#Its the indian education system unfortunately

[baesharmi-ki-height]

'elo, I shouldn't be interacting with you but here's a little secret I'm CBSE, and trust me the grass isn't greener on this side...

🫂🫂

[burst-of-iridescent]

South Asian and Hindu Influences in ATLA (Part 2)

disclaimer: i was raised culturally and religiously hindu, and though i've tried to do my research for this post and pair it with my own cultural knowledge, i'm not an expert on hinduism by any means. should i mess up, please let me know.

please also be aware that many of the concepts discussed in this post overlap heavily with religions such as buddhism and jainism, which might have different interpretations and representations. as i'm not from those religions or cultures, i don't want to speak on them, but if anyone with that knowledge wishes to add on, please feel free.

Part 1

In the previous post, I discussed some of the things ATLA got right in its depictions of desi and hindu cultures. unfortunately, they also got plenty of things wrong - often in ways that leaned towards racist caricatures - so let's break them down, starting with...

Guru Pathik

both the word "guru" and name "pathik" come from sanskrit. pathik means "traveler" or "he who knows the way" while guru is a term for a guide or mentor, similar to a teacher.

gurus were responsible for the very first education systems in ancient india, setting up institutions called gurukuls. students, referred to as disciples, would often spend years living with and learning from their gurus in these gurukuls, studying vedic and buddhist texts, philosophy, music and even martial arts.

however, their learning was not limited merely to academic study, as gurus were also responsible for guiding the spiritual evolution of their disciples. it was common for disciples to meditate, practice yoga, fast for days or weeks, and complete mundane household chores every day in order to instill them with self-discipline and help them achieve enlightenment and spiritual awareness. the relationship between a guru and his disciple was considered a sacred, holy bond, far exceeding that of a mere teacher and student.

aang's training with guru pathik mirrors some of these elements. similar to real gurus, pathik takes on the role of aang's spiritual mentor. he guides aang in unblocking his chakras and mastering the avatar state through meditation, fasting, and self-reflection - all of which are practices that would have likely been encouraged in disciples by their gurus.

pathik's design also takes inspiration from sadhus, holy men who renounced their worldly ties to follow a path of spiritual discipline. the guru's simple, nondescript clothing and hair are reflective of the ascetic lifestyle sadhus are expected to lead, giving up material belongings and desires in order to achieve spiritual enlightenment and, ultimately, liberation from the reincarnation cycle.

unfortunately, this is where the respectful references end because everything else about guru pathik was insensitive at best and stereotypical at worst.

it is extremely distasteful that the guru speaks with an overexaggerated indian accent, even though the iranian-indian actor who plays him has a naturally british accent. why not just hire an actual indian voice actor if the intention was to make pathik sound authentic? besides, i doubt authenticity was the sole intention, given that the purposeful distortion of indian accents was a common racist trope played for comedy in early 2000s children's media (see: phineas and ferb, diary of a wimpy kid, jessie... the list goes on).

furthermore, while pathik is presented a wise and respected figure within this episode, his next (and last) appearance in the show is entirely the opposite.

in the episode nightmares and daydreams, pathik appears in aang's nightmare with six hands, holding what appears to be a veena (a classical indian music instrument). this references the iconography of the hindu deity Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and knowledge. the embodiment of divine enlightenment, learning, insight and truth, Saraswati is a member of the Tridevi (the female version of the Trimurti), one of the most respected and revered goddesses in the Hindu pantheon... and her likeness is used for a cheap laugh on a character who's already treated as a caricature.

that's bad enough on its own, but when you consider that guru pathik is the only explicitly south asian coded character in the entire show, it's downright insulting. for a show that took so many of its foundational concepts from south asia and hinduism and yet provided almost no desi representation in return, this is just rubbing salt in the wound.

Chakras

"chakra", meaning "circle" or "wheel of life" in sanskrit, refers to sources of energy found in the human body. chakra points are aligned along the spine, with energy flowing from the lowest to the highest point. the energy pooled at the lowest chakra is called kundalini, and the aim is to release this energy to the highest chakra in order to achieve spiritual enlightenment and consciousness.

the number of chakras varies in different religions, with buddhism referencing five chakras while hinduism has seven. atla draws from the latter influence, so let's take a look at the seven chakras:

Muladhara (the Root Chakra). located at the base of the spine, this chakra deals with our basest instincts and is linked to the element of earth.

Swadhisthana (the Sacral Chakra). located just below the navel, this chakra deals with emotional intensity and pleasure and is linked to the element of water.

Manipura (the Solar Plexus Chakra). located in the stomach, this chakra deals with willpower and self-acceptance and is linked to the element of fire.

Anahata (the Heart Chakra). located in the heart, this chakra deals with love, compassion and forgiveness and is linked to the element of air. in the show, this chakra is blocked by aang's grief over the loss of the air nomads, which is a nice elemental allusion.

Vishudda (the Throat Chakra). located at the base of the throat, this chakra deals with communication and honesty and is linked to the fifth classical element of space. the show calls this the Sound Chakra, though i'm unsure where they got that from.

Ajna (the Third Eye Chakra). located in the centre of the forehead, this chakra deals with spirituality and insight and is also linked to the element of space. the show calls it the Light Chakra, which is fairly close.

Sahasrara (the Crown Chakra). located at the very top of the head, this chakra deals with pure cosmic consciousness and is also linked to the element of space. it makes perfect sense that this would be the final chakra aang has to unblock in order to connect with the avatar spirit, since the crown chakra is meant to be the point of communion with one's deepest, truest self.

the show follows these associations and descriptions almost verbatim, and does a good job linking the individual chakras to their associated struggles in aang's arc.

Cosmic Energy

the idea of chakras is associated with the concept of shakti, which refers to the life-giving energy that flows throughout the universe and within every individual.

the idea of shakti is a fundamentally unifying one, stating that all living beings are connected to one another and the universe through the cosmic energy that flows through us all. this philosophy is referenced both in the swamp episode and in guru pathik telling aang that the greatest illusion in the world is that of separation - after all, how can there be any real separation when every life is sustained by the same force?

this is also why aang needing to let go of katara did not, as he mistakenly assumed, mean he had to stop loving her. rather, the point of shedding earthly attachment is to allow one to become more attuned to shakti, both within oneself and others. ironically, in letting go of katara and allowing himself to commune with the divine energy of the universe instead, aang would have been more connected to her - not less.

The Avatar State

according to hinduism, there are five classical elements known as pancha bhuta that form the foundations of all creation: air, water, earth, fire, and space/atmosphere.

obviously, atla borrows this concept in making a world entirely based on the four classical elements. but looking at how the avatar spirit is portrayed as a giant version of aang suspended in mid-air, far above the earth, it's possible that this could reference the fifth liminal element of space as well.

admittedly this might be a bit of a reach, but personally i find it a neat piece of worldbuilding that could further explain the power of the avatar. compared to anyone else who might be able to master only one element, mastering all five means having control of every building block of the world. this would allow the avatar to be far more attuned to the spiritual energy within the universe - and themselves - as a result, setting in motion the endless cycle of death and rebirth that would connect their soul even across lifetimes.

[k4tisblog]

10 MEDIA DIARY: MLP:FiM & YAKYAKISTAN.

Hello! Hi! This post may be a bit of a ramble. I have watched all 9 seasons of My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic. It’s a comfort show, and has been very dear to me since I was a kid. While I love it to death, I want to point out its portrayal of race.

From the "Buffalo tribe" being analogous to Indigenous Americans (S1), to Rarity gentrifying an Indian Pony restaurant (S6), one could probably write an entire thesis about it. However, for everyone's sake, I'll focus on the episode "She's all Yak." (Season 9 Episode 7). Spoilers ahead, of course.

Introducing MLP:FiM A quick summary of the show thus far- Twilight Sparkle was a unicorn who earned the title of Princess of Friendship (and also wings). She couldn't have done it without her friends Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and last but not least, Rarity! The Mane 6 (that's a pun) have a reputation for saving the world (too many times to keep track). At the premiere of season 8, Twilight starts the very first School of Friendship! The point: to invite everypony everycreature to come and learn friendship. (There are implications here- but that's another discussion in and of itself.) The school's credibility is questionable, but they get through the trials and tribulations of the education system with the power of friendship!

Yakyakistan Let's just say things can go a bit off the rails when you invite different species into the My Little Pony cinematic universe. It didn't have to be bad. It really didn't.

Alas, the Yaks. They're from Yakyakistan. Speak "broken" English when no other species does. Being destructive is "crucial to their culture". Need I say more? It is not necessary to create this association to real-world regions using the suffix "-stan", for them to have "caveman-like” speech, for their "traditions" to be destructive tendencies. They are prideful and nationalistic to an unrational extent as well. Refusing cooperation with others, instead choosing to eat and sleep on snow comes to mind.

"However, despite Pinkie and the yaks' efforts, there is too much snow for them to dig through, and their forceful digging only causes more snow to fall from the mountain. Pinkie Pie offers to return to Ponyville and get help from her friends, but the proud Rutherford and his subjects refuse to accept help from ponies. Rutherford suggests simply waiting for the snow to melt, and he and his subjects resort to eating and sleeping on snow to survive. " (S7 Ep 11, MLP:FiM Wiki)

YONA: SHE'S ALL YAK As much as the Yaks were in poor taste (AT BEST), it was easy to avoid; they typically only existed in their own standalone episodes. Unfortunately, they keep appearing; Yona is chosen by Yakyakistan's Prince Rutherford to attend the School of Friendship. The main thing with the Yaks as characters is that their main "problems" in their episodes are the clash of their “savage” cultural norms vs. the “civilised” ponies.

Considering once again a clear association to real-life ethnic groups and these "cultural norms" enforcing real-world prejudice… Yeah, I do flinch every time a Yak plot is introduced. "She's All Yak" is an episode that I watched all the way through. I have things to say. Yona is asked by her (pony) friend Sandbar to join the Amity Ball and partake in the Pony Pals contest with him. Since the dance is traditionally pony-centric, she responds "But Yona yak. Yona not pony." Sandbar assures her that that doesn't matter and she accepts.

Now filled with a want to be the best Pony Pal, Yona sees Rarity stressing about Ball dresses and feels she has a lot to learn before the event. She turns to Rarity for guidance on what to wear, and how to act.

Rarity teaches Yona how to talk - shoving Brussels sprouts in her mouth to help annunciation.

Rarity: [elocuting] The weather is quite agreeable today. Yona: [muffled] The weather is quite agreeable today. [chews, gulps, belches loudly] Yona like Brussels sprouts! Rarity: Let's move on.

While Rarity looks through different dress options, Yona tells her she likes brown. Rarity expresses disgust at "earth tones," sticking her tongue out and calling them "earthy." She says not to worry; she'll find a dress to make Yona stand out! Yona says she doesn't want to stand out, but rather to fit in… Cue the musical number. "Once you learn the pony way you'll start to fit right in." Rarity sings while Yona gets transformation montage.

Yona's struggle in integrating into pony norms is turned comedic. It's exaggerated to the point of being downright unflattering. She's highlighted as dirty, clumsy, unfashionable, and, of course, destructive.

After a long while of Yona getting everything wrong, she manages to get things right! (She dances without causing earthquakes and speaks like a posh pony now.)

Yona’s ready to rumble.

THE AMITY BALL

Gallus: I'm just glad I'm here with you guys. Least I'm not the only non-pony in the crowd. Sandbar: You're not still worried about that, are you? Like Headmare Twilight said, this is a dance for everycreature. There's no pony pressure.

Yona's friends giggle at the contrast between Sandbars' statement and the sight of ridiculously-overponified-Yona.

They are all taken aback, and Sandbar looks concerned. He plays along with it; she did all this for him after all. The dances begin! Yona is excited, inviting Sandbar to dance. She dances well until she trips on her dress and takes a tumble. Regaining her composure, they move on to the Pony Prance. Yona’s wig temporarily obscures her vision and she freaks out. Stampeding through the Ball, she ends up hurting everyone and destroying everything in her path. Inconsolable, Yona runs off in tears.

"Yona disappoint Sandbar. Yona not make very good pony." Sandbar finds Yona and they have a heart to heart.

Yona: Yona just want to do all the right pony things and fit in at dance! Then maybe Sandbar and Yona win best pony pals contest. Instead, Yona win worst pony ever.[crunch] Sandbar: That's not true. (...) Sandbar: Yona, it doesn't really matter if you're a great pony or a horrible pony. You're the best Yona I know. That's why I asked you to the dance.

I don't have an issue with the message this episode is trying to convey. It's an obvious trajectory towards being yourself; you don't have to change for anyone - I appreciate the representation of this in Sandbar and Yona's relationship.

We get a sincere apology from the Mane 6, admitting that it was no fault of Yona's but rather their fault for unknowingly forcing her to be something she was not. Yona and Sandbar are given the winning trophy for the Pony Pal competition!

Spike then exclaims that "everypony wants to learn that crazy dance [Yona] did." She teaches them all the "Yakyakistan Stomp." They all start to dance as the camera shakes and the credits roll.

How do you feel about the use of the word “crazy”? CONCLUSIONS As much as I understand the intent, I can't ignore the root of Yona's character. From her personality traits to her place of origin... There are too many implications. I've scavenged for online articles, forums, etc. for opinions on My Little Pony’s Yaks, but it's proving to be a bit of a niche topic. Only in conversation have I heard of people who share my concerns or even acknowledge them. A friend of my girlfriend's posted about this on Reddit once, as I have come to learn, but was shot down by negative responses and disagreements. I suspect the difference in the main fanbases for MLP are a factor.

(I might go into this more in a future blog post - let’s just say that humanified fanart now is more diverse compared to a decade ago.) These comments I found while scrolling through the MLP:FiM wiki piqued my interest. While a fine assessment of the episode at large - the descriptions of Yak culture further prove my point. Just choosing to describe Yakyakistan culture with the word "simple" says a lot.

User Angel Emfrbl's "not that bad" feels like we're settling for "it could be worse. It all makes sense with the current characterizations." I want more people to want to dig deeper into what it all represents. There is a lack of acknowledgment of the root of the Yaks’ existence - their designs, plots, and worldviews.

The unflattering portrayal of Yaks being destructive and completely un-ponylike feels dehumanizing (deponifying?). There ARE ponies that are portrayed as Indian and East Asian. Even the Kirin species closely resemble ponies (just sporting different manes, horns, and tails.) If I'd even go out on a limb and hypothetically say the Dragons are implied to be Europeans (since they based on traditional European dragons), who could be hurt by being compared to a dragon? It certainly gets complicated to explore not only racial implications between ponies, but entire different species. Nonetheless, there is a heavy responsibility to check in with those who experience real-world discrimination before using it as plot points. At the end of the day - Personal biases must be checked, especially when writing for children's media. Hm. Thoughts?

Comments? Concerns?

Otherwise, have a good evening!

[everything-is-crab]

:))

This is what I meant when I said both rightoids and liberals in India are equally dumb as fuck. Both are pro imperialists. She's not even lower caste and yet she's speaking on behalf of us. I have seen this trend in a lot of "anticasteist" upper caste women (who unfortunately have more voices than people like me, actually women from oppressed castes).

How are these people different from the white supremacists who say brown people are intellectually and socially inferior?

"At least the goras let us have meat" oh okay we're gonna ignore the 3 million lives lost in Bengal famine caused by Churchill's policies (after which he blamed it on us instead of his own greediness). Did he let those people eat meat then? Unhinged shit. They wouldn't let people fill their bellies cause sometimes instead of food crops they wanted our ancestors to grow cotton, indigo, spices, tea. Which also left areas prone to land disasters. Commercial stuff that they could sell at much cheaper prices in their own countries and others in the Western world as well. Also levied extremely unreasonably high taxes. Leaving us with no money. Delusional world these middle/upper class liberals live in where the British let us have meat. They didn't even let us have rice.

The British protected the caste system. Read Sharmila Rege's work about how the British introduced the process of "Brahmanisation" in colonial India.

This is the exact thing Hindu nationalists are doing rn! And have been doing forever! Protecting Western imperialists! Why do you think Modi is bootlicking the US so much? Do you think the farmers' protests and the after effects of globalization after 1991 are disconnected from Western imperialism?

Just because nationalists claim to be against white dominance doesn't mean they practice what they preach.

And this folks is why you need to incorporate class and gender in your analysis and not read about the work of only the middle class men of a community :)

Women and poor people matter too.

But unfortunately many earlier anti caste activists who were middle or upper class were anti Marxists and only later few like the Dalit Panthers and R.B More realized the importance of Marxist analysis for understanding modern caste based oppression more. Yes many Indian Marxists ignored casteism. But that does not mean we must dispose it as a useless theory.

But who tf cares about the Dalit Panthers or anyone else? Have you even heard of any other names that aren't Phule or Ambedka? Everyone followed and still follow people like Periyar, Ambedkar, Phule who were all from relatively well off family. And why will people who uncritically follow these people not think colonization was as bad? All of them attended British school and went for higher studies as well. The British was staunchly anti communist. They constantly resisted communist activists in colonial India. This is a privilege even today many people from oppressed castes cannot enjoy.

I have seen all these upper caste women, ignore people like me pointing this out. They think we're against education of oppressed castes (why would I advocate that for my own community?). But rather we take issue to these men ignoring their economic and male privilege and speaking on behalf of all of us.

A reminder that Periyar criminalized devadasis and read Ambedkar's arguments against Hindutva solutions to the Partition (hint: he cared more about the money that could be wasted in missionaries rather than the violence and human rights and unironically called Muslim people "tyrannical" and referred to "Muslim oppression" on Hindus). He was anti casteist, but he was Islamophobic.

To avoid with this kind of thinking, follow Dalit feminist theory. Dalit femininism from its inception has been pro Marxist (cause women make most of poor here). And they explain the effects of colonization on lower caste women (how the British introduced evidence act, a law that justified rape against lower caste women and let me remind you gang rape of lower caste women by upper caste men is a national issue. Ex the Manipur case, the rape of Phoolan Devi, the Hathras case etc). And how dowry (that earlier used to be a practice mainly amongst upper castes was now becoming dominant in lower castes as well due to capitalization of economy during colonial era). Maybe then you will understand why the British abolished sati but not any temple prostitution or other issues faced exclusively by women from oppressed castes. In fact they called upper caste women those who deserve to be protected but lower caste women were inherently deviant in their justification. But please go ahead and argue how imperialism brings "good things" sometimes.

Just read about caste reformation during colonial era. The choice isn't between hindutva and colonial era. The choice is between hindutva and hindutva along with colonial rule. Why do most liberals pretend the British never favored the Brahmins over everybody else?

White supremacy is so much better than Hindu supremacy for women of lower castes am I right guys?

This is so much better?

Also reminded of the "breast cloth" controversy. Do not mistake that anti caste activism is always anti caste for both Dalit men and women. Sometimes it favors Dalit men. And oppresses Dalit women further. Cause usually the colonizers never cared about oppressed castes but when they did, it was only for the men.

Ik many upper caste Marxists are not good at anti caste politics but I cannot separate Marxism from my anti caste or feminist politics. And as a Marxist from a formerly colonized country, I cannot ignore the imperial divide between the West (that is white dominated) and the global south (that includes India). You cannot separate the conditions of brown and black people today in the global south from the past dynamics of the colonizer and the colonized.

Lower caste women are obviously very poor. The poorest of all with least social protection. These upper caste women can sit on their asses and write papers and blogs on how much white supremacy was much cooler. But the ones from oppressed castes and working class? They don't have this privilege. They have the same burden of upper caste women related to marriage and domestic work and everything. But on top of that they have to do labor as well. And after globalization, when condition of "blue collar jobs" degraded (wages lowered, subsidies cut, worker protection rights gone etc) , the percentage of women in these fields increased. That's not a coincidence. Men always force women into lower earning occupations that have little job security. I am not gonna ignore this.

Fuck Hindutva. But fuck white supremacy too. For me neither is better. Both go hand in hand in fact. Look at the Hindu nationalists in France allying with white supremacists over shared conservative interests.

[novinare]

(tw for period typical racism)

Despite being exceptionally bright and hard working, Alastor's formal education was difficult, and hindered by the systemic racial laws of early 1900s Louisiana.

He thrived academically in elementary school, though being small and wearing glasses made him a target for bullies. He attended a school for 'coloured children', which promised to offer the same quality education as a caucasian school.

At the time, only elementary school was mandatory in the state, but Alastor was ambitious, and had his eyes on Baton Rouge Colored High School-- the first of its kind in the state, which opened when he was 13.

Even if university was impossible, he could finish high school.

For three years, Alastor and his mother did everything in their power to get him to school in Baton Rouge each day. Their friends gave him rides when they could, and several nights he ended up sleeping at the school, when there was no way for him to get home.

His attendance suffered, and so did his grades; and despite his teachers speaking on his behalf, it was eventually decided that it simply wasn't working.

So at 16, Alastor left school, having made it a few years passed most, and began to work at the radio station.

The rest, as they say, is history.

(Technically the private Xavier Catholic school ("Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament for Indians and Colored People, of Louisiana,") began accepting high school students on a limited program when Alastor was 15, and a full 4 year program when he was 22. It opened to university students when he was 25. Had he been a few years younger, things might have gone differently-- unfortunately, that wasn't the case.)

[oklahomahistory]

No-Win Situation

No-Win Situation  If the Natives’ differences with white American culture and history caused problems for them, however, so did their herculean attempts to remedy that problem by acculturating themselves to the swelling United States. Large segments of several prominent southeastern Indian tribes attempted to master the ways of European and American culture, just as early American leaders such as George Washington encouraged them to do. These five tribes—the Cherokees, Chickasaws, Choctaws, Creeks, and Seminoles-gained the sobriquet of the “Five Civilized Tribes" due to their strong acceptance of most of the key tenets. of an American civilization that, by most objective measurements, was succeeding, growing, and thriving far beyond their own. These tenets included its Christian religion, classical Western educational system, social culture, political institutions, and agrarian and other business practices. Famed Oklahoma historian Angie Debo cited the usefulness of the Five Civilized Tribes designation “to distinguish them from their wild neighbors of the plains.” Historian Arrell M. Gibson contrasted the powerful impact of one tribe’s mounting mixed-blood population-birthed of enterprising white fathers (Scots, Scots-Irish, Irish, English, French, etc.) and Indian mothers—with full bloods who retained old ways and associations: The mixed-bloods (among the tribes), more like their fathers than their mothers, came to adopt an advanced way of living. They developed vast estates, ranches, and businesses in the Cherokee Nation, and became slaveholders. The full bloods continued to live in log cabins, cultivated only a subsistence patch of food crops, raised horses, excelled in the old tribal crafts of hunting, fishing, a life close to nature, and now and then joined a war party for a raid on the encroaching American settlements. But many of those American settlers, including Georgians furious over the federal government’s failure to uphold its end of the Compact of 1802, feared that the Cherokees were growing too “civilized.” Why? The Georgians envisioned a large permanent-and sovereign-Indian enclave in the northwest corner of the state. They also worried that Cherokee roads, tolls, and ferries operating beyond the constraints of Georgian laws and regulations would hamper commerce with other states. Also, the tribal chiefs’ reluctance to improve the nation’s roads angered Georgian leaders. Plus, as earlier mentioned, the federal government had assured the state of the soon departure of the Cherokees. Unfortunately, the tribe itself had no part in that agreement, so they had no intention of fulfilling it. The Chickasaws, Choctaws, Creeks, and Seminoles faced similar indifference or hostility to their efforts at “civilizing.” Whether practicing the old ways or the new, the realization grew among the tribes that they could not win if they remained east of the Mississippi River, no matter what course they pursued. Arkansas Territory in its original form and with two sections split off to form Indian Territory. Read the entire Oklahoma story in John J. Dwyer’s The Oklahomans: The Story of Oklahoma and Its People volume 1 of a 2-part series on the 46th state and the people who make this state very special.

[kikimaymay]

So I just finished reading"Killers of the Flower Moon", which I very very highly recommend. As a very rare non-fiction reader, I was constantly torn between captivated and absolutely disgusted and furious with the entire situation--including the lack of information about it in the US educational system and general public. Quick aside-- this isn't our fault, it's very intentional, as it becomes increasingly obvious throughout the book.

ANYWAY, weird coincidence, I'm *finally* watching the X-Files (wanted something spooky lite? Boy have I made a mistake) and ended up on an episode that mentions the 1973 Wounded Knee Occupation. Okay, interesting, gonna google it.

First hit?

Alright, this immediately smells weird. Especially this, in only the THIRD paragraph.

"Two Indians would also unfortunately be killed." Its a fucking afterthought, but god forbid the US Marshals spend a few weeks away from their family. You know, just doing their fucking jobs.

The stark difference between the .GOV website and Wikipedia should make us all angry. Yes, we're continually learning more about the US Government lists of (still ongoing!) atrocities against indigenous Americans, but they're all still actively trying to make the federal government look like the good lawful boys and girls always on the side of the Right.

It's so fucking infuriating, and maybe it doesn't feel like we can do anything (besides participating in our local government please vote) but I feel like even sharing this misleading/straight up misinformation is really important. I don't know. But I hope.

[news365timesindia]

[ad_1] The Indian education system stands at a critical juncture. With 1 in 5 students suffering from some Mental health issue, we need to consider it nothing less than a pandemic. While the country has made remarkable progress in expanding access to education with more than 30,000 colleges and 1000+ universities, a deeper examination of classroom dynamics reveals persistent flaws that demand urgent reform. Our current approach to education often prioritizes rote learning, exam-based assessments, and outdated teaching methodologies, leading to increased mental health issues among students. It is time we shift our focus toward a more holistic, skill-based, and student-centric learning environment in the classrooms of our institutions.   Dr Dhruv Galgotia speaks at the QS India Summit 2025 A System Stuck in the Past Despite rapid advancements in technology and pedagogy worldwide, Indian classrooms remain largely unchanged. Traditional lecture-based teaching continues to dominate, leaving little room for creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. This rigid approach not only stifles student engagement but also places immense psychological pressure on young minds, contributing to anxiety, burnout, and, in extreme cases, tragic instances of student suicides.The days of giving a monologue by a faculty to unattentively bored and dis-interested students should have been over years back. Mental Health Pandemic in Higher Education The mental well-being of students has become a growing concern in India’s higher education institutions. The relentless pressure to excel in competitive exams, the stigma associated with failure, and the absence of structured mental health support create an environment where students struggle in silence. Unfortunately, whatever efforts are being made to address these issues are reactionary rather than preventative. We tend to respond only after crises occur, instead of implementing proactive strategies to nurture students' emotional resilience and well-being from an early stage. Breaking Free from Rote Learning: Time to Bring in AI in classrooms One of the most damaging aspects of our education system is its over-reliance on rote memorization. Instead of fostering curiosity and innovation, students are trained to memorize and reproduce information without truly understanding concepts. This not only diminishes their ability to apply knowledge in real-world scenarios but also suppresses independent thinking. To build a workforce ready for the challenges of the 21st century, we must encourage active learning, critical analysis, and experiential education. Infact, we have made the investments at Galgotias university to make it a point that old lecture style classrooms are done away with to a large extent and made almost all classrooms collaborative and technology enabled to ensure teaching is done to enhance the retention of our learners. The Need for Preventative Measures in Mental Health The current model of mental health intervention in universities is largely post-mortem-action is taken only after visible distress signals emerge. This approach fails to address the root causes of stress, such as academic pressure, social isolation, and unrealistic expectations. Universities must integrate mental wellness programs into their curriculum, provide easy access to counselling services, and normalize conversations around mental health.The need for strong mental health support on campuses with well trained counsellors is one of the most critical needs in higher education institutions. Galgotias has established a mental wellness centre in partnership with HCL healthcare to ensure students get personalised attention with scientific technology enabled follow-ups in due course as needed by students, faculties and parents both on and off the campus. Active Learning at Galgotias University: Student Centered Ecosystem Galgotias University has taken significant strides toward implementing active learning to revolutionize education.

By launching G-SCALE ( Galgotias student centered active learning ecosystem) and incorporating interactive teaching techniques such as Think-Pair Share, Scaffolding, Jigsaw, Simulations, problem-based learning, Case-study techniques  and hands-on projects, students are engaged in a more dynamic and participative learning process. The university has also pioneered India’s first active learning building, designed to foster collaboration, creativity, and real-world problem-solving skills. This initiative places Galgotias University at the forefront of modern educational reform, ensuring that students not only acquire knowledge but also develop critical thinking and practical skills essential for their future careers. A Shift Toward Student-Centric Learning To truly reform our education system, we must move toward a student-centric model that prioritizes engagement, curiosity, and well-being. This can be achieved through: Lower failure rates: Better conceptual understanding, reduced failure rates, strengthened social relationships, and better absorption of knowledge leading to academic achievement for students who would have been predicted not to have performed well. Personalized Education: Using technology to tailor learning experiences to individual student needs. Skill Development: Encouraging practical skill-building over rote memorization to prepare students for real-world challenges. Mental Health Integration: Embedding emotional well-being initiatives within academic frameworks to ensure students receive the support they need. Industry-Academia Collaboration: Bridging the gap between classroom education and professional realities to enhance employability. A Call for Change The time to rethink India’s education system is now. We must acknowledge that the traditional methods of teaching and assessment are no longer sufficient in preparing students for the future. By embracing progressive educational reforms, fostering a culture of mental wellness, and making learning more meaningful, we can create an education system that truly empowers students to thrive in all aspects of life. Change begins with a willingness to challenge outdated norms. As educators, policymakers, and stakeholders, we have a collective responsibility to ensure that every student in India receives an education that not only imparts knowledge but also nurtures their mental and emotional well-being. Only then can we truly unlock the potential of our youth and drive India toward a brighter future. About the author : Dr. Dhruv Galgotia is the CEO of Galgotias University and recently spoke at the QS India Summit on Mental health in Indian Institutions held in Goa. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window,document,'script', 'https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); fbq('init', '311356416665414'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); [ad_2] Source link

[news365times]

[ad_1] The Indian education system stands at a critical juncture. With 1 in 5 students suffering from some Mental health issue, we need to consider it nothing less than a pandemic. While the country has made remarkable progress in expanding access to education with more than 30,000 colleges and 1000+ universities, a deeper examination of classroom dynamics reveals persistent flaws that demand urgent reform. Our current approach to education often prioritizes rote learning, exam-based assessments, and outdated teaching methodologies, leading to increased mental health issues among students. It is time we shift our focus toward a more holistic, skill-based, and student-centric learning environment in the classrooms of our institutions.   Dr Dhruv Galgotia speaks at the QS India Summit 2025 A System Stuck in the Past Despite rapid advancements in technology and pedagogy worldwide, Indian classrooms remain largely unchanged. Traditional lecture-based teaching continues to dominate, leaving little room for creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. This rigid approach not only stifles student engagement but also places immense psychological pressure on young minds, contributing to anxiety, burnout, and, in extreme cases, tragic instances of student suicides.The days of giving a monologue by a faculty to unattentively bored and dis-interested students should have been over years back. Mental Health Pandemic in Higher Education The mental well-being of students has become a growing concern in India’s higher education institutions. The relentless pressure to excel in competitive exams, the stigma associated with failure, and the absence of structured mental health support create an environment where students struggle in silence. Unfortunately, whatever efforts are being made to address these issues are reactionary rather than preventative. We tend to respond only after crises occur, instead of implementing proactive strategies to nurture students' emotional resilience and well-being from an early stage. Breaking Free from Rote Learning: Time to Bring in AI in classrooms One of the most damaging aspects of our education system is its over-reliance on rote memorization. Instead of fostering curiosity and innovation, students are trained to memorize and reproduce information without truly understanding concepts. This not only diminishes their ability to apply knowledge in real-world scenarios but also suppresses independent thinking. To build a workforce ready for the challenges of the 21st century, we must encourage active learning, critical analysis, and experiential education. Infact, we have made the investments at Galgotias university to make it a point that old lecture style classrooms are done away with to a large extent and made almost all classrooms collaborative and technology enabled to ensure teaching is done to enhance the retention of our learners. The Need for Preventative Measures in Mental Health The current model of mental health intervention in universities is largely post-mortem-action is taken only after visible distress signals emerge. This approach fails to address the root causes of stress, such as academic pressure, social isolation, and unrealistic expectations. Universities must integrate mental wellness programs into their curriculum, provide easy access to counselling services, and normalize conversations around mental health.The need for strong mental health support on campuses with well trained counsellors is one of the most critical needs in higher education institutions. Galgotias has established a mental wellness centre in partnership with HCL healthcare to ensure students get personalised attention with scientific technology enabled follow-ups in due course as needed by students, faculties and parents both on and off the campus. Active Learning at Galgotias University: Student Centered Ecosystem Galgotias University has taken significant strides toward implementing active learning to revolutionize education.

By launching G-SCALE ( Galgotias student centered active learning ecosystem) and incorporating interactive teaching techniques such as Think-Pair Share, Scaffolding, Jigsaw, Simulations, problem-based learning, Case-study techniques  and hands-on projects, students are engaged in a more dynamic and participative learning process. The university has also pioneered India’s first active learning building, designed to foster collaboration, creativity, and real-world problem-solving skills. This initiative places Galgotias University at the forefront of modern educational reform, ensuring that students not only acquire knowledge but also develop critical thinking and practical skills essential for their future careers. A Shift Toward Student-Centric Learning To truly reform our education system, we must move toward a student-centric model that prioritizes engagement, curiosity, and well-being. This can be achieved through: Lower failure rates: Better conceptual understanding, reduced failure rates, strengthened social relationships, and better absorption of knowledge leading to academic achievement for students who would have been predicted not to have performed well. Personalized Education: Using technology to tailor learning experiences to individual student needs. Skill Development: Encouraging practical skill-building over rote memorization to prepare students for real-world challenges. Mental Health Integration: Embedding emotional well-being initiatives within academic frameworks to ensure students receive the support they need. Industry-Academia Collaboration: Bridging the gap between classroom education and professional realities to enhance employability. A Call for Change The time to rethink India’s education system is now. We must acknowledge that the traditional methods of teaching and assessment are no longer sufficient in preparing students for the future. By embracing progressive educational reforms, fostering a culture of mental wellness, and making learning more meaningful, we can create an education system that truly empowers students to thrive in all aspects of life. Change begins with a willingness to challenge outdated norms. As educators, policymakers, and stakeholders, we have a collective responsibility to ensure that every student in India receives an education that not only imparts knowledge but also nurtures their mental and emotional well-being. Only then can we truly unlock the potential of our youth and drive India toward a brighter future. About the author : Dr. Dhruv Galgotia is the CEO of Galgotias University and recently spoke at the QS India Summit on Mental health in Indian Institutions held in Goa. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window,document,'script', 'https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); fbq('init', '311356416665414'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); [ad_2] Source link

[msbutterfly5294]

This was a speech I wrote in high school . For context , I was regarded highly in school for Native American activism . Because of this , the school and I worked together to create an assembly to celebrate Native American Heritage Month . Unfortunately , this speech never made it to public ( at least on tumblr ) but now I am ready to share it here .

TWs : Police brutality , mentions of death , mentions of suicidal ideation / actions , statistics of horrible things

<<< * >>>

Topic : Native American Heritage Month Speech ~ Written In November 2020

When I was telling people that I was putting together the Native American Assembly, they told me “Oh, that would be fun to see!” … I know they were trying to be nice and would like to see it, but it made me stressed. Because I didn’t want to make this assembly just for something for you to watch, or for you to be joking around about, or waste your time and take you out of class for nothing. I want everyone here at < insert high school > to take something away from this. This is only the tip of the iceberg. This is a side of history that isn’t shared or thoroughly taught enough in the U.S. schooling system. It is something that is suppressed and even hidden from Americans. And that is the Native American’s side of history. I have been fighting for this assembly or something to show appreciation towards our fellow Native students or Native people ever since my freshman year. And now… I have the opportunity to educate people on something they may not have been able to see before. I am not here to throw rocks at you, or blame you for what has happened. The past is past and decisions and actions have been made. Instead, I am here to share my people’s side of the story, invite people to learn about the society that was here before America was a thought, and even spread the light and awareness of my culture and its people. So, sit back, be respectful please, and be open-minded to learning something that you may not have known before.

What is the definition of race? It means the grouping of humans based on shared physical or social qualities into categories generally viewed as distinct by society. Race is dividing the one race that we are… The human race. We are all of the same species, yet when we see a person or culture different from our own we separate them from the culture that you are and the beliefs you hold. Because they are a different set of people from your society. We live in a world where diversity is everywhere. Where here in the United States, you can find just about any culture. People have migrated over from their homeland to come into a new world. But some people stay in their homeland. They are called Ingenious or native people. The Native Americans here in the United States have had a tragic yet empowering history. Despite all the hardships we've faced, we are still here. And we are going to continue to stay. I have had people tell my fellow brothers and sisters to “go back to where you came from”, when we never left our homeland in the first place.

We have come a long way from the past. But there are still some things that need our help and support. When people picture an Indigenous person, what do they see? Most likely, a Native person wearing a head-dress or who has a feather in their hair, brown or red-skinned, braids, big nose, defined cheekbones, and eyes squinting. Possibly surrounded by animals, riding a horse and hunting buffalo, in a teepee, casinos, dreamcatchers, "Indian print", reservations, white sage, etc. But what is wrong with this, is that everything mentioned is stereotypical and even used in a way that it is cultural appropriation. We are human, but held to a different level of recognition and human decency. We are looked down upon because of our brown skin. We are humiliated because of our long braids and our traditions. We are not treated equally because we are "stuck in the old ways". We are mocked and degraded because we were the losing side of history. I am not saying that people should pity the Native people, but rather observe and take time out of your day to educate yourself and appreciate what was the land and culture that was here before America.

October 15th, 2012, Millard County Police Officer, Dale Josse, shot and killed Corey Dee Kanosh. An native man who lived in the Kanosh Reservation. He was unarmed. Corey Kanosh was my uncle, who felt more like a father figure to me than a brother to my mother. I have been struggling with his death still to this day. Shortly after his death, I went to protests, fighting for Native Lives Matter and Black Lives Matter. Being in these protests and doing some research myself made me realise how much injustice and inequality there is among people of color. Even with enough time and educating myself on the history of my people, and other cultures of the world, I still have a lot more to learn. But I am teaching as many people as I can on what I know to help them acknowledge something too.

18 million… There were 18 million Native Americans that lived here before “the discovery” of America. 12 million... 12 million Native Americans were killed between 1492 and 1900. That was just 100 years ago. And there are still Indigenous people that are being killed today. The rate of assault or homicide among Indigenous Americans is more than double the rate for the country as a whole among all races, Natives having 11.4%, while all races have a rate of 5.4%. Native Americans are more likely to experience violent crimes at a rate of two and a half times higher than the national average, and in comparison to all other racial/ethnic groups, they are two times more likely to experience rape or sexual assault crimes. 84.3% of Indigenous women, or four in five, will experience violence in their lifetime. In addition, 56.1% of Native women have experience sexual violence in their life. Native Americans are killed in police encounters at a higher rate than any other racial or ethnic group, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Native communities experience higher rates of suicide compared to all other racial/ethnic groups in the U.S. For Native youth ages 10 to 24, suicide is the second leading cause of death; and the Native youth suicide rate is 2.5 times higher than the overall national average, making these rates the highest across all racial/ethenic group. The pattern that repeats is: “more likely” and “higher than all other racial groups”. William S. Burroughs said, “The way to kill a man or a nation is to cut off his dreams, the way the whites are taking care of the Indians: killing their dreams, their magic, their familiar spirits.” It is shown throughout history that some societies conquer others. The losing side is forced to leave behind their traditions, their way of living, and sometimes their families. It is a known fact that the settlers here had intentions of terminating the whole Native culture. Making boarding schools that kidnapped the Indigenous children from their families and placed them in a world where they couldn’t be themselves.

We make history everyday, every minute, with every decision, whether we know it or not. We learn history in school, as to learn about how we got into this point in time and to learn from what our ancestors did. What you do will have an effect or consequence, each and every time. We are treated like an image, a memory, but we are still here, we are human too; with values, a history, and a beating heart. When the Redmen mascot debate happened here in < insert city >, I was actively a part of it. At one of the debates, I had a sign that said something along the lines of “We fought for our culture. We are not your mascot!”. A woman told everyone in the room, “Do they even know what their people were fighting for?” And that made me upset. Just like the men and women that go into the military to fight for their country, each and every one of my brothers and sisters did the same. We have been fighting for our heritage, our language, our women and children, our future, our traditions, our basic human rights and decency for a very long time. And sadly, it is still going on to this day. People fight against racism but they aren’t fighting for me. I acknowledge that I wasn't there fighting soldiers physically back then, but that doesn't mean we are not affected by the genocidal history of our fallen ancestors. As I said before, my uncle’s death, and every relative of mine that has been discriminated against, made me open my eyes to the prejudice against Native Americans. It made me dive deeper in my culture. It made me realise that, Native Americans are treated like a joke because we were the ones to lose. This is why I have brought you all together, to have this assembly, to speak out about what is going on here. My heritage has been skimmed over, overlooked, and not from my side. When people first learn about Native Americans is in elementary school. They talk about Thanksgiving, and how the Native Americans and settlers got along and everything was happy-go-lucky. But as they grow older, the history of America isn't all good as it seems. Middle school and high school happens and they begin to recognise that the settlers that came here, weren’t all that fair and nice to the Indigenous people… What I noticed in every history class I’ve had, is that the Native American Unit is about two days to a week long. That isn’t very long to discuss the different varieties of Indigenous tribes, their way of living, their interactions with each other and the settlers, or cultural appropriation and stereotypes. Every history class I’ve had, was teaching Native history from the settler’s side, never the Native’s side. Funny how that works, correct?

We make history every day, every minute, every encounter, every decision, every word… The history I will make is that the accurate information about Indigenous people will be taught in school. The history I will make is to invite people of all races and backgrounds to be more educated about Native Americans. The history I will make is that my people will get the justice and equality we deserve. I will continue to stand up for those who can't, fight for equality, fight against what is wrong, and speak out about these things because no one has done it or is going to do it, so I will be the one to open your eyes just a bit more.

[rosswarner-human-resource]

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring IT & Construction Candidates from India

African businesses are experiencing rapid growth, fuelled by economic expansion and increased globalisation. This growth has created a huge demand for skilled talent to support operations across various industries. Unfortunately, Africa often faces a shortage of qualified professionals due to factors such as poor education infrastructure, limited access to training, and high rates of emigration.

India, with its vast pool of talented individuals and strong educational institutions, presents itself as an attractive source of skilled labour for African companies. However, navigating the Indian job market and hiring candidates from a different cultural context can be challenging. Many companies make common mistakes that can lead to unsuccessful hires and costly setbacks. This is where job consultants for Africa in India can help.

How?

Let's find out! 

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Indian Talent

Cultural Misunderstandings

One of the most common mistakes made by African companies when hiring Indian talent is overlooking cultural differences. Indian culture is rich and diverse, with unique customs, values, and communication styles. It is crucial to understand these differences to avoid misunderstandings and ensure effective collaboration. For example, Indian culture places a high value on hierarchy and respect for elders, which may influence communication styles and decision-making processes.

Skill Gap and Qualifications

Assessing candidates' skills and qualifications is essential when hiring Indian talent. While India has a large pool of skilled professionals, it is important to verify their educational credentials and experience. Additionally, it is crucial to consider the relevance of Indian qualifications to African standards, as there may be differences in educational systems and industry practices.

Salary Expectations and Cost of Living

Understanding Indian salary expectations and the cost of living in India compared to Africa is crucial for negotiating fair compensation packages. While Indian salaries may be lower than those in some African countries, it is important to consider factors such as the cost of living, inflation, and the overall standard of living in India. Failure to adequately address salary expectations can lead to dissatisfaction and attrition.

Visa and Immigration Processes

Navigating the Indian visa application process and understanding the work permit requirements in Africa can be complex and time-consuming. Delays and challenges can arise due to bureaucratic procedures, documentation requirements, and changes in immigration policies. It is essential to work with experienced immigration consultants to ensure a smooth and efficient process.

Language Barriers

Language barriers can pose significant challenges in cross-cultural collaborations. While many Indian professionals are proficient in English, it is important to assess their language skills to ensure effective communication. If necessary, consider providing language training or support to bridge the language gap and facilitate collaboration.

Best Practices for Successful Hiring

Partnering with Reputable Recruitment Agencies

One of the most effective ways to ensure successful hiring from India is to partner with reputable recruitment agencies. These top IT recruitment companies in India have deep knowledge of the Indian job market, access to a wide network of candidates, and expertise in navigating the recruitment process. By working with job consultants for Africa in India, you can streamline the hiring process, identify top talent, and reduce the risk of cultural misunderstandings.

Conducting Thorough Interviews and Assessments

Conducting thorough interviews and assessments is essential for evaluating candidates' skills, experience, and cultural fit. IT & construction recruitment agencies in India can provide valuable support in this aspect by utilising their expertise in conducting interviews and assessments to ensure that only the most qualified candidates are presented to the hiring company. Additionally, these agencies can also assist in coordinating and scheduling interviews, saving time and effort for the hiring team.

Providing Clear Expectations and Support

Providing clear expectations and support is essential for ensuring successful integration and performance. Develop detailed job descriptions that outline responsibilities, performance expectations, and company culture. Construction and IT recruitment agencies in India help employers provide clear expectations to potential candidates, increasing the likelihood of finding the right fit for the position. By offering support throughout the recruitment process, these agencies can also help ensure a smooth transition for new hires into their roles within the company.

Conclusion

Navigating the Indian job market and hiring candidates from a different cultural context can be challenging for African businesses. By understanding common mistakes and implementing best practices, companies can increase their chances of successful hires. Partnering with reputable recruitment agencies like Ross Warner HR Solutions can provide invaluable support in navigating the Indian recruitment landscape, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.

[nocorruptionnohatebepositive]

love no hate

We should love our language, culture & faith.

We should not give up one love for other love, we should not love one & hate  other

We should not indulge in hate & violence against other peaceful neighbors. Social, political, community leaders should try to suggest middle path & SOLVE PROBLEMS, they should not too much highlight the differences & hate diverse thoughts. They should not stress that one community alone has life-death issues & other social groups are not important

Africa, South America & Australia lost its free sprit & culture, now they follow European culture.

Japan Korea China have their own culture, they don’t fight too many wars.    But Africans  & South American have violent armed rebels & mafia,  they not progressing because they have lost their culture & brotherhood

How Portuguese and other European conquerers made thousands of Indians, Africans, Brazilians as slaves (to SUPPRESS them as bonded LABOUR &  stress racial and cultural superiority)👇🏻

👇🏻

"although slavery was a worldwide institution for thousands of years, nowhere in the world was slavery a controversial issue prior to the 18th century. People of every race and color were enslaved – and enslaved others.

White people were still being bought and sold as slaves in the Ottoman Empire, decades after American blacks were freed.

Everyone hated the idea of being a slave but few had any qualms about enslaving others. Slavery was just not an issue, not even among intellectuals, much less among political leaders, until the 18th century – and then it was an issue only in Western civilization."

Only after INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION in Europe people in there started UNIVERSAL EDUCATION so that they get EDUCATED / SKILLED LABOUR . Before that most societies in the world kept the poor uneducated and socially backward

Slavery exploitation is an evil which has been prevalent from ancient times in most of the societies

👇🏻

Jews have literature / documents to show how they were enslaved by Egyptians and Babylonians

Slavery, Exploitation very prevalent evil of most societies in ancient times.  The purpose  appears to  ensure people of certain races/ classes are  kept as BONDED LABOUR from birth 👇🏻

Clearly caste-JATI system followed in India was an In-human behaviour of exploitation and suppression of people for using them as Labour.   

Now  It is the duty of more rich and PRIVILEGED to help poor and socially vulnerable people and ensure mutual respect and equality in society. 

The ancient concept of all “VARNA” was misused to create unjust division of labour, the fact that varna only means human behaviour pattern - WITHOUT ANY LINK TO CASTE OR FAMILY OF BIRTH  was misinterpreted and the fact that  “ All varnas lead to me (Krishna)” was suppressed .  Four children of same parents can follow the behaviour pattern of four different varnas, appeared to be the ancient concept of varna. Which was misused as family based varnas during the period when slavery started to be followed in other parts of the world

👇🏻

👇🏻

“The unfortunate impression throughout the world (has been) that while the Hindus were grovelling in the mud of these social evils and were conservative, the Muslims in India were free from them, and as compared to the Hindus were a progressive people. That such an impression should prevail, is of course surprising to those who know the Muslim Society in India at close quarters.” Thus spake Ambedkar in “Pakistan or the Partition of India”

Dr.Ambedkar adds, “Take the caste system. Islam speaks of brotherhood. Everybody infers that Islam must be free from slavery and caste. Regarding slavery nothing needs to be said. It stands abolished now by law. But while it existed much of its support was derived from Islam. If slavery has gone, caste has remained.”

Dr.Ambedkar proceeds to quote from the Census report to show the division of Muslim society between two broad categories — Ashrāf and Ajlāf.

“Ashrāf means ‘noble’ and includes all undoubted descendants of foreigners and converts from high caste Hindus. All other Mahomedans including the occupational groups and all converts of lower ranks, are known by the contemptuous terms, ‘Ajlaf, “wretches” or “mean people”: they are also called Kamina. In some places a third class, called Arzal or ‘lowest of all’ is added. With them no other Mahomedan would associate, and they are forbidden to enter the mosque or to use the public burial ground. Within these groups there are castes with social precedence of exactly the same nature as one finds among the Hindus.”

Ziauddin Barani, the preeminent historian of the Sultanate period, approvingly cites several instances of racial discrimination against Indian Muslims in his book Tarikh-e Firoz Shahi. He relates how, Nizam ul Mulk Junaidi, one of the high courtiers of Sultan Iltutmish, was dismissed from service when it was discovered that his grandfather had been a Julaha, that is, of the weaver caste. The same book attributes these words to Sultan Balban, “I know that God has blessed me with one characteristic, and that is that I simply cannot tolerate a low-born razil occupying any respectable position, and whenever I see such people my blood begins to boil. I cannot employ the son of a low-born or incapable person in the administration of my kingdom, which has been given to me by God. I cannot grant him any service or land grant.”

In his book on statecraft, Fatawa-e Jahandari, Barani provided a better religious rationale for social hierarchy than Manu Smriti ever could. He says, “When the All-Powerful God produces some good or bad in a human being, He gives him the capacity needed to express that particular good or bad quality. This capacity is hereditary, and because goodness is given to those who adopt good professions, they have been called as of high status, free-born, pious, religious, and of superior lineage. Only such people and groups deserve posts and positions in the government of the Muslims. One should not be deceived by the low-born, for their merits are false, not genuine.”

[werindialive]

PM Modi pens a tributary article for Karpori Thakur who will be awarded Bharat Ratna

The former Chief Minister of Bihar, Karpori Thakur, will be awarded the highest civilian award in India Bharat Ratna. The announcement was made on Monday, a day before his birth anniversary.

PM Modi acknowledged the announcement made by the Centre and said, "I am delighted that the Government of India has decided to confer the Bharat Ratna on the beacon of social justice, the great Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Ji, and that too at a time when we are marking his birth centenary," he posted on X.

PM Modi also wrote a tributary article on the veteran political leader to mark his birth anniversary.

Today is the birth centenary of Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Ji, whose relentless pursuit of social justice created a positive impact in the lives of crores of people. I never had the opportunity to meet Karpoori Ji but, I heard a lot about him from Kailashpati Mishra Ji, who worked closely with him. He belonged to one of the most backward sections of society, the Nai Samaj. Overcoming numerous obstacles, he achieved a lot and worked for societal betterment.

Jan Nayak Kapoor Thakur Ji's life revolved around the twin pillars of simplicity and social justice. Till his last breath, his simple lifestyle and humble nature resonated deeply with the common people. There are numerous anecdotes that highlight his simplicity. Those who worked with him recall how he preferred to spend his own money for any personal matter including his daughter's wedding. During his tenure as Chief Minister of Bihar, a decision was taken to build a colony for political leaders but he himself did not take any land or money for the same. When he passed away in 1988, several leaders went to his village to pay tributes. When they saw the condition of his house, they were moved to tears- how can someone so towering have a house so simple!

Another anecdote of his simplicity dates back to 1977 when he just took over as CM of Bihar. The Janata Government was in power in Delhi and Patna. That time, Janata leaders had gathered in Patna to mark Loknayak JP's birthday. Among the galaxy of top leaders walked in Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur Ji, with a torn Kurta. In his own style, Chandrashekhar Ji asked people to donate some money so that Karpoori Ji could purchase a new Kurta. But, Karpoori Ji was Karpoori Ji- he accepted the money but donated it to the CM Relief Fund.

Social justice was most dear to Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Ji. His political journey was marked by monumental efforts to create a society where resources were distributed fairly, and everyone, regardless of their social standing, had access to opportunities. He wanted to address the systemic inequalities that plagued Indian society.

Such was his commitment to his ideals that despite living in an era where the Congress Party was omnipresent, he took a distinctly anti-Congress line because he was convinced very early on that the Congress had deviated from its founding principles.

His electoral career began in the early 1950s and since then, he became a force to reckon with in the legislative chambers, powerfully voicing the struggles of the working class, labourers, small farmers and youngsters. Education was a subject very close to his heart. Throughout his political career he worked to improve education facilities for the poor. He was a proponent of education in local languages so that people from small towns and villages can climb the ladder and attain success. As CM, he took many measures for the welfare of senior citizens as well.

PM Modi concluded the article by thanking Lt. Shri Karpori Thakur for his contribution. “As a person belonging to the backward classes myself, I have much to thank Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Ji for. Unfortunately, we lost Karpoori Ji at a relatively young age of 64. We lost him when we needed him the most. Yet, he lives on in the heart and minds of crores of people due to his work. He was a true Jan Nayak!”

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[idigitizellp21]

Breaking Down Mental Health Barriers in the Workplace

In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environments, addressing mental health concerns is more critical than ever. The well-being of employees is not only a matter of compassion but also a strategic advantage for companies striving for success.

Enhance workplace environment by taking few productive steps towards employee wellbeing.

1. Address The Stigma Surrounding Mental Health: Mental health stigma is a significant barrier in the workplace. It often discourages individuals from seeking help, fearing that it might negatively impact their professional reputation. According to a study by Smith et al. nearly 40% of employees hesitate to discuss their mental health issues at work due to stigma.

2. Boost Their Awareness: One effective way to tackle the stigma is through education. Unfortunately, many workplaces lack mental health education programs. These programs help employees understand mental health issues and foster a more supportive environment. Research by Johnson and Brown shows that companies with mental health education initiatives report increased employee engagement and well-being.

3. Foster Adequate Mental Health Support: A common barrier is the lack of adequate support for employees facing mental health challenges. It’s essential for companies to provide resources like counseling, employee assistance programs, and easy access to mental health professionals. A study by Anderson and Garcia found that employees who have access to such resources report improved mental health outcomes.

4. Identify Work-Related Stress and Burnout: High levels of work-related stress often lead to burnout and other mental health problems. A recent survey highlighted that 60% of employees reported experiencing symptoms of burnout due to job-related stress. This underlines the urgency for organizations to address these stressors proactively. Related read: Creating false urgency at workplace and how to overcome it.

5. Keep An Eye On Gender Disparities: Gender disparities exist in the Indian workplace, and women may face unique mental health challenges due to issues like workplace harassment and balancing work and family responsibilities.

6. Encourage Work-Life Balance: Achieving a healthy work-life balance can be challenging in India, with many employees working long hours and having limited time for relaxation and self-care.

Solutions and Best Practices:

To overcome these barriers, companies should prioritize mental health. Initiatives like flexible work arrangements, open communication, and the introduction of mental health days can be transformative leading to reduced absenteeism and increased productivity.

It’s essential for Indian employers and policymakers to recognize and address these specific challenges to create a more supportive and mentally healthy work environment. Initiatives promoting mental health awareness, accessible services, and culturally sensitive approaches are essential in overcoming these barriers.

Let’s see how this can be applied in practice

Let’s understand this better with a hypothetical case study of a company that successfully implemented good mental health practices at workplace.

Company Background: The company is a medium-sized technology company based in a bustling urban area. The company specializes in software development and has a diverse team of 200 employees. In recent years, it recognized the importance of addressing mental health issues in the workplace to ensure employee well-being and overall business success.

Challenges:

High stress levels: The tech industry is known for its high-pressure environment, which was causing stress and burnout among employees.

Stigma: Employees were hesitant to discuss their mental health concerns due to the stigma associated with it.

Limited support: The company lacked mental health support systems, such as counseling services.

Implementation of Mental Health Practices:

1. Awareness and Education: The company initiated mental health awareness campaigns. They conducted regular workshops and training sessions to educate employees about common mental health issues, signs to look out for, and how to support colleagues. This helped in breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.

2. Supportive Leadership: The company’s leadership recognized the importance of leading by example. They openly discussed their own mental health struggles, encouraging employees to seek help when needed. This created a more open and accepting atmosphere.

3. Employee Assistance Program (EAP): They introduced an Employee Assistance Program that provided confidential counseling services to employees. They partnered with mental health professionals who were available for in-person and remote counseling sessions.

4. Flexible Work Arrangements: Recognizing the need for work-life balance, the company implemented flexible work arrangements, allowing employees to adjust their work schedules as needed. This reduced stress and improved overall mental well-being.

5. Mental Health Days: The company also introduced “mental health days” as part of their leave policy. These days off were specifically meant for employees to take a break when they were feeling overwhelmed without needing to provide a specific reason.

Results and Outcomes:

Reduced Absenteeism: With these initiatives in place, they noticed a decrease in absenteeism due to mental health reasons.

Improved Employee Satisfaction: Employee satisfaction surveys showed an increase in overall job satisfaction and mental well-being.

Increased Productivity: As stress levels decreased, productivity improved, leading to better project outcomes and client satisfaction.

Key Takeaway:

The company’s commitment to prioritizing mental health created a supportive and productive work environment. By addressing the stigma, providing resources, and encouraging a healthier work-life balance, they not only improved their employees’ well-being but also positively impacted their business success. This case study showcases how a company can successfully implement mental health practices to the benefit of all involved.

Why contact ImPerfect for corporate wellness programs?

With well-designed and structured content, Professionals at ImPerfect, a mental wellbeing company delivers customized solutions which are result driven. Before a program delivery, our professional/professionals will visit the corporate office to get a pulse of the pain points in order to craft the apt corporate interventions to encouraging employee wellbeing.

– Urveez Kakalia.

[viewmypoint]

Finding The Best NGO For Education In India And Its Benefits

Introduction

Education is the cornerstone of a nation’s progress, and in a country as diverse and populous as India, it plays a pivotal role in shaping the future. Unfortunately, access to quality education is still a challenge for many. This article explores the significance of NGOs in the education sector of India, their role, and how to find the Best NGOs for Education for supporting education.

The Importance of Education in India

In India, education is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s a tool for empowerment and transformation. It can break the cycle of poverty, promote gender equality, and improve the overall quality of life. However, millions of children in India are still deprived of a quality education due to various socio-economic reasons.

What Are NGOs?

NGOs, or Non-Governmental Organizations, are non-profit entities committed to addressing societal issues. In the context of education, these organizations work to bridge the gap between the underprivileged and quality ngo education. They often work in collaboration with government agencies and other stakeholders to create a more equitable education system.

Role of NGOs in Education

Best NGOs for Education sector play a multifaceted role. They provide educational resources, support infrastructure development, and offer scholarships to financially disadvantaged students. Moreover, they advocate for policy changes that can positively impact the education system.

Benefits of Supporting Educational NGOs

Supporting educational NGOs can have a profound impact. It helps in expanding the reach of quality education, ensuring equal opportunities for all. By doing so, it not only transforms individual lives but contributes to the overall socio-economic development of the nation.

Finding the Right NGO for Education

Choosing the right NGO to support is crucial. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find the best NGO for education in India:

Key Considerations When Choosing an Educational NGO

Mission and Values: Ensure that the NGO’s mission aligns with your values and goals for supporting education.

Transparency: Look for NGOs that maintain transparency in their operations and financials.

Impact: Assess the impact of the NGO’s work on the ground. Look for measurable outcomes.

Geographic Focus: Some NGOs operate nationally, while others focus on specific regions. Choose one that matches your area of interest.

Volunteer Opportunities: Consider if you want to be actively involved in the NGO’s work.

Successful NGOs in India

Several NGOs have made a significant impact in the Indian education sector. Let’s take a closer look at one of them.Teach for India is a prominent Best NGOs for Education that envisions an equitable education system in India. They recruit and train young leaders to work in underprivileged schools, aiming to bridge the educational divide.

Measuring the Impact Of Volunteer Opportunities

It’s essential to gauge the impact of the NGO you choose to support. You can assess it through reports, testimonials, and site visits.If you’re passionate about education, many NGOs offer volunteer opportunities. You can contribute your time and skills to make a difference in the lives of underprivileged children.

Conclusion

Supporting Best NGOs for Education in India is not just a philanthropic act; it’s an investment in the nation’s future. By finding the right NGO that aligns with your values and goals, you can be a part of the transformative journey toward a more educated and empowered India.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I donate to educational NGOs in India?

You can donate to educational NGOs in India through their official websites or by getting in touch with their representatives. Many also accept contributions through online payment platforms.

2. Can I volunteer with an educational NGO while working a full-time job?

Yes, many educational NGOs offer flexible volunteer opportunities that can be pursued alongside a full-time job. You can choose roles that fit your schedule.

3. Are there tax benefits for donating to educational NGOs in India?

Yes, donations to registered educational NGOs in India are often eligible for tax benefits under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act.

4. How do NGOs measure the impact of their educational programs?

NGOs measure impact through various means, including student performance, attendance, and improvements in the quality of education. They often release annual reports detailing their achievements.

5. Can I sponsor the education of a specific child through an NGO?

Yes, many NGOs have sponsorship programs that allow you to support the education of a specific child, covering their tuition, books, and other educational expenses.

[oklahomahistory]

No-Win Situation

No-Win Situation  If the Natives’ differences with white American culture and history caused problems for them, however, so did their herculean attempts to remedy that problem by acculturating themselves to the swelling United States. Large segments of several prominent southeastern Indian tribes attempted to master the ways of European and American culture, just as early American leaders such as George Washington encouraged them to do. These five tribes—the Cherokees, Chickasaws, Choctaws, Creeks, and Seminoles-gained the sobriquet of the “Five Civilized Tribes" due to their strong acceptance of most of the key tenets. of an American civilization that, by most objective measurements, was succeeding, growing, and thriving far beyond their own. These tenets included its Christian religion, classical Western educational system, social culture, political institutions, and agrarian and other business practices. Famed Oklahoma historian Angie Debo cited the usefulness of the Five Civilized Tribes designation “to distinguish them from their wild neighbors of the plains.” Historian Arrell M. Gibson contrasted the powerful impact of one tribe’s mounting mixed-blood population-birthed of enterprising white fathers (Scots, Scots-Irish, Irish, English, French, etc.) and Indian mothers—with full bloods who retained old ways and associations: The mixed-bloods (among the tribes), more like their fathers than their mothers, came to adopt an advanced way of living. They developed vast estates, ranches, and businesses in the Cherokee Nation, and became slaveholders. The full bloods continued to live in log cabins, cultivated only a subsistence patch of food crops, raised horses, excelled in the old tribal crafts of hunting, fishing, a life close to nature, and now and then joined a war party for a raid on the encroaching American settlements. But many of those American settlers, including Georgians furious over the federal government’s failure to uphold its end of the Compact of 1802, feared that the Cherokees were growing too “civilized.” Why? The Georgians envisioned a large permanent-and sovereign-Indian enclave in the northwest corner of the state. They also worried that Cherokee roads, tolls, and ferries operating beyond the constraints of Georgian laws and regulations would hamper commerce with other states. Also, the tribal chiefs’ reluctance to improve the nation’s roads angered Georgian leaders. Plus, as earlier mentioned, the federal government had assured the state of the soon departure of the Cherokees. Unfortunately, the tribe itself had no part in that agreement, so they had no intention of fulfilling it. The Chickasaws, Choctaws, Creeks, and Seminoles faced similar indifference or hostility to their efforts at “civilizing.” Whether practicing the old ways or the new, the realization grew among the tribes that they could not win if they remained east of the Mississippi River, no matter what course they pursued. Arkansas Territory in its original form and with two sections split off to form Indian Territory. Read the entire Oklahoma story in John J. Dwyer’s The Oklahomans: The Story of Oklahoma and Its People volume 1 of a 2-part series on the 46th state and the people who make this state very special.