PRIYANKA'S MEOW
ARVIND K.PANDEY

ACT FOR REAL ?

Here is an actor who is undoubtedly the biggest star of his generation, but still extremely frustrated. Frustrated that people are making better movies than him, frustrated that people are no longer praising his every move, and worse, that they have started questioning the silly stuff he does on screen these days. The current six-pack obsession is probably an effort to show the world that he can be Shahrukh, John Abraham and Hrithik Roshan all in one. Talk of insecurities! Can we not see the Shahrukh of Kabhi Haan Kabhi Na, and Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman ever again? I was also disappointed that Outlook wasted some print space promoting what looks like another typical candyfloss Bollywood movie.

Hemanth Raj, Gloucester
(Excerpts from a letter publiushed in Outlook , Nov.05,2007)

PRIYANKA :True, , SRK of yesteryear which left the viewers mesemerized with his performances has become victim of naricissism . He is now being ruled by monster called "ego" , which has blocked his ability to put the others' achievements in right perspective . MEOW..MEOW

KALU : Even puffs of cigarretes are not able to provide him any relief other than inviting Court's notice..BOW ..BOW

JACKIE : CIGARETTE KE SAATH SHAHRUKH JALTA HAI...BOW..BOW

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Prafulla : : God, what is one million years to you?
God: One second.

Prafulla : God, what is a million rupees to you?

God: One paisa.

Prafulla : Can you give me one paisa, then?

God: Of course... in one second.

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NGO's AND CORPORATE WORLD JOIN HANDS

Today , many NGOs and corporate giants are working together to raise the standard of underprivilged . It's a good move on the part of corporate world as dream projects cannot take-off in absence of capital .However , NRI's who are investing money should not only get their priorities right but also ensure that there exists a mechanism to to execute their plans .Often , they are governed by sentiments than reason in sanctioning the projects . Let their Corporate Social Responsibilty be truly productive for poor people .

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A policeman and his wife were sleeping when the wife heard a thief in their drawing room.

Wife: Quick! Wake up! There's a thief in our drawing room. Go and catch him.

Policeman: Not now, dear. You know I am off-duty.

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DREAM SCHEMES MARRED BY POOR IMPLEMENTATION

Sonia Gandhi has expressed unhappiness over poor implementation of government's star project National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme( NREGS) .There are reports which suggest that Gram Panchayats , working in tandem with state administration , have entered in siphoning off the money meant for the project . Needless , to state greed has once again sabotaged the efforts of Central government to provide employment to people living in the rural belt .

SHERU : When we are going to have a vaccine to curb the menace of virus called corruption ...BOW..BOW

MOTI : Kam Se Kam Soniya Ko Sachhai To Pata Chali Ki Soch Ko Vyvahar Me Lana Kitna Muskil Hota Hai Ya Vyvaharikta Kitni Ghatak Hoti Ha Schemes Ke Liyein ....BOW

TOMMY : Ye To Hona Hi Tha ....BOW..BOW

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LOVE KILLED

The brutal murder of Rizwanur with the alleged assistence of West Bengal Police once again confirms the adage that the course of true love is frought with dangers of all sorts . The modern India might be jubilant over its economic growth but age-old prejudices are still dominating the minds of new entrants in millionaire group .They are no better than feudal lords of yesteryear ,who buthchered people daring to puncture their egos . Priyanka Todi , the daughter of a wealthy businessman, has lost everything in an attempt to live a life with her dream-partner . Today she is a widow having nothing left other than shattered dreams .

TOMMY : Ye Duniya Agar Mil Bhi Jayein To Kya Hai ...BOW..BOW

SHERU : Kya Yehi Pyaar Hai ? BOW...BOW

PRIYANKA :Waqt Ne Kia Kya Haseen Sitam...MEOW..MEOW

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Priyanka: Quiet! Why are you making so much noise?

Students: We are not making noise, ma'm. We are discussing.

Priyanka : : What are you discussing?

Students: The benefits of silence.

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STUDENTS STRIPPING FOR CASH

Is it a courageous step or compulsions born out of necessity which force the girl students (even boys ) to indulge in wild sexual activities for money ? At least , that appears to be the case with the Cambridge Undergraduate students working as call girls to pay their fees .

PRIYANKA : Banks sshould ensure that they do not charge high-interest rate on loans provided to students ...MEOW ..MEOW

TOMMY : Priyanka should know that we are living in times when " Paisa Phekoen Tamasha Dekho " is the order of the day .BOW ..BOW

BRITISH MEDIA : Kya Cool Hai Hum
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Question: What is the same size and shape as an elephant yet weighs nothing?

Anand: An elephant's shadow.

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BHAGAT SINGH HONOURED IN PAKISTAN

A news item has revealed that Pakistan has paid rich tributes to Bhagat Singh for his role in driving tyhe Britishers out of country . And look at India . He threw the bomb in the asssembly ,when it was conducting its business ,so that the impact of
incident make the Britishers sit up and take notice of the intentions of revolutionaries .The request to place the portrait of Bhagat Singh in the gallery of Parliament has fallen on the deaf year .

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WAITING FOR THE FURY OF LORD

An "Incredible India " poster issued by the Ministry of Tourism , Government Of India , to atract the tourists from various parts of the country shows Lord Krishna and Gopis in objectionable poses . The poster appears to be the brainchild of some pervert chap but how come other government officials found nothing objectionable in it ? More so , when the incident involving caricatured cartoons of Prophet Mohammed created mayhem across the globe .

TOMMY : Tarninshing the image of Hinduism has become the only task of so-called intellectuals ..BOW..BOW

RAMKALI : Sometims the philosophy of patience and non-violence build wrong impression in the minds of Hindu-bashers , who treat it as lack of strength ..BOW..BOW

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INDIRA GANDHI'S DEATH ANNIVERSARY

Remebering this " Iron Lady " who never hesitated in taking strong decisions to save the country from falling in wrong hands ...

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[ SONGS' TIME : FOR YOUR EYES ONLY ]

SOME OTHER LYRICISTS,OTHER THAN GULZAR ,HAVE CAPTURED THE BEAUTY OF EYES :

1 . Jeevan Se Bhari Teri Ankhein ...

Movie :Safar ;Music : Kalyanji -Anandji ; Lyrics : Indivar

2. Is Jehan Ki Nahi Hai Tumhaari Ankhein

Movie ; King Uncle ; Music : Rajesh Roshan ;Lyrics : Indivar

3.Tere Ankhoen Ke Siva

Movie : Chirag(1969) ;Music : Madan Mohan ;Lyrics : Majrooh

4.Har Taraf Ab Yehi Afsanein Hai

Movie : Hindustan Ki Kasam(1973) ;Music : Madan Mohan ; Lyrics : Kaifi Azmi

5.Title Song Of Aankhen ...

Movie : Aankhen (1968) ;Music : Ravi ; Lyrics : Sahir

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(JOKES BORROWED FROM TELEKIDS , THE TELEGERAPH, )

NEW FORMS OF CRICKET :KILLING TALENTED PLAYERS

ARVIND K.PANDEY

One should not ignore the fact that cricket is fast losing its charm as a game which allowed the players to showcase skills associated with legendary players . It's now turned into pure entertainment , ensuring big sums of money for both the coprporate giants as well as the players. Definitely , time constraints or , for that matter, limitations forced by the modern times cannot be ignored but that should not come at the cost of the better aspects of game . No wonder really talented batsmen like Dravid and Tendulkar would become a thing of past if commercialisation is allowed to dictate the game .In other words , ICC should ensure that sanctity of test matches and one dayers should remain intact .Anyway, it has always been the case that superstars who play well in one dayers fell like pack of cards in test matches -something which demand refined skills not just the abilty to hit sixes and fours !

CASHING IN ON GUJARAT'S RIOTS

ARVIND K.PANDEY

The revelations of Tehelka have come at a wrong time .No doubt , what happened in Gujarat in 2002 needs to be condemned in strong words .But the never- ending politicization of the Gujarat riots does not augur well for the future of Gujarat .The Tehelka would serve the cause of journalism better if it dares to dedicate special issues to more burning issues like menace of Naxalism or , for that matter, growth of Islamic radicals in India and across the globe .

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TOMMY : INSTEAD OF PEOPLE ACTING AS CARRIERS OF JUSTICE ,LET THE COURT DECIDE WHAT PUNISHMENT SHOULD BE AWARDED TO THOSE INVOLVED IN GUJARAT'S RIOTS ..BOW..BOW

PRIYANKA : WELL, BOTH POLITICIANS AND JOURNALISTS COULD GO TO ANY EXTENT TO HAVE THEIR SHARE OF FAME AND CHEAP POPULARITY .WHAT'S REALLY HURT IS THE SELECTIVE PRESENTATION OF FACTS AND EVIDENCES ....MEOW..MEOW

DONT'T BE COPYCAT

ARVIND K.PANDEY

(Posted on BUSINESS WORLD WEBSITE, NOV.05,2007)

The fall in the sale of vernacular dailies is indicative of the fact that they are not representing the cause of common people in a sincere way .Considering the fact that the Hindi newspapers are read by class of people most affected by the the tragic swings of life , these newspapers need to feel the pulse of people than being swayed by the commercial waves . However , reverse is happening . Look at the way Dainik Jagran , more often guided by empty boastings , has turned into sub-standard version of news items appearing in the English dailies .Most of the vernacular dailies are mouthpiece of political parties , having little regard for the trouble plaguing the aam aadmi .Interestingly , both the English and vernacular dailes are in the grip of advertisements and masaala items ,accompanying semi-nude images of models and actresses . No wonder, they have created a huge rift between them and ordinary citizens .

SAGE VALMIKI'S BIRTH ANNIVERSARY

ARVIND K.PANDEY

His great work Ramayana continues to place the divine glory of Lord Rama in the hearts and minds of all the Indians since its creation .

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I bow to Rama , to Ramachandra , to Ramabhadra , the Creator , to the Lord of the Raghus , the Beloved (of Sita ) and the Lord of Sita .

(Invocation in Valmiki Ramyana )

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SUPREME SELF IS THE ONLY REALITY

Sri Rama tells Hanumana " It is the shadow of the Parmatman (Supreme Self)that you see reflected in all the living beings as Jivatman (individual self ) . Don't you see the great sky reflected in each and every lake or river ?"

The Parmatman is the sky which is stationary .Its reflections are not permanent .Just as the sky alone exists , so also the Parmatman , which is Supreme Brahman , is the only reality . All the visible living things are only its reflections .

(From Valmiki Ramayana )

RAM SETHU : GIVE WAY TO BETTER AND SAFER ALTERNATIVE

ARVIND K.PANDEY

The ASI should have made all arrangements to establish the historicity of the Adam's Bridge instead of doubting the existence of Lord Ram . It has totally ignored the fact that rartionality and matters pertaining to faith often don't have a meeting point .Ironically , it has ignored the warnings of the envioromentalists that demolishing Ram Sethu could well mean striking a permanent bond with disasters like Tsunami . It's time for the government to come out with a safer and better alternative than matrializing the older proposal to please the worn-out leaders like M. Karunanidhi .

LAMPOONING HINDU BELIEFS

ARVIND K.PANDEY

(Published in the NORTHERN INDIA PATRIKA ,OCT.24,2007)

The government's affidavit , filed by the Archaeological Survey Of India (ASI), has kept the nation on tenterhooks . Such a prejudiced observation is indicative of the intellectual bankruptcy of the caretakers of this nation . The demand of " incontrovertible proof " to confirm the existence of Lord Ram not only makes mockery of the Hindu senntiments but also bring in light the so-called secular brigade's half-baked understanding of the concept of religion . The matters of faith have always been governed by attributes falling beyond the ambvit of human understanding .Going by the stand of government, the enlightenment of Buddha, the Prophethood of Mohammed , the resurrection of of Christ and other divine phenomenons , resting on the pedestal of indefensible and mysterious factors , are all bogus happenings . The government's stand also undermines Gandhi's supreme association with Lord Ram .Ironically , Gandhi stated that Lord is unseen power ' which makes itself feel and yet defies all proof because it is so unlike all that I perceive from my senses . It is not proved by any extraneous substance.'Lastly , what's the need to go ahead with Sethusamudram project when it's threatening for the marine ecology and absence of Ram Setu could magnify the intensity of Tsunami ?

Mark Tully has rightly stated that there should be no space for " aggressive secularism " which does not believe in expansion of religion in India . Considering the fact that religion has been the essence of India since time immemorial ,it would be a great blunder to " draw an absolute ,hard and fast line , between the role of faith in private and public life " . Probably , this is why our Constitution grants both people as well as institutions total freedom to pursue and expand religion of their choice . What's the merit in raising hue and cry over Hinduism based institutions to carve a way in both social and political domain ? Taking cue from the ancient governance system , it's time for our present rulers to form policies based on constructive and progressive elements of religion . Remember , any attempt to block the extension of religion is going to destabalise the very spirit of India .

However, government's error in not honouring the cultural significance of Ram Setu " flowered from the mindset of insensivity that deems Hinduism , and Hinduism alone , an impediment to modernity , development and cosmopolitanism ." In fact , it has become order of the day , all under the veneer of so-called secular values , to assault the attributes of Hinduism .Over the years , minorityism has sown seeds of frustration and divisiveness among the Hindu groups , struggling hard to uphold the tenets of Hinduism against all odds . Perhaps it is for all these reasons Hindu organisations , symbols and sentiments , associated with Hinduism , are being needlessly targeted .On the other hand , Muslim fundamentalists have been given free hand to execute their nefarious designs since it ensures a strong vote-bank . It appears to be a macabre temptation when it comes to question the intentions and means of Muslim organisations .

At the other end of spectrum , the nude pictures of Hindu gods and goddesses are treated as extension of creative freedom ,the demand for substantial proof of Lord Ram's existence is projected as scientific temper and well-planned destruction of Hindu beliefs as an attempt to move with the times ! The double standards , prevailing in the name of secularism , need to be curbed to prevent mockery of the Hindu ideals .

Lastly , some people have totally failed to intercept the verdict delivered by the Allahabad High Court judge . They seem to be unaware of the perceptions laid down in the Bhagavad Gita , which lays emphasis on inner transformatin of human beings .The Bhagavad Gita neither proclaims idol worship nor promotes life trapped in rituals .It's simply a guiding star for a person wishing to live a balanced life , amid complexities of world , by striking an intimate bond with Impersonal God . Probably , this is why High Court's judge was not hesitant in treating the Bhagavad Gita as National Religious Doctrine . Does they want us to ignore the role of the Bhagavad Gita in raising the consciousness of revolutionaries during Indian freedom movement ? How can recoginition of real significance of Hindu symbols punctures the secular spirit of nation ? Needless to state , mind soaked in borrowed ideals have blocked their ability to honour our ancient legacy or , for that matter , accept the judgement with proper bent of mind in all its totality !

HAVE A REAL GURU TO ATTAIN MOKSHA

ARVIND K.PANDEY

Yogic exercises have always been hot favourite among people wishing to keep a safe distance from side-effects of medicines . However , they could lead to serious complications if not performed under the guidance of auhentic Guru . Today teaching Yoga has turned into lucrative business with every Tom , Dick and Harry claiming themselves to be Yoga Guru ! These fake Gurus place their disciples on road to serious physical disabilties .Most of the Yogic exercises are aimed at healing both mind and body or , in other words , it's a journey from gross to subtle . Thus , it becomes imperative for one to choose one's Guru only after verifying the credentials in light of scriptural directives . Lastly , one should not forget that Yogic exercises are futile if not accompained with change in one's lifestyle .

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TOMMY : IF PRIYANKA IS YOUR YOGA GURU THEN DO ENSURE THAT YOU ARE PLACED CLOSE TO A HOSPITAL..BOW.BOW

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REMEMBERING ASFAQULLAH KHAN ON HIS BIRTH ANNIVERSARY

A MAN WHO DARED TO CHALLENGE THE BRITISHERS IN AGGRESSIVE WAY ,SHAKING THE PILLARS OF THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT IN A BIG WAY .LET THE MODERN INDIA REALIZE THE WOTRH OF THEIR SACRIFICES .

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PROTECTING LIVES OF ANIMALS

ARVIND K.PANDEY

(Published in DOWN TO EARTH, OCT .31,2007)

The verdict delivered in the Salman Khan's case would go a long way in estabilishing the rule of law in the Wildlife domain .True, the Wildlife Protection Act (WPA) needs to be amended to make it at par with the times .But laws alone would not make things better until and unless people ferociously deal with the problems pertaining to the animal world . The legal pundits have rightly opined that glaring loopholes in the WPA allow the accused to get away with their crime .Therefore ,it's necessary that specific clauses which clearly define the nature of crime along with perfect categorization of degree of punishment need to be inserted in the WPA . To make it more efective , let the NGOs or , for that matter , communities , like Bishnoi group, involved in the protection of the endangered species be allowed to intervene in the judicial proceedings as the third party . Considering the fact that it's hard to collect evidences in these matters , let the scope of circumstatial evidences be increased to end the dominance of poachers .

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BEST WISHES ON DUSSEHRA TO EVEREYBODY

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MODELS : NO MORE ROLE MODELS !! -PART II

ARVIND K.PANDEY

(SOME MORE DOGGIES ENTER THE DEBATE AND PRIYANKA'S FRIENDS UNLEASH ANGER )

The infamous twists and turns in the world of glamour are indicative of the fact that behind glitzy appearances , the dark scenes comprising of unfair means and choked back tears rule the roost . It's really surprising that a large chunk of immature minds is too eager to follow their footsteps , thanks to the illusion created by the media , without being bothered about the vulnerabilties encircling a model's life . No wonder they end up as call girls , C-grade actors or , for that matter , join the league of Gitanjalis and Shivanis . One hopes that catastrophic turn of events in the lives of Gitanjali Nagpal and Shivani Kapur , to name a few , would act as an eye-opener for wannabes in the field of modelling . At least, they should come to realize that " All that glitters is not gold " always .

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TOMMY : THAT'S WHY I HATE PRIYANKA AND HER GROUP WHICH BELIEVES IN " SHORT CUT MEANS " TO ACHIEVE SUCCESS IN LIFE ..BOW..BOW ...

KALU :SADLY , THERE ARE NO TAKERS FOR LIFE MOVING AT SLOW SPACE...BOW..BOW

MOTI: METRO RAIL , T20 CRICKET ...LIFE IS NOW NAME OF MOVING AT MADDENING PACE...BOW..BOW..

PRIYANKA : O HELL ! MAKE MONEY AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE AND THEN DIE EARLY WITHOUT HAVING TIME TO ENJOY THEM ..MEOW..MEOW

SHERU : OUICK MARRIAGE TODAY , PHATAPHAT(INSTANT) DIVORCE TOMMOROW . NOBODY CAN DEMONSTRATE IT BETTER OTHER THAN BRITNEY SPEARS ..BOW ..BOW ..

JACKIE : BUDDY , IT'S TIME TO BE IN GRIP OF LIFESTYLE DISEASES .YOU CANNOT BE TRUE MODERNIST WITHOUT BEING IN GRIP OF DISEASES UNLEASHED BY FAST LIFE .LET'S BE IN TUNE WITH THE TIMES ..BOW ..BOW

[PRIYNKA'S FRIENDS LASH OUT AGAINST TOMMY FOR MAKING OUTRAGEOUS STATEMENTS AGAINST PRIYANKA EVERY NOW AND THEN )

KALUVI : SEXAPLOITATION HAS NOW ATTAINED DIGNIFIED FORM IN THE MODERN SOCIETY .TOMMY , THE INCARNATION OF STONE-AGE MENTALITY , DOSEN'T SEEM TO BE AWARE OF THE LATEST THOUGHT PATTERN .ASK THE CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY UNDERGRADUATES ,WORKING AS PROSTITUTES AND STRIPPERS TO PAY THEIR FEES ! WORSE , BRITISH NATIONAL MEDIA FINDS NOTHING WRONG IN IT ...MEOW..MEOW

BHANUMATI : TOMMY IS BHONDU (DULL OR STUPID ) , PRIYANKA IS CUTE . WHY ? TOMMY , LIKE A BABY , TAKES HALF AN HOUR TO SIP A CUPPA OF TEA . OUR PRIYANKA TAKES LESS THAN A MINUTE TO SIP KATORA (BOWL ) FULL OF MILK ...MEOW ..MEOW

{Tommmy : And Managing To Leave The Place Before The Arrival Of Actual Owner Of The Milk .It's Hit Or Miss -Priyanka's Head Or Owner's Laathi (Stick ) being the case always ...Bow ..Bow ..

Kalu : It's Matter Of Great Satisfaction That The Indian Cats Are Used To Drinking Milk Unlike British And American Cats Drinking Milk From An Early Stage .Or Else , It Would Have Been A Common Sight To Find Priyanka Doing Shadow Boxing Right On The Middle Of The Road..Bow..Bow }

RAMKALI : WHEN EVERYTHING IS BECOMING ULTRA , THE ATTITUDE OF SARKARI EMPLOYEES , LIKE TOMMY , IS STIL CAUGHT IN THE TIME -WARP .THEIR PRIZE POSSESSION -
THE FILES- TAKE YEARS TO MOVE FROM ONE TABLE TO ANOTHER AND , THAT TOO, WHEN BAKED IN HEAT OF GREEN NOTES .WHEN WILL THE FILES MOVE LIKE METRO RAIL ? CERTAINLY, IT'S A DISTANT DREAM , ISN'T IT ? ..MEOW..MEOW

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REDUCING POVERTY

ARVIND K.PANDEY

(Published in BUSINESS INDIA, OCT. 21, 2007)

It's surprising that governments often love to rise above their liabilties by taking help of system which allows them to ignore the concerns of people .How come success of poverty-reduction programmes became heavily dependent on NGOs ? Why is government shy of pursuing programmes related to overall development of people ? Probably , a class of people , in league with total development of their potential , is of no use for power-hungry politicians ! It's necessary that people remain trapped in misrey so that politicians an cash-on-it to confirm berth in corridors of power . It should have been clear to the policy-makers that once free market is allowed to rule the roost , it would be near impossible task to do justics with principles ensurintg quality life to the downtroddens . Well, instead of showing faith in " trickle down " , India needs concrete programmes to raise the standard of living of poors . Certainly , this cannot be achieved by silly exhortions to the rich of India not to flaunt " a vulgar display of wealth " .

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WISHES TO MAA'S LOVERS ,AND ALSO TO THE PEOPLE WAITING FOR THE DUSSEHRA NIGHT .

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MODELS : NO MORE ROLE MODELS ! -PART I

ARVIND K.PANDEY

The infamous twists and turns in the world of glamour are indicative of the fact that behind glitzy appearances , the dark scenes comprising of unfair means and choked back tears rule the roost . It's really surprising that a large chunk of immature minds is too eager to follow their footsteps , thanks to the illusion created by the media , without being bothered about the vulnerabilties encircling a model's life . No wonder they end up as call girls , C-grade actors or , for that matter , join the league of Gitanjalis and Shivanis . One hopes that catastrophic turn of events in the lives of Gitanjali Nagpal and Shivani Kapur , to name a few , would act as an eye-opener for wannabes in the field of modelling . At least, they should come to realize that " All that glitters is not gold " always .

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TOMMY : THAT'S WHY I HATE PRIYANKA AND HER GROUP WHICH BELIEVES IN " SHORT CUT MEANS " TO ACHIEVE SUCCESS IN LIFE ..BOW..BOW ...

KALU :SADLY , THERE ARE NO TAKERS FOR LIFE MOVING AT SLOW SPACE...BOW..BOW

MOTI: METRO RAIL , T20 CRICKET ...LIFE IS NOW NAME OF MOVING AT MADDENING PACE...BOW..BOW..

PRIYANKA : O HELL ! MAKE MONEY AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE AND THEN DIE EARLY WITHOUT HAVING TIME TO ENJOY THEM ..MEOW..MEOW

INDIA WINS WORLD TWENTY20 FINAL

ARVIND K.PANDEY

Mahendra Singh Dhoni's deep faith in abilties of unsung heroes enabled India to make its most cherished dream come true at Johensburg . One cannot ignore the fact that absence of senior players and coach did not come to weaken the determination and hopes of the Indian team .The victory over Pakistan is extension of enthusiasm shown by the young brigade ,which went well with out-of-the-box thinking displayed by Dhoni . His approach shatters the established myth that only aggressive attitude and experience produce desired result . His level-headed understanding of the game and cool mannerism mired in the positive instincts made him to steer the course of game in his favour at critical junctures . How else can one take an extraordinary step of handing the ball to Joginder Sharma in semi final and final , ignoring star bowlers laced with experience of bowling final overs in pressure tight situations ? The most wanted victory in dream final of ICC World Twenty20 would surely help India to achieve new heights in future . Lastly , the victory once again proves that youths have power to change the course of destiny if they are given total freedom to be in league with their natural tendencies !

YOUTHS : IN ARMS OF FAITH

ARVIND K.PANDEY

(Published in GRAPHITI ,THE TELEGRAPH, OCTOBER 14,2007)

We are living in difficult times , which has given rise to complex patterns of living .So it's not very unusual for the young and trendy to be on the boat of faith to keep themselves above psychological disorders .The latest researches have confirmed the fact meditation and prayers are panacea for people trapped in pressure-cooker lifestyle . Anyway , it's interesting to know that religious fervour dominates over scientific temperament among Generation X !

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TOMMY : IT'S ANOTHER THINK THAT LORD HAS TO THINK TWICE BEFORE FULFILLING THE WISHES OF PRIYANKA.AFTER ALL , HOW LORD CAN ALLOW HER TO RELISH ON MILK MEANT FOR DOGGIES LIVING BELOW POVERTY LINE ? IT'S REALLY TRAGIC THAT ARTICLES MEANT FOR POOR PEOPLE GOES TO THE UNDESERVING PEOPLE VIA SECRET ROUTES !! BOW ..BOW

INDO -US NUCLEAR DEAL

ARVIND K.PANDEY

(Published in BUSINESS ECONOMICS, OCT.15,2007)

The give and take on both sides , between India and US , seems to have taken a grim turn with the Red Brigade refusing to put a seal of approval on the Indo-Us nuclear deal . True, the role of US cannot be undermined if India wishes to use nuclear power in a constructive way . In other words , India has to set-up new re-processing centres besides taking all measures to prevent untoward incidents associated with nuclear reactors . Needless to say , we need America's help at various stage. However , this dependency should not be used as pretxt to allow our nuclear programmes to be dictatd by the laws of US. A foreign country should not be provided opportunity to make inroads into our defenece mechanism , leading to grave threat for the sovereignty of the nation . The problem with present Indo-US nuclear deal is that the Hyde Act ensures that India gets wedded with likes and dislikes of US in determining the course of its nuclear dreams .

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CURIOUS WHEAT POLICY

ARVIND K.PANDEY

(Posted on BUSINESS WORLD WEBSITE )

The wheat policy of the UPA government is marred by curious contradictions .On one hand , it has no time to heed to genuine demands of the wheat producers ,who have to sell their produce via middlemen to elicit better prices . On the other hand , the government is importing wheat at high rates from other countries . This bad economics and worse politics have taken toll on not only wheat production but also worsened the state of affairs of the wheat producers .Surprisingly , the benefits offered to the farmers after lot of hue and cry serves little purpose other than ensuring survival of political creatures . Today , most of the farmers are reeling under problems triggered by lack of irrigation facilties and erratic power supply .At least , the government should not ingnore its moral responsibilty of providing basic facilities to the farmers so that they can hope of better days .

GULZAR :THE MASTER CREATOR

ARVIND K .PANDEY

(Published in THE SUNDAY INDIAN, OCT.14- OCT.21, 2007)

Gulzar , the master creator of surrealistic songs , continues to sway the present genertion with power of his pen .Though he is well past 70 years , he never fails to make changes to be at par with the needs of times . Some of his songs like Tu neel samunder hain (Guru), Bidi jalaile (Omkara ) , Naina das lengein and Ticket to Hollywood (Jhoom Barabar Jhoom ) , to name a few , are indicative of his rare ability to grasp the moods of generation caught in likes and dislikes heaped on it by the Western world . What's more he has prevented himself from the compulsions triggered by the market-oriented world . The best thing about Gulzar is that he has encoutered harsh realities of life besides being in touch with every nook and corner of real India . What adds staying power in his songs is the by-product of realistic experiences in the crucible of imagination .

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TOMMY : Only Gulzar has the abilty to go beyond the obvious , weaving unheard similies from the most ordinary things or , for that matter , creating similarity between two dissimilar perceptions .Just look at the way how Gulzar has viewed " Eyes " from four different angles of thought ,dazzling with unique vision . ...BOW ..BOW

FOUR SONGS OF GULZAR BASED ON EYES :

1. Humnein Dekhein Hai Un Ankhoen Ki Mahkati Khusboen ...

Movie : Khamoshi( 1969) ; Music : Hemant Kumar ;Lyrics : Gulzar

(Gulzar was ridiculed for penning this song as he dared to associate " Khusbu (Smell)" with eyes .However,the song became a huge hit, silencing the crticis forever . )

2. Roshni Se Bharein -Bharein Naina Tere ..

Movie : Ashoka (2001); Music : Anu Malik ; Lyrics : Gulzar

3. Ankhoen Mein Humnein Aapkein Sapnein Sajayein Hai ..

Movie : Thodi Se Bewafai ; Music : Khaiyyaam ;Lyrics : Gulzar

4.Kajrareein-Kajrarein Tere Kaarein Karrein Naina ..

Movie :Bunty Aur Babli(2005);Music: Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy ; Lyrics : Gulzar

KISHORE KUMAR DEATH ANNIVERSARY (OCT.13)

Lastly , dedicating a Gulzar's song to Kishore Kumar on his death anniversary .Kishore Kumar enabled Dev Anand , Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan to attain starry heights simply by the sweetness of his voice ..

5.Phir Wohi Raat Hai ...

Movie : Ghar ; Music : RD Burman ;Lyrics : Gulzar

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EID MUBARAK TO EVEREBODY

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WATER WATER EVERYWHEWRE ?

ARVIND K.PANDEY

(Published in NEWSWEEK, OCTOBER 15,2007)

Tempers have risen over the monopoly of water resources in India. The dogfight over distribution of the Cauvery's waters between the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, the increasing tension between India and Pakistan over various water-related projects, and potential conflicts are threatening India's integrity. Ensuring a steady supply of water led to mindless digging, which lowered the ground level of water. Above all, the direct outpouring of industrial wastes into major rivers like the Ganges and the Yamuna is killing these rivers and limiting the supply of fresh water to the cities situated on their banks. Ways to save water must be found to avoid conflicts' turning into major crises. Checking the flow of industrial wastes into rivers would ensure longevity of these rivers. It is also imperative to control population.

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EID MUBARAK TO EVERYBODY ..

SHYAM BENEGAL : A REALISTIC FILMMAKER

ARVIND K.PANDEY

(Published in DASH, OCTOBER , 2007)

Shyam Benegal has dared to enrich cinematic landscape with making movies loaded with radical ideas. Like in his movie Ankur he has been successful in giving the impression that it's not impossible to turn the tables in society dominated by feudalistic perceptions . His movies mainly centred around social and political dilemmas enveloping the society . As a matter of fact , he tries to force viewers to don the thinking cap by bringing to the fore various shades of problems plaguing the society . He has helped many actors including Smita Patil and Naseeruddin Shah , to name a few , to carve a niche for themselves in the world of realitic cinema.

However, having said that , let me state that the dircetors of the art cinema are responsible for failing to intercept the mood of viewers with the changing times . Though it's an uphill task to project complex themes in a lighter vein , the art to present complex themes in a palatable way has to be learnt by the moviemakers .It's a harsh reality that satellite channels and Doordarshan have been held hostage to the variety of cheap entertainment - all in the name of catering to the taste of new generation .To bring a change , it's necessary that art filmmakers learn to blend their serious themes with interesting styles .

THE ATTRIBUTES OF TRUE EDUCATION

ARVIND K.PANDEY

(Published in THE TIMES OF INDIA , OCT.11,2007)

According to Tagore the purpose of education is to train not only the mind but also the heart ." Universities should never be made into mechanical organizations for collecting and distributing knowledge" (Tagore). Unfortunately , the pressure to perform haunts the present-age childeren right from the day one at schoool .Both the parents and the teachers come to evaluate the strengths of child on the basis of marks attained in the examination .It's time to look beyond these petty standards with initiatives which make student the ideal component of a society .One is shocked to find that educational patterns have turned into medium to serve materialistic prospects of the globalised world instead of carving new routes for expansion of the human self .No wonder the modern student speaks more like a shrewd businessman rather than articulating like a refined intellectual in league with with concerns of the society !

ALLAHABADI APPRECIATING ANOTHER ALLAHABADI

ARVIND K.PANDEY

Many Heartfelt Compliments To Amitabh Bachchan On His Birthday

TOMMY : I'm 100% Allahabadi .So I cannot prevent myself from heaping epithets on this chap hailing from Allahabad .It's time to unleash heartfelt bow -bow for him ....BOW..BOW

KALU : His golden period is over .Let him either stop acting or be very selective in signing a new movie . Hipswinging with young girls or , for that matter , burning in impure " Aag " appears very cheap to his sincere fans .....BOW..BOW

MOTI : Can't he show his acting skills in movies with a realistic script ? What's the point in getting involved in messy relationship with a very young girl in Nishabd ? He should remain above currents of globalisation , proclaiming unethical relationship , instead of flowing with them . LET LOILTAGIRI REMAIN A PHENOMENON IN THE WEST ONLY !!!! BOW..BOW

SHERU : Amitabh should decide whether he is farmer or actor ? Be careful before claiming ownewrship over land !! BOW ...BOW

PRIYANKA : A piece of advice to Shah Rukh Khan and film pundits : Please don't make rat harbour illusion