A HUNDRED-STRINGED LUTE

Santoor 

The Santoor is an ancient folk musical instrument that is believed to have originated in Iran and made its way from there to various countries in Asia, Africa, and Europe. In India, it can be found in Kashmir, where it has been played for centuries as an indispensable accompaniment for the Sufi vocal music. Sufi mystics used it as an accompaniment for their hymns. It came to be known in Sanskrit as shat-tantri veena or hundred-stringed lute. This in due course became Santoor. 

A trapezoid-shaped instrument, the Santoor is basically a hollow box made of walnut wood with top and bottom boards of plywood and veneer and 72 metal strings, arranged in sets of 3 or 4, tied on nails and stretched over wooden bridges placed on the top board. The length and thickness of the strings vary according to the octave, and they are the thickest in the lower octave. A unique feature of Santoor is the way it is played - not by plucking the strings or drawing a bow across them as in the violin, but by striking them lightly using two light-weight wooden mallets, known as mezrab. The musician sits in a posture known as ardha-padmasana, keeps the instrument on his lap with the broad side closer to his body, holds the mallets between the index and middle fingers and thumb and uses them to strike the strings. 

Traditionally, the Santoor was played during festivities and celebrations. However, today it is emerging as a key element in North Indian classical concerts and music festivals. The credit for popularizing the instrument goes to Pandit Shivkumar Sharma, a master instrumentalist and India’s most famous Santoor exponent.

Other well-known names in the field include his son Rahul Sharma, Bhajan Sopori, and the late R. Visweswaran.

LEGEND ASSOCIATED WITH DUSSEHRA

Kautsa's Gurudakshina

     Kautsa, the young son of Devdatt, a Brahmin, was living in the city of Paithan. After completing education from Rishi Varatantu, he insisted on his Guru accepting Guru Dakshina. But Guru said, "Kautsa, to give 'Dakshina' in return for learning wisdom is not proper. Graduation of the disciple makes the Guru happy, and this is the real Guru Dakshina."

     Kautsa was not satisfied. He still felt it was his duty to give his Guru something. Finally the Guru said, "Alright,  if you insist on giving me Dakshina, give me 140 million gold coins. 10 million for each of the 14 sciences I have taught you." 

     Kautsa went to King Raghu. Raghuraja was an ancestor of Shri Rama, famous for his generosity. But just at that time, he had emptied all his coffers on the Brahmins, after performing the Vishvajit yajna (sacrifice). He asked Kautsa to give him three days time. 

     Raghuraja immediately left to get the gold coins from Indra Dev (king of Gods). Indra Dev summoned Kuber, the God of wealth. Indra Dev told Kuber, "Make a  rain of gold coins fall on Bidi leaf tree on the outskirts of Raghuraja's Ayodhya city."

     The rain of gold coins began to fall. King Raghu gave all the coins to Kautsa, and Kautsa hastened to offer the coins to Varatantu Rishi. Guru had asked only 140 million, so he gave the rest back to Kautsa. Kautsa was not interested in money. In those days honour was considered more valuable than wealth. He told the King to take the remaining gold coins back. But the King refused to take them back as Kings do not take back the daan (offering).  

    Finally Kautsa distributed the gold coins to the people of Ayodhya on the day of Ashwin Shukla Dashami (Dussehra). In remembrance of this event the custom is kept of looting the leaves of the "Bidi leaf tree" (Aaptyache paan) and people present each other these leaves as "sona" (gold).

STORY OF ALEXANDER AND THE SAGE

The passion of anger 

As Alexander began preparation to invade India, his wife approached him and asked him to bring a sage from India to her. For she knew that the Indian sage was very wise and knowledgeable person and she and her children could learn many things from him,

Alexander agreed. He conquered India and then found a sage whom he wanted take to his wife. But the sage refused to go with him. 

Alexander was furious. It was the first time somebody refused to obey him. He drew his sword out and told him that he was going to kill him.

To this the sage smiled and told, "Before you strike me, please listen to two things. First, you cannot kill me with that sword. Secondly, you are the slave of my slave."

Alexander was filled with rage, but he asked, "Why do you say that I cannot kill you?"

"With this sword you can only cut my body, but I am not the body alone. I am something else. And you cannot kill that."

"But why did you say that I am the slave of your slave?"

"I have, through my meditation and reflection, conquered the passion of anger. Now anger is my slave. Anger cannot rise in me without my permission. And then, you are filled with anger, and so you are the slave of anger which is my slave."

HEALTH BENEFITS

Boiled rice water 

 Drinking the water in which rice is cooked is really good as it can boost your energy levels. In India, farmers generally drink cooked rice water before they start their laborious work in the fields. They stay energetic throughout the day in spite of their hard work in the fields, thanks to rice water.

Most of us eat rice cooked in pressure cookers and electric cookers and that is the reason why we don’t have the habit of drinking cooked rice water. In fact, we don’t know the health benefits of boiled rice water. When rice is cooked in a pot along with water, the remaining water can be removed and consumed after the rice is cooked. That water is totally nutritious as the rice is boiled or cooked in it. 

Rice is consumed almost all over India and some parts of Asia. In fact, cooked rice water is used for beauty purposes. It is included in many skin care and hair care recipes. Some people use raw rice water whereas others recommend cooked rice water to get the benefits better. 

When rice gets cooked, it releases many of its nutrients into the water and that is the reason why that water should not be thrown away after the cooking process is over. 

Some of the health benefits of boiled rice water:

Prevents gastroenteritis: Rice water is said to prevent gastroenteritis. This is one of the health benefits of cooked rice water. Consuming rice water regularly is good for health.

Prevents cancer: Drinking cooked rice water regularly may also prevent certain types of cancer. This is one of the benefits of drinking cooked rice water.

Protection from sun: Rice water contains a substance called oryzanol. It helps withstand the UV rays from the sun. Use rice water internally and externally to help your skin take the sun’s heat.

Alzheimer’s: Although research has not yet confirmed this, there are some sources that say that cooked rice water has the ability to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. This is one of the benefits of drinking cooked rice water.

Constipation: Rice water is good in preventing constipation. When you are suffering from constipation, try drinking cooked rice water as a remedy.

Carbohydrates: Rice water can be a good source of carbohydrates. If you are looking for a healthy source of carbohydrates, try drinking rice water.

Body temperature: Rice water plays an important role in regulating the temperature levels of your body. It is advisable to drink some rice water to withstand the summer heat.

DO YOU KNOW

 What is a sting operation?

     A sting operation is a deceptive operation designed to catch a criminal in the act. Typically, the police lay a trap for the suspect wherein he/she is induced to commit a crime. Usually the  criminal act is recorded on a video camera so that the police can build a foolproof case against the offender. For example, an undercover police officer may approach a suspected drug dealer posing as a prospective buyer in order to catch him red-handed. Or the police may keep a bait car in an area where large-scale theft is happening. 

     Often a sting operation is carried out to expose corruption. It may, for example, expose a politician taking bribe, or a government official demanding money to do his duty. 

     In recent years many media houses have made effective use of stings to expose highly-placed corrupt persons. But sometimes the media is also accused of carrying out sensational sting operations in which innocent persons are victimised. Some people think it is unethical to tempt a person to commit a crime which he/she may not have otherwise committed. 

     In India too, we have had a number of stings carried out by journalists and activists. 

ARCHITECT OF INDIAN CONSTITUTION

Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar (1891-1956)

     Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, social reformer, politician, and architect of the Indian constitution, was born on April 14, 1891 in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, as the son of a Subhedar-Major in the British army. As he belonged to the Mahar community, considered untouchable, he faced caste discrimination all through his childhood. However, he was a brilliant student, and was determined to do well in his studies. After graduating from Bombay University, he managed to get a scholarship for higher studies in the U.S.A.

     On returning to India, Ambedkar obtained a high post with the Maharaja of Baroda because of his impressive academic record. However, he had to face much caste discrimination and humiliation from colleagues and subordinates. He resigned in disgust and returned to Bombay. 

     In 1920, Ambedkar went to London to train as a barrister. On his return, he founded the Bahishkrit Hitkarini Sabha (Outcastes' Welfare Association) for uplifting the downtrodden socially and politically. In 1927, he led the Mahad March at the Chowdar Tank at Colaba, near Bombay, to give the untouchables the right to draw water from the public tank which had hitherto been forbidden to them.

     In 1936, Ambedkar established a new political party called the Independent Labour Party, devoted to the cause of landless labourers. When the British government held provincial elections in 1937, he and many candidates of his party were elected to the Bombay Legislative Assembly. 

     When India attained independence, Prime Minister Nehru invited Ambedkar to join his Cabinet as a Law Minister. The Constituent Assembly entrusted the job of drafting the Constitution to a committee and Ambedkar was elected as Chairman of this Drafting Committee. With his erudition and wisdom, he proved equal to his stupendous task. The Draft Constitution prepared by him was adopted on November 26, 1949.

     Disillusioned with the treatment he had received from caste Hindus, Dr. Ambedkar embraced Buddhism in October 1956. Two months later, he passed away. 

A PERSON WITH REMARKABLE TALENT AND INTELLIGENCE

Genius 

     A genius is an individual who has exceptional intellectual or creative abilities, talent, and skills that are significantly beyond what is seen in a normal person.

  They are individuals who have made significant contributions in their fields like arts, sciences, movies, or other areas of human endeavour. Famous examples of geniuses are Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein, Marie Curie, Mozart, and others. But it's important to note that the definition of a genius can vary depending on cultural and social contexts. There is no objective or universally agreed standard for what constitutes a genius.

     Geniuses have shaped the world we live in today with their innovative ideas and groundbreaking discoveries. While their exceptional abilities may seem inborn, the habits of geniuses have played a crucial role in their success. Here are some of the most common habits that geniuses have that you can also incorporate into your daily life to unlock your inner genius.

Curiosity - This is a trait that is commonly associated with geniuses. They are always curious about the world around them and have an avid desire to learn and explore. They ask questions, challenge assumptions, and seek out new experiences. To develop your curiosity, start asking questions about the things that interest you. Read widely to expose yourself to different perspectives and ideas. Take up new hobbies and activities that challenge you and push you out of your comfort zone.

Persistence - They are known for their persistence and determination. They don't give up easily and easily put in the time and effort required to achieve their goals. To develop your persistence, set clear goals for yourself and create a plan to achieve them. Break them into smaller, achievable steps, and focus on making progress each day. When faced with obstacles or setbacks, don't give up. Instead, use them as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Open-mindedness - They are open-minded and receptive to new ideas and perspectives. They consider viewpoints that are different from their own and are not afraid to challenge or cancel their own beliefs. To develop open mindedness, seek different viewpoints and perspectives. Listen to others without judgment and try to understand their point of view. Challenge your own beliefs and be open to changing your mind.

Creativity - They have the ability to think outside the box. They come up with innovative solutions to problems and see things from a different perspective. To develop your creativity, engage in activities that allow you to think creatively. Take up creative hobbies such as writing, painting, or music. Brainstorm ideas and challenge yourself to come up with new and innovative solutions to problems.

Focus - They focus intensely on a task or project for extended periods. They can shut out distractions and maintain their concentration, allowing them to achieve exceptional results. To develop your focus, eliminate distractions. 

In conclusion, while geniuses may seem like they possess unique talents that cannot be replicated, their success is also due to the habits and traits they develop over time. By incorporating these habits into your own life, you can also unlock your inner genius and achieve exceptional results. Remember to stay curious, persistent, open-minded, creative, and focused, and you will be well on your way to achieving greatness.

Some Famous Quotes

Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration - Thomas Edison

The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination - Albert Einstein

Genius is the ability to put into effect what is in your mind - F. Scott Fitzgerald

Talent hits a target no one else can hit; Genius hits a target no one else can see - Arthur Schopenhauer 

Genius is the power of carrying the feelings of childhood into the powers of manhood - Samuel Taylor Coleridge

Genius is the capacity for productive reaction against one's training - Bernard Berenson

A genius is someone who sees the same thing in a different way - Unknown

The greatest genius will never be worth much if he pretends to draw exclusively from his own resources - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Genius is the art of taking pains- Thomas Carlyle

Genius is the ability to renew one's emotions in daily experience - Paul Cezanned