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Subject: History

  • Kazi Nazrul Islam and his Iconic Song

    Kazi Nazrul Islam

    Central Idea

    • A movie-maker has issued an apology for the unintended distress caused by its rendition of the iconic song “Karar Oi Louho Kopat” penned by Bengali poet Kazi Nazrul Islam in 1922.

    Who was Kazi Nazrul Islam (1899-1976)?

    • Kazi Nazrul Islam was born on May 24, 1899, in Churulia, a village in the Burdwan district of West Bengal, India.
    • He was a famous poet, writer, and musician from Bengal.
    • He is well-known for his songs, which are called “Nazrulgeeti.”
    • These songs are very popular and loved by in West Bengal, Bangladesh, almost as much as Rabindrasangeet of Rabindranath Tagore.
    • Nazrul is often called the “Vidrohi Kavi (Rebel Poet)” because he wrote more than 4,000 songs, and many of them were about protesting and fighting against unfair rules and powerful rulers.
    • These songs inspired the freedom fighters of Bengal who were fighting against the British colonial rule.
    • He is celebrated as the national poet of Bangladesh and is also revered in West Bengal, India.

    Understanding “Karar Oi Louho Kopat”

    • Nazrul was an ardent supporter of India’s struggle for independence from British colonial rule. He used his poetry and writings to inspire and mobilize people against British oppression.
    • Published in 1922 in “Banglar Katha” and later included in Nazrul’s “Bhangar Gaan,” the song was penned as a call to break down the iron gates of prison, symbolizing resistance against British oppression.
    • He wrote the song of revolution after the British threw Deshbandhu Chittaranjan Das (1870-1925) in prison in 1922.

  • An under-discussed facet of colonial history

    Central idea

    The article explores the historical exploitation of indentured labor, particularly focusing on the plight of Plantation Tamils in Sri Lanka. Shashi Tharoor emphasizes the challenges, discrimination, and struggles faced by this community, calling for a post-colonial, inclusive identity and highlighting the importance of decolonization in shaping a more equitable future for nations with colonial histories.

    What is indentured labour?

    • Definition: Indentured labor is a historical practice where individuals, often from impoverished backgrounds, enter a contract (indenture) with an employer.
    • Terms: In exchange for their service, laborers receive passage, accommodation, and sometimes wages, binding them to work for a specified number of years (typically 4 to 7).
    • Purpose: Common during the 17th to 20th centuries, indentured labor served as a substitute for slavery, especially in regions where slavery had been abolished.

    Key Highlights:

    • Bicentenary Commemoration: The article discusses the recent commemoration of the bicentenary of Tamil indentured laborers’ arrival in Sri Lanka, emphasizing the historical significance of this event.
    • Impact of British Empire: Shashi Tharoor highlights the detrimental impact of the British Empire’s policies, including the exploitation of colonies, draining of resources, and the introduction of indentured labor as a form of bonded servitude.
    • Plight of Plantation Tamils: The article sheds light on the challenges faced by Plantation Tamils in Sri Lanka, detailing their exploitation, discrimination, and struggles for basic rights, identity, and integration.
    • Identity and Integration: Despite adversities, Plantation Tamils forged an identity rooted in Tamil traditions and values. The article acknowledges their journey towards integration and efforts to reclaim their heritage as equal citizens of Sri Lanka.

    Challenges faced by these labors :

    • Indentured Labor Exploitation: The article highlights the exploitative nature of indentured labor, depicting the harsh conditions, misinformation, and economic hardships faced by laborers brought to distant lands.
    • Discrimination and Statelessness: Plantation Tamils faced discrimination by colonial practices, being labeled “foreigners” and rendered stateless. Discriminatory laws, like the Citizenship Act of 1948, further marginalized them.
    • Kangani System: The detrimental role of the sub-contractor system, known as kanganies, is discussed, emphasizing the abuse of power and exploitation faced by Indian laborers even after the indenture period.
    Highly important term from prelims perspective

     

    Kangani System:

     

    Role: Kangani was like a boss who hired and supervised workers.

    Function: Managed laborers on plantations, overseeing their work.

    Abuse of Power: Kangani could be unfair, exploiting workers and causing them to be in debt.

    After Work Ended: Unlike other workers, Plantation Tamils had no escape from the kangani system even after their work time was over.

    Restrictions: Workers couldn’t ask to go home or buy land because of unclear contracts with the kangani.

    Key Phrases:

    • Licensed Looting: Describes the initial phase of the British imperial project as a form of licensed looting in service of crude capitalism.
    • Indentured Labour: Refers to the replacement of slavery with bonded servitude, termed “indentured labor,” as a consequence of the abolition of slavery.
    • New Kind of Slavery: Hugh Tinker’s characterization of indentured labor, highlighting its exploitative and degrading nature.
    • Decolonization: Stresses the importance of post-colonial countries breaking free from oppressive practices and attitudes inherited from their imperial rulers.

    Analysis: Tharoor critically analyzes the historical exploitation by the British Empire, juxtaposing the wave of liberal humanism in Europe with the continued oppression in the colonies. He underscores the challenges faced by Plantation Tamils, portraying their struggle for identity and integration as a valorous subaltern endeavor.

    Key Data/Facts:

    • Bicentenary: Marks the 200th anniversary of Tamil indentured laborers’ arrival in Sri Lanka in November 1823.
    • Citizenship Act of 1948: The legislation rendered Plantation Tamils stateless, hindering their assimilation into Sri Lankan society.
    • Economic Shift to Tea: The shift from coffee to tea plantations in Sri Lanka resulted in a massive transfer of Indian Tamils due to increased demand for labor.

    Way Forward:

    • Decolonization: Tharoor emphasizes the need for post-colonial countries like Sri Lanka to actively decolonize themselves from oppressive practices inherited from imperial rulers.
    • Inclusive Identity: The article suggests that forging an inclusive, post-colonial identity for all people in Sri Lanka should be central to the nation-building process.
    • Land Ownership: The government’s potential plan to divide plantations, making workers owners of the land they work on, is seen as a positive step, representing a potential way forward.

  • Mubarak Manzil Palace of Malerkotla Awaits Restoration

    Mubarak-Manzil-Palace

    Central Idea

    • Hidden amidst the ruins of Punjab’s Malerkotla town lies the 19th-century Mubarak Manzil Palace, a poignant symbol of the state’s indifference towards its rich heritage.
    • Beyond its architectural significance, this palace holds a deep cultural and emotional connection for both Sikhs and Muslims alike.
    • However, despite its historical value, the restoration of this magnificent structure has languished in bureaucratic inertia.

    About Mubarak Manzil Palace

    • Historical Significance: The Mubarak Manzil Palace dates back to the 19th century and stands as a testament to the region’s historical heritage.
    • Cultural Significance: Beyond architecture, the palace holds immense cultural and emotional importance for Sikhs and Muslims, serving as a shared legacy.
    • Unfulfilled Hope: Begum Munawwar-ul-Nisa, the last surviving member of Malerkotla’s royal family, passed away recently, with her desire to witness the palace’s restoration remaining unfulfilled.

    Delayed Restoration Efforts

    • Congress Government’s Approval: In 2021, the previous Congress government granted approval for the acquisition and preservation of the palace, kindling hopes for its revival.
    • Family Disputes and Financial Constraints: The palace had fallen into disrepair due to family disputes and financial limitations. Begum Nisa, after resolving the disputes, appealed to the State government to take over and restore the palace.
    • Unfulfilled Promises: Although Begum Nisa and her family entrusted 29 rooms of the palace to the government’s care, the restoration work has yet to commence. Despite expert assessments in 2022, progress has been stalled, leaving the heritage in disrepair.

    Cultural Significance

    • Guru Gobind Singh’s Blessing: Malerkotla holds a significant place in Sikh history as it was Nawab Sher Mohammed Khan who protested against the execution of Guru Gobind Singh’s younger sons, Sahibzada Zorawar Singh and Sahibzada Fateh Singh, in 1705. Guru Gobind Singh blessed the town to live in peace.
    • Sikh Reverence: Sikhs deeply respect Malerkotla’s royal family for their historical role. The restoration of the palace is considered a fitting tribute to their legacy.

  • ‘Enemy Property’ Butler Palace to turn into a tourist haven

    enemy property

    Central Idea

    • Lucknow’s iconic Butler Palace, an Enemy Property on the banks of the Gomti River, is set to undergo a remarkable transformation after decades of abandonment and obscurity.

    About Butler Palace

    • Official Residence: Butler Palace was originally commissioned in 1915 as the official residence of the Avadh Commissioner, Harcourt Butler.
    • Ownership by the Raja: It later came under the ownership of the rajas of Mahmudabad, a family with roots tracing back to the 13th century and a history of allegiance to the Mughals.
    • Partition and Dispute: After India’s partition, Raja Mohammed Amir Ahmad Khan migrated to Pakistan, while his son, Mohammad Amir Mohammad Khan, stayed in India. Legal disputes over properties, including Butler Palace, ensued.

    Genesis of Enemy Property

    • Post-War Migration: The origins of enemy property can be traced back to the aftermath of the India-Pakistan wars in 1965 and 1971, which led to the migration of people from India to Pakistan.
    • Defence of India Rules: Framed under The Defence of India Act, 1962, these rules empowered the Indian government to assume control of properties and companies owned by individuals opting for Pakistani nationality.
    • Custodian of Enemy Property: The central government vested these “enemy properties” in the Custodian of Enemy Property for India (CEPI).
    • Similar Instances: A parallel situation emerged concerning property left behind by individuals who relocated to China after the 1962 Sino-Indian war.
    • Tashkent Declaration: A pivotal development occurred with the Tashkent Declaration in 1966, where India and Pakistan agreed to discuss the return of properties and assets seized by either side during the conflicts.
    • Pakistan’s Disposition: Notably, the Government of Pakistan disposed of all such properties within its territory in 1971.

    Legal Framework for Handling Enemy Property

    • Enemy Property Act, 1968: Enacted in 1968, this legislation established the continuous vesting of enemy property in the Custodian of Enemy Property for India (CEPI) under the Home Ministry.
    • Scope of Properties: The CEPI, acting on behalf of the central government, oversees a range of enemy properties spread across multiple states. This includes both immovable and movable assets, such as shares and gold.
    • Amendment in 2017: Parliament passed The Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Bill, 2016, which introduced amendments to The Enemy Property Act, 1968, and The Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants) Act, 1971.

    Scale and Geographic Distribution

    • Vast Inventory: India currently hosts a significant inventory of 12,611 enemy properties, collectively estimated to be worth over ₹1 lakh crore.
    • Revenue Generation: The government has generated revenue exceeding ₹3,400 crore by disposing of enemy properties, predominantly involving movable assets like shares and gold.
    • Immovable Properties: Interestingly, no immovable enemy properties have been sold to date.
    • Origin Breakdown: Out of the 12,611 properties under CEPI’s purview, 12,485 were associated with Pakistani nationals, while 126 were linked to Chinese citizens.
    • Regional Distribution: Uttar Pradesh leads with the highest number of enemy properties (6,255), followed by states like West Bengal, Delhi, Goa, Maharashtra, and others. Notably, several states across India have a share of enemy properties, underscoring the broad geographical scope.

  • Geetanjali Shree writes: What Hindi purists don’t understand about Hindi

    Central idea

    Language, a magical interplay of sounds, is celebrated in Hindi as a rich connector of cultures. Challenges arise as some advocate for a rigid and exclusive form of Hindi, risking the loss of diversity and inclusivity. Balancing standardization with openness ensures Hindi remains vibrant and accessible to all.

    Who are Hindi purists?

    • Hindi purists are individuals or groups who advocate for a more traditional and conservative approach to the Hindi language.
    • They often emphasize linguistic purity, seeking to preserve Hindi in its classical form and resist the influence of foreign languages, especially Persian and Arabic.
    • Hindi purists may promote the exclusive use of Sanskrit-derived vocabulary and resist the incorporation of words from other languages.

    Key Characteristics of Hindi Purists:

    • Sanskritic Purity: Hindi purists often advocate for purging Hindi of loanwords from Persian, Arabic, and other languages, aiming to maintain a more Sanskritic purity.
    • Resistance to Linguistic Evolution: They may resist linguistic evolution and changes in grammar, vocabulary, or pronunciation, striving to uphold a more traditional and classical version of the language.
    • Opposition to English Influence: Hindi purists may express opposition to the increasing influence of English on the language, advocating for the preservation of Hindi’s unique identity.
    • Promotion of Indigenous Culture: Emphasis on promoting indigenous culture and values through language, rejecting elements perceived as foreign or detrimental to the cultural heritage of Hindi.

    Key Highlights:

    • Dhwani – The Magic of Sound: Bhartrihari’s philosophy highlights dhwani (sound) as the magical element infusing meanings into words, emphasizing the dynamic and ever-changing nature of language.
    • Eclectic Nature of Hindi: Hindi, the author’s mother tongue, is celebrated for its eclectic richness, connecting individuals to diverse cultures, philosophies, and histories.
    • Contested Position of Hindi: Modern Hindi faces contestation as questions arise about its openness to cultural influences. Anxieties stem from claims made by rashtrabhashawadis, leading to concerns among both non-Hindi and Hindi speakers.

     

    Prelims focus

     

    Bhartrihari Muni, an ancient Indian philosopher and poet.

     

    Era: Lived around the 5th century CE.

     

    Philosophy of Language: Notable for the “Vakyapadiya,” a seminal work in linguistics and philosophy of language.

     

    Poetry: Explored themes of love, detachment, and the impermanence of life through his poetic works.

     

    Significance: Revered for shaping Sanskrit literature and leaving a lasting impact on linguistic and philosophical thought in ancient India.

     

     

    Challenges:

    • Threat to Openness: Grand claims by language purists pose a threat to the inherently eclectic and open character of Hindi, causing anxieties among those who admire its diversity.
    • Language as an Expansionist Monster: Hindi speakers are doubly threatened as the language faces a negative image and attempts to be portrayed as an expansionist force.
    • Same Language Everywhere: People want Hindi to be the same for everyone, which might make all the different ways of speaking Hindi disappear.
    • Not Letting Hindi Change: Some folks don’t like Hindi changing and learning new things, which might stop it from growing and getting better.
    • Some People Feel Left Out: Making Hindi super important might make people who don’t speak it feel left out.

    Key Phrases for mains value addition:

    • Heritage of Words: Language is described as a heritage of words, with a live, ephemeral, and dynamic quality.
    • Metaphorical Significance: Hindi is metaphorically termed as both “Om” and “Earth,” symbolizing its deep-rooted significance.
    Claims Made by Rashtrabhashawadis Aim/Objective
    Language Purity Make Hindi more Sanskritic; Remove Persian and Arabic influences.
    Urdu-Hindi Separation Establish Hindi as distinct from Urdu; Project them as separate and antagonistic languages.
    Official Language Promotion Establish Hindi as the sole official language; Minimize the use of regional languages.
    Purist Language Standards Set strict standards for Hindi; Resist linguistic diversity and regional dialect influences.
    Nationalistic Language Identity Tie Hindi closely to a nationalistic identity; Position it as a symbol of a culturally pure nation.

    Constitutional Status of Hindi:

    • Official Language (Article 343):
      • The Constitution of India designates Hindi as one of the official languages of the country. It, along with English, is used for official communication at the central government level.
    • Directive for Development (Article 351):
      • Article 351 emphasizes the duty of the Union to promote the spread of the Hindi language and to develop it so that it serves as a medium of expression for all the elements of the composite culture of India.
    • Special Provisions for Hindi States (Article 345):
      • States with Hindi as their official language receive special provisions under Article 345 to regulate the use of Hindi in official matters within the state.

    Government Schemes on Hindi Language:

    • Rajbhasha Vibhag Scheme: Aimed at promoting the use of Hindi in government offices and public institutions. It includes initiatives for organizing Hindi workshops, promoting Hindi correspondence, and ensuring official documents are primarily in Hindi.
    • Hindi Teaching Programs: Schemes dedicated to enhancing Hindi education, especially in non-Hindi speaking states. This involves the development of Hindi teaching modules, training programs for Hindi teachers, and incentives for schools promoting Hindi language skills.
    • Hindi Literature Promotion Fund: A fund to support the publication, translation, and promotion of Hindi literature. This scheme encourages the dissemination of Hindi literary works globally and fosters cultural exchange.

    Analysis:

    • Historical Forces Shaping Hindi: Colonial connections and national awakening historically shaped modern Hindi, showing its openness to new influences and challenges.
    • Separation of Languages: The article traces the separation of Hindi and Urdu, once part of Hindustani, into two distinct and antagonistic languages during a historical campaign.

    Key Data:

    • Chronology of British Expansion: Hindi, as Khari Boli, embraced Bengal’s leadership as a late entrant to the modern world during British expansion in India.
    • Contributions from Other Languages: Hindi literature is enriched by individuals from languages like Urdu, Punjabi, Gujarati, and Marathi, exemplifying its cosmopolitan vision.

    Way Forward:

    • Global Collaboration: Encourage collaboration among countries to preserve language diversity. For instance, platforms like UNESCO could facilitate international agreements on language preservation, promoting the sharing of linguistic resources and knowledge.
    • Innovation-Friendly Policies: Encourage policies that foster innovation and balance the interests of diverse language speakers, promoting a competitive and sustainable linguistic ecosystem.
    • Digital Literacy: Initiatives like “Digital Language Literacy” courses, equipping individuals with the skills to navigate and comprehend the evolving nature of language in digital spaces.

    In essence, the article explores the magical essence of language, the contested position of Hindi, challenges to its openness, and advocates for a future that embraces linguistic diversity and dynamicity.

     

    Quotes for mains value addition

     

    “हिंदी हमारी पहचान, भाषा हमारी शान।” (Hindi Hamari Pehchaan, Bhasha Hamari Shaan) – “Hindi is our identity, our language is our pride.”

     

    “हिंदी भाषा का महत्व उसकी सामाजिक, सांस्कृतिक और राष्ट्रीय एकता में है।” (Hindi Bhasha ka Mahatva Uski Samajik, Sanskritik aur Rashtriya Ekta Mein Hai) – “The importance of the Hindi language lies in its social, cultural, and national unity.”

     

    “हिंदी हैं हम, वतन हैं हिन्दोस्तान हमारा।” (Hindi Hain Hum, Vatan Hai Hindostan Hamara) – “We are Hindi speakers, and our homeland is Hindostan.”

     

  • Gwalior, Kozhikode join UNESCO Creative Cities Network

    creative cities

    Central Idea

    • Gwalior and Kozhikode from India are among the 55 new cities which have joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.
    • Earlier, Srinagar was designated the creative city in the field of Crafts and Folk Arts.

    Inclusion in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network

    [A] Gwalior’s Musical Heritage

    • Category: Gwalior, located in Madhya Pradesh, earned its spot in the ‘Music’ category, showcasing its rich musical heritage.
    • Cultural Significance: Gwalior, home to the Gwalior Gharana and synonymous with musicians like Baiju Bawra and Tansen was acknowledged for being a popular destination for learning Indian classical music from musicians in the Guru-Shishya Parampara.

    [B] Kozhikode’s Literary Excellence

    • Category: Kozhikode, situated in Kerala, made its mark in the ‘Literature’ category, highlighting its literary achievements.
    • Literary Legacy: Kozhikode carried the distinction of of being home to over 500 libraries.

    About UNESCO Creative Cities Network

    Purpose To promote cooperation among cities for cultural and creative industries development
    Initiation Established by UNESCO in 2004
    Seven Categories Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts, Music, and Crafts & Folk Art
    Member Cities Over 250 cities from around the world
    Objectives Foster innovation, cultural diversity, and sustainable urban development
    Activities Collaborative projects, cultural events, and initiatives
    Selection Process Cities apply and are designated by UNESCO based on criteria related to creativity
    Network Coordination UNESCO provides coordination and support
    Impact Enhances cities’ cultural identity, economy, and international visibility
    Other Indian Cities in UCCN
    • Srinagar- Crafts and Folk Arts (2022)
    • Jaipur- Crafts and Folk Arts (2015)
    • Varanasi- Creative city of Music (2015)
    • Chennai- Creative city of Music (2017)
    • Mumbai- Film (2019)
    • Hyderabad- Gastronomy/Food (2019)

  • Kathaprasangam: An Art Form’s Century-Long Journey

    Kathaprasangam

    Central Idea

    • Kathaprasangam began as a medium to narrate stories of oppression, untouchability, and human resilience.
    • Today, it finds a place of relevance and renewal in the digital age, captivating audiences, both young and old.

    Kathaprasangam

    • Kathaprasangam is a stage art form of Kerala, which was popular in the mid-twentieth century.
    • Kathaprasangam owes its inception to Kumaranasan (1873-1924), a Malayalam poet who aimed to educate and inspire underprivileged sections of society.
    • He sought to propagate the principles of Sree Narayana Guru and his poems.
    • It started a century ago, touching on themes of oppression, untouchability, and human triumphs.
    • It uses a blend of prose and song, accompanied by a harmonium and tabla, to retell stories.
    • Young performers compete in this art form, earning marks that influence their promotions.
    • It is celebrated for its ability to communicate with urgency and directness, addressing societal issues.

    Relevance in Modern Context

    • Kathaprasangam, born out of the fight against casteism and superstitions, holds even more significance today as religious identities are asserted with violence, posing a threat to societal harmony.
    • While newer forms of entertainment have gained popularity, they still attract young audiences eager to learn and share stories using new media platforms.

  • Baba Farid and India’s Connection to Jerusalem

    baba farid

    Central Idea

    • Amidst the timeless and contentious history of Jerusalem, India’s enduring presence is manifested through the Indian Hospice—a two-story stone building nestled within the city’s ancient walls.
    • The hospice, established in the 12th century, stands as a testament to the 800-year-old connection between India and Jerusalem.

    Baba Farid’s Hospice

    • Baba Farid’s Spiritual Sojourn: Legend has it that Baba Farid, a revered Sufi saint from Punjab, embarked on a 40-day meditation at this site. His spiritual journey left an indelible mark, inspiring Indian Muslims travelling to Mecca to visit Jerusalem for prayer.
    • Transformation into a Shrine: Over time, the place evolved into a sacred shrine and a hospice, welcoming Indian travellers and pilgrims.

    Who was Baba Farid?

    • Early life: Baba Farid, born in 1173 CE near Shakarganj, near Multan (Pakistan), belonged to a family that had migrated from Kabul to Punjab.
    • Sufi Connection: He followed the Chishti Order and was among the first Sufi saints to compose verses in Punjabi.
    • Influence on Sikhism: Many of his verses are enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhs.

    Evolution of the Indian Hospice

    • Baba Farid’s Lodging: Baba Farid found a humble abode within one of Jerusalem’s gates, known as Bab-az-Zahra among Muslims and Herod’s Gate among Christians. This lodging was situated within a khanqah—a structure for Sufi orders, functioning as both seminaries and hospices.
    • A Continuously Cherished Connection: Despite changing rulers, including Christian crusaders, Mamluks, and Ottomans, the lodge maintained its association with India.

    Hospice through the Ages

    • Prominence during Ottoman Rule: The lodge remained prominent during Ottoman rule, predominantly under the leadership of sheikhs from South Asia.
    • Shift during Ottoman Dissolution: As the Ottoman Empire began to dissolve in 1919, the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, Amin Al-Husayni, took charge, initiating extensive renovations. He sought support from Muslim patrons worldwide, including Indian princely states.
    • Renovation by Khwaja Nazir Hasan Ansari: In 1921, Khwaja Nazir Hasan Ansari from Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, undertook the renovation of the lodge. It became a sanctuary for travellers and pilgrims from British India, even offering refuge to soldiers during World War II in 1939.

    Indian Hospice’s Association with Independent India

    • Post-Independence Recognition: After India gained independence, Nazir Ansari sought official recognition from the Indian embassy in Egypt, solidifying the lodge’s Indian identity.
    • Resilience through Challenges: The hospice faced challenges, including rocket strikes in 1952 and the Six-Day War in 1967.
    • Diverse Functions: Over time, the Indian Hospice expanded to host the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and the Jerusalem Health Centre.

    Diplomatic and Cultural Significance

    • Meeting Place for Dignitaries: In 2000, the hospice hosted a meeting between former Indian Foreign Minister Jaswant Singh and Palestinian leader Faisal Husseini.
    • Integral Diplomatic Destination: Every Indian diplomat or visiting dignitary includes a visit to the hospice.
    • Sheikh Mohammad Munir Ansari: Sheikh Mohammad Munir Ansari, born in Jerusalem in 1928, administers the hospice and received the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman (Overseas Indian Award) from the Government of India in 2011.

    Glimpse of India in Jerusalem

    • Ownership and Accessibility: The property is under the ownership of Waqf Board of India, accessible solely to individuals of Indian citizenship or heritage.
    • Facilities: The hospice offers guest rooms, a mosque, a library, a dining hall, and a kitchen, encouraging guests to manage their cooking and laundry.
    • Ansari Family’s Dedication: The Ansari family diligently maintains the hospice, extending hospitality and preserving a piece of India in the heart of Jerusalem.

  • NCERT panel suggests only ‘Bharat’ in Textbooks

    Central Idea

    • In 2022, the Social Science committee of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) proposed a shift from ‘India’ to ‘Bharat’ in Social Science textbooks up to Class 12.
    • This suggestion has rekindled the age-old discussion about the nation’s name, particularly after the G20 Summit’s reference to the “President of Bharat.”

    Bharat’s Historical Roots

    • Puranic Literature and Mahabharata: The name ‘Bharat,’ ‘Bharata,’ or ‘Bharatvarsha’ finds its origins in Puranic literature and the epic Mahabharata. It refers to the land between the southern sea and the northern abode of snow.
    • King Bharata: Legend has it that King Bharata, an ancient figure, was the ancestor of the Bharatas, a Rig Vedic tribe, making him the forefather of the entire subcontinent’s populace.

    India’ and ‘Hindustan’

    • Hindustan’s Origins: ‘Hindustan’ likely evolved from ‘Hindu,’ the Persian equivalent of Sanskrit’s ‘Sindhu,’ influenced by the Achaemenid Persian conquest of the Indus valley in the 6th century BCE. The suffix “stan” emerged around the 1st century CE, creating “Hindustan.”
    • Greek Influence: The Greeks transliterated ‘Hind’ as ‘Indus,’ and by Alexander the Great’s 3rd-century BC invasion, ‘India’ referred to the region beyond the Indus.
    • Mughal Era: In the 16th century, ‘Hindustan’ described the entire Indo-Gangetic plain, encompassing the Mughal emperor’s territories across South Asia.
    • British Colonial Impact: British maps in the late 18th century started using ‘India,’ while ‘Hindustan’ lost its association with the whole of South Asia, reflecting evolving perspectives and colonial influence.

    Constituent Assembly’s Decision

    • Article 1 of the Constitution: Article 1 of the Indian Constitution begins with the phrase, “India, that is, Bharat, shall be a Union of States.”
    • Debate and Perspectives: During the Constituent Assembly discussions, there were differing opinions on emphasizing ‘Bharat’ as the primary name for the country.
    • Pro-‘Bharat’ Arguments: Some argued that ‘India’ was merely an English translation of ‘Bharat,’ citing the example of the Irish Constitution, where “Eire” is used in the Irish language, with “Ireland” in English.
    • Historical and Cultural Significance: Supporters of ‘Bharat’ highlighted the civilizational and cultural connotations it carried, emphasizing the need for a name that befits India’s history and heritage.
    • Dr. BR Ambedkar’s Perspective: Ultimately, the formulation ‘India, that is, Bharat,’ was adopted. Dr. BR Ambedkar, Chairman of the Constituent Assembly’s Drafting Committee, downplayed the civilizational debates and emphasized the pressing work ahead.

    Conclusion

    • The ongoing debate surrounding ‘Bharat’ and ‘India’ reflects the complexities of identity, history, and linguistic heritage in the nation.
    • While ‘Bharat’ has deep roots in ancient Indian texts, ‘India’ carries historical and colonial significance.
    • The Constituent Assembly’s choice of ‘India, that is, Bharat,’ signifies a delicate balance between honoring heritage and embracing a forward-looking identity for the nation.

  • Bombay High Court’s ‘salaam’ to art without borders

    Central idea

    The article dive into the enduring cultural connections between India and Pakistan, transcending political divides. It focuses on the unifying role of art and sports in fostering harmony despite the historical and political tensions

    Key Challenges:

    1. Political Strain Impacting Cultural Exchanges:
    • Instances like the Shiv Sena protests against Ghulam Ali and the blanket ban on Pakistani artists post-Uri and Pulwama attacks have strained cultural exchanges.
    • Political tensions restrict the collaborative space for artists, hindering the rich cultural interactions that could bridge gaps.
    1. Polarization and Internet-Driven Disconnection:
    • While the internet enables cross-border access to cultural content, increasing polarization limits the potential for genuine collaboration.
    • Artistic and cultural connections are overshadowed by political narratives, making sustained collaboration seemingly unfeasible.

    Importance of Cultural Ties:

    • Cultural ties serve as a salve on historical wounds, connecting people beyond borders through language, music, and shared experiences.
    • The camaraderie between Indian and Pakistani cricket teams is highlighted, showcasing the positive impact of people-to-people interactions.

    Today’s Relevance:

    • In an era of increasing polarization, the internet has allowed people to appreciate and connect with art from across borders, fostering a sense of respect and awe.
    • The article underscores the importance of collaborations in Jal’s era, Fawad Khan’s popularity, and the potential for future artistic alliances.

    Positive Legal Intervention:

    • The recent Bombay High Court ruling against banning collaboration with Pakistani artists is a pivotal point.
    • The court emphasizes that art, music, and sports can rise above national boundaries, promoting peace and unity.

     

    People-to-People Ties:

    • The camaraderie between Indian and Pakistani cricket teams is cited as a heartening example of people-to-people connections.
    • Instances like joint selfies and gift exchanges among players highlight the potential for collaboration beyond political animosities.

    Way Forward:

    • Encouraging cultural diplomacy beyond governmental measures is suggested.
    • Reviving cricket diplomacy and promoting collaborative artistic endeavors are proposed as practical steps toward fostering understanding.
    • Advocate for fostering people-to-people ties through sustained cultural exchanges, recognizing the common appreciation for art, music, and sports.
    • Emphasize the potential role of citizen initiatives and non-governmental organizations in promoting cultural collaboration.

    Conclusion:

    In conclusion, the article advocates for a future where the shared appreciation of art and sports acts as a bridge, bringing India and Pakistan closer despite political strains. It envisions a space where cultural connections can thrive, contributing to harmony and unity between the two nations.