Posted on: July 8, 2008 - 11:16 pm
Prateeksha, Mumbai July 8, 2008 11:56 pm
The television in my van is on as I reach the studios and there is heightened excitement in the news reports coming through every channel. Anchors heatedly talk of the withdrawal of support by the Left from the Congress, of the fresh alliances taking place, of the instability of the party in power, of whether the Government will fall or not, of whether the numbers will be sufficient to keep the party in power. Politicians of different hues coming on to the medium each with their own comments and theories. Who will rule, how they will rule, will the equation at the center change.
Discussions, opinions, statements - all flying through the air waves with intense rapidity. Each viewpoint strong and impressive. What will happen to the leadership of the country. Will there be continuity, will there be change.
And in this enlightened cacophony, my mind travels to two of my father’s poems, which I have reproduced for your benefit to read and come to your own conclusions.
They are written in blank verse; a style my father felt strongly against when he first came across it. But with time and circumstance accepted it and became a very valuable contributor. He often referred to them as ‘akavita’. The complete absence of meter and graph in them were in his mind incomprehensible. But when he joined the system, his own depiction of the version was exemplary. As can be observed in its style and presentation.
19.1.66 - is a moment soon after the sudden death of Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri in Tashkent, where he had gone for a joint conference with Pakistan to bring the war to an amicable end.
The poet stops to talk to ‘bangar’ women workers employed to lay fresh tar on the roads of Delhi. Explains the situation in the country after the death of the Prime Minister, informs her that there is great debate and excitement in the politics of the country, as to who will be the next Prime Minister. With so much at stake and so much happening, he is alarmed that the woman worker is unaffected by the goings on in the city.
And when he questions her of her involvement in the change in the country that is so imminent, the worker merely turns to him and cross questions.
” Saheb ! Can you change my employer, sir ? He is a very ruth less person. He is making life difficult for me. Change him if you can Saheb.” !!
And so saying she turns away. Back to the steel drums filled with melted tar, spreading it on the road with a spade, to labor the entire day so she can earn a few rupees to feed her little child lying wrapped by the side of the road, drugged by a little ‘afeem’ into forced sleep, so the hungry child will not ask for food.
In all the political drama and debate, there is little interest in the common man. This common man is least bothered who will emerge the winner, who will become Prime Minister and rule the country. This common man is bothered only about his immediate and disgusting employer and his tomorrow’s meal. He is least concerned with the political machinations going on. Because they will not be able to solve the fate of his leader, the employer, or the food required to feed the new born.
A satire of immense depth.
BHARAT KE SAAP is another short blank verse, dripping with sarcasm and wit.
The National Library of the State has through great labor and discussion decided to bring out a book on the snakes of India. It has deployed a large team of writers, opened special offices, designated teams of learned men to gather material for this elegantly brought out book.
But there are questions being raised says the poet. In this poverty ridden poor State why would the Government want to bring out this expensive book, printed on the finest of paper.
In the cultural and traditional history of the country, the snake has played an important role, say the officials. The more the public gets knowledged of the importance, the better, he concludes. Do not our mythologies and scriptures talk of the entire universe sitting on the hood of the great Sesh Naag.
Reason enough for the book to be brought out.
The poet concludes in saying that, you may disagree with my assessment of the situation but here it is -
I have read the book from A to Z, but not found any mention of the most poisonous snakes of the nation !!
Tomorrow another day and the debates and discussions will differ. But what shall not change is the conditions of the poor in our own backyard. In our own country -
Amitabh Bachchan
July 9th, 2008 at 1:59 am
Sir,
If each one of changed ourselves, wouldn’t this be a better world!
And if we could just change one person positively…
Manish Patwari
Boston
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 2:08 am
Dear Amitji,
I hope the preparations of the Unforgettable tour is going on a full swing.
Hoping to see you at Toronto.
All the best.
Subramanian Iyer
Toronto Canada
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 2:10 am
What a great piece of poetry. we all must realize the pain and suffering of poor women & children and take up a joint responsibility.
Joy Kumar
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 2:15 am
Dear Mr Bachchan
Simply Brilliant!!!!!!!!!!
How are you keeping? I hope all well at your end….
Love to you and me
Ekkie xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 2:19 am
Laughing Out Loud !!
Bharat ke sabse jyada jeheereele saapon ka koi bhee Jikar nahin hai !!
Touche !!!!!
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 2:27 am
very well said SIR.
these leaders are fighting over if we can secure a Nuc deal with US or not, why not mull over the fact that if the govt can provide atleast one times meal (leave alone do waqt ki roti) to the poorest of poor in India. shame on these so called leaders but still Mera Bharat Mahan!
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 2:27 am
Dear Mr. B.,
This came home to me in a very personal way, the story of the woman with the bad employer, whose great concern was her day-to-day life. The minutiae of politics mean nothing to people who have a daily problem that won’t go away.
I was born in a time of deep economic depression in the U.S. From before I was born, and onward until his death, my mother worked for a member of Congress on the Democratic side of the aisle. For his entire career in Congress, he was concerned with the poor and the emerging middle class. Eventually he authored, and obtained passage through Congress, with two Senators, an bill called the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, controlling the number of hours a worker could be forced to work without overtime pay and the minimum wage he could be paid for his work, and eliminating children from the workforce. It changed the whole face of the country, that one piece of legislation. The middle class in America was essentially forged from those laws.
As I’ve watched your early movies and seen the gross imbalances between the powerful and powerless (naturally exaggerated in the films so as to emphasize the point), it’s been strange to me that these things still exist. But until I was about five years old, they existed in my country as well. To some extent they will never be eradicated here. But their causes are not legal any longer, as they were before, and the war goes on against them.
Change is inevitable, and perhaps it will bring with it a negation of the final line in your blog today. Perhaps the conditions of the poor in your own backyard, in your own country will change. Please God some day it will happen.
Aloha from Hawaii …
Love, Dorothy
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 2:30 am
Dear Sir,
Incidentaly, I was in Mumbai with my family when your father passed away.
probabaly, it was between 18th jan to 20th jan 2003.
We realized the grim atmosphere while standing on the confectionary shop across the road, in front of your home Prateeksha. We paid our homage to the great poet of our country from there only.
We were destined to be there at the such an emotional moment of your life.
I love the poetry written by Kavi Bachchan….!!!
I like the lines ” Bair karate Mandir Maszid…Mail karati Madhu Shala…!!!
Kavi Bachchan has written poetry almost on all aspects of the Life….!!
With Respect, Love and Faith…!!!!
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 2:30 am
Not sure how should I address such a big celebrity from Bollywood,
Its we who believe in in society where Everyone is equal but some people are MORE EQUAL than others, We the Middle Class people we fight with these “Bangar” to pay them less but make a huge hue and cry when it comes to our own salary increments why such a difference in our attitude.
If we really want to improve the condition of poor in our country and eliminate poverty then only option we are left with is EDUCATION. Increase the education cess or impose an education tax on each and every tax payer and govt should take complete control of education till HSC. No private schools, No difference in education standards all really equal.
For these “Bharat Ke Saanp” I think we are the only one who have made them more poisonous we are the one who have given them the strength by feeding then be it on Naag-pachami (Elections)or any other Occasions.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 2:31 am
Hello Mr. Bachchan,
Certain things can’t and ought not be measured, like love & respect. And they can’t be put in words as well, if they are true. Needless to say, I am one of your numerous fans and how big, neither I know nor would like to elaborate on that.
I love and respect almost all of the Hindi Poets of last and prior centuries. And poems like these are the reasons why I love Shri Harivansh Rai Bachchan. There couldn’t have a better timing of posting these ‘Muktaka’ poems on your blog. Time changes but what a Poet shows remains ‘Saswat’. Thanks for posting them.
This is my first posting on your blog. However, I have been visiting it almost daily. Liked most of your writings. You promised that sometime you give your account of legends like Dilip Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, Mr Rafi etc. Eagerly waiting to read your first hand experience of working with them, any interesting incidents etc. Take care,
As I said one of your numerous fans,
Suraj
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 2:34 am
hehe, sorry you are not fully right, it’s changing, our own country doesn’t have that number of poors what we have before 10 year, yes i am not saying about poor in economicaly, there are different kind of wealths, number of educated people are growing, there is not any trace of those communicable deseases etc.Yes he said it AKAVITA, that time there were a decipline/gramar/style.Those are not fit to that, they say it akavita, but it was there at that time, but now in contemporary poets are saying it abstract poems, it’s minimum use of words for maximum expressions.
Yes, i have watched news and also watched Mrs Jaya Bachchan there , She may be loosing her eye power a bit, i think you also are using that lil redish gugles as a power lense?hmm.. looking like govt. is there to continue now, it is always so nice to vote after five year, isn’t it?
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 2:43 am
How wearily familiar your father’s biting commentaries. In our country too, the rhetorics bombard — promises of change, of brighter tomorrows, of new beginnings, of future hope. Meanwhile, in one of the wealthiest nations on earth, once bustling towns lie idle in the gaunt shadow of industrial skeletons, frail elderly must choose between medicines and food, mothers send their children to bed with empty bellies, families abandon long dreamed of homes, and seekers of the gold-paved streets remain imprisoned in menial degradation. Politicians come and go, but nothing changes — not even the rhetoric.
A thousand thanks also for the images of yesterday — the infinity of ocean against a backdrop of mortality, the fragility of fame. The name of Amitabh Bachchan will not drop soundlessly from immediate history: the legend will prevail for several lifetimes — the performances preserved in diverse media, the scholarly references an indelible part of film studies. Much of the current work, particularly, transcends the vagaries of transitory tastes and time. Remember, though, why it is that, after half a millennium, the performances of Christopher Beeston, Edward Alleyne, and Richard Burbage are barely mentioned while the thoughts of Ben Jonson, Christopher Marlowe, and Will Shakespere pervade our world…….THEY WROTE THEM DOWN!!!!
Particularly touching was one response about an oft-unmentioned downside to the extended family — the absence of peer companionship as the younger generations busy about their independent lives. In our culture, many senior citizens, even those with loving families, live (as I do) in specially designated communities. Neighbors frequently share the same cultural framework, peers are always willing to listen, children and grandchildren are welcomed for visits (and much fussed over), group activities are there for the choosing, passings are mourned by the whole community, and caring ‘welfare checks’ are provided for those who need them. Yes, it is against tradition (we have no widows’ ashrams here), but demographics are shifting and so must attitudes. Equally sad is the plight of elderly performers — a pension scheme through a trustworthy professional body might indeed meet some needs (provided investment does not fall prey to corruption or lack of business acumen) and perhaps some specialized facilities (akin to the Actor’s Home, Lillian Booth, Brinsworth House…… ).
Last evening, for the first time ever, I heard you speak outside a script — your hands and eyes as expressive as your voice. Despite only a smattering of Hindi (and even less of the pure language), my linguist’s ear could hear the beauty of your speech.
Apologies for the continually delayed nonvisceral reactions to your blogs — my own work (more rhetorical manipulation than basic correction) demands substantial brainpower, and alas, the neurons fire less rapidly than in youth:-).
You are always in my heart.
“Above our life we love a steadfast friend.” — Christopher Marlowe
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 2:47 am
Great poems!
It is an apt metaphor for the present political situation. I too happen to see the Indian news .There were lot of speculation on this situation involving Amar Singh and Anil Ambani .Luckily they have not involved you yet.
The new generation is the hope for our poor citizens. If they want, they can help the poor in many ways than one. There are many young Indian students and professionals left US to help the poor in the remote villages of India. Remember “Each one teach one”?
Politicians are busy holding their seats. (Cliché). I wonder who is the most poisonous snake in the nation ?
Thank you for translating the poems.
Thanks once again for the post.
Take care.
sumi
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 2:57 am
Mr. Bachchan,
Great post. Its on the mark as well. It is so true how politicians the world over don’t really care two whits about the common man or the poor. All politicians care about is winning and making sure their agendas and political group will the one standing in charge. In all of these numerous political power plays the poor and even the middle class are overlooked completely. Politicians rarely if ever are able to come through on all of their huge promises to help society at large. Politicians just care about being right and making sure their agendas and policies are ruling the day.
Politicians get could careless about inflation, low wages, poverty, war, health care, food crises, global warming, etc. which are the REAL issues that are facing the world and that need attention ASAP. All people in every society just want their governments and politicians to be honest and to actually do something good for the poor and the have nots in society. Until politicians actually focus on the real issues like poverty, health care, oil, war, inflation, etc. in society then nothing of much worth will come out of these so called politicians and all of their rhetoric. Hopefully these will begin to change for their better soon with coming elections in USA and other countries.
Best wishes!!
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 2:57 am
hello sir feeling good to see you write again with out reading again i am writing you so that i am thae first one to write so you read it .as iam studying for exam will not be able to write long.but few words we all sisters and my 4 year old daughter adores you and keep on writing we feel connected to you. love you so much thats all rakhi UK
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 3:06 am
Wow - the first “akavita” and the imagery it brings is gut-wrenching. Where can I get a complete copy of your father’s work? It would be great if you would consider writing an autobiography.
Thank you and best wishes,
Rahul
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 3:07 am
Being away from my country for so many years.. the only thing that I fear of going back is, to see people in poverty. A person under a critical heart attack is asked which drug he would prefer, the one that costs Rs 27,000 or Rs 50,000. I certainly would not want to be caught in that kind of a situation. More than 50 years of independence, are we trully independent? Who will give us independence from these corrupt politicians?
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 3:09 am
hello again felling so good after reading your pitaje;s kavitaye .thanku for shareing with us rakhi UK
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 3:11 am
dear Mr. AB
i am sure its a lovely poem n i would love to read it but alas! i dont know how to read hindi as i m not an indian…i do understand hindi though…would it be possible for a hindi written in english alphabets(m sure this sounds funny!!)version of this poem??i rele do want to read it!!thanx alot!
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 3:19 am
प्रिय अमित जी
बहुत ही सटीक रचनायें सागर में से छांट के लाये हैं , और मुझे खुशी है की आप हिन्दी की रचनाओं को बहुत ही शालीन तरह से परोस रहे हैं | दोनों ही रचनायों से “A satire of immense depth.” का बोध परिलक्षित है| जैसा की अपने कहा है |
लेकिन सर अब आप जैसा व्यक्तित्व इतना निराशावादी वाक्य लिखेगा “Tomorrow another day and the debates and discussions will differ. But what shall not change is the conditions of the poor in our own backyard. In our own country ” तो लोग कोशिश करना भी बंद कर देंगे कुछ करने की !! आपके पिताजी की ही कुछ पंकियों से अपनी बात समाप्त करता हूँ ..
“क्या हवाएं थी की उजड़ा प्यार का वह आशियाना
कुछ न आया काम तेरा शोर करना ,गुल मचाना
नाश की उन शक्तियों के साथ चलता ज़ोर किसका
किंतु ऐ निर्माण के प्रतिनिधि,तुझे होगा बताना
जो बसे हैं वे उजड़ते हैं प्रकृति के जड़ नियम से
पर किसी उजडे हुए हो फ़िर बसना कब मना है?
है अँधेरी रत पर दीवा जलाना कब मना है ? “
बस सर अब एक ब्लॉग आप हिन्दी में लिख ही दीजिये | अब इसे जिद्द ही समझिये लेकिन अब इतना तो हक हमारा बनता ही है !!
दिव्य प्रकाश दुबे
Symbiosis Institute of business management ,pune
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 3:20 am
Please keep the poems coming….they are simply fantabulous….awesome. Love it. Hats of to Harivanshrai bacchan!
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 3:24 am
Thank you! I am so moved by the thought of the newborn and millions like him that have to be given “afeem” so the mother does not hear his hungry cries. With all the bickering and struggle for power, these are the people that suffer the most. They are non existant to the powers that be, unless it is votes time than their will be afeem, sharab and maybe somer chawal brought in so their votes can be bought. Like your father put it so elquontely, they don’t care who is in power. (I tried searching the net so I could read that poem in english but couldn’t find anything. Is there a book available that is not translated but the hindi is typed in english?
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 3:34 am
Shelley called poets “unacknowledged legislators”. How fortunate to be born to one and to learn so much from one..
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 3:50 am
GOOD
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 3:52 am
Dear Amitji,
Very true, yeh sub khel hau kursi ka and nobody cares about poor and common man thats the tragedy of our nation but I am sure situation will change people like you and we can make difference. Hum honge kamayab ek din, ek din…
With regards,
Vinay
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 3:59 am
to
respected Mr Bachchan,
you sound like our poetry teacher, explaining the lines…, but its necessary, not everyone reads Hindi. these poems, especially the first one reminds me of one in Bengali, written in much lighter note, with meters, rhyming words and all. no point writing it, but it says something like ‘ why scold the child.because he has broken the tel ka dibba. you all are grown ups and you have broken our bharat in halves…’. it is true , nothing will change, terrorisms, deaths, poverty,…but tell me, if everyone was rich, well furnished with necessities, then will they work…i am not in favour of poverty, but in a block where everyone is rich, the kamwali bai definitely belongs to some other block. no one from the rich block is gonna work…if everyone gets enough education in a nation like ours, if everyone becomes doctor, engineers, consultants, factory workers,…small shop owners, then no one will till the land, no one will wash clothes…as far as i can think, a farmer..if is well settled in life will give best o education to children. will they then come back to till the land…when money will not remain an issue, social respect will be the issue. or else very one needs to turn Gandhian. it is true that i want poverty to not be an issue to a common man but i guess there are too many people too many grievances and it seems ages that in our country we had any leader. you are associated with politics, why do you think leaders of parties are not good enough, is it so impossible to remain honest. to think about people, to not to reap benefits..
more or less a useless letter
do you answer them yourself or even go through them? you don’t even have time…but this blogging is good. makes you suddenly so accessible…
thanking you
shaeri datta
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 4:02 am
Beautiful poems. At first I did not like the style too and I had to read them twice to get used to it.
Amitji, your translations are pretty good too
Regards
Dinesh
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 4:11 am
Hello Sir
Many a times, I have restrained myself from commenting on your blog. Reason; I feel delighted and motivated just by reading, and think that there is no point to just say “good job”, which is pretty much true all the time. I am not a very big Hindi movie fan, but I am great fan of Hindi literature, which I believe is hugely under circulated and under published. I admired you as an actor, but there are so many of them. Few movies of yours have left an impression, but there are others too. I mean every industry has icons, and yes we appreciate them from various perspectives.
Then came your blog. Oh! you changed perception. I read initial posts, full of frustration towards media, sometimes venomous remarks, like sad little life for some journalist, sometimes sharing something very motivating. But I notice an evolving philosophical, spiritual and above all a passionate blog.
Today you published two items from your father. I am so delighted, so glad to read these two, specially in today’s context. How true? You said a lot without saying so. Thank You.
I am touched with your kind gesture toward nurse Julie.
कहते है कि दान ऐसे देना चाहिए कि दाएं हाथ से दो तो बायें को पता न लगे
मेमोरियल फंड बनाना जरूरी तो नहीं
धन्यवाद
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 4:30 am
Can completely identify with the thought process. Curious about your last statement .. is that a conclusion you have arrived at or is it a moment of disillusionment ? Appreciate the translation / explanation of the poems for the folks whose command over Hindi is not enough to read it..
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 4:36 am
An Old Story:
The Ant works hard in the withering heat all summer building its house and
laying up supplies for the winter.
The Grasshopper thinks the Ant is a fool and laughs & dances & plays the
summer away.
Come winter, the Ant is warm and well fed. The Grasshopper has no food or
shelter so he dies out in the cold.
Indian Version:
The Ant works hard in the withering heat all summer building its house and
laying up supplies for the winter.
The Grasshopper thinks the Ant’s a fool and laughs & dances & plays the
summer away.
Come winter, the shivering Grasshopper calls a press conference and
demands to know why the Ant should be allowed to be warm and well fed
while others are cold and starving.
NDTV, BBC, CNN show up to provide pictures of the shivering Grasshopper
next to a video of the Ant in his comfortable home with a table filled
with food.
The World is stunned by the sharp contrast. How can this be that this poor
Grasshopper is allowed to suffer so?
Arundhati Roy stages a demonstration in front of the Ant’s house.
Medha Patkar goes on a fast along with other Grasshoppers demanding that
Grasshoppers be relocated to warmer climates during winter .
Mayawati states this as `injustice’ done on Minorities.
Amnesty International and Koffi Annan criticize the Indian Government for
not upholding the fundamental rights of the Grasshopper.
The Internet is flooded with online petitions seeking support to the
Grasshopper (many promising Heaven and Everlasting Peace for prompt
support as against the wrath of God for non-compliance).
Opposition MPs stage a walkout. Left parties call for ‘Bengal Bandh’ in
West Bengal and Kerala demanding a Judicial Enquiry.
CPM in Kerala immediately passes a law preventing Ants from working hard
in the heat so as to bring about equality of poverty among Ants and
Grasshoppers.
Lalu Prasad allocates one free coach to Grasshoppers on all Indian Railway
Trains, aptly named as the ‘Grasshopper Rath’.
Finally, the Judicial Committee drafts the ‘ Prevention of Terrorism
Against Grasshoppers Act’ [POTAGA], with effect from the beginning of the
winter.
Arjun Singh makes ‘Special Reservation ‘ for Grasshoppers in Educational
Institutions & in Government Services.
The Ant is fined for failing to comply with POTAGA and having nothing left
to pay his retroactive taxes,it’s home is confiscated by the Government
and handed over to the Grasshopper in a ceremony covered by NDTV.
Arundhati Roy calls it ‘ A Triumph of Justice’.
Lalu calls it ‘Socialistic Justice ‘.
CPM calls it the ‘ Revolutionary Resurgence of the Downtrodden ‘
Koffi Annan invites the Grasshopper to address the UN General Assembly.
Many years later…
The Ant has since migrated to the US and set up a multi-billion dollar
company in Silicon Valley,
100s of Grasshoppers still die of starvation despite reservation somewhere
in India,
.
..AND
As a result of loosing lot of hard working Ants and feeding the
grasshoppers,
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
India is still a developing country…!!!
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 4:40 am
well said. good to see your views on a very critical topic that everyone of us cannot neglect.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 4:49 am
Dear Amit Ji
Thank you for the lovely posting. Truly mesmerising, the simplicity of the language but the unfathomable depth, only a great soul can see and express this in everyday walks of life. I was four when this was written, yet can relate so well today. I guess most of us ignore the subtle but meaningful event of daily lives in the “Bhed Chaal”
I was very weak in Hindi as a language, not that I am any better now. Reminds me of my school days when on hot summer afternoons my mother would be tending to her garden and my hindi teacher (Mrs. Arora) used to return home on the same route, she would pause to tell my mother as how I scored “shoonya” in the spell test that day. Not a good evening that followed. Could never get the “maatras” correct. Mrs Arora predicted – Sajit Saheb aap ka naiya doob raha hai, mujhe lagta hai ki app fail ho kar rickshaw chaalaoge. Bless her! never happened that way. Later in life she gifted me a copy of “Madhushaala”
Warm Regards
Sarge
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 4:53 am
Hey Mr. Bachchan,
My dad and I are big fans of yours. We really admire that you take time to write 2 ur fans.
My name is Chevarra, I’m here sitting with my dad and writing to you, I am 12 years old, living in South Africa, Durban, I hear you are coming on tour, can’t wait!
We attended your last show at Kings Park, which was Now or Never, I was small back then but I really enjoyed the show!
Please be sure to include some of your old movie dialogues in a special segment!
I really enjoyed your movies, Sarkar Raaj and Bhoothnath. Waiting to see more of you.
Thanks,
Chevarra Hansraj (Eden College Durban, Grade 7, chevarrahansraj@gmail.com)
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 5:09 am
Exactly Sir! Common man is only bothered and works for about two square meals. As you mentioned he is not bothered about the politics and leader/s. I have red most of your blogs. My question to you is when you are so sensitive about the needs of the common man why don’t you do something for them. You have amazing fan following (to lead), money and connections (resources). The three basic needs for changing the society are with you. Above all you have a clean character. God gives one life to every one. In this life you have seen and experienced most of the material things. I am no one to command/suggest/advise you on this. But I request you to give a thought to it. You have all the qualities to make a positive difference to the society in a big way. Kindly think of it.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 5:10 am
Hi Amitji,thankyou so much for sharing this with us…love and regards gurpreet
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 5:11 am
Dear Sir,
Thanks for sharing these 2 poignant poems of Dr Harivansh Rai. I believe these poems hold good for any under developed and developing nations in the world (including India) even today. All that the poor and under privilidged care for is 2 sqaure meals and that too is not guaranteed to them! Humans have ALWAYS AND SHALL CONTINUE to exploit those inferior to them. Even amongst the ‘ADVANCED’ CLASSES IN ALL SOCIETIES ACROSS THE GLOBE, people take pleasure in suppressing/ exploiting/ harming those in inferior positions. Darwin’s eternal law of SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST continues to hold good in all STRATA’s of life!
Sometimes I wonder if WE WILL EVER EVOLVE COMPLETELY AS MATURE HUMANS? Or will we always carry the STIGMA of being referred to as ‘THE MOST ADVANCED PRIMATES’! It is true that, with time, today we truly possess the most advanced brain in the ‘ANIMAL KINGDOM’ but when shall we TRULY MATURE TO THE LEVEL THAT IS PREACHED IN MEDITATION AND HOLY SCRIPTURES? I strongly feel that MEDIA will play a pivotal role in this transformation. Technology continues to play its crucial role in improving our lives on a daily basis. But then Technology is only a TOOL developed by our BRAINS! It is now upto The MEDIA (NEWS CHANNELS, LITERATURE, NEWSPAPERS, MAGAZINES, MOVIES, THEATRE etc) to use technology to continuously EDUCATE people so that WE CAN MATURE TO THAT LEVEL! Off course, it is a VERY LONG journey but then it has already taken us more than 30,000 years of EVOLUTION to come to this STATE! What a pity if technology were to be used MORE for the wrong purposes and bring us back to SQUARE ONE instead of taking us FORWARD IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION!
For unless we MATURE COMPLETELY, the DREAMLAND ‘SHANGRI-LA’ shall forever remain a MYTH, a MIRAGE!
Warm regards and all the best today, tomorrow and always!
Anurag.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 5:11 am
Hi Amitji,thankyou so much for sharing this with us…it was a pleasure reading them love and regards gurpreet
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 5:36 am
Dear Amitji
Times change. So does every other thing. After reading the poems, it makes me wonder, does anything really change?
What is the difference between the people who sought/controlled power then and the ones today? Both deeply immersed in getting/retaining the power. Where is the genuine concern for the normal man and his pretty normal needs?
Why have we been like this and why are we still continuing to be the same? Hmmm.
Anand
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 5:36 am
Destiny is destined. Nobody can change anybody’s destiny. Poor will become poorer and the rich will become richer. That is what democracy is all about. Mind you India is a largest democracy. How can you except to change the conditions of poor. But the rule does not apply to politicians. Politicians can change their destinies. Whichever party they belong. And poor people help them to change by voting. Still the conditions of the poor remain the same. What anyone can do about it?—jaya
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 5:45 am
wonderful!!
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 5:54 am
So true! There is a beautiful story about a lady walking on a beach picking up star fishes on the sand and throwing them back into the sea, and when asked if it is going to make any difference, she replies, it made a difference to that particular star fish she threw back into the sea. As human beings all we can do is try, help whom we can, and pray that the politicians will WAKE UP ONE DAY.
( I know I am asking for a miracle)
I am also going to post with a new name as I notice there are more than one with the name Lakshmi.
Lakshmi Jag.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 6:07 am
Dear Sir,
I’ve been following your blog from quite a long time. I must admit you are very powerful with words. I also like different topics you discuss. I am settled in Melbourne so don’t have access to Indian news channels or different issues. Its very good to read different articles and your thoughts on all topics which keeps me busy thinking most of the time..
I appreciate your interaction despite of such a busy schedule and hope to get to know you more through this medium.
Good luck and wishes..
Many thanks
Nency
PS: Your today’s blog is a sad truth for normal people in india whose life goes around taking care of family and basic earnings.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 6:08 am
Morning Amitabh !
The thought of feeding ‘afeem’ to an infant is just too difficult to bear with. Poverty has to be abolished and all of us have a role to play in it. I was discussing something about this, the other day with a few friends from India.
Let’s say each of us contributes 1 rupee a day from our salary/pocket money or whatever. That totals upto Rs 365 per year per person. Multiply this by 500 million people(since the other half of India cannot afford to contribute). You’d get a whopping Rs 182500 million just within 1 year.
Just imagine the kind of poverty elimination initiatives that this amount can successfully cover ! With proper planning & governance, I’m sure this can be easily executed and over a few years, poverty will only be confined to the history books in India.The BIG question is how and where do we start from?
With this sort of money, atleast a mother can feed her baby with a few drops of milk , rather than ‘afeem’.
I’m sure there’s lots of charity organisations that have made forays into initiatives such as the above, but surely there’s scope for more.
Sorry if I’ve gone astray , but reading your write up just rekindled some thoughts from within ! Thanks for that.
Have a nice day !
Regards,
Jagz, Sydney Australia
Big B Yahoo Group
Amitabh is the best
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 6:11 am
Amit ji , It is a realistic recollection . It truely reflects the
present . keep it up. Goodluck. Bye
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 6:13 am
dear Amitji,
such a beautiful poetry . And it still has same interpretation in today’s day &age for a “common man”.
Ashesh
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 6:21 am
I am a daily visitor to your blog and it is a routine of life of a man that nature has made him alike that he can not see beyond.In the poem written by your father is a reality what concern ONE has got with out side world,while he has no time to think off any thing except his surroundings.GOVERNMENTS MAY CHANGE & KINGS MAY CHANGE BUT HIS ROUTINE WILL REMAIN THE SAME. WISH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY ALL THE BEST .
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 6:36 am
Dear Mr. Bachchan,
Namaste. i will not be able to give my comments on internal political matters of course….but generally speaking usually politics ignores the common man and his problems…at any place in the world, if the common man had been the main concern, he would have been spared lots of problems.
thanks for for translating the poem for non Hindi readers, and for sharing your views.
with love,
Rasha Zayed.
BigB yahoo group.
Cairo, Egypt.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 7:00 am
I loved the poems, especially the first one. And more, I loved the free verse. I write in free verse too and feel it allows my expression to move on unbridled. When I stall and try to fit words into a certain meter, I lose the passion with which I want to express myself.
Please keep acquainting us with the less known poems of your father.
Love
Anshu
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 7:00 am
Hello Sir!
Read the poem .. it sent shivers to my spine .. Heart rate going up ..do we need cardio .. we re the fittest na…n in the world
Jai Hind!
Thanks
Regards
Siddharth
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 7:01 am
Mahatma Gandhi and India Today
What a nation of hypocrites we are
We call him the Father of the Nation
Occasionally our leaders pay
lip service to him.
However in real life
we practice and do the exact opposite
of what this great man lived and died for
Truth,
Nonviolence,
Simplicity,
Selfless service
Love of all mankind.
The Mahatma must be tossing
and turning in his grave all the time:
to see all those moral lepers
masquerading as saviors of people
pushing the country down the abyss
of deceit, treachery and evil
Will India ever see another Mahatma
Who would come and stop this rot
and put this country on the right track again
Otherwise the way we are going
We are surely doomed as a nation
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 7:11 am
Dear Amitji,
Could you please pass this message on to Abhishek. We are a group of medical educators discussing distance learning. And the new Idea ad on this theme was really loved by everybody. What an idea!
Love to both of you,
Anshu
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 7:13 am
Respected Amitji,
Today you have really touch my hart by putting the poem of your great father,which so relevant even after 42yers.
I also feel our common citizen of India will suffer until he can’t understand our
political leaders and Todays Democretic systems.Most of them can’t understand that
most of political leaders are using them.On this burning issue I have expressed my feeling by Yahoo Answer forum yesterday in apoem “Is it real Democracy”,It is my immense surprise that tye have remove that saying it is “Violent”,reason it was in Hindi !Now I am posting at here for you and our Indian citizens(please don’t mind at ASHUDDIYA of Hindi because I am not perfect in typing,sorry for that0:–
ये केसा लोकतंत्र है,आती हमको शर्म है ,
जनता चुनती मगर कहा चुन पाती है ,
वही मिट्टी वही ककर ,हीरा कहा चुन पाती है ,
बात करे गाँधी ,लोकनायक की ,राह वोह नही चलते है ,
मोका आने पर ,सबकुछ छोड़ ,कुर्शी पाने को लपकते है .
ये केसा लोकतंत्र है ,आती हमको शर्म है ,
उन्पद को छोड़ो ,पढ़े -लिखे भी कहा समज पाए है ,
जात -पात ,धर्म ,स्वार्थ में बटे ,इनको कहा समज पाए है ,
चेहरे बदलते है ,वेश बदलते है ,मगर चाल वही चलते है ,
समज -समज कर भी हम ,इनको कहा बदलते है ,
ये केसा …………………….
लाभ का पद हो या हो ख़ुद के भत्तो का बिल ,
कर देते है शनों में पास उसे ,सभी आपस में मिल !!!
महिला आरक्षण हो या हो सूचना का अधिकार का बिल ,
अपनी -अपनी सभी चलते है ,रह जाता है बस पास होने से बिल ,
बाहर दिखे सभी अलग -अलग ,अंडर एक -मत हो जाते है ,
केसे बदलते है इनके चेहरे ,असली सुरत हम देख न पते है i.
ये केसा लोकतंत्र है …………….
पहले से है बटे हुए ,ये महापुरुष और बाट ते जाते है,
शिक्षा -रोजगार पर है अधिकार सभी का,आरक्षण ये करवाते है,
रिश्ता करो रोटी -बेटी का ,फिर जात -पात मिट जाएगी ,
ऐसा करो पहले अपने घर से तुम ,ये सच्ची करनी कह्लालेगी ,
ख़ुद रहे राजा जेसे ,रिश्ता करे रजवाडो में ,
अपनी पर आन पड़े तो ,फिकवा दे ये इन्हे पिच्वारो में.
ये केसा …………………………………
प्रकर्ति ने दी है व्यवस्था ,हम सभी को एकसार किया ,
दिए दो -दो हाथ -पाव ,आख कान और एक दिल ,खून सभी का लाल किया ,
ठगने को भोले लोगो को ,हिंदू -मुस्लिम -सिख - इशाई में बात दिया ,
बाटते बाटते और कितना बटेगे हम ,क्या हमने कभी इस पर गोंर किया ,
राजा -रानी हो गए व्होह ,हमने एक -दूजे को मार दिया .
ये केसा ……………………….
अदला -बदली करते है कुर्शी की ,
न आचार है न विचार है ,गुलामी है बस कुर्शी की ,
आज है मेरी कल तेरी हो जाएगी ,परसों फिर मेरी हो जाएगी ,
जनता देती रहेगी सिर्फ़ वोट ,जीत तो बस तेरी -मेरी ही होगी
लोकतंत्र है अधिकार तुमारा ,अब इन कुटिलो को कब समजा ओगे ,
सही चुनो ,चुनकर न भूल झाओ ,नही तो बहुत पछताओगे .
ये केसा …………..
न जाने कब वो दिन आएगा ,
उन्प्ध ही नही पढ़ा -लिखा भी समजदार हो जाएगा ,
नही चलेगा जात -पात और धर्म का खोखला नारा ,
हर कुटिल चेहरा बेनकाब होकर ,कचरे का पात्र हा जाएगा ,
न मिलेगी कुर्शी जोड़ -तोड़ और वंशावली से ,हखदार ही हख पायेगा ,
जनता जाग उठेगी जब ,तभी ,एक सच्चा लोकतंत्र बन पायेगा .
-Sudan
With regards,
Madhusudan
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 7:23 am
It is 42 years since Harvanshraiji wrote that poem .One hopes things have improved for the poor,unprivileged masses of India since then ,despite the politicians and their destructive policies.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 7:31 am
Mr. Bachchan
Will you promise that you would never stop writing this Blog?
Come what may.
Subhash Kaura
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 7:32 am
Hello Sir,
WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON THE NUCLEAR DEAL ? DO YOU FIND FISHY THAT SUDDENLY SP JOINED CONGRESS TILL NOW THEY WERE STRONGLY OPPOSING THEM AND ALSO THE DEAL . IT IS ALL FISHY ?
LOVE RENU
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 7:46 am
Namashkar Amitabhji,
Very nice interpretation and presentation about the situation in the country, but still is it not our right to chose right person hoping for some change in situation?. I feel a person who does not vote has no right to blame Government one should do his responsibilities and then he holds moral right to ask others to do the same.
I do agree there would not be any sudden change in situation of common man but yet the economy and living status of people has increased tremendously in last 60 years and all cant be without Governance.Well if BJP had ruled instead of Congress then today India would have been the strongest country in world.
Lastly,, I feel Government does affect everyone directly or indirectly positively(If BJP rules) negatively(if Congress rules)..
With regards,
Sandeep
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 7:50 am
i know many in my village donot know who is prime minister of country
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 7:50 am
harivanshji ki akavitaon ko padh kar man harshit aur utkrisht hua. rajniti par unki tippani jitni tab ke liye vastavik thi, utni hi aaj bhi hai.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 7:57 am
looking from where I sit , India is getting a brand name for sure if not improving the lot of the bottom.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 8:10 am
Dear Sir,
This is heart wrenching. I do not know if you are aware that there is a video of yourself on you tube where you are reading your father’s poem “Madhushala”. I believe it is an occassion which is held every year in honour of Shri Harivanshrai Bachchan. Indeed “Madhushala” is beyond doubt a beautiful script, but the way you have sung it, adds more charm.
Have a good day. Lots of love and best wishes,
Tina
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 8:22 am
Touched…. Thanks for sharing such Poem…
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 8:30 am
Dear Mr. Bachchan:
For someone, who has “Neeid Ka Nirman Phir Phir” as the name of his blog and has “Koshish Karne Waalon Ki Haar Nahin Hoti” as the catchline of another page of his, it was slightly disappointing for me to read Shri Hariwanshrai Bachchanji’s poetry in the ‘blank verse’. Maybe, I too am a victim of “liberal fanaticism” - which while talking of complete freedom to all individuals and expressions, often finds it difficult to give respect to all the forms of expression; largely because of ‘fanatically classifying’” things / expressions as liberal or non-liberal.
However, your description of his early aversion to the style and other details surrounding the ’switch’ to the style made me open up a little more.
One more thing: I’m not sure if you follow Formula 1 racing or not (I generally don’t!), but if you do, you would be delighted to know that the great F1 Champion Lewis Hamilton has said, in an interview with NDTV, that the last movie that he had seen was … GURU!
Keep fascinating us with your writing. The only ‘harm’ I see in your writing is that you just might force old-time (fanatical) admirers of yours (like yours truly) to end up placing Amitabh Bachchan, the writer, on a higher pedestal than Big B, the ACTOR-Star.
Best Regards,
Anshuman Rawat
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 8:39 am
Dear Amitaabh Jee :
In response to your writing onday 75 of July 8, 2008, I write these few lines. Hope you like this Kavithaa
yurs
vd das
===================================================================
AAGE KISAKAA RAAJ HOGAA?
Kyoon main jaanoo, kisakaa raaj hogaa ab, kyaa fark padathaa hai jaankar
Kaoun hai manthri aour kaoun hai raaja, kyaa fark padathaa hai jaanakar
Mahaathmaa ne kabhee kahaa thaa, ho na tab thak har ek baraabar
Tab thak main pahanoongaa yah ghutane thak kee dhothi barobar
Rahoonga main bhee ek aam gareeb kee tarah, khaaoongaa, peeoongaa bhee
Main safar karoongaa bhee nimna darje maen ek gareeb kee tarah bhee
Par kaoun yaad karathaa hai baapu ko aaj , ‘gar din na ho 2 aktoobar
Yaa phir ho 31 jaanvaree, kaoun chalathaa hai unke kahane ke mutaabiq
Koyee Aaye, koyee jaaye, kuch bhee badalanewala naheen hai
Aaj bhee wahee boz dhothaa hoon, kal bhee wahee boz dhonaa hai
Kyoon main jaanoo, kisakaa raaj hogaa ab, kyaa fark padathaa hai jaankar
Kaoun hai manthri aour kaoun hai raaja, kyaa fark padathaa hai jaanakar
‘Daasoham’ july 9, 2008, 8;40 hrs, ist
===================================================================
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 8:45 am
Amitji,
I am from Bengal and I cannot read Hindi although thanks to hindi films I can understand the language. I was unable to read your father’s poems but read the ‘gist explanation’ provided by you and wondered hmmm.. are any translations available in english or bengali?
Regards,
and best wishes..
take care of your health
Bye Bye..
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 9:13 am
DEAR SIR
HOW ARE YOU SIR?HOW WAS YOUR DAY?TAKE CARE.
BEST WISHES AND WARM REGARDS
HIMMAT SINGH GREWAL
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 9:15 am
Mr. Bachchan
Many people now wait for your blog with the same eagerness and anticipation as they do for the morning news paper and their cup of tea.
Hope you will continue to give it to them each day.
Subhash Kaura
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 9:25 am
Sir, You have raised a very important matter .The condition of the poor is not changing because both the leaders and the people of our country are neither honest nor sincere.It is character which leads a country to the path of progress,which we are losing.We have to think over it seriously. Jayshree.usa.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 9:26 am
Dear Amit ji,
I read your father’s work above supplied by you.
First of all a lot of thanks for providing this opportunity and your comments on the latest instability of central government.
I think , now a days the politics became a source of personal profit and power rather than public profit. Every now a then there is a new controversy in Indian politics. Indian politics is all about plus and minus.
Your father’s work is a true reflex of this game
While reading these it reminded me a newer age author Shri Harishankar Parsai and his “Kataksh” on the social issues.
You said it right that whichever government be in India nothing is going to be change for the poor.
And most of all i liked the line “Pustak bhar mein bharat bhar ke sabse jyada zahrile sapon ka kahin jikra nahin hai”.
And most of us know that who is this “Most Venomous Snake”.
again a lot of thanks….
regards
Pappu kumar
Nalconagar, Angul
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 9:27 am
Amitji.
You seem to be oversensitive to criticism.As long as u r happy doing your bit , why shd you bother about what others say. And dont make an effort to show that u care for the downtrodden. If u care u care. Who cares !Your critics will feel that they have been successful in touching that raw spot. Why give them that much chance to gloat?
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 9:31 am
SirG,
Kalam aur vyanga (Pen and Satire) are the two most important weapons of an artist in a poet.
Some day some one will read them. What it matters if only you are much ahead of your time, much ahead of what common man thinks. That makes you a better poet since the poet is the only one who can raise your voice of reality to the world around.
Saap - Phuphkaroon lekin katoo mat!!
Your self crowned CHELA,
Vinod Agarwal (Finished a 2 year full time production course in Business of Films and Television at Whistling Woods International. Looking for an opening as Assistant -Producer Motion Pictures )
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 9:48 am
I am Loving It..
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 9:48 am
Dear Amit Ji
I wait to read your post as i used to wait to read morning newspaper ,many people will agree to my point.
Great thought Amit ji was put across by your father and equaly great way and time when you brought this to our notice and also have explained us….THANK YOU.
Love
Renusurya
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 9:49 am
Dear Amit Ji
I wait to read your post every morning without fail.
Great thought Amit ji was put across by your father and equaly great way and time when you brought this to our notice and also have explained us….THANK YOU.
Love
Renusurya
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 9:50 am
Hi Sir
If u can please put the lines of Agnipath..
Thanks
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 9:51 am
Wow uncle
This is so amazingly true, because when the government was falling apart I was bothered by only my work and my father, who is not resting enough. Born the same year as you do, does not listen to me. I was trying to manage both home and office during day time yesterday and with some work going on at home, it was madness.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 9:55 am
Dear Mr Amitabh Bachchan
Well firstly this is like a dream come true for me if you actually read this.I use to write you letters when i was 2 years old, so you can understand…
I have always read that if Fountainhead was to be made in Hindi you should be the Roark for years and
Now the point. To look for That Hero who was performing on screen fearless, called spade for a spade, whould cry for honesty it does not seems correct that he has to in real life say ” I am a farmer” thats my occupation and that is why I own land in UP. It broke my heart as well as hearts of million.
You are No farmer and You are No farmer in need . Even if you wanted land then I must say that the God you worship has bestowed a lot on you, more than you would have had earned as a farmer . That God also says - Be Honest before any other mantras and symbolic worship .How could you do that?
Please be that HERO I am still love with and tell me that all this that the media has written is wrong.
Thanking You
Sonali Roy
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 9:58 am
Amitji,
Pardon me for saying this, but you have one such poisonous snake in your backyard. Amar Singh! You may consider this as your personal matter but when your fans love you for your good qualities they have every reason to question you for the bad example set by you and people around you. Amar Singh declares that he is part of your family.
He is currently busy batting for Anil Ambani (another poisonous snake imo). Same goes for Subroto Roy. Crony politician works for crony industrialist! Nothing new there. But what are you dong between these guys?
Needless to add, you may consider not responding to me or may drop me from the list of your fans. I shall suffer that to justify the unjustifiable.
Man ka ho to achcha,
Na ho to aur bhi achcha!
yours truly,
Vicky
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 10:09 am
Hello Amit ji, I am Veerandra Pratap Singh.How are you.I agree you that in our country poor will be poor and politics will carry on.
I heard somedays before that your company ABCL and Reliance Entertainmet are going to make some films . This will be very well for Hindi cinema.When will this project begin.
Regards-Veerandra
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 10:24 am
YOUR SPECS …
Your specs frame at Jaane Tu .. premiere ……. u looked too old in it . It may be my personal view but I always appreciate u for ur good looks….
regds
Niayati
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 10:31 am
Hey Mr. Bachchan,
Some of the zahreele nags are your friends…Amar Singh, Mulayam, Bal T and many more…What you have to say about them?
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 10:32 am
Some people have commented on your friendship with Amar Singh, Anil Ambani, Subroto Roy among others. I’m reminded of a dialogue uttered by the master villain Prem chopra in one of his films
“Jis ghar mein chandan ka ped hoga
vahaan saanpon ka aana jaana laga hi rahega”
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 10:36 am
The Nuclear Deal - The Unclear Part
Finally after dragging its feet for months under the fear of falling down, the Manmohan Singh government has put an end to the agonizing suspense, the long wait and the big question mark that has been hanging around the Nuclear Deal.
It is really strange that both the ruling party and the Left parties never thought that there was any need to approach and consult the common people of this country, who have elected them to power, to educate them about the deal and to explain their party’s point of view on it.
It is equally surprising that these parties never thought of going for a nation wide Referendum to know what the citizens of this country think and want about such an important and intricate issue. What stopped them form doing so?
In a democratic set up that should the first option of choice.
I hope in the end the Left parties would realize that it is futile to carry on their fight for the good of the common people using an outdated and failed philosophy which has badly failed all over the world and has been rejected even by its founder nations. There is no use carrying this dead burden around their necks for ever. They must conduct a reality check - this is 2008 and not 1918.
Subhash Kaura
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 10:50 am
Response to Vicky T : who refers Amar Singh and Anil Ambani as poisonous snakes!
Vicky - who are YOU to judge?
Do you know them? Have you EVER met them personally? It seems your perception is entirely through media.
Politicians - are they ALL bad? Just Bad? Businessmen/Industrialists are bad for country?
Vicky, grow up.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 11:07 am
७६ बेब्लॉग में महा कवि की काल जई रचनाओं के अंश को प्रस्तुत करके आपने वर्तमान में चल रहे घटना क्रम का जो वर्णन किया वह स्वागतेय है .सच मुच परिवर्तन तो हो रहे… पर सच्चे परिवर्तन अभी भी बहुत दूर हैं आम इंसान की समस्यायें जस की तस् हैं, कवि की रचना ने १९६६ में जो इशारा किया था वह अमल आज भी उतना ही महत्व पूर्ण है ,पर शायद हम लोगो ने जिम्मेदारी को सही अर्थों से नहीं निभाया.सुधार की आशा रखी जा सकती है ,कवि के दिल में सबके उत्थान का जो स्वपन है बह पूरा किया जा सकता है………………… नागेश कुमार
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 11:16 am
I will write again- what amazing words I’m privileged to read- have not read your post at all- am going back to relish the words.Safed panney par saaf likhai.
Thank you, thank you.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 11:16 am
hi sir,
i am big fan of urs.But ,I want to share something about my point of view about your film.i think u have done 50% of urs job. u have performed 50% of urs calibare because u didn’t get that kind of director except sanjay lila bansali.i liked urs role in nishabd.becoz u take the challange.that should be the spirit of every actor.u desereved to be best.i think , there many good roles are waiting for u.we r also waiting to see u…………….best of luck..have a good day.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 11:18 am
RESPECTED SIR: SAIRAM. PRANAMS.
We long to read your messages, especially thought-provoking, inspiring poems of your Great Dad relevant to changing situations. Please continue to give them to your audience; we like them.
I raised a point in one of my comments may be it went unnoticed - again I repeat - WHY IS THAT REGIONAL CINEMA ESPECIALLY FROM SOUTH - TAMIL, MALAYALAM, TELUGU & KANNADA DO NOT GET THE SAME WEIGHTAGE AND RECOGNITION AS HINDI CINEMA GETS? AND WHY IS THAT WHEN INDIAN CINEMA IS TALKED ABOUT, IT ONLY RECOGNISES ONLY HINDI CINEMA? BIAS?
THANKS, PRANAMS AND PRAYERS
V. RAMASWAMY-66 & SON PADMANAB SRIDHAR-35
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 11:23 am
Hi sir,
22 year old I am ……an addition into the so called YOUth club of India……..and in your words the more confident lot of India…..!!!!
About our take on the politics….!
i guess though it is improper to generalise my views as that of the whole YOUTH brigade,,,,,but i am sure,,, being a student of a premier technological institute,,,,,i guess i can safely say the view point of the majority in our age group:
I guess with jobs procurement being relatively easy,,,atleast in the dumb industry of services read IT, KPO and more worse BPO…….!!!!
all we are concerned of earning more and more money ,,,,comparing our pay package with our mates….,,,,changing GF/BF……looking wor an MBA degreee and the oppurtunity to work in a MNC ,,,,,particulary out of india ,,,,away from our home,,,away from our parents……least concerned about their loneliness…..and now can be said vice versa too…!!!!
we are the lot more concerned of reading reviews of the latest film,music,gadgets….rather than the political scenario of india…..!!
so i guess there is no difference in the women depicted in the poem above and us,,,rather than that our aspirations is not of the meal next day,,,but of buying the latest LAPTOP,,,,,,…..!!!!
This service industry is no help to INDIA other than playing its part in increasing the inflation and…..more ,,,,,,, wasting the talent(huge) pool of young INDIA in menial jobs…!!!!
Ankit.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 11:25 am
Amitji,
Good Day!
You are right nothing changes for the poor.
You tired your best as MP but “others “pulled u down.
But I think things are better than before because of fear of being exposed by media.
Do you get time to watch other indian language films?
I hope u have someone to help in selecting the good ones.
have a gr8 day!
jai
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 11:42 am
Dear Amitji,
The poems are timeless as in today’s time also the above two poems are very relevant. Our People should be politically aware of things happening around them. Because whether we like or not - any change that has to come to our Nation can come only through politicians, as they are at the helm of the affair. So the quality of leadership we elect through elections have to be good.In India politics determines economics, otherwise why should parties oppose nuclear deal, which is indeed very good for our country.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 11:46 am
Dear Sir,
Salaam & Adaab,
I have read the entire poem about the lal ghagra kali kurti and it depicts the finest example of satire and simplicity.
The truth is that women have always worked very very hard to feed their family and have gone thru a lot to feed their new borns and the rest of the family.
People reasonably settled in life ONLY understand when it come to them or when (ALLAH NA KARE) they have to go thru some of the difficulties faced by these “BANGAR” women or any women.
JAB KHUD PER BEETTI HAI TO HI SAHI SE SAMAJH ME AATI HAI BAAT……..SAMAJHDAAR WO HAI JO FORUN DEKH KER YA SUNN KER SAMAJH JAAYE.
How cruel or harsh the world can be at times….I mean the way it is said….the infant who could be from few days old to less than two years of age is given afeem for a forced sleep.
Today, by the grace of Allah we cannot even imagine in our wildest imagination that our child can goto bed hungry but then on the other hand a world does exist where millions of children go to bed empty stomach and new borns cannot be fed by their mums because mothers cannot produce milk because they them selves are deprived of basic necessities of life.
Sir, I think that I am the most lucky person on earth who has MASHALLAH every thing that a person needs to be happy in life and I canot thank ALLAH enough for being so kind to me and my family.
Best part is that a middle class or a upper middle class person can enjoy everything and I mean almost everything that life has to offer but the richest people cannot afford to do that and in that sence they are unlucky because they cannot have panipuri on the roadside standing next to theley waala or kulfi from the footpath.
On the other hand and middle class or a upper middle class person can go on a cruise and can afford to lunch at Bur Al Arab or emirates Palace hotel or at Jumeira beach or travel to see places in different parts of the world.
But coming back to where i started from and the thruth is that Women have gone to greater depths and heights to feed their new borns and their young ones.
The world has become very complex in nature and has lost its simplicity.
Khuda Hafiz
Aamir - Bhopal
Dammam
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 11:46 am
RESPECTED AMITJI.
NAMASTE.
WHAT A RELEVANT SELECTION OF POEMS FROM BABUJI,S TREASURE. JUST LIKE TULSI DAS JI SAID “KOU NRIP HOYE, HUMAU KA HANI.”
DUE TO THE LACK OF CHARACTER AND COMMITMENT IN THE CURRENT LOT OF POLITICIANS, ONE IS SO APPREHENSIVE ABOUT VOTING ALSO. SOMEONE I KNOW DOESNOT VOTE SAYING” WHY HAVE THE DISCREDIT OF ELECTING THE WRONG ONE”. ALL ARE ALIKE AND AFTER POWER.
THE DECENT AND STRAIGHT ONES CAN NOT SURVIVE IN THE CESS POOL. MAKING COMPROMISES IS AGAIN A TORTURE. WHAT DOES ONE DO?
PRAYERS TO ALMIGHTY FOR “SUKH, SMRIDDHI, SHANTI AND ABOVE ALL SUD-BUDDHI” FOR OUR COUNTRYMAN AND MANKIND..
YOUR WRITE-UPS ENHANCE TRP OF TV AND CIRCULATION OF NATIONAL PAPERS. TOO BAD YOU ARE NOT CHARGING THEM ANYTHING. WHO BOTHERED FOR BLOGGING TILL YOU JOINED? YOU BETTER START A COMPANY LIKE PMG OF SUNIL GAVASKAR TO HANDLE YOUR WRITE-UPS. BABUJI WILL BLESS YOUR CAREER AS A WRITER TOO.
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS PLEASURE OF READING YOU.
HOPE ALL BETTER AT HOME. OUR BEST WISHES AS ALWAYS. REGARDS.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 11:51 am
Sir,
Hope ur fine there. take care. Your this blog really has vry dep meaning and your father, a great poet, did meam very deep in his poems.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 11:56 am
DEAR AMITJI.
NAMASKAR.
EACH POST IS A GEM. GREAT TREASURE. PLEASE KEEP IT UP. THE CURRENT POLITICAL SITUATION CAN BE SUMMED UP IN ONE LINE………
“IF WE DO NOT STAND FOR SOMETHING WE MAY FALL FOR ANYTHING”
BEST WISHES AND REGARDS.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 11:58 am
Dear Mr. Bachchan,
Babuji’s “Akavita” are published in your blog at an appropriate time.
Great satire!
Regards,
Naishadh Vyas
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 12:00 pm
Tomorrow another day and the debates and discussions will differ. But what shall not change is the conditions of the poor in our own backyard. In our own country -
…………kitna sahi aur sach kaha hai APNE AMIT JI…….KASH KI AISA SUB SOCHNE LUG JAYEIN TO HINDUSTAN KA NAKSHA HI KUCH AUR HOTA AJ…….
Ameeron Ki To Har Din Holi,
Aur Har Raat Diwali Hoti Hai.
Aur Garibon Ke Tyohar Me,
Wahi Do Waqt Ki Gaali Hoti Hai
Tyoharon Me Ab Nahi Hota,
Hai Dilon Ka Mel.
Ab To Ye Bankar Reh Gaya Hai,
Bas Paison Ka Khel.
Tyoharon Me Sab Khoob,
Chak Kar Khate-Peete Hain.
Kabhi Jhopriyon Me Jaa Kar,
Dekho,Gareeb Kaise Jeete Hain.
Tum To Maje Me Jeete Ho,
Khel Kar Rangon Ki Holi.
Kabhi Unko Bhi Roko,
Jo Banate Khoon Ki Rangoli.
Kyun Paison Ko Barbaad Karte Ho,
Khareed Ka Tum Patakhe.
Kuch Paise Unko De Do,Jinki,
Dekh Nahi Pati Aankhen.
Har Pooja Me Khareede Hue,
Na Jaane Kitne Kapde Dhare Hain.
Deen Gareeb Bechare,
Anchahe Bhi Nange Khare Hain.
Gareebon Se Poocho Kitni,
Mushkil Se Wo Jiye Hain.
Aur Kuch Gharon Me,
Jalte Ghee Ke Diye Hain.
Tyohar Unke Liye Nahi,
Jo Aish Me Jeete Hain.
Paani Me Mila-Milakar,
Jo Log Sharaab Peete Hain.
Tyohar Unke Liye Hote Hain,
Jinhe Khuda Ne Khushiyan Di Kam.
Ye Unke Liye Hain Ghayal,
Jinki Saal Bhar Aankhen Rehti Nam.
chahe jo marzi ho hamare hindustan me…..chahe koi bhi ho sarkar…..par gareeb bechara vahin rehne wala hai jahan hai…….akhir kiya kya hai enn netaon ne gareebon ke liye?vo aj bhi ussi jhuggi me rehta hai…aur namak ke sath roti khata hai……!!!
amit ji aapne aj ye boht hi acha topic rakha hai….really m impressed……aj kitne log hain jo en bechare gareebon ke baare me sochte hain…..???
GOD BLESS U AMIT JI.
Regards,
neha.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 12:02 pm
Dear Amitabh-ji,
I am Rani (keralite) just 25, born and borught up completely here in dubai. We NRIs(splly those raised compltly out of India) hardly got an idea or knowledge about the political situations in India. Here most of us are just brought up with luxuries of life and are least aware or interested in the happenings and living conditions in India. But surely we do get to know about them through newspapers and channels.
From my knowledge, I have hardly heard of any politician or any party dedicated compltly for the welfare of people or country. Mostly they do is fight to get into power and set a secured base for their own well being and welfare. I do not deny that developments are happening but at a very low pace.
But i also have the opinion that we cannot just blame the politicians for that. It is basically the people’s mentality. We all are so lazy and expect others to do things for us.
Whenever I have come for vacation, I have seen the workers or helpers are so demanding and we cannot even raise our voice, if they do somethign silly. all they say is “who are you to ask us. this is india, we have the right for anything and everything” . People taking everything for granted.
But when they fly abroad hunting for work, they are so willing to do any kind of work. They are so dedicated, get their pay, just save and live for a proper survival. ther is no strike, no abusive langauge used. They will not litter the road. so on and so forth.
So i conclude, unless we dont change our own mentality and think of prospering our basic label of “developing country or pooor country” wont chnge. Similarly, buy publishing or not publishing a book, poverty is also not going to be removed.
Sir, i would appreciate if you have any valuable comments on this.
Thank you and have a great day.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 12:05 pm
Hi Amit Sir…
hmmm.. very true!!!!!!
:(
do the ppl sitting in the highest order ever think what the common man must be thinking or what problem he must be facing in daily basis!!! he they cant think about them then why would the common man be so interested who sits on the highest post if he cant make a change in common man’s living!!!!
Lov u..
Amit pandey
hyd
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 12:06 pm
Hi all,
This comment is not addressed to Mr. Bachchan, but to certain Muslim gentlemen whose comments I read and they made me very, very sad. Being of the same faith (and it makes me sad to be sharing anything with them) I believe I’d rather I reply than anyone else. Here is my reply to you:
Gentleman no.1, do you believe that you need to raise questions on behalf of Mr. Salman Khan on something that is so personal to the people involved because you share his faith? Do you really believe that you know everything about these poeple’s personal matter to comment so rudely?
Gentleman no.2, why repeat the nonsense that the media feeds us, especially on religion (Refer: you question to Mr. Bachchan about dicriminating against his muslim colleagues and other absolutely nonsensical and far-fetched accusations)? Don’t we have enough problems, enough unrest?
To both of you, why are you not good, decent, confident humans first and then Muslims? A religion is a personal way of life of every individual, not a banner to flaunt. No religion needs us to fight for it, least of all ours.
And to everyone else - Mr. Bachchan has taken an initiative to communicate with all of us, leaving himself open to all kinds of feedback - good and bad. Lets appreciate this and take care of what we write. Does saying negative things and hurting people make us bigger, braver, stronger? Will abusing this platform make anyone feel good? It won’t. He takes pains to write about matters of substance - each one of them. So let us appreciate this artist for his achievements and share our comments with him - comments that come straight from the heart of people who have watched him perform for decades.
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 12:15 pm
Dear Mr. B.,
I realize on rereading the message I left today that it may have sounded condescending and arrogant, coming from someone who knows little about your country, as though I were holding the U.S. up as an political object lesson. I hope you realize it was not intended that way. It was just a bit of information that I thought might be enlightening about the political and economic changes in the U.S. in the early part of the 20th century.
Please forgive me if I was offensive in any way.
I mistakenly said these changes began about the time I was five. I was actually ten when the law went into effect in 1938.
An interesting side note about that bill: Shirley Temple mentions in her autobiography that she was at the White House the day it was signed. She and her parents were invited to tea there, as they were vacationing in the area, and President Roosevelt called her into his office for a chat, and mentioned that he had just signed a bill that had her name in it. She was surprised … a ten-year-old child star, at having her name on a bill … and he explained that the Shirley Temple Amendment was written into the bill to allow child actors such as herself to perform, under certain qualifying conditions.
Aloha from Hawaii …
Love, Dorothy
Report Abuse
July 9th, 2008 at 12:20 pm
आदरणीय भाईसाहब,
सादर प्रणाम,
डाक्टर बच्च