The time has come-to face the reality. Last night the ultimate chapter of Deathly Hallows reluctantly turned it’s final page and I bid my Goodbye to Harry Potter forever. The final confrontation between The-Boy-Who-Lived and He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named is over. The choice has been made between what’s good and what’s right. Well, talking about the book, J.K. Rowling’s monumental, spellbinding epic, 10 years in the making, I must say it’s concluded extraordinarily with stalking revelation and precision.
The first time I took the book in my trembling hands, I could feel an unusual combination of excitement and regret. I’ve been waiting for this moment for so long. It has been around eight years ago when I finished the first book that I’ve been dying to read this particular one. And yet when I looked at it, felt it in real, I almost did not want to read it. I did not want the experience to be over for me.
Nevertheless I apparently did open the book and felt a surge of nostalgia when I saw the familiar looking page of the first chapter with even more familiar characters. Once I commenced reading and fastened my eyes to the book, I almost felt like someone had cast a spell on me. I literally couldn’t control from burying myself into it and got up for breakfast only after my mom’s diatribe. I stopped reading a few times, compelling myself to go more slowly just to savor the most awaited experience. But before I knew I was hidden in the book again and looked up only after turning the 759th page.
The whole plot is more than just a coming-of-age tale about some orphaned boy. The entire series has been quite phenomenal and I can undoubtedly say without exposing anything about Hallows that this is the most enthralling one. J.K Rowling moves quite effortlessly between Ron’s adolescent jokes and Harry’s blatant severity.
It’s about time that you realize that Harry is no longer a mere dark-haired, bemused little boy with a scar on his forehead. In this book, he faces what most grown-ups won’t even dream of confronting. Some people still think of Harry Potter as sheer children’s reading. But if you go through the pages of Deathly Hallows, expecting flying cars, revolving staircases, lip-smacking goodies and floating ghosts then you are in a position of getting a rude shock. (Read the opening chapter if you don’t believe me). This book being the most hair-raising of them all, I read most of the chapters either with my heart in my throat or sitting bolt upright on the edge of my seat. There were some scenes in the earlier books that took you on an emotional turmoil. In this book, such incidents seem to come in every alternate chapter. From his very first day at Hogwarts, when he was burdened with the responsibilities of his role as a leader and coping with expectations of being destiny’s chosen one, Harry is further pushed into the complexities of carrying out his duties and miseries of being on the brink of adulthood. No doubt Harry seems to be overwhelmed with cynicism and uncertainty in this final volume of the seven-part dictionary-sized volumes. Harry’s journey in this one prepares him towards a final showdown and also sends him back in his past to witness something he had desired since ages.
In the end to describe the book in a word, it’s exceptional! Yes, there are scenes like the opening scene, Harry and the gang flying over waters of London, Voldemort penetrating Harry’s mind and the high profile drama that unfolds in the Gringotts that had be whimpering and exclaiming loudly. And when two of Harry’s most loved professors die, when his best friend returns in time to save him, when he visits his parent’s grave, when he digs a grave for his savior, when the hatred he felt towards one of the characters since the book one vanishes in one single chapter and when he walks towards his own death with an unusual but complete acceptance, I cried.
The Six hundred and seventy five rupees I spent, my train journey at early hours of 21st morning, standing in queue to get hold of the copy and then giving up hang-outs, hour-long phone conversations and a complete detachment from the muggle-world, while constantly reminding friends and family that I have not in fact lost my mind- all worth it…!
Devashree P.S
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Musings of a Harry Potter fan on the eve of final showdown...
The time has come…It’s a final showdown, an end of an era for all the Potter maniacs. As the last chapter of the book turns it’s final page, we’ll say our ultimate Goodbye to Harry, forever. It’s hard to imagine, difficult to believe and impossible to accept the fact that Harry will no longer continue to charm us and enthrall our senses. I don’t want to get deliberately sappy here, but I’ve been a part of this whole phenomenon for more than seven years now- so Harry Potter has quite obviously been a huge HUGE part of my life. For me, it has always been escapism from the present reality to an unknown yet familiar world of fantasy. Yes, I’m a self-confessed Harry Potter maniac. I do wish I had an invisibility cloak, wish I could transfigure things and apparate at will.
Like million others who are not a part of this magical population, I too tried to distance myself from Harry, initially when my sister forced me to read it. Thinking of it as mere children’s book, I resisted it for a longest time. Until, one day for the sake of my sis, I half-heartedly took the first book in my hands. And as I started turning the pages, little did I know that I was entering the world, which I would become a part of, for the rest of my life. I instantly got glued to HP and read all the three books that had come till then and waited with baited breath for the forth to arrive. Since then this tradition continues. Before every book release, I get jitters, anxiety attacks and pangs of excitement that I can’t contain.
But this time, it’s going to be different. Because, this time we know there isn’t going to be a next time. After reading each of the previous books, I thought that it would be hard for me when the last book ultimately falls in my hands. But now, when the time has actually come, I’m realizing it’s even harder. Will there ever be anyone as astonishing as Harry? Would you love any teacher in the world more than Dumbledore? Will you ever loathe anyone but Snape? And even if you try your best, where will you find better friends than Ron and Hermione? After living with Harry for so many years, it’s difficult to bring it to a closing stage. There is an excitement that is unrivaled and a sense of bereavement at the same time. After years of reading, theorizing, re-reading, debating, re-re-reading and discussing we have finally reached our destination and wow, what a ride it has been! Like many, I’ve literally grown up with Harry and I’ll definitely feel a part of me will be gone.
The non-readers think it as insanity, but for Potter enthusiasts, there will be nothing like Harry for the rest of their lives. Surely enough, the intense bond that the readers have attained the world over with Harry and the gang is difficult to bring to a close.
But, I’m sure, even though JK stops writing about Harry, the story will continue for the fans. Practically, the phenomenon will end but emotionally Harry Potter will remain carved in the hearts of all those who have been fortunate enough to be its part.
I‘ll never forget all those people who became my friends just because I saw one of the HP books in their hands. We did everything together- laughed at Ron’s jokes, flew over the waters of London on a broomstick, cheered for Harry in Quidditch and mourned the death of our loved characters. Given a chance I would die to go back in time and re-live my past seven years just to cherish the moments one last time.
But looking at this bittersweet moment’s bright side, I got to be a part of the biggest literary event in the history. And I can’t thank J.K Rowling enough for this magnificent gift.
Like million others who are not a part of this magical population, I too tried to distance myself from Harry, initially when my sister forced me to read it. Thinking of it as mere children’s book, I resisted it for a longest time. Until, one day for the sake of my sis, I half-heartedly took the first book in my hands. And as I started turning the pages, little did I know that I was entering the world, which I would become a part of, for the rest of my life. I instantly got glued to HP and read all the three books that had come till then and waited with baited breath for the forth to arrive. Since then this tradition continues. Before every book release, I get jitters, anxiety attacks and pangs of excitement that I can’t contain.
But this time, it’s going to be different. Because, this time we know there isn’t going to be a next time. After reading each of the previous books, I thought that it would be hard for me when the last book ultimately falls in my hands. But now, when the time has actually come, I’m realizing it’s even harder. Will there ever be anyone as astonishing as Harry? Would you love any teacher in the world more than Dumbledore? Will you ever loathe anyone but Snape? And even if you try your best, where will you find better friends than Ron and Hermione? After living with Harry for so many years, it’s difficult to bring it to a closing stage. There is an excitement that is unrivaled and a sense of bereavement at the same time. After years of reading, theorizing, re-reading, debating, re-re-reading and discussing we have finally reached our destination and wow, what a ride it has been! Like many, I’ve literally grown up with Harry and I’ll definitely feel a part of me will be gone.
The non-readers think it as insanity, but for Potter enthusiasts, there will be nothing like Harry for the rest of their lives. Surely enough, the intense bond that the readers have attained the world over with Harry and the gang is difficult to bring to a close.
But, I’m sure, even though JK stops writing about Harry, the story will continue for the fans. Practically, the phenomenon will end but emotionally Harry Potter will remain carved in the hearts of all those who have been fortunate enough to be its part.
I‘ll never forget all those people who became my friends just because I saw one of the HP books in their hands. We did everything together- laughed at Ron’s jokes, flew over the waters of London on a broomstick, cheered for Harry in Quidditch and mourned the death of our loved characters. Given a chance I would die to go back in time and re-live my past seven years just to cherish the moments one last time.
But looking at this bittersweet moment’s bright side, I got to be a part of the biggest literary event in the history. And I can’t thank J.K Rowling enough for this magnificent gift.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Not Just Another review..!
Move over all the singing portraits, revolving staircases, flying cars and ghosts chatting with the students in the mid-air. And welcome to the real world of Harry Potter, which is insightful in mystery, bursting with adventure and thoughtful in emotions. For the sake of understanding this review, let’s divide the audience into magical population- those who’ve read the book and the muggles (non-magic people). Some might not appreciate me for this, but I’m a self-confessed HP maniac. I do wish I had an invisibility cloak, wish I could transfigure things (no, not people) and apparate at will.
Recently I went (along with rest of the world) to watch JK Rowling’s fifth literary creation brought to life on screen. I couldn’t help but notice a few muggles sitting besides me and the way they were reacting throughout the film.
I went a good half hour prior to the screening time, was the first one to wait nearest to the theatre’s entrance and practically bustled myself inside the moment the doors opened. (The muggles were busy debating whether to buy the extra large popcorn bucket..). I waited with baited breath for the magic to begin. It did and how!
The movie commences exactly like the book with Dudley getting attacked by the dementors (for muggles- the ghost-like creatures who can suck all the happiness out of you) in the most unpredictable location of No.4 Privet Drive. A few details are altered with the scene immediately switching to Harry being left alone at home, only to find himself in the company of his rescuers. The scene that follows is spectacular with Harry along with the rest of the wizards fly with the wind over the waters of London, with the city sparkling at night below them. (at this point the muggles were thinking of the movie not being so incomprehensible afterall!)You enjoy yourselves thoroughly and fancy the movie just like you did while watching the previous HP movies. Until…the moment comes when Harry meets with his two best friends. Instead of the usual greeting, he snaps at them, leaving them and the audience in state of disbelief. It is about time you realize that Harry is no longer a kid and that HP is something more than mere magic and fantasy. Also all the moments he shares with his Godfather especially the one when he confronts him and tells him about his persisting rage, is worth noting. It is the scenes like these that assures you that there are some things that go beyond sheer special effects (although they will enthrall your senses in this movie).
The movie then progresses in a positive direction, expanding the lines of the 766-page long book and intensifying the plot. With no unnecessary introduction to Quidditch, Dobby or Hagrid’s tale, which goes fairly unnoticeable, the plot further thickens as the movie evolves. While the scenes like Sirius appearing in the fire (which left the muggles around me thoroughly disgruntled) there are few scenes like the trio discussing Harry and Cho’s relationship, Hermione and Ron’s dueling and entry of the evil Professor Umbridge that had the muggles around me smile slightly. (I was in splits!). By the time the movie reaches the intermission, I noticed that the muggle on my left stifling a yawn, while the muggle to his left looked like he was in a Divination lecture (for muggles- that’s the lesson during which even Harry sleeps), and I quite didn’t get the expression of the third one in the dark.
The movie continues. The muggles return with double the quantity of popcorn than before, expecting (read, hoping) to get their money’s worth at least in the second half. While the Ministry scenes are directed in accordance to the book, special effects done for Hagrid’s brother- the giant Grawp are noteworthy. The trio along with some of their selected friends who volunteer to accompany them reach the Ministry, follow the instructions of Harry’s “vision”, only to find out that they are being tricked by Voldemort (oops…He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named) (for muggles- the ultimate villain and the guy who killed Harry’s parents and made him “The” Harry Potter). The rest is just like the book. They all are captured by the Death-eaters (For Muggles- Lord Voldemort’s supporters) and held at stake till the Dark Lord himself appears to fight his equal.
The scene with Dumbledore and Voldemort coming face-to-face to duel had the muggles in a bit of awe. (Only because of the magnificent special effects). And the one where Harry reacts after he witnesses death of his loved one brought their continuous popcorn- munching to a momentary halt. (The scene had me shed tears)…(ok, cry buckets…but whatever!)
Harry then drops at Dumbledore’s feet possessed by the Dark Lord himself. (Muggles near me were wondering what on earth was happening). The rest, well the magical population knows and the muggles are no longer bothered.
But what left even me, a die-hard Potter fanatic a bit disappointed is the absence of the heart-to-heart, revealing and gripping conversation between Harry and Dumbledore at the end, which forms the crust of the book. (screw the time constraints..)
But of course between what should have been and what is, the movie leaves you with utmost satisfaction. Rich in its content, full of emotions and splendid in adventure this movie surely acts as a prologue for the seventh book.
I silently come out of the theatre (after all the credits finally stop rolling ofcourse) engulfed with a wave of mixed emotions.
Will there ever be someone as astonishing as Harry? Will you ever love any teacher in the world more than Prof.Dumbledore? Or will there ever be a person who you loathe more than Snape? And even if you try your best, where would you find better friends than Ron and Hermione!? After living with Harry for so many years, it's difficult to bring it to a closing stage. The thought keeps on haunting me, (especially now that the end is just three days away when the final book makes it's grand entry...). There is an excitement that is unrivaled and at the same time a sense of bereavement. You feel like one of your extended family member is about to leave you forever. The non-readers believe it's insanity. But for the readers, there will be nothing like Harry for the rest of their lives. We all will be saying Good-Bye to Harry in our own ways and request the muggles not to interfere (for their own good).
Yes, that's what Harry Potter does to you...It makes you escape the reality, sit on the edge of your seat and beg for more...
Devashree P.S
Recently I went (along with rest of the world) to watch JK Rowling’s fifth literary creation brought to life on screen. I couldn’t help but notice a few muggles sitting besides me and the way they were reacting throughout the film.
I went a good half hour prior to the screening time, was the first one to wait nearest to the theatre’s entrance and practically bustled myself inside the moment the doors opened. (The muggles were busy debating whether to buy the extra large popcorn bucket..). I waited with baited breath for the magic to begin. It did and how!
The movie commences exactly like the book with Dudley getting attacked by the dementors (for muggles- the ghost-like creatures who can suck all the happiness out of you) in the most unpredictable location of No.4 Privet Drive. A few details are altered with the scene immediately switching to Harry being left alone at home, only to find himself in the company of his rescuers. The scene that follows is spectacular with Harry along with the rest of the wizards fly with the wind over the waters of London, with the city sparkling at night below them. (at this point the muggles were thinking of the movie not being so incomprehensible afterall!)You enjoy yourselves thoroughly and fancy the movie just like you did while watching the previous HP movies. Until…the moment comes when Harry meets with his two best friends. Instead of the usual greeting, he snaps at them, leaving them and the audience in state of disbelief. It is about time you realize that Harry is no longer a kid and that HP is something more than mere magic and fantasy. Also all the moments he shares with his Godfather especially the one when he confronts him and tells him about his persisting rage, is worth noting. It is the scenes like these that assures you that there are some things that go beyond sheer special effects (although they will enthrall your senses in this movie).
The movie then progresses in a positive direction, expanding the lines of the 766-page long book and intensifying the plot. With no unnecessary introduction to Quidditch, Dobby or Hagrid’s tale, which goes fairly unnoticeable, the plot further thickens as the movie evolves. While the scenes like Sirius appearing in the fire (which left the muggles around me thoroughly disgruntled) there are few scenes like the trio discussing Harry and Cho’s relationship, Hermione and Ron’s dueling and entry of the evil Professor Umbridge that had the muggles around me smile slightly. (I was in splits!). By the time the movie reaches the intermission, I noticed that the muggle on my left stifling a yawn, while the muggle to his left looked like he was in a Divination lecture (for muggles- that’s the lesson during which even Harry sleeps), and I quite didn’t get the expression of the third one in the dark.
The movie continues. The muggles return with double the quantity of popcorn than before, expecting (read, hoping) to get their money’s worth at least in the second half. While the Ministry scenes are directed in accordance to the book, special effects done for Hagrid’s brother- the giant Grawp are noteworthy. The trio along with some of their selected friends who volunteer to accompany them reach the Ministry, follow the instructions of Harry’s “vision”, only to find out that they are being tricked by Voldemort (oops…He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named) (for muggles- the ultimate villain and the guy who killed Harry’s parents and made him “The” Harry Potter). The rest is just like the book. They all are captured by the Death-eaters (For Muggles- Lord Voldemort’s supporters) and held at stake till the Dark Lord himself appears to fight his equal.
The scene with Dumbledore and Voldemort coming face-to-face to duel had the muggles in a bit of awe. (Only because of the magnificent special effects). And the one where Harry reacts after he witnesses death of his loved one brought their continuous popcorn- munching to a momentary halt. (The scene had me shed tears)…(ok, cry buckets…but whatever!)
Harry then drops at Dumbledore’s feet possessed by the Dark Lord himself. (Muggles near me were wondering what on earth was happening). The rest, well the magical population knows and the muggles are no longer bothered.
But what left even me, a die-hard Potter fanatic a bit disappointed is the absence of the heart-to-heart, revealing and gripping conversation between Harry and Dumbledore at the end, which forms the crust of the book. (screw the time constraints..)
But of course between what should have been and what is, the movie leaves you with utmost satisfaction. Rich in its content, full of emotions and splendid in adventure this movie surely acts as a prologue for the seventh book.
I silently come out of the theatre (after all the credits finally stop rolling ofcourse) engulfed with a wave of mixed emotions.
Will there ever be someone as astonishing as Harry? Will you ever love any teacher in the world more than Prof.Dumbledore? Or will there ever be a person who you loathe more than Snape? And even if you try your best, where would you find better friends than Ron and Hermione!? After living with Harry for so many years, it's difficult to bring it to a closing stage. The thought keeps on haunting me, (especially now that the end is just three days away when the final book makes it's grand entry...). There is an excitement that is unrivaled and at the same time a sense of bereavement. You feel like one of your extended family member is about to leave you forever. The non-readers believe it's insanity. But for the readers, there will be nothing like Harry for the rest of their lives. We all will be saying Good-Bye to Harry in our own ways and request the muggles not to interfere (for their own good).
Yes, that's what Harry Potter does to you...It makes you escape the reality, sit on the edge of your seat and beg for more...
Devashree P.S
Sunday, May 27, 2007
My farewell speech...
When they were trying to find someone to give this speech they first asked the most intelligent, smart person they could find. But she turned them down. So then they asked the most beautiful, lovely, attractive person they could find. She also turned them down. Next they asked the nicest, sweetest, kindest, most sincere person they could find. Then I decided it would be rude to turn them down three times in a row, so here I am.
How many people here like tomato soup? Come on; raise your hand if you like tomato soup. OK, thank you. That was a really simple question, you either like it or you don't. I wish our college had been that easy. However, as we all know, it wasn't.
As someone who has voluntarily stepped up to this job of giving a “perfect” farewell speech, you expect me to speak something intelligent and scholarly. But I’m not.
This is the third time in the year that I’m standing on this platform and delivering a speech. And before I commence I want you all to do me a favor and take a look at your fellow classmates and professors. Maybe this is the last time you are going to see most of them. This might be a happy and comforting thought to many of you.
Since giving my 10th Std Board Exams and passing them, I’ve wondered when it’s all going to be over, finally! I thought it would be over at least after 12th. But how highly mistaken was I! Today when I think that it would be finally over once and for all, I know I’m wrong yet again. Because that’s what I’ve learnt in the past five years of my life- that its never really over. It’s not the destination but the journey that really matters. Bitter, but true.
Tomorrow we are all going to go in different directions. What direction each takes doesn’t matter. Whether you do banking, designing, VJing or something as bizarre as commercial fossil fuel distribution, it doesn’t matter what you are doing- but what or more rightly who you are. And its extremely important to immensely thank those who have made us what we are today as a person. Today I’m really privileged to stand in front of three individuals who have given us our identity. And I cannot thank you enough for all that you have done for us. I know we haven’t even reciprocated even a fraction of that towards you. But we all do promise to, in near future or at least try our best in doing so.
When I first came to this college five years ago, trust me I did not have a very good first impression. And this would be my honest confession when I say that I often joined other students in criticizing our college canteen, library, its office staff, etc. Then time just flew by, gradually taking away with it, my stupid thoughts and opinions. I never know when I started cheering for this college, chanting its name on top of my voice, defending it against all other colleges and feeling deeply sad when it lacked behind. Today I can undoubtedly say that I’m a proud “Sathayeiite”. Because this is what I’ve learnt- Just a thousand bricks do not make up a college. A building with just four walls does not make up a canteen and just couple of chairs does not make up a library. The real strength of our college lies in the honesty, integrity and wholeness of our professors. A building with just walls, benches and blackboards would be like trashcan where people come and throw their dirt, their fears, insecurities, worries and doubts. It is the teachers that make the very trashcan a temple- a place of worship, dignity and respect. It is them that make an ordinary child- a student.
So, today for me, this is not only an opportunity to speak in front of people for whom I’ve tremendous respect for (and I’m talking only of the teachers) but an occasion to be grateful towards them from the bottom of my heart. Right now, words fail me while converting my feelings into words and expressing my thoughts through this speech in acknowledging you three. But I would be echoing the voice of everyone present here when I think that a simple “Thank You’ is most appropriate. So, Thanks a million- not just for teaching us academics but making a difference in our lives. You will always remain Sanjeevani and Asuthi maam for us for the rest of our lives. (Partially because we never quite knew Sanjeevani maam’s last name and Asuthi maam’s first name)
And now, a piece of advice for my fellow classmates- (I know I’m the last person to distribute advices) but this is more of a thought than a advice- So, I’ll not direct it towards “You” and instead say “We”…We should always aim high in whatever we do in our lives- Our greatest fear is not that our aim is too high and that we can’t attain it, but that our aim was so low that we actually reached it. Because humanity is divided into three parts-.1) those who make things happen. . 2. Those who watch things happen. . 3. and those who don't know what's happening." Like most of you right now, who are clueless about what I’m blabbering. So whatever you do, always keep your head high- even if it doesn’t concern anything to academics- don’t just sit home idly or worse go to jail. Be honest with yourself. It would be a bit clichéd or even over exaggerated when I say that amongst us I see the first female President or the first Indian to win an Oscar.
And finally, maams we all are going to miss you tremendously. I hope you’ll miss us too. Usually professors miss students or remember students based on how intelligent and smart they were, or how they excelled in extra curricular activities and made the college proud…But in my case, I hope you’ll remember me whenever you’ll see an empty blackboard without a thought. Thank You all and Thank You again…
How many people here like tomato soup? Come on; raise your hand if you like tomato soup. OK, thank you. That was a really simple question, you either like it or you don't. I wish our college had been that easy. However, as we all know, it wasn't.
As someone who has voluntarily stepped up to this job of giving a “perfect” farewell speech, you expect me to speak something intelligent and scholarly. But I’m not.
This is the third time in the year that I’m standing on this platform and delivering a speech. And before I commence I want you all to do me a favor and take a look at your fellow classmates and professors. Maybe this is the last time you are going to see most of them. This might be a happy and comforting thought to many of you.
Since giving my 10th Std Board Exams and passing them, I’ve wondered when it’s all going to be over, finally! I thought it would be over at least after 12th. But how highly mistaken was I! Today when I think that it would be finally over once and for all, I know I’m wrong yet again. Because that’s what I’ve learnt in the past five years of my life- that its never really over. It’s not the destination but the journey that really matters. Bitter, but true.
Tomorrow we are all going to go in different directions. What direction each takes doesn’t matter. Whether you do banking, designing, VJing or something as bizarre as commercial fossil fuel distribution, it doesn’t matter what you are doing- but what or more rightly who you are. And its extremely important to immensely thank those who have made us what we are today as a person. Today I’m really privileged to stand in front of three individuals who have given us our identity. And I cannot thank you enough for all that you have done for us. I know we haven’t even reciprocated even a fraction of that towards you. But we all do promise to, in near future or at least try our best in doing so.
When I first came to this college five years ago, trust me I did not have a very good first impression. And this would be my honest confession when I say that I often joined other students in criticizing our college canteen, library, its office staff, etc. Then time just flew by, gradually taking away with it, my stupid thoughts and opinions. I never know when I started cheering for this college, chanting its name on top of my voice, defending it against all other colleges and feeling deeply sad when it lacked behind. Today I can undoubtedly say that I’m a proud “Sathayeiite”. Because this is what I’ve learnt- Just a thousand bricks do not make up a college. A building with just four walls does not make up a canteen and just couple of chairs does not make up a library. The real strength of our college lies in the honesty, integrity and wholeness of our professors. A building with just walls, benches and blackboards would be like trashcan where people come and throw their dirt, their fears, insecurities, worries and doubts. It is the teachers that make the very trashcan a temple- a place of worship, dignity and respect. It is them that make an ordinary child- a student.
So, today for me, this is not only an opportunity to speak in front of people for whom I’ve tremendous respect for (and I’m talking only of the teachers) but an occasion to be grateful towards them from the bottom of my heart. Right now, words fail me while converting my feelings into words and expressing my thoughts through this speech in acknowledging you three. But I would be echoing the voice of everyone present here when I think that a simple “Thank You’ is most appropriate. So, Thanks a million- not just for teaching us academics but making a difference in our lives. You will always remain Sanjeevani and Asuthi maam for us for the rest of our lives. (Partially because we never quite knew Sanjeevani maam’s last name and Asuthi maam’s first name)
And now, a piece of advice for my fellow classmates- (I know I’m the last person to distribute advices) but this is more of a thought than a advice- So, I’ll not direct it towards “You” and instead say “We”…We should always aim high in whatever we do in our lives- Our greatest fear is not that our aim is too high and that we can’t attain it, but that our aim was so low that we actually reached it. Because humanity is divided into three parts-.1) those who make things happen. . 2. Those who watch things happen. . 3. and those who don't know what's happening." Like most of you right now, who are clueless about what I’m blabbering. So whatever you do, always keep your head high- even if it doesn’t concern anything to academics- don’t just sit home idly or worse go to jail. Be honest with yourself. It would be a bit clichéd or even over exaggerated when I say that amongst us I see the first female President or the first Indian to win an Oscar.
And finally, maams we all are going to miss you tremendously. I hope you’ll miss us too. Usually professors miss students or remember students based on how intelligent and smart they were, or how they excelled in extra curricular activities and made the college proud…But in my case, I hope you’ll remember me whenever you’ll see an empty blackboard without a thought. Thank You all and Thank You again…
Language of Silence
“Too many women in too many countries speak the same language of silence”
It just took one simple line for Mrs. Hilary Clinton to break the sound barriers of centuries and convey a powerful message to humanity. (Courtesy of the thought- our very own Indian born Anusaya Sengupta) “In today’s world women hold up half the sky. In most countries its more than half”.
While ironically in half of the world, we hear women getting nominated for Presidential posts, women winning Academy Awards for the portrayal of yet another potent woman, women flying in space and women hosting the most prestigious Oscars, the remaining half still lingers in ignorance where male dominance and fear of rejection from the opposite sex is predominant. Isn’t it a coincidence that just before the occasion of Woman’s Day when we are supposed to celebrate “Her”, we hear reports of abuse, violence and exploitation? Our newspapers seem to be incomplete without reports on women (including our Bollywood beauties) getting threatened, raped or bashed up. India’s maternal mortality rates in rural areas are among the world’s highest.
In today’s world that is being haunted by the evil forces of gender discrimination, wife-battering and male supremacy, walking the tight rope and staying alive is a daunting challenge. And in such a turbulent situation where everyone seems to be in turmoil over the meaning of woman and her role in the society, it is of course a positive sign when bold attempts are made by the same tormented women to raise their voice against the apparent injustice.
It is about time that we, the women make sure that we are more than just a liability. At least this year let’s quit the fancy cocktail parties and give up acknowledging the fake woman. Let’s celebrate the real woman, the one who stands up among the rest along with her immense tolerance. Let us all applaud those who at least attempted at giving up the language of silence. Let us put our hands together for that maid of yours who did your household chores every single day irrespective of a black eye and battered face. Mind you, she is no different from the women next door whose bruises are hidden under her heavy make-up but are equally deep –rooted.
Nobody can deny that once you are conceived as an Indian female you are automatically entitled to these evils of inequity, unfairness, ill treatment and powerlessness. (And I’m clearly aware that I’m living in a 21st Century when I say this.) Of course, being whistled at in public places and other forms of being a subject to disrespect come as mandatory.
That this world is full of unfairness and bias. Let's accept that. And let's resist it against the depth and sanctity of womanand learn to live with it.
It just took one simple line for Mrs. Hilary Clinton to break the sound barriers of centuries and convey a powerful message to humanity. (Courtesy of the thought- our very own Indian born Anusaya Sengupta) “In today’s world women hold up half the sky. In most countries its more than half”.
While ironically in half of the world, we hear women getting nominated for Presidential posts, women winning Academy Awards for the portrayal of yet another potent woman, women flying in space and women hosting the most prestigious Oscars, the remaining half still lingers in ignorance where male dominance and fear of rejection from the opposite sex is predominant. Isn’t it a coincidence that just before the occasion of Woman’s Day when we are supposed to celebrate “Her”, we hear reports of abuse, violence and exploitation? Our newspapers seem to be incomplete without reports on women (including our Bollywood beauties) getting threatened, raped or bashed up. India’s maternal mortality rates in rural areas are among the world’s highest.
In today’s world that is being haunted by the evil forces of gender discrimination, wife-battering and male supremacy, walking the tight rope and staying alive is a daunting challenge. And in such a turbulent situation where everyone seems to be in turmoil over the meaning of woman and her role in the society, it is of course a positive sign when bold attempts are made by the same tormented women to raise their voice against the apparent injustice.
It is about time that we, the women make sure that we are more than just a liability. At least this year let’s quit the fancy cocktail parties and give up acknowledging the fake woman. Let’s celebrate the real woman, the one who stands up among the rest along with her immense tolerance. Let us all applaud those who at least attempted at giving up the language of silence. Let us put our hands together for that maid of yours who did your household chores every single day irrespective of a black eye and battered face. Mind you, she is no different from the women next door whose bruises are hidden under her heavy make-up but are equally deep –rooted.
Nobody can deny that once you are conceived as an Indian female you are automatically entitled to these evils of inequity, unfairness, ill treatment and powerlessness. (And I’m clearly aware that I’m living in a 21st Century when I say this.) Of course, being whistled at in public places and other forms of being a subject to disrespect come as mandatory.
That this world is full of unfairness and bias. Let's accept that. And let's resist it against the depth and sanctity of womanand learn to live with it.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
May 2007 spare us...
After 26th July 2006 it was so easy for the Govt officials and some BMC workers to blame it on the Mumbaikars. The whole reason for the ugly and unfortunate mishap was easily put forth as the disposal of plastic bags by the public, which ultimately caused our 'legendary' drainage system to fail. Then there was this dramatic declaration of the plastic ban which was extensively covered by the media. (No one actually took the note of the places where the vegetable vendors hid those bags under their stack of vegetables). There were discussions, debates, interviews of the BMC workers, etc. And then the most unthinkable happened...The State panel mooted for a ‘partial’ ban. I ask where was the ban in the first place and who followed it? (Of course we all did, for two whole weeks! ) Then again, all those hidden bags started coming out in the open, until no one actually remembered that such ban ever existed. Which single Govt worker looked into the matter in detail and kept a daily check on the vendors and shopkeepers? And how ridiculous was this ‘partial ban’ argument. (Ban on bags below 100 micron thickness to be precise) The ban talked about imprisoning those who violateed it. Let’s have a hearty laugh on that first! There are serial killers and multi law breakers running free in this very land. (And yes, not everyone is fortunate enough to get a warm welcome in the prisons with a special menu by the prison staffers). And you plan of putting those behind the bars who use plastic bags? I say, just stop fooling us. Even though half of our population is illiterate, they are not stupid. If you don’t want to take up the accountability of undertaking one simple ban, then don’t even care to declare it in the first place. For heavens sake, stop blaming everything on the public! And stop taxing your brains and wasting your mental energy on these useless and unnecessary discussions. Instead you can put those brilliant ideas somewhere else (Needless to say our country needs thousands of those). If you are not capable of taking up a responsibility till the end, then please don’t fool us by even pretending to take it. Yeh public hain, sab janti hain!
It’s the eve of monsoon again and it won’t be long before the rain-gods pour their blessings (read curses) on this dream city. Soon the heavy showers will hit our metropolis bringing along with it not only the sewage from the nullahs, the drainage from the open manholes into the open roads making it impossible and disgusting for the pedestrians to walk, but also the dreadful memories from last year that haunted each and every Mumbaikar. It’s that time of the year again. And we are very well aware that the situation won’t be much different if the same tragedy slaps us hard one more time. It’s easy for the Govt to blame it on the ‘aam janta’…
Did you see how the Govt took the lives of hundreds of people and made life miserable for the rest? But the citizens didn’t complain then. Instead they took a much mature and sensible step- Screw the Government, and instead start lending a helping hand to each other. But the time has gone. Last year the citizens mutely suffered and survived. They gave the Govt one whole year to show that it cared. But the Govt missed it. The same drama will take place this year too. (Though we have millions of fingers crossed and even more hands joined in front of The Almighty). But don’t worry. God only knows how to keep people of their kind alive without a guilty conscience eating them all the time.
That the rains took away lives is one thing. That it took away our faith and conviction is what we will have to live with.
May 2007 spare us.
It’s the eve of monsoon again and it won’t be long before the rain-gods pour their blessings (read curses) on this dream city. Soon the heavy showers will hit our metropolis bringing along with it not only the sewage from the nullahs, the drainage from the open manholes into the open roads making it impossible and disgusting for the pedestrians to walk, but also the dreadful memories from last year that haunted each and every Mumbaikar. It’s that time of the year again. And we are very well aware that the situation won’t be much different if the same tragedy slaps us hard one more time. It’s easy for the Govt to blame it on the ‘aam janta’…
Did you see how the Govt took the lives of hundreds of people and made life miserable for the rest? But the citizens didn’t complain then. Instead they took a much mature and sensible step- Screw the Government, and instead start lending a helping hand to each other. But the time has gone. Last year the citizens mutely suffered and survived. They gave the Govt one whole year to show that it cared. But the Govt missed it. The same drama will take place this year too. (Though we have millions of fingers crossed and even more hands joined in front of The Almighty). But don’t worry. God only knows how to keep people of their kind alive without a guilty conscience eating them all the time.
That the rains took away lives is one thing. That it took away our faith and conviction is what we will have to live with.
May 2007 spare us.
Saturday, May 12, 2007
A tribute to my favorite woman in the world...
Recently a boy not more than twelve, asked his mother for money to go and watch a movie. She declined. She thought it would be bad for him to watch it for the third time. She did not permit him to see it because she thought it would affect his academics, or it would waste his precious time, money or it would have a bad effect on his eyes. In short, she disallowed him for his own good. Because she cared. For his future. For his life. Not her own. But yet he thought she hated him-hated him so much that he decided on ending his life. He hung himself from a ceiling fan. And in a minute or two, he was gone forever.
All parents want to help their kids develop--to provide a firm foundation for a child’s emotional, social, and academic development. Parents often fain to understand the connection between their own parenting practices and the social, emotional, and intellectual aspects of child development.
Yes, parents do need to learn too. But giving up your life is not the lesson you need to teach them. Infact that's the harshest, most merciless and thoughtless punishment you could ever give them in return for their care, genuine concern and love.
The day the young boy took his life, his friends and relatives must be devastated. I cannot even begin to imagine what his mother must be going through at the moment.
So on the occasion of Mother's Day, let's stop taking our mother for granted. Moms need to feel important in this society. It is both arrogant and dangerous to tell mothers that the average daycare worker is more capable of raising her children than she is and that she is somehow damaging them if she sacrifices or postpones her career to be with them.
We know what kind of a role a mother occupies in a child’s mind. We don’t get it from a study. We get it from the look on her child's face when he/she tells her about her day at school. From the baby's cries in the night when he needs his mother’s milk, and from the dreams mothers have of their babies all taking on the world with the same vision and idealism that they once had.
No mother would be ever pleased seeing a human being which has grown inside her own body, hanging from a ceiling fan...Let's not give them such a view ever in our lives. They truely do not deserve it.
Oprah always says that motherhood is the toughest and at the same time the most blessed job in the world. And we know our mothers do it. And they do it well...
This is a song by Josh Groban that truely echos the moods and sentiments of every child this Mother's Day...
“You raise me up…
So I can climb on mountains.
You raise me up…
To walk on stormy seas.
I’m strong…
When I’m on your shoulders.
You raise me up…
To more than I can be.
All parents want to help their kids develop--to provide a firm foundation for a child’s emotional, social, and academic development. Parents often fain to understand the connection between their own parenting practices and the social, emotional, and intellectual aspects of child development.
Yes, parents do need to learn too. But giving up your life is not the lesson you need to teach them. Infact that's the harshest, most merciless and thoughtless punishment you could ever give them in return for their care, genuine concern and love.
The day the young boy took his life, his friends and relatives must be devastated. I cannot even begin to imagine what his mother must be going through at the moment.
So on the occasion of Mother's Day, let's stop taking our mother for granted. Moms need to feel important in this society. It is both arrogant and dangerous to tell mothers that the average daycare worker is more capable of raising her children than she is and that she is somehow damaging them if she sacrifices or postpones her career to be with them.
We know what kind of a role a mother occupies in a child’s mind. We don’t get it from a study. We get it from the look on her child's face when he/she tells her about her day at school. From the baby's cries in the night when he needs his mother’s milk, and from the dreams mothers have of their babies all taking on the world with the same vision and idealism that they once had.
No mother would be ever pleased seeing a human being which has grown inside her own body, hanging from a ceiling fan...Let's not give them such a view ever in our lives. They truely do not deserve it.
Oprah always says that motherhood is the toughest and at the same time the most blessed job in the world. And we know our mothers do it. And they do it well...
This is a song by Josh Groban that truely echos the moods and sentiments of every child this Mother's Day...
“You raise me up…
So I can climb on mountains.
You raise me up…
To walk on stormy seas.
I’m strong…
When I’m on your shoulders.
You raise me up…
To more than I can be.
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