Volume 28 n Issue 4 n September-October 2014
POMP & SPLENDOUR OF DURGA PUJA
SPACE PSLV-C23 LAUNCH
HERITAGE OLD FORT EXCAVATION
CONVERSATION SAINA NEHWAL
UPCOMING EVENTS ACROSS INDIA LADAKH FESTIVAL The festival propagates the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh. Sponsored by the Department of Tourism, Jammu & Kashmir, it gives tourists an opportunity to witness folk dances and songs from Ladakh. WHEN: September 20-26 WHERE: Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir
RAMLILA
MYSORE DASARA
WHEN: September 25 to October 21 WHERE: Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra, New Delhi
WHEN: August 7-15 WHERE: Mysore, Karnataka
Watch Ramlila, the story of how Lord Rama, prince of Ayodhya, defeated Ravana, evil king of Lanka, and rescued his kidnapped wife, Sita. It’s enacted as a tradition to celebrate the victory of good over evil.
The Mysore Dasara is a magnificent celebration during the festival of Navratri. The royal family performs a special puja (worship) of the Mother Goddess at the famous Chamundeshwari Temple in Mysore.
ONAM
Onam, biggest harvest festival in Kerala, marks the homecoming of legendary king Mahabali. The celebration lasts 10 days and depicts the state’s culture. It includes snake boat races and exotic Kaikottikali dance. WHEN: September 7 WHERE: All over Kerala
JAIPUR SHOPPING FESTIVAL
RENEWABLE ENERGY EXPO
WHEN: September 25 to October 23 WHERE: Jaipur, Rajasthan
WHEN: September 3-5 WHERE: Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh
More than 7,000 retailers participate in the Jaipur Shopping Festival. Plays, folk dance and singing, photography competition, fashion shows and fireworks are part of the festivities.
The 8th Renewable Energy India exhibition will showcase innovative technological solutions for this sector. It will have over 500 exhibitors, 12,000 trade visitors and 1,000 delegates from across the globe.
Foreword Technological advancements have always been India’s forte. The launch of PSLV-C23, which put five overseas satellites in orbit, stands testimony to this fact. Read more on the feat in this issue. We highlight the achievements of centres for excellence in Information Technology under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation programme (ITEC). These projects, besides providing hardware and training facilities to other nations, make these centres self-sustainable, a clear showcase of India’s prowess in the field of Information Technology. Also read about the sixth BRICS summit in Brazil that has ushered in new developments including the introduction of New Development Bank. This issue focusses on one of India’s progressive states, Arunachal Pradesh, which recently got its first railway line and is aiming to achieve self-sufficiency in foodgrain production. Excavations at Old Fort in New Delhi have unveiled some thought-provoking finds including the possible existence of a Mahabharata (ancient Indian epic) site in the vicinity. On Mahatma Gandhi’s 145th birth anniversary on October 2, we trace his illustrious life. We look at Phoolwalon Ki Sair, a one-of-its kind procession of flower sellers, that transcends barriers of religion, class and creed. Also, India’s Jaipur Foot technology is now improving lives of limb amputees from the lower income strata in Colombia through the Mahavir Kmina Limb Centre. On cultural front, Indian artist Sanjay Bhattacharya gets nostalgic about Durga Puja, artistically and in words. Plus there are features on the richness of Indian woman sculptures and the comeback of herbal wear in a modern avatar. India’s rich wildlife is showcased in our Travel special while thrilling adventure sports options across India form part of the Snapshots section. We review the Ministry of External Affairs’ latest initiative, an encyclopedia titled India-China Cultural Contacts which provides an in-depth look at the history of India-China relations. Ambassador BS Prakash provides an overview of India’s diversity with special focus on the literary aspects.
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Volume 28 n Issue 4 n September-October 2014
Editor: Syed Akbaruddin Assistant Editor: Nikhilesh Dixit Ministry of External Affairs Room No. 152, ‘A’ Wing, Shastri Bhavan, New Delhi - 110001 Tel.: +91.11.23388949, 23381719 Fax.: +91.11.23384663 Web: www.indiaperspectives.in For feedback/ inquiries: osdpd2@mea.gov.in MaXposure Media Group India Pvt Ltd Publisher & COO: Vikas Johari CEO & Managing Director: Prakash Johari Executive Editor: Saurabh Tankha Head Office MaXposure Media Group India Pvt Ltd Unit No. F2B, Second Floor, MIRA Corporate Suites, Plot No. 1&2, Ishwar Nagar, Mathura Road, New Delhi - 110 065 Tel: +91.11.43011111, Fax: +91.11.43011199 CIN No: U22229DL2006PTC152087 For feedback/ inquiries: indiaperspectives@maxposure.in
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India Perspectives is published in Arabic, Bahasa Indonesia, English, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Pashto, Persian, Portuguese, Russian, Sinhala, Spanish and Tamil. India Perspectives is printed and published by Syed Akbaruddin, Joint Secretary (XP) and Official Spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), New Delhi, Room No. 152, ‘A’ Wing, Shastri Bhavan, New Delhi - 110001 and published at MaXposure Media Group India Pvt. Ltd. (MMGIPL), Unit No. F2B, Second Floor, MIRA Corporate Suites, Plot No. 1&2, Ishwar Nagar, Mathura Road, New Delhi - 110065, India. India Perspectives is published six times a year. All rights reserved. The writing, artwork and/or photography contained herein may be used or reproduced with an acknowledgement to ‘India Perspectives’. MEA and MMGIPL does not assume responsibility for loss or damage of unsolicited products, manuscripts, photographs, artwork, transparencies or other materials. The views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the MEA or MMGIPL. Follow us on: http://www.facebook.com/IndianDiplomacy http://www.twitter.com/IndianDiplomacy http://www.youtube.com/Indiandiplomacy
For a copy of India Perspectives, contact the nearest Indian diplomatic mission.
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CONTENTS
10 54
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CULTURE
TRAVEL
Five days of festivities....................................06
Sanctuaries of wild wonders......................... 36
CULTURE
SUCCESS
The unfathomable Indian woman................................................. 10 CULTURE
Floral bonds of unity and peace......................14
Top of the world.............................................46 TRIBUTE
Non-violent strides towards freedom............................................. 52 PROGRESS
PARTNERSHIP
BRICS: Banking on a new world order............ 17
Coming into the limelight............................. 54 SNAPSHOTS
PARTNERSHIP
India’s IT expertise empowers the world.......................................20 INNOVATION
A powerful revolution.................................... 25 INNOVATION
Back to the roots............................................ 28 REVIEW
The Parsi story..................................................31
On an adventure high.................................... 58 HERITAGE
Treasure trove of hidden glory......................68 HERITAGE
How many diversities?................................... 72 CUISINE
An Indian love affair for life........................... 77 CUISINE
Enlivening a legacy......................................... 82 CONVERSATION
REVIEW
Mapping the shared cultural space............. 32 S EP T EM B ER- O CT O BE R
‘I have no worries at present’........................ 88 2 0 1 4
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Five days of
festivities
The deafening sound of drums, devotional songs, overwhelming celebrations... Life takes a different turn for the Bengali community in India during Durga Puja celebrations text | Sanjay Bhattacharya
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y first memories of Durga Puja (annual Hindu festival celebrating Goddess Durga) are intertwined with the puja (worship) at Mython’s Area 3 in Kolkata, West Bengal. I must have been three or four years old. On the day of the Durga idol immersion, I was packed into a truck with other kids as we headed towards the sea. However, I was not old enough to enjoy the festivities. After spending a few days in Kolkata, we travelled to Durgapur, 160 km away. A puja celebration was organised in the club with a pandal (temporary fabricated structure) constructed over a huge platform and handpainted with alpana (colourful motif). We waited at the pandal all day long, hoping for some prasad (sweet offerings). The excitement of wearing new clothes was no less!
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The maintenance staff organised a jaatra (play) which saw the plumber donning the role of the king, the carpenter playing the minister and after shaving his moustache, the electrician becoming the queen. We returned to Kolkata. The pujas there were much more vibrant. We competed among ourselves as to who could visit more pandals, dragging along weary, callused feet. The Durga idol has hypnotising powers... the more I saw, the more I wanted to see. Every pandal had its distinct decoration, illuminated by fairy lights and richly designed entry gates. The hypnotising third eye of Durga, weapons in her 10 hands, standing on the defeated asura (demon), guarded by a powerful lion on one hand, surrounded by her children – Lakshmi, Kartik, Saraswati and Ganesha – was mesmerising. The deafening sound of drums was accompanied by Dunuchi naach (dance of the devotees). Five days of Durga Puja have five different celebrations. Baul performances, Rabindra Sangeet and devotional songs are heard throughout the city. Countless people of every age, dressed in their best, set out to see Maa Durga. During childhood, radio was our only entertainment source. I used to wake up early to listen to the Mahalaya: Ya Devi sarva bhuteshu shakti rupena samsthita. It was spellbinding. When the days of the puja – shashthi, saptami, ashtami, navmi and dashmi, were over, I grew sad, more because school examinations were right after Puja. What I could never get over was the beating of drums and fragrance of incense and prasad. Closing my eyes, I could see my mother
KNOW MORE l The oldest Durga Puja in Kolkata was in 1610.
l The idol is traditionally decorated with white core of ‘shola’ reed, which grows in marshlands.
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and aunts covered in sindoor (vermillion). By the time I joined art college, the enthusiasm of Puja had died down. I set out to sketch during that period and did not think about buying new clothes or shoes. The passion for sketching overpowered the eagerness to be part of Puja. I left Kolkata and life began anew in New Delhi. Here, in the predominantly Bengali colony of Chittaranjan Park, Puja
is a big celebration. I go to a pandal near my house – it is not very crowded so it feels good to be there. Some of the grandly adorned puja pandals in New Delhi can easily compete with those in Kolkata. The whistle of the balloon-seller, the delectable smell of aloo chop (Bengali-style potato fritters) and kids in their new clothes remind me of my childhood. Now I know the pleasures of smaller things in life. The writer is a well-known Indian artist
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The unfathomable
Indian woman
We explore hues of womanhood in Indian sculptures displayed at an exhibition in National Museum, New Delhi text & photographs | Kumud Mohan
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elebrated and worshipped as well as feared and revered: the woman portrayed in Indian sculptures is gentle and subtle. Her outward manifestations are many. But to grasp her inherent mystery, you must turn carefully through the pages of history and mythology. Technically, ancient Indian texts on sculptural craft outlined strict specifications on the proportions of the various parts of the body. Additionally, the attributes of a perfect woman as laid down in literary texts – mohini (captivating), kamakshi (seductive), meenakshi (eyes like a fish) and chandramukhi (face like the moon) – had to be incorporated. Clothes, jewellery, hairstyle, facial expression and the true-to-life artistic posture, all had to be attended to the minutest detail. Sculptures could be of terracotta, wood, stone or metal. Terracotta sculptures were fashioned from potters’ clay and fired in kiln along with kids’ toys and cooking and storage vessels including ingenious surahi and ghara to store water.
Among wooden sculptures, the most famous ones are of Lord Krishna and his siblings, Balaram and Subhadra, at Jagannath Temple, Puri in the state of Odisha. These neem wood sculptures are ritualistically replaced every 12 to 19 years. Stone sculptures and ancient specimen can be found in perfect condition in all parts of the country – in cave shelters like Ajanta and Ellora (Maharashtra) and rock carvings in Mamallapuram (Tamil Nadu) as well as in temples like Baijnath in Himachal Pradesh, Dilwara Temples in Rajasthan, Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, Konark in Odisha and Halebid in Karnataka. Metallic sculptures were lighter and sturdier. Exquisite figurines in bronze were cast by cire perdue or lost wax method described as Madhucchista Vidhana in Shilpashastra, a treatise on craftsmanship. Metallurgy was known in India as far back as 6000 BCE. Many of the stone and bronze figurines are in tribhanga (thrice deflected) posture, enhancing the graceful curves of the female body.
Lajjagauri Motherhood has been immortalised in Indian sculptures. This 6th century sandstone work portrays the childbirth posture of this goddess who is traditionally associated with abundance and fertility. She is worshipped in India’s Deccan region.
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Uma-Maheshwar
An 8th century family sandstone sculpture of Shiva-Parvati and their children, Ganesha and Kartikeya, discovered in Mandsaur in Madhya Pradesh.
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Saraswati
Ardhnarishwar
A personification of Saraswati, the only river to be deified in Vedic hymns, this 12th century marble idol is from Pallu, Rajasthan. This goddess of knowledge, speech, language, sciences and arts is credited with having invented Sanskrit or devabhasha (language of the Gods), reputed to be the first known language, as well as the Devnagri script.
The ultimate union of Shiva, the Lord of the universe, with his consort, Parvati. Parvati (Shakti or Uma) is the embodiment of grace and beauty, selfsacrifice and love. She is believed to be the source of power (shakti) in the universe.
Patralekha A woman writing a letter in this 10th-11th century sandstone sculpture from Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, in the heart of India, testifies the fact that education was important in Indian society even 1,000 years ago.
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Veerasati Historically, when a war-torn fortress in Rajasthan was about to fall to invading armies, the women jumped into a community fire to save their honour. Called Sati, it was prevalent in northern India till the 19th century when it was abolished. Here we find a 13th century black basalt sculpture of a Veerasati (martyr) decapitating herself, from Andhra Pradesh in southern India.
Benign mother goddesses These represent the all-giving and all-forgiving nature of Mother Earth and were found in large numbers in ancient civilisations like Mathura, Kaushambi and Patliputra. This 2nd century BCE terracotta mother goddess, Mathura, with profuse ornamentation, symbolises the feminine ideal of that era.
Hariti A female thief, Hariti was a cannibalistic kidnapper who later became caretaker and protector of children under the influence of Buddhism. This 4th century limestone idol of Hariti from Andhra Pradesh was worshipped as a goddess.
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Floral bonds of
unity and peace
The annual festival of Phoolwalon Ki Sair in New Delhi has strengthened inter-religious connect and the spirit of sharing
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Clockwise from above: Flower fan offered at the Yogamaya Temple; participants carrying the flower sheet; procession starts at Old Delhi, India
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ust when the mercury starts to dip, the National Capital of Delhi witnesses a colourful and fragrant procession, Phoolwalon Ki Sair (procession of florists) that winds its way to all hearts. Celebrated by people of all religions in Mehrauli near the historic Qutub Minar, the procession kick-starts from Chandni Chowk in the Walled City or Old Delhi to Yogmaya Temple through Mehrauli Bazaar (market) to place a chaadar (sheet) made of flowers at the dargah (tomb) and shrine of renowned Sufi mystic, saint and scholar, Qutubuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki. History has it that Kaki had a major influence on Sufism in India. He developed the ideas of universal brotherhood and charity. In fact, he forms an important part of the Sufi movement which attracted many people to Islam in India during the 13th and 14th centuries. The shrine of Qutubuddin Bakhtiyar Kaki has been the venue of the annual Phoolwalon Ki Sair which has now become an important inter-faith festival of Delhi. The festival has its origin in 1812 when
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(Top & bottom left) Qawwalis and cultural programmes form part of the festivities (right) The procession reaches the dargah
Queen Mumtaz Mahal, wife of Mughal emperor the 70s when the then Prime Minister Indira Akbar Shah II, made a vow to offer a chaadar Gandhi requested all Indian states to participate (sheet) at Kaki’s dargah and flower in the festival and promote pankha (fan) at Yogmaya Temple in national integration. Britishers stopped Mehrauli if her son, Mirza Jehangir, Today, the entire atmosphere the celebration who was exiled to Allahabad by the bears a festive look at the dargah. in 1942. It was then British resident of Red Fort, Sir Qawwalis, quirky cultural revived in 1961 Archibald Seton, returned safely. And programmes and dances are by Jawaharlal as the legend goes, he did and thus performed on the streets with Nehru, the then the tradition started. fire dancers adding a mystic However, Britishers stopped touch. What once began as an Prime Minister, the celebration in 1942. It was obeisance by a Muslim woman in to bridge the gap revived in 1961 by the then Prime gratitude at the shrine of a Muslim between Hindus Minister of India, Jawaharlal saint has become an occasion of and Muslims Nehru, to bridge the gap between pilgrimage and celebration over the Hindus and Muslims. The threelast few centuries, in the process day festival, also known as Sair-e-Gulafroshan, transcending barriers of community, creed and Phoolwalon Ki Sair, was taken a step ahead in class. This year, the Sair starts from October 10.
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PARTNERSHIP
BRICS: Banking on a
new world order
The sixth BRICS summit at Fortaleza in Brazil saw several path-breaking decisions including launch of a BRICS-driven New Development Bank to finance emerging economies text | Manish Chand
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n Fortaleza, the intense sun would blur details, making the vision fuzzy. But defying sceptics, leaders of the five emerging BRICS economies not only got the details right, they got the big bright picture in place as they launched a BRICS-driven New Development Bank (NDB) on July 15.
Global finance remapped
Marking a major defining step in remapping the West-dictated global financial architecture, the NDB launched at the sixth BRICS summit seeks to provide an alternative source of infrastructure finance to emerging economies and the larger developing world. Finally, the developing world has
Left to right: Mr Vladimir Putin, President of Russia; Prime Minister of India Mr Narendra Modi; Ms Dilma Rousseff, President of Brazil; Mr Xi Jinping, President of China and Mr Jacob Zuma, President of South Africa at the BRICS summit S EPT EM B ER- O CT O BE R
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Prime Minister of India Mr Narendra Modi with Mr Vladimir Putin, President of Russia
a Development Bank of its own, sans asymmetries shall be of US$ 50 billion, equally shared among of the post-war Bretton Woods institutions. founding members. Reflecting a picture of The negotiations had gone down the wire, with solidarity, in the end, each country got something the leaders finally agreeing on the architecture by way of leadership of the Bank in the spirit of of NDB based on the overarching give-and-take. While China, the principle of equity. The sixth summit largest economy in the grouping with An Indian will also saw the signing of the treaty over three trillion in foreign exchange be the first CEO for the establishment of the BRICS reserves, will host the Bank in of the New Contingent Reserve Arrangement Shanghai, the first chair of the Board (CRA), with an initial size of US$ 100 of Directors shall be from Brazil and Development billion, which will act as a financial the first president of the board will be Bank, which will safety valve in case of liquidity crunch. from Russia. South Africa will host have an initial With the crystallisation of these two NDB’s Africa Regional Center. authorised signature initiatives, the BRICS club of For New Delhi, the creation of the capital of emerging powers has proved beyond bank has a special resonance as the US$ 100 billion doubt that BRICS is not a glorified idea germinated and was proposed talk shop, but a powerful instrument at the New Delhi summit in 2012. for remapping the world order. In a speech at the plenary session of the BRICS summit, Indian Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi Indian first CEO of NDB encapsulated the essence of the BRICS Bank. “The An Indian will be the first CEO of the New vision of a New Development Bank, at the Delhi Development Bank, which will have Summit two years ago, has been translated an initial authorised capital of US$ 100 into a reality. It will benefit BRICS billion. The initial subscribed capital nations and support other developing
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nations. And it will be rooted in our own experiences as developing countries.”
Strategic canvas
The sixth BRICS summit also saw a deepening of the strategic dimension of the intra-BRICS relationship and a convergence of views on a range of global and regional issues, spanning a vast region from Afghanistan to Africa, including maritime piracy, terrorism and cyber security. BRICS’s importance lies in advocating diplomacy-based inclusive solutions and providing a counterpoint to the West-dominated sanction-based punitive approach to addressing regional crises, and it was reflected in the collective position on festering hotspots including Iran, Iraq, the Gaza violence, Syria, the Middle East peace process and Afghanistan.
Business of BRICS
Amid continuing global economic uncertainty and weak growth, this summit saw the leaders backing proposals for a “BRICS Economic Cooperation Strategy” and a “Framework of BRICS Closer Economic Partnership” which maps out concrete steps to promote intra-BRICS economic, trade and investment cooperation. The BRICS Business Council, comprising leading CEOs of the five countries, pitched for easing of business visas and procedural hurdles to scale up economic cooperation among BRICS countries.
Make BRICS people-centric
Another important takeaway for India was receptivity of other BRICS leaders to Mr Modi’s proposals and ideas to make the grouping more people-centric and “a platform of impact.” The real action in future will be in launching people-centric initiatives in the areas of education and health like setting up a BRICS Young Scientists’ Forum, BRICS language schools and BRICS University.
Six, and raring to go
At six, the BRICS is still a nascent multilateral grouping itching to explore new horizons. The NDB is an emblem of the seismic shift of power from the west to the rest and reflects a collective resolve by the BRICS leaders to forge genuine institutions of the developing world and to shape a more inclusive and democratic world order. If these initiatives are combined with deepening people-topeople linkages and forging education and innovationdriven partnership, the BRICS will able to create an enduring building that will be a true home for surging aspirations of the developing world.
India & Latin America: It’s time to tango Toasting the ongoing resurgence of Latin America, the BRICS held its first outreach meeting with leaders of several South American countries including Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela, Ecuador, Colombia, Argentina, Peru, Uruguay, Paraguay, Guyana and Suriname, in Brasilia on July 16. Invoking poets Rabindranath Tagore and Pablo Neruda, Indian Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi reached out to South American leaders and underlined New Delhi’s commitment to deepen India’s engagement with this emerging growth pole of the world that boasts a combined GDP of nearly five trillion dollars and is home to a large Indian diaspora. He offered an exhilarating brew of trade, IT, tele-medicine and capacity building to South America which he called “this great continent; of beauty, opportunities and warm people.” Mr Modi also separately met the leaders of Guyana, Suriname and Peru for bilateral talks. Building knowledge-driven partnership is the way to go. The Prime Minister assured South American leaders that India will establish Centres of Excellence in Information Technology in their countries. He also offered India’s expertise in tele-medicine, tele-education, e-governance and application of space capabilities for weather forecasting, resource mapping and disaster management.
The writer is Editor-in-Chief of India Writes Network, www.indiawrites.org
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India’s IT expertise
empowers the world
Sharing knowledge and skills with fellow developing countries continues to be the objective of the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme. Over half-a-dozen premier IT-related institutes are successfully providing training to aspirants text | Sarita Brara
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If you have knowledge, let others light their candles in it. Margaret Fuller
at US$ 105 billion in 2013-14. Technologies such as Social Media, Mobility, Analytics and Cloud (SMAC), artificial intelligence and embedded systems have become the life-force of nformation Technology the industry. (IT) has emerged as one IT services export segment, of the most dynamic excluding BPO, engineering, R&D The overall sectors in India’s economic and software products, is expected to growth of IT development. Today, the be the fastest growing, with year-onindustry in industry has not only fuelled year growth of over 14 per cent. India, termed India’s economic growth, it India continues to maintain its as ‘soft power’, has transformed her image leadership position in global sourcing has been internationally. The overall arena, accounting for almost 55 phenomenal over growth of IT industry, per cent of its market size in 2013. last five years India’s “soft power”, has been Major developed markets today phenomenal over the last five are sourcing IT/ ITES from India years, registering an increase of to improve their competitive edge. around 10.3 per cent. The Indian Information Developing countries are looking towards Technology, IT and Information Enabled India as a source for capacity building and skill Services, ITES industry revenue is estimated development in IT sector.
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Sharing knowledge and skills with fellow decade plus. Over half-a-dozen premier ITdeveloping countries continues to be one of related institutes like National Institute of the objectives of ITEC programme Information Technology (NIIT), launched by India in 1964. CMC, Aptech Limited and Centre The Indian Perceived as a programme about for Development of Advanced Government cooperation and partnership Computing (CDAC) provide bears the entire for mutual benefit, ITEC is training to the growing number expenditure for response-oriented. India offers of aspirants from developing ITEC training training to citizens of developing countries. Courses have been countries to equip them with devised to enable participants to get programmes required professional skills and trained in basic IT, Internet skills, including airfare, prepare them for an increasingly web development and designing, tuition fee... competitive world. web and android applications, It is in this context that IT has graphic designing, basic and become an important component of ITEC advanced course in computer networks, and its sister programme SCAAP for the past business communication including e-commerce,
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training programme in information and professionally. He’s working in Singapore network security, specialised programme at the Papua New Guinea High Commission on e-governance application development, as Third Secretary. Tekalign Melese from data communication and IP technologies, Ethiopia said the knowledge he gained was computer hardware and networking, cloud beyond expectation. Khairullah Hisyam computing and application of IT in various Abdul Razak from Indonesia, who undertook other fields including reducing cyber crime English & IT skills course, feels he utilised his by understanding security concepts and scholarship to do a masters programme because terminology and protection for operating of his India training. “On my return after systems like Linux and Windows. Proficiency the ITEC programme, I directly applied for a in English is also part of many scholarship in Australia. Now I am of these courses. Most courses doing Masters of Education and These projects, range from four to 12 weeks and Psychology at Flinders University, besides providing the Indian Government bears Australia. Big or small – who hardware the entire expenditure including knows? But I am sure there is a and training airfare, tuition fee, living contribution of my participation facilities to other allowance, medical expenses and because of which I could get book grants. It takes care not to this scholarship for a master’s countries, make put undue financial burden on programme,” he said. training centres partner countries. “The Indian Government has self-sustainable Thousands of men and women done a good deed by investing in from developing nations have got ITEC as it not only strengthens the opportunity to choose from nearly 250 capabilities of people from world over but courses in their preference area, including IT. capabilities of people from developing countries The courses have helped in their careers apart in particular,” added Comlan Rodrigue from enriching knowledge and experience. Aziakou from Benin. Zivanai Maoneke from Zimbabwe, who did One important development in India’s web design and development course, wrote assistance to other developing countries is back to applaud ITEC, “I developed a database the setting up of Development Partnership for NGOs who are working in our provinces Administration (DPA). DPA has been mandated which earned me widespread recognition.” with effective and timely implementation of Freda Felihau from Papua New Guinea had projects, including the establishment of centres done English and IT skills course. He said for excellence in IT. These projects, besides the ITEC programme helped him do well providing hardware and training facilities
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PARTNERSHIP
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to other countries, make the centres selfProposals for establishment of IT centres sustainable within just two years, showcasing in about 10 countries, mostly in the African India’s prowess in the IT field. In addition to continent, are in the pipeline. Some of these basic IT training, pioneer organisations in are expected to be launched soon. To sustain the field of advanced IT have been providing these projects on a long-term basis, exchange advanced hardware and software training to of experts in IT sector between India and various countries. other beneficiary countries through mutual Training in advanced technologies visits and interaction through like High Performance Computing latest IT techniques like video Proposals for (HPC) are also being imparted. Super conferencing is the vision being computer PARAM, the indigenous actively perceived. establishment advanced high performance In addition to capacity building of IT centres computer developed by India, has in various spheres of economic in about 10 been installed in development, India is seeking countries, mostly Armenia, Tanzania to empower people of the in the African and other countries. developing world through its continent, will be Countries that soft power. As former Foreign launched soon have benefitted Secretary Shyam Saran said from Indian IT in his address at Cambridge, skills also include Harvard University earlier this Belarus, Russia, Tajikistan and year, “The objective of our assistance is to Uzbekistan among others in raise economic and human capacity in a the CIS region, Peru, Ecuador partner country so that its ability to generate in Latin American region and growth is enhanced.” It is this spirit of Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam development cooperation which has earned among CLMV countries. widespread appreciation.
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Grenada
INNOVATION
A powerful
revolution India’s Jaipur Foot has brought new hopes for nationals in Colombia text | Vandana Vasudevan
People are able to resume near-normal lives with these lower-limb prostheses S EPT EM B ER- O CT O BE R
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echnology does not have any boundaries. in 2007, is now Mahavir Kmina Artificial Limb If private entities and individuals Center. They manufacture and fit free of cost lower simulate what Bhagwan Mahaveer limb prostheses for amputees. It has helped several Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS, amputees regain mobility, giving them a chance to Jaipur) and Mahavir Kmina Artificial live near-normal lives. Limb Center in Medellin (Colombia) Their efforts got noted by BMVSS, have done, the world would be a India in 2007 which offered transfer of So far, Mahavir better place. technical know-how of manufacturing Kmina has BMVSS, famous for the Jaipur Foot, and fitting the prostheses. The Jaipur helped over has been fitting free of charge lower Foot allows an amputee to adapt and 2,000 nationals limb prostheses to people from the recover faster than its contemporaries. with lower limb low income strata in India, since 1975. Mahavir Kmina’s member of the prostheses in The organisation has developed the board of directors, Francisco various parts of Jaipur Foot to be a more exoskeleton Moncaleano, says, “When it comes South America (external skeleton) and the most to value for money and cost-benefit, advanced prostheses in the world. there is no prostheses superior to Cognisant with developments in BMVSS’ Jaipur Foot. The organisation the other side of the world, a group of private was kind to transfer all this technology under the firms in Colombia came together to give back condition that the social work to be performed by prosperity to society. This quiet revolution in Mahavir Kmina in Colombia would be as in India, the Medellin province in Colombia, established free of charge.”
Technical know-how of manufacturing and fitting has been transferred to Mahavir Kmina from BMVSS, India INDIA PERSPECTIVES
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BMVSS prostheses’ fitting method is based on body alignment
BMVSS has over 30 years of expertise perfected by Mahavir Kmina and the full system in research and development of the Jaipur was then provided to BMVSS,” says Moncaleano. Foot. Each year, the organisation installs The performance of the organisation’s prostheses nearly 16,000 prostheses that aid walking, equipped with the Jaipur Foot is recognised by the running, climbing, dancing and Royal Liverpool University Hospital, riding a bike. Made of highly England. It has come up with aboveengineered plastic, it is resistant knee prostheses accompanied by a The prostheses to shock, weather, moisture and knee device, developed by Stanford not only aids allows dorsiflexion to walk on University, USA. walking but uneven surfaces. “BMVSS has perfected the also running, According to estimates, the Stanford knee, one of the 50 climbing trees total number of lower limb greatest inventions as per and dancing amputees in Colombia is 20,000. Time magazine, and is in Mahavir Kmina has helped over the process of standardising 2,000 nationals with lower limb prostheses in production of the foot which will allow Colombia as well as Ecuador, Chile, Trinidad mass production and hopefully replace and Tobago and Panama. Sach foot (Solid Ankle Cushion Heel).” “BMVSS initially trained two Colombian BMVSS’s concerted efforts were recognised technicians in Jaipur. Because of further advances, by the El Colombiano newspaper and also they have gone back for re-training. BMVSS awarded the prestigious El Colombiano prostheses’ fitting method is based on body Ejemplar award. Mahavir Kmina continues on alignment. Hence, the fitting process takes no its mission to identify the needy and help bring longer than 36 hours. This alignment system was their lives back on track.
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Back to
the roots
Ancient Indian fabrics are now glamourising “new” India with herbal wear becoming the latest trend and traditional motifs increasingly adorning modern ensembles text | Neharika Mathur Sinha
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ried and tested for centuries, the wisdom of ancient India holds true today as well. One important area in which our forefathers excelled was Ayurveda, the 5,000-yearold medical practice, and its beneficial use in textiles. Herbal dyes were used on specially-woven fabrics with medicinal properties to provide healing powers to wearers. So the clothes would keep you cool in summer, prevent allergies and cure maladies like hypertension, heart ailments, asthma, arthritis and skin infections. After remaining on the back-burner for centuries, this tradition has been revived with leading designers and responsible organisations creating ensembles that promise health benefits. Ayurvastra from Kerala dyes textiles using medicinal herbs that claim to cure diabetes and skin cancer. The concept was revived by the Weavers Society through a project submitted to the Kerala government. Since 1992, they have been making these “eco-fabrics” – free from synthetic chemicals and biodegradable. They have also developed clothes for newborns which improve immunity. Recently, the Spices Board of India launched an eco-friendly spice-based fabric which has healing properties. Its dyes contain 40 to 60 specially blended medicinal herbs, plants, flowers, roots
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“Eco fabrics” are available in soothing shades and help your skin breathe
and bark. Ahmedabad-based Aura Herbal Wear manufactures organic cloth (made from cotton grown without chemicalbased pesticides) and treats it with colour extracted from herbs via ecofriendly processes to make products with “international sensibilities in quality and design,” says founder-director Sonal Baid. Leading Indian fashion designer Jattin Kochchar has come up with Tatha Vastram, a collection of organic cotton garments, with Divita Kanoria, chief wellness officer, The Vedic Collection. “The healing value of herbal clothing and its usage is based on the principle of touch. When it comes in contact with the body, it loses toxins and metabolism gets enhanced,” explains Divita. There’s another side to this story – how traditional motifs and patterns are re-gaining popularity and are being used to create modern ensembles. So skirts and trousers too are being made using hand-woven fabrics. Loom Mool, a brand promoted by Delhi-based NGO SEWA Bharat, uses Indian arts and
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crafts in a contemporary manner to create women wear, menswear, kids’ wear and home accessories. Every product utilises artisans organised by SEWA, aiming to maintain regular work for them, sustaining their livelihood. New Delhi-based clothing store Loom Mool orders Recently, the fabrics – silk, cotton or linen – made on handloom by artisans in Bhagalpur Spices Board of (Bihar) as well as beautiful tye-and-dye India launched from artisans in Jodhpur (Rajasthan). “We a spice-based want our products to appeal to the global fabric which citizen who appreciates contemporary is eco-friendly style and clothing and make the wearer and has healing feel good,” says Meera Saxena, design properties. It head, Loom Mool. uses medicinal Recently, leading Indian designer herbs and plants Rina Dhaka interspersed Maharashtra’s Himroo fabric in her designs to lend them a richer look. Woven with cotton and silk, Himroo originated from the ancient style of weaving known as Jamawar in Kashmir. Clearly, India’s traditions are evergreen and continue to inspire the nation’s creative process. Traditional patterns such as batik are used on modern T-shirts and trousers
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REVIEW
The Parsi
story
In half-an-hour, the film Qissa-e-Parsi (The Parsi Story), a Public Diplomacy initiative of the Ministry of External Affairs, unfolds everything about the Parsi community and its history text | Sumantha Rathore
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issa-e-Parsi (The Parsi Story), a film produced by Public Service Broadcasting Trust, is a 30-minute stunner. The Public Diplomacy initiative of the Ministry of External Affairs doesn’t really have a storyline but it has a heart that touches you in more than one way. Simplistically put, this film is about Parsi community, their history, Zoroastrian faith, reservations, entrepreneurship, sense of humour and everything else that helps them survive, sustain and excel. As the film progresses from one frame to another, the makers of this film, Divya Cowasji and Shilpi Gulati, take you on a detailed journey of why safeguarding their sense of humour is as important to Parsis as it is to keep their dwindling population on a growth scale. The film focusses on their association with
India, particularly Mumbai, which has been put together by the Parsis in bricks and in essence. It tells you about the agreement of Parsis to capitalism albeit with a sense of responsibility, why they love their food, why the community is shrinking in numbers yet growing in stature and why a Parsi will never accept anything that’s sub-standard... not even a torn `10 currency note. And the best part is that everything that is vouched for by the makers is testified by the people of the community. So, there is actor Bomie E Dotiwala, the man who played the carrom-playing Parsi uncle in famous Hindi movie Munnabhai MBBS, cracking a joke about the community. Then there is the owner of Britannia Restaurant Boman Kohinoor who tells you about his sweet association with Queen Elizabeth. A watch-worthy film.
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REVIEW
Mapping the shared
cultural space
The ancient civilisations of India and China share a special bond through exchanges of culture, literature and people-to-people contacts. It has been aptly enumerated in the form of Encyclopedia of India-China Cultural Contacts text | Sabaree Mitra
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n the last decade, there has been a significant momentum in the IndiaChina relations with both sides attaching increasing importance to potential for cooperation in a wide range of issues. In this context, many scholars have repeatedly pointed out that culture has the ability to go beyond the restraining framework of state-state relation and turn it into a more broad-based people-people relation. In spite of that, till recently, culture had remained one of the last priorities of India-China relations, at least for policymakers. However, given the new possibilities emerging in bilateral and multilateral cooperation, a re-evaluation of policy was made. This was a welcome and appropriate development that the role of facilitator, so far been assigned only to trade and economy, has now been rightfully enlarged to include culture. Because going by definition, from ancient period India-China relation has had civilisational framework at its foundation. In classical understanding, civilisational interaction has two important components, cultural exchange and trade ties that have frequently influenced each other, often becoming a shared experience.
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(Above) Buddhist exchanges reflected in architecture (below) The Encyclopedia’s symbol
Background and rationale
Culture was officially assigned an important status by proclaiming it as one of the strategies of Strategic Cooperative Partnership between India and China. In the joint statement issued by Premier Wen Jiabao and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on April 11, 2005, it was said, “Both sides expressed satisfaction with strengthened exchanges in the area of culture and affirmed the mutual understanding and cultural exchanges would facilitate development of cooperation in other areas.” The joint declaration, issued on November 21, 2006, during the state visit of the President of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Hu Jintao, to India, said, “In order to promote sustainable socio-economic development of India and China, to fully realise substantial potential for their cooperation in a wide range of areas, to upgrade India-China relations to a qualitatively new level and to substantiate and reinforce strategic and cooperative partnership”,
India and China will follow a “10-pronged strategy”. One of the strategies mentioned was “Revitalising Cultural Ties and Nurturing People-to People Exchanges”. Therefore, the idea of compiling an encyclopedia of India-China Cultural Contacts, as mooted in the joint communiqué of the Republic of India and the People’s Republic of China issued on December 16, 2010, during the Chinese Premier Mr Wen Jiabao’s visit to India, was considered to be a significant step forward in the right direction. It was intended to not only bring the history of many centuries of IndiaChina Cultural Contacts into public domain, easily accessible to people of both the countries, it was meant to provide a much-needed lift to the effort to build popular consciousness and confidence about our shared cultural experience. Not to mention the fact that being a state initiative, the project and its outcome is expected to carry the stamp of a political will and would be supported by the state-driven channels of dissemination and propagation.
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(Clockwise from top left) India-China diplomatic ties, religious assembly of Chinese monks, a Chinese dancer performs Indian dance, architecture depicting philosophical exchanges, interior of the Xuanzang Memorial Hall, China
Scope and themes
lC ontacts through history: Trade, diplomatic India-China Cultural Contacts have a history of contacts, visitors more than 2,000 years. Most of the literature on it lC hinese in India and Indians in China: Cultural has been due to the efforts of individual scholars adaptation and negotiation or groups of scholars who have been motivated l Civilisational discourse and cultural influence by academic and cultural legacy to embark upon l Cultural ambassadors and their contribution these projects. Late Prof Ji Xianlin lA cademic Exchanges; Chinese studies on the Chinese side, Prof Tan Chung in India; Indian studies in China on the Indian side and many others Needless to say, these themes were by Culture was have contributed immensely as much no means exhaustive but indicative of officially because of their academic commitment the parameters and categories used to proclaimed as for their personal conviction decide on final division and arrangement as one of the that the story of this shared cultural of sections. strategies journey must be spread far and wide. In order to reinforce the approach of Strategic Documentation of the ancient period of “connected histories” and explore Cooperative has been more comprehensive on the encounters and linkages that have Partnership Chinese side while there have been facilitated mutual enrichment and between India some interesting and untold narratives growth of our two cultures and societies, and China of colonial and modern period the encyclopedia’s focus is on: unearthed by some Indian scholars. lM ovement: People/ ideas/ objects The encyclopedia, undoubtedly, had to include and l I nteraction: Nature and sites of interaction collate all that has been already done while striving l I ncorporation: Processes of acculturation/ to fill some of the gaps that remain. adaptation/reaction Broad themes, each with its enmeshed sub-themes, which were considered for inclusion, are: Method and modalities l I nteraction through Buddhism The aim of the encyclopedia was to be as factual and l I nteraction through philosophy, language, objective as possible. It was expected that this would literature, art, science and technology enhance its lasting value and authoritativeness l The Silk Road: Overland and sea routes as a work of scholarship. Given some practical
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considerations such as time, resources and results, it was considered more feasible to think in terms of a comprehensive, authoritative single volume or at most two volumes which could then lay the basis for subsequent volumes expanding on different themes/ topics at a later stage if necessary. While planning this comprehensive volume(s), it was decided the sections be arranged as follows: lC hronological: The overviews to each section provide succinct accounts of the main developments in India-China Cultural Contacts in different time periods. l Topical: Entries under various categories written by experts. To name a few, trade and commerce, astronomy and arithmetic, music and musical instruments, language and communications, medicine, architecture, silk and tea production, monks, travellers etc. Cross-referencing was essential since material on a particular subject can be found in more than one entry. After project’s broad objectives and structure were agreed upon and finalised, the Shuiyue Guanyin mural in Fahai monastery, Beijing next step was to draw up a complete list of entries separately by both sides by going over indexes of basic reference works and other writing entries and to approve every entry. A joint published works. This list was then crosscompilation committee, composed of experts and checked to finalise a consensus list of entries. officials from both sides, was the final authority It was decided to form a group of experts, on that vetted and approved the final manuscripts in both sides, who met at regular intervals to discuss English and Chinese. ideas and issues related to the task of compiling this encyclopedia, and Conclusion to define the criteria for identifying The compilation of the Encyclopedia A joint entries for inclusion. Following of India-China Cultural Contacts compilation this exercise, both sides decided the has been a giant effort aimed committee, allocation of themes to each side. at “revitalising cultural ties” composed of The premise was that depending by revisiting, reliving and reexperts and upon the records and resources (both emphasising our shared cultural officials from material and human) available in experience. The project’s objective both sides, either country some themes would was to generate new ideas, new was the final best be initially prepared in English or research as well as consciousness authority in Chinese and then translated. This of the importance of the shared was expected to ensure an optimum historical experience of India and utilisation of time, energy and resources. Finally, China. In other words, it is a work in progress the expert group in both countries met again to that we hope will benefit from scholarly studies. distribute and assign the work of writing the entries Moreover, in the present context, the backdrop to different scholars. Last but not the least, a realistic of this shared experience will help us to fully time-frame was arrived at and had to be adhered understand and appreciate the truly boundless to with responsibility. This process was carried out possibilities of continuing this journey together in in a time-bound fashion to complete the task of today’s complex multipolar world. The writer is a professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University and an honorary fellow, Institute of Chinese Studies, New Delhi
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Photos: Aditya Singh
TRAVEL
Indian tiger INDIA PERSPECTIVES
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Sanctuaries of
wild wonders
We select the best national parks of India which promise a thrilling experience of rare and endangered species in their natural habitat
Ranthambore National Park
GOOD TO KNOW B EST TIME TO VISIT October
Common kingfisher
Predators in natural habitat Ranthambore National Park is one of the biggest and most renowned national parks in northern India. It is located in Sawai Madhopur district, Rajasthan. The park is famous for its tigers and is one of the best locations in India to see the majestic predators in their natural
habitat. The tigers can be easily spotted even during day time, busy at their ordinary quest – hunting as well as taking care of their young ones. Ranthambore is also counted as a famous heritage site because of the pictorial ruins that dot the premises.
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H OW TO REACH Jaipur, 145 km away, is the nearest airport. The nearest railway station is Sawai Madhopur, 11 km away. A good network of buses connects Sawai Madhopur to all the major cities A LSO SEE Striped hyenas, nilgai, jungle cats, caracals, sloth bears, Indian flying foxes, common kingfisher and long-eared hedgehogs
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Snow splendour
Located in the eastern part of Ladakh district in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, Hemis National Park has the distinction of being the largest national park in South Asia. Best known for snow leopard, the park boasts of 200 of the species and is a good place to spot Himalayan snowcock in India. The park houses numerous Tibetan gompas and holy chortens within its boundaries. These include the famous 400year old Hemis Monastery. The park offers a
number of routes for trekking from mid-June to mid-October. Lofty mountains and alpine forests of juniper and subalpine dry birch make for a visual treat. The park is a good place to study Himalayan and Trans-Himalayan birds of prey. Among birds of prey found here are golden eagle, lammergeier vulture and Himalayan griffon vulture. The confluence of Indus and Zanskar rivers acts as the park’s boundary and is a wonderful sight.
Hemis National Park
GOOD TO KNOW B EST TIME TO VISIT Between May and September H OW TO REACH Leh (32km) is the nearest airport. Hemis National Park can be reached by road via Leh by two routes – from Srinagar via Kargil on the SrinagarLeh highway and from Manali A LSO SEE Tibetan snowfinch, chukar, forktailed swift, red-billed chough, Ladakhi urial, Himalayan marmot, mountain weasel and Himalayan mouse hare Himalayan snowcock INDIA PERSPECTIVES
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Photo: Aditya Singh
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Red panda INDIA PERSPECTIVES
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Nature at an altitude
The Nokrek National Park is located in the West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya. It is classified as a Biosphere Reserve and was added to UNESCO’s Biosphere Reserve list in 2009. A green canopy of thick, tall and lush forests covers the Reserve. At an altitude of 4,650 ft above sea level, Nokrek is the highest peak in the Garo Hills and home to rare species of animals including Asian elephants
and red pandas. Nokrek is among the last remaining homes of the red pandas. Since red panda is on the verge of extinction, the national park has strict rules for exploring the core area where these animals dwell. There are seven species of primates in Nokrek including the famous hoolock gibbons. While in the park, one can also explore the beautiful Nokrek Peak and Rongbang Dare Waterfall.
Hoolock gibbons
GOOD TO KNOW
Nokrek National Park
128 km away. Buses and cabs are available from Guwahati and Shillong
B EST TIME TO VISIT Between October and March. The climate around this time is pleasing and one can enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna there
A LSO SEE Marbled cat, rare stump tailed macaque, pig-tailed macaque and Himalayan golden back woodpecker
H OW TO REACH The nearest airport and railway station are at Guwahati,
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Asiatic lions INDIA PERSPECTIVES
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Asiatic beauties
Famed as the sole abode of Asiatic lions, Sasan-Gir Forest National Park is a 1,412 sq km hilly tract of dry deciduous forests, acacia scrub, evergreen and semi-evergreen flora and grasslands. These lions were once found across northern Africa, southwest Asia and northern Greece. Now there are only around 411 left in the wild and all of them are in and around Gir. The forest area of Gir and its lions was declared as “protected” in the early 1900s by the Nawab of the then princely state of Junagadh in Gujarat. Antelope, leopard, jackals and deers are found because of the park’s forested hilly terrain. The park is also home to crocodiles and over 300 bird species. Brown fish owl
GOOD TO KNOW cabs are available from Ahmedabad, Rajkot and Junagarh
B EST TIME TO VISIT Between mid-October and mid-June
Sasan-Gir Forest National Park
H OW TO REACH The nearest airport is Keshod, 40 km away. Sasan Railway Station is around 5 km from Gir National Park. Buses and
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A LSO SEE Asiatic wild ass, hyenas, gir foxes, pygmy woodpecker, brown fish owl, sloth bear and black buck
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One-horned rhinoceros INDIA PERSPECTIVES
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Rhino land
Spread over 858 sq km, Kaziranga National Park is located on the banks of River Brahmaputra in Assam. It is divided into five ranges – Central (entry point at Kohora), Western (entry point at Bagori), Eastern (at Agratoli), Western-most Burha Pahar (at Ghorakati) and Northern. The best way of exploring Kaziranga is on elephant-back as they tread easily through tall grass. The park’s
prized possession, the rhinos are usually found in good numbers grazing with the deer. It has more than 70 per cent of the world’s onehorned rhinoceros. Interestingly, 57 per cent of the world’s wild Asiatic water buffaloes are found here too. It is also recognised as an important bird area by Birdlife International for conservation efforts. The park has 35 mammal species out of which 15 are endangered.
Wild elephants
GOOD TO KNOW road, one can reach here from Bokakhat (46 km), Nagaon (75 km) and Guwahati (200 km)
B EST TIME TO VISIT September and October
Kaziranga National Park
H OW TO REACH Rowraiah (Jorhat) is the nearest airport, 97 km away. The nearest railway station is Furkating, 80 km away. By
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A LSO SEE Leopard, fishing cat, sambar, barking deer, Assamese macaque and Gangetic dolphin
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SUCCESS
Top of the
world
Weighing 230 tonnes, PSLV-C23 put five overseas satellites in orbit and established India’s expertise in space technology text | Pallava Bagla
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ndia’s indigenously developed space countries of the South Asian Association for programme is undoubtedly a jewel in its Regional Cooperation and christened it the crown. On June 30, 2014, the country’s SAARC satellite. “We can be proud that our space workhorse rocket, the Polar Satellite programme is indigenous. We have developed Launch Vehicle (PSLV), added it despite international hurdles,” he another one when PSLV-C23 had a said. At 9.52 am on June 30, 2014, flawless flight, placing five overseas the PSLV lifted off majestically into Weighing 230 satellites in orbit. the sky. Weighing 230 tonnes, the tonnes, the 44.4m What made the day special for the 44.4 m high rocket vehicle, belching high vehicle Indian Space Research Organisation fire and leaving behind a smoke trail was belching (ISRO) was the presence of Prime extending hundreds of kilometres, fire, leaving Minister Mr Narendra Modi soon disappeared into the clouds. behind a smoke who flew into India’s spaceport PSLV-C23, in the configuration trail extending at Sriharikota to witness the it was flown, costs the exchequer hundreds of launch. “India’s advanced space `1,000 million. kilometres programme puts her in an elite This 26th consecutively successful global group of five-six countries. flight of the PSLV was also its fourth This is one domain in which we are at the fully commercial venture. The main passenger international cutting-edge. A domain in which was the 714 kg SPOT-7 satellite, an earth we have pushed beyond mediocrity to achieve observation bird with a camera capable of excellence,” Mr Modi said. resolving to about 2.2 m. This French The Indian Prime Minister asked scientists private sector satellite has to fabricate a new satellite that would benefit been manufactured
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at ISRO S EPT EM B ER- O CT O BE R
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PSLV-C23 TYPICAL FLIGHT PROFILE
4 Stage
655.1 x 657.7 km i = 98.23 degree AST CO
INJECTION
COAST-PS4 TRANSITION
e3
ag St
Sta g
e2
PS3 COASTTRANSITION
PS2-PS3 TRANSITION
PS2 THRUSTING
Time after lift-off
Altitude
Velocity
(kilometres)
(metres/ second)
VELOX-1 separation
1198.7
662.3
7526.7
NLS7.2 separation
1173.7
661.8
7526.9
NLS7.1 separation
1143.7
661.2
7527.1
AISAT separation
1113.7
660.6
7527.4
SPOT-7 separation
1073.7
659.8
7527.7
Fourth stage cut-off
1036.7
659.1
7521.0
Third stage separation
531.2
545.6
5331.0
Third stage ignition
521.2
536.8
5344.6
Second stage separation
263.4
220.2
3567.9
Heat shield ignition
262.2
218.7
3572.0
Second stage ignition
187.7
131.5
2256.8
First stage separation
110.6
52.9
1555.4
0.0
0.026
451.9
Event
(seconds)
Stage 1
PS1-PS2 TRANSITION
PS1 THRUSTING
LIFT-OFF
First stage ignition
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by Airbus Defence and Space. The other four smaller passengers included two satellites from Canada, NLS 7.1 & 7.2, to be used for formation flying with special features enabled for testing the Global Positioning System (GPS); a German satellite, AISAT, to be used to monitor ship traffic and the Singaporean VELOX-1 satellite, a technology demonstrator for making smaller, cheaper and lighter satellites in future. ISRO’s clients seemed more than happy. “We got a precise orbit and the lift-off was on time. We will come back to ISRO for another cost-effective launch if required,” said l Mr Phillipe Ghesquiers, programme director, PSLV-C23 was launched from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, SPOT-7 satellite of Airbus Defence and Space, Andhra Pradesh. Toulouse, France. l It was the tenth flight of PSLV in An elated ISRO chairman, Dr K ‘core-alone’ configuration (without Radhakrishnan said this PSLV-C23 launcher the use of solid strap-on motors). was readied in a record time of 50 days. He l PSLV-C23 has launched SPOT-7, a asserted that “this has to be the way forward 714 kg French earth observation in production mode for ISRO if it has to be satellite, into a 655 km Sun Synchronous Orbit. competitive in the global launch market.” It l SPOT-7 is built by AIRBUS Defence was a moment of pride for the 16,000 ISRO and Space, an European space employees when Mr Modi said India has done technology company. well against odds but added “yeh dil maange more” (this heart wants more). He said, “Today, I ask our space community to develop a SAARC satellite that we can dedicate to our neighbourhood, as a gift from India. A satellite that provides a full range of applications and service to all our Lanka and only India has end-to-end neighbours. I also ask you to enlarge capabilities in space technology. This was the the footprint of our satellite-based A visibly ecstatic Indian Prime 114th Indian navigation system to cover all of Minister, in his over 24-minute mission of the South Asia.” Further details of what speech from inside Satish Dhawan Indian space the “SAARC Satellite” would be Space Centre, said, “India is rooted agency that has like are still unavailable but former in our age-old ethos of Vasudeiva launched 40 ISRO chairman Dr K Kasturirangan Kutumbakam (the world is one suggests it could be a constellation family). India’s space programme satellites from of several small remote sensing is thus driven by a vision of service 19 different satellites that provide seamless to humanity and not by a desire of countries support during disasters; for power. For us, it is an important vegetation monitoring and help in instrument of our human progress. tracking climate change. We must, therefore, share the fruits of our In a first reaction, Bangladesh has already technological advancement with those who do welcomed the concept of having a dedicated not enjoy the same, the developing world and our SAARC satellite. The current membership of neighbours in particular.” SAARC includes Afghanistan, Bangladesh, This was the 114th Indian mission of the Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Indian space agency that has launched 40 satellites
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from 19 different countries. ISRO’s commercial from Indian soil, using an Indian rocket and take arm, the Antrix Corporation Limited, has an them into a low earth orbit. This human space annual turnover of about `15,000 million and flight is likely to cost `125,000 million. Till date has procured orders for three more dedicated only Russia, USA and China have the capabilities commercial launches using the PSLV which will of launching humans in space. place in orbit another 14 foreign satellites in India’s maiden mission to Mars, the the coming years. Mr VS Hegde, Mangalyaan, was also praised by chairman and managing director, Mr Modi. India’s journey from Antrix Corporation Limited, the Red Fort to the Red Planet The dreams of said, “We are already a force to be began well and the dreams of a India currently reckoned with and we are definitely billion-plus people currently ride ride on a 1,350 kg going to grow.” on a 1,350 kg satellite which is satellite heading On his first visit to an Indian now heading for Mars, ready to for Mars, ready science facility, Prime Minister rendezvous on September 24, 2014, to rendezvous Mr Modi was also shown the latest with the Red Planet. It will make on September monster rocket, the Geosynchronous India the first Asian nation to 24 with the Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III orbit Mars. Red Planet (GSLV Mk III), a massive 630 tonne The cost of the maiden Mars rocket capable of ferrying astronauts mission is around `4,500 million and into space. In the coming months, about 500 scientists toiled to fabricate this rocket will ferry the crew module, capable of it. The Indian Prime Minister said, “Even today, our carrying two-three Indian astronauts, on its first programme stands out as the most cost-effective test flight. On its maiden flight, it will not carry in the world. The story of our Mars mission, humans and after the launch, it will be recovered costing less than the Hollywood movie Gravity, had from the sea. This initiative is a part of the critical gone viral on social media recently. Our scientists technology development programme for human have shown the world a new paradigm of frugal space flight which will launch Indian astronauts engineering and the power of imagination.”
The Indian Prime Minister talks to ISRO scientists INDIA PERSPECTIVES
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PSLV-C23 AT A GLANCE
(Vehicle lift-Off Mass 230 tonne Height 44.4m) Stage 1
Stage 2
Stage 3
Stage 4
Nomenclature
PS1
PS2
PS3
PS4
Propellant
Solid
Liquid
Solid
Liquid
Mass (tonne)
138
42
7.6
2.5
Max thrust (kN)
4787
804
242
7.3 x 2
Burn time (s)
102
148
110
526
Stage diameter (m)
2.8
2.8
2.8
2.8
Stage length (m)
20
12.8
3.6
3.0
(HTPB based)
UH25 + N2O4
(HTPB based)
MMH + MON-3
HTPB: Hydroxyl Terminated Poly Butadiene UH25: Unsymmetrical Dimenthyl Hydrazine + 25% Hydrazine Hydrate N2O4: Nitrogen Tetroxide MMH: Mono Menthyl Hydrazine, MON-3: Mixed Oxides of Nitrogen
Mr Modi tried to lay to rest the age-old India today has a large constellation of controversy that space is meant only for the rich operational satellites. There are 10 communication and the famous. He said, “I believe that space satellites providing seamless coverage for Indian technology is fundamentally connected with the land mass that has also helped the country’s common man. It can empower and electronic media sector boom. transform their lives. Technology There are 12 remote sensing earth The cost of the opens up new opportunities of observation satellites that provide maiden Mars development. And gives us new ways world-class images and also help mission is of addressing our challenges. Space India secure its borders. There are around `4,500 may seem distant but is an integral two special satellites in orbit as part million and part of our daily life. It drives our of the Indian Regional Navigation modern communication, connecting Satellite System that promises to be about 500 even the remotest family to the operational by 2016 and would be scientists toiled mainstream. It empowers the child similar to the American GPS system to fabricate it in the farthest village with quality but one that India controls. from scratch education, through long-distance “Technology is central to learning. It ensures quality healthcare development,” said Mr Modi literally to the most distant person, through tele-medicine. enunciating a new vision for India in space and It enables the youth in a small town, with various explained, “It has a critical role, in realising new job opportunities. It helps us connect virtually the vision of a Digital India – the power of where physical connections are difficult.” 1.25 billion connected Indians.” The author is a science writer and has authored Destination Moon: India’s Quest for Moon, Mars and Beyond S EPT EM B ER- O CT O BE R
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Non-violent strides
towards freedom
As the nation celebrates Mahatma Gandhi’s 145th birth anniversary on October 2, we trace his illustrious life and achievements
1893: He is thrown off a
train at Pietermaritzburg in South Africa after he refuses to give up his first class reservation and move to third class. He protests and gets a first class seat the next day but is beaten up by the driver as he refuses to make room for a European traveller. Gandhi decides to oppose this by bringing together people from other countries living in South Africa.
October 2, 1869 Diwan of the princely state of Porbandar, Karamchand Gandhi and his fourth wife, Putli Bai, are blessed with a baby boy who is named Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi.
June, 1891:
Mohandas clears the Bar examination and becomes a lawyer after attending Inner Temple Law School in the United Kingdom. He represents Indian Muslim traders in South Africa.
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1894: To oppose a
Bill denying Indians the right to vote in South Africa, he forms Natal Indian Congress. Though NIC is unable to stop the Bill, Gandhi starts a crusade against injustice.
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1897: When he lands at
Durban Harbour, South Africa in January, a group of White settlers beat him up. The wife of the Durban Police Chief tries to save him. The event gets huge media coverage and the colonial government is forced to arrest the Whites. Gandhi refuses to press charges and leverages public admiration. The attackers offer a public apology.
1906: The Asian Population Registration Act is enacted. It requires all Asian residents to register their personal information and carry a card with their fingerprints. Gandhi asks people to not register and suffer punishment. Thus, Satyagraha (non-violent movement started by Gandhi to help India attain independence) gains prominence. Over seven years, several protesters are jailed or shot.
1908: In August, Gandhi and around 2,000
Indians burn their registration cards. Gandhi and other leaders are arrested and the country witnesses many protests.
1930: Britishers
pass the Salt Act that makes it illegal for Indians to make salt. On March 12, 61-year-old Gandhi travels 320 km on foot for 24 days to Dandi to make salt. Millions of Indians join him. Gandhi is arrested.
1943: The 73-year-old
starts a hunger strike that lasts 21 days to protest against India’s Partition.
1919: The British Government enforces
the Rowlatt Act that allows it to arrest suspected “terrorists” and keep them in prison without trial. The Indian National Congress starts the Hartal Movement – thousands of Indians stop working, stop selling and buying British goods. Riots occur. Nearly 400 Indians are killed and a thousand are injured in Amritsar.
1920: Gandhi
encourages Indians to boycott British products, asks them to produce their own clothes.
August 14-15, 1947: The Indian
Independence Act is enacted and India becomes an independent state.
1942: He launches the Quit
India campaign to declare India’s Independence. Agitated rulers imprison Gandhi.
1944:
Fearing that he would die in prison due to deteriorating health, Gandhi and fellow leaders are released.
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January 30, 1948:
Nathuram Godse fires three bullets at the Mahatma from point blank range at 5.17 pm at Birla House in New Delhi.
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Coming into the
limelight
Arunachal Pradesh, the largest of the seven sister states in northeastern India, attained statehood on February 20, 1987. It is continuously working towards economic and social development text | Supriya Aggarwal
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A
runachal Pradesh, known as the land produce electricity in excess of 27,000 MW. of dawn-lit mountains, is the largest Construction of the Upper Siang Hydroelectric state of northeastern India. With a Project, expected to generate between 10,000 to current gross domestic 12,000 MW, began in April 2009. product estimated at `93.570 billion, The Indian government has agriculture is its main source of emphasised the “Look East With a current income. The state got its first Policy” which calls for greater gross domestic railway line this year. infrastructure for industries and product trade. The North East Industrial estimated at Industrial and and Investment Promotion `93.570 billion, agricultural policy Policy-2007 (NEIIPP-2007) has agriculture is the Arunachal Pradesh accounts for a been formulated by the Union main source of large percentage of India’s potential Ministry of Commerce and Industry income here for producing hydroelectricity. It for development in the region. is encouraging the establishment The state’s agricultural of industrial undertakings in private and development strategy focusses on achieving selfcooperative sectors for sustainable development. sufficiency in foodgrain production and marketing In 2008, the state government signed deals agricultural produce. The state has around for around 42 hydroelectric schemes to 61,000 sq km of forests and forest products are a
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significant sector. Rice, maize, millet, sugarcane, ginger and oilseeds are popular crops of the state.
Tourism
Arunachal Pradesh is home to picturesque mountains, tranquil lakes and famous monasteries. Tourist attractions include Tawang Monastery, Rukhmini Nagar and Ganga Lake. The Jawahar Lal Nehru Museum in Itanagar showcases aspects of tribal life. Namdapha National Park is known for clouded leopards and Asiatic black bears, Pakhui Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for tigers and Asiatic jackals and Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary has jungle cats and Indian porcupine. There are options of angling, boating, trekking and rafting.
Education
Arunachal Pradesh saw a sharp improvement in its literacy rate in recent years. The state government, along with some NGOs, is expanding the education system and opportunities for higher education. The main universities are Rajiv Gandhi University and Himalayan University. The North Eastern Regional Institue for Science and Technology plays an important role in technical and management education. Trust institutes like Pali Vidyapith run by Buddhists teach Pali and Khamti scripts apart from regular subjects. Khamti is the only tribe in Arunachal Pradesh that has its own script. There are many libraries of scriptures in Lohit district, the largest one in Chowkham.
Dibang Valley
Tawang
Itanagar
NOT TO MISS l Bamboo shoot fry,
fish stew and thukpa (common among the “Monpa� tribe) are must-trys. l There are ample bird
watching opportunities. Over 500 species are found here, many endangered.
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Sela Pass district of Tawang
Recent developments
The state got its first railway line from Harmuti to Naharlagun in April 2014. The construction of the 33 km long, 1,676 mm broad gauge railway link was completed in 2012. There are 46 minor and 11 major bridges on the line. This railway line has made Itanagar the second capital among the North Eastern states after Guwahati to be put on the railway map of India. There are also plans to connect upper regions of Assam to Arunachal Pradesh.
Disaster management
Arunachal Pradesh has diverse topography. Hence, the state’s disaster management authority introduced the Arunachal Pradesh Disaster Management Policy (APDMA) to establish necessary systems, resources and guiding principles for reducing vulnerability in order to save lives and property. Also, the policy focusses on avoiding disruption of economic activity and damage to environment. A woman sifting grain S EPT EM B ER- O CT O BE R
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On an adventure
high
India offers a variety of options for those who love the adrenalin rush. Choose from white water rafting, skiing, trekking, dune bashing and an array of water sports...
Baga Beach Colva Beach
Water sports in Goa
The sea offers adventures galore between October and May in Goa. You can choose windsurfing, a unique combination of surfing and sailing or try your hand at water skiing behind a speed boat (which can go up to a speed of around 50 km per hour), sea sprays cooling you down as you hold on tight to the rope... Parasailing is another option that gives you breathtaking views of the sea and the beach – an approximately 300 ft rope attaches your parasail harness to the speedboat. You may also choose to whiz down the waves with your partner on a water scooter.
Must do: Challenge your balancing abilities on
the banana boat, a cylindrical rubber ‘raft’. Don’t forget your life jacket – it’s likely that you end up taking a tumble into the blue waters!
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Arunachal Pradesh
Assam
Nagaland
Meghalaya
Manipur
Tripura Mizoram
Trekking in the North East
Sighting rare species of flora and fauna is one of the many reasons why one would go trekking in the North East. Hire guides who will walk with you (and carry supplies) as you witness impressive hills and waterfalls. While Arunachal Pradesh has an abundance of rare plant species, Meghalaya has challenging terrain. Flowers including rhodendron and orchid add to Meghalaya’s scenic beauty and lush greens make Nagaland a must-visit. A trek can last for a few days, giving you a chance to enjoy Nature as you camp in tents, sit around a bonfire and simply absorb the sights and sounds. Best time is between October and February.
Must do: Try the yak safari to test
endurance levels. You get to walk through terrain where there are no roads!
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Photo courtesy: Anwar Hossain Chowdhury
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Photo: Dinesh Shukla
SNAPSHOTS
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Jaisalmer
Dune bashing in Rajasthan
This is literally going off the beaten track. It gives you the thrill of a lifetime as your vehicle goes up and down the dunes, the sand rising high in the air when your driver revs up the engine. You can also take a crash course in sand driving and dune manoeuvring and take the wheel yourself, skillfully negotiating the climbs and drops. Folk dances and authentic Rajasthani meals are part of the deals on offer. The best dunes for this sport are in the city of Jaisalmer and the ideal time is between November and April.
Must do: Stay overnight at one of the villages and enjoy the local delicacies. Don’t forget to take a camel ride before the sun sets.
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Gulmarg
Skiing on the slopes of Kashmir The seemingly effortless glide down the sunny slopes of Gulmarg in Kashmir can be a memorable experience, the peak season being between December and March. The area is known for deep and dry “curry powder” snow. You can take a gondola (ski lift) to the higher slopes for the exciting downhill ski ride, dodging alpine trees and enjoying the exhilarating breeze. Cross-country runs of relatively untracked and undiscovered peaks at up to 5,000 m altitude are on offer for experienced skiers. Beginners can ride down avalanche monitored and protected alpine “bowls” which are only a few kilometres long. The latest on offer is heli-skiing with which one can travel to less-frequented tracks. Also try Srinagar, Pahalgam and Sonmarg as ski venues.
Must do: Look out for monkeys
and foxes, interesting sights during your descent.
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Rishikesh
White water rafting in Rishikesh
The thrill of riding the white waters of River Ganga is unmatched. A group of up to 12 can take a ride on a rubber raft, fighting the powerful rapids. Life jackets and safety helmets are musts as is a keen sense of awareness, quick thinking and body strength to be able to cover the stretch of around 16 km from Shivpuri to Ramjhula, Rishikesh. You can take a package deal for rafting which includes stay in tents next to the River Ganga and wake up to the chirping of birds and the sound of the river while cosy bonfires with live music await you at night. The best time for rafting is between February and June and then in October and November.
Must do: Take a jump from 30-40ft high cliffs into the cool waters for a refreshing break.
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Treasure trove of
hidden glory
Recent excavations at Old Fort in New Delhi have unearthed rare relics and artefacts ranging from the Mauryan to Mughal periods as well as beyond – of the British and modern times text | Vatsala Kaul Banerjee
T
he scorching and humid day turns brighter with a field of golden discoveries on the Purana Qila (Old Fort) premises in New Delhi. An amazing part of India’s vast and remarkable antiquity is displayed in 10x10 m squares and layers upon layers, brought up out of the ground right in the imperial city. Delhi, an ancient Indian city, lies upon several sedimentations of the past. But to witness the cross-sections of its history and imagine the realities of the era buried in time and textbooks, is a goose-bumpy and surreal experience. There, behind, to the southeast of the Sher Mandal of Sher Shah on Old Fort grounds, is an excavation site, boasting nine quadrangles of incredible archaeology, the result of the dedicated and industrious efforts of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). As you face the step-deck style excavation on the slope, the visible clues to our ageold history are enough to astound: Look down and there is a stunningly neat well, made of burnt rounded terracotta pipes, of the Mauryan period. Look up and you see
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Photos: Ajit Krishna
a goat-kid burial site of Rajput times and again Since January this year, ASI has been working from the time, a heap of terracotta sakoras painstakingly towards the excavation and (bowls), probably the remains of a banquet. research of the discoveries. The site has been Look right and some of the pots excavated twice before, in the and jars of the Guptas and later 1950s and then the 1970s, with the periods are still embedded in the idea of establishing link with the The site has soil, silent carriers of information epic Mahabharata. been excavated that will soon be documented. This depends on the finding twice before, You can witness the stone-paved of Painted Grey Ware (PGW) in the 1950s drains of an ancient home from that connects Mahabharata sites. and the 1970s, the Mauryan period, mud bricks of “PGW has been found down to with the idea the Sunga period (from about 200 the Mauryan levels,” says Vishnu of establishing BCE), later Kushan bricks of around Kant, assistant superintending link to the epic 200 CE and later constructions archaeologist, ASI, “dated to Mahabharata with bricks “robbed” from the same about 2,500 years ago, or around constructions. A Sultanate wall of 500 BCE, and the search is on stones has also been unearthed. As archaeologist for finding it at lower levels.” It is believed David Hurst Thomas once said, “Archaeology is that a Mahabharata site exists somewhere not what you find, it’s what you find out.” closeby in the area.
(Facing page) The benign-looking Vaikunth Vishnu idol; (above) terracotta sakoras from Rajput times S EPT EM B ER- O CT O BE R
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At the archival excavation site, some delicate work is still going on under the patient and informed supervision of Kant. “The Old Fort has been known to be a continuously inhabited ancient site, and the excavation well reveals eight continuous historic periods,” he says. The site shows a continuous sequence from Mauryan to Mughal periods through Sunga, Kushan, Gupta,
Rajput and Sultanate periods. There is evidence beyond as well, of the British or modern times as well, from small artefacts of the time. This most recent excavation has birthed a treasure trove of relics ranging from the Kushan period, the Gupta era and the Rajput times. A 12th-century Vaikunth Vishnu sculpture, a terracotta seal, an ivory pendant and a Gajalakshmi medallion of Gupta
(Clockwise from top left) One of the many pots discovered here; a worker at the site; a small holder with a swastika on one side; assorted tiny diyas and bowls
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Painted Grey Ware (PGW) connects Mahabharata sites. It has been found down to the Mauryan levels dated to about 2,500 years ago, or around 500 BCE, and the search is on for finding it at lower levels. The Old Fort has been known to be a continuously inhabited ancient site, and the excavation well reveals eight continuous historic periods.” Vishnu Kant, assistant superintending archaeologist, ASI
times, and a tiny 18th-century Ganesha idol are only a few of the prized finds. There are many more remarkable artefacts and items: Shards of beautiful pottery from the Mauryan times onwards including beautiful Sultanate pottery and even “blue” Mughal pottery, Sunga figurine heads with intriguing hairstyles and a tonsured Kushan head (possibly a Buddhist monk), undeciphered copper coins, micro-beads of glass and semiprecious beads, a gamesman and a die, pieces of Northern Black Polished Ware (NBPW) that connects Asokan sites from India to Sri Lanka (some has been found in Anuradhapur), used diyas of assorted sizes and charred wheat and rice grain have also been found.
On World Heritage Day on April 18, the site was opened to the people for a day. So overwhelming was the response that it was extended to two days. From excited children to old people using walking sticks, all came to witness the splendid slice of our eventful history. The more we uncover, the more we find that there is so much to learn from our rich and fragile past and its enduring golden moments.
(Left to right) The Gajalakshmi medallion; an 18th-century tiny Ganesha idol; a figurine with an interesting hairstyle; a beautifully structured ancient well
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How many
diversities?
India is a land of many religions, languages, cultures, cuisines... Despite contradicting each other in beliefs and customs, its 1.2 billion population is united by “the idea of India”, a nebulous and yet existentially experienced concept text | BS Prakash
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ndian diplomats, a tribe to which I belong, Kannada, Tamil etc – on it. Or a simpler are fond of some phrases while explaining device: Ask different colleagues in an Embassy India’s reality to foreign audiences. These what they spoke at home – Hindi, Telugu or “quotes” by repetition are in danger of Marathi – demonstrating the true heterodoxy of becoming clichés but capture true Indian essence. our land, to revel in others’ wonder as to how The Sanskrit adage, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam all these tongues were accommodated in one or the whole world is one family, Embassy. I did this for 30 years. depicts India’s external outlook But I was still amazed by what Five of the eight down the ages. “Unity in diversity” I recently learnt on a visit to is another, to capture the manifold Bengaluru. A friend and I were Jnanpith award multiplicity within. discussing DR Bendre, a legendary winners writing I too had spoken at length poet with a philosophical bent of in Kannada are marvelling at our diversity: Many mind who had expressed profound comfortable religions, languages, cultures, ideas in the Kannada idiom of his using another cuisines... The uniqueness of a region. “But he spoke Marathi at language country with more than a billion home,” remarked my friend. We at home! people often contradicting each also found that as many as five of other in belief and customs, yet the eight Jnanpith award winners united by “the idea of India”, a nebulous yet writing in Kannada were comfortable using existentially experienced concept. another language at home! I had some tricks up my sleeve to illustrate Jnanpith is India’s prestigious literary award, the point to foreigners. A `100 currency note a supreme recognition for an Indian language always nestled in my wallet, taken out with a writer. The name is evocative of India’s flourish to show the different scripts – Bengali, traditional reverence for wisdom: ‘Jnanpith’
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GOOD TO KNOW J NANPITH AWARD One of the most prestigious literary awards of India along with the Sahitya Akademi award. It is awarded to any Indian who
translates as the seat of knowledge and one component of the award is a bronze statute of Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of learning. The first award was given in 1965 and by 2014, 49 awards have been made. Eight awards have gone to Kannada writers, next only to the 10 to Hindi writers. Those writing in other Indian languages too have won the awards testifying to the
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writes in one of the official Indian languages. A K RAMANUJAM Indian poet and scholar who believed in giving local, nonstandard dialects their due.
vibrant century-old literary traditions in all these languages, with their distinctive scripts. These languages are more different from each other than Italian, French, Spanish and Portuguese are with their common script and roots. Indians take the multiple tongues around them for granted and most educated Indians are at least bilingual, excluding English. What is remarkable, however, is the complexity of individual identity even within the ranks of writers who have reached the zenith of creativity in one language but are comfortable with others.
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Here are some examples that illustrate the geographical, cultural and hence, linguistic plurality in just one Indian state, Karnataka, and that too among the top literary giants in its main language, Kannada. In 1967, KV Puttappa, known by his pen name Kuvempu, won the Jnanpith Award for his epic poem Sri Ramayana Darshanam. He hailed from the hilly parts of the old Mysore state, ruled by the Maharaja of Mysore. A native Kannada speaker, the book that won him the honour is cast in a highly classical Kannada influenced by Vedantic thought and Sanskrit. But earlier, he had written novels in rustic idioms that create a universe of rain-soaked hamlets Indians take the nestling in the hills and a multiple tongues multi-layered society of around them landowners and farmers. for granted and The 1973 award most educated went to someone very Indians are at different in terms of least bilingual, region, dialect and excluding English persona. Bendre, a lyrical poet, known sometimes as Kannada’s Shelley, was educated in Pune, spoke Marathi and came from Dharwar, a town in northern Karnataka. VK Gokak, the 1990 awardee, came from the same region but with a different background: a scholar and a vice chancellor in an elitist mould with a deep understanding of Indian civilisational ethos. In contrast, Shivaram Karant, who won the award in 1971, was a multifaceted personality rooted in coastal Karnataka and close to the town of Udupi (a temple town now famous for its restaurants). A genius with varied interests, Karant immersed himself in every area of knowledge, so much so that he wrote an encyclopedia in Kannada! Folk theatre, yakshagana, science, environment, drawing, agriculture: There was no aspect of living in his region that
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The Jnanpith award (left) and two of its winners, Girish Karnad (below) and KV Puttappa (bottom)
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(Left) Lyrical poet DR Bendre (right) Celebrated writer UR Ananta Murthy
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did not get his attention. Karant’s mother tongue about Indian plurality in general and linguistic was Tulu, a different language of the coast but variety as one particular. It is apt to cite AK he wrote extensively, a novel a year, depicting in Ramanujam, an inspiring Kannada poet and a stark manner, the hardships of the rural land scholar, who died young but personified the rich around him and without much attention to the and multiple heritage that we inherit. Literary stylistic aspects of Kannada. critic Namita Gokhale quotes Ramanujam In contrast is Bengaluru bureaucrat Masti about his own natural polyglot personality: “By Venkatesh Iyengar who crafted exquisite short a curious perversity, I read Tamil constantly stories of simplicity and great beauty in the Kannada area, Kannada in but spoke Tamil at home. Masti the Tamil area, studied and taught Jnanpith represents a long line of illustrious English in India, and India and awardee Iyengars and Iyers who have been as Indian languages in the US. (In Shivaram fluent in Kannada as in Tamil where his fictional autobiography, the Karant, whose their forefathers came from. protagonist, an Indian with an Other celebrated Jnanpith American wife teaching history mother tongue winners are still with us. Girish in a small Iowa college recollects was Tulu, wrote Karnad speaks his childhood): ‘In my early years, an encyclopedia Konkani and I spoke Madras Tamil to Amma, I in Kannada! Marathi, cerebral switched to Mysore Tamil with our novelist and Iyengar housemaids who cooked essayist UR Ananta Murthy has for us; outside the house, I spoke Kannada with been a professor of English. friends. Upstairs in his office, Appa conversed Both of them are strong in English… Thus, upstairs-downstairs, insidesupporters of recognition outside, I grew accustomed to three languages.’” for writing in other “How many Ramayanas? Three hundred? Indian languages. Three thousand?” begins a well-known scholarly These examples relate to essay by Ramanujam. Remembering him, we Kannada but the larger point is may ask, “How many diversities?”
INDIAN DIPLOMACY The writer is a former Indian ambassador
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CUISINE
An Indian love
affair for life
From aroma to nectar-sweet taste, mango is a winner all the way. While India is the largest producer and consumer of this fruit, it is also popular as an ingredient in global cuisine text | Jahnavi Sarma
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ne of the most popular tropical India is known for a mind-boggling choice fruits in the world, mango has been too: Raspuri, Safeda (Bainganpalli), Neelam, cultivated in India since ancient Himayat, Thamboor Priyoor, Malgova and times. In fact, mangoes originated Mallika, each with distinct colour and taste. in East India, Burma (now Myanmar) and the Kesar, known for its unique sweetness and Andaman Islands. Buddhist monks long shelf life, is grown in Gujarat are believed to have introduced it to and Maharashtra. Malaysia and eastern Asia around Mango is used 5th century BC. Indian cuisine extensively as Today, almost half of the world’s Its subtle, delectable taste makes a flavouring mangoes are produced in India but mango an ingredient of choice in agent and the country accounts for less than cooking. Till date, mango ice cream, makes a one per cent of the international aam panna (raw mangoes cooked great topping mango trade – the fruit is mostly with spices – a meal accompaniment on cereals consumed in India itself. From and a refreshing drink) and mango like muesli the fibreless, fragrant Alphonso pickle are common in Indian and oats mango to the sweet and pulpy households. Then there are regional Badami variation, India claims the specialties like Maharashtra’s distinction of being the highest producer of amrakhand (mango shrikhand) that combines this fruit in the world with China coming a whipped mango pulp with sweet yogurt. In close second. A variety of mangoes including north India, mangoes are thinly sliced and Sindhuri, Dussehri, Chausa, Fazli, Lucknowa, sun-dried to make a preserve called murabba. Jauhari, Gulaab Khaas and Langra are cultivated Mango-flavoured sambhar (lentil-based gravy in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. South dish with tamarind) in south India and a tangy
Aam panna
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mango-flavoured dal (lentils curry) in north India are delicacies made during summer. Aamras, juice made of mango pulp with sugar or milk, goes with bread, rice or pooris (fried bread) in Gujarat, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. Ripe mango pulp is used to make a jam called mangada by the Konkanis in west India. Mango is used in Andhra Pradesh to make dal while Gujaratis use it to make chunda (grated mango delicacy). Mango lassi (mango blended with yogurt) is a drink of choice for most Indians as well as South Asians.
like mango salsa, mango jelly and mango relish. In the Philippines, raw mango is eaten with bagoong (a condiment made of fermented fish or shrimp and salt), fish sauce or with simply a dash of salt. Though used extensively in preparing fish dishes, this fruit works well with chicken too. In Thailand, it is used to flavour curries and in central America, it is relished raw with salt, vinegar, black pepper and hot sauce. Mangoes are often chargrilled and consumed in Hawaii, America. In Latin America, peeled mango on a stick is sold by street vendors. This fruit is used as a flavouring agent and makes a great topping on cereals like muesli and oats.
Global appeal
Chefs across the world are experimenting with mango in their menus. In India, we come across innovative dishes like mango biryani (rice-based
In Western cuisine, mangoes are used to make jams and desserts. Also popular are delicacies
Innovative uses
(Above) Mango shrikhand (top) Mango pickle INDIA PERSPECTIVES
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A variety of mango ice creams
dish with spices, vegetables and mango), raw mango paratha (fried bread with raw mango filling) and aamras aloo (potato-based dish with ripe mango sauce). Internationally, Japan has come up with a sweet sushi where the rolls are filled with mango. Sweet aromatic sticky rice made with coconut milk and topped with fresh mangoes is a dessert served in many Southeast Asian countries. Some chefs in Western countries serve mangoes with bread. Shrimp cooked with mango and cheese-stuffed jalape単os and rolls stuffed with pork and mango are some new offerings in the United States.
Health plus
The fruit comes with numerous health benefits. Mango dishes are full of iron and vitamins A and E, and are great sources of nutrition for pregnant women and anaemic people. It helps fight acidity, improves digestion and being rich in antioxidants is good for skin. It contains selenium which protects against heart diseases. A cupful of sliced mangoes prevents night blindness and helps maintain good eyesight.
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Dal Chawal Arincini with achaar, papad and chutney INDIA PERSPECTIVES
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Enlivening a
legacy
Indian cuisine is reasserting its purity on the global culinary map. We take a look at the story behind the concept called Modern Indian Cuisine text | Madhulika Dash
Photos courtesy: Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra
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t was in 1809 that Indian gastronomy arrived in the West with Chicken Tikka Masala (roasted chicken chunks). Served at Hindostanee Coffee House, owned by the son of a former sepoy of the East India Company, Dean Mahomet, this mildly-spiced boneless chicken dish, by the turn of the year, was announced as a “culinary allowance� for members in the House of Commons. A century-and-a-half later, the world was introduced to Butter Chicken (cream-based gravy dish) and Dal Makhani (creamy lentils dish). These three dishes became synonymous to Indian cuisine. Contrary to popular belief, none of these were consciously tailormade to appease Western palates. Like the fabled Biryanis (rice dish with spices and meat/vegetable) and Kebabs (roasted chunks of meat or vegetables) that introduced a new Indian culinary chapter, they were the result of
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Dabba Gosht
the want to create something new from the traditional. This process led to evolution of technique and ingredients. And, in turn, became a concept called Modern Indian Cuisine. Result: Every new culinary “generation” saw the emergence of a new way to prepare it. For instance, the Biryani. Developed by Mughal queen Mumtaz Mahal to feed armies and yet travel miles without losing flavour, it underwent seven iterations before the Mughal
dynasty declined. The Hyderabadi Biryani introduced the popular concept of slow cooking or the dum technique. In modern times, newer means to achieve traditional flavour were invented. Today, Nihari uses Sous Vide to achieve the succulence begot by cooking the meat overnight – individual shanks are marinated, vacuum packed and cooked in a water bath for lesser hours. Techniques like Molecular Gastronomy were
Braised Mutton Chaap with maple and kokum glaze INDIA PERSPECTIVES
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A reflection of evolution Indian cuisine continues to evolve. The Galouti Kebab saw light of day courtesy royal patronage. It was created for the queen who wanted a soft and succulent delicacy. Then there were the Tunde Kebabs, named after the onehanded cooks who worked unending hours to pound the meat to perfection. Yet another innovation was the Rampuri Khichda, the result of a competition between the cooks of Nawabs of Awadh, Lucknow, Hyderabad and Rampur. The dish was made with almonds carved
to resemble rice and pista (pistachio) along with lentils. World-famous rosogullas, known for their softness, had their genesis in the need to create something unique from excess. Legend has it that Pahado Rosogulla (named after a small village near Bhubaneswar in Odisha) variety evolved because of excess milk there. In fact, it is often said the chenna paudo (caramelised ricotta cheese), India’s first cheesecake, was an attempt to create a large rosogulla that went wrong.
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incorporated to compensate for balancing it a smoky flavour. It brings out the flavours in most flavours or for better presentation. Like in the tandoor items, including the pate-style Galawati case of Raita (spiced yogurt) spherification, Kebab (shallow fried tender meat/vegetable patties) popularised by Gaggan Restaurant in Bangkok that was reintroduced in the first menu of the Dum where the spicy yogurt preparation is served Pukht restaurant at ITC Maurya, New Delhi back on a chilled spoon in spherical in the 80s along with the famous Raan shape using sodium alginate as that came with a rum-marinade and setting agent. Encapsulated in cocktail onions in a Wellington-style The Biryani, bubbles, the flavours of yoghurt and puff pastry case. developed by Indian spices burst in the mouth, Reinvention, in fact, became a Mumtaz Mahal, giving the same taste without key factor in reasserting the purity underwent seven overwhelming spices. Something of Indian cuisine on the global iterations before similar was achieved with Jalebi culinary map. For instance, the the Mughal Caviar where molecular technique Atta Chicken (baked spicy chicken dynasty came to is used to create Jalebi (flour-based made inside a flour ball), a signature an end fried sweet) that resembles a bed of dish at Taj Mahal Palace & Towers’ orange caviars. Served over chilled Masala Kraft. This Khad-inspired Rabdi (milk dessert), it replicates the traditional dish (north Indian pottery community) follows Jalebi-Rabdi taste. the nomadic school of cooking where marinated Ghee Ghost (grilled mutton basted with clarified chicken was cooked buried in sand for hours butter) also changed the way food was flavoured. or from the heat of smoldering embers of the Introduced by the Bunts of Kundapur, a warrior tandoor. At Masala Kraft, the dish is prepared community in South India, it became a prominent inside earthen pots in an oven for 45 minutes way of basting meat on tandoor (clay oven) to give and served with fresh Phulkaas (Indian bread).
Tandoori Pink Salmon
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Jalebi Caviar with saffron glaze and pistachio rabdi (below) Amuse Bouche or sev puri on the go
Mutton Chaap (roasted goat ribs) is another interesting reinvention. The once rustic Afghan dish that had salt and chilli as marination has undergone numerous iterations, the most popular being the marination with aamchur (powdered raw mango) and garam masala (blend of spices like cumin, black pepper, clove...). The Mutton Chaap with Maple Syrup and Kokum Glaze served at Masala Library by Jiggs Kalra comes closer to the first Mutton Chaap. It follows the tandoor roast technique to prepare, the glaze which seeps down to the bone giving the dish character. The Mishti Doi Lollipop, made by instantly freezing dollops of Mishti Doi (sweet jaggery yogurt) in an Anti Griddle, uses cold nitrogen gas to freeze and can sustain flavours despite temperature changes. Not all dishes have to resort to a change in technique to become part of the modern cuisine interpretation; some score
through wholesomeness, others through presentation. Like the Moplah-style Ghee Rice and Chicken Curry, steamed and served in a green banana leaf or a piquant Meen Vevichathu (seer fish in a chilli-based gravy) scores on the former. The combination of dishes both fiery hot and genteel works at balancing flavours and creating the traditional identity without spice overuse. The Curry Leaf Pepper Prawns and Thayir Sadam (chilled tempered yogurt rice) served on a shell is yet another example of such flavour foreplay. The chilled curd rice balances the peppery heat of the prawns. The Dal Chawal Arancini (panco coated, fried lentil-rice balls) works on presentation. This traditional Maharastrian staple is served like a meatball garnished with mini papads (thin sheets of black gram), chutneys and achaar (pickle) for a single-bite experience, much like the Dahi Bhalla (lentil doughnut with spiced yogurt) ice cream served at Ziya, The Oberoi Mumbai.
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‘I have no worries
at present’
After a trophy-less 2013, India’s ace shuttler Saina Nehwal has regained her form and fitness and is ready to win more titles text | Garima Verma
C
ritics have a funny way of functioning. When India’s topmost badminton player Saina Nehwal won the bronze at 2012 Olympics, she was a girl who could never put a wrong foot. Then came a period of lull, accompanied by dearth of titles and trophies and the champ became someone who didn’t know how to put a right one. Saina, however, aided by her mental strength, survived this phase. If she knows how to bask in glory, she also knows how to tread through condemnation without getting scarred. “It happens,” Saina says. “When we are winning, we get all the applause and one loss ushers in criticism. But I take it all in sportingly. In the latest incident too, I tried to recover from my injuries and trained more vigorously.” After winning the coveted Olympic bronze
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in August 2012 and Denmark Open in October the same year, Saina had nothing to display for 2013 in her trophy cabinet. The restlessness was more than evident in her cheerers-turned-critics than even in her. “I did not feel disappointed. I was injured and unfit to give my best. Still, I was able to maintain my world ranking between 4 and 9. I reached quarter finals of some tournaments and made it to the semi-finals of many,” points out the 24-year-old. Thankfully, 2014 didn’t prove to be as cruel as its predecessor. It started with a triumph at the India Open Grand Prix Gold and the title at Australian Open Super Series added to her confidence. “I am relieved” is how Saina describes her state of mind, the victories finally forcing the criticism to take a beating. “These wins gave me confidence. My speed in the game has increased. I am feeling fitter and faster this year and hence,
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Clockwise from left: Moment of triumph at a tournament, with her parents, with coach Pullela Gopichand during a felicitation ceremony
performing well. I am free of injuries and training well. These results encourage me to achieve more this year.” And with some big events lined up, Saina’s regained fitness and faith in herself is a sign of some more laurels coming her and the country’s way. Still, treading with caution is something she can’t let go of. She would ‘I was injured and unfit to rather think about one give my best. Still, I was challenge at a time than dwell able to maintain my world too far into the future. ranking between 4 and 9. “I am not thinking about I made it to the quarterproving any point to anyone. finals and semi-finals of The game will be played on many tournaments’ the courts. I am fit, free of injuries and healthy. I have no worries at present,” Saina says, assuring many that it is time even they should stop worrying. India’s little girl has surely grown up enough to take care of her actions and many other’s emotions as well.
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