TAFAKKUR

FAIZ UL MAWAID BURHANIYAH - 3rd POST

2011-09-11T23:47:00.000-07:00

STORY - LUCKY ME (concluded)

Those who have been following the story closely may be feeling exited to know what happens after the Sunday sumptuous dinner. As for my self to be honest, although my wife Rabab had made excellent Kebab Joojeh and other items on the Thal, I could not enjoy as much as my son Murtaza and Noorudin, who were relishing every dish.

As a fond father, looking at them enjoying so much, I was feeling a little sad to broach the ‘thali’ subject, but was determined all the same, knowing my wife Rabab supported me whole heartedly.

It was crunch time – dinner was over, there was palpable tension building up inside me and suddenly there was POWER CUT.

It was in reality a blessing in disguise. It had rained steadily in the evening, so the weather was cool. I had replayed the scene many times in my mind earlier in the afternoon. My taking up the subject for discussion, finding Murtaza telling me – ‘ sorry Abba – we can discuss it later I have a project to complete ‘ the younger Noorudin as if on cue standing up and walking off to his room to watch TV. Multiple scenes played out in mind.

Those who are parents of growing up children can well empathize with my condition.

The POWER CUT proved to be a blessing – good food - cool breeze – family bonhomie on Sunday evening, motivated me to take up the ‘thali’ subject. I will not bother you up with all the details, some of which I have already written about – I found my sons in rapt attention – was a miracle working out.

Not a word.

Rabab encouraged by the silence response told us how she would love to share the same food with the family of Amina. Now Amina was her childhood friend, both went to school together in Lunavada, and from my wife I had heard many childhood stories of my wife always being in awe of her dear friend, who was smart, intelligent, helpful – once my wife started, she would go and on ……

However, two years back Aquilbhai who was a very successful businessman was struck with a paralytic stroke while at office, as a result of which his entire body was immobilized. In short the world of Amina and her son Hakim who was of same as my Noorudin and both were school buddies, went into a tailspin.

As Aquilbhai was running his supply business single handedly, as expected business suffered, creditors started knocking at their door, debtors started playing truant, medical Bills started piling. Aquilbhai died thereafter living behind a family who much against their wishes, started to become depended on ‘muvasaat’

Now dear Readers – the above circumstances are a fact, only other things are fictitious to protect the identity of the family. In my long years of ‘reaching out’ I have come face to face with so many such families.

Here I would I like to recall the resilience (khuddari) of one mumin bhai. I came to know of his plight after his wife was diagnosed with Cancer, and piling medical Bills and running about for treatment, completely drained out his financial capacity. He removed his son, who was very intelligent and smart from a good school were the fees were high.

I came to know about it and approached him to see if I could mobilize some funds for the schooling. In his own words – ‘ Asgarbhai shukran , but let me bear my own cross’ Tears swelled in my eyes, and I felt so humbled that there are such mumineen in this world. On that day frankly I felt proud to be born a mumin.

Was Aqa Moula (TUS) referring to such mumineen in his Munajaat Sahrifa 1432H – did he mean those who have been victims of circumstances -
ke jehni kadar k’um chhe – ehne baland karoo.

I put forward this question to my sons, and I put forward it you my dear readers ?

Please do reflect, and you will surely find spiritual bliss, and understand the importance of this food sharing.

Our family can easily have Canneloni Milanaise Style ( an ideal party dish – Tarla Dalal) but no we will decide to have the same ‘thali’ food, for we know that there is some ‘hiqmat’ in the initiative started by Molayi A’li Qdr Muffadal Saifuddin saheb (TUS)

LUCKY ME - the lights had not come on, and my sons with rapt attention were listening. As a family we agreed that yes we will take the ‘thali’ and surprise of surprise, my son had more updated information than me.

He said he is following the development with interest and being an MBA student, he is seriously considering doing a project on it. He had worked out the costs based on per person consumption of 125 gms rice (Gobindo bhog is cheaper and more nutritious than costly Basmati – we are not doing a ‘shaadi khana’ was his argument) 3 rotis – 25 gms mutton /khima – dal 50 gms and sabji 100 gms )

He said to bring down the costs , mumina ladies from affluent families who have Ayahs and other support staff at home to care, can volunteer their services one day a week. Six groups for six days a week can be formed and their husbands can be entrusted with daily bazaar.

Now it was our time to listen with rapt attention to the sage and practical advice of both our sons who were gung-ho and pretty exited.

LUCKY ME !! THE POWER CAME ON ! MISSION ACCOMPLISHED !

I stole an affectionate glance at Rabab and found her all smiles, and pink as peach. I thank ALLAH for having blessed me with such a wonderful family. END

DEAR READERS : I hope you enjoyed reading LUCKY ME but more important, many misconceptions and questions may have been removed. As for me I thoroughly enjoyed writing it, and being blessed to convey my thoughts and insights.

In the process I have used my imagination as well as facts, both have been deftly interlinked.

To conclude Rabab is my wife and as with ladies who love to hide their age I have made her younger by 11 years !!

Murtaza and Nooruddin are my two sons, but both of them died in their infancy. Had they lived both of them would have been strapping + 30 and apples of our eyes. In their premature deaths and sufferings I learnt a great lesson. There are no regrets, but fond remembrance. They taught me to live life in jest, and my writings, and my interaction with family and friends, is a living proof. I have two grown up children, and grand childrens.

A great life lesson I learnt from them was to empathize – to reach out to the suffering and the marginalized of the community, who are victims of circumstances, and not personal failures in life.

As Eckhart Tolle says in his best seller - A New Earth – these are the people who ACCEPT WHAT IS - they accept THE PRESENT MOMENT with fortitude. I feel it is for this particular section of the marginalized community for whom Aqa Moula (TUS) has referred so eloquently, in the Munazaat Sharifa, they must be in his thoughts, in his fervent ‘ilteza’ this Laylatul Qdr.

Dear Readers this story LUCKY ME I fondly dedicate to both my sons, who died in infancy. Any good that may come out from your reading, let it be their ‘sawab’ ALHAMDOLILLAH !

Abde Syedna (TUS)
Asgar Fakhrudin M 098312 42486

NOTE: Dear Readers. If you have liked LUCKY ME do forward the link to family and friends, as my reach is limited. You can also log on to my home page and Mind Mints Blog for further reading, and more comprehensive understanding of LUCKY ME

www.hikmaah.com

http://mindmints.blogspot.com

FAIZ UL MAWAID BURHANIYAH - 2ND POST

2011-09-11T00:37:00.000-07:00

Story – LUCKY ME ( continued …..

Sunday morning I got up fresh and rejuvenated and braced up for the day with a light toast and tea breakfast. Rabab also busied herself in the kitchen, as we were going to have a sumptuous dinner of Pumpkin Risotto – Humus Bil Lahm – Kebab Joojeh the ingredients for which could not be had in ordinary market store, so after quick bath drove out to the far away Spenser Specialty food outlet.

On reaching there, the shop assistant told me that for pita breads I will have to wait for an hour, as fresh stock was being awaited. Under the circumstances I had no other alternative but to just chill out – so I headed straight to across the street Barista and ordered Hazelnut Mocha and Chocolate Chip Muffins.

One hour is a long, long time, and it was early morning, there were hardly any customers, and amidst tranquil surrounding I drifted back and started reflecting on the Abyaat Sharifas, which had provided so much solace last night.

Let me share my reflections - Dear Readers - if you find some erroneous thinking on my part, do correct me, I will be deeply indebted.

Abyaat Sharifa 71 -

Aqa Moula (TUS) expresses that there are countless desires (niyaat) which he longs to be fulfilled ….. ke jehni kadar k'um chhe – ehne baland karoo.

We mumineen are all DEEN na farzando of our beloved Bawa Shafiq – we are all ‘baland qadar’ in that sense – hope my Readers agree - than what does Aqa Moula imply by saying that ‘ qadar k’um chhe ehne baland karoo’

Spiritually we are all the same, but in certain section of the affluent society a wrong perception has taken deep roots based on purely materialistic outlook – the yardstick of success is wealth – you are counted and seen by the car – the house you own and the latest mobile and other gadgets you flaunt etc: Much can be written, but to make the point, just making broad references.

So is it not that by sharing same food – the social beneficial effects are many, the widening gap – the disconnect in bridged? What say you dear Readers. Is my reasoning faulty ? Please correct me then ?

The FAIZ UL MAWAID BURHANIYAH is a most important initiative of leveling the ever widening chasm.
Agreed ? O K let me proceed.

Abyaat Sharifa 74 - ALLAH ! Do help those who help their brethren with love and affection in overcoming the difficulties of day to day living and make good his brothers shortcomings.

Here Aqa Moula (TUS) is blessing those who come forward – those who are enjoying the best of material comforts and good life – to come forward and help those of their marginalized mumineen brothers. They have the world, they are self sufficient but they are still in need of mu’asaat (help) and this help only Moula and Moula alone can give as a boon.

For M’aad we will not need a Ferrari - a Hublot Euro BB but our Aqa Moula’s doa Mubarak – his doa Mubarak will infuse us with spirituality – humanity – love for our fellow mumineen brethren – it will make us walk the ‘siraat’ with joy and abundance resulting from sharing – in this case sharing the same food that my fellow mumin bhai in shukr is so happy to have with his family – it has eased him of financial burden also but the important underlining message is – WE ARE ALL ONE !!

So it is a Win Win situation for both the giver and the receiver.

As I was sipping my Hazelnut Mocha across the table I found a copy of Sunday Telegraph, 11th Sept: 2011 and having more time in hand, I took it up and glanced at the Front Page.

MY EUREKA MOMENT AGAIN !

I read with interest the headline story – ‘ Osama gone, hunger gnaws’ by K.P.Nayar
The ‘Food Stamp’ Programme cleverly renamed ‘ Supplement Nutrition Assistant Programme’ (SNAP) The growing number of Americans 46 million and ever growing - their plight – how they are being looked upon by other affluent Americans, made an interesting reading.

I immediately called for a Note Pad and Pen from the counter, and noted down excerpts, which you can read, and if you so desire, the entire News Report, by clicking on the below link.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aRgl3UIVwZn2C7vUNXBu9wZQ6LD8DMXio_zroKBDXb8/edit?hl=en_US

I am confident that after reading it, specially American mumineen and all those in the Western countries, will see the immense benefits of FAIZ UL MAWAID BURHANIYAH

How I wish some mumineen associated with the Press Organizations can file a report on the on going ohbat.

I received a call that my pitta breads have arrived, so I left Barista to collect it, at the same time feeling more confident to lay out the facts of the case more purposefully, after dinner, when I will be talking ‘basket’ with my grown up sons !!

To be continued……..

Continue Reading LUCKY ME

http://asgarf.blogspot.com/2011/09/faiz-ul-mawaid-burhaniyah-3rd-post.html

FAIZ UL MAWAID BURHANIYAH

2011-09-10T07:26:00.000-07:00

A STORY - LUCKY ME

This story is a result of talking with a host of family and friends, not only in my city, but in many other cities and towns, over phone and on chats. There are facts deftly intertwined with imagination - I have tried to answer some of the questions being raised, the niyat is that it will provide my Readers with valuable insights and at the same time, the joy of reading.

Central characters -
My self - Asgar aged 50 years running own business and maintaining a study income and providing a decent standard of living to my family, and having a weakness for Tandoori Indian dishes.

Wife : Rabab aged 47 years. Home maker and an excellent cook .

Murtaza : Aged 23 years studying for his MBA and a lover of Fusion Foods.

Nooruddin : Aged 18 years in his final Year at School, has yet to decide on his future studies, has not given a thought , but of one thing he is sure, his love for Continental and Mediterranean food.

SO OURS IS A FAMILY WHERE FOOD PLAYS A CENTRAL PART IN OUR DAY TO DAY LIVING.

It is Sunday and our family is enjoying a sumptuous dinner of:

Pumpkin Risotto with Pickle Oil Ice cream
Hummus Bil Lahm and Kebab Joojeh

Tuwar pulao – palidoo – the favorite of my wife, and after toiling for the entire Sunday morning over the above 3 dishes, we as a family are very considerate to her, and do not expect her to make the elaborate Murgh Ki Raan where the making of galouti mixture for stuffing of Chicken, which requires the mixture to pass through the Mincer thrice is indeed a very tiring and time consuming process.

But my sons have made it clear that coming Sunday she has to make it or else they will be eating out – a notice which makes my poor wife shudder , to think of the costs of eating out.

I know the threat of eating out will work - come Sunday, and we will have Murgh ki Raan in our Thaal.

SO DEAR READERS THIS IS OUR FAMILY.

Now cut to Jumoa namaz two days back, where Janab Saheb appraised us of the salient points, the nitty gritty and most important the ‘barakats’ emanating for the individual, the family and the entire community at large from the ‘ FAIZ UL MAWAID BURHANIYAH’

He explained to all of us the a’ala niyaat and the significance of it, the haqiqats behind it are many , he said, which we fail to comprehend.

It is best known to our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) and his Mansoos (TUS) who has started this very unique and far reaching initiative, first started in London. Aqa Moula (TUS) speedy recovery is miraculous and when Janab saheb said that come Muharram and Insa Allah we will be blessed to hear the shadaat of Imam Husain (SA) from the Imami Takht once again, these words brought tears in many an eyes, and I for one was convinced.

I made immediate enquiries at the Mawaid centre and came to know that on payment of Rs: 4,600/- per month our family of 4 will be delivered a basket of wholesome nutritious Bohri food, and on further enquiry was pleased to know that the khidmatguzars are putting in a lot of effort, and the niyat is that out of 100 baskets – 60 will be paid for and 40 will be free baskets. Great concept I thought.

But knowing my family and specially my two sons I found the task very daunting. Worry was writ all over me when I returned home from office, and my wife Rabab immediately noticed it, but was kind enough not to push the issue in the fore front. Saturday also she found me in a very sullen and brooding nature and I confided her the problem that was perplexing me. She had a few encouraging words for me as I left for office.

It was decided between us that after Sunday dinner we will bring this ‘basket’ subject before the children. I wanted to put my case very convincingly, and being a stickler for details, Saturday was spent on reflecting - Googling on the subject of sharing food. Many hours of searching resulted in one convincing article by Dr. Phil Birtie – the Role of Food in Empowering Communities ( Refer to my previous Blog post)

There is much to food than mere physical benefits of nutrition and health. A good point I felt. Encouraged by this lead I read more and more. I found out that sharing same food is a means of bridging the gaps between same members of the community, which has arisen because of different socio economic conditions. The seeming disconnect between the affluent class and the marginalized class of the same community – we are brothers all - 'mara DEEN na farzando' so lovingly referred by Aqa Moula (TUS) - he is our Bawa Shafiq - he is doing the tadbeer for our 'ma'ad' - emancipation – than why so much disconnect. It pains to see people so unconcerned at the plight of their fellow mumineen etc: Such thoughts made me fully engrossed, so much so, that I found difficulty in sleeping.

Luckily for me as I was tossing and turning and try to understand the truths behind this unique ‘mohim’ and in order to find some solace and peace of mind, I took up to do tilawat of Munajaat sharifa 1432H

And started reading it, some thing told me an answer may be found here. As I read along I came upon the following Aby’at Sahrifa –

EUREKA !! HERE WAS THE ANSWER I WAS LOOKING FOR

As I turned the page the following Aby'at Sharifa made me more convinced.

A silent doa for my Aqa Moula (TUS) and his Mansoos A'li Qdr Muffadal Saifuddin Moula (TUS) escaped my lips and I went off to sleep.

To be continued Insa Allah .........

(I hope the message has been conveyed )
Continue reading LUCKY ME

http://asgarf.blogspot.com/2011/09/faiz-ul-mawaid-burhaniyah-2nd-post.html

http://asgarf.blogspot.com/2011/09/faiz-ul-mawaid-burhaniyah-3rd-post.html

FOOD AND COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT

2011-09-07T21:45:00.000-07:00

MY REFLECTIONS AND READING ON THE CURRENT INITIATIVE OF SHARING THE SAME FOOD IN OUR COMMUNITY AND A HUMBLE SALUTE TO ALL THOSE WHO ARE DEDICATING THEMSELVES TO MAKE IT POSSIBLE.

MORE SO IN BIG CITIES WERE THE LOGISTICS OF DISTRIBUTION IS A CHALLENGING TASK

Article : THE ROLE OF FOOD IN EMPOWERING THE COMMUNITIES - Phil Bartie Ph D

One aspect of community empowerment often overlooked in community development text books and teachings, is group eating ( our community encourages and fosters such group eating. we have it through out the year on different miqaats. The current initiative is unique, sharing the same food, irrespective of diverse social and economic standings !!)

As a social scientist can tell you, there is far more to food than its physical benefits of nutrition and health.

With whom we eat, when we eat, what we eat, where we eat and under what conditions we eat...... are all sociologically very significant.

(Under the present circumstances, we mumineen are well aware the niyat behind this community sharing of same food by all different strata of our community - the niyat is shifa e Kulli and umre darazi of our beloved Aqa Moula (TUS) The miraculous speedy recovery of Aqa Moula (TUS) is a glowing 'Aya't' ( incontrovertible sign) of the benefits and power of this and other initiatives being undertaken in accordance with the irshadaats of A'li Qdr Molayee Muffadal Saifuddin saheb.)

The author of the article makes a very powerful point by stating that : ' If logic and nutrition were the only concerns, we would all eat worms !'

The word 'comensal' is derived from the Latin ( root Arabic word meaning to share) In sociology eating together the same food together develops solidarity and trust. The concept of comensality in sociology simply means that 'people eat together'

This post I am specially dedicating to my younger brother Mulla MohammadB Mulla FakhrudinB Lokhandwala of Pune, who is doing the khidmat in overseeing the distribution of tiffins in his Tanzeem mohalla.

The logistics of distribution in big metropolis is really a challenging task, and knowing the inherent strength and dedication of our community, these challenges will surely be overcome.

There are unconfirmed reports of setting up a modern centralized kitchen complete with distribution network in Mumbai. In my own city the logistics of delivery are being worked out.

In cities like Patna having 40 households and Cuttuck having around 20 households, things are relatively easy. In towns like Godhra and in my own Lunavada, where mumineen live in Mohallas, it is relatively easy.

It would be interesting to see how distribution system is worked out in big cities. Mumineen who are involved in this khidmat can share their views. It would be a motivating at the same time a learning experience for others.

In Pune there are talks undergoing with a mumineen caterer who will be cooking and overseeing distribution of 72 tiffins. Interesting !

INDIA TV TENDERS APOLOGY

2009-04-07T18:44:00.000-07:00

India TV tenders apology on its prime time news broadcast. We the followers of Syedna Mohammad Burhanuddin Saheb on account of his guidance and teachings, have shown exemplary restrain and have not been provoked ( a few exceptions - I had to remove a few comments which were not in conformity with our faith, culture and upbringing- though it reflected the deep hurt and anguish of the community and others by disgruntled munafekeens, who tried to fish in troubled waters, and tried to hijack the issue)

I think for the first time in the history of Indian TV Journalism has such an apology aired by a Channel within 24 hours, of its broadcasting an absurd and derogatory news footage. I personally feel it is all because of the Spiritual Personality of His Holiness, who is hospitalized, but his radiance and guidance, has saved the community from falling into a trap, and at the same time, has achieved is objective, of exposing the machinations of the enemies of the community.

The enemies within the community, thought that this an opportune moment, with His Holiness not keeping well, the community must be vulnerable, and some 'sick minds' tried to strike a blow, but I am indebted to all those, who came forward and expressed their hurt and feelings, in a most appropriate manner befitting to the teachings of Islam. Friends we also have played our small part in this victory.

The enemies of the community used the media in a most detestable and negative manner, where as we used the same media in a very positive and purposeful manner.

The first one out of the block was Sonia, and when I read her comment immediately after posting, I came to know that my post has reached the confines of India TV and efforts to hijack the issue has been started by vested interests.

Sorry Sonia, you found out that the Bohra community was different. They do not tolerate and succumb to rabble rousers. Otters like Sweety and AC 1513 took advantage of the open discussion forum to unsheathe their daggers. The lesson to be learnt, is one should not be provoked as electronic media has its advantages and pitfalls.

In such instances, over reacting gives an advantage to the opposite party, as they can easily highjak and defeat the main issue.

The India TV apology aired the comments made by PRO from His Holiness's Office, so now we hope and pray that the top management may be co-operating with the Dawat and spilling the beans, as to the persons behind this sordid drama.

As one friend had commented I would also wish that once Aqa Moula (TUS) regains health, the top Management of India TV should come forward and seek personal apology from His Holiness, and the same should be aired on their prime time net work.

I also feel that a few heads should roll at India TV for bringing disgrace to the News Channel. In this recession times, it will do the organization more good than harm.

May Allah grant a very speedy recovery to our beloved His Holiness Dr. Syedna Mohammad Burhanuddin Saheb (TUS) and may the peace loving Bohra Community, move forward, and set example to the world communities in matters of responsible citizenship, which has been demonstrated in this instance. Ameen.

INDIA TV ABSURD AND DOCTORED NEWS FOOTAGE

2009-04-06T22:17:00.000-07:00

The absurd and malicious repeated telecast by India TV of the re-marriage of a Taliban Terrorist Baitullah, on their 9 pm. News on 6th April '09 and the doctored photo of our Aqa Moula (TUS) inserted, with the sole purpose by the enemies of our community to cause hurt and mislead, is highly reprehensible and condemned in the strongest words.

In today's (07-04-09) morning news edition the India TV channel has retraced and said SORRY, BUT ALREADY DAMAGE HAS BEEN DONE AND AT THIS STAGE MERELY SAYING SORRY WILL NOT SUFFICE.

ONE OF INDIA'S MOST PEACE LOVING COMMUNITY THE DAWOODI BOHRA'S WHO HOLD THEIR SPIRITUAL LEADER HIS HOLINESS DR. SYEDNA MOHAMMAD BURHANUDDIN SAHEB IN HIGH ESTEEM, HAVE BEEN HURT BADLY. AS REPORTS POUR IN THE COMMUNITY ALL OVER INDIA IS RISING UP IN PROTEST. IN DAHOD A BANDH IS BEING CALLED.

THE PEACE LOVING COMMUNITY SEEKS ANSWERS AND ONLY WHEN THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE FARCES ARE EXPOSED WILL TRUE JUSTICE BE DONE. WE SEEK ANSWERS MR. ROHIT BANSAL ( Chief Operating Officer) WE KNOW YOU HAVE THE ANSWERS. WHO WAS BEHIND THIS SHAME. THE CULPRITS NEED BE EXPOSED.

THE REPORTING WAS FALSE - IT HAS BEEN CONFIRMED BY YOUR CHANNEL.

NOW TELL US WHO WAS BEHIND IT ? WHO GAVE THE IDEA OF INSERTING THE PHOTO IN A UNRELATED AND MOST IMPROBABLE SCENARIO. FALSEHOOD HAS BEEN EXPOSED - NOW THE BOHRA COMMUNITY NEEDS FACTS - ARE YOU GAME MR ROHIT BANSAL ?

THE OBAMA EFFECT - IT SEEMS TO BE WORKING

2009-02-01T22:27:00.000-08:00

What I admire of the American Democracy most, is the smooth transition of power after the election. Once the electorate verdict is out, there is no animosity and backbiting, at least in the public. There is a show of mutual respect by both the victor and the vanquished.

Many of our community members were very exited with the middle name of Barack Obama. I was amused by an SMS received which went something like Barack Hussain Obama, became the 44th American President on 24th Muharram – Ya Husain !! I simply replied back,) feeling sorry for being a damper, stating the last name of the atrocious dictator who killed many innocent Iraqis, mainly shias was Husain !!

So more than the name, the work of the man, his upbringing, his qualifications, his track record and past achievements, are important. Considering all these factors, people around the world at large and the American people have high expectations. But the task ahead is a very difficult one for the OA given the condition of the world economy.

However, within a short span, things are showing a CHANGE. Recently President Barack Obama minced not words in lashing out to Wall Street Investment Bankers, for taking home nearly $20 billion in bonuses, at a time when tax payers money was being given to them as bailouts.

He is sending out hard hitting messages, and this has already started to show results to some extent. The simmering anger against the ‘fat cats’ is receiving momentum and the Bankers and Insurance people are going on their back foot, for the first time.

A case in point is that lavish spending is being curbed, and John A. Thain, the former Merrill Lynch executive, who was forced out of Bank of America for renovation of his office that included an $87,000 (Rs 42.4 lakh) area rug and a $ 35,000 (Rs: 17.08 lakh ) commode !!! Good sense has finally prevailed on this high profile executive and he has confirmed that he will reimburse the Bank, the entire amount.

Citigroup has been made to see common sense in abandoning its plan to buy $50 million corporate jet. So results are showing, but the road ahead is still long and hard. Yesterday at a Davos Debate on BBC the Investment Bankers and Business Heads on the panel, had a harrowing time answering to pointed queries, as to why they should not shoulder the blame, and they oft repeated reply that the problem was not with their integrity and honesty, in most cases but with the problems in the ‘financial system’. However, their argument did not hold water, with the now fully aware audience and one lady Economic Professor and existing Merrill Lynch Director, made a show by stepping down from her stool. One Company Director confirmed that he did not know how the financial system was working, but as long as he and others were making money, it was fine.

According to some Investment Bankers on the Wall Street, they say that for all their ‘hard work’ they deserve the bonuses.

Is it for hard work or ignorance - a point to be considered. Ignorance of the financial system made them rich. However, hard they may try to justify, it was GREED AND GREED ALONE., that has resulted in this economic tsunami, the effect of which has started to be felt by countries around the world.

HOW TO SURVIVE JOB LOSS

2009-01-28T22:37:00.000-08:00

How to survive job losses in the current Economic meltdown, is a grave problem to be addressed forthwith. It is a realistic problem snowbowling with devastating effect, and our community members are also facing the heat. As I write this post, a friend has just called in to say, that two of his relatives one in US and another in Singapore have lost their jobs, and are confused and so very worried, as to their future.

I feel experts and professionals in the field of human behavioral science, should take an active step in spreading their knowledge, in such a way that precious lives are not lost, on spur of the moment decisions, where the jobless family head takes a decision.

A case in point is a report in today’s News Paper about a medical technician Ervin Antonio Lupoe, who with his wife had been sacked from their jobs in a medical centre, took the drastic step of shooting all their five children and themselves. The rationale for this act, as given by Ervin in a fax letter sent to a TV channel was that – Why leave the children to a stranger ?

I think this horrific action may have been averted, if Ervin and his wife, may have received some sort of councelling.

Now this is horrific, and for this reason it is very important that the problem should be addressed with utmost urgency. On the day when Ervin took his life and that of his family, 70,000 people across the world, including 55,000 in US alone have lost heir jobs, not account of personal inefficiency to deliver, but because of global financial crisis, in which in most of the cases, they were not to be blamed.

Big business organizations do not shed jobs on impulse. The Management plans it much in advance, and identifies the persons, who will be given the sack. So the top management knows in advance.

Is it not possible for some humanitarian organization to take up the mantle of helping out by reaching out to those, who are to loose their jobs ? If some sort of personal contact is established with them , at least such horrific incidents can be in the least be avoided. A safety net to overcome remorse and depression, would be a welcome step.

A planned strategy with the business organization, wanting to shed jobs, and social net work groups, could be of great help.

What do you think of this idea ? Is it feasible ? Suggestions are welcome.

SATYA - WHERE HAS THE SATYAM MONEY GONE

2009-01-09T22:57:00.000-08:00

I am not so much concerned with those holding Satyam shares, (they were just out there to capitalize on others hard work, with their flush funds. I agree Capital is needed, but getting up each morning, logging on to investment sites, making a few phone calls, getting ‘insider’ information and buying/selling shares, personally to me, does not constitute, honest labor – so I am not that concerned )

I am more concerned with the life and fate of the talented and resourceful employees of Satyam, who being true and honest to their company, had contributed so much, and now they find themselves in a very precarious situation. My heart goes out to them.

Yesterday two important decisions were taken by the UPA Government, which shows that, carrots have long been given, now the ‘stick’ has to be wielded. The oil strike was broken by using ESMA and Satyam Board was dismissed and Ramlinga Raju made to surrender. It is to be seen how soon he starts ‘singing’.

Myself being a real ‘dud’ in matters concerning finance, I could not fathom, how, all of a sudden, a reputed and leading I/T company, having full work load, can all of a sudden collapse. Where has the money gone. The reputation of its Founder and the Board is in tatters, but we have to find the money, it must be parked some where.

I was thinking on this line, when I came across an interesting article entitled

Is India a Poor Country? Black Money, World Aid and The Coming Sovereign Crack Down of Tax Havens.
DK Matai - October 20, 2008

I think the Satyam employees should constitute a Committee comprising of their best finance whiz kids, who should then fly to Switzerland and also check out other tax heavens. And I am sure, they will surely find the hidden hoards, so at least, and lay claim to it, so that they can continue to contribute to the growth of the company, retaining their customer base, and also drawing their salaries.

I have just copy pasted, some of the salient points I found to be of interest in the article. Hope it will prove to be an eye opener. My eyes had simply popped out, as I read the contents.
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Surprisingly, India -- still regarded as a poor country by many -- has USD 1.5 trillion in Swiss banks, which is more black money than the rest of the world combined. This is thought to be unaccounted money earned in India by inappropriate means as otherwise any Indian citizen or corporation wishing to open a bank account abroad has to take permission from the Reserve Bank of India and records do not show any such permissions granted for deposits in Switzerland.

A 2006 report of the Swiss Banking Association claims Indians are the biggest depositors of black money in banks located in Switzerland. Top five countries in terms of such deposits are:

India: USD 1,456 billion (Way to Go INDIA – ECONOMIC MUJAHEDEEN OUT TO WRECK THE COUNTRY – NO ONE IS WORRIED ABOUT THEM – SO VERY SURPRISING !!!)

Russia: USD 470 billion
United Kingdom: USD 390 billion
Ukraine: USD 100 billion
China: USD 96 billion

With private account deposits of USD 1.5 trillion in foreign reserve which have been misappropriated, an amount 10 times larger than India's foreign debt -- USD 155+ billion -- one needs to rethink if India is a poor country?

It is argued that once this huge amount of black money and property comes back to India, the entire foreign debt can be repaid immediately, still leaving a huge surplus amount of foreign exchange reserves in India. Some 80,000 Indians travel to Switzerland every year, of whom 25,000 travel very frequently. "Obviously, these people won't be tourists. They must be travelling there for some other reason," believes an official involved in tracking illegal money. And, clearly, he is not referring to the commerce ministry bureaucrats who have been flying in and out of Geneva ever since the World Trade Organisation (WTO) negotiations went into a tailspin!
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The well known economist Professor Arun Kumar estimates black money generation in India to be currently 50% of the GDP. The growth of black money in proportional percentage to the GDP has shown an alarming increase in recent years, from 20% in the 1980s to 45 - 50% at the turn of the century. It is further estimated by experts that one per cent of the world's population holds more than 57 per cent of total global wealth, routing it invariably through tax havens. ATCA's preliminary investigation to analyse the Swiss banking chain and to assess Indian wealth in that single country, suggests that the number is much larger than the USD 1.4 trillion figure and is more likely to be near USD 3 trillion. The larger figure can be derived from the deposits in vaults of gold, diamonds and other precious gems alongside assets managed out of Switzerland in other tax havens. There are some well known 'slush parks' like St Kitts, Antigua, Bahamas, Isle of Man and Liechtenstein that multiply such holdings manifold with the central management points in Switzerland.
MIND BOGGLING EH !!! OK IWILL NOT TAX YOUR BRAIN FURTHER.
I HAVE MADE MY POINT ! THANK YOU DK MATAI - now to some extent I know where the Satyam money is parked. Happy hunting !!!

SATYAM TRUTH – Raju confesses to the biggest corporate fraud in India

2009-01-07T22:19:00.000-08:00

The Telegraph has termed it as ‘SATYAM LIE’ as its lead story headline. However, I think it is ‘SATYAM TRUTH’. Mr. B Ramalinga Raju (Former Chairman Nasscom and Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year – 2007) has come clean and spoken the truth on the auspicious day of Vaikunda Ekadasi – when people do something good.

His admitting of a perpetual fraud being practiced for past several years, has resulted in investor wealth worth Rs: 2,13,349 crores has melted down in a single day.

2009 has begun with a bang and we in India should be proud that we are following in the foot steps of the most development Nation of the World – US. I am a firm believer, that what is happening is for the general good of the humanity.

I am quoting extensively from the post on Intent Blog by D.K. Matai and according to him, and I fully endorse his view that –

‘The characteristics of the Golden Age are likely to be accelerated enlightenment, renaissance and reinvention of the individual's thinking, societal group think and the redesign of linear industrial age systems and support mechanisms towards non-linear and circular ones by corporations, organisations and governments.’

Lao Tzu states in Tao Te Ching (in Verse 46):

"There is no greater vice than giving in to greed,
No greater calamity than not knowing contentment,
No greater imputation than succumbing to covetousness.
Therefore, know and be content with what is enough.
Then you will always have enough."

Lao Tzu states elsewhere (in Verse 44):

"The more excessive is your attachment,
The greater is your suffering.
The more excessive is your possession,
The heavier is your loss.
To know what is enough is to be free from disgrace.
To know when to stop is to be free from danger.
Those who practice this will long endure." (Quote ends)

So when the economic tsunami ends hopefully by the end of 2009 as predicted by renowned economists, this world will be an enlightened and a better place to live in. Gross materialism will give way to Spirituality and harmony, people will appreciate the small joys of life, family and community bonds will become stronger, people will not be self centered and egoistics, and will reach out to others, in short, this world of ours will be a better place.

Prof: Niall Ferguson (Professor of History at Harvard University, Professor of Business Administration at Harvard Business School) has rightly termed the recent economic meltdown as ‘GREAT REPRESION’ and his reason is more interesting, that although this was the worst economic crisis in 70 years , many people remained in deep denial mode.

Here I would like to share my thoughts on ‘The Great Repression’ not of the economy, but on the real cause, and that is the continued denial of the inevitable fact that, one day death is going to overtake us. The Business Leaders were riding the tiger, and thought they will ride for ever.

Satyam was brought to it knees within a month, because B.Ramlinga Raju was living in a denial mode, and thought , that he will be able to overcome the economic challenges and cover up the fraud, he had been perpetuating for past several years. It is good that he has come clean finally.

His misdeed are paltry, when compared to the US Federal Reserve – ‘Great Repression’ and very frightening indeed. Just go through the following passages taken from DK Matai’s post, and make self assessment of the economic tsunami.

If we examine the US monetary base -- all paper dollars and coinage in existence -- it took two centuries for the monetary base to go from USD 0+ to USD 800 billion, but in just the past 3-months it has nearly doubled -- growing from around USD 800 billion to USD 1.5 trillion -- and by the time we look closely again in 2009 it will probably have surpassed USD 2 trillion. That is double the number of paper dollars in existence since last summer! Moreover, until September 2008, the month of the Lehman Brothers collapse, the Federal Reserve had held the expansion of the Monetary Base virtually flat. The 76% expansion has almost entirely taken place within the past three months, which implies an annualized expansion rate of more than 300%.

American banks have exchanged USD 2 trillion of presumed toxic waste securities consisting of Asset-Backed Securities in sub-prime mortgages, stocks and other high-risk credits in exchange for Federal Reserve cash and US Treasury bonds or other Government securities still rated AAA, ie, risk-free. The result is that the Federal Reserve is holding some USD 2 trillion in largely junk paper from the financial system. The banks benefiting from the Fed's actions naturally oppose any release of information because that might signal 'weakness' and spur short-selling, selling or a run by depositors - whether or not they are appropriate in doing so.

So friends, who have reposed faith in the generation of wealth by trading papers, brace up for the worst in the coming months. There surely will be nothing left for your attachment and surely this will reduce your suffering, you will become emancipated and free, and soar high like a free bird, thankful of the small blessings, that will open up with your increased ‘awareness’

I also believe that the Golden Age has surely dawned amidst all the economic mess.
So be positive and try to understand the blessing that will you will harvest in 2009
If you still think that wealth generation will happen without your effort and honest labour, you are in for a rude shock.

MUMBAI TERRORIST ATTACK - NOW THAT THE DUST SETTLES DOWN

2008-12-02T21:57:00.000-08:00

After 62 hours of live coverage of the Mumbai terrorist attack, and much speculations, conjectures, followed by hours of debates and expert opinions, now as the dust settles down, it is time to examine emerging facts. TRUTH IS VERY SIMPLE.
I am simply submitting the facts, and it is for you to reflect (taffakur) on them. In today's Telegraph (3rd December) under the header "Mumbai update' the following information has been provided by the Police Commissioner, in his first news conference, since the end of the terror attack.
* All terrorists accounted for : 9 killed, 1 arrested
* Travelled in 5 taxis in groups of two, carrying five time bombs.
* Two each went to Victoria Terminus, Taj, Cafe Leopold, Nariman House and Oberoi Trident
* Leopold attackers joined the Taj team.
* ATTACKERS HAD NEVER COME TO MUMBAI BEFORE
* CREDIT CARDS SEIZED BELONGED TO KILLED GUESTS.
* NO EVIDENCE TO SHOW LOCAL SUPPORT
* Ex-officers of Pakistan Army trained group for a year. No evidence to suggest Dawood role.
* Terrorists came on a suicide mission. Had no plans to return.
* Return route found on GPS seized on Kuber fishing trawler. automatically generated. Not programmed.
* AFTER VT (RLY: STATION:) ATTACK, THE ATTACKERS AT A LOSS WHAT TO DO. SO THEY CAME OUT AND FIRED AT CAMA HOSPITAL (the most unfortunate incident, I feel, as the country, lost 3 of its best security officers)

Thought provoking facts have emerged in another report by S R Goswami.
OF THE 150 ODD INDIANS DEAD IN THE TERROR ATTACK, AT LEAST48 ARE MUSLIMS.
Now the following is an eye witness account, which proves beyond doubt, that the terrorist were out there to create mayhem, and fighting for the Muslim cause and Islam, was never their agenda.
Read on and reflect, many TV channels have exceeded their limits, in their quest for 'upmanship' and politicians have played dirty politics, and their personal interest will bring more harm than good.

I fervently appeal to narrow minded bigots to please desist from playing politics of tragedies. If you feel you are not answerable to the people, you will certainly be made answerable to the ONE. (sorry for being carried away, now I report the incident alluded to earlier)

On November 26, Jadhav (the taxi driver) was at the CST railway terminus, when the militants struck. " I saw a Muslim woman in a burqa running with a baby in her arms. She suddenly came face to face with a terrorist, " he said.

" He shot her and the baby without batting an eyelid. My whole worldview changed in a moment"
I hope and pray that the narrow parochial views of many Indians will change, when they reflect on the facts, and are not carried away by opinions and wrong and biased reporting.

Here I would also like to quote from a forward written way back in 1935 by Muhammad Mustafa al Maraghil - Grand Shayk of al Azhar for the autobiography of Prophet Muhammad (SA) by Muhammad Husayn Haykal.

Commenting on the West's concern for the study of Islam's teaching and heritage and the utmost care, taken by the Western Scholars, he said: ' In the process the strongest protagonists of Islam , may well be its strongest enemies, whereas its present alien antagonists may be Islam's adherents and defenders. As in the early period, the strangers (Medinites) have supported Islam. '

Muhammad (SA) was prosecuted by his own kinsfolk at Mecca.

I hope that barring a few radical bigots in the majority as well as the minority community of our country, the rational and right thinking Indians, will not be swayed by political leaders and news reports, that carry a hidden agenda.

TRUTH I REPEAT AGAIN IS SIMPLE.
BE HONEST AND TRUTHFUL.

FEAR

2008-11-27T20:48:00.000-08:00

This is the headline in very bold letters with a big size photo depicting fearful eyes, carried by The Telegraph (28-11-08) It is already more than 36 hours and FEAR seems to grip the entire country. A Nation that prides itself in having a well trained, sophisticated and dedicated Army and other well trained commando units to tackle terror and contingencies, are up against a highly motivated and deeply indoctrinated terrorist.

The problem is that they have been so trained and indoctrinated that they seem to have over come the FEAR of DEATH.

So basically it is fight between a group of terrorists who have overcome FEAR and a Nation who fears for the safety of their citizens, the foreign tourists and residents, and the armed and para military forces.

It is FEAR that the terrorists holed up, and by now fighting a loosing battle, may go to the extreme and blow themselves up, because they have overcome the FEAR OF DEATH and in so doing many more precious lives will be lost.

This is the prime concern and the cause of worry. It is a matter of relief to see the pictures of Foreign Nationals, 30 in all as per news Channel report , haggard and badly shaken coming out of Oberoi Trident. The picture of a small baby coming out safe from the ordeal is a matter of relief.

As I write this, I have received an SMS on which I will not like to comment, under the most difficult circumstances. But it does convey a portent message, that we Indians should rise above narrow ghetto mentality and banal politics.

Text of the SMS ' plz forward raj thackeray's phone no: if you find it. Dnt know whr he is when y need him. w want him 2 go n save amchi mumbai with his MNS goondas. The sons of the D soil, Army NSG and commandos r nt marathi manoos. They r NORTH INDIANS --- fight and lay their life 4 mumbaikars. Jai Maharashtra sorry JAI HIND.

A bit crude but all the same carrying a portent message, not only for mumbaikars but all Indians living in different States. The immense sacrifices that have been made in the past 36 hours and the battle to flush out the terrorists continue, let us learn some lessons, to rise above petty regional based politics.

MUMBAI LANDMARKS UNDER TERRORIST ATTACK

2008-11-26T22:30:00.000-08:00

Early morning of 27th November 2008 brought home the grim reality of the dangerous place our world has become. Terrorist have managed to blow the cover of security and safety with impunity. The gory details of mayhem and cold blooded murder is being played out on all media channels, each vying with other to bring home to viewers with lucid details.

The Authorities have taken the correct decision of putting a 'gag' on the media coverage, by sending sms to all TV channels, not to divulge strategic details of the operation, to flush out the terrorist and secure the safely of the people being held hostages.

This I think is the very correct approach, as thousands watching the channels and being fed by inputs by the media, will in no way help in the operation of flushing out the terrorist. On the contrary it may prove detrimental to the effecting working of the armed forces, as the terrorist holed up at Taj, Oberoi and Nariman House, may be also watching the news channels, and working out counter strategies.
The hunger for news in any of such incidents is obvious, in people far removed from the scene of tragedy, and each news channel tries to get to its viewers ' breaking news' with much fanfare. specially Aaj Tak Hindi excels in rhyming the news broad casts. At times it feels so sick.

So this time round I feel the Authorities have taken a correct decision, in requesting all the news channels from desisting in broadcasting strategic information.

I feel so much pain and remorse at this senseless tragedy, that has taken so many innocent lives. The armed forces are continuing their operation to flush out the terrorist, and I hope and pray that, they succeed without more loss of lives.

Not being updated is a very small price to pay, in such instances, when the operation is being carried out, there should definitely be a 'gag' on the media.
Later on there will be enough time to discuss and analyse the situation, as to the how things played out, where the lapses occurred.

Now is the time to feel the pain and keep on praying.

THERE ARE OTHER IMPORTANT THINGS THAN GDP

2008-11-25T21:31:00.000-08:00

Each and every country is intensely preoccupied with GDP. Although it is an integral indices of the country's development, it is not all inclusive.
We need to remember what Robert F. Kennedy said on the subject of the economy. "Yet the gross national product does not allow for the health of our children, the quality of their education, or the joy of their play. It does not include the beauty of our poetry or the strength of our marriages; the intelligence of our public debate or the integrity of our public officials. It measures neither our wit nor our courage; neither our wisdom nor our learning; neither our compassion nor our devotion to our country; it measures everything, in short, except that which makes life worthwhile." (Quote courtesy Intentblog)

CITI sleeps with Govt: Money

2008-11-24T22:21:00.000-08:00

This is how The Telegraph (25-11-08) has carried the front page News item, a nice twist on the tag line of the largest Bank which had prided itself in stating 'Citi never sleeps' and in so doing they have made such a mess of their finances and the trust of millions of depositors, who if the bail out was not carried out by the US Govt: would also like their Bank would never sleep.
The facts and figures are so mind boggling, it is like watching an action packed Bond movie.

The facts : Citigroup has high risk assets of $306 billion (Rs: 15.3lakh crore)
From the Indian perspective these figures translate into :
50 times the annual net profit of all Indian Banks.
6 times the annual revenue of all Indian Banks
6 times the share value of all Indian Banks
2 times the total assets of private banks in India
53 per cent of total assets of all Indian Banks.

Why spend money watching Bond Movies, just buy a Telegraph costing only Rs: 2/- and you get the same adreline rush. In this case the Good Guy (US Tax payers hard earned money) has saved the Bad Guy. A nice twist in the storyline. The Bad Guy will be more embolden to perform more badly, because he knows for sure now, that the Good Guy can again be managed.