BRAMHA TEMPLE AT PUSKAR

BRAHMA’S ONLY ABODE

“ PUSKAR”

BRAHMA considered to be the First God of the Hindu Trinity has just one popular Abode on earth in PUSKAR about 13 km from Ajmer in Rajasthan State. The temple structure dates to 14^th century but the original temple is believed to be 2000 years old, Sage Vishwa Mitra built it after performing Brahma Yagna and Sage Adi Shankara renovated this temple in 8^th century. According to several legends in Hindu mythology various causes supposed to have prevented Brahma from being ritualistically worshipped on earth like the other two Trinity SHIVA AND VISHNU. I have selected two ancient legends from many:-

Image and Legend:

Brahma the Hindu God of creation symbolizes that he is foundation of all knowledge required for the creation of the universe. The four arms represent the four directions that the Lord is omnipresent and omnipotent. The four faces of Lord Brahma represent the holy knowledge of the four Vedas (Riga, Yajur, Sama and Atharva)

Lord BRAHMA was very liberal and could be pleased when prayed to without much thought granted boons/favors to deadly demons from Hiranyakashipu to Ravana which made them singularly notorious in destroying the noble virtues on earth it then became necessary for Lord Vishnu to appear in various reincarnations to eliminate those demons. Lord Brahma was at one time as per the legend become the sole god of worship for the demons, as a result Brahma’s worship declined amongst religious devotees

The white beard conveys wisdom; he carries a rose and a book of vedas in the upper hand, a water pot in one lower hand and another lower hand to bestow grace. Brahma the God of creation and knowledge which encourages constant discussion and criticism including self doubt was not accepted for ritual worship, although Brahma is one of the Trinity but is found to exist more in scriptures than in homes and temples.

The priest have to follow a strict religious practice who must represent parashar gotra (lineage), only ascetics can perform the puja to the deity Lord Brahma. All offering just few selected flowers by pilgrims are given that too from the outer hall of the temple through a priest who is a sanyasi not married. Only once a year on Kartik poornima (Oct-Nov), a religious festival is held in Brahma’s honor.

Historical Reason:

Despite the fact that Brahma is one of the Trimurthis he has just one abode on earth (apart from Bharmlok in Haven) at Puskar, puranas reasons that Brahma cult existed in pre-vedic Hinduism and was superseded by Shiva-Vishnu cult later, and the combination of the God and his shakti has made the Brahma concept redundant.

Our pundit/priest (a mediatory agent between human and deities) chanted out mantras for peace of the departed soul, was a married Brahman made us offer a basket to the Lord Brahma which had offering of sweet, fruits, fabric, flowers and separate settled cash amount which I later realized was contrary to the religious traditions originally framed by our Seers to seek the blessing from the First Lord of Hindu Trinity. 

DARBAR SHAHIB

I and Hema were at Hari Mandir Sahib also known as Darbar Shahib the Golden Temple recently, the view majestic incredibly stunning and exceedingly beautiful the temple Dome is glided with 750 kg of pure Gold, the 2 storey temple located in the centre of the Amritsar city having marble walkway, surrounded with large pool of water “AMRIT SAROVAR” housing the sacred ADI GRANTH Holy Scripture. One of the most remarkable features of the Guru Granth Sahib is that it contains the writing of persons belonging to different communities, caste, faith for instance Kabir the Muslim weaver/poet, Surdas (blind poet) Namdev from Maharashtra, Saint Ravidass the shoe maker, Bhagat  Sadhana the butcher, Dhanna cultivator from Rajasthan these holy men cover a period of six centuries from 12^th to 17^th century, all have equal status as the hymns of the Guru. The main hymn the JAPJI, the Guru Manter was written by Guru Nanak. The Gurus considered worship through music the best means of attaining a state of bliss. There are basically three prominent methods to recite Granth Sahib, one on a special occasion to be recited nonstop from cover to cover by a string of readers in 48 hrs which is known as AKHAND PATH, another SAPTAHAK PATH daily reading to be completed in 7 days and the third SEHAJ PATH easy reading can be completed at any length of period beyond 7 days. The main theme of the Sikh region which I understood from my friend Jasbir Singh Matta are:-

a)      To relieve subjects particularly Hindus from the caste system, to worship non idolatrous God, free from meaningless form of rituals. Nanak said if God is a stone I will worship a mountain. The easiest way to find peace was by meditation and singing the hymns (Kirtans)   

b)      Spiritual life does not demand one to be ascetic by fasting or denial of food; and believed that any person discharging his obligation to his family and society had a good chance of attaining salvation.

Since God is infinite he could not die to be reincarnated nor could he assume human form which is subject to decay and death. God, Nanak believed was NIRANKAR (formless) hence could not be defined.

Darbar Sahib, feeds upto 1,00,000 people per day from the free kitchen run by volunteers and this has been going on for 450 years. Women have complete equality and can aspire to be the head of their religion.

Sikhism is very simple for the masses to understand the first 5 Gurus and the Guru Granth was propounded by men who were too modest to claim kinship with God, compared to Vedas, Upniashids and Puranas the masses knew little because of sanskritisation the learning of which was exclusively with Brahmin, Saints and Teachers; and the other five Gurus had to put up resistance against onslaught of Islam which led to martyrs in Arjun, Tegh Bhadur and sons of Guru Gobind and thousands of baptized khalsa

Sikhism has a semblance to Hinduism and some of Islam the Granth carries simple spiritual message for the masses to understand which perhaps is not so among the various world religion.

DHABHA to IOWA 80

Like civilization which has evolved overtime along the banks of great rivers, the DHABAS have mushroomed along the highway buzzing with traffic activity. The last occasion I drove was on the old Mumbai – Pune highway, there existed “Toni Da Dhaba” located just before entering Lonawala region. The typical ‘Dhaba’ is one where the eating area is open on all sides, covered over head (temporarily). The high light of the meal turned out to be JALEBIS AND RABADI, prepared in Pure deshi ghee. This delicacy is available at several Dhabas en route to Delhi from Jaipur on NH-8- particularly after crossing BEHROR. While driving on National Express Highway to Pune, I was bit dismayed to note this time that Dhabas have given way to structured restaurant, catering to fast food concepts.

Dhabas were traditionally characterized by mud structures and cots to sit upon (Chaarpai) one first needed to squat on the cot and have food. It was essentially for serving lorry drivers with water and local cuisine inexpensive and homemade feel to it. Since most drivers are of Punjabi descent, and Punjabi food specially heavily – spiced and DAL fried with pure ghee and  lassi (Thick Butter Milk) this Punjabi fare was preferred by all motorist and truck driver, driving on the Highway. It is often remarked that wherever a Punjabi goes to settle his food follows. Traditionally the majority Punjabis took to the wheel of the truck and ventured into transportation trade, there followed the need to feed and provide shelter to these drivers plying trucks; large chunks of land were leveled by the farmers who recognized the commercial worth of their properties; one of the Dhaba I visited a couple of years ago located on Jodpur – Bikaner highway Rajwada ka Dhaba were I relished having MAWA KA KACHORI is a sweet made of mawa stuffed in Kachori. It is a dish originated from Jodhpur by Rawat family now having a large chain of sweets meat outlets known as Rawat Mistan Bhandar they have another variety of snacks known PYAJ KI KACHORI. Today you will notice a diverse range of Dhabas with a touch of local flavor dot the map of India from Kashmir to Chennai. Around middle of 20^th century when United States created under Marshal Plan interstate highway system when they made possible to drive from east coast to the west coast road side restaurant came up much like Dabha, affluence reached the sidelines of those highways through improvised eateries – entrepreneurs like IOWA – 80 launched into a programme to create tourism node along the roads they are now equipped with rooms and all amenities for night stop offering safe parking, good food, plenty of entertainment including medical and dental care. The West to East coast  road travel by the duo and vice versa solo journey undertaken in less than five days by Aswin- Mirdula and later by Vaidya-Archana covering almost 7000 Km and recently by Susan - Ramani the adventure was hassle free and enjoyable. I think IOWA-80 will be the next destination of INDIAN DHABA - 1940’s.

“Indomitable CVG” my Uncle

I, like many of you, cannot believe that my father’s younger brother Gopalakrishnan is no more. As I continue to brood over it, I remain sunk in thoughts about the world he has gone to which everyone is eventually bound perhaps till then it will remain for the rest of us “an undiscovered destination from which no traveler returns” My father Veeraghavan “CVV” and his two younger brothers “CVG” and “CVS” all towered over 6 feet so also my aunts were taller than me with stunning looks and those who met them first could never take their eyes off them for quite a while. CVG was witness to great, unfolding history as a former special correspondent of “THE HINDU” in New Delhi in 1964 and stayed on till 2002 when he was 75. It was a very long duration which a management like “THE – HINDU” of Kasturi believed “Ripeness is all and the best is yet to be”. Similarly my father served “THE – HINDU” for 20 years a second stint after retiring from state government services at 58 so also CVS the youngest as a off-shore oil and natural gas special correspondent “The Hindu became a part of their existence”. CVG was a daring journalist, he was given valuable assignment in almost every country in the world including UNO and the then Soviet Union. I remember two significant incidents one being the Janta coalition that gained power at the centre following emergency and parliament members like Madhu Limaye, Krishankant and Geoge Fernades pulled out of Janta party forcing Morarji Deasi to resign from office and retire from politics on the issue of Dual membership (Specifically those members of the Janta party who had been members of the Jan Sangh and continued to be members of Rashtirya  Swayamsevak  Sangh). Madhu Limaye a follower of Ram Manohar Lohiya a socialist was a powerful politician along with Charan Singh and fellow traveler George Fernades was responsible for the collapse of Morarji Deasi government. CVG confronted Madhu Limaye at the central hall of the parliament and openly rebuked him for bringing down the government which was instrumental in securing second independence after emergency was imposed by the congress government. The another incident was of Maharani Gayatridevi the London born queen of Jaipur perhaps one of the most elegant person in the world who in her palace lived a charmed life in lily pool among her daisies and horses was jailed and slogged for 19 months during emergency, CVG had the courage to call on her at the height of emergency and during the meeting time assignment by prison authorities asked the maharani lodged at women wing of Tihar Jail Delhi, what she wants him to do, she smiled and told CVG all she needs is a clean towel and a soap. CVG wrote subsequently that Gayatridevi dignity never failed  during her captivity. A voracious reader and reviewer of fresh literary publications, at ease with both economic and political coverage. He was very apprehensive and critical about massive investment in public sector undertaking by Govt of India His dispatches were prompt- events of parliament and press conferences during that era used to appear in the morning papers when the accredited correspondents used to reach the nearest post offices for getting their coverage transmitted through teleprinter. He used to relish Tiffin at The Hindu office canteen particularly ‘ Pakoras’ and ones drew the attention of Moynihan the US Ambassador in New Delhi during a reception at embassy  premises that he finds no difference in taste of Fish Pokora and the canteen Pokora of The  Hindu since he has mistakenly consumed the other one. Once during a recess at UNO, a gardener approached him for a tip, CVG for a moment looked around and handed him a few dollars and told him that our Government is currently negotiating for a grant at your IMF section of the building with a bowl, pray for our nation to get something worthwhile today. He is also sorely missed in the current national’s financial and political turmoil

CVG lived a life as rich as it was long and has left us to cherish the ever - lasting memories which TIME cannot rob. 

" DRAVIDIAN'S OF FAR EAST"

Which way,option, straight or to the left- I thanked and said left he pressed the signal post indicator button, a White Palm Symbol flashed; right of way electronically given for the pedestrians to cross the busy junction. You are now in West Desmoines ,well, where do you live! though surprised as not yet formally introduced I looked up and mumbled giving a very precise location "North- West", you have come a long way for your evening stroll extending a friendly gesture for a conversation.I am on annual sojourn from Mumbai -India; he responded authoritatively ' I Siva a Tamilian' my ancestors migrated somewhere from the present South India region 650 years ago but I have never been to India; brought up near the boarders of Thailand and Malaysia- educated in Australia ,here on a assignment for almost 7 years. We speak Tamil at home, my children in college and wife a teacher also a prolific Tamil writer. We are looking forward to visit India later this winter. Awesome introduction. I too wanted to be bit Ancient and thus continued ,I am a Tamil  Brahman  my ancestors hailed from " Kalpati " bordering Tamilnadu and Kerala state ( the only remote region I could authentically extend), brought up in Thar desert of Rajasthan state , settled in Mumbai and our two children happily married to gentle South Indian  Brahman family now settled in America. My wife is the only person in our family who practiced Carnatic music and likes devotional songs can read and write Tamil.We met a few times and conversed in Tamil, he observed that my Tamil is slightly flawed and remarked that it looks as if you have picked up the language later probably from your wife.However I was positively intrigued and keen to explore the cause of migration  800 to 1200 years ago from South India.
Historically India was inhabited by the Dravidian's the first original settlers were highlanders who some 3500 BC migrated from North West Iran into India- Subcontinent and played a leading role of Indus Valley ethnographic composition, before they were driven into Deccan beyond Narmada river into the Southern region by the Aryans who were infact semi-nomads invaded India through Khyber Pass at around 1500 BC. Dravidian's urbanized culture,caste was non existent,matriarchal tradition being the special feature and they had a huge respect for women particularly 'Mother' this is the reason folks in rural area of South India worship 'AMMAN" ( Mother ).Also in ancient India three religious traditions rose to prominence namely Saivism, Brahmanism and Jainism of which saivism was the most ancient also from saivism derived the temple traditions of Hinduism enriching in process Hindu mythology.There was considerable tamil diaspora in malaysia, indonesia and far east around early 18th century and the tamil population in malaysia alone was 25 lacs; the migration basically was to work in rubber plantation- a tamil school is on record as early as 1875 ( Tamilians were all over in thailand,manila,vietnam cambodia and even reached reached australia ). The tamil community mainly chettiar under Chola kingdom possessing  rich cultural heritage traveled  foreign countries by foot, road and set up business, took up small errand or jobs they were known as 'Nagarathans' now estimated to live in 52 countries abroad including west. I am certain that only a person like 'Siva Chinniah' having traits of a true Nagarathan can extend a warm response despite holding a high corporate status of Vice -President of Technology Development had no qualms in meeting me several times during my short stay at Desmoines. I thank him and look forward for his maiden visit to India the country of his ancestors.

" MATADOR IN MAKING "

Exactly the same day about a month ago I and Hema boarded Southwest flight from  LosAngeles destination the 'SinCity'  Vegas and our nephew  from the adjacent terminus for Spain, we both were escorted to the airport by our sister-in-law, grim faced, worried and tense as her young son was going to participate in " PAMPLONA" festival which is held in Spain every year in July when Bulls weighing 500-550 Kgs charge and chase people through the streets of the city into the Bull fighting arena.It is hazardous sport,but for Spaniards a traditional spectacle.We all were eager to learn from our daring nephew how well he is prepared  to take on the Bull, whether he is aware bulls are color blind and the fighting bull charges instantly, provoked  easily and cannot  be conveniently  distracted.I have viewed National Geography documentary where 'Pride Lions' of Africa being chased and even hounded by wild Bulls and these selected Bulls for the 'CORRIDA' unlike the other domestic are creatures of special breeding and are spared for the event. Nephew smiled nonchalantly answered 'Do not worry athimbar' -enjoy at Vegas; I am prepared; were you coached at your Kansas medical college facility asked her mom! No - but I have seen numerous video of  PAMPLONA and fully assured myself that with marginal tact and maneuvers a Matador is able to outwit a charging Bull- firmly grounded without moving much a Matador initiates series of  movement with a large cape for which the crowd in the arena applaud for his proximity to the horns of the bull. Hema wanted him to watch the show as a spectator or keep a safe distance from the charging bull after all there is no reward attached to the event.May be for the people of Spain it is a ritual carried on from Roman times and possibilities of life threatening injuries does not deter them. I understand that the Spaniards view this to be as a struggle between bull fighter and bulls but as a contest between fighter and themselves as to how close the bull fighter let the horns come and how far the matador go to please the crowd.We wished safe and secured return to campus for the the medical study also did remind him of having heard of one 'Belmonte' who was probably the only American to have performed in Spain, Peru and Mexico as a Matador and now gives lessons some where in Texas.

• The amusement of Ancient South Indians, provided contest by professional entertainers with the Bull which did not resemble to the Spanish bull fight ,where the scales are heavily weighted against the bull, but here the bull appears to have the advantage the actor enters the arena unarmed and 'Embraces the Bull' in an attempt to master it rather like the cowpunchers of American Rodeo-There is no attempt to harm or injure the animal. The game of taming the bull was looked on as an ordeal to test the manhood of young men; since it is stated that the girls who watched the performance would choose their life partner from among the top tamer of the beast as a sort of 'Tamil Sayamvara'. The stars were favorable to both of us in our different ventures,we did not incur any loss at Vegas and our dashing adventurous nephew reported at his campus on the 24th of July- exactly the same day by sheer coincidence we took our return flight at 11.30 am for Mumbai via Paris. I have a feeling that my nephew  the most eligible bachelor will not decline if I invite him for the Indian Bull show next August at Selem in South India

    

" NO BRAIN"

    

      Educating children is very complex and labour intensified field.It is now generally agreed that children can perform with greater degree of understanding if specific instruction on reading or writing is held up until they have reached the mental age of  Six, Prereading  instructions nowadays are by chart reading ,chart stories,printed symbols, simple conveying of thoughts  ' what does it mean under the picture'. Some 25 to 30 years ago kids were in school by the age between 3 to 4 years- parents targeted 14 or 15 years for Matric ( 10th standard ), pre-university by 16 and graduation maximum by 19. Kindergarten program was not prescribed nor rigidly set. This subject cropped up when I saw my grandchild keyaa attempt to add new usable words to her speaking vocabulary with correct pronunciation and motivation learning perhaps from age suited film ( Disney ) strips , charts and of course teachers. Kids of our time were on school for long duration just one or two charts were shown repeatedly it was more of Day Care and were en mass promoted to learning class within 2 years , where they recited nursery rhymes in regional language/ English and numerical tables up to at least 10 all at a furious pace. I had memory issues on numerical tables particularly of table 7 and 9 ( both later in my life were lucky numbers including at Vegas recently) though it was bit easy if not interrupted the tables of 2,4,10 and even 11 my favorite it used to be then like a Nursery Rhyme :- Ten One Za.....10 . Ten Two Za ..20 bit confusing when at Ten Ten ZA. Sir Julian my class teacher one morning picked me with intent; what is Nine Six Za . no clue look down he said  vaidi ( my school name,) what is Six 9 Za - I thought of something to please my teacher and loudly spurted out " HUNDRED" - immediate response of julian sir " ISS CHOKARAI MAI THO DIMAG HI NAHI HAI "( this kid has no Brains).The teacher wriggled out is if he had touched a live wire and never once during the entire year did he pick me up for question/answer session , I felt of  having performed a great service to the teacher very happy that my answer pleased him and praised the teacher to my parents started liking the school and Julian sir in particular( he later became my mentor for all outdoor games ). I accepted this pronouncement (having less grey matter) till grade 9th when finally I bade adieu to maths and science course.The curiosity to explore the mysteries of Brain persisted and first read in the library about Human Brain the  knowledge impressed me about  all "Humans " are born with nearly all Brain Cells, some of these cells die as we age but even had to live to be a Hundred you will never come close to using all cells in your brain .This was in fact very comforting and it further stated that all BRAINS ARE WRINKLED AS A WALNUT adult Brain weigh about 1.5 Kg . The Brain reaches its full size by the time a person is 6 years of age ;(I realized my Julian teacher judgement was perfect, I definitely had less grey matter at the age Four to grasp 9x6 or 6x9 ).The brain as I read does need plenty of nourishment and uses 20 % of body supply of oxygen while makes up only 2% of the body weight. Scientist have estimated hundred billion nerve cells in the brain in every human being; my stress level reduced pursued the courses diligently as brains do not tire and aspired to be successful like Umesh Bhatnagar our D-643 gandhi nagar neighbor in jaipur.

OUR ELDER GRANDCHILD

Athreya a few months old is our younger grandchild..As grandparents during our two months stay at my son's place in Desmoines - Iowa  we had an abundance of indulgence ,wish we had the energy that of our 5 year old Grandchild  Keyaa as they have the knack to bring out the best in us.Grandparents need their children and more the grandchild as well.Grandchildren of this generation have an acute sense of creativity are gifted to understand and control remotely,intricate fun and playful gadgets that it is absolutely mystifying technology for people of our time that I received a first hand coaching probably the only of its kind in my life.

On this occasion unlike the previous one in 2010 Keyaa then barely 18 months old would gleefully be with me without any qualms as I would create her interest in colourful objects which she would keenly observe and also I will not miss drawing her attention to different sizes of vehicle passing down the street, that others in the house appreciated my tact more than probably intelligence ; I am rehearsing the same with Athreya my daughter's new born of 5 months. Keyaa now as I see possess an array of specialized tools such as Ipod / Tablet computer and she instantly at will brings out fairy figures of Cinderella, Snow-White,Dora or Bella and various dream princes exhibiting different costumes,cosmetics, nail polish,footwear,braids,necklaces, earrings which she swiftly matches and in no time a complete portrait of her liking emerges. I was her fan cum learner constantly engaged and entertained and my IQ was repeatedly  tested and instead of telling Grandpa stories I become her pupil taking periodic lessons on dress and jewelry selection , use of cosmetics and hair setting with a dryer- I suggested hair oil as routinely applied during our time she just stared, the solitary suggestion sternly rejected; lesson learnt not to interrupt without knowledge. A day prior to our return journey she came to my room looked up and directed me to take a practical test, topic perform a demo HAIR DO or STYLE on her with a mirror to reflect the proceedings- duration of  the exam just 10 minutes as she has to go for swimming classes. Result announced "PASSED". This incident can be adequately collaborated by my daughter in law she has captured the sequence in her smart phone device. Besides this she also advised me to be POSITIVE and stop being RIDICULOUS with irrelevant suggestions, all in presence of  my son anand. Where in this world will I hope to find so much of sincere  love, affection and genuine  play we are indeed blessed.

There exist a relevant grudge with my children that I could not narrate to them bedtime stories during their childhood the truth there were stalwart  stories tellers in our extended family that my presence was hardly noticed in midst of great grand mother, grand parents, brother and sister in laws and few permanent guests like uncle and aunt in our lively Mumbai tenement; I want to assure them that matters have not altered " LET THEM BE ASSURED THAT I HAVE NOT BEEN SUCCESSFUL  EVEN NOW AS A GRANDPA STORY NARRATOR INSTEAD I HAVE SUCCUMB AND BECOME A PUPIL"  a rare privilege.

Grandparents world over are known to pass life lessons, family history and positive values I will certainly look forward to do this to my lovely affectionate adoring gifted grandchildren on the next visit. 

"THE INCREDIBLE PUMP"

We had to draw water to the surface from 600 ft depth and a electric Submersible Pump of 7.5 HP was installed at our company's land site in a remote bereft area just 60 Km from Mumbai.This magnificent pump efficiently discharged 2.5 inch density flow of water to irrigate the parched land having features of more water output with minimum power bill.The cooling of the pump was remarkable even after continuous operation for long duration;it also had a ideal weight of 132 lbs and was perfectly designed for a longer life.The signs of malfunctioning was first noticed during the 3rd year and gradually it became weak and finally collapsed on the 20th of June 2012.All efforts were futile to restore the incredible pump which became a precious source of living to the folks who tended the land and generating additional income.The causes diagnosed for its abrupt demise was basically :- a) Abrasives in water resulting in excessive wear. b)Intake screen on the pump got blocked by the mud.c) Fluctuation and Incorrect voltage supplies by the local power station.

The Greek physicians of Alexandria school first discovered that our heart functioned as a Natural Pump that blood entering the heart like a Submersible Pump thrust blood from the veins into the arteries. The heart is a living ENGINE of "HOPE ", it pumps about 32 lacs liter of blood a year,travelling about a foot a second and courses down the atrial tree losing its velocity as it goes; throught life from womb until death the final silence the THROB of heart is always there.Many character are drawn from PURE HEART,KIND HEART,HALE AND HEARTY or BLEEDING HEART and even BOTTOM OF THE HEART epitomizing sincerity.
The hardening of arteries and deposit of debris ( Atherosclerosis  Plaques ) eventually closes an artery.It has been an epidemic since early 1900 coronary heart disease claims million of life around the world each year, people are disabled,high economic cost involving medical expenses ,salaries and work day loss runs into billions.The heart of an inactive person has a poor pumping capacity limiting his ability to work or exercise for prolong periods,however, exercise improves the elasticity of arteries and also STIMULATE THE GROWTH OF ADDED BLOOD VESSEL TO THE HEART THESE COLLATERAL VESSELS PROVIDE ANOTHER ROUTE FOR BLOOD SHOULD THE CORONARY ARTERIES BECOME CLOGGED.Studies have revealed that even when some risk factors like gender,age,strong family history of heart disease can be altered and reduced by maintaining proper levels of cholesterol and other blood fats.
One should get into any form of exercise or play with great caution, the aim of any workout program is designed to improve the cardiovascular system is to attain 70 to 85 percent of maximum rate and sustain it for 15 to 25 minutes,the indicator is measured by doctors by Stress Test ,the optimum level a heart can beat and still supply adequate oxygen to working muscles.It may take weeks or months to work up to this level depending on one's physical condition, " NEVER BE COMPETITIVE OR OVER EXERCISE OR PLAY A RIGOROUS CHALLENGING GAME ALL OF A SUDDEN OR AFTER A LAY OFF". I could not tend the Submersible Pump but at least a Living Pump has the right to be looked after and kept away from being another" A BLEEDING HEART"

Cardio/Carbo

                                                     


June 1988 - A coronary artery bypass graft surgery ( CABG ) to correct arterial disorder was done to me at Bombay Hospital and before surgery I was told that a successful graft typically last 7 to 10 years, particularly   younger patients with no complicating diseases will do better compared to older patients. The CABG graft lasted perfectly 25 plus years and I am eager to briefly share the post Surgery life style corrections.

Throughout prehistoric time man's quest for fitness has been driven by a desire to survive by hunting and gathering thus demanding a high level of fitness.Confucius the Chinese philosopher encouraged physical activity as a result CONFU Gymnastic was developed to keep his subjects physique in good condition.In India individual pursuit of fitness was discouraged as religious belief of Buddhism and Hinduism emphasized spiritualism and tended to neglect development of body.The importance of fitness within society in general was relatively low;though Yoga existed for over 5000 years but more practiced by Hindu ascetics , saints and priests who lived frugal life style characterized by discipline and meditation ( Yoga is much more pronounced in the Western World and it is estimated in America alone there are over 12 Million people practice Yoga in some way ) . I want to emphasis in a very categorical terms to INVEST Liberally your time to HEALTHY LIVING .There are several physiological benefits of exercise first is improvement in muscular function ,strength and capacity in body's ability to take in and use Oxygen ( maximize Oxygen consumption for aerobic capacity ) as the ability to transport and use Oxygen improves regular daily activities can be performed with less fatigue.This is particularly important for patients with cardiovascular disease who's exercise capacity is typically lower than that of  a healthy individual.One should participate at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity activity on most and preferably all days a week i.e walking briskly at about 3 miles per hour will equal to 1200 to 1400 calorie  of energy expended per week. I recommend walking to running / jogging for instance it takes longer to walk a mile than to run a mile and if you match both the energy expended are comparable,it would take twice as long about an hour for brisk walking instead of 35 minutes for running. It has been conclusively proved that brisk walking reduces the risk of heart disease more effectively than running by 9.3% while running 4.5%. It is a matter of  grave concern that developed nations along with fast developing nations like India are currently getting deprived of  their " HUMAN CAPITAL" resources in productive enterprises during 40's and 50's it is a social and national loss when experience and efficiency are at the optimum level getting diminished due to abysmal sedentary and dietary habits.

A complete U turn of living added another graceful 25 years of my existence. I was able to not only recuperate from the traumatic CABG surgery but fulfill my family and social responsibilities. It is not easy to make a judgement and select a a proper diet ,however, I shall briefly indicate few significant issues: Firstly the serving size should be limited to an extent that  you consume limited. Eating more of Low Calorie nutrient rich foods such as fruit and vegetables and less on high sodium and high calorie such as refined and processed or fast foods; there is plethora  of books and articles to guide you on healthy eating nevertheless a High Blood Cholesterol having low density lipoprotien type B ( I guess) can lead to Plaques .It is the SMALL DENSE LDL which is more toxic than LARGE LDL and some times person having elevated LDL perhaps is more safer than MODEST ELEVATION OF LDL. It is now believed HDL below 35 and Triglycerides above 250 there is 90% chance of SMALL DENSE LDL present.There is also a genetic predisposition to have a small dense LDL. The aim is to shift small dense LDL to Large buoyant LDL. Cardiovascular exercise and consumption of POLYUNSATURATED FATS less sugar and restricted salt or sodium and a goal to achieve healthy life style is key to enjoyable LONGEVITY.

Finally I consider myself to be the greatest beneficiary from corrections the package being:-
a)  CABG lasted 25 + years  instead of 7 or 10 years.
b) Could carry out family and social responsibilities.
c) At 66 age I am active and clocking 4.5 miles stretch with incline in 40 minutes straight also could easily complete 40 laps in swimming at NBSA pool in Navi Mumbai
d) I am fortunate of having learned the MANTRA of Healthy Living just following exercise and proper intake.

I want you to inculcate this simple MANTRA to your living.

                                       Ancient Understanding of " THEORY OF RELATIVITY "



The most original and influential thinker in the history of philosophy a scholar at KANISKA COURT was NAGARJUNA , after the historical Buddha he was the next recognized Buddhist philosopher, he was a Brahman and later on embraced Buddhism and explained the principles of Mahayanism ,along with the  concept of "Midway"( Madyamata ) based around the central notion of emptiness. He expounded his philosophical thoughts in a scientific teaching that a determination of a thing or object is only possible in relation to other thing or objects especially by way of contrast;just like "Theory of Relativity " that no object in the universe has its independence existence. For instance Goodness can only be possible when there is some Evil and similarly the existence of Light is possible when the Darkness exists. By the same explanation the future generation in a matter of 30 to 40 years from now can look forward to settle in ZERO GRAVITY  going by the theory of relativity even-though space environment is hostile presently spacecrafts are providing platforms for zero gravity exposure to space. A famous British writer Arthur Clarke once said that " There is no difference between magic and highest technology ", indeed what could have seemed to people of past must be a miracle happened due to advancement of science and research based on the concepts of Relativity. Our humanity can now surely aspire in near future to dwell in Space ,even Ancient MAYAN CIVILIZATION who were responsible for a number of remarkable scientific achievement in engineering and communication predicted that living in zero gravity space is not far away......ancient surely understood the THEORY OF RELATIVITY as well as any scientist of the present age.

                                 FOOTBALL " A  CULTURE "


The South American Nations like Brazil, Argentina, Columbia and Uruguay the game football is a part of their culture.The two British visitors Oscar and Charles Miller introduced the game to Brazil in 1894 , the teams was made up  of members from Brazilian social elite and it was only after the waning of European influence in Brazil over a period of time led to more democratization of the game filtering down to lower classes  and football became the game of the people. The game gradually transformed from British's Defensive Posture and Tactical Movement of English Football much similar to the the Defensive Tactics introduced by the Origins of the game Cricket in England where the strategy of the game  was primarily to wear down the opponents that out of sheer fatigue a victory was planned.Imagine Indian Test Player of 1960's Bapu Nadkarni bowled against England in the Madras Test 21 consecutive maiden overs it is anyone guess who was the strategist bowler or the batsman. The South American  football playing nations have won Half of the World Cup Titles  and produced perhaps two of the most transcendent players of all time Pele and Maradona .It was about Speed, Power and Urgency. However in Columbia as a leading national player of the country said " Football in this country is a sordid business it reflects the culture completely  not only it is owned by cartels but run by cartels and now played by cartels ". It may be a coincidence that the greatest years in Columbian football coincided with the rising of money laundering and cocaine;somewhat identical to our BCCI controlled by the diverse political spectrum, business houses with bidders taking players on lease and creating several format of the game.Both Football and Cricket is played to raise the pitch of the public to the hilt  it is to entertain public at large the way " THE COLOSSEUM  " was introduced and staged during the reign of Roman Emperor Titus to keep his popularity and throne secured. Uruguay a small South American football nation  a very liberal to immigrants, after the slavery was abolished  its national team was taken over by the Italian immigrants this country has bagged two Word Cup Titles in Paris and Holland Olympics.

INDIA'S STORY : India qualified for 1950 FIFA World Cup in Brazil ( It was due to 4 or 5 withdrawal of qualifying teams from the competition ) but India refused to participate because FIFA DID NOT ALLOW PLAYERS TO PLAY BARE FOOTED. Our team has never since came closer to qualifying rounds for Word Cup. However we had our share of GOLDEN ERA for a decade 1952 to 1962 and eventually once became the best team in Asia.In 1962 India beat  South Korea in the final and won the Asian Cup; Chunni Goswami from Bengal possessed a dribbling skill of 360 degree turn sending shivers to opponents. The club matches in the State of Bengal ( breeding state of emerging footballers) East Bengal versus Mohan Bagan has been a life and death contest for the people of Bengal but instead of truly professionalizing  club football -Kolkata allowed it to lapse into cesspool of mediocrity very much like BENGAL  the game played on poor grounds with limited infrastructure and the football administrators have woken up too late for the rest of the world has left us far behind.We may never play in football world cup in near future but we can at least work to recapture at least some pride in the Asian context as we did in 1962, perhaps the Union Sports Minister should introduce an ordinance and induct few of Veteran BCCI members in Indian Football Federation they have the tested magic potion to receive the support of our SPORTING CULTURAL PUBLIC and quite likely we may get success just similar to SOUTH AMERICAN FOOTBALL LOVING PEOPLE.

                                          "THESPRINGS OF DOLAN"


There is just nothing more rewarding than getting returns realized more than expectations.This announcement from the Air-Conditioned Double Decker  motor coach while moving from Hoover Dam to Grand Canyon that the an extra schedule has been added to the original itinerary and now we will pass through Dolan Springs. The last occasion I visited Hot Springs was some three decades ago about 80 km from Mumbai a temple town of goddess Vajreshwari which then I suppose had at least 20 hot springs in a 5 Km radius and according to local tradition hot water is the blood of the demons slain by goddess Vajreshwari . The other most popular hot spring is Manikaran located in Kulu-Manali is connected with Lord Shiva it is here his consort lost her ear ring and several hot springs popped up at places where ever it was dug to find the lost ring. All these hot springs supposedly have wonderful therapeutic powers.The world famous is the Grand Prismatic Springs in Yellow Stone National Park. The additional location to our itinerary I perceived it to be a bonus. However the first glimpse of the Dolan Springs town as I saw was completely deserted-nothing was seen to be moving,no vehicle,human or animal- there was no park or shade of tree to sit under, most houses were ramshackle and unkempt, the only store I could see that was a Family Dollar Store, The place was very arid and dry surely due to acute water scarcity. I subsequently confirmed that Dolan Springs with a population of 250 people is in Arizona state which is a beneficiary of Colorado river basin to an extent of 2,80,00,000 Acre Ft and Dolan Springs has a water area of just .01 Sq mile repeat 0.1 Sq mile. I wondered how a place so close ( 40 Miles ) to Hoover Dam and Colorado river which raises from North Central of Colorado and covers 1500 Miles before reaching Gulf of California eludes a town just few miles away named from early times DOLANSPRINGS. At this juncture I remember our ancient SARASWATI RIVER  arising from Mount Kailas one of the Chief RigVedic river  just vanished and it is believed now to flow beneath theThar desert of Rajasthan and Hindus believe that Saraswati flows underground and meets Ganga and Yamuna at their confluence in Prayag ( Allahabad ). I anxiously wait for a clue to Dolan Spring reality. 

" EDICTS" edited

The First National Ruler of India Chandra Gupta Maurya's grandson Emperor Ashoka  about 2300 years ago engraved in one of the numerous Edicts addressed his thoughts as well as direction to the state officials,courtiers and his subjects that " All people are my children and just as I desire my children that they may enjoy every kind of prosperity and happiness both in this world and in the next so also I do desire the same for all my subjects" and further exhorts his courtiers in his edicts that at all times even when I am at rest in my privacy or in my ranches or in place of my religious instruction ..... anywhere the reporting officials of my state should make known to me the people's affairs.....I shall never feel satisfaction in my exertion and dispatch of business ; for work I must for the welfare of all the folk .....for nothing is more sacred and essential than the welfare of all my subjects . We have come a long way the concept and desire of our leaders are radically transformed it has shaped thus could possibly be defined  some what like this " I DESIRE FOR MY FAMILY AND CHILDREN AND CAREFULLY SELECTED SUPPORTERS THAT THEY  ENJOY EVERY KIND OF PROSPERITY AND HAPPINESS IN THIS WORLD -AT ALL COSTS AND PRAY THAT I CONTINUE TO PROTECT THEIR WELL BEING AND INTEREST WITH ALL MY MIGHT AND POWER AT THE EXPENSE GOOD WILL OF MY SUBJECTS" We should ceaselessly  work like Rambo,Superman or even Spidermam to airlift subjects plagued by nature's ire even though governance had not thought of proper arrangement for CHAR DHAM YATRA even after 12 years of formation of  Uttarakhand. 

"Track Shoe Clinic"

The first purchase on reaching America in 2003 was a pair of track shoe a gift from my brother in law ,a quick mental calculation revealed that back home I could have got several pairs.This tradition is being methodically followed by my children and relatives here depending on where I arrive during my sojourn to States . This time due to baggage restrictions prefer to reach here without shoes confident as usual that my folks will show their generosity and take me to the town's best store and allow me the liberty to choose any brand without restriction. Anand my son on this occasion had different plan, this store he selected for me here in Des Moines I came across is a sports- shoe clinic a very specialized store, whose staff came with concept like" Motion control and Maximum Heel Rotating Flexibility "  .I was beginning to assume that soon a physician will examine me and I will be deprived of selecting a track shoe of my liking.My son told them that in Mumbai father is a compulsive brisk walker and as a routine covers a distance of 10 to 12 kilometers in a well measured timing They were not impressed queries like" Are you aware that it is a myth about a foot size does not change in adults - the shoe store specialist emphatically said that foot size changes in adults and it is more pronounced among sr citizen like us (  for a moment I believed at least we are somewhat capable even now ) so we have to measure once a year yet another point feet swell over the course of the day, they also expand when you run or walk so shoes should fit your feet when they are at the largest . The average pair of track shoe should be replaced after using for 300 Km. The prescription was a pair  recommended not made in USA but made in Japan . Anand  satisfied and happy that he will be able to sustain and prolong  the family's tradition.   

Dicky "DJ"

Dickey Rutnagar - D.J. ( Dickey )  passed away  yesterday the 20th June in London, was an Indian sports Journalist for the Hindustan Times during 1960's and later on covered cricket as a commentator cum sports journalist for the Daily Telegraph ,U.K. In 1961-62 Dickey covered the tour of the Ted Dexter MCC team to India and a 3 day fixture match was played with Rajasthan team in Jaipur. Dickey covered the match. I happen to view the game from the journalist/ press gallery ,courtesy Directorate of Public Relation Department Govt of Rajasthan where my father was Deputy Director  ( News), for three days I saw the game placed just behind " Dicky " never missed an opportunity of the batting display of Ken Barrington hitting 3 consecutive SIXES off the bowling of Salim Durrani  unfortunately Ken got out for 97 while later Durrani scored a hard hitting stylish 117 against a bowling attack of pacer White and spinner Tony Lock, simultaneously admired Dicky furiously using his portable typewriter covering the proceedings.The Rajasthan team was represented by players like Vinoo Mankad, Vijay Majrekar, Subash Gupte, Hanumant Singh, Rajsingh of Dungarpur pacer Sundaram the side led by Maharana of Mewar. It was a memorable moment of my life which I still remember Ted Dexter guarding the covers area of the field  and bowling medium pacers a great smooth flowing action. I was barely 14 then. This game made me a cricket enthusiastic and within next 2 years I was selected to represent my state for Rajasthan Schools and subsequently till 1971 participated actively and Captained Rajasthan University was among the probables in the RanjiTrophy for Rajasthan State where the side had 9 Test Players and it was great to be in the squad.
I will always remember the fair, tall, spectacled,slightly leaning to his right, having a majestic gait reaching the venue by crossing lush ground through the middle with all his paraphernalia with supreme authority.   

The killer mansoon which struck on the morning of june 17th causing excessive rains, cloud bursts and landslide in Uttarakhand trapped over 20,000 pilgrims in the districts of Rudraprayag, Tehri and Chamuli . We all are aware that while Air, Water and Soil seemingly come for free but these resources require stewardship for the benefit of mankind; nature reacts to large scale changes as it is the law of nature. It is therefore vital to tackle and reduce the severity of consequences of human error large scale disasters  by putting in place the tools of Risk Management for preventing incredible devastation and also what essential measures do we take to try and ward off such calamities.

This is a test blog post  .

Still testing..

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