Indian Politicians and the Rape Culture

India is known for its patriarchal society which has often left our women speechless, but not by choice. Crimes against women in the country have been growing at an alarming rate, making Delhi the Rape Capital of India. Along with Delhi, Madhya Pradesh too is proving that there is no place for women in our country, with its highest cases of rapes in India. While most rape cases go unreported due to the threat of defamation, Indian laws regarding crimes against women have a rare effect on the guilty. And the icing on the cake are the weird, yet sexist comments by our Indian Politicians, which often make me think twice. Let's have a look at some of them!

1. Abu Azmi

Mr. Abu Azmi, also known as the former actress Ayesha Takia's father-in-law, is a Samajwadi Party leader who believes that a rape victim is equally guilty of getting raped. According to him, those women who get raped should be hanged as well, especially the ones who are married, as these women have indulged in adultery, when they get raped. And his solution for this issue is pretty simple. If a woman goes out with a guy, with or without her consent, should be hanged along with the guy. I guess he was thinking of a solution for reducing the population of our country as well!

2. Mohan Bhagwat

Mohan Bhagwat certainly lives in Bharat, not India, because according to him, rapes only happen in the urban and westernized cities, not the villages. The modern culture of the cities, when women wear 'less clothes' are the main reason for this rape culture, according to the RSS Chief. Basically, women should refrain from going out with men, other than their relatives. We should definitely show him the piece written by Annie Gowen, in the Washington Post, where she tells the horrific tale of a teenager, living in a village in Haryana, who was raped by her own father. 

3. Om Prakash Chautala

Mr. Om Prakash Chautala, the former Chief Minister of Haryana who is currently serving a prison sentence for rank corruption, had the perfect solution for crimes against women; child marriage. According to him, it is the best way to protect the women of India. Apparently, he completely forgot, or maybe ignored the fact that child marriage is a crime against women and girls as well.

These were just a few examples of the bizarre comments that our Indian politicians and leaders make when it comes to protecting the women of our country. These are the ones we vote for, thinking that maybe at least one of them would work in their right mind. However, their comments are only pointing towards one fact that women are far away from equality.

Preeti Rathi: Questioning Her Immoral Death

She stepped outside the train in Mumbai on 2^nd May, 2016, with dreams in her eyes and a smile on her face. No, she hadn’t gone to Mumbai to become a model or a Bollywood star. She knew her worth and she was much more than that. Out of the 15,000 applicants who had applied for the Government job, Preeti Rathi was one of the fortunate 500 who were selected to be appointed as a nurse at the INHS Asvini Hospital.

However, as we all know that the future is unpredictable; Preeti too couldn’t fulfil her dream, even after working hard and burning the midnight oil. Before she could get a hold of her happiness, she felt a tap on her shoulder and as soon as she turned to see who it was, an unidentified person threw sulphuric acid, not just on her , but her future as well. Her painful screams silenced everyone in shock and injured every possibility of living a normal life again. 

After a series of hearings and trials, while Preeti kept fighting for her life, it was 1^st June, 2016, when the 23 year old took her last breath due to multiple organ failure. Her only question till her death was that what was her fault? Why was she awarded such an agonising death sentence with no fault of hers at all?

After months of deep investigation and inspection, the guilty came into the limelight, Ankur Pawar. Ankur was Preeti’s neighbour who, unlike her, was considered good for nothing by his family. Also, he had proposed to her for marriage, but she had firmly refused. He had been harassing her a lot and had even threatened her to not to go to Mumbai. However, Preeti never knew that his obsession would turn him into a psychopath killer. 

Though the guilty has been sentenced to death under charges of Indian Penal Code sections 302 (murder) and 326 B (causing grievous hurt by use of acid), the question still arises that what wrong had Preeti ever done to be murdered in such a severe manner? Was it a crime to refuse to marry someone she didn’t like, or was it amiss to work hard to get a Government job? If she was turning out to be better than Ankur, was it right for him to destroy her life so that no one ever offers her a job?

Preeti Rathi is one of those innocent acid attack victims who died an immoral death, with only one question in her mind that what was her fault. Let’s leave her aside for a minute and think about every female acid attack victim, who has either survived, with a destroyed body representing her, or died a horrendous death. What was her fault?

Another important question which goes on somewhere in every woman’s mind is that if she says no to a guy proposing her, should she always live in the fear of him harming her in any possible way?

Rest in Peace, Preeti.

My Words are with You.

The Day of an Indian Woman in a Male Dominant Society

Being an Indian is not easy and being a woman in India is definitely not everyone's cup of tea! Whether you are a 16 year old teenager, curious about sex, or a 46 year old woman, tired of handling her husband's daily tantrums, every woman in India must have met a man (or more), at some point or the other, who tried to act like he owns her. Such men can be found at every nook and corner of India, whether we talk about the Metropolitan cities like New Delhi and Mumbai, or the small towns, such as Kanpur or Amritsar.

Now, before you judge me as stereotypical feminazi, I would like to declare that I have nothing against men. Being a feminist has never meant that we hate men. I have met a number of guys who are pretty respectful towards women, whether they are their sister, mother or a random stranger. However, it's unfortunate that such men are less in number and many of them still believe that we belong in the kitchen.

I can recall an instance when I was having a chat with all my female colleagues, when one of them said that she had never gone on college trips. When asked why, she told us that she came from a conservative family and it was a must for her to return back home before 6 PM during her college days. I was pretty stunned to know that as my parents had never implied such a rule on me. However, the distressing fact was that her elder brother was allowed to go out for parties, college trips and other entertaining activities.

Another disturbing fact that we all must have seen at some point or the other is that most of our elders preach about ignoring the eve-teasers instead of fighting back. This only makes them think that women are scared of them and they fearlessly keep on eve-teasing women. And has it ever mattered if she is wearing a mini-skirt or a salwar kameez?

While we are busy teaching out daughters to dress properly and avoid going out at night, we completely forgot about teaching our sons to respect women and be a gentleman. It's high time that we start teaching our sons about equality and the right to respect.

Go For High Paying Jobs without a College Degree!

When a student excels in science or maths, their parents start thinking about their future as an engineer or doctor and earning well. However, these aren’t the only jobs that can get you a well-settled career. Don’t believe me? Just have a look at some of the high-paying jobs that don’t even require a college degree.

1. Real Estate Broker

The job of a real estate broker is to be the middleman between the seller and buyer of the property. His primary objective is to help people buy, sell or rent properties. Once the deal has been finalized between the parties, he gets a commission that makes for an addition to his monthly salary. And, the best part - you don't even need a college degree for this high paying job!

Annual Salary: INR 3,60,000 approximately (as a fresher)

2. Wedding Photographer

Weddings are all about extravagance and these days’ they have become grander and more expensive, especially when people want to capture every moment of it, right from the Haldi ceremony to the reception.

So, if you like capturing the special moments and preserving them for a lifetime, then you should consider becoming a wedding photographer. Though it's not mandatory to get a degree, however, a certificate course in photography will certainly be helpful. Or you can also start by working under a wedding photographer, learn the tricks of the trade, create a portfolio and then start off as a freelancer. 

Salary Package: INR 15,000 – INR 1,00,000 approximately per day

3. Subway Operators

 

I'm sure all of us agree with the fact that Metro has become the new life lifeline of Delhi. And, one of the most important people who are working with Delhi Metro Rail Corporation is the Metro operator. They are the ones who are responsible for driving the train on time and stopping at the designated stations and making sure that we reach our destination safely and on time.

In case, the basic job description has got your worried then fret not, you will receive an on the job training before you start. And, you just have to be a 12th-grade pass out to get the job.

Annual Salary: INR 4,20,000 (approximately)

4. Modelling

As cliched as it may sound, but if you are good looking and have a good physique, then you should certainly try your hand in modelling. This glamorous career path includes photo shoots, ramp shows and even commercials. Though as a fresher, you won’t be earning much but as you gain experience and create a good reputation, your rate per show or shoot will increase. There is no annual or monthly salary for a model, as you are paid as per show or the contract; however, it is one the highest paid profession. To be a model, you need to maintain your body and skin plus a likable personality doesn't hurt either.

Salary Package: INR 50,000 per show approximately

5. Event Manager

Just planned out your parent’s 25th wedding anniversary and thinking of using these skills in a career? Well, then event management will be the right option for you.

As an event manager, you will have to responsible for the entire event - right from handling all the responsibilities related to the event, from decorations to the catering. Although it may sound daunting right now, you won't be made responsible right from the beginning. You'll be trained in the different fields.

Your best course of action would be to start working for an event management company and then opening up your own organisation when you are confident enough.

Annual Salary: INR 4,00,000 approximately

If you think a college degree is not your cup of tea, then you can always go for these given career options and make a name for yourself.

Best Yoga Poses for Thyroid Patients

Thyroid has become a common problem these days that many people are suffering from. While there are certain medicines prescribed to thyroid patients, its better if you add an hour of yoga to your treatment. There are many yoga poses that help treat thyroid patients. Let’s have a look at 5 such yoga poses for thyroid treatment.

1. Fish Pose

 

The first pose that you should do is the fish pose. It helps in relaxing your neck and shoulders and works on your parathyroid glands as well. In order to do this pose, lie down on your back with your feet together and your hands on your sides. Take your hands under your hips for support and bring your elbows closer. Now breathe in and lift your head and chest up. Lower down your head so that the top of your head touches the floor, while your weight is on your elbows. Stay in this position for as long as you can for effective results.

2. Shoulder Stand Pose

The shoulder stand pose is an important yoga pose that vitalises the thyroid gland and keeps the thyroxin in check. As your blood flows from your legs to your head, it helps in healing your thyroid. To do this pose, start by lying down on your back. Slowly lift your knees up so that your feet are above your buttocks. Support your back with your hands as you straighten your legs. Make sure that, as you straighten your back, your weight lies on your shoulders and not on your neck and head.

3. The Bow Pose

The bow pose is the perfect pose to cure your thyroid as it massages the thyroid glands and helps in producing the right amount of hormones. You can start performing this easy pose by lying on the floor on your stomach, with your arms on the sides. Now, rest your head on your chin and bend your legs to bring them over your buttocks. Next, grab your feet with your hands and stretch your body for as long as you can. Stay in this position till you are comfortable and then release your body.  Other benefits of this pose include reducing belly fat and strengthening one’s ankles.

4. The Plough Pose

The plough pose will help squeeze your neck and massage your thyroid glands. In order to do this yoga pose, lie down on the floor with your arms on the sides. Lift your legs and make a 90 degree angle. Now comes the tricky part. From the 90 degree angle sweep back your legs to make a 180 degree angle. As you’re doing this, start supporting your back with your hands and stay in that position till you are comfortable.

5. The Bridge Pose

The bridge pose is the best yoga pose to stretch your neck and, as such, is good for the thyroid glands. In order to perform this pose, lie down on the floor on your back and fold your knees with your arms on the sides. Now, lift your back till your chin touches your chest. Make sure that your thighs are parallel to each other and to the floor as well. Stay in this position for a minute or two and then release your body. Additionally, if you are suffering from back pain then this pose is going to help ease that as well.

If you too are suffering from the thyroid disorder, it’s important that you perform these 5 yoga poses to treat yourself. Initially you might not be able to perform these poses properly, but with practice you will soon ace them. Good Luck!

Go Crazy this Year at the Goa Carnival

The Goa Carnival is an age-old Christian tradition that started way back in 1510, by the Portuguese. Every year, this carnival takes place in Goa, for four days from Saturday to Tuesday.  A combination of different cultures, religions and beliefs, this fest is completely permeated with Goan charm. Let’s have a look at this much-hyped carnival which is visited by thousands of people from all over the world.

The Heartfelt Goa Carnival

The Goa Carnival is full of colours and dressed up people, full of enthusiasm and excitement. This eminent 4-day carnival is a celebration of Goa’s culture and cuisine on a large scale, which originated from the tradition of Mardi Gras. Goa, which is already a hotspot for tourists, attracts, even more, visitors during this carnival. You will find people drinking and dining in a festive mood during this event and you won’t notice the time flying away as you enjoy the street shows, dances, bands. And last but not the least; the colourful parade is what is most heartfelt at this carnival.

Activities

The popular Goa Carnival is all about entertainment, entertainment and entertainment. The fest starts on the first day with a colossal procession by King Momo. It includes talented dancers, fortune tellers, hawkers and people dressed up in costumes, bestowing the enchantment of this fest. Love is in the air as many men profess their love for their woman during this event. Apart from all the endless entertainment sessions, this event is the perfect place for all foodies who love Goan cuisine. Mouth-watering spicy seafood might make your stomach full, but your heart will certainly ask for more!

3. Goa Carnival Speciality

If you visit the Goa Carnival, you must watch the Khell, which is an extremely popular folk play in Salcete taluka, South Goa. This act will include beautiful melody of the violins, drums, cymbals and ghumats. The performance is known for its sarcastic criticism towards correcting human impracticality in a comic sense. You will certainly notice the dolkas, a rustic drum that directs the story of the play, along with the sound of the mestri that gives a kick start to the act.

4. Important Information

The Goa Carnival is like an after party for New Year which once again brings in the festive mood among the people. A day spent at this event is a day spent well. So, for all you travellers and food lovers, here is all the information you will need to spend a heavenly time at Goa!

Date: February 6^th, 2016 to February 9^th, 2016

Location: Goa

How to Reach: You can reach Goa by air from New Delhi

Where to Stay: Taj Exotica Goa, The Leela Goa, Resort Rio

Other Attractions: Baga Beach, Bats Island, Chapora Fort

Known as one of the most visited event, the Goa Carnival has certainly a lot to offer, from delicious and tempting food to never seen before entertainment. So, stop reading and start packing because it’s Goa time!

Welcome the Harvest with Pongal

Celebrated with great enthusiasm in Tamil Nadu, Pongal is a Tamil harvest festival. This is a festival where the farmers express their gratitude for the good harvest. People wish each other for peach, good luck and happiness. It is a fest time for the Tamils. And if you are thinking of celebrating Pongal in Tamil Nadu, fret not! We tell you everything about this festival!

1. History and Origin

Pongal, a 4 day festival which either starts on 13^th January or 14^th January every year, according to the Gregorian calendar. This Tamil harvest festival dates back to the Sangam Age, when this festival was celebrated as Thai Un and Thai Niradal. During this festival, the young girls prayed for prosperity and rain for a good harvest. During this time, all dairy products such as milk and cheese were avoided. It was a rule that women would bathe early in the morning and worship Goddess Katyayani. All these old traditions led to the festival of Pongal and its celebration.

2. Pongal Celebrations

It is believed that celebrating Pongal traditionally will help you prosper and will bring good fortune as well. An important festival for the agriculture community, it marks the end of the harvesting season. ‘Ponga’ means overflowing and this is why there is a custom of cooking rice in a new pot until it overflows. The first day is known as Bhogi, during which people clean up their houses, and in the evening all the unwanted things are thrown in a bonfire. The second day is known as Perum Pongal or Surya Pongal, which is considered very important. On this day the Sun God is worshipped, while the women decorate the courtyards in their homes with beautiful kolams.

The third day is known as Mattu Pongal, when people worship and thank the cows and buffaloes that are used for farming. A bull taming contest, known as Jallikattu is known sport, played by the young. The fourth and the last day is known as Kanum Pongal, people go out for picnics and spend time with family and friends. 

3. Pongal Delicacies

Pongal is not just a religious harvest festival, but also a festival of delicious dishes that you get to munch on. Pongal is one dish that is prepared at every house during this festive season. The festival of Pongal is incomplete without this sweet rice dish. Along with pongal, other dishes are prepared at home as well, such as idli, sambhar, paper dosai, boonda, pineapple rasam, rajma curry, milk payasam and bread idli. These well-known South Indian delicacies spice up the Tamil festive season.

4. Traditional Gifts for Pongal

Pongal is a festival where people gift their loved ones religious items and other things that may come to their use. Most of them go for the usual traditional gift items such as an idol or image of the Sun God, decorative items for the house, wooden handicrafts (especially if they are made by you!) and utensils. Others go for home appliances, clothes, jewellery and perfumes.

5. Important Information

Tamil Nadu is a beautiful place and with Pongal coming up, it’s going to be legendary. However, Pongal isn’t the only good thing about it! So, before you get all set to visit Tamil Nadu to celebrate Pongal, keep the following things in mind!

How to Reach: Reach Chennai by air from New Delhi

Where to Stay: Ginger Hotel, Vivanta by Taj, Savera Hotel

Major Attractions: Marina Beach, Valluvar Kottam, Thyagaraja Temple

Enjoy the 4 day festival of Pongal with the South Indians in their customs and traditions. And who knows? Maybe it turns out to be the best experience of your life!