WholeDude

Whole Dude – Whole Greeting

**Whole Dude – Whole Greeting: Om, Namah Sivaya – The Five Letter Mantra – Traditional Indian Greeting-Namaskar**

TheTradition of Respect and Obedience:

**Whole Dude – Whole Greeting: Defining Indian Identity – The Traditional Greeting**

Deuteronomy, 5th Book of Moses, The Old Testament, The Holy Bible: Chapter 10, verse 16:

“Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no more stiff necked.”

The word ‘Namah’ means one that bends which implies obedience. The one word ‘Namaskar’ represents the full spectrum of the legacy of India’s Culture.

Namah Shivaya:

I shall begin this entry with a traditional greeting. As a kid I was trained to greet and acknowledge others. The greeting is called ‘Namaskar’ or ‘Namaste’. I would begin by greeting all of you who may read this entry with my ‘Namaskar’. Namaskar is the essence of our Culture and this single word can represent the full spectrum of our Cultural legacy.

Whole Dude -Whole Greeting: Defining Indian Identity – The Traditional Greeting. Lieutenant General T A D’ Cunha, Director General of Ordnance Services is seen saluting the Corps Colors in this photo image taken during AOC 8th Reunion Celebration at AOC Centre Secunderabad.

I served in Uniform. The lesson I grasped is that to Salute is the foundation upon which the entire structure of military discipline is built.Service in the Armed Forces depends upon team work.The team structure depends upon the ability of team members to recognize and acknowledge each other at all times. I salute to acknowledge the person as a member of my team. Army accomplishes great things only when the team members follow this ground rule for their conduct and behavior. Namaskar is the tool given to me by the Culture of my Land and this tool shapes my attitude and personal behavior and this tool helps me to attain my life’s goals.

Defining Culture:

**Whole Dude – Whole Greeting: Defining Indian Identity – The Traditional Greeting. Namaskar**

Culture is defined as learned or acquired behavior in contrast to biological behavior which is genetically endowed. Human Culture is defined as learned behavior acquired by individuals as members of a social group.Culture denotes a people’s heritage of custom and belief. It is a system of ideas that has been transmitted down through the generations. It includes assumptions about the world, about life and existence, rules and ways to act, goals and ways of achieving them. People’s ideas about ways to live may shape the ways they actually do live.Beginning at birth, each individual is encultured by a body of norms governing behavior and other knowledge that the society has. Thus Cultural Heritage can be defined as the sum total of human knowledge and acquired behavior.

Namaskar represents the essence of my Cultural heritage. Culture gives people a sense of personal identity. Defining that ‘identity’ helps in understanding the Culture. Namaskar is the behavior I learned and Namaskar defines my ‘identity’. It is a behavior transmitted to me through the generations.

Culture of the Land:

Whole Dude – Whole Greeting: Defining Indian Identity – The Traditional Greeting. The Land of India or Bharat Varsha is traditionally identified as ‘KARMA KSHETRA’ or ‘KARMA BHUMI’.Human Existence is operated by the ‘Law of Karma’.

The Land of India in our Culture and tradition is referred to as the land of Bharat. My purpose is to learn the ideas and thoughts that have found their roots in this particular Land. Ideas and thoughts help in developing and defining our attitudes.Our attitudes are reflected in our behaviors.The behavior which springs from the seeds of ideas and thoughts that were planted in the soil could be described as the Culture of the Land. The ancient Hindu Scripture known as Rig Veda has recommended that we should keep our minds open to receive noble thoughts from all directions. I studied Natural Sciences and I gained much of my information from ideas and thoughts expressed in books that were published in the West.The basic idea and thought that I had received was that we need to carefully sort out the information that we gather. Assimilation of information would be possible only when facts are considered in a systematic manner. I learned about plants and animals as a part of my study called Biological Science. Living things are connected and are related to each other.This interconnectedness and the interrelatedness describes the ecological system.There is a great amount of diversity in nature.To understand living things, we need to group them and learn about them as a part of an ecological system. We can not understand existence if we look at individual creatures.The reactions between the players of a given geographical area gives a better understanding of life and existence. I would like to use this kind of scientific tool to identify ideas and thoughts.Some ideas and thoughts could be assigned to a particular land in the same manner that a natural scientist would identify some species are ‘NATIVE’ and others as ‘NON-NATIVE’ in the description of an Ecological System. To prove that an idea is culturally derived, we need to demonstrate that the idea is transmitted through generations.To arrive at ideas that originated in the Land of India, I would prefer to obtain a sense of direction from my great grand mother, my grand mothers and my mother. If an idea was not known to them, it may not be a part of my cultural legacy. If they had known very little, I would deem it as my good fortune and that little is my whole inheritance. Namaskar thus represents the best of my acquired knowledge.

The importance of Namaskar:

NamaH Sivaya - Traditional Indian Greeting -Namaskar — **Whole Dude – Whole Greeting: Defining Indian Identity – The Traditional Greeting**

The word Namaskar is usually accompanied with the action of joining hands and bringing them together in front of the body with the elbows flexed and the neck slightly bent forwards.The joining of hands symbolizes respect and the bending of the neck signifies obedience. A person with ‘stiff neck’ is generally considered to be disobedient, rude, arrogant or proud. Respect can not be shown if the person does not display an attitude of obedience.The very essence of Indian Culture can be stated as that of showing respect and obedience. This is the most important behavior that is expected of every one. It is not merely about showing respect and of obedience to the Gods that people worship. Even the Gods that people worship also implicitly observe the rule about showing respect and obedience.This social expectation rules every relationship and activity. It is the basic expectation, let it be parent-child relationship, husband-wife relationship, teacher-student relationship, employer-employee relationship, the Ruler and the subject relationship, the relationship between siblings and even between friends. Respectful conduct is expected while receiving guests, while dealing with any elderly person even though the person may not be related. In addition, several plants, trees, birds, animals, rivers, the sea and the the hills and mountains enjoy a special status and are treated with great respect.This social behavior is encouraged at all times and specially kids are trained and tutored to display this behavior. I grew up in India and my childhood is shaped by learning this behavior. Also my culture has given the freedom of choice. I am free to worship several entities in addition to God. If I am not inclined to worship God, I may choose a living person, a plant, a tree, an animal, some element of nature or even a name and shapeless stone and I am free to worship that object with the same and similar amount of respect that one may give to God.The Gods of my Culture would not get angry or jealous if I am totally preoccupied with showing respect to an object of my choice. Most people of the Land of India get used to showing respect to a variety of objects.

Showing respect and obedience is considered as the most important learning tool to acquire humility. Through humility, the individual can subdue his ‘ego’. Ego is viewed as a great obstacle in the pursuit of self-knowledge. Self-Knowledge is the chisel that lets an individual to break the shackles of all attachments. Freedom from all attachments is described as Moksha or Liberation and as Mukti or Release.This cultural norm of showing respect and obedience and the use of Namaskar would help us in attaining life’s goal or to realize man’s purpose in life.

**Defining Indian Identity – The Traditional Greeting provides the tool to learn the cultural values of respect and obedience.**

Whole Dude – Whole Ganges

The Descent of Goddess Ganga - The Spirit of Nationalism — **Whole Dude – Whole Ganges: Defining Indian Identity – The Spirit of Nationalism. Mother Ganges is the Spirit of the Nation called India or Bharat.**

**Whole Dude – Whole Ganges: The Spirit of India**

“….The Ganges,above all is the river of India,which has held India’s heart captive and drawn uncounted millions to her banks since the dawn of history.The story of the Ganges,from her source to the sea,from old times to new,is the story of India’s civilization and culture,of the rise and fall of empires,of great and proud cities,of adventures of man….”

Discovery of India, Jawaharlal Nehru

Whole Dude – Whole Ganges: Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s First Prime Minister speaks eloquently about River Ganges shaping the lives of Indians throughout History. Mother Ganges is the Spirit of the Nation.

Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behati Hai (The Country Where River Ganges Flows)

Whole Dude – Whole Ganges: WHAT IS INDIA? INDIA IS DEFINED AS THE LAND OR COUNTRY WHERE RIVER GANGES FLOWS. INDIA CAME INTO EXISTENCE WHEN GANGES STARTED FLOWING THROUGH THIS LAND. RIVER GANGES IS THE SPIRIT OF THIS NATION

Raj Kapoor won Filmfare’s Best Actor Award in 1961 for his portrayal of ‘Raju’, a song writer, in his film titled ‘Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behati Hai’. The picture was released during 1960 when I was twelve years old and was studying in VI-Form (S.S.L.C. Class of March 1961) in Danavaipeta Municipal High School, Rajahmundry, East Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh, India.We had a beautiful marble statue of Mahatma Gandhi right in front of our school.I studied Indian History as part of my school curriculum.I used to score well in my History tests. It was not too difficult for me to remember all those dates,names and other facts that constitute the subject matter of History. I have a deep sense of appreciation for all those leaders who orchestrated the political struggle against the British Rule.The Freedom Movement did indeed foster a sense of purpose and united people to achieve a common goal. It could be true that the fight against the Colonial powers gave a sense of Identity and very often the freedom fighters were called ‘Satyagrahis’. I have great admiration for their sense of patriotism and I am ever grateful for the sacrifices they made to win our independence. I saw this movie ‘ Jis Desh Mein ‘ just once and may have heard the title song on the radio on a few occasions.But the song , “Hotoan pe sachhai rahati hai, jahan dil me safaai rahati hai, Hum uss desh ke vaasi hai, Hum uss desh ke vaasi hai, Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behati Hai” never faded from my memory.

**Whole Dude – Whole Ganges: Defining Indian Identity – Mother Ganges is the Spirit of the Nation called India or Bharat**

Ten years after seeing the movie, in the year 1970, at the age of 22 years , I was granted President’s Commission and joined the Indian Armed Forces in the rank of Lieutenant.While joining Service,we accept the risks that naturally accompany such an occupation and reflect upon the motivation that shapes the decision.I understand that the Freedom Struggle was important but that Struggle does not define my sense of National Identity.I have known that the country that we call India has existed long before the invasion by the Mughals,the country that we call India has existed during centuries of British Rule and now the country that we call India exists in spite of the changes in the political landscape and the political fortunes of the Parties that we elect from time to time. My sense of National Identity is not dependent upon the political history of our country. My sense of National Identity does not depend upon the language that I speak at home and it is not related to the regional customs pertaining to food or dress. I have known my country from its Cultural Traditions. In 1970,I joined the Indian Army to defend the country which lives in my mind as the Land where River Ganga flows.

Whole Dude – Whole Ganges: Mahatma Gandhi is revered as the Father of the Nation and had promoted the Spirit of Nationalism during India’s long Struggle for Freedom. But, Mother Ganges is the Spirit of this Nation called India or Bharat.

In my opinion, the country that we call India is not a mere political entity. It is true that India gained its political freedom in 1947. The country is existing ever since the River Ganges started flowing across its Land.

I am not surprised that the song “Jis Desh Mein” still plays and I still hear the golden voice of immortal Mukesh, whenever my heart dreams about India. Most certainly, the Spirit of Nationalism is inspired by a history which reaches back to a period earlier than the British occupation of India.

Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai Lyric

hothon pe sachchaaee rahatee hain, jahaan dil mein safaee rahatee hain
hum us desh ke waasee hain, jis desh mein gangaa bahatee hain
hothon pe sachchaaee rahatee hain, jahaan dil mein safaee rahatee hain
hum us desh ke waasee hain, jis desh mein gangaa bahatee hain
mehmaan jo humaaraa hotaa hain, wo jaan se pyaaraa hotaa hain
mehmaan jo humaaraa hotaa hain, wo jaan se pyaaraa hotaa hain
jyaadaa kee nahee laalach hum ko, thode mein gujaaraa hotaa hain
thode mein gujaaraa hotaa hain

bachchon ke liye jo dharatee maan, sadiyon se sabhee kuchh sahatee hain

hum us desh ke waasee hain, jis desh mein gangaa bahatee hain

kuchh log jo jyaadaa jaanate hain, insaan ko kam pahachaanate hain
kuchh log jo jyaadaa jaanate hain, insaan ko kam pahachaanate hain

ye poorab hain, poorabawaale, har jaan kee kimat jaanate hain
milajul ke raho aaur pyaar karo, ik cheej yahee jo rahatee hain

jo jisase milaa sikhaa hum ne, gairon ko bhee apanaayaa hum ne
jo jisase milaa sikhaa hum ne, gairon ko bhee apanaayaa hum ne
matalab ke liye andhe ho kar, rotee ko nahee poojaa hum ne
rotee ko nahee poojaa hum ne

ab hum to kyaa saaree duniyaan, saaree duniyaan se kahatee hain

hum us desh ke waasee hain, jis desh mein gangaa bahatee hain

Whole Dude – Whole Baptism

CULTURAL UNIFICATION OF INDIA – THE PRACTICE OF TIRTHA SNAN ( BATHING IN HOLY RIVERS )

Water plays an important role in a variety of Cultures and religious practices prevalent in this world.The role of water constitutes one of the most remarkable aspects of Indian religious life. Hindu religion is often described as Sanatana Dharma. The practice of bathing in a river is an unusual example of the continuance of an ancient tradition and hence I can refer to the practice of Tirtha Snan (The ritual of River Bathing) as “Sanatana” (of great antiquity) in its origin. Simply touching water is a purifying gesture in the Vedas. Pilgrimages (Tirtha Yatras) to holy rivers (Tirtha) was already known in Vedic and Epic times and it remains extremely popular up to the present day. In fact,my impression is that the practice has become more popular and a far greater number of people are participating due to the availability of modern time conveniences for travel and lodging.The news media consistently report that our river festivals such as “Kumbh Mela” and “Pushkarams” have established world records as the largest gathering of human beings upon this earth in one single day and for one single purpose.

The sacredness of a place is often due to the sanctity it derives from its location on the bank of a holy river (Tirtha Sthan or Tirtha Kshetra). The following verse is an example of such belief. The simple act of remembering the various places that River Ganges traverses through, is equivalent to the worship of all Gods and it bestows great blessings (Punya).

Tatra tatra sthita Ganga, Sarva Punya phala prada

Bhaveth smarana maatrena, Sarva Deva namaskruta.

Apart from bathing (Snan), holy waters are used in the ritualistic worship of deities,and the water used in the worship is used to sprinkle upon the heads of the devotees and also consumed by the devotee in acceptance of the blessings from the Deity. The devotee hopes for deliverance from sin or pollution (“Paap”), seeks preservation or enrichment of his religious merit (“Punya”), hopes for a reward such as rebirth in a heaven (“Swarg Lok”)and even total emancipation (“Moksha or Mukti”). There are instances when people had actually traveled to the holy city of Varanasi to die near the holy River Ganges. More often, the cremated remains, the ashes are carried by the loved ones and are physically sprinkled and immersed in the holy rivers such as Ganges to help the onward journey of the departed soul.

The worship of rivers and the practice of bathing is a belief that is connected with the traditional Indian views of earthly life. Indians believe in the theory of Karma. They believe that the acts of their present lives and their past lives would be a factor that determines the condition into which a being is reborn. The Karma binds the soul and compels it to go through an endless series of births and deaths. The cycle of birth, death and rebirth is called Samsara. In my previous entry, I described the fear of Samsara as the defining attribute of Indian Identity. The practice of bathing in a holy river is an example of the doctrine of Individualism. Even when millions of people travel and gather together to bathe in a river on one day, each is acting strictly to earn his own merit and to reap his own benefit and the community does not expect any share of the rewards that the bather may be granted. I bathe and wash my own sins and I can not be of any help to others if they carry the burden of their own sins. Each person has to accept individualistic responsibility for their own actions and if necessary they can seek help from others to get to the river and ask for assistance to bathe in the river.

**Whole Dude – Whole Baptism: River worship appears to be a communal event but its usefulness is strictly individualistic in nature.**

River worship appears to be a communal event but its usefulness is strictly individualistic in nature. Bathing is not viewed as a simple act of personal hygiene, it constantly reminds us of the need to seek purification and makes us aware of our responsibility for own actions and challenges us to face the consequences in our future lives. People are encouraged to seek the blessings that bathing in holy rivers would contribute even while they may be showering at home. The following verse is an example of our connection to the rivers that flow across our Land.

गङ्गे च यमुने चैव गोदावरि सरस्वति ।
नर्मदे सिन्धु कावेरि जलेऽस्मिन् संनिधिं कुरु ॥

Gange Cha Yamune Chaiva Godavari Saraswathi

Narmade Sindhu Kaveri Jalesmin Sannidhim Kuru

Meaning:
1: O Holy Rivers Ganga and Yamuna, and also Godavari and Saraswati,
2: O Holy Rivers Narmada, Sindhu and Kaveri; Please be Present in this Water (and make it Holy).

My introduction to River Worship

**Whole Dude – Whole Baptism: Defining Indian Identity. The tradition of River Worship. The celebration of Godavari River.**

Culture represents ideas and thoughts transmitted by one generation to the next. It indeed gives me a great pleasure to recall my learning of this unique Cultural Tradition while I lived at my Grandfather’s mansion in Innespeta of Rajahmundry town in East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh. During 1950s, I lived with my parents,two brothers, grand mother, her sister and my great grand mother. The house had bath rooms and we had regular piped water supply from the municipality. We would generally shower at home and on important festival days, we would bathe in River Godavari. My great grand mother was an exception to this bathing practice. She firmly believed in the practice of river worship and adhered to it every single day and almost till her final days of earthly existence. She was of short stature and she was already in her ninety’s and due to her age, her spine curved and made her even smaller. Her vision had deteriorated and she was able to see only a few feet ahead of her. Our house was located at the corner of Kalabargivari Street and the Ramalayam street.The Lord Sri Rama Temple of Innespeta is a well known land mark and it stands next to the protective river embankment. The river bank is fairly wide, it includes the railway tracks and a motor-able road. Much later, the second rail cum road bridge was built across Godavari River using these railway tracks. My great grand mother would walk to the river all by herself and used a walking stick to support herself. The walk to the river is short but she faced a lot of dangers on the street. Those days, the vehicular traffic was not a problem and crossing the railway tracks was not a problem. The biggest threat was posed by the stray animals such as goats and cows that roam freely on the streets. She was practically defenseless. As young boys at home, myself and my elder brother were often given the chore of escorting my great grand mother during her walk to the river. When we followed her as her escort, the animals always behaved better and would not come to attack her. The reward myself and my brother Pratap reaped was that of getting into the emerald green, crystal clear, cool waters of River Godavari and frolic in the shallow waters as my great grand mother did her worship. But for my great grand mother’s tenacity and perseverance, myself and my brother would never have ventured to make a trip to the river in the morning.

**Whole Dude – Whole Baptism: Defining Indian Identity. The tradition of River Worship. Pilgrims at Godavari River.**

It was a joyful experience and the Tradition of River Worship gave us some very fond memories of our life in Rajahmundry. The following verse speaks of the importance that we attach to rivers of India and they are treated with great respect as they are deemed to be the same as Ganges:

**Whole Dude – Whole Baptism: Defining Indian Identity. The tradition of River Worship.**

Kaveri,Tungabhadra cha, Krishnaveni cha, Gautamee

Bhagirathi cha vikhyata, Pancha Ganga prakirtita.

**Whole Dude – Whole Baptism: Defining Indian Identity. The tradition of River Worship. River Godavari Bridge in Rajahmundry.**

Whole Dude – Whole Name

Kapaleeshwarar temple in Mylapore, Chennai. — **Whole Dude – Whole Person: The Making of a Whole Name for the Whole Person. The Choice of the Name is predestined by the Science of Light called Jyotish .**

Defining Indian Identity - What is in a name? — **Whole Dude – Whole Person: The Making of a Whole Name for the Whole Person. The Choice of the Name is predestined by the Science of Light called Jyotish.**

The name ‘ Indian ‘ is related to the great river Sindhu which is also known as Indus. In 1492, Christopher Columbus sailed westwards towards setting sun to reach the shores of India. He discovered people living on islands whom he had mistakenly named as Indians. Apart from those island dwellers, the natives of the entire American continent, the so-called New World were named Indians. In spite of concerted efforts to rename them as Native Americans, the name Indian is still in use.

Name is a very important tool to describe personal identity. The word name as a noun, describes a person, place or thing. It is also a word or words by which an object of thought is known. Indians did not choose the name India or Indian. However, the people of our Land of BHARAT, are extremely fond of choosing names. This fondness for selecting, using and remembering names is an important Cultural attribute which defines our identity. In my case, the choice of the Name is predestined by the Science of Light. Earthly events have celestial connections.

The Tradition of Giving Names:

Whole Dude – Whole Person: The Making of a Whole Name for the Whole Person. Lord Shiva is known as Rudra, Neela Kantha, Pasupati and several other names. This fondness for selecting, using, and remembering names is an important cultural attribute which defines Indian Identity. The Choice of my Name is predestined.

The name ” Rudra ” is one of the earliest names known to humanity. According to legend, the Vedic God Rudra acquired His name from His Creator Brahma. As per the story, a boy was seen ‘crying’ and ‘wandering’. The father had asked the boy the reason for his ‘howling’. The boy had answered that he was ‘weeping’ for he was not given a name. So, the father created a name by bringing together two Sanskrit words which mean ‘crying’ and ‘wandering’. Thus the name Ru+dra was born. This legend is an example of our emotional dependence upon the need for names. The major Deities such as VISHNU and SHIVA that Indians worship are known by thousands of names and remembering those names is deemed as an act of devoted worship. The use of these names is a fundamental right and I understand the term religious freedom in the context of my freedom to choose the name that I would worship. The religious experience that I had gained while growing up in India relates to the use of names as an act of worship. Worship would have no meaning or purpose and would not give me a sense of direction if I do not remember the beautiful names that I have come to know.

A Personal Name and a Personal Story:

This landmark Temple of Kapaleeswara binds me to my birthplace of Mylapore, Madras(Chennai). The Presiding Diety of this Temple is chosen as my personal Protector and hence I am given the name of "RUDRA". — Whole Dude – Whole Person: The choice of my Name is predestined. This landmark Temple of Kapaleeswarar binds me to my birthplace Mylapore, Madras (Chennai). If my birthplace had been different, my Name would have been different. The Presiding Deity of this Temple is chosen as my personal Protector and hence I am given the name of RUDRA.

My personal name is very much a part of my personal story. If my birthplace had been different, my Name would have been different. My Name is chosen entirely due to the circumstances of my birth and I remain connected to the persons and the places for the rest of my life. I describe MYLAPORE of MADRAS city (CHENNAI) as my birth place and I describe RAJAHMUNDRY of East Godavari District as my native place.

Whole Dude – Whole Person: MY IDENTITY AND MY CONNECTION. I CALL MYSELF AS ‘REBBAPRAGADA’; MY MOTHER BELONGS TO THE ‘KASTURI’ FAMILY. THIS IS A PICTURE OF KASTURI BROTHERS. FROM LEFT TO RIGHT, 1. DR. KASTURI NARAYANA MURTHY, M.D. (MY MATERNAL GRANDFATHER), 2. KASTURI. SESHAGIRI RAO (MARRIED TO MRS. RUKMINI, DAUGHTER OF DR. SARVEPALLI RADHAKRISHNAN), 3. KASTURI NARASIMHA RAO, 4. KASTURI KRISHNA RAO, 5. KASTURI SOMESHWARA RAO, 6. KASTURI RAMACHANDRA RAO, AND 7. KASTURI SIVAPRASADA RAO (FAR RIGHT).

My mother had given birth to me at my maternal grandfather’s residence 2/37 KUTCHERY road in Mylapore. Corporation of Chennai, Public Health Department entered my birth in the Birth Register and issued a birth certificate which records my gender, the date and time of my birth, the place of my birth, the names of my father and mother, the registration number and it does not show my name as my parents did not give me a name while reporting my birth.

Whole Dude – Whole Person: My paternal grandfather. The family astrologer who had prepared my horoscope predicted an inauspicious event and the prediction came true five months after my birth. But the prediction did not deter my grandfather in any manner. My grandmother whose name I had acquired told me that my grandfather had loved me with all his heart without any concern about the astrological prediction.

I spent the years of my early childhood at my paternal grandfather’s mansion in INNESPETA of Rajahmundry, East Godavari District of Madras Presidency and later Andhra Pradesh, India.

As per the traditional belief and the practice of Vedic Astrology known as Jyotish (Science of Light), my birth star predicted and warned about some forthcoming inauspicious events. The astrological calculations suggested that remedial action is needed to counter the negative aspects of the birth star. Accordingly, my father had performed a ritualistic worship popularly known as Rudra Abhishekam and worshiped Lord Shiva at the beautiful KAPALEESWARAR temple of Mylapore. To ensure that I would always enjoy the blessings of Lord Shiva, my father decided to name me as Rudra. Hence, the name of Rudra instantly connects me to my birth place of Mylapore and to KAPALEESWARAR as my personal protector.

**Whole Dude – Whole Person: What’s in a Name? The making of a Whole Name for the Whole Person. The choice of the Name is predestined by the Science of Light called Jyotish.**

My birth star also had forewarned about consequences that would impact my paternal grandfather. There was no easy escape from the influences and the second part of my personal name was carefully chosen to please my paternal grandmother, Srimati. Lakshmi Narasamma. Because of the gender variation, the name Narasamma got transformed to Narasimham. This name immediately connects me to the Laws of Karma.

**Whole Dude – Whole Person: The Making of a Whole Name for the Whole Person. The choice of the Name is predestined by the Science of Light called Jyotish.**

These names are well-known and particularly in the southern States of India, the name Narasimham or variations of that name are frequently used. As long as I remain a conscious entity, my grandparents live in my consciousness. Astrology or Jyotish may not be a perfect Science. Horoscopes may not predict the future course of events in a person’s life. I exist in this world and I am known by a name which was specifically selected for me because of the predictions cast by my horoscope and the prediction came true and I find enough justification for this Indian Cultural Tradition called Jyotish.

**Whole Dude – Whole person: The Rebbapragadas Group describes people related to this group of people and others connected to Rebbapragadas.**

A unique name and a unique perspective:

In 1965, I joined Kurnool Medical College after I obtained a Bachelor of Science degree from Osmania University, Hyderabad. At Kurnool, a batch of B.Sc., degree students were directly admitted into the second year of the medical education program that awards the M.B.B.S degree. Professor Rama Murthy of the Anatomy Department was very fond of knowing and recognizing each of his students by their personal names. On the first day of our Anatomy class, the attendance register was not ready and Professor Rama Murthy had decided to call out names from the list of selected candidates. He very solemnly announced to the class that the roll call begins with a very angry and fiery name. We were intently listening to know what that name could be. Apparently, the list of selected students was prepared according to merit and my name was placed at the top of the list. He called my name and expressed his sense of disbelief. He asked me to verify my name and told the class that it was the first time in his life that he encountered a person with the personal name of Rudra Narasimham. His statement appears to be right and I have not known any other person who may have the same name. It is one of its own kind and is unique and special and these two names were put together to establish me as a Whole Person.

Whole Dude – Whole Person: Socrates implored people to ‘know thy self.’ He had stated that the unexamined life is not worth living. Understanding life involves understanding personal identity and name is a word by which an object of thought is known.

The name Rudra, the first part of my first name is related to SHIVA who is recognized as the God of Learning. Shiva is like Socrates. Socrates of 5th century B.C. is claimed to be the father of western thought. He had implored people to “know thy self.” Socrates had stated that the ‘unexamined life is not worth living’. Shiva guides me to reflect upon life. Shiva encourages introspection, reflecting upon your own mind and thoughts. Shiva defines that the purpose of learning is to acquire the ability to think for oneself.

The name Narasimham represents to me a Whole Person who defends my right to choose the Name for my worship. The story about PRAHLAD represents the Cultural importance attached to personal choice in matters of religious worship. Names of persons, places and the legends form a part of Cultural legacy of our Land and define the Indian Identity described by the Name Bharat.

**Whole Dude – Whole Name – The Making of a Name by the Science of Light. The performance of Rudra Puja at Kapaleeswarar Temple, Mylapore, Madras, Chennai was predestined.**

**Whole Dude – Whole Name – The Making of a Name by the Science of Light. Moola Star belongs to the Sagittarius constellation.**

**Whole Dude – Whole Name – The Making of a Name by the Science of Light. Moola Star of Sagittarius constellation.**

**Whole Dude – Whole Name – The Making of a Name by the Science of Light.**

Whole Dude – Whole Learning

Sri Raghavam Dasarathatmajam aprameyam

Sita-patim Raghu kulanvaya ratna deepam

Ajanubahum aravinda-dalayataksham

Ramam nisachara vinashakaram Namami.

Idol Worship – A Way of Life:

Worship of idols and images is an part of daily life in many Indian homes. Long before its birth as a political entity, the Land of India was recognized by the outside world as a Land where people worship idols. The plurality of gods in daily worship is a way of life. Indian people worship idols and images of one or another of the innumerable gods in their homes, in public places as well as in temples.

Childhood is a time of great learning experiences. A child imbibes Cultural values and learns Cultural traditions mainly at home while the child is dependent on and is educated by parents and other adults. Children acquire the Culture of the society they live in through a gradual learning process. My childhood learning experience of idol worship occurred in two places. While I was in Mylapore (Madras/Chennai City), the day would generally begin with a small errand. Myself and my elder brother Pratap would go out with a basket and gather flowers by just walking around in the neighborhood. Every home would keep some flowering plants which are traditionally used in daily worship. We were fond of gathering a variety of flowers for my maternal grandmother’s morning worship. It was a pleasant task and the fragrance of ‘Parijatham’ flowers that we gathered still lingers in my memory. I also spent my early childhood in Rajahmundry at my paternal grandfather’s home in Innispeta. My grandmother would also worship the morning rising Sun before starting her idol worship. Very often, we wait in the courtyard and alert our grandmother when Sun shows up in the sky. During the monsoon season, one has to patiently wait for the rain clouds to drift and let the Sun come out. At the end of her worship, we were always ready to receive the offerings (PRASAD) and there was always a sense of pleasure while waiting for these daily morning treats. Childhood was spent in observing the adults and on special occasions, the children at home participate in the worship while the elders give directions. The worship at temples was done in the company of parents and elders.

A Learning Experience from 1954:

I was six years old and was a fourth class student at King George Elementary School, in Innispeta of Rajahmundry. One evening, just after it became dark, my father experienced sudden abdominal pain. The intensity of his pain was very severe and he was alarmed by his condition. As the pain persisted, he started pressing people to notify others about his predicament and I remember that he wanted that his younger brother (a doctor) who was then working in Nagpur City, should be alerted with a telegram. At one point of this painful state, my father had even asked that he should be laid on the floor in the anticipation of an impending death. My two elder brothers, Hari and Pratap, and myself watched this scene and were moved into action. At my eldest brother Hari’s initiative, the three of us proceeded to Lord Sri Rama’s temple which is located near the Godavari river bank, a short walking distance from our home. The temple was still open and had only a very few worshipers as night had set in. We stood before the idols in total silence and paid our respects with the traditional greeting of ‘Namaskar’. Temple worship is a simple act. You just need to come before the idol and you are not really required to speak out your concerns and spell out the reasons for seeking the darshan (viewing the idol). It took a couple of minutes and the priest graciously gave us a mango fruit as ‘prasad’. Those few minutes that I spent standing mutely before Rama’s idol at night-time, is the reason that I still remember and recall my father’s abdominal pain after a lapse of about fifty-three years. I went to the temple with a sense of anxiety and with a sense of expectation that visiting the idol of Rama would somehow help my father to get rid of that terrible pain. I silently communicated my concern to the idol and I received a response. The response that I received was that of reassurance and comfort. I felt immediately relieved of a burden and felt upbeat and the feeling was one of instant gratification. Myself and my brothers returned home from the temple. I wanted to tell my father about our visiting the temple and I wanted to assure him that he would be alright if he would take a few drops of the juice from the mango fruit that we received from the priest. When we got back, the scene had changed. I did not get a chance to speak to my father and offer him the mango fruit. He had a large vomiting and threw up the food that he ate before. It helped him, his pain started to subside and he could rest without further problems. We retired for the night and the next day was just a routine day at the school. We never discussed that painful episode again and the communication that I received from Rama’s idol got preserved in my memory and my family had no chance to know about it.

**Whole Dude – Whole Learning: LORD RAMA. His image or idol is worshiped by Indian people. Is that a false belief? Is that a superstition? What is true Worship?**

The rest of the world may call my visiting Lord Rama’s idol as an act of superstition or false belief. My heart knows and my mind remembers that the idol gave me a sense of relief and comfort and my experience was real and genuine. Every one is welcome to take the place of that idol and if they are willing to be a source of comfort, and I am willing to have their darshan and worship them just like the idols that I would like to worship seeking a personal experience which is real while the basis for the belief is not easy to verify.

**Whole Dude – Whole Learning: The simplest form of Idol Worship involves standing before the Idol and greeting the Idol with palms pressed in front of you.**

Whole Dude – Whole Etiquette

Whole Dude – Whole Etiquette: India’s National Song, popularly known as ‘VANDE MATARAM’ was composed by Shri. Bankim Chandra Chatterjee/Chattopadhyay. It describes India’s Speech Tradition.

Bankim Chandra Chatterjee composed India’s National Song BANDE MATARAM (“Hail to Thee, Mother”). “Vande Mataram” became the Mantra and slogan of people of India in their struggle for independence.

**Whole Dude – Whole Etiquette: Defining Indian Identity. The Tradition of Speech Etiquette.**

In the Song Vande Mataram, the Land of India is described as Suhasini, and Sumadhura Bhashini .Suhasini refers to a person who can speak in a pleasant manner without being rude or offensive and provide a sense of cheer and humor to the listener. Sumadhura Bhashini refers to a person who speaks good and sweet words which gives a sense of pleasure to the listener.

Speech is the oral, audible expression of human language while talking. Man became characteristically human when he learned to speak. All human Culture and its propagation appears to depend on some form of language to serve as the vehicle for teaching, persuasion and tradition.

Speech is a very important aspect of human personality. Culture plays a significant role in the development of speech behavior. Particularly, in the Indian society, there are social expectations in the use of speech, speech mannerisms and in the observation of speech etiquette.The manner of speech is predictive of human behavior. Indians are expected to speak softly, in a sweet and pleasant manner. A loud-mouthed person is generally viewed as disrespectful, disobedient and disruptive. In the following poem, the famous Telugu Poet Vemana describes the importance of speech behavior.

**Whole Dude – Whole Etiquette: Telugu Poet, ‘SARVAJNA’, Yogi Vemana had described the importance of Speech Etiquette in a few simple sentences.**

Sri Kumaragiri Vema Reddy is popularly known as Vemana, Yogi Vemana (Telugu: వేమన) was a telugu poet. C.P. Brown, known for his research on Vemana, estimates the year of birth to be the year 1652 based on some of his verses. Vemana was the third and youngest son of Gaddam Vema, then the king of Kondaveedu in Andhra Pradesh.

Brass can produce high volume sound as compared to Gold but we consider Gold to be a precious metal and value its high quality in spite of its lack of ability to generate a loud sound. People who are mean-spirited and low in virtue speak in tones that reflects a sense of arrogance and self-importance. People of high virtue and good character would speak in a gentle and pleasant manner that reflects a sense of humility and the listeners would be pleased by listening to the words spoken. While speaking, the pitch and the volume of the sound is less important and we need to focus on the contents of our speech and offensive words must never be spoken raising the volume of speech.

Speech Etiquette and Indian Culture:

Indian Culture describes “Saraswati” as the Goddess of Speech or “VAK”. She is known as VAG DEVI. Indians worship her to obtain fluency and to become eloquent speakers. Our identity is related to the quality and content of our speech. Speech mannerisms, speech etiquette and speech discipline are parts of the grooming process of the children in our homes. In fact, the Indian Tradition of Learning begins only after imparting the importance of Speech Etiquette in the learning Process. Children are generally counseled to use some restraint in their speech. There are several words and phrases that identify an Indian speaker according to their speech quality and content.The phrase ‘Su Bhasini’ directs us to use good and pleasing words. The phrase ‘Mita Bhasini’ directs us to speak to the point using only a few appropriate words. The phrase ‘Manjula Vani’ directs us to speak in a beautiful and elegant manner.

**Whole Dude – Whole Etiquette: Indian Speech Etiquette is duly reflected in the Indian Traditional Greeting.**

The Indian traditional greeting Namaskar or Namaste represents the devotion to showing respect and displaying an attitude of obedience in public conduct. We can only meet this Cultural expectation by using a manner of speech which would convey the qualities of respect and obedience.

**Whole Dude – Whole Etiquette: The Tradition of Speech Etiquette. Speech reflects the character of the person who is speaking.**

Dr.Martin Luther King, the famous Civil Rights Leader of the United States wished for that day when his sons would not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. Similarly, a person’s identity should not be assumed by the person’s physical attributes but by his attitude and behavior. As an Indian, I wish to be identified not by the color of my skin. ‘Sumadhura Bhashini’ is the Cultural standard of our speech behavior. If you care enough, listen to me, my speech would reveal to you the country of my origin.

**Whole Dude – Whole Etiquette: Defining Indian Identity. The Tradition of Speech Etiquette. The Light reflects the traditions of Speech Etiquette.**

Whole Dude – Whole Puja

**Defining Indian Identity – Guru Puja. The Worship of Jagat Guru, the Great Teacher of the World.**

Defining Indian Identity – Guru Puja. The Worship of Jagat Guru, the Great Teacher of the World.

THE TRADITION OF “GURU” WORSHIP (PUJA):

Since Vedic times, in the Land of India, teachers are held in high esteem and the reverence is reflected in the following verse. According to my uncle, Capt.R. R. Rao, “there is no Mantra greater than this”:

Gurur Brahma, Gurur Vishnu, Gurur Devo Mahesvarah
Guruh Sakshaat ParaBrahma, tasmai Shri Gurave Namah.

My Guru:

After joining Kurnool Medical College in 1965, I started visualizing Lord Sri Krishna as my personal Guru.I had a pocket-size edition of Bhagavad Gita published by Gita Press, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.The book includes the verses in Sanskrit with its English translation.That format allowed me to read the verse in its original form and understand its purport through my own efforts.I had a hectic time at the School and was exposed to new information every day.

Over four and half years time, I studied Physics, Human Anatomy, Human Physiology, Medical Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Pathology, Forensic Medicine, Ear, Nose & Throat diseases, Ophthalmology, Social & Preventive Medicine, General Medicine, Surgery, and Obstetrics & Gynecology. Simultaneously, I was reading one or more chapters from Gita every day and was slowly incorporating Krishna as my Guru. I was more attracted to His teaching of “Karma Yoga” and I would still consider Him as my Guru even if “Gita” is the only known contribution made by Him.

My other Guru:

Adi Shankaracharya has emphatically stated that his identity is neither that of Guru nor that of a student or disciple. I am not free to describe him as my Guru and I cannot call myself his disciple. I need to reflect upon my Identity and seek that Identity to experience the Reality.

Fortunately,I did not spend any time and energy to search and discover the right Guru.The choice was made for me the moment I arrived on this planet.I grew up in a family which followed the “Smartha” tradition established by Adi Shankaracharya. I have the freedom to designate Shiva as my personal Protector. I am free to choose Rama as my Benefactor.I seek favors from Sarasvathi in my pursuit of Pure Knowledge.I make the perilous journey across the ocean with encouragement from Hanuman. Ganesha assures me of success in my personal endeavors. In my struggles and battle of life, Krishna guides me to find the winning strategy. If I have to defend my self, I draw courage from Bhavani. I love to read and memorize the beautiful verses composed by Adi Shankaracharya. I would just quote a verse which my eldest brother,Prof. R. Subba Rao recognizes as a very powerful thought:

Even after learning every thing that is humanly possible,we still need to desire and focus upon the lotus feet of the Master, the giver of Knowledge or the One who dispels ignorance. With the blessings from my other Guru,I describe my attitude about human existence as that of “Individualism.”

Na me mrtyu shanka na mejati bhedaha
Pita naiva me naiva mataa na janmaha
Na bandhur na mitram gurur naiva shisyaha
Chidananda rupah shivo’ham shivo’ham
Chidananda rupah shivo’ham shivo’ham

I have no fear of death, no caste or creed,
I have no father, no mother, for I was never born,
I am not a relative, nor a friend, nor a teacher nor a student,
I am the form of consciousness and bliss,
I am the eternal Shiva…

My elder brother Pratap stressed about the importance of “Guru Krupa” (Master’s Compassion). My Guru’s Mercy is revealed to me in the fact that I am able to work seven days a week.I can very easily manage to work eighty or more hours per week on account of this Guru-Sishya relationship while I maintain that I am a mere Individual and I am neither a Guru nor a disciple. I do not experience any stress or mental fatigue on account of sixteen hour work schedules. At the same time, I am mentally alert and could indulge in a bit of creative writing every now and then. Apart from this ability to work 365 days each year while I am 59 years old, the following verse shows that they are advantages in having Krishna as personal Guru:

bhagavadh giitaa kijnchidadhiitaa

gangaa jalalava kanikaapiitaa .

sakridapi yena muraari samarchaa

kriyate tasya yamena na charchaa

भगवद् गीता किञ्चिदधीता
गङ्गा जललव कणिकापीता .
सकृदपि येन मुरारि समर्चा
क्रियते तस्य यमेन न चर्चा .. २१..

Whole Dude – Whole Editor

**Letters to the Editor, The Ann Arbor News.**

My Indian Perspective on Current Events and Current Affairs

Excerpt: The given text presents a series of letters to the editor of The Ann Arbor News, addressing various topics including global issues, economics, social inequalities, religious sentiments, immigrant rights, military operations, scientific theories, relationships, capital punishment, autonomy in biological existence, embryonic rights, judicial insensitivity in the Schiavo case, and aspirations for peace. The writer emphasizes the importance of being aware of the Chinese domination of oil and its effects on geopolitical equilibrium. He critiques the military spending by the US in Iraq, advocate for the respectful treatment of immigrants, and stress China’s potential threat. His letters also encapsulate thoughts on citizens’ duty towards national growth and social justice, the significance of religious sanctity, and the role of self-awareness in promoting peace.

Sunday, June 15, 2008

If China dominates oil, it will dominate region

As the gas prices across the nation hit record high levels, I am not concerned about the United States’ dependence upon oil from the Middle East.

If the United States is not willing to buy its oil from the Middle East, China is in a position to gobble it up. The position of the United States as a global superpower is dependent upon its level of oil consumption. If and when China steps in to dominate the oil market, it would proportionately increase its military supremacy and we would witness the Chinese war ships patrolling the Persian Gulf.

The United States may forego its need for oil from the Middle East, but could it step back from its role to provide peace and stability in that region ?

Wednesday, April 09, 2008

McCain’s pragmatic approach preferable

It has been claimed that what is good for America is good for the rest of the world. America’s total spending for the Iraq war is about $617 billion. Does this military spending boost the national economy and create jobs? The verdict is that the military spending is draining resources from the productive economy. It has a detrimental impact on many sectors of the economy. It has resulted in slow economic growth, less investment, higher trade deficits and fewer jobs. The American economy has slowed down. The federal deficit spending has weakened the U.S. dollar in the global currency market.

Meantime, the national debt is expanding at about $1.4 billion a day. Currently, the national debt stands at about $9.4 trillion. In the fiscal year 2006, the U.S. government spent$406 billion on interest payments to the holders of the national debt. The national debt is projected to grow beyond $10 trillion by January 2009 when the new president takes office.

In spite of this bleak economic forecast, American national security will remain hostage to events on the ground in Iraq and Afghanistan. There is no easy way out. I would prefer to endorse the pragmatic approach of Sen. John McCain and that the U.S. troops can not really come home as being promised by his Democratic rivals.

Wednesday, February 27, 2008

Celebrities’ boycott of China deserves support

I am filled with optimism when I heard the news about the boycott of the Summer Olympic Games in Beijing by film director Steven Spielberg and actress Mia Farrow. I am hopeful that movements like the “Global Action Plan Day” would one day liberate the Tibetan people and people across the globe can work together to end the illegal occupation of Tibet and restore their rights for freedom and preserve their cultural identity.

Tuesday, December 25, 2007

Wage workers’ plight deserves attention

While The Ann Arbor News remains focused on the importance of hiring a new football coach, no one has the time to pay attention to the minimalistic existence of countless numbers of hourly wage workers who toil in your neighborhood friendly grocery stores/supermarkets and at the numerous strip malls that have sprung up in this city. These workers are unorganized, their wages are stagnant and their work-related benefits are getting gradually eliminated season after season. As the workers have no protection, they swallow unfair treatment which, if not rampant, is a fact of life.

Friday, October 12, 2007

Cartoon of beheaded Buddha reprehensible

The editorial cartoon picture of a decapitated Buddha that was published in The Ann Arbor News on Oct 3 is plainly disgusting and is clearly an insult. It serves no purpose other than to hurt the feelings of people who respect Lord Gautama Buddha. Having worked for the Central Intelligence Agency’s “Campaign for Tibet” for more than four years in the past, I have come to the following conclusions.

1. America’s support for democracy and human rights is good when and where it serves its selfish interests.

2. America does not care to give a hoot to Buddha.

Friday, July 27, 2007

Encourage immigrants to become taxpayers

I would like to commend Jean Miller for her July 23 Other Voices essay asking that each and every immigrant should be treated with dignity. There is also a valid and genuine concern expressed by others who claim that some of the undocumented immigrants may avail services without paying for them and become a burden upon the society.

I would suggest that every person arriving in the country should be encouraged and be given the opportunity to pay federal, state and local taxes on every penny they earn, even without showing any proof of legal immigrant status.The government has an obligation to protect the borders as best as is feasible and it will be easier to identify taxpaying aliens. Individuals who earn enough credits to derive benefits such as Social Security and Medicare should be given a preferential treatment to adjust their status, provided they maintain a clean, crime-free record during their stay.

Wednesday, April 25 , 2007

U.S. could give Iraqi families assistance

I served in the Land Forces of Sultanate of Oman from January 14, 1984 to July 26, 1986. I served in several different locations and had participated in several Security and Intelligence Operations in the Persian Gulf and particularly at Strait of Hormuz. The decision to embark upon a Journey to United States was made at KHASAB, Headquarters Peninsular Sector Force (Hq PENSEC). The airfield at Khasab was built by American engineers and I have reasons to believe that Khasab was used as a launching pad for the failed Helicopter Rescue Operation to save the American Hostages trapped inside Iran. At Khasab, we provide logistical support to all United States Naval vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The Khasab Air base also played a crucial role during the Gulf Wars. I had also supported other American military operations in Sultanate of Oman during my tenure of service in Oman.

On Easter Sunday morning I contemplated if the search for insurgents in Iraq could also include providing immediate relief to the inhabitants of the homes that are entered by the American troops.If no evidence of involvement in insurgency is discovered, the inmates of a home that is searched should be compensated for any property damage, their living conditions should be evaluated and relief aid should be delivered simultaneously.

The assistance could include giving bottled water, non-perishable food, nutritional supplements and oral rehydration fluids for children. Very sick persons when found should be transported to a field hospital.

Before I had arrived in Ann Arbor in 1986, I was taking part in a military operation of village patrolling to adddress the threat of Iranian infiltration across the narrow Strait of Hormuz. I could successfully reidrect the military intelligence operation into providing relief to people living in the remote and inaccessible villages of Musandam Peninsula of Sultanate of Oman. Amongst other things, I could use the military helicopters to transport people to visit the dentist at Khasab hospital.The air base at Khasab plays a significant role in the Persian Gulf and could be used to provide humanitarian services.

Money spent upon the reconstruction effort is not making a positive impact on the quality of life of ordinary Iraqi people. The principle of dignity of human life should be upheld at all times. The military security and intelligence operation to find insurgents in Iraq should include some elements of mercy and compassion.

Wednesday, December 27, 2006

Sound of the ‘big bang’ impossible to prove

Writers of Other Voices and letters to the editor on the subject of creation/evolution frequently mention the “big bang theory.”

On this planet Earth, a sudden loud noise is often accompanied by destruction.Our telescopes and other instruments observe dramatic stellar events like supernovae, but do not record any evidence of loud sounds.Sound needs an elastic medium such as solid, liquid or gas through which sound waves could propagate.Sound cannot exist in a vacuum. There is no way a scientist could prove or verify the sound the “big bang” might have caused.

So, who created this “void” and made it impossible to hear the bang?

Thursday, November 23, 2006

Gratitude for the rising and the setting sun

This Thanksgiving Day, I want to give my thanks to The Ann Arbor News editor who is in charge of publishing the daily weather report. The weather forecast includes two tiny bits of information which I value immensely. The time of sunrise and sunset are the most important events that shape my life. The reality of my human existence is totally dependent upon this illusionary effect of sunrise and sunset. Apart from the physiological functions of my body, the existence of my mind in its three different states (awake and alert, resting and at sleep, partly conscious and dreaming) depend upon these cycles of periods of light and darkness.Dreaming is a very valuable human experience and I would not like to have that experience during daytime. In reality, the sun shines all the time but I am more happy with the illusion. In India, our people had given beautiful names to the sun. Some of those names are Aditya, Bharga, Divakar, Prabhakar, Ravi, Savitur and Surya.

The daily weather report reminds me that I should remain thankful for my existence and remember the Creator who made possible day and night without turning out sunlight.

Sunday, September 24, 2006

Gay relationships deserve respect

Letters to the Editor, The Ann Arbor News: “That which is done out of Love always takes place beyond Good and Evil.” Man with his Good or Evil actions and behavior cannot control the flow of God’s Unconditioned or ‘WholeLove’.

As another election season arrives in this country, we need to recognize the unfortunate fact that the issue of according equal rights to gay and lesbian couples got buried in the quagmire of ignorance, religious fanaticism and political opportunism.

Gay and lesbian relationships are neither deviant nor represent the overstepping of any spiritual laws. All human relationships, whether between members of the same sex or members of the opposite sexes, are motivated and driven by the same emotional factors that are an integral part of human nature. Humans are ruled by their emotional needs and less so by the biological insticts of reproduction. Any woman on this planet with the strongest of maternal instincts would still desire companionship as much as motherhood.

Reproductive success or failure does not determine if the relationship survives or perishes. The relationships among humans neither succeed nor fail on account of the sexual orientation of the partners. Partners in a married relationship could stay together for decades even in the total absence of sexual activity and no social benefits are denied to such couples.

Truthfulness is the core value of human existence. Being truthful, you would hope to build up a true relationship with your God.

Since all relationships are equal, no particular relationship should be placed on a pedestal while other relationships are ignored or put to ridicule. It is morally imperative to treat all relationships with a sense of fairness and equality.

Thursday, July 13, 2006

Death penalty’s correct purpose is retribution

An article June 19 in The Ann Arbor News on state Rep. Dan Acciavatti’s initiative to amend the state’s constitution to provide the option of the death penalty doesn’t mention the word “retribution.” The purpose of the death penalty is not to protect the rest of the society from violent and vicious criminals. The state has a moral obligation to respect a natural entitlement of the murder victim. The victim’s right to retribution is the real issue in all cases of murder.

Murder is inhumane because it takes away a human being’s right to exist. Murder is immoral because it is a sign of disrespect and disobedience of law. The law that states that “thou shalt not kill” is not a law instituted by man. It is the law given to man. The state should impose death upon people who violate and disobey this law. The death penalty is a just and reasonable consequence of the murderous action of the violator.

Michigan should not shirk from its duty to recompense the murder victims. The state should join the ranks of the rest of the civilized society where people have the opportunity to learn and understand the consequences for their actions and appreciate the values of personal responsibility and accountability.

Tuesday, March 7, 2006

Nature hasn’t given humans right to choose

The words choice and autonomy are frequently mentioned while people express their opinions about issues that pertain to life, issues such as when life begins and the manner in which it may end.

The right to abortion and the right to assisted suicide may lead us to this question. Is there choice or autonomy in the biological existence of human life?

The human body is made up of trillions of cells. The cells perform a variety of fuctions. For human growth and development, a very important function would be that of cell division and multiplication, also known as reproduction. Is there a single cell whose functions we can choose to control and regulate as we please? There is no choice if we do not have the freedom to choose. Is there a single cell whose functions we can directly govern? There is no autonomy when we do not have the ability to govern.

We may cause cellular death to protect the rest of the body from death. This principle is widely used in treating various cancers and to safeguard maternal health while managing complications of pregnancy.

Nature has neither endowed us with the liberty to choose nor bestowed us with the right to govern the cells that make up the human being. The cycle of birth and death may give us pain and we may experience severe loss of function.

Fortunately, there is hope.We can cope with the problems of human existence with our great ability to show compassion.

Sunday, August 07, 2005

Embryo has natural right to growth, development

Letters to the Editor, The Ann Arbor News: Embryo has the Natural Right to Growth and Development. Human Embryo Implantation at about six days after Conception. The Single, fertilized Egg Cell and the Human Embryo that develops from it is Conscious of its existence reflecting its Spiritual Nature.

The ethical concerns that are involved in the conduct of research on living human embryos stem from the unique status of the embryo. It is prudent to discuss if the embryo could be assigned any rights that are entitled by a research subject. The embryo has a natural right to growth and development. We need to ask what actions constitute the misuse or abuse of an embryo.

During the biological life cycle, the human being should have a constitutional right to live with dignity at every stage of natural existence. The society has no inherent right to conduct research on embryos. We need to spell out the role of biological parents. Parental accountability and responsibility should be stated in clear terms to ensure that the embryo receives fair and ethical treatment.

Tuesday, April 19, 2005

Court decision in Schiavo case is insensitive

The attitude displayed by the U.S. judicial system is very shocking and disturbing. Justice proved itself to be not only blind but also totally insensitive to the human condition.

To offer water to a dying person is an ultimate act of kindness and compassion. Customs and traditions established in the ancient land of India make it obligatory to pour water into the mouth of a dying person even if the person is totally unconscious.

A person may not vocalize the sensation, but thirst is experienced till the final moments of life.

The U.S. Supreme Court helped to transform the legal guardian into a brutal dictator. Terri Schiavo was a disabled person who was murdered in broad day light. A handicapped person was legally exterminated in a very calculated and deliberate manner by the acts of a heartless, loveless, materialistic society.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 29, 1999

We can attain peace if price is affordable

As we await the dawn of a new year, a phrase that comes to my mind is that of “peace on Earth.”

The history of international peace keeping efforts and the various peace movements is well documented. The annual costs of peace keeping efforts in Bosnia have been reported as $5 billion. If the assessment of Israeli officials is correct, they can make peace with Syria at a nominal price of $18 billion. It appears that we can attain peace if the price is right and affordable.

Is peace a mere absence of war and international conflicts? If society and the times we are witnessing are any reflection on the state of peace, we should definitely ask ourselves the question, is peace attainable?

The various manifestations of violence in our society, whether it is gun violence at schools, violence at work-places, or domestic violence are all aspects of a lack of peace-keeping ability. In general terms, violence is seen as a law and order problem. We can approach the problem of violence in a different manner. Violence may be seen as the expression of a mind that is not at peace. Violence may be attributable to a mind, which is not experiencing an inner feeling of tranquility.

The way to prevent violence would be through promoting self-awareness. You do not really need a teacher to achieve self-awareness. You are the observed as well as the observer. Your inner eye keeps a constant watch on all of your thoughts, feelings, emotions and moods. Your vigilance would have an effect and subdue the anger or rage you may be experiencing.

People need to learn and practice the simple task of observing their own thoughts. The essence of human existence is self-knowledge and the ultimate goal of living would be self-awareness. Every human being is capable of exhibiting kindness and tolerance, is capable of expressing sympathy and is capable of sensing happiness.

While the government is busy spending billions of dollars to secure peace elsewhere on this planet, it will be a wise and an inexpensive step on our part to pay attention to our own inner peace and attaining that peace through self-awareness.

**Letters to the Editor, The Ann Arbor News – Peace through Self-Awareness**

**Whole Dude – Whole Editor: The Final Edition of The Ann Arbor News**

Whole Dude – Whole Family

Mata cha Parvati Devi, Pita DevO Maheshwaraha,

Bandhava Shiva bhakta cha, SwadeshO Bhuvana trayam.

**Whole Dude – Whole Family – Vasudhaika Kutumbam, the concept of One Global Family with One Universal Divine Mother.**

Parvati is Mother, Lord Shiva is Father, His devotees are relatives and all the three worlds (Bhu Loka, Bhuvar Loka and Suvar Loka – Earth, Sky and Heaven/SAT, CHIT, ANANDA) are my native place.

The Theory of Samsara and the Social Concept of Vasudhaika Kutumbam

As a student of Natural Science, the study of relationships has always interested me.The scientific study of Ecology describes the interconnectedness, the interrelatedness and the interdependence of living creatures in a given environment.A study of Ecosystems deals with the concepts of Mineral Sharing, Energy Flow and Population Control.Living organisms belong to social communities.The understanding of ecological principles would help us to come together as one large global community and it would enable us to treat life with a sense of respect and appreciate the intrinsic beauty and value of all living creatures.

**Whole Dude – Whole Family: The concept of Vasudhaika Kutumbakam, the concept of One Global Family**

By birth, I belong to the Land of India where I inherited my views about human existence and the social community.The word ‘relative’ when used as a noun describes a person who is connected to the other by way of birth or by way of marriage.

**Whole Dude – Whole Family: The concept of One Global Family**

By birth, I am connected to the Land of India and by acquiring the theory of ‘SAMSARA’, I am related to all the living creatures of this planet Earth. My soul while transmigrating over several cycles of birth and rebirth has become connected not only to the human beings but also developed relationships with plants and animals.This is a fundamental concept that defines my Indian Identity. I am an eternal being and I am related to a myriad of life forms.

While living in Ann Arbor, Michigan I met with a group of young students of Pakistani descent at the local Huron High School. I am a total stranger to this group of young people. The older kid in the group came forward and addressed me as Uncle.This is precisely my own social experience.While growing up as a kid in India, I was always encouraged to recognize other members of the community as if I am related to them by birth. The social norm is to address others in an appropriate manner and even total strangers are treated with respect and are included as a part of an extended circle of family members.I greeted people living in my neighborhood as uncles and aunts. Amongst the members of the Armed Forces and their families this kind of affiliation and a sense of togetherness is much more pronounced. While I served in Uniform, the members of Service families always spoke to me as if I am their brother or their uncle. This social custom of inclusiveness is reflected in our popularly expressed sentiments. Mahatma Gandhi is recognized as “BAPU”(Father). As a child, I grew up knowing the Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru as “CHA CHA” (Uncle)Nehru.

Whole Dude – Whole Family – Vasudhaika Kutumbam, the concept of one Global Family. BOTH ANIMATE AND INANIMATE MATTER DERIVE THEIR IDENTITY BECAUSE OF UNVARYING OR UNCHANGING NATURE OF CHEMICAL ELEMENTS THAT CONTINUOUSLY FLOW IN NATURAL NUTRIENT CYCLES.

Plants obtain their minerals and other nutrients from the soil. Calcium is an important mineral constituent of my bones and it helps to define my physical identity. Iron is the other mineral which is important to the blood that flows through my body and sustains my physical existence. By sharing the minerals and from the energy that flows into my life from plants and animals, I get connected to the soil and I get related to the Land of my birth. I further strengthened my connection to the Land by choosing to serve it and defend it.

Whole Dude – Whole Family – Vasudhaika Kutumbam, the concept of One Global Family: Life depends on the interwoven and interdependent relationships between living organisms and the environment. No organism leads a truly independent existence of its own. Each organism lives by either consuming other organisms or the products from other organisms. In a Biological Community, Life and Death have a relationship which has a Spiritual Basis.

We are all connected and we are all related to each other. Either you could explain it in terms of Cellular Biology and Ecology or you could see it as a consequence of the cycles of birth and rebirth and transmigration of the soul through living entities.

**Whole Dude – Whole Family: Vasudhaika Kutumbakam, the concept of One Global Family.**

Whole Dude – Whole Telugu

Garlanded Statue of Potti Sri Ramulu — **Whole Dude – Whole Telugu: Defining Indian Identity-The Language Factor. Tribute to Potti Sriramulu**

My maternal grandfather, Dr.Kasturi. Narayana Murthy, M.D. was the personal physician, friend, and confidant of Amarajeevi Potti Sriramulu. My grandfather published a paper giving a detailed account of the changes in the clinical condition of Potti Sriramulu during the entire period of the fast from 19 October 1952 to 15 December 1952, a historical fast unto death. I did not learn about the history of the formation of Andhra Rashtra and later Andhra Pradesh from visiting libraries and from reading books. I am an eye-witness to the historical process and I learned about the key personalities involved in shaping these historical events through my family connections.

'VISALA ANDHRA' -My life's journey began in Mylapore,Madras while Telugus and Tamils lived together in a composite State. I was a student of Danavaipeta Municipal High School,Rajahmundry,East Godavari District(S.S.L.C. March 1961); a student of Government Giriraj Arts College,Nizamabad,Nizamabad District( Pre-University and 3-year B.Sc, April 1965);a student of Kurnool Medical College, Kurnool, Kurnool District(M.B.B.S. April, 1970).My father had served in Presidency College,Madras,Victoria College,Palghat,Government Arts College,Rajahmundry, Srikakulam, Giriraj College,Nizamabad, Nagarjuna Arts College, Nalgonda, and B.Ed College, Warangal and other places.I got married in Cuddapah and served in Secunderabad Cantonment during my military service. I had lived my life in the composite State of Madras, and the three regions of Andhra Pradesh and in the two Capital cities of Kurnool and Hyderabad. — Whole Dude – Whole Telugu: ‘VISALA ANDHRA’ -My life’s journey began in Mylapore, Madras while Telugus and Tamils lived together in the composite Madras State (Madras Presidency). I was a student of Danavaipeta Municipal High School, Rajahmundry, East Godavari District (S.S.L.C. March 1961); a student of Government Giriraj Arts College, Nizamabad, Nizamabad District (Pre-University Course and 3-year B.Sc, April 1965); a student of Kurnool Medical College, Kurnool, Kurnool District (M.B.B.S. April, 1970). My father served in Presidency College, Madras, Government Victoria College, Palghat (Palakkad),Government Arts College, Rajahmundry, Government Arts College, Srikakulam, Giriraj Arts College, Nizamabad, Government Nagarjuna Arts College, Nalgonda, and B.Ed College, Warangal and other places.I got married in Cuddapah and served in Secunderabad Cantonment during my military service. I lived my life in the composite State of Madras, and the three regions of Andhra Pradesh and in the two Capital cities of Kurnool and Hyderabad.

**Whole Dude – Whole Telugu: Defining Indian Identity-The Language Factor. Tribute to Potti Sriramulu Garu.**

**Whole Dude – Whole Telugu: Defining Indian Identity-The Language Factor. GREETINGS TO BELOVED MOTHER TELUGU**

After leaving the shores of India in 1984, I had no problems of identity as people of other countries very easily find me as a person of Indian origin. However, while I lived in India, my identity had been a very ticklish issue. My birth place is Mylapore, Madras. Since I belonged to a Telugu speaking family, I met problems with embracing the local identity and describe myself as a native of Madras City. As I grew up in Madras, I have seen the growth of Dravida Munnetra Kazagham (D.M.K) as a political force.I saw the bullock cart processions led by Shri.C.N.Anna Durai. As a kid, I grew up with an uneasy feeling. I lived with a sense of fear that the D.M.K Party would not let me claim Madras as my native place. (Because of Lord Kapaleeswara, I still keep a very strong sense of my emotional bonding with Mylapore.) Simultaneously, in 1952, I witnessed Shri.Potti Sri Ramulu who fasted unto death for the creation of a separate State for the Telugu speaking people. This was a historical event. In this fasting saga, my maternal grand father Doctor.Kasturi Narayana Murthy, M.D played a significant role in his capacity as the personal physician of Potti Sri Ramulu who observed the fast in Mylapore in the house of Sri.Bulusu Sambamurthy. Incidentally, my grand father for the first time in medical history had carefully documented the changes in the medical condition of his fasting patient and later published a paper.The fast began on October 19, 1952 and ended on December 15, 1952.This historical event was also witnessed by my maternal grandmother’s brother who was fondly known as ‘Tambi Mavayya’ and his name is Budhravarapu Ch. Narayana Murthi, a high-ranking State official. I remember watching the massive funeral procession of Potti Sri Ramulu as it passed through Mylapore and it became a turning point in the history of post-independence India.The political map of India was redrawn. Prime Minister Nehru had to reluctantly agree to the formation of Andhra State and later this historical event paved the way for the formation of linguistic States throughout India in 1957.

**Whole Dude – Whole Telugu: Defining Indian Identity-The Language Factor.Mahatma Gandhi is the Father of the Nation and Jawahar Lal Nehru is the Spirit of the Nation.**

On October 1, 1953 the new State of Andhra had come into existence with Kurnool as its Capital. Prime Minister Nehru attended the inaugural function. My grandfather was among the dignitaries seated on the dais. In that Andhra State formation’s Inaugural Function, my grandfather was included as he had witnessed the greatest act of sacrifice and he symbolized the presence of that Departed Soul of Potti Sri Ramulu. Prime Minister Nehru was very upset and visibly angry and refused to formally meet my grandfather. My grandfather, Dr. K N Murthy told me that Nehru’s face turned crimson with anger resembling a red apple. My grandfather narrated to me that he made an attempt trying to greet Nehru with due courtesy and had extended his hand to offer a hand shake.Nehru specifically refused to extend his hand and give a hand shake. Andhra Kesari Sri Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu garu was chosen as the first Chief Minister and Neelam Sanjiva Reddy was selected as the Deputy Chief Minister. Budhravarapu Ch Narayana Murthi was appointed as the first Law Secretary in the newly formed Andhra State Government and had lived in Kurnool. All of these people known to me had immense respect for Prime Minister Nehru and valued his contributions to our Nation. Telugu people wanted to take part in National Affairs with a sense of Self-Pride and as equals. The Tamils undermined this sense of Self-Respect which Telugu people value in their dealings with others.

Whole Dude – Whole Telugu: Defining Indian Identity-The Language Factor. Andhra Kesari. Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu Garu, the First Chief Minister of Andhra Rashtra – A witness to the vision shared by Potti. Sri Ramulu

Prakasam Pantulu Garu died in 1957 and Dr. Kasturi. Narayana Murthy had received the urn containing the ashes when they had arrived at Madras by train. Dr. Murthy immersed the ashes into Bay of Bengal at Marina beach. This function was attended by a very huge gathering of Telugu people in Madras. Dr. Murthy addressed this gathering in spite of running a high fever. Dr. Murthy was not a politician. He worked as Professor of Medicine at Madras Medical College and being a Physician he came to know several political leaders of Telugu people and many of them had developed a very intimate and a close personal relationship with him. Dr. Murthy had also a very good relationship with Neelam Sanjiva Reddy and Damodaram Sanjeevayya (the Second Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh) from the beginning of their political careers in the Freedom Movement.

**Whole Dude – Whole Telugu: Defining Indian Identity-The Language Factor. Neelam Sanjiva Reddy, the First Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh.**

**Whole Dude – Whole Telugu: Defining Indian Identity-The Language Factor. Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu Garu retired from active politics in 1955.**

There is a sense of sadness and bitterness about the regional politics of this country where language had become a major player in the political arena. Eventually, the State of Andhra Pradesh had come into existence on November 1, 1956 after the addition of nine districts of Telangana which were earlier a part of the State of Hyderabad. Neelam Sanjiva Reddy was the first Chief Minister of the newly formed State of Andhra Pradesh. The City of Hyderabad was chosen as the Capital for the newly formed State of Andhra Pradesh. The government buildings vacated in Kurnool were given to Kurnool Medical College. Tanguturi Prakasam Pantulu Garu took the initiative in the formation of Sri Venkateswara University in Tirupati. Kurnool Medical College is affiliated to Sri Venkateswara University. The history of the formation of Andhra Rashtra with Kurnool as its Capital still survives at Kurnool Medical College and the residential quarters. My grandfather left Madras city and found his new home in Hyderabad and Hyderabad became my travel destination for all of my vacations.I had my schooling in all the three areas which came together as a State to represent the Telugu speaking people. In the Coastal Andhra city of Rajahmundry, I could develop a strong sense of Telugu Identity and I am proud of that Identity and cherish that Identity that describes me as a Native of Rajahmundry. I was a student at Danavaipeta Municipal High School from 1955 to 1961. While I was a student at Government Giriraj Arts College in Nizamabad (1961 to 1965) of Telangana region and later while I was a student at Kurnool Medical College in Kurnool (1965 to 1970) of Rayalaseema region, the student community expressed some negative feelings about my Telugu identity and a true sense of harmony was sadly lacking. This particular statement has offended my friend Shri. Apkari. Suryaprakash( who is a well-known Telugu Poet and was recognized by AIR as the Poet of the Year) of Nizamabad who did his B.A. degree course at Giriraj Arts College while I was a B.Sc student. I need to clarify my observation. It is not my intention to state that my friends; I had only two friends while I studied in Nizamabad, namely Shri. S. Mohan Reddy and A.Surya Prakash did not entertain any negative feelings towards me. I am only speaking about the rest of the student community. I had participated in College Elections on two occasions while I was in Giriraj Arts College and got defeated both the times. Suryaprakash being a student of the B.A. class did not take part in my election which was exclusively decided by the B.Sc students. I am saying that I did not enjoy enough support amongst my classmates studying B.Sc to get elected. This election experience has painfully followed me while I was a student at Kurnool Medical College. I tried and failed in the College Election where the concerns about my Identity have played a role. We need to admit and recognize that there are regional differences amongst Telugu people and these differences become apparent in the political arena. My friendly connections to these places have survived. Amongst Telugu speaking people, three political identities exist, the identities of Coastal Andhra, Rayalaseema, and Telangana. This did not distract me from serving my Nation. In 1967, I had the opportunity to represent the State of Andhra Pradesh at a National Student Seminar on “National Integration.” This was a month long major event and the Seminar took place in New Delhi. Many in the student community viewed the language factor as a major hurdle in achieving the goal of National Integration . While I got rejected in the College Elections because of regionalism amongst Telugu people, I still made my personal choice, and got married in Cuddapah making Cuddapah (Kadapa) of Rayalaseema as my second Home Town.

Whole Dude – Whole Telugu: N.T.R. and Telugu Desam Party symbolized my sense of Self-Pride and Self-Respect and I take pride in the fact that I had supported N.T.R. who became the 10th Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh in January 1983.

While I was posted in Secunderabad, Sri.N.T.Ramarao founded the Telugu Desam Party in 1982. NTR’s message was that of upholding the self-respect of Telugu speaking people and he won the election in January, 1983. I supported NTR and his Telugu Desam Party hoping that the new party would build bridges and bring Telugu people together onto a single platform and would give Telugu people an opportunity to play a meaningful role in National Affairs. I was particularly happy with the 1982 Election results because of N.T.R. led Telugu Desam Party performed very well across the three regions of Andhra Pradesh and Telugu people truly joined hands to project an image of Unity and Solidarity. Telugu Desam Party started with a noble mission and had slowly slipped in its resolve to uphold its ideals of uniting Telugu people and bringing them together on a common political platform.

Sanskrit, The Language of my Culture:

The ‘Three Language Formula’ was conceived as a solution to bring Indian people together and to overcome the linguistic differences. Under this formula, I studied Telugu as my first language (mother tongue), English was my second language (Link language), and studied Hindi as my third language (national language). All the central ideas and thoughts that define our Indian Culture find their expression in the Sanskrit language. I wish that I had studied Sanskrit as my third language under the ‘Three Language Formula’. I am very hopeful that Sanskrit could play a more useful role in promoting National Unity and National Integration. During the years that I had spent in the Indian Army, I became fond of both Hindi and Urdu which had firmly linked me to the rest of the Nation. The sweetness of Urdu could foster a better relationship between Hindu and Muslim Communities. While I lived in Nizamabad, the golden voice of immortal Mohd. Rafi shaped my love for Urdu language. While Telugu gives me the sense of personal identity, and a sense of personal dignity, Sanskrit gives me the ability to connect to my past, and provides a sense of historical purpose; I still need Hindi and Urdu to reach the rest of the Nation; and English provides the bridges to cross the linguistic divide. The story about Telugu speaking people, their aspirations for regional identities continues today and all of Telugu people should come together to discuss this issue.