Positioning The Position

    Approximately, 7 billion people in the world, 1.27 billion in India, out of which fifty percent is young blood. Where do I stand? or Do I make a difference? If similar set of words ever struck your head, then you're just on the right track. Infact, it is never too late. So to say 'market' is overloaded with genius brains who could possibly give anyone a run for their money. Not promoting so-called rat race, but it is imperative to have a market value. Value that is identifiable, tangible and of course valuable. Be it anything, entrepreneurship, corporate job, doctor or even being a home maker. You need to position yourself in a manner that distinguishes you or rather makes you highly conspicuous. This is the first step to sell yourself, to be noticed. However, always remember you're highly replaceable.
    To start with, take a piece of paper and list down what are your unique attributes or characteristics are. Majority of them would be those, that you feel are not quite unique to you. For instance, good communication skills, exemplary cricketing shots, great sense of clothing and so on. STOP and THINK. Are you a jack of all trades and a master of none? Some individuals are naturally endowed will certain skills and some acquire over a period of time. Excel at what you are good at and make that your USP. Something that is so extraordinary and notice worthy. Stop thinking out of the box, think like there is no box.
    If you have been ever taunted by your mom or your friends as 'useless' then kindly jettison it, into the uncharted depths of space. For god's sake, even a discarded muck comes into use. So, value yourself more to start with. From hereon, you begin to recycle yourself into more productive usage. Recycle and Resale, this is no rocket science. Contemplate till you discover a value proposition that you have and how useful will you be to others. Self-centrism at this stage is a sin. It is the greater good that matters.
    Whether you're from UP, Haryana or Kerala, it is irrelevant. Maybe, it can be extremely relevant. Certainly not promoting communism here. Narendra Modi, best exemplifies this, how intelligently he attributed 'chai waala' and 'Vibrant Gujrat'. It might be considered as a hyperbole but it is certainly working well at this point of time. Kashmiri 'Pashmina's' have well crafted a niche for themselves. So be proud of your roots and know how to use them for your advantage when required. Geography matters.
    Does a 'Babool' garner a higher price than, let's say 'Colgate'? No it doesn't. For obvious reasons, brand matters. Nobody would bother comparing the ingredients of both the products, even if one reaps greater benefits than the other. 'Price' yourself in a manner that it becomes a milestone for your contemporaries. This doesn't happen overnight.
    Realistically, no matter what  great salesmen skills you possess, your ultimate utility is equally imperative. The benefits that you provide to others, for instance, entertainment quotient of Shahrukh Khan, database management skills of a trainee or even delicious food cooked by mothers.  A soap can either make you fairer, give you a softer skin or germ protection. The ball is in your court. Some kind of research is imperative in what 'your' stakeholders are looking for from you. Provide that.
    A cup of tea is made up of water, tea, sugar and milk. Similarly, a 'Product' at question is a potpourri of enumerate ingredients. You're definitely made up of ingredients beyond what your Biology teacher mentioned. Articulate them and these could be your biggest selling points.
    It is well-known that one must compete with oneself and not others. With due respect, Bollywood actresses lie when they say that. Their competitors doing better is enough to give any ambitious girl a nightmare. So if you feel placing someone or something superior in a condescending manner, it is justified, then be it. Coke and Pepsi are perfect exemplifications of how each tries to cannibalize the others market share. But make sure you do it inconspicuously and smartly.
    Ultimately, we're all human beings and not god. Nobody is perfect. Do not confuse your buyer by selling perfectionism. Simplicity is they key here. Simplify your message and have a 'Single' Positioning for yourself, so that it becomes next to impossible to forget. Leave clarity and an indelible imprint in the minds of your buyers. Talk their language and walk along your path. You will be remembered forever. 

India's- Biggest Internal Threat

 Naxalism- A brief history :-

    Human societies progress through a class struggle, where the rich and elite own the majority of means of production. Hence, utilizing it for the upliftment of alike esoteric. This is called Capitalism or 'the dictatorship of bourgeoisie'. The weaker section is oppressed, living under the mercy of the privileged. The only possible solution would be Socialism and a mass revolution to overthrow mulcting diktats. The above mentioned theory of Karl Marx had shaped itself into reality in 1967, which colored almost forty percent of India RED. 'Historic Eight Documents' states the ideological principles on which the Naxalite movement was run authored by Charu Majumdar, the founder.

    A revolution called Naxalism (deriving its name from Naxalbari village, WB) was born out of intolerance. Resulting in a protest by landless farmers in tribal areas, who's only means of worship and livelihood, their land was forcefully snatched by the government and crass landlords. Also popularly known as Maoism, formally known as Mao Zedong thought. His military strategies and political theories are adopted by Maoists. 

Naxalism- As an Internal Threat :- 

    Albeit, started as liberatory mass movement, it took a macabre path. They began fighting against the system and bureaucracy, who they cite as corrupt. On a local level, they began kidnapping, killings and extortion's. Having in the recent times killed many officials, causing civilian casualties as well. Along with making front page news in disruptions of on going polls. Prime Minister referring to them as 'The biggest internal threat in India'. 

Why this movement failed? :- 

• They do not have any single leader. Hence, multiple subordination.
• Theirs is a scattered and an abstract movement.
• Maoists do not have a mass face representative.
• Absolutely, no Modus Operandi.
• Failure to mobilize the movement into tangible effects.
• Direction less stance with no solution based approach.
• Equated as terrorists.

Why Salwa Judum Failed? :- 

   
 Salwa Judum was an initiative that the Indian government took in 2005 to counter this movement. This was done by empowering the youth in the affecting areas. This was done by arming and training them to fight the Naxals. These tribals ecstatically accepted the offer, due to abject poverty condition. This militia showed a ray of hope but was subsequently abolished by the Human Rights Commission of India for killing the national citizens by the state. 

Possible Solutions to Naxalism:-

     Although, the nation wide injuries and deaths have gone down by fifty percent and it has minimized to nine states (earlier twenty). In order to abolish it completely, the government needs to take a firm stance. The top Naxal Commanders who are known to have been operating from their hideouts in China need to be identified. Border scrutiny needs to be enhanced since they are armed and constantly updated with new operandis of guerrilla warfare. The weaponry used by these militants is technologically upgraded and up-to date. The local police of the Naxal hit areas needs to be extensively trained to reduce dependency on CRPF and paramilitary troops. Better infrastructure needs to be built up, to have a better accessibility to these affected areas. Any conflict requires constant communication, hence networks need to be established to constantly assure the Maoists. They need to be threat-ridden and provided a value proposition of developmental work. Since, a majority of them undertake such acts as a means of livelihood due to lack of alternative employment opportunities. Naxalism effected states should be given a priority in funds allocation to carry out developmental work at a greater pace and gradually abolish this movement. 

    

Truth Never Lies in The Dark

Tucked in on a sleepless night,
thinking about the human plight.
How most of us might,
be mastering the art of lying in sight.

Contemplating about the past,
even memories setting aghast.
Times wavering by fast,
Like a magical spell was cast. 

Recalling what was told by mother,
a lie follows a million other.
Iconoclastic generation oblivious of the withers,
without an iota of expressive dither.

Impetuously the truth comes out,
Sparing absolutely no doubt.
Even the best falling about,
Facing the unexpected clout.

The ghastly shadow fades away,
making way for the truth to sway.
All the greed made into hay,
Escapism has lost its way.

Despite of tracing no mark,
the truth never lies in the dark.
The dog days may soon not bark,
But, someone up there continues to hark. 

'Right' Angled Triangular Series

 
    Lok Sabha Elections happen to occur every five years. Change is a constant and the way elections are being fought is constantly evolving. 2014, so far has been a tale with a twist. This year can be earmarked as a nationalistic revolution and change in course. The youth dominated country has compelled Political genius's to redraft their conventional strategies, of appeasing the cognizant voters. 125 crore eyes are glued on what these strenuous elections will bring along. Whatever be the result, the journey is all set to formulate a historic chapter. 

    These elections so far, look like a 'Right' angled triangular series, mentioning the three is palpable. While AAP garnering a strong base, BJP's perpendicular resurging and veteran Congress's hypotenuse seems to be on a decline. Almost fifty decades old, BJP is emerging as a 'Party with a Difference' and a back-seat driver. The steering wheel has clearly been shifted in the hands of 'Modi', who is the sole front runner for BJP's campaigning strategy. Modi, Modi, Har Ghar Modi is their marketing mantra under the umbrella tagline of 'Ab ki baar Modi Sarkaar'. Congress's 'Aam Admi' have been adroitly cannibalized by the new kid in the town. Hence, leaving Congress with no choice but to count voting hands by empowering the potentials alongside promising development. Team work is a back-stage story which is not appealing the voters, who are looking forward for Congress's protagonist. Novice 'AAP' still seems to be cascading along with the corruption wave flowing all over the country. Change being the main agenda, AAP too needs to change before the wave sets off to the sea.

    'Hashtag' 'ModiMantra' i.e. the 5 T's of Narendra Modi talent, tradition, tourism, trade and technology could soon find a place in Marketing lessons. Brevity is the soul of all communication. Therefore, succinctly mentioning what he stands for. Development and good governance  are the new rants of the transformed BJP, successfully repositioning itself. The anti-incumbency against Congress seems to be diluting what it stands for, due to its lost credibility. Youth and the traditional Congress vote bank forming its key focus areas. It is busy countering the Modi wave against one man-ship rather than substantiating what it stands for. Empowering the youth, women and all that fluff coming across as ambiguous. Public's fail to articulate its message. AAP keeping its strategy singular since day one as it seems to be working well for them so far. Theirs is a movement circumscribed to the aam admi, for the aam admi and by the aam admi. However, it'll be interesting to watch how well the national audiences embrace what they stand for.

    BJP (from hereon referred to as Modi), has managed to instigate a curiosity among spectators to see the virtual Modi wave in real action. Die-hard cult, nevertheless looking as a powerful number as per media suggestions. Congress's value proposition to voters nullifies its stance under the black shadow of scams and enumerate controversies. Gandhi scion, although a youth icon already but not yet a national representative. AAP's 'lal-batti' claims set it apart in the crowd. 

    AAP's on-ground activation model, door to door campaigning and volunteer engagement model sets a benchmark for what an ideal campaigning should look like. Money or no money, Kejriwal's wittiness never fails to keep AAP in public domain making front-page burning. 3 dimensional Modi, has learnt and quickly adapted. His ubiquity has left an indelible imprint of what he advocates. Leaving no stone unturned, his confident persona and oratory skills is successfully influencing. While Rahul, having mastered the art of one to one campaigning is also leveraging on constant anti-Modi remarks. His face too has been conspicuous, although the background surrounding people of every community is not working too well. 

    Experts predicting the role of  social media on around 160 constituencies. Facebook, Twitter and YouTube being the top key players. The stats are doing the talking, while complete astonishment of the youth icons non-presence, where his target group lies. 

Facebook likes:-

BJP- 4.1m +

AAP -2m +

INC - 3.1m + 

Narendra Modi - 13m +

Arvind Kejriwal- 5.2m +

Twitter followers:-

BJP- 460 K +

AAP - 648 K +

INC - 172 K +

Narendra Modi - 3.82m +

Arvind Kejriwal - 1.69m +

     Holistically Modi leading the social media chart with engaging and frequent content. BJP on all social forums is promoting its Prime Ministerial candidate. Their constant attacks on opposition alongside promoting its work and rallies pictorially and using videos is appealing the users. Modi too is capitalizing on 'Modi for PM Fund' emulating AAP. AAP too is not far behind, its USP being user friendly pages, complete information about candidates, inviting nominations online, blogs and so on. The only party having the most convenient donation portal and transparency about funds. Congress is focusing on constantly updating their achievements and informing about rallies, Rahul Gandhi being the limelight. The parties are also efficiently using YouTube while its tremendous potential and agility still being effectively unexplored. 

    Animadvert AAP, Belligerent BJP, Coy Congress is the new 'ABC'of current politics. Modi aspiring for a 272+ while being surreptitious about his alliance disclosures, has exemplified extraordinary marketing techniques. If Modi losses, it'll be something else and not his marketing for sure. Arvind led AAP appears to be the future of the nation as of now. Completely banking on its efforts to translate into quantity. Congress is all set to sit in the opposition, with a huge task to reorganize its abstract pieces. But the entire gimmick can turn upside down, when the results unfold. The equations may change and new formulas might need to be applied.

    Whatever the result may be, these elections have been fought both offline and online for 16 crore(approximately) internet users and almost ten percent first time voters. Innovation and Dynamism being the latest approaches, it is all about personalities and issues. The stage is set for the PM in waiting to prove what has been propagandized aggressively. Nevertheless, some great marketing lessons to be learnt from. 

What if you won a beauty pageant?

    Lift's and tucks, skinny jeans, Angelina Jolie, fair and lovely, size zero, low calorie diet leads to perfection and so on. Switch on the television, flip through a magazine or watch a movie, You will see Beauty! She smiles down from the cover page, impeccable and defining perfectionism. Men often fall at her feet and she manages to climb up the echelon faster than imagination. The world stops and stares for a moment, when she walks flaunting that award, walking along the conspicuous red carpet. Beauty is no longer in the eyes on the beholder!
    Beauty is ideally the attitude of a woman. Attitude here means the outlook towards life, indeed all about living. It is about being original and simple. Simple is each to its own. Something you like, which makes you ecstatic and live well is certainly beautiful.
    As a philosophy, it is in the perception of the person who is seeing. It can be an impression which is absolutely physical provided you are unacquainted with the person. Albeit, when you do, other qualities have an equal weightage, if not more. Therefore, not undermining the internal aspect.
    You are what you eat and what you think. State of mind, inner well being and clear conscience does reflect on a vividly expressive face. But mostly, this could be begged to be differed upon, especially by those who are in the business. Why not layer your face, if it enhances? A food for thought.
    Everyone wants to be tall, thin and beautiful. In today's time being a complete package is imperative. To be noticed, you have to make a statement. I repeat, you have to make a statement, which is subjective. Determining your subject is absolutely an individualist prerogative. So take out some time and define what defines you and go ahead and layer on, striving for perfection. Basically excel at whatever you are good at. Everybody cannot be a captain, the world requires sailors too.
    Smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks and win hearts. Believe in the way you were created and have the strength to reshape your destiny. Walk like no one's watching, talk like the world is listening and stalk your dreams. First and foremost, look in the mirror and feel like you just won a beauty pageant. From this point, life restarts.

4P's of Rahul Gandhi

    The word 'Gandhi' has been a powerful symbolism of Indian political history. Almost, half a century later the Gandhian dynasty scion- Rahul Gandhi is preparing to step into his ancestors gigantic shoes. The political scenario nation-wide is upbeat, which makes every blink of Gandhi descendant conspicuous and interogable. As a probable Congress Party candidate for PMO, is he managing the colossal responsibility entrusted upon him in the right fashion?

    A few connotations that naturally strike about him would be 'GANDHI', 'Indira's grandson', 'Rajiv's son', 'Mama's boy' and so on. Most recently, he is seen projecting himself as a youth leader who stands for development. A messiah of nation's grass root population and a staunch proponent of forty-nine percent of populations empowerment. Ardent believer of India replicating China's manufacturing model. A firm believer in every possible hand of the nation, who in a whim of his mind would cast their vote for the INC. A complete over doze of what he stands for, the intent is nebulous. Moreover, there is a clear dichotomy between his words and actions. The product 'Rahul' is still in the making. 

    Projecting himself as a youth icon, he is missing out to be a national leader. Besides his 'Youth Congress' initiative, there isn't much of an experience in his baggage. Along with a list of scams to cover up for, is a sordid tale. Shirking responsibility for the past, only makes is all the more difficult to entrust someone who roots out of the same origin. His audiences are unclear about what they will be voting for? Most importantly, what will he do for the nation? The price to vote for him seems to be far greater than choosing possible alternatives. 

    Three-sixty degree is the way forward. Is Rahul for PM? No one knows or rather cannot officially claim. A mere poster boy image doesn't seem to work in today's scenario where personalities weigh greater than parties and manifesto's. With such a psyche, an upfront image and back stage branding are the key determinants. By manifesting a message that sounds rote and inconsistent will not the fit the job. His leadership style and individual synchronized(with the party) opinion is absurd. The 'eighty-minute' interview face-off gimmick turned out to be a complete boomerang, further escalating an amateur image. From tearing off the ordinance to lack of control over lower echelons, depicts complete incongruity with the party. Recent, personal remarks by him over Mr Modi's marital status gathering criticisms, all obfuscate his overall strategy. Being a late entrant, he couldn't capitalize on the potential 'netizens' relying heavily on INC's national pages. Digitally he is piggy banking on Congress's base. Naturally being sophisticated and elite, he has failed to intrigue his audiences with his persona. With everything back firing, brand Rahul needs reinvention, re-positioning and repackaging 

    For him public visibility came much later, tremendously loosing out on the first mover advantage. Albeit, mastering one-to-one interaction, it hasn't manifested well on a large scale. Hence, his nation-wide presence is yet not felt. Capitalization of the well-set Lok Sabha platform wasn't channelized the best reflecting ineffective placement. Whether he is available where the public's want him to be is unknown.

    The nation wide wave seems to be anti-dynasty politics which certainly does not work in his favor. Would Rahul be a politician if not a 'Gandhi'? Is a well-established mindset. This is the biggest challenge that this struggling 'shehzada' will have to face. He will have to prove his credentials to be able to garner votes besides mere publicity. Media is meant to scrutinize and this is his biggest impasse. A responsible, mature and clear-minded substantiated with credible experience could turn the table for him. He is yet too raw and needs to be cooked solid for the nation to be able to digest. 

    

Is Advertising the real villain?

    Advertisers can be regarded as scavengers, looking forward to trap their prey in a vicious circle of consumerism. It's next to impossible to turn a blind eye and deaf ear to this alternative form of nature around us. Our subconscious mind, subtly registers these images that our eye balls capture during the normal course. Larger than life advertising has cannibalized our the scenic beauty. We exist in a corporate zone whether in or out of our home. Yet, some 'perpetrators' of this crime are highly incentivized by large audiences.
    Food, clothing and shelter are a defunct concept. Pizza, Pantaloons and Penthouses are millennial. Humans are not born with these needs. Needs are created by the environment that we exist it and eventually making them accustomed to it.  After a series of luring attempts, the buyer becomes a habitual consumer and a brand loyalist.The conventional concept has been redefined beyond the traditional dimensions. A fairness cream and an electric razor would probably not exist in the 'to buy' list if it wasn't for a 'need' that was generated in the potential user. This is an age of innovation where novice and products with far greater utility are constantly being created. Probably, this moment while you're reading this, somewhere in the world a new idea was generated, in someones head which will take form over a period of time.Globalized markets lead to greater availability and requirements which are nurtured through constant reinforcements via ads.    
     A bicyclist wants a scooter, a scooter rider wants a car, a car driver wants a plane to fly in. We are never satisfied and are always looking to climb up the ladder. Greater aspirations are linked to superiority which can only be proclaimed through a lifestyle shift. Even an epicurean is not the ultimate. As mentioned right in the beginning, this is a vicious trap. What is it that drives to buy products which are more desirable and at the same time try different genre of products? It is what is told, and what is followed. In every society there are people who make trends and those who follow it or so to say, adapt. It is not the survival of the fittest or the fastest but the one, who is most adaptable to change.
     Gone are those days when ad's merely occupied print, radio, television and outdoor  spaces. This is the era of creativity and daring to be different. The potential monetary sources are increasingly vulnerable and exposed to subliminal advertising. This is a strong impetus to foster action. Marketers have occupied every possible medium, for instance, the digital space, to pass on the message to millions of users. Usage of sounds, repetitions, attractive images, videos, viable content etc. is the new 'how' which is constantly evolving. Marketers all around the worst are in a constant thrust to find 'new' ways which are not quiet in the face!
    Advertisers at the same time, are becoming more sensitive towards consumers. Monologue is replaced by dialogue. Communicating the potential benefits is replaced by providing value proposition.  Focus is shifted from mere selling to branding for generating loyalists. They are no longer unscrupulous monsters, who are unconcerned with the experiences that they promised to deliver. Brands are repositioning themselves to fit the trends. Ad's are calibrated in manner to meet the purpose.
    Ever thought of a life without these ad's? Life would have been much simpler and less complicated in terms of choices. People would have purchased the popular product and been content about their existential state. There wouldn't be any enmity or grieve. Serenity of nature would have been untouched. It would probably, be a Utopian state of existence.
     Albeit, market penetration is greater in some markets than the others. The reason being the culture. Advertisers do not only influence but are themselves influenced. They need to change course on the basis of market conditions. A consumer in Punjab would be more likely to be bent overall than a consumer in Kerala in terms of extravagant spending. At the same time arms need to flexed on the basis of how potent would acceptability of a product will be in a certain region. Ad's don't always work if mindlessly thrown out.
     Living in a resurgent India, we are evolving towards enhanced consumerism. India also being one of the biggest youth centrist market. Advertising industry cannot be neglected in terms on the impact that it generates. The real villain lies within us that refuses to be plebeian. Ad's just play along the deep rooted sentiments of the society which require a way to vent out.
 

The Pink Collar Crime

    The putting to effect of Section 377 of The Indian Penal Code suggests, criminalizing the acts against the order of nature. 'Nature' is a subjective. If an individual is born a certain way, it is absolutely a natural phenomenon and should not be subject to discrimination. Re-criminalizing, the ruling passed by High Court, demonstrates that we still accept selective liberalism. 

    A basis for a rational opinion should be based upon both sides of the argument. The reasoning per se The Supreme Court of India justifies the reinforcement of the law dating back to 1861 during the British Ruling in India. According to the apex court this could be a milestone measure of making the nation HIV/AIDS free. Many in favor of this ruling state this against the 'Hindu' culture and  the moral principle of raising a family. 

    The basis of criticism of this verdict is impairing one's freedom, dignity and fundamental rights. It inhibits one's individuality which now requires a veil to prevent criminal proceedings, if proven guilty. Along with, enhancing chances of the minority section being unscrupulously exploited. 

    Irrespective of both sides of the story the question lies in the fact whether the apex court ruling is able to meet is foreordained objective. Underground, unorganized, unexpected are a few negative connotations that unfortunately exist undercover. Will harsh policing and jailing really solve the issue? Unless, it's just to appease the propagators of culture and Hinduism.

    A welcoming ruling by The Supreme Court recognizing the 'third' gender for their upliftment comes out as a ray of hope for enumerate people who are living in the shadow of disgrace. 'They' should be accepted and incorporated in our environment. For who knows it could be your family member some day? It is time, to accept the creation of god which historicizes itself since thousands of years.

    

   

    

An Election Tale!

The cascading Modi wave, gathering nations rage,

and just how perfectly he manages to be so suave. 

The broom promises to sweep and

changes its course with a leap.

The Gandhi scions shine, making every prose

of the campaign rhyme. 

Channels, papers and bus stands, 

all chanting the same rants. 

Not a sight to spare, 

with an inability to bear.

It's time to vote, it's time for notes,

in the heads they rote.

Speeches, breaches all aboard,

with spur of shows on the road.

While they continue to harangue,

the opposition continues to bewilderingly slam. 

It's time for Modi, threatened by AAP,

Congress's mind is boggling sharp. 

Money's flowing like its a joke,

Victory being the only hope. 

What about the voters? 

Who do we vote? 

We want change, not false claims,

When we don't even know candidates names.

New PM is bound to come,

to give our country a run.

Let's be more aware of what they've done,

so that we shine brighter than the sun. 

Every Fathers 'Queen'

     A girl who is born, but was never the first choice. As a sister, made to compromise for her brothers wants. Mocked at by lame men who live in a chimerical world of self-proclamation. A victim of societies vitriolic remarks upon her character at every peccadillo. Required to marry because considered incapable in the Indian society. Often abandoned and neglected by her own children. Not allowed to wear jewels or make-up even on her death bed after her husband's death. Not trying to victimize women, just highlighting the inner strength that this gender holds to overcome every impasse with a benign smile.

    By default women are considered the weaker strata of the society but as per selective discretion. When they are molested, they are meant to be stronger. When they are abused, they are meant to be stronger. When they are sidelined, they are meant to be stronger. However, when in a relationship, in a work environment or even at home, they are willingly sidelined. There is a clear dichotomy between words and actions. 

    How many of us are aware of any single woman Indian player? Besides, Sania Mirza and Sania Nehwal, who had been glamorized by the media. Most of us will beg to agree that it is irrelevant even from general knowledge perspective. Indira Gandhi was the only 'man' who led India but she too had to succumb to the men's  crass disposition. Can we have a powerful woman leading the nation ever again? This seems most unlikely in the current scenario where even a mention on Women's Reservation Bill leads to never ending recriminations. Not denying the fact that today women have excelled and risen in every field but all that glitters in not always gold. A food for thought.

    Female infanticide, dowry, rape, murder, molestation, violence, domination are a few issues that women all over India are subject to. They are meant to double up at work and home, yet are the lowest paid. Psychological development of child occurs at a very nascent age. Naturally, a defeatist attitude is inculcated in a girl child. She is told that she is incapable and marriage is her eventual destiny. This creates an inferiority complex and inability to overcome inhibitions. Hats off, to those who manage to cast a niche for themselves. Albeit, this quantity is remarkably low. 

    Without dwelling much on negatives, it is time to move out of it. The power to bring a new life is vested in a woman which in itself signifies boldness and vigor. We do not need life changing policies and procedures for our upliftment. The need of the hour is assuming self-dependence. Inculcating a purpose of your life, which needs to surpass the conventional family lifestyle. Not, undermining the importance of raising a lovely family but at the same time being a little 'selfish'. Selfish to respect your body and your existence in this world, which is for a greater cause than ego appeasing of others. Every girl need to step out of her comfort zone and take over the world with her capabilities, which are no less than that of a man. 

    'I can be as high maintenance as I want because no one pays my bills except me', will be the Utopian state. You were brought into this world by your parents and are rightfully their queen for the rest of life. Do not wait for someone to get you flowers, plant your own garden and decorate your own soul. Women empowerment is a defunct concept and should be replaced by self-empowerment. The world will truly be a better place. 

 

    

India with a Bollywood 'Tadka'

 'Water is thicker than blood', is the new saying that dominates Indian cinema. Gone are those days when family movies like 'K3G' and 'Kal ho na ho' stole the show. India is dominated by the youth who are agile, restless and believe in the power of 'Oh yes abhi'. Movies like 'Zindagi na milegi dobara' unfolds how friendship has evolved into lifelong relationship's and how different people with different personalities form the greatest bonds. Children today have the power to approach their parents and chase their in dreams, thanks to '3 idiots' that emphasizes upon the power of real education over mere literacy. Passion for the nation, intolerance to injustice and avenging the perpetrators by Amir's 'Rang de basanti' brings life to our freedom fighters and evokes a feeling of dying for the nation. Hindustan is indeed the new 'Youngistan'.
    Cultures, castes, creed, religion are the common terminologies of the basis of patronizing and at times condescending. However, sports attributes to none of these. If it wasn't for Indian cricket, we wonder if there exists any parallel platform to bring the nation together chanting same chores?Well, not really. Once an English game, Cricket is our 'Lagaan' now.  'Bhaag Milkha Bhaag' also subtly reminds us of non-existence of other super stars like those in the past. 'Chak De' led to more goose bumps and audiences than what our national game ever managed. King Khan's '70 minutes speech' motivates much more than parents '70 hour' speeches. Absolute credits to the Indian cinematic experiences, for bringing the masses closer to the game.
    2014 is an important year for India as the nation is entering into Lok Sabha polls. Indian 'Rajneeti' is multifold and multidimensional with the new controversies and 'Satyagrahas' creating reportage. It was a poor timing for defending the Rajiv Gandhi assassination convicts and argumentation over capital punishments after the nation saw a glimpse of the history via 'Madras Cafe'. Silver screening of political events has the power to make most strategic tools conspicuous and ineffective.
    It is widely popularized by our preceding generation that this millennial generational, love and marriages are different and bizarre. Contradicting their perspective, movies like 'Jab we met' and 'DDLJ' manage to take youth in a dreamy land of their imagination about the ideal partner and reinforces lost belief in love. Love has no language and we still trust love has no boundaries like that of 'Veer Zaara'. Albeit, 'love ke side effects' and 'break ke baad' is also the buzz off the town.
    Every coin has two sides to it, one that favors and the another creates a clamor. Reservation or 'Aarakshan' being one. Is it really going to benefit the nation or prove to be fatal and deter growth of the deserving? It's clearly debatable. 'English Vinglish' has replaced our mother tongue and mind it, you're are viewed in a disparaging sense if you don't know the foreign language. The advent of 'Hindutva' alienates our brothers from another mother. Is being a 'Khan' symbolism of terrorism? Most definitely not. Muslims do not deserve to bear the brunt of Hindu extremists. There is a thin line between faith and blind faith. Yet oblivious masses do not forget to avoid 'Meat' on Tuesday's irrespective of a whole pile of bad deeds associated to the day. Apparently, praying to god is like a licence to commune a million mistakes. All we can say is Oh my God! to the conventionally modern beliefs.
    What is often neglected is our actual 'Swades' which resides in the rural India. They often migrate to the 'metropolitan' environment or 'fly' to their dream lands. This large scale exodus leaves a human capital deficiency in the second largest population of the world the reason being ineffective leadership and lack of development in these neglected lands.
    A Bollywood picture speaks the nation's words and in the truest sense derives its inspiration from what the current scenario looks like. Even fiction is transformed into realities by minds which are ready to create a 'Dhoom'. Silver screen might have a short life-span but leaves an indelible prints on the minds of the audiences with the power of story telling. We learn from what we see and we create from what we see, which can be substantiated with the evolution of bollywood. The popcorn's continue to heat up,stir mindsets and the way of life.
 

An Uncanny Common Man

    A man who believes in the dictum that 'Change begins with small things' and has the conviction to practice what he preaches. A thought that he strongly believed in became a nation wide movement to sweep off corruption with his broom. Miracles do not happen in real life and Arvind Kejriwal rightfully is the epitome of sheer hard work, dedication and self-belief. His plane is on a take-off mode and is all set to meet great altitudes of goodness and success.
    Prestigious Ramon Magsaysay award is credited to him for his emerging leadership and commendable contribution in enactment of the RTI Act. In his early career,an IIT Kharagpur alumnus, Kejriwal was placed in TATA steel. But the man, had a greater vision to serve the nation. Later he joined Indian Revenue Services after clearing his civil services examination in first attempt. His constant encounters with corrupt individuals led him to form his own NGO called Parivartan, synonymous to his dictum. His NGO was focused on assisting citizens in navigating income tax, electricity and food ration matters. Thereafter, his movement became larger than life along with Mr Hazare called the Jan Lokpal Bill Revolution. To clean a room, one needs to enter in first, hence, the Aam Admi Party was formed.
    Redefinition of an ideal politician is grounded, humble and down to earth, thanks to this man.  Innovation is incomplete without implementation. Branding his party as a people's close aid and himself as a benevolent leader is irreproachable. Truth always triumphs and he has vociferously taken on the 'unreachable' big shots which adds credibility to his claims.
   Known to be a socialist and daring, he is capable of shaking well dug in chairs. 'Mr Cool' doesn't falter or loose his mind which indicates the maturity this 7th Chief Minister of Delhi possesses. Often classified as a 'dramatic' orator, he can bring life and emotions to his words, which is his strongest connect with the 'janta'. Certainly, his aura speaks for itself and does not require him to pontificate. Within a short span of time, he has emanated as a real threat to veteran political stars.
    It's easier said than done. No individual without a strong will and intent, I repeat, intent can muster every ounce of inner strength to be able to bear the brunt of brutal Delhi's cold. Why should the first man of the National capital settle for any mediocrity in lifestyle? Certainly, because if it wasn't for these so-called  'shenanigans' , it wouldn't make an iota of difference to the threats of democracy. Maybe, it wasn't the best foot forward but the intentions are the real deal.
    This AK-49 can prove to be a guardian of nation's integrity and righteousness. Albeit, his resignation has changed the mood among many supporters who feel led down, but he is up to the greater good. His led party was in the hanging as they did meet the majority and functioning under grace of INC was merely suffocating. However, to the contrary the city that entrusted him was seeking his experience to come handy and to prove his motives. Nevertheless, everyone deserves a second chance.
    Being ambitious and not settling for something that is not the best defines him in the truest sense. His altruistic ideology reinforces empowerment of the 'aam admi' that he still proudly recognizes himself as. India needs a leader who is for the people, to the people and by the people. This self-made uncanny common man is set out for the sky and surely deserves a chance to lead India into a 'Corruption-Free' nation. 

Mr Mulayam - You forgot the bigger picture!

    History will substantiate, the status of women in our society and in our minds. Be it goddess Sita or symbol of purity Draupati. This weaker class is often a victim of injustice, greed, arrogance and pride of their male counterparts. Do these men have the right to oppress, harass, demean and disrespect the remaining half of the feeble population? NO, THEY NOT. I can advocate this with an absolute no tolerance pitch, alike my other female counterparts.

    Mr Mulayam Singh Yadav, the so-called Prime Ministers office aspirant tried to propagate the thought of 'Rapes being a commuters 'younghood' mistake and unworthy of being off the gallows'  to facile audiences via his absolutely erotic and demagoguing speech. This exemplifies the leadership in our country and their take on such heinous perpetrators. The very fact that this man had the courage to say out loud these irreparable words would remorse our constitution former's who possibly couldn't have foreseen this shameful adoption of 'Freedom of Speech'. An apology might tone down the issue but is will not reflect the slightest compunction that you have for what was propounded so confidently.

    Enumerate rape stories like those of the ' moribund Nirbhaya' raise many debates of the root cause. Lack of education being one and poor moral upbringing being the other evident causes. But focusing on the past takes away the focus on the future. Not being a male chauvinist, but these rowdy men that we come across every now and then do not have the basic etiquette to speak to a lady which signifies the deeper understanding of women being inferior 'creatures'. This is lack of manliness. This is what leads to fiendish acts. Hence, it is absolutely justified to severely punish such diabolical and grotesque attack on another soul, Mr Politician! 

    Time and again, the entire nation wakes up and smells the coffee to this issue. But the smell fades faster than the speed of reportage. For this malice to end, justice needs to take over. Justice that will deter, justice that will haunt, justice that will justify. If our politicians feel that death is unjustified, then so be it. Yet again, deriving relevance from past times, that when this pot of selfishness will explode, the consequences will create another history.

    Such men (including those who motivate such crimes) deserve no impunity. I strongly appeal to everyone to destroy the roots that they feed upon. Let us for a change, take charge of other lives. Righteousness lies in thinking about the greater good and keeping aside worriment. It's time to change mindsets. Let's start by pushing for a women reservation bill and focus on the bigger picture of a rape-free India.