Gandhi Jayanthi (146th Birth Anniversary) – Remembering the Mahatma in 2015

October 2, 2015

By Padmini Arhant

Commemorating Mahatma Gandhi’s 146th birth anniversary.

Peace and non-violence pioneer’s steadfastness to free India from foreign rule posed immense challenge to the imperial power.

Mahatma Gandhi’s simple and humble attributes was in contradiction to flamboyance and pompous disposition maintained in the position of authority.  The genuine leadership is often recognized in sincerity, integrity, courage and commitment to serve humanity.

Most importantly speaking the truth without fear or concern for smear determines individual character and selflessness – a rarity in power oriented politics promoting false image to subvert reality.

Gandhi exemplified virtues with emphasis on equality and harmony transcending prejudice based on race, religion, caste and creed. The world blinded by violence and acrimony emanating from greed and desire for dominance rejects peace with no respect for life other than own existence despite death a certainty for all.

Mahatma’s relentless pursuit on liberty and unity characterized Gandhian principle in the hope to alleviate suffering among the poor, hungry and oppressed population worldwide.

Freedom struggle continues in the aftermath of Mahatma Gandhi and compatriots sacrifice with corruption and criminality governing politics contributing to huge economic and social disparity.

In pre-independence period there were remarkable members in society pledging their life, time and resources for the country sharing the common dream to liberate homeland. 

The alacrity in claiming sovereignty from foreign control attracted volunteers across the spectrum with single goal in mind to decline subjugation.

In comparison, the present time sworn allegiance to sources embarked on treason and depleting state treasury with guaranteed political impunity.

The dominion republic status is acceptable due to benefits to political establishment and affluent class from subservience to undemocratic system compromising national and public interest.

Nonetheless, Mahatma Gandhi and legions dedication in  patriotic endeavor ever remain the beacon of light to awakened mind.

Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi and other great souls for indelible mark on patriotism and honorable legacy.

Peace to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

 

 

India – Gandhi Jayanti 2014

October 3, 2014

 The audio version of the text is presented for citizens across the spectrum.  Your interest and support is always appreciated.

By Padmini Arhant 

India celebrates Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday on October 2, 2014.

Mahatma Gandhi, the prominent leader led India towards independence movement.

However, the foreign influence and political loyalty to domestic and overseas interests lay overcast and confirm the dominion republic status rendering Mahatma Gandhi and several other patriots sacrifice futile.

India’s political system under hegemony control conditioned to oblige and appease colonial powers and institutions behind global mayhem.

The subversion of democracy evident in flawed electoral events invariably comprising vote rigging, counterfeit notes distribution to buy votes, black money circulation alongside foreign financing is anything but free and fair election. 

Regardless of political parties and factions, the proxy rule continues at hegemony behest with subjugation substituting liberation.

The world’s largest democracy in disguise represents and implements hegemony agenda beginning with suppression of free speech, zero tolerance to fact finding and truth presentation, curbing constructive criticism against misuse of authority, excess power to leaderships and Parliament members and,

Last but not the least extraordinary privileges at taxpayers expense are the core elements of dysfunctional governance.

The key factor is the lack of initiative and political will to crackdown on corruption leaving politics the epicenter for abuse of public office and funds using the relevant position to rake profits through strong alliance with economic, entertainment and other sectors in the nation.

The current administration and political counterparts participation in the Clean India campaign could perhaps be appropriate in directing attention towards Clean Indian Politics bringing entities involved in various scandals and scams without exception to justice. 

Furthermore, the political authorities in ruling and opposition pursuing high moral ground could lead the nation with asset disclosure and surrender of wealth desperately required to promote economic and social equality.

The leaderships’ action in this context as trendsetter for rank and file in politics as well as the entire country might be the turning point in Indian political history. 

Swachh Bharat Abhiyan could be successful only upon Swatantra Bharat Prayas in the freedom from corruption and hegemony policy arguably posing impediments in meaningful development.

The resistance to sanitize political environment witnessed until today with little or no desire to pass effective anti-corruption bill and law enforcement on lawmakers despite them being the majority lawbreakers is reflective of fractured structure.

Not to mention criminal background amongst ruling class become the acceptable norm evolving into life threatening epidemic.

The internal purification is essential in removing the clutter and waste from human mind.

The self-cleansing act via introspection while renouncing illegal surveillance on selective targets is the preliminary step towards reconciliation with reality.

Subsequently the process would facilitate to exemplify honesty and integrity – a rare commodity in politics.

Clean India motto preceded by Corruption free India as cornerstone to healthy living standards would then prove political commitment to pervasive progress.

Failure to clear clogging in political apparatus and government operation attributed to net deficit in ethics and propriety.

The general surroundings nationwide are the mirror image of political stagnation and foreign dominance.

Accordingly, addressing the issue at origin would improve the situation all around.

Mahatma Gandhi and other brave souls hard fought independence is compromised in the contemporary political pledge of allegiance to regency and dynasty.

The emancipation struggle is prolonged for those yet to experience liberty from economic woes and disenfranchisement.

On that note, I convey my best wishes to Indian electorate in revival of democracy representative of people and governance protecting national treasury and endowments rather than political members crimes with impunity.

Jai Bharat!

Peace to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. – Life and Legacy

January 16, 2012

By Padmini Arhant

The great leader is remembered today for his commitment and sacrifice towards social justice and equality.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. – a theologian and peace activist touched many lives across the spectrum with a deep understanding for human suffering that led to civil rights movement.

Emulating Mahatma Gandhi’s non-violent principle in civil disobedience,

Dr. King enlightened society on basic human rights i.e.

All are born to be free and created equal.

The civil rights leader prevailed in emancipation from segregation and subjugation.

Dr. King inspired many in recognizing human values through mutual respect and empathy for one another.

Considering the intensity in human rights violation – Dr. King admirably practiced peaceful and non-violent means to break barriers proving the power of virtuous deeds.

Dr. King’s human rights legacy constitutes American heritage.

However, the civil rights legend dream for mankind – world without prejudice,

Perhaps be reality then conflicts driven atrocities would not be dominant characteristics in contemporary society.

Innocents would not be incarcerated and sentenced to premature death like Troy Davis and many in the nation proudly declared as – the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Guantanamo bay would not exist with nearly 175 human beings held in indefinite detention as terror suspects without trial or legal representation while enduring medieval age torture.

The latest incident involving certain U.S. marine indignation of deceased Afghan fighters in war torn Afghanistan and previously Abu Ghraib would not become the American image.

Congress would not be preparing to curb Internet access denying constitutionally guaranteed first bill of rights.

Similarly congressional efforts in restricting minority voting rights through mandatory voter ID would not be threatening citizens’ fundamental exercise to elect representative in a democracy.

Peaceful protesters might not have confronted with violent crack down from government.

Patriot Act – spying and constant surveillance along with unwarranted wiretapping would not be the law in the land of justice.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. had a dream paradoxical to present events.

Nonetheless, Dr. King’s faith in better tomorrow resonates throughout with global revolutions such as occupy protests and Arab spring demonstrating civil rights martyr spirit in overcoming challenges now and the days ahead.

DR. Martin Luther King Jr. dedication to civil rights and life in general would always be cherished and honored in perseverance for social progress.

Peace to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://youtu.be/qlBNW6JnGUo

Gandhi Jayanthi – Remembering the Mahatma

October 2, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

India along with the rest of the world pays tribute to the pioneer of Peace and Non-Violence  – commemorating the Mahatma’s birth on 2nd October, 1869.

Mahatma Gandhi continues to remain the pillar of strength and paragon of virtue in modern history.

Gandhiji’s non-violence i.e. Ahimsa philosophy to achieve political freedom for India extended beyond the shores and emulated by other venerable leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, in civil rights movement and later by prominent freedom fighters viz. Dr. Nelson Mandela until recently in the revolutions across the Middle East.

Mahatma Gandhi’s conviction on peace as the formidable option in resolving conflicts, ending incessant wars and violence proved in the events world over.

The peace advocate pledge to humanity was largely premised on tremendous respect for life and unity among all not barring race, religion, caste, class, education or otherwise socio-economic background.

Mahatma Gandhi was a dedicated environmentalist extending his service in the protection of all species and aptly reflected in one of his many famous quotes –

“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.”

On effective governanceMahatma Gandhi revealed the unadulterated Truth the influential demography prefers to ignore in contemporary politics.

“An error does not become truth by reason of multiplied propagation, nor does truth become error because nobody sees it.

Corruption and hypocrisy ought not to be inevitable products of democracy, as they undoubtedly are today.”

The human suffering is largely contributed to abuse of power denying basic rights, fairness and equal opportunity.

Telangana plight in Andhra Pradesh, India, Sri Lankan Tamils endurance of injustice, oppression and persecution in Yemen, Syria, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Bahrain…and occupied territories around the world serve as examples in presumptuousness overcast on leadership responsibility towards the republic.

Discussion on Telangana, Sri Lankan Tamils…will be presented in the immediate course.

Gandhian spirit has inspired many in the past and the present with more to follow in the future.

With due reverence to the Mahatma (The Greatest Soul to walk on earth),

Wishing Bapu (Father of the Nation) and the icon of Peace for the global society,

Many Happy Returns of the Day! Gandhi Jayanthi Shubh Kamnayein on this day, October 2, 2011.

Peace to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

http://youtu.be/e1FK2Rqdy-Y http://youtu.be/uP9Gwi5-x-0

India – Shri Anna Hazare’s Health and Government Inaction

August 22, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

Government inaction on Jan Lokpal bill is rejection of republic will.

The government explanation for ignoring the overwhelming public plea to pass Jan Lokpal bill is not convincing and procrastination does not serve in public or national interest except benefitting political agenda.

This strategy is undemocratic.   With the nation behind Jan Lokpal bill, the reluctance to expedite legislation clarifies the government apathy for people suffering,

Notwithstanding the economic liability burdened on the youth and struggling segments in the society.

If the ruling power and the opposition alike do not have any inclination to disavow corruption rampant in politics and across the society,

Then the Indian electorate could exercise the democratic right to replace their representatives with members pledged to the nation and the citizens rather than submitting to foreign subjugation.

As for the constitutionality clichéd in the ruling power’s defense in declining people’s request on anti-corruption law,

It is poignant to raise the question –

Is promoting dynastic rule declared democratic in the Constitution?

While civil movement leader Shri Anna Hazare’s vision for corrupt free society denigrated by ruling authority comparing the Gandhian to fallen Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi and Communist ex-premier Mao Tse-Tung,

Indian governance emulating Italian model under Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi and deteriorating further in adapting former Prime Minister Benito Mussolini’s hardline leadership exhibited during brutal clamp down of peaceful participants – men, women and children beaten at night unbeknown by police force per incumbent authority’s authorization at Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev’s anti-corruption rally on June 4, 2011.

Subsequently apprehending the non-violent and peaceful dissenter  – 73 years old Shri Anna Hazare absconded to undisclosed location prior to imprisonment in Tihar Jail on August 16, 2011 is indeed a grave concern for the oppressed world’s largest democracy.

Furthermore, Congress Party complicity in the Sri Lankan government genocide of ethnic Tamils with logistic assistance to Sri Lanka in the mission,

Accompanied by honoring the Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa as the chief guest at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi despite the Sri Lankan leader’s atrocities in the ethnic cleansing of Tamils in Sri Lanka –

Confirms the Congress Party leadership’s blatant disregard for Indian nationals plight and humanity at large.

In light of these extreme measures and reckless decisions the ruling party has lost legitimacy as a democratic government and the oppositions complacency largely contributed to abuse of power defying citizens’ call for accountability on national issues.

Unless corruption, nepotism and cronyism is uprooted from the political apparatus – the epidemic source in the society,

Indian progress will not reach the vast majority desperate for liberation from economic woes, social injustice and now political oppression.

Shri Anna Hazare’s health is understandably precarious on the 8th consecutive day of fasting and,

The government determination to deny the citizens freedom from corruption through Jan Lokpal bill proves the political establishment has lost credibility to govern the nation founded by Mahatma Gandhi and many venerable leaders’ sacrifices.

Indian citizens and expatriates around the globe ought to be commended for their relentless campaign against corruption and solidarity in the crusade sets precedence to the rest of the world.

Prime Minister Man Mohan Singh and opposition leaders could resolve this national crisis immediately with the acknowledgment of Jan Lokpal bill to address the systemic corruption crippling the society.

Reiterating the urgency to adopt Jan Lokpal bill as the viable solution to curb corruption and resurrect ethical conduct in daily life.

Shri Anna Hazare ending fast is vital for the leader’s survival and national unity.

The government and opposition leaders political fate is largely dependent on their humble outreach to heal the nation’s pain endured in the corruption riddled system by legislating Jan Lokpal bill.

If the leaders at the political helm hesitate in eradicating corruption, then the youth of today to be leaders tomorrow are prepared to bear the torch in the unique rebirth of modern India.

Citizens’ voices will be heard with people power prevailing in national cause.

Shri Anna Hazare’s dream for Jan Lokpal bill could soon be a reality with the united front from all walks of life maintaining momentum until Jan Lokpal bill becomes the formidable act in deterring corruption.

Please join Shri Anna Hazare – the inspirational force committed to universal peace and prosperity.

Jai Hind!

Peace to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Humanitarian Challenge

February 27, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

Recently there was a flurry of criticisms and admonishments for the article titled “His Holiness Dalai Lama in Spotlight,” and the earlier ones related to the,

“Iranian Theocracy cracking down on pro-democracy protestors and the inflammatory rhetoric against Israel.”

Alternatively, the Israeli authorities’ oppression of the Palestinians in Gaza and West Bank.

Likewise, social issues regarding human rights violation –

Self-interest and greed reflected in the globalization v. protectionism including,

The article on the racial attacks against the Indian students and other immigrants in Australia, scorned for the delivery and the condemnation of discriminatory practices.

Hence, it’s important to clarify the difficulties surrounding when addressing social injustice of this enormity.

Needless to emphasize that it’s much easier and less distressing to discuss non-controversial issues related to the economy, environment, travel, food, entertainment…etc.,

However, when the social injustice is concerned,

Whether it’s about the denial of equal rights to the gay community,

Women’s rights,

Burgeoning Health care crisis in the absence of a universal health care or a public option,

Students plight with the rising educational costs,

Growing economic disparity,

Or,

On a serious level – The invasion and occupation of foreign lands through wars,

Nuclear proliferation,

Slighting human rights over economic opportunities,

Double standards in the terrorism definition,

Ignoring environmental warnings…all of which draws immediate attention from the critics representing the specific agenda.

Prior to moving forward with the discussion, it’s necessary to accept the bestowed honor for being compared with the canines by the critics.

As an animal lover, particularly the canines, I consider the comparison – a true compliment.

The reason being, the canines are known for their unconditional love, loyalty and protective instincts towards their owners and the families. They are also well regarded for their intuitive nature.

Due to these extraordinary characteristics, the canines have earned the title as “Man’s best friend.”

Although, sometimes it’s worth posing the question if the man deserves a best friend in a canine.

Similarly, the attacks through innuendoes and nuances seen against the articles on atrocities that were presented with evidence, are intriguing.

Cynicisms vary such as the articles meeting the “critics standards” attributed to the guardian or the ‘Almighty’ out of fear as the case might be and phrased as the ‘Brisk walk.’

While, the so-called ‘inappropriate berating’ of the human misconduct selectively ascribed to the “off-leash” canine, apparently not accustomed to the ‘city lifestyle.’

It beckons the argument on whose side is, these city slickers as the “judges” and “critics” on, when the articles on the website are invariably factual and visuals supported, portraying the systemic degradation of humanity at every level.

If the presentation or the style is the issue, then it’s worth remembering that the art of diplomacy and sophistication is at its best in a dialogue with the virtuous free of vices and that being envy, ego, pride, prejudice and greed.

Moreover, the offenders condemned in these articles are no missionaries or monks in the monasteries.

Instead, they are individuals as well as powerful authorities deliberately and conscientiously engaged in killing and mass murder of their own population, specifically the oppressed minorities.

Economic opportunists causing immense agony and misery for humanity through deceitful and deceptive actions.

It appears that any one daring to highlight the inherent omission of fairness by the corporate owned networks and the political figures’ evasion of responsibility on vital national issues like health care, financial reform, environment are declared ‘reprehensible’ by their representatives.

The double standards in the first amendment act as found in the terrorism definition among the critics are attention worthy.

When the articles on this website raise genuine credibility issue against the major corporations and their political allies, not excluding the foreign governments’ human rights activities, the news outlets are instantaneously used by the mighty and the powerful to warn the legitimate substance or comment as “off-limit,” in a democracy.

On the other hand, the constant vilification of the “progressives,” the “liberals,” anyone defending righteousness and the most favorite of all,

The religion of Islam and its followers…by the Fox news presenters viz. Glenn Beck, Sean Hannity and Bill O’Reilly, not barring the radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh are,

Permitted as ‘free speech’ parlance with an exclusive right to trigger violence, hostility, anger and fear mongering.

Even if the extreme provocation leads to untoward incidents like the death of DR. George Tiller of Wichita, Kansas,

The green jobs advocate Van Jones’ resignation and,

Last but not the least, the recent anti-government groups promoted “terrorist attack” by Joe Stack against the IRS building in Austin, Texas.

Despite the track record, when the White House contemplated to exclude the Fox news in the press conference, the entire news media and the leading news organizations deemed such action as objectionable.

Only if the mainstream media like CNN, Fox News and others had placed the former administration under President George W. Bush and the Vice President Dick Cheney in spotlight with tough questions on the Iraq war, akin to the ones posed to His Holiness Dalai Lama, it could have led to a favorable status quo.

Humanity’s response to the Prophets / Messiahs, the Political leaders and the Peace activists thus far has been,

Lord Jesus Christ crucified.

Prophet Mohammad ( May peace be upon him) diminished in status as an alibi by the pretentious followers of Islam like the terrorist network Al Qaeda and others, Iranian Theocracy and the dictatorial powers in the Middle East.

The Holy Buddhist Temples in Afghanistan desecrated by the Taliban forces.

Holy Islamic sites under siege by the Israeli authorities in the disputed Hebron.

Hindu Temples attacked in Kashmir (Indian and Pakistani side) by the Pakistani fundamentalist terror groups.

President Abraham Lincoln assassinated for ending slavery.

President John F. Kennedy assassinated. President Kennedy was a vocal critic of the secret society and the military industrial complex.

Mahatma Gandhi assassinated for the peaceful effort to unite Hindus and Muslims.

DR. Martin Luther King assassinated for civil rights movement.

Egyptian President Anwar Sadat assassinated for signing the Israel-Egypt peace treaty.

Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin assassinated for the peace initiative and signing the Oslo Accords pertaining to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

On an optimistic note, the universal peace mission might have been successfully thwarted by the anti-peace factions for centuries,

Nevertheless, the reversal is imminent in the immediate future.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Gandhi Jayanti – October 2nd, Mahatma Gandhi’s Birthday

October 2, 2009

By Padmini Arhant

India blessed on the October 2, 1869, with the birth of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, later became ‘The Champion of Peace and the Non-Violence Icon’ for his country and the entire world.

The righteous world leader was a saint rather than a politician. Gandhiji, a reference made in reverence, practiced what he preached to the world – a rare trait and indeed a misnomer in the contemporary politics.

Gandhiji’s presence was timely and poignant in the world that was subject to slavery, holocaust, colonizations and fascism all around. With hopelessness and despair at its peak, the frail yet feisty individual emerged to challenge the odds and beat it on his terms and they were –

War is not in the solution to peace and Violence is not the pathway to justice.

The leader’s ingrained principle and iron-will to lead the world with the unthinkable virtues is the hallmark of the twentieth century politics. The opposing factions regarded Gandhiji’s philosophy as ‘naïve’ and perhaps a far-fetched dream signifying the ignorance riddled environment.

Nevertheless, history is testimony to the leadership’s ingenuity that brought freedom to his beloved country India and paved the path for many other leaders like DR. Martin Luther King Jr., DR. Nelson Mandela…to prevail in the liberty and civil rights mission through his signature policy of ‘peace and non-violence.’

Gandhiji not only won the hearts and minds of his supporters, the leader eventually gained the due respect among his critics and the opposed imperial power as well.

Such magnificent feat by a leader, yet eternally humble and modest enhanced with simplicity as the motto of his life. Gandhiji referred to the people across the globe as ‘God’s children’ and vehemently believed in the power of Universal Love and Peace.

In fact, Ahimsa, which means Non-violence, is a cornerstone of Gandhiji’s freedom movement that led to the ceremonial victory for the nation occupied by the then British Empire for over two hundred years.

The leader dearly loved the world by embracing his fellow citizens as the beautiful flowers from the Eden Garden. Although, Gandhiji expressed grievances against those inflicting immense pain and atrocity, somehow there was never any acrimony towards another human being in his lifetime.

In return, the global community showered genuine praise, love and glorified the leader by honoring him with the unique title of ‘Mahatma Gandhi’, the Superior Soul, which he truly was and remained even after his sad assassination on January 30, 1948. While battling with his life, Gandhiji pleaded with the world to forgive his assassin by referring to the offender as the ‘misguided soul.’

Mahatma Gandhi was also a sworn environmentalist and loved nature as ‘God’s best gift’ to mankind. Gandhiji famously remarked that ‘a nation’s progress should be evaluated on how they treat all living species i.e. plants, animals and humans alike,’ and not on material status.

Mahatma Gandhi legacy is the ideal paradigm for humanity enduring oppression, prejudice and unspeakable crime in the ‘so-called’ modern society.

Mahatma Gandhi is the light of the world, eclipsed in darkness from illusion and ideology.

A great tribute to Mahatma Gandhi essentially the world at large will be the perseverance of peace and non-violence to resolve the present and any future crisis.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Too Good to be True

August 2, 2009

By Padmini Arhant

Throughout history, human reaction to anything unknown, unfamiliar is to cast a shadow of doubt and skepticism reminiscent of “Jesus archetype.”

Human nature is to probe and draw conclusions based on the personal understanding or the lack thereof regardless of the consequences from such action. In the earlier days, it’s a collective effort usually orchestrated by a prominent individual or a group using affluence to influence the mass conception.

When a Jewish born shepherd descended upon earth to spread the message from the celestial supreme being on the birth of a new religion called Christianity adding diversity to the religious sphere, it created pandemonium across the social and religious helm.

The preacher then misconstrued as an impostor denied access to public discourse by the presumptuous lords on the earth holding themselves to the highest moral decorum later proven otherwise among many.

What’s the change between the ancient and modern times in the treatment of presumed paranormal events?

In the olden days, they crucified them and in the modern days they vilify them.

It’s important to relate to the contemporary moment and put the hysteria to rest.

When an individual contributes to public affairs as a citizen journalist through blog posts on sensitive topics, the content evaluated to suit one’s own belief, experience, ideology and personal discretions.

It applies to most publications with fewer exceptions.

Although, the recent battery of charges, innuendoes and insinuations are nothing new considering the dramatic 2008 Presidential campaign saga prompting behind the scenes scrutiny of the nuisance ‘blogger’ in the national political arena touted as an ‘unqualified’ and ‘illiterate’ foreigner, a possible liaison of undesirable elements…i.e.

Padmini Arhant, an American of Indian (India) origin, a Californian resident, the author, editor and publisher of the website www.padminiarhant.com. The unquenchable quest for information on the force behind the voice continues until date.

The probable cause related to the absence of Western education particularly the elite institutions, publications (personal or ghost written) CEO of AIG, BEAR STEARNS, WORLD COM, ENRON synonymous… aside from personal characteristics like ethnicity, religion, language, gender and last but not the least detailing to the appearance of shape, size, no glitz or glamor.

Despite releasing the comprehensive personal profile for Universal view on the cyber space, the propaganda and malicious rumors with incendiary comments such as:

‘Why can’t the blogger preparing the political meal with a hot sauce step up and reveal thyself as the masked Zorro rather than a street thug with a truncheon” – The pleasantry from an overarching local beholding himself to the absolute form of transparency in the personal accusation of someone he is clueless about.

“The Corporate Bashing, Anti- Profit Martian and Communist” – Comment from a network specializing in divisive, polarizing demagoguery, otherwise desperate journalism – (Obviously, the compliment resulting from the ‘Corporate mismanagement of health care and economy’ enlightened on the cited website).

Here is a personal tip to the controversy. How about an alien from Mercury – Reference Greek Mythology?

Perhaps might provide a clue to the trivial pursuit.

Besides the flattery from the predictable irate representatives of the ‘so-called’ civil interests, the spotlight craving divas of politico domain with serious credibility issues had similar sentiments in the spirit of camaraderie.

One of them abandoning the electorate and quitting the national scene in breach of ethical laws not to mention the abuse of power berated ‘Hollywood’ with a special reference to a ‘tiny starlet’ implying the subject likely crawling instead of walking upright arousing further suspicion about the alleged alien pretending to be a homosapien.

Likewise, the other proclaimed to be liberal, suffering from distinctive syndrome parading cable and other major networks to promote the re-publishing of ghost written events refreshed with unattributed work from others, remarked about the current ‘ethnic minority’ phase apart from psychoanalyzing the blogger with a possible native accent and therefore not in the public eye. After being disappointed with the false prediction, the diva’s turnaround was the accent is perhaps ‘put on’ improvised, hence not authentic. In all likelihood, not an American.

In addition, the same entity did not fall short of providing the unauthorized blogger’s details on Google map through their official on-line publication political website as a revelation to the national and international community at large. Again linking without prior consent or knowledge. Further, the blogger’s campaign donation to Obama candidacy highlighted as a matter of concern during the election while ignoring the AIG executives’ personal donations to political campaigns listed on the www.padminiarhant.com.

So much for responsible journalism!

The identity politics attack on new voices by the insecure selective media and certain press corps including the on-line publications as mentioned above, signify emulation arising from acute shortage of integrity and ethics.

In light of the ethno phobia environment, it’s poignant to flashback a historical political event involving the then reigning Colonial power of Great Britain and the previously agricultural India represented by the frail bespectacled, yet resilient individual named M.K.Gandhi

During the colonial occupation of India, the Prime Minister of Great Britain, Mr. Winston Churchill, often remembered by the present Western political figures in a positive frame of mind, constantly addressed the representative of the poor and the impoverished millions not only in the Indian soil but around the world, M.K.Gandhi as –

The “Half Naked Fakir” – the Urdu translation of Fakir is beggar.

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was the “half naked beggar’ for the colonialists at that time. Since Gandhiji became the force to reckon with and a menace to the occupiers, he travelled to Britain not by ‘Air Force One’ equivalent, but instead sailed across the treacherous seas for weeks and months at a time. The mocked Indian was exemplary in the interpretation of the Colonial Power rule of law in their native language on their turf.

How did Great Britain receive Gandhiji?

Gandhiji frequently summoned and never seated by the over-lauded Winston Churchill, unabashedly denigrating the native of the occupied land as a ‘Half Naked Beggar.’

What a gargantuan army would not have attained, the iron-willed ‘half naked beggar’ eventually prevailed and achieved a monumental victory against the mighty Imperial power that came crumbling down and forced to quit India with the tail between their legs.

How did he do it?

As the pioneer of Peace and Non-violence, he grieved with the holocaust victims and at the same time bemoaned for the Palestinian rights and homeland. Gandhi as a true humanitarian brought the oppressive apartheid in South Africa to international focus and called for worldwide condemnation amidst Colonial era. He was the first international volunteer to picket against the Dutch Africans regime in South Africa.

Did he discriminate against the people of the Colonial nation, The Great Britain?

On the contrary, Gandhiji was instrumental in improving the conditions in terms of better wages for the ‘all white’ cotton mill workers in Manchester, England by threatening to boycott goods produced at the expense of the poor in England.

Gandhiji went on to become the inspiration and mentor for DR. Martin Luther King, Jr., and DR. Nelson Mandela committed towards freedom, equal rights and opportunities.

Gandhiji did not earn the title Mahatma (the superior soul, also the noble soul) for nothing.

Tragically, today some political figures, corporations, certain journalists, reporters in the press, media and airwaves propagate hatred; provoke thoughts aimed at the President of the United States as well as others selflessly dedicating their entire time towards national progress and humanitarian cause.

The present motto for even few established cable networks is –

Pandering to some by slandering others.

This article would be incomplete without stating the latest bizarre attempt to disparage the office of the Presidency by insisting that President Barack Obama is allegedly a foreigner confirmed through the clairvoyant’s crystal ball per the self-proclaimed prophets in the media posturing to speak nothing but the ‘Gospel’ Truth.

Unfortunately, these agents of divide and diminish policies suffer from selective amnesia as not long ago they were trying to amend the consitution to allow the Austrian born Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Republican Presidential candidate in the foreseeable future. As if, it’s not enough that the State of California’s progress held hostage, they wanted enlarged nationally.

Surely, events change according to the political dynamics for the insular groups shackled within the prism of narrow mind.

Another phenomenal fact pertaining to a foreigner embraced worldwide specifically in the United States is Lord Jesus, born in Bethlehem, a Palestinian City in the central West Bank.

Lord Jesus neither born in the United States of America, nor ever visited the continent.
Nevertheless, millions throng to the holy sons’ place of worship.

I hope that there will not be a time when Jesus’ birth certificate demanded to approve the worship of the savior and the true son of God, here in the United States, since the Lord is the ruler of the kingdom.

Indeed, Too good to be True.

The epitome of discriminatory practices clearly a reflection among the segment unable to distinguish illusion from reality and constantly strive to prove truth as false and falsehood an embodiment of truth.

Too much emphasis on the perishable body and very little concentration on the immortal soul,
only if one can find it within.

Illusion stems from ignorance and ignorance feeds hypocrisy.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant
(Author, Editor and Publisher of www.padminiarhant.com)

International Politics – India’s General Elections

May 7, 2009

The world’s largest democracy goes to the polls to elect a Parliamentary government that would govern the nation regarded as the other emerging economic power in Asia.  India being the multilingual, multi-ethnic and diverse society is complex in political nature because of the multi-political factions representing a wide range of social, economic, political and environmental issues.

Further, such complexity diminishes the prospects for any major party to form a government.  In the absence of absolute majority, the winning party often forced to forge alliance with their enemy’s enemy and earn the title Coalition government resembling the democratic outcome in Israel, Germany and Australia to name a few around the world.

Indian election like any other electoral process is not devoid of controversies and the highly decorated stage performances by political figures.  In addition, the involvement of celebrities as surrogates is all too familiar for political enthusiasts.  The interesting feature of the Indian election is the massive participation of the rural and the impoverished segment of the population prominently left behind in the rising economic prosperity prevalent among the society’s middle class.  Obviously, the widening gap between the haves and the have-nots is the topic for many contenders to deal with during any political debates and public appearances.

Do the electorate buy what the political candidates and the representatives offer while seeking their votes?

Even though, the literacy rate among the rural and the poor electorate may not meet the international standard, one should never underestimate the political knowledge of the struggling class in the society.  Unfortunately, the plight of this populace also exploited for political reasons by many aspiring rookie and experienced political rivals alike, in concurrence with the regular politics found anywhere.

India has come a long way and dealt with great many challenges since independence.  In the past decade, the tremendous economic and social progress is transparent in the lower income and middle class population. The achievements in science and technology has been instrumental in the impressive economic growth despite the politics related to outsourcing and the growing , well educated youth population form a valuable asset in strengthening the present and future economic security.

The country is experiencing revolutionary demographic shifts among the rural and urban population creating opportunities for continuous productivity.  Nevertheless, prosperity accompanied by problems is a common phenomenon for developing nations in a competitive global economy.   With the steady economic growth, the inflationary rate requires constant monitoring in correlation with the free market demand and supply factor.  Besides, the sustainable population growth strategy would ease the burden on urban development, industrial expansion and ultimately the environmental goals.

The rural population has been disadvantaged in the globalization trend directly affecting the farming community and served a platform for the ruling party to win the previous election.  Most states prioritized commercial sector over agriculture and abandoned the farmers forcing many to commit suicide, while others moved to industrial towns and urban areas in search of jobs.

Meanwhile, the aggressive promotion of chemical fertilizers and pesticides by the multinational corporations proved harmful to the crops apart from being an environmental hazard.  Organic food producers are in strife due to produce grown with chemical fertilizers arriving from the Chinese border and sold in the Indian fruit and vegetable markets at an unbeatable price.  Above that, the global warming has taken toll with extreme weather conditions varying from severe drought to flooding caused by monsoon rain damaging the crops and vegetation.

Social and economic disparities are visibly widespread among the poorest in both rural and urban parts of the country.  It is important for the new government to address abject poverty, disease, lack of education, medical facilities and provide better living conditions starting with the supply of pure drinking water and decent dwellings.

There is an urgent requirement for investments in infrastructure and environmental friendly energy programs that would minimize oil dependency while promoting efficient transportation. It would be beneficial to the overall economy.

In the geopolitical sphere, India is grappling with tensions all around the borders particularly with the nuclear neighbor Pakistan and the rising instability within that nation from Taliban insurgency and other terror networks.  The Indian side of Kashmir is relatively calm and reflected in the recent democratic state election.

On the northern side, the political turmoil in Nepal is a matter of concern due to the successful influence of China on the existing power, The Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist). Moreover, China’s illegal invasion and occupation of Tibet has led to the fleeing of Tibetan refugees to India.   India has responded well to the humanitarian call in accepting and providing asylum to the Tibetan population.

Across the Indian Ocean, the escalating ethnic cleansing by Sri Lankan government is a contentious issue for the people in TamilNadu, South India.

Amidst the election excitement, the political candidates capitalized on the Mumbai terror attack and were extravagant in the divisive politics with some of them exclusively targeting the Muslim population in the society, regardless of India being the second largest Muslim nation in the world.

If the fundamentalists in BJP and other political parties indulge in polarization, it would be detrimental for national security upon their election.  Likewise, the incumbent Congress Party must refrain from aiding Sri Lankan government in their hostility and persecution of the ethnic Tamil population to settle past political scores.  Such action could similarly lead to the disintegration of the society with a significant representation of Tamils in the southern Indian state of Tamilnadu.

Indian politics deserve a breath of fresh air with young intellectuals in leadership role to guide the nation utilizing modern and innovative concepts in all aspects.  Perhaps, it’s time for the Indian society to renounce dynasty, nepotism and seniority based politics.

India sought freedom on the premise of non-violence and relentless peace process initiated by the founding father and leader Mahatma Gandhi. Any effort by the political factions to dismantle the unity and peace foundation would be disastrous for the country with enormous potential.  India is a secular nation and remains so now and in the future.

Every vote counts and matter in a democracy.  The citizens of democratic nations privileged with the power to elect a government of the people, for the people and by the people should never discard the exclusive right.

On that note, I wish the world’s largest democracy everlasting peace, progress and prosperity.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant