Murphy's Law

 Murphy's Law is a well-known adage that states: "Anything that can go wrong will go wrong." It is often phrased with the addition of "and at the worst possible time."

For example , if you are waiting for a phone call for long, it may come when you are taking bath.

It is a good example of how the principle is often applied humorously to everyday situations. While not the original or universally accepted definition, it certainly captures the essence of Murphy's Law: the idea that things tend to go wrong, often at inconvenient times.

The phone call ringing while you're in the bath - is a common trope in various forms of media like sitcoms and movies. It plays on the expectation of something inconvenient happening at an inopportune moment, which resonates with the general understanding of Murphy's Law.

It's important to remember that Murphy's Law is not a scientific principle and should not be taken literally. It's a humorous proverb that reflects a pessimistic outlook on the world, not a guaranteed outcome of any situation.

Biscuits

 One morning, as I returned from my customary stroll, an unexpected message greeted me on the ground, scrawled in chalk: “Maa! Mujhe bahut bhookh lagi hai (Mom! I am very hungry).” Intrigued, I followed the plea to the north-west corner of my property, where, in my retirement, I had built a small house. Adjacent to my dwelling, a humble corner house hosted a family of four, the husband and wife contributing to daily chores with contentment for the pay we provided. We had always supported them during crises, and their children, bright learners attending English-medium schools, were an integral part of their lives.

Driven by compassion, I purchased a packet of biscuits the next day. To preserve their dignity, I assigned the distribution task to the younger child. He followed my instructions, sharing the treats  equitably. The following morning, the same child awaited me, a poignant reminder of the joy this simple act brought him.

This routine persisted for some months, bringing a sense of fulfillment. However, a change unfolded when the children inadvertently began neglecting my wife, possibly influenced by her stern demeanour reminiscent of their teachers. My wife, hurt by their disrespectful behavior, decided to cease the biscuit distribution. This deeply saddened me.

In an attempt to mend relations, I approached the younger boy, recognizing his growth into adolescence. Yet, his eyes held a silent question the next morning. To spare them disappointment, I altered my routine, ensuring I returned home after their school hours. Gradually, the children adapted to the change, and I resumed my usual morning schedule.

A heartening transformation occurred as the children began greeting my wife with cheerful “good morning” and “good evening.” I was astounded. One day, while searching for snacks in the kitchen cupboard, I stumbled upon a carton full of biscuit packets identical to the ones I used to give the children. It was as if the universe conspired to remind me that kindness, even when faced with challenges, has a way of coming back to us, filling our lives with unexpected sweetness.

 

A Feathered Friendship: A Touch of Comfort during Turbulent Times

The year 2020, with its unprecedented challenges, brought unexpected connections. Confined within the precincts during the Corona crisis, I found solace in caring for the birds. A pot of fresh water and scattered grains became an invitation, attracting crows and a small flock of timid pigeons.

Among them, one stood out, a white beauty with a black patch. Unlike her

squabbling companions, she exuded innocence and peace. Our bond grew; she'd run towards me, patiently waiting for her treat. After enjoying her meal, she'd perch on the parapet, a silent companion. When her flock took flight, she'd linger, her presence a soothing balm.

This routine continued for months, a beacon of comfort in a tumultuous world. Her cooing often reached my room below, a reminder of our connection. Even during the rainy season, confined indoors, she'd visit the doorway, a silent plea for her usual offering.

One unsettling morning, a thud on the studio roof shattered the peace. Crows, usually tolerated, attacked me relentlessly. Returning to the room, I waited anxiously, suspecting a snake had snatched a bird. The air buzzed with the crows' incessant cawing, finally giving way to silence.

The next day upstairs, I found fallen feathers - pigeon feathers. A snake swallows whole, so it had to be the neighbour’s cat, I reasoned. But cat takes her kill to her hideout to eat. After much thought, the truth dawned - an eagle. Its swift attack leaves no chance for escape, and it devours its prey on the spot.

My gentle friend, the symbol of peace in a chaotic world, was gone. While sadness lingered, a deeper understanding emerged. Some creatures, like my feathered friend, touch our lives briefly but leave an indelible mark, reminding us of the delicate balance of nature and the beauty of unexpected connections.

 

Bhattacharya Sir

 Patna Collegiate School buzzed with activity after the Summer vaccation in 1959. We were thrust into the new Higher Secondary system, squeezing our 9th class into just six months. New teachers arrived, and so did dignitaries, including Rajkumari  Amrit Kaur, a freedom fighter and Union Minister. Our musical ensemble serenaded them, with science teacher Bhattacharya Sir captivating everyone with his rendition of "Vande Mataram" in Hemant Kumar's iconic voice.

My ten months with Bhattacharya Sir were unique. His Bengali attire and slow, measured speech barely reached the back benches, making him a non-threatening figure. He never scolded or hit, simply offering a single, piercing look when someone erred. He fancied one student sting on the front bench particularly. Perhaps that boy reminded him of his childhood. Even in the lab, asthma confined him to a chair outside, only entering when truly needed. His deep voice and

physique strangely resembled eminent music director Salil Chaudhary. I never imagined the hero he would become.

Every year, after the rains, our school held a football tournament, kicking off with a teacher-student exhibition match. Teachers enjoyed leeway – unlimited substitutions, bare feet for safety, and varied attire. In the initial game, students played playfully, out of respect. But post-intermission, two quick goals showcased their professional talent, leaving the teachers on the defensive. Exhausted and facing defeat, they slumped on chairs next to where I sat near  Bhattacharya Sir. He muttered, his legs fidgeting with anticipation.

Suddenly, Bhattacharya Sir took the field, gesturing for a spot on the left flank. His dhoti-clad figure surprised everyone. Receiving the ball, he stunned us all. He dribbled into the penalty box and unleashed a powerful shot, scoring! But the second goal was unforgettable. From midfield, he dodged opponents, weaving his way to the corner, and unleashed a left-footed rocket that curved into the net. There was stunned silence, replaced by cheers – "Bent just like Beckham!" they might have roared today. The final whistle blew, and amidst thunderous applause, no one noticed Sir gasping for breath on the ground. He recovered to be hoisted on the shoulders of the celebrating students, the winning shield presented to him. The Principal revealed Sir's past as a rising star on Kolkata's legendary Mohan Bagan team, side-lined by asthma.

A year later, I left Patna with my transferred father. To my utter surprise, during my final chemistry practical exam, I saw  Bhattacharya Sir as the external examiner. He wouldn't recognize an ordinary student like me, I thought. The challenging task of creating sodium chloride after preparing Hydrochloric Acid gas consumed my focus. Suddenly, he was beside me for the viva. Two questions were all he asked. I answered accurately, the second being, "Were you in Patna Collegiate?"

Years later,Bhattacharya Sir remains etched in my memory, not just as a brilliant teacher, but as a hero on the football field, his passion and skill defying his physical limitations. He taught me that greatness hides in unexpected places, waiting to be revealed when courage meets opportunity.

From Nuisance to Lullaby: A Gully Cricket Story

Gully cricket, is an informal version of the sport cricket that is played in non-traditional venues such as streets, alleys, parks, and backyards.  It is typically played with fewer players and simpler rules than formal cricket. The equipment is also often improvised, with a tennis ball or rolled-up paper serving as the ball and a broom or wooden stick used as the bat. The pitch is usually marked out with stones or chalk, and the boundaries are determined by the available space.Despite its simplicity, gully cricket can be a very exciting and competitive game. It is a great way for children to learn the basics of cricket and develop their skills. It also provides a valuable opportunity for socializing and building community spirit.

The old house had its charm: a courtyard, a veranda, and a corridor. The corridor, with its endless straight-drive potential and need for just one fielder, was our afternoon cricket haven. Judge Uncle's living room, tucked neatly in the corridor's "short cover," would erupt in commotion every time the tennis ball kissed their wall or window.

Today, playgrounds, verandas, and corridors are luxuries reserved for the lucky few. This made my house's front yard the prime target for the neighbourhood’s afternoon cricket matches. Now, my living room window stood a mere 3 meters away from the swinging bat, right in the heart of the "action." Add to that my

afternoon relaxation time, and you have a recipe for potential annoyance. The chirping chatter about cricket and schoolyard adventures followed them like loyal companions. The game usually ended when their "birth right" - sibling squabbles - took centre stage.

Initially, when the ball landed on my window once or twice, I threatened to knock their teeth out. A chilling silence followed, deafening my afternoon naps. It dawned on me: the silence wasn't due to fear, but a lost ball. That evening, I found myself at the market, buying them a new one.

Now, the symphony of "out!" shouts, bat thuds, and their animated discussions lull me to sleep like the sweetest lullaby. A little window's worth of glass pales in comparison to the magic and vibrancy of gully cricket. It's a reminder that sometimes, the greatest joy comes from unexpected sources, even if it arrives with a few dents and scrapes.

 

The Echoes of Laughter: Embracing Life's Antidote

 The words "Laughter is the best medicine" in Reader's Digest leapt off the page, echoing my own lived experience. From childhood, laughter formed the bedrock of our family's emotional landscape. Tears were invariably met with a sibling's playful jab, turning sobs into shared guffaws. This playful therapy transcended the home, healing scraped knees and bruised egos on the playground with a well-timed quip.

As we matured, laughter remained our go-to remedy, offering a temporary refuge from deeper anxieties. Even the sting of lost love was soothed by a Chaplin-esque bounce back, reminding us of life's resilience.

Imagine the scenario: you slip on a busy street, bracing for judgment. Instead, amused smiles crinkle the faces around you. Embarrassment melts into shared laughter, propelling you forward, lighter and more connected.

One specific film scene lingers in my mind. A cancer patient undergoing surgery erupts into laughter, triggered by a nurse's lighthearted touch. Though his passing is tragic, it's a death imbued with an unexpected serenity, free from the shackles of pain. This raises a captivating question: have you witnessed the enigmatic smile adorning the faces of the departed, a silent testament to their release from earthly burdens?

The Ways of the Greats: India and Singapore : A Comparison

Singapore and India are vastly different countries with unique histories, demographics, and political systems. Direct comparisons are often complex and require nuanced understanding of both contexts.

While Singapore enjoys stability, economic growth, and efficient governance, its smaller size and relatively homogenous population create distinct advantages compared to India's immense size and diversity.

In contemporary Singapore, the People’s Action Party (PAP) has maintained a remarkable and enduring political dominance since its inception in 1954. Founded by Lee Kuan Yew and his comrades, the PAP has governed the nation continuously since 1959 when Singapore was granted self-government by the British. Full independence followed in 1965, marked by a painful separation from Malaysia after a brief merger. The PAP’s unparalleled longevity has evoked both fascination and incomprehension from external observers. Here are some key points about Singaporean politics and the PAP:

Political Dominance: The PAP has been the sole ruling party in Singapore since 1959, shaping policies and governance consistently. Its uninterrupted rule is matched by few other political parties globally.

Efficient Governance: Singapore is often described as running like an extremely efficient corporation. The city-state’s success is attributed in part to the PAP’s ability to deliver effective policies and maintain stability.

Authoritarian Perception: Some Western observers view Singapore as authoritarian due to measures like the ban on chewing gum and caning. However, it’s essential to recognize that Singapore’s political system allows for some political pluralism within the framework constructed by the PAP.

Lee Kuan Yew’s Vision: Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore’s modern founding father, played a pivotal role in shaping the PAP’s trajectory. His insights, sought by world leaders, emphasized the need for an unvarnished account of the party’s history. Lee wanted to ensure that younger generations understood Singapore’s journey and appreciated the party’s contributions.

In summary, Singapore’s peaceful politics, anchored by the PAP, have facilitated stability, economic growth, and efficient governance. While debates continue about the balance between political pluralism and dominance, the PAP’s legacy remains a defining aspect of Singapore’s contemporary landscape.

Narendra Modi, India’s Prime Minister, engaged in a series of extensive discussions with Singaporean leadership starting from 2014. These interactions were significant for several reasons:

Bilateral Cooperation: The talks aimed to strengthen bilateral ties between India and Singapore. Both nations explored avenues for collaboration in areas such as trade, investment, technology, and defence.

Economic Synergy: Modi and Singaporean leaders likely discussed economic models, investment strategies, and policies. Singapore’s success as a global financial hub and India’s aspirations for economic growth provided common ground for sharing insights.

Urban Planning and Smart Cities: Given Singapore’s expertise in urban planning, discussions may have revolved around creating smart cities in India. Singapore’s efficient infrastructure and sustainable development practices could inspire India’s urban transformation.

Digital Governance: Singapore’s e-governance systems and digital infrastructure could have influenced India’s Digital India initiative. Modi might have sought lessons on implementing technology-driven governance.

Security and Defence: Singapore and India share security concerns in the Indo-Pacific region. Discussions likely covered maritime security, counterterrorism, and defence cooperation.

Cultural Exchange: Modi’s interactions with Singaporean leaders could have included cultural exchange, promoting tourism, and celebrating shared heritage.

These dialogues fostered mutual understanding and paved the way for collaborative efforts. Both nations continue to learn from each other’s experiences, adapting policies to their unique contexts.

India has indeed drawn inspiration from Singapore in various aspects. Let’s explore some of these parallels:

Economic Development: Both Singapore and India have prioritized economic growth. Singapore’s transformation from a small trading port to a global financial hub is often cited as a model. Similarly, India aims to boost its economy through reforms, infrastructure development, and foreign investment.

Smart Cities and Urban Planning: Singapore’s efficient urban planning, clean streets, and well-designed public spaces have influenced India’s Smart Cities Mission. Indian cities are striving to replicate Singapore’s success in terms of cleanliness, green spaces, and efficient transportation.

Digital Transformation: Singapore’s digital infrastructure and e-governance systems have inspired India’s push toward digitization. Initiatives like Digital India and Aadhaar draw lessons from Singapore’s tech-savvy approach.

Education and Skilling: Singapore’s focus on education, vocational training, and skill development has resonated with India. The Skill India program aims to enhance employability and bridge the skills gap.

Law and Order: Singapore’s strict laws and efficient law enforcement have influenced India’s approach to maintaining order. Measures like the Clean India campaign and traffic regulations draw inspiration from Singapore’s discipline.

Foreign Relations: Both nations engage in pragmatic diplomacy, balancing global powers. Singapore’s strategic location and India’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region have led to closer ties.

It’s essential to recognize that each country has its unique context, challenges, and cultural nuances. While India learns from Singapore, it also adapts policies to suit its diverse population and democratic framework. As India continues its journey, it will blend global best practices with its own rich heritage. However, attributing these successes solely to the Prime Minister's discussions with Singaporean leadership is an oversimplification. Numerous factors and initiatives contribute to national progress.

An Elephant Story of Gratitude and Mutual Aid

In a world where the ever-expanding human population encroaches upon the natural habitats of elephants, the consequences are twofold. Not only do human dwellings encroach into protected forest areas, but developmental projects like roads, railways, and mining compound the loss of elephant habitats. Isolated elephant populations find themselves unable to traverse ancient migratory routes, leading to a lack of interaction with other herds. This habitat loss forces elephants to seek alternative food sources, often impacting rural farming areas adjacent to the forests.Elephants are not to be blamed.

On a tranquil afternoon, the serene rumble of an elephant herd was abruptly shattered by a distressed trumpeting. A playful baby elephant had stumbled into a deep ditch, its cries echoing with panic. Despite the immense strength of the parents, they were unable to reach their stranded offspring. Frustration mounted, and their calls for help resonated far beyond the forest, capturing the attention of village children playing nearby.

Fearlessly led by a courageous boy named Ravi, the children hastened towards the distressed sounds. Witnessing the plight of the baby elephant, they acted swiftly, using their knowledge of the forest to fashion a sturdy rope from the long prop roots of banayan tree. Ravi, small and nimble, volunteered to descend into the ditch. With courage, he secured the rope around the baby elephant, and the children, working in unison, pulled the young pachyderm to safety.

Word of the children's bravery spread rapidly, reaching the grateful hearts of the elephant herd. The memory of this act of kindness forged a special bond between the elephants and the village children. The rescued baby elephant, named Raju, grew into a playful member of the herd, often reciprocating the gratitude by offering rides to his young saviours on his broad back.

But the story didn't conclude there. Touched by the elephants' gratitude, the villagers decided to express their appreciation in a tangible way. Collaboratively, they volunteered a large portion of their farming land and planted fields of elephant grass, banana trees, and fast-growing varieties like mango, jamun, karanj, and elm, ensuring a steady food source for the herd. In return, the isolated group of elephants ceased raiding crops, opting instead to peacefully partake in the offerings provided by the villagers.

This mutual respect blossomed into a beautiful partnership. The elephants, with their immense strength, assisted the villagers in transporting heavy loads and clearing fallen trees during storms. They even offered rides to school-going children, aiding them in crossing flooded rivulets.

This heart-warming tale teaches us about the potent impact of compassion and empathy. It underscores the presence of unexpected heroes in times of need and serves as a reminder that acts of kindness, regardless of their scale, can create ripple effects, fostering harmony and establishing a world where humans and animals coexist in respect and mutual aid.

Beggars Can Be Choosers Too

Begging, an unconventional way of life, establishes its presence with an unwavering grip on temples, railway stations, bus stands, and other bustling hubs of human activity. In these domains, a distinct breed of beggars emerges, often characterized by intelligence and professionalism, strategically targeting running trains and thriving amidst the urban hustle. The management of begging in metropolitan areas and on trains typically falls under the control of formidable muscle mafias, extending their influence even to the subways of New York.

Reflecting on my college days, a unique encounter with the world of beggars unfolded during the extended stoppage of my college bus near the renowned Kali temple in the city. This pause offered passengers ample time to visit the temple for prayers, a ritual I too observed during examination days. Positioned at the temple's entrance were beggars seeking alms, and among them, one individual captured the devout attention of worshippers.

This man, aged around 60, bore the effects of polio, rendering his legs impaired. Moving with difficulty, he relied on his chappal-strapped hands to propel himself forward. Despite his physical challenges, he exuded a generous spirit. Whenever students like me expressed inability to offer alms, he responded with a smile, blessing us for success in our examinations. On one early morning return from a tour, I witnessed him arriving by rickshaw to his usual spot near the temple gate.

As life unfolded, post-graduation led me to a different town, and a few years later, a nostalgic visit to my old habitat prompted a return to the temple. However, the beggar who had once left an indelible impression was conspicuously absent. Inquiring with a nearby shopkeeper, I discovered the beggar's demise. To my surprise, further conversations unveiled an astonishing revelation – he had departed this world as a millionaire. The once-lame beggar now owned 20 rickshaws, operated in the city. His assets included three significant buildings in both the city and its suburbs, securing a comfortable future for his well-placed children.

My new residence was not immune to the presence of beggars, and among them, a towering, robust figure stood out. Cloaked in minimal attire with a bag slung over his shoulders; this black beggar made early-morning visits to our home. His voice, resonating in his native dialect, echoed through the air, imploring, "O Malik maai, Bhikha milok nee (O master! O mother! Give me alms)." This ritual unfolded with a two-minute interval, punctuated by his persistent calls. If his initial plea went unanswered, it transformed into a commanding request by the third call. After that, he would start muttering and move to the next residence. The shrillness of his voice ensured that someone among us would rise from bed, attempting to pacify him before the inevitable third call.

The frequency of his visits lacked a set pattern, occurring sporadically – at times daily, sometimes weekly, and occasionally after a month. His chosen recipients were selective, and once he secured what he sought, he would conclude his visit and retreat to his designated spot. Observing his behaviour, it became evident that he was not of the hoarding type, merely seeking what he needed before moving on. Few months later, he faded into oblivion.

When my children moved to the most sought-out education hub in Pune, I had to frequent Pune to meet them occasionally. I had to change my train at Rourkela station. While going, the changeover took two hours at night. While returning, it sometimes extended to three hours in the early morning because the detached bogies waited for being attached to the incoming master train.

I will never forget two things about those days' journey. There was a beggar. He was a tall, black, not-so-handsome young man walking with a crutch to balance his lame leg. He also wore dark glasses; perhaps he had some ailment in the eyes. He was not blind. He wore a long, smelly Kabuli kurta (shirt), enough to cover his entire body. His only good leg was visible. This beggar entered the bogie as soon as the train stopped. He started yelling in full volume some godly bhajans. The voice was so hoarse and unmusical that passengers had to yield from their deep slumber and gave him some alms. He moved ahead with the same jarring voice.

Synchronizing with the beggar’s departure, the tea vendor made his entry. A well-dressed, lean and thin young man had a strange vocabulary to promote his tea. He used to yell, ”Kharaab chai, Kharaab Chai (Bad tea, bad tea)!” His tea used to be very good; hot, little sugar, and sprinkled with cardamom. Passengers already aroused by the beggar songs eagerly bought tea from the vendor.

I had to frequent this return train journey 5 to 6 times in a span of 3 years. I became accustomed to these two regular visitors. Early morning did not allow probing further about them. One thing became clear. They were doing their business in tandem.

On one such journey, when the train stopped for two hours for marshalling of bogies in early morning I felt an urge to smoke a cigarette. I got down from my bogie and moved towards a park laid down between the platforms. The park had two or three benches sprawled amongst full-grown bushes and trees. I settled down on the nearest bench available and lit my cigarettes. I began surveying the Park. The ambience was heart-warming. At a distance, a young man in his shorts was doing yoga. I was impressed. His Surya-namaskaar” was worth watchable. The man finished his yoga. After a while, he walked passed me like a man in a hurry looking straight ahead. But to my dismay, he was on crutches. He had only one good leg. He was wearing the same long Kabuli kurta. I was dumbfounded. Later, in the train, he was doing his business as usual. This joker must have some good reason for wearing such masks. I left the matter open for my future journey.

In the grand tapestry of life, where destinies are woven by circumstance and choice, these beggars, with their resilience and unexpected trajectories, challengethe notion that one's station in life is predetermined. Technology has transformed begging, offering new avenue of opportunities. They can now reach out to potential donors through social media, messaging apps, and online platforms. Online crowdfunding platforms allow beggars to share their stories and seek financial assistance directly from a global audience. Beggars can now accept digital payments via mobile wallets, making transactions more convenient for donors. Fortunes may change, and beggars can indeed be choosers too.