DEV DEPARTS

DEV DEPARTS

' ISHQ ZAMENE MEIN JO KAR TE HAIN'

                                                              ISHQ MEIN JITA MARTE HAIN '

                                     

Immortals also die; for they are in flesh and blood and therefore their stay is finite even though they are 'evergreen' as did our Dev; he was indeed DEV; above the humans.

My mind is clouded with the images both Colour and Black& White when I was in my budding youth at Allahabad. 'Hum-Dono', at Niranjan at Matinee, 'House no 44' morning show at Vishambhar , 'Nau do Gyaraha' morning show in Kanpur, 'Fantoosh' at Jhankar the mini theatre, 'Johny Mera Naam' at Pushparaj are retained in me. There seems so much to say and write, but to make a coherent attempt is tasking. Therefore I embark to narrate as the memory dictates and glide me from my adolescence to youth to middle age during which I like so many have adored the evergreen, the earliest superstar Dev Anand.

 

His life is deftly documented in his own words in the Autobiography-- 'Romancing with life'. Graduated from Lahore in English Literature he wanted to do M.A. But his father's financial condition did not allow him to proceed further . Struck by the stardom of Ashok Kumar he boarded the Frontier Mail to Bombay where his elder brother Chetan was already stationed. His first hit was 'Ziddi', and soon he launched his own production house 'Navketan'. He was one of the few very well educated at that time in films and which reflected in his selection of films.

He falls in love with the reigning singing star of that era--- Suraiyya. They both want to marry but Suraiyya's Grandmother comes in between . He weeps uncontrollably on the shoulders of his elder brother. Then never looks back. Marries his co-star Kalpana Kartik. Teams with his younger genius brother Vijay and makes memorable films-- 'Nau do gyaraha', 'Tere Ghar Ke Samne', 'Kala Bazar', 'Hum-Dono', 'Guide', 'Jewel Thief', 'Tere Mere Sapne'.

 

In between he falls in love with two other leading Ladies. Zahida; whom he never mentions in his book played parallel role in 'Prem Pujari', and was his leading lady in 'Gambler'. He confesses to be in love with Zeenat Aman and is on the threshold of a major decision when she ditches him for Raj Kapoor's 'Satyam Shiwam Sundaram'. Dev is shattered when in a party Raj boldly kisses Zeenat Aman. He leaves for America to hide his sorrow, wears large goggles to cover his emotions. Zeenat Aman was Western in her attire and thinking so was Dev, they acted together in many movies-'Hare Ram Hare Krishna', 'Heera Panna',' Ishq Ishq Ishq'' 'Warrant', 'Darling Darling','Prem Shastra'.

He then launched Tina Munim in 'Des Pardes', which was a Hit. Thereafter he made some mediocre films such as 'Swami Dada', 'Lootmaar', but 'Anand aur Anand' the launching pad for his son was well made. Soon there was creative degeneration , he seemed to have lost the plot, but the energy and hope in him kept him going. Despite many disastrous ventures he was mentally sharp and active , this could be discerned from his 'Autobiography' which he wrote only a few years ago and from the various interviews in which his agile mental faculty is on display.

In a recent Interview he had stated that his banner had not even given beautiful Cinema but at least 200 memorable songs; indeed he is right. Songs of many banners and specially RK have been great, but the quality and popularity of Navketan stands apart and is unmatched. This was possible under the genius called Sachin Dev Burman whose shadow looms large on the banner of Navketan. Teaming up with stalwarts such as Sahir( Fantoosh, Taxi Driver,Baazi), Majrooh( Kala Pani, Jewel Thief, Nau Do Gyareha), Shailendra( Kala Baazar, Guide) Hasrat Jaipuri( Tere Ghar Ke Saamne), Neeraj( Prem Pujari), Anand Bakshi( Heera Panna, Hare Ram Hare Krishna, Ishq Ishq Ishq) he gave us those immortal songs; perhaps pluralism is the essence of varied manifestations and success !

Among his films 'Guide' and 'Hum-Dono' are in the category of classics. 'Baazi' 'Jewel Thief ', 'Kala Baazar','Tere Mere Sapne' and 'Johny Mera Naam' were brilliant. As director three of his films stand out- 'Prem Pujari', 'Hare Ram Hare Krishna' and 'Des Pardes'.

As it emerges from his demeanour that he was an extremely modern person, this came out in his films which have a distinct 'sub-text' too. 'Fantoosh'- how life insurance can be misused, 'Taxi-Driver'- unemployment in urban India and exploring the underbelly of Bombay, 'Guide' - resurrection to greatness from defame,'Hum-Dono'- how war affects relationships,'Prem Pujari'- pacifism,'Tere Mere Sapne'- degeneration in the noble medical profession, 'Kala Baazar'-- how love reforms, 'Des Pardes'- illegal immigration.

At this juncture it is pertinent to discuss the oft comparison with Raj Kapoor and Dilip Kumar. Well, Raj was essentially a great Director who made many successful films with mass appeal. Dilip will always be remembered as a thespian, whenever the Art of acting will be discussed his name will be foremost. Dev gave us films with wide modern themes and he remained a true 'Star' who had a strong urban appeal. Women loved him and men envied. His films barring a few were not block busters but took a strong 'initial opening' because of his following among youth.

With the demise of Dev it is appropriate to assess the contribution of the Anand family to the Indian Cinema. Together with his brothers , the elder Chetan and the younger Vijay their body of work is larger than that of 'Kapoors' and it will not be an exaggeration to state that their contribution is matching with that of the 'First' family ( Kapoors). 'Neecha Nagar' was the first Indian film to win a Grand Prix at the Cannes film festival, 'Haqiquat' will remain as the best War film of Indian Cinema, 'Heer Ranjha' was the only film in poetic form, and 'Guide' as said earlier will remain a all time classic. All these will stand the test of time.

I hope the legacy of the Anand family is sustained by the sons of Dev and Vijay. Even then, they will continue to provide happiness and platform of learning for the generations to come.

' HERMES' STORES OUTRAGES INDIAN MODESTY

'HERMES STORES' OUTRAGES INDIAN MODESTY

Though alarms are being raised of the future of Capitalism and 'market economy', but defying the death-knell is opening of a French goods Stores''HERMES”, at the corner of the famous 'Horniman Circle', opposite the Asiatic Library, at South Mumbai. Recently my inquisitiveness led me to the Stores as I was visiting my Bank at Horniman Circle . The sales person ( lady) showed me around with much courtesy, there were assorted items at display, ladies' sun cap , jacket for men, shoes, perfumes, track suit. The items seemed sophisticated but nothing extraordinary. I was told that the Stores had recently opened in Mumbai and Delhi. Curious as we all are I peered closer to the objects to read the price tag and was “shocked” at the figures – an ordinary ladies' sun cap was priced Rs 24000/-, men's jacket Rs 1,10,000/-, ladies' track suit Rs 61000/-. I was left speechless and did not have heart to ask as to why these articles were priced so high. Considering brand value, cost of production, exoticness the pricing was beyond comprehension. The sales girl insisted that we visit the first floor as well where some 'Art decoration ' was at display and which the department changed frequently. Whilst moving up the 'glass lift' I casually asked her that the customers may be buying these items for 'gift purpose', to which she said, -” and for personal use also Sir!” I wondered as to who these 'select Indians' were? Stores such as 'Hermes', essentially mock at Indian modesty. Right opposite the Stores there sits a lady on pavement selling bananas, which many office goers and unemployed buy for lunch. Just 200 yards away from its location various garments are on 'sale' on pavement for Rs 50/- to 150/-, all these are probably factory rejects or export rejects but people crowd the place to buy them. There are reputed brands also at Flora fountain junction- 'Reid and Taylor', where the item may be 5 times high than the other acceptable brands but such 'contrasts ' have been absorbed in the Indian system. 'Hermes' spells snobbery of the most insensitive kind. One wonders at the turn of history, the site where 'Hermes ' is situated has seen the inception of the modern India. It was at Firoj Shah Mehta's residence that the Indian National Congress was formed in 1885, which propelled the country to freedom. Not far away are the docks where the Unions once paralysed the administration. ' Hermes' caters to which constituency? To those who have taken fashion to such disproportionate levels!Have all the 'action groups NGOs ignored the existence of this Store? Is this not part of their agenda? Whom should we confront? The 'Hermes' or the people who cater to such Brands?

'SPIRITUAL – SHOPKEEPERS'

 

The prominence of ' spiritual Gurus ' in to days times is no indication of the Nation's enlightenment. Contrary though is true. With the rise in 'spiritualism-religious-mysticism-occultism' related market the material hunger of the Nation is ever on increase. Truthfully 'spiritualism' today does not fall in the enlightenment/higher goals/Nirvana basket, but in the 'shopping basket'.

I have difficulty in communicating and understanding, in fact dealing with this trend brought up as I was in a very congenial religious atmosphere. My Paternal Grand father ( Dadaji) was a Sanskrit Acharya from Varanasi and believed in 'Vedanta' . Therefore he encouraged us to understand 'Upanishads' , 'Gita', 'Yog vashishta' etc, in fact his knowledge of other religions was profound, many of his contemporaries sought his regular advice on interpretations of texts . Whilst in Jail as a prominent freedom fighter of Garhwal he imparted lessons on 'Gita' to his inmates. He was indeed a Grand old man and purposefully utilized his spiritual insight in 'journalism' and the weekly newspaper he edited lifelong. My Maternal Grand father (Nanaji ), was 'Arya Samaj', Shastri , highly learned and proficient in ' Shastrarth' ( religious debate), he was a true 'Rishi' of our time. There was no material attachment in him and possessed a distinct streak of renunciation. His rendition of Sanskrit 'shloks' was so perfect that his subordinates and peers were very careful not to utter any incorrect pronunciation in his presence for fear of being checked. I am indeed grateful to my Grandfathers for the many blessings. The fact that i can read Sanskrit without any formal learning is credited to them. My close childhood association and having participated in numerous discussions and 'Havans' ( yaghya / yaghna) has been immensely beneficial in my outlook.

Spiritualism ( self realization) has always been a lofty ideal in society. What is essential to spiritualism is ' renunciation '. A sense of detachment from the worldly pleasures, lack of materialism. The offshoot of materialism such as marketing, glamour, follower ship, sycophancy ,flattery, Hero-worship do not fit-in the picture of 'spiritualism'. And, yet spiritualism today is all about Hero-worship,glamour, marketing,money, gold and glitter.

Spiritual leaders like politicians and film stars need constant attention and support of people for sustenance. The increase in dedicated channels on 'Religion-spiritualism' is one strong indicator. Unfortunately, even with much advancement in science the ties with commercial spiritualism have only strengthened. Media upsurge has significantly contributed to the rise of these leaders. Baba Ramdev, Murari Babu, Sudhanshu Maharaj, Asa Ram Bapu have also been exposed on media but it has made no dent to their popularity. The 'demand' of these spiritual gurus has only enhanced despite media tearing some of them apart goes to the credit of these 'spiritual shopkeepers' who have presented themselves so pleasingly and seduced the most rational ,prosperous wily and wicked in their fold.

 

Stories from our mythologies which are permeated in our subconscious however portray 'Gurus' and 'Rishis' as people much above the ordinary, simply clad with no attachments to worldly goodies. Vashist- Guru of Ram-Laxman, Vishvamitra- one who taught Ram and Laxman weaponary, Bharadwaj, Aatri are few names with which we are familiar. In adoption of spiritual path practices such as 'tapasya'( austerity),and 'tyaag'( sacrifice) are frequently referred to, and indeed are essential for its success.

'Dronacharya', the much revered Guru of 'Kaurava' and 'Pandava', princes, who taught the young princes the Art of weaponry was perhaps the earliest 'Guru' who formally asked for remunerations which though was accepted willingly was considered an act 'out of character', as 'Gurus' offered learning at their own residence as part of their 'Dharma',(Duty) without asking or expecting anything in exchange. Dronacharya, though was compelled by circumstances to seek economic compensation as he did not have resources even to feed his little son whom he loved dearly. A customary Guru Daksina ( offering to Guru) was given by the disciple at the end of the learning period which varied based on the status and station of the disciple ( shishya) and was not necessarily monetary. However disciples were never under constraint for payment.

The spiritual leaders of today live in the lap of luxury and though apparently no loud announcement is made for the remunerations but from their picture of wellness it can easily be discerned that only the rich and famous can afford such Gurus. I have no means to verify the depth of their knowledge of their subject, the intensity of their enlightenment but as 'actions speak louder than words', their deeds do undermine their intentions if not their authority. What was the need of Swami Agnivesh to visit the T V serial 'Big Boss 5' ? Was it for publicity or money? Why has Baba Ramdev entered politics? Why has he entered the business of medicine manufacturing? Could he not merely teach pranayam and prescribe medicines if the desire was to heal the people ? Why was Sudhanshu Maharaj caught on camera recommending means to bring in money to India through illegal route? Why has Sri Sri Ravi Shankar built a palace like structure in Bangalore ? Why was he so keen to broker a deal with Anna Hazare recently? Why have Bapu Asaram and Murari Babu been involved in land litigations? Why was so much Gold discovered from the Ashram of Sai Baba? Why was Sai Baba so fond of Gold? Why I oppose such spiritual leaders vehemently is that they are expected to stay away from limelight but their attraction to spotlight is similar to that of any 'page three' gentry . They are like any salesmen; the only difference is that some are mere hawkers, others have their shop by the road side while some sit pretty in malls!

Should a sacred path such as spiritualism be left to such tricksters? In reputed University's abroad it is given much primacy and professors such as Dr Radhakrishnan ( the second President of India) taught regularly on Indian religion at Oxford. It is therefore the duty of the state to enlighten people and to open learning of our heritage. The 'Patanjali Sutra' and other texts on Yog and related matters should be formally imparted in our University if we intend to restrict the emergence of such Showmen. Self learning should also be encouraged. Publication houses such as Gita Press , publications of Ramkrishna mission specially on Upanishads are good, so are the publications of Chinmaya mission. Responding to the ever increasing interests of readers in spiritualism-mysticism-religion-occultism, the leading newspapers regularly carry out columns by scholars and Swamis on the subject. The Times Of India brings out a Sunday supplement- ' The Speaking Tree' which seems quite popular.

However the impact of the 'spiritual corporates' and soothsayers seems not to ebb. We can only reduce it by providing citizens with alternate avenues of learning and enlightenment.

Lenin's words still resound even though he is buried far away for long—-

' Religion is the opiate of the masses'.

CORPORATE POWER AND THE FUTURE OF SMALL CINEMA

CORPORATE POWER AND FUTURE OF SMALL CINEMA

Those who celebrated the demise of Soviet Union, crumbling of Berlin Wall and diminishing of left ideology since last 15 years or so, are perhaps confused and surprised to witness the fall of capitalism in the west, the demonstration in wall street, Madrid,Paris and London. The 95% are asking the 1% to return the wealth accumulated at their cost and downtrodden of the world at large. Is it pay back time?

The root of the issue is not related to the type of Government, but with the people, power and justice. People have thrown out the powerful who have for long ignored their cause.

We got a glimpse of the people's power in the recent Anna's agitation. What has emerged sufficiently is that the 'corporate' culture which is the offshoot of capitalism has cheated the society. In the name of efficiency, competition, market it has extended its reach to the various areas which it perceives would provide them with wealth- education, health, land, entertainment etc.

Since the adoption of 'corporate culture' by the film industry there has been some improvement in work culture. The 'scripts' are now worked in advance and are less frequently written on the sets, the payment to crew and technical staff has improved and some order in the 'unorganised' industry is in place. The release dates are announced in advance, sufficient marketing in carried out, a separate marketing Budget ( in some cases it matches the budget of the film itself) is earmarked. There is much 'management', something which the American/Hollywood cinema adopted much earlier. However; one cannot think of any movie in recent times which has been of significance and contributed to cinema; only efficient products of corporate culture, gloss, glitter, loud, slick without soul. In essence the 'corporate culture' has multiplied the greed of the people associated with cinema. From crude financiers to crass distributors the cinema has moved to sophisticated, cold and cunning corporates.

Along with the extreme commercialism has arrived the superior technology which has made mass release achievable in that the Big film makers who have borrowed the corporate ideology smother 'small films' by occupying all available 'screens' across the country. This is done through satellite ( U F O )technology and through prints which are mass produced. The result is that most mediocre films muster sufficient money during the first weekend itself and are declared 'hit' which in older times they would have not. Therefore, the 'corporates' and the Big film makers not only survive by producing bad films but edge out smaller films from the theatre in order to hog all screen space. The recent case is of 'Sahib Bivi aur Gangster' which was doing good business but was removed from all cinema halls of Mumbai to make room for 'Ra One'.

Therefore in real terms films such as 'Ra One', 'Tees mar Khan' would never be hits if the norms were what were followed for 'Sholay' or any of the films of that era. During that time a film had to run for months to muster returns and be declared a hit and so survived on 'merit' rather than 'marketing'. This trend of mopping up money in the first week itself has given rise to a particular brand of films which appear attractive but lack depth because much attention is applied to amass money quickly. These films are therefore much like 'one night stand' lacking emotion. A 'quickie' perhaps rather than a long 'love affair'. The quality of films such as 'bodyguard','Rascals', 'Ready', reflect 'quickie culture'. That is why we have not seen a 'Sangam','Waqt', 'Deewar', 'Guide' etc. The rural themes are dead, because the urban ceteres make money.

What is therefore required is protection of 'small' and 'medium' film makers from the onslaught of Big film makers and in this a 'regulatory' body is required to be set up consisting of film makers, distributors, exhibitors, journalists and Government representative. The release of films should be regulated to allow for space for small films and control of 'monopoly' of Big banners. In the name of market and competition smaller films should not be edged out. Unions of the film industry should also look into the matter and allow space for small film makers. There should therefore be'cut-off' number beyond which a new film should not be screened.

OPPORTUNITY AND THE GAME OF GOLF

 OPPORTUNITY      AND        THE     GAME    OF     GOLF

        The  conflict between ability and opportunity  , inheritance and  achievement  is very old. Countries who have shunned such misconceptions have  moved ahead and have benefitted socially others are still struggling to shed their outdated mould. Still we have conservatives lamenting the loss of purity of blood whilst the progressives consider such theories as regressive.

    It is proven in democratic and fledgling societies  that DNA is only a means of identification and not a certificate of greatness, in our busy lives we fail to witness  the abundance of  existence of the truth that opportunity is indeed necessary for achievement and ability is present in all of us in  variety of manner. Nowhere, it is so visible as in the game of golf( I must confess  though that my interest in golf is recent). Even though it is said that the game of golf is a great leveller it is more referred to the unpredictability of the players’ performance and form, the classic case of Tiger woods’ dwindling status is an example. My reference is to caddies who assist in play. Most; at least in India are from poor economic and social background, they work to survive and are in their teens and twenties , but soon pickup the fineness of the game by observing and being on play and advise the novices as well as the established club players. Their advice may not always result in success but their confidence is to be admired.

       Many caddies become great players if given opportunity, Vijay Singh of Fiji is one such example.  Studying their talent and knowledge of the game one wonders as to how they understand in such detail which we learn after much coaching , reading, watching videos whereas they  have been just on the course helping and watching and listening to the established players and thereby learning from them. Indeed, each class has its unique way of learning, some merely afford simple methods others the luxurious ways! Though the game is for the elite it displays that  what people need is opportunity and talent does not belong to a certain class but is  widely prevalent in society waiting for the chance!

  Their  status is similar to that of a respected adviser, a ‘Staff’; a modern day ‘Saarthi’: what ‘Krishna’ was to Arjun . Yes; many may not acknowledge my assessment, it may appear to be far fetched, but it is indeed true. We must remember that Tenzing Norgay the first man to climb the Everest was a ‘porter’ in mountaineering expeditions, but rose to be a ‘climbing partner’ of Sir Edmund Hillary.

YAHOO !! - SHAMMI NO MORE ! LONG LIVE YAHOO !!

YAHOO!!

SHAMMI   IS    DEAD !     LONG   LIVE   YAHOO !

 He was ‘Junglee’, ‘Janwar’, ‘Bluffmaster’, ‘Badtameez’, ‘ Professor’, ‘Prince’, ‘Brahmachari’, ‘Rajkumar’, ‘Latsahab’, ‘Majnu’,, and ‘Pagla Kahi Kaa’. Man , larger than life with western regal looks and Pathan leanage. An exotic charm. Referred lovingly by lovely ladies as Lord Byron!- the great romantic poet of England known for his irresistible looks which disarmed many.

 Perhaps, one of the few actors whose screen persona so very much matched the off screen life. He was indeed quite wild and uncontrollable as the titles of his numerous films suggest; in his hay days of course.

I first saw him in a black and white film titled ‘Hum sab chor hain’, which was screened in our school hall. His thin moustache and neat and lean appearance  I still remember. But, prior to that it was ‘Professor I had seen as a child of six in the cinema hall of Lansdowne. But, for the grand Darshan i had to wait for ‘Junglee’. It was at Palace theatre, civil lines at Allahabad that I saw the film and like the youth of that time and Saira on screen was swept away by the Yahoo! Storm. He was indeed the first dancing star- joy Mukherjee, Jitendra, Mithun and Govinda followed much late , even Shahrukh seems to be greatly influenced by Shammi.

  Actors such as Dilip, Amitabh are known for their acting skills and therefore when we praise  their performance we refer to  the dialogues from their films. In case of Shammi the eternal image is of singing and dancing: ‘Yeh chand sa roshan chehra zulfon ka rang sunhera’ from ‘Kashmir ki Kali’, as he woos  Sharmila   singing  on a Shikara.  Teesri Manzil set the bench mark for musical thrillers , Shammi as Rocky the drummer who sings captivated us with many songs, specially ‘ O hasina zulfon wali jane jahan’ and ‘ Tumne mujhe dekha ho kar meharbaan, ruk gayi ye zameen tham gaya aasman jane man , jane jaan’. For, Brahmachari he won a filmfare award and was one of his last big hits is also known for its music, ‘Mein gaaun tum sojao sukh sapno mein kho jao’, ‘Aaj kal tere mere charche hain zuban par ‘. There are many more.

 He was an urban star and his fame was with the youth like that of Dev Anand . He gave a sense of joy to a generation who searched in cinema  for escape from the reality and also for entertainment, he also provided confidence to  the youth of that time affected by colonial burden.

  Many contributed to his success but since his forte was dance and music the music directors, lyricists and singers are to be credited, chief among them was Mohammad Rafi who sang almost all his songs. Shammi in his interview has paid his gratitude to him , O P Nayyar gave him the initial boost with ‘Tumsa nahi  dekha’ and ‘Kashmir ki Kali’ the later success could be credited to Shankar Jaikishan and Hasrat Jaipuri/ Shailendra- ‘Professor’, ‘Junglee’, ‘An Evening in Paris’, ‘Raajkumar’, ‘Brahmachari’, ‘Andaz’ are some of them.

   Later in his life, he played character roles, grew beard and added much weight- Zameer, PremRog, Vidhata, Betaab, Naseeb are some notable films.

   Star of his stature may be seen again but there will not be any of his style, flourish, élan, robustness and confidence. He set a new status for dance and carried forward the great and unique Indian tradition of performing arts based on movement and music. Yahoo!!

MAHADEV AT COOPERAGE- YAI HAI BOMBAY MERI-JAAN

                                   MAHADEV        AT      COOPERAGE

                                 ‘ YAI     HAI    BOMBAY      MERI   -      JAAN’

                                    This  is Mahadev the Newspaper seller at Cooperage crossing, Bombay.Selling ‘Mid-Day’, at 11.Behind his photo you can see the Statue Of ‘Rajiv Gandhi’, the  PrimeMinister who talked of modern India!  perhaps  the dreamer of modern India!  What an irony!

Mahadev  lives in Machhimar colony opposite the Badhwar park( where Kasab arrived with his gang). He has been selling newspapers since last thirty years. I could only ask his name, where he stays and the years he has been in this profession, before the green light appeared and I had to move. But  Mahadev makes me think , his distinct cap gives him dignity.Indeed this city gives dignity to the downtrodden. People who are oppressed by the class and caste distinction in villages find freedom in this crammed city!

      Mahadev struggles to sustain in South Bombay, from meagre earnings he may be able to save to have a cup of tea in the Persian restaurant at Wodehouse road sometimes or may be managing the ‘cutting chai’. Who would be there in his family? A son !  unemployed ? Would his wife be waiting in the evenings to muster his earning and plan the day(life) ahead? Is it possible that Mahadev would be busting his earnings in ‘country liquor’ neglecting his wife to fend for herself? I am certain sometimes he would be watching cinema at Eros or Regal sitting in the stalls enjoying ‘Buddha hoga tera baap’. That may depend on the sensation the ‘Mid-Day’ may create!

     Will he be ever be able to go back to his village? To commit suicide! He is among the millions who have left their villages in Maharashtra so that now only 40% dwell in villages in the state- Yai Hai Bombay Meri Jaan!

 

    

      

THE MANGO TREE

                                                  



                                               


                                             
                                                  THE   MANGO   TREE

 It  was  one afternoon in Summer during lunch time the casual staff entered with a plate of cut mango, and indeed it was a pleasant surprise to relish fresh ‘hapus’ with my simple Tiffin, he said that it was from his village where his family has a solitary Mango Tree . And I could  understand  that there was this sense of belonging to his village, and I am sure he was proud of his solitary mango tree., why then would he offer that  mango from his solitary tree to me? He conveyed so much!  It enhanced his status! How many of us have a mango tree in our village? Do we know our village?

     This small gesture of his made me think, I wondered that this young man lives in  Mumbai; city of supreme urbanization where there is hardly any space for courtesies and culture, where the demands of survival smother the tenderness of humanity . Therefore in such a milieu  the visit to his village purifies him of urban ills, it cleanses his sensitivity and makes him human once more.

     And the incident took me back to my village in search of my mango tree, far in the  sub- H imalayan terrain in the valley of Garhwal.  And I looked at my mango tree and was told by the villager that this year no mangoes appeared, but I was not disappointed, for I had made my Trip! And I resolved to visit again to remain rooted to my origin  and relish the sweetness of my mango tree.

      We all have our mango tree hidden far away, we must visit our tree for our sustenance and regeneration , or plant one for survival.

YAI HAI BOMBAY MERI JAAN

YE -  HAI        BOMBAY       MERI            JAAN

       

          I n     the    fifties     when   Guru  Dutt   made  C I D  , the famous   Bombay  song  ‘Aye  dil   hai   mushkil    jina  yahan,   ye hai Bombay , yai hai Bombay, yai hai Bombay   meri  -jaan’ written    by   Majrooh Sultanpuri  and  composed by O P  Nayyar caught the imagination of the viewers and has since remained embedded in our collective consciousness. It was sung by Rafi and Gita Dutt and played on Johny Walker and Kum Kum on screen whilst they move on the Victoria on marine drive. The song  represents the difficulties, agony and ecstasy of being in Bombay.

      Since then many songs reflecting the spirit of Bombay have been enacted on Screen. Amitabh Bachhan   enacted  the  famous ‘ Ei   hai bambai  nagaria  tu   dekh  babuwa.........’  in ‘Don’ sung in typical   Avadhi/Allahabadi  dialect it narrated the woes of the eastern migrants. The rap song sung by Javed Jafferi in ‘Bombay Boys’  also made news with its typical Bambai dialect. Bhupender sung ‘ek akela is shehar  mein  raat   mein  ya  dopahar  mein...’ depicting the forlorn and lonely state of Amol Palekar in ‘Gharonda’ also haunts us specially the lines of Gulzar   ‘ Jine ki  jagaha  to koyi  nahi  marne ka  bahana  dhoond  ta  hai  dhoond  ta  hai...’    This was the photograph i took on 18 July at about 0900 near cooperage crossing. The labourers are are loaded in a bulging truck on their way to docks to deliver goods, they seem satisfied with the world- 'yai  hai Bombay  meri  jaan....'

ALVIDA HUSAIN

ALVIDA      HUSAIN

I   had seen   Husain at the  Maganlal Dresswala’s shop at Marine Drive about 12 years ago, where  I  had gone  with my son to rent a Santa Clause dress for the Christmas  celebrations at his school. Husain was there to select  a peak cap for his car driver. I was so awe struck by his presence  that it did not register in me to at least talk to him. I have been his admirer and have always argued in his favour. Later, again I saw him at the Art Gallery at Flora Fountain where his work on Banaras was at  display. When his  troubles regarding painting Hindu Goddess  in nude started I sympathised with him because those opposing him did not understand his genius and treated him ordinarily , he was so prolific and yet unique and we did not realize his true worth, in his lifetime. By dying in London he has in a way replied to the insults and insinuations we hurled at him, now when his fame and popularity will soar with time  and the world will visit his graveyard in London and of course the many works we will rue our reactionary behaviour.

     I am not an Art critic but I regularly visit the Art Galleries of South Mumbai and do make an effort  to visit when works of imminent painters and Artists are on display. Some years ago works of Picasso were at display at the National gallery near Regal and it was at that time I assessed that it was unfair to call Husain as the Indian Picasso because  though both made contemporary Art  and Husain did make horses probably under the influence of Picasso but Husain’s choice and range of colours and his themes were so very varied. He represented  India in his paintings and his distinct colours and strokes set him apart .His colours are so fascinating that whenever I am near the Taj mahal Hotel at Colaba  I cannot curb the urge to visit the Reception counter and admire the orange-red mural made by Husain. Husain was topical too and expressed his appreciation in paint- Madhuri Dixit, Amitabh Bachhan, Raj Kapoor’s Henna, he painted all.  

     I always thought that his religion was Art and those who were against him should have judged him as an Indian and not as a   Muslim. One Newspaper has aptly titled its front page report on his death— ‘ Husain  lives  in  deathless Art ’.

CANNOT SKIRT THIS ISSUE

CANNOT SKIRT THIS ISSUE













The Badminton World Federation has passed a rule that the Women Badminton players will be required to wear skirts in order to play Badminton at International events. This rule is framed apparently to make Badminton more popular. There has been sharp criticism of this new rule from both, the players as well as those associated with the game. The intent behind such a move is evident from the recent news published in the Asian Age of 23 May the news titled ‘ Wear skirts, earn more money, says world body’ . Paisan Rangsikitpho , deputy President of the governing Badminton World Federation

( B W F ) , said , “ The reason we want the skirt regulation is to promote women’s events which are getting less and less popular”. He further said that the bottom line is “ They could earn more sponsorship and more money”.

Sports as a platform to promote corporate and capitalists Aims has been firmly established for many years. We are witnessing its most profound !! manifestation in the Indian Premier League where sportspersons are bought and sold under a hammer. For the sake of money we have allowed ourselves to be sold as commodities. The culture of ‘ cheer leaders’ associated with glitz and glamour has not only robbed sports of its soul but has made it elitist . Sports were introduced in the society to generate a healthy spirit of togetherness and competitiveness to generate good health and camaraderie it also offered lively entertainment and channelized the violent tendencies of humans. The onset of capitalism and the advent of Television which covers every nook and corner of the world has propelled sports to such a level that it has become a vehicle to promote products and is not only linked to sports gear but to many consumer items. Such is the lure of money that Indian politicians control most of the popular sports in order to further their economic and social clout, bitter electioneering is conducted to maintain their hold and ex sportspersons are relegated to peripheral management as the prime seats are occupied by management experts chosen by the political masters.

It is also reported that the advise to go for skirts was rendered by a marketing firm by the name of ‘Octagon’ which confirms the purpose of the change. What is most hurting is that these marketing firms have embarked to convert sports of skill to a mere skin show where they intend to lure wide ranging customers! to watch the skirts fly rather than appreciate the game. We tend to forget but must remind ourselves that the culture of sports in the communist bloc countries of the era gone by was indeed worthy of emulation which made the communist countries foremost in Olympics for many years. The countries achieved high ranking results in many disciplines with the support of State mechanism and not by the corporate cunning.

BARKHA DUTT'S FALL FROM TIGER HILL

BARKHA   DUTT’S   FALL    FROM    TIGER- HILL

The Nira Radia  tapes linking her to  Ratan  Tata,  Barkha Dutt and Vir Sanghvi have shocked a few idealists but have surprised many. The dominant opinion of the elite has veered toward corporate right and for them such acts are routine. But what has surprised all  is not the act but the players. Till very recently Barkha Dutt was like a youth icon . She made her place in the field of media seeking truth with determination. It was in the Kargil war that she was discovered  reaching right atop on hills with our soldiers reporting their acts of valour. She won awards and appreciation of people who saw her regularly on NDTV  taking up issues close to the society asking tough questions to politicians , bureaucrats , imminent citizens and scholars etc. There was this earnestness in her demeanour which earned her respect. But; with the release of Radia tapes she has lost it.

     In the present times when corruption is being revealed routinely the Society is helpless and numb, they do not know where to look for help and to do what next. In the fall of Barkha Dutt they see a loss of innocence. They tolerated her brashness and rudeness and often ignorance for she was serving a purpose but now it seems that all this while she was not what she looked ! She is also being perceived as a person who could not handle power and the responsibility which comes with the profession of a journalist. The response from the media seems to be muted. There was an article by Nihal Singh condemning her and Vir Sanghvi,  Khuswant Singh also wrote giving them the benefit of doubt and taking the incident very lightly.

   What comes out quite clearly in this episode is that the media is protective of its flock and do not desire to aggravate the matter further . As one sees on the television Barkha Dutt continues with her duties in a routine way seemingly unperturbed  and even the politicians have not hounded her which seems prima facie surprising. But it is clear to me that this lady has lost her moral authority to question any citizen for wrong doing. It seems amusing that Pranoy Roy has not reigned  nor curtailed her area of operations as she conducts programme on varying topical subjects with the usual elan talking  to the cross- section of community.Sometimes I expect a participant to raise the issue of Radia tapes and seek  her version of the story, it will certainly be justifiable! Or is it that I am overreacting? But then where does the buck stop?

       This powerful fourth state with unbridled powers should be made accountable to the people who remain glued to their blabber .

  As I publish this post the Public Accounts Committee headed by Shri Murli Manohar Joshi have summoned and questioned Ratan Tata and Nira Radia, but  the ray of hope  is from Anna Hazare who is presently on hunger strike demanding bill on formation of Lokpal to be drafted and tabled in Parliament, many imminent citizens have joined him and therefore it  is a test of their strength and resolve and also of the issue of corruption will be examined and it will be seen that how many people are  ready to contribute in the movement for reformation.

     This entire series of exposure has further convinced me that  Capitalism is essentially a corrupt system and as it gets stronger it gets more subtle and sophisticated like the newly discovered ‘superbug’ in Delhi by the U K Scientist which is immune to all known antibiotics !

   

CRICKET NATIONALISM

CRICKET  NATIONALISM

        I  am  no great cricketing fan but am often swayed by the collective emotion of the nation. Am concerned only when Tendulkar is batting as i was to hear radio commentary only when Gavaskar or Vishvanath were at crease. My response to cricket is in fact mixed. Many times I  hate it being the legacy of the English elite, at times am compelled to consider it as a unifying factor in a large and heterogeneous  Nation. Therefore when my friend offered me an invite for the Zubin Mehta show at Tata Theatre without even considering it I politely declined. I did not want to be  a bag of emotion at show  with my heart and mind at Mohali where India and Pakistan were to play the world cup semi-finals.

        At about ten thirty in the evening when finally India won the match I along with my family members heaved a sigh of relief. But; by then Mumbai had erupted, the sound of crackers, clapping and collective slogan shouting could be heard from far. In the atmosphere of jubilation I suggested to my wife and children that we should go for ice  cream to marine drive  to which they all agreed .

        On my reaching Mantralaya what I witnessed was unimaginable, there were thousands of motorcycles and hundreds of cars which had converged to marine drive in a sort of victory procession an impromptu rally appeared from nowhere and was moving collectively in joy. Some of them carried huge flags and were shouting patriotic slogans , there was this atmosphere of great culmination, and at that instance I thought  that what would have happened to all this surge of emotion had we lost the match !

       We did reach the ice- cream parlour in half an hour which normally would have taken five minutes  and I realized that had I not volunteered to visit this place I would have missed this human confluence at sea side. Marine drive in Mumbai is indeed a symbol of celebration, a few days ago the Bohra Muslims of the city had lined up at marine drive to celebrate the 100^th birthday of their religious leader. But; this celebration on victory in cricket was a secular celebration and therefore was unique. It indeed is a unifying force. At  one end it helps Manmohan Singh  to divert the attention of the opposition from the increasing exposures and clandestine deals  by engaging Pakistan in cricket diplomacy and at the other end are these collection of humanity irrespective of class ,creed and colour participating in a victory being symbolised as National victory. And yet at one end are these corporate giants and celebrity  in their private jets lined up at Airport, it is reported that there were about 90 private jet Aircraft which had landed in Chandigarh they too wanted to have a piece from the publicity cake - --Vivek Oberoi, Nita Ambani and Aamir Khan.

   Once National movement such as Dandi march united the Nation today it is cricket and cinema which keeps us together.