John Kerry does a rope trick : indictment of Narendra Modi and praise of "sabka saath:sabka vikas"

New Delhi/ Varanasi. July 29. On the eve of his India trip secretary of state John Kerry performed a rope trick, the great India art of deception. He released a "Report on International religious freedom-2013" which criticised Indian governments ( union and states ) for not protecting rights of minorities, Christians, Muslims, Sikhs and Buddhists etc.. The report especially targets Gujarat government for failing to protect minorities (Muslims) during 2002 riots and not pursuing legal cases against guilty people. 

                                            The US government does a favour to Prime Minister Narendra Modi that this time the report does not mention him by name as an instigator of Gujarat riots but the contents of this and earlier reports are quite clear that Uncle Sam is in no mood to give a clean chit to Modi. The report is also highly critical of Sangh Parivar's Hindutva ideology and its anti religious conversion campaigns. 

                                            Kerry called the report “a clear-eyed objective look at the state of religious freedom around the world,” adding “it does directly shine a light in a way that makes some countries – even some of our friends – uncomfortable.” Candid enough!

                                            Strangely enough, on the same day Kerry praised Modi's Mantra of "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas" (together we all ; development for all ). How genuine is US administration's change of heart ? Any comfort for Mr Modi ?

                                            It is a real Agnipariksha of Modi how he deals with the double talk of  US administration.

Varanasi : So, Our Man in Parliament speaks English ! And Quite Fluently !!

Varanasi / New Delhi. July 1 .So, here is yet another revelation; our man in Parliament speaks English; and that too quite fluently. The Gaurdian was not quite off the mark when it published its historic editorial on India's 2014 general elections :- Final Departure of British Raj;  Narendra modi only assured the Firangi retainers that all is not lost, they can still remember that once upon a time there was British Raj in India.

                                             Occasion was the launch of  PSLV carrying five satellites from 'developed' countries; PSLV performed its fete successfully. Modi keeping in mind the gathering, consisting of scientists, spoke in English, in spaces switching over to his natural language- Hindi. How was his communication level in these two languages, comparatively ?

                                             For Banarasis, it was the first occasion when they heard our man in parliament speaking English. He spoke extemporally , that too in English ! Did he memorize his speech or some body was there doing prompting ? Impossible skeptics, Banarasis raise doubts. It was live speech and whole nation watched and listened the Modi's oratory skill, it was really an extempore speech and speaker was quite at ease and confident. When ever he had to add some lively inputs  he switched over to Hindi.

                                             The Guardian, in its ' Final departure of British Raj' editorial also took note of language skill of Indian leaders. It wrote, " Modi is not a natural English speaker ";  as if it was one of the proofs that the colonialist had left the wild sub-continent with no left overs. His British biographer said, Modi interacted with him in English ; the so called national media reported that Modi interacted with US ambassador 'poor'  Nancy Powell in halting English, Powell had to utter some sentences in broken Hindi to establish some sort of  rapport with a hard nut. This is all known to us before the speaker himself opened his mouth in Sriharikota.

                                            A few days ago a foreign correspondent recalled that about 15 years ago he participated with Modi in a TV debate where the then  BJP office bearer  put forward his opinion in forceful English. The correspondent, however, added,  Modi spoke in heavily accented English. One wonders how to describe the peculiar  accent of Modi's English, was it Hinglish tone or Gujarati dhokla flavour. Was it pleasant or annoying ?

                                          We Banarasis don't believe in niceties of language. You can deliver sermons or you can hurl score of galis. It is all the same for us. The only condition is-  it should be sweet and refreshing and on this count Modi failed ! Fortunately.

                                          His Hindi oration, though a nasal voice, a technical fault according to sangeet martand, is heart felt- penetrating and convincing . English version is just like official press release, soulless and marred with faulty  pronunciation and emphasis; for example "rich culture" becomes " reech culture". More over it was not pleasant at all.

                                         In Hindi he is a Koyal ( cuckoo) and in English he is a Kauaa ( crow).

Modi, Sushma should press for memorial of Veer 

Savarkar in Marseilles ( France ) 

New Delhi/ Varanasi. June 29. Foreign Affairs Minister of France, Mr. Laurent Fabius begins his four day official visit to India from June 29 , apparently with an invitation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Paris at the earliest.

                                                            France, as an 'old Europe' was a traditional friend of India and even in its 'new Europe' avatara is keen to further bilateral relations. Mr Fabius visit offers an opportunity to Modi to press for a long pending project to built a memorial in Marseilles in france , where Veer Savarkar performed an extraordinary fete of courage and bravery by jumping into sea from a British ship and reach shore of France in July, 1910.  Veer savarkar's fete inspired generations of revolutionaries and freedom fighters and was recorded in the history books in golden letters . France initially rejected the request of British imperialist to hand over the detainee and this led to an international dispute. The case was later decided in international court where the verdict was in favour of the barbarians. Savarkar was sent to kaala paani to serve double life imprisonment. France took it as a national humiliation and government there narrowly survived.

                                                                       France, to redeem itself from national shame suffered a century ago, agreed  in 2010, the centenary year of the great leap ,  to build a memorial honoring Veer Savarkar in Marseilles, who was considered an epitome of struggle against colonialism and imperialism. Manmohan - Sonia regime showed no interest and pygmies launched a campaign against any memorial here in India or  there in Marsielles in honour of Savarkar. Now, the electorates of the country have thrown the old regime into dustbin and pygmies are licking their wounds. One only hopes that at least Sonia Gandhi would ultimately recognize that as a president of India's oldest political party, it was expected from her not to disparage but to respect national heroes,even if some of them differ from Congress ideology. Father of nation,  Mahatma Gandhi, who was an anti-thesis of Savarkar, always held the latter in high esteem. Marxist thinker M N Roy virtually worshiped Savarkar and touched his feet when they met  in Bombay.

                                                                   During electioneering Modi spent a few minutes in the room of the Pune's Fergusson college hostel where Savarkar once lived as a student. Modi later said that  he felt vibration of national commitment and sacrifice in the hostel room.

                                                                               A memorial of Veer Savarkar on the beaches of Marseilles will be as significant as the highest statue of Sardar Patel in the middle of Narmada river in Gujarat. And like bringing back ashes of great revolutionary Shyamji Krishna Varma for immerssion in holy Ganga and Sabarmati, Modi will be instrumental in honouring yet another national hero on foreign land.

                                                                                      Modi should make it a point to visit Marseilles when ever he visits France and if by then the memorial was completed he should offer a few flowers to Veer Savarkar on behalf of the nation.

                                  Renaming the blog : Seeing the world from Varanasi prism

                                                         "Varanasi : Our Man in Parliament"

                                                 Elections are over and Banarasis elected their representative for lower house of the Parliament of world largest democracy. And ' our man in Parliament ' happens to be Prime Minister of India .This blog was started to cover the historic 2014 Lok Sabha elections which produced an amazing outcome. Presence of Narendra Modi and Arvind Kejriwal in the election fray generated a lot of interest in this constituency and after many, many years in the ancient city of Varanasi widely recognized as spiritual capital of India. Now, with Modi in Parliament with a promise to rejuvenate the holy city, it is an imperative to keep interest alive in the happenings of this oldest city on the planet, spiritually a cosmos and in this-worldly term, a global village.

                                            The blog  attempts to report the developments in the city  and analyse and see national and international events from Varanasi prism.

Narendra Modi ! Congratulations for becoming Banarasi !!

Varanasi May 29. Varanasi  welcomes its  newest  citizen , newest Banarasi, Narendra Modi. It is a privilege to you to represent City of Light, the home of Baba Vishwanath, Maa Annapurna and Kala Bhairav. Maa Ganga perhaps has found her son, the great Bhishma in you.

 Mata cha parvati devi, pita devo maheshwarah
Bandhvah Shivabhaktah cha swadesho bhuvanah triyam

Narendra Modi tweets
 I will represent Varanasi in Lok Sabha & I look forward to this wonderful opportunity to serve Ganga Maa & work for Varanasi’s development.
I assure people of Vadodara I will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that Vadodara's development scales newer heights in the years to come
Resigned from Vadodara LS seat. Due to people's affection got elected by historic margin. Will always remain grateful to people of Vadodara.

Narendra Modi : India's Putin ?

Then, Manmohan Singh a Yeltsin and Arvind Kejriwal, "Pussy riot" 

Varanasi, May 22. Narendra Modi, " our man in Parliament " is being compared with almost every world leader , contemporary or from earlier generation. Political commentator from Washington to Beijing are busy in  deciphering  Narendra Modi phenomenon in the context of contemporary history. His personality, ideology and life history are being evaluated in reference to Ronald Reagan , Nixon (United States), Shinzo Abe (Japan), Erdogan (Turkey) , Margret Thatcher (United Kingdom) and Vladimir Putin (Russia).

                                                        Political developments in two time tested friends, India and Russia appear to be similar if we take into accounts happenings of last two decades. And it bring us to speculate that Modi is much like a Putin who transformed Russia from disaster to crowning glory . He inherited a Russia , bankrupt and crumbled but with in a short period of time  he restored Russia's world stature, political as well as economic. His predecessor  Yeltsin left a Russia in  very bad shape that can very well  be compared with Manmohan Singh's India. In fact, Manmohan was worse than Yeltsin as the latter can at least  be credited for choosing a worthy successor in Putin. In India it is left to  800 million  voters to find a redeemer for the nation and they acted, as ever, wisely  in electing  Narendra Modi, who inherits a country   low in  self confidence and with  shattered institutions.

                                                     Putin as a young KGB agent saw  the collapse of Soviet Union and national shame experienced by  proud people. He knew first hand the evil designs of western countries and their well knit network put in work  to capitulate independent and sovereign countries. Once at the helm he slowly rebuilt the Russia , brick by brick, to restore its global influence and glory.

                                                   Narendra Modi has a modest background lacking a wider world view and knowledge of mudus operandi of hostile powers. After being installed as a Chief Minister of Gujarat and subsequent developments including Godhra Train burning and rioting , Modi went through an Agnipariksha, and come out of it like purified gold. Putin was at least fortunate that in early years of his presidency he was a darling of western media, Modi , on the other hand , faced the wrath of western countries their Indian retainers the very next year of his tenure and  it remained continued for full 12 years . By sheer luck or divine prudence he escaped a jail term in India or in any other country, he was accused of massacres , genocide, pogrom of innocent Muslims in Gujarat. Finally India voters destroyed the Gujarat Riot Industry infrastructure, once for all . The ordeal suffered by Modi must have made him as wiser as Putin.

                                                 Today Putin is being portrayed in western media as a Hitler ; Modi just before May 16 was being portrayed in the similar manner. Today Barack Obama is showing an olive branch to Modi by inviting him to Washington for working together to strengthen strategic partnership. The US officials are announcing from rooftop that an A1 visa would be granted to Modi. But what about normal visa.? One wonders that even today if Modi wants to visit United States as a private citizen would he be allowed to visit "land of mammon"" ( term used by Mahatma Gandhi).

                  One hopes that Modi would like to  identify India with BRICS countries, Russia, China, Brazil and South Africa.

                                                 Modi yet to spell out his world view and foreign policy priorities ; but during electioneering especially in Varanasi he  spoke of World teacher ( Vishwa Guru ) role for India. And as Russian ideologue Alexander Dugin has said , if Russia has a vision of Eurasia then India should strive for Greater India. Modi's alma mater RSS always believes in Greater India and as a Prime Minster countrymen expect from him to work for realizing this civilizational role. Of course, as India has never been an expansionist,  politically or militarily, this Greater India project  is all about soft diplomacy . 

                                              So, if Modi is a Putin then Manmohan Singh is all but Yeltsin. And what about Broom Messiah, Arvind Kejriwal ? Lodged in Tihar Jail he appears to be Pussy Riot, entertaining  people on roads and courts.

Should Narendra Modi Visit United States ? First, Modi Should Read US Religious Commission report- 2014
        

 Varanasi, May 21. Should Narendra Modi Visit United States, the erstwhile sole superpower who demonized an elected Chief minister of world's largest democracy for almost a decade? The US disdain for Modi can only be rivaled by its vicious campaign against Cuban revolutionary leader Fidel Castro. But in a sense US venom spewed against Modi was more lethal, as the fight against Castro was essentially ideological one and part of Geo Strategic policies. Attack on Modi has been individual based and he has been put in the  category of  blood thirsty warlord of lawless African region and leaders accused of committing crimes against humanity. For almost a decade Modi was like Idi Amin , whom western media accused of cannibalism and what not.

                                    According to media reports  President Obama  telephoned Prime Minister-designate Narendra Modi  on May 16 and invited him to visit Washington  to further strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries. The White House said the President called Modi to congratulate him on the Bharatiya Janata Party's success in India's  elections. The President noted he looks forward to working closely with Mr Modi to fulfill the extraordinary promise of the US-India strategic partnership.

                                    Modi took almost three days to acknowledge Obama's gesture in a tweet -                                             Narendra Modi ‏@narendramodi  May 19

In our conversation, @BarackObama & I talked about further strengthening India-USA strategic partnership that will help both nations.

                                   It was not clear whether delay was a deliberate snub to Obama or just normal behavior. One wonder whether Obama and Modi  read or were aware of the report of United States
 Commission on International Religious Freedom ( USCIRF) for Year 2014, released on April 30, when Lok Sabha elections were on peak. The report as usual evaluated the status of religious freedom in different countries including India.
                                  It is intriguing why the  USCIRF report was not covered by Indian media. Was it suppressed by interest parties or just an ordinary lapse on part of media person too busy in the last phases of general elections. But since the election campaign was focused on Modi and his alleged Hindutva agenda along with communal polarization , the report was very much relevant thus enormously newsworthy.
                                   The editors of USCIRF was well aware that election process is on in India and its "findings" would have bearing on voters. In fact the report mentions the contour of electioneering in India :
" In the past year, reports of incidents of communal and religiously motivated violence against religious minorities in India increased. Non- government organisation (NGOs) and religious leaders, including from Muslim, Christian and Sikh communities attribute the increase to India's general elections and some politicians' use of religiously divisive language."

                                  Modi has been a pet whipping boy for US establishment, and Every report since year 2002 indicted him for Gujarat riots. Despite Modi being universally recognized as the front runner in the general elections  the USCIRF did not spare him in the election year of 2014. The report says:
                                 The Indian courts are still adjudicating cases stemming
                                 from large-scale Hindu-Christian communal violence in Odisha in 2007-08
                                 and large-scale Hindu-Muslim  communal violence in Gujarat in
                                 2002. NGOs, religious leaders, and human rights activists allege religious bias and                                         corruption and adjudications.(Page-122,USCIRF)
                             
                                 After questioning the competence and integrity of Indian investigation
                                 agencies and  courts, the report notes:
                           
                                " In 2013, a lower court in Gujarat found longtime Gujarat chief minister Narendra
                                 Modi – the current BJP candidate for Prime Minister – not responsible for the death of                                  a prominent Muslim Congress Party leader who was burned alive in 2002. The case
                                 was brought by the leader’s widow, and she reportedly has appealed. Several other
                                 cases where Modi has been implicated for involvement or complicity in the 2002                                          violence continue."
                                One wonders what are the " other cases ", in which Modi has been implicated.. Perhaps there might be some  dossiers against Modi  in the White House thanks to NSA snooping. The USCIRF report for Year 2013 earlier commented on conviction of former Gujarat minister Maya Kodnani that she had been made a scapegoat to safeguard Modi.
                               Now, the Yaksha Prashna , Should Modi visit United States ? The proud Indians, Gujaratis and now Banarasis say NO. Modi should visit "land of mammon" ( term used by Mahatma Gandhi) only when United states withdraws all its so called religious freedom reports regarding India  and offer unconditional apology to Indian people , Gujaratis and Banarasis. The US can not say that USCIRF is an independent body because it was very much part of state department and suggests government the policies to be followed . The USCIFR was main culprit in denial of a Visa to Modi.

                                 

Narendra Modi's Varanasi Sermon : Did He Get it Right?

Varanasi, May 18. I can imagine a conversation taking place at a Paan shop in the city over Narendra Modi's Varanasi sermon on Ganga Ghat  :
                             One Banarasi said, "Ekare bade haman jhaadu chhod delin, ab ei kahat hai jhaadu leke gali saaf kara ( For him we rejected jhaadu- read Arvind Kejriwal-, now the gentleman is saying we should take a jhaadu in our hand and clean the street ).
                            Fellow Banarasi could not believe this - " Aisan kahlas" ( really? he said this)
                            Former one said, not only this he insulted Banarasi Paan and chided us for chewing Paan and spitting here and there. Panwadi, who was listening the running commentary of Varanasi sermon, stopped applying kattcha and chuna on Paan leaf and with wide open eyes asked,  " sachcho! ei kahlas"     ( really? he said this).  With a pichch in naali below, the narrator said , "Yes, Yes."
                            Across the road a BJP banner is still hanging :
                            Banaras Ka Aam , Banaras Ka Paan
                            Sabse Upar Banaras Ki  Shaan
                             Banarasis are wondering why is Modi showing  disrespect to world famous Banarasi Paan ? And how can he claim to be a representative of Varanasi without performing  "Mukhshodhan" with a Banarasi  Paan . Contrary to Modi's Paan bashing, challenger Arvind Kejriwal made it a point to visit Keshav Paan Bhandar and demanded a Meetha Paan. There the Jhaadu messiah was gheraoed for more than a hour by Modi supporters and in the meantime he was offered Paans at regular interval. Panwadi refused to accept money for this.  As the saying goes- one should learn good things  even from enemies and rivals, Modi should emulate Kejriwal and try to develop Banarasi fineness like chewing Paan.
                             Narendra Modi's Maiden speech on Ganga ghats was emotional and touching one and he spoke as a son of Varanasi. It is apparent that Ganga is his mother and Baba Vishwanath is his guardian and speech left  little doubt that he will be "our man in Parliament".
                               Like a Banarasi he taunted fellow Banarasis - Mein janta hun ki aapse kaam lena bahut mushkil hai " ( I know how difficult it is to make you do a thing). He got it right. Then he said, Aisa nahin hai ki mein aapke baare mein janta nahin hun ( Don't think I don't know about you). Here, Banarasis doubt this claim. Did he really know all about Banarasis ? Their lifestyle, temperament, likes and dislikes ? Banarasis think he is still a learner and there is much home work to do before getting full initiation in Banarasiness.
                              Modi said he wanted to start a nationwide clean India mission from Varanasi . And for this mission  to succeed Banarasis should take  responsibility. In other words they should take a jhaadu in their hands and clean the street. And then he said something strange. He offended Banarasis for their Paan chewing habit. Prime minister designate said : Paan khakar Bharat Mata Ki Jai Bolna Aur pichch se pinchakari marna ( with Paan filled mouth raising slogan in praise of Bharat Mata Ki Jai and then spewing red mixture here and there)
                             Writing this post while mouth is full of Paan mixture before I clear my mouth in a nearby washbasin for making room for another Paan, I simply wonder over the remark of Modi regarding cleanliness and "bad" habit of chewing Paan. How so early he is drifting form his newly acquired Banarasi identity.  And Banarasis are duty bound to defend their God sent Paan and their right to enjoy it as much as they like.
                             First of all Banarasis would like to know from his elected representative why he is so much obsessed with cleanliness. We  understand Modi's native town is Vadnagar, a famous Shaivite pilgrimage centre, a mini Varanasi. So we presume he is a Shaivaite like us Banarasis. Then why he is so keen to Vaishanavite obsession of cleanliness. Why is he doing a Vidya Balan to Banarasis : Jahan soch hai vahan Shauchalaya hai ( where there is  thinking , there exists a latrine ) . Banarasis don't believe in this thesis.  We know that soch is our city and shauchalayas are everywhere else in the world .
                          Modi should prioritize his Varanasi mission and refrain undermining social habits of Banarasis.

Nrendra Modi's Victory in Varanasi (Deciphering Varanasi Mandate) II

      Varanasi battleground was not an easy one for Modi or BJP, so his victory was not an ordinary win.  Arvind Kejriwal, was not an ordinary challenger either ; he was at his best during electioneering. But for  Kejriwal's  advantage or disadvantage, thousands of warriors who descended in the holy city with their own agendas spoiled his whole campaign.  Left, liberals, ultra left, centrist, communalists, jehadis and jehadi apologists all remained camped in the holy city for almost a month. Their rumour mongering machine was working 24x7 from Varanasi to Washington.
          Many times it was heard that tide  started turning against Modi in final stages. Just on the eve of polling it was claimed that a formidable polarization has taken place involving Muslims , Yadavs, OBCs and Dalits. Secular warriors tried all  their  tricks to forge an anti Modi front invoking " Gujarat riot industry" and "Quam Ka Sawal Hai".
          In fact Modi in his victory in Varanasi has defeated the same forces against whom he has been fighting all these years in Gujarat.
          For Kejriwal Varanasi was a disaster, a blunder which he would  regret for years. He not only lost an election, he lost sympathy of Banarasis. As I have noted in a previous post, Banarasi psyche matches with Kejriwal. Banarasis are born rebels , Varanasi is a birthplace of public protests. In Varanasi everyone consider himself  a Guru and Raja. And this is the essence of egalitarianism and  Kejriwal represents these trends more than any other leader of India. He should have been a natural representative of  Varanasi. But he misjudged the situation and fell in trap of misguided people who have their own interests.
          Dear Mr Kejriwal,  keep coming to Varanasi . you are one of us. In the meantime let Modi cherish honour of being representative of world oldest living city, the microcosm of India.

  Narendra Modi's Win : Deciphering the    Varanasi Mandate

 ( Reproducing my old post regarding the mandate of Varanasi. In a highly polarized electioneering - communal as well as   ideological- it was risky to anticipate and declare victory of Modi - even before single vote cast- in God's Own Constituency. But only a blind could have missed the writings on the walls. And now it it is time to update and decipher the mandate of Varanasi in continuation of the old post)

Varanasi / New Delhi.  May 16/ May 4. It is not jumping the EVMs to suggest Narendra Modi that he must retain Varanasi Lok Sabha Seat. Actually, there is no need to suggest (request is out of question) Modi that he should vacate Vadodara seat in favour of Varanasi. Apart from Grand Road Show, Banarasis done a great favour to Modi by overwhelmingly supporting him. So, let us begin with that Modi won the Varanasi seat by margin of 1 (one) vote.  (actually he won by huge margin)

                          Now it is also appropriate time to decipher the mandate of Varanasi. It is pertinent as after the election results are announced, no body would talk about Varanasi, whom political pundits are presently forced to acknowledge as a great city, microcosm of India, eternal city, spiritual capital of India  and what not.

                          From personal experience , Banarasis know well, that Varanasi gradually lost its pivotal position in national affairs. Actually the great city disappeared from national radar and so-called national media scene. While heading Varanasi Bureau of a National News Agency I was a witness to the eclipse of   "city of light". Can one imagine that in Vatican and Kabaa of India, National News Agencies don't have a regular office and correspondent. While in Delhi I noticed that Varanasi found space in National newspapers only when there was a terrorist strike in a temple or on Ganga Ghat. After the Death of Bismillah Khan , cultural czars of Delhi lost all interest in Varanasi.

                          Advent of Narendra Modi and Kejriwal renewed some interest in Varanasi, though cultural and spiritual ignorance about Kashi's past or present is all pervasive- little you know about cities like Varanasi, greater would be your stature.

                          So now it is time to decipher mandate of Varanasi and Narendra Modi should ponder over  it here and now.First of all he should bow before people of Varanasi that they gave him  honour to represent the city; Modi is  chosen as successor of Annie Besant, Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, Dr Bhagwan Das, Sampurnanand , Pandit Kamlapati Tripathi and Raj Narayan.

                        It is mirage to expect from a member of Parliament or even a Prime Minister, that he would revive or restore the spiritual, intellectual, cultural and social status of Varanasi. To begin with , Modi should announce, after swearing in , a time bound programme for cleansing of Ganga and improving the infrastructure of the city. He should not make a folly of thinking in term of creating a London, a Hon Kong, a Singapore on the left bank of Ganga . The financial resources which are being dumped in the desert city like Delhi should be invested in the city of god.

                     Varanasi is crucial for the survival of mankind ; Modi can be a Nimitta in this Yagna.

                      And he should remember that ultimately it is Linga of Shiva who will decide the fate of this great city not any Prime Minister or President.    (continued)

                           

                    Kejriwal visits Pappu Tea Shop : Aap-Bhajapa Bhai Bhai

Varanasi, May 11, Electioneering is over and Banarasiness returns back. Arvind Kejriwal was welcomed at Pappu Tea Shop by the same people who, the other day, were jeering and opposing him - Vapas Jao, Vapas Jao. Aap-Bhajapa Bhai Bhai bonhomie prevailed in Assi locality, and volatility is all gone.
                              What went wrong in the last few weeks when there were incurring attacks, verbal and physical,  reported in city specially in Assi and Lanka area near Banaras Hindu University (BHU).As the foreign crusaders started leaving the city the atmosphere is suddenly changed . The city is in its usual self. Laughing,smiling, hurling abuse to each other as a daily ritual and drinking tea and consuming Bhang ki goli or gola.
                              Thousands of outsiders , who descended in the city would return to their lands-almost from  every part of India and some of them from abroad. What memories would they carry and what impression Banarasis hold of them? Frankly speaking for Banarasis they were nuisance. Perhaps they were needed in Aap's campaign, as for Kejriwal and his team, Varanasi was a new place with little ground level organisational network. But somehow the committed and energetic supporters could not gauge the mood and temperament of the holy city.
                               Political workers never quarrel among themselves; it is against their political training. The animosity among political workers were only seen during pre-emergency period when Indira Gandhi demonized opposition leaders as CIA agents. During emergency BHU student leaders and political activists in the city suffered a lot. But that was exception.
                              Would Kejriwal  ponder over his language and narratives ? Sab Neta Chor Hain can not be a narrative in Indian politics. Coming Varanasi only to defeat Narendra Modi was second mistake of Kejriwal. Nation would be saved if Modi is defeated in Varanasi and Nation would go to dogs if he wins in Varanasi , is a strange argument. Since Kejriwal is now half Banarasi he must learn from Banaras how to refine his language, which did not offend anyone. 
                             We Banarasis  are not soft spoken people; we use rustic language  and are very fond of Gali. In fact once lord Shiva was so annoyed  that he choked vocal cord of  Banarasis and made them voiceless - moving dumb. Banarasis could not utter a word leave alone gali. Mother was perturbed at the Durdasha of her children  and felt pity for them. She urged her spouse to restore voice to Banarasis. " You don't know them-- they are bad mouths, they would start calling names," Shiva tried to argue. But finally, Ashutosh relented and Banarasis got back their voice. And the first roar came from Banarasis , BH0..BHO..BHO...  SAAAAA  SAAAA  and .... something. Mother covered her ears and looked at Shiva in helplessness, The Lord said, " You wanted it and You got it ".
                         Dear Mr Kejriwal, even Gali can be sweet and melodious, learn this from Banarasis before returning  to national capital Delhi, as a winner or a loser.

                                          Kejriwal's Appeal to Silent Voters

Varanasi, May 10. Aap leader and un-fatigued  fighter Arvind Kejriwal made a last minute appeal to voters of Varanasi in a tweet:-

Samar shesh hai nahi paap ka bhagi kewal Vyadh, 
jo tathasth hain samay likhega unka bhi Apraadh ( jab samay likhega unka bhi itihaas)
( Fight is on and no time to remain silent or spectator, as it would be noted down in history as a crime)
These lines are written by Rashtrakavi Ramdhari Singh Dinkar and became a sort of war cry during JP movement in 1974-75.
BJP's Narendra Modi also appealing voters to cast their votes in large numbers. He took a commitment from audiences- Pahle Matdan, Phir Jalpaan ( Cast Vote Before Having breakfast)

Modi Paid Tribute to Mangal Pandey : Hero of First War of Independence, 1857

Varanasi May 10. It can not be a mere coincidence. Election campaign came to an end on May 10, anniversary of First War of Independence, the day written in Indian history in golden letters about the valour and sacrifices of Indian people to throw away foreign yoke.
                           And also it can not be mere coincidence that all the three actors of the 2014 Lok Sabha elections are in Varanasi , the place where Mother Goddess incarnate Rani Lakshmibai was born. Birthplace of Rani of Jhansi is in Assi locality of the holy city. Modi, Rahul and Kejriwal, all three represent spirit of immortal India in their own way,  though in the heat of election campaign they appear hostile rivals. The urge of change is in the air and voters would decide who among these three better serves their desire of change.
                          For Modi it is time to relax. In his last election rally in Ballia, the land of revolution, he paid tribute to Mangal Pnadey who heralded, the 1857 liberation war. Ballia was also maternal home of Veer Kunwar Singh, the legendary fighter of 1857, who defeated British army in many battles.
                          Modi reminded people his Bharat Bhraman, From Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Dwarka to Itanagar. Hundreds and thousands of election rallies he addressed. He emerged as a Yoddha, a war veteran, of 2014 democratic battle. His war was just or unjust, it is for the people of India to decide, but one must acknowledge his courage, commitment and labour. Rahul and Kejriwal also played important part in setting the political agenda of the elections.
                       There is a sense of apprehension in political environment as Modi put it- May 16 Ke Baad Kya Hoga? ( what will happen after May 16 ) Would it be a decisive mandate in favour of a leader and an alliance or a fractured mandate ? Would the politics of vendetta, character assassination and destabilization plague the country. It is the last thing countrymen want. The Spirit of 1857 shall inspire us to overcome differences and work together for a better India.  Only 125 crore people can bring Achhe Din not an individual or a party or an alliance.

MAY 10, 2014. 
157th Anniversary of  1857, First War of Independence : A Grand Finale of General Elections in World's Largest Democracy

Varanasi, May 10. Election campaign for Lok Sabha elections came to an end on the very day when soldiers, hundreds miles away from Varanasi, in Meerut in 1857, fired shots to announce that First War of Indian Independence begins.
                                 On 157th anniversary of 1857, Varanasi was the  main  battleground where  political parties fought their last war to win over heart and minds of voters. It has to be Varanasi.
                                  Varanasi is birthplace of Veerangana Lakshmibai. At a short distance from The Pappu Tea Shop is located the birthplace of Rani of Jhansi.
                                I am not sure whether political leaders today recalled the Fist War of Independence in their election speeches, nevertheless, the day is very significant. 157 years after the 1857, the nation is at the cross road. Countrymen are aspiring and hoping for change. And the political characters who are at the centre of peoples imagination, Narendra Modi, Rahul Gandhi and Arvind Kejriwal are all in Varanasi.
                                 Modi is addressing his last election rally in Ballia, the maternal home of legendary hero of 1857, Veer Kunwar Singh. Baghi Ballia has always been an inspiration for a struggle against exploitation and subjugation. In 1942 m Ballia was liberated by people.
                                Let the spirit of Varanasi and Ballia inspire the whole nation.

MAY 10, 2014. 
157th Anniversary of  1857, First War of Independence : A Grand Finale of General Elections in World's Largest Democracy

           Varanasi : Too Late For Congress

Varanasi May 10.. Is it too late for Congress to project itself as main challenger to Narendra Modi? Why Rahul Gandhi  waited Modi to storm Amethi before himself storming the saffron bastion?
                            Pro and Anti Modi votes are perhaps already settled and there is a little possibility of new equations. But then you never know. Qatal Ki Raat Baki Hai. Congress is very much in the ring.

              Varanasi : Over to Silent Voters

Varanasi May 10. The holy city is again witnessing a massive roadshow today led by Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi. Congress candidate Ajay Rai showed his support base and popularity. For Banarasis size of crowd is no surprise.
                             The imagery of roadshow is often misleading and it is hard to predict its impact. Main political parties have showed their strength on roads. Now it is time to take silent voters into account, only they will decide who represents God's Own Constituency.

             Who Is Number Two In Varanasi- Yet Not Clear
                            Perhaps Arvind Kejriwal

Varanasi May 10. Last day of electioneering in the God's Own Constituency and still not clear who would be main challenger to Narendra Modi. Today's massive road show by Kejriwal certainly made him favorite Number Two. Most of the political observers are of opinion that Muslims finally tilted towards Aap leader. Kejriwal received tumultuous welcome in Muslim localities. Even Modi supporters now admit that Kejriwal is the main rival and road show forced them to admit , for the first time,  that victory margin might be narrow. But even this 'narrow' is huge.  So is it the final word in this hotly contested elections? Perhaps not.
                        Many analysts and Muslim vote bankers are waiting for Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's roadshow today. Rahul's Road Show would begin from Peeli Kothi, a Muslim locality, and would cover main parts including Muslim areas. Congress candidate Ajay Rai has a strong personal following and could muster 5 to 10 thousand people on his own.These followers are capable of booth management to ensure maximum votes of supporters are polled. Despite the popularity of Kejriwal and cross section support to Aap, the party is weak on this count. There are about 1600 polling booths and at every booth a party needs active workers. Would Muslims prefer a strongman over a suave one.?  Congress is banking on distant possibility of winning minority support. That will change the 'Number Two' calculations.
                      Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav would also lead the Samajwadi Party march today in the city, His party's poll campaign has been lackluster. Would he seek vote for his candidate or give a tacit support to anybody else to make Modi's march to New Delhi difficult ?
                     Meanwhile administration has taken steps to expel outsiders from the city before polling. It is doubtful that outsiders would leave the city and  in a holy where floating population is very large, it is very difficult to identify who is genuine tourist and pilgrim and who is political activist.
                      

                      Narendra Modi and Muslims of Varanasi

                                    A Thaw Possible?

Varanasi may 9. Narendra Modi's motorcade passed though 500 metre stretch of Madanpura this evening peacefully and intelligence staff and security men had a sigh of relief. Sudden electricity failure, just when motorcade is about to enter the densely populated Muslim locality tested nerves of the administration.To their relief power cut was only for few minutes. Stereotypes still rule much of the election narratives inspite of all talks of change and development.
                       Eyewitnesses said that hundreds of people including women at the balcony watched motorcade passing through Madanpura. There was no curiosity, no enthusiasm and most importantly no anxiety. The man inside the heavily guarded vehicle was not welcomed with garlands or flower petals as the case in the remaining 4.5 km route.
                      Opponents of Modi are at least agree on one point- Modi should not get a single Muslim vote. The rivals aspiring for second place in the election fray are more or less using same language against Modi- butcher of Gujarat, nemesis of secularism, enemy of communal harmony. Aap leader Kejriwal did not hurl communal allegations against Modi but thousands of his secular well wishers, gathered here from all over India are telling Banarasis about Gujarat Ka Sach. Anti-Modi campaign is so much intense in Muslim localities that Modi's overtures like revival of Banarasi saree industy, improving the skill of bunkars, branding and marketing strategies for this stagnant industry fall on  deaf ears.One of my friends, who regularly visits Lullapura and Jaipura localities and interacts with cross sections of minority community said, nobody is interested in success story of Gujarati kites and potential growth of Banarasi sarees; their main concern is make their votes count. And three of Modi's challengers are competing to garner their votes.
                  Modi in his Rohania rally invoked Rahim and Raskhan besides Kabir and Tulsi. In an emotional gesture he touched the feet of centurion freedom fighter and colleague of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Colonel Nizamuddin. Will this imagery replace the image of Modi refusing  wear a skullcap?

Modi Identified himself with Kashi--  Meri Kashi! Meri Kashi!

Varanasi May 8. Narendra Modi's  de facto road show and First election meeting in his parliamentary constituency here today is remarkable in the sense that he identified himself with the holy city repeating -Meri Kashi! Meri Kashi! and Ganga Maa,
                          Little doubt that he would retain Varanasi seat in the case of winning  Vadodara seat too. Not only he well researched  the religious, spiritual and intellectual world of the holy city but is well aware of  the problem faced by common men. Problems of city's Bunkars appear to be paramount in his thinking and he committed himself improving their condition.
                        Modi while calling Varanasi as Vishwa Guru adopted a down to earth approach focusing on problems faced by local industries specially cottage industries.He tried to convince  poor Muslims that they would not be left behind in development march of the country.

                        Roadshow was the perhaps his last electioneering effort before polling on May 12 and it provided Modi Supporters an opportunity to reaffirm their vote and support.

Narendra Modi vs Kejriwal : Dharna, a deja vu for Arun Jaitley

Varanasi may 8 . For Arun Jaitley, sitting on dharna at the Sinmhadwar (main gate) of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is a deja vu. He might be arriving at this very spot after almost 40 years.
                           During JP movement , in 1974, an all India student convention was organised at the Simhadwar in which office bearers of students union from all over the country participated. A public meeting was organised here Under the shadow of statue of BHU founder Malaviyaji. Arun Jaitley (Delhi University), M Venkaiah Naidu (Osmania University) and Ravishankar Prasad (Patna University) were among the student leaders who addressed the public meeting. Four decades later These student leaders are known political leaders in the national politics.
                         Simhadwar, at the one end of the Lanka market is the political playground for the student leaders. It was a daily ritual decades ago to organize a meeting in the evening at the Simhadwar. For the students of BHU evening walk outside the sprawling campus was "Lanketing", where they used to chat with  friends at a chai ki dukan  and meet their girlfriends. "Lanketing" had additional attraction in public meeting in which student leaders, serious or non serious, used to criticize Vice Chancellor or Dean or Head of the Department. Police and Administration and Chief Proctor of the University were main target of attack.
                         There was a funny character called " Triple Singh" in Lanka locality, who was a regular speaker. Just standing on a stool or a table he would start speaking with a small or big crowd in front of him on any subject or problem plaguing  mankind. He was a seasoned speaker- in the beginning of his career he was simply Singh, then after a decade he was promoted to "Double Singh" and before his retirement he was bestowed with the title " Triple Singh".  
                        BHU alumni , scattered world over ,  still remember this great master who taught tricks of politics to hundreds of student leaders . Do you remember " Lanketing" and Triple Singh, BHU fellows?
                        Sadly, days of Lanketing were over and Triple Singh is no more.

Narendra Modi's Masterstroke : Doing a Kejriwal
       Showdown looms large in God's Own Constituency

Varanasi, May 8 . Just 60 hours before the atrocious election campaign comes to an end in world's largest democracy, the Hero executed his masterstroke- doing a Kejriwal, his challenger in God's Own Constituency.
                            Modi will address an election rally in the evening today at the outskirt of the city in Jagatpur (Rohania), about 20 km from here. And before that starts a Dharna of his colleagues at the Simhadwar of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in the morning  under the shadow of statue of great national leader and founder of BHU,  Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya. Modi will not take part in Dharna but after addressing the Jagatpur election rally his helicopter will land on the airstrip of BHU. From there his motorcade will proceed to Simhadwar, on the way to BJP central election office at Sigra/ Rathyatra. It can well be imagined that hundred perhaps thousands of people will follow his motorcade upto Sigra election office about 5 km from BHU main gate. It will be repetition of April 24 Grand Road Show, that is still afresh in the minds of supporters and opponents.
            BJP leader  Arun Jaitley  said last evening that, “to protest the Election Commission’s inaction against the Varanasi Returning Officer who denied permission for Narendra Modi’s events on May 8, the BJP has decided to hold satyagraha outside the Lanka Gate of Banaras Hindu University and Nirvachan Sadan in New Delhi” He further said ..... Narendra Modi when he arrives in Varanasi city, will be going to the election office and then to the airport. He will be in his unusual motorcade.
            
                    Though Jaitley did not talk about a Road Show, usual motorcade might easily be turned into an unusual motorcade.
   As things stand one can surmise that BJP is trying a exploit the indecisiveness of District Administration in its favour to the maximum. Administration might have denied permission to organize the election rally in Benia Bagh on the basis of genuine intelligence reports, but delay on its part provided BJP the god sent opportunity to pose as a victim.And victim naturally attract sympathy.
                         Modi just doing a Krjriwal stumped Kejriwal.  The AAP leader tweeted-
  BJP wale kabhi bhi kashi walon ki problems ko lekar dharne par nahi baithe, ab rally ki permission ke liye unke topmost neta dharna karenge?
BJP ke netaon ke iss dharne ke peeche kya rajniti hai?
( BJP leaders are doing politics by staging a dharna. They never sit on dharna on issues related to citizens' problems)
Kejriwal might be right but he can vary well pat on his back ( if it is physically possible) that BJP leaders are following his footsteps. Aap Hai To Baap Bhi Hai.

Narendra Modi versus priyanka Gandhi- " Neech Fight"

Varanasi, May 6 . Narendra Modi is just hours away to hit Ground Zero- Varanasi, the God's own constituency. And the day begins with a " Neech " controversy. Modi accuses Priyanka of using a derogatory word Neech for his politics.Obviously Modi is exploiting poor language skill of Priyanka,whose Hindi knowledge is, though,  far more superior and appealing than her brother Rahul and mother Sonia but still short of an average standard of Hindi heartland. Accompanying congress worker should have corrected her to use word Ochhi Rajniti ( shallow politics)

                        On face value Neech is a very direct and unambiguous word often used in society for "low" caste people.It is equivalent to disparaging US word Nigger used for black people. I am sure that using word Neech against a " low" caste person would immediately come under purview of THE SCHEDULED CASTES AND THE SCHEDULED TRIBES  (PREVENTION OF ATROCITIES) ACT, 1989 , with harsh punishment, jail term and huge fine. And in this case Narendra Modi just belongs to a " low" caste. Everybody including Modi himself know that he is actually leading a Hindutva and upper caste upsurge in current elections.For some it is a genuine social engineering for others it a  ploy and deceiving tactics.

                     Priyanka would shiver if she reads ruling of courts from lower(!) courts to Supreme court regarding the word Neech : respondent No.2 abused the petitioner by caste, by saying 'dedh', and 'Neech', 'Kameena', 'Kutta' , Further Kutie  Neech Jati Die etc.

                    Modi and his legal alter ego Arun Jaitly were pleased with the language poverty of Priyanka and in the final  and crucial leg of Lok sabha elections , and used this opportunity to play a caste card which in the past often went against their party the BJP.

                   The controversy highlights a often ignored trend most visible in current Lok Sabha elctions, the strong comeback of Vernacular elite in national politics. Hindi elite strike back in national scene and for the first time in India the entire political discourse moving around Hindi narratives. First time also a Hindi speaking Leader, whose English is as poor as of a  common American, claims an all India acceptability . We are told that Modi interacted with Ambassador Nancy Powell in Hindi  and the poor lady with her broken Hindi tried to convey her message to an unwilling listener. 

                Country is perhaps also witnessing that language based Elite war is subsiding now  to a great extent. The Hindi protagonist party the BJP formed a successful alliance with hardcore Dravidian parties.

                Now return back to " Neechness"- the etymology of word Neech provides some comfort to Priyanka. Neech is Sanskrit/ Hindi word. In Sanskrit  it is not specifically attached to caste but in Hindi the word has strong caste colouring. According to authentic Sankari dictionary Neech means-  lowly, small, dwarf, wicked, unworthy, mean minded etc. In Hindi dictionary the word moves around caste based hierarchy

               But both in Sanskrit and Hindi Neech also means -Cow yes Cow and too of high breed quality.

And a cow lover like Modi should not mind , gender apart, word Neech. 

               In fact the owner of a quality cow is called Neech-kin. Further more the top of pyramid is called Neech-ki. Modi is aspiring for Neech-ki political post of Indian democracy, then why to quarrel with the poor young lady who after all still uses Hindi.

                              Narendra Modi Versus Arvind Kejriwal                                                                                                                                 An occult war in Varanasi ?

Varanasi, May 6 . A disclaimer is needed before treading a dangerous and uncertain path- Banarasis don't believe in Occult. Not that Occult does not exist. Not only it does exist,  sometime it proves to be decisive in lives of humans and nations. Till someone sees a serpent in a rope, it is serpent, anyway. But ultimately all this mumbo jumbo is futile.  As Advaitins, Banarasis believe that one should not create Maya within Maya.
                           Narendra Modi and his challenger in God's Own Constituency are using such messianic language which was not heard in any election in post independent India. Earlier we were cautioned against omnipresent Foreign Hand, bent upon to destabilize the country, Those were the days of cold war in international arena and Left- Right animosity on domestic front. Foreign Hand theory  ultimately died as terrorist with open hands played havoc with the country. Modi and Kejriwal now talking about " Hand of God" . And it is as much cause of curiosity as concern for the countrymen.
                           Rise of Modi and Kejriwal can not be explained fully by the simple "cause and effect" dimensions. Is there any third Dimension in the form of  " Hand of God" -some positive or negative influence. Since the main actors are themselves using messianic language, it is not irrelevant to discuss the matter.
                           Modi said the other day,"God chooses certain people to do the difficult work. I believe god has chosen me for this work. Now I only need your blessings,"  So the main actor feels that he is the chosen one. And why he came to Varanasi the explanation is-"I don't think anyone has sent me here, or I have come here. I feel Mother Ganga has called me to Varanasi."
                           It is as if we are hearing words of Annie Besant who sailed to Varanasi from London ,  121 years ago, in 1893. According to Theosophical  reports Mrs. Besant was determined to go to India, stating “I am ordered to go” . She claimed to have received a message from the Master. She told the people that she was and is a Hindu, — that in her prior incarnation she was an Indian pandit, and she is now visiting her own land after a sojourn in the West, where she was re-incarnated to know the nature of the materialistic civilisation of those regions.
                           Kejriwal was as God driven as Modi. In his swearing in ceremony In New Delhi he declared," Aam Aadmi Party is Kudrat Ka karishma (God's magic)". And it was not a spontaneous, sentimental statement. In electioneering in the holy city he expanded The Kudrat Ka Karishma theory. He is saying, God has a plan to cleanse the rot. " Bhagwan Jhadu chala raha hai, hamen bhi jhadu chalani hai "(god is sweeping with Jhadu, we should also take jhadu in our hands and clean the dirty system ) In Indian mythology jhadu or marjani is related to folk Goddesses- Shitala and Dhumavati. Ojhas in Indian villages use a jahdu like  fly whisk to ward off evil influence on a person.
                   Then, there a distinct similarity between speeches of Modi and Kejriwal. Their voices are not sweet or melodious, their narratives often lack substance. But their speeches cast a spell over audiences in such a way that they respond like hypnotized lot, kathputlis, moving with thread of the masters.Are we witnessing beginning of an era of cult leaders and cult followers? How can one explain the cap vulgarity which engulfed the country in recent months ?
                   Attentiveness and frenzy of crowd are unbelievable.Sometimes It appears that both the  speakers and listeners are possessed. "Possessed" is not necessarily a negative term.

                  Not to compare Modi and Kejriwal to any other world orator but just to deal the issue in the perspective of social psychology, let us look into  personality and oratory skill of Hitler. One eyewitness describes the magic of Hitler and his speech-"When, at the climax, he sways from one side to the other his listeners sway with him; when he leans forward they also lean forward and when he concludes they either are awed and silent or on their feet in a frenzy"

   

                 Occult scholars tell us that Demi gods or inferior entities ( not the God) often interfere in human domain. British Prime Minster Benjamin Disraeli said  long ago, "Governments do not govern, but merely control the machinery of government, being themselves controlled by the hidden hand.....For you see, the world is governed by very different personages from what is imagined by those who are not behind the scenes."

                 Who is behind scene ? God or Kudrat ? 

                Modi and Kejriwal should explain to the people - God's Hand and Kudrat ka Karishma theory.

And they should not declare themselves that they were chosen ones. God is very selective in this matter-
 “Many are called, but few are chosen” Matthew 22:14 
               At best Modi and Kejriwal are called ones and firstly Banarasis will judge them and later hand them over to God for final calling.