HAILING MARY
ARVIND K PANDEY
I think nobody should have real problem in hailing Mary.After all,isn't the modern times deicated to 'woman empowerment'?And if Lord found Mary to be the perfect medium, how on earth petty human beings come to find anything objectionable in that lady?There are some issues ,which according to me,should never be subjected to the dimensions intellect, brimming with earthy limitations.In a mad rush to be objective and rational let's not reduce the symbols, reminding us about the Lord's glory, to things no better than cheap objects.Doubts and enquries in matters related to Divine World can't be handled with shallow minds.In absence of dignified approach and mind soaked in devotion towards Lord ,it's better we maintain a safe distance from the Divine souls like Mary.Mary needs to be approached with a mind mired in devotion to blur the line between known and unknown.

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER
ARVIND K PANDEY
It's time to reckon with the hidden facets of education.I am appalled at the manner in which institutions offering so-called gems of knowledge,which in reality are antithetical to creative tendencies lying latent within the recipients, have solidified their base.One reason for it could be that parents are now no more interested in 'value-oriented teaching methods,simply because it stands in the way of attaining 'name and fame'.No wonder this could be the reason behind the mind-boggling network of coaching factories,which are making huge profit in the name of offering conductive atmosphere for cracking the entrance tests.This attitude of the parents has brought a sea change in the attitude of present day students who weigh everything in materialist yardsticks or, in other words, in rupee:dollar ratio.After all,who has time for values in the fast-paced life of ours.The real quest for supreme knowledge will always remain a distant dream in absence of change of mindset,especially the parents.I think it's never too easy to change mindset without measures mired in transparent means.What has guaranteed failure of projects in this regard has been wide gap between theory and practice besides infrastructural bottlenecks.Let us realize that mere propaganda is not going to solve this issue.Unfortunately, this is what both Left and Right wings are used to .Their stances,diametrically opposite to each other,have wiped out the vigour of those wishing to make worthwhile contributions, so much so that if one does not yield to their outdated notions one is bound to invite troubles of all sorts.The mesage is clear:Rise above ideological fanaticism to stop the degradation of education system, something so imperative to prevent the innocent minds turning into clones of robot.Vivekananda rightly remarked that,"Education is not the amount of information that is put into your brain and run riot there,undigested,all your life.We must have life-building, man-making,charecter making assimilation of ideas."Will anyone please translate this into reality

AVOIDING WEST'S APPROVAL
ARVIND K PANDEY
“But when he once attains the upmost round ,He then unto the ladder turns his back, Looks in the clouds scorning the base degrees by which he did ascend .,” says Shakespeare. Many of our intellectuals behave in this fashion once they have attained a certain stature, ignoring the demands of landscape which all these years served their needs. I am compelled to state this because those claiming to be nation-oriented are all the time hankering for seal of approval from the Westerners, even if thaty means deviation from their goals and ideals. For instance, section of people who miss no opportunity to shed tears for degradation of Hindi are the first ones to ensure that their children get admission in ‘English medium’ schools or, if possible, at institutions located in the foreign landscape. Such contradictions alone have ensured that gap between intellectuals and interests of the nation exist forever. In India, as the above-mentioned example suggests, the situation has attained an all time low, to an extent that anything Indian irks the elitist section for whom Western labels act as life-force

HONOUR KILLINGS IN PAKISTAN
ARVIND K PANDEY

It’s indeed appalling to read about the no-holds-barred brutal treatment meted out to the women in Pakistan today. The honour killings by the self-appointed custodians of morality are by-products of the narrow minded perceptions of chauvinistic era. These people are unable to rise above perverse tendencies of feudal times which clearly call for stricter measures to pressure their complete elimination for having grossly violated the human rights. Their mindless acts have not only robbed the peace of mind of these hapless women but also wiped out their ability to live with dignity.In addition , the dubious remark of Mushrraf that rapes are the weapon employed by the women to win International sympathy and grants add fuel to the fire. At the same time I would like to mention that honour killing is very common in India as well, especially in regions dominated by the upper caste. I wonder why they haven’t got in league with the changes that have occurred, the changes that advocate the application of more open-minded approaches. This is not to suggest that amoral way of living is to be accepted as something natural or be encouraged. What I intend to say is that given the complexities that have entered into our lives a rational view should replace such outrageous and barbaric practices. Let none be subjected to such humiliation and torture. More so in an era when women have learnt to overcome stigmas, attaining newer heights with each passing day.

ABOUT COMMUNISTS
ARVIND K PANDEY

Communists have failed to evolve with time.Carill rightly points out that individual should be free to follow their own conscience.However,this would mean end of the road for the Communist Parties since they like to dictate human minds.It's high time that Communist Parties learn to to rise above their limited perceptions and get in tune with changes that have hit the globe.In other words, aggressive means should give way to creation of space for constructive means that involves healthy participation of masses.No need to say that Communist Parties are not above vices ,which have made other parties prone to corrupt practises.Anyway there is still plenty of opportunities for Communists to regain their aura and dominance but will they let the right sense prevail?

MULTIPLYING WOMEN OF SUBSTANCE
ARVIND K PANDEY
The sex-imbalance can never be bridged without a change in mindset allowing women to carve a respectable space in a society on her own terms. It’s a sad reflection that they are being constantly pushed towards a bleak scenario marred by unspeakable offences. The truth is that to create an environment in which they can have their say demands lots of other changes taking place simultaneously. For instance, in absence of population control measures can we ever hope to provide them the basic facilities? Let’s not downplay the importance of availability of infrastructure which is the last thing in mind while discussing complex issues such as widening sex imbalance. Female foeticide might remind us about dark ages but deteriorating values coupled with high cost of living are greater culprits that have made survival extremely difficult besides giving rise to host of other inhuman tendencies. According to a recent survey parents are reluctant to spend huge amount on their girl child, as compared to boys, in providing medical treatment. This not only exposes their narrow mindedness but also that it has now become virtually impossible to raise a child in a decent manner. What else could be the logic for spurt in suicide cases among couples? Along with a change in mindset it’s also necessary to give rise to a system that allows an individual to have access to basic needs in an even manner. A proper distribution of resources, required to live life with dignity, is a prerequisite to avoid problem like sex imbalance.

HAMMERING AIDS
ARVIND K PANDEY
The worrisome truth about this dreadful silent killer is that we are still in dark about its extent of growth in India.The pecularities involved in it at bureaucratic level in the babudom circle has allowed this disease to multiply into newer incarnations.Besides the primitive mindset of those around ,the high-handedness of the health officials have increased the woes of the patients suffering from this virtually incurable disease.I don't know why issue that demands high dose of sensitivity and maturity becomes the object of political drama in this country.Not much long ago when US and other countries offered the much needed help the move was dubbed by some so-caled progressive thinkers as an attemt to hijack trhe sovereignty of the nation.Ironically, these perverse section of people left no stone unturned to pose it as clash of dominance wherin affluent section was trying to to gain control over the society by subverting the cause of the weaker sections.No need to ermphasize upon the fact that this very attitude of ours has brought this nation at par with hell.Even though we have made amazing progress in certain fields , our attitude topwards these victims of fate is governed by insticts borrowed from the stone age.Unless the problem is tackled on war footing being intrespersed with units baked in high level of competence it would be nothing short of day dreaming if we think about its total etradication.Forget that distrbutiuon of condoms is going to create any miracle.Even,the roping in of celebreties ,who are adept in using such opportunites to concretise their star appeal,is not going to break the ice.I wonder why we maintain a strange indiference towards this fact that there is instant need to check the falling level of morality.
Interestingly the moment if some government thinks about it, it is bound to excite the conscience of the above mentiomned class who immediately come to label it an attempt to impose Hinduism n a differnt name.Or, for that matter,the blockheads of modernity would be too eager to project it as an idea dangerous for the progress of the nation.Sex education may be a necessity but lo and behold ways and means imparting character building lessons are obsolete.Only Lord can tell how any one can carve a better path in this atmosphere surcharged with venom.It wouldn't be beyond the ambit of this issue if I contrast the whole thing with MMS episode involving DPS fellows.The shocking incident is enough to suggest that technological manifestations have ripped of the patterns of society which considered decency a cherished value.Against this backdrop, one is sure to be accused of preaching if one talks about need of values.As, hoping against hope has been my pastime, I still dare to think that committed individuals enveloped in sense of responsiblity are certainly going to chain the demon called AIDS.

ABOUT POPE JOHN PAUL II APPELATION AS "GREAT"

ARVIND K PANDEY

To say that appellation represents true worth of a person is to ignore the greatness inherent in the noble deeds.Let us know for sure that pious souls intentions don't need anybody's seal of approval.Also appelllations are of relative importance,being open to diverse interpetations.Alexander the great may be national hero in his land but for others he is no more than a plunderer. Pope John Paul II lived for the cause of humanity.He was different from his predecessors in a sense that he touched issues ,which were controversial in nature,managing to create a new way.By all standards it was an amazing achievement , something that enabled him to strike a chord with the masses.The need of the hour is to infuse religion with the progressive ideals so that it can become people friendly. Viewed in this perspective,Pope John Paul II created space for issues ,which till few years ago were suppressed by orthodoxy.How many times can you find religious heads airing views on homosexuality, capitalism and etc. in such a ferocious manner? His legacy merely indicates that time has come to adopt liberal concepts without losing sight of the ancient ideals.

EU: LISTEN TO THE VOICE OF COMMONERS
ARVIND K PANDEY
(THE HINDU)

The rejection of the European Constitution by the people of Netherlands and France is symbolic of the people's power.The implications of this decision are manifold.It categorically brings on fore people's attachment towards their beliefs and priorities, which they believe shall be lost once they are set against a hazy background.After all, it would be foolishness to be devoid of identity of its own.At the same time, their decision also echoes that everything ultimately boils down to the wishes of common men/women.You cannot simply avoid their voice.In other words, before embracing a grandiose plans the bigwigs must heed to happenings at the lowest level.Both these nation are apprehensive about future of their citizens in sea of humanity.Such a chaos is indicative of the fact that their concerns were not addressed in a sincere way before giving in to a common constitution.Let us weed out the fears of innocent citizens before hoping of their betterment in an alien atmosphere.

RISING ABOVE AISHWARYA
ARVIND K PANDEY
We have become lovers of mediocrity or else there is little sense in encircling Aishwarya as epitome of beuty or bundle of talent.We seem to be little aware of the fact that true beauty in its wholeness and perfection is combination of harmony, rhythm, balance, symmetry and proportion. A glittering thing lacking solemn attributes is fit to be included in the class of waste. In absence of this harmonious relationship with grace within emerges a ‘picture imperfect’. ‘How with this rage shall beauty hold a plea/ whose action is no stronger than a flower?’ (William Shakespeare). About her achievement as an actress the less is said, the more better. Barring few films, successful mainly because of intense performances of her other co-stars, she has in her cupboard a good collection of mega flops. Thanks to the received notions of movie making in our nation she has been able to survive despite her mediocre “baby doll” status. The writer of the letter expresses a desire to ‘treat her neutrally like other Bollywood actresses’ but devoid of soul-stirring performances does she really deserve a place among actresses? Of late, it has become order of things in Bollywood to cash-in-on the white the skin of ladies. This is why we have a second rated performances thereby leading to gradual degradation of filmmaking abilities. On the one hand, this attitude of filmmakers virtually seals the fate of talented actors and actresses being forced by the ignorance of these greedy producers to languish somewhere in the dark. On the other, there are star-sons, star-daughters, model-turned-actresses and one enjoying the patronage of some so-called godfathers who come to shed influence solely on the “dhoom” of skin. Raghuvir Yadav and Tanvi Azami may be allowed to get checkmated by financial crisis but our market-giants ensure that Bipashas, Mallikas and Aisawaryas glow of skin continue to hog the limelight and, in turn, ensure inflow of cash box for them and industry. Nevertheless, we never stop dreaming about giving a disturbing blow to Hollywood.

SAVING MENTALLY ILL
ARVIND K PANDEY
The efforts of Banyan, a NGO, needs to be appreciated for providing a ray of hope to mentally challenged. It’s, indeed, horrifying that Asian counteries, aspiring to become a superpower, are so lethargic in providing proper care and treatment to victims of rough life. Such indifference towards their well being suggests how inhumane and insensitive have authorities become on such important concern that they don’t consider it necessary to adopt scientific approach in improving the condition of these people wandering on the roads in a wretched state. Pondering over their fate I feel it has become hallmark of modern day lives. Never before life has been so traumatic as it has now become. Blame it on the false values we have nurtured for so long. A maddening rush for power and fame open the gate of depression as well. At this point I can’t resist myself from quoting lines of Matthew Arnold :

Before this strange disease of modern life

With its sick hurry, its divided aims,

Its heads o’ ertaxed, its palsied hearts, was rife-

Fly hence, or contact fear!

These lines sums up the essence of modern life – stock house of hellish experiences.

THE SOCIOLOGY OF SUICIDE
ARVIND K PANDEY

The irony is that adhering to higher values is viewed as an obstacle in attainment of the cherished dreams. The previous generations were successfully able to rise above the complexities of life because of its deep faith in the religious beliefs. Since this generation has been fed on ‘borrowed ideals’ it has come to imbibe mercurial tendencies, those that often invite unpleasant consequences; to say the least. The worse part of this whole affair is that any attempt of restoration of these age old values comes to be labeled as ‘saffronisation’ by the psuedo -intellectuals who as usual come to resist it. This pathetic situation, invloving the suicides by bright students, which has come to hit metros should be an eye –opener for those who are unable to find any thing worth for emulation in our culture. At least they should now refrain themselves from engaging in mindless criticism. You have also referred to suicides committed by the farmers which in my opinion is result of pursuing flawed policies .It’s really sad and unfortunate that the deserving souls always find themselves in pool of troubles. Even when India is apparently shining they are compelled to end their lives. Let’s hope this government does something concrete their condition.

AMERICA'S TROUBLE
ARVIND K PANDEY
"A young lady was being raped and stabbed.And the sounds of her screaming got to this man and so he ran out into street to get help from troops , to try flag down a pasing truck of them , and he jumped up on the truck's wind screen and they shot him dead" (excerpts from a news item In The Telegraph).

If the details of the above -mentioned news item aren't figment of imagination , I am afraid US has surely turned into another planet's hell ! Commodification has turned people there either into selfish brutes or demons and thus making them incapable of exhibiting humane tendencies.You have rightly stated that industrialization has weakened our ability to cope with crisis.Once things churned out by factories get distanced from our lives we crumble like pack of cards.Greater the dependency on materialistic tendencies , lesser become man's abilty to develop ideals. The world witnessed ,with eyes wide open, anarchy and mayhem that seized post-hurricane New Orleans. Well, human nature is damn unpredictable .It does get swayed by basic instincts in times of crisis.But what happened in New Orleans demonstrates something more. First of all, it simply proves that even superpowers are marred by administrative loopholes .US boasts of being ' watchdog of the globe' but is now simply at its wits ends in meting out a proper treatment to the victims of nature's fury. Also it shows that underprivilged , no matter in what part of the globe they are living, are forced to reel under inhuman conditions.Such demonical happenings including killings and rapes at times when all one need is care are shocking and baffling .Contrast US reactions with India and Sri Lanka ,lacking in infrastructure, and it becomes clear that US may be far ahead in technological innovations but it's society is remarkably devoid of human sentiments , which smaller nations so frequently demonstrate in problematic hours.The US is all the time teaching lessons to smaller nations.Now it's America's turn to learn few from them .At least , this will enable it to maintain a better sense during critical times. The couplet penned by W.Drmmand says all: Ah if from chance doth sway this all

Why should best minds groan under most distress

Or why should pride, humility make thrall ,

And injuries the innocent oppress ?

Heavens ! hinder stop this fate; or grant a time

When good may have , as well as bad , their prime.

MARRIAGE MANIA
ARVIND K PANDEY

The marriage ceremonies of yesteryears were not only less pompous but also more in tune with the traditional gestures. Today they have become hub of maddening activites where one often come to encounter inebriated people, people gyrating in vulgar fashion amid loud music.Interestingly, this could be the reason why marriages of these days break-up early .When the foundation is so weak , how can they ensure stability? This 'social comedy drama' , also a great Indian tamasha , have now become the surest mean to get trapped in legal mess.Increase in no. of divorce petitions is not only symbolic of greater consciousness of ones rights but also of ' lower tolerance level ' .It wouldn't be wild to suggest that a greater focus on simplistic lifestyle , instead of zeroing -in- on costumes and body -oriented needs , would add more life- giving dimensions in lives of newly wed couples.Contrast this drama ,in which millions go down the drain, to scenes depicting dead bodies of young girls who committed suicide to relieve their parents ? I still can't forget the faces of three sisters, belonging to Kanpur, who commited mass suicide few years ago , being unable to bear the surmounting pressure killing their parents each day ?Anyway life is a big stage and it seems that it would continue to offer such stak contrasts !!!

GANDHI AND MAO:A COMPARISON
ARVIND K PANDEY
It's noteworthy that both Gandhi and Mao , residing on different plane of thoughts, parted with their comforts for the sake of common people's sake.They both were pragmatic thinkers who gave rise to new undercurrents in the field of politics.However, Gandhiji's firm belef in the supremacy of God and his strong advocacy of non -violent means create a sharp distinction between these two personalities.Ironically, in today's world India and China have given way to global elements .In other words, they have deviated from the vision of their architects.Today, the pains of common man fizzle , without triggering any emotion, amid the chaos of the modern times.The emergence of global giants has proved fatal for ordinary lives in both the nations.People once again are desperately awaiting for the arrival of leaders of their stature who can save them from the onslaught of negative forces and restore theri faith in higher ideals.

INTELLECTUAL TERRORISM

ARVIND K PANDEY

Interesting thought patterns have come to environ human beings .I would like to share what I feel in this regard. It’s no secret that Western countries have been obsessed with their so-called intellectual superiority myth, to an extent that nations, who did not adhere to this belief has to face their wrath either through war or arbitrary sanctions. Even as we call upon conscious individuals to gear themselves for war against such “intellectual terrorism” , it wouldn’t be bad idea to think why ordinary citizens seem to be cut off from such ideological wars fought in their name. Paradoxically speaking, communism or, for that matter, socialism failed to leave desired impact on people it’s because they never fulfilled the overall needs of the people as they expected.What has shattered the hopes of common people is that they are deprived of the benefit of the movement ,which is all these years was nurtured by them once the goal is accomplished. The benefits get restricted to dubious power zones that come into existence after every revolution. Again intellectuals, be they of any group, should not forget that ultimately everything boils down to the needs of common people’s long it gets fulfilled, even through wrong means, people don’t mind it. It’s bitter reality that globalization in their eyes is in some measures fulfilling their suppressed desires. However, an ideal society is based upon elevated principles. Globalization’s negative effects or the phenomenon itself can’t be tackled if intellectuals fail to take into confidence the underprivileged, whose only fate till now has been to get marginalized after every revolution .

PARLIAMENT VS JUDICIARY
ARVIND K PANDEY
Published In MIRROR TODAY,
October, 05
It's time to explore the reasons behind legislature's frustrations with judiciary's mannerisms.To disagree with the court's interpetation is one thing .But to cock a snook at judiciary's glory, in the name of criticism, is quite a different thing.Surely, Indira Gandhi provided soul to many of the problems , which now refuse to whither away.By meddling with the court's power she prepared a ground for others to enter into confrontation with it often.Shabanu's case proved to be nemesis, providing unscrupulous beings a space to circumbent its decisions in their favour.It's anybody's guess why politicians are angry with SC or, for that matter, judicial activism ---they perceive them to be obstacle in attainment of their bogus dreams.Just think of the consequences if courts become dysfunctional.There would be total anarchy.One is bound to turn numb thinking of chain of events in court's absence.Courts are still able to trigger waves of optimism in hearts and minds of people reeling under host of problems.Infact, their verdicts are always able to leave an indelible impression on conscious minds.Any attempt to tarnish its image or clip its wings must be counteracted with iron hands.Corrupt elements must be weeded out but that should not be the pretext to dilute its power.How can judges and doctors ,working amid difficult situations, be able to efficientely carry out their task if a sword comes to hang over their heads? Let's not make mockery of one of our most respectable institutions.

A LILT OF FULLFILMENT
ARVIND K PANDEY

Her arms a blissful valley

Learnt in beauty it lessons;

Rests here my mind weary

And calmly soon sinks into fascinations.

Blinking perceptions daring motive

Shield them not morality;

And reasons no longer survive

Troubles not the vision of reality.

Silent emotions and deeds noble

Share with them the secret of life’s origin;

Rare moments and its result probable

Hopefully the world it would enlighten.

Shadowy thoughts before our senses they empower

And prevails the law of finality;

Let our seizure loosen not and arise a message

Echo which will forever,

When you love though the body perishes,

Soul lives after till eternity.

RAHUL DRAVID:THE RIGHT MAN
ARVIND K PANDEY
No, two ways about it, that Dravid's new incarnation as captain of Indian team would definitely prove advantageous for the team which ,of late, has found itself too often in crisis.Rahul Dravid has always played the role of sheet-anchor and therfore one feverentely hopes that if he is allowed to retain the captaincy for a longer period the team India is bound to regain its glory.He has played considerable cricket, which would enable him to coin new strategies in an easygoing manner.There is no reson why his experience should not be channelised to change the dynamics of Indian team.After all, teams like England and Newzeland have evolved into better teams because of path-breaking endeavours of their captains.To an extent that Michael Vaughan is little ashamed to follow the standards set by Naseer Hussain.Indian cricket board must cash-in -on the experiences of England and other boards that allow their captains to steer the team in the way they like.Not only Dravid should be given an opprtunity to serve the team as its captain for a longer time but also he be not subjected to whimsical decisions of the board ,which curb the decsion making abilities of the captain.

REMEMBERING GANDHI
ARVIND K PANDEY

The civil disobedience movement played important role in shattering Britisher's dream of extending their rule in India.The Dandi March enabled Indian's to realize their inherent tendencies.Making of salt was of lesser importance.The grater achievment was recognition of "power of togetherness". Belief in collective power finally became the prize possession of the Indians.It's another thing that in modern India Gandhian ideals are one of the favourite means to mock at someone's attempt to identify himself with better ideals! On the top of it,India's growing facination for MNC's participation shows that nation has failed to imbibe the lessons of the Salt movement, which marked the end of colonial rule.I must say that Asian countries should not turn out to be mere clones of the Western countries----strong in economic sense but utterly devoid of value-oriented lifestyle.They must not commit the fatal mistake of ignoring their roots,their rich cultural tradition.In other words, let them preserve their identity at all cost instead of losing it for sake of meaningless progress!

CONSUMERISM AND WOMEN'S DILEMMA

ARVIND K PANDEY

New changes ushered in by the globalisation have brought a sea change in the mannerism of the Indian women.Many of the new trend patterens seem to be violative of the traditions set by our forefathers.In this backdrop, the best way to move ahead would be to blend the old pattterns to new ones in such a way that does justice to the Indian spirit.A synchronization mirroring ethics and ideals of Indian society will save them from ills of consumerism.It might be a tough task but it's a better alternative than to be swayed by vague perceptions, which ultimately turn out to be traumatic and toxic for women.What's the gain in turning into saleable product? They should not forget that consumerist society is governed by principles ,which defy the laws of nature,.Perhaps, without this realization that roots of modernity emerge from mirages ,the battle against its demons can never be won.

RISING ABOVE HINDU BASHING

ARVIND K PANDEY

Indian media has been cold ,vituperative and biased while highlighting cause of Hindus.Invariably it has acted against the interests of nation reling under nefarious designs of dubious organisations. I am unable to decipher the logic which prevents intellectuals to adopt a balanced approach while penning a piece on Hinduism . What we come to anticipate are documents plagued by sweeping assertions, an indication of the fact that these are prepared with pre-determined mind to castigate all those who are propagating Hindu beliefs. Their skeptical attitude not only reveals their ignorance about fundamentals of Hinduism but also raises doubt over his knowledge of Indian Constitution. The Article 26 allows an organized body to establish and maintain institution for religious and charitable purposes besides right to mange its own affairs in matter of religion. The Supreme Court has stated Hinduism to be a way of living. I would like to ask the deractators,who undermine the efforts aimed at growth of Hinduism, is it crime to represent the aspirations of majority? Or just because Hindus belong to the majority group they should abandon their hopes of taking their religion to new heights and that too in land of its origin? Bogged down by imaginary fears triggered by half- baked perceptions we have become used to intercept term Hindu in light of flawed understanding with bogus suspicion. Evidentially, according to one of the interpretations of the __expression ‘Hindu’ it means a being who is avowed practitioner of non-violent means. Hinduism does not compel an individual to follow a particular mode but clearly proclaims that those who worship other gods are worshiping the same absolute albeit in different form. V. Krishna Murthy in Essentials of Hinduism states that ‘Hinduism has never claimed to be the sole repository of wisdom in the world. With Hindu therefore it is not a matter of diplomacy but a matter of faith to believe in all religions and in all routes to lord.’ According to Professor K.P.R. Shastri in ancient Hindu Society the religious and secular elements were interwoven. There could be no greater crime to tarnish the image of Hinduism which believes in the fundamental unity of all religions.Indian media should rise above its prejuidices to add new dimensions in Hinduism.

CREATE BETTER MEANS OF SURVIVAL

ARVIND K PANDFEY

FROM THE STATESMAN

An affront to human dignity notwithstanding it's also an attempt on part of vast sea of humanity to ensure their survival in a world marred by lack of opportunities.In retrospect, nature of task can't be the ideal parameter to estimate's one worth.Going by this logic sex-workers should emerge as blot on the face of humanity when ,viewing from a different perspective, it's simply just one of the means to ensure two sqare meals.There is no point in shedding crocodile tears without ensuring them better means of survival.One harps about child-exploitation in factories, feels distressed over pathetic condition of bar girls and now bucket of tears for these rickshaw pullers but fail all the time to rehabilitate them in sound way.Surely, there is need to ensure a dignified life style for underprivilged but such critical issues ,hovering around their bread and butter, need to be intercepted with caution. Rising above stereotypical notions could be the first step in its attainment.

NEED REAL HEROES

ARVIND K PANDEY

( PUBLISHED IN THE TELEGRAPH)

Mangal Pandey would certainly compel the present generation to turn the pages of history and have a better view of the episodes before and after 1857.It's sad and unfortunate that our generation knows more about origin of fictious heroes like Superman ,Batman, Harry potter than real heroes of this land who sacrificed their lives for the cause of nation. Macaulay's sinister aims are finally bering fruits--of producing generations that are ashamed to glorify their culture and come to reserve their praise for "outsiders".However,the present age Indian directors need to work more on their scripts instead of being swayed by the commercial interests.This would only increase the reach of their creation besides providing them a credibilty.By giving way to trivilaities they devoid their flicks from turning into masterpieces .

ARUNDHATI ROY :FAULTY VISION

ARVIND K PANDEY

PUBLISHED IN OUTLOOK , September 20 05)

Arundhati Roy seems to be more fa