BE THE REASON

 BE THE REASON: 1 percent

There are people in this world who have only come across people who have mistreated and hurt them their entire lives.

They don’t know what affection is, they don’t know what it’s like to be talked with kindness, to be shown love or acceptance without conditions. Some don’t even think they’re worth being loved. They are open wounds.

Be the reason someone believes there are still good people in this world. Change their perspective.

Be the reason they can learn to build trust again, and open themselves to letting people in their lives. Because many people have shut down and build walls to protect themselves from getting hurt.

The world is full of people who just want to take from others, rare is it to find people who also want to give, and not just take.

So be that 1%, make a difference. It won’t change the world but it will certain change their world. Giving someone something they’ve never had is truly priceless. Be light!

Everyone you come across has wounds, struggles, traumas and are trying to heal from things they are not to be vocal about.

So, when you enter someone’s life even if it’s just for a minute, try your best to leave them in a better condition than you found them. Be a light in their world.

This doesn’t mean you should fix them; it more about trying to change their perception of the world with your kindness, compassion and love.

BOOK

                             

‘Book’ comes from ‘boc’ in Old English. It is a number of sheets of paper bound together. These sheets carry writing or printing on them.

The first books were written on the papyrus plant by the ancient Egyptians. (‘Paper’ has grown out of ‘papyrus’.) For centuries there were only handwritten books. In 1455, the German inventor of printing, Guttenburg, completely changed book production. (Incidentally, a ‘bookmaker’ has nothing to do with the making of books; it is a person whose business is to take bets, as on horse races.)

Many have written on the importance of books. One says that a good book is the precious life blood of a master spirit. Another holds that it is the purest essence of a human soul. Yet another view sees it as the best friends, the same today and forever. No doubt, the study of books leads us to the study of mankind.

One has to pick and choose the books that one decides to read. Their quality and relevance have to be well considered. Some books are to be tasted; some are to be swallowed; and a few are to be chewed and digested. Reading books is a ready way to learning. But one is likely to become a ‘bookworm’ if one goes on reading too much.

The true foundation of a school, college or university is a collection of books. In the living present, books have largely been replaced by the mobile, computer, tablet and other devices. Yet the legacy of books lingers on.

 

DO WHAT WORKS FOR YOU

 

DO WHAT WORKS FOR YOU

Focus on what’s meaningful to you and follow that path. Don’t make choices based on what everyone around you is doing or saying you should do.

It’s not you v/s the world, it’s you v/s yourself. You are the who gets to decide what kind of experience you want to have in this life. This life is yours to live not people’s to dictate.

Many people lack self-awareness and have no sense of purpose; they’re constantly in need of external validation to fill that void. Don’t be that person. Don’t let people control or manipulate you. Be self-aware!

You don’t have to live your life according to people’s expectations or societies standards. You are your own person. Find yourself, know yourself and live accordingly.

People will tell you what to do, how to live, what to believe, who to be, but you have to be self aware and follow the path that feels right for you even if it doesn’t make sense to anyone. Live a life that’s meaningful to you according to your goals, passion, vision and calling; because you will be the one stuck with the consequences of choices and decisions you make.

Make sure that whatever you do you are doing it because you feel it’s truly right for you and not just because it’s everyone around you wants or expects.

Article on MINIMALISM

 

What is minimalism?

 

     Minimalism is a movement in the visual arts that originated in New York in the 1960’s. The trend is especially popular in interior design and architecture. It’s basic philosophy is to promote the things that are truly valuable and remove everything else that is not essential.

Minimalist architects and interior designers try to achieve simplicity by using white elements, cold lighting and large spaces with minimum objects and furniture. They avoid complex curves, ornate designs and any other feature that is seen as a distraction or complication to a basic design. Wall surfaces are light-coloured and windows are large, allowing an abundance of natural light into the house. There is an emphasis or restraint.

Famous minimalist architects include German Architect Ludwig Mies Van der Rohe and Japanese Tadao Ando. The motto ‘Less is more’ was coined by Rohe. Apple founder Steve Jobs was a minimalist and this is reflected in the way he designed Apple products like the iPad, iPod and iPhone.

Minimalist design has been deeply influenced by Japanese traditional design and architecture. The latter is inspired by Zen philosophy that teaches one to unclutter the mind and to live simply with few possessions. In an earthquake-prone country like Japan, minimalism is practical as most earthquake injuries happen due to falling objects.

Story

 

Cycle of Evil

 There was once a king who was so cruel and unjust that his subjects yearned for his death and dethronement.

However, one day he surprised them all by announcing that he had decided to turn over a new leaf.

“No more cruelty, no more injustice,” he promised, and he was as good as his word. He became known as ‘Gentle Monarch’.

Months after his transformation one of his ministers plucked up enough courage to ask him what had brought about this change of heart, and the king answered:

“As I was galloping through my forests I caught sight of a fox being chased by a hound. The fox escaped into his hole but not before the hound had bitten into its leg and lamed it for life.

Later I rode into a village and saw the same hound there. It was barking at a man. Even as I watched, the man picked up a huge stone and flung it at the dog, breaking its leg. The man had not gone far when he was kicked by a horse. His knee was shattered and he fell to the ground, disable for life. The horse began to run but it fell into a hole and broke his leg. Reflecting on all that had happened, I thought: ‘Evil begets evil. If I continue in my evil ways, I will surely be overtaken by evil.’ So I decided to change.”

The minister went away convinced that the time was ripe to overthrow the king and seize the throne. Immersed in thought, he did not see the steps in front of him and fell, breaking his neck.

Meet the wise warrior

AHILYABAI HOLKAR: THE PHILOSOPHER QUEEN OF MALWA 

Ahilyabai Holkar (1725–1795) remains one of the most remarkable and revered women rulers in Indian history. Her reign over the Malwa region, with Maheshwar as its capital, is remembered for its stability, prosperity, and dedication to public welfare. A visionary queen, a brave warrior, and an exemplary administrator, Ahilyabai's legacy continues to inspire generations.

Early Life and Rise to Power: Born in 1725 in the village of Chondi in present-day Maharashtra, Ahilyabai belonged to a humble family. Her sharp intellect and strong character were evident even as a young girl. She was chosen by Malhar Rao Holkar, a prominent noble in the Maratha Empire, as the bride for his son, Khanderao Holkar. Her early years were marked by deep devotion, simplicity, and keen observation of state matters.

In 1754, her husband died in battle, and Ahilyabai, then a young widow, was left devastated. But rather than withdrawing from public life, she was encouraged by her father-in-law Malhar Rao to take interest in administrative and military affairs. She often accompanied him on campaigns and learned the nuances of governance firsthand.

Following the death of Malhar Rao in 1766 and the brief succession and death of her son Male Rao Holkar, Ahilyabai assumed full control of the Holkar kingdom. Despite being a woman in a patriarchal society, she gained the support of her people and nobility owing to her wisdom and leadership.

A Queen With Grit and Grace: Ahilyabai’s rule was tested early on when Raghoba, the uncle of the Peshwa of Pune, marched to the borders of the Holkar kingdom with an army of 50,000 men. He sought to take advantage of the political instability. In a legendary move, Ahilyabai wrote him a powerful letter stating:

“I am prepared for battle. If you win, it will not be a great feat. But imagine the disgrace if you lose to a woman.”

The strong message unnerved Raghoba, who withdrew his forces, claiming he had only come to offer condolences.

Administration and Social Reform: Ahilyabai Holkar proved to be a just, tolerant, and efficient ruler. Her administration was known for its fairness and focus on welfare. She was accessible to her people and held daily public hearings. Her reign witnessed no major rebellions — a rare achievement in those times.

She invested the kingdom’s resources in building infrastructure — constructing roads, wells, ghats, temples, and dharamshalas (rest houses) not only in Malwa but across India. From Kashi (Varanasi) and Somnath in Gujarat to Dwarka, Ayodhya, and Rameswaram, her generosity was legendary. Her efforts were not confined to Hindu religious sites; she extended support to other communities as well.

Cultural Legacy: Ahilyabai is also credited with the revival of the Maheshwari sari, a craft tradition from her capital, Maheshwar. She encouraged artisans and weavers to settle in the city and nurtured a culture of art and craftsmanship.

Her patronage helped Maheshwar grow into a vibrant cultural center. Even today, the Maheshwari sari remains a symbol of her artistic vision and commitment to local heritage.

Military Acumen: Though known for her kindness, Ahilyabai was also a fearless warrior. She personally led her armies into battle when needed, commanding respect from powerful contemporaries like the Peshwas, Nana Phadnavis, and Mahadji Scindia of Gwalior. Her balanced approach to governance — a blend of strength and compassion — set her apart from many rulers of her time.

Legacy: Ahilyabai Holkar ruled for over 30 years, and her period of governance is remembered as a golden era for Malwa. She passed away in 1795, but her legacy continues to shine. Statues, schools, institutions, and awards in her name exist across India, and her life is a subject of study and admiration.

In an age when women were rarely seen in positions of power, Ahilyabai Holkar emerged as a beacon of courage, wisdom, and justice. Her story is not just about the glory of a queen, but about the strength of a woman who ruled with a heart full of compassion and a mind guided by dharma.

Mythology

The Four Ages

Most ancient cultures talk about the four ages or yugas. In Hinduism, the yugas are divided based on virtue and it is believed that we are headed into the worst age, called Kalyug. In Greek mythology, the ages are divided by colour and we are currently in the Black Age. Let's look at the similarities and differences in the ages or yugas as described by different mythologies.

 There is a story in the Mahabharata that goes like this once Draupadi asked Bheem to bring her the celestial lotus from the garden of Kuber, the God of Treasures. Bheem hastened towards the divine forest and rushed forwards like a whirlwind, scattering the wild animals and making the Earth tremble.

 Hanuman was resting in the forest under a tree and was awakened by the hubbub. He stretched his long tail until it obstructed Bheem's path. When Bheem came across the tail, he asked Hanuman to move it, without recognising who he was. Hanuman said, "Move it aside." Bheem tried to lift Hanuman's tail but could not move it, no matter how hard he tried. When Bheem gave up, Hanuman revealed his identity. Being sons of Vayu, the God of Wind, the two started chatting like brothers. Hanuman told Bheem about the four yugas or ages. Here's what Hanuman said.

The first yug was the Sat Yug or Krita Yug. It was the perfect age. There was only one religion. Everybody was saintly and so there was no need to perform religious ceremonies. There were no Gods and no demons. Nobody was rich or poor. Everything was obtained by the power of will. There were no diseases. There was no sorrow, no fear, no hatred, no evil of any kind. Narayana was the universal soul, and he was white in colour. The identification of the individual soul with the universal soul was the only religion in the world.

The second yug was the Treta Yug. The universal soul in this yug was red in colour. Virtue lessened by a quarter so religious sacrifices were needed.

The third yug was called Dwapara Yug. At this time, virtue had further lessened by one half and now it was just one-fourth from the time of the Treta Yug. The universal soul was yellow in colour. Truth had declined and there was a prevalence of sin. There were diseases and calamities.

 The fourth yug was Kali Yug or Kalyug. The universal soul had become black in colour. Less than one-fourth of the virtue now remained. Men became wicked. There was misery and disease all around. Even performing holy rites did not have the desired result.

Greek mythology also talks about four ages with similar characteristics but with different colours. The first age was the Golden or Yellow Age. Men lived like gods under the rule of Kronos. They did not grow old and never lost their strength. The whole world was prosperous and there was peace and security.

The second age was the Silver or White Age. In this age, men were inferior. Children had to be reared for a century and did not survive for long afterwards. Sacrifice and worship were neglected. In the end, Zeus, the son of Kronos, destroyed the silver race.

 The third age was the Bronze Age. The colour of this age was red. In this, men sprang from ash. They had great strength, but they were takers of life. In the end, they were all removed by black death to Hades.

The fourth age was the Iron Age. The colour of this age was black. The men in this age were created by Zeus.

 A similar division of time into four ages is found in several other cultures around the world. An interesting comparison is seen in Celtic (Irish) mythology, where the colours of the four ages match those given in the Mahabharat story. The first Celtic Age is Partholon, the Silver Age, which is white; the second is Nemed's, the Bronze Age, which is red; the third is the Tuatha de Danann, the Golden Age, which is yellow; and the fourth is the Age of the Dark Milesians, which is black.