63 years behind..

The verdict of the Ayodhya dispute was declared today. Albeit a lot of tension and apprehensions of violence and riots the verdict was taken well by most of the people. The verdict is simple. It follows the basic principal to divide the pie for which the fight exists.

Unfortunately the verdict also follows the policy which was adopted by the foreign rulers 63 years ago.Divide the land based on religion. The division of the disputed land of Ayodhya is not just a solution but in my opinion its is an endorsement that Hindus and Muslims cannot co-exist. And we all know how untrue is this myth. We all have heard stories from our parents and grand-parents that how in the time of adversity the two communities have only strengthened their bonds. How untrue these stories seem in times like this.

India is growing at a phenomenal rate. Rapid industrialisation, policies to implement compulsory education, reduction in unemployment are in place. However what I was left wondering is that culturally no progress made by this country. Are our minds so fragile that they can be divided on the basis that were true 63 years ago.

I do not see this verdict as a step forward. In fact it is a step backward. It might be a solution to 'a' problem but it is a problem to many solutions that the modern Indian is trying to work out. The court has taken 20 years to deliver the verdict however I feel that in one day we have moved 63 years behind.

Turkish Delight!!

Being an avid traveler and ensuring adventure on my travels I have come across some interesting things at the places I visit. One common feature of most of the big cities is the notorious crooks. The ones in Vegas and Atlanta are known world over but there are thousands of smaller scams running every where.

One of the interesting and common scams in Istanbul is related to men, women and drinks. The turks have interesting ways of striking a conversation with you. Mostly you are delighted as you generally do not meet a turk who is articulate in English. They invite you to some place where 'local' drinks are served. Its all so spontaneous and pleasant that you go to the bar with the guy (unless you have read this post!). After a few drinks a girl comes to accompany you on the table. Obviously you do not want to do anything but your friend suggests that she would be harmless. Your chivalry suggests that you buy drinks for the girl. You realise after some time that she is down 4 drinks already while your 1st one is going on. Thats ok. You are made to believe. Until the bill comes!

The uncovering of the scam starts now. The drinks that you had obliged the girl with cost 4-5 times the normal drink. And as she has had 4-5 drinks you end up paying for 20 drinks! The biggest loss would be that the effect of only one you had also would wear off while you are paying the bill!