Garba rules!

I am reproducing an article from 'India Abroad' July 17, 2009 issue:

Everything I needed to know about politics I learnt at the Garba
- Parag Mehta

When my Dadaji made the courageous dicision to send his six children to America - way back in 1968-his elder brother was convinced that the next generation would be lost, that we'd lose our culture, our values and our identity. If only Mota Bhaiji has remembered the old saying, Jya jya vase ekh gujarati, thyah thyah sada kad gujarat - 'wherever one Gujarati goes, there he creates a whole new Gujarat.'

That is our culture, and that is the legacy you leave to the next generation this weekend.

I'm here to talk with you about American politics. We live in an extraordinary time in this country's history - a time of great challenges, but also of great opportunity. I had the privilege to spend the last four years working for the Democratic Party - the oldest political party in the world - to help elect President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden. I worked on the President's transition team, helping to build this new government. And I got to see firsthand the incredible talent and leadership that he and his team have brought to the government.

It's been said that Bill Clinton was our black President, because he understood the African-American community in a personal way. I think Barack Obama may be our first Gujju President. He knows us, he's lived the immigrant journey, he understands our culture and he profoundly respects the talents and contributions we bring to the table.

It is no surprise that there are more than a dozen Indian Americans already serving in senior positions throughout his administration - including our very own Sonal Shah, who is the first director of the Office of Social Innovation and Civic Engagement in the White House and, of course, Kalpen Modi - best known as the actor Kal Penn - the public liaison for Asian Americans and the arts.

But politics isn't about a party or a President. It's about people. Ordinary people, trying to build their lives, raise their families and support their communities.

I was nervous coming here today because I know this is a topic we don't discuss vry much. And when we do talk about it, it's usually just talk as opposed to action. There is a challenge here for us. We Gujaratis are, by our nature, a highly political community. We are the heirs of Mahatma Gandhi and Vallabhbhai Patel. But for a variety reasons, this has not translated to political power here in the US.

I think the first step is for us to once and for all acknowledge that this country is not a pit shop. It is our home. Whether you came here from Kathiawar or Kenya from London or Lahore - it's time to embrace that we are all Americans now. I know some of you dream of going back to India. But keep in mind that this journey you have made has forever changed the destinies of your children and grand children. Whatever we do next, wherever we go from here, America is going to be a part of our DNA.

So given that reality, how do we make the most of the enormous opportunities this country has made available?

We do it by getting a world class education. We do it by building businesses and expanding the horizons of science, industry and technology. And we do it by sharing our greatest assets: our culture, our passions and our values. It's in the art, the literature, the music and the philosophy - that is where we leave a lasting impression on our new homeland.

I love politics. I always have. Since that summer day in 1988 when my dad made me come into the house and watch the Democratic National Convention, I've been hooked. Politics is about the art of what's possible. Just imagine, four years ago, who in this room believed that this country would elect a skinny, black guy with a funny name, born in Hawaii to the son of a Muslim goat herder, raised in Indonesia by a single mother from Kansas and then by his nanima and nanaji - who would have believed that guy could be the President of the United States?

During the campaign last year, a lot of people said this election would be about making history. And there's no doubt that we made a lot of history last year - with Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and even Sarah Palin. But the more important point is that we didn't just make history. We made possibility.

Today, in America, my 9-year-old niece and all the little kids who performed this morning can sit in a classroom and look up at a wall with pictures of all the American Presidents. And when they look at them, I hope they'll pause to take a good look at number 44; because that one looks different. That one sounds different. That one is different. And in that moment, possiblity is born; for our kids and for millions of others who can now dream of serving their country in any way they imagine.

I told you, I love politics. This morning, I just wanted to tell you that everything I ever needed to learn about politics, I learned at the garba. You see, Navaratri and elections have a lot in common. They both happen in the fall. They both seem to last forever, until they end - and then you can't wait until the next one. And they both teach us a certain set of rules:

Rule#1: You gotta love people. Garba and politics are about socializing. To be successful, you have to get out there, mix it up and find the value in all kinds of people regardless of shape, size, opinions, profession and age. Don't be shy.

Rule#2: There are circles of power; so get in the right one. At the garba, the bass (grandmas) are your base. They will always start the outer circle. They move at their own pace and that's where they're comfortable. As the music goes on, other circles will develop and the steps in those circles get more and more complicated. So, when you're new don't try and jump into the middle circle on your first try. Hang back with the bass. Get your groove and work your way into the middle. The same is true in politics. You don't have to start with a presidential race. Every one of you will leave this and go home to some place - whether it's Edison, New Jersey or Nashville, Tennessee. There is work to be done in your town, in your county, in your state. Now more than ever, power doesn't flow from the top, it grows from the bottom. Learn from the bass before you move up.

Rule#3: Dress to impress and be at your best. It doesn't matter how good a dancer you are, garba is a place to see and be seen. So, look yor best and more importantly, be on your best behavior. Everyone is watching and talking and impressions matter. Mummy always said that what you do in public is a reflection on the family. When you work for a campaign or an elected official, you are a reflection of him or her. If you get elected to office yourself, you hold a public trust. If the Governor of South Carolina were here today, I'd take him to a garba and tell him to remember that bhai, everyone is watching and talking.

Rule#4: Arrogance makes you sloppy; so, keep your eyes open and be humble. At the garba, you might be flying high. You look good in your ghagra choli, your latko has got the boys' attention, your friends are following your lead in the most complicated 12-step extravaganza ever.Then wham- jadi faiba with the vichitra elbows pounds right in the ribs. Folks, the world is full of jadi faibas. Be aware. You're on their turf. They're bigger than you. They're stronger than you. And in a collision, your skinny, pretty little butt is going down. In politics, don't let power get to your head. Remember that publis service is first and foremost about service not ego. Remember the people who got you where you are and always be aware of your surroundings.

Rule#5: In defeat, remember the lesson of the Ramzaniyu. At the end of the garba after the dandias have been put away, we always end with a dance called the Ramzaniyu. We link up our arms with our family and our best friends to form a wheel around Mataji's statue. As the drum beat starts we leap together in three steps forward and then take four steps back. Now how is it that we take more steps backward, but somehow the wheel moves forward? The lesson here is that progress is hard. There are times when it feels like all we're doing is moving backwards. But if you hold on to the ones who are close to you, your forward movement will always be bigger and bolder than the hesitant steps trying to pull you back. Progress doesn't happen in a moment. It happens in a movement. You've got to be a part of that movement and keep looking ahead.

Finally, rule#6: If you remember nothing else I've said, remember this: It's time to get in the game. Every time I go to garba I see a crowd - usually the guys - standing on the sidelines, hanging in the back and loitering in the parking lot. I tell you guys now, get over yourselves. Get past the self-consciousness because you know you want to jump in. It's way more fun to dance than to observe. Ladies and gentlemen, bhaiyo ne bheno, we live in incredible times. With all that's going on in the world, it's time to stop watching and start playing. You don't want to get to the aarti and realize you missed out on the fun of the garba.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Excerpted from a keynote by Parag Mehta, deputy director of inter-governmental affairs on the Obama-Biden transition team, at the 5th International Saurashta Patel Cultural Samaj Convention in Richmond, Virginia - July 3.

First impressions - Harry Silverman

I haven't been here very long, I want to state that clearly.
But now I feel that I belong, I state that most sincerely.

The staff that's here are very kind, with what they have to say.
It's as if things were all designed to start me on my way.

I sat down to a splendid meal, it was hot and tasty, too.
It was difficult to conceal the pleasures that I knew.

The bus ride simply added more, with Donna at the wheel.
I sense that good things lay in store ... that's just the way I feel!

I felt the kind of atmosphere that added to the fun.
And, I well know my being here made me the lucky one!

There are those times when things go well, at a smooth and pleasing pace.
And, at this time, I now can tell that I have found the place!

Thanks to all of you who made me feel most welcome.

One final thought:

So many things are going on, so... where does one begin?
I'm sure before this week is gone that I'll be joining in.

Safely Home

I am home in Heaven, dear ones;
Oh! so happy and so bright!
There is perfect joy and beauty
In this everlasting light.

All the pain and grief is over,
Every restless tossing passed;
I am now at peace forever,
Safely home in Heaven at last.
-anon

Sometimes a sudden surprising incident or an event can take place before our eyes which can strongly influence or even change perspective of our life. This is one such incident that took place in the Senior Center of East Brunswick, NJ.

This I can say has surprised and influenced me as well as all the others who were present as witnesses in the Center on that day. The Center was established more than 30 years ago by the efforts of a local Lutheren Church. It was initially started as a community center for older people to keep them active and happy. Thus it was to care for the welfare of seniors in the Township. I became a member of the Center about 8 years back after coming to know about many activities which are helpful and interesting.

This incident which I narrate here is a unique one which I am sure the reader will find not only interesting but also helpful in understanding how God works things out in His own miraculous way for our good.

The day at the Center started as usual with normal actvities. The morning tea, exercises, games, lunch, etc. It was past noon and seniors were preparing for events to follow. Some were assembling for Memory Matters discussion group and some others were preparing to take part in Strength exercise classes.

Marion, an active, healthy looking senior in late 70s who looks far younger than her age is a regular in strength exercise classes besides knitting. On that day, she came to the Center driving by herself and signed up at the front desk as usual. As she was proceeding to the hall to participate in the exercise classes, she felt a sudden pang of pain and slowly slipped and fell on the carpet unconscious.

An alarm was raised by a fellow member calling for help which alerted the Director and the other staff. Soon the staff came rushing to help her and the Director called Emergency. Each and every staff took their turn in trying to revive her and also to clear the place.

The assistant Director who heard the call, stopped the Memory Matters class and came rushing to help and maintain order as the members were anxious and restless to know the development. Efforts to bring Marion to consciousness failed . The ambulance came and the Emergency staff took over and took her to Robert Wood Johnson Hospital for treatment.

The next day, when members came to the Center we were shocked to know that all efforts to bring her back to life failed and she died without regaining consciousness. A Memorial service was arranged in the N. Brunswick Presbytarian Church. All of us at the Center attended led by the Assistant Director. At the service, we came to know many important and interesting things.

Marion who is 79 years old was living in an apartment in East Brunswick alone after her husband's death. She pushed back all her sorrows and joined the Center and the Church. She lived a bold life, making a difference in the community in which she lived. She participated in the Church choir, taught Sunday School and took an active part in various activities. She was ever present in any need of a family especially as a counsel or advisor to children and was recognized as a leader of the community. She also helped her neighbours extending a helping hand and maintaining good relationship.

At the service, several members of the Center and Church as well as friends recalled her services singing hymns of her liking. Many families acknoweldged her as part of their family and many children expressed their grief at the loss of their loving teacher and mentor. One of her neighbours collected all her pictures and arranged a good display of her life in pictures.

All this will not however give the full or least glimpse of the worthy life she lived. What transpired and convinced one and all, especially at the Center was the sudden death and unexpected eternal call. Everyone was happy that it did not happen while she was alone at home or driving.

She had a nice closing and peaceful end and it gave us an opportunity to witness and understand God's timing and His wonderful deed. The members of the Center have become a part of Marion's family encountering her last journey.
- Samuel Raya

My place - Dhanesh Merchant

I love to play pool
But have no cue!
I enjoy exercise
But have no bike!
I play Bingo
Now know where to go!
I like my bus rides
It saves me gas besides!
Games, cards, computers and much more
I don't feel alone, I am a Senior
I know,who takes care
East Brunswick Senior Center -my place

2008 Summer Olympics - Sam Prabhakar Raya

The 2008 Summer Olympic Games, officially known as the Games of the XXIX Olympiad, is a major international multi - sport event which is being held in Beijing, People's Republic of China, from August 8 to August 24, 2008. A total of 10,500 athletes are expected to compete in 302 events in 28 sports. The Olympic slogan, One World, One Dream, calls upon the world to unite in the Olympic spirit.
- From Wikipedia

Except for the winning of individual Gold medal by Abhinav Bindra in the ten meter Air Rifle event, the Indian contingent of 55 athletes have drawn almost a blank in the Olympics. I would like to bring to your attention one noteworthy achievement of India, which no other country can boast of, it is noteworthy because it is not a national one or government sponsored one.

A remote town Karimnagar in Andhra Pradesh has risen to the heights of fame by exporting thousands of tons of granite to Beijing.This blue stained grey granite is a rare form in rectangular blocks of more than a cubic meter in sizes. The rough blocks are sliced, refined and polished to suit and fit their requirements. The cost is Rupees 11,000 ( $275 approx) per ton.

Only recently Karimnagar was connected by rail. The granite was transported from this town all the way to the Vizag port and shipped to Beijing.

The city of Hyderabad founded in the sixteenth century is famous for its prestigeous historical monuments. The Charminar, the Golconda Fort and Kutub Shahi Tomb attract tourists from all over the world. We are proud of the splendour of these famous structures.

When I see the infrastructure and facilities in this country, I yearn for development of such facilities in India also.

America the Wonderful - Trikkur Krishnan

I have been visiting the USA since 1987 and this is my tenth visit. Now, I have started losing confidence of travelling alone to and fro.A friend of mine suggested that I can take an escort. Is it practical? I have decided to settle down in USA.

I tell my friends in India that parents visiting their children in USA become bored as their children leave for work early in the morning and return late at night. Except for the week ends, they are left alone without any contact or engagement.

Now that I settled in USA, I joined the senior center where I could meet many friends and spend time usefully. In every town, there is a senior center where various activities like card games, pool games, exercises, etc. are offered. This helps elderly people to mingle with friends and engage themselves physically and mentally and lead a healthy, meaningful and peaceful life.

Recently we moved to East Brunswick and our house is located right across senior center. With the senior center and Library in easy reach, my life has become interesting.

We celebrated India Independence Day with pomp and show. Music, dance and fun. We dressed in traditional dress and served Indian dessert to all.

I wish every member a happy and healthy life.

History of Hyderabad - Bhavani Raya

My husband Sam Prabhakar Raya and myself came to the United States of America in 1999.Our two children have settled here with their jobs and we came here to join them. We are from Hyderabad, state capital of Andhra Pradesh, India. Here are some historical facts of Hyderabad.

Hyderabad was founded on the river Musi five miles east of Golconda in 1591-92 AD by Muhammad Quali Qutab Shah. In the 16th century the city grew rapidly along the banks of river Musi. At that time, Golconda was the capital of the rulers of Qutab Shahi dynasty. It is one of the five kingdoms that emerged after the break up of the Bahamani Kingdom. This dynasty ruled for nearly 171 years contributing to the growth and development of Hyderabad. During their rule, Golconda became one of the leading markets in the world of diamonds, pearls, steel and printed fabric. The glory of Golconda Kingdom ended in 1687.

Then Asif Jahi declared independence from Mughal rule in 1724 and thus became the first Nizam and the founder of the Asif Jahi dynasty. The seven successive Nizams of Asif Jahi dynasty ruled the deccan for nearly 224 years right up to 1948. During Asif Jahi period, Persian, Urdu, Telugu and Marathi languages developed simultaneously.

The highest official positions were given to deserving persons irrespective of their religion. Persian was the official language until 1893 and then Urdu became the official language until 1948.

The rule of the seven Nizams saw the growth of Hyderabad both culturally and economically. Huge reservoirs like the Nizam Sagar, Tungabadra Dam, Osman Sagar, Himayath Sagar and other dams were built. Hyderabad under the Nizams was the largest princely state in India. Areawise, it was as big as England and Scotland put together. The state had its own currency, mint, railways and postal systems. There was no income tax.

Soon after India gained Independence, Hyderabad state merged with Union of India. On November 1, 1956 the map of India was redrawn into linguistic states and Hyderabad became the capital of Andhra Pradesh