UP Tough For Modi But 2024 Demands Brand New Platform: Saeed Naqvi

Drawing room hopping in the capital, restricted as much by corona as by a singular absence of information on which lively political gup-shup can be sustained, came alive last week with Meghalaya Governor Satya Pal Malik’s public assault on the Prime Minister. Narendra Modi was “ghamandi” (arrogant), he said. This was not all. He quoted Amit Shah saying unflattering things about the Prime Minister’s mental balance. Malik has not yet been removed as Governor of Meghalaya. He clashed with Narendra Modi on the issue of farmers. Is that the reason why he is not being “touched” on the eve of state elections next month, particularly in UP.

Drawing room chatteratti are perking up. On political issues they are breaking out of the whispering mode; they are giving voice to speculations, even of infirm veracity. “Inside” sources are cited by the more unreliable. But when more than, say, four persons, unconnected with one another, begin to tot out the same figures, it is discreet to take note – 150 to 155 for the BJP in UP. The more adventurous speculators are bringing the figure down to 125. Why would the BJP ever accept this outcome in exchange for the 312 seats which it has at present in a House of 403?

Remember always Modi’s genius, his ability to transform a negative into a positive for himself. Look at the whodunit of his cavalcade stranded on a Punjab overbridge for 20 minutes. Had he travelled to his destination, he may have faced an almost absent audience. That is why he changed the route and ran into a traffic jam. This is the opposition narrative. His version is that he was deliberately exposed to danger. Temples have been mobilized for special prayers for the Prime Minister.

There is every likelihood of the Omicron virus peaking in February. Surely this will call for a strict adherence to Covid norms. Look how the virus galloped in Goa after the New Year eve jamboree. Can political rallies be permitted in these circumstances? Priyanka Gandhi has already jumped the gun – no rallies for two weeks. Is there a suggestion that elections can be postponed by making Omicron the excuse because the field reports are negative for the ruling party? Should this happen, would not the thousands of crores spent on advertising one infrastructure project after another go down the sump?

This invites the riposte: once the public has been made aware of the good works the government has done – in this case Yogi Adityanath – electoral advantage can be extracted within a reasonable period. This line of thinking ignores a fundamental reality: public memory is very short, shorter still in the time of google. This advertising blitz must be encashed immediately because otherwise there is nothing as dead as yesterday’s newspaper and nothing less persuasive than stale ads.

Ground reality is that the wind is not blowing in the BJP’s favour. The surge for Akhilesh Yadav is in reality a surge against the BJP. “Hubbe Ali kum; bughz e Muaviya zyada” which means “not for love of Ali but for hatred of Muaviya, Ali’s implacable enemy.” For a precise application of this aphorism the BJP will have to be broken up into its constituent parts. The surge in UP is against the Yogi. Modi is losing points largely by association with Yogi Adityanath.

The extent to which the BJP High Command has a say in UP, Yogi will be the fall guy either way. Victory in UP will be because of Modi’s tireless campaigning. Defeat will be placed at the Yogi’s door.

In other words, this could well be Yogi’s last term in Lucknow – so goes the drift of drawing room punditry. Those who claim to possess inside information talk of a tussle between the Yogi and High Command. Yogi is demanding 120 seats for his Hindu Yuva Vahini. He imagines this would give him leverage to dig his heels in should there be a move to replace him even in the event of a BJP victory.

Modi’s eyes are primarily set on the 2024 General Elections. Towards that goal UP is an irreplaceable staging post. Win or lose in UP, can the BJP ever go into a national election without hardening the Hindutva already in play.

The hard Hindutva, relentless minority bashing, scared voters into believing they were on God’s side because it flowed straight into the global torrents of Islamophobia during the post 9/11 war on terror. A miraculous coincidence has gone totally unnoticed by the global media. Modi was sent to Ahmedabad to replace Keshubhai Patel. He took charge on October 7 as Chief Minister. October 7 turned out to be the date of choice for the Pentagon to launch the war on terror, with Afghanistan as the target.

TV sets world over were saturated with fireworks on Afghanistan. Geraldo Rivera of Fox News was brandishing a gun on camera. “I shall shoot Osama if I see him.” Hysterical Islamophobia was enveloping the world. It was in that mood of global bigotry that Modi’s Hindutva was given shape. Hindutva had tailwinds of global Islamophobia behind it.

Circumstances today are exactly the opposite of what they were when Modi embarked on blood curdling Hindutva. Not only is there no Rivera flourishing a gun in front of the camera to finish Osama bin Laden and his cohorts, the Mujahideen have since mutated into Taleban. Today Taleban are the rulers in Kabul. Sooner or later a photograph will appear of Modi and a Taleban, even a Pakistan leader in some international conference on Afghanistan. Global and regional development are not conducive to a hard line. Hindutva by itself is politically useless. You don’t win elections on beef and love Jehad. Communalism has to be tied to nationalism to yield political results. In other words Balakot and Kashmir are required to stir up the cauldron. That string to Modi’s bow may loosen further as 2024 approaches.

Covid: Deadly Omicron should not be called mild, warns WHO

 The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned against describing the Omicron variant as mild, saying it is killing people across the world.

Recent studies suggest that Omicron is less likely to make people seriously ill than previous Covid variants.

But the record number of people catching it has left health systems under severe pressure, said WHO chief Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

On Monday, the US recorded more than one million Covid cases in 24 hours.

The WHO - the UN's health agency - said the number of global cases has increased by 71% in the last week, and in the Americas by 100%. It said that among severe cases worldwide, 90% were unvaccinated.

"While Omicron does appear to be less severe compared to Delta, especially in those vaccinated, it does not mean it should be categorised as mild," Dr Tedros told a press conference on Thursday.

"Just like previous variants, Omicron is hospitalising people and it is killing people.

"In fact, the tsunami of cases is so huge and quick, that it is overwhelming health systems around the world."

Omicron is highly contagious and can infect people even if they are fully vaccinated. However, vaccines are still pivotal as they help protect against severe diseases that could put you in hospital.

On Thursday, the UK reported 179,756 cases and 231 Covid-related deaths. A number of hospitals have declared "critical" incidents due to staff absence and rising pressures due to Covid.

Elsewhere, hospital numbers are also rising. France's health minister Olivier Veran warned this week that January would be tough for hospitals.

He added that Omicron patients were taking up "conventional" beds in hospitals while Delta was putting a strain on ICU departments. France on Thursday reported 261,000 cases.

Is Naseer Right? That Hyderabad More ‘Cultured’ Than Lucknow?

(By Saeed Naqvi) I don’t know when the interview was done but I saw it on YouTube last week. Naseeruddin Shah dismissed Lucknow as a centre of culture and praised Hyderabad sky-high by comparison. Naseer’s right but there’s a reason why Lucknow lost out in the culture stakes with both Hyderabad and Lahore. Both cities were around, their “culture” intact, till 1947. Lucknow had begun to “die” in 1857, after the British exiled Nawab Wajid Ali Shah to Metiabruz near Kolkata in late 1856, triggering 1857’s Great Uprising.

Lucknow, however, retained its premier slot for the institution of the “ulema”, plural for “alim” which derives from “ilm”, or knowledge with theology as the main expertise. With Maulana Kalbe Sadiq’s death at the age of 83 last month, the curtain finally fell on the institution of a long line of Lucknow’s “ulema”.

That this was largely a Shia institution is easily explained: the Nawabs of Awadh were Shia, which is where the patronage came from. This mustn’t detract from the fact that internationally known Sunni institutions like Darul Uloom Nadwatul Ulema also flourished. There was considerable intellectual rapport between the sects. How else does one explain the masterly Muazna-e-Anis-o-Dabir, a comparative study of Anis and Dabir, written by one of Nadwa’s greatest scholars Shibli Nomani. Anis and Dabir were famous Marsia writers, a genre focused on the tragedy of Karbala, central to the observance of Muharram, not exclusively but primarily a Shia occasion.

Kalbe Sadiq came from a long line of “ulema”, theological scholars conversant with liberal traditions of which Sufism was another part. Saiyid Waris Shah, Pir of Dewa Sharief, 7 km from Lucknow, had a simple explanation for not going through the “namaz” rituals. “Where is the space to bow in supplication?” The implication was: “He is in me”.

During my schooldays, a phase of cultural bifurcation between school and home, the two towering “Alims” of Lucknow were Maulana Kalbe Hussain (alias Kabban Sahib), Kalbe Sadiq’s father, and Maulana Ali Naqi (Naqqan Sahib), both brilliant orators whose sermons were much valued at congregations called the “Majlis”, provided the speaker deftly brought in Karbala to clinch the argument.

Lucknow’s celebrated tapestry of manners found itself frayed even in this limited circle of theologians and their followers. A group, clearly not from among “Naqqan Sahib’s” followers, created what for Lucknow was a major scandal. The group accused the respected cleric of blasphemy and physically assaulted him.

Apparently, Naqqan Sahib had in his research spotted mention of water in Imam Hussain’s tent. Even a hint like this was anathema to a bunch of fanatics. The absence of water in Karbala’s torrid heat heightens Hussain’s tragedy. For that reason, even a suggestion of water in Karbala would soften the tragic effect. The truth, of course, is “Naqqan Sahib” had never said “water” was available. He simply cited sources hinting at such a possibility.

Worst was the treatment of poet Yaas Yagana Changezi, a contemporary of Jigar, Firaq and Josh. Yagana wrote: “Samajh mein kuch nahee ata,/ Parhey jaaney se kya hasil?/ Namazon mein hain kuch maaney,/ to pardesi zabaan kyon ho?”

In one of his “naats”, or religious songs, Yagana referred to Prophet Mohammad in less than reverent terms. He probably did not know that he had violated one of the unenforced codes: “Ba Khuda deewana baash-o/ Ba Mohammad hoshiyar.” (Take liberties with God, but be careful with Mohammad)

Dara Shikoh’s prime minister, Chandrabhan Brahman, broke the code brazenly: “Panja dar panja-e-Khuda daram/ Man che parwa e Mustafa daram.” (My hand is in the hand of God: Why should I worry about Mohammad?)

It reflects in the backward slide of a tolerant culture that Yagana did not go scot-free. His face was blackened and he was given a donkey ride through the old city.

The liberal streak in the “ulema” of Lucknow comes out in bold relief in an incident concerning Josh Malihabadi. His Marsia titled “Hussain and Revolution” became a cult poem even in devout circles. Josh became a popular invitee to various Imambaras of Lucknow, indeed across the country, including Hyderabad. He built up a reputation for Marsias, second only to the great Mir Anis. A group of orthodox Shias turned up at the residence of the great Alim of his age, Maulana Naasir ul Millat, armed with a complaint. Josh, devoted to liquor (he called it Kaaba e khaas o aam), should be banned from reciting Marsias from pulpits in “our sacred imambaras”.

After reading Josh’s Marsias, the Maulana invited the complainants and Josh. What happened next was dramatic. The maulana spread out his personal prayer mat for Josh and invited him to recite “Hussain and Inquilab”. The message from the maulana was straightforward: it would be wrong to occupy the pulpit inebriated.

This was the open mindedness Maulana Kalbe Sadiq inherited from the generations of “ulema”. From the 1990s he had pleaded: Even if the Muslims win the Ram Janmabhoomi land dispute, they should gift the land to the Hindus. “You will win their goodwill.” His point was that a Muslim can turn towards Ka’aba and say his prayers anywhere. “Ram is central to the Hindu ethos.” He initiated the joint Shia-Sunni namaz, allowing the Sunni cleric to take the lead.

He traced Muslim backwardness to a singular lack of education and dedicated his life to establishing non-sectarian institutions in every possible field. But he died a disappointed man because of the expanding communalism and a community trapped in the snare of selfish political leaders.

Sitaron Se Aage Jahaan Aur Bhi Hain

Sitaron Se Aage Jahaan Aur Bhi Hain; Abhi Ishq Ke Imtihan Aur Bhi Hain (Beyond the stars are even more worlds, there are still even more tests of passion). These beautiful lines were written by Allama Iqbal, one of the greatest philosophers and Urdu poets of all times. He was better known for writing revolutionary and inspirational poems.

I am stressing on these lines because these inspire the person to explore the unexplored horizons, it suggests that one must try continuously to achieve the desired goals. In fact, I am not the only one who is deeply impressed by charm of these verses, noted astronaut Kalpana Chawla, was also the great fan of Allama Iqbal. On various occasions, she had recited these awesome verses by Iqbal.

During college days, one of my Sikh friends always recites these lines. When inquired about the reason of his fondness, he replied that every word in this poem is flawless, the class of this poem is matchless and every line inspires him to do continuous effort towards achieving the success.

It may be recalled that Saare Jahan Se Accha Hindostan Hamara, also known as the Tarana-e-Hind (song of India) was written by Allama Iqbal. School children in many Indian schools still recite another marvellous poem Lab Pe Aati Hai Dua Banke Tamanna Meri.

Recently, on the 9th day of November, the world has celebrated his 135th birthday, but many of us are not actually aware of it. Ironically, like other litterateurs, we forgot Iqbal, which I think is bad.

FULL POEM WITH ENGLISH TRANSLATION:

Sitaron Se Aage Jahaan Aur Bhi Hain,
Abhi Ishq Ke Imtihan Aur Bhi Hain

(Beyond the stars are even more worlds
There are still even more tests of passion)

Tihi Zindagi Ke Nahin Yeh Fazaayein
Yahan Sainkadon Kaaravaan Aur Bhi Hain

(These expanses are not devoid of life
Here there are hundreds of other caravans too)

Qanaa'at Nah Kar Aalam-e-Rang-o-Bu Par
Chaman Aur Bhi, Aashiyaan Aur Bhi Hain!

(Don't be contented with the world of colour and scent
There are other gardens, other nests (resting places), too)

Agar Kho Gaya Ek Nasheman Tho Kya Gham
Muqaamaat-e-Aah-o-Fughaan Aur Bhi Hain!

(If a nest (home) was lost, what's the [cause of] grief?
There are other places for sighing and lamenting)

Tu Shaaheen Hai, Parvaaz Hai Kaam Tera
Tere Saamne Aasmaan Aur Bhi Hain

(You are a falcon, your task is to fly
Before you there are other skies as well to cover)

Isi Roz-o-Shab Mein Ulajh Kar Nah Rah Jaa
Kih Tere Zamaan-o-Makaan Aur Bhi Hain

(Don't remain entangled, in this day-and-night
For you have other times-and-places too)

Gaye Din Ke Tanhaa Thaa Main Anjuman Mein
Yahaan Ab Mere Raaz-Daan Aur Bhi Hain!

(The days are gone when I was alone in the gathering
Here, now, I have other secret-sharers too).

Photography, a Wonderful Career Option

If you have a penchant for clicking pictures reflecting different shades of life then photography is the best career option for you. Although this profession demands a creative eye with a visual imagination, yet a technical qualification helps in enhancing the creative side.

As a professional photographer, you need to achieve some technical brilliance regarding light, camera angle, colour balance, colour composition and other aspects. The quality of picture also depends on the type of camera used. But, creativity is the soul of a photograph. You need to make a proper balance between, light, colour and other technical aspects to make sure that your image is a picture perfect image.

Computer knowledge also helps in gaining technical expertise. You can also learn different lighting skills, digital imaging skills and other things using the Internet. Many institutes offer certificate and degree programmes on photography. These institutes also organise workshops to teach various aspects related to photography.

To get started, it is good to get on-the-job training at an established organisation. It will help developing technical proficiency, business acumen and an idea of practical problems faced by professional photographers.

Submission of portfolio to established organisations, agencies and other people associated with the industry is also helpful in gaining popularity. This will also build confidence in you. Moreover, the feedback received from concerned persons also help in improving your shortcomings.

But, it is tough profession that requires time and patience. Days will be harsh in the initial stage. As soon as you get recognition, you will receive a better remuneration. Fashion magazines, newspapers and professional studios pay batter salaries with other benefits. You can also start your own studio. In case, you are self-employed, you can make good money depending on the nature of the assignment.

Shettar to take oath as Karnataka CM on Wednesday morning

Bangalore: After day-long hankering over power spoils, Karnataka’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party today elected Rural Development Minister Jagadish Shettar as leader of its legislature wing, paving the way for him become chief minister replacing DV Sadananda Gowda.

Shettar will take oath Wednesday morning, a spokesman for the party told reporters after the meeting which was held five hours after the scheduled time as Gowda’s supporters wanted the party to announce his appointment as state party chief and also create two posts of deputy chief ministers.

The meeting was scheduled to begin at 11 am today but was convened only around 4 pm as party’s senior leaders Arun Jaitley and Rajnath Singh brokered peace between the warring factions led by Gowda and state BJP chief KS Eshwarappa on one side and former chief minister BS  Yeddyurappa on the other.

A decision on the number of deputy chief ministers and who will hold the posts as also a position for Gowda would be announced after further meetings in New Delhi, party sources said.

IANS

Tom, Katie eye settlement

NEW YORK (Reuters) – Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes were seeking ways to settle their divorce as the Hollywood stars entered the second week of a widely followed custody battle that has put their young daughter and the Church of Scientology in the media glare.

Celebrity website TMZ.com, citing an unnamed source, reported that Holmes, 33, and Cruise, 50, are negotiating visitation, child support and a property settlement. People magazine made similar claims and said the estranged couple wishes to avoid airing marital issues in court.

Attorneys for Cruise and Holmes did not return requests for comment on Sunday (Monday in Manila), but Holmes was photographed a day earlier entering her attorney’s office in New York.

In a move that Cruise’s spokeswoman said left the “Mission: Impossible” star “deeply saddened,” Holmes filed divorce papers in New York in late June, ahead of last week’s U.S. Independence Day holiday, citing irreconcilable differences.

According to her attorneys, Holmes is seeking sole custody of their 6-year-old daughter, Suri, and much speculation has surfaced that Holmes wants to raise the young girl outside the Church of Scientology, of which Cruise is a key member. The estranged couple married in 2006.