Save our Rivers

As part of our visit to Uttranchal on a recent holiday, we went to Gangotri. This is the place where the holy river Ganga has a temple dedicated to Her. The actual origination of Ganga is in a place called Gaumukh which is about 18kms trek from this Gangotri.

From the point of origin till she reaches the plains at Haridwar, the Ganga is clean, pure and fresh. She is a delight to watch as she gushes onwards like a young damsel full of vigour and cheerful spirit. She supports life all along the way and the entire area surrounding her path is fertile, lush green and heavenly.

Unfortunately, people along the path have not understood that the responsibility to keep her clean is in their hands. All through the plains, people use her as a dumping ground for their waste and convert a beautiful river into a virtual gutter. Towns dump their drainage into her and factories dump their effluents without even treating it. People even throw half burnt dead bodies into her. The increased use of chemicals in our every day lives (eg. tooth paste, wasing soap, cleaning soap etc.) eventually finds its way into our rivers.

All of these leads to a the precious and much venerated river becoming dirty and unfit for consumption. The natural and clean mineral rich river becomes like an ordinary drain within a few hundred kilometers of existence in the plains. All this leads to serious damage to vegetation and marine life in and around the river. What a pity that no one has the courage or the commitment to change this!!

The story is no different for the other revered rivers like the Yamuna which resembles a brackish foul smelling drain by the time she reaches Delhi which not too far away from her origin.

Despite huge amounts of money being spent in cleaning the Ganga, nothing much is really happening. There is an urgent need for people to realise the criticality of this and take steps to prevent the pollution of the Ganga. Strong political will coupled with social movement is needed to bring the Ganga back to her days of glory. People living along her banks should be vigilant to prevent any foreign matter being dumped into her.

The good news is that if we can prevent fresh dumping, the rivers have a self cleansing mechanism and, in a short time, we can see a rejuvenated river enhancing the quality of health and life all around.

Plant, Nurture and Protect trees

I was on a holiday recently in Uttrakhand - a state in India famous for its majestic mountain ranges forming part of the mighty Himalayas. The name Himalayas brings into mind pictures of blue mountains thick with crisp cool air, lush green forests, fresh cool water springs, streams and rivers and snow clad peaks. In parts this is true. One does get to see all this and more.

Yet, over the years, I have seen a steady decline of the green cover. This is partly due to the local populace using the timber for building houses, heating homes etc. I also saw an alarming trend of people cutting and burning trees to create terrace farms to cultivate crops. The other thing I noticed was the devastation to the trees caused by the process of road construction. While there are many who contribute to this decline, the work of increasing green cover is sadly left to nature.

Such a destruction of green belt leads to havoc to the environment. Trees support the entire chain of life starting from tiny insects to larger creatures including human beings. With the disappearance of trees, one can see a steady decline of life all around. Landslides occur more frequently and leads to exposing the rocky undersides of the mountains which increases the heat. The snow line starts receding affecting the water supply. The lives of millions of people will be adversely affected in the coming years.

In my view, we are rapidly running downhill towards destruction and only a miracle or a dramatic change of peoples approach can help improve things.

As I reflected on this, one thought struck my mind. For a long time, our society has ignored the person who plants, nourishes and protects trees. Instead, we reward the person who cuts the trees by purchasing the produce from him. One simple way to improve things is to change this equation. Can we start recognising and rewarding the planter or creator and start punishing the cutter / destroyer? If we do this, more people will be incentivised to turn creators.

There are many who love trees and wish they could do something to help. Most however, get distracted and de-focused over time. There are very few who take action and make things happen. Each of us can make a difference. In our respective localities, we can make efforts to help plant, nurture and protect trees. We can cajole, coerce or convince people to support this movement. Terrace farms can be converted into terrace orchards with fruit bearing trees.

Let us make the earth a better place. Lets become creators of a better tomorrow. Lets us give our children and grand children a greener, cooler and better earth to live in.

Heaven on earth

If someone was to ask you to describe earth in one word, what would that be?

Some say that the earth is akin to heaven with beautiful natural spots, many man made wonders, luxuries to spoil us, comforts and conveniences, fantastic gourmet food, lovely people, so many sports and games to amuse us, music and fine arts to entertain us etc. Truly, we can enjoy life to its fullest whilst still in this earth. It is difficult to imagine how much more heavenly can it get. One can spend a lifetime of bliss right here (if only we can afford it).

On the other hand, people who have experienced the murkier side of life would say that the earth is a veritable hell with mindless violence aimed at maiming and hurting people, cheating aimed at depriving others of what is rightfully theirs, lying and deceit to fulfil selfish desires, filth and pollution created by modern day urban living, wanton destruction of natural wealth etc. People whom we believe to be decent or honest sometimes surprise us by behaving otherwise. Don’t we see this all around us? We do not need to go anywhere else to suffer for our sins. We create hell in earth with our sins.

So, in this very earth, we can discover our heaven or find our hells. It all depends on what we choose to do. There are some like Mother Teresa who create heaven wherever they go. They spread joy. They take very little but give a lot. They are selfless. They have no desire but to see happiness and smiles filling up everyone’s lives. They touch everyone positively and leave pleasant memories for people to bask in. Such people are rare indeed. The vast majority of people are living in their own small worlds, tied up in their own little desires & problems and eking out a miserable existence.

What stops us from reaching those heights? What prevents us from transforming ourselves from the ordinary to the extra-ordinary? What does it take for us to convert the entire earth into a heaven of peace, harmony and joy? All it takes is to become less self-centered and care more for others around us. Let’s lead lives that are less complicated and demanding. Let us embrace simple living. Let us care for our fellow beings and revel in seeing happiness in others.

Then, my friends we can say that there is heaven in earth.

Eco-friendly living

The hot topic which causes concerns across the world today is not terrorism but global warming. Terrorism is a pain but the impact of global warming will be devastating. Glaciers will melt, sea levels will rise, weather will become more unpredictable, alternating flood and drought conditions will make life miserable, food shortages will be rampant etc. Life in this lovely planet will no longer be the same unless we take immediate steps.

The sense of urgency is felt across nations as people are seeing the direct impact of global warming. Various nations are discussing the steps to be taken and there is negotiation on who is responsible and who will sacrifice how much.

A few days ago I met a man named Venkatachalam who lives near my home. He shocked me by saying that he does not use any appliances at home. He has no refrigerator, washing machine, microwave oven, mixer / grinder, air conditioner etc. Since he is quite well off, I wanted to know the reason for this frugal lifestyle. He said that he is doing his bit to reduce global warming. I was truly impressed.

Global warming has been caused by each one of us by living lives which are not eco-friendly. If we take stock of what all we do during our typical days, we will realise that there are many things we do which have an adverse impact on the environment. Whether it is using of harmful chemicals in our soap or toothpaste, whether it is in the use of mobile phones which emit harmful radiation, whether it is in the wasteful consumption of electricity - there are many different innovative methods available to harm the environment. We mistakenly think science and technology have made the quality of our lives better and more enriched. If we think deeply, we realise that technology has introduced convenience to us which comes at great cost.

The responsibility of reducing global warming is with each one of us. We have to take stock of our lives like my friend Venkatachalam and make necessary changes and sacrifices for the common good. Every effort is useful and one should not wait for others to do the needful. I am reminded of a story from the Ramayana about a squirrel which contributed its mite to the construction of a bridge across the ocean. The mighty monkey army of Lord Rama was carrying large boulders and dumping them on the ocean. The tiny squirrel was wetting its body, rolling in the sand and then running to the bridge and shaking its body thereby dropping the sand on the bridge. Even Lord Rama was touched by its act.

It is time for us to do our bit by changing our lifestyle. Let us make a pledge today that we will give up habits and practices which are not eco-friendly. It could be as simple as not using plastic bags or turning the tap off when brushing your teeth. We will also cultivate habits and do acts that have a positive impact. Not only will we make changes in our lives but also encourage others around to do the same.

If you agree, please write in your comments to this blog as to what specifically you want to do in your life towards the aim of eco-friendly living.

Thoughts on Equality

Every creature whether it is a human being, bird, animal, insect, fish etc. is made up of two essential elements. One is the body and the other is the soul / life within the body. The body of each being is clearly made up of the basic elements like water, earth, fire. The soul is more subtle and one cannot see it or feel it. However, we can presume that the soul is no different in each. Thus if we break down the substances that go to form each being, we can see that it is the same.

Thus, although the outward appearance is different each is the essentially the same. Yet, we believe that we are different, superior, inferior etc. We believe that we deserve to get higher share in things because we are human. We believe that the world is made only for our existence and enjoyment. Many of us care two hoots about the rights of other creatures or beings.

Within humans also we create artificial barriers and obstacles for others based on colour, religion, caste, creed, region etc. Due to our selfish motives, we expect the best for us and want the others to be satisfied with our left overs. Our ego always prompts us to fulfil needs of ourselves even if it is at the cost of depriving someone else.

Although everyone is equal and has equal rights, we are all different in terms of our capabilities and talents. It is not easily possible for anyone to become extraordinary in any field without certain inborn talents. Dedication, sincerity, perseverance and hard work can take us forward but without the inner spark, we may never move from good to great.

Similarly, there are certain roles that we are biologically programmed to do that can't be delegated or modified. For example, only women can bear children and that too, safely only during a certain period of their lives. Likewise, women are psychologically better equipped in the role of educating and grooming children to become responsible adults.

We see two extremes prevalent in the world. One is gross inequity in the treatment of humans and other creatures by people who are better endowed. The other extreme is the abuse the concepts of equality. If, in the name of equality, everyone wanted to be doing cushy jobs and have cushy lives, how will the world survive? For instance, the taxi driver cannot fly the aeroplane, the engineer cannot do a surgery and the cat cannot perform the role of a watchdog. Each one has to perform the role that one is best suited for.

While we work towards re-establishing a comprehensive equality mindset in this world, we should also work towards becoming mature, balanced and realistic in choosing and performing our respective roles.

"Having choices in life is a privilege. Making the right choices in life is a responsibility" - Anonymous

The 'needs' test

The whole universe and everything that exists is God's creation. He has made sure that every creature he has created is well provided for. Every insect, bird, animal, fish etc. has a space to live and food to survive. It is truly a magnificent creation wherein each of the millions of species is programmed to survive and flourish.

If we see most creatures, they only consume what they need. Even if they store or accumulate, like bees or ants do, it is only for the sake of their consumption during the lean season when food supply is limited. They never seek or crave for anything beyond what is necessary for survival.

If we look at human, we have a difference of approach. After the basic needs of man is taken care, the needs of the ego arise. So, we seek larger homes in better locations and multiple homes too. We buy clothing that we may not wear too often and remains in the confines of our wardrobes. There is virtually no end to the "needs" of our ego. Is it need or greed?

It is our greed that results in unnecessary destruction to our habitat and our world. In the name of progression man has ignored other creatures and progressively encroached on their lives. It is time we reverse this trend.

One simple way would be to take the 'needs' test every time we feel compelled to buy something. Do I really need it? Can I manage without it? Can I make do with what I already have? These are the kind of questions to ask ourselves. If we can make this one change, we can make a significant positive impact. And the 'needs' test can be applied in many other areas too. Let's simplify our lives this way.

Even if we can "afford" something, we should not procure it unless we really need it. If indeed we have surplus resources at our disposal, we can use it to fulfil the genuine needs of people who do not have the means to satisfy it. Here too, the 'needs' test would be relevant. Charity done without doing the needs test may turn out to be a wasted effort.

If we thus make sincere efforts to use the available resources in this world to satisfy the needs of its creatures, we will end up making this a much brighter and happier world.

Lets spread joy around us. It will surely end up making our lives more joyful..

Be clean

Everyone will readily agree with the title. After all, we have learnt while still as kids that "Cleanliness is next only to Godliness". A question to address ourselves would be in order here. Do we practice what we know ? If we do a mental audit of all our activities, will we get a reasonably high score ?

In India, it is a tradition not to wear footwear inside the house. As soon as we come back home, we need to wash our hands and legs before doing anything. Similarly, there are cleanliness rules for other occasions. Thanks to the influence of various cultural invasions into the country, many of our healthy practices are getting replaced by "modern" practices.

When we think of cleanliness, we should not just restrict it to ourselves. We need to keep our homes and surroundings clean too. It cannot be ignored under the presumption that it is someone else's responsibility. It can be clearly seen that the spread of various contagious diseases is contained if we keep ourselves and our environment hygienic.

Most importantly, we need to watch our minds too. Do we have clean thoughts? When we do get unclean thoughts, do we take the efforts to purify our minds? Are we obsessed with the desire to be clean? If we are, we can be rest assured that our lives will be healthy and happy. And by watching us, others will also get influenced to do likewise.

Lets resolve now to enhance the cleanliness in our lives.

"Better keep yourself clean and bright; you are the window through which you must see the world." - George Bernard Shaw

"You make the world a better place by making yourself a better person."- Scott Sorrell

Plant a Tree Today !!

It is the month of July. Monsoon was weak in June and now we are seeing sporadic heavy rains this month. Several thoughts come to mind. Has the commencement of monsoon shifted from June to July ? Are we going to get normal rainfall this year or is the global warming going to affect us ? What can we do to ensure healthy rainfall year on year ? When it is raining, should we relax indoors in a cosy environment with a hot drink ? Or should we make use of this opportunity to do something useful ?

I feel, this is a good time to plant trees. Instead of letting nature takes its own course, we should help nature by proactively improving the green cover. We consume, in our lifetimes, a fair amount of trees in various forms - whether it is in the form of furniture or paper we use. Trees form a vital part of of everyday lives. Yet, how many of us can stand up and proudly proclaim that "I have planted and grown X number of trees" ? Most of us are net consumers of trees. We are slowly but steadily eroding mother nature of its glory.

I have read of a woman named Wangari in Kenya who has single-handedly planted and nurtured thousands of trees over many years. Her love for trees and her dedication to this task despite occassional stiff opposition is highly impressive. She started a movement called the Green Belt Movement which has caught the attention of many more people like her across that nation.

If not thousands like her, can we make a start by planting one single tree ? Trees have long lifespans. They seek nothing from us except care in the initial few months or so. After that, they are only selflessly and silently working for us. They give us shade in hot weather, they house so many birds and insects etc., they give us fruits and most importantly they help us reduce global warming.

The other day, I saw a group of volunteers (young school and college going kids) from "Art of Living" society planting several trees. They were not participating in any competition. They were not in it for any recognition. They simply cared for the environment and wanted to do their bit. I was hugely motivated by this and did my bit by applauding them and by planting a few trees myself.

Hope I have seeded a thought in your minds too....

Control your Consumption !!

As human beings, we are constantly consuming. By consumption, I refer to any act which extinguishes the value of something. So, when we watch TV, we are consuming power. When we go for a drive, we are consuming petrol. When we eat, we are consuming food. etc. etc. Reading a book, for example, is not consumption as the value is not eroded. We need to be conscious of those activities of ours which result in consumption.

Many of us, especially people who are well off, tend to consume more as a habit than to satisfy a real need. We may be in the living room and yet the lights or fan in the bedroom may be switched on. We may not be hungry and yet may cook / serve ourselves a full meal. We do not realise that every excess consumption of ours is negatively impacting our society and our environment in addition to impacting our pocket !! In nature, animals and birds adjust their lifestyle to changes that happen. For e.g. In winter, some birds migrate to warmer countries or some animals go into hibernation. But we humans, remain in harsh climates and consume more to survive !!

One of the surest ways of protecting our environment is by consuming less. When we consume without a real need, we are wasting the resource available. Besides depriving some other person who may have a real need for it, we are also increasing the costs. When we have the savings mindset, we will get more "bang for the buck". I recollect reading a story of a wise man who before replacing his worn mattress confirms that the old one is converted into a duster to swipe the floor. And that the old duster was converted to some other useful item of daily use.

The natural resources of mother nature are limited. Our efforts in conserving it will help us and our future generations. If we live today as if there is no tomorrow, indeed it may come true. Let us resolve that we will consume only what is really needed by us. Let us commit to creating a better tomorrow.

We eat to live and not live to eat – Gautam Buddha

Protect the Environment

We live in a wonderful and lovely planet. It has the most beautiful of mountains, lovely valleys and gardens, green and thick tropical forests, vast expanses of desert land, snow covered hills, lovely lakes & rivers and the most exotic and wonderful creatures inhabiting it. It would take several lifetimes to explore and fully enjoy the lovely planet we were born in. It is our home and it belongs to all of us.

When something belongs to us, what do we do with it? We take care, protect it, grow it, nourish it, and take pride in showing it off to everyone, right? So, if we have to take care of our planet, our environment which belongs to us, what should we do? The first and most important thing is to treat it as our own. Yes, we should not look at the planet as belonging to someone else and give up our rights to it. We should strongly believe it to be ours and fiercely protect it.

Like the Bishnoi tribals in Rajasthan for whom the wild life is almost divine - they revere it, the love it and would even give up their lives to protect it. I can vividly recollect the picture of a tribal woman who was captured on camera breast feeding an orphaned doe. She treated it as her own child. That is the spirit with which we need to care for our environment.

And why not? We get everything from the environment. If we pollute it, destroy it or spoil it, who will be the loser? When it fails to rain or the summers are excessively hot who suffers? When unnatural calamities like floods, typhoons and earthquakes occur, who gets impacted? When food production dwindles who is affected? It is us - whether directly or indirectly, whether we accept it or deny it.

We cannot be silent spectators to the destruction of our environment. We cannot look the other way when someone else is trying to destroy our beautiful planet. We have to conscious of our every action or inaction and its impact on the environment. Lets us pledge to commit ourselves to improving the quality of our planet by saving and increasing the green cover, reducing pollution and waste, protecting wildlife and preventing anyone from causing damage to our lovely planet.