मुस्लिमांची कोंडी आणि धार्मिक प्रतिक्रिया

हिंदू-मुस्लिम संमिश्र संस्कृतीचा नाश कोणत्या कारणांनी झाला, ते सांगणारं हुमायून मुरसल यांचं 'बाबरी ते कणेरी' या पुस्तकाचं प्रकाशन आज पुण्यात होत आहे. राजकारणामुळे मुस्लिमांची कोंडी होऊन ते धार्मिकतेकडे कसे वळले, ते सांगणा‍ऱ्या प्रकरणातील हा संक्षिप्त अंश

धर्मांतरित मुस्लिम जातींना जातिव्यवस्थेत तळाकडे स्थान होते, या कारणाने मुस्लिम समाज जमीन व इतर संपत्तीवर हक्क नसलेला साधनहीन, वंचित आणि मागासलेला राहिला. स्वातंत्र्यानंतर सरकारने त्याच्या या परिस्थितीचा विचार केला नाही. योग्य कायदेशीर तरतुदी करून, योग्य धोरण आखून त्याच्या जीवनात बदल येईल असे हक्क त्याला दिले नाहीत आणि विकास योजना आखल्या नाहीत. परिणामी, तो शिक्षण, विकास आणि सत्तेच्या परिघातून हद्दपार झाला. असुरक्षिततेने त्याला घेरले. या परिस्थितीला बदलणारी, मुस्लिमांना आधार देणारी विवेकवादी सामाजिक-राजकीय चळवळ अस्तित्वात नव्हती/नाही. अशी चळवळ उभारण्याचे प्रयत्न दुर्दैवाने झाले नाहीत. उलट, कुरआन, हदिस, इस्लामिक कायदापद्धती अशा ग्रंथबद्ध संहितांवर आधारित जीवनपद्धती आणि धर्माचरणाच्या आग्रहामुळे मु‌स्लिम समाजात शतकांपासून इस्लामिक आयडेंटिटी रुजलेली आहे. या कार्यासाठी समाजात आवश्यक संस्था आणि संघटना, ग्रंथसंपदा, धार्मिक विचारवंत हाताशी आहेत. (उदा. मदरसे, मशीद, दर्गे इ; पूर्णवेळ पगारी धर्मगुरू, आयडिऑलॉजी देणारी ग्रंथसंपदा, प्रवक्ते, पायाभूत सुविधा, स्वीकारार्ह मानसिकता, सर्व काही ऐतिहासिक वारसा म्हणून सहज हाताशी उपलब्ध आहे.) याचा फायदा घेऊन मुस्लिम धुरिणांनी प्रतिक्रियास्वरूप धार्मिक आयडेंटिटी पक्की करणारी चळवळ बांधली. आधुनिक शिक्षण, आधुनिक विचारांचा जनतेला स्पर्श नव्हता. त्यामुळे कोणत्याही अडथळ्यांविना धार्मिक पुनरुज्जीवनाचे तुलनेत सोपे काम चटकन पसरले. धर्मश्रद्धेच्या (इमान) मजबुतीसाठी धार्मिक कर्मकांडाचे अनुपालन आणि या धर्मविचारांचा प्रसार करणे हेच जीवनकार्य बनवले गेले. मृत्यूनंतरचे शाश्वत जीवन इतकेच अंतिम सत्य म्हणून रुजवण्यात आले. धर्माने जीवन नियंत्रित झाले. जीवनातील दुःख आणि ऐहिक यश यांना अटळ प्राक्तन समजले जाऊ लागले. खरे तर इस्लामिक तत्त्वज्ञानात कर्मातून फलप्राप्ती आहे याकडे दुर्लक्ष झाले.

धार्मिक चळवळीत जनता मोठ्या प्रमाणात सहभागी झाली, त्यामुळे मुस्लिमांचा वावर धर्मस्थळांच्या सभोवती दिसू लागला. त्यांचे धार्मिक दिसणे आणि वागणे हिंदूंच्या नजरेत भरण्याइतपत बदलले. मुस्लिमांनी स्वीकारलेली धार्मिक आयडेंटिटी जगण्यात आलेल्या शुद्ध असुरक्षिततेच्या भावनेतून आली असली, तरी दुरून पाहणाऱ्यांना, हिंदूंना ही आयडेंटिटी राजकीय आहे असे वाटते. या आयडिंटिटीमध्ये त्यांना धर्मांधता जाणवू लागली. केवळ वेशसाम्यामुळे मुसलमान लादेन आणि अल कायदाचे भीतीदायक समर्थक आहेत असे वाटू लागले. हिंदुत्ववादी विचारांच्या संघटनांनी हा माहोल हिंदूंना डिवचण्यासाठी, धोक्याची जाणीव करून देण्यासाठी आणि त्यांचा धार्मिक आत्मसन्मान जागा करण्यासाठी वापरला. मुस्लिमांबद्दल संशयाचे वातावरण तयार करण्यासाठी, त्यांच्या देशनिष्ठेबद्दल प्रश्न निर्माण करण्यासाठी मुस्लिमांनी स्वतःच निर्माण केलेल्या दृश्य वातावरणाचा पद्धतशीरपणे वापर केला गेला. परिणामी, हिंदू-मुस्लिमांत दुरावा उत्पन्न होऊन मुस्लिमांना परकेपणाचा अनुभव येऊ लागला. परकेपणाची बोचणारी सल आणि देशप्रेमाबद्दल घेतला जाणारा संशयाचा जीवघेणा कटू अनुभव भारतात केवळ मुस्लिमांच्याच वाट्याला आला आहे. दलितांनी अनुभवलेले अस्पृश्यतेचे दुःख आणि मुस्लिमांच्या देशनिष्ठेबद्दल संशय व्यक्त होण्याने होणारी वेदना या समांतर आहेत. इतरांना याची कल्पना येणे कठीण आहे.



मुस्लिम प्रश्नाची दुसरी बाजू त्यांच्या पराभूत मानसिकतेत आहे. फाळणीनंतर न्यूनगंडातून आलेली लाचारी मुस्लिमांना अधिकाधिक परावलंबी बनवत आहे. त्यांनी स्वीकारलेला दैववाद हा आध्यात्मिक विचारापेक्षा प्राप्त प्रतिकूल परिस्थितीत मानसिक आधारासाठी स्वीकारलेला मार्ग आहे. नव्या परिस्थितीची आव्हाने पेलण्यासाठी इस्लामिक विचारांना विकसित करण्याची तयारी नाही. संपूर्ण भर इस्लामचे सोपे सिंबॉल आणि बाह्य दर्शनी अवतार स्वीकारण्यावर आणि कर्मकांडांचे अनुपालन करण्यावर आहे. इस्लाम, ड्रेस कोड आणि व्यक्तिगत नजात, आखरत (मोक्ष) प्राप्तीसाठी नमाज पठण एवढ्यापुरताच आचरणात आहे. स्वर्गप्राप्तीच्या धडपडीत इस्लामिक विचार अति व्यक्तिवादी आणि व्यक्तिमर्यादित, संकुचित बनला आहे. इस्लामचा मानवतावादी आणि व्यवस्थात्मक विचार लोप पावत आहे. धर्माने मांडलेला मानवमुक्तीचा विचार संकुचित झाला आहे.

अल्लाहने धर्मग्रंथ कुरआनचे वाचन आणि अध्ययन करण्याचा प्रत्येक व्यक्तीला अधिकार दिला आहे. अल्लाहने आपला शब्द कोणाच्या तरी हवाली केलेला नाही. मानव आणि आपल्यामध्ये मध्यस्थाचा अडसर ठेवला नाही. कुरआनचे विशेष अध्ययन केलेल्या वर्गाने मात्र अल्लाहने प्रत्येक व्यक्तीला दिलेल्या अधिकारावर अतिक्रमण केले आणि तो अधिकार आपल्याकडे खेचून घेतला. सामान्य माणसांनी अंधविश्वासाने स्वतःची बुद्धी धर्ममार्तंडांकडे गहाण ठेवण्यापर्यंत प्रगती केली. परिणामी, ज्ञानाची व्याप्ती अध्यात्मापर्यंत मर्यादित झाली. पुन्हा, आध्यात्मिक ज्ञानसुद्धा चिकित्सकपणे आणि स्वकष्टाने प्राप्त करण्याऐवजी निव्वळ ऐकीव उसनवारीवर समाधान मानले गेले. त्यामुळे खुद्द अल्लाहने प्रदान केलेला मूलभूत धर्माधिकार मुस्लिम व्यक्तीने गमावला आहे.

श्रद्धावान बनण्याचे आणि न बनण्याचे भाग्य मी निश्चित करतो, असे परमेश्वर म्हणतो. व्यवहारात प्रत्येकजण श्रद्धेनुरूप परमेश्वर निवडतो किंवा परमेश्वराला श्रद्धाळूच परमेश्वर ठरवितो असे दिसते. धार्मिक श्रद्धेतील टोकाचे मतभेद, विरोध, अंतर्विरोध अगदी प्रेषितांनाही मिटवता आले नाहीत, किंवा दस्तुरखुद्द परमेश्वरानेही मिटवले नाहीत. एकाच वेळी परस्परांचे विचार खोडणाऱ्या धर्मसुद्धा जगात एकत्र नांदतात. शेवटी, ही मानवी जगाची मर्यादा आहे, इतके आपण समजून घेऊन परस्परांच्या श्रद्धेचा आदर करणे जास्त शहाणपणाचे आणि संघर्ष आणि रक्तपात टाळण्यासाठी योग्य आहे. 'तुझा धर्म तुझ्यासोबत, माझा धर्म माझ्यासोबत आणि शेवटी सर्वांना एकाच परमेश्वराकडे जायचे आहे,' हा समन्वय कुरआनने सुचविला आहे. ह्या विचाराने मुस्लिमांचीच नव्हे तर धार्मिक विचारांचीही कोंडी फुटण्यास मदत मिळण्याची शक्यता आहे.

आमीरचे नग्नसत्य - Nude aamir Khan

आमीर जर इतका आदर्श आहे, मूल्यांची कास धरणारा आहे, इतका आमच्या त्याच्यावर विश्वास आहे, तर मग तो या एका दृश्याने अचानक इतका वाईट का ठरवला जातोय, जे त्याच्या तत्त्वांचा आत्यंतिक आदर करतात त्यांचा विश्वास इतका तकलादू कसा? आता चक्क आमीर यू टू? असं विचारणं म्हणजे अत्यंत भाबडेपणाचं आहे. आमीर कुणी संत, महात्मा किंवा युगपुरुष नाही... 

आमीर खानचं 'पीके' या चित्रपटाच न्यूड पोस्टर प्रकाशित झालं अन् सगळीकडे नुसता गहजब माजला आहे. सध्या जिकडे बघावं तिकडे आमीर खानचं न्यूड पोस्टर आणि त्याचा 'पीके' चित्रपट यांच्याच चर्चेला पेव फुटला आहे. कोणी त्याचं कौतुक करतं आहे कोणी त्याला कडाडून विरोध करतं आहे, तर कोणी त्याची खिल्ली उडवीत आहे. वा‌द निर्माण झाले आहेत. जनहित याचिका दाखल झाली, वकील नेमला गेला, आता म्हणे पोस्टरवर बंदी घातली गेली आहे. 

हे सगळं बाजारीकरण आहे आणि एकुणात काय तर आम्ही अत्यंत भाबडेपणाने त्यांच्या या डावात फसत गेलो, आणि त्यांची योजना सफल झाली. भारतीय जनमानस आमीरच्या या कृतीनं 'कोण होतास तू, काय झालास तू' असं निराश झालं आहे. पण आमीरच्या या न्यूड पोस्टरच्या निमित्ताने तितकेच महत्त्वाचे अनेक प्रश्नदेखील उपस्थित झाले आहेत. 

'पीके' फिल्मचं हे पोस्टर मुळात पोर्तुगीज गायक व्कीम बॅरिरियोसच्या अल्बमवरील कव्हरची सही सही नक्कल आहे. हे चित्र या गायकाने १९७३ मध्ये काढलं होतं. ते चित्र कॉपी केल्याचा आरोपदेखील आमीरवर आता होत आहे. आता प्रश्न पडतो तो या साऱ्याला विरोध करण्याचा. आमीर खानसारखा मूल्य-तत्त्वांची कास धरणारा आदर्श व्यक्ती न्युड पोस्टर देतो म्हणून हा हल्लाबोल. त्याने असे करायला नको होते, मग त्या ठिकाणी दुसऱ्याने असं केलं असतं तर ते आपल्याला चाललं असतं काय? म्हणजे लोकांना न्युडीटीबद्दल फार काही वाटत नाही म्हणजे ते त्यांना मान्य आहे. इतर कोणीही (नट) असं पोस्टरवर झळकलं असतं तर त्याचं फारसं काही वाटलं नसतं, मग हे दुसऱ्या कोणाचं न्युड असणंदेखील आपल्या संस्कृतीला घातक ठरलं नसतं काय, हाही प्रश्न या निमित्ताने उपस्थित होतोच. 

आमीर जर इतका आदर्श आहे, मूल्यांची कास धरणारा आहे, इतका आमच्या त्याच्यावर विश्वास आहे, तर मग तो या एका दृश्याने अचानक इतका वाईट का ठरवला जातोय, त्याला त्याने आजवर निर्माण केलेल्या स्वत:च्या या आदर्श वगैरे प्रतिमेची चिंता नाही काय? हा आमीर खान आहे म्हणजे निश्चित त्यामागे काहीतरी निराळा उद्देश आहे, कथानक काय आहे हेही न जाणता हा त्याबद्दलचा विश्वास असा एका क्षणात धुऊन कसा काय निघू शकतो? जे त्याच्या तत्त्वांचा आत्यंतिक आदर करतात त्यांचा विश्वास इतका तकलादू कसा? 

म्हणून आपण आमीरबद्दलच बोलू या. सगळ्यात महत्त्वाचे म्हणजे आमीर खान हा एक व्यावसायिक अभिनेता आहे. त्याने त्याच्या आजवरच्या चित्रपटांच्या कारकिर्दीत अनेक वेगवेगळ्या भूमिका केल्या आहेत. 'कयामत से कयामत तक'मधल्या चॉकलेट हिरोनंतर लगेच त्याने 'राख' नावाच्या चित्रपटात अँग्री मॅनची भूमिका तितक्याच समर्थपणे बजावली. त्यानंतर त्याच्या विविध भूमिकांमुळे लक्षात राहिलेले त्याचे चित्रपट म्हणजे गजनी, धूम-थ्री, तलाश, मंगल पांडे, थ्री इडीयट्स इत्यादी. अशा अनेक चित्रपटांमधून त्याने त्याचे वेगळेपण प्रेक्षकांच्या मनावर अत्यंत प्रभावीपणे ठसवले आहे. तो कधीही एका विशिष्ट इमेजमध्ये अडकलेला नाही. त्यानंतर कलावंताची सामाजिक भूमिका निभावताना तो 'सत्यमेव जयते' या कार्यक्रमातून तर प्रत्येकच संवेदनशील मनाच्या हृदयस्थानी जाऊन बसला. त्यातील प्रत्येक एपिसोडमधल्या त्याच्या अश्रू गाळण्याचीदेखील चर्चा होऊ लागली. 

आमीर आज काय तर आरोग्य मंत्र्यांना भेटला, उद्या काय तर तमक्यांना भेटला, त्याला या सगळ्याच सामाजिक प्रश्नांबद्दल किती कळकळ आहे, हे चित्र प्रसार माध्यमांच्या, सामान्यजनांच्या मनावर अक्षरश: कोरले गेले. मग आमीर काय तर पुरस्कारांच्या सोहळ्याना उपस्थित राहात नाही, त्याला असल्या गोष्टींमध्ये रस नाही, त्याला अमकी चिल्लर गोष्ट आवडत नाही...करता करता या आमीर नावाच्या एका अत्यंत कुशल अभिनेत्याची इमेज आमच्या मनात एखाद्या आदर्शवाद्यासारखी अधोरेखित झाली. 

'सत्यमेव' हीदेखील त्याची भूमिका होती आणि एक व्यवसायिक अभिनेता म्हणून त्याने त्याच्या प्रमोशनसाठी जीव ओतला. तेवढ्या काळासाठी स्वत:ची तशी प्रतिमा निर्माण करण्यात तो कमालीचा यशस्वी झाला. 'सत्यमेव' हा कार्यक्रम आमीर खानचा काही एकट्याचा कार्यक्रम नव्हता. (मुळात हा कार्यक्रमदेखील एका विदेशी कार्यक्रमाची ‌नक्कलच आहे) त्यासाठी एक रिसर्च टीम होती. या निमित्ताने तो वाहिनीच्या टीमसोबत‌ फिरला असेल, त्याने व्यथा टिपल्या असतील. 

स्वत:ची एक संवेदनशील समाजसेवी म्हणून इमेज बनवण्यासाठी तो त्या-त्या वेळी त्या-त्या व्यासपीठांवरही उपस्थित राहिला. (संदर्भ अण्णा हजारे) 'सत्यमेव'मध्येदेखील त्याने निवेदकाची एक व्यावसायिक भूमिकाच पार पाडलेली आहे. पण आम्ही मात्र त्याला आदर्शवादाच्या चौकटीत बसवीत देव मानून चक्क देव्हाऱ्यातच बसवून टाकलं. म्हणूनच त्याच्याबद्दलच्या इतक्या दिवसांच्या प्रतिमेला असे क्षणातच तडेदेखील गेले. 

आता चक्क आमीर यू टू? असं विचारणं म्हणजे अत्यंत भाबडेपणाचं आहे. मालिकेत रामाची भूमिका करणाऱ्या नटाला राम समजून पाया पडायचे आणि मग तो सिगारेट पिताना दिसला तर संस्कृती बुडाली म्हणून छाती पिटायची, असंच आहे हे. आमीर कुणी संत, महात्मा किंवा युगपुरुष नाही. विधवा आणि परितक्त्यांच्या संदर्भात 'सत्यमेव'च्या एका भागात अश्रू ढाळणाऱ्या आमीरनंही एक बायको सोडून दुसरी केली आहे. (हे त्याचं अत्यंत खासगी आयुष्य आहे आणि आम्हाला त्यात दखल देण्याची गरजही नाही.) मात्र आम्हाला थोडं हटके दिसताच त्याला देवत्व बहाल करण्याची आदीम खोड आहे. 

आता 'पीके' आणि त्याच्या त्या न्यूड (की सेमी न्यूड?) पोस्टरबद्दल...थेटच सवाल हा की एक कुणी आमीर खान नावाचा नट नग्न झाल्यावर संस्कृती धोक्यात कशी येते आणि कथित संस्कृतीरक्षकांच्या अंगावर शहारे वगैरे कसे येतात? त्यामुळे आता घराघरातील तरुण पोरं नागवी होऊन रस्त्याने धावायला लागणार आहेत काय? की समस्त स्त्रियांचा विनयभंग झाला आहे? मुळात त्या चित्रपटाचं कथानक काय आहे? त्यात हे दृश्य आवश्यक होतं का? कलात्मकदृष्ट्याही एखादी गोष्ट आवश्यक असू शकते. १५ न्यूड सीन्सच्या चित्रपटांना आजवर ऑस्कर मिळालं आहे. 'मॉन्स्टर' नावाच्या चित्रपटात चार्लीज थेरॉन नावाच्या नटीनं एका वेश्येची भूमिका केली होती. वासनाविकृत ग‌िऱ्हाईकांच्या ओबरडण्यानं सतत घायाळ असणाऱ्या तिला पुरुषांचाच किळस वाटू लागतो आणि मग ती एका तरुण स्त्रीच्या प्रेमात पडते. गिऱ्हाईकी (शी!) नसते तेव्हा ती आपल्या मैत्रिणीच्या बाहुपाशात विवस्त्र पहुडलेली असते...याला ऑस्कर देण्यात आला होता. प्रश्न 'न्युडीटी'चा नाही; त्यामागच्या भावनेचा आहे. आमीरच्या या चित्रपटात या दृश्याच्या मागचे नेमके संदर्भ काय, हे अद्याप माहिती नाही. हं हे मात्र खरे की आमरने हे पोस्टर आणून फुकटात चर्चा घडवून आणली आहे. मागे सचिन तेंडुलकरने म्हणे ठाण्यातल्या कुठल्यातरी नव्याने स्थापन झालेल्या सहकारी बँकेकडनू २० लाख रुपयांचे कर्ज घेतल्याची बातमी होती आणि ती साऱ्याच वृत्तपत्रांनी आवर्जून छापली होती. स‌चिनला खरेच २० लाख रुपयांचे कर्ज घ्यावे लागते यावर माझा तरी विश्वास नाही...जाहिराती अशाही असू शकतात. आपण का फसायचं हा सवाल 

आहे. वर्षाअखेरीस १९ डिसेंबर रोजी प्रदर्शित होणाऱ्या 'पीके'चं कथानक कॉमेडीच्या अंगानं जाणारं अत्यंत सरळ पण विचारप्रवृत्त करणारं आहे, असं कळतं. त्यात मैत्री आणि शत्रुत्व आहे, पीकेला पडणारे अनेक प्रश्न आहेत...आमीर ज्या 'पीके'ची भूमिका करतो आहे, तो त्याचा एक प्रवास आहे. ती अत्यंत 'इनोसंट' अशी व्यक्ती आहे. या 'इनोसन्सी'मध्ये तो अनेक मित्र जोडतो, शत्रूंनाही आपलंसं करतो, पण जीवनाच्या प्रत्येक अंगाकडे पाहण्याचा त्याचा स्वत:चा एक स्वतंत्र आणि हटके विचार आहे. हा विचार तो कोणावर थोपवत नाही, पण तरीही त्याच्या या वेगळ्या विचरांनी आजूबाजूचे लोक प्रभावित होतात. त्यांच्यात परिवर्तन होऊ लागतं. त्याचं हे पोस्टरवरचं न्यूड रूपदेखील असेच काही प्रश्न घेऊन समाजासमोर येणार असावं. त्याचं असं हे नागवं रूप पाहून सुरुवातीला बालीश अशा संस्कृतीरक्षकी थाटाच्या प्रतिक्रिया उमटत आहेत. 

'पीके'नं हा प्रश्न ‌विचारला असावा की न्यूडीटीबद्दल भारतीय सामजाची भूमिका काय? खरंतर चर्चा झडायच्याच असतील तर न्युडीटीवर झडायला हव्यात. आता न्युडीटी आणि त्यावरच्या चर्चा नंतर गंभीरपणे कदाचित 'पीके'च्या निमित्तानं होतीलही. न्युडीटीचे प्रकार आहेत. खासगी, सार्वजनिक, बाल, शृंगारिक आणि अगदी धार्मिकदेखील. धार्मिक न्युडिटीकडे पूज्य भावाने पाहिले जाते. त्यावर टीकाच कशाला साधी चर्चा करण्याचीही मोकळीक आपल्या समाजात नाही. तितकी दहशत तर आहेच! 'पीके' त्याच्या चित्रपटात वरवर हसविणारे पण नंतर खूप खोल असे 'दिलही मे खिचती है' थाटाचे प्रश्न विचारतो, असे कळते. 'पीके'च्या पोस्टरच्या निमित्ताने त्यानं हा प्रश्न विचारला असावा की नग्नता पचविण्याइतका तुमचा समाज प्रगल्भ झाला आहे का? 

आता राहता राहिला बाजारीकरण, बुद्धिवाद्यांची भूमिका आणि नैतिकतेचा सवाल. पंतप्रधान नरेंद्र मोदी अमेरिकेला जाणार आहेत. त्यासाठी त्यांची वस्त्रसज्जा करण्याचे कंत्राट मनीष मल्होत्रा नामक आघाडीच्या फॅशन डिझायनरला देण्यात आले आहे. का कोण जाणे मला सतत प्रश्न पडतो आहे, अस्सल भारतीय आणि राष्ट्रीय स्वयंसेवक संघाचे स्वयंसेवक म्हणून त्यांनी भारतीय वेशातच का जाऊ नये? साधेपणा आणि राष्ट्रीयता का जोपासून नये? ही बाजारशरणता नाही का? नैतिकतेच्या पातळीवर या घटनेकडे पाहिले जाऊ शकत नाही का? 

वस्त्रात लपलेली अनैतिकता आम्ही पचवितो. भीषण म्हणजे आताशा ती पूज्यही मानली जायला लागली आहे. धर्म, देश, जात, पंथ, रीत, रिवाज, परंपरा या साऱ्यांच्या चौकटी मोडून आणि वस्त्रे उतरवून अचानक तुमच्या समोर येणाऱ्या नैतिकतेचा असा भारी चटका लागतो मग. सत्य हे नग्नच असते, त्याला वस्त्रांचंही लांछन लागलेल नसतं म्हणून त्याला नग्नसत्य म्हणण्याचा प्रघात पडला असावा. 

आम्हाला; सोयीच्या भूमिका घेण्याची सवय लागलेल्यांना नग्नसत्य पचत नाही अन् मग ते त्यावर हल्ले करीत सुटतात. संस्कृती आणि समाजरक्षणाचे त्याला मुलामेही देतात. आमीरनं नग्न होऊन समाजासमोर एक प्रश्न टाकला असावा, उत्तर देण्याचं धाडस आहे का? की हे सत्यदेखील चिरडूनच टाकायचं आहे? या सगळ्या प्रकाराच्या निमित्ताने 'वस्त्रात द्रौपदीच्याही तो कृष्ण नागडा होता...'या ग्रेसांच्या ओळींचे अतिशय वेगवेगळे संदर्भ आणि अर्थही मनामध्ये रुंजी घालताहेत. 

TRS MP K Kavitha booked for sedition for saying J&K and Telangana forcefully annexed to India

Police have registered a case against TRS MP and daughter of Telangana chief minister K Chandrasekhara Rao, K Kavitha, for her alleged comments on Jammu and Kashmir and Telangana.

The case was registered two days back under Sections 124-A (sedition) and 505 (statements leading to public mischief) of IPC following directions from a local court, said a South Zone police official.

A local court had last week directed police to investigate and file a case against Kavitha, the Nizamabad MP, upon a complaint over alleged remarks attributed to her. The complaint was filed by K Karunasagar, an advocate and the convener of the BJP's city legal cell.

The complainant in the petition alleged that Kavitha, in an interview, had made observations that Jammu and Kashmir and Telangana were not part of India earlier.

The police official said legal opinion is being sought on the matter for further action.

Saying that J&K and Telangana were both forcefully annexed to India, Kavitha's remarks came at The Indian Express Idea Exchange programme. Asserting that she feels strongly about J&K, she had said India should come clean on the state. "Few parts were not ours, we should agree, we should redraw the international lines and move on," she had reportedly said.

Modi makes 2,500-kg sandalwood offering

KATHMANDU: A day after he won millions of hearts in Nepal with his speech in the country’s parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi struck a religious chord on Monday, with special prayers at Kathmandu’s historic Pashupatinath temple.

PPrime Minister Narendra Modi gifts sandalwood to the Pashupatinath temple in Kathmandhu, Nepal, on Monday.

Modi, who is on a two-day visit to the Himalayan nation, made an offering of 2,500kg of sandalwood at the flower-decked Shiva temple, thronged by lakhs of devotees. The sandalwood, procured from the Tamil Nadu state forest department, is estimated to be worth around Rs3 crore.

“He took part in a special puja, which was conducted by Ganesh Bhatta, the Indian head priest of the temple, and lasted for 35 minutes,” said Govinda Tandon, member secretary of the Pashupati Area Development Trust. Temple authorities had requested India to provide the sandalwood. Normally, about half a kilo of sandalwood paste is used daily on the Shiva Linga at the temple.

Elaborate security arrangements were in place and two Nepali Army choppers carried out an aerial survey of the area.

 Dressed in a saffron kurta and shawl, he spent one hour in the shrine conducting special prayers and visiting over a dozen other temples and monuments located inside.

“He perfor med the puja with dedication and devotion, and asked about the temple’s history during the tour of the premise,” said Tandon.

SPRUCE UP YOUR SALAD

Being healthy doesn’t have to be boring. Here are some ways to make salads that are tasty yet nutritious

Switching to salads has always been one of the easiest, most effective ways to stay healthy. “No other dish can give you such a brilliant mixture of carbohydrates, protein and good fats all in one platter,” says chef Ripudaman Handa. “It’s a great way of ingesting the necessary fibre and a plate full load of antioxidants,” adds Hetal Pandya, head nutritionist, Fortis Hospital, Mulund.

Here are some tips and tricks, along with a few recipes, which can make your mundane salad an interesting one

Tandoori And Mozzarella Salad

METHOD: Combine yoghurt, all pastes, salt and tandoori chicken INGREDIENTS: 150 gm boneless chicken breasts whole 50 gm yoghurt 10 gm each chilli, garlic and ginger pastes 15 gm tandoori chicken masala 2 tbsp tomato sauce tsp salt 250 gm mixed lettuce with rucola 50 gm cherry tomatoes 50 gm mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar 1 tbsp honey 50 gm almonds, toasted and flaked 20 gm parmesan 

HEALTH BENEFITS: This salad is a complete meal in itself. The star of the show is the mozzarella, which is loaded with B vitamins (biotin, B6, thiamine, niacin and riboflavin), which the body does not store. Plus it is a protein powerhouse, a great source of calcium and also contains fat soluble vitamins such as A, D and E, (essential for absorption of calcium). Almonds add additional protein, good fats and crunch to the dish. masala. Make diagonal slits in the chicken and rub the marinade into the pieces. Marinate for 30 mins. Grill till well browned and keep warm. Combine 1 tbsp olive oil, vinegar and honey and set aside for dressing. Toss mixed lettuce, mozzarella and cherry tomatoes with 1 tbsp olive oil and lay on salad plate. Slice grilled chicken and arrange over the greens. Drizzle the dressing. Sprinkle over with toasted almond flakes and parmesan.

Thai Green Papaya Salad (Som Tam)

INGREDIENTS: 1 small green papaya (unripe, with greenish orange to green skin) 1/2 cup roasted peanuts or cashews 2 cups bean sprouts 2 tomatoes, cut into thin wedges or long strips 3 spring onions, cut length-wise 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves left whole or chopped Handful of fresh coriander 1 red chili, sliced and with seeds removed Optional: 1 cup blanched green beans Optional: Cooked baby shrimp or cubed, fried tofu DRESSING: 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp fish sauce or soy sauce for vegetarians 3 tbsp lime juice 1/2 to 1 tbsp. honey, to taste 1/8 to 1/4 tsp chili flakes to taste METHOD: Stir all dressing ingredients together in a cup. Set aside. Peel the green papaya, scrape out the seeds and slice it in half. Using a potato peeler, create thin, ribbon-like strips. Place in a large bowl. Mix all the ingredients and pour over the dressing, tossing well to combine. Add nuts and toss again. Top with remaining basil leaves and fresh coriander. Serve immediately. HEALTH BENEFITS: This salad is loaded with vitamin C. An effective antioxidant, green papaya is also rich in papain, an enzyme that stimulates and aids digestion.
SALAD ESSENTIALS - A salad should be a balance between protein and carbohydrates; greens add good carbohydrates and give the dish volume, and protein makes it more satisfying. Try adding boiled egg, tofu or some meat to add a bite and body to the salad and plump up the nutritional value.

Look beyond just lettuce and try new greens like arugula, butter lettuce or baby spinach. 

Unusual grains like quinoa, couscous and barley add good carbs and help twist the texture too. 

Add fresh fruits like strawberry, pomegranate, mango or even dried fruits like prunes to make the flavour more interesting, and to score more antioxidants. 

Adding crunch is a must to make texture and taste more fun. Toasted peanuts, cashews, walnuts and sunflower or sesame seeds are perfect add-ons. They are great way to add some mood boosting amino acids and heart-healthy omega 3s. 

Challenge yourself by trying out new ingredients like beets, sweet potato or avocado. 

Stay away from high fat, creamy dressings and opt instead to make a light olive oil-based dressing with vinegar or lemon juice for some tang. 

Experiment with new herbs to add some extra kick to your salads.

Who gets depression?

Usually, people who are sensitive and insecure are susceptible to depression. Though circumstances affect one’s outlook, people handle situations differently. Women are more prone to being depressed than men. The reason for this is not known. Perhaps depression in women can be attributed to hormonal factors, premenstrual syndromes, menopause and low haemoglobin levels, among others.

Whatever the cause, the effects of depression can be devastating. It can reduce a person’s immunity, lower energy levels, affect family life and performance at work, cause migraines, back or body aches. It is true that whatever we think correspondingly affects some part of the human anatomy. Once the mind is affected, a lot of negativity sets in, and it takes about four to six months for that to have repercussions on the body in the form of some ailment. 

 Natural remedies

Severe forms of depression require attention from a trained therapist. What you choose to eat has a profound effect on your mental health. While incorrect eating may not be the cause of depression, correcting a deficiency can prove to be beneficial.

Eat more carbohydrates: Foods rich in carbohydrates like rice, potatoes, pasta and bread help build brain chemicals such as serotonin, which affect one’s mood and is often lacking in depressed people. Those suffering from mild depression tend to feel calmer after eating carbohydraterich food.

Increase your intake of tryptophan: This is an amino acid that is required in the production of serotonin, the ‘feel good’ neurotransmitter. Eating foods rich in tryptophan like pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and evening primrose seeds help control the blues.

St John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum): This herb helps people cope with anxiety and depression. It also helps improve sleep quality. But, it usually works if consumed for about four to five weeks. Do not consume it if you are pregnant.

Ginseng: Siberian ginseng helps improve energy levels and improves one’s sense of well-being.

B-Vitamins: These vitamins help the neurotransmitters function properly. Foods rich in B-Vitamins include wheat germ, whole grains, green vegetables, nuts and seeds.

Rosemary oil: This is an essential oil, which is a favourite among aromatherapists when it comes to treating depression. A few drops of this oil can be mixed in any vegetable oil or massage lotion.

Ginkgo Biloba: These herbs improve blood circulation.

Bread helps build chemicals that affect your mood

Modi to perform prayer at Pashupathinath temple

Prime Minister Narendra Modi would perform a half-an-hour special prayer at the 5th century Pashupatinath temple here during his two-day visit to Nepal which begins on Sunday. 

He will perform the prayer at the main temple situated on the banks of river Bagmati on the outskirts of Kathmandu on Monday by giving a bath of 'panchamrit' to Shiva Linga. 

Modi will get 'prasad' from chief priest Ganesh Bhatta, who hails from south India. There is a tradition of keeping four priests and one chief priest at the temple from among the Bramhins of south India for centuries. 

A group of 21 Bramhins will chant Rudri, a holy script, as the chief priest performs the prayer, according to Govinda Tandon, chief of the Pashupati Area Development Trust which manages the temple's affairs.

Modi will also offer prayers at Basuki temple situated in the southern side of the main temple. 

As soon as Modi arrives, 108 young Bramhin students of Vedavidyashram located near the temple, will chant Vedic hymns to welcome him. 

Dhime, traditional Newari drum and Bansuri, Nepali flute will also be played to welcome the distinguished guests. 

He will worship around two dozen idols placed in the Pashupatinath temple complex. 

On the occasion, Modi will be presented a replica of Pashupatinath Temple by its authorities. 

The temple, listed in Unesco World Heritage Sites, is one of the most significant Hindu temples of Shiva in the world. 

As per Hindu calendar, Mondays of the month of Shrawan are considered auspicious, when around 300,000 people from Nepal and India visit the temple, according to authorities. 

Last week, external affairs Sushma Swaraj visited the temple. During her visit a Rs 250-million assistance package was announced for the preservation of the temple. 

India has also offered to provide 2,500 kg of Shrikhanda (Sandalwood) worth Rs 2 crore for the temple. 

A 400-bed 'dharamshala' is also being built inside the temple premises with assistance from India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi would perform a half-an-hour special prayer at the 5th century Pashupatinath temple here during his two-day visit to Nepal which begins on Sunday.

He will perform the prayer at the main temple situated on the banks of river Bagmati on the outskirts of Kathmandu on Monday by giving a bath of ‘panchamrit’ to Shiva Linga.

Mr. Modi will get ‘prasad’ from chief priest Ganesh Bhatta, who hails from south India. There is a tradition of keeping four priests and one chief priest at the temple from among the Brahmins of south India for centuries.

A group of 21 Brahmins will chant Rudri, a holy script, as the chief priest performs the prayer, according to Govinda Tandon, chief of the Pashupati Area Development Trust which manages the temple’s affairs.

Mr. Modi will also offer prayers at Basuki temple situated in the southern side of the main temple.

As soon as Mr. Modi arrives, 108 young Brahmin students of Vedavidyashram located near the temple, will chant Vedic hymns to welcome him.

Dhime, traditional Newari drum and Bansuri, Nepali flute will also be played to welcome the distinguished guests.

He will worship around two dozen idols placed in the Pashupatinath temple complex.

On the occasion, Mr. Modi will be presented a replica of Pashupatinath Temple by its authorities.

The temple, listed in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is one of the most significant Hindu temples of Shiva in the world.

As per Hindu calendar, Mondays of the month of Shrawan are considered auspicious, when around 300,000 people from Nepal and India visit the temple, according to authorities.

Last week, External Affairs Sushma Swaraj visited the temple. During her visit a Rs 250-million assistance package was announced for the preservation of the temple.

India has also offered to provide 2,500 kg of Shrikhanda (Sandalwood) worth Rs 2 crore for the temple.

A 400-bed ‘dharamshala’ is also being built inside the temple premises with assistance from India.

DESIGN THE WAY YOU WANT TO WORK

Nothing boosts productivity at the workplace quite like a work environment that promotes wellness and creativity. Here are ten tips for a workplace that will inspire an employee's best

Environments that combine comfort function and emotional satisfaction can inspire people to do their best work as well as increase productivity, satisfaction and engagement.
Here are some ways you can bring wellbeing into the workplace.1. BLUR THE LINES
Spaces that blur the boundaries between work and home create a comfortable environment, invite people to relax and think outside the box.
2. LOOSEN UP
For people to work comfortably, feet don't always have to be on the floor. Relaxed postures can still support their productivity.
3. LET IT BE
Work can happen anywhere a few minutes here, a few hours there. With many ways to get things done, the 'right' way is to let people choose their own work destinations.
4. ALLOW FOR ALONE
Most people toggle between introverted and extroverted modes throughout their work day . Spaces that allow people to escape, ponder and disconnect, support cognitive and emotional wellbeing.
5. ENCOURAGE ESCAPES
A non-traditional, 'third place' setting gets people re-energised and optimistic about making progress, especially, if they can count on convenient access to power while they are there.
6. CREATE AN UNPLUG ZONE
A space with zero connectivity to Wifi and power will encourage people to have facetime with each other, read a book or rest their eyes.
7. BREAK NEW GROUND
Knowledge work is demanding and intense. Taking a break from the traditional workstation and leaning back into a lounge, supports comfort and productivity .
8. BE MOODY
Different work modes call for different surroundings. Some materials and colours stimulate creative thinking, others can frame the mind for contemplation and repose.
9. PUT NATURE TO WORK
Bring wellbeing to the office by providing the option for people to work outside. Fresh air and natural light are refreshing, and it's been proven that working outdoors or near natural light, improves creativity, productivity and engagement.
10. CREATE CHOICES
One person's lounge can be another person's workstation. A range of settings and support for transitions can accommodate different work styles and postures.

QUICK BYTE FOR PEOPLE TO WORK COMFORTABLY, FEET DON'T ALWAYS HAVE TO BE ON THE FLOOR.
RELAXED POSTURES CAN STILL SUPPORT THEIR PRODUCTIVITY.





MANAGING COMMITTEE HAS TO ADDRESS TERRACE ISSUES





It is the society's responsibility by law, to undertake the expenses caused by any leakage precipitated by water seepage into flats during the rains

When Kantilal Satra approached his society's secretary to resolve a water leakage problem from the terrace that had caused phenomenal loss' to his topmost-floor home, the secretary brushed it off by saying that another member had been paid Rs 10,000 last monsoon, following a general body resolution to `do the water-proofing' of the terrace and that the issue was closed. The secretary even went ahead and launched a spiteful correspondence campaign against the member who sadly wasn't even familiar with the medium of communication. Satra was left twiddling his thumbs over a matter that risked blowing out of proportion with the rains just around the corner. The onus, by law, rests solely upon the cooperative housing society's managing committee which has to resolve all leakage issues.
The rains began and fetched, with them, spoilage to Satra's flat.The society's secretary disbursed `waterproofing' fees for a neighbour, completely out of turn and place, in law. Like Kantilal's society secretary, the city's thousands continue to elbow their responsibility of tackling water leakage issues and terrace repairs that need to be dealt with urgently .

> MOVE CONSUMER COURT FOR DERELICTION OF DUTY
Simin Kapadia's case is similar. She too, has a top-floor flat at a south Mumbai residence and has had water seeping through the ceiling, right into her living room, spoiling just about everything she has by way of furnishings in her home. “I will move the consumer court for dereliction of duty ,“ says a belligerent Kapadia. The onus of performance lies squarely on the shoulders of the cooperative housing society, which tends to shrug it off as a rule. When Kapadia approached her society's managing committee, it instead reprimanded her for performing urgent repairs to her ceiling leakage `without permission from the managing committee' and instead, asked her for an apology in writing and a deposit of Rs 50,000 before she conducted any further repairs `at her own cost'.

> APPROACH REGISTRAR FOR LEGAL RESPITE...NOW
The process for them to follow, keeping in mind that thousands across the city are suffering from a similar plight, is to approach the Registrar with the issue and bring the contention of the society's managing committee before him. Preferably, produce documentary evidence of the secretary and managing committee's claims and suggestions that are aimed to absolve themselves of the onus of terrace repairs and, which as a fact, rests upon them. Under model bylaw 160 a (xvii), the onus of repairing `legal and licensed' roofs of the flat and ceiling and the plaster thereon, on the top floor on account of the leakages of the rainwater through the terrace, rests upon the society and not the individual.
Now, Kantilal Satra's society's secretary, has been attempting to pave the way for a contentious plaster job in another top-floor flat while remaining silent on a `bonafide' leakage in Kantilal's flat. This sort of ambiguous and inequitable treatment of members' issues has to be put to question in a court of law.

> CHS COMPENSATES FOR DAMAGE
It may be recalled that in a landmark decision, a consumer forum had ordered a cooperative housing society in Mumbai's Chembur to pay nearly Rs one lakh in compensation to a member. Interestingly, the compensation paid was for `the damage caused to his flat by renovation in the flat above.' By the same logic, even damage caused to `legal' structures by repairs to selective sections of the terrace can call for compensation.
The proximate relation between the damage and the act of repair will have to be ascertained by a civic body approved structural engineer. The Chembur society decision has had serious ramifications in societies across Maharashtra while heralding the way ahead, as a valid moot point for others all over the nation.
While the legal process is perceived as being long drawn and cumbersome, dissuading most cooperative housing society members from moving court to avail justice, the members, also consumers of a service provided by the cooperative housing society, can move consumer forum.
> DETAILS OF CHEMBUR'S LANDMARK CASE
In this case, the forum held the society guilty of deficiency in service because neither did it take any action against the flat owner who caused the damage nor did it make any attempt to recover costs from him. It said, “There is no doubt that since the complainant was a member of the society, he was its consumer and the society was a service provider. It is responsible to pay the complainant.“ The compensation to be paid by the erring society, Mithul Enclave Housing Society Ltd, included Rs 55,000 as repair costs and Rs 44,500 for litigation costs, mental harassment and as interest.
In the complaint filed before the Additional Mumbai Suburban District Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum, Bhimrao Jogdand said flat owner Bhalchandra Patil began extensive renovation inside his flat in 2006 resulting in leakages in his flat below. On August 24 that year, Jogdand wrote to the society about the problem. He informed Patil, too, and sought reimbursement of the repair costs. In May 2007, as is usually the case with cooperative housing societies across Mumbai, the society told Patil he was responsible for the damages and would have to compensate Jogdand. Patil did not and the society absolved itself of all responsibility. Jogdand finally sent registered notices to both in 2009, yet, got no response. He then filed a complaint. The society and Patil filed independent replies denying the allegations. Both claimed Jogdand's flat was damaged because it had been lying unused for long.
After taking into consideration photographs of the damaged flat submitted by the complainant along with copies of the correspondence, the forum accepted that the renovation had caused the damages. It also observed that despite notices, the society made no attempt to stop the work in Patil's flat and neither did it complain to civic authorities. Hence, the society was guilty of deficiency in service and would have to compensate the member for the losses suffered.
For members who suffer losses due to inaction on part of the cooperative housing society's managing committee, which chooses to look the other way each time a civic anomaly occurs and a member goes about making structural changes causing damage to others, the decision is a precedent of sorts. Jogdand's decision is a case in point when it comes to deciding similar matters. Societies adopting the `did-themandatory-correspondence' approach each time they encounter a situation like Jogdand's, will need to sit up and take note.
The society that assumes the role of a service provider will need to compensate the consumer, in this case, the member, each time there's a deficiency in service according to the Consumer Protection Act 1986. Going the Consumer Forum way is the best forward for members, who can argue their cases here without having to avail the services of a lawyer too.
(The writer is an independent legal counsel who heads a voluntary social initiative, DraftCraft Connect)

GLOSSARY

FDI
Foreign Direct Investment is direct investment into manufacturing or other industries in a country by a single company of some other nation either through buying in the intended country or by growing operations of a business existent in that country. Foreign direct investment is just the opposite to portfolio investment which can be described as a passive investment in the securities of some other country such as stocks and bonds.

REIT
Real Estate Investment Trust is a company that owns, and in a lot of cases, also produces incomeproducing real estate. REITs possess many kinds of commercial real estate, right from office and apartment buildings to warehouses, hospitals, shopping centres, hotels, etc.
Some REITs also get involved in financing real estate. The REIT structure was created to provide a real estate investment structure which is similar to the structure that mutual funds provide for investment in stocks. QUICK BYTE IN A LANDMARK DECISION, A CONSUMER FORUM HAD ORDERED A COOPERATIVE HOUSING SOCIETY IN MUMBAI'S CHEMBUR TO PAY NEARLY RS ONE LAKH IN COMPENSATION TO A MEMBER.
INTERESTINGLY, THE COMPENSATION PAID WAS FOR `THE DAMAGE CAUSED TO HIS FLAT BY RENOVATION IN THE FLAT ABOVE.' BY THE SAME LOGIC, EVEN DAMAGE CAUSED TO `LEGAL' STRUCTURES BY REPAIRS TO SELECTIVE SECTIONS OF THE TERRACE CAN CALL FOR COMPENSATION.

MONSOON MAGIC AT HOME

MONSOON MAGIC AT HOME





Relive the rain and its magic within the confines of your homes, this monsoon

While the rain showers magically transform dry earth into a beautiful bed of living green outdoors, you can create some monsoon magic at home by making some inspiring changes in your house decor.
Particularly on a day or days when you are confined indoors due to a heavy downpour, getting creative and crafty with your home ambience can bring in pleasant transformation in the energy around. Here are some ideas you may like to explore: Get The Picture: Rhea Sethi, a young aspiring designer recalls, “A couple of years ago, one rainy day, I just started going around my house taking pictures on my handycam.
Later, I looked at the pictures as if a guest would be viewing my house and the exercise opened my eyes to oddly placed furniture, too much empty space on the walls, all sorts of things that could be improved upon!“ Chappals and Shoes In A Tray! You can bid adieu to the yucky sight of wet shoes and slippers at your entrance every monsoon by making an aesthetic shoe tray near the main door. Procure a large tray. Fill it up with pretty pebbles, rocks and stones. Let it sit by your entrance.
Now, the shoes and chappals will not create and unsightly puddle, as they stand in the nice looking tray. Although, the water drains through the stones to the bottom and eventually evaporates, it is advisable to clean the tray periodically.
Jazz Up An Old Pail: Get crafty and decorate an old bucket or plastic bin using colours, odds and ends and lots of imagination. Once you are done, you will have an unique umbrella holder to place wet and dripping umbrellas in and also to adorn your doorway with.
Dress Up A Wall: The grey outdoors may well be reflecting your mood if you have just the bare wall to stare at on a rain swept day.
Here are some suggestions: Look through your kitchen cabinet. Are there some pretty decorative plates? If yes, then there is no law that prohibits you from using them as your wall embellishments! Rummage through the box or drawer where you store festive home decorations.
Become aware that some festive ornaments make nice wall adornments whenever and for however long you like.
Celebrate the rains with wreaths, torans and other artistic wall hangings.Bring out the rug, prayer mat or tapestry you have kept safely.
Experiment with displaying these on a bare wall. The intricate design, pattern and colours may liven up not just the wall but the feel of an entire room.
Unroll the large map lying in some corner of your house and fix it on the wall.
Maps make great wall accents and often aid communication.
Looking at the map guests at home are inclined to talkabout their travels or travel plans or something related to some place out there, et al.
Check out your wall art. Make adjustments where necessary. Any interior designer will tell you how hanging an artwork at a right height and in right configuration can impact the overall aesthetics of a space.
Clear The Clutter: Use the unexpected holiday to get rid of junk at home.
Add An Element Of Surprise: Discover how introducing some surprise element in the décor of a room or house shifts the energy of the space.
Place a thing in an unexpected place, like an old ladder in the living room with books, magazines or other odds and ends displayed on its steps, or arrange flowers in an old shoe etc.
Shifting a piece of furniture or fixture from one place to another can alter the look of a space and add a touch of surprise. Let your house experience the magic of your creativity this monsoon.
QUICK BYTE THE GREY OUTDOORS MAY WELL BE REFLECTING YOUR MOOD IF YOU HAVE JUST THE BARE WALL TO STARE AT ON A RAIN-SWEPT DAY. DRESS UP A BARE WALL AT HOME OR GIVE ONE A COMPLETE MAKEOVER.





Maharashtra Co-operative Societies Act, 1960

DOCUMENTS TO BECOME A JOINT-MEMBER

I am an associate member in our family's flat. I will be thankful to you if you can let me know the e procedure and documents required to become a joint-member. I have a brother and a sister. The flat is in the name of our mother.

There is no concept of a joint member under the Maharashtra Co-operative Societies Act, 1960. Under the Act, an associate member means a member who holds jointly a share of a society with others but whose name does not stand first in the share certificate. Such associate members may or may not be co-owners of the flat.

However, if you are not a co-owner and you wish to become a co-owner of the flat and your mother is willing to give a share in the flat to you, she can transfer part of the flat to you by different modes such as sale or gift. You have mentioned that the flat is 'our family's flat'. It is not clear what exactly you mean by that, however, it indicates that your brother and sister may have some claim to the flat. In such a case, your brother and sister can be confirming parties to the transfer to ensure that they do not lay claim to the share in the flat transferred to you.

CONDOMINIUM ISSUES

I am a member of a condominium society at Prabhadevi. I have lot of grievances with the MC of societ ty, such as: 1. Letters not replied.
2. AGM not held.
3. Draft minutes not prepared of any imp meeti ings.
4. Annual audited acct statements not circulated. PIC: PRITI V MISTR 5. Office staff are used as personal servan nt by members of MC I wish to take this matter to competent authority for such condominium matter rs such as registrars in co-op housing societies. I would be glad if you can guide me with contact address, email and contact number of the concerned authority.

In case of a co-operative society, the disputes are generally referred to the Registrar appointed under the Maharashtra Co-operative Societies Act, 1960 or to a Co-operative Court depending on the nature of the dispute. However, in case of a condominium, the court having jurisdiction over the area in which the condominium is located, can hear disputes relating to the condominium.
Therefore, in Mumbai, the City Civil Court would have jurisdiction with regard to such matters. Queries have been fielded by advocate Rajan R Hiranandani. Readers interested in posing legal queriees related to CHS matters should write in to mumbaitimesproperty@gmail.com. Queries should be sent on nly via e-mail and will only be answered through this column. Please allow for a few weeks, for a rep ply. For the purpose of brevity, it may be difficult to answer every query posed.
However, most pertinent ones will definitely be addressed. Kindly check the paper for the same.

Please note that given the complexity of legal issues, the facts supplied by readers through their letters are invariably tentative and incomplete. The answers given are in the nature of guidelines. Before taking any concre ete steps, readers should seek legal opinion.

What couples expect from each other at different ages



What a teenager seeks in love is not the same as the one in his forties.
A look at how the prospects of love changes at every age and stage in life

An ideal relationship often starts on the note of `Till-Death Do-Us-Apart' vows and fairy-tale weddings. However, relationships in the real world are driven more by practicalities than emotions. In fact, the dynamics between a couple change with time and gets more interesting. Let's take a look into the expectations that couples have of each other at different ages:

WHEN YOU ARE A TEENAGER
The phase of a teenager is all about a newness and discovery. Being attracted to the opposite sex is a part of that newness, but can It can also cause a lot of confusion as he or she is not just dealing with emotions, but hormones and peer pressure. And it's these factors that influence his or her expectations when they fall in love. Some of the things that they look out for in their relationship includes: Good looks form the most important part of this rela tionship, everyone wants their partner to be charming enough to flaunt.
Should have fancy add-ons like an expensive ride, latest gadgets or branded belongings to show off in front of friends and others.
Should be serious about studies, have a definite vision for the future, and yet not be geeky or boring. Should be able to entertain.
Should be courageous as well as intelligent, and be able to overcome the odds when required.
Should also have enough time for each other.

WHEN YOU ARE A YOUNG ADULT
You may have crossed the stage of puppy love, but you are still not done with exploring the world of relationship. While you at a stage when you've learned to make decisions, yet when it comes to matters of the heart, not everyone wants to settle down at this stage. So the things that a 20-some thing looks out for includes: Should have a high-flying career with larger-than-life goals.
Should be financially settled, as well as have several investments like an own house car.
Should be willing to sup port each other in their respective careers as well as assist their personal growth.
Should give enough space to each other, without being narrow minded and envious about the partner's success.
Should also stand like a rock in crisis and provide emotional sup port when needed.

WHEN YOU TURN MIDDLE-AGED
Believe it or not, love and romance is said to be best experienced by middle-aged couples. One of the reason being that most people come into their own when they turn 40 or 50, and are not governed by romantic notions. They have been through the storm, know the reality and don't depend on any one person for their happiness. So what they tend to generally seek in their partners are : Emotional strength rather than physical perfec tions; the latter is the least of their worries.
Dependability , where the partners should always be there for each other.
Attention, which translates in the relationship not getting eclipsed by the one shared with their chil dren.
Sharing and executing their retirement plans together, which includes a holiday home and fat savings Encouragement and support for one another's achievements in life -personal and professional.

WHEN YOU GROW OLD
An extension of the middle-aged, growing old does not seem to have a debilitating effect on love and romance.
On the contrary , the most satisfying relationship has been experienced by those in this age group. The quality of relationship is given more premium over factors like attraction by the older lot, who tend to seek out: Companionship and bonding with like-minded people.
It's the biggest criteria for a relationship at this age.
Selfless devotion and willingness to take care of each other.
An easy understanding with each other, without being too vocal or demonstrative about it.
Transparency in their dealing with each other, especially in matters of finance, investments, proper ties, etc.
Compatibility and less drama that beneficial to their health.

COUNSELLOR SPEAK
Marriage counsellor Sadhana Patil states that every age has its own expectations, especially when it involves a romantic relationship. “There's nothing wrong about any of these expectations. If teenagers expect their partner to be physically appealing, they have their reasons for it. It is an age when one tends to flaunt the best we have be it branded clothes or a good looking partner,“ she says.
Clinical psychologist Pratibha Rewari points out that the change in expectations takes place in a span of three-four years. “For instance, a friend of mine, who's in his early thirties, was romantically involved with a divorcee, who had a son. He was matured for his years, and believed more in giving than taking from the relationship.“





How to be a role model for your siblings





Having a younger sibling can be fun, but it is also about the responsibility of inculcating good habits in them and being someone they can follow. With a sibling around, one is usually careful about what one says or does. Invariably, the sibling tends to pick up and learn behav iours and attitudes pretty fast from the elder brother sister, who is their role model.

Here is how you can help them inculcate the right values...

Talk properly
Using slang is a big no. Use words like `Please', `Thank you', `Sorry' frequently in your daily conver sation with people at home.

Avoid fights
Try to avoid getting into a fight with a friend when you are around your younger sister or brother. You don't want herhim to pick up your ways, do you?

Spend time with them
Play games with your siblings and spend time with them. This makes them feel that they are an important part of your life and boosts their confidence.

Never shout at them
If you are trying to do your homework and shehe is bother ing you, first kindly ask herhim to stop annoying you. Or delegate some work that will keep herhim engaged. Avoid shout ing or acting irritated.

Stay in touch
Try to stay in touch with your sibling while you are away from home. Shehe will probably miss you more than your parents do.

Don't nag
Avoid being a nag. Watch over herhim, but like a close friend and not like an over-protective, helicopter parent.

YOGA FOR PREGNANT WOMEN



Staying fit and eating healthy are not the only things that top the priority list for a pregnant woman. Rather, maintaining a calm and stress-free persona and looking after her health and also the well-being of her unborn are important. And this is where yoga comes in. Dr Amrapali Patil, weight-management and yoga consultant, says, “Most women are anxious about their pregnancy -their own or their baby's well-being. Yoga tends to stabilise the mind and help gain perspective (unlike other forms of physical activity) as it is meditative in nature.

Pranayams tends to calm and balance the mind.“

Prenatal yoga classes are important, say experts.

Gynaecologist Dr Kiran Coelho states, “I advise pregnant ladies to join prenatal yoga classes to stay fit, calm and stress-free. These classes prepare the couple to handle the newborn.“ “The aim of practising yoga is to bring the newborn into the world with minimum pain and hassle. Also, it keeps your mood swings, emotions and physical worries at bay. Other than the mental wellbeing of the mom-to-be, yoga also helps them to keep their weight in check and be physically fit,“ says Dr Coelho. There are some dos and don'ts (see box) that one needs to keep in mind, suggests Dr Patil.

A pregnant woman automatically assumes a guarded posture of protectiveness towards the baby in her womb, says Dr Patil. Some also encounter increased awkwardness due to the sheer change in their size.

This leads to rigidity and stiffness of muscles, which can hamper a smooth delivery. Gynaecologist Dr Mugdha Raut says, “You can continue yoga in the first trimester, after incorporating a few modifications. There is also the belief that if you did an activity prior to pregnancy, you can continue to enjoy it throughout pregnancy, without changes. However, I think it is incorrect to ignore the hormonal, physiological and anatomical changes that happen to the pregnant body, regardless of pre-pregnancy conditioning.“

RECOMMENDED ASANAS:
Dr Patil suggests the following asanas...
Sukhasana Tadasana Ardha-vakrasana (don't overtwist here.

Turn from shoulders and chest and not e from your waist) Marjarasana Yoga mudra Gomukhasana in sukhasana Shavasana RECOMMENDED PRANAYAMS:
Anulom vilom Sitali Sitkari

BEFORE YOU BEGIN PRENATAL YOGA CLASSES...
Consult your doctor before you embark on any exercise regimen.
Make sure you go to a qualified yoga instructor who has experience in teach ing pregnant women.
KEEP IN MIND
“Women at risk are those with a past history of miscarriage, placenta previa or a weak cervix. Those who have undergone cervical cerclage and similar procedures should be extra careful,“ says Dr Patil.
DOs Set aside a fixed time.
Wear loose and comfortable clothing.
Be relaxed. Use a chair if you want.
Hold each pose only for about 10 to 40 sec onds, based on your comfort level.
Be in sync with your body. Don't let your attention wander, lest you hurt yourself.
Yoga is meditative, so being focused helps.
Do yoga twice a week for 5 to 20 minutes.
Consult your doctor immediately in case of any doubt.
DON'Ts Avoid over-stretching at all costs.
Stop immediately if there is any discomfort.
Don't lie on your abdomen.
After the first three months, don't lie on your back as doing so impedes the blood flow to the uterus and can affect your pregnancy adversely.
Avoid long duration of activity.
Don't do any asana or breathing exercise vigorously. Take time.
Easy does it.

TRIKONASANA OR THE TRIANGLE POSE
Stand straight with your feet apart. Raise your arms and then bring them parallel to the floor, keeping your palms down. Now exhale and bend from your hip (not waist). Rest your right hand, without distorting your body, on your shin or ankle or on the floor while you stretch your other arm up in a line with your shoulder. Hold this pose for around a minute or less and then inhale as you come up.
Reverse and repeat.
BENEFITS: This works the legs and also stretches the side body.
Your shoulders open up and your hips are energised too.

BADDHA KONASANA OR BUTTERFLY POSE
Sit with your legs stretched in front of you. Then bend your knees, bring your feet in and make the soles of your feet touch.
Clasp both feet with your hands and while you keep your back straight. Move your knees up and down -try touching the ground too -without moving your joined feet. It should resemble the movement of butterfly wings.
BENEFITS: Stretches the inner things and hips and increases mobility of the hip joints.

SITTING SIDE STRETCH
Sit with your legs stretched in front of you. As you exhale, slowly spread out your legs. Then, fold your right leg and bring your heel towards your crotch. Let your left leg remain straight, with the toes pointing to the ceiling. Stretch your right hand towards the ceiling and bend sideways. Your left elbow should be near your left knee, palms facing upwards.
BENEFITS: This asana opens up your side waist, pelvis and also stretches the hips.

WARRIOR POSE OR VEERABHADRASANA
Keep a distance of two to three feet between your legs as you stand straight. Turn your left foot by 90 degrees and align the heels of both feet. Lift both your arms together and bring them parallel to the floor. Now exhale as you bend your right knee and look to your right. Your ankle and knee must be in a straight line. Stretch your arms, push down your pelvis gently. Keep breathing as you go lower. Inhale when you come up and exhale as you bring your hands to your sides. Reverse and repeat. This asana should be practised with support -stand close to the wall.
BENEFITS: Ladies in their second and third trimester will find this asana beneficial. This strengthens your limbs, improves balance, increases stami na and releases stress. Your lower back will also benefit.

BENEFITS OF PRENATAL YOGA 
Yoga stabilises emotions.
It facilitates blood circulation for both mother and the baby.
Yoga boosts the functioning of relaxin (a hormone that relaxes the muscles and joints) and makes the muscles, supple, strong and flexible, says Dr Patil.
It improves sleep, reduces stress and anxiety.
It leads to a marked increase in muscle strength and flexibility and so, helps in birthing.
Regular yoga decreases the risk of pre term labour.
In the postnatal period, yoga strength ens the pelvic floor just like Kegel's exercises. This prevents prolapse of pelvic organs, especially that of the uterus.