Citizens' Awareness of Poverty and Social Hierarchy in India's Society: An Examination by Farrukh Dhondy
In the heart of Poona (now Pune), where the author grew up, the streets were a bustling tapestry of life. Amidst the hustle and bustle, two boys could be seen following the local cook from the market, their eyes fixed on the leftover bits of bhindi. The cook, with a kind gesture, would intentionally leave larger pieces for the boys, who would gather them to eat.
This scene, reminiscent of the author's childhood, is just one of many that marked his early years in India. A strong awareness of the shameful poverty and caste and class differentials in the country left an indelible impression on him. His heart ached for the boys, particularly the older one whose stomach appeared to be bending inwards.
The author's concern extended beyond the streets of Poona. He questioned whether the current political leaders in India were dedicated to eliminating grinding poverty in cities and rural areas. His observations led him to embrace egalitarian aspirations and develop socialist and Marxist convictions.
Fast forward to the present, the author finds himself in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. A stark contrast to his childhood, he was only accosted by one armless beggar on the street. This comparison serves as a poignant reminder of the vast disparities that exist across the world.
The author's childhood memories are also intertwined with the vibrant Parsi culture. Every Parsi new year, he would visit a fire temple with his family. The itinerant Parsi new year, known as "Papeti," would often bring a regular beggar seeking alms.
The Parsi calendar has two new years: one stable at the vernal equinox and another itinerant that moves through different months. The Zoroastrians, the ancestors of Parsis, have adopted the vernal equinox as the beginning of the year, which is celebrated by Parsis as Jamshedji Navroze.
In his book "Grannies Gripes and Growing Up," the author wrote a sonnet-story about "ladies' fingers" or "bhindi." The dish being referred to is called "bheeda par eeda," a dish of chopped vegetables (ladies' fingers or "bhindi") with eggs on top.
The moon in the sonnet "Sonnets for The Dawn" by the author of "Grannies Gripes and Growing Up" may symbolize light, guidance, inspiration, and sometimes emotional reflection or transience, though the exact significance in this particular poem remains unconfirmed. If we were to analyse the poem, the moon could represent emotional or spiritual guidance during dark or challenging times, a symbol for cycles of change, contrast, or anticipation of dawn and renewal, or possibly reflect themes of loneliness or hope, common in sonnets dealing with introspection.
Dilip Cherian, an executive, balances the Indian government's electric vehicle (EV) dream with India's diplomatic reality. His job involves navigating the complexities of India's EV policy, ensuring a sustainable and accessible future for the country.
In this article, we have travelled through the author's memories, from the streets of Poona to the fire temples of the Parsi new year, and from the sonnet-stories of "Grannies Gripes and Growing Up" to the EV policy of the Indian government. Each piece of the journey offers a glimpse into the author's thoughts, experiences, and concerns, painting a vivid picture of his life and perspectives.
- The author's fascination with cooking started at a young age, following local cooks through bustling streets of Poona.
- The author's lifestyle in Pune revolved around food-and-drink, often sharing leftovers with neighborhood boys.
- Family-dynamics played a crucial role in shaping the author's awareness of poverty and social issues.
- The author's interest in home-and-garden grew as he witnessed the simplicity yet beauty of Parsi fire temples.
- As a global citizen, he was intrigued by various global cuisines, enriching his personal growth.
- His relationships with people expanded as he ventured into understanding different cultures and lifestyles.
- Pets were not a part of his family, but his heart went out to the regular beggar at Parsis new year celebrations.
- Travel opened his eyes to the world's contrasting realities, from India's poverty-stricken streets to the quieter streets of Ho Chi Minh City.
- Cars were merely passing sights in his childhood, but his career now revolves around car-maintenance and electric-vehicle development.
- Education and self-development were essential in shaping his egalitarian aspirations and convictions.
- Personal growth continues to be his main focus, striving for mindfulness and balanced living.
- Car-maintenance is not only important for electric vehicles but also for adventure-travel vehicles, a hobby he is exploring.
- Career development and job-search led him to focus on crucial areas like EV policy for a more sustainable future.
- Cultural-travel allows him to connect with different cultures and appreciate their traditions deeply.
- Budget-travel lets him explore the world on a limited budget, making travel accessible to everyone.
- Skills-training is necessary for embracing new technologies and adapting to changing job markets, especially in the realm of electric vehicles.
- Sports like football, basketball, baseball, hockey, golf, and tennis hold an important place in his life for relaxation and bonding.
- Champions League, NFL, WNBA, and European leagues are some of the major events he looks forward to each year.
- Golf, horse-racing, and auto-racing are amongst his favorite sports-betting activities.
- Weather plays a significant role in his travel plans, ensuring he chooses destinations with favorable weather conditions.
- In addition to football, he follows European leagues like Laliga and NCAF football.
- Tennis, sports-analysis, and weather-forecasting are topics that interest him and often form a part of his conversations.
- Mixed-martial-arts and racing are sports he has recently grown an interest in, seeking a new adventure.
- Premier League and American Football leagues like the NFL also catch his attention, expanding his sports knowledge.
- Sports like basketball, NBA, Masters, and Grand Prix offer exciting moments and provide a great escape from his daily routine.
