puffed rice and popcorns into the flames of the bonfire. Prayers are offered to the bonfire seeking abundance and prosperity. People make merry by dancing and singing traditional folk songs.

Harvest Festival of Punjab

Lohri is the harvest festival of Punjab, famously known as the breadbasket state of India. Thus, people residing in Punjab attach a great

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 11 significance to Lohri, the festival in feasts and baking chapattis for community feasts. Another foods. This harvest festival is celebrated to mark legend says that Holika and Lohri were sisters. While both celebration and sharing. Lohri festival the former perished in the Holi fire, the latter prompts people to be thankful for God’s provision survived. Eating of til (sesame seeds) and rorhi and to celebrate His creation, its focus on farming. (jaggery) is considered to be essential on this day. In Punjab, wheat is the main winter crop, which is Perhaps the words til and rorhi merged to become sown in October and harvested in March or April. tilorhi, which eventually got shortened to Lohri. In January, the fields come up with the promise of a golden harvest, and farmers celebrate Lohri during Celebrations this rest period before the cutting and gathering of crops. For Punjabis, this is more than just a festival, Lohri is a festival of zeal and verve and marks the it is also an example of a way of life. culmination of the chilly winter. In true spirit of the Punjabi culture, men and women perform Bhangra Origin and Giddha, popular Punjabi folk dances, around a bonfire. Enthusiastic children go from house to The origin of the Lohri can be traced back to the house singing songs and people oblige them tale of Dulla Bhatti. The origin of Lohri is related to generously by giving them money and eatables as the central character of most Lohri songs, Dulla offering for the festival. Bhatti, a Muslim highway robber who lived in Punjab during the reign of Emperor Akbar. Besides Logs of wood are piled together for a bonfire, and robbing the rich, he rescued Hindu girls being friends and relatives gather around it. They go forcibly taken to be sold in slave market of the around the fire three times, giving offerings of Middle East. He arranged their marriages to Hindu popcorns, peanuts, rayveri and sweets. Then, to the boys with Hindu rituals and provided them with beat of the dhol (traditional Indian drum), people dowries. Understandably, though a bandit, he dance around the fire. Prasad of til, peanuts, rayveri, became a hero of all Punjabis. So every other Lohri puffed rice, popcorn, gajak and sweets is song has words to express gratitude to Dulla Bhatti. distributed. This symbolizes a prayer to Agni for abundant crops and prosperity. Some believe that Lohri has derived its name from Loi, the wife of Sant Kabir, for in rural Punjab Lohri is The day ends with a traditional feast of sarson da pronounced as Lohi. Others believe that Lohri comes saag and makki di roti and a dessert of rau di kheer from the word ‘loh’, a thick iron sheet tawa used for (a dessert made of sugarcane juice and rice). The

Lohri

12 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 purpose of the Lohri harvest ceremony is to thank and the ladies of the households prepare the God for his care and protection. During this sweetmeats. There is also a belief in the Hindus festival the people prepare large quantities of food that the harvest festival will bring great wealth and and drink, and make merry throughout the day and goodness to their homes. All the days of Pongal night. Therefore everyone looks forward to this have their own significance as separate deities are day. Jubilation at a bountiful harvest becomes the worshiped each day. reason for the celebration of Lohri. It is one of the most popular harvest festivals of Punjab, with fairs History held at various places. Men and women sing and dance around the bonfire and people come out of Pongal is an ancient festival of people in South their houses to greet one and all. India particularly Tamils. The history of the festival can be traced back to the Sangam Age ie 200 BC to Pongal 300 AD. Although, Pongal originated as a Dravidian Harvest festival and has a mention in Sanskrit In the southern parts of India, Sankrant is the Puranas, historians identify the festival with the harvest festival ‘Pongal’. The celebration of Pongal Thai Un and Thai Niradal which are believed to lasts for three days. On the first day, a preparation have been celebrated during the Sangam Age. of rice boiled with milk is offered to the Rain God. On the second day, it is offered to the Sun God and Pongal is a harvest festival celebrated with on the third day, the family cattle are given a bath religious fervor across Tamil Nadu, a southern state and dressed with flowers, bells and colours. The of India. Thai Pongal, as it is popularly called, is cattle are honoured for their hard work in the synonymous to Makar Sankranti, the harvest fields. Pongal is one of the most popular harvest festival celebrated in various regions of India, on festival of South India, mainly Tamil Nadu. Pongal 14th of January, every year. Pongal is typically falls in the mid-January every year. Celebrations celebrated from 13th of January to 16th of January, include drawing of Kolam, swinging and cooking of every year. The merrymaking starts with Bhogi, the delicious Pongal. first day of Thai Pongal. Observed as thanksgiving occasion to Lord Indra (the God of Heaven), Bhogi The Harvest Festival is the day when people burn the old and unwanted materials, like clothing and furbishes. The next day Pongal is a harvest festival—the Tamil equivalent of is observed as Surya Pongal, the day dedicated to Thanksgiving. In an agriculture based civilization honor Sun God. the harvest plays an important part. The farmer cultivating his land depends on cattle, timely rain The third day of Pongal is known as Mattu Pongal, and the Sun. Once a year, he expresses his wherein people worship farm animals. The fourth gratitude to these during the harvest festival. With day is observed as Kaanum Pongal, which is also the end of the wet month of Margazhi (mid known by the name of Karinaal or Thiruvalluvar December to mid January) the new Tamil month of Day in few places. Sarkarai Pongal is offered to Sun Thai heralds a series of festivals. The first day of God, as it is one of the important rituals of the this month is a festival day known as “Pongal Day”. fourth day of the festival. Often referred to as Pongal means the “boiling over” of milk and rice ‘Tamil Thirunal’ (the festival of Tamils), Pongal during the month of Thai. removes the barrier of caste and religion. People, irrespective of their community, celebrate the There is a Tamil saying that “Thai peranthal Vali festival with gusto. Pongal boasts of a vibrant Perakum”. That paraphrased means with the dawn history, which dates back to many centuries. of the month of Thai, there will be peace, happiness, prosperity, brightness and harmony in Unmarried girls prayed for agricultural prosperity the life of everyone. It is held to honor the Sun, for of the country and for the purpose, they observed a bountiful harvest. Families gather to rejoice and penance during the Tamil month of Margazhi, share their joy and their harvests with others. The (December-January). All through the month, they Sun is offered a “Pongal” of rice and milk. abstained themselves from the consumption of Preparations for this festival start early and the milk and milk products. They didn’t oil their hair first thing that is always found in Hindu homes throughout the month. The use of harsh words was before the start of Pongal is the ‘kolam’. This is a strictly refrained by them. Ceremonial bath in the form of decoration for the Hindus’ homes. This early morning was part of the ritual of the penance. decorative pattern is made with rice flour and is usually drawn on the floor outside the door. The The unmarried women worshipped Goddess kolams serve as a symbol of welcoming guests to Katyayani, one of the nine forms of Ma Durga. They the entrance of the house. At the center of the carved image of the deity out of sand. The women Kolam is a lump of cow-dung, which holds a five- broke their fast on the first day of the month of petaled pumpkin flower—a symbol of fertility and Thai (January-February). It was believed that the an offering of love to the presiding deity. The fast would bring abundant wealth, prosperity and houses are cleaned and decorated to prepare for bountiful crop for the year ahead. Tamil literature Pongal. For the festival, the Hindus buy new clothes has mentioned the celebration of the festival of

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 13 Thai Niradal and the observance of the penance, household. New clothes are bought and sweets and known as Pavai Nonbu. Chola King Kiluttunga used delicacies are prepared. Bull fights, bird fights and to present lands to the Veeraraghava temple at community dinners are also arranged on this day. Tiruvallur, especially for the celebration of Pongal. International Kite Festival—Festival coinciding Legends with the Festival of Makar Sankranti

Some legendary stories are also associated with Started in the year 1989, International Kite Festival Pongal festival celebrations. The two most popular attracts the connoisseurs of kites from all corners of legends of Pongal are stories related to Lord Shiva the world. It is held at Ahmedabad on January 14 and Lord Indra. According to a legend, once Shiva every year, to coincide with the festival of Uttarayan asked his bull, Basava, to go to the earth and ask or Makar Sankranti. The change in the direction of the mortals to have an oil massage and bath every winds on Makar Sankranti is marked by thousands day and to eat once a month. Inadvertently, Basava of colourful kites of all patterns and dimensions announced that everyone should eat daily and which dot the blue sky. The festival lures expert have an oil bath once a month. This mistake kite-makers and fliers not only from major cities of enraged Shiva who then cursed Basava, banishing India but also from around the world. him to live on the earth forever. He would have to plough the fields and help people produce more Kite-flying festival is also held in important cities of food. Thus is the association of this day with cattle. Gujarat each year. Young men vie with each other Another legend of Lord Indra and Lord Krishna also to win community kite-flying competitions. The led to Pongal celebrations. It is said when Lord kites are handmade and the thread is given a Krishna were in his childhood, he decided to teach coating of glass powder mixed in either resin or a a lesson to Lord Indra who became arrogant after paste made of refined wheat flour. Special mixtures becoming the King of all deities. Lord Krishna of glue and ground glass cover the threads with asked all the cowherds to stop worshiping Lord which the kites are flown. Experts specially prepare Indra. This angered Lord Indra and sent forth his these threads before the great day. They are dried clouds for thunder-storms and 3 days continuous and rolled onto reels known as ‘firkees’. These rains. Lord Krishna lifted Mount Govardhan to save threads are so sharp and can even cut the finger if all the humans. Later, Lord Indra realized his not used carefully. The day also witnesses kite mistake and divine power of Krishna. flying tournaments in which handsome cash, cups and shields are awarded as prizes to the winners. Celebrations Special kites with paper lamps (tukkals) fill the night sky with myriad flickering lights. Pongal is a popular harvest festival of Tamil Nadu. It is celebrated on 14th of January every year, Kite-flying starts at dawn and continues without a coinciding with the Lohri of Punjab, Bhogali Bihu of pause throughout the day. The festival is a time of Assam and Makar Sankranti of Uttar Pradesh and thanksgiving to the religious Gods, since it marks the Bihar. Pongal is mainly celebrated for giving thanks awakening of the gods from their long slumber. The to nature, for a bountiful harvest. This four-day Gods who are believed to have slumbered for six festival is celebrated in the season when rice (and long months are now awake and the portals of other cereals), sugar-cane and turmeric are heaven are thrown open. It is also a signal for merry- harvested. As a part of Pongal celebrations, making. People pay homage to the Gods, in temples entanceways to the houses are decorated with and alms are distributed freely. People crowd beautiful Kolams (patterns made with rice flour), to rooftops, indulge in kite fighting in a sportive spirit feed the insects and gain their blessings for the and generally have fun. Girls and Boys wearing traditional attires dance Dandiya Ras and delicious Gujarati feast is prepared to celebrate the festival.

*Parveen, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan

Source: www.Festivals.iloveindia.com, www.Indiaparenting.com, www.Lohrifestival.org, www.Pongalfestival.org, www.Funmunch.com, www.Aryabhatt.com, www.hindunet.org

Lord Vishnu

14 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 December 29, 2010

Message from Consul General of India, Sydney

Dear Friend, Indian institutions of academic excellence on faculty exchange and joint research By the time you receive this mail, preparations programmes. We hope to build further on this. would be very much afoot to bid 2010 goodbye. When I sent my end-of-the-year message to 4. Business, trade and investment links have members of the community last year, it was against grown. A unique feature has been increasing the backdrop of a particularly difficult year investment in Australia by Indian companies. It because of a spate of attacks on Indian is widely acknowledged that one of the fallouts students/community. This year, however, has seen of the GFC has been the need to seek new a series of positive developments and initiatives. I markets. Greater knowledge and information on am sure everyone welcomes this. India has helped in this regard, as indeed India’s growth trajectory. India’s increasing requirement in the infrastructural sector could see long-term 2. On the cultural front, it started off with the partnerships being forged. Sydney Festival, which saw stunning performances by the Manganiyar’s and by AR 5. On the political front, the NSW Premier’s Rahman. The Sydney Writers Festival saw an announcement for setting up a Friends of India Indian component. The Commonwealth Baton group in the NSW Parliament is testimony to yet came to Sydney and more importantly, to another common ground for friendship and Parramatta. Parramasala was a success despite partnership. the rains. Prof TN Krishnan’s violin recitals received standing ovations. A bust of Gandhiji was 6. We need to consolidate on these positive installed. And, quite frankly, these are only some developments and simultaneously identify new of the good things that happened on the cultural areas of interface and interaction. front. We need to build on the foundations that exist and keep the momentum up. 7. I must confess that I am looking forward to 2011 but more importantly, I am looking forward to 3. The interaction with the Universities has working and consulting closely with the intensified. UTS has introduced a ‘Talking India’ community on how we might further promote a series, which is becoming so popular that it is more informed understanding of India. There will likely to be introduced in more universities. Two be much to do in 2011 and if we pool our chairs are likely to be instituted, one each at UTS resources and work together, I am confident 2011 [Rajiv Gandhi Chair in Contemporary Indian will be yet another milestone year that we can Studies] and the University of Macquarie [Tagore reflect upon with a sense of satisfaction. This Chair in Indian Arts and Culture]. Macquarie has can only happen if each and every one of us is a also set up the India Research Centre and when building block. we celebrate the 150th birth anniversary of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore next year, a 8. With every good wish to you and your family, to bust of Tagore would be installed at the your friends and their families, University. Books on India have been gifted to UTS, UNSW, Universities of Sydney, Macquarie, May the coming year bring peace and happiness! Wollongong, Newcastle, Charles Sturt, and Southern Cross, apart from the NSW Parliament Amit Dasgupta and the NSW Library. Several universities have Consul General of India, Sydney taken delegations to India for building links with

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 15 Martin Luther King Jr.

Martin Luther King Jr. was born in Atlanta, Georgia University. His parents paid $25 a year which in the large twelve room house of his parents on covered all his expenses. Miss Lemon, his teacher January 15, 1929. His grandparents also lived in the taught him to be independent. She taught him if house. He was born during a time when black there was an injustice, he could rebel, but still keep people did not have the rights which they have his dignity and find quiet ways to resist. She today. M.L., as he was called, first experienced inspired her students to learn about black history racial discrimination when their white neighbors and take pride in their heritage. She took the class refused to let him play with their boys. This was on field trips to visit with successful black hard for him to understand because the boys had businessmen and professionals. Her students grown up as neighbors and had played together for started each day by singing the song, Lift Every years. At a later time he and his father were asked Voice and Sing. to move to the back of a shoe store to be fitted with shoes. They left without buying anything. These He attended Booker T. Washington High School in early incidents made a deep impression on the Atlanta. He was younger than most of the students young boy. and also skipped some subjects because he already knew the subject matter. Early Life The Discrimination When he was five years old his mother persuaded the first grade teacher, Miss Dickerson, to make On one occasion he and his teacher were riding on room for him in her class. Even though he started a bus. When the bus filled up with people, the several weeks after the other children, he soon driver asked them to stand up and let two white caught up with them academically and even people have their seats. It was the law. Martin saw surpassed them before the year was over. the injustice of it, and he never forgot that incident. When he was 15 years old he entered Morehouse He attended Oglethorpe Elementary School which College. After two years in school he decided he was a private school associated with Atlanta could best serve others by becoming a Minister. He

16 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 became Assistant Minister of the Ebenezer Baptist Then the “freedom riders” began riding buses from church where his father was Minister. The following state to state and doing “sit-ins” at lunch counters year he graduated from college. He was only 19 and “white” waiting rooms. The Jim Crow laws that years old. said blacks were to be denied certain rights began to be challenged in many cities in America. Mahatma Gandhi Peaceful marches were organized and people were arrested because they were taking part. Even little He attended Crozer Theological Seminary in children were sprayed with water hoses and Chester, Pennsylvania. While he was at Crozer he arrested! On August 28, 1963 Martin Luther King began to study the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, a and other leaders led a march into Washington D.C. man who brought about changes in India through Over 200,000 people marched from the Washington “passive resistance”. Gandhi urged people to not Monument to the Lincoln Memorial. It was here Dr. fight, but to protest peacefully. Martin saw this King delivered his “I Have a Dream” message. method of non-violent resistance as the answer to the unfair treatment blacks received in America. Nobel Peace Prize

When he was a senior at Crozer he was elected In 1964 he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in class President and also won an award as the most Norway. He gave the $54,000 prize money to the outstanding student. He worked on his Ph.D. at civil rights groups which were working to secure Boston University. It was there he met Coretta Scott the rights blacks deserved. who would become his wife. They would eventually have four children; two boys and two girls. When Final Days he graduated from Boston University he became the Minister of the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Dr. King was put in jail 30 times for his resistance. Montgomery, Alabama. Some people tried to kill him. In an attempt to raise money for the campaign, King accepted an Blacks and whites were segregated in Montgomery, invitation to speak in support of Memphis attending different schools and sitting in separate sanitation workers on March 18, 1968. A mishandled sections on buses. Sometimes blacks would be demonstration on March 28 collapsed in disorder. forced to stand on a bus even though there were King planned a new, better-organized demonstration empty seats in the “white” section at the front of and gave a very moving address to an audience of the bus. On December 1, 1955 Mrs. Rosa Parks 500 at Memphis Temple on April 3. He spoke of and refused to give up her seat on a bus. The police accepted the possibility of his own death, a were called and she was arrested. This event led to recurring theme in his speeches. The following a revolt all over America. evening, shortly after 5:30 pm, King was shot and killed on the balcony outside his motel room. The Boycott King’s assassination led to disturbances in well E.D. Nixon, who was a train porter, bailed Rosa out over 100 cities and, before the violence subsided of jail, and he started contacting others about on April 11, there were deaths of 46 people (mostly starting a boycott of the buses. “Boycott” means African Americans), 35,000 injuries, and 20,000 they would refuse to ride the buses until they people jailed. On April 9 King’s funeral was held in received fair treatment. The newspapers heard of Ebenezer; in addition to the 800 people crammed the plan and wrote an article. This article was very into the sanctuary, a crowd of 60,000 to 70,000 helpful in getting the word out about the boycott. stood in the streets. He was buried in Southview Cemetery, near his grandmother. On his crypt were The black leaders were asking for courteous carved the words he often used: “Free At Last, Free treatment from the drivers and seating on a first- At Last Thank God Almighty I’m Free At Last.” come, first-served basis, with whites filling the buses from the front of the bus and blacks from the In 1986 Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday became a rear. No one was to be asked to give up a seat for national holiday. While alive, King became the someone else. They also wanted black drivers in symbol of hope for African Americans and for the areas where they lived. America as a whole that brotherhood and sisterhood could be obtained. The quintessential The boycott lasted for more than a year and they black leader, King’s legacy reminds one of how far walked, rode bicycles, and rode in car pools to get America has come, and how far it still has to go. to work. In December of 1956 the Supreme Court ruled that bus segregation was unlawful. In 1957 Dr. Source: http://gardenofpraise.com, King helped establish the Southern Christian www.gale.cengage.com Leadership Conference (SCLC) and became its President. Black students began to stage “sit-ins” at lunch counters. Up until this time they had been forbidden food service at eating places.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 17 Destroy your 2010 worries and fears and start boss, bad job, bad test scores or all kind of stuffs. afresh in the New Year! These papers are put in a giant shredder set up at Times Square, then the shredded paper is recycled On December 28 the public was invited to say as toilet rolls, thus nobody will see that again. goodbye to their worst memories of 2010 once and for all on Good Riddance Day! Whether it was a Since September people participate in Cintas picture of an old flame, a bad report card, a pile of Contest to be the official “First to Shred” at Good old credit card statements, a sports team's record Riddance Day. The prize winner receives a five-night for this year, a picture of an old boss, or saying trip to New York City for New Year’s Eve festivities. goodbye to the home that took forever to sell, they This year Tiffany Bradley from Knoxville, Tennessee, told us what they were eager to say Good Riddance won the contest to shred her paid-off medical bills to from 2010. This is a chance to start afresh in 2011! from a life-threatening and emergency surgery.

If People want to throw away their worst memories Good Riddance Day (USA) has some similarities to from the current year to look forward to the next the festival of Holi as both look forward for the one, Good Riddance Day is the suitable celebration. harmony in people’s life, to forget the bad things It is being organized in New York on 28th December and start over again in a positive attitude. This is since 2007 by the Times Square Alliance as a way to an opportunity for all people to bid farewell of what start with right foot the New Year, getting rid of the they do not want to carry into the New Year. And it unpleasant experiences. Everybody is invited to is a chance to start fresh in 2011! bring their bad moments and memories in paper of ex love, big bills, credit card statements, debts, evil Compiled by Priscila Molina M

Christmas spirit

People know Christmas has arrived in Matraville want a photo with Santa or the reindeers. suburb when the houses turn on their lights, like in Clarence St., Gwydir Ave., Barwon Cres, and its This is wonderful, spectacular and a tradition surroundings. There is an extreme make-over in the which remains among the community. houses, as people join to express the Christmas spirit. Lights, plants, electronic figures and dolls Priscila Molina M. are used to decorate them.

The styles differ among the houses providing more diversity for all preferences. It can be appreciated a summer Santa with bathing suit, glasses and his own surf board or sitting in his jet ski. It is funny to find Rene the frog, Pikachu, teddy bears or Homer Simpson in the decorations. Everything is possible to make colorful and beautiful creations.

In some houses, people can approach and look through the windows because there is more inside; or they can walk in some courtyards.

This suburb gives a welcome to everybody who comes at night to see the houses and have a good time walking around the neighborhood. They cannot miss their camera to capture incredible photos; especially children who are delightful and

18 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 2011 A New Year Prayer

An old pull of subconscious cords renews; Always the power poured back like sudden rain, It draws the unwilling spirit from the heights, Or slowly in his breast a presence grew; Or a dull gravitation drags us down It clambered back to some remembered height To the blind driven inertia of our base. Or soared above the peak from which it fell. This too the supreme Diplomat can use, Each time he rose there was a larger poise, He makes our fall a means for greater rise. A dwelling on a higher spirit plane; –Sri Aurobindo* The Light remained in him a longer space. – Sri Aurobindo** In yoga, there are phases of rapid progress and of slow progress, as also phases of rise and fall. The Dr. Ramesh Bijlani fall comes because we are made up of many parts, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Delhi Branch each part having its own preferences. Till the mind New Delhi 110 016 and the intellect have been fully transformed, they 2656-7863, 9312 83 0265 tend to push us in a direction different from that to http://auromirayoga.blogspot.com which our divine essence, the psychic being, tries to pull us. Even after we have managed to rise to a The hours that are wasted in doing level of consciousness that is in tune with our nothing good or useful are the most tiring. psychic being, the gravitational pull of the - The Mother emotional or intellectual parts of our being may drag us down. When that happens, the psychic * In: Savitri, Book I, Canto 3, p. 34 (1970 Edition) ** In: Savitri, Book I, Canto 3, p. 35 (1970 Edition) being does not say ‘no’. It lets us do whatever we feel like doing. That is perhaps why Sri Aurobindo has called the Divine the supreme Diplomat. A diplomat never says ‘no’; when he wants to say ‘no’, he says ‘may be’! However, like a diplomat, the Divine never gives up either. It continues to haunt us. Every time we fall, it makes us feel uneasy. It renews and reinforces our aspiration by enticing us with sublime joy. It offers us the prospects of lasting mental peace if only we mend our ways and listen to the faint but clear and powerful voice that It has planted in us. It guides us how, after the fall, we can use our new circumstances for a rise. And, if we respond to the divine guidance, the new rise is invariably a greater rise than the one from which we fell.

In the New Year that is beginning, let us pray that all the falls that we had during the year that has gone by become, through the Mother’s Grace, the means for a greater rise.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 19 THE NEW POWER GAME

Asia’s Fragile Special Relationship

between the two countries. Such an approach might make tactical diplomatic sense, as long as there is no background clatter. But it lacks a sense of strategic urgency, which, given rising international tensions across Asia, amounts to a serious strategic blunder.

The sources of those tensions are clear: North Korea’s shelling of South Korea’s Yeonpyeong Island and its flaunting of a modern, previously unknown, nuclear plant; the US-led armada now cruising through the South China and Yellow Sea; and China’s claim that the South China Sea is an area of vital national interest akin to Tibet.

In its bilateral relations with India, China’s shift in focus from its claims on the Northeastern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh to Jammu and Kashmir is enormously worrisome. Indeed, around Gilgit in New Delhi: “Tzu-Ch’in said to Tzu-Kung: …Our Kashmir, China’s People’s Liberation Army has Master gets things (done) by being cordial, frank, greatly enhanced its troop presence. Small wonder courteous, temperate, deferential. That is that, on the eve of Wen’s visit, China’s Ambassador our…way.” But will Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao in New Delhi finds relations between the two live up to that standard, as conveyed in the countries to be “very fragile, easily damaged, and Analects of Confucius, on his current visit to India? difficult to repair.” The world has a variety of “special relationships.” The But, despite all this diplomatic friction, Wen’s United States’ partnership with the United Kingdom is entourage for his visit is dominated by a large one forged in war—and a pillar of the West for more business delegation. Currently, both countries’ than a half-century. The US-Soviet rivalry of the Cold economies are thrusting confidently forward; both War era was special in that relations between those are thirsty for more and bigger markets. two countries shaped the fate of the world until the USSR imploded. The US and China are said to be India is growing at an annual rate of around 9%; forging a new special relationship. China at around 10%. So the opportunities for trade between the two are certainly enormous. But, for But, in looking toward the future of Asia—and, both countries, economic growth is not hurdle-free. indeed, the future of world diplomacy—it is the relationship between the world’s two most India’s economy is continuing to grow, but faces populous countries and largest emerging rising inflation, fiscal and current-account deficits, a economies, India and China, which will increasingly slowdown in agricultural growth, and infrastructure set the global agenda. Japan’s change of military bottlenecks. China’s problems arise mainly from doctrine for the first time since the start of the Cold widening income disparities, which are inciting War—a shift that implicitly makes China the hitherto unheard of levels of labor unrest—though greatest threat—suggests that the Chinese this should not be viewed as a precursor to change leadership needs to take a hard look at its regional of the sort that marked the rise of the Solidarity grand strategy. trade union and the end of communism in Poland.

Wen’s priorities for his trip to India are clear: trade, But labor unrest and the desire to maintain 10% security, and, far behind, the territorial disputes growth suggest that China should be taking the

20 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 lead in ensuring peace on the Korean peninsula and suggests tactical cooperation with India. That is a preventing other political developments from convenient international ploy, but it leaves the derailing its economy. After all, as the Chinese sources of bilateral discord unattended. leadership knows, only continued strong growth will provide the government with the wriggle room The idea of collaboration only in areas of interest to it needs to begin to revalue the renminbi. China while neglecting issues of substance to India is untenable, even in the short term. Indeed, Revaluation of its currency is necessary in part neglect of the core disputes is what has resulted in because the undervalued renminbi has become yet the relationship’s “extreme fragility.” India cannot another a source of friction in Asia, as many in the and will not abandon its territorial sovereignty, or region now believe the Chinese are using their its pursuit of secure land borders or a greater currency as a “policy weapon.” To untangle the balance in trade. complex policy web surrounding the renminbi’s value will demand greater regional stability, not less. These are challenges that cry out for clarity, not diplomatic fudges. But surely two great and ancient Yet China’s international grand strategy does not civilizations can find their way to the type of appear to reflect this. Instead, it remains focused on “cordial, frank, courteous, temperate, deferential…” Northeast Asia, Tibet, Taiwan, and on its aspirations relations that would have pleased Confucius. to move into the Indian Ocean, that great global highway of trade in the twenty-first century. Jaswant Singh

China’s leaders recognize that their country needs Jaswant Singh, a former Foreign Minister, time, space, and peace for economic development. Finance Minister, and Defense Minister of India, is Yet their pursuit of a dominant position on the a member of the opposition in India’s Parliament. strategic chokepoints in the Indian Ocean He is the Author of Jinnah: India – Partition – undermines these goals by raising tensions not Independence. only with India, but with Asia’s other powers and the US. Their focus on inhibiting India seems Copyright: Project Syndicate, 2010, particularly misguided, given that China’s core Source: www.project-syndicate.org interests (Tibet, Taiwan, and the heartland of the Chinese mainland) are far beyond the reach of most of India’s military capabilities.

By contrast, India’s most important national security concerns—the unsettled border between the two countries, and Beijing’s ties with Pakistan, which often operates as a Chinese surrogate—are closely connected to China: Both factors are directly linked to China’s perceived threat to India’s Himalayan territory and its rapid development of strategic infrastructure in that region. India’s concerns also focus on China’s ongoing supply of arms, including missiles and nuclear weapons technology, to Pakistan.

No amount of discussion over trade can obscure the true issues of vital concern between China and India. China may take comfort in remaining focused on non-core issues, because such an approach

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 21 BUDDHISM IN DAILY LIFE

Compassion: Solidarity of the Heart

The most basic wish of all people is to live happily. that arises in the encounter with suffering and Yet human society is shaped by forces that work which gives rise to action. Buddhist compassion powerfully against this basic desire: from pervasive could be succinctly described then as the desire to violence, to wanton environmental destruction, to relieve suffering and to give joy. the exploitation that structures such deep inequalities between people. Compassion is often thought of as akin to pity, but whereas pity may be condescending, compassion Buddhism sheds light on the inner dynamics of springs from a sense of the equality and human life that lead us to create such an undesirable interconnectedness of life. Compassion is rooted in reality. One of the most pernicious and powerful respect for the inherent dignity of life—our own desires inherent in human life, according to Buddhist and others’—and a desire to see that dignity thought, is the desire for power over others, the urge triumph. As SGI President Ikeda writes, “True to subjugate other people to our will. In this Buddhist compassion has nothing to do with condition, the ego finds its most unrestrained and sentimentality or mere pity. This is because destructive expression, regarding others simply as a sentimentality or mere pity cannot help the other means to satisfy its selfish objectives. person achieve victory in life; it cannot truly relieve suffering and impart joy.” Buddhism symbolically personifies this exploitative, authoritarian impulse as the Devil King of the Sixth Heaven. Its imprint is evident everywhere in our “Genuine compassion world. Recognizing the rampancy of this impulse, Nichiren, the 13th-century founder of the Buddhism is about empowering practiced by the SGI, described the world as the domain of the devil king, and all people as being others.” under the rule of this devil.

But if human nature is the cause of our most dire Because genuine compassion is about empowering global problems, it is also the source of the others, helping them unlock strength and courage fundamental solution. The countervailing force to from within their lives in order to overcome their the destructive aspect to human nature and the problems, it may sometimes appear stern or suffering it engenders is compassion. Compassion, contradictory. For example, although resolving a a sense of solidarity with others—with all life— difficult situation for someone may seem arising from a wish for mutual happiness and compassionate, if this ends up making them weaker growth, is the heart and origin of Buddhism. and less self-reliant, this will not contribute to their actual happiness in life. The essence of compassion In the original Sanskrit Buddhist texts, the concept is empowerment. of compassion is described by the words maitri and anukampa. Maitri indicates a sense of fellowship The effort to offer others effective encouragement with others; anukampa describes a deep empathy for their specific circumstances is what gives rise

22 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 to wisdom. Compassion and wisdom are thus others’ lives is the core of the philosophy of closely related. Furthermore, even small acts of Nichiren Buddhism. It is also the bedrock of a firm kindness require a degree of courage. optimism upon which all people can base their actions to bring about positive change in our world. Nichiren established the practice of chanting Nam- myoho-renge-kyo as a practical means for people to “Genuine compassion is about empowering others. bring forth the strength and rich potential of their The effort to offer others effective encouragement humanity and live with confidence and joy. Sharing for their specific circumstances is what gives rise this practice with others is therefore the most to wisdom.” essential act of compassion for practitioners of Nichiren Buddhism. Source: www.sgiquarterly.org, Photo credit: [©Imagezoo/Getty Images] Published with The transformation of society can only occur permission. through a transformation of people’s hearts. A life based on compassion means a staunch belief in the unrealized potential of others and ourselves. It is easy to give up on ourselves and others in the face of our failure and foolishness; such loss of faith in humanity is characteristic of our troubled world today. To continue to believe in and encourage the innate goodness and potential of our own and

Christmas celebration BMG Group Australia and Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan celebrated the joyful and camaraderie of Christmas on 21 December. All the staff enjoyed an Indian lunch at Zaafran in Darling Harbor. The nice environment, delicious food and good company were the appropriate elements for a lovely meeting.

In the photo, Right: Karan Shrestha, Parveen Dahiya, Gambhir Watts, Mrinaal Rambhojun. Left: Emily Phuong, Karen Brabant, Priscila Molina, Victoria, Mahmood Khan.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 23 Consciousness

Consciousness is a confusing word because it has society. Its counterpart in the capital of India, the two valid and interrelated, but quite distinct, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Delhi Branch, can best be meanings. In ordinary language, and in understood as an extension of the centre of neurophysiology, consciousness means sadhana at Pondicherry. What is being done in this awareness—when so used in writing, spiritual endeavour is the overcoming of the consciousness begins with a small ‘c’, unless it is ascetic phase of the Indian tradition, which in a the first word in a sentence. In spiritual literature, lopsided way equated spirituality with outer Consciousness (spelt with a capital ‘C’) means an renunciation. In the Vedic times, integral life, awareness that is much wider, deeper and higher prosperity, equality of sexes and a life-affirming than ordinary human awareness. Although there is attitude were cultivated by spiritual seekers. This a superficial resemblance between the two integral approach was lost in later epochs when meanings, and therefore also a justification, the Mayavada (Illusionism) prevailed. difference is enormous. Aurobindo Ashram Delhi was officially inaugurated If we go back to the times when the material universe on 12 February, 1956 and has been growing at a did not exist, the only ‘thing’ that existed was God. steady pace since then. The shrine and the God was a non-material entity, but was everywhere Meditation Hall continue to be the centre of life and (omnipresent), all-powerful (omnipotent) and all- the teaching of Sri Aurobindo. All live and work here knowing (omniscient). According to the spiritual as equals. No distinctions of sex, creed, religion, philosophy called Vedanta, when God chose to race, caste or national origin are observed: all are manifest in a material form, the result was the looked upon as souls and children of the Mother. creation of the material universe. Since the material There is no hierarchy of officials and subordinates. creation is just another form of the all-knowing or All work in association and as a unit under the supremely conscious God, the Supreme general supervision of one or more sadhaks. Consciousness of the Creator is hidden in all creation. However, different forms of creation express the The doors of the Ashram are open for those who Supreme Consciousness to varying degrees. Non- aspire for a higher life, with the trust that their living things express so little of it that they seem aspiration will not stop merely at having a pious wish unconscious. Primitive forms of life express a little for a higher and nobler aim, but will manifest more of it. Animals with a mind express still more of increasingly in the thoughts, the life movements and it. Human beings, by far, express more of it than any the physical expressions—which will all be other animal. But even human consciousness is only progressively and integrally consecrated to the Divine. a very small fraction of the Supreme Consciousness. However, human consciousness is unique in having According to Sri Aurobindo “all life is Yoga.” In the the capability of undergoing remarkable growth over Integral Yoga, the integral life down to the smallest a lifetime. Thus, a human being need not die with the detail has to be divinised: an inner illumination that same level of consciousness with which he is born. does not change the outer life leaves the world as it Yoga and other similar disciplines accelerate the is. The object of our Yoga is self-perfection and growth of consciousness. A few rare individuals grow world-perfection. so much in consciousness in a lifetime that their consciousness approaches Supreme Consciousness Dr Ramesh Bijlani itself. Such a person lives with a sort of double vision. Dr Ramesh Bijlani, a product of the All India Like everybody else, he is aware of what he can see Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), is engaged in or hear. In addition, he is aware of the Spirit of the research on diet in relation to cardiovascular Divine within everything animate and inanimate. His disease and diabetes for more than 25 years. He got awareness includes also the unseen hand of the established a patient care facility for providing Divine behind all happenings. All his outer actions are courses on yoga for prevention and management of also moulded by this higher, wider and deeper chronic diseases at AIIMS in the year 2000. Prof. awareness, or as Sri Aurobindo says, he acquires the Bijlani is the Author of 12 books, more than 200 nature of the Divine. The consciousness of this research articles, and more than 40 popular articles. person may be spelt with a capital ‘C’. Apparently just He has been speaking on yoga and related subjects a change from ‘c’ to ‘C’, and yet what a great for more than 10 years. Currently he is attached to difference it is! (From a work in progress: Timeless Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Delhi Branch, where he Wisdom in Small Doses) gives talks and conducts programs on yoga. Sri Aurobindo Ashram Source: http://auromirayoga.blogspot.com, Sri Aurobindo Ashram at Pondicherry was once http://www.sriaurobindoashram.net called a veritable laboratory to work out the future

24 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Seven Blunders of the World

Mahatma Gandhi during his last days used to allocate at least one hour for his grandson, Arun Gandhi. Probably he wanted his grandson to keep continuing his good works or keep doing the right things in the future after he is gone.

Mahatma Gandhi gave a written note, “Seven Blunders of the World” list, to his grandson Arun, just before he was assassinated on the final day. The list shows the primary factors that contribute to violence and wars in this world.

The Seven Blunders are:

· Wealth without work · Pleasure without conscience · Knowledge without character · Commerce without morality · Science without humanity · Worship without sacrifice · Politics without principle

This list grew from Gandhi’s search for the roots of violence over the years. He calls these acts as passive violence. He wanted his grandson and others to avoid these seven blunders if they wanted to prevent violence in this world.

Arun Gandhi later added the eighth blunder, “Rights without responsibilities”.

Stephen Covey also referred these Seven Blunders in his book “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” and said all the blunders have to do with social and political conditions, and the antidote of each of these “deadly sins” is an explicit external standard, or something based on natural principles and laws, not on social values. He claims that “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” help one avoid these seven blunders.

We can see all the violence that is happening around us, a majority of them can be attributed to these blunders.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 25 Australia India Institute International Advisory Committee

The International Advisory Committee (IAC) to strengthen institutional capabilities of provides timely and strategic advice to the institutions for Asian economic cooperation and Australia India Institute. It assists the Institute in integration. planning for its future and on the implementation of these plans. The IAC consists of a Chair and Deputy Chair: Mr John committee members. McCarthy AO

Dr Isher Judge Mr John McCarthy has Ahluwalia - Chair served as Australia’s Ambassador to Vietnam Isher Judge Ahluwalia is (1981-83), Ambassador Chairperson, Board of to Mexico (1985-87), Governors, the Indian Ambassador to Council for Research on Thailand (1992-94), International Economic Ambassador to the Relations (ICRIER), United States from 1995 where she served as to 1997, Ambassador to Director and Chief Indonesia (1997-2001) Executive from 1997 to and Ambassador to Japan (27 July 2001-2004). He 2001. Dr Ahluwalia was has also served in Damascus, Baghdad and awarded Padma Vientiane. He was appointed High Commissioner to Bhushan by the President of India in the year 2009 India in 2004 until 2009. From 1994-95, McCarthy for her services in the field of education and was Deputy Secretary in the Department of Foreign literature. Dr Ahluwalia is Chairperson of the High Affairs and Trade in Canberra. Powered Expert Committee on Urban Infrastructure, appointed by the Ministry of Urban Born in Washington, D.C., McCarthy was educated Development, Government of India in May 2008. at Cambridge University where he received a She is also Member, National Manufacturing Master of Arts and a Bachelor of Laws degree. He is Competitiveness Council, Government of India. Dr a barrister-at-law and practised in London from Ahluwalia was Vice Chairperson of the Punjab State 1965 to 1966. He worked with the New York Law Planning Board from 2005 to 2007. Dr Ahluwalia is Firm of Shearman & Sterling from 1966 to 1967 and on the Boards of a number of premier research joined the then-Australian Foreign Service in 1968. institutes in India. McCarthy has two daughters.

Dr Ahluwalia is Vice Chairperson, Global Mr McCarthy is now Chair of the Australia-India Development Network, New Delhi and Member, Council and in October takes up the position of Board of Trustees of the International Water National President of the Australian Institute of Management Institute, Sri Lanka. She was International Affairs. Chairperson, Board of Trustees of the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Washington, Committee Members D.C. from 2003 to 2006. Dr Ahluwalia was a Member of the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) of the Asian Dr Indu Shahani - Development Bank, which submitted its report, Committee Member “Towards a New Asian Development Bank in a New Dr (Mrs) Indu Shahani, Asia” in May 2008. She was a member of the Principal of H.R. College Commission on Macro-Economics and Health of Commerce & which submitted its report to the Director General, Economics was WHO in 2002. Dr Ahluwalia is currently Member, appointed Sheriff of Advisory Group on Institutional and Human Mumbai on January 5, Resources Management, the Asian Development 2008 and is now in her Bank. She is also Member, External Review and third term for the same. Advisory Board to the Asian Development Bank on The Sheriff of Mumbai their flagship study “Institutions for Regionalism”

26 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 is an honorary post and is a link between the to 1980. Additionally, he has been an advisor to citizens and the Government, providing an Fujitsu Limited in Japan and is a director of Fujitsu opportunity to make a difference within the in the ASEAN region. Mr Roach is a member of the communities of Mumbai. Dr (Mrs) Indu Shahani’s Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA), nomination to Boards of large National and Global of which he was Chairman from 1994-1996. He is a Companies has provided the impetus to the Fellow of the Australian Computer Society (FACS). platform for significant collaboration between He has also served on the New South Wales Industry and Academia, as well as bringing Government’s Information Technology Advisory diversity to the Boards of these Corporations given Board of and the Victorian Premier’s the width of her experience. Dr Indu Shahani who is Communications and Multimedia Task Force. the first Indian to be appointed Vice-Chair on the Board of the Governors of the International Mr. Roach is a Director of OneSteel Limited, Baccalaureate and has over a decade of experience Chairman Emeritus of the Australia India Business with the IB. Recognised as an international Council and Chairman of Tata Consultancy Services academician currently Dr (Mrs) Indu Shahani is Financial Solutions (TCS-FS), TCS Management and Advisor - India, for IBO. The IBO has over 2000 the Advisory Committee of the Centre of Excellence schools in 124 countries and provides education for Quantum Computing Technology. He also across the world. served as Chairman of TAFE Global and a member of the Board and New South Wales President of the Dr Shahani is a Visiting Faculty Member at the UC Committee for the Economic Development of Berkeley, and School of Management NJIT, USA and Australia (CEDA). she is a Lead Speaker at various conferences in India and abroad. She has also developed many Mr Roach was a member of the Australian linkages for student and faculty exchanges with Government’s Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) leading universities in USA, UK, Australia and New Committee from 1990 to 1999 and the inaugural Zealand. Dr Shahani has received many awards, Chairman of National ICT Australia Limited (NICTA - prominent among them are ‘Women’s Achievers’ Australia’s pre-eminent ICT Centre of Excellence). Award’ by Young Environmentalists Programme Trust, ‘Woman of the Year Award’ by Junior Mr Roach was the Chairman of the National Chamber International, ‘Excellence in Education Multicultural Advisory Council from 1996 to 1999, Award’ at the FLO Great Women Achiever Awards, and its successor the Council for Multicultural ‘The Giants International Education Award’, Australia (CMA), which reports to the Prime ‘Achievement Award’ by Sahyog Foundation, Minister, and the Minister for Immigration and Women Graduates’ Union Award for Education and Multicultural Affairs, from 1999 to 2002. He was also ‘The KAP Mumbai Education Award’. Chairman of the Business (Migration) Advisory Panel, (BAP), which advised the Minister on all Mr Neville Roach AO aspects of business migration, from 1997 to 2002.

Mr Roach is the Mr Roach was appointed an Officer of the Order of Chairman of the Smart Australia (AO) in 2000 for service to business Services CRC and its especially the ICT industry and for his contribution predecessor Smart to the development of Australian Multiculturalism. Internet Technology In January 2008 he received the Pravasi Bharatiya CRC. He retired as Samman Award (Overseas Indian Honour Award) Chairman of Fujitsu from the President of India. Australia Limited in March, 2004, having Source: www.aii.unimelb.edu.au been head of the Company from 1989 to 2000 after joining it in 1980. He has had an extensive career in the Information Technology and Telecommunications industry, which began with IBM Australia from 1965

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 27 International Encounter Association Launch in Sydney

The poet and the Encounter About Encounter

More than 100 people attended the first activity of Encounter, is an International Cultural Association the cultural association Encounter in Sydney on the that seeks to give an answer to the challenge of 17th of November, 2010. The talk “The Poet and the promoting an authentic human culture. This Encounter” delivered by Sandra Sato Sakaguchi, organization is looking to respond to the yearnings was a reflection about friendship and relationships and deeper needs of the human being. in the beloved French book ‘The Little Prince’. It was founded in Lima, Peru in the year 2001 and it Sandra, born in Lima Peru and International is present in Italy, Ecuador, Chile, Dominican Director of Encounter, gave a deep overview of the Republic and now in Sydney. Ana Maria Palacio, French author Antoine De Saint Exupery, Director of Encounter in Sydney, said that the emphasising his deep insights and reflections into launch in Sydney has had a really positive response human nature within his many works. and Encounter hope to hold at least two more reflections about different literary works of other “‘The Little Prince’ by Frenchman, Antoine de Saint- renowned authors. Exupery, was a book I loved to read when I was little girl. But rereading it as an adult, I discovered “There is a great amount of cultural offers in the it contained many interesting elements and market, especially in countries like Australia. reflections I hadn’t noticed as a child,” says a Nevertheless there is not always an interest to member of the Marian Community of Reconciliation promote those values that are particularly human (Fraternas) and lecturer Sandra Sato Sakaguchi, on and help in the growth and improvement of the the eve of her talk in Australia. human being therefore the society we live in,” says Ana Maria. “That is what Encounter is trying to do”. Sandra is convinced “The Little Prince” has a great deal to teach us about relationships, the encounter The Phenomenon of Encounter in South America with others, and believes much of the symbolism contained in the book offers a strong critique of the Trying to find a way to promote values on culture, world we live in, and how our role as human beings Encounter started with initiatives such as talks and must be anchored in reality and given meaning discussions around a literary author. Later the through our relationships and particularly through association was expanded to other areas of the our encounter with God. culture such as: art exhibitions, musical concerts and even the creation of a children’s choir with kids Writers, interpreters, university students, lawyers from the shantytowns of Lima. among others attended this lecture in the headquarters of Alliance Françoise de Sydney on Encounter started as an idea to promote the most Wednesday, 17 November. This event is the authentic human values present in the culture, says beginning of many others that Encounter Sydney is Sandra Sato. Having blessed by John Paul II as an planning to hold. inspiration and listening to his call to transform the culture into a more human one, we started our first

28 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 activities in Lima in the year 2001. The first stage to Normandy and take part of the Choir festival we concentrated our efforts to analyze the most “Polyfollia” in 2007. urgent needs in the different areas of the culture and after that we started to plan activities related This was a dream that came true and an open to art, literature, movies, and that same year we eyeing experience for a boy that never imagined started a publication. himself going overseas either singing with some of the most talented young musicians in Europe. Now Encounter’s electronic newsletter already reaches Giovanni, gifted with a beautiful voice, is currently more than 10,000 users with this expected to rise taking music classes in the National Conservatory sharply once young people across Australia of Music in Peru and pursuing his dream to sing become aware of Encounter and its aims, together professionally one day. with the rich range of cultural activities, and discussions planned for the future. The choir has grown and counts now with approximately 30 kids who have been invited to Seeds of Hope—Bearing Fruit through Music give Christmas concerts every year in different places in Lima and also to sing along with some Many of the children who live in Shantytowns in professional orchestras such as the Orquesta Lima don’t have access to education. Their families Sinfonica de Lima de Peru pieces of Vivaldi an come to the city in pursuit of a better life but end Carmina Burana. up in the streets. The fate of these kids is to go out and try to survive selling lilies or simply begging in It has been an interesting experience to see how the lights of the streets. different volunteers from overseas and musicians have been evolved during the past years giving the Aware of the need to support and promote these kids, kids the opportunity to learn from them but also Encounter started a choir in 2002 in the shantytown finding a way to serve others with their talents, Villa Libertad. With the help of a music teacher the says Beatriz Palacio, In Charge of Public Relations kids started weekly classes and after 6 months of of Encounter. rehearsals the improvement was notorious. This is one of the initiatives that Encounter has in Many of the kids, naturally talented, have had the South America and now, present in Sydney, the opportunity to develop their skills and some others challenge will be to try to find a way to respond to the who probably won’t pursue the musical path, have people of this culture and to try to promote human had the opportunity to grow, to learn discipline and values in a society that apparently has not physical most importantly to have a little hope that their hunger but is longing for meaning in their lives. lives can be better and that there is another path different to the violence and the delinquency. Ana Maria Palacio Journalist and Director of Encounter in Sydney Giovanni, one of the kids who have been part of the choir for more than 4 years was sponsored by an Seeds of Hope: www.corosemillasdeesperanza.com international institution and had the privilege to fly Encounter: www.encounterwebsite.com

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 29 Ending the Never-Ending War on Drugs

Sao Paulo: The war on drugs is a lost war, and 2011 the drug trade—and thus its power—we must is the time to move away from a punitive approach redirect our efforts to the harm caused by drugs to in order to pursue a new set of policies based on people and societies, and to reducing consumption. public health, human rights, and common sense. These were the core findings of the Latin American Some kind of drug consumption has existed Commission on Drugs and Democracy that I throughout history in the most diverse cultures. convened, together with former Presidents Ernesto Today, drug use occurs throughout society. All Zedillo of Mexico and César Gaviria of Colombia. kinds of people use drugs for all kinds of reasons: to relieve pain or experience pleasure, to escape We became involved with this issue for a reality or enhance their perception of it. compelling reason: the violence and corruption associated with drug trafficking represents a major But the approach recommended in the threat to democracy in our region. This sense of Commission’s statement does not imply urgency led us to evaluate current policies and look complacency. Drugs are harmful to health. They for viable alternatives. The evidence is undermine users’ decision-making capacity. Needle- overwhelming. The prohibitionist approach, based sharing spreads HIV/AIDS and other diseases. on repression of production and criminalization of Addiction can lead to financial ruin and domestic consumption, has clearly failed. abuse, especially of children.

After 30 years of massive effort, all prohibitionism Cutting consumption as much as possible must, has achieved is to shift areas of cultivation and therefore, be the main goal. But this requires drug cartels from one country to another (the so- treating drug users not as criminals to be called balloon effect). Latin America remains the incarcerated, but as patients to be cared for. Several world’s largest exporter of cocaine and marijuana. countries are pursuing policies that emphasize Thousands of young people continue to lose their prevention and treatment rather than repression— lives in gang wars. Drug lords rule by fear over and refocusing their repressive measures on entire communities. fighting the real enemy: organized crime.

We ended our report with a call for a paradigm The crack in the global consensus around the shift. The illicit drug trade will continue as long as prohibitionist approach is widening. A growing there is demand for drugs. Instead of sticking to number of countries in Europe and Latin America failed policies that do not reduce the profitability of are moving away from a purely repressive model.

30 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Portugal and Switzerland are compelling examples No country has devised a comprehensive solution of the positive impact of policies centered on to the drug problem. But a solution need not prevention, treatment, and harm reduction. Both require a stark choice between prohibition and countries have decriminalized drug possession for legalization. The worst prohibition is the personal use. Instead of leading to an explosion of prohibition to think. Now, at last, the taboo that drug consumption, as many feared, the number of prevented debate has been broken. Alternative people seeking treatment increased and overall approaches are being tested and must be carefully drug use fell. reviewed.

When the policy approach shifts from criminal At the end of the day, the capacity of people to repression to public health, drug users are more evaluate risks and make informed choices will be as open to seeking treatment. Decriminalization of important to regulating the use of drugs as more consumption also reduces dealers’ power to humane and efficient laws and policies. Yes, drugs influence and control consumers’ behavior. erode people’s freedom. But it is time to recognize that repressive policies towards drug users, rooted In our report, we recommend evaluating from a as they are in prejudice, fear, and ideology, may be public-health standpoint—and on the basis of the no less a threat to liberty. most advanced medical science—the merits of decriminalizing possession of cannabis for Fernando Henrique Cardoso personal use. Fernando Henrique Cardoso, a former President of Brazil (1995-2002 ), is Co-Chair “Decriminalization of the Latin American Commission on Drugs and Democracy, and Convener of the Global of cannabis would thus Commission on Drug Policy. Copyright: Project Syndicate, 2010. be an important step Source: www.project-syndicate.org forward in approaching drug use as a health problem and not as a matter for the criminal justice system.”

Marijuana is by far the most widely used drug. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that the harm it causes is at worst similar to the harm caused by alcohol or tobacco. Moreover, most of the damage associated with marijuana use—from the indiscriminate incarceration of consumers to the violence and corruption associated with the drug trade—is the result of current prohibitionist policies.

Decriminalization of cannabis would thus be an important step forward in approaching drug use as a health problem and not as a matter for the criminal justice system.

To be credible and effective, decriminalization must be combined with robust prevention campaigns. The steep and sustained drop in tobacco consumption in recent decades shows that public information and prevention campaigns can work when based on messages that are consistent with the experience of those whom they target. Tobacco was de-glamorized, taxed, and regulated; it has not been banned.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 31 Faith in a Globalized Age

London: For years, it was assumed, certainly in the more Muslims in China than in Europe, more West, that, as society developed, religion would wither practicing Protestants than in England, and more away. But it hasn’t, and, at the start of a new decade, it practicing Catholics than in Italy. In addition, is time for policymakers to take religion seriously. according to the latest surveys, around 100 million Chinese identify themselves as Buddhist. And, of The number of people proclaiming their faith course, Confucianism—a philosophy rather than a worldwide is growing. This is clearly so in the Islamic religion—is deeply revered. world. Whereas Europe’s birthrate is stagnant, the Arab population is set to double in the coming There is a huge Evangelical movement in Brazil and decades, and the population will rise in many Asian Mexico. Faith remains for many in the United States Muslim-majority countries. Christianity is also a vital part of their lives. Even in Europe, the growing—in odd ways and in surprising places. numbers confessing to a belief in God remain high. And, of course there are hundreds of millions of Religion’s largest growth is in China. Indeed, the Hindus and still solid numbers of Sikhs and Jews. religiosity of China is worth reflecting on. There are

32 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Those of faith do great work because of it. Around I started my Faith Foundation precisely to create 40% of health care in Africa is delivered by faith- greater understanding between the faiths. My based organizations. Muslim, Hindu, and Jewish reasoning is simple. Those advocating extremism in relief groups are active the world over in combating the name of religion are active, well resourced, poverty and disease. In any developed nation, you and—whatever the reactionary nature of their will find selfless care being provided to the thinking—brilliant at using modern communication disabled, the dying, the destitute, and the and technology. We estimate that literally billions disadvantaged, by people acting under the impulse of dollars every year are devoted to promoting this of their faith. Common to all great religions is love view of religion. of neighbors and human equality before God. So my Foundation has a university program—now Unfortunately, compassion is not the only context underway in nine countries—that is designed to in which religion motivates people. It can also take religion out of the sole preserve of divinity promote extremism, even terrorism. This is where schools and start analyzing its role in the world faith becomes a badge of identity in opposition to today. We have another program—in 15 countries, those who do not share it, a kind of spiritual with others set to join—that links high school nationalism that regards those who do not agree— students across the world through interactive even those within a faith who live a different view technology to discuss their faith and what it means of it—as unbelievers, infidels, and thus enemies. to them. And we have an action program through which young people work with those of another To a degree, this has always been so. What has faith to raise awareness of the Millennium changed is the pressure of globalization, which is Development Goals, the United Nations-led pushing the world’s peoples ever closer together as program to combat world poverty. technology advances and shrinks the world. Growing up 50 years ago, children might rarely We are just one organization. There are others meet someone of a different cultural or faith starting. But governments should start to take this background. Today, when I stand in my ten-year-old far more seriously. The Alliance of Civilizations, son’s playground or look at his friends at his begun by Spain and Turkey, is one example. The birthday party, I find myriad different languages, King of Saudi Arabia has also shown great faiths, and colors. leadership in this sphere. Yet this is not just about bringing high-level people together. It has to be Personally, I rejoice in this. But such a world taken down into the grassroots of nations, requires that mutual respect replace mutual especially into the media of their young people. suspicion. Such a world upends traditions and challenges old thinking, forcing us to choose Finally, religious leaders must accept a new consciously to embrace it. Or not. responsibility: to stand up firmly and resolutely for respecting those of faiths different from their own. And there is the rub: for some, this force is a threat. Aggressive secularists and extremists feed off each It menaces deeply conservative societies. And, for other. Together, they do constitute a real challenge those for whom religion matters, globalization can to people of faith. We must demonstrate the loving sometimes be accompanied by an aggressive nature of true faith; otherwise, religion will be secularism or hedonism that makes many uneasy. defined by a battle in which extremists seize control of faith communities and secularists claim So we must make sense of how the world of faith that such attitudes are intrinsic to religion. interacts with the compulsive process of globalization. Yet it is extraordinary how little This would be a tragedy. For, above all, it is in this political time or energy we devote to doing so. era of globalization that faith can represent reason Most of the conflicts in today’s world have a and progress. Religion isn’t dying; nor should it. religious dimension. Extremism based on a The world needs faith. perversion of Islam shows no sign of abating; indeed, it will not abate until it is taken on Tony Blair religiously, as well as by security measures. Tony Blair is a former Prime Minister of the This extremism is, slowly but surely, producing its United Kingdom. own reaction, as we see from Islamaphobic parties’ electoral gains in Europe, and statements by Copyright: Project Syndicate, 2010. European leaders that multiculturalism has failed. Source: www.project-syndicate.org

Of course, throughout time, religion has often been part of a political conflict. But that doesn’t mean that religion should be discounted. On the contrary, it requires a special focus. I see this very plainly spending so much time in Jerusalem, where—East and West—there is an emphatic increase in religiosity.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 33 34 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 measures. He thought that, such drugless therapy would be beneficial for a developing country like India, where most of the people live in villages and Gandhian they do not have access to doctors and hospitals. He wrote about his experiments in his own publication “Indian opinion” under the title “vGuide to health” and some articles on nature cure, use of Approach five elements and its effects. Those articles were written during the year 1906. When Gandhiji returned to India, those compiled articles were published while he was confined in Aga Khan Palace in 1942. The book is known as “Key to towards Health”. It is translated in different Indian and European languages. The book became popular because Gandhiji wrote with a novel idea somewhat different from the ways adopted by Health medical practitioners and medical scientists. Gandhiji incorporated education in health and I represent a premier institute of Nature cure in hygiene in his 18-point constructive programmes India. It is known as Nisargopchar Gramsudhar aimed at achieving complete independence by Trust’s Nisargopchar Ashram, (Nature Cure Ashram) truthful and non-violent means. He emphasised on Uruli Kanchan, a small town situated 29 kms away vegetarianism, which is inseparable from from Pune city in Maharashtra State of India. naturopathic way of treatment. He believed in his famous eleven vows namely ‘Non-violence, Truth, Gandhiji came to Pune in December 1945 along Control over Palate (taste), Celibacy, Physical work, with Sardar Patel at Dr. Dinshaw Mehta’s Nature Non-stealing, Non-possession, Fearlessness, Removal cure clinic. He stayed there for 2 months. That of caste barrier, Equality in religion, Swadeshi or self- Nature cure center is now known as National reliance.’ Institute of Naturopathy. Gandhiji was invited to Uruli Kanchan village for establishment of Nature Truth cure center. According to him it is impossible to observe any Mahatma Gandhi established nature cure Ashram basic principles of life without truth. He in March 1946. On 22nd March 1946 he came along emphatically said that, Truth is God. Devotion to with his 200 disciples with a view to propagate the the truth is Justification to the existence of concepts of village sanitation and healthy living. He mankind. There should be Truth in speech, thought then decided to establish a nature cure center, and action. which would be useful for poor and rich alike. He Truth in speech, thoughts and action depends strongly believed that, there should not be any upon how one uses his senses. Gandhiji’s model of discrimination for health care provision in the 3 monkeys is famous in India. He always used to society. During those days India was struggling for say that, Independence while Gandhiji was leading a movement for equal justice and rights for non- - Do not see Evil white community consisting mostly of Africans and - Do not listen evil words Indians in South Africa. - Do not speak bad words While Gandhiji was practicing law in South Africa Indian philosophy based on Vedic scriptures says he was suffering from digestive complaints. He that, there should be balance between 5 motor used to take some herbal medicine. He thought organs and 5 sense organs. Our mental poise that, every time taking some medicine for depends upon what we perceive thro’ our sense improving digestion and clearing bowels is not a organs since childhood. Stimulating scene, proper way of treatment. He therefore thought that, literature will have adverse effect on our mind. If there must be something wrong with the diagnosis we utter bad words the listener gets disturbed, his and management of his problem. He was taking emotions get negative impact. One who quarrels, some medicines but they were ineffective. He utters bad words also get disturbed. Thus mind thought that, what was the use of such therapy plays a dual function. Soothing affectionate words when every day one has to depend on a doctor and will create joy. Worshiping God, Chanting prayers, a chemist. One of his friends from the vegetarian Observing Natures beauty, fruits, vegetable, society gave him a book written by Adolf Just titled colourful flowers, butter flies, mountains, streams “Return to the Nature”. He studied that book and which we observe and experience bring joy. We tried simple measures like dietary reform, mud perceive qualities of substances thro’ senses, we application over abdomen, use of wet compresses get knowledge about a “substance” but substance etc. He experienced relief by these simple

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 35 doesn’t have any sense or knowledge. The truth Satva (Good quality) vegetarian food in the form of perceived thro’ sense was, is and will be there i.e. fruits, dry fruits, vegetables are essential to “Omnipresent”. That is the truth of the nature. develop control over urges. It is possible to observe celibacy during marital life. There is This truth manifests as knowledge through our difference between animal instinct (passion) and senses. Substances are perishable but the eternal human intellectual awareness. Mating in animals truth and knowledge is not. Therefore right kind of except few species is not frequent. It is only for the perception thro’ motor and sense organs is procreation. Ayurveda and Naturopathy believe essential for the knowledge of space, (Ether), air, that, the vital fluid, which has capacity to fire, water and earth. Moderation in hearing, touch, procreate, has to be conserved. If it is wasted due vision, taste and smell, speech, thoughts, action, is to over indulgence it has delitarious effect on the necessary for balance of these elements in the body and mind. Celibacy doesn’t have reference human body. Physical and mental health depends only for seminal ejaculation, but it has a wider upon good quality of perception thro’ sensory and meaning of control over 5 sense organs, 5 motor motor organs. organs and the 11th sensory and motor function of mind. Therefore moderation in all activities is The balance is not possible without devotion. necessary for celibacy during married life. Health depends upon how one observes the laws of nature. If one is aware and practices self-discipline One who attains control over urges alone can reach and good impression since childhood (Sanskara) the stage of “Samadhi i.e. awareness of self”. It is then only health can be maintained. Any deviation then that, the liberation of soul becomes possible. from the laws of nature which are omnipresent, will Touch, gesture word and thought of indecent cause ill health. Since the evolution of mother earth perception is breach of this principle of chastity. these laws are undisturbed and are going on since ages. If we do not behave physically, morally, (Brahmacharya) means a behavioral pattern spiritually in accordance with the laws of health, adopted in the search of truth. 20th and 21st we are untruthful to this wonderful divine human Century are witnessing the ill effect of over existence, which the GOD created, and then we indulgence in sensory and motor organs which has become prey to diseases at physical and resulted in outbreak of HIV, AIDS, high prevalence psychological level. of psychosomatic diseases, diseases of locomotor system respiratory problems, depression and Non violence - Love - (Ahinsa) stress, higher incidences of theft, robbery, disturbed relationship. Only way to self-realization or heavenly truth is by way of observing non-violence at physical level in Control over the Palate and Taste (Aswad) speech and at mental level. Nature has bestowed love while creating life in the form of animals and All natural food stuffs are tolerable since birth. plants. Killing, destroying animals, plants, polluting Infants and babies do not overfeed. All medical earth, water, environment by greed, jealousy, pathies agree that, most of the problems arise due hatred, urge for possession has created imbalance to modified diet, over eating processed food. in physical level at large. Violent stimulating Gandhi gave importance to moderation in eating thoughts arise because of stimulating diet and urge habits instead of “What and how much to eat to possess which (superiority over animals, plants) thought”. He said over eating is a universal crime; it disturbs our internal environment. Not looking is a crime against society and sin against our own after self, injuring self with intoxicating agents such body. He was of the opinion that, over eating and as tobacco, alcohol, stimulating spicy food etc. indulgence in any bad habits like lying, stealing, disturbs the digestion and assimilation, which is indecent behavior is immoral. the basic cause of many diseases. Indulgence over these intoxicating substances has adverse effect on Gandhiji was a member of vegetarian society while the thinking process as well which in turn leads to he was in England and South Africa. He provocative behavior and the individual is caught experimented on dietetics with reference to the in the vicious circle. literature available in modern medicine. He strongly condemns eating meat as other eminent Therefore Gandhiji (and eminent naturopaths) naturopaths believe. Naturopaths and Gandhiji also advocated vegetarian diet which nature has had opinion that milk is not essential for health. created for the herbivorous human being. All Once in 1917 Gandhi became very sick and could vegetables, fruits, cereals are non-stimulating and not recuperate from illness. He was reluctant to have positive effect on health and mind. take milk. Somebody suggested use of goat milk. On the request of his wife he started consuming milk Celibacy (Bramhacharya) and fruits and he recovered very fast. In certain conditions and in country like India where people Gandhiji was observing celibacy since 1906. Indian observe religious fasting, milk can be combined philosophers, sages and saints are believers in with fruits. Fundamental principle of Naturopathy celibacy. To achieve control over natural urges one believes that, we should not disturb what nature must be truthful and non violent to self and nature.

36 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 has given. Sweets, chocolates, Sugars, excess Fasting condiments are bad for health. Eminent naturopaths advocate fasting on water, Nature has created vegetables, fruits with unique Juices and fruits for elimination of toxins. Gandhiji taste and colors. Each has unique taste, which is observed fast in South Africa as well as during agreeable to most of the animals, birds, and freedom and independence movement in India. One insects. Human beings are in the habit of modifying experiences changes at physical and spiritual level. taste of natural substances e.g. Sugar cane is Short fasts of one to five days duration are effective modified to sugar; wheat modified to white flour, in acute diseases as well as in chronic diseases. biscuits, cookies, and fruits to Jams and Jellies. All Long fasts must be done in some nature cure modifications increase the taste and we lose center under observation. Fasting has miraculous control over palate, overeating follows, which effect in chronic diseases. After fasting one should ultimately results in to ill health. come back to normal diet in a stepwise manner.

Habit of eating tasty food increases the desire to Non Stealing (Asteya) eat more. Habits once formed are difficult to shed. In naturopathy there is a concept of “No breakfast”. Not to lift or carry the thing which do not belong Depending upon the age one should have two to to you. three meals a day. It is our experience that after the • If one doesn’t need specific thing, to purchase a age of 60, 2 meals a day are sufficient. Breakfast thing without necessity is stealing. Mentioning should consist of fruits, Juices and milk. In thoughts from the literature of others without respiratory and digestive disorders, skin diseases proper mention is theft. and rheumatoid arthritis and heart diseases milk • Does not only mean stealing things, real meaning should be best avoided. is give service to the community with minimum expectations. Gandhi looked at this minutely and According to Gandhiji truth is not possible without deeply. non-violence, chastity (Bramhcharya) is not • This is an important aspect for individual as well as possible without control over senses. He himself for the health care providers. Great Indian sages of experienced the effect of natural food for Ayurveda - Charaka, Sushruta, Hippocrates the controlling sexual and other urges. Food he advised father of modern medicine and Naturopathy should be taken like medicine. One cannot consume considered medical profession as a noble profession. more fruits and vegetables, cereals in their natural Proper advice regarding disease prevention, form. Self-restraint over taste once achieved is treatment from the doctors and to follow the helpful in controlling passion and desire. instructions is essential for cure and health.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 37 Possessing unnecessary foodstuff, clothing and ailment. WHO has also accepted the dimensions of things of use is harmful to the society. God never spiritual health. Existence of the super power (God) stores for tomorrow. He never creates what is has no connection with superstition. It is the strictly not needed for the moment. Everybody will nature’s Supreme law. The same law, which keeps us live with contentment with essential needs for the away from diseases, is applied to the cure. Gandhiji individual for the self and for the society. There said that, the prayer is only for good end and not would not be any gap between rich and the poor. for an evil end. It brings purity of heart. Purity of heart will never allow self-indulgence. Nature’s law Physical Activity - Exercises is one. To observe her laws is the law of worship. A man who becomes one with the law does not stand Regular exercises, yoga is essential for maintaining in need of vocal recitation of his name. vigor and stamina. Efficiency of Respiratory system, heart and circulatory system, muscles and joints To achieve perfect health, morning and evening increases to optimum level. It is the use of air prayer is a part of treatment and occupies an element, which keeps the body in alert state. Gandhiji important place in daily regime in all institutes advocates brisk walking in fields, open air for 4 to 10 established by Gandhiji. kms as the best exercise. Exercise acts as a great stress reliever. Long walks with rhythmic breathing, Gandhiji said, “Nature Cure treatment means that morning and evening has tranquilising effect. treatment which befits man”. By “man” meant not only man as an animal, but as a creature possessing Doing self-work, work in the house like sweeping, his body, both mind and soul for such a being cleaning, gardening, physical work on the farm is prayer is the truest Nature cure, it is an unfailing all-important. Gandhiji promoted home industry for remedy. Immortality is the attribute of the soul, spinning cotton and weaving clothes, pot making, which is imperishable. It is man’s duty to try to rope making, leather goods and other traditional express its purity. craftsmanship for self-reliance at village level. Adults must do all personal work themselves and “Therefore a person filled with the presence of God serve children, disabled and the aged. Motor and who has attained the state of dispassion can organs—limbs are meant for work and movement— live a long life. When a man comes to that complete which is possible because of energy provided by living faith in the unseen power and becomes free the energy of propulsion i.e. air. If one doesn’t use from passion, the body undergoes internal the energy then the (earth) will dominate and transformation. It needs constant practice then which will lead to obesity (Globesity) causing most only Gods’ grace descends upon us.” of the diseases of twenty first century. Man can be saved from diseases and burden of ill health of the Gandhiji’s concept of natural positive health at the society for which most of the countries are physical, psychological level goes beyond the WHO spending huge amount on medicines of modern definition of health. His concepts go up to subtle era. Regular exercises, Yoga and moderation in level of human existence. feeding habits will prevent huge expenses. Five Elements Equality Human body is composed of the five natural On social as well as, religious ground equality is elements. Man can live without food and water for important for social health. No one can deny some days, but life is not possible without Space freedom to persons following certain religion. (Akash) and Air (Pranic energy) for more than few Inequality on social, economic aspects has created minutes. God has therefore made air universally health problems (stress) throughout the world. available. One should sleep in open space whenever the atmosphere is comfortable. The All faiths constitute a revelation of “Truth”, but all place should be clean. Activities of mind are are imperfect and liable to error. All religions are dependent upon Space and positive pranic energy. based on the principal faith in The Creator—God For rational thinking Space between thoughts and the Almighty. Root of the religion is like a root of expression is needed. Space is of utmost the tree with many branches. importance for the existence of other four elements as well as for the life on the earth. Spiritual health is dependent on this faith, which is acceptance of the existence of innumerable bodies Out of other three elements of the “Sunlight”, the with a common universal existence of eternal “Soul”. source of energy for animals and plants is essential. This is the energy of conversion which is used for Prayer (Ramanama) conversion of food into body constituents, is possible by metabolic processes (Enzymes—Fire Gandhiji presented Ramanama to the village folk as (Agni). Growth of plants and subsequently animals a Natural therapy No. 1 for the cure of the bodily is dependent on energy of Sun, which gives variety ailments. All religions believe that, God is the of colours to food grains, vegetables and fruits, reliever of peoples’ distress. The promise is which make them attractive and more assimilable. universal. It is not restricted to particular type of

38 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 The fourth element “water” came into existence and moral values are being conducted. To rich the during the process of evolution. Water is essential remote rural areas we have conducted training for internal and external purification of the body. programmes for the traditional healers, women’s Hydrotherapy is used widely for treatment of groups, school children, teachers and outdoor chronic ailments. camps for the organized groups.

Mother earth supports all vegetations and animal This article is prepared in memory of Mahatma life. Use of clay or mud is effective in chronic skin Gandhi—founder of our institute on the occasion diseases, digestive disorders, Hypertension. It has of his 136th birth anniversy on 2nd Oct. 2005. a cooling and detoxifying effect.

Gandhiji wrote about importance of five natural elements for maintaining health and in disease conditions. The concepts of eastern naturopathy differ from concepts of western naturopathy. Gandhiji has given importance to all five elements where as western naturopaths take in to consideration only 4 elements. Scarcely the importance is given to psychological, moral and spiritual well being of individual and society. Only Dr. Lindlhar has given thought to psychological aspect of the health.

Gandhiji was not exclusively preacher of Naturopathy, but he practiced naturopathy and treated his family members. His son Manilal was suffering from high fever. He treated him with fasting, juices and wet sheet packs. His wife Kasturba suffered from severe bleeding problems, he treated her with same measures and vegetarian diet, even when doctors advised to give her mutton soup. Convinced with Gandhiji’s experiments she followed his advice and recovered from debilitating illness.

During his stay at Uruli Kanchan Ashram Gandhiji treated many patients with dietary advice, mud Dr. Ravindra Vasant Nisal, Programme Director, poultice and water therapy. His prescription Nisargopchar Ashram. Dr. Nisal, born on October advocates prayer and recitation of ‘Ramnama— 5, 1950, is a graduate of Ayurvedic & Modern The God’. Medicine is in association with Nisargopchar Ashram since 1980. He has 25 years experience in Our Institutes’ approach towards health is based general medicine and has treated thousands of upon Gandhiji’s vision. Gandhiji was of the opinion needy patients in adverse rural conditions. As a that, the treatment should be very simple. Natural medical advisor to Nisargopchar Ashram, he has elements like Sun, Air, Earth; water and food brought changes at the Ashram. He has delivered available locally, physical labour (Shram) should be radio talks on A.I.R. Pune on more than 20 topics used for treatment of acute and chronic diseases. It related to Naturopathy and health apart from should be affordable to poor as well as available to being part of many national and international all others. Since the inception of our institute we conferences. He was invited to talk on social have adopted simple measures. Without any health Gandhian approach at Sao Paulo university mechanisation the large numbers of patients of Brazil in Oct 2005. He has to his credit many coming from different states and abroad get a very reputed publications in reputed journals. good response for various psychosomatic problems. Our main emphasis is aimed at purification at the physical as well as spiritual level. The treatment consist of, advice regarding the proper eliminative diet and various supportive treatments. Nearly 70% beds are available for the middle-income group. People belonging to lower economic status get subsidised or free treatment.

The main objective of the nature cure and Gandhiji was also of the opinion that, a natural hygienist’s role is to educate the community. In this direction daily discourses on naturopathy, dietetics, yoga

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 39 Guru Gobind Singh

The tenth and the last Guru or Prophet-teacher of was barely nine years of age when a sudden turn the Sikh faith, was born as Gobind Rai Sodhi on 22 came in his life as well as in the life of entire Sikh December 1666 at Patna, in Bihar. His father, Guru community, he was destined to lead. Early in 1675, Tegh Bahadur, the Ninth Guru, was then travelling a group of Kashmiri Brahmans, driven to across Bengal and Assam. Returning to Patna in desperation by the religious fanaticism of the 1670, he directed his family to return to Punjab. On Mughal General Iftikar Khan, visited Anandpur to the site of the house at Patna in which Gobind Rai seek Guru Tegh Bahadur’s intercession. As the was born and where he spent his early childhood Guru sat reflecting what to do, young Gobind Rai, now stands a sacred shrine, Takht Sri Harimandar arriving there in company with his playmates, Sahib, one of the five most honoured seats of asked “Why he looked so preoccupied”. The father religious authority Takht (throne) for the Sikhs. replied, “Grave are the burdens the earth bears. Gobind Rai was escorted to Anandpur (then known She will be redeemed only if a truly worthy person as Chakk Nanaki) at the foothills of the Sivaliks comes forward to lay down his head. Distress will where he reached in March 1672. then be expunged and happiness ushered in.” “None could be worthier than yourself to make Early Life such a sacrifice,” remarked Gobind Rai in his innocent manner. Guru Tegh Bahadur soon His early education included reading and writing of afterwards proceedcd to the imperial capital, Delhi, Punjabi, Braj, Sanskrit and Persian languages. He and courted death on 11 November 1675.

40 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 As Guru commander, Alif Khan, at Nadaun on the left bank of the Beas, about 30 km southeast of Kangra, on 20 Guru Gobind Singh was formally installed Guru on March 1691. Describing the battle in stirring verse in 11th Nov, 1675. In the midst of his engagement with Bachitra Natak, he said that Alif Khan fled in utter the concerns of the community, he gave attention disarray “without being able to give any attention to to the mastery of physical skills and literary his camp.” Among several other skirmishes that accomplishment. He had grown into an energetic occurred was the Hussain battle (20 February 1696) youth. He had a natural genius for poetic fought against Husain Khan, an imperial general, composition and his early years were assiduously which resulted in a decisive victory for the Sikhs. given to this pursuit. The Var Sri Bhagauti Ji Ki, Following the appointment in 1694 of the liberal popularly called Chandi di Var written in 1684, was Prince Muazzam (later Emperor Bahadur Shah) as his first composition. The poem depicted the Viceroy of north-western region including Punjab, legendary contest between the gods and the there was however a brief respite from pressure demons as described in the Markandeya Purana. from the ruling authority. The choice of a warlike theme for this and a number of his later compositions such as the two The Khalsa Chandi Charitras, mostly in Braj, was made to infuse martial spirit among his followers to prepare In 1698, Guru Gobind Singh issued directions to them to stand up against injustice and tyranny. Sikh sangats or communities in different parts of India not to acknowledge masands, the local Poems and the Sword Ministers, against whom he had heard complaints. Sikhs, he instructed, should come to Anandpur Much of Guru Gobind Singh’s creative literary work straight without any intermediaries and bring their was done at Paonta, he had founded on the banks offerings personally. The Guru thus established of the River Yamuna and to which site he had direct relationship with his Sikhs and addressed temporarily shifted in April 1685. Poetry as such them as his Khalsa, Persian term used for crown- was, however, not his aim. For him it was a means lands as distinguished from feudal chiefs. of revealing the divine principle and concretizing a personal vision of the Supreme Being that had been The institution of the Khalsa was given concrete vouchsafed to him. His Japu and the composition form on 30 March 1699 when Sikhs had gathered at known as Akal Ustati are in this tenor. Through his Anandpur in large numbers for the annual festival poetry he preached love and equality and a strictly of Baisakhi. Guru Gobind Singh appeared before the ethical and moral code of conduct. He preached assembly dramatically on that day with a naked the worship of the One Supreme Being, deprecating sword in hand and spoke: “Is there present a true idolatry and superstitious beliefs and observances. Sikh who would offer his head to the Guru as a The glorification of the sword itself which he sacrifice?” The words numbed the audience who eulogized as Bhaguati was to secure fulfilment of looked on in awed silence. God’s justice. The sword was never meant as a symbol of aggression, and it was never to be used The Guru repeated the call. At the third call Daya for self-aggrandizement. It was the emblem of Ram, a Sobti Khatri of Lahore, arose and humbly manliness and self-respect and was to be used only walked behind the Guru to a tent nearby. The Guru in self-defence, as a last resort. For Guru Gobind returned with his sword dripping blood, and asked Singh said in a Persian couplet in his Zafarnamah: for another head. At this Daram Das, a Jatt from Hastinapur, came forward and was taken inside the When all other means have failed, enclosure. Guru Gobind Singh made three more It is but lawful to take to the sword. calls. Muhkam Chand, a washerman from Dvarka, Himmat, a water-carrier from Jagannathpur, and Paonta Sahib Chand, a barber from Bidar (Karnataka) responded one after another and advanced to offer During his stay at Paonta, Guru Gobind Singh availed their heads. himself of his spare time to practise different forms of manly exercises, such as riding, swimming and Panj Piare archery. His increasing influence among the people and the martial exercises of his men excited the All the five were led back from the tent dressed alike jealousy of the neighbouring Rajput hill rulers who in saffron-coloured raiment topped over with neatly led by Raja Fateh Chand of Garhwal collected a host tied turbans similarly dyed, with swords dangling to attack him. But they were worsted in an action at by their sides. Guru Gobind Singh then introduced Bhangani, about 10 km northeast of Paonta, on 18 Khande Di Pahul, i.e. initiation by sweetened water September 1688. Soon thereafter Guru Gobind Singh churned with a double-edged broadsword left Paonta and returned to Anandpur which he (Khanda). Those five Sikhs were the first to be fortified in view of the continuing hostility of the initiated. Guru Gobind Singh called them Panj Piare, Rajput chiefs as well as of the repressive policy of the five devoted spirits beloved of the Guru. These the imperial government at Delhi. The Guru and his five, formed the nucleus of the self-abnegating, Sikhs were involved in a battle with a Mughal martial and casteless fellowship of the Khalsa.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 41 All of them surnamed Singh, meaning lion, were Singh with three of his Sikhs escaped into the required to wear in future the five symbols of the wilderness of the Malva, two of his Muslim Khalsa, all beginning with the letter K-the kesh or devotees, Gani Khan and Nabi Khan, helping him at long hair and beard, Kangha, a comb in the kesh to great personal risk. keep it tidy as against the recluses who kept it matted in token of their having renounced the Guru Gobind Singh’s two younger sons, Zorawar world, Kara, a steel bracelet, Kachch, short Singh and Fateh Singh and his mother, Mata Gujari, breeches, and Kirpan, a sword. They were enjoined were after the evacuation of Anandpur betrayed by to succour the helpless and fight the oppressor, to their old servant and escort, Gangu, to the faujdar have faith in one God and to consider all human of Sirhind, who had the young children executed on beings equal, irrespective of caste and creed. 13 December 1705. Their grandmother died the same day. Befriended by another Muslim admirer, Guru Gobind Singh then himself received initiatory Rai Kalha of Raikot, Guru Gobind Singh reached rites from five disciples, now invested with Dina in the heart of the Malva. There he enlisted a authority as Khalsa, and had his name changed few hundred warriors of the Brar clan, and also from Gobind Rai to Gobind Singh. “Hail,” as the composed his famous letter, Zafarnamah or the poet subsequently sang, “Gobind Singh who is Epistle of Victory, in Persian verse, addressed to himself Master as well as disciple.” Further Emperor Aurangzeb. injunctions were laid down for the Sikhs. They must never cut or trim their hair and beards, nor smoke The letter was a severe indictment of the Emperor tobacco. A Sikh must not have relationship outside and his commanders who had perjured their oath the marital bond, nor eat the flesh of an animal and treacherously attacked him once he was killed slowly. outside the safety of his fortification at Anandpur. It emphatically reiterated the sovereignty of morality The Rajput Chiefs in the affairs of State as much as in the conduct of human beings and held the means as important as These developments alarmed the caste ridden the end. Two of the Sikhs, Daya Singh and Daram Rajput chiefs of the Sivalik hills. They rallied under Singh, were despatched with the Zafarnamah to the leadership of the Raja of Bilaspur, in whose Ahmadnagar in the South to deliver it to territory laid Anandpur, to forcibly evict Guru Aurangzeb, then in camp in that town. Gobind Singh from his hilly citadel. Their repeated expeditions during 1700-04 however proved Mai Bhago abortive. They at last petitioned Emperor Aurangzeb for help. In concert with contingents sent under From Dina, Guru Gobind Singh continued his imperial orders by the governor of Lahore and those westward march until, finding the host close upon of the faujdar of Sirhind, they marched upon his heels, he took position astride the water pool of Anandpur and laid a siege to the fort in May 1705. Khidrana to make a last-ditch stand. The fighting on 29 December 1705 was hard and desperate. In spite Over the months, the Guru and his Sikhs firmly of their overwhelming numbers, the Mughal troops withstood their successive assaults despite dire failed to capture the Guru and had to retire in scarcity of food resulting from the prolonged defeat. The most valorous part in this battle was blockade. While the besieged were reduced to played by a group of 40 Sikhs who had deserted the desperate straits, the besiegers too were chagrined Guru at Anandpur during the long siege, but who, at the tenacity with which the Sikhs held out. At chided by their womenfolk at home, had come back this stagy the besiegers offered, on solemn oaths of under the leadership of a brave and devoted Quran, safe exit to the Sikhs if they quit Anandpur. woman, Mai Bhago, to redeem themselves. They had fallen fighting desperately to check the enemy’s At last, the town was evacuated during the night of 5- advance towards the Guru’s position. The Guru 6 December 1705. But soon, as the Guru and his Sikhs blessed the 40 dead as 40 Mukte, i.e. the 40 Saved came out, the hill monarchs and their Mughal allies Ones. The site is now marked by a sacred shrine set upon them in full fury. In the ensuing confusion and tank and the town which has grown around many Sikhs were killed and all of the Guru’s baggage, them is called Muktsar, the Pool of liberations. including most of the precious manuscripts, was lost. The Guru himself was able to make his way to After spending some time in the Lakkhi Jungle Chamkaur, 40 km southwest of Anandpur, with barely country, Guru Gobind Singh arrived at Talvandi Sabo, 40 Sikhs and his two elder sons. now called Damdama Sahib, on 20 January 1706. During his stay there of over nine months, a number The Sons of Sikhs rejoined him. He prepared a fresh recension of Sikh Scripture, the Guru Granth Sahib, with the There the imperial army, following closely on his celebrated scholar, Bhai Mani Singh, as his heels, caught up with him. His two sons, Ajit Singh amanuensis. From the number of scholars who had and Jujhar Singh and all but five of the Sikhs fell in rallied round Guru Gobind Singh and from the the action that took place on 7 December 1705. The literary activity initiated, the place came to be known five surviving Sikhs bade the Guru to save himself as the Guru’s Kashi or seat of learning like Varanasi. in order to reconsolidate the Khalsa. Guru Gobind

42 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Aurungzeb Before he could deal another blow, Guru Gobind Singh struck him down with his sword, while his The epistle Zafarnamah sent by Guru Gobind Singh fleeing companion fell under the swords of Sikhs from Dina seems to have touched the heart of who had rushed in on hearing the noise. As the Emperor Aurungzeb. He forthwith invited him for a news reached Bahadur Shah’s camp, he sent expert meeting. According to Ahkam-i-Alamgiri, the surgeons, including an Englishman, Cole by name, Emperor had a letter written to the Deputy to attend on the Guru. The wound was stitched and Governor of Lahore, Mun’im Khan, to conciliate the appeared to have healed quickly but, as the Guru Guru and make the required arrangements for his one day applied strength to pull a stiff bow, it broke journey to the Deccan. Guru Gobind Singh had, out again and bled profusely. This weakened the however, already left for the South on 30 October Guru beyond cure and he passed away on Kattak 7 1706. He was in the neighbourhood of Baghor, in October 1708. Rajasthan, when the news arrived of the death of the Emperor at Ahmadnagar on 20 February 1707. Bahadur Shah “Takht Sri The Guru there upon decided to return to the Punjab, via Shahjahanabad (Delhi). That was the Harimandar Sahib time when the sons of the deceased Emperor were preparing to contest succession. Guru Gobind Singh is one of the five most despatched for the help of the eldest claimant, the liberal Prince Muazzam, a token contingent of Sikhs honoured seats of which took part in the battle of Jajau (8 June 1707), decisively won by the Prince who ascended the religious authority throne with the title of Bahadur Shah. The new Emperor invited Guru Gobind Singh for a meeting Takht (throne) for which took place at Agra on 23 July 1707. the Sikhs.” Emperor Bahadur Shah had at this time to move against the Kachhvaha Rajputs of Amber (Jaipur) and then to the Deccan where his youngest brother, Before the end came, Guru Gobind Singh had asked Kam Baksh, had raised the standard of revolt. The for the Sacred Volume to be brought forth. Daya Guru accompanied him and, as says Tarkh-i- Singh brought Sri Granth Sahib. The Guru placed Bahadur Shahi, he addressed assemblies of people before it five pice and a coconut and bowed his on the way preaching the word of Guru Nanak. The head before it. He said to the sangat, “It is my two camps crossed the River Tapti between 11 and commandment: Own Sri Granthji in my place. He 14 June 1708 and the Ban-Ganga on 14 August, who so acknowledges it will obtain his reward. The arriving at Nanded, on the Godavari, towards the Guru will rescue him. Know this as the truth”. end of August. Guru Gobind Singh passed on the succession with While Bahadur Shah proceeded further South, Guru due ceremony to the Holy Book, the Guru Granth Gobind Singh decided to stay awhile at Nanded. Sahib, ending the line of personal Gurus. “The Here he met a Bairagi recluse, Madho Das, whom Guru’s spirit,” he said, “will henceforth be in the he converted a Sikh administering to him Khande Granth and the Khalsa. Where the Granth is with Di Pahul, renaming him Gurbakhsh Singh (Banda any five Sikhs representing the Khalsa, there will Singh). Guru Gobind Singh gave Banda Singh five the Guru be.” The Word enshrined in the Holy Book arrows from his own quiver and an escort, was always revered by the Gurus as well as by their including five of his chosen Sikhs, and directed him disciples as of Divine origin. The Guru was the to go to the Punjab and carry on the campaign revealer of the Word. One day the Word was to take against the tyranny of the provincial overlords. the place of the Guru. The inevitable came to pass when Guru Gobind Singh declared the Guru Granth The End Sahib as his successor. It was only through the Nawab Wazir Khan of Sirhind had felt concerned at Word that the Guruship could be made everlasting. the Emperor’s conciliatory treatment of Guru The Word as contained in the Guru Granth Sahib Gobind Singh. Their marching together to the South was henceforth, and for all time to come to be the made him jealous, and he charged two of his trusted Guru for the Sikhs. men with murdering the Guru before his increasing Source: www.sgpc.net friendship with the Emperor resulted in any harm to him. These two pathans Jamshed Khan and Wasil Beg pursued the Guru secretly and overtook him at Nanded, where one of them stabbed the Guru in the left side below the heart as he lay one evening in his chamber resting after the Rahras prayer.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 43 Republic Day

The Republic of India is a large South Asian country January 26 every year. The country became a rich in ethnic diversity, with over one billion people sovereign democratic republic with a written speaking hundreds of languages. Politically it is the constitution and an elected parliament. world’s largest liberal democracy. At the time of independence, although India was Origin of India under British rule, there were 565 Princely States, big and small, ruled by powerful sovereigns who The official name India is derived from Sindhu, the were protected by treaties of alliance with the historic local appellation for the river Indus and is British Crown. Without bringing them together, the the most internationally recognisable of the fundamental unity of the country was not possible. country. The Constitution of India and general This unification was accomplished by Sardar usage also recognises Bharat as the other official Vallabhbhai Patel, whose statesmanship helped to name of equal status. Bharat comes from the name integrate the country into one nation. In a little less of an ancient Hindu king and means seeker of than 2 years, all the princely States became a part knowledge. The third name is Hindustan, meaning of the Republic of India. land of the Hindus (where Hindu refers to those who dwell to the right of the Indus/Sindhu river) It was on this date in 1927 that the Indian National used from the Mughal times onwards. Congress (INC), then fighting its non-violent war for freedom, voted for complete independence as India, with 5000 year old History is a civilization against ‘dominion status’. Members of the INC took united by its diversity, richness of culture, the glory the pledge to work towards a ‘sovereign of past, the turbulences and triumphs, the democratic republic’ of India. landmarks of each era, the achievements of a change, and the legacy of a regime. India is an Indian Constitution amazing discovery and its history is a unique tale of the past. On August 15th, 1947, India was finally India even after getting independence from the granted independence from British rule and British Rule did not have its own constitution and became a secular republic. wholly depended on the modified colonial Government of India Act, 1935. Also, India was 26 January headed by King George VI, until the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1950. Prior to this, the seeds Republic Day is one of the greatest national of a republican nation were sown by Pt. Jawaharlal celebrations observed throughout the country on Nehru in the Lahore session at the Indian National

44 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Congress at the midnight of 31st December, 1929–st two minute silence is observed in their memory January, 1930. The tri-color flag was unfurled by the and the Prime Minister moves ahead to the main nationalists present who took a pledge to celebrate dais at Rajpath. The President joins there along ‘Purna Swaraj’ (complete Independence) Day every with the Chief Guest and other dignitaries. The year on 26th January, while continuing to fight for Chief Guest is usually the Head of State or the establishment of a Sovereign Democratic Government from a foreign nation. The President Republic of India. hoists the flag and soon, the National Anthem is played. This is followed by a 21 gun salute. The independence was achieved in 1947 while the professed pledge was redeemed on 26th January, The parade starts off with the Armed Forces 1950. The Indian Constituent Assembly was called regiments walking past the President. All the three together on 9th December, 1946, where a regiments, the Army, the Navy and the Air Force committee was formed. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar became dress in their best official uniforms and march past the Chairman of the committee, who along with the finely. The Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed other members drafted the Constitution. The Forces, the President takes the salute as the Indian Constitution included 395 Articles and 8 regiment pass by. The parade also includes people Schedules. The Constitution was adopted by the from the armed forces and civilians who have Constituent Assembly on 26th November, 1949. In shown exceptional courage and distinguished the following year on 26th January, 1950, the themselves in various acts of heroism in different Constitution of India came into force and became a situations. The military parade is then followed with ‘sovereign democratic republic’ of India, 894 days a vibrant and colorful parade of regional tableaus. after the withdrawal of British Rule in 1947, which is why, it is said that India achieved its true Cultural and folk dances also form part of the independence on this day. parade where school children sing and dance to patriotic songs. The parade ends by jets and fighter Elections were held and Dr. Rajendra Prasad was planes flying past the parade symbolically saluting elected as the first President of free India. He took the the President. The parade is telecast live on the oath at the Durban Hall in the Government House, national television, allowing the entire nation to which was followed by the Presidential drive along view it. Lastly, the crowd stands up as the National the five-mile route to the Irwin Stadium. He unfurled Anthem is played. However, this is not the end of the National Flag at the stadium. This transition of the Republic Day celebrations. It is, in fact, a three- India into a sovereign democratic republic nation is day extravaganza, where on the 27th January, the indeed a historical event. The two decade long crème of the NCC cadets hold a Prime Minister’s journey, right from the conceptualization of the rally. A wide variety of breath-taking performances dream in 1930 to its actual realization in 1950, is and drills make the highlights. certainly worth a grand celebration. Today, the Indian Constitution is the longest in the world, consisting of All the major government buildings are beautifully 397 articles and 12 schedules, providing a single illuminated with lights every evening from 26th to citizenship for the whole nation. The national holiday 29th January. On the third day after Republic Day, is celebrated with festivities and patriotic fervor that is 29th, ‘Beating the Retreat’ ceremony is across the whole nation. conducted consisting of massed bands marching to the popular tunes. The Drummer’s Call follows Celebrations wherein the drummers give solo performances. Thereafter, the Bugle Call follows which is One of the three national holidays in India, Republic characterized by the band master walking up to the Day is celebrated with great pomp and show President requesting to take the bands away. This throughout the nation each year. Preparations begin marks the end of the closing ceremony of Republic almost a month before for the actual day. The day is Day. At 6 pm, the buglers sound the retreat and the honored with great joy, pride and vigor across the National Flag is lowered. With this, the Republic country as India was also declared a sovereign, Day celebrations are formally ended. democratic and republic state on this very day. The day calls in for grand celebrations, which are The patriotic fervor of the people on this day brings evident from the massive parades, cultural the whole country together even in her essential programs, recitation of patriotic poems and singing diversity. Every part of the country is represented in and playing of patriotic songs throughout. Though occasion, which makes the Republic Day the most every Indian state holds its celebrations, but the popular of all the national holidays of India. capital city of New Delhi witnesses a grand parade at India Gate, near the President’s Palace. Source: http://festivals.iloveindia.com, http://festivals.tajonline.com, Republic Day Parade www.indiabook.com

The Prime Minister lays a floral wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti early in the morning to honor the soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation. A

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 45 India’s Elites in Crisis

New Delhi: For a country with 1.2 billion people, Commons by exploiting a key institutional India is ruled by a surprisingly small elite, which weakness—the existence of “rotten boroughs” that runs everything from the government to large could be bought and sold. companies and even sports bodies. But a series of scandals, some involving billions of dollars, has The Duke of Newcastle alone is said to have now seriously undermined that elite’s standing in controlled seven such boroughs, each with two the eyes of the Indian public. representatives. Meanwhile, large and populous industrial cities like Birmingham and Manchester Almost anyone in a position of power in India, were barely represented. In 1819, a crowd of 60,000 including well-known print and television gathered in Manchester to demand reform, but journalists, is now viewed with suspicion. This is were charged by the cavalry. Fifteen people were occurring at a time when economic growth is killed and many more injured in what is pulling a young and upwardly mobile population remembered as the Peterloo Massacre. into the urban middle class. This new middle class is no longer constrained by the patronage systems Given the recent memory of the violent French of the village, but it also does not enjoy the cozy Revolution, the British elite reluctantly agreed to relationship that links the old middle class with the democratizing reforms. Ultimately, the Reform Act elite. Could this crisis of the elite trigger India’s of 1832 abolished the rotten boroughs and own Tiananmen Square moment? extended the franchise to the new middle class (the working class and women would have to wait). Except in totalitarian regimes, a country’s elite depends on a degree of popular acceptance, which The United States, too, went through a period of is mostly derived from the belief that the elite is robber-baron industrialization in the 1870’s and broadly “fair” in its dealings. Following the recent 1880’s. The greed and corruption of that era were series of scandals, the average Indian does not satirized in 1873 by Mark Twain and Charles Dudley believe this anymore. Warner in their book The Gilded Age: A Tale of Today. The period ended with the depression of Of course, doubts about the ruling elite are not 1893-96, and was followed by the major political unique to India. Almost all countries undergoing a reforms of the Progressive Era. shift from a pre-industrial equilibrium based on patronage to one based on modern institutions and For Britain and the US, the transition in the nature the rule of law have faced such crises of legitimacy. of the governing elite was relatively smooth. But there are many examples where such change was Until the early nineteenth century, for example, sudden and violent—the French and Russian British politics was extraordinarily corrupt. The old Revolutions, for example. In Germany, the old aristocracy not only dominated the House of Lords, Prussian elite successfully managed the country’s but also used its influence to get relatives, friends, industrialization in the late nineteenth century, but and family retainers elected to the House of was discredited by defeat in World War I. Nazism

46 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 filled the ensuing vacuum, and a new equilibrium elite, but one can feel a growing sense of anger would be established only after World War II. among its members.

Similar shifts have been witnessed in Asia. Japan It is impossible to predict when the shift will saw two shifts—the Meiji Restoration of 1868 and happen or what form it will take. Given India’s the period after World War II. South Korea was democratic traditions, it is likely that the change ruled by generals until widespread student protests will be peaceful. One possibility is that it will take led to a democratic transition in 1987. (Many of the place province by province—the previously country’s top businessmen faced prosecution in ungovernable state of Bihar being a prime example. subsequent years.) Indonesia experienced its shift more recently, in 1998. But we might also see an unpredictable turn, with a new political leader or movement suddenly When China confronted this moment during the capturing the popular imagination and sweeping Tiananmen Square protests of 1989, the Communist aside the old arrangements. As we know from Nazi state repressed the students with an iron fist, but Germany and other cases, such movements do not has since maintained a single-minded focus on always lead to a happy outcome. economic growth. Corruption remains a major problem, but the authorities take care to punish Perhaps India’s existing elite will learn from history, the worst excesses in a highly visible way. Still, as purge itself, and then open itself up to new talent. the recent controversy over the Nobel Peace Prize Many investigations have been ordered into the demonstrated, the government remains nervous current corruption scandals. Over the course of about any dissent that challenges the legitimacy of this year, Indians will find out if such efforts are the ruling elite. serious and whether they will lead to reform—or merely to deeper crisis. Even adjusted for purchasing power, India’s middle class today probably totals no more than 70 million Sanjeev Sanyal (far smaller than is generally assumed). But, in the coming decade, today’s established middle class will Sanjeev Sanyal is the author of The Indian be swamped by newcomers working their way up Renaissance: India’s Rise after a Thousand from the country’s slums, small towns, and villages. Years of Decline.

One can see them everywhere—learning English in Copyright: Project Syndicate, 2011 “coaching centers,” working anonymously in the Source: www.project-syndicate.org new malls and call centers, or suddenly famous as sports stars. Never before has India experienced such social mobility. So far, this new group has been too busy climbing the income ladder to express their resentment at the excesses of the

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 47 Ik Onkaar The One God, the Absolute Reality

Traditionally it is always Shri Ganeshji and Mother Om is the essence of the Vedas. The Upanishads Saraswati who are invoked first, because Shri and the Geeta glorify It. With this one sacred Ganesh is Siddhi Dhaataa and Mother Saraswati is syllable all Vedic mangalaacharans are considered Buddhi Dhaatri. Man’s basic needs are these two: done. By remembering and invoking the Lord as siddhi and buddhi. Siddhi refers to all the things and Om, Shri Guru Nanak Dev dutifully maintains the gains that can be achieved in the world, while buddhi Vedic paramparaa or ‘tradition’, for that new refers to all the knowledge there is in the universe. philosophy which disregards age-old wisdom can The hunger for things is of the body while the thirst never bear fruit. for knowledge is of the intellect. Because man is an intelligent being, he is not satisfied with merely We in the present times, with our modern things, he also wants to know and understand education, are led to believe that anything offered everything. Thus we seek fulfillment of our actions as new or “the latest” is to be accepted, and that in the form of results as well as fulfillment of our which is old is to be rejected. In fact, the wisdom of need for knowledge, and accordingly Shri Ganeshji those who are truly wise is “otherwise”. It is that and Mother Saraswati are worshipped before one which is old and has stood the test of time, that embarks on any task or project. path on which many have walked and by which many have successfully reached their goal, which But where do the various deities or devtaas get the wise ones accept. An idea which is new has yet their respective powers from? Is it not from that to be tested. If a person were to go to a doctor and one Ishwara who is the almighty Lord of the the doctor were to tell him that the medicine being universe, Himself the one infinite Reality, the Para- given to him was the latest, and that the patient Brahma Parmaatmaa indicated in the Vedas as Om? should feel honoured, for he was the first person to Indeed, it is from that one Lord alone that all the whom the drug was being administered, would any devtaas get their different powers to bestow intelligent man with all the pride he takes in various benedictions. Therefore Shri Guru Nanak modern science actually accept the honour? directly invokes that one almighty Lord called Om and seeks blessings from the original source, the When new thoughts or ideologies are based upon one powerhouse of the universe. the wisdom of the ancient, they have not only the

48 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 fragrance and freshness of the new but also the Brahmaiva na apraah: And jeeva, or the individual strength and tenacity of the old. Saints never come ego, is that Infinite alone, not something other than into this world to destroy the link with the ancient; It.” The same eternal Truth is what is indicated by rather, they come to fulfill the wisdom of the past. Guru Nanakji in the use of the word Ik. Shri Guru Nanakji did the same. The approach was new, but the knowledge was not. The language was There is only the One, there is nothing other than different, but the essence the same. That. But what is That? It cannot be described in words. Then how are we going to know It? Surely It Shri Guru Nanakji added the word Ik before Om to must have some name or description? indicate that this Om alone is the One. God can be only one. There is neither a Hindu God nor a We can describe a thing if it has some attributes, Muslim God nor a Christian God separate from a some form, qualities or functions: for example, the Jew God. The names of God in various religions are sun is called Amshumaan because it has rays, and a different, but He as such is one. river is called Sarita because it flows. Thus a thing is recognized or known by its attributes. But The word Ik has great depth and meaning on Parmaatmaan has no attributes. How then can we another level: that not only is there just one God and name or describe the Truth? What words can we not many Gods, but also, whatever there is in this use to describe this Truth we call God? There is universe consists in that One alone. There is only only one God, there is none like Him and there is one Reality; the plurality does not exist. All sense of nothing apart from Him. This whole universe has distinction and differentiation is born of ignorance. been created out of Him, so whatever there is in the uni¬verse is Him alone. As such He has no name. To explain it in simple terms, we think ourselves to But if He has to have a name, then all names are His be different and separate from each other, and thus for He alone appears as all the forms around us. all the conflicts of white and black, caste and creed, high and low. And yet, even from the physical All names, or words, are made up of syllables or stand¬point, if we were to observe, think and alphabets. The Rishis indicated the Truth through analyze, are we not all made of the same mud? the one syllable om, which contains the three sounds AAA, UUU and MMM. All other sounds are located The surface colour may be different, the size and within the compass of these three basic sounds. shape may differ, but the essence, the material, the mud, is the same. Burnt on a pyre or buried under the ground what remains is the same dust. Yes, if it is a fat man the quantity is a little more, that is all. “Man’s basic needs are In reality there are no distinctions. It is because of our misapprehension—born of our non- siddhi and buddhi.” apprehension or ignorance of the one underlying Unity or Reality—that we see the world of plurality, a world separate and different from ourselves. As we know, all sounds are shaped either in the throat, in the mouth or at the lips. AAA emanates Not only do we think of ourselves as being different from the throat, UUU is shaped in the mouth and from one other, but also, we have divided our MMM at the lips. In most languages, the first letter “Gods”: your Allah, my Christ, his Buddha, their in the alphabet has an A-sound. Even the first Krishna! Thus we quarrel amongst ourselves. It is to sound a child starts making is ‘aaa’. The last sound remove this sense of separation and divisiveness, to leave our lips when we close our mouth is and to remind us that other than that Reality there ‘mmm’. ‘Uuu’ is in the middle of the two. Together is nothing, that Shri Guru Nanakji has at the very they represent all the basic sounds from which beginning of the mool mantra used the word Ik. words are produced, and therefore these three sounds making up the single syllable Om represent The Upanishads declare that there is only one the entire universe of names and forms. Hence Ik Reality; if we see anything other than That, it is Onkaar means: ‘that One alone appears in different unreal. This very same fact is echoed by Shri Guru names and forms’. Nanakji in one of His shabads (sayings): “Nanak kahat jagat subh mithyaa, jnu supna rahenaaie. ‘Aaa’ being the first sound also represents the Creator, Nanak says, ‘This world is an illusion, like the Brahmaji; ‘uuu’ signifies the Sustainer, Shri Vishnu; dream at night.’” We think Ishwara, jeeva and jagat, and ‘mmm’ is associated with the Destroyer, Mahesh that is, God, man and the world, are three different or Lord Shiva. That One Infinite Reality from which the entities. But in reality they are one. The wave is entire universe appears, in which it is sustained, and neither distinct nor separate from the ocean. in which it is dissolved, is alone the one Ishwara who Vedanta reiterates this eternal truth in the is the Creator, Sustainer and Destroyer—Brahma, statement, “Brahma satyam jagat mithyaa, jeevo Vishnu and Mahesh. They are not three. Only One is Brahmaiva na apraah. Brahma Satyam: Brahman, playing the three roles. As such through Ik Onkaar the Infinite, alone is real. Jagat mithyaa: Jagat, or Shri Guru Nanak is invoking that one Lord who is the world of experiences, is an illusion. Jeevo Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh simultaneously.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 49 A deeper meaning of Om is explained in the logic, how can we say that this world which we “Mandukya Upanishad”, taking into account all our experience in the waking state is real, when it is not daily experiences in order to serve as a guide in our available to us in the dream state? meditation. This theme may be a bit difficult to grasp for the beginner, but ponder over it and it will For that matter, both the worlds of experience—the reveal to you the truth about your own nature. And waking and dream states—are not available in the the discovery will be most rewarding... deep sleep state. Each is negated in the other state. And even the objects of our experiences never The ‘aaa’ sound in Om represents the waking state, remain the same; what is here today is not there ‘uuu’ the dream state and ‘mmm’ the deep sleep tomorrow. So, too, is the waker not present in the state. The waking state is that in which we experience dream state or the deep sleep state, nor the the gross world of objects through our five senses, dreamer or ‘dream ego’ available in the waking state namely, the eyes, ears, nose, skin and tongue. Dream or deep sleep state, and the deep sleeper in any of state is that in which, during sleep, we see the subtle the two other states. Thus neither the waking world universe conjured up by our suppressed emotions and one’s experiences therein, nor the waker or the and thoughts. And deep sleep state is that in which ‘ego in the waking state’, with its identity as man or there is no experience of any object. woman, king or beggar, is real. The same applies to the dream and deep sleep states. When I identify with the waking state, I am, so to speak, the ‘waker’. Identifying with the dream I am The great Rishis, saints and sages like Shri Guru the dreamer, and in deep sleep I am the sleeper. In Nanak Dev, through Their keen observation, deep the waking state I say, “I am Swami Swaroopananda, thinking and intense meditation, came to I am a man, a sanyaasi.” Last night in my dream I understand that the entire phenomenal world saw I was a king, with a wife and six children! In the consisting of objects, emotions and thoughts, as deep sleep state I am neither. Now tell me, who am well as what one considers oneself in the three I? A sanyaasi or a married king? states, are all untrue and unreal. The Truth, They found out, is beyond all these. It transcends everything. This One Truth or God called Om is something other than all which we experience, for “Shri Guru Nanakji everything we experience is changing. One may come to the conclusion, then, that It does added the word Ik before not exist. Or that this universe comes from non- existence. But if we enquire further, we shall Om to indicate that this discover three very important things: 1) No change is possible without a changeless substratum. For Om alone is the One.” example, for a river to flow, there must be a changeless riverbed, isn’t it? 2) Change is recognized only with reference to the changeless. Janak Maharaj asked the great sage Ashtavakra the For instance, if you were on a ship, you would same question after he saw himself in a dream recognize its movement only with reference to the helplessly begging for food and dying of hunger. motionless lighthouse yonder or some other While he was dreaming, the poverty, the hunger stationary object. 3) Asat or ‘non-existence’ cannot and the suffering were all very real. Yet when he be the cause of all the things we experience as was awake, he experienced a reality of a very existing. What if someone told you that the different kind. So which was real? The king or the children playing in the garden were the children of beggar? The lavish comfort of the palace or the a barren woman’s son? Would you believe that pangs of poverty and hunger? What was the truth? person? A barren woman’s son is non-existent, so how could those children be his? The sage Ashtavakra answered Maharaj Janak, “Neither is real. Truth or Reality is that which Thus the cause of this world is not asat, it is sat. And remains unchanged in the three periods of time: so the next word in the mool mantra is Sat Naam. past, present and future.” Did not Shri Guru Nanakji say exactly the same thing? “Aad sach, jugaad sach, Swami Swaroopananda hai bhi sach, nanak hosi bhi sach”, meaning, “That which was there in the beginning, that which was Source: Meditations on The One Indivisble Truth, there through all the ages, which is here in the Central Chinmaya Mission Trust, p. 11-19 present, and will always remain, even in the future, is the Reality. That which is negated or not present at some point in time is not real.” to be continued… Why do we call that which is experienced in the dream unreal? Is it not because when we wake up, the dream world is no longer there? Following that

50 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 How History Negates History- Makers

Three-score-plus-one years have passed since the Going against all available evidence, there is still greatest human to walk on this earth in the 20th the relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the century, was gunned down by a fanatic. contemporary world and pleads repeatedly of the need of India for the Mahatma’s presence. Perhaps In those 61 years, our rulers and administrators the Mahatma would not risk it. He realised, even at and even common people have done everything, to the dawn of Independence, that his irritating assassinate everything the Mahatma stood for. insistence on honesty, truth and austerity, would be an acute embarrassment to the governance and That heinous crime and what followed have politics of India, even as Kulapati Munshi realised confirmed a historical truth: History takes very little almost a decade prior to freedom, that the most time to negate, nay, invalidate the history-makers. probable casualties of India’s Independence would be its culture, tradition and values. Mahatma Gandhi had done everything to free the minds and bodies of men and nations across the In a sense, the Mahatma’s usefulness to the making of world, and yet, seems to have become irrelevant to a new nation had ended with the birth of a country. his own people and country. They made him the father of the nation and the child disowned the parent promptly and unmistakably. No single human had achieved so much to change the history and geography of the world as the No one saw it more clearly than the Mahatma Mahatma did and yet, he became an instant victim himself. According to Pyare Lal in ‘Mahatma of his own supreme achievement. Born out of Gandhi: the Last Phase,’ he told the Congress struggle based on Satya and Ahimsa, (truth and Working Committee (CWC) in June, 1946, that he non-violence) India, today, has the most diversified was not happy with the latest British proposals but forms of violence on its soil, from teen-age murder, ‘I admit defeat, you are not bound to act on my gangrape, custodial killing at the micro level to suspicion I shall now leave you’, Pyare Lal recalls: student violence, mob violence, bandh violence, ‘Everybody was silent. Everybody understood. In naxalite massacre and terrorist carnage at the that hour of decision, they had no use for Bapu. macro level. They had decided to drop the pilot.’

The death of innocent citizens is a price that our On May 1, 1947, when the partition plan was finally rulers have always to pay, a price that Mahatma approved, according to Pyare Lal, he said: ‘Today I Gandhi would never accept to be low. Rather, he find myself alone, my writ runs no more, no one would have held it to be unaffordably high for any listens to me. I can see clearly that the future of nation to pay. independence gained at this price will be dark’.

Poet Subramania Bharati sang that ‘we would make Our isolation of the Mahatma from ourselves is a law and even enforce it, if one man goes without India’s biggest problem. Is it time to look beyond food, we would destroy the world’. government, public life and business and bureaucracy to the ordinary people of India to What would the Mahatma and Bharati say about invoke the Mahatma to secure and insulate the a country that allows its farmers to kill themselves nation from the scourges of violence and untruth? in thousands? Source: Editorial, Bhavan’s Journal January 31, 2009

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 51 HERITAGE CRAFT

Kantha An Artistic Stitchcraft

Kanthas are essentially made from layers of old There are a variety of Kanthas to serve different materials, sarees etc and embroidered in running purposes. Rumal is a handkerchief. Rumals stitch. It has a number of traditional patterns based generally have a lotus design in the centre with on religious symbols, tales from epics, scenes from other motifs around it. Arshilata in Bengali means a villages, flowers, birds, animals and plants in wrap which is used for wrapping ceremonial books, enchanting colour schemes. valuables etc. It is square in shape, with wide borders of rows of figures, of humans and animals Since ages hand embroidery has been used to with a lotus in the centre and floral patterns in the decorate textiles and garments. Excavations have corners. They also prepare specially designed revealed bronze embroidery needles dating back to pillowcases which have longitudinal patterns of 2300-1500 B.C. as also figurines wearing straight lines, conventional trees and birds. Besides embroidered drapes. Similar embroidered textiles these they prepare a most decorated Sujni, used as can also be seen in the Buddhist sculptures of the a bedspread. It is rectangular in shape and has a second and first century B.C; Kushan sculptures variety of designs and borders. and the frescos of Ajanta. In the Sujni design a lotus in the middle is In India every region has its distinctive style of surrounded by a variety of motifs of creepers, embroidery. The most popular Indian hand animals, birds, flowers etc. Sometimes the embroideries are Phulkari of Punjab, Chikankari of embroidery is worked right through with cotton Lucknow, Kasauti of Karnataka, Toda embroidery of yarn, the ornamentation done in chain stitch while Tamil Nadu, Mirror work of Gujarat and Rajasthan, the background is filled with running stitch in a Kasida of Kashmir, Chamba embroidery of scale pattern. Quilt is also just like Sujni but it is Himachal Pradesh, Applique work of Orissa, always padded and thick, well designed and Gujarat, Rajasthan and Tamil Nadu and Kantha of decorated with many colours. It is just like a West Bengal. blanket and is used in the winter season.

Kantha was essentially worked by women and it is Sujni and Quilt give full freedom to embroiderers to still carried out only by the women folk of Bengal. utilise their skill in using motifs, making patterns Women work on Kantha in their leisure time. A and the selection of colour schemes. number of worn-out and old sarees are layered and sewn together. To keep the layers uniform and If the embroiderers wish to have a traditional straight, weights are placed on the four corners and design, then the motifs are traced on the surface. the layers sewn together using close running stitches. The ground of the motifs is filled up with close, long and short running stitches, using thread

52 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 drawn out from the border of the old sarees. Here I backgrounds. Traditionally they used only white or wish to mention that Bengali cotton sarees have off white old cotton sarees. Many Kantha items are beautiful borders in many colours. Kantha now prepared with cotton, silk, tussar, monga silk, embroiderers are very fond of motifs of lotus, cambric, semi cotton materials, terry cotton and animals—especially elephants and horses, birds— even synthetic fabrics in many beautiful artistic particularly peacocks, flowers—lotus from five colour schemes. petals to hundred petals. They love to make a variety of designs with the help of plants and Embroiderers use both traditional and modern flowers. They also make patterns on popular designs. Many fashion designers are also using themes such as wedding scenes, an entourage of Kantha embroidery with a combination of mirror or musicians, harvest scenes, bullock carts, hunting sequin work. scenes, and scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and other Hindu epics. Sacred Dr Bimla Verma symbols such as fish, conch, shell, lotus flower, tree of life, mandala and kalash are also widely used. Dr Bimla Verma is a freelance writer and photographer. In general, embroiderers take full liberty to introduce innovation in design. Though Kanthas Photographs: Dr. Bimla Verma and Dilip Banerjee have endless motifs and designs but the “Mandala” Source: India Perspectives, Vol. 24, No. 3/2010 and “Kalash” designs are especially made on festive occasions in fulfilment of certain vows.

Whenever the embroiderers use the motif of a lotus, they always start from the centre and work round in a circular shape. In other designs, it starts from the corners, like the tree of life and reaches towards the centre. At times, the stitches are made so cleverly that the design appears the same on both sides and it is almost impossible to distinguish the right side from the reverse.

The most popular colours are blue, yellow, red, black or brown and white. Nowadays embroiderers are using many colours on different coloured

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 53 Kautilya’s Arthshastra An Overview

In third century BC lived Kautiliya, one of the most out with an independent account and commentary fascinating characters in Indian history. His seminal of his own in the form of Arthashastra. This work, Arthashastra, ought to be read by all, be they document is more a tome than a book on statesmen, business managers or academic scholars. economics. Kautilya wrote a comprehensive account encompassing political administration and Indeed, Kautiliya’s Arthashastra is being studied, not defence matters. In the process, he came to the only in India, but everywhere in the world, for its conclusion that economics was the most important deep insights and relevance, even 2400 years after it aspect of public life as it provided the basis for was written. In order to truly appreciate the human existence and survival. significance of Arthashastra, it is necessary to go back in time and study ancient Indian culture. Kautilya concentrated on things that were relevant Kautilya belonged to the Magadh State, which to his time, viz., agriculture, cattle-breeding and corresponds to present day South Bihar. Magadh trade. However, while commenting on other was then the biggest state in India. Kautilya (who matters of administration, Kautilya made reference was also called Chanakya or Vishnugupta) studied to different dimensions that have a strong bearing at one of the world’s oldest universities, Takshasila on economics. Thus, Kautilya provided a detailed University. The subjects studied there were politics, analysis of public finance, taxation, public defence, architecture, medicine, and a few others. expenditure, and investments, appointment of He joined Chandragupta Maurya’s empire, after a ministers and other state officials and many other brief stint with the previous Nanda Dynasty. He matters concerning governance of the state, served as the Mahaamatya, in the Mauryan Empire, a post similar to the present day Prime Minister Of special interest to the readers in India would be and, thus, possessed rich experience in political an elaborate description of how public funds can get administration and defence matters. Eventually, misappropriated and how such practices could be Kautilya became an intelligent scholar, fearless contained and controlled. As for agriculture, thinker, capable secretary, and astute politician. Kautilya went into minute details about cultivation, farming and trading transactions essentially in farm Later, he retired from active politics and took upon products. Looking at the whole document, it can the monumental task of writing the Arthashastra. definitely be said that Kautilya was attempting to Being a profound scholar, he studied the literature set down ways of achieving ‘excellence in economic available to him on subjects like philosophy, and business management’. religion, politics and diplomacy. However, he came

54 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Economic Thought Process another subject which needs to be emphasised in the present context as many Indian states do not Kautilya’s major contribution to the economic have proper land records. Absence of land records thought process could be seen in the area of public inhibits the carrying out of land reforms. finance. He attached considerable importance to financial management by the State recognising that Kautilya also pointed out that irrigation should be the financial strength of the State is critical in normal planned and there should be a provision for buffer times as also in times of war, famine, and other stock, which is a State responsibility. Kautilya calamities. Kautilya referred to seven different realised the need to give relief to needy citizens sources of revenue, classifying them as routine and hence suggested that tax-free land should be sources (like taxes on land and commerce) and allocated to certain specified categories of people. additional sources (such as interest and profits). At the same time, he enumerated 15 heads of Kautilya wrote a very scientific and articulate book expenditure. While levying taxes, he advocated on agricultural economics. It is amazing that he fairness and equity as the basis of taxation. He also showed such great vision and foresight while made a strong case for avoiding discontent among talking about agriculture, which ensured a the taxpayers, as the welfare of citizens was sustainable basis for human existence and uppermost in his mind. The concept of subsidies and livelihood. exemptions seems to have prevailed in Kautilya’s times too. He indicated that these exemptions should Trade and Commerce be judiciously planned and provided to women, minors, students, disabled and others. Kautilya’s Arthashastra also discusses trade and commerce. Trade, whether in farm goods or other While commenting on public finance, Kautilya manufactured items, was largely under the control of showed remarkable foresight and suggested ways the State during his time. Trading operations were for investments in virgin land, dams, tanks, irrigation supervised and controlled by the Superintendent of and mining. How relevant this is even today can be Trade. The prices of traded goods were fixed by the seen from the mention made about conservation of State after undertaking the process of costing, water resources in the last two Budgets. These allowing a profit margin of 5% on domestic goods assets undoubtedly were of critical importance in and 10% on foreign goods. In his book, exports and Kautilya’s times from the point of view of economic imports refer not to foreign countries, but to planning. It is necessary to extend this logic and neighbouring Indian states. Kautilya laid down prepare an exhaustive list of productive assets in procedures for such foreign trade transactions, the context of a modern economy like India. along with methods for price fixation too. Kautilya’s suggestions as regards investments are admirably suited to India and important lessons can be drawn from Arthashastra in this regard. “Kautiliya’s

Equally important is Kautilya’s contribution in the Arthashastra is being management of agriculture which he believed was the basis for any economy. Kautilya pointed out studied, not only in that, besides providing foodgrains to feed the people, agriculture also provided revenue, India, but everywhere employment and food for the army personnel to the State and, hence, he treated land as a very in the world. important asset. He had an exhaustive methodology for cultivation, selection of seeds and, more importantly, forecasting weather conditions, and Kautilya attached considerable importance to rainfall. Given the fact that this was done 2400 years weights and measures used for trade, which were ago, it is remarkable that he advocated a scientific standardised in those days. While the medium of approach to farm operations and management. exchange was silver and copper coins, barters were practised whenever necessary. Kautilya also made Kautilya classified land into arable and non- suggestions for the development and maintenance cultivable land. Arable land was given to the of trade routes. Today, we talk about the importance farmers for life only and Kautilya insisted that taxes of the Golden Quadrilateral highway! It must be were paid by farmers. India, at present, is engaged remembered that Kautilya emphasised that in a debate about tax on agricultural income, which interests of traders, consumers and the ruling state still remains inconclusive. Kautilya provided a must be borne in mind while organising trade and rational defence of his decision. He also advocated commerce. He had the concept of welfare state on that rich farmers be taxed at higher rates. Kautilya his mind in all his teachings. This is interesting, argued for maintaining data on agriculture, since because today, balancing various interests in order this provided necessary information for revenue to introduce VAT has become a major issue, assessment and collection. He made suggestions for the improvement of land records too. This is yet We also find references to industry, mining and

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 55 manufacturing in Kautilya’s Arthashastra. Not modern thoroughly examined. Kautilya also indicated industry, of course, but industries that existed then. methods for salary fixation and insisted that there Reference is made to the textile industry engaged in be differentiation in salary in order to compensate the production of wool, bark fibre, cotton and hemp. officers with superior qualities. He also explained Chariots were used in those times and hence, how duties and responsibilities of State officers industrial activity in the manufacture of such items should be fixed and what penalties should be existed in Kautilya’s times, imposed for non-fulfillment of duties.

Kautilya was also aware of the need for education and training of the different functionaries. He drew “Kautilya wrote a up detailed instructions about the training and familiarisation of the King and the heir apparent comprehensive account with various subjects relevant to administration and defence.

encompassing political HRD matters have become very important in India. The new economic regime, with its focus on administration and globalisation, has made it imperative to adopt an appropriate HRD approach. Lessons can be drawn defence matters.” from Kautilya’s Arthashastra on how HRD can be conveniently tackled in the current economic circumstance prevailing in India. Apart from investment of State funds in mines, Kautilya made suggestions for renewal and Governance renovation of discarded mines. It is interesting that gold and silver held great appeal in Kautilya’s times It is finally necessary to understand the concept of too. Besides, mines for copper, lead, tin, and iron governance, as explained by Kautilya. He wrote ore were developed. Manufacture of defence about governance in the context of a monarchic weapons, coins and implements for farming State and the principles enumerated by him were operations were undertaken in those times. There with reference to governance of such a State. The existed a total State monopoly on mining and CEO of the State is the King and Kautilya described manufacturing and the private sector did not exist in detail the King’s duties, his background, and his in any form in these sectors. The State enjoyed a supreme position in all matters concerning the State. commanding position on treasury and defence Kautilya prescribed a comprehensive daily routine, operations and hence its total control on the divided into seven phases from early morning to late relevant industrial activity, evening, so that the King’s time was spent effectively on efficient administration. According to Kautilya, Labour Policy and HRD Practices the King should possess knowledge of philosophy, old scriptures, political ethics, diplomacy, and the Kautilya devoted a lot of his attention to labour functioning of the economy. policies and human resource development matters. However, these were with reference to State service In terms of good governance, Kautilya commented and procedures to be followed by the State for the that the King should administer law and justice. He recruitment of ministers, secretaries and other said that the King was the final arbiter and the officers. Besides, detailed procedures were indicated fountain of justice. The classification of legal for conducting tests, fixing remuneration, for rotation matters into civil and criminal is found in Kautilya’s of duties, and promotions. While laying down these Arthashastra. He laid down elaborate guidelines for guidelines, Kautilya opined that the treatment of the administering justice in terms of evidence, labour force had to be fair, yet strict. Even though the procedures, and witnesses. Kautilya strongly concept of HRD has not been mentioned specifically believed in Dandniti, though he maintained that in Kautilya’s Arthashastra, all these guidelines give penalties must be fair and just, and proportionate an impression that Kautilya was propounding to the offence committed. ‘human resource development’ in a detailed manner. He believed in the welfare state and his As for the State’s political administration, Kautilya labour policy and administrative procedures were provided a full-fledged commentary on how this in tune with that spirit in a broad sense. should be effectively undertaken. He gave instructions about the defence of the State’s Kautilya put forward an elaborate process of boundaries, protection of the forts, and the manner selection of ministers, secretaries, palace in which an invasion by the enemy should be attendants, financial accountants, administrative handled. The day-to-day functions to be performed officers, secret agents, and ambassadors of State. by the prince, ministers and other state officials Apart from their technical competence and were described by Kautilya. He also assigned knowledge, Kautilya stipulated that qualities, such importance to expanding and consolidating the as, spirit, intelligence, integrity and loyalty must be State’s position. Kautilya was preoccupied with the

56 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 task of consolidation of the Maurya Empire into a Apart from broad principles of governance, unified central regime and having achieved these Kautilya provided techniques for enforcement of goals, he knew exactly how this task could be law and justice. The universality of his teachings accomplished. Kautilya believed in the end result stems from his focus on techniques required to and hence was not too sensitive about the means enforce principles. His sense of pragmatism in deployed. He upheld moral and ethical standards in matters of governance needs to be imbibed by his personal life. However, he was straightforward in politicians and practising managers, apart from recommending means, fair or foul, in achieving the research scholars. goals of the State. In fact, many scholars criticised him on this score. Kautilya concerned India is endowed with a rich treasure trove of misappropriation of state funds. He prepared an knowledge, with books such as Arthashastra and exhaustive list of dubious methods employed for other such documents that have been well- embezzlement of funds and other similar preserved over many centuries. The present day malpractices. He explained how checks and economic administrators would immensely benefit balances should be administrated for the from Kautilya’s teachings with suitably adapted containment of malpractices. This is perhaps among applications in diverse areas of our economy. the most important lessons that can be learnt by the administrators of India. Identifying corrupt practices Kautilya’s emphasis on excellence in economic and and prescribing strict and stringent remedies and business management remains relevant in today’s penalties for the containment of such practices is globalised environment. the most urgent task and challenge faced by India. The enforcement machinery could benefit from the Source: Kautilya’s Arthashastra, The Way of study of Kautilya’s Arthashastra specifically from this Financial Management and Economic point of view. Governance, p. 1-11, JAICO Publishing House, Mumbai, India Relevance of Kautilya’s Arthashastra We are starting series on this Book, Kautilya’s A deep understanding of Kautilya’s Arthashastra Arthashastra to start from Chapter 1. would offer important lessons in contemporary times too. Even though the circumstances prevailing in Kautilya’s times were vastly different, his teachings have a universal appeal. He was to be continued… charting a path for economic prosperity through entrepreneurship and astute strategising to achieve prosperity under any situation. Kautilya realised that wealth creation was crucial for establishing a welfare state. He outlined and advocated appropriate strategies for creation, protection and conservation of a nation’s wealth. “The present day economic administrators would immensely benefit from Kautilya’s teachings.”

Kautilya’s specific commentary on areas like public finance and treasury, investments in productive assets, techniques of agriculture and cattle breeding, and trade and commerce would be found to be very useful and relevant to this day. Obviously, these strategies need to be suitably adapted, given the prevailing political and social environment as also the availability of advanced technologies. Apart from these specific issues, Kautilya’s Arthashastra could be treated as the quintessence of the art of good governance.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 57 Lala Lajpat Rai

Lala Lajpat Rai was born in 1865 into an Aggarwal Samaj managed to maintain its unity owing to the trader family. His birth took place at his maternal efforts of Lalaji and many other experienced leaders grand-parents’ home in a village called Dhudike in who realized that a split would hurt the nation. Ferozpur District while his mother was visiting there. His father, Munshi Radha Krishna Azad, a Lalaji started the Anglo-Sanskrit High School pious and learned man, was at the time receiving at Jullundur and assumed the responsibility of education at Normal School, Delhi after serving as a the Secretary of the Management Committee. He teacher for three years. Lalaji’s mother, Shrimati was an advocate of self-reliance and refused to Gulab Devi, a strict religious lady, inculcated in her take Government aid for the D.A.V. College. Lalaji children strong morals values. also became the General Secretary of the first Hindu orphanage established at Ferozepur by Early Life the Arya Samaj.

Lalaji received his education until his Entrance The Famine Examination in places where his father was posted as teacher. Lalaji joined the Government College at Lalaji provided immense service toward the famine Lahore in 1880 to study Law. While in college he relief efforts during the famines of 1897 and 1899. came in contact with patriots and future freedom He mobilized D.A.V. college students and went to fighters like Lala Hans Raj and Pandit Guru Dutt. Bikaner and other areas of Rajasthan to rescue The three became fast friends and joined the Arya destitute children and bring them to Lahore. He Samaj founded by Swami Dayananda. Lalaji passed believed that “a nation that does not protect its his Mukhtiarship (junior pleader) examination and own orphan children cannot command respect at started his legal practice in Jagraon. He passed his the hands of other people.” When people fleeing Vakilship Examination in Second Division from the famine reached Lahore, they spent their first Government College in 1885. He started his night at Lalaji’s house. The Kangra district of practice in Rohtak but moved it to Hissar where Punjab suffered destruction in the earthquake of some of his friends were also practicing the Law. 1905. Lalaji was there once again, organizing relief for extricating people from the debris. In 1898, Arya Samaj Lalaji curtailed his legal practice and vowed to devote all his energy for the nation. Lalaji’s early legal practice at Hissar was very successful. Besides practicing, Lalaji collected University Education Commission funds for the Daya Nand College, attended Arya Samaj functions and participated in Congress Lalaji was opposed to the recommendations of the activities. He was elected to the Hissar municipality University Education Commission. The as a member and later as secretary. commission, recommended Government control of education and set forth difficult standards for Lalaji shifted to Lahore in 1892. Soon after settling in starting private schools. Punjab was adversely Lahore, the Arya Samaj suffered a vertical split into affected by the commission because the Arya two factions, the College Party and the Gurukul Samaj was extremely active in the field of Party. Lalaji supported the College Party which education. After the commission, it became favored teaching English along with Sanskrit in impossible for the people to have any say in their schools while the Gurukul Party wanted the children’s education. Lalaji declared that “the exclusion of English from the curriculum. The Arya Government by these new regulations has made it

58 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 almost impossible for the Private Education the Tilak Swarajya Fund to raise one crore rupees Societies to start schools or improve them. People for the effort. Lalaji collected nine lakh rupees are compelled to deduce... that... the Government within two weeks for the fund. Lalaji was arrested (does not want) to spend money for educational on December 3, 1921 in Lahore for his activities work, nor can endure that Indians should related to the non-cooperation movement and was voluntarily undertake this work by spending imprisoned for a year and a half. The program was a money, unless the Indians hand over their money resounding success. The Government machinery, and efforts to the Government. It would have been slowly but surely, began to grind to a halt. The impossible for institutions like the Metropolitan Governor General invited Mahatma Gandhi to College, Calcutta College, Fergusson College, Poona attend a Round Table Conference in London, Britain. and D.A.V. College... to come into existence under the present policies.” Hindu-Muslim Unity

Bengal Partition The British began to employ the tried and tested Divide and Rule policy once again by harping on Lalaji dove headlong in the struggle against communal discord between Hindus and Muslims. partition of Bengal. Along with Surendra Nath Riots were justified by Muslim leaders as a fight for Banerjea, Bipin Chandra Pal and Arvinda Ghosh, he equal political rights if and when India became free. galvanized Bengal and the nation in a vigorous The Muslim leaders assured that the squabbles campaign of swadeshi. The British Government would stop if they were granted political rights claimed that partition would make administering according to their wishes. To cater to this request, the region easier. The leaders saw through this the Congress appointed Lalaji and Dr. Ansari for excuse as the age old British policy of divide and bringing Hindu- Muslim unity. Chittranjan Das rule at work. submitted his own proposal while Lalaji and Dr. Ansari were holding deliberations. C.R. Das’s efforts Rawalpindi Turmoil failed to achieve their goal and Hindu-Muslim discord persisted. Lalaji was arrested on May 3, 1907 for creating “turmoil” in Rawalpindi. Lalaji went there when he Simon Commission and Death learned that five prominent Indian lawyers had been served notices by the Deputy Commissioner. The Lalaji was disgusted at the arrogance of the British District Magistrate banned any public meetings or for sending the Simon Commission comprised of speeches. Lalaji was to give a speech at Rawalpindi in Britishers only. On February 16, 1927, Lalaji moved connection with the served notices. The Magistrate a resolution in the Central Legislative Assembly, declared the congregation that had come to hear refusing cooperation with the Simon Commission Lalaji’s speech seditious. When Lalaji could not stop ‘at any stage or in any form.” He spoke with such their arrest, he returned to Lahore to move the Chief fervor that he carried the house and got the Court for the bail of the lawyers. The Government resolution adopted in the Assembly. The was informed that Lalaji was responsible for the Government imposed section 144 to restrain unrest in Rawalpindi and was arrested. people from protesting against the commission. Lalaji joined a demonstration against the Simon Freedom Struggle Commission. The police lathi-charged the assembled. While Lalaji tried his level best to keep Lalaji believed that it was important for the the demonstration peaceful, the police targeted national cause to organize propaganda in foreign him and wounded him on his chest. The people countries to explain India’s position because the were enraged at this insult and held a meeting the freedom struggle had taken a militant turn. He left same evening. Lalaji, though in intense pain, gave a for Britain in April 1914 for this purpose. Lalaji speech and declared “...every blow aimed at me is a wrote numerous articles and delivered many nail in the coffin of British Imperialism...” He speeches. A couple of months later, World War I recovered from the wounds left by the British but broke out between England and Germany and Lalaji he remained emotionally scarred at the brutality of was not allowed to return to India. Lalaji the “civilized” British. Why had he been specifically immediately made plans to go to U.S.A. to galvanize targeted by the British? Why had they lathi-charged more political support for India’s cause. against a peaceful gathering? These thoughts racked his spirit till the very end. Lalaji died on On his return, the Congress invited him to preside November 17, 1928 of heart failure. over the special session in Calcutta in 1920. Lalaji supported the non-cooperation movement, which Lalaji appealed to the people “I do not know was being launched in response to the Rowlatt whether I shall remain, but you should never worry. (Black) Act, in principle. He was skeptical if such a My spirit after me will go on exhorting you to make mass boycott comprising of educational more sacrifices for liberty.” institutions, job, law courts and foreign goods was truly achievable. Lalaji nevertheless exhorted the Source: www.liveindia.com nation to answer the Congress’s demand for complete non-cooperation. The Congress started

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 59 A Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi Gandhi Stamps around the World (Outside India)

Source: http://gandhistamps.com

60 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 61 Karan Faridoon Bilimoria Karan Faridoon Bilimoria is an entrepreneur and a life peer. Best known as the Founder and Chairman of Cobra Beer, Bilimoria is the Chairman of the UK-India Business Council. In 2005, he became Chancellor of Thames Valley University—the United Kingdom’s youngest University Chancellor at the time. In 2006, he was chosen as a cross- bench life peer with the title Baron Bilimoria, of Chelsea in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Prime Minister of Chelsea by the House of Lords Appointments Commission, becoming the first-ever Parsi in the India Global House of Lords. Advisory Council Swadesh Chatterjee Swadesh Chatterjee, born in Prominent Global (Indian) Achievers Somamukhi, West Bengal in 1947, first arrived in the United States in November 1978 with The Indian Government constituted the Prime his wife and young daughter. He Minister’s Global Advisory Council in pursuance of became an American citizen in the announcement made by Prime Minister Dr. 1993. During the last 20 years Manmohan Singh on the occasion of the Pravasi Swadesh has risen to Bharatiya Divas in January 2008 in New Delhi. prominence within the Indian American Community, not only in his home state of North The Prime Minister’s Global Advisory Council is Carolina, but also nationally. In 1998, he was based on the idea that the highly skilled overseas elected National President of the Indian American Indian community represents a vast untapped Forum for Political Education, a nationwide resource that can be harnessed as an input into organisation whose goals are to boost the political national development processes in India. participation by Members of the Indian American Community and to improve the relationship The Council will specifically focus on the between the United States and India. promotion of business-to-business partnerships, creating appropriate institutional mechanisms that Ela Gandhi can leverage knowledge, skills and expertise possessed by the overseas Indian community for Ela Gandhi, granddaughter of socio-economic development processes in the Mahatma Gandhi is a peace country, and channelising the substantial overseas activist and was a Member of Indian philanthropic efforts in India into priority. Parliament in South Africa from 1994-2004, where she aligned The Prime Minister will chair the Council. Its with the African National Members will include the External Affairs Minister, Congress (ANC) party the Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs, senior representing the Phoenix area of designated officials from the Government of India, Inanda in the KwaZulu Natal province. Her and prominent overseas Indians who have parliamentary committee assignments included the accepted the Prime Minister’s invitation to be Welfare, and Public Enterprises committees as well Members. They are: as the ad-hoc committee on Surrogate Motherhood. She was an alternate Member of the Justice Prof. Jagdish Bhagwati Committee and served on Theme Committee 5 on Judiciary and Legal Systems. Prof. Jagdish Bhagwati is a Professor at Columbia Rajat Kumar Gupta University and Senior Fellow in International Economics at the Rajat Kumar Gupta is the Council on Foreign Relations. He current Special Advisor on has been Economic Policy management reforms to the Advisor to Arthur Dunkel, Secretary-General of the United Director General of GATT (1991- Nations. He is also an 93), Special Advisor to the UN on Globalization, and independent Director at External Advisor to the WTO. Goldman Sachs and is a Member

62 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 of the board of trustees of the University of Chicago. P.N.C. Menon P.N.C. Menon is a noted Renu Khator Philanthropist and is engaged in several charitable and social Renu Khator is the eighth projects in India, which include Chancellor of the University of a skill development project in Houston System and 13th Kerala for the economically President of the University of weaker sections of the society. Houston. Before assuming the He has also built a home for position in January 2008, she senior citizens and widows, a healthcare centre and served as provost and Senior an exclusive educational institution of global Vice-President at the University standards for underprivileged children. of South Florida. Khator is the first foreign-born President of the university, and the second woman to hold the position. Indra K. Nooyi Indra K. Nooyi is the Lord Khalid Hameed Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer of PepsiCo, the world’s Lord Khalid Hameed was the fourth-largest food and beverage executive Director & Chief company. According to the Executive Officer of the Forbes magazine polls, Nooyi Cromwell Hospital in London. He ranks third on the 2008 list of hails from Lucknow, India. He ‘The World’s 100 Most Powerful chairs the Commonwealth Youth Women’. In 2008, Nooyi was also named one of Exchange Council. He is a Board America’s Best Leaders by U.S. News & World Member of the British Muslim Report. Research Centre, and also the Ethnic Minorities Foundation. He is an Executive Member of the Maimonides Foundation and a trustee of the Little Lord Bhikhu Chhotalal Parekh Foundation. Dr Hameed supports various charities Bhikhu Chhotalal Parekh was and was awarded the Sternberg Award of 2005 for born in 1935 and was raised to his contribution to further Christian-Muslim-Jewish the peerage as Baron Parekh of Relations. Kingston upon Hull in the East Riding of Yorkshire in 2000. His Kishore Mahbubani career achievements include being a political tutor at the Kishore Mahbubani is the Dean London School of Economics, a of the Lee Kuan Yew School of politics lecturer at Glasgow University, and Public Policy at the National Professor of Political Theory at University of University of Singapore. From Baroda. Lord Parekh is a Member of the Select 1971 to 2004 he served in the Committee on Human Rights and is the Founding Singaporean Foreign Service, Member and past President of the research ending up as Singapore’s committee on political philosophy of International Ambassador to the United Political Science Association. Nations. In that role he served as President of the United Nations Security Council in January 2001 and May 2002. C.K. Prahlad C.K. Prahlad is a Management Lakshmi Narayan Mittal Consultant, Author, and the Paul and Ruth McCracken Lakshmi Narayan Mittal is an Distinguished University Indian industrialist based in the Professor of Corporate Strategy United Kingdom. He is ranked at the University of Michigan’s among the few richest men in Ross School of Business. He has the world. He was born in authored several international Sadulpur village, in the Churu bestsellers, including: Competing for the Future district of Rajasthan and he (with Gary Hamel) in 1994, The Future of resides in Kensington, London. Competition (with Venkat Ramaswamy) in 2004 and He is the Chairman and CEO of ArcelorMittal The Fortune at the Bottom of the Pyramid: (founder of Mittal before merger with Arcelor) and Eradicating Poverty through Profits in 2004. His also serves as a non-Executive Director of Goldman new book with co-author M.S. Krishnan is called Sachs, EADS and ICICI Bank. The New Age of Innovation. Sadly Prof C.K. Prahlad passed away on 17 April 2010.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 63 Telecommunication Union (ITU) initiative. He holds Ajit Singh many key technology patents, has been involved in Ajit Singh has been Chairman several startups, and lectures extensively around and an Executive Director of the world on management, governance and the Nam Fatt Corp. Bhd since implications of communication and information September 19, 2003. Tan Sri Dato technology. He has also served as an Advisor to the Ajit Singh served in various United Nations. positions in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and at Malaysian Srinivasa SR Varadhan Missions in Canberra, Addis Prof. Srinivasa SR Varadhan is an Indian-American Ababa (Ethiopia) and New York. He was Malaysia’s probabilist. Since 1963, he has worked at the Ambassador in Vietnam, Austria, Brazil (with Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences at New concurrent accreditation to Bolivia, Colombia, Peru York University, where he is currently a Professor. and Venezuela) and Germany. He was elected as the Varadhan is known for his work with Daniel W. first Secretary-General of ASEAN and served from Stroock on diffusion processes, for which he 1993 to 1997. received the Steele Prize from the American Mathematical Society in 1996, and for his work on Amartya Sen large deviations with M.D. Donsker, for which he Amartya Sen is a Bengali Indian was awarded the Abel Prize on March 22, 2007 by Eonomist, Philosopher, and a the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters. winner of the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1998, “for Yusuf Ali M.A. his contributions to welfare Yusuf Ali M.A. is a prominent NRI economics” for his work on businessman and Managing famine, human development Director of Emke Group. Emke is theory, welfare economics, the best known in the Gulf through a underlying mechanisms of poverty, and political chain of hypermarkets, liberalism. From 1998 to 2004 he was Master of supermarkets and department Trinity College at Cambridge University, becoming stores, which serve the widest the first Asian academic to head an Oxbridge college. segments of multi-ethnic residents in the region. Vikram Pandit Vikram Pandit is the CEO of Shashi Tharoor Citigroup. Pandit was a Shashi Tharoor is a Writer and Professor at Indiana University an Indian Diplomat at the United Bloomington before joining Nations. Tharoor served as the Morgan Stanley. As head of UN Under-Secretary General for Morgan Stanley’s institutional Communications and Public securities division from 1994 to Information between June 2002 2000, he pushed the company and February 2007, during the further into electronic trading and helped to build term of Secretary-General Kofi prime brokerage services that catered to hedge Annan. He is an Author, Journalist, and Fellow of funds. The Indian government awarded him the the USC Centre on Public Diplomacy. Padma Bhushan in 2008. On December 11, 2007, Pandit was named the new CEO of Citigroup, replacing interim-CEO Sir Winfried Bischoff, who Mr Neville Joseph Roach AO became Chairman of the Board while remaining as Mr Roach is the Chairman of the CEO of Citigroup Europe. Interim Chairman Robert Smart Services CRC and its Rubin strongly supported Pandit, who is the predecessor Smart Internet effective successor to Chuck Prince. Technology CRC. In January 2008 he received the Pravasi Sam Pitroda Bharatiya Samman Award (Overseas Indian Honour Award) Sam Pitroda born in Titlagarh, from the President of India. Mr Orissa, is an inventor, Neville Joseph Roach was nominated as a member entrepreneur and policymaker. of the Prime Minister’s Global Advisory Council of Currently Chairman of India’s Overseas Indians in place of Mr Shashi Tharoor, National Knowledge when Mr Tharoor became Minister of State for Commission, he is also widely External Affairs in the Indian Government. considered to have been responsible for India’s Source: http://overseasindian.in communication revolution. He is the Chairman of World-Tel Limited, an International

64 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 FROM THE PRESIDENT

Success Pours Only Out of the Crucible of Effort

Many amongst us, embarking on a vocation, almost involuntarily choose to gather moss rather than move on and forsake their unruffled mooring. Yet, they never stop to rue some quirk of fate when others around them march ahead and excel themselves.

The stagnation in their case stems intrinsically from a self-imposed constriction and being content with a predictable mundane existence, ever petrified to step out into the alien world beyond.

Poverty is a curse. Worse still is to concede it as a fait accompli. Had every human been born with a silver spoon in the mouth, the human race would not have certainly emerged out of its primitive stages to this day.

The resources of the land would have remained buried beneath and the soil unploughed for harvesting.

Civilisation owes more to the perpetual struggle of man to improve his lot than to anything else. The However, human being is so constituted as to make greatest Nature has of sacrifices while struggling to attain what he its own way yearns for. It is the burgeoning necessity to that puts a man improve his condition for sheer survival that has through the hardest urged man onward and developed the stamina and school of discipline sterling character of the whole human race. and trains him for years in order to perfect its work. True fortitude is a trait, which must be wrested out of hurdles overcome. Life is like a gymnasium The reward one gets on the way where one gains nothing by sitting back and is only incidental. Nature is solely watching others do all the workout. after the man and everything else is ancillary, in comparison; but Nature will pay any One has to toil himself as there is no place in the price for a human giant. middle. Likewise, one cannot merely stand and stare at destitution but must grapple with it by dreaming Gold that remains buried in earth is of no value. Only big, by being audacious and taking bigger calculated when it is melted in the crucible, purified repeatedly risks. This must become the mentoring belief. and beaten into shape again and again, that it acquires its allure, grandeur, brilliance and value. Barring brilliance, it is likely that a plodding student who has to struggle hard to obtain an One has to undergo the stress and strain to acquire education will have more power of retention than a the luster and radiance of a successful person. more gifted one who breezes through examinations with carefree flippancy. Surendralal G. Mehta Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 65 New Policy Paradigms for a New World

Washington, DC: Over the last quarter-century, the overarching framework to manage risks in the global economy enjoyed a remarkable stretch of financial system as a whole. stable growth and low inflation. The so-called “Great Moderation” lulled many policymakers into Much has already been done to advance regulatory a false sense of security about their ability to reform, notably the recent agreement to strengthen manage the economy and deal with financial crises. bank capital (Basel III). Yet we are far from having But, as the Great Moderation metastasized into the the supervision needed for proper implementation Great Recession, fatal flaws in conventional of the rules. Effective resolution mechanisms and thinking came to light. One of the most notable was systemic frameworks remain even more elusive. just how poorly we grasped the linkages between the financial system and the broader economy—as Moving to the broader economy, we have learned well as the linkages between countries. that growth must be balanced in order to be healthy. At the national level, this requires tools to Today, as policymakers seek new paradigms for prevent excesses in one sector from bringing down managing the economy in 2011 and beyond, a the entire economy. At the global level, it requires a better understanding of these linkages will be better distribution of growth across countries, in essential to promoting economic growth and order to prevent destabilizing imbalances. reducing the risk of crises. Equally important is the realization that by working together, we can build a What are the implications for macroeconomic more successful and more stable global economy, policy? for the benefit of all countries. Monetary policy needs to look beyond its core Let me spell out what this means for three focus on low and stable inflation and pay much policy objectives: building a stronger and safer greater attention to financial stability. The debate financial sector, achieving more balanced and more now is how, exactly, to factor this imperative into stable growth, and managing large and volatile monetary policy, and how to coordinate the work capital flows. of monetary and regulatory authorities.

A stronger and safer financial system is the For fiscal policy, the crisis showed the value of bedrock of a successful economy. This requires maintaining low public debt and deficits during good strong regulation, with a sensible rulebook for times: countries with healthier public finances have financial markets and institutions. And, to ensure more space to cushion the economic impact of crises. that everyone plays by the rules, financial But the Great Recession has caused public debt and institutions must be supervised intensively. deficits in many advanced economies to soar.

Now, even with the best rules and supervision, How quickly fiscal retrenchment should be crises will still occur—which is why we need launched—and the right balance between higher effective resolution mechanisms to deal with taxes and lower spending—will vary by country, institutions that get into trouble. And, finally, given reflecting factors like the strength of the economic powerful interactions within the financial sector recovery, the market’s appetite for debt, and initial and across the broader economy, we need an spending and revenue ratios. But the common

66 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 objective for fiscal policy must be to support identify the best policies for dealing with them— durable medium-term growth and job creation. keeping in mind the impact of these policies on the global economy as a whole. And we should explore The distribution of income is another important whether a system of global rules aimed at reducing issue. In the years leading up to the crisis, the volatility of capital flows would be useful. inequality rose in many countries, with worrisome consequences for social cohesion. Rising inequality Global financial insurance is an important related may also have increased vulnerability to crisis: issue. Just as a family backstops its savings with with fewer people able to dip into savings during insurance, countries should be able to tap into a bad times, the impact on growth is even larger. global financial safety net. Much has already been achieved since the crisis, through more resources Turning to the international dimension, for the IMF and new financing instruments. But understanding better how policies adopted in one more is needed, and the Fund is exploring country spill over onto other economies is key. cooperation with regional financing mechanisms, This approach lies at the heart of the G-20’s efforts as well as new ways to use its instruments in a to achieve strong, stable, and balanced global systemic crisis. growth. The International Monetary Fund is also stepping up its work in this area, through “spillover Let me tie all of this together. One principal policy reports” on China, the euro zone, Japan, the United failure in the run-up to the crisis was a lack of Kingdom, and the United States. imagination: we failed to appreciate just how intricate the global economic and financial web had Gaining a better appreciation of the financial become. Let our next failing not be the result of a linkages between countries is also important. lack of cooperation. We must reach across old During the crisis, we saw how quickly capital fled dividing lines—both within economies and from countries previously considered safe bets. between them—and work together to build a Today, many of these countries are reeling from a stronger, more resilient global economy. veritable tsunami of returning money. Dominique Strauss-Kahn Policymakers in many emerging-market countries worry that surging capital inflows will drive up the Dominique Strauss-Kahn value of the local currency, destabilize financial is Managing Director markets, and fuel economic overheating. Their of the International reactions range from buying up the foreign money Monetary Fund (IMF). to prevent currency appreciation to adopting capital controls, and, in extreme cases, to keeping Copyright: Project the money out altogether. The situation has Syndicate, 2010. become quite tense, with talk of “currency wars” Source: www.project- and a real risk of financial protectionism. syndicate.org

Clearly, we need to get a better handle on what is driving these capital inflows. We also need to

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 67 PRIYADARSHNI ACADEMY, INDIA

Saga of Sustained Growth Realisation of a Dream...

Priyadarshni Academy was born in 1984 as a socio- presence of Speaker Mr. Shivraj Patil, President Dr. cultural and educational organization. It was born Shankar Dayal Sharma, Vice President Mr. K.R. out of an informal meeting of a few well-wishers of Narayanan and Prime Minister Mr. P.V. Narsimha Rao. Mr. Nanik Rupani which prompted him to decide on The occasion was the presentation of a portrait of the setting up a social service body. The people who late Prime Minister Mr. Rajiv Gandhi on his 49th birth attended that meeting included Messrs. Murli anniversary. The portrait was unveiled by Hon’ble Adnani, Popati Hiranandani, Jamanadas Lalwani, President Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma. This honor has Kaushi Mirpuri, Ramkrishin Advani, Chander elevated the stature of the Academy to greater heights. Manghnani and Madhav Balwani. They discussed the idea to have a platform for an upcoming Global Awards Galore! danseuse to perform in the city. The bright idea culminated in the establishment of an institution The Global Awards function has remained the which would be well recognized internationally. Academy’s flagship event from inception. It takes two years to mount this programme as the Hitherto, there were only Rotary Clubs, Lion’s Clubs, selections need to be made far in advance so as to Jaycees, the Round Table and similar organizations contact the internationally renowned recipients which had an international reach. The motivating regarding their availability. A number of leaders in factor for the friends of Mr. Rupani was to discuss India consider the awards as Asia’s Nobel Prize. the possibility of setting up an institution that would recognize Indian talents and honor them. The Academy’s first annual awards programme was very different. Until 1998, the awards were on With this idea in mind, an organization was shaped National basis and awardees only from various parts and was formally inaugurated in 1985. The of India. The first Priyadarshni Academy awardee inaugural function was attended by the entire was Prof. Ram Panjwani who was honored for his Cabinet of the Maharashtra government and other social service. Barrister Hotchand Advani was also stalwarts of the Indian National Congress party. On awarded for his contribution to education that year. the occasion, an announcement was made for the In 1986, the annual literary awards were started. institution of educational scholarships, literary awards and a national integration award. There In 1993, the first international award was were skeptics who could not grapple with the idea introduced and bestowed on Dr. Daisaku Ikeda, of raising funds for the purpose. However, Mr. President, Soka Gakkai International, Japan. He was Rupani was determined and he managed to meet given the Global Peace Award for International the expenses for over a decade from his own Understanding. The Award programme was annual companies and a few friends and well wishers. until 1994 and from 1996, it became biennial. In the year 2000, the Harish Mahindra Memorial Global Unique Honor Award for Outstanding Contribution to Corporate Social Responsibility was introduced and its first On August 20, 1993, Mr. Rupani had the honor and recipient was Mr. Katsuhiko Machida, President, privilege of addressing Parliament House in the Sharp Corporation, Japan.

68 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 The awards programme has taken giant leaps from Above: Chairman of Priyadarshni Academy, Mr. very modest beginnings. Both the number of awards Nanik Rupani, addressing the August gathering at and the disciplines in which awards are given have Parliament House. Others seen in the picture expanded. While the Harish Mahindra Memorial (L-R): Mr. P.V. Narasimha Rao, Prime Minister; Mr. Global Award, the Overseas Indian Award, and the K.R. Narayanan, Vice President; Dr. Shankar Dayal Smita Patil Memorial Award are given every time, the Sharma, President; and Mr. Shivraj Patil, Speaker. other awards are selected in fields of contemporary value. In 2008 alone, the fields encompassed innovative leadership, medicine, business innovation, human rights, financial services, international diplomacy and development of wind energy. countries like UK, USA, Japan and Sweden under Scholarships & Financial Assistance the banner ‘Priyadarshni Academy’s Laughter Club International’ (PLCI). The concept of laughter Providing educational assistance to the needy has been therapy has helped numerous people at the one of the Academy’s major endeavors. It started emotional, mental and physical levels enabling helping meritorious and economically poor students them to lead a more positive life. since 1988. The scholarship scheme has grown over the years. Thousands of students from all over the country Smita Patil Memorial Award have been beneficiaries of scholarships and financial The Smita Patil Memorial Award was instituted in assistance. During the devastating floods in Mumbai in 1987 for honoring outstanding female actors of the July 2005, the Academy extended its support to 350 Indian cinema for their exemplary service to the students from different areas of Mumbai. film world. Many of them have been honored National Integration through Dance and Music during the Global Awards function along with other national and international celebrities. Kum. Tanvi Preserving the glorious heritage and tradition of Azmi was the first recipient of the Smita Patil India through the promotion of the Indian Memorial Award. performing arts by budding artistes has become a major endeavor of the Academy. Its prestigious Literary Awards National Integration through Dance and Music The literary awards have been given annually to project has provided a platform to many upcoming recognize the accomplishments of litterateurs in and accomplished artistes to carve a niche in the Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati and Sindhi languages. Since field of the classical performing arts. its inception in 1986, several personalities have Laughter Club International been honored with cash awards and trophies to help them pursue their literary activities. The The Academy has promoted the concept and literary awards carry a trophy and a purse of Rs. practice of laughter therapy in India and in 25,000 each.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 69 The Vedic Research Project Publications

The Vedic Research Centre was instituted in joint Priyadarshni Academy has brought out its debut collaboration with India International Multiversity, publication, “Kautilya’s Arthashastra: The Way of Pune, and is the result of a vision shared by Mr. Financial Management and Economic Governance” Nanik Rupani, Chairman, Priyadarshni Academy in collaboration with Jaico Publishing House. The and Dr. Vijay Bhatkar, Chancellor, India book was released by Dr. (Mrs.) Indu Shahani, International Multiversity. The Centre seeks to Honorable Sheriff of Mumbai, at the Rotary Meeting foster the study, rediscovery and presentation of at Taj Gateway Room on 1st September 2009. Most the wealth of knowledge our ancestors have Indians know about Kautilya and Arthashastra only handed down. It further seeks to adopt and spread while reading history books in school. Though this knowledge for the betterment of the society. Kautilya wrote the book some 2400 years back, the book still has a lot of relevance to the modern world. Social Service Initiatives The Academy is planning to get the Dutch version The Academy has undertaken several social of the book published during the 26th year Global service initiatives including international cultural Awards Function. exchanges, environmental protection, nutritional and monetary assistance to the underprivileged, Priyadarshni Academy has always transformed the promotion of natural living, sports, and projects dreams of the common man into reality and beneficial to teenagers and adolescents. continues to set itself newer goals of social endeavors with each passing year. The Academy is ‘Healthy Youth Healthy India’ committed to realize its motto: ‘Service to Humanity is the best work of life’. As part of the social service initiatives, the Academy undertook a project titled ‘Healthy Youth An Event of Historical Significance Healthy India’ in collaboration with the Association for Adolescent Child Care in India (AACCI) and K.C. The memories of 20th August 1993, the 50th Birth College, Mumbai. It created awareness on lifestyle Anniversary of late Shri Rajiv Gandhi, would be intervention to prevent diseases and also taught etched in gold in the annals of Priyadarshni life skill education to college students, parents and Academy, when the Academy paid tribute to the peer educators. A series of workshops were beloved leader in a unique way. It was on this day organized with the support and participation of that Mr. Nanik Rupani, Chairman of Priyadarshni medical doctors, mental health professionals, Academy, had the rare distinction of presenting a counselors and educationists. portrait of late Mr. Rajiv Gandhi to Mr. Shivraj Patil, the Hon’ble Speaker of the Lok Sabha, for installation in the Central Hall of Parliament House, New Delhi.

“...laughter therapy Present on the occasion were the President, Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma, who unveiled the portrait, the has helped numerous Vice President Mr. K.R. Narayanan, the Prime Minister Mr. P.V. Narasimha Rao, the Hon’ble Speaker Mr. people at the emotional, Shivraj Patil, Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, Central Ministers, Governors, Chief Ministers of States, Members of mental and physical Parliament, and many VIPs and dignitaries. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rupani emphasized levels enabling them the Academy’s commitment of service to society. “Being given such a privilege has further to lead a more accentuated the Academy’s responsibility to society and its progress”, he said. “Late Shri Rajiv positive life. Gandhi was a true patriot and a dynamic, energetic and handsome Prime Minister whom our nation was fortunate to have and it was only apt that his portrait should adorn the Parliament’s wall.” Telephone Booths Nanik Rupani Priyadarshni Academy was a pioneer in organizing Chairman telephone booths to provide employment to the handicapped people of Mumbai. The Academy Priyadarshni Academy, Mumbai, India donated a total of 26 telephone booths in various parts of the city thus enabling the handicapped to be independent and earn a decent living. The first such booth was inaugurated by Ms. Hema Malini.

70 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 A platform for discussing issues that concern the business leaders, professionals, scientists and Indian Diaspora, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is an innovators from Indian Diaspora. annual event held every year in the month of January. Organized jointly by the Government of PBD Conventions provide the largest platform to India and apex industrial body of India, Pravasi the PlOs and NRIs for exchange of views and Bharatiya Divas recognizes the contribution of networking on matters of common interest. Among Indian Diaspora who have excelled in their chosen the decisions taken by the Government of India as a fields. The event acts as a platform for discussing result of wider consultations held at these issues that concern the Indian Diaspora and the Conventions, are formulation of the Overseas development of India. Citizenship of India scheme, establishment of Overseas Indian Facilitation Centre, conceptualizing The event promotes the understanding and relation of Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra, formation of Prime of the Indian Diaspora with India and attempts to Minister’s Global Advisory Council of People of involve their expertise in the development process. Indian Origin, setting up of the India Development Although Pravasi Bharatiya Divas does not have a Foundation, enabling professionals holding long history, it has played a significant role in the Overseas Citizens of India cards to practice in India development in India. in accordance with the provision of relevant acts, providing for voting rights to Non-Resident Indians First Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was celebrated in the and launching of The Global Indian Network of year 2003. Creating ‘consciousness of Global Indian Knowledge (Global-INK). Family’ was the main highlight and achievement of the first Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. The subsequent Source: www.indiaprofile.com, events have led the close interaction of the Indian www.indianholiday.com, www.pbdindia.org Diaspora with the central and state governments to define new policy initiatives for the Diaspora and exploring business opportunities in India and within the Diaspora. These have led in preparing global network of the younger generation of the Indian Diaspora. Most striking instance lies in the third Pravasi Bhartiya Divas in 2005 when the Tsunami- struck southern coasts of India was struggling to restore normalcy and the event raised millions of dollars for the rehabilitation of the victims. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is increasingly being participated by large number of celebrities like political leaders,

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 71 International Symposium on YOGism for Healthy & Happy Living & Aging

International Symposium on ‘YOGism for Healthy & reducing the rate of decrease in grey matter and Happy Living and Aging’ and CME on ‘Management improving the reaction time. Yoga and Meditation of Life Style Health Problems of Global Importance also help in the rehabilitation of patients of through Yoga, Meditation and Naturopathy’ was epilepsy, CV stroke, Parkinsonism, Head injury and organized at Arogyadham, JB Tropical Disease in the treatment of migraine patients. In the elderly Research Centre, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of population it enhances postural control and helps Medical Sciences, Sevagram during December 6-7, in fall prevention. 2010, Cosponsored by CCRYN, New Delhi and supported by KHS, ICMR, MCI, CSIR & DST. By just modifying our life style and dietary habits we can prevent and control the epidemic of The Symposium and CME was designed with the diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disorders. purpose to understand the importance of Yoga therapeutics should be individualized for YOGism—emphasizing its importance as primary each person. So the idea of combining what works prevention in Integrative Medicine with objectives best for the patient from various modalities of to present 1) YOGism as Simple living in harmony healing is really a sound one. with Nature and concern for whole Universe; 2) Discuss the role of Yogasana in body relaxation, On Dec 6th CME two parallel sessions held Pranayama in energy balancing and Meditation in simultaneously with blessings of Smt Hansaji calming down the mind and thus in management of Jayadeva Yogendra, Director, The Yoga Institute, Lifestyle health problems; 3) To highlight the Santacruz, Mumbai. In track ‘A’: Yoga for LIFESTYLE advances in health sciences research by combining Related Problems at JBTDRC Hall. Dr V. Chauhan, the best of the east (Yoga and Spirituality) with that Dean, HIMS, HIHT University, Dehradun, Dr of the west (Modern scientific research). To Shantaram Shetty, Chief Research Co-ordinator & sensitize and motivate doctors in modern medicine Secretary, International Board of Yoga, The Yoga to introduce Naturopathy and Yoga therapy as Institute, Mumbai. Dr Ramaprabhu Vempati, primary intervention in management of Lifestyle Research Leader, Wellpark College of Natural health problems (Integrative Medicine model). Therapies (WCNT), Auckland, NZ Chaired the parallel sessions. Interesting talks were delivered About 107 delegates and 32 Guest speakers and by eminent speakers in CME. Dr P. Saranyan, Eminent scientists, doctors and yogis attended Principal, Sant Hirdaram Medical College of from different countries like Australia, USA, New Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences, Bhopal delivered Zealand, South Korea, Nepal, Belgium and all over lecture on ‘YOGism an important component in India have exchanged their views and knowledge therapeutic lifestyle change measures’, Dr through presentations and discussions. Ramaprabhu Vempati spoke on ‘Yoga for Allergy and Asthma’. Dr T. Pramanik, Department of The sessions of the CME and Symposium, special Physiology, Nepal Medical College, Kathmandu, scientific sessions and guest lectures were Nepal spoke on ‘Immediate effect of slow space beautifully conducted and explained how Yoga acts Bastrika Paranayam on blood pressure and heart as an antidote for stress by improving inner rate’. Dr H.S. Vadiraja, Technical Consultant, strength of an individual. Slow pace breathing CCRYN, New Delhi on ‘Effect of Yoga program in exercise (bastrika) helps in the reduction of BP and early breast cancer patient undergoing adjuvant Heart Rate through the stimulation of Radiotherapy; A randomized controlled trial’; Dr parasympathetic nervous system by improving Shantaram Shetty on ‘Yoga for cardiovascular baroreceptor sensitivity. In bronchial asthma, yoga diseases—research, facts and program’. helps in improving the pulmonary function tests and frequency of reduce medication use. Yoga and In track ‘B’ Yoga for Healthy Living and Aging at SN meditation helps in delaying the aging process by Hall, Dr P.B. Behere, Dr G. K. Chaturvedi, Principal,

72 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Morarji Desai Institute of Naturopathy & Yogic On second day Dec. 7th Keynote Address session Sciences, Vadodara; Dr Pooja Maddela, Senior was Chaired by Shri Gambhir Watts, Shri Kanchi Doctor & Tutor, Wellpark College of Natural Raghuram. Keynotes Address on ‘Yoga: a TREAT Therapies, Auckland, NZ Chaired the Session. rather than TREATMENT’ was delivered by Dr Distinguished speakers Dr Kamakhya Kumar, Chief Ramesh Bijlani and ‘Yoga for HEALTHY and HAPPY Coordinator: Yoga-Arogya Polyclinic, School of living’ by Smt Hansaji J. Yogendra. Guest lectures Yoga and Health, DSVV, Haridwar spoke on ‘Stress on Yoga and related topics at Auditorium between Free Life through Yoga Nidra’; Dr Dalia Biswas, 11.30 AM to 1.30 PM was Chaired by Dr Arti Prasad, Professor & Head, Dept. of Physiology, JNMC, Dr Vadiraja and eminent speakers were Dr Pooja Sawangi (M), Wardha on ‘Role of yoga in mental Madella spoke on ‘Yoga the therapeutic life style health’; Shri Kanchi Raghuram, State Coordinator, management’; Dr V. Chauvan on ‘Yoga, the science of AP Pyramid Societies, Tirupati on ‘ANA-PANA-SATI’ joyful living’. Dr Indu Arora delivered lecture on Meditation for Healthy & Happy Living; Dr Prafulla N. ‘Chakra meditation with Mudra and Mantra’ nicely Ronghe on ‘Yogic concept of health and disease’; Dr with demonstration. T.S. Ramakrishna, Founder & Secretary, ESWARA, Hyderabad on ‘The impact of Food and ‘Lifestyle’ on A scientific panel discussion on life time experience performance-suggestions based on Gita and Patanjali in Yoga, Meditation and Nature cure leads and Yoga Sutra’; Dr T.N. Sathyaprabha, Additional areas for intensive clinical research. Smt Hansaji Professor, Neurophysiology & In-Charge, was the Moderator while Dr R.V. Nisal, Ms. Matra Autonomic Lab., NIMHANS, Bangalore on Mujmundar, Dr Ramesh Bijlani, Shri Gambhir Watts, ‘Neurophysiological studies of Yoga in health and Dr O.P. Gupta were the panelists. diseases’ and Keynotes Address was given on ‘Yoga for LIFESTYLE related problems’ by Dr Shirley Telles, At Valedictory function Smt Hansaji was the Chief Director of Research, Patanjali Yogpeeth, Haridwar. Guest, Dr (Mrs) P. Narang, Secretary, KHS presided over the function. Amongst other dignitaries on Special Scientific session was held at Anatomy hall the dais who graced the occasion were Dr B.S. between 2.30 to 4.00 PM on Naturopathy, Yoga, Garg, Dean, MGIMS, Dr B.C. Harinath, Organizing Meditation an integrative therapy for prevention Chairman, Dr T. Karthickeyan and Dr Amrish and disease management. Dr Babu Joseph, Director, Saxena briefed about essence of the symposium. National Institute of Naturopathy, Pune and Dr P. Appreciative feedback was given by some members Saranyan chaired the session. Dr Arti Prasad, from audience. Founder & Executive Director, UNM Center for Life, UNM School of Medicine, New Mexico, USA Guest speakers and participants made the delivered lecture on ‘Integrative Medicine Movement following Resolution which was discussed and and Yoga Therapy in the US’ and explained the submitted to the Organizing Committee for the emergence of integrative medicine and the role of submission to Honorable Health Ministry; academic health centers. Ms. Matra Majmundar, Consultant, Rehabilitation Stroke Research Center, Palo Alto, CA, USA explained nicely on ‘Integrating Yoga into Rehabilitation: A Psycho Neuro Immunological Approach (PNI)’.

At 4.30 pm formal Inaugural function was held in the Auditorium. Dr H.R Nagendra was the chief Guest and Smt Hansaji, Shri Gambhir Watts were the Guests of Honor and Shri Dhiru S. Mehta, President, KHS presided over the function. Amongst other dignitaries on the dais who graced the occasion was Dr (Mrs) P. Narang, Secretary, KHS; Dr B.S. Garg, Dean, MGIMS; Dr B.C. Harinath, Organizing Chairman and Director, JBTDRC & Coordinator, Arogyadham & BIC; and Organizing Secretaries Dr T. Karthickeyan, & Dr Amrish Saxena. The program started with Puja and garlanding of portraits of Bapuji & Ba and Dr Shushila Nayar. Dr B.C. Harinath welcomed the audience and gave introduction, about the theme of YOGism and CME and requested the experts and scientists to come out with the protocol of therapy at what level it can be primary intervention and when it can be complementary which is the need of hour at the special place Sevagram and for the welfare of Universe. Program ended with vote of thanks by Dr T. Karthickeyan.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 73 Ashram (Bapu Kutir), Vinoba Bhave Ashram at Paonar, Gitai Mandir, Gopuri etc.

This symposium as platform for eminent speakers and experts in Yoga, Naturopathy and Modern Medicine gave audience good interaction and intellectual sharing. Every one congratulated the organizers on the success of the big event on YOGism.

Resolution

Two day International Symposium has successfully organized on ‘YOGism for Healthy & Happy Living and Aging’ on 6th & 7th December 2010 at Arogyadham, Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Sevagram, Dist. Wardha Cosponsored by CCRYN, New Delhi and supported by KHS, ICMR, MCI, CSIR & DST. 107 Delegates and 32 Guest Speakers and Eminent Scientists, Doctors and Yogis attended from all over India and have exchanged their views and knowledge through presentations and discussions. On this grand occasion the following resolutions have been passed unanimously by all. 1. There has been a very good yoga and health awareness among the people in cities. If we want to make our nation healthy and strong we should follow our age old long tradition, heritage and culture of Yoga. It is felt that the knowledge should reach the rural people. This will help to promote and maintain their health as well as to prevent diseases. To implement this we resolve to establish Naturopathy & Yoga section attached to every primary health care centre which will run the yoga activity and assist to improve quality of their life. For the same purpose we propose that one male and one female Yoga / Naturopathy expert / therapists be appointed at this centre.

2. In order to make the Yoga knowledge available to all types of students who want to achieve higher Secretary, AYUSH; Director General, ICMR and education in yoga, we propose that a separate Director, CCRYN, proposing that Yoga and Yoga department should be started in each and Naturopathy basic knowledge has to be taught to every University. This will include the research medical students at UG and PG level, and to start and training facilities also. separate Yoga department in each and every University for promotion of research, training and 3. In order to make our doctors aware of principles, higher education program in Yoga. Program ended therapy and applications of Yoga and with the Vote of Thanks by Dr Amrish Saxena. Naturopathy as preventive and complimentary medicines, it is proposed that topics related to Along with different interesting intellectual sessions, Yoga namely Yoga in promotion of positive health, nutritious natural dishes were served such as Fresh preventive medicine, therapy and integrative juices (Amla, Ambadi, lime etc) and fruits in medicine be included in medical curriculum for morning, Iddli burgers, stuffed tomato, raw and undergraduate and post graduate students. steamed sprouts, Groundnut’s buttermilk, Healthy herbal tea etc. Participants enjoyed the dishes. Dr Amrish Saxena & Dr T. Karthickeyan Organizing Secretary On 6th evening cultural program in which both classical and folk dances were performed by Nrutya Report on International Symposium on YOGism Nupur Dance Academy (Arengetram) students, for Healthy & Happy Living & Aging held on Wardha. Field trip was arranged for speakers and December 6-7, 2010 at Arogyadham, JBTDRC, participants to the special historical places Gandhi MGIMS, Sevagram (Wardha), India

74 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Sydney Festival was originally conceived by the The Festival has a history of presenting Australian Sydney Committee, the NSW State Government premieres and many of Australia’s most memorable and the City of Sydney with a view to attracting productions such as Cloudstreet have resulted people into the city centre during the holiday from Sydney Festival’s commitment to nurture local month of January. artists. It has brought many of the world’s great artists to Sydney. The first Festival took place in 1977 and it has since grown to become one of Australia’s largest annual Sydney Festival attracts an audience of cultural celebrations with an international approximately 1 million people across all of its reputation for modern, popular and intelligent events, making it the most attended cultural event programming. In many ways it is probably still best in Australia. understood as a celebration of Sydney and its style and energy reflect the confidence, diversity and Source: http://www.sydneyfestival.org.au vigour of one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

For three weeks each January the Festival offers a rich program of around 80 events involving upwards of 500 artists from Australia and abroad covering dance, theatre, music, visual arts, cross media and forums. In any given year, it makes use of most of the main theatres across the city including Sydney Theatre, CarriageWorks, the Seymour Centre, City Recital Hall and venues at the Sydney Opera House.

Sydney Festival also presents a number of quality, free outdoor events such as the long-running Festival in the Domain with free concerts, each attracting up to 100,000 people. In 2008 the Festival introduced a new opening event, Festival First Night, which sees the city streets transformed into a series of free stages and precincts. 300,000 people enjoyed Festival First Night in January 2009.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 75 Salute to Global Organization of People of Indian Origin Awardees

GOPIO HONOR ROLL 2011 Affairs (MOIA) from the PMO. He has been interacting with GOPIO officials as well as other GOPIO has inducted several political leaders, NRI/PIO groups on a regular basis. academics and intellectuals from around the world in its Honor Roll for their exemplary service to GOPIO COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS 2011 India and/or for their support of NRI/PIO causes. They include former President late K.R. Narayanan, Recognition for Services to the Diaspora Awardees former Prime Minister Inder K. Gujral, the late Dr. selected from many nominations received from L.M. Singhvi, former Fiji Prime Minister Mahendra various countries Chaudhry, former Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Basdeo Panday, Lord Bhikhu Parekh, Lord Mr. Gambhir Watts (Australia) Navnit Dholakia. This year, GOPIO is pleased to induct India’s top bureaucrat Mr. T.K.A. Nair. Gambhir Watts is Executive Chairman since July 2003 for Australia Chapters of Bharatiya Vidya Shri T.K.A. Nair, IAS Bhavan; Commissioner, Community Relations Commission for a Multicultural NSW and Chairman Serving as Principal Secretary, Prime Minister’ s of Northern Regional Advisory Council 2006-2009; Office (PMO), Mr. Nair has the distinction of Founder Patron of Priyadarshni Academy Bombay serving three Prime Ministers, Mr. I.K. Gujral, Mr. India honoring high achievers in various social, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and currently Dr. Manmohan cultural and art related fields all over the world; a Singh. Before joining as Principal Secretary at the Director of Advocacy for Inclusion Australia (an PMO, Mr. Nair served as Chairman of Public NGO for Disability). Since its launch on 30 August Enterprise Selection Board. An Indian 2003 Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Australia has Administrative Service officer who retired in 1997, undertaken a large number of activities related to Nair was Secretary to the then Prime Minister I.K. Indian culture and promoting multiculturalism in Gujral. Later he served as Secretary to Prime Australia; publish the prestigious monthly Minister Vajpayee. magazine Bhavan Australia since 2004 and Bhavan’s Weekly eNews since August 2008 and Mr. Nair has been providing support for many new have established alliances with a host of NGOs and initiatives from the Ministry of Overseas Indian Community Organisations.

76 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Gambhir Watts accomplished: introduction of daily friends in 1984. Over 400 outstanding students have Hindi News on SBS TV (Australian government received this award and a very distinguished funded multicultural TV Channel) and additional people in the world, including Dr. Jonas Salk, Pundit Hindi programs on SBS TV and Radio; installation of Ravi Shankar, Indian Ambassadors to the United first ever Mahatma Gandhi bust in New South Wales States, United States Congressmen and Women, at the University of New South Wales jointly with leading industrialist and Ganhiji’s grandsons Raj the Consul General of India; introduction of first Mohan Gandhi and Arun Gandhi, have delivered ever Premier’s Awards for the Indian sub-continent the Mahatma Gandhi memorial lecture. The society communities, New South Wales. has also funded over 20 projects in India benefiting the states of Bihar, Maharashtra, Orissa, Tamil Among various annual events introduced by Nadu and various organizations in the San Diego. Gambhir Watts for Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Australia some of the prominent events include; SPECIAL RECOGNITION Holi Mahotsav in Darling Harbour which has become a major Australian festival; International Prof. Prabhat Jha, MD, DPhil (Canada) Day of Non Violence (Commemorating Mahatma Gandhi’ s birth Anniversary), Interfaith prayer Professor Prabhat Jha is a world-renowned meeting on 30 January at Hyde Park / Parliament scientist and author who has worked tirelessly to House NSW, Sydney, World Culture Concert & Arts improve the health and quality of life of resident Festival at Sydney Town Hall, supported by City of Indians. He recognized that since almost all deaths Sydney; Hindi Divas at Parliament House NSW. in India did not have medical documentation or assigned causes of deaths, governments and Prof. M.C. Madhavan (USA) individuals did not have the necessary information to plan effective healthcare initiatives in the Professor M.C. Madhavan’s contribution to civic country or for individuals to know their own risk of society organizations is significant. He may perhaps premature disease. He understood that millions of be remembered for a long time for founding the San Indians would continue to die needlessly unless Diego Indian American Society to establish there was a revolution in the way health Mahatma Gandhi Scholarship and Mahatma Gandhi information was collected. Thus, in collaboration Memorial Lecture program with the support of his with the Registrar General of India, Professor Jha

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 77 started the Million Death Study in 2001. Partly and Haryana CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda funded by grants from the National Institutes of Health and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, GOPIO Awards presented at the Ashok Hotel Annual this ongoing study will quantify the causes of Convention in New Delhi on January 6, 2011. deaths in over 1 million homes in India from 1997- 2014. Results from the study have already Gambhir Watts, Executive Chairman, Bharatiya demonstrated that India has over 1 million deaths Vidya Bhavan Australia honoured by Various each year from smoking (10% of all deaths; New International Organisations England Journal of Medicine, 2008), and fewer 1. Community Service Award by GOPIO (Global deaths from HIV than expected (British Med Organisation of Persons of Indian Origin), based Journal, 2009), but many more malaria deaths than in Los Angeles and New York USA. About 2-3 expected (about 0.2 million; Lancet 2010). He has years ago Mr Jayraman, then Director of also documented that the major causes of child Bhavan’s New York Centre was honoured with deaths in the country are avoidable (Lancet, 2010). this award. Gambhir Watts was honoured with Future studies from the Million Death Study will the Community Service Award. The award continue to shape the direction for India’s health. ceremony was held on 6 January at 7:00 pm at Ashoka Hotel and the Chief Guest was Hon GUESTS OF HONOR Vayalar Ravi, Minister, MOIA (Ministry of Ministry for Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA) Overseas Indians). Minister Shri Vayalar Ravi, Delhi CM Shiela Dixit 2. Bharat Guarav Award and a Certificate of Excellence at the Global Friendship Day, the Annual Ceremony Day of India International Friendship Society. The award ceremony was held on 6 January at 6:30 pm at Le Meridien Hotel and the Guest of Honour was Hon. Pawan Kumar Bansal, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs. Other special guests included were: Hon. Sheila Dixit, Chief Minister of Delhi, Hon. Baroness Sandeep Verma, Minister in Waiting, Govt of UK, Ms Ruby Dhalla, MP Canada, Mr Oscar Fernandes MP and Dr Bhagwan Shani NRI from USA. Some of the past recipients of this honour include: Late Mother Teresa, Noble Laureate; Late B.D. Jatti, former Vice President of India; Dr. Bishma Narain

78 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Singh, former Governor; Digmabr Kamat, CM of Goa; Cricketer Sunil Gavaskar, Veteran Actors Shammi Kapoor, Rajesh Khanna, Dev Anand.

3. Sardar Ratna Award for “Excellence in Globalisation of Sardar’s Ideology & Social Development” by Sardar Vallbhbhai Patel Foundation, based in Delhi. The award ceremony was held on 17 January at 5:00 pm at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan (Multipurpose Hall), New Delhi and the Chief Guest was Hon. His Excellency Balmiki Prasad Singh, Governor of Sikkim. Some of the past recipients of this honour include: Shri Dinsha J. Patel, Minister Government of India; Capt. Mike Patel, United Kingdom; Pravin Aamin, United Kingdom; Shri Ashok J. Patel, India.

From Inder Singh, Chairman, GOPIO (Global Organization of People of Indian Origin) International (USA)

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 79 Subhas Chandra Bose

Subhas Chandra Bose was the most visionary and influenced by Swami Vivekananda’s teachings and fierce activist in the pre-independence era. was known for his patriotic zeal as a student. To Affectionately called as Netaji, he was one of the fulfill his parents’ wishes he went to England in most prominent leaders of Indian freedom struggle. 1919 to compete for Indian Civil Services. In The contribution of Subhas Chandra Bose is no less England he appeared for the Indian Civil Service but he has been denied his rightful place in the competitive examination in 1920, and came out annals of Indian history. He founded Indian fourth in order of merit. However, Subhas Chandra National Army (Azad Hind Fauj) to overthrow Bose was deeply disturbed by the Jallianwalla Bagh British Empire from India and came to acquire massacre, and left his Civil Services apprenticeship legendary status among Indian masses. midway to return to India in 1921.

Early Life Mahatma Gandhi

Subhas Chandra Bose was born on January 23, 1897 After returning to India Netaji Subhash Chandra in Cuttack, Orissa. His father Janaki Nath Bose was Bose came under the influence of Mahatma Gandhi a famous lawyer and his mother Prabhavati Devi and joined the Indian National Congress. On was a pious and religious lady. Subhas Chandra Gandhiji’s instructions, he started working under Bose was the ninth child among fourteen siblings. Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das, whom he later Subhas Chandra Bose was a brilliant student right acknowledged his political guru. Soon he showed from the childhood. He topped the matriculation his leadership mettle and gained his way up in the examination of Calcutta province and graduated Congress’ hierarchy. In 1928 the Motilal Nehru with a First Class in Philosophy from the Scottish Committee appointed by the Congress declared in Churches College in Calcutta. He was strongly favour of Domination Status, but Subhas Chandra

80 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Bose along with Jawaharlal Nehru opposed it, and quarters was shifted to Rangoon in January 1944. both asserted that they would be satisfied with Azad Hind Fauj crossed the Burma Border, and nothing short of complete independence for India. stood on Indian soil on March 18, 1944. Subhas also announced the formation of the Independence League. Subhas Chandra Bose was Death jailed during Civil Disobedience movement in 1930. He was released in 1931 after Gandhi-Irwin pact was Bose is supposed to have died in a plane crash signed. He protested against the Gandhi-Irwin pact over Taiwan while flying to Tokyo. However, his and opposed the suspension of Civil Disobedience body was never recovered, and conspiracy theories movement especially when Bhagat Singh and his concerning his possible survival abound. One such associates were hanged. claims that Bose actually died in Siberia, while in Soviet captivity. Taiwan Government clarified that Europe Bose could not have died in a plane crash in the country, stating that there “were no plane crashes Subash Chandra Bose was soon arrested again at Taipei between 14 August and 20 September under the infamous Bengal Regulation. After a 1945.” Despite this testimony three separate Indian period of one year he was released on medical government investigations have concluded that grounds and was banished from India to Europe. He Bose died in the plane crash. Accordingly he was took steps to establish centres in different killed in an air crash over Taipeh, Taiwan European capitals with a view to promoting (Formosa) on August 18, 1945. politico-cultural contacts between India and Europe. Defying the ban on his entry to India, Source: www.iloveindia.com, Subash Chandra Bose returned to India and was http://profiles.incredible-people.com again arrested and jailed for a year. After the General Elections of 1937, Congress came to power in seven states and Subash Chandra Bose was released. Shortly afterwards he was elected President of the Haripura Congress Session in 1938. During his term as Congress President, he talked of planning in concrete terms, and set up a National planning Committee in October that year. At the end of his first term, the Presidential election to the Tripuri Congress session took place early 1939. Subhas Chandra Bose was re-elected. Clouds of World War II were on the horizon and he brought a resolution to give the British six months to hand India over to the Indians, failing which there would be a revolt. There was much opposition to his rigid stand, and he resigned from the post of President and formed a progressive group known as the Forward Block.

Subhas Chandra Bose now started a mass movement against utilizing Indian resources and men for the great war. There was a tremendous response to his call and he was put under house arrest in Calcutta. In January 1941, Subhas Chandra Bose disappeared from his home in Calcutta and reached Germany via Afghanistan. Working on the maxim that “an enemy’s enemy is a friend”, he sought cooperation of Germany and Japan against British Empire. In January 1942, he began his regular broadcasts from Radio Berlin, which aroused tremendous enthusiasm in India. In July 1943, he arrived in Singapore from Germany. In Singapore he took over the reins of the Indian Independence Movement in East Asia from Rash Behari Bose and organised the Azad Hind Fauj (Indian National Army) comprising mainly of Indian prisoners of war. He was hailed as Netaji by the Army as well as by the Indian civilian population in East Asia. Azad Hind Fauj proceeded towards India to liberate it from British rule. Enroute it liberated Andeman and Nicobar Islands. The I.N.A. Head

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 81 Swami Vivekananda Jayanti

Swami Vivekananda Jayanti celebrates the birthday of Swami Vivekananda. His birthday falls on the Paush Krishna Saptami, the 7th day after the full moon day in the Hindu month of Paush. Therefore the date varies from year to year. In 2011, the date of the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda is on January 26 as per traditional Hindu calendar. According to the English calendar or the generally used Indian Calendar, Swami Vivekananda was born on January 12, 1863.

Sanatana Dharma

Saints of Sanatana Dharma never sought blind followers. Their sole aim was to initiate a discussion on a particular topic. They wanted each Early Life individual to arrive at a conclusion through a healthy debate and contemplation. They wanted After his matriculation, Narendra went to college. each individual to realize his/her potential. Swami He was rarely absent from social parties. He was Vivekananda was one such modern saint who the “soul of social circles” and no gathering was kindled the passion of search for knowledge in the deemed complete without his presence. mind of people. One day, his neighbour received a surprise visit The ideal way or remember or honour a saint is by from the saint of Dakshineshwar, Sri Ramakrishna. understanding his/her teachings. Swami Narendra was also invited to sing devotional songs. Vivekananda has given his valuable thoughts to the As he sang, he sent thrill after thrill through Sri people. They must pick up these pearls of wisdom Ramakrishna until the saint fell into a state of and contemplate applying it in their daily life. This ecstasy. When he became normal again, he made can be done not just on his birthday but on all days Narendra sit beside him and enquired lovingly of of the year. the boy. With time their friendship grew.

The Saint The death of his father forced Narendra to find work and support the family. During these years of This illustrious patriot-saint of modern India was great struggle, his sheet anchor was his Guru, Sri born in Calcutta and named as Narendra. His father, Ramakrishna. Narendra yearned intensely for God Viswanath Datta, was a brilliant lawyer. He was and began to plague the Master for realisation. highly respected for his intelligence and culture. His mother, Devi Bhuvaneshwari, was a devout woman Narendra, now known as Swami Vivekananda, with a great ability for training her children. As a founded an Ashram near Calcutta, in order to boy, Narendra was very naughty and self-willed, and organise better the Master’s mission. This was the often had to be placed under a water tap to curb his beginning of the Ramakrishna Mission. From 1888 mischief. Nevertheless, he was very generous, to 1890 Swami Vivekananda travelled widely. He loving and devoted, with a strange attraction for went on a pilgrimage all over the country, studying wandering Sadhus. He enjoyed doing worship of the conditions of the people. Wherever he went, his Lord Rama and Lord Krishna along with his mother. magnetic personality created a great impression.

82 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 World Parliament of Religions

In 1893, Swami Vivekananda went to America to attend the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago. His powerful speech at the opening session of the Parliament brought him instant fame and acclaimed him as a great orator and the most ideal interpreter of India’s wisdom. He instantly became very popular in America.

Swami Vivekananda’s powerful personality and his passionate call of service of the poor, is still influencing people all over India and the world. Swami Vivekananda arrived in America penniless and depending only on God’s Grace. After the Parliament he began to receive the homage and hospitality of all America. He lectured at all the important centres. As a true Sannyasi he refused to sell religion for the sake of amassing money. He preached the gospel of unity of faiths and scattered the seeds of purity, knowledge and faith. After his stay of two years in America he toured England and Europe for three months.

The tremendous ovation he received on his return to India in no way took his mind away from his mission of bringing religion to the doors of the poorest. His aim was to awaken the masses by reviving Vedic religion, and to clean it of the dross and impurity that had clung to it for so many centuries.

Mahasamadhi High Commission of India In 1902 Swami Vivekananda entered Mahasamadhi. Six years of discipleship under Sri Ramakrishna had Canberra taken him to the realms of God-vision. Seven years of travelling in India had broadened his outlook on life. Nine years of a national and international career PRESS RELEASE were all that were left for him; yet, how filled with glorious work those nine years were! On 13th January, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh wrote to Prime Minister Swami Vivekananda’s gospel was one of hope, faith Julia Gillard and External Affairs Minister and strength. He never succumbed to despair, for Shri S.M. Krishna to Foreign Minister Kevin he knew that India was capable of expansion and Rudd, expressing their deep sorrow on the growth. His clarion call to the nation was: “Awake, tragic loss of life and property in the wake arise, and stop not till the goal is reached.” of the floods in Queensland. Celebrations On behalf of the people of India and on On the day of Vivekananda Jayanti several programs their own behalf, they conveyed heartfelt are held in Ramakrishna Maths all over India. condolences to the bereaved families, and Numerous programs are organized in India and in for the extensive loss of property and several countries around the world on the day. material damage. They said that India Seminars are conducted and discourses are given on stood in solidarity with the people of the life and teachings of Swami Vivekananda. Youth Australia and expressed India's readiness preaching is done by spreading Swamiji’s message to to assist Australia with support and them. Books are distributed and Bhajans honouring logistical assistance, if required. Swamiji are sung. People of all rungs of society They conveyed that their thoughts and participate with great enthusiasm. prayers were with the people of Australia Source: www.sivanandadlshq.org, in these difficult times. http://in.ygoy.com 14th January 2011

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 83 The Dissident and the Mahatma

New Delhi: With the Nobel Peace Prize presented The case for Gandhi-led global change rests this month in the absence of this year’s laureate, principally on the American civil-rights leader the imprisoned Chinese dissident Liu Xiaobo, it Martin Luther King, Jr., who attended a lecture on might be wise to think of a man who never won the Gandhi, bought a half-dozen books about the prize: Mahatma Gandhi. Despite that omission, Mahatma, and adopted Satyagraha as both precept there is no doubting Gandhiji’s worldwide and method. In leading the struggle to break down significance—including for Liu. segregation in the southern United States, King used non-violence more effectively than anyone The Mahatma’s image now features in advertising else outside India. “Hate begets hate. Violence campaigns for everything from Apple computers to begets violence,” he memorably declared. “We Mont Blanc pens. When Richard Attenborough’s must meet the forces of hate with soul force.” film Gandhi swept the Oscars in 1983, posters for the film proclaimed that “Gandhi’s triumph King later avowed that “the Gandhian method of changed the world forever.” But did it? non-violent resistance...became the guiding light of

84 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 our movement. Christ furnished the spirit and border terrorism to which the Mahatma’s only motivation, and Gandhi furnished the method.” answer—a fast in protest—would have left its Last month, Barack Obama told India’s Parliament perpetrators unmoved. that were it not for Gandhi, he would not be standing there as America’s President. In his internationalism, the Mahatma expressed ideals that few can reject. But the decades since his So, yes, Gandhism helped to change America death have confirmed that there is no escaping the forever. But it is difficult to find many other conflicting sovereignties of states. Some 20 million instances of its success. India’s independence lives have been lost in wars and insurrections since marked the dawn of the era of decolonization, but Gandhi died. In a dismaying number of countries, many nations threw off the yoke of empire only including his own, India, governments spend more after bloody and violent struggles. Other peoples for military purposes than for education and health have since fallen under the boots of invading care combined. The current stockpile of nuclear armies, been dispossessed of their lands, or weapons represents more than a million times the terrorized into fleeing their homes. Non-violence explosive power of the bomb whose destruction of has offered no solutions to them. Hiroshima so grieved him.

Indeed, non-violence could only work against Outside India, as within it, Gandhian techniques opponents vulnerable to a loss of moral have been perverted by terrorists and bomb- authority—that is, governments responsive to throwers who declare hunger strikes when domestic and international public opinion, and punished for their crimes. Gandhism without moral thus capable of being shamed into conceding authority is like Marxism without a proletariat. Yet defeat. In Gandhi’s own time, non-violence could too few who have tried his methods worldwide have done nothing to prevent the slaughter of Jews have had his personal integrity or moral stature. in Hitler’s path. None of these misguided or cynical efforts has The power of Gandhian non-violence rests in being diluted Gandhi’s greatness, or the extraordinary able to say, “To show you that you are wrong, I resonance of his life and his message. While the punish myself.” But that has little effect on those world was disintegrating into fascism, violence, and who are not interested in whether they are wrong war, the Mahatma taught the virtues of truth, non- and are already seeking to punish you. Your violence, and peace. He destroyed the credibility of willingness to undergo punishment merely colonialism by opposing principle to force. And he expedites their victory. No wonder Nelson set and attained personal standards of conviction Mandela, who told me that Gandhi had “always and courage that few will ever match. He was that been a great source of inspiration,” explicitly rare kind of leader who was not confined by his disavowed non-violence as ineffective in South followers’ inadequacies. Africans’ struggle against apartheid. Yet Gandhi’s truth was essentially his own. He Indeed, Gandhi can sound frighteningly unrealistic: formulated its unique content and determined its “The willing sacrifice of the innocent is the most application in a specific historical context. powerful answer to insolent tyranny that has yet been Inevitably, few in today’s world can measure up to conceived by God or man. Disobedience, to be ‘civil,’ his greatness or aspire to his credo. must be sincere, respectful, restrained, never defiant, and it must have no ill will or hatred behind it. Neither The originality of Gandhi’s thought and the should there be excitement in civil disobedience, example of his life still inspire people around the which is a preparation for mute suffering.” world today—as Liu Xiaobo would readily admit. But his triumph did not “change the world forever.” For many around the world who suffer under I wonder if the Mahatma, surveying today’s world, oppressive regimes, such a credo would sound like a would feel that he had triumphed at all. prescription for sainthood—or for impotence. Mute suffering is fine as a moral principle, but only Gandhi Shashi Tharoor could use it to bring about meaningful change. Shashi Tharoor, a former The sad truth is that the staying power of Indian Minister of State for organized violence is almost always greater than External Affairs and UN that of non-violence. Gandhi believed in “weaning Under-Secretary General, an opponent from error by patience, sympathy, and is a member of India’s self-suffering.” But, while such an approach may Parliament and the have won Burma’s Aung San Suu Kyi the Nobel that Author of several books, eluded the Mahatma himself, the violence of the including, most recently, Burmese state proved far stronger in preventing Nehru: the Invention of change than her suffering has in fomenting it. And, India (in German). as the Mumbai terror attacks of November 2008 demonstrated, India today faces the threat of cross- Copyright: Project Syndicate, 2010 Source: www.project-syndicate.org

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 85 Guru Har Rai Sahib

Guru Har Rai Ji was the seventh Guru of the Sikhs. He Shikoh fell seriously ill by some unknown disease. was God in the form of a human. Guru Har Rai Ji was The best physicians available in the country and born at Kiratpur in 1630. His father was Baba Gurditta abroad were consulted, but there was no and mother Mata Nihal Kaur. At birth his name was improvement. At last the Emperor made a humble Bhai Har Rai. Bhai Har Rai was from Guru Hargobind request to Guru Sahib for the treatment of his son. Sahib Ji’s family. Baba Gurditta, Bhai Har Rai’s father, Guru Sahib accepting the request, handed over was the eldest son of Guru Hargobind Sahib Ji. some rare and suitable medicines to the messenger of the Emperor. The life of Dara Shikoh was saved Guru Hargobind Sahib, before his departure for from the cruel jaws of death. The Emperor, whole heavenly abode, nominated his grandson, Har Rai Ji heartily thanked and wanted to grant some “Jagir”, at the tender age of 14, as his successor (Seventh but Guru Sahib never accepted. Nanak), on 3rd March, 1644. Guru Har Rai Sahib got married to Mata Kishan Kaur Ji (Sulakhni Ji) Mohamad Yarbeg Khan daughter of Sri Daya Ram Ji of Anoopshahr (Bulandshahr) in Uttar Pradesh on Har Sudi 3, Once Guru Sahib was coming back from the tour of Samvat 1697. Guru Har Rai Sahib had two sons: Sri Malwa and Doaba regions, Mohamad Yarbeg Khan, Ram Rai Ji and Sri Har Krishan Sahib Ji (Guru). (son of Mukhlis Khan, who was killed by Guru Hargobind Sahib in a battle) attacked the kafila of Guru Sahib with the force of one thousand armed men. The unwarranted attack was repulsed by a few hundred Saint Soldiers of Guru Sahib with great “He was God in the courage and bravery. The enemy suffered a heavy loss of life and fled the scene. Guru Sahib often form of a human.” awarded various Sikh warriors with gallantry awards.

Aurangzeb Mughal Empire Emperor Aurangzeb made an excuse for the help Guru Har Rai Sahib was a man of peace but he never rendered to Prince Dara Shakoh by Guru Sahib disbanded or discharged the armed Sikh Warriors during the war of succession and framed false (Saint Soldiers), who earlier were maintained by his charges against Guru Sahib and was summoned to grandfather, Guru Hargobind Sahib. Rather he Delhi. Ram Rai Ji appeared on behalf of Guru Sahib further boosted the military spirit of the Sikhs. But in the court. He tried to clarify some mis- he never himself indulged in any direct political and understandings regarding Guru Ghar and Sikh faith, armed controversy with the contemporary Mughal created by Dhirmals and Minas. Yet another trap, Empire. Once on the request of Dara Shikoh, eldest which he could not escape, was to clarify the son of Emperor Shahjahan, Guru Sahib helped him meaning of the verse “The Ashes of the escape safely from the Aurangzeb’s armed forces Mohammadan fall into the potter’s clot, It is during the war of succession. molded into pots and bricks, and they cry out as they burn”. Guru Sahib established an Aurvedic herbal medicine hospital and a research centre at Kiratpur Ram Rai, in order to please the Emperor and gain Sahib. There, he maintained a zoo also. Once Dara more sympathy replied that the text had been

86 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Manjis

Guru Har Rai Sahib also visited Lahore, Sialkot, Pathankot, Samba, Ramgarh and many places of Jammu and Kashmir region. He established 360 Sikh missionary seats (Manjis). He also tried to improve the old corrupt Masand system and appointed pious and committed personalities like Suthre Shah, Sahiba, Sangtia, Mian Sahib, Bhagat Bhagwan, Bahagat Mal and Jeet Mal Bhagat (Bairagi), as the Heads of Manjis.

Guru Har Rai Sahib faced some serious difficulties during the period of his guruship. The corrupt needlessly corrupted by some ignorant person. The massands, Dhir Mals and Minas always tried to actual meaning of the verse is that the human soul is preclude the advancement of Sikh religion. After not bound to the physical structure or the body of a the death of Shah Jahan, the attitude of the state person. The physical material of the bodies of both headed by Aurangzeb towards the non-muslims, Hindus and Muselmans face the same fate and it is a turned hostile. universal truth. The soul leaves the body immediately after the death and it does not remain in the grave Final Days waiting for doom’s day. And the earth consumes the body-material in due course of time. It is a rational Knowing that the end was near, Guru Har Rai Sahib and scientific view of Sikhism. installed his younger son Har Krishan as the Eighth Nanak and passed away on Kartik Vadi 6th October, 1661 at Kiratpur Sahib.

“He established Source: http://www.sgpc.net, 360 Sikh missionary www.infoaboutsikhs.com seats, Manjis.”

When Guru Har Rai Sahib was informed about this incident, he immediately excommunicated Ram Rai Ji from the Sikh Panth and never met him, though Ram Rai Ji pleaded repeatedly for forgiveness. Thus Guru Sahib established a strict property for the Sikhs against any alteration of original verse in Guru Granth Sahib and the basic conventions set up by Guru Nanak Sahib.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 87 The Emerging- Market Growth Engine

88 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 New Delhi: The key role of emerging and economies, in particular China and the Southeast developing countries—including India, China, and Asian countries, is that domestic demand, rather Brazil—in sustaining world economic growth was than exports, is the primary driver of growth. brought into sharp focus during the recent global crisis, and has been well documented. This trend is A return to high growth rates globally will require a likely to continue in 2011 and beyond. broader revival of demand. Needless to say, this will occur only gradually, particularly in the developed Indeed, the IMF expects that emerging and countries. Thus, India’s high growth rates will have developing economies will grow by 6% in 2010 and to remain dependent on strong domestic demand. In 6.3% in 2011. Emerging-market economies have not order to meet this challenge, we are focusing on only cushioned the global impact of the recent investments in infrastructure sectors such as power, crisis, but have also helped industrialized countries telecommunications, roads, ports, and airports. reverse the recessionary trend of 2008-2009. But recovery remains fragile in the developed world, While the public sector will continue to play an with unemployment remaining at crisis levels. important role, given the massive investment required, substantial private investment—including But, while emerging economies are proving to be foreign investment—would be needed to address drivers of global demand, the right mix of government India’s huge “infrastructure deficit” and the initiatives and policies is still required to ensure that financing gap that accompanies it. A strategy of they continue to provide the impetus for faster world private-public partnership has been adopted to economic recovery in the short term and be the address the infrastructure challenge. At the same engines of sustainable growth in the medium and long time, we need to invest in our human capital, term. There is also a strong need for supporting long- supporting the development and upgrading of the term capital flows to emerging economies to workforce’s skills and capacity for innovation. stimulate investment further, particularly in their infrastructure sectors, thereby injecting much-needed At its summit in Seoul in November, the G-20 firmly additional demand into the global economy. placed development at the core of its agenda. Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, In this regard, another important development is the underlining the importance of infrastructure increasing number of emerging-market middle-class investment, made the following proposal, which consumers, their growing purchasing power, and thus several leaders endorsed: “Recycling surplus their potential impact on global demand. According savings into investment in developing countries to one estimate, middle-class consumers in a dozen will not only address the immediate demand emerging economies today wield annual purchasing imbalance, it will also help to address power totaling approximately $6.9 trillion. developmental imbalances. In other words, we should leverage imbalances of one kind to redress Indeed, projections from McKinsey & Company imbalances of the other kind.” suggest that the purchasing power of this rising middle class in emerging markets may rise to $20 As we head into the second decade of the century, trillion over the next decade—twice the current innovative ideas like using global savings or surpluses level of consumption in the United States. The four to finance infrastructure in emerging and developing biggest emerging economies—Brazil, Russia, India, countries should be pursued seriously. Doing so and China (the BRICs)—are large producers and would not only sustain the growth momentum of consumers of goods and services, and will also be these economies, but would contribute to global important in shaping the pace, direction, and recovery by generating much-needed additional sustainability of global economic growth. demand in the developed countries.

Let me turn to India specifically. In the five years While the emerging economies’ global role will preceding the 2008-2009 crisis, the Indian economy inevitably grow in the coming years, this shift will grew at an average rate of nearly 9% annually. need to be anchored in a cooperative partnership During the crisis, annual growth slowed, but only to with the developed world. As for India, our resilient 6.7%, reflecting the economy’s inherent resilience. democratic values, ability to manage diversity, and The growth rate subsequently recovered to 7.4% in strong economic fundamentals underpin our 2009-2010, and we expect 9% growth by 2011-12. country’s current global posture.

The strength of the Indian economy is underpinned Nirupama Rao by a high saving rate and robust investment. The Nirupama Rao is India’s government’s prompt action to counter the crisis— Foreign Secretary. fiscal stimulus, growth packages, and monetary easing—proved effective. A sound financial and Copyright: Project banking system with limited exposure to global Syndicate, 2010. markets, together with the importance of domestic Source: www.project- consumption in sustaining demand, has also helped. syndicate.org But what distinguishes India from other emerging

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 89 Usman walked in Ponting’s Shoes

Usman Khawaja’s Promising Test debut at the SCG. Usman Tariq Khawaja, 24, is a high flyer, a qualified Having known Usman Khawaja since 2006 when he pilot. Ambitious and ambidextrous (left-hand was a teenager, I felt extremely nervous as he faced batsman, right-arm medium-paced bowler), he was his first ball in Test annals at the Sydney Cricket born in Pakistan and moved to Sydney when three. Ground (SCG) this January 3. My feelings were similar, well almost similar, to his mother’s who He attended many “auditions and rehearsals” prayed with all her heart as Usman played his first before getting a major role in a drama titled “The ball. In fact, all 95 balls in his debut innings! Ashes”. He was in the Australian squad for England in mid-2010 and then was a standby for injured I had to remind myself that it was not Cricket Michael Clarke and Ponting in the previous two Masala organized by Bhavan Australia in 2006 but Ashes Tests. an Ashes Test by Cricket Australia. And Usman (nicknamed Uzi) was replacing an “...an Australian who injured Australian captain, Ricky Ponting, an all time great batsman. Usman’s Test debut was speaks and thinks like an remarkable as he started his batting career with flourish. He appeared a left-handed Ponting, only 12 years younger. Coincidentally, both are born in Australian although a December; Usman on 18th, Ricky on 19th. devout Muslim.” In a Test to forget for Australia who lost the match by an innings and the Ashes 1-3, Usman provided But he got his big chance on the historic SCG, to fill one spark, scoring 37 and 21. Not big scores but he Ponting’s big shoes at no. 3 in his home city, was like a breath of fresh air amid a feeling of doom Sydney. How did he feel, filling in for the champion? and gloom for the beaten and thrashed Australians. Usman said before his debut, “Ricky is a legend of a To the spectators he was an Australian who speaks cricketer, a legend of a bloke… He’s the kind of guy and thinks like an Australian although a devout that if he told me to jump off a bridge I probably Muslim. Many think that he is the first one from the would, I’d follow him anywhere. I’m not here to fill subcontinent to represent Australia in Test cricket. Ricky Ponting’s shoes, I’m going to go out there and This is wrong because Dav Whatmore from Sri Lanka try and do the best I can. To replace 12,000 runs is had represented Australia in seven Tests in 1978-79. a big feat and I still haven’t scored any.”

90 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 And he scored runs in style in the Sydney Test. NSW was on her knees at 4 for 88 against Australian opening batsman Phil Hughes was Queensland in Brisbane when he registered his dismissed on the stroke of lunch. Next man in was maiden first-class century in 2008-09. He followed Usman Khawaja who, I presume, skipped his lunch! this with an unbeaten 172 in the next match against Western Australia. The first ball he faced from tall English pace bowler, Chris Tremlett. It was placed for a comfortable two. The next ball was pulled for a magnificent four. “He has talent What a way to start one’s Test career and the crowd went” Uzi, Uzi, Uzi, oi, oi,oi”! He made 37 and determination, a runs batting with ease but made only one false stroke in poor light and he was out. combination which I had the good fortune of interviewing Usman twice, in 2006 when he was 19, playing in a multinational breeds success.” 6-a-side 5-overs Cricket Masala festival in Bankstown, Sydney and then in 2009 for a national Such single-minded dedication deserves success cricket magazine Inside Cricket. and he is on his way up. Simon Katich is full of praise for ‘Uzi’ Usman. His favourite ground is Coogie Oval where he played first-grade for Randwick-Petersham (R-P). “It So far Usman has scored 2126 runs at 50.61 in 28 beats SCG in scenic views every time!” first-class matches for NSW and Australia with six centuries (highest score 214) and 10 fifties. His Favourite moments—apart from being picked for stylish batting and big scores this season were Australia? Perhaps my first first-class match for behind his much awaited Test call. NSW against Victoria in February 2008 at the SCG when I scored 85 run out. Representing Australia in He has talent and determination, a combination the Under-19 World Cup is another memory I which breeds success. cherish. Also scoring 120 for R-P against North Sydney when I was in my teens and being adjudged Kersi Meher-Homji Player of the Championship in the Interstate Under- 19 competition in 2005. Kersi Meher-Homji is an Australian journalist, author and biographer. Hs most notable Best memory outside cricket? Gee, that’s a hard biography is The Waugh Twins (1998), about one. Umm, finishing my degree in flying; felt so Steve and Mark Waugh. He is of Indian Parsi relieved! descent and the nephew of former cricketer Khershed Meherhomji. Among your best innings? My 172 not out for NSW against Western Australia in a Shield match [in 2008-09]. I hit 22 fours and two sixes which was very satisfying. Also scoring two consecutive double centuries for NSW 2nd XI in 2008; 210 not out against South Australia 2nd XI and 228 against Victoria 2nd XI.

Best bowling spell? When 15, I took four wickets for one run for R-P against Sutherland in a Green Shield Under-16 match.

Batsman you respect most? Simon Katich. He is so good. Everyone respects him. I love his batting and his temperament.

Your hero? Adam Gilchrist. As a boy I used to follow him wherever he played in Sydney. My childhood hero is boxing legend Mohammad Ali.

Your hobby? I play golf, handicap 10.

Usman Khawaja arrived on the big scene last season when he hit three centuries for NSW in Sheffield Shield. Following his 554 runs (with two centuries) in 2008-09 in Shield matches, he exceeded all expectations when amassing 698 runs hitting three hundreds in 2009-10.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 91 What lies ahead in 2011?

New York: The global economy ends 2010 more The outcome of premature fiscal consolidation is divided than it was at the beginning of the year. On all but foretold: growth will slow, tax revenues will one side, emerging-market countries like India, China, diminish, and the reduction in deficits will be and the Southeast Asian economies, are experiencing disappointing. And, in our globally integrated robust growth. On the other side, Europe and the world, the slowdown in Europe will exacerbate the United States face stagnation—indeed, a Japanese- slowdown in the US, and vice versa. style malaise—and stubbornly high unemployment. The problem in the advanced countries is not a With the US able to borrow at record-low interest jobless recovery, but an anemic recovery—or worse, rates, and with the promise of high returns on the possibility of a double-dip recession. public investments after a decade of neglect, it is clear what it should do. A large-scale public- This two-track world poses some unusual risks. investment program would stimulate employment While Asia’s economic output is too small to pull in the short term, and growth in the long term, up growth in the rest of the world, it may be leading in the end to a lower national debt. But enough to push up commodity prices. financial markets demonstrated their shortsightedness in the years preceding the crisis, Meanwhile, US efforts to stimulate its economy and are doing so once again, by applying pressure through the Federal Reserve’s policy of “quantitative for spending cuts, even if that implies reducing easing” may backfire. After all, in globalized financial badly needed public investments. markets, money looks for the best prospects around the world, and these prospects are in Asia, not the Moreover, political gridlock will ensure that little is US. So the money won’t go where it’s needed, and done about the other festering problems much of it will wind up where it’s not wanted— confronting the American economy: mortgage causing further increases in asset and commodity foreclosures are likely to continue unabated (legal prices, especially in emerging markets. complications aside); small and medium-sized enterprises are likely to continue to be starved of Given the high levels of excess capacity and funds; and the small and medium-sized banks that unemployment in Europe and America, quantitative traditionally provide them with credit are likely to easing is unlikely to trigger a bout of inflation. It continue to struggle to survive. could, however, increase anxieties about future inflation, leading to higher long-term interest In Europe, meanwhile, matters are unlikely to be rates—precisely the opposite of the Fed’s goal. any better. Europe has finally managed to come to the rescue of Greece and Ireland. In the run up to This is not the only, or even the most important, the crisis, both were governed by right-wing downside risk facing the global economy. The governments marked by crony capitalism or worse, gravest threat comes from the wave of austerity demonstrating once again that free-market sweeping the world, as governments, particularly economics didn’t work in Europe any better than it in Europe, confront the large deficits brought on by did in the US. the Great Recession, and as anxieties about some countries’ ability to meet their debt payments In Greece, as in the US, a new government was left contributes to financial-market instability. to clean up the mess. The Irish government that

92 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 encouraged reckless bank lending and the creation different interests and perspectives are pulling in of a property bubble was, perhaps not surprisingly, different directions, without enough solidarity to no more adept in managing the economy after the compensate. The bailout packages are, in this light, crisis that it was before. impressive achievements.

Politics aside, property bubbles leave in their wake a In both Europe and America, the free-market legacy of debt and excess capacity in real estate that ideology that allowed asset bubbles to grow is not easily rectified—especially when politically unfettered—markets always know best, so connected banks resist restructuring mortgages. government must not intervene—now ties policymakers’ hands in designing effective To me, attempting to discern the economic responses to the crisis. One might have thought prospects for 2011 is not a particularly interesting that the crisis itself would undermine confidence in question: the answer is bleak, with little upside that ideology. Instead, it has resurfaced to drag potential and a lot of downside risk. More governments and economies down the sinkhole of importantly, how long will it take Europe and austerity. America to recover, and can Asia’s seemingly export-dependent economies continue to grow if If politics is the problem in Europe and America, their historical markets languish? only political changes are likely to restore them to growth. Or else they can wait until the overhang of My best bet is that these countries will maintain excess capacity diminishes, capital goods become rapid growth as they shift their economic focus to obsolete, and the economy’s internal restorative their vast and untapped domestic markets. This forces work their gradual magic. Either way, victory will require considerable restructuring of their is not around the corner. economies, but China and India are both dynamic, and proved their resilience in their response to the Joseph Stiglitz Great Recession. Joseph E. Stiglitz is University Professor at I am not so bullish on Europe and America. In both Columbia University and a Nobel laureate in cases, the underlying problem is insufficient Economics. His latest book, Freefall: Free aggregate demand. The ultimate irony is that there Markets and the Sinking of the Global Economy, are simultaneously excess capacity and vast unmet is now available in French, German, Japanese, needs—and policies that could restore growth by and Spanish. using the former to address the latter. Copyright: Project Syndicate, 2010. Both the US and Europe, for instance, must retrofit Source: www.project-syndicate.org their economies to address the challenges of global warming. There are feasible policies that would work within long-term budget constraints. The problem is politics: in the US, the Republican Party would rather see President Barack Obama fail than the economy succeed. In Europe, 27 countries with

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 93 Nanik Rupani

I deem this a welcome opportunity to express my Secondly, Nanik’s tireless efforts to promote views about Mr. Nanik Rupani—the person and ‘Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)’ are indeed his work. commendable. Pursuit of CSR has become an obsession with him. The urge to know more about I have had the privilege of interacting with Nanik on a CSR has led to his exhorting the research wing of number of occasions. Every time I meet him, I find him Indian Merchants’ Chamber to study Kautilya’s a multi-dimensional human being, warm hearted, Arthshastra and its relevance to the Indian generous and as active as a bee. I admire him for his economy in present times. This treatise contains dedication to worthy causes and caring philanthrophy. rare advice on Social Responsibility. Nanik believes in CSR becoming an integral part of the working of Nanik’s qualities of head and heart are numerous corporates and he has taken several initiatives but I wish to sum them up in the following four towards this end. One such major initiative has broad categories. been the creation of Priyadarshni Academy, which gives awards on internationally accepted criteria to Firstly, Nanik has an unusual ability to establish the best global performers in various disciplines. It empathy with whomsoever he comes in contact has gained significance in almost every important with. Probably this trait of his is because of his sphere of social life. Priyadarshni Academy has background. Uprooted from his native Sindh, successfully worked towards discovering instead of venting his anguish and discontent, he excellence for many years. Its activities have transformed this handicap into pleasant attributes crossed the shores of India and gained appreciation like entrepreneurship in his telecom business and from all over the world. also doing good to people and society at large. I have always found in him a spirit of providing a helping hand to all in need.

Mr. Nanik Rupani, Chairman, Priyadarshni Academy, was only one of three proud recipients of a gorgeous plaque and a shawl at the hands of Mr. Nitin Gadkari, President, Bharatiya Janata Party at former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s 87th birthday commemoration on December 25, 2010.

94 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Thirdly, Nanik’s firm belief in the philosophy embodying ‘We’ and not ‘I’ speaks volumes of his AN EVENT OF HISTORICAL character. The (Indian Merchants’ Chamber) IMC’s motto, ‘Together We Can Do Wonders’ and Nanik’s SIGNIFICANCE other beliefs ‘Whatever You Do, It Should Be Better Than The Best’ and ‘Attaining Excellence and Innovation Has No End’ are a few examples that portray his personality. Such beliefs have led Nanik not only to produce the best products but also to create best processes in whichever field he has worked.

Fourth and last, Nanik has successfully steered the IMC to newer heights during his term as President of the Chamber, one of the oldest Chambers of Commerce, Trade and Industry in the country. IMC The memories of 20th August 1993, the 50th will be celebrating its centenary year in 2007. To Birth Anniversary of late Mr Rajiv Gandhi, further the values of an old institution like IMC and Prime Minister of India would be etched in to make it relevant to contemporary times by gold in the annals of Priyadarshni Academy, constantly giving new directions is indeed a when the Academy paid tribute to the beloved Herculean task. Mr Nanik Rupani, in my opinion, has leader in a unique way. It was on this day that accomplished this responsibility exceedingly well. Mr. Nanik Rupani, Chairman of Priyadarshni The IMC’s work is akin to a relay race, wherein the Academy, had the rare distinction of baton annually is passed on to the next President, presenting a portrait of late Mr. Rajiv Gandhi who carries forward the task and also charts out to Mr. Shivraj Patil, the Hon’ble Speaker of the new courses for IMC to be traversed. I have found Lok Sabha, for installation in the Central Hall Nanik’s year of Presidentship to be one full of quality of Parliament House, New Delhi. events. In the process, he has been successful in contributing to the liberalization process and to the Present on the occasion were the President, formulation of pro-growth policies of the Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma, who unveiled the Maharashtra and the Central Governments. portrait, the Vice President Mr. K.R. Narayanan, the Prime Minister Mr. P.V. Narasimha Rao, I hope Nanik will continue to contribute his the Hon’ble Speaker Mr. Shivraj Patil, Mrs. valuable insights and expertise to the above areas Sonia Gandhi, Central Ministers, Governors, so that the Indian economy achieves a remarkable Chief Ministers of States, Members of transformation. Parliament, and many VIPs and dignitaries.

Suresh Prabhu Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rupani Former Union Minister, Government of India emphasized the Academy’s commitment of service to society. “Being given such a Source: Foreword, Success is our Birthright, A privilege has further accentuated the Definitive Biography of Nanik Rupani, Jaico Academy’s responsibility to society and its Publishing House, Mumbai progress” he said. “Late Shri Rajiv Gandhi was a true patriot and a dynamic, energetic and handsome Prime Minister who our nation was fortunate to have and it was only appropriate that his portrait adorn the Parliament’s wall.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 95 The Endgames in Iraq and Afghanistan

New York: For nearly a decade, American foreign Moreover, the country still experiences regular policy has been dominated by the wars in Iraq and bombings, and millions of Iraqis are either internally Afghanistan. As 2011 begins, with 50,000 US displaced or refugees. In short, conditions in Iraq, soldiers still in Iraq and another 100,000 in while significantly better than five years ago, are Afghanistan, it may not look like that era is coming more likely to deteriorate than improve. to an end. But it is. Afghanistan is moving at a much slower pace when Iraq, the second most expensive “war of choice” it comes to US troop reductions. The Obama (after Vietnam) in American history, is for the United administration is likely to remove a small number States reaching a level of effort that will no longer of US soldiers in July, the date selected by the absorb substantial military and economic resources President for the beginning of the American or garner significant domestic political attention. All military drawdown. But it will be only the beginning US troops are due to leave Iraq by the end of 2011. of an extended, gradual process of American military reduction, one that looks like it will take Even if, as seems likely, several thousand soldiers four years—and quite possibly longer. remain, the number will be small and their role limited to advising and training Iraqi military and What the US will have to show then for more than a police forces and conducting missions against decade of sacrifice and investment in Afghanistan terrorists. Eight years, 4,300 lost American lives, is anybody’s guess. The sum total of the US effort in and more than a trillion dollars later, it will be, for terms of American money and lives will likely be better or worse, mostly Iraqis who determine their less than in Iraq, but still substantial. country’s future. And it is difficult to be optimistic about Afghanistan, The initial performance of an Iraq run by Iraqis is given the Taliban’s resilience, the weakness and less than encouraging. To be sure, there have been corruption that plague the government, and the a number of relatively fair elections, political life is reality that Pakistan will continue to be a sanctuary active, and the economy is growing. But Iraqi for the Taliban and other armed groups seeking to leaders’ difficulty in forming a government gain a foothold (or more) in Afghanistan. An following last spring’s elections bodes poorly. Afghanistan that resembles a normal country is virtually impossible to foresee. Indeed, a political culture of compromise has not taken root, and the country continues to be divided Nevertheless, the decisions to scale back American by geography, ethnicity, religion, and politics. involvement decisively in Iraq, and gradually in There is no consensus on how to share the Afghanistan, will ultimately have significant potential wealth from Iraq’s vast energy resources. consequences for the US—many of them welcome. The Kurdish north is largely autonomous; where its One is financial. Current US policy toward Iraq and writ ends and the central government’s begins is Afghanistan costs roughly $150 billion per year, unsettled. Iranian influence is pervasive in the which is more than 20% of total US defense south and extensive in the center. spending. Cutting this sum will free up much-

96 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 needed money for other defense needs and for deficit reduction, arguably the principal national security challenge facing the US.

Troop reductions in Iraq and Afghanistan will also allow the US military to begin to recover from these two conflicts. Neither soldiers nor equipment can sustain the performance that has been demanded of them. Recruitment and retention of highly skilled individuals in the US armed forces will increase as the level of effort in the two conflicts winds down, and a great deal of deferred military modernization will occur. There is now an opportunity to reorient American foreign policy to concentrate on what matters More fundamentally, reducing US involvement in Iraq most. It is in the interest of the US and the world and Afghanistan will permit a rebalancing of US foreign that this opportunity not be missed. and defense policy. The two conflicts have absorbed a disproportionate share of the country’s resources— Richard N. Haass military and economic to be sure, but also the time and attention of policymakers and diplomats. Richard N. Haass, a former Director of Policy Planning In the short run, doing less in Iraq and Afghanistan in the US State Department will allow the US to concentrate on the two most and currently President of immediate external threats to US interests: Iran and the Council on Foreign North Korea. In the long run, the US needs to Relations, is the Author of generate domestic and international support for War of Necessity, War of regional and global arrangements designed to Choice: A Memoir of Two manage the defining problems of this era, from the Iraq Wars. spread of nuclear materials and terrorism to maintaining an open world economy and slowing Copyright: Project Syndicate, 2010. climate change. This will require a foreign policy Source: www.project-syndicate.org that focuses on the emerging powers of the twenty- first century, many of which are in Asia.

The US largely squandered the opportunity to shape the international system in the first decade of the new century. Iraq and Afghanistan proved to be strategic distractions, and, particularly in Afghanistan, the US should resist pressures to prolong a substantial military presence.

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 97 Rejecting the Power to Waste

Singapore: Our ancestors preached it. Our parents transformed it from a global laggard into one of the taught it to us. The West is adopting it. So why are world’s key emerging powers, the new generation we Asians abandoning it? of Indians finally arrived—in business, science, and politics. Indian diasporas in the United States, the I’m talking about environmental consciousness. United Kingdom, and Southeast Asia are among the Conserving water. Switching off a TV that no one is richest communities in these countries. We don’t watching. Calling the municipality to get a recycling want to reuse paper bags anymore. We don’t even bin in the building. Not flushing the toilet at night want to be seen conserving. We now have the (that one always raises eyebrows). power to waste, and we want to flaunt it.

Growing up in India in the 1980’s, our lifestyle was The same change in mindset can be seen in other very different from today’s. There was hardly any emerging Asian economies. Conservation is regarded waste generated in a typical household. Everything as a sign of weakness in this era of rising economic was used and reused until it fell apart. wealth. The desire to claim one’s rightful place under the sun—to share the planet equally—is a driving We traveled in trains. We were reprimanded for force throughout the region, from Southeast Asia to wasting food. When my parents visited the United Korea and China. Why should we conserve? The States for the first time, I didn’t hear the end of West was responsible for all the pollution and waste their shock at the excess they saw—from the in the first place. It is our turn now to ruin the planet, wastage of paper napkins and plastic cutlery at and no one should try to stop us. fast-food restaurants to the average household’s usage of cars and electricity. Unfortunately while we are queuing up for our BMWs, the rules of the game changed. The new At the time, as a young Indian recently relocated to lifestyle is no longer sustainable. It’s the end of the the West, I didn’t want to be associated with stodgy road for gas-guzzling cars, glass apartments that parents who patiently folded used wrapping paper need constant air conditioning, water-thirsty and stored it under their mattress. But now a washing machines, and wasteful packaging. By 2050, renaissance of their mindset is taking place, as climate Earth’s population will be more than nine billion, change becomes common knowledge. The wisdom of and more than two-thirds will live in urban areas. my parents’ generation speaks to me again. We cannot survive the lifestyle that we desire.

Losing touch with that wisdom was, perhaps, There is an opportunity here for leadership. Infosys understandable. As India’s economic boom has is redesigning every aspect of how it provides

98 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 lighting, cooling, water, and transportation to their opportunity to lead by example. Governments, too, more than 100,000 employees, and aiming to should collaborate with their developing-country reduce costs ten-fold in the process. The Indian counterparts to provide much-needed leadership in army is using solar steam cooking in Ladakh to the climate-change debate. cook for the 500 jawans (young army recruits) stationed there, and so is the Shirdi Sai Baba Asia must leapfrog the unsustainable stage of temple in Maharashtra. development. We already have a deep-rooted tradition of conservation. Reclaiming it would make Elsewhere, prisons in Rwanda are using their 30,000 Asians trendsetters, and make the Asian way of life inmates’ sewage to provide biogas for cooking and an example for others to follow. compost for growing vegetables. Sunlabob, a private company in Laos, is renting solar lanterns Malavika Jain Bambawale to poor villagers, who find them more affordable than candles. The UAE is spending a chunk of its oil Malavika Jain Bambawale is a Research Fellow at money to develop Masdar, the world’s first zero- the Center on Asia and Globalization at the Lee carbon, zero-waste city. Singapore is using Newater, Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, Singapore. a treated form of wastewater that is potable. And British schools now include sustainability as a key Copyright: Project Syndicate, 2010 part of the curriculum. Source: www.project-syndicate.org

But some are falling behind in this thinking, namely well-to-do Asian households—and some Asian governments. Just five years from now, developing countries are projected to emit more greenhouse gases than all developed countries. We can either shrug our shoulders, or we can use the opportunity to revive our old values, rethink how we live, and change that projection.

Whether it is through low-energy housing, planting trees, teaching children to respect the environment, boycotting incandescent lightbulbs, or wrapping gifts in old newspapers, we have the

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 99 Demand or Supply?

Chicago: Economics is all about demand and of future taxes, are hunkering down and increasing supply. Typically, the two are equal, and, if not, savings. Moreover, the increasingly activist powerful forces push them towards each other. But, government has left businesses uneasy about with high and persistent levels of unemployment in future regulatory and tax measures, and thus the United States, there is a real question about the reluctant to invest. nature of the problem: is aggregate demand too low, or are there problems with supply? The truth probably lies somewhere in between. Government spending—especially on President Barack Obama’s administration seems to unemployment benefits, aid to states, and some think that the problem is one of demand, and has construction projects—probably helped avert a passed stimulus measure after stimulus measure, more wrenching downturn, but continued red ink reducing taxes and increasing transfers and worries households, which are also trying to government spending in order to boost rebuild savings and reduce debt after a spending consumption and investment. The Federal Reserve binge. The regulatory uncertainty created in areas is of a similar mind, not only maintaining rock- such as health care makes it difficult not only for bottom short-term interest rates, but also embarking the health-care industry to make long-term on an adventurous policy targeting long-term rates. investment decisions, but also for businesses to Some progressive economists want even more. make long-term hires.

Why have these policies not worked thus far in Nevertheless, before rushing to judgment about bringing down unemployment, even though the current policy, we should recognize the trend in growth recovery is well under way? The recent US recoveries of slow job growth. From 1960 progressive economist says that stimulus worked, until 1991, recoveries from recessions in the US staving off a much deeper recession—if not were typically rapid. From the trough of the worse—but that the measures were too timid to recession, the economy recovered the lost jobs in generate a robust recovery. eight months on average. The recoveries from the recessions of 1991 and 2001 were very different. For The conservative economist responds that it is instance, in 2001, it took just one quarter for output precisely because the government has become so to recover, but 38 months for jobs to come back. free with taxpayers’ money that households, fearful

100 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Explanations abound. Some economists argue that, sufficiently to re-employ all these workers. Hurst unlike past recessions, in which workers were estimates that this “structural” unemployment may temporarily laid off from an industry only to be account for up to three percentage points of total rehired as the recovery picked up, job losses unemployment. In other words, were it not for starting in 1991 were more permanent. Matters construction, the US unemployment rate would be were exacerbated by firms’ postponement until a 6.5%—a far healthier situation than today. recession of hard choices about closing unviable plants and shedding workers. As a result, Policymakers should remember that the housing unemployed workers had to find jobs in new boom was fueled by easy monetary policy, which industries, which took more time and training. sought to expand job growth as the US recovered from the last recession. Indeed, high-school Others suggest that the Internet has made it easier graduation rates dropped in Las Vegas as people left for firms to hire quickly. So, rather than hire in a school for readily available unskilled construction panic at the first sign of recovery, as they did in the jobs. Now those uneducated unemployed are past, for fear that they will be unable to do so later experiencing more than three times the and lose sales, firms today would rather ensure unemployment rate of college graduates. It will be that the recovery is well established before hiring. very hard for them to return to the workforce. Hence also the growth in temporary hires today. The lesson for policymakers is clear: instead of Regardless of what the right explanation is, the constantly trying to boost spending and potentially history of recent recessions suggests that we creating problems for the future, a more should not be surprised that the job recovery is sustainable way to improve job growth is to taking time. There is, however, an aspect of the facilitate the “re-skilling” of the unemployed, problem that is different this time: layoffs in especially those who were in construction-related construction. Therein lies an additional explanation jobs. Eventually, better labor-force supply will for tepid job growth, as well as a salutary lesson create healthier and more sustainable demand. about policy. Raghuram Rajan In the last boom, construction jobs expanded significantly, with investment in housing as a share Raghuram Rajan, a of GDP increasing by 50% from 1997 to 2006. As my former Chief Economist colleague Erik Hurst and his co-authors have shown, of the IMF, is Professor states that had the largest rise in construction as a of Finance at the share of GDP in 2000-2006 tended to have the University of Chicago greatest contraction in that industry in 2006-2009. and the Author of Fault These states also tended to have the largest rise in Lines: How Hidden unemployment rates between 2006 and 2009. Fractures Still Threaten the World Economy.

Copyright: Project Syndicate, 2011. “... the history of Source: www.project-syndicate.org recent recessions suggests that we should not be surprised that the job recovery is taking time.”

The unemployed comprise not only construction workers, but also ancillary workers, such as real- estate brokers and bankers, as well as all those who work on houses, such as plumbers and electricians. So the job losses extend far beyond those in the construction industry.

It is hard to believe that any increase in aggregate demand will boost the housing market—which, remember, was buoyed by visions of steady price appreciation that few seem likely to hold today—

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 101 Bhavan’s Children

Extract from Creation: A Story from Ancient India

The Copper Age

The third age, the Copper Age, lasted 864,000 years. During that time, people sought liberation by performing magnificent worship, called puja. The temple (mandir) was considered the home of Lord Krishna, who was present there as the sacred statue (murti). Priests served the murtis with devotion, washing and dressing them, offering food and singing for their pleasure. Temple buildings represented the entire creation. Their tall towers and gateways were decorated with ornate carvings of demigods and their beautiful wives.

Did you know? In some mandirs, the main ceremony, called arti, is offered six times per day. This worship uses nature’s gifts and involves all the senses. Before each arti, the temple priests (pujaris) offer vegetarian food, which is later handed to worshippers as they leave the temple. This act of worship involves the sense of taste. The pujaris begin the arti itself by blowing a conch-shell, representing sound. They then offer the deities a The Iron Age lamp, representing sight. They also offer water, incense, flowers, a peacock fan and a white chamara The fourth age in which we now live is Kali Yuga, (yak-tail whisk). During the entire ceremony, the the iron age of hypocrisy and quarrel. Men have pujaris constantly ring small hand-bells. but short lives (100 years maximum), are misguided, unfortunate and lazy in spiritual The temple is bright, colourful, and scented with matters. This winter age of Kali does have a saving incense. Its joyous atmosphere is meant to remind grace though. us of the spiritual world. Ancient scriptures predicted Lord Krishna’s personal descent in West Bengal 500 years ago. He introduced the congregational chanting of His own holy names as the best means to approach Him. He appeared in a golden form as Lord Gauranga and taught that wherever in the world you are, simply by chanting (Hari, Krishna, Govinda, Vasudeva and Rama), one can achieve the perfection of a purified heart and a pacified mind, and at the end of life go back to the spiritual world. In this age Lord Krishna is especially present in His name and can therefore be approached in all circumstances.

This iron age of Kali lasts for 432,000 years of which 5,000 years have already passed. Krishna appears again at the end of this age as Kalki Avatar and prepares the way for the next golden age. Even though the way of approaching Lord Krishna may vary depending on the age we are living in, still, the basic idea is the same. The nature of the soul is simply to serve Lord Krishna with devotion. This is called Sanatan Dharma, or the eternal religion.

Source: ISKCON Educational Services

102 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 Fraser Island journey and Significant Memories for life!

In my opinion, Fraser Island is one of the most running and jumping around like a little kid. It was impressive places in whole Australia. It is so sunny weather and pure blue sky on a top, white amazing seeing pure blue lakes surrounded by sparkling sand on a bottom and deep dark blue lake white sand size of flour. Unfortunately, I did not in a between and nobody around – that feels as spend much time there and next time for sure will paradise! Unfortunately, we did not have much time stay longer. I was not able to book a tour to Fraser to enjoy the place so we decided to depart hopping Island and so could not get 4WD. So my friend and I get back to civilization before the sun goes down. decided to go to Lake McKenzie by foot which was Well it didn’t happen. quite fantastic and at the same time quite a dangerous journey. Why? You will find out later… In half an hour or so the sun started falling down….It is scary because it is still long way to go. So we took a ferry from Hervey Bay and arrived at Bush became dark and unpleasant. Really quick the island just in time to have a lunch and then hit and terrible feelings were increasing by the time the road. We did not know exactly how long it was when I started thinking about all that deadly going to take to get there but our ambition was Australian creatures. We realized that not having a higher than everything. My friend and I got the map torch was a huge mistake and only weak mobile from a hotel nearby and of course we told a ranger phone light could point the track (well it is better where we intended to go. We were unattended than nothing I thought). On the way we used a trackers and it is always necessary to do so. wooden stick to avoid coming across a spider’s net. We were trying to make a noise as much as possible Finally, we got on the track. For the first half an so animals could hear us and prevent any hour we could still feel the human impact but after interaction with us. One of my feet was injured and a while we saw a gate for people with warning on it: I was barely walking through with the agonising “Danger!” and below was written something about pain…Time was going slowly… dingo territory and the caution that unattended kids cannot access the area. Later I found out that Finally, I saw night-time lighting! I thought it is dingo might be sneaking up and nipping a person unbelievable what we did! I was happy and or even seriously bite. Dingo can be aggressive completely exhausted and of course that variety of especially against women or kid. But still on the feelings I experienced with made this day contrary it appeared really very exciting and we unforgettable for the rest of my life. just opened the gate without hesitation. Wow, bush was alive! Everything around us was roaring. It was Victoria Korshunova the massive power of virgin forest that was making huge impact on me. I felt so small so immaterial. Victoria Korshunova Wonderful… We spent about 3 hrs walking to get to used to work at Lake McKenzie. By the way we saw couple of Academies Australasia Goannas and one of them a meter plus long. group of Colleges Extremely large trees and sprawling bushes grown helping students with straight from white-gray sand; well it is so amazing, their requirement, feels like you are in fairytale. monitoring their progress, accepting Suddenly, blue water lake appears in front of us. I payments and other. have never seen anything like this before, I lost my Now she works at voice… I just dropped my bag on sand and start Bhavan Australia. Reader.com I noticed your excellent publication in the office I am delighted to receive your magazine Bhavan of UNAA (NSW) and I wish to congratulate you on Australia (Vol. 8 No. 4) and thank you for the same. the high standard of its values and ideals. Truly, It contains very useful articles on distinguished the United Nations Association and Bhavan persons of India who inspired thousands of people Australia have much in common. and served as a beacon of light. Our younger generation ought to know them. It is excellently Mrs. Valerie Weekes, President United Nations produced and will be a collectors’ item. Association of Australia (NSW Division) Prof. A.V. Narasimha Murthy, Chairman, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Mysore Kendra

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 103 Charter of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Australia

Bhavan) is a non-profit, non-religious, non- The Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan ( political Non Government Organisation (NGO). Bhavan has been playing a crucial role in educational and cultural interactions in the world, holding aloft the best of Indian traditions and at the same time meeting the needs of modernity and multiculturalism. Bhavan’s ideal ‘is the whole world is but one family’ and its motto: ‘let noble thoughts come to us from all sides’.

Like Bhavan’s other centres around the world, Bhavan Australia facilitates intercultural activities and provides a forum for true understanding of Indian culture, multiculturalism and foster closer cultural ties among individuals, Governments and cultural institutions in Australia.

Bhavan Australia Charter derived from its constitution is:

• To advance the education of the public in: a) the cultures (both spiritual and temporal) of the world, b) literature, music, the dance, c) the arts, d) languages of the world, e) philosophies of the world.

• To foster awareness of the contribution of a diversity of cultures to the continuing development of multicultural society of Australia.

• To foster understanding and acceptance of the cultural, linguistic and ethnic diversity of the Australian people of widely diverse heritages.

• To edit, publish and issue books, journals and periodicals, documentaries in Sanskrit, English and other languages, to promote the objects of the Bhavan or to impart or further education as authorized.

• To foster and undertake research studies in the areas of interest to Bhavan and to print and publish the results of any research which is undertaken.

www.bhavanaustralia.org

The Test of Bhavan’s Right to Exist

The test of Bhavan’s right to exist is whether those who work for it in different spheres and in different places and those who study in its many institutions can develop a sense of mission as would enable them to translate the fundamental values, even in a small measure, into their individual life.

Creative vitality of a culture consists in this: whether the ‘best’ among those who belong to it, however small their number, find self-fulfilment by living up to the fundamental values of our ageless culture.

It must be realised that the history of the world is a story of men who had faith in themselves and in their mission. When an age does not produce men of such faith, its culture is on its way to extinction. The real strength of the Bhavan, therefore, would lie not so much in the number of its buildings or institutions it conducts, nor in the volume of its assets and budgets, nor even in its growing publication, cultural and educational activities. It would lie in the character, humility, selflessness and dedicated work of its devoted workers, honorary and stipendiary. They alone can release the regenerative influences, bringing into play the invisible pressure which alone can transform human nature.

104 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 < < < Flash back

Can a Politician be a Gentleman? In Beloved Memory of Sardar Patel - V.S. Srinivasa Sastri - Dr. S. Radhakrishnan

Why is it not possible to be at the same time a After 13 years of our own administration in this gentleman and politician? I have sometimes country, we have not been able to endow the wondered whether politics is of such an absorbing common people with a genuine sense of belonging interest in life, for instance, as agriculture or to this great land. It is a matter which we must literature, or for another instance, as the pursuit of consider carefully and seriously. Sardar Patel was family happiness, or the maintenance and simple, homely and kind, as all great men are. He preservation of property. Is it as absorbing an brought about the integration of the country in a interest as any one of these? The answer is quiet and persuasive manner. Sardar Patel took interesting. The answer, it seems to me, is that it is quick and firm decisions in tackling problems. and that it is not. By the intrinsic nature of the case Political genius consists in anticipating events, it does not seem to me to be so absorbing a forestalling situations and dealing with them. When pursuit; but by the results, the conduct of these once you allow the situation to develop, it may be engaged in politics and by the appearances of the difficult for you to overcome it peacefully and case, it seems to surpass in intensity almost any quietly. People should take a warning from what one of these other interests. had happened and do their utmost to consolidate the country and make everyone see that he or she Politics can be an ideal, politics can also be belonged to the nation first and then only to the degraded in practice. As an ideal, politics requires community and province. Sardar Patel might have you to prepare yourself carefully by study and by had some differences with Gandhiji and argued observation; it requires you to put yourself always with him, but once a decision was given by in the position of a servant of the community, one Gandhiji, Patel as true disciplinarian, obeyed it. He who seeks its welfare and has trained himself was totally against untouchability, caste and systematically to put the interest above his own or communal prejudices. that of any section of the public; it requires that you should pay unremitting attention to public A Great Captain business as it comes along; it requires also that in - Jawaharlal Nehru your conduct towards others engaged in a similar occupation you must show chivalry and respect, History will record many things about him in its the same as you would ask for yourself; it demands pages and call him the Builder and Consolidator of further that in the final decision of any one of these New India. But, perhaps, to many of us here he will questions you should carefully weigh all the pros be remembered as a great captain of our forces in and cons of a case, that you should try and in the the struggle for freedom, as one who gave us sound calmness of your private judgment assign to each advice in times of trouble as well as in moments of one of these its due weight and consideration, and victory, as a friend and colleague on whom one on the top of it all, that you should cast your vote could invariably rely and as a tower of strength that in a spirit of pure public service, whether it be a revived wavering hearts. vote for a candidate at an election, or for the decision of a question in parliament. Whichever way the vote is cast, it should be cast as matter of conscience entirely for the welfare and benefit of the community and not for your own.

From Bhavan’s Journal December 11, 1960 Reprinted in Bhavan’s Journal December 15, 2010

Jan 2011 | Bhavan Australia | 105 Holy & Wise

“Man may be born high or low, but he is superior to a hundred men of noble birth if he does not overstep the limits of propriety, strives to follow dharma and is modest and humble.” “A nation’s culture resides in the Vidura Neeti hearts and in the soul of its people. I claim to represent all the cultures, for my religion, whatever it may be called, demands the fulfillment of all the cultures.”

“All men are by nature equal, all made of the Mahatma Gandhi same earth by the same creator, and however we deceive ourselves, as dear to God is the poor peasant as the mighty prince.”

Plato

Kulapativani

Be Proud of the Gita

The Gita has nourished, age after age, the urge to self-fulfillment, of men from Arjuna to Gandhiji, and is even now the strength to millions in the present generation.

Yet the modern educated mind in India is a timid mind. It has a subconscious feeling that if it is found relying too often on the Gita, the possessor— the arrogant modern—will be classed with the superstitious, the weak, the out-worn.

It is a real fear amongst us. But if India is to continue its triumphant march to world influence, the fear must be cast out.

St. Paul in his letter to the Romans said: “I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ.” Why should any one be ashamed of the Gospel which Shri Krishna taught to mankind? No man is ashamed of his learning, of his artistic gifts, or of displaying power, however little it be. Why should he be ashamed of openly confessing the real source of power, the power which strengthens everyone when he is feeble, inspires him when he is weak and upholds him when he is strong?

Dr K.M. Munshi Founder Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan

106 | Bhavan Australia | Jan 2011 presented by

www.bhavanaustralia.org 18 - 20 March 2011 Darling Harbour, Sydney

Friday 18 March - 6:30pm - 10pm DON’T > Media Launch - Orchestra and Bhangra Dances MISS THIS Saturday 19 March - 11am - 8pm > Cultural Performances, Prayers, Meditation, Yoga and FREE Ayurveda demonstrations ENTRY > 12:30pm - Rath Yatra departs from Hyde Park (North) > Food and Craft Stalls

Sunday 20 March - 11am - 7pm > Cultural Performances > Colour Throwing Sessions at regular intervals Proudly supported by > Food and Craft Stalls special features

> Exhibition by Handicraft & Handlooms Export Corporation of India, a Government of India Enterprise- March 18-22 followed by 25-28 March in Melbourne. > Exhibition of paintings on Moksha and Samsara and the philosophy and spirituality of South Asia,by Matt Anzak, Canada . > Naturopathy workshops by Dr Babu Joseph, Director, National Institute of Naturopathy, Health Ministry, Government of India > Guest artists from India: Padamshri Bharatnatyam dancer Nandini Krishna , courtesy Priyadarshini Academy and internationally renowned Debapriya and Samanavaya and others to confirm.

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