CELEBRATING THE LORD OF THE MASSES

Ganesh Chaturthi

Ganesh Chaturthi is a Hindu festival that celebrates the arrival of Lord Ganesha. 

It is celebrated in August or September every year for one and a half, five, seven days extending upto 21 days. This festival is about Lord Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity, and his arrival on earth with his mother from Mount Kailash. The festival begins by bringing Lord Ganesh's statue/murti and installing it in homes or publically. Goddess Parvati is also worshipped during this time. Festival ends when the murti is immersed in a water body like a lake or ocean, also known as visarjan. It is said that after visarjan, both return to Mount Kailash.

Lord Ganesha is the first God worshiped before new beginnings, big or small. This depicts how important he is and how auspicious his presence is. He is referred to as the "lord of an invocation," "guardian of the multitudes," "god of success," "god of intelligence," and "obstacle remover." "Gana" means "people;" therefore, he is called Ganapati or Ganesh, meaning "lord of the masses."

The festival begins days before its actual dates as people start prepping and gathering items to worship Lord Ganesha. Some buy the murti, and some make it on their own. The house is cleaned before bringing Ganpati home, and the place where the murti is kept is decorated with flowers and colourful decorative items. On the day of the installation, Lord Ganesha is brought home, and his idol is installed with music, dance, happiness, joy, and devotion. Bhajans (holy songs) and aartis (holy chants) are sung twice daily.

Prashad (offerings) are made and offered to Ganpati, and every food item he loves is prepared and offered and then distributed to friends, family, and other people. Modaks and Ladoos are his favorite food items. The date of Ganesh Chaturthi depends on the Chaturthi Tithi. Ganesh Chaturthi is observed on the day of Chaturthi Tithi of Bhadrapad month.

It is said that on the day of visarjan, "Vighnaharta" (the one who takes all the problems away) takes all the obstacles, problems, and sorrow with him and leaves behind happiness, prosperity, and abundance.

Lord Ganesha has many names and has meaning and story behind each one. So let me tell you the story behind his name "Ekdanta," meaning "one toothed." Lord Ganesha has only one tooth. Although he had two, he had to take one out. And the story behind that will blow your minds.

In scriptures, Sage Vyas was asked to write an epic for which he needed someone intelligent. Sage Vyas requested Lord Shiva to help him with the scripture. Lord Shiva asked Lord Ganesha to write the script. But before Sage Vyas began dictating and Lord Ganesha started writing, Sage Vyas insisted that Lord Ganesha would write every word, every hymn only if he understood its meaning. In return, Lord Ganesha put a condition that Sage Vyas must dictate continuously, without any break and if he paused and Lord Ganesha had to halt his pen, he would not resume writing. The process went on for months. Lord Ganesha wrote without missing a single word and its meaning; he knew every word and hymn, which is why he is called the "god of intelligence." When they were in the process of writing, Lord Ganesha ran out of pens, so he pulled out one of his tusks to finish the process. And this is the reason why he is called Ekdanta.

There are so many tales of Lord Ganesha that will bedazzle you and force you to learn more about him.

TRADITIONAL YET SPORTY MARTIAL ART

 Judo 

The word literally translates as “gentle way” since ju means ‘gentle’ and do means ‘way’. It is gentle because its fundamental tenet is to use your opponent’s own weight and strength against him or her, allowing a smaller person to defeat a much larger opponent through ability, strategy, technique and time. The majority of sports judo techniques can be practised by people of all ages and genders. 

History of Judo

As the knowledge of unarmed fighting arts (jitsu) spread throughout the Orient, coming last to Japan, the subdivision multiplied as did names by which the arts were known: Wojitsu, Tai-jitsu, Go shin Jitsu, Ai Jitsu, and many others. Dr Jigoro Kano, a Japanese college professor, spent many years studying various ancient fighting arts, evaluating, comparing and practising them. Finally, in 1882, he put together the techniques to create a new art which he called Judo.

Dr Kano’s vision for judo was, as he wrote: “Judo should be one all-pervading principle governing the whole field, and that principle should be the highest or most efficient use of mental as well as physical energy directed to the accomplishment of a certain definite purpose or aim. Once the real importance of this purpose is understood, it may be applied to all phases of life and activity, thereby enabling one to lead the highest and most rational life.”

Present-day Judo

Today, judo is one of the most widely-spread martial arts with over 10 million practitioners. Kodokan is judo’s main centre for training and administration (Kodokan is the name given by Dr Kano to his dojo). You need not be contest-minded to take up judo. It is not purely about physical, it’s also about good attitude, behaviour, and adhering to class etiquette and decorum. We see this reflected in the oath every student joining Kodokan takes: “Once I have entered the Kodokan, I will not end my study without reasonable cause; I will not dishonour the dojo; unless I am given permission, I will not disclose the secrets that I have been taught, unless I am given permission, I will not teach judo; pupil first, teacher second, I will always follow the rules of the dojo.”

Judo Grade

Unarmed fighting arts, in their original form, had no ranks, degrees, uniforms, or belts. Awarding a belt for proficiency is relatively new. The sports judo belt was first given some 150 years ago. One rule is absolute: An individual may not grade himself in belt rank, irrespective of his proficiency. The judgement must be made by someone who is able to evaluate the individual either by his seniority of rank or proficiency. Originally, there were only two colour belts in judo, namely white and black. Then the brown belt was introduced as an intermediate grade. Today, there are many styles in judo, variance has crept in the colour scheme for grades at kyu (learners) level. It streamlines at the black belt. When you get your black belt, you are a first dan. The highest rank awarded is the 10th dan. Only 15 individuals have been promoted by Kodokan to the 10th dan.

Technique Categories in Judo

Judo techniques are categorized by which body part is used to execute a throw. There is a whole category of how to break a fall too. As it is easier to learn how to throw than to receive it, most students joining are eager to learn how to throw. Judo techniques are broadly divided into four categories:

1. Ukemi-waza (Breakfall): Until you have learned how to fall safely, do not allow yourself to be thrown. You can hurt yourself badly and may end up with a permanent injury. It is important to learn how to break a fall when thrown from different angles at any speed. Remember, learning breakfall is a lifetime asset.

2. Nage-waza (Throwing techniques): Throws are the essence of what judo is mostly about. Throws are divided into four categories, namely: Te-waza (hand technique), Koshi-waza (hip technique), Ashi-waza (foot and leg technique), Sutemi-waza (Sacrifice technique) and Yokosutemi-waza (side sacrifice technique)

3. Katami-waza (Groundwork techniques): These are techniques to pin your opponent to the ground: Osa-komiwaza (hold down technique) and Shime-waza (strangle technique).

4. Gyaku-waza (Joints-locking techniques): There is a fifth category of technique called atemi-waza (hand and foot blow technique). These techniques are never used in free sparring (randori) or contest (shiai). Few schools offer instructions in both sport judo and self-defence. I 

Judo Matches

Judo matches are won in four ways:

● When a throw (nage-waza) is properly executed, i.e., dropping the opponent onto his back or side.

● An immobilization hold down called osaekomi, in which a person is held down, controlled on his back or side for a period of thirty seconds.

● A choke called shime-waza, directed against the blood vessels of the neck, causing the opponent to lose consciousness or to submit.

● Joint lock when applied, called gyaku-waza, directed against the elbow causing the opponent to submit so as to avoid a fracture.

Self-Defence

Sports judo training may prepare a person for self-defence. The important fact is that throwing techniques and groundwork techniques are not the best ways to cope with common street attacks. An exceptional judoka with years of training in sport judo can apply some techniques in some self-defence situations.

Techniques Snippet

Back Fall (Backward Roll cum Fall)

1. Start from a seated position, legs straight forward, hands on your knees, head slightly forward.

2. Fall gently back with a rolling (not thrusting) motion, raising your hands to get more power in the slap. Keep the body slightly curled.

3. Finish by slapping the mat with force, just before the upper back touches the mat. The head never hits the mat. Avoid jerking back into the fall. Hit the mat with the palms of your hands cupped, arms fully extended, and close to the body. Slapping absorbs impact and allows you to fall with less jarring action to your back and to your internal organs.

In conclusion, judo, with its gentle yet effective principles, remains a popular and widely-practised martial art worldwide. Its rich history, universal techniques, and emphasis on respect and discipline, make it an invaluable pursuit. Whether for sport or self-improvement, judo offers a profound path to physical and mental growth.

SCULPTORS OF OUR LIFE

Our teachers 

Some people, noticing a marble block, remarked, “A block of stone”. But when Michelangelo, history’s greatest sculptor, saw it, he exclaimed, “I see an angel!” He set to work with his chisel and hammer to carve out the angel in it. That is precisely what every teacher is called to be: a sculptor or an artist who can visualise the great work of art lying hidden in every student and help bring out the masterpiece. 

Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam credited his Science teacher, Shri Siva Subramaniam Iyer who recognised Kalam’s intelligence and encouraged him. The well known billionaire, Bill Gates, ranks among the most famous dropouts of Harvard’s who founded the Microsoft Corporation. He always acknowledged his Maths and Drama teachers who so encouraged and motivated him in school that he went on to become the sixth richest person in the world and pledged to give away 95% of his wealth to charity. These are but a few examples of teachers who, backed by a keen vision, helped their students become valuable gems of society.

Teachers who are visionaries see their profession as a mission. In fact, teaching is both a call and sometimes a choice in life. Teachers educate their students not only for earning a livelihood or for gaining wealth and comfort but largely to help them live a meaningful life, i.e., to be persons of value and vision. Teachers stimulate their pupils to be creative and innovative in life. Albert Einstein once said, “It’s the supreme art of a teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” Teachers use their expertise and skills to the maximum for the benefit of their students.

Our country is blessed with many great visionary teachers who have made innumerable sacrifices for the sake of their students. All the effort and hard work teachers invest in bringing out the best in their students are rarely acknowledged or appreciated. They can be paid back in words or random acts of gratitude. Their greatest reward is the joy and pride of seeing their students become persons of character and nobility. 

Every year we observe Teachers’ Day on 5th September. On this auspicious day, may their immense sacrifices and selfless devotion to ‘teaching’ per se ensure the blossoming of the potential in each child for the betterment of society and country!

FEELING SURE OF YOURSELF

Confidence 

What Is Confidence?

Confidence means feeling sure of yourself and your abilities — not in an arrogant way, but in a realistic, secure way. Confidence isn't about feeling superior to others. It's a quiet inner knowledge that you're capable.

Confident people: 

● Feel secure rather than insecure 

● Know they can rely on their skills and strengths to handle whatever comes up

● feel ready for everyday challenges like tests, performances, and competitions 

● think "I can" instead of "I can't"

Why Confidence Matters?

Confidence helps us feel ready for life's experiences. When we're confident, we're more likely to move forward with people and opportunities — not backaway from them. And if things don't work out at first, confidence helps us try again.

How to Be More Confident: Everyone can work to gain more confidence. Here are a few tips to try:

● Build a confident mindset. When your inner voice says "I can't," retrain it to say "I can". Or you could also say, "I know I can learn (or do) this if I put my mind to it."

● Take a safe risk. Sign up for a school committee, volunteer to help with a project or any school activity, or try out for a team or talent show. Raise your hand in class more often. Talk to everyone in class.

● Challenge yourself to do something that's just beyond your normal comfort zone. Pick something you'd like to do if only you had more confidence. Give yourself a little push and do it. Now that you've done that, pick something else to try — and keep repeating this same process. Confidence grows with every step forward.

● Know your talents and help them shine. We're taught to work hard to improve our weaknesses. Sometimes that's important, like bringing up a bad grade. But don't let working on a weakness prevent you from getting even better at the things you're good at.

● Do your homework. Study. Do assignments. Prepare for class, tests, and quizzes. Why? If you've been keeping on top of class work all along, you'll feel more confident in tests and finals. The best defence against test anxiety and school stress is to keep up and do the work steadily.

It takes courage and confidence to be real. But the more real we are, the more self-confident we become. Confidence builds self-esteem.

FOUNDER OF FORD MOTOR COMPANY

Henry Ford 

Henry Ford is famous for making cars easier for most people to buy. He did this by producing the cars using an assembly line.

Henry Ford was born in 1863 in Michigan. He had 4 siblings, and his family owned a farm. He worked on the farm when he was young, but he soon discovered that he loved taking things apart to see how they worked, and then putting them back together again.

He worked on watches a lot and ended up helping many people fix their watches. In 1879, when he was 16 years old, he moved to Detroit to start working with machines, though he did come home and work on the farm a little, too.

Ford got married to Clara Bryant in 1888 and worked in a sawmill. He eventually became an engineer.

Ford worked for the Edison Illuminating Company and even got to meet Thomas Edison! Edison encouraged him to keep working on his plans for his horseless carriage, powered by a motor. 

Ford’s gasoline-powered horseless carriage was called the Quadricycle. He sold the Quadricycle and started his own company to continue his work making vehicles.

He did not stay with the first company for very many years but eventually started the Ford Motor Company. He spent many years developing cars, which were made only a few at a time.

Ford was not the first person to create a car, but he was the one who began to make them accessible to a lot of people in the United States.

His “Model T” car, released in 1908, was easy to drive and repair, which made many people want one.

He needed to make a lot of cars very quickly. His company, Ford Motor Company, hired skilled workers to work on an assembly line. The car would move through the line, and each worker had a job along the line.

One worker might put on the steering wheel, while at a different spot on the line, another worker put on tires. Every Model T was painted black. The company could make many cars at a time this way, which made them cheaper to produce.

In addition to using the assembly line to produce cars, Ford was also known for paying his workers fair wages.

Henry Ford died in 1947, but his company is still around and making cars today.

SEPTEMBER 2

 World Coconut Day

Most of us would have learnt in school about the Kalpavriksha, or the “tree of life” which is so known because every part of it is useful to humans. That’s the familiar palm tree Cocos nucifera, the only living species of the genus Cocos and literally a powerhouse of nutrition and other benefits. 

It’s sad that the coconut got such a bad reputation for several years because of negative propaganda spurred by rival oil producers. Fortunately that’s a thing of the past, and even the West is wise to the excellent qualities of this hardy nut. Who knows, soon they might also “discover” the properties of the tree’s other parts! 

For people in coconut-producing countries, however, the knowledge has always been there, and treasured as a way of life. In fact, the Asian and Pacific Coconut Community (APCC), an intergovernmental organisation of coconut-producing countries, has been celebrating World Coconut Day on September 2 since 2009. 

We don’t need to be told that the coconut is regarded as holy, and plays a significant role in most Hindu rituals. The launch of anything from an enterprise to a boat, housewarming, foundation stone laying, buying a new car... It isn’t complete without breaking a coconut! 

Pity about the water that gets wasted on these occasions, though — that coconut water is like liquid gold for the body, as it is full of electrolytes and minerals. No wonder it’s among the first things we reach for on a hot day.

Once you’re done with the water, comes the sweet white kernel of the coconut, the essential ingredient in coastal cuisine. Dried into copra, or scraped for fresh use, the coconut lends its inimitable flavour — whether it is ground into a masala, roasted and pounded into a chutney, or sprinkled freshly grated into your favourite dish. Budding flowers are used to make palm sugar, which is healthier than the refined white one.

Consuming coconut, especially fresh, regularly, helps keep hair shiny and skin supple. Coconut oil, which is extracted from the dried copra, has similar benefits, and a wider range of applications. The oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), and of course Indians have long been using it on hair and for massage, without knowing any of these complicated words. Now that we know more about MCTs, it emerges that coconut oil is more of a medicine and less of a food or cosmetic aid.

The MCTs in coconut oil can help increase metabolism and support weight loss. MCTs can also improve gut health and reduce symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

Coconut oil's fatty acids nourish and moisturise skin and hair, reducing dryness and frizz.

Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, and thus supports the immune system.

Coconut oil's anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe and calm irritated skin and joints.

Coconut oil's antimicrobial properties can help reduce bad breath, plaque, and gum inflammation.

Coconut oil is a natural makeup remover as it effectively removes makeup without stripping skin of its natural oils.

Coconut oil's MCTs may help increase HDL (good) cholesterol and reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol. So much for the myth that coconut is high in cholesterol!

To grind into curries or other coconut-based dishes, you can use either fresh or dried coconut – likewise, for using in dishes as a garnish. The simple poha gets the nomenclature of “special poha” when freshly grated coconut is sprinkled over it. 

Coconut water is best enjoyed by itself, and some attempts at incorporating it into cocktails haven’t really taken off. But coconut milk is more inclusive, and allows itself to be made into a variety of drinks, from the sol kadi, to a daiquiri. You could even sip that from a cup made out of a coconut shell. 

Coconut shells are used to make a wide range of crafts, from utensils to jewellery, and the husk is used for making coir. The shells are now also being ground and used to make exfoliating scrubs. The leaves of the coconut tree are woven into the ubiquitous thatched roofs that one sees in rural areas all along the Konkan coast. The sturdy trunk provides wood which is traditionally made into canoes, and is now also used for furniture and even flooring.

This is why the tree is called Kalpavriksha.

MATHEMATICS IN NATURE

Petal Numbers

Count the number of petals on flowers in your backyard, out in the country, or in a picture book. You’ll find that the number five keeps coming up. Hibiscus, periwinkle, Jasmine all have five petals.

You may also find flowers with 3 petals, and others with 8, 13, or even 21 petals. But it’s harder to find flowers with 4, 6, 7, or 10 petals (unless some have been nibbled).

Is there something special about the numbers 3, 5, 8, 13, and 21? As a matter of fact, there is. 

To see that, start with 1. 

Then add 1 + 1 = 2. 

Keep doing this, and you get a pattern:

1 + 1 = 2

1 + 2 = 3

2 + 3 = 5

3 + 5 = 8

5 + 8 = 13

8 + 13 = 21, and so on. 

This set of numbers, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, … goes on to infinity. They are called Fibonacci numbers, after the mathematician who made them famous.

Fibonacci numbers show up all over nature: in the spirals of pinecones and pineapples, in the swirls of snail shells, in flowers and leaves. 

Why? It might have something to do with how plants and other living things grow, but no one knows for sure.