Musings

The title may seem to be misleading, especially given the fact that many parts of India are busy dividing themselves over local languages! But this is what I have been musing over the past few days. Having lived in many parts (regions) of our country, there are strong similarities as well as striking differences. One of the most stark differences is what I would like to pen down in this piece.  Being a part of 'seva dal' - volunteer from Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation, I take part in some seva work on and off and can see societies across our country, albeit in a small way. One thing that stands out is the way elders (parents, grandparents, general older people) are taken care by the North Indians over the other parts of the country, especially South. I find that elders are taken care of by their own children in North India much more than in the South of India. My feeling is also backed by the fact that, overall, there are fewer old-age homes and retirement communities in Nort...

It is time where we are hearing about medals and accolades coming in for India in more than one way. Sania Mirza and Mahesh Bhupati winning a grand slam, Yuvi Bhambri for his junior title in tennis, A. R Rehman ofcourse getting all the praise for his music in Slumdog millionaire. Proud moments . I feel proud of them despite of all the possible obstacles that we see in India they have made a mark for themselves in the world. Fabulous and I can feel the smile in Mother India’s heart- for a change her children are getting the right type of attention! Though I am no where close to even holding a tennis racket or a baton to wave; the feeling is similar when my parents proudly show off the little achievements I have in my account to all and sundry. A tad embarrassed nevertheless happy it is so amusing to hear talk like “My daughter went abroad on work and got me these shoes”, “She took me for my medical check in her whirl wind tour”, “She sent me tickets for coming over” After...