MAMTA MOURNS DEMISE OF BASU

MAMTA MOURNS DEMISE OF BASU


The strength of one’s reputation can best be ascertained from the opinion of one’s critics/rivals. And if your rival happens to be as bitter and brash as Mamta Bannerjee then no laurels or respite be expected. But the contribution and charisma of Jyotida compelled even Mamta to exercise caution. Her remarks therefore were respectful and restrained, diplomatic too.

She said “ Jyoti Basu was the first and last of the left leaders “.
Knowing the volatile relationship between her party and Left she could not have even hinted any appreciation of Left and therefore in her praise of Jyoti Basu she has conveyed that hereinafter no one else is of that stature. There is a definite taunt toward the other Left leaders in her tribute to the departed leader. I consider her homage to be sincere even though she may have said it as if addressing to the vast rural population of Bengal whom Basu did liberate with his consistent policy of Land reforms, though partially. Despite the failure of left in recent times she could not have afforded to annoy the masses who still revere Jyoti Basu.

Death indeed is a leveller and we forget our conflicts and antagonisms for sometime at least. It humanises us. Mamta was brutally assaulted in the writers building in 1996 whilst protesting against the Left regime of Jyoti Basu, that injury is deeply imbedded in her. It will only be redeemed when she is crowned the Queen of Bengal after the Assembly elections, which is a possibility. Ideological differences notwithstanding the left activated its nemesis the day it assaulted Mamta. Thereafter this lady with single minded determination defeated them in many battles – Nandigram, Singur and finally the recent Lok Sabha polls. The War is yet to be faught.

In her statement is hidden her anger for left and all left leaders who for her do not exist. Therefore Jyoti Basu was the first and last leader, and rest do not matter to her. The left and its leaders including Jyoti Basu always disregarded her, considered her as an irritant . So she conveys through her statement that only Jyotida was ideology, party and in his demise the left with its leaders and ideology too is dead . An incorrect statement as Left lives on and so will its leaders and we will await for some ‘Jyoti’ to lead us which Jyoti Basu could not.

Perhaps the greatest contribution of Jyoti Basu is that he made left leades acceptable to many sceptics who were constantly suspicious of Marxists by his wise administration of 23 years. It is also true that in his journey of more than two decades many flaws mushroomed which lead to the decline of his party; his protégé too lacked his charisma. His commitment to panchayati Raj and land reforms and substantial success too remains a challenge to all budding politicians.

I wonder how will Mamta feel when she will finally trounce the tottering regime of left and takes oath as the Chief Minister , for there will not be Jyoti Basu who inspired her resolve.

WE LIVE AND LEARN -- VISIT TO GOA

WE LIVE AND LEARN




It was more of a learning experience than entertainment during my recent vacation to Goa.
Since some time my wife and daughter ( son wants to travel with friends; too old for parents to handle ), have been taunting and teasing me that I never take the family out on vacation and if at all I do , it is to Tirth Sthans ( Holy places ). So in order to reconstruct my image ; just prior to the year ending when my LTC was about to lapse I took the plunge and managed to book to and fro tickets by Air to Goa. Was also lucky to get accommodation at Naval Mess despite heavy booking.
In the past I had visited Goa for short durations mostly on board ships . Our outings were therefore be limited to Bogmallo beach where most of us ship officers would find each other invariably in the evenings. The standard Goan food consisting of fish curry and rice accompanied by Beer or Aalay was relished and then return to our ships to sail the next day to Mumbai or Kochi.
Influence of Portuguese in my mind was limited to knowledge of wine and dine only. I was aware of the Goan liberation movement and had also watched Khwaja Ahmad Abbas’s ‘ Saat Hindustani’. In a lecture I attended during ‘Maritime History conference’ I remember that one speaker described the atrocities and cruelties of Portuguese on Indian subjects. The fact is that they ruled the place for 450 years and influenced the economy, society and culture of Goa.My guide at old Goa told me that there were about 35% Christians in Goa, which speaks of the penetration of Portuguese influence on Society.However I wondered that as British presence in India could be felt and seen in various facets still! Which was not case with Portuguese. British impact being on the language, architecture, the vast bureaucracy they created, education , religion custom and manners. The most important being that we can still interact with the human remnants of Raj --- Anglo Indians of British origin and some British themselves such as Mark Tully and Ruskin Bond .My Head Master in school was an Irish Brother. But to understand Goa and its Portuguese influence there remains no direct human medium, only the large number of Indians they converted. The football influence is distinct. I have yet to see or talk to any Portuguese or to an Anglo Indian of Portuguese root.

Therefore I attempted to understand and assimilate Goa from its surroundings. During the four days when I visited the various places north and south of Panjim it was by the Architecture that I was struck; churches and chapels were indeed different from the stone cathedrals of British India. The Goan churches were large, there was external simplicity and at many places white lime was applied to the walls. Inside the gold paint at the altar, pulpit attracted my attention. The Structures were as if conveying well ! this is how mankind should be – external simplicity but heart of Gold! Government neglect and casual attitude of archaeological department was also visible. What enchanted me the most were the beautiful design of Goan homes spread along the long beach side surrounded by coconut trees. Similar such houses , cottages , bungalows I had seen in Kochi too but here the number was more and were homogeneously spread out . The tiled- sloping roof in harmony with the setting, glasswork, design of doors and windows , the balanced work indeed was pleasing. Fine mind of cruel? Rulers ! Another noticeable feature were the temples of Goa. Bold, wonderful colours in praise of God, similar to Kerala, but just. Small chapels/holy crosses along the way added to the serenity of the surroundings.

We had Goan food at numerous places. Small huts and smart restaurants but standard was strikingly same . The new feature is the influx of resident foreign tourist, who akin to migratory birds make Goa their home for the winter months sustaining on Indian warmth. They moved in hired scooters/bikes bare chest in conformity with the freedom and frolic of the place.
Prolonged presence of foreign tourists is slowly changing the colour and complexion of beaches and its approaches. The glossy shops selling Indian goods have cornered much of prime area virtually clouding the simplicity and nativity of semi urban setting. The well lit and colourful restaurants at Condolem beach could easily compete with that of Fremantle or any such foreign locale. Rates were reasonable and food variety and quality was good.

Multitude of middle class Indian tourist also visit Goa , but we seem to be in such hurry while on vacation that meaning of true leisure eludes us. Probably with some more prosperity and commercialism we will imbibe the taste and talent of English holidayers. On occasions I am compelled to think that we seem to tour only for status symbol, in order to show off ; dutifully completing the planned programme so that places visited could be ticked off as important jobs completed. Hoards of buses converge toward important beaches muscling their way through slim country roads unfit for such aggression in order to satisfy the search of Indian tourists for themselves !

Goa too cannot escape the eternal flux of time no matter how we conservatives! lament, this change is inevitable. The only redeeming feature of this process seems to be that the common man is gaining economically, his state is improving. The famous food of Goa which was its hallmark is giving way to multi-cuisine culture catering to the widening tourist strength. The old houses are being refurbished to international taste, new construction in Panjim has mounted the small hills.

I returned happy my family seems to have enjoyed. What I carried with me was the fact that there are certain good influences of any culture we should not ignore. I wondered as to why the people of Goa were so friendly and peaceful was it result of Portuguese life style influence? However Portugal still remains remote to me it is still distant in my mind, I will continue to make attempts in my subsequent visits to fathom this distant conqueror!

CREDIT AND COMPETENCE

CREDIT AND COMPETENCE


The credit controversy regarding story of ‘Three Idiots’ seems to have resolved but since the subject is of reoccurring nature it needs some discussion. Such credit related issues are part of the very functioning of our film industry; film making being collective and creative! Venture.
In the case of ‘ Three Idiots ‘ I think that no matter what the terms of agreement between Chetan Bhagat and film producer were he should have been given story credit during the main titles of the film and not in the last. Because even though the scenes from his book in the film were limited the film idea was germinated from his book.
The story once sold to film is the property of a new person and he shapes it according to his desire. Cinema and story writing are also different creative expressions. The unit of story is ‘word’ whereas that of cinema is ‘sound ’and ‘image’. Therefore in the process of presenting the story on screen a new personality is acquired which is so different from the origin and yet its originality is retained for the seed belongs to the original story writer and therefore the rightful credit. It is akin to giving your child for adoption to new parents, the child is now in a new environment and will shape up according to the aspirations of his new parents , the original parent have no further say on the matter and yet no matter what the child acquires at new home he carries their seed their ‘DNA’ .Must not some credit be given to the biological parents ? Are they not responsible for his success or failure?
Why it was not given its rightful place is subject of examination. To my mind the inherent insecurity among film makers could be the reason. Despite much success and fame and talent too film makers such as Hirani and Vidhu Vinod Chopra feel so insecure that they do not wish to share their success even with legitimate contributor . It is believed that many talented and aspiring writers lend their ideas and expression to reknowned directors before they are allowed to claim their credit even though partially. What goes on is simply ‘exploitation’ unabashedly. Are we not aware that knowing the limits of Vinod Chopra’s talent that he is incapable of penning screenplay of the film and yet his name appears as one of the screenplay writers of ‘ three idiots’. Along with the money our filmmakers need creative security too which comes by denying to others.
Truly competent and confident directors offer their talent to others for them to make fame . Does it require some special survey to understand that ‘Hum Dono’ was the creation of Vijay Anand and not of Amarjeet to whom it was credited. Guru Dutt never took credit for ‘Sahib Bivi Gulam’ though his personality pervades the film and there are many others who posses true talent and were not mere creepers.

RELIGIN AND SOCIETY

RELIGION AND SOCIETY


The President of the French Republic Mr Sarkojy made a very bold and undiplomatic comment about a month ago on wearing of burkha by muslim women by stating that it reflected backwardness. It seemed a comment loaded with ideology for goodness as perceived by the President.However,I was amazed by such a statement from a politician of our times. One noted that even though as head of State the leader should be sensitive to the culture of minority he chose to speak his mind and therefore was a serious propagator of social reforms even if it meant displeasing many. However his recent reported remarks on ‘ religious ostentatations’ reflected his shortsightedness wherin he stated that he will oppose those who challenge the ‘christian roots and republic’ of France. Such a strong statement do not behove a President of a State which has set standards in modern society and therefore made him a commoner . Like any citizen he too was protective of his religious roots and therefore was opposed to the social symbols of other religions. For a moment I saw no difference between him and our rightist politicians who talk of safeguarding of Hindu religion. .And one wonders as to what is superior ‘Religion’ or ‘Republic’. Does republic stands on religious foundation or on Secular principles? And the foundation of French Republic is based on the slogan of French Revolution – ‘Equality-Liberty- Fraternity’.
It is indeed ironical that it was the same France which gave political asylum to Ayatullaha Khomeni who set up an Islamic regime in Iran. But; then France had tradition to support people’s resistant movement all over the world. We forget! That Lenin the Russian Revolutionary was in France planning his Great October Revolution after the failed attempt in 1905. The leaders of the Chinese revolution –zhow en lie was also given shelter in France.

CASTING AND CREATIVITY IN --- CINEMA

          CASTING AND CREATIVITY IN - CINEMA

Though the Director is the ultimate decision maker in cinema; the casting director plays a vital role in realization of what is conceived in screenplay. Correct casting is an important key to the creation of one’s conception. It brings alive the structure and puts it in flesh and blood on screen .It is difficult to say as to what would have been the result if instead of Marlon Brando some one else was cast in the role of the legendary ‘Godfather’ because the role was so perfectly portrayed. The very presence of Brando uplifted the film . Similarly, Topol was so well cast in ‘Fiddler on the Roof ‘ that despite many characters the movie is identified with him. On the contrary there are imminent Directors who work with a set of actors in most movies; because they have tremendous faith in their script and they too feel comfortable amongst friends and protégé. Satyajit Ray cast Soumitra Chatterji in most of his films. Martin Scorsese had Robert De Niro as his protagonist. Though; some consider actors and even stars as mere props to execute the Director’s vision. Roberto Rossellini cast non actors to drive home his point . Historical charaters pose a different challenge to Directors as public image of the person is prevalent in the minds of the audience; the challenge is to balance one’s creativity with the popular appeal. George C scott achieved the vision in ‘ The Patton ‘ essentially with the brilliant screenplay of Francis Cappola . In Hindi cinema the role of Akbar played by Prithvi Raj Kapoor established the image of the famous emperor in the consciousness of the Indian people – a case of perfect balance and casting.

Though many Directors in Hindi films merely succumb to the stereotypes, moreso when dealing with minor characters. So we see the lean and tough Iftikhar playing the role of commissioner of police whilst Jagdish Raj had to satisfy with the role of an Inspector. Characters of Doctor, Pandit and similar such roles are assigned to a set of actors permanently—good old bald headed David performed as Doctor in numerous films. Reduced now; owing to the surge of ‘Saas- Bahu’( daughter -in -law v/s mother -in-law) soaps on TV;  ‘Mothers’ played an important role enacted by a set motherly actors. Lalita Pawar, Nirupa Roy and Sulochana excelling in their flow of emotions.

Minor characters act as a link to the major action or to the confluence of action. They are distinct landmarks to the destination and therefore should be well crafted. ‘ Sholay’ the most popular and successful Hindi film of the last millennium is remembered for its ‘characters’- ‘ Ramu Kaka’, ‘Mausi’ and ‘Sambha’ and of  course  'Gabbar', 'Viru' and ' Basanti' . Films which have entertained generations after generations are those which give regard to the minor characters. Those who treat minor characters as mere fillers have short shelf life and lack in totality. Inadequacy in characters and characterization  leads to deficiency in story and screenplay, thus hampering the appeal  and thereby success of the film.


Among the many abilities of Raj Kapoor as a great film maker was his casting sense. Though commercial considerations play a dominant role in hindi cinema Raj looked for the suitability and of course ability. Two of his films suffice at what I intend to convey. ‘Mera Naam Joker’ failed commercially but the casting of Dharmendra as the Boss of the Circus was apt and was proved on screen with his refined announcements, attractive built to match the Russian Artists and the overall sophistication in command . The portrayal of David's character  by Manoj Kumar,the fiancé of Raj’s beloved teacher was a pleasant surprise; easy going, subtle and understanding the emotions of his rival !. Few would have suggested his name at the writing stage. Only Raj could fathom the ability of the available talent. And there could be examples and examples. Simi ; as the class teacher is discussed to this day . The casting of ‘Bobby’ is a lesson in the Department of Casting. Premnath as a loud large hearted rum loving Konkan fisherman. Prem Chopra as a mean villain was redesigned by Raj and remains unforgettable for his tiny role but terrorizing presence.Pran as matter of factly father, ‘Sonia Sahni’ as a glamorous and glossy mother, Durga Khote as loving and loyal Nanny contributed in equal measure for the success of this landmark love Saga which liberated the Indian Youth.

Finally; the hallmark of a casting Director and in our case the Director himself is his sharp creative insight in assessing and sizing up his actors. Greatness of a Director is executing the conception in Screenplay with the ability of the Actors so that they rise above the script.

AWAMI IDRA ( PUBLIC INSTITUTION )--- MARXISM AND URDU IN PRESENT TIMES

AWAMI- IDRA ( PUBLIC- INSTITUTION ) -- MARXISM AND URDU IN PRESENT TIMES


It was a touching piece of news in TOI, Mumbai titled ‘ From Trotsky To Tailoring ‘. It reported the depravity of the institution in present times which once inspired the mill workers toiling for better tomorrow. Perhaps the only Urdu library in Mumbai in the Muslim mill worker colony in Parel. It started in fifties in close cooperation with IPTA ( Indian Peoples’ Theatre Association ) . At Idra the mill -workers would get together and engage in discussions and other intellectual activity dreaming of their time to come; often distinguished poets such as Kaifi Azmi and Prem Dhawan would compose songs for them which they would sing to instil revolutionary zeal among people. With the ’best of times’ no more and market economy succeeding intellectualism the members of Idra have arranged tailoring classes for young and unemployed to enable them whilst they search for themselves in the old photographs recollecting the times no more . On the occasion of May Day ( 01 May , International labours’ day ) they celebrate by organizing health camps etc thus paying tribute to their ideology and ideals.

Indeed Marxism has fallen on bad times and so has Urdu . Is there a link or its mere sad coincidence? Are these two following the natural course of birth childhood, youth ,decay old age and death or there is hope of revival ? Urdu remains symbol of Hindu and Muslim confluence; result of interaction and mingling of two cultures. In society there is something we consciously design such as the various laws and there is something which happens naturally ; gets created; Urdu is one such thing. It represents which is finest in Hindi , Sanskrit, Persian as it developed when Hindus and Muslims desired to talk for they wanted to talk, for it was natural to talk and so a new words and phrases resulted, gradually Urdu developed into a language of its own and became the official language , the language of courts and courting ! as well . Yes it remains the language of lovers, of poetry and divinity. Of anger , protest and revolution ! And then it became so dear that the politicians took possession of it and was wounded in the aftermath of partition for it was uprooted from the land of its origin and clubbed with religious identity .What remained here suffered the fate of the minority; remained a suspect, propped up occasionally for populist purposes. Urdu which along with Hindi was transforming into Hindustani, a language spoken by majority of the Indians and had large acceptability had potential to be the true National language; but the opportunity was lost .
The fate of Marxism has been similar to that of Urdu, though it has larger area of operation for an ideology of Political economy it affected both Science and Art. Marx can be rated as the most influential philosopher of 19th and 20th century. His theory transcended from paper to proletariat, vast nations built their foundation on it. Today the two biggest subscribers of its ideology have succumbed to capitalism. Despite the setback it brought dramatic and swift improvement in socio-economic lives of millions of people though some people suffered the discipline which flowed with it. But; the ideology is still alive and inspires many for Marxism is a way of life. It changed attitude of people toward people. It challenges all the social ills which are prevalent -- castism ,communalism, regionalism, racism etc. It certainly makes people better humans but it requires sacrifice, certain renunciation which the world of competition and market economy do not believe. We have witnessed the change of human character after the ideology was abandoned in Bosnia; Chechnya and many such places. Therefore Marxism is an ideology which still has hope but one does lament its downfall.

Both Marxism and Urdu made fine human beings , refined societies and need to be nurtured. There is a Urdu couplet on the declining state of the language which is apt for Marxism as well it translates
….” Urdu has become like a prostitute in a market; everyone wants to enjoy her but there is no one who professes love for her …


Marxism and Urdu need to be loved again for societies to save themselves from consumerism and communalism.

REACHING OUT – LEADER AND THE ART OF ROUSING THE PEOPLE

It was once again so demoralizing to listen to the dull and drab;( well meaning though) utterances of our dear Prime Minister in yet again Independence day speech. It was such a sorry sight to watch him labor his way with simple Hindustani words as he read out the Independence day speech to the nation on 15 Aug 2009 . Among the many commonalities between Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh is their lack of communication skill which is indeed the most predominant and visible to the ever expectant public. Both are poor public speakers and have to be fed with words; at least in Hindustani.

What probably makes their task even more difficult is that they do not seem to be writing their speeches. For if one writes talking/ delivering becomes easy and more convincing. It adds conviction to the speech. Even if the quality of voice and style may be moderate. It is on such instances that the concept of philosopher- king advocated by Plato comes to mind. Plato had argued that a leader should be a thinker too; only then could be his reach be long and lasting.

Nehru; was perhaps the only leader who would qualify to be the King – philosopher. His writings and speeches inspire the people world over even today. He had an original view on every subject which mattered the nation and which carries meaning to this day. He too started slowly and initially was a shy speaker; but because he could think and feel he could convey. It is such a pathetic sight to watch the planted leaders!

The problem of Manmohan Singh is that being a Professor of Economics enables him to fluently comment in English; but effective he is not for he is not known to be a thinker;a warm hearted person who could feel for the people

What is expected on an Independence day is a rousing speech.We do not remember when we last witnessed it? Atalji did inspire us initially but later was struggling with poor health. VP Singh did deliver an effective solitary performance but all that was drained down by his ill intent. Mrs Gandhi did motivate the masses for she could speak their language and feel for them.

The bottom line remains that a political leader has to be an effective speaker. And for that he is to be an original thinker who should have sufficient ‘warmth ‘ to convey his thinking so that it reaches their heart.

Our leaders should know the difference between addressing a press conference and addressing their Nation.